Hi, I'm Carla. I'm a Virtuoso travel advisor based in Tampa, Florida. I absolutely love and enjoy research and planning travel for people who are in seek of a more personalized travel experience. Off-the-beaten path experiences, private touring, and hidden gems are all a part of what I do! My passion is planning first-time trips to Italy and working with clients who appreciate travel as an essential life experience. I help manage the finer details to avoid hiccups along the way. I'm with you as your advocate from the planning stages, during travel, and until you walk back through your front door. All you need to do is pack! Subscribe to my monthly travel newsletter to discover wanderlust, learn about destinations worldwide, hear about featured tours and cruises and maybe even a little about me!
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Discover Wanderlust Travel | February 2025 Newsletter
Published 7 months ago • 4 min read
Monthly Travel E-Newsletter February 2025
Hi Reader!
Last month, I had my first experience on a Virgin Voyages sailing. Despite uncooperative weather (we're talking 60's, cloudy, and winds out of Miami), I had an amazing time and truly enjoyed the ship and what it had to offer. Unfortunately, a stop to their private beach club in Bimini was axed due to the water currents and winds, but the sunshine decided to peak through and make an appearance my final day onboard ☀️.
Highlights of my cruise included:
Cuisine- Many levels above your mainstream cruise lines. No buffets and blah food to be found onboard. Food is all fresh and pretty much made to order with less waste and sustainability like I've never seen before. I plan to share some food pics on socials a little later.
Entertainment - Unique shows with a "theatre" room that transforms for each show. I enjoyed the level of crowd interaction and appreciated the talent and passion of their cast of entertainers. Cruise staff was also very pleasant and helpful all around.
Spa - I spent three hours relaxing and rotating through their tepid water pool, cold plunge, jacuzzi, dry sauna, heated beds, steam room, salt room, and mud room. The cost was $59 for a port day or $79 for a sea day with the option purchase an unlimited pass.
Atmosphere - There was no cruise director barking at you over the speakers every hour. The design of the ship was simply put - sexy and appealing. And, did I mention no kids? High-energy and late nights made me feel like I was in college all over again. Young at heart? You'll love it!
Please don't hestiate to reach out to me if you'd like to know more about this cruise line. It is very unique and while not for everyone, it was certainly an experience I can't wait to do again - hopefully with better weather!
Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavík, Iceland, is Iceland's vibrant capital. It offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and modern architecture, making it a must-visit destination for all travelers. Here are the top three attractions you shouldn't miss:
Hallgrímskirkja Church This iconic white-concrete church dominates Reykjavík’s skyline and is visible from up to 20 km away. An elevator ride up its 74.5-meter-high tower provides an unmissable panoramic view of the city. The church’s radical design, inspired by Icelandic nature, makes it a must-see landmark.
Hallgrímskirkja Church
Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre Opened in 2011, Harpa is a shimmering example of modern Scandinavian architecture, with a striking glass exterior that often reflects the waters of the harbor front. It hosts a variety of concerts and cultural events, making it a cultural hub in the city.
Harpa Concert Hall & Conference Center
Perlan (The Pearl) Perlan is a landmark and museum situated on top of Öskjuhlíð hill. It features a glass dome resting on six water tanks and houses a planetarium, an ice cave, and interactive exhibits about Icelandic nature. The 360° observation deck offers stunning views over Reykjavík and its surroundings.
Pearlan
Reykjavík’s unique blend of historical significance, architectural marvels, and natural beauty ensures that every traveler finds something to admire. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a nature lover, the city offers a rich tapestry of experiences that make it an essential stop on any Icelandic adventure.
Featured Tour:
Iceland Encounter's Iceland in a Nutshell (7 days)
This tour with Iceland Encounter hits many of Iceland's geographical wonders in just 7 days! All of the details can be found here.
Experience the essence of Iceland with this seven-day tour, featuring two nights in Reykjavik and four nights in the countryside. Available year-round, the itinerary offers a variety of optional activities to enhance your adventure.
Note that in Iceland, the sun doesn’t set from May 21st to July 21st but there are many possible activities under the midnight sun: hiking, diving, golfing, fishing, snorkeling, and more.
Highlights include:
Golden Circle Tour: Explore Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
South Coast Exploration: Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the village of Vík.
Glacier Lagoon:Witness the stunning Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Diamond Beach.
Reykjavik: Discover the vibrant capital city with its rich culture and cuisine.
This tour provides a comprehensive Icelandic experience, blending natural wonders with cultural insights.
What's Included In The Tour:
Airport transfers
Accommodations for six nights including breakfast
Expert driver-guide and luxury 4x4 vehicle for five days
Picnic lunch on day 3
Admission to the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa
Contact me for dates and pricing on this game-changing introduction to Iceland tour!
Travel Industry News & Updates
🚢
Celebrity Cruises is launching into European River Cruising in 2027
Reservations will open later in 2025 for sailings on the Danube and the Rhine
Carry a scarf or shawl: A lightweight scarf has multiple uses—covering shoulders in religious sites, staying warm on flights, or as a blanket during chilly evenings. It’s a versatile travel accessory.
Know a friend who loves to travel and appreciates the value a travel advisor can bring - one who is all in to the details, provides top-tier service, and can offer amenities not available when booking direct?
Hi, I'm Carla. I'm a Virtuoso travel advisor based in Tampa, Florida. I absolutely love and enjoy research and planning travel for people who are in seek of a more personalized travel experience. Off-the-beaten path experiences, private touring, and hidden gems are all a part of what I do! My passion is planning first-time trips to Italy and working with clients who appreciate travel as an essential life experience. I help manage the finer details to avoid hiccups along the way. I'm with you as your advocate from the planning stages, during travel, and until you walk back through your front door. All you need to do is pack! Subscribe to my monthly travel newsletter to discover wanderlust, learn about destinations worldwide, hear about featured tours and cruises and maybe even a little about me!
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