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July 31, 2007
Alaskan Cruise Honeymoon
It was 55F in the middle of July and snow never rested more that a few thousand feet away. We sat huddled at the edge of our bed, bundled in our comfy robes, and peered through the full length glass door from our warm stateroom. The remnants of breakfast in bed sat at the table next to the flat-panel TV which relentlessly pimped the "incredible deals" that awaited us at the next port of call or showed us maps of our journey. Not more than 300 steps away, a widely varied buffet lunch was being prepared for us should we manage to pull ourselves together and make it out the door. Life was good.
We're back from our Alaskan cruise honeymoon, and I must admit that there is something to this whole honeymoon concept. Being pampered amongst the glaciers and pristine wilderness that is southeast Alaska was a wonderful way to spend a week. More food than could be eaten, more activities than could be participated in, enough excursions to fill the entire summer, and the option to just sleep it all off was a fantastic luxury that I'm glad I didn't miss.
There's so much to say but I want to mention a few things for anyone considering such a journey. Some of this may not apply to all cruise lines; we were on the Holland America Line ms Zaandam--a wonderful ship.
1. Do not let anyone dissuade you from packing long johns. It's cold, cold, cold. I wish I had brought my Capilene underwear.
2. Do not take the layering suggestion for granted. Did I mention it's cold?
3. Take several pairs of "all occasions" shoes, A.K.A. sneakers/trainers.
4. Take a windbreaker, along with several sweaters or jackets. It can get chilly.
5. Wal-Mart isn't "just two blocks away" in SE Alaska, so bring your amenities with you.
6. The shops around the ports are tourist traps. You'll still need to go in to get your omiyage, but the more prepared you are for "touristy", the easier it is to see through the kitsch.
7. Do not think about the calorie count. Eat. A lot. You can't help it; food is everywhere, so enjoy every ounce. The food was great and there's a good variety.
8. Afternoon tea/coffee is not to be missed.
9. Even if you're not a show person, go to the evening shows. They're not that long and it's amazing to see what they do on a relatively small stage. There's a fair variety as well.
10. Do not be discouraged by the number of things to do. You won't be able to do everything.
11. It's cold even in summer. The only time I wasn't bundled up was when I was tucked in bed with the A/C off.
12. Enjoy the beautiful scenery. This is what they mean when they say to stop and smell the roses.
Go. It's worth it. Glacier Bay is amazing. The train ride in Skagway is fun.
Seriously. Go.
Posted at July 31, 2007 10:40 AM | Life and Work
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