Who doesn't dream of one day taking a trip around the world? Practically everybody! With a planet filled with so much glorious wonder, most people long for faraway places they usually see in magazines or on television. Considering two-thirds of the earth's surface is water, there simply isn't any better way to accomplish this "one day" dream than by cruise ship. If you plan to travel in regal style, the Queen Mary 2 is the way to go.
Since 1922, Cunard cruise line has been sailing the world via channels, passages and open seas. So much more than a cruise ship, the Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth 2 are legendary ocean liners designed for service to royalty, heads of state, celebrities and the wealthy. Calling on ports others won't even consider, Cunard allows you to explore to your heart's content.
Crossroads of Civilization
Crossing the Gulf of Oman, you'll spill out into the Arabian Sea and then the Red Sea. Navigating the Suez Canal en route to Alexandria and Cairo, Egypt is an exciting adventure in and of itself. Founded by Alexander the Great and deemed the "Pearl of the Mediterranean," Alexandria possesses a more modern feel than Cairo or Giza. The setting for one of the greatest love affairs of all time - that between Cleopatra and Mark Antony - Alexandria is also home to Pharos' lighthouse, formerly one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Cruising the Mediterranean Sea takes you to world-famous ports including Athens, Greece and Rome, Italy before heading up the Strait of Gibraltar to catch a glimpse of the renowned Rock. A jaunt across the Atlantic Ocean delivers you to Le Havre, France (within close proximity to Paris and Normandy) before arriving at your final destination: Southampton, England.
Dynasties of the Orient
If exotic ports are more to your liking, then a tour of the Pacific Ocean and East and South China Sea may be in order. After exploring Sydney, Australia, embark on a journey that takes you across the Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea to New Guinea. An unspoiled tropical paradise, New Guinea is home to several active volcanoes, many of which you can tour. Its rugged landscape is a contrast of lush, green mountain ranges set against calm, blue waters. With an amazing array of wildlife, New Guinea is an adventurer's dream.
With ports including Tokyo, Japan; Shanghai, China; Hong Kong; and Bangkok, Thailand, your exotic tour of ancient, mystical cities on the Asian continent will be one you won't ever forget.
While onboard the Queen Mary 2 or Queen Elizabeth 2, you'll find white-glove service at every turn, reminiscent of the golden era of ocean travel. With exhilarating activities for the entire family and cuisine truly fit for crowned heads, you'll simply be as awe-struck by the vessel itself as the destinations she lays at your feet.
By: Roy Witman