Here is your wholesome travel and cruise roundup for Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Star Princess Sets Sail for Alaska

The highlight of the day is happening right now in Seattle. After months of anticipation, the Star Princess is departing Pier 91 at 3:00 PM today for her very first voyage to the “Great Land.” This inaugural 7-night Inside Passage sailing is a major event for the fleet, kicking off a season that will carry nearly 90,000 guests to the glaciers and historic ports of the North. It’s a proud day for the crew and a dream come true for the thousands of travelers boarding this afternoon.

Dollywood Celebrates 40 Years of Dreams

Further east, one of the travel industry’s most beloved destinations is hitting a major milestone. Today marks the 40th anniversary of Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Dolly Parton officially opened the park four decades ago to bring world-class entertainment and jobs to her “Tennessee Mountain Home.” Today, it remains the world’s most-awarded theme park for hospitality, celebrated for its “cinnamon bread” tradition and its deep commitment to the local Appalachian community.

The Resilience of Astoria’s Volunteers

In a heartening look at how travel supports local people, the town of Astoria, Oregon, is sharing the success of its “Clatsop Cruise Hosts.” This group of dedicated local volunteers greets every disembarking cruiser with samples of roasted nuts and local maps. While the program started as an economic boon, the volunteers say their real joy comes from the one-to-one relationships they build with visitors, showcasing their historic town one handshake at a time.