Cruise International April/May 2020

One of my friends met the love of her life on her honeymoon. Her first fiancé got cold feet, so she went on the ‘honeymoon’ cruise by herself… and met the man who is now her husband. Isn’t that romantic? On page 68, you can find out what happened when Deborah Stone and her husband, Nick Dalton, decided to renew their vows at sea… joining 1,443 couples to break a Guinness World Record. Now that’s dedication (sorry). The idea of escaping to a private island sounds extremely tempting right now – on page 62 you can see the top fantasy retreats to explore on a cruise. And if you’re thinking of sailing solo, turn to page 74 for our expert tips to help you experience the holiday of a lifetime. As someone…

The celebrated city of Málaga, birthplace of Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas, is steeped in history — both ancient and modern. It is peppered with warm-hued and often-colossal architecture, including its 16th-century cathedral known as ‘La Manquita’ or ‘One-Armed Lady’; due to a lack of funds only one of the two planned towers was completed. The sun-kissed Andalusian city is also home to excellent art museums. Once the principal port of the Moorish kingdom of Granada, the hilltop 11th-century citadel the Alcazaba is a must-visit. You can also explore the ancient Alhambra Palace on an excursion. From there, you can take in the awe-inspiring views from the pink-gold Arabian-style building, with its stunning Sierra Nevada snow-capped mountain backdrop. Other sightseeing attractions include the caves in Nerja, an elegant old town…

Although the name of this small harbourside town means ‘Bay of Whales’ in Afrikaans, it’s actually better known for the lagoon where enormous flocks of flamingos frequently gather. Seeing the fuchsia forest created by these flamboyant birds is an unforgettable sight, but there’s plenty of other wildlife around, too. Thousands of migratory birds also convene on the lagoon, pelicans can be spotted on kayaking tours from Walvis Bay to the aptly named Pelican Point, and boat trips offer the opportunity to see seals and dolphins. You may even spot a whale if you’re lucky. Other activities while in town include visiting Dune 7 — the highest sand dune in the area offering wonderful views — and the ghost town of Kolmanskop, with its Germanic architecture, is along the coast at…

CRUISING WITH CONFIDENCE For anyone unsure about booking a cruise holiday in the current climate, the cruise industry is taking measures to ensure that consumers feel as confident as possible. In a statement, Andy Harmer, Senior VP Membership and Director for the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland, said: “The cruise industry is one of the most well-equipped and experienced in providing for the care and safety of guests and crew, which is our number one priority at all times. “CLIA cruise line members are required to put in place very strict protocols in the interest of the health and safety of their travellers and crew. Prior to boarding, CLIA cruise lines must take precautions to conduct screenings of passengers and crew for illness. “Our members work around the clock to help ensure…

DEALS ON THE DANUBE Avalon Waterways has introduced savings of up to £2,500 per couple on a range of sailings along the Danube. “Avalon Waterways has created a remarkable range of river cruises that take our guests beyond the Danube’s beautiful views to offer personalised experiences and untethered exploration”, said Giles Hawke, CEO of Avalon Waterways UK. “We provide holidaymakers with a choice of nearly 30 river cruise itineraries, ranging from four to 27 days, that feature a host of excursion options along the Danube River,” he added. The cruise line has also created ‘Short and Suite’ getaways that range from four to six days. Prices start from £706 per person and the package is designed to provide time-starved travellers and first-time river cruisers the chance to test river cruise waters (avalonwaterways.co.uk). RHINE ADVENTURES Scenic Luxury…

Get set glow Want skin that glows like Game of Thrones’ star (and Clinique ambassador) Emilia Clarke? Dramatically Different™ Moisturising BB-gel combines eight hours of hydration with a sheer wash of colour to perfect skin tone, while concentrated actives help energise and revive dull-looking skin. Available from airport counters worldwide. LUXE LASHES Transform your lashes with Estée Lauder’s Sumptuous Extreme Mascara Duo. The super sleek brush gives lashes a double dose — lengthening and lifting. From select airports. Animal magic Animal prints show no sign of abating and we are loving these fabulous Clapham Leopard loafers (£90) from cocoroselondon.com — so easy to pack; this cute zebra matinee purse (£6.99, bhf.org.uk); and this smart belt Oliver Bonas belt with bamboo-style buckle (£32). The perfect accessories for your safari cruise (see feature, p84). CLOSE ENCOUNTERS Swarovski’s clever dG…