Daily Archives: June 28, 2023


Sunday, January 28 – Monday, February 5, 2024 – Natural Wonders of the Caribbean

Explore the exquisite beauty of the Caribbean on an intimate, luxurious cruise aboard Le Bellot, one of Ponant’s beautiful new Explorer Class yachts that combines elegant design with innovative, environmentally friendly equipment. The nine-day getaway from January 28 to February 5, 2024 features thoughtfully planned excursions focused on Caribbean gardens and the natural world. This American Horticultural Society travel study trip is with AHS Expert and Host Holly H. Shimizu.  

Highlights: 

  • A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. 
  • UNESCO World Heritage sites: The Pitons of St. Lucia and Historic Bridgetown in Barbados. 
  • A true picture-perfect sampling of the West Indies: endless white-sand beaches, colorful reefs, idyllic turquoise waters, and the laid-back island way of life. 
  • A discovery of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, considered one of the world’s most stunning archipelagos. 
  • A barbecue lunch on your private beach on the island of Mayreau. 
  • Opportunities to sample local specialties, such as chocolate, spices, and rum. 
  • Exceptional seabeds and reefs with the possibility to observe turtles, barracudas, spiny lobsters, and parrotfish. 
  • Myriad opportunities to swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. 
  • Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board (additional cost). To confirm your interest and request the detailed brochure, please contact us at travel@ahsgardening.org or (703) 768-5700, ext 117.
Terre-de-Haut Island, Les Saintes, Guadeloupe archipelago

Sundays, July 9 & July 16, 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm – Native Woody Plant Materials

Explore the huge variety of native trees, shrubs, and woody vines. You will learn which species grow well in shade, which support local wildlife, and how to stagger plantings for continual bloom, fruit production, and fall color. The two-part Native Plant Trust course on July 9 and 16 at Garden in the Woods in Framingham addresses growth characteristics, cultural requirements, and best horticultural uses. Trevor Smith instructs. $108 for NPT members, $132 for nonmembers. Register at http://www.nativeplanttrust.org/events/native-woody-plant-materials/