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Top reasons to book your tour package with Air Canada Vacations

With fall in the air, it’s time for Canadians to start planning next year’s travels to Europe. Whether you’re dreaming of a sun-kissed adventure through Italy, a vibrant exploration of Iceland or a multi-country adventure through Vienna, Prague and Salzburg, here are our top reasons to book your upcoming European escape with Air Canada Vacations: 1. So...

Are you ready for your next trip to Europe? The European Union’s new, automated, digital entry and exit system for non-EU nationals – including citizens of the U.S. and Canada – will be implemented starting October 12, 2025. The EU’s long-delayed new digital border control process is called EES: Entry/Exit System. Sadly, for nostalgic passport stamp collectors, the...

While Munich’s Oktoberfest gets all the press as the world’s most famous fall festival, autumn is a season of celebration around the world. Ancient cultures thanked the gods for abundance and prayed for their families to survive the leaner months ahead. The harvest traditions that have been passed through the ages and centuries still today give...

The festive season is no longer just about gathering ‘round the hearth and home; it’s increasingly becoming the perfect time to pack a bag and head somewhere new. More travelers are choosing to spend Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year’s, and other holidays on vacation, whether that means a European Christmas market river cruise, a beach escape in...

Welcome to our home and our heritage. To a timeless treasure chest of art, history, and architecture. To a renaissance of culture that revives your soul as you roam charming cobblestoned streets, seaside villages, and hidden islands. Uncover hundreds of UNESCO sites and countless wonders beyond the beaten path. Journey through a living anthology, from the...

The Freedom to Choose Your Own AdventureTraveling alone means the itinerary is yours to craft. Want to sleep in late, explore hidden streets at your own pace, or splurge on a bucket-list experience without consulting anyone? You're in control. Unlike group trips, there’s no need to compromise or adjust for someone else’s preferences. Freedom becomes your...

Instead of a to-do list to check off during your next tropical vacation, the island of St. Kitts invites you to celebrate slow travel: log off, unplug from your devices, and reconnect with yourself and nature with a range of restorative experiences the length and breadth of this 18-mile-long Caribbean island. St. Kitts is the larger of...

How is Celebrity Cruises bringing their revolutionary, ‘Edge-class’ ocean ship design and lifestyle to the rivers of Europe? The cruise line has now revealed at least part of its vision with renderings of their first two river ships: Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker, prior to their launch on the Rhine and Danube rivers in 2027. This comes...

“Set-jetting” to locations in Britain means that you don’t have to say goodbye to the beloved characters of Downton Abbey, even if the final film has been released. The clever play on words has been coined by Visit Britain to reflect how popular visiting film and TV set locations is for visitors to the U.K. They say...

New York’s Waldorf Astoria hotel is one of just a handful of hotels around the globe that’s a household name synonymous with luxury, society and history. After closing in 2017, the legendary hotel has resumed its place at the apex of New York and global hospitality following a transformational restoration of ballrooms, suites, dining venues and...

Whether you crave quiet moments of reflection, thrilling adventures in the wild, or a chance to immerse yourself in culture and wellness, the way you travel says a lot about what matters most to you. Ultra-luxury cruising offers something unique for every kind of traveller. It is not just about opulence but about creating space to enjoy...

There’s big news for cruisers! Shout-out to Carnival’s next ship, Carnival Festivale™, setting sail in 2027 from Galveston with immersive experiences in its pocket, family fun in its heart, and music in its soul. The name may nod to one of Carnival’s earliest ships, but this is something completely new. Think of it as a floating...

Five //Quito & the Galápagos Islands, EcuadorStart your journey in Quito, a colonial capital high in the Andes and packed with churches, plazas, and panoramic viewpoints. Then head west to the Galápagos Islands, a living laboratory of evolution. With fearless wildlife, dramatic volcanic terrain, and protected marine reserves, the Galápagos offer one of the world’s most...

Wild & WonderfulUnforgettable travel experiences throughout North, Central, and South AmericaWhether you're navigating the ice-chiseled fjords of Alaska, basking on Costa Rica’s golden beaches, or tracing ancient pathways through the Andes, North, Central, and South America reveal a world of striking landscapes, wildly diverse cultures, and epic stories shaped by both nature and time.Alaska – The...

Start up north, where modern city skylines collide with jaw-dropping wilderness. The electric energy of New York City pulses through every corner, from Broadway’s bright lights to street food that satisfies every craving. Shift to Canada’s Banff National Park, where turquoise lakes shimmer beneath towering peaks and hiking trails lead to views that hit like a...

When you dream of a vacation, do you imagine towering glaciers, soaring eagles overhead and fresh-caught salmon — or kicking back on a breezy beach with a refreshing drink? Alaska and the Caribbean are two of Princess’s most-booked destinations, and they shine even brighter aboard Star Princess®.Find your Caribbean paradise with PrincessThe Caribbean is what travel...

You know that feeling when you're caught between two desires? You want to explore new, exciting places and experience different cultures. But you also want a vacation that's truly relaxing — one where you can simply unwind and soak in the experience. Princess Cruises makes it easy to find that perfect balance. They’ve perfected the art of delivering...

For those who are looking for every way in the world to see the world, Globus offers a ticket to AWESOME. From the classic tours that made them famous to independent and private tours to off-season and off-the-beaten-path journeys, Globus has a travel style and itinerary to match every wayfarer, every wanderer, and every budget.Whether travelers...

Private, after-hours Scenic Enrich cultural events, just for guests of Scenic ocean and river cruises, take a luxury voyage to next-level privilege. Here are my experiences of three Scenic Enrich events from recent ocean and river journeys. By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert. Travel in any way makes us feel special and takes us out of...

They say ’50 is the new 30!’ And now there’s a new brand of travel experiences - designed just for this new generation of travelers - with maturity, busy lives, high expectations, established tastes and as active as ever. Upscale guided travel company Tauck is tapping into the energy of travelers in their 40s and 50s...

The hotels for the hip are joining the all-inclusive trend. W Hotels, known for avant-garde design, luxurious amenities, music, fashion, and art scenes that create buzzy social hubs for creatives and stylish professionals, is bringing its "Whatever/Whenever" service, distinctive local programming and iconic bars and restaurants to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, in its first all-inclusive location. W...

Cruising Gets a New “Star:” Royal Caribbean’s Latest Icon Class Ship Debuts

Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas has launched in a glittering ceremony. The line’s latest Icon-class ship’s christening event lit up Port Canaveral, Florida. You might say it was ‘written in the stars,’ as the mega-ship’s godmother, research astronaut Kellie Gerardi, named the ship and set it on its inaugural voyage. The ages-old tradition of bestowing safekeeping...

Trafalgar has created unforgettable memories for over five million guests. Now, the same local connections, iconic sights and seamless service are brought to the rivers of Europe. With Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences on every itinerary, you’ll meet locals, support sustainability and create moments that truly matter.From vineyard-lined valleys to lively cities and...

Winter is a great time to discover new travel destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy wilderness or the beaches of the tropics, there are uncountable travel ideas for winter. It’s a season of unique magic, from snowy cities to quiet, sunny escapes.You can explore the best places to travel in winter with Collette's expertly-guided tours....

Thinner Crowds. Thicker Wallets.Picture this: walking through Westminster Abbey without shoulder-to-shoulder tourists, standing in front of Michelangelo's David with room to truly appreciate the masterpiece, or strolling through ancient European cobblestone streets at your own pace. This isn't just wishful thinking—it's the reality of traveling during the off-season with Globus Escapes.While many travelers assume summer is...

National Dog Day is August 26 – during peak summer travel. Nearly three-quarters of pet parents travel with their furry friends every year on domestic and international trips, and there’s still time to plan your next getaway this season. No matter how you’re traveling, bringing along Fido means extra steps to make sure your dog –...

There’s more than sushi and Mount Fuji in Japan! Travel to the poetically-nicknamed Land of the Rising Sun has never been more popular, but too many visitors never get beyond the country’s big three destinations of Tokyo, Osaka and ancient Kyoto. Of course, you’ll want to savor the skyscrapers, cutting-edge technology, anime, gaming, neon nightlife and street...

Train travel within Europe – and to Europe from London via the Chunnel – just keeps getting easier and better. Eurostar, which operates the largest international high-speed rail network in Western Europe, has recently announced new routes that will tickle your itch to ride the rails. Its just-announced new destinations will be served by new trains,...

A 46-foot hummingbird sculpture has taken flight in Montego Bay, Jamaica. It’s the world’s largest – and celebrates the Caribbean country’s one-of-a-kind national bird, the streamer-tail hummingbird, found only in Jamaica. While hummingbirds are found in many countries in North and South America, the streamer-tail, which is also affectionately known as the Doctor Bird for the...

Gin is hot – resurging in popularity as one of the spirits most identified with cocktails that harness ice and botanical flavors in cool, stylish cocktails. So what better place to make this cooling spirit than inside the world’s largest ice tunnel, in a country famous for its glaciers and wild nature? Into the Glacier offers visitors...

You can’t actually celebrate Christmas in July in Europe… but it’s the perfect time to plan a Christmas market visit to celebrate the season. There really is no better way to get into the spirit of the holidays than to immerse yourself in the markets, traditions, food, beverages, arts and crafts of the lands and cultures...

American Cruise Lines celebrated Independence Day 2025 – and started its countdown to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 – with the launch of its newest class of ships. Sticking with the theme, the small and river ship cruise line christened the American Patriot in Newport, Rhode Island, on July 4th. American Patriot is the first of the...

Don’t fight the heat on holiday in Mexico this summer – escape it altogether! While Mexico’s coastal hotspots heat up for the summer, savvy travelers are moving up — literally — to uncover the breezy mountain escapes of the Pacific state of Nayarit. Away from the beach crowds and humid shorelines, these mountainous Magical Towns ("Pueblo Magico"), plus one...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has revealed the Skyview Regent Suite on the upcoming Seven Seas Prestige… and it’s the biggest – and the priciest – suite in cruise ship history! Fares for the nearly 8,800-square-foot, 2-level suite start at (!) $25,000 – per night! Regent welcomes the 822-guest Seven Seas Prestige in late 2026. The new ship...

VIDEO: Meet the Local Chef Bringing Greenland Fine Dining to Arctic Cruises

If you’re thinking about an Arctic expedition cruise to experience extraordinary land and seascapes, iconic wildlife sightings, and Inuit cultural immersion… add to that list Quark Expedition's onboard Arctic fine dining experience - a gastronomic tour de force that will open your eyes – and your palate – to an entirely new perspective on the flavors...

Luxury Tourism and Sustainability: A Perfect Balance in the Dominican Republic The Dominican Republic, a Caribbean gem known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, has become a leading destination for luxury tourism. Yet, as the world increasingly emphasizes sustainable travel, the country has risen to the challenge of blending opulence with environmental and social...

VIDEO: Scenic or Emerald? Which of These Sister Yacht Cruises is Best for You?

Small ship cruising is bigger than ever, and one company specializes in yachts under two brands: Scenic and Emerald. But which is best for you? It is, you might say, like choosing between diamonds and, well, emeralds! They’re both gems, but which jewel-box yacht suits your personal travel taste and style best? Here's my comparison to help...

Helsinki is emphasizing its ‘warm’ welcome to visitors with the first-ever airport runway sauna. That’s likely the only Finnish word you know – and no surprise! Finland’s version of a steam bath is a cornerstone of the country’s identity and lifestyle – one that’s spread around the world. Saunas are even credited as one important reason Finland...

Travel beyond Hong Kong’s dazzling skyscrapers, historic backstreets and a skyline that ranks among the most stunning in the world. Away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong Island, there are over 260 more islands, 450 miles of coastline, and a UNESCO Geopark that straddles land and sea. A new, island-hopping boat tour lets visitors get...

At least not until you are home. According to one survey by a travel insurance company, nearly one-third of active social media users are at risk of a home break-in by alerting the bad guys through their posts. So, as high travel season approaches, social media experts are reminding travelers keen to share their vacation experiences...

Puffins are a lot like penguins: among the most beloved, iconic and recognizable seabirds – yet occupying the opposite ends of the planet in some of the most remote regions of the Earth. So seeing either of them in the wild is a magical travel experience. Unlike tuxedoed penguins with their mostly monochrome coloring, puffins are often...

Competition between airlines is heating up, and a U.S.-based airline is the latest to up the ante to attract guests, especially to its premium cabins. We’ve heard lots about lavish life in the skies on some Asian and Middle Eastern airlines – now, United Airlines is giving the famously luxe airlines a taste of their own...

It’s time to go ‘off’ travel. Yes, you read that right. Two of the smartest trends in travel are about visiting bucket list destinations when everyone else isn’t, and finding new destinations other people have yet to discover. Here’s why. OFF SEASONYour choice of travel season can make a big difference to your experience and travel budget. And...

If the famous line, "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife,” makes you smile affectionately and fantasize about the green pastures, elegant architecture, style and social intrigues of Regency Britain, you are not alone. For two centuries, Jane Austen’s witty, observant...

VIDEO: Incredible Tulip Time Scenes from an Emerald River Cruise in the Netherlands

Windmills and tulips and river cruising, oh my! Springtime serves up the most iconic sights and moments of Dutch culture – and a river cruise may be the best way to experience them all. Our Emerald river cruise sailed round trip from Amsterdam, navigating the Netherlands’ vast network of inland waterways, canals and rivers through countryside, picturesque...

Compared to many aspects of air travel, modernizing baggage handling seems, well, pretty ‘delayed.’ Am I the only person who is astounded at the fact that, as airport security has tightened so much when it comes to travelers and their water bottles, people can still just pull any bag off a carousel and walk out the...

Why Googling “Celebrity Cruises phone number” could cost you more than your drink package.Let me tell you a quick story.A couple had booked a dreamy Celebrity cruise through their trusted travel advisor. Everything was set—balcony cabin, shore excursions, the works. But a week later, they realized they forgot to add the drink package. They didn’t want...

Beginning in 2026, fans of Trafalgar tours have another way to enjoy the expert guidance, meaningful local experiences, cultural immersion and ease of travel they’ve come to expect from their Trafalgar trips. In fact, with the company’s new river cruise ships, you’ll now be able to unpack once for your entire journey as your floating hotel...

Disney fans collecting theme park visits will soon have a new and spectacular destination to compare cherished characters, memorable experiences and new thrills. The Walt Disney company has announced plans for its 7th park. The uniquely waterfront resort will be located on an island in futuristic Abu Dhabi. The Yas Island Disney park will combine Disney’s iconic...

It’s only champagne if it’s from Champagne. Ham from Parma is equally exclusive. And now, some rum producers in Jamaica are causing quite a ‘stir’– working to tighten rules that identify varieties of the Caribbean’s most famous spirit by ‘appellation’ or geographic origin. Champagne, Parma ham, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and many other foods, wine and spirits work...