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, and I regret nothing. From intricate metalwork and Tamegroute pottery to hand-blown glassware and traditional textiles, here's my totally subjective guide to all the treasures I can't stop buying in Marrakech's magical markets.

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.

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.

Ready to turn those Instagram dreams into reality? Join Laura Ericson's group trips in 2025 and dive into authentic cultural experiences from India's colorful festivals to Morocco's starlit Sahara. Discover how easy it is to check off your travel bucket list with like-minded explorers. Your next adventure awaits.

In a candid reflection on last-minute travel to India, Laura Ericson reveals why she meticulously scouts destinations before leading group trips. Through her own pre-trip anxieties about safety, cultural norms, and logistics, she demonstrates how this preparation process enables her to create seamless, well-planned experiences for her travelers, eliminating the uncertainties she currently faces during her scouting mission.

In one year as a business owner, I have learned a lot of important lessons. More lessons than I learned in 7 years of college, grad school and 14 years working in higher education and leadership combined.

Coffee. Chocolate. Music. Art. Dance. Colombia is a hidden gem of a country that’s underrated and off the beaten path.

It has so much to offer, yet travelers usually skip it to visit other more popular destinations.

Not you, though.

Let’s break down what 9 days in Colombia looks like on my group trip.