CAM Travel

November 26 and 27 for us 🛳⛴️🚢✈️🛫xx

😍😍

Sounds like a classic Juneau day - rain, whales, and shopping all in one hit 😄 Here’s your CAM Travel review:

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Juneau, Alaska: whales, glaciers + Red Dog chaos
Port stop: Alaska cruise 2026

Juneau was fabulous, even with the rain. First up was a whale watching tour and it didn’t disappoint. We saw humpbacks breaching and orcas too - proper Alaska magic. It was freezing though, so I spent more time inside where it was warm but still had great views. Paul braved the deck and caught them on the other side of the boat, so between us we saw the full show.

Back in town we did some shopping for Christmas tree ornaments - love picking up something for the tree from every port. Then a quick call into the Red Dog Saloon for the atmosphere, sawdust floors, and a bit of cowboy music.

We also saw Mendenhall Glacier. That blue ice against the grey sky was stunning, rain and all.

Overall: Juneau gave us wildlife, ice, and small-town charm in one afternoon. Pack layers + waterproofs and you’ll be fine. Wet, cold, and absolutely worth it.

THE RED DOG SALOON

Red Dog Saloon, Juneau: rowdy, historic, pure Alaska
Port stop: Alaska cruise 2026

If you want a proper Juneau pit stop, Red Dog Saloon delivers. Place was packed when we walked in - buzzing atmosphere, sawdust on the floor, dollar bills pinned everywhere.

We grabbed a Fuzzy Duck and it went down a treat. Real cowboy singer was on, guitar in hand, working the room like he owned the place 🤠. Made the whole spot feel like a movie set.

It’s touristy, yes, but in the best way. History, music, and a bit of chaos all rolled into one log cabin. Perfect for a drink and a laugh before heading back to the ship.

Overall: loud, fun, and totally Juneau. Don’t overthink it - just go, grab a drink, and have a good time x

ICY STRAIT POINT ALASKA

Icy Strait Point, Alaska: gondola views + heart-in-mouth zip ride
Port stop: Alaska cruise 2026

Icy Strait Point was one of those “Alaska in a nutshell” days. Weather started perfect - sun shining, so we took the free green gondola up to the seafront. The whale statue at the top is a great photo spot, and we just wandered, grabbed a drink in the sunshine, then walked back down to the docks.

Then the weather turned… cold and rainy just as we checked in for the zip rider. Classic Alaska! I’m not a fan of heights, so the gondola ride up was wow… and terrifying lol. It’s high.

Met some new friends we’d made on board at the check-in desk, and doing it together made all the difference. Scary at the start, but honestly awesome once you’re flying. I’d do it again - huge buzz.

Took the green gondola back down to the dock for the tender, and the payoff was spotting whales on the way back to the ship. Perfect end to a wild day.

Overall: Icy Strait Point gives you both sides of SE Alaska - calm, scenic walks and big adrenaline moments. If you don’t love heights, you can still enjoy the gondola + waterfront. If you’re brave, the zip is unforgettable.

✨ MSC Splendida | 7-Night Mediterranean Cruise ✨

📅 1st November 2026
✈️ Flights from Manchester to Barcelona with Jet2
Escape to the Mediterranean this November aboard the stunning MSC Splendida and discover some of the region's most beautiful destinations.

🌟 From ONLY £800 per person
💙 MSC Voyagers Club Members from just £722 per person
🛏️ Based on an Inside Cabin
⬆️ Cabin upgrades available right up to the luxurious Yacht Club

Included in your holiday:
✅ Return Jet2 flights from Manchester
✅ 7-night cruise aboard MSC Splendida
✅ Full Board Dining
✅ Tips & Gratuities Included
🍹 Upgrade to the Premium Drinks Package for just £196

Amazing Itinerary:
🇫🇷 Marseille, France
🇮🇹 Livorno, Italy (gateway to Florence & Pisa)
🏝️ Sardinia, Italy
🌋 Sicily, Italy
🇲🇹 Malta
🇪🇸 Barcelona, Spain

From the French Riviera and the Italian coast to the historic treasures of Sicily and Malta, this fantastic itinerary offers the perfect blend of culture, scenery, relaxation and adventure.

Subject to availability terms and conditions apply.

KETCHIKAN

Ketchikan, Alaska: wildlife, totems + small-town charm
Port stop: Alaska cruise 2026

Ketchikan was just wow. We hit the jackpot with the weather - clear and bright, which made everything pop.

First stop was the waterfall. Absolutely stunning, and the walk there turned into a mini safari. We spotted bald eagles, seals, blue jays, a deer, and even a black bear. Did not expect that much wildlife so close to town.

Creek Street was next - loved the wooden boardwalk over the creek and all the little shops. Bought a few Christmas totem pole decorations and they’re so cute. Great souvenir that actually means something.

We also went to the tribal village to see the totems up close. The carvings and stories behind them were fascinating, really gave you a sense of Tlingit culture.

Finished off with a pint in a local bar, just soaking it all in. Laid-back, friendly, and proper Alaskan.

Overall: Ketchikan delivered the full package - nature, culture, and charm in one afternoon. If your ship stops here, don’t just stay on board. Get off and explore.

🚨🌊 SAIL THE IBERIAN COAST WITH ME from £1099pp🌊🚨

😎 What an itinerary this is… from Southampton straight into the sunshine☀️ I liked it so much, I’ve already booked it for myself 😎

Set sail in style aboard the stunning MSC Virtuosa for a relaxing and unforgettable 9-night Iberian escape! ✨

📍 Departure: Southampton
📅 Date: 20th August 2026
🗺️ Itinerary includes:

Brest 🇫🇷
Lisbon 🇵🇹
Cádiz 🇪🇸
Málaga 🇪🇸
Gibraltar 🇬🇧

🌅 Sunsets, sea views & unforgettable destinations await!

💰 Full Board + Gratuities INCLUDED
🔥 From just £1,099 per person!

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle: style + service spot on
Stay: May 2026

What a gorgeous hotel. From the moment we checked in, the staff were lovely and genuinely friendly - that Kimpton hospitality really comes through.

The room itself was a highlight. Big bedroom with window seats that were perfect for coffee and people-watching, plus a large bathroom that was spotless. Room felt bright, fresh, and really well looked after. Decor was lovely right through the hotel too - lots of colour and character without being over the top.

We were Gold standard, which made the stay even smoother: express lift access saved time, we got €20 hotel credit to spend, and free entry to Smith Tower + the art museum was a brilliant perk. Definitely used both.

Location was great for exploring downtown and the waterfront. Overall it felt like a proper 4-star+ boutique stay - stylish rooms, attentive staff, and those thoughtful extras that make you feel looked after.

Would stay here again in a heartbeat if we’re back in Seattle.

If you find yourself in seattle and you love a Guinness visit Shawn O'Donnell's.
Great atmosphere 👌 x