Elevate your travel experience with the newly launched dual-city escape for 2025 by two iconic European hotels, De L'Europe Amsterdam and Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp. As proud members of the Leading Hotels of the World, these storied five-star establishments offer a curated itinerary that seamlessly blends history, culture, and world-class culinary artistry.

This exclusive package is a dream for luxury travelers and food enthusiasts, inviting guests to explore the historic and culinary treasures of Amsterdam and Antwerp. From Michelin-starred dining experiences to exploring renowned museums and iconic landmarks, the itinerary promises an unforgettable fusion of cultural discovery and gourmet indulgence.

Guests booking the dual-city escape can look forward to exceptional perks, including:

• €100 food and beverage credit at each hotel

• Complimentary breakfast

• Bespoke VIP amenities

• An exclusive welcome cocktail
  

  

For those staying a minimum of two nights, enjoy a complimentary upgrade to the next room category, subject to availability.

Whether you choose to stay at one hotel or both, this unique package ensures a lavish experience that celebrates the charm and elegance of two of Europe's most enchanting cities.

Embark on this Michelin-starred journey and create timeless memories as you indulge in the finest offerings of De L'Europe Amsterdam and Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp.

The 2025 Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival, one of South Korea's most beloved winter festivals, kicked off last Saturday in the charming town of Hwacheon, located in Gangwon Province. This iconic event, which runs until February 2, 2025, offers visitors the unique experience of ice fishing on the frozen Hwacheon stream.

Held just 25 kilometers from the inter-Korean border and about 90 kilometers northeast of Seoul, the festival draws in crowds eager to participate in traditional activities such as barehanded fishing, sledding, and more.

As early as 8:30 a.m. on the opening day, visitors arrived bundled up in winter clothing, ready to catch the elusive sancheoneo (mountain trout). Attendees lowered their rods into the ice holes, with many soon cheering as they reeled in fresh catches. Some guests also enjoyed outdoor grilling areas, where they could barbecue the fish they've caught.

"I come every year, but this time, I plan to enjoy both the festival and a nighttime concert at Seon Deung Street," said Kim, a participant from Seoul.

The Hwacheon Ice Fishing Festival, which began in 2003, consistently attracts over 1 million visitors annually. Known for its lively atmosphere and unique activities, it has garnered global attention. In 2011, it was named one of the world's seven wonders of winter by a leading global news organization, and last year, the New York Times featured it as one of the five must-see winter festivals in Asia.

With a population of just 23,000, Hwacheon has become a must-visit destination each winter, welcoming nearly 100,000 international visitors every year.

Azamara Cruises has unveiled details of its much-anticipated 2027 World Cruise, offering an extraordinary 188-night voyage aboard the Azamara Quest. This longest world cruise yet will take guests through 37 countries, 103 destinations, and 5 continents.

A Global Journey Across Iconic Destinations

Set to depart from San Francisco on January 5, 2027, the Azamara Quest will begin its voyage with a visit to Hawaii, followed by a southward journey through Polynesia, New Zealand, Tasmania, and Australia’s southern coast. From Bali, Indonesia, the cruise will explore Asia, making stops in Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Japan. The ship will then cross the Pacific to Alaska before cruising around North America via the Panama Canal, ending in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada. The final leg of the journey will include a transatlantic voyage to Northern Europe, with visits to Ireland, Germany, Latvia, Estonia, Sweden, and more, culminating in Copenhagen, Denmark on July 12, 2027.

Immersive Travel Experiences

Azamara’s World Cruise promises immersive travel experiences through its signature Destination Immersion® program, which allows guests to enjoy longer stays in port and overnights for a deeper connection to each destination. Highlights include:

• 50 Late-Night Stays and 15 Overnights: Explore destinations with extended time onshore.

• 12 AzAmazing Evenings: Exclusive cultural events tailored to each location.

• Access to Hidden Gems: Small-ship advantages to visit less-traveled ports, such as the Kiel Canal in Germany and Shanghai’s The Bund.
  

Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises, shared her excitement for the journey:
“For our 2027 World Cruise, we’ve crafted a route that brings our guests to the doorsteps of sought-after destinations around the world. This is a cruise that will show you the world’s most beautiful skylines, bridges, and cultures – a truly unforgettable experience.”

Exclusive Inclusions and Benefits

Guests booking the full 2027 World Cruise will receive complimentary offerings valued at over $40,000 per stateroom. These include:

• $8,500 onboard credit.

• 15 exclusive events and unlimited wash-and-fold laundry.

• Pre-cruise benefits such as airfare credit, hotel stay, transfers, and $500 luggage shipping reimbursement.

• Unlimited Wi-Fi and Premium Beverage Package upgrades.

Book Now

Reservations for Azamara’s 2027 World Cruise are now open. To learn more or make a reservation, guests can visit Azamara World Cruise 2027 or contact their preferred travel advisor.

About Azamara Cruises

Azamara Cruises is a small-ship cruise line specializing in Destination Immersion® experiences. With its fleet of four ships, Azamara provides travelers with intimate, personalized cruises to iconic and hidden gem destinations worldwide. Through its Always Azamara offerings, guests enjoy a variety of dining options, drinks, gratuities, exclusive cultural events, and self-service laundry, all included in the fare.