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20 Best Winter Vacation Ideas

Where is the best place to vacation in winter? That depends on what you’re after – whether that’s chasing the sun, getting cozy, discovering new experiences, or ticking destinations off your bucket lists while avoiding the crowds. Discover our 20 best winter vacation ideas below.Best winter vacation ideas for warm weather Singapore While Singapore never gets cold like...

The Danube River, Europe's second-longest waterway, has long been a conduit for trade, culture and exploration. Today, it offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to experience some of Europe's most captivating cities. AmaWaterways' new 7-night roundtrip itinerary, Best of the Danube, provides an enchanting journey that includes visits to the grand capitals of Bratislava, Vienna and Budapest,...

Viking® believes in offering you extraordinarily well-designed voyages that bring you closer to the cultures of the world. Its intimate vessels sail into the heart of your destination—where new discoveries are just a short walk from your ship.One of the best ways to immerse yourself in new cultures is to explore the world by river. That...

Plan Ahead – Start by making a list of your dream destinations and the types of vacations you are interested in, such as beach getaways, city breaks, or adventurous escapes. Having a clear idea of what you want will enable you to act swiftly when those amazing deals are announced.Set a Budget – Establish how much...

The holidays are just around the corner, and nothing gets you into the spirit of the season like a pre-Christmas trip to Europe, where so many of our favorite festive traditions originated. Europe’s Christmas markets, many of which have been around since the Middle Ages, are magical places to embrace the holiday spirit and celebrate in the...

VIDEO: Size Matters: Tour of One of Europe’s Largest River Ships, Riverside Mozart

The Riverside Mozart is the ultimate floating luxury boutique hotel on the river – as you can see in the video, it’s about double the size of almost all other river cruise ships in Europe, but there aren’t double the guests. That’s a game-changer! To me, it felt more like sailing on a luxury, small ocean ship...

VIDEO: Captain of Scenic Eclipse Shares What it’s Like to Navigate in Antarctica

Is Antarctica on your travel bucket list? The White Continent is the ultimate expedition cruising destination: literally at the end of the earth, and able to be reached only by ship, with its epic scenery of glaciers, icebergs, and surprisingly rich wildlife, including several varieties of penguins, elephant seals, whales and more, Antarctica has remained just...

If the world seems noisier and more chaotic than ever to you – you’re not alone. As life gets more stressful, online searches for ‘quiet travel’ have shot up like your blood pressure. One of the first places savvy travelers look to disconnect and rediscover tranquillity in nature is Costa Rica. The Central American country’s famous way...

It’s never a bad time to sprinkle a little bit of romance into your life! As we sail into the new year, a Carnival cruise is the perfect way to step away from the hustle and bustle of life in exchange for some time with your love. These destinations also keep the sunny days coming all...

Japan, with its harmonious blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, offers an unforgettable travel experience that goes beyond the ordinary. With Exotik Journeys', you’ll uncover Japan’s less-traveled paths, making for a truly immersive adventure that reveals the country’s charm and mystery. Whether it’s your first journey to Japan or a return to experience something different...

On safari in Africa, it’s the ‘Big 5’ signature species. But on the other side of the world, in another extraordinary landscape, the can’t miss, iconic wildlife is summed up on the ‘Bis 15’ list. Many are found nowhere else on earth other than in the Galapagos islands. Their unparalleled biodiversity famously inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution....

There’s the North Pole… and there’s the “North Pole of Inaccessibility.” Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot has done something no ship of any kind has ever done before. In the 21st century, it’s hard to imagine there’s a place on earth humans have never been, but close to the end of the 2024 Arctic cruise/ sailing season,...

Sun Princess has arrived in Ft. Lauderdale for her first winter season after the 4300-guest ship’s inaugural Mediterranean season. The latest “Love Boat” to join the Princess Cruises fleet has arrived in her new homeport, to begin sailing a series of seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises, roundtrip through early April 2025. Guests are already raving about...

Good news for visitors to Mexico!

UNPLUG AND STARGAZE IN THE ARABIAN DESERTIf you’re tired of city lights stealing your stars, then escape to Liwa Nights. The luxurious Bedouin-style oasis is nestled in the heart of the Empty Quarter for unparalleled stargazing – where constellations come alive, and the Milky Way is a breathtaking spectacle. Immerse yourself in nature while mingling with...

In our quest for a deeper connection with foreign lands, exploring culinary landscape offers a gateway to the heart of each destination. Whether it’s the bold flavors of South America, the diverse and tropical undertones of Caribbean island cooking, or the aromatic fragrances of Indian cuisine, savoring the local cuisine of exotic destinations can be transformative...

Written by Laura Lazzaroni March 14, 2024On the last day of our Mediterranean cruise aboard Silver Dawn, we’re sitting at the long table under the pergola at chef Peppe Guida’s breathtaking agriturismo Villa Rosa, in the hills 20 minutes from Sorrento. We’re a stone’s throw from Nonna Rosa, his iconic Michelin-starred restaurant. Savoring memories of picking vegetables...

From the remains of ancient Inca civilizations to the beauty of the Andes and its contemporary culture, let yourself be surprised by this magical destination.Top attractionsOne of Peru's main attractions is the emblematic Inca city of Machu Picchu, perched high in the mountains. One of the 7 Wonders of the World, this mysterious city is an...

CELEBRITY XCEL℠ TO DEBUT IN EUROPE AND MULTIPLE OTHER ‘FIRSTS’ REVEALED IN CELEBRITY CRUISES® 2026-2027 SEASON Experience a premium journey at sea in every corner of the world on board Celebrity Cruises’® 2026-2027 deployment. The world has never looked better with more than 600 sailings to over 280 destinations in over 70 countries across all seven continents....

This holiday season, why not go beyond the typical gifts and give something truly unforgettable? Gift the ultimate experience — an adventure that creates lifelong memories and lets you sail into the new year feeling relaxed and reconnected (the way vacations are meant to be).With Princess Cruises, gift-giving is easier than ever. You can offer your...

Europe? Always a good idea. Think you've done it all? Think again. Fresh tales, iconic flavours, and jaw-dropping views are still on the menu. Grab your bags and get set because Collette's got a European bucket list for you that's anything but basic.1. Chase Fairytales in Vienna's Schönbrunn PalaceFollow in the footsteps of royalty through the grand...

As we look ahead to 2025, we’re thrilled to introduce some fresh and exciting travel experiences that are perfect for both seasoned travelers and first-time explorers. With new itineraries, new locals to meet, and new sustainable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, this sneak peak to what’s coming is sure to inspire your next trip.New tours:Charms of the...

New digital border processing and hall at SXM airport mean arriving for your next trip to the Caribbean’s famous twin-nation island will be faster, easier, and better than ever before. But you do have to get online and fill out the new forms before you check in to your flight to St. Maarten.Mandatory Digital Forms for...

VIDEO: Emerald Captain Shares Why a Mega-Yacht is the Best Way to Cruise the Caribbean

If you thought sailing to small islands and boutique harbors in idyllic tropical places was just for billionaires in their private yachts, think again. Even you can feel like a billionaire on one of Emerald Cruises’ two new mega-yachts. We sailed aboard the Emerald Sakara on a ‘yachtsman’s itinerary’ from San Juan, Puerto Rico, weaving through the...

Following the recent inauguration of its pioneering coastal China cruises, Viking has announced six new itineraries in Asia that will expand exclusive access for its guests to Japan and China, with Tibet in 2025. The new voyages will explore iconic destinations in China, such as Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an and Lhasa in Tibet (Xizang), as well as...

Silversea is taking a groundbreaking approach to ultra-luxury Antarctic expedition cruising – literally! The cruise line has broken ground on a hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, to create a seamlessly deluxe experience for its guests on their voyages to the White Continent.Silversea is the only cruise line that homeports from Puerto Williams during the Antarctic season....

Atlas Ocean Voyages, the small-ship cruise line that expanded the concept of expedition cruising from remote, polar exploration to include concepts like its ‘Epicurean Expeditions,’ has debuted “The Explorer’s Table.” It’s a new, specialty dining option only available to guests on its ships in Antarctica and the High Arctic. An exclusive Omakase-style dining experience, The Explorer’s Table...

During a spectacular naming ceremony in Civitavecchia – the port for Rome, Italy – Explora Journeys launched Explora II. The September, 2024 event marked the debut of the second of six ships by the lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group. Explora Journeys promises guests the opportunity to experience an “Ocean State of Mind,” connecting...

The first and only luxury hotel company to take to the sea has welcomed Ilma, its second newbuild, ultra-luxury ‘superyacht’. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s latest small ship is host to fewer than 500 guests in its 224 ‘airy and intuitive’ suites, all with private terraces providing direct access to the sea. The Ilma also offers guests world-class...

Stop and think before you nonchalantly pack all your digital devices on your next trip to Mexico. A growing number of reports warn tourists that Mexican border officials are increasingly enforcing old laws about entering the country with electronic items – and it’s costing unsuspecting travelers hundreds of dollars in import duties. In our increasingly digital world,...

It’s one of the most iconic and elegant landmarks of Sin City, and for the first time in its 25-year history, the iconic Fountains of Bellagio has a new show – it’s 40th – and one that’s been choreographed by a guest! Inspired by the villages of Europe, the Bellagio, which is operated by MGM Resorts International,...

VIDEO TOUR: Panorama Suite on Scenic Eclipse During an Antarctic Expedition Cruise

One of the most remarkable things about sailing aboard the Scenic Eclipse in the Antarctic is the contrast between the wild remoteness just outside… and feeling like you’re a guest at a chic boutique hotel in any stylish urban hot spot in the world. One minute, you’re in a zodiac heading towards a colony of penguins on...

The only surviving ancient Wonder of the world is still sharing new secrets – thousands of years after construction. No wonder experiencing Egypt’s pyramids is one of the bucket list trips of all time for so many travelers. The ancient Egyptian pyramids we can all picture are located on the Giza plateau in Cairo, which is home to...

Windstar Cruises’ brand-new ship debuts in early 2026, and reservations have opened for Star Seeker’s inaugural season in Alaska, Japan and the Caribbean. The small ship cruise line last sailed in Japan and Alaska in 2023. Star Seeker is currently under construction in Europe and is scheduled to debut at the end of 2025 and join Windstar’s...

On a river cruise with AmaWaterways, you will embark on a journey of unparalleled experiences. When you decide to explore the storied rivers in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America with the line, you will step on board your spacious ship, where you only need to unpack once before taking in the sights, cultures and historic...

Being a dog lover is a 24/7/365 thing, but the annual International Dog Day on August 26 gives everyone – including hotel companies – an excuse to recognize the canine companions in our lives. More hotels than ever are pup-friendly, and for International Dog Day, a couple of hotel companies are creating tail-wagging fun and rolling...

The pickleball craze continues! Not content to dominate community parks around North America, the sociable, ‘tennis light’ paddle sport is taking root in holiday destinations – not just on land resorts and hotels, but also at sea, and, in the latest twist, overwater! Pickleball on the Rivers of EuropeAmaWaterways made waves when it became the first river...

Marriott Cancun, An All-Inclusive Resort, has opened its doors to guests. The newest resort for Marriott Hotels is more proof of two growing travel trends: multi-generational family vacations and redefining the increasingly popular all-inclusive holiday. There are 600 Marriott Hotels around the world, and this marks the first all-inclusive in the namesake chain of hotels that’s part...

A new selection of activities for visitors to Australia allow you to experience the country’s history and nature, with the added richness of Aboriginal culture. Australia’s Aboriginal people are the island continent's original inhabitants, with a history that dates back over 65,000 years. That makes them one of the world’s oldest continuous cultures. A revival of Australian...

Gin is in! Cocktail culture is back, and one of the original ingredients of cocktails is having a renaissance, too. MSC Cruises has ‘tapped’ into the of-the-moment trend that’s seen a boom in types of gin and new gin cocktails. The cruise line is introducing new drinks fleet-wide to join in its lineup of cool summer sips. For...

You don’t have to travel half way around the world to the South Pacific to experience the romance and luxury of overwater suites. Antigua is the latest Caribbean island to bring overwater luxe close to home. The newly opened Royalton CHIC Antigua, is an all-inclusive, adults-only resort and part of An Autograph Collection, with its signature sophistication...

There will soon be two new places in the U.S. to visit China’s iconic and endearing national animal. The giant panda, with its unmistakeable black and white markings and adorable fuzzy features, is a keystone species and symbol of global conservations efforts – and it’s one of the ‘bucket list’ animals many people want to experience...

Your next vacation may be the perfect time to take up shinrin-yoku, or ‘forest bathing.’ Wellness fans around the world are embracing the Japanese practice of immersing yourself deeply into the atmosphere of the woods, and the broader concept of spending more time in nature to improve your health and well-being. Renowned for their centuries-old practices...

Surf’s Up! The Summer Games Competition Happening 10,000 Miles from Paris

On the other side of the earth from the epicenter of the Paris Summer Games, one competition is returning to its roots – while still flying the French flag. For the second Summer Games in a row, surfing is part of the Olympic Games. And while many of the Summer Games competitions are spread around the...

VIDEO: Stunning Scenic Sailing on Europe’s Danube River Aboard the Riverside Mozart

It’s some of the most incredible scenery along the middle Danube River! One of the absolute highlights of our river cruise on the Danube through Austria aboard the Riverside Mozart was the daytime scenic sailing through the wondrous ‘Danube Snare.’ The Danube is Europe’s longest river and the middle Danube is one of the most popular...

Plenty of cruise lines swear they serve the best pizza. But only one cruise line can now claim to hold the Guinness World Record for World’s Largest Pizza Party. Over 60,000 slices of pie were served fresh from the oven over multiple ships across the Princess Cruises fleet simultaneously in July, 2024 to set the record. World’s...

Norway is so famous for its fjords, the Norwegian word has become part of the international travel dialect. In languages around the world, ‘fjord’ means a deep, natural sea channel reaching far inland, surrounded by dramatic cliffs carved millennia ago by glaciers on their way to the sea. According to Visit Norway, the word ‘fjord’ has Viking...

Discover the Magic of a Late Summer Getaway Summer is not just a season; it's a feeling – a blend of warm breezes, sun-kissed skin, and the spirit of adventure that beckons you to explore the world beyond your doorstep. Late summer also marks a sweet spot for travelers looking to maximize value without compromising on experiences. This...

Building family fun on a cruise vacation couldn’t be easier. When the new MSC World America launches in April, 2025, it will have an over 10,0000 square foot kids’ area, complete with an enhanced partnership with LEGO that will offer first-at-sea experiences. Plus the only over-water swing ride – the ‘Cliffhanger’ - towering over 160 feet...

Nayarit’s stunning Pacific coastline, rich culture and lifestyle, seafood and traditional Mexican cuisine and charming towns have made it a magnet for beach vacation lovers. But which is the best beach for a holiday of lounging, swimming, snorkeling, diving and wildlife watching? One of the most popular areas is the Riviera Nayarit, a 200-mile stretch of coastline...