Travel Journals
Matador SEG45 Travel Bag Review 2025
Just a glance at the 824,000-member r/onebag Reddit community will show you that travelers are increasingly drawn to the convenience and simplicity of traveling with just one bag — myself included. In the quest for my own “one bag,” the Matador SEG45 Travel Pack caught my eye. This innovative duffel-backpack hybrid features a distinctive segmented design (think built-in packing cubes), which provides a ton of organizational and accessibility benefits. And while this specific model isn’t as frequently mentioned as some fan favorites in r/onebag, the high praise for older Matador bags, and generally positive reputation for the brand overall are a great indicator of their quality, so I decided to give it a shot.
During my month of testing, I explored how well the Matador SEG45 Travel Pack balanced function and portability — a delicate equilibrium that one-bag enthusiasts continually seek — and whether it deserves a spot on our best travel backpack or best carry-on bag guides.
What is the one-bag movement?
The “one-bag” movement refers to a travel philosophy focused on packing everything you need for a trip in a single bag, emphasizing minimalism and mobility. By focusing on careful curation and efficient packing habits — and eliminating the stress and inconvenience of dragging around bulky luggage — one-baggers are able to focus their attention and energy on exploring and experiencing their destination. According to Doug Dyment, longtime one-bagger and creator of onebag.com, “Of all the travel skills you might acquire, traveling light is the one most likely to result in enjoyable, productive, stress-free travel experiences.”
Matador SEG45 Travel Pack
Matador’s SEG45 Travel Pack transforms from a backpack to a duffel and features half a dozen compartments that act as built-in packing cubes.
Design and specs
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
The exterior of the Matador SEG45 Travel Pack is made of 420D Bluesign PU-coated nylon, which is essentially a medium-weight nylon fabric treated with a polyurethane coating to make it waterproof (a Bluesign certification indicates that it’s produced with minimal environmental impact). Another 420D Bluesign nylon UHMWPE reinforced ripstop adds a layer of ultra-strong plastic fibers — that’s the “UHMWPE” part — woven into a grid pattern to prevent potential tears from spreading. The bag’s interior is constructed from 100D Bluesign nylon ripstop, which is a lighter-weight nylon with a grid pattern to prevent tearing. It’s also waterproofed with polyurethane.
Although not quite as “heavy-duty” as the high-denier nylon recommended by Dyment and less practical for rugged adventure applications, I consider the lightweight and flexibility benefits of this 420D material a worthy trade-off. The YKK PU-coated sealing zippers (Dyment’s recommendation as the best zipper brand “without question”) and 210D nylon bonded thread provide strong and user-friendly zipper pulls. You can also tuck these pulls through little security loops at the end of the zipper, which, although not a “lock” by any means, do add a layer of deterrent to anyone who might want to quickly unzip a compartment without you knowing.
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
The Matador’s 45-liter capacity is broken down into five segments of varying sizes (two 6-liter, two 9-liter, and one 15-liter compartment). Or, if you prefer to use that 45 liters as a single open space (or a combination of both), you can unzip the clamshell and fill the large compartment underneath. A zippered laptop sleeve (large enough to fit 16-inch models) is located on the opposite side of the bag, positioning it against your back when used as a backpack. A dedicated water bottle sleeve runs perpendicular to the segmented section, keeping your container upright in backpack mode. It’s worth noting that the Matador’s 46-inch dimensions (height + width + depth) are a hair above Dyment’s 45-inch recommendation for carry-on compatibility, although its soft, non-rigid structure makes that slightly less of an issue.
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
The Matador offers several carrying options, a removable shoulder strap, stowable backpack straps, and three grab handles on the ends and front. Its impressive 2.5-pound weight maximizes portability even more, falling well within Dyment’s sub-4-pound recommendation.
What it’s like to use
In order to fully explore the Matador’s capabilities and functionality, I tested the bag for a month, using it as carry-on luggage during a weeklong trip to Florida, as well as around my own house as a laundry bag, backpack for work supplies, and generally any duffel bag/backpack type use I could find.
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
Throughout this testing, the exterior compartments naturally stood out the most, and I was seriously impressed with just how convenient and useful they were. Not only were they great for separating and keeping different types of gear organized (essentially acting as built-in packing cubes), but unlike the pockets or sleeves typically found on other backpacks or duffel bags, were roomy enough to really fill up with a ton of stuff without issue. I also appreciated that they’re not all the same size, making it easier to remember what I had stored inside without unzipping (i.e., I knew the smaller 6-liter compartments were for smaller items and gear like notebooks, power cords, and snacks, while the larger sections were for clothes). In addition to actual carry-on travel, these compartments also served as clothing and gear organizers during the trip itself, where I used the large compartment as dirty laundry storage or for containing damp and sandy items between washes.
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
With so many different areas and compartments, I also appreciated that the Matador SEG45 Travel Pack used a different color zipper for the clamshell compartment, making it easier to find among the (relative) clutter of the bag’s exterior.
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
Hauling the bag around was a breeze, and the removable shoulder and backpack straps (nice and padded for extra comfort) were simple to use when needed. The bag’s heavy-duty, quality construction also gave me the confidence to toss it around with the three grab handles without issue. I would say that although its backpack straps are comfortable, it won’t be as practical as a camping backpack for extended excursions. Its loose structure lacks the support of a more rigid option, and the hip belt didn’t provide the most support (at least compared to legit “backpacking” backpacks).
What makes it stand out?
Although the Matador SEG45 Travel Pack serves the same basic purpose as your typical backpack-duffel hybrid — to store and haul large loads comfortably — its multi-compartment design provides significantly more functionality than the competition. Its external zippered compartments allow you to keep specific items together in their own dedicated compartments — a major plus for “one-baggers” who plan on carrying a wide variety of items. The fact that it provides so much useful built-in organization without compromising raw storage space really separates it from similar bags.
Cons to consider
The main issue I can see someone having with the Matador SEG45 Travel Pack is its general lack of structure. The large capacity, combined with its soft construction, means that the less you pack, the more “slouchy” it gets, increasing your chances of ending up with an imbalanced bag. This could be particularly annoying when used as a backpack, especially if the top segments are packed heavier than the lower. It’s not a huge deal, but requires you to be a little more aware of weight distribution when packing up. Also, while the sectional design is convenient for separating larger items, the lack of smaller sleeves and pockets (typically found on dedicated “backpacking” bags) might be a dealbreaker for some.
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
The Matador’s hip belt is another feature that didn’t exactly wow me during testing. While a nice perk to add some extra stability in backpack mode, it lacks the structure and thick cushioning of one designed for real-deal trekking, and doesn’t do much to transfer the load from your shoulders to your pelvis. Although the backpack straps themselves were cushioned and comfortable, this meager hip belt makes the Matador a less practical option for all-day trekking.
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
I can also see the white color getting dirty over time — mine accrued a few smudges just from gate-checking, but that can be easily solved by opting for the black version. Unfortunately, the white looks extremely cool, so this might be a tough decision.
What are your alternatives?
If the Matador SEG45 Travel Pack is a little too bulky for your taste, and you’d prefer something a bit more compact, consider the Matador Seg28 Backpack. It still offers the same useful segmented design, but in a 28-liter package. The Matador Globerider 35L does a decent job of splitting the difference between the two, providing more of a backpack-focused design versus duffel, but without the signature segmented design. Another popular one-bag option is the Patagonia Black Hole Mini MLC 30 — more of a backpack-style layout with sleeves for smaller items and electronics. If you’d like to maintain as much storage capacity as possible, but prefer a more traditional design, consider our own top travel backpack, the Tortuga Travel Backpack Pro.
The bottom line
Alex Rennie/Business Insider
In a nutshell, the Matador SEG45 Travel Pack is a solid option if you’re tired of digging through your entire bag to find a single item. While its soft structure and minimal hip support probably aren’t practical for hardcore trekkers, the clever segmented design genuinely makes travel organization easier. It’s best suited for organized travelers who value accessibility over rigid structure, and who appreciate having built-in organization without sacrificing overall capacity.
Travel Journals
Your Say On Princess Packages “Try Staying On The Gold Coast For A Family For Five Nights With Food, Drinks And So On. A Cruise Is Still The Best Value Holiday”
Cruise Passenger readers always have plenty to say about what’s going on in the Australian cruise community, and in the broader cruise community. In Your Say, Cruise Passenger looks at the issues our readers are writing to us about on our blogs, posts and newsletters.
This week brought news that Princess raised its Princess Plus package by about 20 per cent and its Princess Premier package by about 30 per cent.
For Princess cruisers, the range of benefits were cut, and they’ll now be receiving less benefits for more money if they do opt for their Princess packages on future cruises. Full information on the changes can be found here.
The package changes certainly divided our community. Princess packages have been regarded as great value for some time. Have the new benefits changed all that?
Some Cruise Passenger readers stood up for Princess. Ken Anderson noted that Princess is “still better value than other lines”.
Matt Butterfield made the point that a Princess cruise is still coming out cheaper than many other types of holidays: “Yet it’s disappointing, but not a deal breaker to cruise Princess. Try staying on the Gold Coast for a family for 5 nights with food, drinks and so on. A cruise is still the best value holiday.”
But cruiser Warren Goodall says this move could spell the end of cruises with Princess for him and his wife.
“Disappointing changes. My wife and I are elite passengers and occasional drinkers, (usually zero alcohol beer through the day and the odd whisky at night. The old price was about right but the new prices, and the caveats recently placed on the ordering system, now make this a less than friendly package. It seems Princess is moving away from being a comfortable and pleasant cruise experience.
“Time to look at Viking cruises – smaller ships, no casino, no art auctions, tours included for every port, complimentary drinks at lunch and dinner.”
Another Cruise Passenger reader Peter Hill feels similarly, recently having made the change away from Princess.
“Surprise, Surprise, Surprise Princess continuing to nickel and dime. They treat their customers purely as consumers. “After over 25 Princess cruises we voted with our feet and money and went to another line, glad we did. Princess management needs to change. Yes they are increasing profits but at some stage their current philosophy will come back to bite them.”
Cruiser Gary Bryant piled on the sentiment: “Princess is getting as bad as the airlines with all the nickel and dime of their clientele.”
Linda Thom said more types of drinks will be counted towards the 15-drink limit for the plus beverage package, not just alcoholic drinks.
“Not happy about the tea and coffee being counted as one of your drinks. The price of coffee and tea is a big difference than the price of a cocktail. You could have 2 coffees for the price of a cocktail.”
Outside of the Cruise Passenger ecosystem, there’s been plenty more said about these packages.
One cruiser commented on the post of a popular cruise blogger: “My last couple of cruises were spoilt by the overwhelming feeling of being little more than a captive marketing opportunity. I’m currently looking at other ways to holiday. These penny pinching changes just add to the feeling of being gouged at every opportunity.”
Other cruisers mentioned they aren’t so sure if they’ll be continuing with the package.
“I always bought the Plus for the Coffee, and Water. The alcohol was just a bonus. I am going to have to start doing that math at this point. It almost forces you into buying the Premium Package now.”
Changes to Carnival’s loyalty program
Comments are still rolling in around loyalty programs. One of our readers said he would be looking at alternatives after Princess stopped homeporting in Melbourne.
“I am in Elite group on Princess and gained it after only 13 cruises. However, I am not too worried about any changes as I will no longer be sailing with them until they change their attitude to Melbourne Australia!
“Just because the Government increased the port charges, Princess stopped home porting in Melbourne, despite the fact it is us, the passengers, who finally pay the port charges by a surcharge on fares. All we can get now is Disney, and who wants to sail with a load of kids?” Michael Lucas.
Royal Caribbean’s year-round cruising
In the last few years, we have speculated about Royal Caribbean’s potential for year-round cruising. But with the announcement of their new private island Lelepa in Vanuatu, it seems like it may be closer to fruition than speculation.
One of our regular readers MH has made a good point about Royal Caribbean’s potential plans.
“RCL, like most companies, will very rarely deny anything in the future, as they have nothing to gain, but a possibility to lose if plans change. So their response is in line with that, rather than suggesting anything positive.
That said, given the cost and it being unused, it would make commercial sense to operate it year round. Doing it only part time makes it like ski slopes – much more expensive, meaning less commercially desirable – and there’s no need to ‘leave money on the table.” MH
Are cruise line bans becoming more intrusive?
Cruise line bans are increasing, with Carnival Cruise Lines accused of banning hip hop music. Are cruise lines’ rules over the top, of necessary as cruising becomes more popular and ship sizes grow? Our cruisers don’t think so.
“As an elite passenger with Princess our last cruise on the “Coral” came a close second to our world cruise on the “Oriana”. The reason being the “Coral” is a smaller ship and the majority of passengers were elderly. Courtesy at the lifts etc needed to be seen to be believed. No one pushing you out of the way to gain access to areas, no one running around corridors at all hours. Crews cannot enforce rules that have already been set down so how are they going to enforce new ones..I fear cruising will never be the same as it has been in the past.” Elaine Armstrong.
“Rules are fine, unless they’re deliberately aimed at making you pay the cruise lines inflated onboard prices. Preventing someone taking a couple of packets of potato crisps onboard, then offering them in the shop for 4 times the price is blatant gouging.” Ken Roberts
Please keep those comments coming
WE VALUE YOUR COMMENTS AND ENJOY READING WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT OUR STORIES. PLEASE KEEP THOSE COMMENTS COMING ON THE STORIES – AND WE’LL PICK OUT THE BEST EACH WEEK FOR THIS NEW COLUMN
The summer’s soaring temperatures and golden afternoons invite us to seek moments of serene beauty and unexpected adventure. It’s the cusp of shoulder season: crowds ease, rates dip slightly, and the sweet spot between high-season energy and off-season calm emerges, making now a perfect time to book that trip you’ve been daydreaming about.
Travelers can find flash sales on late-July flight departures, deals on resort bookings for August, and onboard credits for select cruises right now. With these top travel deals, every itinerary can feel both spontaneous and meticulously curated. Just remember: This is a fleeting phase. Travel deals are ripe now, but they won’t last long. Below, we’ve rounded up all the best July travel deals to book now. From discounts on beachfront resorts and tropical cruises to last-minute round-trip flights, there are plenty of great deals to dive into.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publication date. Additional reporting by Jamie Spain and Kyler Alvord.
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Flight deals
Delta’s flash sale offers round-trip tickets for less than $200
Imagine slipping from the Bay Area’s foggy dawn into Texas sunshine—all on Delta’s newest flash fare. Book by July 31 and fly round‑trip from San Francisco to Austin for as little as $189. Your plane becomes a time machine: wake up to mellow California dawn, and by evening stroll through South Congress with tacos in hand.
Swap skyline for sunshine: Newark to Orlando at $149
Your spur-of-the-moment beach escape just landed. United Airlines is offering round-trip fares from Newark to Orlando starting at $149, valid for travel July 24 through July 31, if you book by the latter date. Picture yourself trading mid‑Atlantic bluescapes for balmy Sunshine State sunsets within hours—poolside piña coladas await.
Fly West for less on Frontier Airlines
Thanks to Frontier’s basic-fare buzz, round-trip flights from Queens to Los Angeles drop to just $98 for select departures July 24 through July 31. Pack light—personal item only—and trade New York’s skyline for California sun in hours. This is the kind of no-frills splurge that leaves plenty of budget space for tacos and boardwalk strolls on the West Coast.
Fly to New York for under $100 on JetBlue
JetBlue is making it easier than ever to enjoy the energy and elegance of New York City this summer, with fares to the Big Apple starting at just $53. Travelers can expect more than just a seat—each flight includes complimentary snacks, in-seat entertainment, and extra legroom that sets JetBlue apart from the competition. Whether it’s strolling through the leafy paths of Central Park, discovering world-class art in The Met, or indulging in a little retail therapy in SoHo, this limited-time offer brings the magic of the city within easy (and affordable) reach.
Get your domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City covered by Six Senses Con Dao
Treat yourself to a relaxing self-care retreat with Six Senses Con Dao this fall, where you can take advantage of the Flights On Us offer. Six Senses Con Dao is covering the cost of round-trip domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City when travelers book three nights or more in a villa or vista. The villas include infinity pools with dreamy views and comfortable beds, and travelers can enjoy daily breakfasts at By The Beach Restaurant when they book. This deal applies to new reservations made from now until December 31, 2025.
College students save big on Lufthansa flights and baggage fees
Verify your student status with Lufthansa and immediately reap the rewards, unlocking a host of discounted economy flights between the United States and Europe, India, Africa, or the Middle East. Students also earn one free piece of checked baggage and the option to get a refund without fees. The program only applies to students in college who are over the age of 16.
Save up to 40% on hotel stays with Etihad Airways’ Stopover Package
Stopover packages are a great way to add another destination to your journey without spending too much extra cash. Travelers who want to experience Abu Dhabi can take advantage of Etihad Airways’ discounted Stopover Packages, which currently include up to two free nights in select three- or four-star hotels. The offer also comes with discounts on restaurants and other experiences, as well as amenities like 24-hour check-in and complimentary Wi-Fi. Travelers must make bookings at least three days in advance before arriving in Abu Dhabi.
Train deals
Explore US national parks aboard Amtrak and earn 40,000 bonus points
For a more grounded—but no less extraordinary—experience, consider Amtrak’s National Park Week promotion. Travelers can save up to $300 on three-night rail journeys that whisk them through America’s majestic natural wonders. Think Grand Canyon sunset views from panoramic observation cars, or waking up just miles from Yosemite’s misty peaks. This offer is a love letter to slow travel, granting access to iconic parks from the unique vantage point of a train window, where the journey is as memorable as the destination.
New Amtrak Guest Rewards members who sign up before July 30 receive a whopping 40,000-point bonus (nearly $1,000 worth) for future rail travel. It’s like earning a golden ticket to scenic coastlines, grand rail journeys, and unhurried cross-country storytelling, all financed before summer fades.
Step back in time on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Step aboard the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, where opulence meets nostalgia on journeys through Europe‘s most enchanting landscapes. This iconic train is home to meticulously restored 1920s and 1930s carriages, complete with polished wood paneling, brass fixtures, and sumptuous interiors. Destinations include Paris, Venice, Vienna, and Budapest, with fares starting at approximately $3,262 per person. Travelers can enjoy gourmet dining, impeccable service, and panoramic views of the European countryside. For a limited time, solo travelers can use code VSTWSOLE to receive special fares on bookings for 2025 and 2026 departures.
Save 25% on Grand Canyon Railway getaway packages
The Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel, home to one of the most scenic train routes in the US, will cover all the bases with its two- and three-night getaway packages that include lodging, meals, and—of course—a train ride through the Southwest’s most-visited national park. The bundles are currently 25% off the usual price for an undetermined amount of time, meaning if there was ever a moment to jump on the full canyon experience, it’s now. Plus, you’ll receive a $20 gift shop certificate for souvenirs.
Tour deals
Venture through Italy with EF Go Ahead Tours
Book through July 31 for a late‑July or early‑August awakening along cobblestone lanes and rolling Tuscan hills with $500 off its “Week in Italy” small‑group tour. Your days blend vineyard picnics, Roman piazzas, cathedral steps, and friendly locals showing you the way—all under summer’s glowing light.
Score a free jet-boat ride when you book Contiki Tours
Reserve by July 31 for travel from July 24 onwards and unlock a complimentary jet‑boat ride, plus $200 in guided activity credit on Contiki’s 15‑day “Real New Zealand” adventure. Think geyser hikes under alpenglow, Māori cultural nights, and glacier-carved fjords—serious thrill meets smooth style.
Save 15% off last-minute group trips when you book with Trafalgar
For spontaneous adventurers, guided vacation company Trafalgar is offering last-minute deals with up to 15% off on trips less than four months away. With deals rolling out daily, travelers can save nearly $800 on select tours to top European hotspots such as Best of Scotland and Spanish Wonder with multiple departure dates the next 4 months. Travelers can skip the stress of Europe’s limited availability and hard-to-get reservations and enjoy an itinerary that is handcrafted by local specialists and led by expert tour guides with included accommodations, delicious meals, and unique activities.
Hotel deals
Celebrate Nobu Hotel Chicago’s fifth anniversary with 10% off your stay
In honor of Nobu Hotel Chicago’s fifth anniversary this month, the West Loop property is celebrating with an exclusive Cheers to Five Years offer featuring a 10% discount on a stay. The 115-room hotel has chic, tranquil accommodations that blend old-world Japanese influence with ultra-modern design. In addition to the 10% savings, the Cheers to Five Years package offer includes an exclusive toast with Veuve Clicquot Champagne with keepsake glasses and chocolate truffles upon arrival. Travelers can book through September 30 for stays through January 31, 2026.
Stay five nights, earn 25,000 Marriott Points
Book a five-night stay at select Marriott resorts in the Caribbean, Latin America, or Mexico between July 24–31 and earn 25,000 bonus points toward future travel. This is ideal for travelers aiming to stretch summer into early fall.
Save 20% on summer stays with IHG
IHG Members can enjoy 20% off stays at participating IHG properties across the US, Mexico, and the Caribbean when staying at any of the brand’s award-winning accommodations by July 31. Think spa weekends, beachfront havens, and pet-friendly escapes—each polished by modern comfort and membership perks.
Celebrate “Christmas in July” with 30% off national park lodgings
Xanterra is offering 30% off stays at lodges like Grand Canyon South Rim, Death Valley, and Yellowstone when booked by July 30 for travel starting July 31 through August 31. It’s perfect for travelers itching for a last-minute immersion into wild canyons, star-drenched skies, and the raw soul of America’s great outdoors.
Atlantis Paradise Island is offering a complimentary night on your next Caribbean getaway
For those looking for a bit of sunshine this winter, Atlantis Paradise Island is bringing the heat (and savings) this winter. Guests who book by April 30, 2026, will receive a fourth night free and up to $750 in resort credit. The minimum stay is four nights at one of the brand’s five properties: The Coral, The Royal, The Cove, The Reef, or Harborside. Those visiting Atlantis in the upcoming months can look forward to a range of exciting offerings, including the Barbie Bahamas Beach Vacation and a trip to Award-winning Chef JJ Johnson’s recently opened restaurant, Field Trip, which features his signature rice bowls and Afro-Caribbean cuisine.
Enjoy up to 30% off your stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau
Resting in the heart of Nassau, Margaritaville Beach Resort offers oceanfront accommodations along crystal clear Caribbean waters. Escape to the Margaritaville state of mind at the Saint Somewhere Spa, taste world-class eateries, and play at the Fins Up Water Park. The resort is within walking distance of downtown Nassau, where guests can learn about the history of the Bahamas at historic Bay Street and taste local favorites at Arawak Cay. Book a summer stay and save up to 30% off—plus you’ll receive up to $150 in resort credit. The longer the stay, the greater the discount, valid for stays from May 23 through August 31. For larger groups, the Family Suite Package includes perks such as 25% off suites, kids eat free at Vacation Café with a paying adult, $10 daily arcade credits at Icons Entertainment Center, and four movie tickets to enjoy a fun-filled film experience. The package is valid for stays from May 18 through November 16.
Up to 20% off stays—and kids eat free—all summer long at The Omni Providence Hotel
The Omni Providence Hotel offers 564 upscale rooms and suites in downtown Providence. Its refined ambiance and central location make it ideal for both business and leisure travelers, but it boasts big savings targeted toward families. This summer, the more nights you stay, the more you save. From now through September 7, travelers can save up to 15% off a two-night stay or 20% off three nights or more. Plus, kids eat free all summer long at the two on-site restaurants.
Save 20% on your next Hawaiian getaway
For an affordable trip to Hawaii, Aqua-Aston Hospitality is offering 20% off rooms for travelers looking for luxurious condos and resort-style amenities at a fraction of the price. Starting at $176 a night, travelers can pick from private accommodations across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or The Big Island. The condos range from two- to four-bedrooms, offering a budget-friendly stay for romantic couple getaways or accommodations for a rambunctious group of teenagers looking to catch some waves during summer break.
Enjoy 10% off your next Northeastern getaway to Cliff House Maine
Set across 70 acres atop Bald Head Cliff on the southern coast of Maine, Cliff House Maine offers guests unrivaled experiences in a spectacular setting. The resort comprises 226 stylish accommodations, including 186 guest rooms and 40 breathtaking suites. This spring, guests can book a two-night stay or longer in one of the luxurious suites and enjoy 15% off their booking. Each booking also includes a $75 resort credit that can be used at the two onsite restaurants, the world-class spa, or the movie theater.
Explore Santa Fe with Four Season Resort Rancho Encantado
You haven’t missed your chance to check out Santa Fe, one of our Best Places to Go in 2024. Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe is offering guests who’re staying a minimum of two nights on the property, two complimentary local experiences. Guests have their pick of: mountain biking, a two-hour private family hike, a fireside indoor picnic in Piñon, cocoa in the Enchanted Cabin, a 60-minute private yoga session, a festive cookie-decorating kit, or s’mores in the courtyard. This offer is valid for reservations made from now until January 1, 2026.
Book a suite with Loews Hotels and get extra on-site perks
Loews Hotels is sweetening its suite experience by giving travelers up to $125 daily for food and drink—the credit amount varies by location—plus free Premium Plus Wi-Fi. Currently, the hotels offering the largest dining credits are Loews Miami Beach and Loews Regency New York, but other properties still put up a good fight. Check out the offer page to find out what you can expect at your dream Loews destination.
Save 25% on your once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Maldives
Vakkaru Maldives is currently offering the Vakkaru Dream Getaway, a special promotion that promises an unforgettable escape to a breathtaking paradise. This exclusive offer includes savings of up to 25% off on room rates, discounts on thrilling island activities, and much more. Available now through December 19, guests can look forward to up to 35% off of round-trip seaplane transfers, complimentary stays and meals for two children below 12 years of age at the six restaurants on site, and complimentary usage of snorkeling equipment and kayaks during the stay.
Save 20% or more on spontaneous bookings with Booking.com
Booking.com loves a getaway deal, which comes in handy if you’re still not sure where you’re staying for that last-second trip you’re trying to pull together. The site promises at least—not “up to”—20% off qualifying hotels of all price ranges, which are sorted by destination on the site to help guide you to a decision. Booking must be made by September 30.
Save even more on your hotel bookings and travel plans with these Booking.com promo codes.
Explora Journeys will mark the holiday season with Caribbean sailings aboard EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, offering 7- to 17-night itineraries during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s!
Onboard, guests can expect seasonal décor, festive meals, gingerbread house-making, wellness sessions, live music, mixology classes, and movie nights under the stars. The “Currents of Connection” theme focuses on meaningful travel and time to reconnect.
Ports include Charlotte Amalie (St. Thomas), Terre-de-Haut (Guadeloupe), Bridgetown (Barbados), Fort-de-France (Martinique), and Basseterre (St. Kitts). Highlights range from beach days and markets to hikes and kayaking. Whether in San Juan for fireworks or at sea for a toast, each journey offers a relaxed and memorable way to celebrate the season.
THE AVAILABLE ITINERARIES
Thanksgiving
- EXPLORA I
Thursday, November 27 – Friday, December 5 (8 nights)
Miami to San Juan, visiting Charlotte Amalie, Terre-de-Haut, Bridgetown, Fort-de-France, and Basseterre. - EXPLORA II
Tuesday, November 11 – Friday, November 28 (17 nights)
Barcelona to Miami, with stops in Tangier, Las Palmas, Bridgetown, Pointe-à-Pitre, St. John’s, and Charlotte Amalie.
Christmas
- EXPLORA I
Sunday, December 21 – Monday, December 29 (8 nights)
Bridgetown to Miami, visiting Scarborough, Fort-de-France, St. John’s, Philipsburg, and Road Town. - EXPLORA II
Monday, December 22 – Monday, December 29 (7 nights)
Miami to San Juan, with stops in Ocean Cay, Charlotte Amalie, Spanish Town, and Marigot.
New Year’s Eve
- EXPLORA I
Monday, December 29 – Tuesday, January 6 (8 nights)
Miami to San Juan, visiting Jost Van Dyke, Deshaies, Bridgetown, Fort-de-France, and Basseterre. Fireworks over San Juan on New Year’s Eve. - EXPLORA II
Monday, December 29 – Monday, January 5 (7 nights)
San Juan to Miami, with calls in Road Bay, Cruz Bay, Puerto Plata, and Key West. Fireworks over San Juan on New Year’s Eve.
RELATED: My Most Memorable Voyage Yet with Explora Journeys
Will you toast the holiday season with Explora Journeys? Let us know in the comments!
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