Culture Traveler

07/30/2025

Hi it’s Suzanne here with a Paris insider tip!

Paris 2024 Balloon Cauldron Returns This Summer

If you’re heading to Paris this summer, keep your eyes on the skies. The iconic Vasque de Paris 2024 hot-air balloon is back, floating above the city from June 21 to September 14, 2025.

Launching daily from the Jardin des Tuileries, the balloon will be on display for all visitors 10 AM to 9 PM. Evenings are the magic hour:

July: 10:30 PM
August: 9:30 PM
September: 8:30 PM
This spectacular tribute to the Montgolfier brothers’ invention will set Paris aglow all summer long. Just note—flights depend on the weather, so a little patience may be needed.

And if you’re lucky enough to be staying at the newly crowned Best Hotel in the City of Paris — the Fauchon Hotel — you’ll be perfectly placed to soak it all in, with world-class style to return to after the show.

Culture Traveler – Curating the world’s most unforgettable journeys

07/24/2025

Hi. It’s Suzanne here delighting in the award of best city hotel in Paris of one of my personal favorites. The Fauchon Hotel.

Move Over Crillon, Ritz, Bulgari, and Cheval Blanc…
Just this month, Travel + Leisure named FAUCHON L’HÔTEL PARIS the Best City Hotel in Paris — an honor that placed it ahead of iconic names like the Crillon, the Ritz, the Bulgari, and even the ultra-exclusive Cheval Blanc.
This is an updated post from last March because I’ve just returned once again to the only place I stay in Paris. I’ve been coming here since early 2020 — just before the world turned upside down — and I’ve never looked back. Fauchon is my go-to, my sanctuary, and the place I send all of my clients who want a luxury experience that feels both personal and a little unexpected.
I even returned this past December, when Paris was lit up for the holidays and Fauchon was positively glowing. The hotel was dressed to the nines, the windows sparkled with pink and gold, and the scent of holiday pastries and perfume wafted through the halls. It felt like stepping inside a storybook — only with better lighting and champagne.
Located beside Place de la Madeleine and just a few blocks from Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Fauchon manages to combine polish with personality. You don’t stand at a check-in desk. You’re welcomed into the library, where a glass of champagne and a few macarons from their patisserie are quietly offered alongside a perfect coffee. It’s graceful, it’s grown-up, and it feels like coming home.
After a long journey from Barbados and a weather delay that cost me an entire day, I arrived to find my luggage already in the room and my favorite snacks waiting. I headed straight to the spa for their signature “Desired Massage,” which dissolved more tension than I even knew I was carrying.
The next morning, I sat down with Marion from the concierge desk over coffee. She helped me rework my week in Paris to make up for lost time. By the time I got back to my suite, she’d printed my full itinerary, tucked it into Fauchon’s signature pink envelope, and included every ticket and detail. Elegant. Efficient. Effortless.
Here’s my new Paris plan:
Friday, March 8
* 5:00 PM: Hair appointment for color and cut at 25 Rue Royale
Saturday, March 9
* 9:30 AM: Musée Picasso (25€)
* 12:00 PM: Lunch at La Piazza
* 3:00 PM: Centre Pompidou for the Corps à Corps photography exhibition (25€)
Sunday, March 10
* Cedric Grolet Opéra — with a pre-order to skip the line
* Possibly the LV Dream exhibition by Louis Vuitton — Marion’s holding a spot in case I say yes
Monday, March 11
* 4:00 PM: Biologique Recherche facial on the Champs-Élysées
* Galerie Dior (40€) — open ticket, just need to go before Tuesday
Tuesday, March 12
* 10:00 AM: Fragonard perfume workshop to create my own scent (45 minutes, 39€)
* A stop at Maison Louvard for something sweet and simple
Everything has been thought through and beautifully executed — printed, personalized, and delivered in pink. Right now I’m back in the library, enjoying a vodka martini and soaking up the quiet Parisian evening.
Tomorrow, I’ll head out into the city. But tonight, I’m exactly where I want to be.
À demain, from the hotel Travel + Leisure just named the best in Paris.

06/29/2025

Its Suzanne here with some cruise news!

The Norwegian Fjords Are Changing: What You Need to Know Before You Cruise
Starting in 2026, Norway will require all cruise ships under 10,000 gross tons to be fully emission-free in the country’s most iconic and environmentally sensitive fjords. Larger ships must meet the same standard by 2032.
This includes world-renowned areas like Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Non-compliant ships will be denied entry, and Norway is exploring ways to limit both ship traffic and total visitor numbers to preserve these natural treasures.
Why the urgency? Because as majestic as these fjords are, they’re also incredibly fragile. In recent years, cruise ship emissions have contributed to poor air quality in port towns, left soot on glacial ice, and introduced underwater noise that affects local wildlife. During peak season, these fjords are among the most polluted locations in the country.
The new regulations are bold and necessary—and several cruise lines are already making moves to meet or exceed these environmental goals.
Here’s who’s leading the way:
* Havila Voyages operates hybrid ships powered by LNG and large batteries, allowing for silent, emission-free cruising through the fjords.
* Hurtigruten is developing the world’s first fully zero-emission cruise ship, slated for launch in 2030.
* Explora Journeys is building new vessels equipped with hydrogen fuel cells and LNG propulsion, launching in 2027 and 2028.
* Boutique lines like Windstar, Atlas Ocean Voyages, and Variety Cruises sail smaller ships that fall below the 10,000 GT threshold and are already aligned with future regulations or undergoing updates.
These upcoming rules mean that itineraries will shift. Some fjords will no longer be accessible to certain ships, while those that meet the requirements may be granted exclusive access.
If the fjords have been on your mind, and you're someone who wants to explore these landscapes in a way that honors their beauty and preserves them for the next generation, I’ve been keeping track of which ships will qualify and how routes are changing.
You can always find me at www.culturetraveler.com if you’d like to learn more or start thinking ahead.
The future of cruising is evolving. And in this case, it’s a change worth getting behind.

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06/24/2025

Travel Advisory: Middle East Unrest and Cruise Impacts
Issued by Culture Traveler

We are closely monitoring developments in the Middle East as the region experiences ongoing political unrest and evolving airspace restrictions.

Areas Most Affected:
Israel, particularly Tel Aviv and the surrounding areas
Portions of Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and the Red Sea corridor
Select Egyptian and Jordanian ports may see heightened security or itinerary adjustments
Flight Status:
Ben Gurion Airport (Israel) is gradually reopening. Limited commercial flights have resumed with full operations expected to scale by late June.
Regional airspace in Qatar, the UAE, Bahrain, and Jordan has reopened. Several international airlines, including El Al, Air India, and others, have resumed flights into the region.
Iraq, Iran, and Syrian airspace remain restricted.

Cruise Impact:
Cruise lines are actively monitoring itineraries and have rerouted or modified port calls in high-risk areas including Haifa, Ashdod, and parts of the Red Sea.
If your cruise includes Israel, Jordan, or Egypt, expect possible itinerary changes or port substitutions.
Red Sea itineraries continue to operate, with enhanced safety protocols in place.

What You Should Do:
If you are scheduled to travel through or near the region in the coming weeks, please review your itinerary and check for updates.
Airlines and cruise lines are adjusting routes daily for safety. We recommend staying flexible and reaching out with any concerns.

We are in ongoing contact with our partners and will keep you informed of changes affecting your travel plans.

Your peace of mind is our priority. If you'd like to review alternative options or confirm the latest on your upcoming trip, please reach out.

— Culture Traveler

06/24/2025

Cruising with a Disability: What No One Tells You
By Suzanne Moore, Cruise Specialist – Culture Traveler
When most people picture a cruise, they imagine sunshine, cocktails, and carefree days at sea. But for those of us living with a disability or managing a chronic condition, cruising often requires a different kind of preparation. And it begins well before the packing list.
I have MS. I travel with two canes when needed. And I cruise regularly—more than 70 days a year. Over time, I’ve learned that while luxury cruise lines are increasingly mindful of accessibility, the reality is rarely one-size-fits-all.
This isn’t a complaint. It’s a guide. A way to share what I’ve experienced so that someone else might cruise with a little more ease and a little less uncertainty.

What I’ve Learned (That Brochures Don’t Always Say)
1. Accessibility Looks Different on Every Ship
Not all accessible suites are created equally. Some are thoughtfully designed, with wide doorways, roll-in showers, and practical grab bars. Others feel like afterthoughts. Furniture placement can make movement tricky, and thresholds or ledges in bathrooms can become real barriers.
The encouraging news is that many newer luxury ships have expanded their public accessibility features. It’s now more common to find well-placed accessible restrooms near lounges, theaters, dining venues, and pool areas. These small details have a big impact on the freedom to enjoy your day without needing to return to your cabin.
Still, it’s important to confirm the specifics before you book. Brochures don’t always reflect lived experience.

2. Ask the Right Questions Before You Book
I often tell clients that a good cruise starts with good questions. Even on high-end ships, the actual accessibility can vary from vessel to vessel.
Here are a few things worth asking:
* Are wheelchairs or assistance available for embarkation and disembarkation?
* Are accessible bathrooms located throughout the ship—not just in your suite?
* Do cabin doorways have thresholds or are they flush?
* Are public doors automatic, especially in spa and pool areas?
* Are elevators large enough for a scooter or rollator?
* What is the process for tender ports?
* Are the motorcoaches used for excursions lift-equipped?
These are the kinds of questions I routinely ask on behalf of my clients, because they’re rarely answered in the marketing materials. Knowing what to ask can make all the difference.

3. Shore Excursions Can Be Misleading
Excursions are often where things get tricky. Descriptions can be vague or overly optimistic. I’ve signed up for “easy walking tours” that turned into uphill treks over uneven cobblestones. And once you're ashore, there's not always an easy way back if something becomes too difficult.
Even excursions marked as accessible can include unexpected obstacles:
* A long walk from the ship to the bus
* A few stairs into a museum or restaurant
* Narrow restrooms with tight door frames
* Extended periods of standing without shade
When I board, I always visit the Destination Services desk and sit down with a staff member to go over each excursion. It’s a good time to ask:
* How far is the walk from ship to vehicle?
* Are there ramps or steps to enter the venue?
* Is there shade or seating along the way?
* What is the walking surface like?
* Are restrooms nearby?
* Are there alternate options if something feels too strenuous?
Some luxury lines can even assist with private vehicles or small-group alternatives, especially when asked early. But those adjustments begin with the right questions.

4. Crew Culture Varies, Even Within the Same Brand
The onboard experience often hinges on how well the staff understands accessibility. On some sailings, the crew has quietly rearranged my suite to make it easier to navigate. On others, I’ve waited far too long for promised assistance that never arrived.
Every ship has its own rhythm and leadership. One itinerary might feel seamless. Another may leave you feeling overlooked. Understanding that variability is part of what I help travelers prepare for. Accessibility isn't just about the ship—it’s also about the service culture on board.

A Final Word
Cruising can be a beautiful way to explore the world. You settle in once, and the destinations come to you. But for those of us with physical limitations or chronic conditions, thoughtful planning is what makes it truly accessible.
There are wonderful ships out there doing this well. And there are ways to make nearly any itinerary more manageable—if you know what to look for.
If this resonates, and you’re thinking about your next journey, I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned.
Culture Traveler�Dedicated to travel that fits who you are and how you move through the world.

06/21/2025

06/13/2025

Ease, comfort and luxury will even further elevate your awe-inspiring experience of this Natural Wonder of the World…

06/11/2025

Kareem George here, sharing highlights of our second day at Machu Picchu. This morning we began Circuit 3 - “Machu Picchu Royalty” - in time to see a majestic sunrise between the eastern mountains. It is amazing how the quality of light and time of day dramatically changes the scenary.
This route is focused on exploring the royal households and artisan sections of the site. I found the overall engineering to be fascinating: room proportions, privacy, lighting, shelter from the elements, drainage, etc. We also visited the beautiful Temple of the Condor.

06/10/2025

Should you desire the most ideal location, cozy accommodation and warm, friendly service, Sanctuary Lodge, A Belmond Hotel, is where to stay when visiting Machu Picchu. The entrance to this iconic natural wonder of the world is literally across the street from the hotel! Whether you are hiking all day or exploring the site for several hours, this convenience is a true luxury. There is also a lovely restaurant onsite as well as a fantastic high-quality gift shop!

06/09/2025

Kareem George here, in awe after completing Walking Circuit 2 – the Classic Circuit – at Machu Picchu. What an incredible experience: breathtaking panoramic views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.
Visiting this historic sanctuary has long been on my bucket list. Having marveled at pictures for years the site truly came to life walking through the upper section and gazing down on the Citadel, Temple of the Sun and the Sacred Plaza.
Our weather could not be more perfect and I hope you enjoy these photos. If Machu Picchu may also be on your wish list, may these images be your sign to make the journey!