By I’ve been home for over a week and have had time to reflect a bit more on the trip. I enjoyed Alaska. I enjoyed the cruise. I would probably go to Alaska again and probably would consider Regent Seven Seas Cruises again. The ship was impeccable – really top of the line. The flight from Atlanta is so long that I’d recommend staying longer than just a week. I know many people combine the cruise with a land option that trains up to Denali. I think that’s a good idea! O perhaps I would stay a week in Vancouver as there’s lots to explore in and around Vancouver. I wouldn’t travel again on July 4th week. Why? In general the Atlanta airport is a nightmare that week. While I found the airport wasn’t too bad, the issue was the cruise. Many of the guests were multi-generational families (as in grandparents paid for kids and grandkids to go to Alaska). I’m happy for them, but when you travel like that (en masse), you are less likely to mingle with others. I’d like to think that going on a cruise at a different time of year would offer more opportunities to meet people, as there would be more smaller groups or singles. Regent did a really good job of taking care of the solo travelers. I’m not sure how other cruise companies handle. I do think more and more people are in my boat (solo traveling). I was a little surprised at the age range (most if not all were older than me). My plans to meet Mr. Right were foiled again.
And for those of you who might appreciate some guidance on what to pack, I’ve included my list. The ship offered free laundry which I did take advantage of. I think Regent Seven Seas Explorer is a little more dressy in the evening than other cruise lines, so bear that in mind. Alaska in general has a more casual vibe.
What I packed:
- Black maxi dress
- Black dress
- Black leggings
- Black pants
- Black flare leggings (did not wear)
- Blue dress shirt
- Blue linen shirt
- Striped long sleeve shirt
- Thermal turtleneck
- 2 long sleeve shirts
- 2 short sleeve t-shirts
- 2 sweaters (probably only needed one)
- 2 hoodies
- 1 Columbia vest (wore a lot)
- 1 nightgown
- Thermal sleeveless T-shirt
- 2 scarves
- Socks – 9 (way too many socks! I only used 2-3 pairs and had them washed)
- Undies – 7
- 2 regular bras, 2 jog bras
- 1 cami
- 1 swim suit (did not wear)
- 1 silk skirt (did not wear)
- 2 pr trainers (one was water resistant – both were used)
- 1 pr sandals
- 2 pr flats
Other important items: sleep mask (the sun is out in the summer for most of the night), sunglasses, sun protection, bug spray, dramamine or the Rx patches (if you get motion sickness – I only used the patch one time)
