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The Travel Collective Articles
This is where you will discover expert travel advice, destination guides, industry insights, and inspiring stories. From insider tips to travel trends, I've got you covered.
Seasonal Warmth
There’s a quieter kind of magic to be found on the rivers in winter — glowing Christmas markets, candlelit towns, and the joy of slow, meaningful travel. In this month’s main article, I invite you to discover why a river cruise might just be the cosiest festive escape of all.  Why Winter River Cruises Might Just Be the Cosy Escape You Didn’t Know You Needed There’s something quietly magical about the rivers in winter. As the rest of the world begins to bustle — shopping, rus
Wendy Byard
Nov 184 min read
Ambassador Cruise Lines
Traditional Cruising with a Warm-Hearted Twist  If you’re dreaming of a sailing with classic charm, great value, and a welcoming atmosphere — look no further than Ambassador Cruise Line.  As Britain’s first new cruise line in over a decade, Ambassador has quickly earned a loyal following, especially among solo travellers and midlife adventurers looking for something that feels… just right. With adult-only sailings and a strong focus on no-fly cruises from UK ports like Tilb
Wendy Byard
Nov 182 min read
A look Ahead
Looking Ahead: Cruise Dreams for 2026, 2027 & Beyond From Colombia’s untamed rivers to the temples of Japan and the timeless beauty of Egypt — the cruise world is unveiling some breathtaking new journeys. Come take a peek at what’s on the horizon… it might just inspire your next big adventure Looking Ahead: A Glimpse into 2026–2027 and 2028! While many of us are still choosing trips for 2026, the cruise world is already casting its gaze ahead, and what’s coming is nothing sho
Wendy Byard
Nov 182 min read
South Polynesia: Where Time Slows and the Soul Sighs
There are places in the world that don’t just tempt you with beauty — they call to something deeper. South Polynesia is one of those places. A string of islands scattered across a sapphire sea, where the air is heavy with frangipani, the sunsets drip gold into the ocean, and life slows down until it feels like a lullaby.
Wendy Byard
Oct 213 min read
Deep Journeys, Rich Stories
Why longer cruises are winning hearts, and what they might teach you too
Wendy Byard
Oct 213 min read
Oceania Cruises: Refined Luxury for Curious Travellers
If you’re the kind of traveller who values authenticity, flavour, and thoughtful detail… Oceania Cruises may be exactly what you’ve been searching for.
Wendy Byard
Oct 214 min read
What’s Hot in Cruising Destinations for 2026, 2027 & Beyond
Early releases, trending destinations, and a few surprises worth dreaming about… One of the best things about cruising is that you can...
Wendy Byard
Sep 172 min read
Cruise Dress Codes: Glamorous Gowns or Casual Comfort?
Dress to impress… or not? Whether you adore dressing up or dread the thought of packing a ballgown, cruise ship dress codes have become...
Wendy Byard
Sep 173 min read
Destination Focus: Majorca – Sun-Soaked Shores & Stylish Stops
A Mediterranean Favourite That’ll Leave You Wanting More There’s something about Majorca that stays with you. Maybe it’s the way the sea...
Wendy Byard
Jul 224 min read
Virgin Voyages
Bold. Beautiful. Unexpected When people think of Virgin Voyages, they often picture loud parties, tattoo parlours, and a sea of...
Wendy Byard
Jul 223 min read
Destination Focus: Spain & Casablanca – Colour, Culture & Caution
This journey takes us to some of the most vibrant and varied ports in the Western Mediterranean , combining the fiery passion of Spain...
Wendy Byard
Jun 243 min read
Reflections from the CLIA Conference
If you’re serious about cruising, there’s one event that should be on your radar—the CLIA Conference . CLIA (the Cruise Lines...
Wendy Byard
Jun 247 min read
Spotlight on MSC Cruises: Stylish Sailing for Every Type of Traveller
With their chic Italian style, impressive itineraries, and great solo deals, MSC is quickly becoming a favourite for cruisers of all types—especially solo travellers. In this month's blog, I'm taking a closer look at what life onboard is like, where you can sail, and why MSC might just be your perfect match.
Wendy Byard
May 263 min read
Excursions from Civitavecchia: How to Make the Most of Your Day in Port
Civitavecchia might not be the most glamorous name on your cruise itinerary, but don’t be too quick to dismiss it. This bustling port...
Wendy Byard
May 263 min read
P&O Iona in the Fjords – What I Learned
A solo cruise on P&O Iona through the Norwegian Fjords in April brought unexpected stillness, surprises, and lessons. Here’s what I learned along the way
Wendy Byard
May 124 min read
The Magical Danube
Imagine drifting gently along one of Europe's most enchanting rivers, where every bend reveals a picturesque town or a hidden gem waiting...
Wendy Byard
Mar 258 min read
AmaWaterways
A Journey Beyond the Rivers Since its creation in 2002, AmaWaterways has redefined river cruising by blending luxury and comfort with the...
Wendy Byard
Mar 253 min read
Discover the Freedom of River Cruises:
Your Ultimate Guide to Unforgettable Journeys Imagine gliding along the shimmering waters of a river, the world unfolding before you that...
Wendy Byard
Mar 259 min read
Norwegian Cruise Line: A Top Choice for Solo Travellers
Whether you're looking for a tropical getaway, a cultural deep dive, or an off-the-beaten-track expedition, there's an NCL cruise to suit.
Wendy Byard
Feb 243 min read
Cruising Solo for the First Time – A Guide to Your First Independent Adventure
If you've ever dreamed of setting sail on your own but hesitated because you weren't sure what to expect—this guide is for you.
Wendy Byard
Feb 245 min read
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