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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Holiday Cruises

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Bring your family and friends closer together for an unforgettable celebration with holiday offers. With festive holiday sailings, you'll find a journey that gives you everything you love about the holidays with none of the hassle.  

The sights, the sounds, the foods, and the traditions can all be enjoyed on board. Take part in a special holiday dinner, a holiday show in the Main Theatre, hear a choir singing Christmas carols, and, of course, get a visit from Santa with gifts for children and teens.

New Year’s Eve

A New Year’s Eve party and countdown is made fun and festive with holiday favors and a complimentary champagne toast. The next day, you’ll catch all your favorite College Bowl championship football games showing in many areas of the ship.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a beautiful menorah lighting ceremony, Hanukkah services, fun crafts for the kids, and traditional foods such as latkes and toppings prepared by our chefs.  

Go on an Easter egg hunt with the Easter Bunny and indulge in an Easter Brunch in the Oceanview Café. Festive spring decorations abound, and Easter services are offered on board.

Thanksgiving

What’s Thanksgiving without a traditional turkey dinner among family and friends? We’ve got it covered. Afterwards, settle in and watch a few football games that are broadcast in many areas of the ship.

Valentine’s Day

Sweethearts have a special place in our hearts. We celebrate all things love with a complimentary rose for all women, a Love & Marriage Game Show, and a special Valentine’s cocktail. Spa treatments and specialty dining are available for purchase on board.

Spooky decorations and carved pumpkins set the tone for trick or treating for families, a Halloween party for adults, pumpkin-flavored beers and Halloween cocktails. Yes, be sure to pack your Halloween costumes for a fun-filled contest.

Enjoy a traditional Seder service and a variety of Passover foods during our onboard celebration to commemorate the story of the Exodus.

St. Patrick’s Day

Everybody’s Irish for St. Patty’s Day! Celebrate the luck of the Irish with a big St. Patrick’s Day party complete with plenty of green beer, live Irish music and a sea of green decorations everywhere.

Mother's Day

Moms get special treatment including complimentary roses. The kids and dad can record a short “Message to Mom” to be aired during a special celebration. All her favorite gifts are available for purchase, from handbags to the spa indulgences she loves.

Father's Day

Treat Dad like a king on a Father’s Day Sailing. Get him dinner in a specialty restaurant, a whiskey tasting, or a single malt cocktail special. The kids and mom can record a short “Message to Dad” to be aired at a joyful celebration of dads on board.

5 Reasons to Celebrate the Holidays With Celebrity

Celebrate the Holidays on a luxury vacation.

• Everything's ready: Enjoy traditional holiday meals and decorating with no prep or clean up to worry about.
• Entertainment: Festive holiday shows and carolers will get everyone in the spirit.
• Togetherness: Everyone gets to enjoy downtime during the holidays to spend with those who matter most.
• Traditions: Santa brings gifts to all the kids and the halls will be decked to perfection. Corks pop on New Year's Eve.
• Award-winning dining: Sumptuous, complete holiday meals created by a Michelin-starred chef.

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Holiday Cruises

Reconnect with loved ones on a holiday cruise. Leave the prep and party planning to us as you enjoy world-class cuisine inspired by our culinary masters. Take in views and explore legendary lands as you navigate the world’s waterways in the comfort of our perfectly sized ships. Rejuvenate with hydrotherapy at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon®. Start new traditions this holiday season.

2023 Holiday Cruises To Celebrate

Leave The Planning To Us

Start New Holiday Traditions

Holidays Are Better On Board

A New Year’s Cruise To Remember

CARIBBEAN HOLIDAY CRUISES

MEXICO HOLIDAY CRUISES

Featured holiday cruises.

Reconnect with your loved ones as you stargaze on the deck, gather around a festive meal or unwind on a white-sand beach. There’s no better way to celebrate than on a Holland America Line Holiday cruise.

7-Day Eastern Caribbean Holiday

10-Day Mexico & Sea Of Cortez Holiday

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Holiday Cruises with Royal Caribbean

This Christmas season, "Deck the Holidays" with Royal Caribbean. Santa and his hardest working elves have made Royal Caribbean your one-stop shop for holiday entertainment, feasts, activities and much more when you take a Christmas or holiday cruise. Why deal with the stress of putting on all of the holiday festivities yourself when all of your favorite traditions and experiences can be found right on board at the tips of your fingers? When you book your holiday sailing or Christmas cruise with The Cruise Web, you are just one call away from the holiday vacation of a lifetime!

Christmas Cruises with Royal Caribbean

"Come Seek" top-notch Christmas holiday activities, experiences, entertainment and cuisine on a Christmas cruise with Royal Caribbean.

Christmas Activities aboard Royal Caribbean

• Walk for polar bears and join the crew on deck for a walk in support of the World Wildlife Fund's arctic programs.
• Sing along to your favorite timeless holiday tunes Christmas Eve caroling.
• Create your own ugly Christmas sweater at an ugly sweater crafting session. Afterward, rock your creation at the Ugly Sweater Party featuring a live DJ and competition for the ugliest sweater.
• Learn how to decorate like a pro in one of Royal Caribbean's Christmas ornament or gingerbread cookie decorating classes!
• Put your holiday know-how to the test with onboard holiday games and trivia.
• Attend a pajamas movie night featuring your favorite Christmas movies!

Christmas Experiences with Royal Caribbean

• Elves on deck! Be on the lookout for Santa's elves spreading Christmas cheer from bow to stern. And who knows... Saint Nick might be making his own special appearance as well!
• Marvel at the glowing Christmas trees and other holiday decor on display throughout the ship!
• A priest will be onboard for those who wish to attend mass on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or both!
• Holiday story time will be hosted by Santa's elves.

Holiday Cuisine aboard Royal Caribbean

• Why spend your Christmas in the kitchen when you can enjoy decadent holiday cuisine stress-free with Royal Caribbean?
• Get your fill of all your favorite holiday dishes at 150 Central Park, Giovanni's Table and Chops Grille when you take a Christmas cruise with Royal Caribbean.
• Royal Caribbean also offers a special holiday-themed version of their traditional Bottomless Galley Brunch where you can eat as much as your ho-ho-heart desires!

View 2024 Christmas Cruises

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Thanksgiving Cruises with Royal Caribbean

Enjoy stress free turkey-time when you celebrate Thanksgiving with Royal Caribbean! Take part in all your favorite Thanksgiving traditions minus the planning and production hassles.

Thanksgiving Activities & Experiences with Royal Caribbean

• Participate in Thanksgiving-themed arts and crafts with the whole family.
• Watch first hand as the Captain of the ship performs a Turkey Pardon.
• Not a fan of the jam packed shopping malls on Black Friday? Instead, take part in Royal Caribbean's countdown to the holidays shopping events. Holiday specials are available at all onboard shops, including gift packages.

Thanksgiving Cuisine aboard Royal Caribbean

• Get in the Thanksgiving "spirit" with Holiday-themed cocktails.
• And of course, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner will be served in the main restaurant featuring all your Thanksgiving favorites!

View 2024 Thanksgiving Cruises

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New Year's Eve Cruises with Royal Caribbean

Ring in the New Year with Royal Caribbean!

• Begin your year with a bang! Experience a stunning ship-wide party complete with champagne and party favors.
• Enjoy New Year's themed cocktails and exceptional holiday-inspired menus created by Royal Caribbean's expert chefs on New Year's Eve.

View 2024 New Year's Cruises

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Ready for Your Holiday Cruise with Royal Caribbean?

For more information on holiday cruising with Royal Caribbean and to book your stress-free holiday vacation, call The Cruise Web's expert consultants today at 1-800-377-9383!

* Onboard amenities, experiences, features and prices are subject to change without notice. Activities and availability vary by season and sail date. Information accurate at time of publication, but subject to change. Call 1-800-377-9383 to confirm current holiday experiences, pricing and availability.

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Royal Caribbean

• 60% OFF 2nd Guest + Kids Sail FREE + Instant Savings + FREE GRATUITIES or Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

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• 50% OFF Cruises + Take All FREE + BOGO Airfare + Up to $1,700 Cash Back

Holland America

• Up to 45% OFF + Up to $1,000 Onboard Crerdit + 50% Reduced Deposit + 3rd & 4th Guests FREE

Princess Cruises

• Up to 35% OFF + 3rd & 4th Guest FREE + Up to $1,785 Onboard Credit

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• Up to 75% OFF 2nd Guest + FREE Amenities Included: FREE Beverage Package + Basic Wi-Fi + Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

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Sometimes the best gift you can give yourself, friends and family is a fantastic cruise vacation. Cruise.com always has the latest holiday cruise deals from Halloween in the Bahamas to Christmas in the Caribbean. In fact, Cruise.com has cruise deals for the following holidays: Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and most other popular holidays.

Holiday cruises are a great opportunity to get away with family and friends. Book your holiday cruise and get exceptional cruise deals, discounts, upgrades and other valuable offers to make your holiday cruise vacation memorable and affordable. To take advantage of the offers you can book online or call one of our cruise experts for your next holiday cruise.

Featured Holiday Cruise Deals

• Exclusive Onboard Credit Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit on select Cruise Lines

Best Holiday Cruise Deals

• Add Drinks and Wi-Fi & Save
• Escape To Sea Cruise Only Rates from $179
• Military & Civil Service Rates - Must call to book
• Up to $1700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Great Savings: up to 75% OFF 2nd Guest: on select ship and sail dates
• 3rd/4th/5th Guests Sail Free: on select ship and sail dates
• Get up to $150 Savings: per stateroom on select ships and sail dates
• ALL INCLUDED: Free Classic Beverage Package + Basic Wi-Fi
• Back to Back Savings: Save up to $200 Savings when you book a back to back cruise
• SAVE: up to $50 ONBOARD CREDIT on select departures!
• Up to $1600 CASH BACK : EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• EARLY SAVER SALE: up to $50 Onboard Credit + Reduced Deposit from $50pp
• More=Merrier: Save up to $125 per room + $25 Reduced Deposits per person for 3 Guest or more
• Save with Senior Rates: Guests over 55 can save with a senior rate
• Receive Great Reduced Rates: on select staterooms and sailings
• Fun Select Rates: Enjoy a Two Category Upgrade
• Reduced Rates for Military Personnel!
• Up to $1,700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Princess Premier Upgrade: Beverage Package, Wi-Fi, Crew Appreciation, Specialty Dining + more
• Up to 35% Off + 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free
• $50 ONBOARD CREDIT!
• MILITARY: Up to $250 Onboard Spending
• INSTANT SAVINGS up to $600 Instant Savings: per stateroom on select sailings & categories
• EXCLUSIVE: FREE GRATUITIES
• BOGO60 Sale: 60% OFF 2nd Guest + 30% OFF 3rd/4th Guests
• $50 Onboard Credit on select Royal Caribbean Cruises!
• EXCLUSIVE Rates: Book Now and Save
• My Drinks Packages: on select sailings and categories
• Up to $1700 CASH BACK: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• 70% Off 2nd Guest + Take All FREE on select sailings
• FREE Open Bar, Specialty Dining, Wi-Fi, Excursion Credit: & more
• Buy 1st Guest Air, 2nd Guest Flies FREE: from select gateways
• 50% Reduced Deposit: Club Balcony Suites & below
• Up to $2,800 OFF: compliments of Cruise.com
• Kids Sail FREE: Guest 12 & under SAIL FREE (select 3 night or longer sailings)
• Reduced Deposits From US$100 : per person on select sailings
• Up to 50% OFF, Up to $300 Onboard Credit + Reduced Deposit: on select categories and sailings
• Up to $150 Onboard Spending: per stateroom on select sailings
• Up to $50 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• PERFECT DAY AT COCO CAY
• Up To 70% Off 2nd Guest: on select categories & voyages
• Exclusive Inclusions : Free Gratuities, Unlimited Wi-Fi and more
• Up to $100 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Up to $50 Onboard Credit
• Exclusive Offer Up to $200 Onboard Credit Select Sailings
• $50 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free : with Free at Sea (select sailings)
• Great Rates + up to $50 Onboard Credit: on select sailings
• EXCLUSIVE FREE Gratuities, PLUS: on select categories & sailings
• Exclusive Savings for Members: on select sailings & categories
• Spring & Summer Cruises from $109
• Up to $500 per person Airfare Savings: on select Alaska & Europe itineraries
• EXCLUSIVE Get Up To $300 Onboard Spending: on select categories & sailings
• Amenities include a Cocktail Reception, Exclusive Shore Event + more
• Receive Up to $300 Onboard Credit + Reduced Deposit
• Up to $200 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Military Special - Up to $250 Onboard Credit
• Champagne Balcony Breakfast for Two
• $60 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Up to $1700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE
• FREE Beverage Package, Wi-fi, Excursions + More: on select categories & sailings
• Solo Travelers Offer: Reduced Single Supplement Rates
• SPECIAL AMENITIES: Private Host, Cocktail Reception & Exclusive Shore Event
• EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE: Complimentary Galley Tour
• FREE Gratuities, FREE Open Bar, All Suite Accommodations + more
• $75 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• Enjoy specialty dining for two at Rudi’s Sel de Mer
• Complimentary Chocolate Covered Strawberries
• Complimentary Chocolate Covered Strawberries & Complimentary Bottle of Wine
• FREE GRATUITIES: on select categories and sailings
• Complimentary Gratuities

All offers are based on select sailings and categories and are subject to availability at time of booking. All rates are per person based on double occupancy.

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals Guide

When it comes to planning the ultimate getaway, there are so many reasons why cruise vacations rank among the most popular travel options. First of all, they’re completely stress-free. On a cruise vacation, all the planning is taken care of by the cruise line — from the destinations you sail to and the shore excursions available at each port, to a full range of entertainment and activities happening onboard every day. If you’re not a planner, or if the only things you’re looking to focus on during your getaway is savoring great food, relaxing, and soaking up the sights, cruise vacations are the way to go. A cruise vacation is also a great option if you’re traveling with the whole family, especially when you opt for a Royal Caribbean cruise. All of the ships in this cruise line’s fleet offer family-friendly experiences for guests of all ages. Even little ones will find plenty of ways to play with spaces and activities designed for tots to tweens. One of the top reasons savvy travelers love cruising, though, is because of the incredible value it offers. With Royal Caribbean, your cruise fare includes access to most of the ship’s attractions, select dining venues and all of the entertainment onboard. If you want to make your experience even more all-inclusive, you can opt for beverage and specialty dining packages that cover drinks and dinner at some of the most exclusive restaurants in the fleet. On top of all that, the cruise line presents frequent limited-time offers and seasonal sales, making it easy to score big savings when booking your vacation.

I’m ready to start planning my cruise — how can I score the best deals?

Whether you’re looking to book a short getaway or a longer adventure to far-flung destinations, Royal Caribbean makes it easy to save big on everything from your cruise fare to special experiences onboard and onshore. The first step to making sure you get the best deals is to join the cruise line’s email list. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive regular updates on all the latest offers, like deals by destination , kids sail free promotions and flash sales. The savings don’t end when you book your cruise, though. Once you’ve made a reservation, you’ll also receive notifications about special offers for onboard experiences — like discounts on beverage and specialty dining packages, shore excursions, spa services, and more via My Royal Cruise .

Does it pay to plan ahead, or should I wait until the last minute?  

It’s an age-old question — does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to taking a “wait-and-see” approach? If you’re booking a cruise vacation, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings , as Royal Caribbean often runs early saver deals to guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings — but only if the itinerary you’re interested in hasn’t sold out yet.

If you can be flexible when it comes to your travel dates, you’ll have your pick of unbeatable savings. Popular vacation dates — like the holidays , spring break , summer vacation and week long cruises — sometimes see the highest prices (though you might get lucky with a seasonal sale). If you have the flexibility to travel during the shoulder season or off season, you’ll likely enjoy big savings on popular stateroom categories , like Balconies and even Suites. The deals don’t only apply to your cruise fare, though. Once you’ve booked your vacation, you could easily unlock discounts and specials on add-ons, including beverage and dining packages , Voom® high speed internet, shore excursions, and amazing experiences not included in your cruise fare — like a day of pampering at Vitality SM Spa, a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s galley followed by brunch, VIP seating at shows, and much more.

How can I maximize the value of my cruise vacation?

There are plenty of ways to get more bang for your buck when you sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Every ship in the fleet offers a range of delicious complimentary dining options , but you can dig into even more crave-worthy flavor by purchasing a Specialty Dining Package for less ahead of your cruise. Add a Specialty Beverage Package — which includes unlimited alcoholic beverages, soda, and more — and your experience is as close to all-inclusive as it gets. And with so many complimentary shows and attractions onboard, you can easily fill every sea day without spending a single dollar extra.

Royal Caribbean also offers deals based on departure ports  and destinations, so if you’re a flexible traveler looking for great savings, you can plan your next vacation around which itineraries are on sale. Just check your email or visit RoyalCaribbean.com/cruise-deals to stay up to date on promotions, sales and special offers. You can even browse sailings and deals by homeport, destination and season, so you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible deal no matter when or where in the world you choose to set sai.

Ready to start planning your next getaway? Start exploring cruise deals now.

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Cruise deals galore: Why this could be the year to spend the winter holidays on a ship

As cruise lines continue to discount fares to drive bookings, the holidays could be a terrific time to sail, with deals on upcoming 2022 voyages everywhere you look — some as little as $50 per person per night.

Travel demand is swelling in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning that airfares have skyrocketed, as have prices for land-based hotels, resorts and all-inclusives. What this means is that, with cruise prices remaining low, a vacation at sea just might offer some of the best value if you're looking to hit the road for the holidays.

Whether you're planning to spend them with your significant other, a group of friends or your entire extended family, you'd be remiss not to check out some of these amazing last-minute cruise deals we've spotted for sailings over Thanksgiving, Christmas , Hanukkah and New Year's.

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Sample cruises

Here are some examples of fares I'm seeing in three popular cruise destinations over the holidays.

• Thanksgiving: Five-night Carnival Sunrise sailing, round-trip from Miami on Nov. 23, from $479 per person ($96 per night).
• Christmas/Hanukkah: Three-night Norwegian Sky sailing, round-trip from Miami on Dec. 23, from $279 per person ($93 per night).
• New Year's: Eight-night Norwegian Getaway sailing, round-trip from New York on Dec. 31, from $629 per person ($79 per night).
• Thanksgiving: Nine-night Celebrity Infinity sailing, round-trip from Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 19, from $599 per person ($67 per night).
• Christmas/Hanukkah: Sixteen-night Zaandam (Holland America) sailing, round-trip from Fort Lauderdale on Dec. 20, from $1,049 per person ($66 per night).
• New Year's: Seven-night Radiance of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) sailing, round-trip from New Orleans on Dec. 31, from $571 per person ($82 per night).

Mediterranean

• Thanksgiving: Fifteen-night Regal Princess sailing, from Rome (Civitavecchia) to Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 17, from $857 per person ($57 per night).
• Christmas/Hanukkah: Five-night MSC Magnifica sailing, round-trip from Marseille, France, on Dec. 22, from $299 per person ($60 per night).
• New Year's: Four-night MSC Poesia sailing, from Genoa, Italy, to Rome (Civitavecchia) on Dec. 31, from $243 per person ($61 per night).

The fine print

There are some caveats, however. The prices listed are for the most basic windowless cabins, as advertised at VacationsToGo.com. They're also double occupancy rates, which means they're per person, not per sailing. Cruisers traveling solo are expected to pay for both fares if they're staying alone in accommodations intended for two people. (Some cruise lines do offer solo cabins .)

Additionally, port taxes and fees generally aren't included in the fares you initially see. Airfare and pre-cruise hotels can add to the overall cost of your trip, too. Look for sailings departing from a port you can drive to if you're cruising on a budget .

Bottom line

Although cruise prices for holiday weeks aren't as low as what we've been seeing for non-holiday weeks this fall — think $26-per-day Carnival fares and Royal Caribbean sailings for less than $100 — they're still affordable, providing a much more economical choice than land-based vacations. (Although the prices above are super-low, anything less than $1,000 per person per voyage, is still a steal for cruises during the holidays.) Plus, you can see multiple places in one trip.

Not quite ready to sail yet? There are other great bargains to be had for sailings in 2023 and beyond with this year's Black Friday cruise deals . Check out early offers from major cruise lines featuring fare discounts and added perks like complimentary airfare, Wi-Fi, alcohol packages and more.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Special Days at Sea and Holiday Cruises

All-inclusive resort or cruise – which is best?

“Club Tropicana, drinks are free… Fun and sunshine, there’s enough for everyone,” so sang George Michael in Wham!’s famous 1980s paean to the nascent all-inclusive. In the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, ‘free’ booze and no bill sounded and looked – if you were anywhere near a pool in Ibiza with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley – like holiday utopia. 

Drinks weren’t really free, but the idea that you could pay up-front to eat and imbibe, and be assured that you wouldn’t be presented with a terrifying bill at the end, was a novel concept, particularly for budget-conscious families and sun-seeking partygoers. 

It still offers considerable appeal in our cash-strapped times, which may explain why all-inclusives have had something of a renaissance. Cruising offers similar peace of mind and plenty to do with kids clubs, waterslides and Disney princesses on board – though alcohol isn’t always free. During both types of holiday, the entertainment comes to you and you’ll never have to flinch at the prices on the menu. 

But which type of holiday is best? Our writer put them both to the test.

Destination

Children’s clubs, food and drink.

• Hidden costs 

All-inclusive

Club Med founders Gilbert Trigano and Gérard Blitz, who dreamt up the all-inclusive concept in the 1950s, had beaches and sunshine in mind. But skiers also favoured the all-in pricing model. Europe’s slopes were a win-win for the brand, which opened its first Alpine village at Leysin in Switzerland in 1956 ( clubmed.co.uk ).

Traditional sunshine strongholds Mexico and the Caribbean – where Butch Stewart picked up the mantel with his Sandals brand – still account for a big slice of the all-inclusive pie, but the net has spread further to include Cuba, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Montenegro, Cape Verde and the Azores. Further afield there are all-inclusive resorts in Kenya, Thailand (mostly Phuket) and the Maldives and Mauritius. Turkish-owned Rixos ( rixos.com ) has recently opened resorts in Qatar and Doha, while Tui ( tui.co.uk ) and First Choice ( firstchoice.co.uk ) offer several resorts in Costa Rica. 

Cruise 

An average week or 10-day ocean cruise can tick-off several different destinations in one country, or across several countries in one trip. If you have a bit longer, it can take you round the world. Three-month world cruise itineraries cross continents, sail several seas and oceans, visit scores of capital cities and offer hundreds of excursion opportunities. 

And let’s not forget off-grid but accessible by water destinations such as the Galapagos, the Pitcairn Islands and Antarctica. River cruises follow the course of most navigable rivers, from the Amazon to the Zambezi. The Mekong, the Mississippi and the Ganges are among their more adventurous destinations. 

Whether beach or mountain-based, most all-inclusive resorts feature an activities element. Sandals comes up trumps, with free scuba at its Caribbean dive resorts and multiple rounds of golf and green fees at top courses in Jamaica, St Lucia and the Bahamas. 

Meanwhile, guests at Rixos resorts in Turkey have free daily access to The Land of the Legends Theme Park in Antalya – which means big savings in peak periods. This Easter, there are also egg hunts as well as giant egg-painting: a week at Premium Tekirova costs from £2,390 for four adults and two children, departing on March 30.

Watersports not your bag? Ikos Oceania in Halkidiki can provide a Tesla Model 3 at no extra cost for one day’s exploration as well as a culture pass to local museums. At Ikos resorts ( ikosresorts.com ), spa access is free between 8am to 8pm. 

If you’re after more than a typical beach holiday, check the activities part of a hotel website to find out what’s included. The adults-only Sanctuary Cap Cana ( sanctuarycapcana.com ) in the Dominican Republic offers Spanish classes and, at the House of Aia on Mexico’s Riviera Maya ( thehouseofaia.com ), a ‘personal growth’ programme includes 20 classes, ceremonies and rituals from visiting guides.

If you have adventurous teens in tow, the US offers some interesting options. At the historic Castle Hot Springs in Arizona ( castlehotsprings.com ) there’s axe-throwing, cruiser bikes, geothermal hot springs and creekside hammocks for lazing in, while, further north in scenic Wyoming, Scott Dunn has stays at Brush Creek Ranch, set in 30,000 acres of sage-bush prairie where you can ride, fish or take to the landscape by ATV ( scottdunn.com ).

With distractions ranging from rock-climbing walls and ropes courses to simulated surfing, via encounters with Star Wars, Marvel and Disney Pixar characters, cruising sets a high bar for activities. And on land, there are excursions – sometimes included – for every type of passenger. 

It’s not just families who benefit. Swan Hellenic ( swanhellenic.com ) has teamed up with Deepak Chopra to offer wellbeing voyages, while adult-only ships offer films under the stars or in theatres, lectures from wildlife experts and historians, opportunities for citizen science, celebrity speakers, casinos and activities ranging from dance lessons to art and photography classes. Virgin ( virginvoyages.com ) also puts on DJ sets and pool and dance parties. And let’s not forget the main event – a new place to explore every day.

Newer resorts have really lifted the bar. At its properties along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, Rixos rolls out the red carpet for families with a Rixy Kids Club that has cooking and pottery lessons as well as football and dance academies. At Rixos Sungate, where the kids’ club is set around a splash park in a forest, children can learn to code using Lego robotics.

At Ikos Resorts’ collection of luxury properties in Spain and Greece, kids’ clubs are run in line with UK Ofsted standards. Meanwhile, Tui’s family-friendly resorts come with kids’ clubs and a seven-day line-up of activities including creative sessions. Mini Club Med offers trapeze lessons, introductory water-skiing, horse-riding, cooking classes, games and nature discovery activities. For older kids (11-17), there’s film design, DJ sessions and dedicated areas in which to hang out. 

If you’re travelling with very small children or have ambitious activities in mind, check the small print: like lots of childcare for babies and toddlers, Petit Club Med and Baby Club Med both cost extra. Motorised water sports often incur a fee at all-inclusives while some resorts impose limits on the number of windsurfing or other tutored lessons.

Cruise ships do a stellar job when it comes to children’s clubs, with all ages well catered for. Most resort ships divide clubs into four age groups and some, including P&O Cruises ( pocruises.com ), offer free babysitting. Royal Caribbean ( royalcaribbean.com ) has an adventure science lab for budding junior scientists as well as baby and tots programmes for those aged six to 36 months. Celebrity Cruises has a STEM at Sea partnership with The Frost Science Museum (Equinox and Edge-class ships; celebritycruises.com ).

P&O Cruises is particularly well set up for those with kids in tow, with round-the-clock children’s clubs on its family-friendly ships and family-oriented shore excursions. MSC Cruises ( msccruises.co.uk ) has baby, mini, junior, young and teen clubs. The latter offers Xbox and PS4 tournaments, a Drone Academy, flash mobs and dance offs. Disney Dream ( disneycruise.disney.go.com ) has some imaginative offerings too, including the Jedi Training Academy and the opportunity to hang out with characters from the Toy Story trilogy.

You get what you pay for. If that’s sun and sea and a good four-star family resort, expect two or three bars and a standard buffet: a week at the Iberostar Bellevue in Montenegro costs £1,562 in mid-May ( iberostar.com ). Pay a bit more and you’ll be rewarded with more imaginative menus. At Ikos Porto Petro in Majorca, five à la carte restaurants serve meals inspired by Michelin-starred chefs (from £2,470pp with Sovereign; sovereign.com ).

Ikos also has curated “dine out” programmes that encourage guests to eat at local restaurants – including a rustic tapas joint in Estepona, an agriturismo in Ibiza and a buzzy beachfront spot in Marbella. Sandals ( sandals.co.uk ) has similar in Curaçao and Nassau. Caribbean all-inclusives generally offer three or four restaurants – and maybe a pop-up beach venue or barbecue night.

Think cruise, think buffet, right? Wrong. Standards are high, with new ships offering a plethora of cuisines, dining styles and venues along with healthy options and dietary alternatives. You’re as likely to find vegan muffins and bee-pollen at the breakfast buffet as a Full English. 

Silversea and Virgin have ditched the buffet altogether. Partnerships with chefs including Marco Pierre White and Eric Lanlard (P&O Cruises), Relais & Chateau (Silversea; silversea.com ), Jacques Pepin (Holland America Line; hollandamerica.com ) and Thomas Keller (Seabourn; seabourn.com ) have also made a difference. Crystal ( crystalcruises.com ) has a Japanese restaurant masterminded by Nobu while wine presenter Olly Smith helms the Glasshouse on some P&O ships. 

Silversea, Holland America Line and Oceania ( oceaniacruises.com ) are highly regarded among foodies and Regent Seven Seas ( rssc.com ) offers some stylish settings while Celebrity’s newer ships have roof-top gardens and over-the-sea dining. Fine dining can cost extra, depending on the ship, but expect to pay around £15 on top for three courses, which might just include one of the finest steaks you’ll ever eat. 

All-inclusive 

It’s a broad-brush summation but for something established, refined and ‘old-school’ romantic – think castaway beaches, palm fronds gently buffeted by warm trade winds, knock-out views and honeymoon havens – the Caribbean is a safe bet. The likes of Jumby Bay ( oetkercollection.com ), Spice Island Resort ( spiceislandbeachresort.com ), Necker ( virginlimitededition.com ) and Curtain Bluff ( curtainbluff.com ) are famous for a reason. 

The Maldives attracts a discerning international clientele while, in Europe, there are affordable package resorts where screaming kids are well tolerated. At the stylish new kids on the block (think Ikos and Grecotel Luxme; grecotel.com ), Poppy and Miles only scream in the privacy of the rooms however. 

Skiers are too busy skiing, too knackered or too busy partying to care about trifles like the vibe. If in doubt opt for Club Med, where most people speak French. 

It varies enormously across ships. River ships are tranquil, geared to sightseeing and generally follow an up-early and early-to-bed routine. Large resort ships can feel like theme parks, with entertainment into the wee hours; smaller ships go out of their way to leave passengers alone and provide impressive libraries and spaces for quiet contemplation. Viking ( vikingcruises.co.uk ), Silversea and Seabourn excel at this. Then there are the tall ships such as Sea Cloud ( seacloud.com ) and those in the Star Clipper fleet ( starclippercruises.co.uk ), where you’ll spend most of your time on deck watching the wind make the sails dance. 

Some liners take a ship-within-a-ship approach, with exclusive areas, pools and services – at a cost. MSC has the Yacht Club while Norwegian Cruise Line ( ncl.com ), Royal Caribbean and P&O have premium areas with pools and separate menus. Cunard ( cunard.com ) has the Grills Suites. 

If you’re after a more intimate, house-party atmosphere (complete with Surrey types, ex-boat owners and ‘non-cruisers’), opt for a yacht-style cruise ship from Ponant ( uk.ponant.com ), SeaDream ( seadream.com ), Scenic Eclipse ( scenic.co.uk ) or one of a handful of Windstar ships ( windstarcruises.com ).

Hidden costs All-inclusive

Do question the headline price, especially if booking via a third party. In January 2024, a Which? survey of 2,000 holidaymakers revealed key omissions from some operators, including soft drinks. Those who booked with the cheapest provider, lastminute.com , were forking out an extra £367 per week on average for extras. 

Operators take different approaches to inclusions. BA Holidays says: “Expect your holiday to include flights and accommodation, all three meals and snacks in between. Drinks are included too but expect house wine and local spirits unless otherwise stated.” EasyJet’s small print states: “What’s included in the all-inclusive package varies vastly between hotels. When booking your holiday be sure to look at the board description.”

Premium restaurants often cost more, but at the Oaks IBN Battuta in Dubai for example (where a week costs from £989pp through loveholidays.com ) the price includes à la carte restaurants and in-room breakfast. In all cases the two-clicks-away small print was clear. Read it. If in doubt, use the chat function, talk to a travel agent or pick up the phone.

All cruises include accommodation, dining, entertainment and access to pools and the other fun facilities, but Wi-Fi, drinks – alcohol and soda – and tips and room service might not be included. Tips are automatically added to cruise bills on a per passenger, per day basis. Expect to pay for service on spa and beauty treatments and bar drinks.

If you plan on drinking every day, pay for a drinks package (there are alcohol-free packages, too). Celebrity Cruises alcoholic drinks packages start at around £55 per day and Cunard’s soft drinks package starts from around £8.50 per day. Princess Cruises’ Wi-Fi, tips and drinks bundle costs £50pp per day ( princess.com ). 

Though you’ll still pay extra to tip for beauty services, some truly all-inclusive lines also include Wi-Fi, limitless premium drinks, a free mini-bar, most service fees and some excursions. Some also include airfares and a pre- or post-cruise hotel night. Take a look at Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Viking, Crystal and Seabourn. 

Which wins?

The all-inclusive concept has evolved – there’s no room for holiday snobbery in 2024. If all you want is a hassle-free place to relax by a pool or on the beach and forget about daily expenses, this is as good as it gets. But if you intend to stay longer than a week or haven’t been to the destination before, do some research. You may tire of the same sand, sun loungers and restaurants while venturing out to drink and dine makes little financial sense.

If you’ve a thirst for new places, a cruise offers all of the above plus the bonus of a new port of call most days – without the need to unpack. You’ll never get bored of the changing views and, as for feeling claustrophobic, you can disembark every day (though you don’t have to). Plenty of ships overnight in port, so you can dine ashore too. 

Cruises score bonus points for once-in-a-lifetime experiences too. Unless you own a boat, how else do you experience the romance of a dawn arrival in Manhattan, a sunset sail out of Sydney or your first glimpse of porpoising penguins in the Galapagos?

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Moscow Vacation Packages

Moscow vacations are always a great idea when it comes to traveling in Russia. Plan your trip to Moscow with a leading tour operator for Russia and enjoy the ease and pleasure that comes from it. You will stay at the centrally-located hotels, enjoy guided tours to Moscow's best sights with charming local guides, and, most importantly, feel relaxed and immersed in the Russian culture at all times. Wondering what the ideal way to see the best of Moscow is? Well, with a private tour to Moscow, of course! We will listen to your travel preferences and prepare a custom Moscow itinerary just for you. Let's start talking about your upcoming vacation to the gorgeous capital city of Russia.

Moscow Tour Highlights

Explore the capital of the largest country in the world, Russia.

Learn about the most visited sights in Moscow that are worth adding to your Russian itinerary. Create a fantastic tour to Moscow with a destination, choosing your wished activities.

• Moscow walking tour
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Tips for Moscow Travel

Take a look at the good-to-know tips before visiting Moscow and have a fantastic time in the capital.

What to pack

Make sure to check the weather prognosis before your trip and pack accordingly.

When to travel

Moscow is beautiful all around the year. Choose traveling time according to preferred activities.

We suggest to always have some cash with you. You will need Rubles (RUB) for Russia.

How much to tip

Tipping is not required in Russia, but it's considered good etiquette, tip 10%-15% of your bill.

The average summer temperature is approx 18°C (64°F), and winter is around -6°C (22°F).

Some of the most popular souvenirs from Moscow are caviar, Krasnaya Moska perfume.

Best Moscow Sights

One of the highest points in Moscow and one of its most breathtaking places - the Sparrow Hills.

See the 344-feet Cathedral of Christ the Savior - the tallest Orthodox church in the world.

Enjoy masterpieces of Russian opera and ballet in Moscow's legendary Bolshoi Theater.

Being the most recognizable symbol of Russia in the world, Red Square is an absolute must see when in Moscow. 

The famous GUM is a large department store in the Kitai-gorod part of Moscow facing Red Square.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is Moscow’s most famous artistic work of architecture set in the romantic Red Square.

History and luxury is revealed inside the Kremlin as the Armoury Chamber displays treasures like Faberge Eggs.

The symbol of Moscow and entire Russia, the Kremlin is often described as the 8th Wonder of the World.

Moscow Metro is like a whole underground city that holds the world's largest collection of Stalinist Art.

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WOW. From the choice of hotels, an itinerary that ran to plan, the amazing Guides and drivers, and of course the stunning cities of Moscow and St Petersburg. No long queues for entry to museums, churches, and palaces.  I would gladly recommend using Firebird Tours (Travel All Russia) to anyone.

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THE 10 BEST Moscow Spa Resorts

Moscow spa resorts, property types, distance from, neighborhoods, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
• Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners

1. Hotel Metropol Moscow

2. Lotte Hotel Moscow

3. Palmira Business Club

4. Mercure Moscow Paveletskaya

5. AZIMUT City Hotel Smolenskaya Moscow

6. Swissotel Krasnye Holmy Moscow

7. Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow

8. Ararat Park Hotel Moscow

9. Radisson Blu Olympiyskiy Hotel, Moscow

10. Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow

11. four seasons hotel moscow.

12. Boutique Hotel Brighton

13. InterContinental Moscow - Tverskaya, an IHG Hotel

14. Garden Ring Hotel

15. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Moscow - Marina

16. Crowne Plaza Moscow - Tretyakovskaya, an IHG hotel

17. Hyatt Regency Moscow Petrovsky Park

18. Novotel Moscow Kievskaya

19. AZIMUT City Hotel Olympic Moscow

20. Plaza Garden Moscow WTC

21. Mamaison All Suites Spa Hotel Pokrovka

22. StandArt Design Hotel

23. Novotel Moscow City

24. Hotel Savoy Moscow

25. Petroff Palace Boutique Hotel

26. Katerina City Hotel

27. Aparthotel Adagio Moscow Kievskaya

28. Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel & Business Center, Moscow

29. Assambleya Nikitskaya

30. Hotel Holiday Inn Moscow Sokolniki

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• Flight time from London: 3 hour 35 min
• Domodedovo International Airport: 45km from the city centre; transfer time about 1 hour 4 min
• Nearest railway station: Leningrad Station
• Currency: Russian ruble

As the largest city in Europe and Russia's capital, Moscow boasts gigantic buildings, expensively priced coffee and some of the wealthiest people in the world amongst its citizens.

Theatre plays a big part of the city's culture, with the world famous Bolshoi Theatre being just one of the many places which showcase the latest performances to the masses. These concerts are often at the heart of many of the festivals that come to Moscow on a yearly basis and there are also a variety of different local theatres which are continually offering premieres of the newest shows. Along with this, much of the art often spills out into the streets, creating a feast for the eyes of any lucky passers-by.

Moscow offers something for everyone, with romantic walks lit up by beautiful lights for the couples, art galleries and beautiful architecture for culture enthusiasts and Gorky Park and the Moscow Zoo for those travelling with children. A Moscow city break will not disappoint and you are sure to be welcomed with open arms.

One of the world's most recognisable public spaces, Red Square is as impressive in reality as it is onscreen. The heart of Moscow and the first destination for most visitors to the city, it is surrounded by St. Basil's Cathedral, the State History Museum, Lenin's Mausoleum and one of the Kremlin's long brick walls.

The Kremlin

This gigantic site can not be missed. The Diamond collection in the Armoury is worth a visit on its own and there are also several stunning churches that warrant a look.

The Lenin Mausoleum

Walk past the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin (who actually did not want any monuments to be built for him) and join the debate if it is still him.

The Bolshoi Theater

The world-famous Bolshoi Theatre, meaning Big Theatre, is Russia's largest and most famous arts venue.

The Old Arbat

The historical Old Arbat is one of few pedestrian streets in Moscow. In recent years, it has long been considered one of the main cultural centres of Russia. The street boasts some of the country's most famous artists, composers, musicians and writers as its former residents.

Moscow has some of the best restaurants in Russia with prestigious chefs trained in the top kitchens of Europe. The capital offers a variety of different menus that provide a choice of regional or international cuisine. But most of the restaurants in the capital boast an array of gastronomic Azerbaijani specialities, which are highly recommended if you want to try delicious food in Moscow. Many restaurants are located in the very heart of the city, in old mansions, with which interesting stories and legend are closely connected.

Moscow has a terrific choice of shops, boutiques, markets and extraordinary malls to choose from. All the big name brands are here, plus some seriously pricey local producers too. Tverskaya Ulitsa, north of Red Square, is Moscow's most fashionable shopping street with numerous expensive boutiques, whilst most tourist-oriented gift stores tend to be concentrated on touristy Ulitsa Arbat.

Moscow captivates visitors with its thriving nightlife. It is full of events, premieres, concerts and offers everything from bars, clubs, racing, and bowling to fantastic theatres, circuses, cinemas and concert halls. All of them have interesting histories, so you will experience the unique atmosphere and ambience of these places. The city has a terrific choice of places to have fun, so you are sure to find something to suit your taste.

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Reasons to book with us... Financial protection afforded by our ABTA and ATOL industry bonding, giving you complete peace of mind. Dedicated team of experienced travel advisors waiting to tailor your holiday to your personal requirements. We can arrange all of your car hire, airport lounges and much more to make your holiday as easy as possible.

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Disney Resort Hotels at Walt Disney World

EXPLORE OUR WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT HOTELS

Enjoy a magical 14-night stay from just £36 per person, per night next summer † , imagine a place where waking up doesn't mean you need to stop dreaming. when you stay at a disney resort hotel at walt disney world resort, you'll enjoy extra time in the disney parks, imaginative theming, complimentary transportation and so much more. plus, with over 25 disney resort hotels to choose from, there's something for every taste and budget. don't just play in the magic, stay in the magic.

† Average per person, per night price based on 2 adults and 2 kids sharing a Standard Room at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort for 14 nights, arriving on 17th August 2025.

Value Resort Hotels from £36 per person, per night

Our Value Resort hotels are filled with colourful décor, comfortable rooms and themed recreation areas, perfect for families always on the go. Touchdown at Disney's All-Star Sports Resort, a celebration of the world's most popular sports, or step into the spotlight with a salute to classic Disney animations at Disney's All-Star Movies Resort.

Experience our Value Resort hotels with a 14-night stay at Disney's All-Star Sports Resort!

• From £36 per person, per night
• Based on 2 adults and 2 kids
• Arriving on 17th August 2025

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Moderate Resort Hotels from £69 per person, per night

Our Moderate Resort hotels provide spacious rooms and a whole host of dining and recreation options, all rich with Disney motifs. Bob along the bayou at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside, inspired by the romance of rural Louisiana, or discover a lush and vibrant paradise at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort.

Experience our Moderate Resort hotels with a 14-night stay at Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside!

• From £69 per person, per night
• Arriving on 15th August 2025

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Get ready to board one of Stark Industries' new hypersonic vehicles but hold on tight as you're about to blast off into space at superspeed! Make sure you head over to this attraction to save planet Earth!

Deluxe Resort Hotels from £106 per person, per night

Our Deluxe Resort hotels are the ultimate in quality, services and amenities, offering a luxurious experience in unique surroundings. Discover the wildlife and beauty of Africa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, complete with its own leafy savannah, or relax by the bay at the New England-inspired Disney's Beach Club Resort.

Experience our Deluxe Resort hotels with a 14-night stay at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge!

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Deluxe Villas from £100 per person, per night

Our Deluxe Villas are a home away from home, with self-catering facilities and helpful conveniences to give you everything you need. Unwind amongst the golf greens and waterways of Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa or experience the enchanting Disney's Riviera Resort, influenced by European landscapes and style.

Experience our Deluxe Villas with a 14-night stay at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa!

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Relax in fantastical settings inspired by worlds both real and imagined, including some of your favourite Disney and Pixar stories. Wherever you stay, you'll find fun and magical touches in every detail.

Complimentary Resort Transportation

Explore with ease, with complimentary transportation across the entire Resort. Fly high on the Disney Skyliner and zip about on the monorail, plus benefit from bus and boat options.

More Time in the Disney Parks

Make the most of the magic with 30-minute early entry to all 4 Theme Parks every day of your stay, plus extended evening hours at selected Theme Parks on selected nights!

Savour a World of Flavour

Enjoy our great-value Disney Dining Plans, offering pre-paid meals, snacks and drinks throughout your stay. With over 170 dining options throughout Walt Disney World, there's something to delight every taste.

Extra Enhancements

Make dining reservations for your entire length of stay (up to 10 nights) up to 60 days in advance of arrival. With no need to keep checking dining availability ahead of your holiday, all you need to focus on is fun!

Explore the Magic

Enjoy the same legendary storytelling, detail and service found in the Disney Parks and discover enchantment around every corner, include dining experiences, unique recreation activities and familiar Disney friends!

Free Disney Dining & Drinks in 2025!

Don't miss out on FREE Disney Dining & Drinks when booking a Hotel & Ticket package for 2025! This delicious offer is available when staying at selected Disney Resort hotels on selected arrivals between 7th January - 17th December 2025. Book a 2-week stay by 7th November 2024 to enjoy:

• FREE dining worth up to £1,105 per adult §
• 1 non-alcoholic/alcoholic drink per meal
• Disney 14-Day Magic Ticket for the price of a 7-Day
• Memory Maker (worth $210) to capture magical moments
• Park Hopper to visit multiple parks per day
• Complimentary Resort transportation

Plus! Save up to £300 when you book a package by 2nd July!

14-Day Ticket for the Price of 7!

Created especially for the UK and Ireland, Disney Magic Tickets are better value than at the gate and come with a host of incredible benefits including:

• Complimentary Disney Genie Service
• One round of mini-golf per day
• Access to ESPN Wide World of Sports

All Guests of a Disney Resort hotel enjoy 14-Day Magic Ticket for the price of a 7-Day with their Hotel & Ticket package!

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§ Per adult dining value is based on purchasing a two-week Hotel & Ticket package staying at a participating Disney Deluxe Resort hotel for arrivals between 7 Jan. - 17 Dec. 2025. Free Disney Dining & Drinks offer is available for bookings made until 7th November 2025 for selected arrival dates. Full terms and conditions available here

14-Day Ticket for the Price of 7 Offer

Offer is available to book until 29th August 2024 (inclusive) or combined with other offers available, subject to the T&Cs applicable to the other offer. During this time the 14-Day Ticket (Disney 14-Day Magic Ticket) is available for the price of a 7-Day Ticket (Disney 7-Day Magic Ticket) for arrivals from 9th January to 3rd November 2024 (inclusive). Disney 14-Day Magic Ticket is valid for use up to 18 days from first day of use. Disney Magic Tickets provides admission to Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Disney's Blizzard Beach or Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, whichever is open. Please check Know Before You Go for the most current information on Disney Water Parks. Water Parks are subject to rehabilitation, seasonal, capacity and weather closures, or may close for other reasons. Bookings are subject to availability and our Terms and Conditions .

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5 amazing holidays to Japan for an unforgettable adventure

Considering a once-in-a-lifetime Japan holiday? Look no further with these magnificent options

While the country's big-hitting cities such as spiritual Kyoto, cosmopolitan Osaka and vibrant Tokyo, Japan's capital and a popular springboard for Mount Fuji, are all must-sees, there are the sunny southern islands of Japan to discover too. With breath-taking beaches and a slower pace of life, they're the ideal spot for a more leisurely trip. And then there are the Japanese Alps, vast and verdant, and a hugely popular choice for a Japan skiing holiday.

While you need to consider where you'd like to visit on your epic Japan adventure, there's also the case of how . Flights go direct from London to Tokyo, but when it comes to choosing how to traverse this incredible country there are numerous options – from guided coach tours to luxury cruises.

For a helping hand with where to start, we've rounded up some of our favourite ways to discover Japan, including a group tour across the Japanese Alps , a 17-day cruise during beautiful cherry blossom season, and an indulgent inclusive break in sun-drenched Okinawa.

A tour of Japan's essential highlights

Embark on this thrilling 13-day roundtrip from Tokyo, which showcases the magical, ancient heritage of Japan as well as its futuristic, neon-lit metropolises. This guided tour, which includes coach travel and hotel accommodation, will give you plenty of time to soak up the colour and culture of Japan's capital, which boasts the bustling shopping district of Ginza, vivid Harajuku, iridescent Akihabara electric town, and world-famous Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, the commercial district.

Beyond Tokyo, you'll visit majestic Mount Fiji, Japan's tallest peak; ride the Shinkansen, the high-speed bullet train; see the resident deer in the city of Nara; spend the day in Hiroshima, which has been rebuilt into an attractive, modern city; and have the chance to stay in a ryokan , a typical Japanese inn, in Kyoto. This accessible and fully-organised tour covers all the essentials and more.

Join us on the Good Housekeeping 13-day Japan tour in August 2024.

A cruise in beautiful cherry blossom season

One of the biggest draws to Japan is undeniably its picturesque cherry blossom season and the custom of hanami , admiring the beauty of it. Every spring, millions of locals and visitors alike patiently wait for the first sakura (the Japanese term for cherry blossom) buds to bloom, showing off their delicate, baby pink-hued petals. The abundance of blossom flowering is celebrated with festivals, picnics and the eating of seasonal, sakura-themed delicacies.

If experiencing this springtime phenomenon is on your bucket list, then this 17-day cruise in Japan is for you. While giving you the opportunity to catch the cherry blossom in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, the leisurely sailing with Holland America enables you to see plenty more of Japan, too. Other port stops include Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Aomori and the lively, karaoke-loving city of Busan in South Korea. And all of this is without mentioning the incredible entertainment, food and bars onboard your ship, of course.

Embark on a 17-day cherry blossom cruise around Japan with Good Housekeeping in 2025.

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A jaunt through the Japanese Alps with plenty of tradition

While this group tour ticks off the unmissable cities of Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Nara, it takes its guests on a journey through the beautiful Japanese Alps, a series of mountain ranges on the island of Honshu. This mountainous region is home to an abundance of picturesque cities and towns, all offering a glimpse into Japan's rural life. On this 13-day tour you'll visit the pretty city of Takayama, which brims with Edo Period houses, food and craft markets and traditional restaurants.

You'll also get the chance to wander the village of Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its thatched roof farmhouses that are said to resemble the praying hands of Buddhist monks. Along with admiring gorgeous scenery, you'll have the chance to get on hands-on with activities such as miso-making, washi paper-making, gold leaf crafting and origami. If you're craving a taste of traditional Japan, you'll find bags of it on this brilliantly-curated trip.

Explore the Japanese Alps with Good Housekeeping in 2024 or 2025.

A city break in Tokyo, Japan's energetic capital

If you've got limited time or would prefer to dedicate your trip to just one destination in Japan, then Tokyo is the answer. Known as Edo until 1868, the Japanese capital is the world's most populous city and thus it's a melting pot of activity, culture and cuisines. As city breaks go, you'll be spoilt for choice here: see the Imperial Palace and many landscaped gardens (we like Koishikawa Korakuen and Hama Rikyu) in central Tokyo, the museums and towering Skytree viewing platform for city-wide views in northern Tokyo, and the busy shopping and entertainment districts of Shibuya, Shinjuku and Harajuku in the west.

For easy access to all of this (and so much more) it's best to base yourself centrally, and a hotel would give you the benefit of a helpful concierge to offer recommendations, book transfers and advise on transport throughout your trip. In a city with so much to offer, a bit of local knowledge goes a long way.

Plan a Tokyo city break British Airways, where you can book flights and hotels as a package.

A relaxing all-inclusive holiday in Okinawa

The idyllic island of Ishigaki is part of the Okinawa Prefecture in southern Japan, where the climate is tropical and the weather is warm and humid all year round. It's here that you'll find Club Med's Kabira Ishigaki resort , perched on the edge of the Kabira peninsula with endless views of the turquoise ocean ahead. A family-friendly resort, Kabira Ishigaki is the ideal way to see Japan with a hearty side of rest and relaxation. You can lounge around the freshwater pool and unwind with a treatment in the spa, or, on days where you can muster the energy, try your hand at windsurfing or kayaking in the crystal-clear sea.

The ocean is sacred here, as it's home to manta rays and other marine life, and guests wanting to learn more about life under the water's surface can book eco-friendly snorkelling tours or day trips to nearby islands. There's the chance to experience local culture on dry land too, as guests can take part in sanshin lessons (an Okinawan musical instrument that's similar to a banjo) and sample Okinawan flavours with a selection of traditional dishes, all served in a restaurant that offers 180-degree sea views. Sounds like paradise to us...

Soak up the sun, sand and sea of southern Japan at Club Med's Kabira Ishigaki resort.

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Best time to visit Japan: Here's when to go

The best places to visit in Japan

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Michael Portillo is back with a new travel series

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15 April 2024

IHG Hotels & Resorts and NOVUM Hospitality sign agreement that doubles IHG’s hotel presence in Germany, launches Holiday Inn – the niu collaboration, and debuts Garner and Candlewood Suites brands 

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) and NOVUM Hospitality announce a long-term agreement that will double IHG’s presence in Germany to more than 200 hotels in almost 100 cities through an exciting Holiday Inn – the niu brand collaboration and European debuts for IHG’s Garner and Candlewood Suites brands.

The agreement with NOVUM Hospitality, one of Germany’s largest private hotel operators, owned by David Etmenan, will make IHG one of the leading players in midscale and upper midscale, and includes the following key elements:

• Up to 108 NOVUM Hospitality open hotels (15,334 rooms) and 11 hotels under development (2,369 rooms) are expected to join IHG’s system between 2024 and 2028. Conversion of the hotels to IHG’s system will happen in phases beginning in 2024, with the majority to take place over the next 24 months. This will increase IHG’s global system size by up to 1.9% over the coming years.
• A total of 52 open and pipeline hotels will join IHG through a distinctive collaboration between Holiday Inn and the niu , NOVUM Hospitality’s stylish, flagship upper midscale brand. This will combine the domestic presence of the niu with Holiday Inn’s trusted reputation and global brand recognition to build a leading position in a key target market. NOVUM Hospitality’s other brands, Yggotel , Select and Novum with 56 open and pipeline hotels will convert to IHG’s new midscale conversion brand, Garner , and the acora Living the City brand with 11 open and pipeline hotels will convert to IHG’s midscale extended stay brand, Candlewood Suites .
• Under the agreement, IHG will receive franchise fees after the phased conversion of existing properties and upon the opening of the hotels under development. Additionally, standard assessments will be received into IHG’s System Fund, including those to cover the operation of IHG One Rewards, and marketing and reservation services. IHG will contribute key money capital expenditure that will reflect the phased conversion and timing of openings of this major portfolio of hotels.
• The agreement includes an exclusivity arrangement for future NOVUM Hospitality hotels to join IHG’s leading brands and enterprise system, with an ambition to jointly develop further hotels over time.
• The agreement has a term of 30 years and the option to renew for additional terms.

A total of 111 NOVUM Hospitality properties are in Germany, with the remaining eight in Austria, the Netherlands and the UK. Germany is one of Europe’s largest hotel markets, with strong domestic consumption, inbound and outbound travel. In 2022, there were over 450 million overnight stays in Germany, the second highest in Europe, and the country generated the highest number of international outbound travellers globally, around 100 million.

IHG’s growth in Germany will be supported by continued investment in building localised commercial platforms, such as the recent introduction of loyalty partnerships and improved booking systems. IHG expects its increased scale to bring significant benefits to NOVUM Hospitality and other IHG owners, including higher brand awareness, direct bookings and loyalty engagement, to capture both domestic demand and German outbound business. It will also drive the development of IHG’s brands across more locations.

NOVUM Hospitality will adopt IHG brands and systems for this entire portfolio, becoming one of IHG’s largest franchisees globally, with access to IHG’s powerful commercial engine and technology platforms to drive hotel performance, efficient hotel operations and customer experience.

Elie Maalouf, Chief Executive Officer, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with such a respected group as NOVUM Hospitality and double IHG’s presence in Germany, one of Europe’s largest hotel markets and a growth priority for our business. This agreement demonstrates the appeal to owners of our powerful enterprise and IHG’s success in attracting excellent conversion opportunities to grow our system size. It also creates a strong domestic German platform to increase demand and brand awareness, as well as capture a larger share of the millions of outbound trips made each year across Europe and beyond. We’re excited to bring a modern, bold and dynamic experience to market with our Holiday Inn - the niu collaboration, which pairs our world-famous Holiday Inn brand with a high-quality local brand that has an excellent, largely newly-built estate. Equally, bringing Garner to Europe in such a critical market as Germany is a great moment, as is taking Candlewood Suites outside of the Americas for the first time. Both IHG and NOVUM Hospitality share a deep commitment to true hospitality, quality and growth, and we look forward to expanding together in the years to come.”

David Etmenan, Chief Executive Officer and Owner, NOVUM Hospitality, commented: “Partnering with IHG, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, equips our family-run business with the firepower needed to fortify our market presence across Europe. This collaboration enables us to concentrate on delivering exceptional hotel experiences while leveraging the globally acclaimed brand recognition of IHG. Forging a co-brand between the niu and Holiday Inn sees two perfectly complementary brands come together, enhancing our appeal to guests on a global scale. Accessing IHG’s state-of-the-art global distribution network provides us with enhanced sales and revenue capabilities, ensuring sustained commercial success while retaining full flexibility and independence for NOVUM Hospitality, as the company remains in our ownership entirely. Beyond the strategic advantages, the alignment of our values and principles throughout the negotiation process with IHG underscores the compatibility of our alliance. We deeply value the respect and consideration accorded to our the niu brand and eagerly anticipate the promising future that lies ahead in our joint endeavours.”

Further brand details:

• Holiday Inn is an award-winning icon, voted the most trusted hotel brand in US travel. Providing leisure guests, business travellers and families with great places to stay since 1952, Holiday Inn has over 1,200 hotels globally and a further 250 properties in its pipeline.
• Holiday Inn – the niu is a collaboration anchored in distinctive design and memorable hospitality. Already renowned for its commitment to neighbourly service and individually designed hotels inspired by their location, urban art and pop-culture, the niu is a fresh brand with a strong reputation. Combining it with Holiday Inn , alongside the award-winning IHG One Rewards loyalty programme and IHG’s powerful enterprise platform, will further elevate the stay experience, grow market share by reaching new leisure and business guests, and accelerate expansion into new locations.
• The first US Garner hotel opened in Seattle in late 2023 within three months of the brand being franchise-ready, and it has since launched in Japan, Mexico and Canada. With today’s announcement, Garner is now franchise ready across IHG’s Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa (EMEAA) region. Garner is designed for travellers of all ages seeking a reliable, relaxed experience at an affordable price. It is becoming the leading choice for guests wanting great value stays at high‑quality properties, and for owners seeking higher returns in the midscale space. IHG expects Garner to reach over 500 open hotels in the next 10 years and 1,000 hotels in the next 20 years in the US alone.
• Candlewood Suites is IHG’s midscale extended stay brand, providing a casual and friendly environment with everything guests need to live, work and relax while away from home. For over 25 years, the brand has provided great value for guests, while also allowing owners to benefit from a highly efficient operating model. Candlewood Suites has a combined open and pipeline estate of over 520 hotels across the Americas.

For further information, please contact:

About IHG ®

IHG Hotels & Resorts [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)] is a global hospitality company, with a purpose to provide True Hospitality for Good.

With a family of 19 hotel brands and IHG One Rewards , one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes, IHG has over 6,300 open hotels in more than 100 countries, and a development pipeline of over 2,000 properties.

• Luxury & Lifestyle: Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas , Regent Hotels & Resorts , InterContinental Hotels & Resorts , Vignette Collection , Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants , Hotel Indigo
• Premium: voco hotels , HUALUXE Hotels & Resorts , Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts , EVEN Hotels
• Essentials: Holiday Inn Express , Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts , Garner hotels , avid hotels
• Suites: Atwell Suites , Staybridge Suites , Holiday Inn Club Vacations , Candlewood Suites
• Exclusive Partners: Iberostar Beachfront Resorts

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC is the Group's holding company and is incorporated and registered in England and Wales. Approximately 345,000 people work across IHG's hotels and corporate offices globally.

Visit us online for more about our hotels and reservations and IHG One Rewards . To download the IHG One Rewards app, visit the Apple App or Google Play stores.

For our latest news, visit our Newsroom  and follow us on LinkedIn .

About NOVUM Hospitality

With a distinguished portfolio of over 150 hotels (incl. secured pipeline), encompassing more than 20,000 rooms across 60 premier locations throughout Europe, NOVUM Hospitality is ranked among the biggest family-run hotel groups in Germany. Founded in 1988 and geared for growth since 2004, NOVUM Hospitality has been successfully expanding under the visionary leadership of Chief Executive Officer & Owner, David Etmenan. The hotel portfolio comprises midscale and upper midscale hotels in central locations run under acclaimed brands such as the niu, Select Hotels, Novum Hotels, Yggotel and acora Living the City. Additionally, NOVUM Hospitality proudly serves as a franchisee for InterContinental Hotels Group, Accor, and Hilton. The renowned Treugast Investment Ranking, an annual assessment of the foremost hotel companies in Germany, awards NOVUM Hospitality with an 'A' rating, underscoring their commitment to excellence and industry leadership. www.novum-hospitality.com