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2024 A-List Travel Advisors

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

USA, Canada, & Caribbean

Central america, mexico, & south america, africa & safaris, north africa and the middle east, australia, new zealand, and the south pacific, special interests, travel advisory board.

Want to tour the Louvre after hours? Tag rhinos in Rwanda? Get married on Mykonos? Throw a milestone birthday party on St. Barts? Or take a luxurious cruise to the Arctic? Our travel advisors have you covered. In our 22nd annual A-List, we present a directory of the most influential vacation specialists in the world, vetted by the editors at  Travel + Leisure .

Featured Advisor: Erin Correia

While some advisors work with one or two cruise ships in the Galápagos, Correia maintains strong contacts with all the reputable lines—and travels there often to ensure that ships and hotels meet her expectations. Recently she arranged pottery making with a local artisan, surfing lessons, wildlife viewing, and a cooking class in a private home. She also plans trips to Antarctica.

Lighthouse Travel

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Andavo Travel

Royal Travel & Tours

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Entree Canada & Alaska

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JSB Journeys

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Costa Adventures

Sated Ventures

Knowmad Adventures

Absolute Belize

Journey Mexico

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Extraordinary Journeys

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Latin Excursions

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French Side Travel

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Tours For You

Fuoritinerario

Celebrated Experiences

Joyce Falcone The Italian Concierge

OvationNetwork

IC Bellagio

Madrid & Beyond

French Promise

Turkey At Its Best

Exeter International

Adams & Butler

LeCompte Travel

Royal Travel

Sofia's Travel

Immersa Global

Crafted Ireland

Authentic Explorations

Tasteful Croatian Journeys

Titanium Tours

Louisa White Travel

John Skelton Travels

Jim Strong Travel Services

Condado Travel

JayWay Travel

Travels with Tesa

Iberian Escapes

Wagner Bespoke Travel

Departure Lounge

River Oaks Travel

Hellenic Holidays

ABOUTAsia Travel

Greaves Tours

Asia Desk Ltd

InsideAsia Tours

JapanQuest Journeys

Remote Lands, Inc.

Rothschild Safaris

Legacy Untold Travel

Immersion Journeys

Micato Safaris

InsideJapan Tours

WildChina Travel

Travel Beyond

Explore Inc

Journeysmiths

TravelStore

Roar Africa

Travel Artistry Africa

Red Savannah

Premier Tours Inc.

Africa Endeavours

Anastasia's Africa

Journeys by Design

Mosaic Safaris

Piper & Heath Travel

Volcanoes Safaris

Alluring Africa

The Africa Adventure Company

Wander Africa

Hippo Creek Safaris

Stanley Safaris

Mango African Safaris

AfricanMecca Safaris

Travelous Corp

Global Patina

Cobblestone Private Travel

Stephanie Fisher Travel

Admiral Travel International

Travelicious

The Travel Box International

Tova Wald Redefining Travel Experiences

Touring Israel

Camelback Odyssey Travel

Wells Luxury Travel

Southern Crossings

Down Under Endeavours Inc

Ahipara Travel

Touring Treasures

New Zealand Travel Inc

Frosch Travel

Perolus Yachting

Q Cruise + Travel

Adventure Life Journeys

Goldring Travel

TopFlight Travels

Expedition Trips

Preferred Travel and Company

Betty Maclean Travel, Inc.

Valerie Wilson Travel

Jonathan's Travels/TravelStore

Protravel International

Bear & Bear Travel, Inc.

The Travel Siblings

Natural World Safaris

D.A.Luxury Travel & TravelLustre

International Travel Management

Embark Beyond

Fischer Travel

Culture Traveler

Runway Travel

Bell & Bly Travel

The Society of International Railway Travelers

The Local Foreigner

Mi Familia Internacional

Mini Mouse Counselors

LaVon Private Luxury

Renshaw Travel

Journeys With Purpose

Friend of a Friend Trip Design

Plaza Travel

Huffman Travel

KK Travels Worldwide

JetSet World Travel

DavidTravel

Affluent Luxury Travel

Susan Whitson Travel

Chase Travel

This group, which shares its industry knowledge with the editors of T+L, oversees tens of thousands of individual trips annually. While not all of these 27 experts personally look after clients, many do. The rest have teams who excel at orchestrating memorable adventures

American Express

Culture Traveler, LLC

Condado Travel, Inc

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The Travel Experts Difference

Our network of independent travel advisors is comprised of entrepreneurs who are passionate about travel and are always seeking new ways to craft the best travel experiences for each of their clients. With advisors located across 38 states, rest assured you will find someone that is the perfect match to make your travel dreams become a reality.

Our advisors have access to our unparalleled relationships with the world’s top luxury hotels, tours and cruise lines, who offer upgrades and travel experiences that are only available when you work with one of our “best of the best” in the industry. Whether you are longing to relax on one of the world’s top beaches, or seeking the travel adventure of a lifetime, working with one of Travel Experts’ independent travel advisors will give you the opportunity to experience the world in ways you previously thought were unimaginable.

Your luxury travel advisor will guide you through the exciting planning phase of your next adventure, customizing your travel arrangements around your needs. With precision and attention to every detail, they understand that your time is valuable and ensure that your next vacation is seamlessly orchestrated. While away, you have the peace of mind knowing there is someone at home on-hand to help should any unforeseen event arise. From the very early stages of planning, right through your return home, your Travel Experts luxury travel advisor has your back.

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When you book with one of our expert advisors, you gain access to a world of personalized travel experiences. Plus, you’ll get special perks and upgrades through our partnership with Virtuoso.

Enjoy benefits such as:

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• Tours in over 2,500 locations

Benefits and availability may vary and are subject to change.

Why Using a Travel Specialist Is More Important Than Ever

By CNT Editors

We've long looked to our network of trusted travel specialists to take us to the far corners of the earth. These are the pros who assemble many of the elaborate itineraries that appear in our magazine, and since the dawn of the pandemic, their up-to-the-minute insights on shifting safety protocols have made them even more essential. If you don't rely on them yet, now is the time to start. Which is why the 2021 edition of Condé Nast Traveler 's Top Travel Specialists comprises more members than ever before. Here, we give you all the reasons you need to book a trip with a travel specialist this year and share some of the best experiences our experts have ever put together—not just to show the scope and prowess of their work, but also to remind you of all the adventures ahead after a long year of staying close to home.

For the full list of Condé Nast Traveler's Top Travel Specialists, please visit cntraveler.com/travel-specialists .

All the reasons you should use a travel specialist—now more than ever

1. They make things work, no matter what “We keep our clients happy by helping them move or defer bookings without incurring cancellation fees while ensuring that our service providers—the camps, lodges, and hotels—don't lose bookings so that they can keep their heads above water.” — Anja Naude , Go2Africa

2. You trust someone to safeguard your financial future—why not your travel future? “Our role is becoming similar to a financial planner in that we are part of the client's team of advisers for their long-term plans. I have personally been referred by many financial planners and wealth advisers who understand the importance of a future travel portfolio or plan in retirement.” — Estee Gubbay , Luxurist Travel

3. Because you don't know everything “It's almost impossible to ask all the right questions. My job is to make sure the client understands how things will be different and to help them break through their assumptions about what they'll encounter so they have a smooth trip. A travel specialist can get things done that you don't even know need to be done.” — Elaine Baran , Esprit Travel and Tours

4. Travel specialists don't take no for an answer “Through sheer tenacity, I was able to get a client refunded over $18,000 from a tour operator who was not giving refunds.” — Alyse Cori , Travelwize

5. They make you a better traveler “ COVID-19 will pass, but now we're much more mindful of how we travel and can use this as an opportunity to use travel for good, rather than be reckless consumers.” — James Jayasundera , Ampersand Travel

6. Travel specialists have the best tools at their disposal “We know about health and safety protocols for each destination. Our tourism boards and partners have been in constant contact with updates, changes in safety regulations, and reassurance of care for our clients. Because we have ongoing personal relationships with our tourism partners, we can inspire our clients to explore the world again with confidence.” — Adrienne Sasson , Rubinsohn Travel

7. Because travel looks entirely different now “I expect there will be a growing interest in philanthropy and that vacations are likely to get longer as people want to enjoy slower travel—more time in less places. We're able to tap our contacts to help parents navigate working and schooling remotely.” — Melissa Matthews , Red Savannah

Our specialists on some of the most impressive trips they've ever planned

Sean Nelson of Oman Expeditions can plan camel treks through the desert.

“The Arabian wilderness, which is largely pristine and remote, requires a level of particular expertise. It's really a privilege to gain such access to an unspoiled landscape and the people who live there. That being said, we always try to enthrall and surprise. The largest sand dune in the world was discovered in southern Oman, and we were asked to track it down for a client. Our travelers tend to be adventurers who are conscious of the importance of low-impact travel. In this case, we ran a private expedition on a mind-blowing trail through the Empty Quarter desert and set up a comfortable camp with a private chef for his group at the bottom of the dune. It was a magical journey. It just so happened that, on this same trip, members of our team were reunited with camel-herding Bedouin family members they hadn't seen in years.” — Sean Nelson , Oman Expeditions

Sam Highley of All Road North plans trips that bring attention to Louisiana's disappearing wetlands

“Our mission is to connect travelers with people and places that change how they see the world. Clients of ours who were spending time in Louisiana had a completely immersive adventure: After breakfast at a great hotel in New Orleans, we took them to the skies in a De Havilland Beaver floatplane to fly south over the deep delta and outlying communities of Plaquemines Parish. This habitat is disappearing at an alarming rate, and from the air you can really see the challenges, as well as the efforts being made to conserve one of the largest alluvial floodplains in the world. They landed on the banks of the Mississippi and had lunch in a restored 1880s church. On the return flight, they dropped down in the maze-like bayou to the west of New Orleans and transferred to an airboat for a ride through the swampy marshland filled with wildlife.” — Sam Highley , All Roads North

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

“Several weeks before I was to escort a group of 22 to Italy, a tour operator called to say that what I had previously confirmed—an after-hours visit to the Vatican and Sistine Chapel with a private guide—was now unavailable. Refusing to accept the news, I picked up the phone and tried some of my contacts on the ground in Italy until I found one who was able to pull off the impossible. And so we arrived at the Vatican one evening and began our private tour. When we reached the Sistine Chapel, a small and humbly dressed man met us at the locked door. A large ring of dangling keys hung from his belt. He knew exactly which one would unlock the door to the sacred chapel...and in we went.” — Lynn Tyger , Frosch Travel

Lynn Tiger of Frosch Travel gets clients after-hours access to Vatican City.

“One of my clients joined zebra researchers as they did a game count flying over the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana. The photos he took from that Cessna 206 with the doors off were pretty spectacular.” — Dan Achber , Trufflepig Travel

“We pulled off a helicopter safari deep into the main Himalayan range in search of the elusive snow leopard. We capped it off with a night's stay alongside monks in a remote monastery.” — Phil Bowen , Guides of Bhutan

“I was working with first-time clients on a family trip to Disney World , and from the outset we established that this was absolutely not about ticking off boxes or cramming in all the rides. I knew that they had pursued their Professional Association of Diving Instructors certification just before this trip, so I set the father and son up with private access to scuba diving in Epcot's 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium in the Living Seas Pavilion. It's filled with more than 6,000 sea creatures and has perfect visibility. Early the next morning, they set off with a photographer on a private Wild Africa Trek safari at Animal Kingdom . They fed hippos and crossed an elevated rope bridge that hovered over alligators and crocodiles and drove through the savannah where lions lounged on warm rocks and elephants gathered in herds. This trip went well beyond the typical Disney World playbook.” — Phyllis Polaner , Smartflyer

“We sent a drone up in Raa Atoll in the Maldives to look for manta rays. When we found one, we summoned our client from his villa onto an awaiting boat so he could snorkel alongside them.” — Lindsey Wallace , Linara Travel

Meg Austin of Meg2book arranges trips that include diving and sailing in Antarctica..

“For a 50th birthday trip I arranged diving under the ice in Antarctica, alongside leopard seals, and a private sail through the Drake Passage. I also scored permits to Palmer Station, one of the U.S. research centers in Antarctica. I knew I needed a vessel that could navigate the ice, which moves. No one would give me a ship. Finally, I found one, in Russia, so I scheduled conference calls in the middle of the night. I'll never forget the chuckle I got from the Russian owner of the ship when I said we won't take no for an answer. And we did it. We got it.” — Meg Austin , Meg2book

“When my client said she wanted a truly authentic experience that didn't feel produced or refined for the sake of tourism, I suggested Ethiopia. She visited the secluded Omo Valley, an ancient land where tribes are untouched by modern life. This is a raw, genuine, and deeply transformational encounter. From there she took a helicopter up to the highly remote Danakil Depression. It's the hottest, least hospitable place on earth, where lava lakes and neon-hued hydrothermal fields create a tapestry against the shimmering salt pans. It's like landing on Mars. To say few people on the planet will ever set foot there is an understatement.” — Teresa Sullivan , Mango African Safaris

Erica Gragg of Escape Artists Travel once planned a yoga class inside Istanbul's Basilica Cistern.

“This is something that could never be duplicated, but I once arranged a yoga class for 20 in the underground Basilica Cistern of Istanbul .” — Erica Gragg , Escape Artists Travel

“A gentleman contacted me to say that he'd been thinking about finally returning to Vietnam. As an American soldier he was based somewhere near the demilitarized zone in central Vietnam, and he had made friends with the local families in the village near where he was stationed. He wanted to find one family in particular, to see them and make peace in his heart with all that had happened. He said that he didn't expect I'd be able to find them. Still, I asked him to tell me what he could remember. He described a station, past the main road and down a hill. There was a small river by the village and a family with two boys and a girl. It wasn't much to go on, but I shared this with my Vietnam partner. ‘Is there any possibility we can find them?’ I asked. My Vietnam partner said it was worth trying. So he rented a motorbike, then a boat, and went out to the general region to ask around and see what he could find. It took two days of scouting, but sure enough, we found the family. When my client returned from his trip, he said he found a peace he never thought he'd be able to achieve before he passed.” — April Cole , Kaanect

Lesley Egbert of Live Longitude Travel can plan a Costa Rica trip that includes rappelling and feeding sloths.

“I planned a trip to Costa Rica for a father and his teenage son who had some physical disabilities and was mostly blind. They wanted to do this trip, and all the adventure activities they possibly could, before his condition worsened. Because the son could feel and hear better than he could see, I arranged white water rafting on a low rapid class, tandem zip lining, tandem waterfall rappelling, and ATV riding. They got to go into the animal sanctuary with a guide to feed a sloth and handle and feed the toucan. I put them at hotels where they would get the star treatment, and because I set them up with a private guide and driver for the duration of the trip, the father got to feel like he was on an actual vacation. I think about this trip a lot, because our job is so much more than just planning travel. We create these magical moments and memories that will last a lifetime.” — Lesley Egbert , Live Longitude Travel

“For our client's 40th birthday, we helicoptered six couples from Reykjavik directly to a glacier in Iceland's wild interior. We set up a bespoke camp with six heated tents, a private chef, an astronomer, and a DJ. They were lucky enough to party the night away under the northern lights. To clear the cobwebs the next day we arranged for the more hardy members of the group to swim between two tectonic plates in the crystal clear waters of the Silfra fissure. We then deconstructed the entire camp and left the glacier without a trace of anyone having been there.” — Mark Allvey , Untold Story Travel

Tom Marchant of Black Tomato gets clients access to sites across Egypt during a cruise.

“We created an epic itinerary for a family cruising the Nile in a private dahabeah to Egypt , Jordan, and Oman. We pulled everyone out of bed at 4:30 a.m. and transferred them to the Giza Plateau to experience the Pyramids before they opened to the public. We even tapped a photographer to capture the family as the sun rose in front of the Pyramids and the Sphinx. They went on a private tour of the Grand Egyptian Museum with archaeologists and an Egyptologist, and had an after-hours tour of the Valley of the Kings where they accessed King Tutankhamen's tomb. It's hard to overstate the sheer magnificence of sailing in a glorious dahabeah. It's really the trip of a lifetime.” — Tom Marchant , Black Tomato

The small victories they pulled off in 2020

“In a year where very few were able to travel, my guests were among the first Americans to travel to Kenya after the lockdown in August. They had an amazing time and really helped others feel more confident about traveling.” — Elizabeth Loftus , Alluring Africa

“Our client decided to go to the Serengeti for the wildebeest migration. Because he was arriving in just two weeks, we knew exactly where the animals would be, and he experienced it all with no one else around.” — Elizabeth Gordon , Extraordinary Journeys

“I pulled off a 50-person retreat in the Dominican Republic—with two weeks' notice. People came from around the world, and everyone made it. It was an amazing way to end the year.” — Dawn Oliver , Well Xplored

This article appeared in the April 2021 issue of Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to the magazine here .

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From Booking Safaris to Planning Global Vacations, Here Are the 10 Best Travel Specialists

After a year off-grid, our winning specialists are providing customized experiences from jet travel to road trips., the editors, the editors's most recent stories.

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Travel specialists have never been more essential than they are right now, with their invaluable ability to pivot, re-book and offer advice. We picked 10 standouts in the luxury field from across the world, a directory of those who embody that above-and-beyond spirit essential in the past year.

Christoper Sitwell, Cazenove + Loyd

Wilmot-Sitwell has been working in travel for more than three decades. The co-owner of a 16-person London-based agency specializes in long-haul luxury, often to far-flung sites in rural Africa and Asia. The team there spent much of 2020 canceling or postponing trips—most recently, unpicking rescheduled itineraries to the Tokyo Olympics when a ban on foreign spectators was announced.

The firm anticipated today’s conscious-travel concerns from the outset, always focusing on owner-run and locally staffed independent operations, such as preservation outfit Campfire in Zimbabwe. Cazenove + Loyd also offsets the entire carbon cost of its research recces via a partnership with CommuniTree , a 12-square-mile tropical reforestation project in Nicaragua. Clients can easily opt into this, too; anyone whose itinerary swoops through the country can visit the project and personally plant the trees.

Learn More: Here

Tanya Dalton, Managing Director UK, Greaves

Dalton leads the UK office of this India specialist outfitter, which was founded by her Mumbai-born grandfather in 1978 and later run by her mother. With generations’ worth of in-depth experience and exclusive connections at her fingertips, she arranges custom trips as luxe as they are immersive. Depending on their interests, travelers may find themselves granted entrée to private palaces, sacred religious sites and landmarked government buildings; meeting with celebrated curators, authors, artisans, jewelers, chefs or astrologers; or exploring desert wilds while staying at plush mobile camps.

Dalton’s team—45 in Delhi and Mumbai, and 15 in the UK—helped extract some 40 clients from India at the start of the pandemic, as borders closed. Now she’s helping guests plan their return. On her radar currently are safaris to spot India’s rising tiger population, top-end hotel openings in Rajasthan and a new single-suite wooden boat that’s perfect for privately cruising the Ganges, Bhagirathi and Hooghly Rivers.

Jules Maury, Scott Dunn Private

Maury runs this offshoot of the UK-based travel firm, focused entirely on bespoke itineraries. Much of her work during the pandemic involved extended stays for home-schooling families who were looking to live and work in a new locale, whether spending two and a half months at Gili Lankanfushi in the Maldives or a month in residence at Antigua’s Jumby Bay. Another guest commandeered the five-room Sheldon Chalet in Denali National Park, an ultra-secluded property accessible only by a 45-minute helicopter ride.

The SDP team follows multiple pro-social protocols when it travels and encourages clients to follow suit, including the Pack for a Purpose program, in which visitors pack requested supplies in their luggage for distribution at the destination. It’s laser-focused on ethical practices, too. Animal welfare is a priority, so providers that offer bullfighting or elephant riding are not used, and there’s a pledge that 90 percent of all operators will not provide single-use plastics to guests by the end of 2023.

Deborah Calmeyer, Roar Africa

The Zimbabwe-born Calmeyer has carved out a discrete niche as the ultimate elite safari planner, with the ability to pull off near-impossible requests, even during the pandemic. Rwanda’s government requires a negative PCR Covid-19 test for visitors, but offers only the throat-swab version at Kigali airport—a problem for one Roar Africa client, desperate to go gorilla-trekking but phobic about anything touching his throat. Calmeyer set up a protocol change, arranging for a nose swab to be administered instead.

She has offices in Nairobi, Johannesburg and Cape Town, with the HQ in New York, and Roar Africa continued to pay drivers, freelance guides and its staff even during lockdown, as governmental support in situ was scant. Roar Africa supports several social programs, including an all-women anti-poaching academy in Kenya, which has so far graduated almost 30 fully trained rangers, and underwrites a scholarship at a college of tourism in South Africa that trains women to work at local hotels and lodges.

Catherine Heald, Remote Lands

Remote Lands’ expertise centers entirely on planning ultra-luxury trips for Americans to Asia, with offices in New York and Bangkok, plus country managers in every locale.

Heald and business partner Jay Tindall try to ensure a positive impression both for their guests and by them, encouraging clients, for example, to fund the digging of a water well for a local family whenever Siem Reap in Cambodia forms part of the itinerary. Conscious of the higher carbon footprint of itineraries that span the continent, the pair deliberately minimize the number of flights, private or commercial.

Last year, a Texas couple who were planning to go solo to Asia to celebrate both his 70th birthday and their 40th wedding anniversary had to postpone, and instead Heald helped them turn their three-week, four-country trip into a reunion with their grandchildren, whom they plan to take along this November.

Beks Ndlovu, Founder of African Bush Camps

Ndlovu has maintained momentum, despite the safari industry’s devastating year. The operator and hotelier kept his entire 600-person staff employed while also unveiling Khwai Leadwood, a new high-design lodge in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. It’s the latest in his eco-conscious properties; he has rolled out 16 of them in 15 years across three countries, a remarkable achievement. Each has a light footprint, via solar farms and water recycling, while also offering direct support to surrounding communities via the company’s ABC Foundation.

Even amid the logistical and medical constraints of the past year, Ndlovu seamlessly pulled off a recent journey for 14 people to Zimbabwe via private plane. “There was a lot of juggling, but it was well worth it,” says Ndlovu, who advocates for guests to spend their tourism dollars with brands that preserve wilderness areas and empower minorities and locals. “We continue to make the effort in identifying key talent that we can support and help rise to the surface.”

Cedric Reversade, Unique Properties & Events

Luxury travel was already tilting toward villa rentals before the pandemic made the idea of privacy, and self-containment, even more appealing. The London- and Paris-based Reversade and business partner Koskas offer discreet access to the world’s best rental homes in hot spots like Saint-Tropez, Ibiza and Capri while also acting as a travel concierge.

Take the California client who had bought a piano nobile on the Grand Canal in Venice, just before the first lockdown—and for whom they managed to secure a visa even when borders were shut. They also arranged excursions in the city, like a day on Burano with the glassblowers and a night visit to San Marco. Or the polo-loving English client who ditched her Chelsea townhouse for a seafront estate in Ibiza they’d wrangled on her behalf as lockdowns loomed; she then took trips around Spain, including lunching with a retired rejoneador from whom she bought two horses to ride at her country estate.

Cari Gray, Gray & Co.

Based in Santa Monica, Calif., Canadian expat Gray runs a lean team of about 10 with a particular expertise in active luxury. Take the trip to Argentina and Uruguay which shuttled her guests between cycling spots by private jet. It was due to start just as Argentina shuttered its borders last March, so Gray’s team pivoted, re-booking the group on a similar itinerary in California within 24 hours.

She’s determined that the lavish sums spent by clients truly uplift every destination, especially in developing areas. One pair of travelers sponsored GPS collars on a research project for rescued elephants at a local animal reserve in Namibia and witnessed the process firsthand. And an always recommended pit stop in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco is one of the late Eve Branson’s projects, which employs local women making crafts. It isn’t all do-gooding, though: Gray is renowned for arranging Michelin-caliber chefs to cater alfresco at the end of a day’s hiking.

James Jayasundera, Ampersand Travel

Sri Lanka is one of the rare destinations in Asia that have managed to create a program that allows visitors to experience the country during the pandemic, and no one is a better expert to help navigate an itinerary in that new normal than Rome-raised Jayasundera and his five-person, almost two-decade-old firm. Visitors can stay in designated hotels, he explains, and even go sightseeing, as long as they remain in “bio bubbles” to protect the local populace from imported infection.

Jayasundera started early, noting the preferences of each of his 12-strong family as they traveled constantly in his childhood, and has made such attention to detail a hallmark of his commercial operation. Inclusivity is a longtime passion, with a strong presence in the LGBTQ community among both staff and clients, and efforts to use female guides where possible to offset challenges around equality.

Mark Duguid, Carrier

The 60-person, Manchester-based Carrier plans less than 5,000 trips per year, allowing it to retain a reputation for flexibility. It’s willing to change itineraries within hours of departure and never charging amending fees. Duguid and his team were well placed, then, for the challenges of last year: See the couple from the UK who seized the chance to travel when permitted during a break in lockdowns, heading impromptu to the Maldives as an add-on to a last-minute visit to Dubai. Carrier recognized the appeal of the outdoors for travelers in the last year, too, and created an exclusive trip to Octola in Finland’s Arctic Circle, a five-star private wilderness reserve where local guides hosted open-fire lunches and ran excursions on husky sleds and snowmobiles.

Duguid reports a surge in so-called revenge spending, noting that the average booking value for 2021 has risen 90 percent year over year, with clients indulging in once-in-a-lifetime trips after lockdown restrictions loosen.

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What is ExpertFlyer?

Finding availability for frequent flyer awards and upgrades, flight availability, flight schedules, flight status, flight details, seat map and seat alerts, fare and travel information, how much does expertflyer cost, is expertflyer worth it.

Savvy frequent flyers know that having an arsenal of tools at their disposal when planning travel or while on the road is key to a stress-free experience. ExpertFlyer is a website that offers an array of tools and information that can help travel run smoothly, from finding available award seats to flight tracking and seat maps.

Here’s an overview of what you can expect when using ExpertFlyer and what’s available to those who purchase the full premium access version.

ExpertFlyer is a website with free, paid and premium paid subscriptions that allows travelers to search for frequent flyer award and upgrade space, determine how full flights are, track flight status and delays, review seat maps, and check visa and travel requirements for various destinations.

It can also help travelers to:

Check flight status, timetables and on-time information.

Review seat maps for all types of aircraft.

Create and save alerts for specific flights, seats, schedules or aircraft changes.

Save search queries for future use.

The site relies on global distribution systems (these are what travel advisors, websites like Google Flights and Kayak and airline reservations systems use) to provide data — although some airlines block ExpertFlyer from accessing it.

» Learn more: Don't just redeem miles — redeem them wisely. Here's how

While there are a host of other online resources (paid and free) , including point.me , that you can use to search for award space, ExpertFlyer is a solid option. This is especially true since many airline websites do not share full availability for partner carriers.

While ExpertFlyer doesn’t have access to every airline’s award space, it does show availability for awards and upgrades made available by that airline’s own award program. These same awards are not always made available to partner programs, but it is helpful to know in case you want to transfer points from other credit card or hotel loyalty programs.

Many elite status members receive upgrade certificates they can use, and while some airlines list upgrade availability on their website, ExpertFlyer can be used for those that don’t.

Currently, ExpertFlyer provides access to the following airlines for award and/or upgrade space. Note that some of these airlines display award space for one cabin only, like economy class.

Aegean Airlines.

Aer Lingus.

Air Canada.

Air Europa.

Air France.

Air Mauritius.

Air New Zealand.

Air Serbia.

Air Seychelles.

Air Tahiti Nui.

Alaska Airlines.

American Airlines.

British Airways.

Canadian North.

China Southern Airlines.

CSA Czech Airlines.

Hainan Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines.

JetBlue Airways.

Kenya Airways.

Korean Air.

Kuwait Airways.

Philippine Airlines.

Shanghai Airlines.

Turkish Airlines.

Xiamen Air.

How to search for award and upgrade availability on ExpertFlyer

Using the search engine is simple. Select the airline you want to search, your dates of travel and departure and destination airports. The drop down menu will show you the availability that the website can access for that carrier.

The results show availability for each selected category, with the ability to check multiple flight and date options. Armed with this information, you can then contact the airline directly to make an award booking or try to redeem miles online.

In the above example on a search for a KLM flight from New York-John F. Kennedy to Amsterdam, you can use Delta SkyMiles or Air France/KLM FlyingBlue points to book a business or economy award seat on these flights. You could also use a Delta Global Upgrade certificate on the first two options.

If the search comes up with no results, you can click the exclamation point icon to set an alert to notify you if space becomes available. Just remember that KLM (like other airlines) may make certain award space available to its members, but not to partner carriers. So you’ll want to check the frequent flyer program’s website to determine the exact cost in miles.

Understanding the nuances of each fare class code can be helpful, but often, clicking the small question mark symbol next to a code (like in the KLM example above) will help explain what that availability means.

If you want more details, there’s a fare class guide for many airlines on ExpertFlyer. The below example shows the class codes for different American Airlines fares. Other reference guides available on ExpertFlyer include codes for airports, airlines, meals and aircraft equipment.

If you’re making a connection, you’ll want to consider how you search. Looking segment by segment may not reveal the same award or upgrade availability as searching from origin to destination point.

Each airline is different in this practice, which is referred to as “married segments.” For example, an award flight may be available from New York to Amsterdam and from Amsterdam to Madrid, but not from New York to Madrid (even on the same airlines).

» Learn more: How to shop for flights

If you want to see how full your flight is, the airline’s own seat map isn’t always a reliable resource. This is because not everyone selects seats in advance or wants to pay for one. Using ExpertFlyer can tell you if the flight is full or still has seats for sale.

You simply enter the flight information you are searching for (departure and arrival city plus flight date). The results will pull up all the flights on all airlines that appear in ExpertFlyer’s database, like the example below.

There are numerous fare buckets for each flight representing different fares and restrictions. If you see a zero after a fare type, this means it’s sold out. In the above example, a search for flights from New York-John F. Kennedy to Amsterdam shows the different fares for sale. Most fares are still available (translation: these flights are not completely full).

In the case of the last flight above (Delta 48), there are only four seats left in business class for sale (J refers to full-fare business class). If you see zeros across the board, the flight is full. It may even be oversold, and if you want to try and volunteer your seat for compensation , get to the gate early. You may get rewarded for changing to another flight.

This information can also be helpful if you have a delayed or canceled flight and want to search for availability on an alternative flight. Checking this information in real time can help immensely, especially if there are only a few seats left up for grabs.

If you’re looking to see which flights are available between a given city pair, from a particular airport or to a particular airport on any given day, ExpertFlyer can provide this information. You can also see how many flights operate between two city pairs on any day.

Below is an example of the flights departing Piedmont Triad airport in North Carolina on the morning of Oct. 21 within the first hour of the day. This information can help you determine which flight options are available.

It can also be helpful to see if a particular airline flies to your destination and if you can use miles on your preferred carrier.

To narrow the search results, you can filter to display only the airlines you want (and also leave out codeshare flights).

» Learn more: How to choose which airline to be loyal to

If you’re curious about the flight status of your trip, ExpertFlyer can provide timely updates. For example, if there’s a delay , you can often find information about the reason for the delay (not all airlines are transparent about this information). The site also gives estimated departure times.

In the above example, a flight from Chicago-O’Hare to Eagle Vail airport in Colorado was delayed just over two hours due to aircraft maintenance. In the “Comments” section, you can see the plane left the gate at 12:11 p.m. (out), took off at 12:22 p.m. (off) and arrived at 1:51 p.m. (in).

This level of detail can be very helpful if gate agents aren’t forthcoming with information or you’re picking up someone from the airport.

Another helpful benefit is seeing real-time TSA security checkpoint times for the departure airport. The example below shares real-time checkpoint information for Atlanta airport.

» Learn more: How to avoid flight delays

Similarly, you can learn more about a particular flight such as aircraft type, total distance flown and if there’s meal service on board.

When you click on the letter B under the first flight in the example, it indicates that first class receives breakfast. The V next to it means food for sale.

The ExpertFlyer seatmap is updated in real time as it reflects the global distribution system. The map is a good resource for knowing which seats are available, for sale, blocked or open to assign.

If you’re standing at the gate and wondering if there are any empty seats you can move to at the last minute, you’ll be able to determine this using the seat map tool.

In the above example of a Delta flight, there are eight seats available to assign in the premium cabin. If you prefer to reserve one of the previously assigned seats, you can set an alert to receive an email if it becomes available.

This can be especially helpful for full flights where you want seats together with a companion or want a particular seat.

» Learn more: What to look for in airline seat reviews

The fare information section provides details on the fare rules for each of the different fares available on a particular flight. This is the same information that airlines or travel advisors use when providing details on cancellation or change policies and other restrictions on a ticket.

The travel information section allows you to look up what visa, passport or travel requirements are in place for visiting or transiting through particular countries.

The example below shows instructions for passengers departing the U.S. and traveling to Algeria via France. It explains that you will need a passport with a minimum of six months validity from the arrival date as well as a visa. Visas on arrival are only available for travelers to specific destinations within the country, along with certain restrictions.

As visa requirements can change quite often, this is a useful tool for frequent international travelers.

You can also find details on historical wait times for security or how often a particular flight is delayed. The minimum connection time tool also indicates how much time you should allow between particular flights in each airport. This can come in handy if you’re booking separate reservations (instead of booking all your flights in one ticket) to save money .

ExpertFlyer has a pricing model with three tiers.

Free and a la carte. There’s a free membership that includes access to ExpertFlyer seat maps and the ability to set alerts for preferred seat changes. One alert at a time is allowed for free, with additional seat alerts available for $0.99 each.

Basic tier. A basic membership costs $4.99 per month and allows 250 monthly searches for awards along with access to Expert Flyer seat maps, seat alerts, flight schedules and travel information.

Premium tier. The highest-level membership costs $99.99 annually or $9.99 per month. This service provides access to all of the site’s functionality mentioned above, including unlimited search queries. It also adds extra benefits such as mobile access and the ability to create alerts for aircraft changes or flight availability. You can also do flexible date searches for as many as three days before or after a particular travel date.

» Learn more: The best airline credit cards right now

If you travel frequently, ExpertFlyer is a useful tool to have. Being in control of your travel reservations, especially when there are disruptions or you’re looking to use miles and upgrades on the best flights, means that ExpertFlyer can be a frequent flyer’s best friend. That said, if you only travel a few times a year, the free or basic version may be a better option.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

20 Facts About Moscow: Fun & Interesting

Russias capital Moscow is a city full of history, that is perhaps only known for things like Red Square, the Kremlin and St. Basil’s cathedral.

But,  it pays to know a few facts about Moscow before you take a trip there. Here are 2o facts about Moscow.

Moscow Is Huge

Moscow is the largest city in Europe in fact Moscow is so big that it has the right to be its own country. The city of Moscow is home to 12 million residents which puts it in the top 10 most populated cities in the world. There are more people in Moscow than in both Switzerland and Norway combined.

Stay Dogs Use The Metro In Moscow

The stray dogs of Moscow cityare super smart and have learned to use the city’s metro in order to survive the cold winters. While using the metro you might just bump into one of these super-smart train-loving dogs. They recognize the stops by the tannoy announcements and hop and off just like we do.

There Is An Underground River In Moscow

The Neglinnaya River flowed through the Russian capital for centuries undisturbed but no one could live on the western side of its banks as it flooded every year. Russian engineering then took over and they diverted the river into an underground tunnel which now flows under Neglinnaya Street into the Moskva river and then built on the old river that is now dry.

The Tunisian Embassy Is Haunted

The Tunisian Embassy in Moscow is the old home of Lavrentiy Beria, the chief of the secret police during Stalin’s era. It’s said that Lavrentiy would kidnap beautiful women, take them home, have his way with them and then murder them. They are now said to haunt the Tunisian Embassy at 28 Malaya Nikitskaya St.

Diplomats have woken up to safes being open and papers scattered everywhere, they hear footsteps in the day and the night and a lot of Tunisian Diplomats have asked to be relocated due to the spooky occurrences.

Gorky Park Is Amazingly Busy

Gorky Park is the central park of Moscow and on average plays host to 100,000 people every day. That is one busy park and one of the busiest in the world.

Izmailovo Park Is Huge

Izmailovo Park is actually one of the largest urban parks in the world. It measured  15.34 square kilometers (1534 hectares) and is roughly six times Central Park, if that helps.

It Is A Religious Capital

Fun fact about Moscow, it is actually the spiritual center of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Moscow Has The Most Billionaires

Moscow is home to more billionaires than any other city in the world. There are around 84 billionaires living in Moscow with a combined total wealth of 367 billion dollars. New York comes second with 62 billionaires live there.

The Metro Never Breaks Down

If you live in a city then you know how annoying it is when the metro breaks and you’re late for work. Well, this doesn’t happen in Moscow. The Moscow Metro has only broken down once, on the 16th of October in 1941, and has never failed since.

The Largest Bell In The World Is In Moscow

The Tsar Bell we know today weighs 200 tonnes and it has never been rung, but this is the third version of this huge bell. The first was 18 tonnes and required 24 men just to make it ring but it was then broken into pieces during a fire. The same thing happened to Tsar Bell version 2, and then came version 3 which was buried after another fire and took 40 years to get out.

Moscow Doesn’t Believe In Tears

The saying “Moscow Doesn’t Believe In Tears” is one of the oldest sayings in the country. It stems pack to people who couldn’t pay their tribute to Moscow and would cry and beg for an extension. The emperor would say “Moscow Doesn’t Believe In Tears”.

The Highest Monument In Moscow

The highest monument in Moscow is the Victory Obelisk. It’s a huge 141.8 meters tall and was built in May 1995 as a representation of the Great Patriotic War. Every 10 cm of the Victory Obelisk represents a single fay of the war.

The Seven Sisters Of Moscow

The seven sisters of Moscow, aka Stalin’s Skyscrapers, are 7 identical skyscrapers that stand amongst Moscow’s skyline. Today 2 are apartments, 2 are offices, 2 are hotels, and one is a university.

The Busiest Metro

9 million people use the Moscow Metro every day which is more than New York and London combined.

Moscow State University  

Maybe something most people don’t know, but Moscow State University is actually the world’s largest university building.

Largest Botanical Garden

Moscow is home to Europe’s biggest botanical garden, the Botanical Garden of the Academy of Sciences which is home to 18,000 species of plants from around the Soviet Union and the rest of the world.

There’s A Lot Of Choice For Dinners Out

There are over 2700 different restaurants in Moscow and the number is ever-growing. You’ll never be short of dinner options in Moscow and just imagine searching on Just-Eat.

The Highest Tower In Europe

The Ostankino TV Tower in Moscow is the tallest in all of Europe and measures an incredible 540 meter high.

Assumption Cathedral

In the Kremlin, you’ll find the oldest building that survived all the fires in Moscow, the Assumption Cathedral. It was completed in August of 1479 and is now 542 years old. The most impressive thing is that it managed to survive all the fires Moscow experienced.

The Kremlin Was Rebuilt By Italians

The Kremlin, located right near Red Square, is actually called the Moscow Kremlin. In the 15th century, the Moscow Kremlin wall and its temples were in serious need of repair but the Russian architects at the time couldn’t handle it. Grand Duke Ivan III then asked the Italians to come and help restore the Kremlin to its former glory.

Moscow Has Burned Down A Lot

The city of Moscow has burned down countless times. All the houses in Moscow used to be built from wood and thus the city burned to its knees quite easily and has been rebuilt several times. These were the fires that burned down the Tsar Bells.

McDonald’s Created A Scene

The first Mcdonald’s opened in Moscow in January of 1990. Despite the cold weather on that winter’s day, the Moscow residents cued patiently waiting for their first McDonald’s meal. The cue was so long it measured several kilometers.

There Was A Tornado In Moscow

Moscow’s one and the only tornado hit the city on June 29, 1904. The tornado ran rampant through the streets destroying a lot of the ancient trees of Sokolniki and destroyed a lot of nearby villages and homes in the city.

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

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10 Best Russia Tour Operators 2024 [Unbiased & With Reviews]

10 best russia tour operators 2024.

Are you planning to visit Russia, but unsure which tour provider to select? Now, you no longer have to waste time searching the internet and filling out dozens of contact forms. Simply fill out ONE form, we’ll send it off to multiple tour providers and they’ll contact YOU! You’ll be able to compare rates and find the lowest cost tour for the most affordable trip abroad.

Get Free Quotes From 10 Best Russia Tour Operators

Have you been thinking about an exciting trip to amazing Russia? Are you interested in enjoying a memorable tour in Russia ? Does the idea of visiting Russia with the top tour company sound great to you?

Russia, the world’s largest country, boasts a diverse landscape with castles, mountains, and frozen lands, complemented by exceptional cuisine. Whether in St Petersburg, Moscow, or Siberia, Russia offers opportunities to explore the Tundra and witness the Northern Lights. Enjoy skiing, visit volcanoes, palaces, and castles, and indulge in a vodka production tour.

Choosing the right tour company is crucial for a memorable trip to Russia. With numerous options available, investing in a top-rated company can save you time and money, ensuring a fun, safe, and regret-free adventure.

We strongly believe that without comprehensive and analytical research, you may end up spending a lot of money and time on a company that does not have your best interest. With our help, you will find well-researched and analyzed information about the top 10 tour companies in Russia to help make a solid and informed decision.

Continue reading to explore the top 10 highly rated tour companies in Russia and their best travel packages.

Table update Jan 19, 2024

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company

As one of the Russia’s oldest tour operators, Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company has been providing travel-related services since 1991. The key focus of their tour is the city of Volgograd itself. This leading tour operator offers day-tours, excursions and even virtual tours of Volgograd and its surrounding areas. The company is led by a team of dedicated and friendly tour guides that will help you make the most of your visit throughout your stay. They believe in receiving their foreign guests with a positive attitude and thus, invite you on a tour of Volgograd.

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company Best Russia Tour Packages

This company organizes many different activities for you to be a part of in their tour packages. Honor Soviet war heroes in their historic 3 Day Stalingrad Battlefield Tour . You will visit different sights along the Volga and Don rivers and see places of historical importance in this tour.

Don’t miss out on their sightseeing tour of Hero-City Volgograd . See major sights from the WW II era like the Alley of Heroes, Peace Street, Eternal Flame and many more.

The company also offers a unique tour of Rossoshka where you can observe German and Soviet cemeteries. The central attraction of this tour is a famous sculpture named the “Mourning Mother”.

Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company Reviews

Volgograd Sputnik’s long-standing history is marked by praises and appreciation from the many tourists they have served. This Russian travel company has 326 reviews on TripAdvisor and is ranked as #1 of 17 Tours & Activities in Volgograd. A past customer of theirs wrote:

Went on the big tour of Stalingrad this morning was out for about 5 hours with my man Mikhail. A bit pricey but a good engaging overview chauffeured and one on one… Alexander

Read all reviews of Volgograd Sputnik Travel Company on TripAdvisor .

Explore the diverse landscapes of Hungary by joining one of the 10 Best Hungary Tour Operators , guaranteeing an immersive and enjoyable trip.

Flotilla Radisson Royal

If you are looking for a luxurious cruise experience in Moscow then look no further than Flotilla Radisson Royal ! This top-reviewed Russian travel operator provides excellent tours on the Moscow River where you can enjoy the best views of Moscow. They have a fleet of 10 ice-class yachts that are fully serviced for sightseeing tours as well as large private gatherings. The team at Flotilla Radisson Royal is highly specialized in bringing you the comfort you seek on your trip to Russia.

Flotilla Radisson Royal Best Russia Tour Packages

Flotilla Radisson Royal provides a large array of tour packages on their first-class luxury yachts.

The company offers one of the most unique yacht cruises through the display of theatre! Book their Dinner with a Classic boat tour where you will watch an Italian drama performance. Enjoy the bewitching sights of Moscow city while fine-dining on special Italian dishes.

Their services also extend to themed cruises on their yachts. You can call ahead and book a customizable cruise. They offer sightseeing, romantic, theatrical, literary, family and gastronomic tours in this package.

You can also go on regular yacht cruises according to their yacht schedule. They will take you on a round-trip of Russia’s popular attractions.

Flotilla Radisson Royal Reviews

This tour company in Russia provides an interesting mix of exciting and luxurious boat trips that all customers seem to like. They have 1,127 reviews on TripAdvisor, out of which most are 5-star ratings. They are ranked as #2 of 96 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Moscow. A satisfied customer wrote:

This was a surprise for me by my partner and daughter. Getting onto the boat was very orderly, and our table was gratefully in a good position so Moscow at night could be appreciated… Pete17 Read all reviews of Flotilla Radisson Royal on TripAdvisor

ExploRussia

ExploRussia is a leading Russian tour operator that specializes in creating exceptional tours for global travelers seeking an authentic and local perspective in Russia. The agency is one of the best when it comes to showcasing Russia’s historical landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and contemporary culture. The company was first established in 2012 with the aim of responsible tourism in mind. Comprising a team of passionate and young entrepreneurs, the company is dedicated to bring you a fantastic vacation in Russia with personalized attention and off-the-beaten-track exploration.

ExploRussia Best Russia Tour Packages

The team at ExploRussia goes the extra mile with their tour packages to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience in their country.

You can choose to go on their Moscow Off the Beaten Path Tour where you will experience the local culture of Moscow without being in crowded streets. Explore the Orthodox Church, taste different Russian food and discover the major sights like Kremlin, Red Square and Bolshoi Theatre.

 You can also explore traditional markets with your own local tour guide on their Moscow Food Tour . You will discover enchanting Russian cuisine and taste different kinds of food items that are remnants of the USSR.

For an adventurous journey, travel to the mountains of Altai near Moscow. In this 6 day tour of the Altai Mountains, you will be in close contact with nature while camping and horse-riding around local villages.

ExploRussia Reviews

As the pioneers of responsible tourism in Russia, ExploRussia has set a great example to other local and international tour companies. This Russian tour operator has 595 reviews on TripAdvisor and is ranked at the top as #1 of 1,116 Shopping in Central Russia. A recent customer of theirs wrote:

When I reached out to Olga from ExploRussia , she was already invested in my request , asking the right questions and pointing out the possibilities… Hassan M

Read all reviews of ExploRussia on TripAdvisor .

 Explore the cultural treasures of Turkey by choosing one of the 10 Best Turkey Tour Operators , providing expert guidance.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours

St. Petersburg Guided Tours , founded in 2005, is a locally owned travel company in Russia. The company is founded by Valeria Grigoryeva, a licensed and qualified tour guide. They operate private and customized free tours. Their services include walking adventures, cultural, and historical tours. The guides are highly qualified professionals passionate about Russia’s history with extensive experience in the local and international travel industry. With this company, you will certainly have a memorable time traveling through the Russian countryside.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

For more than 15 years, St. Petersburg Guided Tours has improved and perfected fun, authentic, and luxury Russian tours to select from .

If you are looking to spend quality time with your partner, you can choose their  Romantic Getaway Tour . On this excursion, you will visit the Empress Alexandra residence built in 1829.

You can also join the  2-Day comfort Tour  carefully planned for you to see many city sights of St. Petersburg without waiting or standing in line.

They also have a popular  1-Day Private Tour  that will give you value for your money by taking you for a day tour in St. Petersburg. After visiting famous museums, you will be introduced to traditional foods and vodka tasting.

St. Petersburg Guided Tours Reviews

This local tour operator in Russia has no shortage of great reviews and satisfied clients. They are ranked as #2 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg and have 156 reviews on TripAdvisor. A customer that toured with them recently wrote:

Everything was very well organised by Valeria, from helping us with choosing the right accommodation, preparation of visas and including the right places to visit… Dmitri L

Read all reviews of St. Petersburg Guided Tours on TripAdvisor .

Archer Tour

Archer Tour is a local Russian travel agency that provides group and individual tours of major sights in Russia. Their aim is not to give you a lot of tours but to make each tour worthy and memorable. They also offer tailor-made and custom tours that you can plan according to your requirements. As a company, Archer Tour is continuously improving their services and trying to be one of the best tour companies in Russia. Your vacation to Russia will be worthwhile and entertaining with Archer Tour at your side!

Archer Tour Best Russia Tour Packages

From private and corporate escorts to boat trips, paragliding and flights, the range of tour packages that Archer Tour provides is absolutely immense.

Take their Sightseeing Tour of Kaliningrad and discover a unique blend of German and Soviet architecture. You can see museums, churches and military fortifications in this diverse tour package.

Also, their Baltiysk and Yantarny Tour provide historical background into Russia’s important monuments. In this trip, you can take a ferry to Vistula Spit as well as visit an amber factory and see amber production up close!

Archer Tour also provides VIP tours upon customers’ request. You will get the best luxury services, the highest level on comfort and a visit to the top locations and restaurants in their tailor-made VIP tours.

Ahtilahti Best Russia Tour Packages

Ahtilahti’s quality of service regarding their tours and tour packages are unmatched and they’ll ensure that you have the best vacation of your life in Russia.

Plan ahead and go on a Kayaking Tour of the Oredezh River . This trip is perfect for beginner rafters since there are no challenging rapids. You will get to enjoy the tranquil nature while having an exciting experience.

For a winter tour, you can opt for their phenomenal Skating Tour on Lake Baikal . As the oldest lake on Earth, Lake Baikal has a special wonder to it. Your guide will accompany you as you skate, have fun and enjoy the Siberian landscape in this amazing journey.

Explore their hometown of Kaliningrad on a road-trip . In this 7 day tour, Ahtilahti will take you a thrilling journey that covers all of Kaliningrad’s major as well as non-trivial attractions for a truly immersive experience.

Ahtilahti Reviews

Considered one of the most unique travel agencies in Russia, few companies can accomplish what Ahtilahti has accomplished through their tours. They have 171 reviews on TripAdvisor and are ranked as #2 of 157 Boat Tours & Water Sports in St. Petersburg. This is what a satisfied customer said about them:

Excellent experience with SUPsurfing starting from narrow channel in SpB center and going to Neva river. Surfing is safe, supervised by both guiedes Asja and Dmitry… Dr D

Read all reviews of Ahtilahti on TripAdvisor .

As a fully licensed tour company in Russia, Alla Tours proudly offers the best tour and travel services in Russia. Established in 2005, the company is renowned for its top-notch tour guides and detailed itineraries. Their top priority is offering fulfilling, safe, and authentic tours for travelers worldwide. Based in St. Petersburg, Alla Tours has also developed tour excursions across Europe and the Baltic region. With personalized service in mind, Alla Tours will take you on a trip across Russia that will be imprinted in your memory for a lifetime!

Alla Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

With years of service in the tourism industry, Alla Tours offers an extensive array of tour packages in Russia to choose from. You can join their  1-day St. Petersburg Intro Tour  and visit many spectacular venues, including the Peterhof Fountains and Garden and the Hermitage Museum. On this guided private walking tour of St. Petersburg, Russia, you will be able to see the city through the eyes of the locals.

If you have more time, you can take the  2-day St. Petersburg Royal Tour  and combine top-ranked sights with a shore excursion. The tour is perfect for discovering Russia’s modern art, architecture, canals, and rivers.

Comfort is an essential factor during a vacation trip so the  2-Day St. Petersburg Comfort Tour  combines top attractions, including the Church of the Spilled Blood, Hermitage Museum, and Peterhof Fountain Park.

Alla Tours Reviews

Alla Tours is a Russian tour operator that is well-respected by international as well as local tour companies. Their 4,798 reviews on TripAdvisor are a evidence to their top-notch service. They are ranked as #8 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg. A past client of theirs wrote:

A full 2 day tour picked up from our cruise ship. Gives a great taste of all the major attractions. Not cheap but fully worth the cost. Cannot recommend highly enough… Mark_Dornoch

Read all reviews of Alla Tours on TripAdvisor .

Embark on a Scandinavian getaway in Finland. Join one of the 10 Best Finland Tour Operators , guaranteeing a memorable and relaxing vacation.

Moscow Private Tours

Moscow Private Tours , founded in 2011, is one of the highest-reviewed tour companies in Russia. They cater exclusively to private and small groups ensuring the best quality service. They are the #1 Rated Private Tours in Moscow. They have their tourists’ best interests in mind and their tours are personalized, child-friendly and have flexible timings. Their tour guides are highly trained locals that will look after you on your trip. Your trip to Russia will be made easier and hassle-free through this company’s continuous efforts.

Moscow Private Tours Best Russia Tour Packages

Catering to small and private groups, Moscow Private Tours’ various tour packages are enjoyable and all-inclusive.

Enjoy the complete Kremlin experience on their Kremlin and Armoury Tour . Visit the State Kremlin Palace, see the Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell and immerse yourself into medieval history and architecture, Soviet heritage and imperial treasures in this popular tour package.

Moscow looks the prettiest during the night. Go on their Night Moscow Tour with a private guide and see its major attractions like the Bolshoi Theatre and St Basil’s Cathedral.

Embrace the cultural swirl of Russian cuisine through their Russian Food Tour . From borscht to pancakes, eat your way through 3 different eateries and learn about traditional Russian food and their origins.

Moscow Private Tours Reviews

As one of the best-rated tour operators in Russia, Moscow Private Tours has a spectacular track record of many satisfactory clients. They are ranked as #9 of 540 Tours & Activities in all of Moscow and have over 1300 reviews on TripAdvisor. A customer who visited them recently wrote:

Very nice boat tour around Moscow with good dinner and excellent tour guide (Maria). Thanks for your service. I recommend it… Seradi155

Read all reviews of Moscow Private Tours on TripAdvisor .

Discover the natural wonders of the Czech Republic by joining one of the 10 Best Czech Republic Tour Operators , promising an unforgettable and eco-friendly adventure.

Bridge to Moscow

With more than 10 years of experience in the tourism industry, Bridge to Moscow is a highly-rated tour operator in Russia. They offer original and professional private tours in Moscow. They apply a personal approach to their customers, viewing them as friends rather than tourists. The company values commitment, safety and reliability above all else. Bridge to Moscow stands out from the rest through their team of licensed multi-lingual tour guides that dedicate all their efforts to bring you an excellent vacation in Russia.

Bridge to Moscow Best Russia Tour Packages

With over 97 detailed travel itineraries, you will have a large selection of tour packages to choose from.

If you are planning a trip to visit Russian churches, you can start with their Sergiev Posad Tour . This early 14 th century monastery holds intricate architecture and soulful history. See their iconic cathedrals, watch the church choir and visit local bakeries in this tour.

For a sightseeing tour of Moscow, you can book their Moscow in 1 Day tour package. You will be able to visit Moscow’s historic center, the Red Square and the presidential and state palaces. Don’t forget to check out their Moscow Metro as well.

Also, you can choose Glimpses of Baikal tour for a nature-infused experience. This 3 day tour will have you travelling through local villages to reach Lake Baikal. Once there, you can admire the breathtaking views of the oldest lake on the planet and its surrounding areas.

Bridge to Moscow Reviews

Bridge to Moscow’s tours has gathered a lot of positive reviews from many tourists that deemed them to be satisfactory. This Russian travel agency has 454 reviews on TripAdvisor and stands as #10 of 540 Tours & Activities in Moscow. A client that recently toured with them wrote:

The metro tour was very very interesting. My son loved it. And our guide Ivan was so friendly and knowledgeable… chandrasekar r

Read all reviews of Bridge to Moscow on TripAdvisor .

White Nights Travel

White Nights Travel is a unique company that offers a wide range of professionally customized private tours in St. Petersburg. The company’s bespoke services make them a popular tour company in Russia that provides programs suitable for seniors, families, and groups with the chance to explore beautiful locations in St. Petersburg. The company caters to tourists from all walks of life and is happy to work within your budget. White Night Travel’s major goal is to give you a different yet authentic Russian experience of a lifetime.

White Nights Travel Best Russia Tour Packages

There are plenty of options you can choose from with White Nights Travel’s tour packages.

The  Walking Tour with Hermitage  is one of the most popular programs the company offers in St. Petersburg. During the trip, you will discover various art galleries, museums, and parks, and in the evening, you will walk to the city center for vodka tasting and street food.

Do not miss out on the world-class five-hour Russia  Golden Tour  that will provide an opportunity to walk to Catherine Palace, Amber Room, and Church of the Spilled Blood.

The  Jewish Heritage Tour  combines a boat ride tour and the Grans Choral Synagogue tour, which offers you a fantastic opportunity to learn Jewish history in Russia with an English-speaking guide.

White Nights Travel Reviews

Their personalized service and attention to detail has led White Nights Travel to become one of the best tour operators in Russia. With over 650 reviews on TripAdvisor, the company is ranked #10 of 670 Tours & Activities in St. Petersburg. A past customer wrote:

Maria was absolutely fabulous showing our group of 8 the beautiful sights of St. Petersburg. She was so good at moving us thru crowds, her English is spectacular… Debra D

Read all reviews of White Nights Travel on TripAdvisor .

Dive into the rich history and culture of Greece. Join one of the 10 Best Greece Tour Operators , ensuring an immersive and authentic experience.

The best time to visit Russia is during the months of May to September. Although Russia is the largest country and weather can vary vastly, the popular cities and locations in Russia will be experiencing a warm weather and long, sunny days during this time.

You can expect to spend around $60 – $80 for a solo traveler staying at a decently rated hotel. This price will cover food, transportation and other fees. For a more luxurious vacation, you will be spending anywhere from $150 – $250.

Russia has a lot of specialties attached to it. From ballet and theatre to vodka and Russian culture, there is a lot to expect. Famous landmarks include Lake Baikal, The Red Square, The Hermitage and Moscow Metro System.

Being the largest country on the planet, there is definitely a lot of area to cover in Russia. However, most of Russia is barren and uninhabitable. For popular tourist destinations, 2 weeks should be enough for a majestic experience of Russian culture, nature and food.

The most iconic Russian dishes include the Blini (Russian pancakes), Pelmeni, Beef Stroganoff, Syrniki, Kasha (porridge), Borscht and Okroshka. Russia is also famous for their world-renowned vodka.

Travelicious

5 Tips to Get Your Passport Fast, Experts Say

Posted: October 6, 2023 | Last updated: October 6, 2023

Sometimes, the urge to take a life-changing trip can strike without notice. And while there are plenty of naturally beautiful and culturally vibrant places you can see right in the U.S., your dream destination might be abroad—which means you'll need a valid passport to get there. Unfortunately, spur-of-the-moment travel might be difficult for those who've never applied or need to renew their expired document, with current processing times taking anywhere from eight to 11 weeks , according to the U.S. State Department. But if you've absolutely got to get away, there are still a few ways you can speed things up. Read on for tips from experts on how to get your passport fast.

RELATED: 10 Clothing Items You Shouldn't Wear on a Plane .

1 Apply in person.

Applying for or renewing a passport typically involves getting all of the necessary documents together and shipping them off to be processed. But if you need to cut down some time, you might want to consider showing up in person.

"If you need a passport ASAP, you should contact the closest Passport Agency or Center," says Brittany Mendez , travel expert and chief marketing officer of FloridaPanhandle.com. "You have to schedule an appointment with them, and typically there are only two reasons that can qualify you for the expedited process: 'Life-or-Death Emergency Service' or 'Urgent Travel Service,'" both of which require documentation of an upcoming trip such as a plane ticket, she explains.

RELATED: Travelers Are Boycotting Southwest Over New Boarding Change .

2 Pay for a professional passport expediting service.

If you're genuinely pressed for time, getting your document processed quickly might come down to being willing to shell out a little extra cash to let professionals hand it—especially if you have a busy schedule. In this case, Justin Albertynas , travel expert and CEO of the travel company Ratepunk, says you should consider using a passport expediter company.

"These firms are equipped to handle passport processing quickly, sometimes securing them in as little as 24 to 48 hours," he says. "They charge a fee, of course, but for last-minute travel or unforeseen passport issues, they're a lifesaver. The fees get steeper in regards to how fast you want your passport done, but they will save you precious time and stress nonetheless."

However, others point out such services aren't foolproof. "These third-party companies basically do the legwork for you, but remember that they can't secure a new passport on your behalf any faster than you can," says Mercedes Zach , a travel expert at ASAP Tickets .

RELATED: TSA Announces It Will Flag Certain Passengers for Extra Screening .

3 Expedite the shipping.

It's not just the processing that can take time while applying: Postage and shipping can also lag, costing precious days. Fortunately, there's a relatively affordable way to ensure your documents don't spend too much time in transit .

RELATED: 8 Beautiful Places Where You Can Go Without a Passport .

4 Be sure your photos are correct.

It's your responsibility to get new passport photos taken (they can't be older than six months) and include them in your application. A new report from ItsEasy Passport Renewal & Photo App , however, says that "per the Department of State, the #1 reason passport applications are suspended or put on hold is non-compliant photos."

Some of the common mistakes they cite are having your head take up too much or not enough space in the photo, looking away from the camera, having squinted or closed eyes, or wearing eyeglasses. They also note that head coverings are only allowed in photos for religious reasons, and these photos must be accompanied by a note that states this.

5 Have your documents in order.

Finally, don't let a simple slip-up delay your passport. Just like a trip to the post office or bank, having your affairs in order beforehand can significantly reduce wasted time.

"The most common delay in passport processing is incorrect or incomplete documentation," says Sam Charlton , CEO of Fast Passports & Visas . "Ensure all your documents are in order and double-check them against the requirements. Having a well-organized plan can save you from the limbo of bureaucratic delays."

For more travel tips sent directly to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Read the original article on Best Life .

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