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Winter Olympics in the South of France? Mais Oui!

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 18 Feb 26 20:41:42 +0000

The next 2030 Winter Olympics will be the only Games where you can watch skiing in the morning and sip local Provencal rosé by the Mediterranean in the afternoon. Inspired by the images coming from the Winter Games, and wondering why you aren’t in Europe in the stands? It’s not too early to plan ahead for the next Games – especially with the charm and the contrast of peak winter sports and the French Riviera lifestyle.

The French Alps, including the Côte d'Azur, centered around Nice, will host the 2030 Winter Olympics from February 1–17, 2030. Paralympics follow from March 1–10, 2030.

Wait – How Can This Work?

Hosting the Winter Olympics in the Côte d’Azur / French Riviera is possible because the event is actually a joint endeavor between the coast and nearby regions of the Alps: the "French Alps 2030".

Believe it or not, even with a Mediterranean backdrop, the Games are actually able to take advantage of a lot of existing winter sports infrastructure. So it’s not going to be one of the infamous international sports events that require massive funding of facilities that have little purpose in the future.

The iconic coastal city of Nice is the central hub of the Games, but it will host just indoor "ice" events, including figure skating, speed skating, hockey and curling. Nice’s Allianz Riviera soccer stadium will be temporarily transformed into a massive ice rink, as the French are calling it, a “palace of hockey” seating over 30,000 for one of the most-viewed and hotly-contested team sports. The Palais Nikaia will see curling teams compete, and a 5000-seat new arena is being built for figure skating and short-track.

In the meantime, the "snow" events will be held in the nearby Southern and Northern Alps in four zones that take advantage of their existing alpine sports infrastructure:

The Briançonnais zone is located in the Southern Alps and will host freestyle skiing and snowboarding.

The Savoie zone is already home to world-class resorts like Courchevel (pictured) and Méribel, and will be the site of the alpine skiing, ski jumping, and bobsleigh/luge competitions.

And finally, the Haute-Savoie zone to the north is where biathlon and cross-country skiing events will take place.

Meanwhile, in Nice, a new Nice Airport TGV (High Speed Train) station is under construction to make it easy for visitors to arrive from all corners of the world and get around easily during the Games. Afterwards, of course, it will remain a legacy benefitting all visitors to the South of France.

Historic First:

The closing ceremony for the 2030 Games is planned for Nice’s picturesque Promenade des Anglais (pictured, top), offering a historic first: a Winter Olympic finale with the Mediterranean Sea as the backdrop instead of a traditional stadium.

Winter on the Côte d’Azur

Not to mention the incredible charms of the French Riviera lifestyle – even in the winter! The 2030 Winter Games will also shine a spotlight on a beloved travel destination that’s not often considered a four-season option – but it should be!

Cool temperatures encourage you to get cozy while walking along the scenic coastline promenades, where pine trees meet palm trees year-round.

Winter is when the mimosa blooms – the iconic, cheerful, sunshine-yellow and unmistakably-scented symbol of the season in the South of France.

It’s also a culinary peak time of the year. Winter is the season for the French citrus harvest and even the ‘black diamonds’ of southern French cuisine: truffles! Markets and restaurants celebrate the seasonal ingredients, and you’ll attend the next competition of the Winter Games, replete with some of the best French cuisine of your life.

The first-ever opportunity to experience the highest levels of winter sport and storied French Riviera lifestyle, all in the same unforgettable trip, is a travel opportunity of a lifetime.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert

From Samba to Snow! Carnival Around the World

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 18 Feb 26 20:41:27 +0000

When you start to see Easter candy on the shelves, you know it’s time for… Carnival! It’s one of the biggest celebrations – that looks wildly different! - in countries around the world.

While always colorful, Carnival is celebrated with such intensely localized traditions that it’s easy to forget that all the Carnivals have the same medieval roots. Christians prepared themselves for the most solemn holy day of Easter by spending the preceding 40 days – called “Lent” – fasting, praying, giving alms and in contemplation of the upcoming miraculous holiday.

That meant that the last couple of days before the beginning of Lent, households rid themselves of anything tempting or forbidden during the time of pious restrictions.

“Carnival” comes from the Latin “carne vale” or “farewell to meat,” and Carnival became a final indulgence before the privations of Lent. On the Christian calendar, Lent begins on “Ash Wednesday.” So Tuesday was your last chance. The French expression “Mardi Gras” means “Fat Tuesday” – time to eat all the rich food in the house before Lent so it wouldn’t go to waste.

Over time, Carnival or Mardi Gras evolved into wild celebrations of dance, drink, disguises, food and music.

And as Christianity spread around the world, Carnival evolved into wildly different expressions of local culture, cuisine, climate… and even resistance.

Here are some of the world’s most different – and irresistible - Carnivals to inspire you to travel and celebrate in February!

VENICE

The Venice Carnival is one of the world’s most iconic and is uniquely symbolized by masks and historic costumes, even today. Here, Carnival isn’t loud; it’s theatrical and dramatic. The city’s lagoon-softened light, historic palazzi and gliding gondolas provide the perfect backdrop for a festival built on concealment and social inversion.

Historically, Venetian masks allowed nobles and commoners to all appear anonymous and mingle freely, gambling and gossiping beyond class constraints before returning to the usual strict social order on the first day of Lent.

Today, the tradition endures in the form of exquisitely crafted masks, silk capes, and full 18th-century costumes that transform St. Mark’s Square into a living panorama every Carnival season. Rather than parades and public parties, Venice offers moments: a masked figure gliding over a bridge at dawn, candlelit balls in Renaissance palaces, or quiet promenades along misty canals.

RIO DE JANEIRO

If Venice whispers, Rio roars. Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is a full-throttle experience, driven by samba, sweat, and spectacle. Born from Afro-Brazilian traditions and shaped in working-class neighborhoods, Rio’s Carnival is both celebration and competition. The centerpiece is the Sambadrome, where elite samba schools spend all year preparing elaborate floats, choreography, and politically charged themes for a single night of emotional release, competition in the Sambadrome and chaos on the streets.

Rio’s Carnival blocos—street parties—spill through neighborhoods, inviting anyone with a pulse to join. Fueled by caipirinhas made with a local sugarcane spirit, cachaca, even if you’ve never danced the samba before, you’ll discover the rhythm within you to join in Rio’s spirit of Carnival.

NEW ORLEANS

In NOLA, Carnival goes by a different name. Mardi Gras celebrations here have become legendary, making the birthplace of jazz one of the top Carnival destinations every February.

“Krewes,” some centuries old, plan extravagant parades with military precision, while the streets erupt in beads, music, and color. New Orleans’ Mardi Gras symbols are legendary: purple-green-and-gold beads tossed from ornate floats, masked krewe royalty like Rex and Zulu, hand-decorated coconuts, jazz bands on street corners, and the ever-present slice of king cake hiding its tiny baby inside.

Mardi Gras here isn’t just European Christian. It’s deeply rooted in the cultures that blended in this historic port city: French, African, Caribbean, and American South traditions into something unmistakably local. It’s a festival that belongs to the city’s people as much as its visitors—and one where tradition matters as much as the party.

QUEBEC CITY

Quebec City flips the Carnival script entirely by celebrating the coldest days of an unforgiving Canadian winter. The Québec Winter Carnival, held deep in February, proves that pre-Lenten revelry doesn’t require heat—just heart (and layers). Its cheerful snowman mascot, Bonhomme, presides over ice palaces, night parades, canoe races across the frozen St. Lawrence River, and plenty of caribou (a spiced maple liquor, not the animal).

This is Carnival as resilience and French Canadian culture: a celebration of endurance, community, and winter cheer. Where other Carnivals strip down, Quebec bundles up—and finds just as much joy.

TRINIDAD

Few places embody Carnival’s original spirit of liberation as powerfully as Trinidad. Emerging from the aftermath of slavery and colonial rule, Trinidad Carnival is rooted in resistance and self-expression.

Carnival in Port of Spain grew out of emancipation, when formerly enslaved Africans claimed the streets after 1834 and transformed an elite European masquerade into a bold expression of freedom and identity. Traditions like J’ouvert, steel pan music, and satirical mas characters remain acts of cultural resistance—celebrating liberation through rhythm, costume, and unapologetic public joy.

J’ouvert—held before dawn—sees revelers covered in mud, paint, or oil, reclaiming the streets to the beat of steel pan and soca. Later come the dazzling masquerade bands, where costume, movement, and music merge into something ecstatic and a declaration of identity, joy, and survival.

ONE FESTIVAL, MANY FORMS

From Venetian masks to Caribbean mud, from samba drums to snow palaces, Carnival proves that a shared ritual can take on endlessly diverse faces. Wherever you find it, Carnival invites participants to join in the spirit and rituals of a united community.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Getty

Polynesian Pearls: The Most Romantic Souvenir from the World’s Most Romantic Travel Destination

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 18 Feb 26 20:41:15 +0000

Inky, luminous, and subtly sophisticated. There’s a reason Tahitian “black pearls” are among the most sought-after additions to a jewelry box and a coveted memento of what may be the most exotic and romantic escape. Entire honeymoons are designed around visiting exotic lagoons, choosing an heirloom piece of jewelry and returning home with an iridescent miracle of nature in a velvet box.

A Pearl of a Gem

Unlike mineral gems, pearls are organic, marine miracles, created individually inside oysters. If an irritant, like a grain of sand, somehow ends up inside an oyster, to protect itself, the oyster coats the irritant with layers of nacre, slowly transforming it into something luminous and magically iridescent.

Tahitian pearls(often called “black pearls,” though they’re rarely pure black) come from the black-lip oyster, Pinctada margaritifera. These oysters thrive in the warm, pristine lagoons of islands such as Bora Bora, Rangiroa and Taha'a.

From Natural Treasure to Coveted Statement Piece

Long before the modern era of pearl cultivation, natural pearls were treasured throughout the Pacific, found rarely and randomly in wild oysters harvested for food.

European explorers arriving in the 18th and 19th centuries quickly recognized their value. By the early 20th century, overharvesting wild oysters nearly depleted local populations.

The turning point came in the 1960s and ’70s, when Japanese pearl cultivation techniques were successfully adapted for local oysters. Pearl farming became a cornerstone industry across the Tuamotu and Gambier archipelagos. Today, Tahitian pearls are one of French Polynesia’s most important exports—and one of its most elegant ambassadors.

Their value lies in three things: rarity, size, and color.

Tahitian pearls are saltwater cultured, often larger than other types of pearls, displaying natural dark body colors with luminous overtones: peacock green, aubergine, silver, blue, even hints of rose. That depth of color is not chemical dyes; it’s biology and environment working together.

In an era of mass-produced mementos, Tahitian pearls remain natural, deeply tied to place, and a true heirloom treasure.

5 Tips for Shopping for Tahitian Pearls in French Polynesia

As a symbol of love, elegance and travel sophistication, pearls are investments you want to cherish for a lifetime and pass along as heirlooms. You want to shop wisely.

Walk through Papeete’s municipal market, browse high-end boutiques in Bora Bora, or visit a working pearl farm on Rangiroa, and you’ll see the range—from simple single-pearl pendants perfect for daily wear to dramatic strands worthy of black-tie evenings back home.

1. Grading basics

Four factors matter most:

Luster (the glow): The sharper and brighter the reflection, the more valuable the pearl.
Surface quality: Fewer visible blemishes generally mean higher value.
Shape: A perfectly round shape is rare and most expensive. Near-round and baroque shapes can offer excellent value.
Size: Larger pearls command higher prices—but only if luster and surface are strong.

Experts suggest that if you must prioritize one thing, prioritize luster. A slightly smaller pearl with exceptional glow will outshine a larger dull one.

2. Black is the new black… or is it?

True Tahitian pearls display natural dark body colors with complex overtones. If a pearl looks flat, jet-black, and inexpensive, it may be dyed freshwater. Ask directly: Is the color natural? Reputable jewelers will say yes—and put it on your receipt.

3. Look at the drill hole

Ask to see the pearl closely. Around the drill hole, color should be consistent. Heavy dye often pools at the edges in treated pearls (less common in certified Tahitian pieces, but still worth checking).

4. Compare in natural light

Boutique lighting flatters everything. Step near a window. The pearl should still glow, not look chalky.

5. Ask for documentation

French Polynesia has strict export regulations for Tahitian pearls. Your purchase should come with:

A detailed receipt listing pearl type and size
Disclosure of any treatments (Tahitian pearls are generally not dyed)
Certification for buying higher-value pieces

Are they worth the price?

Tahitian pearls are among the most valuable cultured pearls in the world because of their rarity, natural dark colors, and the time required to grow them—often 18 to 24 months.

Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for a modest pendant to several thousand for exceptional, round, high-luster pieces. The key question is not just price—it’s whether the pearl has strong luster, pleasing color, and craftsmanship to match.

If it does, you’re not just buying jewelry. You’re buying a natural, marine treasure.

Perhaps that’s why Tahiti's “black” pearls endure as Polynesia’s most meaningful souvenir: subtle, luminous, and forever linked to water, time, and your memories of the lagoons and shifting tides of your trip to a once-in-a-lifetime destination steeped in romance.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/travel journalist

Images: Getty

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ New Ship ‘Sails’ Into the Future of Luxury Expedition Cruising

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 18 Feb 26 20:40:56 +0000

The romance of sailing cruise ships is back, and the new generation of sailing cruise ships has a modern and eco-friendly twist. The latest cruise line to announce it’s building a sailing yacht is Atlas Ocean Voyages, whose new ship – a luxury, expedition sailing yacht – is set to embark on the seas in late 2028.

If you’re imagining historic-looking tall ships, think again. The line’s new Atlas-class vessel is an eco-friendly exploration yacht with hybrid propulsion, including wind power enabled by three carbon masts and solid sails.

When conditions at sea and with the wind permit, these elements will enhance operational efficiency and enable zero-emission cruising, allowing for a silent presence on the water. The new ship is equipped with dual-fuel engines and electric-hybrid propulsion, featuring a large marine battery system that enables high speeds even in light wind conditions, enhancing the sailing experience with virtually silent operation.

Atlas Adventurer is engineered to sail in any waters of the world, including polar destinations, equipped with zero-speed fin stabilizers, two vertical fin stabilizers, a reinforced hull, and Ice Class 1B (Polar Category C) capability.

Accommodating up to 400 guests, supported by a crew of 275, the Atlas-class sailing yacht will also expand the cruise line’s onboard guest experience, including all-suite accommodations across every category, increased space and amenities, and a broader range of dining, wellness, and social offerings, while maintaining the boutique hospitality that defines Atlas Ocean Voyages.

The vessel will include seven dining venues, featuring specialty restaurants and a new culinary studio for hands-on learning and destination-inspired programming. It will also have five lounges, a cocktail bar and social spaces, along with two outdoor bars. Guests will find an expanded fitness and wellness center, a large swimming pool, and purpose-built expedition capabilities, including Zodiacs, luxury motorboats, and a marina platform with an ocean pool for water-based exploration.

“With Atlas Adventurer, we are introducing a new generation of luxury expedition sailing yachts. This vessel serves as a bridge between the wind mastery of the 15th century and the solid sails and electric propulsion of the 21st century,” said Mario Ferreira, Chairman, Founder and Owner of Mystic Invest Holding, Atlas’ parent company.

“The yacht is designed to comply with future zero- emission port regulations and can navigate silently, allowing access to some of the most exclusive and restricted small ports around the world.”

Inaugural Season

Beginning in late 2028, Atlas Adventurer will explore destinations across Asia, including Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, and Africa, including Seychelles, Madagascar, Tanzania, Kenya, Mozambique and South Africa, further extending the line’s global reach while continuing to redefine luxury expedition cruising to remote destinations around the world.

Atlas Adventurer will join the cruise line’s existing fleet of 3 ships that are designed to explore some of the world’s most remote and captivating destinations.

START YOUR TRIP!

Renderings courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Tanya is the best

tanya@fillyourbucketlisttravel.com (Tanya Mark) — Mon, 16 Feb 26 18:35:59 +0000

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Tanya Photo8

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Mon, 16 Feb 26 18:34:41 +0000

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anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Mon, 16 Feb 26 18:34:02 +0000

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anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Mon, 16 Feb 26 18:32:58 +0000

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anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Mon, 16 Feb 26 18:32:18 +0000

Ponant Explorations Launches New, Sailing-Ship Itinerary to the French Riviera in 2026

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

Is there any more authentic way of cruising than by sailing ship? You don’t need to know how to sail to get on board a true sailing ship cruise – and in May 2026, French-flagged cruise line Ponant is debuting a brand-new, eight-day along the Côte d’Azur – perhaps one of the most iconic and romantic cruise – and sailing – destinations in the world! aboard its iconic three-masted sailing yacht, Le Ponant.

DON’T MISS OUT ON THIS LIFE-CHANGING CRUISE!

ASK US FOR MORE DETAILS

Beginning and ending in Nice, the elegant vessel — the world’s first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht — will chart an unforgettable course east to the colorful Italian fishing village of Portofino before gliding back along the French Riviera.

Along the way, guests will discover coastal gems such as the citrus-hued port of Menton, the glamour-soaked shores of Antibes, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, and the charming, lesser-known port of Cassis.

Highlights of the itinerary include curated excursions to the Riviera’s most iconic and cultural landmarks, and following in the footsteps of local cultural icons Picasso and Bardot. Whether exploring charming villages or world-renowned historical sites, such as Portofino’s cliff-top lighthouse and the old town of Antibes with its 16th-century ramparts, every stop offers another perspective on the Riviera’s wonders. Back on board, guests can dive straight into the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters or make use of Le Ponant’s array of aquatic toys. From glass-bottomed kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to snorkeling gear and a saltwater pool, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the sea.

About Le Ponant Sailing Ship:

Stretching nearly 300 feet and recently refitted by a French design firm, Le Ponant accommodates just 32 guests in 16 stylish staterooms, each boasting panoramic windows with sea views. Guests can lounge on the sun deck beneath the billowing white sails, sip a cocktail from the outdoor bar, indulge in Biologique Recherche spa treatments, or savor organic, Mediterranean-inspired dishes at the yacht’s restaurant, Le Diamant. All this unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mediterranean’s colorful seaside villages, parasol-dotted beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs.

Itinerary Details: The French Riviera under Le Ponant’s Sails

Nice-Nice | 8 days, 7 nights
May 7-14, 2026
Fares start from USD 12,220 per guest

MORE ABOUT PONANT EXPLORATIONS

This intimate new Mediterranean voyage aboard Le Ponant embodies PONANT EXPLORATIONS' enduring spirit of authentic sailing adventures. PONANT EXPLORATIONS has been committed to more responsible tourism and purposeful voyages of exploration for over 35 years. From its founding with a single yacht in 1988 to today's fleet of 13 luxury vessels, fitted with the latest environmental technologies, the journey of exploration is always elegant, authentic and inspiring, with a dedication to small-ship exploration. With each curated itinerary including stops where larger vessels cannot reach, guests experience the same passion for the sea that has guided PONANT EXPLORATIONS for over three decades – a legacy of maritime excellence that continues to chart new horizons in experiential travel.

PONANT EXPLORATIONS sails to the Arctic and the Antarctic as well as in the Atlantic and North Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean, Asia, Oceania and South Pacific, the Caribbean, North, Central and South America.

***Images courtesy of Ponant Explorations

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

Globus & Cosmos Unveil New Tours Through Japan, India & Thailand

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

Asia is awe-inspiring, but it can also be complex to navigate on your own. That’s why the Globus family of brands is expanding its Asia portfolio with bold, new itineraries in Japan, India and Thailand in 2026.

Eliminate the guesswork, travel in expert hands, and elevate your experience to unlock every ‘wow’ moment – without the worry on once-in-a-lifetime journeys made easy and extraordinary through Globus and Cosmos tours.

JAPAN

Japan is more popular than ever! So Globus is expanding its Japan portfolio with a NEW Japan Escape for off-season travel from Tokyo to Kyoto (with an Osaka extension). The tour company is also refreshing its Visions of Japan tour to shift time from Tokyo to a new overnight in the Mt. Fuji area for even more scenic discoveries.

NEW! Japan Escape highlights include:

A tea ceremony, cooking class and 400-year-old gardens

Bullet train from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Peace Memorial Park and Museum in Hiroshima

Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine, with its floating Torii Gate

Nara Park’s free-roaming deer & Kasuga Shrine

Osaka’s Minami district and culinary culture

INDIA

Globus is also charting a new course through India with the NEW Heritage of India & the Ganges River cruise and tour – offering travellers a one-of-a-kind blend of land discoveries and river cruising on the sacred Ganges.

Meanwhile, Cosmos is also expanding its value-minded collection with a NEW Colors of India’s Golden Triangle & Rajasthan tour – offering multiple ways to explore India’s iconic cities, sacred sites and colourful countryside.

NEW! Heritage of India & the Ganges River highlights:

Rickshaw ride through Old Delhi’s Chandni Chowk bazaar
Sunset and sunrise visits to the Taj Mahal
Amber Fort and City Palace Museum in Jaipur
7-night Ganges River cruise aboard the MV Bengal Ganga
Sightseeing in Kolkata and the Hooghly Imambara
Optional extensions to Varanasi and Kathmandu

NEW! Colors of India’s Golden Triangle & Rajasthan highlights:

Guided city sightseeing of Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Mumbai
Admission to the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, Agra Fort and City Palace Museum
Rickshaw ride through Delhi
Boat ride on Lake Pichola
Train ride to Mahalaxmi Station in Mumbai

THAILAND

Also NEW for 2026, Globus’ Enchanting Thailand tour leads travellers through dazzling cities, tranquil villages and lush countryside. From floating markets and elephant observations to tea plantations and temple visits, this journey delivers “wow” at every turn, with highlights like a long-tail boat cruise on the Chao Phraya River, the UNESCO-listed Sukhothai Historical Park and Bangkok’s iconic Grand Palace.

ABOUT THE GLOBUS FAMILY OF BRANDS

With nearly a century of expertise and Swiss roots, the family-owned Globus family of brands (Globus, Cosmos and Avalon Waterways) has inspired wanderlust, making the world more accessible to travellers through a diverse portfolio of vacation options, including guided tours, river cruises and independent travel packages. As the world’s largest tour operator, the Globus family of brands is driven by a mission to enrich lives through the joy of travel. From the iconic landmarks that define history to the hidden gems that spark wonder, from cruising the world’s most captivating waterways to following passions in lesser-known corners of the globe, these brands create extraordinary journeys that blend effortless exploration, incredible value and authentic discoveries.

*** Image courtesy of Globus family of brands

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

Luxury Gold Launches “Spectacular Scotland” Itinerary Redefining Luxury and Cultural Immersion

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

Luxury Gold, a high-end, small group tour company part of TTC Tour Brands, is launching a brand-new 10-day itinerary, Spectacular Scotland, crafted in partnership with VisitScotland for the ultimate in authentic, insider insights for your best visit to Scotland ever. The new tour is now open for booking for 2026 travel.

According to Luxury Gold, the new tour “redefines sustainable luxury, combining meaningful cultural immersion with a positive impact on the environment and local communities.”

The Spectacular Scotland itinerary seamlessly combines eco-conscious and luxury travel experiences:

Sustainably Designed Luxury: Developed with Visit Scotland to combat over-tourism, support local communities, and champion sustainable suppliers.
“Make Travel Matter” Experiences: Authentic, meaningful interactions like
- Weaving Highland tartan at Prickly Thistle,
  - wildlife conservation tours in Glencoe, and
  - marine protection efforts with the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust.
Exclusive Dining and Stays: Hand-foraged, locally sourced dining at Wedgwood the Restaurant, and award-winning, eco-certified stays at Cameron House on Loch Lomond.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Including Cairngorms National Park and Dunrobin Castle, offering guests fresh and less crowded perspectives of Scotland.

ASK US FOR AVAILABLE DATES AND PRICING!

About Luxury Gold

As the world leader in Luxury Small Group Journeys, Luxury Gold is redefining the New Golden Age of Travel. With the finest end-to-end travel experience, guests are spoilt with high-end experiences in magnificent environments, exceptional dining from sought-after restaurants to unique street food experiences, curated experiences with after-hours access and VIP treatment and magnificent stays at world-leading properties. Beyond these high-end experiences, guests' every need is catered to by their 24/7 Travel Concierge, who combines local knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts to customize guests’ journey while generating positive change through travel.

Luxury Gold is part of The Travel Corporation (TTC) portfolio of brands, driven by service for over one hundred years.

About The Travel Corporation
The Travel Corporation is a global portfolio of 18 travel brands, including the world’s number one escorted tour operator, Trafalgar, award-winning Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, premium guided vacation company Insight Vacations, youth travel specialists Contiki, and Celtic travel experts Brendan Vacations, among many others. After more than a century of blending transformative travel with extraordinary service, the venerable company remains committed to its signature ‘Driven by Service’ philosophy and to consistently delivering outstanding experiences and value to travelers, guests, and partners.

*** Images courtesy of TTC/ Luxury Gold

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

Orient Express Launches New Golf Luxury Rail Itineraries in Italy

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

La Dolce Vita, Orient Express’ luxury Italian rail experience, is a special partner of the 2025 Italian Open, and to coincide with the event, it’s launching new golf/rail itineraries in Italy, designed for golf enthusiasts – and luxury train lovers, of course!

Combine world-class golf courses with elegant travel aboard the Orient Express, the first Italian-made luxury train. La Dolce Vita debuted in the spring of 2025.

Its new golf itineraries were developed in collaboration with the Italian Golf Federation, launching in October, 2025, and highlighting Italy's premier golf experiences.

These Golf/ Rail Italian odysseys are selling out fast!

Ask us about the next available departures and pricing, and lock in your tee times and train journey!

La Dolce Vita Meets the Greens in 2 New Itineraries:

Northern Greens

Duration: 4 days, 3 nights

Golfing excellence meets the timeless elegance and charm of train travel.

For true connoisseurs, Northern Greens is an invitation to experience every swing in style, immersed in the beauty of Italy’s most prestigious courses—Marco Simone Golf & Country Club, host of the 2023 Ryder Cup, Franciacorta Golf Club, Royal Park I Roveri, and Antognolla Golf Club.

Italian Swing

Duration: 4 days, 3 nights

Designed for true golf lovers, this exclusive itinerary invites you to experience every swing in style, playing on Italy’s most iconic courses — Marco Simone Golf & Country Club, San Domenico Golf Club, The Club at Castiglion del Bosco, and Antognolla Golf Club — surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and exceptional atmospheres.

Both Itineraries Feature:

Luxury Golf Meets Rail Travel - La Dolce Vita Style
Unparalleled golf by day, where your train becomes a traveling salon, with every detail meticulously crafted to offer a bespoke experience, where time slows down and the journey becomes a work of art.
The train's interiors are a salute to the Italian design golden age and embody the spirit of mid-century glamour, an homage to La Dolce Vita and the cultural pulse of 1960s Italy.
Onboard, guests are treated to menus composed by chef Heinz Beck, inspired by the regions they traverse. The whole experience is distinguished by its high level of service, while stops at select destinations allow passengers to explore the unique cultural and historical aspects of each region. La Dolce Vita Orient Express invites travelers to rediscover Italy, slowly, elegantly and with remarkable attention to detail.
The golf itineraries feature curated masterclasses, exclusive events, and refined accommodations.
Professional Golfer:
You’re accompanied by a renowned professional golfer throughout the journey, who will offer bespoke technical sessions and casual guidance.
An Unforgettable Journey for Non-Golfing Partners, too:
Each stop will feature curated experiences catering to non-golfers as well.

Image courtesy of Orient Express/ Accor

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

Riverside Luxury Cruises: Christmas Market River Cruises, Refined

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

River cruises are one of the best ways to experience Europe’s historic Christmas markets, and Riverside Luxury Cruises makes it not only easy to explore multiple destinations without re-packing or hotel hopping – they also elevate the holidays to help you get into the spirit of the season.

SPACE STILL AVAILABLE ON SELECT 2025 AND 2026

RIVERSIDE LUXURY CRUISES

RHINE AND DANUBE CHRISTMAS MARKET RIVER CRUISES

Riverside Luxury Cruises is redefining luxury river cruising during the Christmas market season. With all-suite accommodations, butler service for all guests, and a culinary program that rivals the finest restaurants ashore, Riverside brings a new level of luxury, intimacy and personalization to the festive season on the rivers.

The river cruise line’s holiday sailings on the Rhine and Danube rivers are rooted in regional tradition, but delivered with Riverside’s signature personalized service and curated excursions to cuisine that reflects the flavors of each port along the rivers.

LET US HELP MAKE 2025 OR 2026 YOUR BEST HOLIDAY SEASON YET
WITH A RIVERSIDE LUXURY CRUISE

Flexible Itineraries That Fit the Season

With so much taking place on the home front, finding time for an extended vacation during the winter holidays can be challenging. Riverside is one of the few lines to offer 3- and 4-night sailings, making a European Christmas market experience surprisingly accessible. For travelers with more time, the line offers itineraries ranging from 7- 16 nights. Whether it’s a quick holiday escape or a longer celebration, guests can see more in less time without sacrificing comfort.

All-Inclusive, No-Stress Luxury

Riverside keeps holiday travel refreshingly effortless, with fine dining, top-shelf beverages, guided excursions, and wellness amenities all included. With no surprise costs or added planning, it’s luxury that feels intuitive—just when travelers need it most.

A Culinary Program That Rivals the Destinations

While the gingerbread and glühwein on shore are certainly worth sampling, the cuisine on board is just as memorable. Riverside’s award-winning culinary program emphasizes seasonal ingredients, local inspiration, and restaurant-quality execution—served in beautifully designed spaces with panoramic river views. A sommelier on board every ship ensures guests will always find the perfect wine pairing.

Iconic Markets, Intimate Moments

Riverside’s holiday cruises strike a rare balance: guests visit iconic markets in grand capitals like Vienna and Budapest while also discovering the storybook beauty of lesser-known towns like Koblenz, Germany and Krems, Austria. Each market brings its own regional flair—from bratwurst and roasted chestnuts to delicate pastries and spiced sweets—offering a delicious and immersive taste of local culture at every stop.

Spacious, Serene, and Designed for Fewer Guests

With one of the highest space-to-guest ratios on Europe’s rivers, Riverside ships offer a relaxed atmosphere more akin to a private villa than a cruise ship. Elegant lounges, a chic atelier space, and expansive top decks allow for quiet moments between bustling market visits. Each suite features a river-view French balcony, king-sized bed, and dedicated butler, delivering personalized service shaped to every guest’s preference.

More About Riverside Luxury Cruises

Riverside Luxury Cruises is Europe’s newest and most luxurious river cruise line, offering distinctive vacations on the Rhine, Rhône, Danube, Moselle, and Main rivers. The all-suites Riverside Mozart, Riverside Ravel, and Riverside Debussy offer the largest average suite size, all with king-size beds, the highest staff-to-guest ratio, and up to five onboard restaurants.

Guests can choose active tours from a menu of Riverside Choice excursions; take out a pedal- or e-bike, stored on board, for self-guided exploration; and bask in a rejuvenating treatment in the onboard FEHI Spa. On all itineraries, the ships stay late or overnight in some of Europe’s most captivating towns and cities, so guests can immerse themselves in authentic cultures and the destination’s social life. Throughout, every member of Riverside’s exceptional staff and crew delivers intuitive and personalized service for an all-inclusive and luxurious experience.

On board, guests enjoy butler service in every suite; gourmet cuisine made with high-quality, fresh ingredients a la minute; included premium wines and spirits; complimentary StarLink broadband Wi-Fi; unlimited shore excursions to immerse in Europe’s history, cultures and landmarks; prepaid gratuities; and complimentary ground transfers.

*** Images courtesy of Riverside Luxury Cruises

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

AmaWaterways and Smithsonian Journeys Partner on Collection of River Cruises

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

AmaWaterways’ river cruise ships will host an exclusive collection of 33, Smithsonian-crafted cultural experiences beginning in April 2026. The river cruise line has partnered with Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution on a series of European river cruises that will draw on the Smithsonian’s 175+ year history as the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex. These itineraries will include notable Smithsonian Journeys experts and offer opportunities for local immersion and discovery.

BOOKING HAS OPENED ON THIS UNIQUE COLLECTION OF RIVER CRUISES

– ASK US MORE!

Each of the nearly 3 dozen river cruises, on all the major rivers of Europe, provides exclusive excursions and opportunities to engage with a variety of experts, ranging from art historians, archaeologists and scientists to anthropologists, historians and more. All departures feature an assortment of pre- and post-cruise land packages, hosted by an AmaWaterways cruise manager, for guests to explore further beyond the cruise itinerary.

These new river cruise journeys range from eight to 15 days in duration.

The 2026 departures include (prices quoted in USD):

Holland and Belgium in Spring: A River Cruise at Tulip Time

April 4–11, April 9–16, April 12–19, April 16–23, 2026

Eight days starting from $3,949 per person double occupancy.

Guests can surround themselves with spring blossoms and fabulous art and architecture on a river cruise through Holland and Belgium timed to coincide with the annual tulip bloom. They will sail out of Amsterdam on a seven-night cruise, discovering historic windmills, medieval trading towns and vibrant modern-day cities, and encounter millions of brilliant tulips at the incredible Keukenhof Gardens.

Cruising the Upper Danube: Romantic Ports from Bavaria to Budapest

May 18–25, June 15–22, Sept. 7–14, Oct. 5–12, 2026

Eight days starting from $4,449 per person double occupancy.

The cruise will follow the Danube from southern Germany to Hungary, passing through three culturally rich Central European capitals: Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. Along the way, there will be stops at World Heritage sites such as Salzburg and the Wachau Valley and opportunities to experience vibrant traditions of music and art.

Cruising the Lower Danube: Gems of Southeast Europe

May 25–June 1, June 22–29, Sept. 14–21, Oct. 12–19, 2026

Eight days starting from $4,449 per person double occupancy.

Passengers can venture to some of Europe’s hidden delights as they sail the Danube from Hungary through the Balkan Peninsula to Romania. They can discover little-known World Heritage sites, and traditions of art and cuisine, and explore vivacious cities from Belgrade to Bucharest.

The Grand Danube: A River Cruise from Germany to Romania

May 18–June 1, June 15–29, Sept. 7–21, Oct. 5–19, 2026

15 days starting from $7,799 per person double occupancy.

Sailing the historic Danube River on a grand voyage through eight countries, passengers will visit the splendid world capitals of Budapest and Vienna as well as lesser-known historic gems from Croatia to Bulgaria. A choice of excursions will offer opportunities to experience local traditions of art, music and cuisine.

Christmas Markets along the Danube: A River Cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest

Dec. 5–12, Dec. 10–19, 2026

Eight days starting from $4,249 per person double occupancy.

Guests can savor the timeless holiday traditions of Central Europe as they cruise the Danube through Germany, Austria and Hungary, discovering delightful Christmas markets in world-class cities like Vienna and Budapest as well in charming towns and palaces from Regensburg to Salzburg.

Christmas Markets along the Rhine: A River Cruise from Amsterdam to Basel

Nov. 28–Dec. 5, Dec. 12–19, 2026

Eight days starting from $4,349 per person double occupancy.

Passengers will experience the enchantment of some of Europe’s most beloved Christmas markets on a cruise through Holland, Germany and France that features visits to Strasbourg and Cologne as well as medieval towns and villages that sparkle with holiday spirit.

The Captivating Rhine: A River Cruise from Amsterdam to Basel

May 14–21, June 20–27, July 18–25, Sept. 26–Oct. 3, 2026

Eight days starting from $4,449 per person double occupancy.

Cruising the Rhine River from one fascinating city to the next and discovering medieval villages, guests will discover wine regions and culinary delights as they make their way from the Netherlands to Germany and France.

Europe’s Magnificent Waterways: Cruising the Rhine, Main, and Danube River

May 30–June 13, 2026

15 days starting from $7,499 per person double occupancy.

An unforgettable cruise will sail three of Europe’s grand rivers—the Rhine, the Main and the Danube—from the canals of Amsterdam to the majestic heart of Budapest. Along the way, guests can enjoy local cuisine, history and a host of World Heritage sites.

Cruising Portugal’s Enticing Douro River Valley

May 8–15, June 9–16, Sept. 4–11, Sept. 25–Oct. 2, Oct. 13–20, 2026

Eight days starting from $4,949 per person double occupancy.

Setting sail from the World Heritage-listed city of Porto, guests can discover the spectacular landscapes of Portugal’s Douro River Valley, where wines have been produced for some 2,000 years. They will visit picturesque villages and palaces; spend a day in beautiful Salamanca, Spain; and enjoy tastings at historic wine estates.

Rhône River Cruise: Colors of Provence

May 21–28, July 16–23, Oct. 8–15, 2026

Eight days starting from $4,949 per person double occupancy.

The delightful ambience of Provence on a river cruise from the heart of Lyon to Arles will feature magnificent historic sites from the Roman Pont Du Gard to the Papal Palace in Avignon, culinary tours and visits to renowned wine regions and the stunning gorges of Ardèche.

Along the Seine: A River Cruise from Paris to Normandy

May 14–21, Sept. 3–10, Sept. 24–Oct. 1, 2026

Eight days starting from $5,049 per person double occupancy.

Starting from the heart of Paris on the fabled River Seine, the cruise will wind through the glorious countryside of Normandy to the English Channel. Along the way, passengers can explore historic sites from Rouen to Omaha Beach, savor the region’s proud culinary traditions and trace the footsteps of great artists from Claude Monet to Josephine Baker.

Taste of Bordeaux: Cruising the Waterways of Southwest France

Oct. 1–8, 2026

Eight days starting from $5,049 per person double occupancy.

An enchanting voyage through Bordeaux and its picturesque wine regions will offer opportunities to explore charming towns and historic sites from Cadillac to Dordogne and savor exquisite local wines and cuisine.

*** Image(s) courtesy of AmaWaterways.

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

Riviera River Cruises Offers 50% Discount on 2026 Departures

worldsgreatestcruises@gmail.com (Lynn Elmhirst) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

Riviera River Cruises is now offering a 50% discount on all 2026 European river cruise departures in celebration of the launch of sales for that year, as well as the announcement of a new ship, five new themed itineraries and a new departure exclusively for solo travelers.

Through December 15, 2024, book an eight-day itinerary for USD $1,999 per person based on double occupancy instead of $3,999, for example, or an itinerary of 11 days or more for $3,799 instead of $7,599.

Whether it’s a classic itinerary like The Blue Danube, an extended itinerary like the Grand Cruise Through the Heart of Europe to the Black Sea, a new themed itinerary or a cruise aboard the new Riviera Resplendence, you can book any 2026 departure for half price.

And when it comes time to board, you’ll also enjoy stylish and spacious accommodations, welcoming local guides and all-inclusive drinks between 10 a.m. and midnight.

New for 2026 is the 178-guest Riviera Resplendence with a third restaurant and Riviera’s largest-ever suites; the new Gardens & Natural Beauty of the Rhine, Gastronomy of the Danube, Gastronomy of the Rhine & Moselle, Gastronomy of the Seine and Music & Art of the Blue Danube themed itineraries; and the Medieval Germany for Solo Travelers itinerary.

Riviera River Cruises offers a variety of cruises on rivers and waterways across Europe, including dedicated departures for solo travelers with no single supplement, as well as themed and holiday season itineraries. Its cruises include fine dining experiences, a complimentary drinks package and expert-led excursions to iconic sights and hidden gems aboard one of the youngest fleets of ships in Europe, with spacious cabins and suites.

Riviera guarantees exceptional value, promising never to add hidden surcharges or fees, and it doesn’t automatically include gratuities, so the choice is up to guests.

More About Riviera River Cruises

Riviera River Cruises is the United Kingdom’s leading river cruise operator, with a sales staff working across North America. Riviera is known for its award-winning product, with ships featuring spacious cabins and suites, first-class service, a relaxed atmosphere, sumptuous onboard meals and captivating excursions, as well as its exceptional value, earning it accolades media in the U.K. and United States.

Riviera puts its guests first, hosting over 100,000 in the past five years, and is very supportive of the travel agency community, accepting bookings exclusively from advisors.

***Image courtesy of Riviera River Cruises

*** Terms & Conditions apply; ask your trusted travel advisor for full promotion details, as well as available itineraries, dates and pricing.

AmaWaterways Expands Concierge Golf River Cruise Program to France

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

Tee up in some of France’s most scenic fairways in 2026 as AmaWaterways adds Seine River cruises from Paris to Normandy to its Concierge Golf river cruise program. It’s the perfect way to combine world-class river cruising with rounds at five of France’s most prestigious, championship-level courses.

Launching on the popular Impressions of the Seine & Paris itinerary aboard AmaDante, the new program is an optional add-on for guests on select sailings in 2026, and bookings are now open.

This new program on the Seine joins AmaWaterways’ popular Concierge Golf Program on the Danube, available on board AmaMagna.

CAPACITY IS LIMITED; CONTACT US TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR GOLF RIVER CRUISE!

The program lets couples pursue their passions; in addition to the golfing experiences, they enjoy the luxury and comfort of award-winning AmaDante, including spacious staterooms with French balconies, regionally inspired cuisine and wines, complimentary wellness activities, and curated shore excursions in charming French towns and historic sites.

The Concierge Golf Program includes:

rounds of golf at up to five championship-level courses
luxury Mercedes transfers between the ship and each course
full concierge service, including club and shoe cleaning after each round—an exclusive offering by AmaWaterways
à la carte lunches with beer and wine at every course
golf carts and range tokens were available, along with
a special welcome package containing Titleist Pro V1 or Callaway Chrome Soft golf balls, a pitch repair tool, a leather shoe bag, and detailed course guides

making it the most comprehensive amenity package offered to golfers by any river cruise line.

Where Will You Golf?

While all courses welcome golfers from around the world, AmaWaterways is the only river cruise line to offer play at Golf de Saint-Germain, Racing Club de France La Boulie and Golf PGA France du Vaudreuil. The full list of featured courses includes:

Le Golf National (Guyancourt) – Home to the 2018 Ryder Cup, this world-renowned course is a true test of precision and power, famous for its thrilling final holes surrounded by water.
Racing Club de France La Boulie (Versailles) – A historic course designed by Willie Park Jr., offering tree-lined fairways and a rich tournament pedigree.
Golf PGA France du Vaudreuil (Normandy) – A challenging yet scenic course that hosts the annual Vaudreuil Golf Challenge.
Golf Étretat (Étretat) – A breathtaking clifftop course overlooking the sea, combining natural beauty with windswept challenges.
Golf de Saint-Germain (Saint-Germain-en-Laye) – A prestigious Harry Colt-designed course known for its forest setting and strategic layout. (Walking only)

The program has been developed in AmaWaterways’ exclusive partnership with LGT Golf, the award-winning European luxury golf tour operator.

More About AmaWaterways

Family-owned and operated for 23 years, AmaWaterways offers river cruise experiences with 31 custom-designed ships sailing Europe’s major rivers; Southeast Asia’s Mekong River; Africa’s Chobe River; Egypt’s Nile River and Colombia’s Magdalena River. AmaWaterways is renowned for its warm and welcoming crew; innovative and sustainable ship design; wellness activities (including a wide choice of included small group shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options); and award-winning, locally sourced cuisine paired with complimentary fine wine.

Modern, spacious, and tastefully decorated, most AmaWaterways ships welcome an average of just 150 guests and feature onboard amenities such as a stunning Main Lounge, specialty Chef’s Table restaurant, hair and massage salons, Sun Deck walking track and heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars.

***Images courtesy of AmaWaterways

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

Globus Unveils New North America Escorted Vacations for 2026

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

“The world’s most-awarded tour operator” invites you to discover the extraordinary close to home with 3 new escorted tours in the USA and Canada for 2026 – including an immersive Small Group Discovery tour through California, an Undiscovered itinerary across Colorado and a winter wonderland vacation to Québec. Each itinerary promises VIP access, local encounters and perfectly planned details that take travelers well beyond the ordinary.

Globus makes travel stress-free, taking care of all the details so you can focus on your experience and create travel memories. Tours feature handpicked hotels, expert Tour Directors, and local guides, including sightseeing and customizable experiences; these vacations take care of all the hassles of planning.

NEW Coastal California, Napa & the Central Valley (Small Group Discovery tour)

From the Channel Islands to charming Carmel, and lavender fields to local olive oil estates, this new Small Group Discovery tour brings guests face-to-face with the sights, stories and flavours of California’s coastal corridor and wine country – all with an average group size of just 18. Guests will enjoy honey and mead tastings, a slow-food movement lunch, a lavender farm tour, a visit to Sonoma and private winery visits in the Napa Valley area – plus stays in boutique accommodations along the way.

Those opting for a longer, 12-day version will cap their trip with extra time and a hop-on-hop-off pass in San Francisco.

Don’t Miss: Pebble Beach panoramas, art- and sustainability workshops with the Junk Girls and the scent of lavender in the air.

NEW Colorful Colorado: Peaks, Parks and Panoramas (Undiscovered tour)

This Undiscovered tour takes guests off-the-beaten-path to showcase the raw beauty of the Rockies, with visits to all four of Colorado’s national parks, including Mesa Verde’s ancient cliff dwellings and the shifting sands of the Great Sand Dunes National Park. Guests will ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad, choose their own adventure in Colorado Springs (either the Cog Railway or the Olympic-Paralympic Museum), and sip small-batch spirits in Palisade.

For those seeking even more awe, the 14-day version continues aboard the Canyon Spirit train – a luxe rail journey that winds through Glenwood Springs, Moab and the canyons of Utah before ending in Salt Lake City.

Don’t Miss: 11,000-foot views, UNESCO World Heritage sites and riding vintage rails into America’s Wild West.

NEW Winter in Montréal and Québec (Special Event tour)

It’s the most magical time of year in Canada’s most charming cities. This new winter tour wraps travellers in European-style holiday markets, historic landmarks and cozy culinary traditions. From Notre-Dame Basilica to Montmorency Falls, festive sugar shack feasts to twinkling Christmas markets, this getaway is equal parts heartwarming and snow-dusted.

Don’t Miss: Stay in legendary Fairmont hotels, celebrate French-Canadian culture and enjoy the sights (and sweets) of an old-world Noël.

America’s 250th Birthday

In addition to these new itineraries, Globus previously released a new getaway honoring America’s semiquincentennial with its Celebrating America: 250 Years Strong tour – a milestone journey through the country’s most historic cities, from Boston to Washington, D.C. This special itinerary invites travellers to walk in the footsteps of history and experience the nation’s story like never before.

LET US HELP YOU PLAN A TRIP CLOSE TO HOME NEXT YEAR!

MORE ABOUT GLOBUS

A century in the making, Globus takes travelers beyond the guidebooks, beyond the ordinary and beyond expectations with expertly designed tours across seven continents. From classic journeys to small-group discoveries and independent adventures to undiscovered surprises, Globus ensures every trip delivers front-row access to legendary landmarks. No planning. No hassles. Just hand-picked hotels, seamless transportation and insider expertise with the world’s most awarded tour operator, which translates to ease.

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

*** Image courtesy of Globus

G Adventures launches Rail Collection: 60 trips in 20 countries

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

Train travel is returning full force, and G Adventures is designing a new suite of trips that allows you to enjoy the flexible, immersive and effortless joys of rail journeys. Its new Rail Collection features iconic rail journeys and lesser-known routes around the world.

The 60-trip-strong collection celebrates the belief that the journey is just as enriching as the destination, and offers so much more than just getting from A to B. Instead, every small group trip acts as a gateway to cultural immersion, encouraging connection with local people, and allows travelers to travel flexibly and responsibly – all while revelling in the joy of the journey.

The diverse new collection includes trips from across G Adventures’ travel styles, from Solo-ish to Geluxe, meaning every type of traveler, from budget-conscious to comfort-seekers, can experience the exhilarating and eye-opening adventure of train travel, on a journey that combines spontaneous encounters and stress-free transport logistics.

Instead of rushed airport transits and wasted time on flights that bypass local life on the ground, every rail journey is a focal point and unforgettable part of the experience, from the rarely seen landscapes and villages viewed from a window seat on a journey through India or Italy, to the unexpected conversations and memories made from sharing a cabin with locals on a night train in Vietnam.

As the name suggests, the majority of every journey is taken by rail, a mode of transport that can prove challenging to coordinate independently in some parts of the world. True to all G Adventures trips, every element of the new journeys is pre-planned for the group and guided by charismatic Chief Experience Officers (CEOS).

More Benefits of Rail Travel

By swapping flights for rail, you can reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy an easier way to explore more responsibly, while making the most of authentic connections and soaking up every detail along the way. The collection also creates a more positive impact on harder-to-reach local communities; the trains will stop off at smaller transport hubs and stations, so the group can buy from local sellers and take in daily life in lesser-seen parts of the country.

(Train travel) “is often viewed as a slow-paced and tame way to travel, but, in reality, it can be thrilling, vibrant and filled with cultural immersion. Travelers want the thrill of adventure without the stress of planning every detail, the freedom to explore without the hassle of airports, and a journey that feels as immersive as the places they visit. We’ve picked 60 fantastic trips from across G Adventures’ travel styles that really celebrate the different experiences available through train travel; from high-tech commuter trains in Japan, to sleeper trains in Vietnam,” says G Adventures.

From newly-launched adventures to traveler favorites, the 60 trips that form the Rail Collection are available to book now and include:

Highlights of Poland

From traditional cooking classes to fascinating walking tours, on this 10-day Classic journey, the group will experience the highlights of Poland, travelling on regional trains from vibrant Warsaw to the ‘Venice of Poland’, Wroclaw and beyond. Poland is a country steeped in history, with intricate medieval and neoclassical architecture and underappreciated natural beauty. Journeys range from three to almost five hours, leaving plenty of time to gaze out the window at the parts of the country that are seldom seen.

Priced from USD $1949 / CAD $2,799 pp for 10 days, with departures from 26 September 2025.

Solo-ish China

On this 11-day adventure that’s been carefully crafted for solo travellers, the group will travel on China’s high-speed Bullet Train, whizzing from Shanghai to Yangzhou, Xi’an, Luoyang and Beijing. It’s a true cultural immersion – not just for the dumpling-making classes, strolls around archaeological treasures and time in the ‘Venice of Shanghai’, but for the mode of transport, traveling in smooth comfort at speeds of up to 350km/h and getting delicious local meals delivered right to every plush, padded seat.

Priced from USD 2399/CAD 3,269 pp for 10 days, with departures from 18 April 2025.

Back Roads of Japan

Criss-crossing the country on Japan’s world-famous high-speed Shinkansen bullet train is just one part of this 11-day Classic adventure. It’s also jam-packed with other cultural experiences, taking the group off the beaten path and away from the bigger cities and into community homestays in places like Hagi, a quaint farming and fishing town. On the Sea of Japan, there’s a visit to the Tottori Sand Dunes and fish market (home to some of Japan’s best crab) and a chance to learn the traditional art of "washi" paper making.

Priced from USD 4749/CAD 5,959 pp for 11 days, with departures from 19 April 2025.

Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets

This affordable 15-day trip geared to 18-to-Thirtysomethings showcases India's man-made wonders and natural marvels without missing its most famous cities and sights. On the morning train from Delhi to Agra, the group will take in small towns and arid terrain (while tucking into a local breakfast served at their seat). Meanwhile, on an eight-hour journey from Pushkar, the group will be fully immersed in local life, watching the comings and goings of passengers on the journey and traveling through the countryside before reaching the breathtaking lakes and Raj-era palaces of Udaipur. As for the rest of the trip? Think sunrise hikes, beach time, fort visits and more.

Priced from USD 1119/CAD 1,329 pp for 15 days, with departures from 13 May 2025.

Epic Vietnam: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City & Handmade Noodles

This 14-day wallet-friendly Roamies adventure squeezes in almost all of Vietnam, making the most of the country’s excellent hostel scene and its famous night trains, where the group will sleep in a four-berth soft sleeper – a compartment with two compact bunk beds. Aside from the three-night train journeys, other highlights include trips to night markets, a noodle-making class, time exploring the historic tunnels of the Vietnam War and time on palm-lined white-sand beaches.

Priced from USD 1099/CAD 1,399 pp for 17 days, with departures from 16 June 2025.

Highlights of Italy

This 9-day highlight-packed Classic adventure through Italy takes in the big cities of Rome, Florence and Venice, while also showing off plenty of Italian countryside and small towns, from the comfort of a local train. There’s a chance to taste world-renowned wines in Montepulciano, a tour of Rome through an immigrant’s eyes thanks to Migrantour, a G Adventures-supported social enterprise, plus time exploring the canals and backstreets of Venice. Plus, plenty of one-euro espressos at train stations to fuel the journey. (Pictured, top: Cinque Terre)

Priced from USD 2149/CAD 2,749 pp for 9 days, with departures from 19 October 2025.

Ask us for a full list of trips included in the Rail Collection!

About G Adventures

Founded in 1990 by social entrepreneur Bruce Poon Tip, G Adventures is the pioneer of community tourism and leader in small group travel, offering more than 850 life-changing trips in 100 countries on all seven continents.

G Adventures’ award-winning trips support communities, giving travelers meaningful exchanges with local people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, while offering them the freedom and flexibility to explore on their own. G Adventures’ responsible approach to travel is demonstrated through its ‘G for Good’ social impact commitments, which include travel guidelines for children, wildlife and Indigenous people.

The tour operator also has more than 130 community tourism projects built into its trips around the world, developed together with its non-profit partner, Planeterra, which was also founded by Bruce Poon Tip. In 2018, G Adventures was the first travel company to introduce an industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’ assessment which measures how many of a traveler’s dollars stay in the local economy, and in 2023 it announced its Trees for Days initiative which supports local environments and communities through tree-planting, with one tree per G Adventures’ traveler being planted per day.

*** Image courtesy of G Adventures

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

Argentina and Brazil Highlights with Contiki including Carnival

chieniel@travelagencytribes.com (Chieniel) — Fri, 13 Feb 26 18:35:51 +0000

Feb 07 - Feb 16 , 2026

The one that explores South America's dazzling duo in 10 days of adventures, adrenaline & sun-seeking.

Do catamarans over azure waters, lush white beaches, the rush of Iguassu Falls & buzz of Rio sound appealing to you? Mix this with cosmopolitan Buenos Aires & you’ve got the perfect combo of adventure, discovery & sun-seeking in 10 mesmerising days through Argentina and Brazil.

Days

10 days, 2 countries

Accommodation

9 nights in Hotels

Meals

9 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners

Transport

Coach, Mini-Van, Plane

Group Size

Maximum 30 people

Team

Expert Trip Manager, Driver Team, Local Guides

Starting from USD 4,285.00 per person based on twin-share.

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SPACE STILL AVAILABLE ON SELECT 2025 AND 2026

RIVERSIDE LUXURY CRUISES

RHINE AND DANUBE CHRISTMAS MARKET RIVER CRUISES

LET US HELP MAKE 2025 OR 2026 YOUR BEST HOLIDAY SEASON YET WITH A RIVERSIDE LUXURY CRUISE

Flexible Itineraries That Fit the Season

All-Inclusive, No-Stress Luxury

A Culinary Program That Rivals the Destinations

Iconic Markets, Intimate Moments

Spacious, Serene, and Designed for Fewer Guests

More About Riverside Luxury Cruises

AmaWaterways and Smithsonian Journeys Partner on Collection of River Cruises

BOOKING HAS OPENED ON THIS UNIQUE COLLECTION OF RIVER CRUISES

– ASK US MORE!

Riviera River Cruises Offers 50% Discount on 2026 Departures

More About Riviera River Cruises

AmaWaterways Expands Concierge Golf River Cruise Program to France

CAPACITY IS LIMITED; CONTACT US TODAY TO RESERVE YOUR GOLF RIVER CRUISE!

Where Will You Golf?

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Globus Unveils New North America Escorted Vacations for 2026

NEW Coastal California, Napa & the Central Valley (Small Group Discovery tour)

NEW Colorful Colorado: Peaks, Parks and Panoramas (Undiscovered tour)

NEW Winter in Montréal and Québec (Special Event tour)

America’s 250th Birthday

LET US HELP YOU PLAN A TRIP CLOSE TO HOME NEXT YEAR!

MORE ABOUT GLOBUS

G Adventures launches Rail Collection: 60 trips in 20 countries

More Benefits of Rail Travel

Highlights of Poland

Solo-ish China

Back Roads of Japan

Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets

Epic Vietnam: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City & Handmade Noodles

Highlights of Italy

About G Adventures

Argentina and Brazil Highlights with Contiki including Carnival

MORE ABOUT PONANT EXPLORATIONS

LET US HELP MAKE 2025 OR 2026 YOUR BEST HOLIDAY SEASON YET
WITH A RIVERSIDE LUXURY CRUISE