Wrestling Cruise Feed

Best of New Zealand - Sept 2027 - Globus

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Sheep indeed outnumber people in New Zealand five to one, but lucky for ewe, this untamed land also boasts an impressive number of soaring mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning fiords. The North Island’s Bay of Islands sets the stage for the abundance of spectacular sights you’ll see on both of New Zealand’s breathtaking islands. Rotorua’s shooting geysers are only surpassed by the South Island’s soaring Southern Alps, which you’ll reach from charming Christchurch by way of the scenic TranzAlpine train. Throughout your tour of New Zealand, you’ll have the opportunity to admire incredible views of the Franz Josef Glacier, warm your toes in natural hot springs, and partake in all of the fun that Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World,” has to offer. With so many ways to work up an appetite, you’ll appreciate a special barbecue on a local farm and dinner at a New Zealand family’s home. On this 14-day tour, you’ll discover the best of New Zealand from top to bottom.

Globus All Access - Special features included in this tour:

Orientation tour of Auckland
Visit to the Waitangi Treaty House
Sightseeing cruise to Hole in the Rock in Bay of Islands
Guided visits to the National Kiwi Hatchery and Te Puia
Meet a local New Zealand family and enjoy dinner in their home
Farm-to-table lunch and sheep-shearing demonstration at a local farm
Guided sightseeing in Wellington with a cable-car ride on Mount Victoria
Scenic ride on the TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass
Guided walk to the Franz Josef Glacier viewpoint
Wine tasting at Gibbston Valley Winery
Excursion to Fiordland National Park with scenic cruise on the famous Milford Sound
Gondola ride to Bob’s Peak in Queenstown with dinner
Intra-vacation flight from Wellington to Christchurch

Australia & New Zealand - Viking 2027

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Discover the wonders of Oceania

Gain a deep understanding of the native and European influences that shape Australia and New Zealand. Learn about Australia’s penal past from a descendant of its first settlers. See the Victorian treasures of Dunedin, the fragrant English gardens of Christchurch and the art deco glories of Napier. Enjoy the sounds of the didgeridoo and watch the captivating dances of the Māori as you immerse yourself in the rich heritage of these southern lands.

18-Day Tropical Highlights - Tour 2A - Royal Princess

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Princess Standard fare includes:

MedallionClass® experience: Enjoy effortless, personalized cruising: your stateroom unlocking as you approach, next-level service, easily finding family & friends while on board and so much more.
Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, themed activities, game shows and performers
Dining: Multicourse dining, buffet, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, soft-serve ice cream, pastries and desserts
Fitness facilities: Youth & teen clubs for ages 3-17

14-Day Australia & New Zealand - Holland America

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Awaken your sense of wonder on a cruise from Sydney to Auckland. Bask in the beauty of Fiordland National Park, admire Napier’s Art Deco downtown, and explore Picton’s stunning beaches.

Onboard: Noordan

Australia & New Zealand: Dusky Sound & Melbourne - Norwegian

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Set sail on a spellbinding 11-day vacation, beginning in Auckland's sparkling harbour and concluding on Sydney's vibrant shores. In Tauranga, New Zealand's coastal beauty greets you with golden beaches and the geothermal marvels of nearby Rotorua, where bubbling mud pools and steaming hot springs captivate the senses. Continue south to Lyttleton, a charming port city where Victorian architecture meets modern flair. Discover the scenic Canterbury Plains and the breathtaking landscapes of Banks Peninsula. Cross the Tasman Sea to Melbourne, Australia's cultural capital, where hidden laneways, trendy cafes, and the lush Royal Botanic Gardens await. Each stop unveils a tapestry of natural wonders and culture, promising an unforgettable journey across land and sea.

New Zealand

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is an island country consisting of two main land masses, the North and South Islands, and over six hundred smaller islands. New Zealand’s 269,055 square kilometers of land is home to over 4.5 million people, more than 50 volcanoes, and a diverse landscape of snow-capped mountains, rocky shores, and rolling pastures.

The Māori people arrived to New Zealand around 1,000 A.D., traveling by canoe from Polynesian islands near Tahiti. The rich cultural history of New Zealand is sure to fascinate any traveler and be a special treat to any visiting history buffs.

New Zealand’s natural beauty extends beyond just its breathtaking landscapes. Because of its distance from any nearby landmasses, the country is home to many animal species not seen anywhere else in the world. Nearly all of New Zealand’s land animals are birds, and many of these species have lost their ability to fly. Bats are the only land mammals to have made the ocean crossing to the island. Also finding its home on the island, the giant Weta is a relative of the cricket that weighs three times more than a mouse and is considered one of the world's heaviest insects. Along the islands' coasts, you can find both pilot and humpback whales that visit on their way to breed, orcas, and dolphins also frequent the waters surrounding New Zealand’s coasts.

Sports fans can catch a game of Rugby, one of the most popular sports among the island’s residents. Other one-of-a-kind activities include glacier hiking, kayaking to Cathedral Cove, and exploring the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Film enthusiasts might enjoy a tour of the Hobbiton Movie set where the famous Lord of the Rings movie was filmed, or a visit to one of the many other filming locations for the movie around the island.

With endless options and opportunities, planning a trip to beautiful New Zealand can be overwhelming. We have put together a few of our favourite trips and tours below. If none of those spark your interest, reach out to one of our travel consultants today, and we can find you the perfect vacation!

Treasures of New Zealand: Heritage, Vines, & Vistas - Nov 2026 - Globus

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour of New Zealand! While it’s true that sheep outnumber people in New Zealand five to one, lucky for ewe, you’ll enjoy a Small Group experience to discover this untamed land brimming with an impressive number of soaring mountains, lush rainforests, and stunning fiords.

New Zealand’s North Island sets the stage for the abundance of spectacular sights you’ll see on both of the country’s breathtaking islands. Rotorua’s shooting geysers and boiling mud pools are only surpassed by some of the coolest fiord scenery in the world in the South Island’s Milford Sound. Throughout your tour of New Zealand, you’ll have the opportunity to admire beautiful gardens during high tea in Hamilton, cheers over a glass of wine in the famous Marlborough vineyards, search for whales and other marine life along the Pacific east coast, and witness Te Anau’s glittering glowworm caves. With so many ways to work up an appetite, you’ll appreciate a special lunch at a local farm, a progressive walking dinner tour highlighting the Māori culture, and a boisterous farewell dinner in the high country. A Small Group Discovery tour to awaken the senses, naturally and culturally!

Globus All Access - Special features included in this tour:

Guided city sightseeing of Auckland with guided visit to the All Blacks Experience
Guided walking tour of Hamilton Gardens with high-tea lunch overlooking the Mansfield Garden
Guided tour of the Hobbiton movie set including a beverage at the Green Dragon Inn
Visits to the National Kiwi Hatchery and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Māori hangi dinner and cultural performance at Te Pā Tū
Wine tasting in Marlborough wine country
Whale-watching cruise off the coast of Kaikoura
Walking dinner tour featuring local cuisine in Christchurch
Cruise across Lake Te Anau with visit to the Glowworm Grotto
Excursion to Fiordland National Park with scenic cruise on the famous Milford Sound
Jetboat ride on the Waiau River with visit and lunch at a local farm
Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm with TSS Earnslaw cruise

Lord of the Rings Road Trip: Explore Middle Earth - Goway

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Highlights:

Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand, exploring harbours, volcanic cones, and vibrant waterfront streets.
Drive via Matamata’s Hobbiton and Waitomo Glowworm Caves to Rotorua’s geothermal and cultural wonders.
Continue past Lake Taupo into Tongariro National Park, viewing Mt Ruapehu’s dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Cross Cook Strait by ferry to Picton, then on to artful Nelson and Punakaiki’s famous Pancake Rocks.
Travel down the West Coast to Franz Josef Glacier, then finish in Queenstown’s film locations and adventure paradise.

Trip Includes:

13 nights first-class accommodation
Car rental for 14 days with unlimited kilometers and mandatory vehicle insurance
Inter-Island ferry crossing for passengers

Trip Excludes:

Travel insurance
International, domestic airfare & airfare taxes
Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
Gratuities
Optional excursions
Items of a personal nature
Passport & Visa fees, if applicable

New Zealand - 11 Night - Celebrity Edge - March 2027

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Sydney, Australia - Milford Sound, New Zealand - Doubtful Sound - Dusky Sound - Dunedin, New Zealand - Christchurch, New Zealand - Tauranga, New Zealand - Auckland, New Zealand - Sydney, Australia

Edge Class with Infinite Verandah
from $5,339
Includes Taxes+Fees
Category: E2

*Includes Beverage Package and Wifi!

15 Day New Zealand Cruise - Princess Jan 2028

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Round Trip from Sydney, Australia

Enjoy extra days for one of Princess' most immersive New Zealand cruises in 2028, visiting both the North and South Islands, including Fiordland National Park, Tauranga, and Bay of Islands.

Savings above the cruise line's listed public rates in both Canadian and US currency.

GROUP BONUS PERKS INCLUDE:

$50 AUD onboard credit per cabin
Bottle of wine
Surprise treats delivered to your stateroom

EXCLUSIVE GROUP RATES

Balcony from: $3085 CAD or $2269 USD category BF
Mini Suite from: $3820 CAD or $2809 USD category ME

Pricing is per person, based on double occupancy and includes all taxes & fees

Australia and New Zealand: Surf Camps & Kiwi Highlights - GAdventures

Mon, 01 Jun 26 14:38:59 +0000

Get ready for a 16-day thrill ride through Australia and New Zealand's must-see spots. Dive into Māori culture on New Zealand’s North Island, and feel the rush with a surf lesson and kayaking adventure. Then, hop over to Australia to fine-tune those surf skills at Spot X surf camp. Don’t miss the chance for a close encounter with your fuzzy new friends — the koalas. This is the ultimate Oceania bucket list adventure.

What’s included

Accommodation Hostels (14 nts, multi-share with 4-8 people). **All nights are multi-share on this trip.
Meals Included: 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
Transport: private vehicle, bus, boat, kayak, train, walking.
Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Hands-On Moment: Surf Lesson, Raglan
Your Big Night Out Moment: Wellington
Your Hands-On Moment: Surfing Lesson, Spot X
Your Discover Moment: Byron Bay.
Sea kayaking excursion (Raglan).
Maori cultural experience.
Huka Falls.
Lake Taupo Sailboat Trip.
Ferry to Manly.
Sydney orientation walk.
Kangaroo Trek.
Cape Byron Lighthouse Visit.
Daisy Hill Koala Centre.
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

The Extras

Your flight. Call us, we can help.
Auckland Sailing: America's Cup Experience (Pre Tour)From $121 USD - Optional activity (pre-bookable).
Byron Bay Ocean KayakingFrom $63 USD - Optional activity (pre-bookable).
Meal Budget Allow USD 380-495 for meals not included.

Keeping Time: Why a Timepiece is Still the Best Souvenir of Switzerland

Fri, 29 May 26 22:43:34 +0000

For more than 400 years, Switzerland has been the world’s watchmaking and time-keeping capital. And unlike many luxury industries in other countries that outsourced production decades ago, the most respected Swiss watch brands are still made in Switzerland — often by hand, often in the same valleys and communities where the craft was born.

That makes a Swiss watch or clock not only an investment in precision timekeeping and prestigious personal style, but also a truly authentic and heirloom-quality memento of a visit to Switzerland.

Now, when it comes to souvenir shopping, I'm firmly in the ‘consumables’ camp: something you can eat or drink or share when you get home. But something useful that also represents timeless craftsmanship and will last forever? That is the kind of souvenir I can get behind. Especially when it's wearable every day!

I know we are bombarded with opportunities to treat ourselves to luxurious Swiss timepieces at every turn: from chic boutiques in shopping centers, on cruise ships, and in airports, to online. But here’s why: actually going to Switzerland and immersing yourself in its horological history and culture – then buying that statement watch from the source! – will give you a lot more satisfaction – and something to talk about! - than a simple store transaction.

The Birth of a ‘Quiet’ Luxury Industry

The story of Swiss watchmaking began almost accidentally in the 16th century. Mechanical clocks and then portable timepieces had been developed in the late mediaeval period in other European countries.

It was when Protestant reformer John Calvin banned the display of jewelry and luxurious ‘excess’ in Geneva that local goldsmiths and jewelers quickly pivoted to an alternative product to save their businesses. Useful and practical watches were the perfect workaround to the restrictions.

Inadvertently, Calvin’s ‘sumptuary laws’ ended up launching Switzerland as the grandfather of the industrialization, precision, artistry, and global standardization of watchmaking. And set the country on the road towards being the undisputed home of the most luxurious and prestigious timekeeping brands.

By the 1700s, watchmaking had spread into the Swiss Jura Mountains, where long winters kept farming families indoors for months at a time. Tiny workshops producing gears, springs, enamel dials, and cases emerged across western Switzerland. Entire villages specialized in microscopic components assembled elsewhere into finished timepieces.

The geography mattered. Swiss watchmaking evolved in relative isolation, encouraging highly specialized expertise and obsessive precision. By the 19th century, Swiss makers dominated international exhibitions and world timing competitions. Railroads, shipping, science, and later aviation and sporting events all required increasingly accurate timekeeping — and Switzerland set the global benchmark.

Watch This!

Made-in-Switzerland marques remain global cultural touchpoints and symbols of success, as much as luxury products such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, Breitling, and TAG Heuer. Even disruptor Swatch has populist Swiss chic.

A trip to Switzerland lets you actually see how mechanical watches are still made in ‘factory towns’ that are pilgrimage sites for timekeeping fans.

In Switzerland’s ‘Watch Valley’ — the informal name for Switzerland’s watchmaking corridor — you’ll find factory tours and museum experiences tied to legendary brands. Don’t miss the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva that traces five centuries of horology. Or the UNESCO-listed town of La Chaux-de-Fonds, where urban planning itself reflects the watch industry, with streets and workshops designed to maximize natural light for microscopic watch assembly.

Time Travel

In an era when luxury branding and souvenirs are often disconnected from manufacturing reality, Swiss watches remain the real deal. A ‘Swiss Made’ label carries strict requirements including movement manufacturing, assembly, and inspection inside Switzerland.

You know that treating yourself to a Swiss mechanical watch is not about telling time in an era when your phone has taken over that role. Instead, Swiss watches purchased at their source represent an indelible sense of place alongside engineering, heritage, craftsmanship, and increasingly, permanence in a disposable age.

START YOUR TRIP!

Image: Getty

Do You Know Your Mediterranean A, B… Seas?

Fri, 29 May 26 22:43:33 +0000

When is the Med… not just the Med? The Mediterranean Sea and its iconic coastal towns, yacht harbors, fishing villages, beaches, cliffs, and cultural touchpoints are on nearly everyone’s list of favorite escapes. But – pop quiz - did you know that the Mediterranean isn’t just one sea?

In reality, it’s a collection of smaller seas that developed independently and were named before the full region was charted by ancient navigators. Ultimately, they were stitched together by ancient trade routes, empire-building, mythology, culture, cuisines, and coastlines. Travel across the Med, and you’re not cruising a single body of water. You’re crossing distinct maritime worlds, each with its own personality, history - even color palette and weather!

How many Mediterranean ‘seas within a sea’ can you name? How many could you point out on a map? There are at least a dozen! Here are the 5 most famous and noteworthy:

1. The Adriatic Sea

Tucked between Italy and the Balkan coast, the Adriatic Sea may be the Mediterranean’s most elegant subsea. Venetian merchants once ruled these waters, leaving behind a trail of bell towers, marble squares and fortified ports from Venice to Dubrovnik. The Adriatic is narrower and calmer than the rest of the Mediterranean, making it ideal for yacht cruising and smaller-ship itineraries. Its eastern coastline, especially along Croatia and Montenegro, is deeply indented with coves, islands, and medieval stone towns.

(Venice Image: Lynn Elmhirst)

2. The Aegean Sea

South and to the east: the unmistakably Greek Aegean Sea (pictured, top, Getty Images). By cruise ship, yacht or ferry, go island-hopping and discover civilizations that shaped the Western world. The Aegean is scattered with thousands of islands, though only a fraction are inhabited. Santorini is the one everyone pictures first, but smaller islands reveal how diverse the Aegean really is. The sea itself tends toward striking cobalt blues against the stark whites of villages under blazing sun.

3. The Ligurian Sea

South of France, another “sea within the Mediterranean Sea” has a glamorous reputation more famous than its name. Did you know the Italian Riviera and the Côte d’Azur are technically on the Ligurian Sea? This is the heart of the chic ‘Mediterranean’ lifestyle, where villages evolved into playgrounds for aristocrats, artists and billionaires. Portofino, Monaco, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez all front these waters. Behind the polished marinas, the Ligurian coast is breathtakingly vertical, with rocky cliffs, terraced hillsides, fishing villages and some of Europe’s most dramatic coastal rail routes. This is also where Mediterranean beach culture as we know it was born.

(Monaco Image: Lynn Elmhirst)

4. The Tyrrhenian Sea

The Tyrrhenian Sea, off Italy’s western coast, is the heart of the cinematic Mediterranean. Rome, Naples, Capri, Sicily, Sardinia, and the Amalfi Coast all face the sea where ancient Greeks and Romans battled. Volcanoes still shape the horizon, and underwater archaeology continues to uncover shipwrecks from empires that once dominated the known world. Travelers crossing the Tyrrhenian quickly understand how deeply Italy’s identity is tied to the sea — from seafood markets in Naples to Stromboli’s volcanic silhouette rising from the water at night.

(Sardinia Image: Getty)

5. The Balearic Sea

Then there’s the Balearic Sea around the Spanish islands of Mallorca/ Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. Your first thoughts may go to Ibiza’s famous party culture, but explore beyond: Menorca preserves quiet coves and prehistoric stone sites; Mallorca combines mountain villages with sophisticated food culture; Ibiza, despite its nightlife fame, has become a serious wellness and luxury destination. All infused with Spanish island culture.

(Mallorca Image: Getty)

Remembering the mosaic of the Mediterranean’s seas is the clue to why we love to return to its shores again and again. From the Straits of Gibraltar on its Western gateway, to Biblical shores at the Eastern end, the Mediterranean reveals worlds of travel appeal.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

Images as noted

Star Clippers’ 'Celebrate the Holiday Season at Sea' Special Offer

Fri, 29 May 26 22:43:33 +0000

Discover the romance of tall ship sailing with Star Clippers for memorable Christmas and New Year's holidays. Trade winter weather for warm breezes, uncrowded natural beauty and the romance of true tall ship sailing with Star Clippers’ collection of holiday sailings for the 2026-2027 winter season. From Caribbean island hopping to tropical escapes along the coastlines of Costa Rica and Panama, Star Clippers offers a relaxed and intimate way to spend Christmas and ring in the New Year aboard authentic sailing vessels.

The company’s three true clipper ships – Royal Clipper, Star Clipper and Star Flyer – will sail a variety of festive itineraries throughout December and early January, combining beachside celebrations, local holiday traditions and the unique atmosphere that only a sailing ship can provide. Guests can expect open-air deck parties, holiday dinners, island excursions, and the unforgettable sight of giant white sails unfurled against warm Caribbean skies.

Special Offer Details

Book by June 30, 2026, and
Get a USD 400 / CAD 500 per stateroom air or cruise fare credit and a bottle of Champagne!
Applies to select Christmas and New Year’s 2026-2027 Star Clippers sailings

Featured Holiday Sailings

7-night Windward Islands Christmas Cruise aboard 227-guest Royal Clipper, departing round-trip from Barbados on December 19, 2026.

Recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest five-masted full-rigged sailing ship in service, the Royal Clipper will call on ports throughout the Grenadines and Windward Islands. On December 21, the charming four-masted Star Flyer joins the Royal Clipper to sail alongside each other towards Cabrits, where guests can visit orchid-festooned rainforests, waterfalls, and a bubbling lake. In St. Lucia, travelers can enjoy peaceful beaches, water sports, or cultural discoveries. A morning visit to St. Kitts allows guests to shop in colorful Basseterre, play golf, and tour old plantation houses. Guests can celebrate Christmas Day surrounded by the turquoise waters of Martinique while enjoying the spacious teak decks and elegant onboard atmosphere that define the Star Clippers experience.

Rates begin at $2,080 (CAD $2,560) per person, double occupancy.

7-night Leeward Islands Christmas Cruise offers a festive Caribbean escape departing round-trip from St. Maarten on December 19, 2026.

Carrying just 166 guests, Star Flyer recreates the golden age of sailing while offering modern comforts and relaxed luxury. The itinerary includes stops in St. Barts, Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Martinique, blending French Caribbean charm with secluded beaches and colorful island culture. Chic boutiques and waterfront cafes lure the guests in St. Barts’ Gustavia while Antigua’s Falmouth Harbor evokes the ancient presence of Admiral Nelson, with marinas, old inns, venerable pubs and convivial crowds of sun-tanned yacht crews - the epicenter of the Caribbean yachting world. Evenings onboard feature sunset cocktails beneath the ship’s towering sails.

Fares start at $2,010 (CAD $2,480).

7-night Panama-to-Costa Rica Christmas sailing departs on December 19, 2026.

Guests aboard the 166-passenger Star Clipper will visit destinations such as Isla Tortuga and the Pearl Islands, areas known for their lush rainforests, quiet beaches, and wildlife-rich waters. In Costa Rica’s Isla Tortuga, travelers can kayak through calm bays, snorkel among tropical fish or unwind on white-sand beaches shaded by palms. In Panama’s Pearl Islands, considered among the best deep-sea fishing grounds in the world, guests may spot dolphins and exotic birdlife while exploring secluded coves and untouched shorelines.

Prices start at $2,010 (CAD $2,480).

In addition to holiday-specific departures, Star Clippers will also offer the same sailings for New Year’s:

Royal Clipper’s Grenadine Islands New Year’s Cruise sails round-trip from Barbados on December 26, 2026 (US $2,280 / CAD $2,760);
Star Flyer’s Treasure Islands New Year’s Cruise departs from St. Maarten the same day (US $2,210 / CAD $2,680); and
Star Clipper sails out of Panama on December 26 for a Central American New Year’s (US $2,210 / CAD $2,680).

All itineraries feature festive onboard celebrations, island beach gatherings and relaxed sailing through some of the Caribbean’s most picturesque waters.

More About Star Clippers

For more than 35 years, Star Clippers has been introducing travelers to the thrill of modern tall-ship sailing to remote ports in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Central America. Its fleet of three authentic clipper ships—Star Clipper, Star Flyer, and Royal Clipper—offers a unique alternative to conventional cruising, combining the romance of the golden age of sailing with modern amenities and exceptional service. Carrying just 166 to 227 guests, the ships feature expansive teak decks, open-air dining, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.

Unlike traditional mega-ships, Star Clippers vessels are designed to deliver an authentic sailing experience with fewer passengers, open bridge policies, and itineraries focused on smaller ports and hidden harbors. Guests can climb the mast platform, help raise the sails, enjoy complimentary watersports directly from the marina platform, and experience the simple pleasures of sailing powered by the wind whenever possible.

*** Images courtesy of Star Clippers

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

When Your Overwater Bungalow Sails with You in Tahiti: Paul Gauguin Cruises' Room Tour

Fri, 29 May 26 22:43:33 +0000

It’s a tropical vacation fantasy: staying in an overwater bungalow over breathtaking, warm, turquoise waters in the legendary and romantic South Pacific. But what if your overwater bungalow floats with you to a new, incredible destination every day?

That’s one of the best reasons to experience the Islands of Tahiti and French Polynesia with Paul Gauguin Cruises.

The Paul Gauguin IS your floating overwater bungalow in the fabled South Seas. With mesmerizing early morning sail-ins and romantic sunset sailaways from the emerald green cliffs and picturesque lagoons of places you’ve visited in your dreams: Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea and beyond.

From an overwater bungalow, you gaze out onto the incredible seas of Polynesia. From your veranda aboard the Paul Gauguin, you gaze onto the thatched roofs, palm-dappled untouched beaches, steep jungles, and vivid colors of the islands and their surrounding seas.

WATCH THE VIDEO: Room Tour aboard the Paul Gauguin.

For over a quarter of a century, the Paul Gauguin has called French Polynesia home. Designed in every respect specifically to sail into the quiet coves and shallow lagoons of the islands of the South Pacific, she is part of the seascape and culture of Tahiti and French Polynesian travel.

Like a cherished heritage inn, she has undergone frequent refurbishments that have maintained her jewel-box charms and quality appointments, with tasteful nods to modern tastes and comforts.

A voyage aboard feels like you’ve traveled not only to the other side of the Pacific, but also to another time: of gracious, slow travel, of voyages of discovery in pristine places, of having time and space and silence to think and appreciate the company of the people you’re traveling with.

It’s a haven of escapism, tropical nature, French Polynesian history, culture, and nautical heritage.

Is there any more evocative holiday that celebrates the romance of exotic travel more than a vacation in an overwater bungalow in the South Pacific? Having sailed aboard the Paul Gauguin in my own, floating overwater bungalow… I think there is.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert

Cunard Unveils Historic ‘Four Queens’ Voyages and Limited Time Savings

Fri, 29 May 26 22:43:33 +0000

Plus, with Cunard's new Signature Packages, bundle wifi, drinks, specialty dining, and save more!

Cunard’s 2028 program of sailings presents 190 extraordinary voyages in 36 countries, including a historic Four Queens Celebration in May 2028 with 2 unique ways to experience all four Cunard ‘Queens’ ships!

BOOKINGS ARE NOW OPEN – PLUS SAVINGS!

Book by June 30, 2026, and get a 10% discount on these new voyages
Book by September 9, 2026, to get up to USD 600 onboard credit

Cunard's New Signature Packages: Bundle and Save!

Cunard is now offering two new packages bundling amenities. Ask us for pricing for Cunard’s:

Signature Package and
Premium Signature Package

Bundling essential extras with savings of up to 30% compared to on-board pricing.

Both packages include:

Wi-Fi,
drinks and
dining credit for specialty restaurants,

Creating an effortless way for you to make the most of your time at sea. 

4 QUEENS, 2 WAYS

Reunion at Sea

A landmark moment will take place in Liverpool in Spring 2028. In an historic first, all four Cunard Queens meet in Liverpool on May 16, 2028, offering guests the rare opportunity to be part of history during one of the Four Queens Celebration voyages.

4 Queens Cruise

Cunard is debuting another all-time first: experience the elegance of all four Cunard Queens in one single journey. Cunard's ‘Queen-to-Queen’ voyages, a collection of back-to-back sailings, allow guests to combine voyages on board two, three or four Queens in one extended luxury adventure.

The four-Queen 40-night voyage from Southampton to Civitavecchia (for Rome), from April 16, 2028, to May 26, 2028, takes in the Norwegian Fjords, explores Europe's best ports, and joins the landmark Four Queens Celebration in Liverpool.

Additional program highlights include iconic Transatlantic Crossings, Independence Day celebrations in Boston, a variety of itineraries to Europe from Southampton, and four fleet maiden calls for Queen Victoria, including Aberdeen in Scotland, Olbia and Taranto in Italy, and Måløy in Norway.

Queen Mary 2

The world's only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2, offers her signature Cunard experience on iconic Transatlantic Crossings, including her first-ever eastbound crossing from New York to Liverpool for the Four Queens Celebration.

Beyond the Atlantic, Cunard's flagship will offer voyages around the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean.

Highlights include an overnight stay in Boston for Independence Day celebrations, a return to Gaspé, Canada, for the first time in 11 years, a North Cape voyage in Norway, and an overnight stay in Tromsø, Norway, during a Northern Lights voyage.

Queen Victoria

Sailing round-trip from Southampton, Queen Victoria's 2028 program focuses on immersive European itineraries.

Travel north to Scandinavia and Northern Europe, where overnight stays in Stockholm, Reykjavík, Oslo, and Copenhagen provide extended time ashore, while late evening departures within the Arctic Circle offer exceptional opportunities to witness the spectacular Northern Lights.

For warmer escapes, Queen Victoria will call at Mediterranean destinations for the first time in more than a decade, including Albania, Cyprus, Turkey, and Tunisia, alongside maiden fleet visits to Olbia and Taranto in Italy.

Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth will spend summer 2028 exploring the Mediterranean. From Croatia and Montenegro to Greece, guests can discover sun-washed coastlines, turquoise waters, and cultures shaped by centuries of history, cuisine, and tradition.

Highlights include a maiden visit to Bari, the capital of Puglia, Italy, and an overnight stay in Istanbul, with a chance to see the city's historic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia illuminated after dark.

Queen Anne

Cunard's newest ship, Queen Anne, will begin her 2028 season in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, including a spectacular overnight stay in Liverpool for the Four Queens Celebration.

Sailing from Southampton, she will offer a variety of seven-night round-trip voyages alternating between Norway's dramatic fjords and sunlit escapes to France, Spain and Portugal, including a maiden call to Le Verdon, the gateway to Bordeaux's renowned wine region.

Guests can enjoy overnight stays in Oslo, Copenhagen and Lisbon, as well as late-evening departures from La Palma and La Rochelle. Longer voyages include Arctic explorations and extended Canary Islands itineraries.

More About Cunard

Cunard is a luxury British cruise line renowned for creating unforgettable experiences around the world. Cunard has been a leading operator of passenger ships since 1840.

The Cunard experience is built on fine dining, hand-selected entertainment, and outstanding White Star service. From a partnership with a two-Michelin-starred chef to inspiring guest speakers to world-class theatre productions, every detail has been meticulously crafted to make the experience unforgettable. A pioneer in transatlantic journeys and round-the-world voyages, destinations sailed to also include Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska, the Far East, and Australia.

There are currently four Cunard ships: Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, and the new ship, Queen Anne, which entered service in May 2024.

*** Images courtesy of Cunard

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

Paul Gauguin Tahiti and Ponant Global Expedition Cruises: 30% Early Booking Savings!

Fri, 29 May 26 22:43:33 +0000

From paradise in the South Pacific to the wonders of the world from pole to pole, book a Paul Gauguin Cruise or a Ponant expedition voyage early, and save up to 30%. Give yourself the treat of anticipation as well as savings!

Paul Gauguin Cruises: Save up to 30%

Explore paradise with French Polynesia’s destination expert and enjoy Bonus Savings of up to 30% on the widest variety of all-inclusive journeys in the region when you book now.

Paul Gauguin Cruises operates the 330-guest m/s Paul Gauguin, providing a luxury cruise experience tailored to the unparalleled wonders of French Polynesia and the South Pacific. The islands have been home for the Paul Gauguin for more than 25 years, and the line’s expertise in revealing them with artful authenticity is unmatched.

In 2019, Paul Gauguin Cruises joined PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, a designer of inspiring voyages on board small exploration ships. 

Ponant: Save up to 30%

As the world leader in small-ship exploration, Ponant invites travelers to embark on all-inclusive journeys to breathtaking destinations, from the icy wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula and the majestic glaciers of Spitsbergen to the sun-kissed Greek Islands and serene Norwegian fjords.

By booking early, you can benefit from the best rates thanks to the PONANT Bonus: up to a 30% discount on the advertised rate of your stateroom or suite. This promotion decreases with occupancy, so the earlier you book, the more you save!

Ponant’s “Explore to Inspire” mission is centered around exploration to better understand, learn, share and protect. The cruise line has been committed to responsible tourism and purposeful voyages of exploration for over 35 years. Aboard a fleet of 14 French-flagged small ships, fitted with the latest environmental technologies, the journey of exploration is always elegant, authentic, and inspiring.

Ponant ships embody French sophistication in refined exploration, infused with the vibrant art de vivre of the company’s French heritage. Guests enjoy elegantly appointed staterooms and suites with private balconies, wellness centers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and gourmet dining curated by Ponant’s chefs in collaboration with Ducasse Conseil, blending flavors from local destinations with timeless favorites.

Ask for a complete list of applicable sailings aboard Paul Gauguin Cruises and Ponant.

Act now to secure your top choice of itineraries and dates!

*** Top Image courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises

Bottom image: Ponant's Commandant Charcot in Quebec, Canada, by Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist

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

Holland America Launching Year-Round Cruises in Europe

Fri, 29 May 26 22:43:33 +0000

The seasons for cruise and travel are changing – even disappearing altogether! Holland America Line has become the latest cruise line to expand to year-round sailing in Europe, joining the likes of Viking and Windstar to make the coasts of the Mediterranean and beyond a destination for all seasons.

From festive Scandinavian cities to European Christmas markets, Lapland and a more relaxed Mediterranean, new Holland America Line winter voyages bring the season to life with an extended 2027-2028 season sailing through early spring. These itineraries showcase Europe at a different pace, with access to seasonal experiences, regional traditions and a greater mix of destinations across the region With more overnights and late-night stays, the new deployment offers deeper, more immersive ways to explore throughout the year.

The expanded season includes a dozen cruises aboard Nieuw Statendam across the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. The new itineraries add more than 70 additional port days year-over-year, giving guests more time in port along with extended stays and fewer crowds.

The deployment also includes two additional voyages aboard Zuiderdam, further expanding options for guests exploring Europe during the winter season.

Christmas Market Cruises Bring Europe’s Holiday Traditions to Life

Nieuw Statendam’s holiday sailings are designed to immerse guests in Europe at one of its most atmospheric times of year, when city squares glow with lights, markets fill with local artisans and the pace of travel invites deeper exploration. With overnights and extended stays built into each itinerary, guests have the time to experience the traditions, cuisine and rhythms that define the season.

A 13-day Baltic and Scandinavian Christmas Markets: Stockholm cruise sails roundtrip from Rotterdam or Dover, calling at Kiel, the gateway to Hamburg’s well-known Christmas markets, as well as Tallinn and Copenhagen. Overnight stays in Helsinki and Stockholm give guests time to explore festive city centers after dark, when markets and cultural traditions are in full swing. The Helsinki call also offers access to Lapland in the Arctic Circle, referred to by many as the home of Santa Claus.
A second 15-day holiday sailing spans the Christmas season, featuring overnights in Hamburg and Copenhagen. The itinerary also includes a call to Aarhus and scenic cruising of the Elbe River, along with exploration of southern Norway, with calls to Oslo, Kristiansand, Bergen and Stavanger.

Mediterranean Voyages Offer a More Relaxed Way to Explore

Beyond the holiday season, Nieuw Statendam’s winter and early spring sailings shift south to the Mediterranean, where guests can experience the region at a slower pace. With mild temperatures and a rich mix of seasonal experiences, destinations feel local and approachable, offering a fresh perspective on some of Europe’s most-visited cities.

The itineraries span the Western and Eastern Mediterranean as well as the Canary Islands, connecting cultural capitals and coastal towns across Spain, France, Italy and Greece. Voyages include ports such as Valencia, Marseille and Livorno, and Naples for access to Pompeii. Farther east, sailings explore destinations including Mykonos, Rhodes and Kusadasi, along with overnight calls in sought-after destinations allowing for more time ashore.

With a mix of seven- to 14-day voyages, guests can choose shorter, region-focused sailings or combine itineraries for a more expansive journey.

Longer Collectors’ Voyages span up to 24 days and can also be sailed back-to-back, allowing guests to experience a broader mix of the region. Sailings highlight the Mediterranean in a season when the pace is slower, the atmosphere is more intimate and each destination offers a more authentic connection.

Whether you want to escape hot weather, avoid crowds during school holidays, or enjoy seasonal local holiday celebrations, formerly ‘off season’ cruises are increasingly the perfect solution. With all the benefits of cruising: packing once and having your floating hotel bring you into the heart of multiple destinations, and having all the details looked after so all you have to do is be on vacation!

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Holland America Line

Princess 3 Day Sale: June 11 - 13, 2026

Thu, 28 May 26 17:41:27 +0000

Expedia Cruises™ Exclusive 3DS Offer

Up to $1200 Onboard Credit* per stateroom (based on a double occupancy). See the chart below for a breakdown of OBC
$100 USD ($138 CAD) per person NON-REFUNDABLE Reduced Deposit
Coupon Booklet

Applicable Sailings: Any 6-night or longer cruises and cruisetours sailing now through 2028

Applicable Categories: All

Onboard Credit Per Person (Guests 1 & 2)

	Inside & Oceanview	Balcony	Mini-Suite & Suite
6 to 8 Nights	$100	$200	$250
9 to 12 Nights	$150	$300	$350
13 to 16 Nights	$200	$400	$450
17+ Nights	$250	$500	$600

3DS EXCLUSIVE OFFER: TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Offer is available from June 11, 2026 (12:00 am PT) until June 13, 2026 (11:59 pm PT) for new bookings only. Offer applies to 6-night and longer cruises and cruisetours sailing the remainder of 2026 through 2028, where published. All categories are eligible for this offer. Princess reserves the right to limit available volume of this offer. Onboard Credit (OBC) is per guest and based on voyage length and stateroom type as follows: on 6-8 night sailings receive $100 OBC for inside/oceanview, $200 OBC for balcony, and $250 OBC for mini-suite/suite; on 9-12 night sailings receive $150 OBC for inside/oceanview, $300 OBC for balcony, and $350 OBC for mini-suite/suite; on 13-16 night sailings receive $200 OBC for inside/oceanview, $400 OBC for balcony, and $450 OBC for mini-suite/suite; on 17 night and longer sailings receive $250 OBC for inside/oceanview, $500 OBC for balcony, and $600 OBC for mini-suite/suite. Offer is applicable to guests 1 and 2 in a stateroom. Guests 3 and 4 are excluded. Guests with single occupancy will receive the same per guest credit amount. Onboard credit must be used on the single voyage that it was awarded in connection with, is not redeemable for cash, cannot be used in the casino, is not applicable during the land portion of cruisetours, and expires at the end of that voyage. Offer is not transferable and may not be combinable with other select offers or other onboard credits. Onboard Credit will be applied to guest’s folio and is awarded in the currency corresponding to the ship’s onboard currency. $100 USD Non-Refundable Reduced Deposit applies to guests 1 and 2. For Canadian dollar bookings, deposits will convert based on exchange rate in Polar. Promo Code FBC (includes OBC and NRD terms); CN6/CD6 (coupon book). Standard terms and conditions apply for all bookings. Details can be found on www.princess.com. Offer is combinable with all fare types (Princess Standard®, Princess Plus®, Princess Premier®) except recipient-only fares, casino fares, Travel Advisor, Interline, Friends & Family referral fares. In the event of any conflict between these terms and any advertisement, the terms shall govern. Offer is not transferable, not substitutable, and not redeemable for cash. Offer may be changed or revoked at any time.

Save up to 15% on Summer Seabourn Voyages

Tue, 19 May 26 18:22:19 +0000

Luxury cruise and expedition line Seabourn has launched The Exploration Event, offering you savings of up to 15 percent on select summer ocean and expedition voyages ranging from seven to 82 days between 2026 and 2028.

The Exploration Event spans destinations worldwide, from Alaska and the Mediterranean to the Arctic, Northern Europe, and Australia.

Every sailing included in “The Exploration Event” features Seabourn’s signature onboard experience, with highly personalized service, ocean-front suites, complimentary premium spirits and fine wines, and curated culinary experiences.

Savings Plus Shipboard Credit

Seabourn is also offering a separate shipboard credit promotion of up to USD 1,000 per suite on select 2026-2028 winter voyages sailing October through March to Japan, the Caribbean, South America, and Antarctica.

Use your onboard credit on onboard and shoreside experiences, and it may be applied toward shore excursions, spa treatments, boutique purchases, reserve wine selections, Stream Wi-Fi powered by Starlink, and other destination-focused experiences, including private guided tours and culinary exploration.

Select Ocean and Expedition Summer Voyages for ‘The Exploration Event:’

Alaska

Explore southern Alaska’s fjords, glaciers, and wildlife on a voyage designed to reach places larger ships cannot. Optional Ventures by Seabourn experiences, led by the Expedition Team, include Zodiac cruises, kayaking, hiking, and enrichment focused on the region’s landscapes and ecosystems. Destinations include Hubbard Glacier, the Inian Islands, Icy Strait Point, and Haines.

July 9, 2027 – Seabourn Encore – 7-Day Glaciers & Alaska Inside Passage

The Mediterranean

Sailing from Istanbul to Venice, this eastern Mediterranean journey connects historic cities and island cultures, with calls in Çanakkale, Patmos, Santorini, Kotor, Hvar, and Koper. Each destination offers opportunities for exploration rooted in history, architecture, cuisine, and more.

May 29, 2027 – Seabourn Ovation – 15-Day Hidden Gems of Turkey, Greece, Croatia & Slovenia

Northern Europe

Experience Norway’s coastline during the height of summer, with extended daylight illuminating fjords, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and communities above the Arctic Circle. The voyage continues to Amsterdam before returning to Dover.

June 19, 2027 – Seabourn Quest – 14-Day Midsummer in the Land of the Midnight Sun

Australia

Explore remote stretches of the Kimberley coast, where tidal movements and local conditions shape each day’s itinerary. Zodiac cruises and nature walks bring guests close to dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and ancient rock art.

July 1, 2027 – Seabourn Pursuit – 10-Day Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls & Wanjinas

Arctic

An expedition voyage along Iceland and southern Greenland highlights dramatic fjords, Norse history, and Inuit culture, guided by Seabourn’s Expedition Team of experts and the Southern Greenland Experience.

July 3, 2027 – Seabourn Venture – 14-Day Southeast Greenland and Iceland

Select Winter Voyages with the shipboard credit offer:

Japan

Sail Japan as winter transitions toward spring, with calls in smaller ports and culturally focused experiences including regional festivals and forest bathing, plus a visit to Busan, South Korea.

February 27, 2027 – Seabourn Encore – 14-Day Sea of Japan & Plum Blossoms

South Pacific

An extended World Cruise segment crossing the South Pacific and the Equator, with island calls, cultural encounters, and a journey from Australia to California via Hawaii.

April 15, 2027 – Seabourn Quest – 27-Day World Cruise: South Pacific Explorer & Hawaii

Caribbean

Island hop through the eastern Caribbean with stops in St. Barthélemy, Montserrat, St. Kitts, Dominica, and Jost Van Dyke on a roundtrip voyage from Miami. In Carambola Beach, guests will enjoy the line’s “Caviar in the Surf” signature event, where uniformed Seabourn team members plunge into the water and serve chilled champagne and caviar from a surfboard bar.

November 23, 2027 – Seabourn Quest – 11-Day Leeward Islands & Dominica Dreams

Antarctica

Spend five full days exploring Antarctica with Zodiac landings and guided shore walks led by the Expedition Team. Soak in breathtaking views of the towering icebergs and enjoy wildlife viewings of penguin colonies, seals and whales.

February 20, 2027 – Seabourn Venture – 11-Day The Great White Continent

South America

Explore the remote Falkland Islands and South American coastline, with wildlife encounters and cultural experiences from Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro.

March 22, 2027 – Seabourn Venture – 15-Day Wild Falkland Islands & South America

Ask us for a complete list of applicable sailings, benefits, and combinable promotions for The Exploration Event.

More About Seabourn:

Seabourn represents the pinnacle of luxury ocean and expedition travel and operates a suite of six modern ships. The all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; award-winning dining; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times; renowned service provided by an industry-leading crew; a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home; a pedigree in expedition travel through the Ventures by Seabourn program and two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ships, including Seabourn Venture that launched in 2022 and Seabourn Pursuit in 2023. Seabourn takes travelers to every continent on the globe, visiting more than 400 ports, including marquee cities and lesser-known ports and hideaways. Guests of Seabourn experience extraordinary offerings and programs, including partnerships with leading entertainers, dining, personal health and wellbeing, and engaging speakers.

Seabourn at a glance:

Intimate ships with a private yacht-like atmosphere
All ocean-front suites are luxuriously appointed, most with a private veranda
Intuitive, personalized service provided by a team passionate about exceeding guests' expectations
Complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available on board at all times
Complimentary caviar throughout your voyage
World-class dining and culinary experiences
All dining venues are complimentary, dine where, when, and with whom you wish
Welcome Champagne and complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences
Tipping is neither required nor expected
Seabourn Conversations, connecting with visionary experts
Curated voyages to all seven continents, delivering award-winning, authentic experiences
‘Ventures by Seabourn’, optional shore excursions, enhance and extend your experience in select destinations**^
Complimentary entertainment experiences, offering a variety of shows and live music
Complimentary Wi-Fi packages with unlimited minutes powered by SpaceX's Starlink
Complimentary Signature Events: Marina Day, ‘Caviar in the Surf’, Evening at Ephesus, Shopping with the Chef, Caviar on the Ice, Polar Plunge, and more
Committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability

*Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Venture, Seabourn Pursuit

**Optional programs, for additional charge

^Available on Seabourn Quest, Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Ovation

Images courtesy of Seabourn

Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for offer, itinerary,

Why Travelers are Following the Trail of South Africa’s Oldest Vineyards

Tue, 19 May 26 18:22:19 +0000

For wine travelers, South Africa’s Old Vine Project has transformed a tasting trip through the Cape winelands into a journey through living wine history.

Across the Western Cape, the tell-tale shapes of gnarled old bush vines — some planted decades ago — are now among the country’s most compelling travel experiences. Visitors in the know increasingly come not just to taste wine, but to stand among vineyards that survived turbulent decades of drought, shifting wine fashions, and the global race toward high-yield commercial wine production.

The Champion of South Africa’s Old Vines

At the center of this movement is Rosa Kruger, the South African viticulturist widely credited with helping save the country’s heritage vineyards.

I had the privilege of meeting Rosa at an event hosted by the Wines of South Africa, where she recounted her quest to rediscover, document, and preserve the country’s oldest vines. A tasting confirmed they were worth the effort – and visiting those wineries nurturing and making wine from these small and precious vineyards should be on every oenophile’s list of travel goals.

In the early 2000s, Kruger began traveling through the Cape searching for forgotten old vineyards. At the time, many were at risk of being uprooted because older vines naturally produce lower yields and were often seen as economically inefficient. Kruger believed exactly the opposite: that these mature vineyards represented some of South Africa’s greatest wine treasures.

The Old Vine Project

Her work eventually led to the formal launch of the Old Vine Project (OVP) in 2016. The project’s mission is to identify, preserve, and promote vineyards older than 35 years while creating financial incentives for growers to keep them alive rather than replacing them with younger, higher-yielding vines better suited to mass, commercial wine production.

The result has been transformative — not only for South African wine, but for wine travel.

South Africa did not invent the idea of old vines. European wine regions have revered ancient vineyards for centuries, and wineries in France, Spain, Portugal, and Italy long marketed “old vine” wines. Spain and Portugal, in particular, still have vineyards significantly older than many in South Africa.

What South Africa has done — arguably more influentially — has been to turn old vines from romantic wine marketing into a globally respected preservation movement.

Groundbreaking Initiative Preserving Ancient Vineyards

South Africa debuted the first nationally organized certification and preservation movement dedicated specifically to identifying, registering, protecting and commercially promoting old vineyards across an entire wine-producing country.

Before the South African model, “old vine” was often vague marketing language with no formal definition. One producer’s old vines might be 20 years old; another’s 80. The Old Vine Project introduced traceable vineyard records and a formal “Certified Heritage Vineyards” seal for vineyards older than 35 years, helping establish credibility and authenticity.

Global Impact

The idea resonated far beyond the Cape winelands.

For decades, many growers saw old vines as liabilities because they yield fewer grapes. The Old Vine Project helped flip that thinking. Lower yields could mean greater concentration, texture, and personality — wines distinctive enough to command premium prices and inspire wine lovers to travel halfway around the world to taste them.

Its impact can now be seen in the Old World and the New World, where wineries are embracing, codifying, and preserving their own oldest vines.

Kruger herself has become one of the most respected figures in global wine. In 2022, she became the first South African inducted into Decanter’s Hall of Fame.

Redefining Regional Wines and Wine Travel

The movement reshaped South Africa’s wine identity. For years, the country was associated with inexpensive bulk wine. The rediscovery of old Chenin Blanc, Cinsault, Semillon, Palomino, and Grenache vineyards helped fuel a premium wine renaissance centered on authenticity, terroir, and heritage.

In the glass, old vines often deliver wines with extraordinary texture, concentration, and sense of place.

For visitors planning a Cape winelands itinerary, the Old Vine Project has created a heritage wine route through some of South Africa’s most compelling vineyard landscapes: a quest that is part wine tasting, part road trip, part treasure hunt.

START YOUR TRIP!

Story and event images: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert

Top image: Getty

Top Souvenirs from a Springtime Trip to the Netherlands

Tue, 19 May 26 18:22:19 +0000

Tulip season in the Netherlands is a feast for the senses: ribbons of technicolor flowers beside canals, market squares bursting with spring blooms, and river cruise ships gliding through landscapes that look suspiciously filtered (even when they’re not!)

You’re going to love your trip so much that you will want to savor the moments for as long as possible.

Emerald river cruise ship docked in Willemstad, the Netherlands

I don’t believe in souvenirs that collect dust or worse! End up in landfills. Here are some mementos that fulfill the saying, “If you ain’t Dutch, you ain’t much.’ Many you’ll consume or share with loved ones, and others you’ll get lots of use from for years to come.

Cheese, Please!

Cheese may be the most delicious example. Markets in towns with name-sake cheeses like Gouda and Edam have been trading wheels for centuries, and a spring cruise often includes excursions where travelers can sample cheeses still made on family farms. Aged Gouda is the superstar!

Tip: Vacuum-packed wedges travel well. Don’t forget to check the import regulations about bringing food into your home country.

A Blooming Gift

Then there are tulips themselves, the official symbol of the country. Cut flowers are perishable, of course. But the Netherlands produces billions of spring flower bulbs annually, and you can shop for exotic varieties at gardens, flower farms, and markets – even the airport on your way home!

Tip: Many countries regulate the import of agricultural products like tulip bulbs. Check your local laws and also look for ‘export ready’ tulips with certification they will pass inspection. OR, if Keukenhof, famous as being the largest spring flower garden in the world, is on your agenda, you can order bulbs from Dutch growers there, and they will be shipped to your home, customs cleared.

Then you can look out your window every spring, see the tulips, and remember your trip to the Netherlands!

A Room with Blue

Like the cities of Gouda and Edam whose names have lent themselves to their most famous product, the city of Delft is known for its porcelain – or that one-of-a-kind color of Delft blue. Iconic Royal Delft has symbolized Dutch craftsmanship since the 17th century. Originally inspired by Chinese porcelain brought to Europe by trading ships, Delftware evolved into something unmistakably Dutch: windmills, canal houses, floral motifs, all painted in cobalt blue on creamy white ceramics.

You may not be able to resist the Dutch canal house figurines you can collect and line up as a street scene. But practical Delft items, from Christmas ornaments, to tea and coffee services, to a tulip vase that brings two Dutch symbols together, all marry beauty and utility in iconic blue and white.

Tip: beware of fakes. You’ll see all kinds of blue and white ceramics in the Netherlands. But for the quality of porcelain and artisanal hand-painting, nothing matches real, Royal Delft.

Clogged Up

Traditional wooden clogs – or klomps - remain a beloved symbol of Dutch culture. Clogs began as practical footwear for Dutch farmers, fishermen, and laborers at windmills. Over time, they became a cheerful national symbol, painted with regional designs. But clogs are not just folklore or crafts. Today, they’re still worn by farmers and millers and are legally certified safety footwear!

Tip: Instead of wooden folk art, fuzzy clog slippers in the Netherlands’ national colors, orange, yellow, or red, make a cozy, lightweight, unapologetically kitschy, and completely charming souvenir that will warm your feet and your heart every winter’s day you put them on!

There’s No Wafel like Stroopwafels

No visit to the Netherlands is complete without eating – and bringing home – stroopwafels: thin waffle cookies sandwiching a layer of spiced caramel filling. Fresh, warm, market stroopwafels are life-changing. If you’re wondering what every passenger on your river cruise ship is carrying in a thin, paper sleeve, now you know!

Tip: Follow the Dutch and re-create that just-cooked gooey-ness! Balance your souvenir stroopwafels out of the tin over a hot cup of coffee so the steam softens the filling.

START YOUR TRIP!

Story and images: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

Orient Express Launches World’s Largest Sailed Cruise Ship

Tue, 19 May 26 18:22:19 +0000

The Golden Age of Sail is returning – with a 21st century twist! Storied travel company Orient Express made its first appearance at Seatrade, just ahead of the debut its first cruise ship: a 720-foot, 100-guest solid-sail ship that marries exquisite French hospitality, design and craftsmanship with next-generation, eco-friendly maritime innovation.

Orient Express Corinthian isn’t just a first for the ultra-luxury travel company known since the 19th century for its exquisite trains and hotels. It’s a first for cruising itself.

The ship’s christening in France at the end of April came as a result of 10 years of research and development on the part of French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

Credit: Maxime Castric

The remarkable, ‘solid sail’ construction is a “concrete, technical response to the decarbonisation challenges facing maritime transport” according to the shipyard’s CEO.

It’s not about re-living the past. It’s about the future.

A Technological Feat Under Sail

OE Corinthian is the first cruise ship equipped with the “SolidSail” wind propulsion system, developed by the shipyard drawing on expertise gained in offshore racing. Her three rigs, each rising to over 320 feet, are fully automated and capable of delivering 100% wind-powered propulsion.

Rotating through 360 degrees, they maintain optimal trim on any point of sail, whatever the wind direction. With carbon masts that can tilt to 70 degrees, the ship can clear the world's great bridges, so the world is this ship’s oyster in terms of destination access.

In sea trials, in 20 knots of wind, this vessel made 12 knots under sail alone. A first for a ship of this size.

And when the ship is sailing under wind power, it’s not consuming any fuel at all. Therefore, zero emissions. What about when there’s no wind?

The solid sails are complemented by hybrid liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion and numerous energy efficiency features, earning her the best EEDI (Energy Efficiency Design Index) rating in her class, far ahead of any other vessel of comparable size.

In addition to this ‘what’s old is new again’ sailing technology, the OE Corinthian employs next-generation technology to advance other eco-friendly features:

An AI-assisted detection system continuously monitors for marine mammals and objects in the water to reduce collision risk.
Dynamic positioning preserves the seabed by doing away with the need to anchor.

All-Inclusive, French Hospitality and the Finest Craftsmanship

Orient Express Corinthian’s interiors draw on the golden age of travel, the age of the Orient Express train and the great ocean liners, with contemporary updates, undertaken by 2000 French artisans.

Credit: Alice Mesguich

The ship accommodates 54 suites, ranging from 45 to 230 m2, across four decks. Each suite features a panoramic window and high ceilings. Interior finishes include leather, precious wood veneers, and marbles.

Credit: Alice Mesguich

A dedicated butler attends each cabin.

Five restaurants and private dining rooms are placed under the culinary direction of multi- Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno.

Eight bars, including an Art Deco speakeasy, a 115-seat cabaret, and a recording studio, complete the offering.

Credit: Alice Mesguich

The Guerlain spa, a swimming lane, a pool, and a marina are at passengers' disposal throughout the voyage.

All is offered on a fully inclusive basis.

Itineraries

Following the christening, Orient Express Corinthian embarked on her inaugural Mediterranean season.

From May to October 2026, she sails the Mediterranean and the Adriatic, before crossing the Atlantic in autumn to winter in the Caribbean.

In 2027, a new collection of itineraries extends her range to the eastern Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

Each route leads to carefully chosen ports of call, storied harbours and quieter shores alike, where culture, craftsmanship and landscape compose an open invitation.

Itineraries of one to four nights offer a freedom of pace: each passage can be combined with another to build an entirely bespoke voyage.

Two of a Kind

OE Corinthian is the first of two ships planned for Orient Express. The Orient Express Olympian launches in 2027.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images courtesy of Orient Express; credits as noted.

Top image credit: Macha Kontchakova — Frontline Studio and Jean-Marie Liot

Fall Fam Jam at Beaches Resorts: Free Night’s Stay and More for Families

Tue, 19 May 26 18:22:19 +0000

Make fall family time at Beaches Resorts’! The all-inclusive family resort company has launched Fall Fam Jam seasonal offer, featuring a lively lineup of complimentary, toddler-friendly programming designed especially for families traveling with little ones. Plus special offers parents will love, too!

Offer available until October 31, 2026 on stays of five nights or longer at Beaches Turks and Caicos and Beaches Negril.

ASK US FOR MORE DETAILS!

At both resorts: Beaches Turks and Caicos and Beaches Negril, Fall Fam Jam includes two complimentary Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street® experiences—a Character Breakfast and Sunrise Yoga with beloved Sesame Street friends—along with a spa credit so parents can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.

At Beaches Negril, families receive even more value with one complimentary night on stays of six nights or longer.

Plan Ahead! Beaches Fall Fam Jam Travel Windows are already scheduled, so you can look forward to fall family travel in advance:

August 23 – October 31, 2026
August 23 – October 31, 2027
August 23 – October 31, 2028

From splash-filled playtime and hands-on creative activities to joyful moments shared together, the seasonal event invites families to slow down, connect, and experience the magic of the Caribbean in a way that feels perfectly your own.

As a requirement to receive the offer, travel advisors must register the booking within 72 hours at: https://www.beaches.com/beaches-fall-fam-jam-registration/

More About Beaches Resorts

Beaches Resorts is the Caribbean playground where families can live their best island life. With all-inclusive family resorts in Turks and Caicos and Jamaica, and soon-to-come locations in Barbados, The Bahamas, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, 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.

*** Images courtesy of Beaches Resorts

*** Terms & Conditions apply: ask us for full offer, pricing and date availability.

Opera by the Sea: Where World-Class Music Meets the Waterfront

Tue, 19 May 26 18:22:19 +0000

The world’s waterfronts are undergoing incredible transformations, from no-go industrial sites to revitalized centers of urban lifestyle and community living. Increasingly, the centerpiece of that renaissance… is a landmark, architectural marvel music hall.

Often labeled ‘opera houses,’ these venues are the opposite of stuffy, formal halls that host exclusively traditional performances. Sitting directly on the water, these new icons of modern culture embrace the ebb and flow of the waves they overlook: relaxed and connected to the city around them. Ferries arrive nearby. Locals keep waterfront promenades bustling. Visitors come for the architecture as much as the performances that embrace modern, accessible and widely-interpreted versions of anything and everything musical.

And make the most of exceptional technology and acoustics.

These four venues have become defining landmarks not only because of what happens inside, but because of where they are built.

Sydney: The Harbor Landmark That Started it All

Few buildings are more recognizable worldwide than the Sydney Opera House. Its sail-like roofline rising above Sydney Harbour has become one of the defining images of Australia.

Since its opening in 1973, it has become one of the world’s busiest performing arts venues, hosting opera, symphony concerts, theater, comedy, and contemporary music.

Sitting beside the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the opera house is woven into the daily rhythm of the harbor. Travelers can arrive by ferry, walk the waterfront before a performance, or simply enjoy the outdoor restaurants overlooking the water.

Architectural tours are hugely popular, and many visitors experience the building without attending a formal performance at all. Projections on the exterior reflect cultural touchpoints, from Olympics, to indigenous culture, to ecofriendly themes.

Oslo: An Opera House for the People

The Oslo Opera House helped transform Oslo’s waterfront when it opened in 2008.

Built directly on the edge of the Oslofjord, the white marble structure appears to rise from the water. Its most unusual feature is the roof, which slopes to ground level so visitors can walk all over it.

That decision changed how people interact with the building. Locals use it as a public gathering place as much as a cultural venue. In summer, people picnic there and watch the sunset over the fjord. In winter, the stark white architecture stands out dramatically against dark Nordic skies.

Inside, the opera house is home to the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet. The warm wood interiors create a striking contrast with the minimalist exterior.

The building also reflects modern Oslo itself — a city where outdoor life and contemporary culture live side by side. Visitors can spend the afternoon kayaking or using the city’s floating saunas before attending an evening ballet or concert.

Hamburg: A Concert Hall Above the Port

The Elbphilharmonie Hamburg quickly became Hamburg’s modern symbol when it debuted in 2017. (pictured, top)

Built above a historic brick warehouse in the city’s harbor district, the glass structure resembles waves rising over the River Elbe, transforming the city’s waterfront.

The venue is known for exceptional acoustics, with seating designed to bring audiences unusually close to performers. Programming extends beyond classical music to jazz, contemporary concerts, and international productions.

Even visitors without tickets often head to the public Plaza observation level for panoramic views across Hamburg’s port, bridges, and canals. Unlike many grand concert halls, the Elbphilharmonie feels connected to the working harbor around it rather than separated from it.

Reykjavik: Music on the Edge of the Arctic

The Harpa Concert Hall opened in 2011 on Reykjavik’s waterfront and quickly became one of Iceland’s defining modern buildings.

Its geometric glass exterior was inspired by Iceland’s volcanic basalt formations and changing northern light. Depending on the weather and season, the building shifts dramatically in color and mood. The image of Harpa will remain one of your lingering memories of Iceland’s capital.

Harpa is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, but its programming reflects Iceland’s broader music culture as well, hosting everything from classical concerts to electronic and indie music festivals.

The location gives the venue much of its character. Fishing boats and whale-watching tours still depart from the nearby harbor, while mountains and ocean frame the city in every direction. In winter, concertgoers can leave an evening performance to freezing sea air and, if conditions cooperate, the possibility of the Northern Lights overhead.

‘Wave’ of the Future

More major cities are using waterfront concert halls and opera houses as cultural anchors for redeveloped harbor districts. Keep your eyes on the horizon for these:

Korea:
The Busan Opera House is designed by the same architects behind Oslo’s opera house. It’s rising directly on Busan’s waterfront and is scheduled to open in 2027. Like Oslo, it’s designed as a public waterfront space as much as a performance venue, with a walkable roof and harbor views. It will be Busan’s first major opera house and part of a huge redevelopment of the city’s former industrial port area.
Spain:
Another ambitious project is the planned Palacio de la Opera on the Costa del Sol waterfront, set to begin construction soon. Málaga has spent the last two decades reinventing itself as a serious cultural destination — adding museums, galleries, and performance venues beyond its traditional beach-tourism image. The proposed opera house sits near the port and includes a large waterfront auditorium and cultural complex.
China:
Shenzhen has proposed an enormous new waterfront opera complex overlooking Shenzhen Bay, designed by architect Jean Nouvel. Plans include multiple performance halls and architecture explicitly inspired by the movement of water and sails. Once completed, it will be one of the world’s largest waterfront performing arts complexes.

A new generation of modern waterfront concert halls increasingly behaves more like public squares with every kind of music under the sun inside, rather than traditional elite cultural institutions.

START YOUR TRIP!

Top images: Getty

Bottom image: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert