Travel has a way of surprising us, challenging our assumptions, and opening up new possibilities. In this candid discussion, two travelers - Vince and Rich - share how group travel transformed their perspectives, from making mojitos in Cuba to exploring Colombian coffee culture. Their experiences reveal how the right balance of structure and freedom can create meaningful connections and authentic cultural immersion.

After 14+ countries and too many suitcases, I've got strong opinions about what's worth the precious luggage space. Not the Instagram-perfect crap that travel influencers push, but the real MVPs that have saved me from disasters across four continents. These are the things I've panic-bought in foreign pharmacies, stolen from friends, and finally invested in after one too many "well that was completely preventable" moments.

Journey through the Greek islands with Stav, a passionate local guide who transformed his love for the sea and people into unforgettable sailing adventures. From secluded beaches to authentic tavernas, Stav reveals how exploring Greece by sailboat offers a unique perspective away from the tourist crowds, while sharing personal stories that bring the Mediterranean experience to life.

India did not disappoint! Who wants a resort trip when you can get out, experience and truly immerse yourself in the culture? From the breathtaking scale of Holi celebrations to custom-made saris, rickshaw adventures, and heartwarming school visits, our group experienced the true beauty of India beyond stereotypes. The vibrant colors, infectious energy, amazing food, and humbling perspectives left us with memories and friendships to last a lifetime.

Looking for bucket list inspiration? Meet Amanda, whose aspirations range from breaking plates in Greece to naming someone's child. Through her eclectic mix of dreams—both accomplished and pending—we discover how bucket lists become more than just checkboxes; they're repositories of family history, personal healing, and pure adventure, reminding us that the best life goals combine grand adventures with everyday joys.

In the UNESCO World Heritage site of Viñales Valley, a remarkable group of Cuban cowboys (guajiros) maintain centuries-old traditions while sharing their culture with visitors from around the world. From Changa, the Clint Eastwood lookalike with a heart of gold, to Yasel, the charismatic tobacco expert, these men represent the authentic soul of rural Cuba. Through their daily lives tending horses, rolling cigars, and preserving local customs, they offer travelers more than just guided tours – they provide a genuine window into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged by time. Whether it's sharing stories over dominoes under a palm-thatched palapa, demonstrating traditional tobacco cultivation, or leading horseback adventures through the valley's stunning landscape, these guardians of Cuban tradition exemplify the warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage that make Viñales an unforgettable destination.

From a tattoo skeptic to a curator of international ink adventures, my journey into coordinating group tattoo appointments abroad wasn't exactly planned.

There's nothing quite like your first Holi celebration. As ancient traditions burst to life in a dazzling spectacle of colors, you'll find yourself swept up in a joyous frenzy that transforms strangers into friends and paints the world in rainbow hues. But like any great adventure, proper preparation makes all the difference between a magical celebration and a potentially uncomfortable day. From protecting your skin to packing the right gear, here's your complete guide to celebrating Holi like a pro.

After countless trips through Marrakech's maze-like souks, my house has basically turned into a mini Moroccan bazaar.

When I first landed in Delhi, the sensory overload was overwhelming – from vibrant colors to aromatic spices filling the air. Like many first-time visitors to India, I felt anxious about what lay ahead. But from chaotic rickshaw rides through Delhi's streets to celebrating Holi with locals in Nandgaon, each experience revealed India's true magic. Beyond iconic sites like the Taj Mahal, it was the off-the-beaten-path moments that left the deepest impression: cooking authentic dishes with newfound friends, learning traditional crafts from local artisans, and surrendering to the joyful chaos of Holi celebrations. While India can be overwhelming, its beauty, spirituality, and transformative power make it an unforgettable destination. Join our March 2025 group trip for a carefully curated journey that balances must-see highlights with authentic local experiences, all while maintaining the perfect blend of cultural immersion and comfortable travel.

Coming home from an amazing trip can feel like landing on a different planet. This guide explores the delicate art of transitioning back to everyday life after transformative travel experiences, offering practical tips and emotional support for dealing with post-vacation blues, jet lag, and reintegrating into your routine while keeping your travel spirit alive.

Tired of rushing through destinations and feeling like you never have enough vacation days? Drawing from years of leading small group adventures, this guide reveals insider strategies for turning limited PTO into transformative travel experiences. Learn how to combine holidays strategically, create deeper cultural connections, and transform 15 PTO days into more than 50 days of meaningful global exploration—all while maintaining the perfect balance between adventure and authentic immersion.

Nature documentaries capture stunning moments, but spending time in Kenya revealed the raw, complex reality of wildlife. Between conversations with our guides and quiet moments of observation, I discovered surprising animal behaviors and partnerships that changed how I see the natural world - like giraffe-warthog alliances, zebra defense strategies, and the true nature of hippos that most tourists never learn about.

Three years ago, a small group of adventurous women joined our very first Mexico City trip, carrying nothing but open minds and willing hearts. Today, original travelers Taylor and Kathleen reflect on how that journey sparked lasting friendships, cultural appreciation, and personal transformation – from floating over Teotihuacan in hot air balloons to dancing on trajineras in Xochimilco. Their stories capture the magic that happens when solo travelers come together to experience a destination authentically and intentionally.

Discover Nōstos Serifos, a boutique eco-hotel in Greece that blends luxury with sustainability. Nestled in the Cyclades, this serene retreat offers stunning views, eco-conscious design, and a unique cultural experience. Explore the future of responsible travel at Nōstos Serifos.

Ever wondered what Kenya feels like beyond the typical safari circuit? Join me as I share how a FAM trip turned into a soul-stirring journey of unexpected connections - from cycling through dramatic landscapes and dancing with Maasai warriors to supporting women-led enterprises and finding family among strangers. This is Kenya as you've never seen it, where authentic experiences and responsible tourism create magic that Instagram can't capture.

Immerse yourself in Cuba’s rich cultural landscape with our guide to the seven must-do experiences that will take you beyond the usual tourist trail. From cruising Havana’s streets in a classic car to learning the art of Cuban cigars, we dive into authentic local encounters that will transform your trip into an unforgettable journey. Whether it's salsa dancing in hidden spots or savoring mojitos in Havana’s secret bars, these cultural adventures reveal the true soul of Cuba. Ready to experience Cuba like never before?

Calling all adventurous souls and cultural explorers! Ever wondered how to capture those breathtaking travel moments without feeling awkward or missing out on the experience? Get ready to transform your travel photos from ordinary to extraordinary! In this blog, I'm spilling my top secrets for nailing those Instagram-worthy shots, even if you're camera-shy. From blending into stunning landscapes to catching the vibrant colors of Holi, learn how to tell your unique travel story through photos. Discover how to look natural, use props creatively, and capture those candid moments that truly reflect your journey. Whether you're a solo traveler or part of our amazing group trips, these tips will help you create memories (and photos!) that'll last a lifetime. Ready to dive in and make your next adventure as colorful as you are? Let's turn those travel dreams into frame-worthy realities!

#AuthenticTravel #PhotoTips #AdventureCalling

Discover 17 game-changing travel essentials. From smart gadgets to packing hacks, learn how to travel lighter, smarter, and more authentically with our expert guide

Join solo travel expert Laura Ericson on a mouthwatering adventure in the heart of Athens! Discover how a hidden terrace cooking class became the highlight of her Greek journey. From crafting authentic dishes to forming new friendships, Laura shares how EatWith experiences can transform your travels. Get ready to savor the flavors, stories, and connections that make solo exploration truly unforgettable. Your ticket to a genuine taste of Greek culture awaits!