Celebrity
2024 transatlantic cruise on Celebrity ASCENT: blog #1
2024-11-03
Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting Loire Valley with Brand g Vacations, where the spirit of queer adventure and community takes center stage. Immerse yourself in a world of personalized service, curated experiences, and the vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ+ culture.
Elevating the LGBTQ+ Travel Experience, One Destination at a Time
Embracing the Intimate and Immersive
Imagine stepping into a scene straight out of "Under the Tuscan Sun," surrounded by a diverse group of LGBTQ+ travelers, each with their own story to share. This is the essence of a Brand g Vacations experience, where the traditional party-centric cruise is traded for a more intimate, excursion-driven adventure. As you board the bus in Bordeaux, France, you can't help but feel a sense of camaraderie, knowing that you're part of a community that values connection and exploration.Personalized Service and Attention to Detail
The secret to Brand g Vacations' success lies in their unwavering commitment to service, quality, and inclusivity. "Our commitment to high-touch service is unparalleled in the industry," says Eric Poole, the Director of Marketing. From the moment you step on board, the Brand g team ensures that every need is anticipated and met, allowing you to simply relax and immerse yourself in the journey.Guests like Mark W. from Fort Lauderdale, who has booked 17 trips with the company, attest to the exceptional level of service. "It's the door-to-door service and like-minded LGBTQ guests that keep me coming back," he shares. Couples like Steve M. and David P. echo this sentiment, praising the seamless experience they've had on their three Brand g adventures.Curating Unforgettable Experiences
Your Loire Valley adventure with Brand g Vacations is a tapestry of delightful discoveries. From the charming towns of Nantes and La Rochelle to the Italian-inspired festival in Clisson, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. The trip is led by the charismatic Johnathon Gallagher, a fixture on many Brand g voyages, whose bawdy and friendly demeanor captivates guests.But the entertainment doesn't stop there. Guests are treated to mesmerizing musical performances by West End star Emma Lindars and the dynamic Wales-based performer Lee Gilbert, who has transitioned from a guest to a host and performer. These talented artists captivate the audience with a diverse repertoire, from disco hits to Broadway ballads.Embracing Diversity and Inclusivity
While Brand g Vacations may skew heavily male, the company is committed to attracting a diverse range of LGBTQ+ travelers. "Because we do skew heavily male, we try to attract women travelers who have lots of gay male friends or who enjoy traveling with a mixed group," explains Poole.On my particular trip, my wife and I were two of the four women travelers, and we were also among the youngest guests on the ship. The average age of the group was around 62, reflecting the company's appeal to a more affluent, mature demographic. However, Poole notes that Brand g is actively working to broaden its offerings to attract a younger clientele, particularly through its exotic and adventure-focused trips.Navigating Unexpected Challenges
No journey is without its challenges, and the Brand g team has proven its ability to adapt and pivot when necessary. During our trip, the rising of the Loire River kept us docked in Nantes longer than expected, altering some of our plans. However, the Brand g team quickly adjusted, ensuring that guests still had the opportunity to explore and experience the region.This flexibility and commitment to providing exceptional experiences, even in the face of unexpected obstacles, is a testament to the company's dedication to its guests. It's this attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile that sets Brand g Vacations apart, creating a truly memorable and immersive LGBTQ+ travel experience.As I reflect on my time with Brand g, the lasting memories are not just the stunning landscapes or the captivating performances, but the connections I've made with fellow travelers. I now have found family in Palm Springs and Melbourne, Australia, and I can't wait to visit them. At the core of it all, Brand g Vacations offers what most non-LGBTQ+-focused vacations cannot – a celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, a sense of community, and a deep, abiding sense of heart.