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, January 14, 2019

Consider a Home Port Stay

If you’re looking forward to your next cruise and wondering if there’s a way to make the experience even better, there is. You’ll be traveling to the ship’s home port, so make the most of your vacation investment and spend an extra day or two there, either before or after the cruise. Here’s a quick overview of some popular U.S. home ports and what you can do there.

New York City needs no introduction as a great place for a pre- or post-cruise stay, but here’s another northeastern port to consider: Boston. From this charming city, you can sail to Bermuda, the Canadian Maritime Provinces (especially during fall color season), the Bahamas and the Caribbean. While in Boston, you can walk the city’s Freedom Trail to see 16 historic sites in just 2.5 miles. At one end is Boston Common, a lovely park next to the Boston Public Garden, where swan boats float around the pretty lagoon.

Miami is known for its Cuban flavor, but it is also a melting pot of Caribbean cultures. It’s a perfect place to begin a cruise to the Bahamas, the Caribbean – with some itineraries now including Cuba, Riviera Maya or the Panama Canal. From downtown Miami, head across Biscayne Bay to Miami Beach to see the Art Deco District and South Beach. Or, take a day trip to Everglades National Park to admire the sawgrass marshes and alligators.

In New Orleans, port officials estimate more than 60% of cruise passengers spend at least two days in the city. Everyone knows about the Bourbon Street party scene, but there’s so much more to see in the French Quarter which features fascinating historic architecture and world-renowned music venues. You can also view the stately homes of the Garden District. Cruises from New Orleans sail the Caribbean or Mexico’s Caribbean coast, traveling as far south as Roatan, Honduras.

Most cruises from Seattle visit Southeast Alaska, but a few sail the west coast or to Hawaii. This beautiful city’s must-sees including Pike Place Market, one of the country’s oldest and most varied farmers and seafood markets. On a clear day, visit the Space Needle for spectacular views of the city and – if you’re lucky – majestic Mount Rainier. Even on a cloudy day, you’ll love the colorful Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum at the foot of the Needle.

Ask Anita, your professional travel advisor, to help you arrange a pre- or post-cruise stay in the home port of your choice.

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