globaltravelerusa.com | $4.99 September 2022 THE CRUISING ISSUE CRUISING THE AMAZON p. 76 DUBAI p. 62 DUBLIN p. 70 FIJI p. 72 FRENCH RIVIERA p. 66 JAMAICA p. 60 KYOTO p. 65 MIAMI & LAUDERDALEFORT p. 56 MONTRÉAL p. 50 SANTA BARBARA p. 64
Apply today at MyAlaskaCard.com Get more out of every journey with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card. Whether you’re exploring the great Alaskan wilderness or discovering a new city, you’ll enjoy exclusive benefits including: • Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ every year on your card anniversary • Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on the same reservation • 3x the miles on eligible Alaska ©2022purchasesBankofAmerica Corporation INCREDIBLE DESTINATIONS, OUTSTANDING CORDOVA, ALASKA The benefits described herein are subject to certain restrictions, limitations and exclusions. For more information about rates, fees, other costs and benefits of this credit card, or to apply, visit MyAlaskaCard com and refer to disclosures accompanying the application. This credit card program is issued and administered by Bank of America, N.A. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and are used by the issuer pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A., Inc. The Contactless Symbol and Contactless Indicator are trademarks owned by and used with permission of EMVCo, LLC
In other exciting news, Global Traveler recently debuted our redesigned app, making it easier than ever for subscribers to access the magazine. Available to download from the App Store or Google Play, the app offers subscribers a digital version of our magazine along with special features including on-demand narration and article-sharing options. Check out our social media channels and newsletters for exclusive promoCruisecodes.with us in this issue to Montréal, Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Jamaica, Dubai, Santa Barbara, Kyoto, the French Riviera, Dublin, Fiji and the Amazon! Next month, dive deeper into the fascinat ing world of aviation with our Class Act Guide
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 3 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Celebrating at Sea: Kimberly enjoying a cocktail with husband Scott on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady PHOTO: © KIMBERLY KROL INLANDER ® CIRCULATION Special Projects Manager John Wroblewski Specialist Louie Atsaves Managers Jayhawk Evans, Mark P. Ford, Teresa Jackson, Anthony “Scraps” Dimera Circulation Director Michele Shannon Circulation Manager Anna Pudzianowski Research Consultant Sharon Sterne GENERAL COUNSEL Thomas F. Goldman CONTACT US General Inquiries/Issue Requests/Reprints info@globaltravelerusa.com Subscriptions tel 818 286 3134 | gbtcs@magserv.com Public Relations kim.krol@globaltravelerusa.com Letters to the Editor letters@globaltravelerusa.com Global Traveler is published monthly by FXExpress Publications, Inc., 309 Floral Vale Blvd., Yardley, PA 19067. The U.S. subscription rate is $42 for one year, $79.95 for two years, $121.95 for three years. Postmaster: Please send changes of address to Global Traveler 309 Floral Vale Blvd., Yardley, PA 19067 EDITORIAL Editor In Chief Kimberly Krol kim.krol@globaltravelerusa.comInlander Vice President/Digital Director Katie katie.skrzek@globaltravelerusa.comSkrzek Senior Editor Janice jan.hecht@globaltravelerusa.comHecht Associate Editor/Copy Editor Patricia patty.vanikiotis@globaltravelerusa.comVanikiotis Social Media & Editorial Coordinator Mary mary.melnick@globaltravelerusa.comMelnick Associate Editor Aoife aoife.oriordan@globaltravelerusa.comO’Riordan ART Art Director Tracey tracey.cullen@globaltravelerusa.comCullen Staff Photographer Christopher P. christopher@globaltravelerusa.comOttaunick Special Events Video Editor Vance Piccin ADVISORY BOARD Chairman Michael Donahue COO Michael Kiely President Carlos Cappuccio Deputy Vice President Aviation Edward Jefferson Deputy Vice President Accommodations Stephen Doherty Deputy Director Destinations Wayne Tallman Vice President Special Events/Photography Christopher Ottaunick Secretary Mark Lane Research Director Frank LoVerme Director of Technology Bob Hancock Director of Digital Advancement Jared Torgan Vice President of Corporate Giving Jim Bolger Director of Emerging Markets & New Business Frank Wood COLUMNISTS Jack Guy Kelly Magyarics WRITERS JaroneElyseSusanAshkenaziBarnesRonBernthalDebraBokurGlickmanBeccaHensley Sharon King Hoge Eugenia Lazaris Greg McCluney Katie McElveen SherylLavaynaBrandonRichardRinaNance-NashNehdarNewtonIreneRawlingsSchultzSundaraTerryWard For complete bios visit globaltravelerusa.com Set Sail! W elcome back to our Cruising Issue! I’m happy to see this issue return again to our line-up for the first time since 2019 — and there’s no doubt cruising is back … and with a vengeance. As I’m writing this, I’m seeing news come out about more and more cruise lines loosening restrictions and welcoming even more cruisers back to staterooms and shore excursions. Have you cruised since the pandemic? And whether yes or no, are you planning to cruise soon? Tell me more about your post-pandemic cruise experience by emailing me at kim@globaltravelerusa.com. I’d love to hear from you.For me, the answers to my above questions are yes and yes! My husband Scott and I cruised earlier this year with new-to-the-game Virgin Voyages, and we had a phenomenal experience from start to finish. Read more about our time on page 21. While we don’t currently have another scheduled cruise, we’re hoping to take another river cruise, an Alaskan cruise and to get to the Mediterranean on a cruise in the future. We did our best to bring you as much as we could from the world’s cruise lines in this issue. Read more about Silversea, American Queen Voyages, Hurti gruten, Princess Cruises, AmaWaterways, Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas, Celebrity Cruises and many, many more on the following pages. If you’ve ever considered an around-the-world cruise, check out Rina Nehdar’s report on page 40, and take a look at the newest ships coming to the seas with Eugenia Lazaris on page 44.
Kimberly Krol Inlander Editor in Chief
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER
Our summer has been busy with vacations and business trips, and I am pleased to say we are making more and more face-to-face meetings. I ended the summer with a trip to San Diego to attend the Global Business Travel Association conven tion and one last summer trip to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. While in San Diego, I played golf with a fellow industry colleague at the Grand Course at Fair mont Grand Del Mar resort. Designed by Tom Fazio, the course lies in Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve just north of San Diego. I always enjoy playing this course; look for my review in a subsequent issue. I hope you enjoy our Cruising Issue. We took our first family holiday cruise, a 12-night Caribbean voyage from New York and back, on Celebrity Silhouette, and we were hooked. Since then, we have sailed on Norwe gian Gem twice on a similar holiday run, and I regret we planned to make a similar trip in 2019 but could not get our act together ... what a mistake!
AlongCruising
Francis X. Gallagher Publisher and CEO
In addition, I have taken two crossings on Queen Mary 2 (in the Queens Grill) and one European cruise on QM2. We also took a Royal Caribbean cruise out of New Orleans and docked back in time for Mardi Gras.
Lastly, I would like to congratulate the industry leaders for 2022, whom we honored at our Trazee Travel and Global Traveler reception in San Diego. Please look for the Trazee Travel digital edition, where we will recap the event and The Trazees winners. You can refer to our August issue for a complete list. Until next sailing … find the cruise that fits your needs!
4 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022
Upgrading to a suite really makes a difference, offering preferred dining, priority on and off, and special pool loungeCruisingaccess.proves a well-suited option for our readers who travel around the world. Sometimes a cruise fits the bill so you can all be together, do your own thing and not unpack more than once. I’m still trying to resched ule my river cruise on Uniworld, but I expect that will be farther in the future. I’m placing Regent Seven Seas Cruises on my agenda, as I understand the service and cuisine match that of a 5-star hotel. This comes from a general manager at one of The Peninsula properties.
® Publisher/CEOADVERTISING Francis X. Gallagher tel 215 919 8988 | fran.gallagher@globaltravelerusa.com Director of Sales Alaina Cagliostro tel 215 932 1567 alaina.cagliostro@globaltravelerusa.com Advertising Manager Haley Fogarty tel 215 932 0284 haley.fogarty@globaltravelerusa.com Advertising and Production Manager Yasser Ogando tel 267 884 1650 | yasser.ogando@globaltravelerusa.com Account Executive Western Region and Asia Maria Angeles tel 215 932 1621 maria.angeles@globaltravelerusa.com Account Executive Southern Region and the Caribbean Carrie Cox tel 215 932 0861 | carrie.cox@globaltravelerusa.com Business Development Executive Christyn Pek tel 215 932 1472 christyn.pek@globaltravelerusa.com REPRESENTATIVESAustralia Charlton D'Silva tel 61 2 9252 3476 charlton.dsilva@pubintl.com.au France Géraldine Roger tel 33 1 88 32 62 61 cell 33 7 81 22 02 36 | groger@asset-media.com India Vimal Anand tel 91 124 4932020 cell 91 98100 71000 vimal@gmnindia.com Indonesia Sarah Hutabarat tel 62 21 29704008 | sarah@mediaman.co.id Japan Yoshinori Ikeda tel 81 3 3661 6138 | yoshinori.ikeda@pacific-business.com Korea Jeff Hwang tel 82 31 702 7782 cell 82 010 6347 9117 gng@gngcom.co.kr Malaysia Ester Chai tel 60 3 7722 1968 | esther@fitzgerald.com.my Singapore Peggy Thay tel 65 83768345 | peggy.thay@pubintl.sg Slovak Republic (Eastern Europe) Zorka Sipkova tel 421 948094611 | zorka.sipkova@pubintl.eu South America and the Caribbean (excluding Peru and Colombia) Ana Torres de Navarra tel 305 205 3303 ana@colibri-media.com Spain Olga Martínez tel 34 91 320 0497 | cell 34 669 10 12 73 olga.martinez@aboutim.es Taiwan Keith Lee tel 886 2 2523 8268 leekh@ms4.hinet.net Thailand Apichaya Sophonratana tel 66 2 0514694 | apichaya.s@jpp-thailand.com Turkey Elif Mengu cell 90 532 255 83 24 elif@catalyzismedia.com United Arab Emirates (UAE) Rosy Kachouh Nawfal cell 971 55 607 8163 | rosy@i-repme.com United Kingdom Stefanie Stroh-Begg cell 44 0 7798 665 395 stefanie@mercury-publicity.com CORPORATE OFFICE 309 Floral Vale Blvd., Yardley, PA info@globaltravelerusa.com19067 Ready to Sail: Francis posing with his family before boarding a Cunard cruise PHOTO: © FRANCIS X. GALLAGHER
6 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 CONTENTS40 September 2022 on the cover COVER PHOTO: HURTIGRUTEN ‘S MS ROALD AMUNDSEN IN ANTARCTICA PHOTO: © HURTIGRUTEN globaltravelerusa.com $4.99 September 2022 THE CRUISING ISSUE CRUISING THE AMAZON p. 76 DUBAI p. 62 DUBLIN p. 70 FIJI p. 72 FRENCH RIVIERA p. 66 JAMAICA p. 60 KYOTO p. 65 MIAMI & LAUDERDALEFORT p. 56 MONTRÉAL p. 50 SANTA BARBARA p. 64 40features Epic Voyages Explore the far reaches of the globe on a cruise around the world. 44 Big Splash The newest cruise ships elevate the onboard experience. 50destinationsbusiness Destination One: Montréal Revel in Montréal’s Parisian ambience and boundless natural beauty. 56 Stateside: Miami & Fort Lauderdale New cruise terminals, ships and hotels keep the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas humming. 60 MICE: Jamaica Get in the groove for a world-class meeting in Jamaica. 62 9–5: Dubai Dubai’s business landscape expands by leaps and bounds. 64 After 5: Santa Barbara Santa Barbara beckons with California cool. AIRLINESAMERICAN©LINES,AIRDELTA©PHOTOS:
Fly with a greener alliance. We are proud to be the first global airline alliance to commit to a greener, more sustainable future. oneworld has committed to a target of 10% sustainable aviation fuel by 2030. To learn more about our sustainability initiatives, please visit oneworld.com/sustainability
8 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 62 EX PRE SS PUBLICA TIONS, INC.FX Global Traveler and Globility are registered trademarks of Global Traveler magazine and of its parent company, FXExpress Publications, Inc. Global Traveler is not affiliated with any commercial interests within the travel industry. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor can the publisher accept responsibility for errors or omissions. The magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited articles, photographs or other material. AAM member 04-0361-2. AAM audited circulation 111,517. ISSN 1551-7187 ©2022 FXExpress Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of text, photographs or illustrations without permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. in every issue 12 Mail Call 16 News 20 Reviews 25 One on One Regent Seven Seas Cruises 26 One on HurtigrutenOneGroup 27 One on AmericanOneQueen Voyages 30 Technology 31 Wine & Spirits 32 Spas 34 Chefs 36 Cruising 78 Diversity 79 Port Update 80 Ecotourism 81 Sports 82 Preview 65destinationsleisure Neighborhoods: Kyoto Kyoto hums with an atmosphere of heritage and history. 66 Friends & Family: French Riviera Discover fantastic family fun along the French Riviera. 70 Tours: Dublin Immerse in the spirit of Ireland’s charismatic capital. 72 Kicking Back: Fiji Let Fiji’s swirl of soft corals and tropical Zen soothe your soul. 76 Bucket List: Cruising the Amazon Venture deep into the remote wilds of the Amazon. 70 74 CONTENTS September 2022 DREAMSTIME.COMBELOUSOVAYULIA©PHOTO:
With five bars, four dining venues, an expansive wellness studio and an onboard cinema, AmaMagna is an exceptional ship for firsttime river cruisers and families celebrating the festive holiday season. Experience the luxury of space within one of the ship’s modern suites, measuring 355 sq ft with a full outside balcony.
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With her own unique itinerary curated by AmaWaterways’ CoFounder, the “Godfather of River Cruising” Rudi Schreiner, AmaMagna includes a rare visit to the Austrian winemaking village of Spitz, with guided hiking and biking excursions. Plus, the ship’s Magna on the Danube (Christmas) itinerary offers two exclusive experiences just for AmaWaterways’ guests: a special evening wine tasting in Spitz and a merry Oktoberfest celebration in Vilshofen, Germany. This is all in addition to a variety of included excursions each day, as well as op portunities to visit illuminated Christmas Markets such as at Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace. Sail aboard the only river cruise ship where you can warm up while pedaling on an outdoor spin bike with views of imperial Vienna, mag nificent Budapest and breathtaking landscapes from Austria’s Wachau Valley to Bavaria, Germany.
AmaMagna, Bratislava, Slovakia Festive onboard décor AmaMagna balcony suite
Sweeten Your Holidayswith an AmaMagna Suite
There’s still time to reserve your 2022 Christmas Markets river cruise on board AmaMagna and take advantage of AmaWaterways’ 20th Anniversary Savings. Save 20% on your cruise fare or receive Free Economy Airfare on select Europe and Mekong River sailings when reserved by September 30, 2022! Visit AmaWaterways.com for full details and contact your travel advisor to reserve today.
Gaze into an oversized snow globe and imagine yourself dancing among the swirling snowflakes. Take in the spicy scent of freshbaked gingerbread while singing along to joyous Christmas carols. And wrap your hands around a warm mug of hot mulled wine. When you sail on board AmaWaterways’ award-winning flagship, AmaMagna, on a Christmas Markets river cruise, these are just some of the delights you will experience – not to mention the spectacular European Christmas Markets you will encounter on shore!
TÜRKİYE Connecting more countries than any other. WE’RE ALL CONNECTED:
BEST PART OF THE JOURNEY IN STOPOVERISTANBUL
Terms and conditions apply, visit turkishairlines.com *42 countries (departure point): Algeria, Australia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Canada, China, Denmark, Estonia, Ethiopia, Finland, Ghana, Greece, Ireland, India, Iran, Italy, Ivory Coast, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Morocco, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Scotland, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Ukraine, United Kingdom, and United States of America.
Turkish Airlines invites passengers to discover unique wonders of Istanbul with accommodationstopoverservice.
Transfer passengers from 42 countries* experienced the privilege of discovering Istanbul with stopover service so far. The scope of the service will be expanded with 15 new departure countries** in 2022.
For passengers with long stopover time in Istanbul, Turkish Airlines provides 1-night stay in a 4-star hotel for Economy Class and 2 nights stay in a 5-star hotel for Business Class. Passengers will also have the option of staying at contracted hotels with special prices starting from 49 USD.
**Planned 15 countries (departure point): Kenya, Zambia, Mozambique, Indonesia, South Korea, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Nepal, Argentina, Brazil, Panama, Colombia, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain.
As the airline that connects more countries than any other, Turkish Airlines offers the opportunity of discovering world’s connection center Istanbul and its unique wonders with stopover service for the passengers with lengthy transfer times.
CONTACT GT DO YOU HAVE A STORY TO SHARE? THOUGHTS ON A RECENT GT ARTICLE? Email: letters@globaltravelerusa.com Write: Letters to the Editor 309 Floral Vale Blvd. Yardley, PA 19067 Letters must be written exclusively to Global Traveler and must include your full name, mailing address and contact phone number. Letters become the property of Global Traveler. We cannot respond to every letter. Global Traveler reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for length and clarity. The opinions expressed in Mail Call are not necessarily those of Global Traveler, and Global Traveler cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. DREAMSTIME.COMMIRC3A©VANIKIOTIS,PATRICIA©PHOTOS:Globility \glo ‘bility\ n: 1. The quality of being open to a world of cultures and experiences
In our August 2022 issue, we asked: Do you have a favorite island destination? A few readers wrote in: Katie, if you loved your trip to Tahiti and Bora Bora and are looking for another island destination for a future vacation, I definitely recommend either the Maldives or Fiji. Both places are absolutely stunning, and I have been to both in the past five years. When I went to the Maldives with my wife, we stayed at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, and didn’t want to leave. The resort provides some of the best views of the island, and there’s just so much to do each day, whether you like exploring the waters or relaxing under the sun. I hope everyone gets to visit the Maldives, as it’s one of my favorite places in the world!
you
Q&A WITH PATRICIA VANIKIOTIS, ASSOCIATE EDITOR/COPY EDITOR
Tell us. Email us
Many cruise lines this year celebrate the return of full-fleet service after weathering two years of devastating COVID-19 impacts. After enjoying my first post-pandemic overseas trip on a safe and delightful Princess Cruises Discovery Princess Mexico sailing this spring, I’m curious: Is a cruise in future travel plans? What destinations would you recommend, and what regions would sail to that haven’t yet explored? at letters@globaltravelerusa.com
JAC LYONS, VIA EMAIL
12 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 Q&A TIME
your
you
While most people think of an island vacation as somewhere tropical, one of my favorite island destinations (which I visited just this year) is Crete. The location not only offers the beautiful views and waters of CALL
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 13 a tropical island but also comes with that Mediterranean influence, from the historical sites to the food and music. Anyone looking for inspiration to travel to Europe should definitely consider Crete and some of the other gorgeous islands situated throughout the
EMAIL GLOBAL CITY GUIDEBOOK: NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
@globaltravelermag @GTmag facebook.com/globaltravelermagazine is more than just a magazine. favorites, share on social media, listen to on-demand narration today from the App Store or Google Play.
NEIL GOUVEIA, VIA EMAIL BAHA MAR ANNOUNCES FIRSTEVER THE BAHAMAS CULI NARY AND ARTS FESTIVAL
In our special July edition of the Global City Guidebook, we covered more than 50 cities across the world, including some in the United States like Nashville, Tennessee. One reader wrote in: I enjoyed reading the July 2022 edition during my flight back from Nashville. I wanted to mention the Nashville Parthenon is quite impressive and should have been mentioned in the attractions section. Great job with the magazine!
BRENDON CLAY, VIA EMAIL CALL
SIMON YORK, VIA EMAIL I have sailed with Silversea before and wanted to book another cruise ever since my last one ended! With the recent announcement of Silver Nova’s eight restaurants, I am most excited to dine at Kaiseki, the Japanese restaurant with less seating than some of the other restaurants, providing a more intimate dining experience. That being said, I also anticipate making a visit to La Dame, as I have a weakness for delicious French TINAcuisine.WHITMORE, VIA EMAIL
In the June 15 issue of eFlyer, we told readers about Silversea’s unveiling of eight new signature restaurants aboard its newest ship, Silver Nova. We asked: Do you plan to stay aboard Silversea Cruises’ Silver Nova? Which restaurant are you most excited to experience?
ANGELAMediterranean.REILLY,VIA
Two readers wrote in: I have been patiently waiting to hear news of Silversea’s newest ship and its features. Restaurants play an important role for me when deciding not only which cruise line to choose but also which itinerary within that cruise line. Silversea’s unveiling of the not one or two but eight new restaurants sealed the deal for me, and I fully plan on sailing aboard Silver Nova soon.
The new GT app is www.globaltravelerusa.com $3.50 May 2011 Globility PLUS TRAVEL WITH APP-TITUDE ABU DHABI A HALF-CENTURY OF BUILDING CASTLES IN THE SAND HANGZHOU IMMORTALIZED BY PAINTERS AND POETS ALIKE TEL AVIV FAMILY BUSINESS MEETS ROMANCE IN THE WHITE CITY ICELAND ADVENTURE AWAITS IN THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE T HE SOURCE FOR LU x URY BUSINESS TRAVELERS fresh lemony acidity with trace ine vines Torrontés Tango Art EaseHealingofbody,mindandsoul in
In the July 6 issue of eFlyer, we told readers about Baha Mar’s hosting of the first-ever The Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival. As it’s a popular cruising destination, we asked: Are you considering attending this exclusive and firstever event? One reader wrote in: I have been to The Bahamas twice before and always wanted an excuse to return, especially this year. After hearing about Baha Mar’s The Bahamas Culinary and Arts Festival, I knew I had to plan my next trip to the islands. As of last week, I secured a slot to attend this inaugural festival and am beyond excited to experience it!
WHAT’S HAPPENING ON GT BLOGS? Updated daily, our blogs offer readers an inside look at the lives and travels of the GT staff. Last month we featured blogs about everything from a getaway to Atlantic City and an afternoon in a Raleigh beer garden to enjoying fireworks. globaltravelerusa.com/blog
FREDDIE HALL, VIA EMAIL SILVERSEA UNVEILS RESTAU RANTS FOR NEW SILVER NOVA
Some of the best cruise dishes I have ever tasted came from my time spent aboard Silversea Cruises, and the eight new restaurants on Silver Nova will surely blow me away. I plan to dine at all of the eight new restaurants but am particularly eager to try The Marquee and La Dame.
GLOBALTRAVELERUSA.COM Visit our website to access past and present articles, reports, guides, hot travel links and deals and video interviews, as well as forms for subscribing to the magazine and our eFlyer newsletter.
REVEALING POLYNESIA
All-inclusive luxury voyages in the South Seas delivering an artfully authentic experience. For more information call 844-820-2679 or visit TAHITIpgcruises.com|FRENCHPOLYNESIA | SOUTH PACIFIC | FIJI
CRUISESEMERALD©PONANT,©PHOTOS:
“In response to exceptional demand, we have added three new fly-cruise voyages aboard Silver Cloud for 2024, enhancing our industry-leading Antarctica of fering and strengthening our destination leadership,” said Roberto Martinoli, president and CEO, Silversea. “We offer guests the luxury of choice, with the most diverse offering in ultra-luxury Antarctica cruising. Our pioneering Antarctica Bridge option is tremendously popular with time-conscious travellers who prefer to experience the White Continent without crossing the DrakeOnPassage.”Silversea’s Antarctica Bridge voyages, guests enjoy an array of benefits, including private executive transfers, international round-trip flights, one night pre-cruise hotel stay and one post-cruise hotel night stay in Santiago. These voyages also come with incountry flights to Punta Arenas, one pre-cruise and one post-cruise hotel night in Punta Arenas and a private business-class round-trip flight between Punta Arenas and King George Island. silversea.com
On July 13 guests aboard PONANT’s Le Commandant Charcot reached the geographic North Pole, marking the first time ever a luxury passenger vessel brought travelers to this otherworldly and northernmost point on Earth. The achievement was made possible thanks to PONANT experts in expeditions to the polar regions.
Emerald Cruises recently unveiled its new collection of 2023 and 2024 ocean cruises aboard Emerald Sakara and Emerald Azzurra luxury yachts, both slated to debut in 2023. The new addi tions include trans-Atlantic voyages from Lisbon to Bridgetown, Barbados; Lisbon to St. John, Antigua; and San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.Emerald Cruises also adds 15 new countries in the Caribbean and Central America. Ranging from eight- to 18-day trips, Emerald Cruises will sail to the Grenadines, Virgin Islands and West Indies. Other destinations include Panamá, Colombia, Costa Rica and even the remote Isla Tortuga. Guests can also choose from Emerald Cruises’ new ports of call across the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. The inaugural season of Emerald Azzurra in 2023 features destinations like the bays of Sardinia, the Balearics and Casablanca. The ship also stops at Gibraltar and the Canary Islands. emeraldcruises.com
EYOS Superyacht Returns to Arctic Summer 2023
EYOS Expeditions announced the relaunch of its itiner aries in the Arctic aboard the recently designed Hanse Explorer. Back by popular demand, the journey features iceberg-dotted fjords; hikes on glaciers; and searches for white whales, polar bears and walruses.
Emerald Cruises Adds Voyages to 2023/2024 Itineraries
On EYOS’ seven-night journey through Arctic Svalbard aboard Hanse Explorer, guests spend five days cruising around Svalbard, journeying through the narrow Hinlopen Strait, visiting a Dutch whaling station and taking a Zodiac through Monaco Glacier. eyos-expeditions.com
Silversea Announces Additional Fly-Cruise Voyages for 2023/2024
With increasing demand for luxury cruise trips, Silversea responds by enhancing its industry-leading, all-inclusive polar offering with the addition of three new Antarc tica Bridge voyages for the 2023/2024 season. The fly-cruise program provides guests with the fastest and most direct route to Antarctica by flying over the Drake Passage in business-class comfort.
Hanse Explorer underwent a multimillion-dollar rede sign, now featuring bright and modern interiors drawing on nautical influences. The renovated ship also boasts oversized windows and sliding-glass doors to optimize views of the water. Guests enjoy amenities such as a saltwater Jacuzzi, sauna and cocktail area complete with Bose sound systems.
PONANT Guests Reach Geographic North Pole
ponant.com
“It is with great humility and emotion that we have reached this latitude, each of us aware of the exceptional character of this moment we have been living,” said Captain Patrick Marchesseau. The achievement follows closely upon Le Commandant Charcot’s first voyage to the North Pole in September 2021. This voyage marked the first time a French vessel reached this latitude.
16 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 NEWS, DEALS AND REWARDS
Regent Seven Seas Elevates Sette Mari Menu with New Recipes
Holland America Offers Best Deal of the Year on 2023 Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises unveiled highlights of a refined menu currently in the works to appear in one of the cruise line’s most popular restaurants, Sette Mari. Inspired by Italian cuisine, the new offerings will be fully revealed during Seven Seas Grandeur’s inaugural season in November 2023. After its release, the cruise line will integrate the menu across Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ soon-to-be six-ship fleet.
“I was already excited to launch Seven Seas Grandeur at the end of 2023, but now knowing what we have in store with Sette Mari’s refined recipes, the anticipation to sail on board will be even greater,” said Jason Montague, president and CEO, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “An Unrivaled Experi ence calls for exquisite cuisines, and I could not be prouder of our incredible team and the unrivaled culinary experi ences they create and deliver for our guests with every meal, on every sailing.”
atlasoceanvoyages.com
hollandamerica.com
rssc.com
The new offering, available on Upper Mississippi River itineraries of American Queen American Duchess and American Countess, sails between St. Louis (Alton) and Minneapolis (Red Wing), embarking Sept. 10, 11, 24, 26 and Oct. 16, 2022. Additional ports include Hanni bal, Missouri; Bettendork, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Burlington, Iowa. aqvoyages.com
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 17
CRUISESSEASSEVENREGENT©DUBUQUE,TRAVEL©VOYAGES,QUEENAMERICAN©PHOTOS:
Guests who book a trip with Atlas Ocean Voyages by Sept. 30 can receive up to $5,000 in bonus savings per stateroom or $2,500 per person. The savings are based on double oc cupancy for new bookings. Additionally, guests booking two or more back-to-back voyages can save up to 15 percent on each voyage. All former, active, reserve and retired U.S. veterans also receive an additional 20 percent in savings.
Want more news on the go? Sign up for GT ’s eFlyer newsletter. Global Traveler’s weekly newsletter keeps you up to date, bringing news, deals and reviews right to your inbox every Wednesday. Sign up at globaltravelerusa.com/newsletter.
Embark on The Field of Dreams Experi ence with American Queen American Queen Voyages debuts The Field of Dreams Experience on its Upper Mississippi River sailings for movie enthusiasts and base ball fans alike. Inspired by the 1989 film starring Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones and Ray Liotta, the experience is available on eight- and nine-day voyages.
Bonus Savings with Atlas Ocean Voyages
New or refined dishes on the new menu include brus chetta al pomodoro, zucchine alla poverella, Chef Nino ciop pino, focaccia con pomodorini and cozze gratinate al forno.
Holland America Line invites guests to plan ahead and secure future cruise reservations for 2023 now with the new Book Early & Save offer. Running through Sept. 30, guests booking a Holiday 2022 cruise or a 2023 cruise departure enjoy onboard credit and included crew appreciation.Theofferalso includes 50 percent reduced deposits plus shore excursions, beverages, WiFi and specialty dining. For a seven-day cruise, guests will see a booking value of more than $900 per person when booking this special offer.
“A process such as this usually takes around 12 months to perfect,” explained Bernhard Klotz, vice president food & beverage, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “The next steps will be to confirm all the new ingredients and establish their supply, finalize the menu and recipes and then train our incredible chefs across the fleet.”
*Skip the counter available at select locations. Taxes and fees excluded. Additional terms apply. © 2022 Hertz System, Inc. All rights reserved. CS 622108 Charge up and go. This is your moment. Get on the road faster. Discover something new. Rent right at your fingertips. hertz.com Hertz. Let’s Go! Experience a greener way to travel in a fuel-free EV. Choose from the largest EV rental fleet in North America. You know that moment – the one where you embrace the journey. Maybe it’s closing your car door after a full day of business travel or settling into your ride as you hit the open road. Skip the counter and go straight to your car while earning points toward free rental days and upgrades as a Hertz Gold Plus Rewards® member.* hertz.com/join Get some travel inspiration and hit the road. hertz.com/blog Manage reservations, rentals, account information and more on the Hertz app.
PRINCESS CRUISES princess.com
Disembarkation could not have been smoother, certainly aided by the fact we were able to tie up right alongside the cruise terminal. All but our carry-ons were packed, tagged and left outside our doors to be whisked away the night before we arrived in L.A., and the next morning color-coded groups of guests dis embarked at staggered times and reunited with their bags ashore.
PRINCESS CRUISES DISCOVERY PRINCESS
Crowds of passengers lined the sidewalk outside Los Angeles World Cruise Center. We left our pre-tagged suitcases with porters outside and made our way to check in and receive our medallions. It wasn’t long before we were ready to board, and normally we would simply walk through the terminal onto the ship, but the Port assigned the ship to a pier almost a mile away from the cruise center. There must have been some mad scrambling behind the scenes, but Princess personnel managed to transport more than 2,000 passengers and all their baggage to the ship with smiles on their faces. The ship was delayed only an hour or so in pulling away from the dock. Kudos to Princess for pulling off what must have been a logistical nightmare!
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GUEST QUARTERS: Our balcony stateroom was conveniently located just off the forward elevator lobby on the port side of the Riviera Deck (Deck 14). After a long day, I was happy for the short walk from the elevator to my door, and with my medallion tucked in purse or pocket or hanging around my neck, I never fumbled for a key, as the door unlocked automatically.
Outfittedplentiful.with a just-right mattress and quality linens and duvet, the queen bed was flanked by bedside tables offering drawer space, reading lamps, power outlets and convenient switches for overhead lights. The mirrored vanity/desk boasted more drawers, a comfortable chair and excellent lighting, perfect for working or primping for a night out. A large flat-screen TV hung on the wall opposite the bed, and a small refrigerator housed in a wooden cabinet sat in a corner next to the floor-to-ceiling window and door leading to our balcony. Its clear glass railing gave us unobstructed views of the ocean and the ports we visited.
Once inside, we found a calm haven decorated in neutral tones with soft blue accents. An impressive amount of storage space resided within the well-designed 180-square-foot space, with the bathroom and wardrobe space immediately to the left of the door. The open wardrobe featured at least four feet of rod space, two bathrobes and lots of wooden hangers. An adjoining narrow closet offered several shelves and a small electronic safe (too small for my laptop). I would have been willing to give up a little of that space for a larger shower stall in the bathroom, but the towels were soft and thick, the lighting good and the hot water
My husband and I were booked on a seven-day voyage to the Mexican Riviera on the inaugural cruise of Princess Cruises’ newest ship, Discovery Princess. As part of Princess’ MedallionClass experience, we got “OceanReady” by downloading the Medallion app and sharing with Princess our passport information, profile pictures, dining and activity preferences, health information and more. All of that was linked to a quarter-sized wearable disk we would pick up at check-in to expedite and simplify the embarkation process … as well as the entire cruise experience.
SERVICES/AMENITIES: Discovery Princess boasts spacious, beautifully appointed public spaces including several lounges with live music in the evenings; the Princess Theater, where we took in Broadway-style musical shows and featured performers; a casino; luxury shops; a huge fitness center with state-of-the-art equip ment; the soothing Lotus Spa; and on-deck sports courts and a huge screen for movies under the stars. Families will appreciate the programs and dedicated space for kids 3 to 17, too. We especially enjoyed the adults-only The Sanctuary and The Enclave at Lotus Spa. Guests can pay for a full-day pass to indulge in the thermal suite and hydrotherapy pool at The Enclave, and we spent hours circulating between various steam chambers, the sauna, invigorating showers and heated stone loungers. The Sanctuary, located at the bow on the top two decks, offered uncrowded tranquility with private cabanas, chaise longues, a pool and hot tubs. Dedicated stewards cater to every need from signature drinks and light meals to chilled face towels and cozy blankets.Wesampled meals from two of the three main dining rooms, 24-hour room service (for a few breakfasts) and the buffet-style World Fresh Marketplace — all included in the cruise fare and boasting efficient, friendly service and eclectic menus. Our dinners at three of the ship’s specialty dining venues — Bistro Sur La Mer, The Crown Grill and Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria — were each memorable affairs with beautifully plated, delectable dishes; outstanding service; and wonderful wine pairings. We also enjoyed the more casual ambience at The Salty Dog Gastropub with some fine brews and hearty comfort food. BY Patricia Vanikiotis
TOP AWAYS:TAKE A host of dining options, from specialty restaurants to pizza and burgers poolside, means every palate can be Thesatisfied.MedallionClass technol ogy simplifies all transac tions and puts information on daily activities, deck plans and services at one’s fingertips. It also makes it easy to connect with other members of your party on board, order food and drinks to be delivered wherever you are on the ship, pay for pur chases on board or ashore at select retailers, play casino games or make spa and dining reservations. This brand-new ship wowed at every turn, from the threestory Piazza at the center of the ship to cozy bars and warm, impeccable service.
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20 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 PORTS OF CALL: Los Angeles, California; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Mazatlán, Mexico; Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
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GUEST QUARTERS: Our 12th-floor Sea Terrace cabin mea sured 225–265 square feet. It was just two of us, but cabins are designed to be reconfigured to accommodate two to four guests. We requested the bed be converted into the couch set-up one day so we could see it, and it is truly a transformation that brings more space.Upon entering the cabin, the closet area, with both hanging space and drawers, was to the right and the bathroom to the left. The bathroom, while not large, was functional, and amenities in the shower were wall-mounted larger-sized bottles. Farther into the cabin was the bed/couch space, directly across from a wallmounted TV. The TV and other room controls can be operated via an in-room tablet-like device. One side of the bed housed a nightstand, and there was also a desk area and a chair in the corner, all leading to terrace doors. The highlight of our room was the terrace with its signature red hammock.
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SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 21 VOYAGESVIRGIN©PHOTO: PORTS OF CALL: Miami, Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; Bimini, Bahamas; Miami, Florida
Poised to debut as the pandemic hit in 2020, Virgin Voyages was forced to delay its grand entrance into cruising, finally setting sail in fall 2021. With a goal of disrupting the traditional model of cruising, my husband and I planned to set sail on a four-day Miami-to-Bahamas jaunt to check out the new cruise line and its model for ourselves. One major difference between Virgin Voyages and other cruise lines, the Branson brand only allows cruisers 18 years old and older. Our discovery of the Virgin Voyages experience began at the brand-new, dedicated Terminal V at PortMiami. After dropping our bags with a porter, we were directed to another building for mandatory COVID tests. Post-test, we began the check-in process inside the light-filled, clean terminal. We checked in, had our passports and vaccination documents reviewed and received our Sailor bands, which wrapped around our wrists, fastened with a cheeky anchor bauble and boasting a gray fob that would be our touch-and-go portal for everything we’d do aboard. We waited in a lounge area until we received our negative COVID test results via email and text. From there, it was through security and on to Scarlet Lady Disembarkation at the end of our sailing was even simpler. We took our time in the morning, enjoying brunch in The Wake before collecting our bags, walking off the boat with just a few other travelers, clearing U.S. customs in literally just seconds. Before we knew it, we were in our Uber to our hotel.
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A world of entertainment and activities awaits Sailors. Some of those we took in include the arcade; the casino; and the pro ductions of “Never Sleep Alone,” a playful, interactive, late-night cabaret, and “Duel Reality,” an acrobatic retelling of Romeo and Juliet. Bring your red clothing for Scarlet Night, when the entire ship transforms into various performances, stories and activities. More than 20 eateries are on offer, with dining on demand and restaurants that require a reservation (at no extra charge). Forget traditional buffets; the closest dining experience to those would be The Galley, more of an upscale dining hall, allowing diners to order or grab-and-go from a large assortment of eater ies — think sandwiches, sushi, burgers, salads, tacos, ramen and sweets. We enjoyed dinner at The Wake, serving steak and seafood (the clam chowder is a must!); Pink Agave, delivering elevated Mexican cuisine; Extra Virgin, with homemade pasta and Italian delicacies; and Gunbae, a really lively and fun Korean BBQ experience. For lunch and some treats, we liked The Dock, The Pizza Place and Lick Me Till … Ice Cream. All alcoholic beverages were reasonably priced.
REVIEWED BY Kimberly Krol Inlander LADY
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Another focus of Virgin Voyages is wellness. The itineraries offer a whole schedule of workout classes; I’m not sure any other spin class will top the view I had during my class on Scarlet Lady! There was also a walking track at the top of the ship which we utilized daily. And, of course, we had to sample the spa. We left port during our couple’s massage, and the gentle movement made the treatment all the more relaxing.
Pro tip: Don’t forget your water bottles! You won’t find plastic water bottles on board Virgin Voyages, so Sailors should remember to bring their own reusable ones from home. Filling stations are available, and cabin attendants will refresh the water carafes in the room at the touch of a Whilebutton.it could easily skew to the cheesy, Virgin Voyages manages to pull off cutesy (like calling cruise-goers Sailors) in a cheeky, adultsonly Oncemanner.youconfirm your booking, download the Virgin Voyages app, your lifeline for all things from booking Shore Things (excursions) to making dinner reservations. WiFi is complimentary aboard Scarlet Lady VIRGIN VOYAGES virginvoyages.com
SERVICES/AMENITIES: We were determined to make the most of our time and try all we could — a lofty goal considering the abundant offerings on Scarlet Lady. Our original itinerary was Nassau, Bimini and a day at sea before disembarkation, but weather prevented us from docking in Bimini on Day Two. Seamlessly, the cruise rearranged our schedule, so Day Two was at sea and Day Three in Bimini. We opted for a Shore Thing (the name for excursions) in Nassau. We were also originally scheduled for an outing in Bimini, but weather, again, had other plans and it was canceled. However, after spending a beautiful day at Virgin Voyages’ private beach club in Bimini, we couldn’t have been happier about the schedule change.
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ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Not wanting to return home just yet, my husband and I opted for one more day by the beach, so we chose to overnight at The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauder dale for one night after disembarking from a cruise in Miami. We quickly felt at home at the hotel for many reasons, but among them was the view of cruise ships in the ocean from our Afterpatio.an easy Uber from ship to the hotel, check-in was equally simple. And it offered a delightful surprise — we’d been upgraded to a suite!
1 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 tel 954 465 ritzcarlton.com2300
SERVICES/AMENITIES: Our first step after stopping in our room and rearranging some of our luggage? The beach, of course! Directly across the street from the Atlantic, The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale offers guests beach loungers, umbrellas, towels and bottled water. An attendant set us up, and we spent some time reading, enjoying a light lunch from one of the many sur rounding eateries and soaking up some of our last sun rays. Before heading out for the night, we stopped at on-site Burlock Coast. Expecting we’d want a bigger dinner later, we ordered herb foccacia and Old Bay baby shrimp appetizers. They were so generous, we were full for the rest of the evening. Burlock Coast also serves breakfast, brunch and lunch. The Poolside Café serves cocktails and light bites. While our one-night stay didn’t allow us time to visit, the hotel boasts the full-service The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Fort Lauderdale, including a hair and nail salon. More than 24,000 square feet of event space can host a range of functions. I’d be remiss not to mention the hotel’s location, directly on Fort Lauderdale’s main drag and across from the beach — guests have easy access to all the Florida city offers.
GUEST QUARTERS: Our fifth-floor one-bedroom Oceanfront Suite, at about 600 square feet, opened into a small vestibule with a half-bath immediately to the left and a small wet bar area just ahead, leading into the living area with a couch (can convert to a sleeper sofa), coffee table, corner chair and table, and a TV mounted over a console. My husband departed early the next morning; I stayed on a bit longer as I was heading to a conven tion. I enjoyed a room-service breakfast that morning in the living area, where I was able to log into Netflix on the TV and spread out to work while eating. I was surprised at the large size of the bedroom, especially considering the spacious living quarters. Another TV was mounted above a dresser. An extremely comfortable king-sized bed sat across, flanked by two nightstands. A large closet sat next to the bathroom entrance, where marble-clad dual sinks, a water closet, an ample shower and a deep soaking tub also awaited. Both rooms boasted floor-to-ceiling windows and doors leading to our generous patio overlooking the pool and ocean.
THE RITZ-CARLTON, FORT LAUDERDALE
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Sip on the tasty and complimentary rum punch at Burlock Coast (guests will find a card in their room key holder for one per day per guest) Also included were two complimen tary tickets for Fort Lauderdale’s picturesque water taxi. Tickets are available at the concierge, who also assisted us with mapping our route and finding the station. While we didn’t have time to relax poolside, our guestroom overlooked the pool, where many guests, including families, relaxed, swam and enjoyed the beach view.
GUEST QUARTERS: My room was on the top floor, tucked away in a corner with a view of the courtyard and an outdoor spiral staircase leading up to the rooftop. I was shocked at how hip and unique the room was, taking vintage and flipping it to modern. The bohemian dream room not only had a love seat overlooking the ocean but a spectacular bathroom with a large peek-a-boo shower that added a spontaneous aroma. The ceilings were purposely left unfinished, giving it an edgier vibe with complementing dark wood accents. The room came to life with orange and teal accents and urban photography. The suite offered all the essentials needed for an extended stay, such as a mini fridge, microwave, safe and large closet. I could easily have spent more than three nights here. The design tactics of this room gave it a personality of its own, one that went far beyond basic. The only thing missing was a vintage soaking tub!
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Overall, my experience at The Balfour Hotel was pleasant. A great location within a few blocks of the most famous restaurants in Miami Beach such as Estiatorio Milos, Papi Steakhouse, Planta, Carbone and Forte dei Marmi, and minutes from South Pointe Park and Pier
REVIEWED BY Christyn Pek
SERVICES/AMENITIES: The services and amenities were average, but one fun thing was the availability of complimen tary guest bicycles — perfect for exploring the city. The pool, however, was not big enough to swim in. Luckily, the beach across the street had chairs readily available for guests to enjoy after a dip in the ocean. The hotel had a great bar and Latin restaurant area, although it did not offer a proper gym. The staff was kind and kept up with cleanliness, although I had to remind them of some things, such as extra towels. The staff quickly accommodated any requests and was always professional and friendly.
Located on the south side of Ocean Drive, The Balfour Hotel offers a breath of fresh air within flamboyant Miami Beach. The lobby captures the eye with modern Art Deco architecture taking boho chic to the next level, with a fully equipped bar adjacent to the front desk, where friendly staff awaits to greet and accommodate a guest’s every need. Valet was on-premise to ensure my car was in good hands with 24-hour surveillance. A helping hand led me to my room through a courtyard that overlooked an exotic mini plunge pool, tempting me to take a refreshing splash.
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The Balfour fits my personal ity and suits the Gen Z and millennial age frame, as it is hip and unique. If I find myself back in South Beach, I would stay at The Balfour again.
THE BALFOUR HOTEL MIAMI BEACH 350 Ocean Drive Miami Beach, Florida 33139 tel 305 538 thebalfourmiamibeach.com1055
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ARRIVAL/CHECK-IN: Whether you’re driving into San Diego from Los Angeles or arriving from San Diego Interna tional Airport, your arrival to Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is quite impressive. Driving in, you are greeted by the two stunning towers hugging San Diego Bay. I arrived in the after noon and was greeted with a swift check-in process. World of Hyatt loyalty program members have a dedicated check-in line that allows for shorter lines should you happen to arrive at peak hours. Your key grants you access to your floor, and you easily make your way to your sanctuary while in beautiful San Diego.
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GUEST QUARTERS: Staying at this property will afford you spacious accommodations and, very likely, stunning views of the Pacific. I had a corner room in the north tower and never wanted to leave. My work space faced Coronado and a lounge area had a bird’s-eye view of The Embarcadero, where you’ll find the USS Midway Museum.
Whether you visit for work or leisure, you will never have a dull night out! DIEGO Place San Diego, CA 92101 tel 619 232 1234 hyatt.com
SERVICES/AMENITIES: While staying here, rest assured you’ll have everything you need at your disposal. If you need a quick bite, stop by Market One. Formal dining is certainly also available on property; you can even enjoy a drink with a view at Top of the Hyatt. On the fitness end, if you feel like a dip, you can enjoy the on-site pool. You will also find a space to get your workout in. The property is pet-friendly, so have a look at those fees if you want to travel with your furry friend. For those driving in your electric vehicle, you can even charge your car here! BY Maria Angeles
Make time to check out the city’s Gaslamp District. Take a walk across the street to Seaport Village and The Embar cadero; you might find yourself at Puesto at The Headquarters for authentic Mexican cooking. Explore Coronado and perhaps make your way out to Balboa Park.
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THE WhatBUSINESSisyourmost recent project, and what was the inspiration behind it? Before my current role, I served as senior vice president of Investor Relations, Corporate Communications and ESG for Regent’s parent company, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. I’m incredibly proud of what my team and I achieved, building the department from the ground up; shaping the company’s environmental, social and governance initiatives; and
Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Regent Seven Seas Cruises
AS A TRAVELER
Andrea DeMarco
What’s the biggest business risk you’ve ever taken? With a background in finance, I began my career in revenue management; however, I realized I’d need to take risks and seek roles where I had little experience if I wanted to achieve my goals. I have taken on sales, marketing and public relations roles … a world away from the number-crunching of my early days. Had I not made those leaps of faith, I would not be in the position I am today. Who is someone you admire professionally in the travel industry? I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Frank Del Rio, president and CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, for many years. He has been an inspirational leader and mentor from whom I have learned invaluable lessons.
ONE ON ONE your current industry? I have a passion for wellness, so I would be working within the health and fitness industry. What is your favorite book, movie or television show? I love watching documentaries about wonderful places I’ve yet to visit. Travel has the power to broaden your horizons and inspire; I cannot get enough, in whatever form.
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A LITTLE BIT MORE What actor or actress would play you in a movie of your life? I admire Eva Longoria for her success on the screen and in business, as well as her philanthropy, so I would be thrilled if she agreed to play me. What would you be doing professionally if you weren’t in
Title: Chief sales and marketing officer Company, city: Regent Seven Seas Cruises; Miami, Florida First job: Controller of revenue Where to next: Next month I’ll be with the Asia Pacific team in Sydney, Australia. I hope to fit in a family cruise at some point.
Share a comical travel experience: I have a young family, and I recently took them to Walt Disney World for a few days. The whole trip was filled with smiles and laughter. What is your preferred method of travel — planes, trains, automobiles, cruise ships — and why? I’m biased, but it must be cruise ships. I first sailed in the 2000s and was so hooked, I changed careers to join the industry. I love the exceptional value cruise ships offer and the ability to unpack once while visiting multiple incredible destinations. Waking up in a new port each morning for another immersive experience, coming home to the comfort of the ship each evening is truly special.
What has been the best example of customer service you’ve experienced during your travels? Recently sailing with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, I asked for mango at breakfast, but none was available. The next morning the maître d’ brought a platter of freshly cut mango to my table and explained they went to the local market that morning especially for me. That blew me away. The crew are truly exceptional and want nothing more than to ensure all our guests completely relax and enjoy their well-deserved vacation.
Andrea DeMarco
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being the face and voice of the organization to Wall Street. The Institutional Investor All-America Executive Team ranked my team No. 1 in Leisure, and I’m honored to be No. 1 Investor Relations Officer in the Leisure Sector for three consecutive years. What is your favorite aspect of the job? We’re here to deliver an unrivaled experience for our guests. We work hard to keep our standards impeccably high, from the first phone call to the moment they disembark. It’s satisfying to receive positive feedback from guests, and it makes the job worth it. It always surprises me how frequently we surpass their expectations!
Tell us about a travel nightmare: We all lived a travel nightmare in 2020; the pandemic was a difficult time for everyone but especially the travel industry. As bad as it was, the relaunch of Seven Seas Splendor in September 2021 was one of my proudest and most emotional experiences. Seeing the guests’ faces and our crew’s reaction to their return on board was amazing. All five of our luxury ships are back on the water, with another coming in November 2023, so there’s much to be thankful for now and to get excited about for the future!
Daniel Skjeldam Title: CEO Company, city: Hurtigruten Group; Oslo, Norway, and London, England First job: I was a check-in and gate agent at Bergen Airport; it was an amazing job, and I absolutely loved it.
A LITTLE BIT MORE What actor or actress would play you in a movie of your life? If he were still alive, Steve McQueen. After all this time, his style is still super cool. What would you be doing professionally if you weren’t in your current industry? So many different possible answers to this question,
Toward the end of the flight, he started to move and the flight attendant approached me to share a funny story — she was talking to the other flight attendants about the weird guy in Seat 4D who had a baby doll strapped to his chest!
Tell us about a travel nightmare: I have quite the high leniency when it comes to travel. However, I had the interesting experience of being detained by paramilitaries in Sotk valley, at that time a no-man’s land between Armenia, Nagorno Karabakh and Azerbaijan. Share a comical travel experience: In the early part of the pandemic, I flew [from] New York City to Boston with my month-old son. He was strapped to my chest in a baby wrap, sleeping quite well, as he didn’t move or make a sound.
Daniel Skjeldam
Where to next: In the next few weeks I head out on a Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise to Greenland.
26 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 ONE ON ONE
What is your preferred method of travel — planes, trains, automobiles, cruise ships — and why? Of course, expedition cruise ships are up there, but my favorite thing is to travel like locals, on local trains, ships, buses and so on. I’ve traveled to almost 100 countries, including Iran, North Korea and Myanmar, and traveling like the locals always gives the best experiences. What has been the best example of customer service you’ve experienced during your travels? When it comes to high-end travel, I expect a high standard, and I’m often disappointed, especially in our post-pandemic world. On a third-class train voyage in India, however, it was a fantastic experience watching both the crew and fellow passengers go out of their way to make our trip good. but something like a photographer on assignment with National Geographic or a vintage car mechanic. What is your favorite book, movie or television show? There are many great TV shows, but one of my current favorites is Succession on HBO. I’ve been reading Paul Theroux’s 1975 The Great Railway Bazaar and his 2009 Ghost Train to the Eastern Star, and it’s fascinating to read about the differences in travel from 1975 to 2009. What historical figure, dead or alive, would you love to have dinner with? Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen, who led the first team to successfully reach the South Pole in 1911. I’d love to hear about him managing his expedition teams, and the dinner would take place on board his old expedition ship, Fram, now on display at The Fram Museum in Oslo.
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AS A TRAVELER
THE WhatBUSINESSisyourmost recent project, and what was the inspiration behind it? Hurtigruten Norway just launched the legendary product Svalbard Express, offering a very high-end cruising experience. It marks the return of one of Norway’s iconic sailing routes and will transport both cruisers and cargo beginning in June 2023. What is your favorite aspect of the job? Without question, the super-exciting people I meet and the great places I’ve been able to visit, including Greenland, Antarctica and the Galápagos. What’s the biggest business risk you’ve ever taken? Actually, it’s taking on the CEO position at Hurtigruten in 2012. The company had been loss-making for 20 years prior, and the role was part of a massive turnaround for the company. We shined the diamond hiding under all the dust. Who is someone you admire professionally in the travel industry? From history, it’s our founder, Richard With, a Norwegian ship captain, businessman and politician. And I admire what Torstein Hagen created with Viking, which has seen incredible growth. However, I’d still choose a Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise many times over!
CEO, Hurtigruten Group
What’s the biggest business risk you’ve ever taken? I’m a risk-taker by nature. I view it as either high-risk or high-reward. As a history major who pivoted to marketing, I’m not a traditional marketer, either. After more than a decade with Carnival, I left for a new opportunity with an unknown brand. It ended up as high-reward.
What would you be doing professionally if you weren’t in your current industry? My dream job growing up was to be a linguist for the United Nations; I’ve always held a deep appreciation for the power of words. What is your favorite book, movie or television show? My favorite movie is Forrest Gump. I’m a history buff, so I love how it weaves in the world perspective in an endearing way. I love historical fiction; my favorite book is The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah, who creates strong female protagonists. What historical figure, dead or alive, would you love to have dinner with? Eleanor Roosevelt was ahead of her time and never afraid to push boundaries to make an impact. One of my favorite quotes is, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 27 ONE ON ONE
What is your favorite aspect of the job? I’ve always loved marketing, but I love that this position allows me to flex new and different muscles across multiple functions.
THE NameBASICS : Isis Ruiz Title: Chief commercial officer Company, city: American Queen Voyages; Fort Lauderdale, Florida First job: My first job in travel was an entry-level marketing assistant for Carnival Cruise Line. It inspired me to return to school to study marketing. In high school, I worked as a tour guide, so hospitality was in my blood! Where to next: I’m headed to Hawai‘i with my family; our group will range in age from 5 (my youngest) to 83 (my parent).
Who is someone you admire professionally in the travel industry? In the cruise industry, Vicki Freed and Joanne Schimelman, who gave me my first job. I remember her saying, “This isn’t rocket science, we can figure it out.” It’s stuck with me my whole career. I also pay attention to women leaders; I don’t know her personally, but I admire the way Kristen Cavallo at The Martin Agency is changing the conversation.
THE WhatBUSINESSisyourmost recent project, and what was the inspiration behind it? I joined American Queen Voyages in April, so it was important to me to learn about our product and the communities impacted by our cruises. We’ve since launched a free air complement; we know flying can be tricky, so we looked to remove an obstacle for our travelers. We’re adding a new itinerary, Grand Ohio & Upper Mississippi Rivers, after the success of our Mighty Mississippi itinerary. The new voyage is the longest river cruise itinerary in the United States and a direct response to customer feedback.
A LITTLE BIT MORE What actor or actress would play you in a movie of your life? I’d pick Eva Longoria. I love her pro-Latina, prowomen message. She recently spoke to an organization I’m part of, and she was empowering.
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AS A TRAVELER Tell us about a travel nightmare: I’ve been lucky. In the end, it all works out. I think it’s the mindset you enter the travel experience with. Share a comical travel experience: As frequent travelers know, it’s carry-on luggage only! However, I was traveling to a colder climate and struggling to fit bulkier clothing in my carry-on; my mom was in town to help and suggested a bigger bag. I checked my itinerary and I was traveling alone, so, against my better judgment, I went with checked luggage. Of course my schedule changed, and I ended up traveling with the CEO. It only took five minutes for someone to mention my bag. What is your preferred method of travel — planes, trains, automobiles, cruise ships — and why? Cruise ships, because there’s a peace and tranquility that comes with being on water. What has been the best example of customer service you’ve experienced during your travels? Everyone knows many industries are short-staffed; we are not immune. Recently, on board, an employee approached those in management, myself included, during a meal to share some issues employees were having. I first thanked her for her courage and candor, as that is not easy. Our executive vice president of Vessel Operations promised to address it that day, before departing the ship, and it was handled immediately. It’s important to take the same approach to employees as we do our guests.
Isis Ruiz Chief Commercial Officer, American Queen Voyages
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More space means more luxury to love — and more incredible outdoor escapes to discover. That includes a terraced Sunset Bar designed by Nate Berkus, with an international beach club ambience and some of the best views on board. The reimagined Rooftop Garden now extends over the water’s edge with two cantilevered float pools soaring above the sea. And
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The Retreat® Sundeck, part of Celebrity’s ultimate luxury experience, now offers two levels of outdoor bliss.
This year, celebrate the holidays on the most stunning new ship in the Caribbean. Step aboard the revolutionary Celebrity BeyondSM and leave the holiday hassle in your wake. While you explore some of the Caribbean’s best tropical destinations in total luxury, Celebrity will take care of every festive detail on board. Whether you’re sailing over Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah or New Year’s Eve, there’s no better way to relax and enjoy everything you love about the holiday season — without any of the stress.
Celebrity BeyondSM is the perfect place to reconnect with your family — and the world — on a holiday vacation like no other. It’s the third ship in Celebrity’s revolutionary Edge® Series, and it takes Celebrity’s innovative, outward-facing design further than ever, creating an even closer connection between you, the sea and every exciting place on the horizon.
SUN-SOAKED HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS
Everyone loves a white Christmas, but you know what’s even better? A white-sand Christmas. Trade the chill of late fall and early winter for the yearround tropical warmth of the Caribbean on Celebrity Beyond’s perfectly designed holiday itineraries, sailing round trip from Fort Lauderdale. ‘Tis the season for turquoise waters, palm-lined beaches and colorful coral reefs, and Celebrity has the Caribbean covered from east to west, visiting some of the region’s most popular destinations. Get away for Thanksgiving on a seven-night Bahamas, Mexico and Grand Cayman Cruise, departing Nov. 20. Celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah on an eight-night Eastern Caribbean Holiday Cruise leaving Dec. 18 that whisks you to Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Tortola and Nassau. Start the New Year on a high note on an eight-night Western Caribbean Holiday Cruise, setting sail Dec. 26 for destinations like Grand Cayman, Roatan and Cozumel. Whichever sailing you choose, you’ll have an array of excursions to choose from in every port of call, from intimate Small Group Discoveries that take you off the beaten path to exclusive and completely customizable Private Journeys. If you book your holiday vacation now, you can take advantage of incredible limited-time offers. So don’t wait. Call 1 800 CELEBRITY, contact your travel advisor or visit celebrity.com today
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In keeping with Celebrity’s passion for creating the best fine-dining experience at sea, Celebrity Beyond offers you an unrivaled culinary journey. Every menu is crafted by Celebrity’s Michelin-starred chef and inspired by the regions they visit. Explore 32 restaurants, bars and lounges on board, including Le VoyageSM by Daniel Boulud, the world-renowned chef’s first signature restaurant at sea. A larger, redesigned Grand Plaza with a fully circular Martini Bar — always a hot spot — is the perfect gathering place for a night on the town miles out at sea. Of course, all the visionary spaces that have made Celebrity’s Edge Series ships so popular make their return on Celebrity Beyond. Fly across the open ocean on the Magic Carpet®, a cantilevered platform where you can dine, drink and soak up the amazing views. Lounge away the day at the asymmetrical, outward-facing pool area. Awaken all your senses at Eden, an ever-evolving venue wrapped in three-stories of glass. And find new ways to relax and rejuvenate at The Spa, where Celebrity has taken its dedication to holistic wellness to ahh-inspiring new heights. Want to make your holidays extra special? Book The Retreat, the ultimate luxury experience at sea. Stay in a breathtaking suite with plenty of room for the whole family and a Personal Retreat Host who ensures you never have to lift a finger. Dine in your private restaurant, Luminae at The Retreat, featuring menus found nowhere else on board. Kick back together in exclusive spaces, including a 24/7 lounge and two-story outdoor sundeck that rivals any luxury resort you’d find on land. Plus, everyone in your suite will enjoy a wide array of premium services and amenities, offering everything you need to celebrate the holidays in style.
ALL THE HOLIDAY FUN, NONE OF THE WORK
The best part of taking a Celebrity cruise over the holidays is you don’t have to do anything but relax and enjoy being with your family. No prep. No cleanup. Celebrity takes care of everything. Get together for delicious holidays meals, where Celebrity’s Michelin-starred chef has designed menus featuring all your favorite dishes. Enjoy beautiful decorations all around the ship and entertainment that’s sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit. Sailing into the New Year? Count down to midnight at an exciting ship-wide gala, complete with a Champagne toast to ring in 2023. You won’t miss anything you love about the holidays.
Ship to Shore
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A tripod is a wonderfully useful accessory on a cruise, allowing you to take better photos and videos, watch films or series hands-free, or stay in touch with family and friends via video calls without holding the phone. This flexible version from JOBY makes the humble tripod even more versatile, as its legs can wrap around any object. Compatible with every common phone brand, the Goril laPod can also mount accessories such as microphones and lights for even more professional results. $89.95. joby.com Take along these handy tools to enhance your cruising experience. BY JACK GUY
A pair of good binoculars will provide a new aspect to any cruise, allowing you to see more in port and spot other ships out at sea. This award-winning model from Hawke Sport Optics is adapted for use on ships, with a wide field of view, an IP67 waterproof rating and a protective storage case. Quality optics make for a bright image even in low light, and a slightly lower mag nification than other binoculars gives a steadier view. $299. hawkeoptics.com SUPERDANNY USB POWER STRIP WITH 2 AC OUTLETS AND 4 USB PORTS Cruise cabins simply don’t have enough sockets for the number of devices many travelers take with them, but power strips with surge protectors are banned on ships due to the fire risks. The SU PERDANNY USB Power Strip is cruise-compliant, boasting two AC plug sockets and four USB slots in a travel-friendly package measuring just 4.29 by 1.69 inches, so you’ll be able to keep all of your devices charged without stress. The company also makes larger models for those traveling in a group. $14.99. superdanny.net
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AmaWaterways lures passengers with curated wine cruises that reflect the ports of call. BY KELLY MAGYARICS
Pairings:Perfect Champagne on the top (left)wine(above),deckandwithdinnerPHOTOS:©AMAWATERWAYS
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 31 WINE & SPIRITS
cruises enjoy unlimited regional wine or beer at every lunch and dinner. This might mean a vibrant and juicy grenache-based rosé while cruising down the Rhône in Provence or sipping rich, honeysuckle- and orange blossomtinged Tokaj on a Danube sailing passing through Hungary. Each year the cruise line evaluates the wine list to provide the best expressions from the region and changes selections daily to reflect the current destination.
W hen a cruise line’s itineraries include jaunts to the world’s most iconic wine regions, from the Douro Valley to Bur gundy, you can bet the liquid options on board will be just as stellar as what comes out of a château cellar.Among its many floating adventures, AmaWaterways, a family-owned and -operated luxury cruise line with a fleet of 26 custom-designed ships, offers more than 60 exclusive Celebration of Wine River Cruises throughout Europe. As the ship navigates a wine region, passengers can sip and savor bottles whose grapes may have been grown on the very vineyards they pass and partake in interactive tastings, discussions and thoughtful pairings. Once on shore, wine experts lead guests on excursions including tours of notable producers and visits to local merchants, wine bars and festivals.“One of the most delightful aspects of the Wine Cruises is visiting Europe’s unique vineyards and wineries, such as France’s Saint-Emilion or the UNESCO-designated Residenz Palace, home to a beautiful wine cellar,” said Rudi Schreiner, cofounder and president. “These unique experi ences allow guests to walk alongside artisans and vintners to discover how Old World traditional techniques are being influenced by innovative, sustainable practices introduced by a young generation of winemakers.”
In 2011 AmaWaterways became a member of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the world’s oldest international gastronomic society (founded in Paris in 1248), becoming the first cruise line to have been granted an invitation to the prestigious organization. Membership allows the company to provide guests an enhanced culinary experience, including wines hand-selected in consultation with renowned European sommeliers.Duringdaily complimentary Sip & Sail cocktail hours on board, passengers are treated to wine; beer; spirits; soft drinks; and specially selected cocktails including cosmo politans, lemon drop martinis, and gin and tonics. “Every evening before dinner, our guests come together to relax, sip a cocktail or two and share their travel experiences, creating memories with family members or newfound friends that will last a lifetime,” Schreiner explained. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, the cruise line serves the AmaTwenty, a signature cocktail that shakes gin with apricot juice, apricot schnapps and lemon juice, served in a sugarrimmed glass, topped with sparkling wine and garnished with a glazed dried apricot. (Sample this cocktail at home with the recipe at amawater waysRegardless.com/connections/amatwenty-cocktail-recipe.)oftheitinerary,allguestsonAmaWaterways
“We want our guests to be able to fully embrace all aspects of their travel experience,” Schreiner said, “[including] tasting local varietals that they would not necessarily find once they return home.”
Sip and Sail
loating on the North Sea between Norway and Amster dam, I slipped on my robe and slippers and padded one deck up from my cabin to the Greenhouse Spa & Salon aboard Holland America Line’s newest Pinnacle Class ship, Rotterdam. After a few days adventuring in our various ports of call, I was ready for a spa indulgence on our final day at sea. When she was ready, my therapist collected me from the spa’s relaxation room. Sitting alone in the quiet and gazing through the floor-to-ceiling windows at the waters passing by had already started loosening my mind and body; I knew I would be putty in my therapist’s hands. The treatment rooms on board Rotterdam are just as tranquil, thoughtfully decorated and softly lit as any spa on dry land. As soon as we stepped into our treatment room, I felt even more of the weight of the world fall from my shoulders. After we chatted about the treatment I selected, a simple Swedish massage, my therapist left me to sink into the table. My eyes closed and my breathing deepened as she applied warm oil to begin the massage.
Facials using top-of-the-line ELEMIS products and its BIOTEC technique erase lines and leave skin looking radiant and hydrated. For pure indulgence, a few menu items combine facial and body treatments, like the 50- or 100-minute Couture Touch Face and Body Treatment and the 100-minute BIOTEC Face
In addition to traditional Swedish, deep tissue and reflexology massage techniques, the Greenhouse Spa’s therapists are also adept at restorative salt stone massage, coconut or Thai herbal poultice massage, aroma stone therapy and bamboo massage; several of these massages are available as 50-, 75-, or 100-minute treatments.
F
Soothing Sea: Relaxation room PHOTO: © AMERICAHOLLANDLINE GREENHOUSE SPA & SALON HOLLAND AMERICA LINE Rotterdam Caribbean and hollandamerica.comEuropeansailings
32 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 Drift Away Retreat to serenity at Holland America Line’s Greenhouse Spa & Salon. BY SUSAN B. BARNES SPAS
Additional massage treatments on the spa’s menu include 100minute R3 (Relax, Repair, Relief) Pain Management Therapy and an Aroma Spa Seaweed Massage, featuring a heated seaweed mask and wrap and a half- or full-body massage.
In addition to Rotterdam, Greenhouse Spa & Salon stands ready to pamper guests aboard all Holland America Line ships. Treatment:Special Hydro pool (top), and detox bath PHOTOS:(bottom)© HOLLAND AMERICA LINE
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 33 Treatment and Body Ritual. Aside from traditional facial and body treatments, Greenhouse Spa also offers hair and nail services such as up-dos and blowouts, manis and pedis. The Fire & Ice Manicure and Pedicure use therapeutic cooling gels and heated stone massage to prepare nails for a perfect polishing. In addition to all of this, Medi-Spa Aesthetics treatments include skin tightening, filler and cosmetic wrinkle treatments. Acupuncture treatments are also on the menu, along with cupping and herbal consultations.
Greenhouse Spa treatments provide access to the Thermal Suite, including a retreat to the quiet of the spa’s relaxation room to melt onto heated tile loungers with hypnotic sea views. Sauna, steam and the warm, soothing, jetted hydrotherapy pool are also part of the Thermal Suite. Outside of spa treatments, the suite is accessible with day and week-long passes so guests can recharge for their next seaworthy and landside adventures.Guided Pilates and yoga practices in the ship’s fitness center are available to complement the spa’s treatments. Those looking for more onboard activity to get their hearts pumping can take advantage of private personal training sessions or join group fitness classes like TRX suspension training; Trilo3y, a full-body workout; and RYDE Indoor Cycling. Body composition analyses are available for those who want an in-depth look at their overall health.
The spa experience on Rotterdam extends to the ship’s staterooms — Spa Inside, Spa Ocean View, Spa Verandah and the Neptune Spa Suite, to be exact. The spa-inspired staterooms feature yoga mats, premium massage showerheads, an iPod docking station and access to exclusive spa treatments in the Greenhouse Spa. The light-filled Neptune Spa Suite goes a step further with floor-to-ceiling windows; a private veranda; and a bathroom with dual-sink vanity, whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower.The staterooms’ décor throughout Rotterdam, spa-inspired and otherwise, features soft colors, so the Zen-like vibe flows from the spa into guests’ private spaces and the rest of the ship. When it comes to health-inspired dining, Chef Andy Matsuda, boasting more than 35 years of sushi mastery, brings his deep under standing of the relationship between food and health to Nami Sushi with a menu that features the freshest and most inventive sushi at sea.
Executive Chef Sidney Semedo fuels the Celebrity fleet with culinary passion. BY KIMBERLY KROL INLANDER CHEFS
WHICH FOOD IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? I love cooking fish. It is an overlooked, often underrat ed protein. Because fish requires delicate and perfect precision to be cooked correctly, it makes me feel more connected to the ingre dient. I love giving it the attention it deserves.
WHAT WAS THE FIRST MEAL YOU EVER PREPARED ON YOUR OWN? My mother, Fatinha, not only inspired me to be a chef but really showed me what work ethic and commitment to the kitchen is. I used to assist her on the daily prep for the food we sold at Port of Praia, Cabo Verde, where I am originally from. I grew up eating fried fish, bacalhou and katchupa . The local cuisine is a beautiful mix between Portu guese and West African cuisine. I remember making my first meal on my own at 7 years old. It was fried fish with white rice and black-eyed peas.
WHICH CULINARY TREND WOULD YOU LIKE TO DISAPPEAR? Charcoal-infused “black food” because it changes the best part of food — the natural colors and flavor.
Call of the Sea
CRUISESCELEBRITY©PHOTOS: N ew to the role in 2022 of corporate executive chef for Celebrity Cruises, Chef Sidney Semedo’s past experience and culinary expertise uniquely positioned him to expand the cruise line’s stand-out offerings while deepening his passion for food. He was born in Cabo Verde, a small island republic off Africa’s west coast, before moving to Boston in 2003. He found his way in a new country by expressing himself through food. A classically trained French chef, he stood out in the industry as he worked at some of Boston’s best hotels, restaurants and private clubs, such as Beacon Grille and the Harvard Club. Leaving Beantown to expand his repertoire, he led a number of hotels in three different states as executive chef and director of restaurant operations for Marriott Hotels. Boston called once again, and he opened Encore Boston Harbor by Wynn Resorts as executive chef. Today the sea calls to his culinary prowess. He oversees all culinary operations throughout Celebrity’s 15-ship fleet; he also leads more than 32 beverage concepts and interactive culinary workshops on board.
CELEBRITY celebritycruises.comCRUISES
WHAT DISHES WOULD YOU SERVE AT A PRIVATE DINNER PARTY? If I’m hosting a dinner party, I usually start with small bites and appetizers that inspire community and sharing, allow ing guests to come together. Some of my favorite small bites are oyster with saffron esca beche; chicken liver mousse; crispy brioche; and slow-roasted, dry-aged New York strip with pearl onion jam. From there, I prefer to host a light dinner. This usually looks like having a main dish with tuna sashimi with basil emulsion and pickled radishes and organic frisee; scallops, curry potato crisp, pork belly and brown butter orange sauce; and lamb roulade, sunchoke purée, local baby veg etables and sherry wine reduc tion. Of course, no dinner party is complete without a cheese plate. I like to serve aged Gouda as the dessert with sweet touches like house-made fig jam and pickled kumquats paired with Quinta do Vale Meao Vintage Port, 2018.
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IF YOU COULD DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE IN ONE DISH, WHICH DISH WOULD IT BE AND WHY? I am classical French trained. I love “the basic,” meaning focus on simplicity and quality. Buy the best and freshest ingredients possible, respect it, don’t bury the flavors and let the food speak for itself.
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One could argue the cruising experience and industry have improved by leaps and bounds, thanks in part to the way cruise lines used the pandemic downtime to raise standards in dining, safety and comfort. However, trend reports from trade organizations like Cruise Lines International Association and conversations with representatives from ocean and river cruises reveal old tropes associated with cruising (slow-paced, large group walking tours, buffet dining) began sailing into the sunset long beforeAlthough2020. the plug-and-play value proposition of cruises at all price points remains appealing, travelers want more control over their vacation destiny. While cruise lines and trade organizations will always debate about how the cruise market will take shape moving into 2023, changing social norms, habits and preferences also redefine life on board and on “Cruiseshore.lines offering passengers ample opportunities to customize what they want to eat and do has been a big part of cruising for quite some time,” observed Bob Levinstein, CEO, cruisecompete.com, whose business model empowers customers to choose the cruise they want and then review competing offers from independent travel agencies to find the best deal on their cruise adventure and make that customized dream trip a Levinsteinreality. points to Seattle-based UnCruise Adventures, whose Alaska cruise captured his imagination through an unusual combina tion of elements. “It’s a camping trip that happens to be on a ship with 5-star food, service and amenities,” he said. “Passengers went out to kayak, bike, hike or travel by skiff to see the different landscapes. [They] were surrounded by nature, as one could see things on land on either side of the ship as well as all kinds of wildlife from whales, seals and sea lions to two types of porpoises, puffins and otters. The small number of passengers ensured you connected with like-minded people.”
Today’s active and diverse travelers inspire cruise lines to rethink offerings for 2023. BY ELYSE GLICKMAN
CLIA’s reports and some cruise line representatives argue younger travelers’ preferences for more interactive, personalized and localized experiences influence how older generations of travelers shift their paradigms. For example, AmaWaterways reports it devised its Wellness Program in part to appeal to younger, more active travelers on select ships through fitness activities (guided hikes, biking excursions, fitness classes); amenities (whirlpools, heated sun deck pools); and a Zen Wellness Studio with fitness rooms, massage services and juice bars. This expands to its food and beverage program, with more plant-based and Waves
Connections:Cultural theExperienceEpicureanAAmaWaterways’SoulfulonRiverPHOTO:©AMAWATERWAYS
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CRUISING Making
PHOTOS: © OCEANIA
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 37 gluten-free offerings as well as vitaminrich breakfast smoothies and a detox waterLevinstein,station.
Multigenerational cruises continue to grow in popularity (evidenced by expansive kids’ and teen programs and amenities aboard Carnival, Norwegian, MSC and Disney Cruise Line), but other lifestyle-based accommodations now come into play. With an increasing number of single travel ers, for example, several lines including Celebrity, Hurti gruten, Virgin Voyages, Cunard and Royal Caribbean (noted for having the highest number of solo cabins) have been rethinking their single supplements practices. Itineraries and activities bringing together single travelers — particularly women — with common interests complement this trend.
Carnival, the first cruise operator to be certified “sensory inclusive” by nonprofit KultureCity, now makes sensory bags available for check-out. The bags contain a variety of items such as noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys and VIP lanyards to ensure passengers of all ages with sensory needs and invisible disabilities (autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, PTSD) have the most enjoyable experience. Furthermore, cruise lines train their guest services personnel and youth staff to understand and help passengers who need extra support or comforting.Sowhat’s on deck for cruising in 2023? Whatever floats your boat.
in contrast, said even with up-to-the-moment design elements like those found on Virgin Voyages and Celeb rity Cruises, the cost of a better cruise may keep the traditional age range of travelers in the 40-and-older bracket. However, both perspectives take into account the most successful cruise lines are open to change to expand their passenger base.
WhileAPPEALTAILOR-MADECRUISEScookingclasses, food tours and winery tours are now commonplace, companies go further by tapping into other trends, such as cultural identity (AmaWaterways’ just-launched Soulful Epicurean, aimed at Black travelers, and Oceania’s Go Local tours), environmental preser vation (UnCruise Adventures and Hurtigruten, plus Oceania Cruises’ new Go Green and Beyond Blueprints shore excur sion series), voluntourism and philanthropy (Carnival’s Give Back with Purpose tours), wellness (Celebrity’s Women in Wellness program; Aqua Class suites; and partnerships with GOOP, Peloton and F45) and full-on cultural immersion dedicated to acquiring knowledge rather than souvenirs (such as UnCruise Adventures’ offerings and AmaWaterways’ Colombia itinerary, starting in 2024).Although many passengers seek a device-free vacation, numerous cruise lines devised ways to make smartphone apps an enhancement rather than a hindrance to achieving a truly customized cruise experience. Lines also address a growing number of digital nomad travel ers, not only providing faster and more reliable WiFi technology but also spaces beyond the cabins such as work-friendly cafés and meeting areas where they can be productive when necessary.
While cruise lines enhance inclusivity through broaden ing choices open to specialty markets (such as LGBTQ+ options of gay-only, gay-friendly and gay families with kids cruises, or kosher cruises tailored for the Jewish market), amenities also have become more specialized.
Foodie Favorites: Oceania’s Culinary Center class (top) and culinary tour (bottom)
The luxury of personal space is central to the promise of An Unrivaled Experience® with Regent Seven Seas Cruises. It provides the extravagant freedom guests need to explore and relax to the fullest in some of the largest balconies and most spacious suites at sea. Come aboard and travel the world in total comfort, knowing every detail is taken care of and every amenity is included. START YOUR JOURNEY AT RSSC.COM CALL 1.844.473.4368 OR CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR SPACEUNRIVALEDATSEA™ To learn more and start your journey, scan the QR code.
Epic Voyages
T
The types of people who sail these world cruises are those with time, said Erik Elvejord, public relations director, Holland America Line. “These are the folks that love to explore but also embrace the idea that they just have to unpack once and then engage and enjoy.”
he idea of getting away from it all is the driving force behind many vacation plans. That’s easier thought than done. Oftentimes, as soon as “all” seems far behind, the trip is over and reality brings “it” back. A cruise around the world changes all that. The generous amount of time allotted to each sailing allows passengers to not only leave “it” all behind but also discover better things to replace “it.”
Explore the far reaches of the globe on a cruise around the world.
PHOTOS: © OCEANIACRUISES
Oceania Cruises’ Around the World luxury cruise highlights the Hawai‘ian Islands, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Asia, India and the Mediterranean. Plus, it includes more than 100 stops at UNESCO World Heritage sites in 96 destinations.
40 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 FEATURE | AROUND-THE-WORLD CRUISING
“Asia and Africa were especially appealing,” she said.
First-time world cruisers Vanessa and Todd Marino, both in their 50s, planned a cross-country move to be closer to family. Since they quit their jobs to make it happen, a world cruise sounded like the perfect way to kick off their new life. So they hopped on board Oceania Cruises’ Insignia for an Around the World in 180 Days trip. Vanessa said the sailing attracted her because the itinerary included many of her bucket-list destinations.
BY RINA NEHDAR Global Adventure: Oceania Cruises’ Insignia in China (top), veranda detail (bottom left), and pool deck (bottomright)
“The response to our 2024 world cruise clearly illustrates the resil iency, enthusiasm and passion that drive our guests to travel the world,” stated Howard Sherman, president and CEO, Oceania Cruises.
After the government lifted the pandemic stay-at-home orders, many people jumped at the chance to explore countries on their bucket list to ensure they wouldn’t just stay on that to-visit list. When Vanessa Marino tried booking their January 2022 trip in October 2021, it already appeared too late. “Many cabins were already sold out,” she said. But as sailing time neared, COVID restrictions still sealed the borders of some countries planned for the voyage. “Because New Zealand and Australia were still closed, some cabins opened up,” said Vanessa. As the Insignia set sail, everyone hoped the fluidity of the situation would evolve into a favorable outcome for other restricted countries. However, the ship was in Tahiti when they found out Asia would remain closed. To mitigate passenger disappointment, Oceania offered everyone who continued the trip a 15 percent discount off their original fare. The Marinos opted to stay. “They did a great job trying to make up for the changes. We spent a lot of time around the Hawai‘ian Islands, which wasVanessaterrific.”and
High in the Sky: The Magic Carpet, a seaofthatfloatingcantilevered,platformreachesaheight13storiesabovelevelon Celebrity Edge CELEBRITY CRUISES
“World cruises provide seamless access to some of the most hardto-reach destinations. For example, Regent’s 2025 Away In Wonder cruise will sail three oceans for 150 nights, visiting 97 ports of call in 25 countries on five continents. Destination highlights include South America, South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Asia and Alaska,” said Jason Montague, president and CEO, Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
PHOTO: ©
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Todd expected to be amazed during the six months they’d spend traveling the world. What they didn’t expect were the con nections they’d make with their fellow passengers. “We made such good friends on the boat,” said Vanessa. “We’re even stopping to see some of them as we drive cross-country for our move.”
Don’t look for the ATW sailing with Oceania in 2024, though, because cruisers rushed to book this trip as soon as it became available. The trip sold out within 30 minutes of its March 2022 sale date.
Passengers like Neidhardt, who appreciate the best and most luxurious travel modes, are drawn to companies like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, which describes itself as the world’s most luxurious fleet. New to its cruise offerings for 2025, Regent unveiled its Away in Wonder itinerary, sailing on board the all-suite Mariner, with an ocean balcony in each spacious cabin.
One cruiser, Patricia Neidhardt, CEO, travel agency Cruises-NMore, Inc., said, “We’ve traveled to all seven continents and have been to the Seven Wonders of the new and old world.” Neidhardt has sailed on nine world cruises and says she plans to go every year. “It’s become a way of life. Each year we reconnect with friends from around the globe.”
Away in Wonder: Regent
Cruises’ Mariner (top), Master Suite (bottom left), and Deluxe Veranda Suite (bottom right) PHOTOS: © REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES
One of the most wonderful things about exploring so many fantastical locations at one time is enjoying the ride instead of trying to coordinate all the details. “Regent has curated 395 free shore excur sions and 16 overnight stays in ports that allow for extended explora tion of exotic destinations including Rio de Janeiro, Bora Bora and Ho Chi Minh City. The itinerary also provides guests special access to 48 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Rapa Nui National Park, Hanga Roa on Easter Island and the Sydney Opera House,” said Montague.Theselong cruises are not the norm in cruising, though. “They’re a fantastic sabbatical from life,” said Neidhardt.
One cruise line stands out from the others by circumnavigating the world along its rivers. The 2023 Rivers of the World tour with Uni world offers sailors passage through two continents and nine different countries over a span of 46 days on four different ships. Travelers set off down the Nile River to begin their journey through history on Uniworld’s newest ship, S.S. Sphinx. This 11-day trip that ends in Lisbon includes day excursions with an Egyptologist through UNESCO World Heritage sites like the temples at Abu Simbel. Next, hop on the included flight to set sail for an 11-day trip through Swit zerland and Italy. The next seven days take guests through Germany, Austria and Hungary, with private tours of exclusive locations. Then Seven Seas
If sailing in a two-story villa sounds appealing, then consider the 52-night world sailing on Celebrity Edge’s Grand Journey. The Grand Journey starts in Rome and disembarks in Sydney. Along the way, excursions take passengers deep into Sicily, Athens, Singapore and Sri Lanka. The Edge is one of Celebrity Cruises’ newest vessels and features a contemporary and open design. Suites offer ceiling-to-floor glass walls and infinity verandas and pools. A floating deck called the Magic Carpet has outdoor seating and a bar for live music that is raised or lowered between the 13 stories of the boat. Top chefs prepare unforgettable meals, and Peloton workouts aim to keep them in your life only as great memories.
“On average, these ships are a bit more intimate when it comes to their capacity,” said Chris Mastrippolito, director of global research, Cruise Lines International Association. “Typically, such a long cruise would be associated with a higher-end luxury brand. The ships that perform these kinds of sailings tend toward smaller vessels and higher crew-to-guest ratios.” Once a traveler commits to a world cruise, the next step is deciding how to take that adventure.
42 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022
The captain of their last voyage left the Marinos with a thought that stayed with them. “You’re not cruisers,” he said. “You’re travelers. You’re here because you want to see the world.”
cruise through France’s Seine River and its spectacular wine country, complemented with decadent dishes. Finally, set sail along the Douro River Valley, stopping alongside charming villages in Spain and Portugal. Everything is included during this slow and savory journey. Travelers who want to see the world and also have a hand in saving it will love the two Pole to Pole expeditions by the pioneer of long-haul cruising, Hurtigruten Expeditions. After leading explorers on discovery missions for 126 years, Hurtigruten learned how to appreciate the Earth without hurting it. Details of the two 2023 sailings vary, but both start at the top of the world at the Arctic Circle and wind down following different paths, finding their way to the Northwest Passage and through the Panama Canal. After almost 100 days, the ship ends up in Antarctica, after stops in 11 countries. Both ships are the most sustainable in the world, redefining green travel. Both are hybrid battery-powered cruise ships, with one being the first such ship on the planet. Obviously, using anything plastic on board would lead to a walk along the plank. Hurtigruten Expeditions also boasts the only permanent scientist on staff overseeing its citizen scientist program. Passengers are invited to collect samples during their day expeditions to help in ongoing research, often undertaken by visiting scientists cruising alongside regular guests. Hurtigruten sold out its 2022 sailings almost immediately, and its 2023 trips are sellingThisfast.great demand for longer sailings inspired cruise lines like Oceania to create new, longer itineraries such as its four new Grand Voyages that explore the world between 72 and 82 days. In addition, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Aida Cruises, Costa Cruises, MSC Cruises, Peace Boat, Phoenix Reisen, Silversea Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises offer their own versions of around-the-world voyages. After her first world sailing, Vanessa Marino is hooked. “We already booked one of those new 77-day Grand Voyage trips that sail to countries in Asia and Africa that were closed on our first trip.”
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Inspiring Sights: ExpeditionsHurtigruten in Trollfjord in Norway (top), and corner suite on MS Roald Amundsen PHOTOS: © EXPEDITIONSHURTIGRUTENKLAUSSNER,ANDREA©
Live It Up: (Left to right)
44 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 FEATURE | THE WORLD’S NEWEST CRUISE SHIPS
This year Norwegian Cruise Line introduces its newest class of ship, the Prima, designed to encourage passengers to live life to the fullest by elevating the cruising experience from every angle. Norwegian Prima, the first ship in its class and christened in August, emphasizes luxury, wide-open spaces and family entertainment. Prima’s spacious design and welcoming outdoor common areas encourage passengers to enjoy the sunshine and fresh sea air, while lavish staterooms and suites top off the voyage with rooms designed for comfort and relaxation.Ocean Boulevard, the ship’s outdoor pool and lounge area, offers a unique way to stroll the ship with Oceanwalk, a glass over-the-water bridge that creates the effect of walking on water. Infinity pools that let you swim up to the edge of the ship, lulling hammocks and romantic firepits complete the relaxing space. At the same time, a never-ending list of activities, including a first-of-its-kind enter tainment venue that transforms from a three-story theater into a Vegas-style night club, ensures guests enjoy themselves at every turn. Kids of all ages will appreciate the thought put into onboard activities like Prima Speedway, a three-level go-kart racetrack, as well as two different slide experiences that offer an extreme rush as you drop 10 stories in the world’s first free-fall dry slide at sea. The Galaxy Pavilion, a venue where guests can enjoy escape rooms, racing simulators or the Artist renderings of Norwegian Prima Prima CRUISEPHOTOS:hammockspool,HavenIndulgeGalaxySpeedway,Pavillion,firepit,ThesundeckandIndulge©NORWEGIANLINE
C ruise ships have a longstanding reputation for pushing the boundaries of luxury and entertainment. But when the COVID-19 pandemic brought travel to a near halt, it threatened the existence of the cruising industry. Thankfully, the industry is nothing if not resilient, and it not only managed to survive but pushed forward through adversity with the introduction of some of the most impressive ships to ever sail the seas. The ships being introduced by today’s top cruise lines will include all of the standards travelers have come to love — such as spa treatments, first-rate entertainment and world-class dining — but the newest ships to grace the seas will take these experiences to new heights.
BY EUGENIA LAZARIS
Big Splash
The newest cruise ships elevate the onboard experience.
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 45 first at-sea TopGolf experience, gives tech fanatics a chance to enjoy the latest in virtualForentertainment.in-roomrelaxation and onboard dining, NCL spared no expense, with rooms reminiscent of the world’s most luxurious hotel rooms rather than a cruise ship cabin. The Haven offers an exclusive, VIP guest experience with private elevators, personal concierge and 24-hour butler service along with spacious suites designed by Italian designer Piero Lissoni.
Royal Caribbean recently introduced Wonder of the Seas, a ship making its debut in March of this year with seven-day western Mediterranean itineraries sailing from Barcelona and Rome. This inaugural European season will run through October, at which time the ship will homeport in Cape Canaveral to offer year-round Caribbean itineraries. Currently enjoying the distinction of the world’s largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas measures a whopping 1,188 feet, nearly four times the length of a football field. This impressive ship houses eight distinct neighborhoods, each designed to provide guests with a unique onboard experience. The Boardwalk features a variety of games, dining and activities including an arcade and Aqua Theater, an acrobatic aquatic performance theater. The Central Park neighborhood features 20,000 real plants and offers the perfect place to stroll, shop or dine in the fresh air; while the Solarium, an adults-only climate-controlled lounge space with pools and whirlpools, offers the perfect place for parents to relax while the kids enjoy their own indoor and outdoor play spaces.
Wonder of the Seas, along with future sister ships Icon of the Seas (planned for a fall 2023 debut) and Utopia of the Seas (coming in spring 2024), will mark a shift toward cleaner energy for Royal Caribbean. Powered by liquified natural gas, all three feature other advanced technologies introduced on Wonder of the Seas. A heat waste recovery system that repurposes the ship’s excess energy into usable power, shore power connectivity which reduces emissions while in port, and the ship’s ability to produce 90 percent of the fresh water used on board poise Royal Caribbean International at the forefront of the future with clean-energy cruise ships.In late 2021 Regent Seven Seas Cruises began construction on its newest addition, Seven Seas Grandeur. “Seven Seas Grandeur will be a culmination of Regent’s rich history of providing discerning travelers unrivaled experiences with every imaginable luxury included and worldwide, immersive exploration,” said
Following the debut of Norwegian Prima, NCL plans to add sister ship Norwegian Viva to its family of ships in May 2023. The ship is expected to sail throughout the Caribbean and Mediterranean beginning in summer 2023.
46 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022
Seven Seas Grandeur is expected to launch its inaugural season in November 2023 with 17 voyages throughout the Mediterranean and Caribbean, as well as two trans-Atlantic crossings. Voyages will sail seven- to 16-night itinerar ies, and guests may choose from 15 suite categories, including the spacious 4,443-square-foot Regent Suite, which includes its own in-suite spa. With each accommodation curated to live up to — if not surpass — Regent’s heritage of luxury and excellence, passengers will enjoy pure indulgence during their voyage.Princess Cruises debuted its newest ship, Discovery Princess, in March 2022, marking the final addition to the cruise line’s Royal Class of ships. Built at the world-renowned Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, the ship accommo dates 3,660 passengers and features the decadence and personalized service for which Princess Cruises is known. With bars and restaurants led by Michelinstarred chefs and master mixologists, world-class shopping and entertainment, and a host of activities designed for both fun and relaxation, Discovery Princess leaves nothing to be desired.
Year after year, the cruising industry proves its commitment to providing travelers with unmatched excellence and unrivaled experiences. Today’s cruise lines introduce ships representing the face of tomorrow’s cruise industry, giving travelers the comfort they crave without compromising on quality. As the indus try continues its road to recovery, we can expect to see even more impressive selections like these new additions, carefully designed to give adventure-seeking travelers an experience laced with luxury.
The ship’s Sky Suite takes decadent accommodations to a new level. Featur ing a private 1,000-foot continuous balcony offering a 270-degree panoramic view of the ocean and a dedicated Suite Experience Manager to see to your every need, the Sky Suite ensures the ultimate experience in luxury cruising.
In the Neighborhoods: Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas Central Park (opposite page), Boardwalk (top), and Royal PHOTOS:Promenade©ROYALCARIBBEAN
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Jason Montague, president and CEO, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Designed to accommodate a maximum of 750 passengers, it will boast one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the cruising industry, creating a passenger-centered experience from the moment a guest steps aboard.
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50destinationsbusiness MONTRÉAL 56 MIAMI & LAUDERDALEFORT 60 JAMAICA 62 DUBAI 64 SANTA BARBARA 65destinationsleisure KYOTO 66 FRENCH RIVIERA 70 DUBLIN 72 FIJI 76 CRUISING THE AMAZON In the Swim: Vomo Island, Fiji PHOTOS: © VOMO ISLAND FIJI FIJI 72
A s the second-most populated river island on the planet (behind Zhongshan in China), Montréal offers visitors and its 1.9 million residents a plethora of urban amenities, from its Parisian atmosphere, great restaurants and hotels to cultural and sporting venues, along with seafaring opportunities from St. Lawrence River cruises to kayaking local canals.
Revel in Montréal’s Parisian ambience and boundless natural beauty.
BY RON BERNTHAL
One of the city’s newest arts icons, The Ring, suspends a 98-foot steel structure at Place Ville Marie, symbolizing the strong connec tion between Montréal, its citizens and its visitors. Award-winning landscape architects Claude Cormier + Associés designed The Ring.
Rolling on the River
In addition to several new hotels and restaurants, numerous urban development projects will benefit both Québécois and visitors. The new REM (Réseau Express Métropolitain), a fully automated, elevated light rail transit network, will make the city even more connected and accessible, with direct links between various Montréal communities. With 42 miles of rail line connect ing 26 new stations, the 100 percent electric REM will not only alleviate traffic snares but also reduce tons of fossil fuel emissions.
50 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 DESTINATION ONE | MONTRÉAL City Landscape: Mount Royal Park and Downtown Montréal PHOTO: © CHOQUETTEALEXANDRE/TOURISMEMONTRÉAL
Plans include direct train access between Montréal’s Trudeau International Airport and downtown. The project is expected to start operations in late 2022.
1025 Rue$$$Lenoir Monarque
DINING Gia Vin & Grill
Located in the Saint-Henri neighborhood, a 13-minute drive from downtown, this new casual and friendly restaurant offers arrosti cini (charcoal-grilled meat skewers), seafood and vegetable dishes, and pastas like pici all’anatra, a duckladen Tuscan specialty.
421 Rue$$$$–$$$$$Saint-Vincent
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 51 Making Connections: Restaurant Monarque (top), and The Ring (bottom)
PHOTOS: © LAURIE-ANNE ROUX © @JFSAVARIA
406 Rue$$$–$$$$$Saint-Jacques Terrasse Carla Perched on the sixth-floor terrace of Hampton Inn by Hilton, it features views of Old Montréal and décor that channels 1950s Saigon. The menu mixes French and Vietnamese flavors; try the gingery salmon tartare or mussels in white wine and coconut cream sauce. Open 3–11 p.m.
This atmospheric brasserie ranked No. 17 on Canada’s Best 100 Restaurants list, and its great cuisine matches its savvy interior design. Fish and shell fish specialties include a bouillabaisse studded with mussels, monkfish, cod, prawn and squid. Also excel lent: dry-aged beef, snails, sweetbreads, duck and squab, and a large wine list.
985 Blvd.$$–$$$$Saint-Laurent
$$$$ Hôtel William Gray Housed in two 18thcentury buildings in Old Montréal, the 127-room hotel boasts a modern in terior and original exterior, with contemporary art and one of the best spas in the city, offering unique treat ments, herbal sauna and outdoor pool. Nice views, three dining venues.
LODGING Four Seasons MontrealHotel
Opened in 2019, this sleek, upscale hotel offers 169 stylish rooms and suites, a spa, a rooftop indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center. Dine at the expan sive third-floor MARCUS restaurant, terrace, lounge and bar, developed by noted chef Marcus Samu elsson. 1440 Rue de la $$$$$Montagne Hôtel St-Thomas The upscale, 23-room boutique hotel in down town Montréal, located in a heritage building, juxta poses old-world charm with modern architecture. Opened in 2020, within walking distance of Place des Arts and excellent res taurants, the hotel includes complimentary breakfast, free WiFi and smart TVs. 430 Sherbrooke St. E.
This year, Société du Parc Jean-Drapeau unveiled major renovation plans, focusing on “re-greening” the park space, to include a riverside promenade featuring a ferry entrance and waterfront public square open to the river. The former Expo-Express bridge will transform into a New Yorkstyle high line promenade, and certain spaces in the park will be dedicated to wetlands.Lookfor Royalmount, the second-largest private real estate project in Québec, to open in phases beginning 2023. Located in the heart of Montréal, the mixed-use complex developed by Carbonleo incorporates an upscale retail offering with more than 170 stores and 60 bars and restau rants, businesses and entertainment. This pedestrian-oriented development project will be 100 percent carbon-neutral once fully functioning. The first phase comes at a cost of approximately $835 million. Currently undergoing a major renovation, the Museum of Contem porary Art will reside in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles. As work continues on the new building on Place des Arts, MAC relocated to Place Ville Marie in November 2021 and will remain in its temporary home until completion of the museum’s transformation in 2024.
Community Vision: Artist rendering of aerial view of Royalmount project LEMAY City View
PHOTO: © CARBONLEO
52 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 JUST THE FACTS Time zone: GMT-4 Phone code: Country code: 1 City codes: 514, 819, 438 (New city codes 263 and 354 begin in Currency:October.) Canadian dollar. U.S. dollars are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. U.S. credit cards are accepted everywhere. Key industries: Aerospace, elec tronic goods, pharmaceuticals, printed goods, software engineer ing, telecommunications, textile and apparel manufacturing, tobacco, tourism and transportation INFO TO Montréal-PierreGOElliott Trudeau International Airport lies about 12 miles from downtown Mon tréal. Travelers can transit to and from the airport via express bus service ($8.50, 45–70 minutes) or taxi ($32, 40–60 minutes). Car rental agencies are available at the airport. Few downtown hotels offer airport shuttle service.
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 53
The province of Québec prides itself on being one of the safest destina tions anywhere in the world. The city’s vibrant array of hotels, restaurants, bars, boutiques and malls, museums, theaters, concert and sports venues, popular attractions and more are open at full capacity and ready to serve all comers in a manner that is mindful of safety and security.
Are any Montréal?andplacerestrictionsCOVID-19stillinforresidentsvisitorsto
Visitors:Welcoming Manuela Goya (top), and Port of Montréal Grand Quay
CHECKING IN WITH MANUELA GOYA
What major cultural revitalization projects are taking place in Montréal? Le Théâtre St-Denis is set to begin a new chapter in its history by becoming part of Espace St-Denis, a new cultural and gastronomic destination in the heart of the Latin Quarter. This new entertainment offering includes the storied theater, a studio-cabaret with a 180-degree virtual environment, a French brasserie-style restaurant, a terrace and grill and more.
Vice President, Destination Development and Public Affairs, Tourisme Montréal
Recreational boating and cruising are nice attractions for many visiting the city. What water options would you suggest to visitors? Hop aboard and get ready to cast off on a pleasure cruise to remember with Le Petit Navire , an ultra-quiet, zero-pollution electric propulsion boat (carbon-neutral certified) designed for ultimate touring. Offering 45-minute or two-hour guided cruises along Old Port or Lachine Canal, a trip aboard Le Petit Navire has been a must-do Montréal experience for more than 15 years.Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy river surfing by standup paddleboard and kayaking, just minutes from downtown. In Montréal the rapids of the St. Lawrence River provide a couple of options for stationary surfing. While using a similar technique to catching waves in the ocean, river surfing is its own unique experience, largely because the wave just doesn’t end. Founded in 1995, KSF offers a selection of river-based excursions, and surf lessons are one of the most popular activities.
The Centre d’histoire de Montréal begins its transition; the space will become the MEM – Centre des mémoires mon tréalaises. Located in the heart of Montréal’s Quartier des Spectacles, at the corner of Saint-Laurent Boulevard and SaintCatherine Street, MEM will be a museum and citizen space that will be both inclusive and innovative. Citizen voices of yesterday and today will be honored as we reveal the identities and history that make up the city’s world famous “showmanship.” Opening planned for 2023.
TOURISMECHOQUETTE©MONTRÉAL,RICHARDPHOTOS:(bottom)©MONIC/TOURISMEALEXANDRE/MONTRÉAL
PHOTO:excursions©DAY TOURS - BATEAUMOUCHE
The Port will open its newest venue, the 213-foot Port of Montréal Tower, to visitors in late 2022, a unique architectural feature certain to become one of the most soughtafter new venues in the city.
As another option for St. Lawrence River cruising, Croisieres AML operates dozens of sightseeing cruises, including whalewatching and Zodiac tours, several different types of brunch and dinner cruises, and much more.
The 60- and 90-minute day tours cover many Montréal locations, including the OId Port, Montréal Olympic Stadium, Montréal Science Centre, Jacques Cartier Bridge and Habitat 67. The 3.5-hour dinner cruise covers the same attractions and includes a fine-dining menu, a live musical perfor mance, a sound and light experience, and other amenities.
FrenchLANGUAGEOFFICIALisdominant, but Mon tréal is the most bilingual city in Québec and Canada; almost 60 percent of the population speak English and French.
River Cruise: Bateau-Mouche
DIVERSIONS2022
Montréal is actually the largest island in the Hochelaga Archipelago, which comprises 235 much smaller islands. St. Lawrence River cruise boats offer great options for visitors looking for one- or multiday river adventures. Freshly renovated, Port of Mon tréal’s Grand Quay offers updated marine infrastructures alongside unique contem porary spaces designed for the enjoyment of cruise passengers and landlubbers.
For cruising options, the popular 121foot Bateau-Mouche launched in 1992 and offers a 440-square-foot, glass-enclosed upper deck; a glass-enclosed lower deck; and an open-air deck, with a total capacity of 152 passengers. For its dinner cruises, the ship does not use plastic glasses, plates or utensils — real chinaware only — and its green philosophy also means a smoke-free environment at all times.
COMING AND ForGOINGentryto Canada, U.S. citizens must have a valid passport, and some COVID-19 restrictions remain in place. Trudeau Airport provides border pre-clearance for departing passengers bound for the United States.
54 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER
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56 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 STATESIDE | MIAMI & FORT LAUDERDALE
B y the numbers, Miami truly ranks as the cruise capital of the world, a moniker it proudly touts. Simply put, PortMiami receives more cruise passengers than any other port on the planet, and Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades weighs in at a noteworthy third-busiest globally, itself. Before the pandemic slammed the industry worldwide in early 2020, PortMiami welcomed more than 6.8 million cruis ers throughout 2019 … but the challenge of being on top, of course, is staying on top. Suzie Sponder, senior director of communications, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, doesn’t think that’s a problem for Miami, even“Newpost-pandemic.developments at PortMiami will only ensure its continued status,” Sponder said, and those developments are numerous. Earlier this year, Virgin Voyages opened its brand-new Terminal V at Port Miami, and November will see the unveiling of Norwegian’s Pearl of Miami (Terminal B), as well as the big reveal of Carnival Cruise Line’s renovations at Terminal F. Perhaps most exciting for the city’s famed port, MSC Cruises already broke ground on its new terminal, AA/ AAA, in March, and Sponder said the $300 million project expects to introduce the largest cruise ship terminal in the world at its completion in fallWith2023.all these new facilities come plenty of new ships, too, and 2022 alone promises at least three new major arrivals at PortMiami by year’s end. Earlier this summer Disney Dream relocated from Port Canaveral to its new home base in Miami, bringing up to 4,000 passengers for each of its 100-plus annual sailings to Castaway Cay in The Bahamas. It’s scheduled to move to Port Everglades in November 2023, by which time Disney plans to complete its overhaul of Terminal cruise terminals, ships and hotels keep the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas humming. BRANDON SCHULTZ
Port of the Future New
BY
Bon Voyage!: Cruise ship leavingPHOTO:MiamiPort© DREAMSTIME.COMFRANCISCOBLANCO
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 57 WelcomingTravelers SABITOVNorwegianPortMiami:CruiseLineTerminalB(top),guestroomatYOTELPADMiami(bottomleft),andatreetunnelalongtheOldCutlerRoadinCoralGables(bottomright)PHOTOS:©YAROSLAV|DREAMSTIME.COM,©YOTELPADMIAMI,©GABRIELAFOJT|DREAMSTIME.COM
Of course, if you prefer to stick to the ocean theme of your cruise adventure, why not take a scenic boat drive instead?
SCENIC DRIVES
If you’re only in town briefly, pre- or post-cruise, drive down Miami Beach’s Ocean Drive for a quick immersion tour of the city’s most iconic offerings. You won’t often move quickly along this mile-and-a-quarter stretch, and it may inspire you to make plenty of stops for snacks and snaps, so it’s easy to make a true road trip-style drive of this picturesque path. You’ll spot as much Art Deco and pastel-painted architecture as you could possibly desire to the west, while the ocean often glitters to the east. A hotbed of sportscar afficionados, Miami Beach is certainly not known for its law-abiding drivers, though, and pedestrians and bicyclists only complicate journeys through its busier neighborhoods.
Poseidon Ferry offers a 75-minute scenic skyline cruise that departs from the ferry dock on the Miami River Bay Walk. It also operates a commuter ferry service to and from key neighbor hoods like Miami, Miami Beach and Coconut Grove locally, and even Bimini and Nassau in The Bahamas, just a few hours away.
4. This fall PortMiami also welcomes Valiant Lady from Virgin Voyages and the behemoth Carnival Celebration, with capacity for a whopping 5,374 guests pouring into the city with each sailing. Fort Lauderdale will bring in new business, as well; from Celebrity’s sprawling Terminal 25 at Port Everglades, the line’s newest ship, Ascent, will make her maiden voyage in December 2023. To support the influx of new visitors adding to the crush of cruisers already passing through this sailing hot spot annually, Sponder said a host of new hotels are opening in the vicinity of PortMiami through 2022 and beyond. YOTELPAD Miami opened a combination hotel and condo tower in June, and citizenM Miami World Center debuts this month with 351 app-controlled bedrooms, similar to the 252 smart rooms already opened in August at sister property citizenM Miami Brickell Hotel. From InterContinental Hotels Group, Atwell Suites, a new IHG brand, will open in Downtown Miami in November, and Hyatt begins two new builds in 2022 with Thompson South Beach and Grand Hyatt Miami Beach Convention Center Hotel, adding 800 rooms alone. Looking ahead, the city expects a new Moxy in 2023, and Baccarat and Virgin have properties currently scheduled for 2025 openings, as does Treehouse, which plans to make its U.S. debut in Miami the same year. Fort Lauderdale, too, racked up thousands of new rooms, with recent openings including hotels from avid, Four Seasons, Hilton, Kimpton, Marriott, AC, Courtyard and Cambria.
For a somewhat less obstacle-laden afternoon, consider Old Cutler Road in charming Coral Gables, where you’ll find nearly 15 miles of scenic driving passing through desir able neighborhoods like Pine Crest and Palmetto Bay. The highlights of this route are the road’s famous tree tunnels of mesmerizing old banyan trees.
As it seeks to meet the surge of pent-up demand from nearly two years of empty seas, the cruise industry continues to count on the expertise and dominance of Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and the region stands ready.
NO CHANGE FEES. EVER. THE END.
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MICE | JAMAICA 60 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 Memorable Meetings: Montego Bay Convention Centre (top), bamboo raft and captain on Martha Brae River (bottom left), and Bellefield Great House (bottom right) PHOTOS: © DEBBIE ANN POWELL | DREAMSTIME.COM, © ANNA GRIESSEL | DREAMSTIME.COM, © BELLEFIELD GREAT HOUSE
BY SHERYL NANCE-NASH J amaica checks all the boxes when it comes to that ideal vacation: sunshine, beautiful beaches, great food (jerk chicken, escovitch fish, rum punch, Red Stripe beer), can’t-sit-inyour-seat reggae music, sailing and waterfalls. It’s the trip you wait for all year. And with the cruise industry rebounding, Jamaica is on track to lure 3 million cruise ship visitors by 2025.Asmuch as Jamaica is all about fun, it’s also a place to do business. When it comes to meetings, trade shows and conventions, Jamaica delivers. The World MICE Awards crowned Jamaica the Caribbean’s Best MICE Destination 2021. Look to Jamaica’s renowned luxurious, all-inclusive resorts and hotels, many with top-notch convention and meeting facilities. These include The Jamaica Pegasus, Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall, AC Hotel by Marriott Kingston, Half Moon Resort and Sandals South Coast, among others. The excellence doesn’t stop there.
ROSEdevonhouseja.comHALLGREAT HOUSE
Montego Bay also boasts world-class resorts like Eclipse at Half Moon, and for R&R you’ll find golfing, fishing, bamboo rafting, snorkeling, Doctor’s Cave Beach and an array of restaurants. Meeting goers can explore Ocho Rios — just 90 minutes away and home to Dunn’s River Falls and Park, as well as Mystic Mountain for ziplining in the jungle, rides and more. In Negril, also a mere 90 minutes away, get your water fix with all that the famous Seven Mile Beach offers. A bonus: the five miles of cliffs. Enjoy the laid-back, casualchic vibe in Negril, with fun spots like Rick’s Café where you can catch the most incred ible sunsets and watch the uninhibited jump from the cliffs into the sea.
The Jamaica Conference Centre sits on the waterfront in the bustling downtown business district in Kingston, the nation’s capital. Expect bells and whistles like confer ence rooms decked out with an electronic voting system, observers’ gallery, press gal leries, elevated rostrum, portable circular stage for special performances, exhibition hall and much more. All conference rooms are equipped for simultaneous interpreta tion of six languages. Host smaller meetings and workshops in the caucus rooms. For a swanky cocktail party, head to the facility’s Harbour Lounge and take in the sight of the Palisadoes Peninsula from a 220-foot tempered-glass wall. The Seabreeze Restau rant overlooks the entry plaza, reflecting pool and garden. Norman Manley Interna tional Airport lies 20 minutes away. Discover the rich culture in Kingston with its theaters, recording studios, museums like Bob Marley Museum, restaurants and art galleries. You can also enjoy nature, as this vibrant city sits at the foot of the Blue and John Crow Mountains, where you can explore. Arrange an intriguing outing in the village of Port Royal, at the end of the Pali sadoes at the mouth of Kingston Harbour, a sunken city and once the hangout for pirates and buccaneers. Port Royal remains one of the best-preserved underwater heritage sites.
This restored 18th-century architec tural marvel in Montego Bay is awash in greenery, history and beauty, ideal for special events. Rose Hall Estate boasts two championship golf courses with views of the Caribbean, waterfalls and more. rosehall.com JAMAICA ALL ABOUT FUN,
AS MUCH AS
Island Time Get in the groove for a world-class meeting in Jamaica.
IS
Bellefield Great House and Estate, one of the oldest sugar plantations in Jamaica, lies 15 minutes from Montego Bay. Guests can tour the sugar mill from the early 1700s. The gardens, city, estate and mountain views make for a dramatic, beautiful setting for a special event. The Great House, built in the 1600s, offers venue spaces that accommodate 10–600 guests. Idyllic spots include the Front Lawn and Fountain with giant palm trees; mirrored, cut-stone stair cases that lead to a three-tiered fountain; and city views that stretch to the sea.
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DEVONbellefieldgreathouse.comHOUSEMANSION
Devon House Mansion displays Caribbean and Georgian architecture at its finest. Highlights of the Kingston property include the Formal Gardens, ideal for an elegant evening soirée with palms, fountains and a stone aisle with grand marble steps entering the mansion. It says, “Wow!” For larger outdoor events or exhibits, choose the lush green South Lawn, complete with a gazebo to stage presentations and performances.
The oceanfront Montego Bay Conven tion Centre, set on 35 acres with scenic mountain and ocean views, features more than 135,000 square feet of meeting, exhibi tion and ballroom spaces with state-of-the-art technology — all conveniently located 15 minutes from Sangster International Airport.
IT’S ALSO A PLACE TO DO BUSINESS. WHEN IT COMES TO MEETINGS, TRADE SHOWS AND CONVENTIONS, JAMAICA DELIVERS. THE WORLD MICE AWARDS CROWNED JAMAICA THE CARIBBEAN’S BEST MICE DESTINATION 2021.
UNIQUE VENUES BELLEFIELD GREAT HOUSE AND ESTATE
BY SHARON KING HOGE
To proceed with arrangements, the simplest logistic is to select one specific district for meetings and meals. Taxis and Uber and Careem car services are in expensive and available, the car fare from the airport to the commercial district runs around $10–20 (or just more than $1 per ride on the ultra-sleek rapid transit Dubai Metro, with convenient stops at popular business neighbor hoods). But focusing on one locale avoids traffic and saves time.
the Rise
Dubai’s business landscape expands by leaps and bounds.
Out-of-town colleagues may appreciate meeting in the world’s tallest W ith a free trade zone, limited import duties, no tax rate and 5 percent annual growth, Dubai offers a prospering business environment. A city boasting various dedicated commercial districts, more than 500 hotels and more than 10,000 interna tional restaurants, the capital of the emirate nearly overwhelms the business traveler with venue opportunities.
Conventionally, business transactions center around the Dubai Interna tional Finance Center, the leading financial hub of the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. The 272-acre zone intermingles financial institutions and compa nies with retail, restaurant and residential. The Ritz-Carlton DIFC provides direct access to the zone as well as extensive event and meeting spaces, half a dozen restaurants and the popular Lobby Lounge for snacks and afternoon tea. Access to the exclusive Club Lounge enables Club Level guests to entertain clients in a semi-private setting.
the protocols of conservative dress, mocktails and a relaxed attitude to time. Essential above all is wasta, the term for networking. Getting to know your clients, accepting invitations to their homes and presenting appropriate gifts when entertained all prove important aspects of making deals.
Business is conducted Sunday through Thursday (although U.A.E. public sector employees now work Monday to Thursday with a flexible half day on Friday under the New Labor Law), with limited hours during Ramadan. Dealing with locals calls for
On
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Looking Up: Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall ©PHOTO:YULIA BELOUSOVA | DREAMSTIME.COM
Dubai anticipates opening its newest business and residential zone in October, converting the former site of Expo 2020 Dubai into District 2020, a “15-minute city” allowing travel from one side to the other without need for a car. Along with a recording studio and exhibi tion center, it will retain some of the fair’s country pavilions such as the falcon-shaped U.A.E. structure and the extraordinary cantilevered and mirrored pavilion of Saudi Arabia. A second hotel will be added, and Rove Expo 2020 Hotel will continue to provide comfortable meeting rooms, a lounge and a pool overlooking the expo’s landmark Al Wasl Dome amphitheater. the Water: Dubai Marina (top), traditional dhow wooden boat on Dubai Creek (middle), and camels on the beach (bottom)
On
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 63 building, Burj Khalifa. After a trip in the elevator to 360-degree views from the 124th-floor Observation Tower, guests can enjoy a three-course lunch in the third-floor Burj Club. Or opt for something more extravagant from the critically acclaimed Business Lunch menu at windowed At.mosphere on the 122nd floor. Within the Burj, book meeting space and “discrete and stylish boardrooms” at the pricey Armani Hotel, touted as the world’s only 7-star hotel, featuring a cocktail lounge and five restaurants. Steps away explore Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest indoor retail complexes, enclosing six levels of luxury brands, an ice rink, a multicolor four-story-high waterfall, an aquarium, and restaurants offering every type of international cuisine from fast food to fine dining. Consider meeting colleagues at Media City, the regional hub of media, creative and digital industries comprising com mercial and co-working spaces and studios. In addition, the chic Arjaan by Rotana offers six fully equipped meeting rooms, while Radisson Blu Hotel can arrange for catered meals in its leather-upholstered meetingMorespaces.adventurous business clients may enjoy an outing, and Media City lies in the vicinity of the Emirates Golf Club, Jebel Ali Racecourse and Dubai Marina. If it’s too hot to tee off, the championship Emirates Golf Club includes facilities for swimming, fitness, tennis and dining. Jebel Ali runs races from November through March. Yacht and speedboat day cruises from the Marina may feature meals, swim platforms and sundecks, along with sightseeing views of the tree-shaped islands of Palm Jumeirah, the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel and camels loping down the Keepingbeach. to the water, book a dhow lunch cruise on Dubai Creek near Port Rashid with local dishes served to diners as they float past original city sites. Named World’s Leading Cruise Port for the 13th successive time in 2020, Port Rashid, one of the world’s most luxurious cruise terminal complexes, is gradually being replaced by equally lavish but more centrally located Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal. The new gateway, opened in 2021, comprises two terminals with entertainment and leisure spaces and premium retail shopping. Ships carrying more than half a million travelers pass through on voyages around the Persian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula and to and from Africa, the Seychelles and Mauritius, the Holy Land, India, Greece, Europe and the Middle East.
PHOTOS: © IGOR KOVALENKO | DREAMSTIME.COM, © SERGII FIGURNYI | DREAMSTIME.COM, © PHOTOSVIT DREAMSTIME.COM
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Downtown Scene: State DREAMSTIME.COMPHOTO:Street©ALKAN2011
LGBTQ+ visitors get a warm welcome with California cool at most hotels, restaurants and bars across the city, with a special invite at established clubs like Crush Bar & Tap, Wildcat Lounge and iconic Elsies Tavern on De La Guerra Street.
Explore two of Santa Barbara’s most popular restaurant and bar destinations, Funk Zone and downtown, where State Street transformed into a pedestrian entertainment district. A few other sites stand out as destinations worthy of a drive out of town. The Stonehouse at The San Ysidro Ranch sits among grounds as exciting as the fine-dining menu. Or head up the mountain to the Cold Spring Tavern on Highway 154, an old stagecoach stop serving since 1865 and famous for its wild game and tri-tip barbecue. For seafood, watch the sunset at Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach as you feast on the fresh catch and raw bar.
Santa Barbara beckons with California cool. BY GREGORY D. MCCLUNEY
64 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 AFTER 5 | SANTA
The Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail makes for a great tasting experience with more than 20 wineries, plus wine bars on almost every corner. Then visit Julia Childs’ favorite Mexican restaurant, La Super-Rica Taqueria, where she often took her visiting foodie friends.
he tourism community in Santa Barbara has long po sitioned the city as the American Riviera. While some in France might take exception, this coastal city does have much in common with the jewels of the Mediter ranean: a majestic seashore, inviting beaches, the towering San Ynez Mountains and 300 days of sunshine a year. Awe-inspiring sunsets bring cooling winds to the popular alfresco dining scene. Santa Barbara may not be France, but it’s a lot closer. Travelers arrive by air at Santa Barbara Airport, with service from most major American carriers. The city lies less than 100 miles from Los Angeles International Airport, but visitors can also drive up the coast on U.S. 101, checking out the surfers along the way. Santa Barbara’s wharf welcomes cruising passengers from several lines including Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Seabourn CruiseWintersLine.can be cool, windy and wet, but you won’t deal with snow and ice. Visitors and business travelers enjoy the mellow patio and palm bar scene almost year-round.
SeasideBARBARACharm
T he imperial capital of Japan for more than 1,000 years (794–1868), Kyoto remains Japan’s capital of culture. The city of about 1.5 million people boasts more than 1,500 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites and three imperial palaces (including Nijo Castle with its squeaking floorboards designed to warn the ruling shogun of intruders). Not to miss: the stunning Temple of the Golden Pavilion at sunset and Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of vermillion torii gates ascending the forested mountain. Machiya (wooden Japanese townhomes) line many of Kyoto’s well-preserved streets, especially in Gion, the city’s most famous neighborhood. These centuries-old, latticefronted structures once housed craftsmen and merchants. Now they contain restaurants, teahouses, tiny specialty shops, galleries and workshops where skills still pass down through generations. Look for Kiyomizu pottery, red-and-gold lacquerware, indigodyed denim, silk kimono designs and woodblock printing … but with a distinctly modern twist.
Cruise ships dock at Osaka Port, about one hour by taxi from Kyoto.
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Kyoto hums with an atmosphere of heritage and history.
Other neighborhoods to explore: Nishijin, the city’s famed silk-weaving dis trict; Higashiyama, known for its historic temples; Arashiyama, notable for its sky-high bamboo grove; and Fushimi, a saké-brewing district along the willow-lined Horikawa River. Best times to visit are during cherry blossom season (March–May) and in October and November, when the ubiquitous Japanese maples show off their brilliant autumn foliage.
NEIGHBORHOODS | KYOTO
Temples to Teahouses
BY IRENE RAWLINGS Enduring Icons: Temple of the Golden DREAMSTIME.COM©DREAMSTIME.COM,©PHOTOS:(left)kimonowoman(above),PavilionandincolorfulinGionSEANPAVONES35KTMO|
Kyoto is the birthplace of kaiseki — a hyper-seasonal, multicourse, haute cuisine meal. Hanamikoji Street hosts the city’s most celebrated restaurants. Many small eateries, like renowned 12-seat Kyoto-Gion Nanba, book months in advance. Food tours offer a popular alternative. Stroll the lanternlit streets, stopping in small bars, hole-in-the-wall ramen joints and amiable little eateries. Food Tours Japan offers several in Kyoto. Many visitors to Japan place seeing a geisha top of the list, and Gion’s narrow cobblestone lanes prove the best place to spot kimono-clad geishas flitting like brightly colored butterflies on their way to an evening’s ap pointment. If you want more than a glimpse, visit a traditional teahouse to enjoy ochaya-asobi (teahouse play). You can make arrangements through Weft Hospitality, which specializes in unique experiences like traditional tea ceremonies and private meditations with a Zen master. Or book a geisha makeover, complete with beautiful kimono, porcelain-white makeup and a photo shoot. (Find details at kyoto-maiko.com.)
Cruise along the coastline with kids in tow and stop at one of the many cities for a litany of outdoor activities, sightseeing and adventures. French Riviera.
Nothing compares to arriving by sea at any of the ports in the fabled Provence region, the birthplace of joie de vivre. Start your journey in Barcelona and choose a five- to 11-night cruise up the coast with stops in Marseille, Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Nice and other ports aboard Adventure Life’s luxurious small ships on one of its luxury French Riviera cruises for 2022/2023. Say “Oui” to Royal Caribbean’s Côte d’Azur cruises, calling on cities like Nice, Menton and Èze-sur-Mer.
2022
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F rom the brilliant sea and sun to history and nature, the French Riviera — known as the Côte d’Azur, or the Azure Coast, due to its location along the sparkling blue Mediterranean — makes a lovely area to visit with family. The French Riviera comprises 46 coastal municipalities in southeastern France, including the popular cities of Nice, Antibes, Cannes, Saint-Tropez and SaintJean-Cap-Ferrat, as well as Monte Carlo in Monaco. While the area lures celebrities, jet-setters and superyachts, the French Riviera also proves one of the best places in France to visit with kids, as it abounds with familyfriendly activities and offers the perfect city beach vacation.
FRIENDS & FAMILY | FRENCH RIVIERA Coastal Charms: (Left to right) Mirror Water Fountain inside Parc du Paillon, Nice; Saint-Tropez, and Old Town Nice street scene ©PHOTOS:MARCORUBINO DREAMSTIME.COM,| © ALEH VARANISHCHA DREAMSTIME .COM, © AZURECHINA | DREAMSTIME.COM By Land and By Sea Discover fantastic family fun along the
BY JARONE ASHKENAZI
Experience all the amazing coastline offers with France and French Riviera itineraries from Celebrity Cruises, or discover the meaning of oh là là on a journey with Azamara. While on land, take a deep dive into what makes this region so spectacular, with plenty of activities to ensure you and your kids make the most of your vacation. Let’s begin in Nice, the beating heart of the French Riviera and a good base for exploring the coast. Here you’ll find an easily walkable town center and historic sites — explore Old Town’s narrow, winding streets; artist galleries; and the flower market — plus cute playgrounds where the kids can run around. Take them skateboarding or roller skating on the
37 Promenade des Anglais, $$$$Nice INFO TO GO For visitors not arriving by cruise ship, Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, the largest airport on the French Riviera for passenger travel, boasts more than 120 direct flights to destinations worldwide. Transit the 15 miles between the airport and Nice via a direct tramway link, bus or a flat-rate taxi. Express trains also connect Nice and other French and major European cities.
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DINING
The Michelin-starred restau rant focuses on local seafood in an airy setting designed with Art Deco flair. Its dishes are just as stunning as the plateware and design, while its signature “pearl in a blownsugar shell” dessert is a must.
LODGING
Domaine du Mas de Pierre Hotel Resort & Spa Located close to Cap Ferrat Zoo and Marineland, the 5-star Relais & Châteaux property offers luxurious comfort in a relaxed atmosphere, along with a kids club, children’s play area, cribs, highchairs and babysitting services.
2320 Route des Serres, SaintPaul-de-Vence$$$
48 Av. Henri Dunant, Grasse $$$$ Le Restaurant at La Colombe d’Or
La Bastide Saint Antoine Savor fine dining and stunning views in a refined setting, sur rounded by lime and chestnut trees and overlooking the bay of Cannes. Celebrated French chef Jacques Chibois presents a thoughtful menu highlighting bold flavors and aromas.
La Colombe d’Or Hotel, Place du Général de Gaulle, SaintPaul-de-Vence$$$–$$$$ Restaurant La Passagère
Hôtel Belles Rives, 33 Blvd. Edouard Baudoin, Antibes $$$$
2 Chemin du Chastelas, Gassin $$$$ Le Negresco Epitomizing French Riviera culture and vibes, art-filled Le Negresco ensures easy family stays in its spacious suites and deluxe rooms and treats kids like royalty. Spend the day at the Beach Club overlooking Baie des Anges, then unwind at Michelin-starred Le Chantecler or chic brasserie La Rotonde. Babysitting available.
The intimate world-famous hotel set on the edge of the medieval town of Saint-Paulde-Vence has presented an exquisite menu for decades, from fresh produce to Pro vençal classics. Choose from seating indoors, a private dining room and the pictur esque garden terrace.
Le Mas de Chastelas Just a five-minute walk from the beach, the legendary hotel offers a range of family-friendly rooms and suites. Enjoy the heated pool, tennis courts, pitching green and gourmet restaurant or take the shuttle to Saint-Tropez beach clubs and town. Babysitting services available.
Encounter:Close Seal greeting
DREAMSTIME.COMTATYANAPHOTO:Marinelandofsupervisiontheatrainerat©GUNDAR
68 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 famous Promenade des Anglais before heading to Promenade du Paillon to romp around the wonderful waterfall fountains. By all means, soak up some sun on the beach, but bring along water shoes or sandals to protect everyone’s feet from the pebbles — large, flat, gray stones called galets To reward the kids for a fun-filled day, a visit to Confiserie Florian sweet shop and factory will put them in candy heaven. Presenting an old-town vision of Mediterranean beauty, Antibes offers a stunning spot to watch luxury yachts coming and going from the marina. Find a prime viewpoint — and also a cool spot for kids — at Fort Carré overlooking the sea. Don’t miss a visit to Marineland, the largest marine animal park in Europe, known for its abundance of sea life and dolphin shows. To introduce a little culture to your kids while on vacation, stop at Grimaldi Castle and Museum. Along with its beautiful outdoor terraces and turrets, it displays art in an approachable and non-stuffy manner. Like nearly all other stops on the French Riviera, the beaches in Antibes feature easy access from the city. If your kids enjoy being on the water, book a daytrip sail to explore the surround ing coastal area. Now to more fun activities to fill up any kid’s French Riviera bucket list.
Azur Park, located in Gassin, just outside of Saint-Tropez, will amuse the whole family with attractions, rides, games and shows. From two 18-hole miniature golf courses to trampolines, bumper boats and high-adrenaline rides like Sky Rider and Ejection Seat, this place has something for every age. And after an adventure-filled day, on-site La Rôtisserie offers a pleasant and festive setting to unwind and enjoy homemade delicacies. Another day, another amusement park: Head to Le Village des Fous (The Village of Fools), a two-acre leisure park just 30 minutes west of Nice, where kids can play like crazy in bouncing areas, slides and water games, treetop adventure courses and more.
Immerse the family in nature at La Réserve Biologique des Monts d’Azur, where guides lead you through the unspoiled countryside to view wildlife (deer, wild boar and bison). It even has a park for picnicking plus overnight accommodations in ecolodges and a little mansion.
Spend the day at Base Nature Frejus, an ex-naval base transformed into an outdoor playground along the beach … great for biking and roller skating and featuring one of the best sandy beaches of the Côte d’Azur for kids. Last but certainly not least, if you want your kids to broaden their horizons, Éco’Parc Mougins offers science exhibitions, workshops and interactive touch and learn areas, with free access for kids to learn and explore. a girl under
Adventurous kids who want to do more than play at the beach will have a blast caving at Vallée du Loup, just 50 minutes from Nice, Cannes or Antibes and open to ages 6 and up. A guide leads visitors on an expe dition of a cave system to see huge limestone plateaus. Or head to Le Bois des Lutins, perfect for a half-day of fun for your active kids. Taking center stage, the tree village presents a suspended adventure course with bridges, slides and more. For kids who like to bounce, Ludiparc outdoor jump and trampoline park also features a spacious green area for a lovely picnic in the country. Enjoyable for toddlers and older kids alike, this spot offers a break from the sea and the sun.
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Sacred Treasures: Trinity College, home to the Book of Kells (above); and Christ Church Cathedral (left) PHOTOS: © CHON KIT LEONG | DREAMSTIME.COM, © IAN WHITWORTH DREAMSTIME
SEPTEMBER 2022
A small, boisterous, historic capital spread along a craggy coastline, Dublin lords above the Liffey River on Ireland’s eastern coast. Charismatic and mysterious, composed of ancient, gray, pitted-stone buildings (as well as contemporary high-rises), it emanates the power of its literary roots, medieval past, Viking layers, Georgian sophistica tion and profound pub culture in a harmonic mélange. Chic shops, night clubs, restaurants and galleries line cobbled streets, while castle walls hold revered sites. Mountains, meadows and famous gardens lie just outside its borders. Wander parks, such as Stephen’s Green. Peruse St. Patrick’s Cathedral (where Jonathan Swift is buried) and Christ Church Cathedral. Be awed by moody Dublin Castle, and see the ornate Book of Kells at Trinity College. For a grand finale, swig a beer after touring the world-famous Guinness Storehouse. Whiskey lovers will want to take a nip at Jameson Distillery as well. Befriend a Dubliner when you book a friendly and informative excursion with ToursbyLocals, which matches resident tour guides with trav elers. In Dublin, the range of tours includes outings such as an Irish Literature Tour, The Pubs and the Past Tour and the Jewish History of Dublin. The Museum Walking Tour and five-hour (Nearly) All of Dublin Tour are popular options at Dublin-based Dublin Tour Guide, specialists in private walking tours. Consider cruising to Dublin on Viking Cruises’ 15-day British Isles Explorer jaunt, which goes from Bergen to London, stopping at Dublin on Day 11. Shore excursions include various city walking tours, a local farm visit, Irish jig lessons in a pub, cooking classes in nearby County Wicklow, castle and distillery tours and more.
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TOURS | DUBLIN
Immerse in the spirit of Ireland’s charismatic capital.
70 globaltravelerusa.com F or centuries people have arrived in Ireland by sea, so it makes sense you’ve been hankering to take a cruise that drops its anchor in Dublin. After leaving your ship for the day or ending your journey in this alluring city, fortify yourself like a mollycoddled Irish aristocrat from the 18th century at The Merrion. This distinctly urbane Irish hotel, composed of four historic townhouses in the heart of Georgian Dublin, features polished marble halls, gold-rimmed mirrors and Flemish tapestries. It reflects the past while exuding a contemporary mood, a blend of old and new, much like Dublin’s ever-progressive spirit. Begin your tour of the city with The Merrion’s unforgettable Art Afternoon Tea, a sustaining, indulgent experience that showcases the hotel’s world-class 19th- and 20th-century Irish art collection with pastries inspired by their own artwork. (There’s even a Vegan Afternoon Tea option.)
Disembark in Dublin
|
BY BECCA HENSLEY
The open road is calling you! Grab your fa vorite travel partner and hit the open road, exploring places such as Ireland, Georgia, Lithuania and more.
Hong Kong’s M+ is one of the largest contem museums in the world. to complete first stage of with and have
Learn how to sustain joy from happiness experts in Bali. The Dorchester
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This summer brought delayed and canceled flights, crowded airports and long TSA lines. For affluent leisure and business travelers in the Northeast, however, flying on Tailwind Air to destinations like New York City, Boston, Provincetown and the Hamptons has never been easier.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport of fers new service for customers who are blind or have low vision.
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Don’t let summer pass by without spending the day catching some rays and relaxing by a luxurious resort pool.
Now that people are going back to work and attending events again, La Concha Resorts offers the ultimate corporate retreat.
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PHOTO: © VOMO ISLAND FIJI
ruising into the port of Suva, nearly 5,000 nautical miles from Los Angeles and more than 2,100 from Sydney, there is something simply magical about arriving by cruise ship in Fiji.
Multiple cruise lines, such as Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Princess Cruises, call into port in Fiji on itineraries departing from destinations like Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne and Los Angeles.
Under the Sea
Let Fiji’s swirl of soft corals and tropical Zen soothe your soul. BY TERRY WARD
And for travelers with time, a South Pacific itinerary with those cruise lines, among others, offers shore leave enjoying the soft coral capital of the world.
C
One of the world’s most spectacularly beautiful and remote tropical archipelagos, it boasts unparalleled coral reefs teeming with fish and people who personify the warmth of their flower-filled corner of the planet.
Just donning a snorkel, mask and fins on Fiji’s pristine reefs brings into view what might be the most sensational underwater scene of your life (picture a neon-colored world of purple, green and pink corals populated by a rainbow Simply Sublime: Vomo Island, Fiji
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DINING Byblos ‘A Taste of Lebanon’ With a waterfront terrace at Radisson Blu Resort, this surprising Lebanese restaurant, opened in 2021, serves incredible grilled meat platters, hummus, fattoush and baba ganoush that are best shared for a taste of everything. Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island, 69F8+F9P, Resort Drive, Denarau Island, $$–$$$Fiji Indigo Indian and Asian Restaurant A waterfront go-to in Port Denarau near Nadi, this long-standing favorite is known for excellent dishes that range from biryanis and butter chicken to chili mud crab. Port Denarau, Denarau Island, Nadi, Fiji $$ Tiko’sRestaurantFloating You’re afloat on a moored boat off Suva at this touristy but fun restaurant dishing up lobster, tiger shrimp, coral trout and other delicious seafood dishes from local waters. VC6C+2M9, Stinson Parade Road, Suva, Fiji $$–$$$
PHOTOS: © VOMO ISLAND FIJI
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 73 Tropical Treasures: VOMO Meke-Mojie (top), and kayaking in the clear waters (bottom)
LODGING Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji Sleep in an authentic (and ultra-luxe) thatched Fijian bure at this favorite family resort on Vanua Levu, known for its kids club (each child is assigned their own nanny) and scuba diving within nearby Namena Marine Reserve. Lesiaceva Point Road, Savusavu, Vanua Levu, Fiji $$$$ Six Senses Fiji For a wellness retreat like no other, a quick boat ride takes you from Denarau on Viti Levu to this private island escape on Malolo Island with just 24 villas and suites. The resort’s layered approach to wellness runs through its spa, fitness and culinary offerings. Malolo Island, Fiji $$$$ VOMO Island Fiji Six luxury beachfront residences with their own private swimming pools and hillside family villas with sweeping sea views are among the accommoda tions at this exclusive allinclusive resort on a private island in the Mamanuca group. Vomo Island, Fiji $$$$
INFO TO GO Fiji Airways, the country’s national carrier, offers non-stop flights to Nadi International Airport (Fiji’s main airport, located on Viti Levu) from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu, Auckland, Tokyo and Sydney. The carrier offers onward domestic flights within Fiji, too. Turtle Airways flies seaplane transfers to private island resorts. Hotel guests can pre-arrange transfers with their resorts.
For a longer stay (most ports of call are just a day or two), however, plan to fly into Fiji and make time for island-hopping in one of the most sublime tropical destinations on earth. Wherever you go in this archipelago, locals bellow out to you with a friendly welcome (“Bula!”), and authentic adventures await. Only about a third of Fiji’s 333 islands are inhabited. And while most visitors settle into resorts on the main islands of Viti Levu or Vanua Levu or arrive by boat or seaplane to private islands just offshore, having more time here allows you to venture farther afield to the garden island of Taveuni or to Kadavu, Fiji’s fourth-largest island, for snorkeling or diving among the incredible soft coral gardens of the Great Astrolabe Reef.
Prefer adventures on land? You’ll find no shortage of those in Fiji, whether you head off for a whitewater rafting excursion along the Upper Navua River on Viti Levu, settle in to marvel as members of the fire-walking Sawua tribe tread across white-hot rocks on Beqa island or join a kava ceremony during a village visit (a common offering from both island guest houses and resorts) to try Fiji’s mildly narcotic national beverage.
For traveling families, Fiji resorts often include complimentary nanny services and kids clubs for young kids, as well as teen amenities, as standard offerings. That gives parents time to head offshore for scuba diving or deep-sea fishing, or just to settle in for a decadent treatment at a resort spa, where traditional deep-tissue Fijian Bobo massages often appear on the menu. Giving back can be part of your vacation here, too. Case in point: At Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji on Vanua Levu, you can join the resort’s resident marine biologist to plant corals or learn how giant clam stocks are rehabilitated to protect the surrounding reefs. At Six Senses Fiji, several programs support Rise Beyond the Reef, an organization benefiting local village women. If there’s an island chain where a family, couple or solo traveler can choose their own tropical adventure, fabulous Fiji is it.
Gifts from the Sea:
74 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 assortment of reef fish).
COUSTEAUPHOTOS:marineSinghbiologistanddivingislandCousteauJean-MichelResort(topleft),scuba(topright),residentmarineJohnnyteachingaboutlife©JEAN-MICHELRESORT
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76 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 BUCKET LIST | CRUISING THE AMAZON River Ride: The threedeckedboatwooden Tucano PHOTO: © NATUREAMAZONTOURS
Acity of 2 million people sinks into the river. Less than an hour earlier we were stuck there in heavy traffic. We finally arrived at the riv erside, where the three-decked wooden boat Tucano awaited. We transferred to it and cast off, heading upstream. The near bank became dense with greenery.
Pairs of scarlet macaws flapped over us. Insects and birds and howler monkeys provided a natural soundtrack above the rhythmic throb of the engine. Manaus disap peared in our wake. This was everything we imagined of the Amazon, though in fact we had set off slightly upstream from that great river. We were on the Rio Negro — the Black River. Decaying vegetation stains the water with tannins, giving it the look of black tea. The Amazon itself is silty and resembles milky coffee. The two join at Manaus, Brazil, and flow side by side for several miles before blending. With a maximum of 18 guests, Tucano is modest by Amazonian standards. (The Iberostar Grand Amazon, for instance, carries 148; and 2,000-passenger cruise ships voyage the 1,000 miles upstream from the Atlantic Ocean to Manaus.) In contrast to its larger, modern rivals, Tucano sports the wood-paneled ambience of the late 19th century, when this style of boat was favored by Brazil’s rubber barons, among the richest people on the planet. This felt like a different era in more ways than one.
Uncharted Waters Venture deep into the remote wilds of the Amazon.
BY RICHARD NEWTON INFO TO GO Domestic and inter national flights arrive at Eduardo taxi.byhotelsTransfersdowntown9InternationalGomesAirport,milesnorthofManaus.tomajorareavailablesharedbusorby
Monkeys proved an exception. Time and again during our week-long trip we attracted the curiosity of howler monkeys, squirrel monkeys, monk sakis and tiny tamarins. They bounced from branch to branch above us on the trails or tracked the progress of the boat from the river side canopy. Periodically we’d spot what appeared to be a mildewed bundle of rags high in the trees and recognized a sloth. Even in the river we saw abundant life. We often spied the eyes and snouts of caimans (relatives of alligators) drifting in the shallows, and on one memorable occa sion, pink river dolphins accompanied the boat for a time. We also had the opportunity to grapple with one of the world’s most feared fish. One afternoon we cast fishing lines baited with meat into the water. Before long we were hauling out red-bellied piranhas. The guides were on hand to unhook them, skill fully avoiding razor-sharp teeth that can bite through metal. We ate some of our catch for dinner. For much of the voyage we were the only boat on any given stretch of the river. That began to change when we returned downstream. The traffic increased, and we saw boats loaded with families as well as motor yachts, ferries and water taxis. The skyline of Manaus rose out of the water ahead of us, and then our dormant cellphones started to ping with seven days of missed messages. Good as it was to be back among the familiar trappings of modern life, there had been something revitalizing about our time in the rain forest. And we couldn’t help viewing with alarm the logging barges heading downstream, carrying the forest away tree by tree.
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One thing we quickly discovered beyond the hermetic cocoon of the Tucano was a rain forest is not the most comfortable of places. It was humid and stinky and full of creatures — some large, some microscopic — that bite or sting. We soon resigned ourselves to having our skin increasingly covered with itchy insect bites. It could have been worse. On our initial forest trek, the guide rushed to grab my sleeve, stopping me mid-step. If my foot had reached the ground, it would have landed on a fer-de-lance, South America’s most dangerous snake. It lay coiled and camouflaged in the leaf litter, ready to strike in defense. We took photos, then skirted safely around it and resumed our trek. From then on, I let the guide lead the way. The Amazon rain forest is full of wild life, but the nature of the habitat means encounters are usually fleeting. You hear a noise or see a flick of movement within the thick vegetation but rarely more than that.
As the city receded, WiFi and cellphone coverage dropped away. For much of the next week, we were out of reach of the 21st century. Whenever we made guided excursions on foot into the rain forest, even the boat was left behind, and we experienced the Amazon in its raw, primordial glory.
In the Wild: (Top to bottom) Scarlet macaws, squirrel monkeys and DREAMSTIME.COMWOJTKOWSKI©DREAMSTIME.COM,©|PHOTOS:caiman©KLOMSKYDREAMSTIME.COM,MIROSLAVLISKA|CEZARY|
FORHERITAGE©PHOTOS:inDaphneher(left)cabinJonesStephanieonthebalconyandwithdaughter,Clark,AntarcticaCULTURALALLIANCETOURISM,INC.
Jones hopes other cruise lines will follow AmaWaterways and Hurti gruten’s lead, understand the spending power of the Black travel leisure market and become intentional about investing in marketing to Black travelers.
Jones will also be on the recently launched AmaWaterways’ Soulful Epicurean Experience on the River, a celebration of Black history and culture to connect Black travelers with each other and international desti nations with African history. The cruise sails in summer 2023 from Arles to Lyon on the Colors of Provence itinerary aboard AmaKristina. Guests can learn about the cultural history of Marseille and enjoy the South of France along the Rhône on tours of the region’s jazz, food and wine. The offering includes an excursion honoring Josephine Baker, the first Black woman inducted into France’s Pantheon mausoleum.
78 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 DIVERSITY
In the future, expect more Black scientists as lecturers on Hurtigruten’s ships, more expedition leaders of color and opportunities to learn about Black heroes on signature itineraries. You may see some board members on Hurtigruten’s West Africa cruises launching this fall.
On Board:
Cruise lines seek to connect with diverse communities of travelers. BY LAVANYA SUNKARA
I n early 2022 Hurtigruten Expeditions hosted a group of all-Black travel media professionals on its renowned battery hybrid ship MS Roald Amundsen, on a journey to Antarctica. This included six influential leaders who became members of the expedition cruise line’s historic Black Traveler Advisory Board “Our small delegation consisting of Black travel advisory board members, our plus ones and a couple of BIPOC [Black, Indigenous and people of color] journalists were the largest number of people of color on a Hurtigruten cruise ever, and maybe the most diverse group to ever visit the White Continent,” said Stephanie Jones, founder and CEO, Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance, Inc.; founder, National Blacks in Travel & Tourism Collaborative; and chair, Black Travel Advisory Board, Hurti grutenThisExpeditions.industry-first board was created to provide the company with the tools to better reach communities traditionally left out of strategic market ing campaigns. Its aims: to create “access for Black travelers, and creating equitable opportunities for Black professionals, workers and minority contractors to work with the brand,” said Jones. During her voyage, the mostly Filipino staff loved seeing people with dark skin. “We enjoyed in teracting with them daily, not as servants or workers, but as human beings that shared cultural commonalities with us.”
Broadening Horizons
Promenade:Port Galataport İstanbul
A s the new Galataport İstanbul transforms the historical city harbor into a world-class cruise port, it also creates a robust tourist destination. The port opens the promenade to public use for the first time in almost two centuries while still offer ing a healthy and safe environment for culture, arts, shopping and dining. The transformation of the coastline of Karaköy makes it one of the best promenades in the city.
The terminal design meets the needs and expectations of every type and class of cruise ship as well as every type of passenger. As the entry and exit point for travelers visiting the country, its terminal leaves a lasting impression, following a modern approach that reflects the historical value of the port as well as the culture of the surrounding districts, including Karaköy and Beyoğlu. The concept is based on ancient cisterns, specifi cally those of the Roman and Byzantine empires. While in İstanbul, travelers can visit historical landmarks such as Basilica Cistern and Cistern of Philoxenos.
PORT UPDATE
Galataport İstanbul delivers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.
In addition to creating a world-class cruise ship port, the revitalized waterfront neighborhood will feature stores for travelers to browse, delicious dining, and cultural and arts experiences, as well as the new, 176-room The Peninsula Istanbul. Given The Peninsula brand’s excellent service, luxury, comfort and its loyal clientele, its first property in Türkiye will surely boost the value of Galataport İstanbul.
BY MARY MELNICK
PHOTO: © SENER DAGASAN DREAMSTIME.COM|
While docked at port, make sure to take advantage of all the historical and cultural experiences of this fascinating city.
Galataport stands apart from other cruise destinations as the world’s first underground cruise port terminal. The terminal’s hatch system, the first of its kind, separates the customs and security areas when ships are in port, creating a temporary customs area and keeping the promenade open to the public. The underground terminal ensures a comfortable and safe travel experience for both cruise passengers and crews. The new structure, much larger than the previous one, offers the latest technologies and includes an underground parking space for about 2,400 cars.
SEPTEMBER 2022 globaltravelerusa.com 79 Mega Port
Hurtigruten plans to have its first zero-emissions ships ready to sail by 2030, adding to its already demonstrated efforts toward decarboniza tion which include the 2019 introduction of MS Roald Amundsen, the first battery hybrid-powered cruise ship in the world. Since then, two additional battery hybrid-powered Hurtigruten ships — MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Otto Sverdrup — also set sail. By 2023, upgrades to seven ships in the fleet will result in a 25 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and an 80 percent reduction in NOx emissions. What’s more, the brand’s Norwegian Coastal Express ships currently produce zero emissions while in port when utilizing shore power connectivity.
The topic of decarbonization joined the zeitgeist, and the In ternational Maritime Organization stated its commitment to join with carbon reduction objectives. Industry-wide, endeavors include implementation of new technologies while continuing the research and development of even better ones, an increase in energy efficiencies, and a shift to alternative and cleaner fuels that include the use of biofuels and Liquified Natural Gas. Cruise lines are on board. Carnival Corp. — home to brands Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, AIDA Cruises, Cunard and P&O Cruises in the United Kingdom and Australia — works to meet goals set by the IMO via responsible energy management and the introduction of new technology to ship operations.
80 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 Shipshape and Sustainable Cruise lines set goals to advance decarbonization. BY DEBRA BOKUR ECOTOURISM Cleaner Cruising: Viking Mississippi PHOTO: © VIKING
A s the issue of climate change increasingly overlaps with the world of travel, the cruise industry responds with pledges to protect the planet and waters that provide scaffolding for cruise commerce. A report by Cruise Lines Internation al Association published in April states, worldwide, cruise lines work toward goals that include a 40 percent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and net-zero carbon cruising by 2050.
The design of Viking’s fleet of ocean vessels (which feature energy-efficient hulls plus propeller and rudder arrangements and engines with heat recovery systems) enables ships to achieve the best Energy Efficiency Design Index rating in their class, topping IMO requirements by nearly 20 percent. Viking’s ships are also the world’s first newly built vessels featuring closed-loop exhaust cleaning systems specifically designed to remove and safely dispose of pollutants. The company’s Expedition-class ships exceed IMO standards by almost 36 percent. And among the brand’s river ships, Viking Mississippi boasts environmental features such as sophisticated exhaust scrubbing systems that substantially reduce both noise and emissions.
The use of fuel cells to generate all of its power when in port will allow Silversea Cruises’ Silver Nova to be emissions-free during these periods. Lindblad Expeditions declared its intention to be completely carbon neutral through its partnership with South Pole, one of the world’s foremost developers in the field of international emission reduc tion projects. All these efforts will help the industry navigate toward greener, cleaner cruising.
Win-Win Sports-themed cruises score big points with passengers.
BY KATIE MCELVEEN
PHOTO:Amsterdam.©DENNIS VAN DE WATER DREAMSTIME.COM
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T here are a lot of reasons to love cruising, and for many travelers, the huge array of fun activities, food and experiences remains the big attraction. But what if you want to focus on, say, golf or hanging out with sports legends from your favorite teams? You can do that, too, thanks to an abundance of sports-themed voyages on the horizon. Even better, most such cruises abound with perks like tickets and exclusive access to sold-out events, celebrity meet-and-greets, social gatherings with other fans and the chance to try cool new tech advances.
Sports enthusiasts who would rather spectate than participate have a world of options, as well. Windstar Cruises’ Grand Prix voyage not only takes fans to the Monaco Grand Prix races but also into the pits with a Formula One expert. Passengers also enjoy themed events, Q&A sessions with a former driver and lots of swag.
Chartered vessels offer a way for superfans to spend time with the stars of their sport; upcoming cruises include five days with professional wrestling star Chris Jericho aboard Norwegian Pearl and a four-night, player-studded “tailgate at sea” for fans of the San Francisco 49ers. In partnership with Butterfield & Robinson, Uniworld offers a Rhine River cruise biking tour from Basel to
Uniworld Cruises, for instance, partnered with Butterfield & Robinson to offer cycling itineraries on select sailings along the Rhine and Danube rivers. Daily cycle excursions not only showcase spectacular scenery but also offer extras like handlebar-mounted tablets preloaded with route maps, expert guides and a support vehicle.Uniworld isn’t the only cruise line to partner with experts. Working with PerryGolf, Azamara offers golf cruises to 25 countries each year including Japan, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland and Saudi Arabia. Golfers arrive at each course to find their carts or caddies ready to go; an onboard manager coordinates details. July sailings offer the added bonus of two days at the British Open, the oldest golf tournament in the world. Another option is Kalos Golf, leading golf cruises in Normandy, the Caribbean, the British Isles and other destinations on a wide array of chartered ships.
SPORTS Cycle in Style:
PREVIEW 82 globaltravelerusa.com SEPTEMBER 2022 Class Act Guide Join us next month for Global Traveler’s annual Class Act Guide, focused on what’s new and exciting in the world of aviation. The Class Act Guide focuses on updates on the first- and business-class cabins of airlines around the globe. Other features in this issue include Premium Economy Update, Conversation with an Air Traf fic Controller, Supersonic Flight , An Inside Look at Pilot Training, What’s Next for Aircraft Seat Design, Travel Apps & Gadgets to Make You an Even Savvier Traveler and Hotel Openings 2023. PHOTO: © NATALIA OKOROKOVA | DREAMSTIME.COM
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