As we head into our Aussie summer, many of us are planning our 2013 holiday escape. After 14 years at sea I am often asked “where is my favourite world destination?” It’s a difficult
question to answer as there are too many wonderful places. The Mediterranean, East and
South Africa, Vietnam…but I have no hesitation in listing Alaska as one of my favourite places.
When travelling to the USA to visit Mickey, consider heading up to Alaska. Yes, it can be
misty and cold at times, but when the sun shines bright here, you’d be hard pressed to find a
more spectacular destination. Sea Eagles fly above you, brown bears fish for salmon, and
hopefully you’ll see humpbacks, orcas and sea otters. It also offers some of the best
adventure options of any cruising area, so why do people wait till their older to head up here?
Juneau is Alaska’s state capital, accessible by land and sea only as there’s no road access.
Your cruise ship docks right in the centre of town and once you step off the gangway you’ll be
able to shop for all things Alaskan. Some gaudy as you’d expect, but also native art that is
beguilingly beautiful, and cafes, bars and restaurants. It’s all easy, level walking, so even if
you have a few mobility challenges, you’ll be able to explore Juneau downtown.
Sightseeing options are numerous. Independently, you can take the Glacier Bus to
Mendenhall Glacier and Visitors Centre, the city’s drive-up glacier, or hop on the Mount
Roberts Tramway to be whisked high above Juneau for great views, an insight into native
culture and return on foot via the many rainforest trails where you might encounter a brown
bear. There are reminders of Juneau’s gold rush origins, and frontier experiences like the Red
Dog Saloon with its sawdust floor.
Unforgettable highlights include river rafting, salmon hatchery tours, hiking, biking and zipline
adventures, whale watching and panning for gold, however, for a once in a lifetime
experience, splurge and take one of the helicopter glacier tours, where you can step out on the ice,
or for real adventure don a pair of crampons and go ice-climbing. Alaska – truly incredible!
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: May – September
Don’t Miss: Glacier helicopter flightseeing
Tour or Not: At least half-day tour, half-day on your own in town
Sightseeing: Helicopter abd glacier dog sledding
Food: Alaskan halibut and of course salmon
Language: English
Shopping: Everywhere you turn
Cash or Card: Credit Card or USD
By Roger Condon, cruise sales manager, Discover the World Marketing – with 15 years at sea.
