Tag Archive for: Cruise Agency Portage

Embark on the Ultimate Journey: World Cruise

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? I’m excited to share with you the thrill of world cruises. Imagine exploring multiple destinations, immersing yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoying unparalleled luxury onboard.

What is a World Cruise?

A world cruise is an extended voyage that typically lasts 30 to 100+ days and covers thousands of miles and multiple continents. These journeys offer a unique opportunity to visit numerous ports, relax onboard, and enjoy exceptional amenities.

Benefits of Booking a World Cruise

Booking a world cruise offers many advantages, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Some of the benefits include:

  • Unpack once, explore multiple destinations: One of the most significant advantages of a world cruise is the convenience of unpacking only once. Imagine not having to worry about constant packing and unpacking and, instead, having the freedom to relax and enjoy your journey.
  • Immerse yourself in diverse cultures: World cruises offer a unique opportunity to experience the richness of various countries and regions. From the vibrant cities of Asia to the historic ports of Europe, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, try new foods, and learn about local customs.
  • Luxuriate onboard: Modern cruise ships are designed to provide ultimate comfort and luxury. Enjoy fine dining, entertainment options, and top-notch amenities like spas, pools, and fitness centers. You’ll feel like you’re staying in a 5-star resort but with the added benefit of waking up in a new destination each day.
  • Meet like-minded travelers: World cruises attract diverse travelers, all united by a sense of adventure and a desire to explore the world. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and share experiences with like-minded individuals.
  • Relaxation and rejuvenation: With multiple sea days and relaxing onboard amenities, world cruises offer the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge. Take advantage of spa treatments and yoga classes, or simply lounge by the pool and enjoy the ocean views.
  • Value for money: When you consider the cost of flights, hotels, and transportation for a multi-destination trip, world cruises often offer exceptional value for money. Plus, with meals, accommodations, and activities all included, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free and budget-friendly travel experience.
  • Once-in-a-lifetime experience: World cruises often feature unique and exclusive experiences, such as overnight stays in port, special events, and access to remote destinations. You’ll have the chance to create lifelong memories and experience things you never thought possible.

If sailing around the world seems too much, many cruise lines offer partial voyages where you can meet part-way through the voyage for a shorter time.

Are you ready to Set Sail? Don’t miss this chance to embark on the ultimate journey. Contact me today to book your world cruise and experience the adventure of a lifetime!

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10 Luxury Cruise Trends to Look Forward to in 2025

As we look to the future of luxury cruising, exciting trends are emerging that will elevate your travel experience to new heights. From extended voyages to sustainable luxury, and from ultra-luxury amenities to wellness at sea, here are the top 10 luxury cruise trends to look forward to in 2025.

  1. Extended Voyages: Savoring the Luxury of Time – Indulge in the luxury of time with extended cruises offering more immersive experiences and overnight stays in coveted ports. Enjoy in-depth exploration, relaxed pacing, and increased opportunities for enrichment programs and shore excursions.
  2. Sustainable Luxury: Eco-Friendly Opulence – Experience the perfect blend of eco-friendliness and opulence as luxury cruise lines pioneer cutting-edge sustainability initiatives. Eco-friendly ship design, renewable energy sources, and sustainable tourism practices will redefine the luxury cruise experience.
  3. European Odyssey: Uncovering Hidden Gems – Uncover the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Europe with tailored itineraries and exclusive experiences. Enjoy private tours, immersive cultural encounters, and gourmet dining.
  4. Ultra-Luxury Amenities: The Epitome of Fine Living – Treat yourself to the finest amenities, from gourmet dining to personalized butler services, and lavish suites. Michelin-starred chefs, 24/7 personalized butler services, and luxurious suites with private balconies await.
  5. Curated Experiences: Unique Encounters – Enjoy unique encounters with celebrated experts, artists, and performers, carefully curated to enrich your journey. Private concerts, expert-led workshops, and exclusive access to cultural events will leave you in awe.
  6. All-Inclusive Luxury: Seamless Indulgence – Delight in seamless, all-inclusive packages, complete with shore credits, fine dining, and premium amenities. Complimentary services and activities will make your journey truly unforgettable.
  7. Intimate Expeditions: Exploring Remote Destinations – Explore remote destinations in style, aboard smaller, luxury vessels offering personalized service and tailored experiences. Access secluded ports, hidden gems, and immersive destination experiences.
  8. Solo Luxury Travel: Tailored Experiences – Discover tailored experiences and exclusive amenities designed specifically for discerning solo travelers. Solo-friendly shore excursions, private dining, and dedicated solo traveler programs await.
  9. Technological Innovation: Staying Connected – Stay connected and indulge with cutting-edge technology featuring AI-powered personalized services, virtual reality experiences, and high-speed internet.
  10. Wellness at Sea: Rejuvenation and Balance – Rejuvenate body and mind with comprehensive wellness programs, spa services, and healthy dining options. Holistic wellness programs, spa treatments, and healthy dining will promote serenity and balance.

Embark on a journey of luxury and discovery in 2025, where every detail is meticulously crafted to exceed your expectations. Which trend are you most excited about?

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How Far in Advance Should you Plan a Vacation?

Whether you’re daydreaming about strolling through European streets, taking in the historic landmarks and vibrant culture, or relaxing in the Caribbean, soaking up the sun and crystal-clear waters, the big question always lingers: “How far in advance should I plan?” For many of us, the excitement of planning a trip can be just as thrilling as the journey itself, but knowing when to start making arrangements can be a daunting task. Should you book your flights and accommodations a year in advance, or can you get away with making last-minute plans? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including your destination, travel style, and flexibility. In this post, we’ll break down the key considerations to help you determine the perfect planning timeline for your next adventure.

Cruises 

Cruises for both oceans and rivers typically release their itineraries 18-24 months in advance. While it’s not always essential to book this early, if you’re aiming to travel during busy periods like Christmas or Spring Break, it’s advisable to book as early as possible. For other times, we recommend booking 6-12 months in advance. Doing so allows you to select your preferred cabin, take advantage of early booking discounts, and choose the perfect itinerary. If you book with us, this timeframe also ensures that we have enough time to arrange unique cultural experiences, secure preferred dining times, and fully prepare for your trip.

Europe

To fully enjoy the historic landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine of Europe without feeling rushed or stressed, we recommend planning your trip 9-12 months in advance. This will give you the best chance to find great deals on flights and accommodations and secure reservations for popular attractions. If you’re booking with us, this timeframe allows us to carefully plan your itinerary and coordinate with our trusted partners to ensure everything is ready for your arrival.

All-Inclusive Resorts 

For a stress-free all-inclusive vacation, we highly advise planning 3-9 months prior to your intended travel dates, and even earlier for peak seasons like Christmas and Spring Break. This proactive approach gives you the best chance to find the most suitable accommodations at the best resorts, and so much more. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to secure the most desirable room categories and amenities, take advantage of early-bird discounts and promotions, and ensure the availability of popular activities and excursions. Planning ahead also allows you to make informed decisions about travel insurance and other essentials, avoid last-minute rushes and potential price increases, and enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable planning experience.

Domestic Vacations 

We don’t book all domestic locations, but we specialize in planning trips to stunning national parks, the beautiful beaches of the Hawaiian islands, and one of my favorite places on earth – Alaska! We recommend planning these types of trips 3-6 months in advance. This gives us the opportunity to book flights at reasonable prices, secure accommodations in popular destinations, and plan any necessary excursions. If you’re booking with us, this also gives us enough time to craft the perfect itinerary enriched with hidden gems and expert insights.

Keep in mind that these timeframes are just a starting point, as every traveler’s preferences and flexibility are one-of-a-kind. That’s why we specialize in curating customized journeys that cater to your distinct style and needs. We’re thrilled to help you plan your ideal getaway, and we look forward to tailoring every detail to make your travel dreams a reality! To get started, click HERE.

 

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Featured Destination: Athens, Greece

We still recount the culture, marvel at the buildings, and read the stories that originated in ancient Greece. At the heart of many of these famous elements is Athens, Greece’s capital city. Today, Athens, is much more than ruins and history; it’s a thriving destination that seamlessly blends modernity with tradition in ways that continues to captivate travelers. 

 

CELEBRATING THE PAST

For many, the allure of Athens is in its rich history. Perhaps no symbol of the city is as prominent as the Acropolis. This rocky hill rising in the city’s center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to several ancient buildings, including the famous Parthenon. The Parthenon’s precise construction remains a feat of engineering even today and ongoing restorations continue to preserve its legacy for future visitors.

Visitors to the Acropolis can walk amongst the ruins, but they should also visit the neighboring Acropolis Museum. This modern museum opened in 2009 and displays many artifacts from the site. The entire top floor is dedicated to the Parthenon and the sculptures are positioned to replicate their original placement on the structure. Excavations during the construction of this new museum revealed ancient walls and artifacts, which are now on view in the museum’s entrance.

The intricate details of the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus, the Ancient Agora of Athens, and Hadrian’s Arch will inspire the imaginations of both history buffs and architecture lovers. They can take in the detail and skill of Greek culture’s early bronze works and mosaics at the National Archaeological Museum. The marble-laden Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted the first modern Olympic games in 1896, can also be found in the heart of the city.

 

NATURAL BEAUTY

Athens in a sprawling city that rests in the shadow of hills and covers a valley as it sweeps down to the Aegean Sea. Though the Acropolis is central and the most famous, Lycabettus Hill is taller and is the best spot for a panoramic view of Athens. Those up for a climb can take the stairs carved into the hillside to reach the top, while many opt to ride the cable car.

Visitors can explore Saint George’s church after a long climb or a short ride. Built in 1870, this small church is known for its white-washed exterior that contrasts with the richly colored murals inside. After a stroll around the church, visitors can sit back and enjoy the view at the hilltop’s restaurant, which serves traditional Greek dishes that vary by season. The view only gets better as the sun sets and the city lights appear. The cable car operates until midnight, meaning visitors can take in the city at night without fear of climbing back down in the dark.

From the hilltop, visitors can likely spot the National Gardens. These 38 sprawling acres bring lush greenery to one of the city’s busiest areas. Nestled between the Greek Parliament and the Panathenaic Stadium, the National Gardens offer an idyllic way to escape to nature’s beauty. Visitors can stroll the notoriously winding paths and visit the small zoo, playground, duck pond, and Botanical Museum.

 

CUISINE

Trying fresh olive oil in Greece is a must, with many restaurants serve it for dipping with bread. Gyro shops are around every corner and make the perfect on-the-go pitas for lunch, and visitors may be (pleasantly) surprised to find that along with typical gyro fillings, most Athens gyros also include French fries!

Many traditional Greek dishes rely on filo pastry, from savory spanakopita to delicate baklava. Be on the lookout for tiropites, which are filo dough filled with a mixture of Greek cheeses and feta me meli, or feta wrapped in dough and drizzled with honey.

Hundreds of eateries around Athens offer tasty dishes to try. The neighborhood of Plaka around Monastiraki Square and Syntagma Square is vibrant and open late into the evenings. Look for restaurants that offer rooftop or open-air dining with a view of the nearby Acropolis.

HOW TO GET TO ATHENS

Athens is home to an international airport that is connected to the city via the suburban railway, the Metro Line, and several bus routes. Taxis and cars are also available to take travelers on a 30 to 40-minute drive into the city.

Many popular cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises, also offer cruises with stops in Athens.

Let’s plan your trip to Athens today! 

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A Look Back at the History of Cruising

Even before the invention of the airplane, travelers longed to see the world. Cruising has captured the hearts of vacationers for over 100 years. In fact, several cruise lines, like Cunard, launched in the 1800s. From the beginning, exciting innovations, thrilling journeys, and good times have defined cruising.

1844 — P&O Introduces Leisure Excursions

  • As a precursor to modern cruises, P&O Cruise Line began sailing small ships around the Mediterranean purely for the pleasure of sailing and seeing the sights. This was the first step in changing the sailing industry from its focus on mail and cargo to one about carrying passengers for travel and pleasure.
View From A Cruise Ship Balcony At Sunset

 

1900 — Prinzessin Victoria Luise is built in Germany

  • This was the first ship to be exclusively built for luxury cruising rather than for cargo transport, marking the beginning of cruising as we know it today.

1922 — The first world cruise set sail.

  • The Laconia of the British Cunard Line set sail on the first world cruise. This voyage lasted six months and took guests to the most popular and far-off destinations in the world.

1950 — Cunard held an all-American celebrity cruise.

  • Cruising was popular among the world’s biggest stars and was a social event complete with drinks, dancing music, and more. On one voyage, Cunard hosted special guests that included Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Elizabeth Taylor, Walt Disney, and Rita Hayworth.

 

Mariner Of The Seas Royal Caribbean 2019

 

1960s and 1970s — Modern cruise lines are founded.

  • Though some cruise lines can trace their history back to 1800s, many of today’s modern cruise lines were founded in the 1960s and 1970s. Princess Cruises launched in 1965, Norwegian Cruise Line in 1966, and Royal Caribbean in 1968. Carnival Cruise Line followed soon after, launching in 1972.

1977 — The Love Boat premieres.

  • Set on a Princess Cruises ship, this television show tells the story of Captain Merrill Stubing, his crew, and passengers, often played by guest stars. The show frequently featured the Pacific cruise ports of Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco. Many credit The Love Boat for the rise in popularity of cruising.

 

1990s & 2000s — Bigger and Better

  • Ships grew bigger and got better. Cruise lines worked to incorporate unique onboard activities, exclusive shows, more dining options, and kid-friendly fun! These advancements paved the way for the technology-packed, incredible cruising experiences!

Cruise lines’ plans for ships in 2024 and beyond will usher a new chapter in cruising history. From even more mega-ships to ultra-luxury sailing ships and expedition cruising, it’s amazing to see how far we’ve come and the options now available. Let’s start planning your next cruise today! 

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Royal Caribbean 2025-2026 Sailings

Cruising in the Caribbean is a favorite for many due to its sunny destinations, diverse cultures, and clear blue waters. The Eastern Caribbean features islands like St. Thomas and St. Maarten, known for their beautiful beaches and history. In the Western Caribbean, you’ll find a mix of landscapes, from the rainforests of Belize to the markets of Cozumel. The Southern Caribbean offers a more secluded experience with gems like Aruba and Curacao, known for their colorful architecture and rich history.

Caribbean cruises make it easy to explore these diverse regions without the hassle of multiple flights, promising new adventures each day, from snorkeling to exploring ancient ruins and enjoying local cuisine. The onboard experience adds to the appeal, with premium amenities, top-notch dining, and entertainment that reflects the lively spirit of the islands. It’s an ideal escape for those looking for relaxation, adventure, or a taste of local culture.

I love selling and sailing with Royal Caribbean. They boast a fleet of innovative ships equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and entertainment. Expect well-appointed cabins, diverse dining options, entertainment for all ages, and activities ranging from rock climbing to Broadway-style shows. From the groundbreaking Oasis-class ships to the modern and feature-rich Quantum-class vessels, there’s always something new and exciting to explore onboard. For those seeking a longer and more adventurous journey, Royal Caribbean offers a 16-day transatlantic cruise, providing a unique opportunity to cross the Atlantic Ocean and explore different ports along the way.

Royal Caribbean plans to sail seven ships for the 2025-2026 season. They will depart from various ports in Florida as well as Galveston, Texas. Cruise itineraries include the Southern, Western, and Eastern Caribbean, along with the Bahamas and Perfect Day at Coco Cay. The duration of cruises range from 2 to 16 nights. 

Below is a chart listing each ship, its departure port, the first date of its itinerary in 2025, the number of days for various voyages, and the itineraries for each.

Ship Departure Port First Sail Date in 2025 Duration Options (# of Nights) Itinerary
Rhapsody of the Seas San Juan May 24 7, 8 Southern Caribbean
Rhapsody of the Seas Tampa November 2 6, 7, 8 Western Caribbean
Oasis of the Seas Ft. Lauderdale April 27  2, 5, 6, 7, 8  Southern, Eastern & Western Caribbean, Perfect Day
Independence of the Seas Miami October 30 3, 7  Eastern & Western Caribbean, Bahamas,  Perfect Day
Icon of the Seas Miami May 3 7 Eastern & Western Caribbean, Perfect Day
Harmony of the Seas Galveston April 27  6, 7, 8, 16  Western Caribbean, Perfect Day, Transatlantic
Grandeur of the Seas Ft. Lauderdale April 18 3 Bahamas
Grandeur of the Seas Tampa April 23 7, 10 Bahamas, Southern & Western Caribbean, Perfect Day
Adventure of the Seas Orlando/Port Canaveral April 26 6, 8 Western, Eastern & Southern Caribbean, Perfect Day

For those looking for unique adventures, including the Pacific Coast, the Panama Canal, and Spain Transatlantic, you can get onboard a one-of-a-kind sailing on a fan-favorite ship. Allure of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas have various itineraries beginning in February, 2025. 

For more information on any of these voyages, or to start planning for 2025-2026, click here. 

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Virgin Voyages in the Mediterranean – yes please!

My husband and I recently cruised in the Mediterranean for the first time, and it was fantastic! We have cruised with several different cruise lines over the years, but they were all in the Caribbean and Alaska. For this trip, we wanted to venture to some of the ports in Europe. We had never considered cruising in Europe because we thought the port times were too short and we would feel that we didn’t have time to see everything. However, we found an itinerary with Virgin Voyages that we liked and decided to go for it.

The name of the voyage was French Daze and Ibiza Nights, and we sailed on the Valiant Lady. The cruise started and ended in Barcelona, and our ports were Marseille, Cannes, Palma de Malorca and Ibiza. We decided that if we felt short on time in any of the ports, we would make a point to revisit some day. Two of the port stays were overnight – Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza – which was just icing on the cake. On those nights, we ate an early(ish) dinner on the ship and then went into town for the evening. We spent our time wandering the winding cobblestone streets and exploring the beautiful bars and restaurants in the old town. Then, the next day, we still had time to visit the landmarks. 

The sunset in Mallorca from our balcony

Why did we choose Virgin Voyages? We have sailed with them previously, and really like what they have to offer. First and foremost, the food is the best that I have had on a cruise. Instead of packing everyone into the main dining room or specialty restaurants (with an upcharge), Virgin simply has six onboard restaurants. We made dinner reservations before our cruise, and also had brunch in two of the restaurants on our sea days. There are no additional charges for any of the restaurants unless you want a tower of crab legs or a 10-pound steak (something like that).

The entertainment is also very different. There are no Broadway-style productions or ice shows. Instead, they offer magicians, mentalists, comedians, a dance party, a crazy game show and a couple other shows that I really don’t know how to describe. And then there’s Scarlet Night, where the whole ship is transformed with red lighting and decor, and the guests are decked out in red. The party culminates with a pool party at 11pm, which gets a bit crazy, but we enjoyed it from the deck above, watching people jump into the pool, red cocktail dresses and all.

My favorite thing about Virgin Voyages is the laid-back vibe. There are no formal nights, and nobody cares what you wear to dinner, as long as it’s not your swimsuit! With that said, we found that most people still dressed nicely, just because they wanted to. For those who didn’t feel like it, they weren’t turned away at the restaurants or made to feel ashamed of their attire.

When we booked our cruise, it included some “bar tab” money, which is their version of a drink package. We don’t drink a whole lot, and since sodas are included with every cruise, we had a “0” balance due at the end of the week. What a great way to end a cruise!

If you’re still reading, let me give you just a few tidbits about the ports:

Marseille – Honestly, we weren’t overly impressed with it. We took a full-day ebike tour, and got to see some beautiful areas around the Calanques National Park, but it’s kind of a run-down city, especially considering it is the second largest city in France, after Paris.

Cannes – We spent our entire day in Monte Carlo, which is something I’ll never forget. It was an easy train ride to get there, and we enjoyed all the beautiful yachts, expensive sports cars, the Royal Casino (think James Bond Casino Royale), and the streets of Formula One. It was the perfect day, and since our ship didn’t leave until 7pm, we did not feel rushed to get back.

The harbor in Monte Carlo

Palma de Mallorca – This beautiful island of Spain is not to be missed. We spent our time wandering the old town, visiting the iconic La Seu Cathedral, and just taking in the beauty of the port city.

Ibiza – What can I say? Everyone needs to see Ibiza at some time in their life. The young people on the ship thoroughly enjoyed the overnight stay because they were able to go to the clubs and stay out until dawn. (Virgin provides a bus that goes back and forth to the ship the entire time.) That’s not our scene but we still loved wandering the area and enjoying a cocktail (ok, maybe more) as we watched the people living and loving life in Ibiza. 

Ibiza

I could easily write ten more pages about Virgin Voyages and the ports we visited but I know the only people who might read it would be my friends and family. ???? I’ll just leave it here – this was the trip of a lifetime and I highly recommend cruising in the Mediterranean with Virgin Voyages.

Book you Virgin Voyage HERE or CLICK HERE if you’d like us to help you plan your sailing!

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Finding Romance on a River Cruise

Those of us passionate about travel often daydream about the cities and places we want to visit someday. In these daydreams, we think about the person we love most and travel the world with them. For couples who dream of checking off destinations around the world together, there’s a way to see and do more with your vacation time: take a river cruise!

River cruising is one of the best ways to visit multiple cities without the stress of travel days, unpacking and repacking, or getting lost trying to find your hotel. With its panoramic suites, themed excursions, and incredible itineraries, Avalon Waterways is the ideal vacation for couples looking for a romantic trip through Europe and beyond.

Avalon Waterways Tapestry 2 in Paris

SEINE RIVER CRUISES

Whether you call it the City of Lights or the City of Love, Paris has captured the imagination of romantics for centuries. This city is famous as the home to some of the world’s greatest museums, restaurants, and the iconic Eiffel Tower. Through the heart of Paris runs the river Seine. Avalon Waterways sails the Seine with several itinerary options to ensure travelers can experience the beauty of Paris and beyond.

Roundtrip itineraries start and end in Paris while also giving guests the chance to explore Northern France with stops in Giverny, Rouen, and Normandy. Some itineraries also feature Paris as the departure point or final port. This means that travelers can plan to spend a few extra days in the city exploring its famous sites before or after their river cruise.

DANUBE RIVER CRUISES

Perhaps the most famous river in Europe for river cruising is the Danube. This river begins the mountains of the Black Forest in Germany and flows all the way to the Black Sea. The river winds through Austria, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, and more countries, treating travelers to views of castles and quaint towns straight from the pages of a fairy tale. With so many countries and sights to see along its banks, the Danube provides plenty of scenery and culture to explore.  

From four-day cruises to twenty-day sailings, Avalon’s Danube itineraries offer the most flexibility and variety for river cruising. This means it’s easier than ever for you and your partner to choose the cruise that works for you. And with cruise extensions, you’ll have the chance to spend even more time in the cities you’ve been dreaming about.

Christmas Market In Frankfurt on a River Cruise

CHRISTMAS MARKET CRUISES

Looking for a way to escape for the holidays or perhaps the perfect gift to give one another? Each year Avalon Waterways helps their guests experience the best of Christmastime in Europe with their Christmas Market cruises. These selected Danube itineraries make sure to include ports in Austria and Germany where Christmas Markets are a staple of the holiday season.

These Christmas Market Cruises sell out fast, so the sooner you book their stateroom, the better! Reservations for 2024 are now open!

Are you interested in experiencing the joy of traveling the world together? Let’s start planning your next romantic getaway today!

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Cruises Perfect for Foodies

While cruise ship dining was long associated with basic dining room fare and over-the-top midnight buffets, cruise ships of today tout imaginative menus, fun experiences, and a variety of specialty restaurants that cater to every preference. This rise and demand from foodies has also inspired creative dining programs, culinary-inspired itineraries, and gourmet experiences on nearly every commercial cruise line.

Creative restaurants, cuisine, and itineraries make these cruises perfect for foodies:

ROYAL CARIBBEAN: WONDERLAND

Wonderland

Cuisine inspired by the five elements (earth, sea, fire, ice, and sun) reigns supreme at Wonderland, where your dining experience kicks off with dipping a paintbrush in water and painting your menu to reveal the food options. Presentation here is stunning – be sure to have your camera ready as your server places each dish before you.

UNIWORLD: TIMELESS WONDERS OF VIETNAM, CAMBODIA & THE MEKONG

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Travelers intrigued by Asia’s culinary delights will find much to savor on this 15-day journey from vibrant Ho Chi Minh City to historic Hanoi. Traveling through Vietnam and Cambodia on the Mekong Jewel, guests will find themselves absorbed in the spices, seafood, and other local edible favorites that connect cuisine with culture.

From toasting at a treasured local restaurant to exploring the night markets, a cruise on the Mekong Jewel highlights the exotic flavors of the region.

CELEBRITY CRUISES: LE PETIT CHEF

15 Celebrityedge Lepetitechef 10364r

Le Petit Chef isn’t just dinner…it’s a unique dining experience paired with an enchanting story told through table art. Four animated miniature chefs from Italy, Spain, France, and Japan showcase specialty dishes from their homelands, combining a choreographed tabletop show with the server’s presentation of your meal. It’s a magical display of culinary and art skills that you’ll remember forever.

AMAWATERWAYS: WINE CRUISES

Wine Hub 800x600


Is there anything more enticing than a meandering cruise through Europe’s wine regions? AmaWaterway’s themed itineraries showcase the celebrated wine regions along the Danube, Douro, Mosel, Rhine, Rhone, and Seine rivers. Guests will find themselves in the company of award-winning vintners from generations of wine-making families on each cruise.

Passengers visit esteemed wineries like Châteanueuf-du-Pape, Saint-Emilion, Sauternes, Médoc, and Margaux. Onboard wine lectures and tastings are accented by optional excursions to olive and truffle farms, and visits to the Cognac region where passengers can blend their own brandy.

WINDSTAR: JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION (SOUTHEAST CANADIAN EXPLORATION)

Seafood On Ice With White Wine


This collection of itineraries from the luxury line Windstar seeks to bring foodies closer to the cuisine of a region, through the perspective of a James Beard Foundation-selected chef. A wine expert also joins the host chef onboard to educate and entertain guests with daily wine tastings.

Itineraries sail from Montreal to Boston, stopping in ports Québec City, Gaspé, Cap-aux-Meules, Louisbourg, Halifax, Lunenburg, Bar Harbor, and Portland. Along the way, passengers will snack on poutine and Arctic char, sample French-styled lobsters, and try the fabled donair of Halifax…all while sightseeing and enjoying an education in history and culture.

Contact us today to experience one of these amazing cruises for foodies!

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4 Reasons Why You Should Experience the Beauty of Alaska This Summer

Travelers have long dreamed of witnessing the vast wilderness of the Great North and checking another state off their bucket list. The 49th state is home to the most pristine and beautiful landscapes in our country and this summer is the time for summer vacations to Alaska.

1. ALASKA IS A RECORD-SETTING STATE



Don’t let the map fool you, Alaska is the largest state. With almost twice the square miles of Texas, there’s more to see and do than you can imagine. It’s also the home to the tallest peak in North America, Mt. Denali, which tops out at just over 20,000 feet. Alaska also contains the largest of the United States’ National Parks, the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve. According to NationalParks.org, with 13.2 million acres, this park is larger than Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park, and the country of Switzerland combined. 

2. YOU CAN STILL TOUR ALASKA BY TRAIN

Train travel is one of the best ways to take in the journey as you venture from town to town in Alaska. With large windows, comfortable seating, and the flexibility to move around the car, train travel allows you to sit back, relax and take in the sights. With trusted cruise lines Holland America and Princess offering land packages with rail, seeing Alaska by train is one bucket-list item that can still be achieved this summer!

3. SEE AMAZING AND UNIQUE ANIMALS

Grizzly Bear Big Five Alaska

Alaska is home to a diverse array of wildlife species, including bears, moose, caribou, wolves, whales, sea otters, and many others. It is also home to several rare and endangered species, such as the Steller sea lion, the North Pacific right whale, and the short-tailed albatross. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see these animals in their natural habitats and seeing them in the wild is a rare and unforgettable experience.

4. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AN ADRENALINE RUSH, THIS IS THE PLACE TO BE

Alaska is a great destination for adventure sports like kayaking, rafting, and dog-sledding! With more than 6,600 miles of coastline, Alaska is a paddler’s paradise. You can explore pristine waters, glacial fjords, and remote islands by kayak or canoe. Looking for something a little more adventurous? Alaska has some of the wildest whitewater rafting in North America, with rivers ranging from mild to extreme. My favorite activity in Alaska is dog sledding! Dog sledding is a quintessential Alaskan experience, and there are many opportunities to try it for yourself. You can take a guided tour or even learn to mush your own team of sled dogs.

Overall, Alaska has something to offer for everyone, whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or just getting away from it all. So why not consider making Alaska your destination this summer?

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