Vacation unfiltered. And the road less traveled.

“Certainly, travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.”

- Miriam Beard

The face of travel is changing. Domestic travel is as popular as ever. The glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, the sophistication of New York City and the wintery excitement of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains continue to incite smiles amongst their visitors. The Caribbean Islands remain a tropical playground for many US residents and Europe continues to be a delight. However, those people who have been there and done that from the back of a crowded motorcoach or cruise ship are wondering “what next”?

People are yearning for more authentic experiences with a penchant for adventure and the road less traveled. So does this sound like you? If so what are some places that might offer you something unique or some ways of traveling that will make some familiar places a bit more interesting?

Try something different this year. Play in the waterfalls and appreciate the fine cuisine and special wines of Washington state. Visit the wild, untamed beauty of Montana to see a ghost town, tour the dinosaur trail or relax in a luxurious spa.

International vacationers should consider eastern Europe and Russia along with southeast Asia and Africa. You will find fascinating cultures, beautiful architecture, vibrant cities, creative artwork, authentic experiences and friendly people.

How do we recommend seeing these places? Instead of a motorcoach why not try a small group trip? Small group trips typically vary in size from 10-20 people and offer the intimacy that larger groups often lack since you tend to be around people with similar interests. You will meet some new friends, and may develop lasting relationships that continue upon your return home. Small groups tend to give you more flexibility in what you do and allow you the chance to visit the smaller local restaurants and shopping areas. Many small groups still offer the convenience of taking care of your luggage, helping get you from place to place and providing knowledgable guides to immerse you in the area’s culture and history.

Another exciting option that is becoming more popular is river cruising. River cruising, like small land-based groups, offers a more intimate experience. These ships may hold a maximum of 120 people (60 cabins) opposed to their bigger brothers who sail the seas with as many as 4,000 people on the same ship. River cruises have the benefit of docking at much smaller ports along the way and often start you off right in the historical center of the village or city in which you are visiting. On a river, you have cute hamlets, magnificent castles and beautiful scenery moving past so you are never at a loss for things to watch while relaxing  in your balcony suite. Gourmet cuisine is prepared daily and some of the ingredients are purchased fresh from the regional markets. Daily excursions, wine from local vintners, and entertainment tend to be included for the cost of the cruise. Of course, many expected amenities such as access to wifi, the choice of various dining options and the ability to unpack once are all benefits to river cruising.

Those who want maximum flexibility and yet do not want to be concerned with navigating the sometimes confusing highways and byways of another country may want to consider a custom designed itinerary with a supplied car and driver. Visit the places you want to see, stay as long as you want to stay and have the peace of mind that you do not need to do the driving. Plus it does not hurt to have someone around to help you with your 4 suitcases packed to the brim of all kinds of wonderful treasures that you have found on your journey.

No matter how you decide to travel and where you want to go this world is a big place and there is a lot to see and experience. More and more unique opportunities are presented every day so whether you want to sail down the Chobe river in Africa on a water safari or go truffle hunting in Romania, enjoy. We encourage you to look at vacation from a fresh perspective. Relax, unwind and perhaps live life a bit more unfiltered.