explore-magazine-north-america-2021

NORTH AMERICA ISSUE

PORTAL OF HOPE pg. 82

COLORFUL & CURIOUS CURAÇAO pg. 10

MENDENHALL: AN UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE pg.64

MAGAZINE ISSUE 11 : NORTH AMERICA

KWIRKY KETCHIKAN pg. 52

Introduction

LETTER from the CREATIVE DIRECTOR

and travel that spans from the massive state of Alaska, which was once a Russian settlement, to the brightly painted Dutch- style buildings in Curaçao. Within these pages, you will find a glittering collage of travel essays and articles that reveal the origins of names, places and beloved traditions, some of which are familiar and some that are far from ordinary. For instance, did you know that Denali National Park and Preserve has had several name changes since 1896, but that to Alaska’s indigenous Athabascan people, Denali has always been Denali? Read about the storied past of Key West and its iconic lighthouse. Learn about how the sport of cricket is king in the West Indies and discover some of the magnificent stadiums dotting island nations from Barbados to Trinidad and Tobago. Coinciding with the return of our ships to sea, New York’s theater district once again opened its doors, and being a native New Yorker, I couldn’t resist including an article that explored the history of Broadway. The Great White Way is a cultural institution that’s renowned around the world, yet only exists within a 12-block stretch in midtown Manhattan. In the Caribbean, a plate of traditional home-cooked food can teach volumes more than any history book, which is why

I’ve included a fascinating article about the confluence of cultural influences on the regional cuisine. Across the Atlantic, in Bermuda, the moon gate tells a hopeful story about the people that call the island home. Also worth noting is an article about the American obsession with pumpkins. As my personal favorite fall flavor, I was surprised to learn that in colonial America, this autumnal staple was a “food of last resort.” If only these settlers could see the line at the local coffee shop today. With your pumpkin latte in hand, I hope you enjoy not only reading about these extraordinary destinations across North America, but also appreciating the history of these storied places. Perhaps you will be inspired to make your own mark, like being among the very first guests to sail aboard our newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur ™, arriving in 2023. I can’t wait to join you on that history-making endeavor.

There is something about history that I think everyone can appreciate — even those of us who snoozed through the subject at school — and I believe that travel is the best way to experience and learn about our past. It’s magical to stand in the exact location of a decisive battle, climb atop the ruins of an ancient temple and savor the influences of different cultures through the cuisine of another country. I believe these experiences help us better understand our past and connect us to those who lived before us and, if we allow it, to each other today. North America may not be your first thought when seeking to explore the marvels of the past, but the more I travel throughout this region, the more I find myself enveloped in a living history. In this issue of Explore Magazine, I set out to highlight the intersection of history

Warmly,

Janice Davidson Vice President, Creative & Brand Experience Regent Seven Seas Cruises ®

MANHATTAN CENTRAL PARK, NEW YORK CITY

xxx

inside this ISSUE

indulge in the CARIBBEAN Antigua Beach Bliss.................................................... 4

Colorful & Curious Curaçao................................... 10

The Top 10 Things To Do in Barbados................ 16

embrace CANADA, NEW ENGLAND & BERMUDA Broadway: Origins of an Icon................................ 70

The Secret History Behind the Essential Flavors of Caribbean Cuisine................................ 22

The Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Museum...................................................... 28

How Pumpkins Became an American Obsession................................................ 76

The 8 Best Grounds to Watch Cricket in the West Indies...................................................... 34

Portal of Hope............................................................ 82

The History & Secrets of the Margarita............ 40

at your SERVICE

adventure in ALASKA Dungeness Delight................................................... 46

The Regent Experience........................................... 88

Immerse Yourself....................................................... 92

Kwirky Ketchikan....................................................... 52

Luxurious Suites........................................................ 96

How Denali National Park & Preserve Got Its Name............................................................... 58

Exquisite Cuisine....................................................... 98

Exemplary Service................................................. 100

Mendenhall: An Unforgettable Adventure...... 64

Onboard Lifestyle.................................................... 102

Health & Safety......................................................... 108

Terms & Conditions................................................. 110

North America Calendar February 2022 - March 2024 ...................................... 112

Watch for this 30th anniversary icon on select voyages that will host unique opportunities in 2022, as we celebrate 30 years of unrivaled experiences.

Antigua

A N T I G U A

BEACH BLISS 3 BLISSFUL ANTIGUA BEACHES

WHERE YOU CAN ENJOY A SIDE OF HISTORICAL INTEREST WITH THE SURF

BY TERRY WARD

The 108 square miles of indented coastline and verdant hills unfurling like a magic carpet across the islands of Antigua and Barbuda are home to a beach for every day of the year — a refrain you’ll often hear repeated when there. And while you could certainly spend your visit to this little corner of paradise in the eastern Caribbean hopping from one sandy stretch to the next (it’s true — Antigua has a whopping 365 beaches to explore), you’d risk missing out on some of the most fascinating historical and cultural highlights along the way. The good news is that Antigua is so compact and accessible for exploring, you can really have the best of both worlds — even during a short visit. We’ve picked three of the island’s most beautiful beaches to pair with a nearby point of historical interest so you can make the most of your time in the sun and on the sand.

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Antigua

1 PIGEON POINT BEACH & ENGLISH HARBOUR About 13 miles south of Antigua’s capital city and the cruise ship docks in Antigua, Pigeon Point Beach has calm, shallow waters that are a favorite for snorkeling among colorful tropical fish against the backdrop of a crescent of golden sand. Set up under the shade of one of the many palm trees or stands of sea grape trees lining the shore and spend your time bathing in the warm, tranquil waters. At Catherine’s Cafe, fronting the sea on the same beach, you can enjoy a relaxed French-style lunch (perhaps a charcuterie board or a fruits de mer platter). Just a five-minute drive east from Pigeon Point Beach, some of Antigua’s most storied history awaits at English Harbour and Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates to 1725 and once housed Royal Navy warships. Today, English Harbour is home to the world’s last working Georgian- era naval dockyard. It’s a pleasure to ogle the sailing yachts docked here while strolling past restored historical buildings or setting off on a heritage tour of the area with a local guide.

2 LONG BAY BEACH & BETTY’S HOPE SUGAR PLANTATION Travel about 15 miles across the island from Antigua to reach Long Bay Beach, located on Antigua’s east coast in the small settlement of Willikies. Here, you’ll encounter another heavenly strand made for kicking back and relaxing, with powdery white sands lapped by gin-clear waters. On the island’s Atlantic side, the waters at Long Bay Beach can sometimes be rougher than elsewhere on Antigua. But when it’s calm enough for a swim, you’ll

want snorkel gear in tow, too, as eagle rays and all manner of reef fish can often be seen patrolling the shallowing waters. On your way back to Antigua along the road from Long Bay Beach, make time to stop at Betty’s Hope, a historic sugar plantation that dates to 1651 and was one of the first on Antigua. You can see two of the more than 100 sugar mill towers that dot Antigua here. In the onsite interpretive center, learn more about the hardships endured by the people brought here from Africa as slaves who later worked on the plantations as laborers, following their emancipation in 1834.

3 MORRIS BAY BEACH & WALLINGS NATURE RESERVE There’s no drive through Antigua’s interior that’s more scenic than the one along Fig Tree Road, which winds through the island’s most beautiful and lush stretch of rainforest on its way to the coast. Along the 13-mile-long route, pull off the road to stretch your legs with a morning hike from the reservoir at Wallings Nature Reserve. The Victorian- style industrial terraces built here by the British in 1890 are mostly dry now, but the surrounding rainforest beckons for a leisurely hike. The trail from the dam to the viewpoint atop Signal Hill (roughly 2.5 miles out and back) is shaded by a canopy of some 40 tree and plant species that include mahogany, wild passionfruit, hog plums and Dominican kidney mango. Once you emerge into the open expanses of a field of lemongrass blowing in the breeze at the top of the hill, enjoy spectacular views of the coastline shimmering far below. On a clear day, you can even see the neighboring islands of Montserrat and Guadeloupe on the horizon. Before continuing south to the coast, hit nearby Fig Tree Studio Art Gallery to browse colorful paintings by British painter Sallie Harker and various Caribbean artists. From there, it’s just a ten-minute drive south along Fig Tree Drive to Morris Bay Beach, which is lined with a thick grove of coconut palms. Let the jewel-toned waters beckon you in for a refreshing dip after a morning of exploring. Freelance travel writer Terry Ward is based in Florida but is frequently on the road (or at sea!) to report stories. Her work has been published by such outlets as Travel Channel, the Washington Post, Travel+Leisure and Cruise Critic. Visit her website to learn more, www.terry-ward.com.

Antigua

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DURATION 11 NIGHTS

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Ports Visited: Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Dominica, Antigua, Guadeloupe, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Barts, Martinique, St. Lucia Due to limited hotel availability, guests sailing in Concierge Suites and above will receive an enhanced hotel credit in lieu of our FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Package. A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

Ports Visited: Miami, St. Maarten, St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Antigua, San Juan, Bahamas (Great Stirrup Cay) A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

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DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS DEC 12 2022

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Ports Visited: Miami, Bahamas (Great Stirrup Cay), San Juan, St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Maarten A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

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DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS MAR 1 2023

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS DEC 2 2023

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Barts, St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

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FOR ALL VOYAGES VISITING ANTIGUA AND TO VIEW FREE UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS, VISIT RSSC.COM

CALL 1.844.4REGENT (1.844.473.4368) OR CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR

*See Page 110 for Terms & Conditions

Curaçao

COLORFUL CURAÇAO & curious

By Kathy Marris

I think the most curious thing about Curaçao, the sixth stop on our cruise, is the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, which joins Punta to Otrabanda districts in the capital of Willemstad. Also known as the “Swinging Old Lady,” it swings open using two powerful ship motors, allowing ships to access the port. So, you can be crossing the bridge and all of sudden be “swinging” through the middle of the harbor on this floating structure! The next most curious thing about it? The name “Curaçao” has become associated with a shade of blue because of the deep-blue version of the liqueur named Curaçao produced on the island. This liqueur is made from the dried peel of the laraha citrus fruit (a bitter orange), and doesn’t just come in its trademark blue color, but also can be red, orange, green, yellow, brown or clear. This Dutch Caribbean island is approximately 65 kilometers north of the Venezuelan coast. It has all the ambiance of Old Amsterdam with its Dutch-inspired, multi-colored buildings and a wide range of historical structures in and around Willemstad, which has resulted in the capital’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Curaçao

When the Dutch arrived in 1634, they built forts at key points around the island to protect themselves from foreign powers, privateers and pirates. Six of the best-preserved forts can still be seen today. Most visitors that disembark the cruise ship walk across the famous Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge and take several snaps in the process of the curious bridge, with the multi-colored buildings lining the harbor in the background, in the Punta district. A walk around town is definitely worthwhile with beautiful buildings, statues, history, world-class shops and interesting floating markets. Apart from history and Dutch inspired architecture, Curaçao has more than 35 named beaches and offers fantabulous choices for sun, sand, and surf. Some are intimate pocket beaches in finger

coves surrounded by massive cliffs, while others are expansive stretches of sand secluded by nature or bustling with activities — like Mambo Beach Club, where we stopped. We took a mini-bus tour around part of the island with an extremely informative and entertaining Dutch tour guide who filled us in on the intriguing history of Curaçao and stopped at some of the points of interest along the way, such as the Curaçao Liqueur Factory, Mambo Beach Club and various scenic vantage points. Lastly, our bus drove across the Queen Juliana Bridge. It’s one of the highest bridges in the world, at 185 feet above the St. Anna Bay, designed to accommodate the tanker ships entering the narrow harbor. The views from this bridge were stunning, however we could not stop on the bridge to take any photos.

Now, have you been dying to know what that huge “ dushi ” sign in the middle of Willemstad means? If you call someone “ dushi ,” it means you are calling them “ sweetheart ,” “ babe ,” or even “ sexy .” And that pretty much sums up what I thought of Curaçao: it is a very dushi place! Kathy Marris was 50-something when she started up the blog 50 Shades of Age nine years ago, but has since turned over another decade. She is married with two adult children and lives on the Tweed Coast of New South Wales, Australia. Kathy works as a freelance writer, often capturing the stories of her real passion: traveling and photographing brilliant destinations, both within Australia and overseas.

Curaçao

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DURATION 12 NIGHTS

DEPARTS FEB 25 2022

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INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua, St. Barts, Aruba, Curaçao, Grenada A SAVINGS OF $500 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS. ✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $3,200 PER SUITE 30TH ANNIVERSARY VOYAGE

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DURATION 12 NIGHTS

DEPARTS MAR 20 2022

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Ports Visited: Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua, St. Barts, Aruba, Curaçao, Grenada, Due to limited hotel availability, guests sailing in Concierge Suites and above will receive an enhanced hotel credit in lieu of our FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Package. A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS. ✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $1,600 PER SUITE ✛ BRIDGE AT SEA VISIT RSSC.COM/ENRICHMENT FOR DETAILS 30TH ANNIVERSARY VOYAGE

HOLIDAY CRUISE

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DURATION 14 NIGHTS

DEPARTS DEC 22 2022

DURATION 11 NIGHTS

DEPARTS JAN 21 2023

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Aruba, Curaçao, Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Barbados, Dominica, Antigua, St. Maarten A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

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DURATION 15 NIGHTS

DEPARTS FEB 8 2023

DURATION 14 NIGHTS

DEPARTS APR 21 2023

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Barbados, Dominica, Antigua, St. Maarten A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS. ✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $4,800 PER SUITE ✛ BRIDGE AT SEA VISIT RSSC.COM/ENRICHMENT FOR DETAILS

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*See Page 110 for Terms & Conditions

Barbados

the TOP 10 THINGS to do in

The easternmost island in the Caribbean, Barbados is world-renowned as one of the most idyllic and sophisticated tropical destinations on the planet. This is not only a result of the nation’s elegant hotels and beautiful beaches but the superior hospitality and welcoming kindness of its people. As a result, there’s no shortage of happenings and events on the island to keep travelers blissfully satisfied during their Caribbean getaway. From surfing to rum tasting to touring historic Bajan estates, we’ve compiled the best activities for travelers to pursue while visiting the island. Read on for the 10 best things to do in Barbados.

01 | DANCE TO LIVE MUSIC

02 | BATHE IN THE REJUVENATING WATERS OF THE BATHSHEBA POOLS Bathsheba, Barbados Travelers feeling a little worse for the wear the morning after the Fish Fry will find themselves in luck, as the Bathsheba Pools in Saint Joseph Parish are legendarily restorative. In case the relaxing pools happen to not be for you, head to the nearby Bath Beach. The beach gets its name from the mellow, warm waters waiting beyond its shores. The relaxing current is soothing enough to make you feel like you’re in your own private (oceanic) tub.

AT OISTINS FRIDAY NIGHT FISH FRY Oistins Fish Fry, #1 Craft Shop, Oistins, Barbados

Any trip to Barbados is incomplete without a visit to the weekly Fish Fry held every Friday evening at Oistins Bay Gardens in Christ Church Parish. Grab a cold Banks Beer, (the beer of the Bahamas is brewed nearby, its headquarters also located in Christ Church), and prepare for an evening of incredible seafood (truly straight off the boat), and even more phenomenal dancing. Expect to find everyone out there moving their feet to the music: Whether you’re eight-years-old or 82, the environment compels you to dance. So, our advice? Don’t be shy, and join right in. You are on vacation, after all.

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Barbados

06 | PRACTICE HANGING TEN IN THE SURFING CAPITAL OF THE CARIBBEAN Inch Marlow, Barbados Engage with the culture of the island while practicing a new skill — hanging ten, of course. Barbados is known as a surfing paradise of the Caribbean, and who better to share that history than the first professional surfer from Barbados, Alan Burke? Sign up for lessons with the man himself via Burkie’s Surf School to see what all the fuss is about.

03 | GO KITESURFING AT SILVER SANDS BEACH Silver Sands Beach, Barbados If you’re looking for a more active seaside adventure, head over to Silver Sands Beach, in Christ Church Parish (the part of the island that is also the scene of the weekly Fish Fry). Return to the site of prior intoxication and prepare to get your body moving as you learn a new activity, one that is world- renowned in this particular location: Kitesurfing. (Windsurfing is also popular.) 04 | SAMPLE LOCAL FLAVORS WITH A FRIDAY NIGHT STORIED RUM DINNER Colony Club Hotel Porters, Holetown, Barbados After exercising and relaxing, there’s really just one option left for curing a rum hangover: More rum, of course. Head to the Rum Vault at the Colony Club for a rum pairing dinner in the elegant surroundings. But it’s not just the specialty cocktails that will have you feeling stimulated, it’s also the conversation. Sign up for a four-course Storied Rum Dinner on Friday evenings with a Rum Ambassador, who will lead you through the history of the Caribbean liquor, while mixing you some of the most exquisite cocktails in the world. The next day, sign up for a Mount Gay Rum tour to witness the birthplace of the nation’s most famous export (aside from Rihanna, of course).

07 | SAIL THE TROPICAL SEAS

WITH A CATAMARAN CRUISE The Shallow Draught, Barbados, Barbados

From riding atop a surfboard to reclining upon a hammock in a luxury 60-foot catamaran, an excursion with Tiami Catamaran Cruises is a great way to spend the day. You’re in the Caribbean, after all, it’s a sin not to get out on the water. Check out your tropical surroundings during your catamaran cruise and opt for some snorkeling — be sure to keep an eye out for sea turtles. Though we encourage drinking rum punch any hour of the day, the sunset sail is particularly conducive to unwinding and enjoying the tropical vibes. So, if possible, plan accordingly.

05 | LEARN ISLAND HISTORY AT ST. NICHOLAS ABBEY

Cherry Tree Hill St. Peter, BB26007, Barbados (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)

Just because an outing is educational doesn’t mean that it has to be a buzz-kill. This historic estate doubles as a rum distillery and guests are served a sample of the house’s concoctions while visiting for a tour. The St. Nicholas Abbey tour is nothing short of fascinating, as guests are led through the 1658 Jacobean mansion, regaled by colorful stories about its eccentric owners, and the evolution of the former plantation into its current iteration today, as both a distillery as well as a museum. Not to be missed.

08 | WATCH THE SUNSET

10 | SPEND A MORNING SHELLING AT MIAMI BEACH Miami Beach, Barbados Our final selection brings us back to where it all began — Miami Beach is just a short walk from Oistin’s Beach, near the Friday Night Fish Fry. But, at Miami Beach, that bustle and energy will feel lightyears away. The coastline is well-known as being a spectacular spot for shelling, and we suggest you take a morning to reconnect with the little things in life and disconnect from the world. (Easy to do in this tranquil setting.) Officially known as Enterprise Beach, the secluded shoreline is referred to as Miami Beach by locals, though it has little in common with its American counterpart. If you’re looking for a seaside scene more aligned with the energy and bling of South Florida, head to Nikki Beach Barbados in Saint Peter Parish. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed. Katherine Parker-Magyar is the Caribbean Expert for TripSavvy, where she reports on culture, news, and events for every territory in the West Indies. She’s visited 15 of the 18 independent island-nations, and it is her goal to travel to each one (as well as all 7,000 islands, when she’s feeling ambitious). This article was first published on TripSavvy. TripSavvy.com is one of the top-10 travel information sites in the world. It’s written by real experts that speak the local language and have tabs on the best of everything in town, from cocktails to kids’ menus.

ON THE ISLAND’S WEST COAST Paynes Bay Beach, Barbados

Speaking of sunsets, travelers must head over to the west coast of the island to witness a spectacularly fiery Caribbean sunset in the Atlantic. Head to Paynes Bay Beach, in Saint James Parish, for prime viewing of the sky’s nightly, powerful display. (If only every sunset worldwide looked like those in the tropics.) Sidle up to the 1703 Mount Gay Rum Bar for a cocktail, or book a table at Daphne’s for a seaside dinner — the latter is one of Rihanna’s favorite spots on the island. Both institutions are part of The House by Elegant Hotels, an adults-only boutique resort that’s legendary for its luxury and hospitality. 09 | EXPLORE THE ANIMAL FLOWER CAVE North Point, Conneltown, Barbados Head to the island’s North Point to explore one of the most underrated natural phenomena in all of Barbados: the shimmering pools and dramatic arches of Animal Flower Cave, in Saint Lucy Parish. The natural beauty of the setting is so magical, with the light cast from the saltwater pools shimmering upon the dark cave walls, that Rihanna filmed a promotional music video here, set to her song “Diamonds.” What was she promoting? Visiting Barbados, of course. So, follow her lead. You don’t want to make Rihanna ask twice.

Barbados

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LUMINOUS SHORES EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP BARBADOS Seven Seas Navigator ®

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Enjoy all

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS FEB 5 2022

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Dominica, Antigua, St. Barts, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Lucia Due to limited hotel availability, guests sailing in Concierge Suites and above will receive an enhanced hotel credit in lieu of our FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Package. A SAVINGS OF $500 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

has to offer on these Caribbean cruises.

UP TO 66 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

UP TO 83 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

ANTIGUAN ALLURE EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP MIAMI Seven Seas Navigator ®

TROPICAL MARVELS EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP BARBADOS Seven Seas Navigator ®

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $4,999 per person

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $5,699 per person

DURATION 11 NIGHTS

DEPARTS NOV 6 2022

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS FEB 15 2022

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Barts, Dominica, Barbados, Antigua, St. Maarten A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS. ✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $600 PER SUITE ✛ BRIDGE AT SEA VISIT RSSC.COM/ENRICHMENT FOR DETAILS

Ports Visited: Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Dominica, Antigua, St. Barts, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Lucia A SAVINGS OF $600 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

UP TO 66 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

ANTIGUAN ALLURE EASTERN CARIBBEAN — MIAMI TO BARBADOS Seven Seas Navigator ®

ANTIGUAN ALLURE EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP MIAMI Seven Seas Navigator ®

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $5,799 per person

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $5,499 per person

DURATION 11 NIGHTS

DEPARTS JAN 23 2023

DURATION 11 NIGHTS

DEPARTS JAN 12 2023

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Key West, Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Grenada, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Barbados A SAVINGS OF $500 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

Ports Visited: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Barts, Dominica, Barbados, Antigua, St. Maarten A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

✛ BRIDGE AT SEA VISIT RSSC.COM/ENRICHMENT FOR DETAILS

UP TO 73 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

ROMANTIC WALKS, HISTORIC STROLLS EASTERN CARIBBEAN — SAN JUAN TO BARBADOS Seven Seas Splendor ™

ANTIGUAN ALLURE EASTERN CARIBBEAN — BARBADOS TO SAN JUAN Seven Seas Splendor ™

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $5,999 per person

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS FEB 16 2024

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS MAR 7 2024

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: San Juan, Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, Barbados A SAVINGS OF $500 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

Ports Visited: Barbados, St. Lucia, Guadeloupe, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, Bonaire, Curaçao, Aruba, San Juan A SAVINGS OF $500 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $3,600 PER SUITE

FOR ALL VOYAGES VISITING BARBADOS AND TO VIEW FREE UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS, VISIT RSSC.COM

CALL 1.844.4REGENT (1.844.473.4368) OR CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR

*See Page 110 for Terms & Conditions

The Caribbean

THE SECRET HISTORY behind the essential flavors of Caribbean Cuisine

BY ATTIYA ATKINS

In the Caribbean, a plate of traditional home-cooked food can teach volumes, more than any history book. The history of Caribbean cuisine emerged from a confluence of cultural influences, and centuries of global trading. West Africans brought callaloo, okra, and ackee to complement the tomatoes, potatoes, corn, and beans cultivated by indigenous civilizations across the Americas. Colonial powers brought meats like beef, pork, and chicken, plus staples like oranges, garlic, and onions. They say too many cooks spoil the broth, but it’s clear our food traditions wouldn’t be the same today without this legacy. Exploring the past and present through the essential flavors and ingredients of the Caribbean eats is a delicious way to learn more about the region. Salty / SALTED FISH For a boost of protein and flavor, Caribbean cooks have long turned to humble salted fish to create some of the region’s most iconic dishes. Think Trinidadian bull, St. Lucian green fig salad, and Jamaica’s national dish, ackee, and saltfish. Salt naturally draws out moisture from meats, making them resistant to mold and bacteria. To “salt cure,” fish would be coated in salt for days and then hung to dry with the help of the wind and the sun. This process dramatically increased its shelf-life, while imparting an intensely salty flavor. For centuries, fishermen around the world have used salt curing methods to preserve their fresh catch. The ingredient became a staple when it was brought to the region through the Triangular Slave Trade between Europe, West Africa, and the Americas. Vessels from Canada, in particular, would supply salted cod, a fish then plentiful off that country’s coast. Plantations relied on the then cheap source of protein as a staple provision for their enslaved populations. It remains an important part of the Caribbean diet. Today, due to cod’s growing scarcity, other types of white fish like pollock and snapper are used instead.

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The Caribbean

Spicy / SCOTCH BONNET Of all the chilis spicing up island meals, scotch bonnet remains the king of heat in Caribbean cuisine. The popular pepper is used in a variety of Caribbean dishes, adding searing spice to jerk chicken and a low key kick to everyday rice and peas. And this little nugget packs a punch as one of the hottest chili peppers in the world, up to 140 times spicier than a jalapeño. Available in shades of green, yellow, orange, and red, the scotch bonnet can be finely minced for maximum heat, or it can be added whole for a gentle sizzle. The name is derived from a Scotsman’s bonnet (also known as tam o’shanter hat) because of its distinctive squashed appearance. The origin of the scotch bonnet is not well known, but most historians trace its roots to varieties from Central and South America, and it is closely related to the habanero variety. Commercially, Jamaica remains the leading exporter of scotch bonnet pepper mash, which is used in hot sauces around the world. Other, less popular Caribbean chilis with five-alarm fieriness include Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant red Scorpion Butch T Pepper, and the 7 Pot Douglash known for its chocolate brown coloring.

Sour / TAMARIND The most vivid flavor characteristic of the tamarind fruit is its sharp tartness. Indigenous to Africa’s tropical belt, it was introduced to the Caribbean by the Spaniards and Portuguese sometime in the 16th century. Massive tamarind trees now dot landscapes across the region and have attracted a mystique of their own. In the U.S. Virgin Islands, folk tales advise locals to not sleep under their branches. The trees are believed to be haunted, so you shouldn’t sit under their shade after sunset lest spirits follow you home. These superstitions haven’t stopped cooks from harvesting the fruit’s culinary potential. Encased in a hard and brittle shell shaped like a bean, the flesh of the fruit adds a welcome complexity to both sweet and savory dishes. Due to its high acidity, tamarind is a great tenderizing marinade for chicken, beef, and pork. The pulp of the pod is an essential, tangy addition to many popular Caribbean sauces, salsas, and chutneys, and the British adopted it as a key ingredient for their Worcestershire Sauce. To create tamarind balls, a tart candy with an intense combination of sour and sweet flavors, beloved by Caribbean children, the tamarind fruit is rolled into balls and tossed in sugar crystals.

Sweet / COCONUT Picture a breathtaking Caribbean coastal vista, and odds are a coconut tree will be part of that scenic view. The tree, however, is equally treasured for its gastronomic bounty. When young, the fruit has soft, gelatinous flesh and is full of refreshing water packed with electrolytes. When the coconut has aged and dried, the flesh becomes hard. Caribbean foodies take pride in using coconuts at every stage of maturity. But it is perhaps most beloved for its sweet applications. Made from the grated dried flesh, coconut milk adds dairy-free creaminess to desserts like a blancmange, a lush custard particularly popular in Haiti. It’s also an essential ingredient in drinks like Puerto Rico’s piña colada. When dried and shredded, the meat of the coconut infuses a nutty sweetness to other traditional delights like Jamaican gizzadas, tarts filled with a spiced, sticky coconut filling. And it is an essential ingredient in Bajan cookies, a popular savory dessert steamed in banana leaves. Once made to commemorate the old British colonial celebration of Guy Fawkes Day on November 5, the treat is now popular during the island’s independence celebrations on November 30. Native to Indonesia, coconuts stand out among common island ingredients for their reputed unique arrival to the region. Scientists believe coconuts came to the Caribbean by riding ocean currents hundreds of years ago. Attiya Atkins is a writer and contributor to Island Origins Magazine. This article was originally published in Island Origins Magazine, a quarterly publication that reflects the entire Caribbean American community, celebrating the accomplishments and seeking the advice of our high achievers, exploring complex social issues, and enjoying the design, fashion and entertainment inspired by our colorful cultures.

The Caribbean

Savor the flavors of the Caribbean on these tropical escapes.

NEW ITINERARY

UP TO 83 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

RUM, DOMINICA & RELAXATION EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP MIAMI Seven Seas Explorer ®

ISLANDS IN BLOOM EASTERN CARIBBEAN — MIAMI TO SAN JUAN Seven Seas Navigator ®

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $5,399 per person

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $3,899 per person

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS FEB 21 2022

DURATION 7 NIGHTS

DEPARTS JAN 6 2022

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Bahamas (Great Stirrup Cay), San Juan, St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Antigua, St. Maarten A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS. ✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $6,800 PER SUITE 30TH ANNIVERSARY VOYAGE

Ports Visited: Miami, Cayman Islands, Jamaica O , Santo Domingo, San Juan O Overnight in port

A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS. ✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $1,200 PER SUITE ✛ 50% SINGLE SUPPLEMENT* 30TH ANNIVERSARY VOYAGE

UP TO 49 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

UP TO 52 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

EMERALD COASTS & LUSH FORESTS EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP MIAMI Seven Seas Splendor ™

TROPICAL ISLAND BREEZES EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP MIAMI Seven Seas Splendor ™

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $6,199 per person

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $5,499 per person

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS MAR 7 2022

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS DEC 3 2022

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Antigua, St. Barts A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

Ports Visited: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Barts, St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS. ✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $6,400 PER SUITE 30TH ANNIVERSARY VOYAGE

✛ 25% SINGLE SUPPLEMENT*

UP TO 52 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

UP TO 60 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

EMERALD COASTS & LUSH FORESTS EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP MIAMI Seven Seas Splendor ™

PRIMAVERA IN PUERTO RICO EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP MIAMI Seven Seas Navigator ®

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $6,199 per person

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $5,499 per person

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS MAR 11 2023

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS MAR 13 2023

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Barts, St. Lucia, Dominica, Antigua A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

Ports Visited: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Barts, Dominica, Antigua, St. Maarten A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $700 PER SUITE

UP TO 59 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

UP TO 45 FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS

LATITUDES OF GRATITUDE EASTERN CARIBBEAN — ROUNDTRIP MIAMI Seven Seas Mariner ®

CRYSTALLINE BEACHES EASTERN CARIBBEAN — SAN JUAN TO MIAMI Seven Seas Splendor ™

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $4,799 per person

ALL-INCLUSIVE FARES FROM $4,199 per person

DURATION 10 NIGHTS

DEPARTS NOV 15 2023

DURATION 7 NIGHTS

DEPARTS MAR 24 2024

INCLUDES FREE ROUNDTRIP AIR*

Ports Visited: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Barts, Dominica, Antigua, British Virgin Islands A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

Ports Visited: San Juan, St. Barts, Antigua, St. Thomas, Puerto Plata, Nassau, Miami A SAVINGS OF $300 PER PERSON IS AVAILABLE WHEN ARRANGING YOUR OWN FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS.

✛ SEVEN SEAS SOCIETY® MEMBERS ENJOY ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO $850 PER SUITE

FOR ALL VOYAGES VISITING THE CARIBBEAN AND TO VIEW FREE UNLIMITED SHORE EXCURSIONS, VISIT RSSC.COM

CALL 1.844.4REGENT (1.844.473.4368) OR CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL ADVISOR

*See Page 110 for Terms & Conditions

Key West

THE

LIGHTHOUSE & KEEPER’S MUSEUM

E S L

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Key West

The string of islands that form the Florida Keys, ends in a two-by-four-mile island known as Key West. The southernmost point of the United States of America is mostly known for its vibrance, lively nightlife and pastel conch-style architecture. Once only reachable by ship, Key West has a fascinating history, one long before Miami even existed. The historical sites in Key West each offer a part of the story, Key West Firehouse Museum, Flagler Station and Truman’s Little White House to name just a few. One of the most significant attributes to the history of Key West is the Lighthouse and Keeper’s Museum, located across the road from Ernest Hemingway’s House. THE NEED FOR A LIGHTHOUSE It was Spanish settlers that first inhabited the Florida Keys and transferred the control of the island, known originally as Cayo Hueso, meaning Bone Island, to the United States in 1821. Entrepreneur John Simonton purchased the island of Key West for $2,000 in the same year. He recognized the importance of a way station along the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico trade routes. In 1823, the U.S. Navy established a base in Key West where they would salvage goods from sunken, wrecked and ruined vessels. Due to the large number of wrecks caused by the treacherous reef that runs parallel to the islands, the need for a lighthouse became quite apparent. This would be essential for the safety of commercial and navy vessels alike. The lighthouse was originally to be built on Sambo Key, but was deemed not suitable, and instead Whitehead’s Point, the southernmost tip of Key West, was chosen. THE FIRST LIGHTHOUSE The first lighthouse was completed in 1825, at 65 feet tall and held 15 whale oil lamps housed in 15 reflectors. In 1832, when the first keeper, Michael Mabrity, died from yellow fever, his wife Barbara resumed his duties as the head keeper. The lighthouse withstood several severe storms, but the Great Havana Hurricane of 1846 brought the destruction of the structure, claiming the lives of the 14 people who had sought refuge in the tower before it collapsed. Tragically, six of Barbara’s children were amongst those that lost their lives. THE SECOND LIGHTHOUSE In 1848, a second lighthouse was built further inland, 15 feet above sea level, which is one of the highest points in Key West. The 50-foot conical tower was shorter than the original, held 13 lamps and 21 reflectors, and 10 years

later it received a third order Fresnel lens, still present at the lighthouse today. Barbara served as keeper for a total of 32 years until she was removed from her post at the age of 82 due to her pro-Confederate views, as Key West was then under Union control and remained so throughout the Civil War. Mabrity was replaced and the lighthouse suffered no interruption during the war between the states. In 1886, the keeper’s dwelling was replaced with the structure that still stands. In 1894, the tower was raised to its present height of 86 feet, as taller buildings and trees began obscuring the light, which then placed the light about 100 feet above sea level. The Coast Guard decommissioned the Key West Light in 1969, when it was turned over to Monroe County, which in turn leased it to the Key West Arts and Historical Society, who opened it to the public in 1989. The lighthouse and its associated building are operated by the society as the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum. VISITING THE LIGHTHOUSE AND MUSEUM When visiting the historical site, the inclination is to head to the lighthouse first and visit the museum afterward. However, visiting the museum first will enhance your overall experience of the lighthouse itself. The museum has original artifacts and furnishings on display and provides concise information to provide just enough insight and background into what is now an obsolete way of life. It also focuses on the women who ran the lighthouse. To reach the top of the fifteenth-oldest serving lighthouse in the U.S.A., 88 iron stairs need to be conquered (there is a small resting spot on the way up to catch a breather). Being the highest point in Key West, the breathtaking aerial views do not disappoint. Most historical sites and interesting landmarks in the area are pointed out from the 86 foot structure. The 360-degree views of the whole key can be enjoyed as you work your way around the observation deck. And if the weather is good and you time it right, experiencing sunset from the lighthouse will give you a new appreciation for the term “magic hour” as the sky flares up with an extravagant array of colors. Liesl Noel is a gifted writer from South Africa. She’s spent years traveling the world with some of the world’s most influential people prior to becoming a proud mother, middle school language arts teacher and talented freelance writer.

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