July 2025 - Sophisticated Travel

Recent Update: Measles & Rubella Vaccination Requirement Rescinded

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond For those of you planning travel to Honduras—whether for a luxurious Caribbean cruise or a resort getaway—there’s a notable update you’ll want to be aware of. Just last week, Honduras appeared ready to implement a new vaccination requirement for all travelers, mandating proof of measles (MMR) vaccination under Executive Decree No. 28-1-2025. This news created a ripple of concern among many of my clients, particularly those over 50 who were unsure if their childhood vaccinations still counted. Now, we’ve received clear guidance: Honduras has rescinded this requirement. What Changed? Initial reports, based ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-07-07T10:48:14-04:00July 7th, 2025|

Cruise or Villa? Why Upscale Travelers Are Choosing Both

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond For years, upscale travelers have found themselves at a crossroads: Should they book an elegant, all-inclusive cruise that whisks them from port to port in style? Or settle into a secluded private villa where time stretches leisurely and indulgence feels intensely personal? But in 2025, discerning vacationers are no longer forced to choose. Increasingly, they’re saying yes to both — combining the pampered convenience of cruising with the privacy and immersion of a villa stay. The trend isn’t just about stacking two vacations together. It’s about crafting an experience where the whole ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-07-02T12:29:42-04:00July 7th, 2025|

Greece’s New Sustainable Tourism Levy: What Cruise Travelers Need to Know

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond If you’re planning a cruise to the Greek Isles in 2025 or beyond, you may notice a new line item on your onboard bill. Beginning July 21, 2025, Greece is introducing a Sustainable Tourism Development Fee specifically for cruise passengers who disembark in Greek ports. While the fee itself is modest, it represents a significant shift in how Greece is approaching tourism sustainability and the future of its most iconic destinations. Applies if You Step off the Ship Unlike the existing hotel tax aimed at overnight stays, this new measure applies only ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-07-02T13:09:26-04:00July 5th, 2025|

Greece’s Tourist Tax: What Upscale Travelers Need to Know

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond For centuries, Greece has enchanted travelers with its sun-soaked islands, ancient ruins, and warm Mediterranean hospitality. But in 2024, the country quietly introduced a new “climate resilience” levy aimed at preserving its natural and cultural treasures in the face of climate change. As of 2024 and continuing into 2025, this new tourist tax applies to hotel stays across the country—and while it won’t break the bank for luxury travelers, it’s something savvy visitors should understand before booking their next Grecian getaway. What Is the New Greek Tourist Tax? Officially dubbed the “climate ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-07-02T10:37:38-04:00July 4th, 2025|

Why September Is the Secret Sweet Spot for Luxury Cruising

"The Unvarnished Traveler" by Brian Raymond When it comes to timing a luxury cruise, most travelers instinctively aim for the high season: June, July, or December holidays. But those in the know—seasoned cruisers, savvy travel advisors, and luxury line loyalists—understand that the true magic often happens in September. It is the month that quietly offers the best of everything: premium weather, fewer crowds, better pricing, and access to exclusive experiences that can feel unavailable during peak summer months. If you’re planning your next upscale voyage, September might just be your golden ticket. The Golden Glow of Shoulder Season ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-07-02T11:29:36-04:00July 2nd, 2025|

New Honduras Requirement: Measles Vaccination for Visitors

In a recent development aimed at enhancing public health safety, Honduras has implemented a new requirement for all visitors to present proof of measles vaccination (MMR vaccine) upon entry into the country. This requirement comes amidst global efforts to mitigate the spread of preventable diseases, echoing similar measures previously adopted for Covid-19. Impact on Different Age Groups Older Adults and Those Born Before the Vaccine For individuals born before the widespread adoption of the measles vaccine in the 1960s and 70s, obtaining proof of vaccination may pose a challenge. Many countries, including Honduras, require proof of immunity for travelers ......

By Brian Raymond|2025-06-30T12:02:46-04:00July 1st, 2025|