Avalon Waterways has announced that they will make their Douro entrance with a new itinerary and Suite Ship – the Avalon Alegria – in 2024. Marking their 15th Suite Ship in Europe and first sailings in Portugal, they are poised to offer a new view of the Old World.

​Explore Portugal's stunning Douro River on Avalon's newest addition to their prized fleet of Suite Ships®. The Avalon Alegria charms river cruisers with outstanding experiences and the chic yet relaxed luxury you've come to count on from Avalon Waterways.

​Dreaming of discovering one of Europe’s most unspoiled regions known as Port country? Rambling vineyards and sparkling waters create an incomparable backdrop and famed UNESCO World Heritage Site - the Douro River Valley.

​Join me in Madrid - Spain’s capital since the Spanish Golden age, known for its historic districts, art, music and epicurean delights, during a pre-cruise land extension. After visiting Spain’s timeless jewels, Madrid, Toledo and Salamanca, set sail along the UNESCO-designated Douro River accompanied by your dedicated Cruise Manager, who is beside you every step of your river cruise and land journey.

AmaWaterways’® Celebration of Wine River Cruises add a unique element of epicurean delight in some of the world’s most fabled wine regions at no additional cost. Did you know you’ll be accompanied by a North American Wine Host, who will guide you through the wonderful flavors and tastes of Europe?

​Which itineraries offer Celebration of Wine theme cruises? 

​Soaring volcanoes, spouting geysers, peaceful fjords, and spectacular waterfalls — clients Bonnie and Ron were recently on an epic expedition to the land of ice and fire aboard Hurtigruten's newest expedition ship the ms Fridtjof Nansen. Enjoy some of the highlights in pictures on their "Circumnavigating Iceland - The Land of Elves, Sagas, and Volcanoes" itinerary roundtrip from Reykjavík, the northernmost capital in the world.

​As a member of the renowned La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs gastronomic society, the master chefs of AmaWaterways prepare exquisite cuisine using only the freshest local ingredients. At their one of-a-kind Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, indulge in a locally inspired menu prepared before your eyes, and served with complimentary fine wines. The only venue of its kind on the rivers, The Chef's Table dining experience is included in the price of your cruise.

Avalon Waterways has introduced its green Lighthouse Project to protect the rivers it sails on.

“Avalon is dedicated to protecting the planet with unprecedented, environmentally friendly cruises for guests now and in the future,” said Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways.
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The Lighthouse Project focuses on three main categories, with the mission of nurturing a culture of care and sustainability that extends to its guests: Planet, People and Places.

​Throughout history, Europe’s rivers have inspired some of the most legendary musical compositions, from Strauss’s Blue Danube waltz to Mozart’s Linz Symphony. This rich musical past is echoed in many aspects of AmaWaterways’ history as well. many of our ships were named for musical elements, compositions and instruments, including AmaCello, AmaCerto, AmaDante, AmaDolce, AmaSonata and AmaViola. Our Melodies of the Danube and Blue Danube Discovery itineraries – popular among guests – were also named with the Danube’s musical history in mind.
 
In 2023, to further highlight a strong connection with Europe’s melodic past, AmaWaterways will debut a brand-new classical music-themed itinerary, Celebration of Classical Music: The Danube. There are unique and exclusive experiences included on this customized journey, as well as destinations visited on other itineraries that touch upon musical elements, such as live performances and visits to composers’ hometowns and workplaces.

​Since reports of sailing restrictions and lockdowns in 2020, Viking Cruises has been one of the foremost cruise lines in offering invigorating virtual experiences for their loyal and prospective guests. 
Viking.tv showcases experiential programming that passengers have access to onboard their respective cruises, on deck levels or their cabin TV. Its culturally-focused subject matter will highlight appearances by the Viking executives and crew and subjects relating to its at-sail and at port ventures, plus live video of happenings from around the world.
The food and wine episodes are especially intriguing for travelers who love to experience local cuisines. Below are some delightful examples.
French soufflés with Alexandra
In this episode of Foodie Fridays, we are joined in the kitchen by Alexandra Beucler, a valued member of the Viking family who resides and works in Los Angeles. Although she currently lives in California, Alexandra was born and raised in France. Alexandra draws on her extensive knowledge of French cuisine to share its history while showing us how to make a cheese soufflé and a chocolate soufflé. Bon appétit!

The most frequent question we've gotten from our clients in the last year is, "What are the entry protocols?" When you are traveling internationally, it's important to investigate the countries' entry requirements — and understand the local Covid-19 testing scene. The process of planning to comply with the rules is confusing and ever-changing at best
 
Regardless of your international destination or vaccination status , all travelers arriving in the U.S. must provide a negative test result before boarding. As of December 6, 2021, all passengers traveling to the U.S. must get tested and provide a negative result for COVID-19 no more than one calendar day before departure. Previously, the requirement was within three days from departure.
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But, how do you comply with the entry protocols, restrictions, quarantine rules and testing requirements?

​As 2021 comes to a close, from all of us at Tasteful Journeys, we wish you and your family a holiday season and new year filled with joy.  To celebrate this time of year with a special culinary flair, we have gathered a collection of recipes from some our favorite travel suppliers. Experience the holiday season by creating these authentic recipes at home.