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10 Best Cruises for Singles of All Ages

Here are some of the best cruises for solo travelers at any age.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Traveling the world without having to pack and unpack multiple times is ideal. And on a cruise, that's a reality as you head from destination to destination on what is basically a moving luxury hotel (or a floating city, in some cases ).

Being able to sleep in Bratislava and wake up in Budapest in five-star-worthy accommodations without having to drag all your stuff with you is as convenient as it is luxurious. But cruises aren't just for couples or families — they're great for singles as well.

Colleen McDaniel, the editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic , tells Travel + Leisure that cruises are a great place to meet new people. Some ships have single cabins, host parties for single passengers, or even waive the single supplement fee ( river cruises tend to do that most often).

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers studio cabins for single travelers that include access to an exclusive lounge with complimentary espresso and snacks. "One of the benefits of sailing as a single is cruises are generally social. That's how they're designed," McDaniel says. "If you're somebody who's comfortable traveling by themselves and looks to make friends on vacation, there's no shortage of people you're going to meet."

But while younger travelers might want to hop around Europe and party every night, someone in their 50s may be interested in a longer cruise with opportunities for cultural immersion. Whatever your travel style, here are the best cruises for singles of any age.

Cruises for Singles in Their 20s

Cruises that last three to five nights are great for singles in their 20s, in part because they're less expensive, McDaniel says. If you do end up having to pay for a single supplement, "it's a little bit less of a hit to your wallet."

New cruise line Virgin Voyages offers exciting journeys aboard their ultra-Instagrammable ship, Scarlet Lady . The four-night Fire and Sunset Soirees cruise from Miami is ideal for travelers in their 20s or 30s looking for a healthy mix of party and wellness. All cruisers must be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 upon boarding.

Another great option is a three-day cruise to the Bahamas from Miami on Norwegian Sky . The ship was refurbished in 2019 and offers 10 dining options, a full-service Starbucks, and a casino for late-night bonding around the blackjack table with your new shipmates. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required upon boarding for guests ages 12 and up.

Cruises for Singles in Their 30s

According to McDaniel, cruisers in their 30s are likely looking for a good mix of "bustling nightlife and engaging in classes, but they also really want to explore and experience culture." She says river cruises that offer things like silent discos and paint-and-wine classes appeal to this age group.

The eight-day Vienna Vibe cruise from U by Uniworld is a great option (note the cruise line is on hiatus until 2023). This cruise line was originally built to cater to millennials, and this itinerary includes excursions like a walking tour of Vienna and biking around Passau. On board, morning yoga classes and a rooftop ice bar ensure guests will always have something to do. A negative COVID-19 test may be required for unvaccinated passengers when entering foreign countries.

Other travelers might want to opt for a South American adventure with National Geographic. The 10-day Upper Amazon river cruise aboard the Delfin II offers a chance to spot diverse wildlife within this impressive ecosystem.

Cruises for Singles in Their 40s

Upscale, bigger cruises on ships from Princess, Holland America, and Celebrity will likely appeal to cruisers in their 40s, McDaniel says. These cruises tend to be a bit more expensive, but "appeal because they have some really great excursions and might go off the beaten path. They're destination-immersive experiences."

The seven-night Galapagos Southern Loop on Celebrity Xpedition is one fantastic option. The Galapagos Islands are a great destination for solo travelers and this cruise is a solid way to see them. Search for sea turtles, sea lions, and blue-footed boobies during the day, and spend the evening in the ship's hot tub or take in one of the nightly lectures by certified naturalists from the Galapagos National Park. All guests must be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 upon entry.

A seven-day Norwegian Fjords cruise aboard Princess Cruises' Sky Princess is an additional option for travelers hoping to explore another part of the world best seen from a ship.

Cruises for Singles in Their 50s

McDaniel says that a river cruise is a great option for someone in their 50s, with some lines waiving the single supplement fee and putting age restrictions on passengers (since you may not want little kids running around). Some companies, she notes, do a great job of hosting single mixers, which adds to the social experience. A cruise along the Danube or Rhine rivers is always a great choice, and there are several lines to choose from.

Sail along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers on Viking's Grand European Tour , which starts in Amsterdam and ends in Budapest. Along the way, the ship stops in charming towns and major European capitals for a well-rounded trip through continental Europe.

The twelve-day Cities of Light cruise , also from Viking River Cruises, carries passengers between Paris and Prague with several stops in Germany along the way. On board, sip a glass of wine and enjoy the sight of the cities slipping by. For both Viking Cruises, guests must be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 upon boarding.

Cruises for Single Seniors

A world cruise is a great option for seniors, McDaniel says, as they tend to have more free time. These cruises visit multiple countries over a longer period of time, and after a while, the boat feels like home.

"One of the great things about being a senior is you tend to have a far more flexible schedule," she says. "You also likely have a bit more disposable income."

The 71-day Grand Africa Voyage from Holland America Line offers a round-trip journey from Fort Lauderdale, stopping in Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Greece, Jordan, Tanzania, Madagascar, South Africa, and more on its cruise around the African continent. All guests must be fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 upon arrival.

Cunard's Centenary World Voyages is even longer, at 117 nights aboard the Queen Mary 2 . The cruise includes two transatlantic crossings and stops across Asia, South Africa, and Australia, departing and arriving in New York City. On a cruise this long, even the shiest solo traveler is bound to make a few friends. All guests ages 12 and up must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 14 days prior to travel.

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SOLO CRUISES FOR SINGLES & SOLO TRAVELLERS

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CRUISES FOR SINGLES & SOLO CRUISING

Best for solo travellers - cruise critic's 2023 editors' picks awards.

The best experiences last a lifetime - solo travel is one of them. The ability to explore, take chances, meet new people and do what you want when you want. To trade stories, and cocktails, with like-minded travellers from around the world. Or to sail with a group, on your own terms. Now when you cruise solo with Norwegian, you'll enjoy more freedom and choice than ever. We've doubled the number of Solo Staterooms across our fleet by adding Solo Balcony and Oceanview rooms, in addition to Inside rooms and Studios. The best part? The savings! Traditional double occupancy rates do not apply. So come aboard with friends or family - or take time to meet new people, then watch the sunset from your private balcony. After all, you're pretty good company.

Exclusively for one STUDIO STATEROOMS

Studio Stateroom for Singles Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. Our Studios are the perfect sized room for solo cruising and the Studio Lounge is a great way to meet other single cruisers.

The choice is yours ADDITIONAL STATEROOMS

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travellers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book - these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

Exclusively for one

Studio staterooms.

The choice is yours

Additional staterooms.

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travelers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book — these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

* Studio Lounge and accessibility varies by ship.

Things to Know:

Why cruise with ncl solo.

BEST CRUISES FOR SINGLES

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR CRUISE

WHY CRUISE NORWEGIAN SOLO

Unleash the Fun: the Ultimate Carnival Singles Cruise Guide

Calling all solo travelers!

If you’re on the hunt for a unique way to meet new people, forge lasting connections, and add a dash of romance to your travels, then a Carnival singles cruise might just be what you’re looking for.

Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper.

It’s not merely about finding a date; it’s about immersing yourself in a vibrant community of singles who share your sense of adventure.

With activities and events designed to bring people together, from cocktail mixers to group excursions, every aspect of the cruise is crafted to spark connections and create memorable experiences.

Imagine waking to the gentle sway of the ocean, filled with anticipation for the day’s adventures.

Whether it’s exploring exotic locales with new friends, dancing the night away under the stars, or enjoying a quiet conversation over dinner with a view, every moment is an opportunity to meet someone special and make every day of your cruise an adventure.

So, are you ready to take the leap into a journey filled with potential and excitement?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Carnival singles cruises, from choosing the right itinerary to making the most of every onboard activity and social opportunity.

Let’s embark on this journey together, and discover the endless possibilities that await on the open sea.

Your Carnival singles cruise adventure starts now!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate Carnival Singles Cruise Guide

Embarking on a singles cruise can be the start of an unforgettable adventure, and there’s no better way to dive into this exhilarating experience than with Carnival’s renowned singles cruises.

Imagine setting sail on a voyage where every detail is curated with the sole purpose of connecting you with like-minded adventurers, all while basking in the luxury and excitement of a Carnival cruise ship.

This guide is your first step into a world where the sea becomes your backdrop for romance, friendship, and endless entertainment.

Are Carnival Cruises Good For Singles?

Carnival Cruises are a fantastic choice for singles looking to dive into the cruising lifestyle, and there are several compelling reasons why.

1. Vibrant Social Scene

Carnival Cruises are renowned for their lively atmosphere and dynamic social scene.

With a diverse array of onboard activities and events specifically designed to encourage interaction and fun, you’ll find it incredibly easy to meet new people. From themed nights and dance parties to group activities and workshops, there’s always something happening that brings singles together.

2. Tailored Activities for Singles

Understanding the unique dynamics of solo travelers, Carnival often organizes events that are exclusively for singles. These can range from welcome mixers on the first day to special excursions that are perfect for making connections.

These activities are not just about meeting potential romantic interests; they’re also great for finding travel buddies and making new friends.

3. Diverse Age Groups

One of the best things about Carnival singles cruises is the wide range of age groups they attract. Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or beyond, you’ll find fellow travelers in the same stage of life.

This diversity ensures that everyone can find peers to connect with, making the cruise experience enjoyable for all.

4. Freedom and Flexibility

Traveling solo on a Carnival Cruise offers an unparalleled level of freedom and flexibility. You can choose to join in the group activities or explore on your own.

It’s the perfect balance of having the opportunity to be social when you want and finding moments of solitude when you need them. Plus, with the ship’s staff always ready to assist, you’ll feel well taken care of throughout your journey.

5. Safe and Secure Environment

For singles, safety can be a significant concern, but Carnival Cruises provide a secure environment where you can relax and enjoy your vacation. With security measures in place and a crew that’s always on hand to assist, you can feel safe as you meet new people and explore new destinations.

Don’t Forget The Mixers

Carnival Cruises goes above and beyond to ensure that every solo traveler feels welcomed and included, making it an exceptional choice for anyone setting sail on their own. One of the standout features of Carnival Cruises is their inclusive approach to social gatherings, offering dedicated singles mixers and LGBT meet-ups. These events are a golden opportunity to connect with fellow solo travelers who share similar interests and are looking to make new friends or perhaps find that special someone.

Attending these mixers and meet-ups can transform your cruise experience, providing a warm and friendly environment where connections are natural and effortless. Whether you’re looking to share a laugh over a cocktail, find a companion for shore excursions, or enjoy a dinner with new friends, these gatherings are designed to create moments of connection and camaraderie.

To take your social planning to the next level, joining a Facebook group for your specific sailing is a brilliant move. These online communities are a hub for pre-cruise introductions and organizing meet-ups. By connecting with other singles before you even step on board, you can arrange to meet a group of like-minded travelers, ensuring you have a friendly face to look forward to seeing on the ship. This pre-cruise connection can make your embarkation day even more exciting, knowing that your solo adventure is already off to a social start.

Joining these groups not only allows for arranging meet-ups but also serves as a platform for sharing tips, excursions plans, and maybe even finding a cabin mate to avoid single supplements. It’s a resourceful way to maximize your cruise experience, ensuring that from day one, you’re part of a community looking to make the most out of their Carnival cruise adventure.

So, if you’re embarking on a Carnival cruise solo, remember to check out the singles mixers and LGBT meet-ups onboard. And don’t forget to join your sailing’s Facebook group ahead of time. It’s these connections that can turn a great vacation into an unforgettable journey filled with new friendships and incredible memories.

List of Carnival Singles Cruises In 2024

Throughout 2024 Carnival have scheduled a series of unforgettable journeys where each cruise offers its own unique adventure, setting sail to some of the most breathtaking destinations the world has to offer.

• 10 March 2024  – Western Caribbean cruise on Carnival Horizon (6 nights)
• 25 May 2024  – Memorial Day Caribbean cruise on Carnival Horizon (8 nights)
• 27 June 2024  – Alaska cruise on Carnival Luminosa (7 nights)
• 13 July 2024  – Caribbean cruise on Carnival Celebration (8 nights)
• 7 September 2024  – Caribbean cruise on Carnival Firenze (7 Nights)

Does Carnival Have Single Cabins?

Navigating the world of solo cruising with Carnival may look a bit different compared to other cruise lines, particularly when it comes to accommodations. It’s noteworthy that Carnival does not offer single staterooms, a unique aspect that sets it apart from some of its competitors. This means that solo travelers are required to book double staterooms and, in turn, face a single supplement fee. This fee often equates to 100% of the cost, essentially requiring solo travelers to cover the expense as if for two guests. Such a policy underscores the importance of planning and budgeting for those looking to embark on a Carnival cruise alone.

However, it’s not all set in stone. Carnival understands the unique position of solo travelers and occasionally offers special deals to make solo cruising more accessible and affordable. These deals often come in the form of reduced or even waived single supplements, providing a much-welcomed relief for those traveling by themselves. These promotions typically emerge around 12 weeks before departure, targeting ships with higher availability. For savvy solo travelers, keeping an eye out for these deals can significantly enhance the affordability of a solo cruise adventure, making the dream of setting sail on the open seas more attainable. Always stay connected with Carnival’s offers and be ready to seize these opportunities when they arise, as they can turn a solo cruise from a costly endeavor into a value-packed, unforgettable experience.

Does Carnival Have Adults-Only Cruises?

While Carnival Cruise Line is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide array of activities suitable for guests of all ages, it does not specifically offer cruises that are exclusively for adults. However, understanding the desire of many adults for spaces where they can relax and enjoy a child-free environment, Carnival has thoughtfully included adult-only areas within most of its ships. These dedicated spaces allow adults to enjoy a serene and more mature atmosphere away from the family buzz.

Among these adult-centric havens is the Cloud 9 Spa Thermal Suite, offering a tranquil spa experience with various thermal therapies designed to soothe and rejuvenate. For those looking to try their luck or enjoy some adult entertainment, the onboard casino provides a vibrant nightlife option. Additionally, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat is a standout feature, offering an outdoor oasis where adults can unwind in peace, enjoying plush loungers, whirlpools, and a bar service, all without the presence of younger guests.

For those specifically seeking an adults-only cruising experience, there are unique opportunities through third-party charters. Occasionally, companies will charter Carnival ships to host specialized adult-only cruises, offering unique themes and atmospheres tailored to adult preferences. One notable example is the Big Nude Boat, a clothing-optional cruise that caters exclusively to guests aged 21 and over. These charters provide an alternative for adults looking for a cruise experience with an adult-oriented focus, allowing for booking directly onto these specialized voyages. While these offerings are less frequent and require a bit of research to find, they represent a compelling option for adults seeking a Carnival cruise with an exclusively adult guest list.

Final Thoughts

Carnival Cruises offers a vibrant, inclusive, and fun-filled option for singles looking to explore the seas and meet new people. While Carnival doesn’t provide specific single cabins, they do offer a variety of accommodations and occasionally, special deals that make solo cruising more accessible. Their ships are a haven for adults seeking both relaxation and adventure, with exclusive adult-only areas like the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, the Cloud 9 Spa, and lively casinos. Additionally, for those seeking an exclusively adult atmosphere, third-party charters on Carnival ships cater to unique adult-only experiences, such as the Big Nude Boat.

Embarking on a Carnival cruise as a solo traveler opens up a world of possibilities. From connecting with fellow singles through specially curated events and mixers to finding peace in adult-only spaces, there’s something on board for every type of traveler. Carnival’s dedication to creating memorable experiences is evident in their wide range of activities, destinations, and accommodations designed to meet the diverse needs of their guests.

If you’re yearning for adventure, camaraderie, and the chance to make unforgettable memories, now is the perfect time to book your Carnival singles cruise. Whether you’re looking to dive into the vibrant social scene, relax in exclusive adult-only areas, or take advantage of special solo traveler deals, Carnival has you covered. Don’t let the opportunity to experience the trip of a lifetime slip away. Visit Carnival today to explore your options, find the perfect cruise, and embark on a journey that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come. Book your Carnival cruise today and set sail on an adventure that’s as unique as you are.

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Best Cruises For Singles Over 30s (Under 40) in 2024

If you’re single and in your 30s, you may be looking for a cruise that offers a unique experience that caters to your preferences and interests. 

While younger travelers in their 20s may prioritize partying and exotic destinations, singles in their 30s might prefer more luxurious amenities, cultural experiences as well as opportunities to connect with other single adults of a similar age.

There is also the factor of avoiding ships that might generally be taken by a much older demographic, like those predominantly seniors over 60. Or you might not want to be full-on surrounded by young families with kids, or too many loved-up romantic young couples.

With a typically higher budget and more established careers, singles over 30 may be looking for a cruise that offers a bit of indulgence and relaxation than they might have been looking for in their 20s.

If this isn’t quite the case for you, you might prefer to check out our best cruise options for single 20-somethings if you still feel a more active and party experience is more your scene.

If not, let’s go over the best options for cruises for singles over 30 and under 40 age range.

Cruises for Singles Over 30 and Under 40

In the table below, we highlight the most likely cruise lines suitable for singles over 30.

Not everyone is looking for the same thing, so we have highlighted the key aspects of each cruise line as regards the positive aspects for singles over 30. Obviously, there are other crossovers that they offer, and you can find out more about those beneath the table.

Separately we have covered for each fleet which cruise ships have solo cabins .

Best Cruise Lines For Singles Over 30

Find out why each cruise line is recommended for singles in the 30 to 40 age range.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises are a great choice for singles in their 30s seeking a more luxurious cruise experience than some of their mainline counterparts.

Celebrity Cruise is known for providing exceptional service and a sophisticated atmosphere, which can appeal to singles looking for a more refined vacation experience.

 The ships themselves are designed with elegant decor and modern amenities, creating a luxurious and comfortable environment that caters to a wide range of ages, particularly in the 30s to 40s.

Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of activities and entertainment options that can appeal to singles of all ages. Whether you enjoy relaxing by the pool, participating in organized activities, or attending shows and events in the evenings, there is plenty to do on board. 

With a range of dining options, including specialty restaurants and casual cafes, you can indulge in delicious cuisine while socializing with other guests.

Hurtigruten 

 A Hurtigruten cruise is one to consider if you’re looking for an adventurous solo cruise in your 30s.

Hurtigruten ships are known for their sociable atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to meet and connect with other like-minded passengers with similar interests.

Activities such as hiking, kayaking, and exploring new remote destinations together can help break the ice and facilitate social interaction. 

Hurtigruten cruises are designed to take passengers off the beaten track, providing unique opportunities for adventure and exploration. Single travelers in their 30s may be looking for more than just a standard vacation, with the chance to see things like the Northern Lights, explore the Arctic wilderness, or witness wildlife in its natural habitat.

They offer a wide range of itinerary options, from shorter trips along the Norwegian coast to longer expeditions to Antarctica and Greenland all the way out to the Galapagos Islands.

Unfortunately, Hurtigruten only has double occupancy rooms, and they don’t offer any share-a-room programs.  Sometimes they have deals where the single supplement is significantly reduced. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay double the rates.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line offers an abundance of options for solo travelers, making it a great choice for singles between the ages of 30 and 40.

In particular, the cruise line’s solo cabins offer a budget-friendly option for solo travelers who want to have their own space and privacy without paying a single supplement fee.

These cabins, or Studios as they are called, are smaller in size than traditional cabins at 100 square feet, but come equipped with all necessary amenities for a comfortable and albeit compact stay. 

Additionally, the dedicated solo traveler section of the ship has its own exclusive access to a shared Studio Lounge . This area can also provide a relaxed atmosphere for socializing, eating, drinking, and leaving messages for other solo travelers on the message board.

For singles between the ages of 30 and 40 who are looking for adventure and excitement, Norwegian Cruise Line’s varied itineraries can provide just that. 

With destinations all over the world, from the Caribbean to Europe to Asia, there is something for everyone. 

Another reason why Norwegian Cruise Line is a great option for singles between the ages of 30 and 40 is the variety of dining and entertainment options available on board. 

The cruise line is known for its Freestyle Dining , which allows guests to eat whenever and wherever they want, rather than being tied to a set dining time or table. 

Additionally, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of entertainment options, from Broadway-style shows to comedy acts to live music, which can provide a fun and lively atmosphere for singles looking to mingle and have a good time.

If you specifically want to mix with a group of other singles, then it might be worth considering a hosted singles cruise.  These are groups ranging from 50 to 100 people or more who book on a cruise and stick to their own itinerary of events and activities.  

They are often hosted on well know Norwegian ships.  Here you can find out more about these and Norwegian Singles Cruises in general.

Royal Caribbean 

Royal Caribbean is a great choice for solo travelers in their 30s who love sports and being active.   

Royal Caribbean ships are packed with all kinds of activities, including:

• FlowRider – surfing simulator
• Ice Skating
• Sky Diving (RipCord by iFLY)
• Rock Climbing Wall (up to 40ft above deck)

Entertainment-wise, Royal Caribbean has a variety of bars, nightclubs, and lounges onboard their ships, as well as Broadway-style shows and live music performances. 

Royal Caribbean offers cruises to destinations all over the world, including the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Australia. This provides solo travelers in their 30s with a wide range of itinerary options to choose from, whether they are looking for a beach vacation or a cultural experience

Solo travelers can take advantage of these opportunities to meet and socialize with other passengers in their age group, and considering these are some of the largest cruise ships in the world, there should be many other singletons on board.

Here you can find out more about Royal Caribbean for singles cruises .

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is still a relatively new cruise line now with two ships in its fleet and two more to launch soon.

• Scarlet Lady
• Valiant Lady
• Resilient Lady (Launch 2023)
• Brilliant Lady (Launch 2023)

Virgin Voyages aimed to do things differently and attract a new crowd to cruising,

As adult-only ships targeting guests without kids, an age range between the mid-30s and 60s, the average age range has reportedly landed in the mid-40s.

There are plenty of opportunities to meet and socialize with other guests, which is perfect for solo travelers looking to make new friends. The cruise line features communal areas such as the bar, nightclub, and pool deck, as well as organized activities like pool parties, yoga classes, and art workshops.

Food-wise, Virgin Voyages offers a variety of dining options that are both innovative and inclusive, making it easy for solo travelers to dine alone without feeling out of place. The cruise line’s restaurants are designed for social dining, with communal tables and menus featuring international cuisine.

With a strong focus on wellness, with a variety of fitness classes, gyms, and relaxin spas available on board. Solo travelers in their 30s can take advantage of this focus on wellness to meet like-minded individuals who share their interests.

One to consider.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cruise Ship for Singles Under 40

Once you have decided on the best cruise lines most suited to the singles and the experience you’re looking for, there are a number of other factors which may influence your choice.  

These include:

• Activities 
• Dress Code (Formal or Relaxed)
• Itinerary and Shore Excursions
• Entertainment
• Dining Options

Availability may also be another factor if you are looking to book a cruise sooner rather than later.

Other Options for Singles Over 30

Another good time to cruise as a solo traveler would be taking themed cruises that are designed for singles or young adults. 

These cruises are usually offered during specific times of the year and offer a range of activities and events that are geared toward young adult singles.

 Examples of these types of cruises include singles cruises, LGBT cruises, and music festival cruises.

Alternatively, you might prefer a river cruise, which, if that’s the case would depend on the location and which river cruise lines sail it.

Where and When to Sail for Singles Over 30

Cruises to more exotic or adventurous destinations, such as Alaska, South America, or the Mediterranean, when schools are in session. This would typically be during the fall (September to early December) and spring (March to early May) months.

Booking during these times would also mean that you may be able to take advantage of lower prices and less crowded ships.

In terms of the length of the booking, while a good 7 days or more cruise gives you a chance to fully immerse yourself in the cruise experience as well as get to know other singles onboard, these longer cruises fo tend to attract more couples and older demographic in general.

Related Posts

Best Norwegian Singles Cruises 2024

Best Cruises for Singles Over 50s (2024)

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Single Cruises: The Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel on the High Seas

The allure of solo travel has been on the rise, attracting a plethora of global nomads seeking to explore the world on their terms. The concept of single cruises has emerged as a vibrant, sociable, and safe answer to this trend, providing a unique platform for solo voyagers to connect, engage, and create memories while journeying across the seven seas. 

This article will navigate you through the fascinating universe of single cruises, from understanding their unique appeal to selecting the perfect cruise for your unique preferences, and to making the most of your solo voyage.

The Appeal of Single Cruises

Single cruises are an excellent option if you’re searching for a unique and interesting way to travel solo. In this section, we’ll explore the growing popularity of solo travel and the specific appeal of single cruises and provide brief testimonials from single cruisers.

“Single cruises are a fantastic way to travel in comfort and style while enjoying the company of other solo travelers.”  — Lonely Planet

The Growing Popularity of Solo Traveling

Solo travel has grown in popularity in recent years, with more and more travelers wishing to explore the world on their own terms. According to a survey by Booking.com, 25% of people plan to take a solo trip next year. Whether you’re single, divorced, or want to escape with some “me time,” solo travel is an excellent way to gain new experiences, meet new people, and discover new cultures.

The Specific Appeal of Single Cruises: Benefits and Unique Experiences

Single cruises offer a unique way to travel solo while enjoying a traditional cruise’s benefits. Some of the benefits of single cruises include:

• No single supplement fees : Many cruise lines offer special rates for solo travelers, eliminating the need to pay extra for a single occupancy room.
• Group activities : Single cruises offer a variety of group activities, such as cocktail parties, dance lessons, and shore excursions, providing opportunities to meet and socialize with other solo travelers.
• Safety and security : Cruise ships are a safe and secure way to travel solo, with 24/7 security and medical staff on board.
• Unique experiences : Single cruises offer unique experiences, such as visiting exotic ports of call, enjoying onboard entertainment and dining, and participating in themed cruises, such as wine tasting or wellness retreats.

Brief Testimonials from Single Cruisers

“I’ve taken several single cruises over the years, and they’ve all been amazing experiences. I love the social atmosphere on board, and I always meet interesting people worldwide. Plus, the ports of call are always exciting and offer an array of activities to travel on your own or with a group.” Sarah, 42

“I hesitated to take a single cruise, but I’m so glad I did. The staff on board was so welcoming and made me feel right at home. I enjoyed participating in the group activities and meeting new people, but I also appreciated having my own space when I wanted some alone time. I highly recommend single cruises to anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable solo travel experience.” Michael, 57

Single cruises offer a unique and exciting way to travel solo, with various benefits and unique experiences. If you’re hunting for a safe and secure way to explore the world on your terms, a single cruise may be the perfect option.

Understanding Single Cruises

Single cruises could be the perfect solution if you want a unique way to travel solo. Single cruises are designed for solo travelers who wish to explore the world, hang out and meet new people, and have fun without the inconvenience of planning and organizing everything themselves. In this section, we will explore single cruises, their brief history and evolution, and the different types of single cruises available.

“Single cruises are a great option for those who want to enjoy a hassle-free vacation while meeting new people and exploring new destinations.” — Business Insider

Definition and What Makes Single Cruises Different

Single cruises are organized events onboard cruise ships hosted by travel agencies. These cruises are designed for solo travelers who want to meet other like-minded people and enjoy a vacation without the pressure of traveling alone. Single cruises differ from regular cruises, providing a spectrum of activities and events tailored explicitly to solo travelers. These events can include mixers, speed dating, dance lessons, and more.

Brief History and Evolution of Single Cruises

Single cruises have been around for decades, but they have evolved significantly. In the past, single cruises were often seen as a last resort for solo travelers who couldn’t find anyone to travel with. However, today’s single cruises are much more sophisticated and present a range of activities and events that cater to the needs of solo travelers.

Types of Single Cruises: Age-Specific,presentInterest-Specific, Destination-Specific, etc.

Single cruises come in all shapes and sizes, and many different types exist. Some single cruises are age-specific, catering to travelers over 50 or 60, while others are open to all ages. Interest-specific cruises are also available, such as cruises for music lovers, foodies, or adventure seekers. Destination-specific cruises are another option, with cruises to destinations like the Caribbean, Europe, or Alaska.

Choosing the Right Single Cruise

When choosing the right single cruise, a few factors must be considered. With so many options available, it’s overwhelming to make a decision. In this section, we will explore the factors to consider. The top recommended single cruise lines and tips for first-time single cruisers in choosing.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Single Cruise

Embarking on a single cruise adventure calls for some crucial decision-making. Let’s sail through a few pointers:

1. Your Cruise Treasure Chest

Your budget forms the compass of your cruise journey. With a range of options, from luxury to budget-friendly, you’ll find a voyage that won’t make your wallet walk the plank.

2. Charting Your Course

Envision your dream destination. Is it a sun-kissed beach or a city steeped in history? There’s a single cruise sailing to every corner of your imagination.

3. Setting Sail for Adventure… Or Relaxation

Are you a thrill-seeker yearning for adrenaline-fueled activities like zip-lining or scuba diving? Or you’re a tranquility traveler craving onboard spa indulgence or zen yoga sessions. Choose a cruise that syncs with your vibe.

“Single cruises offer a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, with a range of onboard activities and excursions.” — Travel Channel

4. Age is More Than a Number

Some single cruises have wave-specific age banners. Be sure to navigate towards a journey that matches your age bracket for a truly personalized experience.

5. Cruise Time

How long do you wish to be a sea-farer? From quick getaways to long, languid journeys, the duration of your single cruise can vary. Pick a timeline that best fits your vacation dreams.

Top Recommended Single Cruise Lines and Their Unique Offerings

Here are a few of the top recommended single cruise lines and their unique offerings:

Related: Cruise Lines Ranked by Luxury , Best Cruises for Spring Break , Best Party Cruises

Tips for First-Time Single Cruisers in Making Their Choice

If you are a first-time single cruiser, here are a few pointers to help you make your choice:

• Set Sail with Knowledge: Dive into the sea of information about cruise lines and ships. Sift through reviews to chart your course and ensure you’re making a well-informed decision.
• Inquire, Don’t Shy Away: Are any questions bobbing in your mind? Cast them out to the cruise line or your trusted travel agent. They are your lighthouses in this voyage, guiding you with valuable insights.
• Sail Together: Contemplate anchoring yourself with a group of fellow solo voyagers. Sharing your journey with like-minded travelers can make your voyage a community experience, adding to the joy of discovery.
• Open Your Horizons: See your single cruise as an opportunity to hoist the sail of new experiences. Embrace the chance to meet new people, try new things, and step outside your comfort zone. Remember, adventure awaits those who dare!

You can chart your course toward the perfect single cruise experience by considering these factors and following these tips. Remember, your voyage begins long before you step on board. It starts with making the right choice.

Making the Most of Your Single Cruise Experience

Going on a single cruise can be an excellent way to meet new people, explore new places, and have a fun and exciting vacation. However, to make the most of your single cruise experience, you must be prepared and know what to expect. Here are some tips and advice on maximizing your single cruise experience.

Tips and Advice on Maximizing the Single Cruise Experience

• Navigating the Right Voyage : Scout cruises are explicitly designed with the solo traveler in mind or those known for their vibrant, diverse passenger mix. Contemplate joining a singles-centric group cruise or securing a private haven on a singles-only deck for an optimized experience.
• Immersion in Onboard Revelries : Seize the abundance of onboard activities and social events — from the rhythm of dance classes to the intellectual challenge of trivia games to the warm camaraderie of group dinners. These are your bridges to connect with fellow voyagers and immerse yourself in the shared joy of discovery.
• Embrace the Uncharted : Step boldly beyond the familiar borders of your comfort zone. This voyage is your golden ticket to discover unexplored terrains, savor exotic flavors, and form bonds with newfound companions.
• Maintaining Anchors Back Home : Amidst the thrill of new encounters and experiences, remember the importance of staying tethered to your loved ones back on the shore. Regular check-ins reassure them of your safety and allow you to share the highlights of your sea-faring adventure, making them part of your journey, even from afar.

Dealing with Potential Challenges: Loneliness, Safety, etc.

• Loneliness : It’s natural to feel lonely or homesick; especially when traveling alone. To combat this, try to stay busy and participate in onboard activities. You can also reach out to other single passengers and make plans to explore the ports together.
• Safety : While cruises are generally safe, taking precautions and recognizing your surroundings is essential. Leave your belongings unattended, avoid walking alone at night, and follow the ship’s safety guidelines.
• Seasickness : If you’re prone to seasickness, make sure to bring medication with you. With less motion, you can also book a cabin in the middle of the ship.

Personal Stories from Successful Single Cruisers

• “I went on a singles cruise to the Caribbean and had the time of my life. I met so many interesting people and made some great friends. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and exciting vacation.”
• “I was nervous about a singles cruise but had a blast. I joined a singles group, and we did everything together, from shore excursions to dinners and parties. I never felt alone or bored.”
• “I went on a singles cruise to Alaska, one of the most beautiful and memorable trips I’ve ever taken. I saw glaciers, whales, and other amazing sights and met some wonderful people along the way.”

Single Cruises Post-Pandemic

If you’re a single traveler searching for a unique vacation experience, a single cruise might be just what you need. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the cruise industry, but now that the world is returning to regular, single cruises are making a comeback.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Cruise Industry and Single Cruises

The COVID-19 pandemic hit the cruise industry hard. Many cruises were canceled, and cruise lines had to implement new safety measures and protocols to secure the safety of their passengers and crew. Single cruises were no exception, and many were canceled or postponed.

However, as the world starts to recover from the pandemic, the cruise industry is slowly beginning to bounce back. Single cruises are becoming more popular as people look for unique and safe ways to travel.

Safety Measures and Protocols for Single Cruisers in the Post-Pandemic World

The safety of passengers and crew is the top priority for cruise lines. As a single cruiser, you can expect to see a range of safety measures and protocols to ensure your safety while on board.

Some safety measures you can expect include mandatory COVID-19 testing before boarding, enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols, and social distancing measures. You may also be required to wear a mask in some regions of the ship, such as in enclosed spaces or when near others.

The Resurgence of Single Cruises and Future Predictions

Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, single cruises are making a comeback. As more people get vaccinated, and the world returns to normal, the demand for single cruises is expected to increase.

We can expect to witness more single cruises and unique and exciting itineraries offered by cruise lines. Whether you’re searching for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-packed trip, there’s a single cruise.

Single cruises are a great way to meet new people, explore new destinations, and have a unique vacation experience. With the safety measures and protocols, you can enjoy your single cruise with peace of mind; your safety is the top priority.

BONUS: Finding Your Perfect Retreat on the High Seas

When it comes to cruising, selecting the right stateroom can profoundly influence your overall experience. But for those sailing solo, the array of choices can seem both enticing and overwhelming. Let’s navigate through the most popular options and how they align with the solo cruiser’s needs.

1. Unraveling the Stateroom Spectrum

nside cabins are the most budget-friendly, giving you a cozy space to rest after a long day of adventures. However, if you crave a little sunshine and ocean breeze, Oceanview cabins provide a window or porthole for that daily dose of the endless blue horizon.

For those seeking to merge indoor comfort with outdoor luxury, Balcony cabins are a perfect match. Wake up with the sound of the waves and enjoy your morning coffee with a sea view.

However, if you’re willing to splurge and indulge in opulence, Suite accommodations are your go-to. These spacious rooms come with added amenities, often including exclusive access to certain areas of the ship or premium in-room services.

2. A Peek into Exclusive Programs: Club Orange and More

Holland America’s Club Orange is a great example of how some cruise lines enhance the stateroom experience. With this exclusive program, members enjoy myriad benefits including a dedicated concierge line, complimentary stateroom upgrades, and a premium in-room breakfast menu.

3. Solo Staterooms

Perhaps one of the most enticing options for the solo traveler is the advent of single staterooms. With the increasing popularity of single cruises, more cruise lines are catering to solo travelers. Celebrity Cruises has been particularly attentive with ships like Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Ascent.

These ships offer personal spaces tailor-made for solo passengers, ensuring they’re distanced from the high-energy party decks and allowing a tranquil retreat.

“Traveling solo on a cruise allows you to steer your own course and set your own pace.” — Anonymous

4. Membership Benefits

Having exclusive access to benefits can substantially elevate your cruise experience. Apart from the complimentary stateroom upgrades and dedicated concierge services mentioned earlier, there’s also skip-the-line priority access. Solo cabins, which are in high demand, often provide access to the Studio Lounge – a wonderful hub for socializing with fellow solo cruisers.

5. Norwegian Cruise Line: Pioneering Single Cruising

Norwegian Cruise Line deserves a special mention for its innovative approach. Recognizing the unique needs of solo travelers early on, it became the first cruise line to construct staterooms and communal areas expressly for single cruisers.

6. More than Just Meals

A cruise isn’t complete without indulging in the diverse dining options available. Beyond the usual buffet, there’s a world of upscale dining waiting to be explored. Consider dining alfresco in the ship’s steakhouse or experiencing the rich flavors at the Japanese hibachi r estaurant. And for those morning caffeine fixes or evening wind-downs, finding a Starbucks on board can be the cherry on top.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Single cruises offer a social atmosphere, group activities, and the chance to meet like-minded travelers while eliminating the single supplement fee.

The single supplement fee is an additional charge that solo travelers often pay to cover the cost of the empty bed in their cabin. Single cruises aim to reduce or eliminate this fee.

Age requirements vary by cruise line, but there are single cruises available for various age groups, from young adults to seniors.

Single cruises often feature group excursions, onboard entertainment, and social events that allow solo travelers to meet and interact with fellow passengers.

Yes, single cruises are an excellent choice for first-time cruisers, as they provide a supportive and sociable environment for those new to cruising.

Did you know?

Single Cruises are a great way for solo travelers to explore the world and meet new people. One fun fact about Single Cruises is that many of them offer special events and activities just for solo travelers, such as cocktail parties and group dinners. This makes it easy for solo travelers to connect with others and make new friends while enjoying all the benefits of a cruise. Additionally, many Single Cruises offer single cabins, which means solo travelers can enjoy their own private space without having to pay a single supplement fee. Another fun fact is that Single Cruises often feature onboard activities and entertainment, such as dance classes and live music, that are specifically designed for solo travelers. This creates a fun and welcoming environment for solo travelers to enjoy their vacation and make lasting connections with fellow travelers.

Author’s Note

Christian Petzold is a successful touristic entrepreneur, experiential traveller and round-the-world backpacker. He holds an academic degree in tourism management.

His touristic expertise has been covered in radio, newspaper and television.

Read more on him here…

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7 of the best solo cruise lines for single passengers

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Cruises are a well-trodden holiday option, offering the opportunity to explore various parts of the world while enjoying the comfort of a hotel on the seas.

These trips are popular with both families and couples, but they can be just as rewarding and enjoyable for solo travellers, giving you as much flexibility as you want along with opportunities to meet like-minded holidaymakers and see some of the world’s finest tourist destinations .

Daily activities will keep you entertained while onboard, while organised excursions or solo trips let you see a magnificent range of towns and cities at your leisure. Solo-specific events mean that meeting other travellers is as easy as sitting down to dinner, while you’ll have a comfortable solo cabin to come back to at the end of each day. Choose the right cruise and you’ll get all of this while avoiding the common ‘singles surcharge’.

If you’ve got the itch to book, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best cruise liners for single passengers below.

Riviera Travel

Riviera Travel operates river cruises around the world, with destinations as far as Egypt and Vietnam . Nevertheless, the focus is on European river cruises , with plenty of packages to the Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Douro and Danube on offer. Packages include return flights, airport transfers and all meals onboard, with an extensive range of excursions and activities including guided tours and on-board folk music shows.

Read more on cruise travel :

• The best Northern Lights cruises
• The best river cruises around the world
• The best winter cruise holidays to book

European river cruises are the only option that Riviera offers for solo travellers, with seven routes that cover the continent’s main rivers. Prices include all the same features as a standard booking – such as excursions, onboard meals and Wi-Fi – but with spacious single occupancy cabins and welcome dinners to help you meet people. Solo bookings also include the ‘superior’ drinks package, which gives guests an extensive selection of alcoholic drinks available both at lunch and between 6pm and midnight. The Rhine and Moselle package is their most affordable, starting in Cologne and taking you to beautiful towns like Koblenz and Rudesheim.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages offers adult-only cruises packed with a huge range of activities, from morning yoga classes to evening cabaret. There are plenty of solo cabins – their inaugural ship, Scarlet Lady, has 46 – and itineraries include solo meet-ups, activities and excursions with plenty of opportunities to meet other single travellers.

Packages include food, drink and activities as standard. With only four ships in the fleet, your choice of destination is slightly more limited, though you can still visit picturesque locations in Europe, the Caribbean , parts of Southern Asia and Australia. The Southeastern Caribbean Isles package will take you on a roundtrip from Puerto Rico, stopping in Guadeloupe, Barbados, St Lucia and Antigua.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian was the first cruise company to build ships with cabins and lounge areas that were specifically for solo travellers, and there are now around 1,000 solo cabins across its ships. Solo travellers can choose from Oceanview rooms, inside rooms, rooms with a balcony and even studios, and they will have access to the Solo Lounge – a private lounge only for guests travelling alone – where various events and happy hours are held.

Normal packages include food and onboard activities, though several bookings let you choose to add extras – from shore excursions to speciality meals or a free bar – for a small added fee. Norwegian sail across a wide range of destinations too, from the British Isles and the Mediterranean to Hawaii, Alaska and the Caribbean.

Tauck claims to have specialised in solo travel for over 90 years, and today this translates to special solo savings and no single supplement on European river cruises. Travellers looking to see the continent ‘solo style’ can benefit from savings of up to £750, and will enjoy more stylish, contemporary ships with fewer guests for an overall more luxurious experience. Trips cover Europe’s main waterways, and prices include all food, drink, activities and shore tours. Choose the Yuletide package between Brussels and Amsterdam for a festive experience at some of the best Christmas markets – and prettiest waterways – on the continent.

Ambassador Cruise Line

Ambassador is a new cruise line where trips begin in cities around the UK , including Liverpool , Belfast, Dundee and Bristol. Both Ambience and Ambition have 89 dedicated cabins set aside for solo travellers, available “at a special single supplement against the equivalent twin fare based on selected single cabin categories”. The operator journeys to a vast range of destinations considering there are only two ships in its fleet, with voyages going as far as Singapore , Brazil and New Zealand.

Ambassador’s cruises contain an extensive programme of activities for solo passengers, including a ‘Welcome Get Together’ and guided tours together with other solo travellers. Other onboard entertainment ranges from West End-style shows to comedy nights, with plenty of opportunities to meet others. If cruising during winter, visit Norway to see wondrous fjords and (possibly) the aurora borealis, with the Land of the Northern Lights package.

Oceania has made considerable investment in providing options for solo travellers, with its newest ship, Vista, containing six 270-square-foot solo cabins that include balconies, premium lounge access and a welcome bottle of champagne. It has fitted its older ships with 14 ‘Solo Staterooms’, all of which offer magnificent sea views.

Oceania voyages make it easy to meet like-minded travellers with solo meet-and-greet events, large mixed dining tables, mixed shore excursions and single-traveller activities such as art classes. Destinations range from the Mediterranean and Scandinavia to South Africa and the tropics, meaning solo travellers have opportunities to see a large portion of the world alone. Book the 14-day  Miami to Tenerife cruise  to experience Mediterranean charm and Caribbean beauty in late March. 

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean say that they do not “have specific pricing for single occupancy” cabins, but that they do offer single cabins on some of their ships, including Brilliance of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas. These cruises “can be reserved by someone cruising alone without the usual single supplement fee”, and they cover an extensive range of destinations, from Europe to the Caribbean and Singapore to Australia.

Passengers can reserve inside studio staterooms, virtual balcony staterooms and super studio ocean view stateroom with balconies, giving them between 101 and 199 square feet of space. Everything else will be the same as usual, meaning you can enjoy the same benefits as every other guests without paying a premium. If departing from the UK, the only tours available take you around Europe; the most extensive is the Mediterranean Cities package, covering Seville, Sardinia, Rome , Lisbon and more.

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The 6 best party cruises on the high seas, from sun-deck soirees to disco dance-offs

Whether you're a joiner who loves a themed shindig, a sucker for a family promenade parade, a fan of high-class ballroom dancing or a college student who enjoys a raging kegger, there's a line to fit your cruise party style.

If you're searching for a raucous atmosphere with lots of drinking and dancing into the wee hours of the morning, you'll do best on short sailings (two to four days) out of Florida or southern California. Choose a time when primary schools are in session for a more adult rather than family-focused vibe on board. College spring break weeks are often the ultimate party cruises.

If you're looking for a different kind of party — perhaps something more refined or family-friendly — which cruise line you choose is likely more important than the length of the voyage or the departure port.

Here's my list of the best party cruise lines, whether you want to drop it low or raise the roof.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Margaritaville at Sea: Best for budget bashes

If you're short on time, cash or both, Margaritaville at Sea — which operates just one ship, Margaritaville at Sea Paradise — is the ideal party cruise ship line. Each sailing is just two nights, and the ship runs back and forth between the Port of Palm Beach in Florida and Freeport in the Bahamas.

Because most passengers seek out the ship for a quick getaway where they can let loose during a couple of days off from work, they're often in the mood to party. (After all, it's 5 o'clock somewhere.)

You'll find pool deck dance parties, Jimmy Buffett-themed nightly shows and several bars and lounges on board. The main lounge, Euphoria, is where you can get your boogie on after hours.

To be clear, the ship is more than 30 years old, so you won't be in the lap of luxury on one of these sailings. However, the pricing is great for cruisers on tight budgets . Fares start from $299 for two people for an ocean-view cabin — just $75 per person, per night (not including taxes or port fees). You'd be hard-pressed to find land-based accommodations for that little, and Margaritaville's fares also include meals and entertainment. The best prices are offered midweek.

Want to make the festivities last a bit longer? You can tack on a two-night pre- or post-cruise stay at Margaritaville in Orlando, or book a stay of two, four or six nights at a resort in Freeport before cruising back to Florida.

Virgin Voyages: Best for trendy parties

Ain't no party like a Richard Branson cruise ship party, and there are plenty of them on Virgin Voyages ' ships. When the business mogul signed his name to the cruise line, it was a given that the vessels would be fresh, trendy and ready to rock.

A mix of rockstar chic and drag queen glam, a cruise with Virgin feels like one long fever dream, albeit a pleasant one. All ships are for adults only.

Passengers can expect risqué entertainment, including lounge singer-style performances; late-night parties, notably Scarlet Night, where everyone is encouraged to dress in red for a giant poolside rave; and wacky events like scavenger hunts and secret below-deck tours that take you for tipples in the crew bar after the sun sets.

What's most refreshing about Virgin's take on cruising is its "come as you are" attitude. On a recent sailing, I saw crew — men and women — dressed as merpeople, passengers who decided to wear tutus to dinner (and they weren't even a little bit out of place doing so), and singers and dancers of all shapes, sizes and ethnicities.

Virgin Voyages' ships will give you music festival vibes at sea — but with much better accommodations and fellow guests who have actually showered. (Body glitter, glow-in-the-dark clothing and fairy wings are all encouraged.)

Carnival Cruise Line: Best party drinks

If you prefer to enjoy parties with an adult beverage in hand, a Carnival cruise is worth your consideration. Its mixed drinks are some of the tastiest and most creative in the industry, including specialty concoctions that change color or which are topped with poppable smoke bubbles.

My favorites? Try the Cucumber Sunrise (vodka, lime juice, watermelon syrup, orange juice and muddled cucumber) at the Alchemy bar on nearly any Carnival ship or the Crystal Ball (tequila, Green Chartreuse, agave nectar and lime) at the Fortune Teller bar on Mardi Gras.

One downside is that the drinks can be pricey. If you plan to consume a lot of alcohol, you might want to consider one of the line's beverage packages , which run from $60-65 per person, per day. At that rate, you'd have to drink roughly six cocktails per day to make it worth the cost, and if you purchase the package, anyone else in your cabin who's 21 or older will have to do the same.

Like Margaritaville at Sea, the line offers affordable sailings, but it has a larger fleet of ships from which to choose — some of the best party cruise ships afloat. Also like Margaritaville at Sea, its shorter sailings tend to draw a more party-hardy crowd, so keep that in mind as you determine the level of shenanigans you prefer when you're having a good time.

MSC Cruises: Best for late-night parties

Are you someone who likes to party all night and sleep in the next day? MSC Cruises is a great cruise line for doing just that, especially if you're sailing on one of its Europe-based ships. (On a recent U.S.-based sailing, the club was dead before midnight, but the casino and its bar were open until well after I went to bed.)

Every vessel has a host of bars and lounges, but you'll want to make your way to the onboard nightclub, where DJs play music until well after 2 a.m., as long as there's a crowd.

Themed parties include white parties, where all passengers are encouraged to wear white, and snow parties, where the crew blasts fake snow (read: foam) onto the pool deck as passengers dance.

If you also want to party ashore, look for Caribbean itineraries that offer overnights at the line's private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve . After the sun sets, the body of the island's lighthouse illuminates with LED lights to create a spectacular show accompanied by a shoreside beach party.

Don't worry if you feel tired or hung over the next day. In true Italian fashion — it's a Mediterranean line, after all — the coffee is superb. Every bar has a fancy machine that can make whatever your caffeine-starved heart desires: espresso, Americano, cappuccino, latte, mocha and more. Note that specialty coffee costs extra if you don't have a beverage package.

Royal Caribbean: Best for family-friendly parties

Royal Caribbean is one of the most family-friendly cruise lines sailing the seas. Although the line's ships offer plenty of adult activities on board — late-night clubbing, adults-only hot tubbing and 18+ scavenger hunts — they also schedule plenty of parties for kids and families to enjoy together.

For example, every ship that's debuted since 1999 features an indoor promenade, lined with shops and restaurants, that serves as the venue for special performances. For years, Royal Caribbean's promenade parades included characters from "Shrek" and "Madagascar" as part of the line's former partnership with DreamWorks.

Now, the promenade shows feature members of the onboard entertainment staff performing well-known hits, such as the Beatles' "Yellow Submarine," while dressed in costumes. Pirate ships and other props make the experience a fantastic one for all age groups but definitely for children.

Royal Caribbean also scores off the charts in terms of kids club offerings. In addition to a battery of supervised daily activities, the staff also organizes nighttime events, including dance parties, where kids can get their groove on with new friends while enjoying mocktails.

If that isn't enough, the line hosts several theme nights, which encourage passengers to dress up. Held on sailings of four nights or longer, these gatherings, which are appropriate for all ages, might be themed as masquerade, country western, toga or decade-specific ('50s, '60s, '70s, '80s) parties.

Cunard Line: Best for high-class hootenannies

If animated characters, twerking and loud, pulsating music aren't your thing, you might prefer a sailing on one of Cunard 's classic, nautically styled vessels.

On Queen Mary 2, for example, you can partake in ballroom dance classes, where you'll learn to cut a rug with the best of them.

At night, take your newfound (or, perhaps, well-worn) skills back to the ballroom, where a live band plays as cruisers dance classic styles like waltz, foxtrot and swing — often in their most swanky attire. Cunard is one of the few remaining cruise lines that still has formal nights .

On a recent sailing, people nearly three times my age were up dancing until well after 2 a.m. (Seriously, a 103-year-old WWII veteran showed me up on the dance floor several nights in a row.)

During the day, when you're not honing your fancy footwork, the ballroom is used for another more sedentary type of party: afternoon tea. You won't want to miss the pastries and finger sandwiches served by white-gloved waiters. The scones and clotted cream are a party for your tastebuds.

Bottom line

Whether your idea of a party includes loud, late-night debauchery with plenty of drinks or a more laid-back gathering where passengers sip tea in a formal ballroom, there's a cruise that will allow you to cut loose in whichever way you prefer. Your preferences are, ultimately, what determine the best party cruise line for you.

Choose shorter, less expensive sailings for a more raucous experience; select a longer, pricier voyage if you're looking for understated celebrations. Either way, you're sure to have a great time.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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Secrets of Shakira’s Miami life: Basketball mom parties with Gisele and driving a neon Lamborghini

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She is no ordinary Miami sports mom.

When Shakira watches her sons play basketball in a community center she wears yoga pants and tees — but rocks up in a custom Lamborghini.

Welcome to Shakira’s new life in Florida, where she has put disastrous years of infidelity, tax evasion and a musical drought behind her, to launch a stunning comeback as the Queen of Latin Music.

The 47-year-old moved to Miami with her sons Milan and Sasha in April 2023 to build a new life as a single mom, after their father Gerard Piqué cheated on her with a model more than 20 years her junior.

She left behind life with Piqué in Barcelona, where she also faced jail for tax evasion , determined to enter a new era.

And it seems to be paying off.

Last weekend she made a surprise appearance at Coachella standing in front of a sign saying “world tour,” then announced a 14-date tour in fall to showcase her new all-Spanish album, “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” — which translates to “Women No Longer Cry,” and features 16 eyebrow-raising songs, some of which appear to be diss tracks about her ex.

Much to the delight of festivalgoers, Shakira joined Argentinean producer Bizarrap for two songs, including “La Fuerte.” Clad in a custom-dyed, fiery ombre silk chiffon knit dress by Natalia Fedner, knee-high leg warmers and 3-inch patent leather boots, Shakira slayed the Indio, California scene.

The album is her first record in seven years and takes listeners on a musical journey, following her contentious 2022 split with Piqué — who cheated on her with model Clara Chía Marti.

Shakira supposedly found out about the affair from an empty jar of jelly in her fridge, although the singer has disputed that account . Marti, 25, is now officially 37-year-old Piqué’s partner.

But the singer has not disputed that she placed a witch-like mannequin on the balcony of her Barcelona home, which faced that of her former mother-in-law, Montserrat Bernabeu.

And one of her new album tracks, “BZRP Music Sessions #53,” is clearly aimed at Piqué with the lyrics, “You left my mother-in-law as my neighbor, with the press at the door and the debt in the treasury.”

The debt included millions in unpaid taxes for which the Spanish government was prosecuting Shakira, with the threat of up to eight years in prison. She cut a deal to pay a $7.6m fine and accept a suspended sentence in November.

The album is a return to music after a long hiatus which she laid at her — now retired — professional soccer player partner’s feet.

“For a long time I put my career on hold, to be next to Gerard, so he could play football,” the Grammy winner told the Sunday Times . “There was a lot of sacrifice for love.”

But in Miami, she has found her new voice, with her new album already number 1 on Billboard’s Top Latin chart, making her the first woman with number 1 albums across four decades.

And she has been on a publicity blitz, including a pop-up concert in Times Square , which attracted over 40,000 fans, and appearances on “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon” and legendary music producer Nile Rodgers’ podcast, “Deep Hidden Meaning Radio.” The world tour will, of course, include a Miami date.

Friends attribute her success to her settled life in Miami Beach, where her parents William Mebarak Chadid, 92, and Nidia del Carmen Ripoll Torrado, 81, also reside.

The “Hips Don’t Lie” singer is often seen zipping around town in her custom matte purple Lamborghini Urus — the world’s fastest SUV.

The car’s interior boasts custom neon lime-green-and-white seats and matching steering wheel. Its top speed is 192mph.

Shakira uses the $260,000 SUV to ferry her two sons, Milan, 11 and Sasha, 9, between her $20m home and the $46,000-a-year Miami Country Day School as well as the nearby community center where the boys play sports.

Several local moms revealed that Shakira often attends their basketball games in the low-key gymnasium, enthusiastically cheering her sons on.

When it comes to her kids’ extracurricular activities, the fashion-forward singer seems to have adopted the Miami mom look, eschewing her signature corsets and short skirts for yoga pants, tees, sneakers and a lightweight bomber jacket.

“Shakira comes to a lot of the games,” one mom divulged. “She dresses down and totally blends in. You wouldn’t know it’s even her.”

However, her flashy Lamborghini stands out, even in a sea of the usual G-wagons and Ferraris driven by moms.

It also made a recent appearance on Shakira’s Instagram feed , with the Colombian belting out her new song “Punteria” while driving with a friend.

And there is a possible romance with the British “Emily in Paris” star Lucien Laviscount, 31, whom she met when he was cast in Shakira’s video for the song “Punteria.”

In the steamy video, Shakira and Cardi B, who also sings on the track, are Amazonian women hunting a centaur with toned abs and hooves, played by a shirtless Laviscount.

Shakira wounds him with an arrow and then heals him. In the video, their sexual chemistry is palpable. Since then, the couple was spotted having dinner at Carbone in New York City. 

While Laviscount flew to Miami for the video, the hunky actor lives in England and films his hit show, “Emily in Paris,” in France.

Nevertheless, a friend told The Post, “It’s not serious. Every time she goes out with a man, they create a romance. That’s the price of being a public icon.”

The friend confirmed that Shakira is firmly entrenched in Miami and is not looking for long-distance love. 

Laviscount has also been branded as a social climber with dalliances with female singers like Kerry Katona and Jesy Nelson, as well as Kelly Osbourne . Laviscount and Shakira’s representatives did not respond for a comment.

Since her split from Piqué, Shakira has also been linked to F1 racecar driver Lewis Hamilton and, closer to home, the Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler. Neither of those relationships were ever officially confirmed.

Even Tom Cruise allegedly made a play for a date, during the 2023 F1 Grand Prix in Miami, but was rebuffed. 

The “Wherever, Whenever” singer often pops up at Miami’s biggest events.

Page Six revealed that she attended Art Basel last December with her brother Tonino, where she inspected a painting by the artist Mickalene Thomas, “High Priestess,” which had been previously sold for $500,000.

Shakira also visited the Red Dot fair with her son Sasha, to support Colombian artist and friend Yei Duran.

And last month, Shakira brought her kids to the Miami Open, the glitzy tennis tournament, for the men’s final match, played between Italian Jannik Sinner and Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov. Shakira, clad in a cream-colored corset, mingled with fans before watching Sinner win. 

The kids have also become friends with Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen’s son Benjamin, 14, and daughter Vivian, 11, thanks to their moms taking them to dinner together . All four children attend Miami Country Day.

Aside from being a devoted sports mom, Shakira also takes her kids jet-skiing right from the dock of her $11.6m waterfront Miami Beach mansion .

Sasha and Milan also hang out with their famous mom while she’s recording at Sony Music’s studio across the causeway in Miami. 

They are so comfortable at the recording studio, that Sasha and Milan made their singing debut on the track, “Acrostico.” According to Shakira, her children’s involvement happened organically. 

“They started to sing the song on the microphone because they already knew it by heart from listening to me,” Shakira told Nile Rodgers during her podcast interview. 

“How could I resist?” she continued. “Their voices sound so sweet, and I feel like they’re really good singers. And they were in tune with the song, you know, with the sentiment in the song.”

The proud mom told Rodgers, “I’ve had many wonderful collaborations on this album, in my career, but nothing like with my kids.”

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Kiev Nightlife • A Complete Guide

Kiev or Kyiv is the capital and the largest city in Ukraine. The population of the city is roughly 3 million making it the 7th largest city by population in Europe. The name of Kiev is originated from the “Kyi”, one of the founding fathers of the city. Kiev is an important cultural, economic and educational center in Eastern Europe and home to many hi-tech industries.

It also has a very interesting nightlife scene, there is something for all tastes, whether you want an all out party or just a relaxed dinner and a few drinks. This guide will help you find the perfect place to you.

Kyiv’s history dates back to 500 AD when the city started to expand and hundreds of monuments, churches, and cathedrals were constructed during different dynasties. Even today, a number of these historical landmarks are standing with glory and attracting tourists from all over the world. The topmost attractions include Saint Sophia’s Cathedral, it was constructed in 1037 AD and only a few renovations were made over the time and still present almost in the same form as was in the beginning.

Other historic monuments you must see on your visit to Kiev include Saint Andrew’s Church, Kiev Pechersk Lavra monastery, and Mariyinsky Palace. Kiev has few extraordinary museums as well, the top of the list museums include Mikhail Bulgakov Museum and National Art Museum of Ukraine. These museum offers some of the best Ukrainian paintings and sculpture, dating back to the times of Kievan Rus. These museums currently have about 50,000 artifacts and have one of the biggest gathering ofKiev at Night ancient iconostases in the country and beyond. 

One of the most prestigious architecture attraction in the city is the “National Opera of Ukraine” without any doubt. It is considered one of the most important opera centers in all of Europe. “Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War” is a great place to witness the horror of world war two. Here you will see thousands of exhibits showing the important documents, weapons and personnel belongings of those that fought in the war.

Besides these historic places, Kyiv has one more special surprise for the visitors. It has a very vibrant and active nightlife which is probably the best in Eastern Europe. You will see numerous bars, nightclubs, and other attraction necessary to make your night worth remembering.

The Nightlife in Kiev

Kiev has a surprisingly attractive and vibrant nightlife. There is always something happening in every part of the city during the night. There are abundant of diverse places throughout the city where you can chill out with your friends. One more thing, Kiev is blessed with a very tourist-friendly population and here you can hang out with strangers as well. Let’s explore some of the top attractions where you can spend a good part of your night to have fun.

Hit a cinema after Mid-night

Kiev has dozens of quality cinemas that offer special shows starting after or at midnight. This is the perfect time to hit a cinema because by this time you can visit some other night attractions in the city and can end your night at a high. If you are planning to watch a movie this night at Kiev, have a light dinner first, take some popcorns, and some soft drinks with you. This is all you need to make your night a special night.

Spend your sunrise at the arch of diversity

Shaping like a rainbow, arch of diversity is very popular among the tourists. You can find some of the top attraction here including the Left Bank, the Dnipro River, and the famous area of Podol. This is the place where you spend the whole night with your loved ones. The young couple prefers to chill out here all night and then greet the stunning sunrise in the morning.

Don’t forget to visit a museum during the night

Kiev has numerous museum to visit and during night time, they are just stunning when the colorful lights glow the whole scene. On May 18, all museums and art galleries in the city celebrate International Museum Day and open their doors for all and sundry at night. The National Art Museum along with other museum host various events, lectures, and the visual arts and music function. Spending some time of your night time in one of these museums on 18th May is highly recommended.

Explore the ancient Podol area

There is no better place other than the historic Podol area in Kyiv to spend a night out. This area is a focal point to mysterious stories attached to the founding fathers of the city. This place is the hub of artisans and merchants and a lot of hidden historic gems can be found here. The area is very big and a booking a local guide is worth trying.

How about a delicious Dinner?

In the city center of the Kiev, numerous quality restaurant stays open all night where you can enjoy a healthy dinner any time. There is a trend to enjoy late-night dinner in Kyiv because this city never sleeps. Entertainment complex Arena City is one of the most popular destinations for late-night dinner. First, watch a movie in one of the cinema and then head to one of the restaurants to finish you a night at a high.

Try some quality drinks at Sky Bar

Kiev has one of the most decent and cost-effective bars in all of Eastern Europe. Sky bar is one of such bars where you can enjoy your favorite drinks at reasonably low rates. Here you have the opportunity to meet with super friendly strangers and increase your friendships in Kiev. They serve well-mixed drinks and bartenders are equally friendly.

Horn your dancing skills at one of the clubs

In Kyiv, all night is party time, but weekends are especially thrilling. Stating at 11 pm you can enjoy dancing till 6 am without any fear. The top clubs arrange best local and occasionally the international DJ concerts, where you can get wet in your sweat. One of the best venue for this purpose is the Closer. Thus nightclub has famous for parties and ranked among the top 20 nightclubs in the world.

The Best Bars in Kiev

Kiev is among the largest cities in whole Europe and its younger population love the trendy bars if Kiev. The nightlife here is very lively with a lot of places to sip the finest cocktails available on the planet earth. The best thing about Kiev bar scene is you are never too far from a quality drinking place. If you are searching for the right bars in the city, you can check out our list of best bars in Kiev below.

If you are looking for worlds famous cocktails in the city center, Pink Freud id your best bet. The staff is professional and friendly and the drinks are well mixed. Their menu consists of over 40 drinks and every drink has some unique characteristics. Drinks are divided into four categories: sweet, sour, strong, and refreshing cocktails. The architecture of the bar is stunning and no less than the taste of the cocktails. To fulfill your appetite demand, there is a decent kitchen inside the bar. The architecture, the tasty drinks, and professional staff all make this place worth visiting. You can find the bar at 19 Nyzhnii Val Street, Podil’s’kyi district Kyiv, 2000, Ukraine.

Bottega Wine & Tapas

This bar offers some of the finest Spanish cuisines in the city and at the same time is a valuable addition to city cocktail and wine culture. The place is famous for its sour cocktail served with a lot of ice. Bottega Wine & Tapas is famous for its unique cocktails and beers, you won’t find similar cocktails anywhere else in the city. These drinks are normally followed by tapas, which is the special art of this bar. The inside of the bar is mystical with beautiful artifacts and paintings. All these features and unique cocktails are what you need to spend a quality night out. The bar is located at 13 Vulytsya Tereshchenkivsʹka, Shevchenkivs’kyi district Kyiv, 2000, Ukraine.

The Best Bar-restaurant in Kiev

Like any other activities, like quality bars, Kiev has its own culinary culture. The restaurants here offer some of the best and diverse foods in the county and region. We bring together the list of best bar restaurants in Istanbul in the below section.

It is located in the Kiev most visited food street Andrew’s Descent. Design of the restaurant is quite marvelous with Turkish-Scandinavian background décor. Coming towards the foods available here, the menu of foods is very diverse and offers a variety of foods. The best foods available here include famous Eastern Europe foods named as caviar and beetroot soup. You can enjoy your meal along with chamber music or a book reading. Kanapa is located at 19 Andriivs’kyi descent, Podil’s’kyi district Kyiv, 1025, Ukraine.

This restaurant provides the opportunity to try foods from the Caucasus, not found in the rest of the world. Shoti, a beautiful restaurant, is just the perfect place for such cuisine to eat. Its design is just awesome and an award-winning design catch your attention at first. You’ll also find delicious Georgian dishes such as pork and veal khinkali and khachapuri. These dishes are just the tip of the iceberg as you will find hundreds of other foods here. The restaurant is located at 9 Mechnykova Street, Pechers’kyi district Kyiv, 1133, Ukraine.

Tsarske Selo

Located near the Pechersk Lavra monastery, this restaurant offers some of the best Ukrainian foods in the city. The interior of the hotel is similar to 17th-century buildings design and take you in the past. The foods are still prepared from century-old methods, therefore their taste is just brilliant. This place is just perfect to enjoy traditional foods with Ukrainian folklore music. You can find the hotel at 22 Lavrska Street, Pechers’kyi district Kyiv, 2000, Ukraine.

Founded by the famous businessman Hector Jimenez-Bravo, this restaurant brings the taste of China’s Hong Kong to the heart of Kyiv. There is something unique in the hotel, the community tables that offer extra-ordinary sitting spacing. It is considered as the longest restaurant table in all of Europe with 50 seats. BAO serves the best traditional dim sum you will not find anywhere in Ukraine. You can find the bar at 14/1 Mechnykova Street, Pechers’kyi district Kyiv, 1133, Ukraine.

Carpaccio Bar

The restaurant serves many local Ukrainian and regional recipes. There innovative combination of local and international foods make it top-ranked place. If you are a fan of famous local recipes Craving pasta or carpaccio and want to eat it, this is the best place for this cause. You’ll be welcomed by a very professional and noticeably friendly staff. This restaurant is a hotspot for Italian recipes as well. The restaurant is located at Sofiivs’ka Street, Shevchenkivs’kyi district Kyiv, 2000, Ukraine.

The Best Nightclubs in Kiev

Nightclubs are an integral part of nightlife at Kiev. The number of nightclubs is pretty decent compared to its population. The talk about nightlife is incomplete without mentioning the thriving culture of nightclubs that city is witnessing for a long time. To prove the point, we are presenting a list of top most nightclubs of Kiev that you should try whenever to visit this great city.

Caribbean Club

One of the oldest bar in Kyiv that is still popular as it was a decade ago. It’s a great place for those looking for a night out and partying in Kiev. The club is divided into three large bars, a spacious dance floor, and high-quality equipment where artists perform every other day. This is also famous for live concerts that take place every evening before it turns into a fine club with DJs from all over the world. The music here ranges from jazz, hip hop, and metal. Besides music and dance, you can enjoy well-mixed drinks at very reasonable prices. The club is located at Petlyury Symona St, 4, Kiev, Ukraine.

Indigo is an entertainment hub that can be separated into four parts: a restaurant, a nightclub, a bar, and a banquet hall, all at on place but different time. First, do a great dinner and then go to the bar where you can enjoy your favorite drink. After getting enough fuel from these activities, move to the nightclub where electric music coming out of one of the best sound system will compel you to dance till the last beat. DJs play the top compositions of the world charts all night, so you can keep going. Find out the bar at Kudryashova St, 3, Kiev, Ukraine.

It is an art center with special importance given to nightlife activities. This is an amazing nightclub where exhibitions, live performances and festivals take place every time. After visiting it you will learn why it is listed among the top 20 nightclubs in the world. The quality of electronic music here is unmatchable with any club in the city, this is why it is very popular among the young population of the city. Closer is all about music especially the electric one, it ranges from Techno, house, and Dubstep. Closer is located at Nizhneyurkovska St, 31, Kiev, Ukraine.

Skybar is a stunning bar that contains a decent nightclub at one side of the bar. The place is famous for two reasons. First, it offers one of the best yet low-cost drinks in the city, second, it offers stunning views of the city, thanks to its location. The atmosphere of the club is very electric, perfect for partying and dancing till late in the night. There is always a long line of decent DJs every night, this is why local young population love this club. The rock, jazz, hip hop, and other types of music compel you to dance more. You can find the club at Velyka Vasylkivska St, 5, Kiev, Ukraine.

Want something new and open during the night in Kyiv? This open-air nightclub in the city is the best for you. The attraction here ranges from a classic restaurant, a decent nightclub to a hidden gem karaoke place. This place is very popular among the elite of the city and one or more politicians and businessmen can be spotted here every night. Coming towards the foods they are offering, you can taste regional, Ukrainian and Japanese foods here. The bar offers long drinks list including alcoholic and wine drinks. There is another tradition here, visitor like to eat breakfast here, after dancing and partying the whole night. Dali Park is located at Parkova Road, 16 Kiev, Ukraine.

Kiev also is known as Kyiv is the capital and the largest city in Ukraine. The population of the city is roughly 3 million making it the 7th largest city by population in Europe. Kiev is an important cultural, economic and educational center in the Eastern. Kiev’s is a historic city with hundreds of monuments, churches, and cathedrals. These historical landmarks are standing with glory and attracting tourists from all over the world. The topmost attractions include Saint Sophia’s Cathedral, Saint Andrew’s Church, Kiev Pechersk Lavra monastery, and Mariyinsky Palace. Kiev is home to some of the great museums including Mikhail Bulgakov Museum and National Art Museum of Ukraine. These museum offers some of the best Ukrainian paintings and sculpture, dating back to the times of Kievan Rus. The architectural attractions include the National Opera of Ukraine. It is considered one of the most important opera centers in all of Europe. “Museum of the History of Ukraine in the Second World War” is a great place to witness the horror of world war-II. Here you will see thousands of exhibits showing the important documents, weapons and personnel belongings of those that fought in the war.

Discussion of Kyiv is incomplete without mentioning its thriving and lively nightlife. The main attraction during the night is the famous bars and nightclubs serving the best drinks in the region. To name a few bars, we can include Pink Freud, Palata №6, The Bar, Loggerhead, and Bottega Wine & Tapas. In these bars, one can enjoy the best locally crafted drinks. Kiev has no shortage of bars that are ranked among the best in the world. The list of best nightclubs includes Pink Freud, Palata №6, The Bar, Loggerhead, and the Bottega Wine & Tapas. In these nightclubs, you can try to dance and party with your loved ones.

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15 Best Bars In Kyiv (Nightlife In Kyiv Guide)

• by Jonny Duncan
• January 2, 2022 November 12, 2023

Looking for the best bars in Kyiv? This is a list of some of the best drinking and partying you can do in the city after extensive “research” partying in the city for several months.

Update 2022: Due to the continued Russian invasion of Ukraine that has now affected Kyiv as well this article has not been updated since then and some of these bars may not be open. Check ahead to see before going.

Kyiv bars are a lot of fun and drinking/socialising in the city is one of the highlights of the place and the nightlife in Kyiv is some of the best in Europe.

It’s a hidden gem.

But many tourists coming in for just a few days will most likely not have a good idea of where to go.

There is a place called Arena in the centre with some bars, and tends to be where a lot of people end up as it’s easy to find and well known. It does tend to be full of foreigners though and can be expensive.

The best bars are the ones that mostly locals and expats go to, which is generally a trend all over the world.

But the best ones can be hard to find.

Which bars in Kiev are they?

Well, that’s what this post is about, to help those of you visiting Kyiv and wanting to go out drinking, or for new arrivals moving to the city.

Or maybe you’re just curious.

I personally love going out drinking and socialising and have been to most bars on this list, and can recommend them. I also got in touch with many friends in the city, locals and expats alike, and asked there opinion.

Not surprisingly most of their recommendations were places I love as well.

There are 1 or 2 that I haven’t been to, but I trust the people that said they are good.

Many of the bars are not that big, but that actually makes for a good atmosphere.

The main bars of the city that people will tell you to go to as a tourist are not on the list, as the point of this post is to direct you to more local bars.

Naturally there are a lot of bars in Kyiv, but there’s no point in covering that many as most people will not have the time on a trip to see them all.

This is a list of some of the best bars in Kyiv so if any were missed out that you like that’s the reason.

All the bars are located in the centre and most will serve food as well.

Many tend to be set in basements also, which is fun, but can make some of them hard to find.

Some of the bars will have good foreign beer such as some Belgium ones, but the local Ukrainian beer is decent as well.

Many of these bars serve excellent cocktails also.

One stereotype about drinking in Ukraine is that they all drink vodka there. However, whenever I have been out drinking in Kyiv most of my local friends don’t drink it, and observing others, they tend not to either so much.

I have included rough walking distances between the bars that may be close enough to walk to each other. The ones that aren’t listed as walking to each other means they will be at least over 15 minutes walk away between them.

The bar areas tend to be spread out, not all concentrated in one main area, like some cities have, so taking a taxi from time to time will have to be done. Unless you like walking a lot!

Thankfully taxis are very cheap. Use an app for your phone called Uklon Taxi and this will give you the cheapest rates and avoid you being overcharged.

For each bar recommended there is a link to their Facebook page where you can get directions on how to get there, and see some photos of the place to see if maybe it’s your kind of vibe.

The bars are in no particular order.

Note: This post contains affiliate links to help you plan your trip with site seeing tickets etc and are covered in my disclaimer .

Also, the Ukrainians spell their capital Kyiv, the other way to spell it is the commonly used Kiev, but that’s the Russian way to say it.

FIND PLACES TO STAY IN KIEV HERE

The Best Bars in Kiev and Nightlife in Kiev

Here you go…

Parovoz Speak Easy Bar Kyiv

This is a great place that is hard to find but worth it.

It’s set underneath one of the oldest cinemas in Kyiv close to Tolstoho Square, which is nearby the Arena complex in the centre.

It has a jazzy sort of atmosphere, making it feel a bit old school with good food and great cocktails. Think swing dancing kind of vibe.

Entering the place you will see a large screen often showing old movies. The bar staff dress retro also.

Try the carbonara and steaks.

Not the cheapest place out of the bars but definitely worth it.

5 minutes walk to Divan or Banka bars.

Reasonable to upward prices.

Address:19, V.Vasylkivska street

Phone:+380679498828

Open:12:00 – 02:00 daily

Parovoz Speak Easy Facebook

Definitely one of the best bars in Kyiv.

Alchemist Bar Kiev

Only a few minutes walk from Parovoz this is a very fun bar/dance place and great for your nightlife in Kyiv party time.

On weekends it gets packed and everyone dances until late in the small dance area at the front, often to dj’s pumping out house tunes.

Being that busy is a lot of fun as it’s easy to meet people.

Drinks are just the same as most bars in the area. Reasonable prices.

Address: Shota Rustaveli Street 12

Phone: +380 96 008 7070

Facebook: Alchemist

Kosatka Bar Kyiv

Kosatka bar is chilled out in the day like in this photo but gets very lively at night.

Lovely place with chilled atmosphere. They often have dj’s on the turntables at the weekend and is always packed with a good crowd. They have some good cocktails as well apparently , although I have not tried them.

Beer tastes good here.

5 minutes walk to Bar 13, roughly 15 minutes to Barbara bar and Palata 6.

Reasonable prices.

Address: Velyka Zhytomyrska St, 25/2, Kiev, Ukraine, 02000

Phone:+380 44 272 2530

Open 9.00 to 23.00 weekdays. 9.00 to 3.00 weekends.

Kosatka Facebook

Barbara Bar Kyiv

One of the largest bars mentioned here. If you get it on a packed night (mostly weekends obviously) then it’s a great party place, often with dj’s and a small dance floor.

It also has the benefit of being right next to the Atlas club.

In summer they have a very good terrace on the roof.

Roughly 15 minutes walk to Kosatka and the same to Palata 6.

Address: Sichovykh Striltsiv St, 37

Phone:+380 96 875 7587

Barbara Bar Facebook

Divan Bar Kyiv

Technically this is a restaurant, with many comfortable couch booths to chill on with a group of friends. But it also has a good bar located in the same room with reasonable prices. Most nights they will have live bands playing and it’s right next to the Arena complex.

It’s also one of the bars that stays open the latest. Roll down there at 3 in the morning and chances are you could still be able to grab a drink. Don’t count on it though.

5 minutes walk to Parovoz Speak Easy and 10 to Banka.

Reasonable to cheap prices. They often have discounted drinking times.

Address: Bessarabs’ka Square, 2

Phone:+380 44 235 7366

Open: Usually midday until 3.00 in morning.

Divan Facebook

Juniper Bar Kyiv

A bit of a hipster place with good food and very chilled out friendly atmosphere. Vegetarians will appreciate it here.

You have to take your shoes off before entering so make sure you have clean socks on!

Roughly 5 minutes walk to Pink Freud and 10 -15 to Closer.

Address: Mezhyhirska St 9

Phone: +380932569223

Open 9.00 to 1.00.    9.00 to 2.00 Thursday to Sunday.

Juniper Facebook

Bar 13 Kyiv

Most people miss this place, including locals. But it’s not that far from the Kosatka bar mentioned before and definitely worth checking out for a more mellow vibe. Sometimes they have dj’s playing at the weekends.

They put a lot of effort into making drinks here.

Make sure to try the whisky sour.

5 minutes walk to Kosatka bar and 5 to Buena Vista.

Address: 02000, Reitarska St, 21/13

Phone:+380 66 094 8856

Open: 14.00 to 2.00

Bar 13 Facebook

PR Bar Kyiv

The highlight of this bar, apart from being a chilled little place, is the fact that once a week (currently on Wednesdays) is where the local couchsurfing community meet up. That normally means lots of people and a great way to meet people.

It’s a 50/50 mix of locals and expats, with a few people just passing through. If by yourself in the city just head down there on the couchsurfing night and get talking with strangers.

10 minutes walk to Juniper bar and 15 to UBK Beach bar.

Address: Petra Sahaidachnoho Vulytsia 6A

Phone: +38067 828 1849

Open:  Normally midday until 1.00

PR Bar Facebook

Pink Freud Kyiv

Got to love the name of this one. I haven’t actually made it there yet, but some friends have and recommend it. One friend I trust about partying in Kyiv described why she likes it as being –

“It’s in a yard with some sofas and tables and cool to sit outside. Very good tasty drinks”.

By looking at their pictures it seems to have a good artistic atmosphere as well.

5 – 7 minutes walk to Closer and Juniper.

Apparently reasonable prices.

Address: 19 Nyzhnii Val

Phone: +38050 991 9818

Pink Freud Facebook

Banka Bar Kyiv

This is a chain of student bars in the city and student bars can sometimes mean a lot of fun.

The one recommended to visit is next to Shivshenko University as it’s the most central.

Being a student place it’s also cheap and they have some fun drinking games if you get the right crowd in.

You may get unlucky and it can then simply be just a normal bar, but get the right students coming in to get drunk and the atmosphere livens up.

Drinking games include wearing a helmet and being whacked on the head, and a personal favourite of watching people drink flaming shots through a gas mask.

Drinks are served out of jars.

Same area as Parovoz Speak Easy and Divan. 5 – 7 minutes walk to Parovoz Speak Easy and Divan.

Cheap prices.

Address: Lva Tolstoho St, 11/61

Phone: +380 98 988 7988

Open: Until  1.00

Banka Bar Facebook

UBK Beach Bar and Kyiv Nightclub

Strictly a summer bar as it’s set outside on a beach by the river but perfect for nightlife in Kyiv during the summer.

Beach bars are normally fun and this is the same, with hammocks, hookah pipes, techno/house music on the dance floor, and people gathering on the sand.

It is closed for the rest of the year though outside of late spring/summer/early autumn.

Set out there by itself not really close to the other bars on this list, but still central. Around 15 minutes walk from the central Maidan Square and PR bar.

Phone: +38097 295 5384

UBK Beach Facebook

Closer Kyiv Nightclub

Ok this one is more of a club than a bar but is a lot of fun, especially during summer with the back terrace open for gathering with a drink.

They have different event nights, including art exhibitions, so check on their Facebook page to see what’s going on.

Weekends mostly tends to be techno/house music with some good dj’s often coming from other parts of Europe making it one of the best spots for nightlife in Kyiv.

It’s set in an old factory and is an artistic cool place.

Same area as Pink Freud and Juniper. Several minutes walk to Pink Freud and around 10-15 to Juniper.

You will most likely have to pay entrance here.

Address: Nyzhn’oyurkivs’kyi Ln

Phone:+380 67 250 0308

Open: Depends. Sometimes until 7 in morning and then some!

Closer Facebook

Solomenska Browarnia on Andriyivskyy Descent Bar Kyiv

Somewhere for those looking for craft beer in Kyiv.

This a great microbrewery house located on the beautiful central hill road called Andriyivskyy Descent. This is a new location for this brewery apparently, but I never went to the original.

You can get an excellent 6 beer taster and good beer food. Decent prices as well.

Try the amber ale, it’s delicious.

Some nights they have live bands on the top floor. It’s a big place.

Address: Andriyivskyy Descent 28

Phone: +380 44 248 0777

Of course there are many more craft beer places to check out while in the city.

Buena Vista Latin House Bar Kyiv

Popular with the expat crowd and locals alike. Down in the basement bar area they have salsa nights. Salsa is a popular dance with people in Kiev.

The dancing atmosphere is great . Go on the weekends for the best nights, especially Saturday.

7  minutes walk to Kosatka and Bar 13.

Address: Velyka Zhytomyrska St, 8

Phone: +38044 279 5127

Open: Weekends until 3.00

Buena Vista Facebook

Notable Mentions For Late Late Nightlife Kyiv

These are not really bars, but if you want to continue the drinking into the early hours they are both in the centre and some open 24 hours.

So if at 4.00 you still want to drink then these are some of your only options.

Not the best places, but hey you want to keep drinking. I would only suggest them for that reason. They are also very cheap.

They are only on this list for late night shenanigans when all the good bars listed above close down, except for Closer and UBK which normally run a lot later.

Linas Cafe Kyiv

There are a few of these around the Arena complex area. You can smoke hookah pipes here and it has cheap food and drinks.

Linas Facebook

Mister Cat Olimpiska Kyiv Nightlife

A large restaurant near the olympic stadium which is several minutes walk from Banka, Porovoz Speak Easy, Divan.

It has cheap buy one get one free food between midnight and 5 in the morning (try the pizzas), plus reasonably priced drinks. You can also smoke hookah pipes there.

Perfect for a bit of continued drinking and getting your late night food fix.

And If You Need Your Sport in Kiev

O’brien’s irish bar kyiv.

Oh dear, I never thought I would do it, but yes I’ve added an Irish bar to the list.

I tend to get pretty bored with Irish bars everywhere, but if you are in dire need of needing to watch a sporting match then this is a good place to go.

I wouldn’t really include this in the “best bars” list, but like I said if you need your sporting fix…

Thankfully it has Grimbergen Belgium beer on tap.

It’s close to central Maidan Square.

O’Brien’s Irish Bar Facebook

And Your karaoke in Kyiv

Again this doesn’t go with the best bar part but if you need some late night karaoke then this is it.

They love karaoke in Kyiv and you can find places all over, some small, some big.

I’ll only mention one here though as it is a chain and you can find them in various parts of the centre of the city.

Mafia Karaoke and restaurant

These are big karaoke bars but with reasonable prices and decent food. They also have a good song list and importantly are open very late.

I’ve stumbled out at 6 in the morning from one of these apparently but don’t really have any recollection of it. Singing God save the Queen by the Sex Pistols is one of the last real memories.

So this can go under the very late night drinking category as well.

Needless to say these are fun places to go with a group of friends.

The Best Bars in Kyiv and Nightlife in Kyiv

Yeah, Kyiv is a lot of fun and I’ve had some great fun with the nightlife in Kyiv and bars in Kyiv.

Like I said in the beginning there are plenty of other places that could be mentioned, but these are some of the best.

In the future, more will be added as I get more recommendations and check them out.

So if you’re visiting, or even living there, and looking for the best bars in Kyiv, then hopefully this will give you a good pointer on where start.

Another tip for visiting in summer is just to grab some drinks from a supermarket and go hang out in one of the parks. This is a great way to meet local people as many do the same thing.

Yes finding some of the best bars in Kyiv is fun but sometimes just a drink in the park gets the job done!

FIND PLACES TO STAY IN KYIV HERE

I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.

Also my post on why you should visit Ukraine .

If you liked this post about the best bars in Kyiv and the best nightlife in Kyiv a share would be cool 🙂

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A man of true sacrifice, Jonny Duncan, doing the hard research for the good of us all.

I put myself through a lot of hangovers in the researching of this post 😛

Great list! I am headed to Kiev in March and on the top of my list is checking out the clubbing scene. Will definitely use this as reference!

Nice! Yeah this is more a bar list except for closer, but these are definitely worth checking out. I will be adding more to the list as I check new places out.

Going to Kiev tomorrow so I’m going to check some of these out! Thanks for the tips!

Awesome! Enjoy the drinking 🙂

Great list, Going to put it to good use this weekend!

Kiev is great fun for partying 🙂

nice list 🙂 as a citizen of Kyiv, I approve, all the places are great, can even tell you some more 🙂

Cool 🙂 I may be back there again soon and would always be happy to check out more. Send a private pm through contact page with new ones to drink at.

deal 🙂 BTW, Juniper is closed already 🙁

sitting now here https://www.facebook.com/elmate.com.ua/?fref=ts and advicing it 🙂 also, next time visit Gnezdo https://www.facebook.com/GnezdoBarKiev/?fref=ts

both are with reasonable prices and with hookah 🙂

Cool! Pity about Juniper…

Awesome list! I’d love to check some of these out one day. I definitely didn’t expect that gate to be the entrance to a bar, I’d almost certainly pass it up. Thanks for sharing.

If you ever make it there message me I may be around to meet for some drinking 🙂

I’m glad you have noticed that Ukrainians do not drink vodka )) There’s just a stereotype that Ukrainian men as well as Russians are mostly alcoholics and drink vodka day and night ))

Yeah it is a stereotype… fuck vodka hahaha

very Nice information. Thanks a lot for sharing it

Yeah it is a stereotype… fuck off vodka and cocktail with my girlfriend hahaha

Very valuable information shared by you for alcoholic persons. They will thanks you a lot

Thanks for posting ..

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The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

Getty Images

Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Vacations

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Ukraine Dispatch

Kyiv Nightlife Comes Back Amid Urge for Contact. ‘This Is the Cure.’

Frenzied raves. Crowded bars (with free therapy). And of course, cuddle parties. Nightlife is returning to Ukraine’s capital. But revelers still have to reckon with guilty feelings. Plus curfew.

Young people partying in Kyiv earlier this month. Credit...

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By Jeffrey Gettleman

Photographs by Laura Boushnak

• July 26, 2022

KYIV — The rave had been planned for weeks, with the space secured and the D.J.s, the drinks, the invites and the security all lined up.

But after a recent missile strike far from the front lines killed more than 25 people, including children, in central Ukraine, an attack that deeply unsettled all Ukraine, the rave organizers met to make a hard, last-minute decision. Should they postpone the party?

They decided: No way.

“That’s exactly what the Russians want,” said Dmytro Vasylkov, one of the organizers.

So they rigged up enormous speakers, blasted the air-conditioning and covered the windows of a cavernous room with thick black curtains. Then, they flung open the doors to an old silk factory in Kyiv’s industrial quarter.

And as if on command, the room filled with young men with their shirts stripped off and young women in tight black dresses, everyone moving as if in a trance, facing forward, almost like at a church, the D.J. the altar.

It was dark, sweaty, loud and wonderful. Here was a country locked in a war that touched every person in the room but still, they were dancing their hearts out.

“If you know how to use it, this is the cure,” said one raver, Oleksii Pidhoretskii, a young man who lives with his grandmother and hadn’t been out for months.

After a prolonged silence, Kyiv nightlife is roaring back.

Many people are venturing out for the first time since the war began. To drink by the river. To meet a friend. To sit at a bar and have a cocktail. Or three.

This is a city full of young people who have been cooped up for two years, first because of Covid and then the war with Russia. They yearn for contact. War makes that urge even greater, especially this war, where a Russian cruise missile can take you out, anywhere, anytime.

And now that summer is in full swing, and the heavy fighting is mostly concentrated in Ukraine’s east, hundreds of miles away, Kyiv is finally feeling a little less guilty about going out.

“This was a big question for me: Is it OK to work during the war? Is it OK to pour a cocktail during the war?” said Bohdan Chehorka, a bartender. “But the first shift was the answer. I could see it in the customers’ eyes. It was psychotherapy for them.”

Each passing weekend, in a city that already enjoyed a reputation for being cool , it gets easier to find a party. A hip-hop event the other night became a sea of bobbing heads. The party was held outdoors. For a spell, it started raining. But that didn’t matter. The party was on. On the dance floor, bodies were bumping.

Across town, people spilled out of sidewalk cafes. Inside the bars stood fewer empty stools than just a few weeks ago. Along the Dnipro River, which wends through Kyiv, hundreds of people sat on the walled banks, with friends, and often drinks, silhouetted by the amazingly long twilight and a silky blue sky, soaking up the wonders of a northern clime in the throes of a summer night.

But curfew hangs over this city like a hammer. The party may be on but so is the war.

At 11 p.m., by municipal decree, everyone has to be off the streets. Anyone caught violating this faces a fine or, for young men, a potentially heavier consequence: an order to report for military service. Working backwards, that means bars close at 10, to allow workers to get home. Last call is at 9. So people get going early.

The rave in the old silk factory, for example, started at 2:30 in the afternoon.

Still, even at that odd hour, people at the rave said they succeeded, with the help of the pounding techno and some other aids, in forgetting about the war. They synced up with the bass vibrations, closed their eyes and were able to “dissolve,” and “escape,” they said. Momentarily.

The war is not just a looming shadow but a force that directs everyone’s life, dominates everyone’s thoughts, shades everyone’s moods, even if they’re trying really hard to do the things they enjoyed before.

Both the hip-hop party and the rave donated proceeds to the war effort or humanitarian causes, part of the reason the parties were held in the first place.

And in casual conversations, like one at Pink Freud , a bar, the war keeps coming up. Small talk between a young woman and Mr. Chehorka, the bartender, who also works as a psychotherapist, led to a conversation about hobbies that led to a discussion about books that led, inexorably, to the Russians.

Mr. Chehorka told the young woman that he was selling his large collection of Russian language books because he never wanted to read Russian again.

“This is my own war,” he explained.

He added that he felt the city’s whole psyche had changed. “Kyiv’s different now,” he said. “People are more polite, more friendly. They’re not drinking as hard.”

A yearning for close connection, for something meaningful amid a seismic, terrifying event that won’t end, is what brought two dozen people to a recent“cuddle” party.

Cuddle parties started before the war, but the people who came two Sundays ago — a mix of men and women from their early 20s to mid-60s — said they really needed them now.

The cuddlers gathered in a large, tent-like structure near the river, and as new age music played, they lay on floor cushions in a big warm heap. Some stroked their neighbor’s hair. Others clutched each other tightly, eyes closed, like it was the last embrace they’d ever share with anyone. After about 15 to 20 minutes, the heap stirred awake.

The cuddlers opened their eyes, untangled themselves, stood up and smoothed out their pants. The whole idea is to seek bodily comfort from curling up with a stranger. They found new cuddling partners and new positions.

The instructor was clear that none of this was supposed to be sexual or romantic. But still, it looked like a G-rated orgy.

This cuddling is another dimension of Kyiv’s party scene at the moment: Many social gatherings are specifically engineered to provide solace.

Maksym Yasnyi, a graphic designer, just held a 24-hour yoga party, which he said was “really cool” but it wasn’t like going out before the war.

“Before the war, Kyiv nightlife was sparkling with different colors,” he said. “You could spend the whole night going from party to party. If I allow myself to think about this, I’ll make myself really upset.”

Now, when it hits 10, Kyiv radiates a nervous energy. People drinking on the street, or out by the river, check their watches. They cap the clear plastic bottles of cider they were swigging, get up and walk quickly.

Cars move faster. More run yellow lights. The clock is ticking.

Uber prices triple, if you can find one.

Some young people, seeing the impossibility of hailing a ride, say bye to their friends and duck their heads and start running home, desperate to beat curfew.

At the stroke of 11, Kyiv stops. Nothing moves. The sidewalks lie empty.

All that energy that was building, building, building, suddenly plunges into a stunning, citywide hush.

Oleksandra Mykolyshyn contributed reporting.

Jeffrey Gettleman is an international correspondent and a winner of the Pulitzer Prize. He is the author of “Love, Africa,” a memoir. More about Jeffrey Gettleman

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Kiev Nightlife Guide and Party Tips

Kiev nightlife is an amazing adventure awaiting you to experience. It is the perfect blend of Ukrainian culture, vibrant Kiev lifestyle and bright tradition of Ukrainian friendliness.

Table of Contents

Fun Guide to Enjoy The Glamourous Kiev Nightlife Experience

Without a doubt, Kiev is a treasure for tourists, as it offers beautiful cityscapes, restaurants, historical and architectural monuments. However, its main attraction is the Kiev nightlife, and it is attracting millions of tourists each year to the city.

There is a Nightlife Party in Kiev for Every Taste & Budget

Nightlife in Kiev is not a “one size fits all”, but a mixture of many tastes.

There are wide selections for nightlife events, from glamourous to more frugal Kiev night clubs, disco to beach clubs and even after party clubs. Wow! They go on until early in the morning to the next day’s afternoon.

Winter is Coming & Kiev is Partying!

Despite the cooler winter climate in Kiev, this non-stop, magnificent party capital can offer blood warming evenings and entertainment thanks to wide range of discos, night clubs and bars of all kinds and themes.

Ukrainians are very friendly, love to have fun and party hard until the morning. The last is a tradition brightly reflected by the never-ending, fantastic parties of Kiev Nightlife.

Partying with Kiev Sexy Girls

You can make new friends while partying and enjoying Kiev nightlife. Clubs and bars are great place to meet beautiful, sexy Ukrainian women.

Elegant, glamourous, and stylishly dressed, the friendly ladies of Kiev are pleasant company. Remember to keep it classy and approach with friendly smile.

Arena City, Heart of Kiev Nightlife

Kiev loves to party, and Arena City is a great place to start.

Due to its central location just next to the historic Bessarabska Square, Arena City Kiev is one of the most visited places by tourists.

It is the largest entertainment complex in Kiev and is the honorary capital of fun, party and Kiev nightlife.

Inside Arena City, there are some of the most famous Kiev night clubs, bars, restaurants, shops, and strip clubs.

I recommend you come to Arena City early in the day, experience the best food outlets, have dinner, and then some fun in a club or where ever you like to hang around overnight, party, and dance!

• Address: Baseina St, 2a, Kiev.
• Standard working hours, depending on the facility.

The Best Night Clubs in Kiev

Skybar club.

Located in Arena City, SkyBar Club is an adult entertainment complex in Kiev.

SkyBar is one of the most famous night clubs in Kiev. It has over ten years being known as the best Nightlife party spot in the city.

Staying on top of Kiev nightlife outlets is never easy. That is why the club underwent reconstruction for a few months, but has already opened its doors, as spectacular as ever, hosting customers and entertaining them with fresh collection of global entertainment ideas.

SkyBar is not just a night club with a dance floor. It also has a restaurant, fancy lounge, and a beautiful terrace overlooking the city center.

In addition to hosting events with international DJs, karaoke nights are also organized at SkyBar during the week.

There is a tight dress code enforced at the entrance, so better dress up!

• Address: Velyka Vasylkivska St, 5, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Thursday to Saturday, from 11:00 pm to 6:00 am.

CHI works as night club only twice a week (Friday and Saturday), for the rest of the week it’s open as a restaurant.

Within a few months, CHI managed to establish itself as a prime Kiev nightlife destination. It became known as the fancy VIP nightclub and restaurant in Kiev, mostly attracting wealthy clients.

Prices are on the high side compared to other night clubs in Kiev. Nevertheless, it’s always busy on weekends, and getting inside might be very, very difficult!

The bar at CHI serves great cocktails, and the music played in the club is enjoyable. Most often the music is played by famous international DJs, and goes back and forth between house and trance music.

Dress code is formal at CHI!

Even if you reserve a table and make a deposit, it doesn’t mean that you will pass dress code if you chose not to dress up. So, a word of advice: suit up!

CHI is THE hook up place, as the ladies there stylish and glamorous, and quite sophisticated.

As experienced tour guide in Kiev, I would highly recommend you go there. And as your nightlife tour guide , your chances of enjoying good evening at CHI will octuple!

• Address: Parkova Doroga St, 16 A, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Friday & Saturday, from 11:00 pm to 6:00 am.

D.Fleur Club

Not far from the Dynamo Stadium, D.Fleur is one of the most famous night clubs in Kiev.

Interior design and decoration are an elegant feast for the eyes, spread out over three floors.

The ground floor is a restaurant and lounge bar area, where you can have a drink, initiate and enjoy some conversation.

If you feel like dancing afterward, just go up to the next floor where the main dance floor is located. There is a balcony on the upper level with a good view of the dance floor.

The music played at D.Fleur is not exclusive to a genre or style. Usually recent popular songs are played. Special party events are also organized from time to time.

Prices are between mid-range to expensive compared to the average pricing policy of Kiev night clubs.

There is an X factor making this club trendy among locals and especially popular with women. It is easy to find yourself dancing in the midst of beautiful women!

Dress code is less formal. Just the standard dress code.

So, what do you think?

Should I include this when I plan your Kiev nightlife tour for you ?

• Address: Mykhaila Hrushevskoho St, 3, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Thursday to Saturday, from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am.

Caribbean Club

Not far from Kiev central train station, the Caribbean is a known nightlife destination, and one of the oldest night clubs in Kiev.

As the name suggests, the club plays mainly Latin music, with trance and RnB music also played depending on the night’s program.

Caribbean Club’s diverse and vibrant atmosphere attracts both locals and tourists. Special shows including live music and exotic dancers are quite common.

Maintaining this atmosphere helped maintain the club’s popularity, especially with women between 25-35 years, making it a great meet-up place.

Prices for table reservations and drinks are reasonable.

ID checks as well as the dress code are relaxed. So, feel free to walk-in with confidence.

• Address: Symona Petlyury St, 4, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Wednesday to Saturday, from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am.

Heaven Club

Located at the heart of Kiev and gaining more popularity every day.

Heaven Club is well known not only as a night club, but also sensational after party club where partygoers can continue partying through the night until the next day.

The club is often full around 3:00 am and on some occasions can remain open until noon!

When other Kiev night clubs close, the party moves to Heaven Club. Why not follow it?

ID check is there to keep the troublemakers away, and dress code is relaxed.

• Address: Borysa Hrinchenka St, 7, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Friday and Saturday, from 12:00 am to 10:00 am.

Forsage Club

Forsage’s youthful vibe makes it popular among university students and youth in Kiev. The average age of the goers is something between 18-24 years.

Friday and Saturday are the best time to join the party.

Some tourists find Forsage Club amusing and tend to pay it more than one visit.

The club occupies three floors, each of which plays a different type of music.

Prices are low. Reserving a table with a minimum deposit for drinks will cost up to $30.

Forsage’s advantage is its own disadvantage. It is a student-oriented club and comes with all the issues and difficulties associated that.

• Address: Harmatna St, 51 A, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Monday to Thursday from 10:00 to 6.00, Friday from 10:00 at 7:00, Saturday from 18:00 at 7:00, Sunday from 18:00 at 6:00.

Indigo Club

Not far from Kiev central train station, is the elegant Indigo night club.

The complex consists of restaurant, karaoke, lounge bar and a dance floor.

Morning to afternoon the club operates as a restaurant, and then shifts to work as a bar. After 10:00 pm the night club is up and running.

Indigo enjoys a refined clientele that prefer to party on weekend (Friday and Sunday).

If I am to plan your nightlife tour in Kiev , I will first suggest to go on the weekend.

ID check is somewhat relaxed, with an average dress code.

• Address: Kudryashova St, 3, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 am.

Famous Club

Famous for its daily parties, with quality music and skillful DJs, right at the heart of Kiev in Arena City.

Famous Club is a trendy night club, and an excellent choice for nightlife party lovers. Partying at Famous means energizing music, good drinks, fun karaoke and fine hookah.

This club is a real deal party and nightlife powerhouse. For most of the week it works as lounge bar with the real fun taking place every weekend with themed parties, live music, exotic dancers and dance shows.

• Address: Arena City, Baseina St, 2 a, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Open daily from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am.

Located not far from two Kiev nightlife icons, CHI and D.Fleur, Dali Park is one of ‘Kiev’s top night clubs. It is known for organizing world class concerts and club events, with local and international participants from all around the world.

Kiev partygoers who prefer Dali Park night club include Ukrainian celebrities, many VIPs and some of the most attractive women in Kiev.

Prices are a little bit on the high side but totally worth it.

Dali Park is a seasonal night club and works exclusively during the summer. So if you are planning to visit Kiev during the summer time, just let me know and I will make sure to include it in your nightlife tour.

• Address: Parkova St, 16, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Summer season, Friday and Saturday from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.

Kiev Summer Beach Clubs

Thanks to its geographic location on the banks of Dnieper, Europe’s fourth longest river, Kiev enjoys long beautiful river beaches that became the home for a variety of entertaining beach clubs.

These clubs are seasonal. They start working during spring, end early autumn, and are considered a unique interesting part of Kiev nightlife.

The top summer beach clubs that I always recommend to my guests are:

Bora Bora Beach Club

It is located on a beautiful part of the Dnieper riverbanks with a white sand beach overlooking Kiev City Park, not far from nude beach.

At night, Bora Bora is a buzzing open-air night club, where you can have fun and enjoy the best beach party.

During the peak of summer, Bora Bora invites some of the best local and international DJs to light up Kiev beach, celebrate the sunny days in Kiev, from morning to late afternoon around its private swimming pool.

The club offers great food menu, edgy cocktails, and a chance to have and amazing sexy time at the Bora Bora Beach Club in the company of friendly partygoers.

• Address: Hydropark, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 am. Only during the summer.

City Beach Club

Daily go-go dance performances, live DJ music, competitions, themed events, competitions, shows, great food menu, amazing cocktails, tempting swimming pools and all around sexy party atmosphere. This is City Beach Club in a nutshell.

The club occupies the roof of Ocean Plaza shopping and entertainment complex in Kiev, making for spectacular views.

The average age of City Beach Club clientele is between 20 to 35 years.

The club is basically built around two large swimming pools with a bar, restaurant zone, many tanning ledge pool chairs, dance floor, and unlimited possibilities to flirt and make new friends.

View my article on City Beach Club to get more detailed information .

• Address: Antonovycha St, 176, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 12:00 am. Only during the summer.

Olmeca Beach

Olmeca is an exclusive VIP beach club. Music, style and themes vary and it is known for organizing fabulous private events during summer.

Located on the beach of Dnieper river, Olmeca Beach (Olmeca Plage) is well reputed luxury beach club in Kiev. It has its own river beach and separate large swimming pool and volleyball play areas.

Olmeca Beach is not a permanent Kiev nightlife entertainment complex. Administration tends to take the decision of operating at night during the summer at the beginning of each season.

Contact me in advance . I will let you know if we should include Olmeca or not when we plan your tour together .

• Address: Brovarskyi Avenue, 5, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Only during the summer, depending on the event.

Best Bars and Pubs in Kiev City

Located within the famous Arena City Kiev, The Bar is one the best bars – if not the best – in Kiev.

It consists of two sections, smoking and non-smoking. The former enjoys a small dance floor with life DJ stand, where life DJs often paly RnB, Pop and club music, making for pleasant atmosphere.

Add to it dimmed lights, the smoking section is like a mini night club, making it more fun for smokers!

The Bar deserves the “The” before its name as it is known for serving quality drinks and cocktails, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. That’s why starting your Kiev nightlife journey from The Bar would be a great idea.

The female clientele age range is 18-30 years, mainly local Ukrainian women. As for males, the vast majority are foreigners, with some local presence.

Let me know if you feel like starting your nightlife tour in Kiev at The Bar.

Alchemist Bar

Alchemist Bar is located at the center of Kiev in an old looking building with not much to tell that a bar is anywhere around.

The bar itself occupies part of the building’s basement. You can enjoy the drinks, but no smoking is allowed inside.

Live music and DJs often play at Alchemist Bar making it cool to spend some time there.

Due to its location, this bar is very busy every day. So, if you prefer a table to sitting at the bar, you will need to make a table reservation in advance. But, don’t worry about it. If I plan your nightlife tour in Kiev , I will take care of this part.

• Address: Shota Rustaveli St, 12, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 3:00 am.

This Café/bar is located right at Kiev’s center. It has Middle Eastern interior design and decorations making for warm atmosphere.

Touch Café serves as a great pre-party establishment. It is a good place to start your night adventure in Kiev.

Touch has decent bar and food menus. You can also enjoy smoking hookah there and there is a section for smokers.

Live DJ music plays from 10:00 pm. It is wise to reserve a table in advance if you plan to go there on weekend evening.

Prices are on the high side, when compared to the average café/bar in Kiev. However, quality and cost are well balanced. Rest assured you’ll enjoy your drink, meal and time there in Touch Café.

• Address: Shota Rustaveli St, 16, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Located not far from Maidan square, Buddha Bar is one of Kiev’s favorite bars among both locals and tourists.

Buddha is not only a bar but also a restaurant. The first floor is a restaurant with main mainly Asian cuisine while the lounge bar and dance floor occupy the second floor.

Entertainment peaks on the weekends with go-go dancers dominating the dance floor as part of the weekly program.

• Address: Khreschatyk St, 14, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Monday to Thursday from 1:00 pm to 2:00 am, Friday and Saturday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 am, Sunday from 2:00 pm to 2.00 am.

Known as the perfect spot for hookah lovers, Par Bar is a modern loft with high ceilings, large windows, and soft, comfortable furniture.

Using muffled lights, pleasant music, and rich wall drawings, the owners aimed to replicate a warm cozy feeling, and they succeeded!

You can pass your time while enjoying hookah and a good drink or cocktail.

• Address: Shota Rustaveli St, 10, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Monday to Thursday 12:00 pm to 1:00 am, Friday and Saturday 12:00 pm to 3:00 am, Sunday 12:00 pm – 12:00 am.

GODZ Hookah & Cocktails

An authentic hookah bar in Kiev gained attention of vast clientele with a bold claim of serving up to 700 different flavors of hookah tobacco.

Hookah is not the only thing served at GODZ: fresh drinks, exclusive cocktails and decent food menu add to the smoky experience!

Live DJ music is not rare at GODZ. Depending on the day’s program, RnB, house or trance music is played by skilled DJs.

It is another place that can put you in the mood before you move forward to explore the nights of Kiev and its endless exciting parties.

• Address: Arena Kiev, Baseina St, 2 a, Kiev.
• Standard working hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 5:00 am.

The capital of Ukraine is an amazing city, its nightlife is incredible, and you should really experience it at least once in your life.

With me, Alexandra, as your tour guide in Kiev, you are guaranteed to experience the best Kiev nightlife events, clubs and activates.

Contact me now, to book your Kiev nightlife tour!

Ukraine-Russia war latest: 'Putin did not order Navalny death,' - US report; Another arrest over Moscow concert hall attack

US intelligence agencies have suggested Vladimir Putin most likely did not order Alexei Navalny to be killed, according to the Wall Street Journal. Meanwhile, a 12th person has been arrested over a shooting massacre last month at Moscow concert hall, in which 133 people were killed.

Saturday 27 April 2024 17:15, UK

• 'Putin did not order Navalny death,' - US report
• Twelfth person arrested over Moscow terror attack
• Russian oil refinery suspends operations after Ukrainian drone attack
• Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live reporting by Lauren Russell  and Emily Mee

Anti-tank fortifications, known as "dragon's teeth", have been set up in the eastern region of Donetsk. 

As we've mentioned, Russia has been pushing in the Avdiivka direction and is aiming to reach the strategic town of Chasiv Yar. 

A 52-year-old Ukrainian has been injured after a Russian drone strike hit a truck he was driving, a local governor has said. 

Oleh Syniehubov, the governor of Kharkiv, said the man was taken to hospital in a serious condition. 

He said Russian forces used an FPV drone to hit the truck at around 1pm local time near Vovchansk, a city located less than 10km from the Russian border.

As we mentioned in our previous post, Russia is aiming to capture the eastern Ukrainian town of Chasiv Yar at all costs. 

The town sits in Ukraine's Donetsk region, less than 10km west of the occupied city of Bakhmut. 

Russian forces have been pushing forward in eastern Ukraine following their capture of Avdiivka in February, and have been swallowing up villages in the area. 

But Chasiv Yar is the key goal for Russia, which is using a grouping of more than 20,000 soldiers to attack the town. 

Ukraine is both outgunned and outnumbered in its defence, but it does have the advantage that Chasiv Yar lies on high ground which serves as a natural defensive structure. 

The town has the highest point in the area, and is divided in the east by the Siverskyi Donets-Donbas canal. 

Chasiv Yar was used as a Ukrainian stronghold when Russia initially invaded the Donbas region in 2014. 

It hosted a key military hospital and also served as the headquarters for the Joint Forces Operation. 

Ukraine has been using the town as a regrouping hub and fire support base during the full-scale invasion that started in 2022. 

There is another reason Russia has its sights set on the town.

The capture of Chasiv Yar would pave the way for Russia to launch a broader offensive in the Donetsk region - which is currently about 50% under Russian control. 

Russia has already reached the outskirts of Chasiv Yar, and Ukrainian officials have warned Moscow wants to seize the town by Russia's military holiday on 9 May. 

The Kremlin has said that it will explore ways to overcome what it called any illegal sanctions the European Union imposes on its liquified natural gas (LNG).

Earlier this week three EU sources said the European Commission's next sanctions package is expected to propose restrictions on LNG for the first time. 

The proposal would not ban imports of Russian LNG to Europe, but instead target trans-shipments, which move gas from one vessel to another that then sails onto its final destination. 

The transfers are usually done in port areas.

Reacting, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "Attempts to squeeze Russia out of energy markets and switch to more expensive markets are continuing.

"Of course, in any case, we will look for ways to overcome these illegal obstacles, unfair competition and illegal actions."

Why sanctions on LNG now?

The EU announced a ban on Russian seaborne oil imports soon after the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, but the bloc has stopped short of prohibiting LNG, despite repeated calls by the Baltic states and Poland.

But Russia supplies the EU with 40% of its gas and 30% of its oil.

In fact, imports of Russian LNG to Europe have increased since the war began, with Belgium, France, and Spain the biggest takers.

Finding an alternative LNG provider would have to be coordinated by the West. 

Moscow has sent more troops to the village of Ocheretyne in eastern Ukraine to reinforce their offensive there, the Ukrainian military has said. 

Russian troops have been slowly advancing through at least half a dozen villages on the eastern front after capturing the town of Avdiivka in February. 

While fierce fighting rages in Ocheretyne today, a spokesman for Ukraine's eastern command said his forces had the situation "under control" and that they still controlled two-thirds of the village. 

Nazar Voloshyn said his troops shelled the part of the village seized by Russian forces, adding "the enemy is blocked and measures are being taken to kick them out". 

He said he expected military aid from the US to help turn around the situation in the area. 

Russian forces are also trying to capture the strategic town of Chasiv Yar at all costs, Mr Voloshyn said. 

They have not yet managed to enter the town, which lies on high ground. 

A 12th person has been arrested in connection with a shooting massacre in a packed Moscow concert hall last month, according to a Moscow court ruling. 

Dzhumakhon Kurbonov is suspected of providing others involved in the attack with money and "telecommunications means".

The court ruled today that he should remain in custody until at least 22 May.

The man is believed to be from Tajikistan, according to Russian news reports.

At the end of last month 11 people, including four gunmen, had been arrested in connection to the incident.

At least 133 people died in the attack on the 6,000-capacity Crocus City Hall, in the western Moscow suburb of Krasnogorsk - making it the second-deadliest single terror attack in Russia's history.

In April 2023 116 Russian military personnel were convicted of murder - 900% higher than the previous year. 

The same time this year, Russian media outlet Vertska reported that 190 former convicts were prosecuted again in criminal cases - 20 of whom were for murder or attempted murder.

One of those included an ex-Wagner prisoner who was sentenced to 22 years after murdering an elderly woman after his release.

The UK's Ministry of Defence puts this high number of murders by serving and veteran Russian soldiers down to enduring war-related chronic poor mental health issues. 

It says post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and battlefield desensitisation to violence are also likely contributors. 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a new appeal for air defence systems after the latest strike on Ukraine's energy sector.

Mr Zelenskyy said Ukraine needed sufficient quantities of air defence and other weapons to protect its cities and prevail on the frontline.

"Terror should always lose, and anyone who helps us stand against Russian terror is a true defender of life," he said.

Earlier, we reported that Ukraine's air force said that it had intercepted 21 out of 34 drones launched across the country.

Energy facilities in Dnipropetrovsk in the south of the country and Ivano-Frankivsk and Lviv in the west had been attacked.

Private energy operator DTEK reported "casualties" after four of its thermal power plants were damaged.

Maxim Timchenko, DTEK chief executive, said the strikes are a cause for stronger defence. 

"Last night's attacks underline the continued urgent need for Ukraine's allies to provide stronger air defence systems," he said.

The newest appeal comes in spite of a military aid package from the US which will provide munitions and equipment for its air defence launchers.

One person has died and 14 have been injured after attacks on several regions in Ukraine, local authorities have said.

The areas of Kherson, Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Dnipropetrovsk were all targeted overnight.

In the Kherson region, one person died and eight others were injured, according to governor Oleksandr Prokudin.

While in Kharkiv, Russian forces hit a psychiatric hospital, injuring a 53-year-old patient.

Governor Oleh Syniehubov said 60 patients and five employees were in the hospital at the time. 

Russian troops launched a total of 16 attacks against settlements in the Donetsk region, destroying or damaging 12 houses and five other unnamed buildings, Vadym Filashkin, the regional governor, said.

Three people were injured.

Dnipropetrovsk

An 82-year-old woman was injured during several strikes in the Dnipropetrovsk area.

Governor Serhii Lysak said seven blocks of flats, a market and a beauty salon were among the buildings damaged.

Following on from our last post, the Kremlin has said China and Russia will continue to develop ties after efforts by the US to curb relations between the two nations. 

It follows US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, saying he had reiterated to China's top diplomat Wang Yi the serious concerns the US has about the country providing dual-use goods that are "powering Russia's brutal war of aggression against Ukraine".

Those weapons are being used to "demolish a power grid and other civilian infrastructure and to kill innocent children, women and men", Mr Blinken said.

When asked about Mr Blinken's comments, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said China is an "absolutely sovereign state".

He added: "At the same time, it [China] is our close partner. We will further develop our co-operation." 

China maintains that it has not provided weaponry to any party and is "not a producer of or party involved in the Ukraine crisis".

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