Alaska or Mediterranean?

[carrielouhoo]

For me, this was probably one of the most amazing parts of the vacation. There's something for everyone, I suppose!

We will definitely do whale watching. And, it will definitely be with Rum Runners based in the comments in your trip report and the thoughts you've shared in other threads!

 

[tlprice]

I don't have a lot of interest in going to Alaska. I went when I was 16 and wasn't very impressed. I also grew up in the Pacific Northwest, so it's not a huge difference. I AM a history buff so I chose the Med. My daughter will be 11. I specifically chose the Barcelona to Rome trip so we would have more time in both of those cities. I think the ports can be super intense or not depending on what you choose to do. For almost all of our ports I am only planning half day excursions and we will do a balance of historical sites and fun activities that my child would like. I am making sure she is in on the planning so that it is a mixture of what we will both enjoy.

 

[carrielouhoo]

I don't have a lot of interest in going to Alaska. I went when I was 16 and wasn't very impressed. I also grew up in the Pacific Northwest, so it's not a huge difference. I AM a history buff so I chose the Med. My daughter will be 11. I specifically chose the Barcelona to Rome trip so we would have more time in both of those cities. I think the ports can be super intense or not depending on what you choose to do. For almost all of our ports I am only planning half day excursions and we will do a balance of historical sites and fun activities that my child would like. I am making sure she is in on the planning so that it is a mixture of what we will both enjoy.

I agree on incorporating them into the planning! On either itinerary, we hope to incorporate some shorter and longer days and a mix of historical/educational/fun activities! Thanks for your thoughts!

 

[TestingH2O]

We will definitely do whale watching. And, it will definitely be with Rum Runners based in the comments in your trip report and the thoughts you've shared in other threads!

Excellent choice!

We had an amazing experience with them.

 

[Yokelridesagain]

Another vote for Alaska.

A cruise is the only feasible way to "do" Alaska with younger elementary kids--they're not going to tolerate long hikes through national parks, etc

On the other hand, actually going to Rome, Florence, Venice, Barcelona with young kids is very feasible and enjoyable if you take several days and don't try to do too much. If you have an interest in the history and the art of Europe, a cruise excursion day is just not enough to experience all those ports have to offer.

 

[MickeyEarrings]

I was inclined to say do the Med first, because Alaska is in the US and you know you can always travel there safely. One never knows when things will heat up overseas and a travel advisory will make your dream cruise more challenging and perhaps scary.