My experience on Holland America’s new Great Bear Rainforest cruise

“Is this really necessary?” I asked the tour guide as he handed me an insulated full-body suit. We — that is, me and about a dozen of my fellow cruise ship passengers, most of them around retirement age — were about to embark on a 90-minute scenic boat ride around the coast of British Columbia’s…

TPG exclusive: Score business class seats to Paris, Milan and Nice from $2400 round-trip

La Compagnie has made a name for itself as the world’s only all-business-class airline. It has also become known for its annual “Blue Friday” sale, when it offers discounted fares during the busy Black Friday shopping weekend. Taking its cue from the carrier’s distinctive baby blue aircraft livery, the sale returns for another year, but…

First look: Zemi Miches All-Inclusive Resort, Hilton Curio Collection

The new Zemi Miches Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton, is among the Dominican Republic’s latest all-inclusive hotel openings, and it’s Hilton’s first Curio Collection all-inclusive resort on the island. The Playa Esmeralda area surrounding the northeastern Dominican town of Miches is quickly becoming a hot spot of new resort openings — including…

Things to do in Icy Strait Point and Hoonah, Alaska, on a cruise

Icy Strait Point will be your favorite cruise port in Alaska — or your least favorite. You might love the densely forested setting of Chichagof Island, which has the world’s highest bear population per square mile and is surrounded by waters teeming with wildlife — an ideal destination for touring. Within Icy Strait Point, you…

The top 10 easiest credit card welcome offers to earn

When considering which rewards credit card deserves your next application, its welcome offer should be a top factor. Many bonuses are worth hundreds of dollars (or even more than $1,000) in the form of cash back or travel rewards. However, these offers sometimes carry steep spending requirements, requiring you to spend anywhere from $4,000 to…

Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: Which is the better scenic cruising spot in Alaska?

Cruising in Alaska means you want to see all the things. The list includes whales, sled dogs and bald eagles. You want stunning scenery and informative tours. Topping most people’s list is glacier viewing. It’s an intrinsic part of what we hope to see on a cruise in Alaska waters — perhaps even the main…