Cruise Holidays - Attheta Travel

I am proud to be certified by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) as an Elite Cruise Counselor. The Cruise Counselor Certification Program is CLIA's most comprehensive training which requires agents to successfully complete a number of compulsory training courses and exams, attend cruise conferences, and conduct ship inspections. Anita Thompson, Attheta Travel, dba Cruise Holidays.

Monday, September 24, 2018

Underrated Cruise Ports

Some cruise ports are better known than others, and when looking at itineraries, we might focus on favorite destinations like Cozumel, Rome, or Copenhagen. However, lesser-known ports deserve your attention, too; often, they are so much more than just a convenient stop between bigger and more famous ports. Here are a few examples.

Kralendijk, Bonaire. Among the ABC Islands of Southern Caribbean, Aruba and Curacao get the most attention, but Bonaire is just as lovely. It’s also one of the best snorkel and dive locations in the Caribbean, with easy access to surrounding reefs. Watch for colorful flamingos that live in a preserve (one of only four areas in the world where flamingos breed), or feed some carrots to the gentle donkeys at the Donkey Sanctuary.

Progreso, Mexico. This small port city 30 miles from the Yucatan capital of Merida is often seen only as a starting point for excursions to Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza or Uxmal; but, Progreso itself offers wonderful experiences. You’ll love the white sand beaches, and when you’ve had enough sun, you can stroll the amazing 4.3-mile wharf or visit El Chorchito, a beautiful ecological preserve.

Livorno, Italy. It’s the starting point for excursions to Florence or Pisa, but it’s a shame to miss the charms of the lovely city just beyond the busy docks. There are ancient city walls and the remains of impressive fortresses, a network of canals known as Little Venice, and a waterfront promenade near restaurants that serve fresh pasta and seafood.

Kotor, Montenegro. This small town at the edge of the Adriatic Sea is incredibly scenic. The Gulf of Kotor lies slightly inland, and your ship will travel through gorgeous mountains and fjords to reach the town. There, you can explore the medieval fortifications, cobblestone streets, a cathedral that dates from 1166, and more.

Kirkenes, Norway. In far, far northeastern Norway, close to the borders of Finland and Russia, Kirkenes delivers unparalleled views of the Northern Lights. The lights are at their glowing peak between October and March, which is also when you can enjoy an overnight at the Kirkenes Snowhotel (which is exactly what its name implies). You can learn about some WWII history here, as well as the culture of the Sami people.

Talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert, about itineraries that include one of these (or dozens of other) underrated ports, and enjoy your discovery!

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