The Arctic's The 'Hot' Destination

Travel experts and many major publications globally have declared Arctic destinations among the most desirable places to head for in 2014, and this summer season to regions north of the Arctic circle looks like being a bonanza year.

It is why we at World of Cruising have made it our Adventure Cruising focus for the forthcoming new edition (publishing Mar 15), with our adventure-cruise expert Steve Newman producing a round-up on the myriad of options.

Polar adventure experts Quark Expeditions are also predicting an exceptional year for Arctic tourism, with increased accessibility and tour options, plus greater awareness of polar destinations and activities all grabbing the attention of adventure-hungry travellers, and they have flagged up Iceland and Polar Bear safaris as the particularly 'hot' topics.

Iceland has made several top tourism destination lists recently, including The Guardian’s Where to Go in 2014 guide. The volcanic island has earned the nickname ‘Hollywood of the North’ thanks to several films shot there recently, including Oblivion, Prometheus, The Secret Life of Walter Misty and upcoming releases Interstellar and Noah.

Quark president Hans Lagerweij explained: “Iceland has always been recognized as a prime destination for Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) viewing, but our ‘Iceland Experience’ package has become an incredibly popular choice for an add-on among photographers and those in search of an authentic cultural experience.” said Lagerweij.

Climate change concerns and the melting of polar ice caps have also resulted in increased interest in Arctic wildlife. “Spitsbergen is one of the greatest places on earth to observe polar bears in their natural environment,” said Lagerweij. “Demand is great and we now offer three Spitsbergen expeditions of varying lengths, each with ample opportunity to observe and photograph walrus, polar bears, reindeer and other species indigenous to the increasingly popular Svalbard archipelago.”

Lagerweij also notes that options like kayaking are skyrocketing in popularity, as these activities allow tourists to explore Arctic coastlines and waterways in a guided, safe manner. He added: “2014 is shaping up to be a record year for travel in and around the Arctic Circle, as travellers and mainstream media are eager to explore and share their adventures at the top of the world. This year, we expect to welcome aboard more old friends and new passengers than ever before.”

More info: visit www.quarkexpeditions.com or call 0808 120 2333.

 

The new edition of World of Cruising is now out, and you can see the digital version online on our home page at www.worldofcruising.co.uk. To subscribe at our special offer rate for 2014, see this link.

 

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