Hello, ! Welcome to Lush Life Travel's weekly newsletter. This week, we'll cover: 1. 🚢 Featured in Travel Courier! What’s New in Cruising? 2. River Cruise Corner - Avalon Waterways Promotion 3. Adventure Travel Corner- Mountains to Coast: Slovenia, Trieste, and
Istria 4. Wellness Travel Corner - Ready to exhale? 5. Client Testimonial - EVERY DETAIL TAKEN CARE OF BEAUTIFULLY 6. Travel with Sheila: Women's River Cruise Paris & Normandy 7. Explore Award-Winning Inspiration 8. Elevate Hotel Stays Exclusive Perks-VIP You & Eichardt's Private Hotel 9. Special Offers from Lush Life
Travel, a Direct Travel affiliate & top Virtuoso partner Let me know if you'd like to schedule a complimentary consultation! 📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey: Sheila Gallant-Halloran | Lush Life Travel
www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca
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1. 🚢 Featured in Travel Courier! What’s New in Cruising? Ottawa's Sheila Gallant-Halloran of Lush Life Travel in Antarctica with Lindblad Expeditions. Hello, Lush Lifers! I’m thrilled to share a bit of exciting news—I was featured in two major Canadian travel trade publications this week, both released on the same
day! 🎉 These features shine a spotlight on something I’m deeply passionate about: cruising done right—whether it’s a serene river cruise through historic towns, a thrilling expedition to remote corners of the globe, or the classic elegance of ocean cruising. Last week's newsletter spotlight was an in-depth look at river cruising, This week, I’ll share the second profile, which dives into current trends in river, expedition, and ocean cruising—topics that are truly near and
dear to my heart. If this inspires ideas for your own future travels, I’d love to help.
✨ Let’s chat about how to make your next trip unforgettable—whether it’s a romantic river cruise, an epic expedition, or something completely
bespoke.
📅 Schedule your consultation here and let’s start dreaming! Warmly,
Sheila
Lush Life Travel | Virtuoso Cruise Icon
www.lushlife.ca 🌊 Spotlight #1: River Cruising Insights from ViennaLast week’s article takes a deep dive into river cruising, inspired by my time at the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Vienna. It explores what’s new, what’s next, and how advisors like me are curating unforgettable river journeys for our clients. 📖 Read the full feature here:
How a Canadian travel advisor gained major insights at ASTA’s River Cruise Expo in Vienna
🚢 Spotlight #2: Ask the Agent –
Travel CourierThe second feature comes from Travel Courier’s “Ask the Agent” series, where I was profiled alongside fellow cruise specialist Dianne Frost. We chatted about trends in river, expedition, and ocean cruising—and I had the chance to share a few thoughts on why these styles of travel resonate so deeply with the clients I serve. 📖 You can read that feature here:
Ask the Agent with Dianne Frost and Sheila Gallant-Halloran
Whether
you’re dreaming of gliding down the Danube, exploring polar coastlines, or soaking in a balcony view in the Mediterranean, there’s a style of cruise that’s perfect for you—and I’d love to help you find it. Thanks, as always, for being part of the Lush Life Travel community. ✨ Warmly,
Sheila
Founder & Principal, Lush Life
Travel Here's the article. Thanks, Ann Ruppenstein of
Baxter Trade/ Travel Courier. ### Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you started specializing in cruises?DF: I started my career in 1989 in Yellowknife, N.W.T., where folks love to travel, and
have lived in Calgary, Alta., for the past 18 years. I enjoy being close to the Rocky Mountains and just a short flight from family in Vancouver, B.C. My first cruise in the Bahamas and an unforgettable journey through the Greek Islands sparked my love for cruising. Now, as a small business owner specializing in luxury travel, I design personalize ocean, river cruises and expeditions, and European holidays for my clients. SGH: I’m Sheila, founder of Lush Life Travel, and my journey from actuary to luxury travel specialist began when I realized that true wealth comes from living a lush life through extraordinary experiences—not just measuring ‘return on investment’ but ‘return on life.’ Now, as a two-time Virtuoso Cruise Icon in the top 1% globally, I leverage my precision
and risk management skills to craft unforgettable cruise journeys that enrich every moment of my clients’ lives. What are some of the new ships debuting this year that you are excited about? DF: I had the opportunity to sail on the beautifully designed Explora I and am
thrilled to be hosting a 14-day journey through the Greek Islands this September. I can’t wait for Explora III’s launch in 2026. I was honoured to attend the relaunch of Crystal Serenity, sailing from Venice to Marseille. The suites, food, and service were exceptional. I’ve also hosted a 17-day sailing on Crystal Symphony, which my clients loved. I’m excited for Crystal’s newest ship launch in 2028. SGH: I’m thrilled about several new and newer ships. I recently sailed on the National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions Endurance in November 2024 in Antarctica—an outstanding expedition vessel with a top-tier scientific crew and even an igloo for a unique night under the stars on the Drake Passage. Currently, I’m experiencing Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot in Quebec, a remarkable
blend of luxury ice-breaker capabilities and superb French food and service. I also had an amazing journey with Explora Journeys last September from Istanbul to Athens and am eagerly anticipating their recently debuted sister ship, Explora II. Plus, having sailed on three AmaWaterways ships in the past year and a half, I’m very excited to try their new river cruise ship in Colombia, and check out their latest offering to Egypt. What’s new and notable when it comes to cruising? DF: Cruise lines are prioritizing eco-friendly initiatives with LNG-powered ships, shore power adoption, and energy-efficient designs. Efforts to reduce emissions include advanced waste management systems and cleaner fuel alternatives. Many are
eliminating single-use plastics, introducing battery-powered vessels, and investing in hybrid technology. Explora Journeys’ fleet is RINA Dolphin-certified for reduced underwater noise, helping to protect marine life. The industry is also committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. SGH: There’s no doubt that river cruising and expedition cruising are booming right now. Travelers want to take big, unforgettable trips without the hassle of crowds. That’s why small ocean cruises, expedition voyages like those on the Lindblad Endurance and Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, and boutique-style river cruises are taking center stage. Expedition cruises are becoming more comfortable—allowing you to explore remote spots with the reassurance of top-notch
amenities—while river cruise operators like AmaWaterways are stepping up their game with innovations like their double-wide Magna and the upcoming Magna II. These trends reflect a growing desire for adventure without sacrificing comfort, which is precisely why I choose to specialize in these intimate, luxury travel experiences.
What do you
sell the most of – river cruises, expedition cruises or ocean cruises? Do clients tend to splurge on a more luxurious experience, or are they still looking for affordable options?
DF: Most of my clients seek a luxury experience tailored to their preferences. Some initially assume a luxury or river cruise is beyond their
budget; however, once they understand the value-the inclusions, spacious suites, and intimate onboard setting-they see it’s a worthwhile investment. SGH: I specialize in river, expedition, and small ship ocean cruises—essentially, the intimate experiences that allow travelers to truly immerse
themselves in a destination. Coming out of the pandemic, my clients continue to favor smaller ships over the mega vessels that feel like moving cities. They’re willing to invest a bit more for comfort and a curated, immersive experience. For example, when heading to Tahiti, as I did last June, my clients prefer a voyage with a company like Windstar Cruises, which emphasizes sustainability and respects the local people, culture, and environment, rather than opting for ships filled with flashy
amenities like rock climbing walls and skating rinks. What are some of the hot itineraries or destinations for cruises or river cruises? DF: Europe continues to be a top destination for travellers drawn to its rich culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes. I’m also noticing a growing interest in unique travel experiences among couples in their mid to
late 30s. This past year, one young couple embarked on an expedition cruise in the Galápagos Islands, while another took a 17-day journey through Australia and New Zealand-both creating once-in-a-lifetime memories. SGH: Right now, “cold is hot” in travel—there’s a real thrill in the chill. I
experienced it firsthand in Antarctica in November, and I’m currently soaking it in here in Quebec. Many of my clients are eager for unique, bucket-list adventures that offer true immersion in their destinations. Popular choices include icy escapes like Antarctica, Canada, Norway, Greenland, and even Northwest Passage itineraries. On the river cruise side, the Danube and Rhine remain perennial favorites, while France’s Seine, Bordeaux, and Rhone are rapidly gaining traction. In fact, I’m taking
a group of ladies on an AMA Seine cruise this November, with a memorable stop in Normandy for Remembrance Day—some clients are even planning to wear their military uniforms, adding a special touch. River cruises to Egypt, Vietnam, and Colombia are also seeing strong bookings, as travellers continue to seek out culturally immersive experiences wherever they go. Any other booking trends?SGH: I’m noticing several interesting booking trends. Clients are increasingly opting for longer voyages—I’m booking back-to-back river cruises along with small ocean
and extended expedition cruises. Multigenerational trips are also trending, particularly to destinations like the Galapagos and Alaska, where Lindblad does a tremendous job catering to family and group travel. Additionally, the solo travel segment continues to thrive; adventurous solo travelers are drawn to companies that waive the solo supplement, allowing them to travel independently while still enjoying the camaraderie of group experiences. Do you have any tips for other advisors getting into expedition cruises and luxury ocean cruises?DF: Get to know at least four different expedition, ocean, and river cruise lines, focus on what makes each one distinct. Understanding the brand’s offerings will help you match clients with the best option for
their travel style. Some of my most valuable bookings have come from clients who hadn’t even considered an ocean or river cruise. SGH: My top tip for advisors diving into expedition cruises is to immerse yourself in the learning process—attend webinars, complete certification courses, and
build strong relationships with your BDM by asking lots of questions. It’s essential to get on an expedition yourself, or even plan a group trip, so you can sell the experience with genuine confidence. Trust me, stepping onto the continent of Antarctica is life-changing; the pristine ice, adorable penguins, and that unmistakable “thrill in the chill” seep into your soul and transform the way you see the world. Are there any cruise lines in particular that are very trade friendly?DF: Building connections with partners is important to me. They offer assistance with group bookings, host events with us, help keep my knowledge base current by providing educational opportunities and stay actively engaged
in our collaboration. Over the years, I’ve cultivated strong relationships that help provide value to my clients. I’m grateful for the ongoing support from: Uniworld – Peter Nowick; AmaWaterways – Shauna Carter; Explora Journeys – Lisa Willey and Silversea – Eva Horn. SGH: I truly appreciate working with cruise lines that value our role as travel advisors. Some of the most trade-friendly companies I’ve partnered with include Lindblad Expeditions, Silversea, Ponant, Quark, AmaWaterways, Uniworld River Cruises, Tauck, Windstar, Azamara, and Explora. I’ve found that the more you sell, the more “pull” you have with these
companies—so it really pays to build your numbers and invest time in a strong relationship with your BDM. This not only secures better rates and perks but also keeps you top-of-mind for new opportunities. What’s the most expensive or the longest or the most fascinating cruise you’ve ever booked?DF: The most fascinating booking was a Galápagos cruise with a wildlife
centre stay. The longest was a 48-day journey from San Diego to Auckland. The most expensive was a $100K+ South Pacific sailing, including flights and hotels. I love putting everything together to create unforgettable experiences for my clients. SGH: I love building deep relationships with my
clients because it naturally leads to longer, more personalized cruises that truly reflect their travel dreams. For instance, many of my Lindblad enthusiasts have booked 10+ cruises with us because they value the immersive experience—a multi-week expedition to Antarctica that includes stops at South Georgia and the Falklands is always a standout adventure. I’ve also arranged extended world cruises with Cunard and curated segments with Oceania or Regent that offer luxurious, tailored experiences.
Plus, the back-to-back itineraries on Azamara, Silversea, AmaWaterways, and Uniworld—with their fantastic tour add-ons—let clients explore multiple destinations seamlessly. Each of these journeys is designed to deliver an unforgettable blend of luxury, adventure, and discovery. Do you have anything to add?DF: Staying open to new ideas and embracing change, especially in the ever-evolving travel industry, has helped my business grow. With the incredible support of my host agency, Journeys by Escapes, I’ve been able to focus exclusively on luxury travel and help clients turn their travel dreams into reality. There’s nothing more rewarding than hearing about the memories they’ve created! SGH: In summary, as a Cruise Icon in the top 1% globally, I specialize in crafting unforgettable and sustainable journeys—from the exhilarating “thrill of the chill” on expedition cruises to the immersive intimacy of river voyages. At Lush Life Travel, my mission is simple: live your lush life through travel by embracing transformative, eco-conscious
experiences every step of the way Changing an outlook can be a great thing. At Avalon, they wouldn’t have it any other way. Their entire fleet of Suite Ships® in Europe and Southeast Asia features incomparable Panorama Suites with the widest windows in river cruising that transform their suites
into their signature Open Air Balconies. While other river cruise ships stick the bed against one wall only to face another wall, they’ve turned that idea on its head. With beds that actually face their wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows, you will stretch out to the widest views in river cruising. With these kind of views, you can only open wide and say “Aaaahhhh!” Many of these perks and amenities are only available when you book your stay through Sheila, as a Virtuoso travel
advisor. 3.Adventure Travel Corner- Mountains to Coast: Slovenia, Trieste, and Istria (7 days)Take an expertly curated seven-day journey through Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia with Abercrombie & Kent. Travelers can glide across Lake Bled in a traditional pletna boat, sip
coffee in Trieste's elegant squares, and wander the medieval streets of Motovun. Thrill-seekers will love ziplining over the Sava Dolinka River and exploring the subterranean landscapes of the Škocjan Caves. Along the way, your clients can immerse themselves in local culinary traditions, from truffle hunting to indulging in exquisite wines
and olive oils.
With hand-selected guides and personalized concierge services, Abercrombie & Kent Italy guarantees a seamless journey for you filled with enriching experiences, every time. See tour: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/sheilagallanthalloran/tours/18045271/mountains-to-coast-slovenia-trieste-and-istria 4. Wellness Travel Corner- Ready to exhale? Find Balance | Check out Ferraris and fashion in Northern Italy. Immerse in the artful splendour and laid-back luxury of Laguna Beach.
Experience the intimacy of small-ship sailing to lesser-known ports, choosing your exclusive benefits as you wish. Whatever relaxation and disconnection mean to you, your Virtuoso travel advisor knows the destination that unwinds, destresses, and refuels your spirit. Connect today to follow your dreams. |
Wandering Malta Silema round-trip Immerse yourself in centuries of history in Malta – a Mediterranean archipelago filled with luxurious accommodations, immaculate weather, and curated experiences for every traveller. Insight Vacations takes a relaxed, enjoyable pace through Valletta’s golden-hued buildings and peaceful Mdina A Napa Valley Getaway Calistoga, California Take the wheel of a sports car on a curated driving experience along Napa Valley’s most scenic routes. Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley features the wonders of wine country on an
extraordinary escape, from hot-air ballooning to private tours of sought-after wineries. Italy Revealed Milan round-trip Indulge in Northern Italy’s finest on this 10-day Globus Undiscovered Tour. Savour fresh seafood on the coast, taste balsamic vinegar in Modena, sip wine in Gabiano, and explore Milan in style, all while enjoying hand-selected hotels, insights from expert guides, VIP access, and more. Island Time Montego Bay, Jamaica Indulge in luxury, exclusive perks, and more on this idyllic Jamaica retreat with Island Destinations. Your experience at one of the island’s most iconic resorts includes airport transfers and access to 2 restaurants, the spa, an infinity-edge swimming pool, and a
private beachfront. Journey to Jasper North America Board a Rocky Mountaineer luxury train and explore North American treasures, including the recently reopened UNESCO World Heritage site, Jasper National Park. Journey to Jasper on select travel dates in 2025 and save US$1,000 per couple on eligible packages. Love From
Anywhere Worldwide Discover the world on one of Virgin Voyages’ adult-only ships without breaking the bank. Lock in 80% off a 2nd sailor and up to US$300 in free drinks, plus, up to 10% in instant savings when you pay in full to experience the Caribbean, Europe, or North America. Islands & Volcanoes San Jose to Panama City Zipline through tropical rainforests, search for wildlife on hikes and Zodiac cruises, and visit 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, from Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano area through the Panama Canal to Portobelo and the Pearl Islands. https://e.virtuosoemail.com/virtuoso-insiders-guide-ready-to-exhale-1?ecid=ACsprvufT278QeLSgYMZz7bls2NysAaIXyMp43ZxYV0Ix9xVm5Kzc3zsk6E5WcVHxwMG5B-Xlu9c
5. Client Testimonial - EVERY DETAIL TAKEN CARE OF BEAUTIFULLY
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EVERY DETAIL TAKEN CARE OF BEAUTIFULLYBy: Happy Couple Who Needed a Romantic Getaway
- Trefor in Ottawa We had an idea where we wanted to go, but Sheila really made it happen. We have three wonderful children, but we needed some time that was just for us. So we found remote Greek island and shared our ideas with Sheila. Quickly and easily, Sheila took care of all of the details, found us the absolutely best place to stay on the island, coordinated all the flights and layovers so all we had to do was relax. Sheila is such a clear communicator and was able to deal with every question we had. We ran into complications on our return trip and Sheila had a new plan sorted out in no time at all. We can't say enough about how wonderful Sheila is to work with. We highly recommend that you connect with her. If you're ready to experience stress-free, first-class travel, let's chat! 💬 Read more verified client reviews here. Where will your next adventure take you? 🚢💫
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6. Travel with Sheila: 2025 Women's River Cruise to Paris & Normandy What are you waiting for? I’m thrilled to be hosting another incredible group journey, this time on a women-focused river cruise to Paris and Normandy in November 2025. While the spotlight will be on women’s themes, spouses and partners are welcome! They can skip the morning talks and still enjoy the shore excursions, dining, and everything else onboard. (Several husbands are
booked too!) Why Join This Cruise?
✨ Paris: Always enchanting and vibrant.
✨ Normandy: Stunning coastlines, artistic beauty, and rich history. Explore Monet’s Gardens, the charming harbor of Honfleur, Joan of Arc’s legacy, and the D-Day beaches, including a special Remembrance Day
tour on November 11th (with tailored visits to Canadian or American beaches).
✨ Château de Bizy: Experience the grandeur of "the Versailles of Normandy." Blend culture, art, architecture, and the good life as we sail the Seine together. Cruise Details:
🚢 Line: AMA Waterways, aboard the luxurious AMA Dante
📅 When: November 8, 2025, for 7 nights (option to add a 2-night pre-cruise in Paris)
📍 Itinerary: Roundtrip Paris along the Seine Special
Offers: Reduced solo supplement cabins—grab them before they’re gone! - The latest edition of Travel with Sheila -Join Me: 2025 Women's River Cruise to Paris & Normandy
All category E, D, and C are now sold out. I still have some category A, B, and suites. If you've been considering joining me,
now is the time to book. Would you like to join me? For the category B twin balcony or category A twin balcony, let me know if you'd like updated pricing. The pricing promos changed as at Dec.31.24. So let me know if you'd like to book, and if you are solo or double occupancy, as that will impact pricing. 🗺️ For full details, including itinerary, deck plans, and inclusions (kindly note - the pricing promos have changed as at Dec.31.24 - let me know if you'd like to confirm updated pricing), visit: 2025 Women’s River Cruise Details. 🎥 Watch a recording of my webinar with AMA Waterways BDM Neil Dudley: Cruise Presentation. And there's also this presentation with Neil and me:
7. Explore Award-Winning Inspiration
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8. Elevate Your Hotel Stays with Exclusive Perks - VIP You & Eichardt's Private Hotel
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Unlock Exclusive Perks for Your Luxury Hotel Stay Did you know booking your luxury hotel stay through me unlocks exclusive perks and amenities? Here’s a sneak peek at how I can elevate your next getaway: ✨ Room Upgrades – Enjoy better views, larger rooms, or added comforts through my relationships with top hotel management.
🍳 Complimentary Breakfast & Credits – Delight in free breakfasts or use dining, spa, or resort credits to enhance your stay.
⏰ Early Check-In & Late Check-Out – Enjoy added flexibility with personalized arrival and departure times.
🎁
Welcome Amenities – Arrive to thoughtful touches like champagne, gifts, or personalized surprises.
👑 VIP Treatment – Access priority bookings at spas, restaurants, and events for a truly exclusive experience.
🌍 Custom Experiences – Let me tailor private tours or special activities to your interests.
📅 Flexible Booking Policies – Benefit from accommodating terms that provide peace of mind. As a Virtuoso luxury advisor, I leverage top-tier programs like Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Belmond Bellini Club, Rosewood Elite, and many more to ensure your stay is nothing short of extraordinary. While I
specialize in river and expedition cruises, as well as bespoke trips to Africa and Australia, I’m happy to book luxury hotels for my clients. Hotel-only bookings are subject to my professional fees, outlined here: Fee Schedule. 💻 For Last-Minute Stays
If you’re planning a quick trip and don’t need VIP services or concierge add-ons, you can self-book luxury properties through my Virtuoso website: Browse & Book Hotels Online. Self-booking waives my fees, but if
additional support or VIP services are required later, standard fees will apply. 💡 Still Wondering Why Book with an Advisor?
Explore these blog posts for insights: Let’s make your next hotel stay truly exceptional. Ready to get started?
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See some additional detail on these preferred HOTEL PROGRAMS A sumptuous retreat for the most discerning globetrotters, Eichardt’s Private Hotel, in its pristine lakefront setting, offers seven luxurious suites, four apartments, and one rooftop Penthouse suite in the heart of town, and four three-bedroom villas. Each abode, with a super-king bed,
fireplace, and generous bathroom, is the perfect place to rest after a day of exploring this vibrant city’s historic sites, shops, and cafés. The latest additions to the Eichardt’s portfolio include an 80-foot cruising yacht Pacific Jemm, available for day charter or overnight, and The Grille by Eichardt’s, both of which are located on Lake Wakatipu. Virtuoso travelers receive:For 2024 (to be confirmed for 2025 at booking): - Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom (already included in rates)
- $100 USD equivalent in local currency Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if
not redeemed in full)
- Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Many of these perks and amenities are only available when you book your stay through Sheila, your Virtuoso travel advisor. Let me know if one of these holidays catches your eye—I’d love to help you plan your next unforgettable journey!
Unlock Your Lush Life through Travel
At Lush Life Travel, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re unlocking 20 years of travel expertise paired with 20 years in financial services. My focus on detail, risk management, and a network of trusted relationships ensures your journey is seamless, unforgettable, and uniquely yours. Let’s turn your bucket list travel dreams into reality. sheila@lushlife.ca 👉 Schedule your consultation today https://tinyurl.com/LushLifeConsult and be sure to complete this Survey: https://tinyurl.com/LushLifeConsultSurvey Here’s to creating defining moments and living your lush life through travel!
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Live a Lush Life - Travel!
Lush regards,
Sheila Gallant-Halloran
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