Shhhh…The Tours No One Knows About
Trust me when I say there is a tour for everyone and every theme. As I mentioned in my newsletter the other week, packaged tours can be a tremendously good value, and a lot of them have flexibility and downtime built in so you can do your own exploration. Does the idea of a packaged tour make you nervous?? Please keep reading! Especially when you select more unique destinations and themes, package tours can be a great way of meeting other like-minded travelers. And hey, what is life without connections?? 14 years after visiting Jordan and Syria (Syria is a story for another day), I’m still in touch with many of the people I traveled with.
Here are a few packaged tours that I’ve got my eye on…each tour has something fun and different and INTERESTING to offer.
Looking for something in particular? Book a travel consultation and let me know how I can help.
The Irish Pub Tour
Irish pubs are the hearts of their communities—a source of camaraderie, stories, and song. There’s no better way to explore Ireland than through its pubs. Raise a glass (or two!) to rich pub culture and history on this guided tour of Ireland, which offers plenty of stops at legendary pubs and historical highlights of the Emerald Isle. Visit Dublin, Kilkenny, the Dingle Peninsula, the Cliffs of Moher, and more.
Old World Sicily & Malta
Explore Sicily and Malta – two island paradises nestled amongst the deep blue waves of the Mediterranean. Engage with Malta’s dynamic past on a leisurely 4-night stay. Explore Siracusa’s archeological heritage (UNESCO) with a guide. Spend three nights in Taormina, perched above the Ionian Sea. See Mount Etna from a different perspective on an off-road excursion. Discover how ancient traditions blend into modern society as you travel along timeless Italian and Maltese towns.
Portugal: Coastal Walks, Vineyards & Villages of the Douro Valley
Walk Portugal's coastline with its rocky cliffs and sweeping views of the Atlantic. Continuing inland, discover medieval villages and picturesque countryside that are best appreciated on foot, walking alongside fig and olive trees and seeing castles in the distance, and follow trails next to vineyards in the Douro Valley, stopping to savor the wine and delicious regional food before capping off the adventure in Porto.
Grand Hawaiian Adventure: Four Islands featuring O'ahu, Big Island, Maui and Kauai
Embrace the spirit of “Aloha” on a leisurely 4-island tour of Hawaii. Enjoy your luxurious beachfront hotel in Waikiki. Remember Pearl Harbor and visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Embark on a wonderful drive along Oahu’s famous North Shore. Take in the natural beauty of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Visit a coffee farm in Kona and learn about the coffee bean’s journey from tree to cup. Experience a traditional Polynesian luau – just one of your stops in paradise. Relax and take in the natural beauty during a cruise along Wailua River. Admire the hula dance, an ancient Polynesian art form. Uncover the beauty, culture and traditions of all four islands.
Wellness Bali
Enter the tropical wonderland of Bali, long a beacon to travellers in search of uncovering their spiritual side. Start your journey inward with Canang in Ubud, a traditional offering given at Hindu temples, before immersing yourself in nine days of rejuvenating activities, healthy food, and captivating sights. From daily yoga practices to traditional Balinese healing ceremonies to stops at serene beaches (Pemuteran, Sanur), you will be entranced by Bali’s natural calming spirit that continues to lure people from all over the world seeking a deeper connection.
National Parks of America
Experience the grandeur of the American West as you explore five fantastic national parks on this exciting journey. In Arizona, contemplate the vast beauty of the Grand Canyon, and in Yellowstone, relish iconic sights like Old Faithful and Yellowstone Lake. Marvel at the magnitude and color of Zion’s cliffs and the hoodoos and spires at Bryce Canyon. Enjoy 2-night stays in Springdale, Utah (Zion) and Jackson Hole. Drive through the incredible Bighorn Mountains and the great Sioux Nations Territory before seeing Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse Monument. Meet a local Lakota Native American at dinner and learn about their fascinating way of life, past and present. Gain new appreciation of the great outdoors on this journey that takes you from the Grand Canyon to Mount Rushmore National Memorial and everywhere in between.
Flavours of Vietnam
Expert guides reveal a vibrant mix of culture and cuisine on an immersive adventure designed for foodies who like to travel in style. Explore Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long Bay, the Mekong Delta and beyond as you sample iconic dishes, visit local markets and meet with farmers along the way. To start and end with a culinary bang, your journey is bookended with welcome and farewell dinners at two of Vietnam’s hottest Michelin-starred restaurants. This tour is so new it’s not even listed in the Virtuoso directory yet. Vietnam is one of my absolute favorite places. Contact me if you’re interested in this tour or other independent options.
Kenya: Cultural Connections, Mt Kenya & the Maasai Mara
From the majesty of seeing the migration of some of Earth's most incredible creatures, to the magic of being immersed into the bush of the Maasai Mara, this adventure goes well beyond that. Staying at a Maasai owned and operated lodge brings travelers straight into authentic Maasai life with hosts who’ve expertly crafted the experience. This welcome to Kenya sets the stage for a once in a lifetime adventure, full of animals, heart pounding moments, and a profound and enduring connection to the country’s gracious people. I have so many different options for Africa. Set up some time to talk if you’re ready to go!
Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Walking the Turquoise Coast
Be whisked into the past with the sights and smells of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar, and experience the city's rich history and traditions showcased by iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Moving inland, explore the dramatic rock formations and underground cities of Cappadocia on foot or by bicycle. Next, visit Ephesus and Pinare before heading to Turkey's stunning Turquoise Coast for hikes along the Lycian Way and a boat ride to see cliff-side rock tombs along the Dalyan River. This is an amazing tour for adventurous souls.
What Do You Think?
I hope one or more of these tours have inspired you to dust off your passport! Intrigued? Please reach out and let me find the perfect tour for you!
About Krista
I’m a Notre Dame grad and a Chicago Booth MBA. I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England, selling financial data. My career and personal travel have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others. Let me make your next vacation seamless for you.
Like my page on Facebook for more travel inspiration.
Sign up for travel insurance through my partner, Travel Insured. (US residents only.)
Do you like to DIY? Book directly using my links here.
