MSC Cruises from Southampton – discover the world through first-class cruise deals No matter where in the world you want to explore, a couple of key factors are likely to sit high on your travel priority list. Firstly, ideally, the journey itself will be a joy. Secondly, the experience will...

To mark the launch of our new luxury trips to South Africa we're dedicating this week's blog to South Africa. Discover some of the wonders of this amazing country and find out more about a handcrafted trip of a lifetime.

Italy is a country that effortlessly combines rich history, stunning landscapes, delectable cuisine, and vibrant culture. With so much to see and do, planning the perfect itinerary can be a delightful challenge.   Read on to discover five hand-crafted itineraries for your 14 days in Italy.

Discover the nation's enchanting coastal regions and spectacular natural beaches

Are you ready for an unforgettable week in one of the world's most captivating countries? Italy is brimming with treasures, but crafting the perfect 7-day journey can be daunting. Don't fret; we've curated eight exceptional itineraries to ensure your Italian escape is a delightful adventure!

Southern Italy is celebrated for its vibrant culture, sun-drenched landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, which includes iconic dishes like pizza, and pasta alla norma. Explore our expertly curated Southern Italy itineraries, and whether your stay is brief or extended, you'll fall in love with this captivating destination

Northern Italy is known for its rich culinary heritage, including iconic dishes like risotto, fresh pasta, and delectable cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano. Discover here our expertly crafted Northern Italy itineraries. Whether you are spending weeks or days in this beautiful region, you are sure to love this travel gem.

Italy stands as a renowned travel destination, and it's easy to see why. This captivating country has consistently charmed its way onto countless bucket lists, all thanks to its exquisite cuisine, rich culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Wondering how to maximize your time in Italy? Look no further, as we've expertly designed six distinct 5-day Italy itineraries to ensure you have the best trip possible.

Italy is a classic travel destination — and for very good reason. One of the most beautiful places in the world, the Stivale is a diverse destination that deserves repeat visits.So how to make the best of your ten days? Below, you'll find eight distinct 10-day Italy itineraries, offering a variety of ways to make the most of your 10-day stay in Italy.

Being awestruck by Antarctic wildlife. Savouring Michelin-starred meals. Experiencing the magic of one-of-a-kind UNESCO sites. There’s no question that Douglas Ward — esteemed author of the Insight Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships — has enjoyed plenty of incredible experiences during his 39-year tenure devoted to the cruise industry. Originally published as the Berlitz Handbook to Cruising, there’s no better book — or expert — to inform and inspire cruise travelers. So, if you’re looking to enjoy your own voyage of a lifetime, read on to discover 39 amazing cruise experiences, courtesy of the author himself.

These days, pretty much every kind of traveler, of pretty much any age, can enjoy an unforgettable cruise experience. That said, with so many companies, ships and routes to choose from, navigating your way to your ideal cruise can be less than plain sailing. With that in mind, read on for an overview of the best cruises for every type of traveler.

Embarking on a cruise vacation offers an extraordinary blend of exploration and relaxation on the high seas. That said, for first-time cruisers, navigating all those pre-trip decisions can be on the daunting side. So, to ensure a smooth voyage that delivers unforgettable experiences, keep these essential cruise tips in mind.

Track the powerful Kalahari lion and see the stealthy cheetah in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, one of the world’s largest national parks. Come across a huge rhino, a zebra quenching its thirst, or an elegant giraffe munching its lunch, at Mokala National Park and Tswalu Kalahari Reserve. See mighty birds of prey silhouetted against the sun and gaze at a star-filled sky come nightfall. The sparsely populated Northern Cape, with its vast expanses of sun-baked desert and solitude, is one of the best regions for a South Africa safari.

Home to coconut palm-fringed beaches, lush jungles, and miles of sapphire ocean, you don't have to travel far in the Philippines for a postcard-perfect view. Yet this archipelago is more than just pretty to look at.

Picture England’s West Midlands landscape, and you might think of the region’s industrial past. But you probably didn’t know that the city of Birmingham alone is home to more parks than any other European city. Join our travel expert and Birmingham native, Richard Franks, as he takes you on a stroll through the best of the West Midlands' gorgeous green spaces.

The Northern Cape’s vast expanse of wilderness provides outdoor adventure galore for all the family, especially within its many national parks. Get afloat on the Orange river and see the mighty Augrabies Falls. Go on a wildlife safari and listen out for the roar of the Kalahari lion. Walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs, discover Kimberley’s wild west diamond days and learn about the history of South Africa. See thousands of flowers in stunning technicolour and look at the cosmos through a telescope – or simply gaze up at the stars. Travel to the Northern Cape in South Africa with kids and you’ll find plenty of things to do.

Spend Christmas in Costa Rica where it's celebrated everywhere and the country comes alive with twinkling lights and trimmed trees. Take a look at our guide to the best places to spend the holiday in Costa Rica, whether you want lively cities, volcanoes or rainforest for Christmas.

Known as ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ the southern state of the USA is a region rich in culture and history, southern hospitality and natural beauty. Hike up forest-smothered mountains and lie on gorgeous white-sand beaches. Tuck into succulent fried chicken and party till you drop at America’s oldest Mardi Gras. Discover its great musical legends and trace the roots of the American Civil Rights Movement. You’ll discover so many things to do in Alabama.

Kanazawa City is the capital of Ishikawa prefecture, located on the west coast of the main Japanese island of Honshu. Not only does the city have a fascinating history – which visitors today can explore in its former samurai quarters – but it’s also well-acclaimed for its stand-out cuisine. Continue reading to discover this city in all its glory – and less than 3hr away from Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.

The fabulous Cammino Basiliano® is southern Italy’s newest long-distance hiking trail, snaking for nearly 1500 kilometers through the sun-baked region of Calabria. The route begins in Rocca Imperiale, just across the border from Basilicata, the neighbouring region to Calabria’s north, and finishes up in Reggio Calabria, opposite Sicily.

Insight Guides author Owen Morton takes a look at the Nativity’s most enticing locations.