Tag Archives: Europe

Iceland with Windstar Cruises

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Circumnavigating Iceland on Windstar’s Star Pride offers an intimate and luxurious way to explore the Land of Fire and Ice. Here are the key details of this unique cruise experience:

Itinerary

The 7-day cruise departs round-trip from Reykjavik, allowing passengers to circumnavigate the entire island of Iceland13. Key ports of call include:

  • Heimaey Island
  • Seydisfjordur
  • Akureyri
  • Isafjordur
  • Grundarfjordur

Ship Details

The Star Pride is a small luxury yacht that can access ports larger ships cannot reach2. Some key features include:

  • Capacity for 312 guests
  • Recently renovated in 2022
  • All-suite accommodations
  • Open bridge policy allowing guests to visit the captain
  • Watersports platform for activities in warmer climates

Excursions and Activities

Windstar offers over 40 shore excursions across the 5 ports, catering to different interests and activity levels2. Popular options include:

  • Puffin watching tours
  • Glacier hikes
  • 4×4 safaris
  • Whale watching
  • Scenic flights over glaciers and waterfalls

Special onboard events include crossing the Arctic Circle ceremony and an optional polar plunge into the Greenland Sea2.

Onboard Experience

The Star Pride provides an intimate, relaxed luxury experience4. Highlights include:

  • Multiple dining venues including specialty restaurants
  • Heated whirlpools and a plunge pool
  • Spa and fitness center
  • Lounge and entertainment areas

With its small size and curated itinerary, this Windstar cruise offers an ideal way to experience Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and unique culture in comfort and style.

Spectacular Taormina

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Just returned from Taormina is a fantastic destination. ! This red hot Sicilian gem offers a stunning blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local culture. Here’s a guide to getting the most out of a trip to Taormina:

1. Must-See Sights

• Teatro Greco (Greek Theatre): An ancient amphitheater with breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea. This is a perfect spot for sunset photos and a must-see for history enthusiasts.

• Isola Bella: This small, scenic island connected by a sandbar is ideal for a beach day. You can snorkel in the crystal-clear water and explore the surrounding marine reserve.

• Corso Umberto: The main street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Strolling here lets you soak in Taormina’s charm, with plenty of spots for gelato breaks!

2. Experiences Unique to Taormina

• Cable Car to Mazzarò Beach: Take the cable car down to Mazzarò Beach. It’s a quick ride and gives you panoramic views as you descend.

• Mount Etna Excursion: Just an hour away, Mount Etna is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Guided tours take you through lava fields and offer insights into the region’s geology.

• Cooking Class: Sicilian cuisine is incredible, and Taormina offers many cooking classes. You could learn to make arancini, pasta alla Norma, or cannoli—dishes you can recreate at home!

3. Food and Wine

• Local Dishes: Don’t miss pasta con le sarde (sardines pasta), caponata (Sicilian eggplant dish), and cannoli. For seafood, restaurants along the coast serve freshly caught fish and seafood platters.

• Wineries: Sicily has a rich wine culture, especially with wines made from grapes grown on Mount Etna. Consider visiting a local vineyard for a wine-tasting tour.

4. Best Time to Visit

• Spring (April – June) and Fall (September – October): These months offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists than in peak summer.

• Summer (July – August): This is peak season, but festivals like Taormina Film Fest in June attract visitors. It’s busy, yet there’s an incredible buzz and energy.

5. Practical Tips

• Getting Around: Taormina’s main sites are walkable, though a good pair of walking shoes is essential due to the hilly terrain. Buses are available if you want to explore nearby villages.

• Language: English is widely understood in tourist areas, but knowing a few Italian phrases can make interactions even more enjoyable.

Dollar is posting new highs against the Euro! Time to travel!

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The Euro is trading at 1.27- lowest in two years. Now is the perfect time to plan that trip to Ireland, France, Italy, Turkey, Prague, Germany or anywhere the Euro is traded. Now the luxury hotel you have been dying to see is in reach! Restaurants are affordable again! Cultural offerings are possible! I would love to help plan your dream trip. It’s a great value opportunity!