Travel Insights

Ecuador in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The weather stays almost bone-dry in the Highlands whilst temperatures are at their highest averages of the year: time to get out and enjoy Ecuador's mountainous outdoors. Likewise in the Oriente the heavy rains are gone for a-while, so walking into the jungle to see the wildlife that lives in and on the trees becomes more of an option. Meanwhile it's bad weather and low season on the coast, although cool murky weather doesn't stop the Galapagos from getting high visitor numbers this month.

Explore the Andes & Pacific Coast in Ecuador - 14 Days

During this 14-day trip, you will not only explore the remarkably beautiful landscapes and the friendly Indigenous people of the Andean highlands, but there will also be plenty of beach time on the Pacific coast.

Ecuador in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It is exceptional weather for outdoor activities like trekking in the Highlands this month. Nor is it bad for trekking in the jungle, where jungle paths are beginning to get drier. The weather is cloudier, cooler and drier on the coast and out on the Galapagos Islands, although in all regions travelers are visiting in greater numbers as Ecuador segues into peak season.

Ecuador in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

High season finally reaches the Ecuadorian Highlands in June, along with cooler, drier, sunnier weather that's perfect for hiking. On the now overcast coast, it's whale-watching season, while cooler, clear weather on the Galapagos is preferred by divers, those who want to hike and boat tours. Over in the jungle, it's still very wet: a good month for seeing birds, monkeys, sloths and sometimes pink river dolphins.

Ecuador in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It's all change in Ecuador this month, as the coast becomes grayer and colder and the mountains brighter. It could be time to switch from sun-bathing to trekking. Meanwhile, high water levels in the Amazon mean more great white-water rafting and possibilities to explore wildlife-rich Amazon tributaries by canoe.

Ecuador in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It's the end of high season on the coast, but low season in the Highlands and jungle. Despite continued heavy rain in these latter two regions, the sun still does come out and crowds are low. The Highlands have wet weather activities from Unesco-listed colonial churches to superb handicrafts markets, and the jungle's rivers are good for exploring now that they have swollen. April sees a dramatic increase in interesting festivals across Ecuador, too.

Ecuador in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Easter-related events enliven Ecuador this month, especially welcome in the Highlands to take away from the wet, albeit warm, weather. The coast and the Galapagos remain the most appealing destinations in March due to their favorable weather (hot and sunny, for the most part). Meanwhile, in the jungle at Parque Nacional Yasuni, the rainfall increases rapidly: good for watching animals but bad for road travel, which starts to get very muddy.

Ecuador in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Carnaval season brings its share of partiers in to places across Ecuador this month. The coast remains the prime destination because of the lovely sunny weather, although the Galapagos warm season continues without the Christmas/New Year rush: a perfect time to visit the islands. Damp Highland weather encourages indoor activities or perhaps a session in the thermal baths, while for water-based activities like white-water rafting the Oriente is brilliant right now.

Ecuador in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It might be cool and wet when you arrive in Quito this month, but in Ecuador's varied climate several zones are still ideal for visiting. On the desert coastal strip, high season is beginning, with plenty of warmth and sun. Warm weather and gentler water makes for a good Galapagos voyage, while warm dry weather in the Amazon means great opportunities to venture into the depths of the jungle on foot.

Historic Turkey: Istanbul to Pamukkale - 9 Days

This nine-day tour starts in the Turkish capital of Istanbul, where you'll visit famous sites like the Blue Mosque by foot and boat. Then it's on to the country's inland regions, where you'll attend a wine tasting, visit an olive oil museum, discover battle locations from World War I, and explore the ruins of Ephesus, Troy, and Assos. Stroll through the ancient city of Pergamon before ending your trip in the historic town of Sirince and the baby-blue mineral waters of Pamukkale, where you'll stay at a spa hotel.

Explore Classic Turkey From Istanbul to Pamukkale - 9 Days

This 9-day tour will explore the diverse regions of Turkey, starting with a guided tour and a boat cruise in the vibrant city of Istanbul, discovering the famous Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman sites. Next head to the lunar-like terrain of Cappadocia where you can take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning valleys, visit a historical caravanserai, and explore the underground city of Kaymakli. After discovering Izmir and the ancient city of Ephesus, end your trip at a spa hotel near the famous white travertine terraces of Pamukkale.

Explore İstanbul & Cappadocia - 6 Days

In under a week, you can discover two of Turkey's most popular destinations—the bustling capital of Istanbul and the lunar-like valleys of Cappadocia. Explore the capital's Ottoman and Byzantine sites with guided walking tours, a trip to the Grand Bazaar, and a boat cruise along the Bosporus Strait. Then, fly to Cappadocia to admire its stunning valleys with a hot-air balloon ride over the "fairy chimneys" and visit to the UNESCO-listed Göreme Open-Air Museum and the underground city of Kaymaklı.

Hidden Gems of Mainland Greece - 12 Days

This dynamic road trip takes you through some of mainland Greece's best kept secrets, starting with a mythology tour of the Acropolis in Athens and a visit to the wineries in Nemea. Then head into the picturesque Peloponnese Region where you'll discover the ancient ruins in Sparta, the medicinal tales of Ascelpius, and the charms of historic Mani villages. Visit the birthplace of the Olympics in Olympia, hike to an alpine lake for a swim, and visit a family-operated olive farm to learn all about the production process and to taste different varieties.

Discover Ancient Greece & the Cyclades - 12 Days

Enjoy some of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades on this trip, starting on the mainland with mythology tours of the Acropolis, stargazing at constellations, and walks through the Temple of Delphi. Make your way to Tinos, the hidden gem of the Aegean, where you'll enjoy visits to marble villages, an afternoon on the beach, and an art workshop, followed by the glitz of Mykonos and the ancient ruins of Delos. End your trip with historical sites in Naxos, plus gorgeous views, beaches, and a wine tasting in Santorini.

Gastronomy and Culture of the Cyclades - 12 Days

Discover Greece's distinct culture and gastronomy, starting in Athens with a private tour of the Acropolis and a hands-on cooking class, followed by a transition to some of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades. Begin in Syros for food tours and explorations of medieval cities, then head to the hidden gem of Tinos for some of Greece's best cuisine, plus a visit to marble villages, an art workshop, and an afternoon swimming in the Aegean Sea. End your trip in Naxos where you'll discover ancient sites, historic streets, medieval monasteries, and, of course, delicious, locally-sourced cuisines, the pride of the Greek Islands.

Explore Liguria & Tuscany: Cinque Terre, Florence, Pisa & Val D'Orcia - 13 Days

Explore Mediterranean beaches, Renaissance capitals, and medieval hill towns on this delightful 13-day tour through the Italian regions of Liguria and Tuscany. Start your adventure on the west coast, where you'll discover the quaint villages, rugged shorelines, and breathtaking scenery of the Cinque Terre. Head inland to spend a day wandering through history in Pisa, before journeying west to soak up the Renaissance splendor of Florence. The final five days take you deep into the Tuscan countryside, where you'll stay at a rural agriturismo villa and immerse yourself in the culture and landscape of the Val d'Orcia—wine tasting and truffle hunting around picturesque hill towns.

Discover Greek Mythology and Archeology - 12 Days

Visit some of Greece's most important sites on this archeology and mythology tour, starting in the buzzy capital of Athens, atop the famous Acropolis Hill, and at the Temples of Delphi. Then head to the islands, stopping in Crete to explore Heraklion, Chania, and the Arkadi Monastery, followed by Mykonos and Santorini for prehistoric ruins. End your trip on the island of Delos where you'll walk the Terrace of Lions, then head back to Athens for one final day visiting the Temple of Poseidon and chasing the sunset along the Athenian Riviera.

Family Trip to Ancient Greece - 12 Days

This family-focused trip features all that Greece has to offer, but with a kid-friendly twist. Start in the bustling capital of Athens where you'll take an interactive language class and tour the incredible Acropolis, followed by an archeological tour and beach day in Nafplio. End the trip on the island of Crete, where you'll visit beaches, enjoy guided tours of historic sites, and become archeologists and artists in a simulated excavation and a mosaic-making class.

Luxury Tour of Athens and the Cyclades - 12 Days

This luxury tour of Greece starts in the bustling capital of Athens, discovering its incredible architecture and charming neighborhoods, followed by the exploration of the islands of Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini. Live the posh life as you relax at world-renowned beach clubs, enjoy sunset cruises, tour villages around the islands, and discover the taste of Greece with food tours and wine tastings. Score incredible views of the islands and the Aegean Sea with hikes, trips to hot springs, and sunsets from your own private pool.

Best of Costa Rica: Arenal, Monteverde & Manuel Antonio - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary showcases three of Costa Rica's most popular destinations: Arenal, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio. In Arenal, you'll paddleboard past the volcano on the lake, traverse tropical forests on suspension bridges, and soak in the region's hot springs. Monteverde offers the chance to spot monkeys, birds, and more of the country's wildlife as you zip-line through the Cloud Forest Reserve, while Manuel Antonio provides downtime at the beach, where days end with spectacular Pacific Coast sunsets.

Discover Food, Wine, and Culture in Greece - 12 Days

This tours focuses on the amazing food, wine, and culture provided by the vibrant country of Greece, highlighting bustling cities like Athens and Chania, as well as the islands of Santorini and Naxos. You'll enjoy numerous food and wine tours, allowing you to taste Greek cuisine, delicacies, pastries, and local wines and liquors, plus your own handmade dishes with a cooking class in Crete. Along the way, you'll visit an olive farm, a family-owned cheese shop, wineries, and bustling food markets, indulging your taste buds in some of the country's most beloved treats.

Best of Costa Rica: Arenal, Monteverde & Manuel Antonio - 8 Days

This 8-day trip is ideal for travelers looking to experience Costa Rica's highlights. Go for a dip in Arenal's hot springs and spot monkeys and other wildlife on hikes around the famous volcano. Continue to Monteverde, where you'll discover the remarkable flora and fauna of the cloud forest. Finally, spend a few days in Manuel Antonio National Park, kayaking through turquoise waters and relaxing on pristine white sand beaches.

Explore the Sites of Istanbul - 5 Days

Channeling the words of Napoleon, "If the Earth were a single state, Istanbul would be its capital", this tour explores the Ottoman and Byzantine sites of the city, including the Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern. View these grandiose structures by boat by cruising along the Bosphorus Strait and the Sea of Marmara, stopping on the island of Buyukada for a peek into the posh life of the 19th century. Peruse the Spice Market, explore the hip neighborhood of Beyoğlu, and climb the Galata Tower for amazing views of the city.

2 Weeks in Provence - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks is an ideal amount of time to spend in Provence: the region's highlights, from wineries to medieval villages to lavender fields, are best experienced at a relaxed pace. Go on a self-guided adventure, driving or riding an e-bike down country roads, or opt for an action-packed tour of the Provençal Alps that features hiking, boating, and kayaking in the mountains. Alternatively, visit Provence as part of a broader trip plan that includes Paris, Lyon, and Nice. The choice is yours—find out more about your options with these unique itinerary ideas.

10 Days in Provence - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Provence, you can take your time and enjoy the relaxed pace and beautiful scenery of one of France's most famous regions. Opt for a road trip with stops for hiking and a hot-air balloon ride, focus on wine country and the beach with a trip plan that includes a detour to the French Riviera, go on a luxury tour that features a private boat outing in Marseille, or explore Provence on an electric bike.

1 Week in Provence - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week to spend in Provence, you can tour the region's highlights, focus your time on a sub-region like Upper Provence, or opt for a trip that also includes a few days in the French Riviera or Paris. Take a road trip through wine country, pedal through lavender fields on a bike tour, cruise around Calanques National Park on a boat, hike and swim in gorges and rivers, take a cooking class at a country estate: there's so much to see and do. Learn more about your options with these unique itinerary ideas.

Croatia Walking Tour: Dalmatian Coast & Adriatic Islands - 8 Days

In eight days, explore Croatia's captivating Dalmatian coast and nearby Adriatic islands on foot, using Dubrovnik as a springboard into the surrounding area. Local-curated walking routes will take you past stone villages, family-run vineyards, dramatic coastal paths, and through thick forests of pine, oak, and Mediterranean scrub. Along the way, you'll spend three nights in the fortressed city of Dubrovnik, the perfect baroque and Renaissance contrast to all that untouched countryside.

Norway in Winter: Oslo, Bergen & Tromsø - 10 Days

Bundle up warm and immerse yourself in the beauty of a Norwegian winter with this exciting 10-day itinerary. Start in the country's south, where you'll spend two days soaking up the culture and cool of Oslo. After a day sailing through the breathtaking scenery of the fjords, head to the coast to explore the historic port city of Bergen without the summer crowds. Fly north to finish your adventure above the Arctic Circle, where you'll search for the northern lights, learn to dogsled, and discover the lively Arctic city of Tromsø.

Family Adventure in Japan: Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kyoto - 10 Days

Traveling together as a family is such a special experience, and this 10-day action-packed adventure is specifically designed with families in mind. From Kanto to Kansai, this trip takes you from Tokyo and its modern, bustling streets to Kyoto with its tight hold on tradition. It's the perfect way to take in all that Japan has to offer while having plenty of family fun.

Rajasthan Family Tour: Delhi, Jaipur, Taj Majal - 10 Days

Spend a week and a half exploring the state of Rajasthan with the family on this packed 10-day itinerary. You'll start and end your trip in lively Delhi, completing a circuit that sees you and the little ones immersing yourselves in the culture, history, and majestic landscapes. Let the kids roam the gleaming marble tiles of the Taj Mahal, explore the deserted red sandstone buildings and structures of Fatehpur Sikri, and count the number of bird species and exotic wildlife at Bharatpur's Keoladeo National Park.

Best of Central Europe: Czech Republic, Austria, Slovenia, & Croatia - 19 Days

This epic Central Europe itinerary highlights the top cities and attractions of the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia. From the cobblestone streets of Prague, you'll head south and discover a new level of elegance and pastoral beauty in Austria, from opera houses to Alpine lakes. Then it's off to Slovenia to explore the charms of Lake Bled and the Karst region before a weeklong tour of Croatia from Zagreb to the sunny Dalmatian coast.

A Taste of Morocco: Marrakech, Aït Benhaddou, & Essaouira - 5 Days

Perfect for travelers who want to learn about the history, cuisine, and culture of Morocco in one quick trip, this 5-day itinerary is focused on the busy city of Marrakech with quick trips to the Altas Mountains and the seaside city of Essaouira. You'll sample the dynamic flavors of Moroccan tagine, browse aisles of spices and textiles in markets, tour historic Medinas, and pamper yourself with a traditional spa experience in a hammam.

Road Trip Through the Balkans - 16 Days

This quick-moving tour will take you on a fascinating circuit through Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, visiting UNESCO cities such as Ohrid, Kotor, and Berat and combining culture with the scenic nature that abounds in the Balkans. You'll enjoy scenic drives through tall mountain passes, vibrant national parks, and along the picturesque coast of the Adriatic Sea, stopping for day hikes, traditional meals, and beach days, plus in charming old towns like Perast and Prizren. Explore two of the region's capitals, Tirana and Podgorica, as well as Montenegro's Old Royal Capital of Cetinje. 

Hiking in Naples and the Amalfi Coast - 7 Days

Stretch your legs around the beauty of the Amalfi Coast in this 7-day tour, starting in the vibrant city of Naples. Explore the monuments and sites of your city hub and explore the nearby island of Capri and the ruins of Pompeii, plus hike around the crater of Mt. Vesuvius. Then move on to the scenic Amalfi coast where Agerola will be your hub, allowing you easy access to breathtaking hikes leading to the villages of Ravello, Positano and Antrani.

Hiking the Villages of Cinque Terre - 6 Days

On this colorful, seaside tour, you'll hike the routes along Cinque Terre's famous coastlines, visiting villages like Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, and Portovenere. You'll hike through scenic vineyards and along steep trails to score the best views of the Ligurian Sea, stopping at sanctuaries, churches, castles, and seaside abbeys. At the end of your trip, enjoy a boat cruise along the entirety of Cinque Terre, from Portovenere to Levanto.

Discover the Balkans: Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo - 9 Days

This unique tour traverses three Balkan countries—Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo—in search of peaceful nature, vibrant cities, and interesting history. Visit the cities of Tirana, Shkodër, and Gjakova discovering charming old towns, historic fortresses, and stunning monuments. Then head into nature for hiking in the Prokletije Mountains, zip lining in the Rugova Canyon, riding the famous Lake Kolmani Ferry, and resting at a popular farmstay with delicious, locally-sourced cuisine.

Exploring Portugal's Heritage - 8 Days

Combining the exploration of vibrant cities like Porto, Lisbon, and Coimbra with exceptional nature in Tomar and the Portuguese Riviera, this trip showcases the unique and diverse culture of Portugal. You'll peruse historical city streets and monuments, plus UNESCO sites like the Roman ruins of Évora, the Pena National Palace and forest in Sintra, and the birthplace of Portugal, the town of Guimarães. Escape the city vibes with the impressive Almourol Castle along the Tejo River, the scenic town of Cascais along the Riviera, and the most westerly point in mainland Europe, Cabo da Roca.

A Taste of Morocco: Casablanca to Marrakech - 8 days

This eight-day loop from Casablanca to Marrakesh offers a perfect mix of imperial cities, smaller towns, and unforgettable desert adventures. You'll start in the north with Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, and Fes before venturing into the desert for a camel ride and night under the stars at a desert camp, as well as exploring old caravan routes, oases, and fortified kasbahs. You'll then cross the High Atlas mountains into bustling Marrakesh to wander souks and experience the lively Jemma el-Fna square.

Explore Bergen & Tromsø - 6 Days

Take a whirlwind tour through Norway’s most enchanting destinations on this diverse 6-day itinerary. Start on the southwest coast, where you’ll settle into historic UNESCO-listed  Bergen for three nights. Discover the charming port city's character-filled cobbled streets and lively atmosphere, then venture deep into the iconic scenery of the fjords, where you’ll travel by train and boat through some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes. End your Norwegian adventure with a flight to the far north, where the Arctic city of Tromsø serves as your base to explore pristine wilderness by dogsled and go searching for the elusive northern lights.

Discover the Tastes of Salento & Southern Puglia - 10 Days

Discover Salento's culinary treasures with wine, burrata, and olive oil tastings while mastering the art of local cuisine and exploring several of southern Puglia's most enchanting towns. Stroll through historic Ostuni and Alberbello, savor delicious seafood in Lecce and Gallipoli, and feast on farm-to-table specialties at your cozy "agriturismo." End your trip in the stunning mountainside city of Matera, where you'll explore the famous Sassi cave dwellings.

Discover the Tastes of Salento - 8 Days

Indulge your tastebuds in this gastronomic tour of beautiful Salento, starting with an olive oil tasting at your local farm stay, where you'll also enjoy cooking classes and daily farm-fresh breakfasts. Explore the historic towns and cities of Salento, including Lecce, Ostuni, Otranto, and Alberbello, home of the famous Trulli huts. Visit a local fish market, learn how traditional pasta and burrata cheese are made, and explore the fascinating archeological dwellings of UNESCO Heritage Site Matera, with its famous rustic bread.

Discover the Tastes of Salento - 6 Days

Discover the authentic taste of Salento in this gastronomic tour that takes you through some of the most charming villages in Southern Italy, including Alberobello with its Trulli houses, Ostuni with its white-washed facades, and Castro with its rocky coastline. Enjoy tasting farm-fresh foods, local olive oil, wine, and burrata cheese, plus take cooking classes with your hosts and in the town of Maglie. End your trip with a walking tour of a stunning limestone landscape filled with fascinating archeological sites near the UNESCO Heritage Site of Matera, a ancient hilltop city famous for its rustic bread.

Exploring Italian Wines in Tuscany and Cinque Terre - 8 Days

This tour takes you through the gorgeous region of Tuscany, where you'll indulge your tastebuds with locally-sourced cuisine and wine tastings, all while sleeping in a farmhouse surrounded by the scenic Chianti Hills. Visit medieval towns and cities, like Siena, Florence, Volterra, and San Gimignano, tasting wine along the way, including the famous noble wine at Brunello di Montalcino and Sassicaia in Bolgheri. End your trip in beautiful Cinque Terre, where more wine and local food awaits you, plus a private boat tour of all five villages.

Italian Wine Journey Through Tuscany & Cinque Terre - 7 Days

Indulge your taste buds on a Tuscany tour, exploring charming medieval towns like Siena, Volterra, and San Gimignano. Wander ancient streets and savor local wines and cuisine, with stops at Florence, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Montalcino. Finish on Cinque Terre's rocky coast, savoring regional delights in La Spezia, Portovenere, and Riomaggiore.

Explore Portugal's Coast: Porto, Lisbon, The Algarve, & Peneda-Gerês National Park - 14 Days

Explore Portugal's epic coast and spend time discovering city centers, tiny towns, and picturesque beaches on this 14-day trip plan. You'll enjoy guided tours of Porto and Lisbon and will hike through the stunning landscapes in Peneda-Gerês National Park. With the Atlantic at your side, you'll discover beautiful towns like Viana do Castelo, Braga, and Aveiro (whose Venice-like canals are sure to charm you). Make the most of the coast with stops in gorgeous Lagos and surfing hotspots like Vila Nova de Milfontes and Sagres. 

Portugal: The Azores, Lisbon & Porto - 14 Days

Spend two weeks taking in the best of Portugal's scenery, history, food, and wine. This trip begins with three days in the Azores on the gorgeous green isle of São Miguel; discover the charming city of Ponta Delgada, sample local delicacies, go whale watching, and admire the island on a fantastic hike. You'll then head to Lisbon for two days of city life, followed by a string of beautiful towns and UNESCO World Heritage sites. End your stay with time in Porto and enjoy tasting flights of incredible Porto wine in the sweeping romance of the Douro Valley. 

9 Days in Iceland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Nine days is a comfortable amount of time to explore two of Iceland's regions. Consider a leisurely road trip around the famed Ring Road, getting off the main route to spend time in Thorsmork and the Highlands or the Westman Islands (a favorite local hideaway). The five itineraries below take you to popular areas, like the Golden Circle and South Coast, while also incorporating lesser-known territories, including the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the Westfjords.

Gastronomy and Wine in Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Douro Valley - 10 Days

Indulge your tastebuds in this tour of Portugal's gastronomy and wine, starting in vibrant Lisbon with a visit to the famous Mercado do Livramento in Setúbal, followed by a wine tasting tour in the charming city of Évora. Next you'll explore Portugal's rural countryside with visits to a historic olive grove, a cork farm, and the humble Schlist Mountain Villages, plus take a cooking class amongst the ruins of Marialva and drive out to the gorgeous vineyards of the Douro River Valley. End your trip in Porto where you'll watch the fishermen barter their daily catch and tour a sardine cannery.

10 Days in Portugal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Portugal, you can visit at least three regions—or add a few days in Spain. Foodies can join a cooking class with a Michelin-starred chef in Lisbon and enjoy wine tastings in Porto and the Douro Valley. Active travelers can kayak to Benagil Caves, take a food walk around Lisbon, and experience volcanic activity in the Azores. History and art enthusiasts will appreciate a private tour of Museo del Prado in Madrid, a visit to Sagrada Família in Barcelona, and a guided city tour in Lisbon.

1 Week in Portugal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Portugal, you can check out the must-see sites of Lisbon and Porto or opt for a beach and coastline-filled itinerary featuring the Algarve Coast. If you're a foodie, opt for a culinary tour of Portugal, complete with cooking classes and market visits, while hiking enthusiasts embark on a supported trek from Guincho to Sintra. Other options include a trip split between Lisbon and Lagos and a history-filled journey in northern Portugal.