🍁 Montréal Moments — Food, Music, and Gratitude Along the St. Lawrence

This Thanksgiving weekend, I’ve been reflecting on gratitude — for meaningful connections, unforgettable meals, and the beautiful intersections of travel, art, and love that make life so rich.

A few nights ago, I was in Montréal for a truly special celebration — a James Beard Foundation dinner marking 10 years of partnership between Windstar Cruises and the James Beard Foundation. Held at the elegant Restaurant Graziella, Chefs Amy Brandwein and Graziella Battista crafted a menu that was both bold and heartfelt — from limoncello oysters to coffee-balsamic lamb. Each dish told a story of place and purpose, reminding me that travel isn’t just about where we go, but what we taste, share, and feel along the way. 🍋✨

It was also a preview of what’s to come: next September 2026, I’ll be hosting a group with Windstar Cruises sailing from Montréal to St. Pierre — a uniquely special journey that explores the best of Canada’s East Coast before ending in France (yes, St. Pierre-et-Miquelon is technically part of France! 🇫🇷). No U.S. ports, just stunning scenery, local flavours, and that Windstar sense of understated luxury and discovery. 🇨🇦⚓

While in Montréal, I also took time to stand before the Leonard Cohen mural, gazing up at the poet who continues to speak to Canada — and to the world. For so many of us, Cohen isn’t just a musician; he’s a reminder of the beauty and fragility of being human. His words — “There is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in” — felt especially poignant this week, as I reflected on gratitude, imperfection, and how light still finds us, even in loss.

This weekend is particularly meaningful for me personally — Bill and I are celebrating our 39th wedding anniversary, and our two daughters are home from Toronto for the holiday. 💙 Nearly four decades of love, laughter, and a fair few passport stamps later, I’m reminded that the greatest journeys are sometimes the ones we take together — across continents or across the dinner table. Having the four of us together again makes this Thanksgiving even sweeter.

As I look ahead to the seasons to come — from festive river cruises in Europe to next fall’s Windstar sailing — I’m feeling thankful for this community of travelers who share my belief that life’s most beautiful moments come when we slow down, connect, and truly live our lush life.

🍁 Happy Thanksgiving from my heart to yours — may your table, your travels, and your memories be full this season.

✨ Join Me on the Windstar Montréal → St. Pierre Voyage (September 2026)
→ Learn More and Register Your Interest

🎶 Explore Windstar’s Culinary & Canadian Sailings
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📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey:

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Sheila Gallant-Halloran | www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca

🌍 This Week’s 4 Travel Corners

Each 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 - A Taste of Christmas — and a Toast to the New Year!

Europe’s rivers in late November and December sparkle with something special — even when the famous markets start to close, the spirit of the season still lingers in the air. Think cobblestone streets strung with lights, cozy cafés serving mulled wine, and the scent of roasted chestnuts drifting from town squares. 🎄✨

While most Christmas Markets cruises are nearly sold out for 2025, AmaWaterways’ “Festive Delights” sailings still capture the magic of the holidays — and many of them are part of Ama’s Anniversary Sale, offering up to C$3,000 per stateroom savings.

✨ Two sailings that bring you a “Taste of Christmas”:

Melodies of the Danube – Taste of Christmas (2025)
Sail between Budapest and Vilshofen, where twinkling lights and festive flavors linger along the Danube.

Captivating Rhine – Taste of Christmas (2025)
From Amsterdam to Basel, enjoy castle views and cocoa by candlelight — with just the right hint of holiday charm.

🎆 Or celebrate New Year’s in Europe!
Did you know you can ring in 2026 on the river? 🍾
Select New Year’s cruises come with up to two complimentary extra nights in Europe — a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay and an additional night onboard to welcome the New Year, meals and transfers included.
➡️ View New Year’s Departures

Whether it’s sipping glühwein in Vienna, toasting champagne under fireworks in Basel, or strolling twinkling riverside streets in Germany, these winter sailings are pure magic — with less crowding, more intimacy, and that signature Ama warmth.

And if your heart is set on the true Christmas Market experience, the 2026 sailings are your best bet:

Christmas Markets on the Rhine (2026)

Iconic Christmas Markets (2026)

🎥 Watch for a laugh:
👉 What happens when you book the wrong cabin on a river cruise? 🐙💦

Let’s just say… fish are NOT included.

When you book with me, you get the right cabin — balcony views, castles floating by, and wine in hand. 🍷🏰✨

👉 Which would YOU pick for your dream river cruise: Balcony Cabin or Suite? Hit reply and tell me — I love hearing your take!

🍷 River cruising isn’t just about the destinations — it’s about the feeling. A slower pace, a cozier rhythm, and time to simply savor it all.

2. Adventure Travel -  Expedition Cruising Myths — Myth#2 — “It’s Too Dangerous”

Continuing our myth-busting series on expedition cruising…

Lots of people hesitate because they think these journeys are risky or extreme. But I’m here to tell you — they’re not. Watch this short clip to see what true expedition cruising really looks like:
👉 YouTube Short: Myth 2 – It’s Too Dangerous

MYTH 2: “Expedition cruising is too dangerous.”
TRUTH: These ships are engineered for safety, not recklessness.

Modern polar-class vessels come equipped with:

Reinforced hulls and stabilizers

Advanced navigation and satellite systems

Expert crews trained in polar operations and every eventuality

You won’t be clinging to ropes in a storm — you’ll be enjoying hot cocoa in the salon, watching icebergs drift by your window.

Adventure doesn’t mean peril — it means purposeful exploration, respect for nature, and the confidence to step into wildness with eyes wide open.

Would you take the leap into the wild — safely, knowingly — with me? 🐧❄️

Remember:

🚫 Myth #1: Expedition Cruising is Too Adventurous

3. Wellness Corner - 💆 Wellness & Sustainability Corner: Slowing Down, Savoring the Moments That Matter

As we head into Canadian Thanksgiving weekend, I’ve been reflecting on what it truly means to pause — to give thanks, to be present, and to travel not just for sights, but for soul.

In Prague, that might mean standing before the John Lennon Wall, softly singing Imagine with strangers as candles flicker below the graffiti. Or sitting near the Astronomical Clock, watching its tiny figures whirl and dance as you sip a cold Czech beer. Maybe it’s wandering a little further toward the Charles Bridge, hands wrapped around a mug of chocolate beer or magnificent hot chocolate, watching the statues glow golden in the late afternoon light.

💙 This week has also been one of reflection and remembrance. I’ve been holding space for two losses — one personal, one distant, yet both deeply felt.

💙 Remembering my dear friend, Leigh Arredondo, taken from us far too soon. I’ll always treasure the time we shared together in Australia — the laughter, the adventure, and the joy he brought into every moment. Sending love to his family, and to our extended work family around the globe. You’ll be deeply missed, Leigh. 🌍💙

And then, the loss of Diane Keaton — someone I never knew personally, yet whose authenticity, humour, and effortless elegance inspired so many of us. Two people — one a friend, one an icon — who both reminded me of the same truth: that life and travel are about noticing, feeling, and fully living each fleeting moment.

Whether it’s pulling a van off the side of the road in Queensland to gaze at the Southern Cross as I did with Leigh, or embracing my Diane Keaton coastal-chic style and Nancy Meyers “Something’s Gotta Give” vibe, I’m reminded to seek beauty in the small and simple.

As I give thanks this weekend, I’m grateful for friendship, memory, and the countless little joys we find along the journey — on the road, on the river, and in life itself.

🍁 Happy Thanksgiving — may we all slow down, savor deeply, and live with wonder in every season. ✨

💙 Where will your next meaningful moment take you?
Let’s design a journey that helps you reconnect — with the world, and with yourself.
👉 Start Your Next Chapter with Lush Life Travel

4.  🌟 Travel With Me: A Journey Home to Newfoundland — Fall 2026

I don’t often get to invite clients to travel with me to my home province of Newfoundland — but this is that special chance. This itinerary is uniquely meaningful to me: it takes us along Canada’s Atlantic coast, right to the rugged cliffs and colourful harbours where I grew up. Every stop tells a story, and I’d love to share those stories with you.

And here’s the twist: while this cruise stays entirely in Canadian waters, it still whisks us to France. With a stop in St. Pierre & Miquelon, you’ll step into a slice of French culture without ever crossing the Atlantic. (A rare treat, since maritime laws normally require a U.S. port on Canadian sailings.)

We’ll be sailing on Windstar’s boutique-style Star Pride, where the atmosphere feels more like traveling with friends than traditional cruising. On board, you’ll enjoy:
✨ Small-ship intimacy & personalized service
✨ Destination-inspired gourmet dining
✨ Open decks perfect for whale watching
✨ A warm, welcoming atmosphere

🌊 Itinerary Highlights

Montreal – vibrant culture & historic Old Port

Saguenay – dramatic fjords carved by ice

Newfoundland – wild coastlines & fishing villages

St. Pierre & Miquelon – authentic French charm right next door

Golden autumn landscapes at every turn

📅 View full itinerary & group pricing here:
Windstar Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure – Details & Booking

(If that link gives you trouble, simply copy & paste into your browser. My group receives an exclusive 5% discount on this sailing.)

➡ More details from Windstar here: Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure Itinerary

There are only 3 Balcony Suites left (and a few Star Balcony Suites too). 

Space is limited, and demand is high for this one-time voyage. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Canada’s Atlantic coast in style, this is the year to make it happen.

Let’s reserve your suite and create unforgettable memories together. 

✨ Four Directions of Travel Inspiration

Each 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.   Spotlight: Playing with AI

Two weeks ago, I was playing around on a new AI tool… and wow.

What started as “just testing” turned into rabbit holes of creativity, surprise, and a few laugh-out-loud moments.

 

I even uploaded a picture of me at a wellness resort and asked it to turn it into a professional headshot — and it did (see original vs. AI version ).

Curious: Have you tried out a new AI recently — and did it surprise you?

#asksheila sheila@lushlife.ca
 

Subscribe to my youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@SheilaGallantHalloran

📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey:

🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey:

🔹 Schedule a Consult

Sheila Gallant-Halloran | www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca

Additional info: exclusive perks 

VIP’ing You at My Preferred Hotel Programs and 

💡 Still Wondering Why Book with an Advisor?

This week, we feature:  Hotel Sacher Wien Vienna

As the only privately owned and family-run luxury hotel in the city, the iconic Hotel Sacher Wien is a Viennese landmark, set opposite the Vienna State Opera. The unique balance of maintained traditions and contemporary elements provides an authentic sense of place. The refurbished rooms all feature individually collected antiques and original oil paintings, making it one of Austria’s landmarks and largest private art collections. Home of the Original Sacher-Torte, the famous Café Sacher is where guests can experience this culinary history or opt for the no-calories version at the Sacher Boutique Spa when it is “Time to Chocolate.”

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: Quebec City

SMALL OCEAN CRUISE Partner of the week: VIRGIN VOYAGES 

RIVER CRUISE Partner of the week: AMA Watereways

EXPEDITION CRUISE Partner of the week: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC-LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS - Canadian OFFER 20% off Select

TOUR PARTNER of the Week: EXODUS ADVENTURE TRAVELS 
COSTA RICA 
HOTEL of the week: LA VALISE TULUM -TULUM, MEXICO 
LUXURY experience of the week: Four Season Yachts

I have some offers and information on all these weekly partners. Click the button to see more. 

📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey:

🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey:

🔹 Schedule a Consult

Sheila Gallant-Halloran | www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca