Australia
For those who want to try a more adventurous holiday in 2011, but do not want to leave their home comforts behind, a cruise could provide the ideal solution…. according to Cruise Critic a cruise is a great way to explore many of the hot destinations for 2011, including those in Asia, South America and the Middle East.
A cruise can offer a gentle introduction to unfamiliar countries and cultures, as well as providing a new twist on more familiar places. Attracted by the value of inclusive pricing and the opportunity to visit several destinations in one trip, British holidaymakers have embraced cruising, making it the fastest growing travel sector in the UK.
To help holidaymakers plan the perfect voyage, Cruise Critic has highlighted ten hot cruise destinations for 2011 and explains why they are ideal places to explore on a cruise:
Australia
Why cruise? Australia is a huge country and most of the popular tourist spots Down Under are hundreds of miles apart. However, you can avoid long coach tours, time-consuming drives and expensive internal flights, by sailing lazily along the East Coast, stopping at all the best tourist spots -- from the Great Barrier Reef to Sydney harbour.
Vietnam/Cambodia
Why cruise? Hot destinations for 2011, Vietnam and Cambodia offer beautiful scenery and vibrant cultures but making your own travel arrangements to tour these exotic destinations can be a daunting task. Taking a cruise along the Mekong River is an excellent way to enjoy an organized tour through these two countries, without forgoing too many home comforts.
Middle East
Why cruise? For a first trip to the Middle East, a cruise offers a gentle introduction to the region and an easy way to explore this part of the world. A cruise lets you experience the sights, cultures and traditions from a number of countries during your trip, while also allowing you to retreat to more familiar surroundings each evening onboard ship.
Alaska
Why cruise? Unless you have the constitution of a husky dog, a cruise is simply the easiest and most relaxing way to enjoy this beautiful, but uncompromising region. The views from the water are spectacular and often the best way to see wildlife and reach the coastal towns and villages. Optional shore excursions allow you to be as adventurous, or sedate, as you like.
South America
Why cruise? For those with a sense for adventure, a South American cruise is the perfect way to explore ports in Chile, Argentina, Brazil and beyond. Travellers get a taste of the rugged, natural beauty, vibrant cities and wonderful cultures which South America has to offer, all while enjoying the comfort, safety and ease of traveling by ship.
Northern Europe
Why cruise? Viewing the Norwegian Fjords or Russia’s St. Petersburg by ship is not only a great way to enjoy the landscape, but as these countries are notoriously expensive the inclusive pricing offered by cruise lines -- which includes meals, accommodation and transportation -- can make the trip much more affordable.
Western Mediterranean
Why cruise? The ever popular Med is a top choice for Brits looking for a value-packed holiday in the sun. A cruise, however, not only offers a new way to experience this region while enjoying similar inclusive deals to many resorts, but takes you along the coast to enjoy a new town, and new beaches, every day.
British Isles
Why cruise? Traffic and over-priced accommodation are reason enough, but more importantly you get an entirely new perspective on your own country, as well as the opportunity to visit out-of-the-way places such as the Orkney Islands. Also, you are likely to share a British Isles cruise with Americans, South Africans, Australians and Europeans who will delight in many aspects of British culture and make you appreciate your homeland more than ever.
Europe’s Rivers
Why cruise? If you never took a year out to travel through Europe as a student, or you did and would like to repeat the experience -- only in more comfort and with a bigger budget this time -- then you might like this option. River cruising has brushed up its image, added some wonderful new ships and more active excursions, which means that it now offers excellent value compared to going it alone in the Eurozone. It’s a great option for visiting a handful of countries in a single trip.
Caribbean
Why cruise? If there’s one thing better than spending a day on a beautiful Caribbean island, it’s spending the next day (and the day after that) on another. It’s expensive and time-consuming to fly between islands, so take a Caribbean cruise and let someone else worry about the travel arrangements while you relax by the pool until you reach your next port of call.
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