Traveling to Iceland? Packing Tips

For a Windstar cruise to Iceland, pack clothing suitable for variable weather conditions, including layers for warmth and waterproof outerwear. Since Windstar is known for its casual elegance, focus on smart-casual attire for evenings, and comfortable, durable clothing for exploring. Don't forget essential accessories like a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof shoes. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Clothing:

• Base Layers: Thermal leggings and long-sleeved tops are crucial for warmth and moisture-wicking. 

• Mid-Layers: Fleece or sweaters provide insulation. 

• Outerwear: A waterproof jacket and trousers are essential for protection against rain, wind, and potentially snow. 

• Warm Socks: Wool or thermal socks are recommended for keeping your feet dry and warm. 

• Smart-Casual Evening Attire: Windstar is casual but stylish. Pack slacks or non-distressed jeans, collared shirts or blouses, and dress shoes or stylish athletic shoes for evenings, according to Windstar Cruises. Blazers are optional. 

• Accessories: Warm hat, gloves, and a scarf are a must, says a travel blog. 

• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for exploring Iceland's terrain, according to a cruise forum. Consider bringing comfortable sandals or flip-flops for on-board wear, according to Windstar Cruises. 

• Swimsuit: Even in Iceland, some ships have pools or hot tubs. 

Other Essentials:

• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring. 

• Camera: Capture the stunning Icelandic landscapes. 

• Binoculars: Enhance wildlife viewing. 

• Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong. 

• Reusable Shopping Bag: For souvenirs and groceries. 

• Eye Mask: To block out the midnight sun, recommends Saga Travel. 

• Medications: Pack any necessary prescription or over-the-counter medications. 

• Toiletries: Basic toiletries are usually provided, but pack anything specific you need, says Cruise Critic.

Tips for Packing:

• Layers are Key:

  Pack clothing that can be layered to adapt to changing weather conditions. 

• Waterproof is a Must:

  Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so prioritize waterproof clothing and footwear. 

• Comfort is Important:

  Choose clothing and shoes that you are comfortable walking and exploring in for extended periods. 

• Consider Wind Resistance:

  The wind in Iceland can be strong, so ensure your hat and any other accessories stay on buy keeping in mind to purchase appropriate “anchoring” clothing.

Travel with Taste: Explora Journeys Restaurants

When it comes to luxury cruising, Explora Journeys is more than just a voyage—it’s a floating celebration of culinary artistry. Curated with the discernment of a five-star hotel and the soul of a world traveler, Explora Journeys dining is a sensorial passport that takes you from the Amalfi Coast to the spice markets of Morocco, and the fjords of Reykjavik to the vineyards of Bordeaux—all without ever stepping off the ship.

If you’re a gourmet traveler, here’s your insider guide to every restaurant aboard Explora Journeys. This isn’t just about food. It’s about culture. It’s about storytelling. And above all, it’s about savoring the journey.

A Gourmet Guide to All Restaurants

Anthology – The Pinnacle of Gastronomic Art

Let’s begin with the crown jewel of Explora Journeys’ culinary collection: Anthology. Curated under the expert vision of Chef Franck Garanger, the brand’s Head of Culinary, Anthology serves as a stage for rotating Michelin-starred guest chefs to present their personal gastronomic narratives at sea. Each menu is a multi-course journey—artfully composed, globally inspired, and locally rooted.

Imagine langoustine delicately balanced with Amalfi lemon, or a modern Saint-Tropez bouillabaisse reinterpreted through a lens of haute cuisine. These are not just meals; they are immersive culinary stories.

Insider Tip: On select sailings, Chef Garanger invites acclaimed chefs from global hotspots—think Paris, Tokyo, San Sebastián—to collaborate on exclusive, wine-paired tasting experiences. Advance reservations are essential for these limited-seat events.

Fil Rouge – French Elegance with a Global Twist

Fil Rouge is where the elegance of French cuisine meets the flavors of the world. Think: Burgundy escargot meets Peruvian quinoa or a filet de boeuf enriched with Japanese umami. The restaurant lives up to its name, a “red thread” of culinary creativity that weaves its way through every dish.

Design Note: Inspired by modern Parisian brasseries, the interiors are refined but intimate—ideal for romantic dinners while sailing past the cliffs of Santorini.

Med Yacht Club – Mediterranean Magic, Afloat

Inspired by coastal classics from Spain, Italy, France, and Greece, Med Yacht Club is your sunny table by the sea. Tapas, grilled octopus, house-made pasta, and vibrant salads are paired with wines from Provence and coastal Croatia. This venue is as laid-back as a summer afternoon in Mykonos, yet every bite is meticulously executed.

Perfect For: Casual lunches after a morning spa treatment or pre-dinner bites on warm Caribbean evenings.

Sakura – Pan-Asian Sophistication

Sakura transports you to Asia with a curated selection of Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Korean dishes. Signature options include robata-grilled wagyu, sushi with Icelandic langoustine, and fragrant curries that echo Bangkok night markets.

The interiors are sleek and serene, echoing Kyoto minimalism, and the sushi counter is a hotspot for pre-dinner omakase.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the tea ceremony-inspired dessert finale.

Marble & Co. Grill – The New Steakhouse Standard

Forget your average cruise ship grill. Marble & Co. is all about refined carnivorous indulgence. This isn’t just steak—it’s dry-aged perfection, carved tableside and paired with global salts and aged balsamics. There are also luxe vegetarian alternatives like black truffle risotto or grilled artichokes with citrus foam.

Wine Watch: The sommelier-led pairings include rare vintages from Napa, Mendoza, and Tuscany.

Emporium Marketplace – Luxe, Light, and Global

Not your average buffet. Emporium Marketplace features 18 distinct stations with live cooking and regionally-inspired options. From fresh Norwegian gravlax to Moroccan tagines and vegan Mediterranean bowls, there’s something for every palate.

With a view that spills across the open sea, it’s the perfect all-day dining stop between your morning yoga and your afternoon Saint-Tropez shore excursion.

In-Suite Dining – Elevated, Anytime

Whether you’re waking up with sunrise over Reykjavik or craving late-night bites under the stars near the Amalfi Coast, in-suite dining on Explora is a step above. Expect a curated à la carte menu available 24/7, complete with crystal glassware, linen, and freshly prepared dishes that rival any land-based room service.

Chef’s Kitchen – Where Guests Become Gastronomes
More than a restaurant, Chef’s Kitchen is an immersive experience. This is your chance to don an apron, sip Champagne, and learn the secrets behind Explora’s cuisine—from handmade pasta to Nordic curing techniques. It’s part cooking class, part tasting room, and all luxury.

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Why Dining on Explora Journeys Is Different

It’s not just the menus or the Michelin-level chefs—it’s the philosophy. Explora Journeys embraces slow food values, sustainable sourcing, regional integrity, and personalized dining flexibility.

Whether you’re on a transatlantic sailing or hopping between Aegean gems, every dish feels of-the-moment and of-the-place.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are all restaurants included in the fare?
A: Most dining venues are included, though Anthology and Chef’s Kitchen may carry an additional fee due to their exclusivity.

Q: Can dietary preferences be accommodated?
A: Absolutely. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher-style, and allergy-conscious menus are thoughtfully available.

Q: Do I need to make dining reservations?
A: For specialty dining like Sakura or Anthology, reservations are highly recommended. For most others, walk-ins are welcome.

Q: Is there a dress code for dinner?
A: Think elevated resort casual—no jackets required, but chic attire is encouraged.

When You Check in for a Flight Matters—Here’s Why

Savvy travelers never wait until the last minute.

By Katie Jackson

Published on June 7, 2025, Travel & Leisure

Prior to the advent of the Internet, passengers used to have to wait until they were at the airport to check in for their flights. Sounds prehistoric, right? Fortunately, these days, most airlines allow you to check in online, starting at least 24 hours before your flight departs. In fact, they’ll even send you emails and texts reminding you to do so. Still, many passengers who are accustomed to checking in at the airport ignore these alerts. Why check in online so far in advance, especially if you have to visit a counter anyway to check a bag? It turns out there are several reasons you should check in early.

Ideally, you can pick your seat for free when you purchase your flight, but that’s usually not the case if you’re flying coach. If you want to save money and are willing to risk getting a middle seat, your seat will most likely be assigned at check in. In most cases, the earlier you check in, the greater your chances of scoring a window or aisle seat. Some airlines, especially if you’re flying on an international itinerary with different airlines, don’t allow you to choose a seat—even if you’re willing to pay for it—until check in. In that case, the sooner you check in, the sooner you can pick one.

Furthermore, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, airlines are allowed to oversell flights, within reason, to compensate for no-shows. If there aren’t any no-shows, and the plane is overbooked, the airline is allowed to bump passengers to a later flight. One of the criteria they sometimes use to determine who gets bumped is check-in time. If you checked in last, you may be the first to be bumped.

If you check in after the 45-minute cutoff time, you can still board the flight, but your bag probably won’t make it, and there’s a good chance you’ll have to leave it behind. For international flights, you have to check in even earlier—at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure—if you’re checking a bag.

A spokesperson for Delta tells Travel + Leisurethat checking in early in person is also essential if you’re checking a bag. “For most U.S. airports, when traveling domestically, baggage must be checked in at least 45 minutes before scheduled departure time.” If you’re flying domestically without checking a bag, you only have to be checked in 30 minutes prior to departure. Why the extra 15 minutes for passengers who want to check a bag? Before your bag is loaded onto the plane, it has to be sorted and go through TSA screening.

Check-in cutoff times vary by airline, so it’s important to be familiar with your airline’s policy. You should also look up the requirements for the airport you’ll be flying out of. According to the Delta spokesperson, some airports require passengers to check in even earlier than the airlines do. For example,  if you’re flying domestically out of JFK and are checking a bag, you must be checked in at least 60 minutes prior to the departure time. At LGA, meanwhile, the minimum check-in time for flying domestically with a checked bag is 45 minutes.

Even if you selected your seat when you purchased your flight and you’re not checking a bag, it’s wise to check in as early as possible. For starters, this ensures that as soon as you get to the airport, you can just make your way to security. It may also increase your chances of getting upgraded. Some airlines allow you to request upgrades at check in, and date and time of the upgrade request are often a consideration when it comes to determining who gets upgraded. If there’s only room for one more upgrade, and you submit your upgrade request two hours before another passenger with your same status puts in theirs, you may be more likely to get it.

It’s important to note that just because you check in online 24 hours prior to your flight, that doesn’t mean that you can rock up to the airport 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. “Delta recommends arriving at the airport two hours prior to domestic and three hours prior to international flights,” says the Delta spokesperson. To keep lines at the counter down, the airline also prefers that you check in via the Fly Delta app or at delta.com. Most airlines share this sentiment.

To make the process even more seamless, see if your airline offers an automatic check-in option. For example, Southwest allows passengers to add EarlyBird Check-In, starting around $15 each way, when they purchase their flights. If you get EarlyBird Check-In, which is complimentary in Southwest’s “Anytime” class fares, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’ll be automatically checked in 36 hours before departure. Passengers without this perk can’t check in until 24 hours prior to departure. The sooner you check in on Southwest, the sooner you can choose a seat and board the plane, which is helpful when it comes to getting precious overhead bin space. Singapore Airlines, meanwhile, has an auto check-in box under the “Manage Booking” tab that you can tick after you purchase your flight and up to 48 hours before departure. It doesn’t cost extra, and it ensures that you’ll be automatically checked in.

If you do have to check in at the airport at the last minute, don’t stress too much about the long lines at the check-in counters inside. Many airports now have self-serve kiosks where you can check yourself in, so look for those. Major airlines at major airports also have curbside check-in counters where you can check in and drop off any bags you want to check. These curbside counters usually have much shorter lines. It’s a convenient service that ranges from free to a few bucks, plus a recommended per-bag tip.

Top 10 Group Travel Tips for Making Lifelong Friends

There's something magical about traveling with a group-especially when you're exploring a new place with people who start as strangers and leave as lifelong friends. Whether you're joining a culinary tour, a wine-tasting weekend, or a destination retreat, group travel opens doors to connection that solo trips simply can't. But to truly make the most of it, a little intention goes a long way.

Here are 10 tips to help you turn your next group getaway into something more than just a trip-it could be the beginning of lasting friendships.

1. Choose a Trip That Reflects Your Interests

People bond over shared passions. Whether it's pasta-making in Tuscany, tapas hopping in Spain, or market tours in Morocco, choosing a trip with a theme you love makes connection easy and natural. You're not just sightseeing-you're sharing what lights you up.

2. Be Willing to Say Hello First

Even if you're shy, a simple "Where are you from?" or "Is this your first time here?" can open the door to a new connection. Most people in group settings are hoping to make friends-but someone has to go first. Why not you?

Dine with New Friends

It’s amazing what you[‘ll find in common with fellow travelers!

3. Sit with Someone New at Meals

Meals are the heart of a group trip-where stories are shared and friendships simmer. Don't always sit with the same people. Mixing it up not only keeps things interesting, but helps you get to know the whole group.

4. Leave Room for Conversation

You don't have to fill every silence. Sometimes the best connections happen during a quiet walk, a relaxed lunch, or a shared glance at something amazing. Let things unfold naturally-trust that connection doesn't always need to be loud.

5. Bring a Conversation Starter

No, not a cheesy game-just a good question or two in your back pocket. Try:

"What's the best thing you've ever eaten on a trip?"

"Where would you go if money (and time) were no object?"

People light up when they get to talk about things they love.

6. Say Yes to Optional Activities

When there's free time or optional add-ons, saying "yes" can open the door to unexpected friendships. Smaller group settings can lead to deeper chats and shared laughs.

7. Be Curious About Others

Everyone on the trip has a story-what brought them here, what they love about travel, what they're hoping to find. Ask. Listen. Be genuinely curious. That's where the gold is.

8. Don't Force It

You won't click with everyone, and that's okay. Let the connections that feel natural deepen. Sometimes the most unlikely travel companions end up being the ones you stay in touch with for years.

9. Take a Group Photo (or 10)

Photos create a shared history. Be the one to say, "Let's get a picture!" and offer to share it. It's a small gesture that says, we were here-and we did this together.

10. Keep in Touch After You Get Home

If you connected with someone, don't let the distance break it. Exchange contact info, connect on social media, or send a quick message after the trip. "That dinner in the vineyard was one of my favorite memories-hope we get to travel together again someday."

Culinary Latitudes | Rhonda Macier Lathen

Oceania CruiseS Packing Recommendations

You’ve booked your cruise and now it’s time to start thinking about what to pack. A little advance planning can go a long way to ensure a carefree voyage.

To help guide your packing, here is our Destination Specialists’ list of what to pack for your cruise. Note that it’s helpful to have booked your excursions beforehand so you have an idea of what you’ll be doing ashore.

Women’s Packing List

As you may know, Oceania Cruises has an elegant casual dress code. This simply means you should pack:

• Cocktail dresses or skirts and blouses for The Grand Dining Room and specialty restaurants • Blouses and nice shorts for evenings at Terrace Café • Sundresses – great for transitioning from day to evening with a wrap or cardigan • Casual shirts and tank tops to pair with shorts, capris or comfortable pants for excursions • A light cardigan, pashmina or wrap, especially for dining and ashore • Small clutch or crossbody bag

Men’s Packing List

Packing for men is even easier. Essentials include:

• Dress pants, collared shirts and a sports jacket or blazer for The Grand Dining Room and specialty restaurants • Khakis or nice shorts with cotton shirts for Terrace Café • Casual shorts or pants and lightweight tops for excursions – quick-drying shirts are great for the tropics

Packing List for Everyone

• A bathing suit and quick-drying cover-up (bring more than one if you plan on swimming a lot) • Sleepwear • Undergarments and socks • Variety of shoes: dress shoes, comfortable walking shoes, sneakers and sandals • Reef sandals or water shoes for the Caribbean and South Pacific • Light jacket or fleece • A waterproof jacket for Alaska and regions with changeable climates • Sun hat or visor • Sunglasses • Sunscreen • Workout attire • Daypack or comfortable tote for excursions ashore • Dry pack if planning on boating excursions or water activities • Mosquito repellent for tropical destinations

Packing Essentials
These items may seem difficult to forget, but here are a few essential things that travelers sometimes leave behind.

• Passport • Driver’s License • Cash • Visas, if necessary • Credit cards – be sure to notify them of your travels • Cash – small bills are helpful • Copies of emergency numbers • Copies of important documents such as the front page of your passport, airline tickets and hotel confirmations • Medications • Toiletries • Necessary technology, like your phone and tablet • Charging cables for all devices • Portable phone charger • Camera, extra SD card and batteries

Travel with taste,

Rhonda

Semi-Retired and Full-Time Travel

Being semi-retired is like having a golden ticket to the travel playground of life. No more begging the boss for time off or cramming adventures into long weekends. With a flexible schedule and fewer professional strings attached, you can jet off to Tuscany on a Tuesday or road trip through the Rockies just because it’s Wednesday. Off-season travel becomes your secret weapon—cheaper prices, smaller crowds, and way more elbow room at that Parisian café you’ve always wanted to visit.

Let’s talk money—but in a good way. Semi-retirement often means you’ve got a reliable trickle of income (hello, part-time gig, pension, or passive income!) plus fewer big expenses draining your wallet. That means more room in the budget for experiences over things. Want to splurge on a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia or sip cocktails on a Greek island? Go for it. You’ve earned this, and now you actually have the time to enjoy it.

And here's the really cool part: you can blend work and travel if you want to. Thanks to laptops and Wi-Fi, that seaside café in Portugal can double as your part-time office. Knock out a few emails, then spend the afternoon exploring cobblestone streets or relaxing at a vineyard. Working just enough to keep your mind sharp—and your travel fund topped up—makes the whole experience feel more like a lifestyle and less like a vacation countdown.

Best of all, your time is finally your own. No school schedules, no board meetings, no frantic mornings. Just you, your suitcase, and the open road (or sky, or sea). Whether you’re chasing the solar eclipse, hiking Italy’s remote terrain or just chilling in a hammock somewhere warm, semi-retirement makes travel not just possible—but practically irresistible.

Travel with taste,

Rhonda

A Majestic Journey Over Trollstigen

Trollstigen, or trollstigvegen, is a scenic mountain road in Norway that's part of Norwegian County Road 63. It's considered one of Norway's most famous and well-visited attractions, and is known for its dramatic views and adventurous experiences. The road begins just outside Åndalsnes in northwest Norway and winds up the mountains, across a fjord, and down to Geiranger, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The route is 35 miles long, but the section of hairpin bends known as Trollstigen is only a few miles long.

The road offers views of steep mountainsides, waterfalls, fjords, valleys, and untouched nature. It also passes by old farms and small rivers, and includes 11 turns that go over the Stigefossen waterfall. The name Trollstigen plays on the area's reputation in Norwegian folklore, where trolls are said to be supernatural creatures that can help or hinder humans.

If this sounds intriguing please join us on our adventure to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark coming July of 2025. Click here to learn more!

Culinary Latitudes visits Scandinavia

Cuisine for all tastes!

Memorable dining begins with open-seating, as it allows you to dine when you are ready and with whomever you choose. Regardless of which of our restaurants you select, there are no dining surcharges. Enjoy Toscana’s authentic Italian dishes, Polo Grill’s steakhouse fare, Continental cuisine in the Grand Dining Room, and made-to-order American favorites in the Terrace Café. You may also indulge in delicate pastries and freshly made sandwiches along with illy® specialty coffees at Baristas.

Please call 303-919-8627 or email rhonda@culinarylatitudes.com to book your Scandinavia ocean cruise today. We have limited availability within our group rates.

Travel with taste,

Rhonda