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Europe will always be a classic, but more travelers are now looking farther afield for their next big adventure. Remote islands, dynamic cities, and wildlife-rich regions are topping the list for those ready to go the distance. As demand surges for Europe’s top destinations, this is the perfect time to explore beyond the usual and start planning the big trip you’ve been dreaming about. Japan continues to be popular thanks to the strength of the dollar against the yen. The temples of Kyoto and the dazzle of Tokyo are a must, but why not discover gorgeous empty beaches in Okinawa? In the North, skiers will find the legendary JaPow on the island of Hokkaido and enjoy the onsen après-scene that you can't find anywhere else. Australia never disappoints. Come to cuddle with a koala in Queensland, watch a mob of kangaroos lope across the Outback, and admire the sun set against the massive red stone of Uluru. Down Under is famous for its wildlife and outdoor adventures, but its cities are no slouch. See Sydney's famous harbour and wander the shops and cafes of Melbourne's laneways. Cruisers of all ages and stages are heading to Antarctica. If you haven't sailed the infamous Drake Passage yet, maybe it's time to see why everyone is talking about it. Expedition ships come in all styles—from ultra-luxe to family-friendly—and they all bring you up close to the icy landscapes, curious penguins, and jaw-dropping wildlife. These trips are also your chance to take a cold plunge right into the icy waters of Antarctica. Or book a small-ship adventure in the Galapagos for a bit of family quality time admiring giant tortoises and sea turtles, marine iguanas and those super cute blue-footed boobies. Ready for a safari? They vary from country to country. In Botswana's Okavango Delta, go for game paddles in a mokoro, or dugout canoe, or try South Africa for game drives in the open savannah. Between Kenya and Tanzania, see the Great Migration of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelles (and the big cats that come to feast) in Masai Mara National Park. Speak with me about the best bush camps for couples, multi-generational groups, and families with older teens. African Safari? Kangaroos in Australia?
Cold Plunge in Antarctica? Where will you go next?
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Are you ready to move beyond Africa's Big Five? Sure, the lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino are impressive but have you seen moose, bison, black bears, polar bears and beluga whales? In Northern Manitoba, you’ll find a surprising mix of Arctic and forest-dwelling wildlife. Tour companies in Churchill offer comfortable luxury and experienced guides for tundra buggy rides to see polar bears, then venture into the waters of Hudson's Bay and James Bay for beluga whale watching, before heading south into the forests and plains where moose, bison, and bears roam. Love the ocean? Glenapp Castle, located in southwest Scotland, a 90-minute drive south of Glasgow, offers a multi-day sea safari through the remote islands and firths of the southwest Hebrides. Overnight glamping, five-star picnics with the freshest of seafood in comfortable watercraft led by skilled mariners and a marine biologist guide. It’s a part of the world few reach but many wish they could. In Sri Lanka, seek out the adorable slender loris on your safari visit. Jeep rides through Minneriya, Udawalawe or Yala National Park will bring you close to herds of elephants and a leap (or a pack) of leopards, but you'll need to head out at night to catch a glimpse of the nocturnal, tree-dwelling loris. The wildlife rewards in this oft-forgotten safari destination are unbeatable. Don’t miss the cultural side of your safari. Visit Sri Lanka’s ancient temples and set aside time for Sigiriya, a third-century UNESCO World Heritage site just three hours from Colombo. The climb to the top of this carved granite citadel is unforgettable. There is a whole world of safaris out here, and I'll help you find yours!
When you want to experience something completely different, but you also don't want to travel too far away - Central & South America are great options! Read to find out why... The biodiversity of Central America is surprising. Much of Belize, for example, is still undeveloped rainforest. With such extensive habitat, the wildlife is spectacular – keep the jaguars and crocodiles at a distance, but expect to be amazed by the tapirs, howler monkeys, armadillos, toucans, parrots, and coatis too. Let's not forget Belize offers the second largest barrier reef in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Brazil is full of surprises, from the Amazon to iconic cities and peaceful beach towns. Beyond Rio’s famous views, you can explore the charm of Paraty, unwind in Trancoso, or spot jaguars in the Pantanal. Luxury lodges and stylish beach resorts make it easy to travel in comfort while soaking up Brazil’s rich culture and incredible biodiversity. In South America, the dramatic mountains and glacial lakes of Patagonia (crossing into Chile and Argentina) take your breath away, and if Ecuador and the Galapagos islands are still on your bucket list or if Peru’s Machu Picchu is still a must-see – book those now. If you’re looking for an urban and island getaway – may I suggest Panama? Panama City is a mid-haul flight from much of the U.S. Spend a few days exploring the 16th and 17th-century architecture of the Casco Viejo neighborhood, watch the ships pass by in the Panama Canal and book a table at one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Then, escape to Isla Secas, a private luxury resort spread out over 14 gorgeous islands. Come during humpback whale migration; it’s a spectacular spot to watch from. And there’s no need to rough it in the jungle or expect anything less than top-notch luxury. This is your chance to experience the laid-back joys of an estancia – consider it South America’s take on the guest ranch. Except that here you’re going to meet gauchos, the South American cowboy, drink mate and enjoy asado – the traditional open pit barbecue that’s not just a meal but a social event. Your dollar goes further in South and Central America. Let me craft a journey that goes beyond expectations.
The Cruise Trend that's Redefining AdventureIf it feels like everyone is talking about taking an expedition cruise, well – they are! Expedition ships are built for adventure (and these days – a whole lot of comfort, too). Combine this with the post-pandemic urge for immersive experiences in smaller groups and you'll understand what's captured the attention of so many travelers. Arctic cruises bring passengers into regions they may have only read about – kayaking among icebergs, spotting polar bears and narwhals, and connecting with Inuit culture and art. In the Antarctic, cruisers get closer to penguins, seals, and whales – and perhaps tick off a major bucket list item: crossing the notorious Drake Passage. (Pro tip: some expedition companies offer a fly-over option so you can meet your ship on the calmer side of the sea.) Indonesia’s remote islands offer a whole new kind of adventure—wild, warm, and full of surprises. You'll sail through Komodo National Park and the Spice Islands on a stylish, small ship built for exploring. Spend your days snorkeling colorful reefs, spotting Komodo dragons in the wild, and hiking past smoking volcanoes. Back onboard, expect laid-back luxury, great food, and a front-row seat to some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the region. Love a good cold plunge? Travelers will discover there’s no better way to tick their ice-bucket list at destinations around the world. Expedition ships often include polar plunge stops on their itineraries – ask me to find you somewhere (ahem) cool to do it next. There’s no need to pack a parka to enjoy expedition cruising. Head for the Galapagos or Costa Rica, or sail down the Pacific coast of South America where tropical forests, remote beaches, and dramatic fjords await. Many itineraries stretch over two weeks, giving travelers the chance to truly explore lesser-visited coastlines and cultures. In the Galapagos, look for ships with naturalists onboard—and don’t hesitate to bring the kids. It’s one of the most unforgettable (and educational) adventures out there. Expedition ships are one of the best ways to explore Alaska, the Inside Passage, and Baja California. Smaller ships mean fewer crowds and more time in remote bays and quiet coves—ideal for spotting whales, seabirds, and wild coastal landscapes. You might paddle a sea kayak through tranquil waters or join Indigenous-led tours in the lush rainforests of Haida Gwaii. One of the most spectacular—and least visited—coastlines in the world, the Kimberley in Western Australia is tailor-made for expedition cruising. Towering red cliffs, ancient Aboriginal rock art, saltwater crocodiles, and thundering waterfalls set the stage for adventure. True North Adventure Cruises offers access to it all, with a shallow-draft vessel that can get up close to the action and optional helicopter flights for a bird’s-eye view. Ready to start planning your expedition?
WHY NOCTOURISM MIGHT BE MY NEW OBSESSION: THE RISE OF AFTER-DARK TRAVELThere’s a new trend lighting up the world of experiential travel—literally. It’s called noctourism, and it’s about the thrill of exploring the wild, the mysterious, and the magical side of our planet once the sun dips below the horizon. For intrepid travelers who crave the extraordinary, noctourism is an invitation to see the world from a completely different perspective—one that’s quieter, more intimate, and often more awe-inspiring. From witnessing wildlife that only stirs after dark to marveling at celestial displays far from light pollution, nighttime is the right time to go exploring. What is Noctourism? Noctourism—or nighttime tourism—is travel that focuses on after-dark experiences. Think of night safaris, stargazing beneath desert skies, glowing bioluminescent bays, and cultural events that come alive under moonlight. These aren’t just novel experiences; they’re deeply immersive, often spiritual, and always unforgettable. Why Travel at Night? There’s something inherently primal and poetic about nighttime. Shadows stretch long, sounds grow sharper, and the usual pace of the world slows down. Traveling after dark taps into our sense of wonder, mystery, and discovery.
Plus, traveling at night can mean fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and more meaningful moments. Top Noctourism Experiences Around the World Night Walks in the Amazon Jungle, Peru & Brazil As the rainforest quiets from the heat of the day, a whole new world begins to stir. Guided nocturnal walks reveal glowing fungi, the calls of tree frogs and night birds, and the rustle of creatures you’ll never see during daylight hours. With the help of a sharp-eyed naturalist, the Amazon becomes a symphony of shadows and sound. Arctic Aurora Hunts, Canada to Scandinavia In the Arctic Circle—Norway, Finland, Iceland, and Canada’s Far North—aurora viewings are almost guaranteed. While waiting for the Northern Lights to dance, guests can enjoy traditional saunas, Sami storytelling, and fireside feasts. Starry Nights in Wadi Rum, Jordan Vast desert landscapes and zero light pollution make Jordan’s Wadi Rum a dream for stargazers. Bedouin guides lead nighttime treks and tell stories passed down through generations. Bioluminescent Waters, Caribbean & Hawaii Kayak through glowing plankton in Puerto Rico, San Juan, Panama, Belize or Florida’s Indian River Lagoon—or go night diving with manta rays off the coast of Kona, Hawaii. These are bucket-list-worthy, sensory-rich moments. Penguin Parade, Phillip Island, Australia Just after dusk, hundreds of little penguins waddle up the beach to nest. It’s both adorable and primal—a true display of nature’s rhythms. The African Bush, South Africa At lodges like Royal Malewane, night safaris offer the rare chance to see elusive predators, hear the haunting calls of nocturnal birds, and track the movements of animals living by the rhythm of the moon. Firefly Forests & Glowworm Caves, Japan & New Zealand In Japan, forests twinkle with fireflies during summer. In New Zealand’s Waipu Caves, glowworms create a celestial effect underground. Both are magical worlds tucked into the quiet of the night. Planning Your Own After-Dark Adventure If noctourism has sparked your curiosity, here are a few tips:
Explore the Wild. Stay up late. Travel Deeply.
Happy Travels! |
AuthorCindy Jorgenson, Owner and Travel Expert Archives
October 2025
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