NEW YORK –In celebration of International Women’s Day on
March 8, the United States Tour
Operators Association (USTOA) is
highlighting women-focused itineraries offered by its tour operator members.
Spanning the globe from Iceland to Ireland, Japan to Chile, each program offers
small group, immersive experiences that allow guests to pursue a passion or
check a box on their bucket list.
“USTOA tour operators
have a collection of itineraries created by women, for women, that are packed
with hands-on adventures and singular experiences. Each vacation provides much
more than a traditional getaway, with opportunities to explore a new
destination with like-minded travelers,” said Terry Dale, president and CEO of
USTOA.
The collection of small group, women-only trips in 2020 include:
Incredible Iceland with Northern Lights – smarTours’ seven-day,
women-only tour through Iceland takes travelers through Reykjavik and Vik, with
opportunities to see the Northern Lights, Seljalandsfoss & Skogafoss
Waterfalls, and more. Departure is available on October 29 starting at $2,399
per person.
Authentic Ladies Tee Time – Authentic Vacations offers a nine-day tour
of Ireland’s five-star golf courses, designed for a private group of women who
are interested in golfing the Emerald Isle’s lush landscape, experiencing fine
dining, and relaxing at spas. Private group tours are available starting at
$3,248 per person.
Japan Zen – The Art of Simple Living – Perillo’s Learning Journeys’
11-day women’s journey explores Japanese culture in Tokyo and Kyoto,
where guests will attend meditation sessions, stay in a traditional ryokan inn,
and participate in sake tastings and cooking classes.Departure is available on
May 31 starting at $5,475 per person.
Chile with Patagonia – SITA World Tours’ six-day,
women-only adventure through Chile and Patagonia takes guests to Chile’s wine
country in Casablanca and Curacavi and a day in Torres del Paine National
Park, with trip extensions available to Easter Island and Buenos Aires. Departure
is available on November 12 starting at 3,810 per person.
In addition to better access to attractions, activities and lodgings, a benefit of traveling with a well-established tour operator is the additional layer of safety and security and ability to respond to changing situations at the destination.
Representing nearly $19
billion in revenue, the member companies of U.S. Tour Operators Association
provide tours, packages and custom arrangements that allow 9.8 million
travelers annually unparalleled access, insider knowledge, peace-of-mind, value
and freedom to enjoy destinations and experiences across the entire globe. Each
member company has met the travel industry’s highest standards, including
participation in the USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Program, which protects
consumer payments up to $1 million if the company goes out of business.
As a voice for the tour operator industry for more than 40 years, USTOA also
provides education and assistance for consumers and travel agents.
LOS ANGELES, USA – Only a few spots remain for adventurous Indiana Jones-types and intrepid Nellie Bly hopefuls willing to compete in the Super Bowl of travel adventures that crowns The World’s Greatest Travelers and hands them a free trip around the world winner-take-all first place prize.
All you have to do is circle the globe and visit ten secret countries in the one-of-a-kind travel adventure while out-doing, out-thrilling and out-traveling a worthy collection of international travelers participating in the 2020 event.
Serious travelers are a competitive breed, from: “How many countries have you been to?” and “We’ve been there, did you do…?” to watching TV’s Amazing Race saying, “I could do that!” Well now they can with a trip, trophy and title on the line, not to mention a free trip around the world to defend their crowns in 2021.
The 16th edition of TheGlobal Scavenger Hunt travel adventure competition aims to return the romance of travel while testing the travel IQ of the most travel savvy of globetrotters. They will complete a series of highly participatory, authentic and challenging cultural site-doing scavenges in ten secret countries over a 23-day circumnavigation between April 17th and May 9th, 2020. Trusting strangers in strange lands is required!
Last call interested travelers need to apply online at GlobalScavengerHunt.com as the deadline nears.
“The Global Scavenger Hunt covers a lot of extraordinary travel bases,” says author and Event Director William Chalmers, “Taking our blind date with the world is a 21st century version of spinning a globe and throwing out your finger. Maybe that’s why we’ve been called the ‘Super Bowl of Travel,’ the ‘Olympics of Travel’, and one writer even called our annual travel adventure the ‘Magical Mystery Tour’. I liked that one!”
The reviews for the annual world travel championship are in too: Conde Nast Traveler calls The Global Scavenger Hunt, “the best trip to take…”; Frommer’s lists it as one of “best adrenaline adventures…” in the world; Outside magazine bills it as, “One of the most amazing trips in the world…”; and National Geographic says that the event is, “…like Survivor, The Amazing Race and the Eco-Challenge all rolled into one except with much more cultural interaction.”
The 23-day around the world event is limited to 15 teams of two with the $25,000 per team entry fee including: all international airfare, first class hotels, 40% of meals and special event-sponsored travel gear. Single travelers are welcome to apply; and all travelers will be interviewed for suitability. Contact GreatEscape Adventures at +1.310.281.7809 or apply online at GlobalScavengerHunt.com.
Williston, VT –By 2030, 1.8 billion people – about 20 percent of the global population – are predicted to be tourists traveling the world. As the demand for global travel increases, consumers are faced with numerous decisions on how to make their trips more sustainable, including where to go, what to pack and how to get there. Country Walkers, a leading provider of walking adventures and a leader in responsible tourism for decades, offers travelers the opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable world through preserving indigenous cultures, supporting local economies, conserving wildlife and protecting the environment.
“At Country Walkers, we are committed to a healthier planet
and to giving back to the destinations we explore,” said Timo Shaw, President of Country Walkers. “Sustainability is one of our core values, from staying in locally
owned and operated hotels whenever possible and seeking out environmentally and
socially responsible accommodations, to our ardent support of the Slow Food
movement in order to preserve culinary traditions and support biodiversity. As
a result, those who travel with us contribute to a more sustainable world as
well.”
To further support special conservation and charitable
projects in communities and habitats worldwide, Country Walkers created The
Travelers Fund, which makes a donation on behalf of every traveler who
books a specific tour. More than half of Country Walkers’ tours are associated
with an initiative, including:
Mountain Rescue at Club Alpino Italiano (Country Walkers tour: Italy: The Amalfi Coast & Capri). Safety comes first
on the Amalfi Coast with a donation to the local mountain rescue team, which
primarily relies on volunteers and donations to obtain and maintain equipment
for rapid emergency response for visitors and locals.
Wildlife Conservation in the Rocky
Mountains (Country Walkers tours: Montana: Glacier National Park and Wyoming: Grand Teton & Yellowstone[KG1] ). The Yellowstone to Yukon
Conservation Initiative seeks to re-connect segments of land that have been
separated by development, allowing animals to safely move from region to region
on wildlife-friendly highway overpasses. Contributions are used towards
constructing one of these wildlife structures.
Therapeutic Travel for Cancer Survivors
in Quebec (Country Walkers tour: Quebec: Quebec City & the Saguenay Fjord). Country Walkers supports the Fondation Sur La Pointe des Pieds
(“On the Tip of the Toes”), which provides young people ages 14 to 29 living
with cancer with an opportunity to regain their sense of well-being through
therapeutic adventure expeditions.
Assisting Pilgrims on Camino de
Santiago (Country Walkers tour: Spain: Classic Camino de Santiago). The
Federación Española de Asociaciones de Amigos del Camino de Santiago
coordinates a vast national network of hostels, volunteers, parishes, churches
and shelters in an effort to keep more than 200,000 pilgrims safe, healthy and
informed as they walk the Camino de Santiago.
Clean Water in Zambia (Country Walkers tour: Zambia Safari: Exclusive Camps & Bush Walks). In Africa, currently 345 million people live without access to
clean drinking water. Together with local partners in Zambia at Charity Begins
Home, Country Walkers supports the “Commit to Clean Water” Fund, an initiative
that seeks to transform rural communities by drilling wells into deep aquifers
and pumping potable water to the surface.
Maintaining the Long Trail in
Vermont (Country Walkers tour: Vermont: Fall Foliage). A highlight of the tour is walking
along one of the most spectacular portions of the legendary 270-mile Long
Trail, the nation’s first long-distance hiking trail. Country Walkers supports
the Green Mountain Club, the stewards of this “footpath through the
wilderness,” who also promote conservation of and education about Vermont’s
mountains and rural land.
Advocacy for Small Businesses in
Palermo (Country Walkers tour: Italy: Sicily). Country Walkers supports the nonprofit
Addiopizzo movement, a grassroots coalition of over 850 shopkeepers aimed at
squashing corruption in Sicily and educating locals about ethical business
practices.
Conserving a Historic Chapel in
Monterosso (Country Walkers tour: Italy: Portofino & Cinque Terre[KG2] ). In 2013, severe landslides destroyed the grounds of the
historic Convento dei Cappuccini chapel and monastery. “Let’s Rebuild
Monterosso’s Paradise” raises funds for the restoration, a cost far beyond the
modest means of the town or diocese.
Cornwall Coastal Preservation (Country Walkers tour: England: The Cornwall Coast). The South West
Coast Path Association advocates for improvements to more than 630 miles of
this historic coastal trail system. As maintenance is costly, donations from
Country Walkers on behalf of guests help maintain these paths that are
heavily utilized on the tour.
Farming for the Future (Country Walkers tours: Portugal: Sintra, Óbidos & the Coast and Portugal: Porto to Lisbon). The Herdade do
Freio do Meio farm applies principles of sustainability within the context
of the Portuguese montado, a traditional pastoral agricultural system in which
reducing reliance on fossil fuels and marketing regionally to provide fresh
foods and minimize transport costs are key policies. The farm processes and
sells many products on site, providing training and employment for locals.
Campobello Whale Rescue Team (Country Walkers tour: New Brunswick: Bay of Fundy & Campobello Island). Created by Mackie Green, the same captain who offers a whale
watching excursion and boat transfers on the Country Walkers tour, the team is
trained to dive and rescue whales trapped in fish netting. Donations support
equipment and training.
Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty (Country Walkers tour: England: The Cotswolds). Stretching over
790 square miles, the Cotswolds is the largest recognized Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty in England due to its breathtaking scenery and rolling hills.
Country Walkers supports efforts to keep the area well-preserved on behalf of
every Cotswolds guest.
For more than 40 years, Country Walkers has provided active, experiential, and stunning travel experiences on five continents. Based in Williston, Vt., the company’s specialized adventures and insider access bring the beating heart of a destination to life with well-crafted itineraries for Guided Walking and Self-Guided Walking. All walking trips highlight local cuisine, authentic accommodations, and immersive cultural experiences. Country Walkers is recognized as one of the leading providers of Walking Adventures worldwide, having garnered countless awards including National Geographic Traveler’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime” and Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards.
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 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.
Venice is one of the world’s cherished places being loved to death by tourists. Rather than being part of the problem of overcrowding in Venice, Wildland Adventures recommends, take the ferry to the small fishing town of Rovinj, where you are welcomed by locals who take you around in a traditional Batana fishing boat. (c) Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
SEATTLE, WA – Certain places on our planet are getting loved to death. Why and what should responsible travelers do about it?
Not long ago, international travel was the purview of the rich and worldly. Today, however, the middle class enthusiastically travels the globe with bucket lists that concentrate attention on the most popular places in the world (and rightly so). Unfortunately, the byproduct of this increase in travel means that If the original character of these places is not in jeopardy now, it soon will be.
Kurt Kutay is founder and president of Wildland Adventures, a travel company that for over 30 years has created opportunities for guests to experience destinations from the inside out. Utilizing the Wild Style of travel, Wildland trips build lasting intercultural, interpersonal and environmental bonds. By impressing sincerity, compassion and understanding at each step of the journey, the aim is to enhance rather than exploit the place and people we’ve come to visit. To this end, Kurt offers 6 Ways to Travel Responsibly in an Age of Over-Tourism.
1. Manage Your Expectations and Emotions As with much of life, aligning expectations with reality is half of the road to happiness. Planning travel is no different in this regard, as you anticipate what you will experience. If we allow preconceived notions of the Taj Mahal or Machu Picchu – without crowds — drive our desire to travel halfway around the world to experience these iconic destinations first hand, we may indeed leave disappointed.
The proper research will help you to align expectations with reality. Ask many questions, but ask the right questions and don’t be afraid of the answers. Most importantly, stay open to the experience before you. It is unknown what lies ahead and that is the magic of travel. Be diligent in letting go of preconceived expectations, they are persistent. Refuse to let them as well as annoyances like crowds distract you from what drew you there in the first place. That’s when the true joy of discovery flows — no matter what it looks like.
2. Find a Local Connection Hire a passionate, local guide help to deepen the travel experience while avoiding the ‘group think’ impact of large tour groups. A good local guide can help skirt the crowds at popular sites and even introduce less-known sites for a unique perspective.
For example, a good guide will take you to the Taj Mahal twice, once to get in line before it opens and later in the afternoon before it closes to experience variable lighting. Kutay remembers his last visit, “Instead of passing through the main gates twice, our local guide took us to the Mehatab Bagh (Moonlight Garden) across the Yamuna River, far from the tourist hordes, where we stood arm-in-arm, standing alone and moved to tears by the beautiful silhouette.”
3. Rethink Your Bucket List Discover wonders of the world beyond UNESCO’s at-risk sites or the favorite ports of call of the cruise industry. Instead of the crowded hilltop towns of Tuscany, try the hills of the Istrian peninsula of Slovenia and Croatia. Rather than being part of the problem of overcrowding in Venice, take the ferry to the small fishing town of Rovinj, where you are welcomed by locals who take you around in a traditional Batana fishing boat.
4. Timing Is Everything — Spend Time at the Right Place Plan your day at famous sites carefully and be sure to get the latest information as local conditions and regulations change constantly. The best plan is familiar the world over. In Croatia, plan to tour Dubrovnik before cruise ship passengers disembark, in Cambodia visit Siem Reap before tour buses disgorge, and in Peru arrive at Machu Picchu before the daily trains do. When you finally are where you’ve dreamt of being, follow slow travel principles and linger longer, but in fewer places.
5. Pay to Play A great many worthwhile experiences cost more. Whether a part of a private and exclusive event or of a carefully managed ecotour that limits the number of visitors, the extra dollars spent help to protect fragile habitats and visitor experiences.
In Africa, this may look like tracking mountain gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda for which there are limited permits. To protect the experience in some locales for years to come, some safaris are very exclusive and conducted in a private nature reserve like Timbavati in Greater Kruger N.P. In Tanzania, the remote camps of Katavi and Mahale require bush flights to access some of the wildest places on the planet.
In South America, the fragile cultural patrimony of the Inca Trail in Peru and delicate balance of nature in the Galapagos Islands are carefully managed by limited permits and fees that control access and provide a source of revenue for critical conservation programs. Advance planning is required to enjoy the privilege of being among the few where limited numbers of permits are allotted.
6. Consider Where You Stay Your choice of accommodations is one of the most important considerations in minimizing impact on the local environs while maximizing the benefits you bring to the local community. Many hotels, camps, ecolodges, yachts and expedition ships are rated for their level of sustainability. They are rated on energy sources, recycling, waste management, water conservation, food sourcing, and other sustainability-focused initiatives. In addition, many are actively involved in nature and wildlife conservation and in educating guests about ecosystems and biodiversity. These accommodations are deeply connected and committed to indigenous culture and the well-being of local communities. The highest rated ecolodges and camps are safeguarding the world’s cultural and natural heritage while delivering the most meaningful guest experiences.
Traveling Responsibly Isn’t About Staying Home
The Center for
Responsible Tourism asserts that traveling responsibly “…is about managing
travel and destinations in an environmentally and culturally responsible way
and designing tourism programs and individual trips carefully to provide
travelers with the experience they seek, while leaving a positive footprint on
their destination.” Destinations are always changing and we have many
choices to make when we travel, “but the important thing is to be mindful of
our impact on the people and places that give us so much and help others to do
the same…and to keep traveling,” says Kutay.
For more information on Wildland Adventures’ worldwide offerings, availability
and reservations, call 1-800-345-4453 or email [email protected]. Visit http://www.wildland.com/.
SANTA ROSA, USA –The 16th annual edition of The Global Scavenger Hunt, known among travel cognoscenti as the world travel championship, is set to take place over 23-days between April 17 and May 9, 2020, is now accepting applications for entry. Eager Indiana Jones-types of adventurers and curious travelers wanting to test their travel IQ against other travelers in an extraordinary around-the-world travel adventure competition that crowns The World’s Greatest Travelers, can apply at GlobalScavengerHunt.com.
“Competitions, trophies and titles provide inspiration,” says Event Director William Chalmers, “We want the best international travelers to participate. The 2020 event will find out if travel writers and bloggers know the world as well as they claim to; whether social media influencers and travel agents can go beyond their staged selfies and glossy brochures; and whether some of the world’s ‘most traveled people’ and Amazing Race wannabe’s actually have any real-world travel skills. Winning our event is the ultimate test and proof.”
The 2020 event will pit savvy international travelers against each other by taking them on A Blind Date with the World, visiting ten secret destinations without any prior preparation, and then have them unravel a constant blitz of highly authentic, participatory and challenging culturally-oriented scavenges along the way, like: meditating with monks, training elephants, taking flamenco lessons, cooking local dishes with local chefs, searching out Lost Cities, cracking sacred temple mysteries, joining in local celebrations, and learning local languages enough to decipher their scavenger hunt clues. Trusting strangers in strange lands will be their focus as they circle the globe for three weeks. The event has touched foot in 85 countries to date.
The title of The World’s Greatest Travelers and free trip around the world to defend their titles in the 2021 event await the travelers worthy enough to win the 16th edition of the world travel championship.
Event participation is open but limited; the $25,000 per team entry fee includes all international airfare, First Class hotels, 40% of meals, and special event travel gear. All travelers are interviewed for suitability and single travelers are welcome to apply. For additional information please visit GlobalScavengerHunt.com, or contact GreatEscape Adventures Inc., at +1.310.281.7809. (CST#2071053-40)
On Evan Evans’ Royal Windsor Steam Express with Castle Tour, travel from Waterloo to Windsor in style onboard the Mayflower, a beautifully restored traditional British steam train from the golden age of rail travel.
LONDON –Evan Evans, one of London’s oldest and largest tour operators, takes the pressure out of where to go and what to do when vacationing with family in London with such magical offerings as a walking tour of Harry Potter film locations, and a trip on the Royal Windsor Steam Express with Castle Tour, traveling from Waterloo to Windsor in style onboard the Mayflower, a beautifully restored traditional British steam train from the golden age of rail travel.
A bit of magical realism can be fun for the whole family when you follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous wizard on the enchanting 3-hour Harry Potter Film Locations Walking Tour of London. The magic starts at Westminster tube station and then it’s on to the real-life locations that provided the inspiration for some of the most iconic locations in the wizarding world of the Harry Potter film series. Visit exciting locations from the film series, including Diagon Alley, Platform 9 3/4s, and discover the inspiration behind the sites, as our expert guide brings the magic to life. The tour includes Evans Evans’ personal headsets which guarantee a more immersive and intimate experience. Tours start at $25 for children/seniors and $33.75 for adults.
The Royal Windsor Steam Express with
Castle Tour rolls out the red carpet to
royalty. Travel from Waterloo to Windsor in style onboard the Mayflower,
a beautifully restored traditional British steam train from the golden age of
rail travel. Relax on this fantastic steam train to Windsor and let the
romance of steam travel whisk you away to a town steeped in royal heritage.
Windsor Castle is set within 13 acres and boasts more than 1,000 impressive
rooms. Founded in the 11th Century by William the Conqueror, you’ll learn
about how Windsor Castle has withstood siege, been used for official
entertaining as a royal court by King Henry VIII and Elizabeth I, and as a home
to 39 monarchs, including the UK’s reigning Queen Elizabeth II who
enjoys many of her private weekends at the Castle. Unravel the spectacular
history of Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world. Enjoy
visits to the magnificent State Apartments, Semi-State Rooms, Grand Reception
Room, Queen Mary’s Doll House, and beautiful St George’s Chapel, where Prince
Harry and Meghan Markle were married in May 2018. Depending on the day and time
of your visit, you might be lucky to witness the Changing of the Guard
at Windsor Castle. The ceremony sees the guards marching through Windsor
town and into the castle for the guard change. Tours start at $80
for children and $92.50 for adults. In April 2020, families can take
the steam train to Windsor and visit the famous LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort on
the new ‘Royal Windsor Steam Express
with LEGOLAND’ tour. With over 55 rides, live shows and attractions set
over 150 acres of parkland plus a fully LEGO themed hotel on site, the
LEGOLAND Windsor Resort is a family destination that is not to be missed!
You can discover over
a thousand years of history at England’s most beautiful
medieval castles and also visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare and the
historic city of Oxford on ourWarwick Castle, Shakespeare’s England, Oxford & The
Cotswolds tour. Set
against the River Avon within 64 acres of landscaped parkland, Warwick Castle
once belonged to the most powerful man in England, The Earl of Warwick. This
action-packed family attraction has a full program of entertainment throughout
the year, such as meeting with figures of Warwick’s historic
inhabitants inside the state rooms, including Countess Daisy, young Winston
Churchill and many more. Go for a walk on the ramparts and up to the top of the
mound where you’ll get a breath-taking view of the castle and grounds. You can
also relax in the peacock garden by the Conservatory with the gentle
sound of a water fountain and live peacocks walking around you. For a
unique history lesson, you can view a trebuchet (a medieval catapult) that
fires a rock across the grounds of the Castle. In Stratford-upon-Avon,
you’ll visit the 16th-century half-timbered house where Shakespeare was
born in 1564 and grew up. Families will enjoy a fascinating insight into
tales of his family life and admire rare artefacts on displays from the
Shakespeare Trust’s world-class collections. On the tour’s final stop, explore
‘The City of Dreaming Spires,’ and the oldest university in the
English-speaking world, the University of Oxford. You’ll enjoy a walking tour
with our expert guide, and maybe spot filming locations shot for
countless movies and TV series over the years, including the Harry Potter film
series. Tour options start at $77.50 per person.
Evan Evans is one of the longest-established and largest sightseeing companies in London, operating since 1933. The company offers a range of tours of Britain, from majestic palaces and castles and quaint country villages to the historic cities of Bath, Oxford and Canterbury.
For
more information and reservations, visit www.evanevanstours.com or
call Evan Evans at (0)20-795-0177.
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.
