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Three Enriching Nights in Reykjavík

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Last summer, before embarking on our cruise, we spent three nights in Reykjavík to deepen our appreciation of Iceland’s unique allure. Having visited the country before, we had yet to fully explore the remarkable natural features that define this extraordinary island. This time, we made the deliberate choice to venture beyond the city through thoughtfully selected tours. Our accommodation at the Hilton Curio Collection was ideally located near the historic heart of Old Town, adjacent to Reykjavík’s famed hotdog stand—a local institution known well beyond Iceland’s shores. Over our stay, it was apparent just how beloved this spot is, with tour groups regularly pausing for a quick bite and a dedicated queue forming at all hours. Remarkably, the stand remains open until 5 a.m., closing only after the city’s bars do—testament to its iconic status. A highlight was the “Golden Circle” tour, an eight-hour excursion that offered an immersive experience of Iceland’s captivating countryside—feat...
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Sail the Great Lakes

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  There’s a fantastic option for close-to-home cruising along the U.S.-Canadian border: the Great Lakes, five massive lakes that touch eight states and one province. The lakes are so wide and deep they would be classified as inland seas if they were filled with saltwater – instead, they are the world’s largest group of freshwater lakes. You’ll find natural beauty, fascinating history and sparkling cities along their shores. Cruise lines that sail lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Superior include Viking, Ponant, and American Cruise Lines. They use smaller ships for this summer cruise region, because they need to fit through the narrow locks and canals that connect some of the lakes. So while you’ll sail in great style and comfort, don’t expect waterparks, dozens of dining options or big performance spaces on board. A variety of Great Lakes itineraries are available; as you explore them, consider length, the number of lakes and ports visited, and the number of “lake days...
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Windstar’s New Star Seeker

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For the first time in more than 30 years, Windstar has welcomed a newly built ship to its fleet: the Star Seeker. This 224-passenger ship, the first in the cruise line’s Star Class, has some terrific features you can expect to see again (such as on Windstar’s upcoming Star Explorer , scheduled to debut in late 2026). Star Seeker made its debut in December 2025, with a voyage from Málaga, Spain, to Miami. After a naming ceremony, Star Seeker embarked on a series of Caribbean itineraries. The ship is scheduled to sail in Alaska this summer, and then move on to Asia. Some of Windstar’s yacht-like ships have sails, but Star Seeker is a motor yacht, equipped with two Rolls Royce engines. The ship has 112 cabins, each with a private veranda or floor-to-ceiling windows. Some of these windows can be opened halfway, from the top, to create a balcony effect that lets the breeze in. Every cabin is equipped with a large, walk-in shower with a rainfall shower head and body jets. There are...
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Oceania Shifts to Adults-Only Cruising

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Cruising is a great family vacation, but it’s also a lovely adults-only getaway. And, there are now more options for no-kids cruising, because Oceania Cruises just announced that it’s transitioning to an adults-only cruise line. Here’s a quick Q&A: When it comes to cruises, what does adults-only mean? It means that passengers must be 18 years or older at the time of sailing. In addition, there are no special clubs, menus or facilities for children on board; all of the spaces, dining venues, and amenities are geared to adults. Why did Oceania Cruises decide to become an adults-only cruise line? While the change is a shift in the cruise line’s policy, there won’t be much change to the passenger experience, as Oceania has never catered to children. Their research showed that its passengers value a serene, sophisticated and unhurried atmosphere, and that a considerable number of them thought the line was already adults-only. “This change isn’t about making a 180-degree shift,” ...
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Catch the World Cup at Sea

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The World Cup, soccer’s premiere quadrennial championship, will take the world stage June 11 to July 19. The tournament will be bigger than ever, with 48 teams, three host nations (the U.S., Canada and Mexico), 16 host cities, and 104 matches. And because no one wants to choose between cruising and World Cup viewing, several cruise lines have already announced that their ships will broadcast some or all matches. The specifics of onboard World Cup viewing – such as which matches will be broadcast and where passengers can watch – vary by cruise line, and possibly between ships in the same fleet. Time zone changes and scheduled port calls may affect viewing schedules, too. So, ask Anita, your professional travel advisor, to help you check World Cup broadcast details for a cruise you’ve already reserved or are considering. Here’s what we know about cruise lines that have promised to show World Cup matches on board; others may join this list before the tournament begins. Celebrity Cru...
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Spa Basics for Cruise Passengers

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In addition to exploring a different part of the world, a cruise can be an opportunity to try new things – like a spa treatment. Many cruise ships have lovely onboard spas; if you’ve never enjoyed a spa treatment before, why not try one? Here’s a quick look at what to expect. Spas are peaceful and luxurious spaces designed to support relaxation and wellness. Treatments are usually in four categories: massages, facials, body treatments, and hair/nail services. On a cruise, the size and scope of the spa may reflect the overall size of the ship. On a smaller ship, the spa may have a small (but still luxurious) treatment menu, while spas on larger ships may have numerous treatment options and special features like heated loungers, hydrotherapy pools, or a café serving healthy cuisine. As a first step, ask for a spa tour; some offer regular tours while passengers are boarding the ship and throughout embarkation day. The tour will familiarize you with the facility, staff, and treatment...
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Great Sleep at Sea

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A cruise vacation promises a break from daily life, and many passengers take advantage of the opportunity to rest, relax, and catch up on sleep. Breathing sea air, dining on delicious food, exploring ports, and doing some laps in the pool or on the Promenade Deck can all contribute to a good sleep – but, the most important contributor may be the comfort of the bed in your cabin. Of course, what’s comfortable is a little different for everyone, but the quality of the mattress usually plays a role. Cruise lines, like high-end hotels, install mattresses they hope will be pleasing to most of their guests. And, you may be absolutely delighted with the bed in your cabin, just as it is. But if you’re not, there may be ways to adjust. First – even before you make your cruise reservation – ask your professional travel advisor about cruise lines with special bedding programs. For example, Princess Cruises has its own Princess Luxury Beds. They have individually wrapped coils, which help mini...
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