I recently had the opportunity to step aboard Oceania Cruises’ newest ship, Allura, and I’ll say this upfront: she is spectacular. I joined for a short sailing to experience the ship firsthand and attend the christening, and Allura made a lasting impression.

Of the many attributes of the countries in the Americas, some of our favorites are the natural beauty, stunning flora and fauna and their daring-do spirit. We went searching for these and others during our stops in South, Central and North America during the first leg of our world cruise on Regent’s Seven Seas Mariner.

The adventure began with an included two nights/three days pre-cruise in Miami: one night was spent at the InterContinental Miami and the second night on board the Seven Seas Mariner. This InterContinental hotel turned out to be comfortable, luxurious and iconic: it is from here that Miami's 35-foot neon “Big Orange” drop occurs each New Year’s Eve. The hotel has attractive contemporary décor, art including the monumental 18-foot Henry Moore "Spindle" sculpture in the lobby, and ocean views; it is conveniently located in the heart of the Magic City -- five minutes from PortMiami. Club InterContinental, the hotel's lounge for suite guests (other guests can purchase day passes for $50) offers breakfast, afternoon tea and happy hour with wine, beers and tapas. I am gluten free and found some