Embark on a Journey of a Lifetime
Ron & Mary's Grand Voyage 2024
Join award-winning travel journalists Ron and Mary James as they take you on an extraordinary 82-day journey from San Diego to Rome and on to Cape Town. Discover ancient wonders, sail the seas, and experience the magic of the South African Winelands. The adventure begins October 8.
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Latest Update: Exploring the Venetian Canals
A Day in The Gambia: Sacred Groves, Crocodile Pools, and Playful Monkeys
The sun rose over the Gambian coastline, casting a reddish-golden glow across the bustling port of Banjul. We exited the ship into the already steamy morning and boarded the shore excursion bus that would transport us through the smallest country on mainland Africa. A...
Exploring Dakar, Senegal: A Journey Through Vibrant Culture, Rich History, and Powerful Heritage
Dakar, Senegal Our shore excursion yesterday was a powerful reminder not to judge a destination by first impressions. As I did in an earlier post. Viewed from the ship, Dakar might seem unremarkable, with its low skyline and utilitarian port. However, the city...
Halfway Through Our Grand Voyage: Highlights from 31 Days at Sea from Venice to Cape Town
Today, we’re in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, marking the halfway point of our incredible Grand Voyage, which began 31 days ago in Venice and will conclude in Cape Town on December 20. The journey so far has been nothing short of extraordinary! We’ve visited 28...
Exploring the French Riviera Off-Season: Nice’s Elegance and Eze’s Magical Charm
Ah, the French Riviera – a sun-drenched escape for the rich and famous, from Zelda and Scott (Fitzgerald) to Jeff ( Bezos) and Leo (DiCaprio). For us, though, the Riviera is memories of crawling traffic and impossible parking on a very crowded summer day years...
Gaudí’s Vision: A Timeless Journey at the Sagrada Familia
For over a decade, Mary and I have watched Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia climb ever higher, gradually dominating Barcelona’s skyline. The exterior of this towering marvel—a fantasy sand sculpture of spires, statues, and stained glass—is enchanting in its own right, yet...
A Zara Quest on Barcelona’s Finest Day
Walking the Ramblas, we were ready for any mischievous squirt guns lurking amidst the vibrant crowd. It was a glorious Indian summer day—the nicest we’ve ever experienced in Barcelona. The city was lively, as always, but the crowds were manageable, making it easy to...
A Day of Triumph and Trials in Florence
It may be my last visit to Florence, Italy. The city was so crowded that it took a lot of the joy out of walking through its historical streets. Fortunately, our tour of the Ufitzi Galleries and an enjoyable lunch made the effort worthwhile. Just getting to Florence...
Exploring Napoleon’s Exile: A Journey to Elba’s Villa Martino and Beyond
One of the most fascinating aspects of travel for us is walking in the footsteps of historic and legendary figures, whether at Jefferson’s Monticello, my Mayflower ancestors’ Plymouth, or Fletcher Christian’s Pitcairn Island. So it was an unexpected...
Rediscovering Taormina: A Day of Shopping, History, and Stunning Views in Sicily
If there’s a tourist hotspot in Sicily, it’s got to be Taormina. We took an “on-your-own” tour of this beautiful mountain-top village, and wow—what a blend of ancient charm and high-end glamour! At first, Mary swore we’d been here before, but I...
Discovering Maltese Heritage in Every Sip: Wine Tasting at Ta’ Betta Wine Estates
The last part of our Malta tour was a wine tasting at a local winery. Ta’ Betta Wine Estates was unlike any we’ve encountered. It began with three of the friendliest winery dogs greeting our group at the entrance, where city views peeked over the top of...
Meet Ron and Mary
Ron and Mary James are award-winning travel journalists with a passion for exploring the world and sharing their adventures. With over a decade of experience, they have traveled to countless destinations, capturing the essence of each place through their vivid storytelling and stunning photography. Their mission is to inspire others to embark on their own journeys and discover the beauty and diversity of our planet.
Join Ron and Mary as they embark on their Grand Voyage Adventure 2024, a three-month odyssey from Rome to Cape Town. Along the way, they will explore ancient wonders, sail the seas aboard the luxurious Azamara Quest, and indulge in the rich culture and flavors of the South African Winelands. With daily updates, you’ll feel like you’re right there with them, experiencing the thrill of discovery and the joy of travel.
What Our Readers Say
“It’s just like being there, Ron. Ah the memories. And the food. Thanks so much for taking us along!”
– Dale Steel
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