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Resort Spotlight: Secrets Impression Isla Mujeres

Nestled on the serene and captivating Isla Mujeres, Mexico, Secrets Impression stands as a testament to the epitome of opulence and exclusivity. This boutique haven redefines luxury and reimagines personalized hospitality, inviting discerning travelers to embark on an immersive journey unlike any other.

Drenched in the philosophy of Endless Privileges®, Secrets Impression goes beyond conventional extravagance to offer an elevated experience characterized by personalized services, tailored amenities, and unforgettable moments that linger long after your departure.

Embark on an Arrival of Grandeur

Begin your journey in a manner befitting of royalty as you gracefully glide across the cerulean blue expanse from Cancun aboard a private catamaran. The gentle sea breeze and the mesmerizing hues of the Caribbean serve as an enchanting prologue to the splendors that await you on Isla Mujeres.

Secrets Impressions Isla Mujeras

Personalized Perfection: Your Dedicated Butler

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in a world where every aspect of your stay is meticulously curated to your desires. A dedicated butler becomes your guide, attuned to your preferences and poised to cater to your every whim. From orchestrating your daily itinerary to ensuring your comfort and convenience, this personalized touch sets the stage for a truly bespoke experience.

Culinary Artistry: A Gastronomic Voyage

The culinary offerings at Secrets Impression transcend the ordinary, guided by the deft hands of world-renowned master chefs. Delight in an array of artisanal dishes that transcend mere sustenance, inviting you to embark on a gastronomic odyssey. Each plate is a masterpiece, a fusion of flavors and textures meticulously crafted to tantalize even the most discerning palate.

Exploration in Elegance: Your Personal Golf Cart Awaits

Venture forth to explore the enchanting Isla Mujeres in style and sophistication. Awaiting your command is a personal golf cart, your chariot for navigating the island’s hidden gems and breathtaking vistas. Roam at your leisure, discovering local culture, pristine beaches, and vibrant markets, all while relishing the unparalleled freedom of your own private transportation.

Secrets Impression Isla Mujeras

Tranquility Redefined: The Spa Experience

For those seeking serenity, the spa at Secrets Impression beckons with the promise of rejuvenation and restoration. Immerse yourself in a sanctuary of well-being, where ancient healing techniques meld seamlessly with modern innovations. The spa’s repertoire of treatments is a symphony of relaxation, catering to your body’s every need and revitalizing your spirit.

Unprecedented Thrills: Tiered Infinity Pools and Waterslides

Adventure awaits those with an appetite for exhilaration. Plunge into the crystal-clear waters from the pinnacle of tiered infinity pools, an adrenaline rush unlike any other. Descend through a waterslide that seamlessly merges with the horizon, offering a thrilling transition from poolside repose to the embrace of the ocean’s embrace.

Secrets Impression Isla Mujeras

Romantic Escapades: Overwater Cabanas and Sunset Spectacles

As the sun gracefully dips beneath the horizon, kindling the sky with hues of amber and rose, indulge in intimate moments that linger forever. Bask in the glow of twilight while ensconced in your private overwater cabana, an idyllic setting illuminated by the soft flicker of romantic torches. The shared experience of witnessing a mesmerizing sunset becomes a cherished memory, a testament to the enchantment of Secrets Impression.

A Commitment to Conservation: Sustainable Luxury

Secrets Impression is more than a sanctuary of indulgence; it’s a steward of sustainability. The resort holds steadfast to practices that safeguard the island’s natural splendor and uplift the local community. Your sojourn here leaves a positive imprint, as you contribute to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of those who call Isla Mujeres home.

In Closing: A Symphony of Splendor

Secrets Impression transcends the boundaries of luxury, crafting an experience that resonates deeply within your soul. From the moment you step foot on the island, you’re embraced by a world where opulence, intimacy, and innovation converge. It’s a symphony of splendor that invites you to partake in the extraordinary and create memories that will forever adorn the tapestry of your life. Your sojourn here is an invitation to embrace the allure of Secrets Impression, where every moment is a masterpiece of indulgence and inspiration.

Interested in staying at this stunning resort? Book your incredible getaway today.

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10 Surprising things about a River Cruise

River cruises, often overlooked in favor of their oceanic counterparts, hold a treasure trove of surprises that can transform your travel experience into something truly extraordinary. From the intimate charm of the vessels to the picturesque views along the way, here are 10 surprising delights awaiting you on a river cruise:

1. Intimate Atmosphere: Unlike larger ocean liners, river cruises offer a cozy and intimate ambiance. The smaller ships foster a sense of camaraderie among passengers, allowing for meaningful connections and a close-knit community.

2. Ever-Changing Scenery: River cruises wind through picturesque landscapes, offering ever-changing views right outside your window. Each bend of the river reveals a new panorama, creating a journey filled with natural wonders.

3. Dock in the Heart of Cities: River cruises dock in the heart of vibrant cities and charming towns, allowing you to step off the ship and directly into the heart of the action. No long commutes from the port are required!

4. Boutique Experiences: With fewer passengers, river cruises can offer more personalized experiences. From attentive service to tailor-made shore excursions, it’s like having your own private voyage.

5. Cultural Immersion: River cruises focus on cultural immersion, allowing you to connect deeply with the regions you visit. You’ll have the opportunity to explore local markets, taste authentic cuisine, and engage with the local community.

6. Scenic Sailing: The peacefulness of river sailing is a delight in itself. No worries about seasickness or rough waters; instead, you’ll enjoy smooth sailing while absorbing the tranquility of the surroundings.

7. No Crowds: Say goodbye to long lines and crowded attractions. River cruises often visit lesser-known destinations, providing a more tranquil and authentic experience.

8. All-Inclusive Options: Many river cruises offer all-inclusive packages, covering not only accommodations but also meals, drinks, and even excursions. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy your vacation.

9. Cultural Enrichment: River cruises frequently offer onboard lectures, workshops, and demonstrations, providing insights into the history, art, and culture of the regions you traverse.

10. Hidden Gems: Discover hidden gems that larger ships can’t reach. River cruises navigate narrower waterways, giving you access to charming villages and stunning sights off the beaten path.

Embrace the unexpected and allow the enchantment of a river cruise to weave its magic. If you’re seeking a unique and immersive travel experience, a river cruise may just be your passport to unforgettable memories. Contact us to embark on a journey that’s sure to surprise and delight. 🛳️🌍

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Finding Romance on a River Cruise

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Those of us with a passion for travel often daydream about the cities and places we want to visit someday. And in these daydreams, we think about the person we love most and traveling 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 their 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.

Aw Inspired Dining on a 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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5 Reasons to Choose Royal Caribbean for a Family Cruise

Embarking on a remarkable family vacation that captivates both parents and children can often prove to be a challenging endeavor. With the awe-inspiring fleet of Royal Caribbean ships, an extraordinary and unforgettable journey awaits on the horizon!

Royal Caribbean, a renowned and pioneering cruise line, boasts a fleet of splendid ships that redefine the concept of luxury and adventure at sea. Each vessel is a floating paradise, meticulously designed to cater to the diverse interests of families, promising an experience that will create cherished memories for every member.

Setting sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise opens the gateway to a plethora of enticing destinations across the globe. From sun-kissed tropical paradises in the Caribbean to the breathtaking glaciers of Alaska, the choices are boundless. The itineraries are carefully crafted to combine cultural exploration with thrilling excursions, ensuring a perfect blend of enrichment and entertainment for travelers of all ages.

Here are five reasons why Royal Caribbean is perfect for your family cruise.

DELICIOUS DINING

With so many dining venues included in the cruise fare, families can sample food from around the ship without extra costs. Whether it’s satisfying a craving for noodles at the Noodle Bar, ordering a stuffed burrito from El Loco Fresh, or feasting on pizza at Sorrento’s while people-watching on the Promenade, everyone can find food that pleases the palate.

PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN

Children of all ages can enjoy the award-winning Adventure Ocean® youth programs onboard. The Aquanauts (ages 3-5), Explorers (ages 6-8), and Voyagers (ages 9-12) groups have dedicated crew members to engage the children in art projects, science experiments, and games.

Parents can register the youngest passengers for Royal Babies and Tots to attend playtime sessions together. Tweens and teens will appreciate the independence of their own dedicated areas to make new friends, meet for music and dancing, or play video games.

PERFORMANCES THAT WOW

It’s no secret that Royal Caribbean is known throughout the cruise industry for its dazzling live entertainment. Attending Broadway stage productions, ice skating shows, and Aquatheater performances are highlights for many families during their cruise itinerary.

ONBOARD ADVENTURES

Royal Caribbean ships are designed for fun! Waterslides, bumper cars, rock climbing, laser tag, and ziplining are just a few of the adventurous options available onboard. Not a thrill-seeker? How about playing mini-golf, attending a Cupcake Class, singing karaoke, or competing in game shows with other passengers?

Perfect Day at Coco Cay

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

The fun continues off the ship when passengers disembark on Royal Caribbean’s private island. The whole family will be busy swimming in the largest freshwater pool in The Bahamas, splashing down the slides in the waterpark, or taking to the sky in a helium balloon ride or a ziplining adventure. Renting a private floating cabana at the Coco Beach Club is a truly luxurious island experience that offers a peaceful space for relaxing together. Families can make reservations for excursions or spend the day independently exploring and enjoying this island paradise.

Royal Caribbean’s fleet stands as a beacon of excellence in the realm of family vacations, offering an unparalleled blend of adventure, relaxation, enrichment, and entertainment. So, whether it’s the captivating destinations, the abundance of family-friendly activities, the diverse dining options, or the commitment to safety, a voyage with Royal Caribbean promises to be an extraordinary and educational journey, leaving both parents and children inspired and fulfilled. Let’s get started planning your next cruise vacation today!

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Cruising to Europe’s Christmas Markets with Avalon Waterways

Different regions and families have their own holiday traditions, and one of the most enticing European traditions is the Christmas Market. In fact, each year thousands of travelers visit European Christmas Markets, but what exactly are they, and how can you go?

Tallinn Christmas Market


WHAT ARE EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS?

Throughout Europe, the tradition of Christmas Markets has persisted for hundreds of years. It is said that these markets go back to the late-middle ages, around 1300, and originated in German-speaking areas, like Germany and Austria. Today, the Christmas Markets can be found throughout the European continent, with most running from late November through Christmas or New Year’s Day.

WHAT CAN YOU FIND AT TODAY’S CHRISTMAS MARKETS?

The most prominent aspect of a Christmas market is the vendor stalls. Businesses and individuals sell a variety of wares from these stalls, usually items that are traditionally made in the area or are related to the Christmas season. Market mugs, handmade cards, ornaments and hand-carved wooden artwork, like nutcrackers, toys, and wall art to name a few items

Along with handmade and traditional goods, one of the best parts of a Christmas market is the food! Gingerbread hearts, punch, mulled wine, and other regional specialties are favorites among visitors who are looking to dive into a location’s food scene. Many markets also feature Christmas displays, ice skating rinks, and musical performances to entertain guests while they shop, eat, and explore the market.

Christmas Market


HOW CAN YOU CRUISE TO EUROPE’S CHRISTMAS MARKETS?

An Avalon Waterways river cruise is one of the best ways to visit Europe’s Christmas markets. The Danube River and Rhine River have many popular Christmas market cities, such as Vienna, Budapest, Basel, and Strasbourg, along their banks, giving you the chance to visit cities that have been hosting these markets since their founding well over 500 years ago. With tradition on their side, the markets in this region are some of the best you will find anywhere in Europe, particularly those in Germany and Austria.

Avalon Waterways hosts a variety of cruises on both the Danube and Rhine River ranging in length and activities. Some cruises are as short as four days while others, like Christmastime from Budapest to Basel, are 17 days long with the option to add cruise extensions.

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WHY AVALON?

Along with their stellar Christmas market cruises, Avalon Waterways’ onboard experience brings a new level of relaxation and convenience to your vacation. River cruising allows travelers to experience the scenery and culture of Europe without the hassle of repacking suitcases and making travel arrangements. Instead, you sail in the evenings or while you sleep. This also means that you get to spend more time in port exploring the cities and markets.

And Avalon’s ships are suite! Their Panorama Suitessm offer the offer floor-to-ceiling windows so that you can take in the view from the comfort of your bed. The Avalon Fresh program brings local flavors for the chefs to prepare regionally-inspired dishes with the freshest ingredients possible.

Along with their onboard experience, Avalon offers three types of excursions for guests to choose from, Classic, Discovery, and Active. This variety means you can customize your experience while being sure to receive the quality of experience guests expect with Avalon.

Are you ready to experience one of these amazing Christmas markets for yourself? Let’s start planning your exceptional vacation with Avalon Waterways today! We will help you manage pre- and post-cruise hotels and travel logistics to ensure every moment of your trip is taken care of.

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Celebrate the Winter Holidays Around the World

When the days get shorter and we see the first snowflake fall, we know one thing: winter is officially here. For some of us, this means dreading slushy streets or the stress-filled hustle and bustle of the season, but it also brings time-honored traditions and beloved holidays.

It is a time for celebration, for being with your loved ones, for making life-long memories, and of course, for travel.

Cities across the globe illuminate their skylines as they celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and the winter solstice. Here are some of the most breathtaking destinations to celebrate the holiday nearest and dearest to you.

New York City Skyline


NEW YORK CITY

The city that never sleeps doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to winter festivities. If you celebrate Christmas, you’ll surely love the amazing display at Rockefeller Center and the annual Christmas Spectacular at nearby Radio City. Or take a stroll down Fifth Avenue to see the famous window displays and even do some holiday shopping.

New York is also a premiere destination to celebrate Hanukkah with one of the world’s largest menorahs in the Grand Army Plaza (Manhattan and Brooklyn) lit nightly. The celebration includes music and latkes each night at the Brooklyn location.  

Kwanzaa, a celebration of African-American heritage, is also celebrated in New York City. The American Museum of Natural History hosts a celebration with traditional African performances and crafts. Harlem’s famous Apollo Theater, a bucket-list destination in itself, hosts family-friendly activities with dancing and music.

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ENGLAND

The city of Bath during Christmas will transport you to the time of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. From the famous Bath Christmas Market with homemade crafts to lacing up your skates at Bath on Ice, this trip would melt even Scrooge’s heart.

Journey to London for a Hanukkah you’ll never forget. People gather at Trafalgar Square to watch menorah lightings, taste delicious food, and listen to local music performances. Many local Jewish groups also host their own events, so there is no shortage of ways to celebrate.

You have undoubtedly heard of one of England’s most famous landmarks, Stonehenge, but did you know people from all over the world come to this prehistoric monument to celebrate the winter solstice? People gather to watch the sunrise as they play music, dance, do yoga and even kiss the famous stones.

CANADA

The city of Old Quebec transforms into a quaint Christmas village in December. Seasonal décor adorns the stone buildings, and the smell of roasted chestnuts from the German Christmas Market fills the air.

Quebec City, Chateau Frontenac At Dusk, Canada

When the Christmas season comes to end, the Quebec Winter Carnival takes hold. With parades, ice canoe races, snow sculptures, and Bonhomme’s Ice Palace you’ll never want to leave this winter wonderland.

Canada’s Wonderland WinterFest is an entire theme park of winter merriment. The Toronto park is reimagined and enchanted with lights and decorations for the holiday season.  Entertainment, delicious treats, gift shops, ice-skating, and rides are just a few of the many attractions for guests. The Season of Lights is a dazzling light display honoring Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Chinese New Year, and Christmas.

To fill your winter with wonder and experience these destinations and more during the holiday season, contact me today to start planning!

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5 Unforgetable and Unique Luxury Hotels in Europe

Europe is known for its history and culture and is home to many of the world’s most iconic landmarks. These luxury hotels in Europe double as destinations unto themselves, with everything a traveler would need to feel comfortable and pampered.

If you are heading across the pond, one (or more!) of these five-star accommodations will make your European escape even more memorable.

1. The Dolder Grand – Zurich, Switzerland

Consistently ranked one of the world’s greatest hotels, The Dolder Grand also houses an impressive collection of art from the likes of Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali, and others. The original building dates back to 1899, and two modern wings that were added in 2008 seamlessly blend the old and the new. Not to be overlooked are the sweeping views of the Alps, an expansive world-class spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

2. Hotel Santa Caterina – Amalfi, Italy

Beauty is not just on the outside of Hotel Santa Caterina, which is sculpted into the side of a cliff on Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast. Colorful accents and antiques bring the perfect amount of character to the heavenly white linens and curtains found in each suite. This intimate, picturesque property is a honeymooners paradise, dotted with citrus groves and terraces to enjoy quiet moments.

3. 41 – London, England

Visitors are not far from royalty here, both literally and figuratively. Located opposite Buckingham Palace and the Royal Mews, 41 is setting a new standard in service, with 24/7 butler service, and two staff members for each guest. In the past year, this chic boutique hotel earned accolades from Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast and TripAdvisor as one of Europe’s finest.

4. Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace – Budapest, Hungary

One of the luxury Four Seasons brand’s grandest properties, this Art Nouveau landmark wows guests with stained-glass windows, mosaic tiles, and breathtaking views of the Danube River. Rooms feature high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and balconies to soak up even more of the city’s historic center.

5. Le Meurice – Paris, France

This 19th-century-palace-turned-luxury-hotel is a Parisian masterpiece, and for those that appreciate elegance, this is the place to stay in the City of Light. It is ideally located between the Louvre and the Tuileries Garden, and near Paris’s upscale shopping districts. Ultra-luxury travelers can splurge on Belle Etoile Suite, which features rich marble finishings and 360-degree views of Paris from its private terrace.

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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

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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

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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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What are Alaska’s big five, and where can you see them?

From seals to arctic hares, Alaska is home to a diverse range of animals that thrive in its vast swaths of untouched land, including seven of the 12 largest National Parks in the US. Many travelers make the trip to the Last Frontier to catch glimpses of Alaska’s remarkable wildlife, the most notable of which are referred to as the Big Five.

WHAT ARE ALASKA’S BIG FIVE?

Pecora Di Dall, Dall Sheep, Thintorn Sheep, Ovis Dalli
Dall Sheep

Originally the term Big Five referred to five large land mammals that were difficult to hunt, but today they are the five animals that visitors are most lucky to spot while spending time in the wilderness.

The Alaskan Big Five are moose, bears (both black bears and grizzly bears), Dall Sheep, Caribou, and Gray Wolves. Visitors Many people can picture moose, bear, and wolves in their minds, but have never seen them in person, especially not in their wild habitats. On the other hand, Caribou and Dall Sheep may be a bit harder to picture.

Dall Sheep are a species of sheep found only in Alaska and western Canada. They have coarse white fur that covers an insulating coat of fine wool. Their large, curved horns most easily recognize them on either side of their heads. Both males and females have these trademark horns, but the males’ horn are usually larger. These sheep are mountain climbers who thrive on the high, windy cliffs of Alaska.

Three Curious Caribou
Caribou in Alaska

Caribou is another name for a reindeer. These animals stand about six feet tall, not including their antlers, and are common in arctic climates. They often travel in herds as they migrate around their annual routes. They are unique among deer species because both the males and females have large antlers that they shed in the winter.

WHERE CAN YOU SEE THEM?

Travelers have the best chance of seeing Alaska’s Big Five by visiting Denali National Park. Since being established in 1917, this park has protected over 6 million acres of Alaska’s wilderness as well as the highest mountain peak in North America, Denali (formerly Mt. McKinley). The name Denali was given to the mountain by the Koyukon people; its name means the high one. To learn more about the park, visit the National Park Service’s website.

Grizzly Bear Big Five Alaska
Grizzly Bear

HOW TO GET TO ALASKA

The travel season in Alaska is usually between late May and mid-September. These months are when most tours operate, and cruise lines sail around the area. For your best chance at seeing the Northern Lights, plan to travel in August or September.

For many travelers, a cruise is one of the best ways to visit Alaska. Cruises combine transportation, accommodation, dining, and entertainment in one convenient package while also allowing guests to see several locations in one trip. Cruises lines also have connections with many local tour operators, providing their guests with reputable options for everything from hiking glaciers and whale-watching to fishing or meeting sled dogs. Travel agents are masters at pairing you with the cruise line that will deliver your dream Alaskan experience.

Wolf, Porträt, In Natürlicher Umgebung
Gray Wolf

For those looking to keep their feet firmly on land, riding the rails through Alaska can be a great way to see the state. Rail cars allow their passengers to travel comfortably while taking in the scenery around them. With so many options, we can add value by helping their clients determine the best Alaskan itinerary for you.

Want to do both cruise and land? Many cruise lines have their own lodges on land and land tour packages that cruisers can add as either a pre-or post-cruise option!

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8 Unique Destinations for the Ultimate Island Getaway

An island getaway is perfect for those looking for seclusion, sprawling beaches and the relaxing rhythm of crashing waves. Hundreds of thousands of islands occupy the world’s lakes and oceans, each one offering travelers something unique.

Discover which of these island destinations suits your travel style, and let’s get started planning your trip to get off the grid.

1. CANARY ISLANDS

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European, African and South American cultures collide on this string of seven islands that sit west of Morocco in the Atlantic. There’s something for almost everyone here, including history, natural landmarks like Mt. Teide and if you go during Carnaval, a party that is second only to Rio’s. The comfortable, stable climate means that tourists are here year-round, so to avoid crowds and experience the islands’ innate beauty, venture outside the major resorts in Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

2. ST. LUCIA

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This eastern Caribbean isle is most easily recognized for its dramatic Pitons that soar up from the southwest coast. Honeymooners often choose St. Lucia for its romantic resorts, but the lush, unspoiled scenery also makes a perfect backdrop for hiking or ziplining. Music lovers flock to the island in the spring for the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival, which has previously featured headliners like Flo Rida, Diana Ross, and Ziggy Marley.

3. MYKONOS, GREECE

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Often thought of as Santorini’s wilder sibling, Mykonos has recently become a hot spot for celebrity holidays. Hip new restaurants and hotels are popping up among the more traditional whitewashed buildings, which means this party hub’s prices will continue to rise. For less noise and lower prices, avoid the peak months of July and August.

4. BORA BORA

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Though this French Polynesian island is only six miles long and two miles wide, the “Pearl of the Pacific” packs an impossible amount of beauty into every inch. The lush greens and warm, aquamarine waters are the stuff that tropical vacation dreams are made of, and luckily for visitors, many of the accommodations feature over-the-water bungalows.

5. ST. MARTIN – ST. MAARTEN

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Guests to this dual-governed island can easily hop back and forth between the French-controlled northern end of the island, and the Dutch-controlled south. The north tends to exude a more fashionable, relaxed vibe, while the south boasts casinos and a vibrant nightlife scene. No matter where you are, there’s bound to be rave-worthy restaurants, and plenty of options for fun in the sun.

6. ICELAND

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Not every island is known for its tropical climate and sun-tanned tourists. Iceland’s jaw-dropping natural wonders, like volcanoes, glaciers and geysers, are reason enough to draw visitors to the Land of Fire and Ice. There’s also plenty of culture to be savored in Reykjavík, whether that be listening to live traditional music or enjoying fresh, innovative Nordic cuisine.

7. TASMANIA, AUSTRALIA

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Out-of-this-world terrains and diverse wildlife are two reasons to travel to this remote Australian state best known for its namesake cartoon devil. For those that aren’t outdoorsy types, the island’s isolation has also fostered a thriving local culinary scene, with ingredients that truly can’t be found anywhere else.

8. SEYCHELLES

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Composed of 115 islands dotting the Indian Ocean east of Africa, Seychelles is home to some of the world’s most untouched, uncrowded beaches. Many of the tranquil shores are also fringed by sea-sculpted granite boulders, remnants of the island’s origins as a granite mass attached to India. For privacy seekers, it doesn’t get more remote — or more exclusive — than Seychelles.

Whether your sights are set on sweeping views, culture, adventure, or just catching some rays, there’s a perfect island getaway for everyone!

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