Timeless Travel RSS Feed

Gratuities: Handled. Europe: Next.

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 27 Apr 26 15:20:25 +0000

Avalon Waterways has redefined cruising by going against the current and away from the ordinary. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts your clients in the captain’s seat to navigate their journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as they cruise down the world’s most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. One step aboard our modern, luxurious Suite Ships with the grandest views in cruising and they’ll see how the tides they are a-changin’.

Welcome to a new wave in cruising. Welcome aboard Avalon Waterways.

Contact us today to learn more.

Air Canada Vacations: 7-Night Caribbean Cruise with Flights from $2,999 on Harmony of the Seas

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 20 Apr 26 17:16:43 +0000

🌴 Explore the Caribbean with Air Canada Vacations

Set sail in peak season on an unforgettable 7-night Caribbean cruise aboard Harmony of the Seas, paired with convenient flights and exceptional onboard value. This all-in package is perfect for clients looking to combine iconic destinations, top-tier amenities, and outstanding savings.

Cruising round-trip from Orlando (Port Canaveral), you’ll experience some of the Caribbean’s most popular stops, including St. Thomas, Nassau, and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

✨ What’s Included

Round-trip economy flights from Toronto or Montreal to Orlando
7-night cruise aboard Harmony of the Seas
Boardwalk View Balcony stateroom
All transfers between airport and cruise port
Meals and gratuities onboard
Deluxe Beverage Package
Surf & Stream Internet Package
Two cocktail parties
US$50 onboard credit per stateroom
One checked bag and one carry-on per person

Transfers, gratuities, internet, and beverages are valued at over $1,400 per person.

🚢 Onboard Highlights

Enjoy access to over 50 daily activities, including:

Ultimate Abyss and Perfect Storm waterslides
Zip lining nine decks above the boardwalk
FlowRider surf simulator
Rock climbing wall, mini golf, and ice skating
Live music, themed parties, outdoor movie nights, and more

Use your onboard credit for optional experiences like wine tastings, escape rooms, or scuba certification.

🗺️ Itinerary Snapshot

Day 1: Depart Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida
Days 2–3: Cruising
Day 4: Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Day 5: Cruising
Day 6: Nassau, Bahamas
Day 7: Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas
Day 8: Return to Orlando

Itinerary subject to change.

📅 Booking Details

Book between: April 13 – June 30, 2026
Travel between: January 9 – January 16, 2027
From: $2,999 per person

Contact us today to learn more and book your next adventure.

WestJet Vacations: Kids stay free at Moon Palace Resorts

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 20 Apr 26 16:02:40 +0000

Enjoy fun for the whole family at Moon Palace Resorts and Family Palace Resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. These family-friendly resorts are a paradise for kids and teens, while still offering all the amenities adults love on vacation.

17 and under stay free at:
Moon Palace Cancun
Moon Palace The Grand Cancun
Playacar Palace
Cozumel Palace
Moon Palace Jamaica
Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos

Take advantage of this offer for kids and teens (17 and under) to stay, play and eat for free when booking a WestJet Vacations package.

Contact your travel advisor for details.

WestJet Vacations: Free Kid at Meliá Casa Maya

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 20 Apr 26 16:00:50 +0000

Located alongside one of the most beautiful beaches in Cancun, this all-inclusive resort is ideal for families. It offers suites with ocean views, a water park, activities for all ages and an environment that combines the Caribbean and Mayan culture for an unforgettable vacation.

Enjoy the authentic flavors in its bars and restaurants, discover the local culture through cultural experiences that enrich every moment, and create special memories with the people you love most. And if you want to take your experience to the next level, The Level rooms offer exclusive services and personalized attention in a sophisticated ambience, ideal for relaxing and being pampered.

Contact your travel advisor for details.

Air Canada Vacations: Save $1,000 per family of 4* or $250 per person*

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 20 Apr 26 15:55:39 +0000

Plan ahead and save on next winter's escape

Save $1,000 per family of 4* or $250 per person* on select packages to Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America & more. Offer ends June 28 for departures between November 1, 2026 and April 30, 2027.

Contact your travel advisor for details.

Up to 50% Off Stays in Myrtle Beach

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 20 Apr 26 15:52:38 +0000

Canadian citizens looking to visit the beach can now receive deep discounts up to 50% off on stays of 7 nights or longer from 9 oceanfront Myrtle Beach resorts:

• Captain’s Quarters Oceanfront Resort • Crown Reef Beach Resort & Waterpark • The Caravelle Resort • Beach Cove Resort • Sea Watch Resort • Hotel Blue • The Palace Resort • Beach Colony Resort • Carolina Winds Resort • Forest Dunes Resort • Ocean Creek Resort • Landmark Oceanfront Resort

Contact your travel advisor for details.

Save 15% on select Family and Classic tours

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 20 Apr 26 15:48:09 +0000

Make family adventures unforgettable with G Adventures!

Save 15% on select Family and Classic tours and explore the world together. From Costa Rica’s lush rainforests to Belize’s Caribbean shores, Japan’s bustling cities, and Morocco’s colorful markets, our small-group adventures connect you with local culture and create memories for all ages. Fun for kids, enriching for adults, and effortless for parents — travel, discover, and share experiences the G Adventures way.

FEATURED ITINERARY

Costa Rica Family Experience
9 days | San Jose to San Jose

Nothing brings learning to life like real-world experience. This week-long trip’s engaging lesson plan gives kids an education in biology and ecology that can never be found in a textbook. Here, spend the days (and nights!) studying the flora and fauna that inhabit the cloud forest and Manuel Antonio National Park. Elsewhere, get in touch with the land by rappelling, rafting, swimming, horseback-riding, and even surfing all over it. Science + gym? You do the math.

Regular price from $2649 CAD pp adult / $2359 CAD pp child

On sale for $2252 CAD pp adult / $2005 CAD pp child

Contact your travel advisor for details.

Receive VIP Amenities For The Whole Family!

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 20 Apr 26 15:46:46 +0000

Enjoy a luxurious Florida escape beginning with three nights at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, complete with dinner at Hard Rock Cafe and a scenic Miami helicopter ride. Continue to Casa Marina Key West for snorkeling, a catamaran trip, and a guided bike tour. Spend two relaxing nights at the Ritz‑Carlton Naples with a manatee and dolphin cruise before ending with four nights at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, perfectly situated to explore Orlando's famous theme parks. Bookable on Bedsonline’s Luxury Collection with VIP amenities throughout.

Miami, Key West, Naples & Orlando trip with luxury stays, tours, cruises, theme parks, and VIP perks through Bedsonline’s Luxury Collection!

Contact your travel advisor for more details!

Up to 40% Off Cruise Rates, 50% Reduced Deposits, and Up to $25 in Onboard Credit

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Mon, 20 Apr 26 15:45:29 +0000

Find your fun again on your next Carnival cruise. Take advantage of *40% off cruise rates, *50% reduced deposits, and up to $25 in onboard credit on sailings through April 2028 when you book a Carnival cruise by May 31st.

FEATURED SAILING

CRUISE Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral
SHIP Carnival Vista®
DEPARTS Port Canaveral (Orlando), FL
PORTS Port Canaveral; Amber Cove; RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay™; Celebration Key™; Port Canaveral
DURATION 6 Days
DATES October 11 – October 17, 2026
Cruise from $599 per person Ocean View Stateroom

Contact your travel advisor for more information!

Save Up To 30% and More for Holland America Line’s Anniversary Sale

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Sat, 18 Apr 26 04:00:17 +0000

For 153 years, Holland America Line has been inviting guests to join this storied cruise line on the seas. Only for April, it’s saying ‘thank you’ with a month-long Anniversary Sale featuring discounts, onboard credits, reduced deposits, and free fares for kids.

Holland America Line’s Anniversary Sale Details

Get:

Up to 30% off cruise-only fares
onboard credits up to USD 400 per stateroom,
50% reduced deposits, and
free third and fourth kids when traveling in the same stateroom—making it the perfect time to book a cruise vacation.
Book by: April 30, 2026
Travel: departures from April 2026 through Spring 2027
Cruise durations: 4 to 69-day cruises

Sailings across all Holland America Line regions are part of the offer:

Alaska cruises and Cruisetours,
Caribbean,
Canada/New England,
Northern Europe,
Mediterranean,
Australia/New Zealand,
South America/Antarctica,
the Pacific Coast,
Hawaii,
Tahiti,
Panama Canal,
Mexico and Asia.

Collectors’ Voyages, which combine two back-to-back, non-repeating itineraries, are also included in the sale.

Anniversary Sale Combines with ‘Have It All’ Premium Fare

The Anniversary Sale is combinable with Holland America Line’s popular “Have it All” premium fare. When booking with Have It All, in addition to the Anniversary Sale fare discounts, onboard credit, free third and fourth kids, and reduced deposits, guests also receive four high-value amenities: shore excursions, a Signature Beverage Package, specialty dining, and a Wi-Fi Surf Package.

Spend Your Onboard Credit Good on Dining, Shore Excursions, and More

When you get up to $400 per stateroom onboard credit (depending on stateroom category and length of cruise) during HAL’s Anniversary Sale, you can use it for a variety of amenities, including specialty dining, spa services, shore excursions, gift shop purchases, beverages, photography, and more.

3rd or 4th Guests – Kids Sail Free on Select Cruises

Whether it’s exploring the glaciers of Alaska or soaking up the sun in the Caribbean on a multigenerational family cruise, third and fourth guests ages 18 and under can cruise for free on select departures when traveling in the same stateroom. This makes a family getaway even more affordable.

ASK US HOW TO TAKE MAXIMUM ADVANTAGE OF THIS SALE!

Hundreds of cruises and Alaska Cruisetours on all ships are included in the Anniversary Sale. Example departures and per person, double occupancy starting fares:

7-day Alaska Explorer on Noordam, May 3, 2026, starting at $103 per person per day.
7-day Canada & New England: UNESCO Sites & Quebecois Nights on Zuiderdam, May 2, 2026, starting at $79 per person per day.
9-day Southern Caribbean on Nieuw Amsterdam, Oct. 30, 2026, starting at $89 per person per day.
10-day Signature Denali Alaska Cruisetour on Nieuw Amsterdam, May 31, 2026, starting at $100 per person per day.
7-Day Eastern Caribbean Holiday: San Juan & St. Thomas on Eurodam, December 19, 2026, starting at $143 per person per day.
35-day Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse on Zuiderdam, July 18, 2026, starting at $240 per person per day.

Taxes and fees are included in the fare. The Anniversary Sale is not valid on cruises of three days or less or Grand Voyages.

More About Holland America Line

Holland America Line has been exploring the world for more than 150 years with expertly crafted itineraries, extraordinary service, and genuine connections to the destinations. Offering a perfectly-sized ship experience, its fleet of 11 vessels visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world and has shared the thrill of Alaska for more than 75 years — longer than any other cruise line. Savor the Journey isn’t just their tagline; it’s a reinforcement that the cruise line provides experiences too good to hurry through, connecting travelers to the world and each other. Award-winning enrichment programming, entertainment, and cuisine that brings each locale on board, including a revolutionary Global Fresh Fish Program, put Holland America Line at the forefront of premium cruising. Holland America Line is part of Carnival Corporation, the world’s largest cruise company.

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

*** Image courtesy of Holland America Line

Save Up to $1,000 Per Family or $250 Per Person on Warm Weather Getaways

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Wed, 15 Apr 26 14:58:04 +0000

Up to $1,000 Off Per Family or $250 Per Person on Warm Weather Getaways

Skip the cold and stay warm next winter with select sunny packages.

Terms: Valid until June 2, 2026.

Next Winter Made Warmer

ksmallcanyon@travelsavers.com (Kendra) — Wed, 15 Apr 26 14:51:56 +0000

Book your Flight & Cruise package and save $250 per pair on the flight portion*.

Applicable to select Flight & Cruise packages to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Hawaii.

Terms: Valid for new bookings made April 13 through June 28, 2026.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Up to $100 Onboard Credit on Select Sailings

ejoyce@travelsavers.net (Erin Joyce) — Wed, 15 Apr 26 04:00:13 +0000

OUT HERE, WE LET THE OUTSIDE IN. There’s something for everyone on an Alaska cruise with Norwegian, which makes this journey of a lifetime perfect for summer vacation, spring break, a family reunion and more. Let the wonder of the outside in, aboard any of the ships to bring you closer to the wild in Alaska. Witness whales splash out in the fjords, take a stroll through the Tongass National Forest or dive into an Alaskan feast. Plus, receive up to $100 onboard credit + up to $1,500 Off all Cruises + Free at Sea™ Package + Kids Sail Free & more!

FEATURED SAILING:

CRUISE: Alaska: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau
SHIP: Norwegian Encore®
DURATION: 7 Days
DATES: August – October 2026 & May 2026 – September 2027
Starting at $1,369 per person based on September 13, 2026

Other dates and itineraries are available, ask your travel advisor for details on the exclusive VIP program.

This offer is valid for booking through 12/31/2026

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

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 14 Apr 26 21:45:51 +0000

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other River-Meets-Ocean Inspired Windstar Cruises

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

Growing Windstar Fleet

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

START YOUR TRIP!

Image courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Turning Family History Into Meaningful Travel

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 14 Apr 26 21:44:21 +0000

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

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

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

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

Ancestry Travel Hotspots

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

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

How to do Ancestry Travel?

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

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

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

Here are tips to get the most from ancestry travel:

Do the Homework (But be Realistic)

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

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

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

Bring in a Local Expert

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

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

Balance Roots With Real Travel

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

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

Strike up Conversations

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

Bring documents. Smile. Be curious. And friendly.

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

Manage Your Expectations

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

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

START YOUR TRIP!

Image: Getty

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

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 14 Apr 26 21:42:53 +0000

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

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

Emerald Kaia and the Rise of Yacht-Style Cruising

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Norwegian Luna, A Ship That’s Its Own Destination

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate Vehicle for Multi-generational Travel

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

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

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

Beyond the Ship: The Rise of Curated Destinations

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

The Big Takeaway: A Cruise Style for Every Traveler

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

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

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Emerald Cruises/ Scenic Group and Norwegian Cruise Line

5 Spectacular Annual Flower Shows Worth Planning a Trip Around

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Tue, 14 Apr 26 21:40:56 +0000

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

1. Keukenhof Gardens — Netherlands

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

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

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

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

2. Chelsea Flower Show — London, UK

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

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

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

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

3. Floriade Canberra — Canberra, Australia

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

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

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

4. Chiang Mai Flower Festival — Chiang Mai, Thailand

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

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

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

5. Genzano Infiorata — Genzano, Italy

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

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

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

START YOUR TRIP!

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

Images: Getty

Royal Caribbean: Receive Up to $50 Onboard Credit

ejoyce@travelsavers.net (Erin Joyce) — Tue, 14 Apr 26 19:45:26 +0000

MAX OUT EVERY SINGLE MOMENT OF FAMILY TIME WITH THE BIGGEST, BOLDEST, most adventure-packed family vacation ever. Conquer Category 6 — the largest waterpark at sea — with six pulse-pounding slides from mat racers to raft slides. Kick back at seven extra-chill pools, like the 40,000-gallon Royal Bay Pool and family-friendly soak zones at Splashaway Bay. Experience a family vacation with more for everyone than you ever imagined — only on the Icons.

FEATURED SAILING:

CRUISE: Western Caribbean & Perfect Day
SHIP: Star of the Seas
DURATION: 7 Nights
PORTS: Port Canaveral, FL; Perfect Day Cococay, Bahamas; Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico; Port Canaveral, FL
DATES: October 11, 2026

Starting from $1,984 for a Oceanview balcony
Price includes taxes & fees.

Other dates and itineraries are available, ask your travel advisor for details on the exclusive VIP program.

This offer is valid for booking through 2026-05-31

TravelBrands: Receive a $50 FUN Credit per child

ejoyce@travelsavers.net (Erin Joyce) — Tue, 14 Apr 26 19:12:26 +0000

Set Sail for Family Fun and Receive a $50 FUN Credit per child with Encore Cruises.

Make family memories at sea. Book a sailing in a balcony stateroom or higher between April 1 and May 31, 2026, for travel between April 1-August 31, 2026, and receive a $50 Fun Credit per child to spend onboard—perfect for extra family fun.

Contact our travel agency for details!

This offer is valid for booking through 2026-05-31

A Family Escape with Thoughtful Extras

ejoyce@travelsavers.net (Erin Joyce) — Tue, 14 Apr 26 18:55:31 +0000

No one will be bored when you stay at one of our Family Collection hotels: scuba diving, family mini golf, sandcastle contests and more!

Little ones can have a blast at the Mini Club, while teens will appreciate the free Wi-Fi available so they can stay connected. Parents can enjoy a relaxing moment at the spa, and everyone can come together for an exceptional meal and lively entertainment in the evening. Because the best vacations are the ones where everyone gets to do their thing and stay happy!

Exclusive benefits with Transat:
• Kids stay and eat for free1
• Deals for teens (13-17 years old)2
• Solo parent promo (no single supplement)3
• Early check-in or late check-out4
• Extended Kids’ Club hours5
• Access to on-site waterpark6
• Standard seat assignment for your family7
• Free Wi-Fi8

Contact our travel agency for details.

This offer is valid for booking through 2026-05-31

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Gratuities: Handled. Europe: Next.

Air Canada Vacations: 7-Night Caribbean Cruise with Flights from $2,999 on Harmony of the Seas

🌴 Explore the Caribbean with Air Canada Vacations

✨ What’s Included

🚢 Onboard Highlights

🗺️ Itinerary Snapshot

📅 Booking Details

WestJet Vacations: Kids stay free at Moon Palace Resorts

WestJet Vacations: Free Kid at Meliá Casa Maya

Air Canada Vacations: Save $1,000 per family of 4* or $250 per person*

Up to 50% Off Stays in Myrtle Beach

Save 15% on select Family and Classic tours

Make family adventures unforgettable with G Adventures!

Receive VIP Amenities For The Whole Family!

Up to 40% Off Cruise Rates*, 50% Reduced Deposits, and Up to $25 in Onboard Credit*

Save Up To 30% and More for Holland America Line’s Anniversary Sale

Holland America Line’s Anniversary Sale Details

Anniversary Sale Combines with ‘Have It All’ Premium Fare

Spend Your Onboard Credit Good on Dining, Shore Excursions, and More

3rd or 4th Guests – Kids Sail Free on Select Cruises

ASK US HOW TO TAKE MAXIMUM ADVANTAGE OF THIS SALE!

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Save Up to $1,000 Per Family or $250 Per Person on Warm Weather Getaways

Next Winter Made Warmer

Norwegian Cruise Line: Up to $100 Onboard Credit on Select Sailings

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

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Other River-Meets-Ocean Inspired Windstar Cruises

Growing Windstar Fleet

START YOUR TRIP!

Turning Family History Into Meaningful Travel

Ancestry Travel Hotspots

How to do Ancestry Travel?

Here are tips to get the most from ancestry travel:

Do the Homework (But be Realistic)

Bring in a Local Expert

Balance Roots With Real Travel

Strike up Conversations

Manage Your Expectations

START YOUR TRIP!

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

Emerald Kaia and the Rise of Yacht-Style Cruising

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Norwegian Luna, A Ship That’s Its Own Destination

The Ultimate Vehicle for Multi-generational Travel

Beyond the Ship: The Rise of Curated Destinations

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START YOUR TRIP!

5 Spectacular Annual Flower Shows Worth Planning a Trip Around

1. Keukenhof Gardens — Netherlands

2. Chelsea Flower Show — London, UK

3. Floriade Canberra — Canberra, Australia

4. Chiang Mai Flower Festival — Chiang Mai, Thailand

5. Genzano Infiorata — Genzano, Italy

START YOUR TRIP!

Royal Caribbean: Receive Up to $50 Onboard Credit

TravelBrands: Receive a $50 FUN Credit per child

A Family Escape with Thoughtful Extras

Up to 40% Off Cruise Rates, 50% Reduced Deposits, and Up to $25 in Onboard Credit