You know that a key part of VACATION PLANNING is determining what type of experience you’re looking for.  You typically go to Europe to ENGAGE in the history and culture.  You typically go to a Caribbean Island to RETREAT from your regular routine, read a book, and drink tropical cocktails with paper umbrellas at the top. 

You can do some of both too, but today I’ll talk about how to use the concepts of ENGAGE or RETREAT to make sure you’re getting the best vacation experience.  This is partially motivated by some feedback a brand new client offered about a previous river cruise in Europe:  “There were too many churches, museums, castles, and historical sites”.  They wanted to retreat to the river boat, for relaxation and on-board activities.  Clearly, a river cruise was a bad match for them.

Knowing which side of the spectrum you lean toward can make or break your next vacation. 

TO ENGAGE is to be learning, tasting, exploring, and moving.  These vacations are busy, often with multiple locations. 

TO RETREAT is for recovery.  You’ll be reading, relaxing, and slowing down.  

HOW DIFFERENT VACATION OPTIONS TEND TOWARDS ONE OR THE OTHER:

RIVER CRUISES tend towards ENGAGE.  You will be busy visiting historical sites, interfacing with local people, learning about the art, history, culture and cuisine of a place.  And then you do it all over again the next day in a different location.

OCEAN CRUISES can tend towards ENGAGE or RETREAT… it really depends on the itinerary.  A Caribbean cruise will often have half your days as sea days, giving you lots of time to RETREAT.  A Mediterranean cruise may have NO sea days, because there are plenty of cultural and historical sites to ENGAGE with. 

LAND TOURS tend toward ENGAGE.  You are typically moving every few days, so you’ll be busy.  

EXPEDITION CRUISES are more active, but often have sea days to get to remote locations, giving you some time to RETREAT.  Often those sea days are filled with lectures, citizen science, or other activities for those that want to ENGAGE.  It’s also worth noting that some may consider sea kayaking (for example) as an activity to ENGAGE, while others would consider it a RETREAT.  

The key is designing your days intentionally, and building an element of both ENGAGE and RETREAT into your vacation, while fully acknowledging your vacation will tend one way or the other.  You’ll find your sweet spot by knowing your default rhythms and preferences on vacation, and designing your trip accordingly.  It’s NOT about choosing.  It IS about coming home feeling energized and alive for what’s coming next!

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED Podcast:

Check out our PODCAST where Kim & Bob talk about VACATION PLANNING, and WHY you should consider if your vacation is to be one of ENGAGE or RETREAT.

https://youtu.be/zb_NJX4seO8

In Case You Missed It:

TRAVEL DISASTERS – We’ve all got at least one story where things went horribly wrong on vacation.  Here’s some strategies to minimize that possibility.

https://pamperedcruiser.com/travel-disasters-and-how-to-avoid-them/

CRYSTAL CRUISES have the highest passenger space ratios at sea, and the most dedicated clientele.  Find out why: 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/crystal-whats-new-whats-cherished/

TURKEY & ISTANBUL:  If you haven’t been to this crossroads of culture, history, language, geography and religion, here’s why you might want to give it a look:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/istanbul-turkey/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

OCEANIA REGATTA Ship Tour:  Oceania has four R-Class vessels holding just 680 guests each.  Here’s our walk around REGATTA (also works for NAUTICA, SIRENA, or INSIGNIA):

https://youtu.be/Ryx1_QMD_oE

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

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

RIVER CRUISING with AMA WATERWAYS

You should look at AMA if you’d like MORE choices for included shore excursions, an elevated culinary experience, AND a final payment due ONLY 90 DAYS prior to departure. 

RHINE RIVER: Amsterdam to Basel departing March 28 for one-week

• Visit Amsterdam (overnight), Dusseldorf, Rhine Gorge, Rudesheim, Ludwigshafen, Strasbourg, Breisach, Basel 
• Window Fares (D Category): $4548.  Our Group Price: $4320
• Twin Balcony Fares (BA Category): $6548.  Our Group Price; $6220

Paris & Normandy round-trip Paris departing September 17 for one-week

• Visit Les Andelys, Le Havre, Honfleur, Normandy Landing Beaches, Caudebec-en-Caux, Rouen, Vernon, Paris (overnight). 
• Optional 2-night Paris Extension
• Window Fares $5349.  Our Group Price: $5082
• French Balcony Fare: $6848.  Our Group Price: $6505

CRYSTAL CRUISES Small Ship Luxury

The Crystal ships were built for over 1000 guests, but they have retrofitted them to carry 700.  You’ll notice the extra space!

JAPAN:  Tokyo round-trip departing April 5 for 13-nights

• Visit Shimizu, Kobe (overnight), Okinawa, Ishigaki, Keelung, Kagoshima, Kochi, Tokyo (overnight). 
• Fares from $8200 (with a $250 pp OBC only from our agency).

BRITISH ISLES & BALTIC SEA: Copenhagen to Liverpool departing July 16 for 10-nights

• Visit Sweden, 3 port stops in Norway, and 4 stops in the British Isles 
• Fares from $7200 (with a $200 pp OBC only from our agency).
• OR stay on for 29-nights for the SOLAR ECLIPSE from $23,900 (5 port stops in France, 2 in the Netherlands, 3 in Spain and 2 in Portugal

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Remote Experiences

Here are two of the best kept secrets in the country for incredible scenery and outdoor activity:

OREGON & WASHINGTON: Columbia River from Portland to Clarkston for 6-days

• Visit Portland, The Dalles (for Multnomah Falls and fish hatchery), Columbia Gorge, Walla Walla, Palouse River.  Traverse the locks by river boat right here at home!
• Go hiking, kayaking, ride on the zodiacs, visit museums and wineries
• 2026: March $3308, April $5426, September $4335, October $4582

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 $5061

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 $6804 including pre-cruise hotel night. 

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 $4958 – includes one-night complimentary pre-stay. 

Includes Unlimited Beverages, gratuities, all taxes and fees, walking sticks,  binoculars, trip delay, medical coverage.

OCEANIA CRUISES

Oceania positions itself between the Premium and Luxury brands, with a strong focus on the culinary experience.  

CANADA & NEW ENGLAND:  Montreal to New York departing October 17 for 11-days

• Visit Quebec City, Saguenay, Baie-Comeau, Sept-Iles, Havre Saint Pierre, Corner Brook, Halifax, Sydney, and Saint-John.
• Veranda fares from $5599*

CARIBBEAN: ABC Islands & East Caribbean – Round-trip Miami departing March 9 for 12-days

• Visit Aruba, Curacao (overnight), Grenada, St. Vincent, Martinique, British Virgin Islands.
• Veranda fares from $4799* on the brand new ALLURA

*Includes Specialty Dining, Wifi, Gratuities, and the House Beverage Package.

LAND CRUISES with G-ADVENTURES

GELUXE is an upgraded product offering from Adventure Travel specialists G-Adventures.  With a maximum group size of 16 people, and local guides, you have a very authentic experience. 

COSTA RICA:  San Jose round-trip for 15-days

• Visit San Jose, then go kayaking and wildlife spotting at Tortuguero NP.  Next, it’s on to Arenal Volcano to take in the views, and visit a coffee plantation.  Then into the jungle at Rio Celeste, to experience the hot springs, waterfalls, and cascading pools.  Mount Chirripo for more volcanoes and the central highlands. Also visit Puerto Jimenez and Corcovado NP, and Manuel Antonio NP before returning to San Jose. 
• Departures November through March from $7899 per person 

SOUTH AFRICA:  Johannesburg to Cape Town for 11-days for Wildlife and Wineries

• Fly to Johannesburg to join your group.  Take a short flight to Pridelands Conservatory where you’ll spend 4-nights to see elephants, buffalo, and zebra.  Carry on to Kruger NP for more safari drives.  Take another short flight to Capetown, where you’ll walk, cycle, and kayak through the vineyards in Franschhoek, before finishing up in Cape Town for 2-nights.  
• Departures in November & December from $4949

TRAVELLING in SUMMER 2026?  Be READY

FIFA WORLD CUP is the largest sporting event on the planet, and it’s coming to North America next 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.  You should be particularly aware of flights through Toronto and Vancouver. 
• 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

You should have Morocco on your radar – it is technically in Africa, but more often than not added to European vacations.  It has incredible diversity of people, culture, and geography.  Compared to the rest of Africa, it is also easy to travel.

We were in Morocco in 2022 for twelve days – a relatively short period of time, but in those few days saw whole bunch of things typical of a Moroccan vacation experience:

• Marrakech: The Medinas, the cosmopolitan city scape, and the cross-roads of cultures of Arab, Jewish, and French colonialism. 
• High Atlas Mountains: A walk through the snow to stay at a family-run riad.
• Ait Ben Haddou.  This UNESCO site has remained largely unchanged since the 11^th Century, and has served as the backdrop in films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator and more recently Game of Thrones.  Nearby, they also operate the Moroccan equivalent of Universal Studio, if you want a peak into local movie production. 
• Carpet Making Cooperative — owned and operated by local women
• Oasis town of Zagora – Lots of places are described as an “Oasis”… Zagora IS an oasis town, and we stayed overnight here, and got a walking tour of the casbah.
• Desert Tent Camp – this is a staple of any visit to Morocco (complete with a camel ride!).  The infinite Sahara dunes possess a beauty beyond description.
• Salt Flats by 4 X 4 on the edge of the Sahara, where we met some nomadic Moroccans. 
• Essaouira – with a stunning Atlantic beach, and UNESCO World Heritage Site old town.

There are not many places where you can experience such diversity of geography, people, language, culture or activities.  

HOW to go to MOROCCO:

• Port Stop at CASABLANCA — A common stop on cruises that include the Canary Islands. 
• Port Stop at TANGIER – This city is on the Strait of Gibraltar on the Mediterranean side.  This will give you a little taste of Morocco, and is at the cross-road to Europe. 
• Land Tour — This is the best way: many worthwhile sites are away from the coast.

WHEN To Go TO MOROCCO

• When you’re in Southern Europe.  It combines well with Spain and Portugal.
• WEATHER:  Spring & Fall are the most moderate months for weather. 
• WINTER:  Far fewer crowds, but it will be colder than you think.  In Marrakech, the January temperature range is 43 to 66, but it will be MUCH colder in the Atlas Mountains and the desert. 
• SUMMER: The crowds are more moderate, but be ready for temperatures over 100.  

Morocco is a collision of cultures, language and geography.  There is much to see in a relatively small space, and it’s great for pre or post cruise when you’re visiting Spain or Portugal. 

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED Podcast

Check out our PODCAST where Kim & Bob talk about Morocco, and Sue & Bob’s trip there a couple of years ago.  There lots of photos in this VLOG too if you want a feel for Morocco:

https://youtu.be/OTxQx-0T0u8

In Case You Missed It:

COLLETTE GUIDED VACATIONS:  If you’re looking for a LAND-CRUISE to Morocco (or anywhere else on all seven continents), then COLLETTE’s worth a look.  They’re also our vendor of the month, so we can get you an additional $100 that can be applied to pre/post tour stays, OR optional excursions. 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/collette-guided-vacations/

TRAVEL APPS THAT I USE:  There’s lots of different tools out there to help you manage your travel.  Here are the ones that we use:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/travel-websites-and-apps-that-i-use/

THE 5-YEAR TRAVEL PLAN:  If you’re anything like me, time seems to move quicker and quicker.  This is the reason we need to convert our BUCKET LIST to our NEXT LIST (or it won’t happen!)

https://pamperedcruiser.com/off-the-bucket-list-and-on-the-next-list/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

STAR BREEZE Ship Tour:  WINDSTAR has three identical motor yachts, and we were on STAR BREEZE last year.  Here’s our ship tour video (also works for STAR LEGEND and STAR PRIDE).  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!

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

COLLETTE GUIDED VACATIONS

MOROCCO round-trip Casablanca for 15-days

• Start in Casablanca, and then visit Rabat (for Roman ruins and the walled city), Fes (for a stay at a RIAD, and visits to a winery, the Royal Palace, and the world’s oldest University), head into the Sahara and stay at Erfoud and visit the filming sites of many famous movies.  Take a 4 X 4 into a Saharan tented desert camp at Merzouga, where you can walk across the dunes, and take a camel ride.  See the Jewish and Muslim architecture and learn about Berber culture at Boumaine du Dades.  Stop in at Ait-Ben-Haddou where Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones were filmed.  Travel through the High Atlas Mountains en route to Marrakech where you’ll spend 3 days exploring the city. 
• Departures January through May, and September through December from $4699

MOROCCO & SPAIN:  Madrid to Casablanca for 17-days

• Fly to Madrid and stay for 2 nights.  Then on to Granada where you’ll see the seamless blend or Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures.  Next spend 2 nights in Seville to visit an Olive Farm, and take in a Flamenco demonstration.  Take the high-speed ferry to Northern Africa, where you’ll land in Tangier (Morocco) that has previously been occupied by both the British and the Portuguese.  Next move on the Fes, where you’ll see the scenic Atlas Mountains, visit the Jewish Quarter, and the local Medina.  Stay in the rural hamlet of Bin El Oudaine in the Atlas Mountains.  Finish your trip with 2 nights in cosmopolitan Marrakech before moving on to Casablanca to begin your trip home. 
• Departures February through May OR October through December from $4999

COLLETTE is our Vendor of the Month for November, so we can get you an additional $100 credit that can be used for pre/post extensions or for optional tours.  

Here’s more information about COLLETTE:  https://pamperedcruiser.com/collette-guided-vacations/ 

WINDSTAR YACHTING EXPERIENCE

With a maximum of 320 guests, Windstar offers a casual, yet elegant yachting experience with a strong focus on the culinary experience.

MOROCCO, SPAIN & PORTUGAL: Barcelona to Lisbon departing May 18 for 9-days

• Visit Valencia, Cartagena, Malaga, Tangier, Seville (overnight), Lisbon (overnight)
• Fares from $5999 or depart September 3 from $4099. 

MOROCCO, SPAIN & CANARY ISLANDS: Barcelona to Tenerife depart October 30 for 19-days

• Start in Barcelona, then visit Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena, Malaga (overnight), Tangier, Lisbon, Funchal, San Sebastian, Santa Cruz de Palma, Las Palmas, Tenerife.
• Fares from $6599

SILVERSEA Small Ship Luxury

If you prefer traditional luxury, here two cruises to MOROCCO with SILVERSEA:

MOROCCO, SPAIN & PORTUGAL: Lisbon round-trip departing March 24 for 13-days

• Visit Funchal (overnight), Casablanca, Tangier, Malaga (overnight), Gibraltar, Cadiz, 
• Veranda Fares from $5250

MOROCCO, SPAIN & PORTUGAL:  Barcelona to Lisbon depart November 30, 2026 for 9-days

• Visit Valencia, Malaga, Cadiz, Gibraltar, Casablanca (overnight). 
• Fares from $4550

AZAMARA Small Ship Destination Immersion

Azamara has a fleet of R-Class vessels carrying just 680 guests.  They offer an affordable way to get on board a smaller ship for a more intimate experience, and better destination immersion:

MOROCCO, PORTUGAL & SPAIN:  Lisbon to Rome departing November 17, 2026 for 18-nights

• Visit Portimao, Casablanca, Tangier, Cadiz, Seville (overnight), Gibraltar, Malaga, Cartagena, Valencia, Barcelona (overnight), Marseille, Nice (overnight), La Spezia, Florence (overnight). 
• Fares from $5229

Azamara also does COUNTRY INTENSIVE VOYAGES if you really want to immerse yourself in a particular place.  Here are some examples:

• Chile
• Croatia
• Greece
• Ireland
• Italy
• Japan
• Norway
• Scotland
• Spain

If you’d like to see AZAMARA’s full line-up of COUNTRY INTENSIVE Itineraries:

https://www.azamara.com/cruises?keywords=country-intensive

RIVER CRUISING with TAUCK

Morocco doesn’t have any rivers large enough for overnight river boats, but Portugal is right next door, and the two countries can easily be combined for a vacation:

PORTUGAL & SPAIN on the Douro River for one-week:

• Visit Porto, Douro valley, Peso da Regua, Pinhao, Vega de Terron, Mateus Palace, Guimaraes.
• 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 Madrid and/or Lisbon. 
• Departures April through October from $5790

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES

If the mountains, beaches, and deserts of MOROCCO aren’t your jam, here’s some ideas at the other ends of the earth:

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 $13,626

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 $14,823

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.  Here’s a few examples.  

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.

We made a short video about the Bon Voyage Program if you’d like more details:  

https://youtu.be/gBM8IvjIb3U?si=Vy9UDiSqZQYHWR32

Contact us to book your NEXT VIKING CRUISE

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 probably long forgotten the 1997 film:  MR. BEAN – THE ULTIMATE DISASTER MOVIE.  The movie gave you a chance to laugh at Mr. Bean’s expense on his trip overseas.  There are ruined outfits, lost luggage, run-ins with law enforcement, destruction of priceless art, car crashes and ruined dining experiences.

Hopefully your next trip abroad is not as eventful.  Bob and I have had a few “disasters”, so you can have a laugh at our expense, and learn from our mistakes.  Here we go:

Typically our disasters fall into one of these categories:

• Packing Errors (a self-imposed disaster, that can be easily remedied).  This is either forgotten items (like a charging cable) or OVERPACKING (a common mistake). 
• “Attitude” Errors – most obviously thinking that things abroad should be exactly as they are at home (another self-imposed disaster — usually brought on by ignorance).
• Airline Errors — these are overwhelmingly the most common disasters, and you have VERY LITTLE control over them, so often it becomes an “Attitude” Error. 

Here are some MITIGATING ACTIONS to avert travel disasters

• Checklist for Packing:  It’s NOT your first trip (or your last), so why not learn?  I started doing this after paying $100+ because I forgot a charging cable for my laptop. 
• Passport & Global Entry Card:  Bob and I ask each other “Can you put your hand on your passport?”  We annoy each other with this after having forgot a passport once.
• Trip Interruption Insurance:  After a flight delay, we recently spent $500 on an airport hotel room, rather than sleep in the holding lounge.  It was worth every penny, but even better when I got a reimbursement check from my insurance.
• Missed Flight (your fault):  We mixed up our flight TIME and our flight NUMBER – and missed the plane.  I threw myself at the mercy of the airline, and they were remarkably accommodating.  This was clearly my fault… so they didn’t have to do anything.
• Missed Flight (airline’s fault).  If you choose to take out your disgruntlement with the airline on the clerk that’s there to help fix it – you’ll LOSE.  Summon as much patience as you can, and be as polite as possible with the airline personnel.  It may be their employers fault, but they’re paid by the hour to deal with people like you.  Can’t be fun. 
• Travel Medical Insurance.  If you leave the country without this, you are taking a huge (and unnecessary) risk.  Many providers have APPs and you can access an English speaking doctor by video chat that can order prescriptions to a local pharmacy.  
• Create a Time Buffer.  We always go a day or two early before catching a ship.  This takes ALL the stress of flight delays or other unforeseen disasters off the table.  It also allows us to adjust to the time zone before our trip really starts. 
• Duplicate Important Documents:  Keep an image on your phone of your passport, Global Entry card, boarding passes, insurance documents etc. 
• Split Your Luggage:  Bob and I take 2 suitcases… each one containing HALF of each of our things.  If one of them goes missing, it’s not a complete disaster.  
• In-Transit Emergency Numbers:  Every now and then we wake up to a voice message from a panicked client who has had something go wrong.  Unfortunately if it’s 3.00 AM at home, we won’t be answering the phone.  This is why we send the 24-hour In-Transit Emergency contact details to you prior to your leaving.  

THE BOTTOM LINE – pack your patience and a sense of humor.  MOST travel disasters offer you very little control, and are somewhat inevitable.  If you do the things above, you’ll minimize, but not eliminate the potential for disaster.  At the very least, you’ll have stories to tell. 

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED Podcast:

Check out our PODCAST where Kim & Bob talk about some of their travel disasters, and how they dealt with it:  https://youtu.be/H2BaiYu_ETM   

In Case You Missed It:

TRAVELLING WITH MOBILITY ISSUES.  Just because you can’t move as fast as you once did is NO reason to stop travelling: 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/travelling-with-mobility-issues/

UNIWORLD with RAIL EXTENSIONS:  Uniworld has a number of itineraries that you can add pre or post RAIL journeys to a river cruise:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/train-travel-uniworld/

QUIET SEASON MEDITERRANEAN:  You’ll need to wear a coat, but the shore-side venues will be MUCH less crowded than in the May to September peak season.  

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

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

CAPPADOCIA:  You’ve seen the HOT AIR BALLOONS floating effortlessly over the desert.  If you find yourself starting or finishing a cruise in Istanbul, consider taking this once in a lifetime pre or post trip to Cappadocia.  Here’s our video blog from our time there: 

https://youtu.be/m6L12POlFqU

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

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

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
• Website Price: starting at $6745 per person
• SPECIAL PRICE: From $4745 per person (SAVE $2000 per person!)

Costa Rica & Central America (Panama City to Cozumel), departing Mar.13th 2026 (12 nights)

• Details: https://issuu.com/seacloudcruisesusa/docs/sea_cloud_big_book_2026_/100
• Visit San Blas Archipelago, Bocas del Toro (Panama), Puerto Limón (Costa Rica), Honduras, and Belize
• Website Price: starting at $8990 per person
• SPECIAL PRICE: From $6990 per person (SAVE $2000 per person!)

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

UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER COLLECTION

UNIWORLD has an early booking discount of up to 20% for 2027 departures.  Here’s the full list:

https://pamperedcruiser.uniworld.com/us/current-offers/2027-early-booking-savings

RIVER & RAIL Combinations with UNIWORLD

UNIWORLD has some pre/post river cruise RAIL trips.  RAIL trips are much like river cruises, in that you get to see a lot of different things, but only unpack once. 

TURKEY to FRANCE: Istanbul to Paris for 15-days

• Board the train for 6-nights starting in Istanbul, and then travel through Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria and France.  Transfer to your river boat, and spend one-week aboard sailing to Normandy, and back to Paris
• Departures in May, September or October 2026 from $24,398

ITALY to TURKEY: Milan to Istanbul 20-days

• 3-nights in Slovenia (Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Postojna), then to Venice for 7-nights on the ship, then to Trieste to board the train, where you’ll travel through Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, and Bulgaria before entering Turkey, and finishing in Istanbul for 2-nights.
• 2026:  April 30, August 20, or September 24 from $25,498

Here’s UNIWORLD’S webpage on RIVERS & RAIL:

https://pamperedcruiser.uniworld.com/us/cruise-and-rail

EXPLORA JOURNEYS – European Luxury Lifestyle Voyages

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

CARIBBEAN round-trip from Puerto Rico on March 11 for 15-nights

• Visit San Juan, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Maarten, British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Guadeloupe, Barbados, Martinique, Saint Kitts & Nevis. 
• Veranda fares from $7990

MEDITERRANEAN: Athens to Venice for 14-nights

• Visit Athens, Patmos, Istanbul (overnight), Bodrum, Mykonos, Syros, Paros, Corfu, Hvar, Rijeka, Venice.
• Depart July 27 from $8700 or August 14 from $9150. 

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

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

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with HX

If you’d like to see some places off the beaten path, HX can get you there in comfort.  You can also travel on the world’s first hybrid-electric cruise ship.  See our ship tour video here:

https://youtu.be/1L_ByDqhGR0

ANTARCTICA round-trip from Buenos Aires for 12-days, with 5-days of landings

• Includes flights to/from Ushuaia (from BA) to board the ship.
• Departures November through March from $10,221

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.  

• Depart January to April from $7264.
• May through December from $7986.
• See our video blogs from this trip:  https://youtu.be/3F38Km2EEjQ 

If you’re unsure if an EXPEDITION CRUISE is right for you, here’s an interview we did that addresses that: https://youtu.be/niB-OWhUSSs 

OCEANIA Smaller Ship Exploration

Oceania has a strong focus on the culinary experience, and position themselves between the Premium cruise lines and the Luxury Lines: 

ALASKA round-trip Seattle departing July 2 for 12-days

• Visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Wrangell, Klawock, Victoria
• Verandas from $5299

ICELAND round-trip Reykjavik departing July 24 for 10-days

• Visit 7 ports in Iceland, as well as 2 port calls in the Faroe Islands
• Veranda fares from $4699

Oceania has changed the inclusions offered in the base fare.  If it seems like they just did that… you are correct (but it was a year ago).  Your Oceania fare will now include:

• Onboard Gratuities
• Specialty Dining
• Unlimited Wifi
• Choice of Beer/Wine with meals OR Shore Excursion Credit

LAND CRUISES with TAUCK

ATLANTIC CANADA:  Round-trip from Halifax for 10-days

• Visit the famous lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove, see Lunenburg (a UNESCO site), witness the 38 foot tides at the Bay of Fundy, visit Saint John, do a Lobster Cruise on Shediac Bay, enjoy Charlottetown and Prince Edward Island, see the site of Anne of Green Gables, travel Cape Breton Island, and stop in at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site (this Scottish-born Canadian invented a lot more than just the telephone!)
• Departures June through September from $5990

MICHIGAN and Mackinac Island from Traverse City to Detroit for 8-days

• Visit Traverse City (for the sand dunes, vineyards, and sandy beaches), Petoskey, Mackinac island, Midland, Bay City, Frankenmuth Bavarian Village, Dearborn (for Henry Ford Museum), Detroit.
• Departures May through October from $5290
• Click here for more details: https://www.tauck.com/tours/michigan-lakes-mackinac-island-escorted-tour?tcd=mi2025&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 us refer to “Land Cruises” previously – those vacations that have the structure and rhythm of a cruise, but without the ship.  Historically, I resisted the idea of group travel.  In the old days (when people read books), we’d pick up the Lonely Planet Guide, or Rick Steeves Europe and fend for ourselves (and we did pretty good).

Now imagine if instead of a Rick Steeves guidebook, you could travel WITH Rick Steeves himself.  That’s what a “guided vacation” actually is.  I sometimes describe it as travelling with a hyper-organized friend that has already travelled through the region you want to explore. 

So here are some questions to consider if you’re looking at travelling by packaged land tour:

WHY Choose a GUIDED VACATION?

• You can’t go everywhere by ship.  We’ve chosen Guided Vacations to discover Central America, Morocco, Newfoundland, Poland, Thailand, and Turkiye.
• You get a better experience.  You’ll discover things you wouldn’t have otherwise because you’re travelling with a local guide.
• It can be cheaper.  In both Central America and Thailand, I’m sure I couldn’t have done the same trip as cost-effectively. 
• Trouble-shooting.  Missing a bus or a train was part of the adventure when we were younger.  Now it’s annoying and anxiety provoking. 
• Pre and/or Post Cruise.  If you can’t find a land extension you want through the cruise line, then look to a land tour operator to help you pre or post. 

HOW Does COLLETTE Differentiate?

• Collette is an American owned and family operated business since 1918.
• Small Group Offerings.  Collette’s “Explorations” have a maximum of 24 guests.
• Themed Trips:  Spotlight Tours (only unpack once!), Private Groups, Faith based trips. 
• Cancel For Any Reason as late as 24 hours prior to departure. 
• You are accompanied by a Tour Leader AND Local Guides

WHERE does COLLETTE Go?

• Everywhere… they have over 160 different Land Tours on all 7 continents.
• The most frequent requests we get are for Africa, Ireland, Italy and Morocco. 
• City Spotlight Tours are also a great way to see cities like New York, London or Paris.

QUESTIONS to Ask When Selecting a Land Cruise

• Size of Group.  How many people will you be travelling with?
• Pace.  How many nights in each place (how much packing and unpacking)?
• Quality of Hotels.  Are the hotels 3-star, 4-star, or 5-star accommodations?
• Inclusions:  How many meals?  Are the “shore” excursions?
• Unstructured Time:  What is the mix of scheduled and free time?
• Choices for Activities.  Is it like shore-excursion on ships?

Collette is a power-house in this often overlooked segment of the travel industry.  They are also our VENDOR OF THE MONTH for November, and we can get you an additional $100 credit that can be used towards optional tours, pre/post tour packages, etc.  Consider it like an On Board Credit as a bonus for booking this month. 

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED:

Check out our VIDEO BLOG where Kim & Bob talk about what a LAND CRUISE is, for whom it’s a good choice, and where COLLETTE fits in the market:   https://youtu.be/RJB9L3zCJLk 

In Case You Missed It:

WIFI ON CRUISE SHIPS:  Who has the fastest wifi, what can you expect, and hacks for getting the best connectivity when you’re on vacation:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/wifi-on-cruise-ships/

MEET THE TEAM:  We’re the FIRST people you “meet” on vacation.  Here’s a bit more information about our core team, and who you will end up communicating with:

https://pamperedcruiser.com/our-team-the-first-people-you-meet-on-vacation/

EGYPT:  There is a lot of pent-up demand for this destination, so if it’s on your BUCKET LIST, you need to start planning before it sells out (again): 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/egypt-its-time-to-experience-it/

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

We were on CRYSTAL SERENITY a few months ago, and we took a walk around the ship to share with our clients:  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!

TRAVELLING in SUMMER 2026?  BE READY

FIFA WORLD CUP is the largest sporting event on the planet, and it’s coming to North America next 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.  You should be particularly aware of flights through Toronto and Vancouver. 
• 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

Don’t wait until the last minute for ANY travel in June and July of 2026.  FIFA is only rivalled by the Olympic Games in terms of scope and size. 

Have something to say about this?

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

GUIDED TRAVEL with COLLETTE

You can do it on your own, but it will be easier, and quite possibly more cost-effective if you use COLLETTE for your next land vacation OR for pre/post cruise.  Here are the trips our clients ask for most frequently with COLLETTE:

AFRICAN SAFARI:  Kenya & Tanzania for 15-days round-trip Nairobi

• See Mt. Kilmanjaro, 12-game drives to spot the Big 5, see the Farmhouse from Out of Africa, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP.
• 2026: Departures weekly from $6999
• 2027: Departures weekly from $7699

ITALY: Rome and the Amalfi Coast for 10-days

• Stay in Rome for 3-nights to visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Vatican, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and just to enjoy the sidewalk vibe in Rome.  Then on to Amalfi, for coastal townships, beaches, Sorrento,  and Pompeii
• Optional Pre and/or Post in Florence and/or Naples
• 2026: Departures March through November from $3499.
• 2027: Departures March through November from $4999.

IRELAND from Dublin to Kilkenny for 15-days

• Visit Dublin, Belfast, Giant’s Causeway, Derry, Donegal, Wild Atlantic Way, Fermanagh, Devenish Island, Enniskillen, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, Kilkenny.
• 2026: Departures March through November from $5399
• 2027: Departures March through November from $5999

NATIONAL PARKS of AMERICA from Phoenix to Rapid City, SD for 12-days.

• Visit the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Teton, Buffalo Bill Center, Mt. Rushmore, the Crazy Horse monument, Lake Powell.  
• Departures May through October from $4999 per person. 

CITY SPLOTLIGHT 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 $2299.

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 $2699

Here are some of COLLETTE’s other SPOTLIGHT tours:

• The French Riviera – 9-days from $2599
• London – 7-days from $2499
• Northern Italy – 9-days from $2349
• South Dakota, Mt. Rushmore & the Badlands – 7-days from $2649
• Tuscany – 9-days from $2149
• Washington, DC – 6-days from $2499

As our VENDOR OF THE MONTH, Collette is offering an additional $100 credit that can be used on pre/post tour stays, or optional tours. 

On the RIVER with AMA WATERWAYS

You can take a Land Cruise to just about anywhere, but there are some destinations that lend themselves better to travelling by ship.  Here are two:

EGYPT for 11-nights (4 nights Cairo and 7-nights on the ship)

• See the Pyramids and Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum (with King Tut’s room), Temple of Karnak, Temple of Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Abu Simbel, and a Nile Felucca ride. 
• Egypt is experiencing incredible demand – book your trip before it sells out. 
• 2026:  Departures from $6029
• 2027:  Departures from $5749

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 $2899
• 2027: Departures March – December from $3179

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

CRYSTAL Small Ship Luxury

All the small-ship cruise lines have their claims to fame.  For Crystal: the maximum amount of space per passenger.  See why Crystal Cruises has the most loyal guests in the industry:

SOUTH AMERICA: from Buenos Aires to Santiago departing November 11, 2027 for 18-nights

• South America ENCOMPASSED!  Visit Uruguay, Puerto Madryn, Falkland Islands, Ushuaia, Punta Arenas (overnight), 2-days in the Chilean Fjords, and then 4 port stops in Chile before finishing with an overnight in Santiago. 
• Fares from $8830

AUSTRALIA & BALI departing Melbourne on February 27 for 18-nights

• Visit Sydney, Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Cairns (overnight), Thursday Beach, Darwin, Kupang, Komodo Island, and finish in Bali (overnight).
• Fares from $10,000

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS – Lindblad

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

OREGON & WASHINGTON: Columbia River from Portland to Clarkston for 6-days

• Visit Portland, The Dalles (for Multnomah Falls and fish hatchery), Columbia Gorge, Walla Walla, Palouse River.  Traverse the locks by river boat right here at home!
• Go hiking, kayaking, ride on the zodiacs, visit museums and wineries
• 2026: March/April from $3675.  September/October from $4243.

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.

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

GET OVER YOURSELF (sorry for the tough-love!).  If (like the rest of us), you’re not as quick and agile as you once were, and you still want to travel, then don’t rule a cane, walking sticks, a foldable scooter, or some other mobility aid.

You’ve probably seen this advice for the mobility sequence of aging before: 

• GO-GO – Get in as much as you can, while you’re able to do so.  
• GO-SLOW – Still travel, but be a bit more cautious about what you take on.
• NO-GO – we want to put this off as long as possible, but at some point travelling will become too onerous even for the most fit amongst us.

Today, I want to chat about the GO-SLOW phase.  You CAN still travel:

WHERE

• Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, United States:  Travel mobility is easier. 
• Europe:  Remember that much of the infrastructure may be centuries old, and elevators, wheelchair ramps etc. have been retrofitted where possible (and sometimes it’s not possible).  Cobblestone roads are charming, but not great for mobility aids. 
• Africa & Asia:  Can be challenging for those with mobility impairments.

MODES OF TRAVEL:

• OCEAN Cruises:  Usually very good for mobility challenges.  Be aware of the number and frequency of ports requiring tenders to get ashore. 
• RIVER Cruises:  Not great for mobility challenges.  Mobility aids are difficult to store on board these small ships, but if you just need a slower walking group… you’ll be fine. 
• EXPEDITION:  You’ll be on and off zodiac boats (the minimum mobility requirement).
• LAND Cruises:  Highly dependent on the destination. 

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

If you can extend the number of years you’re out exploring the world, by using a scooter or a walker, then why wouldn’t you? Again… GET OVER YOURSELF! 

• Choose the right mode of travel for you (see above). 
• If only one partner has mobility issues, then you’ll have come to some understanding. 
• Accessible rooms are available on Ocean Ships, and can make life much easier. 
• Special Needs at Sea – you can have mobility aids delivered to your ship. 
• Request Airline boarding assistance if you have mobility challenges.  
• If you have an electric mobility aid, give some thought to where, how, and how easily you’ll be able to charge it.

Travel is one of the great privileges of being born into this time and place, and you SHOULD travel as late into life as possible.  By doing a bit of planning, you CAN travel with mobility issues, but there will be some trade-offs, and you’ll need to book earlier.

Happy Sailing – whether you roll, walk or scooter down the gangway. 

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED:

Check out our VIDEO BLOG where Kim & Bob talk about managing mobility issues when you travel:  https://youtu.be/vl8cNQ9cbj4 

In Case You Missed It:

UK & IRELAND.  Look at these ideas for itineraries, and for getting in and out of London to meet your ship:  https://pamperedcruiser.com/uk-ireland-destination-spotlight/ 

HOW TRAVEL CHANGED ME:  Bob muses about how a trip nearly 40 years ago, is still making a difference in his life: https://pamperedcruiser.com/how-travel-changed-me/ 

REGENT SEVEN SEAS is the MOST inclusive cruise line, and here’s your last chance to get $1000 almost any itinerary with them: https://pamperedcruiser.com/regent-seven-seas/ 

Featured YOUTUBE Video:

WHY You Should Book Your VIKING Cruise With Us: https://youtu.be/DZHzPU4NhTw

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/pfbid02dkfnU4EjPw3mUd58vsfN7enpzHph5FBCndVLBiUBjsZHUc7mvEXMh2ThbCQhGQ3El

Today’s Travel Opportunities

REGENT SEVEN SEAS – Small Ship Ocean Luxury

LAST CHANCE to save $1000 per person during our Private Sale.  Here’s all the details:  https://pamperedcruiser.com/regent-seven-seas/

Here are two itineraries that are close to home.  All REGENT cruises include unlimited excursions, an open bar, gratuities, specialty dining, unlimited wifi, and laundry service.  These two itineraries also include Free Business Class Air:

ALASKA: Departing Vancouver on June 17 for 7-nights:

• Sail the Inside Passage, then visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, cruise Hubbard Glacier, and finish in Anchorage. 
• Fares from $6999 (LESS $1000 Private Sale Savings), and includes round-trip Business Class Air, and Private Airport Transfers.

CANADA NEW ENGLAND departing Montreal September 17 for 11-nights:

• Visit Quebec City, Saguenay, Sept-Iles, Havre Saint Pierre, Charlottetown, Sydney, Halifax, Saint John, Bar Harbor, and finish in Boston.
• Fares from $12,799 (LESS $1000 Private Sale Savings), includes round-trip Business Class Air, and Private Airport Transfers.

RIVER CRUISES with TAUCK

PORTUGAL & SPAIN on the Douro River for one-week:

• Visit Porto, Douro valley, Peso da Regua, Pinhao, Vega de Terron, Mateus Palace, Guimaraes.
• 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 Madrid and/or Lisbon. 
• Departures April through October from $5790

TULIP CRUISE: Amsterdam to Brussels for 9-days

• Visit Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, the Hague, Kinderdijk, Rotterdam, Keukenhof Gardens, Enkhuizen, Amsterdam (overnight). 
• There are a handful of staterooms left for THIS April from $5690

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS: Viking Great Lakes

OK – the Great Lakes aren’t THAT remote, but they are less frequented by cruise ship passengers, and you can go with Viking to check out their Expedition Vessels (that are perfectly suited to Great Lakes travel:

GREAT LAKES with VIKING for 8-days between Milwaukee and Toronto

• Visit Toronto, traverse the locks of the Welland Canal, Niagara Falls, Point Pelee NP, Detroit, Alpena (MI), Mackinac Island, Milwaukee
• 2026: Nordic Balconies from $7995.  Departures April through October
• 2027: Nordic Balconies from $5995.  Departures May through September.
• Here’s our ITINERARY VIDEO from when we did this trip: https://youtu.be/uDeGzBDb0mM 

GREAT LAKES with VIKING for 15-days between Duluth MN and Toronto

• Visit Toronto, traverse the locks of the Welland Canal, Niagara Falls, Cleveland, Detroit, Alpena, Algoma (Wisconsin), Mackinac Island, Fathom Five National Marine Park (submarine available) , Killarney (Ontario), Georgian Bay, Soo Locks transit, Silver Islet, Thunder Bay (submarine available), Duluth.
• 2026: Nordic Balconies from $16,995.  Departures June through August.
• 2027: Nordic Balconies from $13,995.  Departures May through August.

See our Ship Tour video of Viking Polaris here: https://youtu.be/izwAZ6NdFOo 

See the Submarine and the HANGAR here: https://youtu.be/XlKq3ow2JrM 

YACHTING with WINDSTAR

Imagine sailing with 300 people or less in an upscale but very casual setting.  That’s WINDSTAR.

ICELAND: Round-trip from Reykjavik for 7-days

• Visit Reykjavik, Sertsey Island, Helmaey Island, Seydisfjordur (overnight), Akureyri, Isafjordur, Grundarfjordur.
• 2026: Depart July or August from $4799
• 2027: Depart July or August from $4199

JAPAN from Tokyo to Kobe for 10-days

• Visit Shimizu, Shingu, Kagoshima, Hashima Island, Nagasaki, Busan, Karatsu, Hiroshima, Takumatsu.  
• 2026:  Sold Out
• 2027:  Fares from $7299 with departures April through October

AZAMARA Affordable Small Ship Luxury

Azamara is a cost-effective way to travel by small ship.  With only 680 guests, these R-Class vessels are guest favorites.  Your fare includes on board gratuities, an open bar, some shore activities, and a shuttle service into the city center at port stops where that is necessary. 

They also run COUNTRY-INTESIVE voyages.  Here are two examples:

ITALY INTENSIVE from Rome to Venice departing August 22 for 11-nights

• Depart Rome and visit Sorrento, Amalfi, Sicily (2 ports), Crotone, Taranto, Kotor, Bologna, and finish with an overnight in Venice. 
• Verandas from $5049

CROATIA INTENSIVE from Venice to Athens departing June 29 for 9-nights

• Visit Venice, Opitija, Zadar, Sibenik, Split, Dubrovnik, Korcula, Kotor, Athens
• Verandas from $4969

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, and are the two most popular Rocky Mountaineer itineraries:

Vancouver to Banff for 5-nights

• Spend 1-night in Vancouver, then board the train to Kamloops (overnight), and then follow on to Lake Louise for 1-night and Banff for 2-nights.
• Prices range between $2904 and $4968 per person based on your departure date, and level of service.  Departures available April through October. 

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.
• Prices range between $9940 to $12,110 per person based on your departure date, and level of service.  Departures available April through October.

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.

We made a short video about the Bon Voyage Program if you’d like more details:  

https://youtu.be/gBM8IvjIb3U?si=Vy9UDiSqZQYHWR32 
Contact us to book your NEXT VIKING CRUISE

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