Travel Insights

Classic South Africa and Mauritius: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger Safari, & More - 18 Days

Eighteen days takes you through some of the highlights of South Africa and Mauritius on this itinerary.  You'll begin in Cape Town, where you'll tour the wine lands, coastal hot spots like the Cape of Good Hope and neighboring penguin colony, botanic gardens, and more. Head to Johannesburg for a brief glimpse into South African history before you continue to the wilds of Kruger National Park. Conclude on the island of Mauritius, home to famous beaches and other natural attractions.

Classic South Africa and Mauritius: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger Safari, & More - 19 Days

Spend nineteen days making your way through some of South Africa's most distinctive attractions, along with neighbor Mauritius. You'll start off in Cape Town, tasting the wines of neighboring valleys, local specialties on a food tour, fresh air and flora of the Botanic Gardens, and the salt air of the Cape of Good Hope. Head to Johannesburg for an educational experience, then go into the bush in Kruger National Park to watch for the teeming wildlife. Finish your explorations alongside the palm trees on the island of Mauritius.

Classic South Africa and Mauritius: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger Safari, & More - 20 Days

Twenty days give you plenty of time to scope out South Africa and neighboring Mauritius on this trip. You'll start off in Cape Town, your base to pay visits to the winelands, Robben Island, Kirstenbosch Gardens, and the city's culinary scene. Continue to Johannesburg for a cultural cuisine experience, then over to Kruger National Park for a classic safari. Finally, end your trip on the island of Mauritius with tropical tours and plenty of time to relax.

Classic South Africa & Mauritius: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger Safari & More - 21 Days

Take a full three weeks to journey through South Africa and neighboring Mauritius with this travel plan. Week one begins in Cape Town, filled with wine, views, history, and food. Start week two in Johannesburg with history and a traditional-style dinner, then continue to Kruger National Park, searching for wildlife. Fly on to Mauritius to spend your final week exploring the scenery of this tropical island.

Classic South Africa and Mauritius: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger Safari, & More - 22 Days

Twenty-two days will take you around many of the highlights of both South Africa and Mauritius. You'll start in Cape Town, experiencing the city from high on Table Mountain or in the trees of Kirstenbosch Gardens, sipping wine in the neighboring vineyards, and strolling through the streets. Stop in Johannesburg to deepen your knowledge of South African history, then go wild on safari in Kruger National Park. Fly off to Mauritius for some sunny island time complete with rum tastings, gardens, and a tea route tour.

Classic South Africa and Mauritius: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger Safari, & More - 23 Days

If you've got 23 days, why not try to meet every animal in South Africa? Start off in Cape Town, where along with the food, wine, and culture, you can also visit a large penguin colony near the Cape of Good Hope. After a brief stop for human history in Johannesburg, head into Kruger National Park to look for the Big 5" and their many companions, along with their injured counterparts at a wildlife rehabilitation center. Conclude your quest on Mauritius, surrounded by sea creatures and the residents of the Giant Tortoises Park.

Classic South Africa and Mauritius: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger Safari, & More - 24 Days

Travel around South Africa and Mauritius for two dozen days on this trip plan. Begin in Cape Town, casually consuming both the coastline views and culinary and cultural features of the city. Jaunt off to Johannesburg, then keep going to Kruger National Park for a safari through the stunning scenery and scads of wildlife. Then end your trip on Mauritius, basking in the balmy island breezes and blue waters.

Classic South Africa and Mauritius: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Kruger Safari, & More - 25 Days

You've got plenty of time to explore South Africa and neighboring Mauritius on this expansive 25-day itinerary. Start off in Cape Town for an introduction to the country via food and wine tours and natural attractions, then stop to experience the stories of Johannesburg. From there you'll continue up to Kruger National Park for four days on safari. A brief second stop in Johannesburg will lead you to the island of Mauritius, where you'll wrap up your trip amid its luxury resort beaches and lush greenery.

Best of Dalmatia: Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar, & Split - 9 Days

Experience the best of the southern Dalmatian coast with this cultural and active 9-day itinerary. Starting in historic Dubrovnik, you'll work your way to the islands of Korčula and Hvar, before ending your trip in the ancient coastal city of Split. Along the way, you'll paddle to the nearby Pakleni Islands, sail to the famed waters of the Blue Cave and Vis Island, and tour unique points of interest on Brač Island.

Paris, Bordeaux & the Loire Valley - 10 Days

Spend 10 memorable days celebrating the splendor of French wine, history, and gastronomy. Zip around France by train, stopping to marvel at Bordeaux's neoclassical architecture and taste the vintages at world-class vineyards. Next is the Loire Valley and its array of medieval castles dotting the countryside, followed by a showstopping tour of Paris, where highlights like Notre Dame and the Louvre await.

Best of Dalmatia: Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar & Split - 8 Days

Discover the sights and delights of the southern Dalmatian coast on this eight-day itinerary highlighting Dubrovnik, Korcula, Hvar, and Split. This tour will guide you through stunning coastal towns at a comfortable pace as well as take you on excursions to nearby islands, the popular Krka National Park, and historic Sibenik. You'll kayak off the coast of Dubrovnik, bike to Korcula Island, and tour the iridescent blue waters of Biševo Island's famed Blue Cave.

Everest Base Camp in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is the most popular month for trekkers to visit Nepal. Conditions are pretty reliable, with crisp, rain-free skies offering excellent mountain views. Crowds are at their peak, however, and the Everest Base Camp Trek is the most popular in the country. Advance planning—as far enough in advance as possible—is important when traveling to the Everest region in October.

Best of Dalmatia: Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar, & Split - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary covers the highlights of the Dalmatian coast in a short amount of time, combining diverse cultural exploration with a few outdoor adventures. You'll have private historical tours of the ancient cities of Dubrovnik and Split, as well as sail around the Pakleni Islands and cycle through some of the best local vineyards of Korčula.

Best of Dalmatia: Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar, & Split - 6 Days

Visit the highlights of Croatia's famous Dalmatian coast. Begin in Dubrovnik, heading to the islands of Korčula and Hvar next, before ending your trip in the vibrant city of Split, spending an extra day in Hvar to sail to the nearby Pakleni islands. Along the way, you will explore medieval towns, discover baroque architecture, and visit ancient Roman ruins.

Explore Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, & Hiroshima - 12 Days

This 12-day trip combines the best of Japan's major cities, historic places, and natural areas. You'll explore Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, as well as to the beautiful mountainside town of Nikko and the relaxing hot springs of Hakone. Enjoy everything Japan has to offer, including its culture, art, temples and shrines, and tasty, traditional cuisine.

Essential Colombia: Bogotá, Cartagena, & Coffee Country - 9 Days

During this eight-day trip to Colombia, plan to visit some of the best-known parts of the country. First, stroll the capital city of Bogotá before heading to the small, colorful town of Villa de Leyva. Then, visit a coffee farm in Armenia and learn all about the crop. The journey ends with a tour of the historic shipping port of Cartagena, where you can enjoy excellent food and vibrant nightlife.

10 Easy Himalayan Viewpoints in Nepal: Best Mountain Vistas with No Trekking Required

Nepal is famous for its mountains, and every visitor will want to catch a glimpse. While high-altitude trekking is the best way to experience the Himalayan peaks in all their awe-inspiring grandeur, it's not the only way to get great views. Check out these easily-reachable spots with Himalayan vistas, from preserved Newari villages to hillside cable cars and holy Hindu pilgrimage sites.

Everest Base Camp in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

As the monsoon rains die down by mid-to-late September, the conditions are right for trekking in Nepal again. Although lingering humidity may obscure some mountain vistas, there's still a chance to catch impressive views early in the morning. Plus, the popular Everest Base Camp trail is less busy in September than later in the autumn season.

15 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have 15 days to spend in Costa Rica, take your time exploring the country—see the best of multiple national parks, get off the beaten path with an interest-driven trip like birding or cycling. Road-trip around the country, hike through rainforests and snorkel around coral reef, mix adventure sports with luxurious spa treatments, and more, with these unique itinerary ideas.

Everest Base Camp in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

March is the beginning of spring, one of Nepal's two peak seasons of the year. While temperatures in the mountains are still likely to be cold, and snow may still be a problem in some places, routes will begin thawing out. Trekkers hit the trails in larger numbers again in March, and there are many good reasons to do so. Here's what you need to know about trekking to Everest Base Camp in March.

Everest Base Camp in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

February continues the off-season for trekking in Nepal, with colder temperatures hanging around and fewer visitors throughout the country. If you're very well prepared for snow and cold temperatures, the clear views and quiet trails make February an appealing time to trek in the Everest region—and even all the way to Everest Base Camp.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 9 Days

Experience Sicily's coastal cities, Sicilian-baroque towns, and the remote Aeolian Islands with this 9-day circuit from Catania. Start in Milazzo and discover the ruins of Lipari and the black-sand beaches of Stromboli before picking up your rental and driving to elegant Taormina. Learn to prepare traditional Sicilian fare in a cooking class in Taormina, navigate narrow and winding lanes and alleys in Syracuse's historic Ortygia, and take in the embellished architecture of charming Noto.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 10 Days

Discover the highlights of Sicily with this 10-day loop of the island, featuring three nights on two of the Aeolian Islands as well as time spent in Palermo, the regional capital, and historic Syracuse. You'll witness Stromboli's spectacular pyrotechnic display of red and orange lava, take a passeggiata along Cefalù's seaside promenade, and enjoy traditional Sicilian fare in a rustic trattoria in Syracuse's historic core. Explore historic Norman castles, ancient Greek temples, and Roman amphitheaters, and enjoy the impressive baroque architecture of lively Catania.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary features a perfect mix of culture, history, adventure, and relaxation. Explore ancient Greek and Roman cities, medieval hilltop towns dotted with ornate baroque buildings, and coastal ramparts. Begin in Sicily's regional capital of Palermo and drive your way around the Italian island to end in Catania. You'll visit stunning landscapes, like Trapani's historic salt pans, sip fortified wine in charming Marsala,  and dine on fresh seafood in sophisticated Taormina.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 9 Days

Enjoy cultural and historical experiences on this 9-day circuit of Sicily beginning in the regional capital of Palermo, a cultural melting pot, and ending in lively Catania. Along the way, you'll visit stunning landscapes, like the limestone cliffs of Scala dei Turchi, roam ancient Greek and Roman ruins at Agrigento and Syracuse, and learn to cook a traditional Sicilian meal in Taormina.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 11 Days

Enjoy this 11-day itinerary from Catania to explore the Aeolian Islands before picking up your rental car and continuing to circle Sicily. Starting with the regional capital of Palermo, you'll dive into its colorful history and impressive architecture on a city tour, then discover the ridgetop temples of Agrigento and the Greek and Roman ruins of Syracuse, capping off the trip with a hike up Mount Etna.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 12 Days

This 12-day grand tour of Sicily is a perfect mix of culture and adventure and includes four nights on the Aeolian Islands. Beginning and ending in Catania, you'll discover historic ruins on Lipari, soak in a mud bath on Vulcano, and go on a sunset hike of Stromboli before picking up your rental car in Milazzo. Tour Palermo, the regional capital, wander amid the impressive Greek temples in Agrigento, and enjoy a passeggiata along Syracuse's seaside promenade in Ortygia.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 13 Days

Perfectly blending culture and history with adventure, this 13-day tour starts in the regional capital of Palermo and takes you to three of the Aeolian Islands. You'll pick up your rental car and check out the popular Lungomare beach in Cefalù, discover the impressive Norman-Byzantine Monreale Cathedral, and wander amid the ridgetop temples in Agrigento. From there, you'll explore the tightly woven network of narrow and winding alleys in Ortygia, hike Mount Etna, Europe's largest volcano, and end your trip in Catania, Sicily's next largest city.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 14 Days

Spend two weeks delving into Sicily's historic and cultural highlights on this complete itinerary. Discover remote island settlements on Stromboli, meander and climb the narrow laneways and staircases in Modica, Ragusa Ibla, and Scicli,  and dine on fresh seafood in sophisticated Taormina. You'll begin and end in lively Catania and spend four nights on the Aeolian Islands before picking up your rental car and touring the Italian island from Palermo to Taormina, with Cefalù, Agrigento, and Syracuse in between.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 15 Days

Explore Sicily's highlights, including four days on three of the Aeolian Islands, on this 15-day itinerary. Starting from Catania, you'll head to Milazzo and on to Lipari, Vulcano, and Stromboli to relax in mud baths and on black sand beaches, and to hike the Stromboli volcano. Visit Palermo, the regional capital before checking out the Greek and Roman ruins of Agrigento and Syracuse and ending the trip with a cooking class in the elegant seaside town of Taormina.

Paris & South of France - 7 Days

This weeklong itinerary splits its time between the French Riviera and the City of Lights for a great introduction to France. Starting in Nice, you'll explore on your own before a local guide shows you around Monaco, Cannes, and Antibes (to name a few). Then, fly to Paris where you'll cruise along the Seine, skip the line at Versailles, and summit the Eiffel Tower—at sunset!—to complete the adventure.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour with Aeolian Islands - 16 Days

Experience the highlights of Sicily on this in-depth tour. Beginning and ending in Catania, you'll cover the Italian island as well as spend some time exploring the impressive Aeolian Islands. You'll visit ancient Greek, Roman, and Norman ruins, medieval fortressed towns dotted with ornate baroque buildings and stunning beaches. Discover remote island settlements on Stromboli, meander and climb the narrow laneways and staircases in Modica, Ragusa Ibla, and Scicli,  and dine on fresh seafood in sophisticated Taormina.

1 Week in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Spain, you can take a fast-paced trip to experience Spain's top cities, Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Or dive deeper into one region by sampling the legendary cuisine of the Basque Country, laze on Mediterranean beaches, tour Madrid, or enjoy some unique culture in the southern Andalusia region. Below we list five different itineraries that show you how.

Highlights of Colombia: Cities, Coast, & Colonial Highlands - 15 Days

Visit Colombia's cities, countryside, and coast on this comprehensive tour. Visit charming colonial towns like Barichara and Villa de Leyva, the modern metropolitan city of Medellín, and the colorful village of Guatape. Visit a working coffee farm and learn the entire process that goes into your morning cup. Once you reach the coast, you'll spend a few days exploring Cartagena and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Rosario Islands.

Highlights of Colombia: Cities & the Caribbean Coast - 16 Days

This classic Colombia itinerary starts in Bogotá and then travels north to the Caribbean. Along the route, you'll visit famous salt mines and charming colonial towns like Barichara and Villa de Leyva, with a couple of days to explore the modern metropolitan city of Medellín. Once you reach the coast, you'll spend a few days exploring Cartagena before relaxing on the pristine beaches of the San Bernardo Islands.

Highlights of Colombia: Cities, Caribbean Coast, & Tayrona National Park - 15 Days

Perfect for first-timers, this classic Colombian itinerary starts in the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá and then travels north to the Caribbean Sea. Along the route, you'll visit the rolling green hills and colorful colonial houses of the coffee region. Once you reach the coast, you'll spend a few days exploring Tayrona National Park before heading to the romantic inner-walled city of Cartagena and jetting off to the San Bernardo Islands.

Luxury Colombia Eco-Adventure: Amazon Rainforest & Pacific Coast - 15 Days

This high-end itinerary starts in the capital of Bogotá before heading deep into the heart of the mighty Amazon River—from here, you'll head out on a series of unforgettable days via foot, canoe and other small boats. Then, fly to Medellín to explore the history and vibrant modern culture of the city before flying to the Pacific Coast, a dense rainforest where you'll explore tiny villages and partake in a variety of activities including hiking and soaking in hot springs.

Explore Japan: Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone, & Kyoto - 10 Days

Along with two major cities–modern Tokyo and traditional Kyoto–this itinerary also takes you to the beautiful mountainside areas of Nikko and Hakone. The former is a place of much spiritual significance, and the latter is one of the best areas in the country to experience the Japanese hot springs. A mixture of old-meets-new Japan, this trip has all you need to experience multiple sides of the country.

Explore Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, & Kyoto - 7 Days

This weeklong trip to Japan packs in plenty of exploration, so you can discover a good amount of the country’s culture and history. Experience life in bustling Tokyo, and then immerse yourself in a slower way of living among the mountains and temples of Kyoto. In between your visit to both major cities, you’ll get to relax, kick back, and soak in the rejuvenating hot springs of Hakone.

Tokyo & Kyoto Cultural Adventure - 5 Days

This short but sweet five-day trip to Japan is filled with cultural experiences. Covering two major cities, Tokyo and Kyoto, the adventure takes you to see two completely different sides of Japan. In Tokyo, you’ll experience modern art in Odaiba and dine at Robot Restaurant. In Kyoto, you’ll learn about ancient Japanese traditions and geisha culture. Try your hand at sushi-making, then tour some of the country's most famous shrines and temples before the trip comes to a close.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 8 Days

Featuring a combination of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this eight-day self-drive tour of Sicily will bring you to the regional capital of Palermo, the Greek temple ruins of Agrigento, and the brilliant Baroque laneways and staircases of Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Scicli. Marvel at the impressive Norman-Byzantine details of Monreale Cathedral, hike the slopes of Mount Etna and take in the breathtaking scenery in Savoca and Forza D'Agrò.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 7 Days

Discover Sicily's historic and scenic highlights with this seven-day self-drive itinerary. Starting in the regional capital of Palermo, you'll spend time discovering the Norman-Byzantine Monreale Cathedral before cutting across the island to explore the Greek temple ruins of Agrigento. Cap off the trip with four nights in Catania, the perfect access point to the Sicilian-Baroque cities of Ragusa Ibla, Modica, and Scicli, as well as the historic Syracuse and the elegant seaside town of Taormina.

Provence Road Trip: Food, Wine & Culture - 7 Days

Get behind the wheel in the South of France during this weeklong road trip through the Provence region. Starting in Marseille, you'll swim in the Mediterranean, tour cafés and vineyards in Aix en Provence, and explore a range of picturesque hilltop villages in the Luberon. At the end of each day, hang your hat on some of the most charming hotels in France while choosing between exquisite dining options.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 12 Days

This complete 12-day self-drive tour covers Sicily's best, from cultural stops in baroque-infused cities to the exploration of ancient Greek and Roman temples and archaeological parks. Explore medieval hilltop towns, lively markets, ancient ruins, and old Norman castles. You'll sip fortified wine in Marsala, hike the slopes of active Mount Etna, and relax on Cefalù's inviting golden-sand Lungomare beach.

Sicily Highlights Self-Drive Tour - 11 Days

Enjoy this 11-day self-drive itinerary around the Italian island where you'll begin in Palermo and end your stay in Catania. Along the way, stop to explore medieval hilltop towns and baroque cities, wander amid ancient Greek and Roman ruins, hike active Mount Etna, and choose from a number of stunning beaches along the coast. Catch a sunset over the Trapani salt ponds, sample fortified wine in charming Marsala, and learn to cook a 4-course Sicilian meal in Taormina.

Explore Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto, & Hiroshima - 14 Days

This 14-day trip takes you to the major cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, where you'll experience a mix of modern culture and timeworn traditions. You'll also venture to the temples and shrines in Nikko and a hot springs retreat in Hakone. The last leg takes you to Nara, known for its free-roaming deer, and Hiroshima, where you'll witness the flourishing rebuild of one of Japan's most historically significant towns.

Moroccan Tour: Atlantic Coast, Imperial Cities & Sahara Desert - 13 Days

On this 13-day trip plan, explore all aspects of Morocco—the coastal city of Essaouria, the imperial city of Few, and the Merzouga area of the Sahara Desert. Beginning and ending in Marrakesh, stroll the bustling square of Jemma El Fna, then visit Hassan Mosque II in Casablanca, with one of the tallest towers in the world. Hike in the scenic Rif Mountains and get lost in the blue-hued city of Chefchaouen. Enjoy delicious Moroccan cuisine and culture along the way.

Best of Morocco: Casablanca to Marrakesh - 11 Days

From the blue medina of Chefchoauen to the red dunes of the Sahara, this colorful, 11-day journey through Morocco has it all. The trip begins in Casablanca, home to one of the tallest mosque towers in the world, and then takes you to Fez, with its ancient, well-preserved square and unique tanneries. Enjoy camping under the stars in the Erg Chebbi Dunes, and take in the lively culture in Marrakesh.

Grand Moroccan Tour - 13 Days

This 13-day tour covers a wide range sites and experiences that, together, provide a well-rounded view of Morocco. The tour begins with the imperial cities of the northern area (Casablanca, Rabat, Tanger, Fez, and Meknes), and also includes the charming blue-painted town of Chefchaouen. The trip continues toward the Merzouga area of the Sahara, with the classic Erg Chebbi sand dunes all around. Then, stop in vibrant Marrakech and experience its lively square before heading back to Casablanca to depart.

Bogotá, Medellín, & the Pacific Coast - 13 Days

Colombia's wild and undiscovered region of Chocó on the Pacific coast takes center stage in this 13-day itinerary. The adventure starts in the country's capital city and nearby national parks. From there, visit Medellín, take in the dazzling views from a hike around lakeside Guatapé, and taste Colombia's coffee at the source. End in Nuquí, a dense rainforest where you'll spend three days exploring tiny villages and partaking in outdoor activities.