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P&O Iona Cabins To Avoid (And The Best Cabins To Book Instead)
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P&O Iona Cabins To Avoid (And The Best Cabins To Book Instead)

Entering service in 2021, Iona is one of P&O’s newest and largest ships, with a total capacity of 5,200 guests and 1800 crew.

I sailed on Iona for a Norwegian Fjords voyage in 2022 and had a wonderful time. Not only is the ship gorgeous, but the itinerary was amazing and had me completely hooked on cruising. Yes - this was my first ever cruise!

Something I didn’t know at the time was that all cabins are not created equal, and it’s important to do some research prior to booking. We were lucky and stayed in a great inside cabin on deck 4, which was stable in the rough North Sea and quiet throughout the night.

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Who Owns Ambassador Cruise Line? CFC Merger Explained
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Who Owns Ambassador Cruise Line? CFC Merger Explained

The UK’s newest cruise line, Ambassador recently merged with French line CFC, and renamed themselves the Ambassador Group. While the company’s overall ownership hasn’t changed, this merger combines the leadership team and offers new itineraries for the British market.

Currently, the majority stake is still owned by Ambassador’s existing shareholders, Njord Partners, with Cheyne Capital taking a minority stake. Ambassador’s existing CEO, Christian Verhounig has stayed in place and will continue to lead the company, alongside CFC’s chief operating officer Maëlysse Pierrot-Guibourt.

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Best & Worst Cabins on Ambassador Cruise Line
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Best & Worst Cabins on Ambassador Cruise Line

The UK’s newest cruise line, Ambassador provide good value voyages for a low cost, promising guests ‘the warmest welcome at sea’.

Choosing the right cabin can really make or break your trip. It all depends on what’s important for you - do you want to be close to the elevators and bars, or do you want a quiet spot away from the action? Where are you sailing to, and do you want a view from your room?

Consider whether you experience travel sickness, and whether you want to choose a cabin that is least likely to make you feel unwell.

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Pokémon x Natural History Museum London Review: Is It Worth Visiting?
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Pokémon x Natural History Museum London Review: Is It Worth Visiting?

Announced in late 2025, the Pokemon Natural History Museum pop-up opened to the public in January 2026. It’s been hugely popular, with tickets selling out almost immediately, leading it to be extended multiple times.

The pop-up event will now be continuing beyond the 19th of April for a limited run - although no closing date has been announced.

It’s important to remember that this experience is definitely more of a pop-up shop than an exhibition, and although there are a few things to look at, these are not extensive.

This blog post will include photos from my own experience, and help you decide whether it’s worth visiting for yourself.

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P&O Arvia Cabins to Avoid When You Book
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P&O Arvia Cabins to Avoid When You Book

Here is everything you need to know about the cabin types on P&O’s Arvia.

Arvia is P&O’s newest ship, having entered the fleet in December 2022. She’s very similar to her sister ship Iona, although there are a number small differences.

I loved sailing on Arvia, and found the ship to be very comfortable during my two week cruise around the Caribbean. I was really lucky with my cabin, 11317, which I was allocated after a successful upgrade bid, and had no complaints about it at all.

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Ambassador Cruise Line Deals (Updated 2026!)
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Ambassador Cruise Line Deals (Updated 2026!)

Ambassador is Britain’s newest cruise line, known for its affordable and good value cruises which depart from a variety of regional ports.

Their first two ships, Ambition and Ambience, carry out no-fly voyages to destinations all over Europe, including the Mediterranean, British Isles, Norwegian Fjords and more. Whether you’re looking for your next summer holiday, some winter sun, or exciting exploration somewhere new, you’re bound to find it with Ambassador.

In 2025 Ambassador gained another addition to their fleet, Renaissance, which now hosts fly-cruises around the Caribbean for a British market.

If you’re thinking about booking your next cruise, then you’re in the right place. In this blog post I have handpicked some of the very best deals, spanning a wide range of categories and updated for 2026 and 2027.

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Ambassador Cruise Line: A Complete Guide
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Ambassador Cruise Line: A Complete Guide

A UK focused cruise line specialising in no-fly voyages, Ambassador begun operations in 2021 with just the one ship.

Their cruises are adults only (although they used to host a limited number of multi-generational voyages) and are particularly popular in the 50+ demographic - although you definitely don’t have to be this age to sail with them. I travelled with Ambassador at 30 years old and had a really fun time!

The small size of ambassador’s ships means that they are able to dock in a variety of regional UK ports. This really sets them apart from other lines, allowing them to run itineraries from places like Cornwall and Scotland.

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Ambassador Cruise Line Dress Code: What to Wear
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Ambassador Cruise Line Dress Code: What to Wear

As a relaxed yet traditional cruise provider, Ambassador generally has a chilled vibe, and all dress codes are optional.

Despite this, it is important to be aware of the dress code so you know what to expect. It can be really fun to join in with formal nights, but I know they’re not for everyone. By planning ahead you can avoid any surprises and know how to fit in with the other passengers.

This guide will be useful for both first time cruisers and seasoned travellers who are planning to sail with Ambassador Cruise Line.

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Crystal Cruises vs Viking Cruises: Which Is Better?
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Crystal Cruises vs Viking Cruises: Which Is Better?

If you’re trying to decide between Crystal Cruises and Viking Cruises, then you’re in the right place.

While both lines offer premium, high end experiences, they have a different vibe and suit different cruising styles. Personally, I have sailed and loved Viking and Crystal, but can definitely see how each company would suit a different type of cruiser.

In this blog post I give a clear, side-by-side comparison and explain which cruise would be better suited for your tastes. Whichever you pick, you’re sure to have an amazing time!

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Best & Worst Cabins on Viking Ocean Cruises (What to Book & Avoid)
Cruising, Travel Julia Mitchell Cruising, Travel Julia Mitchell

Best & Worst Cabins on Viking Ocean Cruises (What to Book & Avoid)

This is an important part of your vacation that you need to get right before you even set sail!

As a premium line with modern ships, all of Viking’s cabins will be similar in quality, but the location of those cabins will come with various benefits and drawbacks.

This guide will help you to avoid some of the common mistakes people make when booking a Viking cruise, and select the stateroom that is best for you.

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What Costs Extra on a Viking Cruise?
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What Costs Extra on a Viking Cruise?

One of the many great things about Viking is that their cruises really are an almost all inclusive holiday.

While the cruise fare might be slightly higher than you would find with other lines, an impressive number of services are included in the price. This includes all of your food, drinks with meals, and even your toiletries, so you really don’t need to spend any extra money.

This blog post outlines what is included in the base fare of a Viking cruise, as well as any optional extras that you may want to budget for.

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Viking Ocean Cruise Packing List
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Viking Ocean Cruise Packing List

Packing for a vacation can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t need to be that way.

This blog post outlines my top tips for anyone preparing to embark on a Viking ocean cruise, including clothing, cabin accessories and excursion essentials.

Hoping to play bingo? Pack your bingo dabber. Have a tendency to lose your cruise card? Get yourself a lanyard so you can wear it instead.

Read on for my complete guide to packing for a Viking ocean cruise!

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Viking Cruises Dress Code: Complete Guide
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Viking Cruises Dress Code: Complete Guide

If you’re not sure what to pack for a Viking cruise, then you’re in the right place.

Understanding Viking’s dress codes can be confusing, as they often differ from other mainstream cruise lines, with conflicting information shared by cruisers online.

Fear not! In this blog post I will outline the differences between a Viking river cruise and a Viking ocean cruise, and clarify which types of clothing are needed for each voyage.

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Is the Kitchen Table Worth It on Viking Cruises?
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Is the Kitchen Table Worth It on Viking Cruises?

Read my full review and learn what to expect from this excursion.

An onboard cooking experience offered by Viking Cruises, the Kitchen Table is available to book on their ocean ships. It’s a great way to liven up a relaxing day at sea, meet some new people, and learn how to cook a delicious three course meal from one of their onboard chefs.

I took part in one of these group cooking classes during a cruise around South East Asia onboard the Viking Venus in 2025, and found it to be a huge amount of fun.

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First Time On Viking Cruises? What to Expect + Essential Tips
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First Time On Viking Cruises? What to Expect + Essential Tips

If you’re thinking about booking a Viking cruise, then you’re in the right place.

I’ve sailed with Viking multiple times over the last few years and have absolutely loved each of my experiences. From travelling around South East Asia to sailing down the Seine at Christmas time, I’ve experienced what both their ocean and river ships have to offer.

This blog post will include tips for first time Viking cruisers, including what to expect on embarkation day, what’s included in the cost of your cruise, and how to get the most out of your holiday.

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London Tilbury Cruise Port - A Complete Guide
Cruising, Travel Julia Mitchell Cruising, Travel Julia Mitchell

London Tilbury Cruise Port - A Complete Guide

If you’ve booked a cruise that sails from the UK, then you may find yourself embarking at London Tilbury.

Despite its deceptive name, this cruise port is actually located in Essex, in a town slightly to the east of Greater London. This means that your journey will require a bit of forward planning in order to make it as smooth as possible.

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What To Do In Edinburgh
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What To Do In Edinburgh

As one of the world’s most popular city break destinations, Edinburgh is a fantastic place to visit with a rich history and many things to see and do.

My guide highlights some of the city’s best landmarks and activities, with the aim of helping you to make the most of your trip.

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What to Do in Norway
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What to Do in Norway

One of my favourite countries that I’ve travelled to in recent years, read this article to learn more about Norway and the many things there are to see and do.

What to Do in Norway

Norway is known for its outstanding natural beauty and glistening natural fjords, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, water sports and winter activities. Rich in arts and culture, the country has strong ties to the Vikings and a number of bustling towns and cities to explore.

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What To Do In Zurich
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What To Do In Zurich

As Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich is much more than just a financial hub. Here you’ll find medieval streets and world class museums alongside panoramic viewpoints and lakeside walks, making it the ideal place to both explore and relax.

Zurich truly blends historic charm with modern culture, meaning there really is something for everyone. It’s also well located as a base for day trips, with nearby locations including the snowy peaks of the alps and glistening glaciers in Engelberg.

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