Select Traveler November/December 2022

THE MAGAZINE FOR BANK, ALUMNI AND CHAMBER TRAVEL PLANNERS

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ROCKIES NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

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T R A V E L E R VOL.30 NO.6

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

12

Winter in the Rockies

BY SCOTT MARKEWITZ

contents checking in:

toolbox:

known for:

going places:

SONYA NASH

TRAVEL APPS

HAUNTED HOTELS

TRAVEL POSITIVITY

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MAC T. LACY CHARLES A. PRESLEY BRIAN JEWELL HERBERT SPARROW DONIA SIMMONS ASHLEY RICKS RENA BAER KYLE ANDERSON BRYCE WILSON SARAH SECHRIST

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ON THE COVER: A team of horses pulls travelers on sleigh rides through Idaho’s scenic winter landscape. Photo courtesy Visit Idaho.

22 KYLE ANDERSON

859.253.0455

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING

KYLE@GROUPTRAVELLEADER.COM

Founder and Publisher Partner VP & Executive Editor Senior Writer Creative Director Graphic Designer/Circulation Copy Editor Director of Sales and Marketing Advertising Account Manager Controller

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Louisiana’s NORTHSHORE

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Nashville’s

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Cruising

NOTEWORTHY

SPECIAL SECTION

Select Traveler, the Magazine for Bank, Alumni and Chamber Travel Planners, is published quarterly by The Group Travel Leader, Inc., 301 East High Street, Lexington, Kentucky 40507 and is distributed free of charge to qualified travel program directors throughout the United States. All other travel suppliers, including tour operators, destinations, attractions, transportation companies, hotels, restaurants and other travel-related companies, may subscribe to Select Traveler by sending a check for $49 for one year to: Select Traveler, Circulation Department, 301 East High Street, Lexington, Kentucky 40507. Copyright The Group Travel Leader, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of editorial or graphic content in any manner without the written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

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affinity M A T T E R S

A

shley Taylor has been a real find for Select

getic spin on anything she writes.

Once or twice, I’ve seen a layout of

magazine.

her column that did not include a photo

Many of you have

of Ashley. That doesn’t make sense, so we

met Ashley at our

always add one. Even her photos have a

Traveler

conferences, which she almost always

spark about them. I can only imagine how much fun groups have when she

attends as a travel planner.

takes them somewhere.

She has been involved in

I had the pleasure of

creating and managing travel for bank groups

attending one of Select

for years.

Traveler’s OnSite familiarization tours when

A couple of years ago, we asked her if

Ashley

she’d like to write a

Fifteen or so of us went

column for the maga-

to Egypt with Aventura found something off the beat-

been invaluable. She’s writthings like tipping during trips, how to

along.

World. A few of us usually

zine and her insights have ten from personal experience about

came

en path to check out, and you could count on Ashley to be there with us.

find solo time on a group trip and how

I hope you’ll take the time to read

to best enjoy travel with a companion.

her columns. They help Select Traveler

She always offers practical ideas that

magazine illustrate how much fun exists

are easy to apply. Because Ashley has

throughout the world for fans of group

a big personality, she also puts an ener-

travel.

Mac Lacy — Publisher Email me anytime with your thoughts at maclacy@grouptravelleader.com.

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checking in W I T H

S O N Y A

N A S H

SONYA NASH Director of Group and Experiential Sales and Marketing

Sonya Nash was instrumental in spearheading the Quilt Gardens project, which has become a signature Northern Indiana attraction.

ELKHART COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU The Elkhart County, Indiana Convention and Visitors Bureau represents the communities of Elkhart, Goshen, Middlebury, Nappanee, Bristol and Wakarusa, which are known for their Amish culture. Its signature group experiences include the ABA “Best of the Best” Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail and the popular Brown Bag Backroads Tour.

BIRTHPLACE: Warsaw, Indiana EDUCATION: Indiana University EMPLOYMENT HISTORY: Nash worked at Amish Acres Historic Farms and Theatre in Nappanee for 13 years total. When Visit South Bend/Mishawaka had a position open, she went to work there for three years. When given the chance to move closer to home, she made the move to the Elkhart County, Indiana Convention and Visitors Bureau, where she has worked for 23 years.

FAMILY: Nash has been married to her husband, Richard, for 16 years.

HOBBIES: Nash is an amateur baker and loves to read and travel. When she and her husband first got married, they created a travel bucket list and each chose 10 things to do or see in each destination. They have worked their way through that list and a second list. They’re now on their third series of bucket list adventures.

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PHOTOS COURTESY ELKHART CO. CVB

ELKHART, INDIANA

B Y RE B E CCA T RE ON

S

onya Nash grew up on an Indiana farm, the youngest of four children and the only girl. She was also the first person in her family to attend college, getting a business degree from Indiana University at Bloomington. Approaching graduation, she started interviewing with companies like Apple and IBM, but she says she realized the field was not as exciting as she had hoped.

“I was doing interviews my senior year and sitting across from these people who were so boring, and I thought, ‘I don’t want to be like them,’” said Nash. “So I came home without a job, which as you can imagine was pretty interesting for my parents, being the only one to go to a four-year college and get a degree and

come home without a job.”

During summers, Nash had worked at Amish Acres, a nearby attraction on the National Register of Historic Places that was very popular with groups. She started at the soda fountain, moved to the bakery, then became the assistant kitchen manager.

“It was my 21st birthday, I had just graduated from college, and I’m making sage dressing up to my elbows in the kitchen, and I thought, ‘Boy, you’ve really made it, way to go,’” she said. “But three months later, their salesperson walked out, and I volunteered for the job because it got me out of the kitchen. And guess what? I discovered a love of developing itineraries and working with groups.”

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Clockwise from left: Nash with a tour operator friend; gathering with family at Christmas; cruising with her husband, Richard

Bringing in the Buses Amish Acres hadn’t done much in the arena of motorcoach travel, but Nash was tasked with figuring out how to bring buses to the area, so she went to the American Bus Association’s Marketplace when it was held in Indianapolis. There she not only figured out how to draw more tourists to Indiana’s Amish country but also fell in love with coordinating group travel.

“I haven’t missed an ABA Marketplace since that first one in the ’80s — I unknowingly fell into this industry and found this passion that matches my personality,” said Nash. “There weren’t many travel and tourism degrees back then, especially in Indiana. I discovered a different path for myself.”

Nash was soon creating itineraries for groups that included backroads tours, meal experiences, activities, theater reservations, lodging and more. After realizing she was working too many hours, she took a position in sales at Visit South Bend/ Mishawaka, where she worked for three years. When a managerial position opened at the Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau, she leapt at the chance to work closer to home and promote Amish culture. She’s been helping groups get the most out of their visit to the area for 23 years now.

“It’s constantly working with tour planners and paying attention to trends and building new experiences and listening,” said Nash. “Our communities offer a very rural, authentic cultural experience. What I’ve noticed over the years is that as our society is more tech-driven, the more interested people are to get back to an original American experience and reflect and relate to people who live and celebrate life on a daily basis.”

An Insider’s Perspective Throughout the region, it’s easy for people to miss the best things that only locals know about because of the community relationships they’ve built.

“Nowadays, people can get online and go anyplace, but what makes a destination special for a group is the behind-the-scenes special arrangements, made by myself and other destination leaders with their destination partners,” said Nash. “We work with the soap maker, the coffee roaster and the winery to really tell their stories in an authentic way and bundle those experiences and make them special.”

Nash notes that she’s seen major changes in the group travel arena in the past few decades — where it used to be primarily seniors, now people of all ages not only want to travel together because of the camaraderie and safety but also because they appreciate the special access and exclusive experiences that come with travel in groups.

“I love that I can provide unusual experiences that connect with people’s passions and leave them with a greater appreciation and understanding of a place,” she said. “It’s really rewarding.”

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faves DESTINATION

1. The Polynesian Village, Island of Oahu, Hawaii: “Offers the most amazing immersive cultural experience. The VIP package is well worth the fee and truly showcases different Polynesian cultures from around the world.”

2. Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida: “Truly is the most ‘Magical Place on Earth,’ I grew up visiting this attraction annually with my parents, and it has so many great memories for me of fun, fantasy, festivity and enchantment.”

3. Italy: “The pizza and pasta, the cobblestone streets, the history, the art, the gelato and pastries.

From Pompeii to the Amalfi Coast, from Rome to Tuscany, it’s all simply breathtaking and my personal favorite.”

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T R A V E L

T O O L B O X

there’s an app for that

B Y B RIAN J E W E L L

T

he most important tool you can use as a travel leader is one you already have: your phone.

It’s no secret that mobile technology has fundamentally changed the way things get done on the road (and in many other aspects of life). And that change continues at a brisk pace. Today’s travel experience is dominated by mobile phone apps, which can streamline every step of a trip from before you leave to after you return home.

These apps are convenient for individual planners and absolutely essential for group leaders. Having the right apps at your fingertips will help you create better experiences, coordinate the moving parts of your trips and make sure your clients are having a great time on the road.

Here are five categories of apps you should download — and encourage your travelers to download too — before your next group trip.

carrier apps If you’ve flown recently, there’s a good chance you have downloaded an app created by a major air carrier. If not, you’re missing out: Airline apps eliminate the need for paper boarding passes, provide up-to-the minute flight info and allow you to quickly make itinerary changes if your trip is disrupted. Other travel carriers have followed suit and created apps to enrich their elements of the travel experience. If you’re taking a group on a cruise, encourage everyone to download the cruise line’s app, which will help them make the most of their time onboard. Some major tour companies you work with also have apps to help your travelers stay organized and discover hidden gems in the destinations they visit.

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messaging apps When you’re traveling with a group, having a quick way to get a message to everyone can be vital. This is especially important in emergencies or unpredictable situations. If the group is small enough, you can simply send a text message. For more than about 10 travelers, though, you’ll need a group messaging app. There are plenty to choose from, including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, GroupMe and Signal. All will allow you to send info — such as meet-up instructions, departure times, etc. — with your travelers, and most will allow members to share photos and videos with the group as they go. Just make sure you members download the apps before departure so you can add them to your group thread.

passport apps

cloud apps

If you’ve ever stood in line for an hour or more waiting to clear the

You accumulate a lot of info

immigration desk upon returning to the United States, you’ll appre-

when planning a trip — from

ciate just how helpful passport apps can be. Frequent international

passengers’ personal details to

travelers should sign up for Global Entry, a service that allows you

vendor contracts, itineraries and

to bypass the customs desk and scan your passport at a self-service

emergency contact info — and

kiosk. But even people who don’t have Global Entry can save time

there are moments when it would

with Customs and Border Patrol’s official Mobile Passport Control

be helpful to access that informa-

app, which allows travelers to enter their personal details beforehand

tion on your phone. The best way

to expedite the immigration clearance process on arrival. There are

to do this is to store all the im-

other passport apps that allow travelers to store important passport

portant trip information on a file

and personal information as well.

on your computer that is synced to the cloud. There are a number of services that do this, such as Dropbox, Google Drive and Microsoft’s OneDrive, and there’s a

ridesharing apps Today’s group travel itineraries include more independent exploration than ever before, and there’s a good chance that you or some of your travelers will be interested in catching a ride somewhere during that free time. No need to have the hotel bellman call you a cab — ridesharing apps such as Uber and Lyft make it quick and easy to find a driver to take you anywhere you want to go. The only catch is that it can be a bit of a pain to open an account at the moment you need service. So before you leave

good chance your organization already subscribes to one of them.

Each of these cloud services has a mobile phone app that syncs files from your computer to your phone, so you’ll never be without critical information when you need it.

home, download the apps, set up your accounts and enter payment details. Encourage your travelers to do the same.

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COURTESY CITY OF OURAY

Snowmobiling in Idaho

COURTESY CO TOURISM OFFICE

COURTESY VISIT IDAHO

Devils Tower National Monument

COURTESY WY OFFICE OF TOURISM

COURTESY YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK LODGES

Cross-country skiing in Yellowstone

Nightfall at Ouray Hot Springs

A winter hike in Colorado

A sleigh ride at the National Elk Refuge in Wyoming

BY HAGE PHOTO

COURTESY VISIT IDAHO

Winter in Utah’s Bryce Canyon

COURTESY WY OFFICE OF TOURISM

A winter carnival at Idaho’s Schweitzer Mountain Resort

T R A V E L

F O C U S

Go for snow Plan a winter weekend in the Rockies

BY JILL GLEESON

T

here is something special about the Rockies.

Running for some 3,000 miles all the way from Canada down into New Mexico, the rough and rugged mountain system is the West’s largest. With its unfettered wilderness, much of it protected as national and state parks, the Rockies are a paradise for outdoor-loving groups in search of soft adventures. And at no time of the year does that hold more true than during the winter, when the snow piles up in great drifts, hushing sound

and turning the landscape into a fairy tale-made manifest.

The cold-weather months in the Rockies provide opportunities for group travelers to indulge in everything from skiing to ice skating, sleigh rides to hot spring dips — and so much more. Whether you’re planning on putting together an itinerary in one of the Rocky Mountain states — or a tour through several of them — Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and Utah can all provide your group with the adventure of a lifetime.

COLORADO There’s a reason why Colorado is perpetually ranked among the most physically fit states in the country: the wealth of healthy outdoor activities available in it. Thanks to 28 ski resorts that include legendary locales like Aspen, Vail and Telluride, the Centennial State’s most popular outdoor activity of all is likely downhill skiing and snowboarding. For groups wanting to test their skill on the slopes, rentals and lessons are available in the above locations and at other resorts across Colorado.

Meanwhile, those who’d like to take things a little more slowly will find more than 20 cross-country skiing and snowshoeing centers in Colorado, including at Vail and Breckenridge. Both Nordic centers offer trails as well as lessons and rentals. And from January through March, leaders can book a private ranger-led snowshoe walk in the legendary Rocky Mountain National Park for their groups.

WYOMING

While Colorado, which is the most populous Rocky Mountain state, positively bustles with 5.685 million people, Wyoming is by comparison nearly deserted. And according to Piper Singer Cunningham, communications senior manager for the Wyoming Office of Tourism, that’s all the better for group travelers.

“Wyoming is the least populated state in the entire nation, so there’s an opportunity for you to really be immersed in the winter experience here without the crowds,” she said.

Among the state’s most unique pleasures for groups is taking a snow coach into Yellowstone National Park, which is accessible in winter only via the oversized vehicle. There are a variety of themed snow coach tours available, including wildlife adventure tours, geyser tours and more. The snow coaches also deliver guests to Old Faithful Snow Lodge, located near the famed geyser and offering a restaurant, accommodations and cross-country ski and snowshoe rentals.

Sleigh rides through Jackson Hole’s National Elk Refuge are also incredibly popular with group travelers. Guides lead the sleighs into North America’s largest migrating elk herd, answering questions about the animals along the way. While in Jackson Hole, which Cunningham calls Wyoming’s biggest winter destination, leaders might also want to take their groups to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for a scenic gondola ride with stunning views of the Teton mountain range. At the summit, there is a restaurant that

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An evening fire at a Yellowstone lodge PHOTOS COURTESY YELLOWSTONE PARK LODGES

Another option is to take your group skating in Colorado. After all, there may be no more iconic winter pastime than strapping on a pair of blades and hitting the ice. Along with Denver’s other delights, the city offers a downtown ice rink that can host private events, while a half-hour away, the 40-acre Evergreen Lake is home to the world’s largest Zamboni-groomed outdoor ice rink. The lake’s individual skating rinks and the warming hut are available for private group events.

Of course, making the most of the season in Colorado doesn’t always involve outdoor activity. Sometimes, it’s enough just to kick back, relax and enjoy the environs, as Julianne Krogseng, director of Tour Colorado notes.

“In the winter you have snow on the mountains; and just like in summer, you have beautiful clear blue skies; and it’s just breathtaking,” she said. “So, I would suggest that groups take a scenic train, like the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. It’s beautiful; you’re following the river all the way up there. There’s also the Georgetown Loop and the Royal Gorge, too.”

Along with riding the rails, a must-do winter experience for groups touring Colorado is soaking in one of the state’s hot springs. There are a variety to choose from — Colorado now features an 800-mile “Historic Hot Springs Loop” to help shine a light on 23 of the attractions. Among the largest of them is Ouray Hot Springs Pool and Fitness Center, which features five pools.

Exploring Yellowstone by snow coach

serves hot chocolate for a warming treat.

Before departing the state, groups should visit one of the state’s truly awe-inspiring sights: Devil’s Tower National Monument. Located in northeast Wyoming, on the border of South Dakota, it was America’s first national monument.

“It’s this rock butte that comes out of the ground from nowhere,” Cunningham said. “But there’s a paved trail that goes around the circumference and it’s open year-round.”

IDAHO

According to Nancy Richardson, senior marketing tourism specialist for Idaho Tourism, one of the best things for groups about the state is the variety of winter activities it offers. Snowmobiling is a favorite, and a number of rental and guide services are available in areas including Island Park and McCall. Island Park Adventures can handle groups of more than 12, while Brundage Mountain Resort in McCall also features skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing in addition to snowmobiling, so bigger tours can be split into smaller groups, with travelers choosing their own adventures.

After a day hitting the powder or riding a sled, your group is sure to appreciate a relaxing trip to the hot springs. There are a number of commercially developed geothermal pools appropriate for groups scattered across the state. Richardson suggests groups head to Lava Hot Springs Hot Pools, Swimming Pool and Waterpark, located near Pocatello.

Then, following a good night’s rest, take off for central Idaho and Hap and Florence Points Sleigh Rides. During the tour guests sleigh sitting on hay bales, which the elk come and feed from, allowing for a true up-close-and-personal experience with the majestic critters.

Whatever else your group’s itinerary in Idaho includes, make sure to add in a stop at one of the state’s many winter festivals, such as McCall Winter Carnival, Lava Hot Springs Fire and Ice Winterfest, or Sandpoint Winter Carnival.

“Idaho Falls is very much an outdoor place,” said Richardson. “We love being outside in the fresh air. And that continues through the winter months, so there are won-

N OV E MBE R /DE CE MBE R 2022

derful celebrations for groups to attend throughout the state during the season.”

UTAH

With 15 ski resorts known for having what’s been dubbed the “Greatest Snow on Earth,” resulting from some 500 inches of powder annually, Utah beckons leaders planning winter getaways for their groups. But while iconic spots like Park City and Sundance are great stops for skiing and snowboarding, leaders should also consider more unique opportunities, like booking a private Nordic Yurt Dinner with Wilderness Access Outfitters, out of Heber City.

During the adventure, groups will take a guided snowshoe tour to a toasty warm yurt, where a four-course dinner awaits.

For other singular offerings, groups can also head to the southern part of the state, notes Anna Loughridge, public relations manager, Utah Office of Tourism.

“For example, Bryce Canyon National Park is such a cool winter destination because you can find that desert-meets-winter experience,” she said.

“The air is crisp and pure; you can see for hundreds of miles, but there are no crowds, and the fact that the park is open year-round is really unique.”

There’s plenty to do there, too, including taking trips to both Bryce Point’s stunning overlook and Inspiration Point, the latter of which offers an easy walk along the canyon’s rim. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing amongst the park’s celebrated rock spires are also an option for groups (equipment is available to rent at Ruby’s Inn in Bryce Canyon City), as well as taking a gander at Utah’s night skies, internationally rated as some of the darkest in the world.

Ranger-led astronomy programs continue through winter at the park, or leaders can book a two-hour “Campfire, S’mores and Star Gazing” event through Adventure Tour Company in Kanab. Goodies include not just the stars above but also the Hollywood version as well — groups will visit an Old West fort movie set where more than three dozen movies and shows, including “The Apple Dumpling Gang” and “Westworld,” were filmed.

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BY KEVIN GARRETT, COURTESY LOUISIANANORTHSHORE.COM

Travelers can enjoy a whimsical miniature golf course, as well as classic ice cream and milkshakes, at the Old Town Slidell Soda Shop on Louisiana’s Northshore.

A Northshore Natural ST. TAMMANY PARISH IS FILLED WITH LOUISIANA LANDMARKS

BY RACHEL CRICK

J

WILD BUSH FARM AND VINEYARD

Previously known as Pontchartrain Vineyards, Wild Bush Farm and Vineyard was recently purchased and rebranded

by Neil Gernon and Monica Bourgeois, owners of Vending Machine Wines, a New Orleans-based, family-owned wine company. Bourgeois and Gernon have been attempting to revive the vineyard and further its contributions to the Louisiana wine scene.

The vineyard produces French-style table wines that combine regional and West Coast grape varietals, which has resulted in bold and innovative flavors. In addition to grapes, the vineyard’s new owners also plan to add fruit orchards and plenty of other farm-fresh produce in the coming seasons.

The scenic “farm to glass” vineyard in the town of Bush features a tasting room with elegant Tuscan design elements and a terrace overlooking the vineyard. It’s also the venue for a popular jazz music concert series during the spring and fall called Jazz’n the Vines.

Groups can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the vineyard to learn how its wines are made, walk through the stunning Louisiana countryside and sample the vineyard’s grapes. Tastings are available and so are tasting classes.

During select times of the year, groups may catch an evening jazz or swing concert, which they can enjoy with a glass of Wild Bush Vineyard’s finest vintage. wild bush fa rma ndv i neya rd . com

ABITA BREWERY

Located 30 miles outside of New Orleans, the Abita Brewery began churning out handcrafted brews in 1986.

Less than 10 years later, this local hit had to relocate to a bigger facility due to its success. Today, it’s a staple of the Northshore, providing craft lagers, ales and even sodas. The brewery credits its artesian well water and small batches for its delicious craft beverages. Favorites like the

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COURTESY WILD BUSH FARM AND VINEYARD

ust north of New Orleans, between the Pearl and Tangipahoa rivers, seven distinct communities make up St. Tammany Parish, a beautiful bayou destination for group travelers.

This Louisiana parish, also known as the Northshore, changed hands among the French, Spanish and British before finally being claimed by the Americans as part of Louisiana in 1812. Before that, it was once a land where Choctaw and other Native American tribes thrived. Groups can see the intricate history and heritage of the area reflected in its museums and architecture, while its natural beauty is evident in its marshes, waterways and wildlife preserves.

The Northshore has become “known for our eco-friendly and accessible outdoor attractions, unique museums, and a deep and delicious culinary scene,” said Tanya Leader, vice president of sales for the St. Tammany Parish Tourist and Convention Commission.

The exciting food-and-beverage scene in this bayou destination ranges from breweries and wineries to quaint restaurants and old-fashioned ice cream parlors. To supplement their Northshore adventures, groups can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink at these St. Tammany Parish staples.

LOUISIANANORTHSHORE.COM

Wild Bush Farm and Vineyard

Amber Ale, Purple Haze lager and the Louisiana exclusive, the Boot, are always on tap, but a wide selection of seasonal brews come and go throughout the year. In addition to its beverages, the brewery is also known for prioritizing sustainable practices including recycling its bottles and repurposing the byproducts of the brewing process.

Groups can take guided, 30-minute tours of the brew house to learn how the beverages are made. The tour concludes with a tasting in the taproom, where each visitor can sample four of the brewery’s craft beers. While beer is the main attraction at the brewery, soda tours are also available upon request. A food truck visits the brewery on Saturdays, but groups are free to sip beer and enjoy their own food or the brewery’s light snacks in the taproom or beer garden. In the brewery’s shop, apparel, glassware and bar essentials are available for purchase. a bita .com selecttraveler.com

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PASSIONATE PLATTER

Abita Brewery Tap Room

PHOTOS COURTESY LOUISIANANORTHSHORE.COM

Passionate Platter is an herb kitchen and garden market in Slidell that provides a hands-on culinary experience for groups traveling to St. Tammany Parish. The quaint business doubles as a quaint restaurant and a fun, culinary-themed outing for groups. Linda Franzo, owner and chef at Passionate Platter, offers personalized classes and presentations on everything from herbal cocktails to recipe demonstrations using the fresh, local flavors and herbs found in her own garden.

The business offers plenty of options for groups, including a garden-to-table tour, where visitors can peruse the garden’s fresh herbs and produce. They can learn how they’re grown, the best methods for harvesting them and how to use them in the kitchen. These group tours conclude with

Passionate Platter

a demonstration lunch using the produce straight from the garden, as well as other local ingredients, to craft a delicious meal of the group’s choice. Franzo also offers handson cooking class to teach groups how to make pasta, pizza, charcuterie and many other seasonal herbal meals.

OLD TOWN SLIDELL SODA SHOP

The Old Town Slidell Soda Shop, located in Slidell’s historic Old Towne District, is a vintage soda shop and ice cream parlor serving up sweet treats to locals and tourists alike in the Northshore area. The light-blue, two-story shop, decorated with old-fashioned ice cream scoops lining the walls, traditional diner counter bar stools, a black-andwhite checkered floor and classic arcade games, serves up nostalgia alongside its delicious desserts.

The soda shop makes its own ice cream and offers a wide selection of milkshakes, malts, banana splits, sundaes, sodas and snow cones, with both traditional and eccentric ice cream flavors and toppings. In addition to its dessert menu, the shop has a diner menu, with options such as burgers, onion rings and Southern classics like po’boys and chicken and waffles.

Groups can stop by the shop to try a scoop of ice cream, a milkshake or a float with a hot meal, but the fun doesn’t end there. When they’ve had their fill of sweets, groups can go around back to the property’s 18-hole mini-golf course for a round of putt-putt. In addition to the old arcade games, the shop has a selection of delightful vintage toys for visitors to purchase.

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LOUISIANA NORTHSHORE

St. Tammany Parish is located less than an hour from New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Southern charm and big-city amenities await you on Louisiana’s Northshore, where everyone is family.

Bring your appetite for life and discover where New Orleans has come to play and get away for more than a century.

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THE MICS ARE ALWAYS HOT IN NASHVILLE

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ashville definitely is not a beenthere-done-that city. The vitality of its entertainment scene means you always can open new doors for your clients.

People all over town are eager to share the magic. Take Jay McDowell at the Musicians Hall of Fame, for instance. He’s a longtime musician who plays upright bass.

His title at the museum is multimedia archivist, but it easily could be storyteller.

The Musicians Hall of Fame salutes studio musicians, both in Nashville and in other powerhouse music centers such as Muscle Shoals, Alabama; Detroit; Memphis; and Los

Angeles. With prior arrangement, McDowell will escort a group, and he makes each tour one-of-a-kind.

“I don’t have a script,” he said, knowing he can tap into personal experiences, from playing sessions for artists such as Vince Gill, Marty Stuart, the Black Crowes and Tommy Roe, to nights onstage in the rockabilly group BR-549. “I feel it out from the group. If they’re into nostalgia, I’ll stay with Motown and Stax Records. If they want, I’ll spend more time in the Grammy Gallery. I have stories.”

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COURTESY IMAGINE RECORDING

BY TOM ADKINSON

Groups visiting Nashville can sit in on a recording session at Imagine Recording.

The gift shop at Musicians Hall of Fame

BY CHRIS HOLL

WHERE HITS WERE BORN

After the Musicians Hall of Fame piques your interest about how records are made, check out a real recording studio.

RCA Studio B probably is Nashville’s best known historic studio. There’s an aura here, perhaps because 35,000 songs, 1,000 top 10 hits and 40 million-selling songs flowed from it. You’ll recognize the artists who recorded there: legends such as Eddy Arnold, Waylon Jennings, Dolly Parton, Jim Reeves, Willie Nelson, the Everly Brothers, Roy Orbison, and that fellow from Memphis named Elvis.

Access to RCA Studio B is an add-on ticket from a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, itself an ever-renewing attraction. Just opened for a three-year run through 2025 is a major exhibition called “Western Edge: The Roots and Reverberations of Los Angeles Country-Rock.”

Learn about the glitz and impact of the Byrds, Emmylou Harris, Linda Ronstadt, Dwight Yoakam and others.

After visiting the historic site, the next step is experiencing a modern recording studio in action. That’s possible at Imagine Recording, which uses the historic Sound Stage Studios on Music Row. More than 500 No. 1 hits have been recorded here.

During a 90-minute visit, your group will be in the studio while musicians and a Nashville songwriter record a new song. You may meet Steve Fishell, the company founder and a steel guitar session player for stars such as Emmylou Harris, John Prine and Dolly Parton. The entertainers will record a second song, and engineers will send you a mixed track of that number.

Deana Carter and Breland at the Grand Ole Opry

WRITERS’ ROOMS

Singer Lacy J. Dalton had a hit with “16th Avenue,” a song that put Nashville songwriters on the pedestal where they rightfully belong, and Nashville makes it easy to encounter songwriters in their natural setting — behind a microphone.

The Bluebird Cafe is the most famous club that celebrates songwriters, but it is small and in high demand. Therefore, knowing about alternatives is useful.

“The Bluebird Cafe is the ultimate venue for songwriters and those who want to listen to our words and music,” said singer/songwriter Les Kerr. “Nashville is home to other spots that regularly feature original music, as well, including the Commodore Grille and the Millennium Maxwell House Hotel.”

Yet another songwriter spot is the Listening Room Cafe, not far from Music Row and just blocks from Lower Broadway’s honky tonk scene. The club was born in 2006 as a songwriter’s performance venue, and songwriters and fans have followed it through four moves.

There often are midday shows, and most evenings offer two acts. The club is modest in size, and its “be quiet during performances” policy admonishes everyone to respect whomever is on stage. “Keep conversation to a whisper” is the counsel.

COURTESY MUSICIANS HALL OF FAME

A LEGENDARY STAGE

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Of course, the Grand Ole Opry has Nashville’s most famous stage, and it’s possible to gain some special access.

The historic show is creeping up on its 100th year of broadcast entertainment in 2025.

The daytime “Women of Country” tour is a 45-minute backstage visit to dressing rooms with names such as “Glitz and Glamour” and “Honky-Tonk Angels.” It highlights stars such as Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood and Reba McEntire and includes a mimosa for an extra celebratory touch.

A supplement to an Opry performance is the “Circle Room Pre-Show” tour. It includes drinks, light bites and a commemorative photo in the Circle Room Lounge for one hour before the show and through the end of intermission.

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HONKY TONK CENTRAL

Nashville’s Lower Broadway honky-tonk district stands in stark contrast to the assigned seating and scheduled-performance punctuality of the Opry. This is a place to let your clients roam and sample music at numerous clubs that butt up against one another and entice patrons to enter.

Some big clubs carry A-list entertainers’ names, but don’t expect to see those stars. Among the tried-and-true honky tonks are places such as Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge Legends Corner, Layla’s, the Stage and Robert’s Western World. All have live country music, cold beer and plenty of volume.

Robert’s Western World offers one of Nashville’s culinary oddities. It is the Recession Special, which dates to the economic crunch of 2008, and provides a fried bologna sandwich with lettuce and tomato on Texas toast, chips, a miniMoon Pie and a cold Pabst Blue Ribbon beer for $6 — tax included. Remember to tip your server and the band.

Shops and honky tonks on Broadway

The historic Union Station Hotel

PHOTOS BY TOM ADKINSON

MEMORABLE HOTELS

A memorable Nashville tour warrants distinctive lodging, and the choice of hotels has expanded dramatically in recent years.

The Union Station Hotel, a few blocks away from the hubbub of Lower Broadway, is a castle-like historic destination.

It became a Nashville landmark in 1900 when it opened as one of America’s grand railroad terminals. Every room is different, and its 65-foot-high barrel-vaulted ceiling accented with Tiffany-style stained glass is stunning.

The modern Omni Nashville Hotel is closer to Lower Broad and has the distinction of being connected to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. It is next door to the Bridgestone Arena, site of many major concerts, as well as home to the Nashville Predators hockey team.

The five-star Hermitage Hotel is another downtown historic property. This sedate hotel opened in 1910 and played a key role in the fight over women’s suffrage. (Tennessee was the deciding state for the 19th Amendment.) It is within easy walking distance of attractions such as the Ryman Auditorium and the Musicians Hall of Fame.

A Broadway band

PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY

The Listening Room Café

in Nashville’s Backyard

BY TOM ADKINSON

Visit the Home of the 7 th President

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F O R

THE STANLEY HOTEL ESTES PARK, COLORADO Located approximately an hour’s drive from Denver, the Stanley Hotel is a gorgeous 140-room hotel that — with the help of a few renovations — has been part of the Estes Valley since 1909. The venue is the brainchild of Freelan Oscar Stanley, an inventor from the East Coast who decided to build the hotel after recovering from tuberculosis in the valley in 1903. It provided an element of sophistication to an area known for hunter and homesteader structures.

When author Stephen King stayed there the 1970s, it inspired one of his bestselling horror novels, “The Shining.”

Today, The Stanley is a must-visit hotel where guests are met with beautifully furnished rooms, spa services, an underground theater, outdoor adventure packages, a wine bar and four restaurants, ranging from a fried chicken and beer eatery to an ala carte fine dining establishment.

Mixed in with these customary amenities is the chance to explore the hotel’s rather chilling qualities. A one-hour Spirited Night Tour leads visitors through the hotel’s dark edges, while a storyteller recounts the details of its spirited past. For a more personal experience, guests can request to stay in rooms, including the Stephen King suite, known for their high paranormal activity.

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COURTESY THE STANLEY HOTEL

COURTESY 1886 CRESCENT HOTEL & SPA

K N O W N

1886 CRESCENT HOTEL AND SPA EUREKA SPRINGS, ARKANSAS Built as a year-round resort in 1886, the 72-room Crescent Hotel in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, got its start from the “healing” springs found in and around the area. The building was designed by world-renowned architect Isaac Taylor and cost $294,000. In 1902, the hotel was leased to Frisco Railroad for a few years and later became Crescent College, a higher education institution for women, until 1934.

Norman Baker purchased the building three years later and turned it into the Baker Cancer Clinic, making stacks of money before being jailed for promoting a fraudulent cure.

Fast forward to today — skipping past multiple renovations and ownership changes — the hotel serves as a relaxing oasis, where guests can learn about its history as well as enjoy spa services, a pool and hot tub, nearby parks and trails, hatchet throwing, lawn games, live music, and multiple dining and drink establishments during their stay.

Given its storied past, the hotel has had numerous reports of ghost sightings and other paranormal activity. Guests interested in experiencing the haunt for themselves can stay in what’s called Michael’s Room, home to the ghost of an Irish stonemason who fell to his death during construction, or sign up for a guided ghost tour that explores the dark nooks and crannies of the hotel.

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CHILLINGHAM CASTLE NORTHUMBERLAND, ENGLAND Originally built in the 12th century as a monastery, Chillingham in Northumberland, England, became a fully fortified castle in 1344 and played a large role in many battles and feuds. It has been part of one bloodline since 1246, tracing back to the Earls Grey. Though centuries old, the castle’s walls and architecture have not changed.

Today, in addition to staying in a beautifully furnished room, guests can explore the castle’s grounds and artifact-rich spaces as well as enjoy food and beverages at its in-house tearoom.

Known as Britain’s most haunted historic castle, Chillingham offers a few unforgettable experiences. Guests can sign up to take part in a guided two-hour ghost tour or a four-hour ghost hunt. While the tour leads guests through the most haunted parts of the castle, the hunt allows them to roll up their sleeves and take part in a ghostly investigation. Workshops are also available for those who want to learn how to use ghost-hunting equipment prior to going on a hunt.

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COURTESY KAROSTA PRISON

favorite haunts

KAROSTA PRISON LIEPĀJA, LATVIA Constructed in the early 20th century, Karosta Prison was used by both the Soviet and Latvian navies as a short-term disciplinary facility for sailors and noncommissioned officers. Now, it’s a unique tourist attraction and overnight accommodation. But the experience is different from a traditional hotel stay. When guests arrive, they sign an agreement and “step into the shoes” of a prisoner. In addition to being ordered around by guards, they sleep in cells and can even be served a prison meal.

In case the prisoner experience doesn’t sound like enough of an adrenaline rush, the prison is said to be haunted by some of its former inmates. In fact, it was called one of the most haunted places in the world by Ghost Hunters International. During their stay, guests explore the prison by candlelight. Strange footsteps, shadows, whispers, creaking cell doors and more have all been reported.

While the overnight stay is quite popular, the venue also offers several other activities that are a little less intense. Guests can enjoy an interactive show called Behind Bars, take part in an escape room, learn about the history of the prison, take guided bicycle tours around the grounds and walk the approximately six-mile Freedom Trail. Karosta has a buffet that offers coffee, pie and other hot foods.

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COURTESY WINDSTAR CRUISES

A gourmet meal aboard a Windstar culinary cruise

Boutique Adventure

BY RACHEL CRICK

An Antarctica adventure with Hurtigruten

COURTESY HURTIGRUTEN EXPEDITIONS

These cruise companies deliver remote luxury

An artist’s rendering of Explora I sailing through Norway

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ome of the cruise industry’s most innovative companies are taking travelers off the beaten path — literally.

The nontraditional cruise market primarily consists of luxury and boutique small-ship cruise lines and expedition cruise lines, focusing on providing travelers with exclusive experiences and first-rate amenities. Rather than giving passengers access to an amusement park in the middle of the ocean or stopping at popular tropical ports, nontraditional cruises are curated to intrigue and amaze every traveler. They include stops in remote destinations, activities and attractions to check items off bucket lists and unbridled luxury onboard.

These nontraditional cruises aim to provide the most authentic and individualized tourist experiences possible.

Here are some of the latest developments in this fast-growing and ever-changing sect of the cruise industry.

COURTESY EXPLORA JOURNEYS

UnCruise Adventures Eclipse-Viewing Itinerary The small-ship cruise line UnCruise Adventures is known for giving its passengers endless choices for recreation and adventure, from kayaking and snorkeling off the shores of private islands to watching majestic wildlife in its natural habitat. With fewer than 100 passengers on each of its vessels, these adventure cruises offer an intimate travel experience with a variety of excursions rich in culture and fun that’s also devoid of overly crowded ports and activities. UnCruise Adventures has released a new itinerary for 2023 that features a rare opportunity for passengers, especially those who love stargazing. Cruisers will get to see 2023’s annular solar eclipse, also known as the ring of fire eclipse, when the moon is set to cover the center of the sun, leaving only a halo of visible light.

This eclipse-viewing cruise will take place off the coast of Belize, onboard the Safari Voyager, which can accommodate up to 66 passengers. The cruise features several ports of call in Belize and Guatemala, and excursions include exploring a private island, snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef, viewing wildlife at the world’s first jaguar sanctuary and hiking through rainforests. On the cruise’s second day, passengers will be able to view the eclipse, but the fun will continue throughout the entire nine-day journey.

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UnCruise Adventures sailing in Panama

RITZCARLTONYACHTCOLLECTION.COM

Explora Journeys’ New Destination Experiences In summer of 2022, the new small-ship luxury cruise line Explora Journeys announced a new collection of shore excursions. The line, which already focuses on offthe-beaten-path destinations in its itineraries, has added “Destination Experiences” to its voyages on the ship Explora I. Catering to small groups from two to 25, these experiences are one-of-a-kind excursions and activities, often set in locations that are usually off-limits to cruise ships, such as the lesser visited ports on the Greek Island Kastellorizo or in Corsica, France.

Explora Journeys puts a heavy emphasis on port activities. The cruise line promises to curate individual experiences and private tours, even in well-known areas with high tourist traffic. Explora has organized the destination experiences into categories ranging from excursions designed for active or thrill-seeking groups to peerless experiences to multi-day cultural immersions in countries. Ac-

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COURTESY UNCRUISE ADVENTURES

Ritz-Carlton Ship Debut Ritz-Carlton, the luxury hotel chain, announced plans to introduce the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and enter the luxury small-ship cruise industry in 2017. However, due to construction delays and the pandemic, the first ship in this collection wasn’t officially finished until October 2022, when Ritz-Carlton released photos of the luxury yacht and published its first itineraries. Evrima’s maiden voyage took passengers from Barcelona, Spain, to Nice, France. In the coming years, two more yachts will be completed and added to the Ritz-Carlton fleet.

Evrima, the Greek word for “discovery,” can accommodate 298 passengers and aims to provide each with a luxury experience aligned with the Ritz-Carlton brand.

Boasting nearly as many staff members as passengers, Evrima advertises its hospitality and service as one of its distinguishing features. From the chic, minimalistic décor in the lounges and dining venues to amenities like water sports, a spa and infinity pool, the guest experiences aboard this yacht are first-rate.

Guests can choose from multiple restaurants and dining areas, which offer everything from international gourmet meals to laidback, casual fare. Every suite is spacious, but passengers can opt for either a simple stateroom with a terrace or a two-story loft. Itineraries announced so far include voyages exploring northern Europe, the Caribbean and even Canada and New England.

tivities include rare opportunities, such as flying an L-39 jet warbird in Latvia, taking private tours of the Sistine Chapel or whale-watching in a Finnish-style sauna. These experiences are pieced together with luxury transportation, five-star accommodations and inclusive access to each destination’s must-see attractions and activities.

EXPLORAJOURNEYS.COM

Hurtigruten Adding Seven Arctic Adventures Hurtigruten Expeditions is known for its selection of remote and interesting destinations around the world.

While it may not be considered a luxury cruise line, Hurtigruten provides just enough comfort to its passengers as they explore some of the world’s most exclusive and beautiful destinations, from Europe to West Africa to Antarctica. Its summer of 2023 lineup of Arctic expedition cruises was just expanded to include seven new Arctic destinations and experiences for passengers on the MS Maud, which has a capacity of 530. Two of the Arctic expeditions include stops in Iceland, Greenland and the picturesque volcanic island Jan Mayen. Another itinerary features 20 days of exploring Greenland’s icebergs and wildlife. Another two exclusively involve stops in Iceland, where passengers will cross the Arctic Circle, and the final two expeditions involve multiple stops in Iceland, as well as several North Atlantic islands.

Because it’s an expedition cruise line, the MS Maud features onboard experts to deliver lectures on area wildlife and guide cruisers safely through excursions. A spot on the MS Maud ensures Hurtigruten passengers will glimpse the icebergs, frozen tundra, plentiful wildlife and local townships of the Arctic both onboard and during their shore excursions. Amenities on the MS Maud include hot tubs and saunas, lounges and restaurants, as well as a science center.

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COURTESY WINDSTAR CRUISES

Windstar Culinary Cruises

COURTESY RITZ-CARLTON YACHT COLLECTION

On board the Ritz-Carlton yacht Evrima

Exploring a farmers market on a Windstar culinary cruise

Nontraditional cruises are often centered around themes. In the case of Windstar Culinary Cruises, the theme is gourmet cuisine. The small-ship luxury cruise line has been partnering with the James Beard Foundation since 2017 to bring famous chefs on board its yachts, where they provide delicious and innovative meals to passengers. The 2023 lineup will include Jerome Grant, Ayesha Nurdjaja and Tracy Chang on voyages to Central America, the Mediterranean and Japan, respectively. In addition to featuring delicious meals crafted by these chefs and paired with wines for four hosted dinExperience the holiday season in Sikeston. Shop for the perfect gift or visit the iconic Yule Log Cabin. ners, each cruise will allow passengers Enjoy a throwed roll from Lambert's Cafe or a Kirby Burger from Kirby's Sandwich Shop. Call the to learn from the best with two cooking Sikeston Convention & Visitors Bureau 888-309-6591 (tourism@sikeston.net) to plan your trip today! demonstrations. On land, cruisers are even invited to shop with the chefs for local ingredients.

Guests will enjoy their meals in style onboard three of Windstar’s yachts: the Star Breeze, Star Legend and Wind Surf, the world’s largest sailing yacht with a capacity of 342. In addition to the excellent onboard culinary experience, passengers can participate in the foodthemed shore excursions featuring local Holiday Events & Attractions delicacies and atmospheric restaurants Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting at every turn. Each ship has comfortable Yule Log Cabin Downtown Holiday Open House and stylish suites, tastefully decorated Santa's Village in Legion Park dining venues and excursions among loGingerbread Competition cal cultures.

Christmas Church Tour of Sikeston & Scott Co.

Visit Sikeston MO

WINDSTARCRUISES.COM

Santa at the Depot Historic Downtown Shopping District Cinnamon Rolls with Santa & much more! *Go to www.sikeston.net/tourism for details

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COURTESY AMAWATERWAYS

The AmaMora sailing on the Rhine in Germany

A lounge aboard the Uniworld S.S. Sphinx

COURTESY UNIWORLD

Intimate Access

BY RACHEL CRICK

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COURTESY UNIWORLD NICE TOURISM

Swimming on Uniworld’s S.S. Maria Theresa

River cruises continue an elegant evolution

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ffering intimate experiences and memorable excursions, river cruising is a fast-growing sector of the cruise industry.

Instead of the thousands of passengers onboard large ocean ships, river cruise ships usually hold a maximum of a couple hundred. Unlike an ocean cruise, passengers don’t spend days on the water. These vessels dock frequently, allowing cruisers plenty of excursions to the port cities teeming with exciting attractions and delicious cuisine.

From exciting new itineraries to onboard delights, here are some of the river cruise industry’s latest developments.

AmaWaterways Seven River Journey Known for its river cruises in Europe, Asia and South America, AmaWaterways has been bringing its guests a refined cruising experience for 20 years. The line has continued to produce innovative and exciting itineraries during its two decades in the industry, and one of its most recently announced itineraries is no exception. The Seven River Journey will premiere in the spring and summer of 2024. This voyage is Ama’s longest continuous river cruise, lasting a total of 49 nights aboard the AmaMora, a 156-passenger luxury ship. This eliminates the added stress of moving ships and allows guests to focus on the riverside experiences.

Setting sail from Amsterdam in the spring, the AmaMora will give cruisers the opportunity to see 15 European countries by way of its rivers and canals, sailing the length of several rivers, such as the Rhine, for the first time. In summer, the ship will depart from Romania and travel in reverse order back to Amsterdam. The 2024 itineraries will include some new destinations, including a weeklong exploration of the Danube Delta, where cruisers can enjoy a new port in Moldova and six new towns.

With stops in the Netherlands, Germany, France and several Balkan countries, among others, the itinerary offers guests aboard the AmaMora plenty of cultural sites and attractions to explore and an array of international cuisine to try in addition to the gorgeous scenery of the European countryside in full bloom.

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Viking Introduces Expedition Cruises Expedition cruising, a subset of the cruise industry, focuses more on the experiences ashore than onboard the ship. Viking, a well-known river and midsize-ship ocean cruise line, has recently expanded to include expedition cruises. Two new vessels designed for this purpose, Octantis and Polaris, were introduced this fall, and their itineraries include unexpected destinations such as the Great Lakes and Antarctica.

The longitudinal world cruises set for 2023 take cruisers to dozens of countries over the course of nearly 70 days, traversing rivers, lakes and oceans to give guests unforgettable trips. From observing the wildlife off the coast of Antarctica to cruising by the bustling city of Milwaukee, the new itineraries include rare experiences and wondrous destinations uncommon to most travelers.

The sister ships can accommodate 378 passengers each, making them larger than many other expedition vessels.

Still, they retain the intimate and luxurious feel typical of Viking cruises, with well designed, comfortably furnished staterooms with ocean views, as well as Nordic spas and buffets stocked with international foods. However, unlike a typical Viking vessel, the expedition ships have more amenities and features focused on getting guests to leave the ship than to remain on it. Kayaks, zodiac boats and even submarines are included on both vessels to boost each visitor’s adventures. The ship’s staff includes knowledgeable guides, naturalists and cultural experts to keep guests safe and aid in their exploration of each port of call and excursion.

VIKINGCRUISES.COM

Avalon Waterways Offers Free Drinks at Happy Hour Nothing says hospitality like a complimentary happy hour. Avalon Waterways, the award-winning river cruise line that’s earned a reputation for luxury, has found yet another way to elevate its passengers’ experience. In 2023, Avalon will host a daily happy hour where guests can enjoy free beverages in the hour before dinner. House wine, beer and spirits will be available, as well as a featured cocktail, on all the European Suite Ships. This is in addition to the complimentary spirits served at lunch and dinner. With the ship’s selection of international wine and beer, signature cocktails and gourmet meals, prepared with fresh, regional ingredients, passengers will have ample opportunity to indulge in a first-rate culinary experience onboard.

The European Suite Ships offer passengers a range of amenities and features, such as panoramic views, spacious suites and a fitness center, in addition to the free happy-hour beverages. The cruise itineraries for these ships feature countries such as France, the Netherlands, Belgium and even the Balkans. Multiriver cruises and seasonal cruises are also available for an unforgettable trip along Europe’s rivers.

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American Queen’s Ocean Voyager

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An all-suite Avalon vessel in Europe

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COURTESY AVALON WATERWAYS

COURTESY UNIWORLD

The Uniworld S.S. Maria Theresa in Budapest

A Viking experience in Antarctica

A dining room on the Uniworld S.S. Sphinx

Uniworld’s Rivers of the World Itinerary Keeping with the industry trend of expanding the timelines of river cruises from weeks to months, Uniworld announced its Rivers of the World itinerary for 2023. The boutique river cruise company released a 46-night itinerary that involves sailing on five different vessels and visiting nine countries by way of their rivers.

This river cruise is packed with highly appealing destinations, such as Cairo, Milan and Paris. The five ships will glide along famous rivers like the Nile and the Seine, allowing passengers to glimpse the diverse geography and cultures nestled alongside them. From ancient Egyptian temples to small villages in northern France, cruisers will experience a broad range of cultures, dining, nature and historic sites that are sure to check many items off their travel bucket lists. The cruises are also all-inclusive, arranging the airfare and overnight stays between countries and offering cocktails, beer and wine with meals for no extra charge.

Each ship features tasteful interior decor aligned with the culture of the river it’s sailing; for instance, the S.S. Sphinx is adorned throughout with opulent golden accents and ornate regional furniture, while the S.S. Maria Theresa, which takes passengers through Hungary, features elegant, 18th century-style furnishings and baroque details.

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COURTESY NICE TOURISM

COURTESY UNIWORLD

COURTESY AMERICAN QUEEN

COURTESY VIKING CRUISES

American Queen’s Lakelorian Program What started as a single riverboat on the Mississippi River has grown into one of the most recognizable river cruising companies in North America. With an array of steamboats and paddle-wheelers at its disposal, American Queen Voyages has developed a range of itineraries in the rivers and lakes of the United States, including the Great Lakes.

Because of their small size, American Queen vessels can dock at many smaller ports where larger ships can’t.

The cruise line announced in 2023 it would partner with the National Museum of the Great Lakes to introduce the Lakelorian Program. This will entail the inclusion of an expert guide on the staff of the Ocean Voyager and the Ocean Navigator, two of the ships with Great Lakes itineraries. Lake Chats about each destination on the itinerary will be included to ensure cruisers don’t miss out on the fascinating history of the Great Lakes while enjoying their breathtaking scenery.

These American Queen Great Lakes cruises take guests down the St. Lawrence River and include stops in cities like Toronto, Chicago and Detroit. Excursions to prominent area attractions like Niagara Falls and Mackinac Island are also included. The vessels each offer guests an array of comforts to enjoy on their cruises, such as fresh, locally sourced and inspired meals, hospitable service and quaint cabins.

BY MILES HOLDEN, COURTESY TOURISM NEW ZEALAND

Ziplining in Christchurch

COURTESY CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE

The new Carnival Celebration

COURTESY SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TOURISM COMMISSION

A seaside destination in Australia

Excitement AT Sea

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COURTESY ISLAND OF HAWAII VB

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COURTESY PRINCESS CRUISES

Exploring New Zealand’s Waitomo Caves

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Historic Stockholm

Large ship cruising is better than ever

Carnival Celebration Carnival Cruise Lines, one of the best known names in the cruising industry, is celebrating its 50th birthday in 2022. The line’s impressive ships, exotic destinations and abundant onboard entertainment have made it a top choice for cruisers and a staple in the industry for decades. This year, on the line’s golden anniversary, its fleet is getting a new addition, aptly named Carnival Celebration.

This ship is a sister to Mardi Gras, which debuted in 2021, and Carnival Jubilee, which is set to join the fleet in 2023. Mardi Gras was the first ship in North America powered with liquified natural gas (LNG), which means it emits fewer greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Carnival Celebration is also LNG-powered, signifying a greener future for the company and the cruise industry in general.

The maiden voyage of Carnival Celebration is taking place this November; the ship is departing from London to head to its home port in Miami. Its first voyages primarily consist of Caribbean destinations.

Like its sister ship, Carnival Celebration will offer its guests plenty of entertainment and dining options. The ship will feature a roller coaster, spa and salon, multiple theaters and pools, and a luxurious atrium with floor-to-ceiling windows, which transform into LED screens during the ship’s nightly entertainment. Despite its similarities to Mardi Gras, it also has elements that distinguish it from other Carnival ships, such as atrium lighting resembling confetti and restaurants from Guy Fieri and Shaquille O’Neal.

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COURTESY PRINCESS CRUISES

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oolside lounges, amusement rides, luxury spas and 360-degree ocean views: Large-ship ocean cruises offer a vacationer everything they need in the middle of the ocean. In addition to being a means of travel, these massive ships are also vacation destinations in their own right.

Luxury accommodations, elegant dining and world-class entertainment, not to mention exotic shore excursions, make cruising an appealing form of group travel.

Changes in the industry are constantly elevating guest experiences, from new vessels packed with amenities to new or reimagined destinations and itineraries. Here are some noteworthy developments set to impact large-ship ocean cruising in the near future.

Stockholm, a new Baltic destination for Princess Cruises

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas Another staple of the cruise industry, Royal Caribbean, currently holds the record for the world’s largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas. The cruise line is set to break its own record with an even larger vessel, known as the Icon of the Seas, which will set sail in January 2024. Currently under construction in Finland, the massive ship will be the largest cruise ship in the world, measuring nearly 1,200 feet long, or about 10 feet longer than the Oasis-class Wonder of the Seas. The ship will be the first Royal Caribbean vessel powered by liquefied natural gas, and the first in a line of many LNG-powered ships to join the line’s fleet in the coming years. At 20 decks high, it will have a capacity of 7,600 passengers.

Plans for the ship include a world-class entertainment venue for passengers of all ages, from the world’s largest at-sea waterpark with record-breaking waterslides to an indoor AquaTheater for acrobatic and diving performances.

The ship features three-story townhouse suites and family cabins, which provide comfortable accommodations for vacationing families. For unforgettable ocean views, the suspended infinity pool hangs off the back of the ship and is conveniently surrounded by bars and restaurants. The eight “neighborhoods” on the cruise ship will offer passengers everything from vibrant nightlife to relaxing outdoor space.

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Australia and New Zealand Voyages During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the world’s ports were closed to cruise ships, and international travel bans were instated. As the restrictions in many countries relaxed and resumed typical (or nearly typical) operations, some countries remained locked down. Australia and New Zealand, two popular cruising destinations, kept their travel bans in place much longer than anticipated. Australia didn’t lift its entry ban for cruise ships until April 2022, while New Zealand opened its ports at the end of July 2022.

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Now that these countries’ two-year hiatus from cruising has come to a close, the industry has been making a strong comeback. Most of the major cruise lines have expanded their itineraries to include Australian and New Zealand destinations in late 2022 and throughout 2023, bringing the land down under back into the industry spotlight.

Holland America Line has announced a new Australia and New Zealand voyage for 2024, a 94-day journey with 43 ports of call, 17 of which are in the Australian area. On this itinerary, cruisers can check out metropolitan areas like Sydney and Honolulu, explore rugged New Zealand terrain and South Pacific islands, and cruise through the Great Barrier Reef.

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New Cruise Port in the Bahamas The Bahamas have long been a favorite destination among cruisers, and it’s easy to see why. The beautiful turquoise waters, white sand beaches and top-notch hospitality among its resorts and attractions make it both an exotic and relaxing getaway. A recent announcement has revealed plans for another cruise port, which is sure to add even more appeal for those visiting the island chain.

Calypso Cove, the new Bahamian cruise port, is set to begin construction by the end of 2023. Though the completion date has yet to be estimated, the mega port will be located on the island chain’s Long Island, south of Nassau and other popular Bahamian ports. The project, commissioned by Azul Destinations Ltd. and Calypso Cove Ltd., is slated to cost $250 million and is anticipated to bring ample economic opportunity to the island.

In addition to being large enough for two Oasis class ships to dock simultaneously, the port is expected to have plenty of extra amenities for cruisers to enjoy on their excursions. This includes a luxury resort with 200 rooms, a water bar and an indoor and outdoor pool. There will also be a shopping center, casinos and an 18-hole golf course,

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COURTESY TOURIST OFFICE OF SPAIN

COURTESY ROYAL CARIBBEAN

BY SARA ORME, COURTESY TOURISM NEW ZEALAND

A Hobbit movie set in New Zealand

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas

Calypso Cove, the new Bahamian cruise port, is set to begin construction by the end of 2023.

The mega port will be located on the island chain’s Long Island, south of Nassau and other popular Bahamian ports. in addition to the surrounding natural beauty of the island’s beaches. The port will be capable of handling an estimated 13,000 guests daily.

Baltic Cruises Reworked without Russia Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, cruise lines have made some dramatic changes to the itineraries of their Baltic cruises. St. Petersburg, a hub for Russian culture and the fourth most populous city in Europe, was formerly one of the top destinations on these itineraries. However, the popular port city and other Russian destinations have been cut from Baltic itineraries because of the conflict, leaving the future of cruising in the region uncertain.

Without one of their most appealing destinations available, cruise lines have been attempting to piece together new itineraries with just as much history, interesting architecture and cultural appeal.

While missing out on ballet and the iconic Russian Revival-style churches may be disappointing for some travelers, the reworked itineraries feature exciting destinations designed to make up for St. Petersburg’s absence.

Princess Cruises has included replacement destinations in Sweden and Poland, while the Holland America Line features destinations in Baltic states Lithuania and Latvia. Travelers can visit the museums and Nordic architecture in Sweden’s capital, Stockholm, and explore medieval ruins and cathedrals of the Swedish island, Visby. The bustling streets of Riga, Latvia, are adorned with ornate, colorful buildings and plenty of local events for travelers to check out during excursions.

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Travelers Will Feed Off Your Positivity

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you wouldn’t have otherwise been able to see. Having a egativity can ruin a trip in a hurry. creative mind or an optimistic traveling partner can help Each of us is susceptible to having a bad turn those negative moments into positive experiences. attitude from time to time. But to have a successful group travel experience, it’s importPractice Patience ant to leave the negativity at home.

Travel planners, tour directors and guides always enWhen you’re getting ready for a big trip, you spend the deavor to help with issues and solve problems. But at the days before getting things done. You have to make sure end of the day, there are some problems they can’t prepare your home and pets are taken care of, run errands, and for.

Be patient with your tour directors, even if you do not of course, pack. And during the holidays, the to-do list see them working on the problems that is even longer. You can get trapped arise. They most likely are working bein the hustle and bustle of the seahind the scenes to handle them. Tour son and forget that a successful trip directors often have backup plans for requires time and space for mental common problems and will strive to do preparation. As a result, it’s easy to everything possible to get the trip back forget to reflect on the upcoming trip on track. or get in a positive mindset.

As you’re preparing for a trip, taking Start Each Day Afresh time to get in the right frame of mind is While traveling, you generally wake essential. When you’re traveling with up, prepare for your day and get goa group, that’s even more important, ing.

But it’s worthwhile to take a few as your attitude will impact the expemoments to forget any issues that may rience of your group. Here are some Ashley Taylor finds have gone wrong the day before and tips you and your customers can use positivity in every start the new day with a fresh mind. to stay positive as you prepare for and travel experience.

Your tour director is a great helper and embark on group adventures. will work hard to keep your trip on track. But even if something doesn’t Anticipate Challenges work out, give them a fresh start each day. Depending on You and your travelers are probably looking forward to how many people you are traveling with, your tour director a wonderful experience on your upcoming trip. But you may be working on problems others are dealing with that need to remember that things will go wrong and not evyou are unaware of.

Give them a lot of grace, especially erything operates perfectly to plan — especially in this during the holidays. post-pandemic era of labor shortages and supply chain breakdowns. While these problems are aggravating, it’s Live in the Moment important to pause and recenter to a positive mindset.

Appreciate where you are and embrace your surroundIf a problem arises, try to find the humor in it. If a flight ings.

We can each be guilty of not taking the time to truly is delayed, look for an opportunity to explore something

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Ashley Taylor is a longtime bank and travel club planner.

She lives in Ashland, Kentucky, with her family of six.

bio

Holiday events and New Year’s Eve parties help to keep travelers in a festive mood.

appreciate the moment. You and your travelers have all have invested time, energy and money into your trip. So once you’re on the road, you need to do what it takes to make the most of it — rain or shine. Take a moment to pause and soak in your environment. Even in the midst of difficult circumstances, you owe it to yourself and your travel companions to find a positive outlook on the situation. The holiday season is a time when we all try to be a little more thankful. So, why not bring the thought of thankfulness on the road?

We all get excited about traveling, and we don’t want to carry the worries of home as unwanted baggage. But ironically, disruptions during travel can often create more negativity than similar situations at home. You have built up such high expectations for your travel experience, and you might expect your trip will be perfect. But don’t forget travel hiccups arise frequently. You can prepare yourself in advance by practicing a positive mindset. Appreciate the great experiences and the beauty of small moments.

No trip is without its problems, but every trip can be great if you leave the negativity at home.

“This year’s group picture will look a lot better from here.”

- Vacation From family reunions to group trips, any outing is better with a dash of a Branson vacation. Plan your next group trip at ExploreBranson.com.

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