Allison Tolbert, Luxury Travel Curator

09/06/2026

And just like that… our PONANT adventure comes to an end. ⚓️🇬🇧

After sailing from the Baltic to the North Sea, through the Kiel Canal, charming Dutch towns, a little unexpected itinerary reshuffling (and perhaps a bit too much shopping 😉), Ponant saved one of the best moments for last…

✨ Sailing up the Thames and under the London Bridge ✨

Because of Le Champlain’s smaller size, we were able to sail right up the Thames into the heart of London — something most cruise ships simply can’t do. Watching London unfold around us from the ship was a pretty incredible way to arrive. 🇬🇧⚓️

A spectacular finale to a cruise filled with beautiful places, fascinating history, great food, new friends…and yes, plenty of shopping. 🥂🛍️

Au revoir, Le Champlain. You certainly know how to make an entrance. ❤️

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09/06/2026

Day at sea… but make it the Kiel Canal. ⚓️🇩🇪

Today we cruised from the Baltic Sea to the North Sea through one of the world’s busiest man-made waterways — the Kiel Canal.

No port today, so I fully embraced ship life: spa time, a leisurely lunch, watching the locks from the bridge, and letting Germany glide by from the comfort of Ponant’s Le Champlain. 🥂

Sometimes the journey really is the destination. 💙

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09/03/2026

San Francisco has always known how to reinvent itself, and the city is in the midst of another comeback. New art trails, illuminated landmarks, buzzy restaurants, and revived neighborhoods are bringing a renewed sense of energy to the Bay Area's beauty. 🌁🥂

Read on about its new golden age, then let’s work together to plan your next vacation:

📷: Natasha Lee

New restaurants, buzzy bars, and fresh openings – from JouJou and Frankie’s to the Big Art Loop and A Bathing Ape’s new flagship – are fueling a comeback in this Bay Area beauty.

09/01/2026

In the heart of Rome, Hotel Hassler Roma offers a welcome sense of calm, with gracious service, elegant rooms, and aperitivi served just so.

Here are five reasons this storied stay is a must-visit, from its vast w**e collection to its enviable location above the Spanish Steps. 🇮🇹❤️

The Roman standby recently reopened with two refashioned lounges and a facelift for Michelin-starred Imàgo.

08/28/2026

Three days into my first PONANT cruise and I’m officially in my Baltic era. ⚓️✨

If PONANT is new to you, think small-ship French luxury with a side of adventure — intimate ships, beautiful food, fascinating ports, and a very chic way to explore places you might not otherwise find yourself.

So far: Copenhagen 🇩🇰 → Rostock → Wismar 🇩🇪

I’ve wandered ridiculously charming cobblestone streets, learned about the Swedish influence along this part of the Baltic, toured (and tasted 😉) my way through a local brewery and managed to squeeze in some spa time onboard already. I’ve decided I could get very used to this whole French-ship-meets-Baltic-life situation.

Three days down… and plenty more exploring to come. ⚓️

08/27/2026

A softer corner of Patagonia awaits in Chile's Lake District, where volcano views, glacial lakes, and peaceful fjords replace the rush to the summit. Discover why slow adventure shines here, then reach out to start planning your escape. 🌋🏞️

📷: Laura Macías Acuña

Puerto Varas, Lake Llanquihue, Reloncaví fjord, and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park reward travelers willing to trade summit fever for a slower pace.

08/25/2026

Exceptional dining doesn't happen by chance, especially at sea. Get an inside look at the cruise lines raising the bar with gourmet cuisine, thoughtful sourcing, and world-class culinary experiences, then reach out to plan your next voyage. 🛳️🍽️

An inside look at how Oceania Cruises, Abercrombie & Kent, Atlas Ocean Voyages, and Silversea serve gourmet meals at sea.

08/20/2026

Private appointments, hidden boutiques, and expert guides offer a fresh perspective on shopping in the birthplace of couture. Learn how to experience Paris like an insider, then reach out to begin planning your journey. 🇫🇷🛍️✨

📷: Carole Poirot

Private suites, tucked-away boutiques, and in-the-know guides reveal a more thoughtful way to shop the French capital.

08/18/2026

In Hong Kong, classic and contemporary flavors come together in a dessert culture unlike any other. Discover the sweet treats and beloved bakeries that reveal the city's unique character, then reach out to plan your own culinary adventure. 🏙️☕ 🍰

📷: Andrew Faulk

Bakehouse, Hashtag B, Cheung Hing Coffee Shop, and more beloved bakeries showcase the sweet side of Hong Kong’s food culture.

08/13/2026

Boston’s Seaport district has transformed into a vibrant waterfront destination, blending harbor views, public art, exceptional dining, and stylish shopping. 🦞⚓️🌊

Discover how to make the most of this dynamic neighborhood, then reach out to start planning your New England escape.

Slurp oysters by the water at Island Creek, shop at The Current, overnight at the Boston Harbor Hotel, and more must-dos on the city’s revitalized waterfront.