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Experience Unmatched Luxury: Your Mediterranean Escape by the Water

Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas: Where Mediterranean Dreams Meet Seaside Luxury

Imagine waking up in a sumptuous villa or suite at the water’s edge, with the rhythmic sound of waves as your morning melody.

Welcome to Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas, a beacon of Greek hospitality nestled along Crete’s northeastern coastline.

Spanning 40 acres, this retreat seamlessly blends classic elegance with modern minimalism, offering waterfront suites, bungalows, and villas—many with private heated pools and breathtaking surroundings.

Embrace the Essence of Mediterranean Luxury

For discerning travelers, Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas is more than a destination—it’s a sanctuary of refinement and indulgence.

Our tailored services create an atmosphere of absolute comfort, allowing you to immerse yourself in the timeless grandeur of the Mediterranean. Whether you desire serenity, adventure, or cultural enrichment, our seafront paradise promises a bespoke experience:

Two private sandy beaches – a tranquil escape with crystal-clear waters and golden sands.
Gastronomic journeys – indulge in diverse dining experiences, from traditional Cretan cooking lessons to an exploration of authentic island flavors.
The Penthouse Spa – a sanctuary of wellness and rejuvenation with breathtaking views of the azure sea.
State-of-the-art fitness center – maintain your wellness routine with world-class equipment and expert trainers.
Greek-themed music nights – immerse yourself in Greece's rich culture and traditions with live performances.
Luxury shopping arcade – browse an exclusive collection of high-end designer brands within the resort.
Outdoor pool & poolside bar – unwind with refreshing cocktails and light Mediterranean snacks in a serene setting.
Exciting land & water sports – enjoy different activities, including mini soccer, tennis, and basketball.
Dedicated diving center – discover the wonders of the deep blue with expert-guided underwater adventures.

At Elounda Beach, every moment is designed to elevate your experience and create memories that last a lifetime.

A Sanctuary of Elegance and Comfort

Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas offers a range of premium accommodations meticulously crafted for the highest levels of comfort.

Choose from seafront villas, suites, and bungalows designed for luxury and relaxation. With panoramic views of the idyllic sea, every residence invites you to be captivated by nature’s serene beauty and experience a unique lifestyle by the sea.

Personalized Service & Authentic Greek Hospitality

At Elounda Beach, hospitality is a way of life. Our exceptional personalized services ensure exclusivity and comfort at every turn. From seamless check-ins to tailor-made experiences, we take care of every detail, allowing you to relax and indulge in the very best of authentic Greek hospitality.

Indulge in Culinary Excellence

Savor world-class cuisine at Elounda Beach’s exquisite restaurants, where master chefs blend local flavors with international influences. Whether enjoying a leisurely seaside breakfast or a gourmet dinner under the stars, every meal is a memorable taste odyssey.

Indulge in award-winning fine dining, fresh seafood delights, or traditional dishes served beneath ancient olive trees. From Mediterranean flavors to innovative gastronomy, each restaurant at Elounda Beach offers a truly extraordinary dining experience.

Discover Local Traditions, Ancient History & Mythical Greece

Let our concierge team curate a unique tour through Crete’s historical and cultural wonders. Explore:

The Palace of Knossos and the Minoan treasures at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Mochlos – a traditional fishing village rich in history.
Kritsa – a picturesque mountain village with winding lanes and timeless charm.
Archanes – a treasure trove of archaeological sites, cultural heritage, and exquisite local cuisine.

Explore Spinalonga Island, the ancient ruins of Gournia, and the Byzantine Church of Panagia Kera. Stand amidst Toplou Monastery’s 14th-century murals and journey to Lassithi Plateau, the legendary birthplace of the gods.

Venture into the Dikteon Cave, where Rhea hid Zeus from Cronos, and step into a world where myth meets reality. Crete’s rich past is ever-present, waiting for you to explore its unique and history-laden places.

Thrilling Adventures at the Water Sports Club

For adventurous guests, our fully equipped water sports club offers thrilling activities. From jet-skiing across crystal-clear waters to paddleboarding at sunrise or exploring the depths of the Mediterranean through scuba diving, there’s something for every thrill-seeker.

Sail Away on an Aquatic Cretan Adventure

Set sail on a private boat across the Cretan Sea, guided by the warm summer sun. Explore stunning coastal destinations like Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island, or enjoy an idyllic sunset cruise. Experience traditional fishing techniques and relish authentic Greek cuisine, local wines, and the famous local aniseed aperitif raki aboard your journey.

A Family-Friendly Paradise on Crete’s Golden Shores

The Kids’ Club offers daily fun, from educational and fitness games to gardening and swimming lessons. Tranquil sandy beaches, an outdoor pool, a fully equipped playground, water sports, and tennis courts ensure every moment is filled with excitement and joy.

With carefully curated child-friendly menus, we create a wholesome experience where families can cherish precious moments together.

Unique Living by the Sea

This Mediterranean escape isn’t just a vacation—it’s a lifestyle. With unparalleled access to the sea, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service, you’ll discover the true meaning of unique living by the sea.

Experience a harmonious blend of holistic wellness and cutting-edge techniques at the Elounda Beach Penthouse Spa. Our expert team offers personalized treatments across medical, hydro-biontology, aesthetic, and wellness departments, ensuring an experience of ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

Plan Your Dream Getaway

Become engrossed in the perfect blend of elegance, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you seek a romantic escape, a family retreat, or a solo journey of self-discovery, Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas promises an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.

by Melina Fragapane on 05/12/2025

Celestyal Cruises: Unmissable Journeys Through Iconic Shores & Hidden Gems

Experience boutique cruising with mid-sized elegance, immersive cultural adventures, and port-rich itineraries across Greece, Turkey, the Adriatic, and the Arabian Gulf—where every voyage is personalized, flavorful, and unforgettable.

Celestyal offers an international boutique cruising experience blending the elegance of our refreshed mid-sized ships with iconic destinations such as Santorini & Mykonos with last night departures, hidden gems such as Milos & Patmos with an immersive cultural adventure offering premium amenities, personalized service, and locally inspired cuisine, where every journey is Unmissable.

Celestyal's port-intensive itineraries allow guests to fully explore the culture, history, and beauty of each destination, creating a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our new Itineraries explore the countries of Croatia, Montenegro, Italy in addition to Greece & Turkey and this winter come along to the Arabian Gulf homeporting out of Abu Dhabi, UAE & Doha, Qatar.

Celestyal offers 3/4/7/14 Day cruises on the Celestyal Discovery and 7/14 Day cruises on the Celestyal Journey complete with Specialty Restaurants, Signature Coffee Café, a different themed nighttime Review Show in the theater, live entertainment in the multiple Lounges, Casino’s, Shopping District, and several different levels of shore excursions including National Geographic and Authentic Encounters. You just have to be there…Come aboard and have an Unmissable experience!

by Melina Fragapane on 05/12/2025

Next-Level Luxury at Sea: Introducing Celebrity Xcel

Prepare To Experience The Next Level Of Elevated Vacation Excellence: Celebrity Cruises Reveals Name Of Next Edge Series Ship

The fifth vessel in the brand’s award-winning Edge Series, Celebrity Xcel, will be in a class of her own when she launches Winter 2025

- The countdown is on, and the future of elevated travel at sea is officially on its way. Celebrity Cruises announced that the fifth ship in its award-winning Edge Series will be named Celebrity Xcel, continuing the innovative experiences coveted in her sister ships and then going even further for an unmatched premium vacation experience. The reveal was made at Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, as executives from both Royal Caribbean Group, the world’s leading family of cruise vacation brands that includes Celebrity Cruises, and the shipyard cut the first piece of steel for the new ship. “The Edge Series has shattered preconceived notions of cruising, and we are thrilled to announce our next bold step as a brand with Celebrity Xcel,” said Celebrity Cruises’ President Laura Hodges Bethge. “True to her name, this next ship will ‘Xcel’ beyond her sister ships with entirely new experiences, yet to be revealed, but that will change the game all over again.” Celebrity Xcel will make her debut in November 2025 in the Caribbean, sailing her inaugural winter season from Fort Lauderdale, on 7-night itineraries alternating between the Bahamas, Mexico and the Cayman Islands, and Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten. The sailings are now open for sale. Like her highly anticipated sister ship Celebrity Ascent, debuting later this month, Celebrity Xcel will connect guests to the breath-taking world around them like never before. The onboard experiences on these ships stand them apart as a class of ships without comparison with such distinctive features and spaces as:

The Retreat®, an exclusive resort-within-a-resort area for suite guests, highlighted by a two-story sundeck;
Accommodations for today’s modern tastes from modern two-story villas with private plunge pools to staterooms with infinite verandas, blurring theboundaries between indoor and outdoor living;
An expanded Rooftop Garden and stunning Resort Deck featuring unique cantilevered float pools;
A multi-level, multi-terraced Sunset Bar redefining the ship’s aft;
A Daniel Boulud fine-dining restaurant at sea;
Live entertainment and activities creating the best date nights and days at sea;
A boldly redesigned Grand Plaza spanning three decks, creating an airy and open indoor space;
The Bazaar. Step into the epicenter of excitement and get swept away by culture, traditions, and festivals of the places you’ll visit. Discover a celebration of all things local that’s never the same experience twice.
Market at the Bazaar. You don’t have to search far and wide for one-of-kind finds. We’ve assembled the best local must-haves right here. Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors and creations of a market that’s always on the move, and even learn a few skills the artisans themselves.

The Flavors. From culture, flavors, sights, and sounds of the destinations you’ll visit.

To the local festivals they’re famous for, Celebrity gives you more to explore than ever before.

by Melina Fragapane on 05/12/2025

Island Elegance: Discover Tahiti and Beyond with Pleasant Holidays

Tahiti’s Treasures: Hidden in Plain Sight

The islands of the South Pacific are filled with opportunities to settle in with the serene and tranquil surroundings. French Polynesia has a leisurely pace that affords plenty of space for reflection and thought. Time on the islands morphs into a rare space revolving around food, drink, culture and revelry. Guests seem to find new appreciation for the speed of life on the islands after visiting.

Now you can secure a complete vacation package and SAVE $200 when you book vacations of 5 nights or longer by 07/13/2025 for travel through 02/15/2026 and include roundtrip air through Pleasant Holidays. Ask your Travel Advisor for details.

Each of the Islands of French Polynesia has its own signature style. Tahiti is the largest island of the Society Islands archipelago. The island was formed by two volcanoes – the older, larger Tahiti-Nui in the northwest and Tahiti-Iti in the southeast - which are connected by a narrow stretch of land. The island has a figure-eight shape with a mountainous geography and is surrounded by clear waters.

Tahiti is the economic, cultural and political center of French Polynesia. The island has a beautiful waterfront where yachts, ferries and cargo boats come and go, and a thriving market full of South Pacific atmosphere. Those who fly commercially typically begin their journey in Tahiti by landing in Papeete.

Moorea is close to Tahiti and offers its coral reefs as a distinguishing characteristic popular with tourists. While snorkeling or diving, you can see the beautiful and vibrant colors of the reef fish in their natural habitat. Moorea’s topography includes Mount Rotui which lies between two enormous inlets, Cook’s Bay and Opunohu Bay.

Tetiaroa is the private island that was home to actor Marlon Brando. The island is now home to The Brando, the resort that carries his namesake, which celebrates and preserves Tetiaroa's pristine beauty, offering the ultimate sustainable luxury for discerning travelers.

Huahine is a natural wonderland steeped in authentic Tahitian tradition. It is home to copious marine life and is surrounded by coral. Culturally preserved and surrounded by lush vegetation, Huahine has an assortment of hidden temples scattered throughout the island.

Raiatea is the second-largest island in the Society Islands chain. It’s a popular destination for sailing and deep-sea fishing and shares a coral reef and lagoon with neighboring island Taha’a.

Taha’a is known for its spice production. It is commonly known as the Vanilla Island because of the many fragrant vanilla orchids. The island is mostly dense forest and shaped like a flower.

Bora Bora is the Society Islands’ honeymoon retreat. Bora Bora is also where the overwater bungalow style of residence originated. The lagoon on Bora Bora is pristine, a veritable paradise where snorkeling and diving are common pastimes. With a romantic atmosphere popular with couples and newlyweds, the beaches of Bora Bora offer year-round opportunities for watersports and a relaxing scene for lounging in the tropical sun.

Rangiroa is the largest atoll in the Tuamotu islands, a chain known for its lagoons as well as its atolls. Tikehau Atoll is said to have the best fishing spots in the Tuamotu island chain.

The Marquesas are considered some of the most remote islands in the world. Nuku Hiva, the largest of the Marquesas Islands, is a mountainous bounty of forests and stunning beaches. With the Vaipo waterfall, one of the tallest in French Polynesia, and a volcano, Nuku Hiva is difficult to beat for adventure and sights.

Some guests prefer to spend their visit island hopping. With ample air and sea transfers available, that’s one way to see a lot of French Polynesia. Others prefer to catch some sun at the pool or wait for the tides to recede so they can hunt for interesting seashells and seaglass. Sticking close to one particular island destination is another choice if you’re into making the most out of resort living. Still others prefer to see the islands via a cruise ship to check off many ports on their journey. Several cruise lines with diverse and wide-ranging itineraries can be booked through Pleasant Holidays’ dedicated Cruise Desk.

by Melina Fragapane on 05/12/2025

Trafalgar Expands From Land Touring into River Cruising

Beginning in 2026, fans of Trafalgar tours have another way to enjoy the expert guidance, meaningful local experiences, cultural immersion and ease of travel they’ve come to expect from their Trafalgar trips. In fact, with the company’s new river cruise ships, you’ll now be able to unpack once for your entire journey as your floating hotel transports you to one Trafalgar experience after another.

The company, which is part of The Travel Corporation (TTC) family of travel brands, is launching 2 river cruise ships that set sail in the Spring of 2026. Each will sail a different river, the two most popular rivers to cruise in Europe: the Rhine and the Danube.

The two ships come from within the ‘family.’ One of TTC’s brands is Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, and two of Uniworld’s river ships are now sailing as Trafalgar Reverie and Trafalgar Verity. Each is home to 128 guests.

Trafalgar Style River Cruising

While both Trafalgar and Uniworld are part of The Travel Corporation, they offer distinct experiences. Uniworld is reminiscent of a boutique hotel, offering an ultra-luxury, all-inclusive experience for travelers seeking the highest level of elegance and personalized service.

When you river cruise on Trafalgar, you’ll experience guided cultural journeys with Trafalgar’s signature warmth, local connection, and ease, offering a flexible and accessible way to explore Europe’s rivers.

Each Trafalgar sailing includes

Guided shore excursions with Local Specialists;
signature Trafalgar moments, including opportunities to connect with locals through “Be My Guest” encounters;
at least one “Make Travel Matter” Experience that supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals;
WiFi;
most meals, including delicious regional dining;
Tea time during afternoon sailings;
wine and beer with lunch and dinner (or a cash bar for other cocktails), soft drinks, coffee and tea, plus
onboard entertainment - from regional performances to in-house baking demonstrations;
wellness options from yoga sessions to complimentary bicycles for off-shore excursions, and
The care of an expert Trafalgar Experience Director and Hotel Manager;

giving travelers the support they want without paying for extras they may not use.

Inaugural Trafalgar River Itineraries

Trafalgar begins with two new journeys, an 8-day cruise along the Danube on the Trafalgar Reverie and a 10-day cruise along the Rhine on the Trafalgar Verity.

Best of the Danube: 8-Day Cruise Aboard Trafalgar Reverie

Explore Europe’s rich history and vibrant cultures from Budapest to Passau aboard the 128-passenger Trafalgar Reverie. With a setting as elegant and inviting as its planned journey, the Trafalgar Reverie is fabulously designed with multiple lounges for gathering, a massage room, a fitness center, and seven cabin categories. Highlights include Budapest’s storied landmarks, Bratislava’s medieval charm, and Vienna’s famous café culture. Guests are invited to ‘Be My Guest’ at an exclusive dining experience at Austria’s oldest winery, Weingut Nikolaihof, hosted by the Saahs family, and discover Bratislava’s Cold War history during ‘Life Beyond the Iron Curtain,’ an extraordinary “Make Travel Matter” Experience. Optional extensions in Prague and Budapest allow further discovery.

Best of the Rhine and Amsterdam: 10-Day Cruise Aboard Trafalgar Verity

Travellers aboard the 128-passenger Trafalgar Verity, with its charming 1930s vibe, rich blue and white fabrics, marble-accented bathrooms and boutique hotel elegance, will journey from Basel to Amsterdam, encountering landmarks such as the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral, the romantic Middle Rhine Gorge, and Strasbourg’s charming old town. On this journey, the ‘Be My Guest’ experience visits the Bohrers for lunch at their family-run farm, where for generations they’ve cultivated fresh produce, and guests will learn about artisanal vinegar production during a “Make Travel Matter” Experience at Weinessiggut Doktorenhof. Like its sister ship, Trafalgar Verity offers seven cabin categories and an optional extension in Lucerne.

START YOUR RIVER CRUISE TRIP!

Images courtesy of Trafalgar.

by Lynn on 05/08/2025

Disney Announces New Theme Park

Disney fans collecting theme park visits will soon have a new and spectacular destination to compare cherished characters, memorable experiences and new thrills. The Walt Disney company has announced plans for its 7th park. The uniquely waterfront resort will be located on an island in futuristic Abu Dhabi.

The Yas Island Disney park will combine Disney’s iconic stories, characters and attractions with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culture, stunning shorelines, and breathtaking architecture.

Yas Island

Located on the shores of Abu Dhabi – just 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 50 minutes from Dubai, the 10.5 square mile Yas Island already offers vacationing families an extraordinary range of experiences. They include award-winning theme parks such as Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros. World, as well as attractions such as Yas Marina Circuit, home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Yas Island boasts Abu Dhabi’s largest mall, plus Yas Marina, Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Links golf course, the Middle East’s largest indoor entertainment venue, Etihad Arena, with a year-round line-up of spectacular musical, entertainment and family events. Visitors can choose among ten incredible hotels, including a W Hotel and The WB Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Warner Bros. themed hotel, not to mention 165 dining experiences.

The UAE is home to the largest global airline hub in the world, and is located within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population, connecting travelers from the Middle East and Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and beyond. 120 million passengers travel through Abu Dhabi and Dubai each year.

Disney, Abu Dhabi-style

The new Disney theme park will be at the center of one of the world’s most popular and fastest-growing travel destinations. And it will reflect classic Disney fantasy with Middle Eastern influences and the UAE’s signature spectacular scale and passion for landmark, innovative architecture and design.

Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, says the new Disney “will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting-edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati – an oasis of extraordinary Disney entertainment at this crossroads of the world.”

Although no opening date has been given, upon completion, the new theme park resort will offer signature Disney entertainment, themed accommodations, unique dining and retail experiences, and storytelling in a way that celebrates both the heritage of Disney and the futuristic and cultural essence of Abu Dhabi.

The new resort will be built and operated by the company that developed many of Yas Island’s existing family attractions. Disney and its legendary Imagineers will lead creative design and operational oversight to provide a full Disney experience.

The 7th Disney park and the first in the Middle East joins 6 other Disney resorts – can you name them all? Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California; Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida; Tokyo Disneyland Resort; Disneyland Paris; Hong Kong Disneyland Resort; and Shanghai Disney Resort.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images / renderings courtesy of Disney

by Lynn on 05/08/2025

When is the Jamaican Rum You're Drinking Not Jamaican?

It’s only champagne if it’s from Champagne. Ham from Parma is equally exclusive. And now, some rum producers in Jamaica are causing quite a ‘stir’– working to tighten rules that identify varieties of the Caribbean’s most famous spirit by ‘appellation’ or geographic origin.

Champagne, Parma ham, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and many other foods, wine and spirits work to get these designations to protect the authenticity, heritage and production methods of a uniquely-produced regional food or drink. The appellation or GI (Geographical Indication) label verifies to buyers that the product has guaranteed qualities, characteristics and even reputation inherent to that specified region, even if made by different producers within the destination.

For travelers, tasting and buying products with an appellation ensures you’ve got your hands on the real thing, the authentic flavor of the destination. GI labels also protect local economies investing in heritage traditions from inferior imitators inside or outside the region.

In addition, strong GI’s become an anchor tourist experience in a region, enhancing travel opportunities.

Rum’s the word

The ‘rum’ble in the rum industry in Jamaica could affect what mojito, daiquiri, or souvenir bottle of rum you choose on your next trip to the Caribbean island.

On one side, six rum companies who want tighter rules about what can be permitted to be labeled “Jamaican rum.” The country’s Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) has already approved changes that now require any spirit called “Jamaican rum” to be aged within the country.

But the tighter rules are being challenged by opposing producers who do part of the rum-making process in Jamaica, while sending it off the island for ageing. In fact, one of the biggest producers says the new rules would put it out of business.

The increased restrictions are not unprecedented in the world of global GI. In fact, on-location ageing of GI spirits is pretty standard.

Scotch whisky must be produced entirely in Scotland, including maturing for at least three years. Tequila must be aged in Mexico. Cognac must be aged in France.

An opinion piece in the Jamaican Gleaner by Clement Lawrence, the chairman of the association of rum producers, in favor of tightened rules, asserts:

“In the context of rum, terroir refers to how Jamaica’s specific environment, its tropical climate, humidity, soil conditions, and traditional methods affect the fermentation, distillation, and, especially, the ageing of the rum. This is why rum aged in Jamaica develops a different flavour profile than the same rum aged in, say, Europe or North America.”

He adds, “In tropical climates like Jamaica, ageing occurs at 2–3 times the rate of temperate regions. The interaction between spirit, wood, humidity, and temperature uniquely shapes the rum’s chemical composition, its colour, body, and aroma. Ageing in Jamaica is not incidental, it is defining.”

The six companies in favor of the on-island ageing rule point out that a stronger GI is needed to meet standards in the spirit’s two biggest international markets: the US and the EU. It would protect Jamaican rum against imitators and also add to its reputation as a premium spirit made to the highest, exacting standards. Plus justify higher prices required to maintain those standards.

Lawrence concludes – as would many a tippling traveler – that Jamaican rum is “a world-class product, deserving of the same protections and reverence as its global peers,” like Cognac, tequila, champagne and other strictly-regulated GI beverages we travel to enjoy in their places of origin.

START YOUR TRIP!

Image: Getty: Appleton Estate Jamaican Rum Factory store and bar inside the Falmouth Cruise Ship Port, Jamaica.

Editorial note: Appleton is one of the producers in favor of tighter, on-island ageing rules.

by Lynn on 05/08/2025

RIU Resort-Supported Eco Project Reports Triumph for Turtles

Over 150,000 hatchlings of endangered loggerhead sea turtles were released during the latest nesting season from hatcheries in the Atlantic archipelago of Cape Verde, including one in front of RIU’s hotels. What’s more, local eco organizations also reported successes in helping mitigate the negative effects of climate change on the critical turtle population.

The country of Cape Verde (also called Cabo Verde) is made up of 10 volcanic islands in the central Atlantic Ocean, about 500 miles west of the coast of Africa. A maritime hub in seafaring days, the country is now a growing holiday destination. Culturally, it’s a melting pot of African, Brazilian and Portuguese cultural influences. The islands of Cape Verde enjoy year-round sunshine, consistently pleasantly warm weather, volcanic mountains and lush valleys, not to mention crystal clear waters and stunning beaches on islands like Sal and Boa Vista.

The waters surrounding Cape Verde are rich in marine life, and visitors can go whale watching and encounter various other creatures of the sea. Notably, it has important nesting sites for loggerhead sea turtles, particularly on Boa Vista. From July to October, visitors can witness turtles laying eggs on the beaches. (Always do so responsibly with guidance from park authorities and environmental groups!)

RIU Hotels and Resorts operates six of its nearly 100 properties in Cape Verde. Through its sustainability initiative, the company supports two local conservation organizations involved in helping ensure the success of loggerhead sea turtle nesting to maintain and restore the threatened population of this majestic species.

Projeto Biodiversidade and BIOS Cabo Verde have set up hatcheries on the islands of Sal and Boa Vista, which help make Cape Verde home to one of the world’s most important nesting populations of loggerhead sea turtles.

Turtle hatching by the numbers

In the latest season, almost 115,000 births were recorded on the island of Sal, while there were more than 34,500 on Boa Vista.

Boa Vista hosted 60% of Cape Verde’s turtle population last season, with 22,427 nests in the Tartarugas Natural Reserve alone. Six hundred of these nests were protected in hatcheries with a hatch rate of nearly 80%, which led to 34,592 hatchlings being released into the sea.

What’s more, 7,576 turtles were monitored, and 169 were rescued.

Projeto Biodiversidade recorded 36,587 nests on the island of Sal. A total of 2,225 were protected in hatcheries, one of which is located in front of RIU’s hotels. The hatch rate reached over 82%, and 115,962 hatchlings were released into the sea.

A 17-mile stretch of coastline was patrolled, and 1,645 turtles were monitored.

Mitigating the effects of climate change

On Sal, the hatcheries were shaded to help reduce the egg incubation temperature. Just a couple of degrees makes a difference in increasing the proportion of male turtles, a key measure to counteract the effects of climate change.

BIOS Cape Verde also continued experiments on nests to mitigate the effects of global warming and obtained promising results in terms of hatchling sex ratios.

Reducing poaching

The organizations also report good news that there has been a significant reduction in poaching over the last few years, falling from 440 cases in 2021 to just 110 in 2024 on the island of Sal. The nurseries are monitored by volunteers from both organizations, supported by RIU, which provides food at the beach surveillance team’s camps.

RIU support for wildlife in other countries

RIU is involved in programs to protect a variety of animal species and their habitats in Mexico, Jamaica, Mauritius and Aruba, where it supports projects that work to preserve jaguars, green macaws, whale sharks and cottontail rabbits, among other species that enrich our travels and our wonder of the world we live in.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images courtesy of RIU Hotels & Resorts and their partner organizations.

by Lynn on 05/08/2025

Top 6 Reasons To Make a Carnival Cruise Your Summer Vacation

Why Carnival Is the Ultimate Summer Vacation Choice

Sunshine, ocean breezes, endless entertainment—summer vacations don’t get better than this! Carnival Cruises are all about fun, relaxation, and creating unforgettable memories at sea. If you’re dreaming of the perfect summer escape, here’s why cruising with Carnival is the way to go:

1. Wake Up Somewhere New Everyday

With Carnival, adventure is always on the horizon. Set sail to tropical hotspots like the Bahamas, Cozumel, and exclusive destinations like Celebration Key—or explore the breathtaking beauty of Alaska. Each day brings a brand-new destination, and you get to enjoy it all without ever repacking your suitcase.

2. The Ship Is The Destination

Splash down waterslides at WaterWorks, catch a Broadway-style show, or unwind with a cocktail under the stars. There’s something for everyone—kids’ clubs, adult-only retreats, deck parties, comedy clubs, and more.

3. World-class Restaurants At Sea

Get ready to eat your way through vacation. From sizzling steaks to exquisite seafood and unique, only-on-Carnival decadent creations, you'll find an array of delicious options worth experiencing. When you hear people say "the food's amazing on Carnival!", these are just a few of the dishes they're raving about.

4. Stress-free Vacation, From a Homeport Near You

Vacations are for escaping the pressures of everyday life. On a ship, you’ll be able to sail through the planning, explore multiple destinations, and only have to unpack once! On a Carnival cruise, you can enjoy everything from casual eats to fine dining, spa trips, stage shows, and comedy clubs. Most everything’s included—from meals and shows to pools and activities—so you can just relax and enjoy.

5. Excursions Made Easy

Whether it’s snorkeling in turquoise waters, zip-lining through lush forests, or relaxing on a private beach, Carnival’s curated shore excursions make every stop an adventure. These experiences are designed for all kinds of travelers—laid-back loungers and thrill-seekers alike.

6. Moments You’ll Never Forget

It’s more than a vacation—it’s a chance to connect, celebrate, and make lasting memories. Dance under the stars, watch a movie on the deck, try something new, and just soak up every moment. That’s the magic of Carnival.
With vibrant destinations, endless onboard entertainment, and unbeatable value, your best vacation yet is just a Carnival cruise away. Ready to sail? Call your travel advisor to start planning and booking.

by Melina Fragapane on 05/06/2025

Uncover Mexico’s West Coast with Royal Caribbean® This Summer

Baja Like No Other: Set Sail from California

Max out the memories this summer aboard Royal Caribbean® — the cruise line voted Best Overall 21 years running by Travel Weekly readers. Choose from three gamechanging ships — Navigator of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, and Quantum of the Seas — all departing from Los Angeles.

Whether it’s a short escape to Ensenada and Catalina or a longer wander to Cabo San Lucas with overnight stays, there’s no better way to cruise the Baja coast. Expect heart-racing thrills, beachside bliss, authentic Baja flavors, and vibrant culture — all from your floating resort.

Featured Ports & Experiences

CABO SAN LUCAS

Sail there on: Navigator of the Seas • Ovation of the Seas • Quantum of the Seas
From soaring rock formations to seafood feasts and catamaran cruises, Cabo is a coastal gem. Take your time with overnight stays — dine under the stars, sip cocktails by the marina, or snorkel turquoise waters by day.

ENSENADA

Sail there on: Navigator of the Seas • Ovation of the Seas • Quantum of the Seas
Hike the canyon of El Salto, watch whales glide by the coast, or sample fresh fish tacos by the beach. Ensenada blends adventure with culinary charm.

CATALINA ISLAND

Sail there on: Navigator of the Seas
Just offshore from California, Catalina is the perfect quick escape. Zipline across cliffs, explore semi-submarine expeditions, or unwind with a shopping stroll in Avalon’s sunlit town.

Choose Your Adventure

SHORT STINTS FROM CALIFORNIA

Quick weekend? No problem. Cruise to Ensenada or Catalina without needing PTO. The biggest ships on the West Coast turn even a short break into a full-on escape.

WANDER FOR LONGER

Spend seven nights exploring the Mexican Riviera. Zipline, snorkel, eat local, and kick back in beach towns that offer something for everyone.

CABO OVERNIGHT ODYSSEYS

Some select sailings stay overnight in Cabo San Lucas — giving you double the time to explore, relax, and experience the nightlife and natural wonders of this iconic destination.

by Melina Fragapane on 05/06/2025