Travel Insights

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 17 Days

From the streetside cafes of Paris to the fresh seafood markets of Normandy, this seventeen-day road trip through western France has it all. Spend a few days in the capital viewing art and eating your weight in pastries, then head west along the coast to vacation like the French on the Normandy seaside. Wrap the trip up in the Loire Valley and Bordeaux, famous for their countryside castles, 18th-century farmer's markets, and the freshest oysters in France.

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, & More - 18 Days

If spending eighteen days driving from France's capital down the western Atlantic Coast sounds like the perfect getaway, this itinerary is for you. Start in Paris for flaky croissants and strong espresso, then hit the road for the coast. Vacation like the French on the Normandy seaside as you explore medieval and WWII history, then continue to the Loire Valley to see resplendent châteaus. End in Bordeaux, where the wine and oysters are unparalleled. 

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Cognac, Bordeaux, & More - 19 Days

Drive along the Atlantic Coast on this nineteen-day road trip through western France. Start in Paris to see world-famous galleries at the Louvre and walk along the Seine River, then head west to explore the fishing villages and beaches of the Atlantic Coast. Visit Mont-Saint-Michel, the abbey on an island, and enjoy fresh seafood in a typical brasserie. End the trip in Bordeaux to sample the best of France’s wine and cuisine.

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Cognac, Bordeaux, & More - 20 Days

Vacation like the French on the Normandy seaside on this 20-day road trip through western France. You'll walk through the gilded halls of Versailles, immerse yourself in history on the D-Day beaches, and sample the best of France’s wine and cuisine in Bordeaux. For a taste of authentic western France life, haggle with vendors for your lunch at an 18th-century market, then head to the beach to enjoy wine and seafood on the water.

Explore Madrid and the Canary Islands: Tenerife and La Gomera - 16 Days

A perfect combination of nature and city culture, this adventurous tour starts in the bustling capital of Madrid where you can explore its dazzling palaces, parks, and restaurants while sampling tapas and watching flamenco. Fly to the Canary Islands, stopping in Tenerife to explore its stunning natural beauty, historical vineyards, and culinary significance before taking a ferry to nearby La Gomera. Enjoy a little adventure by hiking in Anaga Park, summiting Spain's highest peak, star gazing, finding whales and dolphins while cruising on a yacht, sleeping at an aloe vera plantation, and exploring the rich forests of the islands.

Explore Madrid and the Canary Islands: Tenerife and La Gomera - 15 Days

This 2-week tour starts in the buzzy capital city of Madrid, where you can explore its monuments, parks, and local tapas culture before flying to the incredible Canary Islands, to Tenerife and La Gomera. Discover the natural beauty of the islands, plus the cultural significance with their historical vineyards, culinary extravagance, and idyllic villages. Before returning to Madrid, get a little adventurous with hikes in Anaga Park, star gazing atop Spain's highest peak, traversing dense forests, and whale-watching aboard a yacht.

Explore Madrid and the Canary Islands: Tenerife and La Gomera - 14 Days

A perfect combination of nature and city culture, this 2-week tour starts in the bustling capital of Madrid where you can explore its dazzling palaces, parks, and restaurants while sampling tapas and local cuisine. Fly to the Canary Islands, stopping in Tenerife to explore its stunning natural beauty, historical vineyards, and culinary significance before taking a ferry to nearby La Gomera. Enjoy a little adventure by hiking in Anaga Park, summiting Spain's highest peak, star gazing, finding whales and dolphins while cruising on a yacht, and exploring the rich forests of the islands.

Undiscovered Central Italy: Marche, San Marino & Umbria - 11 Days

Avoid the crowds and explore Italy's quieter central regions on this laid-back 11-day itinerary. Starting in Marche, you'll explore medieval hill towns, tour renowned wine country, and go truffle hunting in ancient woodlands. Spend a day climbing through the mountaintop kingdom of San Marino before crossing the Apennines to Umbria, Italy's "green heart." Here you'll soak up the art, culture, and cuisine of Perugia, its beguiling regional capital.

Undiscovered Central Italy: Marche, San Marino & Umbria - 10 Days

This relaxed 10-day itinerary gives you plenty of time to discover the hidden gems of central Italy. Start in eastern Marche, nestled between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea. Tour the area's renowned wine country, settle into the medieval hill towns of Ascoli Piceno and Urbino, and spend a day exploring the tiny kingdom of San Marino. Head southwest across the mountains to end your stay in Perugia, where you'll discover its Renassaince history and immerse yourself in the regional cuisine.

Undiscovered Central Italy: Marche, San Marino & Umbria - 9 Days

This leisurely 9-day itinerary introduces you to the medieval hill towns and rolling countryside of Italy's lesser-known central regions.  Skip the crowds and explore the rolling wine country and fortified villages of Marche before heading north to the tiny kingdom of San Marino. Cross the Apennines to end your trip in Umbria, sampling the culture and cuisine of the regional capital of Perugia.

Jordan in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By December there’s no doubt that winter has arrived. Jordan is at its coldest, the rainy season has begun, and even the first flurries of snow can blanket the land. However, this is the quiet low season, making a visit all the more personal. And Aqaba, on the shores of the Red Sea, is still warm enough for sunning and swimming.

Jordan in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November marks the approach of winter, with Amman and higher elevation tourist sites increasingly cold. The rainy season also begins at the end of November and continues through March. But Aqaba feels still like a perpetual summer, the Dead Sea is bathtub warm, there’s great hiking throughout the country, and no end of cultural activities.

Jordan in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Although regional variations are at their most extreme, perfect day temperatures in most of the country mean this is an ideal time to visit weather-wise. The rest of the world thinks the same: No other month receives as many visitors. October is especially kind for hikers and outdoor activities. And the warm waters of the Red Sea are especially tempting to divers.

Jordan in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The short-lived autumn arrives in September—a lovely time to visit as temperatures fall and exploring the main outdoor sites becomes more inviting. The end of the month is especially kind for hikers and outdoor activities, and the warm waters of the Red Sea are especially tempting to divers.

Jordan in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The hot, dry summer is at its peak, with August being the hottest (and very hot!) month, when colors get bleached out of the landscape. But don’t let this put you off. Choose your destinations wisely and August can still be enjoyable. Plus, you’ll be able to explore the most popular sights in relative solitude. And in August, the dark desert nights provide a pitch-black canvas for watching the annual Perseid meteor shower.

Jordan in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The hot, dry summer is at its peak, with July being the hottest (and very hot!) month. The spring wildflowers long ago faded, and colors get bleached out of the landscape by the hazy light. But don’t let this put you off. Choose your destinations wisely and July can still be enjoyable. Plus, you’ll be able to explore the most popular sights in relative solitude. And July hosts the country’s most vibrant festival—the Jerash Festival for Culture and Art.

Jordan in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The hot, dry summer has arrived. Daily temperatures will continue to rise into August, the hottest (and very hot!) month. So, if you must travel in summer, June is the best option. Plus, you’ll be able to explore the most popular sights in relative solitude. But the spring wildflowers have faded, and colors get bleached out of the landscape by the hazy light.

Jordan in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The transition month from spring to summer means warm to hot temperatures nationwide. Rains are mostly a distant winter memory. And the landscapes are still lush and ablaze with wildflowers. This is one of the two peak months for international visitors, reflecting that May is a great time to visit.

Jordan in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By April, spring has arrived and with it high season as visitors flock to experience Jordan at the best time of year. Nationwide, the Goldilocks temperatures are just right—neither too hot nor too cold. The landscapes are briefly lush and ablaze with wildflowers. Plus, two top events occur this month, while Ramadan also falls in April in 2020.

Jordan in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Spring is in the air, with more warming sunshine this month. Temperatures are gradually rising and the winter rainfall begins to ease—perfect for hiking and camping. The first bloom of wildflowers and the passage of migratory birds make this a great time to visit the country's nature reserves. By the end of the month, Jordan’s high tourist season is underway.

Jordan in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

As with January, Jordan in February is still in the midst of its cold, somewhat wet—and occasionally snowy—winter. But Aqaba, in the south, is delightfully temperate, tempting travelers to turn their attention to the south. Consider this bonus: You can explore Petra without the crowds.

Jordan in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

In January, Jordan is in the midst of its cold, somewhat wet—and occasionally snowy—winter. But Aqaba, in the south, is delightfully temperate, tempting travelers to turn their attention to the south. Consider this bonus: You can explore Petra without the crowds.

Thailand in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

December is one of the best months to visit Thailand. The temperatures have cooled down so it's not miserably hot, and the rains have stopped just about everywhere (although some of the beaches still get storms, especially on the Gulf of Thailand). It's hot but not scorching and everything is open again. The only drawback: stellar weather draws lots of tourists, so you'll contend with more lines and crowds—still, it's a fantastic time to plan a visit. 

Thailand in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November marks the end of the rain, once again entering the high tourist season in Thailand. The beaches along the southern peninsula remain wet and rainy, but the rest of the country sees dramatic drops in precipitation (and temperature), especially toward the middle and end of the month. It's a great time to visit just about anywhere in the country—the weather is rapidly improving, and most tourists haven't yet arrived.

Thailand in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is a wet, rainy month in Thailand—but it signals the end of a long monsoon season, lending a celebratory air as people begin to anticipate the fairer weather to come. Bangkok and Chiang Mai begin seeing drops in precipitation, though there's still significant rain. In the south along the coasts, the monsoon patterns of September continue. Temperatures begin dropping slightly this month, making it less stifling and more pleasant.

Thailand in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The scenery is beautiful in Thailand during September, however, the weather is wet. In fact, it ties with October for the wettest month of the year in almost every major tourist region including Bangkok, as well as both coasts. The monsoons affect virtually every part of the country, bringing rain through the north and central mainlands, as well as the southern peninsula. The upside to the rain is that the crowds are minimal and most hotels offer significant discounts on lodging—it will be cheaper to stay and you won't encounter big lines or crowds at the tourist attractions. 

Thailand in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Expect heavy rain in Thailand during the month of August—but that doesn't necessarily make it a bad time to visit. While it's right in the middle of the wet season. temperatures stay warm and the extra precipitation makes the countryside come alive with plants and foliage. Even better, the rain deters many travelers, so you'll have lots of regions to yourself (especially the beaches).

Thailand in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July can be a good time to visit Thailand, but you'll need to be prepared for rain. It's the middle of the wet season and most of the country experiences significant showers and thunderstorms from the southwest monsoons. The plus side is that the crowds are negligible and the prices are reduced. As a bonus, the rain makes the countryside lushly picturesque, and also creates perfect conditions for harvesting durian fruit. 

Thailand in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

June is a wet month in Thailand. The rainy season arrives in full force and most of the country becomes affected by the monsoons, particularly along the Andaman coast. That said, the rain doesn't necessarily make it a bad month to visit. Rain showers, though fierce and heavy, don't usually last long this time of year—instead, they come in short bursts in the afternoons. Plus, the hotels are cheaper and the tourist attractions are much less crowded. 

Thailand in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

May is the beginning of the rainy season in Thailand and, in most parts of the country, it rains at least half the month. In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the western Andaman coast, downpours are often heavy—though they usually only occur in the afternoons or early evenings). Mornings, in fact, are often dry and can surprisingly be a great time for sight-seeing or other tourist activities. What's more, the hotels are extremely cheap this time of year so if you don't mind a little rain, it can actually be a good month to visit. 

Undiscovered Central Italy: Marche, San Marino & Umbria - 8 Days

Step off the beaten path and discover some of central Italy's hidden treasures on this relaxed 8-day itinerary. Start in the bucolic region of Marche, where the medieval hill towns of Ascoli Piceno and Urbino will serve as your base for touring local wineries. After a visit to the tiny mountaintop country of San Marino, cross the Apennines to beautiful Umbria. Here you'll explore the region's fortified capital of Perugia, a vibrant city of ancient ruins and Renaissance architecture.

Thailand in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Depending on the type of vacation you're looking for, April can be a great month to visit Thailand. Yes, the hot weather deters many tourists—but it's also the month of the Songkran festival, one of Southeast Asia's biggest celebrations, which brings in masses of tourists to celebrate. In the major tourist centers, these two factors sometimes cancel each other out. Choosing to come to Thailand in April isn't for everyone, but it can be an amazing cultural experience. 

Thailand in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

March is a fabulous month to visit Thailand. The weather is still pleasant, especially in the first half of the month, although the southern beaches will start getting some rain along the Andaman Sea. It's also the beginning of mango season, and throughout the country, the colorful fruit is piled high at roadside stands and on people's plates mixed with sticky rice. Best of all, the hot season hasn't arrived yet (which is often uncomfortably warm) so you can walk around outside without being miserable.

Thailand in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

February is one of the best times to visit Thailand. In addition to all-but-guaranteed spectacular weather, it's the month of the famous Chiang Mai Flower Festival, a vibrant three-day celebration full of parades and dancing. The weather is dry and not as unbearably hot as it is during other times of the year. The only drawback is that the crowds are considerably thicker and lodging tends to be more expensive.

Thailand in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

January is one of the best times of the year to visit Thailand. High season is in full effect with perfect weather in just about every part of the country. It's cooler than other times of the year, especially up north around Chiang Mai where January ties with December for lowest average temperatures. The Chinese New Year often falls in January, and when this happens, it brings all sorts of delightful festivities and celebrations (the only downside being larger crowds and pricier hotels—book in advance!).

Undiscovered Central Italy: Marche, San Marino & Umbria - 7 Days

Spend a week exploring the historic hill towns and rolling wine country of Italy's lesser-known central regions. This 7-day itinerary starts in Marche, a lush, mountainous region hidden between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea. Visit the fortified medieval towns of Ascoli Piceno and Urbino, discover the rich winemaking culture of its countryside, and spend a day in the tiny fairytale kingdom of San Marino. Cross the mountains into Umbria to end your trip in the regional capital of Perugia, where you'll spend your final day learning to cook and savor the local cuisine.

Hiking The Japanese Alps From Nakasendo to Takayama - 6 Days

Combine the natural beauty of the Japanese Alps with visits to historic post towns in this six-day walking adventure. Hike across mountain passes and descend into villages filled with craft shops, gorgeous architecture, and picturesque streets, all while enjoying dramatic views of the alpine scenery. End your trip with an unforgettable hike through Kamikochi Wetlands, but not before sleeping each night in traditional onsen ryokans and enjoying daily hot spring baths.

Undiscovered Central Italy: Marche & Umbria - 6 Days

Skip the crowds on this packed 6-day jaunt through Italy’s lesser-known central regions. Hidden between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Marche boasts the rolling hills and rustic hill towns of Tuscany with far fewer tourists. Visit its beautiful fortified villages of Ascoli Piceno and Urbino, then sample its rich winemaking traditions on a tour of surrounding vineyards. Cross the mountains into Umbria to end your trip in the regional capital of Perugia, where you’ll explore ancient ruins, browse Renaissance art, and spend your final day learning to cook the local cuisine.

Hiking Adventure through Slovenia: The Alps, Lake Bohinj, & the Soča Valley - 14 Days

This intense and rewarding two-week hiking adventure through Slovenia's Alpine countryside is perfect for hiking aficionados who want an active vacation. This trip includes a three-day hut-to-hut trek, the beautiful scenery around Lake Bohinj, a hike along the border between Slovenia and Austria, and a few days in the Soča Valley filled with history and adventure.

Hike & Bike in Slovenia: Ljubljana, the Julian Alps, Goriška Brda, & Piran - 14 Days

This hiking and biking adventure is a great way to explore Slovenia on foot, by bike, on land, and on water. The tour starts in Ljubljana, before continuing on to the shores of Lake Bled, a good place to start your exploration of north-western Slovenia's rugged alpine landscape, crystal clear rivers, and lakes. After hiking through the Alps, drive south to the fertile wines of Goriška Brda, then continue on to the Adriatic Coast. Have a final free day in Piran before heading back to Ljubljana.

Kenya Family Safari: Nairobi, Nakuru, Maji Moto, Masai Mara - 8 Days

This eight-day safari tour of Kenya includes a range of wildlife and cultural activities that will appeal to both kids and adults. The itinerary fits a lot into a little more than a week, but you have enough time in each place to take it easy and not exhaust the younger members of the family (or the older ones!) Enjoy game drives in the unparalleled Maasai Mara Reserve, spend time with Maasai people in their villages to better understand their way of life, and have close encounters with a wide range of wildlife.

Discover Patagonia: Buenos Aires, El Calafate, El Chaltén, & Bariloche - 14 Days

Discover the major highlights of Argentina's Patagonia and Lake District on this 14-day itinerary. This is an active adventure, perfect for those passionate hikers and excursionists who can't get enough of the great outdoors. Start your trip in the heart of Patagonia where you'll see the Perito Moreno glacier, travel to El Chaltén to enjoy day hikes and stunning vistas featuring the iconic Mount Fitz Roy, and enjoy lake views and kayaking around Bariloche.

Best of Patagonia: El Calafate & Ushuaia - 12 Days

Experience the natural wonders of southern Argentina on this adventurous itinerary geared toward active travelers. Hike ancient glaciers in Los Glaciares National Park before heading to Ushuaia—the southernmost city in the world—for canoeing, channel cruising, and frolicking with penguins. You'll have many full days of hiking on this itinerary, but you'll still have time to experience the local culture, food, and wines.

Discover Brazil: Rio de Janeiro & Paraty - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary is perfect for travelers who are visiting Brazil for the first time. First, you'll tour the most famous sites in Rio de Janeiro, including the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue, and experience the energy of Carnival before heading off to the nearby colonial town of Paraty where you can stroll through historic neighborhoods, learn how to cook with Brazilian flair, bike through tropical forests, and relax on secluded beaches.

Winter in the Scottish Highlands - 6 Days

Experience winter in the Scottish Highlands on this unforgettable six-day itinerary. Surrounded by frozen lochs and ancient pine forests, you'll settle into a wonderland of scenic treks, wildlife watching, whisky tasting, and cozy fireside evenings. Spend three days with an expert guide who will take you hiking in this spectacular landscape and share fascinating tales of local history and their vast knowledge of the local flora and fauna. The guide will be able to tailor activities to your interests and activity level and act as your driver for those days.

Nature & Culture in Western & Central Bhutan - 12 Days

Remote Central Bhutan offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions that are rarely visited by outsiders. On this 12-day tour of Western and Central Bhutan, you can get a taste of it all. Hike along quiet rural trails to working monasteries, where you may be the only traveler. Drive along remote mountain roads over high passes with views of the high Himalaya. Explore the dzongs and other cultural riches in the small towns and villages of Bhutan. See Bhutan both on and off the beaten track.

Best of Vietnam: Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh City & More - 15 Days

Experience all of Vietnam's highlights in one trip with this exciting 15-day itinerary. The adventure begins in the capital of Hanoi where you'll get a walking tour of the Old Quarter. Then work your way south through small fishing villages and rice paddies, ancient temples and trading ports, and hidden charms of the Mekong Delta. Of course, there will be time to hit the beaches on Phu Quoc Island where you'll have two blissful free days at the end of the trip.

Namibia Desert Road Trip - 7 Days

See the highlights of Namibia on a weeklong road trip that offers you plenty of freedom and flexibility. You'll take a sunset safari drive on the Intu Afrika Kalahari Game Reserve, see the famous Red Dunes of Sossusvlei, go on a sunrise hike through Sesriem Canyon, see German-colonial architecture in the oceanside town of Swakopmund, and more.

Baltic Highlights: Estonia, Finland, & Russia - 9 Days

This 9-day itinerary is the perfect introduction to three of the most popular Baltic States. You'll begin with some of Estonia's most charming medieval sites in Tallinn, head to the quirky Finnish capital of Helsinki, and end your trip with some of Russia's most opulent landmarks and artworks in St. Petersburg.

Volcanoes of Ecuador: Quito, Otavalo, Cotopaxi, Guayaquil - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary is perfect for travelers who are interested in seeing the astoundingly beautiful landscapes of Ecuador. Travel along the Andean highlands to see ancient volcanoes, sacred waterfalls, and lagoons before ending your trip in the lush coastal lowlands. At the end of each adventurous day, you will be able to relax at beautifully restored haciendas that will allow you to step back in time.