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Cruises, Hospitality, Destinations Implement Responsible, Sustainable Tourism Practices

April 21, 2026 krubin723 Leave a comment

In Dominica, *known as “the Nature Island of the Caribbean”*, *visitors can join rare, responsibly guided encounters with resident sperm whales through Secret Bay’s Swimming with the Whales & Marine Safari (photo: Dominica)*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Travelers are increasingly mindful of their responsibility in preserving and protecting the people, the environment, and the ecosystems of the places they visit and are actively seeking out travel entities – transportation, hospitality, dining, attractions, and destinations – that incorporate sustainable, responsible practices.

Here’s a sampling of how cruises and resorts are not just implementing but also modeling conservation, preservation and regenerative practices, while the revenue from tourism helps fund and sustain these programs.

Cruising

Havila Voyages, the Norwegian coastal operator, recently completed a historic 12-day voyage aboard its Havila Polaris, powered by biogas, reducing CO₂ emissions by more than 90%. Combined with the fleet’s advanced battery systems which enable ships to sail for up to four hours with zero emissions, Havila is demonstrating that cleaner, quieter travel at sea is ready to scale for the future. Silent, low-emission cruising allows access to fragile areas like the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord without environmental harm, while journeys along Norway’s 34-port coastal route connect travelers to authentic communities through more than 70 immersive excursions, from dogsledding to Sámi cultural experiences. Its “Havila Food Stories” program partners with local producers and serves seasonal, à la carte menus that have reduced food waste to just 69 grams per guest per day, cutting more than 60 tons annually. With ships designed for future hydrogen conversion and a goal of fully climate-neutral operations by 2028, Havila Voyages offers a compelling example of how responsible travel and bucket-list experiences, from Northern Lights viewing to the Midnight Sun, can go hand in hand.

*The Boat Company donates proceeds from its Alaska expeditionary cruises toward conservation initiatives.*

While sustainable tourism focuses on minimizing the impacts travelers have on a community or ecosystem, regenerative tourism goes a step further with a focus on making destinations better than they were. That has been the mission of The Boat Company– one of the world’s only non-profit cruise companies – since its founding 46 years ago. All of The Boat Company’s proceeds (beyond operating expenses) from its week-long expeditionary cruises between Sitka and Juneau through Alaska’s Inside Passage are reinvested back into conservation initiatives (theboatcompany.org, 360-697-4242).

Boating and Biking Egypt: The Nile’s Hidden Banks: This tour blends slow, low-impact travel with active exploration, exploring by e-bike small villages and immense monuments rarely seen and sailing aboard an all-suite ship: https://www.boatbiketours.com/tours/egypt-the-nile-a-journey-to-ancient-wonders/]

Hospitality

*At Finolhu in the Maldives, guests can join the Coral Reef Propagation Project, ocean clean-ups, Citizen Science programs and megafauna dives (photo: Finolhu)*

Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Baa Atoll in the Maldives, Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort is committed to safeguarding one of the world’s most delicate and vibrant marine ecosystems. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere reserve in 2011, Baa Atoll is one of the most biodiverse marine environments on earth – home to over 250 coral species, more than 1,200 fish species, and the world’s largest known aggregation of manta rays at nearby Hanifaru Bay. Its location above a deep ocean channel creates nutrient-rich currents that attract whale sharks, dolphins and sea turtles year-round, making it one of the few places on the planet with this level of protected aquatic abundance. As part of a UNESCO-protected biosphere, Finolhu is largely self-sufficient. Guests can do their part in making a difference by joining the Coral Reef Propagation Project, led by the resort’s resident marine biologist, which aims to rebuild the resort’s reef; ocean clean-ups conducted in partnership with Parley for the Oceans; and Citizen Science programs and megafauna dives, which help track individual animals and contribute to ongoing marine research.

*Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlan Golf & Spa Resort plays an active role in conservation through its on-site turtle sanctuary (photo: Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlan)*

The first Hyatt-branded property in Mazatlán, Mexico, Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort, has earned the prestigious Platinum Beach Certification for its sustainably maintained shoreline and partnership with local, environmentally responsible suppliers. The resort has also implemented water-saving technologies including aerators and automatic flushers, energy-efficient systems like heat recovery equipment and LED lighting, reduced plastic use, and landscaping with endemic plants to support local biodiversity. The resort plays an active role in conservation through its on-site turtle sanctuary, where guests can participate in the protection and preservation of these remarkable animals.

Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort, Rivera Nayarit, Mexico, is an eco-conscious, adults-only, all-suite all-inclusive resort. Nestled between the golden sands and surf-friendly beaches of Banderas Bay and the lush Sierra Madre Mountains, it offers an unplugged, nature-focused getaway. On property, an organic garden and farm supply fresh herbs, produce, and eggs to the resort’s restaurants, reinforcing its sustainable ethos. The resort also supports the local community through its “World of Care” program, donating food and supplies to Wet Nose Rescue and caring for rescued animals, among them, Joker, the resort’s adopted dog and mascot. In addition, the hotel sponsors a local primary school, with team members supporting students through gifts, monthly visits, and meaningful activities.

*El Cielo Resort & Winery pairs luxurious vineyard accommodations with a commitment to sustainable hospitality (photo: El Cielo Resort)*

Located in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe, B.C., El Cielo Resort & Winery pairs luxurious vineyard accommodations with a commitment to sustainable hospitality. Guests stay in Tuscany-inspired villas, enjoy farm-to-table dining, and explore the property’s organic vineyards while supporting eco-conscious practices woven throughout the resort experience. Sustainability initiatives include pioneering solar energy as one of the first wineries in the region to install solar panels, cultivating grapes without synthetic pesticides to preserve soil health and biodiversity, and utilizing trained Harris’ Hawks as a natural, chemical-free vineyard protection. The resort also captures rainwater in custom-built reservoirs to support sustainable irrigation and create habitats for migratory birds, alongside additional environmentally mindful touches such as lightweight wine bottles, natural corks, water treatment systems, and LED lighting designed to reduce light pollution.

*Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Dominica, known as “the Nature Island of the Caribbean” (photo: Dominica)*

Dominica, the “Nature Island of the Caribbean,” continues to lead the way in eco-conscious travel, integrating sustainability into everyday life. Offering a balance of preservation and experience, Dominica is a model for sustainable tourism in action. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Morne Trois Pitons National Park, engage in conservation efforts and discover the island’s rich cultural heritage. Through a blend of community-led conservation, innovative eco-luxury and immersive nature experiences, the island offers travelers meaningful ways to connect with and support the environment. Visitors can take part in hands-on conservation experiences like sea turtle nesting season at Rosalie Bay and join rare, responsibly guided encounters with resident sperm whales through Secret Bay’s Swimming with the Whales & Marine Safari, supported by the world’s first marine protected area dedicated to the species. Across the island, eco-forward properties like Coulibri Ridge and Secret Bay continue to redefine sustainable luxury, complemented by low-impact activities such as guided e-bike tours and cultural experiences like the Roseau History Tour; Sea Cliff Eco Cottages’ offers “garden-to-glass” Cocoa Martini, crafted using upcycled cacao husks in partnership with a local chocolate producer. Dominica also has one of the Caribbean’s most diverse and untouched trail systems. Its annual Hike Fest invites travelers to explore iconic landscapes, from Boeri Lake and Chemin Létang to the legendary Boiling Lake, through guided hikes taking place on Saturdays in May.

*Hotel Belmar in Costa Rica’s cloud forest (photo: Hotel Belmar)*

High in Costa Rica’s cloud forest where regeneration is visible and measurable, Hotel Belmar is a family-owned icon. Finca Madre Tierra, recognized as Costa Rica’s first carbon-neutral farm, supplies eggs, dairy, shade-grown coffee, sugarcane, and seasonal produce to the hotel. Guests can visit milk cows, learn cheese-making, pick coffee, and press sugarcane, deepening their connection with Monteverde’s agricultural traditions. On property, Belmar closes the loop through composting and a biodigester that turns organics into clean gas, making farm‑to‑table‑to‑farm a daily practice. Sustainability in practice: Belmar’s bio-intensive garden plots feed regenerative dining, garden-to-glass mixology that replaces bottled inputs, a plastic-free bar program, environmentally preferable products, and an air‑dry laundry solarium that reduces energy consumption. Rooms and shared spaces rely on beautifully crafted furnishings, supporting regional makers while celebrating Monteverde’s woodworking heritage and its long tradition of forest-based craft. In the forest, SAVIA employs local forest mobility experts, uses tree-friendly anchoring with high-tension ropes and cables rather than bolts, and offers themed expeditions from dawn birding to nightfall canopy study, creating paid interpretive work while keeping impact light in a rare ecosystem known for exceptional biodiversity.

Guests can also participate in programming like Monteverde Exploration with local guides and farm-to-table experience which generate income to farmers, educators, and naturalists and sends guests home with transferable skills in composting, pickling and planning. Every stay helps to underwrite a year-round economy tied to food, music, ecology, and science, supporting both the local community and the surrounding forest. Multigenerational ties to local farmers, craftspeople, guides, and musicians help sustain the region’s distinctive culture, creating a shared ecosystem of livelihoods that strengthens the surrounding community while helping to protect the cloud forest’s special environment. The hotel’s Artist Residency Program further expands this cultural exchange, inviting artists to spend time on the property and develop new work inspired by the cloud forest (hotelbelmar.net).

*Calabash Cove Resort & Spa integrates regenerative, low-impact operations into its boutique, adults‑only experience on Saint Lucia’s coast (photo: Calabash Cove Resort)*

Set on a secluded hillside overlooking Bonaire Bay along Saint Lucia’s biodiverse northwestern coast, Calabash Cove Resort & Spa integrates regenerative, low-impact operations into its boutique, adults‑only experience. The resort maintains a strict plastic-free policy, eliminating disposable containers and using recycled-material lunch boxes and biodegradable straws. All hot water is solar‑heated, lighting relies on LEDs, and an on-site water‑treatment plant recycles water for irrigation. Guests receive a free reusable aluminum bottle on arrival, with free still or sparkling water refills throughout their stay to eliminate disposable bottles. Local farms supply produce and seasonal vegetarian and vegan menus highlight Saint Lucia’s ingredients while reducing the footprint of higher‑impact foods. Kitchen oils are collected and repurposed to heat laundry water, further reducing external energy demand.

Sustainability in practice: Closed‑loop practices underpin daily operations. Grass cuttings are mulched and composted, kitchen scraps are sent to a local pig farmer, and rainwater is collected for property use. Timers on pool pumps help reduce energy demand and mosquito fogging has been discontinued to allow local birdlife to flourish. Marine stewardship includes reef and turtle‑protection training led by Saint Lucia’s Fisheries Department, where staff learn to identify nesting periods, safely relocate eggs, and tag previously untracked turtles to support long‑term conservation monitoring. Landscaping is maintained by on‑staff gardeners who prioritize native vegetation and habitats, supporting wildlife that thrives along the cove’s protected shoreline. The resort’s intimate 26‑room scale keeps impact low while enabling meaningful guest participation through beach cleanups, nature-positive activities, and plant-forward dining (calabashcove.com).

*Alaia Belize guests can explore the ancient Maya site of Xunantunich on curated, conservation-minded excursions (photo: Alaia Belize)*

Set on 20 oceanfront acres on Ambergris Caye, Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection offers an upscale base for exploring one of the Caribbean’s most ecologically diverse destinations. Guests can snorkel the protected Hol Chan Marine Reserve, visit Caye Caulker, and explore the ancient Maya site of Xunantunich, all through curated, conservation-minded excursions.

*Sustainable forestry practices at Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand (photo: Banyan Tree Phuket)*

Sustainability and community-driven practices are woven throughout Banyan Tree Phuket, Thailand, nestled between white sandy beaches and coconut groves. Guests can participate in the resort’s sustainable initiatives, such as a visit to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, sustainable beach cleaning and cooking classes that promote sustainability and community engagement.

*Six Senses Laamu is celebrating the impact of its Sea Hub of Environmental Learning marine education and conservation center (photo: Six Senses Laamu)*

Six Senses Laamu is celebrating the impact of its Sea Hub of Environmental Learning in Laamu, the “SHELL.” This2,336-square-foot marine education and conservation center offers guests and local communitiesimmersive experiences with the local marine environment, including coral regeneration, seagrass conservation, and sea turtle research. Through the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI), the SHELL hosts a dedicated team of marine biologists working with partner NGOs including Manta Trust, Blue Marine Foundation, and Olive Ridley Project. Together they have grown over 10,000 baby corals across five species, released more than 12 million coral larvae onto the resort’s house reef, and conducted genetic studies of sea turtles.The team has also cataloged over1,000 turtles and 140 manta rays in Laamu Atoll, contributing to scientific research and publications.

*Six Senses Kanuhura launched Kanuhura Coral Census (photo: Six Senses Kanuhura)*

Six Senses Kanuhura launched Kanuhura Coral Census, thefirst long-term 3D reef monitoring program implemented by a resort globally. It usesadvanced imaging and AI to create living digital replicas of coral reefs, offering a deeper understanding of reef health, biodiversity, and resilience. These insights help guide a more mindful, long-term approach to reef restoration, ensuring that the surrounding ecosystems continue to thrive for generations to come.

*Imperial Hotel Kyoto aligns heritage with sustainability (photo: Imperial Hotels)*

Imperial Hotels across Japan’s heritage cities – Tokyo, Kamikochi, Osaka, Kyoto – align heritage with sustainability. Imperial Hotel Tokyo has reduced plastics by 87.7 percent versus 2019, reducing 13.9 tons by shifting amenities to bamboo, wood, and biomass and replacing PET with paper cartons; it operates on 100 percent CO2-free electricity and advances circularity through recycling loops that turn coffee grounds into cattle feed and repurchase the resulting milk, while used cooking oil becomes Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The Osaka hotel reinforces circularity by turning kitchen waste into fertilizer and buying back vegetables grown with it and supports EV drivers with charging stations.

Imperial Hotel Kyoto, which opened March 5, 2026 inside the restored Yasaka Kaikan in Gion, preserves its cultural fabric through adaptive repurposing and reusing more than 16,000 tiles to reduce construction impact while sustaining local craftsmanship. The property supports living culture through performances. Craft atelier visits, including an imperial doll workshop, ensure fees reach local artisans. Community engagement includes food education in schools, cleanup activities in Osaka and Kamikochi; disaster support agreements in Tokyo and Osaka provide shelter for stranded residents and travelers. Imperial Hotel Kamikochi runs on net zero CO2 energy using regional hydropower and offsets, encourages refills with a lobby spring water fountain, and has reduced plastics by roughly 90 percent through amenity changes. Conservation work with the Kamikochi Beautification Association supports stewardship of the national park.

*The Lake House on Canandaigua is the only hotel in New York State to receive Beyond Green certification (photo: The Lake House)*

The Lake House on Canandaigua, a luxury hotel in the Finger Lakes, has earned a Beyond Green certification – the only hotel in New York State to receive the recognition – joining a global portfolio of hotels recognized for advancing sustainability, environmental stewardship and meaningful community connection. Operated by Preferred Travel Group, Beyond Green is a curated collection of hotels and resorts committed to responsible travel worldwide. Member properties are vetted against more than 50 sustainability indicators aligned with the best global practices and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, recognizing places where sustainability is deeply embedded in both philosophy and practice (lakehousecanandaigua.com).

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Ecotourism, Experiential Travel, Sustainable Travel

Mindful Travelers Seek Out Responsible, Sustainable Travel Providers

April 15, 2026 krubin723 Leave a comment

Destinations are protecting their cultural and natural resources by imposing strict regulations and limits on guided safaris through its animal preserves, such as the Kahna Tiger Sanctuary in India © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Travel “opens our minds, connects us, and makes the world a smaller place,” notes Sustainable Travel International. “Done well, tourism is a force for good that lifts communities out of poverty, improves living standards in developing countries and safeguards the world’s natural and cultural treasures.”

On the other hand, “Tourism also accounts for 8% of global emissions, litters the planet with plastic, threatens species, and overburdens communities.”

A growing cadre of travelers are mindful of their own responsibility and seek out travel companies, hotels, transportation and destinations that make responsible, sustainable practices their mission, infused into their operation and their mindset.

Tour operators who practice sustainable, responsible travel in their operations and their policies are careful to limit their carbon footprint, avoid plastics and pollutants, hire locals and buy local, are respectful of local culture, heritage and environment, and often give back a portion of the tour price to the community or assist and support community projects like schools, water, and health clinics. Wildlife, nature and safari companies show great care in how they interface with animals and the ecosystem, limiting interactions, and often sponsor conservation projects. And some are designed to engage the travelers actively in the projects or research.

Galapagos is the poster child for the necessity for responsible, sustainable eco-tourism and a model for how to practice it, limiting the number of permits available to be on the Inca Trail or access Machu Picchu © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Destinations are also making sure their desire for economic development and progress does not kill the golden goose that make their places so desirable to visit, so take action to regulate and limit tourism.

Responsible travelers can make more informed choices of tour companies, hotels, cruiseships, transport modes and service providers. They gain first-hand understanding of the pressures on communities and ecosystems, and become ambassadors to advocate for environmental protection at home. An added benefit is that they also bring these ideas and practices to their own home and community and become advocates for the lawmakers and policy makers.

*Concerned about the ill-effects of overtourism, Peru strictly limits the number of people who can be on the Inca Trail or access Machu Picchu on any day © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Here is a list of widely respected sustainable, responsible travel companies:

IntrepidTravel.com specializes in environmentally, culturally and socially responsible tours for small groups in destinations worldwide.

G Adventures, based in Canada, is renowned for trekking, safaris, ecotourism, cultural tours around the world and for small group tours that prioritize local economic benefits and community-based projects.

Natural Habitat Adventures partners with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to offer specialized, eco-conscious wildlife tours, including polar bear and Galápagos trips.

And Beyond specializes in luxury, conservation-focused tourism in Africa, Asia and South America.

Much Better Adventures focuses on adventure travel that supports local communities and contributes to habitat conservation, with 5% of revenue going to conservation funds.

Exodus Adventure Travels offers trips that often include “citizen science” opportunities, such as collecting water samples for research.

Global Exchange offers socially responsible Reality Tours to 30 developing countries worldwide.

Journeys International is a US-based family-owned global adventure travel company specializing in guided cross-cultural explorations, nature safaris, treks and eco-tours in remote corners of the globe.

Tribes Travel is a UK-based travel company offering holidays and safaris that operate on fair trade and responsible travel principles.

World Expeditions, based in the UK (with offices in USA), offers trekking and small group adventure holidays, based on responsible and sustainable travel principles

Much Better Adventures focuses on adventure travel that supports local communities and contributes to habitat conservation, with 5% of revenue going to conservation funds.

European Safari Company operates in partnership with Rewilding Europe to fund conservation through tourism.

White Desert provides luxury travel to Antarctica using sustainable aviation fuel.

Slow Travel

Parks & Trail NY highlights its advocacy for repurposing obsolete rail lines and canalways for multi-use recreation with an annual 8-day, 400-mile Cycle the Erie biking/camping trip, from Buffalo to Albany © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Bike tours are not only friendly to the environment, but are stimulating to mind and body and bring you to places you would otherwise never see and interactions you would never otherwise have. Among our favorites: BikeTours.com; Discovery Bicycle Tours; Wilderness Voyageurs; BoatBikeTours; Backroads; Trek Travel; Exodus Adventure Travels; Duvine; and Butterfield & Robinson.

Advocates such as Parks & Trails NY (ptny.org), which operates the annual 8-day, 400-mile Cycle the Erie biking/camping trip (this year taking place July 11-16, https://cycle.ptny.org/cycle-the-erie-canal/annual-bike-tour) but you can bike the 356-mile Erie Canalway between Albany and Buffalo anytime (https://eriecanalway.org/explore/cycling), and several tour operators offer an inn-to-inn program) and Rails to Trails Conservancy (railtotrails.org), help promote recreational multi-use trails.

Rails to Trails Conservancy can help you plan your next outing with detailed trail guides. RTC’s Hall of Fame guidebook features 39 trails from all across the country; you can also reserve a copy of the NEW Great American Rail-Trail^® guidebook featuring 50 trails along the route of the nation’s first cross-country multiuse trail, which, when completed, will span 3,700 miles between Washington, D.C. and Washington State. A hike, bike, ride or roll along the Great American Rail-Trail—or any of our nation’s incredible trails—is a perfect way to experience trails during America’s 250th year.

Rails to Trails Conservancy promotes the use of multi-use trails like its award-winning Great Allegheny Passage trail, and is presently working to link 3,700 miles of trails into the Great American Rail-Trail © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Each guidebook includes all you need to plan your next trail adventure, including maps, detailed trail descriptions, photos, and trail use notes, whether you want a forest path, a rugged mountain trail, an urban exploration, or a trek along a coastline. Nationwide, over 40,000 miles of trails exist for walking, biking, rolling, running (railstotrails.org)

RTC is promoting Celebrate Trails Day, April 25, 2026, and invites everyone to be a part of this annual springtime celebration by joining an event or simply spending the day your way on a trail near you. RTC is also celebrating 40 years and decades of progress made for America’s trails. Need celebration inspiration?

While Rails to Trails and Parks & Trails NY advocate for re-purposing abandoned and obsolete rail lines, rail travel is very much a treasured experience that exemplifies sustainable travel.

Rail travel: Consider a vacation by rail – Europe is easy to get around (RailEurope, Eurail and Vacations by Rail); Canada (VIA Rail, canadiantreainvacations.com), Great Rail Journeys (greatrail.com) and Japan is famous for its scenic rail routes, Bullet train and excellent train system (https://www.japan.travel/en/see-and-do/scenic-railways/).

*Japan’s rail network is legendary (photo: Japan Rail)*

Iconic rail journeys include Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe) famous as a top luxury train, it features 1920s-vintage Art Deco cars and travels between cities like London, Paris, and Venice); Rocky Mountaineer(Canada); Glacier Express(Switzerland) known as the “slowest express train in the world,” it crosses 291 bridges and 91 tunnels between Zermatt and St. Moritz; Rovos Rail(Africa) luxury travel, particularly the Pretoria to Victoria Falls route); Maharajas’ Express(India); Belmond Royal Scotsman(Scotland);Trans-Siberian Railway(Russia/Asia) classic route spans from Moscow to Vladivostok); Andean Explorer(Peru), South America’s first luxury sleeper train, traveling from Cusco to Arequipa, offering high-altitude views.

*The Belmond Royal Scotsman (photo: Belmond)*

Also: Bernina Express(Switzerland/Italy), picturesque, known for traversing steep grades and dramatic, icy mountain landscapes); Eastern & Oriental Express(Southeast Asia),travels through Malaysia and Thailand; Seven Stars in Kyushu(Japan), a luxury train traversing the Kyushu region.

Amtrak Vacations (amtrakvacations.com) offers packages along its famous routes:

California Zephyr: Travels between Chicago and San Francisco, widely considered one of the most beautiful trips in North America.

Coast Starlight: A scenic route connecting Seattle and Los Angeles along the Pacific coast.

Empire Builder: Follows the path of Lewis and Clark from Chicago through the Pacific Northwest.

Grand Canyon Railway: A historic railway bringing travelers from Arizona to the edge of the Grand Canyon, operated by Xanterra Travel Collection (Xanterra.com)

*America has our share of historic and scenic train routes, like the Grand Canyon Railway, operated by Xanterra Travel Collection © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Voluntourism

Earthwatch connects people with scientists worldwide to participate, collaborate and contribute in environmental research, while empowering them with knowledge they can apply to conserve the planet (earthwatch.org/expeditions/browse). Examples:

Amazon Riverboat Exploration: Help conserve wildlife within the Amazon Basin as you search for pink river dolphins, macaws, and other iconic species, on the Yarapa River, Peru (8-11 days, from $4,795)

Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge: Join scientists studying the effects of climate change in the polar bear capital of the world in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada (11 days, from $4995)

Conserving Wild Bees and Other Pollinators of Costa Rica: Help study bees, hummingbirds, and pollinators critical to ecological health. 7 days (from $3995), San Luis de Monteverde, Costa Rica

Discovering Ancient Societies in Portugal: an archaeological adventure in Muge, Salvaterra de Magos, Santarém, Portugal (7+ days, from $4495)

Browse 2026 Earthwatch expeditions (click “View Dates and Join”to find a departure that works for you. Contact inquiries@earthwatchexpeditions.com to book;2026 booking inquiries are being handled by Natural Habitat Adventures (https://www.nathab.com/).

Biosphere Expeditions is an award-winning, non-profit organization that makes it possible for ordinary people to join scientists in the field doing hands-on research in marine, mountain, and tropical ecosystems. Examples of 2026 expedition opportunities: Azores: Whales, dolphins, and turtles; Sweden: Brown bear monitoring; Maldives/Oman: Coral reef and marine conservation; Tien Shan (Kyrgyzstan): Snow leopard research; South Africa: Leopard and biodiversity monitoring. The expeditions are open to everyone, regardless of age, background, or prior experience and range from a weekend to several weeks. Two-thirds of the fee goes to the conservation project. (https://www.biosphere-expeditions.org/)

More sources to find responsible, sustainable travel and ecotourism experiences:

Transitions Abroad (www.transitionsabroad.com/listings/travel/responsible/ecowebsites.shtml)

Responsible Travel International, sustainabletravel.org

Planeta.com features news, articles, an eco-travel directory, and recommended reads.

Seven Tips for Responsible Hiking In Moab’s Fragile Backcountry

*Hiking in Arches National Park. Moab Adventure Center advises hikers on their own responsibility to preserve the fragile landscape © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

MOAB, UT— Hiking the vast wilderness of multicolored rock and sand surrounding Moab, Utah, is the most accessible and popular activity for visitors to the region. Thanks to the stewardship of local agencies, associations and responsible tour operators such as the Moab Adventure Center, over 1,000 miles of diverse trails are available, most leading to unparalleled vistas, iconic arches and overlooks.

While scanning the horizon for yet another breathtaking geological masterpiece, hikers are urged to respect where they stand – on trails lacing through a fragile environment of cryptobiotic soil. It is the foundation for most all desert plant life.

“Off-trail footsteps can damage the crust’s living organisms for many decades,” stressed Kam Wixom, former guide and current Marketing Director for Moab Adventure Center.

To help secure this fragile eco system, Wixom offers seven eco-friendly tips to protect the environment when exploring afoot.

Avoid campfires in the wild that can quickly escalate into wildfires that result in devastating consequences for the area’s fauna and flora. Instead, make your campfire in areas specifically designated for them.

Plan your routes carefully, stay on established trails and let others know of your backcountry plans and destinations.

Wear natural sunscreen. If you plan to take a dip in a stream or waterhole along the way, remember, some commercial sunscreen ingredients can be very damaging to the fauna and flora. Consider sun-protective clothing so you don’t need sunscreen at all.

Leave no trace. Trash is out-of-place and unsightly plus animals may mistake it for food. As certain items decay, they may pollute the surrounding soil or water, creating a catastrophic knock-on effect for the entire ecosystem.

Choose eco-friendly gear. As Charlotte Cross, a lifestyle writer at Essay Roo and Lia Help tells us: “choosing to purchase sustainable and eco-friendly hiking gear supports and encourages sustainability within the field.” Utilizing clothing and gear made from recycled materials further reduces your environmental impact.

Save on energy by using solar chargers and solar-powered items such as flashlights and lamps.

Ditch the bottled water that correlates to millions of tons of single-use plastic. Instead, buy reusable water bottles that will keep everything cooler and fresher for longer periods than plastic bottles.

People with pets visiting the Moab region are invited to use Moab’s pet-friendly trails and remember to use a leash and carry out pet excrement.

Moab Adventure Center’s Tours into Arches National Park include guided hikes suitable for all ages:

Arches National Park Guided Morning Tour: A four-hour adventure including VIP park pass with timed entry reservation, replete with expertise of professional guide.

Arches National Park Guided Sunset Tour: Arches at its most magical in golden hour light and with fewer crowds. In this four-hour adventure guides bring the landscape to life with their fascinating stories.

Private guided hiking in Arches National Park and surrounding region can be also arranged.

Follow this link to the Top Hikes in Moab as handpicked by local guides.

To learn more about trail hiking, visit MoabAdventureCenter.com and sign up for a free Insider’s Guide. To explore trip options and book a hiking adventure, visit www.moabadventurecenter.com or call 435-259-7019, 866-904-1163.

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Adventure Travel, Biking Tours, Cultural travel, Ecotourism, Historic Places, Museums and Exhibits, Outdoors Adventures, Places of History

Discovering Cambodia’s Angkor Archeological Park, Among the World’s Most Fabulous Monument Complexes

September 16, 2025 krubin723

The dramatic sunset scene of the warrior statues on the Tonle Om Gate bridge outside the Preah Khan temple on our Discovery Bicycle Tours four-day Siem Reap, Cambodia pre-tour © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Today – technically the third day of our four-day Discovery Bicycle Tours Cambodia pre-tour in Siem Reap – is our first real bike ride, planned for 36 miles. We pick up our bikes at the tourist office where we also pick up our passes for the national historic sites, and cycle right into the Angkor Archeological Park. We cycle on the Angkor Bikeway and hidden trails through the ruins and forest of Angkor. (Calista Phillips, our Discovery Bicycle Tours guide, and I have already acquired our passes on the first evening when we went to see the sunset at Phnom Bakheng; the three-day pass allows for three, nonconsecutive days of visits. Discovery purchases our tickets and reimburses me the $62 I spent.)

*Biking lets us experience the sights, sounds and feeling of Siem Reap’s countryside © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

We bike on country lanes with rice paddies and fields on either side, seeing homes with thatch roofs, water buffalo. Our guide, Ta, shows us a cashew nut as it is plucked from the tree, the outer layer opened releasing a noxious acid; and the abandoned skin of a snake.

*Biking lets us experience the sights, sounds and feeling of Siem Reap’s countryside and how people live © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

What feels like 10 of the miles (though probably less), is riding through a thick layer of sand (like skiing on ice). Once I get the hang of it (the trick is getting into a lower gear), it is still stressful, requiring concentration, but not as scary, with immense and lasting satisfaction when we come to the end of this country road, where we come to a literal archway. Here we find a USAID hat in the middle of that sandy road – crumpled, ripped, dirty, trampled – a metaphor it seemed for what Trump/Musk had just done by shutting down USAID.

*Mastering how to bike on sand © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

*Our guide,Ta, shows us what a cashew nut looks like on the tree © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

We ride a bit further on regular streets and have our first snack stop – with local foods (best cashews ever), dragon fruit, bananas, and coconuts cut so we can drink the juice with a straw, and then come upon a wedding, where the uncle of the groom comes rushing out to greet one of our riders, Pam, who he had helped rescue just two days before when their taxi had car trouble on the way from the airport. Small world!

*Coming upon a wedding, the groom’s uncle recognizes one of our riders © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

*We get a personal view of a wedding and learn something about the two-day rituals © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

*Calista Phillips, our cheery Discovery Bicycle Tours guide, takes us on a country road in Siem Reap © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

*Seeing a metaphor in a dirty, dusty, crumpled, ripped USAID hat found on the sandy Cambodian road © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

We come to our first temple, Banteay Srei, a 10th century temple dedicated to the Hindu gods Shiva and Parvati, which is considered a “jewel of Khmer art” because of its intricate carvings.

*Exploring Bateay Srei © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The full ride is 36 miles but we have to cut it short by 6 miles for time, so are transported to the last two temples by bus (others could cut short the ride even earlier because the bus and bike truck pretty much follow us).

*Ta Som © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Our next stop is Ta Som with its dramatic ficus (fig) tree enveloping one of the towers. It was constructed at the end of 12^th century, beginning of 13^th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII and features monumental gateways and a central shrine decorated with intricate carvings that I find dazzling. It was destroyed centuries ago and lay in ruins until international partners provided assistance to restore it. The temple earned a place on the World Heritage list in 1992 and was the first project to be managed by the World Monuments Fund’s Cambodian staff.

*At Ta Som, you feel you are walking through art because of how the gateways line up. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

We next come to the stunning and significant Preah Khan which I find most intriguing and spell-binding – perhaps because one of the guides offers to give a private tour for $5 and points out views and details we never would have seen or appreciated, like the only carved image of Shiva holding a mirror among these temples, and an alcove where he tells us to beat our chest to hear the resonance. (This winds up being a common practice and I recommend it highly.)

Preah Khan *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Preah Khan (it means “Royal Sword”) was built in the 12th century for King Jayavarman VII to honor his father on the site of his victory over the invading Chams in 1191.

The guard explains that the King built this temple with an aim of bringing Hindus and Buddhists together – a Buddhist sanctuary is offset by satellite Hindu temples. Half of the temple has Hindu carvings; the other half is Buddhist. (I wonder if this is why the temple was intentionally destroyed.)

*The Preah Khan guard points out the only carved image of Shiva holding a mirror so far discovered among these temples © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

What is so fascinating about these vast temple complexes is that they were not just for worship but would have been like palaces, castles or fortresses, housing hundreds, if not thousands of people. The Preah Khan complex combined the roles of city, temple and Buddhist university and would have had 97,840 attendants and servants, including 1000 dancers and 1000 teachers.

The stone – which mostly appears grey-black- becomes a blazing orange in the setting sun as we leave.

We cross a bridge lined with impressive military figures – several with the heads cut off, very possibly to sell on the black market.

*The dramatic sunset scene of the warrior statues on the Tonle Om Gate bridge outside the Preah Khan temple © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

*Impressive military statues line the Tonle Om Gate bridge outside the Preah Khan temple © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

As we cross, the sun, glowing a fiery red, offers a spectacular scene and our guide, Hang, stops the bus for us. We have just two minutes to capture the setting sun before it falls behind trees.

Between 800 and 1200 A.D., hundreds if not thousands of temples were built through the region. The oldest ones have all but disappeared due to weather, war, religious conflict and greed (stealing the art for sale). The ones we see today have had to be excavated from overgrowth and restored and represent the Golden Age of monument building. They have a certain common style – largely because of they were built in the same era, and many of the ones we see were built by King Jayavarman VII, which makes you wonder about how he had the resources and manpower. But the temples are remarkably individual for their art, theme and most especially how you experience of discovering them, so I come away with my favorites.

The most famous – for good reason – is Angkor Wat, a religious complex spanning more than 400 acres (five times the size of the Vatican) and widely recognized (confirmed by the Guinness World Records) as the largest religious structure or monument in the world. It was originally built by the Khmer Empire, commissioned by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple before being converted into a Buddhist site by the end of the century.

What strikes me, though, after seeing several of these, particularly those built by King Jayavarman VII and King Suryavarman II, is how similar to Peru and the temples built in the mid-1400s, most famously Machu Picchu, by the Incan emperor Pachacuti, known as the “Alexander the Great” of the Inca. It makes you think about the commonality of the human history.

Back at the Aviary Hotel, I get in a 20-minute swim in the rooftop pool before meeting our group for a 10-minute walk to Chamrey Tree, an elegant restaurant filled with gorgeous art, where we have a fantastic dinner.

After dinner, Calista and Jake go off to explore the night market, where Jake is game to try any unusual food. The next morning, he reports back of his experience eating insects (not sure if he also snacked on snake or just observed).

Departure Day: Angkor Sunrise & Biking

*Sunrise at Angkor Wat © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Day 4 is our departure day from Cambodia, but our last morning in Siem Reap starts at 4:30 am (we are given a bagged breakfast to take with us) so we can be at Angkor Wat for the sunrise (with thousands of others). The famous view would have the iconic temple back-lit and reflected in two large pools in front – alas the sunrise is not all that impressive and even coming so early, it is hard to get a good enough position for “the money shot,” but the experience is exciting enough.

The real thrill comes after, when we go to explore the temple. Most of the sunrise-goers leave, so we are able to visit with comparatively few people if we hustle – our guide urges us to get on line fast so we aren’t trapped in an hour-long wait to climb the steep staircase.

*Climbing the steep staircase into Angkor Wat © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

We get inside the temple just as the sun is penetrating the structure.

*Angkor Wat © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

It took hundreds of thousands of workers just 37 years to build – (the 37 year deadline coincides with the belief in 37 heavens and 32 hells and there are 37 steps to enter. Like Machu Picchu, these temples were built by devotees as well as slaves. The stones came from a quarry 35 miles away (during COVID, they had time to study and discovered a canal, which they now believe was used to float the stones).

*Angkor Wat, the largest religious complex in the world, had to be reclaimed from the forest © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The temple would have been overgrown after centuries of abandonment; it was rediscovered in 1941 and the French helped restore the temple after a collapse in 1947. The World Monuments Fund has been working to preserve and restore these temples since 1991 and Angkor Wat was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992.

Built in early 12^th C under the reign of Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat was both the grandest of all Khmer temples and a city in its own right.

Angkor Wat houses what are considered the finest examples of Khmer art – carved bas-reliefs stretching nearly 600 meters.

In the eyes of Khmer people, the most significant bas-relief in the Churning of the Sea of Milk Gallery portrays devas and asuras in a dramatic tug of war representing the eternal struggle of good and evil that churns amrit, the elixir of everlasting life, from the primordial ocean.

*The bas-relief Churning of the Sea of Milk portrays heaven and hell and the eternal struggle between good and evil © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Heaven and Hell is depicted in an astonishing 68-meter-long wall carving: heaven above consists of two tiers while hell has 32 tiers. The inscriptions tell what kind of sin a person may have committed in life judging by the tier the sinner ended up on after death.

*Angkor Wat’s Hall of a Thousand Buddhas* *© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

In the Hall of a Thousand Buddhas (Preah Poan) a few stand out dramatically from the grey statues for their gold robes. Sometime in the late/post-Angkor eras after the temple converted to Buddhism and eventually Theravada Buddhism, monks began collecting Buddha statues here.

Banyon Temple

*Encountering monkeys on the trail © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

From Angkor Wat, we bike to the Bayon Temple, with its enormous, fantastical enigmatic faces looking in every direction from every stone tower – 216 in all. It is not known who the face represents – we heard they represented Buddha before achieving Nirvana, or possibly the ruler who built the temple, Jayavarman VII.

Dating from the late 12^th century (after Angkor Wat) and the last to be built in the Angkor, the Bayon is a Mahayana Buddhist temple built to pay homage to the king responsible for its construction, Jayavarman VII, and dedicated to his mother. We are told that 12,640 people would have lived within it, including 650 dancing girls.

We note the sign: “Beware of Monkey Attack” – sure enough, one of our group reports being “accosted” by a monkey.

With time growing short before some of our group has to get to the airport, our 12-mile bike ride is cut short (though some have biked along the top of the defensive walls of Angkor Thom). and we travel by bus to the last temple we get to visit Ta Prohm, famous for scenes from Angelina Jolie’s “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider” film.

*Ta Prohm Temple © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

You really feel the age of the Ta Prohm temple with massive trees growing out of the stone and massive stone blocks in heaps.

Of the statues consecrated here in 1186 by Jayavarman VII here, most important was Prajnaparamita, the personification of the Perfection of Wisdom, a figure whom the king identified with his mother.

Given its fame and the dramatic setting, as well as the time of day, it is no surprise that the temple is fairly overrun with tourists.

It’s fairly amazing how much we do on Day 4, our departure day when we fly to Hanoi to start the 12-day Vietnam Discovery Bicycle tour: three temples, a fabulous bike ride, lovely lunch, and since they have arranged a late check out (the flight several of us are on is at 7 pm), I even have time for a swim at the Aviary Hotel. But then I remind myself: we got up at 4:30 am!

*Discovery Bicycle Tours organizes the four-day pre-tour in Cambodia to make our visit to Siem Reap to be satisfying, productive and comfortable © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Discovery Bicycle Tours organizes everything to make our biking as satisfying and our brief time here as productive and pleasant as possible – which means we are accompanied by a third guide/bike mechanic; the bike truck typically is nearby; and the bus that takes us to the start/finish, and various stops accompanies like a SAG vehicle, so we don’t have to bike with our big cameras but have access when we get to a site. The snack (and rest) stops are also really marvelous – typically with local foods – well planned and well timed.

*Enjoying local treats, like coconut juice, for our snack on Discovery Bicycle Tours’ four-day Cambodia pre-tour in Siem Reap © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

In addition to the Discovery Bicycle Tours guide, we have two local guides here in Cambodia – one who likes to be called “Hang,” and the other who likes to be called “Ta” – both take care of us like mother hens, though I would have liked more background information about the different sites we visit. (An excellent source is “Angkor Temples in Cambodia” www.angkor-temples-in-cambodia.com.)

*The Aviary Hotel, an eco-conscious boutique hotel, is our base in Siem Reap for the four-day Discovery Bicycle Tours Cambodia pre-tour © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Discovery does a great job of providing advance materials, the day-by-day itinerary, packing lists; excellent bikes (e-bikes are available but not really necessary) and helmets, and even though we do ride together with guides at the front and back (and not a great idea to go off on our own), we have Ride GPS so we can follow the route.

Get the required visa and arrival document at Cambodia’s website (evisa.gov.kh), where the fee is $30 (if you use a visa service it costs something like $197), but give yourself enough time to get the confirmation.

Also, always double-check the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory and make sure no vaccinations are required or recommended.

It is also recommended to purchase travel insurance – especially for the medical and evacuation coverage. You can check a site like travelinsurance.com to get recommendations.

On to Vietnam!

Discovery Bicycle Tours, 2520 W. Woodstock Rd., Woodstock, VT 05091, 800-257-2226, 802-457-3553, info@discoverybicycletours.com, discoverybicycletours.com.

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© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Adventure Travel, Ecotourism, Health and Wellness travel, Travel Trends, Wellness tourism

Travel Industry Responds to Demand for Wellness Tourism

June 3, 2025 krubin723

Discovery Bicycle Tours offers the opportunity to become immersed in the enchanting destination of Siam Reap by bike, Cambodia. *Wellness tourism is a win-win-win for travelers and destinations* © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Travel has so many benefits – on a macro level, travel is the greatest invention humanity has devised for promoting peace, prosperity, progress and understanding by bringing different people together. On a micro level, travel is a life-enhancing, oftentimes life-changing experience that promotes personal health and well-being. Indeed, wellness travel is a significant and growing segment of the wellness industry writ large, and the travel industry in particular. And the travel industry is responding to demand.

“The global wellness tourism market represents a small but rapidly increasing share of tourism trips. Compared to other leisure travelers, wellness tourists tend to spend significantly more, while exploring diverse destinations, activities and services. Governments, wellness businesses and local organizations can implement thoughtful wellness tourism strategies to benefit both the destinations and their surrounding communities,” Global Wellness Institute research fellow Tonia Callender writes. “Now is an especially opportune time, as wellness tourists are increasingly interested in nature, curative waters, outdoor exercise, local healthy cuisines, and indigenous healing arts. Protecting all of these assets strengthens a destination’s appeal for wellness tourism.”

In 2023, wellness trips accounted for 7.8% of all tourism trips but 17.9% of all tourism expenditures. Because wellness travelers spend more and favor experiences that are authentic and unique, there is less pressure for destinations to engage in a “race to the bottom” strategy that competes on price and quantity – in other words, an antidote to overtourism and mass tourism.

Wellness tourism has the potential to spread tourism to less traveled destinations; bring economic benefits and innovations to rural areas; and increase the incentives to protect local culture, biodiversity, and the environment. The values and interests inherent in wellness tourism are well aligned with those of sustainable and responsible tourism. A region’s key assets for developing and promoting wellness tourism extend beyond its hospitality and wellness businesses, and include the wellbeing of its people, the integrity of its culture, and the quality of its natural environment. As shown by the examples of Costa Rica, New Zealand, and Bhutan, sustainable tourism policies and strategies can help protect key assets and foundations while creating a successful and competitive wellness tourism destination.

The Global Wellness Summit’s (GWS’s) The Future of Wellness: 2025 Trends cited important developments impacting the travel industry and wellness travelers.

Trend: Slow Travel

One of the leading trends identified that I am obsessed with is slow travel. I have just returned from a perfect example that hits on all cylinders: BoatBikeTours’ sailing and biking trip to Netherlands’ islands, which offers an ideal pace for personal reflection, for visual interest, for a boost of endorphins, the opportunity to stop and take a photo or engage with someone you meet, even to ask directions, to go through villages and towns and ride back roads where you can appreciate how people live that you would never see otherwise – in other words, engagement. Slow travel provides all the wellness benefits of the travel experience.

*Cycling back to the* Leafde fan Fryslân *sailing ship,* our home for Boat Bike Tours Islandhopping Wadden Sea cycling trip. *Travel companies are satisfying the growing demand for “slow travel.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

At the Global Wellness Summit, this trend was dubbed “Wellness on the Line” and focused on how cruise and rail travel fit into the desire for “slow travel” (but I would add biking, hiking, walking and pilgrimage tours offer much the same benefits).

Train travel fits the ideal of slow travel – both in pacing that promotes mindfulness, even the rhythm of wheels rolling on the track and the gentle rocking as you watch the landscape roll by, and being eco-friendly.

Belmond, the luxury travel company that is part of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE and owns or manages 45 luxury hotels and spas, restaurant, train and river cruise properties, operates some of the most famous trains in the world including the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, the Royal Scotsman. Its new Britannic Explorer, UK’s first luxury sleeper train, has a first-of-its-kind wellness suite onboard, where as you travel to Wales, the Lake District, Cornwall, you can enjoy treatments based on circadian rhythms, with different treatments depending upon the time of day.

Nicola Herbert, Belmond’s global director of wellness strategies (its tagline is “Discover a new pace of travel”), described the company’s global strategy for Belmond hotels, trains, cruises, safari camps, focus on wellbeing and why trains and wellness are such a good mix: “Guests on a Belmond train feel like they are stepping into a cocoon, a bubble, moving away from reality. There is a natural tendency to disconnect. The common theme: it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey; embrace the journey.”

Trains and boats have a naturally slow pace, their movement, and even sound, lull the body as you also see incredible natural landscapes floating by.

“We provide amazingly curated aesthetic space where guests use their creativity to achieve wellness – guests find a sketch book gifted in the cabin, communing across a chess board. Passengers have permission to reconnect with relaxation. Traveling with companion or fellow passengers, discovering destination – bonding experience – create friendships for life on these journeys.”

You can find a plethora of wellness experiences at Belmond properties at a dedicated site, https://www.belmond.com/experiences/wellbeing

(A company specializing in rail journeys is Railbookers.com, 888-829-3040.)

Exercising while cruising from Prague to Berlin on CroisiEurope’s riverboat, Elbe Princesse. CroisiEurope is introducing a new riverboat in the Amazon in 2027, the MV Brasilian Dream,offering an eco-tourism experience © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Wellness is transforming cruising. We saw it in the 1980s, when cruiselines introduced luxurious spas and healthy dining on board, but what they are doing now is “integrated wellness” with onboard programming –a nutritionist lecture on “nutrigenomics,” a three-day cellular detox, fitness classes that focus on mobility, balance, posture; yoga meditation; and activities like stargazing at night, classes to learn computer skills, art, or learning the tango – as well as onshore activities and excursions.

Viking Cruises is one line that has embraced this in a big way. “There are so many facets from the architecture of ship reflecting its Nordic heritage, an onboard snow grotto with snowballs scented with lavender, to excursions to thermal lagoons and nature walks;

Shore excursions also provide opportunities for these enhanced experiences, like a workshop on Aloe Vera in Cape Verde; a guided medicinal plant walk through the jungle in Mexico, said Suzie Ellis, GWI’s CEO.

Blue World Voyages, launching in 2026, is promising to be the epitome of active lifestyle cruising. A ship designed in yacht style it is dedicated to sport and wellness. It strives to be the ‘healthiest ship at sea,” with an- entire deck designed around sports and fitness, the world’s largest functional training facility at sea, a state of the art golf school, and the largest luxury spa per passenger at sea.

European Waterways’ barge hotel, Panache, plies the canals of France, the ultimate in “slow travel” with the opportunity to bike along the paths alongside © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

While ocean cruising has embraced wellness onboard and with on-shore experiences, my favorite kind of cruising are the river and canal cruises on canalboats and barges which are quite literally “slow-travel” – so slow, that you can bike alongside at twice the speed, and float into ports you can just stride off the boat to explore. Among these are: AmaWaterways, Amadeus River Cruises, CroisiEurope, Emerald Cruises, European Waterways, Viking River Cruises, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. You can even rent your own live-aboard self-skippered boat through LeBoat in Europe and Erie Canal Adventures on the Erie Canal in New York State. Also, historic sailing vessels, like the tallships of the Maine Windjammer fleet, are idyllic for an analog travel retreat (www.mainewindjammerfleet.com). Expeditionary cruises to the Galapagos, Arctic and Antarctic, like those offered by Lindblad Expeditions, Aurora Expeditions, Hurtigruten, Ponant, Poseidon Expeditions and Quark Expeditions are a category of “wellness” all their own, adding doses of adventure and exhilaration.

The growing desire for “slow travel” is seen in the surging popularity, accessibility and availability of bike tours –whether guided or self-guided, inn-to-inn or by boat. Bike tours evoke physical, emotional, spiritual and social benefits, as well as a direct connection to engage directly with local people and the environment. And the wide availability of e-bikes now extend a cyclists’ longevity in the saddle and take away anxiety over being able to handle the hills or the miles. Among the operators offering guided and self-guided itineraries on rail trails around the country and the world (where you are most likely to achieve that level of serenity and inner dialogue because you are not worrying about car traffic): Discovery Bicycle Tours; Wilderness Voyageurs; Backroads; VBT Bicycling Vacations and Boat Bike Tours.

Trend: Analog Wellness

At the heart of many of the wellness trends is a rejection of the digital, overly techno, virtual world in favor of a return to the simplicity and authenticity of the analog, spawning a trend to “analog travel”– old-school, old-fashioned, basic creative pursuits and opportunities for in-person social interaction and communication.

“The online and social media world has gone too far,” said GWI’s Beth McGroarty. People are resenting the manipulation, the intrusive marketing, the evil algorithms, the lies. People are sick of ‘brain robbing,’ polarization, and the time-suck from life spent in front of screens. People are getting aggressive about logging off in life and in travel. More travelers are seeking out destinations and experiences where the phone is locked up or properties that do not have wifi (think “White Lotus”). More hotels and resorts and destinations are channeling this zeitgeist, introducing retro, pre industrial programming, tactile experiences like embroidery, clay modeling– analog experiences that restore what the digital world stolen.”

*Bird watching in the Thung Nham Ecotourism Zone in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. People are craving analog experiences to restore what the digital world has stolen. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Analog experiences are as varied as blacksmithing and birdwatching, or the use of “retro tech” like old-school film cameras, dumb phones (that can only be used for emergencies), typewriters, paper maps and old-fashioned alarm clocks. The common denominator is going “unplugged.”

Vinyl listening is now the rage, she said (and as if to prove the point, Newsday reported, “Vinyl bars in NYC to explore ” https://www.newsday.com/travel/vinyl-bars-nyc-g4cu5v7v)

There are deep listening sauna sessions, where you settle in for a group audio meditation – take complete vinyl album from classic artist; and “social reading”; wellness resorts and retreats are offering art as wellness therapy, arts and crafts, painting, ceramics, writing, knitting workshops. embroidery, clay modeling.

“It’s not just going retro, but back to pre-Industrial pursuits.”

At the Viceroy at Ombria Algarve in Portugal, for example, guests can sign up to be a “Shepherd for a Day” learning traditional sheep herding practices from a local shepherd and drive the flock home; also “Hive to Honey” and “Traditional Pottery Workshop”with a local artisan (Viceroy at Ombria Algarve, www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com)

‎On a restored 17^th century farm resort, you can do blacksmithing, milk cows, leatherworking, carpentry, wheat milling.

Tourism boards are jumping in. Japan’s tourism board has created a road map for travelers to find traditions like paper crafting, copper and gold smithing.

Nightlife is also going analog, with super social clubs, spaces where people craft, read, listen to music, play games; reading parties where an hour of reading is set to live music in beautiful settings.

People are also giving up booze and seeking a nightlife beyond eating and drinking: a rise in night experiences and wellness experiences like stargazing and night kayaking (also a reaction to global warming which is making daytime activities oppressively, even dangerously hot).

“The analog travel trend will only rise. With humanoid robots, AI agents replacing human agents, and more unreality than reality, analog travel will be a counter trend.”

Trend: Sauna Reimagined

Saunas have been around for thousands of years, but saunas are enjoying an incredible renaissance and renewal, a trend which GWI calls “Sauna Reimagined.”

“From new urban saunas in New York and Chicago, to rustic waterfront saunas in Oslo or Brighton, to saunas with immersive art installations in Tokyo, today’s saunas represent a reinvention of an age-old tradition—and an increasingly younger, hipper crowd is taking notice, the GWI reports. “These younger consumers, craving real-life connections beyond bars and clubs, are flocking to social saunas, which can feature DJs, drag queens or full-blown concerts. Where saunas were once a sad, dark, lonely box in a basement, today they’re lively, social, cultural and entertainment hubs, often with fantastic views and in incredible locations, and people just can’t get enough.”

Saunas are increasingly paired with other forms of entertainment (“sauna-tainment”, which resonates with a younger demographic. In London, sauna festivals and pop-ups combine music, dance workshops, bands and DJs with sauna rituals, cold plunges and hot tubs, even comedy, while in Norway, Deep Listening sessions at Farris Bad bring people together to hear a favorite classic album while in the sauna.

“People used to think of sauna as sad, dark, lonely box in a basement that smelled like sweat. Today, they are lively social hubs with fantastic views in incredible locations.”

Trend: Mideast Becomes Wellness Mecca

Another Wellness travel trend is unfolding in the Middle East, huge resorts and retreats are being designed for wellness based on ancient traditions (being alcohol free is appealing to the growing interest in being “sober curious) but embracing cutting edge technology including AI (going the opposite way of “analog travel.”)

The most ambitious project is Amaala, a $1 trillion tourism megaproject under construction in Saudi Arabia, developed by Public Investment Fund-owned Red Sea Global, under the patronage of Prince Mohammed bin Salman. It is part of the Saudi Vision 2030 program (diversifying its image and economy from oil). Spanning 4,200 square kilometers, it consists of three main developments: The Coastal Development, Amaala Island, and Triple Bay. The scale of development is humongous: they are looking at 600 projects, 140,000-plus rooms with the first eight destinations, seven resorts and yacht club opening this year (https://www.visitredsea.com/en/destinations/amaala).

*The MidEast is trail-blazing new trends in wellness tourism © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

This year, a new luxury resort in Dubai will not only offer beautiful rooms and great hospitality, but guests also get comprehensive health diagnostic, treatments, high-tech genetic testing and have access to doctors on site.

Rather than follow Western wellness practices, these new resorts are setting new trends combining culturally-rooted wellness with cutting edge technology, says Thomas Morris, Senior Partner, Middle East, Finn Partners (United Arab Emirates) – not just luxury resorts, but high-tech clinics, not just massive sporting events, but cutting edge training for pro and amateur athletes. “The Middle East is no longer just a stopover, but is driving trends.”

The Future of Wellness 2025 Trends report is available from the Global Wellness Institute, https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/.

Road Scholar: Adventure is Key Factor in Happiness and Health for Older Adults

Non-Profit Leader in Educational Travel Establishes June 8th as Annual National Observance, ‘Age Adventurously Day,’ in Celebration of 50th Anniversary

Adventuring in Vietnam. A study by the non-profit Road Scholar finds that adventure is a key contributor to the happiness and health of aging adults. The leader in educational travel has declared June 8^th “Age Adventurously Day, to motivate older adults to break free of their routines and seek out new experiences, and is offering prizes for participating More information at roadscholar.org.. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

Road Scholar, the not-for-profit world leader in educational travel for older adults, released a new report indicating that adventure is a key contributor to the happiness and health of aging adults. Based on a survey of 300 adults aged 50 to 98, Road Scholar’s findings reveal that 94% of older adults who embrace adventurous activities – whether through travel, lifelong learning or stepping outside their comfort zones – report higher levels of wellbeing.

In addition to the report, the organization has announced a new national observance on its 50th anniversary June 8th, “Age Adventurously Day,” kicking off with a contest offering one lucky winner a travel voucher, among other prizes.

Road Scholar’s Age Adventurously Report offers compelling insights into the connection between aging, adventure and wellbeing. Compared to previous generations, today’s older adults are more adventurous than ever before.

Celebrating a birthday atop Machu Picchu, the climate of a four-day Inca Trail hiking and camping trek. I can certify the Road Scholar finding that adventuring promotes happiness © Eric Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Here’s a look at a few standout findings:

Educational Experiences Spark Interest in Distant Destinations and Frequent Travel: Older adults who engage in educational travel are more likely to explore distant destinations and travel more often compared to their peers. Thirty-two percent of participants surveyed reported that the majority of their travel is international. Road Scholar participants also tend to travel more frequently with 45% of those polled taking 4-8 trips annually, compared to 26% of those not involved with the organization.

Adventure Adds to Health and Happiness: Nearly 100% of older adults surveyed agreed that being adventurous contributes to their health, happiness and wellbeing. In fact, Road Scholar participants above the age of 50 who actively embrace new experiences indicated feeling just as happy as they were in their 20s, 30s or 40s – scoring an average of 3.2 on a 5-point scale ranking happiness from “not happier” to “extremely happier.”

Adventurousness Across Generations: When asked if their generation was more adventurous in older adulthood than their parents’ generation, 75% of Gen Xers agreed and 89% of Boomers and Silent Gen concurred – showing that older adults have evolved to be more adventurous.

Celebrate Age Adventurously Day

Road Scholar has declared June 8th as Age Adventurously Day. This now-approved annual observance, certified by the National Day Archives, aims to motivate older adults to break free of their routines, seek out fresh opportunities, and redefine what it means to age.

On June 8th each calendar year, Age Adventurously Day will serve as a reminder to individuals that aging does not mean the end of adventure, but rather a new beginning full of opportunities. The day invites everyone within the Road Scholar community and beyond to embrace the spirit of adventure, stepping beyond the ordinary, trying something they’ve always wanted to do, and making aging an adventure.

To kick off the inaugural Age Adventurously Day, Road Scholar is hosting a special contest. Participants are invited to share their plans for the day or submit stories and photos of their adventures at www.ageadventurously.org. One winner will receive a $1,500 travel voucher for a Road Scholar program, along with other prizes. Entries will be accepted through June 13, with the winner selected at random.

For more information, visit roadscholar.org.

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© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Adventure Travel, Ecotourism, Family Travel, Outdoors Adventures, Responsible Travel, Summer Vacations, Sustainable Travel

Trade a Ho-Hum Summer Vacation for an Epic Adventure

May 7, 2025 krubin723

CroisiEurope, a leading European river cruise company, is introducing family and multi-generational cruises with special programming and pricing. One itinerary starts and ends in Strasbourg © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Still looking to trade a ho-hum summer vacation for a memorable adventure? Here are some ideas:

“No Passport” Adventures: 2025 Travel Trend

“No-Passport Vacations” are hot this summer, with American travelers eager to explore incredible destinations right here in the United States. Recent reports show a surge in domestic travel, with 60% of people wanting to see more of their own country.

Here are 10 unforgettable “No-Passport” adventures, from backcountry biking to horseback riding and chasing the Northern Lights (but don’t forget your Real I.D.):

Backcountry Biking in Utah: The Aquarius Trail Hut System offers a backcountry mountain biking experience like no other in the region. A system of five huts furnished with beds, a bathroom, a fully stocked kitchen and solar power has been strategically placed along a 190-mile route through some of Utah’s most scenic backcountry and best mountain biking trails. https://aquariustrail.com/

American Road Trip 2.0: Nothing is more rejuvenating than jumping in your car and heading out on an American road trip, and AdventureGenie is the world’s first AI-powered, end-to-end system for planning one. It offers the most immersive, innovative and intelligent adventure travel planning tools available. Whether starting from a curated GenieTrip or creating a fully customized and personalized journey from your own ideas, AdventureGenie has you covered. https://adventuregenie.com/

Alaska Lodge Adventure: Discover the rugged beauty of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska on a guided five-day trip with Adventure Life that combines outdoor exploration with lodge-based comfort. Tour Kennicott Town and learn about its mining history, hike to a hidden lake or across a glacier, try ice climbing, fly into the backcountry for a day of wilderness exploration, and paddle a packraft through pristine waters. https://www.adventure-life.com/alaska/tours/18770/wrangell-st-elias-national-park-lodge-based-adventure

No passport needed: Escape Adventures is offering a family-friendly, five-day camping and mountain bike adventure in Grand Canyon National Park that includes riding singletrack to Monument Point, hiking into the canyon on backcountry trails, pedaling across the Kaibab Plateau and conquering the Rainbow Rim trail before descending to Indian Hollow.

North Rim of Grand Canyon: Providing gently rolling terrain of lung-expanding dimensions, the North Rim has been long-held as sacred ground to hikers and cyclists alike. Escape Adventures is offering a family-friendly, five-day camping and mountain bike adventure that includes riding singletrack to Monument Point, hiking into the canyon on backcountry trails, pedaling across the Kaibab Plateau and conquering the Rainbow Rim trail before descending to Indian Hollow. https://escapeadventures.com/tour/grand-canyon-north-rim-mountain-bike-tour/

Yellowstone Fly Fishing: Take an expertly guided float down the Yellowstone River on one of Flying Pig Adventures’ custom rafts while you enjoy the spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and world-class fly fishing. Just outside Yellowstone National Park, the upper stretches of the river are lightly fished, but hold large numbers of native cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. Private access to the river allows guides to take guests where the fish are without fighting the crowds. https://www.flyingpigrafting.com/yellowstone-fly-fishing

Wine Country Weekend: North of San Francisco, the winding Russian River meets the dramatic Pacific coastline, shaping if not sheltering a world all its own. Escape Adventures offers an idyllic three-day road biking tour in this romantic landscape, quilted with a colorful patchwork of old growth redwoods, fruitful vineyards, historic towns and beautiful gardens. https://escapeadventures.com/tour/napa-valley-weekend-road-bike-tour/

Cowboy Up in Montana: Settle in at the Circle Bar Ranch in central Montana for horseback riding and other classic dude ranch adventures. On the ranch’s 520 acres and nearby national forest land, ride a trusty steed through open prairies, across the Judith River or up a ridge for a breakfast cookout, go hiking, try fly fishing, sport shooting or archery, or tour a Yogo sapphire mine by UTV. At the end of the day, enjoy traditional ranch recipes and locally inspired dishes, and cozy accommodations in a historic cabin, the lodge or Ranch House. https://www.circlebarranch.com/

Jackson Hole Tiny House: Fireside Jackson Hole redefines the traditional vacation with its collection of sustainably built, LEED-certified luxury cabins. Experience the intimacy of a boutique hotel and ambiance of a private residence, set within the atmosphere of a wooded campground – all moments away from the majesty of Grand Teton National Park. https://www.firesidejacksonhole.com

Alaska Northern Lights: On Gondwana Ecotours’ Alaska Northern Lights Adventure, guests will get a dose of local culture by day and photograph the Aurora Borealis at night. Highlights of the tour include dogsledding through snowy forests, taking curling lessons from locals, enjoying a meal with homesteaders, soaking in a geothermal hot spring, learning how to photograph the Aurora Borealis, snowshoeing on private land, having tea with a family of reindeer herders and more. https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/northern-lights-tour-fairbanks-alaska/

*Rafting on the Gallatin River, Big Sky, Montana © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Big Sky Summer: In Big Sky, Montana, The Wilson Hotel serves as a basecamp for summer adventures on the edge of Yellowstone National Park. Hike through shaded forests and wildflower-filled meadows, raft or fly fish the clear waters of the Gallatin River, experience the adrenaline rush of lift-served mountain biking, and explore the natural wonders and wildlife of the park. Afterward, enjoy Montana fare at the upscale yet casual Block 3 Kitchen & Bar on site or burgers, sandwiches and entertainment at Tips Up. https://thewilsonhotel.com/

L.L. Bean’s Maine Guided Adventures

*L.L. Bean’s Maine Coastal Inn Kayaking Trip is an island-hopping kayak adventure in Casco Bay, complete with a memorable stay in an historic seaside inn © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

The famed adventure retailer now offers inclusive multi-day guided outdoor adventures in Maine. Among them:

Maine Island Lighthouse Birding Trip: Discover a birder’s paradise on a small Maine island, where you’ll rack up sightings during peak migration and spend three cozy nights in a renovated light keeper’s house.

Maine Coastal Inn Kayak ing Trip: Experience the classic coastal Maine combo: an island-hopping kayak adventure in Casco Bay, complete with a memorable stay in an historic seaside inn.

Allagash River Canoe Trip: Paddle through history on this iconic Maine canoe trail, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leads you through the unspoiled nature of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

Maine Island Kayak Camping Trip; Spend your days touring picturesque islands, your nights camping under the stars, and every moment enjoying the unmatched beauty of the Maine coast.

Visit https://www.llbeanoutdoors.com/overnight-trips

Backroads Travel: Summer in Europe—There’s Still Time!

Backroads Travel has a special site dedicated to last minute trips taking off in the next two months. When we checked, there were 24 on the list including:

Denmark Islands Bike Tour of charming harbors, medieval villages and fairy tale castles.

Scotland & England Bike Tour, Edinburgh to the Yorkshire Dales

A new multi-adventure to Bavaria, Tyrolean Alps and the Dolomites Tour, featuring ”peak experiences” in Germany, Austria and Italy

A Basque Country Multi-Adventure Tour, Bibao to San Sebastian and Biarritz

Cinque Terre & Tuscany Walking & Hiking Tour, featuring coastal Italy’s seaside charm and Tuscan villages.

Italian & Swiss Alps Walking & Hiking Tour, Monte Rosa to the Matterhorn and Zermatt.

See more at https://www.backroads.com/award-winning-tours/last-minute-trips

CroisiEurope Focuses on Families for Summer River Cruises at Special Rates

*CroisiEurope’s Elbe Princess, docked in Berlin © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

As an independent, family-owned company, CroisiEurope, one of the leading river cruise companies in Europe, has accepted the challenge of planning a holiday that delights every generation. Children crave excitement and adventure, while parents and grandparents seek culture, fine dining, and relaxation. Affordability is also a key issue. The company has designed a series of CroisiFamily and Multi-Generational Cruises to bring families together on unforgettable journeys along the water, with an ideal balance of fun, discovery, and relaxation, and a value proposition.

The CroisiFamily deals include a free or discounted cruise for children up to 16, waived solo supplement, adjacent cabins for family members, adapted menus, the Multi-Generational Offer comes with a 20% discount for 2^nd generation and free cruise for the 3^rd generation up to 16 years old.

Among the family cruise offerings:

Rhine in the heart of the Black Forest (5 nights: Strasbourg, Rudesheim, Koblenz, Mainz, Rastatt, Strasbourg, featuring a day excursion at Europa-Park, the “world’s best theme park: for the 8th consecutive year, or at Rulantica, a Scandinavian-style water park.

Portugal to Spain: the Douro Valley and Salamanca (7 nights: Porto, Regua, Vega de Terron, Salamanca, Barca d’Alva, Ferradosa, Pinhão, Porto)Andalusia: tradition, gastronomy and flamenco (7 nights: Sevilla, Córdoba, Cadiz, El Puerto de Santa Maria, Isla Minima, Granada, Sevilla)

The Adriatic’s Treasures for the whole Family: Croatia & Montenegro (7 nights: Dubrovnik, Mljet, Korcula, Sibenick, Trogir, Split, Hvar, Vis, Kotor, Dubrovnik)

See more: https://www.croisieuroperivercruises.com/destination/family-cruises, 800 768 7232.

*Dresden, Germany. CroisiEurope is offering a discounted rate or no-solo supplement on its six-night Prague, Dresden and the Castles of Bohemia river ruise © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

CroisiEurope has just come out with a list of summer cruises it is offering at 20 to 40% off the fare, or no supplement for solo cruisers. These include:

Coastal Cruises: Croatia & Montenegro, 7-nights; Splendors of the Northern Adriatic Sea, 7 nights;

Southern Europe: Timeless Venice, 5 nights; Andalusia: Tradition, Gastronomy & Flamenco, 7-nights;

France: From Lyon to the tip of Provence, 6 nights; All the must-see sites on the Rhone between Lyon, Provence, and Camargue, 6 nights; Cruise through the Aquitaine Region from Bordeaux to Ryan, 6 nights;

Northern and Central Europe: Best of the Netherlands, 5 nights; Prague, Dresden and the Castles of Bohemia, 6 nights; The Beautiful Blue Danube, 7 nights; Discover the greatest cities along the Danube, 5 nights;

Contact your travel agent or call 800 768 7232, email: info-us@croisieurope.com, www.croisieuroperivercruises.com.

Global Family Travels

Mission-driven experiential travel company, Global Family Travels, is dedicated to providing authentic community-based Learn, Serve and Immerse travel experiences as means to foster cross-cultural understanding, destination stewardship and better global citizens.

“In partnership with community organizations and nonprofits, we apply regenerative tourism principles to develop community-based travel experiences which address environmental and societal challenges in the destinations we work in,” says founder Jennifer Spatz. “Our ultimate vision is to unite humanity and nature, and inspire travelers to take responsibility for the challenges and opportunities facing our increasingly inter-connected planet” – a very innovative idea when the company launched 15 years ago.

“Long before ‘regenerative travel’ was in vocabulary, we put the destination’s needs at the heart of the tourism experience – what locals concerned about.” She designs itineraries around the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and partners with nonprofits, community based organizations.

“Responsible, respective travel means more authentic engagement and collaboration with local communities,” she said. “We do due diligence to choose carefully which NGOs [non-governmental organizations] to support.”

Family & Custom Travel Experiences: Purpose-driven trips rooted to Learn, Serve & Immerse, tailored for families (in most cases, itineraries accommodate children as young as 8) and private groups, designed to foster cultural understanding and global citizenship. These immersive journeys often include community engagement, hands-on service learning, and meaningful community interactions.

*Global Family Travels’ “farm stay and play” trip in Ecuador (photo: Global Family Travels)*

I am eyeing Global Family Travels’ family-friendly trips to Costa Rica. “Few destinations offer the fascinating abundance of this coastal country, both from a family friendly and an eco-tourism perspective. Costa Rica hosts more than 5 percent of the world’s biodiversity even though its landmass only takes up .03% of the Earth’s surface. The entire country is smaller than Lake Michigan. Meaning, it’s a place where travelers can easily see and experience a great deal during a visit.” The trips are tailored to offer a mix of cultural activities and participation in local service projects aimed at helping local conservation initiatives and improving the lives of people in the communities visited. (https://www.globalfamilytravels.com/post/costa-rica-conservation-learning-family-adventures)

Other popular programs:

Panama: participate in sea turtle conservation, cultural activities, marine ecosystems, and community based solutions

Peru: learning from Quechua elders and farmers, focus on traditional agriculture, environmental stewardship.

Educational Student Travel Programs: Transformative learning journeys for schools, universities, and youth groups that integrate academic themes with real-world experiences—ranging from climate action and biodiversity to cultural heritage and social justice.

Another category, geared more to adults is Wellness & Retreat Travel: Mindful retreats that combine yoga, healing practices, and connection to nature, designed to nurture personal growth and spiritual renewal. Popular destinations include Ladakh, Peru, and the Pacific Northwest.

In addition to scheduled programs, Global Family Travels offer:
Family GAP Year and Extended Travel Planning – planning an extended journey filled with cultural immersion experiences.

Travel Advisor Services: custom trip planning for families, multi-generational travel, individual adventurers, or spiritual seekers.

Destinations run A-Z, from: Africa, Bali, Belize, Bhutan, Bolivia, Chile, China,Costa Rica,Cuba,Ecuador, Galapagos Islands, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Japan, Ladakh, Mexico, Rwanda, Scotland, Thailand,Vietnam, Zimbabwe.

Global Family Travels.com, 425-371-7143, info@globalfamilytravels.com, globalfamilytravels.com

Join an Earthwatch Expedition to Assist Climate Researchers

Earthwatch is another company that offers programs that turn a summer vacation into a meaningful, impactful experience. It is one of the first companies that enables “citizen scientists” to join actual climate and environmental protection and conservation research projects.

“Since its founding in 1971, Earthwatch has been taking action to address global change through a time-tested model of citizen science and community engagement. By pairing volunteers from all sectors of society with researchers around the world, Earthwatch teams have helped to safeguard critical habitats, conserve biodiversity, and promote the sustainable use of natural resources.”

Earthwatch is working in nearly 30 countries and currently supporting more than 40 research projects globally

Named a top Sustainable Travel Tourism Organization, find the various expeditions you can join at https://earthwatch.org/expeditions/browse.

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© 2025 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Bluesky: @newsphotosfeatures.bsky.social X: @TravelFeatures Threads: @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Attractions, Cultural travel, Ecotourism, Heritage Travel, Indigenous Tourism

Native People’s Day on Oct. 14 and Native American Heritage Month in November Spark Interest in Indigenous Tourism

September 4, 2024 krubin723

*The Crazy Horse Memorial, Mickelson Trail, South Dakota, makes a profound statement about Native Americans © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

More and more people are finding comfort and wisdom in ancient ways and showing new respect and appreciation for indigenous culture and heritage, especially what they can teach us today about living sustainably and in harmony with nature and each other.

“The interest in Indigenous culture and history has been on the rise for a number of years,” states Elena Junes, Director of Program Operations for Road Scholar, and a member of the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo. “It is consistent with the rise in eco/sustainable and cultural tourism. Worldwide, although Indigenous peoples make up less than 5% of the total human population, traditional indigenous territories encompass between 22-25% of the world’s land surface, and they coincide with areas that hold 80-90% of the planet’s biodiversity. As travelers seek out new places to visit that are in line with sustainable/experiential tourism, they will find that they are often traveling to traditional indigenous areas. As Road Scholar visits these places, we will always do our best to provide responsible, beneficial experiences with the local communities.

And there are more and more opportunities to embark on this journey of discovery as (colonial) governments are showing new sense of responsibility in making restitution, providing the resources for economic development – infrastructure development and marketing – to enable tribal communities preserve what is left of the heritage and culture.

Metepenagiag Heritage Center in Miramichi, New Brunswick, Canada, tribal guide Marcus Alexander LaViolette
discusses how the Mi’kmaq would have lived, season by season © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Canada, which has made the most ambitious “Truth and Reconciliation” campaign with its indigenous communities, has excellent programs to link travelers to experiences. The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is a national non-profit Indigenous tourism industry organization established in 2015, tasked with growing and promoting the Indigenous tourism industry across the country. Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with groups and regions with similar mandates to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous tourism businesses in a respectful protocol. (For information, visit www.destinationindigenous.ca)

*Talaysay Tours guide Patrick explains the significance of the totem poles and gateway portals at Brockton Point during a Spoken Treasures” walking* *tour of Stanley Park© Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

“Sharing our stories and our history on cultural homeland is an integral part of the experience,” said Clyde Mansell, Tasmanian palawa Aboriginal Elder and founder of wukalina Walk, which is part of Discover Aboriginal Experiences Australia. “It also allows us to increase employment, involve our young people and contribute to our self-determination, by creating more opportunities for the palawa community.

“We’ve had comments over the years where guests have said it’s changed their lives and their whole thinking about how they should relate to Aboriginal people,” Mansell added.

Indeed, the indigenous tourism movement is part of the Sustainable/Responsible Tourism movement. It also dovetails with rising interest in Wellness Travel.

Indigenous healing offerings have gained prominence as part of the broader trend towards holistic wellness and the search for authentic, transformative experiences. These experiences draw on the wisdom and practices of indigenous cultures around the world, offering healing techniques that have been developed and passed down through generations. The interest in and drive behind these retreats are linked to an acknowledgement of indigenous healing practices, the holistic approach, and reconnection with the land, is a significant wellness travel trend, a study by Global Wellness Institute found. 

For example, at Wai Ariki Hot Springs, in Rotorua New Zealand you can discover the ancient healing methods of these indigenous cultures, from the deeply cultural touch of mirri mirri or romi romi massage to the revitalizing power of blessed stones and herbal remedies. Each experience is thoughtfully crafted incorporates local healers and wellness practitioners, herbal medicine practice and ceremonies that honor the community and the land. Asian traditional therapies and medicine are growing in popularity for the wellness traveler across the globe. Traditional Thai, Chinese & Ayurvedic Medicinal offerings encompass rich diagnostic protocols, herbal formulas, and treatment techniques as part of the guest experience.

Here are just a sampling of the plethora of indigenous experiences available to travelers around the world:

Road Scholar Integrates Immersive Indigenous Experiences into Cultural Programs

Road Scholar, which provides immersive, educational travel programs for seniors, has incorporated immersive indigenous cultural experiences in many of its programs.

“As an educational organization, Road Scholar strives to provide impactful experiences. We recognize that changing narratives will always inform our choice of experience. We choose to visit Indigenous communities and hear about their history and culture from the people who have the lived experience. Whenever possible, we include meals and activities with local community members as a way to encourage dialogue and enhance cultural discourse. When we visit archaeological sites, we include the voices of descendant communities as part of the educational content we provide. We recognize these sites not as “ruins” but as deeply personal and sacred spaces to the people whose ancestors resided there.”

Here is a collection of programs with Native American themes, but this is just a sampling. There are many other Road Scholar programs across the country and around that world that incorporate Indigenous culture and history, even when it’s not explicitly outlined in the itinerary:

In Oklahoma, Road Scholars visit Tahlequah, the capitol of the Cherokee Nation, for a presentation by a Cherokee artist, Traci Rabbit.

In New Mexico, Road Scholars visit the campus of the Institute of American Indian Arts, a congressionally chartered college for Native students, where a student shows them around campus. They also take in a presentation by Louie Hena, from Tesuque Pueblo, and a traditional meal with his family.

In Wisconsin, Road Scholars visit Wisconsin Point Indian Burial Ground with a local tribal historian and environmental scientists who gives a presentation on the history and culture of the area.

In Louisiana, participants visit the Chitimacha Museum to learn about the first inhabitants of the region through the study of artifacts and find out about the efforts to preserve their tribal language.

*Dalilah conducts a “What We Treasure” tour* of *Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

In British Columbia, participants visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler to learn from an Indigenous educator about First Nations history, customs, and traditions through dance, storytelling and material artifacts.

In Mexico, Road Scholars stop in a traditional village to get to know the traditions and lifestyle of the Mazahua indigenous people and learn how the women’s clothing helps them maintain their identity.

In Guatemala, participants ferry to Santiago La Laguna village to delve into the way of life of the indigenous community on the shores of Lake Atitlan.

In New Zealand, participants visit Te Puia, the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, to learn how young Maori train in the traditional Maori arts and crafts. Later they experience a hangi, the traditional Maori method of cooking food in the ground, accompanied by a Maori cultural performance that includes the “Haka” war dance.

Road Scholar is a university of the world inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel, www.roadscholar.org

Celebrate Indigenous People’s Day Where It was First Named a State Holiday: South Dakota

With Indigenous People’s Day fast approaching on Monday, October 14, there’s no better destination to honor and celebrate the holiday than in South Dakota, home to the third-largest Native American population in the US across nine Tribal Nations and the first state to officially replace Columbus Day with Native Americans’ Day as a state holiday in 1990.

One of the most profound monuments in South Dakota is Crazy Horse Memorial which, it is amazing to learn, is still being carved by the third generation of its original sculptor, Korczak Ziolkowski, and will soon be the largest mountain sculpture in the world (30x larger than neighboring Mount Rushmore). It was here that the first Native Americans’ Day celebration was held nearly 35 years ago. An incredible attraction and education center year-round, each Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration brings tradition, immersive performances, artist displays, storytelling, hands-on activities for children, and the naming the Crazy Horse Memorial Educator of the Year honored for significant contributions to Native American education.

*A vision of what the Crazy Horse Memorial, South Dakota, will look like; when completed it will be the largest mountain sculpture in the world © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

When completed, the Crazy Horse Mountain carving will be the world’s largest sculpture, measuring 563 feet high by 641 feet long, carved in the round. The nine-story high face of Crazy Horse was completed on June 3, 1998; work began on the 22-story high horse’s head soon after.

There is also a superb Museum of Native Americans of North America (it rivals the Smithsonian’s Museum in Washington DC) where you watch a terrific video that tells the story of the America’s indigenous people, and can visit the studio/home of the sculptor, Korczak Ziolkowski.

The visit was a highlight of my six-day Wilderness Voyageurs “Badlands and Mickelson Trail” bike tour of South Dakota. (See: DISCOVERING MARVELS OF CRAZY HORSE MEMORIAL ON BADLANDS, BLACK HILLS & MICKELSON TRAIL BIKE TOUR)

(Crazy Horse Memorial, 12151 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, SD, 605-673-4681, crazyhorsememorial.org.)

Access + Education: Travel South Dakota’s Great 8 for Native American Culture is an incredible itinerary to follow for indigenous tourism, with significant places, including: Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village, South Dakota’s only active archaeological site, and one of the most important in the Great Plains region according to the U.S. Department of the Interior; and Bear Butte State Park, Black Elk Peak and Sica Hollow State Park, all sacred sites to Native Americans. Other itineraries include the Native American Attraction Trail, and the Native American National and State Scenic Byway.

Powwows: While Powwows are available to find and attend throughout the state throughout the year, Rapid City is home to one of North America’s largest and premier Native American events, the Black Hills Powwow every October is where thousands of spectators engage with artisans, artists, championship singers and dancers, the He Sapa Win pageant and more.

Tour Companies:

Tatanka Rez Tours, based on the Pine Ridge Reservation, is the only Native American-owned tour company in South Dakota. Various tour packages give in-depth background on the Ogala Lakota Oyate tribe and provides an experience on the reservation that only those who live there can offer.

Black Hills Adventure tours teamed up with Tatanka Rez Tours to provide this nine-hour interactive cultural experience, where you listen to traditional stories and songs performed by Tatanka Rez Tours owners Guss, and Tianna and visit the Cultural Art Space, the Pine Ridge Chamber of Commerce, Thunder Valley, Pine Ridge, and the Red Cloud Indian School. Also, a Black Hills Monument Package departs Rapid City at 8:30am, travels to Mount Rushmore where guests can hike around the monument then to Crazy Horse Memorial, finishing with exploring Custer State Park to see wildlife close up.

Tours are available year-round.

Arts & Culture:

One of the most incredible ways to experience Native American Culture is through the The Lakota Music Project, the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra’s flagship Bridging Cultures Program. Created between 2005-2008, the Lakota Music Project (LMP) addresses a history of racial tension, builds bridges between Native and non-Native Americans, and creates an environment of openness through sharing music. Essentially, it is a practical demonstration between white and American Indian musicians to advance cultural understanding. The LMP concert program features combinations of South Dakota Symphony musicians, the Creekside Singers, a Lakota drumming group, and Dakota cedar flutist Bryan Akipa, each performing music of their heritages as well as unique repertoire commissioned for the musicians to play together.

*The Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post in Rapid City, South Dakota is more of a gallery than a store © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Visit Native American businesses such as Rapid City’s Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post and Dakota Drum Company, both of which feature the works of generational Native artists and artisans from buffalo hide canvas paintings to star quilts, bead work. Both are really more like galleries and are marvelous to visit.

For Native American flavors, try food-truck-turned-restaurant Watecha Bowl, known for Indian tacos, and Crow Peak Brewing both in Sioux Falls. Laughing Water Restaurant in Custer, on the site of Crazy Horse Memorial, is also known for its Custer Tatanka Stew made with prime cuts of tender Black Hills buffalo.

South Dakota’s Guide to Tribal Nations: Oceti Sakowin Homelands, a joint effort between the South Dakota Department of Tourism and South Dakota Native Tourism Alliance, is a great resource year-round featuring a map of tribal lands, brief history of each tribe, visitor etiquette suggestions, and educational opportunities.

TIME Names wukalina Walk in Tasmania, Australia to 2024 World’s Greatest Places List

wukalina Walk, a member of Discover Aboriginal Experiences, has been named one of TIME‘s 2024 World’s Greatest Places, an exclusive list of 100 extraordinary destinations to explore, stayand visit produced by its editors and correspondents around the world.

wukalina Walk is a multi-award winning Indigenous/palawa-owned tourism experience. Led by Aboriginal guides, the walk offers a rare window into Tasmania/lutruwita’s Aboriginal culture. For the first two nights, hikers sleep at the architecturally designed standing camp, krakani lumi (resting place), in domed-ceiling huts designed to reflect the shape of the palawa shelters that once lined the east coast of Tasmania/lutruwita. The third night is spent in a beautifully repurposed and restored lightkeeper’s cottage at the most northern end of larapuna (Bay of Fires).

A group of up to 10 people are led on foot by Aboriginal guides to learn about land and sea Country. wukalina guides have lived experience and thousands of generations of Ancestral connections to the knowledge they share. They share their knowledge and perspectives as they lead travelers through bushland and along the coastline of wukalina (Mt William National Park) and larapuna (Bay of Fires). Hikers learn about the colonial history of Tasmania/lutruwita, and the brutal treatment of the palawa people. But the tour highlights their resilience, strength of culture, language and the ongoing connection that the palawa community has to Country.

wukalina Walk is a proudly Blak-owned business and different to anything else offered in Tasmania, and anywhere in the world. wukalina Walk was winner of the 2023 Australian National Tourism Awards for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experience.

More Discover Aboriginal Experiences:

Discover Aboriginal Experiences is a flagship suite of some 200 Australian Aboriginal-guided experiences from 48 businesses around Australia. Travelers learn about and connect with the diverse histories, cultures and languages of Aboriginal peoples, which date back more than 65,000 years. Here is a sampling:

Jarramali Rock Art Tours explores a 20,000-year-old outback museum of rock art. The ‘Magnificent Gallery,’ in Quinkan Country near Laura, Far North Queensland, has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the 10 most significant rock-art sites in the world. Jarramali Rock Art Tours showcases the Quinkan rock art within the so-called ‘Magnificent Gallery’.

Kakadu National Park, in Kakadu, Northern Territory, is a World heritage-listedhome to Aboriginal peoples for more than 65,000 years. It is about half the size of Switzerland and a habitat for approximately a third of all bird species in Australia. Travelers can experience the park and its flora and fauna at night with an indigenous guide on a new Stargazing Boat tour, which intertwines the ancient wisdom of Bininj knowledge with classical constellations. Discover the night life and nocturnal sounds of the billabong while learning the history of the world as told in Dreaming stories and illustrated in the stars. Alternatively, spend time with the local Indigenous community on the new Kakadu Billabong Safari Camp tour.

Wula Gura Nyinda’s 3 day World Heritage Walking Tour at Shark Bay, Western Australia, is a new walking tour of two national parks located in the Shark Bay World Heritage area – Francois Peron National Park and Dirk Hartog Island. Learn about local Aboriginal culture and history, spot wildlife, explore spectacular natural landscapes and sit under the stars listening to the ancient sounds of the digeridoo. This is a rare opportunity to spend time on Country with an Indigenous guide and to really ‘feel Country’.

Wintjiri Wiru, a spectacular light show involving 1,000 drones and Anangu culture, at Uluru, Northern Territory, brings to life a chapter of the Mala ancestral story and was developed in close consultation with Anangu custodians. The show was designed and produced by world-renowned media architecture studio RAMUS, with the goal of illuminating the Central Desert with a spectacle of lights, projections and lasers shining on the spinifex and mulga. This is the first time this kind of technology has been used to share Anangu culture and is a new experience for Uluru.

Tali Wiru is fine dining under the Southern Desert sky, with Uluru as a backdrop. Each dish in a four-course meal showcases native produce in an innovative way, using Indigenous herbs and spices. A local Aboriginal storyteller shares insights about Anangu culture and history. Dinner might be pressed wallaby with fermented quandong, or roasted toothfish nestling beside coastal greens, desert oak and fermented muntries.

Discover Aboriginal Experiences, discoveraboriginalexperiences.com

NEW BRUNSWICK ROADTRIP: METEPENAGIAG HERITAGE CENTER HIGHLIGHTS MIRAMICHI VISIT

ON THE TRAIL TO DISCOVER VANCOUVER’S REVIVED INDIGENOUS HERITAGE

WALKING TOURS, DINING EXPERIENCES REVEAL VANCOUVER’S REVIVED INDIGENOUS HERITAGE

TRAIL TO DISCOVER BRITISH COLUMBIA’S INDIGENOUS HERITAGE WEAVES THROUGH WHISTLER-BLACKCOMB

DISCOVERING MARVELS OF CRAZY HORSE MEMORIAL ON BADLANDS, BLACK HILLS & MICKELSON TRAIL BIKE TOUR

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© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Adventure Travel, Camping/Hiking/Outdoors, Ecotourism, Family Travel, Nature, Wildlife, Outdoors Adventures

Planning a Family Safari in Africa? Go2Africa Expert Shares Her Tips

August 27, 2024 krubin723

An afternoon bush drive. Go2Africa can advise families on the most appropriate lodges and safaris (photo: Go2Africa)

by Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Families are increasingly looking for travel experiences that are enriching, inspiring, foster an appreciation for the natural and human world. Among the pinnacle family experiences is a trip to the Galapagos (which I did with my grown children on the Galapagos Legend, GoGalapagos.com, and will do again as a multi-generational family once my grandkids are old enough), and an African safari, which is a much more formidable to plan, especially when you have no prior experience in Africa or doing a safari.

Because of that, I really appreciated the recommendations from Go2Africa’s Maija De Rijk-Uys – recently recognized by Travel + Leisure as an A-List Specialist for family safaris in Eastern and Southern Africa – who pulled from her own experiences taking her two kids to the bush in preparing these tips for parents traveling with kids and recommendations for the best family-friendly lodges to book.

“Traveling with my family in Africa has been the most rewarding and enriching experience for all of us over the years,” Maija de Rijk-Uys reflected. “Utilizing an operator like Go2Africa that can help simplify your logistics takes the stress out of family travel and allows everyone to connect, enjoy their time together and learn from expert guides about nature and wildlife.”

Tips for Planning Family Safari Vacations

Give your family time to recover from long-haul travel: Families can benefit from splitting their trip between cities, camps, and beaches. Cities such as Cape Town offer many fun things to do as a family and the opportunity to recover from jet lag and adjust to new cultures and environments.

Opt for private vehicles when the budget affords: Some lodges insist on a private vehicle when traveling with young children, but where they don’t, Go2Africa advises opting for one anyway. When using a private vehicle on game drives, families can dictate exactly how long they stay at each sighting and how long they’re out in the bush—which will really come in handy if your little one gets restless.

Design an Age Appropriate Itinerary: A safari offers a variety of activities and experiences. Choosing the right ones based on children’s ages ensures fun and safety for the whole family.

*Asilia Africa’s Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Kenya (photo: Go2Africa)*

Traveling With Children 5-14 Years: When traveling with children younger than 15, choosing a lodge that offers closed or private vehicles, a junior rangers program, and professional guides who enjoy sharing the wilderness with youngsters is best. Children under 15 will love the excitement of nature walks, learning basic tracking skills, picnics in the bush, and spending time at the beach.

Traveling With Teenagers 15-18: Teens are mature enough to join parents for game drives in classic open safari vehicles and encounter the majestic mountain gorilla on gorilla treks in Uganda. If you have a sensitive teen, Go2Africa recommends discussing the possibility of witnessing dramatic predator-prey interactions you might see in the wild, especially in the Masai Mara and the Serengeti during the Great Wildebeest Migration. Your teen will come to understand that nature is all about balance, where hunters and prey are a necessary and normal part of the cycle of life.

Multi-Generational Families: East Africa offers something for every type of traveler, including hot-air balloon rides of the Masai Mara for older members and age-appropriate safari-themed programs for children. Best of all is sharing the experience together, bonding and building lifetime memories.

Work with an Expert, an African Safari Expert: Navigating the intricacies of planning a safari, from selecting the right destinations to arranging accommodations and transportation, can be overwhelming, especially for those unfamiliar with the region. A knowledgeable African safari expert can offer personalized recommendations tailored to the family’s preferences, while ensuring safety and comfort for all is a top priority. Moreover, they can often leverage their industry connections to secure exclusive deals, upgrades, and insider access, enhancing the overall value of the trip.

Choose the Right Safari Lodge for Your Family: Beyond merely providing accommodation, the right lodge can serve as a hub for adventure, education, and relaxation amidst the wilderness. A well-chosen lodge will offer activities suitable for various age groups, as well as amenities and services tailored to families, such as childcare facilities and kid-friendly meals, can significantly enhance comfort and convenience during the trip. The location and surroundings of the lodge also play a pivotal role, offering opportunities for wildlife encounters and immersive nature experiences.

I would suggest another consideration: ask what wildlife you are likely to see at the lodge, and if you have particular interest, choose accordingly.

Six Family-Friendly Safari Lodges

As a mother of two, Maija’s favorite kid-friendly safari combines classic game viewing in malaria-free destinations with family beach villas on tropical beaches. Here are her favorite child-friendly safari lodges for an African safari with kids:

*Cheetah Plains, South Africa (photo: Go2Africa)*

Cheetah Plains, South Africa: At Cheetah Plains in Sabi Sand, South Africa, game drives and interpretive walks with expert guides and trackers facilitate connection to the wild, fostering a love and appreciation for nature. Activities from scavenger hunts, tracking, baking and crafts keep young minds entertained, while adults can indulge in tastings and pairings, wellness treatments or simply relax. Preferential activities and interests are personalized for your safari by dedicated and knowledgeable field guides. A private electric safari vehicle allows you to travel solely with your group on your own schedule. Family-friendly villas are designed with thoughtful features like inter-leading suites and entertainment lounges equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Cheetah Plains is one of the only safari camps to allow children of all ages on game drives.

*Jibali Private House, Ruaha National Park, Tanzania (photo: Go2Africa)*

Jabali Private House, Ruaha National Park, Tanzania: Designed with families in mind, Jabali Ridge offers eight spacious suites seamlessly integrated among colossal granite boulders, providing an exclusive and remote atmosphere. Tailored safaris with morning and afternoon game drives, walking safaris, and kid-friendly photographic safaris are available upon request. Personalized family-focused adventures, homemade meals—including picnic breakfasts and gourmet dinner. Lounge in hammocks on wooden decks, or take refreshing dips in infinity pools, with stunning vistas of the expansive plains.

*The Elephant Camp, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (photo: Go2Africa)*

The Elephant Camp, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: Traditional safari ambiance meets eco-conscious luxury in one of the most breathtaking locations on earth: Elephant Camp in Victoria Falls. “Meet the Elephant” gives guests the opportunity to unobtrusively interact with some of the biggest personalities in Africa.

*Chiawa Camp, Zambia (photo: Go2Africa)*

Chiawa Camp, Zambia: Chiawa Camp, on the banks of the Zambezi River in the heart of the Lower Zambezi National Park, is a perfect family retreat for nature lovers. Families can embark on game drives (including enchanting night drives), guided walks, and river cruises. The camp’s family-friendly tents feature indoor and outdoor showers. Chiawa Camp also offers swimming pool, open-air gym, and diverse safari experiences.

*Somalisa Acacia, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe (photo: Go2Africa)*

Somalisa Acacia, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe: At Somalisa Acacia, families gather on the dining and relaxation deck overlooking a busy watering hole, and can sight kudu, cheetah, and wild dogs on game drives, and enjoy superior lodging in the intimate and luxurious safari camp. Ngwana Club (meaning “explorer” in Tswana), offers entertainment for kids during downtime: giving kids a chance to see conservation efforts in nearby villages, roam safe nature trails with trained staff, as well as enjoy boating, pizza-making, and jewelry crafting.

*Hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti (photo: Go2Africa)*

The Retreats, Tanzania: The Retreats at Sayari and Namiri are ideal for multigenerational and small groups, providing a private guide and vehicle, host, and dedicated chef who prepares special kids meals. Sayari Retreats, open June to March, and Namiri Plains Retreats opened year-round, share a pool, lounge and spacious deck with a sunken fire pit from which to enjoy expansive views across the Serengeti. Sayari offers walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris and cultural visits; guests are in the premier location to view thousands of wildebeest crash across the Mara River as part of their Great Migration from July to November. Sayari is renowned for its safari experience amidst the untouched plains of the northern Serengeti. Namiri Plains, in the eastern corner of the Serengeti, offers unparalleled privacy as no other camps are within an hour’s drive. Each property offers two en suite double bedrooms (additional beds can be added for children over five). Before Namiri Plains was built, these grasslands were closed for 20 years to allow the cheetah population to be restored. Guests can take part in game drives, walking safaris, and cheetah research and each group will have a private guide and safari vehicle allowing for flexibility and exclusivity in the experience.

For additional suggestions on the best places for a family safari with Go2Africa (go2africa.com) explore here (https://www.go2africa.com/african-travel-blog/multi-generational-luxury-lodges).

Five Family Friendly Safari Destinations to Visit in 2025

Personally vetted and selected, Go2Africa shares Managing Director Maija de Rijk-Uys’ Top 5 Bucket List Places for Family Travel in Africa.

Tanzania’s Rubondo Island: Rubondo Island Camp is a private island paradise. Nestled within a national park it is affectionately known as “Noah’s Ark” due to its astounding natural beauty and diversity. The island’s ecosystem includes giraffes, elephants, rhinos, and hippos, which can be viewed on thrilling game drives in private Land Rovers. While guided chimpanzee trekking is available for older teens and adults, younger children will delight in game drives, catch-and-release fishing, sunset cruises, and guided nature walks. Fishing enthusiasts can try to catch the famed Nile perch from a boat or the beach. The island’s luxury extends to its accommodations, where families can relax in Robinson Crusoe-style comfort.

*Shipwreck Lodge, the only lodge in Skeleton Coast National Park, Namibia (photo: Go2Africa)*

Namibia’s Skeleton Coast: One of Africa’s most unusual lodges, Shipwreck Lodge is the only lodge situated in the soul-stirring Skeleton Coast National Park, and the ideal place to stay to explore one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas. Nature drives in search of brown-hyena spoors provide educational opportunities for the kids to learn about the area’s desert elephants, giraffes, lions, and baboons. With stunning beaches and dunes on your doorstep providing endless opportunities for exploration, visitors enjoy leisurely walks to the ocean, while those seeking excitement should try quad biking on the untouched dunes. A visit to the Mowe Bay seal colony is a family favorite. The journey includes stops at the historic Karimona and Suiderkus shipwrecks. Keeping an eye out for intriguing skeletons and bones scattered along the way. adds an extra layer of adventure and discovery to your family safari.

*Marataba Safari Lodge, South Africa (photo: Go2Africa)*

Marataba Safari Lodge in South Africa: Marataba Safari Lodge is nestled in the stunning Waterberg Mountains. Marataba is malaria-free, providing a safe and serene environment, making it a perfect alternative to other popular safari destinations like Kruger National Park, especially for families with young children or multi-generational groups. The family-tented suite features a spacious main suite and a room with bunk beds that kids enjoy. The Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure Safari Club is a hit with children aged 5-11, offering activities like exploring the Eco Garden, animal tracking, bush camping and movie nights under the stars. A family favorite is the water safari on Marataba’s Matlabas River aboard the boat Miss Mara, especially magical during an African sunset.

Ol Pejeta, Kenya: Asilia Africa’s Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, located on the banks of Kenya’s Ewaso Nyiro River in the Laikipia region offers breathtaking views of Mount Kenya and a thriving wildlife population. Ol Pejeta Conservancy is home to the last remaining northern white rhinos. Ol Pejeta Bush Camp welcomes children over 5 years old and offers a variety of child-friendly activities. Early morning game drives and bush breakfasts provide a perfect start to the day, while night drives offer a chance to spot elusive creatures like aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, and leopards. The Ol Pejeta Conservancy rangers organize the ‘Running the Wild’ experience every Wednesday morning – where guests get to run alongside the rangers, followed by coffee and conversations about the reserve’s conservation efforts. Families can visit the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the only place in Kenya to see these endangered chimps.

The Wild Coast, South Africa: The allure and captivating essence of the coast found in the rolling hills, the wild sea, the vibrant nature, the lagoons and the people, keep Maijas and her family returning every September for the last eight years. This destination offers swimming, hiking, mountain biking, bodyboarding, and building sandcastles on the beautiful beach. Rock pools host interesting marine life and the lagoon is a perfect place to SUP, kayak and snorkel. GweGwe Beach Lodge is a great option for families with its laidback luxury, locally inspired design, and supervised child-friendly area with games and entertainment. This is one of the few places in the world to watch a whale lobtailing and zebra or buck graze while a pod of dolphins surf a wave. Tasty farm-to-table meals are served with your feet in the sand. The lodge offers spacious and comfortable family suites wellness treatments, picnics, and guided marine or botany walks.

More information: Go2Africa, 1-866-438-8677, go2africa.com.

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© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @TravelFeatures Threads @news_and_photo_features ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Camping/Glamping/RVs, Ecotourism, Historic Places, National Parks, New York City travel, Places of History

Governors Island: a Destination, a Getaway, a Retreat from/in New York City

June 16, 2024 krubin723

*Enjoy biking or pedaling around Governors Island © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

Governors Island has become a destination all its own, where just 8 minute ferry ride away from Battery Park or Brooklyn, New Yorkers can feel as if they have traveled far, far away in both time and place.Just 800 yards off the southern tip of Manhattan, the 172-acre island is a world away.

*Governors Island, a short ferry ride from Manhattan or Brooklyn, affords the best views of Manhattan © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

You can rent bikes, pedal coaches, visit the 200-year old Castle Williams, a 22-acre National Monument managed by the National Park Service and learn its history (it helped save New York from British Invasion during the War of 1812 and was used as a prison during the Civil War and Fort Jay. The island had been a military base – my father was based there during World War II, and now is a Coast Guard headquarters). Biking around the island, you have the best view of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

*Tour the 200-year old Castle Williams, a 22-acre National Monument managed by the National Park Service and learn its history on Governors Island © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Governors Island was originally an egg-shaped rock covered in nut trees, utilized as a fishing and ground for the Lenape tribe and early New York settlers. Governors Island’s long military history began when the colonial militia constructed an earthen-work fort, later to become Fort Jay, in 1775. Castle Williams, the second of three historic forts on the Island, was built in 1811, and with the other two forts that defended New York’s Harbor, successfully discouraged the British from invading during the War of 1812.

The island is in the midst of a transformation from an abandoned former military base to a year-round destination for recreation, culture and innovation.

*Volunteers maintain the gardens on Governors Island © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Today, Governors Island has been revitalized as an award-winning park and laboratory for sustainability and cultural enrichment, with year-round educational and cultural facilities and programming.

A key area is The Hills, rising 70 feet above sea-level, offering breathtaking – and never-before-seen – views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor.

*Governors Island, just off the tip of Manhattan, affords the best views of the Statue of Liberty © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Slide Hill, rising 40 feet, has four slides, including New York City’s longest slide at 57 feet. Grassy Hill, rising 25 feet, offers gentle slopes and views overlooking 30 acres of the new park. Discovery Hill, rising 40 feet, features ornamental trees and shrubs, as well as Cabin, a permanent site-specific installation by acclaimed British artist Rachel Whiteread, commissioned through Governors Island Arts. Outlook Hill, rising 70 feet, offers both a winding, accessible path to a plaza at its summit, and a granite ‘scramble’ for those who seek a quicker ascent, and be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Statue of Liberty, New York harbor, Verrazano-Narrows bridge and city skyline.

Collective Retreats Glamping on Governors Island

And now you can even stay on the island and turn the adventure into a real getaway.

*Collective Retreats offers a variety of luxury glamping accommodations on Governors Island including tents and tiny houses © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Collective Retreats, based in Colorado, operates a luxury glamping retreat with tents and tiny-home-style accommodations, enhanced with morning yoga; spa offerings at QC NY (located adjacent to Retreat); live music every evening; cocktail hour on the sunset terrace; chef-driven farm-to-table dining; and Historic Governor’s island adventuring by bike.

Accommodations have everything you’d expect from a five-star hotel: from plush beds with high thread count linens to bathrooms with luxury bath amenities. Daily continental breakfast baskets, filled with yogurt, fresh fruit, pastries, juice, and protein bar is delivered to your tent, and farm-to-table, wood-fired dinners are available every evening at its Three Peaks restaurant.

The retreat features a variety of accommodations: Summit Tents, with king-size bed or two single beds made up with high-thread-count linens, private en-suite bathrooms, plush towels, boutique bathroom amenities, and private decks with Adirondack chairs; smaller Journey Tents with king or two twin configuration, fine linens, plush towels, various in-tent amenities and communal bathrooms; Outlook Shelters, which are like tiny homes fully sheltered from the elements with climate control, with bedroom, en suite bathroom with luxury spa soaking tub, a living/lounge space with coffee table, as well as mini bar / mini fridge and two private decks with Adirondack chairs.

Both overnight and non-overnight guests are invited to enjoy its Wood-Fire Grill menu and a la carte menus in addition to an extensive selection of specialty beer, classic cocktails, and wine offerings. Walk-ins are welcomed for dinner. Pair any dining option with a classic cocktail, wine, or beer from The Sunset Terrace Bar.

More info: https://www.collectiveretreats.com/governors-island/

You can see massive restoration going on all around the island, with a goal to expand year-round public access by enlivening it with transformative public art and culture, extraordinary recreational and open space, and research and education dedicated to addressing the global climate crisis.

*Once lodgings for military officers, Governors Island houses are being restored to house art , cultural and educational programs © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Governors Island is open to the public daily year-round (pay attention to the ferry schedule). From Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend, the Island is open from 7am-10pm Sunday through Thursday and 7am-11pm Friday and Saturday, with the South Island Park (including Picnic Point, the Hills, Hammock Grove, and the Play Lawns) closing at 6pm every day. All other times, the Island is open daily from 7am-6pm.

From Manhattan: Ferries operated by the Trust for Governors Island run daily from the Battery Maritime Building, located at 10 South Street in Lower Manhattan. Click here for schedules and tickets. Evening ferries are available for Governors Island tenants and guests, which includes visitors to QC NY, Island Oyster, Taco Vista, and Gitano. Tickets to evening ferries can only be purchased in person at the Battery Maritime Building.

From Brooklyn: Seasonal ferries operated by the Trust for Governors Island run Saturdays, Sundays, and Holiday Mondays from May 25-September 2, 2024 from two Brooklyn locations: Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park and Red Hook/Atlantic Basin. Click here for schedules and tickets.

The Trust for Governors Island operates theseferries, and you can purchase tickets on the Governors Island website https://www.govisland.com/plan-your-visit/ferry.

NYC Ferry, the City’s public ferry service, also serves Governors Island daily year-round,with stops on the Lower East Side, Wall Street, and along the Brooklyn waterfront..For to the NYC NYC Ferry site (click here) for NYC Ferry information, ticketing, and schedules.

For more information, www.govisland.com, info@govisland.org.

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Adventure Travel, Cultural travel, Ecotourism, Heritage Travel, Outdoors Adventures, Responsible Travel, Summer Vacations, Sustainable Travel

Coast to Coast, Canada’s Heritage, Culture, Wilderness Beckon Ecotourists in Summer

June 10, 2024 krubin723

*Celebrating a birthday at Salmon n’Bannock, Vancouver’s original indigenous restaurant © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Edited by Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

From coast to coast, Canada’s heritage, culture, wilderness beckon ecotourists this summer.

Experience Indigenous Cultures in British Columbia

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, culminating in National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, but all summer long, British Columbia offers any number of ways to experience histories, traditions and values of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Indigenous tourism encourages visitors to understand and respect different perspectives of the world, and to experience histories, traditions, and values in an authentic and unfiltered way.

British Columbia has the greatest diversity of Indigenous cultures in Canada: of the 12 unique Indigenous language families in the country, seven are located exclusively in BC. Together, there are 204 unique Indigenous communities in BC. Here are 11 ways to engage in Indigenous experiences in British Columbia this summer.

A Three-Hour Song, Dance & Cultural Experience – During festivals, weddings, and potlatches, the Tla-o-qui-aht People come together to share a wholesome meal while exchanging wisdom and stories, with the belief that good food facilitates an easier reception to teachings. Visitors can join the tradition at the Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort in Tofino, where the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation will host naaʔuu (which means “feast” in the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation language), an immersive experience taking place on select dates in June. The three-hour experience tells stories from the Nation’s history through song, dance, and traditional carvings, presented during a symphony of cultural delicacies and foraged ingredients. Proceeds go back to the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation to support language and cultural resurgence. Tickets start at $199 per person and can be purchased here. (Get there: From Vancouver, fly into Tofino-Long Beach Airport with Pacific Coastal Airlines, or right into Tofino Harbour with Harbour Air. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo or Comox and drive approximately 3.5 hours to Tofino).

*naaʔuu expereince at Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort in Tofino (photo: Indigenous Tourism BC/Melissa Renwick)*

Indigenous tour operators lead visitors into their traditional territory, providing a new perspective of local wildlife, plants, and waters:

Guided nature adventures led by the local Nation – Explore Ahousaht territory with Ahous Adventures, which is owned by a nation that has stewarded the lands and waters of Vancouver Island since time immemorial. The popular hot springs tour cruises the coast and inlets of Clayoquot Sound, with guides pointing out wildlife along the way. Once onshore, guests take a 30-minute walk via wooden boardwalk through old-growth rainforest, leading to the healing mineral waters of the hot springs. Throughout the journey, guides will discuss the history and cultural significance of Hot Springs Cove, a site that has been used for centuries by the Ahousat Nation for medicinal and spiritual benefits. Dates: Tours are available throughout summer and beyond.

Cruise an Island Archipelago – Sidney Whale Watching, serving Sidney (just 30 minutes from Victoria, BC) and the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island, is owned and operated by the Tsawout First Nation, with whale-watching experiences taking place on the traditional territories of the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation. The three-hour whale watching tour cruises through the Gulf Island Archipelago, winding past orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles hunting for salmon. Sidney Whale Watching has a 95% whale-sighting rate throughout the year; if guests don’t spot a whale, they are welcome to join another tour free of charge, anytime. Dates: Whale-watching tours take place daily between March and October.

*A group with Takaya Tours, rowing a traditional First Nations canoe in Deep Cove (photo: Destination BC/Hubert Kang)*

Take a cultural tour in a 35′ canoe – Takaya Tours, based in Whey-ah-wichen, or Cates Park, in North Vancouver, leads guests through the territory of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. Guests can paddle the protected waters of Indian Arm in replica ocean-going canoes, while guides share songs and stories of ancient villages. There’s also an option to add a rainforest walking tour to your paddling adventure. Dates: The Cates Park location is open between May and September for guided tours, as well as rentals of kayak, surf-skis, and stand-up paddleboards.

BC Tourism Industry Awards Best Indigenous Tourism Operator Winner 2024 – Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours, which stewards the grizzly bear population in Bute Inlet—the ancestral home of the Homalco Nation—welcomes visitors to discover the area’s longstanding cultural and historical significance. The company’s full-day bear-watching and cultural tour leads guests to viewing areas that showcase grizzlies feeding on spawning salmon, along with plenty of opportunities to whale watch and bird watch. Guests can also wander through Aupe, an uninhabited Homalco village site. Dates: Tours are offered between August and October.

2023 Yelp Travelers Choice – Sea Wolf Adventures, which leads tours in the Broughton Archipelago and the Great Bear Rainforest, on Musgamakw Dzawada’enuxw Nation territory, combines cultural experiences with grizzly- and whale-watching safaris. The Grizzly Bears of the Wild tour connects guests with the iconic grizzly inhabitants of the Great Bear Rainforest, with bonus viewings of Pacific white-sided dolphins, eagles, orcas, and other wildlife. The full-day tour departs from Port McNeill, and includes Indigenous interpretations of local landscapes, as well as stories about the Musgamakw Dzawada’enuxw People. Dates: Tours run from May 31 through October.

*Skwachays Lodge, Canada’s first aboriginal art hotel, affords the nearest thing to staying in a First Nations community you might find in a major modern city © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Try Plant Medicine Lemonade – Opened in February 2024, The Ancestor Café in Fort Langley brings traditional Indigenous nourishment to locals and visitors while supporting Indigenous food sovereignty. The eatery is owned by Chef Sarah Meconse Mierau, a member of the Sayisi Dene Nation. On the menu: bison and elk Bannock tacos, handcrafted plant-medicine jams and lattes, and other delicacies made with traditional Indigenous ingredients. Beyond the food, the café features a fair-trade gallery displaying works by local Indigenous artists and brands.

Indigenous-owned and operated accommodation welcome visitors come into their community to experience warm hospitality alongside stories and culture—all with a deep-rooted respect for nature:

Gorge Harbour Marina Resort – One of the most desirable cruising destinations in BC – Located at the edge of Desolation Sound, on Klahoose Nation land, Gorge Harbour Marina Resort offers an idyllic home base for adventurers eager to explore the sound, Cortes Island, and the Discovery Islands. The resort offers a multitude of overnight options, including a rustic lodge with four rooms, a cottage enclosed by lush gardens, and two self-contained trailers. Summer-specific options include 21 full-service RV sites, six glamping domes, and six tent sites—open for the season now. Summer activities span live music on the waterfront, yoga at the harbour, family movie nights, as well as whale-watching tours offered between May 1 and October 15. (Get there: Take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo, then drive 1 hour and 45 minutes to Campbell River. From here, take a 10-minute ferry to Quadra Island, then a 45-minute boat trip to Cortes Island. You can also fly direct to the resort from Campbell River, Vancouver, or Seattle, Washington.)

Nemiah Valley Lodge – Off-grid & highly requested – Open year round, Nemiah Valley Lodge is located in the Chilcotin region, on Tŝilhqot’in Nation land. Here, guests are immersed in the food, history, and traditions of the Xeni Gwet’in community through local events, cultural experiences, and wildlife viewing. The all-inclusive packages include lodge activities such as lakeside yoga and meditation, canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, archery. Note: Nemiah Valley is taking bookings for 2025. (Get there: The lodge is a 30-minute floatplane ride from Whistler. Alternatively, take a flight from Vancouver International Airport to Williams Lake (available throughout the summer), and drive 2.5 hours to your destination. The lodge also offers a transfer from Williams Lake.)

*Talaysay Walking Indigenous Tours experience in Stanley Park in Vancouver (photo: Destination Vancouver/Kindred & Scout)*

Tsawaak RV Resort – A 2024 Indigenous Tourism Award Winner – Whether you’re seeking a cozy wilderness cabin or a place to park your RV, Tsawaak RV Resort— located in Tofino, on Tla-o-qui-aht Nation land—offers a tranquil space for rest and rejuvenation. Guests can choose from 34 RV sites and 13 longhouse-style cedar cabins—all situated close to Mackenzie Beach and a 30-minute walk from town. The central amenities building offers laundry facilities and vending machines, while the visitor center houses an art gallery and retail shop. The resort provides easy access to Tofino’s most popular adventures, including surfing, hot springs, and hiking. (Get there: From Vancouver, fly into Tofino-Long Beach Airport with Pacific Coastal Airlines, or right into Tofino Harbour with Harbour Air. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo or Comox and drive approximately 3.5 hours to Tofino.)

Spirit Bear Lodge – Located in the largest, temperate coastal rainforest in the world – Wildlife viewing and cultural experiences take centre stage at Spirit Bear Lodge, located in Klemtu, on Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation land. The lodge’s all-inclusive adventures are anchored by visits to cultural sites of the Kitasoo Xai’xai People, who have lived for thousands of years in the Great Bear Rainforest—the largest temperate coastal rainforest in the world. Guests can search for the elusive Spirit bear, watch grizzlies roam lush estuaries, see whales and other marine life, and explore the remnants of ancient villages. Open from August to October, with limited reservations available. (Get there: Board a flight at Vancouver International Airport with Pacific Coastal Airlines to Bella Bella. You’ll be met by Spirit Bear Lodge staff and shuttled to the dock, where a lodge boat will take you on the two-hour journey to Klemtu.)

*Wildlife viewing experience at Spirit Bear Lodge (photo: Indigenous Tourism BC*)

For more authentic Indigenous experiences in British Columbia visit www.indigenousbc.com

Nova Scotia Hosts Worldwide Celebration of Acadian Heritage

This August 10-18, Nova Scotia will host the Congrés mondial acadien (CMA), a worldwide celebration that takes place every five years and brings together the Acadian diaspora from around the world for musical events, culinary and cultural attractions and family gatherings. Several major outdoor concerts featuring noted Acadian artists are scheduled, including Canada’s National Acadian Day on August 15. From the brightly painted houses of Yarmouth and picturesque views of seaside villages like Belliveau Cove and Pointe-de-l’Eglise, visitors will find vivid reminders of the French settlers who first claimed Nova Scotia as their home in the early 1600s. The CMA reunites and welcomes communities, families, and visitors to the province to honor Acadian history and to commemorate the thousands displaced in 1755 when the Acadian people were expelled from the province by the British for not taking a vow of loyalty to King George III. (https://cma2024.ca/en/).

Throughout the summer, there are important Acadian historic sites to visit in Nova Scotia:

Grand Pré National Historic Site: Open from May 17 to October 14, the Grand Pré National Historic Site is a powerful way to discover the history of l’Acadie (a historical Acadian village in Nova Scotia settled from 1682 to 1755), its people and its culture. The location is a monument that unites the Acadian people, and for many, it is the heart of their ancestral homeland. Guided tours lead visitors through the center of this Acadian settlement and where they can learn about the history of the mass deportation of the Acadians, “Le Grand Derangement,” that began in 1755. This tragic event continues to shape the vibrant culture of modern-day Acadians across the globe. Tours are available in July and August.

*Explore the oldest Acadian region still inhabited by descendants of its founder in Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle Ecosse.*

Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse: Explore the oldest Acadian region still inhabited by descendants of its founder in Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse. Founded in 1653 by Sieur Philippe Mius-d’Entremont, the village is a breathtaking, 17-acre space overlooking Pubnico Harbour. Attractions include historical buildings and original 19th century wooden homes like Duon House and Maximin d’Entremont House, a lighthouse and local cemetery, nature trails with natural fauna and flora indigenous to the area, and opportunities to learn about the historic Acadian fishing and farming traditions.

Rendez-vous de la Baie Visitor Centre: Open year-round and located on the campus of Université Sainte-Anne in Clare, Rendez-vous de la Baie Visitor Centre is an Acadian cultural and interpretive center. Attractions include an artist-run gallery, a souvenir boutique, a 263-seat performance theatre, and an outdoor performance area. Travelers can experience the interpretive center and museum which delve into the Acadian peoples’ history through multimedia displays of music and language with free guided tours available. The venue is also a trailhead for a three-mile network of walking trails leading to the breathtaking Nova Scotian coast (guided walking tours available).

More information: Nova Scotia, www.novascotia.com

New Brunswick’s Acadian Heritage and new Travel Experiences

Another place to experience Acadian heritage is in New Brunswick, just across the strait from Nova Scotia:

Historic Acadien Village is an open air living history museum with costumed (fully bilingual) interpreters who recreate the roles of real people. What makes this place so extraordinary, though, is that you walk a 2.2 km circuit through 200 years of history – the 40 buildings represent a different time, the oldest from 1773 up to 1895, then, you walk through a covered bridge built in 1900 into the 20^th century village where the buildings date from 1905 to 1949. As you walk about, you literally feel yourself stepping across the threshold back in time.

You not only visit but can actually book a room to stay at the Hotel Chateau Albert (1910). Albert opened hotel in 1870 but had financial problems from the beginning and was put out of business by Canadian Pacific railroad.. The building was destroyed in a fire in 1955, and restored using the original plans. It now offers 14 rooms (with bathrooms) that you actually can book to stay overnight. (hotelchateaualbert.com, 506-726-2600).

Historique Acadien Village, 5 rue du Pont, Bertrand, NB, 1-0877-721-2200, vha@gnb.ca, villagehistoriqueacadien.com

*Metepenagiag Heritage Center displays how the Mi’kmaq would have lived, season by season © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Also in New Brunswick, Metepenagiag is an active archaeological site and research center where artifacts unearthed have provided proof the Mi’kmaq have been occupying this land for at least 3,000 years. When you first walk into the exhibition building, you can look into the lab where researchers examine artifacts. Some of the items, like a 1200-year old Earthenware pot, arrowheads and other items are on display.

What is more, you can overnight in a tipi (glamping), cabin or lodge, have a First Nations dining experience, storytelling and be immersed in the 3,000-year heritage around a campfire. Or take part in “A Taste of Metepenagiag” and learn about foods and cooking techniques. New experiences are also being developed.The Mi’kmaq operate SP First Nations Outdoor Tours, authentic indigenous experiences that begin with a traditional welcome, a river tour by canoe or kayak, storytelling; and authentic First Nations dining and accommodations (56 Shore Road, Red Bank NB, Metepenagiag, 506-626-2718).

Metepenagiag Heritage Park, 2156 Micmac Road, Red Bank NB, 506-836-6118, info@metpark.ca 1-888-380-3555, metpark.ca.

In 2024, New Brunswick, the Atlantic Canadian province just over the Maine border, unveils novel experiences for visitors including new ways to explore the capital city of Fredericton, dining the bottom of the ocean floor at the Bay of Fundy, a revitalization of a favorite gathering spot in Canada’s oldest city, Saint John, and 60th anniversary celebrations of the FDR International Park on Campobello Island.

Visitors to Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park this year can not only observe the natural phenomenon of low and high tides alternating as much as 40-plus feet, they can also dine on the ocean floor © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Dining on the Ocean Floor: Visitors to Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park this year can not only observe the natural phenomenon of low and high tides alternating as much as 40-plus feet, they can also dine on the ocean floor. In 2024, Hopewell Rocks will offer its new culinary adventure: “Dining on the ocean floor”. Travelers will relish in the magic of dining among some of the most extraordinary rock formations in the world with a private, locally sourced three-course meal and specialties served from Magnetic Hill Winery in Moncton. After enjoying cuisine by the sea, park-goers can return the next day at no additional admission cost, which starts at $15.85 CAD, to behold both high and low tides. For more information about Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park and updates about dining on the ocean floor, visit https://www.thehopewellrocks.ca/.

Coffee Connoisseur Tour with Barista Brian: Home to top attractions like Odell Park, Boyce Farmers Market, and Beaverbrook Art Gallery, Fredericton, New Brunswick, is also an ideal location for coffee lovers wishing to expand their knowledge and taste buds. For a new way to explore the city, visitors can join internationally celebrated latte artist Barista Brian on the new “Coffee Connoisseur” walking tour. Brian has earned his title while decorating lattes for attendees of the Sundance and Toronto International film festivals and for multiple Hollywood celebrities. Participants will sip, savor, and learn about locally roasted coffee at four independent coffee shops in the capital. Barista Brian is famous for his renowned latte art creations and has produced multiple latte portraits of celebrities including Meryl Streep, Conan O’Brien, Jennifer Lopez, Kristen Stewart, and more. While touring, Brian will provide education about everything from single origin beans to sustainable coffee, the history of coffee, and how to properly taste. Attendees will enjoy tastings of several coffee drinks such as a blend, delicious espresso, single roast, and will finish off with a latte displaying the handcrafted art of Brian. For more information about Barista Brian and his work, head to https://www.baristabrian.com/. To purchase tour tickets and view available dates, https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/coffee-connoisseur-tour-with-barista-brian-tickets-764462898107.

Campobello Island’s FDR International Park Celebrates 60th Anniversary: A symbol of international cooperation, the Franklin D. Roosevelt International Park on Campobello Island is jointly administered, staffed, and funded by the people of Canada and the United States. In 2024, the landmark is celebrating its 60th year standing as a representation of global collaboration. Throughout the month of July, special anniversary festivities will unfold amidst the breathtaking views of the New Brunswick Island connected to Maine by bridge. The former U.S. president and his family would spend their summers on Campobello Island, and visitors can now experience the former 34-room summer mansion firsthand. Given as a wedding gift to Franklin and Eleanor in 1908 by Franklin’s mother Sara Roosevelt, the cottage quickly became a key piece of the couple’s beloved island. Activities include “Tea with Eleanor” in the backyard and guided tours. For further details and event updates, visit https://www.rooseveltcampobello.org/.

Market Square Boardwalk Revitalization: In Uptown Saint John, Canada’s oldest incorporated city, the Market Square Boardwalk will show off a new look in 2024. It is now known as Ihtoli-maqahamok (The Gathering Space), chosen through a community process between Saint John citizens, the Civic Commemoration Committee, Common Council, City of Saint John staff, and consultation with First Nations’ leaders from The Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick. The boardwalk has undergone a rejuvenation that includes a larger 360-degree stage with increased public space for live performances, tidal steps leading to the Bay of Fundy, and the installation of a winter outdoor skating surface that will convert to a verdant green space in the summer. The restaurants of Market square were also upgraded with glass-panel installations, creating patios with year-round dining. Ihtoli-magahamok (The Gathering Space) draws its design inspiration from the three foundations of Saint John: its people, the water, and the rugged rocks that define the city’s character. To learn more about the reimagined Market Square Boardwalk, head to https://saintjohn.ca/en/parks-and-recreation/ihtoli-maqahamok-gathering-space

Travel planning assistance from Tourism New Brunswick, 800-561-0123, www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca.

Summer is a 5 Sensory Season in Newfoundland and Labrador

From the rolling waves lapping off the coastline to the colorful clotheslines dancing in the ocean breeze, Newfoundland and Labrador is home to the slow way of life, especially when the seasons change. As spring rolls into summer, regular visitors to the province return, including the whales, birds and icebergs that heighten all senses. Visitors can experience the first sunrise in North America, witness the migration and play of whale species that return to the shores each year, and taste food foraged from land and sea. For relaxation, guests can soak in the bounty of the ocean in a bath with seaweed gathered off the coast of Grates Cove, go for a cold-water dip in the many outdoor locations including the North Atlantic Ocean, or sit and listen to the push and pull of the beach rocks as they roll with the waves.

Sea of Whales Adventures: The Atlantic Ocean surrounding Newfoundland and Labrador boasts as many as 22 diverse whale species. Just off the Bonavista Peninsula, travelers will smell the ocean breeze and be humbled by the spectacle of whale species like humpbacks, sperm, orcas, feeding, migrating, and playing on Sea of Whales Adventures whale watching boat tours. Family owned and operated since 2009, Sea of Whales Adventures offers three-hour whale watching tours daily from May 15 to October 14 and two-hour tours daily from June 15 to September 3. The two-hour tour rates start at $90 CAD for adults and $60 CAD for children, while the three-hour tour rates start at $110 CAD for adults and $80 for children.

*Family owned and operated since 2009, Sea of Whales Adventures offers three-hour whale watching tours daily*

Preserving the Dark Sky: Terra Nova National Park, the first designated Dark Sky Preserve in the province, allows travelers to gaze into the cosmos untouched by light pollution. Under the Dark Sky Preserve Program, the park is committed to protecting and improving nocturnal ecology by adjusting, retrofitting, or eliminating light fixtures while delivering new educational and interpretive programs on astronomy and various dark sky themes. The most popular viewing locations include Sandy Pond, rated to have the darkest skies in the park, Ochre Hill, historically used as a fire-watch station, Blue Hill, the highest point in the park putting guests among the stars, and Visitor Centre, with the starlit sky reflected across the water. New in 2024, UNESCO World Heritage Site Gros Morne National Park is applying to the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada for designation as a Dark Sky Preserve, offering visitors even more unaltered space to bask in the celestial views.

Wild Island Kitchen: Open year round, Wild Island Kitchen offers travelers the chance to dine aside breathtaking seascapes listening to the crashing waves while wild and sustainably caught seafood is cooked over an open fire. The locally owned tour and culinary group provides menus that change daily based on what is foraged and discovered each day, with guides teaching guests how to cook and prepare the cuisine. The “From Sea to Plate” Tour features sustainable, high-quality seafood cooked with water from the sea and cooked over an open fire, and guests can expect four to five courses over a three-hour period. For a shorter, one-hour experience, visitors can book the “Mug-Up” Tour which typically departs at 10 a.m. and includes a trip down the cove for a cup of tea or coffee and an interpretative food journey inspired by traditional coastal delights. Tour rates start at $175 CAD, but guests are encouraged to email experiencetwillingate@gmail.com for specific pricing per tour. Pre-booking is required for both culinary experiences.

Grates Cove Seaweed Baths: In the northernmost part of Newfoundland and Labrador, weary travelers can soak in a seaweed bath at Grates Cave Co. Known for its healing and rejuvenating properties, seaweed is harvested off the coast of Grates Cove and transformed into 7 Fathoms skincare, producing a high-quality, highly bioactive brown seaweed extract suited for personal care. Grates Cove Co. uses the product, densely packed with essential nutrients and minerals, for the fresh seaweed baths in the comfort of the bathhouse overlooking the North Atlantic. The bathhouse is bookable from Monday to Sunday for two-hour time slots from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 2-4 p.m., and 5-7 p.m., and the price per couple is $110 CAD + HST (Harmonized Sales Tax).

More information: Newfoundland and Labrador, www.newfoundlandlabrador.com

WALKING TOURS, DINING EXPERIENCES REVEAL VANCOUVER’S REVIVED INDIGENOUS HERITAGE

TRAIL TO DISCOVER BRITISH COLUMBIA’S INDIGENOUS HERITAGE WEAVES THROUGH WHISTLER-BLACKCOMB

NEW BRUNSWICK ROADTRIP: EXPLORING FRENCH ACADIA’S CULTURE, HERITAGE BY BIKE!

NEW BRUNSWICK ROADTRIP: METEPENAGIAG HERITAGE CENTER HIGHLIGHTS MIRAMICHI VISIT

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© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us atfacebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

Ecotourism, New York State travel, Outdoors Adventures, Star Gazing

Photo Highlights: Total Solar Eclipse Above Long Lake, in New York’s Adirondacks is Stellar

April 12, 2024 krubin723

In the path of totality of the Solar Eclipse, April 8, 2024, at Long Lake, in New York State’s Adirondacks © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

By Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate, goingplacesfarandnear.com

With a huge swath of New York State in the path of totality for the April 8, 2024 Solar Eclipse, we headed to the Adirondacks, cleverly basing ourselves at The Lorca on Indian Lake, which was scheduled to have totality for two minutes, with a plan to drive 30 minutes further to Long Lake, which was scheduled for totality to last a full minute longer, 3 minutes, 1 second, beginning at 3:24 pm, where we based out of the historic (140 years!) Adirondack Hotel, right on the lake.

That proved fortuitous, because though totality spanned a 124-mile wide path stretching from Chautauqua-Allegheny to the majestic Niagara Falls in Greater Niagara, over the pristine Finger Lakes, mighty Adirondacks, and magical Thousand Islands-Seaway, and while Niagara Falls and Buffalo were scheduled to have totality for as much as four minutes, the weather clouded up for most of it. New York State won’t be in the path of totality again for 400 years.

Meanwhile, we had a magical three minutes of totality on Long Lake, starting exactly at 3:24 pm, experiencing the thrill of night-in-the-daytime where you could see stars, then the Diamond Ring, and hearing a dog howl along with everyone’s collective gasps. Then, only a few minutes after, the sun’s crescent started to reappear, but was hazy behind a thin cloud cover, making us appreciate the experience we had all the more.

Here are highlights of the stellar show:

Day turns to night, stars can be seen, and the moon is a tiny dot in the crown of the sun’s corona, during totality of the Solar Eclipse, April 8, 2024, at Long Lake, in New York State’s Adirondacks © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

The Diamond Ring formation lasts mere seconds during totality of the Solar Eclipse, April 8, 2024, at Long Lake, in New York State’s Adirondacks © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

The moon is a tiny dot in the crown of the sun’s corona, during totality of the Solar Eclipse, April 8, 2024, at Long Lake, in New York State’s Adirondacks © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

The sun begins to reemerge as a crescent after totality, but soon, clouds make it hazy © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

Our family enjoys this once-in-a-lifetime experience of a Total Solar Eclipse in New York’s Adirondacks, on April 8, 2024

The Long Lake community gets set for the Total Solar Eclipse © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Long Lake was a setting for Hudson River School painter Thomas Cole © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

The Adirondack Hotel was a fabulous base for watching the Total Eclipse © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

Staying over before and after the Total Solar Eclipse at The Lorca on Indian Lake avoided the traffic coming and going to the Adirondacks © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com.

The next time you go:

It may be 400 years before a total solar eclipse returns to New York State, and this may have been a once-in-a-lifetime experience for millions, but there will be total solar eclipses coming up around the world. If you are now hooked on pursuing totality or if you regret missing out:

Prepare well in advance – even a year in advance. Research ideal locations based on path of totality and duration of totality (in North America, ranged from two to four minutes, so significant difference). Scout out locations and book hotel accommodations, travel to the extent possible even a year in advance for the best locations. (See: Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse).

Make sure you have solar glasses and necessary camera gear (solar filters, long-focus lens, ie 300 mm. Have TAPE to attach a paper solar filter to camera, as I used, if you don’t have the glass filter, check www.bhphotovideo.com). Practice in advance (the hardest part is switching from partial to total eclipse – you have to remove the solar filter and reset the manual settings). Review videos of techniques and get a list of suggested camera settings.

Go to the location at least the day before. Scout where you will be standing. Take sample photo of where sun will be at the time of the eclipse (usually one hour before and one hour after totality). Fill up gas tank, get supplies (food, water for next day).

Day of: download maps/directions (cell service may not be available). Get to the site EARLY to get parking and a position (set up your chair, so you can roam around, use restroom). Plan for extra traffic/time to get to site. Bring chair, camera, lenses, extra memory cards, SOLAR GLASSES, SOLAR FILTER, tripod, hat, sunglasses, jacket, book, charged cell phone, food, water.

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© 2024 Travel Features Syndicate, a division of Workstyles, Inc. All rights reserved. Visit goingplacesfarandnear.com and travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate/. Blogging at goingplacesnearandfar.wordpress.com and moralcompasstravel.info. Visit instagram.com/going_places_far_and_near and instagram.com/bigbackpacktraveler/ Send comments or questions to FamTravLtr@aol.com. Tweet @TravelFeatures. ‘Like’ us at facebook.com/NewsPhotoFeatures

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