Global Travel News

With 2024 being the first year that the entire world has fully reopened all its borders since the pandemic, there’s no shortage of places to travel. With this in mind, bigger and bolder are trending for 2024, says tour company Abercrombie & Kent, with travellers embracing long-haul destinations and travelling for longer to really get under the skin of new cultures through ever-more-immersive experiences – the new luxury.

And many are seizing the day, keen to be first to go to bucket-list destinations before everyone else does, says A&K.

“We are seeing more and more travellers wanting to really push the limits in 2024 and take the long-haul trips of a lifetime they’ve been dreaming about for a long time,” says, Founder and Abercrombie & Kent founder Geoffrey Kent. “Australia is back in business, while Kenya, Costa Rica and Antarctica are proving hugely popular with families. In fact, cold climates are the surprise new trend. And at the top of everyone’s wish list for 2024 is Japan.”

But as Japan’s popularity soars, savvy travellers are heading away from the bright-light-big-cities to find the ‘real Japan’ in certain lesser-known regions (more on those below). Others are looking to beat the crowds by heading to remote islands and little-visited wildernesses for truly intrepid adventures – from the deserts of the Arctic and Antarctic to the Sahara Desert in Morocco.

Here is A&K’s curated list of insights, travel trends, and 18 top destinations to watch in 2024:

EUROPE

Norway: For all the recent Scandi obsession, Norway remains the least explored of the trio. But record temperatures causing more holidaymakers to look north, it won’t stay that way for long. Many come to see the dramatic fjords and beautiful landscapes from sustainably minded, architect-designed wilderness lodges (keep an eye on the futuristic, energy positive Six Senses Svart hotel under construction), others come to tap into Norway’s trendsetting, health-boosting ice bath and sauna culture. But there are plenty of curious new attractions in its cities as well.

For a start, the tiny Arctic Circle city of Bodø (jumping off point for the Lofoten Islands) has been marked out as European Capital of Culture for 2024, which means a gamut of light festivals and land art, a Sámi theatre trilogy, and a fish-themed opera. In the capital Oslo, design hotel Sommerro (Art Deco interiors; rooftop restaurant) added its ultra-private 11-suite Villa Inkognito in April. The Munch Museum – rising, rippling in glass and aluminum on the Bjørvika waterfront – slipped in equally quietly during the pandemic, housing 26,000 of the artist’s works (including versions of his most famous, The Scream). A progressive, always-surprising Scandinavian star.

Paros, Greece: Paros is the new Cyclades sensation. Although only a short ferry ride from Mykonos or Santorini, Paros feels a million miles from the pulsating beach clubs of its neighbours. The lack of an international airport will keep it that way, although a gentle ebb of chic new hotels are drawing more in-the-know Greek island hoppers alongside the established crowd of European villa owners. Chilled-out Cosme, a 10-minute walk from the buzzy fishing harbor of Naoussa, is the sister hotel to game-changing Parilio near the sandy coves of Kolymbithres beach, while Avant Mar brought Nobu-restaurant glamour to the island this summer. Windsurfers will love the Meltemi winds that sweep across the south-east coast; culture-seekers love the arty hilltop villages and ancient monasteries. And everyone loves those spectacular, soul-soothing sunsets. For an offbeat side-trip, hop on the boat across to lo-fi Antiparos.

Slovenia: Sandwiched between the holiday honeypots of Italy and Croatia, it’s a mystery how Slovenia has remained so defiantly under-the-radar. It’s not for lack of good looks, running from the stunning Soča Valley with its vivid aquamarine river to the soaring Julian Alps and ever-so-pretty Lake Bled; while the capital of Ljubljana is pursuing a bold sustainable vision. The country’s food, too, is increasingly on the agenda: Slovenia got its own Michelin guide in 2020, and chef Ana Roš and her two-star countryside restaurant Hiša Franko remain the standard bearers for the area’s micro-local, forager-to-table cooking. This is Europe’s best-kept secret.

Paris: Paris is always a good idea – and never more so than in summer 2024, for the Olympic Games. As the French capital limbers up to light the Olympic cauldron, its hotel scene has been on a sprint of high-vaulting openings: opulent Le Grand Mazarin, all tapestry bed canopies and leopard-print upholstery; whimsical floral-filled La Fantaisie; sleek Hôtel Dame des Arts on the Left Bank; Belle-Époque-style townhouse Maison Proust in the Marais. The Seine is at the heart of Paris’s Olympic plan: for the opening ceremony flotillas will cruise through the city along the river, while triathlon swimmers are set to dive in from the ornate Pont Alexander III. There’ll also be fencing at the glass-roofed Grand Palais, beach volleyball beside the Eiffel Tower and various horsey events out at Versailles. Athletics aside, there’s news for gourmands, too: 400-year-old Paris institution La Tour d’Argent is back, dishing out its famous pressed duck with golden Seine views.

Saint Helena: Known among history buffs as the site of Napoleon’s second exile following his final defeat in 1815, Saint Helena is going to spark much wider appreciation with the release of Ridley Scott’s epic historical drama Napoleon, starring Joaquin Phoenix. Interest in Saint Helena is sure to be strong, but difficult to visit, since this is one of the most remote islands on earth, located 2,100 km west of the coast of Namibia. It boasts a population of less than 4,500 people who have been slow to embrace modern technology – cellular service was only introduced in 2015.

ASIA

Japan: The reopening of Japan to travellers at the end of 2022 saw a flurry of fresh places: glassy Tokyo hotels, creative hideouts in Kyoto and even a Totoro-filled theme park from cult-filmmaker Studio Ghibli. But for a place so associated with high-speed trains and fast-paced megacities, the most compelling way to see the country right now is on foot or by sea. The Nakasendo Way, an ancient route linking Tokyo to Kyoto, winds through mountains, little-changed post towns, bamboo forests and past waterfalls and hot springs. Walking its full length is a demanding hike, but it’s easy to pick up a shorter stretch or visit highlights along the way – come in April to catch the cherry blossoms.

Depart the southern end of the route and today’s foodie pilgrims should hotfoot it to Osaka, where street food stalls dish up takoyaki (octopus fritters) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). From there it’s the jumping off point to the Seto Inland Sea – best seen from floating ryokan guntû, which island hops to the temples of Miyajima and art island Naoshima (home to Yayoi Kusama’s Yellow Pumpkin, James Turrell installations and Tadao Ando-designed museums). Get off the beaten track and dive deeper into the real Japan.

China: With tourist visas and regular international flights returning for the first time since the pandemic, now is the chance to see the Land of the Dragon before everyone else. Walk through time in the Forbidden City, stroll the imposing Great Wall, stand guard with the Terracotta Army. Beyond the big sights and even bigger cities, however, the Chinese countryside is being rediscovered – in part thanks to the rural nostalgia of cottage core influencers leading to a boom in antique-filled village guesthouses and mountainside design hotels. Take a bamboo raft down the Yulong River or visit a Hani village to see life unchanged for thousands of years. Asia’s most beguiling and culturally rich giant is finally back.

Vietnam: Vietnam is one of Asia’s most exciting places to eat. So, it was no surprise when Michelin finally got the memo, releasing its first guide to foodie cities Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh in June 2023. The first four stars were dished out to fashionable fine dining spots, such as Ho Chi Minh’s Anan Saigon and its bone-marrow Wagyu beef pho or Gia in Hanoi with its in-house fermentation lab. But to sample the country’s real finger-licking food culture, take to the streets, tucking into everything from duck congee to pork skin salad.

Siem Reap: There’s much more to this lovely little town than Angkor Wat. A flourishing art and craft scene, burgeoning restaurant line-up spotlighting Khmer cooking and ever-growing gathering of design-led hotels (Angsana Siem Reap will soon become the latest) has made it a destination in its own right. One that in 2024 will become even more accessible via its new international airport (moving from the current site close to the famous temple complex). With tourists trickling back to Angkor Wat, explore lesser-known archaeological wonders such as the 12th-century temples at Banteay Chhmar, the still-being-uncovered site at Phnom Kulen or recently UNESCO-listed Koh Ker, home to Prasat Thom, Southeast Asia’s only seven-tiered pyramid.

LATIN AMERICA

Colombia: Colombia is one of the world’s rare ‘megadiverse’ countries: a staggering 10% of all the world’s flora and fauna can be found here. Look at its geography and you start to understand why; the natural contrasts are just astonishing: a dense Amazon jungle interior, coral white beaches along the Caribbean coast, isolated Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, coffee-carpeted highlands and wildly remote Guajira Peninsula, home to the Indigenous Wayuu people among salt flats and flamingo-lined lagoons. The once-troubled country is now investing heavily in sustainable travel, opening up some of these previously off-limits regions. But it’s not just about the like-nowhere-else nature – cosmopolitan cities are filled with salsa clubs and street art, shaking food and cocktail players and important social projects. The hottest spot in South America for intrepid travellers.

Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula: This big-thinking Central American nation is a pioneer of ecotourism – over a quarter of the country is now protected as national parks, marine reserves and conservation sanctuaries – and a favourite destination for those seeking high-drama, low-impact trips. With more direct flights connecting the capital San José, big brand hotels are landing at easy-to-reach Papagayo, gateway to the Nicoya Peninsula. A revamp at Four Seasons Peninsula Papagayo and nearby Waldorf Astoria Guanacaste both launch in 2024, with more in the works.

Meanwhile, at the remote tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, the salt-sprayed beach town of Santa Teresa is the go-to spot for surfers and yogis, and the barefoot nomads who follow in their wake. At the moment they stay in a clutch of independently owned guesthouses, where dawn kundalini sessions are mixed with beach clean-ups, surf lessons with helping with local community outreach. In March, equally progressive hotel group Habitas will land on these Pacific shores, with its plastic-free policies, farm-to-table restaurant and meditation classes. Go now, before everyone else gets there.

AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

 Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania: Scientists predict that the glaciers at the top of Africa’s highest peak could disappear within the next two decades. Time is sadly running out to see Mount Kilimanjaro’s famous icefields and once-massive Furtwängler Glacier while trekking up the snow-capped volcano to its 5,895-m. peak. Would-be-climbers can do it in style, escorted by  A&K expert guides who choose the best route up the mountain, allowing time to acclimatize to the altitude during the seven-day climb. The real difference though? Little luxuries, like a cozy cot that keeps you off the ground for a good night’s sleep – after a tiring scramble up the Barranco Wall. A breathtaking, go-now adventure.

Kenya: Where it all began for Abercrombie & Kent and where Geoffrey Kent brought about the inspiration for the film The Lion King when he hosted DreamWorks cofounder Jeffrey Katzenberg on safari in the Masai Mara spot now known as Pride Rock. With 2024 marking the 30th anniversary of The Lion King and the release of the new live action prequel, Mufasa, a renewed interest to the region is expected as a new generation is inspired to witness Kenya’s landscapes and wildlife for themselves.

Morocco: The travel world was shaken when an earthquake caused devastation in the High Atlas Mountains in September, its effects felt even in Marrakech’s Medina – but within days the country had pulled itself up by the bootstraps to welcome visitors again. The best way to support Morocco’s ongoing recovery is to visit, and there are plenty of fresh reasons to go in 2024. In Marrakech itself, the tremors didn’t stop a bubbling seam of exciting openings: architectural Maison Brummell Majorelle near the city’s famous botanical garden, riad Rosemary from artist Laurence Leenaert, equally art-filled retreat IZZA, blissed-out Farasha Farmhouse deep in an olive grove on the city’s fringes – as well as all-female-chef restaurant Sahbi Sahbi and hip nightspot Petanque Social Club.

The bohemian outpost of Tangier, too, is thrumming with fresh energy and new places to stay, from Jasper Conran (Villa Mabrouka) and El Fenn’s ex-GM William Smit (Villa Augustine) – don’t miss the locally-run art galleries and North Africa’s first arthouse cinema either. Resilient Morocco is still at its thrillingly creative best.

Saudi Arabia: It’s wild to think that until 2019 the only tourists to Saudi Arabia were religious pilgrims. Now, as part of the country’s Vision 2030 plan, this once-uncharted territory for travellers is marked with big-name hotels (from billowing tented camps to Red Sea resorts), ambitious cultural institutions (the first commissions in the ‘Valley of the Arts’ Wadi AlFann are to be unveiled in 2024) and futuristic developments (sustainable linear city The Line; sci-fi-esque ski resort Trojena Neom). But what is most awe-inspiring is still the most ancient: the carved tombs of Hegra deep in the AlUla desert, the towering sandstone columns of Wadi Al Disah, Jeddah’s 7th-century Al Balad neighborhood – while female guides leading the way show just how fast the country is reshaping itself to the outside world.

 AUSTRALASIA

South Australia: Kangaroo Island – Australia’s answer to the Galápagos – was wiped out by bushfires in 2019, destroying wildlife, burning habitats, and razing to the ground its pioneering luxury eco-hotel, Southern Ocean Lodge. In December, the much-loved lodge emerged from the ashes, the culmination of a miraculous nature recovery program on the island.

South Australia is as vast as it is varied: from ocean to outback; from up-close wildlife experiences and exciting wine regions (world-class Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale; emerging Adelaide Hills), to wild coastal peninsulas and a roster of brilliant art and food festivals. October’s Australian Voice referendum further highlighted the importance of connecting with the country’s Indigenous communities too.

Out in the outback of the Flinders Ranges learn about the area’s immense cultural significance to the Adnyamathanha people at Ikara – The Meeting Place, a public art space that shares their story, and explore ancient engravings at Arkaroo Rock. This is an incredible immersion in the best of Australia.

THE POLES

The North Polar: An off-the-grid alternative to all the Antarctic cruises nosing across the Drake Passage, A&K’s North Pole Expedition Cruise is its inaugural voyage to the top of the world. When it departs from Longyearbyen in Svalbard this July, eco-friendly icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot will venture far beyond the point that other Arctic cruises usually go, charting a course ever-northwards into seldom-seen sea ice to the geographic North Pole. Onboard, guests can watch as the ship cuts through the marginal ice zone, spotting blue, rorqual and beluga whales, polar bears, and high arctic gulls in the white vastness. Venture off board to hike over the ice, kayak through open leads or take an invigorating polar plunge. It’s the ultimate unexplored frontier.

Antarctica: Ernest Shackleton was an Irish-born British explorer who is best known for his expeditions to Antarctica in the early 20th century. Despite never achieving his ultimate goal of being the first to reach the South Pole, Shackleton led three major expeditions to the Antarctic region and made several groundbreaking journeys and discoveries. In 2024, it will be the 150th anniversary of Shackleton’s birth in February 1874. This milestone year honours his daring expeditions, leadership, and contributions to Antarctic exploration.

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Excitement flew high on the Atlantic breeze as we stood on the top deck of Polaris, counting seconds for the meteorologist to untether the massive weather balloon. As the helium-filled bubble soared 30 kilometers into space and out of view, everyone cheered, thrilled to witness the scientific mission, synchronized with weather stations around the globe, to simultaneously launch balloons to gather crucial atmospheric data for predicting weather.

By now, we knew our Polaris cruise bestowed value beyond adventurous escapades and delicious meals. As one of Viking’s two 378-passenger expedition ships, Polaris and her identical twin, Octantis (launched months earlier in 2022), are purpose-built with Polar Class 6 technology and stabilizers to navigate through harsh icy waters in remote Arctic and Antarctic conditions. Meantime, both operate as fully equipped scientific research vessels with a 256-member crew, including about 30 scientists who happily engage passengers to participate in research along the way.

Arriving recently at Toronto Harbour to see Polaris’ jaunty prow facing the city skyline across sparkling Lake Ontario, my anticipation rose for the 16-day ‘Canada and Atlantic Coastline’ itinerary that would traverse the St. Lawrence Seaway enroute to Fort Lauderdale.

Mingling with passengers in the small cruise terminal, I was surprised to learn that several couples who hailed from Calgary, Mississauga, or Ontario towns – all who spend winters in Florida – had been inspired to book this itinerary by savvy travel advisors who recommended it as “a leisurely cruise alternative to flying south.” Two couples from New Zealand said their advisor suggested this as part of a North America tour – starting with flights to Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto “to see Niagara Falls” – that would continue inland from Fort Lauderdale.

Minutes after embarking, we were ushered to a safety briefing. An expedition crew member demonstrated the ease of donning the emergency life jacket. With its attached life preserver and protective, head-warming hood, the zip-up jacket is the most impressive emergency apparel afloat.

Home away from home at sea

On to my home at sea: Polaris staterooms run from 21 sq. m. to spacious 110. My minimalist room #3011 proved comfortable, cozy, and bright for the entire voyage. The corner seating area converts to a “Nordic balcony” with the press of a button that raises and lowers the window. A narrow observation shelf is handy for balancing a camera or supplied binoculars. Amenities include a stocked mini-fridge and Nespresso maker. The comfortable bed has fluffy goose down pillows, though hypo-allergenic bedding is available on request. The compact bathroom has heated floors and towel rail, double sink, stall shower, and Freyja toiletries.

A full-length drying closet holds expedition life preservers (lighter that emergency jackets) used for kayaks and Zodiac tours. On Arctic and Antarctic itineraries it conveniently airs out polar gear including the Viking-supplied keepsake parka, waterproof pants and loaner boots. I used it to dry small items rinsed in the sink. Incidentally, on this southern coastal route, I loved my starboard-facing location for landscape views.

Windows on the world

Exploring Viking Polaris’ six decks, it was evident the ship is architecturally crafted for viewing nature in any destination, any elements, as outdoor areas include protective. Facing forward on Deck 3, The Bow is perfect for viewing approaching ports, while The Shelter provides cover. Indoors, lofty views are visible from the panoramic Explorer’s Lounge. Overlooking the wake at aft or back-of ship, Finse Terrace seats are positioned around a lava stone fire pit. Aft views are also seen on Deck 5, from the al fresco Aquavit Terrace, or two small pools, including one with a retractable glass roof.

Interior spaces have vast windows, inviting the outdoors in. On Deck 5, Viking’s Nordic styling induces a sense of sumptuous comfort in The Living Room and The Library. Leather sofas draped with reindeer hides and Scandinavian wood chairs are artfully clustered with contemporary accents for congenial mingling. Cushy chaises piled with pillows in tactile fabrics invite serene repose for writing a journal, or reading one of Viking’s zillion books. Games tables with built-in technology promise endless fun. For all its restful environment, I imagine passengers jumping at the sight of breaching whales, grabbing cameras, and dashing to the outdoor promenade.

Lower decks showcase Viking’s dedication to enriching passengers’ environmental awareness with mindful experiential activities, and why the line is dubbed “the thinking person’s cruise.” Expedition Central has charts, maps, a model weather balloon, and computers to research the local biosphere. The Studio has life-size models of local birds to help identify species. The Lab – Polaris’ scientific research facility – is where passengers get hands-on experience analyzing specimens collected on tours.

Up on The Bow for the “Champagne sail-away” from Toronto Harbour, passengers raved about the city I take for granted. Mingling with people from Washington, New York, and Copenhagen, I learned they were among 33 who embarked in Duluth, Minnesota, for a Great Lakes cruise. Turns out, they’re on the second segment of Viking’s Longitudinal World Cruise, continuing beyond Fort Lauderdale, through the Panama Canal, along South America to the Galapagos and Chilean Fiords, enroute to Ushuaia for an Antarctica expedition.

Expedition briefing

After the CN Tower drifted from view, we headed to the first of daily briefings in The Aula. The beautiful, light-filled amphitheatre was inspired by the University of Oslo’s venue for the Nobel Peace Prize. Captain Xavier Mongin introduced the international crew including submarine pilots, kayak and Zodiac drivers, and mountain guides. They invited passengers to meet in The Hangar the next day.

Chief Scientist Dr. Brandi Revels gave our voyage environmental context when she said: “We are on the same journey as all the water in the Great Lakes that flows to the ocean. This cruise excites our scientists studying changes in the coastal biosphere. They are experts in marine biology, nuclear chemistry, meteorology, ornithology, whales, or Great Lakes ecology.”

Their ambitions include launching underwater video systems along the way to study fish migration and monitor the flow of microplastics; and gathering phytoplankton specimens to track changes in ecosystems. Interestingly, Viking partners with global research institutes, including NASA Global Cloud Watch, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) which receives atmospheric data from weather balloons. Dr. Revels said learning about nature and cultivating nature hobbies nurtures the mind.

Briefing over, passengers headed to dinner, most to buffets at World Café (for international dishes and seafood) or Mansen’s (for Scandinavian specialties). Polaris’ two restaurants require reservations. Manfredi’s serves Italian specialties, and The Restaurant, international cuisine. Tucked at a scenic window table in Manfredi’s, I relished every taste of my salad sprinkled with peanuts and pecorini cheese; fragrant porcini mushroom soup; tasty rack of lamb with truffle ragu polenta; and green tea sorbet. Dining solo, I appreciated the staff’s engaging attention, particularly the chef who greeted people at every table by name.

Thousand Islands cruising

Early next morning, beaming sunshine sparked a lively atmosphere as Polaris navigated eastward through the Thousand Islands. Passengers lining The Bow poised cameras and binoculars, ready to capture wildlife, eagles’ nests perched on trees, and flocks of sea birds nestling on shores of tiny islets. Others walked the promenade, exercised in the gym, indulged in the spa, or simply relaxed.

Along the way, a scientist detailed the importance of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River as an historic artery for exploration and trade long before Canada or the US achieved nationhood. Completed in 1959, construction of the 306-km. stretch of St. Lawrence Seaway between Montreal and Canada was considered one of the world’s most challenging engineering feats. Seven locks were built to raise vessels 75 m. from sea level at Montreal as they transit to Lake Ontario’s elevation. At its eastern point, The Seaway officially starts at Lake Erie where it links to Lake Ontario via the Welland Canal locks built in 1932. On our eastward path, the locks would lower Polaris’ elevation, starting at the US-owned Eisenhower and Snell locks enroute to five Canadian locks.

Stopping for lunch in the World Café, I found abundant choices including filet of beef, lamb chops, lobster, sea bass, pastas, salads, and tempting desserts. Figuring on tempering my appetite, I vowed to take steps instead of elevators.

Yellow submarines

 That afternoon, I visited the enclosed marina called The Hangar, eager to see the two yellow submarines, which I’d been hesitant to pre-book for excursions. My confidence revved up as 2nd Officer Submarine, Nikola Marinovic explained the submarine’s 270-degree spherical bubble virtually “disappears” as it descends, giving the six passengers seated on swivel chairs the sensation of total immersion. Standing beside the duo – named Ringo and George – Marinovic showed the submersion level when passengers board it from a Zodiac. Inspired, I ran to the excursion desk, only to make the wait list. Space was available on the SOBs, the two military-grade Special Operations Boats that seat 12 for scenic tours.

Next morning, while Captain Mongin navigated toward Trois-Rivieres, expedition photographer Molly Wallis gave tips on iPhone photography. She promised to take photos along the way, and post images on the ship’s app that passengers could download.

Viking includes guided tours in every port where possible. When Polaris berthed alongside Terrace Turcotte, passengers had various options. Active types joined kayak safaris, SOB jaunts or a rural hike. Others toured Trois Rivieres’ historic Old Town. Established in 1634 as a settlement of New France, it was strategically positioned for fur traders and explorers. Sites included Notre-Dame-du-Cap Sanctuary, the cobbled street of Ursuline Nuns, the infamous Old Prison now linked to the modern POP Gallery, and lively Rue de Forges, lined with shops and cafés.

Back on Polaris, we snacked on bowls of French-Canadian pea soup at Mamsen’s. At the daily briefing, the marine ecologist described how passengers helped deploy equipment to measure the transition of Great Lakes waters to Trois Rivieres’ marine environment. Later that evening, a lecture on Quebec City prepared us for the next day.

In Quebec City, Viking offered premium (extra cost) excursions to Montmorency Falls & Ile d’Orleans, and Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area. The included walking tour of Old Quebec City provided an excellent overview of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, plus the Saint-Louis Forts and Chateaux excavations led by engaging Parks Canada guide, Gabrielle Baltan.

Along the way, I met two, different solo passengers who became lovely ship-board friends. Both heading to Antarctica, one was on her third world cruise, the other on her eighth.

Atlantic Canada

Cruising into the Gulf of St. Lawrence next morning, we spotted the first of the string of Canada’s iconic lighthouses that lit the way for early sailors and fishermen. Lectures focused on the St. Lawrence River, third largest in North America. Historically, on the First Nations people who originally inhabited its shores, explorer Samuel de Champlain, and the evolution New France and Quebec City. Science buffs were enthralled by details and images of the river’s diverse ecosystems, its species of plants, fish, and birds.

I dedicated my afternoon to wellness in the spa, vacillating between the hot steam room, frosty snow room, and swimming against waves in the long therapeutic pool. Loving the sensation, this became part of my sea day routine.

Brilliant skies the next day enhanced thrilling jaunts around Iles-de-la-Madeleine. Actives exploring by kayaks, Zodiacs or SOBs came close to playful seals and sea birds nestled along rugged red cliffs. Others tendered to Cap-aux-Meules for a culinary hike of Belle-Anse to taste local seafood and cheese. Or enjoyed oyster tasting on a scenic tour with stops at the L’Etang-du-Nord lighthouse, famed fishermen statue, and early Acadian settlements, including precious La Verniere Church, North America’s second-oldest wood church, circa 1872-1891.

Excitement was palpable for submarine dives when Polaris anchored near Cape Breton, NS, near Canada’s oldest lighthouse guarding Fortress Louisbourg. Hopes fizzled when the sub team decided the combo of northerly winds with 1.5-metre southerly swells made boarding too risky. Instead, sub participants boarded watercraft, and returned with amazing shots of hawks and cormorants.

Submarine excitement rose again when Polaris anchored near Lunenburg, NS. When the sub team started their trial descent, they found the water too murky for visibility. Meantime, watercraft were ready, as were Lunenburg’s delightful options. The historic Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hailed as North America’s best surviving example of British colonial settlement. Eager to revisit Peggy’s Cove after many years, I joined the premium (extra cost) tour with lobster lunch. The lobster could have tasted better, but seeing the lighthouse perched on the stony cape was priceless, and I was pleased to see the new viewing platform for people with mobility issues.

Wildlife galore

Wildlife viewing was spectacular the next day, as we passed Halifax and entered the Atlantic Ocean. Pods of dolphins followed us for miles. Minke whales arched out of the ocean, and dove with flashing tails. Among flocks of seabirds, a pair of wide-winged Peregrine falcons followed Polaris. When the wide-winged male caught a small bird of prey, he perched on the ship’s rail, and squawked at nearby crew to stay away.

New York, New York

Everyone rose before dawn the next morning for the sensational approach to New York Harbour. Passengers lined The Bow in darkness – warmed by hot Baileys Cream coffees – as we passed the gleaming Statue of Liberty, entered the Hudson River, and cruised along the dazzling skyline to our Pier 88 berth in the heart of the city.

Viking’s included excursions included the 911 Memorial and Museum, the Museum of Natural History, plus an all-day complimentary shuttle. The premium “Evening City Lights” tour included a visit to the top of the Empire State Building.

Virginia and South Carolina

Leisurely sea days separated the next two ports of call. Norfolk, Virginia and Charleston, SC,  each gave wonderful opportunities for watercraft adventures, plus varieties of guided tours to historic and cultural sites, including pre-Civil War plantations.  As the world’s largest naval base and headquarters of the US Navy Atlantic fleet, Norfolk awed history buffs as we cruised past reams of massive battleships poised to deploy. Charleston charmed passengers with its elegant parks, wealth of meticulously preserved colonial architecture, and an intimate visit to a lavishly decorated antebellum mansion.

Bon voyage

By the last sea day enroute to Fort Lauderdale, Polaris’ atmosphere felt like a convivial community. As a solo cruiser, I’d met engaging couples along the way. On their first cruise, Americans Michel and Wayne Stuart – she an efficiency engineer professor, he an orthopaedic doctor who had set up medical school facilities in Peru, Tanzania, and India – told me they loved travelling to “dig deep into the culture of a place.” They “loved participating in Polaris’ science research” and “experiencing culture in places we can’t visit on our own.”

Charmian Kinner and Patrick O’Reilly – who’d met while travelling in Europe – were on their third world cruise together, this time to step on their fifth continent, Antarctica. Both active couples described “spectacular” submarine dives in the Great Lakes and planned future dives in Caribbean waters. As for the Polaris vessel itself, each couple described it as “perfect for us.” What they loved best? Polaris’ small size, casual ambience, abundant meals, and friendly crew. I agreed.

Details:

Viking’s “all inclusive” expedition cruises include dining in all buffets and restaurant; wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner only; use of all thermal spa facilities and fitness equipment; watercraft excursions by Zodiac, kayak and SOB (Special Operations Boat); and guided excursions in most ports. Submarine dives cost US$499 p.p..

Viking’s 16-day ‘Canada and Atlantic Coastline’ itinerary is a segment of the Longitudinal World Cruise that starts with a Great Lakes cruise and culminates in Ushuaia for an Antarctic expedition.

In 2024 and 2025, the 61-day Longitudinal World Cruise will depart from Milwaukee in the Great Lakes.

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

There were a billion reasons that 2023 was a great year for travel and tourism (ed note: not all listed here!). Other round-up highlights over the holidays included the return of Mexicana airline (in unique fashion), ongoing Boxing Week sales from tour companies, and the return of Disney product to the Air Canada Vacations portfolio.

NEWS

With almost a billion tourists having already travelled internationally in the first three-quarters of the year, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) says international tourism has almost completely recovered from the unprecedented crisis of COVID-19. According to data an estimated 975 million tourists travelled internationally between January and September 2023, an increase of 38% on the same months of 2022.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) has entered into agreements with several airlines for a new rebate program aimed at driving better performance and passenger experience at Canada’s busiest airport. Airlines representing approximately 90% of seats at Toronto Pearson are eligible to earn rebates by achieving certain passenger volume thresholds and meeting targets related to operational performance, including on-time departures and timely baggage delivery. The arrangement starts Jan. 1.

The US Department of Transportation is investigating possible deceptive practices in airline loyalty programs after federal lawmakers raised concerns about how companies are calculating points and rewards. DOT says it is planning “to carefully review complaints regarding loyalty programs and exercise our authority to investigate airlines for unfair and deceptive practices that hurt travellers as warranted.”

AIR

Mexico launched its army-run airline Dec. 26, when the first Mexicana airline flight took off from Mexico City bound for the Caribbean resort of Tulum. The airline’s military-run holding company now also operates about a dozen airports, hotels, trains, the country’s customs service and tourist parks.

On Dec. 21, Air Transat kicked off the 2023-2024 sun season from Moncton with its first direct flight from Moncton to Cancun. Service is weekly every Thursday, and with weekly flights to Punta Cana every Friday. In February, a weekly flight to Varadero will start, as well as flights to Orlando, now offered twice weekly. Air Transat departures to sun destinations from YQM will be offered until May 2024 this season.

An expanded international air agreement between Canada and Panama will enable Copa Airlines to increase frequencies between the countries in 2024, culminating in daily service between both Toronto and Montreal starting May 20 and 21 respectively. Increased service will to Panama City will begin in March with connections to more than 60 Central America, South America, and Caribbean destinations beyond the carrier’s hub.

Fares for new Maltese national carrier KM Malta Airlines are now on sale for flights commencing on March 31, 2024. Seventeen routes include 17 routes include Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Catania, Dusseldorf, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Lyon, Madrid, Munich,

DEALS

Sunwing is continuing Boxing Day week deals into the New Year with savings on vacations to Mexico, the Caribbean (including Cuba), Central America and the United States available when booked by Jan. 7, 2024. Customers can get up to $1,500 off per couple on vacation packages at over 200 hotels and resorts.

TravelBrands New Year offers continue across its multiple brands as follows: Sunquest ­– 10X Loyalty Rewards Points on bookings made between by January 2, 2024. Valid on hotel-only, add-ons, as well as Sunquest and TravelGenie packages; Cars – 3X Loyalty Rewards Points, a $25 gas card for every three cars booked, and three chances to win your rental back (through Jan. 3); Exotik Journeys –$200 off per couple, valid through Jan. 8; Encore Cruises – For any sailing on select cruise lines departing on or before July 31, each child will receive a US$50 Fun credit and a CDN$100 air credit (for bookings by Jan. 8). Info on www.travelbrandsaccess.com.

Travellers can save up to CDN$750 when booking the Feb. 4, 2024, departure on Collette’s 22-day “Australia & New Zealand Uncovered” Explorations tour.

HOTELS

The Omni Homestead Resort in in Hot Springs, (southwestern) Virginia (photo), has celebrated its official Grand Reopening after completing a US$150-million property-wide renovation project. Situated in the Allegheny Mountains, the 930-hectacre property is America’s first resort, with a history spanning 250 years and has hosted many US president and other dignitaries over the years. The resort’s iconic Warm Springs Pools underwent a meticulous 14-month, $4.6 million rehabilitation, preserving historic structures dating back to 1761.  

Banff’s newest hotel, Moxy Banff, is slated to open in January. Marketed as “a playful hotel brand for the young at heart,” Moxy is part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 brands. Originating in Europe in 2014 with the launch of Moxy Milan, Moxy now has over 125 locations across the globe.

CRUISE

MSC Cruises continued to advance its commitment to environmental sustainability by successfully connecting MSC World Europa to shore power in the port of Valetta, Malta – the first operational shore power facility in the Mediterranean. The line says it is committed to the use of shore power wherever it is available as part of its goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emission operations by 2050

Margaritaville at Sea is introducing three-night weekend sails from Palm Beach, Fla. to the Bahamas, including new “Saturdays at Sea” experiences, for August through December. Departing Friday and returning Monday, the three-night itinerary includes a full Saturday at sea, which will feature new dining, entertainment, and other experiences, such as a “Bottoms Up Party Brunch” with live music, special menus, and drinks. Other Saturday programming will include “Tropic Like It’s Hot” island night with suggested themed attire for passengers; new, complimentary dinner menu at the Fins main dining room; a “Sail Yeah” deck party; pickleball competitions; spa specials; casino promotions; and more.

TOURS

Air Canada Vacations is again offering Disney vacation packages to its portfolio with a choice of 29 resorts in Florida, California, and Hawaii, and packages that include flight, hotel, and theme park tickets.

Due to the conflict in the Middle East, Collette has announced that all travellers who were booked on departures to Israel through the June 30 will be refunded in full. The price paid for the tour, flights, and insurance will be refunded to any traveller who was booked on tour travelling during that timeframe, at the time of cancelation. Any travel advisor who booked travellers during this period will keep all advanced commissions paid from those bookings.

RESORTS

 Set to open in April, the adults-only Royalton CHIC Antigua is located on the northwest coast of Antigua on Dickinson Bay Beach, 20 minutes from the airport. The brand-new resort will feature 235 rooms and suites, seven restaurants, five bars and dining entertainment, sports and fitness facilities and The Royal Spa. Royalton Chic Antigua offers guests 15% off their stay when booking (available now) before the opening.

In 2024, RIU Hotels & Resorts will add two new hotels to its portfolio with the opening of Riu Palace Aquarelle, its seventh hotel in Jamaica and first in the Trelawny area of Jamaica. The 24-hour, all inclusive resort will open to travellers with 753 rooms and a wide gastronomic offering with a main buffet and five specialty restaurants – “Krystal” for fusion cuisine, “Napoli” serving Italian food; Kyoto, a Japanese restaurant; a steakhouse; and a Jerk station. Chicago will also be added to the RIU Plaza roster of urban hotels.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto will celebrate its official Grand Opening with Gwen Stefani performing on Friday, May 3 and Blake Shelton performing on Saturday, May 4. Both performances will take place in a new, 5,000-person theatre.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

During January, Riviera River Cruises will offer wave season discounts of up to $700 p.p. on 2024 and 2025 European river cruise departures, as well as a gift card incentive for travel advisors. A $400 p.p. discount will be available on eight-day cruises, including exclusive departures for solo travellers, and a $700 p.p. discount will be available on 11- to 15-day cruises. And for every cabin booked, travel advisors will receive a $100 gift card.

Travel Advisors who book groups on American Queen Voyages have the potential to earn 10% enhanced commission on premium shore excursions, pre- or post-stay city stays and travel insurance.

EVENTS

The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) hosts free educational webinars for registrants to address common compliance questions. New webinar dates in 2024 have been added for sessions covering advertising, disclosure and invoicing, trust accounting, and preparing the verification statement. For information, click HERE.

US Travel has revealed its cities and dates for its signature IPW travel trade conference through to the end of the decade. Following previously announced Los Angeles (May 3-7, 2024) and Chicago (June 14-18, 2025), the next shows will be held in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – May 18-22, 2026; New Orleans – May 3-7, 2027; Detroit – June 10-14, 2028; Denver – May 19-23, 2029; and Anaheim, Ca. June 1-5, 2020.

DESTINATIONS

Canada’s largest food and drink celebration is returning with more restaurants than ever. Dine Out Vancouver Festival kicks off Jan. 17 for 19 days of feasting fun, showing over the city’s culinary scene through Feb. 4.

The twin-island destination of Antigua and Barbuda has revealed plans for Antigua and Barbuda Wellness Month with visitors and residents invited to immerse themselves in the destination’s enriching wellness experiences as they start anew in January. Hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Antigua and Barbuda Wellness Month offers those seeking to enhance their quality of life a selection of carefully curated activities in resorts and in local communities, ranging from wellness retreats, spa experiences, hiking trail exploration, off-shore island excursions with yoga on secluded beaches, culturally immersive experiences and healthy eating options.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1986, the first non-stop flight around the world without refuelling was completed as the airplane “Voyager” landed safely in the Mojave Desert after nine days, three minutes and 44 seconds in the air. The pilot was US Air Force Col. Dick Ruton and the co-pilot was Jeana Yeager.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News