A Safari North of the Arctic Circle

September 5, 2018 Arctic, Canada

By John Newton, AFAR Ambassador

Travelers with Quark Expeditions photographing belugas in Cunningham Inlet on Somerset Island

Every year, thousands of travelers head to Africa in the hope of seeing the famous “Big Five” animals—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo—during a stay at one of the continent’s safari camps. Far fewer, only a couple of hundred each summer, travel to Somerset Island, with the goal of spotting the wildlife there. Few places in the world are more remote than Somerset Island, located in Canada’s newest province, Nunavut, carved out from the Northwest Territories in 1999. When I was offered the opportunity to travel there and stay at the Artic Watch Wilderness Lodge on a trip with Quark Expeditions, I knew it was one I couldn’t pass up.

My last trip to the far north of Canada was in 2016, to northern Manitoba, and while I was there I picked up a copy of Barry Lopez’s Arctic Dreams, which I’d recommend to anyone interested in the flora, fauna, and people who live at the edge of the world. Ever since finishing it, I was determined to see the Arctic—and with Lopez’s appreciation for how even the most apparently desolate landscapes are teeming with life, if you learn how to look with a different perspective. Now I would have a chance to travel 500 miles beyond the Arctic Circle, far past the end of the tree line and where the midnight sun doesn’t set from the end of May until the middle of August.

Coming up with a Big Five for Somerset Island is a challenge—there are only three animals that are truly big: beluga whales, polar bears, and musk oxen. My safari check list would be rounded out by some smaller species too: arctic foxes, hares, and lemmings.

My journey to the Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge required a stop in Yellowknife, where I saw the animals of the Arctic in taxidermy states at the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre. The following day, our group of 23 travelers flew just over three hours north of Yellowknife, to a landing strip on uninhabited though immense (it measures some 9,500 square miles) Somerset Island.

Our Arctic safari camp consisted of two rows of guest tents, a main tent where we gathered each morning and evening, and another tent for dining. Every morning we chose from different expeditions, and my focus was on the wildlife. On the first day, I headed out with a group of ten to Polar Bear Point, where our guides were able to spot a tiny white dot on the horizon—a polar bear. Despite the name of the point, it’s not teeming with polar bears. We got within 100 meters or so of the young male polar bear thanks to a quick lesson from our Quebecois guide on how to keep low and approach it as a compact group. Once the bear heard us, he stood up on two legs, sniffed in our direction, rolled on his back, and then wandered away. One down.

Muskoxen on Somerset Island

If Polar Bear Point is an obvious place to look for polar bears, then Muskox Ridge seems like a logical place to search for muskoxen, one of the iconic animals of the Arctic. Though the beasts are skittish, our group that day was led by Tessum Weber, the son of Richard Weber and Josée Auclair, the owners of the lodge. Having spent his childhood summers on Somerset Island, he brings decades of experience to the challenge of approaching muskoxen, and we got close enough to see one stand up on a small hill, in a Lion King like moment, before it continued on its way.

The belugas were both the easiest animals to spot and the most impressive. Each year some 2,000 gather in Cunningham Inlet once the ice breaks. On our third day at the camp, the sun was shining and temperatures in the low 60s, and the belugas seemed to be enjoying the pleasant weather as much as we were. Hundreds of white dots filled much of Cunningham Inlet, and whether sitting on the shore hearing their chirps or kayaking alongside, the sight was breathtaking.

Even when they centuries old, arctic willows grow low to the ground.

While much of my focus was on the animals of the island, the flora is fascinating as well. Exploring Somerset Island was like walking through the early chapters of my botany textbook. It is a landscape of mosses and lichens, the most primitive plants, while other species reflect unique adaptations to the Arctic conditions. Arctic willows that were a hundred years old were still only an inch tall, with no need to grow above other plants competing for sunlight.

Back on my pursuit of the animals on my Arctic checklist, Tessum also took us to two fox dens, where young pups were playing. With the foxes we had to maintain a significant distance and could only watch them through binoculars—a reminder that not every moment needs to be recorded on Instagram. On my last full day on the island, a hare hopped up just a few meters from me before darting off up a hillside. All that remained was the elusive lemming, and despite the guides looking in every lemming hole, I had to leave without seeing one. My exploration of the Arctic isn’t over yet.

Interested in learning more about John’s journey? Read more about it on AFAR.com, the USTOA blog, check out Quark Expeditions Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge itinerary.

John has almost 20 years’ experience in travel, both on staff at Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure and writing for other magazines, newspapers, and websites. He is AFAR’s Branded Content Advisor and the founder of Signal Custom Content, a travel branded content consulting company. In addition to his trip to Nunavut, his 2018 travel plans include Austria, El Salvador, Guanajuato in Mexico, Hungary, Vancouver, and Vietnam.

September 1 Kicks Off Travel Together Month!

September 1, 2018 Travel

During this year’s Travel Together Month, the members of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) are putting the world on sale with nearly 100 offers on bucket list trips to all seven continents.

The month long celebration showcases offers like free airfare, direct savings, and complimentary add-ons from the country’s leading travel companies. Book by September 30, 2018 to take advantage of these exclusive offers and make your dream vacation a reality.

Photo courtesy of YMT Vacations

Exclusive offers include:

YMT Vacations: Save $500 per couple on the “National Parks of the Golden West” tour for available for travel from May to July 2019.
SITA World Tours: Save $200 per couple on the eight-day “Uganda Wildlife Safari” tour available for travel by December 31, 2018.
Lindblad Expeditions: Free roundtrip airfare between Miami and Costa Rica or Panama City, or a free overnight and sightseeing in Panama City on select “Costa Rica & The Panama Canal” itinerary departure dates in 2018 and 2019.
Gate 1 Travel: Save $400 per couple on the “Antarctica Cruise with Buenos Aires” itinerary including an 11-night Antarctica cruise and three nights in Buenos Aires for travel November 2019 – March 2020.
International Expeditions: Kids under 18 sail for 25% off the published fares on the June 28 or August 9, 2019, Galapagos Islands expedition cruises.
CroisiEurope Cruises: Save $1,000 per couple on “Southern Africa: Journey to the Ends of the Earth” with an unexpected cruise on Lake Kariba, Africa’s largest man-made lake, available for travel through 2019.
Abercrombie & Kent: Save $1,000 per person on the August 18-30, 2019 departure of the “Italy Cruise: Hidden Treasures from Florence to Venice,” luxury itinerary.
smarTours: Save up to $1,000 per couple on the “Deluxe Dubai & Abu Dhabi” itinerary with non-stop, round-trip flights available for travel through 2018 and 2019.
Collette: Enjoy a free three-night Fiji extension on South Pacific Wonders tours with May-August 2019 departures dates.

Click here to start planning your dream vacation.

Photo courtesy of Gate 1 Travel

And for our travel advisor partners, there are special bonus commission opportunities and savings for you this month as well. For more, visit www.ustoa.com/travel-together-month-agents to see all the travel advisor offers.

Note: offers can be booked September 1-30, 2018. All travel deals, restrictions and booking instructions can be found at www.ustoa.com/travel-together-month.

For further inspirations or to search for dream travel itineraries and destinations, visit www.ustoa.com/dream.

Travels to the Far North

August 28, 2018 Canada

By John Newton, AFAR Ambassador

In March 2016 I traveled to the north of Canada—Manitoba, and specifically the town of Churchill, on the edges of Hudson Bay. The trip was centered around a dinner at a fort once used by the Hudson Bay Company where the meal would, according to the plan, conclude with the luminous display of the northern lights.

Celestial phenomena don’t follow schedules set by human, and that night the famous lights did not dance across the skies. Still, Manitoba—like the meal itself—was dazzling in other ways. Having seen where the tree line ends and experienced the vast and open spaces of northern Canada and staring across frozen Hudson Bay, I wanted to see more. So when I was offered the opportunity to join Quark Expeditions on a trip to the Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge on Somerset Island in Nunavut, I jumped at it. If Churchill felt like the end of the world, I wanted to see what sat some 1,000 miles to the north, beyond the Arctic Circle.

Even just reaching the start of the trip required three flights: From New York to Calgary to Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. I had a day to explore Yellowknife, dining on pan-fried trout for lunch at Bullocks’ Bistro and visiting the excellent (and free) Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre. That night our group from Quark gathered at our hotel to be fitted out with muck boots and parkas, and then the following morning we departed on the final leg of our journey aboard an ATR, bound for Somerset Island.

Our goal was the Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge, perhaps more accurately a camp as all the accommodations are in tents, run by Richard Weber, who has made several trips to the North Pole; his wife, Josée Auclair, a fellow polar explorer, and their two sons.

The enormous island is roughly the size of Vermont, yet it is uninhabited except for the employees and guests of the lodge which operates only in the summer. One plane arrives each week, bringing in a new group of travelers with Quark (ours included 23 people), and then picking up the previous group and returning them to Yellowknife. The flight also carries in all of the camp’s supplies, while flying out its trash.

Simply getting to the lodge from the gravel landing strip was an adventure. We rafted across a small stream and then walked with the camp’s polar bear guard dog, Fury, leading the way. The guest rooms are two rows of tents, heated and with electricity, on a bluff overlooking Cunningham Inlet. Tents where meals are served and another that is sort of a great hall— complete with couches and blankets, board games, and books on Arctic history—round out the camp.

We didn’t spend much time there, however, at least during the day. At 8 a.m. we would assemble as several of the camp’s guides presented several activities—hiking, kayaking, ATV trips. After breakfast, we’d depart on our excursions. (An aside about the breakfast, and all the meals: I would have been content, and was expecting, freeze-dried eggs and when I bit into the melon they served at breakfast, I expected a hearty, and disappointing, crunch. Instead it was perfectly ripe, while lunches included thermoses of homemade soup, freshly baked rolls, and artisanal dried meats. Every dietary requirement was accommodated. You may be on the edge of the world, but you aren’t roughing it at Arctic Watch).

I mostly wanted to see the landscape and know what the world looked like at 74° North, some 500 miles north of the Arctic Circle. The list of things I wanted to see or experience at the lodge was relatively short: the midnight sun, belugas, polar bears, and musk oxen. If I was able to spot an arctic hare or fox, I’d consider those bonuses.

The midnight sun was, of course, the easiest to check off the list. While I was at the camp in mid-July, the sun came closest to the horizon at 1:16 a.m. but still remained significantly above the sea. Eye masks were provided in each tent, though after a day hiking and a satisfying dinner, I never found it hard to sleep even with the sun shining.

The belugas were also relatively easy to spot. The ice had begun to break up on the Cunningham Inlet, where some 2,000 or so beluga gather each summer, drawn to the relatively warm waters where the Cunningham River meets the sea. Sitting on the shoreline and hearing their chirps and kayaking among them were experiences that justified the journey alone.

Getting close to polar bears and musk oxen was more challenging then I understood before the trip, but on the first day our guide taught us how to crouch and move as a compact group towards a polar bear, approaching it from upwind. We were within 100 meters before he stood, took a look at us, rolled on his back like a dog looking for a belly rub, and then wandered off. The musk oxen were more skittish, but an ATV expedition on another day brought us within a few hundred meters of these majestic Arctic animals with their dreadlock-like coats.

On our final day, while I was waiting for the rest of our group before heading out on a kayak trip, a hare suddenly appeared out of nowhere, roughly five meters away. We exchanged looks, before one of the camp’s dog spotted him as well and they both bolted off (the hare won this race). It felt like a fitting conclusion—I’d seen more than I had hoped for and could begin the journey home.

Interested in learning more about John’s journey? Read more about it on AFAR.com, and check out Quark Expeditions Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge itinerary.

Finding Home While Cruising the Seine

August 13, 2018 France

By Ben Schuyler, AFAR Ambassador

Can I be honest? In my early years of travel photography I didn’t have much interest in visiting Europe. I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, where nature was a stone’s throw in any direction. That accessibility made it the topic of much of my early work. Growing up my family’s version of a summer vacation growing up was hopping into our minivan, driving mostly forgotten highways, eating at roadside diners, and stopping to read every historical placard we could. The places to be explored in my very own part of the country felt endless. Why would I need to spend all kinds of money getting to a place full of people, buildings, and (what I thought was) very little nature. How wrong I was.

My wife and I are newly married, having tied the knot in early June, and we struggled to peg down a honeymoon destination. There was a list of criteria that needed to bet met before we’d settle on a location: it couldn’t be overly touristy, it MUST have great food, and it should be easy to navigate. A large cruise would never be something that either of us would ever suggest, but our interest was piqued when an opportunity to travel the Seine from Paris to the mouth of the river for a week with boutique river cruise line U By Uniworld came up. Each ship had a maximum capacity of 120 guests and focused on “iconic sites, hidden gems and authentic adventures.”

Having never traveled along the Seine and only once passing through France on a rushed and unorganized work trip a few months before, I came into this region green. However, where I’d once feel concerned about going to a foreign destination with very little planning done, I found relief in the loosely structured itinerary our “U Hosts” provided. During any given day, opportunities to explore a small town or neighborhood on your own or with a small group during an excursion were plentiful.

Paris was a combination of so many of the things that get my gears going while traveling and shooting. Much like the ever-changing landscape from one natural environment to another that I’d grown up capturing, the diverse variety of architectures and art was eye candy for this photographer. History breathes out of every corner. The smell of fresh pastries and pungent Camembert poured from quant shops on Montmarte. World class galleries lined the streets of Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Modest cafes serve delicious chilled wine in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The magical and allure of the city was no falsified story.

Our journey from Paris took us through the Normandy region of France, all the way to the brackish waters of the Seine and English Channel. Each town along the way offered its share of charm and history. Rouen gave us our most delicious meal, perfectly prepared Ossobucco from La Couronne. Giverny took us back in time to the days of Claude Monet as we bicycled its narrow streets. The Cliffs of Étretat rivaled the most beautiful shorelines I’ve ever seen. There was something to appease every travel desire I possess.

As we shared with friends about our adventure, there’s no doubt that there’s more to be seen and explored in each town we stopped in. Of course, we didn’t see everything we’d like to in Paris. However, traveling the Seine by river cruise was undoubtedly the best way to see the amount of France we did in the time we had.

Interested in learning more about Ben’s journey? Read more about it on AFAR.com, the USTOA blog, and check out U by Uniworld’s The Seine Experience.

A Pacific Northwest native, Ben has spent his life drinking coffee, hiking the Cascade Mountains, and breathing the salty air of the Puget Sound. Ben’s inspiration includes dirt roads, flora, and fauna, and his photographs capture a sense of adventure in warm colors that produce an ambient nostalgia. He recently traveled America to document mobile living: When the Road Is Home.

Ideal Island Paradise

August 6, 2018 Philippines

With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines has become a bucket list tropical destination in 2018. The Southeast Asian country boasts more than 22,000 miles of coastline with pristine beaches, cosmopolitan cities, rich history, and welcoming locals ready to share Filipino culture with visitors.

Credit: Asia Answers

Here is a sample of USTOA member itineraries to inspire a hassle-free vacation to the Philippines with exclusive local access. For more USTOA member packaged travel to the Philippines, visit: https://ustoa.com/why-we-travel/philippines.

SITA World Tours’ “Manila & Boracay Sojourn” itinerary mixes the history and modern energy of Manila with one of the world’s most beautiful beaches on Boracay Island. During the six-day tour, guests will enjoy a half-day tour of Old Manila before traveling to the paradise of Boracay. Whether it’s a massage or yoga lesson on the beach or a boat ride through the crystal-clear waters, Boracay is the ideal place to disconnect and enjoy the untouched beaches. Available throughout 2018 from $695 per person. www.sitatours.com

Intrepid Travel’s “Philippines Palawan Island Getaway” is a nine-day adventure of island hopping and snorkeling among the coral and tropical fish. Guests will interact with the Batak tribe in their village to witness their daily life with a local guide. The package includes two nights on a private beach, sleeping in beach cottages, and will enjoy local cuisine at Kainato, a local restaurant which supports the community and employs people with disabilities. Departures available bi-weekly from December to May in 2018 and 2019 from $1,630 per person. www.intredpidtravel.com

Credit: Avanti Destinations

New for 2018, Avanti Destinations’ “Philippines Escapes” itinerary is an eight-day vacation to some of the island’s most alluring beaches. With year-round accessibility, the islands feature stunning tropical waters, otherworldly rock formations and coves. The trip includes four nights at the Miniloc Resort located in the remote Bacuit archipelago. In addition to snorkeling and other water activities, guests can participate in a private tour with tribal foot massage and choice of massage treatment at the Nurture Spa Village in Tagatay, and all meals at the Miniloc Resort. Prices from $2,475 per person, double occupancy (land only). www.avantidestinations.com

Goway Travel’s “Palawan El Nido” four-day itinerary to the Philippines provides the flexibility of an individual worry-free vacation with a tour operator. Travelers will spend the trip relaxing in El Nido, an almost untouched site with white sand beaches, clear waters, and stunning cliffs. Considered “The Philippines’ Last Frontier,” the waters are full of marine life and dive sites for adventurous travelers to experience. Available through October 2018 from $961 per person. www.goway.com

Credit: Asia Answers

Discover a diverse vacation of the Philippines’ city life and spectacular beaches during Asia Answers’ “A Perfect Week in the Philippines” itinerary. The first part of the week includes a tour of Old Manila rich in history and mixed with contemporary skyscrapers or an optional day trip to Pagsanjan Falls. End the trip at one of the world’s most serene beaches with two days of leisure time in Boracay. Departures are available daily from $1,449 per person. www.asiaanswers.com

Find your dream island vacation to the Philippines here.

Paris and the Seine River: An Unmatched Romance Uncovered

August 6, 2018 France

By Ben Schuyler, AFAR Ambassador

There’s no doubt about it—something really is so romantic about being in Paris. It’s the “city of love” after all, but I’m not talking so much about affectionate romance. I’m talking about the city’s ability to take you to a different reality, to transport you to a different time. As a travel photographer, I find myself experiencing the “losing of oneself” to a place fairly often, but my experience in Paris and the surrounding villages along the Seine River were in a league all their own.

My wife and I chose Paris as our honeymoon destination, as so many other newly married couples do. We had originally entertained the thought of venturing to a tropical beach for a week doing nothing but drinking Pina Coladas to excess and eating endless amounts of fish tacos, but ultimately chose to seize the opportunity of travelling the Seine with U by Uniworld—a boutique cruise line geared towards the “young at heart” – after reading more about their trips. Our time to travel was limited and we wanted to cover as much ground as possible since neither of us had ever been to this area of France. I’ll be honest that taking a cruise wouldn’t usually be of interest to me, but the ability to see so many places without being surround by huge amounts of fellow travelers hooked us.

We embarked on our journey with a small list of recommendations from friends who had been before. Aside from those select places our schedule was at the mercy of our “U-Hosts”, incredible culture guides from the cruise that led our excursions or connected us to an incredible cast of experts on different significant topic. From a list of over a dozen “U-Time” options, we chose a handful of activities that related to our interests in food, art, and the outdoors.

On the top of my personal list of places I’d long wanted to visit were the cliffs of Etretat—beautiful limestone cliffs towering over the shore of the English Channel. These stone monoliths have been topics of lore from Viking ages to the modern times. Standing on the edge of the shore felt like staring off at the end of the world. Monet had painted these cliffs on numerous occasions, attempting to freeze these scenes in time. My wife and I walked along the sun-bleached stones, picking up a few to bring home as earthen souvenirs.

While traveling to the coast, we weaved through the Normandy region—an area known for its biological diversity and rich farming conditions. Manoir D’Apreval—an organic apple orchard specializing in producing organic cider, Pommeau, and apple brandy. Each sip was a refreshing taste of the history of this land.

Rouen shone as one of the gems on the Seine. Each corner revealed layer after layer of history and beauty. Gros-Horloge, one of the oldest astronomical clocks in France, sits in the middle of the old city and has been running since the middle ages. The Rouen Cathedral features a nightly light show at 10pm telling the story of the new creation and Viking invasion of France. Julia Childs once called her dining experience at famous French cuisine restaurant La Couronne “the most exciting meal of my life,” which we affirmed with our meal of gazpacho and veal.

The romance of the Seine is undeniable and endless and best experienced with open hands. Find the few things you HAVE to see, and with the rest just let their ancient stories draw you in.

Interested in learning more about Ben’s journey? Read more about it on AFAR.com and check out U by Uniworld’s The Seine Experience.

Bucket List Travel: Party of One

July 31, 2018 Travel

Credit: Contiki

Thinking about taking a solo vacation? You’re not “alone.” Roughly half of United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) tour operator members have reported growth in solo travelers last year and many have created new opportunities for those going it alone to visit their dream destinations. With waived or discounted single supplement fees, new itineraries tailored to single travelers, and new ways to connect guests before and during the trip, off the beaten path experiences no longer only come in pairs.

The following are just a few of ways USTOA members are encouraging solo travelers to see the world.

Credit: Intrepid Travel

Specifically designed for solo travelers, Intrepid Travel’s “Best Morocco – For Solo Travelers” itinerary brings together an intimate group of 12 guests and a local Moroccan guide. The group will trek the High Atlas Mountains and stay in a traditional Berber village where they will learn about the indigenous population. Other trip highlights include fortune telling in Marrakech’s lively medina, chatting with medicine men in Jemaa el-Fna square, and more. Available on select departure dates through November 2018 from $1,175 per person. www.intrepidtravel.com

Alexander+Roberts has waived the single supplement fees on all nine departures of its “Colombia Emerging” trip. On this private journey with no more than 16 guests, travelers are lead through the vibrant country to spend time with flower farmers outside Medellin and join Bogotá residents in some of their traditional pastime. The trip also features a guided walk to discover Medellin’s vibrant street art, and a full day to explore UNESCO World Heritage Site Cartagena. Available on select departure dates through April 2019 from $3,699 per person for single or double occupancy. www.alexanderroberts.com

Credit:: Contiki

Make friends with your fellow passengers as you travel through 10 European countries during Contiki’s 13-day “European Discovery” itinerary. Solo guests can share a bottle of champagne under the Eiffel Tower or bike through Munich with other guests helping to form lifelong bonds. Guests also will discover the canals of Amsterdam and Venice; visit Vatican City and explore the ancient streets of Rome; and enjoy two days in the city of lights, among other exciting activities and destinations. Available for select departures through fall 2018 and throughout 2019 from $2,376 per person with savings. www.contiki.com

Credit: Contiki

Black sand beaches, snorkeling with Galápagos penguins, and an experienced expedition team create an unforgettable and educational experience for solo travelers on Lindblad Expeditions’ itineraries to the Galápagos. Lindblad Expeditions is waiving solo traveler premiums on solo cabins select 2018 National Geographic Islander and National Geographic Endeavour II voyages. New ships also feature an increased number of solo cabins. Solo travelers will pay double occupancy rates for solo occupancy in designated cabins/categories. Valid for new bookings only and subject to availability with weekly departures year-round from $10,130 solo occupancy. www.expeditions.com

Tabletop Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, and more must-experience adventures bring solo travelers to the southern tip of Africa for Abercrombie & Kent’s “South Africa & Victoria Falls” itinerary. The nine-day trip also features a visit to the thundering Victoria Falls and an on-safari Chef’s Table experience where travelers will cook traditional fare side-by-side with a chef. Solo guests save 50% on single supplement fees on select departures including July 19, 2018, August 9 and 13, 2018, and September 8, 2018 from $7,795 per person. www.abercrombiekent.com

Credit: Trafalgar

Trafalgar has waived the single supplement fee on the August 20 and October 8, 2018 departures of its “Best of Greece” itinerary. Guests will traverse the mountains of Arcadia to ancient Olympia, dine with a local Greek family, enjoy a night of traditional food and dancing with local residents, and more during this eight-day trip. Solo travelers also will visit iconic sites like the Temple of Apollo, the Acropolis and Parthenon with a local specialist. Trip is available from $2,050 per person. www.trafalgar.com

Tauck is offering single travelers special savings in 2018 with waived single supplement fees on select river cruises and reduced fees on other departures worldwide. Waived single supplement fees on all Category 1 European riverboat cabins makes it easier than ever for solo travelers to enjoy an upscale European cruise. Tauck has trimmed the single supplement by up to $400 on 68 departures of 23 different land itineraries. In North America, Tauck has taken up to $300 off the single supplement on 61 departures of 21 tours, and within its “Exotics” portfolio, has reduced the supplement by up to $600 on 26 departures of nine trips in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East. For more information visit www.tauck.com

Credit: SITA

SITA World Tours’ “Masai Footsteps” itinerary brings groups and solo travelers on a game drive through the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. The exciting seven-day trip includes a visit to Lake Nakuru to see its flamingo-lined shores and a drive to see Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli National Park. Guests also may encounter elephants, lions, buffalo, cheetahs, giraffes, etc. Available on Tuesday and Thursday departures April 9 through June 18, 2019 from $2,650 per person double or single occupancy. www.sitatours.com

Credit: SITA

Travel to the southern part of Africa for an unforgettable safari during Country Walkers’ “Botswana and Zambia Safari: Victoria Falls to the Okavango Delta” itinerary. During the 11-day tour, guests will witness the river rituals of hippos along the Zambezi River and walk through forest along the roaring Victoria Falls. Guests will end each day at intimate, award-winning lodges and bush camps. Discover Africa on foot from $7,398 per person, double occupancy (including airfare). Departure dates available October 30-November 9, 2019 and November 7-November 17, 2019. www.countrywalkers.com

CIE Tours International encourages solo travelers on “The Irish Pub Tour” itinerary to explore the cozy pubs and meet the local people throughout Ireland. The trip includes boozy stops at the Guinness Storehouse, Teeling Distillery, and South Pole Inn for a real Irish coffee. Guests on this eight-day tour also will enjoy dinner and music at Kate Kearney’s Cottage, story-telling at Dublin’s oldest pub, and stays in the towns of Kilkenny, Killarney and Westport. Available on select departures throughout 2018 from $1,520 per person (land only). www.cietours.com

Whether you’re going it alone, or traveling with friends and family, click here to search member itineraries to destinations around the world.

Eight Reasons to River Cruise in Bordeaux

July 17, 2018 Travel

The Bordeaux region in France brings to mind visions of winding country sides…and of course robust red wines. While known for its vineyards, the region in southwest France also offers picturesque towns, beautiful coastlines, and impressive architectural gems. Need more inspiration? Here are eight reasons to visit the famous French region:

Pack and Unpack Only Once: Unlike a land tour, a river cruise will take you from town to town throughout the Bordeaux and Medoc regions on a river boat, with a new port and a new adventure each day. You’ll relax while the river sweeps you to your next destination.
La Cité du Vin: Opened in May 2016 in Bordeaux, this modern building – reminiscent of a lighthouse on the banks of the Garonne – is a unique invitation to travel to the heart of wine country and the traditions that it holds. As you enter the Cité du Vin you will enjoy a self-guided tour punctuated by 20 themed spaces explaining the culture of wine in an immersive, sensorial setting. The grand finale of your visit will bring you to the upper level for a gorgeous 360° view of Bordeaux and a complimentary glass of wine.
Experience Joie de Vivre on the Sun Deck: The confluence of the Dordogne and Garonne Rivers into the Gironde Estuary create beautiful landscapes of picturesque villages, sweeping vineyards, and striking coastlines. Enjoy the sights while sipping Champagne from the sundeck.
Grands Crus of the Medoc: A trip to Bordeaux is not complete without a visit to some of the famous wineries that call this region home. Sample wines from the finest terroir on earth and learn how these world-famous wines are made – from grapes to glass.
Breathtaking Views at the Arcachon Bay: From atop the great Dune of Pilat, in the Arcachon Bay area, there’s a sweeping view across the bay to the north, the Atlantic to the west, and the Medoc to the southeast. If oysters are your thing, you’ll enjoy a tasting at a local restaurant before returning to the ship.
Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Saint Emilion’s Underground: The name Saint Emilion goes hand and hand with Merlot grapes and world-class wines, but this medieval village has so more to offer. Step inside the biggest monolithic church in Europe – right from the town square, a single piece of limestone was carved into a massive church. You can explore the cavernous space, the hallways below ground, or take a trip to the bell tower.
Hiking in the Hillsides of Cadillac: From the riverside town of Cadillac, France, take a tour on foot to the surrounding hillsides as buildings give way to fields and vast vineyards. After walking, you’ll stop at a family farm to try some local favorites and, of course, a glass of wine.
Enjoy a French Meal: A typical CroisiEurope meal is a typical French meal: Refined cuisine, convivial atmosphere, and exciting desserts. Even lunches on board are special – a break from the days’ activity and exploration for multi-course dining. Reminisce about the morning’s excursions over some local cheese, enjoy some ratatouille, and compare the bouquet of unlimited French wines paired with each meal.

Established in 1976, CroisiEurope has been a leader in offering the best value in all-inclusive river cruising for the last 41 years. Based in Strasbourg, France, CroisiEurope is headquartered at the epicenter of Europe with offices in Brussels, Paris, Lyon, Nice, Lausanne, Madrid, London, Phnom Penh and New York. This family-owned company operates 50 ships and a diverse selection of canal, river and ocean cruise sailings that navigate the most famous waterways in Europe, Asia, Russia, South America and now South Africa. Choose from a variety of itineraries from 4 to 26 days and explore picturesque riverside cities & towns in France, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Italy & Spain. Or visit the international destinations along the Mediterranean coast, Vietnam, Cambodia or South Africa.

www.CroisiEuropeRiverCruises.com

Journey to Japan

July 9, 2018 Japan

Japan was named one of the top five “hot” destinations for 2018 in the USTOA’s annual survey of travel forecasts and trends, and for good reason: It’s captivating contrast of timeless traditions and modern life, along with its diverse natural landscapes, accommodates every type of travel interest. Whether it’s hiking along trails to hidden temples or indulging in authentic local dishes, Japan’s wide range of experiences will have even the most jaded travelers intrigued.

The tour operator members of USTOA offer a wide range of packaged travel options to Japan – from adventure and family to spiritual and culinary programs – that provide insights and access unavailable to the average travelers. Here is just a sample:

For the Adventurer:

Credit: Contiki

Japan is home to the world-class winter sports paradise of Hakuba. With Contiki’s new “Japan Winter Wonder Plus Six-Day Ski” itinerary travelers can visit Japan’s iconic sites and cities then hit the slopes in the Hakuba Valley. During this unescorted six-day add-on, guests can ski, snowboard, or even mountain glide before relaxing in a steamy onsen. Available on select departure dates through April 2019 from $3,815 per person. www.contiki.com

Credit: Country Walkers

Hike through the whispering cypress forests of the Kii Peninsula, wander through Kumano Kodo – a UNESCO World Heritage site, and meet a yamabushi priest to learn the tenets of martial-arts training on Country Walkers’ eight-day “Japan: Kyoto, Nara and Kumano Kodo” tour. Guests will journey from two to six miles daily through the traditional neighborhoods of Kyoto. Available on select departure dates through September 2019 starting at $6,998 per person/double occupancy. www.countrywalkers.com

Intrepid Travel’s new 14-day “Cycle Japan” adventure takes a new spin on traditional walking tours. Cycle between six to fifty miles each day from Osaka to Tokyo, and discover Noto Peninsula’s coastlines, rice paddles, and endless farmland. Visit iconic sites, such as the Nagarebashi Bridge, a 356 metre wooden bridge and one of the longest wooden bridges in Japan. Available on select departure dates from July 2018 to November 2019 starting at $4,857 per person. www.intrepidtravel.com

Credit: Adventures by Disney

Discover the ancient sport of sumo wrestling, bike through the farms and rice fields of Japan’s countryside, and traverse the rapids of Hozugawa River on a two-hour river boat ride on Adventures by Disney’s new “Journey to The Land of the Rising Sun” 11-day itinerary. Families will have the option to enhance their adventure and add a post-trip vacation package that provides a stay, special experiences, and access at Tokyo Disney Resort. Available on select departure dates through October 2019 from $10,699 per adult and $10,159 per child. www.adventuresbydisney.com

For the Culturally Curious:

Abercrombie & Kent’s “Classic Japan” trip is available on select departure dates through October 2018, and lets guests be among the few to stay at Gôra Kadan, one of Japan’s most exclusive traditional inns, enjoy an exclusive kaiseki banquet with entertainment by a geisha, as well as learn about the country’s past and present at the Samurai Museum in Tokyo. Pricing from $10,495 per person. www.abercrombiekent.com

Credit: Collette

From stenciling and gold leaf classes, to a traditional kaiseki dinner with a geisha show in Kyoto, Collette’s new “Cultural Treasures of Japan” trip immerses travelers in Japanese culture and everyday life. The 14-day journey also includes a trip along the Hakone Ropeway for goliath views of Mt. Fuji, a visit to Miyajima, “Shrine Island” and the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and many more culturally significant stops. Available on select departure dates through April 2019 from $4,499 per person. www.gocollette.com

Goway Travel’s “Explore Japan,” an intimate small-group guided tour, covers four distinct regions over twelve days. Explore extensively on foot and discover stunning sites like the Ryoanji Zen garden, Himeji Castle, and Miyajima Island. Available throughout 2018 and 2019 from $5,395 per person. www.goway.com

Credit: go-today

Explore serene beauty in the ancient city of Kyoto and delve into the bustling capital city of Tokyo on go-today’s “Tokyo & Kyoto” itinerary. Discover modern architecture, historic monuments, antique markets, and Buddhism folk art during this six-day trip. Available on select departure dates through September 2018 and December 2018 starting at $1,649 per person/ double occupancy. www.go-today.com

Affordable World’s eight-day “Japan Discovery” tour begins in the city of Tokyo to visit legendary sites, such as Asakusa, the Senso-Ji Temple, Mount Fuji, Nijo Castle, Tsukiji Market, and Todaji Temple. Available on select departure dates through April 2019 from $1,599 per person/ double occupancy. www.affordableworld.com

Credit: Insider Journeys

Insider Journeys’ “Secrets of Japan” trip is available on select departures through December 2019, and lets guest stay at a traditional inn near Mt Fuji at Hakone, and then journey the Old Town of Takayama, and discover Geisha culture in Kanazawa and Kyoto. Pricing from $7,245 per person. www.insider-journeys.com

Credit: Insider Journeys

Travel in luxurious comfort on Luxury Gold’s new “Majestic Japan” 11-day itinerary. Enjoy a private cruise along the Matsushima Bay, spend an evening of leisure with an in-house massage, and witness a private musical performance of traditional Japanese guitar and drumming. Destinations covered include Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Hachinohe, Oirase Gorge, Sendai, and Katsurashima Island. Departures are available from July to November 2018, starting at $8,050 per person. www.luxurygoldvacations.com

For the Nature Lover:

Credit: Collette

Springtime beauty blends with ancient history and cutting-edge culture on EF Go Ahead Tours’ “Cherry Blossoms in Japan: Tokyo to Kyoto” itinerary. Wander through the shrine’s Inner Garden, home to irises that bloom in springtime, and take-in surreal views of Mount Fuji and the cherry blossoms that gather throughout Tokyo. This 10-day journey is available on March 22, 2019 starting at $3,829 per person. www.goaheadtours.com

Alexander + Roberts’ “From Japan’s Inland Sea to the Alps” itinerary explores the country’s many natural wonders. Explorers will journey across the island-dotted Seto Inland Sea to Miyajima Island, learn about the ancient tenets of Japanese landscape at Kenrokuen, and travel to the rural mountain hamlet of Shirakawago – one of Japan’s most scenic and historic alpine regions. Departure dates are available on select dates through April 2020 from from $7,599 per person/ double occupancy. www.alexanderroberts.com

Credit: go-today

Join SITA World Tours’ “Cherry Blossom Tour” to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Japan. The nine-day trip includes a visit to the Golden Pavilion, the colorful Kasuga Shrine, and include live demonstrations on the basics of how to wear a kimono. Travelers will also embark on a private Cherry Blossom viewing tour to Kiyomizu Temple and Maruyama Park, regarded as famous locations for viewing Cherry Blossoms in full bloom. Departures are available on March 25 to April 15, 2019 from $4,675 per person/ double occupancy. www.sitatours.com

Ritz Tours’ is offering travelers $75 off its “Jewels of Japan” itinerary in time to enjoy autumn in the East. The eight-night trip crosses the countryside on a bullet train past Mt. Fuji, which is surrounded by red, orange and yellow fall foliage. Travelers also will walk through Kyoto, home to eight UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples. Departures are available on September 6, October 18, November 8 and 29, 2018 from $2,825 per person. Use code USTOARAJ to save $75. www.ritztours.com

For the Epicurean:

Credit: Tauck

On Tauck’s “Essence of Japan” itinerary travelers will taste and sip their way through Japan. The 13-day trip includes a visit to a sake distillery, a private tea ceremony, and hands-on sushi and miso demonstrations. The trip also will give guests the chance to visit the Tsukiji market in Tokyo, regarded as the oldest and largest fish market in the world. Departures are available from August to November 2018 from $10,290 per person. www.tauck.com

Pack your chopsticks! Avanti Destinations’ new “Taste of Japan” nine-day food tour will tantalize taste buds. The trip includes a visit to the underground foodie treasure trove that is depachika (food hall), a hands-on sushi making class at a local home, and private afternoon tea with a geisha. Eat fresh-off-the-boat, and add on a visit to the infamous Tsukiji Fish Market. The add-on is available for $349 per person. The tour is available year-round and starts at $4,749 per person/double occupancy (land-only). www.avantidestinations.com

Credit: Zegrahm Expeditions

Travel with an appetite on Zegrahm Expeditions’ “Imperial Japan” 12-day adventure. Visit the bustling Miyagawa Morning Market, delight in an egg boiled in the volcanic hot springs, and a walk through 200 stalls bursting with fresh produce and seafood in the nearly 300-year-old Omicho Market. This trip also includes a flexible travel dining plan that allows guests to dine with no limits on the price of a meal or dining locations. Available on select departures in April, May, and October 2019 starting at $13,490 per person/ double occupancy. www.zegrahm.com

Credit: Pleasant Holidays/ Journese

Join Journese’s “A Taste of Japan” itinerary to experience distinctive delicacies and exceptional dining experiences throughout Tokyo and Kyoto. Excursions The nine-day itinerary includes a private dining Japanese course-style dinner at Teppan Mizuki restaurant, a traditional Buddhist vegetarian lunch on the Tenryuji Temple’s grounds, and a sampling of traditional flavors from the ancient Edo period, such as charcoal broiled eel. Departures are available on various dates throughout 2018 and 2019. Visit www.journese.com for pricing information.

For the Spiritual:

Credit: Trafalgar

On Trafalgar’s “Spiritual Japan” tour, guests can retrace the steps of the ancients with some of Japan’s most sacred places. The trip features visits to the Nachi Taisha Shrine, the Seiganotoji Temple and the tallest waterfall in Japan, Nachi waterfall. Guests can also visit the birthplace of Shingon Buddism and delight in vegetarian dishes served by local monks at their monastery lodgings. This nine-day spiritual journey is available from $4,550 per person in October 2018. www.trafalgar.com

Find more trips to Japan using USTOA’s “Find Your Dream Vacation” section at https://ustoa.com/dream-vacation/.

Editor’s Note: Information was correct at time of writing. All tours/packages subject to availability. Prices may vary from time of writing, based on currency fluctuations.

Hike, Cruise, and Drive Through Fall Foliage Around the World

June 21, 2018 Travel

Are you a “leaf peeper?” Who isn’t when faced with the vibrant shades of autumn. And, while New England is first to come to mind for the vivid colors of native maple, oak, dogwood and other trees, USTOA members offer travelers a chance to “branch” out to new leaf peeping locations around the world. From Japan to the Canadian Maritimes, below are just a few itineraries to help you celebrate the changing of the seasons.

Japan

The wonders of Japan are set against the colorful backdrop of fall during Ritz Tours’ “Jewels of Japan” itinerary. The eight-night journey includes trips to the Imperial Palace, Mt. Fuji, the Todadaji Temple and much more. Guests also will wet their appetites with a visit to the Kuromon Ichiba Market, a Kaseiki dinner, as well as a Kobe beef dinner. The bullet train ride to Kyoto also provides travelers with the ultimate leaf peeping experience as they pass through Japan’s red, orange, and yellow countryside. Available on select dates in October and November 2018 from $2,900 per person land only. www.ritztours.com

Credit: Ritz Tours

Japan’s cities, mountains, and gardens are in full fall splendor during Alexander+Roberts’ “From Japan’s Inland Seas to Alps” itinerary. The 11-day trip takes an intimate group on a journey to see what the Japanese call “Momiji” or autumn foliage throughout the country. Travelers also will meet locals anxious to share their lives and traditions. Available for departures on October 4 and 28, 2018 from $7,399 per person, double occupancy. Guests can save $300 when paying in-full at time of booking. www.alexanderroberts.com

Canada

EF Go Ahead Tours’ “Fall Foliage Tour: The Canadian Maritimes” trip visits Canada’s eastern provinces’ rural scenery and rugged coastal landscapes with visits to Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the Cabot Trail, New Brunswick’s the Bay of Fundy, Prince Edward Island’s Anne of Green Gables Museum and more. Maritime leaf peepers also will learn how maple sugar is processed during a visit to a local sugar shack. Available in October 2018, and September through October 2019 from $2,399 per person. www.goaheadtours.com

Glide through the waters of Canada and New England for a spectacular views of autumn leaves on Holland America Line’s “Colors of Canada and New England” itinerary. During the 10-day trip guests can relax and sip a kir royale on their suite’s private verandah, watch for whales from the deck, hike among 200-year-old stands of jewel-hued birches and maples, and more. Available on September 23, 2018 from $1,629 per person not including port fees and taxes. www.hollandamerica.com

Europe

Credit: AmaWaterways

Wine and autumn leaves mix for an unforgettable river cruise experience during AmaWaterways’ wine cruises in Europe. With multiple departure dates in November 2018, guests can save $750 per person on a number of itineraries on the Danube and Rhine rivers. Travelers will enjoy the fruits of vintners’ labor from renowned wine regions like Austria’s Wachau Valley and France’s celebrated Bordeaux region. Call 1-800-626-0126 or visit www.amawaterways.com for more information on applicable departures.

Credit: AmaWaterways

Midwest

The Great Lakes also get all dressed up for fall during Premier World Discovery’s “Fall Colors & Lighthouses of the Great Lakes” itinerary. The nine-day mid-west tour features a Wisconsin Dells Boat Cruise to see the leaves from the water, and a trip to Door County on the western side of Lake Michigan with more than 250 miles of painted shoreline. Guests also will get to tour Chicago, the Old Mackinac Lighthouse, Lambeau Field, and more. Available departures include September 20 and 27, 2018 from $2,295 per person based on double occupancy. www.premierworlddiscovery.com

Credit: Premier World Discovery

New England

Globus’ nine-day, “Classic Fall Foliage” itinerary takes leaf peepers on a tour of New England with stops like the top of Cadillac Mountain in Bar Harbor, ME, Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, MA, and a sightseeing tour of Boston, MA with a local tour guide. Guests also will visit Maine’s Acadia National Park, one of America’s most-visited national parks, for a carriage ride through the foliage before enjoying a local treat at the historic Jordan Pond Restaurant located inside the park. Available in September and October 2018 from $2,529 (includes a special promo of $300 off per couple). www.globusjourneys.com

Credit: YMT Vacations

From the battlefields of Gettysburg to a sightseeing cruise through the Franconia Notch State Park, YMT Vacations’ “Autumn Leaves Tour” itinerary takes travelers on a journey to discover America’s history. A drive through Adirondack Park in the White and the Green Mountains, and stops at Lake Placid and the magnificent Flume Gorge in New Hampshire round out this 14-day trip. Available departures throughout September 2018 from $1,499 after a $250 instant rebate per person. www.ymtvacations.com

Credit: Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel’s “Fall Colors of New England USA” is specially designed to showcase the famous leaves with an active immersive trip through the region’s mountains and forests. Travelers’ shoes will walk through the ‘Green Mountain State’ of Vermont, New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest and Boston’s historic Freedom Trail. Available departure dates include September 10 and 24, 2018, and October 8, 2018 from $3,095 per person. www.intrepidtravel.com

Credit: Insight Vacations

Insight Vacations’ “New England’s Fall Foliage” tour takes guests through a four-state leaf-peeping adventure. During the seven-night itinerary, see brilliant colors at North Conway, NH, Quechee Gorge, VT, and more. Guests also will visit the iconic Maine shoreline, and walk to red-brick Freedom Trail in Boston. Available from $2, 795 per person double occupancy with an early payment discount from 5-10% on departures from September 14 to October 16, 2018. www.insightvacations.com

The Northeast’s colors are on full display during Collette’s eight-day “Colors of New England Tour.” With more than 30 available for departures throughout fall 2018, foliage-focused travelers can watch apples being transformed to cider, tour a farm and see how maple sugaring works, cruise Lake Winnipesaukee, and more set against a gorgeous autumn backdrop. This trip through New England is available from $2,699 per person. www.gocollette.com

Discover some of the country’s best foliage on foot during Country Walkers’ six-day “Vermont Fall Foliage” itinerary. This new guided walking tour is an ideal way for leaf peepers to experience New England towns like Norwich, Woodstock, and Stowe set against some of the world’s best foliage. Guests also will visit the Quechee Gorge, a stretch of the Long Trail, and Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, to see an amazing view encompassing three states and Canada. Available for departures on September 23, September 30, October 7, and October 14 from $3,048 per person, double occupancy (tour only). www.countrywalkers.com

Spend nine days immersed in brilliant colors during Gate 1’s “Classic New England Fall Foliage” itinerary. Travelers will spend time in Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine exploring historical and nature sites. Tour guests get the chance to see a working cranberry farm, see Vermont’s deepest gorge for breathtaking fall views, and more. Available for departures from September through October 2018 from $1,749 per person. www.gate1travel.com

Credit: Tauck

Join Tauck’s “Grand New England” itinerary to enjoy the Berkshires of western Massachusetts, the Green Mountains of Vermont, the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the rocky coast of Maine all dressed in fall splendor. Travelers also will get the chance to join a hands-on lobstering experience in Maine, enjoy a private lunch at Edith Wharton’s Berkshire Mountains home, The Mount and take a private schooner cruise in Bar Harbor, Maine among other stops. This 12-day tour is available for select departures throughout the fall from $5,290 per person double occupancy, plus airfare. www.tauck.com

Mayflower Cruises & Tours’ “Autumn in New England and Cape Cod” takes travelers on an eight-day trip through some of the most scenic call locals in the Northeast. During the trip, guests will enjoy a traditional lobster bake in Cape Cod, visit Quechee Gorge State Park, Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon,” enjoy a guided tour of the seaport town of Newport, Rhode Island, and more. Available on select departure dates in September and October 2018 from $2,799 per person with $249 round trip airfare from anywhere in the contiguous U.S. www.mayflowercruisesandtours.com

A city tour of Boston, scenic drive along the Mohawk Trail, a stop at Acadia National Park and more await guests on Trafalgar’s “Autumn Colors” itinerary. Travelers will enjoy the picture-perfect maple and cedar forests of New England, the rocky Atlantic headlands of Maine, and the streets of Boston lined with fall foliage. Available from September 20 to October 20, 2018 from $2,550 per person. www.trafalgar.com

Editor’s Note: Information was correct at time of writing. All tours/packages subject to availability. Prices may vary from time of writing, based on currency fluctuations.