World Traveler Summer 2025 Issue

Spain Nayarit Oaxaca Playa del Carmen Malta Martinique Oklahoma Sri Lanka

LEISURE & LIFESTYLE TRAVEL MAGAZINE

W O R L D

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Summer 2025

Discovering

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Mexico

C o m e W i t h U s & S e e T h e W o r l d !

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Publisher

Michael Morcos

Editor-in-chief

Greg James

Contributing Editor

David J. Cox

Graphic Department

Al Cheong

Advertising Department

Leo Santini

Marketing Department

Tania Tassone

Distribution

Royce Dillon

Senior Travel Writers:

Susan Campbell

Judi Cohen

Steve Gillick

Nicholas Kontis

Olivia Liveng

Jennifer Merrick

Randy Mink

Contributors:

Mike Cohen

Natalie Ayotte

Daniel Smajovits

Lisa Sonne

Jasmine Morcos

Cherie DeLory

Glenn J. Nashen

Jessica Percy Campbell

Mathieu Morcos

Gregory Caltabanis

Anne-Marie Macloughlin

Alexandra Cohen

In this issue, we begin our worldwide adventure

in Japan with Oku Japan, where a

delightful hike sets the stage for exploration.

We also discover that Osaka is preparing to welcome

the world as it gears up for the World Expo.

Next, we cruise through the “Land of Two Smiles”

with CroisiEurope for an unforgettable Southeast

Asian journey. Still in the region, we explore

Indonesia’s diverse offerings with G Adventures.

Heading west, we experience “Exodus perfection”

in magnificent Sri Lanka. In Bhutan, we’re

immersed in deep cultural traditions, while

Armenia proves to be an exciting destination for

thrill-seekers. Further into Western Asia, we

uncover the best of Jordan, enjoy a restful

mini break in dazzling Dubai, and uncover

hidden gems in stunning Antalya,

Turkiye.

Over in Europe, we travel to the enchanting

island nation of Malta to explore its captivating

history and year-round festivals. In

Flanders, we explore the region’s five most visited

cities, while in Britain, Italy, and Spain we tour

some of the continent’s most popular and iconic

museums. In Galicia, we soak in incredible landscapes

and stargazing opportunities, staying in

historic and charming Paradores. From there, we

embark on a magnificent Viking cruise, sailing

from Barcelona to the majestic fjords of Norway.

Across the Atlantic in the Americas, we begin in

the historic city of Quebec, discovering top-tier

hotels and restaurants before setting off on a

Victory cruise across the Great Lakes. In the

USA, we head to beautiful New Hampshire,

uncover the best of Atlanta, and enjoy a funfilled

family getaway in Kissimmee, Florida.

Further west, we road trip along Oklahoma’s

iconic Route 66 and then discover the festivals

of Reno, Nevada.

In Mexico, we experience two extremes—starting

in tranquil Nayarit, moving through vibrant

Oaxaca, and ending with sunshine and surf in

Playa del Carmen—all while uncovering the

best the country has to offer. In Costa Rica, we

find idyllic escapes before heading to the

Caribbean nation of Antigua and

Barbuda for unforgettable, bucket-list

experiences. We even explore France in

the Caribbean with a visit to Martinique

and savor culinary delights in Aruba. In

South America, we venture into the jungles

of Guyana for unique lodge stays

and then on to Peru, exploring its treasures

with Explorandes.

In Africa, we journey with Lion World Travel on

extraordinary safari adventures. In South

Africa, we witness a joyful rebranding and

refreshing new energy.

Finally, down under in Australia, we check out

the latest travel highlights before wrapping up

our global tour with six spectacular cruise

adventures across five continents.

Happy travels, everyone!

Disclaimer: World Traveler has made every effort to verify

that the information provided in this publication is as accurate

as possible. However, we accept no responsibility for

any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone

resulting from the information contained herein nor for any

information provided by our advertisers.

Destination ( features)

Galicia 8 Malta 10 Nayarit 12

Oaxaca14 Playa del Carmen 16 Kissimmee, FL 86

Oklahoma’s Route 66, 88 Martinique 90 Sri Lanka 92

Around the World

18

Indonesia

Cruise Travel

52

Dsvjtf!Ofxt!- pages 54-55

Viking Jupiter Ocean Cruise - page 58

Tjy!Bewfouvspvt!Dsvjtft!- page 60

NTD!Dsvjtft!Sfwfbmt!Gjwf!Usfoet!Esjwjoh!Dibohft!- page 64

Victory II Returns to The Great Lakes - page 66

Tbjmjoh!uif!Mboe!pg!Uxp!Tnjmft!xjui!DspjtjFvspqf!- page 68

Bewfouvsf!Dbobeb!Boopvodft!Ofx!Wfttfmt!gps!3137!- page 70

Viking Ocean Ship in Iceland

Stay & Play

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Le Capitole Hôtel, Quebec City

8

Galicia: Where Time, Sea, and Spirit Collide

There’s something about Galicia that

immediately sets it apart from the rest

of Spain. Maybe it’s the mist that

drifts between its green hills, the way the

Atlantic crashes against its rugged coastline, or

how every village and stone church feels like

it’s holding a secret. On a recent trip to this

mystical northwestern corner of the Iberian

Peninsula, I journeyed through some of

Galicia’s most iconic and storied locations—

from ancient border towns to dramatic river

canyons, from medieval monasteries to the

windswept islands of a national park. What I

discovered was a region rooted in history and

nature, and full of the kind of quiet grandeur

that leaves an everlasting mark.

Stepping into the Past in Tui

My Galician adventure began in the town of

Tui, right on the border with Portugal. Tui was

once the provincial capital of the ancient

Kingdom of Galicia, and its history still lingers

Article and photography by Michael Morcos

in the narrow stone streets and weathered

façades. As I wandered through the old quarters,

I was struck by how the past lived so vividly

in the present. The highlight of the walking

tour was the Cathedral of Santa María,

perched atop a hill like a watchful guardian. Its

mixture of Romanesque and Gothic styles

reminded me of the town’s long-standing

importance and its once-central role in the

Christian reconquest of Iberia.

Into the Heart of Ribeira Sacra

From Tui, I journeyed inland to what might be

Galicia’s most majestic and spiritual region:

Ribeira Sacra. With its dramatic canyons

carved by the Miño and Sil Rivers, and its

dense concentration of Romanesque monasteries—seven

of the original eighteen still

standing—Ribeira Sacra is a living archive of

religious devotion and architectural beauty. As

I explored its terraced landscapes, I was

awestruck by the “socalcos,” steep vineyard

terraces carved by monks centuries ago, clinging

bravely to the canyon walls. This was heroic

viticulture at its most literal and poetic.

One of the most powerful moments of the trip

was visiting the Monastery of San Pedro de

Rocas, considered Galicia’s oldest, dating

back to the 6th century. Carved directly into the

rock face, the monastery felt more like a

sacred cave than a human structure. It was

humbling to walk where monks had lived,

prayed, and worked more than 1,400 years

ago.

A Canyon Cruise and Wine with a View

From San Pedro, I boarded a small boat for a

one-hour cruise through the deepest, most

awe-inspiring section of the Sil River Canyon.

Towering cliffs rose on either side of us—some

nearly 500 meters high—and the silence was

interrupted only by birdsong and the occasional

splash from the river. The raw natural beauty

here was staggering.

Our next stop was the Regina Viarum Winery,

perched on one of those impossible hillsides.

Touring the vineyards and cellars, I learned

how the extreme conditions and ancient ter-

www.worldtraveler.travel - Already 23 Years!

races give the wines their distinct character.

The tasting that followed was as spectacular as

the view—elegant reds and fresh whites that

reflected the soul of Ribeira Sacra.

From there, we drove to Pena do Castelo, a

viewpoint that offered one of the most breathtaking

scenes I’ve ever witnessed: vineyardcovered

slopes plunging into the river below,

framed by jagged peaks and soft clouds. It’s a

place that doesn’t just ask for your attention—

it demands your awe.

Celtic Hills and Atlantic Breezes

Heading back toward the coast, we stopped at

a windswept hill offering panoramic views of

the Rías Baixas, a network of estuaries that

define Galicia’s lower coastline. Here, we visited

a castro—an ancient Celtic settlement that

predates Roman conquest. Standing on those

ancient stones, looking out over the sea, I

could feel the pulse of Galicia’s pre-Roman

past still alive in the wind.

From there, we drove along the region’s most

rugged and scenic coastline en route to

Baiona. The road twisted and turned alongside

dramatic cliffs and crashing waves until we

arrived at this postcard-perfect fishing village.

Our walking tour took us through narrow

alleys and along the waterfront to the replica

of La Pinta, the ship that first brought word of

Columbus’ voyage to Europe in 1493. The

connection between Galicia and global history

felt surprisingly intimate in that moment.

Island Escape in a National Park

That afternoon brought us to the Atlantic

Islands of Galicia Maritime-Terrestrial National

Park, a protected archipelago that feels like a

world unto itself. After arriving on the North

Island, we hiked to the Pedra da Campá viewpoint.

The panoramic view was extraordinary—crystal-clear

waters, white sand beaches,

and endless sky. From there, we walked

down to Rodas Beach, which The was once

named the best beach in the world. I can confirm:

it lives up to the hype. Powdery sand,

calm turquoise water, and a sense of

untouched paradise.

Pontevedra and the Pulse of Galician Culture

Back on the mainland, in Pontevedra, one of

the most charming and pedestrian-friendly

cities I’ve visited in Spain. A walking tour of its

historic center revealed cobblestone plazas,

arcaded streets, and timeless architecture. A

stop at the Mercado de Abastos gave us an

insight into the local culinary soul—shellfish,

octopus, peppers, and cheeses all laid out in

vibrant abundance.

Flavors of the Rías Baixas

We continued our culinary exploration at Mar

de Frades Winery, located in the heart of the

Rías Baixas appellation. Famous for its albariño,

the winery offered a refreshing, oceankissed

take on white wine. A short transfer

brought us to Quinta de San Amaro, where we

joined chef Rocío Garrido for a cooking workshop.

She showed us how to prepare classic

Galician dishes with a modern touch, and our

lunch was paired beautifully with the very

wines we had just sampled.

Coastal Charm in Combarro

After lunch, we made our way to the village of

Combarro. Nestled along the northern shore

of the Pontevedra estuary, this tiny town is a

gem. Its granite houses, narrow lanes, and

hórreos—stone granaries perched on pillars—

create a tableau that feels timeless. Combarro

is a place where the connection between land

and sea is not just cultural but deeply spiritual.

The Pilgrim’s End in Santiago de Compostela

My journey concluded in Santiago de

Compostela, one of the most revered pilgrimage

destinations in the world. Standing before

its magnificent cathedral, I watched as weary

but elated pilgrims arrived from across Europe

to complete their Camino. Touring the

rooftops, the bustling squares, the Mercado de

Abastos, and the tranquil Alameda Park, I felt

the emotional gravity of the city.

Santiago is not just a final stop; it’s a celebration

of endurance, faith, and shared humanity.

Galicia: A Land That Stays With You

As I departed, I realized Galicia had worked its

quiet magic on me. This is a place that doesn’t

shout to be noticed—it whispers, draws you in,

and leaves you changed. Whether standing in

a rock-hewn monastery, sailing through a

canyon, sipping albariño on a vine-clad hill, or

gazing at pilgrims in Santiago, I felt closer to

the land, the past, and something eternal.

For travelers seeking authenticity, beauty, and

depth, Galicia is not just a destination—it’s a

revelation.

www.spain.info/en

9

World Traveler Summer 2025

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Article and photography by Steve Gillick

“You need to taste the destination". This

was the flavorsome advice from Marco

Valdivia, the affable Executive

Chef/Owner of Emiliano Restaurant in

Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico. "Eat the food that

local people eat in Nayarit". As a native of

the state, Marco added, "When I am preparing

dishes, I remember my culture and my

family," and he noted that "local" was the

watchword in Nayarit cooking: Red and

White wines and Tequila from Nayarit, fish

and seafood directly from the Pacific Ocean

off the coast, and vegetables, legumes, and

spices from the restaurant's own garden. As

a ripe-off-the-vine kitchen comment, Marco

revealed, "I knew this tomato before it was

even born!"

True to Marco's passion, it's no wonder that

Emiliano is amongst the top 120 restaurants

in the country, according to the Gaia México

Gastronomico. Our special dining menu

celebrated Gala Nayarit, the annual

tourism promotion for Riviera Nayarit and

Puerto Vallarta. Sumptuous dishes began

with the Amuse Bouche of Crab meatballs

and Morita chili Mayonnaise, followed by

Aguachile, kissed with jalapeno and plantain,

under a shrimp, pineapple, and ginger

sauce. The dish was prepared by Chef

Salvador Munoz Miralrio from Vayami

Restaurant in Tepic and had won 'Innovative

Dish of the Year' in the category of 'Nayarit's

Avant-Garde Flavor' at the 2024 México

Desconocido Awards. He explained that

"the best way to understand Nayarit is to

savor the flavors, and the best way to understand

the history and culture of Nayarit is to

speak to locals in the towns and villages", a

sentiment echoed by Chef Angel Alvarez of

Magic Gourmet when he said, "people who

eat local ingredients want to return to the

destination because they feel it's safe and

comfortable".

Our repast at Emeliano continued with

Acaponeta pork taco (named after the

Nayarit town), an exceptional main course

of Zarandeado sea bass (a traditional

method of grilling fish that originated in

Nayarit), and an addictive dessert: A cottage

cheese tart with a pumpkin seed cookie,

garnished with green mango cajeta and

mezcal ice cream.


In another conversation, vintner Gilberto

Gangoiti Vermudez waxed enthusiastic

about Nayarit wines, including the delicious

2023 Syrah, a Silver Award winner from

Vino Meseta del Cielo. Gilberto recounted

that Nayarit started making fruit wines (passion

fruit, hibiscus, etc.) ten years ago but

was now producing noteworthy Malbec,

Grenache, Shiraz, Syrah, Macabeo, Merlot,

and Pinot Noir.

Tepic, a city founded in 1531, is the capital

of Nayarit State. At sunrise and sunset, the

red glow of the surrounding Sierra Madre

Occidental Mountains can be spellbinding.

We stayed at the 4-Star Hotel Fray Junipero

Serra in Centro Historico. To our left was the

Main Square, with historical statues and

monuments, food vendors, and shady trees

resonating with the "kwirr-kwirr" calls of Gila

Woodpeckers. Directly across the road was

the 19th-century Neo-Gothic Immaculate

Conception Cathedral.

Further north was the dramatic CAIN structure

- The City of Indigenous Arts of Nayarit

- designed by Estudio MMX. The Gallery

supports the artistic traditions of the Cora,

Huichol, Tepehuan, and Nahuatl-speaking

Mexicaneros communities. CAIN lies beside

the Mololoa River, a tributary of the Rio

Grande de Santiago. Morning postcardperfect

scenery showcases lush greenery,

distant misty mountains, and an impressive

variety of bird species, including Egrets,

Great Kiskadees, Tropical Kingbirds, and

flocks of Black-necked Stilts.

A short walk south of the hotel, past the

bright pink colonial building housing the

Regional Museum of Nayarit, leads to the

Tepic city sign with the picturesque Palacio

de Gobierno and the mountains as a backdrop.

Bellavista is a quiet Tepic neighborhood of

cobblestone streets, wall murals depicting

historical scenes, and the 19th-century textile

factory building. Around the corner is

Los Telares de Bellavista restaurant, with a

colorful crafts display. Breakfast featured a

delectable Shrimp and Cheese omelet with

Frijole, Salad, Salsa, and rich-tasting

Arabica coffee from the municipality of

Xalisco.

About one-hour southeast of Tepic lies Ixtlán

del Rio, one of Nayarit's nine Magical

Towns. "Ixtlán" is a Nahuatl word meaning

'the place where obsidian abounds'. The

archeological site of Los Toriles, just outside

of the town center, is one of Mexico's most

significant historical venues. It dates back to

the pre-Columbian settlement of the Cora

people, also known as Náayari, from which

"Nayarit" is derived.

The once-fertile valley rested under a big

sky surrounded by volcanic mountains, and

in this mystical setting that highlighted the

connection between the earth and the sky,

the agrarian population was witness to the

activities of the gods. The site is associated

with the birth of the Aztec culture through

the unification of seven indigenous groups

by the god Quetzalcoatl.

The circular building known as "Ehécatl-

Quetzalcóatl" stands out amongst the alters,

stairs, and plazas. The name honored the

importance and role of the wind god, who

brought rain, affected weather, and symbolized

life and death. 'Cross' shapes around

the building represented the four cardinal

directions (North, South, East, and West)

and the four elements (Earth, Water, Air,

and Fire) with which Ehécatl was associated.

The Spring Solstice Ceremony sees about

1000 visitors honoring the culture and traditions

of Los Toriles.

After our tour in the hot sun, a visit to the

Quinta Ruiz ice cream shop in the town of

Ixtlán del Río was refreshing. Here, the

chilled sweet flavors of vanilla, lemon,

strawberry, and mango are traditionally

made by hand-churning the mixture in a

bowl inside a wooden barrel.

But even more revitalizing was a visit to

Casa Real de Ixtlán, one of Nayarit's premier

Tequila producers. Oscar Degadillo,

the Director General, gave us a tour of the

Agave fields, the cooking, milling, fermentation,

distillation, and storage facilities…

and a formal tasting of the three varieties:

Reposado, Cristalino, and Plata.

We followed the Tequila-sensory protocol of

1) visual validation of the clarity of the

Tequila. 2) tipping the glass to confirm that

11

the tears fell within six seconds. 3) using the

nose to determine the aroma; the scent of

agave, green grass, citrus, chocolate, and

more, and 4) experiencing the taste by taking

a small sip to rinse the mouth, then a

second sip, relax, breathe in, breathe out…

and smile!

And the happiness spread along the route to

Compostela, another captivating Magical

Town. The name translates as "field of stars"

and is associated with the legend of Saint

James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.

The town has a beautiful central plaza displaying

red, pink, and orange

Bougainvillea, palm trees, a kiosk with the

municipality's history vividly painted on the

inside of the dome, the historic Parish

Church of Santiago Apostol, and the

dynamic equestrian statue of St. James.

Nearby, a lively market sells fruits, vegetables,

and meat on the first floor, with gorditas,

tacos, burritos, and other street foods

for sale upstairs. Aside from tourism, the

town boasts three main activities: coffee

(there are more than 155 producers nearby),

leather (shops line the main street), and

a history dating back to 1532.

Each visit to Nayarit provides visitors with

fascinating insights into history, culture, people,

food, attractions, and nature. This is the

perfect opportunity to savor the flavors of

Nayarit and plant the desire to return.

www.rivieranayarit.com


Misty Mountains: The Ethnic Allure of Oaxaca

Article and photography by Nicholas Kontis


Ashort flight southeast of Mexico City,

the state of Oaxaca holds a mysterious

allure for those who travel

Latin America. Its culturally rich tapestry may

be little more than a blip on the radar of

those who seek glitzy beach resorts at

Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta.

However, for those seeking authenticity,

Oaxaca has no rival. Twenty separate ethnic

groups make their home in the state, and a

full third of the population speaks an indigenous

dialect.

A drive of fewer than three hours from

Oaxaca City, the state capital, are the Sierra

Mixe highlands, a region of small villages

linked by well-trodden trails, rarely visited by

outsiders. Here, travelers may interact with

the land’s original inhabitants, affording

them a brief glimpse of their traditional way

of life. It is a life-changing experience.

I joined tour guide Uriel Alcantara, owner of

the Oaxaca-based Raiz Ayuuk agency, on a

three-day Misty Mountain Hop. “The Mixe

people are heirs to the Olmec culture, the

‘mother’ of our pre-Hispanic civilizations,”

Alcantara said. “This journey is a unique

opportunity to genuinely connect with the

oldest living roots of our ancestral heritage.”

From village to village

The trip began with visits to the villages of

San Pedro and San Pablo Ayutla, where local

chef Regina Domínguez and her daughter,

Julys, prepared a traditional dish of machucado.

Families enjoy this Mixe ritual meal of

cooked corn dough, accompanied by pepita

(pumkin) sauce and chilies, to ward off

hunger and bond around the breakfast

table.

Native artisans extensively utilize the myriad

types of clay found throughout the Sierra

Mixe, a direct result of the region's varied

weather patterns. “We have many microclimates

in our region,” said Silvia Martinez, a

celebrated ceramicist. “As clay needs to heat,

cure and bake, it can take days to weeks to

complete our pieces.” At her workshop in the

community of Tlahuitoltepec (“Tlahui”), we

learned about the exquisite clay traditions of

the Sierra.

At the workshop studio of ArteFer, we met

master weaver and natural dyer Fernando

Gutiérrez. Working alongside his wife, Paula,

and their children, Xapaa and Rodrigo,

Gutiérrez uses locally sourced palo de aguila

(alder wood) tree bark in his garments. He

explained the dyeing, loom-weaving and

embroidery he uses to create colorful traditional

and contemporary blouses, dresses,

scarves, and shawls.

On Day Two of our expedition, we climbed

the Mixes’ sacred Zempoaltépetl Mountain,

“Ipx Yukp” in their language. Accompanied

by the mountain’s Santa Maria Yacochi

guardians, it took our party of 12 just under

four hours to reach the 3,500-meter

(11,483-foot) summit. There, we participated

in an ancestral ceremony to underscore

the connection between man and nature as

we asked for help and gave thanks.

On our final day, we visited Santa María

Huitepec, where we had breakfast with

Juanita Elizondo, an esteemed traditional

healer, midwife, and temazcal (sweat lodge)

practitioner. Then, we followed an interpretive

trail past the community orchidarium to

a swimming hole beneath a waterfall. En

route, we passed through the ruins of the old

town, which was evacuated in 1973 after

intense rains followed an earthquake. The

school, prison, and old church may still be

seen.

We had freshly caught trout at El Buen

Paladar restaurant at the Los Cedros farm,

run by Sofía and Joel Jiménez. We then

returned for one last overnight stay at Ayutla,

where we sat around a campfire and

enjoyed delicious Italian pizza with a touch

of Oaxacan flavor: chapulines (toasted

grasshoppers) and al pastor (spit-grilled

pork).

Oaxaca City

Back in Oaxaca City, the state capital, the

21st Century still seemed far away. Flaunting

far more than its pretty churches, this

Mexican enclave rivals any colonial destination

in Latin America. Its refined Zocalo, the

city’s central gathering plaza for 500 years,

is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Beginning here, in the historical hub

of downtown, one cannot help but be

13

mesmerized by the treasure trove of

sites and places to explore. There are clandestine

streets with painted murals, palatial

churches, fashionable art galleries, massive

markets selling all manner of artisanal products,

an underrated but vibrant nightlife,

rooftop bars—and mezcalerias.

Oaxaca has more varieties of mezcal than

any other region in Mexico. Its smoky agave

flavor is unforgettable. Additionally, Oaxaca

is renowned as the chocolate capital of

Mexico, and chocolatiers seem to be on

every street corner. Chocolate is also a typical

ingredient in the state’s complex mole

sauce. Even Oaxacan coffee is aromatic. For

another glimpse into Oaxacan gastronomy

and culture, Etnofood offers food classes and

tours. These include mezcal tasting sessions,

mole workshops, coffee tastings, vegan

cooking classes, and chocolate shop tours.

Visitors can join a gastronomic tour by electric

bike through the city's streets or walk to a

local produce market to purchase ingredients

for a salsa-making class.

With luck, you may encounter a calenda. A

traditional celebration such as a boda (wedding)

is highlighted by a pulsating afternoon

parade through the streets of Oaxaca, with

gigantic papier-mâché dancers mimicking

the bride and groom. The all-inclusive event

allows visitors to mingle with locals in a carnival

setting.

And those who happen to be in Oaxaca in

mid-autumn may want to stay for Dia de los

Muertos (Day of the Dead), Mexico’s most

prominent and uniquely soulful festival.

Where to stay? In the heart of Oaxaca,

Parador de San Miguel, operated by the

Tesoros Hotel group, is a flawless, colonialstyle

boutique hotel located just three blocks

from the Zocalo and the central market.

Each colorful room is designed in traditional

style. A small garden and rooftop terrace

add charm. The lobby restaurant, El

Andariego, serves a variety of tasty Mexican

dishes.

www.visit-mexico.mx/oaxaca/


14

Living the Life of Leisure in Palmy, Balmy Playa del Carmen

by Randy Mink

Serenaded by the swoosh of rustling

coconut palms and Caribbean

waters lapping the powdery white

beach, I was easily drifting into nap time nirvana

under the thatched-roof palapa sheltering

me from the hot sun. Securely

ensconced in a deluxe resort on Mexico’s

Riviera Maya, I had not a care in the world.

Though I had visited the Mexican Caribbean

on a cruise, this was my first hotel stay in the

region, and I was thrilled to have more than

the usual six or eight hours ashore that

cruise vacations allow. This also was my first

time at an all-inclusive resort. With lots of

restaurant, bar and activity options in one

easy-to-navigate space, it reminded me of a

cruise ship.

Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula, Riviera

Maya occupies the coastal area south of

Cancun, the biggest resort destination in all

the Caribbean. While Riviera Maya has the

same spectacular beaches and aquamarine

waters as Cancun, this stretch of paradise is

more laid-back and less Americanized,

though it is growing rapidly in popularity

and population. Playa del Carmen is a 45-

minute drive from Cancun International

Airport.

Playa del Carmen, a city with more than

150,000 residents, has Riviera Maya’s

largest selection of hotels, restaurants,

shops and nightlife. My group’s tropical

oasis, a 10-minute taxi ride from the commercial

core, was Secrets Moxche Playa del

Carmen, part of the Hyatt Inclusive

Collection. Located within the gated residential

community of Corasol, Secrets is the

sole AAA Five-Diamond adults-only resort

in Playa del Carmen.

Our trip, which included flights from various

U.S. cities, was packaged by ALG Vacations.

A member of the Hyatt family, the tour operator

specializes in Mexico and the

Caribbean. It works with travel advisors who

sell trips from its portfolio of brands, including

Apple Vacations, Funjet Vacations,

Travel Impressions, Southwest Vacations,

Blue Sky Tours and United Vacations.

Sampling Playa del Carmen

I would have been perfectly content spending

my week on property at Secrets Moxche,

but the travel itch prompted me to explore

outside its posh confines. One outing took

me to Playa del Carmen’s main tourist drag,

Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a pedestrian

street thick with eateries, bars, smart boutiques,

souvenir shops, and, as typically

found in Mexican tourist towns, drug stores


selling pharmaceutical products at big discounts.

On my shopping excursion, I picked

up a used Mexico license plate for my collection

and a bottle of vanilla. The colorfully

painted ceramics and floppy sombreros

were tempting, but I held back.

On my day in town, I happened to be wearing

a Manchester United jersey. That turned

out to be a mistake, as I was hounded by

merchants selling sports team items, including

wooden masks and woven goods bearing

the British soccer team’s red-and-yellow

logo. Some shopkeepers on and around

Quinta Avenida were a bit aggressive but

not too annoying overall.

Just off Quinta Avenida, a side street led me

to a palm-shaded beach. From there I spotted

the dock where ferries depart for the

island of Cozumel, a half-hour ride away.

On another lane leading to the ocean, I

found the Frida Kahlo Museum. The famous

Mexican artist has no connection to Playa

del Carmen and no original works are displayed,

but my Mexico guidebook said it

was worth seeing for the copies of Kahlo’s

paintings and exhibits chronicling her

tumultuous life. I didn’t have time to go in

but did get some good pictures of murals

outside the museum.

Yucatan Excursions from Secrets Moxche Resort

One day our group at Secrets Moxche split

up into three half-day excursions organized

by Amstar, a tour/transportation company

under the Hyatt umbrella. Being a history

buff, I chose to visit the Mayan ruins of

Tulum, an archaeological zone about an

hour south of Playa del Carmen.

Dramatically perched on a cliff overlooking

the Caribbean Sea, the walled city of Tulum

thrived as a fort and trading post between

the 12th and 16th centuries. Abandoned for

three centuries, the site was overgrown with

vegetation when discovered by the Spanish

in the 1840s. Now it is thronged daily by

visitors from resorts and cruise ships who

brave the intense heat as their guides talk

about how the Maya sacrificed human

hearts at El Castillo, or “The Castle,” the big

limestone temple to the gods and goddesses.

Many of us were captivated by the iguanas

scurrying around the ruins. Best known

for its setting high above turquoise waters,

Tulum is the only Mayan archaeological site

commanding a coastal location.

Another contingent opted for Amstar’s catamaran

sailing adventure, which featured

snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs,

stand-up paddle boarding and relaxing on

deck, along with snacks, cocktails and

lunch.

The most adventurous group chose to go

swimming and snorkeling in one of Riviera

Maya’s many cenotes, freshwater limestone

sinkholes fed by a vast underground river

system below the Mayan jungle. They navigated

through the cave’s stalactites, stalagmites

and other rock formations. The ecoexcursion

also included snorkeling in a

lagoon teeming with colorful fish.

Xcaret: Ecological Theme Park

Xcaret, a mega eco-park just a few miles

from Playa del Carmen, may be touristy, but

it’s also educational and thoroughly entertaining.

Guests can go snorkeling or tubing

in underground rivers, swim with dolphins,

tour a museum of Mexican folk art, visit a

replica Maya village and attend an evening

folkloric extravaganza. Animal viewing

areas include the butterfly pavilion, coral

reef aquarium, and a jaguar and puma

habitat, plus one of the world’s largest

aviaries. You can easily spend a full day at

Xcaret (pronounced “ish-cah-ret”).

Guests of the arts-centric, 900-suite Hotel

Xcaret Arte have unlimited access to the

eco-park. The all-inclusive, adults-only luxury

haven, loaded with water features and

strongly committed to sustainability, consists

of five buildings attached by bridges and

has 10 restaurants. Murals, sculptures and

other artworks throughout the property

immerse guests in a culture of creativity, as

do workshops in music/dance, painting,

pottery and textiles.

Secrets Moxche: Slice of Paradise

I don’t know what I liked best about Secrets

Moxche. Was it the choice of 11 dining

options and eight bars? Or the

15

eight pools in addition to the beach?

The swim-up bars were certainly fun, and

one pool had hammocks slung over the

water. Many in my group received pampering

treatments in the resort’s world-class

Spa by Pevonia.

All these pleasures were just an elevator ride

from my seventh-floor suite, which overlooked

a courtyard threaded by stone pathways

and landscaped with lush foliage—

palms, palmettos, bamboo, sea grapes,

banana plants and flowering trees.

Those seeking activity at Secrets Moxche can

take out a kayak, paddleboard or sailboat,

play tennis or beach volleyball, or make use

of their privileges at nearby golf courses.

In the Moxche Theater, we enjoyed shows

that blended circus thrills, rock music and

special effects. At Dark Horse Tavern, a

sports bar with large-screen TVs, a golf simulator,

billiards and foosball, we attended

some wild karaoke sessions. One night a

few of us were brave enough to get up and

sing “Rhinestone Cowboy.” Gypsy, a secret

speakeasy dance club with a daily changing

password and hidden entrance, attracted

late-night revelers.

At the adjacent sister property, Impression

Moxche by Secrets, discerning guests enjoy

a more personalized experience, with

upgraded suites, butler service and access

to 14 dining venues, including three exclusive

Impression restaurants.

Besides Secrets’ wealth of choices and allinclusive

model, we appreciated the cheerful

service and smiling faces. Staff members

were as warm as the hotel’s bathwater

pools, as glowing as the Mexican sun.

For more on Secrets Moxche Playa del

Carmen, see page 72.

www.mexicancaribbean.travel

www.traveladvisorsgetyouthere.com

(ALG Vacations)


16

Malta’s Living History

From the moment I set foot on Malta, I

knew I had arrived somewhere extraordinary.

The warm, honey-colored stone

of the buildings gleamed beneath the

Mediterranean sun, and the breeze carried

hints of sea salt and sage. Though small in size,

Malta’s history is monumental, shaped by an

astonishing array of civilizations—from

Neolithic peoples to the Order of the Knights of

St. John. As I would discover over my journey,

this island is not merely a destination; it’s a living

chronicle of the ancient world, lovingly preserved

and vibrantly alive.

The Echoes of Time

Malta’s strategic location in the center of the

Mediterranean made it a coveted prize for

countless empires. The Phoenicians, Romans,

Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, and even

Napoleon’s French forces have all left their

mark here. Yet, perhaps no group shaped

Malta more dramatically than the Knights of St.

John.


Granted the island in 1530, these warrior

monks arrived after being expelled from

Rhodes. Their presence transformed Malta into

a fortress of Christian Europe, especially during

the heroic Great Siege of 1565 when they fended

off the Ottoman Empire. Today, their architectural

legacy remains proudly on display in

bastions, palaces, and cathedrals—none more

beautiful than those in Valletta, the capital they

built from scratch.

Temples and Megalithic Marvels

I began my exploration far before the Knights,

diving into Malta’s prehistoric past with visits to

the Tarxien Temples and Borgin-Nadur. The

Tarxien complex, dating back over 5,000 years,

is a labyrinth of altars, curved walls, and intricate

carvings. These ancient stones speak of a

sophisticated culture whose religion and rituals

still baffle archaeologists. Nearby, at Borg in-

Nadur, set against sweeping coastal views, the

remains of Bronze Age fortifications whispered

of early attempts to defend this fertile island.

Faith, Fortresses, and Footsteps Through Time

Next, I headed to Rabat for a walking tour that

felt like time travel. I wandered through quiet

alleyways framed by noble townhouses and

paused at St. Paul’s Basilica, set within what

was once Citta Melite, the Roman administrative

center of the island. Nearby, St. Paul’s

Catacombs and St. Paul’s Grotto gave a haunting

insight into early Christian Malta. These

underground burial sites and the small cave

where Paul reportedly preached following his

shipwreck here made for a humbling visit.

A short walk took me into Mdina, the former

capital of Malta and one of the most magical

places I’ve ever experienced. Known as the

“Silent City,” Mdina is cloaked in a reverent

calm that enhances its architectural beauty. I

stood in awe at St. Paul’s Cathedral, its elegant

Baroque façade a perfect counterpoint to the

medieval stone all around. The view from the

bastion walls stretched to the sea, offering a

glimpse into why so many have fought to control

this island.

Of Wine and Honey: Malta’s Rich Terroir

I ventured to Ta’ Qali for a wine tasting at

Meridiana Wine Estate. Their award-winning

vintages, particularly the velvety Nexus Merlot

and the crisp Isis Chardonnay, were exceptional.

As I sipped and chatted with the vintners, I


felt the deep pride Maltese people have for

their land and craft.

Later, I joined a hands-on honey harvesting

session with Golden Island Honey Producers,

and it was every bit as sweet as it sounds. Clad

in a beekeeping suit, I helped extract golden

nectar straight from the comb, learning how

native flora influences each batch’s flavor.

Tasting honey infused with thyme, carob, and

wildflowers was a sensory journey in itself.

Fortresses and Faith on the Grand Harbour

The fortified city of Birgu, one of the Three

Cities, is home to the impressive Church of St.

Lawrence, where the Knights first worshipped.

Its interior was a masterpiece of gilded detail

and reverent silence. I followed the shoreline to

Fort St. Angelo, once the seat of Grand Masters

and a bulwark during the Great Siege. Its thick

walls and panoramic views over the Grand

Harbour brought to life the high-stakes drama

that once played out here.

Lunch at Don Berto, right by the water, was the

perfect interlude. I savored fresh seabass and

caponata, washed down with a glass of Maltese

rosé as traditional luzzu boats bobbed in the

harbor.

From Olive Groves to Red Towers

In the countryside, I explored the serene Ta’

Xmun Olive Grove, where I learned about

Malta’s ancient olive oil production methods.

The grove, with its gnarled trees and rustic

stone walls, felt like a sacred space. The oil I

sampled here was robust and peppery, a testament

to Malta’s resilient soil.

Further north, St. Agatha’s Tower, affectionately

called the Red Tower, stood sentinel over

Melliea Bay. This 17th-century fortress offered

panoramic views of both Malta and Gozo, and

its bold color and strategic location made it a

photographer’s dream.

Gozo: Rural Bliss and Timeless Charm

I spent a peaceful day on Gozo, Malta’s smaller

sister island. In Victoria, also called Rabat, I

explored the towering Citadel, a medieval

fortress that seemed to hover above the town.

Its winding streets, museums, and bastion walks

offered a quiet contrast to Malta’s hustle.

At Qala Belvedere Point, I stood and absorbed

the sweeping views of the channel between the

islands, the sun dancing off aquamarine

waters. Gozo, with its slower pace and rolling

hills, felt like the soul of Malta—rural, rooted,

and radiant.

Valletta: Malta’s Crown Jewel

Back in Valletta, the city of the Knights, I set out

to see its iconic landmarks. At the Upper

Barrakka Gardens, I enjoyed views of the

Grand Harbour while the midday cannon salute

echoed across the bay. It was an elegant introduction

to the capital.

Inside St. John’s Co-Cathedral, I found one of

the most astonishing churches I’ve ever visited.

The floor, inlaid with marble tombstones of

knights, the richly gilded interior, and

Caravaggio’s dramatic Beheading of Saint

John left me speechless.

Lunch at Caffe Cordina, a Valletta institution,

included pastizzi and a strong espresso while

watching the world go by in Republic Square.

Later, I visited Fort St. Elmo, home to the

National War Museum, which brought Malta’s

turbulent 20th-century history vividly to life.

For dinner, I indulged in modern Maltese cuisine

at 59 Republic, where seasonal local ingredients

were transformed into artful plates. Each

course, from octopus carpaccio to rabbit-stuffed

ravioli, celebrated tradition with a contemporary

twist.

Home Away From Home

My stay at Talbot & Bons Boutique Bed &

Breakfast, nestled near the airport yet delightfully

quiet, was the perfect home base. The

hosts were gracious, the rooms charming, and

the breakfast—complete with local jams and

fresh pastries—was the perfect send-off each

morning.

Final Reflections

As my time in Malta came to an end, I looked

back on a journey that had taken me through

temples older than the pyramids, streets once

walked by Roman governors and crusading

knights, and landscapes shaped by millennia of

human endeavor. Malta is a place where past

and present hold hands tightly—where every

stone tells a story, and every meal, viewpoint,

and handshake reveals a piece of its enduring

soul.

I left with a heavy heart but a renewed spirit,

knowing that Malta, with all its beauty and

bravery, had gifted me something unforgettable.

It is a place I will cherish forever—and

most certainly return to.

www.visitmalta.com

17


Australasia Antarctica Africa North America South America Asia Europe

Around the World!)jo!45!qbhft*

The British Museum

Great Britain’s Five Most Visited Museums

Great Britain is home to some of the world’s most renowned

museums, attracting millions of visitors each year. Whether

you’re fascinated by ancient artifacts, iconic artworks, or natural

wonders, these five museums are the most visited in the country—and for

good reason.

1. The British Museum (London)

With over six million visitors annually, the British Museum is Britain’s most

visited museum. It houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts from

around the world, including the Rosetta Stone, the Elgin Marbles, and

Egyptian mummies. Offering a deep dive into global history, it’s a mustvisit

for culture enthusiasts.

2. The Tate Modern (London)

As the most visited modern art museum in Britain, the Tate Modern welcomes

around five million visitors per year. Housed in a striking former

power station on the banks of the Thames, it features works by Picasso,

Warhol, Dalí, and Hockney. The museum’s massive Turbine Hall installations

are a major draw for contemporary art lovers.

3. The National Gallery (London)

Located in Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery sees over four million

visitors annually. Home to more than 2,300 paintings, it showcases masterpieces

by Van Gogh, da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Turner. Van Gogh’s

Sunflowers remains one of its most famous attractions.

4. The Natural History Museum (London)

With its iconic Victorian architecture and world-famous exhibits, the

Natural History Museum attracts over four million visitors per year.

Highlights include the dinosaur skeletons, the legendary Dippy the

Diplodocus, and the awe-inspiring blue whale model in the Hintze Hall.

5. The Science Museum (London)

Welcoming around three million visitors annually, the Science Museum is

one of Britain’s most interactive and engaging museums. It features handson

exhibits, historic steam engines, early spacecraft, and the fascinating

Apollo 10 command module, making it a favorite among families and science

lovers.

These five museums stand as Britain’s most visited cultural landmarks,

offering something for everyone—from ancient history to futuristic innovations.

Best of all, they’re free to enter, making them accessible to all travelers.

www.visitbritain.com


Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao

Exploring Italy’s Greatest Museums

Art, History, and Culture Unveiled

Italy, a country synonymous with art, history, and culture, is home to

some of the world’s finest museums. Whether you’re an art lover, a

history buff, or simply an admirer of beauty, these museums offer a

glimpse into Italy’s rich past and artistic legacy.

1. The Uffizi Gallery (Florence)

The Uffizi Gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. This Renaissance-era

museum houses masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli,

Michelangelo, and Caravaggio. The most famous work here is Botticelli’s

The Birth of Venus, an iconic representation of Italian art. Other highlights

include Titian’s Venus of Urbino and Leonardo’s Annunciation, making it

a paradise for art lovers.

2. The Vatican Museums (Vatican City, Rome)

A visit to Rome is incomplete without exploring the Vatican Museums,

home to an unparalleled collection of art and history. The highlight is the

Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes leave visitors in awe.

Other treasures include the Raphael Rooms, the stunning Gallery of Maps,

and the vast collection of classical sculptures from ancient Rome and

Greece.

3. The Accademia Gallery (Florence)

Famous for Michelangelo’s David, the Accademia Gallery is a pilgrimage

site for art lovers. In addition to this magnificent sculpture, the museum

houses works by Giotto and Botticelli, as well as Michelangelo’s unfinished

Prisoners, which provide insight into his sculpting process.

4. The Borghese Gallery (Rome)

The Borghese Gallery is a gem nestled within Villa Borghese gardens. It

showcases Bernini’s breathtaking sculptures, including Apollo and

Daphne, as well as paintings by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian. The

museum’s intimate setting enhances the experience, allowing visitors to

admire the works up close.

5. The Egyptian Museum (Turin)

Italy isn’t just about Renaissance art. The Egyptian Museum in Turin boasts

one of the world’s most extensive collections of Egyptian artifacts, including

mummies, papyri, and statues. It’s a must-see for history lovers and one

of the best places in Europe to explore ancient Egyptian culture.

From Renaissance masterpieces to ancient treasures, Italy’s museums offer

an unforgettable cultural experience, bringing history and art to life in a

way that few places in the world can match.

https://www.italia.it/en

Spain’s 5 Must-Visit Museums for

Art and History Lovers

Spain is home to some of the world’s most remarkable

museums, drawing millions of visitors each year. Whether

you’re a fan of classical masterpieces, modern art, or rich

historical artifacts, these five institutions offer an unforgettable

cultural experience.

1. The Prado Museum (Madrid) - As Spain’s most famous museum,

the Prado Museum in Madrid is a treasure trove of European

art. With works by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco, the museum

showcases Spain’s rich artistic heritage. A must-see is Las

Meninas by Velázquez, a masterpiece that continues to captivate

art lovers worldwide.

2. Reina Sofía Museum (Madrid) A short distance from the Prado,

the Reina Sofía Museum is Spain’s premier modern art institution.

It is best known for housing Pablo Picasso’s Guernica, a powerful

anti-war painting that draws thousands of visitors. The museum

also features works by Dalí, Miró, and other surrealist artists,

offering a striking contrast to the Prado’s classical collection.

3. Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum (Madrid) - Completing Madrid’s

“Golden Triangle of Art,” the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum offers

a diverse collection spanning the Renaissance to contemporary

art. It’s the perfect complement to the Prado and Reina Sofía, featuring

masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and Caravaggio.

4. Guggenheim Museum (Bilbao) - Designed by Frank Gehry, the

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is an architectural marvel that revolutionized

the city. This contemporary art museum houses cutting-edge

exhibitions from international artists. The museum’s

exterior, with its undulating titanium curves, is as mesmerizing as

the art inside.

5. Picasso Museum (Barcelona) - For an in-depth look at Picasso’s

early years, the Picasso Museum in Barcelona is a must-visit.

Located in a stunning Gothic building, it boasts over 4,000 of the

artist’s works, tracing his journey from realism to cubism. It’s a

fascinating exploration of one of the 20th century’s greatest

artists.

Whether you’re in Madrid, Barcelona, or Bilbao, these five museums

offer a deep dive into Spain’s artistic and cultural legacy.

Each one is a masterpiece in its own right, waiting to be explored.

www.spain.info


20

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Great Travel Gear and Gadgets

Our travel specialists review the best travel gear and gadgets to get you on the go better


Exodus Adventure Travels Unveils New Tours for 2026

Small-group tours span across the globe with immersive cultural, wildlife, and active travel experiences

Vietnam Highlights

From Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Ho Chi Minh

City’s buzzing markets, this tour blends culture

and adventure. Travelers explore Halong Bay

by boat, cycle quiet country roads, and visit

UNESCO towns like Hoi An, all while sampling

the country’s incredible cuisine.

Best of Sri Lanka

From leopard safaris in Yala National Park to

the sacred city of Kandy and hill country tea

trails, this all-in-one tour covers the best of Sri

Lanka’s diverse landscapes and culture, with

time to unwind on the coast.

Exodus Adventure Travels, the leader

in active small group guided tours,

announces its new tours with departures

starting in 2026, with immersive experiences

across Asia, Africa, the Americas,

Europe, and the Middle East. From hiking

Oman’s golden dunes to cycling South Africa’s

legendary Garden Route, the new itineraries

available to book now reflect travelers’ growing

desire for deeper, more meaningful exploration—whether

on two wheels or two feet.

Backed by research and traveler feedback,

Exodus’ latest lineup responds to increasing

demand for active travel experiences in

nature-rich and culturally authentic destinations.

Exodus’ latest trips are designed to bring

travelers beyond the guidebook while enjoying

the ease of small-group travel, led by expert

local guides. The new tours include first-time

itineraries in Colombia, Guatemala, and Laos,

plus upgraded safaris and premium adventures

in Africa and Central America.

New Departures for 2026:

Asia - Culture, Cuisine & Mountain Treks

Discover Laos in Comfort

This gentle-paced cultural tour journeys from

Vientiane to Luang Prabang, showcasing golden

temples, riverside villages, and the spiritual

heart of Laos. River cruises, local markets, and

time with local artisans offer a rich, immersive

experience.

Oman Desert Odyssey

Trek through rugged canyons, explore ancient

forts, and camp beneath the stars in Wahiba

Sands. This journey offers a blend of natural

wonders and Bedouin hospitality, with time in

Muscat and traditional villages along the way.

Africa - Big Five Safaris and Scenic Cycling

Tanzania Safari Adventure

Witness the Great Migration and spot lions,

elephants, and giraffes on game drives

through the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

Cultural visits with the Maasai and expert-led

wildlife tracking make this East African safari

unforgettable.

Kruger Safari Highlights & Garden Route Cycling

Pair Big Five safaris in Kruger National Park

with a bucket-list cycling journey along South

Africa’s southern coast. Ride past vineyards,

whales, and dramatic cliffs while staying in

comfortable accommodations throughout.

Cycling South Africa’s Garden Route

Pedal along one of the world’s most scenic

coastlines, where lush forests meet whale-filled

bays and dramatic cliffs. This point-to-point

cycling adventure takes travelers past vineyards,

wildlife reserves, and the Indian Ocean,

with comfortable accommodations and expert

guides throughout.

The Americas

Rainforests, Ruins & Remote Wonders

Discover Guatemala

Explore ancient Mayan ruins in Tikal, colorful

highland towns, and the mirror-like waters of

Lake Atitlán. This cultural itinerary blends

archaeology, crafts, cuisine, and natural beauty

in one of Central America’s most captivating

countries.

Wild Costa Rica: Premium Adventure

A luxurious take on Costa Rica’s iconic wildlife

adventure, this tour features upgraded ecolodges,

rainforest hikes, and river safaris in

search of monkeys, toucans, and sloths—all

with a lighter environmental footprint.

Essential Colombia

From the Caribbean charm of Cartagena to

the coffee farms of Minca and Medellín’s artfilled

streets, this adventure explores

Colombia’s culture, cuisine, and biodiversity

with expert local insight and unbeatable

opportunities to hike the wild landscapes and

beaches of Tayrona National Park.

Mexico’s Yucatán Adventure

Discover a vibrant mix of ancient history and

coastal beauty with visits to Chichén Itzá, colonial

Mérida, and turquoise cenotes. This compact

tour offers a balance of culture, nature,

and culinary discovery.

Discover Peru

Uncover the cultural and natural highlights of

Peru, from Lima to Cusco and the Sacred

Valley. The journey culminates in a visit to

Machu Picchu, with chances to explore markets,

ruins, and Andean traditions along the

way.

Europe - Coastal Hikes and Island Charm

Hiking Greece’s Dodecanese Islands

Island-hop on foot across the Aegean, hiking

scenic trails that wind past monasteries,

coastal cliffs, and whitewashed villages. This

route connects lesser-known islands like

Patmos, Kalymnos, and Leros, offering both

natural beauty and cultural depth.

ExodusTravels.com


Oku Japan Introduces 'Spirit of Aizu'

A New Self-Guided Hiking Adventure that Explores Samurai Heritage and Timeless Traditions

A tour designed for those seeking a deeper connection to Japan and Japanese culture

• A visit to Tsuruga Castle and the beautifully

preserved Edo-period post town of Ōuchi.

• A walk through the Komado Marshlands, a

nationally designated natural monument

marsh where more than 470 species of

diverse flora can be seen.

• A visit to the historical village of Maezawa,

known for its unique L-shaped thatched-roof

houses and said to be founded by a samurai

who settled here in the late 16th century.

• Exploration of the Hinoemata area to learn

about the local culture, including its unique

kabuki tradition.

Oku Japan, the expert in immersive,

community-focused hiking journeys

into the heart of Japanese culture,

is thrilled to announce the launch of its

newest self-guided tour, Spirit of Aizu. This

carefully crafted itinerary invites travelers to

explore the well-preserved traditions, stunning

landscapes, and deep-rooted heritage

of Aizu, an off-the-beaten-track area in

northern Japan.

With six- and seven-day options, this selfguided

tour offers a unique opportunity to

connect with this more remote region of the

country – including its rich history and scenic

beauty – through a series of approachable

hikes and cultural encounters.

“Our new Spirit of Aizu tour is a testament to

the deep cultural heritage and breathtaking

landscapes that make Japan so special,” says

Tomoko Shiraki, Product Manager for Oku

Japan. “This is an itinerary designed for travelers

seeking a deeper connection to Japan –

one that blends gentle hiking with cultural

immersion – in a region that remains largely

undiscovered by even domestic visitors.”

Step Into the Samurai Legacy of Aizu

Aizu has long been known for its unwavering

commitment to samurai values and traditional

ways of life. Nestled in the mountains of

the Tohoku region, this more remote area

has steadfastly maintained its many traditions,

offering visitors an authentic glimpse

into Japan’s past. From its stunning volcanic

lakes and scenic marshlands to its well-preserved

historic sites, Aizu presents an unparalleled

journey through time.

On this self-guided walking tour, travelers will

take to Aizu’s nature-rich trails, walking

amidst alpine flowers and green marshland

as they follow in the steps of history from

Japan’s feudal period, to the tumultuous and

often-tragic Boshin War (sometimes known

as the Japanese Revolution or Japanese Civil

War) during the end of the shogunate in the

late 19th century, to the struggles of the 20th

century to preserve the region’s greatest gift –

its natural beauty.

Highlights of this tour include:

• A walk to Hanitsu Shrine, resting place of

the founder of the Aizu-Matsudaira Clan,

which ruled the Aizu domain for 200 years.

• Exploration of the far side of Mount Bandai

(‘Urabandai’), which is wider and less developed

than the southern face, to discover its

many vividly-colored volcanic lakes.

• A visit to the castle town of Aizu-

Wakamatsu, where lords ruled and where

pro-shōgun forces made their stand in the

late 19th century.

The six- and seven-night options for this itinerary

are identical save for one day on the

seven-night itinerary where guests visit Oze

National Park, a stunning park that owes its

existence to the fierce preservation efforts of

several generations. Its boardwalks meander

through rolling marshes and its forested trails

are a legacy of another battle, fought with

legislation rather than swords, where the spirit

of Aizu’s people proved victorious.

Accommodations offered as part of both versions

of this tour feature a mix of Japanesestyle

hotels, as well as onsen ryokans and

onsen minshuku (family-run guesthouses with

a hot spring), the latter providing enthusiasts

of Japanese onsen culture the chance to

bathe in some of the country’s most remote

and “hidden” natural hot springs.

“These tours fall under our Active trip level,

putting them more at the activity level of our

classic Nakasendo tours,” continues Shiraki.

“The longest hike is 7.8 miles (12.7 km), but

this can be shortened as well. It is a tour that

is suitable for those looking for a combination

of more gentle hikes highlighted by some

wonderfully unique cultural experiences in a

truly off-the-beaten-track area of Japan.”

the people that call it home.”

Visit: OkuJapan.com

• An up-close look at the intense education

of young samurai at Nisshinkan, the official

school of the Aizu Clan.


Mjpo!Xpsme!Usbwfm!Pggfst!Op!Tjohmf!Tvqqmfnfout!po!Tfmfdu!Kpvsofzt!

on the Chobe River. This safari offers

accommodations in stunning luxury tents

and front-row seats to breathtaking African

sunsets with sundowners.

Luxury Tanzania

This 10-day ultimate safari allows globetrotters

to witness the densest concentration of

wildlife in Africa. Animal enthusiasts will

enjoy their stay at Tarangire National Park,

which boasts the highest concentration of

elephants in Tanzania. They will enjoy the

thrill of morning and afternoon game drives

across the wide-open grass plains of

Serengeti National Park. Known as ‘the

eighth wonder of the world’, the

Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa's bestknown

wildlife arenas, home to approximately

25,000 large free-roaming mammals

including the Big Five. Guests descend

2,000 feet into this magnificent crater,

boasting dense wildlife for an incredible

experience, and savour a private lunch

amid its natural beauty.

As solo travel continues to grow as

a leading trend for 2025, Lion

World Travel (LWT), an affordable

luxury safari outfitter, continues to offer no

single supplements on a range of select

journeys tailored for independent adventurers.

Guests can enjoy shared experiences

and connect with like-minded travelers on

unforgettable small-group journeys led by

knowledgeable local guides for explorations

of Africa's rich culture and wildlife. As of

2025, year to date, LWT observed an

increase in solo travelers, rising to 14 per

cent. The outfitter has also seen a rise in

female travelers to Africa, reaching 12 per

cent to date, reflecting the growing demand

for this highly appealing travel style.

Looking ahead, solo adventurers are

already booking for 2026, indicating a

growing enthusiasm among those choosing

the freedom to create their own memorable

African journeys.

Here are Lion World Travel’s top three journeys

designed for solo travel with no extra

fees for single occupancy. These safaris are

subject to availability and select dates.

The Best of Cape Town & Botswana

Guests embark on an unforgettable 10-day

safari adventure that explores scenic beauty,

culture, and thrilling wildlife encounters

through various viewing angles. Travelers

will explore the historic and cultural sites of

the Mother City, including world-class

museums, bustling markets, and beautiful

beaches. As they venture into Botswana,

guests will enjoy afternoon and evening

game drives in open vehicles, guided walking

safaris, and even opt for a scenic helicopter

ride over the Okavango Delta. They

will experience the majesty of Chobe

National Park, home to the largest population

of African elephants in the world, on a

game drive within the park or a boat cruise

Luxury Kenya

Wildlife lovers embark on an exhilarating

adventure through two prolific game viewing

regions in Kenya on this 10-day journey

of affordable luxury. At Ol Pejeta

Conservancy, travelers will explore the area

in a 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser and visit the

Chimpanzee Sanctuary, providing refuge to

orphaned chimps and critically endangered

eastern black rhinos. In the stunning Lake

Nakuru National Park, known for its large

flamingo populations, guests can encounter

the endangered Rothschild giraffes, as well

as black and white rhinos, elusive leopards,

and more. The journey also includes an

interactive cooking class, where participants

can connect with local culture before heading

to the iconic Maasai Mara National

Reserve. Guests enjoy a full day of game

drive accompanied by Maasai warrior

guides, a hippo pool breakfast on the banks

of the world-famous Mara River, and soak

in the diverse savanna and iconic acacia

which define this extraordinary region.

www.lionworldtravel.com


Explorandes Celebrates Golden Anniversary

B Corp Certification, and Cements its Status as the Adventure Tourism and Responsible Travel Leader in Peru

Offering big adventures with a small footprint since 1975

In contrast to the more popular trekking

routes in Peru, such as the Inca Trail, the

Cordillera Huayhuash remains largely undiscovered

by many international trekkers.

Apart from its powerful portrayal in the documentary-drama

Touching the Void, which

recounts a harrowing tale of survival in the

range, this remote area is seldom explored

by outsiders. But it is a trekker’s paradise and

Explorandes offers the ultimate adventure for

outdoor enthusiasts.

Explorandes, the Peruvian tour operator

that specializes in adventure

tourism and sustainable travel, is

celebrating 50 years of showcasing Peru’s

most stunning landscapes along with its

newly achieved status as a Certified B

Corporation® (B Corp).

Founded in 1975, Explorandes is a pioneer

in sustainable adventure tourism, offering

immersive hiking and trekking, nature and

wildlife, and cultural experiences across the

country. From the iconic Inca Trail and the

remote wonders of Choquequirao, to

Amazon cruises and high-altitude adventures

in the Andes, the company specializes in

unique, low-impact journeys that connect

travelers with nature, history, and local communities.

Its recent certification as a B Corp

offers global recognition to Explorandes'

ongoing commitment as a leader in commercial,

environmental, ethical, and sustainable

practices.

“Adventure tourism is a very noble industry, in

the sense that we focus on providing unique

travel experiences for our guests while contributing

to the sustainable development of

the destinations where we operate, fostering

respectful and fair labor practices, and promoting

responsible management of cultural

and environmental resources,” says Martín

Romero, general manager and partner at

Explorandes. “Our guests are looking for

immersive experiences in culture and in

nature, the very things we have been committed

to protecting and preserving for the

last 50 years and will continue to be for

another 50 years and beyond. The B Corp

certification reinforces what has been our

mission since the company’s founding in

1975, with our commitment to sustainability

now measured against internationally recognized

standards.”

Taking the (Inca) Road Less Traveled

As the first travel company to operate the

Inca Trail trek, spearheading tourism in

remote and rural regions of Peru,

Explorandes remains true to its roots of

exploring the road less traveled, getting people

deeper into the country for more immersive

and impactful experiences.

This is certainly the case with its 12-day

Huayhuash Trek adventure, which explores

Peru’s remote, stunning mountains, crossing

high passes, alpine lakes, and wild valleys

into the very heart of the Cordillera

Huayhuash, the second highest tropical

mountain range in the world.

Starting off in Huaraz, also known as Peru’s

hiking capital, this 12-day small group (maximum

12 travelers) guided adventure crosses

six high passes over 14,760 feet and two that

are higher than 16,400 feet. Throughout the

trek, the group will camp next to stunning

alpine lakes and in broad, grassy valleys

replete with wildflowers and rushing alpine

creeks, all while basking in the imposing

presence of the White Mountains that loom

overhead (with peaks at elevations above

16,400 feet and 19,685 feet, respectively),

with departures running regularly from April

through October.

Other adventures available through

Explorandes include:

• An eight-day Taste of Peru: From Coastal

Lima to Andean Cusco gastronomy tour that

offers an unforgettable journey through the

flavors and history of the country.

• A five-day Hidden Valleys of Salkantay hiking

tour that starts from a little-known valley

near Limatambo.

• A nine-day Alpamayo Circuit trekking tour

that explore the remote regions of the

Cordillera Blanca.

• A seven-day Choquequirao to Machu

Picchu trek that perfectly combines remote

high-mountain hiking with archaeological

exploration at the iconic Inca citadel.

• And much more!

https://www.explorandes.com


Discover

Fascinating

BOLIVIA

Indonesia Unlocked: 20 new G Adventures trips launch in lesser-explored regions

The adventures take travelers off the tourist trail and immerse them in the cultures of rarely seen communities

Sulawesi Adventure:

The Culture of Tana Toraja

This nine-day trip takes travelers truly off the

tourist trail as they journey into the heart of

Sulawesi, home to misty highlands and lush

paddy terraces. In Tana Toraja, life, death, and

the afterlife intertwine in ways that will challenge

and surprise visitors. The group will

explore villages where traditional cliffside

tombs and elaborate funeral ceremonies honour

loved ones for generations, and meet the

Torajan people, hear their stories firsthand,

and gain a deeper understanding of a culture

that sees death not as an end, but as a sacred

continuation. As part of the trip, the group will

experience life through the eyes of locals and

may even have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity

to attend a Torajan funeral – a ritual

steeped in tradition that symbolises the respect

for ancestors passing to the afterlife and a celebration

that’s a privilege to witness.

In one of its most exciting and biggest

product developments to date, small

group adventure company, G

Adventures, has launched 20 new trips in the

beautiful islands of Indonesia. In line with G

Adventures’ commitment to community

tourism, the new adventures, which join the

Classic travel style, give travelers the opportunity

to discover untouched regions in the archipelagic

country, while introducing them to

fresh and impactful community initiatives that

take them off-the-beaten-path in the more

popular island hotspots such as Bali.

As always, the small group adventure operator

is working closely with local communities to

bring the benefits of tourism to the regions

where it’s needed most, and highlight areas of

the country that have remained unseen, without

much access to the tourism chain. The new

itineraries will immerse travelers in barelyknown,

underexplored islands such as tropical

Sulawesi, where they’ll discover the culture of

the Torajan people and may even have the

once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend a local

funeral celebration. In Kalimantan, in

Indonesian Borneo, they’ll spend time at a

sanctuary for rescued orangutans, hike in the

jungle and appreciate the unspoilt beauty of

the region while staying in a traditional klotok

boat. These experiences are carefully arranged

and designed to create a positive impact on

communities, while showing travelers the cultures

and corners of the world that are often

unseen.

The Indonesian island of Bali has experienced

overtourism in recent years; to address this, the

new G Adventures trips will continue to operate

consciously in regions such as Bali, Lombok

and Borneo, steering travelers away from popular

sites, or ensuring the group experiences

them in sensitive, locally beneficial ways, by

spending time at community projects developed

by G Adventures’ non-profit partner,

Planeterra.

The 20 new trips join a handful of other new

trips, launched earlier this year, straddling the

Geluxe travel style (for those seeking one-of-akind

accommodation and a comfortable yet

active adventure) and Solo-ish, for solo travelers

keen on the independence of exploring the

world without existing friends or family, but

with the chance for new connections and

memories with people along the way. The new

Classic trips can be combined back to back,

giving travelers the chance to see more of the

country if they choose several shorter weeklong

trips, while there are also longer 21- to

29-day itineraries to choose from.

20 new G Adventures trips in Indonesia are

available to book now, and include:

Indonesia: Borneo Orangutans of Tanjung

Puting National Park

This seven-day adventure journeys deep into

the wild heart of Indonesian Borneo in search

of the elusive orangutan. Three nights are

spent aboard a traditional klotok boat, with

delicious local meals prepared on board, and

there are treks through dense rainforest by day

and night, exploring hidden corners of this

remote paradise. A visit to the Tanjung

Harapan Orangutan Rehabilitation Center for

orphaned orangutans gives a unique opportunity

to see these magnificent creatures up close

in a semi-wild environment. A visit to Tanjung

Harapan village gives insight into the local

people and their relationship with the rainforest

– something the group will appreciate all

the more by the end of the adventure.

Highlights of Sumatra

This seven-day journey through Sumatra island

in Western Indonesia immerses travelers in a

side of Indonesia that few get to see. Travelers

will revel in jungle treks, explore hidden villages

and experience epic wildlife encounters,

including a hike through the lush Gunung

Leuser National Park to search for the elusive

Sumatran orangutan. The itinerary includes

exhilarating river tube rides and soaks in

steamy hot springs under the stars, plus trips to

several local villages, including the traditional

Karo Batak village, Dokan Village.

www.gadventures.com


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Travel the world through our 1,500 posts...

Destinations / Cruises / Hotels / Tours / Airlines / Accessories

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32

sample. But a good way to begin is to do

the progressive dinner walking experience

called “The Fusion of the World Food Tour”

to get your gourmet bearings early.

For impressive Indonesian, the new NUSA is

the choice, while pure Peruvian flavors soar

at Lima. And why settle for Tex-Mex when

you can sample authentic fare from the

Oaxaca region at Agave, or tantalizing

Mexican street food and traditional Mayan

flavors at the stunning new El Patio?

Awesome Asian? The new St. Regis Aruba

Resort has an Akira Back franchise on its

rooftop, and AZIA’s elegant décor is as

much a visual treat as their artistic sushi.

Craving old Havana flavors? Cuba’s

Cookin’ eagerly awaits.

Aruba’s Fabulous Foodie Revolution

Historically, ‘One Happy Island’

has never been touted as a ‘foodie-focused’

Caribbean destination,

but Aruba has been undergoing a culinary

revolution!

Let’s start with chef’s tables…

It wasn’t long ago there were only four

chef’s table experiences on this island.

Today, there are close to a dozen! Maybe it

was the extraordinary success of INFINI,

helmed by local chef extraordinaire Urvin

Croes, that spawned such a spike in their

recent creation. The culinary artistry of this

chef and the foodie adventure there is consistently

world class. And though many likeminded

experiences follow the concept of

an open kitchen surrounded by an intimate

semi-circle of diners like KOAL, 2 Fools and

a Bull, EVER, and Royale, some newcomers

like The Journey and Bogart’s Speakeasy

opted for a restaurant style ambience of

individual tables where the chef visits diners

throughout the service. (No need to mingle

by Susan Campbell

with strangers.) And many private catering

chefs have been busy opening their own

style of intimate venues worth discovering

like Chef Life Aruba and Dessalines Haiti

Caribbean Cuisine. (Oxtails anyone?)

In fact, Aruba’s burgeoning culinary sophistication

has been getting noticed by international

big-name chefs. The latest being

Jeremy Ford, Top Chef Season 13 winner,

who has both a Michelin Star AND a

Michelin Green Star for his Florida spot

‘Stubborn Seed’. He decided Bucuti & Tara

Beach Resort, the Caribbean’s only certified

carbon neutral hotel, was the ideal place to

take root for his latest venture, an exclusive

chef’s table called ‘Terra’ focused on sustainable

dining and sourcing local ingredients.

(Opening soon.)

World cuisine abounds…

With over 300 restaurants, the choices are

legion. You’re bound to run out of time

before you run out of compelling spots to

Small plates are also big. Aruba Marriot’s

new beachfront Mercát offers excellent

Mediterranean shareables and their Friday

“Aperitivo” specials provide superb social

gathering ops. Also surfside is the gorgeous

new Club Margot at all-inclusive Tamarijn

where non-resort guests can also enjoy big

wooden platters of gourmet shareables

designed to be enjoyed family-style accompanied

by award winning cocktails. (Go at

sunset.)

Legendary toes-in-the-sand spots like

Passions on the Beach are a must-try, but

unique non-beachy venues also offer

bespoke foodie evenings out. Beautifully

restored century-old homes like Quinta del

Carmen, Papiamento, and Taste My Aruba

are among them. And ‘De Olde Molen,’ a

200-year-old windmill, now hosts King Fred

and Princess Diana for Dutch pancakes and

international specialties. Or how about a

sunset dinner atop the California

Lighthouse? (One of only two places in the

world for lighthouse dining!) And for the

ultimate in romantic escapism, Aruba

Ocean Villas has swoon-worthy gourmet

dinners in a Tahitian style overwater palapa

ideal for proposals.

No matter when you visit, there are many

special annual foodie events that often also

combine culture, fashion, art, and music.

https://www.aruba.com/us/calendar


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La Tanière: When Quebec Terroir

Unfolds in Fifteen Acts

Article & Photography by Nathalie Clark & Pierre Houle

Laurie Raphaël: A Timeless Dance

Between Emotion and Terroir

by Nathalie Clark & Pierre Houle

Dining at La Tanière isn’t just a meal—it’s a multi-sensory experience

of the highest order. It’s a gastronomic museum, masterfully

framing and elevating the rich ingredients of Quebec’s terroir

through a refined and theatrical staging.

A Culinary Speakeasy in the Heart of Old Quebec

The experience begins even before your arrival. A text message with a secret

code sets the tone, hinting at a clandestine entrance. Upon arrival, guests

are greeted personally—an opening act to a meticulously choreographed

gastronomic performance.

Seated beneath soft lighting in a 17th-century stone vault, you’re transported

to another realm. Here, every staff member—from the mixologist to the

sommelier—plays the role of culinary artist, contributing to an unforgettable

evening.

The crafted cocktails highlight local ingredients and boreal spices. The first

is an elderflower Collins, served alongside three amuse-bouches featuring

mushrooms. There is no fixed menu; Chef François-Emmanuel Nicol draws

inspiration from seasonal harvests, creating surprise dishes that unfold over

15 to 20 courses.

Each course is a narrative, where the palate becomes the lead character,

guided by molecular harmonies woven by the chef and his team. This isn’t

simply dining—it’s an edible symphony.

As I write this, I don’t yet know if La Tanière has earned its place in the newly

arrived Michelin Guide for Quebec. If it has, it is wholly deserved. The

establishment stands apart—not only for the exceptional quality of its cuisine

and service but for the singular mission it embodies.

https://taniere3.com/

The restaurant La Tanière has just entered the global elite of gastronomy,

having been awarded two Michelin stars on May 15. Eight restaurants in

Quebec received one Michelin star. La Tanière is the only one to have

earned two!

From the very first steps inside Laurie Raphaël, you sense something

unique. For 34 years, this institution has elevated Quebec’s

terroir with cuisine that is both precise and deeply emotional.

The evening begins with full immersion: a sliding door opens to reveal

the brigade in motion, led by Chef Raphaël Vézina. The welcome is

warm—a promise of a remarkable culinary journey.

A glass of Ruinart champagne is paired with a croquette of pork snout,

lardo, poached oyster, and Siberian caviar—an exquisite balance of

acidity, iodine, and fat. Then comes the halibut ceviche, arranged in

translucent petals, marrying freshness and finesse.

Where precision of technique meets the emotion of taste

Next, a smoked duck and foie gras tartlet with Jerusalem artichoke,

black garlic, and a quail egg in truffle gelée—a jewel of textures and

earthy flavors. Audacity peaks with grilled kale salad, carrot and mirin

reduction, miso, and brown butter, enhanced by a bold pairing of sake

or Umeshu (Japanese plum wine).

Each dish tells a story. Each bite becomes a dialogue between terroir

and creativity.

Laurie Raphaël is also a reflection on time. Time to extract the soul of a

broth, to patiently reduce a sauce, to fully understand an ingredient

before elevating it. Nothing is static. Everything evolves in step with the

seasons. Each course in the eight-course tasting menu, with wine pairings,

is a tribute to meticulous craftsmanship and profound respect for

the product.

https://laurieraphael.com/en/

The restaurant Laurie Raphaël received one Michelin star during the

recent announcement of the Michelin-awarded restaurants in Quebec.


China: Dim Sum

Germany: Black Forest Cake

Greece: Moussaka

Foodie

Tour!

Italy: Pizza Margherita

Japan: Sushi

Mexico: Tacos Spain: Paella Thailand: Pad Thai

Advertorial

Copa Airlines Remains the Top Choice for Connectivity to the Americas

Copa Airlines also offers ConnectMiles, a

loyalty program where passengers can earn

miles for future travel with Copa Airlines or

any of the 24 airlines in the Star Alliance network,

which spans over 1,300 destinations in

193 countries.

Copa Airlines, a Panama-based international

carrier and member of the Global Star

Alliance network, has been connecting the

Americas for over 75 years. With seamless

connections to 85 destinations across 32

countries in North, Central, and South

America, as well as the Caribbean, Copa

Airlines has established itself as the leading

airline in Latin America. In Canada, the airline

operates daily flights from Toronto and

Montreal to Panama, connecting passengers

to the rest of the continent through the

Hub of the Americas® in Panama City. This

makes Copa Airlines the most convenient

and efficient way to connect Toronto and

Montreal to Central, South America and the

Caribbean.

World-Class Service

Copa Airlines continues to offer a full-service

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Connectivity with the Americas

Copa Airlines offers via the Hub of the

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Why Fly with Copa Airlines?

For those seeking superior travel experience,

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planning a trip, travelers can take advantage

of the Panama Stopover Program, which

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the option to explore two destinations for the

price of one.

Industry Recognition

Maintaining its leadership in the region,

Copa Airlines was recognized by Cirium as

the “Most Punctual Airline in Latin America in

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rate of 88.22% positioning itself

among the three most punctual airlines

worldwide. The airline was also recognized

in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2023 Readers’

Choice Awards as one of the Top 15

International Airlines, the only carrier from

the Americas on the list. Additionally, for the

ninth consecutive year, Copa Airlines

received the SKYTRAX award for the Best

Airline in Central America and the

Caribbean..

About Copa Airlines

Copa Airlines, a subsidiary of Copa

Holdings, is a leading airline in passengers

and cargo in Latin America. In its 76 years of

operation, it has established the Hub of the

Americas® in Panama City as the continent's

premier connections center. With a very

modern fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, Copa

Airlines serves countries in North, Central,

South America, and the Caribbean. The airline

consistently achieves top on-time performance

results in the continent and among

the best in the world. Copa Airlines is a

member of the Star Alliance, the world's most

relevant airline network, and offers the

ConnectMiles frequent traveler program,

allowing accumulation and redemption of

miles across more than 25 airlines worldwide.

To plan your trip, purchase tickets and

manage reservations, use Web Check-in,

and find information on travel policies and

requirements.

Visit: www.copa.com

Take Antigua and Barbuda to the Top of Your Bucket List

Five Must-Do Attractions

We get it. Things change. You

wake up one day and suddenly

the tried-and-true vacation

destinations - the ones you go back to, year

after year - don’t have the same appeal.

These days, there are lots of reasons you

might be looking to broaden your vacation

horizons and choose new destinations. You

don’t have to tell us why. Keep your secrets.

We’re just here to advise you; to make that

search a little bit easier by pointing you in

the direction of Antigua and Barbuda. This

dual-island Caribbean destination just

might be the most dynamic in the entire

region, packing luxury, adventure, cuisine,

and ecotourism into two mighty stretches of

sublime tropical real estate. If you find that

your old “must-visits” are turning into

“never-visits”, we’ve got five handy replacements

in Antigua and Barbuda to fill your

bucket list with.

Take in the view at Shirley Heights

Antigua’s most famous vantage point takes

the first spot on our list, offering stunning

views of English and Falmouth Harbour

from nearly 500 feet up. Shirley Heights is

the definition of “post-card perfect”, and it’s

conveniently close to Nelson’s Dockyard: a

restored naval fort and UNESCO-recognized

heritage site.

Putt for Birdie at Cedar Valley

Add a little tee time to your “me time” at the

Cedar Valley Golf Club, Antigua’s Ralph

Aldridge-designed 18-hole marvel. There’s

nothing quite like gazing beyond the fairway

to admire a sweeping view of the sea.

Turn your next round of golf into a serene

escape into the gentle, verdant hills of a

Caribbean paradise.

Adventure at Stingray City

Make new, aquatic friends at Stingray City,

where gentle Southern Rays mingle with visitors

just off one of Antigua’s quiet cays.

Swim and feed with the rays, before diving

into the depths and meeting more denizens

of the deep on a snorkelling tour of the

nearby reef. Unforgettable for nature lovers

of all ages.

Dine at Nobu Barbuda

You may have been lucky enough to get a

taste of Nobu at one of its other international

locations, but there’s nothing like enjoying

masterfully prepared sushi right on one

of Barbuda’s best beaches. The breezy

cabana trappings hide an immaculately

refined menu - and the undeniable appeal

of a personalized beach barbecue.

Birdwatch at Codrington Lagoon

On the sister island of Barbuda, central

Codrington Lagoon is home to thousands of

Magnificent Frigatebirds: a striking species

with a red throat sac that inflates like a balloon.

Ecotourists will relish the chance to

visit these birds via boat with an expert

guide - and take in the thrill and drama of

their dramatic aerial dives and mating

antics.

Visit: www.visitantiguabarbuda.com


40

of Coca-Cola syrup in a cast-iron kettle over

an open flame. He delivered it to friends at

Jacobs Pharmacy in downtown Atlanta,

where it was mixed with carbonated water

and served for five cents a glass as a soda

fountain drink. Pemberton’s partner suggested

the name Coca-Cola as the syrup contained

extracts of the Peruvian coca leaf and

African kola nut.

In a gallery called The Vault, one learns how

the secret formula has been carefully guarded

over the years. The Icons gallery sheds

light on the origins of the contoured Coca-

Cola bottle, the brand’s red disc found on

storefronts around the world, and the sweeping

lines and elaborate flourishes of script

spelling out the product’s name.

The iconic Coca-Cola polar bears made

their TV debut in 1993, but they were first

seen in France in 1922 and over the years in

print advertising. Guests can cuddle with a

seven-foot-tall bear mascot that poses for

pictures.

Coke Attraction Captivates Visitors to Atlanta

by Randy Mink

A new experience called Coca-Cola Stories

immerses guests in the brand's rich history

through AI magic, interactive displays and

hundreds of artifacts. Photo opportunities let

them pose in a vintage Coca-Cola ad and

with a 1939 delivery truck.

What’s more American than baseball,

hot dogs and apple pie? It

could be an ice-cold Coca-Cola.

One of the most famous brands on the planet

takes center stage at World of Coca-Cola,

a top tourist attraction in Atlanta, Georgia,

the city where the ubiquitous beverage was

invented in 1886 and where the company is

headquartered today.

A collector of Coke and other soft drink

memorabilia, I made a beeline to the shrine

soon after my arrival in downtown Atlanta.

My kitchen, I should add, is decorated with

Coca-Cola metal signs, not to mention magnets,

a clock and various bric-a-brac bearing

the red-and-white logo recognized around

the globe. Out on the deck, potted plants fill

vintage wooden Coke crates purchased at

antiques stores.

Coca-Cola is a feel-good that makes me

happy and nostalgic. When I travel to foreign

countries, the familiar sight of a red

Coca-Cola sign lends a sense of comfort, a

touch of home.

Emotional connections between the fizzy

drink and its fans are dramatized in a sixminute

introductory film in the World of

Coca-Cola’s theater. Showing how Coke is

there for joyous moments in life, scenes

depict memorable events like a family’s surprise

party for their parents’ anniversary, a

soldier returning from the Middle East and a

marriage proposal in a hot air balloon.

Some audience members exit the theater

misty-eyed.

Touring the World of Coca-Cola, visitors

learn that Atlanta pharmacist John

Pemberton, like an alchemist of old, used a

long wooden paddle to mix the first batches

Most fun is Taste It!, a room full of multiple

tasting stations offering unlimited sampling

of 100+ beverages from around the world,

many of them quite exotic. How about a sip

of cucumber-flavored Sprite from Romania

or Melon Frosty Fanta from Thailand?

Wandering across a sticky floor from station

to station, I tried non-alcoholic Stoney

Ginger Beer from Tanzania and Minute Maid

Joy Apple Lychee, a favorite in Korea.

The gift shop has everything Coca-Cola,

from pajamas and boxer shorts to Christmas

ornaments and kitchen towels. For $8.95

you can customize a Coke can with your

name or a message.

For those thirsting for nostalgia, World of

Coca-Cola is the Real Thing. Admission is

$17 for adults, $13 for ages 3-12.

www.worldofcoca-cola.com

www.discoveratlanta.com


World Traveler's

eleven

Best World Cities to Visit

As posted on our social media pages

42

entirely in English, leads participants through

sumo demonstrations by former professional

sumo wrestlers, followed by a hands-on

practice session and a savoury Chanko Hot

Pot (the soothing soulful soup enjoyed almost

daily by sumo wrestlers).

Off-the-wall fun like the Osaka Go Karting

Tour with Funny Costume awaits you. Choose

your costume, buckle up and tour the town in

your own go-kart! Osaka teamLab Botanical

Gardens, an outdoor night museum simulating

immersive ecosystems, dazzles admirers

as it seeks to change how humans perceive

artwork and the environment.

Onwards from Osaka

Culture, Cuisine, and Fun

Make Osaka a Must-Visit

Once Japan’s centre for rice trading,

and briefly the Imperial Capital,

Osaka is a cosmopolitan, electronic

and gastronomic hub of Japan. Located at

the mouth of Osaka Bay, it is known as “The

Nation’s Kitchen.” Locals have an insatiable

appetite for everything delicious, from fresh

morning markets to decadent culinary

nightlife. There is always something new, fun

and typically tasty happening in Osaka.

Osaka has put together an incredible schedule

of can’t-miss experiences, sure to delight

both locals and visitors interested in

Japanese culinary traditions, pop-culture

and art. Here are a few of the headline

attractions you’ll want to make time for.

Sights, Sounds, and Pounds (of Chanko)

Await in Osaka

Osaka Expo 2025 is shaping up to be the

most exciting Expo ever. The theme is

"Designing Future Society for Our Lives" and

includes sub-themes of lifestyle, including

diet and exercise, and extending the human

lifespan. Over 165 countries are participating

in the Expo, which will be held from April

13, 2025 to October 13, 2025, on an artificial

island in Osaka Bay called Yumeshima,

with beautiful scenic views of the Seto Inland

Sea. The Expo will be sustainable and cashless

and will feature virtual, digital and green

elements for an incredible confluence of

design showcasing Japan as a beacon for

enriching and improving our quality of life

around the world.

Universal Studios Japan is launching two new

amazing anime-inspired experiences from

the globally popular and captivating series

One Piece and Jujutsu Kaisen. These Fan-

Fest Nights are set to begin April 25, 2025,

and will join events based on Star Trek, Back

to the Future, Dungeons & Dragons and The

Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Hanshin Contents Link Corporation is offering

a new limited-time program called,

"Sumo Practice Experience with Chanko Hot

Pot," at The Sumo Hall Hirakuza Osaka, in

which a 90-minute program, conducted

As if the compelling reasons to visit Osaka

listed above weren’t enough, the city is also

the best base from which to venture out and

explore the Chugoku Region in the west of

Honshu. Trains arrive and depart throughout

the day to whisk you away to Hiroshima,

Okayama, Shimane, Tottori and Yamaguchi

Prefectures.

Discover immaculate gardens, matcha culture,

and the magic of Kagura theatre in

Shimane. Surf the Tottori sand dunes and

explore the natural wonders of the San’in

Geopark and National Park. Relax in

Yamaguchi’s unique natural landscapes and

the calm of the Seto Inland Sea. Explore

World Heritage Sites and bike through scenic

townscapes and castle towns in Hiroshima.

Immersive yourself in Okayama’s scenic

samurai towns, traditional craftwork classes

from earthenware to Japanese sword-making,

or hand-picking the juiciest, sweetest

premium fruit for which Japan is renowned,

from luscious pearly-white peaches to gigantic

bunches of muscat grapes and fairy taleperfect

strawberries.

Say “Hi!” to Kansai

Only a short Shinkansen ride from Tokyo,

there’s no better time to experience Osaka,

the Kansai region and everything beyond,

than in 2025.

www.japan.travel


Armenia Named Destination of

the Year for Adventure Tourism

South African Tourism Launches

New Global Brand Campaign

Armenia has been named Destination of the Year for

Adventure Tourism at the PATWA International Travel Awards

2025, held at ITB Berlin on 5 March 2025, one of the world's

leading travel trade shows. This prestigious award highlights Armenia’s

growing reputation as a top global destination for adventure seekers.

From its rugged mountains and scenic hiking trails to exhilarating outdoor

activities like rock climbing, paragliding, and off-road exploration,

Armenia offers an unparalleled experience for thrill-seekers and nature

enthusiasts. The country’s rich cultural heritage, combined with breathtaking

landscapes, makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking for unique

and immersive adventures.

Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Armenia,

expressed immense pride in receiving the award:

"This recognition is a testament to Armenia’s natural beauty, diverse adventure

tourism offerings, and the dedication of our tourism sector. We invite

travelers from around the world to explore Armenia’s stunning landscapes

and experience the thrill of adventure in a land rich with history and hospitality."

Armenia has made significant strides in promoting sustainable and

responsible adventure tourism, ensuring that its natural treasures remain

preserved for future generations. With ongoing investments in eco-friendly

infrastructure, developing adventure experiences, capacity building and

local community engagement, the country continues to enhance its position

as a premier adventure travel destination.

The PATWA (Pacific Area Travel Writers Association) International Travel

Awards are among the most esteemed recognitions in the global travel

and tourism industry, celebrating excellence in tourism, hospitality, and

sustainable travel initiatives.

This award reinforces Armenia’s commitment to adventure tourism and its

vision of offering world-class experiences in one of the most captivating

landscapes on Earth.

https://armenia.travel/

South African Tourism officially unveiled its new global brand campaign,

“South Africa Awaits — Come Find Your Joy!”, bringing

South Africa’s vibrant spirit to its top overseas market.

The “South Africa Awaits — Come Find Your Joy!” campaign is a celebration

of the country’s boundless energy, rich culture, and extraordinary experiences.

It invites travelers to rediscover their sense of wonder, embracing the

joy that travel to South Africa can unlock.

“In a world where life’s simple joys often get lost in the rush of daily routines,

our new global campaign is an invitation to reignite that child-like

curiosity and embrace the thrill of exploration,” said Thembisle Sehloho,

Chief Marketing Officer of South African Tourism.

Through immersive visuals, from the vibrant streets of Johannesburg to the

tranquil beauty of the Cape winelands, the campaign’s creative content

takes audiences on a captivating journey that reaffirms the country’s reputation

as a leading global destination for wildlife, culture, and adventure. It

aligns seamlessly with South African Tourism’s broader vision of driving economic

growth and community upliftment through tourism.

A Campaign Backed by Growth and Opportunity

North America continues to be a key market for South African Tourism. In

2024, the United States was South Africa’s number one overseas source

market, with a 5.2% increase in American arrivals compared to 2023.

Canada also experienced growth of 5.5% year-over-year, underscoring the

effectiveness of collaborative efforts between South African Tourism, the private

sector, and the travel trade.

Momentum has carried into 2025, with North American arrivals up 4.1%

year-over-year in the first quarter.

“American travelers are actively seeking destinations that offer meaningful,

culturally enriching, and adventurous experiences, and South Africa delivers

on all fronts,” said Darryl Erasmus, Chief Operations Officer of South

African Tourism.

“From breathtaking safaris and rich cultural explorations to vibrant city life,

world-class gastronomy, and award-winning wine, South Africa offers

unmatched diversity. We are incredibly grateful to the U.S. and Canadian

travel trade for their continued support. Your passion and partnership have

been instrumental in growing demand for our destination,” Erasmus continued.

What’s Next? The Joy-Fueled Rollout Continues

As the “South Africa Awaits — Come Find Your Joy!” campaign continues its

rollout in North America and other global markets, it aims to inspire a new

wave of travelers to explore the country’s music, culture, landscapes, and

cuisine.

www.southafrica.net


New From Australia

Turn Your Dubai Stopover into a

Mini Holiday

Travelers in 2025 are prioritizing purpose-driven escapes

that support wellbeing, resilience, and connection. With

wellness travel evolving beyond the spa to include immersive,

restorative experiences, Australia is stepping up with fresh, culturally

rich offerings that align perfectly with this “reset jetter” mindset.

LAN Bathhouse

Lan Bathhouse, located in Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast, is a

modern wellness retreat offering a full-spectrum hydrotherapy experience

with six mineral-rich spas—including four 38°C pools, a 24°C

plunge, and a 12°C cold dip designed to aid circulation, recovery, and

balance.

Just an hour south of Brisbane / Meanjin and steps from the beach,

the bathhouse also features massage and body treatments, head spa

rituals, singing bowl healing, and a stylish onsite bar, making it a

relaxing, immersive destination for both locals and travellers.

Blue Mountains Lakeside Canopy Glamping

Tucked away on a 28-acre heritage estate in Blackheath, just two

hours from Sydney / Warrane, the new Lakeside Canopy tents at

Parklands offer a secluded glamping escape for couples, blending luxury

with nature.

Each spacious 53sqm tent features a king bed, sleek ensuite, kitchenette,

and chandelier-lit interiors, while outdoors you'll find a private

firepit, sun deck, and freestanding bathtub overlooking a tranquil

lake. Surrounded by native bushland and manicured gardens, guests

also enjoy access to Parklands’ luxury day spa, making this Blue

Mountains retreat a serene, wellness-infused getaway.

Little Drifter Canberra

Little Drifter Canberra brings a fresh social energy to Australia’s capital,

blending the charm of a travelers’ hub with the elevated design of

a boutique stay. With 65+ thoughtfully designed rooms—ranging

from stylish shared spaces to plush private retreats—this lively property

invites connection through communal perks like a rooftop cinema,

alfresco BBQ, and curated local events.

Just minutes from the city’s top cultural landmarks, Little Drifter is a

welcoming base for solo adventurers, digital nomads, and curious

explorers looking to experience Canberra with comfort, style, and a

sense of community.

www.australia.com

Whether you're in transit or planning a long-haul flight with

a break in between, Dubai is the perfect place to stretch

your legs, indulge in world-class experiences, and make

every hour count. With its seamless connectivity and vibrant energy,

Dubai offers a dynamic stopover experience that’s more than just a

pause—its a destination in itself. Here’s how to spend a spectacular

24 hours in Dubai:

Start Your Morning at the Beach—or on the Greens

If you arrive early, ease into the day with some sun and sea. Dubai’s

beaches and beach clubs offer pristine stretches of sand, water sports,

and luxurious lounging. Prefer land over water? Tee off at one of

Dubai’s renowned championship golf courses such as Emirates Golf

Club, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club or Jumeirah Golf Estates.

Take in the Views from the Burj Khalifa

No visit to Dubai is complete without seeing its most iconic landmark.

Just 15 minutes from the airport, the Burj Khalifa offers panoramic city

views from its sky-high observation decks. Dive into the story behind

the world’s tallest building and marvel at its innovative design.

Shop, Play, and Explore at Dubai Mall

Next, head to the sprawling Dubai Mall, where luxury brands, local

finds, and family-friendly attractions await. Be sure to visit the Dubai

Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, glide across the Dubai Ice Rink, or

catch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show.

Refuel at Time Out Market

Located in Souk Al Bahar, Time Out Market Dubai is a curated culinary

hub where local eateries showcase the best of the city’s diverse

flavours. Whether you’re craving Emirati, Asian, or Mediterranean cuisine,

you’ll find something delicious here.

Let Emirates Handle the Details

If you’re flying with Emirates, turning your layover into a holiday is

easy. The Dubai Stopover package includes everything from airport

meet-and-greet to 24-hour check-in, guided tours, and visa support.

For added convenience, explore the Dubai Experience programme to

tailor your stay.

www.visitdubai.com

www.emirates.com/


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Discover Antalya’s Hidden Gems

Beyond the Coastline

Top 6 Best Tourist Sites

in Jordan

Antalya, the beautiful city of the Turkish Riviera, is one of

the best year-round leisure destinations with its mild temperature,

stunning coastline, ancient towns, and worldclass

resorts. However, beyond these well-trodden spots lie some truly

paradisical, lesser-known destinations that will surprise and delight

even the most seasoned travelers. These hidden gems provide great

opportunities to uniquely experience nature, culture, and history and

discover a completely different side of Antalya. Here are the city’s most

amazing undiscovered locales.

Ormana Village: Vernacular Architecture at its Best

Ormana, an old “Yörük” (nomadic) village in the Taurus Mountains’

foothills, is one of Antalya’s hidden gems. Recognised on the “2024

World’s Best Tourism Villages” list by UN Tourism, this small village is

a corner of heaven, with its landscapes of lush greens, vivid blues, and

nostalgic ambience.

Altınbeşik Cave: Otherworldly Geological Marvel

Altınbeşik Cave, located in Ürünlü village, is one of Türkiye’s unparalleled

natural wonders, yet it remains under the radar. The cave, a part

of Altınbeşik National Park, on the outskirts of Taurus, is home to

Türkiye’s largest subterranean lake and features jaw-dropping stalactites,

stalagmites and ice-like travertines.

Chimera: Fantastic Natural Phenomenon

Chimera, the site of burning rocks, one of Türkiye’s most intriguing

natural phenomena, can be easily reached after a 30-minute hike

uphill through beautiful scenery in the Çıralı settlement, known for its

beach where Caretta carettas lay their eggs. The methane gas emerging

from the ground meets the atmosphere, causing flames that never

cease. These rocks are part of the Olympos Beydağları National Park,

an area of Mediterranean beauty where the myths feel closer to reality.

Uçansu Waterfalls: Hidden Oasis on St. Paul Route

The Uçansu Waterfalls, 60 kilometres from Belek, Antalya’s popular

luxury golfing destination, are also a hidden paradise. The water coming

from Mount Taurus slowly cascades into the greens in two waterfalls,

each from a height of 25-30 metres. Reaching these waterfalls

requires an uphill hike that lasts approximately one hour. However,

visitors are rewarded with stunning views at the summit. A smaller natural

pool is also known as the King’s Pool here. Uçansu Waterfalls are

a part of the St. Paul Way, Türkiye’s second-longest hiking trail.

https://goturkiye.com/

With its historical ruins, rich culture, and unique natural

wonders—including Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders

of the World—Jordan stands out as a top tourist destination

in the Middle East.

Top 6 Must-Visit Tourist Destinations in Jordan

1. The Rose City – Petra

Carved by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago, Petra is a UNESCO

World Heritage Site (since 1985) and one of the New Seven Wonders

of the World. Famous for its intricate rock-cut architecture, water conduit

systems, and rich cultural heritage, Petra was once a center of

trade and knowledge, showcasing the brilliance of ancient civilizations.

2. Wadi Rum – The Valley of the Moon

Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is one of Jordan’s natural

wonders. Its surreal, Martian-like landscape is a favorite filming location

for Hollywood. Home to nomadic Bedouin tribes, this desert valley

offers a sense of serenity, stargazing opportunities, and breathtaking

views—an ideal spot for adventure and cultural experiences.

3. Amman – City of Seven Hills

The capital of Jordan, Amman, dates back over 9,000 years and has

hosted numerous civilizations, notably the Ammonites, who gave the

city its name. Today, it’s a blend of ancient ruins and modern life, with

historical sites like the Roman Theater, contemporary art galleries, traditional

coffee shops, and stylish restaurants spread across its seven

hills.

4. The Dead Sea – Natural Wonder of the World

At 427 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on

Earth. Known for its healing minerals, therapeutic mud, and unique

floating experience, it is a hub for both leisure tourism and wellness

retreats. A perfect destination to relax while benefiting from the natural

resources.

5. Aqaba – Red Sea Gateway

Located on the northern tip of the Red Sea, Aqaba is a historic city that

served as a key trade link for the ancient world. The Edomites and

Canaanites were among its earliest settlers over 3,000 years ago.

6. Bethany Beyond the Jordan – The Baptism Site

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is believed to be the location where

Jesus (Isa) was baptized by John the Baptist (Yahya). Located near

ancient cities mentioned in the Bible like Sodom, Gomorrah, and Zoar,

it is a major pilgrimage site for Christians.

https://visitjordan.com


Exploring Flanders

The Five Most Visited Cities

Add New Hampshire to

Your Travel Plans

Flanders, the northern region of Belgium, is a treasure trove of

cultural charm, medieval architecture, and culinary delights.

From bustling port cities to storybook towns, these five most

visited Flemish cities offer something for every traveler.

1. Bruges – The Fairy-Tale City

Bruges enchants visitors with its romantic canals, cobbled streets, and

preserved medieval architecture. Often called the “Venice of the

North,” it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Belfry of Bruges

and Markt square are must-sees. A boat ride on the canals or a stroll

through Minnewater Park provides a magical glimpse into the city’s

timeless allure.

2. Ghent – History Meets Youthful Energy

Ghent balances historic grandeur with a vibrant student scene. The

imposing Gravensteen Castle and the Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, home

to the famous Van Eyck altarpiece, highlight its rich past. By night, its

illuminated medieval core buzzes with lively bars and eateries along

the Graslei.

3. Antwerp – Fashion, Art, and Diamonds

Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, is a cosmopolitan hub known

for its fashion scene and diamond trade. The Cathedral of Our Lady

showcases works by Rubens, while the MAS Museum offers insight into

the city’s global connections. Stylish boutiques and buzzing cafés line

the trendy Zuid district.

4. Leuven – A City of Learning and Beer

Leuven, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, exudes youthful

vibrancy. Its stunning Town Hall, adorned with countless statues, is a

Gothic masterpiece. With a long brewing tradition, it’s also the birthplace

of Stella Artois, and beer enthusiasts can enjoy countless options

in the lively Oude Markt.

5. Mechelen – A Hidden Gem

Often overlooked, Mechelen is a charming city with a rich ecclesiastical

heritage. Climb the St. Rumbold’s Tower for panoramic views, or

explore the city’s connection to the Renaissance through its historic

palaces and churches. Family-friendly attractions like Technopolis

make it ideal for all ages.

Together, these cities showcase the heart and soul of Flanders—an

inviting blend of the old and the new, where every cobblestone whispers

a story.

Tucked just south of the Quebec and Maine borders, New

Hampshire transforms into a captivating summer playground

that’s closer than you might think. From soaring mountain vistas

to sun-kissed seacoast towns, the Granite State is packed with outdoor

adventures, cultural gems, and family-friendly fun, making it a

perfect getaway for travelers looking to explore the northeastern U.S.

For outdoor lovers, New Hampshire’s natural diversity is a dream

come true. Hike to the summit of Mount Monadnock — one of the

most climbed mountains in the world. Cruise the scenic Kancamagus

Highway through the White Mountains, where each turn reveals waterfalls,

covered bridges, and inviting trailheads. Prefer water to wilderness?

Paddle down the Saco River, take a dip in pristine lakes, or

explore Lake Winnipesaukee by boat, kayak, or paddleboard.

On the state’s 18 miles of Atlantic coastline, you’ll find Portsmouth—a

walkable port city full of character, history, and culinary flair—and

Hampton Beach, a classic seaside escape with live music, fireworks,

and boardwalk charm.

Families will find plenty to love, too. Ride the Mount Washington Cog

Railway to the Northeast’s highest peak, enjoy a nostalgic drive-in

movie, or cool off at one of the many lakeside state parks. ATV adventures,

ziplines, and alpine slides make it easy to keep kids—and kidsat-heart—entertained.

New Hampshire also delivers when it comes to food and culture.

Sample fresh-off-the-boat seafood along the coast, sip craft beverages

at a brewery, cidery or winery, or catch a summer theatre performance

in one of the state’s quaint small towns. Locally inspired dining

and small-town festivals showcase the region’s warm hospitality

and seasonal bounty.

Whether you're road-tripping from Montreal, flying into Boston and

heading north, or pairing it with a broader New England itinerary,

New Hampshire is a place where summer memories come naturally.

With its mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic charm—all within

a few scenic hours from the border—it’s time to rediscover this oftenoverlooked

gem.

New Hampshire: Close to home, yet a world away.

www.visitnh.gov

www.visitflanders.com/


50

Top Reasons to Visit Malta

1

Malta and its sister islands Gozo and Comino, an archipelago in

the Mediterranean, boast a year round sunny climate. In addition

to Maltese, English is spoken and it is a safe destination, much

less crowded than mainland Europe. From its remarkable 8,000 years of

history, diverse culinary offerings, and an endless calendar of events and

festivals - there is truly something to suit all interests in Malta. Malta is a

member of the EU and the currency is the Euro.

2. Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the European Capital of

Culture 2018, travelers will find themselves engulfed in the rich history

and religious attractions that make up this Maltese Capital. Built by the

Knights of St. John, the city that is bustling by day and now by night, will

transport you back in time with its historic architecture and old world

atmosphere. Exploring the narrow streets will lead you to historical landmarks,

quaint coffee shops and elaborate churches.

3. Luxury for Less

Malta and its sister island of Gozo, deliver the ultimate recipe for luxury,

featuring a diverse range of luxury accommodations from five star properties,

luxury boutique hotels, to historic palazzos and historic farmhouses.

Stay in a restored 16th or 17th-century palazzo, delight in luxury

accommodation built into fortifications of the ancient city of Valletta,

Malta’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, with views across the

Grand Harbour, or seek out the character of the many beautiful boutique

hotels dotted throughout the city, as well as throughout Malta and Gozo.

All this luxury can be found for less in Malta compared to similar accommodations

and exclusive tours in mainland Europe.

4. A Diverse Culinary Experience

Malta offers travelers a diverse culinary experience, from the traditional

plate of eclectic Mediterranean food curated by a relationship between

the Maltese and the countless civilizations that occupied the island, to the

never-ending vineyards delivering the finest wine. Malta continues to

strengthen its presence on the gourmet cuisine map with the 2025 (sixth

edition) MICHELIN Guide Malta featuring Malta’s Two Michelin Star

restaurant added in 2024, in addition to the Six One MICHELIN Star

restaurants (1 new), five Bib Gourmand restaurants and 31 recommended

restaurants (3 new). However, not to be missed, are the local street

foods including the famous Maltese Pastizzi (cheese or pea filled pastries).

5. Year Long Events/Festivals Calendar

With a year long calendar of events and festivals, there is rarely a dull

moment in Malta with a unique, culturally immersive experience always

waiting around the corner. With events like the Malta Arts Festival to

Classic Car Races and the Rolex Middle Sea Sailing Race, there’s a niche

for everyone.

www.visitmalta.com/en

Bhutan unveils a rare cultural experience for

travelers seeking depth, art, and connection

In a Himalayan kingdom known for its deep spirituality and protected

traditions, a new cultural experience is opening doors that

are rarely unlocked for visitors. Travellers to Bhutan can now take

part in an intimate, guided journey into the country’s sacred art, ancient

rituals, and living heritage—set inside a 17th-century building blessed by

saints and rarely open to the public.

This curated three-hour programme, offered by the Choki Traditional Arts

School, blends immersive storytelling with hands-on workshops led by

young artisans, a spiritual blessing ceremony, and rare behind-the-scenes

access to master weavers, woodcarvers, painters, and sculptors at work. It

offers travellers not just a glimpse of Bhutanese culture—but a chance to

step inside it, contribute to its preservation, and leave with their own handpainted

creation.

"Bhutan’s cultural heritage is best experienced through direct engagement,

and the Choki Traditional Art School provides an excellent opportunity for

visitors to connect with our traditions in an authentic way. This experience

aligns with our vision of promoting meaningful travel experiences that support

local communities and preserve Bhutanese craftsmanship," said

Damcho Rinzin, the Director of the Department of Tourism.

Experience Highlights

Spiritual Blessing Ceremony The experience begins with a butter lamp

lighting ceremony before the revered statue of Guru Rinpoche, symbolizing

enlightenment and peace.

Insight into Choki Traditional Art School Visitors will watch a short documentary

detailing the school’s mission and enjoy a cup of CTAS signature

mint tea while learning about its dedication to training young Bhutanese

artisans.

Hands-On Art Workshop Participants will engage in a traditional painting

session, guided by senior students, and create their own artwork to take

home as a cherished souvenir.

Exploring a 17th-Century Treasure Step into a 340-year-old building, consecrated

by Druk Desi Tenzin Rabgye and blessed by The Divine Madman.

This historic structure serves as a living museum, offering insight into

Bhutan’s rich cultural traditions.

Witnessing Artisans at Work Visitors will observe skilled artisans practicing

traditional crafts, including weaving and dyeing, wood carving, bamboo

crafting, thangka painting, and sculpting.

Authentic Bhutanese Handicrafts The Art & Craft Gallery showcases

unique, handmade Bhutanese products. Purchasing these crafts directly

supports local artisans and helps sustain the school’s mission.

www.bhutan.travel


Reno Summer Festivals

The bustling city of Reno Tahoe

welcomes visitors every year for

an unbelievable festival-filled

summer season. From action-packed

rodeos to arts festivals, there is something

for all travelers to enjoy in Reno Tahoe.

Reno River Festival

With an extra day added for the first time

this year, the Reno River Festival will be

making a big splash May 30-June 1. With

over 100 food vendors, and outdoor merchants,

a full-scale music festival with more

than 20 chart-topping headliners, craft beer

and seltzers, adventure parks, carnival

thrills, as well as a new one-of-a-kind run

and raft event.

Reno Rodeo

The 106th Annual Reno Rodeo is ridin’ into

town June 19-28. Dubbed the “Wildest,

Richest Rodeo in the West”, this 10-day

event is a must-do for travelers and locals

alike. Guests can enjoy and/or participate

in a variety of Rodeo events including

Bareback riding, Saddle Bronc, Steer

Wrestling, Team Roping, Women’s Barrel

Racing, and more’. The event takes place at

the Reno-Sparks Livestock Event Center.

Artown

Paint the town Reno! For the entire month of

July, Reno turns into Artown. From Reno’s

local talent to world-renowned artists, this

festival is perfect for art lovers. Festival

attendees can enjoy over 600 arts events,

including concerts, classes, tours, workshops

and exhibits, circus performances, a

chalk art festival, and much more. As the

closest city to Burning Man, art enthusiasts

everywhere can make a pit stop to Reno

and revel in the fascinating creative spirit of

the destination for an unforgettable experience.

www.visitrenotahoe.com

The Ultimate Costa Rican Getaway

Perched atop lush Costa Rican hills in the

Southern Puntarenas zone, Lamangata Luxury

Surf Resort officially opened in January and

boasts impressive views of the surrounding mountains

and the Pacific. Just 10 minutes from world-class surf,

this all-inclusive boutique property offers an unmatched

blend of seclusion and adventure, making for the perfect

adult spring break getaway. With just six luxurious guest

rooms, Lamangata is a true microhotel, but with all the

amenities of a larger retreat. A full resort buy-out is common

at Lamangata, offering a communal feel yet personalized

service, but with separate bedrooms and

ample space for solitude. Guests can take a dip in the

property’s stunning infinity pool canopying over the

mountain's edge, embrace inner peace in the teakwood

yoga studio, indulge in relaxation in the open-air massage

room, take personalized surf resorts, and enjoy

gourmet, locally-sourced cuisine, from homemade ice

cream to edible flowers straight from Lamangata’s onsite

greenhouses.

https://lamangata.com

51


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Amazon Danube Mekong Nile Rhine Rhône Moselle Seine Yangtze

Cruise Travel

W O R L D

Traveler

Cruising Section!

!

Dsvjtf!Ofxt!- pages 54-55

Viking Jupiter Ocean Cruise - page 58

Tjy!Bewfouvspvt!Dsvjtft!- page 60

NTD!Dsvjtft!Sfwfbmt!Gjwf!Usfoet!Esjwjoh!Dibohft!- page 64

Victory II Returns to The Great Lakes - page 66

Tbjmjoh!uif!Mboe!pg!Uxp!Tnjmft!xjui!DspjtjFvspqf!- page 68

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This photo: Viking Ocean Ship in Iceland

Come With Us &

Pacific South Pacific Indian Southern Ocean

Sail The World!


Adriatic Aegean Mediterranean Caribbean Baltic Black South-China Sea

54

AmaWaterways Avalon Azamara Carnival Celebrity Crois

Viking Floats Out

Newest Nile River Ship

C r u i s e N e w s

CroisiEurope is celebrating 30 years on the Rhone and 25 years in Venice

The Rhone CroisiEurope started operating on the Rhône in February 1995 with a cruise

from Chalon to Martigues on the MS Camargue. 30 years on, they now have four ships

on the Rhône offering itineraries in Burgundy and Provence that sail from the wild

expanses of the Camargue to the majestic gorges of the Ardèche, passing through the

Vercors massif and visiting the beautiful cities of Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Lyon and

Vienne.

Venice CroisiEurope started operating in Venice in 2000 with a cruise on the MS

Michelangelo which docked in the heart of the city, very close to Saint Mark’s Square.

Today, CroisiEurope is one of the only operators still allowed to sail into the heart of

Venice with cruises that reveal the splendors of the city and take guests to other historic

towns and cities such as Mantua, Padua, Murano, Burano and Verona.

www.croisieuroperivercruises.com

Virgin Voyages Reveals Showstopping

Entertainment Line-Up Ahead of

Brilliant Lady’s Inaugural Seasons

When Virgin Voyages’ newest Lady

Ship sails into the New York harbour

this September, fans are expecting the

brand’s award-winning entertainment

line-up to be, in a word – Brilliant.

Shaped by customer feedback and the

brand's commitment to continuous

innovation, those aboard will enjoy

even more comedy, live music and immersive storytelling. The entertainment is designed

to keep pace with the ship's adventurous spirit as Brilliant Lady introduces seven new,

original productions. This ship will also bring back reimagined favorites, all designed to

complement Brilliant Lady’s longer itineraries and diverse destinations. Virgin’s new

routes range from five to 16 nights and take Sailors from Bermuda’s pink sands to

Alaska’s majestic landscapes and glacial fjords.

www.virginvoyages.com

Seabourn Announces

145-Day 2027 World

Cruise Aboard the

Seabourn Quest!

Seabourn, a leader in ultraluxury

cruising and expedition

travel, has unveiled its “2027

World Cruise: Australia &

South Pacific Panorama,” a

145-day roundtrip voyage

from Miami that will chart an extraordinary journey through some of the world’s most

captivating regions in the South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand and South America.

Sailing between Jan. 5 and May 30, 2027, the award-winning Seabourn Quest will

travel nearly 34,000 nautical miles and visit 67 destinations in 19 countries.

www.seabourn.com

Viking® has recently announced its newest

ship for the Nile River—the 82-guest Viking

Thoth—was “floated out,” marking a major

construction milestone and the first time the

ship has touched water. Set for delivery in

October 2025, the Viking Thoth will join

Viking’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships

for the Nile River and will sail Viking’s popular

12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary.

The Viking Thoth

& Viking’s Growing Egypt Fleet

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, the new,

state-of-the-art Viking Thoth is inspired by

Viking’s award-winning river and ocean ships,

with the signature Scandinavian design for

which Viking is known. The Viking Thoth features

several aspects familiar to Viking guests,

such as a distinctive square bow and an

indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. In addition to

the Viking Thoth, Viking plans to welcome four

new ships in Egypt in the next two years, which

will bring Viking’s fleet to 12 vessels on the

Nile River by 2027.

Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids Itinerary

During the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary,

guests begin with a three-night stay at a

first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit

iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of

Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque

of Muhammad Ali, or the Grand Egyptian

Museum. Guests then fly to Luxor, where they

visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before

boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day

roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring visits

to the tomb of Nefertari, the tomb of

Tutankhamen, the Temple of Khnum, the

Dendera Temple complex, the temples at Abu

Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a

visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests

can experience a traditional elementary

school. Finally, the journey concludes with a

flight back to Cairo for a final night in the

ancient city.

www.viking.com

Royal-Caribbean Scenic Seabourn SeaDream Silversea

iEurope Crystal Cunard Disney Explora Holland America

55

MSC Cruises Unveils Details of Most

Expansive Retail Offering to Date

Aboard New Flagship

MSC World America

MSC Cruises’ onboard retail experiences

will be brought to another level with a huge

and varied retail offering aboard its flagship,

MSC World America.

MSC World America’s onboard retail highlights

include:

• NEW! “Luxury at Sea”: MSC Cruises’ first

pre-loved accessories concept situated in

the Luxury Accessories shop onboard. The

new concept will give guests the chance to

shop unique, pre-owned high-end items

from brands such as Hermès, Chanel, Dior

& Louis Vuitton.

• NEW! Bulova Pop-Up Shop: an exciting

pop-up experience, located in the ships

vibrant World Galleria, offering a wide

range of watches from the iconic brand.

• NEW! Sif Jakobs Lab-Grown Diamonds: a

first at sea, debuting exclusively on MSC

World America. Situated in the ship’s

Shopping Gallery, guests can discover a

curated selection from Sif Jakobs' radiant

14k gold and lab-grown diamond collection,

with each piece certified and crafted

with care.

• TimeVallée: for the third time in MSC

Cruises’ fleet, the luxury and innovative

watch multi-brand retail concept will offer

access to a curated portfolio of seven prestigious

watch brands (Baume & Mercier,

Cartier, Chopard, Hublot, IWC, Panerai, Tag

Heuer) along with a compelling range of

experiences and services.

• Omega Shop: the fourth single-brand

boutique in MSC Cruises’ fleet, offering the

latest collections.

• World of Jewels - a luxury and innovative

multi-brand boutique, offering a wide

choice of exquisite jewellery from worldrenowned

brands including Chopard,

Messika and RF Jewels.

• Effy Jewellery store: Featuring an exquisite

range of Effy’s fine jewellery.

• Shopping Gallery: 3,918 square feet

(364m2) shopping area offering a range of

products and experiences for guests to

enjoy.

• MSC Shop - showcasing a wide range of

exclusively branded MSC Cruises and MSC

World America merchandise to take home

as souvenirs or as great gifts for loved ones.

www.msccruises.com

Princess Cruises Announces 2026-2027

Southeast Asia Program with Voyages to

Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Japan and More

Princess Cruises has announced its highly anticipated

2026-2027 Southeast Asia cruise season,

offering travelers an effortless way to

explore the vibrant cultures of this region with

acclaimed itineraries.

Diamond Princess will depart from the homeport

of Singapore, taking guests to 28 destinations

across eight countries on 11 sailings, from

November 2026 to March 2027. With durations

ranging from 10 to 31 days, cruises

include late-night stays in Ha Long Bay/Hanoi,

Hong Kong, Bangkok and Kyoto, offering

ample time for exploration.

2026-2027 Southeast Asia

Program Highlights

•10- to 16-day roundtrip sailings from

Singapore visiting Vietnam, Malaysia and

Singapore: Spend the holidays at sea over

Christmas and New Year’s on a 14-day

Malaysia, Thailand & Vietnam itinerary, including

Kuala Lumpur (Port Kelang), Ho Chi Minh

City (Phu My) and Laem Chabang (for

Bangkok).

•16- and 24-day Malaysia, Thailand &

Vietnam itineraries that include UNESCO

World Heritage site Ha Long Bay in Vietnam

(from Cai Lan), as well stops in Phuket and Da

Nang/Hue (Chan May).

•The season begins and concludes sailing

between Singapore and Japan, offering a variety

of options from 14- to 31-days via Taiwan,

Vietnam and includes a late-night More Ashore

visit to Hong Kong.

•31-day Southeast Asia & Japan includes stops

to the beautiful island destinations of Ishigaki

and Okinawa, Kochi as well as Kobe (for

Kyoto).

•Access to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

including the Singapore Botanical Gardens,

established in 1859 with over 10,000 types of

flora and The Historic Monuments of Ancient

Nata from (from Osaka).

www.princess.com

Explora Journeys Unveils

Extraordinary New Itineraries for

Winter 2026-2027

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle

ocean travel brand of the MSC Group,

reveals its highly anticipated Winter

2026-2027 itineraries. This new season

of itineraries spans some of the

world’s most captivating regions, inviting

guests to experience the extraordinary

aboard Explora I, Explora II, and

Explora III, where a unique blend of

ultra-elegance and discovery await.

The brand is expanding into new

regions, unveiling remarkable routes

and maiden ports that promise an

immersive and unforgettable experience.

The new itineraries between

October 2026 and May 2027 include:

• Explora I will sail to idyllic islands in

the vibrant Caribbean, traverse the rich

cultural landscapes of Central and

South America from November 2026

until March 2027, and immerse in the

breathtaking wild and biodiversity of

the Amazon in February 2027.

• Explora II will unveil the mysteries of

the Red Sea and the ever-changing

landscapes of the Arabian Peninsula

from December 2026 until March

2027, where parched deserts and

craggy mountains give way to sublime

coasts and vibrant cities.

• Explora III, the newest fleet addition,

will sail guests on enchanting journeys

through the sun-soaked Caribbean

and Central America from October

2026 until April 2027, continuing

through the Panama Canal to the iconic

Central and North America Pacific

Coast in May 2027.

https://explorajourneys.com

Hurtigruten MSC Norwegian Oceania Ponant Princess Quark Regent

Star-Clippers UnCruise Uniworld Viking Windstar

58

Viking

Viking

A Viking Jupiter Ocean Cruise

Six Things I Loved Most About This Seven-Country Cruise

Article and photography by Judi Cohen (TravelingJudi)

There’s a particular kind of calm

that I felt from the moment I

stepped aboard Viking Jupiter in

Barcelona, for a 15-day cruise, “Trade

Routes of the Middle Ages”, visiting seven

countries and making 10 port calls in

Spain, Portugal, France, England, The

Netherlands, Belgium, with disembarkation

in Bergen, Norway.

From the warm welcome by attentive staff to

the uncluttered, understated elegance of

the Scandinavian design and blond woods,

there was a sense of warmth and coziness

throughout the ship. Viking Jupiter felt like

the kind of small, boutique hotel I prefer

while traveling.

Here are the six things I loved the most

about this Viking cruise:

All-Inclusive, Without the Catch

One of the most refreshing things about this

cruise was what wasn’t constantly being sold.

Specialty dining? Included. Shore excursions

in every port? Also included. The Nordic spa,

with its snow grotto, pool

and steam room? Absolutely included. There

was no upselling, no surprise charges, and

no need to keep my credit card handy. Wine,

beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner?

Included. Even the drink package was

refreshingly reasonable, and à la carte wine

prices were fair. Viking does not charge a

corkage fee for wines you bring onboard.

I never once had to think about paying

extra for Wi-Fi, specialty dining, or using the

gym. Everything was included, and it made

a world of difference. I was free to fully

immerse myself in the joy of the journey. I

felt pampered and unbothered, and that to

me, is the ultimate luxury.

One of the places I had dreamed of visiting

for years was finally in reach on this voyage.

A premium shore excursion, offered in

Portsmouth, was a half-day tour of

Stonehenge. Without hesitation I turned one

of my dreams into a memory on this cruise.

I stood at the edge of the Salisbury Plain in

silent awe, the ancient stones of

Stonehenge silhouetted against a blue sky.

These long-awaited moments were unfor-


gettable, but so too were the unexpected

delights in other ports, where I joined

included excursions and explored independently.

Le Havre charmed me with its

modernist concrete architecture, including

St. Joseph’s Church, while Amsterdam’s

Spring tulips, lively canals, and walkable

neighborhoods quickly became a favorite.

Small Ship, Big Comfort

The Viking Jupiter felt intimate without being

crowded. The ship holds 930 guests, but

there were only 860 guests on my sailing.

There was always a quiet spot to be found,

whether in the cozy library nooks, the

Explorer’s Lounge, or the spa’s warm stone

loungers. My cabin, like the ship itself, was

thoughtfully designed for comfort and practicality.

Heated floors in the bathroom were

a welcome treat, especially on cooler mornings

in the North Atlantic Ocean. The

plumbing fixtures were easy to use, and

even the toiletries were tailored to older

travelers, with large-print labels and easyto-open

packaging.

This wasn’t just a cruise; it was an invitation

to slow down and let my adventurous spirit

shine. The ship itself felt like a sanctuary. It

was elegant, quiet, and thoughtfully curated

for travelers who value learning as much as

leisure. My days onboard were filled with

just the right amount of activity: enjoying

classical music performances in the soaring

atrium, or simply curling up in the

Explorer’s Lounge with a cappuccino and a

book as the coastline drifted by.

Service That Anticipates Your Needs

Every interaction I had with the crew left me

impressed. Whether it was my room stewards,

Jinny and Kenny remembering my

love of chocolate, the spa attendant offering

an extra towel before I could ask, or the

waitstaff at Manfredi’s and the Chefs Table

greeting me by name, the level of attentiveness

was exceptional. It’s clear that Viking

invests in their staff, and it shows. There

were always enough people around to

help, yet I never felt overwhelmed or hovered

over.

Dining: Casual or Elegant, Always Delicious

Meals were another highlight, beautifully prepared,

regionally inspired, and always

accompanied by complimentary wine, beer

or a soft drink.

From the casual bites at Mamsen’s (those

Norwegian waffles, split pea soup, traditional

cakes, are reason enough to sail again!) to

elegant multi-course themed meals with wine

pairing at The Chef’s Table, every meal felt

like a treat. I loved that I could turn up in The

Restaurant or enjoy an extensive buffet in the

World Café, which featured freshly made

sushi, creative salads and multiple carving

stations, wearing jeans and a sweater, or

dress up a little for a refined Italian dinner at

Manfredi’s. The flexibility to be casual or polished,

depending on my mood, was a quiet

luxury I appreciated.

Afternoon Tea was served at 4:00pm each

day in the whimsical Wintergarden, while the

Pool Grill served up scrumptious lobster tails,

grilled shrimp, cheeseburgers and fries.

Enrichment and Entertainment That Matter

Viking’s commitment to cultural enrichment is

one of the reasons I keep returning. Onboard

lectures by historians and local experts added

depth to each destination. I came away not

only relaxed, but also inspired and informed.

The evening entertainment struck a lovely balance,

with classical performances in the

Atrium, guitar and vocal sets in the Explorers

Lounge, or cabaret type shows with singing

and dancing in the Star Theatre.

Thoughtful Touches, Start to Finish

Everything from booking to disembarkation

was handled with care. Viking booked my

flights, arranged transfers, and clearly communicated

the physical demands of each

shore excursion through briefings, port talks,

and detailed guides. As someone who appreciates

knowing what to expect, I felt empowered

and supported.

Accessibility was clearly a priority on

59

the ship. Elevators were plentiful,

and the ship was easy to navigate.

While some excursions required climbing a

few bus steps, Viking reserved front seats for

those who needed them.

In addition to paid laundry service, each

cabin deck had a self-service laundry room

with washers, dryers and ironing boards,

and complimentary laundry detergent.

Final Thoughts

As our ship entered the harbor in Bergen,

nestled among Norway’s fjords and mountains,

I reflected on how rich this journey

had been. In just two weeks, I had visited

seven countries, explored ten diverse and

fascinating ports, and finally stood in the

places I had long dreamed of.

What made this cruise exceptional was the

way it blended depth with ease. From inclusive

onboard comforts to the enriching,

iconic and the unexpected, experiences

ashore, Viking delivered it all.

Viking has three categories of ships, and

I’ve been fortunate to experience them all in

different regions. The ocean ships, like

Viking Jupiter, with a capacity of 930 passengers

sail worldwide, Viking’s Expedition

ships accommodating 378 guests, visit

Antarctica, the Great Lakes, and the high

Arctic. The Viking longships with space for

190 passengers navigate Europe’s rivers,

while Viking also has distinctively designed

vessels for the Nile, Mekong, and the

Mississippi rivers.

Across every ship, Viking maintains impeccable

design and décor, superior onboard

service and amenities, as well as thoughtful,

included shore excursions and enrichment

programs. When booking with Viking, airfare,

insurance and transfers can be

arranged, making the entire journey seamless

and stress-free.

www.viking.com

Viking


Six Adventurous Cruises for Intrepid Travelers

Article and photography by Nicholas Kontis

Quark Expeditions Aurora Expeditions Poseidon Expeditions

Amazon Nature Tours Variety Cruises UnCruise Adventures

Expedition cruises extend to

some of Earth’s most fragile

and captivating lands with itineraries

that focus on nature and culture.

Traditional cruises may offer a robust

choice of onboard activities and a seemingly

endless number of food options, but

expedition cruises have a very different

motivation: They are led by scientists,

marine biologists, historians and other

experts. And no two cruises are ever the

same.

The experience of traveler Gabriela

Ramos on a Quark Expeditions cruise is

illustrative. “I was awestruck when hundreds

of Emperor penguins surrounded

me on a stopover at South Georgia

Island,” she said. “To keep a responsible

distance from these amazing flightless

birds, yet to be so up close and personal,

was an experience that will be etched in

my heart and soul forever.”

That could never have happened on a traditional

cruise with thousands of fellow

passengers. Expedition cruises mount their

intrepid voyages on smaller ships with a

capacity of under 200 guests. They utilize

Zodiac craft for daily landings on wilderness

shores to discover unforgettable

landscapes and diverse wildlife in their

natural habitat. Often they will be greeted

by indigenous communities and other

local people.

Quark Expeditions Quark Expeditions Aurora Expeditions


Here are six expedition cruises that offer a

range of opportunities — polar routes to

Antarctica and Greenland, a transit of the

Panama Canal to the biodiverse shores of

Costa Rica and Panama, discovering

Polynesian culture in Tahiti, marveling at

marine life in the Sea of Cortez, and

exploring the world’s largest rainforest in

the Amazon.

Quark Expeditions

Since the early 1990s, Quark Expeditions

has been at the forefront of polar expedition

cruises, boasting the largest polarclass

fleet in the industry. One of its most

popular voyages is the South Georgia and

Antarctic Peninsula Penguin Safari, which

climate conditions make feasible only

between October and March.

My 16-day voyage with 127 other travelers

began in Buenos Aires. We flew to

Ushuaia, Argentina, to board Quark’s

newest vessel, the Ultramarine, then

crossed the tumultuous Drake Passage to

South Georgia Island and icy Antarctica,

Earth’s southernmost continent.

The only settlement in South Georgia is

the tiny hamlet of Grytviken, where visitors

might find the landmark grave of Sir

Ernest Shackleton, the charismatic polar

explorer from Ireland. But I came to see

penguins, which inhabit the island in

incredible numbers. There’s a good reason

why Quark promotes this as its

“Penguin Safari”: South Georgia is home

to four species of penguins and more than

30 other species of breeding birds.

The Ultramarine accommodates up to 199

guests and 140 staff and crew. It is

designed for comfortable sailings in

rougher waters, meaning it is well prepared

to plow the treacherous Drake

Passage.

Why go: In a word, penguins. Iconic honking

emperor penguins and a fantastic bird

diversity are on display. The Ultramarine is

both functional and cozy, with large staterooms.

The southern polar region is a paradise

for landscape photographers.

Scenes such as clouds floating over snowcapped

peaks, towering above the open

sea, must have enchanted Shackleton.

www.quarkexpeditions.com

Aurora Expeditions

The tropical rainforests of Costa Rica and

Panama are among the most biologically

diverse on our planet. Aurora Expeditions’

14-day Costa Rica and the Panama Canal

cruise, aboard the high-tech vessel Greg

Mortimer, is a wonderful way to explore

the region.

Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio and

Corcovado National Parks are home to

sloths, parrots, macaws and four species

of monkeys — capuchin, howler, spider,

and squirrel. Well-tended hiking trails link

white-sand beaches with rugged rainforest.

Panama’s Coiba National Marine

Park reveals a wealth of oceanic creatures.

Cruise passengers can snorkel in colorful

reefs, kayak through a tranquil bay, and

enjoy stand-up paddle boarding.

Also in Panama, travelers visit a village of

indigenous Emberá Drua people and take

a guided tour of Panama City’s charismatic

old town, Casco Viejo. A day crossing of

the remarkable Panama Canal, through

the locks from the Pacific Ocean to the

Caribbean Sea, is a bucket-list experience.

Why go: Besides the array of biodiversity,

many travelers consider the 50-mile transit

of the Panama Canal, through the jungles

from the Pacific to the Caribbean, to

be the adventure of a lifetime. Aurora

guarantees a daylight crossing of the

world’s most famous canal. Expert expedition

guides explain the history and workings

of the channel on the annual sailing,

which begins in April.

The Greg Mortimer is a comfortable

61

expedition ship. Observation decks,

spread throughout the boat, are

ideal for mingling with crew and other

guests and enjoying scenic views, especially

sunsets.

www.aurora-expeditions.com

Poseidon Expeditions

The Arctic contains some of the last

untouched wilderness and the vastest

open spaces on Earth. It is defined by

colossal glaciers that shimmer in the summer’s

midnight sun, lofty icebergs, picturesque

fjords, and mountains in polychromatic

stripes. In Greenland, polar bears

outnumber humans.

In 2022, I realized an Arctic dream that

had been delayed two years by the Covid

pandemic, as I joined Poseidon’s voyage

from the Svalbard archipelago to

Greenland and Iceland. I flew to

Longyearbyen, Norway, on Spitsbergen

Island, home to 2,400 residents from 53

countries—and the port from which many

Arctic adventures begin.

Following in the footsteps of Norwegian

explorer Roald Amundsen, Poseidon’s

expedition extends to the untouched eastern

shore of Greenland and remote parts

of volcanic Iceland, as well as colorful

Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital.

Why go: The incomparable Arctic is a

unique and remote destination. Seeing the

Northern Lights alone might be reason

enough to visit this trifecta of some of the

northernmost terrains in the world. These

pristine landscapes, mostly devoid of people,

are home to 36 different species of

mammals, including polar bears. This

makes any Arctic expedition a grand

adventure.

www.poseidonexpeditons.com

Aurora Expeditions




62

Amazon Nature Tours

Variety Cruises

UnCruise Adventures

Amazon Nature Tours

The best way to view the Amazon jungle

ecosystem — better even than a stay at a

remote lodge — is aboard an expedition

cruise. Amazon Nature Tours’ small-ship

“Voyage to the Heart of the Amazon” is a

luxurious alternative.

The Amazon River has over 1,100 tributaries,

17 of them more than 1,000 miles

long. Comprising 4 million square miles,

the Amazon Basin holds two-thirds of all

flowing water in the world. In the heart of

the rainy season (December to May), the

river discharges more than 32 million gallons

of water per second. Its gargantuan

main channel can be as wide as 10 miles,

sometimes making it impossible to see one

side from the other.

The purposely built motor yacht Tucano

carries no more than 18 guests on its

expeditions from Manaus, Brazil’s paradoxical

modern city in the heart of the jungle.

The Tucano ventures nearly 200 miles

further up the mammoth river than other

vessels, making its voyage almost twice as

long. Exquisite and spacious decks and

deluxe staterooms make this an epic

adventure.

Why go: Fish for piranha. Stop for a piranha-free

swim. Meet indigenous tribes at

village stopovers. Marvel at the abundance

of wildlife, including spider monkeys,

sloths, macaws and caimans. The

mighty Amazon will always be an explorer’s

dream, a natural wonder, an ecosystem

unrivaled in diversity and size.

www.naturetours.com

Variety Cruises

When travelers conjure images of French

Polynesia or Tahiti, the first thing to come

to mind is often the supermodel island of

Bora Bora with its luxurious hotels — like

the iconic Four Seasons Bora Bora, its

swanky over-the-water bungalows offering

unblemished views of omnipresent Mount

Otemanu.

For travelers wanting to visit multiple

islands during a shorter visit, Variety

Cruises’ “Tahiti and French Polynesia” itinerary

might be more suitable. A small-ship

Greek cruise line, Variety offers sevenand

10-night circuits of the Society Islands

from the Tahitian capital of Papeete. At

164 feet, the double-masted motor sailor

Panorama II has 25 ocean-view cabins

with a capacity of 49 guests and 18 crew.

My seven-night cruise brought me to Bora

Bora as well as the islands of Moorea,

Huahine, Taha’a and Raiatea. The longer

voyage extends to the far-flung and rarely

visited Tuamotu island group, including

Makatea, Rangiroa and Tikehau.

Why go: A Variety cruise is like sailing with

one big happy family, and island-hopping

aboard the Panorama II evokes a sense of

South Pacific exploration reminiscent of

Captain James Cook. Travelers encounter

native people showcasing their daily way

of life. Incredible snorkeling in clandestine

blue lagoons, visits to unpretentious

beaches and excellent onboard cuisine,

make traveling to Tahiti more than worth

the effort.

www.varietycruises.com

UnCruise Adventures

Oceanographic pioneer Jacques

Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez “the

world’s aquarium.” The UNESCO World

Heritage Site lives up to that designation.

That’s why the UnCruise Adventures tour,

“Baja California’s Whales and Sea Life,”

is so popular with travelers who love the

nature of a marine environment.

I traveled around the Sea of Cortez for

seven days with an intimate group of curious

explorers. We swam with sea lions

and whale sharks, and encountered many

of the nine species of whales that roam

the isolated waters in the winter months.

UnCruise, which began business as a single

yacht sailing Alaskan waters, now also

offers voyages to Hawaii, Costa Rica and

Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands. Its 10-day

Sea of Cortez cruise follows a six-week

journey by famed author John Steinbeck

aboard a sardine boat in 1940.

Why go: This a quest for endemic flora,

fauna, and secluded beaches on desert

islands and other nature preserves in Baja

California’s “Galapagos of the North.”

Eco-activities include snorkeling, hiking,

paddleboarding, kayaking and horseback

riding. Stopovers are in Isla San Jose,

Bahia Agua Verde, Isla San Francisco,

Parque Nacional Bahia de Loreto, Los

Islotes, Isla Partida, Isla Carmen, and the

area’s crown jewel, Isla Espiritu Santo.

www.uncruise.com

Amazon Nature Tours

Variety Cruises

UnCruise Adventures


MSC Cruises Reveals Five Trends Driving Changes in Guest Travel Decisions for 2025 and Beyond

Whether it’s switching traditionally

hot getaways for something

a little cooler or booking

the next trip thanks to the latest hit TV show

or film, MSC Cruises is revealing five travel

trends that are driving guest holiday decisions

into 2025 and beyond.

MSC Cruises, a leading global cruise brand

is giving an insight into some important influences

that are impacting how holidaymakers

are researching and booking cruises, with

trends like radical sabbaticals, coolcations,

set-jetting and more shifting the way guests

are deciding where, and how to travel.

Coolcations on the Rise

In 2025, cooler destinations are rising in

popularity as travelers seek out milder climates

in place of traditional ‘summer sun’

hotspots. More and more holidaymakers are

switching walks on the beach for walks in the

mountains and sunbathing for basking in

breathtaking landscapes. This trend, dubbed

‘coolcation’ draws explorers towards destinations

that offer natural wonders to discover

and pristine landscapes to admire.

Anyone resonating with this trend should look

out for MSC Cruises’ itineraries to Northern

Europe or Alaska. In 2026, MSC Cruises will

set sail for the first time to Alaska. Known for

its breathtaking scenery, rugged wilderness,

and abundant wildlife, guests will be able to

enjoy the region’s unparalleled beauty and

rich cultural heritage aboard MSC Poesia

sailing from Seattle, U.S weekly throughout

summer 2026.

Radical Sabbaticals

Over the last few years, with workplaces

being increasingly more flexible with remote

work, and more companies offering sabbaticals

as an employment perk, there’s a

heightened eagerness to take extended work

breaks in the middle of careers to travel. This

has driven the rise of the ‘radical sabbatical’.

MSC Cruises’ World Cruise is the perfect

solution, giving people the opportunity to

embark on a voyage of a lifetime to circumnavigate

the globe without having to repack

their suitcase or take endless flights.

Departing Europe in January 2025 and

2026 (with the 2027 sailing soon to be

revealed), in the comfort of a modern and

elegant balcony cabin, guests can experience

up to 50 destinations across up to 32

different countries. With alongside day calls

that allow guests plenty of time to explore the

best that each destination has to offer, the

itinerary also offers a number of overnight

stays, meaning guests can have even more

time to fully immerse themselves in the culture,

history and landscapes of the destinations

they visit.

Set-jetting: Travel Inspired by Popular Culture

Another emerging travel trend for 2025 is

‘set-jetting’, where travelers are inspired to

visit a destination because of a book, movie

or television series. This phenomenon has

gained momentum with the rise of globally

accessible streaming platforms, allowing

audiences to connect emotionally with the

settings of their favourite stories.

With its unparalleled choice of destinations

to explore, MSC Cruises offers more than

one itinerary featuring some of the world’s

most iconic cultural and cinematic landscapes.

From sailing aboard MSC Opera in

the Mediterranean to discovering the stunning

old city of Dubrovnik (Croatia), a

UNESCO World Heritage Site made infamous

by the hit TV show Game of Thrones,

to embarking on a journey through the

Middle East aboard MSC Euribia, including

calls to Dubai and Abu Dhabi (UAE), the set

of not one but two Mission Impossible films,

or for the ultimate Sex and the City fan, sail

from New York City (U.S.) aboard MSC

Meraviglia, and follow in the footsteps of

Carrie through the streets of Manhattan.

The Craving for Culinary Tourism

Food has become much more than just a

part of the travel experience, it’s now a driving

force behind destination choices. Fuelled

by appreciation for diverse flavours, social

media’s influence, and a desire to discover

new tastes, culinary tourism is surging in

popularity. More travelers than ever are now

planning trips specifically to explore unique

restaurants or culinary experiences, planning

to immerse themselves in local food markets,

take part in specialist cooking workshops

or heading out on a tasting tour.

Not only does MSC Cruises sail to a vast

range of famed foodie hotspots such as

Naples, Palermo (Italy), Barcelona (Spain)

and Buenos Aires (Argentina), but guests can

also book a range of culinary shore excursions

such visiting charming wineries in the

Italian countryside to taste local wine,

savouring delicious tapas in Alicante (Spain),

or attempting at recreating Greek dishes

during a cooking workshop in a family-run

olive oil mill located in the heart of the traditional

agricultural region of Katakolon

(Greece).

The Desire for Elevated All-inclusive Holidays

All-inclusive holidays have long been a

favourite for their ease and convenience, but

there has been a noticeable shift in preferences.

Today, travelers are increasingly willing

to spend more for an elevated all-inclusive

experience that balances traditional simplicity

with touches of exclusivity. This evolution

caters to a growing desire for thoughtfully

curated, high-quality getaways that go

beyond the basics.

MSC Cruises redefines the all-inclusive holiday

with the MSC Yacht Club. The luxury

‘ship within a ship’ concept offers an elevated

and refined all-inclusive concept with private

facilities including dedicated restaurant

and lounge, 24-hour butler service and private

sundeck, all with keycard-only access,

and within easy reach of everything a larger

ship has to offer.

https://www.msccruises.com


66

Victory II Returns to The Great Lakes: A New Era in Small Ship Cruising

Article and photography by Judi Cohen (Traveling Judi)

On a sunny spring morning, with

the magnificent Chicago skyline

in the background, our Great

Lakes adventure aboard Victory II’s inaugural

voyage began at Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier.

Upon embarkation, we attended the ship's

christening ceremony in the Compass

Lounge, where CEO, John Waggoner, delivered

a moving speech about the company's

history and vision. Both the American and

Canadian national anthems were performed.

It was a heartwarming ceremony, blending

family, celebration, and a spirit of unity. It was

an apt beginning to a cruise in Canada and

the United States.

It was touching to see Mr. Waggoner well up

with tears when introducing his 12-year-old

granddaughter, Molly Applegate, Victory II’s

Godmother. Molly and the family proceeded

to the bow of the ship to christen Victory II

with the smashing a bottle of Maker’s Mark

Kentucky bourbon against the bow, drawing

loud cheers and applause!

Sailing away at sunset from Navy Pier afforded

a glorious view of the city one last time

before our epic Great Lakes journey.

A Classic Small Ship with Modern Comforts

Victory II is small and nimble, measuring just

under 300 feet in length with a capacity of

190 passengers. Designed for comfort rather

than flash, she offers a welcoming atmosphere,

with elegant wood interiors and comfy

furnishings styled in nautical blues and

creams. It felt like sailing in my summer cottage,

albeit with many welcome bells and

whistles!

The ship’s size and layout made it convenient

to move around from one deck to the next

and to access dining, lounges, observation

decks, the gym, the spa and the purser’s

desk. All were located next to a central staircase

with one elevator servicing all decks

except for the sun deck which could be

accessed by stairs only. We never needed a

deck plan or directions, although a deck plan

was posted on the wall on every deck. It was

simple and intuitive.

Cozy Cabin

Our cozy, well-appointed Ocean View

Stateroom with twin beds and two large windows

was located on Deck 4 accessed directly

from the Promenade deck. While the cabin

did not have a balcony there were two chairs

outside our cabin. It was relatively small (161


sq. ft.), but the cabin was very well designed

with lots of drawers, closets, shelves and two

desks. Even with the two of us (and considering

that we each overpacked), everything

found a place without difficulty. The cabin

was also equipped with a hair dryer, bar

fridge and safety deposit box.

The bathroom had a large shelf below the

sink for all our toiletry items. The shower was

quite small with a ‘clingy’ shower curtain,

however the powerful water pressure and the

heated floor, more than compensated for

that. Any mention of the ‘clingy’ shower curtain

became an endearing and funny conversation-starter

among guests!

Each morning our stateroom attendant, Mas,

refreshed the luxe bed linens, fine quality

soap, shampoo, shower gel, fluffy white towels,

bathrobes and slippers, returning in the

evening to turn down our cabin. We looked

forward to the small locally sourced gifts and

cards left on our pillows at turndown, especially

the dark chocolate-covered cherries,

and the box of Mackinac Island fudge.

A Relaxed Daily Routine

Entertainment, Enrichment and Activities

Days aboard Victory II followed an unhurried

rhythm balancing activity and downtime.

Mornings and afternoons featured shore

excursions at each port of call. Guests could

do as many or few as they wanted. For those

remaining onboard for all or part of the day,

there were movies and enrichment lectures,

coffee, drinks and craft-making in the

Compass Lounge. Some mornings, enrichment

talks were given by Ian, the Victory II

Lakelorian, about the history and ecology

and economic importance of the Great

Lakes, as well as on the freighters carrying

raw materials. Victory Cruise Lines partnered

with the National Museum of the Great Lakes

in Toledo to offer these immersive onboard

lectures. With two sea days on our itinerary

there was ample time to relax, play trivia

games, do puzzles or just watch the passing

scenery in the lounge and bar. Evenings

included a port talk by Madeline. Bacha,

Victory II’s Shore Experience Manager, predinner

cocktails and canapes in the lounge,

and live music and dancing after dinner.

There were no flashy Broadway-style shows

or casinos on this ship, however, with the

Victory II band and the talented singer

Michaelyn Oby, I can confidently say it was

the best entertainment of any small ship I

have cruised on.

Cuisine and Service That Rivals Top Restaurants

Victory II has two dining venues, the Coastal

Dining Room on Deck 1, and the Grill on

Deck 4.

The Grill was a lovely space at the stern with

windows all around for a panoramic view

that made it feel like we were dining al fresco!

Breakfasts, served in The Grill and in the

Coastal Dining Room, were leisurely affairs

with daily smoothies, Greek yogurt, fresh

fruit, omelets, and croissants that rivaled any

Parisian bakery. At lunch there were sandwiches

and salads, as well as daily fish, meat

and soup.

Dinner in the Coastal Dining Room was a

grand experience, with starter choices including

beer-battered Wisconsin Cheese Curd

and Seafood Chowder, a variety of pasta

dishes suitable for vegetarians, and main

courses such as perfectly seared duck breast,

Michigan Bluegill fish cakes, grilled Red

Grouper, and filet mignon, all paired with

thoughtfully selected wines. The dessert creations

tempted our sweet tooth at every meal,

with the likes of chocolate fondant cake,

crème brulé, along with house made ice

creams and sorbets.

The Grill transformed for dinner into The

Tuscan Stone Grill specialty dining venue.

Reservations were required but there was no

additional cost. We cooked lamb, steak,

shrimp and fish on an individual hot lava

stone. Side dishes were served once our main

courses were cooked. Appetizers and desserts

could be ordered from the daily menu.

With both the Fleet Executive Chef, Dariusz

from Anglo Eastern, and Executive Chef, Ron,

from Victory II on our sailing, every meal felt

like an ‘event’ with menus curated to reflect

both local flavors and global tastes. Coupled

with the exceptional service staff, meals were

delightful and indulgent. This did not feel like

an inaugural voyage at all in terms of the

culinary experience. Everything was perfect!

Itinerary Highlights- Shore Excursions

Our 10-day itinerary touched all five

of the Great Lakes, with six ports of

call (Mackinac Island, Escanaba, Cleveland,

Detroit, Sault Ste. Marie, and Port Colborne)

between Chicago and Toronto. Included

excursions were offered in every port. Our

favorites were a horse carriage tour on

Mackinac Island, a visit to the Rock & Roll

Hall of Fame in Cleveland, and most notably

a trip to Niagara Falls for a wet and wonderful

voyage into the Horseshoe Falls.

We found the Immersive excursion from the

Port of Detroit to the National Museum of the

Great Lakes and a tour of the James M.

Schoonmaker Museum Ship in Toledo to be

outstanding. In Cleveland, the Premium

excursion to the Stan Hywet Hall and

Gardens, the former estate of F.A. Seiberling,

the co-founder of the Goodyear Tire

Company was fabulous, and on Mackinac

Island we also opted for a Premium excursion

for a Grand Luncheon at the historic Grand

Hotel, allowing us to admire the colorful

Dorothy Draper-designed interiors and sit on

the longest porch in the world.

Final Thoughts

Sailing aboard Victory II felt deeply personal,

from the heartfelt christening at Chicago’s

Navy Pier to the final sunrise in Toronto, my

lifelong hometown. Victory II’s outstanding

food and service, the comprehensive Great

Lakes itinerary, and the expert-led enrichment

combined to create a perfect trifecta. It was a

cruise that combined intimacy, history, learning,

and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a firsttime

visitor to the region or a returning traveler

like me, this Great Lakes voyage with

Victory Cruise Lines is hard to beat.

Victory Cruise Lines’ fare includes one precruise

hotel night, transfers to and from the

ship, one shore excursion in each port, unlimited

Wi-Fi, unlimited beverages wine, spirits,

craft beers and speciality coffees), and all

meals and services onboard.

https://victorycruiselines.com

67


68

Sailing Through the Land of Two Smiles with CroisiEurope


Full steam ahead as we set sail to

discover some of the highlights

found along the Mekong River and

Delta. Life could not be any better as we

would discover these magnificent

Cambodian and Vietnamese destinations

from our luxurious home base on the RV

Indochine II, CroisiEurope’s flagship in

Asia.

On board, there is nothing left to chance, as

everything is designed for comfort to enjoyment.

CroisiEurope’s cruise was filled with

plenty of activities and yet gave us enough

downtime to enjoy this beautiful ship and be

pampered by a genuinely happy crew each

day.

There was at least one daily port of call, and

everything was included, from transportation

to shore, guided tours of spectacular

monuments, markets, temples, and even

shows were included. The only thing to

remember is to bring personal items and

bring back happy memories as the crew

took care of every little detail to make every

excursion memorable and enjoyable.

Day one was a wonderful way to start our

nine-day journey. In Angkor Wat, situated in

Siam Reap, our visit was nothing short of

spectacular. We were up at dawn to witness

the rising of the sun that silhouetted the fantastic

structures and then spent the day discovering

this massive ancient site. Beyond

Angkor Wat, there was a multitude of sites

to visit, so much so that the average visitor

would surely run out of time, while the history

buffs could easily spend a week here.

Of all the cruise line companies that sail the

Mekong, CroisiEurope is the only one that

sails on Lake Tonle Sap. This special portion

of the cruise would take us to out of the way

places that have very few tourists. By the


time we finally caught up with the other luxury

ships a couple of days later, we would

have visited just about everything that contrasts

to Siam Reap, including a village

where an elderly man would find his way up

to the tops of Sugar Palm trees to gather sap

used for everyday cooking. In the same village,

we would find others making an

assortment of clay objects using an ancient

method. If this was not enough, we visited a

Buddhist monastery and historical temple.

Just getting there was an experience on its

own as we rode by ox cart through rice paddies,

experienced local villages and discovered

a wonderful and sometimes serene

lifestyle that explorers dream about.

On another excursion, we would be treated

to a village that specializes in producing

amazing looking bronze ware. This would

seem to be an art that has been passed

down for many generations where personal

dwellings are also the workshops for melting,

shaping and artfully designing great

looking pieces used in everyday life as well

as for home decor and in temples. This was

yet another unexpected dimension of

Cambodia.

Onwards to the last leg of our Cambodia

portion where we would find ourselves in

the national capital of Phnom Penh.

CroisiEurope would organize an orientation

tour by no less than a tuk-tuk. On this

extremely hot day we would be cooled by

wind as we navigate through the central

parts to discover that the city is both hectic

and congested, but compared to other capitals,

slow paced and inviting. The newer

high-rise buildings contrasted drastically to

the historical French quarters.

The following day we would rediscover

Phnom Penh and visit it’s most famous and

popular sites, including the breathtaking

and spotless grounds of the royal palace,

the national museum and the retention center

that was used for interrogating and torturing

citizens during the Khmer Rouge

days.

All along our journey, we would feast like

kings, and yet keep in shape as the wonderful

Cambodian and Vietnamese cuisine is

lean on fats, yet incredibly nutritious,

healthy, and tasty. This was the same on

board our ship, as CroisiEurope had many

choices of local, French and international

dishes. This is one cruise which I actually

ended up being the same weight as when

we started, not only that, but I actually felt

full of energy and in top shape.

Continuing south towards the sea, we

would now find ourselves in another country.

Although Cambodia and Vietnam are

neighbors, there was a definite difference

in culture and atmosphere. Where

Cambodia was rather calm, Vietnam, that

has many times its population, was rather

charged. Generally speaking, the citizens

were more active, boisterous and seemingly

more industrious.

Here we would visit charming villages, take

a canal tour, visit local markets, world-class

museums, historical temples, a large pottery

factory, a war zone that included Viet

Cong tunnels, blasted out tanks, and even

the shooting gallery where visitors, for a

price, could fire off a choice of assault

weapons such as an AK-47.

Our long cruise navigated the many tributaries

of the Delta and ended up in Ho Chi

Minh City. This large metropolis has so

much to see and do that it would take the

better part of a week to explore. Navigating

the streets at rush-hour was both hectic,

dangerous and a rush of adrenaline as

there was an unbelievable number of

scooters and motorcycles that drive in every

direction and even on sidewalks. This

bustling city has its colonial past and yet is

pointed straight towards the 21st-century.

CroisiEurope sure has a winner on this

route that immerses any visitor to South-

East Asia in its delights. Coupled with a luxurious

a state-of-the-art vessel, fantastic

service, great cuisine and a wonderful itinerary,

there is no better way of visiting the

Mekong in style, safety, and comfort.

www.croisieurope.travel/en

69


Adventure Canada Announces New Vessels for 2026

combine our expertise and shared vision to

provide unforgettable experiences for all passengers.

Adventure Canada shares our core

values, including responsible exploration,

authentic discovery of destinations, and

respect for local cultures."

Exploris One

Ocean Nova

In 2026 Adventure Canada will offer the following

expeditions aboard Exploris One:

Spirit of Scotland (formerly Scotland Slowly),

Scotland, the Faroe Islands, & Iceland: North

Atlantic Saga, Iceland Circumnavigation,

Iceland to Greenland: In the Wake of Vikings,

Into the Northwest Passage, Out of the

Northwest Passage, and Greenland and Wild

Labrador: A Torngat Mountains Adventure.

After 10 happy years on Ocean Endeavour, Adventure Canada is moving to Exploris One

and Ocean Nova in 2026. The leader in small ship expedition cruising is excited to offer their

iconic program, focused on education, immersion, and fun, on the updated vessels.

Adventure Canada is excited to

announce two new-to-them vessels

for the 2026 operating season.

The vessels, Exploris One and Ocean

Nova, offer increased comfort to guests and

a more intimate experience with a capacity of

144 and 78 guests, respectively. Of course,

the same fantastic Adventure Canada programming,

service, and experience will

remain.

“We are thrilled to be operating on Exploris

One and Ocean Nova for the 2026 season

and beyond,” says Cedar Swan, CEO of

Adventure Canada. “These ships set the

foundation for adventure perfectly with the

facilities and capability to operate in challenging

Arctic conditions safely while facilitating

meaningful, educational, and fun-filled

programs in the most beautiful and moving

places in the world. The new vessels will

increase the comfort of our guests with

enhanced shipboard facilities and allow us to

continue with our immersive shore-side experiences

as well. They truly offer us the best of

both worlds, and we couldn’t be more excited

to welcome our guests to these vessels in

2026.”

Operating on both vessels will also allow

Adventure Canada to offer more trips, with a

small but steady increase in trips offered in

2026 and beyond. Key considerations in

selecting both vessels included analysis of

their carbon footprint and environmental

impact, proven track record of safety and

experience operating in ice and Arctic conditions,

and guest comfort and capacity.

Exploris One, a vessel with capacity for 144

guests and operated by Silversea Cruises

until 2023, was purpose-built for expedition

travel in 1989, making it well-suited for polar

environments and comfortable exploration.

Having undergone several refurbishments –

the latest in 2018 and 2023 – the ship is well

appointed with 72 staterooms and suites,

many with balconies, two restaurants, a fully

equipped fitness area, outdoor jacuzzies,

sauna, steam room, and massage facilities.

In addition, the vessel offers common areas

for lounging, reading, participating in workshops,

presentations, performances, and

attending daily briefings with a learning

lounge, main lounge, and panoramic

lounge. Exploris One is outfitted with a fleet

of Mark V zodiacs to get guests from ship to

shore quickly and efficiently. New for 2026,

Adventure Canada is proud to be able to

include WIFI access and standard alcoholic

and non-alcoholic beverages on all trips on

Exploris One. Adventure Canada will work in

partnership with expedition travel company

and ship owner Exploris to operate Exploris

One.

Ocean Nova Purpose built in 1992 for

Greenland’s icy waters, Ocean Nova is a

comfortable vessel born for expedition travel.

Built for efficiency, function, and an intimate

experience, the cozy ship offers 45 guest cabins,

a restaurant, fully equipped gym, library,

and panoramic observation lounge. One of

the vessel’s highlights is its open decks which

are a dream for photographers and scenery

lovers. With a shallow draft and easy access

with a fleet of eight zodiacs, guests will spend

more time exploring and less time ferrying

from ship to shore. Adventure Canada will

work together with Nova Logistics to operate

Ocean Nova. Importantly, Ocean Nova sails

with a lighter carbon footprint than most

expedition vessels, which was an important

consideration in the selection of which vessels

Adventure Canada would operate going forward.

In 2026 Adventure Canada will offer the following

expeditions aboard Ocean Nova:

Scotland and Faroe Islands: Isles of Wonder,

Scotland, The Faroe Islands, & Iceland: North

Atlantic Saga, Iceland to Greenland: In the

Wake of Vikings, Heart of the Arctic, Baffin

Island and Greenland: Circling the Midnight

Sun, Greenland and Wild Labrador: A

Torngat Mountains Adventure, and

Newfoundland Circumnavigation.

www.adventurecanada.com

Exploris One

“We are absolutely delighted with this strategic

partnership with Adventure Canada,”

says President of Exploris and co-founder of

PONANT, Philippe Videau. “This collaboration

represents a tremendous opportunity to

Ocean Nova


72

Stay & Play Section

Killeavy Castle Estate

Killeavy Castle Estate is in

“Orchard County,” aka County

Armagh, an hour’s drive from

both Dublin and Belfast airports, and a

10-minute drive from Newry Railway

Station. Ensconced in the mythical Irish

countryside, this pristine remote estate

covers 365 acres of fertile farm and

woodlands, set amidst the Mourne

Mountains and Slieve Gullion, the highest

point in the county, and an Area of

Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Garnering a reputation as Northern

Ireland’s hidden gem, it’s a place where

the out-of-towners rub shoulders with

the locals who have numerous reasons

to return, including the farm fresh cuisine,

spa and pastoral ambiance.

Killeavy Castle is a Grade A listed historical

building circa 1836 that was rebuilt

from the original lodge farmhouse. It is

used for private events and weddings.

The new hotel is a few minutes’ walk

from the castle. Opened in 2019, the

45-room main hotel is part of the

estate’s former Mill and Coach House,

and has deservedly received awards for

its sustainable restaurant, spa and hotel

accommodation.

Killeavy means “church on the mountain”.

While you’re berry picking or rambling

along velvety moss-covered rock

paths, look for the stone ruins of a

church during your woodlands adventure.

The estate’s motto is “Get closer to

what’s important.” Whether it’s a nature

hike sporting an Irish Aran wool sweater

and wellies, a swim in the heated

hydrotherapy pool, or simply embracing

the quiet luxury of sleep, Killeavy is a

by Cherie DeLory

rejuvenating and hospitable experience.

Guest rooms have toiletries by sustainable

wellbeing brand Rituals. Nearby

attractions along the Mourne Coast are

NearyNógs bean to bar craft chocolate

maker, Two Stacks Whiskey, and The

Game of Thrones Studio Tour.

Savour a farm to fork experience with

nutrient-rich, seasonal menus inspired

by the estate’s walled kitchen garden,

honey apiary, Longhorn cattle and

Cheviot sheep farm, and fresh fish from

the Irish Sea. I enjoyed lamb sausage

(with natural skin) infused with Killeavy

honey, rosemary and herbs, and a side

of sweet potato and bok choy.

The farm store has everything from preserves

and honey and fresh produce

and meat, to handsomely crafted Irish

blackthorn walking sticks that will serve

you well on your woodland walks or

Mourne Mountain rambles. The blackthorn

is a native tree found in Ireland

and produces bitter sloe berries commonly

used in gin; An Irish keepsake to

be sure. Join a heritage tour of the

estate, take a cookery class in the

Walled Garden Studio, or shake things

up with the ABBA murder mystery dining

experience.

www.killeavycastle.com

Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen

by Randy Mink!

Life is easy at Secrets Moxche Playa del

Carmen, an all-inclusive, adults-only

luxury resort in the Mexican Caribbean.

For five blissful days, my hardest decisions

revolved around where to relax in the shade

and which of the many eateries and bars to

choose for the next meal, snack or drink. Even

the in-room mini bar, stocked with beer, wine,

juice and soft drinks, was part of the all-thingscovered

deal.

This 485-room beachfront oasis on the

Yucatan Peninsula’s Riviera Maya, about 45

minutes south of Cancun, resides within a

gated community a short drive from Playa del

Carmen, a lively town with a long pedestrian

street full of shops and cafes. My group’s stay

at Secrets Moxche, a member of the Hyatt

Inclusive Collection and rated Five Diamonds

by AAA, was arranged by ALG Vacations (also

part of the Hyatt family) and included the

roundtrip flight to Cancun.

Having booked rooms in the Preferred Club

category, we had access to The Observatory, a

rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the

resort’s palm-studded courtyard and its eight

swimming pools. This high-altitude nest

became a hangout for us, as it was not only a

restaurant/bar but a place to lounge around in

padded comfort and sip drinks in the ledgeside

pool. Across the Caribbean Sea, the

island of Cozumel shimmered on the horizon.

Every evening we sampled a new eatery,

whether it was Allora for Italian cuisine, Suki

for Japanese food or beachside Seasoul,

where shrimp, octopus and fish dishes reigned

supreme. Dos Almas featured Mexican specialties,

while vegan fare at Bamboo celebrated

the flavors of Southeast Asia. Bisou, the

AAA Four-Diamond French restaurant, served

classics like escargot, onion soup, duck a l’orange

and my favorite—beef Wellington.

73

For happy hour drinks, there’s the Dog

House, which according to the aforementioned

newspaper article, “makes a swell

loafing place after the rides.” It’s still a slay

place to chillax today with a large outdoor

patio overlooking the grounds and hills in

the distance.

Good Horses

The name of my horse on our guided trek

was Tulsa and his calm demeanor and surefootedness

made up for my inexperience.

We ambled along the trails to a lookout

point with a panoramic vista that showcased

the beauty of the mountainous desert landscape.

Tulsa was one of 150 horses on the

ranch, where equestrian pursuits range from

gentle jaunts to exhilarating gallops for more

experienced riders.

Tanque Verde Ranch

The Enduring Appeal of an Arizonan Dude Ranch Vacation

“You don’t seem to see much evidence of

the ‘city’ worries in this group, do you?”

reads the caption of the black and white

photo in a 1950s newspaper article. “They’re

on a riding picnic high up in the Rincon

mountains on a sunny winter day at Tanque

Verde.”

The picnickers are smiling in their cowboy

hats surrounded by the beauty of the

Sonoran Desert. The article extolls the pleasures

of a ranching vacation with its “good

food, good beds, good horses and an

unspoiled riding country of desert and mountains.”

Although these words were written 70 years

ago, the lure of a Tanque Verde vacation is

just as strong today. Sure, some things have

changed. Pickle ball clinics weren’t on the

schedule nor was there wi-fi on the property.

But the fundamentals remain the same:

by Jennifer Merrick

Good Beds

The landscape may be rugged, but the

accommodation is anything but. Spacious

rooms are warm and inviting with a southwestern

décor that’s in harmony with the

landscape of the expansive property. The 70

rooms vary in layout and size from standard

rooms with impressive mountain views to

suites with private patios and fireplaces and

standalone casitas. The latter units feature

patios facing the desert and a separate living

area with an oversized comfy couch.

Our view from the patio at the Roadrunner

Ridge Casita was one of the highlights of the

stay. Not only could we marvel at the towering

Saguaro cacti and the surprisingly lush

desert vegetation, but also wildlife. A birdfeeder

attracted cardinals, woodpeckers and

a javelina. A javelina? This mammal with a

piglike snout (though it’s not a wild pig),

large head and little stout body foraged for

the birdseed that had fallen on the ground.

And yes, the beds were comfy, too.

But horseback riding wasn’t the only way to

enjoy this incredible landscape. Our hiking

and mountain biking excursions were fun

and informative, led by knowledgeable

guides who shared details about both the

nature and history of the area.

These activities were part of a daily roster

that is chock filled with options that included

archery, pickleball, axe-throwing and jewelry

making to name a few. And for the young

cowboys there’s programming especially for

kids. For more relaxing pursuits, indulge in

the pools, hot tubs and spa.

The Unspoiled Riding Country of Desert and

Mountains

Like 70 years ago, it’s the property itself that

is the biggest draw of a Tanque Verde Ranch

vacation. Its 640 acres, located in the

foothills of the Rincon Mountains, neighbors

the Saguaro National Forest, a protected

90,000-acre reserve. Though it’s only a 30-

minute drive from Tucson, Arizona, it feels

more remote---a place to leave the city worries

behind.

www.tanqueverderanch.com/

www.visittucson.org

Good Food

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included in

the hotel rate. All meals are served in a large

dining hall with the option of a buffet or

ordering a la carte. The meals are hearty and

tasty with dinner menu items that include dryaged

steaks, seafood and local specialties.

Advertorial

Accommodations

Puntacana Resort & Club is the

Caribbean’s leading resort community on

the eastern shore of the Dominican

Republic. Tortuga Bay is member of the

Leading Hotels of the World and the only

AAA Five Diamond awarded hotel in the

Dominican Republic, offering understated

elegance, privacy and unparalleled personal

service. Located at Playa Blanca is

The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club,

guest enjoys all of Westin’s signature

amenities and Don Queco Cigar Bar. Our

Four Points by Sheraton is situated at

Puntacana Village, few minutes away

from Punta Cana International Airport

(PUJ).

The Estates

Become a part of our magnificent paradise

community with the purchase of a

vacation home in the elite The Estates at

Puntacana Resort & Club, where Julio

Iglesias, Mikhail Baryshnikov call home.

An exclusive lifestyle of relaxation, excitement

and understated elegance, prospective

buyers can choose among elegant

homes perched above the Caribbean Sea

or overlooking scrupulously manicured

golf courses in Corales, Tortuga, Arrecife,

Hacienda, Hacienda del Mar and

Marina. Home and apartments are also

available at Puntacana Village.

Golf

With 45 holes of championship golf,

Puntacana Resort & Club is the

Caribbean’s premier golf & beach destination.

The P.B. Dye designed La Cana

Golf Course, consisting of 27 holes across

Tortuga, Arrecife and Hacienda, was

declared the number one course in the

Caribbean by Golf Magazine. Designed

by Tom Fazio and set between rocky cliffs,

coral reefs and the expansive Caribbean

Sea, the Corales Golf Course features six

oceanfront holes, multiple lines of

approach and picturesque canyons, making

for an exhilarating experience.

Activities & Spa

Puntacana Resort & Club offers a wide

range of adventures for guests of all ages

including golf, tennis, kite boarding, scuba

diving, horseback riding, fishing and

numerous excursions by sea, land and air.

The leading spa in the Caribbean, Six

Senses Spa at Puntacana Resort & Club

presents a range of innovative packages,

Signature treatments and Asian therapies.

Visit Galerías Puntacana to enjoy an

assortment of shops, restaurants, playground,

and our spirited nightlife.

Dining

Puntacana Resort & Club is home to 6

world class eateries with an indigenously

delectable cuisine. Tucked inside Tortuga

Bay, the AAA Four Diamond awarded

Bamboo blends modern cuisine with

Mediterranean influences. Specializing in

local seafood, The AAA Three Diamond

Award La Yola is located at the Marina. At

La Cana Golf & Beach Club is The Grill,

an American style grill offering views of

the sea. The Westin Puntacana Resort &

Club provides a variety or restaurants and

bars from Ananí to Brassa Grill. Next door

is Playa Blanca, a beachfront tropical

restaurant. Our Dine Around Program

offers the best sampling of our finest culinary

experience. All restaurants offer complimentary

shuttle service within the resort.

More dining options are available at

Puntacana Village.

Corporate Social Responsibility

We believe that in development there

needs to be equilibrium among the economic,

environmental and social components.

Our non-profit Grupo Puntacana

Foundation serves both natural and social

resources, while contributing to the sustainable

development of our Dominican

Republic. These practices have been guiding

principles of our company, and along

with vision, hard work and perseverance,

the key to our success.

Punta Cana International airport

Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ),

built, owned and operated by Grupo

Puntacana, the resort’s developers, and

located within Puntacana Resort & Club, is

just minutes away from check-in at any of

our hotels or private homes. Punta Cana

International Airport (PUJ) has direct service

from 98 different cities around the

world, making Punta Cana the most

accessible destination in the Caribbean.

Our VIP terminals service the needs of

guests flying in private aircrafts.

The Caribbean’s Premiere Golf

& Beach Resort Community

www.puntacana.com

76

Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort

A Surprising Inland Oasis

by Susan Campbell

I

remember a few years ago I was

intrigued, even surprised, to learn that

the timeshare-based The Mill Aruba

Resort beside the famous big red 200-yearold

Olde Molen (Old Windmill) landmark

was going to become a Courtyard by

Marriott Aruba Resort property. My general

impression of that brand was more North

American family motor inn style or business

traveler near the airport kind of thing, not

typically a tropical island leisure accommodation.

But apparently, the “Resort” incarnations

found in more exotic destinations

are designed to appeal to the leisure traveler

as a budget option that still offers

many of the perks and amenities of a higher

class of hotel. And it works. My recent

stay there was enlightening, and enjoyable.

Recently refreshed top to bottom, the lowrise

complex of two floors wraps around an

impressive sprawling pool complex with

waterfalls, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and a very

cool swim-up bar. The color scheme is an

ethereal gleaming white with accents of

aqua to pay tribute to Aruba's most alluring

hues of sand and sea.

The resort has 148 Rooms, some are suites

and some are accessible, and all are

equipped with the standards like minifridges,

microwaves, coffee makers, safes,

and flat screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi is resort

wide. And a nod to the business traveler is

found with large work desks and ergonomic

chairs. I especially liked their super spacious

rain shower and the comfort of their

bed. I also appreciated my ground floor

location that was steps from the pool bar

for fabulous frozen cocktails and excellent

brick oven pizza. More on site food and

beverage is to be found at Delia’s alfresco

terrace bar for cocktails, smoothies, specialty

coffees, and the like, and next door is

their signature restaurant Allegro Bistro, an

indoor/outdoor affair. Though it leans

toward fine Italian dining at night, you can

order more casual lunches during the day,

it’s also the spot to help yourself to the

bountiful breakfast buffets that are included

in your rate. (You can also have breakfast

served to your room for an additional cost.)

I recommend you reserve your dinner table

outside because they have great live poolside

musical entertainment every evening.

Also on site is a 24/7 fitness centre and

small spa. Off-property, you have other

great pastimes in easy walking distance.

They are literally steps from the Mill Town

courtyard for more casual and fine dining,

and across the road on the other side, it’s

also an easy walk to brand new “The

Casino at The St. Regis Aruba Resort “which

is open to the public for glitzy late night

entertainment.

What about the beach?

Poolside pleasures are a perk of tropical

travel, but no one goes all the way to Aruba

without seeking some serious beach time!

Thankfully this place has that well covered,

too. Their regular complimentary shuttle

transports guests to a prime dedicated area

on gorgeous Palm Beach that offers

lounges and shade right beside the snazzy

new St. Regis hotel’s beachfront. Courtyard

guests are welcome to order food and beverage

from the St. Regis pool bar, but

another cool amenity is that you can order

a pre-packed gourmet picnic from the

Courtyard kitchen and park your towel to

enjoy the sand and surf wherever you

please. All of Aruba’s beaches are open to

the public, even in front of the ritzy resorts,

so find your own perfect place in the sun

and see why they call it “One Happy

Island.”

www.marriott.com


Stay & Play Stay & Play Stay & Play Stay &

I knew little about the TRYP hotel concept

before my stay, but once enlight-

77

ened, I can report back that this

establishment checks all their mission

boxes. This brand is designed as a hip,

affordable, urban oasis in the heart of a city

offering a savvy, modern, and unique vibe.

After a mere 15-minute drive from the airport,

I was instantly pleased with its fresh,

vibrant welcome due to a kaleidoscope of

colorful murals of Aruban flora and fauna

provided by a local artist throughout. The

new incarnation has 96 totally refurbished

modern rooms with popping accents of sea

life prints, and mine was one of their three

unique ‘fitness’ suites. That means that right

beside my bed was an exercise bike, a

Pilates ball, and a yoga mat!

TRYP by Wyndham Aruba

New Cool & Quirky Stay on “The Strip”

Over my many decades of

researching all new and cool in

Aruba I’ve spent countless

nights bopping around on foot throughout

the massive maze of establishments locally

known as ‘The Strip’. This stretch of J. E.

Irausquin Boulevard fronting all the ritzy

high-rise hotels lining famous Palm Beach is

loaded with restaurants, bars, cafes, shopping,

and entertainment along the sidewalk

and within little courtyards and side streets

for almost two miles. Alfresco music and

beats bouncing into the street, tantalizing

aromas of every kind of cuisine imaginable

by Susan Campbell

wafting through the tropical night air, make

it a must-do evening no matter where you’re

staying. But now, you can stay embedded

right within ‘The Strip’ in a colorful, cool,

and quirky new adults-only boutique hotel!

Formerly a budget, family-friendly stay

called Brickell Bay, the entire property was

reimagined and redesigned as a Tryp by

Wyndham brand hotel in late 2024. I was

invited to give them a try recently, and I was

beyond impressed with the cosmopolitan

vibe, unique amenities, and stellar personal

service. The transformation was incredible.

My stay was short, so I didn’t have time to

take part in their additional social activities

like yoga, souvenir making classes, cocktail

crafting, and wine tasting sessions…, but I

did spend some time in their cool urban

pool and swim up bar at night. It’s open

late, so you can hear the music from the

clubs while you relax on your floatie under

the neon lights and tropical stars. But

though the TRYP philosophy is centered

around "Powered by the City", few come all

the way to Aruba for the ‘city’ lifestyle. Let’s

face it, everyone comes for the beaches!

Thankfully, this spot offers the best of both.

After a great jolt of caffeine from their onsite

Island Grind café, and a hearty breakfast

included in the rate, I headed for their

designated Palm Beach area. Though It’s a

mere five-minute walk away, I took full

advantage of their complimentary shuttle

there where lounges and even paddle

boards awaited. Food and beverage service

is also available on the beach from their onsite

hotel Gastro Bar (also delivered by the

shuttle.) And apparently, expanding the

Gastro Bar to the second-floor balcony with

a fantastic view of the strip is also included

in the planning. Can’t wait until my next stay

to experience that soon.

www.wyndhamhotels.com/en-ca/tryp


Play Stay & Play Stay & Play Stay & Play S

80

Santo Estevo

Baiona

Santiago

Cambados

A Journey Through Time: Staying in Spain’s Timeless Paradores


Spain’ Paradores are not just

hotels—they are portals into the

soul of Spanish history, architecture,

and tradition. I’ve traveled the world

many times over, yet few hospitality experiences

have moved me like a journey

through these remarkable state-run establishments.

Born from a 20th-century initiative

to preserve historic buildings and promote

tourism in lesser-known regions, the

Parador network today boasts over ninety

properties—many located in former castles,

monasteries, and noble mansions.

It all began in 1928 with the opening of the

Parador de Gredos in the Sierra de Gredos

mountains. From that point forward, Spain

committed to transforming its crumbling

relics of the past into luxurious accommodations.

The concept was brilliant: preserve

Spain’s heritage while offering travelers the

rare chance to sleep where monks prayed,

kings ruled, and battles were once fought.

On a recent journey through the mystical

lands of Galicia and the Rías Baixas, I had

the privilege of staying in four unforgettable

Paradores—Santo Estevo, Baiona, Santiago

de Compostela, and Cambados. Each one

left its indelible mark on me.

What struck me most was how each

Parador seemed to embody the character of

its region—whether through the food,

architecture, or local traditions. The staff in

every location took pride in sharing not only

their property but also their culture, making

each visit feel like a personal introduction to

a different part of Spain.

Santo Estevo

Santo Estevo

Baiona


Parador de Santo Estevo

Tranquility Among the Monks

Tucked away in the Ribeira Sacra, where the

Miño and Sil rivers carve lush canyons into

the Galician landscape, lies the Parador de

Santo Estevo, a former Benedictine

monastery dating back to the 6th century.

Reaching this haven felt like a pilgrimage in

itself—winding roads through forested valleys

eventually opened up to reveal the

massive granite façade of the monastery.

The moment I stepped into the cloistered

halls, I felt the weight of centuries settle gently

around me. Ancient stone arches, layered

with Romanesque, Gothic, and

Baroque influences, created an atmosphere

of quiet reverence. My room looked out

over dense forest and distant mountain

peaks, where each morning the sun rose in

a spectacular display of color—an unforgettable

way to begin the day. It was hard to

believe that just hours earlier I had been

navigating the chaos of modern travel.

Dinners at the restaurant were meditative

affairs—regional specialties like Galician

octopus, empanadas, and slow-cooked

veal, all paired with local Ribeira Sacra

wines. The monks may be long gone, but

their sense of calm endures in every stone

and shadow.

Parador de Baiona

Watching the Sea from Fortress Walls

From the serenity of the mountains, I drove

west to the Atlantic coast, where the Parador

de Baiona stands proudly atop a seaside

promontory, enclosed within the walls of a

medieval fortress. If Santo Estevo whispered

of monastic contemplation, Baiona thundered

with maritime glory.

Baiona was the first European port to

receive word of Columbus’ discovery of the

New World. The replica of the Pinta, docked

in the harbor below, is a constant reminder

of that legacy. The parador itself is housed

in the Condes de Gondomar Castle, and

walking along its fortified walls at sunset,

with waves crashing below, was a cinematic

experience.

My room had wide windows that opened to

sweeping views of the Cíes Islands and the

endless blue of the Atlantic. Inside, the

decor was regal—heavy wooden furniture,

tapestries, and iron chandeliers—but somehow

still inviting. The thick stone walls

seemed to hum with history, and walking

through the fortress corridors, I imagined

centuries of sailors, nobles, and sentinels

who had once stood in the same spot,

watching the tides roll in. That simple connection

to the past set the tone for a stay

that felt like both a coastal escape and a

step into a chivalric past.

Baiona’s old town is charming and easily

walkable, but I found it difficult to leave the

parador’s walls. It’s not every day you sleep

in a castle perched above the sea.

Parador de Santiago de Compostela

A Pilgrim’s Reward

Arriving in Santiago de Compostela, I

found myself face to face with the final destination

of one of the world’s great pilgrimage

routes—the Camino de Santiago.

Facing the awe-inspiring cathedral in the

heart of the old city stands one of the oldest

continuously operating hotels in the world:

the Parador de Santiago, also known as the

Hostal dos Reis Católicos.

Built in 1499 by the Catholic Monarchs as a

hospital and hostel for weary pilgrims, this

parador is a masterpiece of Plateresque

architecture, with soaring vaulted ceilings,

cloisters lined with intricate carvings, and

rooms steeped in royal and religious history.

I arrived on a rainy afternoon and watched

dozens of pilgrims enter the square, their

faces a mix of fatigue and spiritual triumph.

Sitting in the parador’s elegant dining

room, I enjoyed a pilgrim-inspired tasting

menu that blended the rustic flavors of the

camino with the finesse of fine dining. Each

dish—seafood stew, roast lamb, and tarta

de Santiago—told a story of the land and its

people.

As a traveler, it’s rare to stay somewhere

that is both a luxurious retreat

and a living monument. Here, history

breathes from every stone.

Parador de Cambados

Wine Country Elegance

My final stop brought me to Cambados, the

heart of the Rías Baixas wine region, and a

town that exudes noble charm and vinicultural

pride. The Parador de Cambados,

located in the 17th-century Pazo de Bazán,

is more modest in grandeur compared to

the others, but it offered perhaps the most

personal warmth.

With its flower-filled courtyard, inviting

lounges, and relaxed coastal atmosphere,

the parador felt like a stately country house.

My room had rustic wooden beams and

views of vineyards stretching to the horizon.

Cambados is famed for its albariño. That

evening, I watched the sky blush pink over

the estuary and felt an overwhelming sense

of gratitude. This was the kind of travel

experience I chase—one that is grounded,

authentic, and undeniably special.

More Than Hotels: Living the Soul of Spain

Each of these Paradores offered far more

than a place to sleep—they provided emotional

connections to the land, its history,

and its people. In a world increasingly

obsessed with the new and modern, the

Paradores of Spain remind us of the beauty

in preservation, patience, and authenticity.

Whether nestled in a cloister, perched on a

fortress wall, across from a cathedral, or

beside rolling vineyards, these national

treasures offer a kind of travel experience

that stays with you long after you’ve checked

out.

Spain may have invented the concept of

siesta, but when you stay in a Parador, you

wake up to something truly unforgettable.

https://paradores.es/en

www.spain.info/en

81

Baiona

Santiago

Cambados


Quebec’s Most Exceptional Suites: A Journey into Absolute Luxury

Some addresses stand out for their refinement and prestige. In Quebec City, two suites rank among the most luxurious:

the penthouse at Hôtel Capitole and the Royal Suite at Hôtel Port Royal. Offering an unparalleled experience, these

exceptional spaces have welcomed renowned personalities, from international artists to prominent political figures.

features is a freestanding bathtub, strategically

placed at the heart of the master bedroom

to offer a direct view of Château

Frontenac. The adjoining bathroom, with its

heated marble floors, adds an extra touch

of comfort. A second connecting bedroom

allows for additional guests, making this

penthouse perfectly suited for any occasion—whether

a romantic getaway or a

group stay.

Where Luxury and Comfort Meet

Le Capitole Hôtel

The interior design blends modernity with

elegance. A double-sided fireplace creates

a warm and inviting ambiance, while a

grand piano adds a touch of sophistication.

A fully equipped kitchenette and bar area

provide everything needed to enjoy this

exceptional space to the fullest. For outdoor

relaxation moments, an immense terrace

invites you to contemplate the city. You feel

at home here, with that little extra touch of

exception that makes all the difference.

The 9e Ciel Penthouse at Le Capitole Hôtel

A Jewel in Québec City’s Sky

Article & photography by Nathalie Clark and Pierre Houle

Automated curtains, high-end furnishings,

soft ambient lighting, and state-of-the-art

amenities complete this picture of absolute

luxury. Every detail has been meticulously

considered to make this suite a destination

in itself.

Perched atop the prestigious Le

Capitole Hôtel, the 9e Ciel

Penthouse offers an unparalleled

luxury experience in the heart of Old

Québec. This establishment, honored with

the CAA-AAA Four Diamond distinction,

now joins the exclusive ranks of North

America’s finest hotels, alongside Fairmont

Le Château Frontenac and Auberge Saint-

Antoine.

From the moment you step inside, you are

immediately captivated by the breathtaking

view. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows

surround the space, unveiling a stunning

panorama of Old Québec and the

Laurentian Mountains. At night, the city

lights up, transforming into a mesmerizing

spectacle that enchants the eye.

An Invitation to Relaxation and

Contemplation

Spanning 117 square meters (1,256 sq. ft.),

the 9e Ciel Penthouse is a true haven of

peace and luxury. Among its most distinctive

But Le Capitole Hôtel is more than just this

extraordinary penthouse. The hotel also

features an indoor pool on the 9th floor,

bordered by a magnificent terrace, an elegant

bar, two refined restaurants, and the

legendary Théâtre Capitole—making it a

complete destination for an unforgettable

stay in Québec City.

Elevate your dreams. All it takes is a stay.

https://lecapitole.com/

Le Capitole Hôtel


83

Hôtel Port Royal: A Sumptuous Haven in the Heart of the City

Article & photography by Nathalie Clark and Pierre Houle

The suite reveals a sumptuous layout.

Chevron-patterned hardwood floors infuse

timeless warmth into the space, while the

grand dining room—with its long table

seating twelve—sets the stage for convivial

gourmet experiences. A smaller, more

secluded table offers the perfect setting for

intimate meals. The expansive open-concept

living area is designed for both contemplation

and entertainment: a Yamaha

grand piano takes center stage, accompanied

by a state-of-the-art audiovisual system,

featuring a 70-inch flat-screen TV and

a SONOS sound system that envelops each

room in rich, immersive audio. Staying in

this suite means embracing a refined

lifestyle where every element has been

carefully curated for absolute comfort.

ghe Royal Suite at Hôtel Port Royal

occupies the top floor of a majestic

19th-century building, formerly the

Bank of Commerce, standing proudly

across from the hotel. Behind its grand

limestone Beaux-Arts façade lies one of

Quebec City’s most exclusive suites—an

unexpected gem set within historic architecture.

Its discreet and private entrance,

along with its intimate character, has

attracted numerous artists seeking privacy,

drawn as well by its high-end amenities.

"Renaud was among the most recent

guests, as were Gérard Depardieu and

Ginette Reno. Justin Bieber had reserved it,

but after his rain-soaked concert at the

Festival d’été de Québec, he decided to

head straight to Montreal with his

team,"confides a hotel staff member.

Spanning 3,200 square feet of interior

space and boasting a panoramic 2,500-

square-foot terrace, the suite epitomizes

exclusivity and elegance. From the moment

we arrived, we were captivated by the

meticulous attention to detail: Afghan and

Persian rugs adorning the floors, plush tufted

armchairs inviting relaxation, and an

intimate ambiance created by sheer drapes

and soft lighting.

A Sophisticated Art of Living

A Private Rooftop Oasis

The highlight of this lavish retreat awaits

atop the private rooftop terrace—an

extraordinary space overlooking the city.

From this peaceful sanctuary, the panoramic

view stretches across Bassin Louise, Cap

Diamant, the Séminaire de Québec, and,

in the distance, the iconic Château

Frontenac. Designed to host up to fifty

guests, the terrace transforms into an

enchanting stage for unforgettable

evenings under the stars.

A stay in the Royal Suite is more than just

luxurious accommodation—it is an immersion

into a world where opulence and intimacy

blend in perfect harmony.

www.leportroyal.com


84

Wichabai Ranch

Saddle Mountain Ranch

Xjdibcbj!boe!Tbeemf!Npvoubjo!Sbodift!

Bvuifoujd!Bewfouvsft!jo!Hvzbob’t!Tbwboobi!

by Olivia Liveng

Deep in Guyana’s vast South

Rupununi savannahs lies a landscape

of sweeping grasslands dotted

by palm-fringed islands, where ancient

traditions and a pioneering conservation

ethos intertwine seamlessly. Here, two rural

yet entirely unique establishments—

Wichabai Ranch and Saddle Mountain

Ranch—offer a gateway into a world of ecological

adventure, cultural enrichment, and

authentic ranch life. Far removed from

mainstream tourism, these family-run

ranches are redefining sustainable travel

through immersive experiences that celebrate

the region's unique biodiversity and

cultural heritage.

Wichabai Ranch

Where Conservation Meets Authenticity

Situated where the Amazon rainforest softly

merges into an expansive savannah,

Wichabai Ranch is a shining example of

sustainable tourism and environmental

stewardship. It isn’t simply a ranch but a

focal point for conservation, scientific

research, and cultural exchange. Spanning

thousands of acres, the ranch is surrounded

by natural lagoons, streams, and islands of

dense bush—each alive with birdsong and

wildlife.

Upon arrival, guests are immediately

enveloped in the tranquil rhythm of life,

slowing to match the natural cadence of the

land. The rustic yet comfortable cabins, built

with locally sourced materials, offer stunning

vistas across the savannah and nearby

forests. Each cabin features an inviting

veranda—perfect for observing wildlife,

stargazing, or simply soaking in the serene

landscape, fostering a sense of peace and

relaxation.

Days at Wichabai Ranch are filled with an

array of activities designed to deepen one's

appreciation for the natural world. Guided

horseback rides take guests through the


open savannah, allowing intimate encounters

with grazing cattle, giant anteaters, and

curious capybaras. The ranch’s experienced

vaqueros, or cowboys, share their intimate

knowledge of the land, pointing out hidden

wildlife tracks and teaching guests traditional

ranching techniques.

Birdwatching at Wichabai is an unforgettable

experience, with hundreds of recorded

bird species in the area. Early morning

excursions reveal vibrant macaws, elusive

harpy eagles, and numerous migratory

species that find refuge here. Canoeing

along the ranch's tranquil waterways offers

another perspective, allowing visitors to

glide quietly past basking caimans and

playful giant otters.

Cultural immersion at Wichabai is equally

enriching. Guests have opportunities to

engage with local indigenous communities,

learning traditional skills such as bow and

arrow crafting, cassava bread making, and

medicinal plant identification. These

exchanges foster deeper connections and a

greater understanding of the harmonious

relationship between humans and the environment

in this remote corner of Guyana.

Conservation efforts at Wichabai are commendable

and ongoing. Collaborations

with researchers help document the region’s

ecological diversity, while conservation programs

educate visitors and locals alike on

sustainable land use practices. The McTurks

emphasize minimal environmental impact,

ensuring that Wichabai remains a sanctuary

for generations to come.

Saddle Mountain Ranch

Living the Vaquero Tradition

Saddle Mountain Ranch is a short yet equally

captivating journey away, a sprawling cattle

operation founded over 30 years ago by

the Kenyon family. Set against the backdrop

of the imposing twin peaks from which the

ranch derives its name, Saddle Mountain

offers a different but complementary ranching

experience—rooted deeply in Guyanese

vaquero traditions.

At Saddle Mountain, life revolves around

cattle ranching. Guests are warmly invited

to participate in daily ranch activities, making

this not merely a visit but a hands-on

experience. Whether assisting in cattle

roundups, joining in branding sessions, or

learning to ride and care for horses, each

activity offers a genuine taste of ranch life.

The family and their skilled ranch hands

ensure every visitor, regardless of previous

experience, feels part of the ranch community,

fostering a sense of inclusion and

belonging.

Horseback expeditions are a highlight at

Saddle Mountain. Extended rides can take

visitors deep into the wilderness, where

evenings are spent camping under expansive

star-filled skies. These expeditions connect

profoundly to the landscape as riders

traverse diverse terrains—from wide-open

savannahs to dense forests—encountering

wildlife such as armadillos, peccaries, and

even the occasional jaguar track.

The ranch itself provides comfortable yet

simple accommodations. Traditional cabins

built from local materials feature practical

amenities designed to blend harmoniously

with their natural surroundings. Shared

meals, prepared by the family, provide

hearty sustenance and a sense of camaraderie

that quickly makes guests feel at

home. Dishes are often a delicious blend of

traditional ranch fare and local Guyanese

cuisine crafted from fresh, locally sourced

ingredients.

Saddle Mountain Ranch also offers opportunities

for cultural learning, inviting guests to

master traditional ranch skills such as bullwhip

cracking, lasso throwing, and even

indigenous archery. These activities aren’t

merely demonstrations—interactive experiences

that preserve and celebrate local heritage,

providing insight into the skills that

have defined life here for generations.

Wildlife viewing at Saddle Mountain is similarly

rewarding. The ranch’s proximity to the

South Rupununi Conservation Society’s protected

areas means that guests regularly

spot wildlife such as giant anteaters, redfooted

tortoises, and countless bird species,

enriching the experience with close encounters

in a natural setting.

A Shared Vision

Sustainable Tourism and Community

Both Wichabai Ranch and Saddle Mountain

Ranch embody the spirit of sustainable

tourism, demonstrating that responsible

travel can support environmental conservation

and local economic development. Each

ranch actively contributes to community

well-being, offering employment opportunities

and fostering cultural pride through its

immersive programs.

These ranches are not merely destinations

but platforms for education and advocacy,

raising awareness about the South

Rupununi’s ecological significance.

Wichabai and Saddle Mountain Ranch invite

visitors to become ambassadors for a fragile

yet remarkably resilient ecosystem by prioritizing

sustainability and authentic cultural

interactions, empowering them with knowledge

and a sense of responsibility.

Planning Your Visit

Travelers interested in visiting these ranches

should prepare for a journey off the beaten

path. Access typically involves flights from

Georgetown to Lethem and scenic drives

across the savannah. While remote, both

ranches ensure guest comfort, blending rustic

charm with practical amenities.

Visitors should pack appropriately for outdoor

activities—sturdy boots, lightweight

clothing, hats, binoculars for wildlife viewing,

and a sense of adventure. Both ranches

welcome families, solo travelers, and

groups, offering tailored experiences to suit

varied interests and abilities.

Whether you’re riding horseback across the

savannah at sunrise, learning traditional

skills under the guidance of friendly vaqueros,

or simply relaxing on your cabin veranda

as dusk settles over the landscape, a visit

to Wichabai or Saddle Mountain Ranch

offers a rare chance to reconnect with

nature and witness firsthand the transformative

power of sustainable tourism.

www.wichabai.com

www.guyanatourism.com

85


86

Three Generations, One Unforgettable Trip: Our Kissimmee Getaway!

Article & photography by Judi Cohen (TravelingJudi)

When I was asked what I wanted

for my 70th birthday, I wasn’t

thinking diamonds or luxury

cars. Without hesitation, I said the greatest

gift would be to plan our family’s first multigenerational

holiday. We all cleared our

schedules for a week in March 2025 and

made it happen together.

A successful multi-generational family holiday

required careful planning and discussions.

My daughter lives in Toronto and my

son in New York City, both juggling careers

and babies (all under 3 years of age).

Given the ages of the grandchildren, their

parents wanted to stay in North America

within a 3 to 4-hour flight from their

homes. They also wanted to be able to prepare

meals and go to restaurants, have

activities close by for the children including

playgrounds and swimming pools, and

have a common area for all nine of us to

be together during meals and relaxation

hours.

Finding the Right Destination

With young children, staying within a 3-to

4-hour flight from home was a priority.

Considering flight time and family needs,

Florida stood out, and Kissimmee, the

“Vacation Home Capital of the World”,

became the clear choice. Located twenty

miles south of Orlando, Kissimmee has

vacation homes from two to 20 bedrooms

that include themed bedrooms for toddlers,

playrooms, private pools, home theatres

and more.


The Perfect Home Away from Home

Our family of nine found the perfect sixbedroom

vacation rental in Reunion Resort

and Golf Club. More than just a place to

sleep, it was an experience. It had a private

pool and spa, a home theater, themed kids'

bedrooms, and dedicated play and lounge

areas. Having space to spread out made all

the difference, allowing everyone to

recharge between outings while still enjoying

shared moments together. We cooked

meals in the well-equipped kitchen or on

the outdoor BBQ, gathering around a spacious

dining table where highchairs, provided

by the resort, kept the little ones comfortable.

Every day started with a breakfast

with healthy choices to meet everyone’s

taste including eggs, yogurt, coffee, toast,

French toast, and lots of fresh fruit.

Several grocery stores were located less

than five minutes from the resort. You can

even pay to have the resort provision your

house with food and drinks before and during

your stay, arrange for a cook, and have

cleaning services during your stay.

One of the important conveniences was

having a washer and dryer, complete with

detergent, iron and ironing board in the

house. Ample clean bathroom and pool

towels, and sheets were provided and could

be washed as necessary.

Staying in a house for the week meant no

packing or unpacking. It also allowed the

toddlers to somewhat stay on their schedules.

On-Site Activities suitable for Toddlers

With toddlers, the waterpark provided

hours of family fun from the morning to the

late afternoon. The kids most enjoyed the

pool that had a sloped shallow area where

they could splash around in warm water.

The sandy area next to the pool was also a

favorite for little ones with games and toys.

A lazy river flowed throughout the waterpark

with inflatable donuts available.

To move around in the resort, there is a golf

cart service operated like uber using an

app. We preferred to drive our cars with

baby seats to get around. It was safer and

more convenient.

On-Site Activities for Adults

Reunion Resort offered a range of amenities

including three championship golf courses

and a top tier golf academy for private and

group lessons, mini-golf, tennis, and pickle

ball. I found time to brush up on my golf

skills during a private lesson at the Golfzon

Leadbetter Academy, while the children

were napping.

On our last night, some of the adults went

to the resort’s Chophouse restaurant. It had

a traditional steak house menu including

French onion soup, steak, and wedge salad

with blue cheese dressing. When we left,

the bar was hopping!

Exploring Kissimmee and Beyond

One of the best things about staying in

Kissimmee is its proximity to theme parks,

outdoor activities and a friendly downtown

area.

Peppa Pig Theme Park & Legoland, were

just a 20-minute drive from our resort and

were perfect for toddlers, with attractions

designed just for them. There were rides,

Peppa shows, splash pads and a restaurant

with a kid-friendly menu. Legoland includes

a spectacular botanical garden, that was

the former Cypress Gardens Park with a

huge banyan tree planted in the 1930’s.

My son was keen to visit Sea World with his

family. They purchased tickets ahead of

time and were able to simply enter the gate.

Within minutes, their children were smitten

by the penguins and other cute sea animals.

We spent a full day in Downtown Kissimmee

starting our day with coffee and a trio of

breakfast tacos at Susana’s Cafe, a cozy

welcoming restaurant with tables inside and

out. The children loved playing on the

swings and slides at Lakefront Park, on

Lake Tohopekaliga. Lunch on the patio at

Big John’s Rockin’ BBQ By the Lake ticked

all the boxes with its delicious brisket and

great sides of Mac n Cheese, sweet potato

fries, and hot cornbread.

On our last day we slowed down, put on

our hiking shoes and headed to the Tibet-

Butler Nature Preserve, a 25-minute drive

from Reunion Resort. It was a hidden gem,

ideal for toddlers, and it was free! We did a

comfortable 2-mile hike to Osprey

Overlook.

While there were signs warning of the presence

of snakes and alligators, thankfully,

the only alligators we saw were baby ones

in the education center.

Our multigenerational trip to Kissimmee

was more than just a vacation. It was a time

to reconnect, unwind, and create unforgettable

memories together. Whether we were

swimming in our private pool or at the

water park, exploring nearby theme parks,

or simply enjoying the comforts of our spacious

vacation home, every moment felt

special. With endless adventures just a

short drive away and all the on-property

amenities, relaxation was effortless.

Kissimmee was the perfect place for our

family getaway. We are already planning

our next family adventure.

www.ExperienceKissimmee.com

87


88

Cruisin’ Down Memory Lane in Oklahoma!

by Randy Mink

with oil wells and grazing cattle. (As a

homeowner whose entire downstairs is decorated

Route 66-style, I was living the

dream.)

Floating in his own pond next to a

picnic area, the Blue Whale of

Catoosa, Oklahoma epitomizes the

kitschy roadside curiosities that motorists

encountered during the heyday of Route 66,

the most fabled highway in America. The

smiling cement behemoth, measuring 80

feet long, is one of the most iconic landmarks

along the legendary ribbon of pavement

that traversed eight U.S. states from

Chicago to Santa Monica, California.

Like many places along the road in

Oklahoma and elsewhere, the whale and

surrounding park are undergoing upgrades

in preparation for Route 66 centennial celebrations

in 2026. Though the east-west corridor,

affectionately known as the Mother

Road, was replaced by superhighways

decades ago, vast stretches of the old twolane

artery are still open to traffic, allowing

travelers to leave the fast lane and see the

real America, a land sprinkled with retro

neon signs, quirky roadside attractions, souvenir

shops, cozy motels and mom-and-pop

diners. Oklahoma has 432 drivable miles of

the historic highway, more than any other

state.

My recent nostalgia-packed road trip started

in Oklahoma’s northeastern corner, near the

borders of Missouri and Kansas, and continued

west toward the Texas line. Besides

charming Main Street communities, I passed

through two big cities—Tulsa and Oklahoma

City—and scenic red-dirt countryside dotted

Architectural Gem

I love old theaters that have been restored to

their movie-palace glory days, so a tour of

the 1929 Coleman Theatre provided a fine

introduction to the town of Miami. A Spanish

Colonial Mission-style building with an opulent

Louis XV interior, the palatial Route 66

venue, financed by a local mining magnate,

boasts rich mahogany woodwork, lots of

gold leaf trim and a “Mighty Wurlitzer” pipe

organ that provides music and sound effects

for the silent movies shown on occasion. The

Coleman’s playbill typically features concerts,

musicals, comedians and other live

performances.

Native American Heritage

In Foyil, Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park,

built between 1937 and 1961, features the


world’s largest concrete totem pole. Painted

bas-relief designs depicting Native

American culture decorate this premier

example of folk art that soars 90 feet into the

sky. Oklahoma was called Indian Territory

before earning statehood in 1907 and today

is home to 39 tribes.

One of the most prominent tribes showcases

its heritage at the impressive Cherokee

Nation Anna Mitchell Cultural and Welcome

Center in Vinita, a pleasant Route 66 stop

between Miami and Foyil.

Claremore’s Claims to Fame

The best-known Cherokee, humoristphilosopher-movie

star Will Rogers, is celebrated

at the Will Rogers Memorial Museum

in Claremore. Noted for his wit and wisdom,

he was arguably the most famous person in

the world in the 1920s and ’30s. Few museums

this large honor someone other than a

U.S. president; there is a lot to see, including

movie clips.

Rogers, whose rise to fame started with a

rope-trick act in vaudeville, was born during

Indian Territory days on a nearby ranch. He

lived in California most of his life but would

visit Claremore and intended to retire on the

hilltop where the museum and his burial site

reside. The world mourned when Rogers’ life

was cut short by a plane crash in Alaska in

1935.

At the Claremore Museum of History, visitors

can view a clip from the classic Rodgers &

Hammerstein Broadway musical

“Oklahoma!” and its most notable artifact,

“The Surrey with the Fringe on Top,” a carriage

featured in the 1955 movie version as

Gordon MacRae serenaded Shirley Jones

with the namesake song. The museum

devotes one room to local playwright Lynn

Riggs, whose play “Green Grow the Lilacs”

was adapted into the musical. It also spotlights

Claremore’s Patti Page, “The Singin’

Rage,” one of the 1950s’ top recording

artists.

Oversized Roadside Oddities

Thanks to the state’s grant program targeting

Route 66’s 100th anniversary, travelers

dropping by Catoosa’s Blue Whale soon will

find a spiffy new visitor center, neon sign,

picnic area and playground, along with a

waterfall, pond-circling path and nature

trails. Built by Hugh Davis for his wife in

1972, the site became a play area for their

grandkids and then a swim park/fishing

hole enjoyed by locals and Route 66 wayfarers.

Mother Road enthusiasts find numerous

treasures in Tulsa. Selfie spots in the

Meadow Gold District, named for the huge

neon dairy company sign that lights up the

night sky, include the newly installed space

cowboy and cowgirl statues at Buck Atom’s

Cosmic Curios souvenir store, one of several

fun shops and galleries on 11th Street. Such

20-foot-tall fiberglass figures, referred to as

“Muffler Men” by pop culture historians,

were considered the height of outdoor

advertising in the 1960s. Ike’s Chili, Tulsa’s

oldest restaurant, has graced the district

since 2014. Try its scrumptious chili in a

coney, over spaghetti or in a bowl with mac

and cheese.

Sapulpa, just outside of Tulsa, offers an inviting

downtown shopping core that will be

even more attractive when its streetscape

redesign is completed. The Teepee Drive-In,

an outdoor movie theater dating from the

1950s, was recently restored and accommodates

up to 300 cars. Other Sapulpa crowdpleasers

include Heart of Route 66 Auto

Museum, where you can ogle classic cars

and pose by the world’s tallest gas pump (66

feet).

More Route 66 Crowd-Pleasers

Heading toward Oklahoma City, most road

trippers stop in Stroud, whose anchor business

is the Rock Cafe, a Route 66 favorite

since 1939. Owner Dawn Welch was the

inspiration behind the character Sally

Carrera in Disney/Pixar’s 2006 animated

film “Cars;” movie memorabilia lines the

walls. I had the meatloaf special, but the

chicken-fried steak and German-inspired

dishes were tempting. The biscuits are the

best anywhere and often sell out early.

Arcadia boasts two irresistible photo stops.

The Round Barn, a handsome red landmark

brought back from the brink of collapse by

dedicated volunteers in their 70s,

89

dates from 1898. Pops 66, an ultramodern

glass building housing a

diner/soda fountain, sports a futuristic, 66-

foot-tall, LED-lit soda pop bottle and sells

more than 700 varieties of pop. Flavors

range from birthday cake to honeydew

melon.

Oklahoma City, El Reno and Clinton

Oklahoma City, the state capital, claims the

only Asian District on Route 66. Home to a

thriving Vietnamese community, it’s a culinary

hotspot. For the nostalgia-minded and

musically inclined, the American Banjo

Museum in the Bricktown arts and entertainment

district is a must.

El Reno is home to the onion burger, an

Oklahoma specialty. A Depression-era creation

concocted to bolster the size of the

ground beef patty, it’s made by smashing

thinly fried onions into the meat frying on the

grill. The caramelized onions form a savory

crust on the burger, enhancing its flavor and

texture. Renowned El Reno burger joints are

Sid’s Diner, Johnnie’s Hamburgers &

Coneys, Robert’s Grill and Jobe’s Country

Boy Drive-In.

The town of Clinton claims the largest museum

on Route 66. The first-rate Oklahoma

Route 66 Museum covers all eight states

threaded by the highway. With a soundtrack

of classic tunes from each era, exhibits document

the road’s history decade by decade.

Push a button in the 1950s gallery, for

example, and hear Elvis Presley belting out

“Heartbreak Hotel.” The 1930s gallery

sheds light on the Dust Bowl, an extended

period of drought that drove thousands of

Oklahomans to a more promising future

westward. The troubled times were

described in “The Grapes of Wrath” by John

Steinbeck, who referred to Route 66 as “the

mother road, the road of flight.”

Though the highway of dreams was officially

decommissioned in 1985, its spirit lives on.

Route 66 is a true slice of Americana.

www.travelok.com/route66

www.oklahomaroute66.com


90

France in the Caribbean

Escape to Martinique’s Beaches, Rainforests, and Culture

Article and photography by Judi Cohen

Martinique is a small, mountainous,

and relatively lesser-known

island in the

Caribbean. As an overseas French territory

in the Lesser Antilles, it lies between

Dominica and St. Lucia—offering travelers

a unique taste of France in the Caribbean.

Here, I discovered a rich blend of African,

French, and West Indian cultures, deeprooted

history, and a wealth of adventure—

all in a UNESCO-designated paradise.

I recently returned from my first visit, crisscrossing

the island from the Atlantic Ocean

to the Caribbean Sea, and from the south to

the north. I heard it called a “hidden gem”

many times—and now I understand why.

Here are five reasons Martinique should be

your next Caribbean island getaway.

1. Nature – A UNESCO Paradise

Martinique’s natural beauty is jaw-dropping,

and one of the best ways to experience

it is on foot. I set out on the Couleuvre

Waterfall Trail in Le Prêcheur. The 3 km

roundtrip hike to Martinique’s tallest waterfall

was a steep climb with a 250-metre vertical

rise. I scrambled over roots and flowing

creeks in the dense rainforest beneath tow-

ering monkey trees and bamboo stands. I

spotted colorful flowers, noisy birds, tiny

green lizards, and twisted hanging vines.

Just a five-minute walk away is Anse

Couleuvre, one of the island’s notable

black sand beaches.

For avid hikers and nature lovers, Mount

Pelée—rising to 1,397 metres above sea

level—is a major draw. In 2023, the volcano

and its surrounding rainforests were

designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The entire island also became part of

UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere

Reserves in 2021.


2. Boutique Hotels & One All-Inclusive Resort

Unlike other Caribbean islands dominated

by large resorts, Martinique offers independently

owned boutique hotels, ecolodges,

villas—and just one all-inclusive

beach resort.

At the southern tip of the island is Club Med

Buccaneer’s Creek, Martinique’s only allinclusive.

Built on a former palm farm, the

resort captures the island’s laid-back charm

with hammocks and lounge chairs lining the

beach under swaying palms. Opened in

1969 and recently renovated, the resort was

buzzing with French-speaking families from

France and Canada.

My two-night stay at Village Pomme

Cannelle, tucked into the mountains near Le

Prêcheur, was a tranquil escape with breathtaking

views of Mount Pelée in one direction

and the Caribbean Sea in the other. My cozy

studio suite had a standalone tub, separate

bathroom and shower, and a dining terrace

perfect for morning coffee with views over

the pool and ocean.

At Hôtel Bambou in Trois-Îlets, I was

immersed in Creole culture with vibrantly

painted bungalows, traditional cuisine, and

a beachfront location at Anse Mitan.

After an off-road drive accessible only by

4WD, we arrived at Ecolodge Parfurat,

perched on a farm overlooking the Atlantic

Ocean. The owners welcomed us as goats

roamed nearby. With just 14 guest accommodations,

the lodge blends eco-conscious

travel with understated luxury. I wandered

through organic gardens and sipped fresh

guava juice while enjoying accras de morue

(salt cod fritters) on a sunny terrace beside

an infinity pool.

3. Beaches and Boating

One highlight of my trip was experiencing

Martinique from the water. Early one morning,

we boarded Kata Mambo 2, an electric

catamaran, at the marina in Les Trois-Îlets.

We sailed across the Bay of Fort-de-France

with the warm Caribbean breeze in our hair

and turquoise waters swirling below. Before

anchoring in a quiet cove surrounded by

steep cliffs, we watched pods of leaping porpoises

and then snorkeled with sea turtles in

the crystal-clear sea.

Later, back on the sandy Club Med beach,

we were invited by Captain Steeve to sail

aboard Yole Ronde—a traditional light,

tapered boat once used by fishers and now

central to Martinique’s national sport.

Learning I would need to balance on long

poles extending off the hull, I politely

declined and joined the escort boat instead.

From there, I marveled at the athleticism

and grace of the yole crew. Our boat carried

musicians from Association Tanbou K’raib,

adding rhythm and energy to the experience.

4. History and Culture

Martinique’s lush, green landscapes hide a

painful past. African slaves were once

brought here to work the sugar cane plantations—a

practice abolished in 1848. Visiting

La Savane des Esclaves, an open-air museum

in Les Trois-Îlets, was moving and eyeopening.

Founded by Martinique native Gilbert

Larose, who spent 24 years building the

museum, it serves as a powerful reminder of

the island’s history. “Slavery has left us with

many scars,” Larose told us during a private

tour. “But it’s important for me to tell the

story to my children, grandchildren, and visitors

to the island.”

Another cultural highlight was discovering

the art of rhum agricole, Martinique’s signature

rum made from fresh sugarcane juice

rather than molasses. The island’s rums

carry a prestigious AOC designation, similar

to fine wines.

At Habitation Clément, a former distillery

turned museum, I toured the old Creole

mansion, dating back to 17th century, and

learned how sugarcane is transformed into

rhum agricole, followed by tastings.

At Distillerie Depaz, perched at the base of

Mont Pelée, I walked through sugarcane

fields, visited the historic family mansion,

toured the production facilities, and sampled

a range of rums.

In downtown Fort-de-France, hidden

91

within the crumbling Palais de Justice,

I found the Atelier Artperkut studio of

Sylviane Eneleda. She crafts the dramatic

Carnival masks for Martinique’s famous celebration.

With Carnival just a day away, she

proudly showed us her intricate creations

and explained the traditions behind them.

5. Culinary Paradise

No visit to Martinique would be complete

without diving into its incredible cuisine.

From grilled lobster and fresh-caught fish to

accras de morue and colombo de poulet—a

fragrant chicken dish influenced by Indian

flavors—the food was consistently delicious

and deeply satisfying.

At Habitation Céron, a 17th-century estate,

turned cocoa farm and agro-tourism site, we

enjoyed a farm-to-table lunch beneath a

thatched roof with fresh rum punch. A walk

through the tropical gardens led us to a

massive 350-year-old zamana tree—once

voted the most beautiful tree in France—and

smaller trees draped in spider webs. One

worker coaxed a tarantula from its web to

crawl across his hand. (Don’t try this yourself!)

On the beach at Le Petibonum restaurant in

Le Carbet, “Chef Hot Pants,” as he’s affectionately

known, served seafood caught by

local fishers alongside local rums and beers.

His colombo over rice was richly spiced and

full of flavor.

As my journey came to a close, I felt

immense gratitude for the experiences I had

packed into just five days. I had tasted,

explored, and immersed myself in

Martinique’s nature, culture, and cuisine.

Yet, I left knowing the island still holds many

more stories, secrets, and surprises. This

truly is a hidden gem that offers the best of

both France and the Caribbean—and I hope

to return to uncover more of the magic on

the Island of Flowers.

Air Canada flies direct from Toronto to

Martinique seasonally from mid-December to

mid-April, and direct from Montreal yearround.

www.martinique.org/en


Exodus Perfection Through

Magnificent Sri Lanka

Article & Photography by Michael Morcos

Every once in a while, a journey leaves

a lasting mark—not just through

breathtaking scenery or rich culture,

but through the people who guide you and the

thoughtfulness behind every detail. This was

precisely the case when I joined Exodus

Adventure Travels on their “Sri Lankan

Highlights” tour, a remarkable journey

through the teardrop-shaped island of Sri

Lanka that far exceeded my already high

expectations.

The Spirit Behind Exodus Adventure Travels

Before diving into the delights of Sri Lanka

itself, it’s worth reflecting on what makes

Exodus such a standout in the world of adventure

travel. Founded nearly 50 years ago by a

group of overland trailblazers, Exodus has

since evolved into one of the most trusted

names in small group and tailor-made tours

around the globe. Their commitment to

responsible, sustainable, and immersive travel

is not only commendable—it’s visible in every

part of the experience.

Navigating their website, is a journey in itself.

With intuitive filters, insightful trip notes, and

engaging multimedia content, it’s incredibly

easy to plan your next adventure. Whether

you’re after a cultural deep dive, a cycling

escapade, or wildlife immersion, their offerings

span more than 100 countries with varying

degrees of activity and comfort. But what

truly sets them apart is the expertise of their

guides, their dedication to local partnerships,

and their commitment to leaving a positive

impact wherever they operate.


First Impressions of Sri Lanka

I landed in Colombo with excitement bubbling

beneath my jet lag. Even from the plane window,

the patchwork of lush jungles, tea plantations,

and golden beaches hinted at the

diversity this island promised. The Exodus

team greeted our group at the airport with

warm smiles and cold bottles of water—small

gestures that instantly conveyed their professionalism.

Our group was a friendly mix of international

travelers, ranging from solo adventurers to

families and friends traveling together. The

small group size—typical of Exodus—meant

we’d share this experience closely, yet never

feel lost in a crowd.

An Itinerary That Tells a Story

The beauty of the Sri Lankan Highlights itinerary

is in how seamlessly it weaves together

history, nature, spirituality, and local life. Over

nine days, we traversed a route that covered

the country’s central and southern heartlands,

each stop revealing a new facet of Sri Lanka’s

identity.

Wattala: A Gentle Introduction

After checking into our cozy hotel in Wattala,

we enjoyed a welcome dinner where we met

our guide, Ilham—a fountain of knowledge,

humor, and passion for his country. Over

plates of fragrant rice and curry, he outlined

the week ahead. From ancient cities to misty

highlands and wildlife parks, we were in for

an unforgettable ride.

Climbing Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Venturing inland, one of our first major stops,

we faced the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress,

often referred to as the “eighth wonder of the

world.” Towering nearly 200 meters above the

surrounding plains, this ancient citadel is both

a historical marvel and an architectural feat.

As we ascended narrow stairways and spiral

climbs—pausing to admire the famed frescoes

of celestial maidens and mirror wall—

Ilham regaled us with the story of King

Kashyapa, who built this stronghold in the 5th

century. At the summit, the panoramic views

were nothing short of breathtaking. Jungle

stretched as far as the eye could see, and a

cooling breeze swept over the foundations of

the once-royal palace.

Cycling Through Polonnaruwa

Exodus always finds creative ways to experi-

ence destinations, and cycling through the

ancient city of Polonnaruwa was a highlight.

With small crowds in sight, we pedaled past

crumbling temples, giant Buddha statues, and

overgrown ruins—each telling stories from Sri

Lanka’s golden age. It was both peaceful and

fascinating, a perfect way to absorb the history

while staying active. A lakeside picnic followed,

with fresh fruit and local snacks as

reward for our morning’s effort.

Wild Encounters

From misty mountains, we descended to the

dry scrublands of Habarana eco park. The terrain

was raw and wild, a stark contrast to the

gentle hills we’d left behind. Our safari

through the park was nothing short of thrilling.

Ilham, joined by a skilled local tracker, expertly

navigated the dusty trails. We encountered

many families of elephants grazing about.

Also, found in the park are herds of spotted

deer, and majestic leopards. It was an unforgettable

immersion into Sri Lanka’s natural

wonders.

Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla, home to a truly remarkable cave

temple complex. The Dambulla Cave Temple,

a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a place of

spiritual power and artistic brilliance. Tucked

into a massive rock outcrop, the five sanctuaries

within contain over 150 Buddha statues

and murals that span centuries. The serenity

inside was almost tangible, the scent of

incense lingering in the cool stone air as I

walked from chamber to chamber, marveling

at the vivid frescoes and craftsmanship.

Spice Gardens and Kandy’s Sacred Tooth

As we made our way to Kandy, we stopped at

a spice garden nestled in the countryside.

Cinnamon bark, cardamom pods, cloves, and

nutmeg filled the air as we walked through

rows of plants and trees. The demonstration

on how these spices are grown and processed

gave me a deeper appreciation for the flavors

of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Kandy itself was a cultural gem. This hill city,

rich in history and spirituality, is home to the

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic—one of the

most revered Buddhist sites in the world.

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Pilgrims quietly filed into the temple complex,

bearing lotus flowers and incense, and I

joined them, absorbing the calm, devotional

atmosphere. That evening, a cultural show

brought the city’s traditions to life with energetic

drumming, vibrant costumes, and aweinspiring

fire dances.

Scenic Rail to Ella

The journey continued aboard the famous

train from Nanu Oya to Ella, widely considered

one of the most scenic train rides in the

world. The old blue train ambled through

emerald tea plantations, across rickety

bridges, and past smiling villagers waving

from the tracks. I spent most of the ride standing

by the open door, letting the wind whip

through my hair and taking in views that no

photograph could ever fully capture.

Ella itself was a charming mountain town with

a relaxed vibe. A hike up Little Adam’s Peak

rewarded us with sweeping views of the valley

below, and the golden light of sunset made

the moment feel almost otherworldly.

Into the Tea Country of Nuwara Eliya

Climbing higher into the central highlands, we

arrived in Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little

England” due to its colonial-era buildings,

cool climate, and manicured gardens. The

drive itself was stunning—winding roads

flanked by waterfalls and endless green hills

blanketed in tea. We visited a working tea factory

where we followed the journey from freshly

picked leaves to the aromatic tea in our

cups. The attention to detail in every stage,

combined with the backdrop of the misty hills,

made for a serene and educational visit.

Colombo: A Capital Full of Contrast

Before parting ways, we spent a short but

engaging time exploring Colombo, Sri

Lanka’s vibrant capital. This coastal metropolis

offers a fascinating blend of old and new.

We toured colonial-era landmarks like the

Old Parliament and Independence Memorial

Hall, strolled through the busy Pettah Market,

and admired the towering Lotus Tower from

afar. Colombo’s wide boulevards, lively street

scenes, and ever-evolving skyline gave us one

final taste of the country’s diversity and energy.

Departure

As we parted ways at the airport, I reflected on

the richness of this journey. Sri Lanka had

offered so much—history, wildlife, landscapes,

and heart—but it was Exodus who had tied it

all together with grace and precision.

More Than Just Sightseeing

What I appreciated most about this tour was

its balance. While we visited many iconic

sights, there was ample time for spontaneous

stops, quiet reflection, and authentic encounters

with locals. Whether chatting with tea

pickers, exploring a village market, or sampling

street snacks, Exodus encouraged us to

connect, not just consume.

Moreover, their sustainability efforts are more

than just a checkbox. From plastic-free initiatives

to supporting local businesses, every

detail reflects their ethos. Accommodations

were locally owned, meals featured regional

ingredients, and our transport—efficient and

comfortable—minimized environmental

impact.

A Community of Curious Travelers

One of the intangible joys of an Exodus tour is

the people you meet. Our group bonded

quickly, sharing not only the sights but also the

occasional challenge (rainy hikes, early mornings)

and countless laughs. With only 10 travelers,

the camaraderie felt natural and easy.

Ilham, our guide, played a big role—his deep

knowledge, humor, and warmth brought the

country to life in a way no guidebook ever

could.

Final Thoughts

Exodus Adventure Travels does more than

guide you through a destination—they

immerse you in it, connect you with its people,

and leave you changed for the better. Their Sri

Lankan Highlights tour is a masterclass in

experiential travel, blending adventure with

insight, comfort with authenticity.

Sri Lanka, with its vibrant diversity and generous

spirit, stole my heart. And Exodus ensured

it was a trip I’ll never forget.

For those seeking to experience the world with

open eyes, open hearts, and thoughtful guidance,

I wholeheartedly recommend exploring

with Exodus. Their journeys are not only welldesigned

but deeply meaningful—and that,

after all, is what travel should be.

www.exodustravels.com


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