Guest Post: Top World Travel Adventures

Passionate traveler and Oceania Cruises guest Isabel G. shares some of her most memorable travel experiences, plus where she’s dreaming of next.

As a passionate traveler I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to see many parts of the world. Some places were harder to travel to than others and some cultures were more unique and surprising. Throughout the years, I’ve learned that one of my favorite ways to visit some of the farthest corners of the world is aboard a small ship – with Oceania Cruises.     

One of my most memorable cruises was from Dubai to Mumbai – I was greatly surprised by Oman and captivated by India. Muscat was absolutely gorgeous, and so refreshing after spending two days in glitzy Dubai. You see the mountain backdrop as soon as you sail in and you feel the unique atmosphere of the place as you visit different neighborhoods and experience Arabian hospitality. You can’t miss the stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and make sure you stop by the Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. Later, I was mesmerized by the colors and faces of India.

On many occasions, I found the people pensive and shy for the first brief moments but after just two minutes of conversation, they were inviting me to meet their families, into their homes and asking us endless questions.

I also have the best memories of my holiday voyage a few years ago from Bangkok to Hong Kong. I always recommend this voyage to all my friends. The weekend market in Bangkok, with endless alleyways full of stalls selling everything and anything, is so much fun. Getting a first-hand look at how people live in the Mekong Delta was fascinating and visiting the temples and neighborhoods of Hong Kong was exciting, but my favorite memory was exploring the caves and kayaking in Ha Long Bay. The landscape is unlike anywhere else in the world.

My last cruise in April was from Shanghai to Okinawa, in which I was able to finally fulfill my dream of walking on the Great Wall of China, visiting the Forbidden City, and eating authentic sushi in Kyoto with tea served by Geishas. A surprising treat was attending a Korean wedding while we were in Seoul. All the guests were wearing the traditional “Hanbok” Korean wedding dress with beautiful “Jeogori” – short jackets.

Even though I’m excited to explore, experience, and be surprised by each new port, I have to admit I love coming back on board to the comfort of my suite and my home away from home – Oceania Cruises. So where is my home away from home taking me next? On my list is South Africa, St. Petersburg and to circle South America. I’m just not sure which one will come first!