There currently are several openings for experienced speakers who can address a variety of topics on the Caribbean and the Panama Canal. Must be able to commit to an onboard contract lasting three to four months. Compensation dependent on qualifications. I am NOT the one hiring, however I would be happy to forward your resume or CV to the agency in the UK that is. Good luck!

There is so much written about the great state of Alaska it’s hard to narrow down a reading list; but for the first time visitor arriving by cruise ship I find the following books provide basic information to stimulate your interest and appreciation.

From the ship:

“Cruiser Friendly Onboard Guide to Alaska’s Inside Passage,” by Terry Breen. Complitaion of my seventeen years of onboard experience answering what YOU want to know about Alaska as we sail the Inside Passage.

“Alaska Cruise Companion,” by Joe Upton. In depth look at the Inside Passage through the eyes of an experienced fisherman; Joe’s cruise map is excellent!

Alaska History:

“Alaska,” by James Michener. Great read and, as always, well researched.

“Klondike – The Last Great Gold Rush 1896-1898,” by Pierre Berton. Mr. Berton has written many books on the history of Alaska – all worth picking up!

“The Alaska Almanac,” by Mr. Whitekeys. This fact-filled, fun book is a wonderful whacky resource for understanding Alaska. Written in the true spirit of the state!

“Arctic National Wildlife Refuge: Seasons of the Land,” by Subhanken Banerjee. Timely book as we face the dilemma of high gas prices!

Natural History;

“Travels in Alaska,” by John Muir. Can’t get a better feeling for the wilderness than through the eyes of the father of US conservation efforts.

“Roadside Geology of Alaska,” by Cathy Connor.� For those interested in the make-up of the landscape this is your book.

“The Oceanic Society Field Guide to Orcas” and “Humpback whales,” by Hannah Bernard and Michele Morris. When you are in port be sure to pick up these two books for insights into the world of Alaska’s cetaceans.

“Exploring Alaska’s Birds” by Richard Emanuel and George Matz. So many birds, so little time – this book will help!

“Alaska’s Mammals; A Guide to Selected Species,” by Dave Smith

Native Alaska:

“The Native Peoples of Alaska,” by David Langdon.� Great introduction to Alaska’s four main Native cultural groups.

“The Tlingit History,” by George Thornton Emmons.

“Tlingit: Their Art and Culture,” by David Hancock.

“Looking at Indian Art of the Northwest Coast,” by Hillary Stewart. Primer for those interested in the exquisite art of the Northwest Coast people.

“Northwest Coast Art: Analysis of Form,” by Bill Holm. Great book to help you decipher the Native art of the Inside Passage.

First of all – right out of the gate before you start to pack that evening dress or tuxedo – check with your travel agent or cruise line to see if your ship has a Dress Code for your Alaskan cruise! In the spirit of The Last Frontier, many cruise lines have relaxed dress codes in Alaska. If that pertains to you, evening clothes traditionally warranted on a cruise ship will not be necessary. Instead, the look of “Country Club Casual” will be the norm after 6pm in all public areas; which usually means sport coats for men (no tie – yippee!) and sweater and slacks or a skirt for ladies. Please note; jeans and t-shirts after 6pm are still considered a no-no by many ships.

Now, with the fashion end of clothing aside, what should be in your suitcase?� I say:

1. Good walking shoes. You don’t need hiking boots (unless you intend to do some serious hiking – there are places where that is possible in case you are interested.)� Bring comfortable shoes that will allow for wet surfaces (rainy decks and city sidewalks) and long periods of standing (lots to see from the rails of the ship!). Be sure to wear your new cruise shoes before coming onboard to break them in – nothing worse than blisters from new shoes and your cruise!
2. Layered clothing. The old saying in Alaska is if you don’t like the weather wait a few minutes and it will change. Be prepared. It doesn’t have to be fancy but a seasoned traveler to Alaska always has extra socks, a light water-proof/wind-proof jacket or poncho, a hat and a sweater or sweatshirt. I always wear my light-weight down jacket; it is water-proof and warm when it is cold; cool when it is warm. � Standing out on deck watching whales or glaciers – it can get nippy! But remember, it does get warm in Alaska during the summer as well; so layers help you regulate your temperature as well as withstand the elements.
3. Insect repellant? I have to say, I am a mosquito magnet – but unless I am going hiking in deep woods, I do not bring insect repellant with me. That said, if you are going off on trails – do take along some DEET . Mosquitos in Southeast are heaviest in June. Make sure you spray your clothes as well as exposed skin – and don’t forget the top of your head and ears!
4. Binoculars. You will great satisfaction from your cruise by having a good pair of binoculars. They do not need to be super-duper, just good enough for you to see what you want to see. If you are not experienced using binoculars – PRACTICE! Nothing is worse than missing a great moment because you can’t figure out how to use the binoculars (and believe me I have seen it!).
5. Camera. There will be many “Kodak moments” on your Alaska cruise and I am sure you will want to capture them all from eagles in the trees to sunsets at midnight! My only request is once in a while put the camera down; take a minute to record the moment for yourself, in your heart. Breathe. Memories are made of this.

With higher fuel prices, the travel industry fears that the summer of 2008 will be one in which travel plans are curtailed or postponed. The American Automobile Association has cited changing patterns in US driving habits due to higher gas prices. Yesterday all the major US air carriers added a $20 fuel surcharge to their fares. � Yours truly had to cancel a long-awaited holiday to France due to the falling dollar and rising cost of accommodations and food prices in Europe. So, what to do? Stay home?

Well it seems there still are bargains to be found and they are package tours and cruising. Like package tours, cruises are booked and paid for in advance. Many offer all inclusive programs and all advertised prices are guaranteed. Even if the cost of food or fuel goes up; you as the traveler will not be affected. Like the airlines many cruise lines have added fuel surcharges to their fares but those monies are collected at the time of booking. That means no surprises when you get onboard. So, you can relax and enjoy knowing your budget is in tact.