4 Cruise Experiences Worth the Splurge

Since your cruise fare is already a big purchase, you must ensure that the extras you’ll spend are worth it.

Here are four essential items that will make your cruise even better.

A Spacious Suite

A spacious cabin with a balcony and high-end amenities is ideal for those who want to enjoy their cruise in style. While many cruisers choose to stay in a stateroom as a place to keep their clothes and get some sleep, they often spend most of their time interacting with new people on the ship.

It’s also an excellent option for couples who want to spend time together and celebrate a special occasion. While many cruise lines offer various suites, larger ones are often equipped with perks and upgrades. Some of these include private pools, spa services, and large balconies.

For instance, Princess Cruises offers a variety of suites up to 932 square feet. These cabins feature large balconies, priority disembarkation and embarkation, and an exclusive club dining experience.

Some of our favorite suites display a ship-within-a-ship concept, such as Norwegian Cruise Line’s The Haven and Celebrity’s The Retreat. These areas are designed to provide guests with exclusive dining rooms, private pool decks, and butler service.

Specialty Dining

If you’re a foodie, you’ll be pleased to know that numerous dining options on cruise ships feature a variety of cuisines. These experiences may be worth the splurge.

A variety of American-style restaurants, seafood houses, and French bistros are found onboard cruise ships. Various options feature chef-driven dining experiences, such as multi-course dinners with wine pairings.

Since your dining experience is a significant part of your trip, you must spend a bit of money to explore the options the ship offers. Usually, restaurants come with a la carte or cover charges, and you can sometimes get a break by pre-booking a package that includes multiple establishments.

Spa Services

One of the best places to start if you’re looking for relaxation and rejuvenation is by taking a break from your busy schedule and visiting the spa onboard a cruise ship. The onboard spa can provide various services, such as massage and deep-tissue therapy.

If that’s too intense, you can book a day pass or a cruise-length pass that will allow you access to the thermal spa, steam rooms, hot pools, and saunas.

A Great Excursion

Suppose you’re planning on traveling to an iconic destination, such as Vienna or Alaska. In that case, you may have to spend more to fully enjoy the many signature experiences offered there. A helicopter ride to the top of the glaciers, a concert in the capital, or a famous Louver visit will complete your travel experience in style.

Getting to know the locations you visit through cruise excursions is a great way to enhance your appreciation of the places you’ve seen.

This blog was previously published on February 2, 2023 at IvanaDeDomenico.net

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Airplane Travel Tips With Young Children

Getting on an airplane can be very stressful, especially for young children. They might not want to sit still for long periods, and they’re scared of the sudden changes in air pressure.

Having the proper planning and preparation can help make traveling stress-free. 

Prep Your kids

It is best if your kids have a good understanding of what to expect. It can help make traveling with kids much more enjoyable. Try watching a YouTube video that explains various aspects of a flight.

Dress in Layers

When flying with a toddler, be sure to prepare for temperature changes. Dress children in comfortable layers without buttons or zippers. She also recommends choosing slip-on shoes with no laces. It’s also okay to use pull-ups for travel even if your child is recently potty trained.

Pack Wisely

Flight attendants suggest parents pack enough food and other items for their kids. It’s unlikely there will be food on the plane tempting for children, and there will be limited options for comfort items.

Some parents bring too much to keep their kids entertained, forgetting they’ll have to remove everything from the plane.

When packing for the plane ride, use this list as a guide.

• Comfort item: Pacifier or blanket
• Sanitizer, wipes, pull-ups, and diapers. (One diaper per hour of travel)
• Tablet with your kids’ favorite movies or shows. 
• Kid-size headphones
• Trash bag 
• Buy some water when you get through security.
• Snacks

Stay Calm

You can’t try to soothe the passenger who complains whenever your kid sneezes or giggles. Everyone on the plane will support you as long as you’re trying. According to Patience, a flight attendant, an adult with a hard time dealing with a screaming child should focus on their child.

Kid-Friendly Airline

A family-friendly airline is known to want happy, occupied kids. To accommodate this, several major companies have created special programs designed to make traveling with kids as enjoyable as possible. For instance, United Airlines has a new activity kit designed to keep kids entertained while flying.

United’s new kit includes various kid-friendly activities and supplies, such as a mask, a travel journal, and a sanitizing wipe. Another perk to consider is an airport with kid-friendly areas that can be used for playing and relaxing.

This blog was previously published on February 7, 2023 at IvanaDeDomenico.net

Emerging Travel Trends in 2023 | Ivana De Domenico

After almost two years of being confined to our home, the world opened up this year. We were finally able to explore new places and revisit old favorites. Whether we were planning on traveling across the globe or simply taking in a unique experience, this was a momentous year for us.

In 2023, travelers will be taking a step further in improving their experiences by positively impacting the people they meet and the places they visit. They’ll be diving deeper into mind-blowing wellness practices and making significant changes to their travel arrangements to protect the planet.

Transformative Retreats

This year, travel will become a growing opportunity for people to transform themselves through transformative retreats.

After a year of traveling for relaxation, rejuvenation, and fun, in 2023, we’ll be taking advantage of the opportunity to improve ourselves through transformative retreats. These retreats will help people find their life’s mission, identify their physical capabilities, and overcome grief.

One of the most effective ways to start planning a retreat is through Healing Holidays, which aggregates various retreats based on the type of experience you’re looking for. For instance, Euphoria, a retreat in Greece, will feature group sessions and dance therapy.

Modular Hotels

Rather than being a gimmick, flat-packed hotels are built on the principles of prefabricated architecture and modular housing. These buildings are constructed using factory-made components and then shipped to their destination.

In 2017, Habitas opened its first flat-packed hotel in Mexico. The hotel caters to travelers looking for a more refined and stylish experience.

The company also established a factory in Mexico using the latest technology to produce flat-packed hotel components. Unlike traditional buildings, these structures are not poured and can be assembled on-site in less than a year. Instead of heavy-handed construction, these hotels blend with the natural features of their surrounding areas.

The company’s rapid growth is also related to the rising construction costs. This method is more cost-efficient and allows Habitas to expand its operations at a fast pace.

Not Your Mother’s All Inclusive

Those who are well-traveled usually find it hard to believe that a vacation can be complete without going outside the resort. Innovative brands are now addressing this issue by implementing a more rootsy approach.

Unfortunately, the term “all-inclusive” is associated with disdain by luxury travelers. Most well-traveled people usually find it hard to believe that a vacation can be complete without having to go outside the resort. The good news is that many beautiful properties are now offering a new spin on the concept.

One of the most beautiful properties currently offering a new approach to the concept is The Gallivant, located in Sussex. The hotel’s three-course dinner menu features local ingredients such as lobster with Maldon rock oysters, wood-fired lamb rump, and Kentish blue cheese beignets.

The rise of smart stays has made it easy for people to save money on their holidays. They can avoid unpleasant surprises by being more aware of where their money is going.

This blog was previously published on January 4, 2023 at ivanadedomenico.net

New Destinations to Add to Your Travel Bucket List | Ivana De Domenico

Are you looking for some new travel bucket list ideas? Here are some of the world’s best places to visit, so you can always find something new to explore.

The Great Pyramid of Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the most stunning travel bucket list goals. It’s the oldest and largest of the seven ancient wonders of the world, constructed over 5,000 years ago. 

It’s a symbol of the Egyptian world and human ingenuity.

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is a must-visit for anyone interested in China’s history. It’s one of the Seven wonders of the world.

The Great Wall of China consists of various walls and fortifications. It spans over 8,000 kilometers long. Start from Beijing to see this magnificent symbol of China. 

Petra

The city of Petra is a fantastic example of rose-colored sandstone architecture. Petra is as notorious an archeological site in the Arabian desert as the dead sea.

The city’s sandstone architecture adds to its beauty. It features various notable structures such as tombs, temples, and monasteries.

The Colosseum

The Colosseum, also referred to as the Flavian Amphitheater, is one of Rome’s most exciting ancient sights. It’s an amazing example of Roman architecture and engineering.

The Colosseum is the historical site of some of the most brutal and blood-thirsty historical contests.

Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza, located in Mexico’s Yutacan state, is the best place to visit for an ancient Mayan city with spectacular architecture and ruins. This is the right trip for anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of the Mayan people.

Machu Picchu

One of the most popular bucket list travel goals is to visit Peru and the lost city of Machu Picchu. Located on a mountain about 2,500 meters above sea level, you can take the train or hiking trails.

Peru’s Machu Picchu is a must-visit if you’re planning on traveling to South America. It’s a popular tourist destination and one of the best places in the world to visit.

The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum constructed between 1631 and 1648 in the city of Agra in memory of the Mughal Emperor Shah Janan. It’s considered one of the world’s most significant Muslim art pieces.

The Taj Mahal has become a must-visit for anyone traveling to India. It’s currently attracting around 3 million tourists each year, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.

Christ the Redeemer

The Christ the Redeemer statue is on Mount Corcovado overlooking Rio de Janeiro. This, too, is one of the seven wonders of the world. Tourists enjoy its breathtaking views.

The statue of Jesus, standing with his arms open, is one of Brazil’s most photographed and recognized landmarks.

Stonehenge

The prehistoric monument Stonehenge is also a must-visit for anyone planning to travel to England. 

In Salisbury, the massive structure known as Stonehenge was constructed around 5,000 years ago and is a sacred site.

The Amazon Rainforest and River

The Amazon rainforest is one of the world’s most significant oxygen-producing regions. It’s composed of various vegetation types and eco-system.

The Amazon rainforest offers a unique experience for travelers who want to experience a lifetime’s worth of moments. You can visit this region from Peru or Brazil.

This blog was previously published on January 10, 2023 at ivanadedomenico.net

Fun Family Christmas Getaway Ideas

It’s hard enough to choose the ideal Christmas destination for your entire family, let alone make it happen on your own. Some families choose to involve their kids in the decision-making process, while others prefer to stay close to home. Some factors to remember when planning a trip are the cost of the destination and its child-friendly environment. Once you have gotten past the planning stage, you’ll be able to enjoy a truly magical and memorable holiday.

Tropical Christmas

If you’re not looking for a white Christmas, then a Caribbean vacation might be the perfect choice for you and your family. The region is known for its beautiful beaches, swaying coconut trees, and worry-free environment. Many of the islands have resorts that feature kid-friendly water parks. Before you start planning a trip, make sure that you book flights. If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway during Christmas, consider places such as Turks and Caicos and Jamaica, which have shorter flight times. You can dip in some of the area’s best-known attractions, such as the Blue Hole and Dunn’s River Falls. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, head to Seven Mile Beach at Beaches Negril. This resort features a water park right on the beach.

Winter Wonderland

Some people enjoy Christmas in the cold, while others want to spend it inside. A chill-out Christmas allows one to engage in various activities associated with the season, such as getting dressed for the holiday and warming one’s toes by the fireplace. A mountain trip might be the ideal choice if you’re looking for something a bit more challenging. Various places are located in the mountains, such as Aspen, Vail, Park City, and Jackson Hole. During a trip to these areas, you can spend the day participating in various activities, and at the end of the day, you can gather around a fire with some hot chocolate and your loved ones.

Exciting Theme Parks

If you’re planning on taking a trip during the Christmas season, then a theme park might be the ideal choice. It’s essential to note that this experience only lasts once a year. Some of the best places to visit during the holiday season are Hersheypark and Santa’s Enchanted Forest, the oldest holiday theme park in the world which features over a hundred rides. If you’re looking for something more festive, visit Santa’s Workshop in New York, which features an old-fashioned experience known as Christmas at the North Pole. This experience, which has been going on since 1949, offers a variety of activities and one-on-one interactions with Santa. A theme park is an excellent choice if you plan on having a family Christmas getaway, as it will allow you and your loved ones to experience the holiday season differently.

Small Town Charm

Christmas vacations in small towns are typically out of the ordinary, which is why they’re so enticing. These trips will allow you and your family to enjoy a more peaceful holiday. Santa Claus Town in Indiana is one of the best places to visit during the holiday season. In Santa Claus Town, you’ll find a variety of holiday-themed attractions and restaurants. If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, head to New York to visit the town of Skaneateles, known for its annual Dickens Christmas event.

Originally published at IvanaDeDomenico.net

Best Countries to Visit in Winter

If you’re a winter lover, you’ll want to experience a snowy wonderland. During December, some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world turn to snow. If you’re planning on traveling for a Christmas market or a ski holiday, these countries will give you the perfect excuse to get dressed up and enjoy a magical adventure.

Japan

Although Japan is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms, winter is also a popular tourist season. The silver season provides lesser numbers of tourists to enjoy the country’s renowned snow regions.

Hokkaido, located in northern Japan, is known for its various winter festivals and seafood delicacies. During this season, it also offers plenty of ski activities and tours. One is a trip on an icebreaker ship through the Okhotsk Sea.

The northern Alps, which include areas such as the Hakuba Valley and the Shiga Kogen, are known for their dramatic scenery and exquisite snow-covered peaks. These areas offer Olympic-quality ski resorts. In addition, you can enjoy onsen areas and hot springs at the Jigokudani monkey park.

Finland

The country experiences a period of cold weather during December. Although the average temperature in Finland is -4 degrees Celsius, the temperature in the north can drop to as low as -15 degrees Celsius.

In Finnish Lapland, you can see the Northern Lights, visible from your bed, for about 200 nights each year. Finland’s magical Lapland region is known for its numerous ski slopes, which range from towering peaks to family-friendly runs. It also has plenty of winter activities, such as reindeer safaris and visits to Santa Claus Village.

Austria

Austria is one of the most popular winter destinations in Europe. The country’s numerous ski areas are known for their quality. During winter, it also has plenty of activities and attractions.

During the Christmas season, Vienna is known for its charming Christmas markets. These areas are filled with Christmas-themed activities, such as candle-making and roasting chestnuts.

One of the best ways to experience Austria’s different side is by visiting one of its beautiful Alpine villages. Known as Hallstatt, this area has been attracting thousands of tourists daily due to its magnificent mountain backdrop and pastel-colored houses. It’s also believed that the area inspired Arendelle from the popular Disney movie “Frozen.”

Greenland

Greenland is a country that’s known for its beautiful winter season. The region features magnificent fjords, towering glaciers, and coastal towns covered in white snow. Temperatures in Greenland typically stay below 0 degrees Celsius during December.

The coastline of Greenland is filled with inlets and fjords, areas where massive ice sheets melt and form spectacular glaciers. One of the most popular areas to visit is Narsap Sermia. It can be reached from Nuuk with a short hike.

Another must-do while in Greenland is taking a boat trip to explore the region’s fjords and oceans. One of the most popular ways to do this is by traveling on Greenland’s passenger ferry, the Sarfaq Ittuk. This trip will allow you to see Greenland’s enormous icebergs and rare whales. It also stops at the small settlements located in the region.

The winter season offers various activities and travel experiences that are unlike any other. Besides packing for the cold weather, taking adequate safety precautions, and ensuring that you have the necessary travel insurance, having the proper coverage is also essential for winter travel.

Originally published at IvanaDeDomenico.net

Must-Haves for Long Plane Rides

Before leaving for the trip, you packed all your belongings into your suitcase. Now, it’s time to pack your items for the long flight. We have a few essential things you should pack for your trip.

Refillable Water Bottle

Getting enough water is the most critical factor that affects your health during a long flight. It can help keep you hydrated and prevent various ailments like jet lag. Besides being more practical, refilling a water bottle can also save you money. Most airports have hydration stations that are located in the terminals. Before going through security, make sure that the bottle is empty.

Comfortable Headphones

One of the most critical factors you should consider when it comes to traveling is the availability of comfortable and comfortable headphones. This will allow you to keep up with your activities and favorite TV shows. Before you leave for the trip, download a relaxing playlist and have a good sleep. You can also access this content through an app like Spotify Premium.

Good Snacks

The type of food that you eat during a flight will affect how your body will react to traveling. We suggest avoiding greasy foods or things that can cause bloating before the flight. Instead, pack light snacks such as nuts, cheese, and crackers. Gum can also help remove bad breath and relieve ear pressure while taking off and landing.

Mini Toiletry Essentials

These are some of the most practical items you should pack for long flights. Pack a shea butter, Papaw Ointment, and Mist Spray to keep your skin fresh. For hygiene, take a disposable toothbrush, hand sanitizer, and dry shampoo. Medicine is one of the most critical items you should pack for long flights. Make sure that you have all of your prescriptions in your carry-on.

Compression Socks

For optimal circulation, pack compression clothing, especially for long flights. These will help your body adjust to the changes in pressure.

If you’re planning on taking a bathroom break, make sure you have comfortable shoes that keep you warm and dry. If you want to avoid shoes, try foldable slippers. Try tennis shoes or slip-on flats if you prefer to wear shoes that can go on and off quickly.

This blog was originally published at IvanaDeDomenico.net

Best Non-Touristy Island Getaways

When you think of an island getaway, the first thing that comes to mind is usually places such as Hawaii, Bali, and Santorini. However, there are also many hidden gems that you can visit that are not commonly associated with big-name isles.

If you’re planning a trip to an island, these are the places that you should consider. These are some lesser-known islands that are perfect for a non-stop adventure.

Côn Đảo, Vietnam

Although the island of Phú Quốc is often referred to as a mini-Phuket, those looking for something a bit different should head to Côn Đảo, which is a small archipelago located off Vietnam’s southeastern coast. An hour’s flight from Ho Chi Minh City will take you to this island, the largest of the group and only inhabited.

The cliffs of Côn Sơn are surrounded by crystal-blue water and are bordered by deserted beaches. Although there are a few budget-friendly accommodations on the island, some more upscale resorts include the Six Senses Con Dao and the Poulo Condor.

You can hire a local guide or rent a motorcycle to explore the island’s remote locations, such as the Dam Tre Bay lagoon and a 19th-century lighthouse.

Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

Are you looking for a place similar to Bali? Head to Gili Trawangan, which is a tiny island near Lombok. Although it’s not allowed to have motorized traffic, this place is still full of laid-back cafes and dive centers. The daily schedule includes fishing, diving, and drinking at Le Petit Gili, a ramshackle establishment.

Situated on the island’s southern coast is Pondok Santi Estate, which has thatched-roof villas surrounded by tropical gardens. You can also take a ferry to Mount Rinjani, an active volcano on the neighboring island of Lombok.

Pico, Portugal

The island of Pico was once regarded as the last outpost of Columbus before he left for his expedition. Those who visit this place are treated to exceptional wines, and the footpaths through its lava landscapes are also very interesting.

The Pocinho Bay, located in the middle of a UNESCO-designated wine-producing area, offers six luxury beach-front villas with views of the Atlantic Ocean. For dinner, head to Ancoradouro for a taste of local specialties.

Sandön, Sweden

Due to its location, which is surrounded by a forest of pine trees and moss, Sweden’s Sandön is a perfect location for writers. This island is also known for its light fog, which can often obscure the view from the beaches. If you’re staying in one of the island’s isolated villages, check into the Sands Hotell or the Missionshuset Bed & Breakfast.

One of the island’s most popular attractions is the Sandhamns Värdshus, a pub and restaurant serving traditional Swedish dishes. For dinner, try the house-marinated herring dish or the pytt i panna, a traditional dish consisting of fried egg and beets.

Scrub Island, British Virgin Islands

Situated in the British Virgin Islands, Scrub was once a stop for explorers. It was uninhabited until the opening of the Scrub Island Spa & Marina. This luxury resort features a variety of activities, such as sea kayaking and island hopping. One of the island’s most popular attractions is a sunrise hike.

This blog was originally published at IvanaDeDomenico.net

5 Great YouTube Channels To Check Out If You Love Travel

Travel vlogging has become all the rage since the dawn of platforms like YouTube. Between that and our smartphones, it’s easier than ever to record your trips around the globe and share them with the Internet. There are hundreds if not thousands of incredible travel YouTube channels out there where these vloggers share updates from their trips as well as much more. Here are a few of the best out there.

Fearless and Far

Mike Corey is the creator of Fearless and Far, a series of videos that explore strange and wonderful places that most people wouldn’t think of. He aims to encourage people to face their fears and travel the world. His approach to travel is similar to that of an extreme sport, and his experiences are often wild and crazy. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush when watching travel videos, this is the channel for you.

Hey Nadine

Travel expert and seasoned globetrotter, Nadine Sykora, uses her positive and infectious energy to create content that is uplifting and entertaining. Her approach to storytelling has helped her become an inspiration for young people who are interested in exploring the world. Her videos are full of useful advice and tips, and she’s a great resource for anyone who is looking to get away from their boring world and jump into a life of adventure.

Kold

Canadian adventurer and filmmaker Sam Kold is known for his exceptional travel videos. His work is full of cinematic masterpieces, and he’s also a great resource for aspiring filmmakers. His channel, Kold, is a variety of high-quality travel content and educational videos. Among his other skills is his ability to shoot drone shots and backflip off tall buildings. Come to Kold’s channel if you’re looking for engaging storytelling and gorgeous camera shots that will make you feel like you’re there yourself.

Mark Wiens

Mark Wiens is a travel vlogger who believes that food is the most important reason to travel. You might already know his channel by its previous name, Migrationology. His videos are full of entertaining and informative travel experiences, and he frequently travels to different regions to try and find the best food. He lives in Thailand with his wife, and he often travels to other countries located across the globe to try and find the best food.

Sorelle Amore

Sorelle Amore is a quirky bundle of energy who is known for her YouTube channel, which is filled with a variety of home updates and photography tips. Her videos are very authentic and have no forced or superficial feel. Her goal is to inspire people to be more creative and confident. She’s always striving to be a better person, and she’s also dedicated to inspiring others to do the same. Recently, she moved to Iceland, and her new videos are very entertaining if you’re interested in that country in particular.

This article was originally published on IvanaDeDomenico.net

4 Great Travel Podcasts To Check Out In 2022

Podcasts have become extremely popular in recent years as a form of entertainment. They allow people to listen to discussions about their favorite topics, get the latest news, and so much more. Travel podcasts in particular have become quite popular, with podcast hosts often sharing their travel stories and giving tips and tricks for their listener’s travels. There are a lot of wonderful travel podcasts out there though, so it might seem a bit overwhelming at first. Here are a few of the best travel podcasts worth checking out in 2022.

The Travel Diaries

The Travel Diaries is a British podcast with a focus on traveling the world. Host Holly Rubenstein has access to some of the country’s most prominent personalities, writers, and actors – all of whom she invites on to talk about travel. The Travel Diaries is simple and effective. Each of its guests shares their own personal experiences with travel, from when they were young until today, weaving a narrative that oftentimes has the ability to transport the listener to new fantastic locations.

Greetings From Somewhere

Host Zach Mack is currently on a road trip across America, and he’s bringing his listeners an immersive experience through some of the country’s most engaging cities. The show is a slick production that combines investigative journalism with a travel narrative. From the first episode of the series and every episode onwards, Mack dives into the history and culture of each location he visits as he travels across the country. Through a combination of interviews and in-depth analysis, Mack is able to create an engaging and entertaining story.

Layovers

The Layovers podcast is a fun and entertaining way to discuss air travel. Host Paul Papadimitriou and his team take a look at current affairs and geopolitical issues through the lens of travel. Unlike other podcasts, they don’t zoom in on a particular topic. Instead, they take a deeper look at the global map. In one of their recent episodes, Paul and Alex discussed the possibility of an international travel golden age. They also talked about how we should move forward in an era of tighter borders and infection. Despite the wide variety of questions that people are asking, the Layovers team is always ready to answer.

Women Who Travel

Lale Arikoglu and Meredith Carey are both editors from the travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler as well as the hosts of the Women Who Travel Podcast. The hosts take a look into the travel industry as a whole, discussing travel journalism, the foods you find while traveling, hospitality, and much more. The best part? They give a uniquely female perspective on it all.

This article was originally published on IvanaDeDomenico.net