Emmanuelle Joachim

So many of the things I love about London are woven into this 4-day itinerary: the history, the creativity, and the little pockets of calm tucked between the city’s vibrant energy. It’s one of those rare cities where nature blends effortlessly into urban life, and where the pace still feels personal and human.

Limone sul Garda is a wonderful discovery—a hidden gem you do not expect. The small town’s stunning setting between the lake and mountains offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Strolling along the waterfront, biking and hiking the scenic trails, or exploring the surrounding villages, it’s a place that blends beauty, calm, and activity in a way that feels just right.

Explora Journeys represents a new era in ocean travel—luxury that is refined, modern, and deeply personal, without being ostentatious. As a brand-new product in the cruise market, it offers a fresh perspective on what it means to travel well, with an emphasis on space, serenity, and understated elegance. The smaller ship size allows access to intimate ports and off-the-beaten-path destinations, thus avoiding crowds.

Last month, I had the wonderful opportunity to board the AmaMora and discover the Rhine castles and Swiss Alps, all in a very festive atmosphere. The charm of the Christmas markets, the snowfall, hot red wine and excellent service while aboard kicked off the festive season in a memorable way.

Uniworld offers a luxurious and culturally enriching experience wherever it sails and this itinerary is no exception. From the moment you step on board, you're enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and camaraderie which promises for a memorable journey. Embark with me!

I recently had the amazing opportunity to board Regent's newly inaugurated vessel, The Grandeur while at port in Miami. Sarah Faberge, great-granddaughter of the famous jeweler Peter Carl Faberge, is the godmother and I was looking forward to seeing the Faberge egg especially commissioned to be part of the many art pieces on board. As soon as you enter the foyer, your senses are captivated by the beauty of every detail. This is contemporary luxury at its best!

The "Springtime Wonders" itinerary is perfect for discovering various countries without feeling rushed with a curated blend of intimate, off-the-beaten-path destinations (Zadar and Zakynthos) and iconic European ports (Dubrovnik and Mykonos). With extended stays in port and overnight stops, I had the opportunity to fully explore each destination. Enjoying the beauty of spring in Europe, and the less crowded streets. Life onboard is a relaxed yet sophisticated cruising experience. With a guest capacity of just over 700, the ship offers a personalized atmosphere. I enjoyed spacious, elegant staterooms and a range of thoughtfully designed public spaces.

Nestled along the stunning French Riviera, Antibes boasts an enchanting blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Explore the charming Old Town's cobbled streets lined with vibrant markets, quaint cafes and boutiques. The iconic Picasso Museum housed within the walls of the picturesque Château Grimaldi has a wonderful sea view or walk the breathtaking Sentier du Littoral for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters, by far the best reward after a 1-hour walk.

I lived in Lisbon for one year and took every opportunity I had to discover the many treasures of Portugal. If this is your first time in this wonderful country and you only have one week, this is the itinerary I would recommend.

Venice evokes a sense of timelessness, romance and mystery. Its labyrinth of canals and ancient stone buildings create an atmosphere of both grandeur and intimacy, as if you're stepping into a living work of art. The city whispers of history, with every corner holding stories of merchants, artists and explorers.

Bruges is a town in western Belgium, boasting a unique charm with its canals, medieval architecture, renowned chocolatiers and home to the Smurfs. This is a must stop if you are visiting Belgium or even Paris — it's just three hours away.