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Virgin Voyages San Juan 2026 — Color, Flavor, and Soul

Virgin Voyages St. Maarten 2026 — Dual Nations, Endless Paradise

Virgin Voyages Miami Departure 2026 — Where Your Brilliant Lady Adventure Begins

Brilliant New Year’s Ahoy! — Virgin Voyages Caribbean Cruise 2026

Sleepmaxxing Travel Wellness: How to Arrive Rested on Every Journey

Expo 2020 Dubai World Fair

Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda

Rachel Kaufman: Healing Techniques Workshop

Healing Benefits of Energy Medicine, Reflexology, and Reiki

At a Glance

San Juan: The Heartbeat of the Caribbean

The Virgin Voyages San Juan 2026 stop brings guests to one of the Caribbean’s most captivating destinations — and my home island.

For me, this port is personal. Amour Getaways is proudly based in Puerto Rico, and I take special care to help travelers experience San Juan through a local lens. Whether you’re drawn to colonial architecture, culinary exploration, or nature’s beauty, this island holds stories you’ll remember long after you sail away.

The Charm of Old San Juan

As the Brilliant Lady docks near the city’s historic heart, Old San Juan greets you with pastel buildings, cobblestone streets, and music that drifts through open plazas.

Old San Juan Puerto Rico stop on Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady 2026 itinerary

Walk through Castillo San Felipe del Morro, the 16th-century fortress guarding the bay, or visit La Fortaleza, the oldest executive mansion still in use in the Americas. Between stops, pop into art galleries, sip handcrafted mojitos, and enjoy views of the Caribbean from every corner.

Culinary Experiences that Define Puerto Rico

Puerto Rican cuisine is an unforgettable fusion of Spanish, African, and Taino heritage. I always recommend starting with mofongo — mashed plantains filled with shrimp, chicken, or vegetables — paired with a local rum cocktail.

For fine dining, try Princesse Gastrobar overlooking the harbor or Marmalade Restaurant, known for its tasting menu that celebrates the island’s fresh ingredients. If you want a more local experience, my team can arrange private tastings, rum tours, or cooking workshops with local chefs.

Into the Rainforest: El Yunque National Forest

Just an hour east of San Juan lies El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. Hike to La Mina Falls, listen to coquí frogs at dusk, and breathe in the scent of wild orchids and rain-soaked leaves.

Amour Getaways can coordinate private or small-group excursions here, ensuring a serene and personalized experience — far from the crowded group tours.

Virgin Voyages and Puerto Rican Hospitality

When Virgin Voyages arrives in San Juan, the experience feels effortless. The ship docks close to Old San Juan, allowing you to step directly into the island’s culture without long transfers.

As a local travel professional, I partner with trusted guides, drivers, and artisans to ensure my guests enjoy genuine hospitality and curated activities that align with Virgin Voyages’ spirit of authenticity and freedom.

Insider Tips for the Refined Traveler

The Ideal Day in San Juan

Morning: Tour the forts and historic plazas of Old San Juan.
Afternoon: Enjoy a private rum tasting or culinary experience arranged by Amour Getaways.
Evening: Return to the Brilliant Lady for a sunset sail past the city’s pastel skyline, where the lights of San Juan twinkle against the ocean.

This stop on the Virgin Voyages San Juan 2026 itinerary is more than another port — it’s a connection to the island I call home. Every guest who experiences Puerto Rico with me leaves feeling its rhythm, flavor, and soul.

Explore St. Kitts
Explore Miami
Brilliant New Year’s Ahoy blog

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Virgin Voyages stay in San Juan?
Ships dock from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., offering a full day and evening to explore the island’s cultural and culinary highlights.

Can Amour Getaways arrange private excursions?
Yes. As a Puerto Rico–based travel agency, I personally coordinate local experiences — from rainforest hikes to rum tastings and cultural walking tours.

What makes San Juan different from other Caribbean ports?
It’s a city that balances centuries-old history with modern energy — where music, food, and art blend seamlessly with natural beauty.

Do I need transportation to explore Old San Juan?
Most key attractions are walkable from the cruise terminal, but Amour Getaways can arrange chauffeured transportation for travelers who prefer comfort and privacy.

Plan Your Virgin Voyages Caribbean Journey

San Juan is where culture, cuisine, and connection come together — and as your local travel partner, I’m here to make your time on the island truly unforgettable.

📖 Brilliant New Year’s Ahoy blog
🎟️ View the official event page
🛳️ Book directly through Virgin Voyages

At a Glance

The Spirit of St. Maarten

The Virgin Voyages St. Maarten 2026 experience offers an extraordinary dual-nation adventure in one compact, sun-drenched island. From the moment the Brilliant Lady docks in Philipsburg, guests step into a world where two European cultures meet Caribbean rhythm.

Here, elegance and ease coexist. The French side, Saint-Martin, exudes a relaxed Riviera atmosphere with wine cafés and couture boutiques, while the Dutch side, Sint Maarten, thrives with colorful markets, casinos, and lively beachfronts. This balance of refinement and energy makes St. Maarten a highlight for sophisticated cruisers.

Philipsburg harbor St. Maarten on Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady 2026 itinerary

Exploring Both Sides of the Island

Philipsburg (Dutch Side)
Begin your day in Philipsburg, where Front Street’s luxury boutiques rival any cosmopolitan destination. Enjoy duty-free shopping, art galleries, and a scenic walk along Great Bay Beach.

Maho Beach
Famous for its low-flying aircraft and lively beach bars, Maho Beach offers a thrill unlike any other. Order a cocktail at Sunset Bar & Grill and watch as planes descend just overhead.

Marigot (French Side)
Cross the border by taxi or scooter to discover Marigot’s open-air market and patisseries. Savor croissants and espresso under striped awnings before exploring Marina Port La Royale, home to designer shops and luxury yachts.

Marigot market on French side during Virgin Voyages St. Maarten 2026 stop

Loterie Farm & Pic Paradise
Nestled between both sides, Loterie Farm provides a private nature reserve with zip-lining, hiking, and a spring-fed pool — a perfect afternoon retreat for travelers seeking balance between adventure and relaxation.

Dining and Culinary Highlights

St. Maarten’s culinary reputation is legendary. Michelin-inspired chefs and island traditions combine to create one of the Caribbean’s most diverse food scenes.

Each meal on the island feels curated — mirroring Virgin Voyages’ commitment to quality dining at sea.

The Virgin Voyages Touch

Guests of the Brilliant Lady enjoy seamless disembarkation, curated shore experiences, and easy returns aboard for evening entertainment. After exploring the island, unwind on deck with panoramic views, or join an onboard tasting session led by the ship’s mixologists.

With Virgin Voyages, luxury is casual, modern, and effortlessly elegant — exactly how St. Maarten itself feels.

Insider Tips for the Refined Traveler

The Ideal Day in St. Maarten

Morning: Shopping and beach strolls in Philipsburg.
Afternoon: Cross to the French side for lunch and art galleries.
Evening: Return to Great Bay Beach for sunset before re-boarding the Brilliant Lady.

This itinerary lets travelers absorb the essence of both worlds — the sophistication of Europe and the warmth of the Caribbean — in a single, unforgettable day.

Explore Grand Turk
Explore St. Kitts
Brilliant New Year’s Ahoy blog

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Brilliant Lady stay in St. Maarten?
Virgin Voyages docks from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., providing ample time to explore both the Dutch and French sides at a relaxed pace.

Is transportation between Saint-Martin and Sint Maarten easy?
Yes. Taxis, tours, and car rentals connect both sides seamlessly, allowing guests to cross the border in less than 15 minutes.

Are there exclusive experiences for Virgin Voyages guests?
Select private excursions and culinary tours are available through Virgin Voyages’ curated Shore Things program.

Which side is best for luxury shopping?
The Dutch side’s Front Street and the French side’s Marina Port La Royale both offer high-end boutiques, making either a worthy stop for fine goods.

Plan Your Virgin Voyages Caribbean Journey

St. Maarten’s rare dual identity perfectly complements the sophistication of the Brilliant Lady. Experience it as part of your complete nine-night itinerary through the Caribbean’s most inspiring destinations.

📖 Brilliant New Year’s Ahoy blog
🎟️ View the official event page
🛳️ Book directly through Virgin Voyages

At a Glance

Welcome to Miami

Before the Virgin Voyages Miami Departure 2026, Miami invites you to immerse yourself in its energy and elegance. This isn’t just a departure point — it’s a destination where art, ocean breeze, and fine dining blend seamlessly.

Stroll through Wynwood Walls to see the city’s renowned street art, browse designer boutiques in the Design District, or indulge in waterfront brunch at The Wharf. For travelers who appreciate modern luxury with cultural depth, Miami is the perfect overture.

Miami skyline

Terminal V — The Virgin Voyages Experience

When you arrive at Terminal V, you step into a space built for ease and anticipation. Every detail reflects Virgin’s signature style — minimalist, bright, and decidedly adult.

Upload your documents through the Virgin Voyages app, arrive at your assigned time, and sail through check-in within minutes. Champagne welcomes you on board as the crew sets the tone for nine nights of carefree indulgence.

Before You Board — Make the Most of Miami

To maximize your pre-sailing stay, consider arriving one or two days early. Here’s how to start your voyage right:

🥂 Stay in Style

Choose a boutique hotel in Brickell for city luxury or a beachfront retreat in South Beach for easy access to sun and sea. Both offer world-class dining and rooftop views of the Bay.

🍽️ Dine Like a Local Connoisseur

Try modern Latin flavors at Amara at Paraiso or Japanese-Peruvian fusion at Naoe. Miami’s culinary scene matches Virgin’s philosophy — curated, contemporary, and unforgettable.

🎨 Unwind with Culture

Visit Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) or take a sunset cruise through Biscayne Bay to get a preview of the sea you’ll soon sail.

Departure Day — When Luxury Meets Freedom

As the clock approaches five, sail-away celebrations begin. Glass in hand, watch the skyline fade into gold while live music sets the mood. This moment is more than departure — it’s a shift into ease.

For many professionals, this cruise is a well-earned pause — a time to reconnect with self or partner without emails, meetings, or obligations. The Brilliant Lady was built for that freedom.

After Miami — Your Caribbean Route

From Miami, the Brilliant Lady charts a course to five distinct destinations:

  1. Grand Turk — for sun and sea simplicity
  2. Philipsburg, St. Maarten — for dual-nation charm
  3. Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis — for island heritage and scenic railways
  4. San Juan, Puerto Rico — for color, culture, and rhythm
  5. Return to Miami — with renewed energy and clarity

Ideal for the Refined Traveler

This voyage attracts a clientele that values quality and ease over crowds and chaos. It’s for professionals who invest in well-being through travel — executives, entrepreneurs, and leaders who see luxury as a state of balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Virgin Voyages departing from Miami unique?
Unlike traditional cruises, Virgin Voyages offers an adults-only experience with Michelin-curated dining, all-inclusive luxury, and modern wellness spaces from day one.

Should I arrive in Miami before my cruise date?
Yes. Arriving one day early reduces travel stress and lets you explore the city’s art and culinary scene before boarding.

How long is the Brilliant New Year’s Ahoy cruise?
It’s a nine-night voyage that visits four Caribbean ports and returns to Miami on day ten.

What type of traveler is this cruise best for?
Couples and professionals who value privacy, wellness, fine dining, and authentic cultural immersion.

Plan Your Virgin Voyages Caribbean Cruise

Ready to begin your journey? Start with the full overview of the Brilliant New Year’s Ahoy voyage and secure your suite before cabins sell out.

📖 Brilliant New Year’s Ahoy
🎟️ View the official event page
🛳️ Book directly through Virgin Voyages

Sail Into the New Year with Virgin Voyages

Celebrate 2026 in style on Virgin Voyages’ Caribbean Cruise Brilliant Lady — a luxury, adults-only 9-night Caribbean voyage designed for travelers who crave freedom, wellness, and unforgettable fun. Departing roundtrip from Miami, this cruise blends sun-drenched islands, curated cuisine, and Virgin’s signature flair.

Click here to learn more about this trip and see pictures of the cabins.

Caribbean Destinations You’ll Love

Miami, Florida

Your adventure begins at Terminal V, where check-in is effortless and your champagne welcome awaits. Enjoy Miami’s iconic skyline as you sail away into a new year.

Terminal V

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos

A postcard-perfect stop with white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Explore coral reefs, sip local rum, or relax in a beachside cabana.

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos

Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Dual-nation charm meets island luxury. Shop boutique streets, lounge at Maho Beach, or savor French-Caribbean cuisine with ocean views.

Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis

Ride the open-air St. Kitts Scenic Railway for mountain panoramas, then unwind at Cockleshell Bay or Frigate Bay’s golden shores.

Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Walk Old San Juan’s colorful cobblestone streets, visit the historic Castillo San Felipe del Morro, or escape into the lush El Yunque Rainforest — all before re-boarding for sunset cocktails on deck.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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The Virgin Voyages Experience

Cabins & Pricing

Exclusive Offer

Book through Amour Getaways, your certified Virgin Voyages partner, and get 70 % off your second Sailor + instant savings.
Experience the Brilliant Lady — where luxury meets liberation.

Get Your Quote Now →

Sleepmaxxing & Travel: How to Arrive Rested on Every Journey

Travel should renew you—not drain you. Sleepmaxxing travel wellness is the art of optimizing sleep in motion so you land clear, calm, and energized. Use the steps below to build a simple, repeatable system for better rest before, during, and after every trip.

At Amour Getaways, we believe your rest is your greatest currency. When you land rested, you show up more present, more alive. Here’s how to weave sleepmaxxing into your travel plans.

What is Sleepmaxxing?

Sleepmaxxing is the practice of optimizing sleep in every way — light, temperature, ambient sound, rituals, wearables. It’s trending across social platforms as people seek deeper, more restorative rest.

4 Sleepmaxxing Travel Wellness Strategies

1. Prep Your Travel Sleep Environment

Sleepmaxxing hacks for travel rest

2. Pre-Trip Sleep Reset

Start syncing with your destination time zone a few days ahead. Shift your sleep and light exposure gradually.

Optimized sleepmaxxing hotel setup for travelers

3. Flight & Hotel Rituals

4. Use Wearables & Smart Tracking

Devices like the Oura Ring or Whoop can help you measure sleep stages, recovery, and help fine-tune your routine.

Jet Lag, Ritual & Regeneration

Sleepmaxxing helps with jet lag, but pairing it with ritual amplifies its effect. At Amour Getaways, we incorporate pre-sunset wind-downs, sound baths before bed, herbal teas, and sunrise integration to help reset your circadian rhythm naturally.

Circadian rhythm reset for jet lag recovery

Cross Voices & Invitation

You don’t travel alone — your wellness community is strong.

When you journey with Amour Getaways, we don’t just plan your itinerary — we co-create your rest, so you arrive lit from within.

👉 Explore our sleepmaxxing travel wellness retreats and travel with alignment, not exhaustion.


Expo 2020 Dubai World Fair October 20,
2020-April 10, 2021. 190+ countries, 200+ restaurants, 60+ shows daily

Every five years or so, since 1851, countries of the world have come together in an elaborate, months-long celebration of human achievement. Known as World Fairs or World Expos, these events have debuted transformative innovations and iconic buildings, while connecting global communities in the pursuit of universal goals.

In this tradition, Dubai will host what promises to be an HISTORIC WORLD PARTY for six months, October 20, 2020-April 10, 2021.

Book an Expo 2020 Dubai package today!! 

Ask us about all of our available packages.

Eiffel Tower Space Needle
The Eiffel Tower was built for
the World’s Fair of 1889.
The Space Needle was built for
the World’s Fair of 1962.
1876 telephone 1893 Ferris Wheel FDR televised from 1939 World's Fair
The telephone debuted
to the public at the
1876 World’s Fair
in Philadelphia.
The Ferris Wheel was
introduced in Chicago
at the 1893 World’s Fair.
FDR’s televised
opening of the 1939
World’s Fair in NYC
introduced TV to the
public at large.
What exciting new developments and
extraordinary feats of engineering and design will be revealed at the next
World's Fair, EXPO 2020 Dubai?

Let us book your trip to the next World’s Fair, EXPO 2020.

Join an Amour Getaways group during October 2021

An exclusive all-inclusive resort on the shores of the Caribbean Sea set in the most exotic natural environment. Enjoy a family vacation at Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda to create the best of memories.

Rachel Kaufman is a Usui Reiki Master, a Mahatma Reiki Practitioner, and a Certified Reflexologist (Ingham method). She has been practicing Reiki since 2001 and Reflexology since 2006.

Rachel studied the art and science of Essential Oils for mental, physical and emotional issues at Tulsi Holistic Living, and with Alchemist Mikael Zayat, and often incorporates essential oils into treatment sessions to deepen healing benefits. She studied basic Shamanic healing techniques with Alberto Villoldo at the Omega Institute in NY. Rachel is also trained in the use of the Aqua Detox Foot Bath, which helps remove toxins and acidity from the body.

Her intention during a session is to provide a safe space for her clients to heal, relax, re-balance, and expand. Rachel is known among her peers and clients to be warm-hearted, caring, an intuitive healer and a good listener. She encourages clients to listen to and trust their bodies and their intuition. Rachel offers suggestions for self-care and healing at home, and if needed, provides clients with referrals to trusted naturopathic physicians, acupuncturists, and other healers in the community.

Related Reads

Rachel Kaufman’s Heeling Vibes Website

Healing Techniques Workshop for Couples in Potomac, MD

What do couples have to say about the Amour Getaways Healing Techniques workshop?

Healing benefits of Energy Medicine, Reflexology, and Reiki.

1 on 1 Couples Healing Technique Session for  Amour Getaways Clients

There are many factors that affect a person’s overall happiness and health.  In order to be able to connect with your partner on a deeper level, you have to find balance within yourself first.  Learning different healing techniques will help your overall life and if you and your partner do this together, you will be more in tune with one another by bring you closer together.

Below are several healing modalities that you will learn at Amour Getaways’ Healing Techniques Workshop for Couples in Potomac, MD.

Energy Medicine

Energy Medicine utilizes techniques from time-honored traditions such as acupuncture, yoga, kinesiology, and qi gong. Flow, balance, and harmony can be  non-invasively restored and maintained within an energy system by tapping, massaging, pinching, twisting, or connecting specific energy points (acupoints) on the skin; by tracing or swirling the hand over the skin along specific energy pathways; through exercises or postures designed for specific energetic effects; by focused use of the mind to move specific energies; and/or by surrounding an area with healing energies.

Energy Medicine recognizes energy as a vital, living, moving force that determines much about health and happiness.

To maintain vibrant health, the body needs its energies to:

Reflexology

Reflexology is the science based on the principle that each part of the feet, hands and ears are related to every organ, gland and body part. As your feet, hands and ears are reflexed (via finger pressure and thumb walking), your energy pathways unblock and your body awakens to self-healing. Reiki energy is often incorporated into the reflexology session as well.

Reflexology is beneficial for:

Reiki

Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by “laying on hands” and is based on the idea that an unseen “life force energy” flows through us. If one’s “life force energy” is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy. Reiki is a simple, natural and safe method of spiritual healing and self-improvement that people can learn to use on themselves. It also works in conjunction with all other medical or therapeutic techniques to relieve side effects and promote recovery.

Reiki is beneficial for:

If you are ready to join 3-4 couples in a Healing Techniques Workshop in the DC Metro area, please CLICK HERE to learn more.

Related Reads

Testimonial

Does energy healing really work? The Daily News puts four methods to the test 

5 Reasons to Give Energy Healing a Try

Unforgettable memories made with the best people ever! There’s nothing better than exploring the lush rainforest and beautiful landscapes of Puerto Rico! I will absolutely be booking with Karina again! Thanks again!

 

T, New Jersey 6/2022

 

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