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Discover the Wonders of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the radiant jewel of the United Arab Emirates, is a destination where opulence takes center stage

This glamorous capital blends exclusive cultural experiences, world-class dining, and unrivaled leisure, welcoming discerning travelers to indulge in unparalleled luxury.

Art and Architecture
Marvel at the architectural splendor of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of white marble, adorned with shimmering chandeliers and exquisite floral inlays that captivate the senses. At Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace, step into majestic halls brimming with intricate artistry and a celebration of the UAE’s rich heritage. For art connoisseurs, the Louvre Abu Dhabi offers not only iconic masterpieces but also a stunning dome that bathes visitors in a mesmerizing “rain of light.”

Upscale Leisure & Exclusive Escapes
Abu Dhabi elevates entertainment to an art form. Yas Island invites thrill-seekers to experience Ferrari World’s record-breaking roller coaster and Yas Waterworld’s exhilarating water attractions. Beyond thrills, the pristine shores of Saadiyat Island offer a serene retreat with ultra-luxurious resorts, private beaches, and premier cultural institutions like the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

Exquisite Culinary Journeys
Culinary indulgence defines Abu Dhabi’s food scene. Relish in Michelin-starred dining at acclaimed establishments like Hakkasan, known for contemporary Cantonese perfection, or savor Japanese artistry at Zuma. For a taste of elegance fused with tradition, explore Emirati dishes like al harees and machboos, or enjoy personalized culinary experiences at exclusive desert dinners under the stars. Abu Dhabi’s food festivals also shine, with unique opportunities to engage with celebrity chefs and attend gourmet tastings.

Luxury Shopping Redefined
Shopping in Abu Dhabi is an elite experience. The Galleria Al Maryah Island curates high-fashion designer boutiques, fine jewelry, and waterfront gourmet dining for a polished outing. Marina Mall pairs high-end brands with premium entertainment options, including a panoramic viewing tower. Meanwhile, Souk
Central Market promises an elevated take on traditional shopping with its artisanal luxury goods and handcrafted treasures.

No matter your taste for adventure, Abu Dhabi is where endless sunshine meets vibrant culture, enriching experiences, and limitless fun!

by Melina Fragapane on 05/30/2025

10 Luxurious Experiences in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is more than its stunning beaches

It’s a destination of pure indulgence. Here are 10 ways to elevate your visit:

1. Explore Santo Domingo’s Glamorous Colonial Zone
Opt for a private tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site to uncover hidden gems, chic museums, fine dining, and boutique cafes that breathe life into old-world elegance.

2. Ascend Mount Isabel de Torres in Style
Take Puerto Plata’s scenic cable car to Mount Isabel’s summit for mountain and sea views and enjoy a bespoke picnic among tranquil surroundings.

3. Experience Altos de Chavón’s Timeless Sophistication
This Mediterranean-inspired village offers a romantic atmosphere with upscale restaurants and tailored shopping.

4. Tee Off on Prestigious Golf Courses
Golf in luxury on championship courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus. Feel ocean breezes as you play majestic seaside holes, embodying sporting elegance.

5. Discover the Serenity of Los Haitises National Park
Charter a private yacht through mangroves, or explore ancient caves adorned with petroglyphs. This untouched haven offers exclusivity for nature lovers.

6. Savor Water Adventures in Cabarete
Take private kiteboarding or windsurfing lessons, then unwind at chic beachfront lounges. Finish your day with gourmet beachfront dining under the stars.

7. Celebrate Dominican Culture in Refined Splendor
From private dance lessons to locally inspired tasting menus, immerse yourself in the Dominican spirit, styled for discerning travelers.

8. Retreat to Saona Island’s Paradise
With Champagne in hand and a custom gourmet lunch, bask in secluded beaches and turquoise waters, a sanctuary of ultimate tranquility.

9. Indulge in Dominican Rum and Cigars
Enjoy premium cigar and rum tastings led by local experts in intimate settings. Pair with chocolate truffles for an elevated experience.

10. Discover Glamorous Adventure at Scape Park
Families can enjoy VIP access to this Cap Cana attraction offering exclusive packages.

by Melina Fragapane on 05/30/2025

Upgrade Your Bucket List

Beyond First Class: 5 Luxury Travel Experiences That Redefine Indulgence

If you’re someone who craves extraordinary moments and unforgettable destinations, it’s time to think beyond the conventional. From private islands to luxury train journeys, here are some travel experience that redefine comfort.

Stay on a Private Island

Imagine stepping onto your own private island, where every sunrise and sunset feels like it was painted just for you. Private island stays offer unmatched seclusion, tranquility, and a level of luxury tailored to your every desire. Picture yourself in the Maldives, lounging on powdery white sands surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Or, visit the Caribbean, where verdant landscapes and coral-filled lagoons provide the perfect escape from the everyday. Whether your idea of luxury is snorkeling in vibrant reefs, dining beneath the stars, or simply soaking in the quiet, private islands are the ultimate indulgence.

Travel in Style on a Luxury Train

Step back in time and rediscover the romance of travel with a luxury train adventure. Gone are the days of uncomfortable and rushed journeys — luxury railways turn travel itself into an experience to savor. Imagine crossing through Europe’s scenic countryside while enjoying exquisite meals in richly decorated dining cars. Or, take in the dramatic landscapes of South Africa, from rugged mountains to expansive savannahs, as you sip your morning coffee on a train balcony. Whether you’re winding through snow-capped alpine passes or golden deserts, these journeys create memories that match the view outside the window.

Glamp in Remote Wilderness

For those who want the adventure of camping without sacrificing comfort, glamping is the perfect choice. Stay in elegant safari tents or eco-lodges complete with king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms, and gourmet meals. Picture waking up in Australia’s red desert to breathtaking views of Uluru or experiencing the untamed beauty of the African savanna from your private deck. Other enticing destinations include the Himalayas, where your glamping tent offers views of awe-inspiring mountain vistas, or the forests of Canada, where luxury meets the great outdoors. Glamping in remote locations lets you reconnect with nature while enjoying the finer things in life.

Immerse Yourself in Personalized Cultural Experiences

To truly connect with a destination, opt for cultural immersion trips designed just for you. Luxury doesn’t always mean detachment — sometimes, it’s about moments of genuine connection. Explore the timeless temples and villages of Southeast Asia with a knowledgeable guide, learning the stories and history that shaped the region. Join a local chef in Italy for a private farm-to-table cooking class, or experience traditional dance lessons in Spain, taught by a seasoned performer. These customized journeys combine exclusivity with authenticity, offering a deeper appreciation for the world around you without compromising comfort.

Set Sail on a Private Yacht Adventure

Swap the crowded decks of cruise ships for the intimacy of a private yacht. With unparalleled freedom, you can explore hidden coves, lesser-known islands, and secluded beaches on your terms. Mediterranean yacht charters offer the thrill of sailing between coastal gems like the Greek isles or the Amalfi Coast, where charming villages and azure waters beckon. Or, take to the Pacific and discover the volcanic landscapes of the Galapagos Islands or the pristine lagoons of French Polynesia. Private yacht travel ensures that every detail of your voyage is tailored to your preferences, from the itinerary to the cuisine.

Remember, luxury travel no longer fits into a single mold. From remote islands to savannas, private dining tables to train cars from another era, you have the freedom to curate experiences that speak to your passions and redefine what indulgence means to you. By seeking out these unique travel opportunities, your adventures will become stories to cherish and share for years to come.

Where will your next luxury escape take you?

by Melina Fragapane on 05/30/2025

3 Days of Bermuda Luxury

Bermuda, the gem of the Atlantic, offers a luxurious escape with stunning views, history, and unforgettable experiences

Where to Stay
For a first-class stay, book the St. Regis Bermuda Resort in historic St. George’s, offering ocean views and proximity to a centuries-old fort. For a boutique experience, Leamington Caves (a private rental) offers a tranquil retreat atop private limestone caves, complete with lush greenery and a pool overlooking Harrington Sound.

HOW TO TRAVEL
Elevate your trip with a private chauffeur service like Limo Bermuda or Piece of the Rock. Indulge in red carpet service and even Champagne.

Day 1
Start your day at your hotel, soaking in the views before exploring St. George’s, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour to learn its history, then enjoy Afternoon Tea at Lilli Bermuda’s Perfume Factory or The Conservatory at Rosewood Bermuda.

Stroll through St. George’s unique shops and explore historic military sites like Fort St. Catherine. End your day with a decadent dinner at BLT Steak NY at the St. Regis, featuring the unforgettable 28-day dry-aged porterhouse.

Day 2
Begin with outdoor yoga or Pilates at Salt Yoga for a refreshing start. For lunch, visit the Pink Beach Club at The Loren and savor local dishes with ocean views.

Relax at Sense spa at Rosewood Bermuda, trying unique treatments like the Sea of Life Ritual. Spend the afternoon by a reflection pool, on a pristine beach, or exploring hidden coves. For dinner, immerse yourself in history at Tom Moore’s Tavern, Bermuda’s oldest eating house dating back to 1652.

Day 3
Golfers can play at Port Royal, home to the Butterfield Bermuda Championship, or visit the Royal Naval Dockyard to explore the National Museum, shops, and Dolphin Quest. Pick up authentic Bermuda gifts, like TABS Bermuda shorts.

For lunch, enjoy a custom-curated picnic with Eettafel at an exclusive, picturesque location. End your trip with a private sunset cruise aboard ZARA’s luxury catamaran, followed by cocktails and dinner at The Cloud or Intrepid in Hamilton.

Discover Bermuda, where every moment feels like pure magic!

by Melina Fragapane on 05/30/2025

Celebrate Jane Austen's 250th Birthday in Britain

If the famous line, "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife,” makes you smile affectionately and fantasize about the green pastures, elegant architecture, style and social intrigues of Regency Britain, you are not alone. For two centuries, Jane Austen’s witty, observant and kind novels have delighted readers and inspired travelers to discover the world of the author and her cast of beloved characters.

This ground-breaking female author’s books still among the most-read English-language classics. And they are also among the most-adapted into film and television, engaging fans who may not even realize they are immersed in the world of Jane Austen. The 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice with Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy remains one of the most iconic TV adaptations. Similarly, films such as Sense and Sensibility (1995), Clueless (1995, a modern take on Emma), and Bridget Jones's Diary (based loosely on Pride and Prejudice) have brought Austen's work to new generations of fans, blending classic literature with modern sensibilities.

In 2025, Britain – and especially Jane Austen’s home county of Hampshire – will be celebrating the 250th year of her birth, with special events taking place throughout the year.

Celebrating Jane Austen in Britain: Must-Visit Destinations

From her birth in the village of Steventon in December, 1775, to a later home in Southampton, and a cottage now called Jane Austen’s House in the village of Chawton, where she lived for the last eight years of her life, to Winchester, where she died and where she is buried in Winchester Cathedral, to locations of where the romantic comedies of her stories took place, fans of Jane Austen, the Regency period and Great Britain her novels brought so vividly to life – can retrace her steps and enter the world of Jane Austen.

1. Steventon, Hampshire

Start your journey in the small village of Steventon, where Jane Austen was born on December 16, 1775. The village, with its tranquil setting, inspired much of her early writing. Although the house where she grew up no longer stands, the Steventon Church and the surrounding countryside are evocative of the rural England that shaped her stories. Take a walk through the village, imagining Austen's daily life here as she wrote Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice.

2. Chawton, Hampshire

Just a short drive from Steventon, Chawton is perhaps the most significant destination for any Austen fan. This is where she spent the last years of her life and where many of her most famous works were written, including Emma, Mansfield Park, and Persuasion. The Jane Austen's House museum in Chawton is a highlight of the visit, where you can step inside the house where she lived and worked, and see the writing desk where she completed her novels.

Click here for Jane Austen House, Chawton’s anniversary year exhibitions, events and partnerships.

The nearby Chawton House, once owned by her brother, is now a library dedicated to women’s writing, adding another layer to her literary legacy.

3. Bath, Somerset

Bath holds a special place in Austen's life and novels. The author lived in the city for several years, and it appears prominently in Northanger Abbey and Persuasion. The Georgian architecture and the famous Roman Baths give the city a sense of elegance and charm that Austen captured in her works. The Jane Austen Centre (pictured above and top) offers a fascinating glimpse into her time in Bath, with exhibits about her life and the period. Walking through the Assembly Rooms and the Royal Crescent (pictured below), you'll see the locations Austen would have frequented, bringing her stories to life.

Jane Austen Festival in Bath, held every September – 250th anniversary in 2025 - dates are September 12-21, 2025.

4. Winchester, Hampshire

The final stop on Austen’s journey, Winchester, is where she spent her last days and where she was buried in the magnificent Winchester Cathedral. Visitors can pay their respects at her tomb, which is located in the cathedral’s north aisle. The city itself is steeped in history and offers an atmospheric setting for those following in the footsteps of Austen, with its medieval streets and serene cathedral close.

Winchester Cathedral unveils a Jane Austen statue in 2025, also celebrating with a special service, theater performances and tours.

5. Lyme Regis, Dorset

For those wishing to experience the dramatic landscapes that feature in Austen’s novels, Lyme Regis on the Dorset coast is a must-see. The seaside town plays an important role in Persuasion, where Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth’s relationship is brought to a turning point. The town is famous for its fossil-filled cliffs and beautiful coastal views, making it a wonderful destination for both literary pilgrims and nature lovers.

These destinations provide not only a chance to immerse yourself in the settings that influenced Jane Austen’s writing but also an opportunity to step back into the elegance and grace of Regency-era Britain. For anyone captivated by Austen’s wit and keen social observations, visiting these spots offers a personal connection to one of England’s greatest literary figures.

START YOUR LITERARY TRIP!

Images courtesy of Visit Britain:

Top Images: Jane Austen Centre

Image of Bath: VisitBritain/Andrew Welsher

by Lynn on 05/23/2025

VIDEO: Incredible Tulip Time Scenes from an Emerald River Cruise in the Netherlands

Windmills and tulips and river cruising, oh my! Springtime serves up the most iconic sights and moments of Dutch culture – and a river cruise may be the best way to experience them all.

Our Emerald river cruise sailed round trip from Amsterdam, navigating the Netherlands’ vast network of inland waterways, canals and rivers through countryside, picturesque villages and dynamic cities. We dipped into Belgium, then swung up again to complete our circuitous route back in Amsterdam.

It was a celebration of spring and a hit parade of the most charming elements of Dutch culture.

Windmills tie with tulips as the symbol of the country, and one of our shore excursions was to Zaanse Schans, a living museum along the river, where several windmills have stood for centuries. In recent years, other historic windmills from different eras were brought to the same site. We visited on a windy day – “the millers are happy!” said our Emerald Cruises guide. So the windmills were in full operation: pumping water, grinding paint powders, or harnessing the power of the wind to perform other tasks.

We visited Delft – the town synonymous with the Netherlands’ beloved rich-blue and whiteRoyal Delft porcelain, where we learned the process that is still used today – and even got to try our hands at painting a Delft tile of our own!

On board the Emerald Sky, another cultural craft project: painting our own wooden Dutch clogs. They’re only part-cliché. As our local artist explained, clogs are still worn by some farmers today, and they’re remarkably comfortable, as well as recognized as safety footwear! Inspired by our trip to Delft- and not very good at painting – I painted my clog in Delft blue and white. The hand-sized clog is a much more manageable size than some of the canoe-sized clogs that are scattered throughout the Netherlands for visitors to take jokey photos with!

But what everyone’s here for in springtime is the tulips. Horticulture is big business in the Netherlands, which produces nearly 2/3 of the world’s spring flower bulbs.

That means that, every springtime, vast fields of tulip farms are blanketed in blooms – a spectacle you have to see to believe!

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Tulip fields, the world’s biggest spring garden and more Tulip Time scenery!

Guests on our river cruise get to see the tulip fields on their way to Keukenhof – the world’s largest spring flower garden, and the highlight of our Emerald Tulip Time river cruise.

The entire journey was experiencing one vividly colorful, record-breaking tulip spectacle after another: from tulip fields, to Keukenhof garden… to the world’s largest flower auction house.

The Royal FloraHolland auction house is the size of 200 football fields and auctions 50 million cut flowers – every day! Even if you’re not into flowers, the phenomenal logistics of the intake of that many highly perishable products, auctioning them off to buyers around the world, sorting all the supplier’s blooms into different orders for buyers and handing them off to be shipped worldwide while still fresh – is mind boggling and was one of my favorite shore excursions.

SPRING FLING

Of course, you can sail the entire river cruising season in the Netherlands. But if you want to experience one of the most iconic, seasonal river cruises – and be simply blown away – by the spring wind powering those windmills, as well as the incredible colors and spectacle of one of the most famous floral phenomena in the world! A Tulip Time river cruise must be on your life’s bucket list.

START YOUR TRIP!

Story and video by Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert.

by Lynn on 05/23/2025

Unpacked: Airline Industry Launches New Era for Luggage Handling

Compared to many aspects of air travel, modernizing baggage handling seems, well, pretty ‘delayed.’ Am I the only person who is astounded at the fact that, as airport security has tightened so much when it comes to travelers and their water bottles, people can still just pull any bag off a carousel and walk out the door with it? Or that we let even inexperienced travelers attach their own sticky paper luggage tags, willy-nilly, and just drop them on a conveyor belt, along with thousands of other travelers’ bags, all going to different destinations on different flights… and hope for the best that they’ll show up at the same time and place we do?

It honestly seems like a miracle that baggage so often turns out right rather than wrong.

How Much Luggage Gets Lost?

We’ve all heard horror stories in recent years. COVID and its aftermath wreaked havoc on air travel operations. They were dark years for luggage ‘mishandling,’ as the industry calls bags that are damaged, delayed or temporarily or permanently lost.

Some airlines – and some airports – do better than others. But overall, according to the SITA Global Baggage report, just under 7 bags for every 1000 air travelers worldwide were mishandled in 2023. That’s less than 1% - and a big improvement over the previous (pandemic aftermath) year. Still, that represents over 36 million pieces of luggage – and the tiny fraction is cold comfort if your bag is one of those that goes missing.

Operations improvements and new technology are leading the way in the war against lost luggage.

The Grassroots Air Tag Revolution

Some advances have been driven by travelers themselves.

It didn’t take long for savvy travelers to adapt handy air tag technology to track their personal bags as they flew – despite early pushback from quite a few airlines and jurisdictions. Their concern was apparently the batteries, an unfounded one, as many advocates pointed out.

Not only did airlines quietly stop banning AirTags, but many have done a 180-degree turn. Now, about a couple of dozen airlines make air tag tracking an official part of their lost luggage process, allowing passengers to share the location of missing bags from their app with their airline to help locate and retrieve their bags.

Unpacking a New Era in Baggage Handling

And most recently, the airline industry as a whole has begun a united charge to revolutionize luggage.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a 10-year “Global Baggage Roadmap” to modernize baggage operations around the world, with its member airlines, airports and industry partners all ‘weighing in’ on the best ways to make sure you and your bags reconnect no matter where and with whom you fly.

No surprise! IATA’s surveys show that:

81% of travelers want better tracking,
74% expect real-time updates on their mobile phones and
67% are willing to switch to electronic bag tags.

So IATA’s plan includes:

Baggage Information Standardization to harmonize how baggage information is shared among airlines, airports, and partners, replacing old legacy systems. This will even “significantly reduce the airline industry's annual spending of USD 1 billion on teletype messaging.” Teletype messaging? In 2025? Wow.
Real Time Baggage Tracking and Automation to provide visibility throughout the journey, using electronic baggage tags, GPS tracking, and robotics.
Streamlining the Baggage Claim Process and “enhancing the customer experience.” All those black bags, you don’t wonder how someone picks up the wrong one once in a while.

IATA thinks that within a decade, no matter where we fly around the world, our bags will be on a new, technology-driven journey right there with us.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, travel journalist and expert.

Image: Getty

by Lynn on 05/23/2025

Live the Luxe Life: Travel Like You're in The White Lotus

The “White Lotus Effect” is Hitting Hard. Let Your Next Vacation Be Inspired by HBO’s Hit Show

Lately you’ve seen what happens when a TV show becomes a cultural phenomenon. It doesn’t just spark conversations—it sparks wanderlust. HBO’s critically acclaimed series, The White Lotus, has redefined the idea of luxury travel, one season—and one breathtaking destination—at a time. From the sun-soaked shores of Italy to the tropical paradise of Maui, the series has left travelers yearning for their own slice of opulence. For your or anyone you know planning a luxury escape courtesy of what we’re dubbing “The White Lotus Wanderlust”, Travel Impressions is here to help.

Trending Destinations You Know You Want To Visit

We’ve thoughtfully and carefully curated a summary of hotels and resorts in the destinations that have been graced by The White Lotus. These properties are all about exclusivity, indulgence, and immersion as you visit the totally Instagrammable filming locations.

Hawaii: Where It All Began

Season one introduced viewers to Hawaii’s unmatched luxury: pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and high-end resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Revel in oceanfront suites with world-class service and private beachfront cabanas; seaside spa treatments and guided rainforest hikes bring revitalizing wellness.

Where to Stay (besides the aforementioned Four Seasons): Fairmont Kea Lani, Andaz Maui at Wailea, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach

Italy: The Glamour of Old-World Luxury

Season two transported viewers to the stunning shores of Italy, where cliffside resorts, historic towns, and sun-drenched vineyards became the backdrop for drama and decadence. Immerse yourself in elegant five-star accommodations, then top off the experience with special touches like a private gondola ride in Venice or a cooking class on the Amalfi Coast.

Where to Stay: The Inn at the Roman Forum, Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, The St. Regis Venice

Thailand: The Latest Hot Spot

Season three, set in Thailand, has caused demand for this destination to skyrocket. Already known for stunning scenery, holistic wellness resorts, and cultivated cultural experiences, from private temple tours to chef-led street food excursions, this up-and-coming luxury destination is no stranger to the good life.

Where to Stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort, Kimpton Kitalay Samui, Park Hyatt Bangkok

Living the Experience

Traveling halfway around the world is no small feat and shouldn’t be downplayed. Here’s our recommendations on how to match the show’s ultra-exclusive, high-touch aesthetic:

Arrange Once-in-a-Lifetime Dining – From private chefs to after-hours dinners at historic landmarks, haute gourmet experiences are a must. Think truffle hunting in Tuscany or private beachfront dining in Phuket.
Exude Glamor – indulge in private luxury car services and upgrade to Premium Economy or Business Class air. And, ask your travel advisor for more details on how to get a $100 Air Credit when you book by 12/21/25.

Luxury travel is a story waiting to be told. And with The White Lotus setting the stage, now’s the time for you to craft the next unforgettable chapter.

Contact your travel advisor to start planning your next getaway today!

by Melina Fragapane on 05/26/2025

Solo Traveling: The Joy of AmaWaterways River Cruises

When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, you will unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways was awarded “Best River Cruise Line” by the world’s leading cruise review website.

AmaWaterways warmly welcomes independent explorers who wish to travel the world, meet kindred cruisers and become a part of their extended AmaWaterways family. The well-loved crew and dedicated Cruise Manager take great care to ensure solo travelers feel safe and included throughout their journey. In fact, these river cruisers are some of AmaWaterways’ most loyal guests! Special savings on select sailings are also offered specifically for solo travelers, so you know you are getting the best value on your river cruise getaway.

Over 40 Itineraries – No Planning Required!

River cruising unaccompanied offers you the convenience of planning a vacation without having to coordinate with anyone else’s schedule. You can book travel months in advance or make reservations at the last minute. Meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for travel. Enjoy time for personal reflection and enhance your best self with host-led wellness classes. You can even spend holidays like Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s surrounded by our AmaWaterways family.  

Plus, you will be taken care of throughout every step of your river journey. AmaWaterways’ extraordinary Cruise Managers and crew continuously go above and beyond to enhance your onboard experience, surprising and delighting guests with thoughtful details, getting to know you personally and anticipating your needs before you even have to ask. AmaWaterways’ exceptional people are the main reason more guests return to cruise with them than with any other river cruise line - a testament to their passion and unrivaled service.

Just for Solo Travelers

AmaWaterways offers many benefits that make our itineraries incredible for solo river cruisers. You will be invited to a special cocktail hour and introduced to other guests traveling independently. During the cruise, independent travelers are also given a private ship tour led by the Captain, including the rare chance to visit the Wheelhouse! You may even be invited to dine with one of the ship’s officers at their table in the Main Restaurant. 

The Main Restaurant is designed with many tables featuring an odd number of seats, specifically with solo travelers in mind. Plus, when you make reservations at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, you will be seated with fellow guests so that you can savor this multi-course menu while making new friends.

On AmaWaterways’ stunning French balcony ships, AmaLyra, AmaCello, AmaDante and AmaDolce, a limited number of single occupancy staterooms are available for reservation. These special staterooms were specifically made with solo travelers in mind, and the single supplement is waived when staying in them.

Solo in the Summer

With the sun shining into the evening hours and lending lovely temperatures for nighttime strolls, you can both see and explore more on AmaWaterways’ summer river cruises, enjoying the flexibility that solo traveling provides to the fullest. Bask in the sun’s warm rays on your balcony or in the sun-deck pool and watch the world go by. You can also choose to embark on AmaWaterways’ itineraries that offer more than one overnight in smaller towns and larger cities such as Rüdesheim, Amsterdam, Basel, Vienna or Budapest, giving you the opportunity to explore the local nightlife at your leisure.

Fall and Festive Delights

Cruising during autumn can also be an exciting experience for solo travelers! Fall is grape harvest season in many wine regions, and traveling during this time can provide unique opportunities for wine tastings and culinary experiences. November welcomes the wine harvest and all the celebrations this annual event brings. As the new wine from the season’s harvest begins to flow in November, Austrian Heurigers spring to life, inviting all who visit to share in the magical ambience of these seasonal celebrations on the Danube River.

November also marks the beginning of AmaWaterways’ Festive Delights itineraries! Whether embarking in Germany, France, Portugal, Hungary, Romania, the Netherlands or Switzerland, festive activities and traditional delights await around every corner of the ship, with activities such as tree trimming, gingerbread decorating and Christmas caroling on every departure. Be treated to a delightful array of seasonal treats, from warm mulled wine to an assortment of festive cookies, all while participating in joyful traditions such as caroling. Every moment on board the most festively decorated ships on the rivers invites you to immerse yourself in the splendor of the holiday season, crafted to create memories that will be cherished forever.

With new itineraries, exceptional service, farm-to-table culinary experiences and a commitment to whole-body wellness, AmaWaterways offers travelers the ultimate way to discover the heart of Europe—one river at a time. For a limited time, reserve your stateroom on select 2025 Europe sailings and pay a single supplement of just 10%. This offer is combinable with AmaWaterways’ special AirPlus fixed rates on airfare, so you will be enjoying great value at every step of your journey.

Contact your preferred travel advisor to learn more!

by Melina Fragapane on 05/23/2025

Experience France’s Finest with AmaWaterways

Experience France’s Finest with AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways has long set the gold standard for river cruising with their commitment to immersive and authentic itineraries, exceptional service, and culinary excellence. AmaWaterways’ French itineraries—including Taste of Bordeaux, Colors of Provence and the new 14-night Grand Seine & Bordeaux and Grand Seine & Rhône—offer a uniquely enriching way to experience France’s legendary rivers and diverse regions.

The AmaWaterways Difference

From the moment you step aboard an AmaWaterways ship, you’re enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The ships are thoughtfully designed to be spacious and uncrowded, ensuring panoramic views and a sense of tranquility. The attentive crew and charismatic Cruise Managers are renowned for their personalized service, consistently earning glowing reviews from guests who praise the comfort, hospitality and attention to detail that define every AmaWaterways journey.

Onboard your ship, the amenities abound. Relax by the sun-deck whirlpool, join complimentary host-led group fitness classes and reminisce on the day’s adventures during the daily Sip & Sail complimentary cocktail hour. As the first river cruise line to join La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, AmaWaterways brings the flavors of each region to your plate, from locally sourced cheeses and wines to the Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, where an indulgent multi-course tasting menu awaits.

AmaWaterways’ commitment to authentic exploration shines through its array of daily shore excursions—all included in the cruise fare. You can choose from up to six included excursions each day, ranging from guided hikes and bike tours to walking tours at varying activity levels to culinary demonstrations and wine tastings. All excursions are conducted in small groups, typically fewer than 25 guests, ensuring a personalized experience and meaningful engagement with local culture and history.

Taste of Bordeaux: A Wine Lover’s Dream

The 7-night Taste of Bordeaux cruise is a celebration of France’s most storied wine region. Cruising the Garonne and Dordogne rivers, this itinerary is a must for oenophiles and foodies alike, featuring visits to historic châteaux, interactive wine experiences and timeless vineyards. Guests can also look forward to epicurean excursions such as a hands-on bread-making workshop at an ancient watermill in Libourne. With the addition of the pre-cruise land package in Spain’s Basque Country, home to a constellation of Michelin-starred restaurants, you can savor Europe’s finest flavors over four nights before your cruise.

During the holiday season, Taste of Bordeaux becomes a charming year-end escape as a Festive Delights cruise, complete with tree trimming, cookie decorating and seasonally inspired dining, all set against the backdrop of Bordeaux’s magical winter charm.

Colors of Provence: Art, History and Gastronomy

The 7-night Colors of Provence itinerary along the Rhône River is a feast for the senses. Cruising between Arles and Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, this cruise is perfect for travelers passionate about art, history and cuisine. Highlights include exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Avignon, tracing Van Gogh’s footsteps in Arles and indulging in regional specialties such as truffle-infused dishes and Beaujolais wines.

For those cruising during the holidays, the Colors of Provence (Festive Delights) itinerary offers a uniquely French festive atmosphere, with opportunities to shop for traditional santons (petite nativity figurines) and savor mulled wine in elegantly decorated towns like Lyon and Avignon.

Grand Seine & Bordeaux and Grand Seine & Rhône: The Ultimate French River Journeys

New for 2025, AmaWaterways’ 14-night Grand River Cruises—Grand Seine & Bordeaux and Grand Seine & Rhône—are designed for travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of France’s diverse regions.

Grand Seine & Bordeaux begins in Paris, where guests cruise the Seine to Normandy, visiting the poignant D-Day landing beaches and Monet’s gardens at Giverny. After returning to Paris, a train journey whisks guests to Bordeaux for a second week of wine tastings, château visits and culinary adventures in the world-renowned region. Exclusive experiences, such as a private wine festival in Bourg and hands-on macaron-making workshops, deepen your connection to French culture and gastronomy.

Grand Seine & Rhône also starts in Paris, with a cruise to Normandy and historic Rouen before transferring by train to Dijon. From there, guests board a second AmaWaterways ship and continue south along the Rhône, visiting truffle farms, savoring Burgundy’s wines and exploring the artistic heritage of Arles. This itinerary seamlessly blends the best of northern and southern France, from the iconic landmarks of Paris to the sun-drenched vineyards of Provence.

Both Grand River Cruises include ship-to-ship luggage service for a seamless transition between regions and optional land packages in Paris, the Loire Valley, or the French Riviera for those wishing to extend their stay in France even longer.

Exclusive Offer

Receive up to $300 per stateroom in onboard credit when you reserve select AmaWaterways cruise departures. This credit can be used for gratuities, spa treatments or boutique purchases, adding extra value to an already exceptional journey.

Discover France with AmaWaterways

Whether you’re drawn to the vineyards of Bordeaux, the stunning landscapes of Provence or the historic landmarks of Normandy and Paris, AmaWaterways’ French river cruises promise an immersive, luxurious and unforgettable experience. With expertly curated itineraries, award-winning service and exclusive amenities, there’s never been a better time to discover the heart of France by river. For more information or to reserve your journey, contact your travel advisor today.

by Melina Fragapane on 05/23/2025