TIPPING service providers is such an ingrained part of our culture, it’s often an oversight when we travel to other countries.  When do you tip, when DON’T you tip?  How much is enough?  Do you have to use the local currency, or does USD work?  What about gratuities on board cruise ships?  Here we go….

TIPPING ON CRUISE SHIPS

In the old days, the cruise line would provide a stack of envelopes for you to put cash to recognize your service providers.  About 25 years ago, they moved to billing gratuities to your room charges.  There are a number of advantages:

• It’s easier.  The cruise line distributes tips to the crew (and yes, there are independent audits that verify this is happening effectively). 
• You can pay by credit card… because it is charged to your room. 
• It’s more equitable:  The dish-washer works just as hard as your waiter, and is every bit as critical to the delivery of great service.  You DON’T see him/her, so in the old system, this person would NOT be recognized. 

Tipping is always at your discretion, but a question we sometimes get: “Can I remove the automatic gratuities from my room charges, and instead recognize people individually?”.  The short answer is “Yes”, but you should NOT do so.  Here’s why:

• Most of the people providing service to you are invisible, and they will get paid LESS as a result of this action.
• You are undoubtedly aware that those working on cruise ships get paid very little, and they rely on your tips for their livelihood.

TIPPING ON LAND

You need to be aware of what the tipping culture is in whatever country you are visiting.  Here’s a (somewhat imprecise) guideline:  

• The lower the latitude of the country, the MORE they rely on tips to make ends meet.  There are exceptions (like the United States or Canada – higher latitude countries, where service providers DO rely on tips).  
• In Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and other developed economies, service providers are paid a living wage, and tipping is less required, and in some cases COULD be considered rude or arrogant.

WHAT ABOUT CRUISES IN EUROPE? 

The crew on board are paid very little, even though they are operating in Europe.  Tipping on board is encouraged.  Tipping on land in Western and Northern Europe is less necessary.  In Eastern Europe, you should consider tipping. 

WHAT CURRENCY SHOULD I USE:

• If you’re paying by credit card, the currency is not a consideration (but DO make sure the tip is added if those are your wishes).  There may NOT be a prompt to add a tip.  
• Local currency is ideal, when you’re in the country for a while.
• Euros or USD are acceptable substitutes if you don’t have local currency.  The general rule here is if you’re closer to Europe, use Euros.  If you’re closer to the US, then use USD.  

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED:

Check out our VIDEO BLOG where Kim & Bob talk about TIPPING when you’re travelling abroad:

https://youtu.be/rDQ-yMtTU6Q

In Case You Missed It:

JAPAN:  There continues to be high demand to visit this country.  Here’s some different ways to see it: 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/japan-destination-focus/

AMA WATERWAYS:  AMA has a strong focus on culinary, has a wide choice of included shore excursions, and your final payment is due 90-days prior to departure. 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/ama-waterways-private-sale-90-day-final-payment/

HOW WE USE AI:  There’s no doubt ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE will change the travel business.  Here’s how we intend to use it (HINT:  We’re doubling-down on the human connection)

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

Featured YOUTUBE Post:

AMA WATERWAYS Shore Excursions.  Bob chats with AMA’s Co-Owner Kristin Karst about what to expect for your AMA shore excursions, and how they are different than other river cruise lines:  https://youtu.be/YK30TUkkueY

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

AMA WATERWAYS on the RIVER

We’re holding space on SPECIFIC VOYAGES that have some special pricing:

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

• Visit Amsterdam (overnight), Dusseldorf, Rhine Gorge, Rudesheim, Ludwigshafen, Strasbourg, Breisach, Basel 
• Fares from $3898 (less 5% on Category D rooms only).

PORTUGAL & SPAIN departing May 5 for one-week

• The Douro River is incredibly popular, and space for this year is difficult to find.
• 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 $5298 (less 5% on Category D rooms only)

Paris & Normandy round-trip Paris departing September 17, 2026 for one-week

• Visit Les Andelys, Le Havre, Honfleur, Normandy Landing Beaches, Caudebec-en-Caux, Rouen, Vernon, Paris (overnight). 
• Optional 2-night Paris Extention
• Fares start at $5448, and we can get you 5% off any available cabin

AZAMARA – Small Ship Experiences

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 a few examples:

SPAIN INTENSIVE from Barcelona to Lisbon departing November 11 for 11-nights 

• Visit Barcelona, Valencia, Majorca, Alicante, Motril, Malaga, Ceuta, Seville (2 nights), Lisbon
• Verandas from $2519

ITALY INTENSIVE from Nice to Venice departing May 2 for 10-nights

• Visit Nice, Florence (overnight), Rome, Sorrento, Amalfi, Crotone, Kotor, Bologna, Venice
• Verandas from $3769

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

• Visit Venice, Opitija, Zadar, Sibenik, Split, Dubrovnik, Korcula, Kotor, Athens
• Verandas from $3739

SEACLOUD – Salt-Water River Cruises

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.  

Be one of the first to try this brand that is new to the American marketplace.

CARIBBEAN’S ABC Islands departing February 9 for 8-nights

• Start in Curacao, then sail to Bonaire, Aruba, Cartagena (overnight), San Blas (Panama), and finish in Colon (to fly out of Panama City). 
• Fares from $5140*

CARIBBEAN: Philipsburg (St. Maarten) round-trip departing March 26 for 7-nights

• Visit St. Barts, Dominica, Isles des Saintes, Martinique, Anguilla, 
• Fares from $4495*

MEDITERRANEAN: Naples to Nice departing October 6 for 7-nights

• Visit Bastia (Corsica), Viareggio (Italy), Portofino, Menton (France), St. Tropez
• Fares from $4305*

*SeaCloud fares include all taxes and fees, on-board gratuities, an open bar, internet on the ship, and some shore activities.  We are also able to add a $250 per person on board credit to any bookings made in August. 

DOMESTIC LAND CRUISES with TAUCK

Explore our own backyard with all the details taken care of by Tauck.  Here’s some examples:

US NATIONAL PARKS: America’s Canyonlands departing Phoenix to Las Vegas for 8-days

• Visit Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion NP, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon
• Departures March through October from $4990
• Click here for more details: https://www.tauck.com/tours/american-canyonlands-grand-canyon-escorted-tour?insider=mmjy-sue-bob-bradley-the-pampered-cruiser 

SOUTHEAST US from Jacksonville to Charleston for 8-days

• Visit St. Augustine, Jekyll Island, Savannah, Beaufort.
• 2025: Departures in September and October from $5490
• 2026: Departures March through December from $5290

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.
• 2025: Departures in October from $5290 per person.
• 2026: 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

A number of years ago, Seabourn was our very first experience on a small-ship luxury cruise, and they won me over.  Cruise vacations are great value, and I was finally able to understand first-hand why people want to pay more for a small-ship experience:

• SMALL SIZE:  With only 450 – 600 guests, you’re not competing with thousands of others for a deck chair, or for embarkation/disembarkation.
• INTIMACY:  Because the crew is not dealing with thousands of guests, they get to know your name and your preferences quickly.

• INCLUSIVENESS:  Having a waiter come and top up your glass of wine, rather than taking your key card is more like being a guest in someone’s home.  Your gratuities and specialty dining is also included in the fare. 
• SHORE STOPS:  Some ports CAN’T handle 5000 people at a time, so you get to some places the mega-ships can’t go. 
• SEABOURN MOMENTS:  The crew go out of their way to surprise and delight.  Like coming in from a cold day on a glacier hike, and returning to your room with a hot bath already drawn for you. 
• CELEBRITY HOSTS.  Seabourn has Celebrity Hosts on some voyages.  Previous hosts include Dan Rather, Tim Rice, and Andrew Weill.  If you’re a reader, here are some famous authors who will be hosting in the next year:
  • Robert K Wittman on April 24, from Tokyo to Vancouver. 
  • Ann Cleeves on December 20, in Australia & New Zealand .  
  • Ann Cleeves on May 30, in Scotland and Iceland. 
  • Zelda La Grange April 27, on a Trans-Atlantic journey. 
• EXPEDITION “LITE”:  The Ventures Program in Alaska, and select other destinations allows guests to try out expedition-style shore excursions on a full service luxury ship.  This is different than Seabourn’s purpose-built expedition ships (see below). 
• ALL SUITES: If small cruise ship staterooms annoy you, all the rooms on Seabourn are spacious suites with luxury amenities.

Remote Destinations with SEABOURN?

Seabourn launched its EXPEDITION line of cruises with two purpose built ships.  VENTURE was launched in 2022, and PURSUIT in 2023.  Why might you consider these?

• With only 264 guests, you’ll get up close to nature in remote corners of the world.

• Both ships have PC6 Polar Class hulls, each with two submarines on board.
• The suites on board the Seabourn Expedition ships are the nicest ones at sea.  Check out the two-story Wintergarden Suite!
• They go to remote corners of the planet, and take you there in comfort and style:
  • Antarctica
  • Kimberly Coast (Western Australia)
  • Amazon River Basin
  • Norwegian Arctic
  • Canadian Northwest Passage

PRIVATE SALE DETAILS

• We’re running a private sale with Seabourn this month that can get you up to 10% OFF a long list of sailings in 2025 and 2026.
• European departures are eligible for a 5% discount.
• Seabourn’s luxury small ships, AND their luxury expedition ships are included. 

Reach out for more details.

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED:

Check out our VIDEO BLOG where Kim & Bob talk about their experiences on Seabourn, and what you can expect on board: https://youtu.be/TSRzpOUnve4 

In Case You Missed It:

CANADA:  Our Northern neighbour (notice the spelling), is far too large to be considered ONE destination.  Take a look at the different options:

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

TRAVEL HACKS:  Currency? Language barriers? Telecom issues? Metric measures?  Here are the systems and APPs we use when we’re abroad. 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/travel-hacks-you-can-use/

BEING AN AMERICAN OVERSEAS:  There’s lots of “news” stories about the treatment of Americans overseas.  So far this year, we’ve visited Mexico, Canada, and six countries in Europe.  Here’s what we experienced. 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/being-an-american-abroad/

Featured YOUTUBE Post:

GALAPAGOS Snorkeling:  Here’s a quick video of some of the things we saw UNDERWATER when we visited a year ago: 

https://youtu.be/jOFrPcGFkCk

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

OCEAN -Seabourn

Our PRIVATE SALE can get you up to 10% off Seabourn’s best fares for itineraries in 2025 and 2026, as long as we book it for you in the month of August.  Here are a few examples of the over 400 itineraries included in our PRIVATE SALE:

PANAMA CANAL departing LA on April 7 for 19-days

• Visit Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco, Puerto Chiapas, Guatemala, Costa Rica, daylight full transit of Panama Canal, Cartagena, Miami.
• Fares from $6799 (Less 10%)

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND departing Auckland on January 4 or 19 for 15-days.

• Visit Napier, Wellington, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Timaru, Dunedin, Fjordland NP, Melbourne, Eden, Sydney. 
• Fares from $7649 (Less 10%)

JAPAN for Cherry Blossoms departing Tokyo on March 16 or 30 (or April 13) for 14-nights

• Visit Kobe, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Busan, Shimonoseki, Hiroshima, Beppu, Kochi, Shimizu, Yokahama. 
• Fares from $10,284 (LESS 10%)

ALASKA departing Vancouver for 7-nights on May 29 (with other dates available) 

• Visit Queen Charlotte Sound, Ketchikan, Sitka, Hubbard Glacier, Inian Islands, Icy Strait Point, Haines, and finish in Juneau. 
• Fares from $5898 (LESS 10%)
• OR go round-trip Vancouver for 14-nights, and also visit Wrangell, Misty Fjords National Monument, Prince Rupert, Whale Channel, and Alert Bay.  Fares from $9498 (LESS 10%)

CANADA & NEW ENGLAND:  NYC to Montreal departing September 13, 2026 for 12-nights:

• Visit Newport, Boston, Rockland (MN), Halifax, Charlottetown, Saguenay, Quebec City, Montreal. 
• Fares from $9998 (LESS 10%)
• Depart October 19  from $8998 (LESS 10%)

DIDN’T SEE the right itinerary for you?  We have over 400 itineraries in 2025 and 2026 eligible for our PRIVATE SALE.  

SEABOURN REMOTE ADVENTURES

ANTARCTICA round-trip Buenos Aires departing February 6 for 11-days

• Itinerary: Overnight in Buenos Aires before flying to Ushuaia to board the ship.  Two days to cross the Drake Passage, followed by 5-days of scheduled landings on the continent.  Fare includes charter flights between BA and Ushuaia in both directions. 
• Fares from $11,729 (LESS 10%)
• Depart February 28 from $9604.

AUSTRALIA: KIMBERLEY COAST from Darwin to Broome departing June 26 for 10-days

• See the waterfalls, visit fresh water reefs, see the horizontal waterfalls at Talbot Bay, visit with the Wunambal Gaambera indigenous peoples, learn about the pearl trade in Kuri Bay, and the mangrove forests at Hunter River, and Darwin.
• Fares from $9604 (LESS 10%).  Other dates available. 

AMAZON RIVER round-trip from Belem (Brazil) departing October 21, 2025 for 9-days:

• Visit Macapa to visit the Equator Marker, then do several days exploring tiny Amazonian villages, local markets in Santarem, and do scenic cruising, bird watching, and wildlife spotting by zodiac, kayak, and on foot.
• Fares from $5099 (LESS 10%) 

These purpose built expedition vessels hold just 264 people, and allow you to explore the remote corners of the planet in luxurious comfort.  There are also two submarines on board to experience what is UNDER the water. 

RIVER CRUISES for Families 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 $5490

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

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

You don’t have to be an elite athlete, but if you like to be active on vacation, here are some ideas.  These trips are also perfect for PHOTOGRAPHERS: 

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.  
• Departures January through March from $3155, with additional incentives for January departures.  Contact us for details. 

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS round-trip from Quito (or Guayaquil) for 10-days

• Visit for 2 days in Quito or Guayaquil, then fly to Baltra to board Endeavour II in the Galapagos.  Over the next week stop in at North Seymour Island, Isabella Island, Fernandina, Espanola, Floreana, Santa Cruz, Bartolome, Santiago, Genovesa, San Cristobal.
• Departures in January and February from $5722, with additional incentives available.  Contact us for details.

BRITISH ISLES: England, Ireland, Scotland from London to Edinburgh for 12-days

• Visit London, Fowey (Cornwall), Scilly, Cobh, West Coast of Ireland, Inner Hebrides, Outer Hebrides, Shetland Islands, Orkney Islands, Aberdeen, Edinburgh.
• Depart April 26, 2026 from $12,745, with additional incentives available.  Contact us for details.

LAND CRUISES close to home with COLLETTE

Northern California and Yosemite for 8-days

• Visit Monterey, Carmel, Modesto (for Yosemite), Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, Napa Valley, San Francisco.
• 2025: Departures in September & October from $3249
• 2026: Departures March through October from $3299

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 in Times Square, 5 meals, and 2 Broadway shows.
• 2025: Departures in October from $2899
• 2026: Departures April through November from $2499.
• 1-minute ‘Spotlight on New York’ video: https://youtu.be/_rRyuJ38vYc?si=CKlmKP0UKvNXTT2j

NORTHERN LIGHTS in Alaska for 7-days

• Visit Anchorage, Prince William Sound, Talkeetna, and travel the railroad to Fairbanks
• 2026: February & March departures from $4399.

VISITING THE UK?

You now need to complete an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) if you are visiting or connecting a flight anywhere in the UK.  England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland require US Passport Holders to complete this prior to arrival.  Here’s a video we did that contains all the details:  https://youtu.be/6NGfCqOsDKk

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

Amongst all your travel questions, you sometimes ask how the travel business works.  Some industries, you probably DON’T want to know how the sausage is made, but in the travel industry it’s transparent.  Here’s what’s “behind the curtain”.

The Price You Pay:

• CRUISE: prices are set by the cruise lines, and we (nor anyone else) can mark them up, or discount them.  It’s NOT like a hardware store where the proprietor buys a hammer from a manufacturer, then marks it up and re-sells it to you.  
• PRIVATE SALES & GROUPS Pricing:  Cruise prices are generally set (it will cost you exactly the same no matter where you buy it).  The exception is Private Sales or Group Sales where we commit to selling a certain number of cabins for a discount (usually 5% – 10%).
• PLANNING FEES:  We DON’T charge you fees because we are selling cruise and packaged land tours.  There are travel advisors that do custom travel itineraries, and the good ones WILL charge you an hourly fee for that professional service. 
• AMENITIES:  We can get you extra goodies (not available on direct bookings) on most of the vendors we deal with.  They do this because they want us to steer you towards their brand.  We want to help you make the best match, so I’d suggest these amenities are a nice bonus, but shouldn’t sway your decision. 

How the Industry is Structured

Bob and I own and operate The Pampered Cruiser, and we like to frame ourselves as a Mom & Pop style small business.  We have A LOT of weight behind us, that allows us to operate as a much larger business when that’s in the best interests of our clients.  Imagine the hierarchy with YOU – the customer – at the top:

• CLIENTS: people that pay for travel products and professional travel services.
• The PAMPERED CRUISER: Our brand as independent travel advisors.
• Direct Travel:  Our HOST AGENCY.  DT acts like a national real estate company does in that industry.  DT provides legal and accounting services to us in exchange for a percentage of our commissions.  Their size gives us more leverage with vendors.
• Virtuoso:  Our TRAVEL CONSORTIUM.  Virtuoso is an invitation-only global cooperative of travel agencies that focus on luxury leisure travel.  They provide support for us (and those working with us), AND additional amenities for our clients. 

How We Differentiate in a Crowded Industry

We’re REAL people.  Not AI simulations, and not a big call center.  Here’s why that matters:

• We Travel.  You’d be surprised how many travel advisors don’t actually travel.
• We Have Opinions.  Because we travel, we’ll offer our opinions.  We’re careful to separate facts from our opinions, and give you both so you can make up your own mind. 
• AI and Automation is a tool… not a product.  On-line agencies have slick systems, but the AI and bots they use haven’t travelled to where you’re going.  They’re aggregating on-line reviews (that are easily manipulated) to tell you what everyone else thinks.  

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED:

Check out our VIDEO BLOG where Kim & Bob offer an inside look at the travel industry, and how Pampered Cruiser and its clients fit in.  https://youtu.be/zd_FpAqS-8Q 

In Case You Missed It:

OVER-TOURISM:  The media reports are not accurate or responsible, but OVER-TOURISM is a real issue.  Here’s what you can do to manage: 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/over-tourism-and-what-you-can-do/

CRYSTAL CRUISES:  Here’s TWO reasons to consider CRYSTAL:

1. For the month of July, we can get you additional on board credits.  See the details here: https://pamperedcruiser.com/crystal-whats-new-whats-cherished/
2. Travel with FRIENDS in 2025:  On a long list of 2025 departures, if you buy one cabin, you can get a second cabin at 50% off.  Time to travel with friends!  https://crystalcruises.com/offer/us-multi-suite-savings

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS:  This UNESCO Heritage Site and protected reserve, is like nowhere else on the planet if you want to see scenery and wildlife.  It’s also only a few hours from the United States by plane:   https://pamperedcruiser.com/galapagos-islands-destination-focus/ 

Featured YOUTUBE Post:

WHAT is an EXPEDITION CRUISE?  Do you have to super-fit to enjoy an Expedition Cruise?  NO.  Do you have to be curious and thoughtful about the world around you?  YES.  Bob interviews Alex from HX to DEMYSTIFY Expedition Cruising: https://youtu.be/niB-OWhUSSs 

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

Uniworld Boutique River Collection

Uniworld operates custom-built and decorated ships that are specific to the region through which you are travelling.  They also have some itineraries NOT available on other river cruise lines:

ITALY: VENICE & Northern Italy for 7-nights

• Visit Venice (several spots), Mazzorbo, Burano, Chioggia.
• Departs every Sunday from April – October.  This is far more interesting and cost-effective than staying in a hotel in Venice for a week.
• 2025:  Availability on departures September through November from $3679.
• 2026:  Departures in May/June or September from $3869.  July/August from $2399

Here’s a link to our video blog when we did this cruise: https://youtu.be/QRIHi6SED6g?si=IJvnYEJlqJt_iV4n 

There are a number of add-ons you can make to this cruise: 

• ADD: 2-nights in Milan
• ADD:  Lugano (Switzerland)  & Lake Como
• ADD: Rome 3-nights.  Includes a city tour, and a tour of the Vatican.

AMAZON Headwaters round-trip from Lima for 11-days

• 7 nights sailing on the Amazon and 3 nights in Lima. 
• Your ship, the Aria Amazon, only holds 32 guests, and there are floor-to-ceiling windows in every suite, offering unparalleled views of this pristine part of the world.
• Have lunch with a family in Lima, visit a remote Amazon village, shop at a local market, take a skiff ride at night to view nocturnal creatures, visit local artisan and craft markets, and more. 
• 2025: Sold Out 
• 2026: Departures January through June from $11,699.
• ADD: Extension to Machu Picchu, Rio de Janeiro and Iguazu Falls

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.

• 2025: Departures October – December from $5999
• 2026: Departures January – May from $5599
• Details here: https://pamperedcruiser.uniworld.com/us/river-cruise/egypt/nile/splendors-of-egypt-and-the-nile/2025-cairo-to-cairo

EXPLORA JOURNEYS – European Luxury Lifestyle

With a great culinary offering, a unique entertainment concept and brand new ships, Explora Journeys is worth a try.  If you want to take this new brand for a test drive, here are two itineraries close to home:

CARIBBEAN round-trip from Puerto Rico for 15-nights

• Visit San Juan, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Saint Maarten, British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Guadeloupe, Barbados, Martinique, Saint Kitts & Nevis. 
• 2025: Depart November 20 from $5600
• 2026: Depart March 11 from $5487

CARIBBEAN: round-trip Miami departing Jan 5, 2026 for 10-nights

• Visit San Andreas (Colombia), Colon (Panama), Bocas del Toro (Panama), Puerto Limon (Costa Rica), George Town (Grand Cayman)
• Veranda Fares from $5580

If you prefer Europe: 

MEDITERRANEAN: Athens to Venice departing August 14, 2026 for 14-nights

• Visit Athens, Patmos, Istanbul (overnight), Bodrum, Mykonos, Syros, Paros, Corfu, Hvar, Rijeka, Venice.
• 2026: Depart July 27 or August 14 from $8700. 

NORTHERN EUROPE: Reykjavik to Quebec City departing September 17, 2026 for 11-nights

• Visit 2 ports in Iceland, then sail to Greenland to visit 3 ports, then on to Canada, where you’ll stop in 2 of Quebec’s Eastern townships, before arriving in Quebec City (overnight).  
• 2026: Fares from $10,890

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

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

If you’re planning well in advance, Explora Journeys is offering 5% off as an early booking bonus for cruises departing October 2026 or later:  https://explorajourneys.com/us/en/info/special-offers/explora-early-booking-benefit?insider=mmjy-sue-bob-bradley-the-pampered-cruiser 

HX REMOTE EXPLORATIONS

If you like to explore the more remote corners of the planet, and get up close to nature and wildlife, HX is a good choice for you.  You DON’T have to be an Olympic Athlete, but you DO have to be curious about the world around you.  Here’s a few ideas: 

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.  

• 2025: Depart October through December from $6900
• 2026:  January through June from $7264
• See our video blog from this trip:  https://youtu.be/3F38Km2EEjQ 

REMOTE ALASKA from 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 to Seward (for Anchorage)
• Sail on the world’s first hybrid-electric cruise ship.  See our ship tour video here: https://youtu.be/1L_ByDqhGR0 
• Departures May through July 2026 from $4554

NORTHERN LIGHTS in NORWAY with HX

• Round-trip from Tromso, for 7-nights with 5 stops on Norwegian Coast
• Northern lights PROMISE.  If you DON’T see the Aurora Borealis on this journey HX will put you on another cruise.  
• Departures November through March from $4761

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER Luxury Rail Journey

On both the Canadian and US Rocky Mountaineer itineraries, you’ll get to see world-class scenery and wildlife spotting, all while enjoying great food and wine. 

Vancouver to Banff for 5-nights

• Spend 2-nights in Vancouver, then board the train to Kamloops, and then follow on to 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.

CANYON SPIRIT: Denver to Las Vegas for 6-nights

• Denver (2), Glenwood Springs, Moab (2), Bryce Canyon, Las Vegas
• Prices range between $5215 and $6270 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

Many of you like the IDEA of a WORLD CRUISE, but are unsure as to whether you want to be on a ship for several months.  OR — perhaps there’s whole sections of the world you would choose to bypass, either because you’ve been there previously, OR you don’t have an interest.  

A world cruise is typically defined as any voyage over 100 days, and visits more than two continents.  They often leave in January, and sail westward.  The upside is obvious – you unpack once, and all your logistics are taken care of.  The downside: if there are sections of the itinerary (or a lot sea days) that don’t appeal to you, you can’t skip that part of the trip.

If you’re looking for an extended trip abroad that is more tailored to your specific interests, you might want to consider a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) world cruise.  

The UPSIDE: an extended trip that’s more tailored to your unique interests.  

The TRADE-OFF:  you’ll have to pack and unpack more than once, and there will be planes, trains, and automobile logistics.  Luckily those are fairly easily managed.

Here’s ONE example of an extended trip around the world.  Because this example uses more than one cruise line, AND flights between certain places, you could easily bolt together the sections of this trip that hold the most interest:

• LEG 1: Vancouver to Japan via Alaska on Viking Ocean for 23-nights
• LEG 2: Japan Land Cruise with Collette for 11-nights
• FLY to Hanoi, Vietnam
• LEG 3: Mekong River Cruise with Uniworld for 14-nights
• FLY to Sydney, Australia (could also stop over in Singapore or Bali)
• LEG 4: Tauck Land-Cruise of Australia and New Zealand for 23-nights
• FLY to India
• LEG 5: Viking River’s brand new India river cruise for 14-nights
• FLY to Dubai: Spend a few days to break up the long flight
• FLY to Capetown, South Africa
• LEG 6:  Chobe river cruise and safari with AMA Waterways.  Visit South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Tanzania for 14-nights.
• LEG 7:  Capetown to Lisbon via West Africa with Regent for 24 nights.
• LEG 8:  Portugal/Spain Douro River Cruise with Tauck River for 12-nights
• LEG 9:  Lisbon to Istanbul with Explora Journeys for 29-nights on the Mediterranean.
• FLY to Bucharest (Romania).  Spend a couple of days in the “Paris of Eastern Europe”
• LEG 10: River Cruise across the entirety of Europe from Bucharest to Amsterdam with Uniworld for 22-nights
• TRAIN to London.  Spend a few days in Southern England.
• LEG 11:  Baltic Cruise to Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Sweden and Norway for 14-nights with Oceania, finishing in Edinburgh.
• LEG 12: Edinburgh to Reykjavik, Iceland via Scotland and Ireland with National Geographic.
• LEG 13: Reykjavik to Newfoundland via Greenland and Labrador for 17-nights with HX
• FLY to Fort Lauderdale
• LEG 14: Florida to Santiago, Chile via Panama, Ecuador and Peru for 17-nights with Viking.
• LEG 15: Santiago to Buenos Aires via Patagonia and Antarctica for 18-nights with Seabourn.
• FLY to Medellin, Columbia
• LEG 16:  Colombia’s Magdelena River with AMA Waterways for 7-nights, with 3-nights pre-cruise with AMA in Medellin, and 3-nights post-cruise in Panama.
• LEG 17:  Panama City to Fort Lauderdale for 10-nights with Viking Ocean.
• FLY (or drive) home from Miami

This is just one (ridiculous) example, and it assumes unlimited time and money.  Start with parts of the world that interest you MOST, and then see if you can string them together in some order that will serve you.  There WILL be trade-offs, and if it all seems like too much work, we’ll put you on a world cruise. 

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED:

Check out our VIDEO BLOG where Kim & Bob talk about DIY World Cruises, and how to piece together a global journey.  https://youtu.be/K7Gz_uIcxSY 

In Case You Missed It:

NEW ZEALAND & AUSTRALIA:  It’s very popular “down-under”, so here are some different ideas for exploring this fascinating region

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

THE BABY BOOMERS:  The experts tell us we need to focus on younger people.  Here’s why we’re sticking with the BOOMERS.

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

TAUCK on the RIVER:  Tauck is best known as a land-tour company, but their expertise extends to the rivers as well.  https://pamperedcruiser.com/what-about-tauck/

Featured YOUTUBE Post:

CAPPADOCIA – Where?!?  If you’ve ever seen dozens of hot air balloons drifting effortlessly over the desert, it was probably Cappadocia.  If you find yourself starting or finishing a cruise in Istanbul, this isn’t to be missed:  https://youtu.be/m6L12POlFqU 

Have something to say about this?

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

Maybe a long Do-It-Yourself World Cruise isn’t your jam.  Here’s some other ideas

RIVER CRUISES – AMA

We’re holding space on SPECIFIC VOYAGES that have some special pricing:

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

• Visit Amsterdam (overnight), Dusseldorf, Rhine Gorge, Rudesheim, Ludwigshafen, Strasbourg, Breisach, Basel 
• Fares from $3898 (less 5% on Category D rooms only).

PORTUGAL & SPAIN departing May 5 for one-week

• The Douro River is incredibly popular, and space for this year is difficult to find.
• 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 $5298 (less 5% on Category D rooms only)

Paris & Normandy round-trip Paris departing September 17, 2026 for one-week

• Visit Les Andelys, Le Havre, Honfleur, Normandy Landing Beaches, Caudebec-en-Caux, Rouen, Vernon, Paris (overnight). 
• Optional 2-night Paris Extention
• Fares start at $5448, and we can get you 5% off any available cabin

REGENT SEVEN SEAS

Regent is the fully inclusive small-ship cruise line, and we have some EXTRA GOODIES we can offer on these REGENT SEVEN SEAS departures if you are willing to travel in the next several months.  Contact us for more details:

Miami round-trip departing December 10 for 10-nights

• Visit Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Belize, Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel
• Fares from $3900*

Miami to Honolulu departing January 11 for 21-nights

• Visit Cartagena, full daylight transit of Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, Hilo, Kahului, Honolulu (overnight). 
• Fares from $14,727*

Buenos Aires to Santiago departing January 14 for 18-nights

• Visit Uruguay, Falkland Islands, Antarctica (scenic cruising), Ushuaia, Punta Arenas, Chilean Fjords, 4 port stops in Chile.
• Fares from $11,920*

Vancouver to Anchorage departing May 20 for 7-nights

• Visit Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier
• Fares from $6399*

Athens to Venice departing June 2 for 14-nights

• Visit Volos, Thessaloniki, Istanbul (overnight), Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Olympia, Kotor, Split (Croatia), and Trieste. 
• Fares from $11,399*

London round-trip departing June 6 for 10-nights

• Visit St. Malo, La Rochelle, Bordeaux (overnight), Biarritz, Bilbao, La Coruna
• Fares from $10,399*

*Regent Fares include unlimited shore excursions, specialty dining, open bar, wifi and gratuities.  LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT? Other itineraries are available with extra amenities… please inquire. 

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS with ATLAS

This company has 3 yachts (launched in 2021, 2022, 2023), all holding 196 guests.  November through March,  these ships are all in Antarctica, but the rest of the year, they are doing “Cultural Expeditions” and “Culinary Expeditions”.  

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.  

ANTARCTICA round-trip from Buenos Aires departing December 18, 2025 for 9-nights

• Includes charter flight to Ushuaia and 4-days of scheduled landings on the continent.
• Fares from $9944

GREENLAND & NEWFOUNDLAND departing September 21, 2026 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 $13,369

LAND CRUISES with INTREPID Premium

COSTA RICA:  round-trip San Jose for 9-days

• Costa Rica is both exotic, but nearby (under 4 hours from Houston, Atlanta, or Miami). 
• See a turtle sanctuary, enjoy coffee where it is harvested, slide into the hot springs at Arenal Volcano, see the abundant wildlife in the rainforest, and take a surfing lesson in Tamarindo (or maybe just watch it!).
• Departures year-round from $3362

MOROCCO:  Casablanca to Marrakech for 15-days

• If you’re in Southern Europe, then this North African country is close by, and in many ways is more comparable to travelling in Europe, than Africa. 
• Visit the Museum of Judaism, and Mosque of Hassan II in Casablanca.  Walk the Medinas and Souks in Meknes, get a home-cooked dinner in Fes, visit the desert oasis town of Erfoud, go for a camel ride during your stay at a Sahara Desert Camp, stop in at Ait Benhaddou (where Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones, and many other movies have been filmed), stay overnight in a village in the High Atlas Mountains, and finish in Marrakech, where you’ll experience the crossroads of cultures that makes up the place. 
• Weekly departures year-round from $4014

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

JAPAN: You’ve been asking about Japan a lot lately, so here’s a few tidbits to help plan your trip:

Why is it so popular right now?

• It was closed longer for the pandemic, so the demand is still equalizing.
• It’s safe and easy to travel:  All the secondary signage is in English, and it regularly scores in the Top 10 globally for public safety. 
• It’s naturally beautiful – Mt. Fuji, the blossoms, the gardens and hot springs.

Ways to travel Japan:

• CRUISE:  As a group of islands, Japan lends itself well to cruise vacations.  The most common ones are 12 – 14 days that circumnavigate the Japanese islands with one or two stops in South Korea.
• REPOSITIONING CRUISE:  These cruises start or finish in Japan, and include port stops in China/Taiwan, or Southeast Asia (Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore).  Some cruises carry on through Malaysia and Indonesia to Australia.  It’s a great way to see parts of the world otherwise more difficult to get to.
• JAPAN & ALASKA:  This is also a repositioning cruise that has become more popular.  These cruises are usually 20 – 24 days, and save you the long flight one way.
• LAND CRUISE:  The options for packaged land tours to Japan are endless, and they almost all include getting around by train (or “shinkansen” – the bullet train).  Ultimately, doing a back to back circumnavigation of Japan by ship, and coupling it with a packaged land tour, will give you a comprehensive visit to this fascinating country. 

Logistics of Visiting Japan

• AIR:  It’s a long flight: 11.5 hours from LA, or 10 hours from Vancouver.
• TOKYO:  Most people fly to Tokyo’s Narita Airport.  Check out Haneda – there’s not as many flights there, but it is often more convenient.
• CLIMATE: It’s seasonal, and the northern and southern extremes have different climates.

When to Visit Japan

Japan is a four-season destination.  Tokyo is on the same parallel as central California, and the weather is moderate year-round. 

• WINTER: Visit the hot springs, OR go skiing / snowshoeing on Mt. Fuji.
• SPRING: Cherry Blossom season is March through May.  This is peak season in Japan with crowds and prices set accordingly. 
• SUMMER:  There are Festivals and public events continuously during summer in Japan. 
• FALL:  If you want to take in the Autumn leaves, and have already been to Canada/New England, this may be your next destination. 

Things to See and Do in Japan:

• TOKYO: By some measures, this is the largest city in the world, and you can marvel at how orderly and safe such a large city can be.
• HIROSHIMA: the peace memorial and museum here are moving and poignant.
• KYOTO: for temples and shrines.  Check out the Golden Pavillion.
• HAKONE: to take in the vistas of Mt. Fuji or dip into the hot springs. 
• OKINAWA:  for beaches and snorkelling.
• CULTURAL:  do a tea ceremony, take a cooking class, or go to a Sumo demonstration.

Dream-Travel-Share UNPACKED:

Check out our VIDEO BLOG where Kim & Bob talk about how to travel Japan, and the different types of cruises there. https://youtu.be/tNOmAsGSZCc 

In Case You Missed It:

REMAINING MOM & POP.  The luxury-leisure travel industry has doubled in size since 2019.  We love the growth, but we also want to maintain a small-business “mom & pop” feel: 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/remaining-mom-pop/

CRYSTAL CRUISES:  We travelled with Crystal last month for the first time since the brand’s resurrection.  Here’s what you can expect on board: 

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

SHORE EXCURSIONS:  Many of the cruise lines are STILL struggling to deliver quality shore excursions.  This is a result of many skilled tour guides leaving the industry during the pandemic, but here’s some ideas of what you can do to minimize your risk: 

https://pamperedcruiser.com/shore-excursion-survival-guide/

FEATURED YouTube Post:

VANCOUVER City Guide:  Just about everyone on an Alaskan Cruise does Vancouver pre/post.  Here’s a quick look at how to make the most of your time there:

https://youtu.be/Dtn_1BR_z3k

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Today’s Travel Opportunities

CRYSTAL CRUISES to JAPAN

Tokyo round-trip departing April 5 for 13-nights

• Visit Shimizu, Kobe (overnight), Okinawa, Ishigaki Islands, Taiwan, Kagoshima, Kochi, Tokyo (overnight). 
• Fares from $6940

Tokyo round-trip departing May 9 for 11-nights

• Visit Shimizu, Osaka (overnight), Okinawa, Jeju, Nagasaki, Kagoshima, Tokyo
• Fares from $6530

Ultimate Japan: Toyko round-trip departing May 20 for 23-nights

• Visit Hakodate, Aomori, Sakata, Niigata, Kanazawa, Maizuru, Sakaiminato, Busan, Seoul, Jeju, Nagasaki, Miyako-jima, Okinawa, Aburatsu, Hiroshima, Kobe (overnight).
• From $10,530

JULY BONUS:  Any Crystal reservations made this month through our agency qualify for an additional on board credit!  See the details here: https://pamperedcruiser.com/crystal-whats-new-whats-cherished/

JAPAN & ALASKA with VIKING: Tokyo to Vancouver (or reverse) for 23-days

• Visit Tokyo (overnight), Tsugaro Strait, Sapporo (overnight), Bering Sea/Gulf of Alaska, Kodiak, Homer, Seward, Valdez, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka, Ketchikan, Vancouver. 
• 2025: Depart September 14 from Vancouver from $5499 (with FREE AIR, pre-paid gratuities, and the Silver Spirits Beverage Package). 
• 2026: Depart May 6 or 25 from Tokyo from $6999 (with FREE AIR). 

JAPAN INTENSIVE with AZAMARA: Kobe to Tokyo departing March 13 for 14-nights

• Visit Kobe, Kochi, Hiroshima, Kitakyashu, Nagasaki, Busan, Sakaiminato, Kanazawa, Niigata, Akita, Aomori, Tokyo
• Fares from $5079 (March 13), $6199 (March 27), $5510 (April 10), $6169 (April 24)

JAPAN LAND CRUISES

A land-cruise combined with an ocean cruise of Japan gives you a comprehensive experience:

COLLETTE:  Tokyo to Kyoto for 11-nights

• Visit Tokyo (3-nights), Hakone, Takayama (2-nights), Kanazawa (2-nights), Kyoto (3-nights)
• 2025: Sold out
• 2026:  January through December from $4999

TAUCK: Tokyo round-trip for 13-days

• Visit Tokyo (3-nights), and then travel by train to Lake Ashi/Mt Fuji, Hakone (2-nights), Nagoya, Gero Onsen, Takayama, Kanazawa (2-nights), Kyoto (4-nights), Hiroshima.
• 2026: Departures February through November from $11,990.

TAKE THE KIDS/GRANDKIDS: There is also a 10-day version June through August from $9590

REMOTE EXPLORATIONS

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC from Osaka to Kyoto departing September 7 or 19, 2026 for 16-days

• Visit Osaka (overnight), Naoshima, Okayama, Kurashiki, Takamatsu, Miyajima, Hiroshima, Uwajima/Uchiko, Yakushima Island, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Ulsan, Matsue, Moji, Mitarai, Kyoto. 
• Fares from $30,048

RIVER CRUISES with TAUCK

There aren’t river cruises in Japan, so if Japan ISN’T on your radar, here are a few options for Europe: 

EASTERN EUROPE: from BUDAPEST to BUCHAREST for 13-days

• Visit Budapest for 2 nights, then travel to Mohacs, Pecs, Vukovar, Novi Sad, Belgrade (with a private Palace evening at Royal White Palace of Serbian royal Family), Iron Gates scenic cruising, Ruse (also known as little Vienna), Constanta & Mamaia, then disembark to visit Bucharest and Transylvania.  
• 2026:  Departures April through October from $7490

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!
• 2025: Sold Out
• 2026: Depart September 16 or 23 from $8490

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. 
• 2025:  Limited availability on October 10 or November 14 from $5890 
• 2026:  Departures April through October from $5790

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