Onboard Royal Caribbean’s new Star of the Seas, guests can explore over 20 bars and lounges, offering a wide range of cocktails and mocktails in vibrant settings. Some are along the Royal Promenade, while others are poolside or located within high-energy music, comedy, and dance clubs. I spoke with Ed Eiswirth, Senior Director …

The voyage began in Reykjavík, Iceland, where guests boarded Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Voyager. The crew assisted with embarkation, provided an orientation, and welcomed travelers onboard. At sea, the schedule included enrichment talks on Arctic geography, wildlife, and history, as well as time for deck observation. Meals offered a variety of options, including …

When you’re heading off on a cruise or coastal getaway, packing versatile pieces is key. With limited suitcase space—and often tight storage in your stateroom (we know, you want to bring your entire house)—your wardrobe needs to work for everything from beach lounging and port exploring to formal dinners and date nights. These …

From the moment I stepped onto the gangplank, I could feel it: This wasn’t just a port facility — it was a portal into Istanbul’s story. With the Bosphorus shimmering at my side and the Galata Tower rising over the historic neighborhood of Karaköy just steps away, I felt as though I was …

No wonder Oceania Allura surpassed expectations on her maiden voyage through Adriatic and Mediterranean ports. Sure, when Oceania Cruises’ newest vessel, twin to the luxurious 1,200-passenger Vista, launched in May 2023, the ship amused guests with rich amenities, from her beautiful pool deck to the secluded spa terrace with thalassotherapy waters to the …

Despite its name, the Panama hat originated in Ecuador. In the 19th century, Ecuadorian hat makers shipped their products to Panama to access larger trade markets. The style gained worldwide fame after President Roosevelt was photographed wearing one during a visit to Panama. Today, this emblem of Ecuadorian craftsmanship is recognized on UNESCO’s …

Tucked along Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast, this city is not as instantly famous as Dubrovnik or Split — and that’s exactly why it feels like discovering a secret. Zadar blends ancient history with modern creativity on a coastline so gorgeous it feels like the impossibly blue sea has been painted there. From the …

We drove through rural villages sprinkled along the  mountainous roads and arrived in the sleepy fishing village of Boca Chica. A short tender ride delivered us to our base of operations: Kontiki Wayra. 

I’d cruised the rivers of Europe before, but something about the 7-day itinerary of CroisiEurope’s Douce France jumped out at me. It was a round-trip sailing out of Vienna, one of my favorite cities in all of Europe. This would be our third trip with the company in just 6 months, yet boarding …

Just wrapped up my third sailing on Explora I since her debut—and somehow, each journey manages to outdo the last. This time, we explored the Mediterranean, departing from Piraeus, Greece, and visiting some of the region’s most breathtaking, culturally rich ports. The scenery was spectacular, of course—but once again, it was the onboard …