The Roaming Boomers

Virtuoso luxury travel advisors. Award-winning #luxurytravel blog & #travelagency. Let's go have fun! 😀#RiverCruise #OceanCruise #ExpeditionCruise

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

American travelers are fed up—and frankly, so are we.

Holding up funding for essential services like TSA isn’t strategy—it’s dysfunction.

From where we sit in the travel industry, the impact is real: uncertainty, disrupted plans, and growing frustration from clients who expect better from Washington.

The Senate’s job is to govern—not grandstand.

Break the gridlock. Cross the aisle. Get it done.

#roamingboomers #travelindustry #traveldisruptions #TSA

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

Windstar Cruises and the James Beard Foundation: A Decade of Culinary Excellence at Sea. Learn more about this historic relationship: https://t.co/qrhNEMQUHf

#WindstarCruises #JamesBeardFoundation #CulinaryExcellence #CulinaryJourneys #FoodieCruise #LuxuryTravel #CulinaryAdventures #CruiseDining #RoamingBoomers #StarLegend

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

It is now Sunday, March 2nd, 2025, and it's time for us to board the Windstar Star Legend.

The Windstar Star Legend is an elegant, all-suite luxury yacht designed for travelers who seek an intimate and immersive cruising experience. With a capacity of just 312 guests, the ship offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, blending world-class service with a casual, yacht-style ambiance. Recently revitalized as part of a multi-million-dollar enhancement project, Star Legend boasts spacious suites, many with private verandas, featuring plush bedding, elegant décor, and modern amenities.

Dining is a highlight, with multiple venues offering locally inspired, gourmet cuisine. Windstar has an exclusive partnership with the James Beard Foundation, bringing award-winning chefs and curated menus onboard. This collaboration ensures guests enjoy exceptional culinary experiences, from signature dishes to special themed dinners and cooking demonstrations.

Beyond dining, the yacht features a spa and fitness center, a water sports platform, and an open-bridge policy, allowing guests to interact with the ship’s officers. Its small size allows access to unique ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach, offering off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Caribbean.

Combining luxurious comfort with immersive travel experiences, the Star Legend delivers a boutique-style voyage, making it ideal for those who appreciate fine cuisine, intimate settings, and unique destinations.

#WindstarCruises #StarLegend #LuxuryCruise #LuxuryTravel #MediterraneanCruise #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

It was Saturday, March 1st, 2025, and this was the day we set aside to explore Barcelona. After our morning tour of Sagrada Familia, we strolled the high-end shopping district of Passeig de Gràcia (see previous post). Then, we headed toward the Mediterranean Sea to stroll La Rambla.

"La Rambla is Barcelona’s most famous boulevard, stretching 1.2 kilometers from Plaça de Catalunya to the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell. Lined with towering plane trees, the lively promenade is a hub of activity, packed with street performers, artists, flower stalls, and bustling cafés. Locals and tourists alike stroll its wide pedestrian walkway, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Historic landmarks such as the Gran Teatre del Liceu, a world-renowned opera house, and the colorful Mercat de la Boqueria, a paradise for food lovers, make La Rambla a must-visit. Despite its charm, visitors should be mindful of pickpockets in the crowded areas. By day, it’s a delightful place for people-watching and exploring, while at night, it transforms into a lively entertainment hub. Whether you’re sipping coffee at a terrace, browsing street art, or admiring Gothic architecture, La Rambla captures the essence of Barcelona’s dynamic spirit." (via ChatGPT)

As you can see in my photo, La Rambla was packed. We were shocked at how busy it was so early in the year. I can only say that we were thankful we weren't here later in the year. It would have been miserable.

#Barcelona #LaRambla #windstarcruises #starlegend #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

Do you like shopping in high-end stores and boutiques? Then Barcelona's Passeig de Gràcia is the place for you.

"Passeig de Gràcia is one of Barcelona’s most iconic and elegant avenues, renowned for its luxury shopping, architectural masterpieces, and vibrant atmosphere. Located in the heart of the city, it connects Plaça de Catalunya to the Gràcia district and serves as a showcase of Catalan Modernisme. The boulevard is home to some of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous works, including Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (*La Pedrera*), alongside other architectural gems like Casa Amatller and Casa Lleó Morera.

Lined with designer boutiques, upscale restaurants, and historic landmarks, Passeig de Gràcia is a blend of artistic heritage and cosmopolitan luxury. Its wide sidewalks, adorned with Gaudí-designed tiles and elegant street lamps, make it ideal for a leisurely stroll. Whether admiring its stunning architecture, shopping at high-end stores, or dining at world-class restaurants, Passeig de Gràcia offers an unforgettable experience at the heart of Barcelona’s cultural and commercial life." (via ChatGPT)

#PasseigDeGracia #BarcelonaShopping #LuxuryShopping #HighEndFashion #CatalanModernisme #ShopLocalBarcelona #GaudiArchitecture #BarcelonaBoutiques #LuxuryLifestyle #windstarcruises #starlegend #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

Barcelona is renowned for its tapas.

"Tapas in Barcelona have deep historical roots, influenced by Catalonia’s Mediterranean culture and Spain’s broader culinary traditions. The origins of tapas date back to medieval Spain, where small portions of food were served with drinks to prevent intoxication. In Barcelona, tapas evolved uniquely, incorporating fresh seafood, cured meats, and local ingredients like pan con tomate (bread with tomato). The city's vibrant markets, such as La Boqueria, played a key role in shaping tapas culture. Over time, tapas bars flourished, blending traditional flavors with modern gastronomy, making Barcelona a global destination for these small, flavorful dishes paired with wine or vermouth." (via Perplexity)

We inquired with the concierge at our hotel about finding us some excellent tapas near the hotel. He hit it out of the park with Colmado Múrria.

"Colmado Múrria is a historic delicatessen in Barcelona, located in the Eixample district. Established in 1898, it started as a coffee roaster and wafer manufacturer before evolving into a gourmet shop known for its high-quality products. The store is famous for its stunning Art Nouveau façade, featuring original 1920s advertisements and artwork. Inside, it retains its classic mahogany furnishings, offering premium cured meats, cheeses, and wines. In 2022, it expanded to include a tasting bar and restaurant. Now a blend of tradition and modern gastronomy, Colmado Múrria remains a must-visit for food lovers in Barcelona." (via Perplexity)

For our tapas, we shared peas drowned in cod brandade and pea cream, Catalan noodles with pellets and sausages, and veal cheeks at low temperature with cacao mince. Absolutely delish!

#TapasBarcelona #BarcelonaEats #MediterraneanCuisine #CatalanFood #FoodieInBarcelona #GourmetTapas #TapasCulture #DiscoverBarcelona #ColmadoMurria #windstarcruises #starlegend #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

Another of Antoni Gaudi's masterpieces was just a few blocks from our hotel: Casa Milá.

"Casa Milà, also known as *La Pedrera* (The Stone Quarry), is one of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous architectural masterpieces in Barcelona. Completed in 1912, this UNESCO World Heritage site showcases Gaudí’s signature organic forms, inspired by nature. The building’s undulating stone façade, adorned with intricate wrought-iron balconies, gives it a fluid, almost sculptural appearance. Its innovative design includes a self-supporting stone structure, natural ventilation, and an underground garage—unheard of at the time.

One of its most remarkable features is the rooftop, where surreal chimneys and ventilation towers resemble abstract sculptures, offering breathtaking views of the city. Originally built as a luxury residential complex, Casa Milà now serves as a cultural center, hosting exhibitions and guided tours. It remains a prime example of Catalan Modernisme and an essential stop for visitors exploring Barcelona’s architectural wonders along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia." (via ChatGPT)

#CasaMilà #AntoniGaudí #GaudíArchitecture #Barcelona #CatalanModernisme #UNESCOWorldHeritage #PasseigdeGracia #windstarcruises #starlegend #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is an absolute must-see when visiting Barcelona, Spain.

"The Sagrada Família in Barcelona is one of the most breathtaking architectural masterpieces in the world. Designed by a visionary architect, this towering basilica has been under construction for well over a century and remains unfinished. Blending Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, it features intricate facades, soaring spires, and an interior illuminated by vibrant stained-glass windows.

The design is deeply inspired by nature, with columns resembling trees stretching toward the sky. Its three grand facades depict key moments in the life of Christ, while the basilica’s towers offer stunning panoramic views of the city. Though its creator passed away before its completion, construction continues today, staying true to the original vision. The final stages of the project are expected to be completed in the coming years.

A visit to this extraordinary landmark is an unforgettable experience, showcasing one of the most ambitious architectural achievements in history." (via ChatGPT)

#SagradaFamilia #Barcelona #ArtNouveau #VisitBarcelona #ArchitecturalMasterpiece #TravelSpain #ExploreBarcelona #WindstarCruises #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

Interior of the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain.

#SagradaFamilia #Barcelona #Gaudi #VisitBarcelona #SpanishArchitecture #spain #windstarcruises #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

The Hospital de Sant Pau was the first stop on our 3-hour tour with Vanessa at Context Travel.

"Hospital de Sant Pau in Barcelona is a masterpiece of Catalan Modernism, designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner. Built between 1902 and 1930, it served as a hospital for nearly a century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The complex features stunning mosaics, stained glass, and beautifully landscaped gardens, reflecting both artistic innovation and a forward-thinking approach to healthcare. Its design emphasized natural light, open spaces, and a healing environment. Today, visitors can explore its rich history, admire its breathtaking architecture, and appreciate how art and medicine once intertwined in this extraordinary space." (via ChatGPT)

#hospitaldesantpau #barcelona #spain #contexttravel #windstarcruises #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

Carol and I hired a private guide from Context Travel for our first day in Barcelona. Our guide, Vanessa (pictured), has a degree in art history, giving us a significantly higher level of expertise for our tour.

Context Travel offers tours focusing on in-depth exploration of history, culture, and art. Led by scholars such as historians and archaeologists, these experiences provide a deeper understanding beyond standard sightseeing. Tours are kept small or private, allowing for a more personalized and interactive experience. Rather than broad overviews, they take a thematic approach, diving into specialized topics with rich storytelling and expert insight. Guides bring local knowledge beyond scripted narratives, creating a meaningful connection to the destination. For those interested in learning from home, virtual seminars and experiences offer another way to engage with their expertise.

If you prefer a small-group, or private tour guide, we highly recommend Context Travel. For your convenience, here is a link to their tours: https://t.co/CT5G7JSzgh

#BarcelonaTours #ContextTravel #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

When we made our booking to once again visit Barcelona, after booking our hotel, our next reservation was at the Butafumeiro restaurant for Paella.

Botafumeiro, established in 1975, is a renowned seafood restaurant located at Carrer Gran de Gràcia, 81, in Barcelona’s Gràcia district. Celebrated for its dedication to quality, the restaurant sources the finest catches from the Mediterranean and Cantabrian seas, offering dishes like lobster Botafumeiro style, prawns from Palamós, traditional seafood stews, and Paella.
The interior exudes a classic, nautical ambiance, adorned with wood paneling and maritime décor, providing a refined dining experience. Over the decades, Botafumeiro has become a culinary landmark, attracting both locals and international figures, including royalty and celebrities.

#barcelona #spain #botafumeirorestaurant #paella #RoamingBoomers #windstarcruises

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

Right across the street from our hotel was Gaudi’s Casa Batlló.

Casa Batlló, situated on Passeig de Gràcia, is a celebrated modernist landmark in Barcelona. Originally constructed in 1877, it was transformed by Antoni Gaudí between 1904 and 1906. The house is famous for its vibrant, mosaic façade and organic forms, earning it the nickname “House of Bones” due to its skeletal-like pillars. Gaudí’s innovative design includes a dragon-like roof and intricate details, showcasing his unique style.
The building is a testament to Gaudí’s creativity and a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in architecture and art. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Barcelona’s rich cultural heritage.

#antonigaudi #barcelona #spain #windstarcruises #roamingboomers #casabatllo

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

Carol and I arrived two nights early to spend a few nights in Barcelona before our 10-day Windstar Cruises journey through Southern Spain. Barcelona is a popular cruise port in the Western Mediterranean, and spending extra time in Barcelona is an absolute must.

We have 12 luxury Barcelona hotels in our Virtuoso "Best of the Best Collection": https://t.co/P4jGynWvDX. We chose to stay at the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, for its excellent location on the famous Passeig de Gràcia, one of the most iconic and luxurious avenues in Barcelona, Spain. It is renowned for its stunning modernist architecture and high-end shopping.

For 2025, when you book a stay with Roaming Boomers Travel Services at the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona, you will receive the following complimentary VIP perks:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (excludes Signature Suites)
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay, not applicable towards the Minibar or Moments Restaurant (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Virtuoso Upgrades are from room to room, from suite to suite. Signature Suites are excluded (Penthouse, Barcelona, Premier Terrace)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi

Stay tuned as we share our adventures in Barcelona and sailing with Windstar Cruises in Southern Spain.

#Barcelona #LuxuryTravel #WindstarCruises #VirtuosoTravel #MandarinOriental #BarcelonaHotels #LuxuryHotels #RoamingBoomers #MediterraneanCruise

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

CLIENT POSTCARD: This is just in from Chris and Judy. They are sailing with Viking on a 40-day adventure that will take them from Easter Island to the tip of South America, to Antarctica, up the western coast of South America, to the Galapagos Islands, through the Panama Canal, and back to Florida. What an adventure!

Chris and Judy say they are "having a tremendous experience in Antarctica."

All I can say is WOW. Have fun, and we look forward to your next update.

Here is a link to their 40-day cruise with Viking: https://t.co/Wh8nmwJJCL

If you'd like to book this same cruise for 2026, give us a call. #roamingboomers #vikingcruises

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

CLIENT POSTCARD: This is just in from Chris and Judy as they sail with Viking on its 40-day sailing from Ushuaia to Ft. Lauderdale.

"Thank you so much for the champagne and chocolates that were waiting for us when we arrived onboard the Polaris. We're having a great time so far. The Easter Island pre-extension was amazing, now it's time for the Drake Passage to Antarctica!"

You're welcome. Have a great time on this fabulous adventure!

#roamingboomers #vikingcruises

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

https://t.co/IAqz5eUHMA

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

In this weekend's #travelnewsletter, we share the best time to visit Egypt and a fabulous new offer from Viking Ocean Cruises. Plus, offers from Explora Journeys, National Geographic, Tauck, and more: https://t.co/L4jJNq5P69

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

🐪 Dreaming of pyramids, ancient wonders, and Nile cruises? Discover the perfect time to explore Egypt's treasures! 🏺

Uncover insider tips on when to visit this mystical land, avoiding scorching heat and bustling crowds. From balmy winters to vibrant festivals, find out how to make your Egyptian adventure unforgettable. Ready to walk in the footsteps of pharaohs? Click to learn the best time to experience Egypt's magic: https://t.co/IuPnjmuFyW

#EgyptTravel #BucketList #AncientWonders #RoamingBoomers

[The Roaming Boomers @RoamingBoomers]

In this weekend's newsletter, I offer my review of having just sailed aboard the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Ilma. Further, come explore special offers from Tauck (African Safaris), Explora Journeys, and Viking. Lastly, I've included a link to our Virtuoso, The Magazine, where you'll find scores of articles offering travel tips, destination reviews, and compelling luxury travel offers. To read our newsletter, please go here: https://t.co/xtZEa4Sdii

#LuxuryTravel #TravelReview #YachtLife #TravelTips #TravelNewsletter #RitzCarlton #AfricanSafaris #ExploraJourneys #VikingCruises #Virtuoso #RoamingBoomers