With growing demand for flights to Europe – as well as rising fuel
costs and new fees and surcharges – airfares to Europe are currently on the
high side. The Summer Olympics that will take place in London are driving up
summer airfares not only for that city, but for other European capitals, like
Brussels and Amsterdam, that are reasonably close to London via rail.
However, don’t let intimidating airfares rule out a European cruise
this summer. There are excellent values available on a variety of European
cruise itineraries – in fact, savings on your cruise fare might completely
offset a higher airfare.
And, Europe offers a terrific range of cruise possibilities. There are the
sunny ports along the Mediterranean coast, as well as islands like Sicily and
Corsica to explore. Summer is prime time to sail the North and Baltic Seas,
visiting the capitals of Scandinavia and perhaps St. Petersburg, the jewel of
Russia. Istanbul and other ports around the Black Sea are beginning to emerge
as cruise destinations. And, some of the major rivers of Europe, like the Rhine
and the Danube, offer a different kind of cruise experience that includes
sailing right into the historic hearts of inland cities and towns.
A cruise of the Greek Isles – rich with abundant natural beauty,
intriguing historical sites, fabulous beaches and reliably sunny weather – is a
very special experience. The country is experiencing an extended financial
crisis, and this summer may see strikes, delayed or cancelled openings of
seasonal hotels and restaurants, and cuts in transportation routes or the hours
that attractions are open. However, if you are traveling via cruise ship, these
disruptions should have very little, if any, effect on your vacation.
If you’re still worried about the price of airfare to Europe, there’s
another option: consider delaying your trip until late summer or even early
fall. When summer – always the busiest season for European travel – begins to
wane, airfares are likely to come down. In addition, if you book now, you’ll be
making your reservations far enough in advance to get better prices, as well as
your top choice of flights. To decide on your European cruise itinerary, talk
with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.
