Category Archives: family-friendly adventures

Beach destinations, family-friendly adventures

Ko’A Kea Resort on Po’Pu Beach, Kauai Debuts ‘Blissful Beginnings’ BabyMoon Package

Regarded one of the most romantic hotels in the world, Ko’a Kea Resort curated its new “Blissful Beginnings” babymoon experience for growing families to connect and unwind in the intimate, scenic setting before their little one arrives. (photo: Meritage Collection)

Koloa, Hawaii- Koʻa Kea Resort on Poʻipu Beach, Kauai’s closest accommodations to the waterfront, launches Blissful Beginnings, a babymoon accommodations package designed to offer expecting parents a serene escape as they prepare for an exciting new chapter. Regarded one of the most romantic hotels in the world, Ko’a Kea Resort curated the experience for growing families to connect and unwind in the intimate, scenic setting before their little one arrives. 

“Our award-winning resort has long served as a sought-after destination for parents-to-be celebrating this special chapter in their lives,” said Garrett Busch, President of Pacific Hospitality Group. “With Blissful Beginnings as our newest babymoon offering, we are raising the bar – blending our intimate oceanfront setting with curated amenities that are thoughtfully designed to help expecting couples unwind and reconnect in new ways.” 

Those who add Blissful Beginnings to their reservation will enjoy accommodations in one of Koʻa Kea Resort’s 121 spacious guestrooms and suites, specially outfitted with a cozy pregnancy pillow and a soothing belly balm to take home, ensuring the utmost comfort and optimal sleep experience for moms-to-be. The package also includes a 50-minute pregnancy massage The Spa at Ko’a Kea to relieve tension and promote serenity.  

Fully embracing the gentle rhythm of paradise, Blissful Beginning guests will have access to a private daybed at Koʻa Kea Resort’s ocean-view pool, where they can soak up Vitamin D on Kauai’s sunniest locale. The package includes a $25 credit for mocktails for expecting parents to indulge in the resort’s handcrafted beverages, either poolside or at the resort’s award-winning Red Salt restaurant. 

To capture this precious moment, guests can add a 20-minute maternity photoshoot with Kauai Beach Photography. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Poʻipu Beach, the intimate session includes ten beautifully edited photos, preserving unforgettable memories long after their stay. 

Blissful Beginnings guests will also take home a blue whale onesie by MILKBARN® Kids, a one-of-a-kind collection of organic and bamboo baby goods, serving as a special keepsake to remember the stay by. 

Beyond the Blissful Beginnings package, guests will enjoy taking strolls along Poʻipu Beach, exploring the island via the resort’s on-site Tesla rentals, and dining at Red Salt. With sweeping palm-tree lined ocean views, the renowned restaurant is helmed by Kauai native Executive Chef Noelani Planas, who creates masterful dishes inspired by her island upbringing, with a twist on classic techniques.  

Koʻa Kea Resort’s Master of Moons – the resort’s dedicated concierge for ‘moon’ celebrations for all life cycles (babymoons, ‘engagementmoons,’ ‘buddymoons’) – is available to craft itineraries with experiences both on and off property. The Master of Moons is at the ready to share handpicked babymoon-friendly recommendations, from local boutiques to healthy dining options. 

For more information on Koʻa Kea Resort’s Blissful Beginnings, visit koakea.com. There is a three-night minimum. Use promo code PKGBBY to book. 

Koʻa Kea Resort  is part of the Meritage Collection, a lifestyle and luxury hotel brand that blends iconic, one-of-a-kind places with locally inspired experiences designed for the curious traveler. Debuted in 2013, Meritage Collection is comprised of four hotels & resorts throughout California, Texas and Hawaii – The Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa Valley, Paséa Hotel & Spa in Huntington Beach, Hotel Viata in Austin and Ko’a Kea Resort on Po’ipu Beach in Kauai. Reflective of its California roots, the Meritage Collection offers a laid-back luxury service culture that caters to the modern-day traveler.

For more information, visitmeritagecollection.com. 

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

Slovenia Through Kids’ Eyes: Unforgettable Summer Adventures for Families

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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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, family-friendly adventures

Backroads Introduces New Active Adventures for Families for Summer

Backroads, a leader in active travel, has introduced several family summer programs including a Croatia & Slovenia Family Multi-Adventure Tour © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Berkeley, CA – Backroads, a leader in active travel, urges parents to book their family’s summer vacation now while the best selection of trips and dates are still available. Busy families know that come March, summer calendars fill up fast with activities, events and commitments, and managing the logistics can feel like a full-time job. With over three decades of experience handling all the details of family travel, and with expert Trip Leaders ready to bring the magic, Backroads helps parents get that summer vacation piece effortlessly into place. Backroads’ latest release of Family Trips includes adventures in the US, French Alps, Netherlands & Belgium, Croatia & Slovenia and beyond.

Backroads Family Trips offer just the right combination of flexibility and activity options for kids of all ages, as well as for parents and grandparents to ensure that everyone has a great time exploring and bonding over a shared love of travel. And as the only travel company offering Family Trips for three distinct age groups―Families with Kids & Teens, Teens & 20s, and 20s & Beyond―Backroads makes it easy for everyone in the family to connect with travelers their own age, a wonderful dynamic that makes Backroads trips even more unique.

“Summer vacation is a great time to get away, reconnect and create family memories together,” said Tom Hale, Founder, President and CEO of Backroads, “and I understand how challenging it can be for families to fit fun into their busy schedules. At Backroads, we’re excited to bring the family fun in 2025 and make it easier than ever for families to find a trip that’s right for them.”

Backroads Multi-Adventure Family Trips —some with and some without biking—feature a combination of activities from hiking and watersports to horseback riding, rock climbing, zip-lining and more. Check out a sampling of Backroads’ new 2025 summer trips for families:

For more information—including last-minute Spring Break trips—travelers can visit https://www.backroads.com/why/traveler/family and check out Backroads’ entire collection of Biking, Multi-Adventure and Walking & Hiking Trips for families.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, family-friendly adventures, Outdoors Travel, rafting trips

The Best Chance to Lock in Space on a 2025 Grand Canyon Raft Trip is Now

Western River’s reservations team has opened reservations for river rafting itineraries in the Grand Canyon that begin in 2025 as early as April and continue through September.

SALT LAKE CITY, UT– The scramble for seats on the world’s most coveted river rafting vacations in the Grand Canyon begins on Tuesday, Nov. 28, at 6 p.m. Mountain Time (5 p.m. Pacific, 7 p.m. Central and 8 p.m. Eastern), Western River Expeditions announced.
 
This annual event attract adventure lovers from around the country and around the world, who yearn to bag a seat on a coveted river rafting expedition through Arizona’s Grand Canyon.
 
“On Nov. 28 at 6 p.m. we’ll be taking reservations online, and at 9 am on Nov. 29, Western River’s reservations team will be available to take calls for river rafting itineraries that begin in 2025 as early as April and continue through the month of September,” explains Brandon Lake, co-owner and company CMO. “We encourage anyone interested to visit https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-raft-trips-2025 and join our email list for updates and reminders.”
 
This is the widely anticipated opportunity to secure reservations now for what many rafting aficionados consider one of the world’s ultimate river rafting experiences. These early bird booking dates are expected to secure reservations for up to 90 percent of Western River Expeditions’ 2025 Grand Canyon vacations inventory. Historically demand outpaces supply, and within hours of the reservation window opening, many departures are sold out. For trip details, please see visit Western’s Grand Canyon Rafting page.
 
“People ask us why we are taking reservations now for 2025; why not just focus on 2024?” says Lake. “Due to these high-demand trips, we must look two years ahead. Western’s 6- and 7-Day Grand Canyon trips for 2024 are sold out, and space is very limited in the upcoming season for shorter departures of 3 and 4 days. Travelers interested in possibly rafting the canyon in 2024 are still urged to call Western’s sales office. Because people book so far in advance, cancellations do happen. Getting your name on the waitlist is advised.”
 
The river rafting season on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon runs from April into September. The longer 6- and 7-day trips with the thrills of class III-V rapids are open to guests as young as 12. The minimum age is nine for 3- and 4-day trips that come with class II-III rapids. Western’s exclusive J-Rig raft provides accessibility for all levels of rafters on even the largest whitewater rapids in the Grand Canyon. Rafting trips include plenty of hiking in side canyons that allow access to waterfalls, slot canyons, native ruins, rock art, and geologic wonders that the 5 million or so casual hikers from the rim will simply never see.
 
For details on the trips, Western River Expeditions offers complimentary Expedition Guides in PDF format (https://www.westernriver.com/expedition-guide). The comprehensive guides include river maps, overviews, full itineraries, camping and weather information, details on physical requirements, packing lists, and more.
 
Grand Canyon trips are always in high demand and fill quickly. To protect the Canyon and maximize one’s enjoyment of nature, the National Park Service closely regulates the number of rafting participants traveling through the Grand Canyon each year, creating space limitations and a scramble for reservations. 
 
For those who are flexible and perhaps miss the boat on Grand Canyon reservations, two lesser-known options to rafting the Grand Canyon include a four-day trip through Cataract Canyon, often referred to as the “The Grand Canyon’s Younger Sister”.
 
“Utah’s Cataract Canyon, located deep within Canyonlands National Park, is near enough in scale, appearance and proximity to the Grand Canyon that it works the same kind of magic one will find in the Grand herself. Just a short distance upstream on the Colorado River System, this is hands down the best alternative to a Grand Canyon rafting vacation,” explains Lake.
 
“If you’re planning to travel with kids, an option that families often enjoy even more than Grand Canyon is a spectacular five-day family-oriented journey down Desolation Canyon on the Green River in Utah. This is a mellower but equally breathtaking rafting experience. Like Cataract, it also departs from Moab, Utah, and because it is lesser known, it has good availability for 2024,” he adds. 

Preview 2025 Grand Canyon dates & rates here

To access Grand Canyon reservations or obtain a copy of Western River Expeditions’ annual catalog, call toll-free: 866-904-1160 (Local: 801-942-6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.

Also, there is still limited availability on select departures in the Grand Canyon as well as some unforgettable experiences in Utah, Idaho, and Oregon. See them all at  www.westernriver.com.
 
Western River Expeditions is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).
 
Western River Expeditions was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. In 2023 the operator was chosen by the readers of USA Today 10 Best as the #2 rafting company in the nation. The company is also the recipient of the “Best of State” award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for the past 19 consecutive years (2004-2022).

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, family-friendly adventures

Backroads Offers Cure to Summertime Blues: An Active Family Adventure

Backroads: You can still book an active family adventure to iconic places like Yellowstone National Park © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

You can still book the perfect summer vacation in destinations across North America and Europe, including Wyoming, Maine, the Canadian Rockies, Iceland, France, Spain and Switzerland–Backroads

Backroads, a leader in active travel, released their top picks for a last-minute family adventure – the perfect antidote to summer doldrums and vacation procrastination. With a few clicks of the mouse or a phone call, families open the door to a world of possibility and discovery in iconic US national parks, such as Yosemite, Yellowstone, the Great Smoky Mountains and the Grand Canyon. Or they can venture farther from home to discover the natural beauty and rich cultures of France, Iceland, Switzerland and Canada, among other Backroads destinations. Whether it’s biking, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, exploring a cave dwelling, learning how to make mozzarella or kids-only fun, Backroads has options for every member of the family.

With over 30 years of experience in family travel, Backroads seamlessly handles the planning and logistics of hundreds of Biking, Walking & Hiking and Multi-Adventure vacations around the world. Parents trust Backroads to do the heavy lifting for an active summer vacation so they can just show up and have a blast with their kids. From riding family-friendly bike paths in the Czech Republic to saddling up for a horseback ride with local wranglers in Montana or kayaking in the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Mallorca, there’s never a dull moment on a Backroads family trip. The company’s commitment to excellence, its flexible itineraries and exceptional Trip Leaders set it apart in the active travel industry. Three or more leaders guide every trip so parents can enjoy some quality adult time while kids, teens and 20-somethings get to hang out with leaders and their peers.

Backroads guests consistently rave about experiencing an active vacation with likeminded travelers, and this is especially true for families. That’s why Backroads is the only travel company that offers Family Trips for three different age groups so families can experience the magic of traveling with other guests in similar life stages: Families with Teens & Kids (best for ages 9+), Families with Older Teens & 20s (one or more kids age 17+) and Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond (one or more kids age 20+). With summer—and perhaps college or other important rites of passage—on the horizon, it’s a great time to book a family vacation.

Snapshot of Backroads Family Trips with space available Include:

  • Basque Country Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Brittany & Normandy Bike Tour
  • Bryce, Zion & Grand Canyon Multi-Adventure Tour
  • California’s Yosemite Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Czech Republic & Austria Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Great Smoky Mountains Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Loire Valley Bike Tour
  • Maine’s Acadia Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Oregon’s Bend & the Cascades Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Portugal Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Spain’s Mallorca Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Spanish Pyrenees to Costa Brava Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Switzerland Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Wyoming’s Yellowstone & Tetons & Montana’s Big Sky Multi-Adventure Tour
  • Wyoming’s Yellowstone & Tetons Multi-Adventure Tour

“Getting away with your kids on a summer vacation is a great bonding experience no matter how old they are,” said Backroads Founder & President, Tom Hale. “Our kids grew up on Backroads trips and as they got older, I realized how important it was to have activities and meals designed for specific age groups. That’s why Backroads offers family trips for three distinct age categories. Teens and young adults want to engage with their peers, and the same goes for the younger ones. Meanwhile, parents are connecting with other parents, and there’s this great synergy happening between people in the same stage of life. Everyone’s just having a great time being active, spending time outdoors and learning and experiencing new things. We defy any kid to say they’re bored on a Backroads trip!”

Backroads was founded in 1979 by Tom Hale and has been a leading innovator in active and adventure travel for over 40 years. Guests join Backroads to bike, hike and so much more—on expertly planned active adventures highlighting the unique character of each destination. The company offers multiple ways to go active: Biking, Walking & Hiking and Multi-Adventure tours; Active Ocean & River Cruises, Active Safari, Active Culinary and Snow Adventures; and Dolce Tempo trips for travel at a more relaxed pace. Backroads also offers Private Trips and Family Trips designed for three distinct age groups: Families with Teens & Kids (best for ages 9+), Families with Older Teens & 20s (one or more kids age 17+) and Families with Young Adults 20s & Beyond (one or more kids age 20+). Repeat guests and referrals from past guests make up many of the travelers that Backroads hosts each year in hundreds of locations across the globe.

For the complete collection of Backroads Family Trips and more information, visit backroads.com or call 800-462-2848.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, family-friendly adventures, Outdoors Travel, rafting trips, Uncategorized

Western River Expeditions Offers Trips Down Utah’s Desolation Canyon, Rated One of America’s Top Rafting Adventures

A rafting adventure through Desolation Canyon is ideal for families with children as young as 5. Western River Expeditions offers weekly departures June through August.

SALT LAKE CITY, UT – Ranked one of the “The 25 Best New Trips” in the World by National Geographic Adventure and one of the “Best Whitewater Rafting Trips in America” by Outside Magazine, a 5-day rafting journey down this legendary canyon with Western River Expeditions in 2023 is something to seriously consider.
 
And this may be the year to do it. The snowpack covering the watersheds of the Green and Colorado rivers is 143.59% of the historic March 28th average. The best it has been in over ten years.
 
Whether a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, this 84-mile stretch of the Green River provides an unforgettable journey through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the American West. Here are 11 fun facts about Utah’s Desolation Canyon. 

  1. Utah’s Desolation Canyon, carved over millennia by the 730-mile Green River (spawned by glacial melts on the Continental Divide in the wilds of northern Wyoming), was traversed first in its entirety by the Smithsonian Institution that sent Major John Wesley Powell in 1869 to explore the canyon. 
  2. Nearly 100 years later, Desolation Canyon, one of the most remote areas in the lower 48 states, was named a National Historic Landmark in 1968 as part of the centennial celebration of the Powell expedition. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). 
  3. Desolation Canyon and the surrounds of its accompanying Green River compose one of the most remote (no roads, towns, cell service) destinations in the continental United States. 
  4. At 290,845 acres, the Desolation Canyon Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is the largest WSA managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in the contiguous 48 states. 
  5. At its deepest point, a relief of over 5,000 feet (1,500 m) exists from river level to the unseen rim of the Tavaputs Plateau. This display is a result of Nature’s handiwork over 40 million years. 
  6. The entire eastern side of the river and canyon (river left on descent) sits entirely on Ute Tribal Lands of the Unita-Ouray Reservation, the second largest Indian Reservation in the U.S. 
  7. There are around 75 discovered archaeological sites throughout the canyon. Fremont (people foraged and planted corn here from the 7th to the 13th centuries) and Ute pictographs and petroglyphs are abundant. 
  8. Fremont granaries, as well as several abandoned homesteaders’ ranches, testify to the agricultural potential of riparian alluvial fan landforms sited between steep slopes and valleys. The landforms are larger in Desolation Canyon than in any other canyon of the Colorado – Green River system. 
  9. Over 60 named class two and three rapids challenge boaters. The gradual increase in size and difficulty of rapids make it an ideal place for beginner to intermediate boaters to develop their skills. 
  10. Elk were transplanted into the area in 1988. Today, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep frequent the WSA. Other inhabitants are cougar, black bear, mule deer, endangered bald eagle, and peregrine falcon. 
  11. David McPherson started ranching with his family up Florence Creek in 1889. The McPherson homestead sat right along the path of the Outlaw Trail, used by the infamous robbers Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch. Cassidy, George “Flat-Nose” Curry, Ben Morrison and Josie Bassett all spent time in the canyon hiding from the law. 

A rafting adventure through Desolation Canyon is ideal for families with children as young as 5. There are weekly departures June through August, with availability on many 2023 dates. A 5-day/4-night adventure begins and ends in Moab, Utah, and includes a scenic flight that lands atop a dramatic desert plateau where the group begins a short descent on foot to the river put-in. The per person rate for adults (age 16 and up) is from $1,955 and for youth (age 5-15) from $1,255. For details see  https://www.westernriver.com/desolation-canyon
 
Guests may choose to paddle themselves in two-person, inflatable kayaks or to relax in a guide-powered oar boat. They enjoy deluxe camping on broad, sandy beaches along the river bank after savoring delicious meals prepared by trained guides. Whether on the river, enjoying a hike, or chatting by the campfire, the absence of digital access to the outside world mandates that attentions focus on what’s real and natural. It’s a time to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with what matters most.
 
For over 50 years Western River Expeditions has specialized as Nature’s handmaiden, providing the staff and environment and, yes, the rivers, where transformations occur. Again, this season, Western River Expeditions will host 5-day Rafting Trips through Desolation Canyon on Utah’s Green River that are proven antidotes to our too-often-virtual, over-digitalized world.
 
For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2023 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.
 
For more details on this trip see https://www.westernriver.com/desolation-canyon
 
Western River Expeditions is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).
 
Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the “Best of State” award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for the past nineteen consecutive years (2004-2022).

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family-friendly adventures, Holiday travel, international travel

New from Off the Map Travel: Meet Santa Claus in an Adventure-filled Winter Holiday in Finland

A new seven-day, six-night Ultimate Christmas Invitation itinerary transports visitors to the Arctic Circle to meet Santa Claus in his home, deep in the Lapland forest (Inari Wilderness Hotel)

(Rovaniemi, FINLAND)   A new seven-day, six-night Ultimate Christmas Invitation itinerary transports visitors to the Arctic Circle to meet Santa Claus in his home, deep in the Lapland forest. The Finland-based program includes dog-sledding, a visit to a reindeer farm, and snowmobiling. 

The festive journey starts in Helsinki before heading to Lapland with a personalized, handwritten letter and photobook from Santa Claus, highlighting all the ways guests have been “nice” this year and requesting the traveler’s presence at a one-on-one meeting at Santa’s home in Lapland.

Designed to enthrall all ages, the Ultimate Christmas Invitation from specialist travel company Off the Map Travel, creates a personalized experience for each member of the traveling party. Perfect for pre-Christmas shopping and celebrating throughout the festive season, the program is offered from November to January and begins with an overnight in Helsinki in the art deco boutique hotel Lilla Roberts where guests receive a “golden ticket” for the “Polar Express” overnight night train from Finland’s capital city to Rovaniemi, above the Arctic Circle.

“The itinerary builds suspense and anticipation up to the moment of meeting Santa in person. With no queues and a location in the most festive place on earth, the trip is a dream for those who love Christmas and Santa Claus,” noted Jonny Cooper, Arctic travel expert and founder of Off the Map Travel.

Guests can also stargaze and search for the Northern Lights through huge skylight windows in exclusive Aurora loft rooms at Rovaniemi’s contemporary Arctic Light Hotel. The magical city, just above the Arctic Circle is perfect for an immersion into Christmas and for numerous shopping opportunities.

To complete the experience, the tour continues to Inari, a center of winter activities, the birthplace of Finnish Sami, and the home of Santa. There, with winter clothing provided, guests can choose from outdoor programs including dogsledding, a reindeer farm meet-up and sleigh ride, and snowmobiling through the brilliant Lappish landscape.

In Inari, at Santa’s workshop, participants have a personal meeting with Kris Kringle himself with plenty of time to chat about Santa’s feelings about this year’s holiday, his elves and, of course, you.  Since no Christmas holiday is complete without a gift, visitors receive something very special before embarking on a sleigh ride to the Wilderness Hotel Inari, an unusual “round” log cabin resort with comfortable beds, a personal sauna in each cabin, and views over Lake Inari or River Nukkumajoki. In the evening, the cabin’s open fire invites you to cozy up and search for the Northern Lights in the clear skies.

The seven-day, six-night Ultimate Christmas Invitation itinerary is priced from $3806 per person (at the time of this writing) including all activities, transfers, one night’s accommodations in Helsinki , one night’s accommodations in Rovaniemi, three nights’ full board accommodation in Inari, and the overnight train to Rovaniemi from Helsinki. Flights are additional. As with any itinerary from Off the Map Travel, this program can be tailor-made to fit the wishes and requirements of the guest.

The team at Off the Map Travel works with experiences and destinations that allow people to explore hidden wonders of our planet. Specializing in Soft Adventure OTMT creates tailor-made holiday itineraries offering authentic experiences not offered by many larger travel companies.  For more information on Off the Map Travel itineraries visit www.offthemap.travel; call 1-646-701-0041, email [email protected].  

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, bike trips, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, cycling trips, Fall travel, family-friendly adventures, Hotels & Resorts, Outdoor travel experiences, Outdoors Travel, Uncategorized

8 Fall Vacations for Foliage, Fewer Crowds & Stunning Scenery

Ziplining at the Red Reflet Ranch, Ten Sleep, Wyoming, just one of the activities at the all-inclusive guest ranch (c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Cool weather, brightly colored foliage, and destinations largely free from crowds make fall the perfect time to travel. Here are eight vacation ideas for the months ahead, ranging from the mountains of Montana to the Natchez Trace and even the Galapagos Islands

1. Pacific Coast Cycling: The Pacific Coast Route is one of America’s premier cycling routes and autumn is an optimal time to avoid heavy tourist traffic. Pedal south through the lush forests of western Washington before following the Columbia River to the Oregon coast, then enter California and encounter massive redwoods coastal headlands and sandy beaches with bike paths. Ride the route on your own with maps from Adventure Cycling Association, or join other on a tour.
 
2. Fall Under the Big Sky: A visit to Big Sky, Montana, and stay at The Wilson Hotel offers the opportunity for fall adventures in Yellowstone country, as elk bugle and pockets of aspen trees turn golden against the backdrop of the green forest. Hike and mountain bike trails surrounding town, fish the famed Gallatin River or take one last tour of Yellowstone National Park’s natural wonders and wildlife before roads close for the season.
 
3. Traffic-Free Natchez Trace: The Natchez Trace is a historic travel corridor through Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi used by American Indians, settlers, soldiers and future presidents. And with no commercial traffic, the Natchez Trace Parkway is a cyclist’s dream come true. Join Cycle of Life Adventures for a fall tour to enjoy the changing colors of maple, hickory, oak and other hardwood trees, milder temperatures and overnight accommodations in small towns along the parkway.
 
4. National Parks RV Trip: National parks saw record crowds over the summer, but now that fall is here it’s a great time to visit for fewer crowds, less traffic and pleasant temperatures. Blacksford rents fully stocked Mercedes-Benz Sprinter overland adventure vehicles from Winnebago with an all-inclusive pricing model that includes unlimited miles, no generator fees, bedding, kitchen and bath supplies, free Wi-Fi, a free annual pass to the national parks and 24-hour roadside assistance.
 
5. Arizona + Black Canyon Mountain Biking: Explore all the Sonoran Desert has to offer with the Best of Phoenix and Black Canyon Trail Mountain Biking Tour from Escape Adventures. This trip is ideal for close groups of biking friends looking for a warm fall or winter excursion. Highlights include exploring the 21,099-acre McDowell Mountain regional park, riding conservancy lands and ripping more than 40-miles of fast and flowy singletrack.
 
6. Jackson Hole Glamping: Wyoming’s Fireside Resort offers 25 pint-sized, luxuriously outfitted tiny house rental units designed by Wheelhaus. The resort is located a short distance from Grand Teton National Park and the Jackson Hole ski slopes, making it the perfect place to post up for a fall getaway or winter ski trip.
 
7. Play Cowboy at a Dude Ranch: Red Reflet Ranch is a 28,000-acre luxury resort and working ranch on the west slope of the Bighorn Mountains, just three hours from Yellowstone National Park. Guests stay in private chalets and enjoy family-friendly activities like horseback riding, ATVing, ziplining, swimming, hiking, fishing, shooting and feasting on farm-to-table cuisine.
 
8. Autumn Galapagos Adventure: Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands, particularly when it comes to wildlife and weather. The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel has joined forces with Scalesia Galapagos Lodge to offer a new weeklong program that includes day trips aboard Yacht Sea Lion, glamping in luxury tents on Isabela Island and visits to remote and mysterious places that illustrate the incredible diversity of the archipelago.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, family-friendly adventures, rafting trips, Uncategorized

Western River Expeditions Offers Families Respite from Lockdown Whitewater Rafting in Utah’s Desolation Canyon

Western River Expeditions’ Desolation Canyon 5-Day rafting trip, ideal for families seeking respite from COVID lockdown, is offered June through August.

SALT LAKE CITY – For over 60 years, Western River Expeditions has specialized as Nature’s partner, offering guests the specialized expertise, matched with a pristine river environment to enable transformations in body and spirit that are so needed as families emerge from COVID isolation.

“Reservations are up 37 percent over the same period last year for our premier family rafting trip,” reports Brandon Lake, co-owner of Western River Expeditions. “Families are clamoring to reinvent themselves in one of the most remote (no roads, no towns and no cell service) destinations in the continental United States. They are counting on us to deliver their first great trip back after hibernation for so long.”
 
This is Utah’s Desolation Canyon, carved over millennia by the 730-mile Green River that is spawned by glacial melts on the Continental Divide in the wilds of northern Wyoming.
 
The company’s proven and lauded health protocols are in place for this trip that welcomes families with children ages five and up. Fully 100 percent of this vacation takes place outside together. Transportation to the put-in is by small plane on a 40-minute flight over the desert plateau from Moab, Utah. Passengers are appropriately distanced on the aircraft and are required to wear masks on the airplane and in shuttle vehicles.
 
“Being able to travel and vacation in confidence will also assist the healing process – especially for parents,” Lake said. He explained that the rafting journey through Desolation Canyon is much more than rafting. The environment offers large beaches, swimming holes, outlaw cabins to explore, Native American sites, wildlife, fishing and great hikes. “It’s absolutely one of the best family vacations in the world.”
 
The Green is less strident than the Grand Canyon’s rollicking Colorado River. Whitewater on the Green is playful, marked by over 60 warm-water Class I-III rapids, packed with more than enough splash to excite all ages.
 
Western River Expeditions’ Desolation Canyon 5-Day Trip is offered June through August. Rates are $1,845 for ages 16 and up and $1,145 for ages 5-15 including airport transfer and flight from Moab, Utah, to the river, cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs and water-resistant bags, all meals from between departure to return, guides, staff and equipment.
 
Highlights:

  • exploring 88 river miles
  • the option to paddle two-person inflatable kayaks or, relax in a guide-powered oar boat
  • witnessing 40 million years of geologic history
  • maneuvering 60+ fun-filled Class I-III rapids. One of the greatest features of this expedition is that the rapids are spread fairly evenly throughout the length of the trip so the action keeps it exciting all journey long.
  • visiting famous Wild West outlaw hideouts. Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch found that the rugged terrain here offered a perfect hideaway.
  • wondering about the past at now-derelict homesteads built of native materials
  • getting to know an ancient culture that both foraged and planted corn from the 7th to the 13th centuries, leaving behind Fremont Native American petroglyphs
  • hiking off-river with a seasoned guide well-versed in the region’s history and geology
  • deluxe camping on broad, sandy beaches along the river bank
  • enjoying host-prepared meals for both adults and children, with ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers
  • sunbathing on and off the water shaded by ancient cottonwoods
  • watching a Trip Jester entertain the children so parents have some down time 

For more details on this trip see https://www.westernriver.com/desolation-canyon
 
For a copy of Western River Expeditions’ 2021 catalog, questions, availability and reservations call toll-free: 866.904.1160 (Local: 801.942.6669) or visit the recently enhanced website at: http://www.westernriver.com/.
 
Western River Expeditions is an adventure travel company headquartered in Salt Lake City, with operations and offices in Moab, Utah and Fredonia, Arizona. Annually from March through October it escorts more people down rivers on professionally guided rafting trips in Utah, Idaho and Arizona than any other company. It is the largest licensed outfitter in the Grand Canyon and the largest single tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center (http://www.moabadventurecenter.com/).
 
Western River Expeditions, providing Grand Canyon rafting, Utah and Idaho rafting, and international multi-sport trips, was founded in 1961 by Colorado River rafting pioneer Jack Currey. It has been named one of the “Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth” by the editors of National Geographic Adventure magazine. The company is the proud recipient of the “Best of State” award through Utah’s Premier Recognition and Awards Program for the past sixteen consecutive years (2004-2019).

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, bike trips, camping trips, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, cycling trips, family-friendly adventures, hiking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Nature Travel, Outdoor travel experiences, Outdoors Travel, rafting trips, Uncategorized

REI Focuses on Domestic Outdoor Experiences With Aim to Help 3 Million Get Outdoors Annually; Discontinues International Adventure Trips

Camping in Letchworth State Park, New York. REI Co-op is revising plans for the future of its experiences business with a goal of getting 3 million people outdoors each year through its experiences programs, which will focus exclusively on U.S. domestic adventures. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

SEATTLE – REI Co-op is revising plans for the future of its experiences business with a goal of getting 3 million people outdoors each year through its experiences programs, which will focus exclusively on U.S. domestic adventures.

The co-op is investing in an expanded network of experiences close to iconic U.S. outdoor destinations, building on its expertise of small group active travel and local programming currently offered across the nation. REI expects to launch at least 12 new experience centers in the next two years where customers can tap into REI’s guided tours, gear rental and instruction. As part of the announcement, the co-op will discontinue its international adventure travel trips effective May 2021 in order to invest in its domestic travel growth strategy and expand offerings in hiking and camping, backpacking, cycling, women’s only, under-35, family and weekend adventures.

With more than 100 itineraries across the United States, REI adventure travel offers one of the broadest activity assortments of any U.S.-based tour operator. Sales of REI domestic adventure trips have gotten off to a fast start in 2021. As of March, domestic trips were up by 28 percent compared to 2019, making it one the strongest years in adventure travel sales.

“REI is a leader at getting people outside. We’re the only national organization with a wide range of experiences that provide life-changing outdoor moments, whatever someone’s skill level may be,” said Curtis Kopf, who was recently named REI’s chief experience officer. “The co-op’s bold investment in our U.S. experiences will help us welcome more people into the outdoors by making nature more accessible and attainable for everyone.”

A leader with REI since 2018, Kopf’s new role is an evolution of his previous oversight over REI’s experiences and digital divisions. As chief experience officer, he will oversee REI’s acceleration of efforts to design and build differentiated customer experiences that are interconnected across the company in physical locations, digital platforms and hosted experiences.

In recent years, REI annually has helped over 310,000 individuals across the country progress their outdoor interests and explore iconic outdoor destinations like national parks. Beyond multiday adventures, REI also offers fun and educational local experiences in major markets across the country through beginner-to advanced-level classes and guided day tours for hiking, cycling, paddling, climbing and more. REI is a top provider of how to ride a bike classes and wilderness training through its long partnership with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). The co-op also operates a destination adventure center based in Scottsdale, Arizona with gear rentals, day tours and education for residents and tourists visiting the region.

As REI focuses exclusively on U.S. domestic adventure travel and experiences, the co-op will provide full refunds to any guest who was booked on an international adventure. The co-op’s final international trip will depart in early May. All camping and hiking gear provided by REI to its international vendor network will remain in country for the continued use by individual operators.

REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. One of the nation’s largest consumer co-ops, REI is a growing community of more than 19 million members. REI has 168 locations in 39 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

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