Viking Cruises

14 | Viking Explorer Society News VALLETTA, MALTA The Island of Malta has been shaped by countless civilisations. But it was the Knights of St. John who built Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This baroque wonder is one of Europe's first cities planned and constructed from scratch, cut from local honey-coloured limestone. The humble facades of its churches and palaces hide extravagant interiors of marble, tapestries and paintings. A stroll around the massive walls and bastions affords a striking bird's-eye view of the cityscape and the spectacular Grand Harbour. What can you do here? Witness the natural and cultural beauty of Malta, from sweeping bays to fishing villages, on a panoramic excursion. Take a drive to the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, where colourful traditional Maltese luzzu fishing boats bob with the currents in the small harbour. Continue to Żurrieq, one of Malta's oldest towns, for a dramatic view of the Blue Grotto, a series of yawning sea caverns, and the tiny, flat-top rocky island of Filfla; a rest stop for many migrating birds as they journey between Africa and Europe. Continue into the rural reaches of the island toward the medieval fortified city of Mdina, Malta's former capital. From here your route takes you toward the coast again, passing the resort area of Xemxija Bay and St. Paul's Bay, where the patron saint of the island is said to have been shipwrecked in 60 AD. When is the best time to visit? Experience Valetta in late winter and early spring when the temperatures are mild and the crowds are fewer. Alternatively the summer months are perfect if you would like to enjoy a dip in the nearby ocean. KETCHIKAN, ALASKA Ketchikan, often referred to as Alaska's "First City" due to its position at the southernmost entrance of the famed Inside Passage, is also known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" thanks to its thriving fishing industry. This vibrant city embraces its rich Tlingit heritage and boasts the world's most extensive collection of standing totem poles. Nearby, you can explore the breathtaking Tongass National Forest and the stunning Misty Fjords National Monument. What can you do here? At Potlatch Totem Park and Saxman Native Village, you can gain exclusive access to the ancient native craft of totem pole carving. You can also hear the Tlingit legends behind their designs and experience a traditional performance. You may decide to venture into the Tongass National Forest to marvel at the majestic 900 -metre-high glacier cliffs of Misty Fjords National Monument. Go black bear spotting in the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary at Herring Cove. Deadliest Catch enthusiasts will enjoy the crab-fishing vessel that highlights the popular Discovery Channel show. Meet Alaskan fishermen eager to share their tales of survival and see the fishing gear used to search for creatures in the depths of the Bering Sea. Learn the art of wild salmon fishing or catch tasty Dungeness crabs in the scenic Bostwick Inlet. When is the best time to visit? Visit from May to September when the weather is warmer and perfect for wildlife watching, fishing and wilderness exploration.

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