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Discovering the Future of Wellness Travel in Sweden

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Mon, 30 Mar 26 19:19:16 +0000

Recently in Sweden, I experienced ancient wellness practices intertwined with new science and artistic sensibilities. In many ways, Sweden wrote the book on wellness as a way of life and a travel destination. And my stays at two sister hotels in Stockholm proved the country is in the vanguard of redefining wellness travel again.

In case you missed it, in 2025, Sweden became the first country where doctors can prescribe travel for wellness. The global leader in quality of life, renowned for its thousands-year-old sauna culture, is an inspiration for wellness lifestyle – and a beacon for wellness travelers… and now this:

The “Swedish Prescription”

In a wellness ‘first,’ Sweden has become the first country where patients can download a medical referral form to take to their physician for wellness travel to the country!

The Swedish Prescription isn’t a marketing gimmick. The program is rooted in deeply-held Swedish beliefs and practices, like

‘fika:’ social rituals of connecting with loved ones;
‘lagom,’ or achieving balance, moderation, and sustainability in your way of life;
love of getting outdoors, no matter what the weather, and of course,
sauna and thermal hot/cold practices,

all of which combine to create meaningful and scientifically supported health benefits.

Hagastrand and Hotel J: Beyond the Spa Hotel

All that said, why would anyone go to Sweden in the winter, far enough north that the sun rises after 8 am and sets mid-afternoon?

I went to spend a week immersed in the wellness experiences at 2 of Stockholm's Nobis Hospitality Group hotels: Hagastrand and Hotel J.

The company has set a new gold standard for wellness travel, following a three-year renovation program, masterminded by Alla Sokolova, its Head of Wellness.

“I think every human being has an innate wish to be in their best form,” she explained to me. Her vision for the wellness program at the hotels is for a stay there to be part of a “never-ending learning journey” to help create winning conditions for guests to achieve their maximum performance, their best selves.

HAGASTRAND SPA AND HOTEL

When it re-opened in Fall, 2025 as part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, Hagastrand Spa and Hotel was already billing itself as a “new social wellness destination” in Sweden’s capital. A post-modern building attached to a historic military barracks in the quiet, seaside location of Stockholm’s Royal Park, Hagastrand re-launched with a 27,000 square foot, cutting-edge wellness center with some practices that are the first of their kind.

If you’re imagining a clinical, white-jacketed, James Bond-style European health retreat, think again. Instead, Hagastrand offers warmth, along with a masterful and welcoming blend of ancient practices and advanced therapies, including modern technologies that deliver wellness experiences to guests in one-of-a-kind ways, all under one roof.

There’s also a focus on music, “a universal language” that “everyone can relate to,” Alla adds.

“Tuning our bodies and our minds,” as she puts it.

Hagastrand’s facilities incorporate both traditional Nordic and international wellness practices, as well as sensory design and the newer concept of ‘biohacking.’

Along with treatment rooms and private suites you expect to find in a spa or wellness center, Hagastrand’s includes:

Underwater therapeutic music in its 18-meter indoor pool;
A Thermal center, with multiple saunas, including herbal and hammam, and also:
- Sweden’s first "Event Sauna," one of the few in the world, for up to 60 guests. As an ‘event,’ one of Hagastrand’s trained sauna masters invites guests in the wellness center to join them in a paced series of rituals where the sauna master employs herbs, music, infused ice, and spoken word to lead guests through a wellness journey that changes every time.
- Scandinavia's largest snow room for cryotherapy
Experience showers, red light therapy, and neuro-acoustic massage loungers.
Gongs, handmade in Italy, including a giant (as tall as a person) gong at the end of the pool played by hand by sauna masters, and
- in the ‘Gongmatic’ room (pictured, top), a ‘self-playing’ gong – also the first in the Nordic countries – which plays in timed performances as guests lie on warm ceramic lounge beds. The audio art installation immerses guests in vibrations and invites them to embark on a meditative journey.
Cardi suit – like a giant diving dry suit with hands and feet, except that a therapist fills this suit with carbon dioxide. The therapy increases blood flow to the cells, resulting in improved oxygen delivery, performance, and rest. Cardi suits are already used extensively by high-performance athletes, but are rarely available to the wellness-seeking public – including me!

The state-of-the-art wellness experiences flow harmoniously with the new versions of familiar practices and are woven seamlessly into a hotel stay that includes warmly Nordic accommodations, stylish bars, and a fine dining restaurant (no restricted, seaweed smoothie diet here unless you wish!) that even drew a member of the Swedish Royal Family while we were dining one evening.

HOTEL J

Sister property Hotel J draws inspiration from its location on the Stockholm archipelago in a Newport, Rhode Island-type neighborhood of illustrious and historic seaside homes.

The nautical and natural themes run deep, from stunning water views and terraces overlooking the sea, extensive gardens that are not just visual but also harvested for wellness herbs and botanicals, and, of course, its wellness offering.

Hotel J’s Sauna by the Sea is a ritual all the more memorable for its location in the Panorama Sauna perched on rocks rising from the waves. The sauna itself is on the second story, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing the perfect vantage point over the sea to become part of your herbal-infused sauna ritual. And a cold plunge into a wintery sea is just steps out the door to conclude your authentic Swedish sauna!

But we also got off property, accompanied by ‘nature therapist’ Lisen Sundgren, who took us on a Swedish interpretation of that famous Japanese wellness practice, ‘forest bathing.’ During a walk in a nature reserve next door in the twilight, where dimming sight helped sharpen our other senses as we were guided to literally feel, hear, and smell the woods. We ended up on a rocky lookout over the sea and the lights of Stockholm on the opposite side of the archipelago, sipping her homemade Swedish rosehip soup and communing by the mystical twinkles of lamp light.

SANCTUM

From the primal forest… to a wellness rave!

In another ‘first,’ Hagastrand and Hotel J’s parent company has introduced ‘Sanctum’ to the Nordics as part of its wellness experience offering. We were invited to the launch party at the Nobis Hospitality Group’s event space at the Stockholm Opera House.

Sanctum hosts these ‘wellness raves’ around the world for a growing community drawn to the euphoric release of its hour-long, high-intensity, music-led 55-minute sessions that combine HIIT, Kundalini yoga, breathwork, and meditation. Ours in Stockholm was candle-lit in the awe-inspiring historic surroundings… in complete silence, with sound healing, music, and guidance delivered through headphones.

***

Embracing the widest interpretations of wellness lived through ancient traditions, Nature, technology, art, and the most welcoming Scandinavian culture and lifestyle… these Swedish hotels are setting the stage for a new global approach to wellness travel.

The Nobis Hospitality Group’s founder gives all the credit for the hotels’ pioneering wellness journeys to Head of Wellness Alla Sokolova – a risk, but a calculated one, with a simple foundation of beauty and hospitality.

“Everybody today is talking about longevity and all these things, and sometimes it's too much,” Alessandro Catenacci, owner and CEO of the family-owned Nobis Hospitality Group, told me.

“I hate the word ‘trend.’”

He acknowledges that the groundbreaking wellness offerings of the two hotels are “a new thing for us,” but “things are not so complicated usually if you do it in the right way.” He points out that wellness practices are a natural way of life for Swedes.

“We are a sauna family.

“And this is very important because you, you can't go on doing things if you don't like that. I love it, really.”

Hagastrand and Hotel J may be on the leading edge. But advanced wellness experiences for travel are no longer a novel trend.

As more travelers intentionally incorporate their wellness practices from home into their travels to new destinations, and expand their wellness horizons while traveling, wellness hospitality will take the lead from Hagastrand and Hotel J in helping us discover the destinations’ best experiences to hone our mental, physical, and spiritual health.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images and story by: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Why is it Called ‘Easter’ Island?

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Mon, 30 Mar 26 19:18:12 +0000

You likely already know that’s a trick question. This tiny dot in the eastern South Pacific Ocean, but technically a territory of Chile, is actually properly called Rapa Nui.

The world over, Easter Island has been synonymous with exotic mysteries of an impossibly distant, long-lost civilization and mind-boggling human endeavor.

It may be the most remote inhabited island on the planet. Only a few thousand people live on this remnant of oceanic volcanoes sticking out of the sea, and that's the first miracle itself. The closest inhabited island is 1300 miles away (Pitcairn Island with only 50 people), and the nearest continental point is Chile, over 2000 miles away. Local tales say a 2-canoe Polynesian expedition around AD 700 was the start of Rapa Nui's extraordinary story.

Today, Easter Island is on the map as one of the corners of the millions of square miles of the Pacific Ocean known as Polynesia – the other corners for easy reference are Hawai’I and New Zealand. And it’s on the map of global travelers who want to come face to face with the island's nearly 1000 moai at its UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Monuments to the Past

These stately, solemn statues were carved during a 500-year period in the island's history, beginning a thousand years ago. The moai share artistic characteristics with Polynesian carvings, confirming the origin tale of the Rapa Nui people. Chiseled with only stone tools out of volcanic rock in the 'quarry' of an extinct volcano, each statue took a team of half a dozen artisans about a year to complete. The largest is over 30 feet long and weighs 90 tons. They were an incredible feat of creativity, production, and organization.

You probably think of them as 'Easter Island heads'. But the moai actually have torsos, and some even have complete lower bodies; they were just buried up to their necks over the centuries by shifting sands.

These monumental statues represented deceased ancestors. And only about a quarter were originally installed; others were left in the quarry or remained en route to their intended locations. All but 7 faced inland, the spirits of the deceased 'watching over' the living and their lands. The 7 facing the sea stood as wayfinders for seafarers.

Many moai were toppled after the mysterious collapse of the Rapa Nui society in the 19th century. In recent decades, local and international efforts have restored and re-mounted a number of moai. This dot on a map in Chilean Polynesia still seems as awe-inspiring and as full of hidden secrets as when explorers first arrived.

Timing is Everything

Which brings us to: Why is it called Easter Island? The Dutch explorer who was the island's first-recorded European visitor arrived on Easter Sunday in 1722 – he came upon it while searching for another island. (He must have been pretty lost!) So 'Easter Island' it was dubbed, and its current official Spanish name in Chile is still Isla de Pascua, while its Polynesian name is Rapa Nui, in the local language: the 'naval of the world'.

There's more to Rapa Nui than the silent witness of the moai to the island's past. Visitors experience the local version of Polynesian culture, explore pink-sand beaches, caverns, and dive sites, cycle, hike, or ride horses across prairies and volcanic hillsides, and even surf on those waves so distant from other shores.

How to get there? You can fly from both Chile and Tahiti, participate in tour packages offered by expedition and exotic travel experts, arrive by small or expedition cruise ship, or by private yacht.

There may be nowhere else in the world where a traveler can feel the greatness of human achievement and small in the face of a culture so far across the waves.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert.

Images: Getty

The April Fools of Travel Destinations

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Mon, 30 Mar 26 19:17:54 +0000

World travel is easier than ever. But it seems world geography is not! Some destinations remain stubbornly — and even hilariously — confused by travelers, media, and even governments. The result is a mix of comedy, branding opportunity, and unsuspecting travelers finding themselves in the wrong place.

In some cases, people simply don’t know the difference, and it’s a case of mistaken identity and some embarrassing social media posts. Others are tiny spelling errors that have landed travelers on the opposite side of the world from where they expected to be. There are cities, countries, and regions that regularly get confused.

Admit it: even an intelligent and savvy traveler like you gets some of these destinations mixed up!

So what better time than April Fools to run through the hit parade of trickster travel destinations?

Australia or Austria?

Australia and Austria are as different as two countries can be. And in different hemispheres!

Australia is a young, vast, sun-drenched country defined by distance—beaches, reef systems, and cities like Sydney that feel plugged into the Pacific. It’s long-haul, laid-back, and larger-than-life.

Old World Austria is compact, landlocked, and classically European—Alpine peaks, imperial history, and cultural heavyweights like Vienna and Salzburg.

Yet their confusion is so persistent that Austria’s tourism board leaned into it with the now-famous line: “No Kangaroos in Austria!”

Sweden or Switzerland?

This is possibly the most politely awkward confusion in global travel.

So common, in fact, that Visit Sweden launched an entire campaign to address it—complete with a straight-faced “negotiation” video proposing a formal division of national identities.

The messaging is brilliantly deadpan:

Switzerland has banks; Sweden has sandbanks

Switzerland has yodelling; Sweden has a silent nature

The Swiss keep the watches; the Swedes offer the luxury of forgetting about time

It’s funny because it’s true. The confusion shows up in headlines, speeches, and travel plans more often than any half-experienced traveler would like to admit.

Grenada or Granada?

“Tomayto”, “Tomahto.” Grenayda, Granahda. Two destinations thousands of miles apart, and cultural worlds apart.

Grenada is a Caribbean island nation where there’s nutmeg in the air, rainforest spilling into the sea, and long, languid afternoons on Grand Anse. It’s called the “Spice Island” for a reason.

Granada, on the other hand, is a city in Spain: Moorish palaces, tapas culture, and the architectural marvel of the Alhambra rising above the city like a mirage.

One is barefoot, the other is baroque.

Dominica or Dominican Republic?

This is less a mix-up and more a recurring travel identity crisis. They’re both countries, and both in the Caribbean. But that’s where the similarity ends.

Dominica (dom-in-EE-ka) is volcanic, rainforest-thick, and defiantly underdeveloped. You go here to hike, to soak in hot springs, to earn your cocktail off the beaten track. You have to work a little harder to vacation in Dominica. You won’t find direct flights from North America. Instead, you connect on Island Hopper Airlines through regional hubs like Barbados, San Juan, and St. Lucia.

The Dominican Republic is a hub. It’s one of the Caribbean’s largest countries and most popular beach resort destinations —built for sun-seeking travelers, with resort areas like Puerto Plata and Punta Cana, and a rich colonial history in Santo Domingo. All-inclusive resorts line the country’s beaches, and airlines and packaged tour operators serve the country well.

Slovakia or Slovenia?

Here’s a quick test: can you place these two Central European countries on a map?

Slovakia and Slovenia don’t just sound similar—they both fly under the radar of popular European travel destinations, so they’ve gotten used to handling the non-stop cases of mistaken identity.

Embassies have long reported receiving each other’s diplomatic pouches. Invitations to official events have arrived in the wrong capital. Trade documents, cultural exchanges, even the occasional VIP correspondence—misaddressed, misrouted, and then, very politely, forwarded along. The postal services of the two countries meet regularly to exchange misaddressed mail!

Meanwhile, the destinations themselves couldn’t be more distinct. Slovakia leans into its Danube River culture, castles, and Carpathian drama; Slovenia into alpine lakes and storybook perfection—hello, Lake Bled.

Baltics or Balkans?

This one is a classic travel-writer slip—and a reminder that “similar-sounding” regions are not all created equal.

The Baltics are the three countries on northeastern Europe’s Baltic Sea coast: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. They share a common history shaped by Northern and Eastern Europe and are today known for compact capitals, medieval old towns, and a blend of Nordic and Eastern European influences. Cool, composed, and increasingly design-forward. Think Tallinn’s medieval perfection, Riga’s Art Nouveau swagger.

The Balkans refer to a broader region in southeastern Europe that includes countries such as Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia. The region is culturally diverse, shaped by Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian histories, and ranges from Adriatic coastlines to inland mountains. Sunshine and history weave through a tangle of cultures that stretch across southeastern Europe, from Adriatic coastlines to inland capitals shaped by empires.

Same opening syllable. Entirely different narratives.

The Moral of the Story

It always happens to someone else you can laugh at - until it’s you landing in the wrong country. Even the most seasoned travelers can be tripped up by a familiar-sounding place and a hastily confirmed booking.

Work with an expert travel advisor, and always double-check your travel documents.

Happy April Fool’s Day… and

START YOUR TRIP (TO THE RIGHT DESTINATION!)

By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Images: Getty

Celebrity River Cruises Reveals Experiential Approach to Shore Excursions

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Mon, 30 Mar 26 19:17:32 +0000

The hotly anticipated new river cruise line has shared how it’s planning to offer its guests a new way to experience the river communities of Europe when it debuts in 2027. Four curated categories of exclusive and included shore excursions reveal how guests will river cruise, Celebrity-style.

Local insiders lead the Storyteller Series and Skillmaster Series, while the Keys to the City Series gives guests the tech-driven power to explore on their own with insights curated to their own interests and passions. Available once per sailing, the Celebrity Takeover Series delivers one-of-a-kind, bespoke experiences.

The shore excursions are available across all 2027 and 2028 Celebrity River Cruises itineraries, and pre- and post-cruise stays in Prague, Budapest, and Amsterdam.

Storyteller Series: Included locally led experiences that go beyond what guidebooks can capture

Celebrity River Cruises' Storyteller Series offers experiences guided by residents, artists, and cultural insiders who call each destination home. Guests can choose from multiple included experiences at each port, each balancing iconic landmarks with hosts’ personal favorites and hidden stories only locals know. Here are a couple of examples:

Amsterdam

A canal captain will share Amsterdam's centuries-long relationship with water, showing guests an unseen side of the city’s iconic waterways. Guests will cruise hidden passages, through the eyes of someone with deep family ties to the region, as they admire the city’s oldest building, Oude Kerk, board a legendary Dutch trading ship, and learn about modern canal engineering.

Prague

Guests who enjoy discovering a city through food and drink will be led through the city’s rich brewing traditions by a local brewer. From the brewer’s unique perspective, guests will explore historic breweries like the bustling U Vejvodu Tavern, as well as beer-infused artisanal shops. Taking a journey that blends history and hospitality into every pour, the brewer will show guests how centuries-old recipes shaped the city’s culture of connection and celebration.

Skillmaster Series: Included, hands-on experiences invite guests to actively participate in local culture

Guests craft, cook, and create alongside the artisans and makers who shape each destination's cultural identity in shore excursions like these:

Budapest

A local Mamika (grandmother) will lead aspiring culinarians through generations-old Hungarian recipes from her own home kitchen. After selecting ingredients at the local Central Market Hall, guests will uncover dishes that bring Budapest’s soul to the table through Mamika’s treasured family recipes and cooking secrets.

Amsterdam

A local artist leads a painting class that immerses guests in Van Gogh's imagination. After exploring the famed painter’s works at the iconic Van Gogh Museum, guests will discover the settings that influenced some of his greatest pieces while learning some of the techniques he used to turn emotion into color and movement into meaning.

Keys to the City Series: Included independent digital discovery tools with complimentary behind-the-scenes access and stationed local hosts

Through an innovative digital platform, guests access curated route maps tailored to specific interests such as art, history, food, and architecture.

Interactive maps, audio guides, and video content lead guests off the beaten tourist path to interest-led locations, where stationed local hosts provide behind-the-scenes access and exclusive experiences at working studios and craft sites, creating moments of surprise and delight. For example:

Bratislava

Architecture enthusiasts will follow their curiosity to St. Martin’s Cathedral, hearing from a local historian who brings its coronation past to life, before hiking to Bratislava Castle to see how the fortress has watched centuries of change, then pausing beneath the modern span of the UFO Bridge with an architect who explains its bold vision.

Uncover the city’s authentic Slovak flavors from raising a glass in a traditional Slovak pub while a generational brewer pours his stories into every craft drop, to tasting delicate sweets in a family-run pastry shop where the baker shares recipes passed down through decades. Guests will curate their adventure, shaping their own path to uncover the stories of cities exactly as they choose.

Celebrity Takeover Series: Included one-of-a-kind experiences for bucket list memories

Once per sailing, these exclusive, bespoke experiences transform must-see European attractions and unassuming plazas into elevated private events available only to Celebrity River Cruises guests. Celebrity says these are “indulgent bucket-list experiences” designed to be the defining memory of your river cruise

Pre- and Post-Cruise Stays the Celebrity Way

Celebrity River Cruises guests can extend their journey with multi-day pre- and post-cruise stays that carry the same locally-led, small-group discovery philosophy as every sailing.

Available in Prague and Budapest beginning in 2027, and also Amsterdam in 2028, each stay includes daily small-group tours with local hosts, premium hotel accommodations, dedicated concierge service for dining reservations and private experiences, daily breakfast, and airport transfers.

The result is a seamless, end-to-end journey from arrival to departure with no gap between the onboard Celebrity River Cruises experience and the destination discovery that defines it.

Bookings for 2027 and 2028 pre- and post-cruise stays in Summer 2026 open, and all other destination experiences will open for booking in 2027. Celebrity River Cruises sailings are on sale now.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Celebrity River Cruises

Savings for Solo Travelers on Tauck River and Land Journeys

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 11 Mar 26 22:35:45 +0000

Tauck has announced that it’s reducing the single supplement or eliminating it entirely on dozens of 2026 land and river journeys, making this the best time for solo travelers to book their next trip. The single supplement is waived entirely on Category 1 river cruise staterooms and reduced across dozens of other river and even land tours.

Solo River Cruise Travel Savings in Europe

On Europe’s rivers, Tauck will again waive the single supplement on all Category 1 riverboat cabins, eliminating it entirely on every departure of each Tauck river cruise itinerary—more than 250 departures in total in 2026!

These solo-friendly sailings will include a new itinerary, Bordeaux, Paris & The Seine, which sails aboard the newly launched ms Serene.

In addition, Tauck will reduce the single supplement by USD 1,000 on certain other cabin categories (typically Categories 4 and 5) on select European river cruise departures in 2026.

Solo Land Touring Savings Worldwide

Solo travelers exploring the world on Tauck land itineraries will also enjoy meaningful savings in 2026, with single supplements reduced by up to $600 on 105 departures of 37 itineraries spanning North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.

In North America, Tauck will reduce the single supplement by up to $300 on 34 departures of 12 itineraries, including journeys to iconic national parks, cultural capitals, and scenic regions across the U.S. and Canada, such as the newly introduced A Week in… Nova Scotia.

On European land itineraries, solo travelers will enjoy savings of up to $400 on 52 departures of 18 itineraries, with destinations ranging from Italy and France to Spain, Great Britain, Scandinavia and Central Europe.

Elsewhere in the world, the single supplement will be reduced by $600 on seven departures of seven Tauck global journeys in Asia, Africa and Latin America — the highest savings offered across Tauck's land portfolio, reflecting the company's commitment to making these bucket-list destinations more accessible to solo travelers.

ASK US TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT SOLO TAUCK TRIP!

Travel Value Beyond Savings

In addition to single supplement savings, solo travelers benefit from the sense of ease, confidence and connection they feel from the very beginning of a Tauck river cruise or land tour.

Every detail is thoughtfully taken care of — from hotel and restaurant reservations to sightseeing and transportation — with guests supported and welcomed by the expertise of Tauck Directors or the camaraderie that naturally develops within the group. It allows guests to relax, explore and fully immerse themselves in the journey.

More About Tauck

Founded in 1925, Tauck has been family-owned for four generations. The company is a world leader in upscale guided travel, with more than 170 land tours, safaris, river cruises, small-ship ocean cruises, and family travel adventures to 65+ countries and all seven continents.

Tauck was named “Best Tour Operator” in 2025, and in each of the last 28 years, has been honored in the “World’s Best Awards,” and has been named to the Best River Cruise Lines list for13 consecutive years, most recently in 2025.

*** Images courtesy of Tauck

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full offer, itinerary, date and pricing details.

Beyond the Beach: Unforgettable March Break Family Adventures

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 11 Mar 26 22:35:23 +0000

Break the boredom of March Break getaways. There’s still time to make March Break about more than the beach. This time of the year presents a whole planet of excitement – and it’s not too late to plan the family break that will create memories of a lifetime. If swapping flip-flops by the pool, with the wonder and exploration that bind families together, appeals to you, here are some inspiring alternatives to all-inclusives.

Viking History Immersion in Norway

For families with budding historians (or kids obsessed with Viking mythology), Norway delivers.

In Oslo, real Viking ships more than 1,000 years old bring sagas to life.

WATCH VIDEO, TOP: Viking Ship Museum in Oslo, Norway

Outside the city, snow-covered fjords and forests invite cross-country skiing — a national pastime kids can try with beginner lessons.

Storytelling traditions, stave churches and dramatic winter landscapes make the past feel close enough to touch. And you won’t leave Norway without falling in love with its ubiquitous trolls!

Mid-March sweet spot: lingering snow, lengthening daylight, far fewer tourists than summer.

Safari During Calving Season - Tanzania

Make this March Break the trip of a lifetime with a family safari. In parts of the Serengeti, mid-March aligns with calving season — when thousands of wildebeest give birth within weeks. It’s dramatic, educational and utterly unforgettable.

Family-friendly tented camps offer guided game drives and conservation talks. Lions, elephants and giraffes appear not on screens but in living color in one breathtaking scene after the next.

Mid-March sweet spot: wildlife intensity before heavy long rains begin.

Samurai, Robots and Bullet Trains in Japan

Japan in mid-March hums with anticipation of the cherry blossom season. Even if peak bloom arrives later, the energy is electric — and the crowds are lighter than April.

Families can ride the Shinkansen bullet train at 300 km/h past the snowy peaks of Mount Fuji, dress as samurai in Kyoto, explore ancient temples one day and immersive digital art museums the next. Kyoto’s gardens and temples strike a mystical chord, and castles evoke history and legends.

Tokyo’s neon skylines, anime and tech districts fascinate teens, and no one will forget its iconic fish market and tasting sushi the way it was meant to be! And fill up on Japanese comfort food in the pleasantly cool climate.

Mid-March sweet spot: mild weather and pre-blossom buzz.

Alpine Storybook Adventure - Austria

March snow in Austria’s Tyrol region is often excellent, and ski schools are among the most family-friendly in Europe. But this isn’t just about downhill runs. The ski scene in Europe is a different experience from that in North America, giving your family the opportunity to broaden their horizons in a worldly way.

Think torchlit evening walks through medieval villages. Tobogganing down floodlit mountain tracks. Lunch in alpine huts serving hot chocolate so thick it feels like pudding. In Innsbruck, colourful townhouses and imperial history add cultural depth between ski days.

Mid-March sweet spot: strong snow conditions, sunnier skies, fewer January crowds.

Camel Caravans and Sahara Stars in Morocco

Summer in the Sahara can be blistering. March? Glorious. Warm days, cool nights.

Families can ride camels across golden dunes near Merzouga, try sandboarding, and gather around Berber campfires under a sky pierced with stars. With no city lights, the Milky Way feels almost close enough to touch.

Explore markets and casbahs, drink iconic sweet mint green tea and indulge your palate in new and appealing flavors you’ll crave once you return home. Maybe take a family cooking class to share your family’s newfound culinary favorite with loved ones at home!

Mid-March sweet spot: ideal desert temperatures.

Fire and Ice in Iceland

March in Iceland is a full-scale natural theater.

Families can walk across moss-covered lava fields, explore ice caves, and soak in geothermal pools while snowflakes fall. Waterfalls thunder against icy cliffs, and you can stand steps from the world’s original ‘geyser’ as it erupts high into the air.

If the skies are clear, northern light sightings are still possible before spring fully settles in.

And don’t miss unique Icelandic foods like their iconic street food, their one-of-a-kind mutton hotdog!

Mid-March sweet spot: winter landscapes without the deep-dark January days.

***

This March, trade forgettable pool time and buffets for wonder and lifelong memories. Trips like these – even just the week of the break- will carve this family time together into young minds and create shared stories to relive forever.

START YOUR TRIP!

Video, Iceland images: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Images, unless otherwise noted: Getty

Princess Cruises Celebrates Margarita World Record – and Winning Celebrity Partnership

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 11 Mar 26 22:34:25 +0000

Cruise lines love to break records – competing for the biggest ships, introducing firsts-at-sea, and of course, creating record-breaking events that give thousands of guests the chance to make history… well, until the record is broken again!

Princess Cruises is no stranger to world records. In 2024, the cruise line set a record for the largest pizza party at sea, with guests consuming over 60,000 slices across 16 ships. The event marked a partnership with 13-time World Pizza Champion chef Tony Gemignani, who developed exclusive artisanal pizzas for the fleet.

Now they’ve done it again, shifting from a favorite food to a favorite holiday cocktail.

And their margarita world record is one piece of an even bigger celebrity partnership mosaic.

On February 17, 2026, during a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise from Galveston, Texas, the Regal Princess became the location for another record-breaking party. The event turned the ship into a floating fiesta for the ship’s 3500 guests to celebrate Princess Cruises’ most popular cocktail.

Over 8 hours, the guests did their part to help break the Guinness World Record for most margaritas sold in 8 hours.

How many, you ask? Well, raise your salt-rimmed glass to the guests of the Regal Princess, who ordered 3410 handcrafted margaritas. That easily tops the previous record of 2,728 for the iconic lime-and-tequila cocktails.

What’s more, the occasion coincided with Princess Cruises marking the sale of over 1 million of its signature “24K Margaritas” between January, 2025 and January 2026.

The 24K Margarita is the fleet’s most popular signature cocktail, made exclusively with Pantalones Organic Blanco Tequila, co-founded by Matthew and Camila McConaughey.

The million-margarita milestone arrives just over one year after Princess Cruises and Pantalones Organic Tequila launched their fleetwide partnership in October 2024, quickly becoming one of the most successful beverage collaborations in cruise line history.

Camila and Matthew McConaughey are also the godparents of Princess Cruises’ most recently-launched ship, the Star Princess, the newest Sphere-class ship from Princess Cruises. They officially christened the vessel in Fort Lauderdale on November 6, 2025, using none other than a bottle of their tequila. For the world record-breaking, the couple sent a congratulatory video message that was played onboard to the guests of the Regal Princess as the record was announced, with the audience roaring its approval.

While made with Pantalones Tequila, Princess Cruises’ most popular cocktail is otherwise a classic margarita: handcrafted with Cointreau, Grand Marnier, margarita mix, and served over ice in a salted-rim glass.

And in addition to the 24K Margarita, guests can toast their cruise with any of a lineup of handcrafted cocktails created by Princess’s Mixologist Rob Floyd has designed a menu of other margaritas using the McConaugheys’ tequila, too, like

Pants on Fire – with Reposado tequila, fresh lime juice, Campari, smoked paprika and agave
Sea Legs – Reposado tequila, Luxardo Maraschino, fresh lime juice, grapefruit juice, agave syrup and soda
Hot Pants – Blanco tequila, fresh lime juice, pineapple juice, fresh jalapeno and agave
Fancy Pants Paloma – Reposado tequila, fresh lime juice, Fever Tree grapefruit

To ensure your cravings for the cocktail never go unsatisfied, there’s even a roaming ‘Pantalones Organic Tequila Custom Cart’ capturing the ‘spirit’ of the McConaughey brand throughout the voyage.

In just over a year, having one of these cocktails on board has become an essential Princess Cruises experience fleet-wide.

And now, with the margarita world record, Princess Cruises has put a cherry on top of a celebrity brand partnership that’s a template for the kind of wild success that cruise lines – and avid cruise travelers! – are looking for.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert

Images courtesy of Princess Cruises

New Viking Cruises on the Mississippi Open for Booking

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 11 Mar 26 22:34:12 +0000

Viking is expanding its river cruises in North America with the launch of two new itineraries on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, celebrating the region's history, culture and culinary traditions. Both are now open for booking for 2027 sailings.

DON’T WAIT FOR THESE CAPACITY-LIMITED CRUISES TO FILL UP!

LET US HELP YOU BOOK YOUR 2027 VIKING CRUISE CLOSE TO HOME!

NEW 15-day Bayous, Blues & Bluegrass itinerary, which operates between New Orleans and Louisville, featuring ports of call along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.
Explore the rich heritage of the American South, the birthplace of some of the country’s most beloved culinary and musical traditions. Along the Mississippi River, grand homes preserve the South’s past. Step into Civil War history at Vicksburg and feel the rhythm of the blues in Greenville. Further north, sample smoky barbecue in Tennessee and discover Kentucky’s legacy of craftsmanship, from the powerful Louisville Slugger to smooth bourbon.
NEW 8-day Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer itinerary sails between Memphis and Louisville for a shorter option.
Sail on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as they wind past scenic wetlands, quaint towns and storied cities. Classic American musical genres—the blues, rock ‘n’ roll and bluegrass—arose along these waterways. Discover the legacies of icons such as B. B. King and Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee. In Kentucky, Louisville’s baseball museum preserves the spirit of America’s favorite pastime while its bourbon distilleries honor generations of craftsmanship.

These 2 new itineraries join Viking’s existing cruises on the Mississippi:

Mississippi River Odyssey (22 days; New Orleans – St. Paul) – Revel in the charm of “America’s Great River” as you set sail along the Mississippi. Admire the historic mansions and grand homes atop its bluffs, and delve into America’s Civil War history. Delight in the region’s famed Southern cuisine and sample Memphis’s renowned barbecue, alongside artisan beers. Birthplace of American music—blues, jazz and soul—the Mississippi celebrates its musical heritage in the towns and cities that line its legendary shores
Mississippi Delta Explorer (8 days; New Orleans – Memphis) – Discover Darrow, the gateway to the grand homes of the Lower Mississippi and explore the fascinating towns along the banks of the Mississippi that preserve the memory of the American South’s early history. Learn about Natchez’s French and Acadian heritage and pay your respects at the Vicksburg battlefield. Savor delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as Memphis’s famous barbecue, as you celebrate musical legends in the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll.
Heartland of America (8 days; St. Louis – St. Paul) – Journey along the Upper Mississippi while you hear stories of intrepid pioneers and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Walk in the footsteps of famed writer Mark Twain and learn about the Norwegian migration to the Midwest. Enjoy the view as your ship navigates through the river’s intricate lock system and experience the region’s many cultural treasures—from ragtime, polka and Norwegian folk music to Wisconsin cheese, craft beer and hearty stews.
New Orleans & Southern Charms (8 days; New Orleans roundtrip) – The Lower Mississippi is rich with charm, history and hospitality. Explore historic estates and visit notable Civil War sites. Sample the bustling French-flavored port cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Sway to the tempos of Dixieland jazz, gospel and blues. Savor gourmet Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as traditional Southern fare. Join us, and see why local Cajuns say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” (Let the good times roll).

Your Ship: The Viking Mississippi

Hosting 386 guests in 193 all-outside staterooms, the state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking's award-winning river and ocean ships and features elegant Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but reimagined for Mississippi River voyages.

The ship’s cutting-edge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities make the Viking Mississippi the first truly modern ship in the region.

More About Viking

Viking is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row and is also rated a “World’s Best” - no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications.

*** Images courtesy of Viking

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full itinerary, date and pricing details.

Equine Travel Experiences to Celebrate Year of the Horse

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 11 Mar 26 22:33:50 +0000

Whether you are a devotee of the Chinese/ Lunar calendar, for many of us, horses are our spirit animals, and the Year of the Horse reminds us why. Since the earliest civilizations – is any other creature so well-represented on the world’s cave walls, ancient scripts, wall carvings? - Humans around the world have fallen in love with the majesty, power, elegance, intelligence and awe-inspiring beauty of horses. Not to mention utility. Horses became invaluable companions in agriculture, early industry, war and transportation. In connection with what may be human’s / history changing relationship with a single animal.

As technology advanced, our relationship with horses everywhere has changed… but in many places, our love affair with horses and riding traditions continues.

Here are just a few of the best experiences in some cultures with rich, storied equestrian traditions. As a spectator or an active participant, here are places to celebrate your inner equine spirit.

Spain

In sun-washed Andalusia, horses are woven into the fabric of history, life, and human drama. They even become high art at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art.

Here, gleaming Andalusian stallions perform intricate dressage choreographed to Spanish music — precision elevated to poetry, with distinctive historic costumes that remind us that to be Spanish is to ride (pictured, top).

The main attraction is the performance itself, but visitors can tour the stables, watch training sessions and even book riding lessons with school-trained instructors for a deeper connection.

It’s refinement rather than raw adventure — and utterly mesmerizing.

Austria

Beneath the extraordinary chandeliers at Vienna’s palatial, Baroque Spanish Riding School, legendary Lipizzaner stallions perform their famed “airs above the ground” — levades, caprioles, equine dance movements that seem to defy gravity.

The atmosphere is hushed, reverent. Attend morning exercise sessions for a more intimate look at training in progress.

Visitors cannot ride the Lipizzaners themselves, but private carriage tours in Vienna and riding schools throughout Austria allow travelers to connect with the broader equestrian culture.

Its heritage is preserved in military tailcoats and centuries-old tradition.

England

Meanwhile, English polo is outdoor summer theatre -with a competitive edge and Royal pageantry.

At Guards Polo Club near Windsor and Cowdray Park Polo Club in West Sussex, the British season unfolds on immaculate emerald fields. Spectators sip the classic British polo cocktail, Pimm’s punch, picnic beside the pitch and stroll out to stomp divots between chukkas.

The matches are fast and tactical — ponies pivoting sharply, mallets striking with precision.

Travelers can attend major tournaments as spectators, book hospitality enclosures, or – if you’re a rider - arrange beginner polo lessons at affiliated clubs outside tournament play.

It’s sport wrapped in ceremony — linen, horsepower and long golden evenings.

Chile

In Chilean Patagonia, horses aren’t a novelty or a nod to history — they’re part of everyday ranching life.

On remote Argentine estancias, herding days unfold on horseback across grasslands beneath Andean peaks. Gauchos ride with effortless authority over the landscape, horse and rider equally proud. Rivers are crossed without fuss; sheep are herded with quiet whistles.

Travelers don’t just watch — you can jump into the saddle too. Ride alongside working gauchos on half-day, full-day or multi-day estancia programs. No elite experience required; the horses are steady, the pace immersive rather than intimidating. You’re traveling at the speed of sheep, after all.

Evenings end with asado around an open fire and the deep sleep of a day spent outdoors. You won’t need reminding to forgo your devices and stop worrying about wifi. Patagonia teaches rhythm.

Morocco

Few silhouettes are more cinematic than an Arabian horse against the Sahara sands. On your next trip to Morocco, forgo a camel ride in favor of a horse expedition.

Canter along Atlantic beaches near Essaouira or venture inland for guided desert treks across golden dunes. Fabled Arabian horses are spirited but sure-footed, led by Berber guides who balance adventure with safety.

You may even witness a fantasia — ceremonial horsemen charging in synchronized bursts of thunder.

***

Make the Year of the Horse the year you reconnect with the ancient, primal human tie to hoofbeats in the world’s epic landscapes and cultures.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

Oceania Cruises Goes Adults-Only: A New Trend?

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Mon, 12 Jan 26 16:04:15 +0000

Oceania Cruises has joined an exclusive cruising club, announcing that it’s joining the ranks of cruise lines banning kids. You may be surprised which – and how few - cruise lines are truly adults only.

If you’ve done any luxury, especially small-ship cruising, you’re likely used to NOT seeing many children. That’s certainly about to be true on Oceania Cruises.

Oceania Cruises has announced that, effective January 7, 2026, new bookings will “welcome guests aged 18 and older.” Bookings made before that date that include young people will be honored.

The cruise line says the move follows “extensive research” and feedback from guests, and is about “elevating the onboard ambiance and responding to the preferences of its guests.”

According to Oceania, “Feedback consistently showed that guests choose Oceania Cruises for its serene atmosphere, sophisticated service and unhurried pace, traits that are highly sought after and valued by mature, affluent travelers.”

"Our guests have consistently shared that the tranquil environment aboard our ships is one of the primary reasons they return time and time again," stated Jason Montague, (tellingly titled Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises). "By transitioning to an adults-only experience, we are enhancing the very essence of the Oceania Cruises journey – one defined by sophistication, serenity and discovery."

Is the adults-only announcement part of a transition to full-on luxury for Oceania Cruises?

Recently, the cruise line has increasingly indicated that it now considers itself in the ‘luxury’ category. It’s part of the family of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, which includes family-friendly, mega-ship Norwegian Cruise Lines, Oceania, previously considered to be more in the ‘premium’ category, with sister cruise line Regent Seven Seas Cruises positioned as the ‘luxury’ brand in the family.

Aren't Kids Banned from All Luxury Cruises?

Oceania’s announcement may come as a surprise to you – there is an impression that all of the more luxurious, and especially smaller-ship lines are already adults-only.

Not so.

In fact, many luxury and small-ship cruise lines – ocean and river, including Seabourn and Scenic – do welcome younger family members, just without the theme park environment.

However, you really only see the children of officers (always impeccably behaved), or families on those luxury and small-ship cruises during the school holiday periods and particularly in family-friendly cruise destinations. Alaska during the summer holidays, for example. Christmas market river cruises.

Other than Oceania, only two ocean cruise lines explicitly ban kids – and for completely opposite reasons! Which 2 cruise lines already banned kids – and why??

CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT IN THIS VIDEO

Is this a Sign of Luxury Cruising to Come?

Since Oceania’s announcement, there’s been a resounding social media chorus of Oceania and other cruise lovers praising the move. But at least one cruise line is absolutely bucking this trend.

Relative newcomer, ultra-luxury, small-ship cruise line Explora Journeys embraces younger cruise travelers with open arms. Not only are babies, children, and teens accepted, but Explora Journeys is designed for families and their kids, with:

Savings: Infants (6-23 months) sail free, and children (2-17) get up to 50% off.
Nautilus Club: A dedicated kids' club for ages 6 to 17 (even 3-5-year-olds, if accompanied by an adult) with age-appropriate activities and hosts.
Family Amenities: Connecting suites, child and baby amenities like smaller bathrobes, slippers and hangers, cribs, with blankets, linens and pillows. For infants aged six months to two years, toys are also available in the suite.
Age-Specific Fun: Activities include sports (football, pickleball), games, and themed evenings.
Dining: The culinary team accommodates younger guests, and kids can even dine with their hosts in the club.

So whether your vision of luxury cruising involves family and multi-generational vacations or an adults-only haven, you still have many excellent options.

START YOUR TRIP!

Story and video by: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise /travel journalist and expert

Top Image: Oceania Cruises' Gérard Bertrand Food and Wine Pairing lunch

Bottom Image: Explora Journeys' Nautilus Club

Get In the Know About the Islands of Italy

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Mon, 12 Jan 26 15:55:35 +0000

Travel beyond ‘the boot’ to Italy’s inspiring islands. With thousands of miles of Mediterranean coastline, some of the best Italian destinations are floating dramatically offshore, from the world-famous to others that feel like secrets shared over a late-night glass of local wine. Travel like someone in the know, island-hopping in Italy with insider info and tips.

Sicily

Epic, cinematic, and deeply delicious.

Famous for: Mount Etna’s volcanic drama, ancient Greek temples, glorious Baroque towns, Palermo’s markets, cannoli, granita, and that intense, layered history you can taste in every meal.
Pop culture moment: The Godfather filming locations in Savoca & Forza d’Agrò, and the White Lotus season that put Taormina back on everyone’s bucket list.
Insider vibe: Avoid high-season crowds by staying in smaller towns like Ragusa Ibla or Noto — and spend at least one night on the slopes of Etna at a vineyard hotel. Sicily rewards slow travelers.
Jet-setting note: Taormina is back — but book boutique, not flashy.

Sardinia

Wild freedom meets discreet luxury.

Famous for: stunning, clear turquoise waters, private coves and pristine beaches (especially Costa Smeralda), prehistoric ruins, rich cultural traditions, distinct cuisine featuring sheep's cheese and wine, mountainous landscapes, and as a "Blue Zone" known for longevity. It's celebrated as a "micro-continent" for its diverse ecosystems and strong identity, distinct from mainland Italy.
Pop culture moment: The Costa Smeralda’s golden era — think 1960s jet-set glamour — quietly continues today.
Insider vibe: Skip the headline beaches and go north to the La Maddalena archipelago by boat — or inland for shepherd lunches and slow travel.
Jet-set note: Billionaires flock to Sardinia's Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast), particularly Porto Cervo, a purpose-built playground for the ultra-rich featuring exclusive marinas for mega-yachts, high-end boutiques, private villas and luxury hotels.

Capri

Glamour, style… and lemons.

Famous for: The Blue Grotto, Faragliono Rocks (pictured above), Via Camerelle boutiques, cliff-top views, limoncello, lemon granita, and movie-star mythology.
Pop culture moment: Brigitte Bardot, Jackie O, and the endless parade of modern celebrities who still make Capri their summer stage. The above-the-ankle chic pants you wear with handmade sandals on a lazy seaside day even took their name from the style-setting island of Capri in the mid-century height of the jet set.
Insider vibe: Stay overnight. Day-trippers head back to the Amalfi coast mainland, the piazzetta empties, and suddenly Capri feels like a village again. Dinner at a family-run restaurant beats any “see-and-be-seen” spot.
Trending secret: Anacapri — quieter, more local, equally breathtaking.

Ischia

The spa island is overshadowed by Capri — and that’s exactly why insiders love it.

Famous for: Thermal waters, volcanic mud baths, gardens, and wellness retreats.
Pop culture moment: Featured in The Talented Mr. Ripley — but somehow still underrated.
Insider vibe: Spend a day drifting between pools of different temperatures, then seafood dinner by the castle. This is where Italians go to recover from life.
Hidden gem energy: Therapy in the sunshine.

Procida

Tiny, pastel colors, unpolished in the best way.

Famous for: sherbet-colored houses stacked above the harbor (pictured, top), fishermen mending nets, sleepy afternoons.
Pop culture moment: Il Postino was filmed here — and it kept that soft, poetic, slightly nostalgic atmosphere.
Insider vibe: Come for lunch, wander slowly, don’t rush. No big resorts, no attitude — just real island life.
Trend forecast: Becoming a “slow travel darling,” but still delightfully under the radar.

Elba

Elba has history, beaches and breezy, outdoorsy charm.

Famous for: the location of Napoleon’s exile, Mediterranean pine forests, snorkeling coves, and family-friendly towns.
Pop culture moment: referenced in films about the later years of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Insider vibe: Rent a bike, sail a bit, picnic on the beach. This is summer as Italians actually do it.
Hidden gem: Capo Sant’Andrea — incredibly clear water without the drama.

Ponza

Pretty, authentic, quietly glamorous and where the residents of Rome go when they want to get away from the world.

Famous for: grottos, striped cliffs, and tiny harbor restaurants (pictured above).
Pop culture moment: Italian celebrities have long escaped here, but avoid being photographed here.
Insider vibe: Rent a boat, swim in hidden coves, eat spaghetti alle vongole, repeat.
Trend alert: Slowly being “discovered,” but still wonderfully low-key.

From Capri’s glamorous touchstone, to Ischia’s wellness lifestyle, Sardinia’s rugged nature and a billionaire’s playground, there’s an Italian island calling your name for your next vacation.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

Where Will the Quest for Wellness Take You This Year?

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 30 Dec 25 18:55:00 +0000

Wellness travel is being redefined for a new, more aware generation of travelers, and the destinations wellness travelers are seeking combine ancient practices, new approaches and focus on different outcomes. It’s not about counting calories or just getting a massage. Today, it’s about rediscovering your best self — through movement, nourishment, sleep, connection to people and nature, and mindfulness. All within the context of exhilarating travel experiences.

If these goals are piquing your travel inspiration, here are some of the best destinations worldwide to tap into a living culture of wellness.

Nurtured by Nature

In Sweden, wellness is an everyday rhythm rather than an event. Concepts like lagom (just enough) and friluftsliv (living outdoors) invite you into forests, lakes, and quiet islands. Fika social rituals connect you with people. Sauna-and-cold-plunge traditions in hotels and lodges aren’t just cozy; they come with proven health benefits.

In Costa Rica, wellness is woven into the national mindset: Pura Vida — the “pure life.” Misty cloud forests, eco-lodges tucked into the jungle, surf-and-yoga mornings, and volcanic hot springs create space to unplug and breathe.

Iceland delivers a different kind of clarity. Steam rises from geothermal pools against black-lava landscapes. Alternating hot and cold becomes ritual — a reminder that resilience and renewal often go hand in hand.

Traditions of Inner Peace

Some places invite deeper reflection.

In Thailand, healing is hands-on: centuries-old massage, meditation monasteries, and detox retreats that gently reset body and mind.

In India, wellness travels back to its roots. Yoga along the Ganges, Ayurvedic programs in Kerala, and spiritual centers that honor tradition offer journeys that feel transformative rather than trendy.

And in Bali, creativity and community blend with wellness — yoga shalas among rice terraces, plant-forward cuisine, and a sense of spiritual hospitality that feels welcoming, not intimidating.

Healing Waters

The world’s great spa cultures have always known: water is medicine.

In volcanic Japan, slipping into an ancient onsen beneath mountain pines becomes meditation and living history.

In Italy, thermal waters meet slow food, village life, and long walks through history.

And in Hungary, grand bathhouses remind you that rest can be both social and deeply restorative.

Lust for Longevity

For travelers seeking structure — or science — destinations like Switzerland, Germany, and Austria combine alpine air with medically guided programs, high-tech clinics, biohacking, and hiking that feels as restorative as it is breathtaking.

Solar Power

Closer to the beach, Mexico blends spa luxury with cultural ritual: temazcal sweat lodges, ocean-facing yoga decks, and retreats ranging from simple to indulgent.

In Portugal, surf towns, vineyards, coastal walks, and boutique hotels make wellness feel delightfully accessible — and delicious.

Defining your own Wellness Travel

It isn’t just about goat yoga and green juice.

These destinations nurture wellness because they offer:

authentic traditions,
access to nature, from forests to hot springs to the sea
holistic experiences — movement, rest, nutrition, mindset
sustainability that feels respectful
choice — from barefoot retreats to sophisticated medical programs and even ‘biohacking.’

Ask yourself:

Do you crave silence or adventure? Ritual or exploration? A gentle reset — or a deeper shift?

Wellness travel doesn’t tell you who to become. It simply gives you the places, the practices and the inspiration to listen — and begin your wellness journey.

START YOUR WELLNESS TRIP!

Images: Getty

Top Travel Resolutions That May Actually Get You Packing Your Bags This Year

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 30 Dec 25 18:54:23 +0000

Every year, “travel more” is in the mix of resolutions. But what travel resolutions can get you from dreaming of a trip… into the beauty and benefits of real travel experiences?

Surveys consistently show that nearly two-thirds of Americans leave a third of their vacation time unused, and a quarter of workers don’t take any time off at all! That’s despite mounting evidence that travel is a boon for our physical and mental health, relationships, and more.

Here are some additional travel resolutions that may help you on your journey towards making travel a genuine and enriching part of your life in the coming year... and make you feel better about yourself and your trips.

Travel more often
Make time instead of waiting for “someday” — even if it’s short trips over long weekends that don’t use many vacation days.
Plan (and actually use) vacation days
Scheduling and booking trips early helps you commit, and money already paid is an incentive to follow through.
Save intentionally for travel
Create a “travel fund,” cut small expenses, or use reward programs strategically towards a specific travel goal.
Focus on one “dream trip” - even if it’s not going to happen this year
Turn your bucket-list trip from a daydream into a reality — whether that’s Japan, an African safari, or the Greek islands – by working with a travel advisor to build a real plan, then taking concrete steps towards making it happen.
Explore closer to home
Discover close-to-home gems instead of only flying long-haul. Creating a travel habit and mindset will make bigger trips feel more achievable.
Travel slower
Spend more time in fewer places, avoid rushing, and experience daily life instead of checklist sightseeing.
Prioritize wellness
Combine rest with exploration — spa retreats, forest bathing, yoga trips, hot springs, or hiking escapes.
Be more sustainable
Plan trips that support local businesses, communities and natural treasures, pick eco-certified stays or tours, stay in properties with real commitments to sustainable construction and operations, and make conscious choices like eating locally-grown food, choosing reef-safe sunscreen and offsetting flights.
Plan to learn something while traveling
Cooking class, language lessons, wine tastings, history walks, photography workshops — travel with purpose.
Practice spontaneity
Leave a day unplanned, try new foods, or say yes to experiences outside your comfort zone.
Travel with people who matter
Multi-generational trips, reunions with friends, or meaningful solo journeys to reset. Create memories with those you care about most.
Document travel better
Keep a journal, organize photos, or make short videos — instead of letting memories disappear into your phone.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

Is the Slow Travel Trend For You?

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 30 Dec 25 18:54:01 +0000

It’s official: ‘FOMO’ is out. And ‘JOMO’ is in. After years of racing through “bucket lists,” something quieter is reshaping travel. We’re no longer chasing the Fear of Missing Out on travel experiences. Instead, we’re discovering the Joy of Missing Out — and we’re not alone.

According to a recent survey for Norwegian Cruise Line, over 70% of travelers are moving away from fast-paced sightseeing and toward more restorative, meaningful escapes. Nearly half confessed they’ve come home from past trips feeling more exhausted than refreshed — and now, 77% say they intentionally plan slower vacations.

That’s the spirit of slow travel: choosing presence over pressure, savoring moments instead of stacking them. And being a little easier on the planet at the same time.

Here are some of the loveliest ways – and places - to embrace it.

Stay Longer, Go Deeper

Slow travel begins with permission: pick one destination and linger.

In Tuscany, a boutique heritage hotel becomes your “home base,” while locally guided Vespa tours, a market-and-cooking experience, and skip-the-line museum tours give you insider access to the best of local life.

In Seville, stay near orange-scented plazas, take a flamenco class, not just see the show, explore tapas bars with a local guide, and spend sunset wandering the Alcázar gardens.

Time transforms destinations into familiar territory.

Let Trains Tell the Story

Rail journeys reveal sides of a country you might not see any other way.

Cross Canada on a scenic rail itinerary with curated stops along the way. Travel from Paris to Provence in comfort, then join small-group excursions to vineyards and villages. In Japan, a rail pass paired with guided day tours opens mountain valleys and temple towns without the stress of logistics.

The rhythm of the tracks slows down the rhythm of life.

Walk With Intention

Walking tours invite meaning into every mile.

Follow the Camino de Santiago supported by luggage transfers, charming inns, and expert hosts. Explore England’s Lake District with a local guide who knows the quietest trails. On Japan’s Kumano Kodo, stay in traditional guesthouses and soak in onsen between forest paths.

You notice more because you’re traveling at the speed of curiosity. And connecting with fellow walkers.

Stay on Working Land

Food becomes a story when you stay where it’s grown.

Agriturismo stays in Tuscany let you help harvest olives and dine family-style, countryside estates in Portugal’s Alentejo offer relaxed wine tastings and picnics among cork trees, or vineyard retreats in New Zealand with tastings and behind-the-scenes cellar visits or sheep farms where you do yoga with new lambs.

The land becomes more than scenery; it becomes livelihood.

Ride the Rivers

River cruising is ideal slow travel, with a typical week-long itinerary traveling a route that you could drive in less than a day. Imagine what you are missing!

Take a leisurely river itinerary through the Rhine Valley, with castle towns unfolding at walking speed. Amble off your river cruise ship on France’s Rhone River at your leisure to explore medieval towns, iconic vineyards and wine regions, truffle farms, and olive oil presses.

Ocean Cruises: “JOMO” in Motion

The NCL study found that more than half of travelers see cruises as ideal for JOMO — especially in the Caribbean, which topped the list for slow-minded escapes.

Onboard, travelers choose their pace: spa time, quiet lounges, sunrise walks on deck, or staying aboard when others go ashore. Logistics are simplified and taken care of, and there are always corners to simply be — which is often exactly what people need.

It’s about doing whatever feels right for you that day.

Image courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Live Like a Local — Thoughtfully

Think boutique hotels in Sydney near local cafes, with early morning walks in the botanical gardens and behind-the-scenes tours of the Opera House, design-forward guesthouses in Mexico City’s Condesa with guided food walks, or family-run inns in the Scottish Highlands paired with day trips to hidden glens and whisky distilleries.

Belonging happens in the details — and local hosts and guides make curated stays easier and more enriching.

Is Slow Travel for You?

The research echoes what many already feel: travelers want fewer obligations, less travel ‘work,’ more nature, more local experiences, and days that unfold at their own pace.

In a world urging us to hurry, slow travel — and the Joy of Missing Out — offers permission to savor the journey, not just check things off a list.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: unless otherwise identified, Getty

The Wide World of Sparkling Wine: How to Order Like a Local

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 30 Dec 25 18:53:40 +0000

If you’re the kind of traveler who believes every destination (in fact, every good moment in life!) becomes even better with a glass of something effervescent (excellent life choice), this guide is for you. Sparkling wine isn’t just a drink; it’s a cultural passport. The wine of celebration and occasion is produced in vineyards around the world, and depending on where you land, the name for those bubbles changes just enough to make you want to fit in like a local when you order it.

Here’s how to ask for your favorite bottle of bubbles around the world.

France: The Capital of the Popping Cork

In France, sparkling wine is woven into everyday life as the wine to drink as an aperitif before a meal, the little glass you have when you get together with friends, and of course, the beverage of celebration.

Don’t limit yourself to ordering Champagne, the sparkling wine produced exclusively in the region of Champagne. Peruse the wine list for sparkling wines made in other regions of France, which are called Crémant.

Feeling extra French? Lean in and request “des bulles” (literally “some bubbles”). Well, aren’t you charming?

Italy: Where Bubbles Are a Lifestyle

Although France lays claim to the mother of all sparkling wines in Champagne, Italy, too, lives for sparkling wine. Veneto’s Prosecco is the country’s proud ambassador of sparkling wine and moods. For something more refined, look for Franciacorta or Trentodoc.

But the Italian word you’ll hear everywhere? “Bollicine”, their delightful nickname for “little bubbles.”

United Kingdom: The Crown Jewels of Fizz

Believe it or not, England produces sparkling wine – some of the best in the world! In 2025, as the BBC reported in such a British way, “an English fizz became the first non-Champagne to be named the world's top sparkling wine.”

English sparkling wine is having a fabulous moment. So spread your wings a little in the UK and try the local bubbles instead of Champagne or prosecco. Take your cue from that BBC article and ask for a glass of “fizz.”

Spain: Fiesta in a Glass

Head to Barcelona or San Sebastián and order Cava, Spain’s crisp traditional-method bubbly. In Penedès, you may spot Corpinnat, a premium label worth splurging on. And if a server asks if you’d like “vino de aguja,” it means lightly fizzy, perfect for an afternoon by the sea.

Portugal: Where the Bubbles Are as Warm as the Welcome

Ask for Espumante, especially in Bairrada. Locals may casually call it “vinho com bolhinhas” (wine with little bubbles). It’s as charming as it sounds, especially when paired with a sunset over the Atlantic.

Australia: The Land of the “Bubbly”

In one of the New World wine capitals, the go-to phrase is “bubbly.” It’s cheerful, informal, and perfectly suited to a country that also invented Sparkling Shiraz, perhaps the most festive red on earth. If you hear Aussies asking for “bubbly,” “sparkling” or “fizz,” you know good times are ahead.

New Zealand: Laid-Back Luxury

Next-door New Zealand produces top-tier traditional-method sparklings (often labeled Méthode Marlborough), but everyday chatter sticks to “bubbles” or “fizz.” Best enjoyed after a hike, a beach day, or… honestly, anything.

South Africa: Cape Town’s Favorite Celebration

South Africa’s premium traditional-method wine is Méthode Cap Classique, or MCC. But among friends you’ll hear: “Shall we open some bubbly?” The answer is always yes, especially in Franschhoek’s sun-soaked tasting rooms.

Brazil & Argentina: South American Sparkle

In Brazil, locals order Espumante, sometimes shortened to “espuma.”
In Argentina, the common term is Espumoso or simply Espumante, perfect with empanadas or a rooftop sunset in Buenos Aires.

Final Sip

From “bollicine” in Italy to “bubbly” in Australia, every destination has its own sparkling personality, and learning the local lingo is half the fun.

Wherever your travels take you, we hope you celebrate the world of bubbles and find the opportunity to toast every country’s version.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

Riverside Luxury Cruises’ Early Booking Bonus: up to 18% Discount

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 30 Dec 25 18:52:48 +0000

For a limited time, Riverside Luxury Cruises offers double-digit savings for early bookings for 2026 and 2027 sailings as it opens reservations for its 2027 sailing season, featuring a full calendar of departures across its European fleet, with sailings from early spring through late December on routes ranging from short three-night getaways to extended 23-night journeys. Riverside has also added expert-led theme cruises to the 2026 sailing schedule, focusing on culinary, active pursuits and local celebrations.

ASK US ABOUT EARLY BOOKING BONUSES!

Act now while staterooms are still available.

Riverside rewards early planning for 2026 cruises:

• 15% discount for all bookings made by February 28, 2026.
• 10% discount for all bookings between March 1 and May 31, 2026.

Early Booking Discounts for Cruises Departing in 2027:

• 18% discount for all bookings made by June 30, 2026
• 15% discount for all bookings made between July 1, 2026 and February 28, 2027
• 10% discount for all bookings made between March 1 and May 31, 2027

Curated Theme Sailings in 2026

New additions to the 2026 calendar include theme cruises designed to allow guests to explore their interests and curiosities while enjoying Riverside’s signature service.

GOLF

The six-night Pearls of the Danube Golf Cruise (July 23–29) brings guests to championship courses in five historic cities, including Hungary’s oldest golf course and several of Europe’s top-ranked venues. Personalized guidance from an onboard golf pro helps guests refine their game both on deck and on the fairway, complemented by enriching talks and swing sessions on the Vista Deck.

BEER

Beer enthusiasts can look forward to Hops & Heritage: Cruising Through Centuries of Brewing Craftsmanship (July 29–August 5) on the Rhine River. Curated and hosted by noted beer sommelier James Kellow, this first-of-its-kind luxury voyage through Europe’s legendary beer heartlands pairs regional brews with gourmet dining, celebrating beer’s cultural roots and craftsmanship.

FESTIVALS

The eight-night Destination Danube: Hungary National Day & Scenic Wachau Valley (August 19) coincides with Hungary’s National Day celebrations, when parades, folk traditions, fireworks, and regional cuisine fill Budapest, and Riverside guests will have the best view from the ship’s prime docking location. The itinerary continues to Bratislava, Vienna, and Linz before concluding in Passau.

What’s New for 2027

DANUBE

Riverside Mozart introduces new routing on the Danube River for 2026 and 2027, including many options sailing round-trip from Vienna. New 14-night itineraries allow travelers to explore the Upper Danube without repeating a single port and offer flexible embarkation options for a more customized experience. Riverside’s flexible scheduling model also includes shorter Danube sailings ranging from three to seven nights. In addition, Riverside Mozart will call on a guest favorite, the Lower Danube, again in 2027.

RHONE

In France, Riverside Ravel will offer a new highlight to their Rhône itineraries—an evening sailing through the Rhône Delta south of Arles, where the river flows into the Mediterranean Sea. This UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve is home to flocks of pink flamingos, free-roaming white horses, and black bulls. In the months of July through September, when water levels are more stable, Ravel will add the Saône River to the schedule.

RHINE

On the Rhine River, Riverside Debussy will continue to sail through the Netherlands and Belgium in spring 2026 and 2027, celebrating the magic of tulip season. During summer, Debussy will operate the classic Amsterdam–Basel route, including new four- and five-night sailings ideal for pairing with land tours. In spring and fall 2026, the ship repositions to the Danube, sailing a seven-night Bavarian itinerary before spending a month exploring the Lower Danube between Hungary and Romania.

More About Riverside Luxury Cruises

Riverside Luxury Cruises is Europe’s newest and most luxurious river cruise line, offering distinctive vacations on the Rhine, Rhône, Danube, Moselle, and Main rivers, earning awards for the best cuisine in European river cruising. The all-suites Riverside Mozart, Riverside Ravel, and Riverside Debussy offer the largest average suite size, all with king-size beds, the highest staff-to-guest ratio, and up to five onboard restaurants. Guests can choose active tours from a menu of Riverside Choice excursions; take out a pedal- or e-bike, stored on board, for self-guided exploration; and bask in a rejuvenating treatment in the onboard FEHI Spa. On all itineraries, the ships stay late or overnight in some of Europe’s most captivating towns and cities, so guests can immerse themselves in authentic cultures and the destination’s social life. Throughout, every member of Riverside’s exceptional staff and crew delivers intuitive and personalized service for an all-inclusive and luxurious experience.

On board, guests enjoy butler service in every suite; gourmet cuisine made with high-quality, fresh ingredients a la minute; included premium wines and spirits; complimentary StarLink broadband Wi-Fi; unlimited shore excursions to immerse in Europe’s history, cultures and landmarks; prepaid gratuities; and complimentary ground transfers.

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full itinerary, date, pricing and offer details.

*** Image courtesy of Riverside Luxury Cruises

“Free at Sea Plus” Package Returns at Norwegian Cruise Line

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 30 Dec 25 18:52:21 +0000

Releasing its winter 2027/28 deployment, Norwegian Cruise Line has also announced the return of guest-favorite ‘Free at Sea Plus’ package - offering more unlimited amenities, including premium beverages, streaming Wi-Fi, Starbucks and more beginning this winter.

The Return of ‘Free at Sea’ Unlocks Premium Perks

Beginning with Sailings Departing from Feb. 1, 2026, you can opt in for Free at Sea Plus for Additional Unlimited Perks on Starbucks, Streaming Wi-Fi, Premium Drinks and More;
For even greater value and convenience.

Free at Sea Plus takes NCL's guest-favorite Free at Sea program to the next level, giving travelers even more ways to enjoy a seamless, stress-free cruise for USD $49.99 per person per day. This enhanced offering includes unlimited Starbucks beverages, unlimited streaming Wi-Fi, wine and champagne from NCL's signature collection, bottled water and 50% discount on any additional specialty dining cover charges.

Moreover, by opting for Free at Sea Plus, guests can also indulge in unlimited open bar at Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line's private island destination in the Bahamas. Combined with Free at Sea's existing inclusions -- specialty dining, unlimited open bar onboard the ship, high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink, and shore excursion credits -- Free at Sea Plus means even fewer logistics to manage, total budget control and more time to relax.

Guests can now add Free at Sea Plus to sailings departing from Feb. 1, 2026, forward.

ASK US HOW!

New Season of Sailings Features:

Over 370 Voyages Across Nearly 50 Countries, Including Two Prima Class Ships in San Juan, Expanded Caribbean Adventures as well as Once-in-a-Lifetime Journeys in Asia, Australia and New Zealand;
Longer port stays, overnight calls, and award-winning onboard experiences;
Many Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries will visit NCL’s exclusive private island destination, Great Stirrup Cay, which will feature a new pier, an oversized heated pool, and the Great Tides Waterpark.
Spanning over 370 voyages, the new season of sailings promises sun-soaked escapes, culturally enriching adventures, and the ultimate freedom and flexibility to design a personalized vacation experience – onboard and ashore.

San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Welcome Two Award-Winning Prima Class Ships

For the first time in the cruise line's history, two of NCL's newest ships will homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, offering week-long voyages to the Southern Caribbean, with each ship offering a distinct itinerary. From Nov. 13, 2027, through April 22, 2028, Norwegian Prima will feature Saturday turnarounds and seven-day itineraries calling to Road Town (Tortola), British Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Complementing her sister ship's itineraries, Norwegian Viva will operate Sunday turnarounds from Nov. 14, 2027, through Jan. 23, 2028, with more south-bound seven-day voyages, including calls in Aruba and Curaçao, delivering vibrant cultural encounters and sun-soaked escapes.

Florida Homeports Set the Stage for Diverse Bahamas, Caribbean and Panama Canal Voyages

With seven ships departing from homeports across Florida, guests can choose from a variety of itineraries sailing to the Bahamas, the Caribbean and the Panama Canal. Many of these itineraries include a stop at NCL's signature private destination in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. The island will boast exciting upgrades and enhancements such as a new pier, an oversized heated swimming pool and Great Tides Waterpark, creating an elevated island experience that blends relaxation with adventure.

From Miami, the "Cruise Capital of the World", Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Jewel, and Norwegian Luna offer everything from short Bahamas getaways to extended Caribbean and Panama Canal voyages. Norwegian Joy will feature three- and four-day Bahamas escapes between November 2027 and April 2028, while Norwegian Jewel presents a mix of 10- and 11-day voyages to the Southern Caribbean and Panama Canal from November 2027 through January 2028. Norwegian Luna delivers seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings from October 2027 through April 2028 with Great Stirrup Cay included on every itinerary.

Departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Fla., Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Epic provide even more options. Norwegian Aqua, one of NCL's newest ships, will operate seven-day Western Caribbean cruises departing every Sunday starting in October 2027 until April 2028, visiting the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Mexico, and Great Stirrup Cay. Beginning November 2027 through March 2028, Norwegian Breakaway offers a mix of shorter four- and five-day Bahamas and Caribbean voyages, and Norwegian Epic sails seven-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries departing on Fridays.

On November 19, 2027, Norwegian Dawn will return to Jacksonville, Fla., and kick off her second season from JAXPORT. Through April 2028, the ship will sail four- and five-day Bahamas itineraries calling to Freeport, Nassau, as well as Great Stirrup Cay.

NCL Continues Year-Round Deployment from Philadelphia

After restarting cruise operations from the Port of Philadelphia in April 2026, NCL remains committed to the homeport with Norwegian Pearl sailing an exceptional selection of five- to 12-day itineraries to Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the Eastern and Southern Caribbean from the SouthPort Marine Terminal Complex between October 2027 and April 2028. The ship's Bermuda voyages include overnight stays at the Royal Naval Dockyard, while its Bahamas sailings feature calls at Jacksonville and Port Canaveral (Orlando), Fla.; Grand Bahama Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Eastern Caribbean itineraries include visits to Road Town (Tortola), British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Longer, 11- and 12-day Southern Caribbean journeys will transport guests to stunning destinations such as Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Bridgetown, Barbados; and St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda.

Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Getaway to Sail Western Caribbean Itineraries from Two Iconic Gulf Coast Cities

Between November 2027 and April 2028, two NCL ships will sail Western Caribbean voyages throughout the season, offering guests convenient departures from two iconic Gulf Coast cities. Norwegian Escape will homeport in Galveston, Texas, operating a full first season of seven-day itineraries departing every Saturday. Meanwhile, Norwegian Getaway will sail from New Orleans on Sundays, providing another flexible option for travelers. Both ships will visit some of the region's most sought-after destinations, including Cozumel, Mexico; Roatán (Islas de la Bahía), Honduras; and Harvest Caye, NCL's resort-style private destination off the Belizean coast, delivering a perfect blend of culture, adventure and relaxation.

Mexican Riviera Adventures from Los Angeles

Throughout the winter season, Norwegian Encore will sail seven-day round-trip Mexican Riviera voyages, visiting Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta. From October 2027 through April 2028, Norwegian Encore departs every Sunday from Los Angeles and will offer a plethora of activities catering to families, including a multi-level racetrack, Spice H2O adults-only lounge, and award-winning entertainment featuring live music and world-class shows.

Culturally Enriching Itineraries Across Japan and Southeast Asia

From October 2027 through April 2028, Norwegian Jade will offer nine- to 14-day itineraries departing from homeports across the region, including Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan; Seoul (Incheon), South Korea; Hong Kong and Singapore, showcasing a new city nearly every day. With Japan ranking among the world's most sought-after destinations, guests can explore over 20 distinct ports, including Okinawa, Hakodate, Kagoshima and Akita, plus enjoy an overnight stay in Kobe with enough time to visit Kyoto's temples and dive into Osaka's nightlife. Select itineraries also feature an overnight in Hong Kong, blending iconic harbour views and a vibrant culture for guests to explore. In addition, six Southeast Asia sailings between Singapore and Hong Kong will visit tropical gems such as Ko Samui, Thailand; Phu My (Ho Chi Minh City), Vietnam; Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia; and the pristine beaches of Coron and Puerto Princesa in the Philippines.

Norwegian Spirit Brings Extended Voyages and Overnight Stays to Australia and New Zealand

Norwegian Spirit will mark its fifth consecutive season in Australia and New Zealand between December 2027 through April 2028, reinforcing NCL's dedication to the region. Homeporting in Sydney, Auckland, New Zealand, and Singapore, guests can choose from itineraries spanning eight to 21 days, including NCL's debut in Esperance and overnight stays in Fremantle, Melbourne and Adelaide, Australia for deeper cultural and culinary immersion. Redesigned with a refined, adult-focused atmosphere, Norwegian Spirit offers contemporary staterooms, elevated dining and world-class entertainment - perfect for couples and seasoned travelers seeking an upscale escape.

About Norwegian Cruise Line

Over the past 6 decades, Norwegian Cruise Line has revolutionized cruising by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. With award-winning entertainment, globally inspired dining and thoughtfully designed accommodations, including solo staterooms, Club Balcony Suites, and The Haven, the brand's exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept, NCL, ensures every guest enjoys a seamless and personalized journey.

Norwegian’s signature Free at Sea package provides added benefits and inclusions such as unlimited open bar, specialty dining credits, high-speed Wi-Fi, shore excursions credits; and with select sailings, guests can enjoy free airfare as well as third and fourth guests sail free.

NCL’s fleet of 20 contemporary ships sails to nearly 350 of the world's most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company's private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize.

***Terms & Conditions apply; ask for full itinerary, date and pricing details.

*** Images courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line.

Cuisine to Caftans: Latest Cultural Heritage of Humanity Listings Inspire Travel

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Sat, 13 Dec 25 01:01:04 +0000

For the first time, a country’s entire cuisine has been recognized as part of the “Intangible Cultural Heritage” of humanity. It was an astonishing moment at the announcement of UNESCO’s 2025 listings that annually celebrate living cultural traditions – and highlight them for support to ensure they remain alive.

You may be most familiar with UNESCO World Heritage sites: famous monuments or natural wonders. But intangible cultural heritage designations are different. From foodways to festivals, music to fashion, endangered crafts to social customs, this annual recognition doesn’t just protect heritage; it celebrates the ways communities express identity, creativity, authenticity and continuity in a rapidly changing world.

2025’s New Intangible Cultural Heritage Listings

Announced in New Delhi in early December, the latest round of designations inspires us to explore and experience the heartbeat of cultures across all corners of the world.

Culinary Traditions

Italian Cuisine – Italy (pictured, top)

In the biggest headline of the listings, UNESCO has finally said what the world already knew: Italian cuisine is a global treasure and cultural masterpiece. It’s a historic first for any national cuisine.

The designation covers more than a set of recipes. It recognizes the everyday traditions behind Italian home cooking, including:

Communal meals: sharing food, nurturing family and social ties
Generational ties: with unique knowledge passed down in families and communities
Cultural identity: where cuisine and dining are symbols of Italian heritage and lifestyle

The next time you’re indulging in Italy, you can rest assured you are tasting identity, geography, and centuries of culinary artistry.

Koshary Food Culture – Egypt

Egypt’s ultimate comfort dish, koshary, is hearty, chaotic, and absolutely beloved. Layers of lentils, rice, pasta, spice, and crispy onions are everyday Egyptian life in a bowl.

Festivals & Social Practices

Deepavali (Diwali Festival of Lights) – India

A celebration that turns entire cities into constellations, Deepavali is India at its most luminous, literally. This festival stitches together family rituals, sweet-making marathons, sparkling markets, and the warm glow of a million oil lamps in a uniquely Indian blend of spirituality and spectacle.

Music & Dance Traditions

Compas / Konpa Music – Haiti

This Haitian heartbeat blends guitars, horns, and irresistible rhythms that make even the shyest listener sway. Compas isn’t just music—it’s movement, joy, and cultural pride wrapped into every note. Travelers will find it echoing from beach bars to late-night dance floors and welcome committees at cruise ports, inviting visitors to learn the steps and feel Haiti’s spirit in motion.

Textile, Fashion & Craftsmanship

Moroccan Caftan – Morocco

Rich fabrics, hand-stitched embroidery, and centuries-old artistry—Morocco’s caftan is wearable heritage. Whether shimmering in Marrakech’s souks or worn at celebrations, each caftan tells a story of generational craftsmanship. For travelers, exploring ateliers or watching artisans at work offers a beautifully intimate glimpse into Morocco’s cultural elegance.

Traditional Saree Weaving Art of Tangail – Bangladesh

Delicate, intricate, and endlessly expressive, Tangail sarees are woven poetry. Travelers exploring weaving villages will hear the rhythmic clack of looms long before they arrive—a soundscape of heritage. Each saree reflects community identity and craftsmanship, turning a simple length of fabric into living culture.

Traditional Crafts

Dong Ho Folk Painting Craft – Vietnam

These vibrant woodblock prints once decorated Vietnamese homes during the Lunar New Year, each image carrying symbolic good fortune. Today, fewer artisans remain, making this tradition especially precious and designated as a cultural practice that needs urgent protection. Travelers to Bac Ninh province can meet the remaining masters, watch pigments mixed from natural materials, and see how a centuries-old craft colors Vietnam’s cultural story.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

Jamaica Asking Visitors to Return as Island Reopens Following Hurricane Melissa

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Sat, 13 Dec 25 01:00:48 +0000

Visitors are crucial to local communities as they recover following October’s Hurricane Melissa, the strongest ever recorded storm to hit the country, with devastating results. The focus now is rebuilding Jamaica’s tourism-based economy and getting people back to work.

That’s where we come in.

Jamaica is back open for business this winter. So you can plan a tropical, Caribbean escape to the island just when you need it most - and Jamaica needs us most.

Maybe even give the gift of travel this holiday season, with double the happiness quotient: for your loved ones, and for the people of Jamaica.

In early December 2025, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism provided an update on the country’s recovery:

Jamaica’s 3 international airports have returned to over 85% of pre-Melissa capacity, ready for the winter season.
And 70% of Jamaica’s hotel rooms will be back in operation by January, after intensive repairs and renovations.

Sandals Resorts International, founded in Jamaica, and one of the biggest resort companies in the country, released its own update, with good news for fans of Sandals’ and Beaches’ all-inclusive resort experiences for couples and families.

In a major step forward for Jamaica’s recovery, Sandals reopened five of its Jamaica properties on December 6, 2025.

Sandals Dunn's River,
Sandals Royal Plantation,
Sandals Ochi,
Sandals Negril and
Beaches Negril are all welcoming guests back to Jamaica's famed north coast.

Sandals Resorts International’s Executive Chairman, Adam Stewart, noted that not only are flights returning from around the world to Jamaica, but also that “Tours and attractions, including the iconic Dunn's River Falls, Negril's famed Seven Mile Beach and Mystic Mountain for fans of Jamaican bobsledding, are all ready and waiting for you."

To reassure travelers that they are ready for guests, the company hosted hundreds of travel advisors and industry partners at Sandals Dunn’s River in Ocho Rios, since, as Stewart says, "Seeing is believing." said Stewart. "And nothing beats the real thing, putting your toes in the sand, tasting the food, feeling the sunshine on your face. Only a genuine experience can offer confidence like that."

Family-run in Jamaica in 1981, Sandals Resorts has deep roots in its home country, where Stewart celebrated the opening of these hotels. "Our guests love this island, and when they come back, they'll feel that same magic the moment they arrive. Jamaica is ready to welcome them home."

Reports say that other Sandals properties in Jamaica, including

Sandals Montego Bay,
Sandals Royal Caribbean, and
Sandals South Coast are expected to open in Spring 2026.

Sandals Foundation’s Role in Jamaican Recovery

Following Hurricane Melissa, the company’s Sandals Foundation led extensive relief efforts in Jamaica, distributing essential supplies (water, food, hygiene kits, building materials) to communities, supporting hospitals and assisting with medical evacuations, providing community aid including setting up kitchen hubs for hot meals, helping fishing communities and supporting mental health initiatives, while also undertaking long-term projects for environmental restoration (like coral reefs) and community rebuilding.

More About Sandals and Beaches Resorts

Pioneers of the all-inclusive vacation experience in the region, Sandals has 17 beachfront all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, The Bahamas, Saint Lucia, Barbados, Antigua, Curaçao, Grenada, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, each reflecting the genuine vibe of its island home. From local food favorites and global flavors to butler service and signature suites, including the Caribbean's first Overwater Villas, Sandals makes it easy for guests to go all in on vacation mode. Beyond the resort gates, immersive destination experiences, like a newly piloted Island Inclusive dining program and MINI Coopers for island exploration, raise the bar on the all-inclusive vacation.

Beaches Resorts is the Caribbean playground where families can live their best island life. With all-inclusive family resorts in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica, and soon-to-come locations in Barbados and The Bahamas, Beaches offers fun-forward family all-inclusive vacations - from a dynamic selection of restaurants and vibrant food trucks to all-you-can-enjoy water sports, live shows and epic water parks. Kids discover magic with Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street®, Kids Camps, and hangouts for teens, while parents enjoy peace of mind with certified nannies, engaging programming and multi-bedroom villas perfect for bringing generations together. As an Advanced Certified Autism Center (CAC) through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), Beaches staff are specially trained to understand and cater to the unique needs of neurodivergent guests, so that every member of the family finds joy, connection, and memories made to last a lifetime.

START YOUR TRIP!

Image of Sandals Dunn’s River courtesy of Sandals Resorts International

NEW Roam by Tauck Launches 2026 Journeys in 9 Countries; Adds More for 2027

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Sat, 13 Dec 25 01:00:26 +0000

The unique, new Tauck brand for travelers in their 40s and 50s expands with more curated, small-group journeys. In addition to its inaugural 5 journeys debuting in 2026, Roam by Tauck is adding 7 more itineraries for 2027, delivering flexible, small-group travel with Tauck’s signature access, choice, and expertise.

The journeys are designed for travelers who lead dynamic, fast-paced lives and want a guided experience that still feels personal, less structured, and yet entirely effortless – the ultimate luxury experience. Roam by Tauck delivers the balance of premium experiences and the freedom to explore, with Tauck’s built-in expertise.

First departures begin August 2026.

THE ROAM BY TAUCK DIFFERENCE

Every Roam by Tauck journey features VIP access to experiences typically not available to most independent travelers, supported by Tauck’s global network of longstanding partners. These journeys also include Signature Moments that serve as highlights throughout each itinerary, creating immersive shared group experiences guests will remember long after returning home. Guests enjoy one-of-a-kind stays with premium amenities and on-site activities.

Averaging just 16 guests, the brand’s distinctive "half-on, half-off" philosophy balances curated group experiences with flexibility and free time. Designed for travelers seeking more independence, Roam by Tauck builds in unguided moments away from the group and more active experiences for those who want to feel challenged.

ASK US ABOUT THIS EXCITING NEW LUXURY TRAVEL OPTION!

5 ROAM BY TAUCK JOURNEYS DEBUTING IN 2026:

Mexico City & San Miguel de Allende is a seven-day itinerary celebrating the art, culture and cuisine of Mexico’s capital and the timeless beauty and thriving arts scene of San Miguel de Allende. Guests can tailor their pace and explore Mexico City through curated options, such as an e-bike ride through Roma and Condesa, a taco-tasting walk, or time in top contemporary galleries. In San Miguel de Allende, guests will enjoy hands-on experiences like a private cooking class, a guided market visit, or an artisan studio tour with local makers. Accommodations include a three-night stay at Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel, ranked #13 on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice list of the “Best Hotels in the World.” Along the way, guests will experience Signature Moments such as a sunrise balloon flight over the pyramids of Teotihuacan.

(From $7,490 USD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).

Bordeaux & The Dordogne is an eight-day journey blending Bordeaux’s urban vibrancy, the wine country of Saint-Émilion, and the rustic charm of the Dordogne. Guests explore farmers’ markets, medieval lanes, and prehistoric caves; canoe the Dordogne beneath soaring châteaux; and enjoy tastings in some of France’s most celebrated wine regions. Accommodations include the five-star Mondrian Bordeaux Les Carmes, a sleek, design-forward hotel by Philippe Starck, and the tranquil countryside retreat of Le Moulin du Roc. A dedicated day is set aside for guests to explore independently with a private car and driver, visiting nearby villages, scenic gardens, enchanting castles and more, guided by personalized recommendations from their Roam Director.

(From $7,990 USD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).

San Sebastián & Rioja is a seven-day coast-to-vineyard journey through Spain’s Basque Country, combining active discovery and indulgence. Highlights include a private salt-valley experience in the Valley of Añana and biking through the vineyards of Rioja with time to enjoy siestas and spa experiences at the acclaimed Frank Gehry–designed Hotel Marqués de Riscal. Signature Moments feature walking the Camino trail along the Cantabrian Sea, an exclusive vineyard visit, and a dinner prepared by a Michelin-starred chef.

(From $6,990 USD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).

Prague & The Danube is a 10-day land-and-river journey spanning five countries and combining the cultural allure of Prague with an active voyage along the Danube to Budapest. Highlights include a guided walk through the storybook lanes of Český Krumlov, a bike tour through Vienna, and a local wine tavern evening in Austria’s Wachau Valley. Guests enjoy two nights in Prague at The Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel, before boarding the ms Savor for a seven-night cruise. A Signature Moment includes a private waltz lesson at Vienna’s Palais Pallavicini, led by instructors from the famed Elmayer Dance School.

(From $7,690 USD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).

Porto & The Douro Valley come alive on this eight-day river cruise aboard ms Andorinha, designed for exploring Portugal’s golden Douro. Guests enjoy flexible days in Porto, choosing a port-focused walking tour or food-tasting walk before optional surfing on the Atlantic or a scenic bike ride along the river. As the journey continues upriver, highlights include visits to renowned quintas for wine tastings, a culinary evening at DOC hosted by a Michelin-starred chef, and immersive cultural and nature experiences throughout the valley. A Signature Moment features a private night visit to the prehistoric rock art sites of the Côa Valley, an exclusive after-hours experience that brings Portugal’s ancient heritage to life.

(From $6,390 USD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).

WHAT'S INCLUDED

All Roam by Tauck journeys are expertly guided and cover all accommodations, airport transfers upon arrival and departure, luggage handling, all gratuities, taxes, fees and more.

Independent time is built into each itinerary for guests to explore as they choose, and any personal excursions are typically not included unless otherwise indicated.

LOOKING AHEAD: 7 MORE TOURS IN 2027

The additional tours take Roam by Tauck to new corners of the globe across six continents. Itineraries include

Iceland By Land & Sea;
Golden Gate & Wine Country;
Florence & The Tuscan Hills;
New Zealand: North & South;
Rome, Sicily & Malta;
Bern & The Matterhorn;
South Africa & Mozambique; and
Tokyo, Kyoto & The Seto Inland Sea.

Full details and itineraries for these journeys will be available in spring 2026.

More About Tauck

Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, Tauck has been family-owned for four generations. The company is a world leader in upscale guided travel, with more than 170 land itineraries, safaris, river cruises, small ship ocean cruises, and family travel adventures across 70+ countries and all seven continents and has multiple awards.

Images courtesy of Tauck

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