Caitlin Richardson, Cruise Expert at Paramount Cruises

Brazil will always hold a special place in my heart. From the laid-back charm of Leme and the iconic stretch of Copacabana to the vibrant energy of Ipanema, every corner felt alive with colour, rhythm, and warmth. I loved wandering the colonial streets of Paraty, where time seems to slow down, and being immersed in the raw, untouched beauty of the Pantanal one of the greatest wildlife sanctuaries on earth. Brazil is a country that combines adventure, culture, and natural wonder in a way that’s impossible to forget, and it remains my most inspiring travel experience.

Azamara is my favourite cruise line because it offers a truly immersive way to explore the world. I love how their carefully crafted itineraries take you into smaller, less-visited ports that many larger ships simply can’t reach, giving each journey a more intimate and authentic feel. The extended stays and overnight calls allow for deeper exploration, letting you experience destinations at a relaxed pace and enjoy evenings ashore. And their AzAmazing Evenings are exactly that, memorable, culturally rich events that showcase the spirit of each place. For me, Azamara combines thoughtful travel with meaningful experiences, making every voyage unforgettable.

Peru is next at the top of my bucket list as I work my way through the New Seven Wonders of the World. So far I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Great Pyramid of Giza, Christ the Redeemer, Chichen Itza and the Colosseum, and next on the list is Machu Picchu.
The thought of exploring the Sacred Valley, seeing the Andes for the first time and experiencing the history of the Inca civilisation is something I’ve dreamed about for years. Peru feels like the perfect mix of culture, adventure and jaw-dropping scenery and another unforgettable milestone on my journey to ticking off all seven wonders.