Does your family love…
- Breaching whales and soaring eagles
- Sled dogs and puppies
- Nature photography
- Outdoor adventure
- Hiking, biking and/or kayaking
- Have an interest in the sciences, especially environmental/marine/wildlife studies or geology?
If the answer is yes to any of the above, a gift that will be absolutely unforgettable is a trip to Alaska! This experience should be checked off your family’s summer travel bucket list before the kids head off to college or enter the workforce.
Amazing Alaska!
There are many options to consider when booking a trip to Alaska, and below are a few key considerations:
A cruise?
A cruise is the very best way to see the most of our 49th state as many areas are only accessible by plane or boat. Also, a cruise will offer something to make everyone happy – both onboard and on land. I learned this firsthand when we spent a week cruising the Inside Passage beginning in Seward (near Anchorage) and down the coastline ending in Vancouver, BC this July. Through our daily onshore excursions, we were able to experience each port of call in a meaningful way – from landing on a glacier in a helicopter to ziplining and hiking in the Tongass rainforest. It was a life-enhancing, incredibly memorable experience for all of us!
What type of ship?
Even if you’ve never been on a cruise, I guarantee there is a ship your family will love. There are many variables in ship size, activities, and amenities. For example, expedition ships have a capacity of approximately 100 guests and are all about being active and getting into secluded coves and harbors where the larger ships can’t go. Many of these smaller ships have a fleet of sea kayaks that allow you to get up close and personal to nature – including glaciers! Or you can choose a larger ship that offers unique experiences such as an on-board technology studio where you create your own photo albums and movies and learn to use the latest 3D effects. I can help you determine which ship is best for your family, and of course access amenities, inside information, and perks that only those of us in the travel industry can find.
Land options – before and after the cruise
Another decision point is if you’d like to add on a pre-cruise or post-cruise day or two to deepen your exploration. For example, Denali is north of Anchorage and an incredible add-on to cruises that start or end near Anchorage. Denali National Park is home to the largest mountain peak in North America, Mt. McKinley, and offers diverse, unforgettable activities ranging from white water rafting to visiting Husky Homestead for a meet and greet with Iditarod champion sled dogs and puppies in training.
When is the best time to book?
The time to book Alaska is now for the best Summer 2020 availability, and there are fantastic promotions available that I can offer you. Best of all, you will give your family a holiday gift that will absolutely surprise and delight your kiddos of all ages!
I think my family would go crazy for this trip! What’s the next step?
Inspired and excited? Email me for a complimentary consultation at susan@hiddengemtravelconsulting.com or simply reply to this email or text/call me at 203-247-3396. I’m excited to hear what you think your family will love about Alaska and share some amazing ideas with you.
Hidden Gem Tip: You will need at least 7 days for an Alaskan cruise (plus pre/post-travel days), and everyone will need a passport or passport card with an expiration date at least 6 months after you complete your travel. Why you ask? Because there are excursions that will take you into Canada. If you have questions about obtaining or renewing passports, I’m happy to help!
Warmly,
Susan
