Woman who has been on 80 cruises reveals her favorite destinations in the world to visit

A woman who has been on an impressive 80 cruise trips has shared her favourite destinations ahead of her 80th birthday.

Ann Leadley, 79, from Whitby in the UK, would frequent cruise vacations with her husband Jim - but after he sadly died, she decided to keep travelling and see the world on solo trips.

“When Jim passed away, I was heartbroken," she said. "He was my soulmate, and for as long as I can remember, we’d done everything together, especially travelling.

"For a while, I thought that part of my life was over, because the idea of going anywhere without him was too painful. But in time I realised Jim would have wanted me to keep travelling, to carry on seeing the world instead of staying at home.”

Now, after embarking on some 80 cruise ship trips, Ann has shared her favourite place to visit.

Ann has been on dozens of cruises (David Sacks/Getty)

"Of all the places I have been to via cruising, Hawaii has to be my favourite," she said to travel agents American Holidays.

"The sheer beauty of the islands took my breath away, everyone I met was so welcoming, and the food was absolutely spot on."

And it's not just Hawaii either.

"I've also got a soft spot for the Caribbean, where I first travelled solo and felt completely at ease," she said.

Ann also shared some of her top tips for people who want to set out on a cruise by themselves, and how to get the most out of their holiday.

First on the list is not to be shy about dining with other people.

Ann said: "Shared tables are a wonderful way to meet people, and I've had some of my best conversations over dinner. Friends have even made it off the cruise ship, and I regularly visit them following my travels."

Ann shared some of her top tips for cruising (David C Tomlinson/Getty)

She also recommends going out on the excursions as well, saying: "They're a safe, easy way to see the sights, and you'll usually end up making friends along the way. It also takes the stress out of travelling alone and making a schedule for the day."

For Ann, selecting the right cabin for the trip is also a big must, and she prefers to have one with an ocean view.

She said: "I prefer one with a window, so I can see the sea first thing in the morning, it makes all the difference when you're travelling alone."

Ann also recommends taking a good book with you as well, saying: "There's plenty of quiet time on board, and it's nice to have something to enjoy when you just want your own company"

A physical book also avoids any extra Wi-Fi charges as well! Though the same can't be said for luggage weight if you're an avid reader...

Finally, Ann recommends being open to chatting, saying: "Even a smile on deck or a few words in passing can lead to a new friendship onboard."

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