im planning a suprise Alaskan holiday for my parents. but i need help!!?
Its both my parents 50th birthdays next year, and since its a bit of a milestone i want to do something special for them. They have both always wanted to go to alaska, I thought about just booking them in for a fortnight in a nice hotel, but they’ll want to explore – especially my dad -. I also thought about booking a camper van, but i cant imagine 2 weeks stuck in a camper would be that appealing – especially for my mum – . Maybe a cruise for a week and a camper for the other week? but where should i get the cruise from, and where will it drop off…blah blah blah, basically i think i need to know where are the best places to go, what should they see, this is a once in a lifetime trip and i want to make it as special as possible but also try to keep it with in a reasonable budget. and if anyone can recommend any good cruise companies/ hotels / camper van or car rental companies, i would really appreciate your help.
thanks
Just some thoughts. I don;t know much about the cruises.
But on land, there are some very very nice packages that use the Alaska Railroad system and include Denali National Park. The train ride is spectacular. My mom booked one of the tourist cars with large glassed in viewing areas, and could not stop talking about how nice it was.
Denali park has some guided activities, local attractions and should appeal to both your parents.
The trains go to Seward as well, and there are excellent lodges and sports fishing there, guided and well set up. Also the Seavey Iditaride Kennel is Seward is a must see.
You might also check out elder hostel travel in the state, they have programs designed to be fun and informative, and get great reviews.
here are some links you can start exploring 
I am sure whatever you pick they will love this present!
Alaska Railroad
http://www.alaskarailroad.com/Default.aspx?alias=www.alaskarailroad.com/travel
Great dogsled ride, accessible for all ages, excellent kennel
http://ididaride.com/
General park info:
http://www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/index.htm
additional resources for lodging:
http://www.denalichamber.com/
Elder Hostel in Alaska
http://www.exploritas.org/programs/state.asp?whatState=AK
Also this might be good general information:
http://www.travelalaska.com/
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