DISCOVER 3 SHORE EXCURSIONS SURE TO GIVE YOU GOOSEBUMPS
6/3/2024 BY GUEST CONTRIBUTOR
Cruise lines certainly present plenty to get excited about, but the journey is simply half the fun. The destination is at the heart of why we travel; getting to set foot somewhere far from home and soak up the soul of a new place is what travel is all about. Nothing simplifies this goal quite like a shore excursion — a rigorously researched, flawlessly executed outing where all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. And no one has cultivated a catalogue of thrilling shore excursions quite like Distinctive Voyages. Here are three potential shore excursions from the premium cruise program that capture both the ease, and excitement, of shore excursions.
HIGHLIGHTS OF SORRENTO & NAPLES, ITALY, WITH LUNCH
Start your adventure with a leisurely walking tour of Sorrento, with plenty of time to browse and shop for whatever catches your eye. Then, head to Gragnano to visit its fabled pasta factory — whose very name has become synonymous with some of the best pasta in Italy. Once your tour of the factory is complete, the real fun begins: You’ll savor the chance to taste the different types of pasta, served with a glass of wine. After lunch, you’ll head toward Naples, admiring the serene scenery of Italy along the way. Once you arrive in Naples, you’ll tour its famed monuments, such as the Piazza Plebiscito, Galleria Umberto II and more.
EXPLORE UBUD, INDONESIA
Your adventure to the many fascinating highlights of Ubud begins at the John Hardy Jewelry factory, where you’ll partake in a quick introductory session on the jewelry-making process. Then, you’ll visit the Ubud Monkey Forest for the chance to meet — and feed — the curious monkeys who call it home. Afterward you’ll depart for lunch at the Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah, hidden among the lush hills of Bali’s highlands. Finally, you’ll visit the Elephant Cave (also known as Goa Gajah) and admire its intricately carved entrance dating back to the 11th century.
BLUE MOUNTAINS & WILDLIFE PARK, AUSTRALIA
The sprawling wilderness of Australia is downright legendary; embark on a day-long discovery of its splendor with this excursion. Your day begins with a stop at Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, where you’ll wander through the bush for the chance to observe and admire over 2,000 of Australia’s unique native animals. Then, you’ll continue on to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains and gaze out in wonder at the spectacular views provided by the Jamison Valley at Lincoln’s Rock. Follow your guide on a bushwalk through the temperate rainforest to discover majestic waterfalls and the fabled Three Sisters rock formation. Finish your adventure with a stop in the village of Leura and peruse its charming and delightful businesses, like Ye Olde Candy Store, the Delectable Fudge Shop, the Treasured Teapot Museum, the art gallery and the craft shops before capping off the day with a delicious dinner.
An ideal way to enjoy any of the above is by booking a cruise through your trusted Travel Leaders travel agent. In fact, it’s the only way: All the above are exclusive shore events, available for no additional fee via the Distinctive Voyages program. They’re specifically designed to help you connect with the local culture and history in a personal way. Plus, not only will you have plenty of time to experience the sights and flavors listed above, but you’ll also enjoy the other luxe trappings of the Distinctive Voyages program — a dedicated host for your cruise plus a private welcome reception to kick off your journey in luxury. Add on the fact that I know all the leading names in travel well, so I can help you choose, plan and book your cruise vacation to perfection.
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