Cruise International February/March 2019

Welcome to a very special issue of Cruise International. It’s our 10th anniversary, and I’m very proud to say that I’ve been the magazine’s Editor for the past seven years. On page 74 some of our favourite cruise line executives tell us how the past decade has changed for them and what the future holds. And if you’re completely new to cruise, on page 65, Contributing Editor Julie Peasgood reveals expert tips and insider tricks to make sure you have your best holiday ever. One of my favourite cruising destinations has to be Asia, and on page 47 you’ll find the most incredible itineraries for the year ahead, from Beijing to the Mekong. You’ll find spectacular new ship reviews on page 25, and delectable cake recipes from celebrity chef Eric Lanlard…

With its tall green bamboo trees and ethereal light, Sagano is one of the most iconic natural attractions in the world. Located on the outskirts of Kyoto in the Arashiyama district, the sound of the swaying stalks has been designated as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan”: the idea is that you listen to nature’s own meditative music such as leaves rustling while you explore (more of a challenge when it’s busy). The area has attracted visitors since the 8th century, and is also renowned for the iconic Togetsu-kyo (Moon Crossing) Bridge, which is more than 400 years old and crosses the Katsura River in front of the Arashiyama Mountain, or Storm Mountain. The best time to visit is spring, for the cherry blossom, or November for the glorious…

Viking advises early booking Award-winning cruise line Viking has launched its itineraries for 2020 and 2021 with advice to book early. Wendy Atkin-Smith, Managing Director at Viking UK, said: “The booking lead time for cruises is much earlier than other types of travel, so book early to ensure you receive the best possible value.” The benefits may include a booking discount, a choice of stateroom and the opportunity to travel on your chosen date. As well as the new ocean itineraries for 2020 and 2021, including the Caribbean & Mediterranean Odyssey and the South Pacific & the Land Down Under , there is a new 2020-2021 Viking World Cruise . Visiting six continents and 75 ports, with overnight stays in 13 cities, sailing on 14 December 2020 from Miami, there will be six new…

IN THE TROPICS A tropical-patterned scarf will add a splash of colour to any outfit (£25,whitestuff.com). BRIGHT EYES One of our favourite beauty products this season has to be Benefit’s Roller Eye Bright Highlighter pencil. The creamy waterproof pencil glides onto the waterline for a wide-awake look, instantly brightening eyes (£16.50, benefitcosmetics.com). PUMP IT UP These bold and brightly printed trainers from Guess will give you all the right moves (£85, guess.com). COOL SHADES For a touch of insta-glam, try these Infininity Collection rimless sunglasses in bronze; they give guaranteed UV400 protection, too (£250, pretavoir.co.uk). MAKE A SPLASH We ve fallen in love with this exquisite Akira zebra-print one-piece swimsuit from luxury resort wear brand Lazul (£220, Selfridges.com). SKIN BOOST Vegan-friendly products are a masive beauty trend right now, and Elemis has extended its Superfood range with four new skincare enhancers.…

NOISES OFF With NoiseGard hybrid active noise cancellation to eliminate unwanted ambient sound and ergonomically designed ear cups, Momentum Wireless headphones by Sennheiser are ideal for long flights (£299.99, argos.co.uk). WORLD CLASS The C1 Grand Malvern Worldtimer features an intricate world map dial with the ability to monitor 24 time zones at once – the perfect choice for frequent travellers. It offers a 40-hour power reserve, so it’s perfect for long flights and off-road adventures too (£995, christopherward.co.uk) FLOWER POWER With its pretty spring blossom print, the Ted Baker Harmony vanity case is ultra-lightweight but has room for all your essentials (£140, caseluggage.com). TAKE FLIGHT Made from super durable modern aluminium, the Air Brigitte 19-degree international carry-on boasts beautifully contoured angles and sky blue detailing (£855, tumi.com). WILD THING Who could resist this leather tassel dangler featuring a zebra…

STANDOUT SPA One of the many standout features of Holland America Line’s new ship, Nieuw Statendam (see review, page 32), has to be the Greenhouse Spa & Salon. With the mantra “beauty blooms”, it features a stunning thermal suite, including a large hydrotherapy pool filled with heated mineral water. The spa menu offers treatments including Elemis facials and massages, acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Guests keen to focus on health and wellness during their cruise can also book suites and staterooms conveniently located near the spa, and all come with yoga mats for the use during the voyage (hollandamerica.com). STAY HEALTHY at sea No one likes to think about norovirus when you go on a cruise, but there are things you can do to protect yourself. The most simple and effective aid is to…