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5/8/2025

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Majestic North American Train Rides

 
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Train journeys offer a unique and immersive way to explore the vast and varied landscapes of North America. From the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains to the untamed wilderness of Alaska, these train rides promise unforgettable experiences. Following are a few of North America’s most remarkable rides. 

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4/10/2025

Review: Explora Hotel Rapa Nui

 
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Explora Hotel Rapa Nui is a small boutique, all-inclusive luxury lodge 20 minutes from the main town of Hanga Roa.  Located in a remote area of the island, it truly is a tranquil, restful retreat - especially after a busy day exploring the island.

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2/20/2025

Exploring the Sea of Cortez

 
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​North America’s Galapagos, the Sea of Cortez, is described by Jacque Cousteau as the world’s aquarium.  With over 900 fish species, six different whale species, rays, dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, and whale sharks, these protected waters draw an array of sea and wildlife.   

A small ship exploration-style cruise is an incredible way to experience the region's 

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2/11/2025

Discover the Dutch and Belgian Waterways

 
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Amsterdam is an undeniably exciting city, with its rich history, artistic legacy, intricate canal system, and world-class museums. The city offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.  From late March to early May, the Netherlands transforms into a vibrant floral wonderland. Keukenhof Gardens, often called the "Garden of Europe," is a must-visit during this period. 

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1/23/2025

Southeast France - The Provence Region

 
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Southeast France is most certainly a captivating destination with diverse experiences.  Adding time in Provence before or after a Rhone cruise – highly recommended!  Of course you can make it a destination in of itself as well. 

Top reasons to visit?  

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12/12/2024

Top 6 Reasons to Visit French Polynesia

 
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Nestled halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand in the South Pacific, French Polynesia is a collection of islands that can only be described as paradise. While often associated with Tahiti, French Polynesia is made up of five distinct archipelagos: the Society Islands, Tuamotu, Marquesas, Austral, and Gambier archipelagos. 

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11/14/2024

Croatia - An Adriatic Gem

 
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Croatia – an amazing travel destination with a stunning Adriatic coastline, natural beauty, rich history, a vibrant culture, interesting historical cities, amazing cuisine and so much more. 

Why visit?  Many reasons - here are several to ponder:


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9/29/2024

Top African Safari Destinations

 
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Africa offers a range of incredible safari experiences, and several countries stand out as top destinations due to their rich wildlife, diverse landscapes and well-established safari infrastructure.  Here are some of the best countries for an African safari:

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9/29/2024

Africa: National Parks vs Private Reserves

 
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​When going on safari in Africa, you have choices between visiting or staying in a national park, a private reserve or conservancy. 
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What are the differences?  

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9/22/2024

Top Reasons to Embark on a Bordeaux River Cruise

 
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A Bordeaux river cruise is an elegant and immersive way to explore one of France's most renowned wine regions, blending culture, history, and the great flavors of the region. Here are a few top reasons to embark on a Bordeaux river cruise:

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9/22/2024

Elbowroom Inspired Destinations - Part 2

 
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"Elbowroom inspired travel" suggests a desire for space, freedom and a break from crowded or hectic environments.  Following are 7 more destinations that offer a mix of wilderness, awe inspiring scenery and time away from the hustle and bustle.    

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9/21/2024

6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Antarctica

 
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Antarctica, the most remote and untouched continent on Earth, offers an unparalleled travel experience. With its vast, icy wilderness, unique wildlife, and extreme isolation, visiting Antarctica is like stepping onto another planet. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience or a nature enthusiast eager to witness one of the world’s last unspoiled frontiers, Antarctica has something unforgettable to offer. Having been, I can attest to each of these six reasons why you should visit Antarctica:

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9/21/2024

6 Compelling Reasons to Visit the Arctic

 
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​The Arctic, with its pristine beauty and untamed wilderness, is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations on Earth. A trip to this icy region offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventurous travelers. From the surreal landscapes to the unique wildlife, visiting the Arctic is an unforgettable journey. Here are seven reasons why you should consider visiting the Arctic:

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9/21/2024

Arctic Vs Antarctic - 6 Major Differences

 
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The Arctic and Antarctic – both amazing places to visit, to experience – but so vastly different.  Let’s explore the 6 key differences between the polar opposite Arctic and Antarctic regions.

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9/21/2024

9 Elbowroom Inspired Destinations - Part 1

 
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"Elbowroom" suggests a desire for space, freedom, and a break from crowded or hectic environments.  These destinations are perfect for anyone seeking a bit of breathing room and a chance to connect with nature away from the hustle and bustle.

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9/21/2024

Elbowroom Inspired Travel Planning Ideas

 
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Elbowroom-inspired travel is finding the perfect balance between exploration, discovery and relaxation, allowing you to enjoy a destination and experience without feeling rushed or crowded.  Here are some ideas for planning a trip with these things in mind:

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8/21/2024

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Europe: Slovenia

 
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Slovenia is increasingly recognized as an "elbowroom" inspired destination, characterized by its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and lesser-known attractions that provide travelers with a sense of space and tranquility away from crowded tourist hotspots.

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5/30/2024

Ship Review: Regent Seven Seas Explorer

 
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This cruise was an educational trip for me - one to see Alaska again after being away for far too long and two, to experience a luxury small ship cruise line, in this case, Regent Seven Seas.  This was my first time on Regent and the Seven Seas Explorer - following are my insights.  

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5/23/2024

Alaska Cruise Photo Story

 
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A classic cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage, in my opinion, is enjoyable during any season, April through October.  Each season has its charms and own set of experiences. Best time to go?  The answer depends on what is most important to you. 

We started in Anchorage, and sailed out of Seward (early May).  Our day in Anchorage started with Denali showing herself in all her glory.  A great start to a wonderful trip.

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5/6/2024

The Best Time to Take a European River Cruise

 
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The best time of year to take a river cruise in Europe? 

I get this question quite often.  The answer?  It really depends, on you, what your schedule allows combined with understanding advantages and disadvantages that each season brings.  

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5/2/2024

A Visit to the End of the Earth - Patagonia

 
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The Patagonia region in South America is vast, basically covering the entire southern tip of the continent.  The region, governed by both Argentina and Chile, 

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5/1/2024

Fascinating, Intriguing and Mysterious Easter Island

 
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A remote island 2300 miles off the coast of Chile, 1200 miles from Pitcairn and 2500 miles east of Tahiti, I have always found Rapa Nui, aka Easter Island, to be fascinating, intriguing and mysterious.  

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3/7/2024

Memorable Experiences in Buenos Aires

 
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How did the name Buenos Aires come about?  It means “good air” and dates back to the 16th century shrine of Santa Maria del Buenos Aire that sat above the Sardinian capital Cagliari.  The shrine was built on a hill above an area of swampland – away from the stench and malaria ridden mosquitos – thus “good air”.  Spanish sailors who settled the Argentine port city named it after this shrine.  

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2/29/2024

My Journey to Antarctica

 
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I recently made it to my 7th continent, Antarctica – a destination that has been on my “must experience” list for over 30 years.  I knew it would be exciting, mind boggling, full of surprises - this trip did not disappoint.  

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1/11/2024

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17 Sites Not To Be Missed in Budapest

 
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​Budapest is a fascinating city with incredible history.  Its roots date back to the Roman times and even earlier; modern Budapest dates back to 19th and 20th centuries when it was part of the Austria-Hungary empire and while under Soviet rule for 45 years, which ended in 1991. Today the city is a thriving metropolis, drawing in tourists from all over the world, many arriving or departing on a river cruise. 

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    Laurie Marschall - Owner and Founder

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    ​WELCOME!

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