Bad RagARTz Exhibition, taking place May 4 – October 30, 2024, in Bad Ragaz and Vaduz, Switzerland, known as the Swiss Triennial of Sculpture, returns for the ninth edition as Europe’s largest open-air art exhibition featuring the works of 80 artists from around the globe.
BAD RAGAZ, SWITZERLAND – Grand Resort Bad Ragaz announced the return of the highly anticipated Bad RagARTz Exhibition, taking place May 4 – October 30, 2024, in Bad Ragaz and Vaduz. Bad RagARTz, also known as the Swiss Triennial of Sculpture, returns for the ninth edition as Europe’s largest open-air art exhibition featuring the works of 80 artists from around the globe.
“We look forward to welcoming guests to experience our beautiful resort once again during the 2024 edition of Bad RagARTz,” says Milos Colovic, General Manager of Grand Resort Bad Ragaz. “Snow-capped mountain views, the ornate architecture of our three renowned hotels, and the lush greenery surrounding the resort creates the perfect backdrop to showcase this year’s collection of sculptures. Our guests’ experience is also enhanced by the culinary artistry showcased across Bad Ragaz through the collective six Michelin stars. We are thrilled to support this prestigious gathering of artists.”
Under the theme “Present,” Bad RagARTz aims to remove barriers and bring art directly to the public, inviting visitors of all ages to experience the works of these international artists. From the spacious parks of Bad Ragaz to the streets and squares of Vaduz just a 15-minute drive away, the exhibition offers an immersive cultural experience free of charge. Guided tours led by experienced professionals provide in-depth insights into the artworks, enhancing the visitor experience. Special tours tailored for children and teenagers aim to make art education playful and engaging, fostering a love for creativity and expression from a young age.
The 2024 edition highlights a special piece this year, Brick House by Artist Simone Leigh. The 16-foot-tall sculpture is a bronze bust of a Black woman, which was originally showcased on New York’s High Line. Leigh was the first Black woman to represent the United States at the 2022 Venice Biennale, where she was awarded the “Best Sculpture Award” and the prestigious “Golden Lion” award. The sculpture was previously showcased on The High Line in New York City and can now be found on permanent display in the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz park. The exhibition also features works by acclaimed artists such as Daniel Spoerri, Gottfried Honegger, and Schang Hutter who are known for their iconic work in sculpture and design. Furthermore the exhibition shines a spotlight on young artists through the “Laboratory of Young Art,” offering financial support and a platform for emerging talents.
In addition to the outdoor exhibition, the Festival of Small Sculpture will take place in the historic Bad Pfafers near the renowned Tamina George. This offers visitors the opportunity to engage with smaller-scale artworks by the exhibiting artists. The festival, accompanied by literary, musical, and philosophical events, promises a vibrant celebration of art and culture.
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, nestled in the idyllic Alpine foothills of Eastern Switzerland, features 67pieces by 38 artists across its 120-acre grounds. Boasting two five-star hotels and a boutique hotel, the resort offers luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities, including an unparalleled thermal spa experience with multiple bathhouses. To book a stay at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz during Bad RagARTz, please visit the resort website: https://www.resortragaz.ch/en/.
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is located on the Alpine foothills in Eastern Switzerland. The property has two five-star hotels, Grand Hotel Quellenhof & Spa Suites and Grand Hotel Hof Ragaz, along with the boutique hotel Palais Bad Ragaz, offering 247 rooms and suites with styles ranging from historical to ultramodern. With six Michelin stars and a range of culinary offerings, as well as world-class spa and wellness facilities, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz provides guests with a luxurious retreat in the heart of Switzerland.
This Mother’s Day, go Global! Skip the chocolates and offer the gift of travel instead. According to research from Harvard Medical School, mother-child trips taken once a year can help ease stress, improve immune responses, and enhance overall well-being. That’s a powerful justification to bring mom along on one of these engaging excursions. Cultivating relationships with someone close to you can make a positive impact on your life, which means traveling together is a Mother’s Day gift that keeps on giving.
Here are a few immersive journeys from around the world that are the perfect gift for any mom.
For Holistic Healing and Wellness
Ananda in the Himalayas in India offers a luxury wellness retreat in the Himalayan foothills, the birthplace of India’s ancient practices of yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda. Located on a 100-acre Maharaja’s Palace Estate, the resort attracts mothers and children who return to Ananda year after year who can choose from personalized programs based on detox, fitness, rejuvenation, and anti-aging. Hit the spa, do yoga, and meditate together, take cooking classes, trek to an ancient Hindu temple, and white-water raft in the Ganges River. The Rebalance Program focuses on addressing menopause issues for older women while the Renew Program focuses on healthy aging for younger women. Discover the perfect balance between transformation and inner peace as one connects with nature at this idyllic healing sanctuary. // Check out special offer details for stays starting from May 1, 2024 until August 31, 2024.
For Admirers of Timeless Tradition and History
For a gift that’ll be cherished forever, Naya Travelerinvites travelers to embark on a transformative journey east to Japan. Experience the delicate beauty of the Sakura season and the nation’s iconic cherry blossoms gracing iconic sites like Tokyo’s Ueno Park and Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path. Dive into a gastronomic wonderland, indulging in the artistry of kaiseki dining and the freshness of Tsukiji Fish Market’s sushi. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants and hidden culinary gems, showcasing the country’s culinary prowess and dedication to perfection. Learn about Japan’s rich cultural tapestry, venturing into ancient temples, experiencing traditional tea ceremonies, and encountering the grace of geisha in Kyoto’s historic Gion district. Japan beckons travelers to celebrate the extraordinary women who shape our lives—a culturally-rich journey that promises to be nothing short of astonishing. // Naya Traveler is offering a 15% discount for trips booked before June 30, 2024.
For Fitness and Outdoor Adventure Enthusiasts
Las Catalinas is Costa Rica’s enchanting beach town along the country’s Gold Coast inspired by New Urbanist philosophy. The walkable town boasts nearly 1,000 acres of protected tropical dry forest interlaced with extensive hiking and biking trails. While not on the over 26 miles of trails. moms will love the convenience of the cardio classes and training at CORE by Chakfitness outdoor gym, massage and facials at WAKE Day Spa, wellbeing treatments, yoga, pilates, and sound healing at Center of Joy, mountain bike, kayak and SUP rentals at Pura Vida Ride, healthy food to go, private chef dinners or wine tastings at Copper & Stone gourmet market, fresh smoothies and organic dishes for all dietary restrictions at Pots & Bowls and much more. Treat mom to the artisan ice cream at Coquelicot while shopping at the boutique Las Catalinas Collection and Chunches Luxury Goods & Milkshakes in Plaza Mercado. // Check out the Fourth Night Free promotion with Beach Town Travel. Offer details for Santarena Hotel here and Las Catalinas Collection here.
For Fashionistas and Culture Aficionados
Brian McMahon, Senior Travel Curator forScenset, a luxury travel-tech company, invites gifting mothers an unforgettable trip through the beautiful landscapes of France. From the opulent halls of Versailles to the charming streets of Paris and the picturesque vineyards of Champagne, this 9-day journey promises an immersive experience like no other. Dine on “The Feast” at Restaurant Alain Ducasse, a recreation of a royal 18th-century banquet. Shop for the latest in French fashion at the boutiques in Le Marais with a personalized shopping itinerary. Create your own signature fragrance at a private perfume-making atelier. Explore art at the Musee d’Orsay and the Louvre guided by expert curators who will unveil the masterpieces of renowned artists. Journey through the Champagne region, visiting prestigious champagne houses and boutique producers. // Mention the Mother’s Day promotion and Scenset will waive the $500 trip planning fee and include a complimentary surprise activity worth up to $1000.
For the Eco-Conscious and Planet Aware
Hotel Belmar located in Monteverde, Costa Rica is all about offering the most locally sourced flavors, making it an ideal escape for moms looking to reconnect with the Earth. Its menus pay homage to Costa Rica’s agrarian traditions, with the nation’s first carbon-neutral farm at the nearby Finca Madre Tierra. The farm provides the Hotel Belmar with eggs, sugarcane, cheese, and coffee, creating a closed-loop system. Visitors can experience picking coffee beans, grinding sugar cane, and eating a farm- fresh snack on this unforgettable farm trip as part of the Belmar Gastronomy Program. Other sites like Restaurante Celajes, the Juice Bar, and the Belmar Brewery celebrate Hotel Belmar’s commitment to sustainable cuisine. Nearly four decades since its opening, Hotel Belmar has become a world-class example of eco-tourism that has protected and regenerated the Monteverde cloud forest and its biodiversity while providing educational and professional opportunities to the local community. // Learn more about Hotel Belmar and its sustainable practices that are waiting to be explored.
For Lounging on a Private Beach
Calabash Cove Resort and Spa, in Saint Lucia, offers its “Unconditional All Inclusive” package with all meals, beverages, room service, and much more. This adults-only boutique hotel has 26 villas featuring old Caribbean charm coupled with luxurious resort amenities of today. From the heavenly Windsong restaurant offering an Asian-inspired menu with an extensive vegetarian and vegan selection and its lively C-Bar overlooking the infinity pool to the peaceful Ti Spa, guests have everything at their fingertips when vacationing at Calabash Cove. Treat mom to an hour-long aromatherapy massage using essential oils derived from plants widely known for promoting relaxation and better sleep or one of the spa’s many massages and treatments. // Save 35-40% on the All-Inclusive Package and receive many perks. Check out the offer.
GeoCultura’s summer tours to Ireland experience the Wild Atlantic Way, exploring the geological and historical stories while focusing on the Dingle Peninsula and the iconic Ring of Kerry.
GeoCultura, a leading provider of immersive travel experiences, introduces two new captivating tours for summer 2024 that promise a deep dive into Ireland’s fascinating landscapes, blending discovery and immersion led by local experts in geology, history, and culture.
South-West Ireland – Dingle Peninsula and Ring of Kerry Tour, July 9-14: Embark on a six-day exploration along the Wild Atlantic Way of southwest Ireland, beginning in Cork and venturing through the Dingle and Iveragh Peninsulas. This journey unveils the rich tapestry of Irish history, folklore, and deep-time geological features shaping the present landscape.
Highlights:
Experience the Wild Atlantic Way, exploring the southwest coast’s coastal gems and cultural offerings.
Immerse in the landscapes, deep-time history, and folklore of southwest Ireland.
Unravel geological and historical stories while focusing on the Dingle Peninsula and the iconic Ring of Kerry.
Expert guides lead participants to dramatic coastlines, mountains, castles, and harbors, revealing the layers of history embedded in the rocks and landscapes.
Enjoy authentic encounters with traditional Ireland, from meeting native speakers to experiencing folk music and savoring top Irish cuisine.
Stay in charming country retreats and coastal hotels, offering comfort and character.
The tour commences at Ballymaloe House, outside Cork, concluding in the center of Cork (or Cork airport).
Overview: Embark on a six-day, five-night journey through southwest Ireland’s history and culture, starting in Cork and uncovering natural wonders in the Dingle and Iveragh Peninsulas. Gain new insights from expert tour leaders, exploring the geological mysteries behind Ireland’s landmarks.
Discover how natural and human forces have shaped the Irish landscape, visiting castles, cliffs, towns, and towers. Take to the sea for a new perspective on the coastline and hear tales of resilience on remote islands. Learn how southwest Ireland has evolved from deep time to its historical traditions, native language, and music.
See Ireland’s most spectacular sights, including the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, Blasket Islands, and Inch Beach. Stay in highly-rated accommodations, including a country house and a hilltop manor in County Kerry.
Pricing: $4,125 pp for the five-night tour, Single Supplement for solo travelers $530
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way: Galway Bay to Cliffs of Moher, September 1-7, 2024: The seven-day journey from Dublin to County Clare, explore the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. Stay at the Wild Honey Inn, nestled in the Burren Geopark, and discover the natural wonders that define this iconic region.
Highlights:
Explore Ireland’s deep-time origins with expert guides behind West Ireland’s famous landmarks.
Delve into the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, exploring its highest point and intricate cave systems.
Uncover human stories as you sail to an Iron Age fort on the Aran Islands and recognize landscapes featured in Hollywood movies.
End each day at The Wild Honey Inn with comfortable accommodations and delicious meals using locally sourced produce.
Enjoy Irish hospitality with pub visits and music sessions.
Overview: Embark on a seven-day, six-night tour starting in Dublin and venturing to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher. Relax at the Wild Honey Inn, a Michelin-starred haven within the Burren Geopark, and explore the surrounding wonders.
Expert Tour Leaders and local guides explain the region’s unique rocky landscape, its karst ‘pavements,’ and intriguing cave systems. Visit landmarks such as Dun Aonghasa, Poulnabrone Dolmen, and the towering Cliffs of Moher. Experience early medieval forts, hidden churches, coastal villages, and market towns set to the soundtrack of traditional Irish music.
Price: $4,500 for the seven-day, six-night tour. Single supplement for solo travelers: $745.
GeoCultura’s 2024 tours offer an immersive experience led by knowledgeable guides, providing a voyage of understanding, connection, and appreciation. Tours range from three to seven days and can be fully guided, partially guided, or self-guided for those seeking a more personalized experience.
GeoCultura’s small group tours range from two to nine days, blending earth science with local history and regional guides to explore the world’s most important landscapes. The tours aim to immerse participants in local culture, cuisine, and natural wonders.
WASHINGTON, DC—Rails to Trails Conservancy, the nation’s largest trail, walking and biking advocacy organization, is calling on people across the country to get outside on trails this spring to celebrate the many ways that trails and connected trail networks bring joy and impact to people’s lives. Central to RTC’s call to action is Celebrate Trails Day on April 27, 2024, with hundreds of events nationwide to inspire more people to make trails, walking and biking part of their everyday lives.
Held on the fourth Saturday of April, Celebrate Trails Day was started by Rails to Trails Conservancy in 2013, to encourage people across the country to get outside and enjoy the nation’s exceptional trails and trail systems.
Celebrate Trails Day is more than a day outside, it is an opportunity to experience and share the joy and impact of trails. The nation’s 41,000+ miles of multi-use trails bring incredible value to our everyday lives, contributing to the well-being of people, places and the planet. It is RTC’s ultimate goal to link the 150+ trail networks that currently exist into a Great American Trail, spanning 3,800 miles across the continent.
Around the country, Rails to Trails’ partners are planning group rides, nature walks, family-friendly festivals, volunteer cleanups and other community events for Celebrate Trails Day. Explore these events and find more inspiration for your day on the trail, including ideas to help you design your own trail adventure and our virtual event series where we host conversations with partners about the ways trails contribute to big issues in our lives.
So far, more than 150 events are planned along trails, but you can also create your own celebration.
“There is unmatched potential in trail networks to make walking and biking part of our everyday lives, unlocking all of the good that happens when we are active outside, in the places where we live,” said Brandi Horton, RTC’s vice president of communications. “That’s why RTC is uniting everyone in a common appreciation for trails—and the impact of connecting trails in our communities. Our time on the trail is so much more than a day outside.”
Here are five reasons to get outside on trails, says RTC:
It’s one of the best seasons for outside adventures with milder weather across the country—perfect for time on the trail. People can find their perfect trail using RTC’s free trail-finder app, TrailLink.
It can be a safe way to get around without a car. Currently, people who walk and bike are increasingly likely to be seriously injured or killed in crashes with cars and trucks. Connected trail networks separate people from vehicles, making it a safer transportation option for more people.
It’s the right time to let elected officials know that trails matter to you. On Celebrate Trails Day and every day, our time on the trail is an act of advocacy sending a message that trails are important to people across the country. As Congress and local officials make decisions about ways to invest infrastructure resources, getting outside on the trail is an important way to build support.
There are more places to walk, bike and be active outside than ever! With more than 41,000 miles of multiuse trails—where you can walk, run, ride, skate and more—and over 150 trail networks emerging, there are safe places to walk, bike and be active outside in every single state and hundreds of communities across the country.
Participate for a chance to win a prize pack
Let Rails to Trails Conservancy know you’re planning to participate in Celebrate Trails Day on April 27, 2024, and you’ll be automatically entered to win a prize pack, featuring:
Explore the nation’s 41,000+ miles of multi-use trails using TrailLink™, RTC’s free trail-guide website and app.
Celebrate Trails Day is the annual celebration of the spring trail season, recognized on the fourth Saturday in April. The national day of celebration is organized by Rails to Trails Conservancy, the country’s largest trails, walking and biking organization—with a grassroots community more than 1 million strong. RTC is dedicated to building a nation connected by trails, reimagining public spaces to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike and be active outdoors.
Embark on a transformative Women-only Icelandic Adventure with Naya Traveler
Celebrated globally this Friday on March 8th, International Women’s Day inspires people around the world to recognize the social, economic, political, and cultural achievements of women. As the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”, the travel and hospitality industry is seeing an influx of female-focused experiences and trips, in addition to more hotels and destinations appealing to female travelers by making every woman feel encouraged and inspired while traveling. In honor of International Women’s Day, here’s some destinations encouraging women to go outside their comfort zone, intriguing new female-only trips, and destinations making a difference by investing in women.
Build Confidence and Learn a New Skill at Las Catalinas in Costa Rica
Travel encourages people to go beyond their comfort zone. Engaging in new experiences and pursuits builds confidence, independence, and opens new horizons. Located in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, the car-free, seaside town of Las Catalinas is a destination that is ideal for female travelers whether traveling solo or with other women looking to embrace change, go beyond the ordinary and try something new. Access to Las Catalinas is easy with several non-stop, direct flights from cities including Miami, Houston, New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Toronto and more. Once in town, the self-discovery begins in a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly hardscape that embraces nature – a place that is perfect for learning a new skill or activity with an array of pursuits and activities ideal for a restorative getaway.
Beach Town Travel, the preferred travel agency in Las Catalinas, can curate an unforgettable stay focusing on soft to extreme adventure ideal for women looking to get outside of their comfort zone. For solo guests or two friends or family traveling together, the stylish boutique Santarena Hotel is in the heart of town offering a convenient base camp in the center of it all. For women traveling in a bigger group, Beach Town Travel can arrange villa accommodations in the Las Catalinas Collection with over 100 lodging accommodations across their three lodging types: Baranda, Bon Vivant and 229 Las Catalinas. Take advantage of the current 4th night free promotion at both Santarena Hotel and Las Catalinas Collection or any of their other special offers. For the adventurous at heart, guests can learn a new activity and take surfing lessons, horseback riding at La Estancia, scuba diving, mountain biking, paddle boarding or kayaking with Pura Vida Ride, trail running through the tropical dry forest and more. Gather with other like-minded women for meditations, visualizations, forest bathing or take a sound healing journey, yoga class, organic cooking class, ice bath therapy, cold plunge or other wellness-focused activities at Center of Joy, the town’s wellness center.
The conscious town of Las Catalinas is Costa Rica’s newest desirable beach town inspired by New Urbanist philosophy. The car-free, highly walkable town includes several inns and intimate hotels, shops, restaurants, retail, day spas, pedestrian streets, parks, plazas, and recreational facilities, all located between two of Costa Rica’s loveliest Pacific beaches and 1,000 acres of protected tropical dry forest, which are interlaced with extensive hiking and biking trails. Within the town, the walkable public spaces are interwoven with nature, and the architecture emphasizes indoor-outdoor living and scenic views. Cars are refreshingly absent. For more information, visit www.lascatalinascr.com.
Embark on a transformative Women-only Icelandic Adventure with Naya Traveler, where curated experiences promise to immerse participants in the untamed beauty of the land of fire and ice. From savoring culinary delights in Reykjavik to rejuvenating at the Sky Lagoon, travelers delve into steaming hot springs and ancient glaciers, culminating in a journey of a lifetime. Guided explorations of Thingvellir National Park, black lava beaches, and private ice climbs reveal the mysteries of Iceland’s landscapes, while retreats at Umi Hotel offer spa experiences amidst breathtaking vistas. From steaming hot springs to ancient glaciers, this exclusive women-only adventure promises an immersive experience in the enchanting landscapes of Iceland.
Naya Traveler extends an invitation for women to experience the extraordinary, where every moment is curated for a lifetime of memories. With rates starting at $1200USD per person per day, inclusive of accommodations, private transfers, and personal local guides, this extraordinary adventure awaits, best experienced between September and early April for a chance to witness the captivating aurora borealis.
Founded in 2016, Naya Traveler offers tailor-made experiential journeys to a curated selection of destinations steeped in ancient traditions and customs. Rooted in first-hand expertise and intimate knowledge, Naya Traveler’s highly personalized itineraries focus on exclusive insider experiences that bring back purpose and value to travel and provide a unique space to discover a destination through the eyes and knowledge of those who know it best. Naya Traveler works with an exceptional group of local hosts and expert guides in each destination, ranging from historians and artists to ethnographers and chefs—all of whom will guide travelers through the threads of a destination’s rich cultural tapestry. For more information, visit www.nayatraveler.com.
The Ananda Spa Foundation (ASF) was created by award-winning, world-renowned wellness retreat, Ananda in the Himalayas in northern India. The foundation is committed to giving back to the community and promoting women’s empowerment through education and training. By providing women with the tools they need to succeed, the foundation can help create a more inclusive and diverse workforce and make a positive impact on society. ASF is committed to providing a better future for the underprivileged girls of India with the objective of empowering women from lower socio-economic groups. In Uttarakhand, women are the working members of the family and thus the financial backbone of their communities. In support of this cause, Ananda has established India’s first private not-for-profit academy providing fully sponsored training and education for underprivileged women in the field of spa therapy.
The mission of the foundation is to empower women from the community by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to build successful careers in the spa industry. Students receive top-notch training and education in spa therapy, ensuring that they are well-equipped to succeed in this exciting field. Upon completion of the program, the students will be guaranteed job opportunities in reputable hotels and spas, giving them the chance to support their families and live fulfilling lives. Through this initiative, Ananda in the Himalayas has transformed the lives of many girls in the community. For more information, visit here.
Ananda in the Himalayas is a world-renowned holistic wellness retreat in the Himalayan foothills in North India, overlooking the spiritual town of Rishikesh and river Ganges. Located in the former Palace Estate of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal, the retreat spans 100 acres of lush grounds and gardens and surrounded by forested hillside. As the birthplace of Ayurveda, Yoga, and meditation, this spiritual destination embodies and facilitates wellness and enlightenment. The philosophy of Ananda revolves around Ayurveda, holistic wellness, yoga, meditation, emotional healing, spiritual awareness, and healthy cuisine. The heart of Ananda lies in its 25,000 square foot wellness center, offering beautifully designed therapy rooms with nature views, open-air yoga and meditation pavilions, an outdoor pool, a physiotherapy center, gymnasium, and a comprehensive range of Ayurvedic and international therapies for holistic cleansing of the body, mind, and soul. For more information, visit www.anandaspa.com.
Bettoja Hotels in Rome Offers Special Women’s Day Package
In celebration of International Women’s Day 2024, Bettoja Hotelsis offering a special offer for all stays from March 8th – 10th, 2024 in the Eternal City for a minimum of two people. Book any type of room at the Hotel Mediterraneo or the Hotel Massimo d’Azeglio and guests will receive a 15% discount including breakfast.
For those who wish to taste our Chefs specialties (specializing in Piedmontese cuisine) at the Ristorante Massimo d’Azeglio, guests can enjoy a Mimosa Cocktail with a dedicated menu created for International Women ‘s Day on March 8th.
Spanning five generations, family-owned and operated Bettoja Hotels’ hotels (Hotel Mediterraneo, Hotel Massimo D’Azeglio, Hotel Atlantico) are located right in the heart of Rome. Within walking distance from historic landmarks including the Colosseum, Opera House, Forum, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps, the three hotels are the ideal basecamp for embarking on the ultimate Roman holiday. The Stazione Termini, convenient for train excursions to Florence or Naples, is also just a few blocks away. For information, contact [email protected] or www.bettojahotels.it.
BOSTON — As guided group travel continues to soar in popularity, EF Go Ahead Tours (GAT), a premier provider of culturally immersive and education-based group tours, responds as the first operator to open bookings to all of its tour destinations through 2026. It is the largest and most diverse collection of itineraries to open 35 months in advance. By offering such generous lead time, travelers will realize incredible value by booking future travel at today’s prices. And for ultimate flexibility, EF Go Ahead offers a $99 down AutoPay with payments in manageable monthly installments, one of the few credit and interest-free payment plans in today’s economy.
2023 was an extraordinary year for guided group travel, with all indicators pointing to even stronger future demand through 2025. Based on sales in the last quarter, EF Go Ahead has seen bookings into late 2025 increase by almost 30% compared to 2024 bookings in the same time period last year. Lead time isn’t the only benefit at EF Go Ahead Tours. The company is also expanding its tour offerings in Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe, focusing on less-traveled, expertly-vetted gems aimed at embedding travelers into local culture, gastronomy, and traditions.
“It’s not just where people want to go, it’s how they want to travel that defines the future of our industry,” says Heidi Durflinger, President, EF Go Ahead Tours. “People want connection and meaning, so they are choosing guided group travel for these transformative moments. By launching more departure dates than ever before to all of our destinations through 2026 (at 2024 prices), we are enabling travelers to plan for the experiences they desire at a tremendous value.”
EF Go Ahead data supports emerging trends for 2024 travel and beyond:
Travelers Are Going Guided for Planning-Intensive Destinations: Based on EF Go Ahead Tours’ recent (November 2023) bookings, trips to both Asia and Africa – two highly desired but not easily accessed destinations—were up 70% in sales compared to November 2022. Looking at the first half of 2024, Thailand and Japan departures are both up 57% compared to the same time in 2023, further underscoring travelers want to access these destinations in a guided group experience. Highlights of Southern Thailand: Bangkok, Phuket & Krabi and Highlights of Vietnam: Hanoi, Hạ Long Bay & Hô Chi Minh Cityare two new ways to see Asia through 2026.
More Meaningful, Deeper Dives into Culture, Food, and History are on the Rise: In the last few months, bookings for longer tours continue to see a big increase compared to the same time last year, with a 110% increase in tours lasting more than 16 days. Itineraries with a longer “Grand Tour” lens showcase the many advantages of modern group travel with 12+ days of travel. While these tours are increasingly popular in Asia, Grand Tour of Costa Rica: From the Caribbean to the Pacific is an exciting new itinerary that strikes the perfect balance of gastronomy and adventure and The Greek Ionian Islands: Kefalonia & Corfu with Nafplio & the Athens Riviera Extension offers an insider’s look at the less traveled parts of the Greek Isles.
More Opportunities to Connect Through Travel Drives Social Tourism & Solo Tours: The end of 2023 saw a soaring rate of 380% more solo travelers embarking on solo-only group tours than the previous fall. EF Go Ahead continues to strengthen its commitment to the “travel solo, but never alone” style bringing its unparalleled collection of solo-only tours up to 18 offerings in 2023.
“Peak Season” is Now All Seasons: While “hot” seasons like summer will always be popular in Europe, other seasons are growing at a rapid rate—even to destinations like Italy! “Shoulder Season” and off-season—Oct-April—offers less crowds and temperate weather with more access to local charm. In Oct-Dec. of 2023, EF Go Ahead Tours departed 30% more travelers to Italy than during the same period for 2022. Future shoulder season travel to other parts of the world like Asia, Australia, Latin America & Africa are also on the rise.
Value Oriented: All Reward, No Risk. Booking future trips with EF Go Ahead is a win-win. Travelers lock in today’s costs for future travel and through EF Go Ahead’sAutoPay, travelers benefit from one of the few credit and interest-free payment plans available in the current economy. Flexible, fee-free options allow changes to dates and destinations up to the Tour Finalization Date.
Travelers can visit www.goaheadtours.com for more information and to see all available trips. Check out destinations on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Instagram and Facebook.
EF Go Ahead Tours offers more than 175 guided trips across six continents. Each carefully planned, expertly led tour makes it easy for curious travelers of all ages to get to the heart of a destination. With a maximum group size well below the industry average, each trip has the perfect balance of planned sightseeing and free time to explore. EF Go Ahead Tours is a part of EF Education First, the world’s largest international education company that was founded in 1965. With a mission of opening the world through education, EF Education First has 612 offices and schools in 50 countries.
On April 8, 2024, North America will witness a spectacular celestial event — a total solar eclipse. This rare phenomenon occurs when the Moon completely obscures the Sun, casting a shadow over Earth and briefly turning day into twilight.
To help you experience this awe-inspiring event, Priceline, an online travel agency, is providing information about traveling to key locations within the path of totality. Priceline gathered average hotel, flight, and rental car costs for the Eclipse weekend in various U.S. cities.
Priceline is recommending booking travel arrangements well in advance to ensure the best experience.
The Costs of Traveling To Watch The Total Solar Eclipse, According to Priceline:
Total Solar Eclipse Weekend (Saturday, April 6 – Tuesday, April 9)/ Booking Period: 11/19-1/19/2023
Airfare (Average Cost R/T)
Hotel (Average Cost Per Night)
Rental Car (Average Daily Rate)
San Antonio, TX:
$797
$255
$128
Austin, TX:
$644
$294
$126
Dallas, TX:
$408
$216
$116
Indianapolis, IN:
$506
$248
$76
Cleveland, OH:
$456
$204
$97
Buffalo, NY:
$845
$329
$105
Shreveport, LA:
$450
$122
$43
Insights from The Total Solar Eclipse 2024 Data, According to Priceline:
Variability in Accommodation Costs: There’s a significant variation in hotel prices across different cities, with some like Buffalo ($329/night) and Austin ($294/night) on the higher end and others like Shreveport, LA ($122/night) more affordable. This indicates a diverse range of accommodation options for eclipse travelers.
Premium Pricing in Prime Viewing Locations: Cities like Buffalo, NY, and San Antonio, TX, which presumably offer prime viewing spots for the eclipse, have notably higher travel costs. This suggests a premium pricing trend in locations considered ideal for eclipse viewing.
Economic Opportunity for Varied Destinations: Cities like Dallas, TX, and Indianapolis, IN, with relatively lower costs, might emerge as popular alternatives for eclipse watchers, indicating an opportunity for these cities to attract tourists priced out of more expensive locations.
Surge in Road Travel to Eclipse Locations: The demand for rental cars, especially in cities with higher daily rates, suggests that many eclipse enthusiasts might be planning road trips,
Insights Comparing Travel Period 2024 To The Same Period in 2023, According to Priceline:
Eclipse-Driven Demand Surge: The total solar eclipse is creating a significant spike in travel demand, evidenced by over 2000% more searches for flights to Indianapolis and 8000% more for Buffalo hotels compared to the same period in 2023.
Differential Pricing Trends: Cities like Austin are experiencing dramatic price fluctuations concerning the eclipse, with airfares more than doubling during the event but then decreasing by 30% afterward, indicating dynamic pricing strategies in response to event-driven demand.
Varied Travel Costs Across Cities: The eclipse impacts travel costs differently across cities, with some like San Antonio and Buffalo seeing high airfares and hotel rates, while others like Shreveport offer more budget-friendly options.
Rental Car Demand Peak: There’s a noticeable trend of increased rental car demand in eclipse viewing areas, with a 1500% increase in searches for rental cars in Cleveland, highlighting the preference for road travel to view the eclipse.
The “Hokuriku Charity Restaurant” continues to elevate their efforts to aid locals in need who are recovering in the aftermath of the recent earthquake that impacted areas within the Ishikawa Prefecture. The charity initiative is led by chefs from celebrated eateries Makinonci and Remref in Kanazawa, and also includes members from various renowned restaurants in the Hokuriku area, including the one-Michelin Star French restaurant, L’Atelier de NOTO and top Japanese eatery Ipponsugi Kawashima.
The celebrated chefs within the initiative take turns traveling through the areas that have been most heavily impacted, with a mission to provide meals to the local communities as they face the long road to recovery. Setting up local kitchens onsite, the chefs dish out hot, delicious meals at a pace of 700-800 per day in some areas in line with their fierce solidarity and loyalty to their regions.
Although Noto-based chef members from Bossom and Villa Della were personally, extremely affected by the extreme damage, they prefer to focus on the greater good and are actively cooking and feeding those in need.
Though meals are flowing, many supplies are still in need so the initiative is also seeking donations to help locals rebuild their lives.
The group launched in 2016, in effort to assist communities in need that faced devastation from the earthquakes in Kumamoto and will continue their initiatives of support throughout this recovery period.
Intrepid travelers looking to save big on 2024 bucket-list travel need look no further than tour companies Trafalgar, Contiki, Costsaver, Insight Vacations and Brendan Vacations. These travel brands are offering discounts on itineraries across the world, from Italy to New Zealand to Morocco, but only for a few weeks.
Contiki: Contiki, the social travel company for 18-35 year olds is offering epic savings on a variety of trips. Travelers can get a taste of cobblestone streets and delicious cuisine with the staple European Explorer at 25% off or witness exotic wildlife from penguins to hippos and wildebeests on the new Sea, Safari, South Africa at 15% off. Anyone looking to do some island hopping in the new year can save 20% on the Thai Island Hoping East itinerary or set out on a USA Road Trip and save 20%. The Big Social Sale is available on a selection of itineraries through Jan. 31, 2024.
Brendan Vacations: Celtic travel expert, Brendan Vacations is offering guests up to 20% off all guided trips for 2024 including the Best of Scotlandand Iconic Ireland and Ashford Castle itineraries. Travelers interested in independent, fully customizable itineraries can save $200 off pp on Self Drive and Locally Hosted Rail experiences, and $250 off pp Private Chauffeur and Lux Self Drive experiences. The Brendan Vacations sale runs through February 15, 2024.
Trafalgar: Select itineraries from global guided vacation company, Trafalgar, are 15-20% off through February 15, 2024. Travelers can save 20% on top itineraries such as the 10-day Best of Morocco itinerary with visits to Casablanca, Fes and Marrakesh. Or Western Discovery, a new itinerary for 2024 that travels across California, Nevada and Arizona over the course of two weeks with visits to the Grand Canyon, Balboa Park, Yosemite National Park, Monterey and more.
Insight Vacations: Premium tour company Insight Vacations is offering 15-20% off select itineraries across the globe through February 15, 2024. Travelers can save 20% and spend two weeks exploring the stunning architecture and rich culture of Hungary, Austria and Poland on Highlights of Eastern Europe. Or save 18% off on Italian Intermezzo and venture throughout Italy from Milan to Rome with stops in the lakes district, Venice, Florence and more.
Costsaver: Travelers can make the most of their adventure Costsaver, the tour company that allows travelers to tailor their travel experience to suit their travel needs. The brand is offering 15-20% off select itineraries across the globe through February 15, 2024. Save 20% off Highlights of Scandinavia and explore the beauty and history of the North in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. Or check out and save 20% on Best of Colorado a new itinerary for 2024 that ventures to Rocky Mountain National Park, Denver, Vail, Colorado Springs and more.
Boston, Mass. — Road Scholar, the nonprofit that is a world leader in educational travel for older adults, is having an early kick-off of their 50th anniversary celebration with a contest called the “Great Global Giveaway.” Seven lucky winners will win one of seven educational adventures to seven continents, complete with airfare for two people. These seven trips, like all the programs Road Scholar offers, will have an emphasis on learning about the destination the winners are visiting through educational content and immersive experiences.
The seven winners will be drawn from a list of all or Road Scholar’s subscribers, including those already on their mailing list and anyone who signs up in 2024. To enter, starting January 1, 2024, and continuing throughout the year, anyone who’s not already on the Road Scholar mailing list can sign up at www.roadscholar.org/enter. Subscribers can also earn extra chances to win by referring friends who aren’t already on Road Scholar’s mailing list online at www.roadscholar.org/friend. Each friend referral provides another chance to win.
The Great Global Giveaway culminates in January 2025 when the winners will find a golden ticket on page 50 of Road Scholar’s January catalog. Winners will also be notified directly by phone or email so they’re sure not to miss the good news. The seven trips include:
Africa | African Safari: A Close-up on Wildlife
Antarctica | “Land Ho!” Icebergs and Penguins in Otherworldly Antarctica
Asia | The People of the Mekong: Vietnam, Cambodia and Angkor Wat
Australia | Discover a Land Down Under: Melbourne, Adelaide & Sydney
Europe | French Art Voyage: Paris, the Rhône and the French Riviera
North America | The Best of the Grand Tetons to Banff: Iconic National Parks
South America | South American Odyssey: Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Machu Picchu & More
“With more people than ever wanting to find meaningful experiences by studying abroad, we couldn’t think of a better way to stir excitement than to give away trips to all seven continents,” said Maeve Hartney, Chief Program Officer of Road Scholar. “The Great Global Giveaway celebrates our 50th anniversary in 2025 and our legacy of helping older adults find the joy of learning and exploration with friends old and new. Road Scholar has always been about active learning and fostering a love for adventure, and the Great Global Giveaway embodies that spirit,” she said.
In addition to the Great Global Giveaway, Road Scholar wants to hear the stories of its participants over the last half-century. “For nearly 50 years, six million Road Scholar participants have experienced the joys of learning and travelling with us,” said Hartney. “We’re gathering 50 of the most heart-warming, poignant, charming and funny stories from the Road Scholar community.” Past Road Scholar travelers are encouraged to share a story about their travels with Road Scholar have impacted them at www.roadscholar.org/story.
Based in Boston, Massachusetts, not-for-profit Road Scholar is one of the world’s largest and most innovative creators of experiential learning opportunities. Founded in 1975 as Elderhostel and rebranding as Road Scholar in 2010, the tour company serves 80,000-100,000 lifelong learners annually. Programs combine travel and education to provide experiential learning opportunities featuring an extraordinary range of topics, formats and locations in more than 100 countries and throughout the United States. Alongside renowned experts, participants experience in-depth and behind-the-scenes learning opportunities by land and by sea on educational travel adventures designed for boomers and beyond. Road Scholar is a diverse community of knowledge seekers and explorers, united in the belief that lifelong learning is a vital part of overall wellbeing. For more information, visit www.roadscholar.org.
