India Tour for Women: Varanasi Extension
Exciting announcement!
We have added an optional extension tour of Varanasi, the oldest living city in the world, for our India trip for women this September 2024.
The dates for the main tour: September 16-27, 2024.
The date for the Varanasi tour (2 days/1 night): September 27-28, 2024.
Check out our full itinerary here: India women’s tour.
India visas for Canadians resumes
UPDATE December 2, 2023: Tourist visas for Canadians travelling to India has now resumed.
Good news for Canadians planning to travel to India. The Indian government has resumed visa services for travel to the country. However, not all visa categories are available, such as tourist.
Following is copy from the news release issued yesterday by the High Commission of India in Ottawa:
October 25, 2023 – Ottawa, Canada
News Release
The High Commission of India in Ottawa, Canada and its Consulates General in Toronto and Vancouver were constrained to suspend visa services temporarily because of safety and security considerations.
After a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some recent Canadian measures in this regard, it has been decided to resume visa services for the following categories with effect from October 26, 2023:
(a) Entry Visa
(b) Business Visa
(c) Medical Visa, and (d) Conference Visa
Emergency situations will continue to be addressed by the High Commission and the Consulates General as it is being done currently.
Further decisions, as appropriate, would be intimated based on continuing evaluation of the situation.
As well, following are the links with information related to each of the categories for applicants:
Entry Visa: https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/visa-entry/
Business Visa: https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/business-visa/
Medical Visa: https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/medical-visa/
Conference Visa: https://www.cgitoronto.gov.in/page/conference-visa/
Please note, however, what is not included is the tourist visa for Canadians to travel to India as tourists. I hope this resumes soon.
Opinion: Canada-India Crisis
A significant story broke this week regarding Canada’s relationship with India over the alleged assassination of a Canadian Sikh citizen by forces connected to the Indian government. Since I am planning a group trip for women to India next September 2024, I wanted to address it briefly.
At present, the relationship between nations has deteriorated with the Canadians downsizing the number of diplomats in India and India putting a freeze on tourist visas that are required for travel to the country. India has also advised against travel to Canada for the time-being.
While I am not an expert on the politics, I wanted to address this due to my upcoming trip for those who follow my blog and the trip details. I am aware of the situation and, while this is terribly unfortunate, I hope it will be resolved soon.
In the meantime, I will be watching to see how this event impacts travel for Canadians to India.
Lotus Temple, Delhi, India, Shannon Skinner
Love and wisdom,
Shannon
u
Round-Up: Wellness Travel
The beginning of September for many in the northern hemisphere is synonymous with new beginnings in life, whether it is business, career, a relationship or lifestyle change. It is also the time many of us start planning trips for the following year. Since Covid, there has been a growing interest in wellness travel — focussing on one’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. From spas to pilgrimages to retreats, or just relaxing getaways, people are looking to travel as a great life transformer – or simply a means of self-care.
Hotel Des Bains is a luxury thermal spa and resort located in Saillon, Switzerland. Saillon is the most beautiful village in Switzerland. I was a guest and it was superb.
I have curated a round-up of few helpful articles on wellness travel — my “top 5” list — highlighting relevant wellness travel news and destination/tourism ideas to consider as you plan for 2024. They are gathered from a range of media sources, and all offer some fabulous inspiration to find your next spa, retreat, spiritual pilgrimage or a relaxing holiday to unwind, destress, or focus on self-development.
The Atmantan Wellness Resort is located near Mumbai, India, where I recently was a guest, also superb.
Top 5 List: Wellness Travel Articles for Destination Ideas and Inspiration
1. National Geographic
The rise of wellness travel, from rewilding to yoga and pilgrimages
2. Euronews
Wellness tourism is booming but what’s behind the trend?
3. Harper’s Bazaar
The great reset: the best wellness retreats in Europe
4. Vogue
The Best Spas in Europe that Mix Travel With Pure Relaxation
5. AFAR
What Your Wellness Vacation Will Look Like in 2023
A night shot at Hotel Des Bains in Saillon, Switzerland.
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Travel to India with me in 2024
Consider an India Yoga Retreat to Deepen Your Practice
Atmantan Wellness Resort in India: My Review
Shannon Skinner is an award-winning inspirational TV host/producer of ExtraodinaryWomenTV.com, radio host, international speaker, public relations consultant and writer covering travel, wellness and wine.
Consider an India retreat to deepen your yoga practice
The luxury Atmantan Wellness Resort near Mumbai, which offers yoga sessions in its wellness packages.
The first time I took a yoga class, I was in my twenties and working in the high-octane field of public relations, and in need of a way to relax and calm my mind. At that time (before the Lululemon craze), yoga was not popular or cool as it is now. The class was held in a school gymnasium and it must have worked because I fell asleep, which was a miracle for a 20-something body that was operating on little sleep and gallons of caffeine.
Since, yoga has increased in popularity across the country, attracting people from all walks of life, and I continue to learn more about this ancient Indian tradition, which is much more than just poses.
The benefits of yoga are well-known, including increased flexibility, muscle strength, improved energy and vitality, weight management, cardio health, reduced stress, among others. Interestingly, a recent study shows that meditation and yoga practice are linked to reduced volume in the brain region that is tied to negative emotions. Probably the most important reason, it can help us love ourselves a little bit more.
And so, if you are looking to start and/or maintain a daily practice, or deepen your practice, or are a beginner, one of the best ways is to immerse yourself in study and practice. Or consider including it in a wellness retreat. The ideal place to learn is where it all began: India.
There are many yoga academies and ashrams across India, though a number of them rank higher than others. Some offer retreats and others are geared to teacher training (note: in Sanskrit, ashram means “a place where everything happens effortlessly”). I have visited many of them in Pune and Lonavala, Maharashtra.
Here are some of the most popular yoga institutions in India. The ones I have visited have photos included.
List of most popular yoga institutions in India
Created by B.K.S. Iyengar, considered to be the founder of modern yoga, this renowned institute attracts yoga students from around the world who are interest in training.
The outside of Iyengar Yoga Institute. Indoors photos were restricted or forbidden.
Iyengar
Founded in 1946 by the legendary Mahatma Gandhi, it is a unique example of the field of naturopathy, which brings people from across India and internationally for its holistic approach to healing, which includes daily yoga.
Yoga room at the Nisargaopchar Ashram
Lovely views at the Nisargaopchar Ashram during the monsoon
A research institution and yoga college that teaches the Ashtanga yoga of Patanjali, the pioneer who laid down the foundation for traditional yoga.
Kaivalyadhama Ashram
Kaivalyadhama Ashram enterance
Founded by legendary Swami Parthasarathy. Located 8 km from Lonavala and nestled in the hills of Malavli, the academy is set on a secluded, modern campus, providing an ideal atmosphere for peace, contemplation and reflection; and has a number of amenities.
The Vedanta Academy campus
The Vedanta Academy accommodations
One of India’s most popular ashrams, it was founded by renowned spiritual leader, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. It is a volunteer-based organization that also undertakes various initiatives geared to uplifting and enhancing quality of life internationally.
Founded by Sadhguru, it was designed to create an inclusive culture for global harmony and progress, as well as a centre working on literacy and conservation. Its “inner transformation” programs for physical, mental and spiritual wellness have been recognized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UNESC).
Located in a 14th-century fort, the center integrates several approaches to personal development based on yogic teachings. Founded by Sri Swami Satyananda Saraswati, the yoga ashram (Ganga Darshan Yogashram) follows modern-day “gurukul lifestyle,” and the school offers yogic teachings. The center also guides yoga projects and medical research in association with corporations and government.
Set in Mysore, the city of palaces and fountains, this institute was founded by Sri Krishna Pattabhi Jois and offers yoga courses ranging from one month to six months, and intensive Ashtanga yoga classes year-round. Classes are also offered in Sanskrit.
The Yoga Institute in Goa is located on Chorâo Island, the largest of the 17 islands of Goa, along the Mandovi river. This paradise for bird-watchers and nature lovers is less than a 30 minute drive from the state capital city of Panjim and a 15 minute ferry ride through scenic surroundings.
Although there are a plethora of places where you can learn and practice yoga in India, such as spas and wellness resorts like the luxury Atmantan Wellness Resort near Mumbai, as well as private retreats, these are certainly amongst the best to help you deepen your yoga practice.
Atmantan Wellness Resort lobby. It is not officially listed in this list because it is not a learning/teaching institution, though I stayed here and it offers fabulous wellness packages.
Shannon Skinner is an award-winning inspirational creator/host of ExtraordinaryWomenTV.com, author, radio host, speaker and writer covering travel, wellness and wine.
Lotus Temple: India’s finest modern architecture
The Lotus Temple is one of my favourite attractions in Delhi. It is incredibly beautiful architecture, probably the most interesting house of worship in the modern era anywhere, and one of the most visited places on earth.
I had the opportunity to visit the temple on one of my trips to Delhi. I recently was going through my photos and panicked because I could not find my photos of Lotus Temple. Yesterday, I found them and I was inspired to post them on social media and decided to write about it.
Here are some fun facts about the Lotus Temple:
Walking through the gardens along the red sandstone walkway to get to the Lotus Temple
FUN FACTS:
• The Lotus Temple is famous for its distinct flower shape. It was designed to reflect the beauty and symmetry of the lotus flower.
• The lotus flower is an important symbol in Eastern and Indian faiths, including Bahá’i, Hinduism and Buddhism.
Truly magnificent architecture
• Lotus Temple is a Bahá’i faith house of worship. Bahá’i is a religious movement originating in Iran in the 19th century that emphasizes the spiritual unity of humankind.
• The design represents the “Oneness of God, the Oneness of all Religions and the Oneness of Mankind,” which are the guiding tenets of Baha’i faith.
• It is a popular attraction in Delhi, with more than 3.5 million visitors per year.
• It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Anyone can visit Lotus Temple. It is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds. Be mindful, though, of the rules. Be sure to wear conservative clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, which is not uncommon for many places of worship around the world.
There are 9 reflecting pools of water, symbolizing the lotus leaves
• The building has 27 free-standing marble-clad petals arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides. There are nine doors opening into a central hall with high ceilings. This is the space where people gather and music is played. There are 9 reflecting pools of water, symbolizing the lotus leaves.
• All around the temple are walkways made of red sandstone with beautiful curved balustrades, bridges and stairs that surround the nine reflecting pools.
• It won many architecture awards and is considered an incredible architectural achievement.
• The Lotus Temple has a Canada connection. The architect is Farinorz Sahba, an Iranian. Though he currently lives in the United States, he once lived in Canada prior to moving to the U.S.
• Like many places of worship around the world, visitors are required to take shoes off before entering.
Walking through the vast property to get to the temple. This is why I suggest taking a bottle of water with you.
TIPS:
• You will be given a bag to hold your shoes. Beware the ground is hot on bare feet. Since you must remove your shoes, take a pair of socks.
• Take a bottle of water with you. It can be very hot while walking around the gardens and waiting in line to get in.
Shannon Skinner is an award-winning inspirational TV talkshow host and producer, speaker and writer covering luxury travel, wine and wellness for women.
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Shannon’s Travel Bag articles on India
Travel to India with Shannon in 2024
If you follow me on my blog or in the media, you probably know that India is a destination that has captured my heart. India continues to beckon me to further explore its geography, culture, people and cuisine, and I would love to share this beautiful and fascinating country with you.
I am planning to organize a trip to India for a group of women in September 2024.
More details will be announced soon.
If you are interested in finding out more, email me at: info (@) shannonskinner.com.
Stay tuned!
In the meantime, here are a few photos from past trips to inspire you.
Much love xo
Shannon
Amer Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan
Amer Fort in Jaipur, Rajasthan
The City Palace in Jaipur, Rajasthan
Me at The City Palace, Jaipur, India
My favourite boutique hotel, Samode Haveli
Shannon Skinner is an award-winning inspirational TV host/producer, writer and speaker, covering travel, wellness and wine for women.
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Check out some of my past posts about my travels to India.
Packing tips for a Nordic Cruise on the Baltic Sea
A Scandinavian cruise on the Baltic Sea is calling you and now all you need to do is pack. Having recently returned from a summer Nordic cruise with Viking (Viking Homelands itinerary) on the Baltic Sea, I have some tips to help you pack wisely and get the most out of your experience.
Pulling into port in Warnemünde, Germany. It is windy on the Baltic Sea.
Your wardrobe will ultimately vary depending on the season you are travelling, but regardless, many of these tips cover all seasons.
Northern Europe is generally cooler than other parts of Europe and the temperatures will change and may greatly vary. Therefore, you will need to pack for a range of weather systems. We had rainy days that were chilly, and days that were sunny and warm. The temperature ranged from 16C to 23C.
If you think this packing job is going to be tricky, just imagine what the original Vikings had to deal with.
I’ll share what I packed for my summer Nordic cruise. These are for your consideration (I am not selling anything and have no affiliate links).
Wardrobe Tips for a Summer Nordic Cruise:
1. Plan and prepare for the weather: check the weather forecast prior to leaving for your cruise and plan for each day accordingly. It rained on a couple of days on our cruise and was sunny and warm on other days.
2. Layering is key: pack long sleeves, short sleeves, pants, shorts – all good considerations. I wore mostly long sleeves on my cruise and only one day wore a short-sleeved top because it was otherwise too chilly. Pack a light sweater and a shirt to wear underneath it. I have a long-sleeve black top made from breathable bamboo material (I have a few of them) that I travel a lot with because it is so versatile and comfortable.
3. Jackets are most important: pack a waterproof jacket and a puffer. I packed a Burberry puffer for excursion days, a North Face waterproof jacket and an extra puffer (super compact), in case I needed one under my jacket (I didn’t use it). I also took a Moncler trench coat on the plane with me, which I did not use, but managed to lug around the airports. In addition, I packed a sporty black hooded Marc Cain jacket, which I wore a lot.
In Stockholm, where I got most wear out of my Burberry puffer jacket. Viking Mars is in the background.
In Warnemünde, Germany, wearing my black Marc Cain blazer (with white hearts), black jeans and Prada walking shoes.
4. Three pairs of shoes: you need walking shoes for shore excursions, a pair for walking around the ship and dressy/heels for dinners and special events on the ship. Also, if you are a boots girl, like me, pack a pair of ankle boots. I packed four pairs of shoes: runners for workouts, super light Jimmy Choo sneakers for walking around the ship (they have faux pearls which elevates my wardrobe), Louboutin bling sandals for dinners, and Prada ankle boot for walking (super comfortable). I wore them all and had no regrets for taking 4 pairs.
These are the shoes I wore and/or packed.
5. Swimsuit and cover-up: if you think you might want to take a dip in or lounge around the swimming pool, or sit in the hot tub, packing a swimsuit takes up almost no space. I packed a swimsuit, but it was too cold for me to use it. We had one warm day at sea that would have been do-able for swimming (for me), but it didn’t work with my schedule. I also packed a multi-purpose casual hooded Louis Vuitton vest because it could be used as a swimsuit cover-up, which took up a lot of space, but did not use it either.
6. Blazers: blazers are handy for travel because you can get a lot of use out of them. Blazers can elevate a casual look and be used as a jacket and I always travel with one. I wore a comfortable and casual black Marc Cain blazer on travel days (blazers and jeans are my go-to for airplane because it is usually cold), which I wore for dinners. I packed a mad Etro linen jacket in my suitcase for evening events.
My mad multi-colour Etro blazer
7. Bottoms: definitely pack long pants. I wore a pair of black jeans on my travel days and on excursion days, and packed 2 pairs of lighter-weight dressy and casual black pants for the ship. I did not pack any skirts and even if I did, it was too chilly (for me) to wear one, though I did see other women wearing skirts on the ship.
8. Purse/evening bag: small bags or evening clutches are nice to have for evenings on the ship. It is best to pack a small purse that packs flat and is light. I find leather purses too heavy, especially if it has a lot of metal hardware. I packed a small Kurt Geiger bag with sequins and, although it looked great with my outfits, it got squished in my suitcase on the way home. If you have a purse that does not pack flat, consider stuffing it with tissue paper so it does not lose its shape in the suitcase.
Kurt Geiger, whose brand I think is cool.
9. Choose a wardrobe colour theme: neutral colours are the best for mix and match. I usually wear mostly black and when I travel and add white, grey or blue items, depending on the destination. On this cruise, I did something unusual and added my mad, patterned Etro linen jacket in multi colours, which I almost regretted, but it worked well with black.
10. Choose the right fabrics: irons and steamers are not allowed on Viking ships, so there was no way to press my items (unless I sent it for laundry services). This was my biggest packing lesson. Aim for lighter fabrics that won’t crease. I packed a viscose blouse because it is light weight, but it creased terribly. The one item I was concerned about creasing was my linen Etro blazer, but the wrinkles fell away after it was hung for a while.
The blouse by Lafayette NY made of viscose fabric that badly wrinkled, though it stood out because of the musical notes.
12. Accessories: neck scarves take up no room and jewelry can be compact. I packed four scarves: a favourite summertime silk Hermes (did not wear), a Totem scarf to go with my trench and Burberry puffer coat, and another favourite black and white scarf that I wear with many outfits, which I wore a lot, and a solid black scarf. For jewelry, I packed two of my favourite Dior necklaces (gold/pearls) and wore diamond studs. I did not wear much jewelry on the ship, and excursions were casual and active, so I kept it minimal. Also, do pack a good pair of sunglasses for excursions.
13. Gym gear: depending on how much you plan to work out, you can likely get away with one workout outfit and use the laundry services if necessary. If you can use the same pair of running shoes for walking, you will save room in your suitcase. I have not yet mastered this. I brought my runners for working out and Prada shoes for walking.
14. Day bag/knapsack: you will need some sort of bag for excursions, such as a knapsack or tote bag, to carry items like your wallet, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, phone, passport and an umbrella. When landing in different ports, you are required to carry your passport with you at all times on your excursions. I packed a Swiss Gear nylon backpack that is super light and strong enough to carry all that I need, which I use on all my trips (it was gifted by Swiss Tourism years ago on a media trip), and a Prada cross-body nylon bag.
15. Pajamas: the nights are chilly out on the Baltic Sea. I found it quite cold at night and was thankful I packed a pair of warm, fleecy pajamas. Thankfully, the bathroom in my stateroom had heated floors and I was able to turn up the heat enough to be comfortable.
16. Hats: you will need a sun hat for excursions and possibly a toque for days that are cooler. I packed a sun hat (didn’t use), a ballcap (worn on excursions and to the gym). I did not pack a toque and could have used it for my early morning walks out on the open decks, as it was quite cool and windy on the open sea. I did not pack gloves and would not have needed them, but, if you are travelling a bit earlier or later than July in the season, a light pair would be a consideration.
In Bornholm, Denmark. I always travel with a ball cap. They take up virtually no space in luggage.
Shannon Skinner is an award-winning inspirational TV host/producer, writer and speaker, covering luxury travel, wine and lifestyle for women.
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Sailing the Danube with Viking River Cruises
Viking Ocean Cruise: Review
This summer, I sailed with Viking, one of the world’s leading exploration companies, on their new Viking Mars ocean cruise ship. The Viking Mars, launched in May 2022, is considered a small ship, carrying 930 passengers. Our cruise itinerary was the Viking Homelands, tracing the roots of the Vikings, which is notable as Viking celebrates its 26th anniversary this year.
Viking Mars in Stockholm harbour
It was my first ocean cruise, although I have sailed with Viking on a Longship a few years ago on the Danube river and had a fabulous experience. I will preface this review with a spoiler by sharing that I thoroughly enjoyed my ocean cruise with Viking.
Viking’s Viking Homelands Itinerary:
The Viking Homelands cruise itinerary is 15 days and sails from Stockholm, Sweden to Bergen, Norway (6 countries). I boarded the ship in Stockholm, Sweden where we set sail on the Baltic Sea.
Ports of call for this itinerary include:
- Mariehamn, the capital of the Åland Islands (Finland)
- Gdańsk, Poland
- Rønne, Bornholm, Denmark
- Warnemünde, Germany
- Copenhagen and Ålborg, Denmark
- Oslo, Stavanger, Eidfjord and Bergen, Norway
In Germany, passengers took a train to Berlin (or other closer locations) for the day.
I was on the Segment #1 of the itinerary and disembarked in Warnemünde and travelled by train to Berlin for a night.
*Graphic courtesy of Viking
Viking Mars in Stockholm harbour, rear view. It is considered a small ship.
Embarking Made Easy
When I arrived at the Viking Mars ship in Stockholm, there were tables set up on the pier where several Viking staff helped me check-in and to through security. It was quick and easy. We were all welcomed aboard with a glass of champagne by friendly Viking staff, followed by a demonstration of how to put on a life jacket. Then I watched a safety video in my stateroom, as required of all guests. It was a bit overwhelming at first, but I quickly got into the groove.
Prior to boarding, I had downloaded the Viking Voyager app and, once on the ship, I could use it to book excursions and make dining reservations. It was handy.
Me, on an open deck on the Mars with Warnemünde, Germany in the background
Staterooms, Modern and Comfortable Accommodations
My stateroom was the Deluxe Veranda, modern and spacious with sliding glass doors that lead to a balcony with a table and two chairs – and an awesome view of the Baltic Sea. There are no interior staterooms on Viking ships. My bed was comfortable. There was a desk and two armchairs, a telephone and wifi. The bathroom had heated floors (loved it) and the shower had good water pressure. The closet has enough space to hold clothes for two people. There were bathrobes, slippers, a safe, a flat screen TV, and decent toiletries such as individual bottles of shampoo and conditioner. And there were enough outlets to charge a cell phone and other electronics.
On the wall is art created by children from China who are involved in a charity linked to Viking’s owner.
The only drawback was that the pillows are a bit too soft. Overall, the accommodations were excellent.
As well, there are laundry services should you need them (so pack light). You can either use the free self-serve laundry room (just beware that many others may be using the room as well), or you can utilize Viking’s laundry services whereby they pick up laundry in your room and deliver back to you the next day for a fee.
Baltic Sea view from my stateroom
Culinary and Dining Options
Manfredi’s restaurant
There are several restaurants onboard the Viking Mars, including: The World Café, that is casual and offers a buffet with international and healthy foods, and all-day coffee and tea; the ship’s main restaurant, The Restaurant, that is also casual with no reservations required; Manfredi’s, a fine Italian restaurant that requires reservations and has a private dining room for events; and The Chef’s Table, a speciality restaurant geared to prefix meals and wine pairing experiences. There are also bars where you can order drinks, coffee and snacks.
There is no “formal dining” on the ship, which may be a relief to many travellers. However, casual elegance is the preferred dress code for restaurants.
Something I was really impressed by is the way Viking assists passengers with dietary restrictions, such as diabetics, gluten-free and vegans. There are plenty of food options for people with diet restrictions. Since I am a vegetarian (for more than 30 years), a staff member was dedicated to assisting me during my time on the ship. They called me in my stateroom when I boarded to go over my dietary needs and there was someone at the restaurant who was assigned to my table to ensure I received what I needed. Also, The Restaurant has a vegan menu with a range of food options that I could choose and submit a form in advance of my dinner. It made a huge difference for a great dining experience, as it can be challenging travelling the world as a vegetarian.
The Kitchen Table is the only restaurant with a surcharge (check with Viking for most recent prices). It is a private kitchen-like dining room where guests can join in a cooking class or demonstration.
Manfredi’s chef greeting our media group’s private “welcome aboard” dinner
We had lovely wines with our Italian dinner
Enrichment and Educational Activities
Viking offers series of enriching daily talks and presentations by experts and historians providing enlightening historical and cultural information about the destinations the ship is visiting, as well as other interesting topics. One night, we had a diamond expert talking about diamonds, while we sipped on champagne in the magnificent Star Theatre.
The enrichment presentations and talks are recorded and then made available to view the following day on the televisions in the staterooms, at the passengers’ convenience.
There are also libraries with a range of books, games, board games, spaces for quiet time for reflection or gazing at the stars with binoculars, or an afternoon tea in the lovely Wintergarden room.
Live Entertainment
Classical pianist playing the grand piano in the Atrium
Every evening, there is live musical entertainment, such as pianists and string classical duos, in the atrium “Living Room” area (3-decks high) and the Explorers’ Lounge and bar. In the Torshavn bar, there are musical performances by the house Viking Band and vocalists, which seemed to be a big hit with the crowd. One night, we enjoyed a riveting concert by world-renowned, classical guitarist, Mark Hussey, in the grand Star Theatre. Since Viking caters only to adult passengers 18+ years of age, the majority tend to be retired couples (according to my very unscientific observation), which means there are no ruckus late-night parties.
As well, there are movie nights in the Star Theatre.
My favourite part of the night was sitting in the Explorers’ Lounge with a glass of champagne watching the sun set over the Baltic sea while listening to a classical pianist.
I live for these moments. Sipping champagne in the Explorers’ Lounge while watching the sunset over the Baltic Sea.
Choose Your Adventure: Shore Excursions
Sailing the Swedish coast
Viking’s shore excursions are well-organized and interesting. For each port of call, there is an included shore excursion, as well as several optional excursions at an additional cost. I took part in all the included excursions and they were excellent. There is a variety of adventures, appealing to a wide-range of interests and passengers’ physical abilities (e.g. walking or hiking, cooking lessons or attending a concert).
Additionally, if you are a fully independent traveller, you can make your own arrangements for activities on shore – just be sure you are back on the ship in time before it leaves port because when that ship sails, your ship has truly sailed.
Boats and more boats. Mariehamn, Åland Islands, a Swedish-speaking, autonomous region of Finland. The ancient Pommern tall ship and behind it is the docked Viking Mars.
Taken from one of the bridges in Gdańsk, Poland
Clifftop ruins of Hammershus, a medieval castle, Bornholm, Denmark
Wellness and Fitness
The Viking Mars has a bright and spacious fitness centre with state-of-the-art TechnoGym equipment, and free access (included). You can run on a treadmill while looking out the window at the ocean. Personal training is available at an additional charge, as well as yoga classes.
There is also a walking/jogging track on the promenade, which I took advantage of on mornings as the sun came up (4 laps = 1.6 km). This is a good way of getting your daily steps in and walking off meals. Keep in mind, you’ll need face sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a light jacket while walking on the decks as it is chilly and in the mornings on the Baltic Sea.
One of the biggest features is a main swimming pool that has a retractable glass roof. It is a lovely, bright, open area with lots of seating and tables. It was chilly at sea (bearing in mind we are in Scandinavia), so the roof was retracted only once on the sailing during my time on the ship. I am a swimmer and for me it was a bit too small to swim laps – and the weather too cold. However, many people enjoyed the hot tubs and some even swam in the pool. There is also a small infinity pool for relaxing.
The outdoors sports deck has equipment for use (pending weather), although I did not use it.
The LivNordic Spa has a sauna, pool, steam room and snow room, as well as treatment rooms. Access to the spa is also included and appointments are not necessary. You can book a range of treatments for an extra fee, such as Swedish massage and facials. Appointments are necessary for treatments and they tend to book-up quickly on sea days.
There is also a salon where you can get your hair and nails done.
The Onboard Shops
If you forget your toothbrush, like I did, no need to worry. There are a couple of shops onboard with necessary items you may need such as sunscreen or toothpaste, or snacks. They also sell traditional Nordic ski sweaters and other apparel, travel bags, costume and fine jewellery (with brands such as Bali-based John Hardy), books, handmade gifts and souvenirs. I picked up earrings from a cool German brand, Couer de Lion.
The shops are only open when the ship is at sea due to customs issues with the ports.
All-inclusive, the way to go
Depending on your package (it may vary), almost everything you need onboard is included, such as meals, wine with lunch and dinner, all amenities (except services such as spa treatments, salon and laundry), one included shore excursion per port, entertainment, educational talks and presentations, learning opportunities, special events, all-day coffee/tea/beverages and wifi. There are also computer terminals available to use. You can add a beverage package that includes champagne and premium fine wines for a fee (there may be other additional packages, please check with Viking). The optional excursions costs are made available to you in advance, so there are no surprises.
I think this is one of the reasons some people have commented that they find Viking expensive, but it is necessary to break down the price for what you are actually getting. The benefit of the all-inclusive is your costs are known upfront and there are no hidden surprises – so you can enjoy your vacation.
The Viking Staff
Lastly, what made the Viking cruise most enjoyable was the staff who provided outstanding service. There is an Explorers’ Desk where a number of travel consultants can provide help with travel and excursions arrangements (one lovely young woman helped me with a walking map of Berlin). They were also helpful with dining considerations, directions on the ship, to managing special requests. And my room was cleaned and organized every day. They are resourceful and friendly, and seem to be well-trained. Many of them wore a uniform or the traditional Nordic ski sweater, so they were easy to spot.
Overall, I had a great experience. The entire trip went off without a hitch and I learned a lot along the way – and would not hesitate to do it again.
*For packages, prices and itineraries, please visit Viking.com for details.
I was a guest of Viking Cruises. All opinions my own.
Shannon Skinner is an inspirational TV host/producer, international speaker and writer covering travel, wellness and wine for women.
MORE RELATED STORIES:
Cruise tips: how to get the most enjoyment from your ocean or river cruise
Sailing the Danube with Viking River Cruises
Cruise tips: how to get the most enjoyment out of your ocean or river cruise
This is the first post in a series of adventures with Viking Cruises – Nordic Cruise “Homelands.”
The world of cruising can be mysterious to those who have not been on a cruise ship. I recently returned home from a fabulous Nordic cruise this month with Viking Cruises, sailing the Baltic Sea on a new ocean cruise ship. It was my first ocean cruise and, although I have done a river cruise on the Danube with Viking a few years ago, I knew I would be in good hands on this ocean voyage.
About to board the Viking Cruises’ Viking Mars ship in Stockhom, Sweden for a Nordic voyage
The nature of cruising is that you move from port to port and might be in a different country every day or every other day. There are some things to be mindful or you might not have thought of before your ship sails.
For cruise newbies, here are some tips to get the most enjoyment out of your cruise:
1). Pack light and utilize the laundry services. Some ships have self-serve laundry facilities and also full-service facilities. If you end up needing a sweater, jacket or anything else, you can always buy it.
2). Be aware of time zone changes from port to port. As you move from port to port, you may need to adjust your cell phone from automatic to manual time zone because the time may not change on your phone automatically.
Viking Mars ship in port in Stockholm
3). Mind the alcohol or you might heave when the waters get choppy.
4). When out on excursions, plan to return to the ship in advance of the time the ship indicates you need to be back on board, because when that ship sails, your ship has really sailed.
5). Plan ahead for currency used in the different countries included in ports of call. For example, not all EU countries use the euro.
Viking Mars in Stockholm harbour
6). Get a lanyard for your stateroom key, either one that attaches to your belt or hangs around the neck. You will need access to it several times a day, including getting off and on the ship for excursions. Stateroom keys are easy to misplace.
7). Learn a few important phrases in the languages of the countries you are visiting such as: please, thank you, women’s washroom/toilet and men’s washroom/toilet.
8). Dietary restrictions can be easily handled by the cruise staff. If you are a vegetarian (as I am), consider referring to yourself as a vegan because the idea of vegetarianism varies wherever you go. The vegan term seems to be clearer.
Healthy breakfast options
9). If you have an early morning, you can ask guest services for a wake-up call.
10). Order room service in advance for breakfast on days you have an early start. This allows you to eat as you get ready for those early morning shore excursions.
11). Pay attention to emergency drills you are asked to participate in, such as learning to put on a lifejacket in the event of an emergency.
It could save your life.
12). Take photos of the ship’s contact information and keep it in your phone. This includes the phrase “take me back to the ship” in the language of the country you are visiting, if provided by your cruise ship in their daily itineraries that are provided to passengers.
Stockholm’s “Old Town” shore excursion
13). Get a powerbank for your phone, especially if you use it for shooting photos and video, and ensure it is always charged.
Powerbank
14). Orientate yourself when you first get on the ship. Take a walk and familiarize yourself with where the ship’s main restaurants, guest services, shops, gym, and other key facilities are located.
15). Familiarize yourself with cruise ship terminology and lingo in advance of your cruise, such as starboard vs port side of the ship, and aft.
Main swimming pool on the Viking Mars
16). Prior to departure, check with your cell phone provider about long distance/data packages and turn off data roaming or you might be hit with a whopping bill when you return from your trip.
17). The busiest times in restaurants are the breakfast, lunch and dinner hours, but if you can eat your meals around those times, you could avoid the crowd.
Sunset and champagne on the Baltic Sea
18). Be aware that cleaning staff will enter your stateroom a few times a day, to clean and to put information about the next day’s sailing. You might want to be mindful of what you have lying around.
19). Fitness – bring your fitness routine onto the ship. Utilize the gym and walking or jogging track to get your daily steps in and burn calories. Swim if there is a pool and the temperature is warm enough. Take yoga or other fitness classes if offered. Some shore excursions can be physical, so you can get in some physical activity on your adventures.
Sailing the Swedish coast, walking the promenade
20). How to watch your weight: try everything, but instead of eating entire dishes, just taste and experiment and eat enough so that you are satisfied.
21). Avoid watching the movie Titanic, or any news about imploding submersibles before your voyage.
I was a guest of Viking Cruises. All opinions my own.
Shannon Skinner is an inspirational TV host and producer, writer and speaker covering luxury travel, wine and wellness for women.
MORE RELATED STORIES:
Sailing the Danube with Viking River Cruises
