BOSTON –Following a highly successful pilot, Road Scholar announces its ‘Age Well’ lecture series, provided online for free, will become an ongoing offering among the organization’s robust online course curriculum. The not-for-profit world leader in educational experiences for older adults launched the Age Well initiative to provide expert-led guidance on how to navigate the challenges and opportunities of life’s later years, from health and wellness to social connection and emotional resilience.
“Preparing for the changes that come with older age, particularly the time of life we call the ‘Fourth Age,’ can be challenging,” said James Moses, President and CEO of Road Scholar. “We launched this lecture series to offer guidance and practical advice.”
Over the course of six pilot lectures in spring 2025, these free, one-hour lectures attracted thousands of attendees eager to explore health, wellness, and longevity through the lens of education and community. The series has already had a powerful impact.
“I recommend this to everyone because the advice and recommendations prepare you for the negatives and positives of aging and how to cope,” said participant Terri Lee Knutson of Orange Park, Florida. “I wish I had known this information when I was preparing for retirement. I sign up for all the Aging Well programs as soon as they appear.”
Topics have included traveling with dementia, aging in place, relocating in retirement, technology that supports aging, and more. The program’s overwhelming popularity has inspired Road Scholar to make “Age Well” a permanent part of its curriculum. They will offer two free live online lectures each month, starting in January.
“The response has been profound. We know these lectures provide vital information for everyone preparing for or helping others navigate this stage of life,” said Moses. “We all seek to live vibrant, purposeful lives, and these ‘Age Well’ lectures are helping people achieve that aim.”
The inspiration for “Age Well” was deeply personal for Moses, as he cared for his mother who lived to be 101.
“Being a caregiver myself, I experienced firsthand the difficulty of navigating the later years of life— both for aging adults and their loved ones,” said Moses. “It made me acutely aware of the need to help people make this fourth stage of life both joyful and meaningful. Road Scholar’s mission is to inspire adults to keep learning, exploring, and connecting. ‘Age Well’ brings that mission to a new stage of life helping people prepare for and embrace life’s fourth age with wisdom and confidence.”
Exploring Life’s Fourth Age Through Education The “Age Well” series invites participants to think of life as a journey — one that benefits from curiosity, preparation, and lifelong learning. Expert-led lectures cover topics including:
Health and wellness strategies to maintain physical and mental vitality
Building emotional resilience and finding purpose through life’s transitions
Fostering connection and community to combat loneliness
Leveraging technology and accessibility tools for independence and aging in place
Lectures are led by notable experts in the field of aging and gerontology, like Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger, gerontologist and caregiving advocate, and Catherine Sanderson, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology at Amherst College and author of “The Positive Shift: Mastering Mindset to Improve Happiness, Health, and Longevity.”
Beyond the Lectures: A Growing Community To extend the learning beyond the virtual classroom, Road Scholar has launched a companion online Age Well Discussion Group on Facebook as well as an Age Well Blog Series. A newsletter and bookshop will follow! These spaces allow participants to continue their conversations, share experiences, and connect with others who are also navigating the aging journey.
To learn more and enroll in the free Age Well online lecture series, please visit www.roadscholar.org/agewell.
Not-for-profit Road Scholar is the world leader in educational experiences for older adults, serving 6.5 million lifelong learners since 1975. Road Scholar programs combine travel and education to provide experiential learning opportunities for adults over 50, featuring an extraordinary range of topics, formats, activity levels, and locations—on all seven continents and throughout the United States. From immersive travel to engaging online learning, Road Scholar inspires adults to keep exploring, discovering, and growing through the joy of lifelong learning.
The American Society of Travel Advisors, a leading travel trade association, is urging the Trump Administration to reconsider its travel bans.
“Every administration has the responsibility to protect national security, and that duty should never be taken lightly,” stated ASTA President & CEO Zane Kerby. “But sweeping, country-wide travel bans are a blunt instrument accompanied by sweeping, unintended consequences—hindering legitimate business, discouraging visitors who strengthen our economy while simultaneously discouraging Americans from traveling abroad.
“Travel bans, and simply the threat of such bans, don’t just disrupt inbound travel, they risk diplomatic strain and create uncertainty that ripples throughout the travel industry. That uncertainty harms the businesses of our travel advisor members, 98 percent of which are small businesses comprising an essential piece of the U.S. economy.
“ASTA acknowledges the real need for effective visa compliance and traveler vetting, and we hope our leaders will work collaboratively with the nations involved to resolve those issues without cutting off entire populations. We urge U.S. policymakers to pursue balanced, thoughtful solutions that uphold both our safety and our ideals while allowing the travel industry to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.
“Safe and secure travel is not just good policy. It is the foundation of international cooperation, economic growth and mutual understanding.”
On June 17, 2025, the Administration demanded action from 36 additional countries within 60 days to avoid a potential “travel ban” enacted by the U.S. government. This follows a full ban on 12 countries and restrictions on seven others, effective June 9.
The full list contains numerous destinations important both for leisure and business travel. Travel bans are intended to impact those coming in—but can trigger reciprocal restrictions, meaning U.S. citizens may find themselves unwelcome abroad. Even without formal retaliation, these actions can make Americans hesitant to travel to targeted countries, chilling outbound demand and complicating global travel planning.
ASTA fundamentally believes that the U.S. government has both a right and obligation to keep our country safe, but also that safe and secure travel are foundational to the world and the U.S. travel industry.
ASTA strongly restates this position and encourages policymakers to seek solutions that balance security with the fundamental rewards of travel—understanding, cultural exchange and economic growth.
The U.S. travel industry contributed $2.6 trillion to the economy last year and supported more than 20 million jobs. It also contributed more than $585 billion in tax revenue. As of May, before the latest round of tariffs and travel bans, Trump’s actions were estimated to cost $13 billion in lost receipts from international visitors.
Travel Advisors Signal Growing Concern Amid Shifting International Travel Landscape
Meanwhile, ASTA released findings from its June 2025 follow-up survey of U.S. travel advisors, highlighting a noticeable shift in sentiment and business strategies compared to similar data gathered in March 2025. The surveys explored the impact of recent federal executive actions, travel bans and tariffs on the travel industry.
“Our members expressed their views plainly in our most recent national survey,” said Zane Kerby, ASTA President and CEO. “They are seeing hesitation in their clients, cancellations in their bookings and fear in their conversations. They are shouldering the burden of misinformation and working overtime to educate and protect the travelers who count on them most. For some, business is still thriving. For others, survival demands a pivot toward new markets, safer regions, more flexible pricing and above all, clear-eyed strategy.”
The full results of the survey are proprietary and an ASTA Premium Member benefit along with an accompanying white paper compiled by ASTA staff. The efforts are intended to help guide industry leaders during this time of uncertainty.
“In the travel industry, uncertainty is poison,” Kerby said. “We know that when consumers feel unsure about the state of the economy, about global conflict, about whether they’ll be welcome at their destination—they pause. They wait. Sometimes, they cancel their travel plans altogether. In that moment, our members who are the backbone of the travel economy pay the price.”
Survey results show a moderate but clear downward shift in consumer demand between March and June. While the proportion of agencies reporting a significant drop in demand held steady, those noting a slight decrease rose from 32.5% to 38.8%. This reflects a broadening impact across consumer segments.
The perception of policy-driven disruption also intensified. In June, more advisors pointed to both tariffs (27.9%) and travel bans (12.4%) as key factors affecting their business, up from 23.1% and 8.3%, respectively, in March.
Postponements of international travel climbed to nearly 59% in June, up from 49% in March. While outright cancellations saw a slight decrease, this shift suggests that while travelers haven’t given up on international trips entirely, they’re increasingly opting to wait and see.
International leisure travel remains the hardest hit segment of advisor business, with 69.2% of advisors citing it as the most affected category—up a striking 9.2 percentage points from March.
Respondents across both surveys voiced concerns over economic instability, misinformation and fears related to international safety and immigration policy. However, tone and urgency shifted notably from March to June. Many advisors are “anxiously reactive,” noting the mounting sense of burnout, client frustration and realignment of business models.
Themes in commentary included concerns about international perception of U.S. travelers, client hesitations rooted in political rhetoric and economic headwinds impacting discretionary spending.
“Looking ahead to the rest of 2025, travel interest is still high, but so are the potential risks and roadblocks,” said Michael Schottey, ASTA Vice President of Membership, Marketing and Communications. “Understanding what’s changing and how agencies are responding is key. ASTA is here to support that process and ensure the travel advisor community stays informed, prepared and connected.”
Gondwana Ecotours’10-day Great Migration Serengeti Safari offers travelers a chance to witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration while actively contributing to the preservation of local communities and the environment.
(Homer, Alaska) — Gondwana Ecotours is proud to announce its 10-day Great Migration Serengeti Safari, an extraordinary journey into the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness. This adventure transcends the typical safari experience, offering travelers a chance to witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration while actively contributing to the preservation of local communities and the environment. This tour is designed for those who seek not just adventure, but a meaningful connection with the land and its people.
“This Great Migration Serengeti Safari is designed to minimize its environmental footprint, featuring activities that operate sustainably and contribute to the preservation of the Serengeti’s delicate ecosystem,” said Gondwana Ecotours Founder Jared Sternberg. “We work closely with local partners who share their commitment to environmental stewardship, and travelers are educated on the importance of cultural and environmental stewardship, empowering them to become responsible ambassadors for the planet. This safari is more than a wildlife spectacle; it’s a transformative experience that demonstrates how travel can be a force for good.”
A cornerstone of this safari, priced starting at $7,495 per person, is theexclusive access it provides to a Maasai community where Gondwana Ecotours is the only operator visiting. This isn’t a staged cultural performance, but an authentic opportunity to engage with a traditional way of life. Travelers are welcomed into the village, where they’ll learn about the Maasai’s deep connection to the land, their enduring traditions, and their vital role in local conservation efforts. This immersive experience fosters genuine understanding and respect, creating lasting memories and a profound appreciation for Maasai culture.
“Guests don’t just witness the Great Migration—they gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the Maasai people, wildlife, and the Serengeti ecosystem,” said Sternberg. “As part of the experience, Gondwana donates on behalf of each traveler to Friends of Serengeti, which funds initiatives that address conservation, vocational programs, human-wildlife conflict, and habitat protection.”
Gondwana Ecotours’ commitment to responsible tourism goes beyond cultural immersion. The company is dedicated to giving back, ensuring that every journey contributes to the well-being of the communities visited. A significant portion of tour revenue is directed towards carefully selected local nonprofits that support sustainable development and conservation initiatives. Furthermore, Gondwana prioritizes partnerships with local businesses, micro-businesses, and nonprofits that champion environmental practices, fostering a network of sustainable tourism.
“From eliminating 600+ single-use plastic bottles per trip to working with a locally owned operator that pays above-average wages, every element of this tour is designed to reduce impact and uplift local communities,” said Sternberg.
Trip Highlights:
EXPERIENCE Tanzania’s most famous and diverse National Parks – from beautiful bushlands to the endless expanse of the Serengeti plains.
EXPLORE Ngorongoro Crater on an early morning game drive, home to Africa’s densest lion population and some of the last black rhinos in the world.
WITNESS one of the most spectacular mass migrations on earth!
VISIT the Maasai, one of Africa’s most famous, friendly and unique tribes. Experience their culture, learn their traditions, and sing and dance with them.
VIEW wildlife from a guaranteed window seat in our pop-top Land Cruiser. Your expert safari guides will take you off the main roads looking for cheetahs, leopards, lions, elephants, and more.
SAVOR delicious meals at our lodges and picnic lunches in picturesque locations such as under massive Baobab trees
Gondwana Ecotours specializes in small-group, guided tours to bucket-list destinations around the world. Sustainability is front of mind, and we are constantly working towards reducing our environmental footprint, both globally and locally. Our itineraries are carefully curated to include unique and fun activities that are grounded in meaningful encounters with nature, wildlife, and local culture, and that are physically suitable for most travelers. Touch down with a bush plane in a remote National Park to safely observe grizzlies in the wild. Encounter some of the last remaining mountain gorillas while your visit contributes to their preservation. Watch the Northern Lights dance in the sky with an Aurora Guide who can help explain the phenomenon and capture the moment. Witness the Great Migration on a Safari in Tanzania guided by local safari guides. Carefully walk on an incredible growing glacier in Patagonia. Explore the magnificent fjords of Western Norway.
The season of renewal is here, and with it, the perfect opportunity to revitalize your mind and body. Research shows that nature is a powerful stress-reducer and well-being booster. Spring’s mild weather and vibrant scenery make it the ideal time to embrace these benefits. Ready to recharge? Here are 12 travel ideas to inspire your spring rejuvenation.
American Road Trip 2.0: Nothing is more rejuvenating than jumping in your car and heading out on an American road trip, and AdventureGenie is the world’s first AI-powered, end-to-end system for planning one. It offers the most immersive, innovative, and intelligent adventure travel planning tools available. Whether starting from a curated GenieTrip or creating a fully customized and personalized journey from your own ideas, AdventureGenie’s got you covered. https://adventuregenie.com/
Bentonville Biking Adventure: On this six-day family mountain biking tour of Bentonville, Arkansas, guests will have the option to explore over 140 miles of bike trails while staying in a luxurious vacation home equipped with an oasis pool, water slide, hot tub, and a fleet of bikes and tools. Escape Adventures trip leaders will prepare meals and provide itineraries based on age and skill level. Highlights include the Slaughter Pen trail system, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Hobbs State Park, Coler Park and Bella Vista. https://escapeadventures.com/tour/bentonville-mountain-bike-tour/
Yellowstone Fly Fishing: Take an expertly guided float down the Yellowstone River on one of Flying Pig Adventures’ custom rafts while you enjoy the spectacular scenery, the abundant wildlife, and world-class fly fishing. Just outside Yellowstone Park, the upper stretches of the Yellowstone River are lightly fished, but hold large numbers of native cutthroats, rainbows, and brown trout. Private access to the river allows guides to take guests where the fish are without fighting the crowds. https://www.flyingpigrafting.com/yellowstone-fly-fishing
Darwin Discovery Tour: This adventurous 11-day journey in Ecuador combines the incredible Galapagos Islands and Amazon Rainforest. Using Scalesia Galapagos Lodge and Finch Bay Hotel as a base, guests will explore Isabela and Santa Cruz islands, and take a yacht to other nearby islands. Next, visit the Amazon, and from the comfortable Sacha Lodge, head into the jungle on expertly guided tours to discover colorful birds, fascinating reptiles, many monkeys, and an array of other wildlife. https://www.scalesialodge.com/programs/
Turkish Archaeology Cruise: On Peter Sommer Travels’ Cruising to Ephesus tour in Turkey, follow the shores of Caria and Ionia in a traditional gulet, and visit ancient cities with an archaeologist as guide. Starting in Bodrum, explore the remains of the port town of Iasos, the mountaintop sanctuary of Zeus at Labraunda, the huge Temple of Apollo at Didyma, the vast center of Miletus, the wooded setting of Priene, and magnificent Ephesus, with its expansive theater, ornate library and remarkable Terrace Houses. https://www.petersommer.com/tours/ephesus-cruise-turkey
Alaska Northern Lights: On Gondwana Ecotours’ Alaska Northern Lights Adventure, guests will get a dose of local culture by day and photograph the Aurora Borealis under the massive Alaskan sky by night. Highlights of the tour include dogsledding through snowy forests, taking curling lessons from locals, enjoying a meal with homesteaders, soaking in a geothermal hot spring, learning how to photograph the Aurora Borealis, snowshoeing on private land, having tea with a family of reindeer herders, and more. https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/northern-lights-tour-fairbanks-alaska/
Machu Picchu Multisport: With Adventure Life, travel from Cusco, Peru, to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, enjoying active excursions and accommodations at lodges along the way. Hike to the ancient Sacsayhuaman and Q’enqo archaeological sites, kayak or paddleboard at Lake Piuray, bike from Maras to Ollantaytambo, go ziplining or horseback riding in the Sacred Valley, then ascend to and tour the Machu Picchu citadel itself. Rains typically taper off by April, before high-season arrives in June. https://www.adventure-life.com/peru/tours/18040/lodge-based-machu-picchu-multisport-adventure
Wine Country Weekend: Just north of San Francisco, the winding Russian River meets the dramatic Pacific coastline, shaping if not sheltering a world all its own. Escape Adventures offers an idyllic three-day road biking tour in this romantic landscape, quilted with a colorful patchwork of old growth redwoods, fruitful vineyards, historic towns, and beautiful gardens. https://escapeadventures.com/tour/napa-valley-weekend-road-bike-tour/
Jackson Hole Tiny House: Wyoming’s Fireside Resort offers 25 luxuriously outfitted tiny house rental units designed by Wheelhaus just a short distance from Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson Hole ski slopes, making it the perfect weekend getaway. https://www.firesidejacksonhole.com
Arizona Ranch Getaway: Visit Rancho de la Osa in Arizona for classic dude ranch activities, and Southwestern color and charm amid spring’s high-desert bloom. Try horseback riding, archery and shooting, or go hiking and birding at neighboring Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge, then enjoy fresh, hearty, and healthy meals highlighting regional cuisine, and spend the night in accommodations once visited by the likes of Zane Grey and Eleanor Roosevelt. https://www.ranchodelaosa.com/
Piedmont Wine + Hiking: The Langa and Roero regions of Piedmont are in one of the most important wine production areas in Italy and received UNESCO World Heritage status in 2014. This Tourissimo hiking tour of Piedmont takes guests to the heart of these regions, over rolling hills covered with endless vineyards, and past ancient castles and hidden hilltop hamlets. Travelers will see how connected the local people are to the land, and how they take pride in everything they produce. https://www.tourissimo.travel/piedmont-barolo-hiking
Big Sky Spring: In Big Sky, Montana, spring can bring adventures ranging from snowy to sunny. Using The Wilson Hotel as your base, ski the slopes of Lone Peak a final time in March and April, then, as the snow melts and temperatures warm in May and June, hike or bike the wildflower meadows and mountains surrounding town, go fly fishing or whitewater rafting on the famed Gallatin River, or explore the natural wonders and wildlife of Yellowstone National Park. https://thewilsonhotel.com/
“In 2025, the travel industry is all about mindful travel, personalization, and creating unforgettable experiences,” statesMaryanne Sparkes, Travel Expert at European Waterways highlighting the biggest trends shaping travel demand for 2025. “With more people looking to connect deeply with the places they visit, tourism providers are stepping up with fresh ideas to match these changing expectations.”
Maryanne flags that mindful tourism will definitely take centerstage in 2025: “Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s become essential in travel. We’re seeing airlines investing in sustainable fuels and working to offset their carbon emissions, which is such an important step. Hotels are also stepping up, with more achieving certifications like LEED and Green Globe, and even entire ‘green resorts’ running on renewable energy while promoting eco-friendly practices.”
“Another big shift is in how people travel. Slow travel is really taking off, with more people choosing longer stays in fewer places to not only reduce their environmental impact but also to truly connect with the local culture. It’s about making travel more meaningful for everyone involved,” she adds.
In addition to this, she also suggests that there will be a rise of boutique and off-the-beaten-path destinations: “With over-tourism putting pressure on major cities, travellers are increasingly turning to lesser-known destinations for more authentic and mindful experiences,” says Maryanne Sparkes. “Places like Albania, Greenland, and Uzbekistan are really having a moment. People are drawn to their raw beauty, unique cultures, and opportunities for immersive, local-focused tourism—whether it’s farm-to-table dining, craft workshops, or guided tours by locals.”.
Sparkes highlights the growing trend of seasonal flexibility as well. “Travellers are also exploring destinations in the off-season, which not only avoids the crowds but often comes with lower costs and a deeper connection to the place.”
The Scottish Highlands, UK: “There’s something magical about experiencing the Highlands by water,” Sparkes shares. “Luxury barge cruises along the Caledonian Canal combine breathtaking views, whisky tastings, and Scotland’s rugged beauty—all from the comfort of a floating boutique hotel.”
The Loire Valley, France: “The Loire Valley is like stepping into a storybook,” Sparkes says. “River cruises along the River Cher reveal enchanting castles, medieval villages, and a history that’s impossible to replicate. Known as ‘The Valley of the Kings of France,’ it’s the perfect destination for those who love history, elegance and cultural depth.”
As Sparkes points out, European Waterways offers an exclusive hotel barge experience in the Loire Valley. “It’s not just about sightseeing—it’s about true immersion. Guests can wander centuries-old streets, explore vibrant markets, and sample local delicacies like world-famous goat cheese and fine wines.”
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast: “Boutique cruises are making Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast even more accessible,” Sparkes adds. “Hidden gems like Vis and Lastovo are ideal for travellers seeking untouched beaches and vibrant local culture. It’s a seafood lover’s paradise and a dream for anyone chasing authenticity.”
Another trend that Maryanne suggests will escalate in 2025 is advances in technology: “Technology is transforming every part of the travel experience, making it smoother, smarter, and more connected,” says Maryanne Sparkes. “Biometric check-ins and digital wallets are taking the hassle out of airports, letting travellers focus on the journey rather than the logistics.
“Even luggage is getting an upgrade—GPS tracking, self-weighing features, and built-in charging ports are becoming the norm, which is a game-changer for peace of mind and convenience,” she adds.
Sparkes also highlights how technology is breaking down cultural barriers. “Real-time AI translation tools are a huge leap forward. They make it so much easier to connect with locals, whether you’re ordering a meal, asking for directions, or just having a chat. It adds a whole new layer of richness to the travel experience.”
Olympic Valley, Calif.— From January 18 to 20, 2025, skiers and snowboarders at Palisades Tahoe are making a difference while enjoying the slopes. During this special three-day event, $99 lift tickets will be available, with 100% of ticket sales going to support Southern California fire relief efforts in partnership with the California Fire Foundation.
Palisades Tahoe, together with Alterra Mountain Company, is amplifying the impact by matching donations dollar-for-dollar, up to $100,000 each. This means that every $99 ticket sold will triple in value, directly helping families and communities rebuild after devastating wildfires.
Ticket Options:
Ikon Base Pass & Session Pass Holders: Purchase $99 all-day lift tickets on January 18 and 19—a great way to ski during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday blackout dates.
Afternoon Tickets: $99 tickets for all ages, valid from 1 PM to 4 PM, available January 18 through 20.
Tickets can be purchased in person at Palisades Tahoe ticket counters.
“This initiative embodies our commitment to giving back,” said Patrick Lacey, PR Manager of Palisades Tahoe. “By partnering with the California Fire Foundation and offering this opportunity to our guests, we’re proud to support relief efforts that will help rebuild lives and strengthen communities impacted by wildfires.”
The California Fire Foundation provides critical support to fire victims, firefighters, and their families. Proceeds from this fundraiser will aid in providing emergency assistance, funding community rebuilding projects, and offering long-term support to those in need.
Make Your Ski Day Count: Grab your gear, hit the slopes, and give back to those affected by wildfires in Southern California. Every turn you take on the mountain will help families and communities recover and thrive.
For more information, visit www.palisadestahoe.com/relief.
Now celebrating its 75th anniversary, marking decades of innovation, history, and legendary mountain experiences, Palisades Tahoe® has been recognized by the Wall Street Journal as the best ski resort in the United States. As Lake Tahoe’s largest premier resort destination, it spans 6,000 skiable acres across eight peaks, connected by the iconic Base to Base Gondola. Renowned for hosting the 1960 Winter Games and being home to Olympic and World Cup athletes, Palisades Tahoe averages 400 inches of annual snowfall, offering Lake Tahoe’s longest ski season. Dubbed the Spring Skiing Capital®, the resort keeps its slopes open through Memorial Day. The Village at Palisades Tahoe is a vibrant year-round hub for events, dining, and shopping. Skiers and riders can explore Palisades Tahoe and beyond with the Ikon Pass, which provides access to over 50+ top ski destinations.
Visit Palisades Tahoe’s website or call 800.403-0206.
The Grand Canyon Railway is using recycled waste vegetable oil as fuel on No. 4960, a steam engine built in 1923. On select days from now through October, this massive steam engine will pull the daily train running from Williams, AZ to South Rim, Grand Canyon.
WILLIAMS, ARIZONA, April 2022 – It sounds counter-intuitive: a 100-year-old steam engine will chug into Grand Canyon National Park to celebrate Earth Day on Saturday, April 22, 2023, but it will showcase how ingenuity can thrive for future generations. The Grand Canyon Railway (GCR) may be the last daily standard gauge U.S. railroad to run steam engines in scheduled regular service – a rare sight and sound to behold.
The Grand Canyon Railway (GCR) is using recycled waste vegetable oil as fuel on No. 4960, a steam engine built in 1923. On select days from now through October, this massive steam engine will pull the daily train running from Williams, AZ to South Rim, Grand Canyon and at no extra cost to the passengers and guests. What saved it from static museum display? Waste vegetable oil (think oil used for French fries and chicken wings and fried shrimp). While such a diet may not be beneficial to the health of most of us, not only does the nearly century old engine run better, but by using recycled fuel (and captured snow melt for water in the boiler where possible) the great machine has a neutral carbon footprint.
As a matter of fact, it is estimated that the Grand Canyon Railway, built and running since 1901, reduces the number of cars in the national park to the tune of around 70,000 per year. Now we’re talking double green vision.
The other ingredient is good old-fashioned ingenuity inspired by the innovation of car mechanics to run vehicles on waste vegetable oil. The Railway strives to utilize biodegradable lubricants on the steam engines wherever possible. GCR is also the first tourism railway in the US to receive ISO 14001 third-party certification of its environmental management system.
For more information about the Grand Canyon Railway, visit thetrain.com or call 1-800-843-8724.
At a time when globetrotters are increasingly choosing eco-friendly trips in an effort to reduce their footprint on earth, Xanterra Travel Collection®, which operates many of the hospitality operations and concessions in and around the national parks, is making inroads to meet this imperative.
These include The Oasis at Death Valley, Glacier National Park Lodges, Cedar Creek Lodge, Grand Canyon National Park Lodges, Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, The Grand Hotel at The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Rocky Mountain National Park, Yellowstone National Park Lodges, and Zion National Park Lodge. Xanterra also owns and operates upscale biking (VBT Bicycling Vacations), walking (Country Walkers), a railway (Grand Canyon Railway), touring (Holiday Vacations), and cruising (Windstar Cruises) companies with itineraries on six continents.
That also brings a responsibility and an obligation to protect the environment while making bucket-list vacations a reality –whether that is riding a mule into the depths of the Grand Canyon to Phantom Ranch, climbing the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu, taking a small-ship cruise through the islands of French Polynesia, or cycling through the Italian countryside.
Here are some of the most innovative, groundbreaking, and just curious ways Xanterra’s travel properties help minimize their impact on the environment and support a cleaner, greener future.
When One Bad Apple Does Good: When do bad apples help our planet? When they’re fed to the famous mules in the Grand Canyon and come out as manure used by local nurseries and farmers. Since 2013, a mule named Vista along with 147 of its fellow park mules have feasted on 31 tons of shriveled apples and other food scraps such as melon rinds, broccoli stalks, and carrot peelings generated by Grand Canyon National Park Lodges restaurants. Not only does that keep the food waste out of landfills, but those hard-working mules also produce up to 2 million pounds of manure per year. Through Operation Shrively Apples, Xanterra has returned tons of food back to the earth by using their beasts of burden to lighten the load we put on our planet.
All Aboard the “French Fry Express”: Hop on the best — and most eco-friendly — way to arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park and help keep 50,000 to 70,000 cars outside of the park each year. Ride the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Ariz., on a scenic 65-mile 2.5-hour route across the Colorado Plateau to the edge of the canyon’s South Rim. But this train does more than just replace those polluting cars, thanks to French fry oil. The big steam engine #4960 turns 100 this year and runs on recycled waste vegetable oil collected from the Grand Canyon’s own restaurants, Instead of using coal or diesel fuel, each locomotive uses about 1,200 gallons of vegetable oil per round-trip journey, significantly reducing the C02 emissions compared to using ultra-low sulfur diesel.
In addition, the train harvests rainwater and snowmelt to operate its steam locomotives, taking advantage of a renewable water resource in this water-stressed area. As a result, it has reduced potable water consumption by more than 1 million gallons to date.
Old Presidents Under Bright Lights: Who better to preside over efforts to reduce greenhouse gases than great visionaries like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln? Just a few years ago, Xanterra built a 975-panel solar carport at Mount Rushmore under the watchful eyes of these past presidents. This structure now generates nearly half the electricity used by the restaurant and gift shop, while 54% comes from a nearby wind farm. Along with buying carbon offsets for the remaining emissions, Mount Rushmore is now a carbon neutral operation.
Sun and Water: The Oasis at Death Valley, a beautiful eco-resort in the middle of the 3.4 million-acre Death Valley National Park, has plenty of sun but not much water. So the property harnesses the power of one while carefully conserving the other. It generates reliable solar energy with the hospitality industry’s largest solar photovoltaic system. And because the park is the driest place in North America (averaging less than two inches of rainfall a year), the resort recycles the precious water from its own natural springs to feed two pools, water the golf course and gardens (planted with native drought-tolerant species), and eventually return it to nature’s watershed. Plus, it reduces the need to water the world’s lowest-elevation golf course by using natural dye on the dormant Bermuda grass in winter.
Pulling Carbon Out of the Big Sky: Feast on sustainably raised beef at the Yellowstone National Park Lodges restaurants and help support native grasslands in a first-of-its-kind project in the U.S. Xanterra helps four ranches outside the park participate in a 209,000-acre project to improve soil health, provide forage for cattle, and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to help reduce the effects of climate change. The project also offsets all the emissions from electricity used at the lodges while restoring a damaged ecosystem and improving biodiversity. All from regenerative ranching practices.
Starry, Starry Nights: Xanterra, along with the National Park Service, helps the stars at night shine big and bright in the Grand Canyon National Park. By reducing light pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, Xanterra preserves views of the dazzling night sky and protects nocturnal animals and ecosystems in the park. Because nearly 2,000 light fixtures have been replaced since 2013 — nearly half by Xanterra — the International Dark-Sky Association recognized Grand Canyon as the International Dark Sky Place of the Year in 2019.
Xanterra uses similar outdoor lighting best practices at The Oasis at Death Valley, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park (which contains Glacier National Park), and Zion National Park, which helped them all become designated International Dark-Sky Parks by the International Dark-Sky Association.
Purple Pipe Majesties: Xanterra’s many national park operations boast some of the most inspiring scenery on Earth: stunning vistas, deep canyons, and desert peaks. But purple plumbing pipes? Yup, they’re used for reclaimed water, one of the key ways to reuse and conserve this precious resource in Grand Canyon National Park. Quite simply, reclaimed water is wastewater that is treated and reused for a variety of purposes, such as drip irrigation and toilet flushing in the lodges, such Grand Canyon’s Bright Angel Lodge. By reusing water rather than pumping it from the nearby springs or aquifer, the Grand Canyon lodges used about 3.6 million gallons of reclaimed water in 2021 and plan to switch another 3.9 million gallons a year from potable to reclaimed within the next two years.
Eat Your Greens While Going Green: When you eat at Xanterra’s 56 restaurants, you can expect food that not only tastes good but does good. That’s because the eateries strive for 70% of food and beverages to be sourced locally (within 500 miles) and sustainably, while reducing chemical additives, saving water, reducing transportation, protecting local ecosystems, treating animals humanely, and reducing waste. Locations such as Zion National Park and Mount Rushmore have even created on-site gardens to provide hyper-local produce and compost waste to enrich the soil and avoid synthetic fertilizers. In fact, in 2021 Xanterra composted 23.5% of its total food waste in five national parks, preventing 90% of it from heading to landfills in Zion alone. Meanwhile, at Glacier National Park, composted food waste nourishes the flower beds at Lake McDonald Lodge and Many Glacier Hotel — a lovely example of beautifying the environment by preserving it.
What’s more, only 23 (out of 650) Certified Green Restaurants in North America hold the coveted, highest 4-star certification. And three of them are Xanterra-operated restaurants in Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and Mount Rushmore (whose Carvers Café is the second greenest restaurant in North America according to the Green Restaurant Association) — thanks to on-site gardens, compostable tableware, water reduction, solar power, recycling, and more.
Using Suds for Suds: Instead of simply recycling empty beer bottles into pulverized glass, the Yellowstone National Park Lodges partner with Bayern Brewery in nearby Missoula, Mont., which washes, sanitizes, refills, re-labels, and puts them back into the supply chain. To date, the park has kept about 140,000 bottles in circulation. That’s about 30 tons of glass kept out of the landfill or recycling stream, which saves resources and energy — all by using sudsy water to refill bottles with suds.
The Big Stretch: In a case of bigger is better, three of Windstar’s small cruise ships were audaciously lengthened and re-powered to improve their environmental performance on the high seas. Star Breeze, Star Legend, and Star Pride were each cut in two to insert a new middle section, which features more-efficient and less-polluting propulsion and generator engines along with new cabins and restaurants. This increased the capacity on each ship from 212 to 312 passengers, reducing fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions by about 20% per-passenger nautical mile. The ventilation systems on the three ships were also upgraded to include HEPA filters and UV-C disinfecting lights to purify the air. Plus, onboard incinerators were removed to eliminate their air emissions. It was a stretch, but it was worth it.
Xanterra Travel Collection®, one of the oldest legacy travel companies in the US, tracing its roots back to the Fred Harvey Company founded in 1875, has long been committed to the preservation and protection of the environment by providing legendary hospitality with a softer footprint. From reducing pollution and conserving water to transitioning to renewable energy and fighting climate change, it has been honored with 42 green awards or certifications.
BILLINGS, MT– Recently merged Active Adventures of Queenstown, New Zealand and Austin Adventures of Montana, USA have announced a holiday offer for the travel-starved this Black Friday through Cyber Monday.
From Friday, Nov. 26 through Monday, Nov. 29, 2021, this special offer saves travelers $500 (per person) on trips priced over $3,500 that are sold and operated exclusively by either travel brand. This booking offer for departures now through the 2022 season is valid through phone and/or online reservations. (Note: This offer excludes Australia hiking adventures and cannot be combined with other promotions, discounts or offers.)
In designing what has turned into Active Adventures and Austin Adventures’ biggest sale ever, Dan Austin, Founder of Austin Adventures, focused on these conditions:
Widespread hunger for the spiritual healing an adventure vacation in nature can bring,
The release of pent-up desire to travel again in the wake of the worldwide pandemic,
The general expectation that 2022 trips will fill quickly now that people are feeling better about travel domestically and abroad.
Due to earlier than usual interest and bookings, Austin expects the following itineraries to be best sellers:
Interested travelers can reserve a spot and take advantage of these special savings by calling 800-575-1540.
With over 60 years of combined experience, Active Adventures and Austin Adventures set the standard for inspiring, all-inclusive, small-group adventures in the most breath-taking regions of the world. Their teams across New Zealand, North America, Peru, Nepal and the Netherlands ensure every detail is looked after. Hand-picked guides with a wealth of experience and local knowledge lead the way as guests enjoy exclusive accommodations, top-notch dining and unique activities showcasing the best of each region.
Each of their 100+ trips are crafted, encouraging guests to not only challenge themselves physically but also to take a deep dive in the local way of life in every destination. For more information, visit activeadventures.com and austinadventures.com
After a COVID-enforced two-year hiatus, the Global Scavenger Hunt is back in 2022 – an around-the-world travel adventure to crown the “World’s Greatest Travelers.”
Unlike the Amazing Race (which was inspired by the Global Scavenger Hunt), The Global Scavenger Hunt isn’t a race, but rather a contest to amass the most points by doing scavenges designed to immerse you into local culture, heritage and environment of the places you visit.
In the course of 23 days, the teams of two travel to 10 countries, not knowing your next destination until your team is given instructions to get to the airport. You have to figure out how to get around without the benefit of GPS, smartphones or computer. Paper maps are allowed, but asking locals for directions is preferred.
Trusting strangers in strange lands is the shibboleth, as the intrepid travelers circle the globe (which is why you can’t use your own GPS or smartphone). The event has touched down in 85 countries to date.
“We’re thrilled about the growing momentum for travel and are feeling so positive and excited about it, that we have scheduled the takeoff dates for our Spring 2022 event: Wheels up April 22 thru May 14,” writes Event Director Bill Chalmers, who calls himself the “ringmaster.”
“Our last event in 2019 was fully subscribed, and we are currently reserving spots for our 2022 adventure while holding on to our 2019 price structure on all deposits made before December 10th this year.”
(Full disclosure: I was on the 2019 Global Scavenger Hunt.)
The event, which will be the 16th Global Scavengee Hunt, pits savvy international travelers against each other by taking them on A Blind Date with the World, visiting ten secret destinations without any prior preparation, and then have them unravel a constant blitz of highly authentic, participatory and challenging culturally-oriented scavenges along the way.
For example: meditating with monks, training elephants, taking flamenco lessons, cooking local dishes with local chefs, searching out Lost Cities, cracking sacred temple mysteries, joining in local celebrations and learning local languages enough to decipher their scavenger hunt clues.
The Global Scavenger Hunt is limited to a small group of world travelers. All travelers are interviewed for suitability and single travelers are welcome to apply (you will be paired up for a team).
For additional information visit GlobalScavengerHunt.com, or contact GreatEscape Adventures Inc., at +1.310.281.7809.
