SEATTLE — The Galapagos Islands are lauded for their exceptional beauty and for being a "melting pot" of marine species. " It's a very unique place in the world where you find flora and fauna that doesn't exist anyplace else in the world," said Susana Romero, Director of Galapagos Sales & Communications for Celebrity Cruises, "A traveler goes there and it really changes the way that you view the world."
What makes the Galapagos really unique, says Romero, is the animals. "You've got species of animals that absolutely have no fear of humans. So, as a result, they allow you to get very up close and personal". And because the Galapagos are volcanic islands, each one is unique and different. You can visit white, black, and green sand beaches, "It all has to do with the geology of the area".
Celebrity Cruises is offering a 10-Night Galapagos Outer Loop Itinerary. The trip begins in Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, where you spend two days before flying to the island of Baltra, “The Gateway to the Galapagos Islands.” From there you are transferred to the Celebrity Flora, a new 100 passenger all-suite vessel, "It's the first purpose-built vessel for the destination," Romero told us, "All suites are very large, all with balconies, some of them featuring our infinite verandas where with a touch of a button the glass wall becomes your balcony."
The trip is all-inclusive, covering flights from Quito to the Galapagos, airfare transfers, luxury hotel, gratuities, and ship accommodations, "Everything from the moment that you land in Quito, Ecuador to the moment that you leave. You literally don't need to even bring any money with you. All of it is included."
This includes immersive tours offered every day with naturalist guides, and excursions for different interests and fitness levels, from long hikes to coastal exploration. The ship has wet suits, snorkeling equipment, and walking sticks, and more, readily available to support whatever adventure you decide on for the day.
The best time visit is, "Whenever you have time," says Romero. Because the islands are on the equator line, "You actually have very little fluctuation in weather. The air temperature changes, the water temperature changes, but the fluctuations are maybe five to ten degrees."
The trip is great for kids and families. In fact, Romero says people are, "Thinking more about traveling with our families instead of leaving money for our kids," preferring to share experiences together, and that she is seeing a lot more grandparents, parents, and children traveling together, making memories.
Visit AAA Washington or call 855-361-7667 to learn more or to book your own trip to the Galapagos Islands.
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