Category Archives: Uncategorized

Active Travel, Adventure Travel, bike trips, camping trips, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, National Parks, Uncategorized

Escape Adventures Partners with Blacksford to Offer Guided RV Cycling Tours in National Parks

Escape Adventures and Blacksford Luxury RV Rentals have formed a new partnership to offer multi-day guided cycling tours via luxury RV in national parks.

(Las Vegas, NV) — Escape Adventures and Blacksford Luxury RV Rentals have formed a new partnership to offer multi-day guided cycling tours via luxury RV. By utilizing Blacksford RVs on a new selection of road and mountain biking tours, Escape Adventures will be the only travel operator to offer this elevated experience that blends the comforts of home with the thrills of active travel. Blacksford’s service includes airport transfers, vehicle orientation, 24/7 roadside support, and even a complimentary National Parks pass.

The first itineraries being offered are six-day multi-sport trips in Canyonlands, Arches, and Moab via road bike or mountain bike. The tours start at $4,274 per person (including RV rental) and can be adapted to accommodate group-size or varied skill levels. Thrill seekers lacking outdoor experience or family groups will find this tour a perfect match of adventure and tempo. For more information, visit https://escapeadventures.com/lodging_type/luxury-rv/

“We’ve always considered ourselves pioneers of the adventure travel industry,” said Escape Adventures Founder, Jared Fisher. “We’ve done a lot of innovative things over the past 30 years, like spearheading the Aquarius Trail System and being the first mountain bike outfitter to offer tours on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. These luxury RV multi-sport tours are yet another example. This is a perfect way for our clients who love camping tours to kick it up a notch.” 
 
Blacksford offers a variety of luxury RV rentals with the amenities and space to serve unique needs. Clean, reliable, and road trip-ready, these vehicles allow guests to take the comforts of home to America’s most beautiful outdoor destinations. Each RV rental is packed with fresh linens, cozy blankets, and quality cookware. Guests will love the like-new amenities, pristine interiors, plus a few added perks, all at no extra fee. Lear more about what’s included. 
 
Moab’s backcountry provides the perfect setting for a multi-sport RV adventure. At Arches, guests will hike through a geological wonderland, where natural exhibits of pinnacles, arches, pedestals, and balancing rocks seem to defy the laws of physics. Contrasting colors, textures, and landforms distinguish the many vegetation zones of this canyon country, each offering its own kind of adventure. At Dead Horse Point and Island in the Sky, expansive views of maze-like chasms typify the biking experience along the acclaimed mesa and singletrack. Moab’s vertical landscape offers guests a fantastic introduction to canyoneering, and while the Colorado River’s power is present everywhere throughout this adventure, nowhere is it better realized than on an exciting day of river rafting.
 
“We’ve transformed the RV rental business with our blend of affordable luxury, comfortable amenities, and attentive customer service,”‘ said Blacksford CEO Becky Goodell. “This partnership with Escape Adventures feels like a perfect match. We’ll share insider travel tips, answer any questions, and ensure guests are road-ready with a comprehensive vehicle orientation. We’re here to make the experience smooth and worry-free.”

Since 1992, Escape Adventures has been blessed to shape and lead adventure travel vacations through some of the most awe-inspiring natural destinations in the world. Building on over one hundred destinations, Escape Adventures caters to the full spectrum of active travelers, respective to fitness level and activity type. From road cyclist to mountain biker to electric biker, hiker, and multi-sport enthusiast, and from first timer to friends and family groups of all ability levels, Escape Adventures looks forward to many new and exciting adventures with you. https://escapeadventures.com/
 
Blacksford RV Rentals offers brand new, premium RV and camper van rentals in Las Vegas and Yellowstone/Bozeman, Montana. Its Phoenix location will open October 1, 2024. Each rental is fully equipped and designed to cater to your every need, providing a hassle-free, comfortable, and reliable road trip experience. The rental service includes unlimited mileage, all-inclusive pricing, flexible pick-up and drop-off times, all the amenities you will need for your vacation, and 24/7 support to ensure a seamless rental experience. https://www.blacksford.com
 
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health and wellness travel, Hotels & Resorts, Uncategorized

6 Epic Experiences at Wellness Resorts

August is National Wellness Month and it’s an ideal time to plan a self-care getaway. Wellness seekers are constantly looking for the newest and most exclusive experiences, and these resorts, events, and packages are providing just that in some of the most beautiful, relaxing destinations in the world.

Ananda in the Himalayas goes global to the Maldives, Switzerland and Wales

World-renowned global wellness retreat, Ananda in the Himalayas takes its traditional wisdom and expertise around the world to these three destinations. From August 17-25, 2024, Ananda Wellness Residency at The Nautilus in the Maldives offers a transformative wellness experience that combines Ananda’s expertise in Ayurvedic therapies, Yogic energy work, and healthy gourmet cuisine with The Nautilus’s timeless hospitality offering. The Nautilus Maldives in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, provides an idyllic setting in the Indian Ocean.

From August 28-September 1, 2024, at the Nira Alpina in St. Moritz, Switzerland, Ananda in the Himalayas offers Ananda in the Alps, a unique Hatha Yoga, meditation and Ayurvedic culinary workshop in the Swiss Alps led by Ananda’s Yoga expert and therapist, Reema Saikia and Executive Chef and Ayurvedic cuisine expert Diwaker Balodi. One of the most unique hotels in the Swiss Alps, Nira Alpina is located amidst the beautiful snow-capped mountains and glassy pure lakes.

From September 30-October 4, 2024, Dreams of Ananda combines the ancient Indian sciences of Ayurveda, Yoga, and Meditation from the foothills of the Himalayas to the enchanting Celtic lands of Mid Wales. Personalized wellbeing and facilitators at The Dreaming, a wellness retreat in Wales, work to bring harmony back to attendees as they practice yoga, meditation, and more.

Hotel Belmar offers new wellness experiences in Costa Rica

Carbon neutral Hotel Belmar, a family-owned luxury eco-lodge situated in Costa Rica’s renowned Monteverde cloud forest highlands, adds to its wellness offerings with new yoga programs and more. Arantza joined in April as a certified yoga teacher, breathwork and lightwork facilitator, gene keys student, and dedicated guide. With over five years of experience, she curates mindful experiences, blending traditional yogic practices, tantra, pranayama, and more. Arantza’s sessions, grounded in self-empowerment and love, invite guests to discover their dharma, embrace transformation, and connect with the elements.

The hotel now offers a new Wellness Enhancement add-on package to elevate any stays into a thematic self-retreat. This add-on package includes daily farm-to-table breakfast, daily yoga sessions, healthy juice smoothies, a relaxing massage, a private breathwork session, and immersive nature experiences—all for $220 USD. For corporate or group travelers, Hotel Belmar also has new wellness packages available for groups of 8 – 20 people.

Scenset invites travelers on an Indonesian island getaway

An exclusive itinerary prepared by Carl Junior, Senior Travel Curator for luxury travel-tech company Scenset, promises wellness, adventure, and luxury in the captivating Indonesian islands. Discover the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury on this exclusive journey to dream destinations including Bali. Indonesia invites travelers to rejuvenate mind, body, and spirit in a culturally rich environment that promotes relaxation, rejuvenation, and holistic well-being.

Whether it’s yoga in Ubud’s lush rainforests, exclusive spa retreats in Uluwatu’s cliffside havens, or Sumba’s pristine beaches, Indonesia provides a perfect backdrop for immersive wellness experiences. Top-tier resorts, beach yoga, wellness consultations, sunset horseback rides, and gourmet dining are all part of the itinerary — available here.

Las Catalinas welcomes XTERRA Costa Rica event

From August 23-25, 2024, the town of Las Catalinas will host its first ever XTERRA Costa Rica. The event is an off-road multisport endurance competition featuring a full distance triathlon (individual and relay) with a 1600 meter open-water swim, 28-kilometer mountain bike and 9-kilometer trail run. The sprint triathlon includes an 800-meter open-water swim, a 20-kilometer mountain bike and a 5-kilometer trail run and covers over 42 kilometers of trails, beaches, and waterfront. Las Catalinas has also been the home to the Tri Las Catalinas, one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated triathlons since 2013.

The town has become an ideal destination for training, wellness, healing and recovery. With trails, biking, and water sports all nearby, it’s the ideal destination to reconnect with nature and seek some rejuvenation. Find out more about the triathlon here.

Naya Traveler takes wellness seekers to Argentina’s Patagonia

Offering tailor-made experiential journeys to a curated selection of destinations, Naya Traveler invites travelers to the heart of a 50,000-acre working cattle ranch in Argentina’s Patagonia region where Tipiliuke Lodge puts wellness at the forefront, welcoming guests to indulge in a variety of relaxing experiences. Naya Traveler works with local hosts and expert guides to design a personalized wellness journey from the very start. Amenities like a nutritionist, wood-fired sauna, hot tub with stunning vistas, and yoga studio with views of natural beauty are all part of the package, helping guests reconnect with nature and themselves.

Personal treatments from masseuses, yoga instructors, physiotherapists, and osteopaths from the nearby town of San Martin de los Andes complete the wellness offer. End each rejuvenating day under a canopy of stars, savoring renowned Argentinian Malbecs around a fire. Learn more about Naya Traveler’s wellness journeys.

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa provides top-notch rejuvenation in Saint Lucia

Known for its commitment to sustainability and eco-minded practices, Calabash Cove Resort and Spa is one of the most popular all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotels in Saint Lucia. Its 26 villas feature old Caribbean charm coupled with luxurious and modern resort amenities. The resort’s Ti Spa offers a wide range of treatments that combine European technique with St. Lucia’s storied tradition of using plant and food-based curatives. Treatments are designed to cleanse the body with locally produced coffee or papaya scrubs. The signature Spa Sampler features holistic treatments like hot stone massage, aromatherapy, and counter stretching among other techniques. Guests can also enjoy the resort’s diverse vegan and vegetarian menu. The resort is one of the only properties in Saint Lucia to offer a vegan menu.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, ecotourism, expeditionary cruises, Expeditionary Travel, Uncategorized

Discover the Remote Wonders of East Greenland with Secret Atlas

Secret Atlas has launched a new Expedition Micro Cruise to explore Greenland.

Did you know Greenland is the largest island on the planet but only has a population of 56,000 inhabitants, making it one of the most sparsely populated places on Earth? The lucky few who visit Greenland rarely make it to Scoresby Sund due to only being accessible from August – to October, but  Secret Atlas has launched a new Expedition Micro Cruise to allow small, intimate groups to explore the stunning fjord system, towering icebergs, elusive wildlife and the remote community of Ittoqqortoormiit.

With only 12 guests onboard, Secret Atlas promises an intimate experience with crowd-free expeditions and flexible itineraries led by world-class expedition leaders. This ensures the best chance of seeing muskox, glaciers, and the Northern Lights, which appear from September.

Setting sail onboard the MV Vikingfjord, the Expedition Micro Cruise spends eight days exploring the stunning landscapes of Scoresby Sund including as much time as possible spent off the ship on daily Zodiac cruises and onshore hikes.

Guests are in for a treat at the end of the expedition, sailing up the longest fjord on the planet and past the impressive ice giants of Scoresby Sund before visiting the small and remote community of Ittoqqortoormiit. Made up of only 400 Greenlandic people, Ittoqqortoormiit is one of the most isolated settlements in Greenland and a unique opportunity to learn about Inuit traditions.

East Greenland Explorer Fly & Cruise with Secret Atlas

The 10-Day East Greenland Explorer Fly & Cruise with Secret Atlas takes place from August – October and costs from $10,620 (€9,900) per person.Price includes bespoke meet and greet, welcome dinner with Secret Atlas team and eight days cruising onboard the MV Vikingfjord. The price excludes a mandatory exclusive charter flight from Keflavik Airport (KEF) to Constable Point in Scoresbysund (CNP) and overnight accommodation at the Aurora Hotel on arrival and departure, which costs an additional $2,680 (€2,500) per person. To book, visit https://www.secretatlas.com/tour/east-greenland-cruise/

Secret Atlas Co-Founder and enthusiast explorer Michele D’Agostino said, “When I first entered Scoresby Sund Fjord in July 2018, I immediately understood what a fascinating and unique part of the planet it was. We decided to launch the East Greenland micro cruise to allow a small group of guests the opportunity to experience this remote part of the world authentically and privately, but with minimal impact to the community, wildlife and environment.”

Secret Atlas is a boutique travel company launched in 2019 and run by Explorers for Explorers, on a mission to rekindle the long-gone spirit of exploration. These Expedition Micro Cruises take the smallest group sizes in the Arctic (only 12 guests) and Antarctic (only 48 guests). They are low-impact and sustainable and offer guests an authentic, unrivaled experience free from the crowds of larger vessels.

Discover more about Secret Atlas at www.secretatlas.com.  

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Exhibits, Historic Places, Museums & Exhibits, New York City travel, Uncategorized

See the Declaration of Dependence on Display at New-York Historical Society July 2-7

For the first time in more than 20 years, the New-York Historical Society displays the “Declaration of Dependence,” a petition signed in 1776 by New Yorkers loyal to the British crown. The petition will be on view for a limited time, alongside a rare original printing of the Declaration of Independence, also from New-York Historical’s collection.

In an installation entitled Our History of Discord, together these documents reveal the contentious history behind our nation’s founding.

Also, on the Fourth of July, kids under 17 can visit the Museum for free and meet historical interpreters recreating life in New York City in 1776.

“Division in our political views is not a recent phenomenon, and as our nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026 fast approaches, it’s helpful to examine the great divisions we have overcome,” said Louise Mirrer, president and CEO, New-York Historical. “These rare documents on view—offering viewpoints of those loyal to the King and those eager to be rid of him—can help us better understand the role everyday Americans play in the struggle for democracy, including those who have been excluded from it.”

Our History of Discord

Limited Time Only! July 2 – 7, 2024

Just in time for the Fourth of July, get a fascinating look at two essential documents that demonstrate just how tumultuous the birth of the United States really was: a rare New York printing of the Declaration of Independence and a one-of-a-kind “declaration of dependence,” a petition from hundreds of Loyalist New Yorkers pledging their allegiance “to our Sovereign, against the strong tide of oppression and tyranny” at the end of November 1776.

The documents are displayed alongside the Johannes Adam Simon Oertel painting that depicts the night a statue of King George III at Bowling Green was pulled down by a rowdy crowd of revolutionaries on July 9, 1776, after the Declaration of Independence was first read aloud to the troops. Also on view: a surviving piece of that very statue, which has been in the New-York Historical collection since the late 1800s. Curated by Nina Nazionale, director of library curatorial affairs and research at the Patricia D. Klingenstein Library

Independence Day Celebration

Thursday, July 4, 11 am – 5 pm | Free with Museum admission; free admission for ages 17 and younger

Celebrate Independence Day at New-York Historical with humble street food and posh ice cream flavors that would have been familiar to New Yorkers of 1776! Meet historical interpreters to learn the fascinating stories of vendors who sold their wares in the streets and chef Hercules Posey, an enslaved cook of George Washington who self-emancipated in 1796. After sampling foods of the Revolutionary Era, make family memories together with games, crafts, a dress-up photo booth, and more.

New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West (77th Street), New York, NY 10024, 212-873-3400, nyhistory.org.

Adventure Travel, Eco-friendly resorts and hotels, ecotourism, Nature & Wildlife, Nature Travel, Uncategorized

New Darwin Galapagos + Amazon + Yacht Adventure

An adventurous 11-day journey combines two of Ecuador’s most iconic and wildlife-rich regions, the incredible Galapagos Islands and Amazon Rainforest. Guests will explore Isabela and Santa Cruz islands and take a yacht to other nearby islands. Starting in the highlands of Isabela, guests will explore some of the island’s most fascinating areas, including the Charles Darwin Research Station © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

(Quito, Ecuador) — This adventurous 11-day journey combines two of Ecuador’s most iconic and wildlife-rich regions, the incredible Galapagos Islands and Amazon Rainforest. Guests will explore Isabela and Santa Cruz islands and take a yacht to other nearby islands. Scalesia Galapagos Lodge and Finch Bay Hotel will provide a comfortable base for this guided Galapagos Islands tour. Starting in the highlands of Isabela, guests will explore some of the island’s most fascinating areas, including the Giant Tortoise Reserve and Charles Darwin Research Station. Guests will then visit Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest, and from the comfortable Sacha Lodge, head into the jungle on expertly guided tours to discover colorful birds, fascinating reptiles, many species different monkeys, and an array of other wildlife. The Darwin & Orellana Discovery Tour starts at $6,915 per person double.

The tour includes:
3-nights at Scalesia Lodge – Isabela Island
3-nights at Finch Bay Hotel – Santa Cruz Island
1-night at Quito Airport Hotel – Quito
3-nights at Sacha Lodge – Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest

Scalesia Galapagos Lodge is situated in the highlands of Isabela Island on the slopes of a volcano, about 20 minutes from the town of Puerto Villamil. The modern, luxurious, safari-style tent resort is in the middle of a 40-acre forest with a spectacular view of the coast of Isabela Island, the Pacific Ocean, and other Islands of Galapagos dotting the horizon.

The award-winning Finch Bay Hotel enjoys a peaceful and magical beachfront location in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island. The hotel makes the ideal base for exploring the natural diversity and attractions of the island – including Tortuga Bay beach – and for taking day trips to nearby islands, aboard its own, specialized yacht. The hotel also implements best practices in sustainable tourism.
Located in a 5,000-acre private ecological reserve, Sacha Lodge provides a safe and comfortable base to experience the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. Highlights include exploring the forest on rainforest walks, canoeing the lake, the Sacha Lodge butterfly house, visiting the Yasuni parrot lick, and walking high in the trees on the 940-foot (275-meter) long canopy walkway. As this is a private reserve, the wildlife is well protected. It’s not uncommon for different monkeys to even play on the boardwalk or cross through the canopy over your comfortable accommodations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Active Travel, Canada travel, Nature & Wildlife, Nature Travel, Outdoor travel experiences, Uncategorized

Summer is a Five Sensory Season in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Just off the Bonavista Peninsula, be amazed by the spectacle of whale species like humpbacks, sperm, orcas, and more feeding, migrating and playing on Sea of Whales Adventures whale watching boat tours (Photo: Destination Canada)

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador  – From the rolling waves lapping off the coastline to the colorful clotheslines dancing in the ocean breeze, Newfoundland and Labrador is home to the slow way of life, especially when the seasons change. As spring rolls into summer, regular visitors to the province return, including the whales, birds and icebergs that heighten all senses. Visitors can experience the first sunrise in North America, witness the migration and play of whale species that return to the shores each year, and taste food foraged from land and sea. For relaxation, guests can soak in the bounty of the ocean in a bath with seaweed gathered off the coast of Grates Cove, go for a cold-water dip in the many outdoor locations including the North Atlantic Ocean, or sit and listen to the push and pull of the beach rocks as they roll with the waves.  

Sea of Whales Adventures 

The Atlantic Ocean surrounding Newfoundland and Labrador boasts as many as 22 diverse whale species. Just off the Bonavista Peninsula, travelers will smell the ocean breeze and be humbled by the spectacle of whale species like humpbacks, sperm, orcas, and more feeding, migrating, and playing on Sea of Whales Adventures whale watching boat tours. Family owned and operated since 2009, Sea of Whales Adventures offers three-hour whale watching tours daily from May 15 to October 14 and two-hour tours daily from June 15 to September 3. The two-hour tour rates start at $90 CAD for adults and $60 CAD for children, while the three-hour tour rates start at $110 CAD for adults and $80 for children.  

Preserving the Dark Sky 

Terra Nova National Park, the first designated Dark Sky Preserve in the province, allows travelers to gaze into the cosmos untouched by light pollution. Under the Dark Sky Preserve Program, the park is committed to protecting and improving nocturnal ecology by adjusting, retrofitting, or eliminating light fixtures while delivering new educational and interpretive programs on astronomy and various dark sky themes. The most popular viewing locations include Sandy Pond, rated to have the darkest skies in the park, Ochre Hill, historically used as a fire-watch station, Blue Hill, the highest point in the park putting guests among the stars, and Visitor Centre, with the starlit sky reflected across the water. New in 2024, UNESCO World Heritage Site Gros Morne National Park is applying to the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada for designation as a Dark Sky Preserve, offering visitors even more unaltered space to bask in the celestial views. 

Wild Island Kitchen 

Open year round, Wild Island Kitchen offers travelers the chance to dine aside breathtaking seascapes listening to the crashing waves while wild and sustainably caught seafood is cooked over an open fire. The locally owned tour and culinary group provides menus that change daily based on what is foraged and discovered each day, with guides teaching guests how to cook and prepare the cuisine. The “From Sea to Plate” Tour features sustainable, high-quality seafood cooked with water from the sea and cooked over an open fire, and guests can expect four to five courses over a three-hour period. For a shorter, one-hour experience, visitors can book the “Mug-Up” Tour which typically departs at 10 a.m. and includes a trip down the cove for a cup of tea or coffee and an interpretative food journey inspired by traditional coastal delights. Tour rates start at $175 CAD, but guests are encouraged to email [email protected] for specific pricing per tour. Pre-booking is required for both culinary experiences. 

Grates Cove Seaweed Baths 

In the northernmost part of Newfoundland and Labrador, weary travelers can soak in a seaweed bath at Grates Cave Co. Known for its healing and rejuvenating properties, seaweed is harvested off the coast of Grates Cove and transformed into 7 Fathoms skincare, producing a high-quality, highly bioactive brown seaweed extract suited for personal care. Grates Cove Co. uses the product, densely packed with essential nutrients and minerals, for the fresh seaweed baths in the comfort of the bathhouse overlooking the North Atlantic. The bathhouse is bookable from Monday to Sunday for two-hour time slots from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 2-4 p.m., and 5-7 p.m., and the price per couple is $110 CAD + HST (Harmonized Sales Tax). 

Maxxim Vacations New Tour 

From September 22 to 28, 2024, Maxxim Vacations will host the small group vacation “Newfoundland Through a Mindful Lens,” including a five-day, six-night itinerary designed to inspire travelers with a renewed sense of self and perspective. The tour is hosted by certified mindfulness guide Dr. Brian Dower, a Newfoundland native and retired chiropractor who regularly prescribed mindfulness training to his patients dealing with stress. Dr. Brian will introduce various mindfulness techniques and skills in focused tutorial sessions and then guide participants through opportunities to put the tools into practice. Guests will take hikes along breathtaking ocean trails, join foraging expeditions, and dine on specially prepared meals by award-winning chefs. The tour starts at $4,828 CAD plus taxes and includes six nights of accommodation at select hotels and inns, daily instructional mindfulness sessions with Dr. Brian, guided walks and hikes in St. John’s and Port Rexton, meals including daily breakfast, lunch, and select dinners, five-day ground transportation, a scenic driving tour of St. John’s and the Bonavista Peninsula, a mindful movement session, and more. 

For more information on the four provinces, visit these websites or follow on social media: 

Newfoundland and Labrador  

Web: www.newfoundlandlabrador.com  

Instagram:  @newfoundlandlabrador  

Twitter: @NLtweets  

Facebook:  @NewfoundlandLabradorTourism 

Prince Edward Island  

Web: www.tourismpei.com  

Instagram: @tourismpei   

Twitter: @tourismpei  

Facebook: @tourismpei 

Nova Scotia   

Web: www.novascotia.com  

Instagram: @VisitNovaScotia  

Twitter: @VisitNovaScotia  

Facebook: @NovaScotia 

New Brunswick  

Web: www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca   

Instagram: @DestinationNB  

Facebook: @ExploreNB  

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Active Travel, Cultural Travel, Uncategorized

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

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, culminating in National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21. National Indigenous History Month represents a meaningful opportunity to learn about the cultures and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, so we’ve put together 11 ways to engage in Indigenous experiences in British Columbia this summer. 

More than simply checking out a destination, Indigenous tourism encourages visitors to understand and respect different perspectives of the world, and to experience histories, traditions, and values in an authentic and unfiltered way.  

BC has the greatest diversity of Indigenous cultures in Canada: of the 12 unique Indigenous language families in the country, seven are located exclusively in BC. Together, there are 204 unique Indigenous communities in BC. Here are a few ideas to start an Indigenous cultural itinerary.
naaʔuu expereince at Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort in Tofino | Indigenous Tourism BC/Melissa Renwick 

New This Summer

New Indigenous experiences beckon travelers seeking a cultural experience paired with delicious cuisine: 

Try Plant Medicine Lemonade – Opened in February 2024, The Ancestor Café in Fort Langley brings traditional Indigenous nourishment to locals and visitors while supporting Indigenous food sovereignty. The eatery is owned by Chef Sarah Meconse Mierau, a member of the Sayisi Dene Nation. On the menu: bison and elk Bannock tacos, handcrafted plant-medicine jams and lattes, and other delicacies made with traditional Indigenous ingredients and enriched with health benefits. Beyond the food, the café features a fair-trade gallery displaying works by local Indigenous artists and brands. 
Get there: Fly into Vancouver International Airport. From here, Fort Langley is a one-hour drive.   

A Three-Hour Song, Dance & Cultural Experience – During festivals, weddings, and potlatches, the Tla-o-qui-aht People come together to share a wholesome meal while exchanging wisdom and stories, with the belief that good food facilitates an easier reception to teachings. Visitors can join the tradition at the Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort in Tofino, where the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation will host naaʔuu (which means “feast” in the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation language), an immersive experience taking place on select dates in June. Following a successful gathering last year, the three-hour experience tells stories from the Nation’s history through song, dance, and traditional carvings, presented during a symphony of cultural delicacies and foraged ingredients. Proceeds from the event go back to the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation to support language and cultural resurgence. Tickets start at $199 per person and can be purchased here. 
Get there: From Vancouver, fly into Tofino-Long Beach Airport with Pacific Coastal Airlines, or right into Tofino Harbour with Harbour Air. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo or Comox and drive approximately 3.5 hours to Tofino.Wildlife viewing experience at Spirit Bear Lodge | Indigenous Tourism BC

Where To Stay
Indigenous-owned and operated accommodation providers welcome visitors to experience warm hospitality alongside stories and culture—all with a deep-rooted respect for nature: 
Gorge Harbour Marina Resort – One of the most desirable cruising destinations in BC – Located at the edge of Desolation Sound, on Klahoose Nation land, Gorge Harbour Marina Resort offers an idyllic home base for adventurers eager to explore the sound, Cortes Island, and the Discovery Islands. The resort offers a multitude of overnight options, including a rustic lodge with four rooms, a cottage enclosed by lush gardens, and two self-contained trailers. Summer-specific options include 21 full-service RV sites, six glamping domes, and six tent sites—open for the season now. Summer activities span live music on the waterfront, yoga at the harbour, family movie nights, and more, as well as whale-watching tours offered between May 1 and October 15.
Get there: Take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo, then drive 1 hour and 45 minutes to Campbell River. From here, take a 10-minute ferry to Quadra Island, then a 45-minute boat trip to Cortes Island. You can also fly direct to the resort from Campbell River, Vancouver, or Seattle, Washington.   

Nemiah Valley Lodge – Off-grid & highly requested – Open year round, Nemiah Valley Lodge is located in the Chilcotin region, on Tŝilhqot’in Nation land. Here, guests are immersed in the food, history, and traditions of the Xeni Gwet’in community through local events, cultural experiences, and wildlife viewing. The all-inclusive packages include lodge activities such as lakeside yoga and meditation, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, archery, and more. Note: Nemiah Valley is taking bookings for 2025.
Get there: The lodge is a 30-minute floatplane ride from Whistler. Alternatively, take a flight from Vancouver International Airport to Williams Lake (available throughout the summer), and drive 2.5 hours to your destination. The lodge also offers a transfer from Williams Lake. 

Tsawaak RV Resort – A 2024 Indigenous Tourism Award Winner – Whether you’re seeking a cozy wilderness cabin or a place to park your RV, Tsawaak RV Resort— located in Tofino, on Tla-o-qui-aht Nation land—offers a tranquil space for rest and rejuvenation. Guests can choose from 34 RV sites and 13 longhouse-style cedar cabins—all situated close to Mackenzie Beach and a 30-minute walk from town. The central amenities building offers laundry facilities and vending machines, while the visitor centre houses an art gallery and retail shop. The resort provides easy access to Tofino’s most popular adventures, including surfing, hot springs, and hiking.
Get there: From Vancouver, fly into Tofino-Long Beach Airport with Pacific Coastal Airlines, or right into Tofino Harbour with Harbour Air. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo or Comox and drive approximately 3.5 hours to Tofino.

Spirit Bear Lodge – Located in the largest, temperate coastal rainforest in the world – Wildlife viewing and cultural experiences take centre stage at Spirit Bear Lodge, located in Klemtu, on Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation land. The lodge’s all-inclusive adventures are anchored by visits to cultural sites of the Kitasoo Xai’xai People, who have lived for thousands of years in the Great Bear Rainforest—the largest temperate coastal rainforest in the world. Guests can search for the elusive Spirit bear, watch grizzlies roam lush estuaries, see whales and other marine life, and explore the remnants of ancient villages. 

Spirit Bear Lodge is open from August to October, with limited reservations available.
Get there: Board a flight at Vancouver International Airport with Pacific Coastal Airlines to Bella Bella. You’ll be met by Spirit Bear Lodge staff and shuttled to the dock, where a lodge boat will take you on the two-hour journey to Klemtu.A group with Takaya Tours, rowing a traditional First Nations canoe in Deep Cove | Destination BC/Hubert Kang

What To Do

Indigenous tour operators lead visitors into their traditional territory, providing a new perspective of local wildlife, plants, and waters:

Guided nature adventures led by the local Nation – Explore Ahousaht territory with Ahous Adventures, which is owned by a nation that has stewarded the lands and waters of Vancouver Island since time immemorial. The popular hot springs tour cruises the coast and inlets of Clayoquot Sound, with guides pointing out wildlife along the way. Once onshore, guests take a 30-minute walk via wooden boardwalk through old-growth rainforest, leading to the healing mineral waters of the hot springs. Throughout the journey, guides will discuss the history and cultural significance of Hot Springs Cove, a site that has been used for centuries by the Ahousat Nation for medicinal and spiritual benefits.
Dates: Tours are available throughout summer and beyond. 

Cruise an Island Archipelago – Sidney Whale Watching, serving Sidney (just 30 minutes from Victoria, BC) and the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island, is owned and operated by the Tsawout First Nation, with whale-watching experiences taking place on the traditional territories of the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation. The three-hour whale watching tour cruises through the Gulf Island Archipelago, winding past orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles hunting for salmon. Sidney Whale Watching has a 95% whale-sighting rate throughout the year; if guests don’t spot a whale, they are welcome to join another tour free of charge, anytime.
Dates: Whale-watching tours take place daily between March and October. 

Take a cultural tour in a 35” canoe – Takaya Tours, based in Whey-ah-wichen, or Cates Park, in North Vancouver, leads guests through the territory of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. Guests can paddle the protected waters of Indian Arm in replica ocean-going canoes, while guides share songs and stories of ancient villages. There’s also an option to add a rainforest walking tour to your paddling adventure.
Dates: The Cates Park location is open between May and September for guided tours, as well as rentals of kayak, surf-skis, and stand-up paddleboards. 

BC Tourism Industry Awards Best Indigenous Tourism Operator Winner 2024 – Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours, which stewards the grizzly bear population in Bute Inlet—the ancestral home of the Homalco Nation—welcomes visitors to discover the area’s longstanding cultural and historical significance. The company’s full-day bear-watching and cultural tour leads guests to viewing areas that showcase grizzlies feeding on spawning salmon, along with plenty of opportunities to whale watch and bird watch. Guests can also wander through Aupe, an uninhabited Homalco village site.
Dates: Tours are offered between August and October.

2023 Yelp Travellers Choice – Sea Wolf Adventures, which leads tours in the Broughton Archipelago and the Great Bear Rainforest, on Musgamakw Dzawada’enuxw Nation territory, combines cultural experiences with grizzly- and whale-watching safaris. The Grizzly Bears of the Wild tour connects guests with the iconic grizzly inhabitants of the Great Bear Rainforest, with bonus viewings of Pacific white-sided dolphins, eagles, orcas, and other wildlife. The full-day tour departs from Port McNeill, and includes Indigenous interpretations of local landscapes, as well as stories about the Musgamakw Dzawada’enuxw People.
Dates: Tours run from May 31 through October. 

For more information on authentic Indigenous experiences in British Columbia visit www.indigenousbc.com.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, camping-glamping, camping-glamping-RVs-adVANturing, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Outdoors Travel, Uncategorized

Under Canvas, Backroads Team on New Glamping Adventures in National Parks

Grand Teton National Park. Under Canvas, a leader in upscale, outdoor hospitality, and Backroads, a leading luxury active travel company, are tripling their collaborative adventure experiences across US national parks © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Under Canvas, a leader in upscale, outdoor hospitality, and Backroads, a leading luxury active travel company, are tripling their collaborative adventure experiences available to travelers across U.S. National Parks over the next two years. In addition, the expanded line-up this year includes an all-new, glamping-only itinerary in Southwestern Utah with stays at both Under Canvas Bryce Canyon and Under Canvas Zion.

After first establishing a relationship in 2019 with trips in Montana’s West Yellowstone, and subsequently operating successful glamping tours in Tennessee and South Dakota, Under Canvas and Backroads are poised to further expand their trip selection for outdoor enthusiasts with more than 185 scheduled trips through 2025. From the scenic beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota to the dramatic red rock and hoodoo vistas of Southwest Utah, to the ancient Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, these world-class trips allow guests to enjoy a Backroads active adventure by day and by night continue to immerse themselves in nature with Under Canvas’ upscale glamping retreats. These properties embrace their natural setting, while featuring indoor luxuries, allowing guests to discover the outdoors in comfort and style.

Backroads is renowned for its expert Trip Leaders and flexible active vacations that offer travelers flexibility on each day of every trip. Ample support provided by multiple Backroads vans allows for a variety of daily route options suitable for differing levels of ability. The company’s collaboration with Under Canvas pairs three favorite multi-adventure trips with accommodations at Under Canvas’s stunning camps offering gorgeous tents, furnished with plush king-size beds, luxe linens and ensuite bathrooms. In addition, a stay at Under Canvas includes onsite complimentary programming such as live acoustic music, daily yoga, stargazing, outdoor games and nightly s’mores around the firepits, as well as a lobby tent that acts as a social, communal hub for café-style dining and lounging.

Backroads trips staying at Under Canvas properties in 2024 include:

“Since opening our first camp more than 10 years ago near West Yellowstone, Under Canvas has dedicated itself to inspiring connections with extraordinary places, people and the planet by enhancing access to the outdoors,” said Libbie Rice, Chief Commercial Officer of Under Canvas. “We have enjoyed our collaboration with Backroads over the years, and we’re excited to elevate our collaboration, aiming to offer even greater opportunities for active travelers to immerse themselves in the best of outdoor adventure and connect with nature through our two brands.”

“Guest feedback from our South Dakota trips with Under Canvas has been terrific,” said Tom Hale, Backroads Founder, President & CEO. “Backroads guests love the experience of sleeping in the deluxe glamping tents and sharing tales of the day’s activities over s’mores by the campfire in the evening—it’s really the perfect ending to an adventure-filled day. Whether you’re a kid or a kid at heart, sleeping under the stars is a great way to enjoy a Backroads national park vacation. The trips have been a popular addition to our summer schedule, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with Under Canvas far into the future.”

Backroads trips featuring Under Canvas properties are all available for immediate booking. For more information, visit backroads.com or call 800-462-2848.

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Cultural Travel, festivals & events, international travel, Uncategorized

Croatia Summer Festivals, Events Highlight Culture, Heritage

Dubrovnik Summer Festival | Credit: Dubrovnik City Tourism Board

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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