FRENCH DAZE & IBIZA NIGHTS

A VIRGIN VOYAGE THROUGH SPAIN & THE FRENCH RIVIERA

BARCELONA, MARSEILLE, CANNES, MALLORCA, IBIZA | JUNE 23 - 30, 2024

TRIP DESCRIPTION:

Ready to kick off your summer with Gals Abroad Getaways on a fabulous 7-night voyage to some of the hottest spots along the French Riviera?! 

Join the Gals on an adults-only Virgin Voyage, to Ibiza, Mallorca, Cannes, Marseille, and Barcelona on a high-end, anything-but-ordinary voyage.

This is NOT your grandparents’ cruise…in fact, it's not a cruise, it's a VOYAGE.

 We like to say this is the “cruise” for the Gals who say they'd never go on a cruise. Having personally experienced Virgin Voyages, we can wholeheartedly give it our Gals Abroad Getaways stamp of approval and can't wait to share this elevated experience with you. 

Forget buffet lines and crowded pools, Virgin Voyages offers something totally different. From 20 unique dining venues with Michelin-star chef-prepared menus to a variety of bars and cocktail lounges you *actually* want to hang out at. Virgin includes ALL THE THINGS in the price of your trip: all meals onboard [including room service], essential drinks [non-alcoholic], tips, wifi, group fitness classes + their “festival-esque” lineup of shows & entertainment.

The best part of all: this cruise is adults only (aka no crying kids allowed)

*** BY REQUESTING TO REGISTER FOR THIS TRIP YOU ARE AGREEING THAT UPON ACCEPTANCE YOU WILL PAY THE NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT. ***

Please be aware that by completing the form at the button above, you are officially expressing interest in joining this trip. Final confirmation of your acceptance will only be given after our information call that you will schedule at the end of the form.

 If you complete this form and do not comply, your name will be flagged for future Gals Abroad Getaways trips.

** We reserve the right to decline any request to travel with Gals Abroad Getaways**

OUR PORTS OF CALL:

Barcelona - Port City

With its laid-back attitude, fresh-from-the-sea cuisine, and thriving art scene, Barcelona is the envy of every other Mediterranean city. Barcelona boasts nine UNESCO World Heritage sites for visitors to marvel at. The Catalonian capital attracts bohemians, nomads and separatists seeking independence.

You’ll fly in and out of Barcelona, with the cruise departing in the early evening on the 23rd and returning in the early morning of the 30th. You will have the option to arrive early or stay late & we can help arrange hotels + share some ideas on how to spend your time in Barcelona if you choose to extend your trip.

Marseille, France - 1 Day

With the glamorous French Riviera to its east and quaint Provençal towns to its north, Marseille is the crossroads of Southern France. Its bustling port welcomes in a wave of diverse cultures giving it a distinct character that has contributed to the soul of Marseille.

Some of the optional excursions at this stop include walking tours of Marseille and nearby Aix-en-Provence, Hiking in the National Park of Calanques, and a visit to the small town of Chateauneuf-du-Pape for a wine-tasting tour.

Cannes, France - 1 Day

Famed for its annual star-studded international film festival, posh sunlounger-striped beaches, and massive yachts moored at the port, Cannes is one of the most glamorous cities in the French Riviera. A stroll down La Croisette, the town's long beach promenade, will lead you to numerous designer bars, couture stores, and fabulous hotels nestled in stunning old palaces.

Some of the optional excursions include a small boat ride to a guided tour of San Tropez, a Walking tour of Antibes, or a full-day tour of nearby Monte Carlo.

Palma de Mallorca, Spain - 1 Day

Hidden coves, hilltop villages and limestone mountains make the island of Mallorca an irresistible stop in the Mediterranean. Palma de Mallorca (Palma for short) rose from instability — switching between Roman, Byzantine, and Moor rule — and blossomed into an oasis. Today, expats and entrepreneurs populate Palma, living la vida loca with the highest standard of living in Spain.

Some optional excursions at this stop include a sail around the Bay of Palma, touring the mountain town of Valldemossa, or popping (wine) bottles at a family-run wine estate.

Ibiza - 2 days

Thanks to its iconic nightclubs and star-studded DJ sets, Ibiza earned its reputation as the party capital of the world. So, Ibiza’s true beach-bum personality and quiet seaside streets might surprise you. Once you get to know its free-spirited culture, sandy coves and historic Dalt Vila, you’ll have a clearer picture of the most talked-about Balearic island.

Optional Shore Excursions include experiencing Ibiza’s day and night beach clubs, wandering through the Bohemian markets, or exploring the nearby island of Formentera.

What makes this cruise worthy of a Gals Abroad Getaways trip?

Let us be straight with you. We aren’t big cruise gals and we truly never planned on offering a trip like this. BUT a Virgin Voyage is anything but your typical cruise & we have a feeling you’re going to love them too.

At the end of 2022, Linda and I had the opportunity to personally experience a Virgin Voyage and we were BLOWN away. And we haven’t shut up about it since.

These voyages cater to an entirely different travel audience - adults-only, luxury-loving, adventurous travelers who are looking to experience something a bit different alongside a community of like-minded travelers who want to explore some of the world’s most fabulous destinations.

HOW IS THIS TRIP DIFFERENT FROM OUR CLASSIC GETAWAYS?

Traveling on this Voyage will look slightly different than our standard Getaways.

  • We want to give you total control when it comes to customizing your Virgin Voyage. This means selecting shore excursions that interest you most, picking shows based on your preferences & dining at the restaurants you want to experience most.

  • More opportunities to make new travel pals - normally we cap our groups at 20 but due to the unprecedented interest we're increasing that number to 40 gals. While onboard you'll of course have our core GAG Squad to hang out with but we are also sharing the ship with other Virgin Voyages Sailors [trust us, the dynamic on board is a BLAST]

  • Fewer “exclusive” Gals Abroad Getaways organized group dinners & activities to allow you to mix and mingle as you please

You asked - we listened!

If you have traveled with us before, you know we love traveling in the shoulder season - typically in spring and fall. But what about our Gals who can only travel in the summer months? Educators and students - we’re looking at you :) Traveling in June will allow more new Gals to join us, but still fall at a time when Europe’s “summer break” isn’t in full swing until July and August - when things really get crazy busy [and HOT]!

THE DETAILS:

  • DATES: June 23rd - June 30th, 2024

  • TRIP LENGTH: 7 nights, 8 days in Barcelona, Marseille, Cannes, Palma de Mallorca, and Ibiza

  • TRIP STYLE: Luxury relaxation onboard with opportunities to explore on-land

  • ACCOMMODATION: Double Occupancy (however single rooms may be available upon request & at an additional cost)

  • OPEN TO: Gal pals, sisters, cousins, BFFs, or solo gals (we will always help to pair solo gals with a roommate)

  • SIZE: 40 travelers max (10 min for the trip to move forward)

WHO THIS TRIP IS FOR:

  • The Gal who is all about maximizing her time abroad - we're visiting 5 iconic European cities on this voyage but we only need to unpack once 😉

  • The Gal who likes A LOT of choices - Whether that's lounging by the pool with a drink in hand or hitting the ground running at each of our stops - this trip is ALL about what you want to do most. Prefer to get up early and enjoy yoga on the top deck or relax at the spa? The vibe on this Getaway is: You Do You Boo

  • The Gal who loves to explore during the day & is up for a party [or a few] at night - The entertainment on board is NEXT LEVEL with nightly themed parties and shows to rival any Las Vegas performance. While you always have the option to opt out, you'll be hard pressed to miss the fun

  • The Gal who wants to travel with a group, but appreciates some alone time - This trip offers more opportunities to do your own thing for anyone who likes to fly solo. But don’t worry, we'll organize special Gals Abroad Getaways activities and meet-ups throughout the voyage for when you feel like joining.

** This trip is open to any self-identifying woman 21 years and older **

French daze & Ibiza nights virgin Voyage Inclusions

PRICE PER PERSON IF SHARING A CABIN: $2,181

PRICE IF JOINING SOLO: $3,181 - $4,238 [Price dependent on cabin selection]

DUE AT REGISTRATION: 20% NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT

THE FULL BALANCE IS DUE 120 DAYS BEFORE SAILING: FEBRUARY 23RD, 2024

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR TRIP:

  • 7 nights of accommodations on the French Daze & Ibiza Nights Virgin Voyage on the Scarlet Lady

  • Meals and (non-alcoholic) drinks on board

  • Group fitness classes onboard (yoga, meditation, cycling, and HIIT classes)

  • Nightly shows and entertainment onboard

  • Tips for the Virgin Voyages crew

  • WiFi on unlimited devices

  • $250 Bar Tab Per Cabin

  • $200 Onboard Ship Credit Per Cabin [Additional $200 Ship Credit Per Cabin if you join our Virtual Cruise Night & Book before 2/13]

  • Top Secret Gals Abroad Surprises & gifts! 

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

  • International Flights

    • Gals Abroad Getaways can make flight recommendations based on your arrival & departure

  • Travel Insurance (required)

    • **Gals Abroad Getaways can help you secure a policy**

  • Airport transfers to and from the ship

    • **Gals Abroad Getaways can assist you with arranging transfers if needed**

  • Alcohol onboard

  • Optional shore excursions

  • Meals/Alcohol during onshore excursions

  • Additional nights in Barcelona at the beginning or end of your trip

  • Souvenirs

WHat the CABINS looks like:

These aren’t your average cabins… Virgin’s clever cabin technology and sophisticated styling make for the ultimate space to hide away, relax, and get ready to sail the Med. We love that the rooms are full of planet-friendly products and natural materials. Plus each room is designed to automatically conserve energy when you're not in them.

There are roomy rain showers, comfortable beds & a terrace to take all the sights as you sail by. Every cabin gives you the space to recover and prepare for the next day’s adventure!

For our sailing, we are reserving exclusively XL Sea Terrace Rooms for all of our Gals to ensure you have PLENTY of room in your shared cabin during your voyage.

If you opt to join us solo, you have the option to select between an XL Sea Terrace or a Sea View Room [we have a limited number of Sea View Rooms available & want you to know that those rooms do not come with a terrace].

**If you would like to upgrade to a Rockstar Suite, please inquire so we can give you exclusive pricing**

Restaurants & Lounges Onboard

Virgin Voyages reimagined how its sailors dine onboard. Say goodbye to big ole buffets and crowded dining halls. Virgin’s 20+ eateries are impeccably designed intimate spaces that feature Michelin-starred chef-curated menus, a variety of cuisines, handmade cocktails, and wait for it….the food is DELICIOUS. Each space is unique and will have you feeling like you are going out to eat at your favorite local spot. Virgin’s foodie-approved eateries range from food truck favorites to ten-course feasts. With vegetarian options available at every restaurant.

Restaurant Choices:

  • The Wake - Steak and Seafood [the hot spot for brunch too!]

  • Razzle Dazzle - Casual Dining for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner [vegetarian forward menu]

  • Pink Agave - Upscale Mexican [one of our personal favorites!]

  • Gunbae - Interactive Korean BBQ

  • Extra Virgin - Italian

  • The Test Kitchen - Unconventional Cooking

  • Lick Me Till… - Ice Cream

  • The Dock & The Dock House - Mediterranean

  • The Pizza Place - Made to Order Pizza [the BEST late night eats]

  • The Social Club - Carnival Classics

  • The Galley - Variety of Quick Bites, Food Truck Style

  • On the Rocks - Cocktail Bar

  • Sip - Champagne Lounge [they make a killer espresso martini]

  • The Aquatic Club - Pool Bar

  • Athletic Club Bar - Juices and Low ABV Choices

  • Sun Club - Sun Deck Bar Overlooking the Pool

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

On every voyage, you get more than $1,000 of value which includes access to all premium dining at 20+ eateries with menus curated by Michelin star chefs, group fitness classes, WiFi, gratuities, award-winning entertainment, and a soda and drinks package.

WHAT CAN YOU DO ON THE SHIP?

ENTERTAINMENT: Virgin has swapped classic Broadway productions for modern, and immersive entertainment developed by the world’s most-talked-about directors, choreographers, and artists.

Here’s a taste of just some of the entertainment offerings:

  • Scarlet Night - The entire ship is transformed into a menagerie of delights and epic experiences. Sailors are encouraged to wear their most fabulous red outfit

  • PJ Party - Who doesn’t love a PJ party?! It’s simple: wear PJs & dance the night away

  • The Manor Night Club - The two-story, three-bar space, named after Richard's first recording studio is the place to be most every evening

  • Private Karaoke Rooms - Reserve these in advance & sing until your heart is content

  • The Red Room - This is where you’ll go to enjoy boundary-pushing performances similar to what you’d see in Vegas

  • AND SO MUCH MORE!

WELLNESS: Whether you’re looking to get pampered, recharge, or keep your fitness goals strong, you’ll honestly find yourself wishing there were more hours in the day to enjoy all the well-being offerings available on board. From cozy saunas to ample sundecks, yoga classes to Ayurvedic treatments, acupuncture to a boxing ring — you’re guaranteed to relax, energize, and be spoiled beyond belief.

  • The Redemption Spa

  • Mani & Pedi Spa

  • Dry Bar for Blowouts

  • A tattoo parlor

  • A red running track encircling the ship

  • AND MORE!

WHAT WE’RE DOING:

This Voyage will take us to some of the Med’s most sensational seaside spots. Visit the stunning city of Marseille, bask in Cannes’ glam from day-to-night, and take in Palma de Mallorca’s regal scenery. Resetting with a relaxing day at sea, you’ll finish the voyage with a full day and overnight stay in the vibrant Spanish island of Ibiza.

French Daze & Ibiza Nights Itinerary:

  • DAY 1: BARCELONA - Ship sets sail at 06:00 PM (all aboard 2 hrs before departure)

  • DAY 2: MARSEILLE - 8:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M.

  • DAY 3: CANNES - 8:00 A.M. - 9:00 P.M.

  • DAY 4: SAILING DAY

  • DAY 5: PALMA DE MALLORCA - 8:00 A.M. - 8:00 P.M.

  • DAY 6: IBIZA - ARRIVE AT 7 P.M.

  • DAY 7: IBIZA - DEPART AT 5 P.M.

  • DAY 8: BARCELONA - Ship arrives at 6:30 A.M. (Please allow up to an hour for the Gangway to open the disembark)

At every port of call you have the option to explore on your own or choose from the MANY shore excursions Virgin Voyages has curated. From night clubs in Ibiza and sailing around Mallorca to wine tasting in Chateauneuf-du-Pape and strolling the streets of Saint Tropez - you have the freedom to choose what excursions (if any) interest you most. Plus with our group, you get exclusive sign-up access before any other sailors.

This Gals Abroad Getaways Voyage is truly ALL about what you want to do most. We’ve given you the freedom to chart your own course. Outside of our welcome & farewell dinners, the rest of this journey is up to your discretion. No pre-assigned seating, no firm schedules, no limited options, no nonsense — just tons of opportunities to explore these amazing destinations with like-minded gals.

SUSTAINABILITY ONBOARD

Let’s be honest, sustainability isn’t the first word that comes to mind when you think of cruising. But Virgin is doing its part to change that.

“There is nothing more important in this world than our oceans, and we’re on a mission to protect them and set an example. Success needn’t compromise sustainability” - Richard Branson

  • Banned the use of single-use plastic straws, water bottles, shopping bags, take-away cups, etc. onboard

  • Partnering with sustainable brands (ones that empower women)

  • The heat from the ship’s engines is turned into clean energy & wastewater is purified

  • All ships are carbon neutral through the purchase of carbon offsets 

  • Tinted windows, LED lighting and eco mode room sensors are used to cut down on Virgin’s carbon footprint 

  • Eliminating buffets in an effort to reduce food waste

  • 65% of tours are with operators that meet sustainable tourism standards


MEET YOUR HOSTS

Alle Pierce

Founder of Gals Abroad Getaways & Tour Host

FAST FACTS

1. Favorite destinations: 3-way tie between India, Greece & South Africa

2. Cat mom of four (all named after my favorite destinations around the world)

3. Requires at least 2 cups of coffee every morning to survive

4. Can justify any purchase no matter how unnecessary

5. Can’t travel without my portable charger & at least 2-3 different hats

Linda Pawelski

Luxury Travel Advisor at Scorby Travel and Cruise & Tour Host

FAST FACTS

1. Top 3 favorite destinations: India, Bhutan & South Africa

2. Avid bird watcher & master gardener

3. Seriously committed to sustainability & the environment

4. Serious oenophile (but I only drink heavy red)

5. Notorious over-packer (which means if you forgot something I probably have extra)



WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?

Cancellations need to be reviewed on an individualized basis as described within your mandatory travel insurance policy provisions (which Gals Abroad Getaways will assist you in purchasing).

If cancellation occurs between 120 and 45 days prior to the voyage sail date, you will receive a 50% Future Voyage Credit for any voyage fare paid (though money paid for taxes and fees, and bookables would be refunded).

***Your deposit to secure your space is non-refundable under any circumstances***


QUESTIONS?

  • Can I come solo?

    • YES OF COURSE (that’s what most of our gals do)! Please make a note of this on your registration & we will always work to pair you with a fellow solo traveler who is in the same cabin category as you. If we cannot find you a roommate, you would have the option to join & pay a single supplement fee or opt to join us at a later date. Email to galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com if you have any questions!

    How much free time will we have?

    • As much as you want! This is the beauty of this style of Gals Abroad Getaways trip. You are in the driver’s seat of designing your day. You’ll have the option to book shore excursions, sign up for complimentary workout classes, enjoy ALL the amazing entertainment on board or literally do nothing other than chill at the pool. The best part about this is that no matter what you choose to do, there will always be another Gal who wants to do the same thing as you!

  • Can I come early or stay late?

    • Of course! When requesting to register we are taking a head count of all the gals who want to arrive early or stay late. As always, we’re more than happy to assist with booking hotels & activities for any Gals arriving early or extending their stay. Have more questions - shoot us an email galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com

  • What is the activity level?

    • This Virgin Voyage is ENTIRELY what you make of it. While we don’t 100% encourage this because the destinations we’ll be visiting are amazing, you could lounge in the sun all day with a cocktail in hand. OR you could hit the ground running at every port of call & take one of the many included fitness classes each day. This trip is different from our traditional Getaways in that you are in complete control of your experience & we’re simply here to help facilitate your fun and cheer you on, whatever you decide to do.

  • Is there an age requirement/limit for this trip?

    • You must be 21 years of age or older to join any Gals Abroad Getaway. While we do not have an age limit we do suggest that anyone joining this trip be comfortable with walking for up to 3 hours.

  • What should I pack?

    • Don’t you worry, we will send out a packing list well in advance to those attending so that you have PLENTY of time to shop and plan so you can feel your most fabulous self on your Getaway.

  • How can I get to know the other gals on this trip?

    • Prior to this trip, we will be sending out a Gals Abroad Getaways “Get to Know the Gals” document + some exciting virtual, IRL opportunities to get to know one another before the trip kicks off.

  • Do I need to purchase travel insurance?

    • Yes, everyone will be required to purchase travel insurance for this trip. In order for pre-existing conditions to be covered, this insurance must be purchased no later than 7 days from the date of initial deposit. When you are confirmed for the trip, we will follow up with insurance options and costs. Travel insurance allows you to seek reimbursement for your trip costs if your plans change for unforeseeable reasons or if you need medical help/emergency transport or experience theft, loss or damage of items while traveling. 

  • Is there a minimum number of participants required to run the trip?

    • Yes. We require a minimum of 10 travelers to run this trip

  • Is there a waiting list?

    • There will be a waiting list that will run on a first-come, first-serve basis in the event of a space opening up. If this particular trip is full, and you’re still interested in coming, please send an email to galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com to be added to the waiting list

  • Still, have questions? No worries!

    • Send us an email galsabroadgetaways@gmail.com and we’d be more than happy to help!