Andrew King Your Travel Consultant Feed

Spain Must-Visit Cities

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:06 +0000

Barcelona – Beaches + architecture by Antoni Gaudí (don’t miss Sagrada Família)
Madrid – Art museums like Prado Museum and lively plazas
Seville – Flamenco, historic charm, and stunning architecture
Valencia – Birthplace of paella + modern architecture
Granada – Home of Alhambra

13-Day Highlights of Spain - Tour 2A - Sun Princess

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:06 +0000

Madrid, Spain to Civitavecchia (for Rome), Italy

6 land nights - 6 ports

Sun Princess®

Sun Princess is the most impressive, luxurious and stunning Love Boat ever created and introduces an innovative ship platform designed exclusively for the world’s most iconic cruise brand. The Dome, the outward and suspended sphere, takes the central Piazza hub of the ship into a new dimension. Guests are enveloped with expansive ocean views and an open concept, inspired to deliver the desired lifestyle of relaxed indoor and outdoor living.

Princess Standard fare includes

MedallionClass® experience: Enjoy effortless, personalized cruising: your stateroom unlocking as you approach, next-level service, easily finding family & friends while on board and so much more.
Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, themed activities, game shows and performers
Dining: Multicourse dining, buffet, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, soft-serve ice cream, pastries and desserts
Fitness facilities: Youth & teen clubs for ages 3-17

Optional add-ons

Purchase individually, or upgrade to a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package that includes the most popular options at a value.
Beer, wine, cocktails, specialty coffees, sodas & juice bar
Wi-Fi
Dine at award-winning specialty restaurants
Shore excursions
Spa services and The Sanctuary
Laundry services
Celebrations, romance and wedding packages

130th Anniversary Summer Sale - HX Expeditions

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:06 +0000

Save up to 25% on select HX departures¹

Applicable sailings from May 15, 2026, to March 31, 2028

Free Suite Upgrade²

2026/27 season: Antarctica only
2027/28 season: Antarctica, Svalbard, Greenland, Northwest Passage, Arctic Canada, Alaska, Iceland, South America

From May 1 – Aug 31, 2026

Change the way you see the world

Getting Around in Spain

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:06 +0000

Spain has excellent high-speed trains (AVE) connecting cities like Madrid and Barcelona
Public transport is efficient in major cities
Renting a car is best for rural areas or coastal drives

Spain

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Spain is a diverse European nation known for its rich history, vibrant culture, world-class culinary experiences and sunny Mediterranean climate. Located in southwestern Europe, Spain occupies about 85% of the Iberian Peninsula and is home to 47 UNESCO World Heritage sites. A vast landscape filled with stone castles, snowcapped mountains and sophisticated cities its geography is as diverse as its culture.

Travellers looking for in-depth cultural experiences will find many vibrant festivals, museums and iconic experiences in Spain. History buffs will enjoy visiting any one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites, Roman ruins in Mérida, Moorish palaces in Andalusia, Gothic cathedrals and 20th-century Civil War sites. For a once in a lifetime experience visit in August 2026 to view a full solar eclipse! Explore our featured trips with trusted suppliers and book your trip today!

7-Day Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse - Sun Princess

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

MedallionClass® experience: Enjoy effortless, personalized cruising: your stateroom unlocking as you approach, next-level service, easily finding family & friends while on board and so much more.
Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, themed activities, game shows and performers
Dining: Multicourse dining, buffet, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, soft-serve ice cream, pastries and desserts
Fitness facilities: Youth & teen clubs for ages 3-17

Optional add-ons

Purchase individually, or upgrade to a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package that includes the most popular options at a value.
Beer, wine, cocktails, specialty coffees, sodas & juice bar
Wi-Fi
Dine at award-winning specialty restaurants
Shore excursions
Spa services and The Sanctuary
Laundry services
Celebrations, romance and wedding packages

7-Day Western Mediterranean with Italy - Sun Princess

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

MedallionClass® experience: Enjoy effortless, personalized cruising: your stateroom unlocking as you approach, next-level service, easily finding family & friends while on board and so much more.
Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, themed activities, game shows and performers
Dining: Multicourse dining, buffet, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, soft-serve ice cream, pastries and desserts
Fitness facilities: Youth & teen clubs for ages 3-17

Optional add-ons

Purchase individually, or upgrade to a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package that includes the most popular options at a value.
Beer, wine, cocktails, specialty coffees, sodas & juice bar
Wi-Fi
Dine at award-winning specialty restaurants
Shore excursions
Spa services and The Sanctuary
Laundry services
Celebrations, romance and wedding packages

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day - Allure of the Seas - Dec 2026

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Spend 7 nights of adventure during your cruise on Allure of the Seas. It all begins when you sail from Miami, Florida, to the Royal Caribbean award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Max out memories during your unforgettable vacation.

Join Our Group

4D Ocean View Balcony
Our Price: $1,237
Standard Price: ~~$3,092~~
Taxes+Fees: $228
Pricing per person based on double occupancy

27-Day Highlights of Spain - Tour 2C - Sun Princess

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Madrid, Spain to Barcelona, Spain

6 land nights - 15 ports

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

MedallionClass® experience: Enjoy effortless, personalized cruising: your stateroom unlocking as you approach, next-level service, easily finding family & friends while on board and so much more.
Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, themed activities, game shows and performers
Dining: Multicourse dining, buffet, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, soft-serve ice cream, pastries and desserts
Fitness facilities: Youth & teen clubs for ages 3-17

Optional add-ons

Purchase individually, or upgrade to a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package that includes the most popular options at a value.
Beer, wine, cocktails, specialty coffees, sodas & juice bar
Wi-Fi
Dine at award-winning specialty restaurants
Shore excursions
Spa services and The Sanctuary
Laundry services
Celebrations, romance and wedding packages

Best Time to Visit Spain

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Best overall: Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–October)
Summer: Great for beaches like Costa del Sol, but very hot inland (especially Seville)
Winter: Mild in the south, colder in cities like Madrid

How to pay in Spain

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Currency: Euro (€)
Cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small shops or cafés
Tipping is modest—round up or leave small change

21-Day The Best of the Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse - Sun Princess

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

MedallionClass® experience: Enjoy effortless, personalized cruising: your stateroom unlocking as you approach, next-level service, easily finding family & friends while on board and so much more.
Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, themed activities, game shows and performers
Dining: Multicourse dining, buffet, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, soft-serve ice cream, pastries and desserts
Fitness facilities: Youth & teen clubs for ages 3-17

Optional add-ons

Purchase individually, or upgrade to a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package that includes the most popular options at a value.
Beer, wine, cocktails, specialty coffees, sodas & juice bar
Wi-Fi
Dine at award-winning specialty restaurants
Shore excursions
Spa services and The Sanctuary
Laundry services
Celebrations, romance and wedding packages

Portugal, Spain & The Douro River Valley - Uniworld

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Following the Douro River through Portugal and into Spain, you’ll cruise past steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages and acres of ripe vineyards. Enjoy private tastings of Port and explore Porto’s historic Ribeira district, home to iconic rabelo boats, cutting-edge cuisine and a thriving art scene. Wind your way through the dramatic landscapes of the UNESCO-designated Douro Valley, heading ashore to visit charming quintas and meet the winemakers who operate them. See the famous university of Salamanca, Spain, and visit the mountaintop village of Castelo Rodrigo.

Your journey ends in Lisbon, the city that launched some of the world’s most renowned explorers. There’s no better way to discover Europe’s best-kept secret than this scenic and all-inclusive river cruise!

Spain Food & Dining Tips

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Try classics: tapas, paella, jamón ibérico, churros
Lunch is the main meal (2–4 PM); dinner is late (9–11 PM)
In cities like Barcelona, some tapas may cost extra—always check
Look for “Menú del Día” for affordable multi-course meals

Cruise & Tour: Discover Portugal & Spain - Uniworld

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

From the awe-inspiring collections of Madrid’s Prado Museum to the beautiful National Palace of Queluz in Portugal, your land tour of Iberia will leave its mark. Savor the region’s culinary delights with curated experiences, from Michelin-starred dining and market tastings to a hands-on cooking class, blending tradition with modern flair. In Granada, explore the Alhambra Palace's water gardens with a local expert. Wander through Seville’s whitewashed alleys, then enjoy a private flamenco performance in an 18th-century mansion. When your journey by land concludes, it’s time to board your cruise of the Douro River Valley. Sail past the steeply terraced hillsides, quaint villages, and acres of ripe vineyards that make up the UNESCO-designated landscape, heading ashore to visit charming quintas and meet the winemakers who operate them.

20-Day Highlights of Spain - Tour 2B - Sun Princess

Fri, 01 May 26 15:41:05 +0000

Madrid, Spain to Athens (Piraeus), Greece

6 land nights - 11 ports

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

MedallionClass® experience: Enjoy effortless, personalized cruising: your stateroom unlocking as you approach, next-level service, easily finding family & friends while on board and so much more.
Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, movies, themed activities, game shows and performers
Dining: Multicourse dining, buffet, pizza, burgers, hot dogs, soft-serve ice cream, pastries and desserts
Fitness facilities: Youth & teen clubs for ages 3-17

Optional add-ons

Purchase individually, or upgrade to a Princess Plus or Princess Premier package that includes the most popular options at a value.
Beer, wine, cocktails, specialty coffees, sodas & juice bar
Wi-Fi
Dine at award-winning specialty restaurants
Shore excursions
Spa services and The Sanctuary
Laundry services
Celebrations, romance and wedding packages

5 Spectacular Annual Flower Shows Worth Planning a Trip Around

Mon, 13 Apr 26 16:07:54 +0000

It’s spring at last, and our thoughts turn to the outdoors and our gardens. What better inspiration for a trip than some of the most breathtaking flower shows on earth - that take nature’s horticultural gifts and maximalize the colors, the spectacle and the drama!

1. Keukenhof Gardens — Netherlands

Keukenhof’s claim to fame is scale and control. More than seven million bulbs are planted by hand each year in layered sequences—early, mid, and late bloomers—so the park continuously evolves across its eight-week season each March and April.

WATCH VIDEO ABOVE: Our Tulip Time River Cruise on the Emerald Sky in the Netherlands

It’s also known for its indoor pavilions, where Dutch growers stage rotating displays of orchids, lilies, and cut flowers at exhibition quality—essentially a showcase of the country’s global flower industry. Add the classic windmill overlooking surrounding tulip fields, and you get both the postcard and the production line behind it.

Why go: The world’s largest spring flower garden, paired with a living showroom of Dutch floriculture.

2. Chelsea Flower Show — London, UK

The Royal Horticultural Society Chelsea Flower Show is a highlight of Britain’s royal, society, and gardening calendar. Only 5 days long, usually in the third week of May, it draws the who’s who of the Royal Family, celebrities, and flower lovers from around the world.

Defined by its Show Gardens—full-scale, meticulously judged landscapes installed from scratch and dismantled days later, the Chelsea Flower Show is horticultural theater – and big business. Winning “Best in Show” can launch a designer globally. Inside the Great Pavilion, growers compete for medals with near-perfect specimens, and the “Plant of the Year” regularly introduces varieties that go on to dominate garden centres worldwide.

Simultaneously, Chelsea in Bloom transforms the streets of London’s Chelsea—especially Sloane Square and King’s Road—into a free, whimsical open-air floral art trail created by local boutiques, hotels, and restaurants.

Why go: To see the exact gardens, plants, and ideas that will shape how the world gardens next.

3. Floriade Canberra — Canberra, Australia

Spring Down Under is in September and October, and that’s when Aussie gardens shine. Floriade is known for its mass plantings arranged in bold, almost graphic patterns—entire beds of tulips and annuals laid out like landscape-scale design pieces around Lake Burley Griffin.

Each year follows a theme, and the planting schemes are executed with striking precision, more akin to outdoor installation art than traditional bedding displays. Its signature NightFest adds a second layer, with light projections and illuminated sculptures transforming the gardens after dark.

Why go: Monumental tulip displays by day—and a fully reimagined, light-driven experience at night.

4. Chiang Mai Flower Festival — Chiang Mai, Thailand

This northern Thailand festival, held for three short days in early February, is best known for its elaborate flower-float parade, where entire scenes—temples, animals, mythological figures—are constructed from orchids, marigolds, and chrysanthemums.

Chiang Mai is also a centre of orchid cultivation, and the displays highlight rare varieties alongside fields of locally grown damask roses used in regional perfumes and oils. Much of the action centres on Suan Buak Haad Park, where competitive displays and precision planting showcase the region’s horticultural expertise.

Why go: Intricately constructed floral floats and a rare window into Thailand’s orchid and rose-growing traditions.

5. Genzano Infiorata — Genzano, Italy

Genzano’s Infiorata, held over a weekend in mid-June, is defined by precision petal mosaics. Artists use thousands of hand-placed petals—sorted by colour and texture—to create highly detailed images that resemble paintings more than floral displays. The carpets run down a steep street in the historic centre, creating a dramatic, gallery-like perspective.

By Sunday afternoon, a traditional procession deliberately walks across the designs, dismantling them in minutes and highlighting the ephemeral nature of flowers and the natural world.

Why go: Hyper-detailed floral “paintings” you can walk through—before they’re intentionally erased.

START YOUR TRIP!

Video and Story: Lynn Elmhirst, Cruise/ Travel Journalist and Expert

Images: Getty

Two New Ships, Two Ways to Cruise: There Really is a Cruise Out There for Everyone

Mon, 13 Apr 26 16:07:54 +0000

Two very different new ships—one an intimate, design-forward superyacht, the other a high-energy floating resort—are sending a strong message. Whether you’re a cruise lover or a cruise newbie, there’s a cruise style and ship that’s perfect for you.

The recent, back-to-back debut of Emerald Cruises’ newest intimate, modern yacht and Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest Caribbean mega-ship shows just how wide that spectrum has become—and why first-time cruisers, in particular, have never had more options to ‘dip your toes’ into cruising waters.

Emerald Kaia and the Rise of Yacht-Style Cruising

At one end, yacht-style cruising is booming! Fewer guests, more space, and a strong connection to the destination. The new Emerald Kaia is home to just 128 guests, a scale that feels closer to a private club than a cruise ship.

What that size delivers is not just intimacy, but a different rhythm of travel in the warm-water destinations she’s designed to sail. Days unfold at a slower, more immersive pace.

Whether you sail the Emerald Kaia on the Adriatic coast between Venice and Dubrovnik or island-hopping through the Seychelles, the ship’s design leans into that philosophy: expansive outdoor decks, seamless indoor-outdoor living, and suites filled with natural light.

The latest Emerald Cruises yacht includes a reimagined observation deck, larger suites, and more flexible interconnecting accommodations for groups. The onboard experience leans further into immersive, contemporary luxury: more varied dining venues, stronger indoor-outdoor flow, and a purpose-built wellness deck that integrates spa, fitness, and relaxation into a single, cohesive experience that opens onto the sea.

Relaxing at Sea: Dining and Design Re-imagined aboard Emerald Kaia

It’s easy yachting luxury rather than traditional cruising formality. Dining is designed to feel interactive and varied—an open kitchen concept that brings guests closer to the culinary process, relaxed Mediterranean-style poolside dining, and small-scale, highly curated private dining inspired by regional cuisines.

Wellness, too, is no longer a side offering but a central pillar. The dedicated wellness deck integrates spa treatments, salt therapy, cold plunges, and fitness spaces in a way that feels holistic.

Even the accommodations reflect changing travel habits. The introduction of interconnecting suites speaks to a growing segment of travelers who want to share experiences—families or groups of friends—without sacrificing privacy.

Norwegian Luna, A Ship That’s Its Own Destination

At the other end of the spectrum: a ship designed to deliver around-the-clock variety, energy, and choice on a much larger scale.

The new Norwegian Luna brings more than 3,500 guests together in a floating playground of options. But unlike older-generation mega-ships that could feel overwhelming, the modern approach is about letting guests shape their own experience—whether that means adrenaline, entertainment, or quiet escape.

With Norwegian Luna, what’s new isn’t just the hardware—it’s the way a large ship is organized around choice and personalization. The ship introduces next-level attractions like a hybrid rollercoaster-style waterslide, immersive game zones, and outdoor activity spaces designed for all ages, alongside more segmented experiences that let different travelers coexist without overlap.

There’s a clear evolution toward multi-generational travel, with purpose-built zones for families, teens, and adults—including elevated “ship-within-a-ship” suites in the Haven for those seeking privacy. Add in a broader range of dining and entertainment, and the innovation here is about flexibility: a large ship that doesn’t feel one-size-fits-all, but instead lets guests design their own version of the cruise experience.

The Ultimate Vehicle for Multi-generational Travel

For active travelers and families, the appeal is immediate. Attractions blur the line between cruise ship and theme park, while expansive outdoor spaces offer room to move and play.

Alongside the high-energy attractions are adult-only entertainment venues, private retreat areas, and a “ship-within-a-ship” suite complex that offers a more exclusive, insulated experience for those who want it.

Dining follows the same logic of abundance and choice, with a wide range of global cuisines and multiple venues that allow guests to curate their own culinary journey rather than follow a fixed schedule.

Beyond the Ship: The Rise of Curated Destinations

And then there’s the destination. The Norwegian Luna is focused on Caribbean itineraries out of Miami and New York, anchored by private island experiences—Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize, Norwegian’s private beach resort. Complete with beach clubs, waterparks, and curated shore amenities, these exclusive spaces are designed to extend the Luna’s lifestyle ashore.

The Big Takeaway: A Cruise Style for Every Traveler

So what ties these two very different ships together? Choice.

Options for experienced cruise travelers to try something new – and a way for new-to-cruise travelers to find the voyage that’s exactly right for you.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Emerald Cruises/ Scenic Group and Norwegian Cruise Line

Kensington Tours, Ancestry.com’s Private Personal Heritage Journeys Connect Travelers to their Roots

Mon, 13 Apr 26 16:07:54 +0000

Searching for your family heritage in the lands where your ancestors came from?

Kensington Tours launched Personal Heritage Journeys in partnership with Ancestry.com in 2021 as a way to provide the most personal, in-depth, and privately guided exploration of a traveler’s family roots built on DNA insights and professional genealogical research.

Each experience pairs one of Kensington's local Destination Experts with a genealogist from AncestryProGenealogists to uncover detailed family history and guide you and your family to the towns, regions, and historical sites directly connected to your ancestry. It may be the best multi-generational family trip ever.

By integrating the Ancestry genealogist's comprehensive analysis of each distinct family history, the Destination Expert designs a custom itinerary centered around the most significant sites and events from that history. The trip is designed with the traveler's objectives as the foremost consideration and is led exclusively by local private guides who are specialists in the area's history and culture. Moreover, for an enhanced and more insightful journey, an on-site Genealogist can also join the trip, providing a deeper understanding and a more meaningful and engaging experience.

WHERE CAN KENSINGTON TOURS' ANCESTRY TRAVEL TAKE US?

While each trip is customized, the itineraries Kensington Tours has developed have a general and cultural appeal, combined with more historical elements, and are tied together by a story of emigration. Any or all of these locales and experiences can be customized, as can the hotels, length of stay in each locale, and types of touring. You can add an on-site genealogist to any of the days and include any sites or locales that are relevant to anyone’s family story.

Kensington Tours has continued to expand the locations, with several thought-starter itineraries to places from Ireland, Germany, Italy, Poland, Japan, Ghana, and New York, but you can get us to help you curate a trip to just about anywhere.

ASK US TO HELP YOU DESIGN THE FAMILY HERITAGE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

Northern Italy Heritage Journey – 11 days
- Florence, Rome, Benevello, Verbania
Tracing Irish Ancestry: A Heritage Journey – 10 days
- Dublin, Cork, Killarney, Newmarket on Fergus
Door of No Return Ancestral Journey to Ghana – 11 days from USD 13, 750
- Accra, Elmina, Kumasi
New York City: Immigration & Heritage – 6 days from USD 11,634
Heritage Journey: American Airfields in England – 9 days
- London, Cambridge, Canterbury, journeying through England’s WWII history

*** Image: Getty

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full itinerary, date, and pricing details.

Ancestry Travel Tips

Mon, 13 Apr 26 16:07:54 +0000

Do you travel for the food? Festivals? Or maybe family? Over a quarter of travelers these days are interested in heritage or ancestry-based trips. The surge in DNA testing has been accompanied by a corresponding rise in the popularity of genealogy-focused trips.

People are putting their traveling ‘genes’ on. And not going sightseeing, but searching for their roots. Motivations vary from family heritage to the story of migration from their ancestral homes.

Do any of these ideas strike a chord in you and beckon you to your ancestors’ distant shores?

Learning: discovering your original identity
Connection: walking where your ancestors lived and left
Closure: if your family didn’t choose their displacement or migration
Curiosity: sparked by DNA surprises or family lore
Legacy: sharing “where we come from” with the next generation

Ancestry Travel Hotspots

Do these destinations call you home? Here are some of the more popular destinations for North Americans to trace their roots.

Ireland and Scotland, the emotional epicenter for those with Celtic roots
Italy (especially Sicily and southern regions) draws diaspora descendants in droves
Germany and Eastern Europe are seeing new interest as archives become more accessible
Nordic countries like Sweden and Norway are booming with ancestral travelers, thanks to strong genealogical records
West Africa — particularly Ghana — has become a powerful destination for many with African heritage, due to its connection to the transatlantic slave trade

How to do Ancestry Travel?

Family heritage travel is genealogy, part emotional archaeology. But how much information do you need to ‘start digging?’

Some travelers arrive armed with binders of family trees and DNA results. Others simply know that “Grandpa was from somewhere near Kraków.”

Ancestry travel gives all the questions new meaning: Who? Where? When? Why? How?

Here are tips to get the most from ancestry travel:

Do the Homework (But be Realistic)

Before you book a ticket, spend time with records — immigration documents, ship manifests, census forms, church registries. Sites like FamilySearch are invaluable, and many towns will respond to polite archive requests.

But remember: villages change. Borders shift. Records disappear.

Go looking for discovery — and be open to whatever you find, or don’t find.

Bring in a Local Expert

If you’re zeroing in on a specific town, hire a local genealogist or guide. They know which municipal office holds the birth records and who still remembers the families who left.

In small places, people — not paperwork — may be your best resource.

Balance Roots With Real Travel

Don’t turn your trip into a full-time research project.

Yes, visit the ancestral village. But also experience the destination. If your roots are in southern Italy, explore Puglia. If they trace to Portugal, spend time in Porto to understand the country's rhythm. Today’s lifestyle is as valuable a lesson in your heritage as your history.

Strike up Conversations

Walk into bakeries. Visit parish offices. Ask about your surname.

Bring documents. Smile. Be curious. And friendly.

A shared name can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Manage Your Expectations

Sometimes you’ll find long-lost cousins. Sometimes you’ll find a locked archive and a shrug.

No matter what you discover, if you travel with an open mind and open heart, you’ll always come away richer than when you left.

START YOUR TRIP!

Image: Getty

River to Ocean Onboard a Single Ship: Windstar’s New Way to Cruise

Mon, 13 Apr 26 16:07:54 +0000

If you love river cruising and you love ocean cruising… then there’s a new cruise style on the horizon for you. Beginning December 2026, Windstar’s newest ship, Star Explorer, will offer new river-to-ocean cruises combining the best of both experiences.

No changing ships. Your floating boutique hotel seamlessly transitions from a river cruise to an ocean voyage, and your trip continues from an intimate river experience into equally compelling coastlines.

Purpose-built for river-to-ocean travel, the 224-guest, all-suite yacht can navigate waterways that are too small for larger ocean ships and reach coastal destinations that traditional river vessels can’t access.

Even if you’ve already sailed aboard the world’s iconic rivers, this new way of cruising offers the next frontier. Think cultural connections, the opportunity to immerse yourself in less-traveled ports, and authentic maritime exploration.

Where Does Star Explorer Sail on Her River-to-Ocean Voyages?

Star Explorer’s 2027 itineraries showcase exactly what makes this concept so appealing: sailings that bring guests into city centers by river, then continue on to coastlines, islands, and unexpected ports beyond.

Impressionist France (10 nights) – Ideal for Seine veterans ready to go further, this trip from Bordeaux to London / HMS Belfast pairs the Seine and the Thames with overnights in Bordeaux, St. Malo, and Paris/Rouen, plus access to the D-Day beaches.
Connoisseur’s Delight: Northern Spain & Portugal (8 nights) – Perfect for travelers who have sailed the Rhône and are ready to expand their wine-focused journeys, this voyage extends from France into Spain and Portugal, pairing Bordeaux’s Garonne and Gironde rivers with culinary discoveries along the Spanish coast and time in Portugal’s Douro region.
Moroccan Markets & Iberian Icons (8 nights) –Journey into Seville via the Guadalquivir, continuing on to a broader mix of Iberian and Moroccan destinations.
Ireland Circumnavigation (10 nights) – Craving wild and dramatic landscapes? This sailing includes a call at Cork City Quay on the River Lee, then continues along Ireland’s rugged coastline of cliffs and castles.

Other River-Meets-Ocean Inspired Windstar Cruises

Beyond Star Explorer, Windstar offers travelers more ways to experience small-ship cruising across Europe and beyond.
French Feast: Normandy, Brittany & Aquitaine – A natural extension for Seine cruisers, this culinary-focused itinerary blends Bordeaux and Rouen/Paris with nearby coastal regions.
British Isles Medley This sailing from Paris/Rouen to Leith includes small-ship-only ports like Swansea and Fort William.
Quick Getaways: St. Malo Getaway A natural add-on for Thames and Seine cruisers, this round-trip from London / HMS Belfast includes visits to St. Malo and Brittany.
Quick Getaways: Belgium: A Sweet Getaway River cruisers seeking a shorter escape will love this 3-day trip that combines London and Antwerp via the Scheldt, offering Belgian charm, historic streets, and culinary pleasures.
Ancient Wonders of Vietnam & Angkor Wat Ideal for Mekong cruisers interested in a new Southeast Asia option, this journey sails through Halong Bay and along the Saigon River into Ho Chi Minh City, then continues to Bangkok via the Chao Phraya River, with inland stops like Angkor Wat and Phnom Penh.

Growing Windstar Fleet

Star Explorer will be the 8^th yacht-sized ship in the Windstar fleet. Over four decades, Windstar has grown into a diverse fleet of four Star Class all-suite vessels and three Wind Class sailing yachts, accommodating 150-350 guests. In addition to the arrival of Star Explorer, Windstar’s legendary Wind Class sailing yachts are also undergoing a two-phase redesign to be completed by 2027.

START YOUR TRIP!

Image courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises Offers All-Inclusive Upgrade on Worldwide Voyages

Mon, 13 Apr 26 16:07:54 +0000

For a limited time only, get free Wi-Fi, gratuities, and beverages on global Windstar sailings through June 2027. Book by June 30, 2026, for this can’t-miss offer on a wide range of itineraries, from winter sailings in the Mediterranean to far-reaching journeys in Tahiti and Alaska.

Windstar Offer Details:

Get a value of more than USD 1,300 on a seven-day voyage for two guests with these complimentary inclusions:

Wi-Fi,
gratuities and
select unlimited cocktails, wine by the glass, and beer.

It’s a value of up to USD 1300 on a 7-day voyage for 2 guests.

Why Cruise the Windstar Way?

With yachts carrying just 148 to 342 guests, Windstar feels closer to a private yacht than a traditional cruise, with access to smaller ports, city centers, and hidden harbors that larger ships cannot reach.

That access translates into more time in port, more flexibility, and a more personalized connection to each destination. Guests might find themselves paddleboarding straight from the yacht’s Marina, joining a market visit with a local chef, or staying late in port with an evening ashore.

As the Official Cruise Line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar also brings on board food and wine experiences that reflect the destinations guests are exploring. It is a style of travel built around going beyond the crowds, beyond the guidebook, and beyond the expected.

Where Does Windstar Sail?

With voyages spanning multiple continents and a range of travel styles, the All-Inclusive offer is designed to appeal to both first-time Windstar guests and returning travelers. The promotion applies across all regions in Windstar’s global portfolio within the travel window, with a small number of exclusions including select specialty sailings such as the Grand Prix, Eclipse, and Mystery cruises.

This offer includes regions and itineraries, including:

Europe and the Mediterranean (Year-Round): Windstar continues to expand its presence in Europe, including the debut of Star Explorer launching in December 2026. Alongside peak-season sailings, winter itineraries offer a quieter, more local perspective on iconic destinations. Voyages like Europe’s Winter Riviera (with extended stays in Nice, Florence, and Barcelona) and Southern Spain Winter Escapes (which pairs Andalusian culture with food-focused experiences) invite guests to experience the region without the crowds. Across the Mediterranean, Windstar combines headline destinations with smaller ports often missed on larger ships, creating a more enjoyable way to experience one of the world’s most traveled regions. Treasure Troves of Corsica & Sardinia weaves together vineyard-covered hillsides and secluded harbors, while Treasures of Southern Spain & Morocco pairs Spanish coastal cities with time in Tangier’s medina.
South Pacific: Year-round voyages in French Polynesia highlight Windstar’s long-standing presence in Tahiti and the broader region. With its small ships, guests can go deeper on voyages like Maori Storytellers & French Polynesian Treasures (which includes the Cook Islands and extended time in Raiatea and Bora Bora) and Far Flung French Polynesia & Marquesas Magic (which reaches the remote Marquesas).
Greece: Windstar’s Greek itineraries include well-known sites and smaller ports with a more local perspective, plus time in neighboring destinations. Postcards from Northern Greece highlights lesser-visited destinations across Greece and western Turkey, while Enchanting Greece & the Amalfi Coast combines Windstar-favorite stops (Monemvasia, Gythion) with Pompeii and Taormina in Italy.
Canary Islands: Windstar’s small ships bring a different perspective to the Canary Islands, with access to smaller ports and a more relaxed pace across the archipelago. On sailings like Colorful Canary Islands, guests have time to explore each island beyond the usual stops.
Alaska: Windstar’s small ships offer closer access to glaciers, wildlife, and remote wilderness areas. Itineraries like Scenic Alaska and Alaskan Splendors bring guests face-to-face with dramatic landscapes, from glacier-carved fjords to coastal forests, with opportunities to experience local seafood and regional traditions along the way.

ASK US TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT WINDSTAR CRUISE

AND ENJOY THESE LIMITED-TIME INCLUSIONS!

More About Windstar Cruises:        

For four decades, Windstar Cruises has been reimagining small-ship cruising. From its origins with motor sailing yachts, Windstar has grown into a diverse fleet of four Star Class all-suite yachts—including its newest addition of Star Seeker in December 2025—and three Wind Class sailing yachts, offering voyages that are both intimate and inspiring. Its highly anticipated yacht, Star Explorer, is set to debut in December 2026, expanding the fleet to eight yachts accommodating 150-350 guests. Windstar’s legendary Wind Class sailing yachts are also undergoing a meticulous two-phase redesign to be completed by 2027.

Windstar yachts sail to more than 330 ports across Europe, the Caribbean, Costa Rica and the Panama Canal, Alaska, Canada and New England, Japan, the South Pacific, and Asia. Unlike most cruise lines, Windstar sails year-round in the Mediterranean and Tahiti, offering different destination experiences seasonally. Each Windstar voyage is designed to immerse guests in authentic cultural experiences, all while delivering the comfort, service, and style that define the Windstar difference. 

Windstar Cruises is proud to be part of the Xanterra Travel Collection, a distinguished group of global hospitality and travel companies with a legacy spanning over a hundred years. Xanterra operates iconic national parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, and Death Valley. The Xanterra Travel Collection is owned by The Anschutz Corporation, the ultimate owner of the Broadmoor, Sea Island, and entertainment giant AEG, Anschutz Entertainment Group. 

*** Images courtesy of Windstar

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full offer, itinerary, date, and pricing details.

Summer on Sale! Buy One Air Canada Vacation Package, Get Up To 50% off the 2nd Traveler

Mon, 13 Apr 26 16:07:54 +0000

Save on summer travel with Air Canada Vacations! Its popular “Buy a package, get up to 50% off the 2nd traveler – Made for Two” summer offer is returning, giving Canadians more ways to save on sun getaways and cruise vacations.

Only for a limited time, save up to 50% on the second traveler when booking select vacation packages to Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and, new for Europe, Palma de Mallorca, a perfect summer beach escape.

Savings also apply to select Flight & Hotel packages to Orlando, Hawaii, and California.

The offer also applies to select Flight & Cruise packages to Mexico, the Caribbean, California, and Hawaii, with savings on the second traveler’s flight.

Book by May 3, 2026, for travel between April 7 and October 31, 2026.

Applicable to new bookings only, with a minimum 7-night stay, based on double occupancy with non-stop Economy Class flights on select packages and departure dates.

Air Canada Vacations brings you the world

Making dreams travel for over 50 years, Air Canada Vacations is a leading travel expert that delivers travel moments to Canadians. The packaged tour operator offers expertly curated vacation packages that include all-inclusive options, Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions, and a variety of activities and experiences. With destinations spanning the globe, including Mexico and the Caribbean, Central and South America, Europe, Canada, the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, and Asia, Air Canada Vacations makes travel easy and memorable for Canadians. For a seamless travel experience, Air Canada Vacations offers enhanced customer service with access to destination representatives in key regions, ensuring local service and support throughout the trip. Air Canada Vacations packages include flights on board Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge, and the ability to earn and redeem Aeroplan points.

*** Image: XXXX

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask us for full offer, itinerary, date and pricing details

Easter Island, French Polynesia & New Zealand - Azamara Cruise

Wed, 01 Apr 26 14:01:37 +0000

Explore this Easter Island, French Polynesia & New Zealand Cruise: Moorea, Bora Bora & Bay Of Islands sailing from CALLAO (LIMA) to AUCKLAND on Jan 19 2028

French Polynesia & New Zealand Cruise: Papeete, Bora Bora & Auckland - Azamara Onward

Wed, 01 Apr 26 14:01:37 +0000

Explore this French Polynesia & New Zealand Cruise: Papeete, Bora Bora & Auckland sailing from PAPEETE, TAHITI to AUCKLAND on Feb 4 2028.

Always Included

Variety of Dining Venues & 24-hour Room Service
Beer, Wine, and Spirits All Day & Night
Signature AzAmazing Evenings
Unlimited Self-Service Laundry
Onboard Gratuities

Always Expected

Overnights & Extended Destination Days
Unique & Iconic Destinations
No Hassle, No Crowds
Warm & Attentive Service

Andrew King Your Travel Consultant Feed

Spain Must-Visit Cities

13-Day Highlights of Spain - Tour 2A - Sun Princess

Madrid, Spain to Civitavecchia (for Rome), Italy

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

Optional add-ons

130th Anniversary Summer Sale - HX Expeditions

Save up to 25% on select HX departures1

Free Suite Upgrade2

Change the way you see the world

Getting Around in Spain

Spain

7-Day Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse - Sun Princess

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

Optional add-ons

7-Day Western Mediterranean with Italy - Sun Princess

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

Optional add-ons

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day - Allure of the Seas - Dec 2026

Join Our Group

27-Day Highlights of Spain - Tour 2C - Sun Princess

Madrid, Spain to Barcelona, Spain

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

Optional add-ons

Best Time to Visit Spain

How to pay in Spain

21-Day The Best of the Mediterranean with Total Solar Eclipse - Sun Princess

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

Optional add-ons

Portugal, Spain & The Douro River Valley - Uniworld

Spain Food & Dining Tips

Cruise & Tour: Discover Portugal & Spain - Uniworld

20-Day Highlights of Spain - Tour 2B - Sun Princess

Madrid, Spain to Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Sun Princess®

Princess Standard fare includes

Optional add-ons

5 Spectacular Annual Flower Shows Worth Planning a Trip Around

1. Keukenhof Gardens — Netherlands

2. Chelsea Flower Show — London, UK

3. Floriade Canberra — Canberra, Australia

4. Chiang Mai Flower Festival — Chiang Mai, Thailand

5. Genzano Infiorata — Genzano, Italy

START YOUR TRIP!

Two New Ships, Two Ways to Cruise: There Really is a Cruise Out There for Everyone

Emerald Kaia and the Rise of Yacht-Style Cruising

Relaxing at Sea: Dining and Design Re-imagined aboard Emerald Kaia

Norwegian Luna, A Ship That’s Its Own Destination

The Ultimate Vehicle for Multi-generational Travel

Beyond the Ship: The Rise of Curated Destinations

The Big Takeaway: A Cruise Style for Every Traveler

START YOUR TRIP!

Kensington Tours, Ancestry.com’s Private Personal Heritage Journeys Connect Travelers to their Roots

WHERE CAN KENSINGTON TOURS' ANCESTRY TRAVEL TAKE US?

ASK US TO HELP YOU DESIGN THE FAMILY HERITAGE TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

Ancestry Travel Tips

Ancestry Travel Hotspots

How to do Ancestry Travel?

Here are tips to get the most from ancestry travel:

Do the Homework (But be Realistic)

Bring in a Local Expert

Balance Roots With Real Travel

Strike up Conversations

Manage Your Expectations

START YOUR TRIP!

River to Ocean Onboard a Single Ship: Windstar’s New Way to Cruise

Where Does Star Explorer Sail on Her River-to-Ocean Voyages?

Other River-Meets-Ocean Inspired Windstar Cruises

Growing Windstar Fleet

START YOUR TRIP!

Windstar Cruises Offers All-Inclusive Upgrade on Worldwide Voyages

Windstar Offer Details:

Why Cruise the Windstar Way?

Where Does Windstar Sail?

This offer includes regions and itineraries, including:

Save up to 25% on select HX departures¹

Free Suite Upgrade²

More About Windstar Cruises:        