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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

What Is The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program And Why Do You Need It?

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As the COVID-19 pandemic continues and many countries post record-breaking daily or weekly case counts, the U.S. State Department now cautions that U.S. citizens who travel internationally may face unexpected challenges related to the coronavirus as they attempt to return to the U.S. or travel from one foreign country to another.

One of those challenges is to simply stay up-to-date on various countries’ travel restrictions. 

That’s because governments around the world continue to implement new requirements and even impose new travel restrictions as they strive to keep COVID-19 case counts down in their own countries. The problem, however, is that changes are often implemented quickly with little advance notice, which may take those traveling by surprise.

The good news is that the State Department offers a service that helps U.S. citizens and nationals stay informed about changing conditions in countries they are visiting or plan to visit. 

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service that enables U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. That way, they are able to quickly receive important information from the U.S. embassy about safety conditions in their destination country, which helps them make informed decisions about travel plans. Another benefit is that enrolling a trip in STEP makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact travelers with important information about natural disasters or civil unrest in their destination country, or to contact the traveler in the event of a family emergency.

Here’s a quick look at what you need to know about STEP before your next international trip.

Created To Assist U.S. Citizens

Consular officers at U.S. embassies and consulates can help U.S. citizens who run into legal, medical, or financial difficulties while visiting other countries. For example, if a U.S. citizen’s passport is stolen while traveling, staff at an embassy or consulate can help that traveler get a replacement passport. They can also provide the names of English-speaking doctors or local attorneys, as well as provide information about dangerous conditions.

“In a crisis situation such as a natural disaster or severe political instability, the Department of State often takes an active role in providing information and assistance to U.S. citizens in the affected area,” the State Department explains . “We encourage all U.S. citizens travelling or residing overseas to notify the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate of their contact information so that, in an emergency, we can contact them to provide important safety and security information, or support during a crisis. Enrolling in STEP is an easy way to send your contact information to us online.” 

In addition to Travel Advisories, U.S. embassies and consulates often send alerts about emerging situations in a country. It’s important to enroll your international trip in STEP because these alerts are written specifically for a traveler’s dates of travel and destination.

You can learn more about the STEP service here and create an account to enroll a trip here .

Know Before You Go

If you are planning an international trip, the State Department has two more suggestions for you. The first is to visit its Country Information webpage so you can learn about your destination.

“We provide safety and security information for every country of the world to help you assess for yourself the risks of travel. Each Country Information page contains a Travel Advisory, Alerts, and other important details specific to that country that could affect you,” the State Department explains. “Pay close attention to the entry and exit requirements, local laws and customs, health conditions, and other details to decide whether traveling to that country is right for you.”

The State Department’s Country Information web page may be found here .

The State Department’s second suggestion is to visit its Traveler’s Checklist webpage, which is found here .

That page includes information explaining how to get informed about conditions in a country you plan to visit and ensure you have all necessary documents. It also provides information about three types of insurance: health insurance, evacuation insurance, and additional insurance for unexpected expenses such as those from interrupted or delayed travel and lost luggage.

While you’re thinking about international travel, be sure to read all of our travel news coverage as well as our COVID-19 coverage, including 6 Things The State Department Says You Should Do If You’re Traveling Internationally and 21 Expert Tips For Traveling Internationally Right Now .

Jim Fulcher has been a writer and editor his entire career. In addition to writing, he also enjoys traveling--particularly in an RV. Over the course of numerous trips, Jim has driven an RV through West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. His favorite national park is Yellowstone, which he has visited three times.

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Ohayo Mama San serves up Singaporean-Japanese cocktails and food. The all-day brunch and bar-restaurant is led by the same people behind sushi restaurant Takeshi-San in Holland Village, so you can expect the same high standards here as well.

Meokja by JUNGGA , once a popular home-based business specialising in Muslim-friendly Korean fare, finally opened a physical eatery in Dhoby Ghaut. Helmed by Chef JungSangWoo, a Korean-Muslim convert, and his wife, Afrah, Meokja by JUNGGA offers a wide range of affordable Korean eats.

Tucked in a corner of  Orchard Cineleisure  is  GudSht , a hidden gem offering an endless selection of wallet-friendly booze, and delicious Japanese-inspired bites. The Japanese-influenced food menu boasts an impressive array of dishes that extend beyond the usual bar grub. Here you’ll find items ranging from bentos for quick lunches, to a wide variety of grilled skewers that go excellently well with a pint of fresh draught beer.

Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you: local chocolatier  Mr Bucket Chocolaterie has just opened their flagship store on Dempsey Hill, housing their very own chocolate factory, a chocolate cafe, a retail store, and a DIY station where you can customise a chocolate bar of your own! The first of its kind in Singapore, their Creation Station takes centre stage with its duo of chocolate fountains and 16 jars of assorted toppings, which you can add to your DIY chocolate bar —ready in just 20 minutes.

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How the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program could help you on your next trip abroad

Editor's Note

Though careful planning and common sense are two of the best ways to stay safe when traveling, security situations can rapidly change in foreign countries.

That's why the U.S. State Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs has created the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to help keep you up-to-date on relevant security updates from the nearest U.S. consulate, wherever in the world you happen to be.

Here's how to sign up for STEP.

Who should register for STEP?

The primary purpose of STEP is to keep American citizens safe. Here are a few reasons to consider signing up:

• You're traveling to an area that's politically unstable or prone to violence.
• You're taking an extended trip (several weeks or months) where you have limited Wi-Fi access.
• You're traveling for a major event, summit or conference (like the World Cup) that might become the target of protests or attacks.
• You're a minority traveling to an area where you might be targeted as an outsider.
• You'd like an additional safety resource during your trip, no matter the destination.

Some group trips or programs may require participants to enroll. For instance, I had to enroll when I studied abroad in college.

In the event of a rapidly deteriorating situation, such as a coup or natural disaster, STEP can connect you with evacuation efforts or provide important safety information and help you take care of yourself.

How to register

To register, create an account and fill in your personal information and emergency contact details.

Once your account is set up, log in and register each specific trip or residence abroad. You'll repeat this process for each new trip to receive STEP alerts.

You'll then be prompted to enroll any upcoming trips to receive STEP notifications. Select the nearest U.S. consulate to where you'll be staying. Note that "destination" refers to the country (not a specific city, state or territory), and the available options will auto-fill as you type.

Next, fill in the dates of your trip, the reason you're traveling and how you can be reached while abroad. If there are any timely alerts specific to your destination, you'll also be alerted of that information at this point.

Bottom line

It may be helpful to think of STEP like travel insurance: If all goes well, you won't need to use it, and you might even forget you have it.

However, if things go wrong while you're traveling abroad, your local U.S. embassy is the quickest way to get help; the embassy's goal is to ensure all Americans in its jurisdiction are safe and accounted for. This is when STEP notifications can become incredibly important.

The entire sign-up process takes less than five minutes, and the trip registration process takes about 60 seconds.

For additional resources, be sure to follow the State Department on Twitter and bookmark its international travel page for the latest country alerts.

Related reading:

• The difference between CDC and State Department travel warnings
• Confused by State Department travel advisories? Here's what they mean
• If you need a passport quickly, this service may be for you
• Passport processing wait times decrease for the 1st time since February
• Prepare to wait: Current Global Entry processing times are up to 11 months

Travel & Accommodations

About new orleans.

New Orleans is a vibrant city located in southeastern Louisiana, founded in 1718. Throughout its history, New Orleans has been shaped by a blend of diverse cultures, including French, Spanish, African, and Creole. The city is known for its lively music scene, delicious cuisine, and unique architecture, all of which are a testament to its rich cultural heritage. 

New Orleans is a city full of diverse neighborhoods that each offer a unique and distinct experience. The French Quarter is arguably the most famous, with its iconic architecture, lively bars, and historic landmarks like Jackson Square. The Garden District is another gem, known for its stunning mansions, oak-lined streets, and proximity to Magazine Street – a bustling commercial area with a plethora of shops and restaurants. The Bywater and Marigny are two neighborhoods known for their creative energy and artsy vibes, with quirky shops, galleries, and street art around every corner. And let’s not forget about the up-and-coming neighborhoods like Mid-City and Freret, which offer a glimpse into the future of this dynamic city.  Whether you’re looking to sample the city’s famous eateries or experience our award-winning jazz, New Orleans offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is hard to find anywhere else.

Join us for Young, Smart & Local 2023 to learn what it means to love New Orleans!

Travel & Accommodations

Hotel kimpton fontenot.

501 Tchoupitoulas St. New Orleans, LA 70130 Rate: $199/night Reserve a room here! Distance from venue: 4-minute drive / 10-minute walk

Contact: Website | 504-571-1818

Virgin Hotel New Orleans

550 Baronne St. New Orleans, LA 70113 Rate: $199/night Reserve a room here! Distance from venue: 4-minute drive / 11-minute walk

Contact: Website | 504-603-8000

Hyatt Place New Orleans Convention Center

881 Convention Center Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70130 Rate: $179/night Reserve a room here! Distance from venue: 3-minute drive / 8-minute walk

Contact: Website | 504-524-1881

Le Méridien New Orleans

Contact: Website | 504-525-9444

The Higgins Hotel New Orleans

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport

1 Terminal Dr. Kenner, LA 70062 Airport Code: MSY

Amtrak – Union Passenger Terminal

1001 Loyola Ave New Orleans, LA 70113

Venues & Parking

Welcome reception venue.

Hotel Peter & Paul

2317 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70117

Doerr Furniture Parking Lot

914 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116

Guests may park for free in this lot. There will be security on site.

Conference Venue

Contemporary arts center.

900 Camp St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Day-rate parking is available at nearby Premium Parking lots. Metered street parking is also available.

Guests will be required to pay for their own parking.

Local Restaurants

New Orleans is one of the top food cities in the world. There are countless delicious restaurants to choose from! To help make your search a little easier, we’ve listed some of our favorites below.

Please note: these are popular, beloved restaurants! You may need to call ahead to reserve a table.

• Cuisine: Mexican
• Cuisine: Global
• Cuisine: French

Clancy’s

• Cuisine: Creole
• Cuisine: Cajun

Commander’s Palace

• Dress code : Business attire. Jackets are preferred for gentlemen. Collared shirts and closed toe shoes are required for gentlemen. No shorts, flip-flops, t-shirts, sweatshirts, or sweatpants are allowed. Jeans are discouraged, and ripped jeans are not allowed. 

Compere Lapin

• Cuisine:  Caribbean & European
• Cuisine:  New American
• Cuisine: Thai
• Cuisine: Italian

Dooky Chase Restaurant

• Cuisine: Seafood

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

• Cuisine: Japanese
• Cuisine: French & American

Hungry Eyes

• Cuisine: Global “Luxury Drinking Food”

Irene’s 

• Cuisine: French & Italian

La Petite Grocery

• Cuisine: Creole & Cajun
• Cuisine: Indian
• Cuisine:   Chinese & Japanese
• Cuisine: New American

Miss Shirley’s

• Cuisine: Chinese

Osteria Lupo

Paladar 511

Palm & Pine

• Cuisine: Mexican & Caribbean
• Cuisine: Creole & Southern

Pigeon and Whale

Queen Trini Lisa

• Cuisine: Trinbagonian Island Soul Food

Ralph’s on the Park

• Cuisine: Global Creole
• Cuisine: Israeli

Superior Seafood

The High Hat Cafe

• Cuisine: Southern

Tito’s Ceviche & Pico

• Cuisine:  Peruvian

Toups’ Meatery

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics

Are you traveling or living outside the U.S.? STEP is a free service that sends you emails with updates from the local U.S. embassy or consulate. If there’s an emergency where you are, it helps us contact you with instructions on what to do.

Why join STEP?

• Get real time updates about health, weather, safety, and security in the country.
• Plan ahead using information from the local U.S. embassy.
• Help the embassy or consulate contact you if there’s an emergency like a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency.

What kind of messages does STEP send? Currently, STEP sends emails only. STEP can send you several types of information:

• Routine Messages : News and updates about the country you picked.
• Alerts : Messages about short-term security, terrorism, health, weather, or disaster situations that could impact your travels.
• Travel Advisories : We re-evaluate the situation in each country every 6-12 months. Advisories include a simple 1-4 rating system, details about specific risks in the country, and clear steps U.S. citizens should take to stay safe.

Join the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

After you set up your account, you can pick what types of messages you want to get.

Stay in touch during an emergency.  Signing up for STEP helps the U.S. embassy get in touch with you if there’s an emergency. And, if your family or friends in the U.S. can’t reach you with urgent news while you’re traveling, we can use the information in STEP to try and contact you.

Become a Smart Traveler Now!   STEP is an easy first step to being a smart traveler. You should also always research your destination , and consider additional ways to get safety and security information from the U.S. Department of State, like on social media.

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Learn about your destination

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

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2022 Ultimate Phuket Guide: Entry Requirements, New Attractions, Promotions & More

2022 Ultimate Phuket Guide

A new year calls for new adventures. If there is one thing Phuket can deliver, it’s an unforgettable holiday.

With the worst of the Omicron wave behind us and signs that the world may finally be approaching the end of the pandemic , there is no better time than now to pay Phuket a visit. From sandy beaches to scenic marvels, Phuket has something for everyone.

From entry requirements to new attractions, we’ve put together the ultimate guide for anyone looking to vacation in the ‘Pearl of the Andaman’ in 2022.

Getting into Phuket

While the rest of Thailand has gone through various stages of lockdowns, the Phuket Sandbox Program has remained open since it kicked off on 1st July 2021.

If you’re looking to travel to Phuket under this popular programme, then read on for a list of entry requirements and flights. 

Phuket Sandbox entry requirements

Entry requirements for the Phuket Sandbox Programme have remained largely unchanged since it started. The core requirements are as follows:

• Have a valid visa or permit (if applicable)
• Travellers aged ≥18 must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19
• Have a confirmed booking at a SHA+ hotel
• Minimum coverage USD100,000

The insurance requirement may sound daunting at first sight. But fret not. 

In order for you to get the best insurance package, we’d recommend using TraveliGo , which allows you to compare and decide on the best travel insurance option for your trip.

Once you have all your documents ready, simply head over to coethailand.mfa.go.th to apply for your COE (Certificate of Entry) . Take note that the approval process for the COE generally takes an average of 3 working days.

Direct flights to Phuket

After receiving your COE, you can now arrange your flights. 

You’ll be glad to know that the cost of flights to Phuket aren’t that different from pre-Covid times.

As one of the most popular destinations in the world, direct flights to Phuket run on a daily basis from most cities. For the best flight deals, we’d recommend TraveliGo’s flight portal .

Once you’ve got your flight tickets booked, remember to obtain a RT-PCR negative test result that is issued no later than 72 hours prior to your departure.

With documents ready and flights booked, it’s time for the fun part: choosing where to stay and what to do.

Where to stay in Phuket

The main draw of a holiday in Phuket is that quarantine is basically non-existent. For the first seven days of your trip, you are free to roam about and explore all that Phuket has to offer.

The only stipulation is that all visitors – tourist and residents alike – are required to stay in SHA+ accommodation. With over 450 SHA+ hotels to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Our top recommendation, however, is Movenpick Myth Hotel in Patong, Phuket.

Conveniently located near the famous Patong Beach , this lavish 5-star hotel boasts an elegant aesthetic that combines its Sino-Portuguese roots with a minimalist contemporary design.

Arguably the centrepiece of the entire resort, the hotel has a massive free-form swimming pool which will make a great addition to your IG feed. Not an ordinary pool, this pool boasts not one, but two waterfalls. We’ll throw in a shout-out to the swanky swim-up bar as well.

Photogenic amenities aside, the resort also houses a full-fledged eatery called Átrio Restaurant . Look forward to a wide selection of cuisine that encompasses Thai, Chinese and Western options.

Of course, a trip to Phuket wouldn’t feel right without a visit to the spa. 

If you stay at Movenpick Myth Hotel, you don’t even have to venture out for a spa session. Pamper yourself right here at A VIDA Spa , which offers a wide range of rejuvenating spa treatments.

Choosing the right hotel

If there is one thing that Phuket does not lack, it’s great accommodation. While Movenpick Myth Hotel is our choice pick, you should ultimately select a hotel that best matches your budget and needs.

With so many options available, this is easier said than done. Narrow down your search with TraveliGo’s hotel search portal , which categorises hotels based on their location and rates.

Getting around Phuket

Speaking of location, one thing to consider when booking hotels is their distance from the attractions you wish to visit. 

Anyone who has ever been to Phuket can vouch for the fact that taxis there are much more expensive than anywhere else in Thailand

However, if you happen to find a hotel that ticks all of the boxes but is a little far away from all the other places you’re looking to visit, do consider these affordable car rental options .

What to do in Phuket

With up to seven days to kill before travelling to other places in Thailand, there’s so much to do and see. 

Insider tip: there is more to Phuket than the Big Buddha and Phuket Old Town . 

Here are some of our recommendations on lesser-known attractions you should check out during your vacation in Phuket.

1. Hanuman World – Thailand’s newest eco-adventure zipline park

Unleash your inner Tarzan ( or Jane ) at this massive eco-adventure park nestled within a lush rainforest in the heart of Phuket.

At Hanuman World , there is something for everyone. Soar through the air on one of their many ziplines – adrenaline junkies can take it a step further by attempting their Roller Coaster Zipline; a thrilling ride not for the faint of heart.

When you’re done soaring through the jungle skies, abseil your way down to the jungle floor.   

For those of you who prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground, fret not. There are IG-worthy spiral staircases for you to sculpt your glutes at. 

But if you prefer a more relaxing activity, simply stroll through their skywalk and soak in the sights and sounds of the rainforest.

One of Phuket’s best kept secrets, Hanuman World is a must-visit attraction, especially for urban dwellers looking for a break from the concrete jungle. It’s a place you easily spend an entire day at.

Check out their wide range of packages here , many of which come with round trip hotel transfers.

Hanuman World Opening Hours: 8AM – 5PM, Daily Address: 105 Moo 4 Muang Jao Fa Road, Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000 Telephone: +66 6 2979 5533 Hanuman World website | Google Maps

2. Boat Avenue – Thailand’s first container mall with weekly night markets

Located in Cherng Talay, Boat Avenue holds the distinction of being Thailand’s first container mall. A shopping and eating haven, Boat Avenue is a spot that you can easily spend the day at.

From massage parlours to clothing stores, there’s no lack of retail outlets here to satisfy your inner shopaholic. If you’re looking to whip up meals in your accommodation, keep your eyes peeled for a high-end supermarket called Villa Market .

There are a wide array of container eateries here, offering everything from spice-loaded Mexican fare at The Mexican to local Southern Thai cuisine. 

For those of you who prefer an air-conditioned environment, we’ve also got you covered. There are plenty of indoor options you can hide out in. For brunch, we’d recommend Waya Cafe , which has an all-day breakfast menu alongside mains such as pasta dishes.

If you’re looking for something a bit more magical and family-friendly than a container mall, then the next attraction will be right up your alley. 

Boat Avenue Opening Hours: 9AM – 10PM, Daily Address: 49/13 Bandon-Cherngtalay Road Cherngtalay Phuket 83110 Telephone: +66 7 630 4635 Boat Avenue Facebook | Google Maps

3. Hog’s Head Pub: New Harry Potter-inspired bar & cafe

Harry Potter may be over two decades old. But judging from the success of the Harry Potter Reunion Special , the lure of Hogwarts is as strong today as it was in the early 2000s.

Instead of rewatching the beloved films (again), head over to Hog’s Head Pub to relive the magic of the wizarding world once more.

From crooked door frames, to old-timey ceiling lamps adorning weathered brick walls, everything about this hidden gem is designed to transport its inhabitants into the wonderful world of Harry Potter.

Opened in 2020, once eagle-eyed fans step into the premises, they’ll be able to spot all manner of memorabilia – Sorting Hat we see you – to cue the waves of nostalgia.

Here, us mere muggles can enjoy a glass of the famed Butterbeer ฿95 (~USD3) or even the Liquid Luck ฿95 (~USD3) .

As for foods, the pub has Thai favourites like Stir-Fried Pork Basil Leaves With Rice ฿89 (~USD3) as well as pub staples like French Fries ฿120 (~USD5) and Cornish Pasties ฿120 (~USD5) . 

Hog’s Head Pub Address: 15-61 Yaowarat Rd., Talat Nuea sub-district, Mueang Phuket district, Phuket province, Thailand 83000. Opening Hours: 10AM – 11PM, Daily Telephone: +66 8 1956 1095 Hog’s Head Pub website

4. Splash Jungle Water Park – Phuket’s wildest water park

This family friendly attraction prides itself on being Phuket’s wildest wettest water park. It’s a mantle that is certainly well deserved.

The highlight of Splash Jungle Water Park is arguably the Whizzard, a rainbow coloured roller coaster that takes its riders through a 360-degree loop before a thrilling climax down its colourful slides.

Keep a look out for the Family Raft Ride, a safe but thrilling ride full of unexpected twists and turns.

Although the raft can go up to speeds of 33KM/hr, rest assured that this ride is suitable for children too as you can take the ride along with your kids to ensure they are safely buckled in throughout the ride.

Splash Jungle Water Park doesn’t just boast thrilling rides.

There are attractions here for people of all ages and preferences. Kids can frolic in the Aqua Play & Kids Pool while those of you looking to unwind can float your way through the 335M-long Lazy River.

Once you’re done with all the rides that this water oasis has to offer, satisfy your hunger pangs at their Jungle Deli or Coconut Cafe, or both!

Pro-tip: Save some Baht by getting discounted tickets here .

Splash Jungle Water Park Opening Hours: 10AM – 5.45PM, Thursday – Monday (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) Address: 65 179 Soi Mai Khao 4, Mai Khao, Thalang District, Phuket 83110 Telephone: +66 7 637 2111 Splash Jungle Water Park website | Google Maps

Specially curated tours in Phuket

If you don’t want to venture off the beaten track or aren’t too keen on planning an itinerary, you can opt for specially curated tours too.

Whether it’s admiring the sunset atop the iconic Laem Phromthep or a 3D2N diving adventure , you’re bound to find a tour that suits your taste. You can check out the full list of available Phuket tours here .

Plan your trip from start to finish with TraveliGo

Travelling during the new normal is definitely more of a hassle compared to the good old days. If you feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone.

That’s why, on trips during this crucial transition period, we’d recommend using travel portals that help collate and sort through your options. From the cheapest airfares to exclusive promotions , TraveliGo is a one-stop platform to take care of all your travel needs, and def worth checking out in our books.

Start planning your trip to Phuket here

Places to explore in Phuket:

• Chillva Market in Phuket is a boho market
• The Shrine of the Serene Light is a Chinese Temple in Phuket 
• Chalong Bay Distillery is Phuket’s rum factory

Cover images adapted from: Movenpick Myth Hotel , Hog’s Head Phuket and TheSmartLocal

Enjoying The Smart Local Thailand? Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more stories like this.

This post was brought to you by TraveliGo .

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The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2023

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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For those truly epic, once-in-a-lifetime destinations, you want to leave your itinerary to the experts. Whether your dream is to see the Big Five on an African Safari, trek tall mountains, explore European cities, or something even wilder, a group tour is the easiest way to do it.

However, picking the wrong group tour company is the quickest way to ruin your trip. Make sure you choose a tour company that aligns with your goals and travel styles. Do you want an intimate group tour or do you prefer to make lots of new friends in a big group? Does the price line up with what you like (luxury vs. budget)? Is the itinerary going to all the places you want to see? 

We’ve done the research and found the very best group travel tour companies for 2023 for every type of traveler.

Best Overall Group Travel: Exodus Travels

With trips on every continent, Exodus Travels covers anywhere on this planet that you could possibly want to go, from popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast to well off-the-beaten path adventures like Tajikistan. This award-winning group travel company boasts thousands of repeat customers who sign up for trips year after year (97% of past participants would recommend Exodus Travels to a friend). 

These small group tours operate with only around 12-16 people, and always feature experienced local leaders who can give you a unique insight into your destination. Exodus Travels caters to any type of travel style, including trips broken down by type of activity (think walking, cycling, multi-adventure, winter, or cultural) as well as type of traveler (family, age group, etc.). There are curated collections (coastal, “away from it all”, European wilderness, and trips of a lifetime) to inspire you, as well as self-guided options for when you want all the benefits of a group tour planner without the actual group. Looking for that special safari? Exodus Travels just partners with the African Wildlife Foundation to create carefully curated luxury adventures that go above and beyond the standard safari. 

Exodus Travels tours work for almost any budget, with options that range from affordable to premium. 

Top Trip: Explore under-the-radar Europe by foot on Exodus Travels’ Lakes & Mountains of Slovenia walking tour .

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Best Adventure Group Travel: World Expeditions

World Expeditions has been taking adventurous travelers to remote locations all over the world ever since its first group trek through Nepal in 1975. Today, World Expeditions offers active itineraries on every continent. Intrepid travelers can opt for trips themed around mountaineering, rafting, cycling, hiking, and more. 

World Expeditions aims to leave communities and places where they operate tours better than they found them. Trips are created using the company’s Thoughtful Travel Charter as a guideline, which emphasizes respect for the environment, sustainability, having a positive impact on local communities, protecting wildlife, and more. 

World Expeditions’ trips are capped at just 16 people to provide a good experience for participants, and there are no single supplements for solo travelers willing to share a room with someone of the same gender. 

Top Trip: Summit Africa’s tallest mountain on a fully-supported trek up Kilimanjaro on World Expeditions’ eight day trip up the beautiful Lemosho Route . 

Best Budget Group Travel: G Adventures 

For travelers on a budget, G Adventures offers cheap group tours that make dream destinations accessible to nearly anyone. (Think: sailing the Galapagos for just $1,124 , criss-crossing India’s Golden Triangle for $559 , or spending 8 days in Bali for less than $800.)

G Adventures is one of the best tour companies for solo travelers as well, as most trips don’t have a single-supplement. You can choose to share a room with another G Adventures solo traveler, or pay extra to have your own space.

G Adventures keeps costs down by opting for cheaper hotels and local meals, and making certain activities optional (for an additional cost). Pick your travel style—options range from “basic” to more luxe tours run in partnership with National Geographic. Family tours, local living tours (featuring homestays), and wellness-focused tours are also available. 

Top Trip: G Adventures’ China Express trip is a great way to see the highlights of China if you’re short on both time and budget. 

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Best Educational Group Tours: EF Go Ahead Tours

When you really want to learn about a destination, consider a group trip with EF Go Ahead Tours . EF is the world’s largest private education company, and the Go Ahead Tours arm capitalizes on the company’s relationships with local educators, historians, and tour guides to create group trips that take you deep into a destination. 

These small group tours generally cap at 38 travelers, and feature unique educational experiences. For a bucket list trip, EF Go Ahead Tour’s special event tours are particularly enticing, as they offer behind-the-scenes access to tough-to-plan trips like Oktoberfest in Munich or Cherry Blossom season in Japan. 

Intimidated by solo travel? EF Go Ahead Tours is a great option for solo travelers, since it offers designated trips for solo travelers , where everyone is traveling alone, making it less intimidating.  

Top Trip: Bring the tastes of Italy home with you on EF Go Ahead Tours’ Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour (operated in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen), where you’ll learn how to make local dishes. 

Best Responsible Group Travel: Intrepid Travel

Looking for a responsible group travel operator that focuses on bettering the communities and destinations they visit? Intrepid Travel is the world’s largest travel B Corporation, a certification for companies doing good. 

Intrepid Travel’s tours focus on sustainability, diversity, inclusion, and sustaining communities. The company has its own charity, The Intrepid Foundation , which has donated over 7 million dollars to over 130 community organizations. 

Intrepid Travel’s small group tours attract a wide range of travelers, but they are especially great for younger travelers, as they have a large number of trips designed for people aged 18-29 . (Other trips, including family-focused trips, are geared toward any age.)

Top Trip: Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters on Intrepid Travel’s Premium Uganda & Rwanda trip which includes time with the mountain gorillas of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. 

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Best Private Group Travel: Kensington Tours

Whether your group consists of just two people or involves taking the entire extended family, Kensington Tours will take all the hassle of planning out of the equation. This private group operator creates personalized trips and itineraries tailored to your preferences, while their experts handle all the logistics and bookings. 

Plans are entirely flexible, and can even be changed while on the trip on a whim. Need some inspiration? Browse Kensington Tours’ travel ideas , to get some ideas for your next adventure. 

Top Trip: Sail around the stunning shores of Croatia and the Dalmation Islands on a private luxury catamaran on Kensington Tours’ fully customizable tour . 

Best Polar Group Travel: Chimu Adventures

Whether you’re headed north to the Artic or south to Antarctica, Chimu Adventures has the perfect polar group trip for you. Chimu Adventures has some of the most variety for polar trips, with options to fly, cruise, or a combination of both to get to your destination.

For an ultra-unique Antarctica trip, Chimu Adventures offers cruises departing from Australia or New Zealand (most Antarctica trips depart from Argentina). Can’t stay long? Book one of Chimu Adventures’ scenic flights to Antarctica , which fly as far as the south pole in one spectacular 16-hour day.

Chimu Adventures is one of the cheapest group trips to Antarctica, with rates starting under $5,000.

Top Trip: If you’re pressed for time (or simply don’t have the stomach for the Drake Passage), Chimu Adventures’ Antarctica Fly Cruise will get you to the ends of the earth quickly and smoothly.

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Best Group Tours for Solo Travelers: For the Love of Travel

Group tours can be a great way to meet new people, but they can sometimes skew on the older age range. If you’re between 25-39 and a solo traveler looking to meet new people, you’ll love For the Love of Travel . All participants on the trips are between 25-39, and according to the company, 80 percent are solo travelers—so you’ll make friends fast. Hoping to meet someone who will be more than just a friend on your next trip? Trips include a balanced number of “gal and guy spots” to ensure an even balance of genders within groups (and of course, non-binary genders are always welcome). 

For the Love of Travel offers weeklong (or longer) international trips as well as shorter weekender trips to nearby destinations like Mexico or Denver—perfect for people without a lot of vacation time.

Top Trip: Sleep in a glass igloo under the Northern Lights, go sledding with huskies, and warm up in traditional saunas on For the Love of Travel’s Lapland tour , already booking dates for 2024.

Best Biking Tours Group Travel: DuVine Cycling

Biking through the rolling hills of Italy or across the mountain roads of Chile sounds like a dream, but the logistics seem daunting (especially if you don’t want to haul all your own stuff from point-to-point). Enter: DuVine Cycling , a luxury small group tour company that specializes in bike trips. 

With trips across Europe, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States, DuVine Cycling is a cyclist’s dream. Choose from all-biking trips or mix things up with a cycle and sail bike tour or a multi-sport adventure —no matter what, everything is included, from luxury boutique accommodations to top-quality name brand bikes. 

Top Trip: DuVine’s Holland Bike Tour promises “tulips, windmills, beer, and cheese”—what more could you need?

Best Luxury Group Travel: Abercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent has been delighting discerning travelers since 1962. Today, they take travelers on unforgettable adventures across over 100 different countries and all seven continents. Although Abercrombie & Kent’s trips are pricey, they encompass once-in-a-lifetime experiences like private jet tours around the world or luxury chartered cruises .

There are trips designed for solo travelers and families , and the small group journeys max out at around 14-18 guests.

Top Trip: Swim with whale sharks in the Philippines, feed proboscis monkeys in Malaysia, and photograph wild tigers in India on Abercrombie & Kent’s Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet trip , already booking dates into 2024.

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Smart Travel: 10 Advantages of Having Local Currency While Abroad

Posted: December 14, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

When traveling anywhere, you need to be prepared. Sometimes, we make a checklist of everything we need to ensure we don’t miss anything. Phone and laptop chargers, important documents, credit cards, towels, blankets, or anything at all that’s essential for our trip. Something else that’s important, especially when traveling internationally, is local currency. Some people overlook this, favoring credit cards over physical cash. But there are reasons why doing this isn’t very advisable.

In an online platform, a user asks about the relevance of bringing local cash when traveling, and here are some of the responses they got.

1. You Never Know

One user said they like to have a small amount of local cash with them because you never know when you might need it. According to them, you could encounter a cash-only place you want to buy from, or your credit card company will see an international transaction and lock the card. “Last time I traveled internationally, I brought some euros in cash with me,” they said. “I didn’t use a single of those euros, but I still don’t at all regret bringing them.”

2. Helps With Budget

A participant in the discussion said they carry local currency because it helps them budget for the trip. If it’s just a card swipe every time, they will spend more than they planned at an unknown exchange rate. “But if I know I used $500 and I have half left, and I’m only a quarter through my trip, I’m going to change my habits to stick to my budget.”

3. Banks Freaking Out

One user said they don’t take local cash when traveling internationally, which sometimes affects them. They usually get into the country late at night, and the banks are closed, so now they have to find some sketchy all-night ATM just to pay the driver. Also, your bank could freak out and restrict your account, thinking it’s a fraudulent transaction. They might still freak out and block the transaction even when you inform them that you’re traveling and tell them your destination. So, it’s best to have some extra local cash on hand, just in case.

4. Better Exchange Rates

According to one user, one reason to exchange cash before leaving is that there are often better exchange rates at home than abroad. Also, many credit cards have foreign transaction fees, so bringing cash rather than just cards is always a good deal.

5. ATM Problems

“Clearly, you’ve never had ATM problems in a foreign country,” one user said, responding to the poster. “Nor have you been in a country that has widespread ATM/banking issues. You also have no idea how easy it is for an American bank to get any foreign currency with little notice.”

6. Incidentals

It’s worth having a little bit of money for incidentals, a user said. Things like wanting to buy a coffee or snack upon arrival, tips for luggage assistance, and transportation when first arriving. You can do all these things with a bit of money before finding an ATM or exchange and getting a local phone SIM. Another user agreed, saying, “That’s about the same for me. $100- $150 will get me through at least day 1, a quick bite, and a train ticket out of the airport.”

7. Depends on the Country

For this user, it depends on the country you’re going to. Japan, for example, is a very cash-heavy country. Many places don’t do credit cards, and ATMs charge exorbitant foreign exchange fees. “When I went to spend some months there,” the user said, “I brought some Yen with me. It was cheaper and easier overall.”

This user said he always gets local currency before he travels because he can do it at his leisure in a place where he is comfortable. This ensures that when he lands, he can just worry about getting his luggage, finding ground transportation, and getting to his hotel. There is no need to try finding an ATM. “What happens if I go to the ATM and for some reason have trouble making a withdrawal? Or if I didn’t see an ATM and my credit card wasn’t being accepted?” he said.

A user said the unfortunate scenario happened to her husband once when they were in Mexico. ATM denied a transaction, so he had to find a local bank and stand in a long line for at least 20 minutes to get some money. Given it was almost the end of bank hours, he had to go to the closest bank, where the exchange rate and fees sucked.

10. No Atms

“Certain places we go, like parts of Mexico, have no ATMs,” said one user. “Some of the ATMs they have are not trustworthy (allegedly). When we went to Cozumel, almost no one took cards. We had to cut one of our excursions short because we ran out of local currency. So the idea of being screwed without local currency is strong.”

Source: Reddit .

Generational Shift: 18 Classic Cars Loved by Boomers, Snubbed by Millennials

In the world of automobiles, some cars are timeless, forever etched in the minds and hearts of those who drove them. But generational shifts in taste and values can lead to once-beloved vehicles being relegated to the shadows. Let’s revisit 18 classic cars adored by Baby Boomers but often overlooked by Millennials.

From Boom to Bust: 18 States on the Brink of Financial Ruin—What Went Wrong?

We’re embarking on a financial roller coaster ride through 18 states, and it isn’t the fun kind. We’re talking about states having to check under the mattress and behind the couch cushions for extra change. These states are trying to balance their budgets, but the numbers aren’t increasing. Why are they skimming through their wallets like they lost a 20-dollar bill? Let’s find out!

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Living from paycheck to paycheck puts one in a dangerous financial bind. It’s more prevalent than you can imagine. According to a survey by CNBC, more than half of all Americans (58%) live paycheck to paycheck. When money is tight, it’s crucial to pinpoint and cut out wasteful expenditures that eat away at your hard-earned savings.

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Human-sounding AI can plan, help book your travel. But can you trust it?

It wasn’t so long ago that travelers planned trips without the internet.

“Back in the day, our parents used to go to these travel agents and really kind of express what they were looking for and what kind of vacation they wanted,” said Saad Saeed, co-founder and CEO of Layla, an AI travel planner whose website launched this year. “Slowly, we kind of acclimatized ourselves to start using these search boxes, clicks, these forms and filters.”

Artificial intelligence-driven tools like Layla can now turn back the clock on that experience, engaging with users almost like humans to customize travel plans with lightning speed plus all the resources of the web. But does AI actually make travel planning easier and can it compare to human expertise? 

Yes and no. Here’s why.

Can AI actually understand us?

It can try. 

“What are you personally looking for in this trip and what do you want out of it?” asked Saeed. “Do you want to reconnect with your partner, for example, or do you want to just feel some adventure and thrill?” 

A human travel agent may ask a series of questions to understand a client’s needs. So can generative AI , which picks up on keywords. Mindtrip, an AI planner launched publicly on May 1, has an actual travel quiz that asks users to rank priorities like “Is your ideal vacation day an exhilarating adventure or a relaxing break?” using sliding scales.

“What we get at the end of that quiz, using the AI, is a really customized description,” explained  Mindtrip Founder and CEO Andy Moss. That then informs what the AI suggests to the traveler. 

Informed suggestions can save users time in narrowing down destinations and experiences, as well as  introduce places users may never have discovered on their own.

AI travel planning is here: How to use it to plan your next vacation and what you should know first

Can AI fully replace humans?

No. Layla may sound human, using conversational phrases like “I've got three cozy nests that won't make your wallet cry.”

“She has a personality. We try to make her funny and so on, where it's really that friend that can get to know you and then recommend you the perfect stuff,” Saeed said.

But part of Layla’s expertise comes from the real-life experiences of some 1,600 travel content creators  the Berlin-based platform has partnered with. Their videos and insights can give users a richer picture of what to expect.

Mindtrip also leans on human expertise, having tapped a limited group of travel influencers for curated content with plans to eventually open it up so anyone can share their travel itineraries and experiences with the public.

Story continues below.

Is AI a threat to privacy?

With all the rapid advancements in AI in just the past year, some users are wary of its safety .

“Data privacy is definitely one of our biggest concerns, and we ensure that none of the personal identifiable information ever reaches basically the model providers. That will all stay with us,” Layla’s Saeed said. “None of their personally identifiable data can ever be basically used to profile them or basically go into any of these systems, which are training these different models.”

Booz Allen Hamilton, the nation’s largest provider of AI to the federal government , focuses heavily on ethical and  secure AI, as well as adhering to the government’s policies on data collection. 

“We collect as little information as we can in order to provide a secure transaction,” said Booz Allen Hamilton Senior Vice President Will Healy, who heads up their recreation work, including Recreaton.gov , the government’s central travel planning site for public lands like national parks. “We don't save your searches. We don't save your credit card data. We're very careful about the data that we store.”

Yoon Kim, an assistant professor in MIT’s Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department and Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory , isn’t too worried about security in the initial brainstorming stages of travel planning with AI.

“I don't see, at this point, how AI-generated advice is spiritually different from travel guide articles that you might read on certain websites,” he said. “Travel planning is one really nice use case of these models, as narrow as it is, because it's a scenario in which you want to be given ideas but you don't actually need to commit to them.” 

What’s next for AI? 

Things could be different, though, if AI is used beyond trip planning. Deloitte sees AI being woven into all parts of travel.

“There is an opportunity for a real engine – I'm going to just use a generic term, engine – that allows you to search and pull it all together and to sort based off of your personal reasons for prioritization and then not stopping at ‘hey give me a list’ or ‘here's what to do,’ but ‘OK, now go create my itinerary, help me book it, track it all the way through that travel process,” said Matt Soderberg, principal, U.S. airlines leader for Deloitte. 

Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report, released in early April, identifies seven stages where AI can intersect with a trip, from personalized recommendations based on past travel, online purchases and tendencies to day-of issues to a post-travel pulse, where travelers may be asked about their experience and start thinking about future trips. 

“When you solve across all of those, that's going to be the Holy Grail,” Soderberg said. “The difficulty is that doesn't all sit in one place. And so how do you get the right information and the right data to bring all of that together for a single experience for the consumer? And who's going to own that?”

Layla and Mindtrip, among others, already offer booking through partners like Booking.com. “It's all about making things actionable,” Moss said.

But for now, if issues come up mid-trip, AI tools can’t fix them like humans can. Humans still have to get involved.