If you've been thinking about a river cruise through Europe, an ocean voyage to Scandinavia, or even an expedition to Antarctica, now is a great time to take a look at Viking.

Through July 31, 2026, Viking's Spirit of Independence offer is available on select river, ocean, and expedition sailings through 2028, making it one of the best promotions I've seen from them in quite a while.

What's Included

When you reserve by July 31, 2026, eligible sailings can include:

• Complimentary international airfare*

• $500 shipboard credit per couple

• A complimentary beverage package

• Just a $25 deposit to reserve your sailing

• Available on select departures through 2028

For travelers who like to plan ahead, this makes locking in a future trip much easier.

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Why I Like Viking

Viking has carved out a unique space in the cruise industry.

Their ships are adults-only, destination-focused, and intentionally designed without casinos, waterslides, or constant onboard entertainment. Instead, the emphasis is on immersive itineraries, included excursions, and exploring the places you're visiting.

Whether you're sailing the Rhine, exploring the Norwegian Fjords, cruising the Mediterranean, or venturing to Antarctica, the destination is always the main event.

It's a great fit for travelers who appreciate thoughtful itineraries, cultural experiences, and a more relaxed style of cruising.

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Is This the Right Cruise for You?

Not every cruise line is the right fit for every traveler, and that's exactly why I spend time getting to know my clients before making recommendations.

If you're looking for Broadway-style shows, nightlife, and a packed schedule of onboard activities, I'd probably point you elsewhere.

But if you're looking for a refined, destination-focused experience where you unpack once and spend your days exploring incredible places, Viking is hard to beat.

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Planning Your Viking Voyage

Promotions like this don't come around every day, and the most popular itineraries and stateroom categories tend to sell quickly.

As a Viking VIP Partner, I can also offer additional onboard credit on top of Viking's current promotion:

• $200 onboard credit per person on itineraries of 10 nights or longer

• $100 onboard credit per person on itineraries of fewer than 10 nights

That means even more to enjoy onboard, whether it's a shore excursion, a spa treatment, or a special dining experience.

If you've been considering a Viking river, ocean, or expedition cruise, I'd be happy to help you determine whether it's the right fit, choose the best itinerary, and coordinate any pre- or post-cruise hotels and transfers for a seamless vacation.

To start planning your Viking voyage, reach out through the inquiry form at thatblondetravels.com/contact or email me directly at Lauren@thatblondetravels.com.

Shoutout to Nick Karr for this fabulous photo

Some trips are planned months in advance.

This one wasn't.

On a Friday afternoon, I called my cousin and said, "I know you're going to think I'm crazy, but... want to go to Alaska next week?"

By the following week, we were on a plane to Juneau.

Since we booked at the last minute, nearly every hotel in town was sold out. We eventually found one... and were welcomed with perhaps the strangest hotel amenity I've ever received: four blocks of very expired Velveeta cheese sitting in the freezer.

No Rotel.

No tortilla chips.

Just four lonely blocks of expired cheese.

Needless to say, it became the running joke of the trip.

Fortunately, everything after that was absolutely incredible.

Looking back, I still can't believe we pulled it off, but sometimes the most spontaneous trips end up becoming your favorites.

In June, I sailed from Juneau to Sitka aboard the National Geographic Sea Lion with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, Lindblad's original expedition ship. While she's retiring this year, what she lacks in flashy amenities she more than makes up for in history, character, and access to places that larger ships simply can't reach.

Before the trip was even over, I knew this wouldn't be my last Lindblad expedition

That probably tells you everything you need to know about how much I loved this experience.

If your ideal cruise includes Broadway-style entertainment, multiple specialty restaurants, casinos, or pool days, Lindblad probably isn't the right fit. But if you'd rather spend your day kayaking beside glaciers, hiking through rainforest, spotting whales from the bow, and ending the evening learning from naturalists over cocktails, it's hard to imagine a more immersive way to experience Alaska.

TLDR

Choose a Lindblad Expedition if you...

• Love wildlife more than shopping ports.

• Enjoy hiking, kayaking, Zodiac rides, and being active.

• Like learning while you travel.

• Prefer small ships over mega ships.

• Want flexible itineraries that adapt to nature.

• Appreciate meeting interesting, curious people.

The best way I can describe it?

Adult Science Camp.

And I mean that as the highest compliment.

What Makes Lindblad Different?

If you're expecting Broadway shows, casinos, waterslides, or endless specialty restaurants...

This isn't that.

Every day revolves around the destination.

One morning we were boarding Zodiacs to get closer to glaciers in Endicott Arm.

The next day we were kayaking remote shorelines, hiking through temperate rainforest, spotting sea lions and bald eagles around the Inian Islands, or choosing between bushwhacking through the Alaskan wilderness and a more relaxed nature walk.

Kayaking, Zodiac excursions, guided hikes, and the onboard presentations were all included, so every day felt active without constantly reaching for your wallet or deciding which excursions were worth paying extra for.

The itinerary is intentionally flexible because nature doesn't follow an itinerary.

If there's a pod of whales nearby, everyone goes to see whales.

What really makes Lindblad different, though, is the expedition team. They don't just point out wildlife. They spend the entire week teaching, answering questions, and sharing their passion for the places you're exploring. By the end of the week, it feels less like you're traveling with guides and more like you're traveling with incredibly knowledgeable friends.

That's the beauty of expedition cruising.

Adult Science Camp

The nickname stuck almost immediately.

Every evening we'd gather in the lounge for cocktail hour and a recap of the day's discoveries.

Naturalists, photographers, geologists, and historians gave presentations that somehow managed to be fascinating instead of feeling like lectures.

Topics ranged from glaciers and marine ecosystems to photography tips and the history of Southeast Alaska.

Instead of trivia about cruise ships, you're learning why a glacier moves the way it does or how to identify different seabirds.

It sounds nerdy.

It absolutely is.

And it was one of my favorite parts.

I came for the wildlife. I left talking about the people.

The People

One thing I wasn't expecting was how quickly everyone became friends.

By the end of the week, we had a regular table at meals, learned how to play Mexican Train Dominoes, and spent evenings laughing with people we'd only met a few days earlier.

Some afternoons we'd hike or kayak for hours. Other afternoons we'd grab a drink in the lounge, pull out the dominoes, and spend the evening swapping travel stories with new friends. Those friendships ended up being just as memorable as the wildlife.

Because the ships are small, you naturally get to know both your fellow travelers and the expedition team.

It felt much more like traveling with a group of interesting friends than being on a cruise with hundreds of strangers.

Luxury Looks Different Here

If you've followed me for a while, you know I usually write about luxury hotels and yacht cruises.

Lindblad is luxurious in a completely different way.

Luxury here isn't measured by marble bathrooms or champagne bars.

It's waking up to glaciers outside your window.

It's having a team of experts helping you understand what you're seeing.

It's stepping into a Zodiac and exploring places that most cruise passengers will never see.

It's coming back onboard to a bowl of homemade chili and cornbread after a rainy morning on the water, or sitting down to an all-you-can-eat Alaskan crab dinner while Steve patiently teaches you the proper way to crack crab legs.

It's ending the day feeling like you actually experienced Alaska rather than just looked at it from a balcony.

Would I Go Again?

Absolutely.

In fact, I already am.

A week after I got home, I booked Lindblad's Galápagos Escape expedition for October.

That's probably the best endorsement I can give.

Why Book Through a Travel Advisor?

As a luxury travel advisor affiliated with Departure Lounge, a Virtuoso member agency, I can often provide additional value on Lindblad Expeditions, including exclusive offers and added amenities on select departures.

More importantly, I can help you decide whether an expedition cruise is actually the right fit for your travel style.

They're very different from a traditional Alaska cruise, and that's exactly why so many people love them.

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Planning Your Expedition

If you've been thinking about Alaska, the Galápagos, Antarctica, or another expedition destination, I'd love to help.

Having now experienced Lindblad firsthand, I can help you determine whether this style of travel is right for you, recommend the best itinerary, and coordinate everything from pre-cruise hotels to flights and transfers.

To begin planning your sailing, reach out through my inquiry form at thatblondetravels.com/contact or email me directly at Lauren@thatblondetravels.com.

Author's Note: I've personally sailed aboard both The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Explora Journeys, and this comparison is based on my firsthand experience as a luxury travel advisor.

Which Luxury Yacht Experience Is Right for You?

If you’ve started looking into yacht-style cruising, you’ve likely come across two names pretty quickly:

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Explora Journeys.

And naturally, the question becomes… which one is better?

The reality is, neither is universally “better.” They are simply designed for different types of travelers. The key is understanding how each experience feels and deciding which one aligns more closely with how you like to travel.

Having sailed both The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Explora Journeys, I've experienced each firsthand, and while both deliver exceptional luxury vacations, they appeal to different types of travelers.

Quick Take

Choose The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection if you...

• Love exceptional service.

• Prioritize fine dining and an outstanding wine program.

• Prefer smaller, quieter ships.

• Want a luxury resort atmosphere at sea.

Choose Explora Journeys if you...

• Like having more space.

• Want more onboard venues and activities.

• Appreciate excellent value in the luxury market.

• Enjoy the feel of a contemporary luxury hotel.

Not sure which is right for you? That's where working with a luxury travel advisor makes all the difference. I help clients choose the yacht experience that best fits their travel style, and depending on the sailing, I can often offer exclusive perks and added amenities.

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How the Experiences Differ

The simplest way I can explain it is this:

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection feels more like a high-end, all-inclusive resort at sea, with a strong emphasis on service, food, and overall ease.

Explora Journeys, on the other hand, feels more like a modern luxury hotel that happens to be on the water, with more space, more flexibility, and more to do onboard.

Both are elevated. They just prioritize different things.

Size, Space, and Overall Feel

One of the biggest differences between the two comes down to size and how that impacts the experience.

The Ritz-Carlton yachts are smaller and more intimate. Because of that, the experience feels more personal and service-driven. However, it also means there is less space to move around and fewer onboard venues.

Explora ships are larger, but they are also designed with significantly more space per guest. In practice, this means more areas to spread out, more pools, and more variety in how you spend your time onboard.

If you prefer something that feels intimate and contained, Ritz is the better fit. If you value space and flexibility, Explora tends to feel more comfortable.

Food, Wine, and Service

This is where I personally saw the biggest distinction.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection stands out when it comes to food and wine. The overall dining experience feels more refined and consistent across venues, and the wine program is noticeably strong.

Service is also a clear strength for Ritz. It feels polished, attentive, and very aligned with what you would expect from the brand.

Explora still delivers an excellent experience in both areas, but it feels slightly less refined in comparison. The service is strong, just not as personalized as what I experienced on Ritz.

Suites and Design

Both brands do a beautiful job with their accommodations, but they prioritize different things.

Ritz suites feel more polished overall, with especially strong bathrooms and a more residential, refined design.

Explora suites, however, tend to have better balconies and more usable outdoor space, which can make a difference if you spend a lot of time outside your room.

Neither is objectively better. It depends on what you value more in your accommodations.

Onboard Experience and Activities

This is another area where the difference becomes very clear.

On the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, the onboard experience is intentionally more relaxed. There are fewer scheduled activities, and the focus is more on enjoying the spaces, dining, and overall atmosphere.

On Explora, there is simply more to do. More venues, more variety, and more options throughout the day.

If you prefer a slower, quieter experience, Ritz is a great fit. If you like having options and variety, Explora may feel more engaging.

Pricing, Value, and Overall Positioning

From a value perspective, Explora generally offers more for the price. Fares also tend to include more, making it easier to understand the overall cost before you book. You are getting more space, more amenities, and more onboard variety, which can make it feel like a better overall value.

Ritz, however, is more about refinement. The experience leans heavily into service, food, and brand consistency, which is where it really stands out.

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Which One Should You Choose?

If you are trying to decide between the two, it really comes down to what you prioritize.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a better fit if you value service, food, and an experience that feels seamless and easy from start to finish.

Explora Journeys is a better fit if you want more space, greater flexibility, and more to do onboard.

Both are excellent options. They simply cater to different styles of travel.

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Final Thoughts

This is where personalized guidance really matters. On paper, these two brands can look remarkably similar, but the onboard experience is quite different. They aren't interchangeable products. Choosing the right one is less about what's trending and more about selecting the experience that best matches the way you like to travel. When the experience aligns with your preferences, that's when these types of trips really deliver.

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Why Book Through a Travel Advisor?

One of the biggest misconceptions about luxury cruises is that you'll receive the same experience regardless of where you book. In reality, who you book with can make a meaningful difference.

As a luxury travel advisor affiliated with Departure Lounge, a Virtuoso member agency, I can often offer exclusive amenities and added value that aren't available when booking directly.

Depending on the voyage and current promotions, my clients often receive additional value such as:

• Shipboard credit to use toward spa treatments, specialty dining, or shore experiences

• Complimentary welcome amenities

• Priority waitlist consideration when available

• Exclusive promotional offers

• Personalized itinerary planning, including hotels, private transfers, and pre- and post-cruise arrangements

• A dedicated travel advisor before, during, and after your trip

Because I've personally sailed both The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Explora Journeys, I can help you understand the differences beyond what's listed on a brochure or website. My goal is to match you with the experience you'll genuinely enjoy most.

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Planning Your Yacht Experience

If you are considering a yacht-style cruise and are not sure which direction to go, I can help you compare itineraries, explain the differences that matter most, and determine which yacht experience is the better fit for your travel style.

From selecting the right brand and itinerary to coordinating pre- and post-voyage stays, the goal is always to create something that feels seamless from start to finish.

To begin planning, reach out through my inquiry form at thatblondetravels.com/contact or email me directly at Lauren@thatblondetravels.com.

You Don’t Need a Passport for an Incredible Trip

Let’s be honest.

When most people start thinking about their next “big” trip, they immediately think international. ✈️

And while I love planning those trips… some of the most memorable, well-designed itineraries I create for clients are actually right here in the U.S.

Not in a “quick weekend getaway” kind of way.
In a this felt like a real trip kind of way.

Because the U.S. has something most destinations don’t: range.

Mountains, coastline, desert, farmland, cities, total seclusion… all within a few hours of each other.

The issue isn’t the destination.

It’s how the trip is planned.

Why Most U.S. Trips Feel… Fine

Here’s what I see all the time.

Domestic trips get treated as easy. Which usually means they’re thrown together quickly. A hotel is booked, maybe a dinner reservation or two, and the rest is figured out on the go.

And sometimes that works.

But more often, it ends up feeling forgettable.

Because nothing was intentionally designed.

The hotel wasn’t chosen strategically. The pacing wasn’t thought through. The experience wasn’t elevated.

And that’s the difference.

The Hotel Changes Everything

A hotel is not just a place to sleep.

It sets the tone for your entire trip.

The right property can completely shift how a destination feels. It determines your pace, your experience, and often becomes the highlight of the trip itself.

Here are a few U.S. properties I consistently recommend when clients want something elevated without leaving the country:

Rosewood Miramar Beach — California 🌊

Right on the beach in Montecito, this is one of the most polished coastal stays in the U.S. It’s effortless but elevated, with great dining, beautiful rooms, and an unbeatable location. Perfect for a relaxed but refined getaway.
Pro Tip: Fly into Monterey and drive down the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at Alila Ventana Big Sur along the way. It’s one of the best California routes you can do.

Vermejo — New Mexico 🐎

Completely different from anything else in the U.S. A massive private reserve focused on nature and conservation. Outdoor experiences, wide-open space, and an all-inclusive structure that actually delivers.

Wildflower Farms — New York 🍂

A peaceful escape just outside NYC. Quiet, design-forward, and perfect if you want something calm and intentional. Especially great in the fall.

Southall Farm & Inn — Tennessee 🌿

Pair this with a few nights in Nashville. High energy in the city, then a reset in the countryside. Thoughtful, grounded, and beautifully designed.

Amangiri — Utah 🌵

If you want something truly standout in the U.S., this is it. Set in the Utah desert, Amangiri is all about architecture, space, and stillness. The design blends seamlessly into the landscape, and the experience is intentionally minimal but incredibly elevated. This is where you go to fully disconnect.

Montage Palmetto Bluff — South Carolina 🌾

A great option for something slower and more scenic. Set along the May River, this feels like a Southern escape with biking trails, boating, and beautiful cottages. Works really well for families or couples.
Pro Tip: Book a cottage or village home for more space and privacy, especially for families or longer stays. It completely changes the experience.

One&Only Moonlight Basin — Montana ⛰️

Summer and fall here are underrated. Hiking, fresh air, wildlife, and then coming back to a very elevated hotel experience. One of the best new openings in the U.S.

Blackberry Farm — Tennessee 🌿

This is one of the best food-focused stays in the country. Set in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Farm combines refined Southern hospitality with incredible dining, wine programs, and outdoor experiences. It’s polished without feeling stuffy and consistently delivers.

Miraval Arizona 🧘‍♀️

If you need a reset, this is where I’d send you.

Why Working With Me Still Matters for U.S. Travel

A lot of people think using a travel advisor is only necessary for international trips.

I would argue the opposite.

Because the difference isn’t just where you go.

It’s how everything comes together.

The right hotel, the right room, the right pacing, the right experiences… those are the things that take a trip from average to exceptional.

And with preferred partner properties, you’re also getting:

• Daily breakfast

• Potential upgrades

• Hotel credits

• VIP recognition

Same destination. Completely different experience.

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The Bottom Line

You don’t have to go far to have an incredible trip.

But you do have to do it right.

If you’ve been craving something that feels intentional, elevated, and actually worth your time, let’s plan it properly. Reach out through the inquiry form on my website at thatblondetravels.com/contact or send me an email at Lauren@thatblondetravels.com.

I recently returned from a 5-night Caribbean sailing aboard Ilma with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and I have to say, it completely shifted my perspective.

If you have ever said, “I don’t like cruises,” I understand. I have felt the same way for years. The idea of large ships, fixed schedules, and crowded spaces has never appealed to me. That is exactly why I was so curious to experience this for myself.

And this is where I will start: this is not a traditional cruise.

What This Experience Actually Feels Like

The best way I can describe it is that it feels like a high-end, all-inclusive resort… just at sea.

From the moment you board, everything is designed to feel easy. You unpack once, settle into your suite, and the rest of your trip unfolds naturally. There is no pressure to follow a schedule, no constant planning, and no sense of being rushed from one thing to the next.

The concept behind The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is to combine the service and elevated feel of a Ritz-Carlton resort with the freedom and flexibility of a yachting experience. In my experience, that combination is exactly what makes this product so appealing.

What Stood Out to Me

One of the biggest surprises for me was the quality of the food and wine. On many cruises, dining can feel like an afterthought, but that was not the case here. There are multiple dining venues onboard, along with 24-hour in-suite dining, and everything I tried felt thoughtfully executed and consistent. The wine program, in particular, stood out as being better than I expected.

The service was also exactly what you would hope for from the Ritz-Carlton name. It was polished and attentive, but still relaxed. Nothing felt overly formal or forced. Instead, it felt intuitive, with the staff anticipating what you might need without making it feel overdone.

The suites themselves are another highlight. Every suite includes a private terrace. It changes how you experience the space, whether you are having coffee in the morning or winding down in the evening. The rooms feel more residential than typical cruise cabins, which adds to the overall comfort of the experience.

What You Should Know Before Booking

That said, I think it is important to go into this experience with the right expectations.

Because the yacht is intentionally smaller, there is not a wide range of onboard activities. Most of your time will be spent relaxing by the pool, enjoying meals, or simply unwinding in the spaces around the yacht.

For some travelers, that is exactly the appeal. For others, it may feel a bit limited.

This is why I always emphasize that the itinerary matters. Choosing a sailing with interesting ports is key, as you will likely want to get off the yacht and explore during the day. The ship itself is not designed for constant movement or exploration in the same way that larger ships are.

It is also worth noting that there is not a lot of space for walking around onboard. The layout is more compact, which reinforces the importance of getting off the yacht and experiencing each destination.

One thing that did pleasantly surprise me was the fitness center. For a yacht of this size, it is very well equipped. My husband, who is much more particular about gyms than I am, was genuinely impressed.

Who This Is Best For

In my opinion, this experience is best suited for travelers who already enjoy high-end, all-inclusive resorts and are looking for something that feels similar but more dynamic.

It works especially well for those who value great food, service, and an overall sense of ease. It is also ideal for travelers who do not want to deal with the logistics of moving between destinations, but still want to experience multiple places in one trip.

This is not the right fit for someone who wants constant entertainment, a packed schedule, or a high-energy environment. Instead, it is for someone who appreciates a slower pace and a more refined, relaxed experience.

Why Book Through Me

As a STARS Preferred Partner and Virtuoso Affiliated Agent, I am able to add additional value to your booking with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

Currently, that includes a $150 onboard credit per person, along with VIP recognition and support throughout your trip. These perks can vary, but I always ensure my clients receive the best available benefits.

Beyond the sailing itself, I also help design pre- and post-voyage stays so your trip feels seamless from start to finish. Whether that means a few nights at a great hotel before you board or extending your time in a destination after, I make sure the entire experience is thoughtfully planned, not just the time on the yacht.

Final Thoughts

I went into this experience curious, but also somewhat skeptical.

What I found is that this is a very specific type of travel, and when it aligns with the right traveler, it works beautifully.

The key is understanding exactly what it is, and what it is not.

For the right person, this is one of the easiest, most seamless, and elevated ways to travel. You simply want to approach it with the right expectations so you can fully enjoy what it offers.

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Planning Your Ritz-Carlton Yacht Voyage

If sailing with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is on your radar, I would love to help you design the full experience.

From securing the right suite to coordinating pre- and post-voyage stays, every detail can be curated so that your journey feels completely seamless from start to finish.

To begin planning your sailing, reach out through my inquiry form at thatblondetravels.com/contact or email me directly at Lauren@thatblondetravels.com.

The ultra-luxury travel world is about to experience something entirely new. In Spring 2027, Aman will debut Amangati, its first purpose-built luxury yacht. The vessel brings the brand’s legendary sense of tranquility, privacy, and architectural elegance from land to sea.

For travelers who already love Aman properties like Amanpuri, Amangiri, or Aman Venice, this experience will feel instantly familiar. Instead of a resort set in a remote landscape, Amangati will be a floating Aman sanctuary exploring the Mediterranean’s most iconic coastlines.

For discerning travelers seeking the ultimate combination of privacy, design, and effortless travel, this yacht will redefine luxury cruising.

What Makes Amangati Different From Any Other Cruise

Most cruise ships measure luxury by scale. Aman takes the opposite approach.

Amangati is designed to feel closer to a private superyacht or floating boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship.

Key highlights include
• Just 47 suites for a maximum of 94 guests
• A stunning 600-foot yacht spanning nine decks
• One of the highest space-to-guest ratios at sea
• Every suite with private terraces and floor-to-ceiling ocean views
• Interiors inspired by Japanese ryokan minimalism and Aman’s signature calm design

The result is a ship that feels remarkably residential. It is intimate, quiet, and intentionally understated.

Instead of crowds, guests experience space, stillness, and deeply personalized service.

Suites That Feel Like Private Residences

Each suite aboard Amangati is designed as a serene retreat overlooking the sea.

Features include:
• Spacious layouts ranging roughly 68 to 354 square meters
• Private outdoor terraces
• Natural materials and warm wood tones
• Full-height windows for uninterrupted views
• Spa-style bathrooms
• Dedicated personal host service

At the top of the ship sits the Aman Suite, an extraordinary multi-room residence spanning nearly 4,000 square feet complete with its own whirlpool terrace and private elevator.

This is not a cabin. It is a luxury apartment at sea.

Dining and Social Spaces

Dining aboard Amangati reflects the same culinary philosophy found across Aman resorts worldwide.

Guests will enjoy four distinctive dining venues including
• Mediterranean coastal cuisine
• Japanese washoku and teppanyaki
• Aman’s signature Japanese restaurant concepts
• Elegant all-day dining spaces

Beyond restaurants, the yacht will feature
• A sophisticated Jazz Club for evening entertainment
• A Beach Club and marina with direct water access
• A 16-meter swimming pool overlooking the sea
• Lounge spaces designed for sunset cocktails and relaxed conversation

Everything is designed around a single principle. Refined simplicity without excess.

One of the Largest Spas at Sea

Wellness has always been central to the Aman philosophy. Amangati takes that focus to an entirely new level.

The Aman Spa spans two decks and offers
• Ocean-facing treatment suites
• Open-air whirlpool baths
• Hammam and banya
• Japanese garden serenity areas
• Fitness studio and wellness programming
• Yoga and meditation sessions at sea

This will likely become one of the most extensive spa experiences ever offered on a yacht.

Mediterranean Voyages Designed for Exploration

Amangati’s inaugural season focuses on five to eight night journeys across the Mediterranean. Voyages can also be combined into longer itineraries.

Destinations include
• The French Riviera
• The Italian Riviera and Sardinia
• The Dalmatian Coast
• Croatia and Albania
• The Greek Isles
• Spain’s Mediterranean coastline

The maiden voyage departs May 7, 2027 (my birthday), sailing from Palma de Mallorca to Nice and visiting ports like Barcelona, Marseille, and Saint-Tropez along the way.

Because the yacht is smaller than traditional cruise ships, it can access smaller marinas and hidden anchorages that larger vessels simply cannot reach.

Ultra-Luxury Pricing and What Makes It Special

Amangati is positioned at the absolute pinnacle of luxury cruising.

Early sailings are expected to start around $38,500 for a five night voyage, with premium suites reaching well over $100,000 per week depending on the suite category and itinerary.

That pricing reflects the scale of the experience
• Extremely low guest capacity
• Exceptional suite sizes
• Aman level service
• A yacht designed specifically for this concept

This is not simply a cruise. It is an Aman resort that moves with you across the sea.

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Why Booking Through a Luxury Travel Advisor Matters

For an experience like Amangati, having a luxury travel advisor can make a significant difference.

When you book through That Blonde Travels, I am able to include
• $500 onboard credit per suite
• Personalized guidance selecting the best suite and sailing
• Pre and post cruise hotel planning at the best luxury properties
• Private transfers and seamless arrival coordination
• Curated destination experiences before or after your voyage

Many travelers pair an Amangati sailing with stays at iconic Mediterranean hotels or Aman properties nearby, creating a fully seamless luxury journey.

The Future of Ultra-Luxury Travel at Sea

Luxury cruising is evolving rapidly as brands like Aman redefine what a voyage can look like.

Amangati sits at the forefront of this shift.

It combines
• The intimacy of a private yacht
• The design philosophy of Aman resorts
• The cultural richness of Mediterranean exploration

For travelers who appreciate quiet luxury, exceptional design, and deeply personalized service, this may quickly become one of the most coveted voyages in the world.

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Planning an Amangati Voyage

If sailing aboard Amangati is on your radar, I would love to help you design the full experience.

From securing the right suite to planning luxury hotels before or after your voyage, every detail can be curated so that your journey feels completely effortless.

To start planning your Amangati sailing, reach out through the inquiry form on my website at thatblondetravels.com/contact or send me an email at Lauren@thatblondetravels.com.

Lauren: Why did you choose a destination wedding?

Ryleigh and Sage: we wanted something that was intimate, so just our closest friends and family which is how it turned out! we also wanted it to feel like a big family vacation, which it definitely did and that was super special. 

Lauren: How many attendees did you have? What kind of experience did you envision your guests having?

Ryleigh and Sage: we had 50 attendees, we wanted them to have the true all-inclusive vacation experience. our goal was for them to have just as much fun as we were having!

Lauren: What was one part of planning your wedding that you knew you couldn't have done alone? How did having a Destination Wedding Specialist help with that?

Ryleigh and Sage: I knew I would need help with the people that don't normally travel out of the country. I knew I wouldn't want to be able to help them with booking and travel coordination. Having Lauren helped keep everyone accountable for booking on time, having their flights booked on time, and she was able to get everyone the rooms they wanted. She also booked all the transportation which was perfect and everyone really enjoyed that added perk. We also all ended up being in the same building at the hotel, which was super fun. 

Lauren: What piece of advice would you give to couples who are just starting the planning process?

Ryleigh and Sage: I would start early, about 1 year out, and I would make sure you have good details on your invitations you send out! 

Lauren: What’s one “extra” you’re super glad you splurged on?  What surprised you the most about your wedding?

Ryleigh and Sage: I am happy we splurged on an outside vendor for our wedding, they helped us have the most beautiful decor and flowers! We are also happy we splurged on a "boat day" which we did the day after our wedding and everyone was invited, it also had an open bar. The "boat day" was everyone's favorite day for the whole trip. 

Lauren: If you could choose three words to describe your wedding, what would they be?

Ryleigh and Sage: fun, beautiful, and special

Lauren: What is your favorite memory from your big day?

Ryleigh and Sage: walking into the reception and seeing all the hard work the hotel and vendors did! and hearing from everyone how beautiful everything was. i was very proud of all my planning!!!

A Note from Lauren:
Riley and Sage thank you for trusting me to help bring your vision to life. Your wedding was the perfect reflection of who you are as a couple, thoughtful, joyful, and full of love. It was such a privilege to be part of this beautiful chapter in your story, and I’m so glad your guests walked away feeling the magic too. Wishing you a lifetime of adventure, laughter, and moments as unforgettable as your wedding day.

With love,
Lauren
Your Destination Wedding Specialist 💛

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season spent with loved ones and friends. I took some much-needed time to slow down, reset, and recharge.

I spent Christmas with my family, which, as always, involved far too much food and zero restraint.

The past few years have been incredibly full, both personally and professionally, and heading into 2026 feels like a natural point to reassess priorities and direction.

That Blonde Travels has grown far beyond what I initially imagined when I started. What began as a travel blog and side business has evolved into a full-scale luxury travel advisory, alongside my continued work in healthcare. I’ve planned hundreds of trips, built long-term client relationships, and traveled extensively myself.

With that in mind, I wanted to share my 2026 goals and travel plans. I want this space to continue to be useful, inspiring, and honest, so if there’s something specific you’d like to see here this year, feel free to reach out.

MY 2026 GOALS

Here’s what I’m focusing on this year:

• Reach $2M in total travel sales for the 2026 year
This is my primary business goal for 2026. Hitting this number means continuing to scale thoughtfully, fewer low-margin bookings, more complex and higher-value trips, and a stronger focus on repeat and referral clients.

• Create a clear, realistic exit plan from pharmacy
I am currently part-time in my pharmacy role, and 2026 is about gaining full clarity on what it will take, financially and operationally, to step away completely. That includes understanding income consistency, cash flow timing, commission pipelines, and what systems need to be in place for the business to stand on its own long-term.

MY 2026 TRAVEL PLANS

January: Vietnam at the end of the month.

March: Sailing on a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection voyage.

May: Southern Africa: South Africa, Victoria Falls, and Botswana.

July: An Explora Journeys ocean voyage through Greece, Croatia, and Italy.

Fall: Charlie starts kindergarten, so travel is still to be determined. Planning either San Diego or Mexico during fall break.

WHY THESE TRIPS MATTER

Each of these trips serves a dual purpose. They allow me to experience destinations, hotels, and cruise products firsthand while also creating space for meaningful personal travel.

Vietnam and Southern Africa deepen my on-the-ground knowledge in destinations where logistics, pacing, and local partners truly matter. Yacht and small-ship voyages with Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Explora Journeys allow me to better advise clients who want elevated cruising without the traditional large-ship experience.

The flexibility in fall reflects a shift in season of life. With Charlie starting kindergarten, travel planning becomes more intentional and family-focused, prioritizing quality time and destinations that balance ease with experience.

These trips aren’t about checking boxes. They directly inform how I plan, what I recommend, and how I continue to build a business that supports both my clients and my life outside of work.

WHAT’S NEXT

Thank you, as always, for being here, for trusting me with your trips, and for the constant support and encouragement. Here’s to 2026, intentional, balanced, and full of meaningful travel.