Elite Traveler July-August 2018

EXPLORE TOP SUITES

Iconic Suite CELEBRITY EDGE , CELEBRITY CRUISES

largest accommodation. A soothing palette of grays from designer Kelly Hoppen dresses the modern space, which is dotted with carefully considered art and design elements. Sitting just above the bridge at the top of the ship, you’ll have the best view on board — even better than the captain’s — thanks to 82ft of windows that line the dining room, living room and master bedroom. Outside those panoramic windows, the 700-sq-ft veranda is practically your own sundeck, with a hot tub, sun loungers and a shaded cabana with double daybed. With your butler on hand to bring you another piña colada, sea days might become your favorite. Incredible itinerary Immerse yourself in Spanish and Portuguese culture and cuisine with a 10-night Iberian Peninsula Cruise. Departing from Southampton, England’s famed docks, you’ll have four days at sea to enjoy the new Celebrity Edge. The stops include charming coastal cities and bustling Lisbon before finishing off in Rome. Special amenities Butler service, butler’s pantry, prepaid tips, premium beverage package, unlimited high-speed internet, king-size cashmere mattresses in both bedrooms Size 2,581 sq ft Rate $35,849 per person based on double occupancy for 10 nights, celebritycruises.com

Expect to be wowed by the theatricality aboard Celebrity Edge , the first in a new class of ships. From the cantilevered Magic Carpet, a tennis-court-sized space that, like a magic carpet or enormous elevator, climbs the ship to transform into two different restaurants, an extension of the pool deck or an embarkation station, to Eden, a three-story-high space filled with greenery, interactive performances and innovative cuisine, there’s mystery on the high seas. The culinary presentation, especially in Eden, would not be out of place in one of fine dining’s most imaginative restaurants. At the bar, mixologists might climb ladders to snip the perfect garnish from the plants behind them, and in its restaurant, a signature dish is sea urchin topped with smoking, shaved dry ice, served in a glass cone set over a bowl of live fish. In total, there are 29 dining venues, notably four main restaurants, the beloved Cosmopolitan and new French, Italian and Greek options, and Luminae, which is exclusive to Suite Class guests. There are also plenty of relaxation options, including the reenvisioned adults-only Solarium and outward-facing main pool. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom Iconic Suite is the fleet’s most luxurious and

Photo Eric Laignel