10. Azamara Club Cruises (Normandy & Amsterdam)

10. Azamara Club Cruises – 10 Night Normandy & Amsterdam on the Azamara Journey

This destination focused itinerary includes visits to Lisbon, Portugal; Porto (Leixoes), Portugal; St.Peter Port, Channel Isl; Cherbourg, France; Honfleur, France; Oostende, Belgium; Amsterdam, Netherlands and London (Greenwich), UK.

In each destination, local excursions will enable you to feel like local. Every Azamara voyage combines sophisticated sailing with authentic cultural experiences that will deepen your appreciation of our amazing world! Azamara visits smaller, unique ports of call that larger vessels are unable to visit. The focus on destination immersion means longer stays in these ports and more overnights to give you the opportunity to fully experience the culture, cuisine, scenery and local people.

Throughout your travels, you will enjoy Azamara’s exceptional, friendly service, along with many complimentary extras including gratuities, the majority of your beverages and an “azamazing” evening event. Azamara currently has two ships with itineraries around the world – Asia & The Pacific; Australia & New Zealand; Central America & California; Europe – Black Sea, Mediterranean, Northern & Western; Panama Canal; South America; Transoceanic and West Indies. A third ship will join the fleet in 2018.

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09. Tauck – The Best of Ireland Tour

the ebst of ireland

9. Tauck – The Best of Ireland Tour

This Ireland tour is just one of many immersive, small-group adventures that is perfect for the culturally curious traveler. Experience a warm welcome from the Emerald Isle on an unforgettable 14-day journey. Splendid scenery, fascinating history, a vibrant culture and warm, hospitable people all contribute to the great charm of Ireland, north and south. Find out what it’s like to stay in country estates, lakeside resorts and a historic city-center hotel.

Feast your eyes along the Yellow Roads from the Ring of Kerry to the Cliffs of Moher to the Giant’s Causeway. Visit castles, abbeys, walled cities & a graveyard with stories to tell and history to reveal. Learn the story of three centuries of Irish emigrants building a new life in North America at the Ulster American Folk Park. Get a little taste of the artistic side of Ireland on visits to the Belleek Pottery factory and a literal taste at The Jameson Experience as you discover the history of Irish Whiskey. Enjoy the sophistication of Dublin (with a two night stay to explore parks, streets and pubs) and the peaceful ambiance of small villages. Have lunch with a family who run a working dairy farm.

Experience the award-winning, magnificent Titanic Belfast interactive museum and savor a special 9-course tasting dinner inspired by the great ship’s menu in the city where it was built. This tour includes 32 meals (13 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 11 dinners), service charges, gratuities to local guides, admission fees, taxes & porterage. 
You can travel in a small group with Tauck just about anywhere and enjoy their well-connected local guides, experts, and Tauck Directors, who will share their enthusiasm for the destinations and their insider’s perspective. Small group destinations include: Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Tauck also has river cruise offerings, small ship cruising (cultural exploration, from Iceland to the Mediterranean to the Galápagos, aboard intimate yachts and purpose-built expeditionary vessels) and other distinct product offerings on all seven continents including Cuba.

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08. Oceania Cruises – Ancient Vignettes

Ancient Vignettes: barcelona-athens-riviera

8. Oceania Cruises – Ancient Vignettes (10 days, Barcelona to Athens on the elegant ship the Riviera)

This amazing Mediterranean adventure takes you to Barcelona, Spain; Provence (Marseille), France; Florence/Pisa/Tuscany (Livorno), Italy; Rome, Italy; Sorento/Capri, Italy; Valletta, Malta; Santorini, Greece; Rhodes, Greece and Athens (Piraeus), Greece!

As you take in the breathtaking landscapes and historic architecture, you will easily understand why these locales have been continuously inhabited for centuries. Marvel at the panoramic views as you take the Gineste Road from Marseille to Cassis, a beautiful, romantic town at the base of a castle. Meander through the grounds at Villa San Michele, a gorgeous home-turned-museum with spectacular gardens located high above Capri. In Valletta, visit the Mosta Dome, a decorative 19th-century church that can be seen from almost anywhere on the island. After a stop at a winery in the whitewashed town of Santorini, continue on to the village of Oia, nestled into the slope of a caldera. You can experience even more with pre and post cruise land/tour options.

Oceania Cruise’s small and unique luxury fleet (Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Sirena, Marina and Riviera) can call on the world’s most desirable ports, from historic cities and modern meccas to charming seaside villages. On a voyage with Oceania Cruises, each day offers the exciting opportunity to experience the history, culture, art and cuisine of a new destination. Whatever corner of the globe beckons, Oceania Cruises will take you there in comfort and style. Oceania also offers spectacular itineraries to: Alaska; Africa; Asia; Australia & New Zealand; Baltic & Scandanavia; Canada & New England; Caribbean, Panama Canal & Mexico; Mediterranean; South America & Amazon; South Pacific & Tahiti.

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07. Aruba – White Beaches & Turqoise Waters

Aruba - White Beaches and Calm Turquoise Waters

7. Aruba – Pristine White-Sand Beaches and Calm Turquoise Waters – and, a fantastic destination for Foodie’s!

Whether you want all-inclusive or European plan, there is a resort and beach for you! Aruba is home to beautiful white-sand beaches, 82-degree days and some of the nicest people in the world – with more than 90 nationalities represented, the country has a diverse population with a rich history and warm culture of hospitality!

Located 15 miles north of Venezuela in the warm waters of the southern Caribbean, Aruba is outside the hurricane belt. With a dry climate and constant cooling trade winds, Aruba has more sunny days than any other Caribbean island. Aruba is an independent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands and has a population of approximately 100,000 inhabitants. Aruba is very GREEN and at the forefront of the energy revolution – ten large windmills line the eastern coast and within 10 years, 100% of the island’s energy is planned to come from renewable sources.

Additionally, because of the world’s second largest desalination plant, Aruba’s water meets the highest quality standards of the World Health Organization. Aruba’s low season falls between mid-April and mid-December, when crowds and rates tend to be lower. Aruba is known for beach tennis; also windsurfing and kitesurfing – thanks to the trade winds. On the south and west coasts of Aruba, you’ll find Oranjestad, the capital city, and miles of beaches that have been named some of the best in the world. Here, you’ll find most of the hotels and all-inclusive resorts in Aruba, and Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA).

In the interior of the island, you will find Arikok National Park, a desert-like preserve with a variety of wildlife, cacti and dramatic rock formations. Here also are some of the island’s most striking views, as the ocean crashes against the rugged shoreline below. Don’t miss the unofficial mascots – the fofoti trees (the consistent tradewinds have permanently sculpted them into graceful, southwesterly bending forms).

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06. Windstar – Costa Rica & Panama Canal

Windstar – Costa Rica and Panama Canal

6. Windstar – Costa Rica & Panama Canal

Tropical Islands, exotic jungles and the Panama Canal – experience it all! Costa Rica is one of the most ecologically diverse places on earth, from crashing waterfalls to blissful beaches, rainforests, lakes, cloud forests, volcanoes, an impressive variety of wildlife and more.

Come find the natural and man-made wonders combined on an exotic Costa Rica and Panama Canal cruise full of bucket list places and activities. Learn about the area from a local Naturalist on board, then take a Zodiac ashore and find rare experiences for yourself. Hike through Manuel Antonio National Park in search of its lovely beaches and abundant animal life. Soar high above the Quepos jungle floor as you zipline searching for such wildlife residents as monkeys, sloths, and toucans, then explore Golfo Dulce with some of the most intense rainforest landscapes in the world. Take a daylight transit through the massive Panama Canal, one of the world’s most stunning feats of engineering, on a yacht that lets you see it all.

On all of Windstar’s luxury small ships, everything is designed for your comfort – from the fine Egyptian linens, marble bathrooms, soft lighting, beautiful artwork, cozy robes, a luxurious spa and endless activities. An attentive, personal, detail-oriented crew ensures that you will feel like you are in your own private paradise! Windstar doesn’t just take you to fascinating destinations, they take you into them, giving you unique access to knowledge and activities that enhance your understanding of the places you visit.

Complimentary Destination Discovery Events treat you to iconic experiences that capture the essence of your locale. Guest Lecturers intrigue you with regional topics, adding new dimensions to your voyage and small group excursions take you to meet locals who share their homes, cuisines, and cultures. Dining is also exquisite with special appearances by guest chefs, cooking demonstrations, wine pairings and meals prepared with locally-sourced ingredients by some of the most recognized culinary talent in the world.

Other incredible destinations include: Italy, the Mediterranean, Greece, Alaska, Northern Europe and the Caribbean.

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05. G Adventure-Inca Discovery Plus, Peru

G-Adventure Peru

5. G Adventure-Inca Discovery Plus, Peru (9 days, Lima to Lima)

This trip is perfect for travelers eager to combine a cultural excursion with one of the world’s most memorable hikes. Sample seafood in Lima, marvel at the Sacred Valley, conquer the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

This trip offers a fascinating combination of the region’s archaeological and cultural treasures. Retrace the steps of the Inca on a four-day trek along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. While physically demanding, this hike will reward those willing to break a sweat with stunning views of ruins and cloud forests. G Adventures runs their own treks, which ensures fair treatment of porters and quality equipment. High-quality tents and camping gear are set up and maintained by G Adventure’s support staff, freeing you up to get the most out of your experience. On-trip meals are prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

G Adventures has an established set of protocols to effectively secure the permits required to hike the Inca Trail. This tour includes time in Lima and Cusco, a visit to a women’s weaving project in Sacred Valley, visits to indigenous villages, 5 nights in hotels, 3 nights camping, guided hike with cooks and porters, 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners.

G Adventures offers something for everyone – with tours all over the world and travel styles such as Local Living Tours, Active Tours, Marine Tours, Private Groups, Family Tours, Rail Tours and National Geographic Journeys. Small group tours with G Adventures offer security, access, camaraderie and a true affinity with your destination. Also enjoy: no single supplements, 100% guaranteed departures, diverse transport, character-rich accommodations, regional cuisine, skilled guides (CEOs-Chief Experience Officers) and lifetime deposits.

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04. m/s Paul Gauguin – Cook Islands & Society Islands

m/s Paul Gaugain cruise

4. Paul Gauguin – Cook Islands & Society Islands on the m/s Paul Gauguin

Immerse yourself in luxury and spectacular beauty above and below the waves! The Gauguin’s small size allows her to maneuver from deep seas to shallow lagoons as nimbly as a yacht.

This 11-night odyssey showcases the region’s incredible diversity of scenery, from Aitutaki’s low-lying islands to the jagged peaks and deep valleys of fertile Rarotonga, which was simply called “Paradise” by the first European explorers. The islands of Polynesia are a gorgeous collection of volcanic atolls strewn across the grand Pacific Ocean; the island of Tahiti is the largest of all 118. Explore the dynamic dining, nightlife and shopping in the capital city of Papeete before embarking on a fantastic adventure.

Continue to the Society Islands to delight in the South Pacific’s finest offerings – Bora Bora, Taha’a, Huahine and Moorea. While in the Cook Islands, call upon Aitutaki, a tiny island that is home to one of the world’s most spectacular lagoons. Spend a  relaxing day on Motu  Mahana, Paul Gauguin’s very own private islet, complete with white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, a barbecue lunch, drinks served in coconuts and a floating lagoon bar. The waters around Moorea are home to an amazing array of sea creatures. In Bora Bora, experience stunning views of Mount Otemanu.

Paul Gauguin cruises offer a variety of luxurious amenities and unique activities. Throughout your journey enjoy spectacular dining, a luxury spa, Scuba (an optional Scuba certification program is available), Snorkeling, Watersports (such as kayaking, paddleboarding, volleyball) and a featured guest host. Optional packages are available for honeymoons, vow renewals, anniversaries and other special occasions.

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03. Avalon – Magnificent Europe

Avalon Magnificent Europe; Amsterdam to Budapest

3. Avalon – Magnificent Europe

This adventure takes you from Budapest to Amsterdam, with many exciting stops along the way – immerse yourself in the culture of Central Europe. Visit three of Europe’s vibrant capital cities: Budapest, Hungary; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Vienna, Austria.

A Local Guide is available to show you the must-see sites in each city and there is ample time to explore on your own. Admire the view from Fishermen’s Bastion in Budapest, stroll through Bratislava’s Old Town with its winding streets and bronze sculptures, and stop in a classic Viennese café for a decadent treat. Sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley and the dramatic Rhine Gorge. Visit Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey and Würzburg’s baroque Bishop’s Residenz. Enjoy a tasting of Wachau wines and Germany’s beers and bratwurst.

Explore quaint towns like Dürnstein with its blue and white baroque Stiftskirche; Passau, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral; and Bamberg, with its town hall straddling the River Regnitz. Enjoy historic Nuremberg, Würzburg, and Regensburg—one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. In the charming Rhine Valley town of Rüdesheim, enjoy a stroll through its famous cobblestone Drosselgasse lined with shops, restaurants, and lively taverns. Straddling both sides of the Rhine River is Cologne, Germany—a 2,000 year-old city known for its gothic architecture – see the famous twin-spired cathedral. This European river cruise would not be complete without a visit to Holland’s lively capital of Amsterdam. Experience the treasures of this 700-year-old city – do not miss the Anne Frank House.

Avalon offers spectacular itineraries all over Europe – many with specialty themes such as Wine; Beer; Garden & Nature; Golf; Christmas market and Opera/music.

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02. Globus-Europe to Italy and France

globus europe: italy and france

2. Globus-Europe to Italy and France

Italy and France, two of the most beautiful countries in the world – experience them on this Best of Italy & France escorted tour. Spend two nights each in Rome, Venice, the French Riviera, and Paris, as well as a night in Florence and Genoa.

Enjoy the must-see attractions in each city on your guided sightseeing tours, including the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Rome; St. Mark’s Square and Basilica in Venice; the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, home to Michelangelo’s celebrated David; and a Seine cruise in Paris. Stop in Ferrara and walk through the medieval Este Castle to the marble cathedral, built in the 1100s. In Pisa, admire the famous Leaning Tower and in St. Paul de Vence see a picturesque hilltop town where you can explore the art galleries and quaint streets. Special dinners in Rome and Paris ensure that you experience local specialties and a stop in Èze is highlighted by a visit to a local perfume factory to learn about perfume making. Another highlight is an excursion to Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also experience an exciting high-speed train ride on the famous TGV train (first class) from Nice to Paris.

The Globus Family of Brands delivers amazing travel experiences all over Europe, including independent travel with Monograms.

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01. AMA Waterways 2018 Wine Cruise

wine cruise to europe

1. AMA Waterways 2018 Wine Cruise

AMA Waterways European river cruises offer a luxury, floating hotel that takes you into the heart of multiple cities and towns and excursions that immerse you in the culture.

Now, you can add a unique epicurean dimension and experience an exceptional journey through Europe’s most illustrious winegrowing regions. Choose from spectacular itineraries such as:

  • Taste of Bordeaux (roundtrip Bordeaux) with Paris and the Loire Valley
  • Colors of Provence (Arles to Lyon or reverse) with extra time in Paris & Barcelona
  • Romantic Danube (Vilshofen to Budapest) with Prague
  • Europe’s Rivers & Castles (Nuremberg to Luxembourg) with Prague or Paris
  • Melodies of the Danube (Budapest to Vilshofen) with Munich
  • Enchanting Rhine (Basel to Amsterdam) with Zurich & Lucerne
  • Rhine & Moselle Splendors (Luxembourg to Basel) with Paris or Zurich


Book early and save!

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