Mazatlán Mexico, City of Art and Beauty--and the Perfect Place to View the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

The beautiful city of Mazatlán will be one of the premier locations in the world to view the 2024 solar eclipse.

Mazatlán is one of Mexico's most beloved visitor attractions due to its natural beauty and colorful history. On April 8, 2024, it will also have the distinction of being one of the few cities on the planet to experience the best and one of the longest views of the upcoming solar eclipse.

Photo credit: Joanne DiBona

PUEBLO BONITO Mazatlán BEACH RESORT

Sunset view on the Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán Beach Resort

Both the Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán Beach Resort and the Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa are offering an exceptional wellness and relaxation experience in beautiful surroundings. The “SOLAR REBIRTH” allows guests to experience a unique alignment of cosmic energies, engage in rituals and meditations to release old patterns and attract new opportunities, and to connect with spirituality and nature. This program aligns with a recent trend report in Conde Nast Traveler that indicates that “astro tourism” is having a unique moment.

Photo credit: Tony DiBona


Immerse yourself in the Gran Acuario Mazatlán, the city's state-of-the art aquarium


Arrive in Mazatlán a few days ahead of the eclipse, or stay a few days after, to enjoy what this beautiful city has to offer the visitor. You'll definitely want to experience the new Gran Acuario Mazatlán, the largest in Mexico and a landmark aquarium in Latin America dedicated to the Sea of Cortez. 

Photo credit: Joanne DiBona






Did you ever see a smiling stingray?

If not, a visit to the Gran Acuario Mazatlán will definitely delight you.  Not only do friendly stingrays await you, but sea turtles, sharks, and many more creatures of the sea can be admired in stunning exhibits.

Photo credit: Tony DiBona


Discover Mazatlán's Historic Old Town

History buffs will definitely enjoy a stroll through Mazatlán's Old Town, which dates back to the 1500's. It is one of the oldest ports in the Americas and one of the most historically fascinating cities in all of Mexico. 

Marvel at Mazatlán's famous cliff divers

One of Mazatlán's most famous free attractions (though tips are appreciated) is a chance to watch the cliff divers fearlessly plunge from the ragged cliffs into the sea (which at times is only six foot deep!). It is definitely a thrilling sight to behold.

Photo credit: Joanne DiBona

Ship to shore

Mazatlán boasts a state-of-the-art cruise terminal and is a favorite port of call for several major cruise lines. The historic city center is .8 miles from the terminal, so passengers can easily discover the city on their own, or as part of a guided cruise shore excursion.

The majestic Holland America Line’s Koenigsdam, seen from the Observatorio Mazatlán 1873, makes regular stops in Mazatlan on its Mexico itinerary out of San Diego, California.

Photo credit: Tony DiBona








Outstanding Local Cuisine

To say the culinary scene in Mexico is exceptional is quite an understatement. Mazatlán, known as the "Shrimp Capital of the World" is famous for its many fine restaurants and bistros. Seafood, plucked fresh from the sea, is obviously a popular choice, but you will find all sorts of dining options, including meat, vegetarian and vegan dishes, prepared to perfection. For a special treat, book a reservation at Casa 46, where this photo was captured. This historic restaurant features an exhaustive menu of local Mazatlán specialties.

Photo credit: Joanne DiBona










Stroll along the famous Malecon

Mazatlán boasts a scenic 4-mile-long boardwalk, the Malecon, which is definitely one of the most photographed visitor attractions in the city. It's a popular place to take a walk, bike, or run along. Exquisite statues and artwork line the path, which compete with the amazing ocean views you will savor along the way.

Photo credit: Tony DiBona


visit THE HISTORIC Observatorio Mazatlán 1873

For a breathtaking view down on the ocean and the city, ride the funicular to to the top of the historic Observatory Mazatlán 1873. The cable car ride is an exciting travel experience in itself. Once above the hill some 246 feet above sea level, enjoy the ambiance of this historic site, originally built to protect Mazatlán from the regular invasions of enemy and pirate ships.

Once you reach the top of the promontory, you can explore the historic buildings and the lush gardens which house bird, deer and iguana sanctuaries. There is also a free presentation describing the process of making mescal and tequila. Enjoy a happy hour drink and hors d'oeuvres at the site's Skybar, where you can relax and soak in the amazing ocean views from this exquisite perch.

Photo credit: Joanne DiBona





Picture Perfect White Sand Beaches & Astro Tourism at its Finest

The calm waves along the pristine white beaches of Mazatlán are perfect for children and beach lovers of all ages. This photo was taken from the balcony of the Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán Resort, one of the city's most popular all-inclusive resort properties.

There's no doubt the total solar eclipse in Mazatlán, which sits squarely on the path of totality, will be among the best places in the world to glimpse the full glory of the sun's corona, visible only when the sun is completely covered by the moon.  

Eclipse or not, Mazatlán will remain a perfect place to combine nature, relaxation, science and history—all in one visitor destination.

We invite you to view our entire PHOTO GALLERY OF MAZATLAN on our photography website. We are always happy to answer any questions, so please contact us on our links below.

Photo Credit: Joanne DiBona

About Joanne and Tony DiBona

Joanne and Tony DiBona know a thing or two about creating photo galleries to share their personal travel experiences around the world with their readers.  Their articles have been featured on USATODAY10Best for the past decade, as well as in national and international print and online media. Their awards for photography and journalism fill up an entire wall in their office, the most recent being a top national award for their US and international galleries published on 10Best.

Follow their travel adventures on their scenic photography website and travel blog. Have a question about travel? Contact them on their Instagram and Facebook pages.

Read more about Joanne and Tony DiBona here.

Connect with Joanne and Tony via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter 

 

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE FOR THE FREQUENT TRAVELER & TRAVEL AUDIOPHILE

Those of you who read my travel product tips regularly know I am in constant search for the best carry on luggage options for both national and international travel. Years ago, I wrote an article about traveling through Europe for a month-long trip through different climates—CARRY ON ONLY. It was somewhat novel for its time, but today, since lost and delayed baggage on connecting flights becoming a common occurrence, it makes sense more than ever to go the carry-on route.

THE AWARD WINNING ROLLINK LUGGAGE IS THE WAY TO GO FOR CARRY ON TRAVEL


During a recent cruise to Antarctica, I knew we had to pack as light as possible (not an easy chore when confronted with selecting a wardrobe for below freezing temperatures). We opted to try out our new Rollink Flex Aura International carry on plus for this challenging assignment. Its spacious interior was roomy enough to pack all the clothing items we needed for the cruise. We loved the large padded protected front laptop pocket, which allowed us to access our computers in a second while waiting for our various flight connections.

In addition, the wheels were very smooth gliding, which is extremely important when you are maneuvering down those narrow airline aisles. And you can even adjust the telescopic handle to your preferred height. This versatile bag, at a light 5.3 pounds and measuring 22”x14” x “9,” meets the requirements of most airlines carry-on luggage specs.

As an added bonus, the luggage collapses down to a mere 2” thick, which allowed us to easily tuck it away under our bed, freeing up space in our cruise cabin for the duration of our adventure. This luggage definitely gets five stars in our book!


THE NEW-AND-IMPROVED SCOTTEVEST IS A GAME CHANGER!

As photojournalists, my husband Tony and I travel around the world in search of the most beautiful travel destinations to share with our readers. This involves quite a bit of wise packing, and since he bought his first ScottEVest in 2000, I asked him to contribute a personal review of the new product:

I’ve been a fan of ScottEVest for several years and, without exaggeration, I cannot travel with confidence unless I am wearing one.

My wife and I have been travel journalists now for decades, and I will never forget the day in 2000 when she sent me a description of the newly-launched ScottEVest. After being robbed in a crowded bus in Paris earlier that year (which literally ruined our entire press trip due to the loss of my passport, a significant amount of cash, and other important documents), I was excited to see there was finally a solution to this upsetting event ever happening again on our world travels.

I was sold on the idea of a theft-proof vest, and I bought my first ScottEVest when it was first released. And believe it or not, it is still serving me well, despite the fact it has traveled with me around the world numerous times. Despite its age, has never failed to keep my travel docs, phone and other items safe.

I’m happy to report on the company’s newly-released series of travel vests for 2023. I didn’t think they could improve on perfect, but many of the new options available are very welcome (especially for the needs of the gadget-laden traveler in this new world of tech).

I chose the black vest with red liner as my new “travel partner’” not only because of its extensive storage options, but simply because it was quite fashionable.

There’s a secure pocket for everything that I’ll need for my trip. During my travels, I load up the pockets with passports, wallets, notebooks, cell phones, glasses, pencils, pens, tablets, a GO-Pro, and many other accessories. The RFID-blocking pocket secures your sensitive reader-prone items like credit cards and magnetic strip items. The upgraded version includes up to 26 pockets, including a new feature of a large sized rear pocket that can carry a tablet.

Your risk of pick-pocketing is reduced to zero with these fully zippered and inside pockets. What a great feeling not to feel at risk while you are trying to enjoy a leisurely stroll through a city, attending a crowded festival, or traveling on a bus, train, or packed venue of any sort.

TSA security checks are a breeze, with everything for your trip tucked away in the zippered pockets. Just place the packed vest in the security bin and you are done. No need to put items into separate containers, as your vest will go through security as one scanned unit.

I even thank my ScottEVest when I return home. I just need to reach into a pocket with the secure key storage and grab my car or home keys. No misplaced or lost keys, a frustrating event that has happened so many times on our travels!

ScottEVest has done so much to relieve the stress of our multiple press trips around the world, in so many situations, we are happy to give this vest our sincere 5-stars! And we aren’t the only ones. The vest was recently named one of the top holiday gifts for the business traveler by USATODAY 10Best.


Audiophiles will love this product

While the Live! Audio A3 isn’t a travel product per se, it has made our lives as travel journalists so much more productive that I wanted to give it special mention in my holiday gift guide.

In today’s media world, if you are a travel journalist, it’s important to have a presence on many social media platforms. I let my talented husband (@tonydibonatravels) take over the social media aspect of our travel writing efforts over the years, as he is definitely the tech guy!

He had the recent opportunity to review the Creative Live! Audio A3, the latest USB audio interface poised to transform the way users experience audio in their creative pursuits Here is his first hand account of his experience:

As a musician and video creator for our travels, I recently discovered a compact device to manage the various audio inputs for my projects. Without citing the numerous technical specifications of the Creative Live! Audio A3, I can report that the quality of the audio is superb. I connected mine to a laptop which provides the power and interface to an installed sound editor. In fact, you can install a free NCH Sound Editor (Wave Pad). The editor will further enable the user to embellish the audio creation. There are two XLR mic /line connections as well as 48VDC phantom power for those using condenser mikes. Headphone connections enable you to monitor the audio mixes without any troublesome latency. An output connector is also provided for your mobile device.

Even if you are not a travel journalist like myself, this product would be ideal for anyone seeking an easy way to manage a wide variety of audio solutions with a variety of applications.

Overall the Live! Audio A3 is a versatile device that I—and my delighted husband-- can fully endorse.


FOR A "CLOSER TO HOME" CRUISE EXPERIENCE, EXPLORE THE GREAT LAKES ON THE LUXURIOUS VIKING OCTANTIS

Let’s face it. Traveling on cruises internationally these days can be a challenge. Cancelled flights, lost baggage, cramped airline seats, missed connections….we’ve been there, done that.

That is why our recent experience onboard the Viking Octantis Great Lakes cruise was such an extreme pleasure. We boarded our flight here in San Diego for a smooth, on-time landing in Milwaukee. As always, the gracious Viking crew was on hand to welcome us and “hold our hands” as they whisked us away to our lovely hotel, the Pfister. Opened in 1913, this historic hotel, with murals and furnishings that hark back to the 19th century and feature famous German artists of the time, has hosted every US President since William McKinley.

We spent a delightful day exploring Milwaukee, which is filled with impressive historical buildings, a picturesque River Walk, and a colorful Farmer’s Market, among other sites of interest.

Mackinac Island Main Street

Photo credit: Joanne DiBona

Viking specializes in detailed and interesting shore excursions, and our first, a visit to Mackinac Island, was definitely a highlight of our trip. Cars are not permitted on this island and you can literally go back in time, as horse-drawn carriages are the only means of public transportation. It’s a unique and unforgettable blast to the past, indeed.

Our next port-of-call was Perry Sound, Ontario Canada. It goes down in history as the world’s deepest freshwater port. The town itself is very picturesque and worth a serious stroll. For a more in depth look at the flora and fauna of this region, pay a visit to the UNESCO-designated Georgian Bay Biosphere, where you can watch baby turtles hatch!

The next stop was the romantic and inspirational Georgian Bay Killarney. As photographers, we were inspired by this location, which has a historical significance, as it was the favorite site of the famous Canadian artists “Group of Seven.” Our photos reflect what the voyager can still experience onboard this cruise.

Squeezing through the Soo Locks Photo credit: Tony DiBona



Another exceptional experience onboard was squeezing through the famous Soo Locks, which allowed our ship to passage from Lake Huron to Lake Erie. The locks opened in 1855 to allow ships to bypass the river’s 21-ft fall over rolling rapids and it remains one of the greatest engineering feats of its day.

Our next to final stop were the Silver Islet & Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, where one can enjoy magnificent views of the granite-collared rock, eagles, and more from the comfort of a Viking high speed launch boat.

Kakabeka Falls Photo credit: Tony DiBona

Our final destination was the picturesque and historically-significant town of Thunder Bay, Canada. Not only does this lovely city feature delightful old neighborhoods and an exceptional culinary scene, you won’t want to miss a trip just outside of town to to the Fort William Historical Park. Here you will experience life in the 18th century, complete with authentic reenactments . It’s Canada’s version of Virginia’s Williamsburg, and definitely not to be missed. On your way, take some time to explore the thundering Kakabeka Falls and the picturesque hikes surrounding the area.

Both of Viking’s expedition vessels, the Viking Octantis and the Viking Polaris will be sailing Great Lakes itineraries starting in Spring 2024. The first sailings begin in April 2024.

We hope you’ll enjoy an entire gallery of our various experiences on this cruise adventure through the Great Lakes onboard the award-winning Viking line. For more photos of this beautiful region, check out our entire gallery of photos by clicking at this link below::

VIKING GREAT LAKES PHOTO GALLERY

WE DID IT AGAIN!!--WE WERE RECENTLY HONORED WITH NATIONAL PRESS CLUB AWARDS FOR OUR CRUISE COVERAGE

I am pleased to announce that my husband Tony and I have been honored again this year by the San Diego Press Club for our work on USATODAY and 10Best.com in the national 2023 Press Club Excellence in Journalism award competition. This nationwide competition honors the best of the best in travel journalism and we are thankful for this recognition of our efforts to bring original photos and first-hand narrative to our readers.

Come Aboard the Seabourn Venture on its Epic Cruise through Antarctica

Words can’t describe what your eyes will see on this epic voyage through the Patagonia Ice Fields as you make your way to the frozen wonders of Antarctica. Every day is a new adventure, which you can choose to enjoy from the comfort of your luxury cabin, or trekking through trails in search of penguin colonies, shipwrecks, waterfalls, and incredible natural wonders.

Photo credit: Joanne DiBona

On board Holland America’s Noordam, you can visit the CITY OF MURALS IN CHRISTCHURCH, NZ

Our Holland America cruise from Sydney, Australia to New Zealand brought us to so many fascinating destinations along the way. One of our most interesting ports of call was the city of Christchurch, New Zealand. The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture, truly amazing street art, a not-to-be-missed botanical garden, a lovely river walk, thermal pools, great shopping, a free trolley through the historic city, and so much more!

Photo credit: Tony DiBona. This red brick mural, created by local artist Rone, is one of the most famous in Christchurch, the City of Murals.

FT. LAUDERDALE-A VENETIAN TOUR-AMERICAN STYLE

A few years ago, my husband Tony and I visited Venice, Italy.

We were on a tight budget and a personalized gondola ride, as romantic as it looked, was definitely out of reach. Instead, we opted for a multi-day pass on the Vaporetto, the ubiquitous Venetian water “bus” which provides public transportation through the city’s myriad canals and to the surrounding islands.

For three days, we traveled in this manner, hopping on and off at our pleasure to explore the wonders of Venice and its environs.

Water Taxi Ft. Lauderdale.jpg

Fast forward a few years to our first trip to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. We were on a whirlwind tour and had only two days to take in the sights of this aquatic urban wonderland which is branded as the Venice of America.  Okay, good start, since we were very familiar with the Italian version.

With the fond memories of our Venetian boating adventures still vivid in our minds, we happily took the suggestion of a friend to buy an all day Water Taxi pass. This pass, available for purchase on board, allows the holder unlimited access to the fleet of boats that sail the intercoastal waterways of Ft. Lauderdale from 10:00 am to 12:30 am on day of use.  The cool part of this pass is that one can float to one’s delight from one stop to another—each stop leading to a different urban experience.

We parked our rental car at a convenient lot a few blocks from our first destination, the Riverwalk. True to its name, the waterway was never far from our path as we strolled leisurely past boutiques, restaurants, and galleries.

In what I took as a very good omen for our first day in Ft. Lauderdale, as we were strolling along the walkway, a manatee briefly raised its head out of the water before making its dive into the river. Alas, by the time I raised my camera, only his flipper was visible as he made the plunge. Nonetheless, the thrill of seeing one of these gentle, and endangered, sea creatures quite unexpectedly just a few feet away certainly made my day!

We soon viewed the yellow Water Taxi placard (the water taxi is well marked with signs at each destination) and we waited just a few minutes for our boat to arrive. Schedules are posted at each stop, with Stop #7 connecting you to all 14 water taxi stops on the route.  

Our adventure began as our water taxi glided under several bridges and entered the famous Intercoastal Waterway. We learned from our extremely knowledgeable and affable guide Matthew (whose badge identified him as hailing from Toledo Ohio) that this 3,000 mile navigable route was begun in 1919 and runs from Brownsville, Texas to the Manasquan River in New Jersey.

Being from San Diego, Tony and I are no strangers to yachts of all shapes and sizes, but I must admit, our mouths dropped at the size of the mega-yachts docked along the piers during our cruise.They actually matched the opulence of the mega-mansions we were soon to see along “Millionaire Row.” These sprawling estates were owned at one time or another by such luminaries as Tom Bodett of Motel 6, Sonny & Cher, Lucille Ball, the owners of Hooters and Wendy’s restaurant chains, and the former CEO of Blockbuster Video, among just a few of the names Matthew dropped while awe-struck passengers clicked away on their cameras to capture the moment.

It wasn’t all glitz. There were also some natural pleasures to be enjoyed along the route, too. Matthew pointed out the best spots to view the iguanas sunning themselves along the shore. Sure enough, we happened across quite a few of these plump, lazy, and colorful reptiles that co-exist with coastal residents and are definitely a tourist attraction in their own right. 

We also got a second fleeting look at the tail fins of a few manatees as they began their dive into the water, as well as stately pelicans perched on the dock posts eyeing us calmly as we passed by.

We awoke to another warm and sunny day. Being from San Diego, mild temperatures in early February are not foreign to us, but we were nonetheless delighted to have such perfect weather for our explorations.

Our first stop from the taxi was Las Olas Boulevard, the “style-mile” of Ft. Lauderdale. According to the local visitors bureau, the area was once a sleepy road to the beach but it is now “where the chic shop and people go to see-and-be-seen. “  It reminded us quite a bit of its West Coast cousins, Beverly Hills and Palm Desert, for example, with its stylish fashion boutiques, art galleries, sidewalk cafes, clubs and restaurants.

We couldn’t leave Ft. Lauderdale without a look at its famous beach. Then again, we in San Diego have our share of spectacular beaches, but I must admit, after hopping off the water taxi and walking a few blocks down some side streets, we were rightly impressed with the pristine sands and bustling activity of this “beach-chic” destination.

True again to the visitor bureau’s information, Ft. Lauderdale beach has some of the best people-watching in Southern Florida. Not only were the bathers diverse and interesting (we chatted with a family from Rome who were spending two weeks in the city), but the avenue fronting the beach is lined with impressive high-rise hotels, upscale boutiques, funky shops and restaurants. The strollers, joggers, bicyclists, and rollerblade enthusiasts were also out in full force, adding their touch of colorful beach ambiance to the scene.

Connie Francis romped on this very same beach back in 1960 filming the movie, “Where the Boys Are.”  Fifty years later, it was clearly obvious why any traveler would want to spend an early February vacation on these sandy shores.

Our next adventure was to ride the water taxi to Hollywood, Florida. This 45-minute cruise is included in the price of the day pass, so we couldn’t resist.  The trip to Hollywood was relaxing and informative, taking us past Ft. Lauderdale’s cruise ship terminal, which is one of the nation’s busiest.

Along our way, our guide (ever present on the Water Taxi vessels with their knowledge, wit and charm) pointed out pristine state beaches, endangered flora and fauna, and other interesting facts. Alas, we were not able to visit Hollywood because of time restraints, but we promised ourselves we would return to spend a day discovering its charm on our next trip to Ft. Lauderdale. We did float past the Saloon Le Tub on the way to the dock, extolled by Oprah Winfrey as having the nation’s best burgers, and regretted the fact that we didn’t have the time to lunch in this eclectic and historic community.

Our final evening in Ft. Lauderdale ended with a sunset tour on the water taxi. The crew does invite their passengers to bring drinks on board, and I imagine a bar-hopping tour, as suggested by our guide, would be another fun adventure to orchestrate when we return. Tony and I ended this short, but sweet, trip to Ft. Lauderdale sipping Chianti as we glided once again through the city’s magical waterways, toasting to life and watching the winter sun set in a massive ball of flame over the horizon.

For detailed visitor information, contact the Greater Ft. Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.

All Photos © Joanne DiBona, © Tony DiBona 

 

CRUISE NEWS YOU CAN USE

If you are regular visitors to our website, you will have read many of our photo narratives of our cruise experiences around the world and learned of our love of unpacking once and watching the world float by in front of you—in unsurpassed luxury.

And if you are new to our site (and thinking of cruising as a vacation option) we hope you will be inspired to learn more about the cruise experience and how it may just change the way you travel in the future.

Here are two exciting new cruise opportunities we just learned learned about:

Discover the ANCIENT wonders of Egypt on A Viking Cruise

Photo courtesy Viking Cruises

We’ve sailed many times with Viking Cruises, both on ocean and river cruises, and the experience never failed to create unforgettable travel memories. Our staterooms were always spacious and comfortable, and it was truly a daily delight to see castles and incredible scenery roll by as we relaxed on our balcony. The included shore excursions were led by outstanding local guides who made history come alive with their insightful commentary.

That being said, we can only imagine experiencing the wonders of Egypt on the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary. Guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Saqqara (also known as “Sakkara”) and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. They then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a Viking river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings, and excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colorful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school. Finally, the journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.

Can you ask for anything more in such an itinerary?

For guests looking to extend their journey, Viking also offers Pre and Post Extensions that provide Privileged Access to archives and exhibits. Additional offerings include a new three-night Pre-Extension in Istanbul, where guests can visit the timeless city and important religious sites including the “Blue Mosque” and the legendary Hagia Sophia. Before their voyage, guests can also choose to extend their journey in Jerusalem, exploring the ancient history and vibrant culture of Israel’s fascinating capital. After concluding the river voyage, guests can also extend the journey with a 4-night Post-Extension to Jordan – Petra, Dead Sea & Amman to view Roman antiquities at Jerash, Crusader-era castles at Kerak or Shobak and experience the lost city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


Enjoy a Holiday SALE on America’s Scenic Rivers

While European holiday cruises along the rivers are very romantic, and well worth the trip, for some Americans the long flight to Europe and all the logistics involved might be too much trip planning.

Photo courtesy American Queen

Enter the newest promotion from www.AQVoyages.com that can bring you all the joy of the holiday season close to home. The themed voyages, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Cruises, and New Year's Celebration, are curated to bring travelers time-honored traditions, festive entertainment, and authentic culinary specialties.

In addition to traditional holiday festivities, AQV is introducing new Christmas Markets on select Lower Mississippi River voyages. Guests will have the opportunity to explore charming European-styled markets filled with handcrafted gifts, local delicacies, and seasonal treats, offering an authentic taste of holiday shopping as they wander through the decorated stalls.

American Queen Voyages’ all-inclusive fares include a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, ground transfers between the hotel and vessel, unlimited guided tours and experiences, unlimited beverages, open bars and lounges, acclaimed cuisine in multiple venues, in-room dining, unlimited WiFi, live daily onboard entertainment and enrichment, and hiking sticks. Bicycles are included on river voyages. Additionally, AQV cruise fares include port taxes and fees and pre-paid gratuities.

Happy Holidays!

Celebrating World Photography Day

In honor of #worldphotographyday I'd like to share some of the photos captured in Patagonia and Antarctica during a recent cruise on the Seabourn Venture. Without doubt, it was among our most memorable travel photography assignments to date. Here’s to our beautiful Mother Earth, and may we protect her forever.

Our complete gallery can be viewed at this link:

https://www.sandiegoscenicphotos.org/.../Seabourn-Venture...

@seabourncruise #WorldPhotographyDay2023

#antarctica #antarcticphotography #antarcticcruise #patagonia #visitpatagonia #visitantarctica #antarcticcruising #incrediblejourney #SATW

Art and Wine Onboard the Classic Holland America Noordam

Stepping aboard the Holland America Noordam is like stepping back in time—with all the modern amenities.

In addition to fine dining, first-rate entertainment, extensive onboard activities, luxurious accommodations and premier service, a cruise on the Noordam will definitely remain in your travel memories long after you return home.

The ship’s smaller size, with under 2,000 passengers, definitely allows you to meet with fellow travelers from around the world in intimate settings to enhance your cruise experience.

Our first impression a few days onboard was the proliferation of museum-quality art work that was featured on all areas of the ship. As veteran cruise journalists, we must admit this was a lovely invitation to relax and soak in the art, both modern and centuries-old, as we walked down the passageways and stairwells of the ship.

Enjoy some of the photos of the exquisite works of art we discovered on board the Holland America Noordam. If you have the opportunity to sail on this classic ship, make sure to taste some of the exquisite wines as described below.

Cheers to art and wine!

OVERSEAS ADVENTURE TRAVEL RECEIVES TRAVEL & LEISURE MAGAZINE’S 2023 WORLD'S BEST AWARDS

Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.), the leader in personalized small group and solo travel, announced that it has received an award in the Best Intimate-ship Ocean Cruise Lines category in the Travel + Leisure 2023 World’s Best Awards.

Small ships, access to lesser-visited ports
O.A.T appeals to the savvy traveler travelers who wish to enjoy an intimate cruise that can access smaller, more unique ports than other mega liners cannot.

Arethusa Island, Tremti Island Italy Photo courtesy O.A.T

With its small group size of no more than 16 travelers by land and 25 by ship, O.A.T. takes travelers off the beaten path where big tour groups cannot go. O.A.T. travelers stay in intimate lodgings unique to their destination, travel like locals do, and slip seamlessly into local life. Local Trip Experience Leaders offer firsthand insights and support to travelers throughout the journey.

O.A.T. itineraries are designed to focus on cultural connections—from sharing meals with families during Home-Hosted Visits and spending A Day in the Life of people who live in the regions visited, to discussing modern-day Controversial Topics with local experts and visiting Grand Circle Foundation sites such as schools, women’s co-ops, and more.

In addition, O.A.T travelers enjoy the choice to personalize their experience—from arriving early to extending time abroad with trip extensions—to make the most of their vacation. Single supplements are also available.
 

To learn more about O.A.T., visit www.oattravel.com or call 1-800-955-1925.

A VIKING CRUISE THROUGH GERMANY IN WINTER---JAWOHL!

Having lived in Germany for more than a decade, I can attest to the fact that traveling in winter through this beautiful country has many advantages. First off, the crowds are gone and while you may have to don a winter coat and hat, there's a peaceful aura that descends upon the cities and countryside during the winter months. December brings with it the magic of the holiday season, from beautiful decorations in every city and town, as well as the famous Christmas markets, which are truly unique experiences.


So recently, when Viking announced the Treasures of the Rhine, a new river voyage allowing guests the opportunity to experience Europe’s rich culture during winter, I was all ears. The new Middle Rhine itinerary debuts in December 2023 and establishes Viking as the first line to operate year-round on Europe’s storied rivers, offering guests easier access to landmarks when there are typically fewer crowds.

You'll unpack once, settle back in your comfortable stateroom, and for 10 glorious days watch the enchanting landscapes of the Middle Rhine flow by. You'll see UNESCO sites boasting turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, medieval towns, and holiday markets. Guests can admire the terraced vineyards and taste the region's renowned red and white wines, either on their shore excursions or from the comfort of their cabins or from the restaurant, bar, lounge and library.

Treasures of the Rhine departure dates begin in December 2023 and run through early March 2024, with fares starting at $1,999 per person. From now through May 31, 2023, Viking is offering its 25th Anniversary Sale for residents of the U.S. and Canada, with a $25 deposit for up to FREE airfare and special savings on all river 2023-2025 voyages. Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel advisor for details.




BABY BOOMERS ARE CONTRIBUTING TO A BOOMING INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL MARKET

This May, the U.S. celebrates Older Americans month, but it’s clear that age doesn’t curb seniors’ desire to see the world, and travel is currently quite strong in the nation’s mature market.

And it makes sense. We’re talking about a generation that came of age in the ‘60s, rocked to the Beatles, began the Earth Day movement and traveled around the world in droves to discover new destinations and the people of each country, with backpacks in tow and youth hostel guidebooks in hand.

And their sense of adventure hasn’t waned.

Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.), the leader in personalized small group and solo travel for Americans ages 50 and older, encourages travelers to seize this eternal spirit of adventure through its 2024 Small Group Adventures to diverse, discovery-rich locations around the world.

According to an AARP survey of the 50-plus generation, most older travelers (85%) rank travel in their top three priorities for discretionary spending, much higher than other types of expenses. Forty-three percent (43%) plan to take an international trip within the next three years, and 30% anticipate doing so in the next year.

“Older travelers in particular will continue to make up for lost time by exploring the world in 2024,” said Brian FitzGerald, CEO of Overseas Adventure Travel. “Our travelers tell us that unique itineraries at great value are most appealing, and our company continues to deliver that combination.”

From the company’s time-tested favorites, such as its Ultimate Africa safari or Sicily’s Ancient Landscapes and Timeless Traditions, to exciting new destinations, including Romania, Bulgaria, and the Azores, there is a world to discover traveling with the company in 2024. Travelers enjoy a journey off the beaten path in small groups and experience intimate cultural encounters, meeting people where they live and work for a real and unfiltered view of local life. For many, it will be a hark back to the travel experiences they enjoyed during their youth.

Cruising continues to be a popular mode of travel, for obvious reasons both for young and old—unpack once and see the world from the luxury of your cabin, with on shore excursions that take you in comfort to the highlights of each destination. Travelers can explore remote ports from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea, enjoying direct access aboard privately owned 50- to 98-passenger small ships in small ports large cruise ships can’t access. O.A.T. travelers step ashore in a small group of no more than 25 travelers for authentic local experiences.

Solo travel remains strong, especially among women travelers

Traveling solo on many cruise ships can be a challenge. But not with O.A.T., which is offering 23,000 single spaces in 2024 across all adventures. For solo travelers, the company’s free or low-cost single supplements translate to hundreds of dollars in savings, making these trips very attractive to solo women. The small group size on these voyages makes it easier for solo travelers to bond with other members of the group. For 2024, O.A.T. is offering 12 exclusive women-only departures of its most popular adventures – an opportunity to enjoy the special camaraderie of exploring with some like-minded intrepid women travelers.


To learn more about O.A.T. or to reserve travel, visit www.oattravel.com or call 1-800-955-1925.

ABOUT OVERSEAS ADVENTURE TRAVEL
Established in 1978, Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T.) is part of Boston-based Grand Circle Corporation's family of travel companies, which also include Grand Circle Cruise Line and Grand Circle Travel.  In 1992, owners Alan and Harriet Lewis established the nonprofit Grand Circle Foundation to support communities in which Grand Circle works and travels, including some 300 humanitarian, cultural, and educational endeavors worldwide—among them, 100 schools, in 50 countries. The Foundation is an entity of the Alnoba Lewis Family Foundation, which has pledged or donated more than $250 million since 1981.

Please note: This post was not compensated by A.O.T travel. In our research of the best cruises for senior travel, this company definitely came up as one of the best!

BEAT THE WINTER SKIN AND HAIR BLAHS WITH THESE NATURAL BEAUTY PRODUCTS

There’s nothing worse than the winter months (even in warmer climes like my home in San Diego) to play havoc on your skin.

I came home recently from non-stop press trips around the world, looked in the mirror, and knew I had to start using FactorFive Regenerative Serum to get my healthy glow back—asap!

I started my regime feeling good about this product. What was most important to me is that the FactorFive serum is made using human stem cell growth factors that work at the cellular level to restart critical skin processes that can teach skin to repair itself after being damaged and dried out. Also important is the fact that it is produced in the USA by scientists in their own lab using non-toxic, vegan and cruelty-free ingredients.

Amazing biotechnology in a bottle…what’s not to love?




Since my hair looked as dull and lifeless as my skin after weeks of travel, I welcomed the opportunity to test the COCOSOLIS line of hair products for a chance to breathe new life into my roots. I also put the company’s hair oil mask and growth serum spray to the test.

The Hair Oil Mask, which contained natural ingredients such as coconut, almond, olive, argan, and jojoba oils, brought my stress-and-sun-damaged hair back to life just after a few applications. The Hair Growth Serum Spray also made a difference in just a few weeks, helping to restore the hair loss I started to experience under the stress of constant travel.

This skin care line also features a Collagen Booster Dry Oil, which boasts a long list of organic oils—from coconut to passion fruit to pomegranate seed—to name just a few. Those soothing oils relieved the dry patches and gave my skin a welcome glow.

These products are manufactured in Europe, where natural beauty formulas have long been embraced for the ultimate in skin care, with no harsh chemicals added. They are also cruelty free.

Give yourself—and your skin— a Spring Break with these excellent skin care choices.

Disclaimer: I only review products that I have personally tested, and I am not monetarily compensated for any reviews. All opinions are my own.

EXPLORE PATAGONIA AND ANTARCTICA ON OUR RECENT USATODAY ARTICLE AND OUR SCENIC PHOTOGRAPHY WEBSITE

Since a photo is worth 1,000 words, as they say, we invite you to join us pictorially on a recent cruise through the wonders of Chile's Patagonia and Antarctica onboard the luxurious Seabourn Venture. Enjoy our photo essay on USATODAY10Best, as well as a complete photo gallery of this unforgettable adventure on our PHOTOGRAPHY WEBSITE.

This photo of a magnificent blue ice floe was taken during a zodiac excursion through the Patagonia ice field, part of our incredible Seabourn experience.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR FEET DRY WHILE YOU EXPLORE SAN DIEGO’S WILD AND WET COASTLINE

San Diego tidepools at Cabrillo National Monument, Pt. Loma Photo: Tony DiBona

Fashionable and waterproof—Vessi Women’s Weekend Chelsea

We’ve all been there. Maybe we were caught in a sudden raging rain storm or took the wrong step as we hiked near a creek. No matter how it happens, soaking wet sneakers can certainly put a damper on your day. And it’s even worse when it happens on a long-anticipated vacation.

San Diego is famous for its miles of white sandy beaches, but it also has its share of rocky, dramatic coastlines teeming with sea life. One of the most picturesque rock tide pools in the city is located in the Cabrillo National Monument in Pt. Loma. Here you can skip from rock to rock and explore the various sea creatures that call this wild and wet coastline home.

These men’s Vessi Stormburst shoes are true to their name, and keep your feet dry even if you slip on the tide pool rocks!

Our favorite footwear for this type of adventure is the VESSI 100% waterproof and breathable knit shoe (they are also vegan) which is ideal for mixed-weather vacations or, in this case, traipsing through rocky tide pools.

Attractive, comfortable and light-weight, this footwear will cover you in all scenarios, formal and recreational— including one that none of us look forward to—getting our feet wet!

@Vessi #Vessi #VessiAmbassador

HOLLAND AMERICA LINE INTRODUCES LEGENDARY VOYAGES IN CELEBRATION OF ITS 150-YEAR ANNIVERSARY

If you think months-long cruises are something out of yesteryear, think again.

The Holland America Noordam, New Zealand photo credit: Joanne DiBona

In these days of telecommuting and the swift decline of physical offices, workers can now choose any remote location to take care of business—while seeing the beauty of this world at the same time.

And what better way to do so than to do so than on a luxurious Holland-America ship, which boasts many amenities— including super-fast internet— to ensure that you stay connected no matter where in the world you are.

With over 150 years of sailing to the seven continents and through five oceans and 50 seas, Holland America Line is globally renowned as an expert in long voyages. The Legendary Voyages program features extended 25– to 59–day voyages that bring guests to fascinating ports around the world. Imagine taking care of business on the high seas, and then, on your days off, enjoying visits to top ports such as Reykjavík, Iceland; Tokyo, Japan; and Papeete, Fiji, to name just a few of the many destinations Holland America offers.

I was just finishing up a travel article during my cruise on the Noordam when I looked out my balcony window and saw this magnificent view of the Sydney Opera House and skyline:

Oh, and did I mention life on board is like being in a luxury floating hotel? You’ll savor exquisite cuisine at a wide variety of dining venues, access to exercise facilities, and (after you put your assignments to bed) a selection of top-notch live entertainment. Several beverage packages are available for purchase which will give you the choice of a variety of beverages that include specialty coffees and teas to fine wines and cocktails, in addition to a long list of other options, throughout your trip.

For more information and details, check out the website at hollandamerica.com and start thinking about your new office while sailing the world!

CULINARY "MUST HAVES" TO CREATE THE PERFECT HEALTHY MEAL

My mother had a favorite expression I remember her saying every time we sat down for dinner: You Are What You Eat (and she even had a cookbook by the same name!) I never forgot her words of advice and to this day I’m committed to creating healthy meals for my family (we even have our own organic garden, right in the heart of the city).

Like any chef, having the right tools is paramount to creating healthy and delicious meals—and it begins with a good knife.

THE CUTLUXE KNIFE

My son just got a job as a chef in one of San Diego’s premier hotels, so I had a perfect person to review this Cutluxe knife as it was used to chop a wide range of vegetables and chicken for a stir fry dish.

While this review may be a bit technical for those of us who just chop or slice with our kitchen knives, I think it is important to know that a professional chef endorses a product.  In this case, he mentioned all the positive attributes of this knife.

His first comment was that the knife was very well balanced. Most of the weight is in the handle, which allows more control during the cutting process (something I never even thought of, actually!)  He also mentioned that the bolster was slanted inwards, which makes it very comfortable to hold.

Finally, he noted that is quite sharp and “holds an edge” (another chef term that goes over my head) which basically means that you don’t need to sharpen it so often.

Bottom line is, if a professional chef loves this knife, it is definitely to be recommended. https://www.cutluxe.com/

Carbon Steel Wok

After seeing how easy it was to cut up all sorts of veggies with a good knife, I decided to buy a kitchen item I have thought about for years, but never purchased—an authentic wok. After doing quite a bit of research, I decided upon the Yosukata black carbon steel wok (available on Amazon).

My son immediately took charge and in minutes we had a delicious stir fry dish we served over the fried rice he had made in the wok earlier. Talk about a healthy, quick meal that far exceeded anything you could buy in a frozen package—at a fraction of the cost!




Disclaimer: I only review products that I have personally tested, and I am not monetarily compensated for any reviews. All opinions are my own.

EXPLORE THE AMAZING MURALS OF CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND

In what has to be one of the most amazing array of street art we have ever experienced in our travels, we were overwhelmed by our tour of Christchurch, New Zealand, part of our shore excursion onboard the Holland America Noordam that took us from Sydney, Australia to various New Zealand destinations.

Since a picture is worth 1,000 words, enjoy our recent USATODAY10BEST article that will take you on a virtual tour of the stunning murals, as well as other scenes of Christchurch that we were privileged to see as part of this exceptional cruise.

photo credit: Joanne & Tony DiBona


Celebrate "Wave Season" on an American Cruise Lines Adventure

Traveling internationally to hook up with a cruise can be expensive and fraught with anxiety about making the connection. So why not consider one of American Cruise Line’s itineraries that sail out of various U.S. ports, and make it easy on yourself?

American Cruise Lines offers 5 new riverboats and 11 itineraries on the Mississippi alone in 2023 and has a growing fleet of new small ships and riverboats operating 50+ itineraries in 35 states this year. All American’s cruises follow 100% U.S. itineraries whether they sail along U.S. Coasts or U.S. Rivers. In 2023, with 17 ships sailing across the country, American Cruise Lines will offer the largest collection of U.S. itineraries available in the U.S.A.

The stately American Song glides down the scenic Columbia River on the line’s Columbia & Snake River cruise photo courtesy American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines recently announced that February 18th will mark the opening of the Line’s 2023 U.S. cruise season, when American Star departs from sunny Florida. American is celebrating Wave Season by running more small ships from U.S. ports than ever before.

On the West Coast, American Jazz will embark along a historic cruise from San Francisco on February 24th, 2023. Following an all-new 8-Day San Francisco Bay itinerary, American Jazz will be the first U.S. riverboat in over 80 years to explore San Francisco Bay and the California Delta, cruising Wine Country along the Napa, Sacramento, and San Joaquin Rivers.

On the East Coast, two of the company’s smallest cruise ships, 90-passenger American Star and American Independence, depart February 18th & 25th respectively. American Star will begin the season along the company’s unusual 8-Day Great Rivers of Florida cruise, roundtrip from Jacksonville. Sister ship, American Independence, will sail the Line’s popular 8-Day Historic South & Golden Isles itinerary between Charleston, South Carolina and Amelia Island, Florida; exploring the country’s Gold Coast along the protected picturesque Intracoastal Waterway.

Last but not least, newly renovated American Heritage, one of the company’s beautiful classic paddlewheelers, begins the 2023 season on the Mississippi River, following a classic 8-Day Lower Mississippi itinerary from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Memphis, Tennessee, departing February 25th.

American’s 2023 season continues to open around the country, with Chesapeake Bay cruises in March; Columbia & Snake Rivers cruises and Puget Sound cruises in April; New England cruises in May; Alaska cruises in June; Hudson River cruises in September, and Holiday cruises in November and December.

The company’s small ship cruises offer an all-inclusive, intimate experience (accommodating just 90 to 180 guests and feature over 400 exciting shore excursions. All American cruise line itineraries deliver incredible value, and include complimentary onboard enrichment and entertainment, fine cuisine, and a festive cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres each evening. All ships offer 100% outward-facing accommodations, nearly all with private balconies.

American’s ships also include Starlink Wi-Fi, and many also offer included alternate casual dining venues and private luxury cruise coaches which follow the riverboats on shore. 2023-2024 cruise pricing includes Port Charges & Fees as well as Tips & Gratuities. All American Cruise Lines’ river and coastal cruises offer domestic Flat-Rate Airfare and many cruises also offer extended Pre-Cruise Packages, as well as Complimentary Pre-Cruise Hotel Stays.

 What’s not to love about this cruise option— right here in the USA?

ONE OF THE NATION'S MOST LUXURIOUS HOT MINERAL SPRING SPAS TO OPEN IN PALM SPRINGS CALIFORNIA

The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is pleased to announce today that the much-anticipated opening of The Spa at Séc-he at the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza in Palm Springs, California will be Tuesday April 4, 2023. 

Owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and operated by Agua Caliente Casinos, the 40,000 square foot The Spa at Séc-he is one of the most luxurious hot mineral spring spa destinations in the country. Its downtown Palm Springs, Calif. location is across the street from the Tribe’s original entertainment property – Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs.

The Spa at Séc-he in Palm Springs will feature the truly therapeutic hot mineral spring waters for which the region is famous. Photo courtesy of The Spa at Séc-he

“The opening of The Spa at Séc-he is a defining moment for the Tribe,” Chairman Reid D. Milanovich said. “The hot spring water means everything to us. It’s at the heart of tribal life and has been a cultural resource for us and our ancestors for thousands of years. It’s not a myth; these waters are truly healing waters.“

After careful consideration, the Tribe has decided to open the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza in two phases: first, The Spa at Séc-he on April 4, followed by the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, Gathering Plaza and Oasis Trail later this year.

 The Spa at Séc-he features 22 private mineral baths, 15 treatment rooms, a cryotherapy chamber, two float pod suites, a boutique fitness area, a grounding room, an acoustic wellness lounge, tranquility garden, menthol dry sauna, eucalyptus steam room, two halo-therapy salt caves, a resort-style mineral pool with four jacuzzis, luxury cabanas, full-service salon with scalp treatment beds, a cafe and a poolside bar with food service.  Information on how to book services at The Spa at Séc-he will be available soon. 

 Design inspiration for the Spa and Cultural Plaza is rooted in Agua Caliente traditions such as basket weaving, pottery (ollas) and botanical elements native to the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indian Reservation. 

FOR A LUXURY CRUISE OF A LIFETIME, SAIL ON SEABOURN CRUISES TO ANTARCTICA

No words can describe the natural beauty you will see on a cruise to Antarctica. And there is no better way to discover these once-in-a-lifetime experiences than onboard a Seabourn cruise. Combine the upmost in luxurious accommodations and cuisine, together with spectacular scenery (both on ship excursions and even remotely from the decks of the ship), and you will enjoy the sail of your lifetime.

Visit our SEABOURN VENTURE PHOTO GALLERY for more photos of the amazing experiences you an enjoy on this once-of-a-lifetime cruise. You can cruise in the upmost luxury, while seeing the most remote, and glorious natural scenery that only a few visitors can experience.