Archeological Gems of the Mediterranean and more Travel News

By Judy Newell

Mexico News

Viva Aerobus First Airline to Fly from New Tulum Airport

Viva Aerobus has confirmed it will be the first airline to operate flights from the new Tulum International Airport.

Viva Aerobus was informed by the government that the terminal will be ready for operation in April 2024.

The Tulum flight will turn the low-cost airline into the only Mexican carrier flying to Quintana Roo’s four international airports: Cancún, Chetumal, Cozumel and, once it is open, Tulum.

Although the airline will initially operate domestic routes, Airbus is working to form an alliance with carrier Allegiant Air to service small and medium-size cities in the United States.

International News

New Rules for Driving the Amalfi Coast this Summer

Italy’s stunningly scenic Amalfi Coast has long been a popular road trip for travelers, but this summer the winding route is getting some new rules designed to combat over-tourism and suffocating summer traffic. 
ANAS, the company responsible for regulating Italy’s roads and highways, is enacting the new rules after being delivered a petition that garnered more than 10,000 signatures from local residents. 

Now, during peak hours, drivers will have to follow an alternate license plate system meaning that on even-numbered days cars with plates ending in an even number will be prohibited from hitting the road and vice versa on odd-numbered days. Residents of the 13 coastal towns, taxis, public transportation, police, and emergency vehicles will be exempt, but the rules will apply to rental cars. 

The restrictions go into effect June 15 through September 30 from 10am to 6pm and will also be applied during Holy Week and Easter which this year is from April 2 through April 9.

Cruise News 

Go on Safari   by Water

 Spot elephants and birdlife from  the comfort of the deck on a   Chobe River cruise with Zambesi Queen Collection. (zqcollection.com)

As you drift down the river from Botswana, you’ll be able to take a village tour on the Namibian side of the river, go fishing, or take a water-based safari by tender boat. With only a small number of guests per vessel, cruising on one of the three Chobe Princesses is like being on your very own houseboat. 

The entire vessel can also be booked exclusively. Opt for a superior cabin to view the passing parade from your own private balcony. 

Cruise the Meandering Seine

Honfleur – Rouen – Mantes-La-Jolie – Paris – Melun – Paris

croisieuroperivercruises.com

This unique itinerary from Honfleur to Melun offers a spectacle of beauty. 

Let yourself be seduced by Honfleur, its picturesque streets and its Old Basin, breathe in Normandy on the Côte Fleurie, soak up nature in Giverny, admire the most prestigious historical monuments as you cross Paris and immerse yourself in French history in Rouen and the Château de Fontainebleau. 

So many experiences that will make this cruise an extraordinary journey.

Cruise Highlights

Unprecedented cruise from Melun to Normandy

Experience Paris at night from the bow of the ship

All excursions included:

Tour the palace in Fontainebleau, residence of the French monarchs for over 800 years

The must-see sites in Paris

Giverny and Monet’s gardens

Art and history in Rouen

Astounding beauty on the Norman Abbey Circuit

The enchanting city of Honfleur and the Côte Fleurie

Seven days from US$1,151.

Deal of the Week 

Archeological Gems of the Mediterranean

Reduced International Airfare and Special Fares

Renowned for its ancient archeological sites, the Mediterranean is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. 

Whether you are interested in exploring the spectacular ruins of the Forum of Nerva in Rome, want to witness the legendary Acropolis in Athens, or look forward to admiring the medieval fortified town of Carcassonne, you can discover remarkably preserved antiquities on an ocean voyage with Viking. 

Reserve your stateroom today and receive reduced airfare and special fares on one of the fascinating journeys below.

Featured Ocean Voyages:

Ancient Mediterranean Treasures

Istanbul to Athens

International Airfare from US$499 and Special Fares

Eight days, six tours, two countries

Cruise fare from US$3,999 

Airfare from US$1,299

Cities of Antiquity and the Holy Land

Rome to Athens

International Airfare from US$299 and Special Fares

15 days, nine tours, four countries

Cruise fare from US$5,099 

Airfare per person from US$299

Journey to Antiquities

Rome to Athens

International Airfare from US$499 and Special Fares

Eight days, five tours, three countries

Cruise fare per person from US$3,599 

Airfare per person from US $799

Judy Newell, an international travel consultant for over 50 years, heads Perfect Journeys and specializes in unique travel experiences to destinations around the world.  She custom designs journeys that are tailored to suit clients’ interests, physical abilities, and budgets. Please contact Judy for further information on Travel News topics, Mexico, and international travel. Cell phone 415 111 8765, Vonage 949 300 3682; email judynewell@perfectjourneys.net. Her office is in Rancho Los Labradores on the highway to Dolores Hidalgo.

Sources: Mexico News Daily, National Geographic, Rope Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises