Many of you love the idea of a CLASSIC LUXURY product, and SILVERSEA fits that bill well.  They have small-ships with tuxedoed butlers, but without the stuffiness or snobbery.  Think: champagne without pretension, adventure without chaos, and comfort without compromise. 

Silversea has 8 small luxury ships that carry between 382 and 728 guests when fully loaded.  FIVE of those 8 vessels are less than 10 years old.  They also have an additional four EXPEDITION vessels that carry between 100 and 296 guests.  

Let’s break it down, Pampered Cruiser Style:

• BUTLERS for every suite.  More than a room steward.  It’s like a private concierge that offers room service, dining reservations, and other special surprises.
• SPACE: Bob and I were on Silver NOVA in December, and it felt like the ship was empty (it was over 90% capacity).  The amount of public space means there was always room. 
• ASYMMETRICAL DESIGN:  The NOVA, and its sister RAY have unique design features with the topside pool and funnel (for example) NOT centered between the starboard and port sides.  This enables more windows, and its public areas all clustered together, making it easier to get around.
• SERVICE: On the mega-ships, there are almost 4 passengers for each crew member.  On SilverSea, there are 1.5 guests for each crew member.  You’ll be well taken care of.
• INCLUSIONS:  Silversea includes butlers, dining, gratuities, wifi, and all beverages.  
• DINING:  On Nova there are 8 different restaurants to eat at, as well as 24-hour room service.  At La Dame, Kaiseki, and SALT Chef’s Table, there’s an upcharge.  I’m NOT a big fan of onboard charges, but in fairness there are several other choices.
• SALT (Sea And Land Taste):  Silversea has made a concerted effort to bring the food of the region you are sailing through on board the ship. We were in Australia and New Zealand, and experienced food and wine distinctive to each of those countries. 
• SHORE EXCURSIONS:  In 2025, Silversea stopped including shore excursions in the fare (don’t worry if you were already booked with shore-ex, they have you grandfathered).  From a cruise-value point of view it will be better for most people.  Anything “included” is in fact pre-paid, and preferences for shore excursions are highly individual, so it’s better to make your own choices.
• STATEROOMS:  Silversea has an all-suite fleet with just about all the rooms having a veranda, walk-in closet, marble bathrooms, and plenty of space. 
• DESTINATIONS:  Silversea is on ALL 7 continents.  With a fleet of 12 ships, there’s really not anywhere you can’t visit on Silversea. 

Silversea is one of our preferred vendors, and we can always get you additional amenities not available on direct bookings.  Many Silversea voyages have HOSTS from our agency on board that come with an exclusive shore event OR an additional onboard credit. 

In Case You Missed It:

PREDICTIONS for TRAVEL in 2026.  Here’s some insight into the trends we see for 2026:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/preview-of-2026/

HOW THE TRAVEL BIZ WORKS:  How does cruise line pricing work?  How do WE fit into the overall Leisure Travel Industry, and how do we differentiate? 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/how-the-travel-biz-works/

CANADA:  It’s right next door, and it’s HUGE.  Far too large to be considered a single destination.  There’s lots to explore from Coast to Coast to Coast (yes – three of them, and more miles of coastline than any other country in the world). 

Canada: https://pamperedcruiser.com/destination-canada/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

VANCOUVER CITY GUIDE:  Most Alaska cruises start or finish in Vancouver.  Here’s a quick look at what to do in Vancouver pre or post cruise:

https://youtu.be/Dtn_1BR_z3k

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

Have something to say about this?

Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PamperedCruiser/posts/pfbid02uDELUesVjB9TTgdWbP62UbcuVorLW8XnCW9mGY7yyWpdNC4LRaVkMpT6CjkoXVF4l

Today’s Travel Opportunities

SILVERSEA Class Luxury

As our featured vendor in February, we can get you additional amenities not available on direct bookings: 

CANADA & NEW ENGLAND:  New Jersey to Montreal departing October 13 for 11-days

• Start in Bayonne (NJ), and visit Newport, Cape Cod, Boston, Portland, Halifax, Charlottetown, Saguenay, Quebec City, and end in Montreal. 
• Fares from $8160

EASTERN MED:  Athens round-trip departing October 5 for 7-days:

• Start in Athens, and visit Heraklion, Rhodes, Kusadasi (for Ephesus), Mykonos, Nafplion, and end in Athens. 
• Fares from $4980

JAPAN:  Tokyo round-trip departing March 29, 2027 for 14-days

• Start in Tokyo, and visit Shimizu, Nagoya, Kochi, Kobe, Nagasaki, Busan, Sakaiminato, Kanazawa, Hakodate (Hokkaido), Aomori, and end in Yokohama (Tokyo)
• Fares from $9600 

PANAMA CANAL:  Miami to Los Angeles departing December 21 for 18-days

• Start in Miami, and visit Cartagena, transit the Panama Canal, Puntarenas, Puerto Quetzal, Puerto Vallarta, San Diego, and end in Los Angeles. 
• Fares from $8240

WESTERN MED: Rome to Barcelona departing November 23 for 7-days

• Start in Rome, and visit Naples, Trapani, Tunis (La Goulette), Cagliari, Palma de Mallorca, and end in Barcelona 
• From $4560 with all inclusive 

UK & IRELAND:  London round-trip departing June 29 for 10-days

• Start in Southampton and visit Honfleur, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Holyhead, Cobh, Falmouth, Portland, and end in Southampton
• Fares from $6080

SCANDINAVIA:  Copenhagen to Amsterdam departing June 19, for 12-days

• Start in Copenhagen and visit Ronne, Gdansk, Liepaja, Riga, Tallinn, Helsinki, Stockholm, Skagen, and end in Amsterdam
• Fares from $6150

NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA:  Sydney to Auckland departing December 4 for 14-days

• Start in Sydney and visit Hobart, Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Stewart Island, Dunedin, Akaroa, Wellington, Napier, Gisborne, Tauranga, and end in Auckland. 
• Fares from $9270

CARIBBEAN:  Miami round-trip departing November 18 for 12-days

• Start in Miami and visit San Juan, St John (Virgin Islands), Gustavia, St. John’s (Antigua and Barbuda), Little Bay, St. Kitts (Basseterre), Jost Van Dyke (British Virgin Islands), and end in Miami. 
• Fares from $4800

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with SILVERSEA

Silversea has a fleet of 4 expedition vessels that will get you to the more remote corners of the globe in style and comfort:

AUSTRALIA’S KIMBERLY COAST:  Darwin to Broome departing July 14 for 10-days

• Start in Darwin and visit Ashmore Reef, Wyndham, King George River, Vansittart Bay (Jar Island), Hunter River Region, Buccaneer Archipelago Region, Buccaneer Archipelago Region, and end in Broome. 
• Fares from $8480

ANTARCTICA:  Round-trip Santiago departing October 25, 2027 for 10-days

• Board in Puerto Williams and traverse the Drake Passage, and then make several stops on the Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, and end in back Puerto Williams. 
• Fares from $10,920 and includes charter flights from Santiago.

PATAGONIA:  Puerto Williams to Valparaiso departing February 27, 2027 for 11-days

• Start in Puerto Williams and visit Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, Aguila Glacier, Chilean Fjords (no stop), Pio XI Glacier (no stop), English Narrows (no stop), Tortel, Chilean Fjords (no stop), Puerto Cisnes, Puerto Montt, and end in Valparaiso. 
• Fares from $8,080

SOUTH PACIFIC:  Tahiti to Santiago (Chile) departing October 12 for 23 days

• Start in Papeete (Tahiti) and visit Fakarava, Atuona – Hiva Oa, Tahuata, Hatiheu¸ Hanavave¸ Mangareva (Gambier Islands), Adamstown (Pitcairn Island), Easter Island, Alexander Selkirk Island, Robinson Caruso Island, and end in Santiago. 
• Fares from $17,910

SEA CLOUD Masted YACHTS

You may have been to some of these destinations previously, but imagine seeing them on a ship the size of a River Boat (with 130 guests, rather than 1300 guests).

Greek Isles (Athens round trip), departing July 17th/24th/or 31st 2026 (7 nights) 

• Details: https://issuu.com/seacloudcruisesusa/docs/sea_cloud_big_book_2026_/68
• Visit Amorgos, Milos, Amorgos, Nauplio, and Poros
• Brochure Price: starting at $6995 per person
• SPECIAL PRICE: From $3495 per person

Eastern Caribbean: round-trip Philipsburg departing December 6 for 8-nights

• Visit Dominica, Martinique, St. Lucia, Iles des Saintes, Nevis & Antigua.
• Sail the scenic Eastern Caribbean islands, and get into small coves and harbors on board the 136 guest Sea Cloud Spirit.  
• Fares from $3425

Learn more about Sea Cloud here: https://youtu.be/fy7Kfd1i3ZQ 

RIVER EXPERIENCES with AMA WATERWAYS

GOLF JOURNEYS on the DANUBE with AMA 

• These are great if you’d like to play 4 or 5 rounds of golf at different courses along your journey, with all the details taken care of for you.  Especially great for couples with only ONE golfer.
• Danube between Vilshofen (Bavaria) to Budapest.  Visit Passau, Linz, Melk, Vienna, Bratislava.
• 2026: Departures April through September from $4599
• 2027: Departures April through October from $4129

Learn about AMA’s Concierge Golf Program: https://www.amawaterways.com/agent/pamperedcruiser/explore/golf-cruises 

PROVENCE, FRANCE:  Lyon to Marseille for 7-nights

• Visit Lyon (overnight), Vienne, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, Arles (overnight).  Experience farm to table food, wineries, Roman Ruins, and the French countryside.
• 2026: Departures March through December from $3099
• 2027: Departures March through December from $3629
• Here’s our video from when we did this cruise:  https://youtu.be/H2rBL8J7DIU 

CANYON SPIRIT LUXURY RAIL JOURNEY in the USA

This is the perfect way to take in the incredible scenery in Colorado, Utah, and the surrounding National Parks:

Denver to Las Vegas for 5-nights with 5 National Parks:

• Denver, Glenwood Springs, Moab (2), Bryce Canyon, Las Vegas
• Departures available April through October from $5178

Denver round-trip for 7-nights with 4-Days on the Rails

• Denver, Glenwood Springs, Moab (for 3 nights), Glenwood Springs, Denver
• Departures available April through November from $4536

TRAVELLING in SUMMER 2026? Be READY

FIFA WORLD CUP is the largest sporting event on the planet, and it’s coming to North America this summer.  Even if you’re NOT a soccer fan, you SHOULD have this on your radar if you plan to travel (internationally or domestically) in June or July of 2026.  Here’s why:

• AIR TRAVEL domestically, as well as to/from Canada and Mexico will be very busy.
• AIRPORTS:  Even if you’re flying to Europe or Asia, domestic airports will be busy. 
• HOTELS:  If you’re trying to find lodging in a host city around game day, it will be tight. 
• SECURITY:  The security in airports and at venues will be enhanced, and slow everything down. 
• SEATTLE & VANCOUVER:  If you’re going to Alaska in June or July, book your hotel NOW.  Both these cities are hosting multiple games. 
• HOST CITIES:
  • CANADA:  Toronto, Vancouver
  • MEXICO: Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey
  • UNITED STATES: Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle

FIFA’s impact on travel to host cities is equal to travelling to an Olympic Games. Be prepared.

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley

Bob speaking today.  Sue and were in New Zealand and Australia with Silversea in December.  We’ve visited NZ a few times in the past several years, but this was my FIRST time back in Australia since I lived there in 1988 and 1989.

Things have changed since then.  Most notably, I am older.  I lived in Australia before mobile phones or the internet.  I made 2 calls home that year, because at $5.00 per minute, writing a letter seemed better..  I would visit the consular offices around Australia to read newspapers from home.  The Lonely Planet guidebook was my survival bible in that faraway land. 

On this visit, I wandered into the King’s Cross (an inner suburb in Sydney) to see if I might run into my 21-year-old self.  When I stayed there in the 80s, it was a dodgy and seedy part of town, but all I could afford.  Now, it’s been gentrified with high-end restaurants and art galleries.  

In Wellington NZ, I recreated a photo from almost 40 years previous.  This got me to thinking what I would say to my much younger self, if I could get the Delorean up to 88 miles per hour, and travel back to that same spot in 1988.  Here’s my list:

• Chasing money and status are hollow pursuits.
• Notwithstanding the above, you might want to buy stock in Apple computers.
• If you have to choose between a THING or an EXPERIENCE, choose the experience every single time.  Even if it’s a disaster, you’ll learn something. 
• Take more calculated risks.  Not with your safety… but put yourself out there more. 
• People are people.  The overwhelming majority of people in this world are good and well-intentioned.  If you look for that, that’s what you’ll find.  If you go looking for nastiness and treachery… you’ll find that, too. 
• Learn from people in other countries.  We’re pretty sure we’re the best at anything and everything.  This is hubris, and not supported by evidence.  We can spare ourselves a lot of pain and energy if we’re willing to learn from others’ successes and failures. 
• Spend time with your parents.  Yep… it’s sometimes inconvenient, but before you know it, this opportunity will be taken away from you. 
• Watch what you eat, and move your body.  Fine… you can live on beer and pizza in your 20s, but your body will begin to betray you at some point. 

That year abroad was a foundational experience for me, and is undoubtedly the most important contributing factor to being in the travel business today.  Fate conspires to put us in certain places at certain times, and it’s only with the benefit of hindsight that we realize what experiences were truly formative. 

The photo split above is me, and Kim’s husband Jed, in front of the New Zealand Parliament in 1988, and me in the same spot last month.  In the first photo, I’m the one on the right with long, flowing locks of auburn hair (those were the days!).

In Case You Missed It:

TAUCK RIVER.  They are the most inclusive river cruise line in Europe, and have some interesting itineraries.

https://pamperedcruiser.com/what-about-tauck/

ANTARCTICA.  What type of people go? What are the fitness requirements? What companies offer trips there.  All your Antarctica questions answered.

https://pamperedcruiser.com/antarctica-all-the-way-down-under/

GO WHERE YOU’VE NEVER BEEN.  If you’ve been seemingly everywhere, here’s some suggestions as to why you look further, and some ideass on where you HAVEN’T yet visited:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/go-visit-places-youve-never-heard-of/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

CRYSTAL SERENITY SHIP TOUR:  If you want to know what all the fuss is about with Crystal, take a wander around the ship with us:

https://youtu.be/QPyVijoO8Nk

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

Have something to say about this?

Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PamperedCruiser/posts/pfbid02GjPZfpEs6mmB3kMuRhGEParDwFKYqPXuXf47Y8zZr5H1P5d2CMGpZWmouSyEPvqBl

Today’s Travel Opportunities

CRYSTAL CRUISES

Crystal has more space per passenger than any other cruise line, and the most loyal repeat clients in the business.  Here are two opportunities to check them out close to home: 

CANADA NEW ENGLAND:  Montreal to New York departing October 16 for 10-nights

• Start in Montreal, and visit Quebec City, Iles-de-la-Madeline, Sydney, Halifax, Saint John, Portland, Boston, Newport, and end in New York City
• Fares from $6700 with a $500 ‘As You Wish’ credit

PANAMA CANAL:  Fort Lauderdale to San Diego departing November 23 for 28-nights

• Start in Fort Lauderdale, visit Nassau, Samana, San Juan, Jost Van Dyke, Oranjestad, Cartagena, Willemstad, Kralendijk, Santa Marta, Fuerte Amador, Puerto Caldera, San Juan del Sur, Acajutla, Zihualenejo, Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta, and end in San Diego
• Fares from $13,500 with a $1500 “As You Wish’ Credit 

FAMILY RIVER CRUISES with TAUCK

If you’ve ever wanted to travel Europe with children or teens, then Tauck has a number of voyages every year that are designed for families.  These itineraries have specially curated excursions for younger guests, and take place during school holidays:

Amsterdam to Basel with departures in June & July for one-week

• Visit the Netherlands, France, Germany and Switzerland
• Fares from $5690

Budapest to Vienna with departures in June & July for one-week

• Visit Hungary, Slovakia and Austria.
• Fares from $5190

Paris to Normandy with departures in June & July for one-week

• Visit Paris, Monet’s Gardens in Giverny, the Normandy Beaches and more.
• Fares from $5690

CHRISTMAS MARKETS on the Danube from Bavaria to Budapest for one-week

• Visit Munich, Regensburg, Passau, Wachau Valley, Melk, Vienna (overnight), Bratislava, Budapest. 
• 2026: Depart December 22, 23 or 29 from $4990

Here’s a great overview of Tauck Bridges Family tours: https://inspires.to/experiences/tauck-bridges-family-journeys-1dgpo 

ATLAS OCEAN YACHTS

With less than 200 guests, these brand new yachts will get you into small harbors, and other places the big ships can’t go. 

MALTA & CROATIA: Valletta to Dubrovnik departing June 2 for 10-nights

• Board in Malta, and then visit Sicily, Crotone, 2 ports in Greece, Kotor, Split, Venice (overnight), and then finish with an overnight stay in Dubrovnik.  
• Docking locations right in Venice, AND at the walled old town in Dubrovnik. 
• Fares from $8101. 

EASTERN CARIBBEAN:  From Saint Maarten to Barbados departing October 14 for 7-nights.  Go into small harbors where the big ships can’t go:

• Visit Philipsburg, St. Barts, St. Kitts & Nevis, Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, St. Vincent/Grenadines, Bridgetown. 
• Fares from $5528

ANTARCTICA and the Falkland Islands departing November 12, 2026 for 16-nights

• Visit Buenos Aires, 4 stops in the Falkland Islands, and 5 days of scheduled landings in Antarctica, before finishing in Ushuaia.
• Fares from $17,811

Click here to learn more about the Atlas Ocean Voyages experience: https://inspires.to/experiences/the-atlas-ocean-voyages-experience-wx208

Fares include open bar, daily refresh of minibar in room, prepaid gratuities, specialty dining, butler service, and some shore experiences.

OCEANIA Small Ship Cruising

If you’re looking for an experience focused on the destination and the culinary experience, Oceania is a great choice:

JAPAN: Tokyo round-trip departing March 21, 2027 for 10-Days

• Cherry Blossom Season!
• Start in Tokyo, and then visit Hokkaido, Niigata, Kanazawa, Sakaiminato, Busan, Nagasaki, and Shimizu
• Fares from $4085 with a $600 per person shore excursion credit. 

ICELAND round-trip Reykjavik departing July 4, 2027 for 10-days

• Visit 8 ports in Iceland, as well as the Faroe Islands
• Fares from $4099 with a $300 per person shore excursion credit. 

Your Oceania fare includes SPECIALTY DINING, GRATUITIES, WIFI, and a choice of a SHORE EXCURSION CREDIT or BEER/WINE with meals.

NATIONAL PARKS with TAUCK

You COULD explore our National Parks on your own, but why not let someone else take care of all the details.  Here’s a summary of TAUCK’S itineraries to our National Parks:

• Canyonlands — Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Zion, 1-week March to October from $4990.  
• Death Valley & Joshua Tree – from Las Vegas to San Diego for one week from $6390.
• Yellowstone & Grand Teton – Jackson to Rapid City (also includes Mt. Rushmore) for one week from $5890.  
• Canyonlands & Arches NP – from Salt Lake City to Denver for 1-week from $7990.
• Sequoia & Yosemite – RT from San Francisco for 1-week from $7290.
• Grand Canyon, Zion, Arches, Bryce Canyon, & Canyonlands – from Grand Junction (CO) to Las Vegas for 10-days from $7990

Learn more about visiting the National Parks with Tauck here: https://www.tauck.com/tours-and-cruises/national-parks?insider=mmjy-sue-bob-bradley-the-pampered-cruiser

Recently booked a Viking Cruise?

Viking makes it really easy to book direct, either online, by phone, or on board.  Our clients worry that if they book on-line, that they’re cutting us out, but if you let us know after you’ve booked, then we can still help you with your reservation (even if you booked ON BOARD).

We’ll check over your reservation to make sure you’re getting the best possible deal, and we will also add some onboard credits that are not available on direct bookings.

We can add at least $100 per person onboard credit to any direct Viking reservation made in the last 60 days.

There is never a situation where you’ll get a better deal by booking directly with Viking (or any other cruise line).

If you recently booked a Viking Cruise, please let us know as soon as possible.

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley

You’ve heard of Tahiti and if you haven’t been to Tahiti and French Polynesia, there’s a number of reasons it should be on your radar:

Where is it?

• It’s in the middle of the Pacific Ocean… south of the equator.  It’s almost exactly half way between Hawaii and New Zealand, and approximately half way between South America and Australia.

How difficult is it to get to?

• There are direct flights from LA and San Francisco that take about 7.5 hours.  There are also flights from Seattle that take about an hour longer.  In logistic terms, it’s 2 hours further away than Hawaii.

Why do I want to go there?

• Unspoiled tropical beaches, friendly natives, and not nearly as crowded as other such places.  Hawaii gets more tourists in a week, than Tahiti gets in a year. 

What’s the difference between “Tahiti” and “French Polynesia”

• Tahiti is the largest island in the region of French Polynesia (somewhat like the Big Island of Hawaii).  Other French Polynesian islands you’ve heard of: Bora Bora, the Marquesas, and Moorea.  Much like we often call the Netherlands “Holland”, French Polynesia is often collectively referred to as Tahiti (just don’t make this mistake in front of the locals).  

Is a cruise the best way to see it?

• It is certainly the most cost-effective was to see French Polynesia.  However, if you want to plant yourself on a pristine tropical beach (or overwater bungalow), there’s plenty of land based options in French Polynesia as well.  

What is the best time of year to visit?

• The weather is moderate year round, but the Austral winter months (May to October) are less humid, and have less rain.  If you’re looking to escape our Northern hemisphere winters, I wouldn’t hesitate to go November through April… just be ready for a bit of rain, and some humidity (very much like planning a trip to Hawaii). 

Fun Facts

• About 70% of Tahitians are Polynesian, and many of them still speak local languages.  It is much like Hawaiian with a small alphabet, and lots of vowels.  The official language is French (Bob tells me it is a very specific dialect (translation: he doesn’t understand it well)), but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. 
• French Polynesia is a semi-autonomous territory of France.  They have their own currency (don’t use the Euro), and their own government (there is a President), but receive financial and military support from France.  
• French Polynesia is made up of 121 islands covering an area over 4 times as large as the Lower 48 states.  

In Case You Missed It:

WINDSTAR:  A Yachting experience is vastly different than a mega-ship cruise.  With a maximum of 342 guests, and getting you to many less-frequented places, give WINDSTAR a look: https://youtu.be/ctytpPPx1tM 

TRENDS WE’RE SEEING for 2026:  Over-tourism, ETAs, air travel, new ships, and lots more: https://pamperedcruiser.com/preview-of-2026/

IT’S ALL TEMPORARY:  You never know when opportunities are going to be taken away from you.  Our policy:  If it’s important, DO IT NOW. https://pamperedcruiser.com/its-all-temporary-so-travel-now/ 

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

TAHITI:  Here’s our video blogs from our trip to TAHITI last year:

OVER WATER BUNGALOW:  It’s a bit like living in a James Bond movie, and if you’re in TAHITI (or anywhere else where they have OW Bungalows) you really do need to give it a try:

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

Today’s Travel Opportunities

TAHITI by YACHT with WINDSTAR

If you’d like to explore FRENCH POLYNESIA in a 320 passenger yacht, here are some options for you: 

TAHITI & FRENCH POLYNESIA: Papeete round-trip for 7-days

• Tropical Beauty, Remote Islands, Dreamy Lagoons.
• Start in Papeete, and visit Moorea, Raiatea (overnight), Taha’a, Bora Bora (overnight), and Huahine before returning to Papeete.  

• Departures year-round from $2999
• Here’s our video blog from when we did this cruise with WINDSTAR: https://youtu.be/ctytpPPx1tM 

TAHITI & MARQUESAS:  Papeete round-trip for 14-days

• If you really want to immerse yourself in French Polynesia, stay for 2 weeks!
• Start in Papeete, and then visit Fakarava, followed by 3 port stops in the Marquesas, then Rangiroa, Taha’a, Bora Bora (overnight), and Moorea, before returning to Papeete.  
• Depart March 26 from $6088
• Depart April 29, 2027 from $6399

TAHITI YACHT CRUISE for 7-nights with 2-nights post-cruise OVERWATER BUNGALOW

• Start in Papeete, and visit Moorea, Raiatea (overnight), Taha’a, Bora Bora (overnight), and Huahine before returning to Papeete, and transfer for 2-nights to an OVERWATER BUNGALOW at Manava Beach Resort
• Departures October through December from $6299 per person. 

REGENT 7 SEAS South Pacific Voyages Including TAHITI

REGENT is the most inclusive cruise line, and they have several itineraries that include port stops in TAHITI and FRENCH POLYNESIA:

TAHITI to FIJI departing January 23, 2027 for 12-nights

• Start in Papeete, then visit Raiatea, the Cook Islands, Alofi, Tonga, and 3 port stops in Fiji
• Fares from $9299

LOS ANGELES to TAHITI departing January 6, 2027 for 17-nights

• Board in California, and then visit 4 ports of call in Hawaii, before heading south to Bora Bora, Huahine, and finishing in Papeete.  
• Fares from $13,699

AZAMARA:  Affordable small-ship cruising:

With their fleet of R-Class vessels, carrying only 680 guests, AZAMARA makes small ship cruising accessible for everyone.  

SAN FRANCISCO to TAHITI departing January 5, 2027 for 18-nights

• Visit 3 ports in Hawaii (with an overnight in Honolulu), then go to Moorea and Bora Bora before finishing in Papeete
• Veranda fares from $5159

TAHITI to NEW ZEALAND departing January 23, 2027 for 14-nights

• Depart Papeete, and visit Bora Bora, American Samoa, Apia, 2 port stops in Fiji, Norfolk Island, and then finish with an overnight stay aboard the ship in Auckland
• Fares from $6379

TAHITI & FRENCH POLYNESIA in OVERWATER BUNGALOWS

You won’t see as many of the islands in the region, but if you prefer to stay in an OVERWATER BUNGALOW, here are several options: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/bobbrad77410/travel/destinations/south-pacific/french-polynesia

UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER CRUISE COLLECTION

UNIWORLD is on all the rivers in Europe with custom built ships designed and decorated for the region they sail through.  Here’s some of their itineraries OUTSIDE EUROPE:

EGYPT for 12-days (4-nights Cairo and 7-nights on the ship)

• See the Pyramids and Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Temple of Karnak, Temple of Luxor, Valley of the Kings, and a Nile Felucca ride.

• 2026: September – December from $7919
• 2027: January – May from $6299
• Details here: https://pamperedcruiser.uniworld.com/us/river-cruise/egypt/nile/splendors-of-egypt-and-the-nile/2025-cairo-to-cairo 

INDIA:  Ganges River Cruise for 13-days between New Delhi and Kolkata

• If the other cruise lines are sold out in India, we can still find you space on UNIWORLD.
• Few countries simultaneously fascinate and frighten travellers as much as India, so visit it in comfort while still being exposed to the things that make this country so unique.
• Visit New Delhi, Jaipur, Agra (Taj Mahal), Kolkata, Cruise the Ganges, Kalna, Matairi, Murshidabad, Baranagar, Khusbagh,, Mayapur, Chandannagar.
• Includes 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and internal flights. 
• 2026: Depart September – December from $7039
• 2027: Depart January – March from $6799

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with HX

Outdoor ALASKA: Vancouver to Anchorage for 10-days

• Depart Vancouver, sail the Inside Passage, then to Misty Fjords, Klawock, Fjords of the Alaskan panhandle, Icy Strait Point, Glacier Bay, Valdez, Prince William Sound, and then on to Anchorage
• 2026: Departures May through July from $4286
• 2027: Departures May through July from $5299
• Here’s our ship tour video if you want to see the ship: Tour of the MS Roald Amundsen – YouTube 

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS and Quito for 9-days

• 2-nights in Quito, then fly to Galapagos (included in fare) for 6 nights.  Visit Mosquera Inlet, Santa Fe, South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Charles Darwin Research Station in Port Ayora, Espanola Island, Eden Islet.  

• 2026:  February through December from $6652
• 2027:  January through December from $7050
• See our video blog from when we did this trip: https://youtu.be/3F38Km2EEjQ 

Do You Have an Upcoming Viking Cruise?

Viking’s BON VOYAGE incentive allows you to book your next Viking cruise in the 35 days BEFORE you board, and get some extra goodies for doing so:

• $100 per person on board credit
• 6-month final payment date
• $100 per person OFF one-week cruises, and bigger discounts for longer itineraries.

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley

People are quite dedicated to their credit card points, so I comment on this topic with some trepidation.  Here’s the caveat before we start:  there are lots of comparisons of credit cards done by journalists that specialize in personal finance.  Their analyses will be much more comprehensive than mine.  I am simply going to make some observations based on my own experience. 

Here’s some of the perks of a Travel Credit Card.  The trick is determining the value for YOU:

LOUNGE ACCESS:  Nice perk, when it’s available.  Sometimes, you’ll see a line-up for the lounge.  You’ll also see the paying customers (those with tickets in Business Class) bypassing that line.

TRAVEL INSURANCE:  The insurance on credits cards is very limited, and has pages of exclusions and limits.  Make sure you know what’s covered, what’s not. 

CAR RENTAL COVERAGE:  Like travel insurance, there are limits.  Case in point… if the car rental company upgrades you to a higher value car, your credit card may NOT cover you.

CREDIT CARD FEES:  If your credit card costs $200 per year, and offers you a companion fare (for example), then it MAY be worth it.  You have to do the math to determine that the benefit exceeds what you’re paying (hint:  it’s closer to even-money than it looks at first).

COMPANION FARES:  Great if you use them.  Often companion fares are only available on certain fare types and routings, so ensure your travel plans align with the restrictions.

MY EXPERIENCE:  A couple of decades ago, Bob had hundreds of thousands of airline points earned on a credit card, and we took some incredible overseas trips in business class on points.  More recently, rewards seats have become much more scarce.  

LEGISLATIVE CHANGES:  Congress is currently considering legislation on credit card fees.  It sounds great at first, and it’s good they want to tackle predatory lending policies and interest rates charged by credit card companies.  The collateral damage here MAY be the benefits your credit card offers if the legislation passes.

The Bottom Line:  ACCUMULATING credit card rewards is easy, and can become a bit of an obsession.  REDEEMING benefits has become increasingly difficult to the point you really do need to consider whether you’re getting the promised value.  You need to do a bit of math to make sure you’re accruing the benefits that are most meaningful for YOU.  

The next best option is a cash back credit card, where you use the credit you earn exclusively for travel.  

In Case You Missed It:

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND:  Here are some different choices for seeing these two countries, and suggestions for making the most of your trip there:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/down-under-new-zealand-australia/

HOW WE’LL USE AI:  Artificial Intelligence is going to be disruptive in the Travel Biz.  We don’t know how it’s all going to play out yet, but we DO know we’re doubling-down on our commitment for our clients to deal with REAL PEOPLE:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/do-you-want-to-deal-with-artificial-intelligence-or-a-real-person/

SEA CLOUD:  If you like the size of river boats, and the structure of a river cruise, but want to visit salt water destinations, then SEA CLOUD may be what you’re looking for:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/sea-cloud/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

The Eastern section of the Danube River will take you through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania.  There’s lots to see and do in this less-visited part of Europe:

https://youtu.be/-OhF7PSrj0c

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

Have something to say about this?

Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PamperedCruiser/posts/pfbid02riJBK8RkGwBUYvxhw8gsWo3f3YnEeUaxPDkgCwPSoA8yCgYPzsX73A7Picp99AaLl

Today’s Travel Opportunities

AMA Waterways

AMA has a strong focus on its culinary offering, has lots of included shore excursion options, and a final payment on 90 DAYS PRIOR to sailing.  Their current promo also offers a free pre or post cruise extension on select voyages.  Here’s the list:

https://www.amawaterways.com/offers/complimentary-land

PORTUGAL & SPAIN departing May 5 for one-week

• Visit Porto, Douro valley, Regua, Pinhao, Vega de Terron, Salamanca, Afurada.
• See the vineyards and estate wineries, traverse the locks, take in spectacular scenery, visit castle ruins, see paleolithic art, and enjoy architectural treasures.
• Optional extensions to Lisbon. 
• Fares from $5649 (Less 5% on this sailing ONLY)

EASTERN EUROPE: Budapest to Bucharest departing for 7-nights

• Travel through Hungary, and then visit Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania.
• Optional extension to Transylvania/Dracula’s Castle and Bucharest.
• 2026: Departures March – December from $2999
• 2027: Departures March – December from $3179

Here’s a link to our video from when we did this trip:  https://youtu.be/-OhF7PSrj0c 

EXPLORA JOURNEYS – European Luxury Lifestyle Voyages

With a great culinary offering, a unique entertainment concept and three brand-new ships, Explora Journeys is worth a try.  

ARABIA:  Dubai round-trip departing December 14, 2026 for 7-nights

• Get a great taste of the Middle East from the safety of the ship, and only unpack once. 
• Board in Dubai (overnight), and then visit Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Doha, Saudi Arabia
• Veranda fares from $4500
• Stay on board for 14-nights from $11,550 and also visit Khor Fakkan, Oman, Muscat, and Kashab.  

WEST COASTER: Los Angeles to Vancouver departing May 3, 2027 for 7-nights

• Visit San Diego, San Francisco (overnight), Victoria.
• Veranda fares from $4440
• Get out in Vancouver OR carry on to Alaska OR take the Rocky Mountaineer to Banff.

EXPLORA I SHIP TOUR VIDEO: https://youtu.be/LHjAS0JKCQ0 

EXPLORA ENTERTAINMENT CONCEPT: https://youtu.be/9ELX0zxNjZ0 

SEACLOUD – Salt-Water River Cruise

These small ships (holding between 60 and 136 guests) compare more closely with a River Cruise, than they do with ocean cruises.  Imagine visiting charming little port stops (like a river cruise), with a small group (like a river cruise), but only having to unpack once, with a first-rate culinary offering.  

Greek Isles (Athens round trip), departing July 17th/24th/or 31st 2026 (7 nights) 

• Details: https://issuu.com/seacloudcruisesusa/docs/sea_cloud_big_book_2026_/68
• Visit Amorgos, Milos, Amorgos, Nauplio, and Poros
• Brochure Price: starting at $6995 per person
• SPECIAL PRICE: From $3745 per person

Eastern Caribbean: round-trip Philipsburg departing December 6 for 8-nights

• Visit Dominica, Martinique, St. Lucia, Iles des Saintes, Nevis & Antigua.
• Sail the scenic Eastern Caribbean islands, and get into small coves and harbors on board the 136 guest Sea Cloud Spirit.  
• Fares from $3425

Learn more about Sea Cloud here: https://youtu.be/fy7Kfd1i3ZQ 

OCEANIA

With a strong focus on the CULINARY, and lots of overnight port stops, OCEANIA occupies a market niche between the Premium and Luxury lines:

NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA:  Auckland to Sydney departing January 24, 2027 for 14-days

• Visit Rotorua, Gisborne, Napier, Wellington, Timaru, Dunedin, Milford Sound, Hobart, Melbourne
• Fares from $5399 with a $800 Shore Excursion Credit per person

IRELAND, UK & SCANDINAVIA: Belfast to London departing August 12 for 15-days

• Visit Belfast, Douglas, Greencastle, Isle of Skye, Scrabster, Invergordon, Kristiansand, Copenhagen (overnight), Berlin, Ronne (Denmark), Kariskrona (Sweden), and finish in London
• Fares from $7267 with an $800 Shore Excursion Credit per person.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Remote Experiences

Here are two CLOSE-TO-HOME options for incredible scenery and outdoor activity:

SAN JUAN ISLANDS for 8-days round-trip Seattle

• Visit Victoria BC, Desolation Sound for kayaking and hiking, Alert Bay for First Nations immersion, the Gulf Islands to visit quaint communities, Friday Harbor for the Whale museum, and other islands in Puget Sound. 
• This corner of the country is a well-kept secret.  Visit remote islands to see the sea lions, eagles, humpback and orca whales.  Go for a bike ride in Victoria; kayaking, zodiacs, and paddleboarding in remote bays.  
• 2026: Departures in October from $5359
• 2027: Departures in October from $5535

WHALE WATCHING in MAGDALENA BAY (Baja California) for 6-days round-trip Loreto

• Whale Watching in Magdalena Bay for 6 days Jan, Feb, Mar.
• See the Gray Whales, explore the sand dunes at Sand Dollar Beach, and visit the fishing village of Puerto Magdalena.  Go kayaking, zodiacs, paddleboarding, hiking, and cycling.  
• 2026:  Departures January through March from $2524.
• 2027:  Departures January through March from $3947.

COLLETTE CITY SPOTLIGHT TOURS

SPOTLIGHT tours mean you only UNPACK ONCE, and can explore a city or region in depth while having the logistics taken care of for you:

NEW YORK for 5-days

• Visit Greenwich Village, Wall Street, Chinatown, Central Park, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial.
• Includes 4-nights at the Sheraton Times Square, 5 meals, and 2 Broadway shows.
• Year-round departures from $2399.

PARIS for 7-days

• See Notre Dame, Montmartre, Champs-Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower.
• Includes 8 meals, 6-nights hotel, Seine River dinner cruise, Louvre Museum, Le Marais, Place de Vosges, Palace of Versailles, and dinner at the Eiffel Tower
• Departures April through November from $3049

Here are some of COLLETTE’s other SPOTLIGHT tours:

• The French Riviera – 9-days from $2599
• London – 7-days from $2549
• Northern Italy – 9-days from $2699
• South Dakota, Mt. Rushmore & the Badlands – 7-days from $2699
• Tuscany – 9-days from $1999
• Washington, DC – 6-days from $2599

Recently booked a Viking Cruise?

Viking makes it really easy to book direct, either online, by phone, or on board.  Our clients worry that if they book on-line, that they’re cutting us out, but if you let us know after you’ve booked, then we can still help you with your reservation (even if you booked ON BOARD).

We’ll check over your reservation to make sure you’re getting the best possible deal, and we will also add some onboard credits that are not available on direct bookings.

We can add at least $100 per person onboard credit to any direct Viking reservation made in the last 60 days.

There is never a situation where you’ll get a better deal by booking directly with Viking (or any other cruise line).

If you recently booked a Viking Cruise, please let us know as soon as possible.

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley

Happy New Year… a great time to consider NEW EXPERIENCES.  If you’ve “been there, done that”, you should look at Windstar.  They’ll take you to some familiar corners of the planet, but you’ll see places you haven’t been before, and experience the places you have been differently. 

WHO is WINDSTAR?

• WINDSTAR has three motor yachts that carry 320 guests each (with one more arriving in 2026), and 3 sailing yachts that carry between 148 and 342 guests.  
• RELAXED LUXURY – You’ll need to wear pants in the dining room, but other than that it extraordinarily relaxed.  You can leave your ties and ballgowns at home. 
• THE FIRST-NAME CRUISE LINE – the service is polished, polite, and personal.  Many of the crew will address you by your FIRST name. 
• UNIQUE ITINERARIES – You might have been to the Caribbean or the Med many times before, but WINDSTAR will take you to ports you haven’t been, and great a different experience for you in ports you have visited previously. 

HOW YACHTING is DIFFERENT

Imagine yourself having been invited on some billionaire’s private yacht (but without all the pretentious dinner conversation), sailing from scenic bay to remote harbor to uncrowded port.  Rather than a motor coach tour of busy tourist attractions, you instead go to a BBQ lunch on a private atoll with a few new friends.

• IT’S NOT CROWDED — not only because there are such a small number of people aboard, but also because their itineraries don’t go where other ships go.  Most often, it will only be you and your fellow Windstar guests at a port of call.
• WATER PLATFORM — there’s a swim platform at the back of the vessels where you can swim in the ocean, go snorkelling, go kayaking, or just hang out — steps from your room.
• ITINERARIES – if your criteria of great cruise itinerary is being exposed to ports you never been to (or maybe even never even heard of) you’ll experience them with Windstar. 

WHERE does WINDSTAR go?

• MEDITERRANEAN – Windstar is there year round, and is more about tiny Greek Islands you’ve never heard of than JUST the big name ports.
• TAHITI – 2 hours past Hawaii, with far fewer tourists, and Windstar has 2 ships there. 
• NORTHERN EUROPE – The Baltic, UK/Ireland, Scandinavia, and Iceland.
• CARIBBEAN – again, like the Med – smaller islands you probably haven’t heard of. 
• ALASKA – the brand-new STAR SEEKER will be there in 2026.

WHO GOES on WINDSTAR?

• People that want intimacy, authenticity and a little romance with their adventure
• NON-CRUISERS or people that have done a LOT of cruising, and have been to seemingly every region, and want to see something a bit different.  
• FOODIES:  Those that like casual, intimate dining venues rather than massive dining halls with assigned tables.  Windstar partners with the James Beard Foundation so you’ll find the cuisine and dining experience on board to be excellent.
• NO-TUXEDO LUXURY LOVERS:  High-end food and service, but no formal nights, 

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED Podcast

Check out our UNPACKED PODCAST where Kim & Bob talk about Windstar, where they go, and how they differentiate in the cruise market. 

https://youtu.be/qgAeXF2ZEOk

In Case You Missed It:

MEDITERRNEAN QUIET SEASON:  You’ll have to wear a jacket, but the amazing tourist sites in the MED have a fraction as many people October through April.  

https://pamperedcruiser.com/quiet-season-mediterranean/

WHEN THE CRUISE LINE CHANGES YOUR ITINERARY:  A couple of years ago the closure of the Suez Canal had substantial impacts on cruise line itineraries.  What happens when the cruise line changes your itinerary?

https://pamperedcruiser.com/the-suez-canal-and-force-majeure/

BABY BOOMERS are OUR PEOPLE:  Apparently our business is supposed to be chasing the Millennial Generation.  We welcome everyone, but here’s why we’re sticking with the BOOMERS:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/why-were-sticking-with-the-baby-boomers/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

STAR BREEZE Ship Tour:  Here’s WINDSTAR’s motor-yacht that is based in Tahiti year round:

https://youtu.be/VSsLmFZPqdI

Remember to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel while you’re there.  It really helps us, and we can produce more content for you!

Have something to say about this?

Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PamperedCruiser/posts/pfbid035p4tZyMvPG7R1fXcmSCVgHq6r8Y6jZzwis5S3EEpogdDXb3ZnbcTNQZ5D2U9RekCl

Today’s Travel Opportunities

WINDSTAR

Take advantage of WINDSTAR’S BEYOND INCLUSIVE Promo:  On select voyages, get a pre-cruise hotel night, transfer to the ship, an additional on board credit, the beverage package, gratuities, and wifi.  Here are some examples:

MEDITERRANEAN:  Istanbul to Athens via Corinth Canal departing May 2 for 8-days

• Full of History, Culture and Hidden Gems
• Start in Istanbul, then visit Myrina, Mykonos, Kusadasi (where you’ll have a 5-course dinner served to you after hours at Ephesus), Bodrum, Santorini, Delphi, and then traverse the Corinth Canal to arrive in Athens.
• Fares from $6599 with all the BEYOND INCLUSIVE amenities

TULIPS from Amsterdam to London departing May 5 for 7-days

• Start with 2-nights in Amsterdam so you can out to see the tulip fields at harvest, and then visit Harlingen, Rotterdam, Antwerp (overnight), Bruges, and then finish in London
• Fares From $4099 with all the BEYOND INCLUSIVE amenities

ALASKA: Vancouver to Anchorage departing June 12 for 12-days

• Start in Vancouver, and then visit Misty Fjords, Wrangell, Petersburg, Sitka, Tracy Arm, Haines, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier, Kenai Fjords, and finish in Anchorage
• Fares From $10,099 with all the BEYOND INCLUSIVE amenities
• On the brand new STAR SEEKER that holds only 224 guests.  

JAPAN and EAST ASIA from Hanoi to Osaka departing March 1, 2027 for 10-days

• Fly to Hanoi, and start in Halong Bay, then visit Hong Kong (overnight), Taipei, Ishigaki, Okinawa, Amami, and finish in Osaka.
• Fares From $7799 with all the BEYOND INCLUSIVE amenities

CANADA/NEW ENGLAND: Boston to Montreal departing September 14 for 11-days

• Fall foliage, historic towns, and lighthouse views!
• Start in Boston, then visit Rockland, Portland MN, Halifax, Sydney, 2 stops in the Quebec Eastern townships, an overnight stay in Quebec City, before finishing in Montreal. 
• Fares from $7099 with all the BEYOND INCLUSIVE amenities

CARIBBEAN:  San Juan round-trip departing November 29 for 14-days

• Warm weather escapes, Island Hopping, beaches
• Start in Puerto Rico, and then spend the next two weeks visiting US Virgin Islands, Gustavia, Brasseterre, St. Maarten, Great Harbour, British Virgin Islands, St. George’s, Bequia, Mayreau, Les Saintes, and Marigot.  
• Fares from $4899 with all the BEYOND INCLUSIVE amenities

TAHITI:  Papeete round-trip departing November 5 for 7-days

• Tropical Beauty, Remote Islands, Dreamy Lagoons.
• Start in Papeete, and visit Moorea, Raiatea (overnight), Taha’a, Bora Bora (overnight), and Huahine before returning to Papeete.  

• Fares from $4254 with all the BEYOND INCLUSIVE amenities.
• Here’s our video blog from when we did this cruise with WINDSTAR: https://youtu.be/ctytpPPx1tM 

Can’t find the WINDSTAR cruise you’re looking for?  There are dozens of sailings that include the BEYOND INCLUSIVE amenities:

https://www.windstarcruises.com/specials/cruise-beyond/?promo=cruise-beyond

RIVER CRUISES – Tauck

Tauck is the most inclusive of the river cruise lines, and they have some unique itineraries in Europe:

GERMAN OKTOBERFEST:  Amsterdam to Munich for 10-days in September

• Visit Amsterdam (overnight), Dusseldorf (to visit local craft breweries), sail the Rhine Gorge, Heidelberg for a beer-paired lunch, Strasbourg, Lucerne and Mt. Pilatus, Lake Konstanz, and then on to Munich for 2 nights for the world’s largest festival!
• 2026: Sold Out
• 2027: Depart September 15 or 22 from $8990

FRENCH RIVIERA to SWITZERLAND for 14-days

• Fly to Marseille, and visit Cannes, Nice, Monte Carlo, Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Avignon, Chateau Neuf du Pape, Tain L’hermitage, Macon, Cluny, Chalon sur Saone, Burgundy, Lyon, Geneva, Chamonix.
• 2026: Departures in July & August from $9190
• 2027: Departures April through October from $9790

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES

If you want to visit where few others get to go, and see spectacular scenery and wildlife, check out these two options from ATLAS: 

GREENLAND & NEWFOUNDLAND departing September 21 for 17-nights

• Visit 4 ports in Greenland, then 4 ports in the Canadian Arctic, and then onto Newfoundland and Labrador for 6 different port stops.  You’ll then see the rarely visited French Territory of St. Pierre/Miquelon, before returning to St. John’s, Newfoundland where it’s a quick flight back to the US Northeast.
• Fares from $15,212.

POLAR NORWAY:  From Longyearbyen to Tromso departing June 23, 2027 for 11-nights

• This is like a safari at sea!  Spot puffins, reindeer, arctic terns and foxes.  See the ice floes, icebergs, and do some glacier cruising.
• This cruise includes a private jet ride back to Oslo, Zodiac landings, boots, and a parka you get to keep. 
• Fares from $8589

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER Luxury Rail Journey

The scenery in the Canadian Rockies is spectacular, and can be easily added on to ANY Alaskan cruise that starts or finishes in Vancouver.  You’ll get to see world-class scenery and wildlife spotting, all while enjoying great food and wine.  There are options between 3 and 12 nights.  Here are two:

Rocky Mountain DUAL Crossing: Banff to Jasper for 5 Nights

• This is a great itinerary that is ONLY OFFERED in 2026 due to the FIFA event in Vancouver (and the shortage of hotels rooms there in June/July).  You get to cross the Rockies by rail TWICE, and see both Banff and Jasper National Parks.
• Fly to Calgary, and then spend 2 nights in Banff.  Board the train for the trip across the Rockies to Kamloops, and spend a night there.  Get back on the train to travel a different route over the Rockies to spend two nights in Jasper NP.  Fly home from Edmonton.  The scenery doesn’t get much better than this. 
• Departures in June and July from $3070. 

Circle Journey: Vancouver round-trip for 12 -nights

• If you really want a comprehensive feel for the spectacular Canadian Rockies, this is the trip for you.
• Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff (3-nights), Lake Louise (2-nights), Jasper (2-nights), Quesnel, Whistler, Vancouver.
• Departures available April through October from $8999

TRAVELLING in SUMMER 2026? Be READY

FIFA WORLD CUP is the largest sporting event on the planet, and it’s coming to North America this summer.  Even if you’re NOT a soccer fan, you SHOULD have this on your radar if you plan to travel (internationally or domestically) in June or July of 2026.  Here’s why:

• AIR TRAVEL domestically, as well as to/from Canada and Mexico will be very busy.
• AIRPORTS:  Even if you’re flying to Europe or Asia, domestic airports will be busy. 
• HOTELS:  If you’re trying to find lodging in a host city around game day, it will be tight. 
• SECURITY:  The security in airports and at venues will be enhanced, and slow everything down. 
• SEATTLE & VANCOUVER:  If you’re going to Alaska in June or July, book your hotel NOW.  Both these cities are hosting multiple games. 
• HOST CITIES:
  • CANADA:  Toronto, Vancouver
  • MEXICO: Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey
  • UNITED STATES: Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle

FIFA’s impact on travel to host cities is equal to travelling to an Olympic Games. Be prepared.

If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Sue Bradley