By: Michael Walstrom, Senior Travel Consultant (CTA)
Seattle – We arrived a day early and booked an extra night at the Sheraton Grand which is in a great location and has very good rooms.
Day 1: We started at the Starbucks Reserve and then walked the city. The Space needle and Chihuly Gardens were the highlight of the day. We met with the group for an orientation at night.
Day 2: Up bright and early for a city tour and Pike Place Market. We also grabbed a ferry on our own to Bainbridge Island to spend the afternoon
Day 3: We left Seattle to head to Oregon with a stop at Multnomah Falls and stopping for the night in Portland which still has far too many issues.
Day 4: After breakfast we stopped at the International Rose test garden and then headed for the beautiful Oregon coast. We stayed in the seaside village of Newport in an ocean view balcony room. As a group we went to a seaside restaurant
Day 5: We departed to view more of the coast and stopped for a dune buggy ride with the forest on one side and the ocean on the other. and stayed the night in North Bend at a casino-hotel
Day 6: We headed off to Redwood national park for a little hiking and viewing of the scenic Rogue River. Took a scenic Jet boat ride on the river. We stayed the night in Eureka, California
Day 7: Early morning back thru the Humboldt Redwoods State Park where Redwoods were enormous and up to 1800 years old. Journeyed through small towns on the way to San Francisco with a stop in Sausalito which is simply beautiful.
Day 8: After a morning tour of San Francisco with the group (outside of Tourist areas SFO still hurting badly) we headed by Bart to Livermore (spectacular ) to visit some old friends and check out a few wineries. The following morning we headed home bright & early
Overall a very good adventure and learned a lot about the logistics of how Globus operates the tours
I had such an amazing adventure on my tour. It started in Las Vegas and went on to the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Lake Powell, Antelope Slot Canyon, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.
When we arrived at the Grand Canyon and walked out to the south rim the sheer beauty made me cry! The following morning I took the excursion helicopter ride over the Canyon. It was so amazing to see from different viewing levels.
Each park we went to I thought wow this is my favorite but in the end Zion National Park was my perfect match!
I really enjoyed the educational information (history and Science) that the tour director informed us about as we drove from location to location. I noticed everyone in our group really enjoyed her personality and when things didn’t go as planned she was very quick at finding a resolution.
Taking this tour has helped me now understand this process from door to door. Tours are really wonderful for people not looking for just a vacation but an immersive experience.
Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but with so many different destinations and activities to choose from, planning a trip can be overwhelming. Identifying your travel style is one way to make the planning process easier and ensure that you have the best possible experience. Understanding your travel style can help you choose the right destinations, activities, and accommodations for your trip and ensure that you have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.
There are several different travel styles to consider, each with its own unique characteristics and appeal. These include world discovery, self-discovery, pure adrenaline adventure, family fun, and sit back and relax. In the following sections, we will explore each of these travel styles in more detail, providing examples of popular destinations and activities and tips for planning a trip that aligns with your travel style. By the end of this article, you’ll better understand your travel style and will be ready and eager to finding your perfect adventure!
World Discovery:
If you’re someone who is always eager to explore new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, then world discovery may be your travel style. This type of travel is all about immersing yourself in the local culture, experiencing new things, and gaining a deeper understanding of the world around you.
Popular world discovery destinations include cities with rich history and cultural significance, such as Paris, Rome, Tokyo, and New York City. These destinations offer a wealth of museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks to explore. Additionally, several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Great Barrier Reef, Machu Picchu, and Petra, offer unique and fascinating experiences.
In terms of activities, world discovery travelers enjoy exploring local markets, trying new foods, and attending cultural festivals. They also tend to take guided tours of historic sites or attend local cultural events. Additionally, world discovery travelers may choose to learn a new language or take cooking classes in order to fully immerse themselves in the local culture.
When planning a world discovery trip, it’s important to research the local culture and customs in order to have a respectful and enjoyable experience. Consider staying in locally-owned accommodations such as guesthouses or bed and breakfasts, which will provide a more authentic experience. Additionally, try to spend time in areas outside of the typical tourist hotspots to truly experience the local culture.
World discovery travel is perfect for those who are curious about the world and want to learn and experience new things. By choosing world discovery as your travel style, you’ll be able to broaden your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the world around you.
Self-Discovery:
If you’re looking for a more introspective travel experience, self-discovery may be your style. This style is all about self-reflection, personal growth, and taking time to connect with oneself. Self-discovery travel can be incredibly fulfilling, and it can also be a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impact on your life.
Popular self-discovery destinations include places that offer a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, such as Bali, Costa Rica, and the Himalayas. These destinations often offer meditation retreats, yoga classes, and wellness programs, which can help you connect with your inner self and find peace within.
When it comes to activities, self-discovery travelers may choose to embark on a solo journey, or they may opt to join a group retreat or wellness program. These programs often include activities like meditation, yoga, and mindfulness exercises, which can help travelers connect with their inner selves and achieve a sense of clarity and peace. Finding Your Perfect Adventure
When planning a self-discovery trip, choosing a destination that aligns with your interests and goals is important. Consider attending a wellness program or retreat that offers activities that appeal to you, such as yoga, meditation, or hiking. Additionally, try to spend time in nature, as being in a natural environment can be incredibly restorative and rejuvenating.
Self-discovery travel is perfect for those who are looking to disconnect from their daily routine and reconnect with themselves. By choosing self-discovery as your travel style, you’ll be able to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world and return home feeling refreshed and renewed.
Pure Adrenaline Adventure:
If you love an adrenaline rush and crave excitement, then pure adrenaline adventure may be your travel style. This style is all about pushing your limits, trying new things, and experiencing the thrill of adventure.
Popular pure adrenaline adventure destinations include places like New Zealand, Costa Rica, and the Swiss Alps. These destinations offer a range of activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, skydiving, and extreme sports like snowboarding and skiing.
When it comes to activities, pure adrenaline adventure travelers enjoy pushing themselves to their limits and trying new things. They may choose to participate in extreme sports, like surfing or rock climbing, or take part in adventure tours, like jungle treks or zip lining.
When planning a pure adrenaline adventure trip, it’s important to research and plan ahead to ensure your safety. Consider booking with reputable adventure tour companies and read reviews from past travelers. Additionally, make sure to pack appropriate gear and clothing for the activities you’ll be participating in.
Pure adrenaline adventure travel is perfect for those who are looking to push their boundaries and experience something new and exciting. By choosing pure adrenaline adventure as your travel style, you’ll be able to step out of your comfort zone and create unforgettable memories. So, whether it’s skydiving, bungee jumping, or white water rafting, get ready to feel the rush and embrace the adventure!
Family Fun:
If you’re planning a trip with your family, then family fun may be your travel style. This style is about creating lasting memories with your loved ones and enjoying activities everyone can participate in.
Popular family fun destinations include theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios and beach destinations like Hawaii and the Caribbean. These destinations offer a range of activities, such as water sports, hiking, and amusement park rides that are perfect for all ages.
When it comes to activities, family fun travelers enjoy spending time together and participating in activities that everyone can enjoy, they may choose to visit museums, go on bike rides, or explore nature trails together.
When finding your perfect adventure, it’s important to choose a destination that offers a variety of activities for all ages. Consider visiting a theme park or beach destination that offers a mix of activities perfect for kids and adults. Additionally, make sure to plan ahead and book any activities or tickets in advance to avoid long lines or sell-outs.
Family fun travel is perfect for those who are looking to create lasting memories with their loved ones. By choosing family fun as your travel style, you’ll be able to bond with your family and enjoy activities that everyone can participate in. So, whether it’s riding roller coasters, building sandcastles, or exploring a new city, get ready for some family fun and adventure!
Sit Back and Relax:
If you’re someone who wants to escape the stress of daily life and unwind on vacation, then sit back and relax may be your travel style. This style is about taking it easy and enjoying activities promoting relaxation and rejuvenation.
Popular sit back and relax destinations include beach resorts in the Caribbean, Hawaii, and the Maldives. These destinations offer a range of activities, such as lounging on the beach, enjoying a spa treatment, or taking a leisurely stroll through beautiful gardens or parks.
When it comes to activities, sit back and relax travelers enjoy activities that promote rest and relaxation. They may choose to read a book on the beach, take a yoga class, or enjoy a massage.
When planning a sit back and relax trip, it’s important to choose a destination that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Consider booking a resort or hotel that offers spa services, meditation classes, or yoga sessions. Additionally, make sure to pack comfortable clothing and anything else that will help you unwind, such as a good book or a playlist of soothing music.
Sit back and relax travel is perfect for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and focus on self-care and rejuvenation. By choosing sit back and relax as your travel style, you’ll be able to unwind and recharge, returning home feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. So, whether it’s lounging on a tropical beach, enjoying a spa treatment, or taking a leisurely walk, sit back, relax, and let your worries slip away.
Choosing Your Travel Style:
Now that you know the different travel styles, how do you go about choosing the one that’s right for you? Here are some factors to consider: ● Your interests: Think about what you enjoy doing in your free time. Do you prefer adventurous activities or more relaxed experiences? Are you interested in exploring new cultures or spending time with your family? ● Your travel goals: Consider what you hope to get out of your trip. Do you want to see new sights, learn something new, or simply relax and unwind? ● Your travel companions: Think about who you will be traveling with. Are you traveling with family, friends, or solo? Are your companions interested in the same activities as you?
Once you’ve identified your interests, travel goals, and companions, you can start to narrow down your options and choose a travel style that’s right for you.
If you’re having trouble identifying your travel style, try taking a quiz or researching to see which style aligns with your preferences. Remember that there is no right or wrong travel style, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Wellness Tours and Why They Are Growing in Popularity
Wellness is a selling point for so many companies, and when it comes to feeling good; you want to be one of the many taking advantage of them. Wellness tours are one of the newest types of tours on the market, and they are offering the promise of a healthier, more vibrant feeling vacation with your wellness in mind.
It is projected by GWI that there are over 1 billion wellness trips planned already for this year. Not just for the body, but for the mind. Many of those who are looking to improve their overall wellness are finding that these tips are exactly what they’ve been looking for all along.
Wellness touring, because of this boost in sales is up over 200 billion, making this one of the most spent on vacation types. Many areas are going to see more visitation and spending than others such as the Sub-Saharan African region and the Middle East.
What is a Wellness Tour?
If you’re not familiar with a wellness tour, you might want to be. This is when you travel for health and well-being reasons. Whether it is for your physical or mental health, the activities, place you go, and what you do determines whether you’re on a wellness tour or vacation compared to a normal one.
Any and all travel that is in pursuit of the person’s well-being is what is covered under a wellness tour and what you can get from it. It is working to provide the best overall health for your mind and body.
There are many vacations that come with a wellness resort, yoga retreat, or any other wellness-based resort or place that works specifically on your wellness. If you book a regular vacation, adding and doing specific things that have to do with your wellness is a great way to boost your vacation, make you feel your best, and get more from your time away from home.
Benefits of a Wellness Tour
There are several benefits that come from a wellness tour. If you’re considering going on one, then you want to make sure to take a look at all of these benefits to find out if this type of tour is right for you.
Get relaxation and rejuvenation
Healthy food choices
Exercise classes and spots
They offer something different from the regular vacations you can take
Preservation of natural resources for the area
Increase in jobs, opportunities, and revenue for the areas they operate in
Offering healthier excursions, you can do
Everyone is different and you might find that the benefits that come from a wellness tour are for you. This is a great way to work on your mind, body, and soul while being somewhere away from home. Opening up to the area and learning something new might just be good enough to make you want to take a wellness tour.
What is Included in a Wellness Tour?
Every single wellness tour is different, and each one comes with a plethora of events, activities, and excursions for you to take advantage of. However, if you want a bit more out of your time away then having an idea of what comes with a wellness tour might help you make a decision on whether these tours are right for you.
Healthier food options and choices
More exercise areas, rooms, and equipment
Mind-body practices and classes
Art and spiritual activities
Nature experiences
Connect with local people and their culture
Classes that include Pilates, yoga, or specialized exercises
Specialized treatments for a condition, symptom, ailment
Spiritual treatment
Open air and nature connection
Better access to care and the different care materials and products
Depending on what type of wellness traveler you are, you might like different things on this over another. However, they both come with any of the wellness tours you are choosing to go on. This means you can benefit from what they’re offering in the long run.
Best Destinations for Wellness Tours
There are some of the best places to visit for those who want to take a wellness tour. If you’re unsure of where to go or what to do; then take a look at one of these top destinations that come highly recommended.
Budapest, Hungary
Home to one of the best thermal spas throughout Europe, it is a must visit place that is high on the list. You want to make sure to stay at the St. George Hotel which is on a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tuscany, Italy
Beauty, indulgence, and much more come together in this quaint area that has a bit of everything for the visitor. Staying at Terme di Saturnia is recommended because it is the leading spa resort in the area and a must-visit. There are vineyards and olive groves for days, giving you plenty to take in and enjoy.
Lisbon, Portugal
Known for their pink clay, coffee, and massages that are infused with a lot more than this; this is the best place to get your skin treated in the best way. The Float in Spa is one of the most advanced floating systems in the world. It is worth a visit.
Prague, Czech Republic
The ideal destination for innovative spa treatments, you can find yourself enjoying all that comes with the antioxidant rich nectar that you submerge your body in. This happens at the Carlo IV Wellness & Spa. Drive down beautiful roads with the fresh, rich air open around you. Hills and plenty to see welcome you.
Bali, Indonesia
For years Bali has been a beacon to travelers looking to find themselves and dive deeper into their spiritual side. If you are seeking a complete wellness experience, there is no better destination than Bali. Immerse yourself in traditional healing ceremonies, rejuvenating activities, daily yoga, breathtaking sights, and nutritional organic chefs to help cleanse your body while you’re cleansing your soul.
Balance Your Harmony and Well Being
When you are choosing to go on a wellness tour, you are choosing to do the best that you can. Not just because of the great benefits it brings to your body, but all of the great benefits it brings to the area that you are going to be visiting.
When you are choosing a wellness tour, you’re choosing yourself. You are choosing to do more for your health and wellbeing. The experience alone is enough to get moving in the right direction. Do more on your tours and vacations when you choose to put wellness in front of your dreams of traveling the world.
Wellness Tours are Going to Continue to Grow
This is more than a trend and the way it seems; it is not going anywhere. They are currently on the rise, and the numbers do not look like they are going to slow down at any time. Many tourists are looking to get more out of their lives and by getting healthier and improving the quality of their lives; they’re able to do this. It is different from the normal vacations that everyone takes, which makes it an ideal way to do something different for you.
You choose where to go, and you can be the one who chooses what to do. You can plan and choose one of the many places that come highly recommended. Book your wellness tour today and make sure to get more for your well-being.
If you are ready to re-balance your harmony and energy; then book with one of the many top wellness destinations today!
Portugal has always been on my bucket list for a very long time for its unique mix of old-world traditions – rich history, some of the best Portuguese cuisines and port wines from Duoro valley, historic monasteries, Douro River, palaces and castles. I could not have picked any other company to travel with than Tauck Tours. Tauck is one of the most luxurious company out there that is all inclusive, stays at 5 star boutique hotels, luxurious stops on trips, out of this world cuisines, excellent service, no extra cost on any optional excursions and my favorite slow paced tour that caters mainly to seniors. I can tell you that I am nowhere close to being a senior but it was nice to be treated like a VIP on a Tauck tour. Portugal with Tauck really delivered above and beyond my expectations.
