I’ve sailed the Danube with multiple river cruise lines, including AmaWaterways, Uniworld, Tauck, Scenic, Avalon and Viking. Here’s what those experiences taught me about choosing the best Danube river cruise for you.
Best Danube River Cruise Line? I’ve Sailed Several — Here’s How I’d Choose Read More »
River cruise lines may sail the same rivers, but the onboard experience can be remarkably different. Here’s why I believe firsthand experience matters when helping travellers choose the right river, cruise line, ship, cabin and season.
Why Firsthand Experience Matters When Choosing a River Cruise Read More »
The Amazon isn’t just for serious birders. On an expedition cruise, the river slows you down long enough to notice what’s overhead — scarlet macaws, toucans, prehistoric-looking hoatzins and, if you’re very lucky, a harpy eagle.
Are You a Birder? An Amazon Expedition Cruise Might Change That Read More »
Europe’s rivers are running historically low this year, and if you’ve got a Rhine or Danube sailing coming up, you deserve a clear answer — not a headline. Here’s exactly what I’m seeing, line by line, and why it matters.
Europe River Cruise Water Levels 2026 | Lush Life Travel Read More »
A Virtuoso Cruise Icon and former actuary explains what a river and expedition cruise travel advisor actually does behind the scenes — from monitoring water levels to negotiating supplier disruptions in real time.
What Your Travel Advisor Actually Does (That You Never See) | Lush Life Travel Read More »
Viking vs. Avalon: I’ve sailed both river cruise lines, and the real difference isn’t the ports — the castles and rivers are the same either way. It comes down to passenger density, dining style, and a handful of booking details most travellers never think to ask about. Here’s what I’ve actually learned onboard.
Viking vs. Avalon: Which River Cruise Line Is Right for You? Read More »
Former actuary turned three-time Virtuoso Cruise Icon Sheila Gallant-Halloran has personally sailed river, expedition and small-ship vessels, met the people behind the brands, and experienced the products she recommends. Here’s why that firsthand knowledge matters when planning a major cruise journey.
Virtuoso Cruise Icon: Meet Ottawa’s Top Cruise Advisor Read More »
Sheila Gallant-Halloran earned her Tauck certification on one of Tauck’s own river cruises — not a webinar. Years later, after sailing with Arthur and Ronni Tauck themselves, she recently re-certified. Here’s why that still matters when she recommends a trip to you.
Tauck Certified Advisor: Why It Still Matters | Lush Life Read More »
Some evenings remind you why you love what you do. Last week, I had the privilege of celebrating my wonderful Lush Life Travel clients alongside the incredible AmaWaterways Team Canada at the beautiful Ottawa Hunt & Golf Club. The evening was all about saying thank you to past AmaWaterways guests, while learning about exciting new
Celebrating Loyalty, Friendship & River Cruising Read More »
A Paris Christmas river cruise offers a different way to experience the City of Light. After sailing Europe’s rivers myself, here’s why Uniworld’s S.S. Joie de Vivre stands out—and why expert planning makes all the difference.
