It’s All About The Place

This month, the phones have gone crazy with calls for cruises. The amazing spell of tropical temperatures that we have all been enjoying over the past few weeks seems to have motivated more people into thinking about their holidays overseas than motivating them to stay in the UK.

Of course, sunny British summer days are wonderful and usually not that frequent, but taking your annual breaks here does tend to come at a cost. On average, we spend much more on accommodation, restaurants, attractions and entertainment in a week here than abroad, especially if the climate is inclement. If I take leave and stay home, I end up trying to catch up on all the jobs that need to be done in the house and garden and rarely relax. When the sun is shining at home, I, like so many, am generally stuck in the office working and not able to enjoy it so holidays are very important.

One question I am asked a lot is which is my favourite ship. The answer is, I don’t have a favourite. I choose my cruises by their itineraries. I like as many ports of call as possible, with a mixture of new and exciting ones to explore for the first time, combined with some old favourites which are relaxing to wander around. Despite a very busy lifestyle whilst home with a hectic mix of a full-time job, voluntary charity work, a family and both running and dance clubs, I like active breaks and love to walk for miles. Last month on Celebrity Constellation around Croatia, Italy and the Greek islands, I averaged nine miles a day just enjoying meandering cobbled lanes and glorious seafronts, combined of course with quaint tavernas and a glass or two of the local tipple.

Everyone is different in what they want from their well-earned break. Maybe you prefer to while away your days on a lounger or in a spa?