🌍 From Shattered to Stunning: The Travel Story That Might Reshape Your 2026Dear Lush Lifers, Some places stay with
you—not because of what they are, but because of what they overcame. Back in early December, I boarded the Hawke’s Bay Express (off a Silversea cruise), and arrived in Napier, New Zealand—a small coastal city with one of the most extraordinary comeback stories I’ve ever encountered. In 1931, Napier was struck by a devastating earthquake.
The land cracked. The seabed rose.
An entire harbor floor lifted from the ocean, and the city was left in ruins. But that moment of destruction became the start of something incredible. Napier didn’t just rebuild—it reimagined itself.
The city was reborn in full Art Deco style,
creating one of the most architecturally cohesive and striking urban landscapes anywhere in the world. Walking its streets today is like stepping into a living time capsule—elegant façades, vintage detail, and a quiet resilience woven into every corner. You don’t just see history here. You feel it. And as I stood there, one question kept echoing: 👉 What could rebuilding look like for me in 2026? Because meaningful travel doesn’t just show us beauty.
It reflects our own stories back to us. So as this new year begins, I invite you to reflect: What part of your life is ready for reinvention? Where could you go to find clarity, courage, or new perspective? How might travel help you step into your next chapter with intention? ✨ Napier reminded me: from the deepest shifts can come the most beautiful transformations. Here’s to rebuilding
boldly in 2026—wherever the journey begins. Warmest wishes,
— Sheila Gallant-Halloran, Lush Life Travel
📌 Ready to design a trip that inspires your next chapter?
Let’s create something unforgettable. #TravelWithMeaning #ReturnOnLife #2026Vision
#NapierNZ #ArtDecoRevival #TransformationThroughTravel #LushLifeTravel 🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey: 🔹 Schedule a Consult Warmly,
Sheila Gallant-Halloran
Virtuoso Cruise Icon
www.lushlife.ca 🌍 This Week’s 4 Travel CornersEach week, we bring you insights from four inspiring corners of the travel world—designed to spark ideas, fuel your wanderlust, and keep you in the loop on what’s possible next: River Cruise Corner – Explore the best of river cruising with itinerary highlights, ship spotlights, and insider tips. Adventure Travel Corner
– From safaris to polar expeditions, get inspired by journeys that push the boundaries of exploration. Wellness Travel Corner – Discover retreats, resorts, and experiences that help you relax, recharge, and reconnect. Come Travel With Me Corner – Join one of my upcoming hosted group trips and experience the world with fellow curious, like-minded travelers—crafted and guided by me. Where will your next
corner of the world be? Let’s find out together. 1. River Cruise Corner - Christmas Markets 2027 — and Something More for SolosLast week, I shared the early idea for a 2027 Christmas Markets cruise—and I’ve been thrilled by the response! The plan is shaping up for a Rhine Christmas Markets sailing in November 2027—a cozy, scenic, and delightfully festive way to start the holiday season. I had a couple of group contracts on hold in December, but the pricing came in
quite high for solos—so I had to step back and reevaluate. Now that we’re in 2026, I’ll be reviewing all the new promos this week and carefully stepping through the options to find the best fit in terms of value, service, food, and festive experiences. 👫 For couples or small groups, this itinerary will be a dream: twinkling
lights, glühwein, medieval towns, and slow, scenic sailing through the heart of holiday magic. 🙋♀️ For solos? You’re still very welcome!
But keep in mind—solo cabins on these Christmas sailings can be limited, and solo supplements (for a normal double occupancy cabin) are often higher due to demand. If you are ok with
supplements, or you’re open to partnering up with a friend or fellow traveler, this could be a great shared experience. That said, I know many solo travelers want their own space—and a more intentionally solo-friendly vibe. So… 💡 I’m working on a more solo-friendly river cruise in 2026, during a quieter season when better solo pricing is possible, and where connection, ease, and independence can all thrive. 📩 Want early details on either cruise?
Email me at sheila@lushlife.ca and I’ll keep you in the loop. Let’s make 2026 or 2027 the year you float into something magical—whether you bring someone along or just bring your bold self. — Sheila. 2. Adventure Travel - 2025 didn’t whisper—it roared.2025 didn’t whisper—it roared.
And now? You should go where only the bold go.
Antarctica, 2026. In reviewing my 2025 travels, I watched a video I'd captured in
Antarctica of a seal—poised on a drifting stage of ice—slide effortlessly into the Southern Ocean like it was the grand finale of a show scored by Ice Ice Baby. No splash. No panic. Just pure main-character energy. See https://www.instagram.com/sheila_lushlife/reel/DS7y_nzDmv_/ And I realized:
We don’t need more noise. We need more meaning.
2025 cracked something open.
A hunger for presence.
A pull toward movement, not just escape.
A craving for something that shakes us awake. This
isn’t about going bigger.
It’s about going deeper.
Not just a vacation—but a full-body YES to transformation. See https://www.instagram.com/sheila_lushlife/reel/DS-MBOqjh_j/ So if you’ve been waiting for the right moment to take that leap, this is your sign.
🌍 Do something bold.
🌬 Go somewhere few dare.
🧊
Live your Lush Life—even at the edge of the world. 👇 What’s your “something big” for 2026? #2025ExitSong #Antarctica2026 #LushLifeAdventures #MainCharacterEnergy #SomethingBig
#TravelWithMeaning #ReturnOnLife 3. Wellness Corner - Sleep Better—At Home and While You Travel Sleep is one of those things we think we’re
managing… until we realize we’re not. And as someone who works with busy, high-performing clients—and travels frequently myself—I’m always interested in small, practical ways to improve sleep quality. Over the holidays, my daughter encouraged me to try mouth taping—a wellness trend that’s been gaining traction for its potential
to improve sleep, oral health, bad breath, and even snoring. I’ll admit, I was skeptical. But after trying it over Christmas, I genuinely noticed that I slept more deeply and more soundly. One Canadian brand doing this thoughtfully is Mintier, a Toronto-based company that released its mouth tape
in August 2024. (See https://www.shopmintier.com/collections/mouth-tape .) Their product is designed specifically for comfort and safety, which matters when you’re introducing anything new into a nighttime routine. The trend has also received thoughtful, balanced coverage in CBC News, including an article and interview by Tara McCarthy (see https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/here-s-what-the-experts-say-about-sleeping-with-your-mouth-taped-1.7466999 ) exploring both the potential benefits and the medical context behind mouth taping. It’s refreshing to see wellness trends discussed with nuance rather than hype. This idea isn’t entirely new. It strongly echoes the research and insights from James Nestor’s 2020 book,
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art, which examines how nasal breathing can positively affect sleep, stress levels, and overall health. It’s a fascinating read—and one that changed how many people think about something as basic as breathing. ✈️ Sleep & Travel: A Powerful CombinationHere’s where this ties back to
travel. One of the most underestimated benefits of well-designed travel—especially slow travel, river cruising, wellness-focused journeys, and longer stays—is how profoundly it can reset your sleep. Fewer alarms. Less decision fatigue. More daylight. Better routines. I often hear clients say, “I haven’t slept that well in
years—until this trip.” And that’s not accidental. Environment, pace, fresh air, and intentional rest all matter. Whether it’s a simple habit at home—or choosing travel experiences that support true restoration—better sleep is one of the highest-return investments you can make in your health. Sometimes, luxury isn’t about doing more.
It’s about finally getting a good night’s sleep. 😴✨ — Sheila 4. 🌟 Travel With Me: A Journey Home to Newfoundland — Fall 2026Let’s reserve your suite and create unforgettable memories together. ✨ Four Directions of Travel InspirationEach edition of our newsletter brings you four curated travel insights to spark your wanderlust and keep you in the know. Here’s what to expect: In the Spotlight - From client journeys to industry features, see how Lush Life Travel is creating memorable adventures—and making headlines along the way. Virtuoso Travel Inspiration –
Handpicked features from Virtuoso Life, Virtuoso Traveler, or Virtuoso Insight—ideas that transport you. Elevate Your Stay – A weekly look at standout hotels from our preferred partner network, plus the VIP perks you receive when booking with Lush Life Travel. Exclusive Offers – Special promotions and insider access available only through Lush Life Travel, a proud affiliate of Direct Travel and top Virtuoso producer. This section is your one-stop compass for ideas, upgrades, and exclusive opportunities—all designed to help you live your lushest travel life. 5. 🌟 CLIENT SPOTLIGHT: River Cruising Memories & Raves — Continued There’s nothing more rewarding as a travel advisor than hearing how a journey truly landed for a client — and I’m so grateful when they take the time to share. Last
week, we featured Nathalie’s glowing feedback from her first river cruise on the Seine. This week, I’m thrilled to share another kind note from a fellow traveler on that same sailing — Margaret B: “Wonderful host.”
"She has a wonderful, welcoming personality. Always friendly and knowledgeable.”
— Margaret B. (Travel end date: 15 Nov
2025)
Thank you, Marg — your warmth and kind words are so appreciated. It was a joy to host you and the group on such a memorable journey through France. ✨ Your stories
help shape future adventures.
✨ You can read more verified client testimonials or leave one of your own right here:
🔗 Virtuoso Reviews for Sheila Gallant-Halloran 📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey: 🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey: 🔹 Schedule a Consult Sheila Gallant-Halloran | www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca
6. Virtuoso Travel Inspiration
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Enjoy this recent edition of Virtuoso Life, Insider's Guide, and Virtuoso Dispatch—packed with award-winning travel inspiration and insights—all complimentary from me to you. Happy exploring! Food, Wine & City Escapes | | Take a deep dive into the local cuisine scene, its colorful markets, renowned restaurants, celebrated chefs, and rising culinary talents. Whether dining on classic dishes in a sun-soaked taverna in Athens or pairing regional wines on a rooftop terrace overlooking the city, your Virtuoso advisor can craft a multi-course itinerary with authentic culinary
experiences. And the cherry on top: complimentary amenities from suite upgrades to shipboard credits. |
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7.  𝑪𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒖𝒙𝒖𝒓𝒚? 𝑳𝒆𝒕’𝒔 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓
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Unlock Exclusive Perks for Your Luxury Hotel Stay When you check into one of the world’s finest hotels through me (or via my Virtuoso
self-booking site), you’re stepping into a stay filled with VIP perks like:  Daily breakfast for two Room upgrades (when available) Early check-in / late check-out (when available) A US$100+ food & beverage or spa credit (varies by property)  𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐢𝐭 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐜𝐤 & 𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐲? Just self-bookYou can browse and self-book many of my Virtuoso partner hotels (link in first comment) — booking this way still gets you those amazing perks, with no added fee. Browse & Book Hotels Online.  𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐬, 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞: If you’re staying at a Four Seasons, let me handle the booking through my Four Seasons Preferred Partner status so you’ll get even more exclusive access and benefits beyond Virtuoso.  𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚 𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦?If you’d like full VIP treatment—think personalized concierge service, curated experiences, and extra-special touches—just hire me to manage the booking. I’ll take care of every detail so you can simply arrive and enjoy. Whether it’s part of a bigger trip I’m planning for you, or just a quick getaway, let’s make every hotel stay unforgettable. (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.)  𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐕𝐈𝐏 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲.
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This week, we feature La Residence in Franschhoek, South Africa Surrounded by vineyards and plum orchards, with a spectacular mountain backdrop, La Residence enjoys breath-taking views of
the undulating countryside and an atmosphere of complete tranquillity. Step into the Great Hall and be transported to a world of exquisite beauty and grandeur in this luxury Franschhoek retreat. For 2025: - Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining (already included in property rates)
- Guests choice of ONE of the following:
- $100USD equivalent in local currency Resort or Hotel credit applicable toward food & beverage or spa treatments (not combinable, not valid
on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
- $100 Donation to the philanthropic conservation and sustainability projects of The Royal Portfolio Foundation
- 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 a Virtuoso travel advisor. https://www.virtuoso.com/travel/luxury-hotels/6164195/la-residence 8. Exclusive Offers As the owner of Lush Life Travel, a boutique travel agency affiliated with Direct Travel, I’m delighted
to bring you access to exclusive offers through Direct Travel’s status as one of the largest Virtuoso luxury travel network partners. Here are some fantastic opportunities from a few of our favorite travel supplier partners: DESTINATION of the week: Antarctica SMALL OCEAN CRUISE Partner of the week: Sea Cloud RIVER CRUISE Partner of the week: Avalon EXPEDITION CRUISE Partner the week: Lindblad Expeditions 20% off TOUR PARTNER of the
Week: Golf Traveller Ireland
HOTEL of the week: Savoy London
LUXURY experience of the week: Australian Adventures I have some offers and information on all these weekly partners. Click the button to see more.
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. Here’s to creating defining moments and living your lush life through travel!
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