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Northern Lights – December to January

One of the splendours of the winter night’s sky, the Northern Lights is within easy reach of all cruise travellers. Leading travel operators, such as Thomas Cook, offer cheap cruises to help make people’s dreams come true of catching this dramatic visual display – where “Mother Nature” takes centre stage in a stunning polar-scape.

Where and when

The Aurora Borealis, also know as the Northern Lights, are best observed from countries that surround the Arctic Circle. Norway is one of the most popular spots to see this spectacular example of nature at work.

This year NASA has predicted that the multi coloured display will be the best for over 50 years and the display will be visible from September 2012 right through to January 2013 – making it the perfect option for those looking for a winter break.

December and January are great times to go, as the weather is drier and there is usually more snow – ensuring your evenings are atmospheric.

How

One of the easiest methods of travelling to see this visual feast is to book a trip with Norwegian Jade, which is one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s most popular ships. You can combine the pleasure of a trip to the Northern Lights with the chance to enjoy the Hollywood-style glamour of its art-deco champagne bar.

Norwegian Cruise Line also take passengers to Alaska where there will be an excellent opportunity to catch sight of the multi-coloured display in the sky. On this journey passengers will be able spot native wildlife and stop off at Glacier Bay, which is a United Nations World Heritage Site.

Hurtigruten, who specialise in cruises to the Arctic Circle, also give holidaymakers the chance to glimpse the luminous- green light display from various ports including Tromso, in Northern Norway - the capital of the Arctic.

Different

However those who wish to shake off the cold of the Northern Hemisphere might wish to sail on Celebrity Eclipse to the Caribbean, and enjoy the many amenities this ship has to offer. The casino will provide travellers with the chance to have a thrill and increase their wallet whilst cocktails are sensational in the Martini Bar.

The natural world can always offer something fascinating to suit the most jaded of palettes and as well as the cruises to the Northern extremes of the planet, travellers can also visit the southernmost reaches of the world. 

There are very many cruise deals that vary from the ancient ruins at Cusco in Mexico to the stunning scenery of and natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador. 

Whether it’s just standing in awe at the beauty of the natural world or spending time enjoying all the on-board entertainment, a cruise is one of the most civilised methods of admiring the beauty of the planet.