In the spirit of the season, we are taking a page from Spotify Wrapped and looking back at the moments that defined our centennial year. Welcome to our very own recap. We call it Tauck Takeaways.
To honor where it all began, guests aboard our river cruises stepped back in time to 1925 for centennial-themed celebrations. From vintage-inspired décor to invitations to dress for the era, these lively evenings brought the spirit of Tauck’s earliest days to life and created countless nights of shared celebration.
This past year, we introduced 22 new journeys and itinerary enhancements across our portfolio. From family adventures in Greece and America’s Wild West to immersive cultural experiences like A Week In… Mexico City and Oaxaca, travelers discovered fresh perspectives and new ways to explore with Tauck.
New journeys brought new places to discover. In 2025, we expanded our map to include destinations such as Mexico City, Oaxaca, Durango, Hydra Island, Zabriskie Point, and Bordeaux, adding even more depth and diversity to the Tauck experience.
We also shared exciting news for the future of river cruising. Four new riverboats were announced as additions to our growing fleet, each thoughtfully designed to elevate the guest experience. These ships will soon welcome travelers along the Seine, Rhône, and Douro rivers, continuing our commitment to innovation and destination-focused travel.
As we look ahead to the next 100 years, we want to extend our deepest thanks to our one global family. From our team in Connecticut to our supplier partners around the world, our Travel Advisor partners, our dedicated Tauck Directors, local guides and experts, and of course, our guests. Every journey is made possible because of you.
The centennial celebration may have come to a close, but the journey is far from over. We are excited to see where 2026 takes us and what is in store in the years to come.
Here’s to the next chapter.
These well-known destinations may be widely talked about, but they remain some of the most rewarding cities and attractions to visit in 2026 – as many of our guests would agree.
From lively street markets, ancient palaces, and royal tombs mixed with skyscrapers and high-tech subways, Seoul is a blend of past, present, and future. A global powerhouse that still honors centuries-old traditions, the city feels deeply special – both to those who call it home and to anyone lucky enough to pass through.
Experience the contrasts of Seoul →
Defining Gaudi’s lasting impact on Barcelona, this architectural phenomenon is not to be missed. Officially the world’s largest church, the unique patterns on the outside and the vibrant colors cascading off the wall inside make it a true marvel from all angles.
With construction set to complete in 2026, witness history in the making →
Carved by 278 miles of the Colorado River entirely within Arizona, the Grand Canyon reveals millions of years of geological history – and it’s a wonder for all the senses. The crisp desert air, the hush of the canyon winds, and rugged beauty at every turn make this place nothing short of a marvel.
Explore North America’s rugged beauty →
From high-end boutiques to the world-famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monte Carlo radiates opulence. Here, elegance is the culture, grand hotels are the normal, and the riviera glamour shines.
See real luxury for yourself →
Where libraries feel sacred, literary connections appear everywhere, and old-world charm blends seamlessly with a youthful buzz, Oxford is a city that welcomes discovery and wandering. It’s easy to get lost in this real-life fairytale.
Wander through Oxford →
Less widely visited but deeply rewarding, these destinations offer experiences that stand out in 2026.
Malta may be small in size, but it’s mighty in what it offers: dramatic cliff-lined coastlines, deep blue waters, and some of the world’s oldest temples. With a blend of European and North African influences, UNESCO-recognized cities, and the legacy of the Knights, this destination is unlike any other.
Discover Malta’s vibrant blues →
This charming stop between Florence and Rome warms the soul. With local artisans, cobbled streets, and an old-world feel, Orvieto is a living time capsule – one you’ll want to experience before the rest of the world catches on.
Find Italian bliss →
This distinctive city combines indigenous traditions, exceptional local craftsmanship, and striking colonial architecture. Its unhurried pace, outstanding cuisine, and bustling local markets make this city so inspiring.
Be immersed in Oaxaca’s vivid culture →
Don’t sleep on the “Home of the Blues!” Rooted in blues, “rock ‘n’ roll,” and soul, Beale Street pulses with music from day to night. Neon lights, open doors, and live sets make it feel like stepping through Memphis’ past.
Walk through Beale Street’s bright lights →
An unsung hero of the wine world, this region is also one of the world’s great cork producers. But what truly captivates is the landscape itself: endless cork oaks, shimmering olive groves, and vineyards that ripple across the countryside.
Fall in love with Portugal’s countryside →
Earlier this month, the top-seeded Indiana Hoosiers defeated the #9 Alabama Crimson Tide 38 – 3 in the annual Rose Bowl to advance to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff. First played over 100 years ago on January 1st, 1902, the Rose Bowl has become one of the biggest college football games of the year and, in recent years, has become part of the College Football Playoff.
Traditionally played on New Year’s Day, the Rose Bowl is just one part of “America’s New Year Celebration” alongside the historic Rose Parade and has solidified itself as one of, if not the biggest game, in college football.
In late December last year, we kicked off the new year in style by welcoming guests on our iconic “A Celebration of Roses” event – combining small group sightseeing, exclusive gala evenings, as well as a premier opportunity to watch the historic Rose Parade (in VIP seats, of course). Just a few of the tour’s many highlights include: a tour of Warner Bros Studio, a behind-the-scenes visit to the Parade Float Construction Barns, a welcome cocktail reception followed by dinner at the illustrious Beverly Wilshire hotel and a four-night stay at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in the heart of Beverly Hills.
Now how cool is this? Late last year, in celebration of our 100th year – and the start of a festive holiday cruising season – Chef Fenna and her team aboard the ms Grace surprised guests with a stunning gingerbread display showcasing Tauck’s history, captured by @tdfelixontour.
A sweet and memorable way to mark the close of our centennial year!
From February 6–22, 2026, the world’s attention turns to northern Italy as the Winter Olympics make their long-awaited return. For the first time ever, the Games will be co-hosted by two cities, with Milan taking center stage for ice events and the alpine landscapes of Cortina d’Ampezzo setting the scene for mountain competitions including the introduction of ski mountaineering.
Italy is no stranger to Olympic history. Cortina d’Ampezzo previously hosted the 1956 Winter Games, Rome played host to the Summer Olympics in 1960, and Turin welcomed athletes in 2006. What makes 2026 unique is Milan’s first turn on the Olympic stage bringing modern energy, design, and culture into the spotlight alongside Italy’s iconic mountain heritage.
Looking to visit Milan for yourself? Our Bellissima Northern Italy land journey and Rhine Enchantment, Milan to Amsterdam/Amsterdam to Milan river cruise offer two night and three night stays respectfully and for those looking to visit the place where ski mountaineering will first debut, our The Ultimate Alps & Dolomites Europe land journey offers a two night stay in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Next month, the hit reality tv series and international phenomenon, Survivor, is premiering its 50th season on February 25, 2026. Nicknamed “In the hands of the fans,” this upcoming season pits fan favorite veterans with new age winners and returnees alike in a showdown for the ages.
Since its debut on May 31, 2000, Survivor has become one of the most successful reality television franchises of all time. The premise remains simple yet compelling: contestants are dropped into remote locations where they must outwit, outplay, and outlast one another. Along the way, they build shelter, secure food, compete in physically and mentally demanding challenges, and ultimately vote each other out until only one remains, crowned the “Sole Survivor.”
Over the years, Survivor has showcased some of the world’s most fascinating landscapes, many of which mirror destinations travelers continue to dream about today on journeys with Tauck.
Destinations include:
Australia (Season 2) – featured on: Spotlight on Australia and Grand Australia & New Zealand
Kenya, Africa (Season 3) – featured on: Great Migration: Tanzania & Kenya, Kenya & Tanzania: A Classic Safari and Mountain Gorilla Safari: Kenya, Tanzania & Rwanda
Thailand (Season 5) – featured on: Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand
Brazil (Seasons 6 & 18) – featured on: Essence of South America
Panama (Seasons 7, 8 & 12): featured on: The Panama Canal & Costa Rica
Looking to prove you can survive on Survivor? Our “Legends of Scotland” family journey features a bushcraft session covering shelter-building, safe fire-lighting, knot work, and plant and animal identification, so bring your camera and get ready to send out your application to be on the next season of Survivor!
For more than a century, we’ve had the privilege of connecting with guests from across the globe – travelers whose stories, loyalty, and shared moments have helped shape Tauck’s own journey over the decades. Their reflections offered more than memories; they revealed the heart of what we do – the friendships formed, the traditions passed on, and the deep joy of discovering the world together. In gratitude, we spotlighted these remarkable travelers whose experiences have become part of our legacy.
Read their stories here →
This month, our roaming reporter Colin Treadwell recounts his recent trip to Cape Town, named “Best City in the World of 2025” by Time Out magazine.
The post Tauck Takeaways: 100 years strong (and just getting started) appeared first on The Taucker Travel Blog.
