Debunking Common Myths about Guided Vacations

November 21, 2022 Travel

Debunking Common Myths about Guided Vacations

By Lisa Sands, Director of Marketing, CIE Tours

As it relates to fast-paced journeys through Europe, you’ve likely heard the phrase “if it’s Tuesday, this must be Belgium!”. A 1969 movie by that name exaggerated the experiences people had in the early days of motorcoach touring; and although the comedy reinforced Americans’ false perceptions of this style of travel in Europe, the movie’s popularity may have been responsible for creating broad awareness that ultimately contributed to the tour industry’s growth.

However, escorted touring is no longer your grandfather’s European vacation experience. Today’s guided vacations can include upscale accommodations such as overnighting in a castle, keeping in touch while on the road onboard a luxury coach, VIP access to exclusive venues, and farm-to-table food experiences. So, what are the elements of traveling by motorcoach that may still be misunderstood? Let’s review the key myths and realities about traveling on a guided vacation.

Myth: I can get the airfare, hotels, transportation and sightseeing cheaper if I do the work myself.

Fact: Tour operators have longstanding relationships in the destinations they serve, and each company bring dozens, if not hundreds, of people to the same hotels and attractions each week. They use their buying power to get bulk rates that are passed on to travelers in the form of a lower package price. Many tour operators take that even further by including extras in the up-front price such as baggage handling, meals, and most importantly, the services of a tour guide. Which brings us to our next myth….

*CIE Tours Family Vacations – Cultural and Food Experiences*
*Photo Courtesy of Tourism Ireland*

Myth: I want to immerse myself in a destination’s history and culture, and there won’t be time for that on a motorcoach tour.

Fact: As the name implies, guided vacations include the services of a professional tour director who is an expert in their destination. Throughout your journey, your guide will share the history, culture and local lore that independent travelers would never discover on their own. A knowledgeable guide will add dimension to your vacation by bringing a local’s perspective on the destination and introducing you to the people that call it home. As an added bonus, you’ll bypass waiting lines at attractions and get to experience places that you wouldn’t even know about if you went on your own. And, that’s where the next myth gets debunked!

CIE Tours – *Foodie Tour of Ireland*
*Photo Courtesy of Tourism Ireland*

Myth: I won’t be able to go off on my own and do anything that the locals might do.

Fact: Guided vacations offer many authentic experiences that would otherwise be missed by independent travelers. These experiences include genuine, immersive opportunities to allow you to truly get to know a place and its people. Together with your group, you might try things like visiting a local home and learning to make scones from a generations-old recipe, visiting the world’s oldest pub and raising a pint with locals, a sheepdog demonstration on a farm, or a private viewing of historic residences and castles. And, there will be many opportunities for independent exploration; your expert guide can point you to a local pub where you can listen to traditional music or a corner café where you can watch people go about their daily routines. Even on the most all-inclusive tours, you’ll have time for discovering new restaurants for lunch or dinner on your own…that is, if you choose to leave behind your new-found friends. More on that….

*Cabra Castle, Country Cavan, Ireland*
*Photo Courtesy of Tracy Biggins*

Myth: I’ll be stuck on a bus with people that I don’t know.

Fact: While you may begin your vacation as strangers, motorcoach touring has the unique advantage of bringing together a small group of people with similar interests (generally no more than 48 people on a coach). With your tour director as the host, you will quickly get to know one another, and for many people, meeting like-minded travelers can be one of the most rewarding aspects of guided vacationing. You can also make your vacation a friends-and-family affair: why not bring your own group along to let them share in the fun? Oh, and by the way, you won’t be traveling on just any “bus”: the luxury motorcoaches in use today are well-equipped with wi-fi, oversized windows, reclining seats and even video screens, in some cases; all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. Which brings us to our final myth.

Myth: The pace will be too fast and I won’t be able to relax.

Fact: Guided vacations mean carefree touring. You and your travel companions can leave the driving to a local professional, you can trust that the hotels on your itinerary will be safe and of good quality, itineraries are mapped out and time-proven to ensure you see all the important sights, and there’s no worrying about logistics like where to park, where to eat or what time the museum opens (or if it’s even open at all on the day you’ll be in town). Your professional driver and expert guide will handle every detail, so all you need to do is enjoy your vacation. While the pace won’t be too fast, it won’t be slow – after all, vacation time is precious and you want to maximize every minute. Expect an active vacation, where good walking shoes are a must for traversing cobblestone streets and paths less traveled.

Guided vacations offer the perfect way to learn, experience and connect with others who share your interest; while maximizing your time and getting the most value – both for your dollar, and for the priceless memories that you’ll make. Your trusted travel advisor can help you find the guided vacation that’s right for your interests and budget.

About the Author:

Lisa Sands, a veteran of the travel industry, has led the strategic marketing and content strategies for some of the country’s leading tour operators, leisure travel agencies and corporate travel management firms throughout her 25 year career. Currently the Director of Marketing for CIE Tours, Lisa’s editorial endeavors have been recognized by the North American Travel Journalists Association and she has received awards from the Walt Disney Company, Universal Orlando, and Royal Caribbean for marketing innovation. Lisa’s favorite travel experiences include immersion in the cuisine and cultures of the world’s most intriguing destinations, with a particular fondness for Ireland and Scotland.

About CIE Tours

Since 1932, CIE Tours has been the premier tour operator for Ireland and Britain vacations, earning a reputation for excellence rooted in its signature Irish hospitality. The 2022 travel season marked 90 years of operation for the Morristown, New Jersey-based company, during which it has taken more than three million travelers on the vacation of their dreams. Expertly crafted vacations to Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Iceland, and Italy suit every travel style and taste – from the camaraderie of coach tours and custom group travel to a variety of independent adventures, small group tours and personalized private driver experiences.

CIE Tours takes care of every detail and provides exclusive access, authentic experiences, and in-depth knowledge of each destination. Only CIE Tours offers the “All-In Inclusive Advantage” which guarantees that every experience and most meals are included, so there are never any hidden expenses. Above all, the genuine warmth and expertise of its guides and hosts shines through, with guest satisfaction ratings of 95%. For more information, visit www.cietours.com.

Windstar Celebrates 35th Anniversary of Polynesian Cruises

November 17, 2022 Travel

Windstar Celebrates 35th Anniversary of Polynesian Cruises

By: Carolyn Spencer Brown

Christopher Prelog has been to French Polynesia many times and one thing stays true for him on every visit. “There is a state of mind about Polynesia that blends natural beauty, a sense of grace and peace and, importantly, the energy of the people.” There’s something else, too: “It’s preserved its authenticity. There are no huge piers and no big shopping malls. And people are just as friendly, warm and welcoming as they were on my first visit 25 years ago.”

Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises, returned to French Polynesia earlier this month to celebrate the cruise company’s 35th anniversary of sailings there. Windstar currently bases Wind Spirit, one of its three sailing vessels, in Tahiti year-round. It was joined by Star Breeze, a yachting-style ship, that is homeporting in Tahiti all through October.

So much of what makes this region, with its 121 islands and atolls, so vast that it represents 75 percent of Australia’s land mass, is its commitment to staying real. He also appreciates the measured changes over the years. The first-ever cruise ship terminal in Papeete is being designed and built. Expected modern conveniences, such as fast Wi-Fi and a sleek international airport, all support travelers, and residents, too. What you won’t find is just as important.

Indeed, the concept of measured change is a critically important to French Polynesia’s President Edouard Fritch. “We are convinced that our ancestors left us with a beautiful legacy, with a mission to enjoy it, grow it, and refrain from damaging it.”

I’d add one more thing. Sharing the special culture with innovative new programs is a huge part of the cruise commitment here on both sides.

It’s More than Marketing Polynesia as Paradise

The key to understanding the world of cruise is to try it. On our 35th anniversary sailing, President Fritch, his family, and key staffers, came aboard for a seven night voyage that called at Bora Bora, Moorea, Raiatea, and Taha’a. He reciprocated the hospitality by hosting all Star Breeze’s passengers at a festive reception at his presidential palace in Papeete. What he experienced, pleased him.

“When we adopted Windstar,” he told us at a press reception, “it was an economic relationship. Over its 35 years in Polynesia, it has developed much further than that.”

Certainly, basing a ship here year-round for 35 years, with Windstar’s Tahiti-based cruising doubling in 2024, when the 312-passenger Star Breeze replaces 148-passenger Wind Spirit, is part of supporting Polynesia’s economy. In addition to spending by travelers, including flights, pre- and post-cruise resort stays, shore excursions and restaurant dining, Fritsch told us, “ships based here also provision locally,” stocking up on everything from fuel to mangos. “That’s why celebrating this 35th anniversary is a big deal because traditionally cruising had been seen as just passing through, just short visits.”

An even bigger deal is sharing the connection of Polynesian people and their cultures with travelers.

Throughout our week, travelers on Wind Spirit and Star Breeze engaged in a great variety of cultural activities, onboard and onshore. At Windstar’s signature Destination Discovery Event, there was an evening beach barbecue, offering moon fish and other local delicacies. The fire dancers were a particular highlight (speaking of authenticity, this can be a risky form of artistry and you couldn’t help but notice that some of the dancers bore scars from their trade).

An all-day beach barbecue on a private Motu Mahaea meant more music, snorkeling and watersports, and freshly grilled burgers and fish. There was also the chance to browse — and buy — local handcrafts, from pearls to honey, from a small market.

Regional music is a huge part of the local culture. Everywhere we went, on a boat taking us snorkeling to a beach day at private motu and even onboard Star Breeze, there was music. We learned how not just to decorate the distinctive pareo — a square piece of hand-died fabric — but also some of the hundreds of ways you can wear it.

Cultural immersion continued. We loved being entertained by a troupe of kids, who came onboard with their parents, too. In Raiatea, Tihoti, a Polynesian elder from a village in Taha’a, escorted guests on a tour of the Faaroa river via an outrigger canoe and then returned to Star Breeze to host an hour of conversation with guests about his life here.

And perhaps the ultimate insiders’ event was the gracious reception at Fritch’s presidential palace, where a bountiful buffet of local cuisine and a pearl-focused fashion show (models, male and female, wore gorgeous black outfits to show off the jewelry, one of Polynesia’s proudest exports), plus tours of the gracious, flower-filled grounds, felt novel.

What will the future look like for French Polynesia’s cruise tourism?

President Fritch gave us a look at what the strategy is for the future, and it’s no surprise to learn that his administration will continue to promote authenticity. “We want to develop quality tourism, not just ‘high end’ tourism,” he told us. “People of the Pacific are aware of the richness of our legacy and heritage.”

One relatively new approach, he says, is to ensure that “the tourism of Polynesia is by Polynesians” by teaching students at both high school and college levels the skills the hospitality skills they need to learn for their own tourism careers here. “Tourism is our first industry. Almost half of all working people here work in tourism, including agriculture, handicraft and culture.”

Indeed, on Star Breeze it was a pleasure to meet Hawaiki, a young woman who’s the first Polynesian to work onboard for Windstar. Previously working in social media on Tahiti, her home island, she’s now a crew member in the guest relations office. She took us up to her favorite place onboard, deck 7’s outside deck, because she loves to the see ever-changing view of her islands. She filled us in on her experiences.

What’s really motivated her to embrace a maritime career, in this way, is the chance to broaden her own horizons. “French Polynesia is small, she told us, “and you see the same things every day. The ethnicity of the crew is a huge surprise. It’s cool to live on a ship where people come from all over the world — Indonesia, Philippines, Caribbean, and beyond.”

She laughs when she describes the other big “first” she experienced as a result of working aboard Star Breeze: “I’d never been to Taha’a before, and it’s lovely.”

About Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates a fleet of six boutique all-suite and sailing yachts carrying 148-342 guests. Small ship cruises sail throughout Europe, the Caribbean, Costa Rica and the Panama Canal, Asia, Alaska and British Columbia, Canada and New England, Tahiti and the South Pacific, Mexico and U.S. Coastal and Australia. Windstar launched the $250 Million Star Plus Initiative to transform the three all-suite Star Plus Class yachts with new suites, restaurants, and a world-class spa and fitness center. The award-winning line is known for immersive experiences, destination authenticity, port-intensive itineraries, exceptional service, and an innovative culinary program. Windstar Cruises is part of the Xanterra Travel Collection, a group of global hospitality and travel companies, one of which traces its history back over a hundred years of operating our country’s iconic national parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, Death Valley, and many others. Xanterra Travel Collection is owned by The Anschutz Corporation, the ultimate owner of the Broadmoor, Sea Island, and entertainment giant AEG, Anschutz Entertainment Group.

About the Author

Carolyn Spencer Brown, chief content officer for Cruise Media, LLC, is an award-winning cruise and travel journalist, and editor. She specializes in content strategy, development and execution for cruise lines and travel companies. Prior to joining Cruise Media, Spencer Brown was as editor in chief for Cruise Critic for 14 years, leading a team that won three Lowell Thomas Awards from the Society of American Travel Writers. She launched the global site’s U.K. and Australia versions. Later, she moved on to become chief content strategist for the iconic website, partnering with cruise lines and travel companies to create customized content. Before, during and after her 17 year tenure at Cruise Critic, she also contributed to Conde Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Town & Country, and the UK’s Sunday Times, among other publications.

Regenerating The Red Sea

November 8, 2022 Saudi Arabia

Regenerating The Red Sea

Located on the west coast of Saudi Arabia, the Red Sea is evolving as a year-round destination with a key focus on regeneration through sustainable practices that include 100% commitment to renewable energy, modern technology to provide personalized digital services, and immersive experiences for a “true Arabian” adventure.

The Red Sea will start welcoming guests in 2023 with 16 world-class resorts opening in the first phase of development. These include 11 resorts on hub island Shura, two resorts on the Ummahat islands, one resort on Sheybarah Island, and two inland resorts at Desert Rock and Southern Dunes.

The second phase of development will conclude in 2030 with 50 resort openings and 1,000+ residential properties across 22 islands and six inland sites. Each resort has its own unique attributes whether it be its architectural design or activities and attractions around the property.

Each island is located just a short distance from the mainland and the Red Sea International Airport by airplane or boat ride.

Keep reading for a sneak peek of what Saudi Arabia has in store for regenerating the Red Sea…

Photos Courtesy of Red Sea Development Company

Sustainable Practices

The Red Sea is home to one of the last thriving coral reef ecosystems on the planet. With an unwavering commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural, cultural, and historical environments, the Red Sea will be the first tourism project of its size to be powered solely by renewable energy. The Red Sea embraces the “Neo-Saudi Explorer,” someone who is respectful of ancient culture, discovering new territories in a safe, secure and crafted manner.

The Red Sea Development environmental initiatives include:

Less than 1% of the entire area of the destination will be developed
75% of the islands will remain untouched
Nine islands designated as special conservation zones
Development of a sustainable food supply
Visitors capped at 1 million people per year
Single-use plastics banned once fully operational
On-site landscape nursery will provide more than 25 million plants
100% renewable energy (24 hours a day via solar power)
Smart sensors to detect environmental impact
Zero waste to landfill Zero carbon footprint
Alignment with all 17 of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals

Saudi Arabia’s long-term goal is to achieve a 30 percent net conservation benefit by 2040 by enhancing biologically diverse habitats including mangroves, seagrass, corals, and land vegetation. With many of these initiatives already in place for 2023, this long-term goal is well on track to be achieved.

*Photos Courtesy of Red Sea Development*

Immersive Experiences

With desert rock mountains, sweeping sand dunes, and overwater villas with hues of blue and green, The Red Sea offers spectacular views and activities for travelers of all interests.

Marvel under the night sky while camping under the Milky Way. Look up and learn the traditional importance of astronomy to Islamic practices and the way life has been guided for centuries in Saudi.

Hike through canyons, sweeping dunes and rugged mountains, or bike through ancient volcanic lava fields, with their cinder cones and craters.

Take an aquatic adventure by night diving, reef diving, or heritage diving among some of the world’s most thriving corals. There is also plenty to see while snorkeling or kayaking in crystal blue seas over carefully protected coral reefs.

Smart Systems

The Red Sea is implementing an extensive smart digital system to allow visitors to have the most seamless and modern travel experience throughout their stay. Highly personalized digital systems include:

Virtual concierge services complemented by the highest level of personal attention
Luggage sent from The Red Sea’s iconic airport straight to guest’s hotels, dispensing with the need for immigration and customs queues

With all these developments in the works, The Red Sea will rapidly become a highly sought-after destination starting next year. What would you explore while visiting? The opportunities are endless.

For more information about The Red Sea visit www.visitredsea.com.

10 surprising things you can do in Manitoba

October 3, 2022 Manitoba

10 surprising things you can do in Manitoba

Discover hidden gems in the middle of Canada. Manitoba has rich cultural roots, breathtaking landscapes, world-class museums and opportunities for incredible encounters with polar bears, bison and northern lights. Read on for 10 amazing adventures in the province where Canada’s heart beats.

Go on an arctic safari

No roads lead to the remote subarctic town of Churchill, Manitoba. Getting there is part of the adventure with options to travel by train or plane. Once you arrive, you’ll find a warm and welcoming community plus the opportunity to check off plenty of bucket list experiences.

In fall, see polar bears roam the Hudson Bay coastline, spot arctic wildlife and marvel at the beauty of the tundra and the majestic northern lights at night.

*Photo Courtesy of Travel Manitoba*
*Take a ride on Frontiers North Adventures’ electric Tundra Buggy® to their Thanadelthur Lounge to see the northern lights dance in the night sky.*

Travel the tundra in an electric vehicle

Churchill, the polar bear capital of the world, is one of the few human settlements where these majestic mammals can be viewed in the wild. Now you can get up close and personal with these kingly giants in an electric Tundra Buggy® with Frontiers North Adventures. Due to zero-emission vehicle technology, this new type of Tundra Buggy® means minimal disruption to the bears and their natural habitat.

*Liz Tran Photography, Photo Courtesy of Travel Manitoba*
*A polar bear basks in the sunshine on the tundra in Churchill, Manitoba.*

Walk with polar bears

You can greet the world’s largest carnivore from the comfort of Churchill Wild’s remote eco-wilderness lodges or, best of all, walk among them with a guide and photograph them in their natural habitat. On a guided walking safari, you might encounter polar bears and other wildlife like arctic hare, wolves, arctic and coloured fox and moose.

Take your knowledge of aviation history to new heights

Experience one of the most significant global collections of bush planes at the new location of the Royal Aviation Museum of Western Canada. It’s also home to a large collection of aircraft ranging from bush flying, military, passenger, experimental aircraft and thousands of aviation artifacts.

Photo Courtesy of Travel Manitoba
The Leaf–Canada’s Diversity Gardens is a new garden attraction in Winnipeg that celebrates natural and cultural diversity with indoor and outdoor spaces, including over 30-acres of gardens that explore the universal connections between people and plants.

Stop to smell the flowers at The Leaf–Canada’s Diversity Gardens

The Leaf–Canada’s Diversity Gardens is one of Manitoba’s newest attractions with indoor and outdoor spaces that explore connections between people and plants. The Gardens at The Leaf is a 30-acre revitalized outdoor space divided into six uniquely themed gardens touching on connections with food, our senses and Indigenous cultures and languages.

*JP Media Works, Photo Courtesy of Travel Manitoba*
*Winnipeg Art Gallery’s newest addition, Qaumajuq, houses more than 14,000 pieces of contemporary Inuit art, about one-third of the collection is visible in a three-story glass vault.*

View thousands of pieces of Inuit art in one place

Qaumajuq is a stunning addition to the Winnipeg Art Gallery in the city’s downtown area. Its architecture was inspired by Canada’s northern landscape and the centre holds the world’s largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art at over 14,000 pieces, each piece representing the story of Canada’s North.

Discover new exhibits at the Manitoba Museum

In recent years, the Manitoba Museum has updated several of its core nine galleries. The new Prairies Gallery tells the story of Indigenous Peoples in Manitoba using a beautiful plains tipi, a Red River cabin and cart and other artifacts.

Photo Courtesy of Travel Manitoba
The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is an icon of the Winnipeg skyline, designed by *Antoine Predock Architect of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Predock has described the building as “carved into the earth and dissolving into the sky”.*

Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is impressive not only for its innovative architecture it’s also the world’s only museum dedicated to the topic of global human rights issues. Through ten permanent galleries, learn and reflect on the triumphs and failures of the human spirit. You’ll leave inspired to make the world a better place.

Dine under the aurora borealis

Dan’s Diner, located across the frozen Churchill River away from the town, is a remote dining experience and culinary adventure like none other. Enjoy delicious regional and local fare in a mobile Tundra Buggy® while northern lights dance overhead.

Explore an urban natural oasis

At FortWhyte Alive, a short drive from downtown Winnipeg, you can get up close with North America’s largest land mammal—the bison—in their natural habitat. Follow the path to find adventure in over 660 acres of forests, lakes and multi-use trails. You may spot whitetail deer, waterfowl and countless other wildlife while you explore.

About Travel Manitoba

Travel Manitoba is a source of trip inspiration for bucket-list adventurers, outdoors enthusiasts and arts and culture explorers. Manitoba is located in the center of Canada and is home to a thriving urban hub in capital city Winnipeg, wide-open landscapes and pristine wilderness throughout the province.

About the Author: Melanie Swenarchuk is Senior Market Development Manager and an expert on all things Manitoba. See travelmanitoba.com for more information.

Wine Experiences Beyond the Tasting Room

September 27, 2022 Travel

Wine Experiences Beyond the Tasting Room

By: Audley Travel

From rustic tables in a South African vineyard to ultramodern bars in Napa Valley, tasting rooms are the classic way to sample new vintages and learn more about the wine’s terroir. But what if you want something a little different? The country specialists at Audley have scoured the world for unusual ways for you to enjoy your wine — here are five of their favorites.

La Rioja, Spain: stay at a hotel with a wine spa

Nestled among the seemingly endless vineyards of La Rioja, the avant garde Hotel Marques de Riscal is a shimmering oasis of luxury. The hotel, which was designed by celebrity architect Frank Gehry, is home to SPA Vinothérapie Caudalie, where all the treatments on the menu draw from elements of the wine-making process. You can indulge in a pomace massage or relax in a bath spiked with red-wine extracts.

Photo of the Hotel Marques de Riscal
Photo Courtesy of Audley Travel

California, USA: ride the Wine Train

All aboard this fully restored historic train, which runs through California’s renowned Napa Valley. Burnished brass, buttery leather, plush upholstery, and gleaming woodwork set an elegant stage for your journey through the heart of the valley, with stops at various wine estates for tastings and tours. You’ll also enjoy an exquisitely prepared meal (with wine pairings, of course).

*Photo of the Wine Train*
*Photo Courtesy of Audley Travel*

Bordeaux, France: learn to blend your own wine

As oenophiles know, Bordeaux wine is a blend rather than a single grape. If you want to learn the gentle art of wine blending, we suggest this workshop, held in a reclaimed Bordeaux townhouse. You’ll start with an introduction to the nuances of Bordeaux wines and a refresher course in how to taste wine like a professional sommelier. Finally, you’ll mix your own bottle, using your preferred ratios of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to create the perfect blend for you to take home as a souvenir.

Barolo, Italy: visit a wine museum in a castle

The history of wine is deeply entwined with the history of Italy, and nowhere is this more apparent than at the WiMu Museo del Vino a Barolo. Tucked inside a 1,000-year-old castle in the Langhe, the museum explores the history and culture of wine through emotive, interactive exhibits. In the cellar, Regional Enoteca of Barolo (a wine bar) offers a chance to sample the local goods. And just outside, the whimsical Corkscrew Museum displays more than 600 examples, ranging from the historic to the hilarious.

Franschhoek, South Africa: wine tasting on horseback

A little over an hour west of Cape Town, South Africa’s Winelands make a great destination for a daytrip. But, there’s so much to see (and sip) that we recommend spending a few nights. One of the best places to base yourself is Franschhoek, home of Paradise Stables. Here, you can mount purebred Arabian horses for an ambling ride through the valley’s vineyards and over the mountains, with plenty of stops to admire the views. And, of course, you’ll pause at wineries for tastings and tours.

About Audley Travel

At Audley Travel, our passion is creating trips that change your world by helping you see the world your way. For 25 years, we’ve listened to you, and crafted individual trips designed to help you experience destinations in a way that feels most meaningful to you.

Our specialists travel regularly to their destination to renew their passion and keep their knowledge up to date. They’ll draw on this first-hand experience to shape your trip around what interests you, sharing tips and advice you won’t find in a guide book, whether that’s their favorite local vineyard or the restaurant with the best wine cellar.

For Queen and Country: How Has Travel Changed in 70 Years?

September 14, 2022 England

For Queen and Country: How Has Travel Changed in 70 Years?

By: Katie Thompson – Marketing Manager at The Group Company

This content was written prior to the sad passing of Her Majesty the Queen on September 8, 2022. As a recipient of The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2018, The Group Company has been particularly affected by this tragic event. We would like to express our sincerest condolences to the Royal Family and wish King Charles III well in his new role.

From natural disasters to economic collapse, few industries are as resilient as travel. While the last two years have brought about perhaps the biggest changes in travel we’ll ever see, they are by no means the first.

In 2022, the United Kingdom paid tribute to Her Majesty the Queen, who celebrated 70 years on the throne. It’s a fitting metaphor for the travel industry itself – remaining strong as the world continues to pose ever more challenges.

Her Majesty’s Jubilee celebrations were watched by more than a billion viewers around the world. It gave us time to reflect not only on her reign, but the changing state of the world around us. So, what have we learned from the last 70 years, and what can we expect to change?

From the golden age onward

Back in 1953, the world was immersed in the “golden age of travel.” It was a luxury, with air travel being likened to a 5* hotel experience rather than a journey. Picture silver service, smoking on planes and up to six inches more legroom.

Of course, while these “luxuries” are no longer common, we have more affordability and flexibility. In fact, in the period between 2000 and 2010, international arrivals to the US almost doubled – echoing the post-war economic boom between 1950 and 1980.

Our choice in travel diversified, too. Since the start of Queen Elizabeth’s reign, for example, international interest in Asia and the Pacific has steadily risen. Modes of transport have also changed. In 1972, the launch of InterRail spelled a boon for European tourism. Meanwhile, Japan’s Shinkansen “bullet train” and Shanghai’s Maglev reach eye-watering speeds.

Access to travel

In the last 70 years, travel has become more accessible the world over. InterRail opened up new opportunities for young people, while one in five of us now travels for business. The advent of low-cost airlines has helped. In the 1950s, just 2% of the UK population would travel abroad – compared to 56% today.

As ever, technology has had a huge role to play in improving our access to travel. Terrorism threats saw a 33% decline in air travel at the turn of the century. Today, flight safety and security are at their peak, thanks to full-body scanners, e-passport gates, and advanced luggage scanning.

Likewise, we are traveling more because we have more knowledge. In the UK, for example, 1969 saw the introduction of the Development of Tourism Act. Since then, Britain has launched marketing campaigns in more than 22 countries. A stand-out campaign in 1994 encouraged US travelers to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of D-Day.

What do we want from our experiences?

Another key development in travel is changing consumer tastes. Back in the 50s, “traveling like a tourist” was very much the norm – often leading to stereotyping and poor experiences.

Today’s traveler wants to “live like a local,” underpinned by other trends such as sustainability and social consciousness. Younger generations are embracing authentic experiences, and so too are groups. At The Group Company, founded in 2006, we have noticed an upward trend in these “experiences” – for example, international cooking classes.

Travel today is not simply for leisure, but to experience, transform, and learn. We’re also making our decisions based on factors such as green travel, opting for lower-carbon flights or electric rental cars.

What’s next for the world of travel?

Seventy years is a long time in travel, and there’s no doubt that the next will be even more transformational. Technology is enhancing our connectivity, our browsing, and our access to never-before-seen destinations. In the coming years, we should expect developments such as:

Hygiene as a marketing tool: from hotel rooms to beaches, cleanliness is a key concern
Shrewder searching: augmented and virtual reality will aid travel campaigns
Green travel: price may not be as influential a factor as concerns like carbon emissions.

One thing that has stayed consistent for 70 years, however, is the need for good customer service. Social media and third-party review sites are helping customers connect on a deeper level.

Travel has had its highs and lows in the last seven decades – but customer service will always be consistent.

All Images: ©Adobe Stock

About The Group Company

The Group Company is a UK-based wholesaler working with tour operators throughout the US, UK, and Europe. We provide tailor-made touring itineraries throughout these three destinations, working exclusively with groups. We sell to tour operators only, contracting all suppliers directly for a fast response, competitive rates, and outstanding customer service. With more than 15 years’ experience, we make group travel easy for our clients.

How a Commercial Airline can Stay Committed to Sustainability and Cleaner Skies

September 7, 2022 Travel

How a Commercial Airline can Stay Committed to Sustainability and Cleaner Skies

6 ways Singapore Airlines integrates sustainability into its operations, and takes eco-friendliness from a trend to a core value

When you think of “going-green” you may think of household composting, sorting your recyclables, or riding your bike to work, but there are many ways a commercial airline can also make an impact. Singapore Airlines (SIA) has identified several areas where we can eliminate waste and work towards reducing our carbon footprint, all while maintaining operational and safety standards.

Economy Class Meal Service
Photo Courtesy of Singapore Airlines

1. Waste reduction: SIA is reducing single-use plastics onboard, including becoming entirely plastic-straw free, replacing plastic swizzle sticks with wood-based ones, and swapping polybags from children’s toys with recyclable paper packaging. We have introduced an economy class meal concept which uses sustainable paper packaging and bamboo cutlery, reducing the use of single-use plastics by 80% and halving the weight of meal packaging. SIA has also teamed up with Singapore-based food waste management start-up Lumitics to help use advanced analytics and machine learning to optimize ordering, usage, and to ultimately minimize the amount of food waste the airline generates.

2. Sustainable fuel initiatives: An obvious challenge to sustainability in aviation is reducing an aircraft’s carbon emissions from using jet fuel. SIA has participated in several alternative fuel pilot programs over the years in an effort to source viable fuel alternatives and most recently has selected ExxonMobil for a new pilot with support from the Civil Aviation authority of Singapore and Temasek, to supply and deliver sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), derived from used cooking oil and animal fat waste, blended with refined jet fuel. This project is just a start but over the one-year pilot is expected to reduce about 2,500 tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

3. Carbon Off-setting: Voluntary carbon offsetting is now commonplace for airline passengers and corporate customers to help voluntarily neutralize their individual portion of emissions from their journey by paying a small amount to invest in other carbon reduction projects. SIA offers these programs and for those who wish to participate, they can use cash or miles to invest in meaningful projects such protecting forests in Indonesia, supporting renewable solar energy projects in India, and providing efficient, clean burning cookstoves for rural families in Nepal.

AeroFarms – New Jersey Facility
*Photo Courtesy of AeroFarms*

4. Local Sourcing: You may have heard of “farm-to-table” but have you heard of “farm-to-plane”? Sourcing local products for onboard consumption is part of SIA’s farm-to-plane strategy whereby we work with local suppliers to bring fresh and delicious products to our customers. Shortening supply chains reduces carbon emissions but it also allows a company to work with partners who are using innovative technologies to locally produce ingredients to provide socially and environmentally friendly offerings. One of these partners is AeroFarms, the world’s largest indoor vertical farm of its kind, which uses aeroponic farming to produce salad greens for onboard meals, just down the road from Newark-Liberty International Airport in New Jersey

5. Reforestation Projects: Companies have a social responsibility to give back to the communities they do business in. One way that SIA does this is through an ongoing conservation project with one of the few remaining lowland forests in Indonesia, the Harapan Rainforest, which has 98,555 hectares covered by an ecosystem restoration concession. So far 2,787 trees replanted under the Harapan Rainforest Initiative, with 260 hectares of forest restored.

6. Fleet Modernization: The largest source of carbon emissions from an airline is from fuel burn during flight, making maintaining a young and modern fleet, the most effective way to reduce emissions. SIA has always championed its commitment to this as it serves the environment, as well as customers, by delivering the latest in aircraft technology and comfort. We have invested in the most fuel-efficient aircraft, such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, which are known for their advanced technology and high fuel-efficient performance. These newer-generation aircraft help to boost fuel efficiency by up to 30% over previous-generation aircraft.

About Singapore Airlines

The SIA Group’s history dates back to 1947 with the maiden flight of Malayan Airways Limited. The airline was later renamed Malaysian Airways Limited and then Malaysia-Singapore Airlines (MSA). In 1972, MSA split into Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Malaysian Airline System. Initially operating a modest fleet of 10 aircraft to 22 cities in 18 countries, SIA has grown to be a world-class international airline group that is committed to the constant enhancement of the three main pillars of its brand promise: Service Excellence, Product Leadership and Network Connectivity. For more information, please visit www.singaporeair.com. We invest in large-scale initiatives that progress the company and the communities in which we operate towards a sustainable future.

Tips for Being a More Responsible/Sustainable Traveler

August 17, 2022 Travel

Tips for Being a More Responsible/Sustainable Traveler

Every travel decision you make has the potential to move the needle toward a more sustainable future for people and our planet. Sure, you want to minimize any negative impacts of traipsing around the globe. But responsible tourism is all about considering how to do the most good, too, by visiting places that depend on tourism right when they need you most.

If you’re ready to take steps, large and small, that can have a significant impact on the natural environments and the communities you encounter along your way, take these tips to heart:

Understand Your Transportation Options

Your usual local modes of travel may not be the gentlest-on-the-planet way to go, so take yourself off autopilot. Rent a hybrid or electric vehicle. Check to see if a shuttle or bus might be an alternative before you hail a cab or ride service. Frequent cafes and restaurants within walking or cycling distance of your lodging. And, when selecting an airline, consider more than price and frequent flier miles. United has invested more in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) globally than any other airline, and they’re so committed to combating climate change, they’re on a path toward reducing 100% of their greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local Communities

Many communities rely on the inward flow of tourism dollars. Take exotic Tenerife, largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, which has fast become a world-class destination thanks to its welcoming residents, unbeatable climate, and vast offerings for visitors. Recognized as a Certified Biosphere Destination for its sustainable tourism initiatives, Tenerife is one of many places where tourist dollars have a positive impact not only on the local economy but on efforts to preserve natural expanses. Nearly half of its territory is categorized as protected. Seek out these places, but don’t just go. Pack lightly, and purchase what you need when you arrive. Eat local food. Stay a few extra nights. And consider an off-season visit, when your support is most needed.

Tour Wisely

A bit of research will help you choose a tour operator that shares your sustainable travel ambitions. Many USTOA members have been inspired by the organization’s goal of preserving the globe’s human, natural, and cultural assets, and they’re working diligently to make positive changes. What innovative things are they doing? Everything from designing unique itineraries that address overtourism to implementing animal welfare policies. Some are creating opportunities for travelers to give back to the destinations they visit. A few are actively pursuing carbon neutrality.

Open Your Mind to New Destinations

If your dream destination list only includes the usual suspects, consider broadening your horizons. There are countries making great “green” strides that don’t show up on every “top 10” list, so they might not be on your radar… yet. Imagine snacking on fried cod tongue—a delicacy that aligns with the nose-to-tail culinary movement—and racing silently across the frozen terrain of the starkly lovely Lyngen Alps on a snowmobile safari. Norway, where electric cars and electric snowmobiles are all the rage, has been recognized by the United Nations as “a leader in the global transition towards an inclusive green economy.” If a slower pace suits you, board a ferry to South Korea’s volcanic Jeju Island: the world’s first recipient of UNESCO’s triple crown of designations (Biosphere Reserve, World Natural Heritage Site, Global Geopark). Here, you can walk the Olle Trail, discover lava tubes and waterfalls, bask on white sand beaches, and savor black pig, which is unlike any pork you’ve ever tasted.

Act Like a Sustainability Superhero

Wherever your adventures take you, there are simple things you can do to leave a place better than you found it: Reduce your use of plastics, pick up trash, recycle, skip printed maps and brochures, reuse your towels, respect local customs, volunteer, donate to local causes. It’s all about treading lightly, and sensitively, as you step out in the world. Go one step further by telling friends about your sustainability efforts. Share photos on social media of eco-destinations, “green” experiences, artisanal products, and mouthwatering local cuisine. You just might entice others to follow the trail you’ve blazed.

Click here to meet USTOA’s Sustainable Superhero.

Header Image Courtesy of Anders Gjengedal and Visit Norway

Why Purchase Travel Insurance: The importance of protecting your next trip

August 3, 2022 Travel

Why Purchase Travel Insurance: The importance of protecting your next trip

Booking a vacation is exciting. You are most likely concerned with picking the right destination and packing your suitcase, but are you also concerned with purchasing travel insurance? Many travelers think that insurance is only necessary for oversees vacations or expensive travel, but travel insurance can be a valuable investment for all vacations.

Photo Courtesy of Redpoint Travel Insurance

No one purchases a vacation with the intention to cancel, but sometimes the unexpected event happens. Travel insurance programs provide valuable protection against these incidents. One of the most popular benefits of purchasing travel insurance is the Trip Cancellation benefit. For example, if you experience an unforeseen sickness or injury before travelling you could be covered. This coverage can provide reimbursement for unused, non-refundable pre-paid travel arrangement if you cancel for a listed covered reason.

Comprehensive travel protection plans also provide coverage in the event a traveler incurs medical expenses while traveling. Many travelers are unsure whether their health-care plan will cover medical expenses while traveling. Purchasing medical expense coverage for a specific trip ensures you receive quality care while on your vacation. Many comprehensive travel insurance products also include a medical evacuation component. This coverage can provide transportation services if you or your family member needs hospitalization. Redpoint Travel Protection will arrange and pay for all evacuation services to occur with no out-of-pocket cost for the traveler.

Air travel can also be unpredictable with the potential for a flight delay, missed connection, or lost luggage. Travel insurance provides added assurance that reasonable expenses you incur due to these types of mishaps could be reimbursed. Make sure to keep all receipts and file a claim when you return home.

Okay, so you have decided to purchase travel insurance, when is the best time to buy? As soon as you purchase your trip! Many travel insurance programs include early purchase benefits. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, purchasing within a specified time frame can waive those conditions. If you forget to purchase coverage within the early purchase window, you are likely still eligible for coverage. Purchasing travel insurance before departure can let you rest assured knowing you are covered in the event you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason.

Make sure you do your research before purchasing. Policies may vary and it is imperative that you examine the key benefits to confirm the policy meets your travel needs. Travelers should also always review the policy’s listed coverage as well as the limitations and exclusions.  Understanding your travel insurance policy will ensure that you are not disappointed in the event you must file a claim

The information presented in this article is a brief description of travel insurance coverage and is for information use only. Please read your specific policy carefully to fully understand the coverage, terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions.

About Redpoint

Redpoint  Travel Protection provides travelers with the industry’s best, most comprehensive and flexible array of insurances and services that include trip cancellation/ interruption, property loss, medical and travel assistance, and evacuation. Redpoint Travel Protection’s suite of products ensures the right plan is available for all travel. To ensure the best possible partner experience, Redpoint uniquely owns and provides all key aspects of its offerings: travel assistance, evacuation, claims management and payment, and insurance underwriting.  This means Redpoint can create customized programs for our partners and actively collaborate to provide the best customer experience in the industry.

My Favorite Portuguese Finds and Where to Get them Now that I am Back Home

July 28, 2022 Portugal

My Favorite Portuguese Finds and Where to Get them Now that I am Back Home

By: Margaret Campbell, Sr. Director of Marketing at Mayflower Cruises & Tours

All Photos Courtesy of Margaret Campbell

Olá! I’m Margaret the Sr. Director of Marketing at Mayflower Cruises & Tours and last November I traveled Portugal for the first time to experience the Douro River valley at the height of the autumn foliage. I cruised onboard our parent company’s luxurious Scenic Azure for 10 days and indulged in all of the famed Portuguese specialties along my journey. Today, I am going to share my top five favorite things I picked up in Portugal and where I find them now that I am back home in the states.

*Margaret and her Mother, Kathy Dixon in Lamengo*

Wine

This one is the obvious choice given the region. The Douro is world famous for its Port wine. Port is a fortified wine, or wine to which brandy has been added to stop the fermentation process and ultimately leaving the wine a bit sweeter and with a higher ABV, typically around 20%. This sweet treat comes in many varieties and is often served with dessert, but I found the port tonic cocktails that our bartender onboard was serving up to be my favorite! So, whether you are looking for a Ruby, White, Rose or Tawny, try your local liquor store for bottle of Cockburns, Sandman, Croft or my favorite…Morgadio Da Calcada.

Maybe Port wine isn’t for you, don’t let that stop you from traveling to the Douro Valley for a wine adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage area is one of the oldest wine producing areas in the world and is home to more than 80 types of grapes and the quintas here produces many delicious whites, reds, roses and even green wines. Before traveling to Portugal, I had never heard of green wine but after tasting my first Vinho Verde at the Quinta da Aveleda I was converted. Their delicious sparkling Aveleda Fonte White is light, crisp and refreshing. I was pleasantly surprised by not just the Green but the white, red and rose table wines of the Douro Valley. Since being home my favorite place to pick up these regional favorites is at the Chicago land-based Binny’s stores, they have a great selection and I love sharing my finds with my friends now that the weather is finally warming up.

Sardines

Portugal is seafood obsessed and sardines reign supreme. Fresh, tinned, however you enjoy them, you can have them. The legend is that sardines gained their popularity thanks in part to St. Anthony, Patron St. of Lisbon. The story goes, St. Anthony was on expedition and while trying to gain the attention of the locals, he turned to the fish and started preaching, he captured their attention and from then on, the sardines were legendary.

Soap

Soap making is a time-honored tradition in Portugal dating back to Claus Porto the country’s first soap maker in 1887. Since then, the people of Portugal have been producing some of the best soaps in the world and packaging them in the most beautiful wrappings. My favorites include the Castelbel White Crane. I picked up a bar while shopping in Porto and it was gone almost immediately after I returned home. I haven’t gotten my hands on another bar yet, but I have been keeping my eyes out for one. I have however found quite a few other scents by Castelbels at Homegoods and World Market. These make great gifts or just nice additions to your everyday home uses.

Cork

Portugal is the largest producer of cork in the world. Now the vast majority of the world’s cork supply that comes from Portugal is made into wine stoppers, there are many other things that you may be surprised to learn are made from cork… While doing some shopping in Porto, I picked up a pair of ASPORTUGUESAS slip-on shoes, they are made from cork and wool and are 100% sustainable but did you know that Birkenstocks soles are also made using cork?

*Douro Valley Vineyards and Olive Trees*

Olives

Olive trees play an important role in the vineyards of the Douro Valley, helping to hold the steep walls of the valley in place and protecting the vineyards from washing away during the rainy season. What I found so fascinating was at each Quinta we visited the families each told stories of harvesting the olives by hand with their nets and sticks when the fruit was at the correct ripeness, either green or black. Then sharing for olive oil or eating fresh. Portuguese olives and olive oil are delicious, but they have proven to be the hardest things to find since being home. Luckily for me we live in the age of the internet and there is a wonderful Portuguese market located just outside of Boston. The Portugalia Marketplace has it all and they ship.

My time spent on the Douro on the Scenic Azure with Mayflower Cruises & Tours was amazing. I loved experiencing the culture, people and food. I cannot wait to plan my return trip to pick up a few more of my favorites and find my next five!

Find your dream vacation to Portugal with a USTOA tour operator here https://ustoa.travelstride.com/trip-list/portugal

About Mayflower Cruises & Tours

Mayflower Cruises & Tours is a division of The Scenic Group. The Midwest based tour operator has been providing travelers world-class guided holidays around the world for over 40 years. Today, Mayflower has over 100 itineraries, travels to six continents and offers many different travel styles, including river cruising, special events departures, national parks adventures, seasonal excursions, domestic and international guided holidays and more. For more information about Mayflower Cruises & Tours, visit www.mayflowercruisesandtours.comor call 800-323-7604