Ireland is rich in culture with its wild landscapes and hearty culinary delights. From enjoying a pot of Irish stew, to exploring Ireland’s lush lands and regal castles, connect with your Gaelic Roots on Insight Vacations’ immersive experiences.
Ireland may be a small country but it is rich in culture
with its wild landscapes and hearty culinary delights. From enjoying a pot of
Irish stew, to exploring Ireland’s lush lands and regal castles, you’ll connect
with your Gaelic Roots on Insight Vacations’ immersive experiences.
Lonely
Planet named Galway as one of the top places to visit
in the world in 2020—a cultural destination highlighted on Insight Vacations’
Ireland itineraries. The accolade has been
given in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2020, describing the city as “arguably
Ireland’s most engaging city”.
According to the European
Capital of Culture, visitors to Galway can expect to
experience the city and county’s best year yet, with a year-long program of
extraordinary street spectacle, live and digital art as well as world-class
music, theatre and dance.
As the award-winning leader in premium escorted
travel, Insight Vacations wants travelers to observe Galway with experiences
that go beyond the ordinary. On Insight’s journeys to Ireland, guests
are invited to meet and interact with locals and explore various establishments
that offer authenticity as well as good old-fashioned fun.
Here are several Insight trips that immerse guests
into the unique aspects of Galway:
Country Roads of Ireland (12
Days):Travelers will get the chance to enjoy
breathtaking views of the Clare Coast before a delightful drive through the
strange, rocky landscape of the Burren to Galway Bay. They will spend a day at
their leisure to relax and enjoy the city– perhaps joining an Optional
Experience to the Aran Islands – a genuine highlight of the Wild Atlantic Way.
With their cliffs and spectacular coastal views, the islands are a true Irish
experience.
Focus on Ireland (7 Days):Lead
by Insights’ dedicated and knowledgeable Travel Director, guests will explore
the infamous Lynch Memorial and the Church of St. Nicholas, where Christopher
Columbus reputedly prayed before his discovery of America. They will also see
the aged Spanish Arch and Eyre Square, dedicated to the late US President, John
F. Kennedy.
Irish Elegance (8 Days):Guests will journey the City of the Tribes and visit
Galway’s stunning cathedral. They can take in the beautiful scenery during
their two-night stay at the Connemara Coast Hotel, which is spectacularly set
on the shores of Galway Bay.
For a limited time on Insight Vacations journeys, guests can
visit Galway with Insight Vacations’ amazing air offer:From
now until Dec. 18, travelers can save up to $300 per couple on economy
air on departures from Oct. 1, 2019 to May 31, 2020, and Sept. 1, 2020 to Nov.
15, 2020.
By choosing flights with American Airlines, British Airways,
Finnair and Iberia, travelers can save $150 off per person on Economy,
$200 off per person on Premium Economy or $300 off per person on Business Class.
In addition to the these air offers, Insight
Vacations is also offering a 10% savings to Europe with their popular Early
Payment Discount for those who book and pay in full by December 18, 2019. This
discount is combinable with Insights’ air offers.
Save Venice, an American nonprofit organization, has formed an Immediate Response Fund for artistic and cultural heritage recovery following the extreme floods (acque alte) that devastated Venice between November 12-17, 2019. The Embassy of Italy in Washington DC and Save Venice are partnering to raise funds for the Immediate Response Fund, which will support urgent relief efforts and preventative conservation. Donations can be made at savevenice.org/donate by selecting the Immediate Response Fund, and will be matched by Save Venice, dollar for dollar, up to $100,000 through February 2020.
“Save Venice was born in the aftermath
of the terrible floods of November 1966, and the November 2019 floods
underscore the urgency of our mission,” said Save Venice Chairman Frederick Ilchman. “The Immediate Response
Fund will allow Save Venice to move quickly to mitigate the effects of
corrosive saltwater and deposits in flooded churches, museums, and comparable
public buildings, to support emergency conservation treatment for paintings,
stonework, floors, wooden furnishings, and books and archival documents, as
well as to undertake preventative conservation to minimize damage from future
floods. We will continue to do what our track record proves we do best: protect
Venice’s irreplaceable artistic heritage.”
The Italian Ambassador, Armando Varricchio, noted, “Venice has deep
historical roots and is a modern and vibrant city, innovative and open to the
future with a strong entrepreneurial and industrial background. Venice and
Venetians are resilient. They will rise to this challenge,” adding that “the legacy
of the past, the energy and dynamism of nowadays Venice are the solid
foundations on which to build a bright future for the city.”
Dr. Ilchman said, “We are honored to
partner with the Embassy of Italy on this important initiative to make a difference
for Venice, and we express our gratitude to Ambassador Varricchio.”
Headquartered in New
York City, Save Venice maintains a full-time office in Venice with staff
members diligently overseeing each conservation site. They are collaborating
with conservators and local authorities to assist with damage assessment and
plans for the recovery process. As new environmental challenges arise, Save
Venice and its family of experts are prepared to devise and implement
additional preservation protocols. The Board of Directors of Save Venice is
convinced that the time to act is now.
Save
Venice is a leading American non-profit organization dedicated to
preserving the artistic heritage of Venice, Italy for the world. Founded in
response to the floods of 1966, the worst in recorded history, and incorporated
in 1971, Save Venice has since worked tirelessly to preserve, protect, and
promote the art and culture of Venice and has funded the conservation of more
than 550 projects comprising over 1,000 individual artworks. In 2015, Save
Venice established the Rosand Library & Study Center in Venice, creating a
nexus for the research of Venetian art, history, and conservation. Save Venice
also provides grants for fellowships, exhibitions, and publications to advance
Venetian scholarship and conservation.
PONANT announced a new partnership with the Musée du Louvre to bring Paris to the sea with two new sailings in the Adriatic and Persian Gulf departing in August and November 2020 respectively. In collaboration with PONANT, onboard programming will be carefully designed with curators and department directors from the Louvre for guests to discover the ancient lands that have inspired the museum’s collections.
PONANT, a leader in
luxury expeditions, will continue to broaden its horizons in 2020 with the
addition of two new ships, a new partnership and 50 new itineraries through
destinations in North America, Europe, Asia and Africa.
NEW SHIPS
The PONANT EXPLORERS
fleet will total six ships with the launch of LeBellot in April 2020and LeJacques
Cartierin July 2020.Both vessels will feature an
innovative Blue Eye lounge located eight feet beneath the water line. The
industry-first, multi-sensory space will allow guests to experience the
subaquatic world through sight, sound and feel.
Space to watch: PONANT will also
launch Le Commandant Charcot in May 2021. As the first
luxury hybrid polar vessel, it will be powered by Liquefied Natural Gas and
electric battery. The ship will be able to reach the true North Pole at 90
degrees latitude.
NEW PARTNERSHIP
PONANT announced a new partnership with the Musée du Louvre to bring Paris to the sea with two new sailings in the Adriatic and Persian Gulf departing in August and November 2020 respectively. In collaboration with PONANT, onboard programming will be carefully designed with curators and department directors from the Louvre for guests to discover the ancient lands that have inspired the museum’s collections.
NEW ITINERARIES
NORTH AMERICA: PONANT will have a new eight-day itinerary from
Alaska to British Columbia. As the leader in
luxury polar expeditions, PONANT is the authority on traversing the
northern icy waters. On the July 22, 2020 departure, Le Soléal will travel along
the Tracy Arm Fjord, amidst dramatic cliffs that rise more than 3,000 feet on
either side. Travelers will then explore smaller inlets on the coast where
guests can see humpback whales, cascading waterfalls and neon blue
glaciers.
EUROPE: PONANT will have eight ships exploring Europe’s
coastline on more than 15 new itineraries. Among the highlights is a
nine-night, music-themed cruise in September 2020 that will cover the rich
cultural heritage of Northern Europe accompanied by world-class chamber
musicians performing an all-Beethoven repertoire. The sailing coincides with a
worldwide celebration of Beethoven’s 250th birthday. In warmer
waters, new Mediterranean sailings will include trips between Athens and Venice
and voyages through the Aegean Sea.
ASIA: Le Jacques Cartier – one of the line’s newest vessels – will
debut five Asia sailings in fall and winter 2020. The ship, which features the
industry-first Blue Eye lounge, is set to travel through the Persian Gulf and
Gulf of Oman on an eight-night journey that makes stops in Muscat, Dubai, Abu
Dhabi and Doha among other smaller ports, like Sur, Khasab and Sir Bani
Yas. Meanwhile a new itinerary on Le Lapérouse will
depart from Mumbai on December 28, 2020 and continue south to the atolls in the
Maldives before concluding in Sri Lanka.
AFRICA: Guests will be able to see the Seychelles like
never before as Le Bougainville and its underwater lounge
embark on a selection of new expeditions in the region beginning in December
2019. The ship will make a new port of call each day. Suspended in the
Indian Ocean, the atolls are only accessible by boat. In addition to exploring
UNESCO World Heritage sites, there will be opportunities to spot wildlife, like
the indigenous Aldabra tortoises, weighing up to 550 pounds.
WORLDWIDE: In 2020, PONANT will continue to offer a series
of themed cruises that feature onboard speakers and tailored shore excursions
that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into the history of the
destinations. Each of the six different itineraries will touch on a different
topic with highlights including a birding trip through Costa Rica, a culinary
sailing that circumnavigates Sicily, and a voyage through the Baltic Sea with
leading policy makers, including former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO Admiral James Stavridis.
Established in 1988 by
Jean Emmanuel Sauvée and a dozen officers from the French Merchant Navy, PONANT
offers a style of sea travel which combines exceptional itineraries with luxury
hotel services aboard smaller-scale ships. In 2021 PONANT will launch Le
Commandant Charcot, the first electric hybrid cruise ship with luxury
appointments, yet another pioneering development in polar exploration. It
will be the first ship to reach the true geographic North Pole.
For more information on PONANT’s worldwide itineraries to the Arctic, Antarctica as well as in the Atlantic and North Europe, Asia, Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean, Eastern Asia, Oceania, Central and South America, visit www.ponant.com, call l 1-844-747-2873 or contact your travel advisor.
Backyard Travel, a boutique private tour operator specializing in tours around Asia, introduced a new family-friendly adventure through magical Siem Reap.
Bangkok, Thailand – Backyard Travel, a boutique private tour operator specializing in tours around Asia, introduced a new family-friendly adventure through magical Siem Reap.
The seven-day Cambodia with Kids tour introduces young explorers and their families to the wonders of ancient Khmer civilization, and the bucolic landscapes that surround Siem Reap.
The journey begins at Angkor Wat, where a private tour gives kids a close-up view of its elaborate Hindu carvings and lets them explore its hidden chambers and halls. Angkor expeditions continue with a walking temple trek that loops around Angkor Thom and the iconic Bayon Temple, with stops at the Terrace of the Elephants and the Pool of Ablutions.
Adventures continue outside of Angkor, with a cycling tour through rice-paddy countryside and a trip to the Tonle Sap lake for lunch in a local stilt house. In Banteay Chhmar, families get to experience village life with a homestay, and learn traditional rice farming, fishing and beekeeping.
On return to Siem Reap, families can enjoy some free time to rest or explore, or choose an optional activity such as zip lining, horse riding, or quad-bike riding. The tour ends on an acrobatic note with a performance by Phare, The Cambodia Circus.
“Siem
Reap is a perfect destination for families,” says Backyard Travel General
Manager Trystan Trestchenkoff, “It’s got exciting ancient history,
hands-on cultural activities and a whole host of experiences that specifically
cater to younger travelers. Pair this with Backyard Travel’s years of
experience creating dedicated family tours and you’ve got an unforgettable trip
for guests of all ages.”
Luxury Gold launches exclusive 2020 Themed Journeys with culinary focus
As the era of food tourism continues
to grow, Luxury Gold, the worldwide leader in luxury guided journeys, is launching
new and exclusive 2020 Culinary & Cultural Discoveries Themed Journeys.
Today’s traveler focuses on the how to eat aspect of their
culinary travels and seeks immersive experiences in unique settings. Continuing
to lead on this gastronomy trend, Luxury Gold’s new experiences take you on a
journey beyond the ordinary to explore distinct destinations that are rich in
cultural and culinary delights.
“With our ability to connect to
taste makers, we know that one of the best ways to get to know a destination is
through its memorable and unique cuisine and the sharing of stories,” said
Jon Grutzner, president of Luxury Gold. “Food is no longer a simple
pleasure, it exposes culture and traditions, allows for meaningful connections
and fosters memories. That’s why we’ve introduced these new Themed Journeys
which are in demand and with only one or two 2020 departures. Space is limited,
and clients need to book soon.”
You can enjoy these exclusive
Exceptional Dining and VIP experiences and relax at luxury hotels
while traveling on Luxury Gold’s exclusive
Themed Journeys:
Peru has been named the World’s
Leading Culinary Destination for 7 years consecutively by the World’s Travel
Awards and it’s no wonder as the country holds five of the world’s best
restaurants, including Mil by Virgilio Martinez. You’ll have the
opportunity to experience this renowned restaurant on this incredible itinerary
and experience Peru’s culinary diversity. A journey through the Andes reveals a
fresh farm-to-table meal at a working hacienda where guests will learn about
the many ingredients that are local to Peru, including over 4,000 varieties of
potatoes. You’ll savor the creative combinations thanks to the father
of Peru’s gastronomic revolution, Gaston Acurio, as he adds his
signature flair at Chicha, during a Celebration Dinner in Cusco. To
understand the history and significance of Machu Picchu, you’ll explore
alongside a Local Expert and witness one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient
World.Making travel matter with The TreadRight Foundation, clients
will also visit the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco (CTTC) to meet
local artisans including Nilda Callanaupa, a weaver, and bring home
the wonderful creations that women in this cooperative make by hand.
From an electrifying performance of
traditional tango in Argentina, to world-class vineyards and wineries,
the best Chilean restaurants and vistas from Valparaiso, the UNESCO
World Heritage city center, this journey pairs the cuisine, wine and culture of
Argentina and Chile perfectly. Expert guides offer an in-depth
exploration of the best vineyards in Mendoza, offering you the chance to
sample the New World’s best wines. Introducing Chilean ingredients, techniques
and products to the world, Rodolfo Guzmán is the mastermind behind
Chile’s best restaurant, Borago, and clients experience his innovative dishes
while in Santiago. From edible coral
mushroom, to venison tartare, duck hearts grilled in duck fat, you can expect
to find these unique and typical dishes over dinner.
You’ll immerse yourselves in Athens
as though you’re local Athenians. Discover the colorful tastes of Greece
by dining seaside at Greece’s first Michelin-rated restaurant located
on a boat that is based on land. You’ll learn the art of making the perfect
Greek coffee at a local kafenio (Greek café) in Athens before enjoying a VIP
Experience in the afternoon, where you’ll meet a world-class Athenian
scholar and philosopher in the Ancient Agora to understand how ancient
Greek philosophy affects our lives today. You’ll also travel to the island of
Delos to enjoy a private guided visit to the birthplace of Apollo and
learn about traditional farming methods in Mykonos after
visiting a traditional farmstead before indulging in a freshly prepared organic
meal.
To book a journey, contact your
local travel advisor, call 888-862-5952 or visit www.luxurygold.com.
Luxury Gold guests can take a gentle hike to the Taskshang Monastery in Bhutan
With
its ancient cultures, mountainous backdrops, and oasis of tranquility, Nepal
and Bhutan each hold a wealth of centuries-old stupas and temples. Recently
described as a “once in a lifetime journey” by the United States Tour Operators
Association (USTOA) and AFAR Magazine ambassador, Luxury Gold’s Magnificent Nepal and Bhutan journeyis nothing short of an “A-list”
bucket-list experience ifor travelers seeking authenticity, exploration and
cultural immersion.
“I was met with this sort of awe each moment of my journey with Luxury Gold, as our Traveling Concierge kept my journal occupied, and my camera at the ready,” said AFAR Magazine ambassador, Ryan Neal Cordwell, in his recent USTOA blog. “It isn’t only the absorption of undiluted insight, but the ability to participate interactively, that stamps this page of the world with gold.”
Luxury Gold’s dedicated and knowledgeable Traveling Concierges, VIP treatment, delectable dining, and immersive, local experiences bring together the true beauty of this enchanting region.
As
a VIP experience in Kathmandu, meet with the monks of Boudhanath
stupa for a private puja (blessing) ceremony. Hear traditional chanting,
drumming and tales of the monks lives inside the temple. You’ll be cherished by
this visit by being blessed by the monks. Later, meet a local pottery
craftsman who will explain the traditions and processes of their
works, before guiding you to try for yourself.
While
in Paro, choose a private traditional mask dance and cultural
show or learn about the passion the Bhutanese have for the national
sport of archery, attending a range to interact with the locals. You can
also join a gentle hike to Taktshang Monastery known as
the Tiger’s Nest.
In
Thimphu, you’re invited into the home of a local family for a delicious
home-cooked meal of typical regional fare. Visit the National Memorial
Chorten, dedicated to world peace, along with Tasichho Dzong, known
as the fortress of the glorious religion. Visit the bustling market, an
opportunity to mix with the locals.
In
Punakha, stay at the luxurious Dhensa Boutique Resort, which
sits in lush Punakha Valley and offers spectacular views. Visit the winter
residence of the monk body that is also the capital of Bhutan – Punakha
Dzong and can walk to Chimi Lhakhang temple and
admire the magnificent views over the Losesa Valley.
At
the Dochula Pass, participate in a prayer flag hoisting ceremony,
an integral part of Bhutanese landscape. It is believed that when prayer flags
flutter, they carry a blessing to everyone around.
Luxury
Gold is bringing back the golden era of travel with the launch of their
worldwide collection by offering a 10% Early Payment Discount if
you book and pay in full by December 18, 2019.
For reservations, contact your local Travel Advisor, call 1-888-428-1503, or visit www.luxurygold.com.
Tour the sun-kissed vineyards of Tuscany on Luxury Gold’s Ultimate Italy journey.
From now until Nov. 8, Luxury Gold is offering exclusive air offers on journeys to Europe and Egypt and receive $150 off per person on economy, $200 off per person on premium economy and $300 off per person on business class with American Airlines, British Airways, Finnair and Iberia. These are valid for departure periods from now to May 31, 2020, and Sept. 1, 2020 to Nov. 15, 2020.
In addition to the air offer, guests can receivea 10% Early Payment Discount on trips to Europe if they book and pay in full by December 18, 2019.
Now is the perfect time for travelers to get the best deals
possible with the biggest choice of journeys and departure dates.
On Luxury Gold’s journeys to Europe and Egypt,
travelers will open their minds to the luxuries of exceptional Michelin-star dining,
VIP experiences, small group travel and top-notch hotels. From dining at
critically acclaimed restaurants, to meeting important locals, to going behind-the-scenes
to iconic sites and much more, Luxury Gold offers enriching and authentic
experiences in small groups.
Travelers can explore Europe and Egypt in exquisite luxury
on these journeys and more:
Ultimate Italy (12-days): Travelers will delve into the marvelous country of
Italy on this classic and romantic journey. In the Eternal City of Rome, guests
will have VIP access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel with an
expert guide to marvel at the timeless Papal art collection. In Tuscany, guests
will delight in a tasting of rare Super Tuscan wines in the underground
cellar of Machiavelli’s home before enjoying a light Farm-to-Table lunch.
In Venice, they’ll discover the secrets of the Venetian Republic on a private
evening tour of the Doge’s Palace with a local expert. Along the way
at the Isle of Capri, they’ll take in exclusive views of the
Gulf of Naples from the privileged perch of Michelin-starred
Mammà, enjoy a private cruise around the island to
see its hidden coves and grottos, and admire the famous Faraglioni
Rocks from the gardens of Caesar Augustus. For an
immersive experience, guests will meet Marta at her artisanal workshop in Perugia,
to discover the medieval tradition of loom-weaving and how it is being
preserved by the TreadRight Foundation grant.
New Journey – Elegance of the Pharaohs (10 days):Guests
will begin this extraordinary journey to this enchanting land of the Pharaohs
in Cairo at the luxurious Mena House Hotel with guaranteed
Pyramid-view rooms. They will join an expert Egyptologist and venture inside
the Great Pyramids and admire the mysterious Great Sphinx. Guests will also
explore the renowned Egyptian Museum with its ancient treasures including
priceless artifacts from the Tomb of Tutankhamun. The adventure continues
with guests traveling onwards to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of
Luxor to embark on a five-day cruise on the most luxurious ship
on the Nile, the River Tosca with its beautifully
appointed all-suite rooms. They will unwind with an onboard gala reception and
dinner. They will also enjoy exclusive VIP Experiences including a
visit the Temple of Luxor after it has been closed to the public. One of
the Journey Highlights includes traveling to a Nubian
village and meeting a local family in their traditional dwelling where
they will demonstrate regional bread-making process. They will follow in the footsteps of Agatha
Christie and Winston Churchill as they experience a colonial
English-style high tea at Aswan’s Old Cataract Hotel’s terrace during sunset.
Harmony of Central Europe (13 days): Take a journey into the past, with our
showcase of the grandest and most opulent cities of old Europe. From Prague to
Budapest, guests will marvel at the spirit of former empires and regal
grandeur. They’ll walk in the footsteps of six-year-old Mozart at an after-hours
visit to the baroque Schönbrunn Palace, indulge with dinner at one
of Vienna’s amazing Michelin-starred restaurants, and enjoy a
private sparkling wine cruise on the glittering River Danube. Along the way,
guests will witness a private recital of Chopin’s classic works, taste fine
wines and stay in stately hotels. On select Chairman’s Collection departure
dates guests will have the pleasure of meeting a descendant of the famous
Habsburgs, Princess Anita Von Hohenberg at her home– the beautiful
Artstetten Castle. Princess Anita will talk to them about her fascinating
life and heritage over an exclusive sparkling wine reception.
As global leaders in luxury travel with expertise accumulated over nearly 100 years, Luxury Gold epitomizes extraordinary exploration to some of the world’s most spectacular destinations. To find out more, visit www.luxurygoldvacations.com.
Created
as a joint initiative between The Travel Corporation’s (TTC) family of brands, The TreadRight
Foundation is a not-for-profit that works to help ensure the environment and
communities we visit remain vibrant for generations to come. Founded by Brett
Tollman, Chief Executive, TTC, to date TreadRight has supported more than 40
sustainable tourism projects worldwide. To learn more about our past and current
work at TreadRight, visit TreadRight.org.
Dunluce Castle, Antrim. Vagabond Adventure Tours creates opportunities for visitors to embrace Ireland by walking, biking, horseback riding and kayaking its lands and waters, imbibing history and culture along the way.
COUNTY WICKLOW, Ireland– With the European Union’s approval, Britain has received an extension to its exit (Brexit) until 31 January 2020. Rob Rankin, founder and owner Vagabond Small Group Tours of Ireland, is taking a wait-and-see-attitude concerning the UK Parliament’s vote to uphold or not the exit date that could change how the UK does business with Europe — and also on the Emerald Isle.
Maybe Brexit will be washed down the drain over a toast with its trading bloc partners since 1993. Maybe not. In the meantime Rankin’s team offers a list of ideas to visitors to Ireland who may want to know what the fuss is all about. In Dublin, the gateway city for Vagabond Small Group Tours of Ireland, historic attractions are two-a-penny. Guests are invited to discover for themselves the bullet holes on the General Post Office that betray its role at the heart of the 1916 Easter Rising. The National Museum is housed in a former barracks. Glasnevin Cemetery holds an array of independence heroes and an excellent museum.
Highly recommended in Belfast is an on-own Black Cab tour that offers a unique perspective on the capital of Northern Ireland. Guests listen to expert personal commentary on a guided tour through unionist and nationalist communities, learning about the late 20th century ‘The Troubles’ while viewing political murals and signing names to a peace wall.
Itineraries encompassing Derry include a guided walking tour around the historic walled city of Derry/Londonderry that showcases the Guild Hall and a siege cannon while shedding light on the nationalist neighborhood where the Northern Irish Civil Rights movement was born in the late 1960s, leading to a virtual 30-year war between Catholics and Protestants.
And other itineraries including Cork, also known as the Rebel County, share stories of the action here during the early 1920s War of Independence and ensuing Civil War. Michael Collins was ambushed and assassinated at Béal na Bláth. Picturesque Cobh was a center of resistance in 1916.
“It’s a no-brainer to say that this ours is a complicated history,” adds Rankin. Vagabond Tours of Ireland assists its guests in scratching the surface of the history of why there are two separate Irelands. This history goes back well into the 16th century when the island was like a piece of fabric being stretched between Gaelic-speaking Catholics and the English who spoke English and who were eventually predominantly Protestant.
“Today Brexit has become our own three-legged milking stool,” Rankin explains. The three legs are:
European Union (EU) – since 1993 a commerce-driven alliance of European nations, the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom.
United Kingdom (UK) – inclusive of Great Britain (Scotland,
Wales, England) and Northern Ireland (six counties that are culturally British
out of an overall 32 counties on the island). This bloc known as the UK has
voted to disengage from the EU because of a perception that the UK doesn’t
enjoy full sovereignty in the EU.
Republic of Ireland – represents 26 of 32 counties on the
Emerald Isle, is not part of the UK bloc and enjoys 80% to 90% support for
continuing its own EU membership. The Republic of Ireland fought and won
independence from the UK from 1916 to 1921. The six counties in the northern
part of Ireland demanded that their union with the UK and the British crown
remain intact, resulting in Northern Ireland. When the UK voted to remove
itself (Brexit) from the EU, the independent country Republic of Ireland
determined to remain within the EU.
Customs and tariff protocols between the Republic of Ireland
(EU) and Northern Ireland (UK) have been operational and peaceful for nearly
two decades. Residents and visitors to Ireland and the UK enjoy visa-free
travel to each other’s countries. All sides have agreed that this situation
will continue post-Brexit.
What is of concern, adds Rankin, is that without a so-called backstop built
into the negotiations, the now a ‘soft’ border between the Northern Ireland and
the Republic of Ireland could once again become a ‘hard’ border that in turn
could pick at century-old scars. The relationship between the Republic of
Ireland and Northern Ireland has steadily improved since the landmark peace
accord of 1998. What’s known as the Good Friday Agreement ended paramilitary
activity and customs infrastructure at north/south border crossing points. The
British army was removed from Northern Ireland.
No matter Brexit’s outcome – or not – Rankin and his team are high on 2020
bookings, already strong.
“We envisage no major disruption. The bright side is, we hope, more opportunity
to explain Irish history,” he says.
Vagabond Small Group Tours of Ireland offers two styles of culturally immersive
travel. Vagabond Adventure Tours (the
division hosting the Epic Irish Food Adventure Tour) are for active travelers
who want to mix up hiking, kayaking and biking and other outdoor adventures
with history, culture, dining and shopping. Driftwood Journeys of Discovery follow
similar itineraries but at an intimate and in-depth looking and lingering pace,
sans the physical exertion.
On all of its tours, Vagabond staff curate locally owned accommodations, pubs
and restaurants that help serve their goal of authenticity. In the end the
mission is to have guests “love Ireland as much as we do.” Transport is in a
custom Mercedes ‘Vagatron’ or special mini-buses which allow access beyond
where regular tour buses go.
For details on all of Vagabond Small Group Tours of Ireland itineraries,
availability and for 2019 reservations, visit https://vagabondtoursofireland.com/. Call toll
free (from the US) 1.833-230-0288; in Ireland 00353 (0) 1 5634358; or
email: [email protected].
Since 2002 Vagabond Adventure Tours has been creating opportunities for
visitors to embrace Ireland by walking, biking, horseback riding and kayaking
its lands and waters, imbibing history and culture along the way. In 2013 the
company was honored by National Geographic Traveler with a Top
50 Tour of a Lifetime distinction. In 2015 and 2017 Vagabond Small Group Tours
of Ireland was named the “Best Adventure Experience” at the Irish Tourism
Awards. In 2017, Vagabond became Ireland’s first tour operator to achieve
Ecotourism Gold Level Certification. In 2018, Vagabond Tours won The Green
Tourism & Entertainment category in Ireland’s most prestigious Green
(business) Awards. And in February 2019, the company won two top Irish Tourism
Industry Awards for the Best Ireland Ancient East Tourism Experience and Best
Environmental Tourism Innovation.
Delight your loved ones with wine
under the Tuscan sun, a cruise over the turquoise-blue waters of Greece or even
a private tour of the magnificent architecture of ancient Egypt. When they travel
with Insight Vacations, they won’t just see a destination, they’ll meet it,
feel it and taste it. Insight Vacations creates the opportunity to experience countries in depth with deliciously authentic dining, immersive
experiences with locals and hand-picked, luxurious hotels— located
in the heart of the destination. Our passionate Travel Directors will be with
you every step of the way providing a seamless, magical and unforgettable
experience.
Insight Vacations is offering 10%
off trips with its popular Early Payment Discount on trips to Europe for those
who book and pay in full by December 18, 2019. In addition, past guests and
Club Bon Voyage Members can save up to 5%.
By choosing flights with
American Airlines, British Airways, Finnair and Iberia, you can save $150 off
per person on Economy, $200 off per person on Premium Economy or $300 off per
person on Business Class on departures to Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean,
Egypt and Morocco from Oct. 1, 2019 to May 31, 2020, and Sept. 1, 2020
to Nov. 15, 2020.
Insights’ immersive trips to Europe,
the Eastern Mediterranean, Egypt include:
Best of Italy (11 days):Showcasing
Italy’s grandest attractions, this remarkable journey takes guests to historic
landmarks with a local expert such as the Vatican Museum, the Bramante
Staircase, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. In Tuscany, guests
experience a guided visit through the house of the Italian Renaissance
diplomat and writer, Niccolò Machiavelli, with a special opening of
his private office where he wrote “The Prince.” Afterwards, guests taste
wines made from vineyards surrounding the home. They’ll also visit the
Italian garden for a view of Florence’s iconic domed cathedral and explore
the historic cellar connected to one of the oldest restaurants in Italy
by a secret tunnel. On Giudecca Island, guests will admire the
age-old skill of glassblowing by skilled artisans at an arts center,
and in Venice they will ride on a gondola while being serenaded through
the historic canals under starry skies. Travelers also take a private
cruise to the Isle of sun-kissed Capri to enjoy breathtaking views of
the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Wonders of Egypt (9 days): Guests
begin this spectacular journey by visiting the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and
viewing the treasures of Tutankhamun with Insight’s professionally
trained Egyptologist. They experience the splendor of the Great Pyramids
and venture inside one of the inner chambers before gazing upon the
mythical Great Sphinx. Clients then take a scenic flight to Luxor,
where they explore the massive temple complex of Karnak before boarding their
cruise ship then visiting the Temple of Luxor, a UNESCO World Heritage site. On
the west bank of the Nile they’ll explore the Temple of Hatshepsut and
the Valley of the Kings, home to the magnificent tombs of Egypt’s
pharaohs, and visit a working bakery to watch local artisans
making authentic Egyptian bread. The following evening clients experience
a traditional Egyptian dinner and galabeya party, and on the final
day they see the imposing Aswan High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the
majestic Temple of Isis. The trip ends with a ride in a traditional
Nile felucca, where clients learn about the art of sailing this ancient
craft from a local sailor.
For more information, contact Insight Vacations at 800-582-8380 or visit www.insightvacations.com.
On
one issue I take exception to the courageous climate activist, Greta Thunberg:
travel – even airline travel – is not the enemy of the climate action crusade,
travel is its best ally. She may have taken two weeks to sail the Atlantic to
reach the United Nations Climate Action Summit, but the thousands of diplomats
and heads of state she scolded and shamed into action, could not.
“What would happen if we
stopped traveling, stopped flying? Would we save the planet or unleash a global
conservation crisis? There would be global conservation crisis,” asserted Costas
Christ, chairman of The TreadRight Foundation, a philanthropy created by The
Travel Corporation’s 42 brands, to preserve and protect the planet, people and
wildlife.
Christ, who came out of
the Wildlife Conservation Society, pointed to the three great forests on the
planet – New Guinea, Amazon Basin, Central African rainforest including Gabon. But
in the early 2000s, Gabon’s economy was dependent on mining and timber
concessions.
The Wildlife
Conservation Society went to Gabon’s president and said, “If you continue
mining, cutting trees, the party is over in 50 years, but if put aside area for
conservation, travelers will come, alleviate poverty and save the forest – your
great grandchildren will be able to make their livelihood here.
“With stroke of Gabon
President’s pen, he created 11 national parks, protecting 13 million acres –
Travel Matters,” Christ said. “Travel is
the alternative to exploitation – preserve and protect instead of poach and
encroach.”
“If travelers did not go to the African
continent, the future would be unrelenting poverty. Travel is hope,
conservation.”
Colombia, where The
Travel Corporation has introduced new travel programs, is one of the 30 places
on the planet which are the “Noah’s Ark of Life,” a biodiversity hot spot harboring
one out of 10 species.
“If we are able to help Colombia protect its natural
resources we will protect the second largest biodiverse place on the
planet.”
“We make an impact when
travel supports conservation, protects wildlife and alleviates poverty. Travel
matters when it is planned, managed well, sustainable. Then magic happens – we
deliver on our promise to make the world a better place.
It is significant that
travel benefits the destinations, but travel also enriches individuals, in a
mutually virtuous circle.
What is wanderlust and why
do we seek out other places? Christ asks. Marco Polo understood. So did John
Steinbeck, who, in
his Pulitzer-Prize winning book, wrote:
A journey
is a person in itself; no two are alike.
And all plans, safeguards, policies and coercion are
fruitless.
We find after years of struggle that we do not take a trip;
a trip takes us.
Mark Twain, who actually was a travel writer, wrote in “The
Innocents Abroad,” “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and
narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts.
Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by
vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.”
Costas Christ
traveled to meet the Dalai Lama, who travels constantly, to ask ‘Why travel?.’ “He said, ‘in ancient Tibetan ‘gropa’ is
the word for human being, but the literal meaning is ‘one who goes on
migrations.’ We define the essence of being human to travel – to travel is to
be human.
“We think of the word
‘progress’ as hitting goals, but to pro-gress is a kind of travel. In Middle English,
“progress” means “to go on a seasonal journey” – so success is a journey,
success is linked to travel.”
The TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organization created 10 years ago as a joint initiative between The Travel Corporation’s (TTC) family of brands, takes a percentage of profit from 42 companies to make sure goes to projects that make a difference. TreadRight supports 55 projects in 280 communities in 26 countries in three basic categories: planet, people and wildlife.
TTC, a member of the World Travel & Tourism Council, is
joining in a commitment for the industry – which accounts for one in 10 jobs
around the world and accounts for 10% of the global economy, to become carbon
neutral by 2050. TTC will also take steps to eliminate plastics through its
supply chain, and reduce carbon emissions.
“We’re committed to be carbon neutral before 2050 and not through carbon offsets. Carbon is what’s destroying climate, not offsets,” Brett Tollman, Chief Executive, The Travel Corporation and Founder, The TreadRight Foundation. said at a reception marking TreadRight’s 10 years.
“We are at an unfortunate tipping point, where unless we careful, this industry will be the poster for all that’s bad,” he said. “We have the opportunity to make change, but we have to be courageous.”
But though travel –
particularly airline travel – does have a carbon cost (until the technologies
improve), not traveling would be far worse for the quest of saving the planet
and communities from the impacts of climate change and promoting a more just
society.
Christ points to places devastated
by climate catastrophe that have rebounded because of tourism, communities and
cultures destroyed by war and conflict, like Bosnia and Croatia, rebuild and
thrive because of the economic support of travel dollars.
For example, working with the Jordan tourism Board, TreadRight
supports the Queen Noor Iraq Alamei, a
cooperative that employs women as potters and artisans – giving women jobs
outside the home but within the village. With TreadRight support, the
cooperative built up a gift shop and opened an Air BnB.
New
travel programs in Colombia help create a wildlife nursery and install solar
panels, while another program in Sierra Nevada, through Trafalgar, creates an opportunity
for visitors to be hosted by a family.
“Travel
is an incredible gift. It has the ability to open our eyes to the unique
cultures and spellbinding beauty of the natural world. But with this gift comes
a responsibility – to protect the world as we know it. At TreadRight, our
mission is clear; to have a positive impact on the people and communities we
visit, to protect wildlife and marine life, and to care for the planet we call
home.”
Craig
Kielburger, the co-founder of WE charity, explained how Treadright’s family of
travel companies is partnering with We.org, which builds schools, promotes
sustainable agriculture, brings pure water to communities – to offer programs
in which travelers can immerse themselves into that community.
In partnership
with ME to WE, travelers have the opportunity to visit three iconic
destinations: India, the Ecuadorian Amazon and Kenya. In conjunction with TTC,
guests can book ME to WE Immersive Volunteer Trip extensions on upcoming set
departure dates or as a requested custom trip. Travelers stay among local communities in comfortable
lodges, owned and operated by ME to WE. All meals, ground transfers,
transportation and local sightseeing excursions hosted by an expert facilitator
are included.
You
can run with the Masai, help build a school, see what it feels like to have to
carry water barrels on your back; stay in a family’s home in Ecuador; in India,
visit an elephant rescue preserve instead of riding on one. (See TreadRight.org site, https://www.TreadRight.org/trips/).
“Travel is a privilege,”
said Celine Cousteau, a documentary filmmaker and TreadRight Ambassador and
storyteller. “Experience places and people, become a part of who they are.
Travel fosters profound change. Travelers become storytellers. Traveling on an
airplane has a carbon footprint, yes, but the value it brings more than
compensates. Travel is an opportunity to
bring a thriving economy, conserve, preserve. Make a choice to do good and if
travel, make it count.”
TTC’s ‘Make Travel Matter’ Pledge
TreadRight has made
#maketravelmatter its mission and its theme and on this year’s World Tourism
Day, made this pledge:
“This World Tourism Day, Friday, September 27th, 2019, engaged citizens will examine the positive impact travel has on the globe and TreadRight is making its commitment public to Make Travel Matter,” the company stated.
Inspired by Palau’s First Lady, Debbie
Remengesau who introduced the Palau Pledge, every one of TTC’s 10,000 team
members and 42 companies worldwide are committing to make travel matter, with
its new official pledge standing to help protect people, planet and wildlife.
In celebration of World Tourism Day, all members of TTC’s family of brands will
use the opportunity to stand up and personally commit to share TreadRight’s
ethos as travelers, as travel providers and as members of the global travel
industry.
“Our Make Travel Matter Pledge is another step on our journey and an impactful one as it further solidifies our commitment to helping protect the destinations we work with, its communities and local wildlife,” Tollman said. “As responsible travelers, TreadRight’s ethos has become part of our company’s DNA and what we stand for, and we share our pledge with our guests as well as partners in hopes they will join us.”
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER PLEDGE
I will make my travel matter –
for our planet, for people and for wildlife.
When I explore this planet, I
will do my best to TreadRight.
I will refuse single use
plastics when I can and recycle what I cannot avoid.
When possible, I will offset my
travels.
When I meet new people, I will
honor their home as I do my own and do so in the spirit of diversity and
inclusion. I will purchase locally made items wherever possible and pay a fair
price.
When I experience wildlife, I will do so in nature.
I will not ride animals that
ought not be ridden, nor support animal cruelty in any way.
Together, we will TreadRight
upon the earth – and we will make our travel matter.
For more information about TTC, visit www.ttc.com.
TreadRight
is not the only entity that facilitates authentic, transformative, responsible travel
experiences – there is a whole travel industry subcategory, many represented by
Center for Responsible
Travel (responsibletravel.org), Global
Sustainable Tourism Council (gstcouncil.org), Earthcheck
(earthcheck.org) and the Rainforest Alliance (https://www.rainforest-alliance.org).
