Happy Travels Feed

Venice and Croatian Islands Cruise

Wed, 20 May 26 04:00:16 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Discover Croatia’s captivating islands along the northern Adriatic, explore the Istrian peninsula, and visit magical Venice.
Commune with sound and light at Nikola Bašic’s popular Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun art installations.
Sail around scenic Kornati National Park, Croatia’s “nautical paradise.”
Walk across bridges and along canals during a walking tour of Venice.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Taste some sweet and delectable Rab cake with a gin and tonic on Rab Island.
Enjoy Dalmatian delicacies prepared according to traditional recipes.
Taste Italian wine in Collio, Italy’s prime white wine producing region.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Sail the islands of northern Croatia aboard a small ship.
Explore Šibenik and its stunning cathedral during a city tour.
Discover the craftsmanship behind the art of Murano glass-making.

HOTELS

MS San Spirito, Sibenik
LifeClass Hotel Riviera, Portoroz
Hotel Avani Rio Novo, Venice

INCLUDED

Stay:

13 Days
12 Nights

Meals:

11 Breakfasts
8 Lunches
5 Dinners

The Balkans From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece

Wed, 20 May 26 04:00:16 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Take a private boat to explore Our Lady of the Rocks Island and breathtaking Boka Bay.
Explore the historic and architectural evolution of Tirana.
Come to know Metéora and visit one of its Byzantine monasteries, built over 600 years ago.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Enjoy traditional Albanian food and folk entertainment in the capital city, Tirana.
Sit down for a farm-to-table lunch in the village of Fishtë and learn about traditional Albanian agriculture.
Experience Bosnian hospitality and regional dishes, joining a local family for a meal in a Sarajevo home.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Impact Moment: Uncover Sarajevo’s wartime history with a siege survivor.
Discover Gjirokastra’s Old Town, bazaar and castle.
Visit a traditional icon-painting workshop in Kalambaka.

HOTELS

Le Premier Boutique Hotel, Zagreb
The Lyra Hotel Plitvice, Licko Petrovo Selo, Plitvice Lakes
Hotel Colors Inn, Sarajevo
Hotel Adriatik, Dubrovnik
Hotel Cattaro, Kotor
Hotel Rogner, Tirana
Divani Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka
NYX Esperia Palace Hotel, Athens

INCLUDED

Stay:

16 Days
15 Nights

Meals:

14 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
7 Dinners

Up to 40% off with Oceania Cruises

Tue, 19 May 26 16:38:45 +0000

Enjoy savings of up to 40% off select sailings as you explore the world with ease. From Europe and Alaska to the Caribbean and Asia, you’re invited to follow your curiosity, discovering at your own pace and creating meaningful connections – both on board and ashore.

Contact us today to learn more.

3 Destinations To Explore As A Family On Carnival

Tue, 19 May 26 16:32:42 +0000

There’s something special about discovering new places together. The kind of moments where laughter comes easy, every view feels unforgettable, and even the smallest experiences turn into stories you’ll talk about long after the trip ends.

On a Carnival cruise, every destination becomes part of the adventure. Giving your family new ways to explore, play, and connect along the way.

Here are three unforgettable destinations your family won’t want to miss.

DISCOVER PARADISE IN THE CARIBBEAN AND BAHAMAS

Some trips just feel like pure joy from the moment you arrive and that’s exactly what you’ll find across Carnival’s Paradise Collection, a family of exclusive cruise destinations.

At Celebration Key™, Carnivals new exclusive destination in Grand Bahama families can spend the day splashing through the Caribbean’s largest freshwater lagoons, stretching out along soft white-sand beaches, and jumping into live entertainment, games, and activities designed for all ages. Every corner invites you to relax, play, or dive into something new together across five unique portals.

Located in the Bahamas, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™, the pace slows down in the best possible way. Think calm turquoise waters, powder-soft sand beneath your feet, and peaceful moments that make it easy to truly unwind. Whether you’re swimming, trying horseback riding along the shore, or just soaking up the view.

At Isla Tropicale, formerly Mahogany Bay and located in Honduras, lush tropical beauty and adventure takes center stage. You can soar above the island on a scenic chairlift, snorkel colorful reefs, or explore everything this lush destination has to offer. Relax and unwind at the new pool, complete with cabanas, loungers, and a swim-up bar, or venture along a scenic nature trail that showcases the island’s natural beauty. Each experience adding a new memory to your family’s story while exploring the natural beauty of Roatán.

And beyond these slices of paradise, the Caribbean and Bahamas offer even more to explore. From the vibrant energy of Nassau to the laid-back charm of Grand Turk. Each stop brings its own rhythm, its own flavor, and a new way for your family to experience island life together.

EXPLORE MEXICO’S COASTAL ADVENTURES

Few places bring together adventure, culture, and relaxation quite like a Carnival cruise to Mexico – and every port tells a different story your family gets to experience together.

One visit might mean snorkeling vibrant reefs or relaxing on sun-soaked beaches. The next, you’re exploring ancient ruins, tasting local flavors, or wandering colorful streets filled with music and energy.

From the crystal-clear waters of Cozumel to the rich history of Costa Maya and the welcoming coastal charm of Progreso, every stop invites you to discover something new side by side.

On the Pacific coast, the experiences keep unfolding. From the dramatic scenery of Cabo San Lucas to the culture and coastline of Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, each destination offering its own mix of adventure and unforgettable views. In Ensenada, families can take in sweeping ocean scenery, explore local markets, enjoy fresh coastal cuisine, or venture out to nearby natural wonders and vineyards. Adding a relaxed, scenic chapter to your journey.

Whether your family is chasing excitement, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Mexico delivers moments that feel vibrant, meaningful, and made to share.

EXPERIENCE ALASKA’S NATURAL WONDERS

If your family loves breathtaking scenery and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Carnival cruises to Alaska offers a completely different kind of adventure. One that feels bigger, wilder, and truly unforgettable.

In Juneau, the journey begins with dramatic scenery at every turn. Surrounded by towering mountains and icy landscapes, where you might spot whales, stand before the massive Mendenhall Glacier, or take in sweeping views that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s a capital city, but it feels like a gateway into pure wilderness.

In Skagway, history comes to life. Walking along wooden boardwalks or riding the scenic White Pass Railway feels like stepping into another era. One filled with stories, adventure, and incredible alpine views that feel straight out of a storybook.

In Ketchikan, culture and color take center stage, with vibrant waterfronts, totem parks, and a spirit that’s as rich as the scenery around you. It’s a place where families can explore totem parks, stroll historic Creek Street, and watch seaplanes land and take off against a backdrop of forested mountains and misty skies.

And in places like Sitka and Icy Strait Point, nature becomes the highlight. From wildlife sightings to peaceful coastal trails where every turn reveals something new to discover together. And if you’re lucky bald eagles and sea otters are often part of the scenery.

No matter the itinerary, Alaska has a way of turning every day into a shared sense of wonder. Where the landscapes are unforgettable, and the moments feel even bigger. Turning every stop into a highlight and every day into a new family adventure.

The best vacations aren’t just about where you go, they’re about the moments you create along the way. The laughter, the discoveries, and the memories your family will carry with them long after the journey ends.

Ready to discover unforgettable destinations, exciting adventures, and experiences for every generation? Contact your travel advisor to book your next family adventure on a Carnival cruise.

Early Saver + Reduced Deposits + OBC

Tue, 19 May 26 16:21:09 +0000

If your ideal getaway includes iconic fun zones and bold designs, then Carnival is Calling! Book your next Carnival cruise by May 31st and take advantage of 40%* off cruise rates, 50%* reduced deposits, and up to $25* to spend onboard the spa, drinks, dining and more on sailing through April 2028.

Contact us today to learn more.

Colors of Morocco

Tue, 19 May 26 04:00:15 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Pause for a view of the Atlas Mountains, with its extraordinary scenery and Berber villages.
Explore Fes, one of the holiest Muslim cities in the world.
Visit the Kasbah des Oudaias, with its narrow and colorful alleyways.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Indulge in a tour and paired lunch at a winery estate.
Select your own ingredients for a culinary workshop at a local women’s cooperative.
Experience a dish prepared by the women of the ksar following traditional recipes.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Stroll through the cobblestone alleyways of ancient markets and medinas.
Walk through an oasis date farm and discover the ancient irrigation systems that have sustained these fields of generations.
Experience the desert by 4x4 and during your 2-night camp stay.

HOTELS

INCLUDED

Stay:

15 Days
14 Nights

Meals:

13 Breakfasts
6 Lunches
8 Dinners

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend

Tue, 19 May 26 04:00:15 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Discover Cawdor Castle, a medieval fortress linked to Macbeth and Highland history.
Explore the culturally rich city of Glasgow.
Ferry to the Isle of Iona and visit Iona Abbey.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Enjoy Scottish treats on a Highland farm overlooking Loch Lomond.
Toast with the famous "water of life" during a whisky-inspired dinner in Edinburgh.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

See border collies in action during a traditional sheepdog demonstration at a family-run farm.
Walk the trails of Glencoe, where dramatic peaks and valleys echo clan legends.
Immerse yourself in the history of tartan as told by Highland women.

HOTELS

Hilton Glasgow, Glasgow
Loch Melfort Hotel, Arduaine, Oban
Grant Arms Hotel, Grantown-on-Spey
Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood, Edinburgh

INCLUDED

Stay:

11 Days
10 Nights

Meals:

9 Breakfasts
Lunches
5 Dinners

Majestic Cities of Central & Eastern Europe featuring Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Budapest & Krakow

Tue, 19 May 26 04:00:15 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Visit Panonhalma Archabbey (UNESCO), the Monastery of the Benedictine Order.
Come to know the lively nature of Krakow’s well-preserved Old Town.
Explore the best of Berlin on a walking tour tracing the city’s history and iconic landmarks.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Experience Viennese coffee house culture during an Impact Moment.
Learn the secrets of Viennese confectionery during a candy-making demonstration.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Hear from a Berliner about their experiences living in East Germany prior the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Be whisked by train from Prague to “The City of Music” – Vienna, Austria.
Take a poignant journey through history at the camps of Auschwitz.
Discover the 2 sides of Hungary’s capital, Buda and Pest, alongside a local expert.

HOTELS

Radisson Red Hotel, Berlin
Majestic Plaza Hotel, Prague
Imperial Riding School Hotel, Vienna
Up Hotel, Budapest
Mercure Krakow Old Town, Krakow

INCLUDED

Stay:

14 Days
13 Nights

Meals:

12 Breakfasts
1 Lunch
6 Dinners

Exploring Scotland & Ireland

Tue, 19 May 26 04:00:15 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Explore historic Inverness Castle, situated on a cliff overlooking the city.
Tour the "Fair City" of Dublin with a local guide.
Set out on a walking tour of Derry featuring its medieval city walls.
Join a local on a walk to uncover the history of Inverness as the gateway to the Highlands.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Take a tour (and have a tasting!) at one of Scotland’s oldest whisky distilleries.
Taste fresh apple cider at a family-run farm.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Discover how Derry has become a cultural city with a vibrant and growing scene.
Connect to Scottish culture at a local ceilidh, a traditional gathering that includes music and dance.
Meet working sheepdogs and see them in action on a local farm.

HOTELS

Radisson Blu, Edinburgh
Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel, Inverness
Hilton, Glasgow
Maldron Hotel, Belfast
City Hotel, Derry
Herbert Park Hotel, Dublin

INCLUDED

Stay:

13 Days
12 Nights

Meals:

11 Breakfasts
1 Lunch
7 Dinners

Portugal's Old-World Charms featuring Douro Valley, Alentejo & Lisbon

Tue, 19 May 26 04:00:15 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Discover the picturesque, lively neighborhood of Alfama in Lisbon.
Embark on a Douro River cruise through the breathtaking terraced landscape (UNESCO).
Enjoy a tour of the walled city of Evora (UNESCO).

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Taste the wines of the Alentejo region during a locally sourced farm-to-table dinner at a winery.
Savor the cuisine of Portugal during a home-hosted dinner full of local flavors.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Explore an old oil press in Marvão and learn about traditional olive oil production.
Venture to Alter do Chão, a small village with ties to the Lusitano horse breed.
Experience a night of fado and learn about this traditional art form.

HOTELS

INCLUDED

Stay:

11 Days
10 Nights

Meals:

9 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
5 Dinners

Shades of Ireland featuring Northern Ireland

Tue, 19 May 26 04:00:15 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Stand in awe of the stunning 700-foot-high Cliffs of Moher.
See Northern Ireland's famous phenomenon - the spectacular Giant's Causeway.
Kiss the famed Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Savor a hearty dinner and night of traditional Irish entertainment.
Enjoy dinner in a country inn.
Choose from a "menu" of Derry’s best restaurants.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Meet the Cope family as you tour their stately home.
Explore the walled city of Derry with a local guide.
Experience the daily life of an Irish family during a visit to a local farm.

HOTELS

INCLUDED

Stay:

13 Days
12 Nights

Meals:

11 Breakfasts
Lunches
7 Dinners

Italy: Amalfi Coast to Puglia

Tue, 19 May 26 04:00:15 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Make the most of a free afternoon in the popular resort town of Positano.
Explore a sfusato lemon grove and hike the Amalfi Coast's ancient Path of Lemons.
Venture through Naples' historic city center, overflowing with local life and eccentric monuments.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Visit a pasta factory and taste an iconic Italian dish.
Sample the traditional robust wines and food of Puglia.
Discover the secrets of making limoncello in the place where the liqueur originated.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Impact Moment: Discover traditional Neapolitan songs during a private performance at a local social enterprise.
Experience the Italian landscape like never before and spend 2 nights in a unique cave-dwelling accommodation.
In Lecce, feel the rhythm of the south during a private folk music and dance performance.

HOTELS

Royal Continental Hotel, Naples
Hotel Villa Romana, Minori, Amalfi Coast
Locanda di San Martino Hotel, Matera
Santa Chiara Suite Hotel, Lecce, Puglia
Trulli Holiday Albergo Diffuso, Alberobello, Puglia

INCLUDED

Stay:

14 Days
13 Nights

Meals:

12 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
3 Dinners

Highlights of Norway

Tue, 19 May 26 04:00:15 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Ride one of the steepest cable cars in the world for unrivaled fjord views.
Explore Bergen on a locally guided walking tour.
Witness scenic wilderness along the Flåm Railway.
Immerse yourself in Oslo's rich history on a city tour.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Dine in Bergen’s historic Bryggen neighborhood.
Enjoy traditional Norwegian fare in one of Oslo’s oldest buildings.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Visit the intricately designed Borgund Stave Church, erected in 1180.
Gain insight into the region’s history at the open-air Nordfjord Folk Museum.
Embark on an exhilarating Geirangerfjord cruise.

HOTELS

INCLUDED

Stay:

9 Days
8 Nights

Meals:

7 Breakfasts
Lunches
5 Dinners

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

Mon, 18 May 26 16:00:54 +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

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

Mon, 18 May 26 15:58:56 +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

Orient Express Launches World’s Largest Sailed Cruise Ship

Mon, 18 May 26 15:56:03 +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

Top Souvenirs from a Springtime Trip to the Netherlands

Mon, 18 May 26 15:53:55 +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.

Spectacular Scandinavia

Mon, 18 May 26 04:00:13 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

In Geiranger, cruise through one of the world’s most famous fjords.
Enjoy a guided tour of Sofiero Palace, a country mansion once used by royalty.
Ride the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s steepest train rides.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Experience traditional Norwegian cuisine in Bergen.
Savor Swedish cuisine in Stockholm's old town.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Explore centuries-old history along the streets of Gamla Stan in Stockholm.
Visit Borgund Stave Church, a masterpiece of medieval Norwegian architecture.
Travel like a local on the commuter train from Stokholm to Gothenburg.

HOTELS

INCLUDED

Stay:

15 Days
14 Nights

Meals:

13 Breakfasts
1 Lunch
6 Dinners

Peru: Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca

Mon, 18 May 26 04:00:13 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Cruise to the floating islands of the Uros people of Lake Titicaca.
Spend the afternoon with a guide uncovering the mysteries of Machu Picchu.
Venture through the Andes by train to Machu Picchu.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Enjoy a culinary demonstration at your hotel at the base of Machu Picchu.
Delight in a farm-to-table lunch with a local Quechua community.
Experience a home-hosted meal on Lake Titicaca.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Explore the colorful markets of Peru, including the famous Pisac village market.
Discover the artist’s techniques and designs at Pablo Seminario Ceramic Studio.
Learn traditional methods of harvesting and weaving from a rural community.

HOTELS

INCLUDED

Stay:

10 Days
9 Nights

Meals:

9 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
4 Dinners

Gems of Greece: Athens, Naxos & Crete

Mon, 18 May 26 04:00:13 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Take a scenic day cruise from Naxos and sail among the Small Cyclades islands.
Visit the famous Acropolis in Athens and the Acropolis Museum dedicated to its artifacts.
Explore the ruins of Knossos Palace, a center of Minoan civilization and legend.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Enjoy tastings of Cretan olive oils and wines at a family-run olive mill and winery.
Immerse yourself in Greek folk traditions during a Cretan taverna dinner with dancing.
Sample the local Kitron, a liqueur only produced on the Greek island of Naxos.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Explore the culture and traditions of Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, where families go back generations and one of the few Greek islands full of year-round residents.
Connect with the mission of Shedia Home, a café and artists’ workshop in Athens that supports its community.
In Archanes, get a local cooking lesson at a co-op café preserving traditional Cretan recipes.

HOTELS

INCLUDED

Stay:

14 Days
13 Nights

Meals:

12 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
5 Dinners

Treasures of Turkiye Istanbul, Ancient Ephesus & Cappadocia

Mon, 18 May 26 04:00:13 +0000

MUST-SEE INCLUSIONS

Visit Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul’s Golden Horn (UNESCO) district.
Cruise the Bosphorus Strait between Europe and Asia.
Walk through the ruins of Ancient Ephesus in the footsteps of Paul the Apostle.

CULINARY INCLUSIONS

Taste your way around Istanbul’s Golden Horn district and Spice Market.
Learn family recipes during a hands-on cooking class at a restaurant in Cappadocia.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Experience a transcendent Whirling Dervishes ceremony.
Cruise the Dalyan River to the Aegean Coast.
Explore the towering rock formations of Cappadocia and underground cities of past civilizations.

HOTELS

INCLUDED

Stay:

14 Days
13 Nights

Meals:

12 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
7 Dinners

2026 Scottish & Irish Dream - 13 Days/12 Nights

Sat, 16 May 26 04:00:10 +0000

Authentic Local Experiences:

August 2 – 23 departures will have reserved seats for the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. All other departures will experience an exclusive Scottish Evening with dinner and traditional entertainment.
Sample a wee dram as you explore whisky making at Blair Athol Distillery.
Visit a traditional farm to see sheepdogs demonstrate their skills at herding sheep.

Dining Experiences:

12 hot breakfasts (B), 2 lunches (L) and 8 dinners (D)*
*Meal counts vary on Tattoo departures, as the Scottish Evening is replaced with the Tattoo and an independent dinner.

Trip Highlights:

Blarney Castle
Cliffs of Moher
Edinburgh Castle
Inveraray Castle
Irish Night in Killarney
Little Museum of Dublin
Medieval Castle Banquet
Ring of Kerry
Scottish Evening*
Sheepdog Demonstration
Skellig Experience
St Andrews
Titanic Belfast

Hotels:

Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel, Glasgow (1)
Ballachulish Hotel or Isles of Glencoe Hotel, Ballachulish (1)
Muthu Newton Hotel, Nairn (1)
Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry (2)
Norton House Hotel & Spa, near Edinburgh (2)
Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge (or Maldron Hotel Kevin Street – Monday departures) Dublin (2)
Killarney Towers Hotel (or Gleneagle Hotel – Monday departures), Killarney (2)
Clayton Hotel Limerick, Limerick (1)

2026 Scottish Dream - 9 Days/8 Nights

Sat, 16 May 26 04:00:10 +0000

Authentic Local Experiences:

Expect an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theatre and dance with reserved seats for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on August 2 – 23 departures. All other departures will experience an exclusive Scottish Evening with dinner and traditional entertainment.
Immerse yourself in farm life to see how a farmer works with highly-skilled dogs to herd sheep.

Dining Experiences:

8 hot breakfasts (B), 1 lunch (L) and 5 dinners (D)
*Meal counts vary on Tattoo departures, as the Scottish Evening is replaced with the Tattoo and an independent dinner.

Trip Highlights:

Blair Athol Distillery
Blair Castle
Culloden Battlefield
Edinburgh Castle
Cruise on Loch Lomond
Inveraray Castle
Isle of Skye
St Andrews
Scottish Evening*

Hotels:

Sandman Signature Glasgow Hotel, Glasgow (1)
Ballachulish Hotel or Isles of Glencoe Hotel, Ballachulish (1)
Muthu Newton Hotel, Nairn or Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport, near Nairn (1)
Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry or Crieff Hydro Hotel, Crieff (2)
Norton House Hotel & Spa, near Edinburgh (3)

2026 The Irish Pub Tour- 8 Days/7 Nights

Sat, 16 May 26 04:00:10 +0000

Authentic Local Experiences:

Walk in the footsteps of John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara on a guided walking tour of Cong, County Mayo, where The Quiet Man was filmed.
Treat your ears to the lively sounds of Irish music at the historic Marine Bar in Dungarvan.

Dining Experiences:

7 hot breakfasts (B) and 6 dinners (D)

Trip Highlights:

Beer Tasting in Kilkenny
Blarney Castle
Celtic Whiskey Bar in Killarney
Cliffs of Moher
Dingle Peninsula
Guinness Storehouse
Jameson Distillery Bow St.
Marine Bar in Dungarvan (CIE Tours Exclusive)
Sean’s Bar in Athlone
Sheepdog Demonstration

Hotels:

Croke Park Hotel, Dublin (1)
Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel, Kilkenny (1)
International Hotel, Killarney (2)
Galway Bay Hotel, Salthill, Galway (1)
Sheraton Athlone Hotel, Athlone (1)

2026 Taste of Scotland - 6 Days/5 Nights

Sat, 16 May 26 04:00:10 +0000

Authentic Local Experiences:

Expect an unforgettable evening of music, ceremony, theater, and dance with reserved seats for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on August 4 – 25 departures. All other departures will experience an exclusive Scottish Evening with dinner and traditional entertainment.
Tour Blair Athol Distillery to learn about centuries-old whisky-making traditions and taste a dram.
Soak in the spectacular scenery as you cruise the mysterious, deep waters of legendary Loch Ness.

Dining Experiences:

5 breakfasts (B) and 3 dinners (D)
*Meal counts vary on Tattoo departures, as the Scottish Evening is replaced with the Tattoo and an independent dinner.

Trip Highlights:

Blair Athol Distillery
Loch Ness Cruise
St Andrews
Edinburgh Castle
Scottish Evening*

Hotels:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Glasgow Central, Glasgow (1)
Muthu Newton Hotel, Nairn (1)
Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club, near Edinburgh (3)