Autumn is upon us, and as the air grows crisp and the landscapes begin to evolve, there’s no need to halt your travels. In fact, there are plenty of incredible locations you can enjoy across the globe with a luxury cruise, some even more beautiful for visiting them in these colder months. Vicky Chapman reviews some destination highlights to consider as we welcome a new season.
No autumnal destination inspiration would be complete without a mention of Japan. Whilst renowned for its infamous cherry blossom season, the destination is nothing short of breathtaking during the cooler season, boasting an array of foliage, from fiery reds and golden ginkgo to vivid maple leaves across temples, gardens and mountains. The country is home to an endless number of beautiful temples, from Kyoto to Nara and Mount Takao, which glow amongst the seasonal colours. The pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds make it a far more suitable time for sightseeing, hiking and exploring many of Japan’s spectacular cities like Osaka and Tokyo. You can also enjoy the outdoor hot springs whilst surrounded by the colourful scenery in Hakone, Kusatsu or the Japanese Alps.
Famed for its vibrant foliage, this beloved area of North America is simply stunning during the Autumn season. With foggy mornings and cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect hiking weather, where you can marvel at the sea of red, orange and golden leaves flooding acres of land. If you’d like to extend your journey pre- or post-cruise, it’s highly recommended to drive one of the region’s iconic routes, like the Kancamagus Highway, Route 100 and Mohawk Trail. Embrace the festive spirit with apple picking, harvest festivals and pumpkin patches. Explore historic sites and discover the many restored 18th and 19th Century buildings.
A destination that is a common highlight of any frequent cruiser, Alaska is an astonishing part of the world, offering unrivalled views of its towering mountain ranges, pristine waters and fascinating wildlife. Aside from the alpine tundra and boreal forests exploding in deep reds, golds and oranges, the autumnal months are also a particularly active time for resident wildlife. Witness bears and moose in their natural habitats and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of whale-watching, so you can see these incredible creatures up close. Autumn also means clear, darker nights, which offers explorers a prime opportunity to witness the northern lights while they’re cruising.
While beautiful, the Mediterranean summer often involves rocketing temperatures and intensive crowds. Sailing along this part of the world during the autumn allows you to enjoy the iconic landmarks and sites in comfortable weather without the business. Enjoy less queueing and more exploring, whether you’re sailing around the west from Barcelona or Lisbon, or around the east from Athens or Rome (Civitavecchia). The autumnal season is also the perfect time for river cruising, where you’ll still enjoy lots of sunlight but a more serene, peaceful voyage. Explore the heartland of Europe, from the Rhine or the Seine in France or meandering through Vienna and Budapest down the Danube.
If you’re interested in booking a last-minute cruise for this Autumn, or perhaps booking ahead, call our luxury cruise concierge today and let us secure your next dream cruise!
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