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You Won’t Believe How the New Visit Delaware Travel Guide Makes This Tiny State Feel Like the Ultimate Bucket‑List Escape

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You Won’t Believe How the New Visit Delaware Travel Guide Makes This Tiny State Feel Like the Ultimate Bucket‑List EscapeDelaware...

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South Korea’s K-Culture Tourism Boom: How K-Pop, Dramas, and Fashion Are Redefining Travel for Global Tourists

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South Korea’s K-Culture Tourism Boom: How K-Pop, Dramas, and Fashion Are Redefining Travel for Global TouristsExplore South Korea’s booming K‑Culture...

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Breaking Travel News: New River Gorge National Park & Preserve Crowned Best Hidden Gem for Adventure Travel in 2026

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Breaking Travel News: New River Gorge National Park & Preserve Crowned Best Hidden Gem for Adventure Travel in 2026New River...

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Taiwan Goes Smart: AI-Powered Tourism Revives Ancient Culture in a Futuristic Travel Experience!

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/taiwan-goes-smart-ai-powered-tourism-revives-ancient-culture-in-a-futuristic-travel-experience/

Taiwan Goes Smart: AI-Powered Tourism Revives Ancient Culture in a Futuristic Travel Experience!Discover how Taiwan’s 2026 AI revolution is saving...

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New Travel Trend Alert: Evoke | Inspire Revolutionizes High-End Tourism with Tailored Services, Exclusive Properties, and Private Jets

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/new-travel-trend-alert-evoke-inspire-revolutionizes-high-end-tourism-with-tailored-services-exclusive-properties-and-private-jets/

New Travel Trend Alert: Evoke | Inspire Revolutionizes High-End Tourism with Tailored Services, Exclusive Properties, and Private JetsEvoke | Inspire...

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South Korea Boosts Tourism with 5-Year Multiple Entry Visa, Encouraging Repeat Trips and Deeper Cultural Exploration

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South Korea Boosts Tourism with 5-Year Multiple Entry Visa, Encouraging Repeat Trips and Deeper Cultural ExplorationSouth Korea’s 5-year multiple entry...

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Royal Caribbean’s Hero of the Seas to Feature New Orleans-Inspired Orleans Parish Supper Club and a Dining Experience Like No Other

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/royal-caribbeans-hero-of-the-seas-to-feature-new-orleans-inspired-orleans-parish-supper-club-and-a-dining-experience-like-no-other/

Royal Caribbean’s Hero of the Seas to Feature New Orleans-Inspired Orleans Parish Supper Club and a Dining Experience Like No...

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Lufthansa FOX First-Class Experience: A New Era of Luxury Travel in the Skies

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Lufthansa FOX First-Class Experience: A New Era of Luxury Travel in the SkiesLufthansa FOX First-Class Experience 2026 introduces Michelin-level dining...

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How Turkish Airlines and Turkiye’s Booming Tourism Drive Sixty Five Billion Dollar Growth — Key Insights for 2026

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How Turkish Airlines and Turkiye’s Booming Tourism Drive Sixty Five Billion Dollar Growth — Key Insights for 2026Turkiye’s tourism sector...

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1 Million U.S. Travelers Head to Mexico for Holy Week

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/1-million-u-s-travelers-head-to-mexico-for-holy-week/

1 Million U.S. Travelers Head to Mexico for Holy WeekAs 1 million U.S. residents travel to Mexico for Holy Week,...

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Holland America Brings Art of Tea to Grand World Voyage

Holland America Line hosted a week-long immersive tea programming during the Volendam’s Grand World Voyage in Asia from March 24–30. As part of the cruise line’s Culinary Ambassador program, Master Tea Blender Steve Schwartz, founder of Art of Tea, hosted various tea-themed experiences for guests. The experiences were designed to deepen guests’ appreciation for tea...

France, Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Ireland Join Forces in Windstar’s Bold New River-to-Ocean Cruise Revolution with Star Explorer!

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France, Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Ireland Join Forces in Windstar’s Bold New River-to-Ocean Cruise Revolution with Star Explorer!Windstar Cruises introduces river-to-ocean...

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Set Sail in Style: Luxury Ocean Journeys with Explora Cruises Offer Exclusive European Adventures for Discerning Travelers

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Set Sail in Style: Luxury Ocean Journeys with Explora Cruises Offer Exclusive European Adventures for Discerning TravelersExplore Explora Cruises in...

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Understanding the New FASTag Annual Pass Costs and Digital Payment Integration for National Highways in India

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Understanding the New FASTag Annual Pass Costs and Digital Payment Integration for National Highways in IndiaThe updated FASTag annual pass...

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Carnival’s Celebration Key Becomes Sensory Inclusion Certified

Celebration Key has become the first cruise destination to earn KultureCity’s sensory inclusion certification, Carnival Cruise Line said in a press release. More than 400 team members at the cruise line’s destination in Grand Bahama are now trained to help guests with sensory needs navigate the vacation environment. “This milestone demonstrates Carnival’s dedication to making vacations accessible and enjoyable for all, including families with sensory processing needs. By...

April 2026 in Canada: Essential Federal Changes That Will Save Your Money, Time, and Stress!

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April 2026 in Canada: Essential Federal Changes That Will Save Your Money, Time, and Stress!Canada is ushering in pivotal federal...

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TAP Air Portugal Announces Move to JFK’s New Terminal 6, Strengthening U.S.-Europe Connections

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TAP Air Portugal Announces Move to JFK’s New Terminal 6, Strengthening U.S.-Europe ConnectionsTAP Air Portugal selects JFK Terminal 6 for...

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Windsor Locks & Beyond: Families Feel the Pain as JetBlue Hikes Bag Fees Amid Rising War Costs – All You Need To Know

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/windsor-locks-beyond-families-feel-the-pain-as-jetblue-hikes-bag-fees-amid-rising-war-costs-all-you-need-to-know/

Windsor Locks & Beyond: Families Feel the Pain as JetBlue Hikes Bag Fees Amid Rising War Costs – All You...

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Tamarack Resort Opens Reservations for New Marina Boat Slips on Lake Cascade, Enhancing Summer Experiences

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Tamarack Resort Opens Reservations for New Marina Boat Slips on Lake Cascade, Enhancing Summer ExperiencesTamarack Resort opens reservations for seasonal...

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Cruise Line’s Big Plans For Philadelphia Lurching Toward a Disastrous Start

With their new terminal nowhere near ready to welcome guests, Norwegian Cruise Line is finally offering passengers an idea as to what they should expect on Norwegian Jewel’s embarkation day. As one passenger asked in a Facebook message group devoted to the first sailing, “Is this the best they can do?”

Temporary Plans Are Being Made

For months, anticipation has been building, with the Norwegian Jewel set to become the first ship to sail out of Philadelphia in nearly 15 years. But as the first sail dates drew near, it quickly became clear that things weren’t exactly going to plan.

A large white cruise ship with colorful designs is docked at the PhilaPort Cruise Terminal. The terminal has a white roof and a blue sign. Several people and cars are visible near the terminal and along the road.
Rendering of what the completed PhilaPort will look like… eventually.

“We are excited to bring cruising back to Philadelphia for the first time in many years,” read a statement from Norwegian Cruise line released in late March. “Given the absence of cruising in the market for quite some time, we are working closely with our partners at PhilaPort to prepare the facility to welcome guests.” 

Now, we know exactly what those plans entail and they are, to say the least, unconventional.

What To Expect on Embarkation Day

In a letter sent to booked guests and travel partners, Norwegian promised that they are working to make sure the “modified check-in experience is as efficient as possible.” 

So what will be different? Pretty much everything.

A row of metal luggage carts, expertly maneuvered by a seasoned baggage handler, is loaded with black suitcases and lined up outside an airport terminal. In the background, several red carts and palm trees bask under a clear sky, tempting thoughts of an exotic cruise.

First, the line advises particular care be taken with luggage tags, given that the drop-off process will not be conducted in the usual manner. In fact, the process will take place at the Clarion Hotel Philadelphia Airport.

Upon arriving, guests will be directed to a parking area “reserved for our guests.” Fees, the letter says, will be paid directly to the hotel at a rate of approximately $16 per day.

As for luggage, “drop off will take place just outside the hotel entrance,” the letter explains. “After dropping your bags, you’ll proceed inside to complete parking payment and continue to check in” which will take place in the hotel’s ballroom.

‘Our Team Will Do Their Best’

One extremely important bit of information the letter provides is that “while wheelchair assistance will not be available at the Clarion Hotel, our staff will do their best to assist guests with mobility needs. Once at the port, wheelchair assistance will be provided for those who have requested assistance to embark on the ship.” 

Once check in has been completed, passengers will board a shuttle and be transported to the pier.

Norwegian Jewel refurbished space

The missive ends with a bold-typed warning: “For everyone’s safety and to ensure smooth access at PhilaPort, guests cannot make their way to the port, and there is no option to check in at the ship. Only guests arriving on the official busses from the Clarion Hotel will be allowed entry into the port area.”

It later notes that on debarkation days, guests “will be shuttled back to the Clarion Hotel” to pick up their cars and “arrange onward transportation.” 

That may be easier said than done, as the letter makes clear that “ride shares and taxi services will not be available from the pier. Guests requiring these services may arrange pickup from the Clarion Hotel.”

‘I Refuse to Get Stressed Out’

As details unfurled, many found themselves unhappy with the arrangements being made. Others, however, took a more positive approach. “As long as I’m on board when that ship sets sail,” commented one Redditor, “I’m good. I mean, I’d love for my luggage to be on board, too, but I refuse to get stressed out about it!”

Thankfully, the situation, like many of life’s more annoying bumps in the proverbial road, is only temporary. “Once this construction is finished,” shared one of our travel associates, “it will actually be quite easy to get in and out of the terminal and the parking area. Right now, however, it will be a disaster.” 

Read Next: NCL Ditches Birthday Cakes in Celebratory Package



Snowmass Balloon Festival Design Contest and Have Your Artwork Featured in the US’s Most Iconic Balloon Event!

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/snowmass-balloon-festival-design-contest-and-have-your-artwork-featured-in-the-uss-most-iconic-balloon-event/

Snowmass Balloon Festival Design Contest and Have Your Artwork Featured in the US’s Most Iconic Balloon Event!Snowmass Tourism invites artists...

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United Kingdom Shines as Wizz Air Sets New Standards in Low-Cost Travel with Revolutionary Bluetooth Ordering and Connectivity Trials

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/united-kingdom-shines-as-wizz-air-sets-new-standards-in-low-cost-travel-with-revolutionary-bluetooth-ordering-and-connectivity-trials/

United Kingdom Shines as Wizz Air Sets New Standards in Low-Cost Travel with Revolutionary Bluetooth Ordering and Connectivity TrialsRead full...

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The Pend in Edinburgh: A New Event Space and Creative Hub to Boost Local Tourism and Culture

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/the-pend-in-edinburgh-a-new-event-space-and-creative-hub-to-boost-local-tourism-and-culture/

The Pend in Edinburgh: A New Event Space and Creative Hub to Boost Local Tourism and CultureThe Pend, a new...

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Carnival Removes Tracy Arm Fjord from Itineraries

Carnival Cruise Line is removing visits to Tracy Arm Fjord from its itineraries during the upcoming summer season in Alaska. According to a statement sent to booked guests, the change affects sailings scheduled for the Carnival Miracle, the Carnival Luminosa and the Carnival Spirit. “We have been closely monitoring geological conditions in Tracy Arm Fjord....

ACI Report Highlights Athens Airport as One of Europe’s Most Punctual Hubs

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/aci-report-highlights-athens-airport-as-one-of-europes-most-punctual-hubs/

ACI Report Highlights Athens Airport as One of Europe’s Most Punctual HubsAthens International Airport achieves above-average punctuality rates in ACI...

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Viking Ptah and Sekhmet Floated Out in Egypt Ahead of Fall Debut

Viking’s newest ships for the Nile, the Viking Ptah and the Viking Sekhmet, have touched water for the first time, the company said in a press release. Following the float out ceremonies at Massara shipyard in Cairo, the ships will now be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out. The Viking Ptah is set to...

StarCruises Adds Kaohsiung-Penghu Itinerary on the Star Voyager

StarCruises has introduced three-night roundtrip cruises to Kaohsiung and Penghu departing from Hong Kong aboard the Star Voyager, according to a press release. The new sailings replace previous three-night Sanya itineraries and depart April 12, April 19 and May 10, 2026. The itinerary includes calls at Kaohsiung and Penghu Island. “These specially curated sailings are...

Asuka at 35: Two Ships Charting Their Own Courses

“Asuka Cruise offers a refined, enriching experience through its two ships, the Asuka II and Asuka III, each providing guests with a distinct concept,” said Kenji Atsuta, managing corporate officer at NYK Cruises, parent company to Asuka. “Together, they present Japanese hospitality and cultural appeal within the elegant setting of Japanese-flagged vessels.” In 2026, the...

Vertical Aerospace Secures $850M Funding Boost to Accelerate eVTOL Aircraft Valo Certification and Production Push

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/vertical-aerospace-secures-850m-funding-boost-to-accelerate-evtol-aircraft-valo-certification-and-production-push/

Vertical Aerospace Secures $850M Funding Boost to Accelerate eVTOL Aircraft Valo Certification and Production PushVertical Aerospace has secured up to...

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Underground Gastronomy: How the Air-Raid Shelter Hotpots in Chongqing Are Captivating Global Travellers

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/underground-gastronomy-how-the-air-raid-shelter-hotpots-in-chongqing-are-captivating-global-travellers/

Underground Gastronomy: How the Air-Raid Shelter Hotpots in Chongqing Are Captivating Global TravellersExplore the WWII air-raid shelters of Chongqing transformed...

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Patel Family Office and AHQ Launch $1B AYARA Platform to Build 50 Hotels Across Saudi Arabia by 2029 Boom

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/patel-family-office-and-ahq-launch-1b-ayara-platform-to-build-50-hotels-across-saudi-arabia-by-2029-boom/

Patel Family Office and AHQ Launch $1B AYARA Platform to Build 50 Hotels Across Saudi Arabia by 2029 BoomThe $1...

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Finland Tourism Growth 2026 Skyrockets as Arctic Adventures, Clean Nature, and Safe Travel Experiences Draw Global Tourists in Record Numbers

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/finland-tourism-growth-2026-skyrockets-as-arctic-adventures-clean-nature-and-safe-travel-experiences-draw-global-tourists-in-record-numbers/

Finland Tourism Growth 2026 Skyrockets as Arctic Adventures, Clean Nature, and Safe Travel Experiences Draw Global Tourists in Record NumbersFinland...

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Germany’s Massive Job Openings for Indians: Travel and Work Across Europe with 90,000 Roles

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/germanys-massive-job-openings-for-indians-travel-and-work-across-europe-with-90000-roles/

Germany’s Massive Job Openings for Indians: Travel and Work Across Europe with 90,000 RolesGermany is set to hire 90,000 Indian...

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Railway 200’s Inspiration Exhibition Train Reaches Final Stops: A Last Chance to Discover Rail’s Past, Present, and Future!

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/railway-200s-inspiration-exhibition-train-reaches-final-stops-a-last-chance-to-discover-rails-past-present-and-future/

Railway 200’s Inspiration Exhibition Train Reaches Final Stops: A Last Chance to Discover Rail’s Past, Present, and Future!The final stops...

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ITA Airways Resumes Rome–London Heathrow Service and Launches New Houston Route

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/ita-airways-resumes-rome-london-heathrow-service-and-launches-new-houston-route/

ITA Airways Resumes Rome–London Heathrow Service and Launches New Houston RouteITA Airways resumes flights between Rome and London Heathrow with...

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Vienna Set to Host Gaming Revolution: 2026 Summits Unite the World’s Top iGaming and Betting Leaders!

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Vienna Set to Host Gaming Revolution: 2026 Summits Unite the World’s Top iGaming and Betting Leaders!Unlock the future of betting...

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Nepal is on the Verge of a Tourism Renaissance with Plans to Transform Adventure Culture and Community Experiences in 2026

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/nepal-is-on-the-verge-of-a-tourism-renaissance-with-plans-to-transform-adventure-culture-and-community-experiences-in-2026/

Nepal is on the Verge of a Tourism Renaissance with Plans to Transform Adventure Culture and Community Experiences in 2026Nepal...

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Omio Expands Japan Footprint with New All-in-One Travel Booking Platform

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Omio Expands Japan Footprint with New All-in-One Travel Booking PlatformOmio enters Japan’s market, offering international travelers a seamless multimodal transportation...

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Spring Sakura Illumination Transforms Kiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto Japan

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/spring-sakura-illumination-transforms-kiyomizudera-temple-in-kyoto-japan/

Spring Sakura Illumination Transforms Kiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto JapanKiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto hosts a breathtaking spring sakura lighting event from...

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Noida International Airport Begins Operations, Combining Cutting-Edge Infrastructure with Regional Development Opportunities

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/noida-international-airport-begins-operations-combining-cutting-edge-infrastructure-with-regional-development-opportunities/

Noida International Airport Begins Operations, Combining Cutting-Edge Infrastructure with Regional Development OpportunitiesNoida International Airport at Jewar officially opened its first...

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Forget Thailand: Filipinos crown Vietnam their new travel king with record arrivals and rock bottom holiday costs in 2025

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/forget-thailand-filipinos-crown-vietnam-their-new-travel-king-with-record-arrivals-and-rock-bottom-holiday-costs-in-2025/

Forget Thailand: Filipinos crown Vietnam their new travel king with record arrivals and rock bottom holiday costs in 2025Vietnam attracts...

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Royal Caribbean Swaps Ships for 2027 Season in Southampton

Royal Caribbean International confirmed that the Freedom of the Seas will replace the Mariner of the Seas for the 2027 season out of Southampton. As previously reported by Cruise Industry News, the Freedom was expected to serve the British market after having its deployment for the timeframe cancelled. Originally set to offer itineraries from Miami...

Anandpur Sahib, Damdama Sahib & Amritsar Set to Become World’s Next Spiritual Tourism Giants — Here’s What Global Travel Trends Reveal

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/anandpur-sahib-damdama-sahib-amritsar-set-to-become-worlds-next-spiritual-tourism-giants-heres-what-global-travel-trends-reveal/

Anandpur Sahib, Damdama Sahib & Amritsar Set to Become World’s Next Spiritual Tourism Giants — Here’s What Global Travel Trends...

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Newcastle’s Historic Station Gets a Three Million Dollar Overhaul: The Ultimate Destination for Shopping, Dining, and Unforgettable Experiences!

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Newcastle’s Historic Station Gets a Three Million Dollar Overhaul: The Ultimate Destination for Shopping, Dining, and Unforgettable Experiences!The iconic Station...

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Spring Airlines Joins AirAsia, Qingdao Airlines, Chongqing Airlines, and Batik Air Launch Explosive New Routes to Penang – 2026’s Game-Changing Travel Surge!

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Malaysia Set to Dominate Global Tourism in 2026: Unbeatable Stability, Luxury, and Cultural Wonders Await Travellers Amid Middle East Crisis!

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Malaysia Set to Dominate Global Tourism in 2026: Unbeatable Stability, Luxury, and Cultural Wonders Await Travellers Amid Middle East Crisis!Malaysia's...

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Football Fever Hits New Zealand: Tottenham Clash Ignites Massive Tourism Push at Landmark International Festival

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Football Fever Hits New Zealand: Tottenham Clash Ignites Massive Tourism Push at Landmark International FestivalExperience the inaugural New Zealand International...

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Ambassador Cruise Line Fully Hedged for 2026-2027, No Fuel Surcharges

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Alaska Tourism Boosts Growth by Targeting Indian Travelers with Exclusive Roadshows and New Travel Opportunities

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Alaska Tourism Boosts Growth by Targeting Indian Travelers with Exclusive Roadshows and New Travel OpportunitiesAlaska's tourism sector targets Indian travelers...

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MSC Cruises Unveils Major Changes for 2026-27 Season and Cancels Middle East Itineraries While Introducing MSC World Europa to the Caribbean

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MSC Cruises Unveils Major Changes for 2026-27 Season and Cancels Middle East Itineraries While Introducing MSC World Europa to the...

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Travel Warning: Family Shares Terrifying Vacation Incident That Left Child Severely Injured — Stay Safe at Popular Tourist Spots

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Phuket to Host GSTC 2026: A Turning Point for Global Sustainable Tourism

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Phuket to Host GSTC 2026: A Turning Point for Global Sustainable TourismGSTC 2026 Phuket sustainable tourism conference will shape global...

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Hollywood’s Glitz And Glamour Exposed, Why It’s The Ultimate Travel Destination For Film Lovers In The United States

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Discover Hidden Corners and Local Flavours: How Experiential Walking Tours in Porto Transform Your Travel Experience

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Delta Flight Makes Emergency Landing After Engine Fire Sparks Panic Among Passengers

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Transcend Cruises Unveils Connect and Evolve: Revolutionary River Ships Transform Group Travel Across Europe’s Rhine and Danube

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S.S. Emilie Sails Inaugural Netherlands and Belgium Voyage

The newest Super Ship in Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ fleet, the S.S. Emilie, sailed its inaugural voyage March 21–30. Guests on the inaugural voyage experienced the 10-day “Tulips & Windmills” itinerary through the Netherlands and Belgium with stops in cities such as Amsterdam and Antwerp, the cruise line said in a press release. Highlights included strolling through the tulip fields of Keukenhof Gardens, sailing...

The Gresham Aparthotel in Leicester Closes Restaurant, Shifts Focus to Tailored Stays for the Modern Travelers

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The Gresham Aparthotel in Leicester Closes Restaurant, Shifts Focus to Tailored Stays for the Modern TravelersThe Gresham Aparthotel in Leicester refines...

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Thailand Unveils Revolutionary Travel Safety Programme Ahead of Songkran, Promising Safer Roads and Trusted Bus Journeys Nationwide

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The Truth About That ‘Hidden Funnel Bar’ On Carnival Cruise Line Ships

If you’ve spent any time at all on Instagram lately, you’ve no doubt seen numerous posts about a secret funnel bar located on Carnival Cruise Line ships. Here’s what’s got people buzzing… and the truth about the suddenly-exposed “secret.”

How To Access Carnival’s Secret Bar

What was supposedly a well-kept secret suddenly went viral over the past few days. Seemingly out of nowhere, Carnival cruise directors and random influencers were spilling the beans about a secret bar found inside the infamous red funnels which make the line’s ships so easy to distinguish from those of other brands.

One such video features popular cruise director Kyndall Fire whispering to us via her Instagram page that she’s “here to confirm” the rumors that there is “a new speakeasy inside the funnel.” Better still, she informs watchers that there are exclusive cocktails and the bartender is none other than the brand’s long-retired mascot, Funship Freddy.

funship freddy plush
Funship Freddy (Photo courtesy of Carnival)

So how does one gain access to all this awesome? “All you need to get in,” Fire informs us, “is knock three times and know the password, which is ‘muster.’” 

There’s Only One Catch…

Of course, there’s not a bit of truth to the rumor — a fact we’re as sad to report as you are disappointed to hear. But a quick glimpse at the calendar shows that these posts began appearing just a day or two before the first day of April.

And if one follows the link in Carnival’s Instagram bio, as instructed, it leads to a page reading, “Our funnel isn’t really a speakeasy, but that would be pretty cool!” 

That’s right, this is the latest April Fool’s joke to be rolled out by Carnival. It’s unclear whether some of those involved accidentally posted their vids early or perhaps that was done on purpose to keep people from guessing at the truth.

Obviously, some folks weren’t fooled. After all this isn’t the first time a cruise line — let alone Carnival — has pulled our collective legs on this silliest of holidays. Who could forget last year’s “Duolingo World Cruise” which would supposedly visit 195 countries over 5 years? (You can check out that video below.)

One of the dead giveaways indicating the “funnel speakeasy” is a prank? Just like with the Duolingo prank, no specific ship is mentioned. And while we might be gullible enough to fall for the notion of Carnival rolling such a fun concept out on a new build, the idea of it being on every ship?

Hey, we weren’t born yesterday.

Read Next: Should man overboard pranksters be punished?

💾

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Oceania Cruises to Debut Floating Pastry Academy

Oceania Cruises is launching a multi-year training program for its onboard chefs in partnership with The Butter Book digital training platform. Called the Floating Pastry Academy, the education program is said to be the first of its kind for the cruise industry. According to a press release, more than 200 Oceania pastry and bakery chefs will complete this three-year program combining theory with practical assessments online and in person onboard the vessels....

Bamburgh Beach Named Among the World’s Top 3: Stunning Views and Rich History Make It a Must-Visit UK Destination

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Orderbook Update: Cruise Lines to Invest $80 Billion in New Ships by 2037

Cruise lines will spend roughly $80 billion on new cruise ships over the next decade, according to the latest update of Cruise Industry News’ global cruise ship orderbook. Following recent orders, 79 newbuilds are set to be delivered by 2037, adding nearly 205,000 berths to the market. The new vessels have an average size of...

Royal Caribbean’s Ovation Enters Drydock in Singapore

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Oriental Land Establishes Subsidiary for Disney Cruise Operation

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Seabourn Celebrating 40 Years at Sea in 2028

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Heineken Expands Cruise Portfolio with Regional Brands

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Travel for Better Partners with Approach Guides to Turn Purpose-Driven Travel Into Bookings and Advisor Conversations

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Philippines And China Travel Ties Rekindled With Xiamen Air’s Groundbreaking Resumption Of Direct Flights Between Cebu And Quanzhou, Aiding Economic Growth And Tourism Revival

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Explore the UK for Less: New £5 Bus Ticket Opens Doors to 100 Towns and Cities this Spring

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Bridging Cultures: The 2026 Discover China Initiative Unveils New Horizons

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Updated FCDO Travel Advice: Essential Information for UK Travelers Heading to Portugal and Turkey

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New EU Border Rules 2026: UK Travellers Face Biometric Checks and Fingerprinting from April

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New EU Border Rules 2026: UK Travellers Face Biometric Checks and Fingerprinting from AprilStarting April 2026, UK travellers to the...

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Explore Park Hyatt Johannesburg, a New Luxury Gem in South Africa’s Rosebank Neighborhood

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Iran Tourism Crisis Hits Hard: Safety Advisories, Flight Disruptions, and Hotel Cancellations Impact Global Travel

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Game-Changer for UK Tourism: P&O Cruises Southampton Onboard Credit Offer Delivers £800 Bonus for Experience-Rich Cruise Journeys

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Regent Seven Seas 2029 World Cruise Unveils a Spectacular All-Inclusive Luxury Voyage Covering Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas

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I Had the Wrong Idea About World Cruises. Six Days on Holland America Fixed That

It started with tea.

Not the kind you absent-mindedly order at a diner and don’t think twice about as you sip until the cup is empty. 

A white teapot with a gold handle sits next to a teacup filled with tea and a biscuit, evoking the refined ambiance of a world cruise. In the background, fruit preserves rest on a dish atop a woven placemat.

The kind you sit down for, learn about, and share with a stranger from Madison, Wisconsin who you never would have spoken to otherwise.

That conversation at a tea house in Singapore, on day one of a six-day segment aboard Holland America’s Volendam, was the moment I realized this trip was going to be different.

Not because of the ship. Not because of the ports. Because of the people.

I joined the Volendam on day 79 of a 133-day Grand Voyage. The ship had already crossed oceans, made stops on multiple continents, and turned strangers into something closer to a floating community by the time I stepped aboard in Singapore.

I was the newcomer. What I did not expect was how quickly that stopped mattering.

A rectangular swimming pool on a world cruise ship deck is surrounded by lounge chairs. A dolphin statue and water slide are at one end of the pool, with the partly cloudy sky and sea visible in the background.

On most cruises, you see people moving about the ship with their heads down and their phones up. They’re checking messages or using the app to plan their day. They are, in a word, distracted by technology. And there is nothing wrong with that. But on this sailing, something was different.

People said hello in the hallway.

Conversations started during sailaway. Nobody was allowing their phone to serve as a wall between themselves and the next person. They were taking photos of sunsets and posting sailaway videos, sure. But when it was time to talk, they were present.

I put my phone away too. Not in my cabin, granted. Just in my pocket. But it stayed a lot longer than usual.

It turns out that is what time spent on a world cruise segment does to you, if you let it.

The People You Meet on a World Cruise Are Not Who You Expect

View from the side of a ship on a world cruise, showing part of the deck, railing, and ocean waves trailing behind under a clear blue sky.

Take, for example, the woman from Wisconsin. While chatting, she shared that she does variations of world cruises every year, switching between ships and itineraries.

For them, this was not a bucket list cruise. This was just what they have done since retiring from banking. I found that both impressive and quietly inspiring.

During that same shore excursion at a tea house in Singapore, I also met a recently retired nurse from Florida who had boarded in Sydney. Before joining the ship, she checked bungee jumping in New Zealand off her list. But that was only the beginning, as she had a long list of items and intended to work her way around the world, checking them off as she went.

A view from the deck of a ship on a world cruise shows calm blue ocean water meeting a clear sky with a few small clouds. The ship’s railing and deck are visible on the left side of the image.

A UK couple in their 70s told me the pandemic rewired how they think about time. They were not waiting anymore. If they wanted to do something, they were doing it. A 133-day grand voyage was not an extravagance to them, but an investment in their lives. It was the decision not to put things off.

And then there was the woman I spoke to in the elevator. She worked in healthcare and had sublet her New York City apartment for four months to fund the voyage. “It’s cheaper than staying home,” she shrugged, backing that up with some pretty solid math to prove her point.

Every one of them had a different reason for being there. None of them fit the profile most people picture when they hear world cruise. 

The Ship Gets Out of Your Way

Indoor pool area with lounge chairs, a metal dolphin sculpture, and poolside decorations including inflatable toys—perfect for relaxing like you’re on a world cruise. The pool has railing access and sits beneath a glass ceiling letting in natural light.

The Volendam has nine decks. Ten if you count the sun deck. You can walk from one end to the other in a couple of minutes. 

After years of covering mega ships that require a map and a plan just to get to dinner, that simplicity was something I did not know I needed.

The ship runs quiet during the day. Port intensive itineraries will do that. Most guests are off exploring by mid morning, which means the lounges, the library, the Crow’s Nest (my favorite!), and the Ocean Bar are essentially empty until guests begin returning in the late afternoon. 

For me, that was ideal. I am a remote worker, and finding a quiet corner to plow through a few hours of work before the ship pulled into port was never a problem. I noticed I was not the only one. Microsoft Teams meetings were happening in quiet corners and lounges all around the ship.

The only thing that required self control was the food. Something was always available no matter where you went or what time it was. That is both a feature and a problem, depending on how you look at it.

A glass bowl contains a salad with spinach, cucumber slices, tomato wedges, orange segments, crumbled egg, cubed meat, and a scoop of white cheese—flavors as vibrant as those found on a world cruise.

By evening the ship came back to life. There was live music in the Ocean Bar, the Piano Bar was slowly morphing into a gathering place, the World Stage filling with guests to see a super talented electric violinist named Jocelyn Ng.

For a ship of 1,400 guests it covered a lot of ground entertainment wise without ever feeling like it was trying too hard.

The size also made it easy to settle into a routine. Wake up, find a quiet spot, get some work done, head ashore, come back, eat well, catch some live music, and sleep. Repeat. 

A large cruise ship docked at a port, with lifeboats visible along the side and a boarding walkway connecting the ship to the terminal under a clear blue sky, prepared for its next exciting world cruise adventure.

By day three it felt completely natural. A day later I was at the future cruise desk, just to see what a longer segment might look like.

That is probably the best endorsement I can give a ship.

Cruising as a Gateway

Aerial view of a tropical beach with turquoise water, white sand, and green hills. A few people relax on the beach as sailboats from a world cruise glide by distant islands under a partly cloudy sky.

Cruising has a way of opening doors you did not know you wanted to walk through. A Celestyal Cruises sailing introduced me to Doha, Qatar. I have been back twice.

Holland America’s Eurodam showed me St. John in the US Virgin Islands. I have done three land trips since. Cozumel started the same way. The list now goes on and on.

This segment added Singapore and Halong Bay to that list. I stayed an extra day in Halong Bay after the ship left because I needed to explore more. 

View from a boat at sunset on a world cruise, with calm water, silhouetted rock formations, and a colorful sky in orange and blue hues. The boat's rail is visible in the foreground.

The bay is one of those places that does not fully register until you are standing in the middle of it. (Sunrise is something that might just have the ability to change your life, if only for a few moments.) 

Singapore is already on the return list. It is not that far from Manila, which I know well, so it will happen sooner rather than later.

My Last Morning Onboard

I set my alarm for sunrise as the Volendam made its way into Halong Bay. What I woke up to looked like something out of a Bob Ross painting. If you are over 40, you’ll get the reference. If not, hit up Google.

View of the ocean with scattered rocky islands under a cloudy sky at sunset, as seen through a window—part of the frame visible on the left. The sun is low, casting orange reflections on the water, evoking the serenity of a world cruise.

Limestone karsts (mountains) rising straight out of the water in every direction. The ship threading through them like a needle, turning to port, then to starboard, with the kind of precision that makes you appreciate the river pilot’s knowledge of the local waterway. 

Both sides of the ship had views worth standing for, and I found myself bouncing back and forth like a tennis ball, trying to take in as much as I possibly could.

A view from the side of a ship on a world cruise, looking out over calm greenish water toward distant rocky islands under a cloudy sky. The ship’s windows and part of the hull are visible on the right.

I was not the only one. The crew had lined up on deck nine to take it in themselves. That is when you know a place is something special. When the people who have traveled the world show up for it.

Six days on a world cruise segment will not scratch the itch. It will just give you a bigger one,… even for an introvert like myself.

Read More: Embarkation Thoughts of Holland America’s Volendam

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Cruise Line Ditches Birthday Cake in Celebratory Package

Marie Antoinette may or may not have said “Let them eat cake!” But Norwegian Cruise Line’s new policy means that if you want to do so, you’ll have to pay a whole lotta money. Why? Because the birthday package which previously included a six-inch cake has being majorly altered… or in their words, “refreshed.” 

What You Now Get Instead of Birthday Cake

Guests who had already ordered the Happy Birthday package, for themselves or a loved one, got an unexpected note from the cruise line. It appears that while the package is still available for purchase, it no longer includes the celebratory cake.

Instead, the letter reads, the package has been “designed to make your special day even more memorable.” It goes on to say that the “refreshed” package is part of the cruise line’s “continued effort to elevate the way we celebrate life’s moments at sea.”

Now, the previously included cake “will be replaced with a photo keepsake so you can take home a memory that lasts long after the candles are blown out. It is a small shift designed to make your celebration feel more personal and more connected to your time onboard.” 

A group of people stand close together on a sunny beach, some wearing sunglasses and carrying colorful balloons, while others hold each other or smile at the camera, celebrating with a birthday cake against mountains and ocean in the background.

Those booking the birthday package will now receive, according to the site, “a colorful selection of cheerful cabin decorations and a celebratory banner, plus keepsakes to capture the celebration, including a Compass Collection frame and a photo voucher redeemable toward any photo or photo package.” 

How You Can Still Get a Birthday Cake

Never fear, those who believe that a party ain’t a party without a slice of cake will still be able to order up a tasty treat. It won’t, however, come cheap. According to the line’s website, a “standard half sheet” cake (whether for one’s birthday or honeymoon) comes in at $148.80. But for around $50 more, you can go whole hog and order a full-sheet. Both are available in vanilla or chocolate.

Screenshot of an online bakery catalog showing cakes for sale, including birthday cakes, vanilla and chocolate sheet cakes with prices listed below each item and "Select" buttons for ordering.

“I Want My Money Back!”

The only people truly impacted by the change are those who had previously placed an order. (Anyone looking to purchase it moving forward would know that a cake is no longer included just by reading the details when ordering.) “The whole reason I ordered this package was for the cake,” complained one Norwegian passenger in a Facebook page devoted to the line.

Others, however, agreed with the company’s thinking that a complimentary photo was a better option. “Honestly, the cake isn’t that good,” wrote one, followed by a shrugging emotion. “I had it on two different birthday trips, and most of it wound up in the garbage.” 

Read Next: Norwegian’s New Show Comes With a Price Tag

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My Dad Never Got to Do His World Cruise. I Took a Small Piece of It for Him

For most of my cruising career, the routine was simple. Fly to Miami or Port Everglades, board a ship, sail the Caribbean, repeat. Maybe Alaska in the summer. It was comfortable, familiar, and the easiest way to cruise.

A large Holland America cruise ship with "Holland America Line" written on the side is docked at a port under a partly cloudy sky, ready to embark on an unforgettable Asia World Cruise. The ship's lower part is black and the upper part is white.

That changed in 2021 when my dad passed away at 65. He always talked about doing a Holland America world cruise someday. Asia, the Amazon, getting back to Sydney. His desk was cluttered with itinerary-filled brochures.

Sadly, he never got to make that dream a reality.

I am not sure I made a conscious decision to change the way I traveled after losing him. But looking back, something shifted. The Caribbean was no longer enough. I started saying yes to things I would have talked myself out of in the past.

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords. The glaciers of Alaska. A river cruise down the Mekong. A sailing out of Athens. A Middle East cruise out of Qatar. I started doing them all.

And now, here I am, joining day 79 of 133 on Holland America’s Grand Voyage aboard the ms Volendam, somewhere in Southeast Asia, doing part of the trip my dad never got to take.

A cityscape featuring modern high-rise buildings along a waterfront under a cloudy sunset sky. The calm water in the foreground reflects the muted light from skyscrapers—an inviting scene reminiscent of Asia on a Holland America World Cruise.

The segment I joined dotted Southeast Asia and was a fraction of the overall itinerary.

I embarked in Singapore, crossed the South China Sea on a sea day, stopped at Phu My — the port for Ho Chi Minh City — had another day at sea, called on Da Nang, and wrapped in Halong Bay, where I disembarked and flew out of Hanoi. More on these later.

See the World — Or Just Part Of It

A world map showing two world cruise routes as a travel tribute: one departing San Diego through the Pacific, and another from Ft. Lauderdale spanning multiple continents across the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

One of the biggest misconceptions about a world cruise is that you have to commit to the whole thing. You do not.

Holland America breaks the Grand Voyage into segments, and there are options around nearly every continent. On this sailing alone, I met passengers who boarded in Fort Lauderdale and were going the distance, others who joined in Sydney and would remain until the ship returned to Florida, and others doing shorter stretches between specific ports.

Everyone had their own version of the same trip, like one of those Choose Your Own Adventure books I loved as a kid.

A row of striped lounge chairs sits on the wooden deck of a cruise ship, perfect for relaxing during a world cruise. The empty deck features safety signs, a railing to the right, and the ocean stretching into the distance.

The full 2027 Grand Voyage starts at around $29,000 per cabin, which sounds like a lot… until you start breaking it down.

But you can also pick up an 18-night segment from Sydney to Singapore for $4,600, or jump on for the final 54 nights from Cape Town back to Fort Lauderdale.

Suddenly it is a different conversation. You don’t have to be retired to take one of these segments. Whether you want to see the world or just one particular part, the cruise can be tailored to your bucket-list or interests.

In fact, flexibility is what makes this more accessible than most people assume. You pick the piece of the world you want to see, book the segment that gets you there, and let the ship do the rest. It is really that easy.

Boarding a Different Kind of Ship

A large white and navy Holland America cruise ship is docked at a port under a clear blue sky. Orange lifeboats are visible along the side, and a boarding ramp connects the ship to the terminal, ready for its World Cruise across Asia.

The ms Volendam is the smallest ship I have ever sailed with Holland America Line. After this sailing, the only Holland America ship I have not been on is the Zaandam.

Coming off a stretch on newer vessels like Nieuw Statendam, Koningsdam, and Rotterdam, stepping onto a ship that holds just 1,400 guests felt like I could catch my breath again.

That size is not a limitation. It is the entire idea.

A view from the deck of a Holland America ship on a World Cruise shows clear blue sky and calm sea, with several cargo ships in the distance. The deck features wooden flooring and white railings, capturing the serenity of travel through Asia.

On a sailing like this, the ship is more than a mode of transportation. You spend the day exploring, come back, eat a good meal, maybe catch a show, get some sleep, and do it all over again.

You are not meant to stay onboard, though there is nothing saying that you can’t do exactly that. But you are meant to go out and see the world, and the Volendam is a comfortable, unpretentious home base to return to at the end of the day.

A neatly made bed with pillows sits next to a large window in this compact, modern hotel room—perfect for travelers exploring Asia or embarking on a Holland America World Cruise. Amenities include a desk, water bottles, and decorative lighting.

For a ship launched in 1999, she holds up well. The layout will feel familiar to anyone who has sailed Holland America’s older fleet, and the onboard options cover what you need without overcomplicating things.

You won’t find a dozen dining venues or big Broadway-style productions, but again, that isn’t why you’re here. This isn’t a one-week vacation, this is the journey of a lifetime.

It’s All About Singapore

A view of the Marina Bay Sands hotel in Singapore, a highlight on many Holland America World Cruise itineraries in Asia, featuring three towers with a boat-shaped structure on top, greenery, and the ArtScience Museum visible on the left.

So let’s talk about my experience doing a segment of this incredible voyage.

After embarkation in Singapore, I ordered a Grab (Southeast Asia’s answer to Uber) and headed straight to Marina Bay Sands. Photos and videos do not do it justice. The observation deck gives you the kind of view that reminds you how far from home you actually are.

I walked through the casino, which is enormous in a way that has to be seen to be understood, made a quick stop at the Apple Store, and headed back to the ship. Knowing my excursion the next day would eat up most of my time ashore, I wanted to get out while I had the chance. I’m glad I did.

Holland America was deliberate about the Asia segment of this Grand Voyage, and it showed before I even got back onboard. Asia was not just a backdrop here. It was the point. That thinking carried into the shore excursion program as well.

Make Room for Tea

One of more unique shore excursions was a tea experience developed in partnership with Art of Tea, a four-hour hands-on workshop built around Chinese tea culture. This included a guided tasting at a traditional tea house to high tea in the afternoon at the Shangri-La Singapore resort.

Five small bowls on a counter, each with a different loose leaf tea, are labeled in English and Chinese: Dark Tea, Black Tea, Oolong Tea, Green Tea, and White Tea—a tasting experience inspired by Asia aboard your Holland America World Cruise.

What made this event so special was that Art of Tea founder Steve Swartz, a master tea blender and author, was onboard for the entire Southeast Asia segment, leading classes, Q&A sessions, and joining shore excursions in both Singapore and Vietnam. That is the kind of access you do not get on a standard seven-night cruise.

If I am being frank, I had no idea what I was getting into when I signed up. I have extreme ADD, and sitting still for a tea tasting is not exactly my natural habitat. Regular readers will know that I typically catch about 10 minutes of an onboard show before getting the fidgets and bolting.

A woman in a white dress stands behind a kitchen counter, speaking into a headset microphone. Surrounded by kitchen items, lanterns, and flowers, she hosts a cooking demo inspired by Asia on a Holland America world cruise.

But here I was, genuinely fascinated by all things tea, and a lot of that credit goes to the woman who led the tea house portion.

She was funny, knew how to hold a room, and made it feel like a workshop rather than a lecture. Sometimes you book an excursion and then worry it’s going to feel like listening to Charlie Brown’s teacher. This was not that.

The excursion wrapped up with high tea at the Shangri-La, and the presentation alone was worth showing up for. Pastries and bites arrived on a tiered stand, the kind of spread where everything looks too good to eat before you remind yourself that you absolutely should!

A table set for afternoon tea on a Holland America World Cruise, with floral-patterned plates, a tiered tray of pastries, an orchid centerpiece, brown gift bags, and scones with three types of jam—echoing flavors from Asia.

I have done high tea on cruise ships before and showed up mostly for the food. This time the entire high tea event made sense. It gave me a new appreciation for tea I did not see coming. In fact, once back on the ship I found myself routinely ordering tea instead of coffee. Trust me, that was not on my Bingo card for 2026!

At $269.95 per person it is a niche offering, best suited for repeat Singapore passengers or those looking for something in depth as opposed to your typical “highlights” tour.

Either way, this was a clear example of Holland America leaning into the culture of the region rather than simply passing through it.

The Cruise Begins

After two days in Singapore harbor, the Volendam finally pushed back from the dock and headed out through the Gulf of Thailand toward the South China Sea.

With only 1,400 guests onboard, sea days felt… well, the way sea days are supposed to but rarely do. Unhurried. Relaxed. Refreshing. There were no crowds at peak dining times, and nothing felt like a competition for space. What a change from all the mega ships I’ve sailed lately.

I found myself back in one of Steve Swartz’s sessions, this time a casual tea chat that turned into a conversation about herbal health benefits. He made it clear that he does not give medical advice, but everything he mentioned checked out when I looked it up later.

It was enough to get me to the gym, which is not something I say very often.

That evening, I caught the live music in the Ocean Bar and Piano Bar, and eventually made my way to the back of the ship.

A modern bar with a marble countertop, red velvet chairs, patterned carpet, and an illuminated ceiling welcomes guests aboard Holland America’s World Cruise. Multiple wall-mounted screens display colorful images inspired by Asia amid blue and warm lighting.

Standing at the stern watching the sun sink into the South China Sea, the wake churning below me, I was not thinking about itineraries or excursions or what was next. I was just there, in the moment.

View from a Holland America ship’s deck on a World Cruise: ocean waves trail behind as the sun sets through clouds, sunlight reflecting on the water. Part of the ship’s railing and deck appear in the foreground, evoking adventure across Asia and beyond.

These are the moments that keep bringing me back to cruising, and honestly, the reason my dad would have told me take the cruise in the first place.

To be continued.

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Atlas Ocean Voyages Introduces All-Suite Experience Across Fleet

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PortMiami May Get Direct Rail Link to Miami International Airport

City officials are mulling a solution to ease traffic congestion at the world’s busiest cruise port. Miami lawmakers are considering constructing a direct rail link connecting PortMiami to Miami International Airport.

Direct airport-cruise port link under review

Aerial view of a Miami Slice cruise ship sailing near a coastline with a high-rise building, lush green park, and beach. The ship is heading towards the open blue ocean while smaller vessels are visible in the distance.
Carnival Celebration leaving PortMiami( Doug Parker/Cruise Radio)

An initial proposal for a rail link was included in the Miami-Dade Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) 2050 Master Plan, published in 2024. It was one of several options to alleviate congestion in the port area.

A direct train to PortMiami is now under serious review after narrowing down most other options, according to the TPO.

The project could cost up to $800 million and would require extending the Metrorail system by about 10 miles of new track, plus a new bridge over the Miami River. Operational costs would run up to $15 million annually.

The port currently has a freight train bridge, but it could only support the MetroMover system, which moves slowly and carries about 50 passengers at a time. The direct rail link remains at an early stage of discussion.

While lawmakers are interested in exploring this long-term option, interim measures to reduce congestion around PortMiami are also on the table.

The report recommends adding shuttle bus routes from downtown transit stations to the port, developed in collaboration with cruise lines.

PortMiami handled a record 8.5 million cruise passengers in 2024, leading to serious congestion on busy days. Carnival brand ambassador John Heald has posted tips for guests on how to plan around and avoid traffic delays. Most out-of-state cruise guests arrive via rideshare or hotel shuttle.

The port’s terminals handle an average of nearly 25,000 cruisers daily, with a single-day record of over 75,000 passengers set in late 2025.

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