Paul Gauguin cruise is a wonderful relaxing way to visit the Society Islands. It offers a small ship experience and staff is very attentive. Itinerary includes Huahine, Taha'a, Bora Bora & Moorea. Lots of time to relax and explore each island and shore excursions are available. Snorkelling with the sharks and rays is a highlight and popular shore excursion. After the cruise I enjoyed a 3 night stay at the Hilton Moorea. Moorea is easy to access from Papeete by ferry with multiple ferries throughout the day. The overwater bungalow is a highlight for any Tahiti vacation and we were excited to snorkel from our private bungalow. Lots of coral and sea life including small sharks, stingrays and colourful fish.

Had the pleasure of taking the Rocky Mountaineer from Banff in July 2021.  This trip was  special as we see the Rocky Mountaineer as passes through Salmon Arm on it's was to Kamloops.  Scenery was wonderful and services onboard the train are excellent but trip was cut short in Kamloops due to all the forest fire activity.  Hopefully one day I get the opportunity to take this trip again as it really is a trip of a lifetime!

Spent Spring Break 2019 in Orlando with my husband and 3 teenage kids.  We stayed at Disney's Art of Animation resort & Loew's Royal Pacific resort.  These were great option as both were able to accommodate our family of 5,  Staying at a Disney & Universal resort made the holiday extra special and we appreciated the convenience of these resorts after long days at the park.   

October 22 - November 5, 2016 

Windstar Star Breeze 7 night cruise from Rome to Barcelona

3 nights prior to the cruise in Rome at the Metropole Hotel

3 nights post cruise in Barcelona at the Cotton House Hotel

Rome - Many wonderful and historic sights not to be missed including the Vatican, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and the Coliseum.

Starhotels Metropole Hotel - 4 star hotel with walking distance to many attractions.  Recommend upgrading to a larger room that includes breakfast.

Windstar Star Breeze - Boarding the Star Breeze power yacht is quick and effortless.  The staff is welcoming and within minutes are greeted by name.  You immediately feel welcome as you settle in to your suite for the week long cruise.  Our oceanview cabin was spacious with a nice sitting area, walk-in closet and double sinks in the washroom.  Food on board was fantastic from the fabulous lunch buffets to the 5 star dining experience for dinner.

Portoferraio - The luxury of a smaller cruise line allows you to explore quaint hidden ports.  We explored this gem on the Italian Riviera on foot, wandering up to the fort and took in the views from Napoleons House.

 Portofino - Tucked into a fabulous bay this picturesque port is a highlight.  Wander up the hillside to discover amazing views.  Windstar's excursion to Villa Durazzo is not to be missed. This all-inclusive event is complimentary includes wine tasting, pesto demonstrations and balsamic vinegar tasting.

Monte Carlo - Home to the rich and famous.  Admire the many private yachts, high-end vehicles and shops.  Take in the changing of the guard at the palace, Oceanographic Museum or walk part of the Grand Prix Circuit.  This is a late night port allowing you time to check out the Grand Casino.

Cannes - This port is a highlight on any cruise itinerary.  We started our day with a market tour led by our Windstar Chef. We were able to taste many regional specialties and the Windstar Chef purchased fresh fish, olives and cheese for the guests.

Sanary-Sur-Mer -

Port-Venres - This quaint fishing village was our last port.  The highlight was the Petit Train.  This small train winds through vineyards and offers some fantastic views.

Barcelona - Disembarkation was smooth and efficient.  Today we said good-bye to all our new friends and were reluctant to leave the ship.  We were grateful we decided to extend our trip with a stay in Barcelona.