Starting January 8, 2025, Canadian and U.S. citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit or transit through the United Kingdom. This requirement affects short-term visits for tourism, business, family visits, study, and permitted paid engagement. Travelers visiting the European Union will need to apply through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which is expected to start in mid-2025.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know if you’re planning to visit the UK.

What is the ETA?
The ETA is a digital travel authorization system and acts as pre-clearance for travel. An ETA will allow you to stay in the UK for up to six months. If you plan to stay longer or wish to work or live there, you will need to apply for a visa instead of an ETA.

How to Apply
You can apply online for an ETA through the gov.uk website. The process costs £10 GBP (approximately $12.75 USD/$17.6 CA as of writing) and generally takes three business days for approval. To apply, you’ll need your passport, access to your emails, a payment method at hand like a credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay, and a device with a camera to take a picture of yourself and your passport. You will not need to enter your travel details while applying for an ETA.

How Long is the ETA Valid?
The ETA is electronically linked to your passport and remains valid for two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETA.

Who Needs an ETA?The ETA is mandatory for travelers of all ages from Canada and the U.S. It also applies to those transiting through UK airports. However, certain groups are exempt from this requirement, including dual citizens traveling on British or Irish passports, UK visa holders, and legal residents of the UK or Republic of Ireland. Starting April 2, 2025, citizens of European Union (EU) countries will also need an ETA to enter the UK.

What You Need To Do
If you’re planning to visit or have a transiting flight through the UK, you should apply for an ETA online. In case you need to travel immediately, you should apply online before you leave as you can travel to the UK while waiting for a decision, though we recommend applying for one as early as possible to avoid any hindrance. If you’re traveling to Europe in the second half of 2025 or later, you will need to apply through ETIAS. The process and requirements for the European ETIAS will be similar as the ETA for UK but keep an out for more details as they are revealed in the next few months.

If you’d like more information or have any questions regarding travel to the UK, please contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant for expert advice.

Gliding through turquoise waters, taking in breathtaking coastlines and sunkissed islands - just an average day as you navigate the Aegean and Adriatic seas. Join Celestyal from their home port in Athens and discover the best of Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Montenegro and Italy. Celestyal is the number one choice for travelers to this region, and you'll soon see why.

​You Just Have To Be There.

Celestyal is passionate about high value – whether it’s value for time, money or experience. So, they’ve made some changes to their fare packages to make things simpler, all while giving you enhanced inclusions, more choice, more flexibility, and out-of-this-world value.

With savings of up to 50%, plus on select sailings an additional €200pp of CelestyalPay, your bar and specialty dining tab, now's the perfect time to book.*

Heavenly Greece, Italy & Croatia

Find your slice of paradise on the Heavenly Greece, Italy & Croatia itinerary with Celestyal. You’ll sail to a host of the best port cities in the world and immerse yourself in once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll remember forever. Stroll through streets that served as the backdrop for famous TV shows and films, peruse world class museums that house ancient relics, and sample wines right at the vineyards where they were crafted. Enjoy dishes made with seafood caught fresh from the sea and produce straight from local farms. Dip your toes into the warm, turquoise waters of the ocean and lounge on the powdery shores while you enjoy a gelato or spritzer. Take a hike along peaks and valleys to catch panoramic views of the city, or opt for a cool sunset cruise in a cable car instead. As you sail, you will enjoy top-tier service, picture-perfect views, and an onboard experience as majestic as the cities you will stroll.

7 Nights onboard Celestyal Journey with fares from $769*

Ports
Athens • Kefalonia • Dubrovnik • Kotor • Bari • Corfu • Katakolo • Athens

Sailing Dates
2025: Apr 12, 19, 26 |
May 3, 10 | Oct 25 | Nov 8
2026: Apr 4, 18 | May 2 |Oct 17, 31

Idyllic Greece

Seeking the perfect getaway? Look no further. Celestyal’s Idyllic Greek Islands itinerary takes you on 7- or 14-day journey through the most beautiful and culturally rich cities of the Mediterranean region. They invite you to indulge in traditional flavors, admire stunning landscapes and delve deeper into charming villages. You also have a unique chance to take guided visits to the grand Palace of Knossos and the intriguing city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the Mediterranean, plus a host of other exclusive excursions that tell you the stories of the people of the past and present. As you sail, you will enjoy Celestyal’s world-class service, enjoy endless perfect sunrises, and spend more time in port, allowing you to dive deep into the many layers of these destinations. Make your next escape to the Greek Isles with Celestyal, and get to know the riches they have in store for you.

7 Nights onboard Celestyal Journey with fares from $769*

Ports
2025: Athens • Thessaloniki • Kusadasi • Crete  • Santorini • Mykonos • Milos • Athens
2026: Athens • Kusadasi • Rhodes • Crete
• Santorini • Mykonos • Milos • Athens

Sailing Dates
2025: Jun 7, 14, 21, 28 | Jul 5, 12, 19 | Aug 2, 16, 30 | Sep 6, 13, 20, 27 | Oct 4, 11, 18 | Nov 1, 15
2026: Apr 11, 25 | May 9, 16, 23, 30 | Jun 6, 13, 20, 27 |Jul 4, 11, 18, 25 | Aug 8, 22 | Sep 5, 12, 19, 26 | Oct 3, 10

Heavenly Venice, Greece & Croatia

Every day brings fresh adventures in this grand journey through the heart of the Mediterranean. From the mountainous beauty of Kotor and the eclectic appeal of Split, to the labyrinthine canals of Venice and legendary ruins of Athens, every port is a doorway to another world. Enjoy 4 countries in 7 days on this unmissable adventure. Ideal for the seeker of beauty, knowledge and unforgettable experiences.

7 Nights onboard Celestyal Journey with fares from $899*

Ports
Athens • Kotor • Split • Venice (Marghera) • Katakolo • Athens

Sailing Dates
2025: Jul 26 | Aug 9, 23
2026: Aug 1, 15, 29

What are you waiting for? Contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next getaway onboard Celestyal and take advantage of these spectacular offers!

*Term and conditions: *Celestyal One Fares are per-person, based on a double occupancy of the stateroom. Celestyal One Fares include accommodation on board in the booked category, on-board dining and complimentary select drinks and beverages during food service hours, entry level Wi-Fi package, all port fees and gratuities and entertainment program on board. Booking window is December 11th, 2024 to February 28th, 2025 for the selected cruises. Offer is valid for new, individual bookings. It is not valid for groups and cannot be held as group block. Reduced rate space is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn at any time with, or without notice. Celestyal Cruises reserves the right to add, change or modify reduced rate conditions at any time, without notification. ^For select sailings, a CelestyalPay credit of €50 per passenger on three- and four-night cruises and €100 per passenger on seven-night or longer cruises is offered free of charge as part of this promotional offer. The bonus credits typically provided for purchased CelestyalPay amounts will not apply to this free credit. The CelestyalPay credit is subject to the same terms and conditions as outlined for regular CelestyalPay purchases, including its exclusive use for onboard food and beverage purchases, a 10% service fee on all transactions, and non-transferability or refundability of unused balances at the end of the cruise. Additionally, this promotional CelestyalPay credit may not be transferred, redeemed for cash, or combined with other offers. Celestyal’s Deposit and Cancellation standard policies apply based on the booking/sailing date. Celestyal reserves the right to correct any incorrect information due to a human error, typographical error, or technical error. In the event of any discrepancies between the rates stated herein and the rates displayed in the Reservation System, the rates provided by the Reservation System shall prevail and be deemed as the correct and binding rates for all purpose. The general terms and conditions of Celestyal apply.

The UK-based Riviera River Cruises has initiated a rebranding in North America, adopting the name "Riviera Travel" to align with its established identity in Europe and the UK. The change marks the beginning of an expansion aimed at offering a broader range of travel services under the Riviera Travel brand across the USA, according to Marilyn Conroy, vice president of sales and marketing.

Conroy noted that the rebranding would extend Riviera’s offerings beyond river cruises, allowing customers to book air, transfers, and hotels, with plans to eventually include guided tours. She explained that the brand alignment across the U.K. and U.S. is logical as the company expands its North American presence.

Read more to see what offers they have available for you for to book with this expanding river cruise company...

Get 50% off 2026 River Cruises*

Hello 2026 river crusies on sale and hello to your 2026 vacation! You dont want to miss out on this one. Riviera are offering 50% off the brochure price on all 2026 sailings. That means you pay for 1 person and get the other person free! 

This offer is for a limited time only so you want to secure it while you can. 

Riviera's 2 Brand New Ships Set Sail

At Rivera Travel, they are dedicated to improving their five-star fleet of river cruise ships continually. This is why the ships are among the most advanced and youngest in Europe, ensuring that you enjoy a top-notch experience with every adventure.  This year Riviera's 2 new ships set sail! The MS Riviera Radiance and MS Riviera Rose have been built in collaboration with their long-standing shipping partners, combining state-of-the-art technology with a stylish modern design, offering the perfect balance of contemporary and cozy. 

MS Riviera Radiance

This brand-new design is unlike any of their other river cruise ships. Spread over three floors, this vessel is luxuriously spacious with a light and airy feel. This ship will be joining MS William Wordsworth, MS Thomas Hardy, MS Emily Brontë and MS Oscar Wilde from June 2025 along the Danube on their ever-popular Blue Danube river cruise and epic 15-day Budapest to the Black Sea river cruise.

The culinary experience on board is nothing less than exceptional with not one, not two, but three restaurants to choose from. MS Riviera Radiance is home to Riviera's biggest-ever cabins.
The all-new Grand Suites are a very generous 32 square metres - that's 30% bigger than the next biggest cabins on any of the sxhips in their first-class fleet!*

MS Riviera Rose

MS Riviera Rose will be taking over from its sister ship, MS Porto Mirante, sailing along the Douro on the Highlights of the Douro Valley & Salamanca river cruise setting sail in April 2025. 

Whether you are a foodie - or just love food - you'll enjoy dining in the onboard restaurant. You'll experience the true essence of the Portuguese culture through its food with other 'local flavour' options. Riviera have added four new Balcony Suites to MS Riviera Rose. At 24 square metres, these new suites are some of the largest on the Douro.

What are you waiting for? Contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next getaway onboard a Riviera Travel river cruise!

*Term and conditions: Fares are per person in USD for cruise only, based on double occupancy in a lower deck cabin. 50% off offer is valid until Feb 28, 2025 and available on all river cruises inclusing solo river cruises. Contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant for full terms and conditions.

It’s time to change everything you know about cruises. Imagine yourself surrounded by the comfort of luxury, floating from wonder to wonder amidst beautiful colors, between the Antarctic and the tropical seas of the southern hemisphere. Reveling in a cosmos of culinary delights. Seeing the world in a completely new way. It’s time to experience precious and unique moments for eternity with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. 

FEEL THE DIFFERENCE

The history of cruising isn’t just anyone’s – it’s Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. When the first “pleasure cruise” took place more than 130 years ago, it marked the start of a unique story for Albert Ballin.

With Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, you experience every moment with particular intensity. Thanks to first-rate facilities, high-class service, unique destinations and an incomparable range of wellness, gastronomy and entertainment offers, every second on board becomes a lasting memory. No matter whether you wish to let yourself be pampered and discover a new kind of luxury on the EUROPA 2 or explore the wonders of the world on one of their expedition ships, your senses will be delighted.


SEVEN SPECIAL FEATURES THAT MAKE EVERY MOMENT WITH THEM UNFORGETTABLE

Moments whose perfection resonates silently in every detail
From the texture of the bed covers to the scent of the leather and the grain of the parquet flooring, every facet of the ships is carefully chosen and meets even the highest standards. No wonder that the cruise fleet was named the best in the world by Insight Guides 2025.*

Reach destinations that seem unreachable
With their shallow draught, excellent manoeuvrability and great flexibility, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' fleet makes this possible. They develop extraordinary route concepts that let you discover new destinations over and over again. Even in polar regions. Their unique routes around the world mean that you can combine multiple cruises for even more adventure.

Making dreams come true without you even having to ask
This is something that only first-rate, consistently attentive service can achieve. The crew-to-guest ratio of almost 1:1 enables this.

Extensive space for exclusive numbers of guests
Each of the cruises accommodates a maximum of 230 or 500 guests, who experience unforgettable moments on board the ships in the comfort of an intimate atmosphere. The range of cabins and suites and the generous amount of space on board means that you will feel at home anywhere in the world.

Exclusive gastronomic brilliance
On board the ships, you’ll find culinary highlights inspired, created and prepared by top chefs. That’s why Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has brought in the most creative stars of their field to transform the very best ingredients into perfectly devised works of haute cuisine.

A good topic is like a good cruise – both explore new horizons
As well as sailing you to exclusive and remote destinations, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises also takes you on inspiring journeys into a world of fascinating topics with famous names and experts in the areas of culture, science, well-being, sport and entertainment. They allow you to create your own custom cruise with a choice of activities on board and ashore.

Travel the world – and preserve nature
Exploring the world also means taking responsibility. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises combines a variety of smaller- and larger-scale measures on board to continuously improve their environmental performance. These range from design modifications that help reduce consumption to technical solutions that decrease air emissions as well as various measures within the daily operations. 

ALWAYS INCLUDED WITH HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES

• Welcome champagne in your suite/cabin
• Mini bar, refilled on a daily basis
• Nespresso machine
• 24-hour cabin/suite service
• 1 hour of Wi-Fi per day/per person (service depends on satellite positioning, especially in the polar regions)
• European bedding
• Flatscreen TV in your suite/cabin with extensive information and entertainment program
• Exclusive gourmet restaurants at no extra cost, with flexible mealtimes and no fixed seating plans
• Full board: breakfast, lunch, dinner, pastries and snacks
• Tea and coffee specialties
• Extensive range of fitness classes
• Saunas and state-of-the-art gyms
• All gratuities onboard

EXPEDITION CRUISES - WHERE WORLDS OF WONDER AWAIT YOU

Venture further into regions than other ships, open doors to new experiences that would otherwise remain closed and get exceptionally close to the wonders of nature: in places where larger cruise ships would have to turn back, the HANSEATIC inspiration is right in its element. It is the interplay of a small, modern ship, fascinating destinations and the extensive experience of the captains and crew that opens up new dimensions of discovery. Come aboard the HANSEATIC inspiration to explore innovative, award-winning routes in uncharted territory at the ends of the earth and equally exciting destinations practically on your doorstep.

ANTARCTICA - EXPEDITIONS FOR ETERNITY

Glittering icebergs, mighty glacier panoramas, seabird colonies, seals – and, of course, penguins: welcome to the Antarctic! Immerse yourself in thrilling experiences at the far end of the earth, accompanied by the crunching of pack ice and breathtaking natural spectacles. Here the summer stretches from November to March and is the best time to visit. Where other ships must stop and turn around, the adventure is only just beginning for you: thanks to the highest ice class for passenger ships (PC 6), the HANSEATIC inspiration navigates a flexible course through the polar world of ice, offering spectacular views that you will never forget. Numerous Zodiac rides, landings and hikes provide an active sense exploration – and, on board, you can deepen your discoveries with fascinating lectures, precaps and recaps held by their experts.

MS EUROPA 2 - FREEDOM THAT TAKES YOU PLACES

With a maximum of 500 guests, you can expect maximum personal space and individualized service. And all this with an extremely luxurious number ratio of almost one to one. The EUROPA 2 combines comfort with a high degree of flexibility by also calling at small harbors and remote corners off the beaten track. Welcome aboard the best cruise ship in the world (according to Insight Guides 2025).

THE MEDITERRANEAN AND ATLANTIC ISLANDS - DISCOVER THE MEDITERRANEAN LIFESSTYLE

The islands of the Aegean and the Atlantic islands offer a unique experience for the senses. Glide through the seductive blue of the Mediterranean and let yourself be infected by the Mediterranean lifestyle. The sun's rays dance on the azure waters, while the scent of pine trees and fresh herbs fills the air. Here, where the heart of the south beats, history merges with the lightness of life. The Azores enchant with volcanoes and crater lakes, while the Canary Islands beckon with endless beaches and impressive nature. On impressive excursions, from deck or from the Zodiac, each island shows a different face and will inspire you anew every day.

What are you waiting for? Contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant today to start planning your next getaway and take advantage of these spectacular offers!

For anyone who believes food and wine are essential to a luxury vacation, Riverside Luxury Cruises offers the ultimate culinary experience. As a proud partner of Riverside, we're excited to share their exclusive river cruise itineraries that bring you to Europe’s most renowned food and wine regions, all while enjoying the elegance and comfort of their meticulously appointed ships.

Voted Best Dining in the River Cruise category by Cruise Critic for two years running, Riverside Luxury Cruises invites you to embark on a gastronomic adventure through Europe’s most picturesque and iconic regions. Imagine cruising the scenic rivers of the Danube, Rhine, Rhône, Main, and Moselle—with over 170 curated departures offering unparalleled access to the continent’s finest food and wine destinations.

Whether you’re wandering through charming medieval villages, exploring ancient vineyards, or savoring exclusive culinary experiences, Riverside ensures every moment of your journey is filled with the rich flavors of Europe. Let us take you on a voyage that blends exceptional cuisine with the luxury of personalized, intimate travel.

Gourmet Culinary Excursions for the Discerning Traveler

Riverside’s curated culinary excursions are designed to offer an authentic taste of Europe’s diverse food culture. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a lover of regional cuisine, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, these experiences will take your travel to a whole new level.

Wine Tasting in Austria’s Wachau Valley
Cruise the Danube and discover Austria’s celebrated Wachau Valley—home to some of the country’s finest vineyards. Take private tours of family-run wineries, sip on award-winning Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, and learn about the ancient winemaking traditions that have shaped this breathtaking region for centuries.

Provençal Cooking Classes in the South of France

Join Riverside’s exclusive hands-on cooking classes in Provence, where you’ll master the art of traditional French dishes such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and tapenade. Visit vibrant markets, work with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and immerse yourself in the French philosophy of farm-to-table dining, all while soaking in the Mediterranean charm of the region.

Michelin-Starred Dining in Lyon

As France’s gastronomic capital, Lyon offers a culinary experience like no other. Riverside’s guests are treated to an extraordinary dining experience, featuring Michelin-starred cuisine paired perfectly with wines from the Rhône Valley. Taste seasonal, creative dishes that elevate the art of French cooking to new heights.

Beer Tasting in Bavaria, Germany

Explore Bavaria’s rich brewing heritage with exclusive brewery tours and tastings. From historic beer halls to outdoor beer gardens, discover the local ingredients and traditional techniques that have made German beer legendary. Enjoy famous styles like Dunkel and Doppelbock, all while learning about the cultural importance of beer in Germany.

Viennese Pastry Sampling: A Sweet Escape

Indulge in the luxurious art of Viennese pastry-making with Riverside’s curated excursions in Vienna. Sample the iconic Sachertorte and discover hidden dessert gems like Buchteln. Embrace Vienna’s café culture, where enjoying a pastry and coffee is a refined and delicious experience.

Onboard Dining Excellence: A Journey of Flavor

Onboard, Riverside’s commitment to culinary excellence continues with menus inspired by the regions you’re exploring. Each meal is a seamless connection between destination and dish, featuring exceptional wine pairings and immersive culinary events such as chef-hosted dinners in the exclusive Vintage Room. Let their chefs guide you through a sensory experience that brings Europe’s best flavors to life.

Riverside Luxury Cruises offers more than just a river cruise—it’s a bespoke culinary journey designed to satisfy your cravings while exploring Europe’s finest food and wine regions. 

With over 170 departures, now is the perfect time to embark on this once-in-a-lifetime culinary adventure. From world-class wineries to Michelin-starred meals, Riverside Luxury Cruises offers the ideal way to explore Europe’s culinary heritage in ultimate luxury.

Ready to begin your food lover’s dream vacation? Contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant today!

*Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your vacation consultant.