Articles

Gwen Pratesi

Article / Student

Southern Germany’s University Cities: A College Tour of 5 Historic Destinations

Germany has some of the best universities in the world—and some of the oldest. Heidelberg University, for instance, was founded in 1386. Relative whippersnapper Harvard University in…

Article / Cruise

An Expedition Cruise to Northeast Greenland: 6 Things to Know Before You Book

Situated well above the Arctic Circle, Northeast Greenland is one of the most extreme and remote regions in the world. The area’s superlatives give you an idea of just how vast,…

Article / Slideshows

Azamara Journey Review: What to Expect on Board

Initially built in 2000 for the now-defunct Renaissance Cruises, Azamara Journey is an older but well-maintained ship that has undergone two refurbishments since joining Azamara’s…

Article / Slideshows

Panama Canal Cruises: What You Should Know Before Booking

A Panama Canal transit is a dream trip for many travelers, especially history buffs and engineering geeks. The 50-mile-long artificial waterway, built between 1903 and 1914, connects…

Article / Cruise

Cruises in 2025: New Ships, Port Restrictions, and Other Trends

Cruising will be more popular than ever in 2025. Here's what's new and noteworthy on the high seas. 

Article / Cruise

The Best Cruises You Don't Need a Passport For

U.S. travelers don't need passports to take these memorable cruise itineraries—even though they make international stops. 

Article / Slideshows

Silver Nova Cruise Ship Review: What Silversea's All-Inclusive Luxury Cruising Is Like

Compared to mainstream cruises with their upcharges and theme-park-esque gimmicks, all-inclusive luxury cruises definitely have their charms. The staff knows your name and preferred…

Article / Slideshows

Sun Princess Cruise Ship Review: What We Love—and What Needs Work

Sun Princess , the latest addition to the Princess Cruises fleet, is the line’s largest ship to date, weighing in at 177,882 gross tons and able to accommodate 4,300 passengers. By…

Article / Slideshows

Caribbean Cruise Ports Where a Resort Day Pass Could Be Your Best Bet

If you’re a frequent cruiser, chances are you’re going to visit a few cruise ports in the Caribbean more than once. And even if it’s a new-to-you port of call, the town may not offer…

Article / Cruise

Planning a Cruise: Follow This Timeline for Booking Dinner and Activity Reservations

Mark your calendar! Here's when you need to make reservations for specialty dining, entertainment, and other activities on board nine major cruise lines. 

Article / Cruise

Cruises with Concierge Levels: What Do You Get? And Is It Worth the Splurge?

For a price, cruise lines let you elevate your experience at sea with "concierge-level" accommodations. Here's what you'll get—and which lines are worth the splurge.

Article / Cruise

Dining on a Cruise: The 10 Best Tips and Tricks

Maximize your culinary experience—without blowing your budget—with these cruise dining hacks.