Tag: at_tour_operator#3

Staff Reviews: Trafalgar Impressions of South America

By: Maya Keith CTA, Senior Travel Consultant

I decided to take on Impressions of South America that covered Brazil and Argentina. The journey through these two countries was remarkable and left a lasting impression.

Brazil

Day 1: Brazil
Welcome to the land of Samba and Sun.
I had a complimentary airport transfer. I missed the welcome dinner reception due to my late arrival, however the driver provided me with the program for the following day.

Day 2: Rio De Janeiro
8:30am: Morning trip to Sugarloaf Mountain a peak located in the city on the Guanabara
Bay and is 1299ft (about 395.94 m) above sea level. Traveled to the top by cable car to view
the beautiful panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.

The afternoon (1:30pm) was the optional tour to Santa Teresa however got canceled due to
the weather. We spent the afternoon exploring the world-famous Copacabana beautiful

beaches which were just across the road from the hotel. Shops and malls were not far
from the hotel.

Offered at 8:15pm was an optional excursion to the Samba show with dinner. The magical
show lasted 2 hours and covered all the major dances from all the Brazil regions.

Day 3: Rio De Janeiro
Morning (7:45am) – A visit to one of the New 7 wonders of the world – Christ the Redeemer.
The statue is 98feet tall and is 2,300ft (about 701.04 m) above sea level. Our journey to the
top took 20mins by train. City sightseeing tour on our way back to the hotel with a stop at
the Rio de Janeiro Cathedral known as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Sebastian aka
the Pyramid Catholic church. This church can hold up to 20,000 people. Then a quick stop
at Santa Teresa to visit the famous 215 Selaron steps which are known as the rainbow
stairs. We ended at Kopenhagen chocolate store to try their famous and unbelievably
delicious chocolate coffee.

1:30pm – An Optional Jeep Tour excursion:
A jeep excursion to the rainforest of Tijuca National Park for an ecological tour with a stop
at the botanical gardens to learn about the Brazilian rainforest. Tijuca national park is
known for its beautiful waterfalls, trees, and mountainous terrain.

7:00pm – Barbeque dinner at Churrascia, Fogo de Chao for a delicious Brazilian dinner.
Day 4:
Farewell Rio and off to Iguassu Falls Brazilian side:

7:45am: This morning was an early start as we had a flight to catch to Iguassu falls arriving
at 2pm.

3:30pm Arrival at Iguassu Falls National Park – Brazilian falls.
Welcome to one of the natural wonders of the world – Iguassu Falls. We spent the whole
afternoon exploring the Iguassu Falls National Park with its spectacular panoramic views.
The trail ended at the Devils throat where you can feel the power of the cascading water…

6:30pm: Crossed the border into Argentina. We arrived at our beautiful Argentinian hotel.
Evening was at leisure.

Argentina

The land of Tango and Nature
Day 5: Iguassu Falls Argentinian Side
Joined an experience to visit Argentinian indigenous tribe (Guarani Community of Fort
M’borore. They explained their way of life such as how they hunt for meat, culture, family
life, and how they obtain natural medicine from the forest. The M’borore tribe performed a
traditional song for us. After we visited their small market to shop for some handmade
crafts.

So why the Argentinian side of the falls? Iguassu falls Argentinian side brings us closer to
the roaring waterfall. The walking experience to the iconic Devil’s throat lead us directly to
the edge of the massive U-shaped waterfall where we experienced Iguassu’s falls
immense power up close. The walkways above the waterfalls provided beautiful
panoramic views. The base, which is the lower circuit offered more intimate and immersive views of the waterfalls.

The highlight of the day:
The afternoon was an optional boat ride excursion to take us into the spray of the Iguassu
falls for a thrilling experience. The boat took us right under the falls for an exhilarating
experience.

The evening was an optional experience to a local restaurant for some authentic
Argentinian food. This experience was hands on. I(we) really enjoyed the atmosphere, the
hands-on making Ginger cocktails, Empanadas, Local Tea (Mate) and desserts. ‘Wine
tasting was included and an educational experience regarding Argentinian culture, the
people, sports and life in Argentina.

Day 6:
We took a morning flight from Iguassu falls to Buenos Aires (Capital of Argentina). We
headed straight to our hotel for an early check. The rest of the day was at leisure. Most
attractions were within walking distance being that we were in the heart of the cultural
center at the historic Paza San Martin.

The highlight of the evening was dinner followed by The Tango Show which was hosted by
the same restaurant. The amazing show ended around 11pm. It was a night to remember.

Day 7:
This day was learning more about Bueno Aires’ rich History. Our first stop was to the Pink
Palace which is the president’s official workplace. A few meters away was the Famous
Cathedral where The Vatican’s Pope Francis was a Archbishop of Buenos Aires.
On our way to La Boca neighborhood, we passed the Famous Boca football team stadium
before arriving at the Beautiful La Boca neighborhood full of vibrant color buildings and
hops plus restaurants. The afternoon was at leisure or sign up for an optional excursion.

Day 8:
We departed for San Antonio de Areco, the heart of the Gaucho traditions in the Pampas
region. We had the privilege of visiting a Local Association for the disabled people which is
a local project sponsored by TTC. We observed how they make the traditional Alpargatas
shoes. Later was a Gaucho drawing class which was fun and educational.

Be my Guest Experience: Lunch was at a family-owned gaucho ranch where we watched
the owners show off their horsemanship. This just reminded us of Texas as half of the Bus
was from Texas. We returned to Buenos Aires for an evening at leisure.

Day 8:
We departed for San Antonio de Areco, the heart of the Gaucho traditions in the Pampas
region. We had the privilege of visiting a Local Association for the disabled people which is
a local project sponsored by TTC. We observed how they make the traditional Alpargatas
shoes. Later was a Gaucho drawing class which was fun and educational.
Be my Guest Experience: Lunch was at a family-owned gaucho ranch where we watched
the owners show off their horsemanship. This just reminded us of Texas as half of the Bus
was from Texas. We returned to Buenos Aires for an evening at leisure.

Day 9:
Our exiting adventure was coming to an end. We had all morning and afternoon to
explore Buenos Aires on our own so we ventured to the heart of the city where we had an
opportunity to experience the once-in-a-lifetime event of changing the Guards.

We bid farewell to Buenos Aires which a free transfer back to the airport.

Staff Reviews: Best of the Canyonland with Trafalgar

By: Jerry Steves, Travel Consultant

Beginning at the Sheraton in Denver, we joined another tour that was operating the previous week. Had a Welcome Dinner at Maggiano’s where the old and new passengers got to know one another. It was a great group of people, lots of fun. I should mention that we had a free breakfast every morning.

After a delicious breakfast the next morning, we left Denver and went past Lookout Mountain and the site where Buffalo Bill is buried. Next, we went through the Eisenhower Tunnel, seeing snow on the Rocky Mountains. We stopped in Vail, which was quite charming and chilly (but still not open for the season), then continued into Bloodwood? Canyon and the Hot Springs.

Next we drove into Palisade where we stopped at the Field+ Fork farm for lunch and for a tour of the farm with Jessica and Scott. This farm is self-sustaining and completely organic. Next we drove through Grand Junction for a stop at the rest area in Utah before arriving in Moab.

We checked into the Best Western in Moab where we would stay for 2 nights while exploring the surrounding parks. Our Tour Director Randy gave us a range of restaurants near the hotel so we could have dinner on our own. The most bizarre thing happened before dinner -the power in half of Moab went out, including our hotel! Many of the restaurants were without power so it was a little challenging. Thankfully, it was restored after about 3 hours.

The next morning we headed to Arches National Park, which was breathtaking! Stopped at the Balance Rock, then to the Delicate Arch Viewpoint and the Windows and walked all around. We stopped at the Visitors Center for a break before heading back to Moab for lunch.

That evening we had a cowboy style dutch oven dinner, before getting on a boat to experience the Canyonlands by Night light show. The Canyonland walls were lit up with lights and sounds. When it was over, the sky cleared and we could see an abundance of stars! It was magical.

The next morning we left Moab on the way to Mesa Verde. We stopped at Walmart to pick up lunch, which was nice because we could pick up any other needed items while we were there. There was a picnic area at Mesa Verde and the weather was perfect! We got to see some of the cliff dwellings up close before walking over to the Sun Temple. We also viewed Cliff Palace, and Spruce Treehouse, among other dwellings. We lunched and shopped then made the drive to Goulding’s Lodge, where we stayed in Monument Valley. The views from our hotel were awe-inspiring! That night we had dinner at the hotel.

The following morning we set off on open-air 4 WD vehicles (Randy called them Jeeps) to head straight to the monuments we could see from our windows. It was very cold out, but this was one of the coolest parts of the trip. After that we went to Cameron Trading Post where we had the best shopping! We had delicious Navajo Tacos for lunch. Next we drove to the Grand Canyon to spend a night on the South Rim. We had a Farewell Dinner at the Thunderbird Lodge. The skies were clear for star-gazing.

Now for the COOLEST part of the trip. That morning we were coached over to the Grand Canyon airport. There were 3 options, 2 were helicopter rides, but we opted for the airplane tour. It was absolutely amazing and definitely the highlight of our trip!

After that we headed to Las Vegas, where we drove over the Hoover Dam on the way. We stayed at the Horseshoe and were on our own for this last part of the trip. Not part of Trafalgar but we had dinner at the Caho Wabo, then brunch at the Eiffel Tower before heading to the airport. It was a great trip!

What Is Your Travel Style?

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.

Everything you need to experience on your first trip to Spain

Savour wine and tapas in a sun-dappled cafe by the coast. Soak in the local nightlife to the sound of the flamenco guitar. Stroll through the mosaic-decorated halls of an unfinished masterpiece. This is Spain. The sunny jewel in Europe’s mainland is welcoming back fully vaccinated visitors from the UK, EU and North America. With travel at the edge of our fingertips, it seems only fitting that we pull together some of our favourite things to eat, drink, do, and see for an unforgettable first trip to Spain. 

Weave your way through mosaic landscapes & Gothic architecture
It’s tough not to be awestruck by the beautiful century-old architecture nestled within the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. In this labyrinth of cobbled lanes and squares, you’ll discover the remains of the city’s Roman wall, the Jewish quarter, as well as several standout landmarks from as far back as medieval times. Even if you’re a history buff or an architectural expert, the Gothic Quarter is still undoubtedly best experienced through the seasoned hands of a local guide – helping you dive head-first into Barcelona’s cultural timeline.

The first trip to Spain isn’t complete without stepping into the world of Antoni Gaudi either. A colourful combination of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles, the Sagrada Familia is a magnificent – and still unfinished – Roman Catholic basilica which has become iconic to the city’s skyline. Take a few hours to wander around the building and admire the whimsical maze-like landscaping surrounding the church, which has been described simultaneously as “one of the most hideous buildings in the world” by George Orwell, and the “greatest piece of creative architecture” by famed architect Louis Sullivan.


Celebrate the dances of Spain

How does getting swept up in the passion and frenzy of a live flamenco dance sound? On your first trip to Spain, spend at least one night soaking in Seville’s nightlife: listening to the flamboyant strums of the guitar, the rhythmic clapping distinctive only to flamenco, and the lilting voices of the singers. A night to remember in the city famous for the dance itself.

Relax on the sun-kissed shores of the Costa del Sol

Feel the sun’s rays warm your shoulders as you stroll along one of Spain’s most famous coastlines. Here, there’s something for everyone. Looking for that golden holiday tan? Sip on a refreshing drink from one of the nearby cafes and bask in the midday sun. More of an adventurous type? Take a short trip to nearby Malaga – a city famed for its hiking spots and art museums. Need a cool down on your trip to Spain? Plenty of open-air beachside restaurants are just waiting to welcome you with open arms. There, you can feast on a cuisine inspired by Spanish, Jewish or Arabic traditions. That’s everything from pescaito frito – breaded and fried fish – or gazpacho – a cold tomato soup perfect for a sun-beaten day.

And finally… admire world-famous masterpieces in the Spanish capital

Take a guided tour of all Madrid has to offer, starting with the famed Prado Museum on your first trip to Spain. Inside these halls, some of the most striking pieces from a long history of European art are displayed. We’re talking collections from Velazquez himself, Goya’s Black Paintings (as created in the twilight of his life), and Bosch’s Garden of Earthly Delights. From there, the city is yours to dive into. Our personal favorite way to end the day, however? Digging into a hot calamari sandwich whilst doing a spot of people watching in Buen Retiro Park. If that doesn’t say la buena vida, what does? 

Review: Greek Island Hopper With Trafalgar

By: Vivian Vo, Travel Consultant

Why Greece? And I replied, “Why not!” The history, beaches, and activities just to list a few. Why go on a tour and specifically a tour with Trafalgar? Simply, the ease of not having to plan anything, guided by an expert with over 10 years of experience, and the accommodation are first class. So let’s get straight to what I have experienced while Greek Island Hopper with Trafalgar tour.

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