Bold Traveller - The Cruise Edition (Fall/Winter-2025)

INTO THE BLUE

CRUISE ADVENTURES FROM ANTARCTICA TO ALASKA TO THE CARIBBEAN

TURKS AND CAICOS PERU PANAMA ST. VINCENT

In this issue

11 ON OUR RADAR What’s capturing our attention right now, from exhibitions and events to flavours and fragrances

19 PLACES TO STAY From Panama to Montreal, the hotels and resorts worth checking into

25 THE QUIET SIDE OF PARADISE Beyond Providenciales, the lesser-travelled islands of Turks and Caicos reveal a low-key rhythm of luxury, shaped by salt, sea and time

31 STEPS TO THE SKY On a climb through cloud forests and ancient stone paths, one traveller finds connection, resilience and wonder at the world’s edge – high above Machu Picchu

36 WHISPERS OF THE CARIBBEAN On St. Vincent and the Grenadines, island life moves in harmony between culture, comfort and calm, proof that paradise still has the power to surprise

42 THE BOLD CRUISE REPORT

Our picks of the best cruise journeys, from Alaska to Antarctica and beyond

66 POSTCARD FROM… BAIE-SAINT-PAUL, QUEBEC

Where art, light and the Laurentians converge in a celebration of creativity

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Vivian Vassos

ART DIRECTION AND DESIGN

Megan Cronje

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Vawn Himmelsbach

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Liz Fleming, Ruth J. Katz

Brittany Johnson, Aaron Rasmussen

CONTRIBUTORS

Erin Nicole Davis, Meagan Drillinger, Lynn Elmhirst, Jennifer Merrick, Toby Saltzman, Dick Snyder

PUBLISHER

Marlon Moreno

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

Rebecca Marissa Cohen

WEB DEVELOPER Komodo Innovations Inc. info@komodoinnovations.com

Rahul Nair

DIGITAL COORDINATOR Icaro Lima

BECOME A SUBSCRIBER

Canada: One year for $59 + HST

United States: One year for $129

International: One year for $159

CUSTOMER SERVICE subscriptions@boldtraveller.ca

ADVERTISING

For Advertising, Promotion, Reprints and Sponsorships Inquiries publisher@morenoco.com 1.647.780.8082

CORRESPONDENCE

The Hudson Bay Centre 20 Bloor St. East P.O. Box 75075 Toronto, On. M4W 3T3

BOLD Traveller® is published by Moreno Co. Communications. Opinions expressed in Bold Traveller® are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the publisher or advertisers. Bold Traveller® does not assume liability for content.

Soaring over the turquoise waters of Turks and Caicos

Photography: Turks and Caicos Tourism

AWE.

AFTER HAVING THE PRIVILEGE of editing the inspiring stories in this issue, I couldn’t help but think that, for me, this has been a year full of awe.

Earlier this year, BOLD Traveller was honoured with and invited to accept an award from the Croatia tourism board for our storytelling. It took place in Istria and, although I’ve been in the magazine biz for ages, it was still an overwhelming moment to be able to accept this acknowledgement for my writing. Even more importantly, it was a milestone that allowed me to represent BOLD and also represent Canada. Winning the grand prize among a group of global storytellers was the icing on the cake.

To say that Istria is comparable to Tuscany is a little misleading, yet some of its finest attributes include sippable wines, fresh seafood, velvety olive oil and savoury truffles. The region’s largest peninsula, it is firmly Adriatic with its craggy, dramatic coastline, but it’s also blessed with verdant hillsides,

ON THE COVER

A private dining experience on Evrima, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s flagship, named for a word of Greek origin, meaning “discovery.”

olive trees with silver-green leaves that reflect the sun, vineyards that climb up said hills like plaits and wonderful, historic seaside towns. Before leaving Croatia, I spent a long weekend in Zagreb, the country’s capital city. It was my first visit, and it is, in my mind, right up there with its better-known AustroHungarian sister cities like Budapest and Prague – if you toss in a bit of grit.

In 2020, Zagreb was shaken to its core. Covid aside, a massive earthquake struck the city on the eve of lockdown, severely damaging some of the city’s most architecturally significant buildings. Yet, on this spring day five years later, the sunlight is illuminating those same buildings, all pastel hues and white details, the public squares and cafés with nary an empty chair. This tells a different story, a story of resilience and a joy of living; the city’s architects and artists still painstakingly restoring the public buildings that sustained damage. Zagreb is an amazingly walkable city, with pedestrian streets lined with restaurants and shops and cafés bustling with cool people, while monumental cathedrals and imposing fortresses stand guard over the upper and the lower town.

In the constant pursuit of sharing these stories with you, dear BOLD reader, there’s an ulterior motive. It’s the pursuit of inspiring you to travel, to experience the world for yourself or to live vicariously through our talented writers’ words, and perhaps put a smile on your face or provide food for thought, in a snapshot.

This is travel. It is the people that build the community that welcomes you; who wrap their arms around you and hope to inspire you to get to know them and their culture for a greater understanding. And hopefully take a little piece of that home with you.

In the last year, we have collectively been shaken to our core. We’re experiencing a seismic shift, but I do believe we can persevere like Zagreb, and keep building a world full of awe.

Safe travels,

Vivian Vassos Editor in Chief

Portrait of Marie Antoinette, Painters of the cabinet of the King after Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun © Grand Palais RMN (Château de Versailles) / Gérard Blot

ON OUR RADAR

WHAT’S NEW, NOTABLE AND WORTH YOUR ATTENTION THIS SEASON

Edited by Vivian Vassos

Two new exhibits are going back to back in London, England, now through spring and into autumn 2026

Portrait of Marie Antoinette, on exhibit at London’s V&A Museum

FIRST ON THE AGENDA IS Marie Antoinette Style: Shaped by the Most Fashionable Queen in History. The exhibition aims to explore the ill-fated French queen, who may just be one of the OG fashion influencers, and her style and its impact on more than 250 years of design, art and film beyond her doomed reign. Highlights include items and objets d’arts from her wardrobe, from slippers to furniture, as well as more modern-day takes on her style by footwear designer Manolo Blahnik (who is also the lead sponsor of the exhibition) and outtakes from films and fashion shoots inspired by the iconic queen. V&A Museum South Kensington, on now, closes March 22, 2025. vam.ac.uk

LONG LIVE LILIBET

HOT ON THE WELL-HEELED HEELS of Marie Antoinette comes Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style. Not to be outdone, the spring exhibition marks the centenary of Her Royal Highness’s birth, with more than 200 looks on display (some never before seen in a museum setting). Taking place at The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace, the court planners say it is the largest and most comprehensive exhibition on Elizabeth’s style – both personal and diplomatic. The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace; tickets will be released from November 2025 onward; the exhibition runs from spring 2026 until autumn 2026. Sign up for ticket release dates at rct.uk

Supremely Scent-sational

Fragrances we’re spritzing on now, fit for every style queen – or king

1. Armani My Way Eau de Parfum Nectar The king of fashion may have passed away earlier in 2025 but there’s no question he was one fashion’s ultimate trailblazers. Fitting then that the latest from the house is called My Way, a juicy blend of pear, rhubarb, bergamot and orange blossom. Go deeper and detect tuberose, warm cedarwood, vanilla bourbon and white musk, all housed in a new, pretty-inpink bottle. $160, shoppersdrugmart.ca

2. Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal

Intense Eau de Parfum

Intense for Him If Armani is the king of fashion, then Jean Paul Gaultier is the prince of subversive design. The French house has released Scandal

Pour Homme Intense, described by the perfumers as “your one-way ticket to a ride named desire.” Sensual leather, fiery vetiver, aromatic clary sage, a statement scent if there ever was one. $172, shoppersdrugmart.ca

3. Guerlain Aqua Allegoria

Florabloom Forte Eau de Parfum The beauty house is built around the image of a Queen Bee and Florabloom is no exception. Tuberose, Grasse centifolia rose and warm notes of powdery violet and iris are all in bloom. Speaking of which, it’s inspired by the natural phenomenon known as a superbloom: a rainbow carpet of desert flowers that suddenly spring to life after heavy rainfall. $165 shoppersdrugmart.ca

Photography: Wardrobe, crystal flask belonging to Marie Antoinette and film still from Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette (courtesy of I WANT CANDY LLC. and Zoetrope Corp.), all © Victoria and Albert Museum, London; Queen Elizabeth II on Princess Margaret’s Wedding Day, Cecil Beaton, 1960.

Credit: © Cecil Beaton / Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

A view of Glasgow’s Hope Street, the Voco Grand Central hotel and train station

GAME ON!

Courting the Commonwealth

Event travel is all the rage. From Taylor Swift’s Eras world tour to the FIFA World Cup in North America, happenings are what’s happening right now.

NEXT UP IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city and a UNESCO City of Music. It’s also known as a hub of art and design and is celebrating its 850th birthday.

WHY: The city will host the Commonwealth Games, July 23 - August 2, 2026

STAY: Voco Grand Central Glasgow, right above the city’s historic train station. The curved windows of the Champagne bar overlook the bustle of the train station below, while the grand staircases and spacious rooms will make you feel like you’ve turned back time to when Dukes and Duchesses – or Winston Churchill or Frank Sinatra – still held court in this Victorian property.

DON’T MISS: The Burrell Collection, a personal treasure trove of Sir William Burrell of more than 9,000 objects with origins spanning 6,000 years of history. The award-winning building itself will please architecture buffs, and a look inside the Burrell family’s life is fascinating. Among the ancient, medieval, Chinese and Islamic collections, you’ll spot works by Rodin, Degas and Cézanne, to name a few bold-face names. visitglasgow.org.uk; visitscotland.com

THE ART OF THE POUR

From Niagara’s limestone-rich soils to British Columbia’s sun-warmed slopes and the storied vineyards of Spain, three visionary estates are mastering a delicate balance By Dick Snyder

ON SEVEN ESTATE WINERY

Niagara, Ont.

A relative newcomer to the Ontario wine scene, On Seven Estate Winery specializes in the Burgundian varieties of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

The Pursuit 2021 Chardonnay is made from 100 percent organic fruit, hand-harvested and whole-cluster pressed, then aged in French oak for 20 months. The wine is aromatic with notes of apricot, almond and fresh spices (fennel, coriander), with a touch of smoke and wet stone. $48, onsevenwinery.ca

MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE WINERY

Okanagan Valley, B.C.

The Mission Hill winery in B.C.’s Okanagan Valley has been blazing trails for decades.

Oculus 2020 represents the epitome of Mission Hill’s prowess, since 1997 occupying the apex role as the winery’s flagship. The 2020, aged 19 months in French oak, puts Merlot front and centre. The wine received 100 points from veteran wine critic John Schreiner. $225, missionhillwinery.com

MARQUÉS DE RISCAL

Rueda, Spain

At once steeped in tradition and focused on innovation and sustainability, Marqués di Riscal was founded in 1858 in the Rioja Alavesa wine region.

Marqués de Riscal Verdejo 2023 epitomizes the crisp, easy drinking style of contemporary Rueda, this white is made from the region’s indigenous verdejo grape, a highly aromatic variety that is versatile with food or for sipping on its own. $17.65, marquesderiscal.com

King Family Vineyards, at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains

Vines & Wines

Among the vineyards in some of the oldest winemaking areas of North America, Vivian Vassos takes a sip

DID YOU KNOW that some of the oldest European wine-grape vines in North America were planted right here in Virginia? It’s considered the birthplace of winemaking on this continent using European vines, and dates back to the 1600s.

Thomas Jefferson was also a fan, and brought vines from France in the 1700s, and encouraged other founding fathers such as George Washington to take part in the enterprise. You can still visit the site of some of Jefferson’s original vineyards near Monticello, his home in central Virginia.

But it was the Italians that finally made the art of winemaking in this region stick. In the Piedmont region of the Commonwealth, you’ll find Barboursville Vineyards, where the general manager is third-generation Italian/American winemaker Luca Paschina. Follow the Monticello Wine Trail from here or, if you’d rather try a variety of wines, the Virginia Wine Collective has opened near Charlottesville.

We’re not the only ones taking notice; Wine Enthusiast magazine recently named Charlottesville as the Best Wine Region in the world. Here, you can sip and sample wines from seven independent winemakers’ vintages. And the wine world at large is also showing up: In 2024, Vinexpo held the 5th edition of its Vinexpo Explorer Vinexposium event (meant to spotlight “under the radar” wine regions), where the Commonwealth welcomed more than 40 wine and spirit buyers from around the world to experience Virginia wines.

BOLD TASTE

Photography: Hannah Armstrong; Sarah Ann Atkins; Virginia Tourism Corporation

Playing host to more than 40 wine and spirit buyers from around the world, including Canada, was the Boar’s Head Resort. Just off the beaten track in Charlottesville, the bucolic location of Boar’s Head feels as if you’re surrounded in rural countryside with its walkable paths ambling alongside sparkling ponds. It’s a tad enchanted, too; as I take a stroll on the grounds to stretch my legs, I encounter art installations and sculptures – giant flowers laced with twinkling lights, a few bronze boars –dotted among the woods and lawns.

In Crozet, about 15 minutes from Charlottesville, we pour out of the bus that has been hired to ferry the group around, and onto the green lawns at King Family Vineyards. With stretches of green that are as good for grazing as they are for playing Polo (yes, you can do that here), and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance, the vineyard is a multi-tasking enterprise, yet with a down-home feel. The white clapboard barn-style building welcomes us; inside, two long tables are set for dinner –for about 200; outside the fire pit is blazing to help keep away the early autumn chill. The wine-tasting room is open daily, and I’m enjoying a sip of the King Family’s Crosé, a crisp rose in a peachy pink hue that perfectly pairs with the sun’s setting light.

We’ve had plenty of wine, so it’s time to switch gears to the spirit world. Not supernatural, per se, but spirits in the sense of distilleries. Bourbon,

whisky, rye, gin, you name it, the day starts at Virago Spirits, where rum is king. No wonder, with a history of pirates and shipwrecks off Virginia’s coast, rum might be the libation of choice. Six different types are distilled here, along with two flavour-infused gins (hibiscus and oolong tea); as well as a coffee liqueur.

Next up, Ironclad Distillery. With its cool speakeasy-meets-grandma’sliving-room vibe, overstuffed couches and long wooden bar, this place is definitely worth the time for a hang. Happy hour would be a relaxed affair, but we’re here just in time for a tasting of Ironclad’s specialty: bourbon and bourbon-based cocktails. Manhattans, Old Fashions – even the mixologist’s take on a Sazerac – are on the menu. Order one, sink into one of the comfy couches and sip away.

At Copper Fox, sure there’s bourbon, but there’s also rye, single malt whiskys and vodka for good measure. Rather than peat, the distiller here uses fruit woods to smoke and dry the grains used in spirits. To malt the barley, it’s spread out on the floor like a nubbly rug; all the grain is sourced from a single farmer.

We’re just in time to watch the sun make its descent, the early autumn sky is a striated painting of pinks, oranges, blues and golds, reflected in the leaves that dot the hillsides that surround Barboursville Winery. The stone terrace gives off a Tuscany aura, the vines lining up in organized rows alongside are part of the view.

But we’re in Virginia, where these European vines have a 400-year history (some vines in Nova Scotia are rumoured to have a provenance that may be almost as old). Virginian winemakers are making waves with the Viognier grape; fascinating as the winemakers in BC’s Okanagan Valley are also giving this varietal a go. But for Barboursville winemaker Paschina, it’s the red that makes his heart jump. Octagon 2021 is the showpiece, an award-winning Bordeaux blend, a no-holds-barred mix of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot.

As I savour a sip, the sky is still aglow, refracting like a rainbow against the ruby wine in my glass.

GOOD TO KNOW: Starting in February, Carnival Cruise Line will offer year-round cruises from the “Mermaid City,” Norfolk, Virginia, to ports in the Eastern Caribbean and the Bahamas on the Carnival Sunshine virginia.org/canada

Boar’s Head Resort

Copper Fox Distillery

PLACES TO STAY

What Becomes a Legend Most?

Vivian Vassos checks into the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo in Panama City to find out

“BIENVENIDA, SEÑORA!”

The doorman welcomes me, effortlessly helping me with my bags, while spinning the door open and simultaneously producing a refreshing welcome bevvie. I step in, smile, take a sip, and then happily stake a place in the airy lobby.

I’m at the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo in Panama City, and I’ve also seemingly stepped back in time. I’m sitting on a circle-shaped settee, the kind you might find in a century-old lady’s drawing room, waiting to be checked in. The staff are dressed in perfectly pressed whites and Panama hats; the lobby’s nautical themes – a vintage lemon-yellow ship’s engine order telegraph perched atop the couch creates a cheery focal point – are offset by the stuffed vases of green and white blooms reaching out of their glass confines toward the sparkling crystal chandelier and into the air. Intricately patterned tiles are everywhere: joyously lining the floor, the bar’s front and as a Colonial-era mural mosaic of a map, which shows off Panama’s most famous piece of human ingenuity, the Panama Canal. Black-and white historical prints smattered along the walls are throwbacks to a time when this house was a seat of government.

My corner suite comes complete with wraparound black-iron railed balcony. It gives me a view of the square that the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo sits on in the wonderfully preserved UNESCO historic district of Panama City, all white-washed walls, ornate balconies and terracotta-tiled roofs; as well as Panama Bay and the core’s modern skyscrapers beyond. The riot of decorated tiles continues in my room, cream and navy playing nicely with the deep blue claw-foot bathtub. A four poster bed (without the canopy) in a warm wood reflective of the herringbone hardwood floors

feels suitably modern and of the era. Now to get my bearings. How better than at the Casco Viejo’s rooftop bar? Ammi also overlooks the bay, and the DJ has already pumped the crowd up this early evening. It’s threatening rain, but umbrellas pop open to the rhythm of the Champagne corks the bartenders are releasing, and everyone’s at ease.

The designers have brought the outdoors in, with lush green live plants hanging from the ceiling, acting as privacy barriers between tables and as inspiration for the jungle print uniforms our servers are sporting. Night falls, and the lights of the buildings and bridges on the bay begin to twinkle in the distance. Tacos and tequila (they mix an excellent spicy Margarita) are the order and, since we are in Central America, we finish with a classic velvety flan.

I thought to nightcap there, but a wander wouldn’t hurt. Along a corridor, I encounter a random dark wood bookshelf, set in the wall just so. Turns out it swings open and reveals Casco Viejo’s speakeasy. Tonight the mixologists are hosting fellow cocktail gurus from around the city to create their own one-night-only sip. Okay, twist my arm, but just one.

Morning brings birdsong. Apparently, I’m sharing my balcony’s Casco Viejo town view with a kind of black bird, its tail long and paddle-like. He doesn’t seem fussed that I’d like to take my coffee at my little table. He sings and watches me warily out of the corner of his eye. He flaps off just as I’m finishing my caffeine fix, taking flight as if to say, go on, time for you to get out and explore.

There’s an informative historic city tour with an expert local guide, a Panama Hat fitting (fun fact: the toppers are originally from Ecuador) and some excellent meals in quirky establishments (try Cantina de Tigre for lunch – plantains and zingy ceviche, anyone?). And don’t be surprised if

Sofitel Legend

Casco Viejo, Panamá

you see people ordering Dim Sum. It’s a bit of an obsession with Panamanians at the moment. But it’s the monument to human ingenuity that has me the most excited. There are football stadium-sized bleachers that run along one side of a point at the Panama Canal from where you can watch the canal fill up, sink, and fill up again while moving almost every kind of floating vessel, from yacht-style sailboats to cargo ships. They come from halfway around the world – to make their way to the other half. This marvel also moves cruise ships, many of which make

Panama City a port of call, allowing a sailing that starts in the Gulf of Mexico, for example, to then head westward and then into the waters of the Pacific.

You’re close enough to wave to crews while they make their way past, and some of the gargantuan cargo ships can take hours to cross. But it’s a pin-dot in comparison to having to navigate all the way down and around South America’s Cape Horn.

Back at the Casco Viejo, I’m greeted by a snack-time spread my butler has left for me, along with fresh-pressed juice. I swing open the doors to the balcony to see if my blackbird friend might be there. Alas, the railing is clear.

CHECK IN

But as I lean out, there’s a different kind of romantic rendezvous. A bride and her groom are embracing on the stone overlook by the water’s edge, just the two of them with a photographer capturing the moment with the heritage buildings as the backdrop. I hear a flutter; the black bird had been there all along and had quietly taken wing, as light as a lover’s kiss, floating into the air.

sofitel-legend-panama.com

OR SET SAIL WITH: Cunard, MSC Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn. To book with BOLD’s trusted partners: RSSC.com; or msccruises.ca.

More places to stay

Vivian Vassos

FAIRMONT THE QUEEN ELIZABETH, MONTREAL

WHY: Feel regal

The city’s grand railroad hotel is ready for her latest close up. Book a stay at the newly reimagined Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, which sits right above Montreal’s Central Station, where trains arrive conveniently underneath its storied halls. It’s an easy escalator ride to the lobby; then restore your senses with afternoon tea in the light-filled Rosélys Restaurant or if the weather’s balmy, a crafted cocktail at the brand new rooftop terrace bar. Creatives can channel their inner artistic child with a brunch and painting class at Marché Artisans, a local goods purveyor, coffee shop and breakfast spot all in one. We say, oui. fairmont.com

THE ROSEWOOD, BAHA MAR, NASSAU, BAHAMAS

WHY: Bahamian healing

A flash of pink and black is emerging, slowly, from behind the palm fronds. It’s a pair of flamingos, picking their path on their spindly legs with a high-kneed purpose. They stop, but only for a moment, to check us out, a quartet of guests about to take in a “Pilates with Flamingos” class.

Yoga mats are spread out on the lawn, each one of us waiting, not sure what to do. Will a sudden movement agitate the birds? Will loud noises (or the groans from those of us who haven’t stretched in awhile) set them off?

Apparently not. These are the Rosewood Baha Mar’s resident feathered friends. Their handler does warn us that if the birds happen to come close to have a sniff or a nudge, to not bolt or jerk away. They mean no harm, so remain calm.

It’s my first time doing mat pilates, let alone with flamingos strutting around me, and it’s actually really great. The instructor eases us into each move, assessing our fitness levels and offering alternatives if our bodies don’t quite go in the direction necessary. The birds don’t distract. The class goes smoothly, and the flamingos stick around long enough to allow a selfie or two.

Stretch, and now spa. I’m booked at Sense, A Rosewood Spa, for the Arawak BodyBalance, based on healing practices of some of the island’s first peoples, the Arawak Indians. It’s a combination of exfoliation, body wrap and massage using Bahamian ingredients known for restorative properties. My therapist shares that her granny would use some of the herbs in healing teas. She also lived a long healthy life, so say no more, I’m in.

Massage, and now martinis. Okay, it may not be healing but it’s a different kind of reviving reward. The bar at Daniel Boulud’s resto at Rosewood, Café Boulud, has a unique happy hour offering the day I visit: Martinis and caviar bites. You don’t have to ask me twice. The salty little pearls are an excellent foil to the stiff, savoury liquid; if a classic Martini is a little too spirit forward, ask the bartender to give it their own personal twist. There were two or three variations on the menu. Variety, indeed. DON’T MISS: Musician extraordinaire Jon Batiste’s Jazz Club at Baha Mar. You might get lucky as the New Orleans maestro sometimes plays his eponymous club.

rosewoodhotels.com/en/baha-mar

FAIRMONT WATERFRONT

VANCOUVER

WHY: To dance the night away Oops, Fairmont Waterfront has done it again. The hotel’s event planners are bringing back its popular silent disco series: ARC After Dark: Silent Disco Edition, and taking it indoors to ARC Restaurant. Launched in November, the Friday night event promises an immersive night of music and joyful connection, with a culinary adventure thrown in. Exec chef Harris Sakalis’ signature three-course Province to Plate menu features both seafood and farm-to-fork ingredients and is the perfect way to get the party started. Pop on the headphones, choose your groove and burn those calories. Confirmed dates include January 23, 2026, with more dates to come.

If getting down on the dance floor’s not your thing, consider getting into a downward dog or a soundbath as part of the Waterfront’s ongoing wellness program – yoga, pilates, stretching, soundbathing and, on certain days of the week, a guided run along Vancouver’s seawall. Or try a unique take on a romantic evening with the Candlelit Soundscapes & Supper, where calming

sound meditation is followed by chef Sakalis’ locavore-driven dinner.

THE BONUS? The Waterfront is positioned perfectly to be a pre- or post-cruise stay, as the port is right next door.

fairmont-waterfront.com

THE DORIAN, CALGARY

WHY: Award-winning, city cool This is one of our favourite hotels to stay at, not just in Calgary, but across Canada. But we’re not the only ones that appreciate the Autograph Collection’s unique style and hospitality. It’s just been named Alberta’s Leading Boutique Hotel 2025 by the World Travel Awards – where the judges don’t take the art of hospitality lightly. They’ve been bestowing this honour on hotels around the globe since 1993, and establish their picks through votes cast by travel pros, travel media and travel guests, for a well-rounded view. And did we mentioned it’s a Calgary-local enterprise, and women-owned and led?

We like it for the innovative interior design, service that makes us feel special and right at home, and all the sophisticated spaces where we can eat, drink and generally have a great time. And speaking of views: Don’t miss cocktails at The Wilde on 27 – The Dorian’s rooftop resto awarded one Michelin Key and the chicest bar in town. thedorianhotel.com

NATURALLY, NICARAGUA

Untouched and unspoiled, the beauty of nature in Nicaragua fosters a genuine feeling of well-being

VOLCANIC LANDSCAPES. Lush green forests. Rainforest canopies. Sparkling lakes. Ocean surf for swimming or hanging 10, beaches for sun worshipping and a healthy dose of vitamin D. We want it all – well-being is at the heart of this engaging destination. But there’s more to Nicaragua than this. Immersive and authentic community experiences, cultural heritage and history – and a burgeoning agronomy of coffee and rum.

Nicaragua’s appeal is myriad. The traveller who considers themselves part explorer and part conscious will appreciate the opportunity to go slow, inhale the clean air, dip a toe or go full-on into regenerative travel. Go off the beaten path, meet the locals and learn more about this emerging Central American destination.

Nicaragua’s appeal is myriad. The traveller who considers themselves part explorer and part conscious will appreciate the opportunity to go slow, inhale the clean air, dip a toe or go fullon into regenerative travel

For those seeking a softer footprint and what travel trend setters are calling Quietcations, Nicaragua is among the best places to fulfil this bucket list wish. Nature takes centre stage here, inspiring a deeper connection to the land – the soundtrack provided by the wildlife and the gentle breezes that ruffle the trees and plants; Nicaragua is blessed with the highest coverage of forest in Central America, providing a home for more than 2,000 species of animals. Birdsong is the musical accompaniment, with more than 700 winged beauties taking flight and feathering their nests here. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot Nicaragua’s national bird, the Guardabarranco, otherwise known as the turquoise-browed motmot.

Head to the Pacific Coast, a 30-mile stretch of untarnished coastline and undisturbed forest known as a surfer’s paradise in one of the country’s top spots for sustainable adventure and relaxation. A few days surrounded in this natural wonder will have your body feeling a wellness reset. Experience a release of stress and tension as you hike through one of 76 protected areas or national parks. Kayak a smoothas-glass lake, or touch the sky as you navigate the rainforest canopy on sky bridges that may also take you through the mists of cloud forest. Surf on land via the thrilling descent of volcanic sandboarding on the black sands of the Cerro Negro; or take the board to the beach, and hit the waves for top-ranked surfing, scuba diving, sailing and fishing.

THE ISLANDS YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU HAD TO VISIT

Speaking of coastline, Nicaragua also features lovely secluded beaches and lesser-travelled villages on its islands. Little Corn Island, a mere 50 miles off the country’s east coast, is a Quietcationer’s dream. Like a microcosm of Nicaragua’s seaside culture, the beaches are welcoming without being crowded, while the turquoise water is calm and invites one to gently float away the day.

The Isletas de Granada is an archipelago forged from the fury of the Mombacho volcano. No longer active, but its island offspring numbers 365. They dot Lake Cocibolca like a string of emeralds set in the sapphire of more than 8,000 sq kms of sea.

FOR SOFT AND SLOW TRAVELLERS –BUT WHO ARE NO LESS ADVENTUROUS

Sounds wonderful? We’ve created a list of favourite ways to experience the well-being properties of being surrounded by Nicaragua’s natural beauty. Do one, or do them all, it will be good for renewing and rejuvenating your body, mind and spirit.

Eco-High Wander the walkways of Maderas or soar through Mombacho by zipline, and experience the call of tropical birds and rare howler monkeys punctuating the forest’s otherwise magical stillness.

CULTURAL IMMERSION

Beyond the beaches and forests, Nicaragua and its history is worth exploring. Marvel at the architecture of Granada, Nicaragua’s oldest city, where culture, art, gastronomy and everyday urban life meet. Don’t be surprised to hear live music and see local performances in the main square. Or go beyond the city and get involved in the regenerative travel movement. Rural and community tourism encourages sustainable adventures, unique-to-Nicaragua experiential and hands-on experiences with locals who are happy to showcase their heritage.

GO WEST

In the western city of Leon and its baroque vibe, you’ll find one of Nicaragua’s most significant historical monuments, the Basilica de León, a world heritage site and also the final resting place of muchloved poet Rubén Dario, and where important religious works of art are on display.

HAVE A COFFEE – OR A SIP OF RUM

Nicaragua is in a unique part of the world, where its location and its environment nurtures the land to produce organic and sustainably grown coffee beans. The flavour is mildly acidic, with a smooth body and nutty bouquet. Introduce yourself to this stimulating endeavour with a coffee tour in Matagalpa, where the setting is as satisfying as the brew.

The legacy that is Flor de Caña rum is, well, legend. Five generations of Nicaraguan distillers are behind this award-winning spirit, lauded with the Distillery Sustainability Award and the Ethical Award in 2021.

Explore more and head to visitanicaragua.com/en/ or call your preferred travel advisor

DISCOVER WONDER CLOSER TO HOME

Celebrate

Canada with an epic cruise on board Scenic Eclipse

RUGGED COASTLINES, welcoming people, diverse cultures. Canada offers a wealth of extraordinary experiences.

The east coast of our great land is especially intriguing, with its rich heritage, natural wonders and some of the friendliest people on Earth. A sailing on Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery Yachts™, can take you there. Make 2026 the year you explore this fascinating country we call home.

This is a land of firsts. Stroll the cobbled streets of Quebec City – established in 1608, it’s one of the original European settled cities in North America. It’s the only walled city north of Mexico and its Instagram-worthy citadel overlooks the majestic St. Lawrence River. The river itself is a noteworthy sail: 1200 kilometres connects

Canada’s Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you can spot the more than 40 traditional lighthouses sailors have been using for centuries to navigate this incredible waterway. In Charlottetown, relive and learn about the history of Canada’s Confederation – you’ll also be on the lands of the Mi’kmaq people, who still make their home on Prince Edward Island. It’s also the home of Anne of Green Gables, the beloved redhead heroine of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s books.

Nature is at her utmost best here. From the Bay of Fundy and its changing tides to Percé, Quebec, known for the iconic 85-metre Rocher Percé rock formation – and where you can witness more that 500 million years of our planet’s history – to Bonaventure Island, where more than 200,000 breeding birds take flight at North America’s largest migratory bird sanctuary.

The best part? Experience it all – and more – while sailing these waters on the ultra-luxury ocean cruiser, Scenic Eclipse, one of The World’s First Discovery Yachts™. It’s an all-inclusive luxury cruise, featuring Discovery excursions led by local guides and experts, to give you an immersive exploration of Canada’s wonders. On board, you’ll be treated to world-class dining, top-notch service and a level of intimacy only these ships can offer. With a maximum of 228 guests, each sailing feels like a bespoke tour, every detail is taken care of. All 114 suites offer a spacious sanctuary and private balconies from which to quietly watch the world go by.

The ship is an engineering marvel. As a Polar Class 6, Scenic Eclipse can navigate some of the world’s most challenging waters. In Canada’s near-Arctic, sail to Churchill, Manitoba, on the shores of Hudson Bay. Here, you will go on safari, and spot polar bears, one of Canada’s “big five.” It’s a lessertravelled destination, and a rare privilege – especially when you’re guided by some of the best local wildlife and history experts. Marvellous, indeed.

WHAT TO BOOK

Contrasts of Canada & the St. Lawrence River Code: 501Y

Celebrate Canada’s heritage and coastal beauty on a 12-day ultra-luxury voyage from Portland to Montréal aboard Scenic Eclipse. Journey through Atlantic Canada and the St. Lawrence River, visiting vibrant ports rich in history and spirit. From Percé’s cliffs to Québec City’s cobbled streets and Montréal’s culture, each stop offers a distinct Canadian experience. scenic.ca

Photo: Le Québec

Maritime/Marc Loiselle

The Quiet Side of Paradise

Exploring the lesser-travelled islands of Turks and Caicos, Meagan Drillinger finds a haven of quiet nature, deep history and culinary culture

Going for a paddle off the beach at Salterra, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, South Caicos

Photo: Agile LeVin / Courtesy of Visit Turks and Caicos Islands

TURKS AND CAICOS IS MADE up of some 40 low-lying islands and cays scattered like stepping stones southeast of the Bahamas. Fewer than a dozen are inhabited, with Providenciales (known as Provo) serving as the main hub for international arrivals, luxury resorts and the famous Grace Bay Beach. Yet beyond Provo’s polished veneer, the smaller islands reveal a different tone: quieter, more personal and deeply tied to history, culture and the sea.

From Providenciales, it’s a short hop to South Caicos, but the atmosphere feels a world apart. Known for its quiet streets, working dock and stretches of untouched coastline, South Caicos is where you trade the polished resort life for something more rooted in place. My introduction came on a sputtering speedboat skimming the shallow waters just offshore, the colours shifting every few seconds from clear to bands of aquamarine and turquoise. Suddenly, the sand fanned out in every direction, bright white and dotted with plump orange and purple starfish. This was Starfish Alley, a reminder that nature here doesn’t need staging. It just is.

A little farther on, we pulled up to Iguana Island, a slip of land where lizards scuttled between brush and driftwood. My guides, two young men who grew up on South Caicos, navigated with quiet confidence, pointing out fishing grounds and tidal changes with a casual cool. You can do five-star resorts with butler service and deeptissue massages. Or, you can do this.

South Caicos: Luxury

Reimagined

South Caicos was once the salt capital of Turks and Caicos. Its salt pans, carved into the land centuries ago, fuelled the economy and shaped the island’s identity. Today, two luxury resorts reinterpret that history while offering the kind of barefoot refinement travellers seek out in the Caribbean.

Sailrock Resort beachfront

villas; Gourmet seafood

salad at the beachfront Cove

Restaurant + Beach Bar

At Sailrock South Caicos, evenings begin with sea-to-table dinner set directly on the beach. Grilled snapper and conch arrive alongside local vegetables, the horizon glowing pink as the sun dips behind the water. Later, guests gather around a bonfire, roasting marshmallows under a sweep of stars against an inky black sky.

Salterra, the newest resort on the island, takes a different culinary approach. At Brine, the fine-dining restaurant, a five-course tasting menu is built around the island’s salt heritage, each dish paired with wines chosen to elevate the theme. It’s polished and inventive, but never strays far from its roots. On South Caicos, luxury isn’t about excess. It’s about a narrative tied to history, interpreted through food, space and design.

North & Middle Caicos: Nature and Wellness

If South Caicos shows how the islands reinterpret luxury, North and Middle Caicos reveal what it means to be entirely off-grid. Driving across the causeway, I passed limestone cliffs, open wetlands and stretches of mangroves where the only traffic was a pink cloud of flamingos.

Beaches here are expansive and empty. Whitby, Bambarra, Horse Stable – each more deserted than the last. Hours passed without a person in sight, and time was marked only by the rhythmic splashing of waves rolling playfully onto shore.

Cottage Pond, a round sinkhole framed by trees, offered a different kind of pause. Beneath its glassy surface lies a history that is still deeply felt: it was once a lifeline for the enslaved people brought to the island, who came here in secret to bathe and gather water. The pond remains a sacred place for their descendants today. It’s beautiful, yes, but also a reminder of survival and memory.

The Conch Bar Caves, a sprawl of limestone passages alive with stalactites and bats, hold their own stories. Guided tours are simple and inexpensive, yet stepping inside is like peeling back centuries. The caves once sheltered the Lucayan people, long before tourism arrived.

Here, wellness isn’t something structured. It’s a restoration that comes from quiet, standing in places where history, culture and nature converge.

Photographs: Courtesy of Turks and Caicos Tourism; Sailrock Resort; Ocean Blues Resort; Salterra Resort & Spa

Strolling, sailing and starfish – and lobster, as seen here on South Caicos, aka the lobster capital of the Turks and Caicos islands

Threads of Culture

Turks and Caicos culture reveals itself gradually, but its strongest thread is food. Conch is everywhere, and in every form: cracked and fried, blended into fritters, or served raw in a citrusy salad with peppers and onions. Stacks of pale pink conch shells piled high on docks and porches speak to its enduring importance.

Other flavours add to the story: jerk chicken with peas and rice, spiny lobster grilled in season, fresh fish pulled from the sea. Meals here are unpretentious, but they carry weight. Meals are how the islands express themselves.

Music offers another note of identity. Ripsaw, played by scraping a carpenter’s saw with a knife or fork, is uniquely Turks and Caicos. You hear it at festivals and gatherings, its raw rhythm as much about community as performance.

Why It Matters

Providenciales may be the gateway, but the smaller islands are where Turks and Caicos reveals its depth. South Caicos connects its salt-trading past to its future through culinary innovation. North and Middle remind travellers of the restorative power of space and silence. Throughout, culture runs quietly but firmly in food, music and memory.

For me, it was those moments beyond Provo that lingered: standing knee deep in bath-like water propped up on a sandbank hundreds of metres from shore, the taste of conch pulled fresh from the water, the plunk of live music at a roadside barbecue joint. Turks and Caicos is not about consuming more, but about connecting deeply. It’s a beautiful kind of luxury that feels more rare by the day. turksandcaicostourism.com

Ocean Blues Resort

“ Turks and Caicos is not about consuming more, but about connecting deeply. It's a beautiful kind of luxury that feels more rare by the day”

West Harbour Bluff (also known as Split Rock or Pirate's Cove) is a scenic area at the southwest point of Providenciales

Photos: Intrepid Travel; PromPeru; Lukas de Vries; Andy Salazar.

On a once-in-lifetime trip to Peru, Vivian Vassos makes the climb and pushes herself to the limit

Machu Picchu, one of the new seven wonders of the world

I'm

WALKING ALONG a narrow sidewalk, stone walls on one side, cars whipping past on the other, when suddenly a minivan comes to a screeching halt. The door slides open and out pours a group of young women, each more colourful than the last, dressed in the regalia of their local village. Reds, oranges, yellows and bright pinks are only matched by their flashing smiles. The air is instantly filled with the sound of their laughter and the perfume from the herbaceous posies that each clutches in their hands.

You see, it’s parade day in Cusco, celebrating military history and the younger cadets. But almost every day is parade day in this Peruvian city famed for its altitude (it’s about 3400 m above sea level, if you’re wondering) and the gateway to Peru’s Sacred Valley. School’s out? Let’s have a parade! Want to dress your dog up in your local costume, there’s a parade for that, too. All Saints day? Definitely a parade. There’s always a reason to dance and sing and to show off and share. Vendors are taking advantage of the crowds: popcorn, Jell-O pops, candies and all sorts of drinks and Peruvian delights imaginable are swinging from baskets and bags, adding to the colourful scene.

But I digress. I’ve come to Peru for a completely different reason. I’m taking Intrepid Travel’s Premium Walking and Hiking in Peru, to see the one of the new seven wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. It’s a small group tour, with a focus on Cusco, the Inca Trail and the mystical lost – and then found – city itself.

The flight is overnight, arriving at Lima, the capital, just as the sun is rising. The traffic is already humming, and on the drive along the city’s Pacific coastline, a few surfers are spotted taking the early morning waves. With more than 10 million people, Lima is full of energy, yet the proximity to this massive body of water also gives it a chill, west-coastal vibe. Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Andean mountains, it feels breezy like Vancouver, but with the hazy fog atmosphere of San Francisco.

At the village of Huilloc, I meet this Indigenous community’s gifted women weavers. I am mesmerized by those iconic Peruvian textiles – a kaleidoscope of colours woven into meaningful patterns that are so often associated with the country. The women are dressed from head to toe (hats included), the vibrant fabrics wrapped and shaped into jackets, skirts and ponchos in their traditional dress. They want to know everything about us, and speak to us through our guide Ale’s interpretations.

During a bracelet-weaving lesson, it starts to rain, and one of the women notices I’m shivering. She steps away for a moment and then brandishes a hand-woven shawl and wraps it around me, along with the matching skirt. Cultural appropriaton? I think not; is it any different than offering a shawl or blanket to a guest that’s feeling the chill? It’s her way of making her guest feel comfortable. I feel privileged that she would share her incredible works of handmade art so personally.

Plaza de Armas in Cusco, Peru, featuring a statue of the Inca ruler Pachacutec

My personal mission is to make sure I can sustain myself on the day-long hike on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. We board a charming, old-school train for a scenic ride from Ollantaytambo to our starting check point along the trail. The tracks follow the banks of the Urubamba River, through green-on-green fields and river views. There’s a live band on board, and we’re also treated to a reenactment of the tragic story of star-crossed lovers connected to the lore of the region.

“Just breathe.” Our guide Ale is repeating this like a mantra, reminding us as we climb to keep our lungs full of energy-giving oxygen. Walking poles are extremely helpful on this mostly uphill trek; my legs and my lungs still feel the burn. Although I wouldn’t say it’s necessary to “train” for the hike, I would recommend being confident in your fitness abilities – and taking altitude sickness precautions before you embark on the journey.

After more than seven hours, 15 kilometres and 23,000 steps, my goal has been met: I arrive at the top, the trail’s end, catch my breath and stride through the circle of the Sun Gate. The sun is slowly setting, and the wonder of Machu Picchu is sprawling just below. peru.travel/en/; intrepidtravel.com/ca

(Below) Cusco spreads across the hills, with every narrow, winding alley revealing a new view; (opposite) At Huilloc

A freshly prepared meal from AMA, an all-inclusive, triple-impact social enterprise in Urubamba, Cusco, helps support vulnerable communities including single mothers, people with disabilities and female Andean weavers through its Alpaca Boutique, restaurant and regenerative tourism experiences.

Stewards of Locavorism

Peru should be on every slow foodie traveller’s list. Lima, the country’s capital, has two of the top 10 restaurants (Maido, at number one, and Kjolle at number nine), according to The World’s 50 Best list. Asian fusion from more than 100 years of Chinese and Japanese immigration is a major influencer. Nikkei cuisine, an amalgamation of Japanese techniques mixed with Peruvian ingredients, is unique to Peru. But they grow nearly everything here: Chefs countrywide work fresh fish into citrusy ceviche, stir-fries of lomo saltado (beef, onions, tomatoes and bell peppers, with rice and French fries), and the layered potato dish causa, are staples worth savouring. All the better to fortify you for the hike up the Inca Trail to the marvel that is Machu Picchu. theworlds50best.com

WHEN YOU GO: Air Transat flies nonstop from Toronto to Lima and you can also fly Air Transat from Montreal (there are two direct flights per week from both cities). I recommend booking Transat’s Club Class, for priority checkin and boarding and where all the extra-roomy seats, the most spacious in this premium class, are either an aisle or a window. Meals are wellprepared and the comfort kit is handy, with all the usual suspects – toothbrush, socks, hand cream, etc. – and you get to keep the blanket. transat.com/en

Whispers of the Caribbean

Island life unfolds on the quieter shores of St. Vincent and the Grenadines

By Vawn Himmelsbach

Photographs: SVG Tourism Authority

Snorkelling off Canouan Island

SITTING AT A “SECRET” rum shack high on the forested hills overlooking Bequia’s Admiralty Bay, I’m dotting the local hot sauce on my fresh lobster lunch. This is the kind of place where you can call the number on the back of the bottle of Auntie Sue’s Hot Pepper Sauce, and Auntie Sue actually picks up.

And then Auntie Sue arranges to have her friend’s teenage son meet you at the end of the half-kilometre-long foot path through the rainforest – the only way to get to the Tree House Bush Bar – with a bag full of hot sauce, for $5 a pop.

Bequia is the largest island in the Grenadines (though, at 18 square kilometres, you could technically walk it in a day). Reminiscent of the 1950s West Indies, it remains relatively untouched by development. Of the Grenadines’ 32 islands and cays, only eight are inhabited, and some consider St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) to be one of the last untouched corners of the Caribbean.

“We don’t suffer from depression, we just head to the ocean,” says Quency Lewis with Foreign Tours SVG, during a tour of St. Vincent.

On the mainland, rainforests are filled with tropical birds, possums, mongooses and iguanas. Gardens bloom with lilies, birds of paradise, hibiscus and red dragons. There are 305 waterfalls on St. Vincent alone and 30 different types of mango.

The Grenadines have long catered to visitors – from fly-in billionaires to celebs and royalty (Princess Margaret had a getaway on the exclusive island of Mustique). But St. Vincent was traditionally focused on agriculture. Bananas, in particular.

“It used to be people would come here and go straight to the Grenadines. They didn’t spend any time here,” says Lewis. “But that’s changing.”

There are a few reasons for that. One is the Argyle International Airport (and more direct flights from Canada). While the airport isn’t exactly new – it opened in 2017 – SVG’s tourism industry was hit hard by

The Tobago Cays’ crystal-clear lagoons, white-sand beaches and coral reefs make this marine park a favourite for yachting, snorkelling and diving.

Soho Beach House Canouan

and is still closed to visitors as it rebuilds. Union Island is also rebuilding.

While nearby Canouan also suffered significant damage, it’s back to business as usual for some of SVG’s most opulent resorts, including the Mandarin Oriental Canouan and Soho Beach House Canouan.

When You Go

GETTING AROUND: It’s easy to island hop with SVG’s ferries, fast ferries and water taxis, but you could always charter a private yacht instead. Local carrier SVG Air also connects St. Vincent with the Grenadine islands.

WHERE TO STAY: Sandals’ newest all-inclusive resort, located on the island of St. Vincent, is what the company calls a “bold leap into Sandals 2.0,” with the debut of numerous brand firsts. For example, Scrimshaw is a new dining concept for Sandals, with a “dock-todish” menu that taps into the island’s location on the coastal shelf. Guests can lounge by the signature 300-foot linear pool, also a Sandals first, or get their heart pumping with a guided kayak tour to the Buccament bat caves, directly accessible from the resort. sandals.com/saint-vincent

WHAT TO BUY: Grenadine Wild Sea Salt is harvested through the solar evaporation of sea salt from the pristine Caribbean waters around Bequia. Located in a historic sugar mill, this artisanal producer offers tours, tastings and a café.

Yabba pot rice, grilled whole fish and charred tomato and watermelon boli are authentic Vincentian dishes served family-style at Buccan, Sandals St. Vincent’s open-flame restaurant celebrating local cuisine.

the Covid-19 pandemic, the eruption of La Soufrière in 2021 and Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which slowed the flow of tourists.

Another reason is the opening of the mainland’s first all-inclusive resort. Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, tucked away in its own private cove, has brought more attention to the mainland as a Caribbean destination. And, according to Sandals, it’s an evolution of the brand with several “firsts,” including a dining scene and off-the-resort activities that reflect the island’s landscapes and heritage.

On a jeep safari, ATV excursion or cycling tour with a local operator like Foreign Tours SVG, you can explore secluded waterfalls, discover hidden black-sand beaches or even hike up La Soufrière. And you won’t be doing it with thousands of other tourists.

While SVG has made great strides in recovering from 2021’s volcanic eruption, the nation suffered another gut-punch last year when Hurricane Beryl barrelled through the Grenadines. Palm Island, home to Palm Island Resort & Spa, suffered serious damage

Soho House has 42 houses, or private members’ clubs, around the world. To become a member you need to qualify as a “creative.” But Soho Beach House Canouan is the first (and only) in the portfolio that’s open to non-members, where you can soak up the chic beach house vibe with its reclaimed timber and vintage rattan furniture – and still feel like you’re on a private retreat.

It’s all about disconnecting: there are no TVs in the rooms, and you can only get here by boat (or private jet). While here, be sure to arrange a private dinner on the jetty at sunset, and book a local walkabout tour around town.

If you can manage to drag yourself from the beach, Canouan is surrounded by one of the Caribbean’s largest living coral reefs. It’s a quick boat ride from Canouan to Tobago Cays – home of SVG’s national marine park –with five palm-fringed cays, horseshoe-shaped coral reefs and some of the best sailing waters in the world. Here, you can snorkel with sea turtles in the 1,400-acre lagoon and then feast on grilled lobster in bare feet on the sandy cay of Petit Rameau.

While SVG is no longer a secret Caribbean escape for fly-in billionaires, it still retains a low profile (and an exclusive one). But you can still stumble upon experiences –like buying Auntie Sue’s hot sauce from the source – that will give you a true taste of the local culture. discoversvg.com

WHERE TO HAVE A DRINK: Only accessible by dinghy, a private yacht or a vigorous swim, Bar One is a floating bar in Bequia’s Admiralty Bay with good music, great cocktails and even better sunsets. You can catch the dinghy from Princess Margaret Beach.

DON’T MISS: This Caribbean nation comes alive during SVG Sailing Week, typically held in March or April, with world-class racing, cultural festivities, live music and local cuisine – it’s an adventure, whether you’re competing or cheering from shore.

Dark View Falls

Sandal’s overwater villas

THE MANA SPIRIT

Say oui to The Islands of Tahiti

WHEN ONE THINKS OF The Islands of Tahiti, there’s an element of romance that comes to mind. From Mutiny on the Bounty to spirited Tiki culture to epic journeys of voyagers in hand-carved outriggers navigating around one of the most remote group of atolls on earth to fearless surfers who took on the mythic Teahupo’o wave and took home Olympic gold, these islands evoke a vision that invites one to want to explore.

And then there’s the sea. Turquoise, azure, cerulean – shades of blue so infinite, its only rival is the sky. With the surface area of French Polynesia being almost 99 per cent

water, you can’t help but feel the magnetic pull of the ocean. It is the great connector of the country’s 118 islands and atolls. Imagine snorkelling in and around striking coral gardens, with an abundance of sea life all around you. On Bora Bora, floating among the marine life at the coral gardens near Motu Pitiuu Uta is a life-changing experience. The utter magnificence of this underwater sanctuary defies description, the colours and varieties of coral competing with its sea life residents’ for best in show. The coral gardens at Taha’a is great for novice snorkellers, but for more experienced divers, drift snorkeling and more challenging depths can be had at the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Fakarava or near the impressive atoll of Rangiroa and the Tuamotu Archipelago.

The sea is what draws us, but first a visit to the capital of Papeete on the island of Tahiti. The international hub is a metropolis featuring some of the destination’s best chefs cooking up delicious local food with a French twist, shopping for traditional goods at the city markets – including the world-renowned Tahitian pearls – a burgeoning music scene and a globally recognized cruise port. From here, you can board a luxury yacht, a classic masted sailing ship or even charter your own catamaran and follow the path of ancient Polynesian explorers who would ply these waters in massive outriggers, island hopping along the way. Water-sports enthusiasts can take a kayak and go for a paddle through the calm waters of many of the islands’ uncrowded lagoons or catch a cultural event, where locals

Photos: Grégoire Le Bacon, David Kirkland, Steve Dickinson, Bernard Beaussier

MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE

celebrate the lore of the traditional outrigger canoe and the knowledge of navigation passed down through generations.

Weigh anchor in one of dozens of crystal clear lagoons, head ashore to experience the local culture, explore a museum or simply take a dip in water at a temperature so warm and welcoming, your body will thank you. Your whole being will immediately relax and let go; it’s a thalassotherapy of a different kind. The shallows are teeming with marine life, and it is here that you can swim with blacktip reef sharks free of worry. Shy and harmless, these handsome creatures glide effortlessly through the shallows, sharing their water world home with countless species of colourful fish.

Hike the trails on Mo’orea, a volcanic island that is part of the Society Islands chain. It’s resplendent with tropical forests and a view of Tahiti in the distance, and is a port of call for many cruise ships. Rest your head in the lap of luxury on Bora Bora, where you can pull up to a private dock at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts, The Four

Seasons or The Conrad, stunning over-water bungalows included.

Keeping this slice of paradise whole for the generations to come is at the heart of the islands’ conservation efforts. Raiatea is known as “the sacred island” due to its ages-old connection to Polynesian religion and culture. Its archaeological significance still fascinates history lovers with its expansive stone plazas and carved sculptures. In Polynesian culture, it is considered the home of the gods, and in 2017, the site, or Marae Taputapuatea was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spend a little time on a few of the lesser-known islands, such as Huahine. Part of the Society Islands, it is home to an underwater kaleidoscope of coral gardens, well-walked hiking trails that take you to secluded waterfalls and natural pools and welcoming traditional villages, where one can be immersed in history and Tahitian and Polynesian culture.

All thriving and making one of the most unique and exceptional places in the world, The Islands of Tahiti, their home.

PAUL GAUGUIN cruise ships operate in the waters of French Polynesia. The Paul Gauguin has a seven night, luxury cruise to the Society Islands, and a 14 night cruise that also includes the Marquesas and Tuamotu Islands. Windstar’s small ship cruises have been sailing these waters for more than 35 years; it’s also the perfect honeymoon getaway. And don’t forget the Aranui, a hybrid passenger-and-cargo vessel with a full Polynesian crew that carries travellers and supplies to some of the most remote islands in French Polynesia.

AIR TAHITI NUI offers flights to the destination for international travellers with a unique Polynesian influence and flare onboard. Once on island, inter-island flights are available to visitors via AIR MOANA and AIR TAHITI, with special flight passes being offered to help make travel more seamless and efficient for visitors to French Polynesia. tahititourisme.ca

CRUISING THE WORLD

The voyages our writers are taking — and why this is the moment to plan your own odyssey

Coe Sail Away

Welcome to BOLD Traveller’s annual inspiration to the best in cruise travel, including a few fabulous ports of call. We can’t help it – we’re fans. The beauty of a cruise is twofold: you unpack once and visit many places – think Trinidad this morning, Barbados tomorrow, St. Lucia the next – and this form of travel gives you a chance to have a taste of many destinations, which can help you decide whether you return to those places to explore them further. Enjoy, and get ready to set sail By Vivian Vassos

NEW TO CRUISE? NO WORRIES, WE’VE GOT YOU. According to the 2025 CLIA report, first-time cruisers are driving growth in the industry. In fact, 31 per cent of passengers in the past two years were new to cruising. So, for those of you who are ready for an adventure at sea, allow us to present you with our guide to cruise newcomers.

Chances are if you’re a first time cruiser, you may also be a first time visitor to the embarkation and disembarkation cities. Many cruise lines offer a day or two early in port and extended port visits at the end of a cruise – and almost all river cruise lines. Take advantage of those offers –and regardless, always try to arrive in your embarkation city a day early. It’s worth the time and the investment, as with all the flight delays these days, you’ll be happy you’re on board without the rush from the airport. Speaking of flights, if you’re thinking of an expedition cruise, where

departures could be dependent on the weather, book your flights with the cruise line. If you’re stuck, for example, in Antarctica with very limited flight choices, the cruise line will be responsible for getting you in or out and making sure you have a place to stay while you wait. Many cruise lines are offering to book flights as part of the package and some even offer deep discounts or free flights.

If you’re a fan of luxury hotels, take a look at cruise lines such as Explora Journeys, and ships launched by Ritz-Carlton, Aman and Four Seasons. Accor, the group that operates Fairmont properties, is also putting a new ship – Orient Express Corinthian – in the water next year. If you’re also a fan of theme parks or needing a variety of things to do (multi-gen and family travel comes to mind), take a look at the ship-within-a-ship concept of MSC’s Yacht Club and The Haven from Norwegian Cruise Lines. Both are like a floating boutique hotel with private areas, concierge and butler services and dedicated dining. But

Photo: Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

you still have access to the over waterslide, the live theatres and the full-on vibe of a ship with thousands of people on vacation. At the end of the night, you can retreat to the peace of your exclusive getaway. If you’re a digital nomad or have time to spend, take a look at some of the river cruise lines longer-sailing itineraries. Since many of the rivers of Europe connect or cut through a host of countries, it’s easy to get on board in Amsterdam and head all the way to Bucharest on the Danube; there also many cruises that offer a deeper dive in to one country, say AmaWaterways on the Seine. Many offer two or even three different rivers over 14 and 21 days or more, and again most offer pre-and post-cruise excursions. Scenic River Cruises combines the Rhine and the Moselle (the wine alone is worth the sail).

If you’re investment shy, but still want to give it a try: ‘Wave’ season, the cruise industry’s term for off-peak travel, offers the best deals. And with temperatures staying mild well into November in Europe, there’s deals to be had and less crowds, well, to deal with. April, May and June offer great deals for the Caribbean. Speak to a travel agent or an agent with the cruise lines you’re considering. No question is a stupid question; booking the right cruise could make or break your trip.

WHAT TO BOOK: With chef-driven culinary programs, thoughtful wellness initiatives and each ship kitted out with a marina that links you directly with the water, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a floating luxury hotel. Three ships are currently sailing: Evrima, Ilma and Luminaria; right now we’re dreaming of a Pacific cruise in Tahiti. Seven nights on the Evrima, round trip from Papeete, including stops at Bora Bora and Mo’orea. ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com

Culinary Cruising

If you’ve got a craving for experiencing a culture through its food, what better way to do it than to take a cruise with a top Canadian chef? Emerald Yacht Cruises has announced its latest specialty culinary voyage: the Mediterranean, hosted by celebrated Canadian chef Michael Bonacini and his son Oscar, on the spectacular yacht, Emerald Sakara. “Exploring the Western Mediterranean by sea is the perfect way to celebrate food, culture and connection,” says Bonacini. “From the markets of Marseille to the kitchens of Rome, each port reveals a story told through its ingredients. Sharing these flavours and traditions alongside my son, Oscar, is an experience I’m truly looking forward to – one that blends discovery, creativity and the simple joy of gathering around the table.”

Emerald Cruises’ A Taste of the Mediterranean departs Rome Civitavecchia on August 22, 2026 and over eight days includes stops at Nice, Cannes and Marseilles. emeraldcruises.ca/offers/yacht/ michael-bonacini-journey

Cruising by the Numbers

According to the travel advisors at Virtuoso, when it comes to cruising, Canadians are climbing aboard

THESE ARE THE TOP CRUISE ITINERARIES FOR CANADIANS:

1 Mediterranean

2 Danube River

3 Alaska

(See page 52 for our story)

4 Caribbean

(See our stories on page 58 for Roatan, page 25 for Turks and Caicos and page 37 for St. Vincent)

5 Greek Isles

6 Northern Europe

7 Japan

8 Antarctica (See page50 for our story)

9 Rhine River

10 Galápagos Islands

Of the TOP 10 TRAVEL TRENDS for Canadians, ocean cruising (3), river cruising (6) and expedition cruising (9) all made the list.

20%

of travellers ranked GO ON A CRUISE in their TOP 5 “TYPES OF TRIPS”

Japan continues to capture attention across multiple categories, placing in the top five global destinations and making the top 10 for family travel, solo travel and cruises. This growing desire to sidestep overtourism has become the top aspect of sustainable travel, with increasing interest in Greenland’s serene fjords, Iceland’s volcanic scenery and Antarctica’s vast ice fields. All of these parts of the world are easily explored via cruising. virtuoso.com

Smart Cruise Essentials

Gratuities: $10–12/day for stateroom staff

Room service fees: Check before ordering

Wi-Fi: Most ships charge; plan ahead Transfers: Some included, some not – make sure you confirm

BEHIND EVERY EFFORTLESS CRUISE is a travel expert who knows the ships, the seasons and the subtle differences that make all the difference. Advisors who have sailed the routes themselves can match your passion for wine to a Douro itinerary, your sense of adventure to Alaska, or your craving for holiday magic to a December Rhine sailing. They’ll also guide you on the timing of travel, suggest pre- or post-cruise extensions, and point out cabins that offer the perfect vantage point. Their insights ensure your journey is not only memorable but also mindful and purposeful. Ask your travel advisor about early-booking perks or loyalty programmes that unlock upgrades and onboard credits. The most unforgettable voyages often come from small, intentional choices. Dine ashore one evening in a tiny local taverna. Cycle along the Danube at your own pace. Gather friends or family to share the adventure. And if spontaneity calls, keep your passport ready –sometimes the best experiences are the ones booked last minute, when the sea itself seems to extend an invitation. —Liz Fleming

SAIL YOUR WAY

Explore the many ways a trip with Emerald Yacht Cruises can expand your horizons while cruising in the lap of luxury

WHEN YOU SAIL

WITH Emerald Yacht Cruises, you’ll discover that there’s a voyage for every passion and interest. Love food? We have trips that will feed you. Is history your passion? We will fill your head and your heart with centuries of knowledge – much of it delivered by our local guides who have spent their lifetimes sharing their enthusiasm for their homes. Want to know more about the local customs? Our journeys can take you deeper into the lore and traditions of

every port we visit. A cruise on any one of our beautifully designed Emerald Yachts – Emerald Azzurra, Emerald Sakara and, launching in 2026, Emerald Kaia – will inspire you to indulge in your passions, and stoke your curiosity. Imagine having the opportunity to take a path less-travelled, guided by an expert who has grown up with their own passion for hospitality, walked their village streets and are excited to share their experiences with you. Maybe it’s a local favourite restaurant or perhaps a secret shopping street. This is luxury you can feel. Emerald’s handpicked itineraries will take you to iconic places and reveal hidden gems

across the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. How does a tasting in a sun-warmed vineyard on a Greek Island sound? Or a leisurely moment in a cafe by the seaside in Rovinj, Croatia, where you can relax and admire the pastel harbour.

The best part? Our yachts are so sleek, we can sidle up to nearly every port we visit. It’s as easy as lacing up your best walking shoes, walking down the ramp and finding yourself in the heart of many of the coastal towns where we make stops.

The experience on board is just as exceptional. The ships’ luxurious suites are spacious with plenty of room for two and

come with private balconies and amenitystocked bathrooms. Dining on our yachts are events in themselves; chefs endeavour to serve the freshest ingredients, many sourced from local farmers’ markets and fishing villages. Prefer to dine al fresco? It’s your choice, but you can take breakfast, lunch and dinner on our dining decks.

Like a floating boutique hotel, our yachts all feature infinity swimming pools, casual dining outlets and full-service roof-top bars (or top-deck bars in this case) and lounges for the perfect perch for a sundowner cocktail. Our Amici lounge is always buzzing – whether for a cocktail demonstration by our talented mixologists, or a trivia night with our hosts, there’s never a dull moment on board.

But when you want to take a moment, there are quiet spaces too. Take our observation lounge. At the front of the boat, it features coffee, tea, snacks and a library, and comfortable seating for contemplation and a view of where we’re going next. And our excellent staff-to-guest ratio allows us to be attentive at a moment’s notice. Sounds like a trip of a lifetime.

With Emerald, you’ll find a yacht cruise that’s perfect for you.

WHAT TO BOOK:

French & Italian Rivieras with Corsica

Code: E01M

Perfect for: food enthusiasts

Savour the flavours of the Mediterranean on the French & Italian Rivieras with Corsica, an 8-day culinary journey. From the seaside charm of Calvi to the coastal gems of Marina di Carrara and Porto Venere, discover local delicacies and fresh coastal cuisine in Cannes and Livorno, all while sailing in effortless luxury. emeraldcruises.ca/tours

Caribbean Yachting Hideaways

Code: E17J

Perfect for: sunseekers

Chase the sunshine on Caribbean Yachting Hideaways, an 8-day island-hopping escape. Soak up the laid-back charm of St. John’s, unwind on the pristine shores of Jost Van Dyke, and stroll the colourful streets of San Juan – all from the comfort of your luxury yacht. emeraldcruises.ca/tours

Greek Islands & Turkish Coastlines

Code: E08G

Perfect for: culture explorers

Step into history on the Greek and Turkish Coastlines, an 8-day voyage through ancient lands and sun-drenched shores. Wander the sacred island of Patmos, tour the legendary ruins of Ephesus, and explore Kos’s Asclepion and charming Zia village with a local winery visit. From Athens to Santorini, each stop offers a rich blend of culture, history and beauty. emeraldcruises.ca/tours

Discover the Best of the Croatian Coast Code: 2D12

Perfect for: a longer escape in paradise

Unwind over 15 days of Adriatic elegance on Discover the Best of the Croatian Coast. From the medieval charm of Dubrovnik to the pastel harbours of Rovinj and the vibrant energy of Split, this extended voyage is a true celebration of culture, coastlines and relaxation. emeraldcruises.ca/tours

SHIP REVIEW

The MSC World America

By Erin Nicole Davis

AMERICA, the ethos that bigger is better is often the norm. Appropriately, MSC Cruise’s new, 6,762-passenger MSC World America cruise ship offers larger-than-life experiences through its seven immersive districts as it sails the Caribbean. This means everything from ultra-private five-star dinners and a gin-themed bar to a massive LED dome and a heart-pumping overwater swing.

It was time for Switzerland-based MSC Cruises to fuse European sophistication with a North American-inspired mentality. This message was driven home at the sleek ship’s April 2025 launch, which featured a splashy ribbon-cutting ceremony with beloved Hollywood icon Drew Barrymore.

“Canadian guests have praised the ship for blending the comfort that they appreciate with the sophisticated European style that MSC Cruises is known for,” says Ian Patterson, Country Manager of MSC Cruises Canada. “Its innovative design, world-class entertainment and diverse dining options have made it a standout choice for Canadians seeking a fresh, immersive way to experience the Caribbean.”

Upon boarding, MSC World America’s notably high energy is impossible to ignore. It contrasts the quieter vibe on MSC Cruise’s luxurious and more intimate Explora Journeys fleet, my foray into the cruising world. I knew to expect as much; MSC World America is of the “floating city” cruise ship variety. And it wears this designation like a badge of honour.

Building on its sister ship, MSC World Europa (est. 2022), MSC World America’s seven districts offer completely different vibes – from the shops at the Galleria to the twisting waterslides at the Aqua Deck and themed game nights in the Family Aventura district. The ship’s new additions, like the All-Star Sports Bar, filled with televisions, interactive games – and beer, naturally – as well as The Loft comedy club, make North Americans feel more at home.

Ironically, given its North American focus, one of the ship’s most talked-about features is its 94-seat Eataly restaurant – the first at sea for the Italian-based, internationally renowned market-style eatery. A meal here comes with a side of sea views, best enjoyed on the seaside terrace. Diners can expect comforting menu items, like creamy burrata, Ozaki Wagyu beef carpaccio, seafood risotto and roasted suckling pig. Crafted on board, Eataly’s famous tagliatelle, mandilli and tonnarelli pastas and pizzas remain menu staples. Only at this Eataly will you find the black truffle tagliatelle and a breaded veal chop.

Meanwhile, if you’re craving Greek food, the seafood-forward Paxos Greek Restaurant features a fresh fish counter. Spots like Kaito Sushi Bar, Kaito Teppanyaki, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse and Latin street food-inspired spot Hola! Tacos & Cantina round out a broad dining spectrum. For dessert, the milkshakes at Sweet Temptations and cotton candy from Promenade Bites are difficult to pass up.

The ship’s 20 bars are a world of their own, each with a distinct character. The Masters of the Sea British pub and microbrewery features a new range of beers from brewmaster Teo Musso; The Gin Project offers 20 craft gins and unique G&Ts; and craft cocktail spot Elixir serves up social media-worthy creations (my favourite is the strawberry daiquiri). A sultry speakeasy beckons – ask for an invitation and look for an iconic British symbol to spot its entrance.

Places like the adults-only Zen Area or the wellness-forward Botanical Garden Pool, where whirlpools are covered with canopies of greenery, offer peace and quiet. So does the Aurea Spa, with its expansive thermal suite. To really splurge in the serenity department, the luxurious MSC Yacht Club is an exclusive ship-within-a-ship escape, with butler service, gourmet private dining and a private pool. Clearly, each day can bring a completely different experience. This means everything from rowdy pool parties, casino wins and late-night karaoke sessions to elegant eveningwear, a large-scale Dirty Dancing musical and bubbly at the Champagne bar. The challenge is keeping up with the ship’s boundless energy as you cram it all in. msccruises.ca

CARIBBEAN SOPHISTICATION, DELIVERED BY MSC

Sail the French Antilles and Southern Caribbean with MSC Cruises in 2025–2026. Explore top itineraries, ports of call and onboard experiences

WHAT IS IT ABOUT SAILING the Caribbean that holds a place in our collective travel hearts?

A diverse destination with rich history, worldclass beaches and culinary delights inspired by by European and Caribbean traditions, all just a short flight from home. From celebrations to festivals to national holidays, these islands are always exciting to visit – especially when MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise line, can take you there.

Joining the Meraviglia Plus Class group of ships in 2021, (alongside MSC Grandiosa and the newer MSC Euribia, launched in 2023)

MSC Virtuosa, what the cruise line is calling a “Masterpiece at Sea,” features the stunning Galleria Virtuosa – one of the longest promenades at sea – 112 metres of stunning LED dome ceiling that is a natural gathering place and social hub of the ship.

Cruising the Caribbean with MSC Cruises is, well, truly a breeze. MSC Virtuosa also offers its guests the opportunity to upgrade to MSC Yacht Club, the company’s “ship-within-a-ship” concept. An exclusive area of the ship that is private, this floating boutique hotel, complete with concierge and butler services and private dining, is what MSC Yacht Club is all about. It is perfect for those who are seeking a retreat, but still want the excitement and energy of bigship cruising.

In the fall of 2025 and into winter of 2026, MSC Virtuosa will spend her days sailing the best of the Southern Caribbean. Think the French Antilles (Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Martin/Sint Maarten and St Barth’s), and the Lesser Antilles, with the British-influenced Barbados, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Saint Lucia.

With five swimming pools, the 19deck MSC Virtuosa has everything a water enthusiast would need – dip a toe, swim a few laps, join in one of the laugh-out-loud trivia games run by on-board hosts around the pool, just chill – or try the hydrotherapy circuit at Aurea, the onboard spa. Book a table at one of the 10 restaurants, try a new cocktail or simply sip Champagne at one of the 21 bars and lounges – and stop by the brand-new MSC Starship Club, only on MSC Virtuosa, where you’ll be served by the world’s first futuristic humanoid robotic bartender, affectionately known as Rob. We say cheers to that.

WHAT TO BOOK

Antilles: A Top Choice for Canadians with MSC Cruises

The French Antilles are a favourite for Canadians, note the cruise itinerary experts at MSC Cruises. This winter, MSC Cruises invites guests to sail the jewels of the Southern Caribbean with 7- or 14-night itineraries onboard MSC Virtuosa, departing from Fort-de-France (Martinique), Pointe-à-Pitre (Guadeloupe), or Bridgetown (Barbados). Two,

one week-long itineraries can be combined for a 14-night immersive experience.

Southern Caribbean Treasures (7 nights): embark in either Fort-de-France in Martinique, Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe or Bridgetown, Barbados, and make stops including Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, Saint Lucia and Grenada.

Eastern Caribbean Favourites (7 nights): embark in Fort-de-France or Pointe-à-Pitre, then onward to ports of call including Tortola, BVI, Philipsburg, St. Maarten, St. John’s, Antigua & Barbuda, Basseterre and St Kitts & Nevis.

Set sail for the Caribbean with MSC Cruises and experience the vibrant cultures and spectacular landscapes of the French Antilles. Whether you’re planning a week of adventure or a two-week island-hopping journey, book your Southern Caribbean cruise today at msccruises.ca

EXPEDITION

Polar Eclipse

While sailing to Antarctica, Lynn Elmhirst discovers where luxury meets the last frontier

As for many world travellers,

MY FIRST EXPEDITION CRUISE TO Antarctica allowed me to check off that box: travel to all seven continents.

But that “bucket list” approach doesn’t do justice to the world’s most remote continent. The privilege of being one of the few humans who will ever set foot on Antarctica. The thrill of a polar, marine “safari” and seeing Antarctic wildlife in their natural setting – completely unphased by humans. The anticipation of extreme, dramatic, icy scenery – almost like being on another planet.

On this cruise, I felt like an adventurer, a true explorer. I was not, however, roughing it.

Scenic Eclipse is one of a new breed of ships for polar exploration: luxury, small expedition ships. What you see is a sexy, sleek, megayacht that is home to just 200 guests on this journey. Contemporary, urban, boutique-hotel design with plenty of quartz, marble and black glass. Ten dining experiences, including a “Night Market” of elevated, global street food, a fine dining French restaurant with its own Champagne bar, pan-Asian and family-style Italian cuisine, even 24-hour room service served by my white-gloved butler.

It was completely surreal opening my suite curtains in the morning to find the ship

surrounded by mesmerizingly blue icebergs the size of many city blocks, serenely floating by. Or eating sushi while watching penguins hopping onto ice floes alongside the ship.

We sailed from Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city on earth, to the “White Continent.” It’s a two-day crossing of the notoriously-rough Drake Passage. They say that the crossing can go one of two ways: “Drake Lake” or “Drake Shake.”

You’ll know it’s going to be bad, the crew joked, if you see the barmen taking the bottles down from the floor-to-ceiling, back-lit whisky bar in the lounge. Luckily, no cocktail

interruptus for us! And that was just the tip of the proverbial iceberg of an expedition where good fortune shone upon us.

Where we sail, what to do every day, are dictated by conditions and Scenic’s Discovery Team’s knowledge of where to find nesting penguin colonies, or secluded bays to kayak through calved icebergs, or herds of immense elephant seals and their young basking on the beach, or a landing zone for us to step ashore on actual, mainland Antarctica, where we each got to “plant” a symbolic Antarctic flag.

Off we’d go in zodiacs to shore, to climb snowy hills to watch – at a safe and responsible distance – as Adelie and Gentoo penguins tended their rocky nests and eggs, with the Discovery Team’s ornithologist pointing out how we can tell different penguins apart and how they gather stones for their nests. Or join the barman collecting pure, black chunks of iceberg ice to use in cocktails on the ship, and talk with the team’s ice expert about how centuries of environmental data is stored inside Antarctic ice.

Every day was full of new surprises and adventures – with Scenic Eclipse’s two extraordinary expedition ‘toys’ delivering over-the-top memories. The ship is equipped with two helicopters, and a submarine. Other Antarctic cruises explore exclusively from the surface of the water and shore. Scenic’s helicopter and submarine tours offer a completely different perspective: over and under the waves.

It was from the air, flying over icebergs, glaciers and ice-capped mountains, along with views of the underwater depths, where I realized just how colourful the so-called White Continent really is. Pools on top of icebergs blazed a turquoise that would put the Caribbean to shame. And who knew there were dinner-plate-sized red starfish on the ocean floor under all that ice?

One moment even brought tears to my eyes.

Scenic’s Discovery Team told me how, for years, they’d been working on a plan to transport guests via helicopter to see a colony of Emperor penguins in the Weddell Sea.

Emperor penguins are the largest in the world, with distinctive sunny neck markings. Only Emperors live their entire lives on sea ice, so they are far less accessible than other penguins who come on shore. The sighting of a single, random Emperor penguin was an “all hands on deck” moment on any Antarctic voyage.

We would need exactly the right conditions to get the ship close enough, in extended favourable weather. Luckily, the stars aligned. I was in the first helicopter, landing on the ice over a kilometre away from the colony so we wouldn’t disturb them. That didn’t stop the curious and completely unafraid – and huge, right up to my shoulder – Emperor penguins from coming up to us, even as we backed away to maintain a responsible, minimum six-foot distance.

It was like an out-of-body experience. And after a kilometre trek through knee-deep snow, the big reveal: a 500-strong colony of Emperor penguins – with their adorable, fluffy grey babies! An overwhelming spectacle of nature that took my breath away and cemented Antarctica as not just my seventh –but also my most life-changing – continent.

WHEN YOU GO:

Scenic Eclipse has the highest polar class rating for passenger ships. Its reinforced hull can soundly plow through first-year ice. A GPS dynamic positioning system and ice-rated propellers allow the ship to sail stealthily, and hold position without having to drop anchor (avoiding damage to the seabed), and custombuilt stabilizers smoothly navigate rough seas. scenic.ca/ocean

Dancing with whales, flirting with eagles

TA

luxury cruise due north along BC’s Pacific coast to the wilds of Alaska offers the best of both worlds By Toby Saltzman

HE ULTIMATE BEAUTY OF CRUISING Alaska with Regent Seven Seas Cruise’s Seven Seas Explorer is that the ship is a destination as much as the land itself. W hether you prefer lounging on deck to inhale the pine-scented freshness of coastal forests to kayaking among glacial ice floes or searching for wildlife on whalewatching ship expeditions, the ship combines phenomenal experiences with superlative hospitality and cuisine.

No matter how rugged your Alaskan adventure – from rainforest trek to glacier hike – you return from the wild to the

sublime comfort of Seven Seas Explorer and your cushy suite, a hallmark of Regent, which prides itself on being “the world’s leading ultra-luxury cruise line.”

Designed with elegant accoutrements from the 2,500-piece art collection –including works by Picasso, Miro and Chagall – to the dazzling chandelier illuminating the grand double staircase swirling to the lobby, the all-suite 750-guest ship exudes residential luxury throughout. Even the smallest suite features a marble bathroom with twin sinks, shower and tub, plus an in-suite bar stocked with choice liquors and wine.

A multitude of dining experiences

include complimentary wines in all restaurants, from Compass Rose to the ship’s excellent specialty restaurants: French Chartreuse, pan-Asian Pacific Rim and Prime 7 steakhouse. La Veranda serves abundant buffets for breakfast and lunch and transitions to Sette Mari Italian trattoria in evenings.

Cruising north from Vancouver through the Inside Passage, I stay on deck for the mesmerizing scenery dotted with coastal villages and fat bears plunging into the water to catch fish. But not for long: with Regent’s all-inclusiveness including unlimited shore excursions, I may even venture out twice in a day.

Photos: Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The first port, Ketchikan, offers a fishing expedition and wilderness feast, a historic walk through Creek Street, cultural visits to totem poles and Saxman Native Village, a jaunt to view bears and a boat-ride through Misty Fjords where I spotted wild birds and rocks clustered with seals, their playful babies splashing in water. On a flight-seeing excursion over the cliff-lined fjords, I came face to face with an American Bald Eagle who seemed to be flirting mid-air with the whirring helicopter. Separated by the glass bubble, I saw the yellow ring of his eyes, his slick white head and pointy beak, before he elevated his vast wings and swooped toward the trees.

Juneau brims with excitement on many levels, from exploring the historic hub or panning for gold, to canoeing through tranquil waters to the face of Mendenhall Glacier to dogsledding with a team of huskies. My Alaska thrill came on a whalewatching expedition when five Humpback whales emerged, swimming nose to tail in a giant circle. They moved as if in synchronized dance. Flipping tails high, they dove down, leaving a ring of bubbles in their wake.

“You’re witnessing a rare site of Humpbacks who communicated to create a bubble net to corral small fish and krill to the surface so they can feed,” the naturalist guide tells us. Minutes later, the whales breached the surface, jostling in a feeding

frenzy, their mouths gaping as they inhaled their catch. So close, I could see their baleen plates filtering the food and the barnacles on their backs. The whales submerged, then reappeared farther away in a circular dance. Minutes later, I spotted a trail of fins slicing the sea, the first signs of black-and-white Orcas who then arced through the air in unison, choreographed by nature.

At the town of Skagway, I boarded the historic narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon Railway. Climbing more than 900 metres to the scenic mountain, the ride gave stunning views of the terrain as it changed from dense forests to bare tundra.

The pristine Alaska frontier of Icy Strait, aka Hoonah, delighted us with unique experiences. Indigenous Tlingit tribe members showcased their cultural heritage through song, dance, totem carving and tastes of their culinary treats. Some drove to an observation lookout for grizzly bears. Others went whale-watching, kayaking or joined an ATV safari through Tongass National Forest. Extreme thrill-seekers rode the gondola to the 400-metre-high crest of Hoonah Mountain to experience the world’s largest ZipRider for the mile-long course above the treetops, zooming at speeds up to 100 kms before plummeting to a sandy beach. My birdwatching expedition took me on an enchanting route through the misty rainforest.

Comparing experiences over cocktails at the end of the journey, most of us onboard agreed a major highlight was seeing Hubbard Glacier, its craggy face striated with incredible blue hues, and hearing the thunderous roars as mammoth chunks of ice calved to the sea. They loved it – and the indulgent comforts of feeling coddled on Seven Seas Explorer amid Alaska’s rugged beauty.

WHEN YOU GO:

RSSC offers the cruise industry’s most all-inclusive luxury experience including dining in all specialty restaurants, fine wines and premium spirits including in-suite bar, unlimited WiFi, valet laundry service, pre-paid gratuities, and unlimited shore excursions (with fees for premium excursions). Guests in Concierge Suites and above get a one-night pre-cruise hotel package. For an elevated experience, Regent’s “ultimate all-inclusive fare” includes air travel, transfers between airport and ship, and Blacklane’s private executive chauffeur service. Regent’s Alaska season runs from May to September. While 14-day itineraries loop from Vancouver, sevenday itineraries cruise between Vancouver and Whittier or Seward, Alaska. Visit RSSC.com

A NEW LEGACY BEGINS

Regent Seven Seas Cruises® sets the next stage in ultra-luxury cruise travel with the launch of Seven Seas Prestige™

IMAGINE STEPPING into a light-filled atrium, the sunshine pouring in through elegant skylights, showcasing glimmering twin staircases as they wind their way upward. From the first moment of your vacation, you’re surrounded by a world of splendour and glamour.

Welcome to Seven Seas Prestige™—the newest ship from Regent Seven Seas Cruises—set to sail December 2026 and purposely designed with the goal of redefining ultra-luxury travel. The sophistication of old-world refinement is matched by revolutionary technology and innovation; a next-generation ship that elevates the experience of all-inclusive travel at sea.

The Starlight Atrium’s design was inspired by the romance of the Renaissance era, its twin spiral staircases and its glass elevators offer people-watching and ocean views. “The Starlight Atrium is where the grandeur of Renaissance architecture meets modern luxury, creating a space that feels both timeless and contemporary,” says Yohandel Ruiz, Founding Partner, Studio DADO, the firm that designed the space. “Our goal was to get people to stop in their tracks, awe-struck by its sheer scale and magnificence.” Explore the Starlight Atrium’s levels further and you’ll find Galileo’s Bar, a casino, the concierge and reception desks, well-appointed lounges and more. But this

is just a taste of the light-filled airy spaces throughout the ship, the enhanced amenities and mix of classical architecture and contemporary luxury all reflective of the sea and sky. Seven Seas Prestige is Regent’s first new ship class in 10 years, according to Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises®. “Hosting only 822 guests on a ship that could fit hundreds more means we will offer Heartfelt Hospitality™ in Unrivaled Space at Sea® like never before. I truly cannot wait for this magnificent ship to join The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet® and the new legacy of all-inclusive, ultra luxury cruising that begins with it.”

Designed 40 per cent larger than its sister ships, with more Unrivaled Space at Sea, Seven Seas Prestige feels expansive yet still ensures that guests will revel in one of the highest passenger-to-space ratios in the cruise industry. The all-suite ship offers a variety of guest rooms, among the largest at sea, for all types of travellers, and feature private balconies perfect for morning coffee or sundowners to celebrate the end of another stellar day at sea. A new vision for the flagship Skyview Regent Suite is the icing on the cake. Sprawling over two storeys, it is like being in your floating residence, complete with private elevator, butler service and enough room for private dining and entertaining. Guests booking any of Seven Seas Prestige’s concierge-level suites and higher can also take advantage of a onenight, pre-cruise hotel package to allow more time at your embarkation port city.

Speaking of ports, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ ships call at more than 550 destinations around the world, offering the company’s immersive exploration—unlimited shore excursions in every port of call. It’s part of the unrivaled experience that Regent offers to all its guests, from top-tier Heartfelt Hospitality and service to fine-dining Epicurean Perfection and entertainment. With Seven Seas Prestige, The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience® builds on Regent’s heritage, one that encourages guests to embrace each moment. It’s a seamless way to travel, with everything from unique ways to explore every port, exciting nightlife and entertainment on board to the daily stocking of your mini-bar, valet laundry service, gratuities and unlimited culinary, cocktail, wine and dining experiences all included from the moment you set sail.

Food and wine lovers will work up an appetite for the seven specialty restaurants and 11 dining experiences on board, including Azure, a new Mediterranean restaurant exclusive to Seven Seas Prestige

Mezze-style dining encourages guests to connect and share—food, drink and stories of their travels. Of course, guest favourites such as the romantic Compass Rose; the pan-Asian Pacific Rim, French modern and elegant American steakhouse fare and of course, plenty of al fresco dining under the stars.

“Cuisine has always been at the heart of the Regent experience, and with Seven Seas Prestige, we are taking our commitment to Epicurean Perfection to an entirely new level,” says Montague. “Our talented chefs, sommeliers, mixologists, baristas, waiters and servers work tirelessly to craft a culinary journey that is truly Unrivaled at Sea. I’m especially excited to reveal Azure— an innovative and exciting new dining experience that will bring fresh flavours and a bold new concept for Regent guests to enjoy.”

Ready to experience a new legacy of ultraluxury cruising? Make it absolutely unrivaled. Choose Regent’s Ultimate All-Inclusive Fare, which includes air travel, transfers between airport and ship and private executive chauffeur service provided by Blacklane—allowing Regent to take care of you from door to deck. Nobody does it better than Regent Seven Seas.

WHAT TO BOOK

Unrivaled at Sea™ for more than 30 years, Regent Seven Seas Cruises® is the world’s leading ultra luxury cruise line. Carrying between 496 and no more than 822 guests, the line’s spacious and stylish ships are: Seven Seas Explorer®, Seven Seas Grandeur®, Seven Seas Mariner®, Seven Seas Navigator®, Seven Seas Splendor®, Seven Seas Voyager®, and Seven Seas Prestige™, which is scheduled to be delivered in 2026.

Fro Cruise Ship to Cayuco

On a culturally immersive shore excursion, Erin Nicole Davis discovers the real side of Roatán

WITH ITS PEELING

PAINT, hanging trinkets of all sorts and makeshift straw canopy, our awaiting cayuco boat was a refreshingly rustic contrast to the sleek Explora I cruise ship I woke up on.

That’s exactly what I wanted from Roatán, Honduras.

With its piercing turquoise waters, lush rolling hills, vibrant flowers and a majestic underwater playground, the island of Roatán

was, until recently, the Caribbean’s best-kept secret. It has become more mainstream with its growing popularity – especially as a cruise ship destination.

Roatán was part of Explora I’s Caribbean and Central America itinerary, along with stops in Guatemala, Belize and Mexico. I opted for the “Immersive Encounter with Roatán and its People” excursion on the island’s barely-commercialized east end. The cruise ship was the only one docked at the Port of Roatán during my March visit. In the

tourist season’s peak, there could be as many as five, says Sheila Henry, our tour guide and a lifelong local. “We’re happy if it’s one, and we’re happy if it’s five,” she says.

Tourism has replaced fishing as Roatán’s main industry, says Henry, as more travellers discover the once hidden gem. I don’t say “gem” lightly: Roatán is home to the stunning Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second largest barrier reef system –smaller only than Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Naturally, many cruise ship passengers

(including one in his 80s) chose scuba diving or snorkelling excursions.

Near the lively port, the main street is lined with shops displaying colourful clothing, fruit and veggie stands, beauty salons, small churches, bodegas and the odd American brand, like a Papa John’s. Men sell watermelons from a pick-up truck bed, enjoying massive slices themselves. While the process of paving the main roads is (gradually) underway, Henry prepared us for the bumpy drive in store to Roatán’s east side. “You’ll get a free massage soon,” she joked.

With its scenic canals, over-water houses and reliance on water travel, the charming and rugged fishing village of Oak Ridge is known as “The Venice of Roatán.” Here, modest fishing boats bob in the harbour while fishermen tend to their nets, locals sell cashews and corn rice (made with coconut

milk, cinnamon, sugar and corn, says Henry), and everything runs on “‘island time.”

Authentic and raw, it’s stuck in simpler days.

The cayuco offered a memorable mode to discover Oak Ridge’s eye-catching charm. Long and narrow, the motorized canoe-like vessel sat low in the water as it navigated the Caribbean Sea’s countless shades of turquoise, sailing past brightly-painted stilt houses, water access-only tiki bars and manyhued fishing vessels. The boat also glided through the Jonesville mangrove tunnel – a lush canopy of tangled tree roots, dramatic branches and dense greenery. It was like something out of a storybook.

Back on land, a traditional Punta music and dance performance offered a warm welcome in nearby Punta Gorda, the island’s oldest permanent settlement. Founded in 1797 by the Garifuna people and officially recognized as a National Monument, it

remains the heart of the vibrant Garifuna culture and untouched by large-scale commercialization. Performed to the beat of traditional drums, Punta dancing focuses on rhythmic and fast-paced hip movements with quick footwork and is accompanied by singing and chanting. A handful of barefoot local children eventually joined in – so did some tour members. Typically, the sacred celebration is private and not photographed, says Henry. But exceptions are made to immerse tourists in the culture.

Under a nearby seaside palapa, an elderly woman sold local staples, cassava bread and coconut candy. Her coconut candy recipe featured ginger, cinnamon, whole milk and sugar. Local women have long made a living off the sweet and chewy snack. “My mother was so particular with her coconut candy; if they didn’t turn out how she wanted, she’d throw them out,” says Henry. “She made a name for herself.”

Meanwhile, the flat and cracker-like cassava bread, made from the cassava root, has an ages-old history with the Garifuna people. Both snacks offered a taste of the culture’s soul for the ride back. While I’ll have to save exploring the island’s famed reef for next time, I’m grateful I discovered something else: The rhythm of Roatán. explorajourneys.com/ca

MY FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO ON BOARD EXPLORA I

ADMIRE THE ART Blending into a sophisticated corridor, the art gallery displays works from some of the world’s most renowned contemporary artists, like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein.

WORK OUT WITH A VIEW With its endless ocean views, top-of-the-line equipment and expertly-led fitness classes, hitting the gym is no chore – even on vacation.

HAVE A NIGHTCAP AT THE LOBBY BAR Backed by the ship’s dramatic grand staircase, complete with the live sounds of a Steinway piano at the top, the bustling Lobby Bar is a no-fail spot to connect with fellow cruisers over a cocktail.

ENJOY BREAKFAST ON THE BALCONY

The ship’s exceptionally large balconies offer ample room to start the day with a gourmet in-suite breakfast, with all the perfectly-done sides your heart desires.

SPA AT SEA At the pristine spa, guests enjoy complimentary access to a wellness circuit that includes a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, Finnish sauna, salt cave and an ice fall.

Baie Saint Paul, Québec

CREATIVE ENERGY is palpable in Baie Saint Paul, a Quebecois town located in the heart of the dramatic beauty of the province’s Charlevoix region. Here, the Laurentian Mountains meet the mighty St. Lawrence River, and the skies change constantly, creating visually stunning displays of colours and an artistic light. It’s no wonder art and culture blossom and thrive here. Many Québec artists call this place home, including the founders of the Cirque du Soleil, Gilles Ste-Croix and Guy Laliberté.

“We’re happiness merchants, giving people the opportunity to dream like children,” Laliberté once said. And artistic dreams are plentiful in town, where galleries and ateliers showcase local talent and museums like Musée d’art Contemporain de Baie-Saint-Paul (MACBSP) exhibit nationally renowned contemporary works. Venues like Café des Artistes host intimate cabaret nights that spotlight emerging singer-songwriters. Inner child dreams especially light up at Le Festif!, an annual summer festival celebrating Cirque’s roots with street performances, music and interactive installations. —Jennifer Merrick tourisme-charlevoix.com/en

Post your best pictures on Instagram using #boldpicks for the chance to be featured on this page in a future issue.

Tourisme Charlevoix