http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/rss/feedsTue, 05 May 2026 04:59:15 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/a-family-travel-guide-to-washington-dchttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/a-family-travel-guide-to-washington-dc Washington, D.C., is a perennial family travel favorite, and for good reason — the history, culture and sheer number of things to do make a trip to the nation’s capital a nearly obligatory American pilgrimage. But at the same time, the traffic and vast size of the “DMV” (District-Maryland-Virginia) — as it’s often called — can seem daunting to those tackling it with kids. Here are the top ways to make the most of a trip to D.C. and ensure a memorable experience for all ages. Stay at The Wharf When it comes to traveling with children, accessibility is key, whether your clients are searching for a great place to eat, a friendly lobby to take a load off or a changing station for a cranky baby. The Wharf D.C. serves as a vibrant launching pad for families exploring the city’s many family-friendly activities. Its southeast location on the Potomac River and proximity to public transportation make it an accessible and walkable hub, and its scenic promenades and amenities set the stage for an unforgettable visit to the capital. There are more than 80 restaurants and shops in the neighborhood, as well as a variety of hotels, including InterContinental Washington D.C. — The Wharf. The elegant and modern property has a rooftop pool that my son loved, and many of the guestrooms overlook the Potomac and the bustling walkway below. Use the Free Southwest Shuttle to Access Smithsonian Museums When it’s time to head out to, say, the National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of African American History and Culture, clients can swap a rental car for the Southwest Shuttle. This free, public and ADA-compliant bus (which means big enough to load on a double stroller) carries travelers from The Wharf to the National Mall from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. every weekday, making it easy for little feet to pound the pavement in search of arts and culture. Captain Your Own Vessel on the Potomac Seeing D.C. from the water is a truly incredible enterprise that any child will appreciate. But travelers don’t need a boat license to take to the Potomac. Instead, head to the Wharf Navy Yard and rent a GoBoat (drivers must be 21 or older), an electric vessel that can accommodate up to eight passengers. After a brief tutorial, clients can putter at 3 to 4 knots along one of the most famous rivers in the world. With my husband as captain at the helm, we tooled around on the water for an hour with friends — and my then 8-year-old said it was one of the highlights of our trip. Channel 007 at the International Spy Museum Blending the shadowy intrigue of covert operations with the boundless creativity of storytelling is D.C.’s International Spy Museum, an absolute must for parents of children ages 7 to 18. Families are introduced to the world of secret stealing and they also get to play a role in an interactive story that moves them through the five-story building. My son raved about seeing a Trabant, the quintessential Cold War car, and learned how to identify propaganda. It’s as much fun for kids as it is adults, all of whom will likely leave reconsidering an assignment with the Central Intelligence Agency. Play the Country's Oldest Miniature Golf Course D.C. has loads of historic sites, but one of the quirkiest and perhaps most kid-friendly is the Miniature Golf Course at East Potomac Golf Links, the oldest continuously operating miniature golf course in the nation. Built in 1931, it’s famous for its tiny replica obstacles that depict the Capitol, Mount Vernon and the White House. After a much-needed rehabilitation last year, the course reopened in fall 2024. Because it’s such a delicate course, visitors do need to book a tee time, and there’s a $15 fee for play. Pose With Historical Figures You can’t go to D.C. and not take children to see its famous monuments. Make sure clients wear their sneakers and take the shuttle to the National Mall. Morning is the best time to go, as the crowds are thinner and the air is cooler. Heading west, visitors can take their time exploring the Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial and Lincoln Memorial. Catch an Open-Air Concert Every Wednesday from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Wharf’s Transit Pier hosts free outdoor concerts — the perfect space to let kids boogie without the fear of any eye rolls. In fact, the series is so laid-back, dogs are equally as welcome. Every concert begins at 7 p.m., but it’s important to note that bench seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Where to Eat There is no shortage of great dining options in D.C., but clients staying in the Wharf area will do well to check out Mi Vida, a lively Mexican restaurant from culinary director and co-owner Roberto Santibanez (of chef/New York’s Fonda restaurants fame). While there is no kids' menu, the offerings are vast and the staff is eager to assist, be it with a simple plate of beans, rice and a taco or a full platter of enchiladas suizas (corn tortillas usually stuffed with chicken and topped with a creamy green sauce), depending on how adventurous the family's younger eaters are. If the crew needs more incentive, consider that The Wharf has not only a Kilwins ice cream shop, but also a Ben & Jerry’s and a Pitango gelato outlet. Tue, 25 Mar 2025 07:07:00 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/top-10-fall-destinations-to-visit-in-the-usahttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/top-10-fall-destinations-to-visit-in-the-usa Written by Archer Travel Service - October 8 at 8:51 AM As the vibrant hues of autumn leaves begin to blanket the landscape, there's no better time to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in the USA. Fall is a magical season that transforms everyday scenery into a kaleidoscope of color, making it the perfect time to embark on a cozy getaway. Whether you're looking for breathtaking natural beauty, seasonal festivities, or simply a peaceful retreat, we've rounded up the top 10 fall destinations you should visit this year. 1. New England (Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine) New England is the quintessential fall destination. With its rolling hills, scenic byways, and endless forests, you'll witness one of the most stunning displays of autumn foliage in the country. Take a drive through Vermont's Green Mountains, hike in New Hampshire's White Mountains, or explore Maine’s coastal towns for a picture-perfect fall experience. 2. Aspen, Colorado Aspen is renowned for its golden aspen trees, which create a dazzling contrast against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. This Colorado gem offers more than just stunning foliage—hiking, biking, and scenic drives will let you fully experience the natural beauty. Plus, if you're into early skiing, Aspen’s slopes are ready by late fall. 3. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina The Great Smoky Mountains offer some of the best fall foliage in the South. Take a drive along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway for spectacular views, or hike the park’s many trails to immerse yourself in the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Don’t miss the fall festivals and apple harvest events in nearby Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. 4. Hudson Valley, New York Just a short drive from New York City, the Hudson Valley comes alive in the fall with wineries, apple orchards, and vibrant foliage. Visit charming small towns like Rhinebeck or Beacon, go apple picking, or take a scenic river cruise. The area is also home to plenty of cozy inns and farm-to-table restaurants, making it perfect for a relaxing fall retreat. 5. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia Shenandoah National Park is a hidden gem when it comes to fall getaways. The park’s Skyline Drive is one of the best routes for leaf-peeping, offering panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With over 200,000 acres of forest, waterfalls, and hiking trails, you’ll find countless ways to enjoy the season. 6. Lake Placid, New York Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is a charming fall destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With crystal-clear lakes surrounded by colorful trees, it’s a fantastic spot for hiking, boating, or simply enjoying the crisp mountain air. Visit Mirror Lake for a peaceful fall retreat, or explore the area's Olympic history for a dose of adventure. 7. Napa Valley, California Fall is also harvest season in Napa Valley, making it an excellent time to visit this wine lover's paradise. The vineyards turn golden and red, providing a stunning backdrop as you sip world-class wines. Enjoy a vineyard tour, indulge in gourmet food pairings, or take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the fall foliage. 8. Sedona, Arizona Known for its iconic red rock formations, Sedona is a surprising yet wonderful fall destination. While the desert landscape is more subdued in its autumn colors, Oak Creek Canyon offers a burst of foliage, creating a striking contrast against the red rocks. Enjoy hiking, off-roading, or simply taking in the views from a cozy resort. 9. Door County, Wisconsin Located on a scenic peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is a Midwest favorite in the fall. With charming lakeside villages, apple orchards, and picturesque lighthouses, it's the perfect place for a cozy retreat. Enjoy a lakeside drive or take a ferry to Washington Island for a peaceful fall escape. 10. The Berkshires, Massachusetts The Berkshires offer a combination of natural beauty and cultural experiences that make it an ideal fall getaway. Enjoy the region's stunning foliage as you explore charming towns like Lenox or Stockbridge, and don’t miss out on the area's renowned art galleries, music festivals, and farm-to-table restaurants. Planning the perfect fall getaway requires expert knowledge and attention to detail, and that’s where a travel agent comes in. So, before you pack your bags for a fall getaway, contact a travel agent and let them craft the perfect autumn escape for you. You deserve a stress-free vacation, and booking with an expert will ensure you make the most of this beautiful season. Tue, 08 Oct 2024 08:14:00 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/7-us-cities-that-are-perfect-for-family-travelhttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/7-us-cities-that-are-perfect-for-family-travelTravel insights from Jenna Buege, associate editor of The CompassAs the weather begins to warm, it’s time to start thinking about family travel, but you don’t have to go far! With so many exciting parks, museums and landmarks to see in the U.S., it’s an easy decision to stay stateside but it can be hard to decide which destination is right for you. Here are seven U.S. cities with the opportunity for tons of family fun to help you get started.1. Gatlinburg, TN One of the most popular destinations in the U.S. for family travel, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is full of fun and adventure for people of all ages. For a healthy dose of the great outdoors, begin your Gatlinburg expedition at Great Smoky Mountain National Park, one of America’s most iconic natural areas with endless winding trails and colorful bluffs to explore. After soaking in all of the sights, make your way into town where you’ll find a variety of tourist attractions such as local shops, adrenaline-fueled activities like mountain coasters and the Gatlinburg space needle and of course, plenty of fresh moonshine waiting to be enjoyed.2. New York City, NYBetween world-famous landmarks like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and Times Square and the unrivaled arts, culture and entertainment scene, a trip to NYC is a rite of passage for any young traveler. Spend your days navigating the subway system to popular attractions and museums around the city and spend your nights enjoying a Broadway show or devouring some classic New York pizza. If your family is of the thrill-seeking variety, don’t miss a day trip to Brooklyn’s Coney Island or the new Legoland New York Theme Park which is set to open July 4, 2020.3. Chicago, ILThanks to a variety of transportation options, visiting Chicago with the whole fam is easier than ever. Enjoy the scenic lakefront by bike, view the city from a new perspective with a boat tour, hop on the L train to make quick work of getting across town or rely on the oldest method of getting from here to there, and take in the sights by foot. Chicago is a place where finding something fun to do will never be an issue. Spend some time exploring the Museum of Science and Industry or the popular Shedd Aquarium for some educational fun, then make your way to Navy Pier where you can go for a spin on the Centennial Wheel, a massive Ferris wheel that soars nearly 200 feet and offers some of the greatest views of the surrounding area.4. Orlando, FLOrlando is well-established as a family destination and the recent opening of Sesame Street Land is just one more reason to check out the City Beautiful. Perfect for fun rain or shine, visit one of the many theme parks in the city like SeaWorld Orlando, Universal Orlando or Discovery Cove, absorb some knowledge at the Orlando Science Center or dabble in intrigue at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! for an action-packed time. When it’s time to eat, check out opt for a unique dining experience like the Medieval Times Dinner Tournament or Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, an elaborate themed restaurant with five-star cuisine.5. Portland, OR Don’t let Portland’s rainy reputation scare you away; the fabulous Pacific Northwest is ideal for a trip jam-packed with unbeatable nature, fine dining and unique culture. With 64 acres of activities including the Oregon Zoo, the Portland Children’s Museum, Hoyt Arboretum and the Portland Japanese Garden, Washington Park is a great place to begin your adventure. For an introduction to the city’s famous hipster lifestyle, visit the Portland Saturday Market, a weekly event that features the work of nearly 300 local artisans March through November. Of course no visit to the City of Roses would be complete without a hike or two and Cooper Mountain and Kelley Point Park are family-approved.6. St. Louis, MOVoyage to the friendly Midwest and discover St. Louis, a city with lots of interesting attractions that all will enjoy. Begin your visit on a high note with a stop at the City Museum, a wild labyrinth of slides, bridges, tunnels and secret passageways that is always evolving thanks to the help of local artists. After exploring like you never have before, visit the totally kid-friendly Anheuser Busch Brewery Tour. Yes, it may sound counterintuitive to take the kiddos to a brewery, but this tour isn’t the sloppy drunk-fest you might imagine. Instead, travelers will explore the famous and pristine Clydesdale Stables which house a number a massive Clydesdale horses, some of which were featured in Anheuser Busch advertisements throughout the years.7. San Diego, CAKick off the summer with a little action at SeaWorld San Diego where the new Mako Dive coaster will debut in May 2020. The coaster will be the tallest of SeaWorld’s thrill ride lineup and is being designed with a focus on shark awareness and conservation. For more wildlife, fun don’t miss the San Diego Zoo, which was voted the number one zoo in the world and is famous for its commitment to breeding and caring for endangered species found across the globe.Tue, 11 Jul 2023 10:50:00 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/4-caribbean-dishes-worth-traveling-forhttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/4-caribbean-dishes-worth-traveling-forThe Caribbean is famous for many things. Sun, sand and surf come to mind, but these island destinations are also a hot spot for something you can really sink your teeth into: mouth-watering local dishes. Foodies rejoice, we’ve crafted a list of some of the most delicious dishes throughout the Caribbean so, put away the travel maps and start thinking with your stomach. Aruba - funchi Funchi is an Aruban staple. This side dish consists of cornmeal cooked in water, butter and salt. Legend has it funchi was stirred by old-time cooks throughout the centuries while repeating the words, “un pai mi, un pa bo, un pe.” One for me, one for you, one for him. Often referred to as Aruba’s polenta, funchi is boiled until almost completely stiff and served with soups and stews. The dish is customizable and can be tweaked by the chef to be served sweet or savory. Bahamas – cracked conch Did you know you can eat conch (pronounced konk) meat? As entertaining as it is to hold a conch shell to your ear and “hear the ocean,” these mysterious mollusks are much better suited as a meal. Cracked conch is pounded, breaded and fried similar to a cutlet of meat. After the conch meat is sizzled to perfection it’s often paired with Creole sauce, a red, vegetable-based sauce, popular to Bahamian cuisine. Cayman Islands – cassava cake (heavy cake) If things get better with age, cassava cake is on the brink of perfection. The recipe for this flavorful dessert began as a happy accident over 200 years ago. Rumor has it that an unknown 19th century chef was attempting to make sweet cassava porridge but got a little distracted in the process. Over time the cassava cake became a local Cayman Island favorite, so much so that many refer to it as the unofficial national dessert. At this point you must be asking, “so, what’s this thing made of?” Traditional cassava cake is made with shredded cassava, coconut milk, cinnamon, vanilla and cornstarch. The result is a dense, moist cake with a gooey chew. It’s best experienced with a visit to the Cayman Islands for their annual Taste of Cayman Food and Wine Festival. Cuba - medianoche sandwich You’ve heard of the El Cubano (Cuban sandwich), no doubt, but the island is home to another, allegedly tastier, sandwich that’s almost exactly identical: the medianoche. Roast pork, Swiss cheese, ham and pickles, the medianoche is made with the exact same ingredients as a Cubano. So what’s the difference? It’s all in the bread. This popular sandwich is made using a soft, egg-based roll versus the harder, lard-based bread used in a Cubano. While swapping one type of bread for another may sound minimal, locals insist the medianoche has the Cubano beat. Let your travelers’ stomachs make the reservations next time they’re planning a Caribbean adventure with you. Food and fun go hand-in-hand with these amazing destinations. Travel insights from Jenna Buege, associate editor of The Compass Mon, 21 Nov 2022 17:24:00 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/live-boricua--discover-puerto-ricohttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/live-boricua--discover-puerto-rico It’s time to book Puerto Rico. To immerse in simple pleasures, dramatic sunsets, and numerous ways to embrace nature. It’s time for warm welcomes and ice-cold piña coladas. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers the allure of an exotic locale with a rich, vibrant culture and unparalleled natural offerings, without needing a passport or currency exchange. Accessibility to the Island has never been easier, with direct flights from domestic locations like New York, Charlotte, Dallas, Atlanta, and Detroit, to name a few. Lodging options range from luxurious beachfront resorts to magical historic inns, and everything in between. High standards of health and safety have been implemented throughout the Island, including local measures developed by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC), alongside U.S. Travel Association (USTA) guidelines. Outdoor adventures will continue to be an attractive alternative for visitors looking to travel safely. You can spend the day hiking in El Yunque National Forest or kayaking through bioluminescent bays, where the water lights up beneath them. A whole world awaits in Puerto Rico, ready to be safely explored. Whether it’s relaxation or adventure they seek, this Island paradise is waiting. You can leave your worries and passports behind as you snorkel under pristine beaches and zipline through tropical rainforests. Our backyard is a playground, where there is always something extraordinary to discover. Home to one of the world’s largest dry forests, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, hundreds of underground caves, 18 golf courses and so much more. The culture is equally impressive, steeped in European architecture, eclectic flavors of Spanish, Taino and African origins, and rich history – and welcomes visitors with genuine, warm Island hospitality. Explore the authentic local cuisine, the beat of captivating music and dance, and the bustling nightlife, which blended, create a unique energy you won’t find anywhere else.Mon, 08 Aug 2022 11:32:00 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/greece-travel-guidehttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/greece-travel-guide Welcome to Greece A country which everyone has heard of – even if only because of middle school history class, even if only because of Zeus and Poseidon. Greece is a destination that occupies a grand place in humanity’s hearts and souls. Not just those of “Westerners”, but any person who lives in the modern world of science, philosophy, and democracy – all ideas that these islands were developing over two thousand years ago. Today, Greece continues to be a prime destination. It’s rugged, dotted both with mighty volcanoes, and the sort of blissful resorts that many people don’t look for in Europe. And – most of all – it’s unique. Situated east of much of “Eastern” Europe, its culture isn’t really a mix of the East and the West, as much as something that stands alone. With its own customs, its own, long history, and its own language – written in an alphabet that nobody else uses, but was one of the planet’s first – Greece truly is special. Read MoreThu, 04 Nov 2021 20:56:00 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/the-top-five-reasons-to-go-to-cancun-besides-the-obvious-onehttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/the-top-five-reasons-to-go-to-cancun-besides-the-obvious-oneThe top five reasons to go to Cancún (besides the obvious one!) Okay, you don’t really need five reasons to go to Cancún. One should suffice: the beach in this city, if you’ve ever seen photos of it! But here are five reasons more that you should be packing your bags and setting out on a trip to the glorious Mexican Caribbean: 1. Check out – or, better yet, check into – the Moon Palace: one of the region’s top ten beach resorts, and all-inclusive to boot. Swimming pools? How about ten. Places to eat? The resort has a good twenty. Golf? Check. Spas? There are several. When you come to Cancún, you’re going to be at a premiere spot right on the Caribbean ocean. So let yourself get pampered a little! 2. If you’re at all into ancient history, one of the best sites – and by far less crowded than the more well-known Chichen Itza – is Tulum, an easy day trip from the tip of the peninsula. You can wander these wonderful ruins alone or with a guide. (But if you actually want to learn anything about the ancients who built it, you’ll need a guide!) On the stone, iguanas pose so that you can take selfies. Overall, it’s an appropriate place on the shores of the Caribbean: relaxed. 3. Right off the coast from Cancún, the Isla Mujeres isn’t only for women. (And that’s despite the name meaning “women’s island” in Spanish!) Here you can enjoy the relaxed vibe of a Caribbean, while keeping the skyline of the city in sight. Spend a relaxing afternoon at the beach, between two of the best meals you’ll eat in Cancún. This island is renowned for its food, | TravelAgentSociety.com |and you’ll find everything – from superb Italian and French flavours to wonderful, local Mayan and Yucatecan cuisine. 4. While the Tulum ruins are right on the beach, the ruins of Cobá are tucked away in the jungle. However, they are well worth the extra effort to get to. At Cobá, you’re allowed to climb one of the ancient Mayan pyramids, and get the reward of a spectacular vista across the Yucatán jungle. Furthermore, you’ll be enveloped by the feeling of authenticity: these ruins today are as surrounded by the ever-encroaching forest as they must have been ages ago. Cobá is a must-see – and the drive from Cancún is less than two hours! 5. Tired of beaches and ruins? Then it’s time to hit the clubs! The best club in Cancún, by far, is Coco Bongo – a huge dance club with a thousand incredible acts, any one of which will make you forget that you’re not in Las Vegas! Tickets come with unlimited drinks, and the club stays open well past the USA’s mandated closing time for such establishments. Dance the night away – and then sleep all day at the beach. You’re in Cancún! Tue, 13 Apr 2021 13:05:00 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/shop-dubais-soukshttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/shop-dubais-souksIf you’ve ever heard of shopping in Dubai – or in much of the Arab world – the word “souk” is sure to have come up. “Souk” is just a word for an Arab market. And Dubai’s souks are incredible. Famed since the nineteenth century, the city’s souks – rather than oil – are what contributed to its vast wealth. In fact, it’s the only one of the seven emirates in the UAE that acquired its wealth from something other than oil! Here are some of the must-see (and must-shop-at!) souks in Dubai: ● The Gold Souk is both the best known and the most popular of Dubai’s many souks. And, true to its name, gold is sold here. Along with silver, gemstones, and countless handmade examples of fine jewelry. ● It’s located in Deira, the city’s centre, and easily accessible from Al Ras metro station (green line). ● Another must-see souk for anyone visiting Arabia is the Spice Souk – just a few minutes’ walk from the Gold Souk. The alleys are narrow and crammed full of merchants selling the exotic spices famed in the Orient: cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, saffron, turmeric, coriander, sumac, and nutmeg. ● A great Middle Eastern shopping experience can be found at the Perfume Souk. It’s a collection of perfume shops on Sikkat Al Khail Road, an easy walk from the others. International perfumes are available, but it would be more worth your time to buy a local Arabic perfume, sold in an ornate jar. ● The Old Souk, or Textile Souk, is a long line of sand-coloured stone buildings (renovated, of course). The shops here offer a huge range of fabrics, from cashmere and silk to cotton and wool. You can also buy ready-made garments, slippers, and | TravelAgentSociety.com | souvenirs. It can be reached from the others by crossing the water on an abra or water taxi. Or take the metro’s green line to Al Ghubaiba or Al Fahidi stations. In addition to these older souks, Dubai has its own, modern take on the tradition: ● The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is part of the massive Madinat Jumeirah complex. Where you can shop to your heart’s content, and then dine at one of the numerous restaurants. ● The Souk Al Bahar is downtown Dubai’s answer to the Souk Madinat Jumeirah. It’s main draw is its restaurants, located right on the water, with great views of the Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa. ● Khan Murjan is also worth checking out. It’s located in Wafi city, and entirely underground, inspired by a 14th century Baghdad meeting place. Haggling is possible anywhere in Dubai, though you’re more likely to be successful in the older, historic souks. The only exception is the Gold Souk, where prices are based on the value of the materials used. The only negotiable part is the artisan’s charge, which is generally 10-20% of the total cost of the item. Those are some of the city’s best souks; there are, of course, others. But shopping in Dubai is a must-have experience. Just don’t be surprised if it takes a whole day!Mon, 21 Dec 2020 12:26:00 -0700http://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/us-coastline-cruisinghttp://www.purplepassiontravel.com/blog/post/us-coastline-cruising Home to some of the most popular cities in the U.S., the Atlantic and Pacific coasts make for wonderful vacation spots and are totally cruise friendly. So pack your bags and prepare to say “bon voyage” as you set sail for one of these fabulous domestic destinations Atlantic Coast From sunny Florida to picturesque Maine, passengers who travel the Atlantic Coast will visit sleepy towns and famous cities, savor decedent seafood dishes of fresh lobster and clam chowder and enjoy stunning scenery along the way. Some of this route’s most iconic attractions include spooky Charleston, South Carolina; bustling New York City; historic Boston, MA; and Maine’s majestic Acadia National Park. Here are some notable Atlantic Coast specialty cruises: ● American Revolution Cruise – Want to retrace the steps of early U.S. colonists? You’re in luck as the Atlantic Coast is home to a variety of American Revolution cruises that depart from colorful Chesapeake Bay (insider tip: don’t forget to try the legendary fresh blue crab here for an unrivaled seafood experience). One such cruise is offered by American Cruise Lines with stops in colonial Williamsburg, historical Jamestown and the ever-presidential Washington, D.C. Best of all, American Cruise Lines works with Revolutionary War experts, authors and re-enactors on board and on shore. ● The Great Rivers of Florida Cruise – Say so long to busy beaches in exchange for an adventure on Florida’s St. John’s River. A designated American Heritage River, travelers will encounter wild alligators, curious manatees and regal bald eagles in their natural habitat on this exciting expedition from American Cruise Lines. Along the way, cruisers will dock in notable cities like St. Augustine and Amelia Island for charming fun. Pacific Coast California, Oregon and Washington, there’s a lot to see on the scenic passage that is the Pacific Coast. Here travelers will motor past marvelous cities and places such as star-studded Los Angeles; artsy San Francisco; java-brewing Seattle; and scenic Astoria. Don’t miss these great specialty cruises on the Pacific Coast– ● Wine Country Cruising – Calling all oenophiles, Princess Cruises offers a 7-day Pacific Wine Country cruise that you won’t want to miss. On this adventure, cruisers will sip wine straight from the source as they explore tasting rooms in Santa Barbara and learn the best way to swirl Napa’s world-famous reds from experts in the field. Winos will depart from Los Angeles and drink their way through several ports of call such as San Francisco, Astoria and even British Columbia. ● California Dreamin’ – Princess Cruises also offers a variety of cruises for travelers looking to live out their California dreams like the Classic California Coast package and West Coast Getaways. On the Classic California Coast cruise, travelers will depart on a roundtrip journey from Los Angeles to Vancouver where they will admire the impressive shoreline and marvel at architectural wonders like the Golden Gate Bridge. This trip also makes a pit stop at the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where cruisers can quite literally walk in the footsteps of Hollywood’s best. Princess Cruises’ West Coast Getaways option focuses on showing cruisers the lesser-known areas of the Pacific Coast. Travelers will spend time in sleepy harbors, explore the history and charm of famous cities like San Diego and discover the beauty of Santa Barbara, aka the “American Riviera.”Mon, 13 May 2019 14:05:00 -0700