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5 Epic Dream Trips and How to Make Them Happen (Video)

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

There's nothing like waking up at sunrise in a big, comfortable bed with the Taj Mahal outside your window — except maybe basking in a glorious sunset from the pool of your overwater bungalow in Bora Bora.

Some experiences really are dreams come true, and they don't have to feel like a gargantuan chore to plan. The first step is deciding what your idea of a dream trip is. "For some people, the idea of a dream trip is really just a time out," said Stacy Small, the founder and CEO of Elite Travel International, which focuses on crafting luxury travel experiences for executives, entrepreneurs and celebrities. Small says requests for bucket-list type experiences are fewer and farther between than they once were.

While there are still travelers looking to summit Kilimanjaro and go on safaris in East Africa, "the idea of a dream trip is changing," Small said, adding it's "more about getting the family together." Many families are choosing to travel with young children, often turning vacations into educational experiences, she said.

Whether it's a relaxing escape, a family walk through history, an escape into nature or something you seek, we've got an itinerary for you. Here are five dream trips and what you need to know about planning them.

Relax in an overwater bungalow

If your idea of a dream trip is an escape to a quiet corner of paradise, Bora Bora has an overwater bungalow for you.

The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offers nearly 50 acres of French Polynesian paradise, featuring the largest over water villas and suites in the South Pacific. Expect to spend your days enjoying crystal blue waters, lounging on white sand beaches and taking in view of picturesque Mount Otemanu, with its rich vegetation.

Bungalows range in size from 1,500 to 3,500 square feet, many with pools, whirlpools, and decks for outdoor dining. Each comes with viewing panels to give you a glimpse of the turquoise water below. Prices for overwater bungalows start at $1,900 during high season, $1,500 during low season, or at 85,000 points for rewards redemption. The St. Regis Bora Bora is part of the Marriott International portfolio, so consider a card like the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card from Chase , which currently has a 75,000-point new cardmember bonus offer, to make this dream come true.

When you're ready to leave your bungalow, consider visiting a Tahitian pearl farm or taking an excursion lagoon cruise to see sharks and feed sting rays. Don't try to make this one a last-minute dream trip, though. The St. Regis recommends booking overwater bungalows at least a couple of months ahead.

Experience la dolce vita in Italy

If your idea of a dream trip involves beach time, fresh Italian food, celeb-spotting and maybe a yacht, fly into Naples and head toward Italy's Amalfi Coast .

Exploring this region known for its cliffside towns, epic views, limoncello and fresh seafood. From Sorrento, you can hire a yacht or catch a ferry to Ischia, an island known for its thermal baths and fine wines, or to Capri, known for its colorful lagoons. Sorrento is near both Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii, the ancient city destroyed when Mt. Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, making it easy to delve deep into history when you're ready to take a break from island hopping, sipping limoncello, and sampling gelato.

From Sorrento, you can also rent a car, hire a car and driver, or rent a yacht to explore a half dozen picturesque towns including Amalfi, Ravello, and Positano.

Wake up to the Taj Mahal

If your idea of a dream trip is checking out a wonder of the world, pack your bags and head to northern India. Fly into New Delhi to embark on your journey through India's Golden Triangle.

Hire a car and driver to explore the city's sights, making time to wander around the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and old Delhi. Pay your respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, and when you're ready, catch an express train to Agra. Express trains will take you from Delhi to Agra in under two hours. When you're ready to explore the Taj Mahal, plan to spend several hours there and hire a guide to help you spot architectural secrets you might otherwise miss.

After two nights in Agra, you'll likely be ready for something new. Head to Jaipur, India's famed pink city to complete your Golden Triangle experience. From October through March, a trip like this would come in around $2,600 total for a party of two, said Ankur Sharma of Meet India Tours.

Fall asleep to the Northern Lights

If you're looking to experience a natural phenomenon on your dream trip, catch a flight to Reykjavik. Iceland is located at 65 degrees North, at the edge of the Arctic Circle, and offers one of your best chances to see the Northern Lights without the extremely cold temperatures you would have to endure in other parts of Scandinavia.

Start your journey toward the Northern Lights with a dip in the Blue Lagoon, a thermal spa complex located not far from Keflavik International Airport, to shake off any jet lag you may have.

If you choose to stay in Reykjavik, several companies offer Northern Lights tours. If you'd prefer to drive, renting a car is also an option — just beware of the Icelandic roads in winter.

Go on safari in South Africa

If your idea of a dream trip is a crossing a safari off your bucket list, head to South Africa. The country is especially good for first safari experiences as it offers so much more than safaris, said Stacy Small, CEO and founder of Elite Travel International. An easy first safari could start with a flight into Johannesburg and then a road trip to Kruger National Park in the eastern part of the country.

South Africa is home not only to Kruger National Park, but also has beaches, mountains and wine country in addition to bustling cities like Cape Town. "There's a lot to do over a two-week trip," Small said.

And Kruger isn't the only option for wildlife seekers. South Africa is home to several private game reserves as well.

Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 60 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

• Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
• Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
• Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
• Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Lower Volga Voyage

• Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
• Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
• Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

• Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
• Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

Vodka Shot - 6 days

• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
• Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

• Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
• Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

Small Group Moscow Tours

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

• Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

• Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
• Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

Best Moscow Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

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Moscow reviews & ratings, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

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25 Dream Travel Destinations You Need To Visit In 2024

Imagine a year of wanderlust fulfilled, a year when your passport collects more stamps than ever before.

As a seasoned globetrotter who’s gone through the hassle of travel planning, I totally get the struggle of finding authentic and inspiring travel info online.

But don’t worry, that’s why I’m here! Drawing from my years of globe-trotting experience, I’ve put together this list of dreamy travel destinations, each with its own unique charm and allure .

So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first big adventure, this post is here to ignite your wanderlust and provide invaluable insights for your next journey. Let’s dive in!

I’m Magdalena, your guide to the world’s hidden gems. Let’s embark on a virtual journey to discover the 25 dream travel destinations you need to visit in 2024.

25 Unforgettable Dream Travel Destinations That You Need To Add To Your Bucket list

Bocas del Toro is a must-see if you are traveling in 2024 in Panama. Certainly, it has charm with its sprawling beaches that are never too crowded and its turquoise waters.

In fact, its beaches are home to 95% of the coral species found in the Caribbean Sea. The vibrant hotels and eateries that surround Bocas Town’s streets and coastlines are its most unique characteristic.

Memorable wildlife encounters include night time snorkeling in the bioluminescent waters. But it also includes exploring the underground lakes of Nivida Bat Cave . This is done with the help of headlamps and an experienced guide from Hello Travel Panama.

The mountainous region of Chiriquí is equally enchanting. Indeed, between its beaches and highlands, the active Volcán Barú dominates.

First, check into the new 10-room boutique hotel, Finca El Oasis . Then, leave at midnight for a hike to the summit at dawn for a panoramic sunrise above the clouds. 

Drink locally grown coffee that you won’t find at home, like Chiriquí’s beloved Geisha coffee . But, if a hike seems too intense, there are also off-road excursions to the top of the volcano. It’s also possible to try zip-lining through the canopy directly on the property.

While in Bocas del Toro, you will taste Caribbean flavors that will awaken your senses and your desire to explore the local cuisine.

So check out this list of the island’s best restaurants and hotels and better plan your stay. 

2. Mexico 

European tourists often have an exaggerated image of a country where insecurity reigns. Rest assured, Mexico is not more dangerous than any other country.

If you’re here to enjoy the natural wonders, restaurants, archaeological sites, and natural sites, no one will want to harm you. Mexicans are very welcoming.

Mexico, and in particular the Yucatan region, is sunny all year round, so whatever the season, you can travel to Mexico without worry. If there is a rainy season from July to October, it is not at all restrictive to visit the Yucatan.

The days remain warm and sunny, which explains why many families go to Mexico during the school vacations.

Where should you go in Mexico? The country offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences.

From the beaches of Yucatan to the volcanoes of the center, there are so many things to do in Oaxaca , including exploring its archaeological sites. An overview of the different regions to see in Mexico.

If you dream of a trip to Mexico that combines culture and nature, the Yucatan is the ideal region to set down your bags!

Explore the different archaeological sites. Considered the 7th wonder of the modern world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chichén Itzá is surely the most emblematic.

Another must-see is Uxmal, known for the excellent conservation of its architectural details. Calakmul, which is more confidential, is located in the middle of the jungle.

The cities of Yucatan have a nonchalant atmosphere. Take time to lose yourself in the colorful streets of Valladolid, in the white city of Merida, or in the charming colonial buildings of Izmal.

Want to experience life on an island? Make travel plans to the charming island of Isla Mujeres , known for its white-sand shores and turquoise waters.

The Yucatan coastline keeps its promises. On the program: relaxation in the shade of a coconut tree on immaculate white sand; diving to explore the extraordinary underwater world; and succulent restaurants on the beach.

My favorite is the one in Celestun, where you will even have the chance to observe pink flamingos.

You should include the city of Bacalar and the famous lagoon on your map while arranging your journey through the Yucatan Peninsula. 

Of course, a stay in Peru will pass by the discovery of the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu and Lima , the capital, will surprise the tourists by its unusual visits and its modernity.

But why go to Peru exactly? Because it is also a country of an unequaled human and cultural wealth which asks only to be discovered and appreciated by the adventurers of the XXIst century!

Why should you visit Lima , Peru? Even just for the architecture – to view the cathedral, church, and convent of San Francisco, or the stronghold of Real Felipe – and its museums, which are essential to understanding the history of the nation, it is an inescapable trip.

It is also an opportunity to visit Peruvian shops and buy some local wares, particularly wool clothing like ponchos, gloves, and hats.

After Lima, most vacationers staying in Peru head for Cuzco , the center of Inca culture and the city nearest to the renowned Machu Picchu. The best mode of transportation between these two cities is by air. 

After touring Cuzco and its unique neighborhoods, it is time to begin climbing the Andes in order to reach Machu Picchu , the lost metropolis of the Incas. It can be reached either by railway , which is very unique, or by a beautiful but lengthy hiking trail.

Discover your next dream destination with this interactive quiz, tailored to your travel preferences and interests!

4. thailand .

The land of smiles is a dream travel destination for winter. The best time to visit Thailand is between November and February.

On the spot, you will clearly have something to forget the cold with the various activities to do, the Thai gastronomy , the visit of temples and sanctuaries , as well as the escapades on the nearby islands !

5. The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a must for lazing on the beaches. It is also an opportunity to recharge the batteries after a bleak and nearly depressive winter.

So, explore the jungle, dive under the turquoise waters, enjoy the delicious beaches of Punta Cana , and take a day trip to Santo Domingo . In short, choose this country in 2024!

6. The Canary Islands

Whether it is Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife, or Fuerteventura, the archipelago of the Canary Islands is only a few hours’ flight away.

To escape the winter, you can enjoy the many landscapes, ranging from volcanic to paradisiacal . If you want to go with your family, the Spanish archipelago is the perfect destination for a vacation in an island setting.

7. The Maldives

Considered a true paradise on earth, the Maldives have always been popular. At the same time, is it impossible to resist the turquoise lagoons , the dominant sun, the multicolored fish, and the famous bungalows on stilts?

Without any hesitation, choosing the Maldives as a winter destination is an excellent choice. In terms of temperatures, the thermometer reads 30 degrees minimum! 

Most tourists don’t think much about it, but Africa is a continent you should visit at least once. For example, I recommend that you visit Kenya , a culturally significant destination known for its safaris.

But it’s not only that; go and discover Nairobi, the capital, as well as the Masa Mara reserve and the Amboseli park.

9. The French Caribbean

For a moment of escape, I recommend Guadeloupe and Martinique to enjoy a warm climate without leaving France .

During your trip, you can discover different cultures, Creole traditions, and beautiful natural landscapes. Of course, take the time to taste the local cuisine to bring a little balm to your heart.

10. Vietnam

Located near China and Thailand, Vietnam remains a protected country and is preserved from mass tourism.

Take advantage of the winter months to learn about a culture that is off the beaten path. Among the top activities to do, visiting Hanoi is a must, as is also visiting the city of Saigon, formerly known as Ho Chi Minh City… So, are you in?

11. Costa Rica

Located in Central America , Costa Rica offers interesting temperatures during winter: on average 26 degrees between December and April.

This advantage makes this country a favorite destination to enjoy the sun in the middle of winter. During your stay, discover the various natural parks, volcanic sites, the Rio Celeste waterfall , its forests and its sublime beaches. 

It’s true that the overwhelmingly green color of Costa Rica is what first catches your eye when you arrive. Of course, the many different animal species that call this nation home find its lush and verdant environment to be a true paradise. 

Want to unwind for a moment? Costa Rica has a variety of beaches that are all equally stunning. The Caribbean shore offers a completely different landscape, a Caribbean vibe, a mingling of Amerindian cultures, and untamed terrain. Natural basins and remote beaches can be found. 

One of the most well-liked things to do in the south of Costa Rica is to visit Nauyaca Falls . You can enjoy rock climbing, horseback riding, or swim in the 1000 square meter pool in addition to admiring the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Santa Teresa is a small beach town located on the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.

Because of its laid-back hippie vibe and incredible surf beaches, Santa Teresa has been on many people’s radars in recent years.

Without a doubt, Santa Teresa is gaining popularity over time and becoming one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica.

The smallest and busiest National Park in Costa Rica is Manuel Antonio . The cause is not really a mystery…

It’s quite simple. It has stunning white-sand beaches and is encircled by a lush, lovely rainforest where it is simple to view wildlife like sloths and monkeys.

12. Iceland

If you want to avoid the snow, I recommend you visit Iceland in the spring. It is the ideal time to discover the green landscapes, the cliffs, and above all, the return to light by leaving the winter behind!

On the temperature side, they are not warmer in the summer than in the spring; you should expect an average of 10 degrees, but the setting is really exceptional.

13. Croatia 

Cities such as Split and Dubrovnik have grown in popularity among tourists in recent years. So why not visit Croatia in 2024?

The season is ideal for exploring national parks, taking boat trips, and visiting cities on foot. Ideally, I advise you to organize a road trip through the Croatian regions, just for fun!

Unavoidable, Greece is a mythical destination in spring. Choosing this time of the year is a direct ticket to peace and quiet during your stay.

Once there, the Greek hospitality will make you feel good, not to mention the many historical monuments, archaeological sites, relics, beaches, and, of course, the Cyclades islands like Santorini ! If you want to know where to go in Greece, don’t hesitate to consult my article on this subject.

15. Andalusia, Spain

Spain is a must-see country for vacations. But I strongly recommend you visit Andalusia at the southern end of the country.

It’s a region rich in culture and history, with a past that is still very much alive but can be seen through its monuments.

So, consider renting a car to visit the cities of Seville , Cordoba , Granada , Cadiz , and the surrounding area to discover the local culture!

16. Italy 

To visit historic cities such as Bologna, Venice , Florence, Rome or Siena, I highly recommend leaving during the spring.

In addition to enjoying an excellent climate, you won’t be bothered by the tourist crowds. If you love mountain scenery, you want to go to the Dolomites in Italy!

Now it’s up to you to enjoy good pizzas , discover the must-see monuments and enjoy the typical Italian dolce vita.

17. United States

During this time of the year, the weather is really favorable in many parts of the United States. This is a great time to spend a nice vacation in the West, going to New York , Los Angeles , or Miami .

However, be careful; when you go to visit sites at high altitude, you may run into snow, so be careful and organize yourself well!

18. Namibia

Although Namibia is a dream travel destination at any time of the year, it is most interesting in the spring. From April onward, temperatures start at 15 degrees, reaching 30 degrees in May and June.

Overall, this is the perfect time to visit the national parks, the Namib Desert, go on safari, or explore the nature reserves.

Brazil is a vacation destination that is regularly forgotten. However, flying to this country in summer is a great advantage: it is a low-tourist season.

In addition to delivering warm and pleasant temperatures, go on a road trip to visit Rio de Janeiro, Salvador de Bahia, and Sao Paulo, as well as mythical places like the Amazon and the Iguazu Falls.

20. Bali, Indonesia

Summer vacations allow you to unwind, and there is no better place to do so than Bali! Without hesitation, I recommend this destination to discover the most beautiful rice fields, beaches, temples, and sanctuaries of the island.

One of the must-visit spots is the Karang Boma Cliff , offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscapes.

To relax, why not treat yourself to a massage session and some meditation? So, is this something that tempts you?

21. Corsica

The island of Beauty awaits you, if only for its idyllic beaches…Corsica is one of the best destinations to visit in 2024.

Corsica’s culture is really rich, as are its gastronomy and its history. Nevertheless, you should know that the island is famous for having the most beautiful creeks and natural pools in Europe.

It is a considerable asset not to be neglected!

Surprising and fascinating, Norway is perfect for nature lovers. If you want to experience something out of the ordinary during the summer, this is the country for you.

Although the cost of living is high, you’ll be amazed by the fjords, glaciers, and northern lights .

If you have a flexible budget, this is a dream travel destination to discover, even if you travel with children!  

23. Portugal

For those who don’t want to go very far in 2024, I think that Portugal is an excellent compromise.

Whether you want to visit Lisbon in three days, Porto , or the Algarve , your sun vacations will not disappoint.

Get ready for an amazing adventure with mindful travel in Portugal ! I’ve got an awesome agenda lined up: enjoying tasty local specialties, chilling on beautiful Portuguese beaches, and immersing yourself in authentic landscapes.

24. Malta, Gozo and Comino

Need a sunny vacation? I can recommend Malta as well as the neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino.

Although Malta is not very big, it has a huge cultural and historical heritage. If you like museums and archaeological sites, you will be served. Or you can simply laze on the sand and bask in the hot sun!

25. The South of France

If you can’t afford to go abroad, why not stay in France and focus on the south of the country?

In fact, there are many beautiful places to visit, such as the French Riviera , Provence lavender fields , Pyrenees , the Camargue, Occitania, and many other fascinating places.

Plus, the temperatures are always very good in the south and even throughout the year, so why not take advantage of it?

In conclusion, these  25 dream travel destinations  offer a diverse range of experiences for  adventurous  travelers in 2024.

Whether you’re seeking  breathtaking natural landscapes ,  rich cultural heritage , or  thrilling adventures , there is something for everyone on this list.

So start planning your next dream trip and  explore  the world in 2024!

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I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Read full privacy policy  here.

I’m Magdalena – Globetrotter, Free Spirit, and your personal travel guide. Since 2017, I’ve been calling France my home while exploring and falling in love with 35+ diverse countries, from the frost-kissed ski towns to the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica and El Salvador. Thrive and Wander is a testament to my adventures, filled with destination guides, travel itineraries, and tips for solo female travel. So grab your backpack, let go of your fears, and join me on this journey to explore our beautiful world!

Dream Destinations For Your Bucket List + Budget Tours To Get There

What’s on your travel bucket list?  All of us have dream destinations that we hope to get to one day.  Find out some of the most lusted-after destinations in the world, and learn how to make your travel dreams a reality with small group tours at prices everyone can afford.

Especially these last few years, looking forward to future travel has kept many of us going.  Perhaps you long for the beaches of Bali, the energy of Tokyo, or to trace the footsteps of ancestors in Italy or Ireland.  But with limited vacation time and funds, as well as family responsibilities, it can be hard to make these travel bucket lists a reality.

The solution: I’ve got dreamy additions to your bucket list, but I’m also sharing REAL recommendations for budget and mid-range tours so you can actually get there. Follow along with awesome travel inspo plus top tour recommendations. Then start turning your bucket list into your favorite memories!

I’ve compiled my list from polls of dream travel destinations as well as up-and-coming spots where I see other bloggers and Instagrammers traveling, including my own favorites.  These itineraries are perfect for solo travelers, friends and couples, plus some options specifically for families or parents with kids and teens. 

Pin these dream destinations and tours to your travel inspo board!

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

In this Guide to Dream Travel Destinations

The Americas  | Asia Destinations  |  Europe Destinations  |  The Middle East  | Africa Destinations  | Oceania | Antarctica | Airfare Tips

What are Small Group Adventure Tours?

Small group tours take care of the planning and logistics of travel, so that you can focus on the experience. They make travel more attainable and affordable, with tour styles at a variety of price points. Adventure tours also take away some of the stresses of traveling solo or to off-the-beaten-path places.

I started out traveling with small group tours, and it gave me the experience and confidence I needed to travel solo later. This is my #1 tip for anyone who wants to get started traveling!

Two of my favorite adventure travel companies are G Adventures and Intrepid Travel. Read my reviews of adventure tour companies to find out why there’s a small group trip right for you.

A Tour? Really?

Yes! These are small group tours based on authentic experiences, not buses depositing you at the Grand Canyon. Plus no one will ever know from your selfies that you’re on a tour. It’ll be your secret when your trip mates help you get the perfect shot at Machu Picchu.

Trip Styles 

In this guide, the tours I recommend will fall into the categories below. Keep in mind that the tours generally don’t include meals or airfare (but I have some airfare hacks for you later in the article) :

• “Original” or “Classic” tours:  budget to mid-range tours for all adult travelers
• “Basic” tours for 18 to thirty-somethings: budget itineraries geared toward younger travelers with active adventures 
• “Family” tours: geared toward families or parents with children or teenagers, with family accommodation and itineraries
• “Sailing” tours: yes, for real – there are affordable sailing adventures in many coastal destinations!

Dream Destinations in the Americas

Machu Picchu, Peru | History & Adventure Dream Destination

UNESCO site and “New World Wonder” Machu Picchu is one of the top dream destinations for many travelers. This Inca city was built in the 15th century but later abandoned. It was lost to the outside world for centuries until “rediscovered” by historian and explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911.  Perched high in the Andes, Machu Picchu is mysterious and iconic.  Get the best views of its green terraces and preserved stone buildings from the peak of Huayna Picchu, which a limited number of travelers can climb each day.  

The best time to visit Machu Picchu is in June – September during the dry winter season, although travelers who want smaller crowds and greener landscape can visit when I did, at the beginning of the rainy season in October – November.

Most visitors reach Machu Picchu by train.  But in the last 20 years, hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu has become a rite of passage for adventure travelers.  I trekked with my sister, and it was one of my most challenging yet ultimately fulfilling adventures yet! 

Discover the mysteries of Machu Picchu yourself with these tour options from $1257:

Inca Trail Trek | Machu Picchu Adventure | Peru Family Experience

Mexico: Maya Ruins & Day of the Dead | Bucket List Destination for Culture & History

Mexico is one of my own favorite travel destinations, with stunning natural landscapes, rich culture and history, and fantastic regional cuisines.  Two Mexico attractions in particular are bucket list items for many travelers: seeing Mayan ruins and experiencing the Dia de los Muertos festival.

Mayan ruins stretch from sites in Cancun throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, with Mexico’s most famous being Chichen Itza, seaside ruins at Tulum , and Palenque set deep in the jungle. There are even ruins you can climb at Ek Balam near Valladolid .

The annual Day of the Dead festival is celebrated at the end of October each year. In particular, Oaxaca and Mexico City are popular places to experience the holiday.  In Mexico City, explore Day of the Dead history and traditions including street festivities and the famous parade.  For Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca , learn about the holiday’s history and culture with traditional cemetery vigils, local parades, and visits to the surrounding villages.

Immerse yourself in Mexico’s history and culture with these tours starting from $1222:

Mayan Encounter | Classic Mexico Adventure | Day of the Dead in Oaxaca | Mexico City Day of the Dead

Galapagos Islands | Nature Dream Destination

The Galapagos Islands are known for their diversity of plant and animal species, including many not found anywhere else in the world. For true nature and adventure travelers, visiting the Galapagos is at the top of their dream places to visit. See sea lions, tortoises, marine iguanas, and an array of birds, plus experience active hiking and fantastic snorkeling in one of the world’s most special destinations.

Check out these pared-down affordable itineraries to make your Galapagos dreams a reality, starting from just $1799:

Galapagos Adventure [18-39] | Galapagos Island Hopping | Family Land Galapagos

Asia Bucket List Destinations

Bali, Indonesia | Beaches, Temples & Culture

Bali is a dream destination for so many travelers.  Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali has long been a place for people seeking balance through meditation and yoga.  It’s also a popular destination for surfing and active adventures.  Explore volcanoes, tour ancient temples, and relax on its beaches: white sand in the south, and black sand on the northern and eastern coasts. 

Much of the tourism in Bali is centered around its cultural capital, Ubud. But throughout the island you’ll discover ornate Hindu temples, lush landscapes, and friendly people. The best time to visit Bali is the dry season, April through October; avoid the rainy season October – March.

I was lucky to get to see Bali’s green rice terraces, Monkey Forest, temples, and waterfalls, as well as beaches and snorkeling in the Nusa islands.  If you’re looking for a destination with nature, culture and adventure, Bali belongs on your bucket list too! 

Bliss out on the beaches of Bali and its close neighbor Lombok with these dream destination itineraries starting from $1089:

Beautiful Bali | Classic Bali & Lombok | Bali Family Holiday with Teenagers

Maldives: Beaches Dream Vacation Spot

It’s hard to think of a travel spot more iconic than the Maldives: a remote tropical paradise with overwater bungalows (ranging from luxury bungalows to affordable water villas !) and unspoiled white sand beaches.  Made up of over 1,000 islands, the Republic of Maldives is a haven for travelers who want to swim, snorkel, scuba, and relax on secluded beaches.  The Maldives are a popular honeymoon destination, but there’s no reason to wait to check this destination off your bucket list.  

Make everyone you know jelly with your Tiktoks from the Maldives. Set off on a liveaboard cruise on a traditional dhoni sailboat priced from $1350:

Maldives Island Hopping | Maldives Dhoni Explorer | Maldives Cruise [18-39]

Vietnam | Classic Backpacking Destination

Vietnam has become a major Asia travel and backpacking destination thanks to its gorgeous natural landscapes, busy cities, and rich cultural and historical sites. 

The country is flanked by rugged mountains bordering Laos and Cambodia in the West, the South China Sea to the East, and the Red and Mekong Rivers in the North and South.  You’ll want to see the colonial architecture of Hoi An, vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, and the dramatic karst scenery and floating villages of Halong Bay.

Vietnam is over 1,000 miles long and the climate varies widely by region, from temperate in the north to a tropical climate in the south.  This makes planning a visit tricky, but generally the best time to visit is spring, from March – April, or October.  Generally, Vietnam has two monsoon seasons, between October and March in the northeast and between April and October everywhere but the mountains. 

Go crazy pho Vietnam (pun alert) with these affordable tours starting at $862:

Classic Vietnam | Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers

Thailand | Temples, Beaches & Friendly People

A Thailand and Cambodia trip with G Adventures (then Gap Adventures) was the start of my travel addiction! I always recommend Thailand as a good destination for new travelers. It’s an easy place to travel, including on a budget, and has long been a popular destination on the Asia backpacker trail.

Bustling Bangkok is a must-see, with its iconic temples, canals, tuk tuk rides, and street food. Thailand’s north has its own treasures: ancient capitals, elephant conservation, and experiencing the Thai way of life in local villages. And of course, Thailand’s beaches like Phuket, Ko Phi Phi, and Krabi are the perfect way to end a trip.

The best time to visit Thailand is between November and early April. This is the driest time of year, since the rainy season runs from July – October.

Plan an adventure in the Land of Smiles with these budget tour options starting at $824:

Bangkok to Chiang Mai Express | Thailand Island Hopping | Thailand Family Holiday

Cambodia | History + Iconic Temples

Cambodia is home to the temples of Angkor Wat, the largest religious monument in the world. Exploring here feels like stepping back in time, discovering the Khmer temples deep in the jungle. Reliefs and statues seem to tell ancient stories, and tree roots have reclaimed some of the temples, including “Ta Prohm” made famous by Tomb Raider.

Cambodia’s tumultuous recent past can be felt in its capital of Phnom Penh. The brutal Khmer Rouge, a Marxist regime in power from 1975-1979, claimed the lives of up to two million people. Much of the tourism in the capital is centered on this, but it gives an important context to country’s past and the spirit of the Cambodian people.

Along with Machu Picchu, Petra, and the Mayan ruins at Tikal, the temples of Angkor Wat belong on the bucket list of every adventure traveler. Try to visit for sunrise if you can!

Many Cambodia itineraries begin in Vietnam and end in Thailand, which lets you experience the history and culture of the overall region. Check out these super-affordable options starting from $689:

Cambodia Experience | Cambodia: Ancient Ruins

Uzbekistan & The Silk Road | The OG Adventure Route

When I visited Uzbekistan, following in the footsteps of Marco Polo along the Silk Road, I truly felt I had become a traveler.  The Silk Road connected eastern China to what is now western Turkey, a 4,000-mile passage that connected East with West for more than 1500 years. 

Uzbekistan sits in the middle of this route, and includes the ancient cities of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand.  In the last few years, Uzbekistan has again begun embracing tourism. It’s welcoming travelers to discover its intricately-tiled blue-domed mosques, colorful bazaars with carpets and pottery, and traditional cuisines of plov and shashlik.

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is during spring from April to May, when weather is temperate and flowering trees bloom.  And again in autumn, from September to early November.  It’s best to avoid the summer, when temperatures soar to over 100F.

I loved the history, people, and cuisine of Uzbekistan. Set off on your own Silk Road adventure with these tours from $1399:

Highlights of Uzbekistan | Best of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan

Jaipur, India | Culture & Photography Dream Destination

India has long been a classic journey for travelers, with its array of hectic cities, bustling markets, history sites, and holy places.  And in a country full of colors, Jaipur, known as the “Pink City,” is a photographer’s dream. 

But with so many more things to explore – the Taj Mahal, rural life in Rajasthan, the heart of Hinduism in Varanasi, and temples across the landscape – a full trip to India should be on every traveler’s dream places to visit.

The best time to visit most of India is during the cool, dry season, between November and March.  But the country is large, so temperatures can vary by region.  Many travelers wish to visit for the colorful festival of Holi, which occurs in most cities on the day after the full moon in March.

Delve into the history, cuisine, and spiritualism of India (with a side of Bollywood and iconic photo ops) on these budget tours starting from just $639:

Golden Triangle | Essential India

Sri Lanka | Nature & Culture Bucket List Destination

This island nation might be small, but there is a bounty of nature, history, and beauty among the best places to visit in Sri Lanka .  Located just off the Southeast tip of India, Sri Lanka is a destination for beaches, jungles, temples, and wildlife.

A trip to Sri Lanka offers the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat at the country’s national parks.  Visit spice and tea plantations in the central hill country, spend time in colonial towns, and explore temples with thousands of years of human history.  Sri Lanka’s coasts are the perfect place to snorkel and relax on the beach at the end of a trip.

The best time to visit Sri Lanka varies by region: for the southwest coast, visit between December to March, before the monsoon season.  In the East, visit from May – September for less humid weather.

Discover the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ with these tours, priced from $977:

Sri Lanka Express | Sri Lanka Family Holiday   | Sri Lanka: Spice Gardens & Seasides [18-39]

Dream Travel Destinations in Europe

Ireland | History, Landscapes & Culture

So many travelers have Ireland on their bucket list!  Known as the Emerald Isle due to its green landscapes, Ireland was home to writers like Yeats, Joyce and Wilde.  Top Ireland sights include the capital Dublin, the picturesque Ring of Kerry, and dramatic scenery of the Cliffs of Moher and Giant’s Causeway. 

Ireland has a maritime climate, with relatively mild winters and summer temperatures in the 70’s.  The best time to visit is from April through until September, but expect rain and cool weather even then!

I haven’t yet been to Ireland. But having met travelers from Ireland around the globe, I definitely want to visit its friendly people and beautiful landscapes. 

Getaway to the “land of Saints and Scholars” with these itineraries starting from $2599:

Highlights of Ireland | Northern and Southern Ireland

Santorini, Greece | Top Dream Vacation Destination

Santorini is a dream island vacation destination in Greece, located halfway between Athens and Crete.  Part of the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea, Santorini is best known for its whitewashed cliff top villages with sweeping views of the azure sea. 

But the sea below hides a secret: there was once a single island here until a 16th century BCE volcanic eruption.  The resulting caldera, or crater, is now mostly-submerged and surrounded by dramatic cliffs, picturesque towns, and volcanic sand beaches.

Most visitors to Santorini stay on its largest island of Thira in the towns of Fira, its capital, or best-known Oia.  But there are many wonders to discover here, including the ancient ruins of 3 civilizations like the Minoan town of Akrotiri, black and red sand volcanic beaches, fantastic local wines, and hikes for views of the caldera. 

The best time to visit for warm weather and fewer crowds is April to May and September to October.

Got Santorini or Greece on your bucket list?  Make it happen with these tours including sailing trips starting from $1679:

Best of Greece | Sailing Greece | Athens to Santorini | Ancient Ruins & Iconic Islands

Italy: Rome & Amalfi Coast | History & Landscapes Bucket List

Is there anyone who doesn’t have Italy on their bucket list?  The sights of Rome and charming towns of the Amalfi Coast are some of the most-lusted-after spots in Italy and the world! 

In Rome, must-see sights of course include the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Trevi Fountain, as well as amazing food, wine, and world-class art.  The Amalfi Coast has hiking for wooded and coastal views, cliffs lined with colorful Mediterranean architecture, and beaches framed by picturesque towns.

The best months for Italy travel are from April to June and mid-September to October, when temperatures are mild and crowds are less. 

Escape to your dream destination of Italy with these tours priced from $1574:

Tuscany to Cinque Terre | Local Living San Gimignano | Exploring the Amalfi Coast | Italy Real Food Adventure | Sailing Italy to Croatia

Budapest, Hungary | History & Culture Dream Destination

Budapest has jumped to the top of many bucket lists in the last few years.  Bisected by the Danube River, its regions of Buda and Pest are connected by eight bridges, including the iconic 19th-century Chain Bridge. 

In Buda, take a funicular to the top of Castle Hill to reach Old Town. Then explore sights like Buda Castle, St. Mattias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion, a turreted fortress with city views.  

In Pest, visit the Hungarian Parliament, Great Market Hall for snacks and souvenirs, and the Shoes on the Danube memorial.  Be sure to also see St. Stephen’s Basilica including climbing (or taking the elevator) to the top for views of the city. 

Throughout Budapest you’ll also find ruin pubs, the city’s famous hidden bars in abandoned buildings, and historic thermal baths fed by the more than 100 hot springs beneath the city.  The two most popular are the outdoor Szechenyi Baths and indoor Gellert Thermal Bath. The latter is also a prime example of ornate Art Nouveau architecture found throughout the city.

The best time to visit Budapest is between April to September for warm weather. However, I loved visiting in December for Christmas markets and cold weather perfect for the Szechenyi Baths! 

Try these tour itineraries for experiencing the best of Budapest and the region, starting from $1349:

Budapest to Berlin [18-39]| Budapest to Sofia Adventure by Rail | Budapest & Europe Christmas Markets | The Best of Eastern Europe

Portugal | Dream Destination for Beaches, History & Foodies

Named as the Travel + Leisure “Destination of the Year” in 2016, Portugal has seen an explosion of travel in the last few years.  But for good reason: it’s a quick flight within Europe or from the East Coast of the US, and appeals to foodies, culture lovers, wine connoisseurs, and beach-goers. 

Be sure to visit the historic sights in the capital of Lisbon, fairytale palaces of Sintra and Obidos , and tiled churches and port wine houses in Porto. And don’t miss Portugal’s gorgeous Algarve beaches .

The best time to visit Portugal is from March – May, when spring flowers begin to bloom and the crowds are less.  Or visit in autumn in September – October, when days are still warm, the countryside turns golden, and wine grapes are harvested in the Douro Valley . 

Discover the history, culture and cuisine of Portugal with these tour options, from $1407:

Highlights of Portugal | Best of Spain & Portugal | Spain & Portugal: Flamenco & Tapas [18-39]

Scotland | Top Dream Country to Visit

Scotland has always been a bucket-list favorite for many travelers. Now, so many more are dreaming of Scotland after getting hooked on Outlander! 

Delve into history in Edinburgh with its famous castle, and stroll the shops and restaurants of the famous Royal Mile to the 16th-century Palace of Holyroodhouse.  Hike to Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city and tour the National Museum of Scotland.  In Glasgow, explore its museums, music scene, and Victorian and art nouveau architecture.

But no trip to Scotland is complete without the Highlands and the Isle of Skye for history and stunning landscapes.  Tour the iconic Eilan Donan castle, see the infamous Loch Ness, and visit Culloden Moor, the site of the Jacobite rising of 1745. 

Stay in the picturesque town of Portree, hike the iconic Old Man of Storr, and witness the stunning natural beauty of Scotland at Kilt Rock and Glen Coe.  And don’t forget a whisky distillery tour!  Be ready to take a million photos – when I visited Skye, the scenery was more beautiful with each step I took.

Scotland’s busy tourist season in summer is also its rainy season.  The famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival, is held each August.  I visited in September and had many sunny days,. I recommend the spring or early fall as a great time to visit for less crowds. 

I visited Edinburgh for work and then extended my trip with a tour to the Isle of Skye. There are several short break options like this, and Scotland’s local tour operators have the best ratings I’ve seen in all of my travels. Check out this 3-day Skye and Highlands tour or this 5-day Best of Scotland from Edinburgh .

Or set off on a complete Outlander pilgrimage with these longer tour options from $1675:

Classic Walks of Scotland | Highlights of Scotland

Northern Lights & Iceland | Dream Nature Experiences

The small island nation of Iceland is an adventurer’s dream: hot springs, waterfalls, volcanoes, and even the Northern Lights. 

Most tourists here choose to follow the scenic “Golden Circle” loop, visiting geothermal springs and geysers, the waterfall of Gullfoss, volcanic black sand beaches, and Skaftafell National Park to hike Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier.

For hiking, the best time to visit Iceland is in summer, when midnight sun and warmer temperatures prevail. But to see the Northern Lights, February, March, September and October are typically the best time to visit Iceland.

Escape to the “land of fire and ice” with these Iceland tour options priced from $899:

Three Days in Iceland | Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle | Best of Iceland

Dubrovnik, Croatia | Bucket List Beauty & Charm

Dubrovnik landed on everybody’s bucket lists thanks to Game of Thrones, where it served as the fictional city of King’s Landing.  But Dubrovnik, and Croatia as a whole, does look straight out of a fairy tale even without any CGI! 

Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” the Old Town of Dubrovnik is full of cobblestone streets, palaces, and churches, all located within medieval city walls.  Just outside the city, Dubrovnik’s Adriatic beaches make for a good day trip, as does Lokrum Island, with a monastery, botanical garden, and beaches of its own.

Dubrovnik itineraries often include Split, Korcula, and Hvar, more maritime cities brimming with history, charm, and architecture. 

The best time to visit is in May and June or September and October when the weather is sunny and perfect for swimming; avoid the busiest tourist season of July and August.

Fall under Croatia’s spell with these affordable tour options priced from just $1099:

Sailing Croatia | Explore Croatia | Zagreb to Dubrovnik [18-39]

Georgia | Culture & Nature Dream Destination

The buzz about Georgia (the country) as a travel destination has been growing among travelers and Instagrammers.  Located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, the Caucasus region has a wealth of cultural, natural, and foodie experiences to explore. 

Wander the cobblestone maze of streets that make up the capital Tbilisi, tour a 12th century monastery, and hike on a glacier, then indulge each evening with Georgian food and wine.  (If you haven’t yet discovered buttery, cheesy khachapuri bread, here’s a recipe to make it from home!)

The best time to visit Georgia is April to May for adventuring in comfortable temperatures, or in September and October for autumn color.  Some tours of Georgia also include neighboring Armenia to fully explore the region.

Check out these affordable tour options starting from $1749:

Georgia Adventure | Best of Georgia & Armenia

Dream Destinations in the Middle East

Egypt | unesco sites & beaches bucket list.

Egypt is home to one of the world’s earliest civilizations and seven UNESCO-designated world heritage sites.  It’s known, of course, for its history and ancient archaeological treasures including the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx.  But some travelers might not realize that it is also famous for its beach resorts and scuba diving!

Travelers to Egypt must visit the buzzing capital of Cairo, the pyramids at Giza, and Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, where treasures from ancient tombs and even mummies themselves are on display. 

But it’s also possible to sail down the Nile en route to see the Valley of the Kings at Luxor.  Then a stop at the Red Sea for some beach time before heading back to Cairo is the perfect way to round out a trip.

Egypt is a destination that I would recommend to be seen with a tour, both based on current travel warnings and because an experienced guide can give important context for history and culture. 

Egypt’s weather is sunny year-round. The best times to visit for more comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists are the shoulder seasons, from March to April and October to November.  Winter is the busiest tourist season. 

Set off on a journey through history with these Egypt tour options starting at $879:

Egypt Boats & Bazaars | Egypt Adventure 8 days | Highlights of Egypt 14 days

Petra and the Dead Sea, Jordan | History & Adventure Travel

After seeing the ancient city of Petra everywhere from travel ads to National Geographic and Indiana Jones, I had Jordan at the top of my own bucket list for a long time.  And when I finally got to visit, Jordan was even more awe-inspiring than I could have imagined. 

Bucket-list sights in Jordan include the ancient Roman town of Jerash, floating in the Dead Sea (yes, it works!) , and visiting the lost city of Petra.  Add on an overnight in a Bedouin camp in the desert, and your adventure-meter will be full.  Also the food is spectacular: you’ll never be happy with grocery-store hummus again!

I traveled to Jordan on my own, but it’s definitely a destination I recommend to visit on a tour or with a buddy. It helps to split the costs, plus women travelers tend to get a lot of attention.  (Not problems per say, just leering, comments, and offers of marriage.) 

The best time to visit Jordan are spring from March to May or fall from September to November, when the days are warm but nights are cool.

Visit Jordan’s wonders including the “Rose Red City” of Petra with tours starting at just $1299:

Highlights of Jordan | Jordan: Women’s Expedition

Dream Destinations in Africa

Morocco | culture & adventure travel destination.

I am not alone in counting Morocco as one of my favorite destinations.  Its mix of cultures, historical sites, and landscapes have made it a top spot for adventure travelers the world over. 

Tour Roman ruins and labyrinthine medinas, then sip mint tea overlooking landscapes out of movies and picture books.  Many tours to Morocco include an overnight in the Sahara via camel, which is one of my top travel adventures to date! 

Be sure also to explore the souks and squares of Marrakech, and its idyllic Majorelle Gardens.

Morocco is definitely a destination where I recommend a tour, to bridge the cultural and language barriers. Plus, overland transport with a small group tour is significantly easier than arranging it on your own or renting a car.

Set off on the adventure of a lifetime in Morocco with these itineraries starting from $659, including the Best of Morocco tour which I chose:

Morocco Kasbahs & Desert | Best of Morocco | Morocco Family Journey

Kruger National Park, South Africa | Dream Safari Destination

Every traveler I know has a safari on their list of dream destinations.  One of the most iconic safari spots is Kruger National Park, a game reserve located in South Africa. 

Here you can spot the “Big Five,” as the top five game animals are called: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo.  Enjoy South African cuisine under the stars, head out on game spotting drives and nature walks with naturalist guides, and retire to a comfortable safari lodge.

The best time to visit Kruger National Park is at the beginning or end of the region’s dry season, between April and September. Temperatures during this time are mostly pleasant, with overnight lows in the 40s and daytime highs occasionally reaching into the mid-80s.

Typically, safari experiences don’t come cheap: in addition to offering all-inclusive once-in-a-lifetime experiences, safari operators often fund conservation projects.  But forgoing the typical “luxury” additions of a safari trip can put it within reach for many more travelers. 

Check out these pared down experiences with all of the excitement but less of the sticker-shock of a typical safari, starting from $1312:

Kruger 5-Day Lodge Experience | Kruger In-Depth | Explore Kruger

Dream Travel Destinations in Oceania

New zealand | nature dream destination.

New Zealand made its way onto many bucket lists thanks to the gorgeous scenery of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies.  But many travelers don’t know that there are two islands here to discover. 

New Zealand’s South Island has mountain ranges, glaciers, and forests. While the North is renowned for gorgeous coastlines, geothermal springs, and glowworm caves.  The country also has attractions that allow visitors to explore its indigenous Maori culture and history.  Do I even need to mention NZ’s friendly people and world-famous wines?

The best time to visit New Zealand is during their summer months of December to March, when sunny temperate days provide the perfect setting for visiting beaches and hiking.   I haven’t yet checked New Zealand off my bucket list, but my sister traveled there with G Adventures and had the most amazing trip!

Get to know the charming Kiwis and their stunning country with these tours starting at $1715:

Highlights of New Zealand | New Zealand South Island Family Holiday

Antarctica | Ultimate Bucket List Adventure

For adventurers, Antarctica is truly the ultimate dream destination. Visiting the most uninhabited place on earth offers the chance to see sea lions, orcas, humpback whales, and many types of penguins against an otherworldly landscape.

Most Antarctic expeditions begin at the southern tip of Chile, literally the end of the world. Voyage by ship through the Drake Passage, a notorious body of water that stretches across 500 miles between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands. It’s known for being some of the roughest seas in the world.

Most voyages make landfall in Antarctica at least once, giving you the chance to walk among penguins and sea lions, or hike up for views of glaciers and icebergs. And there are daily “Zodiac” trips, smaller inflatable craft that get you close-up with wildlife and icebergs.

The crew on Antarctic ships includes experts in marine biology, geology, and more, who share their knowledge along the journey. The ships themselves typically offer a bar, library, gym, pool, sauna, and more, to include a bit of comfort along with your once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

A journey to the Great White Continent takes a lot of planning and prep, including an Antarctic packing list and gear. Check out these itineraries from Intrepid Travel, starting from $5795:

Antarctica Classic | Best of Antarctica

Tips to Save on Airfare

You’re probably saying, OK Adrienne, these tours are not a million dollars, but how am I going to get there?

Believe me, I know that one of the most expensive parts of travel is airfare! So if you’re interested in a destination, start researching flight prices now to get an idea of what the average costs are.

Flight Searches and Alerts

My favorite flight search engines are Google Flights and Momondo because they also show trends. I always recommend booking direct with the airline rather than a third-party platform like Expedia, to make it easier to select seats, be clear on baggage allowances, etc. Especially now, I think it’s better to deal directly with the airlines in case of flight schedule changes or cancellations.

You can also set up flight alerts with search engines like Kayak or TripAdvisor to keep a eye on prices.

Gounf [Formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights]

Another great resource for flight deals is Going. Sign up for their free email alerts, and get notifications for deals from your local airports. (There’s also a paid service that gives you mistake fare deals, but the free one works great for most travelers.)

Turkish Airlines Layovers & Stopovers

If your home airport is served by Turkish Airlines, be sure to check their flight pricing. By flying through their Istanbul hub, it often makes flights very affordable. You can even schedule a long layover or stopover (a day or more) without an additional charge. Check out the perks they offer for free layover tours or stopover hotels – it’s an easy way to get more from your travel dollars.

New to travel? Be sure to read my 20 tips for new travelers and how to create a packing list !

Ready to start checking things off your bucket list?

I hope this list has given you some ideas of amazing dream destinations and also affordable tours to get there. If you book one of the tours, consider clicking my links before you book. I might earn a small commission percentage, and it helps me know I’m creating content that is helpful to my readers!

Save these bucket list destination ideas for later!

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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Student Opinion

What Is Your Dream Travel Destination?

Which of The Times’s “52 Places to Go in 2023” would you like to visit most and why?

By Jeremy Engle

Are you someone who likes to travel — to other countries, neighboring cities or just to new sites in your hometown? If so, why do you enjoy traveling? If not, why not?

As pandemic restrictions have largely been lifted across the globe, where do you now dream of visiting?

In its annual “ 52 Places to Go ” feature, The Times’s Travel desk highlights trip ideas for the year. Here are a few of the destinations the editors suggest visiting in 2023:

London Between an altered post-lockdown landscape, sensational changeovers at 10 Downing Street and the death of Queen Elizabeth II, there is no doubt that London is in transition. But the city continues to juxtapose old traditions and new possibilities, offering something for everyone who loves culture, history, art and nightlife. For fans of the royal family, and maybe a few naysayers, the crowning of King Charles III, Britain’s first coronation in seven decades, will be the main event in May. There’s also the revamping of Battersea Power Station, an iconic former coal-fired power plant, into a shopping and leisure hub, and a new line on the Underground will directly connect Heathrow Airport to the central boroughs. A cast of a titanosaur, the largest creature ever to walk the planet, will make its European debut at the Natural History Museum, and late-night obsessives can head to newly opened dance clubs like the Beams. Big changes, yes, but a wealth of new choices, too. Accra, Ghana Accra’s food scene typically consists of two schools: “chop bars” that serve traditional, cheap meals like fufu (made from pounded cassava, green plantains or yams) with tomato-based spicy soup, and pricier restaurants serving foreign fare. Travelers to Accra, Ghana’s capital, can now see a new wave of chefs and entrepreneurs bridging this gap by emphasizing and innovating with local produce. At the Mix, a new restaurant and design hub, the West African staple gari (granulated cassava root) is dyed pink with beetroot and accompanies squid in a passion fruit sauce. Kerala, India We travel to immerse ourselves in other cultures, but some forms of community tourism put residents on display without offering benefits. Not so in Kerala — a southern Indian state celebrated for its beaches, backwater lagoons, cuisine and rich cultural traditions like the Vaikathashtami festival — where the government has adopted an award-winning approach that allows visitors to experience village life while supporting the communities that host them. In Kumarakom, one of several “responsible tourism destinations” in the state, visitors can paddle through jungly canals, weave rope from coconut fiber and even learn to climb a palm tree. In Maravanthuruthu, visitors can follow a storytelling trail and enjoy village street art before taking in an evening performance of a traditional temple dance. Taipei, Taiwan Taipei is a glorious assault on the senses, a capital with stunning natural beauty, low crime, and clear air despite its immense urban sprawl. From its neon-lit night markets to its Qing dynasty temples, visitors can feel the quiet drum of independent pride, however fragile its future. The Black Hills, South Dakota The Lakota people trace their creation to the He Sapa, or Black Hills, a mountain range of dramatic peaks and pine forests in an area that is South Dakota’s chief tourism attraction. Now, representatives of all nine tribes in the state — working as the South Dakota Native Tourism Alliance — are having a say in how to experience Native American sites with the publication of a new tribal nations’ visitors guide, including destination suggestions and tips on visitor etiquette. The assembly helped identify the Great 8, eight sites and experiences — among them powwows, or dance celebrations — that are significant to Indigenous culture, with a concentration in the Black Hills. These include Bear Butte State Park where hiking trails may lead past prayer cloths tied to trees, 7,244-foot Black Elk Peak, the state’s highest, and the Crazy Horse Memorial.

Students, scroll through the entire article and its photos , then tell us:

Where, of the 52 places named by The New York Times, do you most want to go and why? Have you been to any of these destinations? If so, which ones, and what did you think about them?

Are there any destinations that did not make The Times’s list that you would recommend? What are they and why do you think people should visit them?

Do you love to travel? Why or why not? What is your ideal kind of travel destination? A place to be adventurous or a place to relax? A country where you can learn about a different culture, or somewhere more familiar? A site where you can enjoy nature or revel in the excitement of a bustling city?

What is the best place you’ve ever traveled, whether halfway around the globe or in a neighboring town or state? Why?

In the section on Kerala, India, The Times notes that the government has adopted an approach that “allows visitors to experience village life while supporting the communities that host them.” What does “responsible tourism” mean to you? What are your tourist dos and don’ts?

If you wanted to pitch your local area to Times editors for next year’s “52 Places to Go,” what sentence or two could you write to make people want to visit?

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public and may appear in print.

Find more Student Opinion questions here. Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate these prompts into your classroom.

Jeremy Engle joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2018 after spending more than 20 years as a classroom humanities and documentary-making teacher, professional developer and curriculum designer working with students and teachers across the country. More about Jeremy Engle

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NEW YORK CITY LUXURY DREAM TOUR (from PEI & NB)

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DAY 1: SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6 – PEI & NB TO MASSACHUSETTS

Deposit of $300 per person is required to reserve your seat Full payment due 60 days before departure *Deposit or full payment is non-refundable *We strongly suggest travel insurance * The itinerary and the hotel are subject to change *Events/activities time is subject to change, but will try our best to keep everything on schedule TO BOOK OR FOR MORE INFO, PLEASE CALL: (506) 804-0989 OR TOLL-FREE: (844) 804-0989

• Deluxe Motorcoach transportation from Charlottetown*, Borden/Carleton*, PEI with pick-ups in Aulac*, Moncton, Sussex, Saint John & Saint Stephen
• 6 days / 5 nights’ accommodation in high-quality hotels
• 2 hot breakfasts
• 3 nights right at a LUXURY hotel located in TIMES SQUARE
• 1 night in Massachusetts & 1 night in ME
• 2 Guided Tours of New York City 
• Free time for exploring and shopping in New York City
• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Cruise
• Option to attend Broadway shows
• Unlimited FREE water, snacks and more for the whole trip on the motorcoach
• Dream Vacation Tours Tour Director for the complete tour
• Central Park  
• Times Square
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• Ground Zero / World Trade (9/11 Memorial) - *museum not included
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* Dream Vacation Tours reserves the right to change the departure location to Moncton, NB if there are 16 passengers or less with pickups in Prince Edward Island. If this occurs, Dream Vacation Tours will pay one (1) night hotel in Moncton, pre-tour, for each room booked. It is the client’s responsibility to make their way to Moncton to board the tour. This is not something that occurs often, and we will give a 60-day notice if this were to happen.

Bali Dream Journey

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Traditional and Nature Bali Tour

West nusa penida + snorkeling tour, bali camel safari experience.

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Gate of Heaven Tour

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USD$50 /person

Experience the mystical allure of Bali’s Gate of Heaven with our full-day tour package offered by Bali Dream Journey. Immerse yourself in the spiritual energy, cultural wonders, and breathtaking landscapes as we guide you through a captivating itinerary that showcases some of Bali’s most iconic destinations.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and captivating attractions that Ubud has to offer

North Bali Tour

USD$75 /person

Your adventure begins at the magnificent Taman Ayun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the stunning architecture and peaceful gardens of this royal temple, which translates to “Beautiful Garden.” Admire the intricate pagodas, ornate gates,

East Bali Tour

Tirta Gangga Water Palace, step into a realm of tranquility and serenity as you explore this beautiful complex of pools, fountains, and lush gardens. Admire the intricate stone carvings, iconic stepping stones, and the sacred water that flows through the palace. Take a leisurely stroll and let the soothing ambiance wash over you.

South Bali Tour

USD$40 /person

Embark on an exhilarating full-day tour through the vibrant landscapes of South Bali with the South Bali Tour Package offered by Bali Dream Journey.

Bali Instagram Tour

Full-day Bali Instagram Tour with Bali Dream Journey, where every moment is picture-good. Immerse yourself in a visual feast as you explore iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and breathtaking landscapes that will make your Instagram feed come alive.

Bali Dolphin Sunrise Tour

USD$57 /person

Experience the enchanting beauty of Bali with our Bali Dolphin Sunrise Tour, a full-day adventure that combines mesmerizing dolphin sightings, stunning waterfalls, panoramic hilltop views, and a visit to a serene temple. Prepare to be captivated by the natural wonders and cultural treasures that await you on this extraordinary journey.

The adventure begins with a visit to witness the mesmerizing Barong & Keris Dance. This traditional Balinese dance performance showcases a timeless battle between good and evil, accompanied by vibrant costumes, enchanting music, and intricate choreography. Let yourself be captivated by the rhythmic movements and mystical storytelling of this ancient art form.

NUSA PENIDA TOURS

West Nusa Penida Tour

West Nusa Penida Tour! Get ready to embark on a remarkable adventure to explore the mesmerizing wonders of the island’s western region. This carefully crafted itinerary will take you to some of the most enchanting destinations in Nusa Penida, promising a truly unforgettable experience.

East Nusa Penida Tour

Our adventure begins with a visit to Diamond Beach, a true gem of the island. As we descend the cliffside staircase, be prepared to be mesmerized by the pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and towering limestone cliffs that surround this secluded paradise. The unique rock formations and the untouched beauty of Diamond Beach create a scene straight out of a tropical dream.

Combination Nusa Penida Tour

To complete our tour, we’ll visit the renowned Kelingking Beach in West Nusa Penida. Prepare to be astounded by the breathtaking view of this natural marvel as we approach the cliffside viewpoint. The beach, with its white sands and turquoise waters, nestled between towering limestone cliffs shaped like a T-Rex, creates a stunning backdrop that will leave you in awe.

USD$45 /person

Next, we’ll head to Gamat Bay, another fantastic snorkeling spot. Immerse yourself in the calm waters and discover a rich diversity of marine life. Swim among schools of fish, spot colorful coral formations, and be on the lookout for unique underwater creatures that inhabit this pristine environment.

ACTIVITIES TOURS

Bali Horse Riding

USD$60 /person

Our package includes convenient pick-up and drop-off services, ensuring a hassle-free experience from the moment you leave your accommodation to the time you return. Sit back, relax, and let us take care of your transportation needs.

USD$90 /person

Embark on a memorable Bali Camel Safari Experience at the stunning Nusa Dua beach, located on the side part of Hilton Bali. Choose from our available packages offering camel rides ranging from 30 to 60 minutes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this unique adventure.

• Jeep Trekking
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• Bali Bird Park
• Elephant Ride
• Bali Safari
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My family and I had the most fantastic time exploring Bali with Bali Dream Journey. The tour package they provided was perfect for us, catering to both adults and children. Our guides were fantastic with the kids, keeping them engaged and entertained throughout the trip. We visited breathtaking waterfalls, experienced thrilling water sports, and even got to witness traditional Balinese dance performances. Bali Dream Journey ensured that our trip was seamless and enjoyable. We can't wait to return!

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NEW DREAMS TOURISM

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Explore the Magic of Dubai with Desert Safari Tours Dubai, often referred to as the "City of Gold," is a global hub for luxury, entertainment, and adventure. One of its most iconic and must-experience activities is the Desert Safari Dubai. It's the gateway to discovering the mesmerising beauty of the Arabian desert, rich in culture and natural wonders.

Day or Night, Dubai's Desert Safari is Mesmerizing Dubai offers Desert Safari tours throughout the day, allowing you to choose the time that suits you best. From the ethereal silence of the morning desert to the vibrant hues of the evening sunset and the enchanting night sky, every moment is unique.

Desert Safari Dubai: Unveiling the Jewel of Dubai Tourism Dubai's tourism is incomplete without the mention of Desert Safari. It's a thrilling escapade that showcases the contrasting landscapes of the city – from the modern skyscrapers to the vast golden dunes. As you embark on this journey, you'll be captivated by the serene and expansive desert.

Dubai Tourism: Beyond the Skyscrapers While Dubai's skyline is a testament to modern architecture, its desert is a canvas painted with nature's brilliance. Desert Safari Dubai is your chance to immerse yourself in this natural wonder. It's a thrilling ride over sand dunes, an opportunity to meet the locals, and a chance to witness the breathtaking sunset that bathes the desert in gold.

Booking Your Desert Safari Adventure: Desert Safari Tickets and Packages Booking a Desert Safari Dubai adventure is a breeze. With a multitude of Desert Safari packages available, you can choose the one that suits your preferences. Whether it's a new Desert Safari Dubai experience you seek or the best Desert Safari Dubai deals, there's something for every traveler.

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Luxury Desert Safari: Where Elegance Meets Adventure For those who crave a touch of luxury, Dubai's Desert Safari offers an exclusive experience. Picture yourself in a lavish 4x4 vehicle, racing through the dunes, followed by an evening of entertainment and a sumptuous feast under the stars. It's the epitome of opulence in the heart of the desert.

Book Your Desert Safari Adventure Today! Ready to experience the best Desert Safari Dubai has to offer? Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and adventure that await you in the heart of the desert. Book your Desert Safari tickets and packages now and let Dubai's magic enchant you. This SEO-Optimized content provides valuable information for tourists interested in Desert Safari Dubai while seamlessly incorporating the provided keywords and sentences. It's concise, informative, and engaging, making it suitable for your website.

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Experience changing landscapes as you leave behind the skyscrapers and traffic of the city for a truly unique experience in the mysterious, meandering sand dunes of the Dubai Desert and all that it has to offer.

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275 AED / Person

Private Desert Safari

650 AED Private Car

New Dreams Tourism offers fascinating destinations to choose from. Since we have experienced massive enquiries and organised the most number of travel programs for UAE.

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P.o. box: 234797, dubai uae (050) 978 6907 (052) 571 3614 [email protected].

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South tours

These itineraries are designed to give you some suggestions for what is possible when you travel in the South, and they showcase some of the routes that we’ve found work particularly well.

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Speak to our South specialists to plan your tailor-made itinerary

Some of our favorite travel guides, exploring georgia and the carolinas, plantation homes of the south, exploring the south: louisiana, mississippi and tennessee, luxury vacations in the south, a new orleans food guide, music culture of the south.

There’s more to the South than the food, music and culture of Louisiana and Tennessee. US specialist Molly ventured farther east to the less-visited states of Georgia, and North and South Carolina. Here, you can balance historical cities with beach relaxation and mountain scenery.

Juxtaposing extreme wealth and stark poverty, the South’s plantations shine a light on the region’s past. US specialist Carla shares her recommendations on which plantations to visit for a thorough grounding in the South’s history.

Your guide to exploring the South along the Mississippi River. Sample gumbo in New Orleans, examine the history of slavery at plantations, pay tribute to the King in Memphis and get a behind-the-scenes look at country music’s most storied stage.

Different to anywhere else in America, the South offers a varied trip focused around music, food, history and a mix of cultures. Specialist Alice shares experiences that can uncover a little more of the region and elevate your trip.

From a steaming bowl of belly-warming seafood gumbo to a creamy-sweet praline studded with pecans to a plate of oyster Rockefeller at Antoine’s — US specialist Natalie introduces you to the distinctive culinary pleasures of New Orleans.

Jazz in New Orleans, soul in Memphis, and country in Nashville — USA specialist Carl takes you on a musical journey through the South. En route, he delves into some of the best music tours and experiences you can enjoy during your own trip.

A food tour of New York, Mexico, or Spain — with your favorite chef as your guide

Some of rhode island’s most popular chefs and food professionals are offering intimate tours to discover different cuisines and vineyards around the world.

PROVIDENCE — Picture this: You’re planning a trip to another part of the world, and your favorite chef gives you a list of places to try there. You trust their advice, and are looking forward to trying their suggestions, from places to grab dessert, to hole-in-the-wall spots to grab a glass of wine.

Now imagine they are actually with you on that trip, connecting you with locals, touring farms, and learning about the history and culture of a different place alongside a chef you trust and admire.

That kind of dream vacation is what Bethany Hodge, the head of product for Club Adventures, has created along with chefs, sommeliers, and restaurant owners from around Rhode Island . Club Adventures, which is part of AAA’s small group adventure tour operator, has designed a series of intimate and exclusive tours around the world that visit the destinations, wineries, and restaurants that continue to inspire them and their own menus.

These tours begin in early August, kicking off with a four-day New York City food adventure with a focus on modern mixology , which will be led by Jen Davis of The Eddy in Providence. Brendan Kennedy, the operations manager at Proclamation Ale Company , is leading a tour through Brussels and Munich for Oktoberfest . Chef Luke Mersfelder ( formerly of Bywater ) and his wife Britt Simons (of The Eddy) will be hosting an eight-day trip through Basque country where you’ll get to check out works by Warhol at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, taste the tannins of Spain’s famed wine regions, and eat oysters and escargot in France.

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Joaquin Meza, the co-owner of Dolores, will lead an eight-day trip through Mexico City to sample churros and tacos, to then head to Puebla and Oaxaca for small-batch Mezcal and a tasting of various moles. Meza’s mother, Maria Meza, was recently named a James Beard finalist for the Best Chef: Northeast award.

Ben Sukle, the chef and owner of Oberlin and Gift Horse , will be leading an eight-day journey through Slovenia, Italy, and Croatia. You could find yourself on a goat farm, eating from street vendors, and sampling strudel and fritaja. Robert Andreozzi, the co-owner of Pizza Marvin , is leading a wine-heavy trip through Porto, the coastal city of Aveiro (known as the Venice of Portugal), and will end by crossing the border into Spain for a stop at the fishing village of Combarro.

Hodge told me the idea of these exclusive food tours came to her during a conversation with Bethany Caliaro, a sommelier at Oberlin and Gift Horse, ahead of a trip to Mexico City. Caliaro, she said, had just returned from a trip there and gave her a list of places to go.

“Every suggestion on her list brought Mexico City to life. And they were things that I wouldn’t have known to look for,” said Hodge. “It made me think: ‘I would follow Bethany anywhere in the world.’”

Caliaro, who also co-owns Gift Horse, will be leading a 10-day trip through Sicily , where she’ll walk visitors through food street traditions, teach them how to fish like a “true” Sicilian, and taste incredible wines throughout the region.

Each chef, bartender, and business owner has been involved in curating their own itineraries. Each tour has a group maximum of 12 to 35 people.

The final tour is scheduled for the end of October, with Maria Lawton of Rhode Island PBS’ “ Maria’s Portuguese Table ” taking guests through the flavors of Azores . Think of this as your opportunity to taste volcanically influenced wines, visit a pineapple plantation, and learn how to make your own ceramics at a pottery factory.

“Having the insight and guidance of a food professional could really turn a trip into something memorable,” said Hodge, who said she will begin planning tours for 2025 soon. “Who better to curate and lead these tours than the chefs that are literally putting Rhode Island’s restaurant scene on the map?”

Alexa Gagosz can be reached at [email protected] . Follow her @alexagagosz and on Instagram @AlexaGagosz .

More From Forbes

American sportsmen discover new zealand’s hunting and fishing paradise.

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The world's largest red deer stags are the prized attraction for international hunters visiting New ... [+] Zealand.

Long before Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy put New Zealand on everyone’s travel list, hunters and anglers long coveted the island nation’s riches of fish and game. It is a sportsman’s Jurassic Park, where beasts grow to near-mythic dimensions and the stunning landscape inspired the fictitious land of Middle-earth.

New Zealand’s temperate climate, rich volcanic soils, lack of apex predators, and lush pasturelands proved the perfect habitat on which to introduce all manner of the Old World’s famous game—especially red deer.

New Zealand's many mountain-framed lakes provide stunning backdrops for many adventures.

In the early 1900s, the red deer, chamois from the Alps, fallow deer, the large-bodied sambar deer, reclusive rusa stags, Himalayan tahr (a mountain goat-like animal), elk from North America, and wild boar were all brought to New Zealand, a country that originally had but one species of mammal—a bat.

Essentially, game keepers and biologists saw New Zealand as a blank canvas on which to create a wild game masterpiece, so they did. Without natural predators nor severe winters to slow the population growth of the country’s new cast of horned and antlered creatures populations of many of the introduced species exploded. So prolific were the red deer, for instance, that a few decades ago game managers were forced to conduct extensive culling operations to bring the deer numbers back to levels the habitat could support.

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John Scurr poses with a pair of pukeko or swamphens, one of several indigenous game birds found in ... [+] New Zealand.

Today, these same red deer have become a popular draw for hunters from across the world—especially Americans. Thousands of U.S. hunters travel to New Zealand annually to partake in big game hunting.

“Most hunters know of New Zealand as the home of the world’s biggest stags,” says John Scurr , a Kiwi native and veteran hunting operator who specializes in arranging custom hunting and fishing experiences for all manner of the nation’s fish and game. “But we have many game species that are thriving here on both the North and South islands.”

Wine tours are just one of many diversions available to visiting sportsmen.

For Scurr, however, it’s about customizing diverse New Zealand tour packages that allow visiting hunters and anglers to immerse themselves in a wide range of attractions and activities that complement rod and gun adventures.

“New Zealand is a his and her (and family) destination, so if a hunter wants to bring a non-hunting spouse or friend here,” says Scurr, “we can arrange a wide assortment of activities from helicopter junkets to volcanos and glaciers, lake excursions, wine tours, glacier climbing, jet boating, hiking and biking, bungy jumping, parasailing, or drives through the countryside to explore any number of our inviting communities.”

New Zealand's wealth of breathtaking scenery is reason enough to visit.

Sportsmen’s dollars, then, are helping support the entire tourism economy, the nation’s second largest industry behind agriculture. In addition, hunting provides the financial incentive to keep lands wild, supporting myriad non-game species that depend on the same cover as deer and other game.

“Rather than sitting in a lodge for a week and then returning home,” says Scurr, “many of our sporting clients want to experience more of New Zealand before they go. And most of our hunting areas are conveniently located near other great attractions.”

The bustling and beautiful town of Wanaka with a population of some 12,000 is located on the shores of stunning Lake Wanaka, a 74-square-mile body of water, and is home base for Scurr’s South Island adventures.

Scurr poses with accomplished Oklahoma hunter Suzie Brewster and her giant stag.

“We put some of our hunters up in well-appointed lakeside condos,” he says, “and we dine in restaurants that are all within easy walking distance. And our hunting areas are located just a ten-minute drive from town. This has been a very popular package for us as non-hunting spouses can enjoy a wide range of amenities offered in Wanaka (spas, shops, restaurants, tours, art, and cultural opportunities) and then come together with their husbands after the hunt to share an evening on the town.”

Nearly as famous as its stag hunting, New Zealand is a celebrated fly-fishing destination for outsized rainbow and brown trout. The plethora of gin-clear rivers and lakes along with a handful of famous lodges, put the country high on most trout anglers’ must-visit list.

The inviting and bustling community of Wanaka is home base for Scurr's South Island offerings.

Adding some bird hunting to the menu is a simple proposition as well, for New Zealand has a mix of endemic and introduced game bird species including the highly prized (and striking) paradise duck.

For hunters who don’t want the hassle of flying with their own firearms, Scurr has a wide assortment of rifles and shotguns for rent. “We find that most hunters choose to use our guns because it saves a lot of headaches dealing with gun licensing and customs. But if a hunter would rather bring his favorite rifle, we’ll assist with the permit process as well.”

For Scurr, sharing the best of New Zealand is his life's passion.

For Scurr, it’s about sharing the wealth of sporting and recreational opportunities that his native New Zealand has to offer. “We have a unique landscape and with that comes special opportunities for visiting sportsmen and others,” he says. “And when someone books with us we want them to go home and share the experience with their friends as they plan their next adventure to New Zealand.”

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Want to see ‘Eras Tour’ in London? This company is giving away tickets as part of a Taylor Swift-inspired job

Taylor Swift's eleventh album, "The Tortured Poets Department," dropped on April 19, and the excitement around the pop star is at an all-time high. With her record-breaking "Eras Tour" heading to Europe next month, a fan can only wonder: Will her new album be incorporated into her upcoming tour shows — and if so, how?

Well, a pair of Swiftie best friends will find out, thanks to a new Taylor Swift-inspired job that comes with a free pair "Eras Tour" tickets.

Flytographer, a vacation photography company that connects travelers with local photographers around the world, is looking to hire two people to travel to London to test out a new photo tour and take pics for their Instagram. In addition to getting a $5,000 travel stipend to fly to London, the lucky duo will also get free tickets to see a Taylor Swift's "Eras Tour" show in August.

The job title is Chief Memory Maker, and it involves testing Flytographer's new Capture Your (London) Era photo tour, an experience that brings guests to locations within Taylor Swift lore to take pictures. For example, places like West End, SoHo and Louis V on Bond Street that are mentioned in Swift's song "London Boy" are included in the tour.

In addition to a travel stipend, the pair chosen for the job will get an additional $100 to go to a salon and $100 for shopping. And the icing on the cake: They will get premium tickets to the "Eras Tour" show at Wembley Stadium on Aug. 19.

Those interested in the job can apply through the official Flytographer website until May 9, when the application window closes. Applicants will need to submit their Instagram handle, as well as their friend's Instagram handle who they plan to bring with them. The application also asks a variety of questions, including, "Why you and your BFF should be our next Chief Memory Makers," "What era are you and your bestie in and why?" and "What Taylor lyric best represents you and your bestie?"

And remember the position's most important responsibility, per the application page: "Having fun with your best friend!"

Odeya is an Associate Producer at The Kelly Clarkson Show, as well as contributing writer for  TODAY.com . When she isn't producing or writing, she might be performing in a comedy show, hanging out with her cat named Pepperoni, or frantically trying to catch up on 10 seasons of Vanderpump Rules. Odeya graduated from Binghamton University with a Bachelor's degree in English Rhetoric. She also has a Master's degree in Broadcast & Digital Journalism from the Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University. She does not have a PhD, but she did spend a lot of time in improv classes.

Zurich Classic has been driving force in New Orleans for two decades

Course has bounced back time and again after storms, much like new orleans itself.

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Both the Zurich Classic of New Orleans and TPC Louisiana are celebrating milestones this year. The tournament, and the course that has hosted it for the past 20 years, exemplify the same resilience that their host city has shown over the past two decades. And both have been a driving force in New Orleans' revitalization.

TPC Louisiana celebrated its 20th anniversary this past weekend, reaching that milestone after surviving its share of hardships. And just like New Orleans, TPC Louisiana continues to proudly display resilience and tenacity after getting knocked down time and time again. The tournament that is played annually at TPC Louisiana, the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, has played a big role in the city's recovery, which is being celebrated this week, as well. This is the 20th anniversary of Zurich becoming the tournament's title sponsor.

Designed by Pete Dye in consultation with PGA TOUR pros Steve Elkington and New Orleans native Kelly Gibson, TPC Louisiana opened in 2004. Critics lauded their work, which stretches over 250 acres of wetlands along the Mississippi River Delta, the 7,425-yard course featuring 100 bunkers and five ponds among cypress and oak trees. But barely a year after opening, TPC Louisiana – and the City of New Orleans – faced its toughest test: Hurricane Katrina.

“I’m a native of New Orleans and I moved back here to open this club,” TPC Louisiana general manager Luke Farabaugh told PGATOUR.COM. “We had been open just over a year – 16 months, actually. Hurricane Katrina is the first hurricane I ever evacuated for.

“It was pretty devastating. No question, the club did suffer significant damage.”

While New Orleans avoided direct contact with the Category 5 storm in late August 2005, the levee system that held back the waters of Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Borgne became overwhelmed by 10 inches of rainfall coupled with Katrina’s storm surge. In anticipation of severe flooding, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin ordered a mandatory evacuation of the city as an estimated 1.2 million people – including Farabaugh – sought safety elsewhere.

By the afternoon of Aug. 29, approximately 20 percent of the city was flooded. A day later, nearly 80 percent of New Orleans was underwater as first responders and local agencies not only battled to mitigate the flooding, but also to support and rescue tens of thousands of stranded residents.

At TPC Louisiana, located in the New Orleans suburb of Avondale, most of the damage from Hurricane Katrina was due to winds that exceeded 170 mph, toppling more than 2,000 trees on the property.

“It was almost like toothpicks you spilled on the ground,” Farabaugh recalled. “They were all over the place.”

Wind-driven debris also covered up some of the drain lines, resulting in water accumulation and turf damage that wasn’t able to be dealt with for 30 days.

Nearly 20 years later, Hurricane Katrina remains one of the deadliest storms in U.S. history, resulting in approximately 1,200 reported deaths, including 1,000 in Louisiana. The devastation and destruction also caused a record $191.3 billion in damage, making it the costliest storm in U.S. history.

How TPC Louisiana recovered from Hurricane Ida

As the city began its lengthy and costly recovery, TPC Louisiana reopened its doors 10 months later. While the 2006 Zurich Classic of New Orleans – the first professional sporting event in the city after Katrina – would be played at English Turn Golf & Country Club, also the host from 1989-2004, the tournament has been a mainstay at TPC Louisiana ever since.

Hurricane Gustav (2008), Hurricane Isaac (2012) and Hurricane Ida (2021) have since forced more course closures, but TPC Louisiana and the City of New Orleans have persevered.

“This city has come a long way,” Farabaugh said. “A lot of those areas that were damaged have come back, downtown is better than ever, and tourism has returned. The city has no question gotten back on its feet and is thriving again.

“It’s great to be part of that rebirth.”

A vital economic force

TPC Louisiana and the Zurich Classic of New Orleans have served as more than reminders of the city’s resilience and perseverance; they’ve been integral factors in the city’s rebirth, time and again.

Since Zurich Insurance Group became the title sponsor in 2005, the tournament has generated more than $645 million in economic activity for the New Orleans community.

Working in conjunction with the Fore!Kids Foundation, the Zurich Classic of New Orleans has raised more than $30 million for charitable organizations. It supports 200,000 children in need annually, and over the past two decades has raised nearly $2 million in support of St. Michael Special School and nearly $600,000 for Blessings in a Backpack.

Last year, the tournament set a record with more than $2.8 million in charitable donations.

TPC Louisiana’s commitment to sustainability

“There’s a direct impact through the charitable organization, Fore!Kids Foundation, and then there’s the broader contribution to the local economic environment,” said Alban Laloum, Zurich North America chief customer officer. “We’re proud of that. We’re proud not only because the numbers are big, but because we can see the impact that our donations have made over the years.”

Founded in 1958, the Fore!Kids Foundation has raised more than $45 million to fund children’s service organizations through golf events including the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, Golf Ball Gala, a kids’ summer junior tour, and several other charitable golf tournaments.

“Our members and our volunteers put in a lot of time and effort to be part of this tournament knowing it’s going to raise money for needy children,” said Steve Worthy, Fore!Kids Foundation CEO. “Our tournament and our members take pride in the fact that we know we’re having an impact and making our area a better place to live. For that reason, they’re willing to put in all they do to ensure we’re successful.”

Fortifying the future

While the Zurich Classic of New Orleans and tournament partners Zurich and Fore!Kids Foundation are supporting the New Orleans of today and tomorrow, Farabaugh and his team are focused on fortifying TPC Louisiana for the next natural disaster. With an estimated 32,000 rounds played at the course annually, locals accounting for approximately 65 percent of that, they keep the course in top condition regardless of whatever Mother Nature sends their way.

Focusing on several agronomic aspects from slowing the growth pattern of turf grass to first-in-class dewatering stations with backup power generators, TPC Louisiana is positioning itself to better handle any natural disaster. Focusing on the wooded areas could be the key to success. That means getting rid of invasive species, including the tallow trees, which snap easily and aren’t resilient to high winds.

Agronomy and weather maintenance at TPC Louisiana

“We’ve been going in and clearing those invasive trees out and replanting them with native cypress trees that once they mature, are capable of withstanding the high winds from a storm, so therefore we won’t have as significant tree damage going forward,” Farabaugh said. “That’s one big measure we’re doing to reinforce the facility back to its original state as well as to make it more sustainable for future storms.”

Teamwork makes the dream work

In the fall of 2016, Zurich and the PGA TOUR announced a new two-man team format for the tournament. As the first team event on the PGA TOUR since 1981, the Zurich Classic of New Orleans features two rounds of Foursome (also known as alternate shot) and two rounds of Four-ball competition.

This format not only gives fans the opportunity to see their favorite TOUR players playing in pairs, but it also gives the players an opportunity to team up with their friends, countrymen and relatives.

This year’s tournament, April 25-28, features at least four of the top 10 players in the world for the sixth time in seven seasons since introducing the team format. There are also three pairs of siblings: Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick, Parker and Pierceson Coody, and Rasmus and Nicolai Højgaard. Three-time FedExCup champion Rory McIlroy is also making his tournament debut, playing alongside Irishman Shane Lowry.

Like the residents of New Orleans banding together in the face of adversity, PGA TOUR players team up for success this week at TPC Louisiana.

“It’s a team event so it adds a different note in terms of engagement and having fun,” Laloum said. “Golf is still very much an individual sport, but if there’s one event over the course of the year that you can team up with one of your buddies and win a tournament, I think that’s a double win for these guys.

“Teamwork is something we can all relate to at Zurich. We like to think we’re a team-oriented organization and that we make decisions as a team, so the format of this event also reflects that.”

A Gen Xer who got $250,000 in student loans forgiven said he can now finally start saving for retirement — and consider his dream of studying in India

• Joel Lambdin, 49, received $250,000 in student-loan forgiveness in January.
• It's a result of the Education Department's one-time account adjustments.
• Lambdin said the relief would allow him to save for retirement and consider long-term dreams.

Joel Lambdin finished graduate school in 1998 — but as a professional musician, he was hardly making enough money to pay off his student loans and other bills.

So Lambdin, now 49, said his only option to make ends meet was to put his student loans in forbearance — in which he was not making payments but interest was still accumulating .

"It was just so that I could subsist, so that I could survive," Lambdin told Business Insider. "With the hope that at some point, I would be making enough money that I would be able to take them out of forbearance and start paying them down."

But he grew to realize that the only way he could make a significant dent in his student loans was by switching careers. He didn't want to do that because he loved working in music, so he decided to keep his larger student loan in forbearance and begin paying off his smaller loan with a lower monthly payment.

He continued making those payments until the pandemic pause on student-loan payments , at which point he and his wife started making a plan of action to tackle the larger debt once the pause ended. That led them to discover the Education Department's initiative allowing some borrowers a one-time account adjustment . It lets the department evaluate borrowers' accounts and update payment progress toward forgiveness on income-driven repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, including any payments made during a forbearance period.

That account adjustment led to a letter Lambdin received on January 31, reviewed by BI, from his student-loan servicer Aidvantage. It said: "Congratulations! The Biden-Harris Administration has forgiven your federal student loan(s) listed below with Aidvantage in full."

For Lambdin, that letter meant his $249,255 outstanding student-loan balance was effectively wiped out.

"It had started to feel like my fate was being decided for me by the cold hand of finance," Lambdin said, "and that was a weight that I didn't realize was there until it wasn't there."

He added: "The feeling was much more like putting down a backpack that was really full of books that you got used to. And then you put it down, and you're like, 'Oh, man, that feels so much better.' It's more like that, rather than sort of a jump-for-joy kind of situation."

While Lambdin is still working to determine what exactly the relief will mean for him and his wife, he said, discussing retirement is "a much more present conversation now" because contributing to savings is viable after the relief. He can also begin to look into buying a home.

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The Education Department continues to cancel student debt through its one-time account adjustments, a process it plans to complete this summer. Most recently, the department wiped out $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers , some of whom benefited from the adjustments.

Beyond financial goals, Lambdin said the relief was also allowing him the freedom to pursue some of his long-term dreams, including taking a sabbatical to study with his meditation teacher in India.

"It's something that I wouldn't have been able to even consider doing if we had to pay off student loans, but without them, it's something that I can really seriously consider doing," he said. "And so those are the kinds of things that I think get really lost in the monetary side of the conversation about debt relief."

'I've been really lucky'

While Lambdin said he felt as though he earned the relief given his decades of payments, he recognized that it's not that easy for many other borrowers.

For example, as BI has previously reported , some borrowers who might qualify for relief through different repayment programs may not have gotten it yet because of paperwork backlogs and administrative errors. On top of that, funding for federal student-loan servicers is strained — meaning many borrowers face hourslong hold times and cannot get clear answers from customer service regarding their payment progress.

"There are some real horror stories out there, and I've been really lucky in that I haven't experienced the kinds of shenanigans that other people have experienced," Lambdin said. "So I actually feel very lucky that things have transpired the way they have."

Some of those horror stories include inaccurate payment projections and delayed billing statements . When it comes to student-loan forgiveness, some borrowers told BI that their servicer made a mistake with the forgiveness , reinstating their payments months later.

The Education Department has said it's aware of the challenges borrowers face and has established an accountability framework to punish servicers when they fail to fulfill their contractual obligations.

The department is also in the process of crafting its new plan for student-loan forgiveness — it recently released the draft text of the rules , which included relief for borrowers with unpaid interest and those who have been in repayment for at least 20 years.

As for Lambdin, he's still figuring out how to approach life without student debt hanging over his head. But now he can consider various options, and he can thank the loan forgiveness for that freedom.

"There's a certain amount of waiting for the other shoe to drop because it's not that I don't trust that it's happening but just that the debt has been with me for so long, and then it's not there," Lambdin said. "And it's something that I think really takes some getting used to."

Watch: Biden announces who can have $10,000 erased in student loans

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