Are you planning a cruise and wondering if you can just use a birth certificate along with other documentation? Discover why relying on basic documentation is not worth the risk, and learn how a passport book protects your family during unexpected travel disruptions.

Solo cruising is no longer about compromise. Find your perfect independent travel style with my insider guide to luxury ocean studios and solo river ships

Skip the stress of overpacking. Learn exactly how luxury river cruise ships handle laundry, from complimentary self service rooms to effortless premium valet options.

Planning your first European river voyage? Discover the ultimate Danube River cruise packing list, featuring expert wardrobe secrets to keep you stylish and comfortable on the cobblestones.

Planning your first European river cruise? Discover why the calm waters, iconic capital cities, and seamless logistics make the Danube River the perfect river for your inaugural voyage.

Step into the exact footsteps of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Explore my top 5 favorite music-themed excursions on the Danube River, and learn how to experience Europe's rich classical history like true royalty.

Booking a family cruise on Royal Caribbean’s massive Icon Class ships can feel like navigating a maze. When it comes to booking a room with a view of the ocean you are suddenly faced with a choice between two main categories: the standard Ocean View Balcony and the newer Infinite Ocean View Balcony. If you guess wrong on the booking engine, it can completely change the dynamic of your family vacation. I have stayed in both cabin types with my family. A Quick Travel Advisor D

What is an excursion actually like on a river cruise? More specifically what can you expect when you sail with Avalon Waterways? I am glad you asked as this is a question I get a lot when it comes to river cruises in Europe. Choosing an Excursion at Each Port of Call When you cruise with Avalon you get your choice of excursions at every port of call. These excursions are included with your cruise fare. Avalon splits its excursions into three distinct categories: Classic, Disc

I recently hit a massive milestone: 50 five-star Google reviews! Here is a huge thank you to my incredible clients in Marietta, East Cobb, and across the country for trusting Markwood Magic to curate your luxury vacations

Come for the historic canals, stay for the warm, gooey caramel. Discover the guide to stroopwafels in Amsterdam before or after your European river cruise

Imagine cycling through sun drenched vineyards, tasting fresh peak season apricots, and discovering ancient legends of stone rabbits. My private ebike journey through the Wachau Valley was the highlight of my recent Danube cruise. Read more to learn about the microclimates of Austria and why this active excursion is the best way to see the Austrian countryside

Choosing the right river cruise requires looking at the technical details that brochures often skip. I am comparing the pool designs and layouts of brands like Riverside and Avalon to help you understand which ships actually match your lifestyle. Whether you want a high end spa atmosphere or a social sun deck experience, this guide breaks down the logistics so there are no surprises when you embark.

Is Kinderdijk on your travel bucket list? I recently visited this iconic UNESCO site twice in a little over a week apart with both Viking and Riviera Travel. From untying windmill sails to discovering the "apple cake restroom hack," I am sharing my boots on the deck guide to the best way to explore these Dutch giants in 2026.

Royal Caribbean ’s Star of the Seas shares the title of the largest cruise ship sailing in the world. She is part of the Icon class of ships along with Hero of the Seas, Legend of the Seas, and Icon of the Seas. I have cruised onboard Star of the Seas twice. She has 2805 cabins onboard. While there are several different cabin categories, the one I get asked about the most is the difference between an infinite ocean view balcony and a standard ocean view balcony. You can read

What exactly is a "swan view" or "duck view" stateroom on a European river cruise? Discover what to expect on the lower decks of the top river cruise lines, and find out if this cabin category is the perfect fit for your travel style and budget.

Planning a milestone 50th birthday trip? Find out if you will be the youngest onboard, what is truly included in your fare, and how to choose the perfect European river for your celebration.

When you think of the Netherlands, what comes to mind? For most travelers, the Netherlands is all about the windmills, tulips, and food including cheese, stroopwafels, and chocolate. During my recent stay onboard the beautiful Avalon View, I had the opportunity to experience the "Windmills, Canals & Cheese" shore excursion from Amsterdam. A highlight of this trip was visiting the Henri Willig cheese farm. It was really fun and an river cruise excursion I would recommend. Chee

From untying windmill sails in the Netherlands to inspecting 16 of the world’s top ships in one week, I’m vetting the 2026 river cruise season firsthand.

Dreaming of Europe but dread the constant packing? River cruising is the ultimate stress free getaway! I created this expert guide just for you. Discover the big differences between ocean and river cruises, top itineraries like the Rhine and Danube, and the best lines for first-timers (including Viking and AmaWaterways). Say goodbye to giant crowds and hello to a floating boutique hotel.

Getting turned around on a cruise ship is a rite of passage for many new travelers. Because "left" and "right" change depending on which way you are facing, sailors use specific terms that remain constant regardless of your orientation: Port and Starboard.