Andrea Ballard Travel Advisor - Go Make Friends With the World

09/08/2026

Provence has a different rhythm when you experience it from the river. 🇫🇷

A journey along the Rhône with AmaWaterways pairs vineyard-dotted landscapes, historic cities, and unhurried mornings on a private balcony with evenings spent savoring regional cuisine and celebrated w**es.

From Avignon to Arles, the Colors of Provence itinerary offers an immersive way to experience one of France’s most captivating regions. ✨

Discover more here: https://virtuoso.com/advisor/andreaballard/travel/luxury-cruises/cruise-lines/6215377/amawaterways

09/06/2026

Spread across almost 5.4 million square miles and experiencing very low rainfall, Antarctica is the largest desert in the world. In January 2028, Le Commandant Charcot will attempt to circumnavigate it. ​

Join this expedition on board for 61-nights of elemental, immersive, and transformative polar exploration.

See more via the link below:
https://inspires.to/experiences/antarctica-with-ponant-explorations-o2r0kr

📸©Studio PONANT - Ophélie Bleunven, Clement Louineau ​
📸©PONANT - JC Pieri

09/05/2026

The Mediterranean is a completely different experience in winter, and that’s exactly why it appeals to those who want to enjoy it at a calmer pace.

With Explora Journeys, this winter escape from Lisbon to Rome (23 February to 05 March 2027) takes you through Cádiz, Málaga, and Sicily when the destinations feel serene, easier to explore, and far less crowded than in peak season.

You get sunny days, more space, and the chance to enjoy each stop, all while keeping the comfort of your ocean terrace suite and everything already included on board.

If you’re looking for a winter holiday that feels more relaxed, more comfortable, and a little different from the usual, let’s reserve your suite now.

09/03/2026

San Francisco has always known how to reinvent itself, and the city is in the midst of another comeback. New art trails, illuminated landmarks, buzzy restaurants, and revived neighborhoods are bringing a renewed sense of energy to the Bay Area's beauty. 🌁🥂

Read on about its new golden age, then let’s work together to plan your next vacation:

📷: Natasha Lee

New restaurants, buzzy bars, and fresh openings – from JouJou and Frankie’s to the Big Art Loop and A Bathing Ape’s new flagship – are fueling a comeback in this Bay Area beauty.

09/03/2026

Next year, the S.S. Audrey will be setting sail along the Rhine River and its tributaries in Belgium and the Netherlands. The ship is inspired by beloved actress Audrey Hepburn, who was born in this region. Beautiful onboard spaces pay homage to Hepburn’s life and works, with elements of her iconic style imbued throughout.

09/01/2026

In the heart of Rome, Hotel Hassler Roma offers a welcome sense of calm, with gracious service, elegant rooms, and aperitivi served just so.

Here are five reasons this storied stay is a must-visit, from its vast w**e collection to its enviable location above the Spanish Steps. 🇮🇹❤️

The Roman standby recently reopened with two refashioned lounges and a facelift for Michelin-starred Imàgo.

08/30/2026

A new odyssey in the heart of the Pacific 🌊

Venture beyond the turquoise lagoons of the Society Islands to discover a lesser-known, deeply authentic Polynesia. In anticipation of the arrival of Le Jacques Cartier in 2026, José Sarica, Director of the PONANT EXPLORATIONS expedition experience, embarked on an exclusive discovery journey into the heart of the Pacific.

This is the story of an immersive expedition, working hand in hand with local communities to help shape the future of travel in Polynesia and build meaningful, long-term relationships rooted in respect and shared vision.

Click below to discover these new exciting voyages to French Polynesia:
https://www.calameo.com/read/0001324232ff986d63789

08/29/2026

Winter in the Mediterranean has a calmer rhythm, and that’s exactly what makes it appealing.

Sailing aboard EXPLORA II, this itinerary gives you the chance to move through the region when everything feels more open, and easier to enjoy, without the intensity of peak season.

It becomes less about rushing through a list of places and more about enjoying the Journey itself, with time on board, time in destination, and the comfort of knowing everything is already taken care of.

If this sounds like the kind of winter escape you’d actually enjoy, let’s reserve your suite before 23 June so you can benefit from up to 30% savings and a reduced 10% deposit.

08/27/2026

A softer corner of Patagonia awaits in Chile's Lake District, where volcano views, glacial lakes, and peaceful fjords replace the rush to the summit. Discover why slow adventure shines here, then reach out to start planning your escape. 🌋🏞️

📷: Laura Macías Acuña

Puerto Varas, Lake Llanquihue, Reloncaví fjord, and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park reward travelers willing to trade summit fever for a slower pace.

08/27/2026

🌸 Where history and beauty bloom together. 🇯🇵
Exploring Asia with Celebrity Cruises brings you to unforgettable destinations like Osaka, where iconic landmarks such as Osaka Castle stand surrounded by vibrant cherry blossoms and centuries of culture. From breathtaking scenery to rich traditions, every day offers something new to discover.
✉️ Contact me today to book your Asia cruise.
👇 If you could visit Japan tomorrow, what would be at the top of your list, cherry blossoms, historic sites, or the food?