MORAL COMPASS: Great Places to Go Where the Going Does Good

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Culinary Travel, Cultural Travel, Uncategorized

Savor the Unexpected: Newfoundland and Labrador’s Must-Try Culinary Experiences

April 1, 2025 MoralCompass

*Food Culture Place, Newfoundland and Labrador (Photo Credit: Rugged Rock Media)*

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador — Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage, Newfoundland and Labrador’s food culture is thriving, offering mouth-watering culinary experiences that extend beyond the dinner table. From foraging adventures to farm stays and destination dining, the province is gaining a reputation for immersive meals—whether enjoyed at a new restaurant or over an open campfire on the beach. While cod remains a staple, it’s now part of a broader culinary story that highlights fresh, local ingredients and the bold flavors of the wild Atlantic. Here are five flavorful experiences for travelers to discover this summer in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada:

Roots, Rants, and Roars

Every September – this year from September 19-20 – the coastal town of Elliston hosts the Roots, Rants, and Roars food festival, showcasing top chefs, local ingredients, coastal scenery, and Newfoundland’s culinary traditions. This year, the event features four experiences: The Hike, The Feast, Cod Wars, and the all-new The Forage.

New in 2025, The Forage offers an opportunity to explore Newfoundland’s wild with foraging expert Shawn Dawson and Chef Nick Van Mele. This hands-on experience is perfect for food and nature lovers, offering a chance to connect with the land through sustainable wild harvesting.
The Hike leads guests along Elliston’s breathtaking coastline, where world-class chefs showcase the island’s local ingredients in expertly crafted dishes. As attendees make their way through rolling grassy knolls, historic root cellars, and old potato gardens, they can savor each bite while sipping fine wines and craft beers. Live musicians weave the island’s musical traditions into the journey, blending their melodies with the rhythmic crash of the waves.
The Feast is an eight-course, family-style meal from Newfoundland and Labrador’s top chefs. This picnic table dining experience highlights the region’s bounty, with each dish showcasing fresh, local ingredients. After the meal, guests are invited to the outdoor dance floor to enjoy live local music.
Cod Wars brings a competitive edge to the festival as six chefs go head-to-head, each creating their own cod dish for attendees to sample. At the end of the night, all guests cast their vote to crown the Cod King or Queen.

The Irish Loop

Historically known for its rugged landscapes and coastal views, the Irish Loop has emerged as a must-visit foodie destination within Newfoundland and Labrador. This region is home to a variety of acclaimed restaurants offering new dining options for discerning travelers keen to experience traditional Newfoundland dishes with a twist. Fork Restaurant, a cozy and welcoming dining destination, offers a quaint setting where guests can enjoy hyper-local dishes inspired by the property’s free-ranging hens and kitchen garden. La Roca at the Bread & Cheese Inn is reopening in April 2025 to serve contemporary dishes that showcase Newfoundland’s best seasonal bounty. Forager at Cliffs Edge Retreat lives up to its name, creating nature-inspired dishes from foraged ingredients, while Arbour, an upscale resto-lounge, brings an elevated and modern approach to classic flavors.

Cultural Residency

Cultural food ambassador, educator and storyteller, Lori McCarthy is dedicated to keeping Newfoundland and Labrador’s food traditions alive, inviting travelers to experience them firsthand through her Food Culture Place Residency. This program offers a dive into the province’s culinary heritage, with three-day or six-day excursions that teach foraging, traditional cooking, and food preservation. Guests can gather ingredients straight from the land and sea, bake bread the old-fashioned way, cook over an open beach fire, and speak with local chefs, hunters, and fishermen. McCarthy is passionate about spreading traditions and has a strong focus on sustainability and cultural preservation.

Bee Keeping and Honey Tasting

Pollen Nation Farms offers an immersive experience in sustainable beekeeping and Indigenous food traditions. The farm is home to one of the world’s purest honey sources, thanks to the island’s varroa-mite-free bee population. Visitors can see this firsthand through guided hive tours and fireside cooking demonstrations as part of the Culinary & Bee Experience, where honey takes center stage in seasonal and locally inspired menus. At the on-site Café & Beestro, dishes highlight the farm’s flavors with honey-infused creations.

Beyond the farm, Pollen Nation’s founders also host the NL Honeybee Festival every August—a celebration of the bees, food, and local culture. The festival brings the community together with an open-air market, honey-infused tastings, foraging walks, wine pairings, and a fireside open mic night.

Farm Stays

Upper Humber Settlement FarmStay invites travelers to slow down and connect with the land, food, and culture of Newfoundland’s west coast. The small, sustainable farm offers a glimpse into daily life in rural Newfoundland, where guests can start their day with farm-fresh eggs, locally sourced meats, and homemade preserves, then take part in hands-on culinary experiences that highlight the region’s ingredients. Located in Cormack, in the Humber Valley, the farm is rooted in both agriculture and history. Hands-on cooking classes celebrate ingredients grown on-site and sourced from nearby producers, allowing visitors a chance to prepare and share meals. Owned by an Indigenous Newfoundlander, the farm offers visitors a chance to experience Mi’kmaq culture and traditions, from gathering around an open fire to bake bannock to listening to storytelling sessions. It’s a place where food, culture, and community come together, offering an understanding of what it means to live like a local.

For more information or to plan a visit to Newfoundland and Labrador, visit www.newfoundlandlabrador.com.

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Active Travel, Cultural Travel, family-friendly adventures, international travel, Uncategorized

Slovenia Through Kids’ Eyes: Unforgettable Summer Adventures for Families

March 22, 2025 MoralCompass

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy quality time with your family on a traditional Slovenian farm.

Slovenia is a playground of fun and adventure for kids! From exploring nature trails to splashing in water parks, there’s something for every young adventurer. Hike or bike through scenic landscapes, visit the majestic Lipizzaner horses, or step into a magical underground world to meet the baby dragon, a truly unique creature that has fascinated explorers for centuries.

Here are some activities to enjoy with kids in Slovenia this summer:

Water adventures in Slovenian Spas

Unforgettable water adventures await you in various water parks and spas. Many of them offer slides, pools, waves, and many other fantastical attractions.

Visit Terme Olimia Aqualuna in Podčetrtek, a family-friendly water park known for its adrenaline-pumping slides, wave pools, and relaxing areas. Additionally, Slovenia’s first family hotel, located at Terme Olimia, is set to begin construction in March, with a grand opening planned for May 21, 2026.

Terme Čatež Spa is Slovenia’s largest thermal resort, offering a wide range of pools, saunas, and wellness treatments. Known for its Thermal Riviera, it provides year-round water fun and relaxation for families and spa lovers alike.

Terme 3000 in Moravske Toplice is a thermal spa resort famous for its unique black thermal mineral water, known for its healing properties. It offers a mix of relaxation, wellness, and adventure with thermal pools, waterslides, and a golf course.

Terme Ptuj Spa in Slovenia is a thermal resort inspired by ancient Roman traditions, offering rejuvenating wellness treatments and relaxing thermal pools. With its water slides, saunas, and a nearby golf course, it provides both adventure and relaxation for all ages.

By the Rivers and Lakes – A Fun Activity for Kids

Summer is the perfect time to cool off in crystal-clear rivers and refreshing waters surrounded by nature. Soča, Nadiža, Kolpa, and Drava are just a few of the rivers where summer feels especially great. Along the riverbanks, you’ll find numerous campsites and eco-friendly accommodations, such as charming treehouses. Slovenia’s idyllic lakes are a true feast for the eyes, and some even invite you for a swim. Beyond swimming, exciting water adventures await—from paddleboarding and kayaking to thrilling water slides. And don’t forget, there’s plenty to do on the coast too!

Find out more here.

Explore the Hills – A Family Adventure!

Slovenia is a hiker’s green paradise, offering breathtaking trails for all ages. Even young explorers can conquer many scenic peaks, making every step an unforgettable adventure. Feel the joy of movement, immerse yourself in nature, and experience the magic of mountain life with your children. From the stunning pastures of Velika Planina to the alpine beauty of Kranjska Gora, Bled, and Bohinj—choose your perfect hiking destination and create lasting memories!

Find more information here

The Kingdom of Animals – An Exciting Adventure for Kids

Discover fascinating animals that have made their homes in Slovenia’s diverse regions. In the Postojna Cave, meet the unique “human fish”, baby dragon, creature found nowhere else in the world. Not far from there, you’ll be amazed by the elegant Lipizzaner horses in Lipica, one of Europe’s most famous stables. In Slovenia’s natural parks, you can admire native animal species and plants, offering an unforgettable experience for young nature lovers!

Farm Life Fun – A Family Experience in Slovenia

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy quality time with your family on a traditional Slovenian farm. Kids will have a blast meeting the farm animals, baking bread and cakes, and tasting fresh fruit straight from the orchard. While parents lend a hand with tasks like mowing the lawn and picking fruit, children can run freely through the vast meadows. After a day full of farm adventures, settle in for a peaceful sleep surrounded by the cozy comforts of the barn.

Find more information here.

Discover Slovenia Through Its Unique Museums

Visiting museums is always a great option, and Slovenia has plenty to offer, with a wide range of experiences for all ages.

If you’re a chocoholic, don’t miss Chocolarium Ljubljana, a unique chocolate museum where you can also join fun chocolate workshops.

Discover the mysterious world of mercury at Anthony’s Main Road, part of the Idrija Mercury Mine—the oldest preserved mine entrance in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Explore the Straw Hat Museum to learn about the rich tradition of straw hat-making.

In Alpine Slovenia, visit the Peca Underworld Museum in Mežica, a former lead and zinc mine where you can learn about geological features or venture through its historic tunnels.

Discover the tradition of making honey bread at the Honeybread Museum in Radovljica.

Explore museums that capture the essence of the sea and the Karst region, like the Shell Museum Piran, home to over 3,000 shells and snails. Or step into the enchanting forest world of the Dina Centre for Large Carnivores in Pivka.

In the Thermal Pannonian Slovenia region, learn about the lives and work of miners, brewers, and winegrowers.

Find more information here.

Experience the Ultimate Escape Room Adventure in Slovenia!

For escape room enthusiasts, Enigmarium® is Slovenia’s largest network, with locations in Ljubljana, Maribor, and other cities. Ideal for groups of 2 to 5 people, Enigmarium® offers an immersive experience that has earned the prestigious Sejalec Award. With a wide variety of themes—including culinary, artistic, detective, educational, and horror—there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re saving humanity from zombies, breaking out of prison, rescuing the city’s guardian dragon, or exploring the first-ever escape room dedicated to brewing, Enigmarium® promises a thrilling adventure!

Don’t miss the Sensperience—a unique interactive sensory game—and other exciting gamified outdoor city escape experiences.

Find more information here

Explore Slovenia’s Virtual Reality Adventures: History, Nature, Space, and More

Rewrite history with VR at Thermana Laško Spa and Celje Old Castle, bringing Count Friderik and Veronika’s story to life. Discover Pomurje through interactive VR at the Expano Pavilion by Sabota Lake. Travel through space at the Noordung Centre, experiencing the solar system and artificial gravity. Step into Trbovlje miners’ world with a VR mining experience or fly a MiG-21 at the Park of Military History in Pivka with a VR simulator. Enjoy a cosmic journey in the 360-degree Planetarium Podčetrtek or experience fun, immersive VR adventures at Virtualist in Ljubljana. Slide down a virtual zipline from Triglav to the Slovene Alpine Museum. Discover the Bee World Pavilion in Mirna Peč, where you can interactively explore the world of bees with a 360-degree view of a beehive and even take selfies with a virtual Carniolan grey bee. Travel through 450 years of history at the Old Vine House in Maribor with VR. Discover digital castles at Terme Čatež. Experience Velika Planina’s cultural heritage through a 360-degree VR flight or dive into a variety of VR games for all ages at Woop! Arena in Ljubljana.

Find more information here

To find out more about family adventures in Slovenia, click here.

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benefits of travel, Benefits of Travel & Tourism, Cultural Travel

European Waterways Highlights Top Trends & Destinations to Visit in 2025

March 7, 2025 MoralCompass

Cruising the canals of France on European Waterways’ Panache, accentuating the trend for slow, mindful travel that immerse travelers in localities and culture © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“In 2025, the travel industry is all about mindful travel, personalization, and creating unforgettable experiences,” states Maryanne 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 center stage 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.”

Connect with European Waterways at www.europeanwaterways.com.

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Cultural Travel, heritage travel, Historic Places, Museums & Exhibits, New York City travel, Uncategorized

Ground-Breaking “Anne Frank The Exhibition” in NYC is Extended After Tickets Sell-Out in One Week

February 22, 2025 MoralCompass

Standing in Anne Frank’s tiny room in The Annex where she and her family hid from the Nazis for two years, personalizes the Holocaust. This immersion into a full-scale re-creation of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is part of a landmark “Anne Frank The Exhibition,” now on view at the Center for Jewish History in New York City © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

(New York and Amsterdam)—No surprise that in response to overwhelming demand, the Anne Frank House is extending its world premiere presentation of Anne Frank The Exhibition at the Center for Jewish History in New York City through October 31, 2025. Originally scheduled for just three months, tickets sold out within one week of opening on January 27, 2025, demonstrating the demand for this extraordinary experience.

“We are deeply moved by the overwhelming interest in this exhibition,” Ronald Leopold, Executive Director of the Anne Frank House, said. “As we carry forward Anne’s legacy, we are profoundly grateful for the opportunity to extend this new presentation in New York. The initial response affirms our belief that we must meet the present moment with education. History is our greatest teacher, and Anne’s words continue to resonate across generations. In bringing this exhibition to New York and extending its stay, the Anne Frank House, with the support of the Center for Jewish History, is making it possible for more people to reflect on the life and loss of Anne, and the 1.5 million Jewish children lost in the Holocaust. Together, we remain committed to stand against antisemitism and group hatred and we thank New York for joining us in this important effort.”

Dr. Gavriel Rosenfeld, President of the Center for Jewish History, said: “It has been our honor to partner with the Anne Frank House as host to this landmark exhibition, and we are excited to continue welcoming audiences from around the world for its extended run.”

As a nonprofit organization helping to shape global understanding of the Holocaust and its contemporary relevance, including lessons on modern-day antisemitism, racism, and discrimination, the Anne Frank House is entrusted with the preservation of the Annex where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. This new exhibition is presented in New York City in partnership with the Center for Jewish History in Manhattan and is designed for audiences who may not have the opportunity to visit the Netherlands.

Step inside Anne Frank’s world—an unprecedented experience

Anne Frank The Exhibition is the first time in history that the Anne Frank House presents a pioneering experience outside of Amsterdam to immerse visitors in a full-scale recreation of the Annex rooms, fully furnished, where Anne Frank, her parents and sister, and four other Jews spent two years hiding to evade Nazi capture.

Moving through the exhibition, visitors can immerse themselves in the context that shaped Anne’s life—from her early years in Frankfurt through the rise of the Nazi regime and the family’s phased move to Amsterdam across 1933 and 1934, where Anne lived for ten years until her 1944 arrest and deportation to Westerbork, a large transit camp in the Netherlands, then to Auschwitz-Birkenau, a concentration camp and killing center in Nazi-occupied Poland, and eventually to her death at Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Germany when she was 15 years old.

Four exhibition galleries immerse visitors in place and history through video, sound, photography, and animation; and more than 100 original collection items from the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam. Anne Frank The Exhibition provides an opportunity to learn about Anne Frank not as a victim but through the multifaceted lens of her life—as a girl, a writer, and a symbol of resilience and strength. This is a story inspired by one of the most translated books in the world.

The New York City exhibition occupies over 7,500 square feet of gallery space in the heart of Union Square. This marks the first time dozens of artifacts can be seen in the United States—many have never been seen in public.

Artifacts in the exhibition include:

Anne Frank’s first photo album (1929-1942);

Anne Frank’s typed and handwritten invitation to her friend for a film screening in her home (by 1942, anti-Jewish measures prohibited Jews from attending the cinema); and

Handwritten verses by Anne Frank in her friends’ poetry albums.

Advising the Anne Frank House on the New York City exhibition is Michael S. Glickman, CEO of jMUSE. Dr. Doyle Stevick, Executive Director of The Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina, the Anne Frank House’s official U.S. partner, is the educational advisor.

The exhibition is made possible through the generosity of many philanthropic foundations and individuals, whose partnership has ensured the exhibition is available to students and educators throughout the United States, as well as throughout the local New York City metro region.

With this new exhibition, the Anne Frank House seeks to expand its reach and educational impact at a time of rising antisemitism in the United States. It is presented in New York City, where Jews continue to be the most targeted group and where hate crimes against others are on the rise.

In supporting students through field trips, the exhibition serves as a primary source for students and educators and, since its opening was first announced, has been booking hundreds of visits for school groups from New York to California and states in between. With a goal of reaching 250,000 students, philanthropic support has made it possible for the Anne Frank House to ensure tickets are free for NYC public schools and Title I public school groups throughout the United States.

To enhance resources for teachers, the exhibition includes an accompanying curriculum developed with The Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina. The curriculum materials place antisemitism in its historic context. Questions lead students to consider the roots and evolution of antisemitism, including how it led to the Holocaust.

“Anne Frank’s story provides a compelling window into the past, one that helps students understand the dangers of bigotry and the importance of never being a bystander,” Doyle Stevick, Executive Director of the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina and educational advisor to the exhibition, said. “The curriculum developed to accompany this exhibition ensures teachers and students will have the highest-quality educational resources they need to learn about the Holocaust and its relevance today. We are thrilled to see that hundreds of school groups from around the country have already booked field trips.”

Educational visits to the exhibition, as well as Individual and Family ticket purchases, can be scheduled by visiting AnneFrankExhibit.org.

Anne Frank The Exhibition is a limited engagement, now extended through October 31, 2025.

Anne Frank House gratefully acknowledges the following benefactors who have contributed to the exhibition:

The exhibition is made possible by Leon Levy Foundation, with leadership support by David Berg Foundation, Rebecca and Jared Cohen, Stacey and Eric Mindich, UJA-Federation of New York, and corporate partner Bank of America.

Educational patrons to the exhibition include Gray Foundation and The Fuhrman Family Foundation, with additional support by The Barbra Streisand Foundation.

Major support has been provided by Debbie and Mark Attanasio, Tanya and Ryan Baker, Einstein Astrof Foundation, Elyssa and William Friedland, Jesselson Foundation, Allison and Warren Kanders, Pershing Square Philanthropies, Sara Naison-Tarajano, Katharine M. and Leo S. Ullman, Waksal Foundation, and Anonymous, with sponsorship support by GRoW @ Annenberg, Rita J. & Stanley H. Kaplan Family Foundation, Merryl and James Tisch, The Claire Friedlander Family Foundation, and Zegar Family Foundation.

Pro bono legal services provided by Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz.

General Information

Tickets available at AnneFrankExhibit.org. The exhibition is designed for children (ages 10 and older) and adults. All general admission tickets include the exhibition audio guide. Visitors should plan to spend approximately one hour at the exhibition. Last entry is one hour before closing.

Individual tickets: Timed entry tickets, Monday through Friday: $24 (17 and under, $18); Timed entry tickets, Sunday: $31 (17 and under, $24); Flex tickets, Monday through Friday: $38; Flex tickets, Sunday: $54

Family tickets (2 adults + 2 children under 17 years): Timed entry tickets, Monday through Friday: $74 (additional 17 and under ticket, $18); Timed entry tickets, Sunday: $98 (additional 17 and under ticket, $24)

Group sales (adults): $300 per group of 10, timed entry, Monday through Friday; $400 per group of 10, timed entry, Sunday

Hours: Sunday through Thursday: 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday: Closed

Center for Jewish History, 15 West 16th Street, New York, N.Y. between 5th and 6th Avenues

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Adventure Travel, Cultural Travel, ecotourism, Indigenous Tourism, Uncategorized

wukalina Walk Named One of TIME’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places

August 17, 2024 MoralCompass

wukalina Walk, a member of Discover Aboriginal Experiences, has been named one of TIME‘s 2024 World’s Greatest Places.

Vetted by TIME‘s editors and correspondents around the world, this exclusive list features 100 extraordinary destinations to explore, stay and visit. The award by TIME is highly coveted and reaches a global audience of 120 million (via TIME‘s print magazine, website and socials). Editors choose with an eye towards those offering new and exciting experiences.

wukalina Walk is a multi-award winning Indigenous/palawa-owned tourism experience. Led by Aboriginal guides, the walk offers a rare window into Tasmania/lutruwita’s Aboriginal culture. For the first two nights, hikers sleep at the architecturally designed standing camp, krakani lumi (resting place), in domed-ceiling huts designed to reflect the shape of the palawa shelters that once lined the east coast of Tasmania/lutruwita. The third night is spent in a beautifully repurposed and restored lightkeeper’s cottage at the most northern end of larapuna (Bay of Fires).

A group of up to 10 people are led on foot by Aboriginal guides to learn about land and sea Country. wukalina guides have lived experience and thousands of generations of Ancestral connections to the knowledge they share. They share their knowledge and perspectives as they lead travellers through bushland and along the coastline of wukalina (Mt William National Park) and larapuna (Bay of Fires). Hikers learn about the colonial history of Tasmania/lutruwita, and the brutal treatment of the palawa people. But the tour highlights their resilience, strength of culture, language and the ongoing connection that the palawa community has to Country.

wukalina Walk is a proudly Blak-owned business and different to anything else offered in Tasmania, and anywhere in the world. wukalina Walk was winner of the 2023 Australian National Tourism Awards for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experience.

“Sharing our stories and our history on cultural homeland is an integral part of the experience,” said Clyde Mansell, Tasmanian palawa Aboriginal Elder and founder of wukalina Walk.

“It also allows us to increase employment, involve our young people and contribute to our self-determination, by creating more opportunities for the palawa community.”

“We’ve had comments over the years where guests have said it’s changed their lives and their whole thinking about how they should relate to Aboriginal people,” said Mansell.

Discover Aboriginal Experiences is a flagship suite of extraordinary Australian Aboriginal-guided experiences. Travelers learn about and connect with the diverse histories, cultures and languages of Aboriginal peoples, which date back more than 65,000 years.

Each member in this collective is considered a leader in Aboriginal tourism, with more than 200 experiences from over 48 businesses around Australia, all led by Aboriginal guides. Please see the following pages for further details on other experiences in the collective.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, bike trips, Cultural Travel, cycling trips, hiking, Uncategorized

Travel Deal: Walk, Hike or Bike to Get 15% Off Tours with Explore Worldwide

June 12, 2024 MoralCompass

*Lisbon, Portugal. Explore Worldwide is offering a limited time, pre-summer promotion on walking, hiking and biking holidays such as Lisbon to Algarve © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Travelers can walk, hike or bike to get 15% off more than 700 tour departures through B-corp certified global adventure tour company, Explore Worldwide, during the 10-day pre-summer promotion starting June 17.

Driven by an increase in demand for active adventures (over 40% increase), Explore is tapping into travelers’ adventurous spirit with a selection of tours in Europe and beyond. In fact, drawing the most attention and gaining in popularity are getaways centered around walking and cycling, with cycling seeing growth of 75% year over year.

Travelers can book these active adventures to trending destinations like the Baltics for guided walking through Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, or walking through the Azores. Cycle the Dalmatian Coast or from Lisbon to Algarve with an E-bike option in Portugal. Or trek the Dolomites or week-long trek in Picos de Europa National Park in Spain.

For a full list of tours and insider experiences click: https://exploreworldwide.com/active-travel-sale.

Available for travelers within United States and Canada, the promotion can be booked from June 17-27, 2024 for travel starting this summer through June 30, 2025 on available departures. Rates starting from $1,200. Explore Worldwide offers travel agents 15% commission rate on bookings. (Additional Terms and conditions may apply.)

Explore Worldwide has over 40 years’ experience in crafting authentic small-group travel experiences around the world with a specialty in cultural experience with an air of adventure (from walking and cycling to trekking and more). With over 350 trips in 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel. Explore has immersive, sustainable travel in its DNA, as a founding signatory of the Glasgow Declaration and with one of the leading Climate Action Plans in the industry. Earlier this year, Explore not only received B-Corp status, but also completed the biggest carbon-measurement project in the industry to date, and is now working towards reducing the carbon emissions of its tours by 50% by 2050.

More information at www.exploreworldwide.com, 888-233-5210.

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Active Travel, Cultural Travel, Uncategorized

11 Experiences To Celebrate National Indigenous History Month in British Columbia, Canada

June 7, 2024 MoralCompass

Active Travel, Adventure Travel, Cultural Travel

New Direct Flight from Lima Accessing Huarascan National Park Among Tourism Improvements in Peru

June 6, 2024 MoralCompass

*Cuzco, Peru’s “Golden City,” is seeing new services and hotels, like Motto by Hilton Cuzco, which pays homage to entice tourists © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

For the past six years, tourists visiting Huaraz had to get there by bus or car during an 8-hour long journey from Lima.

Beginning July 1, LATAM airlines is launching direct flights connecting the country’s capital Lima with the city of Huaraz in the Ancash region. The flight will take approximately an hour and will operate Monday, Thursday, Friday and Sundays on an Airbus A319 aircraft (with capacity for 12 passengers in Premium Economy cabin and 126 in Economy). Tickets can be purchased at LATAM.com with an average economy ticket price around $50.

Huaraz, often called the adventure capital of Peru, is the gateway to Ancash, a region of the country best known for its wide range of outdoor adventure experiences including climbing, hiking, skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding and camping.

Easily accessible from Huaraz, the peaks of Huascaran, Huandoy and Alpamayo are within the highest tropical mountain range in the world, the Cordillera Blanca. The area is a dream for those serious about mountaineering, but there’s plenty for those looking for less of a challenge. You can find more information on climbing in Huaraz here and trekking in Ancash here.

Huarascan National Park offers glacier-topped peaks surrounding turquoise blue lakes, astonishing flora and fauna biodiversity, as well as 33 archeological sites that connect travelers with Peru’s history. In addition to its natural wonders, Huaraz offers a rich local culture, with vibrant markets and traditional festivals that reflect the region’s native heritage.

Commercial flights to Huaraz were halted six years ago, but renovations to the airport in August 2023 allowed the reintroduction of the route to being in July.

Here’s what else is new in Peru:

HOTELS

Motto by Hilton, Cusco has announced its South American debut with the opening of Motto by Hilton Cusco. A more than $5 million investment in the center of the city, the 58-key property pays homage to Cusco’s past.

Doubletree by Hilton Lima San Isidro opened in March 2024.

Santa Cruz Lodge has partnered with Casa Andina. Santa Cruz is located 45 minutes from the center of Caraz, Ancash. Guests can immerse themselves in experiential tourism.

The Legend Paracas Resort: Destination by Hyatt will make its South American debut this year with the acquisition of The Legend Paracas Resort. Located about three hours south of Lima, the ocean-front property offers panoramic views of Paracas Bay and rugged desert hills. The 124-suite resort is currently undergoing a phased enhancement project to elevate guestrooms, create new dining options and redesign public areas. The revamped resort is expected to reopen in June 2024.

Casa Andina, a Peruvian hotel chain, will open a new hotel in Madre de Dios in 2024. The location is in Peru’s Amazon rainforest near Manu National Park in the remote Madre De Dios region. This is the chain’s 44th property of reasonably priced boutique properties throughout Peru. Casa Andina was named one of the “sexiest new hotels for 2024” by CNN Travel.

Novotel Punta Sal Beach Resort to open its first location in Peru in Q4 2024. The $25.5 million dollar resort will be located south of Punta Sal on one of the longest beaches on the Peruvian coast. The property will have 182 suites, a gym, two swimming pools, jacuzzi and spa, and will offer activities such as surfing, mountain biking, diving, swimming with turtles and whale watching. The development will have a special focus on the environment to promote sustainability.

RESTAURANTS

Señor Honey opened in April 2024 in the Miraflores district. Its offerings include burgers, cocktails and snacks made with spicy honey, inspired by authentic New York flavors.

EXPERIENCES / EXPEDITIONS

Veuve Clicquot and Belmond team up to launch Solaire Journey (October 2024): Leading luxury hospitality brand, Belmond, has partnered with the prestigious champagne house, Veuve Clicquot, to launch the Solaire Journey for discerning travelers. This premium train voyage is set to debut in Peru October 21 to 26, 2024, offering a remarkable adventure from Cusco to Arequipa aboard the Hiram Bingham and Andean Explorer trains. Along the way, guests will discover iconic landmarks, including Machupicchu, the La Raya mountain range, Lake Titicaca and the floating Uros Islands made entirely of cattail reeds. The Solaire Journey promises a one-of-a-kind experience in Peru with guided tours and exclusive Solaire activities enhanced by Veuve Clicquot champagne pairings and unforgettable fine dining experiences.

Abercrombie & Kent to launch Peruvian Amazon river cruise in 2025: Luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent has announced the launch of a new Peruvian riverboat set to make its maiden voyage in April 2025. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon aboard the exclusive 22-passenger luxury vessel. Three, four and seven-day itineraries will combine river and land excursions, including Machu Picchu. The river cruise is a joint venture between A&K and expedition yacht company Ecoventura.

Amazon Canoe Challenge expedition to take place June 2-10. Navigate the Amazon by canoe or SUP through a series of overnight checkpoints. Paddle independently during the day, and camp out on the river overnight.

Alpaca Expeditions’ new women’s-only Sacred Valley & Salkantay Tour to Machupicchu will launch June 22 – 28, 2024.

G Adventures launches The Geluxe Collection, featuring 5 Peru tours beginning August 2024.

TRANSPORTATION

The new Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima will open in December 2024. This $2 billion dollar airport will replace the old Jorge Chavez airport with plans to serve 30 million passengers a year. The airport will feature a four-level terminal with large commercial spaces, parking lots, an extensive area with hotels and restaurants and cutting-edge technology for passenger transit and baggage management.

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Cultural Travel, festivals & events, international travel, Uncategorized

Croatia Summer Festivals, Events Highlight Culture, Heritage

May 29, 2024 MoralCompass

Dubrovnik Summer Festival | Credit: Dubrovnik City Tourism Board

As the summer season approaches, Croatia beckons travelers with a promise of unforgettable experiences amidst stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural events. This year, visitors to the picturesque nation will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a plethora of festivals that showcase the country’s unique heritage:

JUNE 27^th – 29^TH: RetrOpatija in Opatija: Step back in time and experience the retro charm of Opatija with this nostalgic and fun event. RetrOpatija is a musical journey through time, blending swing, rockabilly, rock, jazz, and electric disco music to create a sensational party celebrating the iconic decades and musical styles of the twentieth century. This retro festival brings together an array of talent, including pin-up models, dancers, jugglers, street musicians, makeup artists, and hair stylists, while also showcasing vintage cars and motorcycles like Vespas, Tomos, and Fiats. Join thousands of other visitors beneath a large disco ball at the ‘party of the century’ and dance the night away. (https://www.visitopatija.com/en/retropatija)

JUNE 30^th to JULY 1^st: Half-New Year Celebration Carnival in Korcula: Half New Year Celebration Carnival, a traditional fun event, carnival parade through the streets of Korčula, each year attracts a large number of guests who are having fun until the early morning hours on the streets of the town of Korčula. (https://visitkorcula.eu/)

JULY 10^TH to AUGUST 25^TH: Dubrovnik Summer Festival: Celebrating its 75th edition, the Dubrovnik Summer Festival is set to enchant visitors to one of Croatia’s main destinations with a captivating blend of theater, music, and dance against the backdrop of the historic city of Dubrovnik. From classical concerts to contemporary performances, this renowned festival promises cultural delights for all. ( https://www.dubrovnik-festival.hr/)

AUGUST 2^nd to 4^th: Sinjska Alka in Sinj: The Sinjska Alka in Sinj is a rare and ancient chivalric game, commemorating the victory of 700 Sinj knights over the Ottoman army in 1715. This victory, attributed to the Madonna’s intervention, saved the town from the siege. The Alka embodies a blend of local, eastern, and Venetian influences, showcased through elaborate costumes and military-inspired competition rules. The event is a vibrant display of movement, sound, and color. The people of Sinj instituted the Alka – the knights’ tournament in honor of its heavenly patroness the Madonna of Sinj, as an eternal vow of devotion and respect. Over three centuries, the Alka has become ingrained in the identity of Sinj and the Cetina March, serving as a testament to the preservation of chivalric spirit and regional pride. Recognized for its cultural significance, the Alka has been inscribed on the UNESCO List of Intangible World Heritage since November 16, 2010, as a unique tradition. (https://www.alka.hr/en)

AUGUST 23^TH TO SEPTEMBER 1^ST: Špancirfest (Strollers’ Festival) in Varazdin: Špancirfest in Varaždin is a dynamic festival that energizes the city with creativity and cultural exchange. Over its 20-year tenure, it has showcased over 15,000 performers from around the globe and welcomed 2 million visitors. Beyond its entertainment value, Špancirfest has become an integral part of Varaždin’s identity, with locals measuring time between festivals. The streets and squares of the historic city center come alive with the presence of street artists and buskers, creating a vibrant atmosphere that permeates throughout. Through smiles and good vibrations, attendees become active participants in the festival, contributing to its sense of community and camaraderie. Špancirfest is not just an event; it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and the enduring spirit of Varaždin. (https://www.spancirfest.com/en/)

Click here for more information about the top events this summer across Croatia.

Stretching along the Adriatic Sea, just a stone’s throw from Central Europe, Croatia is a country defined by a rich cultural legacy. Today, history perfectly combines with a youthful spirit and vibrant energy that prove irresistible to those seeking diversity. Breath-taking natural beauty, endless coastlines, diverse gastronomy, adventure, sports and wellness, can be enjoyed all year round. Whether exploring the old city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, island-hopping around the Split archipelago, truffle hunting in Istria, strolling around the Plitvice Lakes, delving into Zagreb’s streets and hidden passages, birdwatching in Kopački rit, or taking time out with the family on Zlatni Rat beach, there truly is something for everyone in Croatia. For more information, visit https://croatia.hr/en-gb

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