Wanders By Melissa
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Here you’ll find up-to-date travel tips, travel news, rants and ramblings about travel and more!
Why I Chose a Small Group Tour for Italy (And Why You Might Want To, Too)
Discover the benefits of small group tours in Tuscany, Italy—including curated experiences, local food, and stress-free travel—perfect for travelers who want more than just the highlights.
Sandals Jamaica Update – And It’s Really Good News
If you’ve been hesitant to return to Jamaica after last year’s storms, this update changes everything. With major upgrades underway and several resorts already open, Sandals is setting the stage for an even better experience ahead.
Disney’s New Tropical Americas land Is One Step Closer to Becoming Reality
Change is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As of February 2, 2026, DINOSAUR has closed permanently, making way for a brand-new Encanto attraction and the upcoming Tropical Americas land. Here’s everything Disney fans need to know about what’s ahead.
Ocean Cay’s 2027 Announcement: Progress or a Step Away from Its Marine Preserve Promise?
MSC is transforming Ocean Cay by 2027. More food, more zones, more structure—but does it enhance or change the island experience?
Scenic Rail Spotlight: Wilderness Express — Experiencing Alaska Beyond the Coast
Looking for a different way to experience Alaska? Learn why a northbound Alaska cruise paired with the Wilderness Express rail journey through Denali and Alaska’s interior is my favorite way to explore the Last Frontier.
2026 Travel Trend Spotlight: Slow, Scenic, Meaningful Travel
Scenic rail travel is one of the biggest travel trends for 2026. From Canyon Spirit’s Rockies to Red Rocks journey to Alaska’s Wilderness Express and the iconic Rocky Mountaineer, discover why luxury rail is redefining slow, meaningful travel.
Royal Caribbean Group Unveils Points Choice — A Game-Changer in Cruise Loyalty
Royal Caribbean Group is changing the cruise loyalty game with its new Points Choice program, allowing guests to earn and apply loyalty points across Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. Learn how this impacts your cruise rewards — and why strategy matters more than ever.
Avalon Waterways Is Expanding Christmas Market Cruises — and I Could Not Be More Excited
Avalon Waterways is expanding its magical Christmas Market river cruises, adding more festive sailings and increased capacity for 2026. With group space now available for the 2027 Rhine River Christmas Markets, this is the perfect time to start planning a storybook holiday filled with twinkling lights, mulled wine, and timeless European traditions.
Big Changes Are Here: Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils Major Enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay
Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled major new enhancements at Great Stirrup Cay, including a brand-new pier, a massive 1.4-acre pool, family splash areas, and an adults-only beach club. Here’s what cruisers can expect now—and what’s coming next.