Category Archives: All – Vacation Inspiration

The Transformative Power of Adventure Travel

Transformative Experiences That Change You Adventure travel does more than break routine—it challenges, inspires, and reconnects us with the world. Whether hiking the alpine trails of Chamonix, dogsledding in Norway, or skiing in Antarctica, these experiences are attainable with thoughtful planning and the right guidance. Reconnect With Nature Standing at the edge of Lac Blanc […]

What Is an Expedition Cruise? A Deeper, Immersive Way to Travel

Expedition cruising is the ultimate immersive travel experience. Unlike traditional cruises, expedition-style voyages focus on exploration, education, and access to remote destinations that larger ships simply can’t reach. These small-ship journeys take travelers into nature and local cultures, offering a hands-on approach to discovery. Imagine exploring coastal waterways in a small zodiac boat, observing wildlife […]

From Pole to Pole (and In Between) – Luxury Expedition and Exploration Cruises

The Silver Endeavour, the most recent expedition ship added to Silversea’s fleet, will transport you to the South Pole in winter and the Arctic Circle in summer – in luxurious style and comfort!  The all-suite accommodations offer balcony views, and a personal butler to attend to your every need.  With four restaurants offering world-class cuisine […]

Cruise to a Private Island for a Relaxing Beach Day

Most cruise lines operating in the Caribbean have an exclusive “private island” for the enjoyment of their guests.  On these islands you don’t have to compete with tourists from other ships or tours for beach space or amenities.  And there are some really amazing amenities! Royal Caribbean’s Coco Cay is a picturesque setting in the […]

Yacht Cruising – The Ultimate Cruise Experience

Whether you decide on ocean cruising or river cruising, your Travel Leaders cruise expert will help you find a luxury yacht experience that will go above and beyond your expectations.  What does “luxury” actually mean on these small ships?  Most have a maximum guest capacity of 300 passengers or less (some much less), a service […]

Cairo & the Nile: Where Ancient Wonders Meet Modern Life

Preparation: Toss sliced onions with salt and cornstarch and fry over medium heat in 1 inch of oil until golden brown (about 10 minutes) Drain onions on paper towel and reserve, saving the remaining oil In a heavy pot, add  a bit of the reserved oil and crushed garlic and fry just until fragrant. Add […]

See Alaska Beyond Its Shoreline

Cruising the Alaskan coastline is a wilderness experience you’ll never forget.  Cruising past magnificent glaciers and majestic fjords, sighting shore birds, seals and maybe even a whale or bear is all so awe-inspiring and so different from other cruise experiences.  Shore excursions like hiking the Mendenhall Glacier, experiencing native Tlingit culture in Ketchikan, and “flightseeing” […]

5 Insider Insights Everyone Should Know Before Starting Their Travel Planning Journey 

Thinking about turning your passion for travel into a business? Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a travel agent or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, here are five key things many agents wish they knew before taking the plunge — and why partnering with experienced pros can make all the difference! 1️⃣ […]

How to Choose a Mediterranean Cruise

Cruise lines offer several Mediterranean cruise itineraries, and depending on your interests, Travel Leaders can help you find the perfect one. Western Mediterranean itineraries hit iconic cities like Barcelona, Rome and Marseilles.  View Gaudi’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia and eat authentic paella in Barcelona.  Speaking of masterpieces, in Rome you’ll see works by Michaelangelo and […]

Polar Expeditions: Explore the Majesty of Nature’s Last Frontiers

Polar expeditions are cruises like no other – you’ll be traveling where most people will never go and experiencing natural wonders, some of which are still a mystery to scientists.   These expedition ships are specially designed to withstand the rigors of a harsh environment, allowing cruisers unique access to these remote wilderness areas without […]

Caribbean Cruising – So Many Choices!!

Sail the Eastern Caribbean on one of Royal Caribbean’s massive, well-appointed ships.  These ships are especially family friendly, offering lots of onboard activities, flexible dining options and interesting ports of call.  Visit Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic for superb beach activities, stroll the streets of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico to soak up its […]

From Gaudí to Gourmet: Discovering the Flavors of Barcelona

Instructions: Bring 3 c water to a rolling boil, add lobster and cook 1-2 minutes until pink.  Remove lobster (reserving water), peel off the shell and cut into large chunks. Heat oil over medium heat, add onion, turn the heat to medium high and saute for 2 minutes.  Add the rice and continue to cook […]

VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA

Instructions: Add onion and ginger pieces to a large pot and cook over medium heat 3-4 minutes Add remaining ingredients except meat and vermicelli to pot, bring to boil and simmer over low heat 30-40 minutes Prepare noodles according to package instructions, drain, rinse and set aside Add sliced pork to pot and cook until […]