Celebrity Cruises

Food

Aside from the sophisticated ambience of its restaurants, the cuisine has always been a highlight of a Celebrity cruise. However, in early 2007, Celebrity and longtime chef Michael Roux ended their affiliation. His hands-on involvement—personally creating menus and overseeing all aspects of dining operations—was integral in helping the line achieve the reputation it enjoys today. Happily, every ship…

Carnival Cruise Lines

Overview

The world’s largest cruise line originated the Fun Ship concept in 1972 with the relaunch of an aging ocean liner, which got stuck on a sandbar during its maiden voyage. In true entrepreneurial spirit, founder Ted Arison shrugged off an inauspicious beginning to introduce superliners a decade later. Sporting red-white-and-blue flared funnels, which are easily recognized from afar,…

Azamara Club Cruises

Overview

In something of a surprise move, parent company Royal Caribbean International announced the formation of an all-new, deluxe cruise line in 2007. Two vessels originally slated for service in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, which were built for now-defunct Renaissance Cruises and acquired with the purchase of the Spanish cruise line Pullmantur, were the basis for the new…

Great Scenic Train Rides in Europe

Austria

“I just thought of a couple of mountain railways in Tyrol in western Austria – Jenbach up to Pertisau on the Achensee and Jenbach up the Zillertal to Mayrhofen. These sometimes have steam locos.”

France

“Personally I think most any ride in France is scenic in what I consider Europe’s most scenic country as a whole outside of…

8 Tips for Visiting Zanzibar: Africa’s Spice Island

If you’re keen on tacking on some R&R after your oh-so-stressful Safari, consider Zanzibar. The “zan” in Tanzania is just an hour-and-a-half ferry ride from the mainland in the Indian Ocean. It’s the perfect tropical spot to kick back and relax. Here are a few tips to help you plan your trip.

1. Remember your visa. Visitors from the United…

Best New Hotel Amenities

In-room wi-fi, minibar champagne splits, high-end toiletries, chocolates on the pillow . . . boring. In a world where guests have grown to expect a high level of amenity as standard, hotels are looking for ever more distinctive offerings. Here are some creative hotel amenities to look for, some gratis and others worth a splurge.

Sleep Aids:…

5 Dermatologist Tips for Sun-Safe Packing

Summer is almost upon us, which means that your travels are probably taking you someplace where you’ll be enjoying the great outdoors. And odds are you’ll be visiting an area that your skin is not used to, whether it’s a high altitude area, an arid (or humid) climate, or a seaside locale with plenty of water for reflecting…

Best Hotels In and Near Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a destination, not something to see as you pass through the area, and it covers a lot of ground; so if you plan on spending several days in the park, we suggest staying overnight in the park itself. If you don’t mind the driving, however, or want to spend time outside the park,…

How to Pack for Kids: 6 Simple Tips

Whether your family is heading out for a long flight or a quick road trip, reduce your pre-trip stress with our simple family travel packing tips. From making a list to creative carry-ons, you’ll help prevent adult and kid meltdowns away from home (it’s amazing how the smallest of stuffed animals can test everyone’s sanity).

1. Give everyone his…

Culinary Holidays in Provence: Top Cooking Schools

Ever wondered what it might be like to cook in Julia Child’s kitchen? Or look at fresh vegetables with a local’s eye? With a food history as richly varied as its produce, Provence is the ideal place to expand your culinary repertoire by signing up for some French cooking lessons. We’ve got what to expect plus the best…

Best Luxury Resorts and Private Islands

In recent years, accommodation in the Seychelles has expanded tremendously, with the majority of development on Mahé. From private island resorts to five-star global hotel brands, there are plenty of choices for luxury honeymoons and post-Safari relaxation. Although largely uninhabited, the handful of private islands—most with nothing on them other than a single resort—will blow your mind (and…