And, with the purist in mind, if you've grown tired of the same old, same old, cruisin climate, overwhelming, additive itinerary, perhaps an Alaskan cruise might be just what you need to balance your perspective and get your travelin spirit back to basics. Inhale deeply, the crisp clean air, and step aboard a Princess cruise ship, the pioneer cruise line of the region. For you're about to enter the premier northern bound excursion to Alaska, Voyage of the Glaciers.

But, first you'll visit a magical gateway to your journey, Vancouver, B.C. Sophisticated, contemporary, a province that can hold its own with the modern-day world, but never looks far from its Victorian era past. With elegant architecture, postmodern structures, diverse dining and shopping, you'll be well prepped for your trip.

Since there are no roads leading to Glacier Bay National Park, there's only one way to experience Alaska's icy fjords. As you stand on the balcony, the prime vantage- point, you'll want a camera or camcorder handy, as you come upon one awesome glacier after another. Next, you'll tour the capital of Alaska, Juneau, for a scenic tour of snow-capped mountains and untouched wilderness. Don't be surprised if a few furry or airborne residents come out to greet you. Mother Nature instilled in them manners, too. So, show some respect. Your final stop will be at College Fjord, pocketed in Prince William Sound, where you'll visit 16 magnificent blue glaciers and see up-close, whales, seals, Orcas, in there natural habitat. This is the real thing, no Sea-World here.

Although you've seen quite a bit of the region already, you're not done yet. Alaska is huge, 586,000 sq. miles and you've only seen the north coast. The southern bound excursion is quite different and not to be missed. At Ketchikan, the salmon capital of the world, you'll see the largest collection of totem poles belonging to the region's native ancestry. Then, you're off to Tracy Arm Fjord, and there you'll find another adventure with the monumental glaciers. But, on this cruise the pioneering spirit will prevail and lead you on a tour of Alaska's past. Follow the gold rush trail, step aboard the Yukon Route Railroad and join in the honky-tonk.

Please note on both trips, north, or south, at each port, there are lots of mini excursions to be experienced, including float-boats, seaplanes, helicopters, you name it. Considering the number of things to do, and the size of the region, it's impossible to devour Alaska, grizzly style, in one gulp. As your cruise line leaves the dock, you'll wave good-bye to this kingdom and all its inhabitants, and something will have changed. You'll look on your world in a new light and promise to return. You'll thank Mother Nature and realize all is well, just as she intended, pure and simple.