Hi Reader,

When most people think about cruising, they picture palm trees, beaches, and tropical drinks.

Alaska is completely different.

And that's exactly why we loved it.

I've been fortunate enough to cruise Alaska twice. The first trip was with Gary on Princess, and last year I returned with my mom on Carnival to celebrate her birthday.

Despite being on different cruise lines and with different travel companions, both trips left me wanting to go back.

Instead of turquoise water and beach days, Alaska offers towering mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, forests, and wildlife around nearly every corner.

One thing that surprised us on our first trip was how relaxed everything felt. Alaska cruises are generally much more casual than Caribbean sailings. Many passengers spend time on deck watching the scenery glide by rather than rushing from activity to activity.

The scenery is simply incredible.

Snow-capped mountains rise straight from the water. Waterfalls appear around every bend. Glaciers, lakes, streams, and forests seem endless.

The wildlife alone makes the trip worthwhile.

We've seen whales, seals, bald eagles, and countless other animals during our visits. Some days it feels like you're watching a nature documentary from your balcony.

One thing I especially loved about returning with my mom was seeing Alaska through her eyes. Watching her experience the glaciers, wildlife, and mountain scenery made the trip even more memorable.

The excursions have been memorable, too.

Over our two cruises, we've enjoyed:

• Whale watching tours
• Glacier excursions
• Helicopter adventures
• Bike tours
• The famous White Pass Railway
• A trip into Canada from Skagway
• Exploring ports by local transportation and sightseeing tours

And then there's the food.

Fresh salmon, halibut, crab, and other wild-caught seafood are everywhere. If you enjoy seafood, Alaska may become one of your favorite cruise destinations.

One thing many first-time visitors don't realize is that Alaska is actually a rainforest.

That means rain is common, even during summer.

Temperatures can climb into the 70s or even 80s on a beautiful day, but mornings, evenings, and glacier viewing days can easily be in the 40s and 50s. Add some rain and wind, and it can feel much cooler.

Layers are your best friend.

That's one lesson we learned quickly.

We're already talking about when we can return. Alaska is one of those destinations that keeps calling you back.

If Alaska is on your bucket list, I'd encourage you to move it closer to the top.

Check out my latest Alaska Cruise blog on Seattle Cruise Port: 11 Things to Do Before or After Your Alaska Cruise.

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Travel Tip of the Week

What First-Time Alaska Cruisers Forget to Pack

Most people remember jackets and rain gear.

What many forget is that they'll need the right bags for both travel days and shore excursions.

A larger travel backpack is great for flights, embarkation day, and carrying everything you'll need while traveling to and from Alaska.

But once you're in port, a lightweight daypack often becomes the better choice.

Gary and I usually share a small foldable daypack during shore excursions. It's lightweight, easy to carry, and perfect for storing:

• Rain jackets
• Extra layers
• Water bottles
• Cameras
• Binoculars
• Souvenirs

On glacier tours, whale watches, train rides, and sightseeing excursions, you'll be glad to have a comfortable day bag that doesn't weigh you down.

I've also put together a complete Alaska packing guide to help you prepare for your trip.

Read it here:

​Alaska Cruise Packing List for First-Time Visitors​

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Travel Product of the Week

Our Two Favorite Alaska Cruise Backpacks

Over the years, we've discovered that the best setup is actually two backpacks that serve different purposes.

Our Travel Backpack

This is the larger backpack I use as my personal item when flying.

I've traveled with it for the last three years, and it has been on countless trips. It holds everything I need for travel days, and I have the teal version.

I actually carried this backpack on both of my Alaska cruises. After seeing how much I used it over the years, I bought Gary the navy blue version for Christmas. He now travels with it regularly and loves it.

Perfect for:

• Flights
• Cruise embarkation days
• Carrying electronics
• Travel documents
• Extra clothing
• Long sightseeing days

​Coofay Travel Backpack Carry-on available on Amazon​

Our Foldable Day Backpack

Once we're in port, this is usually the backpack we grab.

It folds into a small pouch when not in use, takes up almost no room in your luggage, and is perfect for Alaska shore excursions.

We typically share one during:

• Whale watching tours
• Glacier excursions
• Train rides
• Walking tours
• National park visits

I carry the light purple version, and it's one of those inexpensive travel items that comes with us on almost every trip.

Check it out here:

​10L/15L Hiking Backpack Lightweight Packable​

Until next time,

Melodie
​Travel Must Do's​

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