Unleash the Adventure: Discovering Pet-Friendly Havens Around the Globe
As pet lovers, we understand the special bond we share with our furry, feathered, or scaly companions. They’re not just pets – they’re family. And when it comes to traveling, we want to ensure our beloved pals can join in on the excitement. That’s why the team at The Pet Rescue has scoured the globe to uncover the top destinations that cater to the needs of our four-legged, winged, or finned friends.
Sail the High Seas with Your Paws
Embarking on a luxurious cruise might seem like a far-fetched dream when you have pets in tow, but Cunard Cruises is here to make your nautical fantasies a reality. Their flagship vessel, the Queen Mary II, offers a dedicated pet-friendly area that will have your furry first mate wagging their tail with delight.
Onboard Oasis for Your Pets
Each voyage of the Queen Mary II features a separate pet management area, complete with pet runs, play spaces, and a full-time pet manager to ensure your companions are well-cared for during the 7-day journey from New York to Southampton, UK. Cats even have their own dedicated kitty zone, ensuring their comfort and safety. And the best part? You can visit your pets during the day, bonding over the ever-changing ocean vistas.
Booking Your Cruise Pawfection
Reserving your spot on this luxurious cruise is a breeze. The pet department handles all the details, from booking your cabin to securing the perfect kennels for your pets. Just be sure to plan ahead, as these coveted pet-friendly spots are limited to only 15 kennels per voyage and tend to book up a year in advance.
But the paw-some experience doesn’t come cheap. Kennel costs range from $800 to $1,000 for dogs, and cats require two upper kennels at $1,600 each. Additionally, there are size and breed restrictions, so be sure to check the specific policies before setting sail.
“If you don’t want your pets to travel in an airplane, then this is literally the best thing since sliced bread!” – Nina, The Wheeling It
Soar in Style with Your Sidekick
For those with a penchant for the finer things in life and a bottomless travel budget, chartering a private jet might be the way to go. Picture this: you, your friends, and your beloved pets all traveling in the lap of luxury, enjoying the ultimate in-flight experience.
Private Jet Pawty
Several companies, such as PrivateFly and ElJet, offer private jet charter services, allowing you to curate your travel experience from start to finish. The best part? Pets fly for free!
Of course, this level of exclusivity comes at a premium price. The cheapest private jet charter we found for a flight from La Guardia, New York to Heathrow, UK was a staggering $60,000 for the entire plane. But if you’ve got the means and the wanderlust, this could be the ultimate pet-friendly adventure.
“If we had that kind of fun money lying around, we would do this in a heartbeat.” – Nina, The Wheeling It
Soaring with Your Sidekick: The Airline Option
For those of us with more modest travel budgets, the traditional airline route may be the way to go. While it may not have the same level of luxury as a private jet or the open-water charm of a cruise, flying with your pets can be a seamless experience with a little preparation.
In-Cabin Companions
The first and most desirable option is to have your pet travel with you in the cabin. This is limited to small dogs and cats that can fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you. Each airline has its own specific rules and restrictions, so be sure to do your research and book a flexible ticket to accommodate any last-minute changes.
Cargo Capers
For our larger-than-life companions, the cargo hold is the only other option. While the thought of sending our furry friends into the unknown depths of the plane’s underbelly may seem daunting, it’s actually a relatively safe method of travel, with around 12 million pets making the journey each year with a low mortality rate of just 0.05 per 10,000 animals transported.
To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, it’s crucial to properly prepare your pet by crate-training them and choosing airlines with a proven track record of safe pet transportation. It’s also a good idea to work with a pet relocation specialist to navigate the logistics and minimize the risk of complications.
Arrival Accommodations
Regardless of how your pets travel, the final hurdle is making them comfortable upon arrival. Be sure to pack an extra checked bag with essentials like food, a collapsible litter box, and water/food bowls to have on hand as soon as you reach your destination. This will help your pets settle in and feel at home, even in a foreign land.
“Once we get there, we’ll stay overnight in a pet-friendly hotel near the airport and then we’ll rent a car and drive the rest of the way to our final destination. It’ll be a few looong very, very, very stressful days, but then it’ll be done.” – Nina, The Wheeling It
Unleash the Wanderlust: Pet-Friendly Destinations Await
Now that we’ve explored the various pet transport options, let’s dive into the top destinations that welcome our furry, feathered, and scaly friends with open arms (and paws).
Explore the City of Lights with Your Paw-tners
Paris, the City of Love, is also a city that adores its four-legged residents. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the charming cobblestone streets of Montmartre, your pets can join you in discovering the romantic wonders of the French capital.
Parisian Paw-radise
Stroll through the picturesque Jardin du Luxembourg, where dogs can roam leash-free and make new canine companions. Indulge in a café au lait at a pet-friendly sidewalk café, or visit the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, where your pup can accompany you (on a leash, of course).
For feline friends, the quaint neighborhood of Montmartre is a must-visit, with its charming alleyways and artist-filled squares. Keep an eye out for the legendary “Chat Noir” (Black Cat) statues, a nod to the area’s rich artistic heritage.
The Pet Rescue recommends booking a stay at one of the city’s many pet-friendly hotels, such as the elegant Hôtel Le Burgundy or the chic Hôtel Bowmann, where your furry friends will receive the royal treatment.
Wander the Winding Canals of Amsterdam with Your Companions
The Netherlands’ capital, Amsterdam, is a delightful destination for pet owners, offering a wealth of opportunities to explore the city with your beloved sidekicks.
Canine Canalside Capers
Stroll along the picturesque canals, stopping to admire the charming gabled houses and quirky boutiques that line the waterways. Many of the city’s iconic boat tours welcome well-behaved pups, allowing you to cruise the canals together.
For feline fans, the city’s cozy cafes and bookstores provide the perfect setting for your kitty to bask in the warm sun and people-watch from the comfort of your lap.
The Pet Rescue recommends staying at the centrally located Hotel Pulitzer, a grand 17th-century building that offers a selection of pet-friendly rooms and even has its own in-house “Director of Pet Relations” to ensure your furry friends feel right at home.
Unleash Your Pack in the Scottish Highlands
Venture north to the rugged and breathtaking landscapes of Scotland, where you and your four-legged friends can explore endless hiking trails, serene lochs, and historic castles.
Canine Capers in the Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are a true paradise for active dogs and their owners. Hike through the rolling hills and dense forests of Cairngorms National Park, where your pup can roam leash-free and bask in the fresh, crisp air.
For feline fans, the charming town of Inverness offers a wealth of cozy pubs and cafes that welcome your furry companions, allowing you to enjoy a spot of tea while your kitty curls up by your side.
The Pet Rescue recommends booking a stay at the pet-friendly Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness, where you can unwind in the hotel’s tranquil gardens or indulge in a dram of locally distilled whisky.
Roam the Rugged Landscapes of Iceland with Your Pack
Prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking natural wonders of Iceland, where your pets can join you on an unforgettable adventure through volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and serene glacial lagoons.
Paws-itively Pawsome Adventures
Hike the stunning trails of Thingvellir National Park, where your canine companions can run freely and explore the otherworldly terrain. Marvel at the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders, with your furry friends by your side.
For feline friends, the cozy city of Reykjavik offers a wealth of pet-friendly cafes and charming boutiques, where your kitty can bask in the warmth of the Icelandic sun.
The Pet Rescue recommends staying at the pet-friendly Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Natura, where you and your companions can unwind after a day of adventure.
Unleash the Joy of Exploration with Your Furry, Feathered, or Scaly Sidekicks
As pet owners, we know that our companions aren’t just animals – they’re family. And when it comes to exploring the world, we want to ensure they can join us in the adventure.
From the high seas to the skies, and from the streets of Paris to the rugged landscapes of Iceland, the destinations featured in this article offer a wealth of pet-friendly experiences that will have your four-legged, winged, or finned friends wagging, purring, or swimming with delight.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to unleash the adventure and embark on a journey of exploration with your beloved sidekicks. The world is waiting, and your pets are ready to join the pack.
