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Upgrade Your Experience with WestJet Vacations

Time is money and vacations are precious; did you know you have options?

Enjoy more with Premium

Upgrade your cabin to Premium with 2x2 seating for extra leg and elbow room, exclusive food and beverage selections and more, available on all flights.

Oh. My. Pod.

Spacious private pods, refined inflight dining, priority airport services and more in our Business cabin. Dreamliner service to Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Honolulu & Maui.

Private and Direct Transfers

Help you get to the fun faster with a convenient add-on of a private or direct transfer to your resort.

In-Destination Lounges

Not ready to leave the comforts of your resort, wait for your trip home with the conveniences you appreciate; complimentary Wi-Fi, bar, meal and snack service, and more.

Arriving soon: your next vacation to Mexico!

Every Mexico destination has something to offer, from those travelling on a romantic getaway, as a family, or on a special occasion with your best friends. Here are a few reasons to choose Mexico for your next getaway:

Breathtaking beaches: miles of pristine coastline hugged by stretches of sand. The ultimate view to rest and relax.
Irresistible food: some of the most delicious, vibrant and flavourful dishes.
Endless adventures: snorkel the waters at some of the best beaches.
The ultimate place to relax, the only thing days will be filled with is fun, laughter, and everlasting memories.
Don't miss ocean sunsets in the Caribbean

Jamaica

Whatever your definition of relaxation, you’re sure to find it here in Jamaica. Beautiful beaches, blue waters, smooth reggae vibes, laid-back Rasta culture and fantastic cuisine make up this incredible island.

Punta Cana

What could be better than 60 km of white sand beaches and crystal blue waters? This is Punta Cana, where the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea meet. You’ll find nine different beach areas here with more than 80 beachfront hotels and resorts

Don't miss the Pura Vida -Costa Rica

If you love the beach but you're craving some adventure, sink your sandy toes into Costa Rica. Surf the best waves in Latin America, snorkel under the sea or rappel down falls or ATV tours.

An entire country waiting to be explored, Costa Rica's territory is an ecological wonder.

Contact your travel advisor for details and to book your next great vacation with WestJet Vacations!

A 3-Hour Flight Home Turned Into 3 Days…Why You REALLY Need A Travel Advisor

Full disclosure – I have been touting the benefits of working with travel advisors for the past 20 years – their advice, hands-on support, expertise and travel perks. You might think I’m a bit jaded, but my recent travel experience only solidifies the point.

On my return from a cruise conference in Fort Lauderdale I awoke Saturday morning to find Delta had cancelled my return flight to NY and rebooked me Sunday morning. No way was I staying an extra day, so I ran to the airport to try to get on earlier flight. Little did I know major storms were brewing in the southeast US which wreaked havoc on flights. In addition, Royal Caribbean had just disembarked thousands of passengers who were flying home.

At a packed airport, it was senseless to cue up to rebook, so I called my travel helpline (which provides after hours support for my company). They booked me a JetBlue flight Saturday evening, so I checked in and waited out the day. Several flights were delayed or cancelled due to weather, lack of flight crew, and equipment issues. My 5:20pm departure was ultimately cancelled at 1:30am. We were instructed to go to the Jetblue counter to be rebooked. While waiting in line for 2 hours, I again called my helpline and before I reached the front of the line, I was rebooked on a flight later Sunday.

Another cancelled flight and I was put on standby (Jetblue said I was #1 on the list!) but when I checked in, they said the flight crew had taken the seats. In addition, they were offering clients $2K in vouchers to give up their seats. My luggage made it to LaGuardia, but I did not.

Bleary eyed with fatigue, I called the travel helpline Sunday evening (they know me by first name now!) who booked me a reasonably priced hotel close to the airport. I had heard that rooms were scarce and very high priced due to the situation, so I was relieved to get something so quickly.

After a shower and a good night sleep, I returned to the airport to get a morning flight. You guessed it - again cancelled, so my corporate travel agent rebooked me for that evening (thank goodness for Netflix to pass the time). I was still anxious seeing more delays, so I called my corporate travel agent again, who was searching for any seat to any NY airport and once again saved the day by getting me one departing within the hour. I did make it to JFK that evening.

Lessons learned: without the help of a travel counselor, you are on your own. They have access to the GDS – Global Distribution System airline reservations system and can pull up all the airlines’ seat availability and pricing. An app can’t do that for you. Try calling an OTA in the middle of the night!

And remember the airline staff is trying their hardest as this situation is out of their control as well. Unruly passengers are not tolerated and will be removed from the flight, so don’t be the one who ruins it for the rest of us. While the weather is out of our control, we can still control how we react.

I was grateful for many things during that weekend – that I wasn’t traveling with elderly family members, babies or toddlers. I met some nice people along the way. I had a credit card/cash to handle the extra costs (many vacationers would find this a financial burden). Most importantly, I had the support of a travel professional who helped with air and lodging - someone who was by my side during this ordeal who ultimately got me home.

Tips to survive airport delays:

Check out the weather around the area you are traveling and to/from your destination.
Carry medicine, toothbrush, toothpaste, make-up, moisturizer in your carry-on bag.
Download all the apps that you need along with passwords, logins. Have all your important phone numbers loaded in your contacts.
Explore the airport, walk around and find a quiet place to sit away from the crowds, if possible – restaurants, bars or any place that has outlets to charge your phone (or better yet bring a pre-charged battery pack).
Be flexible – I had 3-4 different airports to select to get out of town. While a slight inconvenience, at least I got to NY.
Layer your clothes – I’m always cold on planes but you are also colder when you are tired or are trying to nap.
Keep all your vitals in one place, e.g., wallet, phone, documents, glasses. When you are tired you tend to get flustered.
With a long wait, don’t watch the clock. Pace yourself with activities: take a walk, eat a meal, browse magazines in the gift shop, get a coffee, watch a video, play a game or call a loved one.
Pack patience, empathy, self-control and kindness.

Get Travel Ready

Safety Above All: Why WestJet was named one of the safest airlines in the world
For the second year in a row, WestJet has been named among the top 10 safest low-cost airlines as rated by AirlineRatings.com. Drawing on factors such as the airline’s safety initiatives, fleet age and COVID-19 protocols, WestJet’s Safety Above All promise has been recognized as one of the best in the world.

Supporting the entire well-being of our guests
Our safety promise extends beyond physical safety, it encompasses our guests’ entire well-being throughout their journey. We offer our guests several tools and products to help them plan for their next trip, including:
• Our Travel Ready Series and a new entry requirements tool to equip guests with all the information they need to prepare for their next trip.
• A new partnership with AZOVA to offer guests convenient molecular self-testing kits and access to COVID-19 testing clinics around the world.
• Access to Calm on WestJet Connect, for our guests to unwind in the sky.

A proven record of care
At WestJet, our Safety Above All promise to our guests and our WestJetters is at the core of everything we do. For over twenty-five years, our culture has put safety at the forefront of every decision we make and we are proud to continue that legacy today. Our modern fleet of aircraft and industry-leading safety standards continue to ensure that no matter how the travel environment changes, our commitment to safety remains our top priority.

Get Travel Ready
We’re looking forward to safely connecting you with the people and places you’ve missed the most. Discover what you need to know before you go, tips for what to expect in the airport, in the air, in destination, what’s required for re-entry into Canada and more.

Your health and safety
The safety of our guests and WestJetters has and continues to be our top priority. From fogging of our aircraft, to distributing disinfectant wipes, our teams have been working diligently to implement new processes and measures across your journey.

On Vacation
Our mission to keep you safe begins long before take-off. We continuously work with our vacation partners to ensure they meet the highest safety and cleaning standards.

Heading to Europe’s Rhine and Moselle Rivers with AmaWaterways

Two Rivers, One Unforgettable Experience

Much like the sailors who were drawn to the beauty of the folklore siren Lorelei, travelers find the powerful allure of the Rhine River and its breathtaking tributary, the Moselle, hard to resist. With so many grand cities, charming villages and breathtaking landscapes stretching along their banks, the best way to experience it all is by cruising with award-winning AmaWaterways.

Why AmaWaterways?

From the moment guests are welcomed on board by AmaWaterways’ extraordinary crew, they are enveloped in warmth and treated like esteemed members of the family. The line’s innovative river cruise ships accommodate an average of just 156 guests, offering the luxury of space and picturesque views, particularly within their signature twin-balcony staterooms, where both a French balcony and an outside balcony await. Plus, with exquisite cuisine, fine wines and included amenities such as a daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour, an onboard Wellness Program, a Michelin star-worthy multi-course tasting menu at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant and high-quality Wi-Fi, no detail is overlooked when it comes to ensuring guests have a memorable experience.

Scenic Sailing at its Finest

Along the Rhine River, guests glide past more than 40 fairytale castles strung like pearls along the banks of Germany’s breathtaking Rhine Gorge. Within the sharp turns of the Moselle Valley, steep vineyards produce some of the world’s finest wines – and the most dramatic scenery. In spring or summer, guests can enjoy the views with a chilled glass of locally-sourced Riesling, or watch the vibrant palette of autumn colors while warming up with rich Rüdesheimer coffee.

Unique and Exclusive Included Experiences

But what would a river cruise with AmaWaterways be without a variety of included excursions and exclusive experiences to immerse guests in the history and culture on shore? On the Rhine and Moselle rivers, guests have the chance to explore up to four countries (Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands) on guided hikes and bike rides, Special Interest Tours such as a visit to Rüdesheim’s mechanical musical instrument museum or a mustard tasting at a historic mill in Cochem, and city tours for all activity levels, from gentle walkers to the most active of guests.

Dock in enchanting Lahnstein to discover Lahneck Castle as part of an exclusive experience on AmaWaterways’ Enchanting Rhine cruise, or hike to the 9^th-century ruins of Bernkastel’s Landshut Castle on their Rhine & Moselle Splendors itinerary. Magnificent cathedrals dominate the city skylines in Strasbourg and Cologne and impress with their high ceilings, remarkable stained glass and impressive facades. But it is AmaWaterways’ carefully selected local guides that enhance each small-group excursion with captivating stories and legends, elevating them from the rest.

When guests reserve their Rhine & Moselle river cruise with AmaWaterways, they open a storybook and fill each page with an adventure that takes their breath away.

It’s Time You Discovered Türkiye

Travellers who book by August 31, 2022 receive an exclusive saving of up to C$250 per couple.

Write your own story at the world’s great crossroads, starting in Istanbul on Goway’s Classic Türkiye.

Goway Travel invites you to experience the best of Türkiye (Turkey) over ten days. Witness to the rise and fall of empires, this incredible country has sparked the imaginations of travellers for centuries. For all the richness of its past, however, Türkiye is forever changing. Goway’s Classic Türkiye brings both its past and present to life with each new sight and experience. Ten days is just enough to scratch the surface, ideal for a first-time visitor, though many choose to return.

The adventure begins in Istanbul, Türkiye’s ancient capital at the crossroads between Europe and Asia. On a tour of the city, guests will explore the Hagia Sophia, along with Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar among other highlights. Their city tour also takes in some of the lesser-known corners of Istanbul, including the first church ever built in Byzantium.

The next stop is Cappadocia, famed for its cave structures including the Cave Churches of Goreme. A hot air balloon ride over this landscape is the perfect start to a day touring the famous dwellings. Then, it’s on to Izmir, gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. The cradle of early Christianity, it is now one of Türkiye’s most celebrated must-sees, including the Temple of Artemis among its ruins.

Goway’s Classic Türkiye includes first class accommodations with daily breakfast in Istanbul, Cappadocia and Izmir. Guests also enjoy internal flights, private airport transfers, small group touring in Istanbul, Cappadocia and Ephesus, plus entrance fees to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and many more.

Contact your travel advisor for details!

Feel The Love On Ten Pumping Adventures

The heart wants what it wants — and for many travellers that’s the chance to fall in love whether it be with your travelling companion, your chosen destination, or the charming people you meet along the way. Facing new challenges together builds greater connections and travel is basically a string of fresh hurdles in a beautiful destination. Learn to make arancini together in Southern Sicily! Catch your first Costa Rican wave with cool new travel buddies! Reconnect in Bali with the person you love most. (Um, that’s you!) All you need to do now is take our hand as

G Adventures guides you through our favourite places to feel and spread love around the world.

For that first big adventure together as a couple.

1. Get to know each other even better in Greece.

Feel the love on tours like: The Best of Greece

2. Gaze into the pools of their eyes in Southern Sicily.

Feel the love on tours like: Explore Southern Sicily

3. Feel your love blossom anew in deer-est Japan.

Feel the love on tours like: Discover Japan

4. Trod fresh ground together on the Trans Bhutan Trail.

Feel the love on tours like: Highlights of the Trans Bhutan Trail

For solo travellers looking to meet new people.

5. Spend some quality time with yourself in Bali.

Feel the love on tours like: Wellness Bali

6. Look skyward with like-minded people in Iceland.

Feel the love on tours like: Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

For big-hearted adventurers wanting to do good.

7. Directly support communities you visit in Sri Lanka.

Feel the love on tours like: Sri Lanka Encompassed

8. Help beaches in the Maldives stay sparkling clean.

Feel the love on tours like: Maldives Dhoni Explorer

For those looking to grow their friend groups globally.

9. Hang ten in Costa Rica and then hang out with new friends.

Feel the love on tours like: Costa Rica Beaches, Wildlife & Wild Times

10. Strengthen your bonds in Southern Thailand.

Feel the love on tours like: Sailing Thailand - Phuket to Phuket

More Space. More Luxury. More Connected. Celebrity Beyond℠

We’ll use your contact details to send you online quotes. We will also share your data with our Travel Consultant in your area who may need to reach out to you regarding further special pricing.

Hero image by Simon Berger on Unsplash

Three Americas. So Many Epic Adventures

No matter the adventure you’re after, you’ll find it in the Americas. Classic road trips of iconic U.S. national parks. Beach-time and zip-lines in Costa Rica. Snorkelling and sea turtles in the Galápagos. What’s not to love? North, Central and South America are filled with every kind of adventure under the sun and the only thing missing? You! Hike the tranquil paths of the Canadian Rockies! Surf the Northern beaches of Peru! Explore the magic and history of Mexico's Mariachi! All on the same side of our great, big, beautiful Earth. The power is now in YOUR hands. Literally. With various travel styles and service levels to accommodate all types of travellers, the Americas have something that is right for everybody.

Explore the Americas and enjoy amazing experiences in our own backyard.

1. Bike with Purpose in Belize.

Classic Belize & Tikal

2. Find your footing in Zion National Park

Best of Utah & Arizona National Parks

3. Hike through Western Canada

Canadian Rockies: National Parks Westbound

4. Find yourself in Colombia's Lost City

Caribbean, the Lost City trek & Medellin Adventure

5. Explore magnificent rainforests in Costa Rica

Trek Hidden Costa Rica

Why go with G?

Book with Confidence

Our Book with Confidence policy lets you cancel and rebook the tour closer to the time of departure at no cost to you, giving you added flexibility and peace of mind.

Small Groups

We keep our groups small to create a sense of camaraderie and allow for closer connections to the places and people you visit. On our tours, you’ll join 12 or so like-minded travellers that, like you, are eager to experience all the amazing things that make our world worth exploring.

CEOs

Most travel companies have tour guides, but not us. We have Chief Experience Officers, or CEO’s for short. Always locally based, they know the area you’re exploring like the back of their well-travelled hand.

Built to support local communities

Since our very first tour, our goal has always been the same: to make the world a better place by building meaningful relationships with local communities. From the places we visit, our tours are built from the ground up to give back to the wider community of every destination we visit.

Flexibility, freedom, fun

Adventure is all about having the freedom to follow your curiosity and discovering the unknown. No matter the Travel Style, our tours balance well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing.

Caprese Tart Recipe

In the summer when tomatoes are in season, I love this tart for a late brunch. If you can find nice roma tomatoes, this is an excellent go-to tart in which the tomatoes actually taste like tomatoes. I had my first Caprese salad in Amalfi, and I will never forget the combination of the creamy mozzarella, acidic tomatoes and herbal basil. Always use the best extra virgin olive oil you can find – avoid the infused varieties from those jug olive oil stores – and a good quality salt, like Maldon. Don’t forget to pair your brunch creations with a festive bottle of bubbly or freshly squeezed juice.

Caprese Tart Recipe Serves 4
Ingredients

2 to 3 roma tomatoes
1 frozen puff pastry sheet (9 by 9 inches), thawed
1 large egg, lightly beaten
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
4 ounces whole milk mozzarella, in ¼ inch half moon-shaped slices
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, mild Italian preferred
4 to 6 fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
Extra virgin olive oil, Ligurian or Tuscan preferred
Maldon salt

Directions

To prepare the tomatoes, slice them ¼ inch thick and drain excess moisture on a paper towel. You can salt them lightly with kosher salt, but it should not be necessary unless the tomatoes are not yielding juice.
Preheat the oven to 425° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
To make the tart shell, lay the pastry on the baking sheet. Score the pastry very lightly 1 inch from the edge on all four corners. Fold the edges over ½ inch so the outer edge of the pastry is now ½ inch. This makes the pastry into a little box-shaped shell. Score the middle of the outer edge of the pastry. Brush the pastry with egg, and make sure the corners are neatly tucked.
Sprinkle the bottom of the tart with Parmesan cheese to seal the tart. With a fork, poke the bottom of the tart so the pastry is well aerated.
Shingle the tomatoes and mozzarella half moons, alternating into a pattern of your choice. When finished, drizzle half of the olive oil over the tomatoes and cheese, and place in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Cool and top with basil and more olive oil. Serve immediately.

About Executive Chef & Director of Culinary Enrichment Kathryn Kelly

Since joining Oceania Cruises in 2011, Chef Kathryn Kelly’s passion for adult learning has been the driving force behind The Culinary Center. While overseeing a faculty of dedicated Chef Instructors, she is the chief architect of more than 100 unique culinary classes as well as our popular Culinary Discovery Tours™, which are immersive chef-led excursions offered in more than 40 destinations worldwide. Chef Kelly completed her doctoral studies in epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and holds two master’s degrees in community medicine and biostatistics. After a fulfilling career in health care, she pursued her lifelong dream of becoming a chef, graduating with honors from The Culinary Institute of America in the fifth decade of her life. Chef Kelly resides on Amelia Island, Florida, and in Austin, Texas. She is an avid golfer and the proud grandmother of Kate, Luke and Jack – who spend cherished hours with their ”YaYa” grilling, cooking and baking for their grateful family.

Where Will Your Journey Downunder Begin?

Dreaming of an Australia vacation? The original land Downunder has reopened to international tourism for the first time since the Australian border closed in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19. For those who’d been forced to put their Australia vacation plans on hold, now’s the time to explore its ancient indigenous culture, catch a glimpse of its unique wildlife, marvel at its diverse landscapes, and grab a drink with the locals in one of its unpretentious cities.

The only question is, where to go first? The obvious answer is Sydney, but while the sparkling Harbour City offers the perfect blend of outdoor appeal and indoors culture, it’s just the beginning of a Downunder adventure.

Sydney and the Blue Mountains

There’s no welcome to Australia quite like seeing the Sydney Harbour Bridge rising over the white sails of Sydney Opera House while a ferry cruises by on Sydney Harbour. There’s an inimitable magic about Australia’s oldest and largest city, from its picture-perfect location to its ever-evolving neighbourhoods. Have lunch on the harbour, explore The Rocks and Bondi Beach, or shop in the marvelous Queen Victoria Building. Then head into the majestic Blue Mountains, a pristine wilderness rich with wildlife and Aboriginal lore.

Uluru and the Red Centre

Uluru/Ayers Rock feels like the heart of Australia, right down to its shape and colour. A sacred place to the local Anangu people, there’s no better destination to learn about Australia’s indigenous culture, or how it’s thrived in this harsh desert landscape. Don’t miss Kata Tjuta/The Olgas, 36 domes formed from the erosion of a monolith that was once larger than Uluru. If you have time, extend the journey to King’s Canyon for spectacular hiking, and Alice Springs for a glimpse of Outback life you’ll get nowhere else in Australia.

North Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef

Reports of the Great Barrier Reef’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. This fragile ecosystem does however need careful management and conservation to ensure it’s still around for future generations. You can do your part by booking a cruise and snorkelling experience with a small operator, visiting a less crowded part of the reef. For a different view of this natural wonder, consider visiting its the southern corners, on the edge of Queensland’s beautiful Whitsunday Islands.

Cosmopolitan Melbourne

Photo by Daniel Pelaez Duque on Unsplash

Melbourne has been called Australia’s cultural capital, its sporting capital, its fashion capital, its theatre capital, its culinary capital… Yes, there’s a theme here. In fact, Melbourne was Australia’s original capital, so the title isn’t entirely misplaced. The city is rich with historical sights including the Shrine of Remembrance, world class museums such as the National Gallery of Victoria and the Melbourne Museum, funky yet friendly neighbourhoods like Fitzroy and St Kilda, and of course, the city’s labyrinth of laneways, intricate arcades, and countless independent cafes. It’s also a top spot for a day trip, whether it’s along the Great Ocean Road to the Twelve Apostles, or to Phillip Island to see the adorable nightly penguin parade.

Adelaide: Gateway to Wine and Wildlife

Photo by Thomas Schaefer on Unsplash

Adelaide might be Australia’s most underrated capital city, a friendly and relaxed cultural hub that has mastered the art of the hidden bar or café. Adelaide is of course known as the gateway to the Barossa Valley, (very) arguably Australia’s most lauded wine region. Regardless of who might agree, Adelaide has claimed its title as Australia’s wine capital (sorry Melbourne!), and is a must-visit for foodies headed to Australia. South Australia also boasts one of the country’s most biodiverse attractions in the form of Kangaroo Island. A short ferry ride from South Australia’s mainland, the island’s isolation has made it a haven for a wide range of native species including koalas and kangaroos, and a wide variety of seals. In between exciting wildlife sightings, be sure to explore Flinders Chase National Park to see Remarkable Rocks and Admiral’s Arch.

Tasmanian Treasures

Photo by Jordan Redshaw on Unsplash

The island state of Tasmania is often the highlight of a second or third trip to Australia, but you might want to bump it up the list. Explore its appealing mid-sized capital, Hobart, which boasts one of the world’s finest and most irreverent modern art museums, the Museum of Old and New Art. Day trip out to the Tasman Peninsula to immerse yourself in Australia’s convict history, or follow the east coast to Freycinet National Park, home to spectacular Wineglass Bay beach. Perhaps Tasmania’s greatest treasure is the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. You can opt to visit just for the day, which gives you time to traverse a couple of spectacular tracks and spot some wildlife, perhaps including the elusive Tasmanian Devil, or commit to the full six-day trek through this incredible slice of Australia.

Introducing Rocky Mountaineer’s Newest Route: Rockies to the Red Rocks

Rocky Mountaineer's newest rail route, Rockies to the Red Rock, showcases the breathtaking views of the southwest United States. This epic two-day route travels between Moab, Utah and Denver, Colorado, with the option to start the journey in either destination.

Traveling east or west, you will pass stunning lush mountain vistas, beautiful plains, and striking desert scenery of Utah and Colorado.

Day 1: Moab to Glenwood Springs

If traveling west from Moab, Utah's Scarlet City, Rocky Mountaineer will begin the journey by Arches National Park, showcasing 73,234-acres of vibrant red desert and famous geological features.

Traveling alongside the Colorado River, some of the most extraordinary, colorful canyons will be seen with one aptly named Ruby Canyon, only accessible by train or from the river. Come the afternoon; the train will ascend through a spectacular 15-mile-long narrow canyon called De Beque Canyon towards its final destination of the day, Glenwood Springs.

Day 2: Glenwood Springs to Denver

Excitement brews for another rail day in the lap of luxury. Steeped in captivating canyons and pristine waterways, you will want cameras in hand to snap photos through iconic Byers Canyon and Gore Canyon, known for epic views and native wildlife.

With a slow descent through the historic Moffat Tunnel, built in 1928, the train will emerge from 6.3 miles of mountainous terrain onto the eastern side of the continental divide towards more lush Colorado scenery. With the final whistle blow in Denver, the two-day journey filled with history, sights, and camaraderie will come to a close.

The Onboard Experience

Traveling by day in Rocky Mountaineer's SilverLeaf coaches, you will take in the continuously changing scenery through oversized windows perfect for viewing. You will be wowed through all your senses by enjoying impeccable service, regionally inspired cuisine, and engaging storytelling.

Rocky Mountaineer also offers a second service class, SilverLeaf Plus, with access to an exclusive renovated lounge car that includes additional indoor space, an exclusive mixologist, a small outdoor viewing area, and additional dining options.

Be the First to Travel on Rocky Mountaineer’s Newest Route

Rockies to the Red Rocks is now available to book for both the 2022 and 2023 Rocky Mountaineer seasons. Book quickly as this rail route is sure to be popular.

Want to book other adventures with the train? Explore Rocky Mountaineer packages in both eastbound and westbound directions, add on extra nights or book specialized tours in the various regions—make this next vacation a trip of a lifetime!

Upgrade Your Travel Plans With WestJet Vacations

When designing the Premium guest experience, we dreamed of what the ideal combination of comfort, value and guest service could look like. By looking beyond what’s expected, we arrived at the answer: WestJet Premium. We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what air travel can be.

WestJet Vacations can upgrade your vacation experience an exceptional way to fly. With spacious and comfort, exclusive amenities, our Premium cabin will bring an elevated vacation from start to finish.

Premium cabin offers an ideal combination of comfort, value and service, including a separated cabin, elevated meal service and signature amenity case.

Benefit - Take advantage of the benefits included with Premium: 2 checked bags, priority check-in, baggage, security screening and boarding.*
Relax- Enjoy more seat comfort with extra leg and elbow room and refresh with a bottle of water upon boarding.*
Dine - Exclusive snacks and beverages are always included in your fare and on flights over one hour, enjoy a Canadian or globally inspired hot meal.*

*Terms and conditions may apply

Start your flight in style. We've partnered with airport lounges to provide you with comfortable seating, business facilities, Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, and more. Limited lounge access now available. Lounge access is starting to return in select airports. Contact your travel advisor to learn the current status and operating hours of each lounge.

Platinum, Gold and Silver WestJet Rewards members are eligible for complimentary lounge access based on their tier benefits:

• To receive access, the above guests must present a valid boarding pass displaying a WestJet flight number.

• Guests are permitted access three (3) hours prior to scheduled flight departure time.

• All other guests may be eligible for discounted walk-in rates, as offered.

Private Transfer

Get to the fun faster with private transfers. Travel in comfort and beat the crowds to your resort. Book private transfers in Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Montego Bay. Direct shared, non-stop transport on arrival to hotel, and on departure to airport. More destinations will be added all the time.

The Best Way to Experience Alaska is with Norwegian

There's something about cruising Alaska that fills travelers with awe and exhilaration. Perhaps it is sailing past expansive glaciers glistening in the sunlight. Maybe it's witnessing The Last Frontier's dramatic terrain that transforms from wildflower-studded fields to immense old-growth forests that bow before snowcapped mountains stretching up toward the glow of the Northern Lights, all from the deck of your cruise ship. Or perhaps it's the opportunity to come closer to the diverse range of wildlife claiming the surrounding waterways and storied landscapes as their home. No matter what aspect of Alaska you connect with, one thing is certain — you'll want to soak in as much of the natural beauty and stunning vistas as possible during your cruise vacation.

That's why Norwegian has carefully selected five of its award-winning cruise ships to do just that on a variety of unique and specially-curated itineraries — for you to enjoy immersive Alaska experiences from ship to shore. Our ships are custom-built for the best way to discover Alaska while our extended sailing season allows for unique experiences like viewing the Northern Lights. If you're ready to Break Free and start planning your Alaska cruise, read on to find your ideal ship to explore The Last Frontier.

Feel Free to Let the Outside In

Our larger cruise ships offer some pretty remarkable onboard experiences. Imagine zooming around a two-story race track as a bald eagle soars overhead. Imagine playing nighttime laser tag beneath the shimmering Milky Way or savoring a romantic dinner al fresco as the sun sinks behind jagged peaks. You can do all this and so much more aboard two of Norwegian’s newest ships, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore — custom-built for the spectacular.

After an incredible hike to Mendenhall Glacier, return on board and unwind in the revolutionary 180-degree Observation Lounge with your favorite cocktail or a steaming cup of hot chocolate. The Observation Lounge is located at the front of the ship and features floor-to-ceiling windows, plush chairs, and a full-service bar — the ideal space to watch Alaska’s dramatic landscape unfold before you.

Feel Free to Let the Moment In

Our smaller ships — Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sun — are ideal for those seeking a more intimate cruising experience in The Last Frontier. Embark on a longer cruise itinerary set to a slower pace, allowing you more time to be immersed in authentic Alaska experiences.

Want to hang with adorable pups at a dog sled camp? You got it. Daydreaming of the Inside Passage’s extraordinary vistas and wildlife? Bring your camera! Care to explore some of Glacier Bay’s legendary terrain? Lace up those hiking boots and bring the wonder of the surrounding nature back on board with you. Refresh and recharge in the Thermal Spa Suite where your worries will melt away as mountainous vistas fill the floor-to-ceiling windows. Count the nearby glaciers from the comfort of a hot tub. Watch a whale splash in the sea before you take a dip in the top-deck pool. Take walking or jogging to new heights on the top-deck jogging/walking track where The Last Frontier provides an unforgettable backdrop for your workout. Then toast incredible panoramic views from the vibrant Spinnaker Lounge. Along the way, delight in a variety of delicious dining options, from upscale French, Brazilian and Japanese cuisine to casual dishes served poolside. Start your morning with room service breakfast served on your private balcony with a side of breathtaking vistas. Then after returning from unforgettable shore excursions, make each night incredible with live entertainment and music or by rolling into good times at the casino.

Feel Free to Experience Authentic Alaska

Alaska experiences are as seemingly vast as the state’s untouched wilderness. And whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, wildlife enthusiast or history buff, finding the ideal Alaska cruise ship to get you there is a breeze with Norwegian. Our shore excursions will immerse you in unforgettable authentic experiences while our five incredible cruise ships ensure that you won’t miss a moment of the spectacular natural beauty of The Last Frontier during your Alaska cruise.

Which Alaska cruise ship do you want to experience? Let us know in the comments! Ready to book your vacation? Explore our cruise deals and sign up for emails to get the latest offers right to your inbox.

Overnight Cruises: Where to Go, What to See

Overnight cruises are a fun way to fully experience the best a destination has to offer. You can take your time exploring your favorite ports and discovering the vibrant nightlife of a city.

Whether you’re hoping to see the sunset in the Mediterranean, have dinner in a Michelin-starred restaurant in Asia, or dance all night in the Caribbean, here’s everything you need to know about cruises with overnight stays.

What’s it like being on overnight cruises?

On a cruise with an overnight stay, you’ll feel as if you’re spending the night in a floating hotel, since you can come and go as you please throughout the evening. At your overnight port stops, you can go sightseeing during the day, come back to the ship to change, and then head back out and enjoy the city’s restaurants and nightlife.

What cruises stay in port overnight?

Cruises with overnight stays are available in over 40 ports of call on Celebrity Cruises in each major destination Celebrity cruises to. Sometimes, overnights will occur during the middle of a cruise. Other times, overnight stays are offered at a cruise’s embarkation port just after you board, or at a ship’s last port before you disembark the following day.

Here are some of the overnight cruises you can experience on Celebrity Cruises:

Overnight Cruise Ports in the Caribbean

On a Celebrity Caribbean cruise, experience a unique overnight stay in Aruba’s Oranjestad or Curaçao’s Willemstad.

After spending the day lounging on one of Aruba’s white-sand beaches, cap off the day by boarding a catamaran and sipping a cocktail as you enjoy a breathtaking view of the sunset.

In Curaçao, make the most of your extra day by strolling along its picturesque waterfront and through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, make sure to try the island’s famous blue Curaçao.

Overnight Cruise Ports in Europe

On a cruise to Europe, you’ll have the opportunity to stay overnight in Lisbon or Porto, Portugal; Venice, Italy; Reykjavik or Akureyri, Iceland; Barcelona or Bilbao, Spain; Bordeaux, France; Cork, Ireland; Jerusalem, Israel; Istanbul, Turkey; and more!

At an overnight stop in Lisbon, Portugal, board a funicular to the top of Bairro Alto, where you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the city’s landmarks and enjoy traditional Fado music. With an overnight stay in Porto, sample local port wine at your leisure and discover the sprawling Douro Valley. While in Italy, couples will want to make sure to take a romantic gondola ride on a cruise with an overnight stay in Venice.

Take advantage of your two days in Iceland, either in Reykjavik and Akureyri, and explore the country’s stunning natural wonders, including Godafoss waterfall, the famous Blue Lagoon, and the lava fields of Dimmuborgir.

Make your way through one of the world’s largest and most prestigious wine-producing regions with an overnight in Bordeaux. In Spain, you’ll get an extra day in either Barcelona or Bilbao, where you can experience even more tapas, culture, and breathtaking architecture.

Explore the magnificent sites of Jerusalem over two days on a cruise to Israel. Some cruise itineraries to Turkey and the Greek Islands include a night in Istanbul, where you can tour famous landmarks like the Blue Mosque and shop for local goods at its famous Grand Bazaar.

There are more overnight cruise ports that Celebrity Cruises offers. To start planning your dream cruise that includes an overnight in port, contact your travel advisor to book your next cruise with an overnight stay and reserve your evening shore excursions.

Ready. Set. Vacation.

If the last couple years have taught us anything, it’s that sharing quality time with loved ones is the most important thing in our lives. Material objects aren’t as important as they once were, nor the nose-to-the-grindstone, 9-to5 to acquire them. Today, it’s about better time management, richer life experiences, and keeping our loved ones close by our sides. It’s also about getting back to what’s most meaningful in our lives – and for many of us that includes gathering the gang together for another unforgettable family vacation, but with a twist.

Today, family vacations aren’t just about grabbing your spouse or partner and any kids you may have, and heading off to seek new adventures. It’s about bringing along grandma and grandpa, and maybe Aunt Sue and Uncle Ernie. Family and multigenerational travel is exploding and it makes sense as it offers the perfect way to share time together away from demands of everyday life.

Keep in mind that planning ahead is of the utmost importance. You’ll want to choose a family-friendly vacation that offers plenty of options for everyone. Cruises and all-inclusive resorts are two of the best ways to maximize fun and everyone’s vacation dollars. A large number of family-centric Caribbean cruises, as well as family resorts in Mexico, cater to every age group, fit most budgets, and are easy to get to for most everyone. Europe and the Mediterranean are also ideal for families and have plenty to see and do. Ireland, Italy, Spain and Greece are especially perfect for families.

While planning a getaway that everyone in your brood will love may seem like a tall order, a little help from your local travel professional can make it a piece of cake – so dig and have a blast!

See you at the airport soon!

WestJet Vacations - Get Travel Ready

Pre-travel Entry requirements - Sherpa tool
Travel requirements can change quickly. Use the Sherpa tool to discover the travel requirements for your specific itinerary. We recommend checking requirements before you book your trip, and prior to travelling. Contact your travel advisor for current entry requirements.

COVID-19 testing with AZOVA
We’ve partnered with AZOVA to provide testing locations in most destinations to make travel easier. Contact your travel advisor for more information.

Travel insurance
WestJet and WestJet Vacations strongly recommend that you have travel insurance before leaving the country and purchase this through your travel advisor. Having the appropriate travel insurance can assist with expenses related to medical costs or additional fees related to trip interruptions such as extending your stay in-destination or changing your original flights. Insurance varies by package and provider and it is best you work with your travel advisor to assist you with your options.

Helpful tips:

Check your passport or Government-issued ID to make sure it is not expired
Download the WestJet app Apple | Google Play
Check your pre-departure emails
Ensure that the name on your proof of vaccination matches both the name(s) on your booking and
government-issued ID
Provide your proof of vaccination during online check in by uploading your Smart Health QR Code as a .jpg or .png file
Plan to arrive at the airport early as gates and/or food & beverage options may have moved
Pack a mask (or two) as it will be required at the airport, inflight and in-destination
Pack hand sanitizer

How to prepare for travel

Download your Smart Health Card QR Code: https://smarthealth.cards/en/
Ensure the name on the QR Code matches the name(s) on the booking
Save your QR Code as an image on your device
Many provinces provide a PDF, which our system does not accept
You can save your QR Code as an image by exporting it or taking a screenshot
Take a screenshot of your original federally issued QR Code (not from your apple wallet)
Travelling outside of Canada
You must use ArriveCAN online government of Canada tool before and after your entry to Canada.

At the airport

Getting to the airport
We are currently experiencing an increase in processing times due to additional COVID-related requirements. Start your trip earlier to ensure you make it through airport security on time. Arrive at the airport on time for all WestJet departures, we recommend:

Canadian departures arrive at the airport 150 minutes (2.5 hours) prior to departure.
International departures arrive at the airport 180 minutes (3 hours) prior to departure.
While there may be some changes at the airport, one thing has not changed, our WestJetters will be there to assist you.
If someone is dropping you off or picking you up, they must stay outside.
Masks are required at all times. Face mask policy.
Some airports have our new touchless bag tagging stations.
Enhanced cleaning measures and physical distancing are in place.
Use the WestJet app for added convenience and to reduce touchpoints on your journey.
Check-in, get your electronic boarding pass and enjoy Connect – our inflight entertainment system.
Complete the health questionnaire.

In the air

Window or aisle? Movie or Podcast? You can travel with peace of mind knowing our aircraft are cleaned extensively and frequently and are equipped with HEPA filters, so you can breathe a little easier as you fly with us.
We are excited to partner with Calm to prioritize your mental wellbeing while inflight. Explore a collection of meditations, relaxation exercises and Sleep Stories, now available on WestJet Connect.
Our inflight menus can now be viewed on the WestJet app. Depending on your flight, the snack or meal options might be different.

Safety Above All
WestJet was named one of the safest airlines in the world for the second year in a row. Drawing on factors such as the airline’s safety initiatives, fleet age and COVID-19 protocols, WestJet’s Safety Above All promise has been recognized as one of the best in the world. Watch our Travel Ready video series.

WestJet Vacations Travel Protection Plan
WestJet Vacations Travel Protection Plan allows for increased flexibility with changes and cancellations and provides peace of mind for guests and must be purchased at the time of booking your vacation package. The Travel Protection Plan is available for WestJet Vacation destinations in Canada, the United States, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Before you leave

Visit your hotel’s website to learn about their health and safety protocols, operational guidelines, and facility availability.

Transportation

Complete a quick health screening before boarding the transfer vehicle.
Masks are required in all shared transportation.
Shuttles are cleaned and disinfected after each trip.
Shuttle capacity is limited to support physical distancing.

WestJet Vacations arrival in-destination
When you arrive at your destination, you will receive a welcome package that includes information regarding a meet and greet session with your WestJet Vacations destination representative where you are provided with their contact details. It is important for you to keep this information on hand in case you need assistance while you are in-destination. The WestJet Vacations destination representative is your best resource for assisting with any issues in-destination.

At your hotel or resort
WestJet Vacations hotel partners have COVID-19 plans and protocols in place to ensure the safety of your clients. Please contact your travel advisor to learn about the various programs that are available. Some of our hotel partners offer in-destination COVID-19 testing. Be sure to arrange your test early in your trip.
COVID precautions in vacation destinations

Testing in WestJet Vacation destinations
In the event you are unable to find a lab with AZOVA, onsite COVID-19 testing options are available for Canadians at many hotels in WestJet Vacations destinations, such as Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, Huatulco, Mazatlán, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata, La Romana, Costa Rica, Jamaica and Barbados. Please confirm with the hotel front desk or guest services for further information.

If you test positive with COVID-19
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 in-destination, WestJet Vacations will make every effort to rebook the flight and/or transfer for you. Contact your travel advisor.

Contact your travel advisor to find out what is covered in your insurance for your extended stay. You should also refer to both the local government and the Canadian government’s official websites to obtain the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 restrictions, quarantine requirements and travel advisories. Contact your travel advisor for assistance in changing your travel plans.

It is important to note that you are responsible for your extended stay (e.g., booking, expenses, etc.). Additionally, WestJet Vacations is not responsible for the condition of isolation sections, safety protocols, or service levels of the hotel during the quarantine period. It should be expected that you will be required to follow local hotel and government restrictions. WestJet Vacations is not affiliated with the testing facilities in destination, and we cannot guarantee quality, availability, pricing or on-time delivery of COVID-19 tests.

WestJet Vacations in-destination contact information
Please note you will receive contact email and phone numbers that are reserved exclusively for you while you are in-destination. These contacts will connect you with our in-destination teams that will work with our various departments to try and get your travel plans arranged accordingly.

Luxury Travel Trends For 2022

There’s no denying that travel certainly looks a lot different today than it did a couple years ago. In fact, pent-up demand has fueled a travel renaissance as people ache to go exploring once more. From ocean and river cruises to hotels and resorts, even rail journeys, luxury travel is bouncing back, finding new ways to satisfy one’s taste for the good life. You might even say we’re entering a new era of luxury travel, one that’s placing greater emphasis on immersive and authentic experiences.

So where are people headed to? Well, pretty much everywhere – literally. Exotic and uncharted destinations are hot and new expedition cruises now traverse nearly every large body of water on the planet, including the poles. Interest in well-being travel has skyrocketed since the start of the pandemic with many new hotels and resorts offering new wellness programs and services to help guests feel better than ever. Even big cities throughout the world are awakening from their recent hibernations as visitors are once again returning.

But by far, the most meaningful trend this year is “conscious travel.” These are travel experiences that combine sustainability and wellness, cultural immersion and exploration, adventure and involvement with the destination, as well as the supporting of conservation and environmental projects, empowerment of artisans, producers and local businesses.

Lastly, we can’t forget about travel advisors who continue to be an indispensable source of information, knowledge, and expertise. Unless you’re the type of adventurer who loves the thrill of uncertainty, one of the most important steps you can take when considering your next travel experience is to consult a travel professional who will make sure your adventure is everything you want it to be – and so much more.

Europe’s Best-Kept Travel Secret: Off-Season

Mon, 15 Jun 26 21:01:47 +0000

Off-Season Europe with Air Canada Vacations

Skip the crowds and discover a more relaxed, authentic side of Europe with Air Canada Vacations. Travel during the quieter season and enjoy iconic destinations with fewer lines, more space, and a deeper connection to the places you visit.

From charming cobblestone streets to world-renowned landmarks, off-season travel lets you experience Europe at your own pace—without the peak-season rush. Whether you're strolling through historic cities, enjoying local cafés, or exploring cultural treasures, every moment feels more personal.

Exclusive Offer

Take advantage of special savings on select Europe tour packages, plus enjoy added value designed to make your journey even smoother:

50% off CareFlex travel protection
1 checked bag and 1 carry-on included
Access to curated itineraries and seamless travel experiences

Travel Details

Booking Window: Now through July 5, 2026
Travel Window: September 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027
Destinations: Select European cities and multi-country itineraries

Why Book Off-Season?

Fewer crowds at top attractions
More availability at popular hotels and tours
A more relaxed, immersive travel experience
Great value compared to peak travel periods

Start Planning

Now is the perfect time to experience Europe differently—with more freedom, more comfort, and more value. Let Air Canada Vacations help you create a seamless journey from departure to return.

Europe Without the Lines, the Crowds, or the Chaos

Mon, 15 Jun 26 20:38:15 +0000

Europe, Before Everyone Else Remembers

There’s a version of Europe most travelers never meet—not because it’s hidden, but because they go at the wrong time. By the time summer arrives, it’s already disappeared into crowds, noise, and the quiet competition of too many people chasing the same moments.

But just outside that window, something shifts. The same cities feel calmer, more personal, almost as if they’ve exhaled. You still get the landmarks, the history, the atmosphere—but without having to work for it.

And that changes everything.

A Different Pace, A Different Experience

In peak season, Europe moves quickly. Days are structured around reservations, timing, and navigating crowds. It’s exciting, but it’s also demanding.

Off-season travel softens that edge. You can walk into places instead of waiting your turn. You can sit a little longer, wander a little farther, and let the day unfold without constantly checking the time.

It’s not that there’s less to do. It’s that you finally have the space to do it well.

What You Start to Notice

When you’re not rushing, your attention shifts.

You notice the quiet of a morning street before it fills. The rhythm of a neighborhood that isn’t performing for visitors. The kind of moments that don’t make itineraries, but stay with you long after the trip ends.

You stop thinking in highlights and start experiencing places as they are—layered, lived-in, and far more interesting than what fits into a checklist.

Why Timing Quietly Changes Everything

Ask anyone where to go in Europe, and you’ll get endless suggestions. Ask when to go, and the conversation becomes more meaningful.

Because timing reshapes the entire experience.

The same café feels different when you’re not waiting. The same street feels different when it’s not crowded. Even the pace of your own day begins to shift when you’re not adjusting to demand at every step.

It’s a subtle change—until you realize how much more of the destination you’re actually taking in.

The Version Most People Miss

Most travelers don’t choose when they go—they choose when they can go. School calendars, work schedules, привычная travel seasons.

And that’s how this version of Europe gets overlooked.

Not because it isn’t worth experiencing, but because it sits just outside the obvious window. Quietly better, without demanding attention.

Once you’ve seen it this way, though, it’s hard to go back.

Start the Conversation

The best trips don’t begin with booking dates or destinations. They begin with a different question entirely: what kind of experience do you actually want?

Let your travel expert unlock the Europe trip you didn’t know you needed.

Because sometimes the biggest shift isn’t where you go—but choosing to go when everything finally feels just right.

The Cruise Line Breeding “Super Coral” and Other Good News for World Oceans Day

Mon, 15 Jun 26 18:53:04 +0000

The private island for Explora Journeys and MSC Cruises, MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, is at the forefront of a cruise-industry-wide drive to support and sustain the world’s oceans. World Oceans Day is the perfect time to share some of those stories as we reflect that nearly three-quarters of our Earth is covered in oceans. Whether you live on one of the world’s coastlines or cruise, oceans affect us all.

The water dominating the surface of our “Blue Planet,” helps regulate the entire world’s climate and weather by absorbing heat and storing carbon dioxide.

Did you know oceans produce half of the oxygen we breathe, through microscopic marine plants - phytoplankton? The heat and movement of oceans also affect weather patterns, rainfall, and temperatures that affect farming and freshwater supplies far beyond coastal regions.

As a cruise lover, I’m proud that cruising stands up for oceans and our Blue Planet.

The cruise industry has a collective goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), every new generation of cruise ship is 20% more energy-efficient than the previous class of ships. So new cruise ships are about more than new design, dining, and entertainment experiences!

If, like me, the more you cruise, the more you fall in love with and want to protect the oceans.

On World Oceans Day, we can learn more about how cruise lines are being part of the solution, the projects they are supporting and spearheading - some of which you, as a cruise guest, can participate in! - and what we as individuals can do to make a difference.

MSC Cruises / Explora Journeys / MSC Foundation

Super Coral Program – Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas

WATCH VIDEO ABOVE: Meet the marine biologist helping develop ‘Super Coral.’

The Super Coral Program is one of the cruise industry's most ambitious coral-restoration initiatives. Scientists are identifying and propagating heat-resistant strains of endangered coral to help reefs survive warming oceans. Guests visiting Ocean Cay can see coral nurseries and learn about ongoing restoration efforts.

Mission Blue Partnership

The Mission Blue Partnership is a multi-year collaboration supporting marine protected areas ("Hope Spots"), ocean literacy programs and seagrass restoration projects in the Mediterranean.

“Oceans Day powered by MSC Foundation.”

To celebrate World Oceans Day this year, it has launched “Oceans Day powered by MSC Foundation.” It’s a new onboard program for children and families combining learning, creativity and participation and helping nurture the next generation of ocean ambassadors.

The onboard program is designed around three pillars – celebrating the ocean on every cruise, placing children and families at the center of the experience, and fostering ocean literacy. It draws on the MSC Foundation’s years of collaboration with conservation and education partners, combining lessons from its restoration work at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas with the expertise of organizations such as Mission Blue and Marevivo to create immersive experiences.

Viking Expeditions

Science Lab Program

Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris were designed as working research vessels with onboard wet and dry laboratories. Scientists sail alongside guests conducting research in polar regions, the Great Lakes and other sensitive ecosystems.

Genomics at Sea Program (GASP)

In partnership with the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the J. Craig Venter Institute, Viking supports onboard environmental DNA (eDNA) sequencing to study marine biodiversity and monitor ecosystem health through its Genomics at Sea Program.

Fjord Phyto Citizen Science Program

Guests help collect phytoplankton samples for NASA-supported research. Phytoplankton produce roughly half of Earth's oxygen and are critical indicators of ocean health.

Great Lakes Research Partnerships

Viking's expedition ships support freshwater science, biodiversity monitoring and water-quality research throughout the Great Lakes—an important reminder that protecting waterways extends far beyond oceans.

WATCH VIDEO: Highlights of a Great Lakes Cruise on Viking with Scientists and Guest-included Research

HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions)

Citizen Science Program

Widely considered the gold standard in expedition cruise citizen science. Guests can participate in collecting water samples, recording wildlife sightings, monitoring marine debris and supporting climate research.

HX Foundation

Supports projects focused on marine biodiversity, plastic pollution reduction, conservation education and community initiatives in destinations visited by expedition ships.

Ponant

Ponant Science Foundation

Funds scientific research and biodiversity studies and brings researchers on board the fleet in remote marine environments including Antarctica, the Arctic and Pacific islands.

Ponant and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) recently unveiled new initiatives to protect polar environments. Their enhanced partnership introduces:

The Polar Ocean Image Collection: A collaboration with WHOI and The Ocean Agency, this open-access bank provides non-commercial, media-quality images to scientists, educators, and journalists to raise awareness about rapidly changing cryospheric regions.
AI-enabled Whale Spotter Cameras and autonomous sensors on board ships to study remote sea ice and protect marine wildlife from vessel strikes.

Adelie Penguins, Antarctica image: Alexandre Herbrecht, Studio PONANT / Ocean Image Bank

Royal Caribbean Group

WWF Global Ocean Conservation Partnership

Royal Caribbean Group, the parent company of Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, has a partnership with the renowned World Wildlife Fund supporting sustainable tourism, destination stewardship, responsible seafood sourcing, ocean conservation projects and environmental education.

World Wildlife at Sea

An onboard ocean education program, developed with WWF, helps guests better understand marine ecosystems and conservation challenges.

Celebrity Cruises

Galápagos Conservation Projects

Celebrity's Galápagos operations support a variety of conservation initiatives in partnership with the local community and the Galápagos National Park. Efforts have included giant tortoise restoration, invasive species management and habitat protection.

Cunard

ORCA Marine Mammal Monitoring Program

Passengers and trained volunteers help collect whale, dolphin and porpoise sighting data for the UK marine conservation charity ORCA. Decades of observations have contributed to marine mammal research and protection efforts.

Lindblad Expeditions/ Nat Geo

National Geographic-Lindblad Conservation Fund

Supports marine conservation, scientific research and habitat protection in destinations including Antarctica, Alaska and the Galápagos.

Research and Scientist-in-Residence Programs

Scientists frequently travel aboard Lindblad ships, conducting field research and engaging guests in ongoing conservation projects.

Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship

This program gives pre-K–12 educators the opportunity to sail on board ships to participate in field-based exploration, providing a transformative, real-world experience that teachers can bring back to their classrooms, schools, and communities, improving geographic literacy and awareness.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings

Coral Reef and Mangrove Restoration Projects

Through destination partnerships and sustainability programs, Norwegian's brands—including Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises—have participated in coral reef, mangrove and coastal restoration initiatives in destinations throughout the Caribbean and elsewhere.

Cruise travel is a choice and a privilege, and we hope cruise travelers will support cruise lines and projects that make a difference to preserve, sustain, and protect the vast oceans that inspire us to travel and sustain the planet.

START YOUR CRUISE TRIP!

Videos and story: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist

Images courtesy of respective cruise lines or as noted

Scotland's Greatest Summer Spectacle: The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Mon, 15 Jun 26 18:50:02 +0000

Every August, something remarkable happens on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. The ancient fortress, perched atop the craggy remnants of a volcano in the center of Scotland’s capital city, becomes the backdrop for one of the world's most moving and evocative live performances: the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Not ‘That’ Kind of Tattoo

Don’t let the name fool you. There’s no ink involved! The word "tattoo" comes from a 17th-century Dutch military phrase “doe den tap toe,” meaning "turn off the taps"—a specific theme played by drummers in towns near barracks, signalling bartenders to stop serving and soldiers to abide by curfew. Scottish mercenaries took the term home, morphing it into referring tomilitary evening ceremonies with displays of music, marching, and pageantry of massed bands of bagpipes and drums played by Scots in full Highland military regalia.

Edinburgh turned the historic tradition of tattoos into an international phenomenon and spectacle that still today takes your breath away – and transports you to ancient Highland Scots culture.

I’ve always been moved by bagpipes and loved how the sight of a kilt or tartan reminded me of my Scottish ancestry.

But you don’t need even one drop of Scottish blood in your family tree to be pulled into another time, life and place at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Goosebumps

It’s the setting as much as the pipes and drums.

As the sun sets over Scotland's capital, the floodlit walls of Edinburgh Castle tower above tiered grandstands on the castle’s ramped esplanade, built specifically for the event. Massive torches flicker in the wind.

The castle isn't merely a backdrop; it's a character in the show, and a virtual time machine for everyone in attendance. Pipes echo off the stone ramparts, and kilts snap around knees. If you know your tartans, in your head, you start naming the clans and regiments represented.

Precision Scottish military bands aren’t the only ones marching across the parade ground. Every year, dancers, drummers, singers, and cultural performers from around the world are invited to Edinburgh to complement Scottish culture with dramatic international color. Think equestrian regiments from North Africa galloping in formation. Or precision rifle drill teams from elite American military units.

Alongside storied projection mapping, lighting effects, lasers, and fireworks that add contemporary showmanship without diminishing the Tattoo’s historic roots.

And just when you think there’s nothing more majestic than massed pipes and drums making the earth vibrate under your feet ….

The Tattoo draws to an end with a lone piper appearing on the battlements next to a single torch that extinguishes as the last note fades into the wind and the hair on the back of your neck rises.

Tattoo Tips for Travelers

The three-week Tattoo is perfectly timed for summer visitors to Scotland. It takes place during Edinburgh's famed August festival season, sharing the city with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Edinburgh International Festival, and a host of other cultural events.

By day, explore the medieval Old Town, Georgian New Town, museums, whisky bars, and literary landmarks. By night, join thousands of spectators climbing Castle Hill for the Tattoo.

Travel tips:

Book early. The best seats often sell months in advance. We were lucky to be cruising in Scotland, and the Tattoo was an included shore experience with VIP seating, so our seats had already been secured. A cruise line or a tour operator books blocks of often the best seats in advance; another reason to let someone else take care of your travel details!
Dress for Scottish weather, which can change dramatically even during a single performance! The Tattoo is famously a rain-or-shine event.

In a world overflowing with festivals, the Edinburgh Tattoo remains genuinely unique. Part concert, part military tradition, part deeply meaningful Scottish cultural touchstone, and part theatrical spectacle, it is one of those rare travel experiences that moves you to the point of goosebumps and remains at the top of your memory for years to come.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist

The Natural Thrills of Costa Rica

Mon, 15 Jun 26 18:49:22 +0000

If you want the focus of your vacation to be an authentic immersion into raw nature, put Costa Rica on your list of outdoor adventure destinations. This Central American country is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth. In a territory roughly the size of the state of Vermont, it contains nearly 6% of the world’s known species!

Even more amazing is that over 25% of Costa Rica – from its cloud forests and rainforests to volcanoes, mangroves, and coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea – is protected through a network of national parks, wildlife refuges, and conservation areas. A global model for conservation and sustainable tourism through decades of early vision and environmental leadership, including large-scale reforestation and ecotourism initiatives.

Embrace Your Wild Side

Immerse yourself in nature and push your physical limits in adrenaline-fueled expeditions like these:

White Water Rafting on the Pacuare River:

Often ranked among the world’s best rafting rivers, the Pacuare delivers 18 miles of heart-pounding rapids (Class III–IV) in just one day, through a lush, untouched rainforest. Also, with 52 rapids in a single day trip and sights like the towering Huacas waterfall, this is an unforgettable ride packed with natural beauty and pure excitement.

Catching Waves:

Witch’s Rock, located in Santa Rosa National Park, is famous for its powerful A-frame wave that breaks both left and right. Best accessed by boat, this remote surf spot offers consistent conditions, especially when southwest swells meet northeast winds. For those chasing one of the longest left-hand breaks in the world, Pavones is also a must. Tucked along the southern Pacific coast, it delivers legendary rides during Green Season swells.

Mountain Biking:

Explore the rugged beauty of Arenal’s rainforest on two wheels through trails deep within the jungle, zooming through farmlands, river crossings, and mud roads, while even getting to witness epic volcano views and the beautiful Lake Arenal. Whether you're up for short slope casual riding or tackling Arenal 1968's high-intensity downhill tracks with dramatic curves, this region offers challenging terrain and excitement.

Volcano and Cave Exploration:

Costa Rica's most active volcanic region offers a different kind of adrenaline. Hike through steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and volcanic landscapes before descending into lesser-known lava tube formations and caves created by past eruptions. The terrain combines geology, wildlife, and adventure, with opportunities for rugged backcountry trekking far from the country's more visited attractions.

Extreme Canyoning:

Canyoneering just outside La Fortuna is a full-body adventure through Costa Rica’s wild rainforest terrain. Rappel down waterfalls up to 200 feet in height, scramble up and down rocky cliffs, and leap into pristine deep canyon pools—some cliffs from as high as 40 feet. Prepare for a packed itinerary full of adrenaline-fueled experiences that blend challenges with panoramic scenic views.

Sea Kayaking and Bioluminescence Paddling:

For an adventure that unfolds after dark, paddle through mangrove channels and protected coastal waters in the Gulf of Nicoya, where microscopic organisms create glowing blue trails in the water with every stroke of your paddle. Night kayaking trips combine wildlife spotting, navigation by starlight, and the rare chance to witness one of nature's most remarkable phenomena.

TIP:

Look for reputable, accredited operators for the best advice and experienced guides that ensure you optimize the timing and safety of your adventure for the thrill of a lifetime.

As you’ll hear time and time again in Costa Rica: “Pura Vida!” or “Pure Life!” The unofficial national motto and mindset: the value of spending time outdoors, connecting with nature, prioritizing family and community, simplicity and a positive outlook.

It’s the perfect call to an adventure in the extraordinary embrace of Costa Rica.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images: Visit Costa Rica

Gaudí at 100: Barcelona's Most Famous Architect "Raising the Roof" of the City

Mon, 15 Jun 26 18:41:22 +0000

One hundred years after his death, Antoni Gaudí remains impossible to separate from Barcelona.

The Catalan architect died on June 10, 1926, one of the most defining architects of any era, tragically struck down by a tram. A century later, his extraordinary buildings are not only the city's most recognizable landmarks, but they have also become symbols of Barcelona itself. For most travelers, a first visit to the Catalan regional capital is as much about discovering Gaudí as it is about experiencing Spain.

Celebrating the Centenary: Momentous Milestone for Sagrada Familia

Throughout 2026, Barcelona is hosting a year-long program of events commemorating the architect's life and legacy with exhibitions, concerts, cultural programs, special tours, and commemorative events across the city.

The centrepiece of the anniversary is a milestone in the long story of the Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s masterpiece towering over Barcelona.

The basilica that is the greatest legacy of the architect is still being built. Construction on Sagrada Familia began in 1882. And although Sagrada Familia will not be fully completed until well into the next decade, it has already achieved UNESCO World Heritage designation.

In death, Gaudí remains with his life’s work. He is buried beneath the nave.

The 100th anniversary of his passing was commemorated on June 10, 2026, by the inauguration of the completed Tower of Jesus Christ, now the tallest church tower in the world.

It was a celebration for the ages, with Pope Leo XIV traveling to Barcelona, joining the King and Queen of Spain and other dignitaries for a commemorative Mass celebrating Antoni Gaudí, and inaugurating the Tower of Jesus Christ.

A cross that reaches the sky above Barcelona

The completion of the 172.5-meter (568-foot) tower fulfills one of Gaudí's most ambitious visions.

The Tower of Jesus Christ is the central tower of the Sagrada Família tower grouping, and the last one to be completed. It is surrounded by the four towers of the Evangelists and the tower of the Virgin Mary. It has 12 faces. The tower is topped with a three-dimensional four-armed cross, which itself is 17 meters (55 feet) tall and 13.5 meters (44 feet) wide.

Gaudí wanted the cross to shine both day and night. So it features white enameled ceramic and glass, two shiny materials that reflect the vivid Barcelona sun (and can also stand up to exposure to the elements). Spotlights will ensure the cross continues to be a beacon throughout the nights.

Inside, the church remains one of Europe's most phenomenal interiors. Gaudí designed the soaring columns to resemble a forest canopy, with stained glass creating an ever-changing play of light throughout the day.

The ceremonies were an exceptional tribute to the architect and his dream of building a temple conceived as a ‘great stone Bible,’ where art and architecture share with the world the values that inspired the basilica: faith, culture, nature, spirituality and the pursuit of beauty.

The Architect Who Became Barcelona

Gaudí's significance extends far beyond architecture. His work helped shape modern Catalan identity and became one of the defining expressions of Catalonia's artistic and cultural confidence at the turn of the twentieth century.

Inspired by nature, religion, geometry, and local craftsmanship, he rejected conventional architectural rules and created a style that remains instantly recognizable and completely unique today. Sagrada Familia is just one of seven of his works that have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Many cities are known for their architecture. Barcelona is unusual because one architect's vision became inseparable from the city's identity. Gaudí buildings are often the first images travelers associate with Barcelona.

The Essential Gaudí Sites

For first-time visitors to Barcelona, four landmarks form the core of any Gaudí itinerary:

Sagrada Família — Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece and Barcelona's most visited attraction.
Park Güell — A whimsical landscape of colorful mosaics, organic forms, and panoramic city views.
Casa Batlló — The architect's fantasy-like reinterpretation of an urban townhouse.
Casa Milà (La Pedrera) — Famous for its flowing stone façade and sculptural rooftop chimneys.

Together, they showcase the architect's mature style and his extraordinary ability to blur the boundaries between architecture, art, fantasy and nature.

Why Gaudí Still Matters

The anniversary gives us the opportunity to celebrate Gaudí's greatest achievement - the extraordinary, unparalleled Sagrada Familia - AND that his legacy was not that single building. Many destinations have famous architects and landmark structures.

Gaudí created a visual language so distinctive and even other-worldly that it became the visual and cultural identity of an entire city.

Just one hundred years after his death, a 2000-year-old city can’t be imagined without the vision and cultural signature Gaudí imprinted on this Mediterranean coastal city.

START YOUR TRIP!

Top images from video courtesy of Sagrada Familia

Bottom Image and story: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert

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Mon, 15 Jun 26 17:33:20 +0000

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Mon, 15 Jun 26 17:28:24 +0000

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Mon, 15 Jun 26 17:25:04 +0000

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