Travel Insights

Discover Sri Lanka: Dambulla, Kandy, Ella, Yala, & Weligama - 12 Days

Discover the culture, heritage, wildlife, and beaches on this Sri Lankan journey. To start, visit the esteemed Dambulla Rock Temple. Then, climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, followed by a trip to a local village, complete with a nature walk and an authentic meal on a working farm. Next, explore the temples and sights of Kandy and the scenic tea country of Ella. Stop for a safari at Yala National Park and then head to Weligama for an ancient fort tour, some whale watching, and four days of beach bliss.

Southwest Ireland Family Adventure - 7 Days

Explore villages, islands, peninsulas, and coastlines on this weeklong Irish family adventure through Kinsale and Kenmare. Learn about ancient pirate legends, smugglers, and monks of times past, from Charles Fort to the Skellig Islands. Your personal guide will help you to make the most of your journey by sharing ancient myths and legends and introducing you to local characters. Experience an authentic, off the-beaten-track version of Southwest Ireland together.

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Westport & More - 14 Days

This ultimate self-driving tour of Ireland is filled with adventures in historic towns and along scenic coastlines. Start in Dublin before exploring the villages of Laragh, the medieval Rock of Cashel in Cork, and the hiking trails in Kinsale. Then, tour Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and Inch Beach off the Dingle Peninsula. The final leg of the road trip takes you to the must-see Cliffs of Moher, bohemian Galway, and two historic national parks before a final night in Derry.

Vietnam Nature and Culture Tour: Hanoi, Hue, Ho Chi Minh City, & More - 17 Days

Explore the cultural and natural highlights of Vietnam on this 17-day trip. Arrive in Hanoi and indulge in a street food walking tour, followed by a day at Pu Luong National Park and dinner with a local host family. Next, explore the beauty of Trang An's caves, followed by an overnight cruise along Halong Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay. Then, trek through Phong Nha National Park and camp overnight before discovering the stunning Tu Lan Cave System. Next is Hue, and another dinner with a local family, as well as a tour of the ancient city. Head to Hoi An for some sightseeing, a free day, and a fishing village tour. The trip concludes in Ho Chi Minh City with a Vespa tour and a day trip to the Mekong Delta.

6 Days in Iceland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Six days is enough time for a quick and eventful road trip through a couple of regions of Iceland, but not enough time to drive the full Ring Road. Most trips offer plenty of flexibility to circle back to any sights missed along the way. Tour dozens of destinations among the stunning Icelandic landscapes, from the Golden Circle to the South Coast. Enjoy both warm and cold adventures—with chances to enjoy more winter-forward excursions and sightings of the Northern Lights in the summer—in these five trip plans.

7 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Spend a week in Myanmar, and you can easily tour the highlights of two cities, plus a side trip to one of the country's famed natural areas. Pair Bagan and Yangon, for example, with a trip to the famed Inle Lake. Or, focus on a smaller region, like the tropical Myeik Archipelago or off-the-beaten-path Eastern Myanmar. Ride the "Death Railway," snorkel with whale sharks, take a cooking class in a local home, or cycle to a Buddhist nunnery: learn more in these five unique itineraries.

Explore Southern Myanmar and the Beaches of Thailand - 12 Days

This 12-day excursion begins surrounded by the forest in Myanmar and ends in the mountains of Thailand. In Myanmar, you'll learn about local crafts and storytelling at the Tanintharyi Museum, then visit villages and plantations making rubber, betel nut, and dried fish. You'll explore the Mergui Archipelago, eventually making your way to the Ranong pier in Thailand. While in Thailand, you'll visit the Seaside Retreat Elephant Camp and the Similan Islands.

Classic Argentina: Buenos Aires, Patagonia, and Salta - 18 Days

Experience the vast marvels of Argentina on this adventure that will take you from vibrant Buenos Aires to majestic Patagonia and the desert plains. In Patagonia, you'll visit some of the largest glaciers in the region. You'll hike through the majestic beauty of the Lake District and then you'll travel to the far north and the colonial city of Salta. From there, you'll set off for a desert road trip, where you'll visit colonial towns and world-famous wine-producing regions.

Classic Argentina: Buenos Aires, Patagonia, and Salta - 19 Days

This exciting itinerary includes the best natural attractions in Argentina's north and south. After taking in the sights in Buenos Aires, you'll head to Patagonia, where you'll experience spectacular glaciers in El Calafate and lakes in Bariloche. Then, from the colonial city of Salta, you'll begin a road trip through rugged gorges, giant salt flats, and colorful deserts in the country's far north.

5 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Even if you have less than a week to explore Myanmar, you can still visit more than one region—just as long as you're prepared to take a few domestic flights. Pair Mandalay with Bagan, or hop between Yangon, Bagan, and the famed Inle Lake. You can also spend your days snorkeling off Ngapali Beach, pedaling through rice paddies on a bike tour of the Shan State, or touring the shrines and pagodas of hidden Myanmar.

10 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With ten days in Myanmar, it's possible to spend ample time in each of the country's three major cities—Yangon, Bagan, and Mandalay—plus day trips. The itineraries below include a wide range of activity and tour options: cooking classes, countryside cycling tours, a cultural visit to a Buddhist nunnery, and a hot air balloon ride over the temples of Bagan. For a multi-country adventure, you can even cross the border and combine five days in Myanmar with five more in Thailand.

Myanmar & Thailand Adventure - 10 Days

You don't have to choose between Myanmar and Thailand: this ten-day itinerary takes you to both. View the magnificent temples of Bagan from above, see the floating gardens of Inle Lake, and go for a river cruise in Myanmar before crossing the border to Thailand, where hot springs, beaches, and impressive cultural sights—like Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi—await.

Highlights of Bolivia & Chile - 14 Days

This exciting itinerary will take you through some of South America's most beautiful landscapes. You'll begin the journey in Santa Cruz and the historic settlement of Samaipata, then continue to high-altitude La Paz. Then enjoy a week of exploring natural wonders, traveling to the Uyuni Salt Flats, seeing flamingos in the wild at Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, and crossing over to Chile to see the otherworldly Atacama Desert.

Kenya Wildlife & Culture Tour - 5 Days

This exciting Kenyan adventure combines three key destinations known for wildlife and culture. You'll transfer to Lake Naivasha from Nairobi to get friendly with non-predatory wildlife. Next, drive to a cultural camp and learn about the distinct Maasai lifestyle. Then continue east to the Mara River, where you'll experience private safaris while searching for elephants, zebras, and lions—best viewed during the Great Migration (July through September).

Discover the Dingle Peninsula - 10 Days

With countless routes traversing one of Ireland's most treasured peninsulas, Kerry is a walker's paradise. This tour combines the charming Irish towns of Dingle, Killarney, Sneem, and Kenmare with stunning hikes along Slea Head, Kenmare Bay, and the famous Dingle Way. You'll cycle in Killarney National Park, take the ferry to the Blasket Islands, stroll through oak forests, and enjoy views of grassy bogland, dramatic cliff drops, and the picturesque Slieve Mish Mountains.

Iceland: Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Golden Circle, Westman Islands, & South Coast - 8 Days

Enjoy four, scenic regions of Iceland in just over one week. Upon arrival, head to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula to take in your first glimpses of the lava formations, black-sand beaches, and waterfalls that make this region famous. Travel the Golden Circle to discover the tectonic plates meeting, geothermal wonders, and a warm lagoon soak. Ferry to the lesser-known-yet-stunning Westman Islands to visit the sea caves, cliffs, a decorated puffin colony, and more—by boat and foot—followed by additional waterfalls, beaches, and incredible arches and cliffs along the South Coast. Venture into the heart of several glaciers and their accompanying lagoons. Tour Reykjavík and make a few final stops in the Reykjanes Peninsula to close out the trip.

Luxury Safari in Kenya - 12 Days

Travelers who enjoy the finer things in life while getting out into nature will love this 12-day luxury safari tour in Kenya. Stay in some of the country's most beautiful and distinctive safari lodges and city accommodation, including the unique Giraffe Manor, where you can get up (very!) close to the beautiful creatures.  Meet Maasai people and learn about their lives at the Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp. Spot a wide variety of animals and birds at numerous wildlife reserves, including buffalo, wildebeest, zebras, lions, and much more.

Kenya Safari & Uganda Gorilla Trek - 2 Weeks

This two-week itinerary includes some of the best wildlife encounters and safari experiences that East Africa offers. In Kenya, you'll spend time at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, home to the only remaining northern white rhinos in the world, and experience cultural immersion with Maasai people while staying in a camp near the Maasai Mara. Then fly across the border to Uganda to spend an incredible day hiking and looking for gentle mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

Kenya Wildlife Safari & Cultural Immersion - 7 Days

Enjoy the best natural and cultural experiences that Kenya has to offer in a quick but comprehensive seven-day tour. After a day exploring the attractions of Nairobi, hit the ground running at the Lake Nakuru National Park, one of the finest wildlife areas in the country. Get a close-up experience of local Maasai culture and the Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp, an authentic example of how the Maasai people live and work these days. End with a bang, at the world-renowned Maasai Mara Wildlife Reserve, where you'll enjoy several morning and afternoon safari expeditions, for the greatest chances of seeing the Big Five, and much more.

Croatia Luxury Tour: Split, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 5 Days

This incredible Croatia highlights itinerary packs a lot into five days and is complete with private transfers to and from your luxury accommodations in Split, Hvar Island, and Dubrovnik. Discover the ancient port city of Split and marvel at Diocletian's Palace, one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the world on a private food tour of the city. Head to Hvar and see the interior of the island on an exciting half-day excursion from Hvar Town and end your stay with two nights in Dubrovnik where you'll also explore Cavtat and Konavle—the less-frequented gems beyond the "Adriatic Pearl."

Ecuador Cities & Volcanoes: Quito to Cotopaxi - 12 Days

Visit the cities and volcanoes of beautiful Ecuador on this 12-day adventure. Start in the nation's capital, exploring its well-preserved colonial center and other cultural highlights. Then, head out on a busy tour through small towns like Cotacachi, enjoying several indigenous markets and villages along the way. You will also check off wondrous volcanoes like Pasachoa and Cotopaxi, as well as the unique paramo ecosystem of Chimborazo. The final leg of the trip takes you to Ecuador's lovely third city, Cuenca, before going full circle and ending in Quito again.

Art & History in St. Petersburg - 7 Days

This tour of St. Petersburg gives you a taste of this magnificent city and its compelling stories. The city was founded in 1703 by Peter the Great, and over the centuries it has gained a reputation as one of the most elegant of Europe's cities. Experience St. Petersburg's rich culture and history at its many museums, galleries, and palaces, including the Peter and Paul Fortress, the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood, and the "Russian Versailles", Peterhof.

Best Time of Year to Visit Portugal

While Portugal is known for its year-round pleasant weather, it still experiences some variations in temperature. The country's golden beaches and urban attractions draw crowds in the summer months, making shoulder seasons (spring and winter) an excellent time to travel. Below, you'll find valuable tips to help you plan your trip.

Ireland in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Ireland's great winter hibernation begins this month, as attractions and many hotels and restaurants close down from now until next Easter, temperatures drop back into the single digits and average daily hours of sunshine dwindle. The positives? The Irish combat the winter blues with some great art festivals, and you will have many parts of the country almost to yourself as you explore.

Ireland in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is all about Christmas in Ireland, with the bigger towns and cities particularly erupting in festive events, markets, and elaborate decorations. The Christmas build-up is special, although the day itself is more of a family celebration. Things get going again for New Year, with Dublin throwing the biggest party of all. The bright lights and events compensate for the weather: it is some of the coldest and wettest weather of the entire year, in fact, and no time to be out exploring the countryside.

Ireland in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The heavens open this month, as the highest rainfall of the year hits Ireland—but fall colors brighten the moors, hills, and forests and the sun still shines some of the time. When it does, the weather can be the most beautiful of any time of year, particularly with hardly any other travelers around. Beware of long hikes in the increasing mud, and be sure to have a 'plan B' available for the likely damp days: great music and arts festivals in Cork and Dublin this month are helpful options.

Ireland in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

With a continuation of—and occasional improvement on—the weather of the summer high season, September overall could offer the perfect vacation in Ireland. Air and water temperatures are still some of the year's best, and yet crowds are minimal now as kids are back in school and families have returned home from their summer vacation.

Ireland in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is the height of the summer season, with sunny, largely dry weather and the year's warmest sea temperatures. Clement conditions make the setting for some great outdoor festivals around Ireland, alongside a spate of outdoor activities that showcase the country at its absolute best, whether that is hiking the Wicklow Way in the east, diving off the coast of Connemara, or sea kayaking along Northern Ireland's stunning seaboard.

Ireland in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is a sunny and comparatively dry month to visit Ireland. Water temperatures reach their annual maximum, increasing the temptation of activities like kayaking, while the warmest weather of the year makes hiking and cycling very popular now. This is the month when there are school holidays, and is accordingly one of Ireland's busiest periods.

Ireland in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

To announce the start of the summer high season, June has something going on almost every day in every region of the country. A lively atmosphere pervades in the villages, towns, and cities, and out in the countryside, be that up in the hills or along the coast, it is getting crowded. Some of the sunniest weather of the year makes June even easier to enjoy.

Ireland in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is when the weather, which has been warming for the last few months, shows the landscapes of Ireland in full color as average daily high temperatures of 59°F/15°C arrive and the countryside blooms with flowers and birdlife. Along with April, this is arguably the best month to enjoy Ireland, with the year's lowest rainfall to accompany the sun and with the crowds that arrive in the high season from June to August still absent in most places.

Ireland in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Many rate April as one of the best months to visit Ireland, period. Everything is open after the winter closures of many hotels, restaurants, and attractions, and the weather is vastly improved: in fact, depending on where you are, it could just be sunnier and more settled than at almost any other time of year. The year's crowds are not yet here, though, making your explorations more enjoyable and stress-free.

Ireland in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Spring may take a while to come to Ireland, as chilly, rainy weather is as slow to clear as the country is in coming back into action after a winter's break that has seen many hotels, restaurants, and attractions outside the big cities close completely. But two big festivities toward the end of the month, St Patrick's Day and Easter bring Ireland back into life with a bang, while the increasing appearance of the sun means visitors can enjoy at least a little of the outdoor activities now on offer.

Ireland in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Continued rainy, windy weather this month means that by now the Irish are likely heartily sick of winter. Perhaps this is why February is full of brilliant festivals everywhere from Dublin to Kerry. Indoor attractions will still be what occupy your time on a visit to Ireland this month, with a deep, varied, and colorful legacy of historic sights to explore. But in the slowly increasing spells of sunshine, perhaps consider a wild walk along Ireland's iconic coastline, with its cliffs, sandy bays, and delightful fishing villages.

Ireland in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The coldest, windiest, and wettest weather of the year makes January in Ireland a month best spent in its bigger towns and cities, where cultural attractions from Dublin's beautiful Trinity College to Killarney's mystery-swathed ruins await. Great dining in Dublin, Belfast, Galway, and Cork further help pass time in the wild weather, while dramatic sea vistas greet those who brave the elements to visit coastal stretches like the Wild Atlantic Way.

Scottish Highlands Self-Drive Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness & Loch Ness - 8 Days

Discover the enchanting history and dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands with this 8-day self-drive itinerary. Starting in Edinburgh,  drive north to the rugged highlands, where you’ll explore ancient castles, visit important battle sites, sail Loch Ness, and ride the world’s most scenic railway.

Best of Yangon, Bagan, & Inle Lake- 7 Days

From serene temples to bustling markets, city landscapes to divine natural paradises, this weeklong trip showcases the diversity of Myanmar. Start in intriguing Yangon, travel to temple-filled Bagan, then touch down in tranquil Inle Lake, where you'll boat past floating gardens and traditional villages built on stilts. After seven days, you'll wish you could stay longer.

13 Days in Croatia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Thirteen days in Croatia allows you to cover multiple regions—you can visit the Dalmatian coast, the Istrian peninsula, and even Montenegro in one trip. You can see more highlights at a reasonable pace by flying open-jaw, thanks to the international flight options to Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik. Learn more with these well-planned itineraries, below.

A Wine-Lover’s Walking Tour: Piedmont & Tuscany - 8 Days

This 8-day itinerary takes you on a gastronomic adventure through two of Italy’s most spectacular landscapes and cuisines. Starting in the Piedmont hill town of La Morra, you’ll work your way south to Tuscany, ending in the medieval city of Montalcino. In between, you’ll explore picturesque villages, sample local dishes, and visit historic wineries. 

Best of Yangon, Bagan, Inle & Loikaw - 10 Days

Discover a treasure trove of cultural wonders on this adventure around Myanmar. As you travel from Yangon to Bagan to Inle Lake, you'll be immersed in rich local culture and see incredible sites, including Shwedagon Pagoda, floating gardens, and traditional villages in Loikaw, a region only recently opened to tourism.

11 Days in Croatia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Eleven days is a great introductory trip to Croatia, especially if you focus on multiple cities in a single region like Istria or Dalmatia. You can cover country-wide highlights if you don't mind a fast-paced trip too. Thanks to the international flight options to Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, you can start your trip in the north and work your way south along the coast. Learn more with these inspiring itineraries, below.

12 Days in Croatia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Twelve days is enough time to cover multiple regions in Croatia—such as the Dalmatian coast and the Istrian peninsula—at a reasonable pace. You can take in the main highlights and include some adventure activities by flying open-jaw, thanks to the international airports in Zagreb and Dubrovnik. Learn more with these great itineraries, below!

Wonders of the Adriatic Coast: Venice to Dubrovnik - 11 Days

Explore Croatia's stunning coastline from Venice, through Istria, down to the popular islands of Dalmatia. You will see breathtaking views of the Adriatic, cascading waterfalls and emerald-green lakes while sampling some of the country's best wines and delicacies. This well-balanced itinerary of cultural and natural sightseeing is a wonderful introduction to the best of Croatia.

Japan's Big Four: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka & Hiroshima - 10 Days

This diverse 10-day itinerary leads you through Japan's four major cities. Start in Tokyo, exploring the city's ultra-modern technology and ancient monuments. Then head to the quiet shrines of traditional Kyoto, the buzzing food scene of trendy Osaka, and the historic landmarks and lively downtown of Hiroshima. Along the way, you'll visit beautiful islands and bamboo forests, sample regional delicacies on a food tour, see sumo wrestlers in action, and try locally produced sake and whiskey.

Hike the Antrim Coast: Ballycastle to Belfast - 7 Days

On this tour, you'll experience some of Ireland's most beautiful hikes. Welcome to the Antrim Coast, complete with dramatic coastlines, windswept cliffs, spectacular scenery, and quiet beaches. Start with a walk through the dense Breen Oakwood Nature Reserve before heading to Ballycastle for a hike around Murlough and Fair Head, where you'll gaze down at breathtaking cliffs and relax on beaches. Head out to the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Giant's Causeway, then end your trip in the historic city of Belfast.

Off the Beaten Path in Vietnam - 7 Days

On this odyssey in Vietnam, you'll discover historic cities, scenic caves, and delicious local flavors. In Hanoi, you'll visit the first university in Vietnam and the infamous Hoa Lo Prison. Then it's a boat tour of massive caves followed by a tour of the Imperial Citadel of Huế. Throughout the trip, you'll sample the deep flavors of authentic Vietnamese food and drink throughout the trip.

Greek Odyssey: Athens, Saronic Islands, & the Peloponnese - 10 Days

Explore Greece's ancient wonders on this adventurous 10-day tour. Starting in the vibrant capital of Athens, you'll spend a day discovering the mysteries of Delphi before setting sail across the Saronic Gulf, mooring at the spectacular islands of Aegina, Poros, and Moni. Back on land, set off on a self-guided exploration of the Peloponnesian Peninsula, visiting the Bronze Age ruins of Mycenae, the fairytale carved village of Monemvasia, and the Byzantine mountain monasteries of Mystros.

Total Solar Eclipse Tour December 2020: Santiago, Atacama & Pucón - 13 Days

There are few natural events as spectacular or memorable as a full solar eclipse, and on this 13-day tour of Chile in December 2020 you'll watch the amazing event from the clear skies of Pucon. As well as dedicating a full day to watching the eclipse, you'll tour many of Chile's other highlights, including the modern capital Santiago, the historic port city of Valparaíso, the excellent wineries of the valleys, and the unparalleled natural beauty of the Atacama Desert, plus much more. This comprehensive tour fits in a lot of different sights and experiences and is sure to be memorable.

Uganda & Tanzania Safari: Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, Serengeti & Ngorongoro - 15 Days

This journey of a lifetime will take you to some of the most astonishing natural wonders in Uganda and Tanzania. Begin in Uganda, where you'll visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, known for its wild mountain gorillas, and Queen Elizabeth National Park for a big-game safari. Then, travel to Tanzania and Serengeti National Park, where game drives, wilderness camping, and a hot air balloon safari await. Finish your trip at the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest inactive volcanic caldera in the world.

Highlights of Zambia: Victoria Falls & South Luangwa - 7 Days

In this 7-day tour, you will explore some of Zambia's most astonishing natural gems. You will begin the adventure canoeing and sunset cruising on the Zambezi River—the fourth-longest in the entire African continent! Then, you'll be able to enjoy another fluvial wonder: the breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Finally, you will have three thrilling nights on safari at South Luangwa National Park. Keep your eyes open for zebras, elephants, lions, and more.