Tag Archives: TTE

Turkey: mosques and hammams with teens, cruising by yacht, ballooning in Cappadocia

AMY EVERS | JUNE 15, 2025

Amy Evers with her daughter and son, on a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.

“I think the clouds in the sky made the sunrise that much more beautiful.” Photo: Traveler Amy Evers

Turkey, May 24-June 1, 2025
This trip was amazing. Everyone really should consider going to Turkey! Earl put together a wonderful trip for my kids and I. We had a decent amount of rain while we were there, but our incredible guides just changed things up on the fly to keep us as dry as possible. They also switched things up to avoid long lines as needed too. We ate incredible food, with great restaurant recommendations each night.

We visited many Mosques but surprisingly, my kids didn’t tire of them. Riza, our wonderful guide in Istanbul, kept things educational but fun too. The cruise on the Bosphorus was beautiful. The yacht was gorgeous and the weather even cooperated. Our experience at the Turkish Hammam was wonderful, thoroughly enjoyed by all 3 of us, even the 13 year old!

Riza felt like we had a lot to do in Istanbul so switched our cooking class to Cappadocia. This was a great decision. The cooking class was at a family’s house. It was as much a cultural experience as it was a learning experience. And the food was delicious! Having said all of that, I think the highlight of the trip was the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia. I was a little worried it would get canceled because of the weather but it didn’t, and I think the clouds in the sky made the sunrise that much more beautiful. It was breathtaking! Wow!

Read more reviews of Earl. Or request your own trip.

Contact Earl

Croatia & Slovenia: seaside Rovinj, Lake Bled, Motovun, Plitvice National Park, Dubrovnik, Hvar

MARCY FIELDS | JUNE 14, 2025

Marcy Fields having a picnic in Istria region.

The picnic in Istria, with food provided from their guide’s own farm, was “beyond imagination.”

From the moment we stepped off the plane in Ljubljana, our trip went perfectly as planned. No glitches, delays or issues checking into our rooms. Tea, who met us at the airport, set the tone for what we could expect on this trip. Everyone we encountered, whether the tour guide or the driver, could not have been more pleasant and full of pride for their respective countries.

We connected instantly with our guide/driver, Miro, on our trip to Lake Bled in Slovenia, and were so pleased he was our driver the next day to Rovinj. We were sad to see him go. Rovinj was a beautiful waterfront town and we loved how it’s a bit off the beaten path. Not too crowded but with many things to do and see. Our day trip to Motovun was a true highlight of our trip. Maslinka, our tour guide, was so interesting and shared so much history about the Istria region. The picnic she provided with food from her farm was beyond imagination. It felt like we were in a movie. Plitvice National Park was also amazing and we were so glad it was included in our itinerary.

When we got to Hvar, it was next level. The water was like nothing we’d seen before. It felt like each place we visited got a little bit better. We enjoyed the outdoor restaurants and Pakleni Islands as well while there. While a bit crowded, we very much enjoyed Dubrovnik and a highlight of our stay there was lunch at the Panorama Restaurant on top of Mt Srd. The views were stunning and it was absolutely heavenly there. Our tour of the walled city with Vlaho was better than we expected. What a knowledgeable and interesting young man.

I have to say in closing Martina, our travel representative, made our trip. She could not have been more responsive and also on top of everything before we arrived somewhere. It was such a wonderful touch meeting her in person in Dubrovnik. I could go on and on but I think it’s evident we had a fabulous trip! Thank you.

Read more reviews of Jay. Or request your own trip.

Contact Jay

Japan: sake tasting, onsen bathing, tea with a Buddhist monk, private knife-making workshop

DAVID KINSLER | JUNE 13, 2025

David Kinsler at a private knife-making workshop in Japan.

In Echizen, David Kinsler had private knife- and paper-making experiences.

Our May trip to Japan, arranged by Andrea and seamlessly supported by his exceptional assistant Dewi, exceeded every expectation. From the moment we landed to our final departure, every detail was meticulously crafted for a truly immersive, luxurious, and stress-free experience.

In Tokyo, we were treated to a sumo wrestling experience, followed by a visit to the Imperial Palace and a fascinating walk through the bustling fish market. One day, we enjoyed a private tempura-making workshop—a definite highlight. After Tokyo, we continued on to Kaga Onsen, where we stayed at a fabulous ryokan. During our time there, we enjoyed a sake tasting and visited an artisan porcelain maker. From Kaga, we traveled to Echizen, where we experienced the serenity of a Buddhist temple, took part in a private knife-making experience, and learned the craft of traditional papermaking.

At Lake Biwa, we stayed at a fabulous resort and were treated to our WOW Moment: a peaceful boat ride along the canals, capped off with a charcoal dinner cooked specifically for us—a truly unforgettable evening.

Our journey concluded in Kyoto, where we had a meaningful tea ceremony with a Buddhist monk and an unforgettable private geisha dinner.

We’ve traveled extensively and have used many of Wendy Perrin’s WOW List recommendations—but Andrea and Dewi stand out above them all. Andrea’s deep cultural insight, impeccable taste, and thoughtful curation turned each day into something extraordinary. His ability to blend authenticity with comfort is rare and unforgettable.

Dewi was equally outstanding—always one step ahead, incredibly responsive, and quietly ensuring everything ran perfectly. Her warmth and professionalism made a real difference throughout the trip.

This journey was in a class of its own. Andrea and Demi delivered not just a vacation, but a true experience of Japan. We are already looking forward to planning our next adventure with them.

Read more reviews of Andrea. Or request your own trip.

Norway: dining with farmers, visiting Fjord country & a private island with its explorer-owner

SUSAN FREEMAN | JUNE 12, 2025

Susan Freeman on the fjord swing at Trandal.

On a wing and a prayer, Norwegian wind in her hair—Susan Freeman soars on the fjord swing at Trandal.

We just returned from a 25-day trip to Scandinavia planned by Torunn. We were thrilled with her company’s recommendations, including suggested itinerary, length of time in each place and hotel recommendations. This was the longest time we had ever been away, and yet it felt so well-paced that we weren’t exhausted or burned out as we often are, especially with shorter trips. In my opinion, Norway is THE most beautiful country on earth. It simply must be experienced for travelers who want beauty of nature, few people, and a place where everything works!

We spent 5 nights in Oslo, 2 in Bergen, and the rest of the time in the gorgeous Fjord country, ending with stays just north of the Arctic Circle. We e-biked to an 11th-century Stave Church on the Romantic Road, visited an artisanal brown cheese maker, had dinner with a farmer and his wife in their summer pasture cabin high above the fjords, fished, sea kayaked, and of course hiked. The guides were excellent, with one exception.

The most unusual or unique part of the trip was visiting a former trading lodge in Arctic Circle on private island owned and run by the first Norwegian woman to summit Everest, as well as the highest mountains on all 7 continents. We loved meeting her and learning from her, as well as the other guests.

The combination of cities at the front end and nature for the rest of the trip worked extremely well for us. Innkeepers were all very hospitable, kind, and generous. Torunn’s team uses an app and everything for your trip is loaded into it, which once I got the hang of it, was fantastic; everything at my fingertips all the time. If you are considering a trip to Scandinavia, I highly recommend Torunn with the highest recommendation. It was one of our all-time favorite trips anywhere in the world!

Read more reviews of Torunn. Or request your own trip.

Contact Torunn

Japan: meditating with spiritual guides, meeting artisans & families, night in a Naoshima museum

BEATRICE BANU | JUNE 9, 2025

Beatrice Banu wearing a hand-painted kimono in Kanazawa, Japan.

Traveler Beatrice Banu donned a kimono hand-painted by the master’s son. “It was quite an experience being put into a kimono.”

I used Andrea and his talented team to plan my trip to Japan from May to early June, 2025. This was my first experience working with an agent on all details of a solo trip to Japan, a belated retirement present to myself. “My team” really pushed to find out what I wanted and needed. Be sure you are as specific as possible about what you want and do not want. The more they know the better they can meet your expectations. Even do a little research in advance. I did not. Despite the fact that I was not clear about certain things, they did a fabulous job. I was able to avoid certain pitfalls in traveling to and around Japan because my team provided detailed practical information in advance and uploaded an itinerary to an app, which could be updated as things changed on the ground. I also had group of Guardian Angels on call if I needed help or had questions. Travel from place to place was meticulously timed out. The only glitches were my getting lost at various train stations, which can be fun since the stations are more like food/shopping malls.

The best thing the agents provided were fantastic guides, people with varied experiences that were matched to my interests. Long conversations about life in Japan were as valuable to my understanding the culture a little better as visiting historic sites. I am interested in spirituality, especially in Shintoism, unique to Japan, and the special bond between Buddhism and Shintoism in Japan. I had one guide who was a Shingon monk and another who was a devoted practitioner of Shintoism. As a special experience, the agency organized a special interview with a Buddhist monk. We talked through the guide for an hour, meditated, and then he performed the tea ceremony in which I participated as well. Amazing.

Since the material culture, fashion and architecture and design are also interests, I was able to visit with 2 master artisans and their families, an 88-year-old silk kimono painter, his son and daughter-in-law, all in the business. In Kanazawa, the silk painter had laid out one of their kimonos for me to try. This one had been hand-painted in an iris motif by the son of the master. It was quite an experience being put into a kimono. Also, I spent time with an 80+ inkstone maker and his family. It was such an honor to listen to how they pursued the perfection of their crafts. One of the most unique features of the trip was staying in the Benesse Museum Hotel on Naoshima. As a hotel guest you get to wander the museum after closing and before opening. I was thrilled, my own “Night in the Museum.” I loved the art islands. In addition, one of my guides in Tokyo who knew Japanese fashion, my passion, acquainted me with several second-hand stores because I mentioned that interest to the planners. I brought back several garments from these shops!

This was an intricate trip which I could not have done on my own. The agents were invaluable. I would have experienced half of what I did without the guides and the travel arrangements all planned out. My trip, without the agents, would have been good but not extraordinary. That’s why they are called “WOW.”

Read more reviews of Andrea. Or request your own trip.

Norway: dogsledding, fjord manor house, wood-burning sauna, beer-paired Viking meal

CHOQUETTE GUINEY | JUNE 5, 2025

The port village of Flam is surrounded by mountains at the innermost bank of the Aurlandsfjord. Photo: Traveler Choquette Guiney

We visited many areas and in each one Torunn arranged local guides/hosts that were interesting, passionate, and a joy to spend time with. A few of our favorite activities include having an Oslo tour guide; visiting a Sami reindeer herder (reindeer racing and fantastic stories!); dog sledding (with Iditarod musher); fine dining prepared with local ingredients and in a remote setting (say yes to the wine pairing!); wood-burning sauna; cooking education and hands-on class (fun even for those who enjoy food but rarely cook); train travel (the views); Viking dinner (get the 5 course meal paired with beer); fjord cruise (stunning scenery!) and baking lefse, a Norwegian treat, at a family-run farm (beautiful setting and lively conversation with locals!). By not being overscheduled we had time to hike, kicksled, explore, relax and simply enjoy our time together (aka Norwegian kos).

Special thanks to Roger (our full day guide in the far north) for his Finnmark insights and personal stories as well as his thoughtfulness and suggestions. And to Trine—my mom was able to relax and enjoy the dog sledding experience traveling with you. That would not have been the case if she had been traveling with me or my sister! Shout out to Johnny who is not only an amazing chef but also owner of a fantastic record collection.

The accommodations Torunn picked were perfect for us and enhanced our experience. We enjoyed our stay at elegant hotels in city centers, a historic manor house on a fjord (so peaceful in the winter) and the cabins in the far north. Yes, we saw the northern lights just outside our cabin 4 of the 5 nights!

Read more reviews of Torunn. Or request your own trip.

Contact Torunn

Nova Scotia: walk through maritime history, private ship tour with captain, lobster encounter

BEV CAMERON | JUNE 4, 2025

Traveler Beverly Cameron’s grandson holding a huge lobster.

Traveler Beverly Cameron’s grandson was able to hold a massive lobster. Photo: Bev Cameron

My grandson Wyatt and I have just completed the arranged part of a trip to Nova Scotia that Jill planned for us. My grandson is 10 years old and I’m 79 years old. This was a special one-on-one trip.

Jill did a fantastic job of planning activities for a 10-year-old boy and having the tour operators give him special attention. We’ve both had a great time.

All of the events were great fun but likely most special was Jill arranging through a friend of hers to have the Captain of the Bluenose give us a private tour at a time when the ship was not open to the public. The Bluenose is special in Nova Scotian and Canadian history as a very fast fishing and racing ship. It’s even pictured on the back of the Canadian dime.

We had private tours of the Maritime Museum and Pier 21, the historic immigration entry point into Canada for people coming to start new lives, a harbor tour, a ghost walk, a tour of Oak Island by a man who is a diver on the documentary TV show, and a great driver/guide for a day and a half of touring to Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, Malone Bay and Chester. Our guide even took us to a small lobster store where Wyatt was able to hold several live lobsters, including a massive 9 pounder who is going back into the sea at the end of the season.

Jill did a great job. Thanks for having her on your WOW List.

Read more reviews of Jill. Or request your own trip.

Contact Jill

Africa: Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Franschhoek vineyards, Botswana safaris

LYNN HERRICK | JUNE 2, 2025

Two lions seen during a safari in Botswana.

“The animals exceed all expectations! We saw all the animals on our wish list and more.” Photo: Traveler Lynn Herrick.

The perfect trip. We had been talking about visiting Africa, our last continent, for years, and I am so glad we planned our trip with Cherri. The entire process was fabulous from the first email. Cherri asked a lot of questions that helped her make suggestions and guide us toward an unforgettable trip. We also appreciated the paperwork, the app, and all the details that her company provided to make sure we were fully prepared for our journey.

We started in Cape Town at the not-to-be-missed Silo Hotel and wrapped up 16 days later at the Thorntree Lodge in Zambia near Victoria Falls. In between, we had fantastic guides (shout out to Chantell who was with us for 2 full days in Cape Town), rode in small planes and helicopters, visited Franschhoek for wine tasting, and 2 different campsites in Botswana for Safari. The entire trip still feels like a dream. Everyone should find an opportunity to visit Africa. I loved that we experienced three different countries on our trip. The history and people of each country were different and so interesting.

The animals exceed all expectations! We saw all the animals on our wish list and more. Our campsites were all different and I appreciated the order in which Cheri scheduled things… from the more “rustic” to the more modern. The food was amazing everywhere we went. We felt like we were at each site for just the right amount of time and really would not have changed anything in our trip. There is no way I would schedule a trip like this without an expert, and especially an expert that really listened to our likes and dislikes and thoughtfully put together an unforgettable experience.

Read more reviews of Cherri. Or request your own trip.

Contact Cherri

Japan: hiking between the Kiso Valley post towns, hitting a baseball game and a Maid Cafe

SAMANTHA SQUIRES | JUNE 1, 2025

Samantha and family: “On the days we had to ourselves, we fell into nooks and crannies we hardly expected.”

Tokyo -> Kanazawa -> Kyoto -> Mt. Koya -> Kiso Valley -> Tokyo
Our trip to Japan was amazing. Each day was better than the next, which is really hard to believe, but it was.

Months ago, when we thought about going to Japan, we felt overwhelmed by the logistics of researching what we wanted to do and booking it. That’s why we turned to a travel planner from Wendy Perrin’s WOW List. If we were going to invest in what for us was a trip of a lifetime, we wanted to ensure that those expectations were met. And they were. They exceeded anything we could have imagined.

We met with Andrea and his team a few months before our desired trip date. Going to Japan is hard to do frugally, but he worked with us to find the best dates that allowed for our budget, and we discovered May to be an ideal time. It’s after the peak of March and April, but the weather is still pleasant and there were plenty of flowers to see, like azaleas, wisteria and irises. Andrea loves what he does, and loves Japan, so it was easy to tell him about our wants and wishes for the trip because he was excited about them, too. Could we see a baseball game in Tokyo? Yes. How about going to a quirky Maid Cafe? One that’s family friendly? Also yes.

It was important to us to learn about the history and culture of the country, and he worked up an itinerary that was ambitious but not overwhelming. He set us up with multiple guides and each and every one was fascinating and fun and such an expert about their area. We learned so much from them. Andrea also made the trip feel balanced. On the days we had to ourselves, we fell into nooks and crannies we hardly expected and found incredible places to eat this way.

Since we’ve come home everyone’s been asking, What was the highlight of the trip? This is so hard to answer! A monastery in Mt. Koya was definitely one. It’s a beautiful and serene place, the seat of Japanese Buddhism, and we just loved being there. This was something we would never have found on our own, or known to even look for were it not for Andrea telling us about it. We also went hiking in Kiso Valley, stopping in a few post towns along the way. This is where samurai and merchants walked back and forth between Kyoto and Tokyo. Again, we’d never have known about this without Andrea’s knowledge. We stayed in a traditional Ryokan and just loved every minute of it.

We left Japan buoyed by a sense of having been on a journey in the truest sense. We’re already saving to go back again. It’s a magical place.

Read more reviews of Andrea. Or request your own trip.

Contact Patricia and Rachael

Norway: private fjord cruise, deep-sea fishing, fishing villages and dramatic mountains

DEBORAH WENTE | MAY 30, 2025

John Wente posing with a fish during deep-sea fishing in Nusfjord, Norway.

John Wente lands a big one while deep-sea fishing in Nusfjord. Photo: Traveler Deborah Wente

We had a wonderful trip to Norway! It is such a big country with so many options, and we were thrilled with the choices suggested by Torunn and her team. We spent one night in Bergen, which suited us perfectly. It was fun to see Bryggen and do a little souvenir shopping. The next morning we picked up a rental car and drove a couple of hours to Utne on the Hardangerfjord. The village has a population of about 200, we stayed in a house on a cider farm overlooking the fjord. Our time in Hardangerfjord was a perfect blend of activity and time to enjoy the view of the fjord from our rental. We ate in most evenings, very enjoyable after an active day. We enjoyed a private fjord cruise, a hike up to a beautiful viewpoint and a tour of a cider farm. I can still picture the innumerable colors of green.

We then returned to Bergen and flew up to the Lofoten Islands. What a contrast! Fishing villages, dramatic mountains dropping down to the sea, and a taste of life in the islands. I really appreciate the recommendation to stay in two locations, Reine and Nusfjord. They were only an hour apart, but gave us a chance to explore different areas without a lot of driving. We explored on our own, hiked with a guide, and went deep sea fishing. That was so much more fun than expected!

On our last night, we were surprised with our WOW Moment, one of the best ever. We were told to meet at 10pm when we suited up in inflatable insulated suits, climbed into a rigid inflatable boat and straddled our seats. The captain (and GM of the resort) took us north up the coast cruising at about 30 knots. We stopped near a cave where remains of people and cod have been found from 6000 years ago! Then we pulled into a harbor and sampled some Norwegian whiskey. A fun adventure!

I really appreciate the planning that allowed us to explore Norway, talk to people, and stay away from crowds. We were a couple of weeks before the season started in the Lofoten Islands and were very thankful to not be dealing with the traffic and crowds.

Read more reviews of Torunn. Or request your own trip.

Contact Torunn

Iceland: waterfalls, history, Thingvellir National Park, glacial hiking at Sólheimajökull

SUSAN TOBERT | MAY 29, 2025

Daren and Sue Tobert on the Sólheimajökull glacial tongue after a hike.

Daren and Sue Tobert on the Sólheimajökull glacial tongue after a three-hour hike.

After a two week vacation in Europe we did a six day stopover in Iceland on our way home. We worked with Mads in Denmark. Mads arranged a fantastic tour of Reykjavik, and the west and south areas of the island for us. We had a ton of fun exploring the waterfalls, beaches, caves and glaciers. The accommodations at the Black Pearl, Hotel Budir and Hotel Ranga were top notch. We had so many wonderfully surprising experiences as we immersed ourselves in the history, culture and landscape of the island we couldn’t help but fall in love with Iceland. It is on our list to return to soon.

Some highlights included a self-guided driving tour around Snaefellsnes Peninsula, exploring the rift valley at Thingvellir National Park, and sampling a variety of foods with our knowledgeable guide, Nori. Who knew Rye Bread ice cream was a real thing? Our WOW came while hiking on the glacial tongue at Sólheimajökull in the south. The three-hour hike included peeking over the edges of crevasses and glacial moulins where meltwater pours in making deep shafts. We remain humbled and in awe of the power of nature in Iceland!

Read more reviews of Mads. Or request your own trip.

Contact Mads

Morocco: ballooning over Atlas Mountains, tea with a Berber family, Volubilis, medina by sidecar

MOLLY O’NEILL-EMMI | MAY 28, 2025

Molly and her husband Tom on a sunset ATV ride through the Sahara Desert.

Our April trip to Morocco was captivating, filled with vibrant culture, rich history, and memorable experiences. We were fortunate to have a fantastic guide, Widad, who was personable, knowledgeable, and flexible. Her extensive insights into the history, culture, architecture, music and religion of Morocco enriched our understanding and appreciation of this fascinating country. Our driver, Aziz, was equally outstanding—ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient transport, thereby making every part of our travel seamless and stress-free. Both Widad and Aziz were passionate, authentic ambassadors of their beloved country. We were so grateful that they were with us for the duration of the trip, as they significantly enhanced our experience.

One of the highlights of our trip was the valuable and meaningful interaction with the locals. Whether engaging in conversations at bustling markets, sharing stories over cups of mint tea and traditional Moroccan sweets, dining with a family in their Riad, learning to prepare mint tea with a Berber family in their village home in the High Atlas Mountains, or receiving warm reactions and assistance as we attempted to speak Darija, Arabic, and Tamazight, all of those moments were truly memorable.

Our enjoyment of the country was further enhanced by riding ATVs across the ochre dunes of the Sahara at sunset; watching the sunrise and savoring the calmness and serenity of the vast desert; experiencing the thrill of a hot air balloon ride while admiring the majestic views of the Moroccan countryside and High Atlas mountains; exploring the Roman ruins of Volubilis; riding through the Marrakech medina and palm groves in a motorcycle sidecar; and exploring the intricate pathways of the medinas.

We stayed in beautiful riads and boutique hotels that exuded charm and offered exceptional service. The ambiance was nothing short of magical, with thoughtfully designed interiors that created a warm and inviting atmosphere. Most notable were Dar Ahlam and Kasbah Tamadot, where we savored every moment and were sad to leave.

The culinary aspect of our trip was nothing short of excellent and diverse. We especially loved our cooking class, which included shopping for ingredients in the souk while sampling food items along the way. It was a vibrant and colorful experience, during which I discovered that orange blossom water is my new favorite baking ingredient! Additionally, our evening food tour of the Fez medina was a fun, memorable exploration of flavors and traditions.

Our trip to Morocco was a captivating journey that was enriched by our guide Widad and driver Aziz. Engaging with locals, exploring villages and medinas, and learning about various Moroccan traditions created meaningful moments. Staying in beautiful riads and enjoying diverse culinary experiences contributed to unforgettable memories in Morocco.

Read more reviews of Hicham. Or request your own trip.

Contact Hicham

Balkans: “phenomenal” guides in Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro

JEANNIE MULLEN | MAY 26, 2025

Jeannie Mullen and Chef Ivana on the narrow “Let Me Pass Street” in Old Town Split, Croatia.

Jeannie and Chef Ivana on their way from market to private cooking class on narrow “Let Me Pass Street” in Old Town Split.

It is really difficult to condense a 28-day, 5-country trip into a review that does justice to the incredibly detailed work that went into my recent solo trip to the Balkans. I initiated trip planning with Greg, whose team curated a phenomenal trip to Russia for me in the days immediately after the country opened in the on again/off again days of Covid. After hearing my level of interest in the Balkan Region, Greg referred me to Ala and Arina for next level planning. Ala and Arina listened attentively, offered a lot of variety to choose from, provided advice and counsel when necessary, and followed through on every single detail. Both were a joy to work with.

The trip included travel to five of the six Balkan countries formerly known as Yugoslavia… Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro (Macedonia is the sixth). While a complicated and extensive political and religious history connects these countries, each had its own fascinating identity, culture and people. My local guides were phenomenal, most having been born and raised in each city/town that I toured, which made their storytelling all the more rich with unique detail. Milan, my guide in Belgrade, was also a professor of art history at the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts as well as an opera singer and an actor. He had just published a book which he graciously signed and gifted to me.

Highlights from each country…

Slovenia… Old Town Ljubljana was a delightful mix of history, art, architecture, nightlife and shopping… I could plan a trip there this fall and do ALL of my Christmas shopping… A day trip to picturesque and historic Lake Bled provided a great contrast.

Croatia… a fascinating combination of food and cultures (depending upon which border we were close to)… truffle hunting with a cute young brother and sister in Prodani, casual strolls through picturesque historic walled towns in the mountains of Istria, fresh oysters and mussels prepared by a local farmer in Ston ( just outside of Dubrovnik), a stunning flight along the Adriatic coastline from Istria to Dalmatia, waterfront dining in harbors tucked away among the Pakleni Islands, a private cooking class in Split, and a sunset boat ride accompanied by dolphins off the coast of Rovinj.

Serbia… in Belgrade a deep dive into the history of Yugoslavia and Tito’s regime from a scholar’s perspective… personal time with a master violin maker and local “naive” artists and their galleries in Kovacica… and shopping at a local grocery store for the favorite foods Serbs like to eat.

Bosnia and Herzegovina… my biggest and most pleasant surprise of the trip (Belgrade came in a close second)… Sarajevo was a fascinating city with something to see and learn about around every corner. My local guide, Muhammad, was instrumental in describing a very complicated history, but also showing me the very vibrant multicultural atmosphere that it is now his adopted city.

Montenegro… a coastline and atmosphere that consistently makes you think you are on a movie set… Kotor, Perast, and Herzeg Novi… a tour by boat of the hidden submarine tunnels from WWI, and a day trip up the historic Serpentine Road (22 switchbacks that follow the old caravan route that Roman traders used) to the Old Royal Capital of Cetinje.

I would be remiss if I didn’t say a word about the very personal attention that Arina paid both leading up to my departure and also as my trip progressed in real time. A few weeks before my departure I developed some concerns about news that I was reading about political unrest in Bosnia and Serbia. Arina, who lives in Belgrade, was able to assure me that everything remained very peaceful. I’m really pleased that I followed her advice because I didn’t find anything remotely similar “on the ground” to what I was reading in the international press. Arina also arranged many lovely personal touches during my travels and helped me understand occasionally unique local logistics.

Lastly, the timing of my trip overlapped with travel plans that Greg had in Belgrade and that Arina had in Ljubljana and Dubrovnik. As a result, I was able to meet both of them personally, which was an extra treat.

Read more reviews of Ala. Or request your own trip.

Contact Ala

Japan: from Alps to arts with a private cooking class, kintsugi workshop, and “deeply moving” meditation session

MAUREEN FERRARI | MAY 26, 2025

Maureen and John Ferrari with their guide Emiko at the train station in Japan.

Maureen and John Ferrari bid goodbye to their guide Emiko before boarding Shinkansen Nozomi back to Tokyo.

Unforgettable Journey Through Japan – Thanks to Wendy Perrin, Scott Gilman, and Our Wonderful Guide Emiko

I’ve used Wendy Perrin’s recommendations for years—Bhutan, Myanmar, Chile, Oman, to name a few—and each trip has been extraordinary. This year, my husband John and I decided to travel to Japan, and once again, Wendy did not disappoint. One of her top suggestions was Japan expert Scott Gilman, and working with him was a true pleasure.

Scott took the time to understand our needs and interests—two active 69- and 71-year-olds who love to explore, learn about local culture, and delve into a country’s history. He crafted a detailed, thoughtful itinerary and introduced us to our fabulous guide, Emiko, with whom we instantly connected. Her energy, deep knowledge, and warm personality made her an ideal companion for our two-week adventure.

We began in Tokyo on May 8, staying at the elegant Mandarin Oriental, where the service was impeccable. Emiko guided us through the Tsukiji Outer Market, Hamarikyu Garden, Asakusa, Kappabashi-dori, and the Imperial Palace grounds, capping the day with an unforgettable dinner at Sushi Kidoguchi. One of our Tokyo highlights was meeting architect Michel van Acre in Omotesando to learn about the city’s stunning contemporary architecture—fascinating and highly recommended! We also took a private cooking class with Kyoko Hattori, who was delightful and generously shared recipes and goodies to bring home.

From there, we journeyed through the Japanese Alps to Matsumoto, where we visited the 400-year-old Matsumoto Castle and stayed at the serene Myojinkan Ryokan, complete with a private onsen. We explored the beautiful dam nearby and continued on to Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa, soaking up the charm of historical quarters, vibrant markets, and heritage houses along the way.

In Kyoto, we were awed by Kiyomizudera, Gion, and the Kennin-ji Zen Temple. A private Zen meditation session with a Buddhist priest and father of two was deeply moving. Other Kyoto highlights included the moss garden at Gio-ji Temple, the bamboo groves of Arashiyama, and a hands-on kintsugi workshop with Koishihara-san, a master artisan—especially meaningful to me as a ceramist.

Our day trip to Nara was magical. Seeing the freely roaming deer in Nara Park, revered as Shinto messengers, was a beautiful contrast to how we view deer back home in New York. The visit to Todai-ji Temple, with its enormous Buddha and the architectural grandeur of the building, was awe-inspiring. We also met Noguchi-san, a fifth-generation gold leaf artisan, whose artistry, personality, and warm family left a lasting impression.

As if the trip couldn’t get better, we then visited Naoshima, where art and nature blend seamlessly. Staying at Benesse House, located within the museum, was a dream. We toured Chichu Art Museum, Lee Ufan Museum, and Valley Gallery by Tadao Ando. On Teshima Island, the Teshima Art Museum was another major highlight, made even more memorable by the atmospheric fog and a dramatic race to beat the canceled ferries—magically solved by Emiko, who summoned a private water taxi to get us safely back.

Our final days brought us to Kurashiki, known as the “Venice of Japan,” and a stay in a charming central ryokan. We ended the journey with a visit to Korakuen Garden, where we were lucky enough to see a bride and groom in traditional wedding attire—such a special moment. Then it was back to Tokyo and onward to New York, our hearts and bags full of unforgettable memories.

This trip would not have been possible without Scott’s expert planning and Emiko’s flawless execution. Her grace, insight, and attention to detail brought every moment to life.

Our only complaint? We ate way too much! (But oh, was it worth it!)

Read more reviews of Scott. Or request your own trip.

Contact Scott

Puglia: visiting cheese and gelato-makers, working with a sculptor, staying in masserias

PAULA KRAMER | MAY 23, 2025

Jeff Weiss learning sculpture from an artist in Puglia, Italy.

Jeff Weiss spent an afternoon learning from a renowned sculptor in his home atelier. Photo: Paula Kramer

For two weeks this April 2025 we had the incredible privilege of traveling through Puglia – our first time in the region, but not our last – thanks to the expert planning of Antonello and Valeria. From our initial meeting, they were incredibly helpful, despite the fact that we didn’t give them a whole lot of lead time. Mindful of the timeframe, they carefully listened to our interests and preferences, and then leveraged their substantial network to create a bespoke itinerary that reflected them, but also included experiences that we would not have known to ask for and that wound up elevating our trip beyond our wildest dreams.

We stayed in an array of wonderful hotels and masserias – fabulous experiences unto themselves – and were educated by outstanding guides. We chose to do our own driving for 90% of the trip, and even here the team was so helpful, electronically sharing target destinations and parking facilities which enabled us to go from points A to B with confidence, independence and the least amount of stress. Except for driving in Naples (NOT for the faint of heart), driving through Italy, especially Puglia, at springtime is a feast for the senses and we encourage those willing to do so to give it a try. If not, the planners can easily provide drivers, when needed.

My husband and I are seasoned, low maintenance travelers (3-6 trips per year); he excels at research, and finding travel companies with perspectives that align with ours, and the credentials to help us plan incredible journeys. This was our first trip using Wendy Perrin and her WOW List, which led us to this team; both organizations distinguished themselves in the best of ways. This was best reflected in three value-added factors provided by the company.

First, attention to detail. They created a trip that was truly a reflection of us, our interests, and abilities, but they went the extra mile and anticipated our needs such that every detail was covered. After our very first day we realized that working through Wendy Perrin and her WOW List were great decisions. Second, our planners provided SUPERLATIVE guides – individuals truly dedicated to their work, and deeply thoughtful and knowledgeable about their areas of expertise and the experience they can offer the tourists they work with. Their knowledge, personal connections, insights and enthusiasm were truly transformative in our understanding of the places and people we were visiting. But the bonus was that they were all incredibly delightful to be with, which made them feel more like friends than people doing their job. We also liked the fact that in the majority of places we had our guides for at least two days each.

Last, but by no means least, the third and most remarkable factor that transformed our trip into something unique and superlative was the unique set of experiences planned by our team. Mind you, every single day of this trip had a WOW factor – whether it was visits to Pompeii and Herculaneum, our cave-turned-hotel in Matera (Sextantio), or our stays at delightful masserias in Salento. But beyond that, having the chance to sample the delights of a renowned cheesemaker, learn from the 3rd generation owners of a family-owned flour mill, get expert insights into the complexities of olive oil, or to sample gelato with a young woman who is combining innovation with tradition as she expands the gelato business started by her grandfather – these are culinary experiences we could only encounter thanks to our team’s deep understanding of and connection with the hidden gems of Puglia. Trust me…you are not going to find these on your own.

If all this wasn’t enough, we spent an afternoon in the home/atelier of a renowned sculptor, and another afternoon with a couple that makes jewelry. I confess that when I first read our itinerary I thought these sounded weird – neither my husband or I would become the next Michaelangelo or make jewelry anytime in the near future, so why take time to do this? I could not have been more wrong! These artists were so genuinely interested in sharing their craft, their food, and their kindness. We were besotted by these one-of-a-kind experiences, making friends and actual art along the way. We even got to visit the private home of a potter who showed us the ancient and Byzantine relics, and the Byzantine chapel that he discovered on his property during renovation.

We could not be more grateful to Wendy Perrin and especially to our planners for thoughtfully crafting an incredible and memorable sojourn through Southern Italy. We can’t wait to use them again for our return trip!

Read more reviews of Antonello. Or request your own trip.

Contact Antonello

Peru: Machu Picchu, fly fishing, Hiram Bingham train, “inventive” Incan cuisine

LYNNE WILLETT | MAY 16, 2025

Lynne Willett and her husband at Machu Picchu.

Lynne Willett and her husband spent a “flawless” week in Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

We just returned from a 2 week tour of Peru planned by Mark on Marisol’s team. Five stars are definitely not enough! Mark listened and crafted a trip including dinner reservations at the best restaurants in the world. From incredible guides to personalized special moments we could not have asked for more. Everything was flawless! We felt cared for and safe but best of all we learned so much, did so much, and came home feeling we had an incredible adventure.

A WOW Moment was included on this trip at MIL, a restaurant in the Sacred Valley (sister restaurant to Central, the 2023 best restaurant in the world). It was an 8-course lunch that was the most inventive, educational and delicious experience we’ve ever had. They are preserving Incan agriculture and technique paired with dishes and utensils that were pure art! This was a cherished experience we felt so fortunate to have!

We spent 3 days in Lima followed by a week in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, then a 4 day Amazon boat cruise. Excursions included fly fishing, horseback riding, the Hiram Bingham train, gourmet picnics, and personal BBQs and many archeological sites. Peru’s reputation as a foodie destination is well deserved! Our guides—shout out to Angie, Erika and Maria Antoinette—made our experience unforgettable. The lodging choices were exquisite. Most of all, in our early 70s, I felt so blessed to be able to see and fully experience this bucket list destination. Thanks to our guide, I did it all!

We travel a lot and this company is remarkable! I really liked their travel app too—all your travel info at your fingertips. We didn’t have a single problem. They made absolutely sure of that!!

Read more reviews of Marisol. Or request your own trip.

Contact Marisol

Loire Valley: biking among vineyards & chateaux, hot-air ballooning, light show at Blois

VANESSA LEW | MAY 15, 2025

Vanessa Lew riding a bike in the Loire region, in France.

Traveler Vanessa Lew particularly enjoyed riding through small towns in the Loire region.

This was my first trip solo was to Loire Valley for 4/12-4/17, and it was amazing!! My guides were informative, helpful and friendly!!

I had gone to a Chateau Chambord, Amboise, Clos Luce & Blois. I had gone to three vineyards, stayed at Fleur de Loire with a two-Michelin-Star restaurant on the grounds, which was delightful. I would highly recommend staying there.

Even though I had days planned and free I was able to add in a few things that seemed interesting, I highly recommend the hot air balloon excursion over the chateaux (I went during sunset but they also have sunrise) & the light show at Château of Blois—it was beautiful!!

One day me and my guide rode from Blois to Chambord and around Chambord which was about 30 miles that day, but lovely to ride through small towns in the Loire region.

I highly recommend this trip for anyone who doesn’t want the craziness of Paris but wants to see learn more about the history of France.

Read more reviews of Philip. Or request your own trip.

Contact Philip

New Zealand: a “bucket list” trip exploring islands, caves, and river kayaking

SARAH CHEN | MAY 14, 2025

Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.

Milford Sound lies deep within Fiordland National Park. Photo: Traveler Sarah Chen

Wow New Zealand! A bucket list trip and a 30th Wedding Anniversary celebration trip, it did not disappoint. We travelled March 15-30th, technically shoulder season, which helped keep expenses intact and summer visitors at a minimum. To start off we give credit to Gillian and her “play by play” team Catherina and Ellen. We couldn’t have asked for better people—Gillian listened carefully to what we wanted, and together a great trip was executed. With only 2 weeks to travel, we were able to explore both the North and South Island. Checking out the caves with blue glow worms, and Auckland on the North Island, ocean and river kayaking on the South Island in addition to hiking and exploring Milford Sound via helicopter—our adventures were fun.

The lodging was top notch and hosts were very personable (not to mention the fabulous food they prepared). Perhaps that was the best part—every person we met took an interest in us and shared their stories as though we had known each other already. While my husband and I are seasoned world travels, we chose to use Wendy Perrin and her team to support our high expectations for our dream vacation. It was fantastic and we are already planning another trip! Thanks for a memorable experience.

Read more reviews of Jean-Michel. Or request your own trip.

Contact Jean-Michel

South Korea: hiking Jeju Island, seeing Bulguksa temple, UNESCO sites & Seokguram Grotto

TONY FORD-HUTCHINSON | MAY 13, 2025

Travelers Tony and Jane at Yongmeori Coast on Jeju Island.

Travelers Jane and Anthony on Jeju Island: “a must for anyone travelling around the country.”

Having visited Seoul for business trips and given the fact that we have already visited most of the South East Asian Countries, we felt it was time to understand what South Korea was all about. Our trip planning started with a zoom call with Grant, where we outlined our wants and he came up with an itinerary that covered some of the highlights of the country.

Our trip started with an overnight in Seoul followed by four nights in the luxury JW Marriot Resort and Spa on Jeju Island. The island in our opinion is a must for anyone travelling around the country. Jeju Island could be described as the Florida of South Korea with its milder weather and distinct culture, although with its volcanic origins the beaches are more limited. Thus, it is full of “attractions” (think Teddy Bear museum) but we choose instead to focus on the natural beauty, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Seogsan Ichulbong Peak and the Jusangjeolli Cliffs. It is definitely an island for hiking, either along the coastal paths running past our resort, which we did, or mountain trails, which we did not. Another highlight for us was seeing and learning about the world famous Haenyeo women who have practiced free diving for sea food for generations.

Leaving Jeju Island we flew to Busan and were then driven to the historic city of Gyeongju, the original capital of the ancient Sila Kingdom. Highlights of the visit were the Bulguksa temple, including the Seokguram Grotto, and the ancient burial mounds in Tumuli Park, one of which you can enter and view how the tomb would have looked with all its gold artifacts. After two nights we were driven to Jeonju and our accommodation for the next two nights was in a historical Hanok House (very modernized with jacuzzi and plunge pool) right in the historical district where we could walk around all the streets and alleys, admire the historical buildings and graze through the restaurants, cafes and bars.

From Jeonju we were whisked by high-speed train back to Seoul to spend four nights at the Four Seasons Hotel in the heart of old Seoul. Seoul was largely destroyed during the Korean war and is a very modern city. However, the old palaces have been restored and the highlight is the Changdeokgung Palace together with its beautiful hidden gardens. Another highlight was the ancient walled city of Suwon, an hour’s drive from the center of Seoul. Getting around Seoul is easy, either on foot, using uber taxis or the ultra-modern subway system. There are multiple outstanding restaurants with extensive tasting menus and Michelin stars. We visited three, Jun-Sik, Solbam and Jueon. Top restaurants in Seoul are not easy to get in to and booking well in advance was a necessity. Korea is definitely worth a visit with its unique culture and food and for its mountainous terrain and its historical sights. Pity it is such a long flight from the USA!

This trip was arranged by WOW List candidate. Here’s what that means.

Ask Wendy

Belize: Mayan sites, manatee encounter, snorkeling the reef, cooking with a Garifuna family

BILL BUCHANAN AND GAIL SEVERN | MAY 12, 2025

Gail Severn cooking with locals in Belize.

Archaeological ruins and “warm encounters” with a local family were highlights of Belize.

When we encountered difficulties in trying to find special accommodations and convenient air connections for a spur of the moment trip for two to the Caribbean, we once again turned to Wendy Perrin for recommendations. Patricia and Rachael’s team were recommended and Belize was the suggested destination. Belize had not been on our radar, but after a brief call the prospects of warm Caribbean water coupled with Mayan archaeological sites won us over in a hurry. Patricia quickly came through with three recommended sites for our 12-day trip, and presented a choice of three possible accommodations at each site. After questions that further defined our tastes, they booked us and the trip was set.

After an easy connecting flight from Dallas to Belize City, we boarded an internal flight to Placencia. Upon arrival we were met by a representative from Francis Ford Coppola’s “Turtle Inn Resort” and whisked away to our seaside cabin under the palms. Our stop was well-planned to incorporate a private sailing charter with snorkeling on the barrier reef. Alas, high winds curtailed the open water sailing and snorkeling but Patricia and team pivoted us quickly to a sunset sail and manatee encounter. In addition, they arranged a three-hour “cultural experience” with a local indigenous Garifuna family. We cooked, laughed and even played some drums. The food, service and cabin at Turtle Inn were top notch.

After four nights we were picked up by Darryl, our driver and guide for the next four days, and driven to the Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge for a completely different experience in the highlands of Belize. While there Darryl guided us through the Caracol ruins, explored a cave, and joined a Mayan family for another round of cooking and fellowship. The Hidden Valley staff went out of their way to treat us to special culinary experiences. The ruins and the warm encounter with the local family were highlights of our trip.

After another four nights we boarded and internal flight to the northern part of the coast and a stay at the Matachica Resort on Ambergris Caye. It was here that we got to enjoy snorkeling on the reef in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and immersed ourselves in lazy days. And once again the accommodations were a beachfront casita that perfectly matched our desires.

This was our second trip with a Wendy Perrin WOW List planner, the first being for a trip to Croatia and Slovenia in 2023. And we are about to book a trip to Japan with a third advisor. It goes without saying that the ease of using these carefully vetted travel experts has been a rewarding experience and we do not hesitate to recommend using them.

Chile & Rapa Nui: hiking to see the Moai on Rapa Nui; viticulture and the secrets of the Maipo Valley

MICHAEL RUMA | MAY 11, 2025

“We will never forget the serene silence of the island and the mystery of how the Rapa Nui people carved and carried the innumerable statues.” Photo: Traveler Michael Ruma

Unique and Unforgettable: From Moai to Maipo

We flew to Santiago on February 16 and spent two nights in Chile’s capital city before traveling to Rapa Nui for a blissful week, topped off by a few days in the birthplace of Chilean viticulture before returning home on February 28, 2025.

Navigating the higher costs of airline travel today, I seized the opportunity to secure a reasonable fare to Santiago. We have been fortunate to spend time in Santiago, Patagonia, and Chile in prior travels. Ranked as one of the most remote places on earth, Rapa Nui seemed like a perfect place filled with wanderlust for our first trip of 2025. It also seemed to be a popular choice; as most hotels were fully booked, with luck, I reserved the last room at the Explora Lodge. With airfare and a place to stay, I began to wonder how we would fill in the gaps. With luck, Wendy and her trusted travel expert Maita, along with her itinerary planner Alexander, were quick to answer my questions. We set up time to visit on a virtual call to discuss ideas for yet another perfect itinerary to Chile. With the expertise and local knowledge of Maita and Alexander, they curated outstanding hotels, exceptional drivers, and marvelous guides.

Landing early in Santiago, we made our way through immigration and customs and were carefully chauffeured to the Singular Santiago Hotel. We dropped our bags and enjoyed a guided tour to reorient ourselves to the capital of Chile. Awakening the next day, we charted out a full day to explore the city. From a funicular ride, a trip to the top of the tallest building in South America, a stop for the best empanada in town, and dinner and wine tasting at our favorite, Boca Nariz, Santiago delighted our senses.

The following morning, we enjoyed the nearly 6-hour flight to Rapa Nui. Enjoying all the bustle of the big city but constantly drawn to the connections made in countryside spots, we grew excited to land in Rapa Nui, home to only 9,000 locals and the two daily flights of tourists. Picked up by Explora staff, we were rapidly transferred to the hotel and introduced to the daily program of the lodge. Before lunch, we joined a casual walk to explore the island countryside right out our back door.

Most visitors spend 2 or 3 nights, but we were grateful to have booked a solid week as there is plenty to discover on the island. We spent our days hiking each of the three extinct volcanoes, snorkeling and scuba diving, discovering caves and lava tubes, and dining on nearly everything offered by the lodge. The highlight of our time in Rapa Nui is exceedingly difficult to select as the Moai at sunrise and at the quarry were indescribable, the peak of the Bird Man hike had views of the bluest sea glimmering below the volcanic crater, and the clarity of the ocean water beneath the surface was beyond description. However, we will never forget the serene silence of the island and the mystery of how the Rapa Nui people carved and carried the innumerable statues all around the island.

After hiking many miles and visiting numerous archaeological sites, we left Rapa Nui with a new appreciation of the culture and countless memories. As we boarded our flight back to Santiago, we were reminded of yet another benefit of traveling under the guide of a trusted travel partner. Just prior to takeoff, Alexander sent me a text to inform us nearly the entire country of Chile was suffering a blackout. He assured me the airport was fully operational due to backup generators and our ride to our hotel in Pirque in the Maipo Valley was on their way and would be waiting for us despite the national power outage. Reassured with the seamless teamwork occurring behind the scenes, we enjoyed our departure and flight back to Santiago.

Arriving late to Hotel Las Majadas, we quickly checked in and fell to sleep. Awakening the next day, we explored the beautiful palatial grounds and enjoyed a great breakfast before heading out midday for wine tasting followed by a cocktail making class before dinner.

Recognizing our love of wine, the hotel concierge, Pablo Garcés, joined us at our late lunch, poured us numerous local wines, and made sure to share the secrets of the Maipo Valley and places we should not miss during our stay. One of these closely held secrets included Viña Don Melchor, which recently had their cabernet sauvignon named Wine Spectator’s 2024 Wine of the Year. While we had planned on a hike the last day of our trip, we queried Pablo to see if it was possible to schedule a tasting at Don Melchor and likely due to his relationship with the vineyard, we were able to book a private tasting the next day. Met by the vineyard manager at the large gates of Viña Don Melchor, we were guided through the private gardens, down to the cellar of Casillero del Diablo, and then into the former private home of Don Melchor. We were then seated in an exquisite, contemporary conference room for a private blending tasting to demonstrate how the winemaker creates the best-in-class cabernet.

It may be possible to purchase a plane ticket and book a hotel room. However, without the assistance of Wendy Perrin and her network, we as travelers would never be able to sew the patchwork of professional drivers and adept guides who created the exemplary experiences and special moments during our trip to the Moai and the Maipo.

Read more reviews of Maita. Or request your own trip.

Contact Maita

Australia: the sights and harbor of Sydney, the vast open spaces and wildlife on Kangaroo Island

JANE SHEAR | MAY 9, 2025

Two kangaroos hopping near Oceanview Eco Villas in Australia.

“Watching kangaroos and wallabies hopping through the vast open space around our villa was a unique bonus…”

My husband and I returned on February 19 from a two-week trip to Australia (February 4 to 19, 2025). I had long wanted to visit Australia, but was intimidated because the country is so large that I couldn’t envision a meaningful trip within only two weeks (the amount of time we can get away for a vacation). Wendy Perrin’s staff referred us to Stuart and his colleague Jacki. We had a planning session with Stuart, in which I told him that I wanted to start in Sydney and then see beautiful nature and animals and only in places that weren’t full of tourists. Stuart proposed a wonderful itinerary: three days in Sydney, including a private harbor tour, one day in the Blue Mountains (while still staying in the wonderful Park Hyatt in Sydney, with a magnificent view of the opera house from our room and balcony), three nights on Lord Howe Island and then three nights at Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island.

After our planning session we had several Zoom conversations with Jacki. She planned an itinerary that we exactly what we wanted. But Jacki’s true value as a travel agent came when we came to an unexpected glitch in our itinerary. We were already at the airport waiting to board our flight to Lord Howe Island when there was a sudden severe thunderstorm. After delaying our flight for several hours, our flight was cancelled. There were no available seats on the plane the following day, which meant that we needed to abandon our plan to visit Lord Howe Island. Unfortunately, it made no sense to visit an island by arriving in the late afternoon of what should have been our second day and then leaving the following morning.

I called Jacki from the airport and told her of our predicament. She answered her phone and immediately began proposing alternative destinations. One of her suggestions was Oceanview Eco Villas, which is actually two villas on a 500-acre property on Nepean Bay, also on Kangaroo Island, but in an entirely different location and with very different topography. We asked Jacki to make a reservation there for us for two nights and then to add an extra night to our stay at Southern Ocean Lodge. Jacki made the reservations, re-worked all of our transfers, including rebooking a night at an airport hotel in Adelaide. We were able to continue our vacation with no further interruptions.

We were very impressed with how quickly and efficiently Jacki made the necessary changes to our itinerary. We were very unhappy to miss Lord Howe Island, but our stay at Oceanview Eco Villas was wonderful. Tim and Tamsin, the owners of the villas, are fantastic hosts and do everything they can to provide an enjoyable and meaningful stay in their beautifully furnished villa with a spectacular ocean view. Tamsin prepared fabulous meals—vegan, per our request. Tim is a certified guide and gave great tours. He is true birder, and knew which trees and areas would host rare birds—and also found koalas for us.

Watching kangaroos and wallabies hopping through the vast open space around our villa was a unique bonus to staying at Oceanview Eco Villas. Tim and Tamsin are certified to do wild animal rescue and we got to watch a joey (baby kangaroo) both in and out of its mother’s pouch, and even got to feed the kangaroos (we were there during a drought so food and water were scarce).

Our stay at Southern Ocean Lodge was also wonderful. SOL is a magnificent, more than 5 star property. With the extra night that we added because of our cancelled stay on Lord Howe Island we were able to participate in more guided tours, and enjoy more of their creative and delicious meals (also specially prepared for us to be vegan). We also had more time to enjoy the wild and pristine environment of southern Kangaroo Island. Neither our stay at Oceanview Eco Villas nor our extra night at SOL of would have happened without Jacki’s reworking our trip after our inability to get to Lord Howe Island and we were very appreciative of how she rescued our vacation.

With Jacki’s and Stuart’s help, we were able to accomplish my original goal. With only two weeks in Australia we were able to see something of Sydney and enjoy some of Australia’s vast open spaces, including unique wild animals and birds.

This was our second trip with a Wendy Perrin WOW List travel expert. Our first trip was our 2024 vacation in Fiji. I am very appreciative of Wendy and her company and look forward to more wonderful trips in the future.

Read more reviews of Stuart. Or request your own trip.

Contact Stuart

Sicily: ideal weather to hike, bike, and visit the San Giuseppe festival on Marettimo Island

RICH REDIKER | MAY 9, 2025

Richard Rediker and friends at a cooking class in Siracusa, Sicily.

“One of the highlights was a cooking class at a restaurant in the Siracusa area…ending with a selfie taken by the chef himself!”

Sicily March 18 to April 3rd, 2025
17 Days in Sicily

We are two couples in our 70s who spent 17 glorious days in Sicily on a trip arranged by Matteo. For decades, I have planned my own trips all over the world. However, using Wendy’s WOW List last year for Morocco and this year for Sicily saved a lot of time and provided us with local experiences we never would have had otherwise. Over 17 days we biked, hiked, took cooking classes, learned a lot of history, saw many “ruins” and ate Sicilian cuisine. Matteo arranged for local drivers and guides at each stop—people who were from the places we visited and seemed to know everyone we passed.

Over many months, Matteo and I tweaked and refined our itinerary. When I mentioned that we enjoy remote destinations, he suggested visiting the car-free island of Marettimo for the San Giuseppe festival on March 19th. Marettimo is located 90 minutes off the west coast of Sicily by hydrofoil. Matteo ensured that accommodations and restaurants would be available despite the off-season. We had a local guide who grew up on the island, and whose father was the mayor. As we joined the festivities, we seemed to be the only “tourists” there—aside from locals who had grown up on the island and return each year for San Giuseppe.

On Marettimo, we ate at a fantastic restaurant where the owner’s husband had caught the tuna we enjoyed that day. When high winds were forecast for the day we were supposed to leave, Matteo quickly arranged for us to depart early, booked us a wonderful boutique hotel in Trapani, and set up a guided tour for the following day.

Each day, lunch was included at special restaurants or private homes. We hiked, biked, took cooking classes, and visited a couple of wineries. Everywhere we went, we were treated like VIPs. Our guides and drivers were always early and went out of their way to accommodate any requests. While Sicily can be very hot and crowded, traveling from March 18th through April 3rd was ideal—the weather was comfortable, ranging from the 50s to 60s, and there were very few tourists. Aside from a few stray showers, we had only two days of rain during the entire trip.
After Marettimo and Trapani, we spent four days in Palermo, two in Agrigento, and six in the Siracusa area.

Together, Matteo and I selected our accommodations in each location. The company allows travelers to choose their own rooms and pay hotels directly. Many travel agencies bundle hotel costs into their tour prices and provide only the lowest-category rooms.

Throughout our trip, Matteo checked in to ensure everything was going smoothly, even joining us for pizza one evening and again when we were in his hometown of Noto.

One of the highlights was a cooking class at a restaurant in the Siracusa area. First, we visited the market to select fresh, locally sourced ingredients, then returned to the restaurant to prepare and plate our own meals—ending with a selfie taken by the chef himself!

Contact Marcello and Matteo

New Zealand: learning to shear sheep, Ben Lomond Station, stargazing, yacht in Milford Sound

KATHYE FARIES | MAY 8, 2025

Kathye Faries shearing a sheep in New Zealand.

We spent about a month in New Zealand in March, 2025 and it was one of the very best vacations we’ve had (and the fourth planned by Wendy Perrin’s group of WOW List experts). The trip was curated by our travel planners Sara and Sarah, and they did a fantastic job of selecting places for us to stay so we could enjoy 6 days on the North Island and the rest of the month on the South Island. Our only request was to set up a tee time at Cape Kidnappers Golf Course—a bucket list item for me!

Each lodge was very different and extremely special—and most of them had a maximum of 10 guests! They were in fairly remote locations and we loved the peaceful, secluded, beautiful settings. Due to the vastness of the South Island, we drove and flew from top to bottom and coast to coast. We were blessed with gorgeous weather so our travels went smoothly.

Some of our most memorable adventures included trying our hand at shearing a sheep, enjoying a wine and cheese tasting, exploring a 6,000 acre stunning ranch on Hawke’s Bay via ATV, hiking through beautiful landscapes, driving the scenic road to Milford Sound and taking a small yacht cruise into the mouth of the sound, buying some gorgeous merino + possum sweaters, exploring the spectacular Ben Lomond Station (33,000 acre ranch) and meeting the owner (this is a MUST DO for those near Queenstown), stargazing and scaling the mountains in an ATV in the Ahuriri Valley, getting pampered with massages now and then, seeing the rare Hectors dolphins in Akaroa, taking a private cooking class with a master chef at our lodge near Christchurch, cruising the waters surrounding Abel Tasman National Park, and winding up our stay at a luxury retreat and wellness spa near Nelson. A perfect ending to a perfect trip.

The food was excellent throughout our journey and the chefs at the various lodges were made aware of my dietary preferences before we arrived. The team helped facilitate the return of a jacket I’d left at one of our lodges, and made some changes to our itinerary on the fly. They were outstanding in helping me plan this rather complicated trip (eight lodges, four flights around the country and lots of miles driven). The Kiwis we met were super friendly and I have now dubbed the places we stayed as “The Lands of Yes.” If you are thinking of exploring New Zealand, make your plans now— it’s a spectacular country.

Read more reviews of Sarah. Or request your own trip.

Contact Sarah

Vietnam: Ha Long Bay, war history, biking, local life, and beaches

MILRAY AND MIKE HOWELL | MAY 7, 2025

Milray Howell at the Hue Imperial Citadel. Photo: Traveler Mike Howell

Milray admires the Hue Imperial Citadel. Photo: Traveler Mike Howell

We used Sandy and Ethan to plan a 15-day trip to Vietnam and it was truly excellent! They were wonderful to work with especially from a communication, planning, and recommendations standpoint. I can’t think of anything I’d change and the local guides were all excellent!

We started in Hanoi on April 11 and ended in Saigon on April 27. We did so many things: war history and memorials, boating on Ha Long Bay, Ninh Bin, the Perfume River, and the Mekong. Biking in central Vietnam and a Vespa tour in Saigon. All the hotels were fantastic and luxurious with excellent locations and amazing breakfast buffets.

It was the most luxurious and least stressful trip we’ve ever been on. We saw local life, rural scenery, history, busy cities, and some wonderful relaxing beach time. We also had the luck to be in Saigon for some of the celebrations for their independence day. What a trip! I’d very highly recommend this company for any trips to that area!

Contact Sandy and Ethan

England: well-guided through the hidden gems of the Cotwolds, ablaze with bluebells

CHARLOTTE ROTH | MAY 7, 2025

Travelers Charlotte and Todd at St. Edward’s Church in Stow on the Wold, rumored to have inspired Tolkien’s Doors of Durin.

My husband and I had a wonderful first trip to England, which Katie and Shelbie planned. I’m thankful to Katie for encouraging us to stay four nights in London, rather than three, and she was so right! We were sure three was plenty, but seven would not have been too many. That’s why it’s important for us, for a first-time visit, to turn to Wendy’s advisors.
After London, we took the train to York and the Yorkshire area, then to the Cotswolds, where I fantasized about moving. We landed in the Cotswolds just in time to see the glorious wisteria and bluebells—Katie recommended visiting in the Spring, and she was spot on.

We had guides in all areas who were full of personality, knowledge, and insight. The staff at the recommended hotels in London and the Yorkshire area were over the top with service and sincere friendliness. We felt like part of the family.
Our guide Nick, in York, went above and beyond to make our trip special and to seek out things that we could never find on our own.

After four days touring with Jon, we left the Cotswolds with a new best friend. Having grown up in the Cotswolds, his knowledge was invaluable. When he learned we loved nature and flowers, he drove out of the way to a small wooded area known as the Bluebell Forest, where the entire forest floor was covered in Bluebells. It was stunning, and something we wouldn’t have seen on our own. The next day, he surprised us with a visit to the church where he was married, in a small off-the-path village. The church was small and one of the oldest in the Cotswolds, with a tapestry of the Lord’s Prayer dated to the 1600s. It was the highlight of our trip! This is why a trip planner with connections has so much value.

Read more reviews of Jonathan. Or request your own trip.

Contact Jonathan

Ireland: hawk walk at Ashford Castle, “sights & pints” in Dublin, Titanic Belfast

NATALIE TOMARAS | MAY 6, 2025

Natalie Tomaras with a Harris Hawk at Ashford Castle. Photo: Tim Hauber

Our trip to Ireland was just fantastic. We were very happy with the itinerary as our trip planner listened to our interests (animals, ancestry, and more authentic experiences) and managed to orchestrate a wide range of locales in our 10 days. I would say that some days felt a bit ambitious, but we always felt as if we could exercise control over editing the daily itinerary.

Things to check out: Giant’s Causeway and the Titanic museum in Belfast/Antrim Coast are must-sees. You would think that these things would be touristy and they are—but still very worth it. The museum is done in such an engrossing way—it sets the context of the era, and then draws you into the story completely. Tracy’s Farmhouse kitchen, our sheep farm tour, the hawk walk at Ashford castle and the food tour in Galway were absolutely enjoyable. We were able to have meaningful conversations with people in each of these activities and I discovered that this is really what makes a trip stick with you. The EPIC museum in Dublin was equally as engrossing as the Titanic and also a must-see.

We had a pints and sights tour when we arrived in Dublin—this was scheduled for 4 hours and that was a LONG TIME to be walking and drinking! I would definitely try to shorten this to 2 hours, though our guide was also fantastic and another person with whom we had connected conversations. Plus, after that, we were able to navigate Dublin on foot quite easily.

The most unique experience was definitely the hawk walk at Ashford Castle. Although this might not appeal to everyone, it was a true highlight for me.

We had 2 driver guides and they were amazing! Especially for the 2nd portion of our trip in Ireland. He took care of everything, was flexible, responsive, intrepid in the face of having to navigate a marathon route that kept us from our itinerary, and just a lovely human being. Martin (our driver) took it upon himself to locate a priest in a town where my husband’s relatives were buried in an ancient cemetery. Martin arranged a meeting on the fly with the priest so that my husband could validate his ancestral research. This was WAY above and beyond his call of duty.

We also toured a number of castles, learning about the history of Ireland along the way. Finally, we just got SICK of eating out, and specifically at expensive, posh restaurants. While touring Kilkenny, we sourced fresh bread, cheese, salami, and a bottle of wine to enjoy on the grounds of our hotel which was isolated from any town. This was a highlight for sure. Martin was more than willing to take us back into town for dinner, but eating out for every meal got to be tedious and expensive.

Our trip planner did a fantastic job of listening to our interests and planning a trip to hit on each one in addition to finding great places to stay and unbeatable driver guides.

Read more reviews of Jonathan. Or request your own trip.

Contact Jonathan

Japan: drums, baseball, temples, & the arts— culinary, knives, and papermaking

BOB URBAN | MAY 6, 2025

Bob Urban and family at Yanasi Washi paper making factory.

Party of four for paper-making (plus local experts) at the Yanasi Washi factory.

Andrea and his team put together a wonderful trip for four to Japan. The trip was designed, in part, to sample the culinary arts of Japan from food tasting to food artistry, sake tasting, and even the production of handmade knives. One day we participated in the preparation and cooking of savory pancakes called onomiyaki and gyoza dumplings. They made a delicious lunch! Another day we tasted sake with a very knowledgeable guide. For our tea ceremony, we all dressed in kimono, an experience in itself. Dining with a geisha gave us a window into the past, but with a modern touch. We visited the Ryusen factory which has been producing handmade knives for decades, a skill that evolved over centuries from sword making and handed down in the family.

The trip was not wholly devoted to food, however, as we visited another small manufactory where we made our own paper. We took a lesson in taiko drumming, immersed ourselves in the moving digital light show at TeamLab Borderless, visited the Studio Ghibli Museum, even went to a Tokyo Giants baseball game! Nor did we neglect the ancient history of Japan, visiting important temples and even spending a day in Nara, the capital of Japan during the 8th century.

Our guides proved knowledgeable and accommodating, helping us negotiate the transportation systems and even altering the planned itinerary as requested, on the spur of the moment. Further, the team set up a What’s App “guardian communication avenue, which proved most helpful on a day-to-day basis.

We are happy to recommend Andrea and his planning team to any travelers wishing to visit Japan.

Read more reviews of Andrea. Or request your own trip.

Ecuador and The Galápagos Islands: Ecuadorian chocolate, Cotopaxi volcano, excursions & animals galore

JOE AND KRIS NAGLICH | MAY 6, 2025

Kris Naglich swinging above Quito, Ecuador.

Traveler Kris Naglich swinging above Quito after riding the teleferico to the peak.

We traveled to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands from 4/3/25 to 4/16/25. Our trip was planned by Ashton from Expedition Trips. After our zoom call with Ashton and deciding we wanted to go to the Galapagos, we worked mainly with Ashley and Monica planning our trip. They were super helpful with our planning and very receptive to changing day trips according to our wishes. They always got back to us in a very timely matter and answered all of our questions. We really appreciated this and we felt well informed about our destination. When I use a planner I really appreciate when they let us know what to pack, how much money to bring, tipping of guides etc… We had all of this information and more.

We started our trip in Quito, Ecuador. Our guide met us at the airport. Vanessa was an excellent guide and having her meet us at the airport gave us all the information we would need for our next day’s tour. We had a full day tour of the old town and a full day tour to Cotopaxi National Park. Both days were so different and we enjoyed every moment. We loved riding the teleferico to the top and hiking to the swing. The churches in the old town were amazing and we learned all about Ecuadorian chocolate from bean to bar. We also enjoyed our hike around the lake and seeing Cotopaxi volcano up close. The lunch we had after at Chilcabamba and the very bumpy ride when it was pouring rain was quite the adventure. Luckily we had the best driver and he tried to miss as many ruts in the road as possible.

Next we flew to the Galapagos for a cruise with National Geographic on the Islander II. The boat was lovely and the service was perfect. We really enjoyed all of our excursions to the islands and seeing the animals of the Galapagos that you can’t see anywhere else. The food was delicious and it was nice to meet other travelers on the boat. I wished our cruise was longer. If I was giving advice for the Galapagos, I would say go for a longer cruise on a smaller boat. It was so amazing that I hope I can go back and see more someday.

Last we stayed at the Mashpi Lodge in the cloud forest for three nights. The lodge was beautiful and peaceful. We felt like we really escaped from it all. We were paired with another family for our hikes and we all had such a good time. Seeing the birds, swimming in the waterfall, our private hot tub night, and watching the hummingbirds were our favorite activities but we really enjoyed everything.

Visiting Ecuador and the Galapagos was never on my bucket list but I’m so glad Ashton suggested it. We will always remember this wonderful trip. We want to plan a trip to Antartica soon and we will be contacting Ashton to help us do our planning.

Read more reviews of Ashton. Or request your own trip.

Contact Ashton

Costa Rica: celebratory rafting, rappelling & zip-lining, ceviche lessons on the beach

ANNA KUO | MAY 5, 2025

Anna Kuo and family white water rafting on Pacuare River in Costa Rica.

Staying afloat! “We were celebrating a couple of birthdays and a retirement, and it was such a thoughtful surprise.”

Irene planned an 8 day adventure-filled vacation for our group of 9 adults for the end of March 2025. We knew we wanted to white-water raft on the Pacuare River, followed by a few days on the beach. Irene suggested a few beach destinations and we decided on the Manuel Antonio area.

After an overnight stay in San Jose we were transported to the Pacuare River put-in, about a 2.5 hours drive from San Jose. When we arrived at the river we were greeted by the river guides who showed us how to gear up, and then handed us our helmets that were all decorated with balloons—even the rafts were decorated with balloons! We were celebrating a couple of birthdays and a retirement, and it was such a thoughtful surprise. We rafted on class 11-111 rapids for about 90 minutes and arrived at the incredible Pacuare Lodge, where we stayed for two nights. The lodge was luxurious, well maintained, and the food was delicious.

We signed up to do zip lining and rappelling, which we originally thought would be a bit tame but ended up being another highlight of the trip. The guides took our safety seriously but also made it really fun to step off a platform 30 feet in the air! To depart the Pacuare Lodge we had to also raft out, and that particular leg of the trip had some class 111-1v rapids. There is a section of the river where the water is calm and flows between a high walled canyon—we were allowed to jump out of the rafts and float downstream in this magical place. After enjoying lunch riverside, we rafted to the take-out where we able to shower and then shuttle to the local airstrip for our chartered flight to Manuel Antonio Park.

We stayed three nights at the incredible Arenas del Mar resort. We were immediately greeted by iguanas, sloths and monkeys. The beach was beautiful, as well as the pool overlooking the ocean. The guys spent one day fishing sailfish and also came back with a mahi that the chef served as ceviche that night for dinner. We also took surfing lessons and toured Manuel Antonio Park. The staff at the hotel were incredibly attentive and gracious. On our last night Irene arranged for our whole group to have a cocktail making lesson, followed by a ceviche making lesson, followed by a Latin dance lesson, all on the beach!

The transportation and arrangements throughout the trip were flawless, and Irene’s attention to detail was much appreciated. All of us agreed this was one of the best trips the family ever had, and we are grateful to Irene for helping us create many lasting memories.

Read more reviews of Irene. Or request your own trip.

Contact Irene

Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos: tree-covered ancient temples, prioritizing greenspace, walking with elephants & water buffalo

ELLEN EISENBERG | MAY 2, 2025

Ellen Eisenberg on a water buffalo in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Visiting gentle water buffalo in the countryside.

Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam, April 2-21, 2025
Just about a month before my desired travel period, I reached out to Ethan to plan a trip to Vietnam and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, which had both been on my list of places to visit. I would have been open to other modes of transportation than flying from city to city, but the pacing of this entire experience was just perfect. After speaking with Ethan, we even added a couple of extra days and Laos to the itinerary. Ethan reminded me that, despite my greater interest in spending time in the countryside, so much to see in Vietnam would be in the cities.

My favorite hotel in Southeast Asia was in Siem Reap, the Jaya House River Park, where the boutique atmosphere, friendly staff, daily massages and delicious breakfasts won the day. My introduction to the region came from Ken Ya, my thoughtful guide (and talented photographer), who carefully gauged my interests and accommodated them thoroughly. The order and pacing of visiting the stunning tree-covered ancient temples and stilt homes (Tonle Sap) was just right. The Khmer cuisine planned for me far exceeded my expectations, and the quiet sunrise snacks were a nice treat. In Laos, the highlight was the Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary, where we got to feed and walk with those special creatures as they get used to a life that feels more like the freedom they were born to experience; no riding them, no sharp picks.

Besides the unique strolling through day and night markets, I was also lucky enough to experience a Buddhist welcome ceremony in my guide Ek’s home, along with his warm and friendly troupe of villagers/relatives. In Vietnam, the highlights were the food-nights-out in Hanoi by foot and in Saigon by Vespa. The food and company were delightful. Outside of Hanoi, while the side trip to not-at-all-ancient Bat Trang should be avoided (we went at my insistence, and it wasn’t a good use of time, though I did purchase my granddaughter’s new tea set there, her favorite gift from the trip), the overnights in Halong Bay were very special, from the sound bowl experience to the beautifully designed, crave-able lunches.

Also worthy of mention, the hard work and kindness by guide Mimi in Central Vietnam to accommodate my needs and interests (from local family food, laundry and custom clothing to water buffalo, extra cycling and the hilltop Hands Bridge) along the way. Also note that Thuy in Saigon was a great companion for this solo traveler, tirelessly finding me greenspace, the perfect Vietnamese coffee in a tiny antiques shop, local Phó and rice wine, as well as fun Vietnamese purchases to round out my whole experience.

Contact Sandy and Ethan

Morocco: Casablanca markets, Marrakech by sidecar, sunrise balloon ride, hiking the Atlas peaks

JENNIFER FLICK | MAY 2, 2025

Jennifer Flick with two local women in a village in Morocco.

Jennifer Flick, hiking the Atlas Mountains, pauses for a tea stop with the hosts in their family kitchen.

We spent 8 full days on the ground in Morocco February 4-11, 2025. When friends ask about our trip to Morocco, we truthfully say that our trip was flawless from the moment we left our front door to the moment we walked back in. In summary, we feel like we got a pretty comprehensive “tasting” of Morocco—history, geography, culture, architecture, religion, food, specialty arts/products, employment situations, both metro and mountains, music, older generations vs. newer mentalities, current “scene,” and some silly fun.

For many years, I have been the trip planner, and a very good one! But this time I just didn’t feel like doing all the research and work, so I used WendyPerrin.com to find someone to do the work for me. Wow, did they deliver! I chose between two companies, both seemed amazing, but I just resonated more with what I read about one. We met with Sara on Zoom, where she reviewed our form that had come to her through WendyPerrin.com. She asked additional questions about our preferences for timing, activities, pace, and personal interests. She noted our requests, and made suggestions we didn’t know about that were great! Although the default itinerary was 1 week, Sara worked with us to design it for 8 full days as we requested.

Initially we thought we wanted to go in December. Sara explained it would be high season due to holidays, very busy, and less choice of preferred accommodations. We appreciate her input on this—that was NOT the experience we wanted! So we pushed our travel back to February. For us the weather was perfect with daytime in the 60s and low 70s; too cool to get into the pools, a little nippy at night on the rooftop patios, so slightly off season. This meant far less people to navigate, shorter lines, more quality time with locals.

We flew into Casablanca and were met by our always-smiling tour guide Mustafa and our safe, kind driver, Abdul. It was FANTASTIC to have the same guide and driver for the entire 8 days. We could adjust the pace and ask endless questions about Moroccan life. When we went through the markets, we noticed that because he is a large man with a tour guide badge, the sales-seas parted—we were not approached repeatedly like the other tourists were. When we wanted to make purchases, Mustafa quietly gave us his input on negotiating pricing. When we suddenly needed a pharmacy item, he talked with locals to quickly find it for us. Abdul, our driver, was always punctual, friendly, but focused on the road at all times—a VERY safe and patient driver! He kept the Mercedes van spotless and filled with snacks and cold water for us.

Upon arrival, we toured the Casablanca mosque, then we were driven to Fez by way of a mind-blowingly amazing private lunch stop at a winery. We toured Fez for 2 days, then onto Marrakech by way of seaside Rabat (with a wonderful rooftop lunch and a stop at the sea to watch the waves crashing on the cliffs). We had 4 full days in Marrakech, then 2 nights in the Atlas Mountains, before flying back home from Marrakesh. We avoided big hotels, preferring the traditional Moroccan riad accommodations. Every morning Mustafa would review our schedule with us, and every evening he would remind us of what we needed to be prepared for the following day—this was JOYOUS for this “retired” planner-in-charge!

Experiences:
We did a beautiful, interesting hike in the Atlas mountains, as I love hiking! My husband had a hip issue, so they provided a mule for him to ride as we hiked. He said she was more comfortable and sure-footed than a horse, and he really enjoyed it! We had a perky, interesting local guide and visited a humble home in a tiny village, which felt very special. At the top of the hike, he had lunch ready for us on a jaw-droppingly beautiful patio facing the snowy peaks.

Although we didn’t know what to expect, we trusted Sara and agreed to the Marrakech sidecar tour. SO MUCH FUN with amazing surprises included—JUST DO IT!
We learned that the hot air balloon industry now supports hundreds of farming families that have lost their crops due to the droughts—their fields have become landing pads, and they work for the balloon companies. We were happy to support them by taking a beautiful sunrise flight, followed by breakfast. The planners set us up in a much smaller balloon basket (8 guests total) than some of the other companies (12-15 people!); details matter!

We took a cooking class from a professional chef who taught us both cooking and culture. We had a great time with the family that provides the class, and I bought my own tagine at a ceramic store to recreate the meal back home.

In general, we found Moroccan people to be very kind and helpful, not only to tourists, but also caring for local disadvantaged people, as well as the many stray cats. It seems to be built into the culture to be kind, and we found that quite endearing.

Thanks to WendyPerrin.com and our planners, this was a flawless trip. We are definitely using WP for the next adventure!

Read more reviews of Hicham. Or request your own trip.

Contact Hicham

* Although we have compiled and reviewed these reviews for trip planners to earn a spot on The WOW List, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or truthfulness of the reviews we receive and cannot assure that all travelers will have the same experience.

Where to See the Northern Lights and When

Leave a reply

You don’t have to count on luck, or an in with Mother Nature, to witness the northern lights (also known as the aurora borealis). You can improve your chances by being strategic about timing, weather, and geography. That’s because you need to achieve “the big three”: First, a location under the auroral oval, a band that shifts over time but typically crosses through Alaska, northern Canada, southern Greenland, Iceland, and northern Norway. Second, you need dark nights. And third, clear skies.

We turned to WOW Listers for those northerly locales—Jan Sortland (Norway and Iceland), Torunn Tronsvang (Norway), Mads Christensen (Iceland), and Marc Telio (Canada)—to learn the best times and places to see the lights and for insider tips on fun ways to pass the days between your nighttime viewing opportunities. Before we dive into their favorite places to experience the northern lights, some overall tips:

Understand the auroral oval. The northern lights appear when the earth’s magnetic field attracts charged particles thrown off by the sun, the result of solar storms. The particles form a halo around the magnetic pole; this is the so-called auroral oval.

Plan a longer trip. Build in extra time in case of stormy weather. Ideally, you want to spend at least three nights in a place where you have a shot at seeing the lights. If it’s cloudy on any of those nights, the lights could be spectacular, but you won’t see them.

Don’t assume you’re guaranteed a light show in Sweden, Finland, or Greenland. Sweden’s too far south (most of Finland is, too), and Greenland’s weather can be stormy in winter, resulting in skies that obscure the lights. So those countries tend to be more unpredictable for northern-lights viewing than Norway, Iceland, and Canada.

Did you know you can see the northern lights in summertime? They occur year-round; the only reason they’re perceived as a winter phenomenon is that you need a dark sky to actually see them, and in very northerly parts of the world, there’s very little darkness in summer. But, in certain spots, you can sometimes see the northern lights as early as late August.

Here are our experts’ top places to witness the northern lights:

Alta, Norway

Northern lights are a common sighting in Alta, Norway—but no less spectacular for it. Photo: Shutterstock

This town is ideally located right under the auroral oval and at the meeting point of three different microclimate zones; this betters your odds of seeing the aurora borealis, since it’s unusual to have overcast skies in all three zones at the same time. Alta is also warmed by the gulf stream, so daytime temperatures are warmer there even than in spots farther south. In the past 20 years, every traveler whom Jan Sortland has sent to Alta for at least three nights has seen the northern lights. “Venturing up to the top of Bjørnfjell Mountain to watch the northern lights around a bonfire is magical,” says Torunn Tronsvang. She adds that another benefit of Alta is that you don’t have to drive around to see the lights: “You can see them from your accommodations, such as the the Isbreen domes outside of Alta in Jokelfjord.”

When to Go

“The best time of year is March,” says Sortland, “but you can see the northern lights there from the end of August until the end of March.”

While You’re There, Don’t Miss….

Ice fishing and dog sledding. “Spend a day in the wilderness as a musher, followed with a 12-course organic dinner prepared by Sámi chef Johnny Trasti at Trasti & Trine,” Tronsvang tells us. “The feeling of mastering the dogs and having to work hard outside in a stunning winter landscape, followed by culture told through local ingredients prepared like simple art, is amazing!” Sortland can also arrange for you to go reindeer herding with the Sámi.

START A TRIP TO NORTHERN CANADA

Iceland

A dark-sky light show in Iceland. Photo: kamilgrygo/Pixabay

Iceland’s south coast, including the Vik area, and Jökulsárlón—the country’s best-known glacier lagoon—are prime destinations for northern lights. Because Iceland is an island and subject to offshore fronts, the weather can be unpredictable, and it’s common for clouds to block the light show.

When to Go

October to March.

While You’re There, Don’t Miss…

By day, Mads Christensen can send you snowmobiling, dog sledding, ATVing across black-sand beaches, on foodie tours of Reykjavik, and to hot springs and waterfalls in Iceland’s countryside.

START A TRIP TO ICELAND

Northern Canada

Dog sledding in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories in Canada.

Dog sledding near Yellowknife, in Canada’s Northwest Territories, is a fun way to fill the daylight hours. Photo: Shutterstock

Northern lights displays are likeliest in the northern third of Canada: The Northwest Territories often sit directly under the auroral oval, as does part of Yukon.

When to Go

The absolute best time of year for the clearest and darkest skies is from the third week of January to the end of March. November and December also have the dark skies, but they produce more precipitation, so skies may have more cloud cover. Peak-season dates book up early, so plan well in advance. (A typical stay in the region is four nights.)

While You’re There, Don’t Miss…

To occupy yourself in the daytime, go snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dogsledding and ice fishing. Also, says Marc Telio, “there are some profoundly beautiful Indigenous storytelling and cultural experiences, including one where guests have the opportunity to eat Muktuk [whale] and meet with elders in a community.”

Read These Northern Lights Trip Reviews For More Intel and Cool Trip Ideas

September in Norway
“We stayed in a rorbu in Reine and stepped outside to a show of the northern lights—right there on our own porch!!”

Reine, Lofoten, Norway. The village of Reine under a sunny, blue sky, with the typical rorbu houses. View from the top

The village of Reine in Lofoten, Norway. Photo: Shutterstock

“We started in Bergen, driving north through the fjords, and had constant awe-inspiring scenery. Jan arranged two different times we would be on the water in a fjord. We spent half a day on a RIB boat—just the two of us and the captain—gliding along the fjord waters.

Then we flew to the Lofoten Islands, where we stayed in a rorbu in Reine. We had a fun WOW Moment when an excellent halibut dinner was prepared for us in our own room and we were able to enjoy this private time together watching the harbor with a great meal! Thank you for arranging this!! A couple of hours later, we stepped outside to a show of the northern lights—right there on our own porch!!

Finally, we flew up to Alta, above the Arctic Circle. The Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge was absolutely incredible. Our room, with floor-to-ceiling windows, looked out over the Alta River, and you really felt a million miles from everything. We would have been content to stay there and never leave the grounds—but there was much to see and do! We took a boat ride on the Alta River, with a BBQ lunch of salmon along the way. Very memorable. The visit to the Sami was so interesting—we were so glad to learn about this culture. And each night, we had our Chasing the Northern Lights Safari.” —Sally Boland

October in Canada
“We viewed polar bears continuously for four days…”

Polar Bear walking on snow with northern lights in the background

Two-thirds of the world’s polar bears are found in Canada. Photo: Shutterstock

“My husband and I traveled with another couple to Seal River Heritage Lodge, a short plane ride north of Churchill, Manitoba, from October 21-27. Marc was wonderful in helping us plan the trip. It was a trip of a lifetime! Everything went perfectly. Our two biggest wishes were to see polar bears and the northern lights. We were not disappointed. We had seen the trips that involve the elevated buses and knew we didn’t want that experience.

What Marc provided was so much more. We viewed polar bears continuously for four days. The photos we took were incredible. We weren’t promised anything, but what we received was so much more than what we expected. Thank you for an amazing experience!” —Mike and Sue Mrdjenovich

START A TRIP TO CANADA

December in Norway
“We spent our days crab fishing, relaxing in our sauna, visiting the local reindeer sanctuary…”

Visiting a Sami family included a covered snowmobile ride and feeding baby reindeer. Photo: Traveler Laura Probst

“Torunn helped us choose Christmas time for what we were looking for—Northern Lights, unique animal encounters, authentic local interactions.

Arriving the day after Christmas, we were still in time to visit Oslo’s festive Christmas market and enjoy some of the city’s holiday decor and seasonal foods. Then getting to Alta, we stayed in beautifully small lodges with exceptional hospitality and got to see the Northern Lights almost every night. We also got to really understand Sami culture, as Torunn arranged really special experiences like New Years Eve with a Sami family…who after cooking us reindeer stew for dinner, packed us up on their covered snowmobile to go for an adventure in the woods to make a hot chocolate pit of snow and feed baby reindeer (after taking us to the best view to see the Northern Lights show for the night).

We then moved to the Engholm Husky Lodge where the owner Sven has hand-crafted all 8 lodges along with every furnishing and decoration in each. We could not stop taking photos of every unique fixture and item—all so cool and smart. And living with the dogs and going out with the local Samis there was incredible.

Torunn encouraged us to go to Nesseby Bay on the Varangerfjord for our last stop in Finnmark and I’m so glad she did. There are only two cabins and a sauna there, and we had the place to ourselves with our host Edgar. The cabins are pods with glass sides that look out at the bay—Edgar makes everything himself, and we spent our days crab fishing, relaxing in our sauna, visiting the local reindeer sanctuary and using Edgar’s skate-sleds to move around the quiet roads along the bay. We could sit and look at the moon and Saturn and every constellation starting by 1pm every day, and just felt like we were on another planet.

We have done many trips with Wendy’s planners and this was definitely one of the best. So unique and special—we will be talking about it for years to come.” —Laura Probst

January in Norway
“I knew it would be cold in northern Norway, so I said to myself, ‘I’d like to see the Aurora from a hot tub!’”

Jerry and Carol Huller in Alta, Norway, in front of Aurora Borealis.

Travelers Jerry and Carol Huller in Alta, Norway, in front of the much-anticipated Aurora Borealis.

“A bucket list trip of mine has been to travel to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). I visited Iceland a year ago, but only saw the Aurora for a few minutes on 2 nights of a 4-night trip; they were not very prominent. I learned that seeing the Aurora is somewhat a matter of luck. You need dark skies, mostly clear skies, and solar activity causing favorable Aurora viewing conditions as measured by the Kp Index (measure of global geomagnetic disturbance), HPI or Hemispheric Power Index (total energy of the Aurora), and Bz (solar magnetic direction).

In Wendy Perrin’s newsletter, I have read about successful trips to Tromsø and Alta, Norway, to see the Aurora. So I decided to travel about 400 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle to Alta, which is less commercialized and less crowded than Tromsø. I chose to visit in the winter around a new moon for darker skies. I knew it would be cold in northern Norway, so I said to myself, “I’d like to see the Aurora from a hot tub!” I knew I would need mostly clear skies which is not always guaranteed, so I decided on a 5-night visit to enhance my chances of success. I knew I would need someone with specialized knowledge about the area, so I contacted Wendy’s WOW List planner, Torunn, to arrange my trip.

Thanks possibly to an intervention by Torunn with the Norse gods, I was lucky to see the Aurora on 2 of the 5 nights, including from hot tubs at two different locations in the Alta area—the Björnfjell Mountain Lodge and a cabin at the Onga Boutique Hotel with a private outdoor hot tub (and sauna). So all my expectations were met!

We decided not to do dog mushing, but enjoyed a snowshoe hike with a local insider, lunch in a lavvu, a bonfire dinner (but no stargazing because of the cloudy skies), a tour of the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel with a drink at the Ice Bar, a reindeer sled ride, and stories by a Sami (indigenous person) around a fire.

Torunn also arranged for an Aurora Dome for us at the Onga—it’s basically a geodesic glass igloo with a wood pellet stove for warmth for observing the Aurora; you could sleep there if you wanted. To me, there was too much light reflection from the stove for stargazing or observing the Aurora. At the Onga, the staff did have daily Aurora walks, weather permitting; one night was cancelled due to cloudy weather; the other night we saw the Aurora prominently in the night sky.

Aurora tips: bring a tripod if you’re interested in getting time-lapse videos of the Northern Lights. Wear a glove liner that will work with your camera or smartphone; it’s cold in the winter. Locals told me the best Aurora viewing is when the temperature is -10 to -20 degrees Celsius or colder; there tend to be few clouds in such conditions. The best viewing we experienced of the Northern Lights was at the Sorrisniva (we saw the Lights from horizon to horizon) and at the Onga (in a valley, but great views). Find and use a good Aurora app or Internet website, or check with your hotel or lodge staff; I used https://northernlightsmap.com and https://Aurorasaurus.org.” —Jerry Huller

February in Finland
“Finnish myths say the lights are caused when a fox runs across the arctic landscape whipping up snow from its tail…”

The northern lights captured by the traveler from his suite's porch at the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel in Finland.

Traveler Michael Ruma shot this view of the northern lights from his suite’s porch at the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel.

“My wife said she’d like to see the aurora borealis and with Wendy’s help, we were quickly introduced to Leigh. Leigh quickly answered our call, listened carefully to our wants and needs, and created a delightful week of fun in Finland.

We hopped an easy flight from Helsinki to Rovaniemi, which lies directly on the latitude of the Arctic Circle. An efficient, private transfer brought us to the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel. Met with warm blueberry juice, we checked into our Glass House suite. Our room had a centrally located living room with an enclosed wood-burning stove along with two bathrooms, one of which had our very own dry sauna.

Advised to download the Aurora app, we learned about the KP index, which predicts the probability of witnessing the northern lights. Fortunately, after dinner at the hotel, a notification from the app informed us at 9pm the chance was high! Intent on seeing the natural phenomenon, we bundled up and hiked up a trail to a 50-foot observation tower specifically designed for viewing the lights. Finnish myths say the lights are caused when a fox runs across the arctic landscape whipping up snow from its tail, sparking the lights in the night sky. Regardless of the cause, we were blessed by an hour display of a gray hazy line emerging in the distance and evolving into a bright green glow right in front of our eyes. As we watched and photographed the sky, the lights blew around us along our walk back to our room.

Our next two days were filled with other Arctic adventures, which included an exciting jaunt by snowmobile to learn how to ice fish on a frozen lake and then dog sledding on a snowy day in the beautiful and vast northern Finnish countryside. We concluded our trip with a train ride from Rovaniemi back to Helsinki. On our last day in Helsinki, we splurged and dined at Restaurant Savoy.

We would happily come back to Finland for a future visit either in the winter to take in the unique night sky, but this time much further north, or during the summer to take in the lively and sunny long days in Helsinki filled with so much to see, taste, and do. Delighted by its vast country, small polite population, and compact capital, its seasonally focused food, and its matter-of-fact and kind people. We had such fun in Finland.” —Michael Ruma

START A TRIP TO FINLAND

March in Canada
“Northern lights, and then some, in the breathtaking Yukon.”

Northern Lights in Dawson City, Yukon Territory, Canada.

“The sky was on fire during two of the nights. A yurt with a hot stove was much welcomed.” Photo: Shutterstock

“Northern lights, and then some, in the breathtaking Yukon. Marc put together a well-organized and well-crafted itinerary that had a little of everything—nature, a wide variety of activities, culture, and history—for my sister and me. Our excursions were all private, from a director-led museum visit, snowmobiling, ice fishing, snowshoeing, hiking in Tombstone Territorial Park and then flying back in a Cessna, formulating a skin cream with an herbalist/healer, to a city walking tour with a guide who had keys to all the historic buildings.

Marc astutely provided us with five opportunities to see the aurora, and we saw it on three nights. The sky was on fire during two of the nights. A yurt with a hot stove was much welcomed. We were having so much fun taking pictures, we begrudgingly went in to warm up only when our fingers started to go numb.

The other highlight, much to our surprise, was dogsledding. I have gone dogsledding in the past, but this experience was totally different. Our guide, Ben, is a musher who participates in races. We loved meeting his dogs and learning how he cares for them during a race and outside of racing. The dogs have distinct personalities and are hysterically adorable.

We told Marc that seeing the northern lights was our priority, and we let him choose the dates and locations. We placed our trust in Marc, and he nailed it. And because it was low season, we felt we had the breathtaking, snowy landscape and vast wilderness of the Yukon all to ourselves. Does life get any better than that?” —Linda Bailey

START A TRIP TO CANADA

March in Norway
“Activity-packed days dogsledding, snowshoeing with ice fishing, and went on a snowmobile looking for stray reindeer.”

Alta’s stable climate and minimal light pollution make it one the best places to view the Aurora Borealis. Photo: Shutterstock

“We went on a wonderful trip to Alta, mainly to see the Aurora Borealis. On our way we had a short stopover in Copenhagen. The trip was meticulously planned by Jan’s team.

In Copenhagen, we had a wonderful guide and driver who were both very knowledgeable and accommodating to our interests. We stayed at the beautiful and centrally located Hotel d’Angleterre. While in Alta we stayed at the Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge, which was beautiful with a delicious restaurant, Maku. We had activity-packed days in which we went dogsledding, snowshoeing with ice fishing, and went on a snowmobile looking for stray reindeer. After dinner we went looking for the aurora borealis.

We had gone on dogsledding “rides” before where they put you on a sled with a driver and you ride around a track and get a good photo op as you go by. This dog sled experience was much more interesting. We put our dogs into their harness, hooked them to the sled, and drove for a few hours’ ride through the countryside. We also had a great time snowshoeing with Kristine who went at a nice, easy pace for us and made us a delicious lunch in a Lavvu (Sami dwelling). On another day, our guide Rikki took us on a full day trip visiting a Sami reindeer herder where we “helped” him round up stray reindeer on snowmobiles.

To see the northern lights, we had a guide that was ready to take us out every evening. We were lucky and had two beautiful nights with the aurora borealis (and two snowy nights). The northern lights were spectacular.” —Marianne Hane

START A ONE-OF-A-KIND TRIP

Be a smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s weekly newsletter to stay in the know. Read real travelers’ reviews, then use the black CONTACT buttons on Wendy’s WOW List to reach out to the right local fixer for your trip.

Real Connections with Locals: WOW Trip Reviews

Leave a reply

From cooking up regional recipes in a chef’s home to learning old-world crafts in an artisan’s workshop to getting invited to a traditional wedding, there are many ways to meet noteworthy local characters (as well as normal, everyday people) and gain a much deeper understanding of the culture and traditions of the places we explore. Our Trusted Travel Experts shine at making these connections that enrich travel. The reviews below illustrate just a handful of the people you can meet and friends you can make when you have a savvy travel fixer in your corner. Here’s how to get your own WOW trip.

Malta: meeting artisans and visiting the private museum of a WWII military collector

Jan Heininger and Jamie Reuter next to a vintage car in Malta.

Jan and her husband Jamie with the WWII military truck that Queen Elizabeth II once serviced.

“Jason planned a nine-day trip for my husband and me that was filled with superb experiences we could never have planned on our own. As we had spent five days in Malta in 2011 and had seen most of the usual sights, for this trip we sought activities that would allow us to more fully experience Malta’s unique culture. Boy, did Jason deliver.

We visited with a pipe-organ restorer who was working on an organ high in a historic church’s nave, an artisan gold gilder (and builder of exquisite Maltese clocks), and a builder of traditional Maltese boats. We met with a knight of the Knights of St. John, founded in the 12th century to care for pilgrims, who gave us a wonderful tour of Fort St. Angelo, the Knights’ headquarters until ejected in 1798 by Napoleon.

We visited the Hypogeum, an outstanding burial complex in use between 4000 and 1500 BC. We played bocce with local Maltese, rode ATVs on Gozo Island, had a lovely private Gozitan picnic, created our own Maltese tiles, learned to make Malta’s renowned street food pastizzi in a local couple’s home, visited a WWII military collector in his private museum and even got a ride in his beloved ‘Bessie,’ the WWII military truck Queen Elizabeth II learned to service during the War. We visited a private 900-year-old Mdina palazzo whose owner showed us the family’s prized possessions, had a marvelous lesson by an art restoration specialist, and an enjoyable rustic farm lunch with a delightful Maltese couple.

Finally—as if all this wasn’t enough—we had a falconry experience that enthralled us. We are birders and enjoy watching birds of prey. To have a Harris’s hawk, a barn owl and a Pharaoh eagle-owl fly from my husband’s leather-gloved wrist to mine for two glorious hours was an unbelievable treat.

All of these experiences were made possible because of Jason’s extensive network of Maltese friends. Most visitors to Malta now have little interaction with the Maltese. Since our 2011 visit, Malta has been flooded with immigrants, and they now largely populate the hospitality industry. Your chances of meeting and conversing with Maltese locals are far less likely now—unless Jason arranges your trip.” —Jan Heininger

Read more reviews of Malta trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO MALTA

Sicily: Cooking with a family sharing stories & recipes in an intimate setting…

“In a small Sicilian village, we cooked alongside an extended family and their children.” Photo: Adobe Stock

“Our family just returned from a magical 10-day trip to Sicily, and I can’t say enough about how exceptional the experience was. I have to give credit to Laura, the owner of the trip planning company, who lives in Palermo. From our very first conversation it was clear that she is an incredible listener, genuinely dedicated to creating a personalized experience. Her connections on the island run deep, and it truly showed in the unique and meaningful experiences we enjoyed.

One of the highlights was our time in a small Sicilian village, where we cooked alongside an extended family and their children. Sharing stories and recipes in such an intimate setting made us feel like part of the community. Another remarkable experience was visiting a Sicilian cart maker’s workshop and participating in a painting tutorial led by a master artisan who also creates textiles for Dolce & Gabbana. It was fascinating, and my sons were particularly enthralled by the Archimedes studio outside of Siracusa. There, they learned about the scholar’s inventions with real-life replicas, bringing ancient ingenuity to life in a way that still has them talking about it.

In Palermo, we had the privilege of meeting one of the last remaining puppet makers (pupari) on the island. Not only was the art of puppet making more captivating than we ever imagined, but the experience was also deeply moving. The generosity and passion shared during that visit left a lasting impression on all of us.

This trip to Sicily was not just about sightseeing; it was about forming connections and understanding the heart of the island. Laura and our guide Maria made sure we experienced Sicily from a local’s perspective, which made every moment feel so much more profound. We will always remember our time in this extraordinary place!” —Gina Melton

Read more reviews of Sicily trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO SICILY

The Silk Road: friendly people, a “wealth” of sites, lunch with a multigenerational family

Lyabi Hauz restaurant in Bukhara, Uzbekistan.

“The local people were extremely friendly. I felt extremely safe, even walking around at night…” Photo: Timothy Baker

“I have just returned from a wonderful trip to Uzbekistan focused on Silk Road history and culture. Zulya and her staff provided an excellent experience. The local people were extremely friendly. I felt extremely safe throughout the entire trip, even walking around at night.

The country has a wealth of amazing sites, without the crowds and the expense of Europe. Everything was very clean, from my hotel rooms to historical sites, mosques, and cities.

One of the highlights was having lunch with Zulya’s multigenerational family. I adore them all, especially her mother, who is in her 80s. She said that she has adopted me as her fifth son!” —Chris Ng

Read more reviews of Silk Road trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO THE SILK ROAD

India: joining in the community’s spring festival, pulled into a spontaneous engagement celebration

Ron Klausner, his wife, and two friends covered in paint at the Holi festival in India.

Ron Klausner, his wife, and two friends joined in the community’s Hindu festival of Holi.

“My wife and I are avid travelers and have visited over 70 countries, but we have always avoided going to India for fear of getting intestinal problems. We finally bit the bullet and decided to go, did not get sick, and loved India! The people, the people, the people.

We went for three weeks with another couple in March. Although we were between earning WOW Moments, I feel Sanjay made our entire trip a WOW Moment. In Varanasi we had private sunset and sunrise boat cruises on the Ganges River, and a sitar concert at the home of Ravi Shankar’s cousin. We also participated in Holi, where we celebrated spring by joining different groups of locals and covering each other with paint and water and then dancing together in joy.

In Jaipur we had dinner at the home of a very special family. They are royalty, but what makes them special is the parents have one biological child and adopted nine children from age 8 to 19! The children, all girls, were abandoned as babies because their biological parents wanted boys, not girls. This family is now raising them as their own. We ate, we sang, and we all danced together. What joy!

One of our most memorable moments occurred when we saw a bunch of women, all dressed in magnificent yellow, dancing on a side street. One of the women gestured for my wife to join her. The women were celebrating because one of them just had a daughter who got engaged. They went down the street knocking on doors, and neighbors kept joining. My wife had a wonderful time.

Without reservation, I implore you to visit India if you have not already done so.” —Ron Klausner

Read more reviews of India trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO INDIA

Cuba: immersive cultural experiences illustrate “the puzzle which makes up Cuba”

Compas dance troupe dancing and playing music in their rehearsal space, Havana, Cuba.

The arts embody the Cubans’ ability to “enjoy life wherever they can.” Photo: Terraversed

“We recently returned from our trip to Cuba, planned by Ana and Rob. It is difficult to lavish too much praise on this team! First, Rob called me within a day or so of my inquiry and spent at least 45 minutes on the phone with me, digging hard during our conversation to really understand our interests and how we should spend our time in their jam-packed itinerary. It was clear from the trip, that Rob and Ana heard every word and truly tailored our immersive Cuban visit to ensure that our time was focused on these personal interests. In fact, they included some visits to locations that I would not have thought to be interesting to me, but because of the exceptional experts they managed to have as our guides, we did indeed find them of great interest.

Our main guide throughout the trip was Raquel, and she was a wonderful and caring person, with an extraordinary knowledge of her country’s history, challenges and successes. She gave us an unflinching view of the challenges which the Cuban people have endured since the revolution, along with a taste of the tenacity and ability of her people to enjoy life whenever they can.

This tour was unlike any I have ever taken before (and there have been many). Instead, it felt like driving from place to place to visit with unique and gracious hosts that were anxious to share their specialties and skills with us. It was more like visiting a series of friends, than being on a tour of a foreign country. This was true from the dinner we had at the home of a former journalist, to the tour of the Cuban Art Musuem with the head of their educational unit. There are too many to spell out, but each was truly a unique experience which added to the puzzle which makes up Cuba. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Rob and Ana’s services again, or highly recommend them to a friend.” —Arthur Hermann

Read more reviews of Cuba trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO CUBA

Africa: visiting with the Maasai, meeting Nairobi elephant rehabbers, hunting with the Hadzabe

Dawn Critchley with her guide Duncan and a baby elephant at Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Kenya.

Traveler Dawn Critchley with her local guide and a baby elephant at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

“Just back from a marvelous trip as a solo traveler to East Africa—Kenya and Tanzania—put together by Cherri, Frankie, and Katie. My days were filled with such joy and wonder—words don’t do it justice. The people are so welcoming, kind, and genuinely happy.

My private visit to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi was such a unique and intimate experience. I learned about their mission of rescuing and rehabbing elephants and rhinos who have been orphaned (mainly by poaching) or injured. I was able to have a private encounter with the baby elephants as they were frolicking in the mud pools, ending up splattered in mud myself!

A visit to a Maasai village in Ngorongoro was so informative and truly amazing. The Maasai are some of the happiest people I’ve encountered.

A visit to the Lake Eyasi area and interactions with the Hadzabe, Datoga and Blacksmith tribes were truly eye-opening and humbling. I was fortunate to be able to go on a hunt in the bush with the Hadzabe and witness their superb skills with bow and arrow, then build a fire, and prepare their catch. They are one of the last hunter-gatherer tribes in Tanzania. They live truly one with nature.

Every day was special as well as an adventure.” —Dawn Critchley

Read more reviews of Africa trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO AFRICA

Peru: spending a day in the Lamay Village, and seeing how the people live in the high Andes

Audrey Moore with family and the Lamay community at the Sacred Valley in Peru.

“It was so special to make friends and see how people live a simpler life high in the Andes.”

“Our trip to Peru was one my family will remember forever. We started in the Amazon rainforest and saw so much wildlife at the Tambopata Research Center. This really felt like a special place, and we felt very far away from civilization. My kids loved the birds, monkeys and boat rides.

We absolutely loved our time in the Sacred Valley and Cusco. The resort at Sol y Luna was so nice that we had to force ourselves to leave to go adventuring each day. Our favorite day of the trip was the day we spent at the Lamay village. It was so special to make friends and see how people live a simpler life high in the Andes. We also loved our one-day hike on the Inca trail into Machu Picchu—incredible!

The locals treated us with such kindness everywhere we went. There is so much to see and do in Peru…10 days just wasn’t enough!” —Audrey Moore

Read more reviews of Peru trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO PERU

Romania: truffle hunting (and dining) with a forager guide, talking with caretakers for the synagogues and other “lovely locals”

Targu Mures Jewish synagogue in Romania.

Connecting with locals includes their places of worship, including this synagogue in Targu Mures. Photo: Timothy Baker

“My husband and I just returned from a 10-day trip to Romania. We spent most of our time in Transylvania, which is both scenic and uniquely interesting. Our major reason for traveling to this part of the world was to visit the city of Cluj, where my husband’s father lived before emigrating to the U.S. in the 1930s. Our trip planners, Raluca and Malvina, did a great job of incorporating this into our itinerary and also providing experiences that gave us a deeper appreciation of the overall history of Romania and Transylvania, particularly that of the Jews. It was very moving to visit the few synagogues that have been preserved and to meet the people who take care of them.

And it was extremely interesting to tour the medieval citadels and fortified churches that dot Transylvania and to spend time in the mostly preserved traditional Saxon village of Viscri. We felt transported back in time watching the horse drawn carts, geese, goats, sheep and cows that wander through the streets of this picturesque place, and we enjoyed the simple but delicious traditional foods that are truly farm-to-table. We also loved going truffle hunting and enjoying the truffle pasta dinner prepared for us by our truffle guide, as well as our beautiful horseback ride through lovely meadows and forests. And it was great to spend time chatting with the lovely local people we met who provided insights into various aspects of life in this intriguing country.”—Linda Green

Read more reviews of Romania trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO ROMANIA

Japan: learning to make classic fish dishes In the home of a fisherman’s wife, and exchanging life stories over the meal

Motonosumi Inari Shrine in Nagato, Japan.

“Motonosumi Inari Shrine’s 123 brilliant red torii gates to a cliff overlooking the Sea of Japan.”

“I am forever grateful to Andrea for helping me with designing my dream trip to Japan. Having lived in Japan as a child and had occasion to visit the country several times since, I knew that I was asking for a lot in wanting an off-the-beaten-path itinerary. I wanted to go where few tourists go and engage in activities that would be a challenge to arrange. There are almost too many highlights of my customized trip to Japan to even list, let alone describe, but here are a handful:

* Vaulting down through Motonosumi Inari Shrine’s 123 brilliant red torii gates to a cliff overlooking the Sea of Japan.

* Practicing ‘takigyo’ (waterfall meditation) with two Buddhist monks, by standing directly beneath a sacred waterfall—its strong cold water taking one’s breath away as it pelts one’s head and shoulders—before being revived and uplifted by its force.

* Meeting with so many artisans: potters in Hagi who showed me their hand-built kilns and exquisite Hagi ware; elderly basket weavers at a bamboo-basket-weaving studio exhibiting their exquisite baskets and demonstrating their craft; a glass-crystal-etching expert who instructed me in producing an etched crystal glass of my own; and masters of indigo dying who helped me create my own dyed tee-shirt in their studio workshop.

* In the home of a fisherman’s wife, learning how to make several classic fish dishes and then sharing a delightful meal with her and my guide—three older women exchanging intimate life stories while dining on the dishes we’d prepared.

* Strolling through Kyoto’s Gion district and enjoying a private tea ceremony and dance performance there by a young maiko (an apprentice geisha), and being given the opportunity to ask her candid questions about her life and her art.

A huge thank-you to Andrea’s team for managing to make all of this happen for me.” —Lynn Savarese

Read more reviews of Japan trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO JAPAN

Copenhagen: watching furniture makers and artists at work, Easter dinner in a local home…

Cari Bender and her family with the dinner’s local hosts in Copenhagen, Denmark.

“We just returned from a wonderful trip to Copenhagen to visit our daughter who is studying abroad there. Mads helped us plan a lovely vacation where we got to explore all over the area. We learned about Danish food on a food tour and loved seeing the city from a private boat excursion along the canal.

Our favorite day was the Danish design day! We love Danish design, and Mads arranged for us to have a private tour of a furniture manufacturer and meet some current local artists in their own studio. It was a special and memorable day. My son and I probably took 1,000 photographs, and we all loved learning about the history of prominent furniture design. We had a terrific hotel right in Nyhavn, the famous canal with the colored buildings that was centrally located and super charming.

The other incredibly memorable adventure was Dine with Danes, where we had a truly special evening at the home of a local couple. They prepared a Danish Easter dinner for us—they must have cooked for two days! We simply adored them and we had a wonderful evening together. It was very special.” —Cari Bender

Read more reviews of Denmark trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO DENMARK

New Zealand: one-on-one time with Maori artisans…

Maori green jade Koru pendant on wood log.

Maori jade Koru pendant. Photo: Shutterstock

“We just completed an absolutely fabulous month-long trip to New Zealand. With his extensive relationships, especially with the Maori, Jean-Michel crafted a truly unique trip that we would never have been able to create on our own. Besides cruising Milford Sound, we had three major interests for our trip: interacting with Maori to learn about their culture, going to the MacKenzie-designated Dark Sky region to stargaze, and being on a glacier.

Instead of going to touristy places to see the Maori, Jean-Michel set us up with several unbelievable one-on-one days with individual Maori, including Tom Loughlin, who cooked us a fabulous traditional Hangi meal in the ground at his 5,000-acre wilderness cabin; Delani Brown, a famous master carver who creates enormous masterpieces of complexly intricate carved wood scenes of Maori culture; and Bevan Climo, a master pounamu (New Zealand greenstone or jade) carver, who took us to his tribe’s portion of the Arahura River, where I found a lovely piece of greenstone!

For our Dark Sky experience, Jean-Michel arranged for a privately guided astral viewing at the Matuka Lodge in Twizel where we were staying. The stargazing was fabulous, and to not to have to do the 3-hour roundtrip to the St. John’s Observatory was priceless.

As for the glacier, Jean-Michel again came up with an amazing intimate experience in the Whitcombe Valley, instead of the over-touristy Franz Josef Glacier. Matt, our helicopter pilot, came with over 30 years of flying experience and was even the pilot for Tom Cruise when he was filming in the region! Matt created a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with views of numerous glaciers and glacier lakes, highlighted by a landing at a glacier that we walked up to and sat on! Talk about being at the top of the world and having your dream come true!” —Mary Lou Voytko

Read more reviews of New Zealand trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO NEW ZEALAND

Spain: lunch in the private quarters of a castle with the owner…

Travelers Lorin and Jeremy Seidman with their family met the WOW Lister Virginia Irurita in Madrid, Spain.

Lorin and Jeremy Seidman with their family and WOW Lister Virginia Irurita in Madrid.

“Virginia and her team planned an incredible trip to Spain for our family, with the kind of experiences that we’re quite sure no other travel agent would have had access to. Our teenage kids’ favorite part of the trip was a visit to Almodovar Castle, near Sevilla. The owner of the castle, Eva Morejon, greeted us upon our arrival, and then invited us to have lunch with her in the family’s private quarters of the castle.

We sat in Eva’s dining room enjoying the most delicious authentic Spanish cuisine, which was cooked by her family’s personal chef, while she told us the history of the castle. She then took us on a private tour of the castle, including parts that were used for the filming of Game of Thrones.” —Lorin Seidman

Read more reviews of Spain trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO SPAIN

Norway: lunch with a Sami elder, dogsledding with an Iditarod racer…

Traveler Kathye Faries with a Sami reindeer herder, in the village of Maze, Norway.

Kathye Faries with Johan, a Sami reindeer herder, in the Norwegian village of Maze. Photo: Traveler Jim Braun

“Seeing the Aurora Borealis has been on my bucket list for ages and it was time to make it happen! With Wendy’s help we were connected with Torunn, who planned a terrific 10-day adventure for us in northern Norway in February, 2024. I worked with Karin Andresen on many of the details and Karin did a wonderful job too. My focus was seeing the lights (we saw them twice, yippee!), but the entire trip turned out to be way better than we expected due to the fun activities Torunn and Karin planned for us.

We started in Alta, well north of the Arctic Circle, and stayed at a great property outside of the town in a beautiful setting on the banks of a frozen river. We went snowshoeing (easier than I thought it would be) and ice fishing with Kelle of Glod Explorer, and his husky Bruno. Jim caught an Arctic Char so our lunch was as fresh is it could get! Sitting in a lavvu, around a fire, sipping hot chocolate and eating fresh-caught fish was a real treat. We also took a snowmobile ride at night at Bjornfjeld Mountain Lodge. We were cozy in a beautiful mountaintop glass igloo, cooked our dinner over a fire and looked for the lights. On our last day in Alta we spent several hours dog sledding in the beautiful Finnmark forest and on frozen lakes, which was one of the highlights of the trip. Our guide, Hannah, ran the Iditarod two years ago and was so expert on the trails. We loved our day with her and her dog teams.

While en route to our next destination (we saw moose, reindeer and foxes along the way), we had lunch with Johan, a Sami elder, in the village of Maze. His family has raised and herded reindeer for generations and his sons are poised to take care of the business someday. We learned so much from him about his profession, about the Sami, and got to meet some of his reindeer. Fascinating.

In Karasjok we stayed at one of the most unique, exceptional small properties we’ve ever seen. Every cabin and all of the furniture in each of the 7 cabins has been built by hand from natural materials. This place is a hidden gem, set in the forest and truly magical. On property were 45 Alaskan Huskies who were very friendly and loved “cuddles” from everyone. One of our days was spent with Magrit, a Sami woman who has spent her entire life raising and herding reindeer. We went with her by snowmobile, up high in the mountains, to see and feed some of her family’s herd. We spent time in the forest around a warm fire and she shared stories with us about her life. On our last day there, I went dog sledding with the Alaskan Huskies—it was an exciting ride where the dogs broke a new trail in deep, newly fallen snow on the frozen lake. It was a wonderful experience I will never forget.

The last few days of the trip were spent in Oslo where our expert guide took us to the Nobel Peace Prize Museum (very, very moving), and the National Museum (which houses Edvard Munch’s “The Scream”). We saw several contemporary buildings—the Library and the Opera House—watched some young men run from the sauna and jump into the 32-degree water of the harbor (yikes!); and toured the Vigeland Sculpture Park.

The Aurora was as wondrous as I expected and we were so lucky to see it. Northern Norway is a beautiful part of the world with clean water, clean air, warm and friendly people and so accessible to the outdoors. When we asked local guides (who grew up in Alta and Karasjok) if they ever wanted to move away, their answer was NO!!!! We could understand why.

The trip was so smooth due to Torunn and Karin’s expertise. Prior to and during the trip we made a few itinerary adjustments and all went perfectly. All of the guides and ground transportation services were there when and where they were supposed to be, and the outfitters and lodging choices were a great fit for us. We are so glad we saw the lights but we are also so appreciative of the adventures we experienced on this wonderful, enchanting trip.” —Kathye Faries

Read more reviews of Norway trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO EAST AFRICA

Belize: “A local family served us a traditional Mayan lunch, nouvelle-style. And Patricia met us there for lunch…”

Our travelers Salena and Allen Kern with WOW Lister Patricia Johnson in Belize.

WOW Lister Patricia Johnson joined Salena and Allen Kern for lunch one day.

“My criteria was a direct flight from Newark, warmth, a place we’d never been to with lots to do if we wished, and a Wendy Perrin advisor. It took about a minute to find Belize and Patricia. And we were off…. Patricia recommended a few places to stay, and two of the resorts (one in the jungle and the other on the beach) were owned by Francis Ford Coppola. Who knew? Not I, for sure. Well, my husband was an extra in Apocalypse Now many years ago and that was that. He was thrilled to be seeing what Coppola had created in Belize. Both resorts were beautiful but Blancaneaux Lodge was one of the nicest places I have stayed in my life.

We climbed ruins, rafted through a cave that should have been a cathedral, and visited an entrepreneurial coffee “factory” amongst other things. Most important to me, however, was that we got to know something about the current economy of this young country and much about its varied cultures. On our first full day, we were surprised by our WOW Moment. At this most beautiful site, overlooking a series of waterfalls, we were served lunch by a local family (now, Patricia did know that I am a bit of a foodie) who served us a traditional Mayan lunch, nouvelle-style. The family has a catering company called U Janal Masewal, Ancient Recipes for a Modern World. That sort of sums up my worldview too. We were happy! And Patricia met us there for lunch. Thank you, Patricia and Wendy.

This lunch opened our eyes to what was happening in the local communities. The Mayan culture isn’t stuck in the past or lost, as it is in Chiapas, Mexico, where I visited last year. The Belizeans are creating a wonderful and mixed culture ripe for all sorts of tourism. Our week in Belize was full of surprises. I would recommend it to older people like us, to young families, well, to anyone who likes travel.” —Salena Kern

Read more reviews of Belize trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO BELIZE

East Africa: hunting with bushmen, visiting a local women’s organization…

Traveler taking a selfie with with local kids during a community visit to the Mukundusi Village in Tanzania.

Traveler Jeannie Mullen snapped a selfie with local kids during a community visit to the Mukundusi Village in Tanzania.

“I just returned from a trip to East Africa planned by Cherri and her team. The lodges and their phenomenal staffs, the wildlife, the guides, the available local activities, the holiday and birthday celebrations along with numerous personal touches…I cannot say enough about the locals that I met and the recurring personal interactions I had.

Normally I schedule every day of a trip down to the minute. Since this trip was so long (and as I get older!) I left some time open in the itinerary in the event that I just needed to chill here and there. Doing so enabled me to schedule some additional, non-game-viewing activities at each location which really enriched my overall experience. Highlights included: Following bushmen on a game hunt (and taste-testing the grilled results!) in Tanzania, participating in an anti-poaching demonstration (I played the poacher and hid out in the bush) at Sirikoi in Kenya, multiple community/village visits, and a visit to an inspiring women’s organization (Ride 4 A Woman) in Uganda.

On New Year’s Eve I was at &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge in Tanzania. At the conclusion of a tribal dance ritual at the north lodge, we all followed their torch-lit procession (singing, chanting and dancing the entire way) down to the south lodge where the Maasai then put on a spectacular dance demonstration which told the story of their customs and rituals.” —Jeannie Mullen

Read more reviews of East Africa trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

Italy: fishing and cheesemaking with locals, watching glass artisans at work…

Scenic overlook of the Tyrrhenian Sea along the Amalfi Coast of Italy. Photo: Shutterstock

“From the moment we were picked up in Rome to the time we were dropped at the airport after 15 days in this beautiful country, we would have changed nothing! The food and wine were incredible, the hotels were spectacular and the guides and their tours were unforgettable. While the trip was overall the most memorable experience of our lifetimes, there are a few things that we cannot go without highlighting:

1. The boat ride along the Amalfi Coast was nothing short of spectacular, and our captain and first mate made it truly enjoyable. Swimming in the Mediterranean Sea is something we will never forget;

2. The cooking class and lunch with Mrs. Luciana and Maria Cristina were so incredibly enjoyable and delicious that we wished we could have stayed forever;

3. Watching Benedetto create his masterpiece of mozzarella and burrata cheese and tasting the delicious virgin olive oils, followed by the private tour of his amazing lemon orchard, was an unforgettable experience.

4. Our visit to Murano and the Vetreria Estevan Rossetto glass factory was inspirational. To see the centuries-old workmanship of glass making and learning the history of this profession was incredible. We actually purchased artworks made by two of the most prominent glass artisans known to Italy, Walter Furan and Amedeo Rossetto. Our guides, Daria and Piero, were so knowledgeable and spent hours teaching us about glass making and the history behind it. Piero is the grandson of Walter Furan, and being able to purchase one of his grandfather’s pieces was truly special.

5. And finally, only to keep this review from being too lengthy, trout fishing with Luca. While I did not catch a monster, the beautiful little brown trout I did catch brought a smile to my face, and the lunch we shared and our time together was terrific.

We would like to thank Wendy, Maria Gabriella, Maria Cristina, our fabulous guides, our amazing drivers, and all of the employees and staff at the hotels in which we stayed for their incredible hospitality. We cannot wait for our next WOW experience.” —Lizzy and Jay Bryan

Read more reviews of Italy trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO ITALY

Oman and Jordan: “It is always good to learn more, have more awareness and to become better global citizens…”

Amy Avers and her husband having coffee and dates with Omani locals.

Amy Evers and her husband talking world politics with Omani locals over coffee and dates.

“Our trip to Oman and Jordan October 14th- Nov. 1st, 2023, was extraordinary! Even with the slight unease regarding the war, while in Oman and Jordan, all was well and safe. There did seem to be some extra military presence in Amman but that didn’t interfere with our trip. We are very happy we did not cancel!

Out trip planner, Daniel, did a wonderful job talking through everything with us ahead of time. He was honest about his thoughts about things that are worth it and that aren’t. Some of the highlights of our trip were:

Oman: Eating and drinking dates and Omani coffee with locals, dinner with a local family in Muscat, learning about the culture, talking with a local at the Grand Mosque to learn more about Islam, swimming and exploring Wadi Shaab and Wadi Bani Khalid, dune bashing in Wahiba Sands, the via ferrata course in Jebel Akhdar, biking down the mountains in Jabel Shams, the random barber shop experience for my husband to get his beard trimmed (hilarious and wonderful cultural experience), and the balcony hike in Jebel Shams.

Jordan: Petra during the day/night and the back door hike in, SCUBA diving the wreck in the Red Sea (not organized by Dan), ‘soft’ canyoning in Wadi Al Mujib, floating in the Dead Sea (so unique and funny!), and discussions about current issues with our guide.

I feel very lucky to have experienced this trip, especially in today’s political climate. It is always good to learn more, have more awareness and to become better global citizens. Thank you!” —Amy Evers

Read more reviews of Oman and Jordan trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO OMAN AND JORDAN

Morocco: learning history and culture from scholars and artisans…

Our traveler's guide outside his family home in Tangier's Medina, Morocco.

Milinda Martin’s guide AbdulRahman outside his family home in Tangier’s Medina. Photo: Traveler Milinda Martin

“It had been 20 years since I had visited Morocco, and I have to say, the country is going through such a positive time. People are happy there! The government is building tons of affordable housing, redoing the waterfront areas, and spiffing up all the cities. It’s a good time to visit.

Thanks to Radia and her team, I was able to indulge my desire to learn more about the history of this country, especially the Berber culture, the invasion of the Arabs, and the long history of the Moors and Jews. Radia did not disappoint; all of my guides were experts and very willing to discuss the benefits and challenges of being such a rich land where everyone wants to be. My guide in Tangier, AbdulRahman, was OUTSTANDING. He was born in the Medina and his family still lived there, and he was able to share stories of how Tangier has changed over the centuries with all the invaders. He shared the local delicacies — mint tea and amazing cookies — with me, and we truly felt like friends by the time I moved on to Chefchaouen.

With Radia’s guidance, I visited Casablanca, and the amazing Hassan II mosque, with a Muslim scholar who could really immerse me in the religion, far beyond the 5 pillars. The trip ended in Marrakesh, where I had the most unique experience of learning how to make mosaics. This wasn’t a “tourist activity”; this was a visit to a gentleman’s workshop where we cut the tiles, arranged the mosaics and eventually plastered the mosaics into place. Radia provided a translator because the artist — having mastered this trade 40 years ago — did not speak English.

And I have to give a strong shout-out to my driver, Rachid. Throughout my tour, he was always on time, always kind, always conversational, and a great driver to boot. This is what I like about planning with Wendy Perrin: meeting the people and seeing life like a local. We visited the communal bakery and the hammam, two vital components of life for every Moroccan. I was able to go hiking in the Atlas Mountains, obtain early entry to the Majorelle Gardens, and have someone guide me through the mazes of the Medinas. The riad in Marrakesh was truly divine! Unlike other tours that whisk you here and there, in international hotels, where you never meet a local, Radia and her team ensured that I felt like a Moroccan from the very start.” —Milinda Martin

Read more reviews of Morocco trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO MOROCCO

Norway: meeting a local fisherman, reindeer herder, and even an acclaimed actress

Jeannie Mullen suited up to fish for king crab and halibut with boat captain Albert.

“Just returned from a solo trip to Norway September 11-20, 2023. After my pet sitter bailed on me at the last minute, I reached out to Jan to see what he could do to adjust the 3-week driving itinerary through Norway that he and I had just finalized. Jan was very flexible, gave me several options to choose from and before long we had whittled a 21-day trip down to 10, maintaining the main focus of trip…seeing the northern lights.

I started out at Sorrisniva Wilderness Lodge in Alta, above the Arctic Circle in the northern fjords. By day I was entertained with king-crab fishing in Storekorsnes, lunch with and storytelling by a local reindeer herder, a visit to the nearby UNESCO site featuring northern Europe’s largest concentration of petroglyphs (rock art) made by hunter-gathers dating back 2000-7000 years, and a boat ride on the Alta River with Tor, one of the lodge owners. Each night after dinner I was driven to different locations to search for the lights…. It was such a great experience. I had been coached beforehand that not everyone gets to see the lights every night and sometimes not at all over a period of several nights. Fortunately I saw them each of the four nights that I was there and got some great photos. On my last night in Alta I came back early enough to see the lights with a cup of hot chocolate from the warmth of my bed. It was an experience that I will never forget.

I had shared with Jan that I had a very broad range of interests coming into this trip, so the tenor and tempo changed quickly when I arrived back in Oslo. At my request, it was all about art, architecture, history and culture. In a very fun surprise, I was treated to a WOW Moment as I walked out of the elevator my first morning there. Jan knew from our trip-planning discussions that I am involved with a professional theatre company in my hometown and had made arrangements for his sister-in-law, Ingjerd Egeberg, a Norwegian actress (and national treasure), to spend an hour with me prior to the start of my planned day. Over coffee we had a lovely discussion about the theatre and then walked across the street together to the National Theatre for a backstage tour. It was truly delightful! Thank you again, Jan and Wendy! And THEN the day started.… The museums, art, architecture and parks in Oslo were beautiful…the Munch (The Scream) Museum, City Hall, the Opera House, the Deichman Bjorvika (the world’s best new public library), the Nobel Peace Center, the Harbour Promenade in Oslo Fjord, the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the Vigeland Sculpture Park. The next day was spent away from the city at the Kistefos Museum in Jevnaker, one of the most important outdoor sculpture parks for contemporary art.

And then it was time to head home. I cannot say enough about Wendy’s suggestion to use Jan.… His detailed planning, choice of hotels, guides, drivers, and restaurant suggestions were all spot-on. I enjoyed myself so much on this trip that I had Jan plan a 10-day itinerary to Denmark for the fast-approaching Thanksgiving holidays. And next summer I’ll work in the driving portion of the Norway trip that I missed out on this year.” —Jeannie Mullen

Read more reviews of Norway trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO POLAND AND AUSTRIA

Poland & Austria: master classes in amber jewelry, pierogis, Christmas ornaments…

Beautiful Krakow market square, Poland, Europe.

Krakow market square in Poland. Photo: Shutterstock

“Gwen knows we have traveled the world on all seven continents. Many of our trips (at least eighteen) have been curated by Wendy’s trip specialists. Gwen knows we increasingly value experiences over mere sightseeing. This itinerary included many hands-on and personal experiences. In Gdansk, we visited an amber workshop and created our own amber jewelry using the workshop’s professional tools overseen by a friendly jeweler. We took home the two amber pendants we made.

In Warsaw, Gwen had another wonderful special experience for us: a visit with an artisanal nalewka (pronounced na lef ka) producer. This cordial is made in many homes. But this producer elevates the quality to the nth degree. Made of macerated fruits (or flowers or pine shoots or even milk), water, alcohol and sugar, the mixture sits in huge glass jars in his backyard for at least ten months, then matures in huge plastic barrels for at least three years before bottling. While visiting with this fascinating man, we tasted twelve of his varieties. We brought home two bottles and wish we’d brought a lot more.

In Krakow, we had a great lesson on how to make one of Poland’s national foods, pierogis (filled dumplings.) The private class was in the home of the woman who runs the annual Krakow Pierogi Festival. We had such a good time with her that we stayed far beyond our scheduled time.

Also in Krakow, we visited a small workshop that makes hand-painted glass Christmas ornaments. My husband and I each painted our own ornaments with direction from the chief painter. We ended up bringing a dozen or so ornaments home. In Vienna, we had a great food safari that took us off the tourist circuit and introduced us to stores and producers of traditional Viennese foods.” —Jan Heininger

Read more reviews of Poland and Austria trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

Italy: Palio horse race with local family, outing with a truffle hunter and lunch at his farmhouse…

Palio horse race in Italy. Photo: Traveler Jessica Tolmach

“Four special highlights that Maria secured for our group during our Tuscany stay: A spectacularly situated apartment in Siena overlooking the town square for perfect viewing of the wild, medieval, spectacular Palio horse race and dinner with the family who graciously opened their home, shared wine, food and stories of the history of the races over the centuries.

Another highlight was an outing with a truffle hunter and his dog into the hills and woods where the dog found truffles and after we were hosted at their farmhouse overlooking the valley while they served us a multi-course lunch of truffle-focused dishes that were scrumptious, along with their own wines. We also adored a private tour and lunch prepared for us at a little-known but spectacular vineyard in Chianti, with tastings paired with each course.

And, last but not least, we will all remember forever our lunch at an agriturismo farm with a most generous host and chef that happily went on for hours, on a glorious afternoon, on their patio on the edge of their fields, where we were served mind-blowing grilled meats and the best lasagna and tiramisu any of us has ever tasted. My boys wanted to stay and work on the farm and never come home! And I got his grandmother’s recipes!” —Jessica Tolmach

Read more reviews of Italy trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO ITALY

Croatia, Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland: cooking lesson in the chef’s home, charming family-run inn…

Lisa Redburn during a cooking lesson at Tatjana Ciciliani’s home in Trojir, Croatia. Photo: Tom Redburn

“Lisa and I have had a lot of wonderful adventures in our more than 50 years together, but for our 50th wedding anniversary trip to Italy, Croatia, Slovenia and Switzerland, the extraordinary planning of Claudia and Luisa took our travel experience to a whole new level. It’s true that Europe was already getting overrun with tourists during our six-week trip, but we rarely felt it because time after time Claudia and Luisa arranged guides and outings that took us away from the crowds and to hidden corners we never would have found on our own.

There are too many highlights to include all of them, but some of our most memorable moments were a gastronomic walking tour of Bologna with Giacomo, a guided E-bike ride along the Appian Way in Rome with Gioia, who spontaneously added in a visit to the multi-layered Church of San Clemente when we expressed interest in it, a guided cable car ride and walk to the top of Anacapri with Melania, and two hikes in the Dolomites with Paola, who revised her plans to reflect our own capacities for strenuous walking (there’s a theme here: nearly all our best guides were women). And that’s just Italy.

In Croatia and Slovenia, we enjoyed a guided walk up Mt. Srd above Dubrovnik, where two women from Piknik Dubrovnik had set up an extraordinary sunset picnic dinner just for us, two guided trips (one by E-bike, the other walking) in the backcountry of the islands of Korcula and Hvar that both included amazing private lunches far from the madding crowds, and an extraordinary tour by the charismatic Mario Bartulovic of his family’s winery and steep-sided vineyard on one of our only rainy days. We nearly cancelled but are so thankful that we didn’t. We also had a food shopping and cooking session with the charming Tatjana Ciciliani at her home in Trojir, near Split.

And the discovery of the trip, for us, was Slovenia, where we dined at the famous Hisa Franko (a 3 1/2-hour, 18-course tasting menu from chef Ana Ros), with a stay at tiny Chalets Nebesa, which is not to be missed if you are anywhere in the area. Four-room Nebesa (reserve far in advance!) is owned and run by Ana’s charming mother, father, sister and brother-in-law, and enjoys an extraordinary view in the Julian Alps over Kobarid, where there are still trenches from the devastating fighting along a front of World War I.

I could go on and on, but suffice it to say that, with only one or two exceptions, every guide was sensational, just about every accommodation was terrific, and nearly all the reserved dinners were a delight. And that’s not to mention our WOW Moment from Wendy of a lunch and wine tasting at the extraordinary BIBICh Winery, on a day when we traveled from Split to Zadar, right after visiting Krka National Park.

Luisa and Claudia took my idea of following in some of the footsteps of our original honeymoon trip to Europe (10 months on $6,000 in 1973-74 to Italy, Yugoslavia, Austria, Greece, Switzerland and France) and built it into an equally memorable highlight in our lives together. We spent our actual anniversary at a pension in the car-free Fex Valley in the Engadin that was one of the top places we stayed on our honeymoon. Our trip lived up to everything I had been dreaming about since we first thought of the idea more than two years in advance.” —Tom Redburn

Read more reviews of Central Europe trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO CENTRAL EUROPE

Norway: learning from locals about fishing, reindeer hunting, village life…

Beautiful Nature Norway natural landscape aerial photography. lovatnet lake.

Lovatnet Lake, Norway. Photo: Shutterstock

“Torunn quickly grasped our interests, desires, travel style, and preferences. She promised to connect us to ‘the real Norway.’ This came to mean experiencing the spectacular environment, meeting people of all kinds, and learning about the Norwegian way of life.

The people Torunn arranged for us to meet at various venues are special and memorable. They were warm, welcoming, informative, and above all, interesting. Among them is Sven, the entrepreneurial owner of Knutholmen in Kalvag, who works harder to please his clients than anyone we have met. He became an instant friend.

Fjord skipper Roy taught us about commercial fishing and graciously shared much of his life story, helping us learn what growing up in remote Norway is all about. Driver Per delighted in taking us to see a replica Viking ship. Dinner with Edith and Jon at their hilltop ‘summer pasture’ cabin near Oye was a memorable experience filled with stories about Jon’s longtime mink business and special Norwegian delicacies to try, topped off with Edith’s handmade chocolates.

Fjord skipper Daniel took us to his family guest house at Trandal, where we were thrilled by the famous swing and braved deer-burgers and brown cheese ice cream, both delicious. Guide Britt, also an osteopath, was unusually informative and interesting. She took us on a delightful hike, showed us around the Tafjord village where she grew up, described her annual reindeer hunt, and escorted us to a friend’s guest house for a delicious lunch of deer lasagna.

Our hotels were superb and often historical. Without exception, they were situated in gorgeous surroundings and well managed with great service. Remarkable hotel staffers came from all over Norway and beyond. Each hotel was unique and memorable but our favorites were Knutholmen in Kalvag, Hotel Union Oye, and the amazing Storfjord Hotel. As is evident, Torunn did indeed connect us to ‘the real Norway.’ We will long remember this spectacular trip and the special people we met.”—Bill and Lynn Martin

Read more reviews of Norway trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO NOVA SCOTIA & NEWFOUNDLAND

Northern Ireland & Ireland: making soda bread, helping shear sheep, a lesson in hurling…

Sheep in a green field in Ireland. Photo: Shutterstock

“It was Jonathan’s strong suggestion that we include Northern Ireland in our itinerary instead of just Ireland, and we are glad that we did. Our experience in Northern Ireland was the soul of our trip, and we could never have understood the country without that experience and the help of our guide for three days while there, Mark Murphy. His authenticity was palpable, in addition to being a consummate professional.

For example, he not only took us through a small Catholic village to watch children learning the Irish sport of hurling on a field surrounded by Irish national flags, but then took out his equipment so we could all give the game a try on an adjacent field. Every experience with Mark was like that, including his lessons on tasting Irish Whiskey at Bushmills and getting me the opportunity to hold the great Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy’s PGA championship trophy at his home golf club in Belfast!

We also spent a morning at Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen, making (and eating) delicious soda bread, along with other delectables. Like all the folks we encountered, Tracey was an absolute delight, and we loved getting to go out to the countryside and spend some quality time with people who were so happy to share their lives with us.

We then went on to spend three days in Dublin, staying at a classic property called The Shelbourne. This gorgeous masterpiece offered impeccable service and a perfect location. One of the benefits of working through Jonathan are some small perks offered to you at each of the hotels, and we enjoyed oysters and Guinness in the beautiful lobby bar at the Shelbourne one early evening before heading to dinner.

Galway was our next stop, and we used that as the base for our exploration of the Connemara National Park and the Cliffs of Moher. Another absolute highlight of the trip is the Killary Sheep Farm. It’s on an absolutely beautiful fjord, and it’s fascinating to watch the sheepdogs in action and to participate in shearing the wool off the sheep. Tom, a third-generation proprietor, is eager to share his place, and it helps keep the lights on for these family businesses.

Our last stop was Dromoland Castle. At this point we had been on the move constantly for 10 days, and I think it was brilliant planning to let us decompress at this gorgeous castle for a few days before returning home.” —Michael Kelberman

Read more reviews of Ireland trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO IRELAND

Oman: Bedouin women, pottery artisans, wedding prep with an Omani bride, meals in new friends’ homes…

Dhow boat Cruise in Arabian Peninsula, boat on blue water with desert mountains in background

A dhow cruise off the coast of Oman. Photo: Shutterstock

“My friend and I are active 60-plus-year-old women who enjoy traveling and immersing ourselves into the countries that we visit. We don’t want to just see a UNESCO World Heritage Site but want to meet the locals and see how they live—which is what we get when we use Wendy’s WOW List travel specialists.

We flew to Muscat and traveled around Oman for about two weeks. Dan listened to what we wanted to see and experience, and he or his office was with us via email, phone, and/or text every day of our visit. Our guide, Fahad, heard I was a potter and took us to a pottery factory. He took us to his brother’s home for a typical Omani lunch and to see how they live. At this house we met his newborn niece and received the traditional gift of Frankincense. Fahad also took us to his friend’s home who was getting married that evening. We spent a few hours with the women in their traditional garb and experienced their welcome foods… dates, coffee, apples, oranges, chickpeas and other delicacies.

We also went to a local family’s home for another typical Omani meal on the floor and got to speak with their children. The father worked in the Ministry and the wife worked in the travel business setting up trips for Omanis. Quite stimulating conversations!

We visited souqs, fish markets, experienced the dhow-making process, lunched at the Chedi Hotel (a must!), visited mosques, learned about the Frankincense tree, swam in Hawiyat Najm Sink Hole (a must!), drove through wadis, learned about the date trees, photographed wild donkeys, had our feet ‘cleaned’ in the Sink Hole by the little fish, rode camels in the desert, met and dressed like Bedouin women, dune bashed in Wahiba Sands, experienced a sand storm, saw how Kumas are made, played soccer with an eight-year-old, saw goats climb trees, enjoyed a warm herbal compress massage at the Alila Jabal Akhdar (our favorite hotel!), had an impromptu donkey ride, went grocery shopping at the Hypermarket, and snorkeled with sea turtles in the Daymaniyat Islands (a must!).

We felt so welcomed in Oman and felt that the Omani people were kind, interesting and curious about us. It was another WONDERFUL adventure using Wendy’s travel specialists!” —Maureen Ferrari

Read more reviews of Oman trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO OMAN

Colombia: a gallery opening with eminent artists, a private cooking class, a salsa dancing lesson…

View of Journalist's Park with Monserrate and the Candelaria district of Bogota, Colombia

Bogota, Colombia, is an easy nonstop flight from New York City. Photo: Shutterstock

“Contrary to what people may think based on past history, Colombia was very safe. Our trip started in Bogota with an easy direct day flight from New York. Three nights there allowed us to explore the city, its food, and the amazing gold museum. Boris arranged a private art tour which included access to a private opening of the works of the famous Colombian artist Jim Amaral, where we met him and his more famous wife Olga de Amaral. For a change in pace, we then spent a night in Villa de Leyva, a national heritage site with a stop in Zipaquira to see the spectacular underground salt cathedral.

Next stop was Medellin, with visits to Comuna 13, with an understanding of conflict and cacao, and a visit to a large orchid collection. Four nights in the coffee country, staying in a wonderful hacienda, allowed us to explore that area, including a rafting trip, a visit to a coffee plantation, and a day out with an excellent birding guide. The final stop was Cartagena, where we stayed in the Casa San Augustin in the middle of the old city; great for walking around the old areas with activities such as a rum and chocolate tasting, a private cooking class in one of the best restaurants, and a salsa dancing lesson. An easy 5-hour direct day flight took us back to New York. Colombia is a country well worth a visit—even though it does not seem to be on the radar screens of many of our acquaintances—and Boris and his team are a great asset for organizing a diverse and interesting trip.” —Tony Ford-Hutchinson

Read more reviews of Colombia trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO COLOMBIA

Southeast Asia: being blessed by the family elders in a local home, a sunrise breakfast with saffron-robed monks…

Ancient statues outside South Gate of Angkor Thom at sunset in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Sunset at Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Photo: Shutterstock

“We just returned from a fabulous three-week-plus trip to Thailand, Laos, Viet Nam, and Cambodia, organized for us by Sandy. While we have traveled a great deal, this trip was among the best, if not THE best, trip we’ve taken. The diversity and specialness of our experiences made it stand out.

Like Napoleon’s army, we travel on our stomachs, and the food we had on this trip was extraordinary. One evening in Laos we went to the home of our guide, who Sandy has worked closely with for years. We helped prepare dinner, were blessed by the family elders in a Baci ceremony for success on our journey, ate the delicious food we had helped cook, and danced and sang with the family. Another night in Cambodia, we ate at a local village restaurant. With travel to Cambodia down due to the pandemic, it’s a great time to visit, and we were the only people at the restaurant. After a foot massage and passion fruit mojito, we were escorted to our table overlooking vibrant green rice fields while being serenaded by lovely music. In Hanoi, we went to Bun Cha Sinh Tu and had the famous soup it’s known for. It was table-pounding good. And our Vespa food tour of Saigon, which Sandy had strongly suggested, was both delicious and terrifying. Driving a motorbike in Saigon should be an Olympic sport, and we just rode!

Our excellent guides in Laos and Viet Nam shared with us the experiences of their families during the War and recounted working with American veterans who returned years later, as well as a reporter who had covered it. These personal and moving stories touched us and helped us better understand the profound effect of the War on the people who lived through it.

In Cambodia, we went to a Buddhist temple at 5:30 in the morning and meditated. Afterward we were showered with lotus petals as part of a blessing ceremony and had breakfast at the monastery as the sun rose. Early one morning in Laos, we gave sticky rice to saffron-robed monks who extended their begging bowls to us. Through this daily ritual, the monks demonstrate their vows of poverty and humility. Our guide took us to a quiet place where her family normally gives alms, avoiding other tourists.

It’s hard to encapsulate all we saw and did because there was so much: seeing the temples of Angkor, kayaking in Halong Bay, boating on the Saigon River, biking through Hoi An. Part of what made this trip so good was the flexibility we had in determining what we would do and not do each day. We had great guidance and suggestions from Sandy, but he emphasized this was our trip. Thoughtful planning and flexibility helped make this the trip of a lifetime.” —Catherine Mathis

Read more reviews of Cambodia trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO CAMBODIA

Bali: visiting farmers, playing instruments with village musicians…

“Having never been to Indonesia before, we told Diane the types of activities we enjoyed and she devised a custom itinerary that suited us perfectly. We spent an exciting day rafting down the Ayung river in Ubud and enjoyed a scenic guided hike to two beautiful waterfalls in the northern part of the island.

We also enjoyed a visit to a Balinese farming village where we got to sample Balinese cuisine and meet the lovely Balinese people who call this area their home. A highlight we’ll always remember is the live Balinese music and dancing which were performed for our enjoyment. We were shy, to be honest, at first. But by the end of the performance we actually got up there and played the drums and cymbals! These are the types of experiences that make travel so worthwhile. We’ll never forget it—and we have Diane to thank for that!” —Joe McBrine

Read more reviews of Bali trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO BALI

Belize: meeting fishermen, organic farmers, Mayan artisans at a women’s cooperative…

a fishing guide in Belize poles the boat into position to intercept a school of fish that would have been scared off by the engine.

A fisherman in Belize. Photo: Timothy Baker

“Rachael and Patricia curated a wonderful 17 days for us in Belize. The accommodations were first-rate, beautiful, and serene. At The Lodge at Chaa Creek, no matter where we stood, the view was picture-perfect. Further, at each of the five places we stayed, the service matched the setting. We were treated very well. Trip highlights were the ancient Mayan sites of Tikal and Xunantunich, Che Chem Ha Cave, a visit to the San Antonio Women’s Group Center, and a back street food tour in San Pedro.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we were able to meet, spend time with, and learn from many wonderful people. Gonzo, Andrea, and Calliandra of Che Chem Ha were enchanting. Timotea and the other members of the San Antonio Women’s Group Center were gracious, committed, and knowledgeable. Eder and his father, El Fego, at Xunantunich made us feel welcome and taught us much. Don Eladio took us for an educational and entertaining romp through his organic farm, Victoria taught us much as she prepared our lunch, and her children Christian and Tristan made us part of the family for the day. Axel, Vickie, and Isien of Manta Island Resort were so good to us that, even in the age of Covid, hugs were essential.

And then there were the two anonymous guests (fishermen, we surmised) who ate dinner at the table next to ours two nights in a row at the Copal Tree Lodge. Their almost childlike joy (even choosing the entrée for dinner was an adventure to be savored) underlined for us how fortunate we were to be there at that moment. Rachael and Patricia provided us with many such moments, and for that we are very grateful.” —Richard Ashmore

Read more reviews of Belize trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO BELIZE

Canada: townspeople at a fair, musicians and storytellers, a screech-in at a local pub…

Newfoundlanders welcome travelers into their homes (and lighthouses). Photo: Maxxim Vacations

“Jill organized an eight-day trip for four couples, best friends for the last 30 years. It was a trip full of great adventure, hiking, fishing, good food, and fantastic people. In Cape Breton our local guide caught our vibe from the minute she met us and took us to her own town’s annual fair. She introduced us to some of the families there, and we instantly felt the warmth and kindness—we didn’t want to leave!

In Newfoundland, we stayed in Woody Point in Gros Morne National Park. The townspeople were, again, warm and welcoming (a common characteristic in this part of Canada). The local pub, The Merchant Warehouse, had great food, and the owner’s daughter plays her guitar and sings up a storm (don’t miss it). We had our screech-in there as well with the incomparable Aunt Sophie!!! The hikes were unrivalled; accurately marked and well-kept, the unique landscapes and terrain were breathtaking. We will be back to conquer Gros Morne itself!

Finally, we ended our vacation in Corner Brook at the beautiful Hew & Draw Hotel. The highlight here was our time with Darren, who took us out in his dory to his cabin on the water for a dinner of mussels and cod, with an evening tour of the surrounding region by boat. His mom had even baked us an apple pie! The stories he told us of his family and the region were again just part of the local hospitality. We have traveled to many places in the world, and the Canadian Maritimes is indeed a treasure.” —Barbara Palter

Read more reviews of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

Mexico City: an expert-led taco tour, meals with private chefs, off-the-beaten-path shopping…

An expert-led taco tour is a must-do in Mexico City. Photo: Shutterstock

“We wanted to explore neighborhoods and culture and avoid crowded museums and other tourist sites. Zach and his team delivered right on point. We were able to visit the historic downtown, stroll through neighborhoods like Roma, Condessa and Polanca in the heart of Mexico City, and visit the district of Coyoacan with the charming Colonia del Carmen neighborhood and village center with our guide Amalia.

If you are a foodie, you will love your options: We had a wonderful taco tour with Frederico and two wonderful meals with private chefs Alfredo and Graciela. Everything was absolutely delicious. Another highlight was a shopping afternoon with Cristina, who took us to wonderful off-the-beaten-path shops where we were able to purchase items we will cherish forever and a beautiful selection of clothing for my wife. We had a wonderful time and will definitely use Zach next time we go to Mexico.” —Susan and Blake Hancock

Read more reviews of Mexico City trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO MEXICO CITY

Ireland: teen boys meeting local teens for outdoor fun and games

Killarney National Park with a scenic tour from Killarney Jaunting Cars.

A jaunting cart ride in Killarney National Park, Ireland. Photo: Shutterstock

“My friend and I took our four teenage sons on a March spring break trip to Ireland arranged by Jonathan. It was a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and downtime that was perfect for all of us. I can’t speak highly enough about our time with our private driver-guide, Frank. Frank got to know the boys and their interests and went out of his way to add to the itinerary with activities such as Gaelic Games and time with a local club soccer team. Our boys loved getting to spend time with other teens from Ireland.

Some favorite activities were our boat ride in Killarney National Park followed by a seven-mile jaunting cart ride. The Galway food walking tour was a hit for all. While the rest of our group did Gaelic Games, I did a walking tour of Dublin and had a wonderful time learning about Dublin past and present.

This is my second trip that I have done going through your WOW List. Your trip planners make vacations memorable and special. I will never plan a trip without going through Wendy Perrin—and I freely share this advice with others.” —Jennifer Brown

Read more reviews of Ireland trips. To get your own WOW trip, start with our trip questionnaire, reached via the black button below.

START A TRIP TO IRELAND

Where to Go in November: The Best Places to Travel

2 Replies

November is a smart time to travel—between the summer and holiday high seasons—and fall light and often-clear skies make it a great month for photography too. Below are some of your smartest November trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

Start a trip to Northern Italy

Northern Italy

view of Canelli, a town in the Piedmont region of Italy with greernery, old buildings and blue skies

November is truffle season in Piedmont.

In November head to Piedmont for truffle season; the White Truffle Fair in Alba runs the entire month. Try truffle hunting, taste the local Barolo wines, watch artisanal cheese makers, cycle among the vineyards (electric bikes are available!), hike the rolling hills beneath the crisp blue skies…or do it all with your family in a villa for Thanksgiving. This is also harvest time for olives and wine. Learn to cook al fresco in an olive grove, on a goat-cheese farm, or in a vineyard.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Northern Italy. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Provence, France

Provence and its pretty villages are incredibly popular, so try to visit in shoulder season. Photo: Pixabay

The light in Provence in winter is why so many famous artists moved there, and the sunshine makes al fresco lunches possible well into November. Provencal markets bustle in the fall, and truffle hunting starts in November. Hike amid the glorious autumn landscapes and hilltop villages of the Luberon, and cycle through the wine country around Gigondas and Vacqueyras, where there are few cars and great eateries.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Provence. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Provence

Andalusia, Spain

Skyline in the Old Quarter of Seville, Spain

In November, Seville is a city of locals, not tourists. Photo: Shutterstock

One highlight of this magical part of Spain is the culture—an aspect that can be very hard to experience during the summer high season, when the numbers of tourists and residents are imbalanced. In November, by contrast, most of the visitors are gone, making it much easier to interact with locals (and to enjoy some breathing room in the region’s UNESCO World Heritage sites). The weather is still quite pleasant, with temperatures near 70 degrees during the day.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Southern Spain. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Southern Spain

Portugal

Beautiful nature view on Azores with small villages, tows, green nature fields. Amazing Azores. View of typical Azores village in Sao Miguel island, Azores, Portugal.

The Azores combine European-inflected villages with outstanding hiking and biking opportunities. Photo: Shutterstock

Temperatures remain in the 60s well into November, when it’s still warm enough for dinner outdoors; heat lamps aren’t needed till late in the month. Private river boats—which are much better for sightseeing than your typical river cruises—sail the Douro through the end of the month too. And the weather is even more mild on the subtropical islands of Madeira—known for outstanding hiking opportunities—and the Azores, where you can also hike, bike, and off-road around the postcard-perfect lagoons.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Portugal. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Portugal

Greece: Crete, Corfu, or Rhodes

Corfu is one of a few Greek islands that stays open and lively through the winter months.

Many Greek islands shut down in late October or early November, but Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes operate year-round, offering traditional cultural and culinary experiences and festivities in the winter months. November is a great time for sheep farms, olive orchards, and the wine harvest.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Greece. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Greece

Sicily

Hike Sicily’s Mt. Etna in the fall. Photo: Shutterstock

If your goal is to combine culture and outdoor beauty, fall is this island’s best season. Autumn brings the olive, almond, and wine harvests, and sunny, mild weather. Outdoor activities include exploring Sicily’s Greek and Roman ruins, hiking Mt. Etna, and cycling though nature reserves and wine country.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Sicily. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Sicily

Morocco

The ksar (fortified village) of Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco.

The weather is perfect at this time of year: sunny days and crisp, clear evenings that make for great star-gazing in the desert. It’s also ideal for hiking in the Atlas Mountains, as it’s starting to cool down and the peaks are often photogenically snowcapped. Plus, it’s harvest time: You can see saffron being picked, and olives turned to oil, right in front of your eyes.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Morocco. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Morocco

Argentina and Chile, including Patagonia

Torres del Paine National Park view of mountains and water

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile. Photo: Luis Felipa, Southwind Adventures

Most of Argentina and Chile are great at this time of year (think Buenos Aires, the Atacama Desert, even Easter Island), but Patagonia is an especially smart move in November because the lodges have a quieter, more relaxed ambiance and there is less traffic on the roads than during the busiest weeks of December and January. November is also the best time to spot Patagonia’s elusive wildlife, such as nandu, guanaco, puma, huemul, and condor, as all of the animals are more active during their breeding time. The region has a reputation for changeable windy weather, but November feels like spring, with snows melting off the high peaks and flowers beginning to bloom. Rates are sometimes also a bit lower this early in the season.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Patagonia, and elsewhere in Chile and Argentina. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Patagonia

The Brazilian Amazon

Aerial view of Anavilhanas National Park Islands, Rio Negro, Brazilian Amazon

White beaches form on the Rio Negro, in the Brazilian Amazon, in November. Photo: Shutterstock

River levels are lowest in November, so all of the beaches are out in their full splendor. (People are often shocked by the beauty of the white-sand beaches that form here, making a trip to Brazil’s region of the Amazon unique from the experiences one can have in Ecuador or Peru’s swaths of the same river system.) An ideal trip extends over five days, so it’s easy to fit into a Thanksgiving break. And the area around the Negro River, which is acidic, is not good for mosquito reproduction, so there is little chance of malaria or zika.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Brazil. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to the Brazilian Amazon

Belize

Explore Belize on the water or in the jungle. Photo: Belize Sailing Vacations

Before Thanksgiving, hotel rates are at their lowest. The days are hot, but the humidity is dropping, and the evenings are cool and breezy. November 19 is Garifuna Settlement Day and is best spent in either Dangriga or Hopkins, where the Garifuna people celebrate—with drumming, dancing, and parades—the arrival of their Afro-indigenous ancestors more than 200 years ago.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Belize. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Belize

Mexico

Candles lighten up for Día de Muertos in Michoacan.

Día de Muertos in Michoacan. Photo: Journey Mexico

Day of the Dead (celebrated on November 1 and 2), is a significant cultural holiday deeply ingrained in tradition, and a time when Mexican families and communities unite to pay tribute to and commemorate their departed loved ones. Celebrations vary across the country, ranging from grand public festivities to more intimate private gatherings. Our WOW Listers can arrange culturally sensitive experiences in Mexico City, Chiapas, Oaxaca, and the Yucatan Peninsula.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mexico. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to the Galápagos

London for Thanksgiving break

Christmas decorations appear in London by mid-November. Photo: visitlondon.com

November is a great month for museum lovers, as many of the blockbuster exhibitions open in the fall; there’s also the London Jazz Festival, where world-class stars and hot emerging artists share the bill. And the Christmas spirit is already in the air starting in mid-November, with holiday lights on all the shopping streets, a plethora of Christmas markets, high tea at gorgeous hotels, and holiday cheer everywhere. If you can’t wait until then, Guy Fawkes Night is celebrated with bonfires and fireworks on November 5.
Read reviews of WOW trips to London. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to London

The Galápagos Islands

underwater photo of a sea lion in the Galapagos islands

Predator-free Galapagos sea lions may come this close to you when you’re snorkeling.

The Galápagos is a magnet for families with kids during summer and other school vacations; if you’re looking for a quieter time, think November (except Thanksgiving week). Blue whales, humpback whales, and whale sharks—the largest fish in the sea, growing up to 40 feet in length and weighing as much as 40,000 pounds—are most likely to be spotted in the Galápagos from June through November.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Galápagos. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Guatemala

A handmade kite at Santiago Sacatepéquez’s Festival de Barriletes Gigantes. Photo: Shutterstock

Every November 1 in Sumpago (about 30 minutes north of Antigua), the Festival de Barriletes Gigantes—Festival of Giant Kites—merges a Catholic celebration with a 3,000-year-old Mayan tradition of communing with spirits of the deceased (one that is less morbid than most Mexican Day of the Dead customs). Today, the handmade kites address social themes and the festival features lots of special dishes sold in restaurants and around the square. There is a sister festival in Santiago Sacatepéquez on the same day, which is a bit harder to get to but draws smaller crowds. November is the finish of the wet season, so plan to visit the festival early in your trip and take advantage of drier weather in the following weeks.
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Guatemala

Nepal

Patan’s Durbar Square, Nepal. Photo: Shutterstock

November is the perfect time in Nepal, whether you’re a trekker or just want to explore a fascinating culture. And there’s more to tempt the latter crowd than ever before, with roads leading to villages once accessible only on foot. In November, the air is crisp and clear, without the pre-monsoon dust, so the mountain views are best. And festivals abound: Near Everest, Manu Rimdu is an exorcism festival designed to purge evil from the area, ensure a bountiful harvest, and confer blessings with dancing, prayers, and comic relief. Then there is the Festival of Lights, or Tihar, honoring the gods, humans, and animals, which falls each year in either November or late October.
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Nepal

Thailand

From north (here, near Chiang Rai) to south, Thailand is at its best in November. Photo: Anantara

Much of Thailand is at its very best in November, when the mountains are lush and green from the recently receded monsoon, the mornings are diffused with a subtle mist suspended in the valleys, and the sun is gentler as the seasons ease into cooler weather. The rivers are deep and navigable, and the waterfalls are at optimum volume. All in all, it’s an ideal window to travel, before the crowds and costs rise in December.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Thailand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Thailand

India

Drummers at the Kalpathi Festival in Kerala, India. Photo: Sanjay Saxena

November is an ideal time to visit almost all of India—except the Himalayas—thanks to the temperate weather. The just-passed monsoon season has given way to relatively clear skies in Delhi and Mumbai, and there are festivals throughout the country, from the Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan to the grand Kalpathi Chariot Festival in Kerala.
Read reviews of WOW trips to India. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to India

Norway

You have a good chance of spotting the northern lights in November. Photo: Gaute Bruvik – visitnorway.com

If you’re prepared for some unsettled weather, the benefits of visiting Norway in November include seeing the aurora borealis; trying out glass-blowing, ceramics, or knitting with local artists; and discovering the Norwegian art of “kos,” roughly translated as the practice of gratitude and of consciously appreciating one’s surroundings. During this quieter period locals have more time to share with visitors, now that the busy summer months have passed. There’s also plenty of hiking, kayaking, and even arctic surfing when the weather allows, and whales to be spotted along the country’s coast at this time of year. Here’s why Brook found Norway delightful in November.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Norway here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Norway

Australia and/or New Zealand

aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef from an airplane

November sees calm water around the Great Barrier Reef. Photo: Tourism Whitsundays

November is one of the best months for a wide-ranging trip to several different parts of these countries: The water around the Great Barrier Reef is calm, making for good visibility; and the weather is spring-time pleasant in Auckland, Sydney, Kangaroo Island, and the outback; and the peaks on New Zealand’s South Island are still picturesquely snow-capped.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Australia and New Zealand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Australia and/or New Zealand

Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why November is a good time to go.

North America

Arizona: Grand Canyon

Florida: Disney World, Orlando

Hawaii: Maui and Oahu (for whale-watching)

Caribbean & South America

Caribbean yacht charter (British Virgin Islands)

Argentina: Mendoza

Colombia: Cartagena and Bogota

Cuba

Europe

England: The Cotswolds

Greece: Athens

Iceland (for Northern Lights)

Italy: Rome and Sicily

Asia

Africa

Madagascar: whale sharks

Cruises

Africa Cruises

Antarctica Cruises

Where to Go in January: The Best Places to Travel

Leave a reply

Ring in the New Year at home, then get on a plane: Prices are at their peak through New Year’s Day, but they drop later that first week in January. Below are some of your smartest January trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

Start a trip to Costa Rica

Costa Rica

Dry weather and good availability await those who visit Costa Rica in January. Photo: Shutterstock

January is one of the nicest times of the year weatherwise for a winter escape, right in the middle of the Costa Rican dry season. And it is often the only time in the high season that you can plan a last-minute trip and still have your first choice of the top properties.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Costa Rica here, here, and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Belize

Tiny islands, or cayes, dot the waters off Belize’s Caribbean coast.

Nonstop flights to Belize take off from several U.S. cities that are only about three hours away. Once you’re there you can explore world-class coral reefs, visit uncrowded Mayan ruins, learn to scuba dive (as Wendy’s son did), fish for 100-pound tarpon (which kept her husband busy), and laze beside sparkling Caribbean waters—or you can charter your own private yacht, enjoying fabulous snorkeling, sunbathing, kayaking, and plenty of distance from everyone except your captain and first mate.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Belize. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Belize

Mexico’s Colonial Cities

Guanajuato’s historic center is full of colonial-era mansions and plazas. Photo: Journey Mexico

Mexico is much more than a one-dimensional beach destination. Sure, fabulous oceanfront resorts and sumptuous private villas abound on its long coastlines. But the country is also home to charming colonial towns such as Guanajuato, Morelia, and Oaxaca, captivating pre-Columbian ruins (especially in Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas), and a vibrant scene in Mexico City—and in January, these destinations have ideal temperatures and little rain.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mexico. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Nicaragua

Nicaragua’s Coastline and Mountains

Nicaragua’s interior and coastline are both in their prime in January. Photo: TPS Dave/Pixabay

In January, the country is lush and green, there is no rain, and the breezes keep temperatures in the high 80s during the day on the coast—perfect for chilling out by the ocean—and in the 70s in the mountains—ideal for hikes in the cloud forest. Despite its reputation from decades past, Nicaragua is one of the safest countries in the Americas, with a very low crime rate. It’s not a democracy, but the only danger is for those in active political opposition to the government.
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Certain Western U.S. National Parks

snowy scene of hot spring steaming in winter in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park in winter: beautiful landscapes, no crowds. Photo: tpsdave/Pixabay

From snowshoeing in Yellowstone to hiking in Joshua Tree, adventures abound in our national parks—even in the middle of winter. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see the Grand Canyon with a magical dusting of snow, or have a view of Yosemite Falls all to yourself.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to a U.S. national park

Italy’s Cultural Capitals

Florence is just as gorgeous—and far less busy—in January. Photo: Shutterstock

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with Rome, Florence, and Milan in January. Temperatures will typically be in the high 40s and 50s during the day, but plan on bundling up to fit in with the locals. Perhaps a new pair of leather gloves to complete your Italian look? They’ll be on sale. Italy generally has only two times during the year when they extend sconti (discounts) in retail shops: January and July. You can find deals at both boutique shops and international-brand stores after the holiday craziness, and you won’t have to fight the crowds so common at other times of the year. Enjoy Rome’s decadently rich hot chocolate as an afternoon treat, or post up next to a funghi (the mushroom-shaped outdoor heaters) and dine al fresco in one of Florence’s beautifully lit piazzas.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Italy. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Italy

Argentina and Patagonia

vineyards with snow-capped mountains in background Mendoza Argentina

Summertime in Mendoza means green grapevines with a backdrop of snowcapped Andes. Photo: Shutterstock

January is prime season for hiking in Patagonia, which gets just a bit quieter after the holiday rush. Meanwhile, at the foothills of the Andes, the grapevines in Mendoza sit heavy with ripening fruit. Temperatures hit the 90s in Buenos Aires, so the locals hit the beach—leaving the city easy to navigate, with so little traffic.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Argentina. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Argentina

Australia

January is the summer sailing season on Sydney Harbour. Photo: Tourism Australia

Sydney’s summer months (December to February) bring beach weather, as well as festivals and harborside celebrations: After the world-renowned New Year’s Eve celebrations comes the Sydney Festival, a three-week celebration of the arts culminating with Australia Day on January 26. It’s also the right time to take a surfing lesson at Bondi Beach, go sailing in Sydney Harbour, hike waterside trails, picnic on city parklands, catch an outdoor movie screening or concert, or attend one of the city’s many professional surfing, tennis, cricket, and rugby competitions. (Remember that prices are also at their peak in summer, so book accommodations and tickets early, before they sell out.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Australia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Brazil

Sugarloaf Mountain and Botafogo Neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro by Sunset with Full Moon in the Sky

Rio de Janeiro is lively day and night in January. Photo: Shutterstock

January is the best time to visit Rio—assuming you don’t mind temperatures that regularly hit 105 degrees: It’s the height of summer, Cariocas (Rio residents) are at their most relaxed, and the nightlife is at its peak.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Brazil. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Brazil

Dubai and Abu Dhabi

In January, Dubai is still warm enough for beaches, and also hosts a shopping festival. Photo: Pixabay

January is the cooler season—which in this part of the world means temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s. Designers descend upon Dubai for the Shopping Festival, when shops and boutiques offer discounts all month long.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

New Zealand

The most satisfying approach to Milford Sound is on foot, along the famous Milford Track. Photo: Shutterstock

January sees warm weather and long days in New Zealand, from top to bottom: You can sunbathe in a hidden cove in the Bay of Islands, hike the iconic Milford Track, or helicopter-hop among snowy glaciers.
Read reviews of WOW trips to New Zealand here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to New Zealand

Thailand

Islands like Koh Phangan are at their best starting in mid-January. Photo: Journeys Within

Southern Thailand is ideal from mid-January through March, when the oceans are still relatively calm, and sunny skies and cooler temperatures prevail before the heat returns in April. Bangkok, meanwhile, is a year-round destination: There’s always great food and off-the-beaten-path adventures to uncover, and short bursts of rain can easily be dodged while in the city.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Thailand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Thailand

Sri Lanka

January is the calm between two busy travel periods in Sri Lanka. Photo: Shutterstock

The weather in mid to late January is delightful—spring-like temperatures and blue skies—and it’s a quieter period sandwiched between two busy times: Christmas/New Year’s and Chinese New Year.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Sri Lanka. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Sri Lanka

Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why January is a good time to go.

North America

Florida: Disney World, Orlando

Hawaii: Oahu (whale watching)

Caribbean and Central America

British Virgin Islands yacht charter

Cuba

Panama

South America

Brazil: Salvador and Trancoso

Ecuador: Galápagos

Europe

France: Paris apartment rentals

Iceland: northern lights

Italy: Rome

Norway: northern lights and winter activities

Asia

Cambodia

China: Yunnan Province

India: Mumbai and Rajasthan

Nepal’s lower elevations

The Philippines

Cruises

Africa Cruises

Antarctica Cruises

Where to Go in October: The Best Places to Travel

2 Replies

Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and shoulder-season deals make October a great time to travel to a large swath of the globe. Since you can’t go everywhere, we’ve pinpointed a few of the most optimal spots. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

Start a trip to Olympic National Park

Italy: From the Cinque Terre to Puglia

Castello di Grinzane and village in Piedmont - one of the most famous wine regions of Italy

From Piedmont (shown here) in the north to Sicily in the south, Italy is lovely in October. Photo: Shutterstock

From the northern coastline to the boot of the heel—and just about everywhere in between—Italy is gorgeous in October. The weather is pleasant, hotels aren’t charging their peak-season rates, and you’ll enjoy a more authentic experience when the people dining beside you at the trattorias are locals, not tourists. On the Amalfi Coast, October is when the throngs of cruise-ship passengers have thinned, prices have dropped (a little), there’s plenty of sun, and the sea is still warm enough for swimming. In Tuscany, festivals for the olive and grape harvests abound, and the fall foliage is stunning. In Rome, you don’t need to wait in line for an outside table in the city’s iconic piazze.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Italy. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Italy

Burgundy, France

The castle of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois viewed from a barge.

A canal winds past the castle of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois. Photo: Timothy Baker

The chaos of harvest is over and the grapes are in—which means there’s still lots of activity in the wineries, since the wines are fermenting and the vinification is in full throe, but the winemakers themselves have a little more time to spend with visitors. It’s also the prettiest time: The leaves on the vines turn yellow and gold, and you realize why they call it the Côte d’Or (the golden slopes). And beyond the wines, it’s the most interesting time for seasonal produce: Mushrooms and squashes complement wild game on the menus of the local restaurants.
Read reviews of WOW trips to France. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to France

The Big Island, Hawaii

The Big Island is at its best, weatherwise, in October.

October is the choicest month for the Big Island, as the weather is driest—with daytime temperatures hovering around 85 degrees—and families aren’t traveling, so prices are lower. (The only thing it’s not an ideal time for is surfing.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Hawaii. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Hawaii

Olympic National Park, Washington

A beautiful sunset on the ocean among the rocks, Cape flattery trail , Olympic Peninsula, Washington state

Sunsets are particularly spectacular on the Olympic Peninsula in October. Photo: Shutterstock

In October, the weather is usually pleasant across all three of the park’s environments: the Olympic Mountains, the temperate Hoh Rain Forest, and the rugged Pacific coastline. There may be snow at the high elevations and some rain lower down, but the waterfalls will be flowing, and the area is very lush. Sunsets also tend to be spectacular at this time of year.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Washington. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Madrid, Spain

Cultural events pick up in fall in Madrid. Photo: Shutterstock

In September and October, the blistering summer heat abates and cultural events pick up, with festivals, theater shows, and concerts. It’s also much easier to get a room at one of the luxury hotels that has opened in the city in recent years, from the Four Seasons to the Rosewood to the Edition.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Madrid. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Madrid

Austria’s Danube Valley

October is harvest time in Austria’s vineyards. Photo: Austrian Tourist Board

October is at the end of peak season, there’s gorgeous fall scenery, and it’s harvest time in the vineyards, which means that the Heuriger (wine taverns) are especially fun and lively and you’ll probably get to try new wines. More important, especially for wine buffs, many of the smaller (and better) Heurigers aren’t open year-round, but they’re all open in October.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Austria. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Austria’s Danube Valley

Sicily and Malta

The seas around Sicily are still warm enough for swimming in October. Photo: Shutterstock

October is harvest season in Sicily, which means fresh olives, almonds, and chestnuts—not to mention wild mushrooms, prickly pears, and carob—complement the island’s always-bountiful variety of culinary offerings. In nearby Malta, it is still warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, or a romantic overnight sail to the island of Gozo with nobody else around. Throughout the region, the air and sea temperatures are still inviting, flights and accommodations are less expensive than during the summer, and the fewer tourists mean you get a more intimate experience with the local people. Here’s what Wendy loved about Malta in October.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Sicily and Malta. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Sicily and/or Malta

Croatia

On Hvar, it’s still swimsuit season but the party crowds have gone. Photo: Exeter International

Visit Croatia in the first half of October and you’ll find good weather, fewer tourists, and lower hotel prices than during peak season.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Croatia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Croatia

Greece

Boats off the island of Naxos. Photo: Billie Cohen

Smart travelers will let the summer crowds die down, then go to Greece in the fall. As with Croatia, at that time of year you’ll find pleasant temperatures, quieter streets, and lower prices.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Greece. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Greece

Turkey

Enjoy a crowd-free stroll through Istanbul. Photo: Tim Baker

The fall shoulder season is a sweet spot for Turkey: Istanbul and Cappadocia are sunny and mild, while on the Aegean Coast, it’s warm but not sweltering, and the sea is calm.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Turkey. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Turkey

Utah’s National Parks

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Utah

Utah’s Highway 12 runs alongside the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

October is one of the best months to explore Utah’s stunning national parks: The temperatures are generally moderate and the crowds thin. An insider can show you the parks on foot, by vehicle, and even from a helicopter.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Utah’s National Parks

Japan

A traditional onsen ryokan. Photo: Shutterstock

Autumn in Kyoto brings cooler air and bright red maples (which last into November), magnificent to behold alongside Zen gardens and royal villas.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Japan. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Japan

Bali

Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, a Hindu temple on Bali’s Bratan Lake. Photo: Shutterstock

While October falls during the rainy season, showers are usually limited to a few hours in the afternoon or overnight. It’s also less busy than the high season, making hotel rates more attractive.
To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Bali

Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand is lush and green in October. Photo: Anantara

Northern Thailand is at its best at the end of the green season: From mid-October to mid-December, the rains have diminished but the waterfalls and rivers are full, and the crowds and higher prices of the late-December to mid-January peak season have yet to arrive. The mountains are lush and green, and morning mists hanging in the valleys send shivers up your spine. (Bangkok is a year-round destination, and short bursts of rain can easily be dodged in the city.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Thailand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Thailand

Northern Chile and Argentina

the red sand of Chile's Atacama desert with tall mountains in the distance

The Atacama Desert pairs well with Argentina, or even Easter Island, in October. Photo: Awasi

While both the Atacama Desert in Chile and the region around Salta, Argentina, are year-round destinations, October and November see fewer visitors than other times of year—leaving your vistas of these wide-open landscapes largely free of other travelers. (These are also excellent months to hop a flight to Easter Island, when the place is nearly empty and the weather ideal.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Chile and Argentina. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Northern Chile and Argentina

China

October sees the best weather in Beijing (shown here) and across a wide swath of China.

China is huge, of course, and has a wide array of weather patterns, depending on location and elevation. But for a classic China itinerary, October is hard to beat: Skies are blue in Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an, and temperatures are so agreeable you won’t need heat or air-conditioning.
Read reviews of WOW trips to China. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to China

Oman

A dhow cruise on the Arabian Peninsula in Oman. Photo: Shutterstock

From mid-September through October, Oman’s weather is perfect: It’s not too hot in the desert and not too chilly in the mountains.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Oman. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Oman

Mongolia

An eagle hunter in Mongolia. Photo: Chris Rainier/Nomadic Expeditions

October is when you can attend the one-of-a-kind Golden Eagle Festival—a colorful celebration of a centuries-old Kazakh hunting tradition in the Altai Mountains. When the festival was founded in 1999, only 40 families still hunted with eagles; today more than 400 do so, and many locals rely on the income they earn during the event. Our Trusted Travel Expert can even arrange for you to have dinner with the competitors.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mongolia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Mongolia

Vietnam

Wonderful view of the East Gate (Hien Nhon Gate) to the Citadel and a moat surrounding the Imperial City with the Purple Forbidden City in Hue, Vietnam. Hue is a popular tourist destination of Asia.

October sees clear skies for exploring Hue’s historic landmarks. Photo: Shutterstock

Since the monsoons hit northern, central, and southern Vietnam at different times, weather across Vietnam varies widely. If your goal is to travel throughout the country, the driest months to visit are October and March. Fall is when you’ll find the best weather conditions in Ho Chi Minh City and the south.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Vietnam. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Vietnam

The Seychelles

Maia Luxury Resort, Anse Louis Beach, Seychelles

October brings a mix of good weather and value. Photo: Maia Luxury Resort/Lindsey Wallace

October represents a nice balance of great weather (not too hot and little to no rain) and great value (since many of the resorts still have low-season rates). It’s also the best month for snorkeling and diving with whale sharks.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Seychelles. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to the Seychelles

Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why October is a good time to go.

North America

California Coast

Canada: Québec

Hawaii: Maui

Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons National Park (first half of the month)

Mexico: Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Maya (all for the second half of the month)

Yellowstone National Park (first half of the month)

Central and South America

Costa Rica: fishing, wildlife and turtle hatching

Patagonia (second half of the month)

Peru

Europe

Canal Barge Cruises

Czech Republic

England: Cotswolds and London

France: Paris

Greece: Athens

Hungary

Ireland: Killarney and County Kerry

Portugal, including The Algarve

Romania (first half of the month)

Scotland

Spain: Andalusia

Asia

India: Agra, Delhi, Mumbai, and Trekking in the Himalayas

Bhutan

China: Yunnan Province

Laos

Nepal

Africa and Middle East

Botswana

Madagascar

Morocco: Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains

South Africa: Cape Town and the Winelands

Australia and Pacific

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef

French Polynesia (first half of the month)

New Zealand: Queenstown hiking and cycling

Where to Go in September: The Best Places to Travel

1 Reply

September is a smart month for many places around the world, thanks to fewer tourists and shoulder-season deals. Below are some of your wisest September trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

Start a trip to the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon

Enjoy the vastness of the Grand Canyon—without the elbow-to-elbow crowds—in September. Photo: Mike Buchheit

After Labor Day, the Grand Canyon gets much quieter, prices fall from the highs of summer, and the weather is still pleasant.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Québec

Grandes Piles town during fall in Quebec, Canada.

Québec’s countryside lights up in fall. Photo: Shutterstock

September and October have lovely fall foliage, the weather is ideal for golfing, and it’s harvest season in the vineyards. (Do keep in mind that during these months, Québec City gets crowded on certain days of the week with cruise-ship day-trippers.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Québec. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Québec

Tuscany

September is harvest season in Tuscany’s vineyards.

Come September, the vineyard-covered hills across much of Tuscany come alive for the vendemmia, or grape harvest. The rumble of small tractors rolling along the long rows of vines, the chattering of families and farm hands as they snip off individual clusters by hand, the tinkling of glasses and forks against plates as long tables are set up outdoors for everyone to take a break for lunch al fresco…these are the sights and sounds of autumn in Chianti, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and the rest of Tuscany’s wine country.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Tuscany. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Tuscany

Mexico’s Colonial Heartland

Mexican national symbol among colonial buildings on Independence Day.

An Independence Day light display in Mexico City. Photo: Shutterstock

Mexico City and the country’s colonial heartland (San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Puebla, Queretaro, Michoacan) come alive for independence celebrations, which fall on September 15 and 16. Throughout the month of September, cities and plazas in the region transform with patriotic fervor, commemorating the start of the Mexican War for Independence in 1810. Visitors will find a jubilant atmosphere, and the festivals and parades typically bring with them some of Mexico’s most traditional street snacks.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mexico. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a Mediterranean trip

Norway

You don’t have to visit Norway during its darkest winter days to see the northern lights.

September is the sweet spot for Norway, when it’s still warm enough to spend your days exploring the fjords but the night sky gets dark enough that you have a good chance of catching the Northern Lights.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Norway. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Norway

Mediterranean Coastlines and Islands

colorful boats in Marsaxlokk Harbour, Malta

Think Mediterranean spots—like this on on Malta—for September. Photo: Exclusively Malta

In September, the Mediterranean region is still sunny (but not too hot) and it’s warm enough to go swimming—and yet the crowds have thinned because kids are back in school. From the Algarve in Portugal to the French Riviera to the Cinque Terre in Italy to Turkey’s Aegean coast, the weather is great for strolling through villages and indulging in the local culinary treats. Don’t forget about islands like Corsica, Sicily, or Malta, either: On the latter, there are village feasts happening in September, with parades, concerts, and even fireworks.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Portugal’s Algarve, France’s Riviera, Sicily, Malta and Turkey. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Ireland

Mullaghmore Head, County Sligo, Ireland. Photo: Alison Crummy/Tourism Ireland

September and October, when the summer crowds have gone but relatively warm weather remains, is one of the best times to visit. It certainly might rain—this is Ireland, after all—but that just means you’ll have rainbows! In September, which is considered high season, leaves start turning, ushering in fall.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Ireland. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Ireland

Portugal: Porto and the Douro River Valley

Grape harvest in the Douro Valley, Portugal

It’s harvest time in the Douro Valley, Portugal. Photo: Porto Tourism

Late September and early October are typically the time for the grape harvest in the Douro. You can participate by picking grapes (more fun than it sounds) or—better yet—stomping the fruit à la I Love Lucy with your own two feet. There are also some amazing hikes just north of Porto, which are at their best in fall when the weather and landscape are starting to change; options range from easy strolls to expert-level routes.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Portugal. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Portugal

Germany

September is festival season in Germany. Photo: Claudia Schwenger

September hits the sweet spot of pleasant weather and minimal crowds, and there are many charming, open-air harvest festivals taking place. Plus, there’s Oktoberfest, most of which actually falls during September.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Germany. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Germany

Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park in fall, Wyoming.

The aspens near Grand Teton National Park are ablaze in fall. Photo: NPS

From mid-September to mid-October, the aspens are golden, the area isn’t crowded, and hotels often discount their rates; plus, the grizzly and black bears are more visible as they stock up prior to hibernation, and the elk are bugling. While the weather can be cooler, it’s a good excuse to take advantage of the fireplace in your room.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Jackson Hole and Grand Teton

Cruises: Alaska, Eastern Canada, Mediterranean

Cruise fares often drop as summer gives way to fall. Photo: Windstar Cruises

As the summer winds down, you can often find the lowest pricing on cruises in iconic destinations like Alaska and the Mediterranean. For those seeking a getaway that’s closer to home, many ships sail routes through New England and Eastern Canada, stopping in places like Boston, Nova Scotia, and Québec City.
Read reviews of WOW cruises. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a cruise

The Islands of French Polynesia: Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Beyond

The quintessential white-sand beaches and crystalline waters of French Polynesia. Photo: Brando Resort

Humpback whales approach the islands (mostly Rurutu and Moorea) to give birth and feed from August to October. The waters hold a lot of food that fatten up the babies before they head to the Antarctic. If the whales are calm and the weather is good, you can even snorkel with them and listen to the sounds they use to communicate with each other; it’s really quite an amazing experience.
Read reviews of WOW trips to French Polynesia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to French Polynesia

Australia’s Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is a top destination for animal lovers. Photo: South Australian Tourism Commission

Kangaroo Island is Australia’s own Galapagos, a time capsule of the region’s native plants and animals, largely undisturbed by civilization for thousands of years. Kangaroos, wallabies, echidna, koalas, dolphins, sea lions, fur seals, and scores of birds can be seen in their natural habitats all year round; however, antipodal spring is a particularly special time to visit, with clear and warm days returning, wildflowers blooming, and joey kangaroos emerging from their mothers’ pouches. (It’s also before the Australian school holidays hit and families start arriving in October.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to Australia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a South African safari

Trancoso, Brazil

Trancoso has a chill vibe in September. Photo: Villas de Trancoso

If you are after peace and quiet, Trancoso’s off-season (i.e., June through September) is pure bliss: Temperatures are still in the high 70s to 80s, and you will often have mile upon mile of palm-tree-backed beaches all to yourself.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Brazil. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Brazil

South African Safaris

An elephant family at Singita Kruger, Kruger National Park.

September is glorious in South Africa. The winter chill has left, and spring is on its way. The grasses that grew high after the rainy season have been chomped down, leaving the animals in full view. Cape Town is warming up, and the rains have more or less gone for good. Whales can be seen off the coast, the vineyards are green, and safaris are spectacular throughout the parks and reserves.
Read reviews of WOW trips to South Africa. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

North India

Agra Fort - Medieval Indian fort made of red sandstone and marble with view of dome at sunrise. View of Taj Mahal at a distance as seen from Agra Fort.

Clear skies—which can be a rarity in India—are likeliest in September. Photo: Shutterstock

September is ideal in Northern India: In Delhi, the monsoon rains have given way to clear skies and pleasant temperatures. At the Taj Mahal, you’ll find the fewest people and the best photographic conditions. It’s also a good time for trekking, with fall color in the Himalaya.
Read reviews of WOW trips to India. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to India

Uzbekistan

September’s mild weather makes it ideal for exploring the ancient city of Samarkand. Photo: Shutterstock

After the summer heat, Uzbekistan’s weather is once again comfortable for touring the ancient cities of Bukhara, Samarkand, and Khiva, and for hiking in the mountains or camel riding in the Kizil Kum Desert. Click here to read about the trip Wendy and her family took to Uzbekistan.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Uzbekistan. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Uzbekistan

Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why September is an ideal time to go.

North America and Caribbean

Caribbean yacht charter (Windward Islands: Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

The California Coast

Maui

Newfoundland and Labrador

Yellowstone

Central and South America

Argentina: Skiing in Mendoza

Bolivia

Brazilian Amazon

Chile: Atacama Desert

Europe

Czech Republic: second half of the month

European Canal Barges

Hungary: second half of the month

Iceland: northern lights

The Italian and Swiss Alps

Italy: The Dolomites, Florence, Lakes Region, Puglia, Rome, Umbria, and Venice

Spain: Andalusia and Madrid

Switzerland

Turkey: Cappadocia and Istanbul

Asia

Africa and Middle East

Morocco: second half of the month

Oman: second half of the month

Rwanda: Gorilla Trekking

Zambia

Zimbabwe

Australia and Pacific

Great Barrier Reef

New Zealand: Queenstown

Papua New Guinea: Trekking

Where to Go in August: The Best Places to Travel

Leave a reply

A lot of people ask us where to go in August: It’s one of the few times of year when they can take a week or two off from work, yet it’s also when so many places are hot, crowded, filled with tourists, devoid of locals, and priced at their most expensive. Below are some of your smartest August trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

Start a trip to Atlantic Canada

Alaska Small-Ship Expedition Cruises

Panoramic view of Glacier Bay national Park. John Hopkins Glacier with Mount Orville and Mount Wilbur in the background. Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park, with Mount Orville and Mount Wilbur in the background. Photo: Shutterstock

August is especially inviting for a small-ship expedition cruise to Alaska, as daylight remains long, wildlife is plentiful, and the glaciers are uniquely illuminated by the late summer sun. Stay up late at this time of year and you may even be treated to the gorgeous green glow of the northern lights.
Read reviews of WOW expedition cruises to Alaska. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Alaska

Canada’s Maritime Provinces, including Newfoundland

This is typical Newfoundland scenery. Photo: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism

Ever since Wendy went there one August several years ago, she’s been urging other East Coasters to flee to Newfoundland in late summer, as an antidote to the crowds, heat, and beach traffic that choke the U.S. Eastern Seaboard. You get a foreign island with dramatic sweeping landscapes, lighthouses and fishing villages galore, roads to yourself (well, you plus a few moose), a distinct local culture, and incredibly friendly people, all without having to schlep too far from home. (You can fly there via Toronto or Halifax from many U.S. hubs.) A must on any Newfoundland itinerary is the Fogo Island Inn, a fascinating five-star philanthropic experiment that Wendy says has the most soul of any hotel she’s ever seen. Read why Wendy loved it there.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Newfoundland and the Maritime Provinces. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

British Columbia, Western Canada

Heli-hiking at Kinuseo Falls in Monkman Provincial Park, British Columbia. Photo: Hello BC

August days are usually clear and sunny (ideal for seaplane and helicopter flights). It’s prime time for kayaking, hiking, fishing, and river rafting, not to mention bear- and whale-watching. August is when Wendy chose to take her family to Whistler (see We Had the Best Family Trip in Whistler and We Never Put on Skis and I Can’t Believe We Did This: Mountain Climbing in Whistler), as well as to the Discovery Islands (see 6 Otherworldly Escapes That Feel More Remote Than They Are).
Read reviews of WOW trips to British Columbia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Western Canada

Iceland

Hiking on Iceland’s Snæfellsness Peninsula. Photo: Ryan Damm

Iceland’s high season starts to taper off in the second half of the month, meaning that you’ll find fewer crowds, more hotel availability, and somewhat better prices—but the weather is still pleasant for exploring the country’s awesome landscapes.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Iceland. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Iceland

London

A rib ride on the Thames River is a fun way to see waterfront sights such as the London Eye.

England’s capital is a smart choice in August: It’s a short flight (relatively speaking), it’s not too hot or crowded, and London hotels that typically cater to business travelers have reduced rates (and many of the city’s museums are free). London in August is such a smart move that that’s when Wendy took her own family there—and you can read what one of her young sons had to say about it in Do’s and Don’ts For Your Trip To London.
Read reviews of WOW trips to England. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to England

Austria

Summer in Austria is all about beautiful weather, long days, and festivals. Photo: Austria Tourism Board

The days are relatively long, the weather is great, and there are music festivals—especially opera—all over the country. Salzburg’s six-week classical music festival is one of the biggest in Europe.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Austria. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Austria

Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef, seen from above. Photo: Tourism Whitsundays

August brings clear blue skies, good visibility for divers and snorkelers, and calm seas (the wind usually dies down at the end of July). It’s also a great time to view wildlife: dwarf minke whales visiting the northern reefs, manta rays off Lady Elliott Island in the region’s southern zone, and humpback whales—including Migaloo, the world’s only known all-white humpback—on their annual migration to Antarctica.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Australia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to the American West

Yellowstone National Park

Grand Prismatic Spring view at Yellowstone National Park. Photo: Shutterstock

In August you’ll find warm days and cool nights, wildflowers in bloom, and hiking trails mostly free of snow. Do keep in mind that this is the busiest time in Yellowstone, with prices to match, and skies may be hazy from wildfires. Things are noticeably quieter during the last week of the month, since families have headed home and retirees wait until after Labor Day to visit.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Washington State: The San Juan Islands

Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse, Haro Straight, San Juan Islands, Washington. Photo: Shutterstock

August brings the clearest skies to the San Juans, making it one of the most popular months to visit the region.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Washington. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to the San Juan Islands

Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons

kayaking in jackson lake grand teton national park

Grand Teton National Park is full of outdoor activities in the summer, including kayaking on Jackson Lake. Photo: Billie Cohen

July and August bring the best weather of the summer, with warm days and cool nights; wildflowers are blooming, hiking trails are usually free of snow, and rivers should be clear of spring runoff, making for perfect fly-fishing conditions. All other summer activities, such as biking, rock climbing, rafting, and horseback riding, are easily available. (Skies may be hazy from area wildfires in August.)
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to the American West

Kenya for the Great Migration

zebras drinking from a stream in the great migration of animals in Kenya

August and September are the best times to see the annual migration, in which more than a million animals pass through Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve. Photo: Shutterstock

The best time to see the Great Migration—one of the grandest wildlife spectacles on Earth, with more than two million wildebeest and zebra on the move and predators lurking nearby—is July through September, and the best place to be is in the Masai Mara National Reserve. There are more than 15 different river crossings in the Masai Mara (bottlenecks along the migration route where the animals must avoid hungry crocodiles and lions), with great names like Smelly Crossing, Rekero Crossing, Football Crossing, Helicopter Crossing, and Double Crossing. You need to be patient, and in the right location at the right time of day. To increase your odds, consider staying at two camps in different locations.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Kenya here, here, and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a safari in Kenya

Costa Rica

Think you shouldn’t travel during Costa Rica’s rainy season? Think again. Photo: Shutterstock

Mid-June through mid–August is the middle of the rainy season, but prices are relatively low, everything is lush and green, and weather patterns are predictable: You get beautiful sunny mornings for adventure activities, and the strong showers in the afternoon give you time to rest while listening to the tropical rain that cools things off for the evening.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Costa Rica. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Costa Rica

The Seychelles

beach and rocks at Anse Source d'Argent beach Seychelles

Chez Batista Villas, Seychelles. Photo: Torsten Dickmann – STB

August is one of the sunniest months in the Seychelles. Rain can occur at any time of the year, but storms are typically short and isolated. Bear in mind that seas can be a little rougher from May to September.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Seychelles. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to the Seychelles

Rwanda and Uganda for Gorilla Trekking

The rewards of gorilla trekking in Uganda. Photo: EXPLORE

The best time for tracking the gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda is June through September, when it’s cool and there is less precipitation (but remember, this is still the rainforest, and storms can hit any day).
Read reviews of WOW trips to Rwanda and Uganda here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a gorilla-trekking safari

New Zealand

August is prime time for skiing in New Zealand. Photo: Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters

Summer skiing, anyone? August is the top month for skiing in New Zealand: You’ll get the most reliable heli-skiing conditions in August—and combining that with a tropical island like Fiji can be fun.
Read reviews of WOW trips to New Zealand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to New Zealand

Cambodia and Angkor Wat

silhouette Sunrise Fisherman fishing on the boat at Tonle Sap lake Cambodia

Tonle Sap during sunrise. Photo: Shutterstock

Late May through early September is Cambodia’s green season. It rains two days out of three, but the mornings are almost always sunny and bright, with rain clouds gathering toward the late afternoon; get out of bed early to explore when Cambodians are most active ahead of the midday heat, and you’ll enjoy far fewer crowds and vibrantly green rice paddies. Plus, the money you save on shoulder-season hotel rates you can spend on massages, world-class golf, and fine food.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Cambodia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Cambodia

Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why August is a good time to go.

North America and Caribbean

Canada: Québec

Caribbean yacht charter: Bahamas and Windward Islands (Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines)

Washington: Seattle

Central and South America

Bolivia

Brazil: Rio de Janeiro, Trancoso, and the Amazon

Colombia: Bogota

Ecuador: Quito and the Andes

Peru

Europe

Croatia

European Canal Barges

Italy: The Dolomites

Norway

Scotland

Switzerland: hiking in the Alps

Asia and Pacific

Australia’s Outback

French Polynesia: Tahiti

India: Agra and Ladakh

Mongolia: camel trekking

Africa

Zimbabwe (second half of the month)

Where to Go in July: The Best Places to Travel

1 Reply

Even in the peak summer travel month of July, there are still plenty of places in the world where you can escape the heat, crowds, and beach-bound traffic jams. Below are some of your smartest July trip options. Click the black buttons below to connect with a top local expert to plan an extraordinary trip for you. Here’s how to get a WOW trip.

For other months of the year, see Where To Go When.

Start a trip to British Columbia

British Columbia, Western Canada

bear looking at camera on Nakina River in British Columbia canada

Summer is a good time for bear-viewing—but hopefully not this close. Photo: Entree Canada

The days are usually clear and sunny (ideal for seaplane and helicopter flights) and the seasonal wilderness lodges, which typically open in mid-May, have been operating long enough to work out any kinks. The summer months are also prime time for kayaking, hiking, fishing, and river rafting, not to mention bear- and whale-watching.
Read reviews of WOW trips to British Columbia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons

Wildflowers blooming in Grand Teton National Park.

You’ll find warm days and cool nights, wildflowers in bloom, and hiking trails mostly free of snow. In the Tetons, rivers should be clear of spring runoff, making for perfect fly-fishing conditions. And it’s prime time for a huge variety of activities—biking, rock climbing, rafting, kayaking, horseback riding. Summer can be busy, but there are creative ways to beat the crowds in national parks.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons

Canada’s Atlantic Provinces, including Newfoundland

July is a prime month for spotting humpback whales in Newfoundland. Photo: Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism

Ever since Wendy visited one summer several years ago, she’s been urging other East Coasters to flee to Newfoundland in summer, as an antidote to the crowds, heat, and beach traffic that choke the U.S. Eastern Seaboard. You get a foreign island with dramatic sweeping landscapes, lighthouses and fishing villages galore, roads to yourself (well, you plus a few moose), a distinct local culture, and incredibly friendly people, all without having to schlep too far from home. (You can fly there via Toronto or Halifax from many U.S. hubs.) A must on any Newfoundland itinerary is the Fogo Island Inn, a fascinating five-star philanthropic experiment that Wendy says has the most soul of any hotel she’s ever seen. Read why Wendy loved it there.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Newfoundland. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Newfoundland

Norway

The village of Reine in the Lofoten Islands, Norway. Photo: Shutterstock

July brings Norway’s best weather. The days are endless, with almost no night, the nature is at its peak, the waterfalls are still large, and you still have some snowcapped mountains in the fjord area.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Norway. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Norway

Bora Bora, Tahiti, and French Polynesia

Fakarava island in french polynesia with canoe on turquoise blue water

French Polynesia is pleasantly breezy in July. Photo: Julius Silver/Pixabay

The Heiva festival falls during July, with local contests on outer islands early in the month and a culmination of ceremonies in Papeete, Tahiti around the 20th. July also falls during the “Trade Wind” season, when the breezes keep temperatures in the low 80s and the humidity is down as well. It still rains, but in 30- to 40-minute bursts, and then the sun comes out again (a cycle that can repeat a few times through each afternoon and evening). The lagoons can be a bit choppy, but are still great for kite surfing, catamarans, or outrigger canoes with a sail and, of course, sailing.
Read reviews of WOW trips to French Polynesia. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Bora Bora, Tahiti, and French Polynesia

Iceland

Kirkjufell mountain, in northern Iceland, rises to a knife’s edge—and makes for great photos. Photo: Shutterstock

In July Iceland sees about 20 hours of daylight, so you can pack your trip full of the outdoor pursuits that the country is famous for. It’s also when the weather is mildest—which here means average temperatures in the mid-50s—and the roads, hiking trails, and lava caves aren’t blocked by snow.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Iceland. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Iceland

Belize

Rendezvous Caye is one of many relaxation spots on Belize’s barrier reef. Photo: Shutterstock

While July technically falls during the country’s rainy season, the showers are sporadic and typically not a daily occurrence. Hotel rates are lower at this time of year, and it’s also the beginning of lobster season—so you can fish by day and enjoy the freshest possible crustaceans for dinner that very evening. Wendy and her family have enjoyed two idyllic trips to Belize in July/early August, including one when her son got scuba-certified right on the dock of their boutique resort.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Belize. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Belize

Mexico’s Riviera Maya

View from the beach in a quiet day at the Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico.

July brings quiet days like this to the Mayan ruins in Tulum. Photo: Journey Mexico

July is technically the rainy season in the Riviera Maya—but it often brings a pause from the spikes in precipitation that come in June and from August through November. Between the sporadic showers, you can enjoy fewer crowds at the archaeological sites, lush tropical foliage that has been revived by the summer rains, and lower rates at the region’s hotels. Plus, July presents the opportunity to swim with the whale sharks that congregate off the cost of Cancun at this time of year.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Mexico. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Australia’s Wilder Side

Whales are found in abundance on the Great Barrier Reef in July. Photo: Shutterstock

July is the perfect time for combining adventures in the Outback and on the Great Barrier Reef: It’s whale-watching season on the reef, the beginning of the dry season in the Top End and the Kimberley—so the landscape is green and fresh from recent rains—and outside the months of searing heat inland, with beautiful, crisp mornings and clear blue skies.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Australia here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Switzerland

Trancoso, Brazil

Beautiful Trancoso beach near Porto Seguro in state of Bahia, Brazil

July brings peace and quiet to Trancoso’s beaches. Photo: Shutterstock

If you are after a taste of the international party scene that put Trancoso on the map, you need to go from January through March. But if you are after peace and quiet, July is pure bliss: Temperatures are still in the high 70s to 80s, and you will often have mile upon mile of palm-tree-backed beaches all to yourself.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Brazil. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Brazil

Switzerland

Couple at hiking in the area of Zermatt with the Matterhorn in the background.

Hiking in Zermatt with the Matterhorn in the distance. Photo: Switzerland Tourism/Ivo Scholz

July brings the best conditions for hiking in the Alps. In the Appenzell, you can chat with farmers in their fields; near Interlaken, ride the gondola to the summit of the Jungfrau. After a few days on the trails, rest your legs and soak up the Italian-influenced culture on the shores of Lake Maggiore.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Switzerland. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Alaska

Guests spot calving ice while exploring in Southeast Alaska. Photo: Lindblad Expeditions/Michael S. Nolan

Until mid-July the mountains are still covered in snow, the flowers are emerging, and the animals have just given birth, so you might see moose out with their calves, as well as just-born fur-seal pups. Plus, the locals are happy that winter is over and that visitors have returned. Temperatures are typically in the mid-60s during the days (which are the longest days of the year) and you’re likely to see active, calving glaciers. All in all, it’s a great time to see the 49th state via a land-based stay, a cruise ship, or a smaller expedition-style vessel.
Read reviews of WOW land trips to Alaska here, and WOW cruises of Alaska here and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Alaska

Glacier National Park

The Going-to-the-Sun Road only opens for a few months every year. Photo: NPS/Tim Rains

High up on the border between Montana and Canada, Glacier has a very short season: The entire Going-to-the-Sun Road (the park’s star attraction, cut into an immense, craggy cliff with amazing vistas) is only open for a few months, typically from late June to October. In July, there will still be snow, but the weather is pleasant. These days, sadly, you’ll find only a few dozen glaciers left from the 150 that were here back in 1850. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails to choose from, some of which skirt waterfalls and glacial lakes.
Read reviews of WOW trips to U.S. national parks. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Glacier National Park

East Africa Safaris

great migration, wildebeest, mara river, masai mara Kenya

Wildebeest crossing the Mara River during the Great Migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara. Photo: Hippo Creek Safaris

The best time to see the Great Migration—one of the grandest wildlife spectacles on Earth, with more than two million wildebeest and zebra on the move and predators lurking nearby—is the dry season, since the animals come out looking for water sources. The best place to be is in the Masai Mara National Reserve: There are more than 15 different river crossings—bottlenecks along the migration route where the animals must avoid hungry crocodiles and lions.
Read reviews of WOW trips to Kenya and Tanzania here, here, and here. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to Kenya and Tanzania

New Zealand’s South Island

You can easily reach Fiordland Lake by helicopter. Photo: Jean-Michel Jefferson

In the southern-hemisphere winter, Queenstown is a snow-capped beauty, and there are not many people around; it is cold but heavenly, and a great time for snowshoeing and touring Fiordland by helicopter.
Read reviews of WOW trips to New Zealand. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to New Zealand

The Arctic

Summer in the Arctic means great photo opportunities. Photo: Ashton Palmer

The early summer months not only bring reasonably warm weather but also have the advantage of the midnight sun, when the near 24-hour daylight conditions make for superb photo opportunities.
Read reviews of WOW trips to the Arctic. To get your own WOW trip and VIP treatment, use the black button below.

Start a trip to the Arctic

Other Smart Options This Month

Click on any of the destinations below to find out why July is a good time to go.

North America and Caribbean

Canada: Québec

Caribbean Islands: off-peak resort rates and yacht charters

Seattle

Central and South America

Bolivia

Brazil: Rio, Pantanal Wetlands, and the southern Amazon region

Colombia: Bogota

Costa Rica: green-season deals

Ecuador: Galapagos Islands and Quito

Peru

Europe

Austria

Croatia

England: London

European Canal Barge Cruises

Italy: The Dolomites

Malta

Scotland

Sicily: first half of the month

Turkey: Istanbul and Aegean Coast

Asia and Pacific

Cambodia: green season

China: Yunnan Province

India: Agra and Ladakh

Nepal: Upper Mustang region

Africa

South Africa: Cape Town

Find Your Perfect Island Vacation Based on When You Can Travel

1 Reply

Every island has a perfect time to go. But figuring out that optimal timing can be tricky. “Peak season” often does not mean the best time to go; it just means the most expensive time, based on when school’s out in the countries that send the most vacationers to that island. “Low season” might mean peaceful and lovely, with a brief and pleasantly cooling shower each afternoon, or it might mean that every restaurant and famous site shuts down entirely. In addition to seasonal changes in weather, most islands have limited lodging—which can drive rates to extortionate levels—and some islands can get crowds that will overtax the small tourism infrastructure, especially when cruise ships stop there.

We’re here to help—by suggesting a few islands for each month of the year. These are the opportune moments when each destination is at its best yet, in most instances, offers shoulder-season pricing.

Seeking the right island or island-trip-planning specialist for your specific needs? Click on the black button below and we can help.