Cruising can be one of the best ways to see the world, so we asked men’s lifestyle and travel expert Joe Miragliotta from Joe’s Daily to share some of his favorite places to visit via a cruise ship.
With the exception of certain age groups and tropical routes, I’d imagine that cruising isn’t usually the first thing that comes to people’s minds when they think about traveling. Personally, I think this is such a shame. Of course, I’m an advocate for visiting an area for a while and taking in what it really means to be there. However, I’m also of the opinion that there’s a lot of world to see and it’s important to take in a much as you can. Cruising is the absolute best way to experience as many places as possible and figure out where to go back to, all while only having to unpack once.
But, where do you start? Great question! According to NASA, the earth has about 372,000 miles (620,000 kilometers) of ocean coastline. Soooo, you have a few options. While I can’t honestly say I’ve ever been somewhere and not enjoyed it, there are definitely some destinations that are better than others. My suggestion would be to start with one of the amazing places listed below, and take it from there!
1. Marseille, France
Old Port Marseille, France. Credit: @JoesDaily
You’d absolutely be safe to swap this out with just about anywhere in Provence, but the Old Port at Marseille is a great stop for the area if you’re cruising. Located off the Mediterranean Sea, the region is known for magnificent landscapes, lavender, olive groves, and wines (especially rosé). Just be forewarned, every time my wife visits here, she ends up looking at real estate for the next two weeks. I’m just saying, be prepared to grapple with some life decisions after you leave.
2. Juneau, Alaska
If you’re even remotely the outdoorsy type, or can even slightly appreciate spectacular views, Juneau is a distinct must. The list of things to do here is probably one of the most diverse you can find. Taking in amazing scenery, whale-watching, gold mining, dog sledding, kayaking, and hiking through temperate rainforest and glaciers are just some of the activities that this port has to offer.
3. Lombok, Indonesia
Located just next to the better-known Bali, Lombok is said to resemble what its sister island looked like before it was more developed. As you would expect, it’s completely beautiful. If you’re looking to get your beach fix in, Lombok has you covered. However, if you’re trying for a little bit more, it also has some noteworthy craft villages, temples, and water palaces worth checking out.
4. Santorini, Greece
Yes, I’m sure you’re already aware of how great Santorini is. But something just wouldn’t be right with the world (or at least this list) if I didn’t include it. Not only is this island completely gorgeous, but it has something for everyone to do. There are winery tours for oenophiles; the volcano for geology buffs — and conspiracy theorists; lovers of history can check out the archeological site and museum; and for people who like to relax, the hot springs or just enjoying a café.
5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Speaking of gorgeous — okay, all of these places are gorgeous, but just let me do the segue here — Reykjavik certainly does not disappoint. From quaint fishing villages and national parks to rainbowed waterfalls and geothermic fields, this island country has plenty of opportunity for you to conjure up those calming+curious vibes. Strangely, I haven’t made my way out to Iceland yet, but based on the rave reviews everyone comes back with (I seriously still haven’t heard ONE bad thing), I’m more than confident you’d enjoy yourself too.
6. Saint Kitts/Nevis
Saint Kitts and Nevis were actually the first places I ever visited in the West Indies and I can’t tell you how much I loved them. I went in expecting to sit on the beach all day, but it turned out there was much more to do. Don’t get me wrong, I still had my time in the sun. However, instead of lounging, it was spent on things like sailing, historic double-decker train rides, and watching local artisans work. I honestly think it was the most active relaxing time I’ve ever had.
7. Kyoto, Japan
Okay, so you do have to drive a little inland for this one, but I think this has been on my wife’s bucket list for as long as I’ve known her. She has a healthy obsession with both history and gardens and Kyoto is amazing for both. From the looks of them though, I have to say I’m with her. Everything I’ve seen looks spectacular, so we should all probably make it a stop for our next trip. (See you there?)
8. Richard’s Bay, South Africa
Richard’s Bay is another great one for nature — although more animal-oriented — and history. First off, the area has a few parks and game reserves, including South Africa’s oldest. Here you’ll be able to see everything from lions and leopards to rhinos and elephants. As for history, KwaZulu-Natal is the province in South Africa where Richard’s Bay is located, as well as the birthplace to Shaka the Great. To miss out on their cultural centers and Shakaland (a replica Zulu settlement originally made for the film Shaka Zulu) would be a big mistake.
9. Amsterdam, Netherlands
The first time I went, my first three thoughts about Amsterdam were these: “It’s much busier than I expected”; “They really weren’t kidding about the bikes”; and “I absolutely love this place.” The canals, museums, flowers, art, history, shopping, cheese, row houses, and windmills are just the tip of the iceberg of what you have to check out if you’re lucky enough to visit. Just make sure to invest in a good pair of walking shoes before you go — you’re going to need them. Read also Travelocity’s Top 10 Things to Do in Amsterdam activity guide for more inspiration.
Joe Miragliotta
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