Explore the Pacific Ocean and cruise the Panama Canal
Wednesday, 17, Mar 2010 12:00
If your idea of a perfect holiday is relaxing while your every need is taken care of then you should try and find yourself some cruise deals.
Comfortable and luxurious ships will carry you to your destination in style, while providing everything you could want during your journey.
From a host of restaurants and bars to sports facilities, swimming pools and spas, there truly is something for everyone on a cruise holiday.
When you couple the unique accommodation and transport with exotic surroundings, you have the perfect recipe for a great holiday.
One route which travels through culture and history will take you along the Pacific coast of South America and through the Panama Canal to the Caribbean.
Sample the delights of the Pacific Ocean
If you book with cruise lines that travel through the world's largest expanse of ocean then you are sure to stop off at some interesting places along the way.
Some cruises begin in Chile, allowing travellers to explore the rich history of this South American nation.
Popular stops include the port of Valparaiso in Chile, which is the country's biggest seaport and one of the most important in the region, as well as Callao in Peru.
For travellers, Valparaiso's main attractions lie in the historic downtown area, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The town is bustling with markets, stores and restaurants and features stunning colonial architecture that is sure to delight any visitor.
Meanwhile, Callao offers both historical and natural attractions. Its sand beaches are popular with locals and visitors alike, while many of the islands a short distance off the coast are havens for wildlife such as sea lions.
If you want to delve into Peru's colonial past then a trip to the Fortress of Real Felipe is a good option. One of the largest fortifications to be constructed by the Spanish, it now houses the Army Museum which offers tourists an insight into the country's military history.
The Panama Canal
Travelling along the Panama Canal is sure to be the highlight of any trip with Norwegian Cruise Line in this region.
Running for approximately 80 km, the canal links the Pacific with the Atlantic Ocean and is flanked by everything from ports and towns to rainforests along its banks.
Holidaymakers will find lots of attractions to keep them occupied, both in Panama City itself and the surrounding area.
Some of the most spectacular man-made structures aside from the canal itself are the bridges that span the waterway.
The two major crossings are the Bridge of the Americas, which stands at roughly 354 ft in height at Balboa on the Pacific approach to the canal and the Centennial Bridge, at the Gaillard Cut near the Pedro Miguel Locks.
Sit on deck and watch the stunning scenery scroll by as you make your way towards the Atlantic and one of the final stop off points in the clear waters of the Caribbean.