Encompass The World Travel Blog - Page 8 of 37

A Month in Portugal

Stephanie, our social media manager and writer, recently returned from a month in Portugal with her husband and 7-year-old daughter. With its history (geographic borders defined in the early 12th century, a long list of contributions to global exploration, incredible cathedrals), people (a friendly and peaceful population that is family-focused), and culture (beautiful sites and cities from north to south), Portugal captured our family’s interest as a place to spend some extended time. Planning a month-long visit became a part-time job, and even our 7-year-old was involved with the arrangements. Beyond my experiences studying abroad in college, this would be my…
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Snapshot: Kauai, “The Garden Isle”

When travelers daydream about Hawaii, the island that usually most captures this vision is stunning Kauai, also known as The Garden Isle. With its lush green landscapes, scenic coastlines, jagged cliffs, and tropical rainforests with cascading waterfalls, the oldest Hawaiian island truly feels like paradise. Who Should Visit While Kauai caters to all travelers, those who enjoy outdoor activities will feel most at home on this island. People who want a less touristy vibe (no high-rise resorts here!), appreciate time spent immersed in nature, enjoy the peace of a rural setting, and want an island that buzzes with local charm…
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Finding Romance on a European River Cruise

Those of us with a passion for travel often daydream about the cities and places we want to visit someday. In these daydreams, sometimes we think about the person we love the most and traveling the world with them. For couples who dream of checking off destinations around the world together, there’s a way to see and do more with your vacation time: take a river cruise! River cruising is one of the best ways to visit multiple cities without the stress of travel days, unpacking and repacking, or getting lost trying to find your hotel. With their Panorama Suites, themed excursions, and incredible…
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9 Must-Do Activities on An Alaska Cruise

As many travelers have realized, viewing Alaska’s vast beauty and diverse wildlife by ship is an essential experience to truly immerse oneself in the stunning landscapes of The Last Frontier. Many of the world’s top cruise lines have developed Alaska cruise itineraries that keep passengers coming back again and again, offering specialized dining menus, educational lectures with special guests, and unique onboard activities. In fact, there is now an abundance of itineraries and excursions available for Alaskan cruising. Perhaps it’s the myriad of options, combined with its captivating landscape, that keep Alaska tourists coming back for more. Here are 9 must-do…
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2023 Books for Your Beach Bag

Summer is here, and with it comes the arrival of hot new books! Do you have a long flight or car ride coming up? Planning to relax on your stateroom balcony or beside a resort swimming pool? Maybe you’re embracing a summer at home, enjoying the peace of your backyard or front porch swing? No matter where you plan to be this summer, we have a book to keep you company. TROPICÁLIA BY HAROLD ROGERS A family awaits the return of its matriarch and contends with the spilled secrets that precede her arrival in debut novel, Tropicália. Set against the bustling…
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