​I wish you all a very Happy New Year!

As the sun sets on another year, may it rise again and shine a light on new opportunities, perspectives, and adventures ahead!

Welcome, 2023!

Happy Christmas Eve, I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas.

May this Christmas bring you many reasons to smile. Share this wonderful time of year with those near and dear to your heart.
​

It’s the most magical time of year: a time of family, food, gifting, and embracing traditions. However you spend the holidays, we can always look to Europe to provide festive cheer and inspiration. Let’s take a look at how the French city of Strasbourg, widely considered the “Capital of Christmas”, celebrates the season of goodwill. 

Strasbourg, France: Capital of Christmas 

Strasbourg is the capital city of France’s Alsace region, in northeastern France. Being close to the German border, the culture and architecture of the city show inspiration from both European countries, with late November erupting into a display of the traditional German-originated festivities.

The Strasbourg yuletide market is both the oldest in France and one of the oldest overall in the European continent. Dating back to 1570, the market stays true to the custom of Christmas markets with storefronts and building facades being beautifully decorated with lights and decoration.  

Every year, a 30-meter tall fir tree occupies the heart of Place Kléber, strewn with hundreds of cherubs and 400 baubles. The tree is illuminated daily from 17:00 pm. Around 300 wooden chalets are dotted around the plaza and elsewhere, where you can pick up artisanal gifts, hand-crafted decorations, and time-honored treats. 

Have you ever thought about booking a trip to the Cook Islands? If not, you might want to consider adding it to your bucket list. This destination is a Polynesian paradise, with adventurous activities, opportunities to relax, and everything in between. 

The Cook Islands are comprised of 15 islands, some of which have daily flights between islands. Situated in the middle of Hawaii and New Zealand, these islands boast an ideal climate, with an average yearly temperature of 80-82˚F. Keep reading to learn about some of the top things to do in the Cook Islands!

Rarotonga

Although it is one of the larger islands, you can drive across Rarotonga in just 45 minutes. Despite being the most popular, Rarotonga maintains an escape from city life, with no building higher than the tallest coconut tree and no traffic lights in sight.

On Rarotonga, there are more than 100 Polynesian restaurants, cafes, and dining options to enjoy, as well as endless opportunities for adventure. Rarotonga is known for its beautiful mountainous landscapes, scuba-friendly waters, and cultural experiences. Cultural shows and traditional dances can immerse you in the Cook Islands. 

Enjoy the water

When it comes to water, the Cook Islands have it all. Their lagoons provide the perfect place to experience some of the most extraordinary things. Year-round warm water makes the islands ideal for exploring sea life, whether by paddleboard or sea scooter. Snorkeling through fish-filled waters or diving to ocean floors can help you create unforgettable memories. 

​If you would rather be on top of the water in a boat, there are options for you too! Lagoon cruises, full of food and entertainment, are a great way to start the day with some happiness. A popular island for lagoon cruises is Aitutaki, especially if you are staying on another island.

Ultra immersive and ultra adventurous, expedition cruising is a vacation style that takes you to the most remote oceans, seas, and tundras. Specifically, these liveaboard tours journey to the polar north and south – the final frontiers in travel. As these regions require a specialist approach, you will be accompanied by expedition leaders with extensive knowledge of polar natural history and the culture of those living in these areas.

The vessels used in expedition cruising are significantly smaller, amounting to only a couple of hundred guests rather than the several thousand traditional cruise liners accommodate. Ships fall into a far more luxurious category, as reflected in the guest cabins, amenities, and onboard dining. Consider expedition cruises the aquatic equivalent of a boutique hotel – with adventure to boot. There is no need to worry about feeling the cold; all expedition vessels are climate-controlled for your comfort while specialist clothing is provided. 

Expedition cruises take you where the large cruise liners can’t; here is where you can expect to journey on an expedition cruise.