There is a lot to consider when you're choosing a cruise, but the first and most important decision should be where you want to go. Do you want to have fun in the sun? Maybe you want to see a place that you've never seen before. These destinations have all that and more.
1. Caribbean
The Caribbean islands have some
of the most iconic and most reliable cruise destinations. If you include
Mexico, it becomes what most people think of when they hear the word
"cruise". It might not be the most thrilling cruise, but sometimes
you just want to relax. The white-sand beaches and bright sunshine should help
you with that. Plus, since this is one of the biggest cruise markets in the
world, you're sure to find plenty of deals and a wide variety of options.
2. Greek Islands
Few sights are as picturesque
as a Greek fishing village from the vantage of a boat deck out on the Aegean
Sea. Whether you are a fan of classic literature, art, or just great food, you
are sure to find what you're looking for during your own personal Odyssey in
the Grecian islands.
3. Israel
If you're thinking Greece,
you're right in the neighborhood for spectacular
cruises to Isreal. There are two major ports in the country: Ashdod and
Haifa. Both have their unique charms, with history, culture and plenty more to
explore.
4. Australia
It's time to talk about the
land down under. Australia is a lovely place to experience a unique but
familiar culture in an exotic natural setting. It also has another thing going
for it: It is in the southern hemisphere. That means, for most of us, the
Australian summertime is our winter — the timing might just work out.
5. Mekong River
One of the most important
waterways in the world and the center of a thriving, ancient culture, the
Mekong river is as stunning as any ocean or sea. Picture misty hills carpeted
with verdant jungle, bustling floating markets and interesting new customs. In
fact, if you are on the fence about being out in open water, there are plenty
of beautiful inland waterway tours around the world, from Norway's fjords to
the good old Mississippi River.
6. Arctic
Ready for something off the
beaten path? Arctic
cruises might be just the thing. If you were like many people, you have
never seen planet earth, the way it is in the Arctic. Unrestrained, shockingly
beautiful nature, animals you have only seen in the zoo and much more. There is
no better way to see this part of the world than by sea — especially since many
parts of the Arctic are not even accessible by trains or roadways.
7. South Japan
With its own regional dialogue,
cuisine and culture, the south of Japan is an interesting counterpoint to the
bustling cities like Tokyo or the stately, reserved beauty of the Kansai
region. Also, although you might not necessarily associate beaches with Japan,
the Okinawa area has some of the most beautiful in the world. Add to that the
connection to the American military, and there's a lot to like about South
Japan as a cruise destination.
8. Transatlantic Liner
Although it is not necessarily
a cruise, there are still transatlantic
ocean liners operating with passenger service from New York to France,
England or Germany. This isn't always the all-inclusive experience that you
might think of for a cruise, but there are usually tons of amenities. Think of
it more as a hybrid vacation — you can either spend the entire time on the
cruise or make your own itinerary once you get to your destination country.
Make Your Own Dream Vacation
If you're feeling adventurous,
look into getting multiple cruise tickets. That way you can travel in style and
get off the boat to spend some extended time in a place that interests you.
Then, hop on the next cruise back home — or even around the world.