aquamarine travel uk

There is a danger to getting addicted to the unrivaled beauty of this world. Consider yourself warned.

 Welcome to Aquamarine Cruises and Tours.

  It started with the name.  Legends say that Aquamarine - the treasure of mermaids - was carried by traders and ancient sailors to protect them from the perils of the sea.

 It continues with the passion to travel and all romantic, enlightening and addictive aspects of it. It culminates with the service.

  Contrary to what you might think, I am a Travel Advisor, not a salesperson, for I don't have any specific product to sell. 

 I see my business as helping people to make the right travel-planning decision. The whole idea is more like using a skilled CPA or a financial analyst because making the right choice can be quite time consuming and the consequences of making the wrong choice can be quite costly or even dangerous.

One must research suppliers, test tour operators and service providers, inspect properties, observe the countries’ political situation, watch over weather reports and be aware of the airlines financial status. But you, you do not have to do all of that, because you know my phone number.  

 I am  your knowledgeable advisor, enthusiastic guide, devoted partner, competent problem solver and hard-working assistant, helping you to arrange a remarkable journey that will be regarded as one of the brightest moments of your life. I do it by negotiating with vendors, considering all details, comparing various options and hand-picking a few made just for you.

  However, as my client, you are still in the driver's seat in everything I do - as much or as little as you want to be. The whole process is controlled by your preferences. I just take the stress out of it so that you can have all of the fun and enjoyment of designing your trip: this way, your vacation starts the minute you begin dreaming about it.

News and Events

Amawaterways schedules the debut of colombia river cruises..

 River cruise line AmaWaterways has announced that it is building two new river cruise vessels specifically for the Magdalena River, in Colombia, where it plans to set sail in 2024. 

 Lufthansa  has unveiled new first   class cabins.

  First-class suites for two. Seven business-class options to choose from. Reclining premium economy seats that don’t encroach on the passengers behind. Lufthansa’s new Allegris cabins are a game changer.

Lighthouse Point will offer a day of fun for the Disney guests.

 Disney Cruise Line will welcome guests to a one-of-a-kind island destination at Lighthouse Point, located on the island of Eleuthera in The Bahamas, for the first time during its opening season in summer 2024.

What you need to know about the New Rules on airline refunds.

 In an effort to crack down on airlines that charge passengers steep fees to check bags and change flights, the DOT  has announced the new regulations aimed at expanding consumer protections.

Immerse yourself in the highlights of Colombia along this magnificent river.

 The Magdalena River cruises all either begin or end in the colonial coastal city of Cartagena.

The Magdalena River is part of Colombia’s lifeblood. Flowing northward nearly 1,000 miles along the western side of the country before spilling into the Caribbean Sea, the waterway has served as a critical transport link throughout history.

 Today, it connects numerous towns and cities, snaking through a region with impressive biodiversity. And in 2024, travelers will for the first time be able to experience this rich waterway from the comfort and convenience of luxury river cruise ships.

The two itineraries, dubbed “Wonders of Colombia” and “Magic of Colombia,” will each sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla—the main difference between the two sailings will be that they each start and end in reverse ports.

 Highlights of both itineraries will include participating in walking tours and jazz performances in historical cities, like Mompox (a UNESCO World Heritage site known for colonial buildings that mix Spanish and Indigenous characteristics); scanning the riverbanks for some 2,000 birds species, many of which are endemic to Colombia; and visiting Palenque, known for its Mayan ruins and for being the first “free city” in the Americas, as it was founded by those who fled slavery in colonial times.

  Lufthansa unveils new cabins with over-the-top First and Business class suites.

  Grab your favorite travel companion and book a 

 two-seater first-class “Suite Plus” in Lufthansa’s forthcoming  cabins

  In a sweeping overhaul of the airline’s international passenger experience, German flag carrier  Lufthansa  has unveiled new cabins

  The refreshed on-board product, dubbed  “Allegris”  by the airline, is a nose-to-tail upgrade across all four classes of service. It will be first installed on wide-body planes later this year, beginning with newly delivered Boeing 787-9s in September (although that plane won’t have first class). All told, more than 80 Lufthansa aircraft will be configured with Allegris

  While economy and premium economy passengers will receive enhanced seats, it’s business- and first-class guests who will get the lion’s share of upgrades.

First class Suite Plus will be first introduced in 2024 on the Airbus A350-900. First-class passengers will get to choose between two different seating arrangements. While all three suites will be fully enclosed, with floor-to-ceiling walls and sliding doors one suite will be extra special.

  The center section, a “Suite Plus,” will allow for two passengers to travel together in one double seat, with the ability to dine and recline together. Uniquely, the seat also turns into a full-size bed without a divider in the middle. Solo passengers will also have the option to book the Suite Plus for extra space.

All first-class suites will feature a dining table, a 32-inch or 43-inch 4K monitor, and a personal wardrobe area.

   In the new Allegris layout, business-class passengers will have the choice of a seven seat types, with options such as a large suite with a door and mini bar and a seat with an extra-long bed that’s nearly eight inches longer than others.

  All business-class passengers, regardless of seat type, will be able to enjoy direct aisle access, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and heating and cooling functionality at each seat.

 Premium economy guests will find seats with a fixed-back shell, meaning reclining won’t encroach on the passenger behind. There will also be a 15.6-inch 4K monitor, wireless charging stations, leg rests, a separate cocktail table, a personal reading light, a coat hook, and a water bottle holder.

 Lufthansa didn’t neglect economy guests with the forthcoming overhaul. Each seat in coach will feature a 13.3-inch 4K entertainment monitor, USB-C and USC-A power outlets, and Bluetooth headphone connectivity. Travelers will also have the option of booking a “neighbor-free” seat, which allows fliers to block an adjacent seat for more personal space.

New Disney Cruise Line island destination at Lighthouse Point in The Bahamas

Created in close collaboration with local artists and advisors, the vibrant island retreat at Lighthouse Point will be a unique celebration of Bahamian culture brought to life with the quality and service of a Disney vacation.

At Lighthouse Point, families will enjoy a day of fun in the sun as they relax on pristine beaches, embark on active adventures and discover the magic of Bahamian storytelling alongside favorite Disney characters. 

Set away from the main family area, a peaceful beach along the southwestern shore will be lined with 20  family cabanas available to rent, including four double cabanas that accommodate larger groups. 

  Additional recreational activities will be available for kids and kids-at-heart, including a covered gaming pavilion; a volleyball court and gaga ball pit; watercraft and bicycle rentals; nature trails for hiking and biking; and more. And a collection of new Port Adventures developed in partnership with local tour operators will take guests beyond Lighthouse Point to explore the rich culture and breathtaking beauty of Eleuthera

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) took one of its strongest stances to date to protect the traveling consumer. The agency issued new rules mandating that all airlines flying to, through, or from the United States provide travelers with immediate cash refunds in the event of a cancellation or significant delay.

 Airline passengers will be entitled to a prompt refund for:

Any canceled or significantly altered flight. You will be able to get a refund if your flight is canceled or significantly delayed if you do not accept the travel voucher or alternative transportation offered by the airline. The rule defines a significant delay or change as a departure or arrival time of more than three hours after initially scheduled for domestic flights and six hours for international flights; a change in arrival or departure airport; an increase in the number of connections (for instance, adding a layover to what initially supposed to be a nonstop flight); a downgraded class of service; connection through a different airport; or switching to an aircraft that is less accessible for a person with a disability.

Delayed baggage. You will be entitled to a refund of your checked bag fee if your luggage is not delivered within 12 hours of a domestic flight arrival or 15 to 30 hours after an international flight arrival (the time frame is dependent on the length of the flight).

Services that aren’t provided. A refund will be required for any service that was paid for but not received, including Wi-Fi, specific seat selection, and in-flight entertainment.

In addition, carriers and ticket agents must be transparent about charges for checked and carry-on bags and canceling or changing a reservation. On airline websites, all fees must be listed when travelers see the price and schedule. The DOT estimates the new rules will save American travelers more than $500 million annually.

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Aquamarine Cruises and Tours

 It started with the name. Legends say that Aquamarine - the treasure of mermaids - was carried by traders and ancient sailors to protect them from the perils of the sea.  It continues with the passion to travel and all romantic, enlightening and addictive aspects of it.  It culminates with the service. Contrary to what you might think, I am a Travel Consultant, not a salesperson, for I don't have any specific product to sell. I see my business as helping people to make the right travel planning decision. The whole idea is more like using a skilled CPA or a financial analyst because making the right choice can be quite time consuming and   the consequences of making the wrong choice can be quite costly or even dangerous.  Yes, any experienced and intelligent people are perfectly capable of doing it themselves, but they would have to spend twelve hours a day reading and processing tons of information - this is, after all, a very dynamic industry. One must research suppliers, test tour operators and service providers, inspect properties, observe the countries political situation, watch over weather reports and be aware of the airlines financial status. But you, you do not have to do all of that, because you know my phone number.  I am your knowledgeable advisor, enthusiastic guide, devoted partner, competent problem solver and hard-working assistant, helping you to arrange a remarkable journey that will be regarded as the brightest moments of your life. I am doing it by negotiating with vendors, considering all details, comparing various options and hand-picking a few made just for you.  However, as my client, you are still in the driver's seat in everything I do - as much or as little as you want to be. The whole process is controlled by your preferences, no matter how unique they may seem. I just take the stress out of it so that you can have all of the fun and enjoyment of designing your trip: this way, your vacation starts the minute you begin dreaming about it.

Schlossbeleuchtung - Castle Illumination from Marina Leonov on Vimeo .

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New Travel Health Clinic opens in Plymouth

Plymouth based business Aquamarine Medicals has recently expanded by opening its sister clinic Aquamarine Health Clinic. Aquamarine Medicals led by Dr Christine Penny, has been providing medicals to the Maritime and Offshore Industries in Plymouth for the last 4 years.

With the recent closure of the NHS led MASTA travel clinic in Plymouth, Dr Penny recognised there was a need for a travel health service in Plymouth and the surrounding area. Aquamarine has stepped up to meet this demand.

Aquamarine Health Clinic is a CQC Registered, Doctor Led, Health Clinic based in central Plymouth. Specializing in travel health but also offering occupational vaccines, private blood tests and a range of medicals.

Dr Julie Hunt has returned to Plymouth to lead the Health Clinic, she says;

“After nearly a decade away from the Ocean City, I am delighted to have retuned and to be working with Aquamarine Medicals.  There is a need for a local travel clinic and Aquamarine have stepped up to meet it.  We will also be running a private blood test service and providing occupational vaccines to those who need them.  Why not check out our new website and see what we can do for you?” 

We look forward to welcoming all clients, old and new to the clinic.

All enquires should be directed to [email protected] or  01752 289317 

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We are the UK’s No.1 independent marine travel specialist, operating for over a decade in the marine and offshore industry.

Our global reach enable us access to over 140 marine and 70 offshore fares offering a choice of cabins and increased luggage allowances.  Giving the ability to cancel and change your flights to suit your plans and allowing an increased luggage allowance.

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Thanks to our vast experience in these industries we know things can change a quickly as the tide.  Your time is precious, don’t leave your travel plans to chance, place your trust in our knowledgeable and service-minded experts.

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Lupine Travel is a UK-based travel company that specialises in small group tours to the most unique countries on earth. Since 2008, our mission has been to give travellers a chance to experience off-the-beaten-track adventures at an affordable price. With local experts guiding the way, our tours will promote economic growth and protect the communities, environment, and people that make these places unique. We can’t wait for you to join us and see these unforgettable destinations with your own eyes. From gorilla trekking in the Congo Rainforest to seeing the unforgettable island of Socotra, our tours offer unique destinations at affordable prices for every type of traveller. Check out our destinations for your next holiday.

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Shirley Bassey to auction jewellery including diamond ring from Elton John

Pieces from Diamonds are Forever singer’s collection will be exhibited by Sotheby’s London before being auctioned for charity in Paris

Diamonds Are Forever singer Shirley Bassey is to auction some of her extensive and “meaningful” jewellery collection, including a diamond ring given to her by Elton John.

Top lots from her collection, which will be exhibited by Sotheby’s London later this month before being auctioned for charity in Paris, include a diamond necklace estimated to sell for between €270,000 and €320,000 (£232,420 and £275,460). A diamond and gold parure created by Cartier is estimated to fetch between €200,000 and €250,000 (£172,170 and £215,210).

The 87-year-old famously sang about diamonds in the 1971 James Bond film starring Sean Connery and said she accepted the offer to sing the track as the lyrics “rang true to me and the way I felt about diamonds then and now.”

“Collecting jewellery for me is like collecting memories and this collection is full of them,” Bassey said. “All the pieces are meaningful and have a story to tell, whether I bought them for myself or they were gifted to me.

“There is this beautiful 1960s vintage Van Cleef & Arpels ring covered in white diamonds that Elton John gave me after I sang at one of his Aids Gala evenings and which I’ve worn so many times.

“Or the ruby and diamond heart parure I spotted in a fine jeweller’s window during a stopover in Bangkok on my way to my very first concert tour of Australia.

“And perhaps one of the most special pieces in the collection is this emerald parure I bought myself to commemorate my very first Royal Variety Performance in front of the late Queen.”

Bassey said she fell in love with jewellery “as an up-and-coming singer and I bought myself my first string of pearls – the first piece of jewellery I’d ever bought.”

Other lots include a yellow diamond ring, which could fetch between €165,000 and €200,000 (£142,030 and £172,150), and an aquamarine, sapphire, diamond and gem set estimated to sell for between €60,000 and €70,000 (£51,640 and £60,250).

Highlights from the collection will be exhibited at Sotheby’s London from 24 May to 29 before it exhibits in Paris from 4 October prior to the live auction, taking place at Sotheby’s Paris on 10 October.

The collection is part of the Sotheby’s Fine Jewels biannual sale, with proceeds benefiting Bassey’s chosen charities.

• Shirley Bassey

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10 Outdated Summer Dress Trends We're Skipping and the 10 Ones Buying Instead

With summer just around the corner, dresses are on my mind. Once temps hit above 75, there's nothing more blissful than taking a break from my usual wardrobe and allowing a single item of clothing to speak to my entire look. Easy, effortless, and reliable for work, the weekend, vacation, and a myriad of summer occasions, dresses are all I want to live in come June, July, and August.

Luckily, we have plenty of fresh styles to get excited about this summer. Determined to add some of-the-moment styles to my wardrobe, I did a deep dive and scoured everything from spring and summer 2024 runways to what's trending on Instagram. I also got plenty of notes from my fellow editors to see what specific dress styles have the fashion-crowd stamp of approval this summer.

If you're also looking for a summer dress update, you're in luck. I'm sharing 10 noteworthy dress styles to invest in and the 10 styles I'll be retiring (for now). From a fresh take on floral dresses to sheer fabrics and strapless silhouettes, the dresses below are sure to get you excited for summer.

1. Skip: Gingham

Wear: crochet.

Style Notes: Open-knit and crochet fabrics are everywhere this summer in neutral hues, warm yellows, and metallics. So skip the gingham for now and opt for a crochet dress in a sleek and streamlined silhouette instead to keep your look polished.

Shop the Trend:

This is such a cool take on a holiday staple.

You can easily take this crochet dress from day-to-night.

I love the added embroidery on this version.

2. Skip: Baby-Doll Silhouettes

Wear: strapless silhouettes .

Style Notes: It's all about shoulder-baring strapless silhouettes this summer. Whether you lean into the '90s minimalist trend or go for a bold print or vibrant colour, this sleek silhouette will dominate this season.

This can be dressed down with sandals or up with slingbacks and an oversized blazer.

This dress will hug you in all the right places.

The perfect LBD.

3. Skip: Wrap Dresses

Wear: draping + ruching.

Style Notes: S/S 24 runways were rife with beautiful goddess-inspired draped dresses and irresistible ruching details. Both retailers and the fashion set have been quick to jump on the pretty trend, and there's no doubt we'll see it in full force this summer.

I love the shade of this pretty H&M dress.

Wear this with neutral accessories for an effortlessly chic look.

Red is back again this summer as a trending colour.

4. Skip: T-Shirt Dresses

Wear: linen dresses.

Style Notes: Set aside your casual T-shirt dress in favor of a breezy linen dress instead. There are so many chic options with elevated details on the market right now that will have you looking effortlessly elegant.

A white linen dress is an investment you'll never regret.

Simple yet so elegant.

5. Skip: '80s Puff-Sleeve Dresses

Wear: '90s minimalist dresses.

Style Notes: As we've seen, chich and minimalist silhouettes from the '90s are trending. Take a break from puff sleeves and opt for a sleek and versatile dress that will go with almost everything in your closet.

This is such an easy dress to style up or down.

Skims makes the most comfortable layering dresses.

6. Skip: Ditsy Florals

Wear: rosettes.

Style Notes: Skip the ditsy prints in favor of bold and beautiful rosettes this season. The pretty appliqué is a trend-forward way to wear your florals this summer. And luckily, its dominance is expected to continue into fall!

Magda Butrym is known for its beautiful rosette dresses.

Doesn't this look way more expensive than it is?

You can dress this down with an oversized denim jacket and trainers or up with heels and a clutch.

7. Skip: Tiered Dresses

Wear: silky slips.

Style Notes: Silky satin slip dresses always look so luxe and alluring. Go for a lingerie-inspired slip with lace or a '90s-inspired silhouette for a look that will seamlessly take you from day to night.

A satin slip will always look elegant.

Wear with ballet flats and a neutral trench.

I'm obsessed with this shade of pink.

8. Skip: Polka-Dot Prints

Wear: mermaidcore dresses .

Style Notes: From shimmery sequins to aquamarine hues and cascading ruffles, the mermaidcore trend is going strong this season, and we're seeing plenty of stunning dresses that prove it. Skip polka-dot prints for now, and go for a dreamy marine-inspired style instead.

Such a pretty shade for summer.

How cool is this?

A sequin and lace dress in one.

9. Skip: Corduroy Dresses

Wear: denim dresses.

Style Notes: Denim dresses are in the spotlight this summer after dominating S/S 24 runways. Whether you opt for a loose slip dress or a retro minidress, you're guaranteed to look on-trend sporting denim this summer.

This is at the top of my holiday wishlist.

I love the retro feel this dress has.

COS is so good for elevated basics.

10. Skip: Leather Fabrics

Wear: sheer fabrics.

Style Notes: Fresh, fun, and feminine. Sheer dresses were one of the biggest trends on S/S 24 runways, and both the fashion crowd and celebrities have been all over the transparent style this season. Leave your leather dresses for another time, and opt for a subtly see-through frock instead.

An elevated take on the LBD.

I love the subtle metallic finish on this dress.

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.

I want one.

By Natalie Munro

The French fashion content I didn't know I needed.

Double-tap-worthy dressing.

By Remy Farrell

A classic summer staple.

Comfortable and stylish.

And it's surprisingly easy to copy.

Now that's versatility.

Game changers.

By Anna Newton

A head-turning take on the classic LBD.

All-round winners.

By Emily Dawes

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