The new year brings many different travel options for Hampton Roads residents.
2010 marked something of a comeback for the cruise travel industry that had been reeling from the recession. The comeback is likely to continue in 2011, as various anniversaries and events are scheduled around the world for 2011. Now is a great time to look for a Hampton Roads cruise vacation that takes you to one of these events. London, for example, is sure to be packed with millions of visitors from around the world who come to celebrate Prince William’s marriage to Kate Middleton. Alaska is gaining a lot of attention thanks to the TLC television series “Sarah Palin’s Alaska.” Less happy is towards the end of the year when New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, DC specifically commemorate the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
Cruise travel has always been associated with retirees and honeymooners looking to spend time together. But the cruise industry has truly reinvented itself to include great cruise packages for every group, from individual cruise vacations, all-inclusive group cruise vacations, and even family cruise vacations. In fact, there are several Williamsburg travel experts who specialize exclusively in Hampton Roads cruise vacations. You might choose to go to exotic places like Alaska, Mexico, or the Mediterranean, or perhaps try a European river cruise on the Rhine, Seine, or Danube. There are many, many beautiful river cruises to choose from. If you like to get into the Christmas spirit, you might be interested in river cruises heading to various Christmas markets in Austria and Germany.
There is so much going on for international travel enthusiasts that cruise companies are not far behind! With the Disney Dream cruise ship beginning January 26, and the “Allure of the Seas” adding amenities like a 3-D theater and the first Romero Britto store at sea, your cruising options abound.
Budget-conscious cruise travelers should plan ahead. Travel agencies often offer discounts to customers who book in advance. So if you’ve planned a European cruise vacation around Hampton Roads, be sure to book early. Booking through a travel agent instead of booking direct gives you an advantage, as travel agents often have information such as price changes, exclusive offers that help you make an informed decision. You can of course book online, but be sure to compare costs with an experienced travel agent before settling on the ideal package.
