Compass Points - Travel Newsletter - Fall 2026
Welcome Aboard
Hi everyone,
Welcome back to Compass Points!
Fall is here, and while it's been beautiful so far, the cooler weather is coming. It’s a great time to start dreaming about somewhere warm, planning that next big adventure, taking the family on a cruise, or discovering somewhere new.
In this issue, I’m sharing some of the latest travel news, a little inspiration for your next getaway, and a few tips and ideas to keep on your radar.
Grab a coffee, get comfortable and enjoy!
Happy Travels,
Julia
“The journey, not the arrival, matters.” — T. S. Eliot
🌟 Featured Destination
Celebrate New Years on the Danube
Ring in the New Year with AmaWaterways!
Looking for a great way to welcome 2027?
Celebrate New Year’s Eve while sailing through the heart of Europe.
This 7-night AmaWaterways river cruise sails from Budapest to Vilshofen, visiting Bratislava, Vienna, the beautiful Wachau Valley, Melk and Linz, where you’ll celebrate New Year’s Eve. Enjoy included luxury accommodations, gourmet onboard meals, selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and the ease of unpacking once while Europe comes to you.
Featured Getaway:
7-Night European River Cruise December 26, 2026 – January 2, 2027 Starting at $5,549 CAD per person for a Balcony Stateroom including taxes and fees, based on double occupancy.
🌎 Around the Globe
Big News for Sandals & Beaches!
There’s some exciting news in the Caribbean! Royal Caribbean Group has announced plans to acquire a 50% stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts.
The good news for Sandals fans? The brands and resort experience will remain intact. The partnership is focused on growth, with investment in existing resorts, new properties and the possibility of Sandals and Beaches expanding into new destinations outside the Caribbean.
As a Sandals Specialist, I can’t wait to see where they go next!
Now let me take you somewhere I've had the pleasure of experiencing myself...
📬 Postcard from Julia
Ireland has my heart!
Ireland is one of those places I could happily visit again and again. The people were incredibly warm and welcoming, and always happy to share a story about their home and its rich history.
One of the things I loved about travelling with a tour was getting to know the people I was travelling with and sharing the experience of visiting places I probably never would have discovered on my own. The guides know the destination and all those special places that make a trip memorable.
In Dublin, one of my favourite experiences was crafting my own silver ring. I’ve always wanted to learn how to make jewellery, and now I have a keepsake I wear all the time that reminds me of Ireland. Also, never knew I liked Guinness until I ventured to Ireland where I learned to love and appreciate it. I also learned how to pour the perfect pint!
At Blarney Castle, I climbed the very narrow, winding staircase to the top, and when it came time to kiss the Blarney Stone, I decided blowing it a kiss was more hygienic and close enough 😂
Heading north, I visited the incredible Giant’s Causeway and historic Londonderry, and spent a night at Ballygally Castle, which is rumoured to be haunted. Of course I had to climb the old staircase to see the tiny room where the ghost is said to reside. Thankfully, I came back down alone... I think 👻
In Belfast, the Titanic exhibit was one of the most moving parts of my trip. Seeing the memorial wall filled with the names of those who lost their lives made the tragedy feel very real. Also, seeing the peace walls and learning that some of the gates separating communities are still closed at night was something I knew nothing about. It was a reminder of how much the city’s history is still part of everyday life. I was given the opportunity to add my name and message to the peace wall, now I'm a part of history!
Travelling by coach and train instead of stressing about driving meant I could just sit back and enjoy the green countryside, rugged coastline and little towns along the way to my next adventure.
I’m definitely not finished with Ireland. Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney and Waterford are still on my list, to name only a few. I can’t wait to go back!
❤️ Let's Chat Travel
One of my favourite parts of being a travel advisor is hearing about the places you're dreaming of visiting.
Is there a destination you'd love to learn more about? A travel question you've always wondered about? Or maybe you have an idea for a future edition of Compass Points.
I'd love to hear from you!
Simply reply to this email or visit my website and send me your suggestions. Your idea might even be featured in the next issue.
Share Your Travel Idea
🧭 Travel Quote
“I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.”
— Susan Sontag
✈️ Until Next Time...
I hope this edition of Compass Points has inspired your next adventure.
If you're dreaming about your next getaway, have a question, or would like help planning a vacation, I'd love to hear from you.
Where will your compass point next? 🧭
Happy Travels,
Julia Benedict
Owner & Travel Advisor Shades Signature Travel
📧 jbenedict@tpi.ca
📞 705-927-4144
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