The Cotswolds: England’s Hidden Gem

Rolling hills, open skies, ancient villages and secret gardens where time has stood still for centuries – this is the Cotswolds. A rural region in south central England known for its beautiful stone-built villages, historical towns, stately homes and enchanting gardens, the Cotswolds has come to symbolize quintessential England. 

An Art Walk in Riga

Art enthusiasts Vanessa and Robert C., spent a summer vacation cruising through majestic Northern Europe aboard Marina. Impressed with the architecture throughout the Baltic, the capital of Latvia quickly became one of their favorite ports of call.

Discover the History and Grandeur of Scandinavia & Russia

The Baltic region has many faces, and you will find new joys and unexpected delights in each one. The romance of Copenhagen is found in not only its meandering canals but also its centuries-old palaces, including the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet, a grand castle just north of the city. Riga’s reputation may be intertwined with that of the former Soviet Union, but as a historic Latvian city, it has become one of Northern Europe’s crown jewels.

Baltic Lore: Alluring Throughout the Ages

Brimming with traditions, mythology and plenty of enchanting forests and storybook landscapes, the Baltic region has long captivated travelers with its distinctive blend of bucolic beauty and cultural treasures.

The Story of the Nutcracker Doll

Ever wonder how these quintessential Christmas soldier-dolls came to be? Calling to mind sugarplum fairies, the magical ballet performance and the festive holiday season, nutcracker dolls trace their origins back to German mountain villages in the 17^th century – they were made alongside wooden toys in German workshops in the Erzgebirge region. Initially, they weren’t linked to the holidays at all, though they were often given as gifts and were considered a symbol of protection and good luck.