Crystal Living 2018 by Sole Sastre

2018

WELCOME | CRYSTAL

Welcome

ABOARD Dear Crystal Traveler,

WE SINCERELY HOPE YOUR TRAVELS WITH US ARE ALL THAT YOU IMAGINED THEM TO BE AND MORE.

We are delighted that you have chosen to explore the world with us. Like you, we all share a passion for global adventure, authentic discovery and all-inclusive luxury, and we look forward to hosting you on this journey with the welcoming hospitality for which we are known. In your hands, you hold the second edition of Crystal Living, a gorgeous snapshot of our bespoke collection of travel experiences — Crystal Cruises, Crystal River Cruises, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, Crystal Luxury Air and Crystal AirCruises. Stunning photography and insightful articles illustrate the fascinating destinations, luxurious amenities and once-in-a-lifetime adventures unique to the Crystal Experience® — a standard of travel that continues to earn Crystal the devotion of the world’s most discerning travelers.

You can feel it with your eyes closed.

In addition to shining a light on the Evolution of Crystal Luxury and the unique standards of our own brand of service, the pages that follow beautifully marry the exploration of lands far and wide with the nuanced luxuries provided by Crystal — from what to see and do in Alaska or Abu Dhabi to what to eat in Barcelona and what to drink in Napa Valley. Take a moment to follow the Rhine River as it wends its way through Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. Learn about art, culture and adventure in Australia. And after all the discovery, find time for yourself amid the pampering comforts of our Crystal Life Spa or within the calming space of your own stateroom or suite upon the sea. We sincerely hope your travels with us are all that you imagined them to be and more. And it will be our genuine pleasure to welcome you back aboard any of our Crystal Experiences — by ocean, river, yacht expedition and air. Thank you and bon voyage! Warmest regards, The Crystal Family Crystal Cruises® | Crystal River Cruises™ | Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises™ Crystal Diamond Class Cruises™ & Crystal Residences™ | Crystal AirCruises™ Crystal Luxury Air™

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To reserve call ( toll free ) : India – 1 800 111 825 or Other Countries – 00 800 4 588 1825 Or visit tajness.tajhotels.com or contact your travel consultant.

CONTENTS 14. Evolution of Luxury CRYSTAL CONTINUES TO GROW AND EXPAND WHILE STAYING TRUE TO ITS VISION.

18. Six-Star Service

INTUITIVE AND FINELY DETAILED, CRYSTAL’S AWARD-WINNING SIX-STAR SERVICE HAS NO RIVAL.

28. Ice & Fire

THE DRAMA IN SLOW-MOVING GLACIERS AND PERPETUALLY SHIFTING DESERT SANDS WILL RENDER YOU SPEECHLESS.

44. Love of Flavor

THE DEEP CULINARY TRADITIONS IN BARCELONA ARE AS INSPIRED AND DELIGHTFUL AS THE CITY ITSELF.

60. Vintage American

TAKE A TRIP THROUGH CALIFORNIA’S WINE COUNTRY TO KNOW WHERE WE’VE BEEN AND WHERE WE’RE HEADED.

From left: Restaurant Edvard; © ROUX Olivier/SAGAPHOTO.COM/Alamy Stock Photo; Robert Harding; © Jon Arnold Images Ltd/Alamy Stock Photo

76. World of Adventure

SAIL THE CARIBBEAN SEAS FROM ONE PORT TO THE NEXT ON YOUR OWN INTREPID JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY.

90. Objects of Desire

ARTFUL PIECES OF JEWELRY, TIMELESS ACCESSORIES AND STYLE-DEFINING FASHIONS ARE TREASURES TO COLLECT.

98. Where Play’s the Thing HEADING DOWN UNDER IS LIKE GOING THROUGH A LOOKING GLASS TO FIND A WONDERLAND OF PERFORMING ARTS.

106. Nature’s Therapy

THE SEA CALMS AND HEALS, AND THAT’S WHY IT’S THE INSPIRATION BEHIND CRYSTAL LIFE SPA.

112

112. The Heart of Europe

TAKE A RIVER CRUISE THROUGH SOME OF THE MOST ICONIC CITIES AND SCENIC LANDSCAPES IN EUROPE.

Website: CrystalCruises.com PRESIDENT & CEO Tom Wolber SR. VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING & SALES Carmen Roig

11755 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 900 Los Angeles, California 90025 1501 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 501 Miami, Florida 33132 Tel: 866-446-6625

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Donald Mason EDITORIAL BOARD Sandra Buchman, Marisa Vitto, Jennifer Schott

3511 NW 91 Avenue, Miami, Florida 33172 Tel: 305-376-2021 • Fax: 305-995-8108 Website: HCPmedia.com PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER Marisa Beazel CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Giovanna Sanchez GLOBAL SALES DIRECTORS OF LUXURY ACCOUNTS Lisa Magnus and Tyler Condon SALES OPERATIONS MANAGER Jeanie Schoonmaker EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Desirée Blanco SUPERVISING EDITOR Sole Sastre CREATIVE DIRECTOR Scott Glick ART DIRECTOR Angel Hernandez PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Luisa Zelaya-Morillo DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Carlos Azevedo

GIFT SOLUTIONS W I T H A TO U C H O F G L A MO U R

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE Thomas Bardon ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR Cecilia Roca

For corporate sales, awards, and recognition products please contact: nicole.harper@swarovski.com

PROJECT & EVENT MANAGER Ingrid Martinez

SWAROVSKI - PROFESSIONAL .COM

NATIONAL SALES JAI Media International Tel: 786-547-5464 • Email: jvillar@jaimediainternational.com

An Evolution in

LUXURY CRYSTAL INVITES YOU TO TRAVEL AT A WHOLE NEW LEVEL Words: Jennifer Schott

EVOLUTION | CRYSTAL

AVAILABLE FOR BESPOKE GLOBAL TRAVEL, THE BOEING 777 WAS PAINSTAKINGLY CUSTOMIZED TO EXCEED EVEN THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF AVIATION DESIGN, FEATURING HANDCRAFTED, FULLY-RECLINING FLATBED SEATS; AN ELEGANT STAND-UP BAR AND SOCIAL LOUNGE; A TEAM OF CRYSTAL SKYE BUTLERS; AND AN EXECUTIVE CHEF. What does it take to be the World’s Best? Or to remain at the top of your game for more than two decades? At Crystal, the answer is in the company’s DNA: a commitment to perfection, passion for creativity and the confidence to explore new ideas. Innovation is the driving force behind Crystal’s stature as The World’s Most Awarded Luxury Cruise Line™. It is from this foundation that the evolution of Crystal luxury continues. By sea, river, land and air, Crystal redefines the world of luxury travel. Crystal Cruises debuted in 1990 with a singular goal: to provide the world’s finest luxury travel experience. Over the course of the next 27 years, the company was celebrated with more world’s best awards than any other cruise line, resort or hotel in history. That unprecedented performance has led to Crystal’s current brand expansion — among the most significant in luxury travel — as the acclaimed Crystal Experience can now be enjoyed aboard Crystal River Cruises, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, Crystal AirCruises and Crystal Luxury Air. This expansion draws heavily from that founding goal and presents new and exciting ways for discerning travelers to enjoy Crystal’s all-inclusive luxuries, Six-Star Service standards and enriching experiences. In December 2015, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises debuted with the boutique all-suite, 62-guest Crystal Esprit, which navigates through timeless harbors and stunning coastlines from the Adriatic to the West Indies. July 2016 saw the introduction of Crystal River Cruises with the christening of Crystal Mozart — instantly crowned Queen of Europe’s rivers — and that has been followed by four brand-new all-suite, all-balcony Rhine Class ships: Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler in 2017, and Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel in 2018. The company’s steadfast dedication to superlative standards was once again rewarded by Travel + Leisure magazine, which bestowed Crystal with two of its 2017 World’s Best awards: World’s Best Small-ship Cruise Line and World’s Best River Cruise Line. The Crystal Experience continued to evolve throughout 2017 — this time to soaring heights — when Crystal Skye became the world’s largest, most luxurious private charter jet. Available for bespoke global travel, the Boeing 777 was painstakingly customized to exceed even the highest standards of aviation design, featuring handcrafted, fully-reclining flatbed seats; an elegant stand-up bar and social lounge; a team of Crystal Skye Butlers; and an Executive Chef who prepares Michelin starinspired dishes. Because of its integrated in-house Operational Control Center, Comlux was tapped to manage, operate and charter Crystal AirCruises. “During the flight, the experienced

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Butlers recruited and trained by Comlux provide an exceptional service to each passenger,” says Andrea Zanetto, CEO of Fly Comlux. “Their savoir-faire, discretion and attention to detail contribute to creating a unique peaceful and luxurious atmosphere during each flight.” Also available for on-demand private charter is Crystal’s Bombardier Global Express XRS, which can accommodate up to 12 passengers with sleeping quarters for up to six. Future plans include Crystal Endeavor — the world’s first purpose-built, polar code compliant, luxury mega-yacht — and Crystal Residences — private homes aboard Crystal Diamond ClassTM, the company’s next generation of ocean-going ships. Even with these exciting developments, the company’s heart remains with its ocean ships Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. Both ships, Crystal Symphony in October 2017 and Crystal Serenity in November 2018, have or will undergo stunning transformations, emerging from their longest-ever renovations to feature spacious new suites and penthouses, additional dining options, an increased state-of-the-art technologies and enhanced service and space ratios. Expansive and exquisitely appointed butler-serviced suites and penthouses will replace existing staterooms on both ships. The new accommodations offer cuttingedge enhancements: large, luxury showers with body jets instead of bathtubs; and an entryway connecting two Seabreeze Penthouses (aboard Crystal Symphony) will create seamless accommodations for larger groups of families and friends. More exclusive dining options are also on the agenda, from Crystal’s own awardwinning, Michelin-level fare to hosting Nobu Matsuhisa’s only sea-going restaurants. Marketplace, a dedicated social space for dining and conversation by day, turned Brazilian steakhouse — Churrascaria — by night, will accompany the contemporary al fresco specialty Asian restaurant Silk. Waterside, the newly rebranded main dining room will usher in “dine as you desire” open seating. Forward-thinking technology features keep the Crystal Experience ahead of the curve, from free unlimited Wi-Fi to a dedicated guest Internet portal and an industryfirst showing of premiere and Oscar-nominated films. New smart TVs in every stateroom and suite offer current movies and popular television series, and streaming video allows for viewing on personal mobile devices throughout the ship as well. For Crystal devotees, the evolution of Crystal luxury is simply more of what you have always loved, only better. For those new to Crystal, it’s what you would expect from the cruise line voted World’s Best more than any other.

crystalcruises.com

Crystalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

SIX-STAR SERVICE COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE Words: Jennifer Schott

Crystalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

SIX-STAR SERVICE COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE Words: Jennifer Schott

SIX - STAR SERVICE | CRYSTAL

The superlative service aboard Crystal River Cruises, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, Crystal AirCruises and Crystal Luxury Air elevate the worldwide travel experience.

WITH AN AIR OF QUIET SOPHISTICATION, CLASSIC TREATS ARE ENJOYED WITH CONTEMPORARY FLAIR: HOMEMADE CROISSANTS AND FRESHSQUEEZED JUICE FOR BREAKFAST, WHITE-GLOVED SERVICE AT AFTERNOON TEA, AND AN ENDLESS POUR OF THE WORLD’S FINEST WINES AND SPIRITS. A warm reception and a welcoming smile. An unwavering standard of excellence from professionals who share your passion for discovery. Maybe it’s the authentic sparkle in their eyes that accompanies each passing “Hello,” or the genuine warmth in their smiles as they say, “With pleasure.” Whatever it is, the magical, intangible essence of Crystal has always been in its people. Be it a first voyage with Crystal, or one of many, the world’s most discerning travelers feel right at home upon crossing the threshold of any Crystal ship. As Remi Szutkiewicz, maitre d’hotel, so eloquently says, “Guests have told me ’heaven is Crystal Cruises,’ and that’s exactly how we want them to feel, because that’s how we feel, too.” Crystal service begins with one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the industry, delivered by European-trained professionals selected for their winning personalities and incomparable expertise. Signing on to work with Crystal, each team member is introduced to the Six-Star Crystal Basics, a multi-point credo that becomes the ethos for each individual and, ultimately, the foundation for the company’s unrivaled success. The all-encompassing philosophy addresses attitude, communication, competence, style, safety and environment, and service execution in a holistic way, cultivating a way of life more than a way to work. While the execution seems effortless, staff go to great lengths to learn each guest’s name, with personal preferences quickly identified and committed to memory: two sugars with your espresso, light cream on the side; a table for two near the window; pillows and blankets arranged to your liking. With discreet attention to even the slightest detail, every wish is anticipated and special preferences recognized and satisfied. With an air of quiet sophistication, classic treats are enjoyed with contemporary flair: homemade croissants and fresh-squeezed juice for breakfast, white-gloved

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service at Afternoon Tea, and an endless pour of the world’s finest wines and spirits — all served without a hint of pretension. Aboard the world’s most elegant ships, the Crystal difference lies in the details. It’s the Champagne chilled to perfection or the caviar served on hand-carved, mother-of-pearl with delicately buttered blinis. It’s the unspoken desire to make every guest’s wish come true. And yet despite all the immersive training and thoughtful selection of each crew member, it’s the sincere camaraderie and mutual respect among the staff that promotes a sense of easy luxury and an ambience of good-will on board, fueling what can only be called service with heart. “Happiness for me is when a guest tells me their meal was excellent and when a crew member says, ’Thank you, Chef,’” says Crystal Serenity’s Executive Chef. Hailing from around the globe, Crystal staff are happy to share their many fascinating stories of a life of exploration with guests — at sea and on shore — providing a privileged insight to the destinations, people and cultures you explore. Expect that same passion for discovery to bridge from ship to shore as well. All of Crystal’s destination travel partners are the best in their class. Carefully vetted for their knowledge, access and understanding of luxury, Crystal has ensured that your adventures in each fascinating locale are delivered to your expectations, with an added element of surprise and delight. In the air, Crystal’s partner Comlux manages, operates and charters Crystal AirCruises with the same finesse it has perfected attending heads of state, royal families and heads of major corporations. By Ocean, River, Yacht Expedition and Air, the Crystal Six-Star Service standard remains a constant, rewarding each guest with the joy of laughter, engaging stories and friendships to be treasured for a lifetime. This is truly what makes Crystal the very best in the world.

crystalcruises.com

Crystalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

SIX-STAR SERVICE COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE Words: Jennifer Schott

SIX - STAR SERVICE | CRYSTAL

The superlative service aboard Crystal River Cruises, Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, Crystal AirCruises and Crystal Luxury Air elevate the worldwide travel experience.

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crystalcruises.com

Special Promotion

THE

SEA-WORTHY STYLE FROM ONBOARD BOUTIQUES

SIMPLY CHIC FASHIONS, JEWELRY AND ACCESSORIES TO REDEFINE YOUR CRUISE STYLE, PLUS AN IMPRESSIVE SELECTION OF COVETED BRANDS, ALL WITH TAX AND DUTY FREE SAVINGS.

The definition of luxury has changed. No longer is it only about spending money to indulge in creature comforts and grown-up playthings (“Whoever has the most toys wins”). Today it’s also about spending time, whether you’re indulging in journeys to exotic ports of call or simply enjoying the memory of all that you’ve experienced during those once-in-alifetime travels. At the Crystal shops on board, you’ll find many ways to create a look that’s sophisticated and stylish, while also offering comfort and ease for every part of your journey. An assembly of fashionable looks awaits, including brands found only on board and exclusive apparel to help you remember your voyage with Crystal long after you’ve returned home. Our in-store associates will take the time to help you choose apparel, accessories, jewelry and watches that will help you make the most of your journey.

Sail away in style. A bold black dress and some bright accessories are all you need to hit the decks with panache.

PHOTOS BY KEITH LATHROP / STARBOARD CRUISE SERVICES

CRYSTAL SHOPS Fashion for the sophisticated traveler

Keep it simple and sophisticated. Prada sunglasses and Swarovski accessories create effortless glamour.

Smart and Sophisticated Seasoned travelers will attest to the fact that the best fashions for any journey should be smart and simple. Keep it casual with a few timeless wardrobe basics and accessories that, when worn together, create a polished and chic look. A smart travel wardrobe should be built on classic, understated garments. The perfect tee, a relaxed dress shirt and a lightweight jacket allow you to layer your look for easy style that works both on board and while you’re out exploring the sights. Crystal’s exclusive apparel and premium designers have tailored their collections to offer you the best in athleisure fashions. Focus on a few instrumental pieces that you can mix and match to create a travel wardrobe that is all style and pure comfort. Then you’ll be ready to include other accessories to pepper in your individual sense of style.

Casual doesn’t have to mean dressing down. A smart polo over crisp white shorts, or a deepblue dress in flattering lines, will always work.

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Essential Accompaniments Let’s take the travel bag. It’s an absolute must-have for vacation so you’ll want to invest in a well-made bag. Make it a smart, stylish pick. Maybe it’s a sumptuous leather tote with inside compartments to help keep you organized while you’re sightseeing, or a colorful wristlet for those easy days on board. A classic crossbody bag can take you from day to night without sacrificing the style you long for, with quality materials and embellished details that get noticed. When you’re shopping for high-quality collections, keep in mind that this is a bag that will last and accompany you on many future travels. The other essential accessory is a notable pair of sunglasses. Designer frames are the easiest way to add a little sophisticated elegance to your daily fashions. Once you’ve got those two pieces, you’ll want to step up your style with something that sparkles.

Try a nautical look for sharp style. She wears a Crystal Cruises tee, necklace and bracelet with a Swarovski watch. He’s comfortably cool in a tee and jacket and right on time with TAG Heuer.

Just in Time Cruising is often in celebration of a special occasion or milestone. Embrace the moment with a spectacular new watch that will get you where you’re going on time and in style. Elements like etched crystal, gemstone accents and mixed metal bands command attention and inevitably become a commemorative piece of time well spent. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you to the latest models from world-renowned designers in the watch industry. Looking for a more delicate piece to mark the milestone? Let us lead you to all that shines.

Cruise colors get a whole new palette, from rich jewel tones (top, left) to soft pastels (above). Of course, nothing shows your style like classic red (right). True-blue style: You’ll earn your fashion stripes with looks like these.

Special Promotion

The Best Reasons to Shop On Board There are so many reasons to purchase at the Crystal shops during your voyage. Here are the best ones:

Best Product You’ll find irresistible creations by some of the top brands, including collections found exclusively on board. Best Price Shopping at sea offers tax and duty free value you can’t get at home. We stand behind our low prices with our Price Match Guarantee.* Best Service We provide superior service on board the ship, with expert associates who take the time to help you make your choice. Our Customer Service Center is available when you return home.

* Price Match Guarantee If you find the identical product sold at a lower price at an authorized retailer ashore within the length of this voyage, we will gladly match the price. Simply provide written proof of the lower price. Internet pricing is excluded from this guarantee. Other exclusions apply; see associate for details.

Dazzle by Night or Day Let’s not forget the elements that catapult any ordinary outfit to super style status. It takes just one opulent crystal necklace, a pair of gemstone earrings or a noticeable cocktail ring to add an edge to your style. Not only will you stand out in the crowd but you’ll be taking home a lasting memory of your trip. You’ll relive the moments every time you put it on. The Adventure Begins As you embark on your journey, we invite you to shop a refined selection of distinctive styles from the brands you admire. Come experience shopping that’s as unforgettable as your cruise with Crystal.

Soft earth tones (above) and relaxed tropical hues (below) get you in a Caribbean state of mind.

ICE AND FIRE

From Alaska to Abu Dhabi

WHETHER ADMIRING ANCIENT GLACIERS CARVING SLOWLY

MESMERIZED BY A DESERT’S QUIET GRANDEUR, CRYSTAL CRUISES TAKES YOU ON UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEYS OF TIMELESS WONDER. Words: Jessie Gilmartin

This page: Moonlight reflects off Dawes Glacier at Tongass National Forest in Alaska. Opposite page: The Rub’ Al Khali desert’s shifting sands create a dreamlike ambience of silence and whispers.

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This page: ©Paul Souders/Getty Images. Opposite page: ©atosan/Getty Images

THROUGH SOLEMN FORESTS OR

crystalcruises.com

EXCURSIONS | ALASKA - ABU DHABI Highly compressed ice crystals are behind blue hues of the Dawes Glacier in Tongass National Forest, Alaska.

ALASKA

The last great American frontier is so many different things, but above all, the solitude and vastness are what captivate visitors for years. It also makes it quite easy to soak up every facet that is around you and realize what a special destination you are visiting. Imagine, if you will, a trip aboard the Crystal Serenity with an excursion to the Seward Peninsula, a pristine tundra habitat barely touched by humans. Here you will be on a quest to spot fascinating creatures. It’s not uncommon to find bears, wolves, foxes, moose, beavers, wolverines and even the occasional reindeer. As you snap awe-inspiring photos along the way, you stop here and there to pick blueberries. For a bird’s-eye view of the epic scenery, take a helicopter flight-seeing tour that lands on Mendenhall Glacier. Or snag quality time with sled dogs at a dog-mushing camp. Or visit a reindeer camp. These are just a few examples. There’s plenty more where that came from. Crystal Cruises prides itself in offering loads of epic shore excursions. Just ask John Stoll. He spends much of his time ziplining in the Seychelles, taking culinary tours in

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Greece and experiencing acrobatic flights aboard a stunt plane in Croatia. As vice president of land programs for Crystal Cruises, he scours the world for once-in-alifetime shore excursions that will wow cruise passengers. “I do all possible to ensure we continue to push the envelope and seek out new, unique and innovative experiences,” Stoll explains. “We try to differentiate ourselves and offer more intimate and exclusive experiences.” Case in point: Aboard larger Crystal Cruises ships, guests can sign up for Crystal Boutique Adventures. This collection of exclusive excursions is only available on Crystal Cruises. “We have found that our guests are looking for a more intimate and personalized experience,” Stoll explains. “We feature Crystal Boutique Adventures to assist us in creating customized high-end programs, which are very popular with our guests. With Crystal Boutique Adventures, the numbers [of participants] are much smaller, which gives us the ability to offer a more personalized service and include valueadded components to enhance the overall experience.”

ASK A DOZEN PEOPLE WHAT ALASKA MEANS TO THEM, AND YOU’LL GET A DOZEN DIFFERENT ANSWERS. TO SOME, IT’S ALL ABOUT THE GRAND LANDSCAPE, TO OTHERS THE DISTANT CULTURE AND TRADITIONS ARE THE MAIN DRAW, AND FOR MANY, WILDLIFE TOPS THE LIST.

crystalcruises.com

EXCURSIONS | ALASKA - ABU DHABI

Below: Despite the ever-present snow, fireweed brightens Alaska’s scenery in bold colors in the spring and summer.

tastic location

tastic restaurants

tastic spa

tastic rooms

IMAGINE, IF YOU WILL, A TRIP ABOARD THE CRYSTAL SERENITY WITH AN EXCURSION TO THE SEWARD PENINSULA, A PRISTINE TUNDRA HABITAT BARELY TOUCHED BY HUMANS. HERE YOU WILL BE ON A QUEST TO SPOT FASCINATING CREATURES. IT’S NOT UNCOMMON TO FIND BEARS,

Down to the Last Detail Likewise, Crystal Cruises considers every last detail, including what to wear. In Alaska, this is especially important, says Lorraine Betts, who works with Ship to Shore Traveler, an adventure cruise outfitter that can provide gear to outfit guests from head to toe. Passengers can rent waterproof pants and boots, which a concierge can deliver on select Crystal Cruises sailings like the Northwest Passage. Betts is a pro when it comes to being prepared. A cruise that starts in Vancouver and ends in Anchorage can experience weather fluctuations of 10 degrees or more from day to day, and rain is always a possibility.

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“Prepare for sunny days, rainy days and everything in between,” suggests Betts. “The key to being comfortable is to be prepared for all types of weather and pack lightweight, fast-drying comfortable layers that can be worn alone in warm weather or mix and match the garments based on weather conditions and personal preference. “Clothing technology has improved a lot in recent years,” she adds. “If your clothing is more than five years old, you may like to consider investing in new mixand-match layers. Adventure clothing is lighter [and] wicks moisture away from the skin better, making the garments more efficient but also more comfortable.”

©Litota/Getty Images

WOLVES, FOXES, MOOSE, BEAVERS, WOLVERINES AND EVEN THE OCCASIONAL REINDEER.

Mandarin Oriental, Miami. Perfect for a luxury break. Mandarin Oriental, Miami

500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami, FL 33131

+1 (305) 913 8383

mandarinoriental.com/miami

EXCURSIONS | ALASKA - ABU DHABI

©GJohnson2/Getty Images

An exciting and intimate way to experience Alaska’s most stunning sights, kayaks have been plying these waters for thousands of years.

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CRUISE

EXCURSIONS | ALASKA - ABU DHABI

Western Australia

WHAT TO WEAR IN ALASKA Weather in Alaska is unpredictable, even during the warmer months (May through

LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET AND/OR VEST: A fleece jacket or a lightweight loft jacket

September). Prepare for the variable weather conditions when going ashore.

that compacts and takes up a minimal amount of space are best. The loft traps

Wear layers and carry a backpack for the layers that you don’t need. Here are

heat with remarkable efficiency, even when wet.

some tips from Ship to Shore Traveler’s Lorraine Betts. LIGHTWEIGHT RAIN JACKET: At a minimum, pack a rain poncho. Ideally, CONVERTIBLE PANTS: Bring pants that zip off above the knee so they can be

purchase a jacket that is lightweight, waterproof and breathable to stay dry

worn long or as shorts. They should be a quick-drying material with UPF sun

during the sudden downpours.

protection. WATERPROOF BACKPACK: This keeps your hands free and is a convenient way to TRAVEL SHIRTS: Pack long-sleeve shirts that are UPF-rated for sun protection,

carry extra layers of clothing ashore.

antimicrobial properties to keep you bug-free and odor-free are ideal.

WALKING SHOES: And don’t forget to pack high-quality merino wool socks.

HAT: Your hat should have a wide brim and be easily packable. Preferably bring

SUN PROTECTION AND INSECT REPELLENT: Mosquitoes are most active early in

one with a chinstrap so the hat stays securely on during windy days or when you

the morning and at sunset, so use repellent and wear light-colored clothing, as

are out on deck.

they are attracted to dark colors. Consider packing a head net.

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©pchoui/Getty Images

quick drying and breathable. Shirts with fabric that has insect-repellent and

Western Australia is one of the world’s largest states, with an incredibly diverse coastline stretching over 20,000km. At any given time it feels like summer somewhere in Western Australia, but here the predictability ends.

A cruise in Western Australia brings you to the nation’s sunniest capital city, whitest beach and one of the most bio diverse landscapes on earth. crystalcruises.com Learn more at westernaustralia.com

EXCURSIONS | ALASKA - ABU DHABI

ABU DHABI While most people who travel to the United Arab Emirates may only get to see the iconic skyscrapers of Dubai, beyond the glitter lies the promise of the rest of the emirates. Chief among these: Abu Dhabi. From museums and bustling cafés to the massive sand dunes, the capital of the UAE is a place of culture, action and adventure. Sitting off the mainland on an island in the Persian Gulf, it is not only the most prosperous emirate, but also one of the wealthiest cities in the world. For those who love to live life in the fast lane, Crystal Symphony offers the opportunity to experience a glamorous and exhilarating event. As part of the Indian Ocean discovery voyage, passengers can attend the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the famed Yas Marina Circuit. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix package extends its guests privileged views of the 55-lap race. “Crystal’s Experiences of Discovery theme cruises have historically been of much interest to our guests,” says Helen Panagos, vice president of Destination Experiences. “These cruises offer enhanced enrichment, both on board and ashore, in addition to Crystal’s already robust lineup of enrichment programs.”

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As a guest, you are transported directly from the Crystal Symphony to the heart of the action at the marina via luxury coach. Once there, you have exclusive access to the Formula TEAM One Paddock Club. Crystal’s Grand Prix guests have access to the pit lane and can enjoy premium seating in the air-conditioned upper floors of the pit building. They are also treated to the customary delectable cuisine and open bar. “Abu Dhabi is an incredible destination that continues to evolve,” says Stoll. “It is a modern, state-of-the-art 21st-century city that everyone must experience; and the people are extremely friendly.” Beyond the thrill of the race, there’s so much more to do. You can book a helicopter excursion to get a bird’s-eye view of the dazzling city; come face to face with the country’s iconic birds of prey at the Falcon Hospital; or enjoy high tea at the Observation Deck at 300 on the 74th floor of the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. Boasting 360-degree views of the Abu Dhabi’s splendid skyline, from there you can see the Bedouin-inspired Heritage Village; the White Fort, the oldest stone building in the city; the lively fish market; and the sweeping waterfront Corniche.

IN STARK CONTRAST WITH THE QUIET SOLITUDE OF ALASKA, THE CITY OF GOLD LIES ON THE BORDER OF THE VAST RUB’ AL KHALI — THE LARGEST SAND DESERT IN THE WORLD.

EXCURSIONS | ALASKA - ABU DHABI

M ARTINIQUE C’EST M AGNIFIQUE us.martinique.org

WHAT TO WEAR IN ABU DHABI When venturing off the ship, it’s important to be mindful of cultural norms.

MOISTURIZER AND LOTION: Keep these handy to combat the dry desert air.

Modesty is the key to dressing in the Middle East. Also, be aware that summers are humid and daytime temperatures can soar to 100 degrees or more (with

PANTS, CONSERVATIVE SHORTS OR CAPRI PANTS: Staying away from jeans is

May through October being the hottest months), while winter weather can be

probably best.

surprisingly chilly and windy. THIN SWEATER OR LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET: It can get cool in the evenings and LONG, BILLOWY SKIRTS: These are a good option for women. And breathable

downright cold in the winter.

fabrics are the way to go for utmost comfort. SANDALS AND CLOSED-TOE SHOES: This is really a matter of preference. SHIRTS WITH SLEEVES: Arms should be at least partially covered. SUNSCREEN: No matter where you go, you should protect your skin. SCARVES OR SHAWLS: It is appropriate for women to cover their hair when visiting a mosque.

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EXCURSIONS | ALASKA - ABU DHABI

Emirates Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Abu Dhabi.

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FROM MUSEUMS AND BUSTLING CAFÉS TO MASSIVE SAND DUNES, THE CAPITAL OF

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THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES IS A PLACE OF CULTURE, ACTION AND ADVENTURE.

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“Often, these specialized voyages feature renowned thought leaders in their fields, from world-class chefs and wine experts to top performers from both stage and screen to former world leaders, military and geopolitical figures,” Panagos explains. “Golf cruises typically offer the chance to play at famed premier courses, while ballroom dance, big band and jazz cruises are immersive musical experiences. “Our robust offerings of themed cruises offer travelers the opportunity to delve further into things about which they’re already passionate,” says Panagos.

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Not only will you immerse yourself in the City of Gold during your 17-day journey through the Indian Ocean, you will also get to spend time in another emirate gem: Dubai. The ultra-modern city of beautifully designed skyscrapers is home to palmshaped islands, sprawling malls and palatial beach resorts. From there, your Crystal Symphony cruise will take you to Doha, Qatar before setting sail through the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean to the island of Mahé, in the Seychelles; exotic Nosy Bé and Maroantsetra in Madagascar; and finally Mauritius.

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FOR THE LOVE OF FLAVOR FROM TAPAS AND STREET FOOD TO

PAELLAS AND CHURROS, BARCELONA IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO HAVE A LOVE AFFAIR WITH EVERY BITE.

Opposite page: The culinary offerings throughout Barcelona are as varied and inspired as the city’s legendary architecture.

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Words: Montague Kobbé

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GASTRONOMY | BARCELONA Spain’s famed cured hams feature prominently in all kinds of tapas and other dishes.

BARCELONA There are many ways of getting to know a place — as many, possibly, as there are places — and it would be nearly impossible to rank them in any objective way. Some people enjoy shopping, others gravitate toward museums and others still prefer to engage with locals to get an insiders perspective. But they all must eat; and there’s nothing like a good meal to set the right tone for this process of discovery or even reacquaintance with any destination. Delicious Barcelona For all the delectable tableside traveling afforded by Crystal Serenity, if there is one city that merits in situ exploration, it’s Barcelona. Laid-back and fashionable, the capital of the Spanish region of Catalonia owes much of its current identity to Charlemagne’s vision for the Christian world back in the 8th century. Reclaimed from the hands of the Emirate of Córdoba in A.D. 801, Barcelona became one of more than a dozen territories along the Pyrenees that were invaded and then stabilized by Charlemagne’s forces. The end result was the creation of the Spanish March, a buffer zone protecting the Frankish part of the Carolingian Empire from invasion from the Moorish state. A true crossroads of overlapping but distinct cultures, Barcelona’s blended heritage shines through in its culinary traditions. Supremely influenced by its geography — at the foot of the mountains and facing the sea — Catalan cuisine falls within the socalled Mediterranean diet, but with a twist. Fruit and legumes play starring roles in the menu; they are not relegated to the status of mere side dishes. And sauces, such

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as alioli, romesco and xató are often the most important elements on the plate. Broad beans are a mainstay in spring, and calçot, a type of scallion, is to Catalonia what asparagus is to Germany. Catalans are also wild about peppers, as they are about a variety of mushrooms known locally as bolets. Local butchers stock extraordinary delicacies, such as botifarra — a type of sausage similar to black pudding — as well as fuet, a dry-cured pork sausage that is incredibly flavorful. It would be a tall order to get through an evening in Barcelona without tasting seafood, though: octopus or calamari; crayfish; crab or some other shellfish, such as sea urchins or the local favorite espardenya, a rare kind of sea cucumber. Even with Barcelonans’ strong affinity for all things sea related, their penchant for meat is just as dogged. Though it might sound like a contradiction or an inconsistency, it is nothing short of genius. Products from mar i muntanya dishes — a blend of flavors from land and sea that can feature chicken and crayfish or hare and king prawn — make for an absolutely heavenly combination. True to the commercial origins that turned this Mediterranean port into an influential urban center, Barcelona still boasts a large density of dynamic street markets. Visitors flock with religious regularity to the premises of the famous La Boquería market — conveniently located near La Rambla — the main pedestrianized road linking Plaça de Catalunya with the old harbor. With dozens scattered across the city, though, taking a tour through the various markets is a fascinating way to discover the city’s many diverse neighborhoods.

HIDDEN DELIGHTS AWAIT AROUND EVERY CORNER IN EVERY NEIGHBORHOOD.

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GASTRONOMY | BARCELONA

Péter Mocsonoky/EyeEm

Composed of gardens and eye-catching architectural elements, Park Güell is one of the many imprints Antoni Gaudí left on his native Barcelona.

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GASTRONOMY | BARCELONA Dining options, like the city’s Catalan modern design and architectural elements, are varied and plentiful.

TRUE TO THE COMMERCIAL ORIGINS THAT TURNED THIS MEDITERRANEAN PORT INTO AN INFLUENTIAL URBAN CENTER, BARCELONA STILL BOASTS A LARGE DENSITY OF DYNAMIC STREET MARKETS. VISITORS FLOCK WITH RELIGIOUS REGULARITY TO THE PREMISES OF THE FAMOUS LA BOQUERÍA MARKET. Santa Caterina market — just a few streets away from the gothic Cathedral of Barcelona — is an early example of the trend of regeneration of markets that has transformed much of the city over the past decade. One thing to bear in mind is that many of the markets preserve their name and little more from their original design. Thus, the vast Mercat del Born has been turned into a cultural center after staggering archaeological remains were found during its remodeling, while the beautiful Mercat de les Flors — the old flower market in El Poble-sec — no longer has blooms, but is certainly worth a visit now that it is a theater. If it’s flowers you’re really after though, you’re better off heading to the Mercat de La Concepció in L’Eixample, the 19th-century expansion of the old heart of the city. Going back to what really matters — that is, food — a quick glance at the Michelin Guide reveals a single three-star restaurant in town: Martín Berasategui’s newly renovated Lasarte. For the past 15 years it has stood out as one of the beacons of fine dining in the city. That, however, is far from the whole story. Pride of place among local chefs is undoubtedly claimed by the Adrià brothers, who have single-handedly revolutionized the world of food, not just in Catalonia. Together with the Iglesias brothers, they have embarked on the rehabilitation of the Paral·lel neighborhood of

Barcelona with the creation of elBarri, a number of connected establishments in the area ranging from the vermouth bar Bodega 1900 to the surprise dining experience at Enigma and the tapas restaurant Tickets, which was recently recognized as one of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Other notable chefs include Jordi Cruz, of MasterChef renown, whose ABaC restaurant boasts two Michelin stars; Raül Balam, in charge of Moments, the Mandarin Oriental’s exceptional restaurant; and Cristian Escribà, arguably Spain’s most famous patisserie chef. Over the past decade Barcelona has become the epicenter of the hipster revolution, with chefs spearheading the cultural scene and gaining the sort of celebrity status generally reserved for football players or rock stars. But not every meal has to be radical and restless: Away from the fickle wanderings of fashion, the long-standing tradition of the set menu remains rooted in Barcelona, even in the trendiest neighborhoods. The so-called menú del día is designed to target local workers on their lunch break, which translates into abundant and inexpensive meals with a homey feeling. So all the contrary to a three-star Michelin Guide dining experience — but sometimes that’s precisely what is needed. Halfway between the extremes of molecular cuisine and the menú del día, there are a number of restaurants of high repute in the city that have resisted the

Clockwise from top left: A turret and cross top Antoni Gaudí’s Casa Batlló; paella, which most associate with seafood, comes in many forms; the windows of Casa Batlló are irregular in shape; tapas are also quite varied. 50

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GASTRONOMY | BARCELONA

The Mirador de Colom towers at the end of La Rambla, near the sea. Take the elevator to the top for spectacular views of the city.

BARCELONA HASN’T GROWN INTO ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR DESTINATIONS IN THE WORLD — UP TO EIGHT MILLION PEOPLE VISIT THE CITY ANNUALLY — ON THE VIRTUES OF ITS DINING ALONE. temptation of shifting toward postmodern dining, sticking instead to what has seen them grow into true Barcelonan landmarks over the years. One of these is the famous Botafumeiro in the delightful neighborhood of Gràcia. Specializing in Galician seafood, it has featured prominently among the city’s culinary elite for decades. Another is the immensely popular Cervesería Catalana toward the bottom of Rambla de Catalunya in L’Eixample. It’s an ample and relaxed venue with a fabulous array of tapas and main courses, just the place to sit and take in the city. Barcelona hasn’t grown into one of the most popular destinations in the world — up to eight million people visit the city annually — on the virtues of its dining alone. Breathtakingly beautiful and effortlessly international, this regional capital is a joy on

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all levels. It has also become one of the most noted gastronomic centers in Europe, on a par with Paris and London. Discovering the hidden (and not so secret) delights it keeps in store could easily make for the vacation of a lifetime — and a succulent one at that! Commitment to Culinary Excellence At Crystal Cruises, dining is considered a journey within the journey, regardless of where your travels take you. This is true of every meal on every trip: on Crystal’s ocean and river cruises, aboard the Crystal Esprit yacht or on Crystal Skye, Crystal’s bespoke jet charter service. Even in the air, Skye is equipped with a full kitchen and staffed under the expert guidance of award-winning corporate chef Francois Van Zyl.

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GASTRONOMY | BARCELONA An aerial view of Fortress Vila Vella reveals the Badia de Tossa bay in Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava.

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GASTRONOMY | BARCELONA Antoni Gaudí’s celebrated unfinished church, the Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família is a is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Originally from South Africa, Van Zyl’s heritage and globe-trotting career combine with his love of Mediterranean cuisine to make him the ideal in-flight chef. Food has a transcendent quality that can communicate the essence of a region, inviting us to sample the soul of a culture through flavor and texture. That is why for more than 20 years Crystal Serenity has offered the critically acclaimed Wine and Food Theme Cruise. Pairing some of the most exciting chefs in the world with highly qualified wine experts, the Wine and Food Theme Cruise entertains the palate with a sublime combination of taste, bouquet and zest, resulting in a journey of ecstatic sensations. At Crystal Cruises, food isn’t just nourishment; it is an inexhaustible source of pleasure, a fundamental component of the travel experience, a matter of pride and

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also, it must be admitted, a dalliance with decadence. That is the overriding principle that brings together the ample array of dining options aboard Crystal Serenity, from the unassuming Lido Café — soon to feature the fresh produce Marketplace during the day and Brazilian-style churrascaría steak house in the evening — to the casual sophistication of The Bistro. From the sumptuous Dining Room, which now boasts the luxury of fine outdoor dining on Crystal Symphony and will on Crystal Serenity late in 2018, to the authenticity of Crystal’s specialty restaurants — Prego, with the mouthwatering finesse of Italian cuisine, and Silk Road and The Sushi Bar — every Crystal voyage offers a journey of eclectic flavors.

GASTRONOMY | BARCELONA

Tapas — popular Spanish small plates — dominate Barcelona’s menus and perfect for social outings.

LUXURY IS MAKING AN EVEN BIGGER SPLASH Port Everglades is proud to partner with Crystal Cruises ®. We welcome the reimagined Crystal Symphony and look forward to the evolution of the Crystal Serenity. Discover the power of a premier cruise port. Visit porteverglades.net or call 800.421.0188

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@porteverglades |

PortEvergladesFL |

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VINTAGE AMERICAN FROM MAGNIFICENT VINEYARDS

TO PERFECT POURS, NAPA VALLEY AND SONOMA COUNTY OFFER A DELECTABLE ESCAPE.

Opposite page: More than 100 grape varieties grow in California, including those used to make some astounding sparkling wines.

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Words: Bob Ecker

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VINTAGE | NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY

NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY CALIFORNIA’S ESTEEMED WINE COUNTRY FEATURES STUNNING VIEWS, TANTALIZING FLAVORS AND SO MUCH MORE. NAPA VALLEY Either before or after a Crystal Cruises West Coast voyage, guests may consider spending a few days in the breathtaking California wine country. About 75 minutes northeast of San Francisco, famed Napa Valley is the place to experience the good life in America. The valley is graced with picturesque vineyards, magnificent wineries, legendary dining venues and a diverse array of lovely inns and hotels. Flanked by the Vaca Mountains to the east and the Mayacama Mountain range to the west, the fertile flat valley is all of 35 miles long and two miles wide. Its hot, arid Mediterranean climate is tempered by cool evening breezes that drift in from the bay, creating the perfect environment for wine grapes to grow. Wine Reigns Supreme Internationally recognized as one of only 10 “Great Wine Capitals” in the world, Napa Valley’s vineyards and wineries are an obligatory destination for the cultured oenophile and a delightful stop for the casual consumer. World-famous wineries like Opus One, Silver Oak or Robert Mondavi Winery offer informative experiences, while the venerable grandes dames such as Charles Krug, Schramsberg, Inglenook, BV (Beaulieu Vineyard) and Beringer provide an insight into the world of winemaking. You can sample stunning wines at Shafer, Robert Biale Vineyards, Staglin Family Vineyard, Caymus Vineyards, Duckhorn Vineyards, Viader, Corison, Casa Piena or Pride Mountain Vineyards. Some wineries feature incredible views: Oakville Estates, Silverado Vineyards, Round Pond Estate, Kelly Fleming Wines, Meteor Vineyard, Cade and Constant Diamond Mountain Vineyard. Others go deeper and present fascinating wine caves

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to see, including Jarvis Estate, Cliff Lede Vineyards, Pine Ridge Vineyards, Caldwell Vineyard, Robert Sinskey Vineyards or Baldacci Family Vineyards. Some, like Quintessa (an entirely self-contained, gravity-fed facility), Quixote of Hundertwasser design or the elegant estate at Domaine Carneros offer spectacular architecture. Napa Valley is also home to a number of wineries that showcase some serious — and not-so-serious — artwork on site. Art lovers shouldn’t miss The Hess Collection, which houses a fabulous modern art museum; Clos Pegase, with its myriad whimsical statues; Mumm Napa and its Ansel Adams exhibits; and Turnbull or Markham Vineyards, which showcase vintage rock ’n’ roll photos. The recently opened Acumen has a stunning tasting room and art gallery that hosts captivating exhibits right in downtown Napa. There are also a wide array of more casual spots that serve great-tasting wines in a very relaxed environment. Locals like Trefethen, Azur, Black Cat Vineyard and Mi Sueño Winery all feel quite accessible and welcoming, even to the uninitiated. Aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, you have access to one of the most impressive collections of wine available at sea, as well as a highly skilled team of Sommeliers that can assist in understanding the nuanced distinctions of the various regions and vintages represented through complimentary seminars and tastings. Crystal’s Sommeliers and Head Sommeliers — as well as the Head Chefs — undergo a rigorous training regimen to taste and learn about the wines offered on all Crystal voyages. This unique annual program takes place right in Napa Valley, where attendees have a chance to visit many of the region’s best wineries and sample their wines so they can then share that knowledge with passengers.

Clockwise from top left: © Ian Shaw/Alamy Stock Photo; © Cephas Picture Library Ltd/Alamy Stock Photo; © Johnny Stockshooter/Alamy Stock Photo; © ROUX Olivier/SAGAPHOTO.COM/Alamy Stock Photo

Old World sophistication blends seamlessly with the heady aromas and sounds of the scenic rural landscape in California’s wine country.

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VINTAGE | NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY

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More than 427,000 acres of vines make up the over 700 miles of land dedicated to wine production in California.

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VINTAGE | NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY

While the wines are the main draw, the charming towns that make up this part of the state are destinations in their own right.

HIKING THE VALLEY IS REFRESHING AND REWARDING, AND THE MANY TOWNS

AND PARKS IN THE AREA ARE QUITE PEDESTRIAN FRIENDLY TOO.

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A Veritable Feast Dining in Napa Valley does not play a secondary role. Fantastic restaurants abound, ranging from the ultra-sophisticated The French Laundry, The Grill at Meadowood, Auberge du Soleil and La Toque to refined, wine country–casual spots such as PRESS with its tremendous Napa Valley wine list, French country Bistro Jeanty, Italian Ciccio and cozy Goose & Gander. The always lively Mustards Grill, Brix, Bouchon and Boon Fly Café are for evenings of laid-back dining that’s just as tasty. Then there’s the CIA (Culinary Institute of America) at Greystone. Presenting culinary and wine seminars, classes and demonstrations, it is a fabulous place to order a delicious meal. A local favorite is the outdoor Addendum in Yountville. Conceived by Thomas Keller, this little spot serves up the best buttermilk fried chicken anywhere — to be enjoyed at the restaurant’s picnic tables.

Many of Napa’s excellent restaurants can be found within Oxbow Market, including the Hog Island Oyster Co. The Restaurant at CIA Copia, which reopened in 2017, is a casual spot that features fresh, seasonally inspired fare made in an open kitchen. Miminashi is an intriguing Japanese-style pub, and the lively Norman Rose Tavern, along with Oenotri, Don Perico Mexican Restaurant, Zuzu, Morimoto and Il Posto Trattoria are all worth visiting. There are also more than 30 wine tasting rooms throughout the city. Spa Haven Though wine touring and tasting is the de facto sport of Napa Valley, various spas in the region have attained world-class distinction. Consider the gorgeous facilities

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VINTAGE | NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY

Wineries like Ledson Winery in Sonoma pair their wines with a bit of history and architecture.

Â© Jeronimo Alba/Alamy Stock Photo

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VINTAGE | NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY

TRAVELING FARTHER NORTH IN SONOMA COUNTY IS THE TONY TOWN OF HEALDSBURG. ONCE A LITTLEKNOWN OUTPOST, IT HAS BECOME SONOMA’S DARLING. HEALDSBURG PLAZA HAS GROWN MORE EXCITING EVERY YEAR WITH STORES AND SHOPS, WINE BARS, HOTELS AND

at the Villagio, the spa at the Calistoga Ranch, the very cool underground The Meritage Resort and Spa, the boutique and serene Milliken Creek Inn and Spa, and the intimate The Spa at Napa River Inn. Each has a distinct characteristic, but all are refreshing, professional and incredibly relaxing. Additional Attractions The Napa Valley Wine Train — winetrain.com — offers an exciting way to see and taste the region: aboard a vintage train. The cuisine on board is excellent, and the new “Rock the Rails” program treats guests to a nighttime concert. Renting a bicycle is also a great way to experience the region up close. Cycling the valley’s relatively flat terrain is an invigorating activity, and stopping at the wineries and restaurants that dot the landscape can temper any excercise you do. Hiking the valley is refreshing and rewarding, and the many towns and parks in the area are quite pedestrian friendly too. Don’t miss the famous Grapecrusher statue at the lower end of Napa Valley. And if you’d like to get a bird’s-eye view of the land, an early-morning hot-air balloon ride is peaceful, romantic and exhilarating. Combining a passion for producing some of the world’s finest wines in scenic landscapes with outstanding cuisine, activities and accommodations, visiting Napa Valley is an intoxicating pleasure. SONOMA COUNTY Larger than the state of Rhode Island and well known for its laid-back ambience, Sonoma County lays claim to numerous towns, valleys, beaches and, of course, outstanding wineries. Located west of Napa and less than an hour away from

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San Francisco, the town of Sonoma is a great place to begin a tour of the county. Historic Sonoma Plaza is the site of the Bear Flag Revolt insurrection of 1846 — look for the rock marker. This bloodless uprising led to California’s brief stint as an independent country. Nearby, you can visit the home of the last pre-American ruler of California, General Mariano Vallejo, who was captured during that event. Mission San Francisco de Solano, the last of the California missions, sits right on the northeast corner of the square. These sites, along with a handful others, are all part of the Sonoma State Historic Park. Surrounding Sonoma Plaza are several noteworthy restaurants — including The Girl & The Fig — craft and antique stores, and a superb local artisan cheese shop. But the wineries are the main attraction. Buena Vista Winery, Sebastiani, Ledson Winery & Vineyards, Bartholomew Park Winery and Ravenswood are all in Sonoma. Gundlach Bundschu makes stately wines and also offers musical performances and a good vibe. Gun-Bun (as the locals call it) sits on an exquisite slice of lower Sonoma Valley. With its grand vineyard entrance, eerie caves and welcoming tasting room, this family-run winery (since 1858) is a requisite stop for Sonoma-bound visitors. Other classic wineries in the area include Landmark Vineyards, with its beautiful outdoor spaces and great chardonnays; Benziger Family Winery; Imagery Estate Winery; and Kunde Family Winery. The luxurious Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa is considered the preeminent spa hotel in Sonoma. Another lovely retreat is the Kenwood Inn & Spa. For a uniquely Sonoma culinary experience, check out Ramekins, a down-to-earth cooking school that offers day classes at reasonable prices. The Fremont Diner, a real old-fashioned roadside diner, is close by.

Clockwise: ©MarkGuti / Getty Images; Courtesy of Crystal; ©jropelato1 / Getty Images

RESTAURANTS MAKING IT A LIVELY CENTER OF ACTIVITY.

Wine cellars, vineyards and tasting rooms all make up the delectable experience in Napa Valley and Sonoma County. crystalcruises.com

VINTAGE | NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY

INSIDER TIPS

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The Rutherford Grill offers free corkage (even if you bring your own bottle of

If you’re renting a car for your travels through Napa Valley, it’s a great idea to

wine) and is frequented by many wine industry folks. Bring a bottle, people watch,

take the Silverado Trail which runs north and south. Then cut over on various

order one of their juicy burgers and enjoy the savings.

crossroads as needed. “The Trail” gets only 10 percent of the Napa traffic,

Most Napa Valley wineries are not allowed to provide food. Some offer cheese

compared to the 90 percent that the busy, two-lane Highway 29 receives.

platters, nuts and other small bites. Remember to carry your own fresh bread (get

Farther north, Highway 128 offers a great drive through the bucolic backroads of

some at the Bouchon Bakery in Yountville), nibbles and, of course, plenty of water.

both counties.

One notable exception to this is V. Sattui Winery, which has a fabulous deli.

Most wineries in wine country close between 4 and 4:30 p.m. A few, such as

While enjoyable all year, wine country can get crowded, particularly in the

Merryvale or Mumm Napa, stay open until 5 p.m. or later. Go online for hours and

summer and fall. If your travels allow, consider a late-winter visit, which still yields

times or call ahead to find out.

excellent viewing and tasting opportunities, but with less traffic and wait times.

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VINTAGE | NAPA VALLEY & SONOMA COUNTY

Heading North Santa Rosa is the main city in Sonoma and the county seat. The home of Charles M. Schulz of Peanuts fame, since 2002 the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center has delighted audiences of all ages with all things Peanuts related, along with other attractions. This is where Charlie Brown finally gets his due. There is also plenty of shopping and dining to be had in downtown Santa Rosa. The Russian River Brewing Company is renowned as the place for acclaimed and delicious handcrafted beers. The release of Pliny the Younger ale in February has fans line up for their share. The new Beer Baron Bar & Kitchen is a worthwhile beerdriven venue, and Lagunitas Brewing Company in Petaluma, with its Little Sumpin’ Sumpin, is yet another notable find. Traveling farther north in Sonoma County is the tony town of Healdsburg. Once a little-known outpost, it has become Sonoma’s darling. Healdsburg Plaza has grown more exciting every year with stores and shops, wine bars, hotels and restaurants making it a lively center of activity. Valette is a standout restaurant that relies exclusively on the freshest, locally grown produce. In addition, all of the meats are cured on the premises, making for an exceptional charcuterie plate. Healdsburg also lies between three American Viticultural Areas (AVAs): Russian River, Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley. Winery choices in the immediate vicinity abound. Jordan is a beauty. Hafner Vineyard, Simi, Soda Rock, Papapietro Perry Winery, Ridge Vineyards/Lytton Springs and Dry Creek Vineyard are all worth visiting. Ferrari-Carano, a pretty, family-run winery has been producing killer chardonnays for some time. And then there’s the Coppola Winery in Geyserville. The Disneyland of wineries, it has a resort-style swimming pool and several full bars, restaurants and tasting rooms throughout the premises — all this with a heavy dose of the namesake film director’s screen memorabilia. It truly is a destination in its own right, and the food served throughout is simply delicious (try the Gâteau de Pommes). Other local attractions include Jack London State Historic Park, where visitors can enjoy horseback riding; the Sonoma Raceway; and various beaches. If you do make it all the way out to the Sonoma Coast, Bodega Bay and the beach hamlet of Jenner are worth a visit. The Timber Cove Resort offers charming accommodations near Fort Ross Vineyard & Winery and Flowers Vineyards & Winery. Both Napa and Sonoma Counties have so much to offer. In California’s wine country, visitors are invited to just relax, savor and take it slow to fully appreciate all its delightful charms.

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A WORLD OF ADVENTURE THE ISLANDS OF THE CARIBBEAN HAVE A TIMELESS APPEAL THAT BECKONS WORLDLY TRAVELERS.

Opposite page: A wooden pier beckons travelers into the Caribbean Sea.

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This page: eugenesergeev / Getty Images. Opposite page: Kemter / Getty Images

Words: Montague KobbÃ©

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ADVENTURE | WEST INDIES Clockwise from top: The U.S. Virgin Island of St. Thomas is one of the stops for the Crystal Symphony ; blooming flowers color the landscape in various tropical shades.

WEST INDIES Right in the northeast corner of the Caribbean, a cluster of five remarkable islands — all of them small, even by the modest standards of the Leewards — plays the unlikely role of matchmaker, as Old World meets new in these torrid latitudes. Anguilla, St. Martin, St. Barths, Saba and St. Eustatius all sit proudly — though never assuming — within a radius of 50 miles of one another. Yet despite their close proximity, few places can be as drastically different as these five spots of land. That is precisely what makes them the ideal starting point for a journey of discovery through an archipelago that strings the very boundary between romance and adventure. At the center of the group lies St. Martin, the hub of activity in what is otherwise a veritable oasis of calm. Diverse and famously hospitable, the appropriately nicknamed Friendly Island is peppered with different accents, languages, musical influences and culinary traditions, creating a genuinely cosmopolitan atmosphere. ATM machines dispense cash in several currencies, and local merchants habitually accept euro, dollar or guilder with a smile and a “thank you” — for both on the French side and the Dutch, English is widely spoken.

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Marigot, the start and end point of Crystal Esprit’s cruises, retains some of its colonial splendor thanks to the traditional West Indian architecture adorning the streets of the capital of the French half of the island; but the more adventurous can profit from a quick tour farther afield. Grand Case, just 20 minutes up the road, is the island’s culinary center, while Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side of the island, stands out as the mecca of seasonal shoppers. The Deep Blue Sea If St. Martin is made to indulge in simple pleasures, Crystal Esprit’s itinerary is designed to strike the perfect balance between the familiar and the sublime — as that is the only word that does any justice to the otherworldly settings and uncanny story behind Saba. Rising at a steep angle from the depths of the Caribbean, the small island is seductive even from afar. Though Mount Scenery, the crater of its dormant volcano, measures only 2,877 feet high, it is still the tallest point in the Dutch Kingdom. After all, they don’t call it the Netherlands for nothing.

Clockwise from top: Walter Bibikow; © Martin Harvey/Alamy Stock Photo; © dbimages/Alamy Stock Photo

FIVE ISLANDS YIELD FIVE TIMES THE EXCITEMENT.

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ADVENTURE | WEST INDIES Stingrays, among an array of other marine species, are easily encountered during snorkeling and diving expeditions in the Caribbean.

Clockwise from top: Westend61; © Radius Images/Alamy Stock Photo; © imageBROKER/Alamy Stock Photo

FOR ALL THE FUN THERE IS TO BE HAD RIDING WAVES AND BASKING IN THE SUN, THE SEA KEEPS ITS BEST TREATS UNDERWATER. IN PARTICULAR, OUTSTANDING DIVE SITES IN SALT ISLAND AND THE INDIANS CERTAINLY MERIT SWAPPING YOUR SUNGLASSES FOR A SNORKELING MASK. Saba is distinctive for many reasons: the red, green and white of its traditional houses; the island’s impeccable cleanliness; the single road carved by hand into the mountain by local builders; the intimidating airport on Flat Point; the attractive lace stitched by local women; and the equally charming gingerbread hanging from every building. But where Saba really comes into its own is under the waves. Tumbling abruptly several hundred feet below sea level, the famous pinnacles make Saba’s marine natural park the island’s most popular attraction, as well as the premier submarine destination in the region. Matching exceptional locations with blue-chip guest speakers, Crystal has hosted special events like the Jean-Michel Cousteau Theme Cruise — on board Crystal Esprit. The son of legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau and a renowned oceanographer in his own right, Jean-Michel Cousteau adds to a passenger’s experience with an

engaging and interactive presentation during which he shares his knowledge about and passion for the marine environment. The event is a marvelous opportunity certain to inform and delight. While the insight of a true expert has all the potential of being life-changing, the Caribbean Sea also holds riveting potential for those who explore it with less expertise. For that purpose, Crystal Esprit is outfitted with an impressive selection of sports equipment intended to fulfill every passenger’s ambition. From a two-person submarine to water skis, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks, these resources are a welcome amenity in the blissful waters of the British Virgin Islands, especially around Gorda Sound, an ideal location for kitesurfing and other outdoor activities. For all the fun there is to be had riding waves and basking in the sun, the sea keeps its best treats underwater. In particular, outstanding dive sites in Salt Island and

From left: Fresh seafood reigns supreme at tables from beachside huts to fine restaurants; a tour through Caribbean islands is all about kicking back enjoying life at a slower pace. 80

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ADVENTURE | WEST INDIES The lush tropical landscape that characterizes most of the Caribbean feels like stepping into paradise.

The Indians certainly merit swapping your sunglasses for a snorkeling mask — as do the hundreds of shipwrecks that crowd the coastline of Anegada, a low formation of coral and limestone surrounded by a vast Horseshoe Reef. Fable has it that in the age of privateers, Anegadans would lure merchant ships into the impossibly treacherous waters of the reef and wait for the inevitable to happen. Hundreds of years later, the result is a subaquatic treasure trove to be explored and relished. When it comes to the British Virgin Islands, one subject that cannot be avoided is the inspirational story of Foxy Callwood, whose steamy calypso and legendary beach bar single-handedly made a destination out of Jost Van Dyke as early as the 1970s. Mind you, the silky sand and crystalline waters of Great Harbour combined with the staggering views of the neighboring islands probably helped, too. Indeed, little is quite as charming as weaving your way in and out of the chain of islands that once reminded Christopher Columbus of St. Ursula’s 11,000 virgins. The Virgin Islands might not reach 11,000 in number, but as Crystal Esprit navigates its way through the waters, bypassing mysterious spots of land, the potential for magic is everywhere. Swimming Under the Volcano At their core, most Caribbean islands are either volcanic or made of coral and limestone. Guadeloupe, however, is both. Just barely separated by the narrowest of channels, the two halves of the island (or two islands, if you’re being rigorous) are poles apart: Grande-Terre, to the northeast, is flat and largely fertile; and BasseTerre, on the opposite side, is lush and mountainous, capped by the tall crater of the Soufrière volcano. The gorgeous town of Deshaies on the northern edge of Basse-Terre is the quintessential fishing village and a good starting point to explore Guadeloupe’s verdant rain forest. Despite the island’s startling beauty, however, it would be remiss to ignore the important role Guadeloupe has played in the cultural development of the region. Some of the most recognizable names in Caribbean literature — such as Maryse Condé and Simone Schwarz-Bart — hail from an island whose most famous encounter with history came when Victor Hugues was sent in 1794 to enforce the resolutions of the French Revolution, including the abolition of slavery. It is therefore fitting that the most prominent memorial of the slave trade in the Caribbean, the Mémorial ACTe, was inaugurated in Pointe-à-Pitre in 2015. If Guadeloupe is evenly poised between lava and limestone, Montserrat has had to bear the full brunt of its volcanic origins. Once known as the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean, Montserrat underwent a dramatic transformation in 1995, when its own Soufrière volcano awakened to devastating effect. In the last two decades the

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ADVENTURE | WEST INDIES

island has reinvented itself, exploiting the potential of its postapocalyptic landscape, advertising its one-time capital Plymouth as the Pompeii of the Caribbean, making a darn good lemonade out of the bitter hand fate dealt. This craftiness should come as no surprise. After all, it’s the one trait shared by all the islands — the amalgam that permeates through so much diversity in the region. The experience is no different in the comparatively flat Antigua, which keeps but a stump of its primeval volcano. Dotted with suggestive remnants of an era when plantations ruled the region, English Harbour on the southern shores of Antigua is caught between its colonial heyday and the easygoing lifestyle of locals who generously invite visitors to partake in the beauty and the wonder of their lives.

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Far from the Madding Crowd For all the exposure the Caribbean receives, there are still gems that are open secrets, exisiting right where they are best kept. Such is Nevis, once the richest colony in the world, now a sleepy island with a remarkable botanical garden, two golf courses and an array of outstanding fine-dining options. Better known for being the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton — one of the founding fathers of the U.S. — than for the quality of its beaches (a disservice to be sure), Nevis keeps a deliberately low profile to deliver a genuinely exclusive experience. Another secluded spot is the tiny island of St. Barths back in the five-island cluster on the northeast Caribbean. It has been a hot spot for celebrities and

Getty Images/©Jaminwell; Isaac Ruiz Santana

This page: A variety of sumptuous beaches line the shores of various Caribbean islands. Opposite page: Caribbean islands made of coral and limestone are often dotted with dramatic caves and caverns, both above and under water.

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AMANYARA, WHERE NATURE MEETS LUXURY

use of wood throughout the complex, highlights the natural feel of the

By Montague Kobbé

concept and promotes a visual dialogue with the surrounding vegetation; and the network of ponds and pools combine with the ocean to grant the

Neatly tucked in the northwest corner of the spectacular island of

property as a whole a perfectly relaxing atmosphere.

Providenciales — Provo, for the initiated — Aman Resorts’ Amanyara

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suggests a very particular interpretation of exclusivity, remarkable for its

Amanyara’s location, on the far end of Provo, is ideal for enjoying the

distinctive ingenuity and even more so for its breathtaking beauty. Sitting

island’s renowned marine life. The half-mile long Malcolm Road Beach is

between the white-sand beaches of the North Atlantic coastline and the

fabulously undeveloped and perfect for a casual session of snorkeling or

rugged landscape of the island’s most secluded corner, this boutique resort

kayaking. Farther out, the coral reef that gifts the Caicos its reputation

is deliberately shaped by its surroundings, emphasizing the unconventional

boasts some of the most impressive diving in the region. In particular the

appeal of the area’s arid climate instead of imposing an unwieldy vision of

North West Point’s wall, which plunges down 3,000 feet, offers a wide

luxury.

array of spectacular sites.

Spacious, simple and exquisitely natural, the compound boasts a design

And yet, after all is said and done, perhaps the best place to take in

inspired by Southeast Asian architecture, which brings together the

the sumptuous beauty that frames Amanyara is the resort’s rooftop bar.

four elements that most dramatically shape life in Turks and Caicos with

Perched so that it overlooks the sea — a privileged vantage point — you

admirable dexterity: the trade winds flow freely through the airy structures;

can easily spot humpback whales on their way to cooler waters in the

the bright Caribbean sun enhances the glass-rich buildings; a predominant

spring, or soak in all the splendor of the Caribbean’s watercolor sunsets.

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LITTLE IS QUITE AS CHARMING AS WEAVING YOUR WAY IN AND OUT OF THE CHAIN OF ISLANDS THAT ONCE REMINDED CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS OF ST. URSULA’S 11,000 VIRGINS. THE VIRGIN ISLANDS MIGHT NOT REACH 11,000 IN NUMBER, BUT AS CRYSTAL

ESPRIT NAVIGATES ITS WAY THROUGH THE WATERS, BYPASSING MYSTERIOUS SPOTS OF LAND, THE POTENTIAL FOR MAGIC IS EVERYWHERE. jet-setters for decades. Lined with fashion boutiques from the most exclusive brands in the world, Gustavia, the capital of this Caribbean Saint-Tropez, welcomes luxury yachts and A-list visitors all year round, making a stop there as much about being seen as it is about enjoying a relaxing getaway. When it comes to a little piece of paradise, however, few places can compete with Anguilla. Over the past three decades, the island has built a reputation as one of the most exclusive destinations in the Caribbean. And just beneath the surface of this sandy speck of peace and quiet, there is a growing fascination with fine dining.

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The island’s best hotels and restaurants — including the Dune on Rendezvous Bay, the emblematic beach bar owned by Anguilla’s most celebrated son, folk reggae musician Bankie Banx — are just a short drive from Sandy Ground, the crescent bay where many yachts moor. You could do worse than choosing to do nothing other than relaxing on any of the island’s beaches, for seldom does nature strike a better balance than in Anguilla’s white sand and turquoise waters. Ultimately, this might be the most fitting metaphor for the Caribbean at large: a whole miniature constellation of infinite diversity where simple is often best.

OBJECTS of Desire THERE ARE ITEMS YOU BUY, WEAR AND PUT AWAY, AND THEN THERE ARE PIECES YOU ADMIRE, COLLECT AND SLIP INTO WHEN YOU WANT TO FEEL LIKE ROYALTY.

H U BERT COLOR DI A MON D COL L ECT ION Crowned with a stunning trio of fancy princess-cut diamonds — a fancy brownish-yellow diamond flanked by a fancy light-pink and a fancy brownish purplish pink diamond on either side — this Hubert showstopper is outlined in sparkling white and pink diamonds and set on an 18-karat three-tone gold mounting.

FIOR E DI BV LGA R I N EC K L AC E One of Bvlgari’s High Jewellery pieces, the Fiore di Bulgari Ingenuo necklace features nearly a dozen cabochon-cut gems, including emeralds, rubellites, tourmalines, amethysts and rodolites, all accented with diamonds and pavé diamonds. The open-front necklace makes a bold statement in the most delicate of ways.

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Christophe Bouquet/Figarophoto

FASHION | OBJECTS OF DESIRE

L A L IQU E FL AÇON COL L ECT ION C R ISTA L With a nod to René Lalique’s inspired admiration of women’s beauty, the 2017 Limited Edition’s fine crystal flaçon revisits one of the famed glass designer’s most celebrated creations: the Bacchantes vase, designed in 1927. Handcrafted, numbered and signed Lalique France, each flaçon is sealed according to traditional technique — with a baudruchage and a gold thread around the collar — before being crowned with a stopper in the shape of an inverted cupola.

FASHION | OBJECTS OF DESIRE

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LOU IS V I T TON M A L L E COU R R I ER T RU N K

R IC H A R D M I L L E 70 - 01 A L A I N PROST

At once timeless and audacious, the Louis Vuitton trunk’s craftsmanship is what has made it a true classic, and the Malle Courrier 110 continues in that fine tradition. A hard case made of gaboon, poplar and beech woods protects plush quilted cotton lining and linen canvas trays. Lozine leather trim, golden brass locks and finishes, and the iconic monogram canvas provide the rich and sophisticated wrapping for the king of cases.

Inspired by four-time Formula One Drivers’ Champion, Alain Prost, Richard Mille’s dynamic, manual-winding RM 70-01 Tourbillon Alain Prost takes its cues from the racing legend’s current love of cycling. Featuring a tonneau case that curves away from the wrist when worn on the right hand, the timepiece is both readable and comfortable during long bike rides. The watch’s calibre, which is forged largely out of Grade-5 titanium, follows the shape of the case,

FASHION | OBJECTS OF DESIRE

BA L M A I N R ESORT W E A R With a recent flagship store opening on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, designer Olivier Rousteing offered more than a passing reference to Western inspirations in Balmainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Resort Collection. From fringed jackets to horse prints and plenty of denim, there is a decidedly American thread woven prominently into a collection that is otherwise a celebration of all things French. Consider it a high-craft invasion, as a new Balmain store is scheduled to join the more than 100 luxury boutiques at Bal Harbour Shops in Miami Beach this year.

WHERE PLAY’S THE THING FROM SYDNEY’S FAMOUS OPERA HOUSE TO PERTH’S POPULAR MUSIC FESTIVALS, AUSTRALIA IS A PLAYGROUND FOR THE IMAGINATION.

Opposite page: Sydney’s iconic opera house welcomes visitors to the harbor and into a land of otherworldy possibilities.

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Words: Rebecca Wallwork

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ENTERTAINMENT | AUSTRALIA Clockwise from top left: The Australian Ballet performs Stephen Baynes’ interpretation of Swan Lake at the Sydney Opera House; entertainment options abound on Crystal Cruises; Gold Coast is famed for its beaches and surf breaks.

THE ISLAND CONTINENT IS EVERYTHING YOU’VE DREAMED AND HEARD ABOUT. THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF SYDNEY HARBOUR AND THE REMOTE BRILLIANCE OF PERTH WILL SEDUCE YOUR SENSES. Sailing into Sydney Harbour is one of the most breathtaking arrivals on the planet. Sand-rimmed beaches, coves and inlets draw you in until you spy the iconic sails of the Sydney Opera House and the impressive arch of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. On the other side of the country, some 2,187 nautical miles away, arriving into Fremantle’s Victoria Quay is the opening act for what awaits in Perth, the capital of Western Australia. These two southern cities overflow with unique native plants and animals, incredibly fresh culinary offerings, high-end shopping options and an ever-growing number of sleek bars and lounges where you can rub elbows with the friendly locals. They also happen to be cultural beacons of the Southern Hemisphere and home to world-class art and creative expressions. Sydney Let’s start in Sydney and the arresting Sydney Opera House. The landmark was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, whose bold vision for the venue led it to be described in a report to the UNESCO World Heritage Committee as “one of the indisputable masterpieces of human creativity.” The Opera House opened in 1973 and today hosts more than 40 shows a week, attracting 8.2 million visitors a year. No matter when you cruise into Sydney, there is a performance taking place; the

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venue is home to some of Australia’s most acclaimed artistic companies, including the Australian Chamber Orchestra, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Bell Shakespeare, Opera Australia, Sydney Theatre Company, The Australian Ballet and Sydney Symphony Orchestra. The city is also home to a number of preserved historic theaters worth checking out for top performances, including the State Theatre, Capitol Theatre and Theatre Royal. Thanks to an enviably temperate year-round climate, Sydney also hosts a wide array of outdoor events. With a skyline backdrop that includes the Sydney Tower Eye (or, to locals, “Centrepoint Tower”), The Domain is a dramatic venue for live al fresco entertainment. The parkland, adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens, regularly draws large crowds for Opera in the Park during the Sydney Festival in January and Carols by Candlelight in December. Film lovers are also treated to outdoor entertainment, with the annual Sydney Film Festival, held at Parramatta Park, and Flickerfest, which takes place at famous Bondi Beach. There’s almost always an event taking place in this dynamic city. Some of Sydney-siders’ favorites include the annual Big Day Out, which draws A-list rock bands from around the world; one of the most famous gay pride Mardi Gras

AUSTRALIA

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parades; the New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration; the Night Noodle Markets in Hyde Park; and Vivid Sydney Light, Music & Ideas Festival, during which elaborate light works are projected onto landmark buildings in and around Circular Quay, including the Opera House. For late-night fun, Sydney’s jazz clubs such as The Basement and Camelot Lounge showcase local and international musicians. The Star, the city’s only casino — until the arrival of Crown Sydney in 2020 — is located just west of the central business district in Pyrmont. It’s a hot spot for gambling, dining, shopping and other activities, with some venues open 24 hours. Perth As it is in most Australian cities and towns, Perth’s natural beauty makes outdoor pursuits the most popular way to explore the city. Sandy beaches, the banks of the Swan River, Kings Park, a day trip to Rottnest Island or the Margaret River wine region, and the historic seaside surroundings of Fremantle — where the ship docks

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From the Sydney Opera House to the steel through arch Sydney Harbor Bridge, the dramatic views that surround this harbor are unforgettable.

— are all excellent ways to enjoy your taste of Western Australia. But Perth, one of the country’s fastest-growing cities, offers plenty of diversions high in cultural content, too. The state’s largest performing arts company is the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, which is based at one of the nation’s finest music venues: the Perth Concert Hall. In addition to its renowned acoustics, the hall is considered a prime example of the “brutalist” mid-century architecture style, which relies heavily on raw materials like concrete and brickwork. It was designed by architects Jeffery Howlett and Don Bailey, and opened in 1973 to immediate acclaim. For more live music, across genres, Perth has numerous pubs and intimate spaces like The Ellington Jazz Club, where you can catch blues, soul, folk, rock and R&B acts. Fremantle Arts Centre has a haunted history (the building was a mental institution in the 1800s), as well as some fantastic spaces for live music, including a courtyard, garden and expansive lawn. In the summer, you can enjoy the free concert series.

When it comes to ballet and opera, the place to be in Perth is His Majesty’s Theatre, or, as locals call it, “the Maj.” This historic venue opened in 1904, and the horseshoe-shaped design of its interior creates less distance between stage and audience for a more personal show experience. The Maj is where you can see performances by the West Australian Ballet and West Australian Opera, plus a robust lineup of plays, musical performances, comedy and dance. Perth’s newest theater space, the State Theatre Centre, opened in 2011 and includes the 575-seat Heath Ledger Theatre (named for the late actor, who was born in Perth), a 234-seat flexible Studio Underground and an outdoor events space. State Theatre Centre is home to the Black Swan State and Barking Gecko theatre companies, as well as Co3 Australia, the state’s preeminent contemporary dance company. Even newer is Elizabeth Quay, a multiuse waterfront space situated on the banks of the Swan River. Opened in January 2016, it is home to eateries, a water park, public artwork and open spaces ideal for outdoor entertainment. More buildings

are being added as the city works to draw more locals and visitors to this revitalized area of central Perth. An earlier example of this riverfront rejuvenation is Crown Perth, the city’s casino, which first opened on Burswood Island in 1985 and has since been expanded several times. Today, Crown offers a slew of coin-operated and table games, live theater and concert headliners, and, of course, high-end dining options, a hotel and spa. Onboard Entertainment The fun is not limited to what takes place on shore in Australia, of course. A Crystal Cruises voyage is your invitation to a world of unparalleled culture and entertainment — right on board. For the kind of trip worth bragging about, Crystal’s Theme Cruises make for unique picks; and the lineup is heavy on exceptional entertainment options. On Film & Theatre cruises, you get to enjoy some of the most beloved classics of cinema and theater along with guest speakers and experts who guide you through the selections with insightful lectures and Q&A sessions.

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ENTERTAINMENT | AUSTRALIA Entering Sydney Harbor aboard Crystal Symphony offers privileged views of the city’s famed Opera House.

THE NEW STARLITE CLUB ABOARD CRYSTAL SYMPHONY SPARKLES WITH WALLS LIT BY SWAROVSKI CRYSTALS. ON CRYSTAL SERENITY, THE STARDUST CLUB IS A GREAT STAGE FOR DEMONSTRATING YOUR MOVES. This behind-the-scenes access is also available on themed Crystal on Broadway cruises, which invite cast members and creatives from top-tier companies and shows to Crystal’s ships. Backstage comes to you, in the comfort of your ship’s intimate venues, with performances crafted by multi-Tony Award®–winning Broadway producer Kevin McCollum. Meanwhile, Jazz Days & Cabaret Nights cruises are a great choice for music fans looking to dive deeper into the world of jazz, learn the ins and outs at enlightening lectures and enjoy the real deal at live performances by some of the genre’s top acts. If you’re more inclined to hit the dance floor than watch from the audience, add a Big Band & Ballroom Dance cruise to your to-do list. These voyages give you the chance to rumba, cha-cha and tango with the best in the biz — sensational dance instructors, as well as renowned ensembles and bands. These cruises also feature live big band performances, from acts like the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, and guest lectures provide intriguing insight from music and dance pros. Of course, once you’ve mastered new steps and nailed a routine, you’ll want to test it out. The new Starlite Club aboard Crystal Symphony sparkles with walls lit by Swarovski crystals. On Crystal Serenity, the Stardust Club is a great stage for demonstrating your moves, before or after dinner. Palm Court is also a lovely venue for evening dancing, and if you’re into the latest chart-toppers, you can try your moves at Pulse, the high-energy dance club aboard Crystal Serenity. And on the nights you want to give your feet a rest, there are evening stage performances

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aboard both ships, including exclusive productions like Rent, In the Heights and Motown: The Musical. The artists and experts set for this exciting program hail straight from Broadway, offering Crystal guests the high-caliber entertainment, enrichment and insider viewpoints they have come to expect when they are aboard a Crystal ship. The Broadway hits join a lineup of other excellent shows, like The Tourist, Imagine and 6/8 Café: A Jukebox Musical, which puts a new spin on your favorite tracks that span from the 1960s to the 1980s. There’s plenty to keep the night owls occupied, too, including Vegas-style gaming in the Resorts World at Sea Casino. Enjoy the action of table games like Blackjack, Craps and Roulette beneath glittering chandeliers, or settle in and try your luck at slot or video poker machines. Upon request, passengers can also try their hand at Three Card Poker, Ultimate Texas Hold ’em and Mini-Baccarat. Guests can choose to establish a line of credit prior to cruising or take advantage of the casino shipboard advance, which allows them up to $300 per person, per day (up to a maximum of $3,000 per cruise), charged to their shipboard account. Regardless of how you choose to get your entertainment aboard a Crystal Cruise, you are sure to have the time of your life. The cultural and artistic performances throughout Sydney and Perth — as well as those on board Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony — are a safe place to start. In fact, they’re a sure bet.

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Nature’s

THERAPY CRYSTAL’S ONBOARD SPA OFFERINGS PROVIDE THE ULTIMATE LUXURY AT SEA. Words: Shayne Benowitz

WELLNESS | CRYSTAL With it’s soothing hues and lulling sounds, the ocean plays a starring role in all the treatments and therapies at the Crystal Spa.

OCEAN WATERS

FOR CENTURIES, AND THROUGHOUT DIFFERENT CULTURES, PEOPLE HAVE SOUGHT OUT THE PEACE AND TRANQUILITY OF THE OCEAN FOR ITS HEALING QUALITIES TO CURE THEIR VARIOUS AILMENTS — WHETHER PHYSICAL, MENTAL OR SPIRITUAL

Crystal Life Spa and Salon The Crystal Life Spa provides the perfect remedy following a day of activity. While visiting the only feng shui–inspired spa at sea, indulge in a holistic menu of pampering massages, body treatments and facials within a spa facility that features ample ocean views. Prior to treatment, unwind in the sauna or steam room and then move on to the relaxation lounge or outdoor patio garden that overlooks the ocean.

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The Crystal Life Spa also offers guests Eastern therapies such as Chinese herbal medicine consultations and acupuncture treatments. These healing practices address everything from seasickness, pain management and insomnia to weight gain and anxiety. “Incorporating holistic and healing rituals to enhance the mind, body and soul, our spa programs are particularly timely,” says Crystal’s Vice President of Hotel & Design Services Alexandra Don. “Now, more than ever, luxury travelers appreciate a wide range of choices and a soothing vacation environment.” Crystal’s renowned Medi-Spa provides results-oriented treatments by a licensed physician. Return home from your cruise looking youthful and refreshed after dermal filler or targeted fine line or tightening treatments. You can also brighten your smile with a tooth whitening service from GO SMILE™. From the doctor’s office to the beauty parlor, the Crystal Salon’s full range of services includes haircuts, styles, blowouts, and waxing and grooming services to get you gorgeous for a lavish dinner at Silk Road followed by dancing at Palm Court. Gentlemen too indulge in the premier barber services available, including express shaves, beard trims, haircuts and deep cleansing treatments. The salon also offers superb manicures and pedicures, and a full range of lash applications — from express strip lashes to LVL Enhance individual lashes that last up to six weeks. Keith and Anne Marie Steiner, Crystal Society Members since 2002 who have embarked on more than 80 Crystal voyages, love getting pampered at the Crystal Salon, especially during a lengthy World Cruise. “We’ll go in together to get our hair done,” says Mr. Steiner. “There are so many nice venues on the ship where it feels good to have a clean shave and a haircut.” Beauty Offerings Highly esteemed, Sisley beauty products provide the ultimate in skin rejuvenation, healing properties and anti-aging benefits. The French company utilizes nature’s own unique qualities to create top-of-the-line formulas. “Hubert d’Ornano, Sisley’s visionary entrepreneur, thought that plants’ vital energy, their capacity for

Those pursuing the rejuvenating powers of the ocean, plus one-of-a-kind treatment and care, can find the cure they seek on board Crystal Cruises. Inspired by this quest for harmonious balance, Crystal created its enriching Experiences of Discovery® theme cruises, a collection of voyages on select itineraries that taps into the curiosities and passions of our well-traveled guests. Among the most popular is Crystal’s Mind, Body & Spirit voyages, which are designed to complement the awardwinning offerings at the feng shui–inspired Crystal Life Spa and Salon and the oceanview Fitness Center available on every Crystal cruise. When you embark on a Mind, Body & Spirit theme cruise, your journey is enriched by the expertise of health and wellness experts on board. These professionals join Crystal’s own experienced team to lead daily workshops, lectures and presentations with topics that include Aging Healthfully, Stress Management, Sleep Improvement, Anger Management and Positive Lifestyle Changes. Visiting experts hail from such distinguished institutions as the Cleveland Clinic, Pritikin Longevity Center and the Tai Chi Cultural Center. These informational presentations are in concert with the wellness programming from the spa and fitness center, which includes meditation, yoga and acupuncture, as well as uplifting physical activities, such as Crystal’s exclusive Walk-On-Water WOW® program — designed by fitness expert Debbie Rocker featuring a weighted WALKVEST® — and the Nordic Walking Program, which has participants rely on lightweight poles for stability and balance while they traverse the Promenade Deck and soak in the natural beauty all around.

WELLNESS | CRYSTAL

HIGHLY ESTEEMED, SISLEY BEAUTY PRODUCTS PROVIDE THE ULTIMATE IN SKIN REJUVENATION, HEALING PROPERTIES AND ANTI-AGING BENEFITS. regeneration and adaptation, their protection systems and their fragrances could be used for the skin’s beauty,” says José Ginestar, scientific director at Sisley. “Since 1976, Sisley has drawn its inspiration from the very heart of the plant and has established itself at the forefront of phyto-cosmetology,” says Ginestar. “We currently have more than 150 different plants, coming from all over the world, in our catalog, and each plant extract is a concentrate of naturality and technology.” The brand’s most successful product, Sisleÿa Global Anti-Âge, was updated in 2016 to accommodate behavioral aging with Sisleÿa L’Intégral Anti-Âge. “Since the launch of Sisleÿa Global Anti-Âge 17 years ago, we have never stopped our research in the field of aging. We were always looking for the great discovery that we have found in epigenetic. This great discovery is the starting point to the renewal of Sisleÿa. Indeed, the launch of Sisleÿa L’Intégral Anti-Âge has been inspired by epigenetic and by the last researches in this field.” Exclusive River Cruise Offerings Guests aboard Crystal River Cruises will enjoy Daniele de Winter products exclusively at the Crystal Life Spa. This luxurious Monaco-based line focuses on holistic beauty through its InsideOut Beauty system, which combines high-performance botanical skin care and spa therapies with supplements to actively stimulate cellular regeneration and naturally optimize youthful-looking skin. With a focus on mature skin, deW InsideOut Beauty nourishes and protects skin from inflammation and free radicals, which cause premature aging. The daughter of Dr. Jan de Winter, a highly respected cancer prevention specialist, Daniele published her first book, Eat Yourself Beautiful, at age 21 while working on the science of cellular rejuvenation at his clinic. The book became an international sensation, cementing her reputation as an authority in beauty and wellness and leading to the launch of her own line of products. Derived from 100 percent natural ingredients, her products are free of parabens, artificial colors and fragrances. Instead, they are loaded with antioxidants, omega 3s, algae, coconut and other organic ingredients. In addition to the line of cleansing milks, toners, serums, oils, creams, exfoliants and face masks used at the Crystal Life Spa, Daniele has also engineered a line of supplements, including ChocBeauté. These superfruit chocolates — made with 85 percent cacao — are formulated to improve skin tone, protect against free radical damage and smooth the complexion in the most delicious way. Pure Staterooms and Pillow Menu Program With Crystal, your wellness retreat begins right inside your room, with the cruise industry’s first-ever ultra-luxe hypoallergenic staterooms. In conjunction with PURE® Marine Solutions, sister company of leading allergy-friendly hospitality

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Premier products from Sisley and Daniele de Winter, along with the most modern facilities, are the backbone for the soothing treatments and therapies at the Crystal Life Spa.

innovator PURE Global, a number of Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony staterooms are now specially treated hypoallergenic indoor environments. “After thousands of PURE Allergy-Friendly Rooms had been successfully installed in hotels in several parts of the world, we created a dedicated, New York–based, marine organization. We immediately reached out to Crystal Cruises, being the undisputed leader in the luxury segment of cruising, to launch our award-winning wellness amenity at sea,” explains Antony Papageorgiou, president at PURE Marine. Staterooms undergo a rigorous seven-step process to eliminate 99.99 percent of impurities — including ultra-fine particles — from the air and surfaces. Thereafter, technicians perform scheduled maintenance in these PURE Staterooms every six months. For guests who suffer from allergies, those who have mild respiratory issues such as asthma or those who simply desire a respite from the fluctuating air quality in a number of port cities around the world, these newly treated staterooms are a breath of fresh air. In collaboration with Custom Comfort Mattress, Crystal Cruises has introduced an exclusive Pillow Menu to ensure the ultimate choice and comfort for every guest. While beds come standard with Egyptian cotton sheets, king-size goose down pillows and feather bed toppers, this new menu offers additional pillow options. Whether guests simply want more pillows piled atop their bed or need a specific kind of pillow from the menu, Crystal will accommodate every request. The Pillow Menu includes hypoallergenic king or standard pillows filled with down-like poly fiber; firm standard pillows made of 95 percent feather and 5 percent down; 100 percent goose down standard pillows; therapeutic poly fiber standard pillows with head and neck indents; and round neck pillows filled with isotonic elastic foam for neck or lumbar support. Golf and Fitness For those looking to strengthen their swing, Crystal offers a unique Golf Academy at Sea program, as well as Golf theme cruises, featuring golf lessons at the driving range with a PGA pro, rounds of play at ship destinations worldwide and unique gifts. The state-of-the-art Fitness Center appeals to a wide range of disciplines with a variety of equipment with mat Pilates classes, Spinning®, Kinesis™ systems, yoga, Tai Chi, boot camp and Zumba®. For a customized approach, guests can take advantage of personal trainers, nutritional consultants and metabolism testing. Guests can also consider a series of fitness seminars that include topics like Detox for Health and Weight Loss, Secrets to a Flatter Stomach, Eat More to Weigh Less and Relieving Back Pain. Meditation and Tai Chi classes offer guests a pathway toward the benefits of a mindfulness practice, which can prove to be transformative. With all of these elements, a cruise with Crystal leaves you restored and rejuvenated.

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INTO THE HEART OF EUROPE MAKING ITS WAY PAST THE NETHERLANDS, BELGIUM AND GERMANY, THE CRYSTAL CRUISE DOWN THE RHINE RIVER TRAVELS THROUGH HUNDREDS OF YEARS OF HISTORY, ART AND CULTURE.

Castles, churches, small towns and vineyards line the Rhein River.

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Words: Andrew Printer

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GERMANY To embark on a Crystal River Cruise through Europe is to experience unparalleled luxury aboard an award-winning Rhine Class ship, while immersing yourself in the fascinating local culture and history of the cities you visit. Christened in August 2017, the brand-new Crystal Bach embarks on 10- and 14-day Rhine River cruises to ports of call in medieval villages and modern cities from Germany and Switzerland to Belgium and the Netherlands. Named for legendary German composer Johann Sebastian Bach, it is the industry’s first all-suite, all-balcony, all-butler river ship, and it has three sister ships — Crystal Mahler, and Crystal Debussy and Crystal Ravel to be christened in 2018. Crystal Bach is the company’s first-ever new build river ship, which gave designers, builders and engineers the exquisite opportunity to go beyond what was until then labeled “the best” and create a superlative river cruise experience that is truly unprecedented. The sleek new vessel is also the industry’s first to feature all room categories positioned above the waterline. All rooms feature king-size beds in multiple floor plans, including two-bedroom Crystal Suites, River Suites Deluxe and Petite Suites designed with chic mid-century furniture and panoramic balcony windows. The

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nimble vessel holds just 106 guests and a crew of 68, ensuring an intimate travel experience and personalized service. Onboard Experience Rhine River cruises aboard Crystal Bach are augmented with destination-focused enrichment and entertainment, including an onboard lecture series by renowned destination and regional affairs experts who share their knowledge, insights and insider tips about each port of call. Guests also enjoy amenities like the Crystal Life Spa, a library, hydraulic sundeck bar and Fitness Center with TechnoGym equipment and daily yoga classes. Of course, dining aboard Crystal River Cruises is an unparalleled delight, with its multiple dining venues and Michelin-starred Culinary Experience. But beyond the culinary pleasures available on board, Crystal Bach guests also have the satisfying option to dine at a hand-picked, Michelin-starred partner restaurant in select destinations. The sheer variety of superlative services, exclusive amenities and thoughtfully curated activities offered by Crystal River Cruises were the criteria that earned it Best River Cruise Line recognition from Travel + Leisure magazine in 2017.

Crystal River Cruises navigate past timeless cities and bucolic towns, offering superlative services along the way.

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The 11th-century hill-top Reichsburg Cochem castle dominates the landscape and offers panoramic views from its restaurant.

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CULTURE | RIVER CRUISE Stops along the Rhine River range from classic Dutch windmills and spellbinding cathedrals to lively biergartens.

RHINE RIVER CRUISES ALSO MEANDER DOWN THE SCENIC MOSELLE RIVER TO THE STORYBOOK VILLAGE OF COCHEM. NESTLED ON A LUSH, VERDANT BEND, COCHEM IS HOME TO CHARMING HALF-TIMBERED HOMES, VINEYARDS ON TERRACED SLOPES AND THE STUNNING REICHSBURG COCHEM CASTLE WITH SWEEPING PANORAMAS.

Onshore Experiences On a Rhine River cruise aboard Crystal Bach, guests get to traverse the Rhine from the North Sea in the Netherlands through Belgium to the Moselle River and then along southwest Germany around the Black Forest with a port of call in Basel, Switzerland. Covering a wide expanse of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, the entire region is a treasured UNESCO World Heritage Site that is dotted with castles, medieval villages and vineyards. Guests will enjoy a wide range of cultural experiences, both aboard the ship and during shore excursions, several of which are complimentary.

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Germany With nine ports of call, the majority of the Rhine River cruise is spent exploring Germany. From Cologne, with its famed cathedral, to Breisach and the nearby Black Forest, Germany is a study in divergence. Modern cities crowded with some of the world’s best known luxury car brands give way to small towns that look like they came straight out of a fairy tale. In fact, this is the very scenery that served Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm so well. Many of the stories with which we have grown over centuries now were set in these very villages and forests. Highlights of Germany include Cologne, considered the cultural capital of this part of the country. There, guests can visit the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum and Museum Ludwig. The former specializes in fine art from the medieval period, while the latter is a beacon of modern art. A visit to this medieval city is not complete without marveling at the twin-spired Gothic masterpiece that is the Cologne Cathedral. The most visited landmark in in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral that took several centuries to complete was almost completely obliterated during World War II. While there, do as the Germans do and indulge in the national beverage: beer. In Cologne, that means Kölsch. Visit a Kölsch Brauhaus for a satisfying taste of the pale lager paired with typical German fare, including brauhauswurst.

Cologne is also an excellent departure point for Düsseldorf, Germany’s fashion capital. Tour boulevard Königsallee, which is lined with flagship luxury boutiques. The cruise meanders down the scenic Moselle River to the storybook village of Cochem. Nestled on a lush, verdant bend, Cochem is home to charming halftimbered homes, vineyards on terraced slopes and the stunning Reichsburg Cochem castle with its sweeping panoramas. It’s the perfect little village to explore by foot or on a bicycle. It’s also the ideal place to visit Moselle wineries. Stroll through vineyards and enjoy some wine tasting as you learn about the local grapes and winemaking traditions. From Cochem, you can embark to Trier, the oldest town in Germany, where you will find the largest Roman city gate still standing north of the Alps. With an overnight stop in Rüdesheim, guests can fully immerse themselves in the dramatic Rhine Gorge and the region where Riesling wine has been produced for centuries. The Signature Crystal Event, an exclusive classical concert by La Finesse String Quartet, is held in Rüdesheim inside the Eberbach Monastery, an iconic 12th-century Gothic abbey and wine estate. Ashore you can visit wineries on Crystal’s vineyard hike, which is topped off with a picnic and a wine tasting with local viticulturist Susanne Breuer. There’s much to see in Rüdesheim, from Reichenstein Castle and the Lennebergwald forest to a cable car ride up to the Niederwalddenkmal monument, which was dedicated to the unification of Germany and offers sweeping views of the valley. The port village of Kehl, Germany, is located just across the Rhine from Strasbourg, France, the capital of the Alsace region and the seat of European Parliament. From its breathtaking Gothic cathedral — the tallest in France — and the lovely Grand Île and Petite France district to the Palais Rohan museum, Strasbourg holds a treasure trove of discovery. Crystal Bach guests can choose to explore the city by foot or via small boat, cruising the city’s canals. There’s perhaps no greater experience than a private tour of the Strasbourg Cathedral paired with an exclusive organ recital. Guests marvel at the late Gothic architecture and

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breathtaking interiors of the basilica as they are guided through the private crypt and past the ancient clock and master works of art that hang inside before being treated to the sublime notes of the grand organ. Nestled between the towns of Colmar, France, and Freiburg, Germany, and surrounded by the Black Forest, picturesque Breisach is the southernmost port of call on a Crystal Rhine River cruise. There’s plenty to discover within the town itself, but it’s also an ideal spot to stage a day trip to Colmar, along the Alsace Wine Route. A more revved up day trip includes the Schlumpf Collection, a car museum near Mulhouse, France, which houses the world’s largest collection of Bugattis. Still, the Black Forest is perhaps the most captivating part of Breisach, and guests can embark on a self-guided bicycle tour to explore the verdant fields, pristine lakes and beech-covered hills of this fabled wood. They can also arrange a visit to the Black Forest Open Air Museum, whose historic farmhouses date back to the 1500s. Netherlands Most Rhine River cruises either embark or disembark in Amsterdam, including an overnight stay, so guests have plenty of time to explore the lovely 17th-century Golden Age capital known for its many canals, world-class art museums, ubiquitous cyclists, cobblestone streets and tulips. The Van Gogh Museum is a great place to start for lovers of Impressionism and casual art observers alike. The Rijksmuseum covers about 800 years of Dutch art and history with more than 8,000 objects in its permanent collection, including works by Rembrandt, Hals and Vermeer. Whether it’s visiting the Anne Frank House or touring the historic Jewish quarters, Amsterdam also offers a rich Jewish history that dates back more than 400 years.

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Situated along the Waal River near the German border, Nijmegen is an enchanting waterfront city with an intriguing history. On a walking tour, guests learn about ancient Roman ruins that date back 2,000 years as well as the city’s role in World War II. The Kröller-Müller Museum is home to the second-largest collection of Van Gogh works in the world — after the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam — and also exhibits works by other masters such as Monet, Seurat, Gauguin and Picasso. Guests can to take off to the Dutch countryside from Nijmegen with a trip to the Gelderland hills and valleys on a self-guided bike tour. Belgium Dating back to the Middle Ages, Antwerp is a fashionable Belgian city renowned for its Diamond District. It’s where approximately 85 percent of the world’s diamonds are traded. Celebrated Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens’ home was transformed into a museum dedicated to his works. Antwerp’s ornate Flemish Renaissance architecture is on display everywhere. A walking tour will guide you through cobblestone streets and lovely squares with stops at Rubens House or the ModeMuseum of fashion design. From Germany to Belgium and on to the Netherlands, you’ll disembark fully immersed in the region with memories of classical concerts inside 12th-century monasteries, Riesling tastings in ancient vineyards and fine art masterpieces at some of the world’s most captivating museums — not to mention the unforgettable moments you’ll get to share with your loved ones. A Crystal River Cruise is truly the best way to discover the European countryside and all its bounty in the lap of luxury.

Clockwise from top: © Hemis/Alamy Stock Photo; © Brad Mitchell/Alamy Stock Photo; © Jon Arnold Images Ltd/Alamy Stock Photo

The Rijksmuseum houses a number of Dutch masters including some of Rembrandt’s most famed works.