Travel Insights

Hut-to-Hut Hiking in the Slovenian Alps- 5 Days

This self-guided five-day tour through the Slovenian Alps is perfect for independent adventure-seekers who want to spend their vacation hiking and trekking through gorgeous mountain scenery. The itinerary starts in the lively capital of Ljubljana before taking you into the Alps to meet shepherds and cheesemakers—and of course, taste fresh dairy products while you're at it. Your trek will take you up the lonely summits and grassy slopes of the Slovenian Alps, and you'll spend each night at a small mountain cabin. Finish your trip on the lovely shores of Lake Bled, and don't forget to ring the wishing bell!

Slovenia's Great Outdoors: Ljubljana, Lake Bled & Bovec - 5 Days

This brief but intense itinerary takes you through some of Slovenia's most postcard-worthy scenery. Start off in the capital before going lakeside at Bled, then spend a day hiking in Bohinj before heading up to through the mountains of the Julian Alps to visit Vršič Pass,  Soča Valley, and Bovec.

Bariloche & El Calafate Classic Tour - 8 Days

You can pack a wealth of incredible Patagonian experiences into a mere eight days. After flying from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, you'll embark on a boat trip across a lake to visit the region's most famous glacier, Perito Moreno. Then you'll trek in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world—Chile's Torres del Paine—before finishing the trip on Lago Nahuel Huapi and the resort town of Bariloche.

Bariloche & El Calafate Classic Tour - 10 Days

If you want to experience incredible nature excursions in both Chilean and Argentine Patagonia, then this itinerary is for you. It begins in Buenos Aires, from which you'll fly to El Calafate and Los Glaciers National Park to visit the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier. You'll then cross into Chile and trek in Torres del Paine, one of the most famous hiking destinations in the world, before finishing the adventure back in Argentina and the lakeside city of Bariloche.

Buenos Aires, El Calafate, & Bariloche - 12 Days

Over 12 days you'll embark on excursions in two equally beautiful regions of Patagonia: Los Glaciares National Park and the Lake District. After living it up in Buenos Aires, you'll fly to El Calafate and cruise the waters of Lake Argentino, visiting massive glaciers. Then you'll fly to Bariloche, in the Lake District, where you'll enjoy more lake activities plus go hiking in Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Argentina for Adventurers: Tierra del Fuego, Beagle Channel & Iguazú Falls - 12 Days

Perfect for adventurers hoping to explore Patagonia, one of the last unspoiled regions of the world. You'll discover its splendor over 12 days, beginning in El Calafate with tours of the El Perito Glacier and hikes around the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. You'll travel farther south and visit penguin colonies in Tierra del Fuego and cruise the famous Beagle Channel before heading north to see an altogether different—yet no less impressive—natural wonder: Iguazú Falls.

Best Time of Year to Visit Provence

The shoulder season months of May and September are the best times to visit Provence if you like warm weather, clear skies, and beaches without the throngs of tourists. But for travelers who can handle the crowds and surging prices, the summer (June to August) is a close second, as the lavender fields are in full bloom, and the French Riviera is open for business. If you're here in winter (December to February), enjoy a ski holiday in the Southern Alps or stick to the coast for wild carnival celebrations.

How Many Days to Spend in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city where you can get happily lost—in its energy, culture, and cuisine. With as little as 24 hours in Catalonia's capital, you can see the highlights, but with multiple days you'll discover even more of its treasures. Continue reading for the best options for activities in Barcelona, whether you're there for one day or five.

How Many Days to Spend in Madrid

If you're planning a vacation in Spain, most likely you'll arrive in the capital of Madrid. Not only is this the seat of Spain's government, but you couldn't imagine a more fun city—practically every block is home to world-class dining and drinking options. Even with just a day or two, you can have a great holiday in Madrid, but with four or five you'll be able to explore beyond the city limits.

Colombia Highlights: Bogotá, Coffee Region, Medellín & Cartagena - 14 Days

This journey begins in Bogotá, a melting pot of people from around the country. You'll then head to a nearby small town to witness a spectacular salt cathedral, one of Colombia's most visited attractions. Afterward, head east to the Coffee Region where you'll tour small towns, visit a coffee farm, and see the tallest wax palm trees in the world. The adventure continues in Medellín, Tayrona National Park, and Cartagena.

Cape Town Active Adventure - 15 Days

This 15-day tour focuses on exploring exciting Cape Town by pushing the boundaries of your body and mind. Enjoy fitness classes, surf lessons, and cross-fit challenges as you make your way through South Africa's most popular destination. You'll also get your adrenaline rush through adventure experiences like abseiling, canoeing, obstacle courses, and seal snorkeling. Finally, cycle through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes that surround Cape Town, including the Cape of Good Hope and the Cape Winelands.

Ecuador Wildlife & Culture: Quito, Mindo, Yasuni National Park - 10 Days

On this 10-day journey through Ecuador, you will experience culture and extraordinary wildlife. It is the perfect trip for the curious traveler who wants to see the magic of the Amazonian jungle, learn about indigenous communities, and experience history in the UNESCO-listed city of Quito. Zipline between trees through the rainforest, drink Wayusa with the Kichwa locals and shop for local crafts at the Otavalo Market.

Discover Argentine Patagonia: Buenos Aires, El Calafate, El Chaltén, Bariloche - 16 Days

Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, this active itinerary will take you to the highlights of Argentine Patagonia. After a walking tour and a tango show in Buenos Aires, you'll head to El Calafate where you'll traverse the towering Perito Moreno glacier with a guide.  Next, you'll travel further south in Patagonia to El Chaltén for long hikes near the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. Then, you'll visit the charming city of Bariloche for a kayak tour on Lake Macardi.

Climb Tanzania's Mount Meru – 5 Days

Adventurous travelers who love the idea of climbing an African mountain but who don't want an extremely challenging experience will enjoy this four-day climb of Mt. Meru. Most days will include a few hours of hiking, while on the long summit day, you'll start in the middle of the night and be rewarded by sweeping views over the plains toward Mt. Kilimanjaro. Spot wildlife, trek through different vegetation zones, and afterward, relax at the beautiful and historic Rivertrees Country Inn.

Natural Wonders of Japan - 10 Days

Just as fascinating as Japan's ultra-modern urban culture is its spectacular natural scenery. On this 10-day adventure, you'll venture beyond the glittering cities to explore Japan's stunning natural wonders and learn about the country's ancient cultural traditions. Visit ancient shrines, climb mountain peaks, wander through lush bamboo forests, learn about geisha culture and fine arts customs, and marvel at the country's most prized landscape garden. You'll end the journey in quiet Kyoto, enjoying a boat cruise on the Hozugawa River past vibrant cherry blossoms.

Southern Patagonia - 16 Days

Explore some of the most beautiful locales in Patagonia on this 16-day adventure. First, there's Los Glaciares National Park, in Argentina, where you'll take a boat trip on Lake Argentino to Perito Moreno Glacier. Next, you'll enjoy guided hikes in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park before heading to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, to do some trekking and penguin-spotting.

Russia's Rural Golden Ring - 7 Days

Explore the old Russia of onion-domed churches rising behind medieval walls, traditional wooden peasant cottages, and legendary, expansive countryside. You'll experience the highlights of rural and provincial Russia in a short time on this seven-day tour, traveling beyond Moscow and St. Petersburg and getting the chance to visit lesser-known places including Vladimir, Yaroslavl, and Suzdal.

World War II History Tour of Russia: Moscow, Volgograd, St. Petersburg, & More - 10 Days

This tour takes you back to World War II, or what Russians call the Great Patriotic War of 1941 -1945. You will visit the battlefields of Borodino, which saw action in 1812 and 1941; Stalingrad, the high-water mark of Hitler's invasion and the site of his first major defeat in early 1943; and Leningrad, present-day St. Petersburg, which experienced one of history's worst sieges. History enthusiasts will love seeing where the action happened.

Buenos Aires, El Calafate, & Bariloche - 13 Days

Visit the world's oldest glaciers on a 13-day Patagonian adventure that includes the alpine town of Bariloche plus Los Glaciers National Park. In the latter, you'll enjoy boat tours from the town of El Calafate to the most incredible glacier in the region, Perito Moreno. Then, in Argentina's beautiful Lake District, you'll experience the charms of Bariloche while embarking on nature hikes and boat trips around Lake Nahuel Huapi.

Buenos Aires, El Calafate, & Bariloche - 14 Days

This amazing two-week trip combines some of the most spectacular scenery that Argentine Patagonia has to offer. After enjoying a city tour and riverboat cruise in Buenos Aires, you'll head to El Calafate, the jumping-off point for Los Glaciares National Park, where you'll get up close to several glaciers. Finish the adventure in Bariloche where you can explore the region's lakes, forests, and mountains.

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand: Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown, Sydney, Melbourne & Cairns - 14 Days

This two-week crossover trip takes you from New Zealand to Australia with plenty of adventure laced throughout. From Auckland, visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the movie set of Hobbiton. Next, explore the volcanic landscape of Rotorua, followed by an entertaining dinner with the Maori. Go jet boating and wine tasting in Queenstown and tour the stunning Milford Sound. Then, fly to Sydney to go sightseeing and cruising around Sydney Harbour and embark on a day trip to the stunning Blue Mountains. In Melbourne, bookmark the hip neighborhoods and cafés and visit kangaroos and koalas in the wild. The tour concludes in Cairns with free time and an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef.

Cultural Immersion in Moscow - 8 Days

Spend a fabulous week deep-diving into Russian culture. Experience a Russian bathhouse and learn to cook some classic Russian dishes. Learn some of the language so you can communicate with the locals. Learn about Russian religion through its magnificent religious architecture, meet a local family for a traditional glass of tea, and enjoy other authentic experiences that will take you beyond the typical tourist trail.

Discover Norway by Train and Boat: Oslo, Bergen, Aurland, and Trondheim - 12 Days

Check off Norway's three biggest cities while traveling by train, ferry, and fjordcruise on this 12-day adventure. Start off in the country's buzzing capital followed by several days in Bergen on the west coast, surrounded by seven mountains. From here, board the Hurtigruten—a mighty coastal steamer—stopping in the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund before sailing to Trondheim by way of the Geirangerfjord. Circle back to Oslo by train for one more night on the town.

Discover Medellín & Cartagena - 9 Days

Discover the hidden wonders of Colombia on this excursion through two of its historic cities. Travel to Medellín, capital of the Antioquia province, and see with your own eyes how the once-controversial city has transformed through its rich Paisa culture. You'll then explore Cartagena—the jewel of the Caribbean ocean—for the second half of the trip and experience the nearby beaches and islands first-hand.

Trans-Siberian Rail Tour: Moscow to Beijing - 16 Days

Three great nations—Russia, Mongolia, and China—all in one trip, on this Trans-Siberian rail tour. Begin in golden-domed Moscow, visiting the highlights of the Red Square, the Kremlin, and Novodeivchiy Convent. After, stop at the major Russian city of Yekaterinburg and Lake Baikal, the world’s largest lake. Mongolia will greet you with its endless steppes and the Gobi Desert, finally ending in China with the legendary Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Ming tombs.

Russia of the Romanov Dynasty: Moscow & St. Petersburg - 10 Days

History enthusiasts will love the chance to experience Russia's two greatest cities through places associated with the ill-fated Romanov dynasty. Beginning with Peter the Great's eponymous city, you'll uncover more than two centuries of history while getting to know the modern side of this classical city. Continue to Moscow, where you'll visit the big-ticket attractions as well as lesser-known spots around the Kitai Gorod neighborhood.

Botswana Safari: Chobe & Okavango Delta - 5 Days

Check out two of Botswana's top destinations on this five-day trip. You'll start with Chobe National Park, best known for its large herds of animals, particularly elephants, which you'll follow on safari walks and game drives. Keep going to the famous Okavango Delta, a floodplain full of wildlife most frequently viewed by boat or canoe safari amid the many channels.

Best of Croatia: Dubrovnik to Zagreb - 11 Days

Explore the best of Croatia, from the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik, to the country's capital, Zagreb. During this 11-day itinerary, you'll see and experience the incredible seafood and wine, drink in breathtaking views over some of the most popular islands, and experience Croatian culture. Slow down a bit and enjoy the history-rich country while keeping active with a few opportunities to cycle, paddleboard, and sea kayak. 

Explore the Magic of Slovenia: Ljubljana and Lake Bled - 5 Days

Get a taste of Slovenia with this five-day itinerary that takes you through the streets of Ljubljana—where you'll learn how to make potica and visit Ljubljana Castle—and then to Lake Bled, where you'll get to watch the sunrise from above with a hot air balloon ride. On the way, you'll get to explore the underground landscapes of Postojna Cave and visit Predjama Castle, which was built right into a cliff. This short, action-packed itinerary really allows you to make the most of your five days in Slovenia.

Botswana Family Safari: Chobe & Okavango Delta - 10 Days

Safari through three separate zones of Botswana on this family-friendly route. You'll start off amidst the herds in Chobe National Park, known for its elephant population, then fly down to the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta. This lush ecosystem is bustling with flora and fauna, and you'll take them in from both western Moremi and your final stop on the Pom Pom Lagoon on the delta's eastern side.

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu and its surrounds offer a variety of seasonal outdoor activities and phenomenal festivals throughout the year. For ideal weather (bright, dry and cool), you'll want to join the many travelers that flock to the area from June to August, but almost-as-great conditions can still be had in September and October, with considerably fewer crowds. Learn more about Machu Picchu's weather, crowds, and annual events below.

Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip: Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Queenstown, Christchurch, & More - 14 Days

Spend two weeks in New Zealand on this eventful road trip. From Auckland, drive through the Coromandel Peninsula to Whitianga. Then, stop in Tauranga before hitting geothermic Rotorua, followed by Art Deco-inspired Napier. Drive through gorges and vineyards toward Wellington, and ferry to Picton prior to arriving in Nelson. Cruise through beautiful Te Anau before closing out the journey in Christchurch.

Adventures in Argentina: Puerto Madryn & Tierra del Fuego - 11 Days

This adventurous 11-day tour combines the highlights of Patagonia with breathtaking wildlife-spotting excursions. You'll see exotic marine mammals at Puerto Madryn, including right whales and sea lions. In Tierra del Fuego, you'll travel up the Beagle Channel to a working ranch before finishing the trip in El Calafate where you'll take a boat tour to Perito Moreno, the most famous glacier in the region.region.

10 Days in the Greek Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days, you can easily hop between three of Greece's distinct islands—Tinos, Naxos, and Ios in the Cyclades, for example—if you're looking for a variety of experiences. Or, immerse yourself fully in the culture and archaeological sites of one or two larger isles, such as Rhodes and Crete. Let these five itineraries inspire you.

2 Weeks in the Greek Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In two weeks, you can experience the highlights of several Greek islands for a variety of relaxing, educational, and exciting experiences. Consider pairing Rhodes with Crete and Corfu, or touring a few lesser-known Cycladic isles like Tinos, Ios, and Syros. You can also choose a more immersive experience by sticking to only two islands—Naxos and Santorini, for example, offer more than enough active adventures and cultural experiences to fill 14 extraordinary days.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 5 Days

If your goal is to ski the best destinations in the world, you can't miss Argentina. On this epic winter holiday, you'll arrive in Buenos Aires and learn about the city's culture and history on a walking tour. Next, you'll travel to the southern lakeside retreat of Bariloche where you'll hit the slopes and enjoy the best ski conditions in the nation.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 6 Days

Any list of the world's best ski locales must include Argentina's southern Lake District. This is the gateway to Patagonia, and on an unforgettable six-day vacation, you'll ski the mountains around the beautiful alpine resort town of Bariloche. As an added bonus, you'll kick off the journey with city tours of Buenos Aires.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 8 Days

Enjoy a ski holiday in Argentina's famous Lake District for eight days. Better yet, combine your winter fun with other activities around the high-energy capital of Buenos Aires. This includes city tours of Buenos Aires' most historic sights capped with dinner and a tango show—plus a day trip to the colorful river town of Tigre.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 9 Days

On this nine-day ski holiday, you'll jet from Buenos Aires to Argentina's southern lakeside retreat of Bariloche, home to the best skiing in the nation. Then you'll venture further south into Patagonia, where you'll sail the same waters as Charles Darwin and walk with Magellanic penguins. The trip ends with a return to Buenos Aires for a live tango show before catching your flight back home.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 11 Days

This 11-day holiday is more than a ski vacation—it's a collection of incredible experiences in Argentina. It begins in Buenos Aires with tango shows and a day trip to a beautiful river town. From there you'll spend a couple days skiing in Bariloche before journeying deep into Patagonia where you'll walk with Magellanic penguins among other outdoor adventures.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 12 Days

Over 11 days enjoy an unforgettable ski holiday in Argentina. Before hitting the slopes you'll enjoy tours of Buenos Aires plus river trips up the Río de la Plata and an excursion to a working cowboy ranch. Then you'll fly to Bariloche for a few days of skiing before traveling even further south to Tierra del Fuego where you'll walk among Magellanic penguins.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 13 Days

With nearly two weeks you can enjoy an incredible ski vacation in Argentina's Patagonia region. This itinerary also includes excursions around Buenos Aires, such as visiting a working cattle ranch for a traditional BBQ. As if that isn't enough, after hitting the slopes you'll journey further south to Ushuaia where you'll sail the Beagle Channel and walk with penguins.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 14 Days

This active two-week adventure includes some of the best activities in Patagonia. It's one part ski holiday and one part nature excursion that begins with city tours of Buenos Aires. Afterward, you'll travel to Bariloche for a few days of skiing before ending up in Tierra del Fuego for treks to glaciers, hikes in national parks, and trips up the Beagle Channel to visit a penguin colony. 

Buenos Aires, Mendoza, & Iguazú - 14 Days

Come to Argentina and over 14 days discover not only the nation's cities but its mountains, vineyards, and jungle waterfalls as well. Naturally, this holiday kicks off in the capital of Buenos Aires with a live tango show and city tours. You'll then travel east to Mendoza for wine tastings and horseback rides followed by a trip to the far north and Iguazú Falls.

Buenos Aires & Mendoza - 8 Days

This active adventure covers two of Argentina's most desirable destinations: the sleepless capital of Buenos Aires and the relaxed Mendoza, whose surrounding vineyards stretch out to the Andes. Over eight days you'll partake in various activities including a walking tour, tango class, wine tasting, hiking, river rafting, and ziplining. You'll even take a day trip to a working gaucho (cowboy) ranch and enjoy a traditional Argentine asado (BBQ).

Buenos Aires & Mendoza - 9 Days

If you want a vacation that combines fine food and drink with adventurous outdoor excursions, this nine-day itinerary is for you. It begins in Buenos Aires where you'll learn the art of the tango and visit a working ranch for a traditional BBQ. Then you're off to Mendoza, where on top of wine tours you'll also enjoy mountain hikes, whitewater rafting, and zip-line adventures.

Buenos Aires & Mendoza - 10 Days

Over 10 days you'll enjoy all the famous sights and flavors that define Argentina. It starts with a tango show in Buenos Aires followed by a dinner-party cooking class and a day trip to a working ranch for a traditional BBQ. Then you'll fly east to the wine capital of Argentina, Mendoza, where you'll enjoy tasting tours as well as mountain treks plus a horseback-riding trip into the Andes.

Buenos Aires & Mendoza - 11 Days

Get ready for 11 days of adventure in Argentina. Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, you'll dive into the culture with a tango dinner show, a cooking class, and a day trip to a working cattle ranch for a traditional BBQ. Then you'll fly east to Mendoza, where you'll tour its famous vineyards, sample the popular Malbec wine, enjoy horseback rides in the foothills, and embark on mountain hikes.

Buenos Aires & Mendoza - 12 Days

Over 12 days you'll immerse yourself in two of Argentina's most handsome cities: Mendoza and Buenos Aires. Besides tours of historic neighborhoods, you'll also take day trips to nearby ranches and boat rides up the Río de la Plata. In Mendoza, you'll partake in wine tours of the area's famous vineyards plus travel by horseback into the Andes Mountains and hike up to incredible viewpoints.

Argentina's Wine Country - 5 Days

In five days you can tour the highlights of Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, plus take an epic wine tour of Mendoza. The nutrient-rich soil around this city in eastern Argentina is the stuff of legend, as it feeds the vineyards that produce the country's premier varietal: Malbec.  Beyond sampling great wine, you'll take a cooking class and learn to prepare authentic Argentine dishes.