Avants-Garde Travel

Visit timeless Christmas Markets on board an AmaWaterways' Romantic Danube - A Taste of Christmas itinerary! From grand abbeys and fortresses, celebrate the holidays ahead of the crowds. Let's talk.

AmaWaterways Choose Your Journey >>>MORE

If this is not your ideal way of ‘seeing’ Cape Town there are many other unforgettable experiences for you to consider. Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, enjoy a safari adventure at Aquila Game Reserve, and indulge in the city's vibrant culture, delicious cuisines, and stunning landscapes. Cape Town has something for everyone’s memory book.

You may not have considered Iceland as a vacation spot, but think again! It’s full of experiences, from glacier lagoons and volcano treks to geothermal baths, living museums, and ice caves. Discover the country's rich history, culture, and natural wonders through activities like whale watching, horse riding, and exploring black sand beaches, canyons, and unique rock formations. If you think this might be for you, DM me.

Fall for Marseille’s charm! Here's how to spend a port call exploring, savoring the local cuisine, and shopping in France's most Mediterranean city.

https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/michavan17308/travel/articles/how-to-spend-a-port-call-in-marseille

Image: Anthony Lanneretonne

As the largest city in Spain's Basque Country, Bilbao is renowned for its cuisine, distinct language, and cutting-edge architecture and contemporary art collection within the glass-and-titanium Guggenheim Museum. If you plan to visit Spain, I recommend you include it on your itinerary. What do you think? Worth an exploratory conversation?

The magnificent Grand Canyon, where awe-inspiring vistas, vivid colors, and ancient geology form an unforgettable tapestry of natural beauty, never disappoints. What’s your favorite National Park that you’ve been to, or want to visit?

If you are on LinkedIn I would love to connect with you on that platform.

Follow me on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/comm/mynetwork/discovery-see-all?usecase=PEOPLE_FOLLOWS&followMember=michael-avants-409137299

Ixtapa is a great place to get up close and personal with the locals.

Swan Hellenic ships and itineraries combine their passion for exploration with the opportunity to tap into the worlds of well-being, stylish entertainment, science, and extraordinary cuisine. Let's find a cruise that works for you. They specialize in expedition cruises in the Antarctic, Africa, and the Arctic.

Swan Hellenic Go Beyond >>>MORE

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, there's a cruise that fits your travel style. No matter which you choose, each offers a luxurious way to explore the world. Ready to set sail? Let’s craft your perfect cruise experience.

Turks & Caicos and its world-renowned soft white sand beaches. Look like a plan or is there another beach that's calling you?

Fiji's Taveuni Island, the third largest island in Fiji, and the Wainibau Waterfall. Another side of this beautiful area.

Sail to Mexico, Honduras, and the Bahamas — all in under a week, and all on Virgin Voyages’ gorgeous Scarlet Lady. Named one of the best cruise ships in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, Scarlet is poised and ready to take you on a tour of Western Caribbean Charm. With stops in Roatán, Costa Maya, and Virgin’s exclusive Beach Club at Bimini, it’s a 6-night vacation you won’t forget.

Virgin Voyages Extended — 70% off a 2nd Sailor plus free balcony upgrades on most sailings in 2025 and 2026! >>>MORE

The enchanting town of Kinsale is nestled along Ireland's stunning southern coast, with its vibrant colors and picturesque landscapes. Wander the narrow streets, indulge in fresh seafood, and revel in the beauty of a lovely day in Kinsale, where memories will be made.

Unwind in style at The Setai, Miami Beach. Savor a cocktail on a private beach with the soundtrack of soothing waves. Discover the top five reasons you'll love this hotel.

https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/michavan17308/travel/articles/five-things-we-love-the-setai-miami-beach

From Nuremberg to Luxembourg, enchanting majestic castles, charming towns, and delicious wines await you on AmWaterways' Europe's Rivers & Castles river cruise. Contact me today!

AmaWaterways Choose Your Journey >>>MORE

You can easily find the incredible tree-climbing goats of Morocco between Marrakech and Essaouira, along the roadside. Just keep in mind that you'll probably have to pay a farmer to take pictures and enjoy the novelty (and it's worth it).

Time for a travel adventure? How about visiting the mesmerizing beauty of Laguna Colorada, a salt lake nestled in Bolivia's beautiful Altiplano. Vivid red hues formed by red sediments and algae, where you'll spot these elegant Andean flamingos, all surrounded by the gorgeous Andean Mountain Range. Insta-ready!

These laid-back Tico experiences are perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace over high-energy adventures in Costa Rica.

https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/michavan17308/travel/articles/a-slow-travelers-guide-to-thrill-seeking-in-costa-rica

Need to escape? How about pretty Sakarun Bay on Croatia's Dugi Otok Island, a hidden gem with white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This secluded paradise offers a tranquil retreat for families and adventurers to enjoy the stunning Adriatic coastline. Or did you have somewhere else in mind?

Awe-inspiring! Experience the beauty of Red Lotus Sea, a hidden treasure tucked away in Udon Thani, Thailand. This breathtaking transformation sees thousands of vibrant red lotus flowers bloom between December and February. This will create an unforgettable memory. Just avoid weekends and holidays… it's too busy.

You asked, and Virgin Voyages listened — they extended 70% off a 2nd Sailor on all sailings for a limited time so you can extend the vibes of summer for the rest of the year.
Plus, book the Limited View Sea Terrace for the price of The Sea View on most voyages in 2025 and 2026 — because hammock views (and savings) are a big deal. Especially when this upgrade scores you up to $325 in extra savings — on top of over $1,000 of Always Included Luxuries and flexible booking policies that never cost extra. It’s (always) the luxury you deserve and no nickel and diming... ever.

Virgin Voyages Extended — 70% off a 2nd Sailor plus free balcony upgrades on most sailings in 2025 and 2026! >>>MORE

Nature and architecture meld beautifully at Praia das Catedrais on Spain’s Galicia coast. The awe-inspiring natural rock formations are reminiscent of Gothic cathedral arches. Interested in feeling the Atlantic breeze on your face and enjoying the beauty of this captivating beach paradise? # PraiadasCatedrais

Home to more than a third of Greenlanders, the capital of Nuuk has a thriving arts scene. Also known by its Danish name of Godthåb (Good Hope), Nuuk has a busy old Colonial Harbour with Nuuk Cathedral, colorful wooden houses, and avant-garde architecture. Swan Hellenic's Canadian Arctic and Northern Lights cruise itinerary is the gateway to Inuit experiences and natural adventures on the fjords among the icy seas and spectacular mountains. Want me to get you more information?

Swan Hellenic Go Beyond >>>MORE

Vistas of Prague and its many, many bridges (18 to be exact) never grow old.

Experience the epitome of luxury at Adaaran Prestige Water Villas, an all-inclusive exclusive retreat nestled in the breathtaking Maldives archipelago. Private sun decks, glass portals for marine life viewing, personalized butler service, crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant sea life, and gourmet dining. What else can I tell you?

Farm-to-table dining is blooming in Kyoto. Learn how Kentaro Suzuki supplies the city’s fine dining restaurants with fresh ingredients.

https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/michavan17308/travel/articles/peek-inside-kyotos-blooming-farm-to-table-scene

Image: Andrew Faulk

New rule would eliminate fees for families flying together. Mandating fee-free family seating would lower the cost of flying with young children -- saving a family of four as much as $200 per roundtrip if seat fees are $25.

https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/biden-harris-administration-proposes-ban-family-seating-junk-fees-charged-airlines

Read my LinkedIn article on the benefits of taking time off!

The Professional’s Guide to Recharging Through Experiencing the Art of Travel: Time Off is Essential for Success

www.linkedin.com