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gals who travel is a community that provides a safe space for young female travellers to explore the world together. We teamed up with TruTravels back in 2022 to create the perfect trips in dreamy locations. We now have trips in Bali, Thailand, Costa Rica, Skiing in Andorra and our brand new trip which launched in September 2023, the Philippines!

These trips are the perfect opportunity to travel safely with like-minded people of a similar age. The majority of the group are usually solo travellers but of course you can grab a friend to join you! After the unforgettable experiences you have as a group the bond you leave with is a friendship for life!

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Gals Gone Traveling — Imagine the Fun!

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Gals Gone Traveling Discover Ireland August 30 – September 7, 2022

Travel for Women Only

Carol's Travel Service is excited to announce our new division, Gals Gone Traveling (GGT).

We have been handling women only travel tours for many years and have decided to expand this into its' own division and market under the name of Gals Gone Traveling. We often hear from women that they wish they had a friend or group to travel with where they could meet and connect with other women who have a desire to travel. GGT will give women the opportunity to start new friendships, create lasting memories and travel in a comfortable manner.

Women today are more independent than ever. Many look for new experiences, adventure, and comfortable camaraderie. Gals Gone Traveling offers a safe environment for women of all ages to travel within. We are calling on all women to share a travel quest full of discovery and fun while in the company of other women.

Our trips will be hosted by a knowledgeable, experienced and friendly travel advisor from our office. She will ensure that all travel details are looked after and be there to facilitate different ways for all guests to mix with each other; she will join excursions with everyone, and be company to all. If you are feeling concerned about traveling solo – don't be. Many of our guests are single women traveling alone. Our goal is to take the intimidation out of traveling solo by providing these group departures where there will likely be other solo travelers looking for a dream travel experience.

Who should join Gals Gone Traveling

• Women of all ages
• Women of all marital status
• Women of all backgrounds
• Solo women travelers
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Travel is not as far away as you think. Your journey starts right here. Take a sip of real Italian wines, spot a cheetah on safari in Africa, meditate in Bali, and meet women who will change your life. These women are Global Gals. A community of people who believe in the transformative power of travel. We welcome you to join us on our next adventure as we inspire, educate, and empower women around the world. You’ve already taken the first step; scroll down and select your step two.

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Global Gals invites YOU on a magical adventure in paradise! Bali should be on every gal’s bucket list; it’s the vacation that has EVERYTHING—the world’s best shopping; ancient temples set in lush jungle scenery; fascinating wildlife; delicious food; delightful people; warm, tropical waters and best of all, massages at $5 an hour!

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The 24 best girls weekend getaways for 2024.

See which amazing locales around the globe are ideal for a girls-only vacation.

The Best Girls Weekend Getaways

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From city to sea, these escapes are perfect for an incredible getaway without the guys.

Whether you want to party it up, get adventurous with some scuba diving or pamper yourselves at a deluxe spa, these fantastic girls trip destinations offer something for every woman in your group. However you choose to spend your vacation, these girls weekend getaways are bound to help you and your best gal pals create lifelong memories.

This city, located in the scenic Sonoran Desert, is a wonderful destination for a memorable girls trip with plenty of options for wellness, art and adventure. Start your day together in Phoenix with a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Hot Air Expeditions, for a bird's-eye view of the sprawling landscape below. Next, explore art and culture at a local museum. The Heard Museum focuses on Indigenous art, and the Phoenix Art Museum displays works from many of the greats, including Monet, Picasso, O'Keeffe and Kahlo. This historic Taliesin West – Frank Lloyd Wright's desert compound, located about 30 miles out of town – is another cool place to wander around in the area.

Don't miss the award-winning cocktail experience at Century Grand. For wellness and pampering, CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa sits about 35 miles north of Phoenix and offers classes focused on personal growth as well as an award-winning spa. Or, head to the remote, all-inclusive Castle Hot Springs resort about 50 miles north of the city to bathe in the mineral-rich waters and dine on farm-fresh produce grown on property. For a resort stay in nearby Scottsdale, opt for the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North or the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain .

Victoria, Canada

Courtesy of Fairmont Express

Reconnect with your friends in this charming waterfront city in British Columbia. Stay at the elegant Fairmont Empress hotel, which recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation to update its luxury Fairmont Gold experience. Put on your best dress for the iconic afternoon tea with finger sandwiches or meet the girls for the new Sunset Sips offering with cocktails served in teapots.

For some R&R in Victoria , walk to the newly opened HAVN floating spa to enjoy its outdoor hydrotherapy circuit. Leave time to visit the impressive Butchart Gardens with five themed gardens spanning 55 acres. Victoria is also brimming with historical and cultural sites, including Craigdorrach Castle, and you can find plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking and whale watching as well.

Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Seattle

Newport Beach, California

For the ultimate girls getaway, it doesn't get much better than Newport Beach . This Orange County destination – located about 45 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles – is home to attractions like Corona del Mar State Beach and the Fashion Island shopping center, an upscale open-air complex. When you need a break from shopping, explore the adjacent 1,000-acre Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve.

For a five-star stay with spacious accommodations, check into The Resort at Pelican Hill . The luxury two-, three- or four-bedroom villas are perfect for a sleepover with the girls. Spend your days lounging by one of the largest circular swimming pools in the U.S., hitting balls at one of the two championship golf courses or getting spoiled at the property's spa. For a waterfront stay, you can't beat the Balboa Bay Resort , located on the picturesque Newport Bay, with views of mega-yachts. Have a girls day at the spa, cruise the bay on a Duffy boat, or head to nearby Lido Marina Village for upscale shopping and gourmet dining.

Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Hit the slopes with your besties at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for world-class skiing and snowboarding in Jackson Hole . After a day on the mountain, head to the iconic Mangy Moose in Teton Village for après-ski cocktails and live music. Hotel Terra and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole offer easy slope access, as well as luxurious spas for relaxing and recovering.

The mountain adventure doesn't stop when the snow melts. During the summer months, you and your gals can go mountain biking at the Bike Park, take the scenic tram to the top for a waffle with a view at Corbet's Cabin and hike down through wildflowers, or explore new climbing routes on the Via Ferrata. You'll have so much fun that you may even want to return with your family in tow.

Read: The Top Ski Resorts in the U.S.

This Southern California destination provides warm weather, beautiful beaches , gourmet dining and upscale shopping. During the day, head out with the girls for kayaking in La Jolla Cove, hiking at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, visiting one of the many museums in Balboa Park, shopping in the Gaslamp Quarter or exploring California's roots at the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

There's no shortage of dining options in "America's Finest City." Grab brunch at the lively Bib Gourmand-winning Morning Glory (worth the wait) in Little Italy, go for a sunset dinner cruise with City Experiences and grab after-dinner drinks at the space-inspired Mothership. Cap off your day with a sleepover at the newly opened The Lafayette Hotel and Club, which has been restored to its 1940s glory.

From casino games to shows to grand hotels, Las Vegas offers many ways to spend a weekend away with the girls. To escape the hustle and bustle of the Strip, stay at the Delano Las Vegas , a quieter boutique-style hotel that's part of Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino . Delano guests receive access to all of the larger resort's amenities, including the Mandalay Bay Beach and Shark Reef Aquarium. What's more, the Delano's spa boasts massages, body treatments and facials, and you can also enjoy a seasonal pool with a whimsical submerged chessboard and a lounge with panoramic city views.

For top-notch shopping, head to The Shops at Crystals. Vegas shows are also perfect entertainment for a girls getaway. Catch one of Spiegelworld's adults-only shows, a live performance at the Beverly Theater, a dazzling concert at the new high-tech MSG Sphere or live country music at Ole Red when it opens in early 2024. Weekenders may also enjoy the futuristic AREA15 for immersive art, a secret bar, rides and the surreal worlds of Meow Wolf's Omega Mart.

Palm Springs, California

Warm up in the desert with a weekend in Palm Springs . You and your friends can gossip poolside with a cocktail, enjoy a game of golf or round of tennis, explore the midcentury modern architecture on a self-guided bike tour, or take the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway for beautiful views of the valley below.

For an overnight stay, the Trixie Motel offers a pink party scene created by drag queen Trixie Mattel. You can also find a tranquil escape at the newly opened Azure Sky, with its updated midcentury modern aesthetic, or at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in nearby Indian Wells. At night, get dressed up for dinner at the industrial-chic Workshop Kitchen + Bar – one of the city's top restaurants – for contemporary American cuisine.

Lexington, Kentucky

Steal away to the land of all things equine in the rolling green hills of Lexington , where white fences surround picturesque horse farms. Grab your friends and don your race-day best at the Keeneland racecourse, a world-renowned thoroughbred racing destination. Or, go for a horseback ride and stay the night at The Kentucky Castle, a 110-acre estate with European-inspired architecture. Check out the scenery and save time for a bourbon tasting at Woodford Reserve or Buffalo Trace Distillery.

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Lexington Green offers a free cooked-to-order breakfast daily, plus easy access to all of the city's can't-miss shops – including Joseph-Beth Booksellers in addition to the upscale boutiques in Fayette Mall and The Summit at Fritz Farm.

There's no shortage of things to do in Atlanta . Wander through downtown's Centennial Olympic Park and tour the World of Coca-Cola, where you can sip sodas from around the globe, before taking a ride on the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel. Your group can enjoy some barbecue and bourbon at Twin Smokers BBQ or visit the TikTok-famous mozzarella bar Bastone! before turning in for the night.

Head back to your Lifestyle Suite at the Loews Atlanta Hotel , which is conveniently equipped with a Peloton bike should you want to burn off some calories. The property's spa offers a variety of fitness classes, as well as treatments like body scrubs, facials and massages. For the best views of the city, grab drinks at the Bellyard hotel's Drawbar, located in The Interlock. It has easy access to the area's top attractions, including Puttshack's high-tech mini-golf, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. Top shopping areas in Atlanta include the posh Buckhead Village District and the expansive Lenox Square mall.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Georgia

Sun, surf and fun are what you'll find in Miami at nearly any time of year. Spend a day with your friends shopping at the outdoor Lincoln Road Mall or Española Way in Miami Beach , or meandering through murals at the Wynwood Walls art installation, one of Miami's top museums . When you're ready for some nightlife, head to South Beach to dance the night away. Park your pals at the Hotel Indigo Miami Brickell in the Financial District to enjoy sweeping views of the Brickell neighborhood, an outdoor pool and cocktails at Mosaico Kitchen & Bar. For Asian cuisine and a clubbing scene, head to Komodo or Gekkō (owned by Bad Bunny and David Grutman).

New York City

Friends can find any activity to strike their fancy in New York City . The FreeStyle Pass helps travelers save money and skip ticket lines at multiple attractions, such as One World Observatory – a top NYC observation deck option – and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Check out the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty during a brunch, dinner or other cruise with City Cruises.

Stay in the heart of bustling Times Square at the Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan , enjoy a more leisurely escape at the hip Arlo Williamsburg in Brooklyn or book a room in the vibrant Financial District at The Wall Street Hotel for a chic experience. New York City offers seemingly endless places to dine , from the high-end Clement restaurant at The Peninsula New York to the casual Melt Shop lunch spot.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Brooklyn

Napa Valley, California

Picture yourself and your friends sipping wine amid the rolling green hills of Napa Valley . An easy way to get the lay of the land is on a Getaway Adventures bike tour, which stops at wineries in areas like Calistoga. You can even sign up for a hot air balloon ride with Napa Valley Balloons – on a clear day, you can see all the way to San Francisco .

The centrally located Andaz Napa is a modern and convenient hotel to retire to after dining at one of the valley's top restaurants , such as The Grove at Copia with its farm-to-table fare. Also located in Napa is The Meritage Resort and Spa , offering a luxurious stay with on-site tasting rooms, a six-lane bowling alley and Spa Terra. For a storybook getaway with the girls, stay at the Harvest Inn in St. Helena and dine at Gott's Roadside for casual California fare.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Los Angeles

For the ultimate girls getaway, head to Los Angeles and experience luxury amenities, leading-edge fashion, skyline views and rooftop pools. Check into the historic, boutique Hotel Figueroa – created by women, for women – where you can enjoy a coffin-shaped pool, specialty suites and artwork by local independent female creators. At the five-star Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles , take in some of the best views of the city from the pool on the rooftop, see a concert at LA Live, or shop for clothes and accessories from up-and-coming designers at the nearby LA Fashion District.

Work up a sweat by hiking on Runyon Canyon Trail for views of Hollywood Hills. For a ranch-style getaway with the girls, head to Malibu to stay at the boutique Calamigos Guest Ranch, then dine at the Calamigos Beach Club Restaurant and Lounge, which offers scenic Pacific Ocean vistas just 10 miles from the ranch.

Get your fill of retail therapy along the Magnificent Mile in Chicago . This central thoroughfare, which spans several blocks of Michigan Avenue, is lined with various shops and restaurants and several top hotels. The nearby Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago 's rooms are outfitted with bay windows that overlook the city, and the stylish Silversmith Hotel Chicago Downtown is home to a lively restaurant and lounge.

After a restful night's sleep, stroll through Millennium Park to see the iconic "Bean" sculpture and catch a show in the city's theater district. Of course, no visit would be complete without ordering some deep-dish pizza from a local favorite like Lou Malnati's or Gino's East.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

In the foothills of Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains National Park , you'll find amenities such as live entertainment venues, restaurants, shops and spas. The Island in Pigeon Forge entertainment complex features more than 80 shops and mouthwatering local eateries like Paula Deen's Family Kitchen. You'll find the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, an escape room and the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, which displays iconic artifacts such as Al Capone's rosary.

Also at The Island is the Margaritaville Island Hotel , which has rooms outfitted with fireplaces and private balconies as well as special offers like the "Margarita Package," complete with a frozen concoction maker. Additional Pigeon Forge must-dos include the Dolly Parton's Stampede and Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud performances, which are both top dinner shows in the area .

Santa Barbara, California

Have a quintessential Southern California vacation in Santa Barbara , which is known for its beaches, Spanish colonial-style buildings and abundant shops along the city's main road, State Street. Relax with your buddies at the Kimpton Canary Hotel , which boasts a rooftop pool, free loaner bicycles, and accommodations equipped with four-poster beds and yoga mats. The property's Finch & Fork restaurant serves seafood and classic American dishes.

When you're ready for drinks, venture to downtown's happening Funk Zone, where you can visit wine-tasting rooms such as Pali Wine Co. as well as distilleries and breweries. There are also great trails to hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains. In the nearby town of Los Olivos, in the heart of Santa Barbara Wine Country, you and the girls can enjoy handcrafted wine, expansive views and cozy amenities at Fess Parker; lodging options here include cabins and a charming inn.

Charleston, South Carolina

Step back in time to 17th-century America while on vacation in Charleston . This charming port city in South Carolina is home to preserved historic mansions, beaches, award-winning restaurants and shops. Many of Charleston's popular attractions, such as the Battery and Charleston City Market, are easy to explore on foot or by bike.

After a busy day of sightseeing, gal pals can relax at Wentworth Mansion , a former home built in the 1800s by wealthy Charleston resident Francis Silas Rodgers. The hotel offers plush digs, a spa inside the property's former stables and the highly regarded Circa 1886 restaurant. For under-the-radar dining, The Wreck offers fresh seafood away from the crowds. Also in Charleston's Historic District, the cozy boutique Emeline hotel boasts suites with memorable touches like record players, plus close proximity to picturesque cobblestone streets and charming boutiques.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

It's hard to find a more picturesque destination than Carmel-by-the-Sea , thanks to its misty beaches and homes straight out of a fairy tale. This coastal village, less than 5 miles southwest of Monterey, is an ideal spot to hop on bikes and ride down to the beach and through charming neighborhoods with your gal pals. When you reach downtown, stop to check out the area's shops, restaurants and art galleries. For more beautiful sea views, venture to nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Carmel offers a range of quaint hotels and inns, including the historic La Playa Carmel and the cottage-style Hotel Carmel.

Read: The Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in the U.S.

Charlotte, North Carolina

The plethora of activities in Charlotte – think: artsy events, heart-pumping pursuits and top-notch shopping – makes this Southern city appealing to all kinds of travelers. Try whitewater rafting at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, where visitors will find the world's largest human-made whitewater river, or enjoy ample shopping opportunties at the high-end SouthPark Mall.

For boutique digs in Charlotte, stay at the Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel . Overlooking an urban park in the city center, the property boasts amenities like complimentary loaner bikes, in-room yoga mats, a yoga deck and an on-site restaurant. Angeline's offers Italian-American cuisine at the hotel, while the rooftop Merchant & Trade serves up bar snacks and cocktails.

If you're looking for an international escape that's close to home, head to Toronto . The city's abundance of distinct neighborhoods – such as Little Italy, Greektown, Chinatown and Little India – makes it a superb spot for foodies . Gourmands can pick up specialty items at Kensington Market. Meanwhile, fashionistas may want to shop for designer clothing at Bloor-Yorkville and music enthusiasts can check out top live music venues like Horseshoe Tavern, The Rex and Massey Hall.

When you need a break from all the city has to offer, take advantage of the Bisha Hotel Toronto 's amenities. Set between the Fashion District and Old Toronto, the hotel features a seasonal rooftop infinity pool, steam rooms, and four bars and restaurants, including an eatery with sweeping city panoramas.

New Orleans

A vacation in this city is bound to include time spent sipping hurricanes on Bourbon Street and munching on beignets at Café du Monde. But if partying isn't your scene, don't fret: New Orleans offers something for everyone. The chic South Market district appeals to avid shoppers, Frenchmen Street boasts incredible live music, and the 18th-century Jackson Square is a must for history buffs. A streetcar ride down St. Charles Avenue, which features gorgeous mansions, is also a fun way to pass the time.

New Orleans is home to a variety of hotels, but for traveler-approved amenities and a superb location, hang your hat at the Loews New Orleans Hotel . This property sits in the New Orleans Art District and houses an indoor pool, a restaurant and a fitness center. Another option is the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel with diverse culinary options, spacious rooms and close proximity to many of New Orleans' top attractions .

Finger Lakes, New York

There are 11 Finger Lakes to explore on a scenic girls trip in New York state. Not only can you enjoy outdoor recreation on and in the lakes, but you'll also find opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing and golf. Maximize your time with your friends while visiting several local vineyards on a wine trail, seeing a show at one of the performing arts centers, zip lining at Bristol Mountain, shopping in Canandaigua, visiting a museum or petting an alpaca at Lazy Acre Alpacas.

A variety of accommodations awaits you in the Finger Lakes , ranging from campgrounds and bed-and-breakfasts to resorts and vacation rentals. For a memorable overnighter, opt for the Miami Motel with its art deco '50s vibe or the luxurious and historic Belhurst Castle . When you're choosing where to eat out, great options include farm-to-table cuisine at Kindred Fare, Roots Cafe or the opulent Diciannove Dieci.

Key West, Florida

Escape to the Florida Keys for a tropical getaway with the girls. The southernmost key, Key West , is known for its abundance of ocean activities, year-round warm weather, lively Duval Street, historic homes and a laid-back vibe. Hop on bikes to search for the best key lime pie, kayak through the mangroves, taste rum at Papa's Pilar Rum Distillery, see the six-toed cats at the Ernest Hemingway house, visit the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and go sailing at sunset. For a night out, have a classic shot of whiskey with a pickle juice chaser at one of the iconic bars on the island, such as Sloppy Joe's or Capt. Tony's Saloon.

For overnight accommodations, explore the top resorts in the Florida Keys . You may want to stay at a beachfront property such as The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton . There's also the budget-friendly, adults-only NYAH Key West with bunk beds rooms that sleep up to six guests.

Read: The Top Florida Keys Beaches

Asheville, North Carolina

Courtesy of The Biltmore Company

For a girls trip focused on outdoor adventure, Asheville is a great choice because of its location in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Explore the area's top hikes to get your adrenaline pumping. Your group will love getting a taste of life as a Vanderbilt by staying at the extravagant and historic Biltmore Estate. With 8,000 acres to explore here, activities include hiking, biking, fishing, floating on the river, horseback and carriage rides, bird walks, farm tours and more. Guests can stay at the Village Hotel, The Inn or one of the cottages that sleep up to five.

If you'd rather stay in town, The Foundry Hotel Asheville, Curio Collection by Hilton has a modern industrial ambiance with Appalachian cuisine and elegant guest rooms. With the property located in The Block, Asheville's historic Black business district, you'll be within walking distance of the vibrant downtown scene and its multitude of shopping and dining options.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to planning girls trips with her friends. She prefers to plan getaways in places that offer outdoor adventure and five-star spas. Her favorite destinations include Palms Springs, Jackson Hole and British Columbia. Kolberg used her personal experience and research skills to curate this list of the best girls trip ideas.

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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Join us as we celebrate our 5th Anniversary in April 2026 with an amazing Burgundy &  Provence River Cruise with AmaWaterways.

AmaWaterways is a leader in luxury river cruising. Kirstin Karst is the Co-owner  of AmaWaterways and understands the importance of women travelers.

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We are offing special deals until June 30, 2024, so book early for the best rates!

Suitcase Gals is a great way to make lifelong friends by sharing the common bond of travel.  We offer small group travel for women over 40 years of age and older to amazing destinations.

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US & Canadian Travel

International travel, caribbean travel, local events & online meetings.

A spirited group of women with a passion for travel, orchestrating unforgettable trips for fellow females eager to explore the world together.

• With a specialty in crafting exclusive, intimate group tours designed specifically for women, a women led company supporting a community of women
• We handle all details meticulously
• We operate with complete transparency, clearly presenting all costs, terms and conditions 
• We allow our travelers an opportunity to give-back and travel sustainably 

Email: [email protected]

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• Meet The Team
• Travel-n-Tips
• Trips-On-Tap
• NEW YEAR'S EVE , 2024
• WALKS BEGIN MAY 2024
• FEBRUARY TEA PARTY
• CHRISTMAS PARTY DEC 2024
• UNSCHEDULED
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• Traveler's Shoppe

Adventure is Calling

Trips-2-gether, florida's sunshine coast, steamboating on the american queen, winter in the desert oasis.

•  Tour Highlights 
• • 6 Meals: 1 breakfast, 3 lunches and 2 dinners • Spend seven nights at the Lido Beach Resort in a deluxe kitchenette room on Florida’s beautiful Suncoast • Tour Cà d’Zan, the dazzling palatial mansion of John and Mable Ringling • Included lunch at Der Dutchman Restaurant for a hearty Amish-style meal • Optional visit to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, a tropical, urban oasis • Take an exciting Eco-Tour through Telegraph Swamp at the Babcock Wilderness Adventure Ranch • Watch for wildlife on a narrated cruise of beautiful Charlotte Harbor • Visit the Salvador Dali Museum which highlights the artist’s vision and work • Included lunch is at the original Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest restaurant • Enjoy two and a half free days on the beach 
• JANUARY 28- FEBRUARY 4, 2024-MAYFLOWER

   Tour Highlights 

14 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 5 dinners • Round trip airport transfers • Spend one night in Las Vegas, • Narrated tour of the Las Vegas strip with a local guide • Visit Valley of Fire State Park with its pink and orange striped hills of the Mojave Desert • Spend two nights at the Zion National Park Lodge a classic wilderness lodge located inside the park • Tour Zion National Park to see its geography of red sandstone cliffs, emerald pools and rock formations • Stop at the authentic ghost town of Rhyolite, once a ‘rip-roaring’ gold mining community founded in 1904 and see the sculptures at Goldwell Open Air Museum • Spend two nights inside Death Valley National Park • Tour Death Valley National Park including Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere, Zabriskie Point for panoramic views of the park’s colored badlands and Stovepipe Wells with the extensive Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes • Visit Manzanar National Historic Site, a moving reminder of the dark days of World War II • Spend two nights in Palm Springs, a desert resort city • Ride the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway over Chino Canyon to the top of San Jacinto Peak • Take a guided tour of Palm Springs with its rich Native American heritage, beautiful palm tree-lined streets and desert scenery • Learn about Palm Springs’ connection with Hollywood’s film industry as a desert playground for celebrities 

• MARCH 3-10, 2024-MAYFLOWER

CHERRY BLOSSOM TIME IN OUR NATION'S CAPITAL

• • 24 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 8 dinners • Spend one night in New Orleans with included narrated city tour including Jackson Square and Garden District • Lunch at the New Orleans School of Cooking and learn about Cajun cooking in a fun & informative atmosphere • Experience the nostalgic days of Steam Boating along the Mississippi River aboard the beautifully restored American Queen with open bars, Wi-Fi and daily entertainment • Tour the 1859 Greek Revival and Italianate-style mansion, Nottoway Plantation, the largest antebellum plantation house in the South • Call at quaint St. Francisville, with over 140 buildings on the National Register and beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside • Visit Natchez, Mississippi, the center of the Antebellum South and home to restored mansions Stanton Hall and Longwood, the largest octagonal house in the U.S. • Call at Vicksburg, Mississippi, the “Red Carpet City of the South”, blending Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern-day attractions • Call at the historic Port of the Mississippi region, the inspiration of authors, musicians and artists • Spend one night in Memphis and visit the 14-acre Graceland Estate of Elvis Presley including the home tour, meditation garden and car museum 
• MARCH 24-APRIL 4, 2024- MAYFLOWER

•  9 Meals: 6 breakfasts and 3 dinners • Round trip airport transfers • Spend four nights in the Washington, DC area • Enjoy reserved grandstand seating to the National Cherry Blossom Parade • Tour Mount Vernon, the expansive estate of George and Martha Washington • Arlington National Cemetery* and the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier • Washington, DC touring with a local guide including the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center along with the FDR, Vietnam and Lincoln Memorials • Visit the National WWII Memorial, dedicated to all who served during World War II • Experience the Washington, DC National Mall area at night on a panoramic Illumination tour • Visit Ford’s Theatre, see the play One Destiny and visit Petersen House • Visit the Smithsonian Institution’s American History Museum • Tour Jamestown Settlement, Powhatan Indian Village and visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown Museum • Full day at Colonial Williamsburg, the nation’s largest living history museum • Traditional Tavern dinner in historic Colonial Williamsburg 
• APRIL 12-18, 2024- MAYFLOWER

CULTURAL TREASURES OF JAPAN

Highlights And Inclusions

Your tour includes.

• 5 Handpicked Accommodations

Must-See Inclusions:

• Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha, made famous by the movie Memoirs of a Geisha .
• Visit multiple UNESCO sites including Shirakawa-go, Nijo Castle, Itsukushima Shinto Shrine and Hiroshima Peace Memorial.
• Explore Takayama’s beautiful old town, nestled in the Japanese Alps.

Cultural Experiences:

• Try your hand at the centuries-old art of the Japanese tea ceremony, gold leaf decorating and stenciling.
• Travel by the famous Shinkansen bullet train.
• Explore the famous Ginza District, the first Western-style shopping district in Japan where modern and history blends.

Culinary Inclusions:

• Enjoy a sake tasting at a local sake brewery followed by a Hida beef dinner.
• Participate in a sushi-making class.
• Experience a traditional kaiseki dinner with maiko show in Kyoto.
• Asakusa Sensoji Shrine
• Tea Ceremony
• Lake Ashi Cruise
• Matsumoto Castle
• Sake Tasting and Hida Beef Dinner
• Shirakawa-go
• Bullet Train
• Kaiseki Dinner & Maiko Show
• APRIL 22- MAY 5, 2024-COLLETTE

OLD WORLD SICILY & MALTA

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations
• 4 Choice on Tour Options
• Spend three nights in Taormina (UNESCO) and explore its iconic Greek theater.
• Pass by Baroque architecture and wrought iron balconies on a winding walking tour of Ragusa (UNESCO).
• Immerse yourself in ancient history during a visit to the Valley of the Temples (UNESCO).
• Ascend the sides of Mount Etna (UNESCO) on off-road vehicles.
• Soak up the island ambiance of Malta with a 4-night stay.
• Delve into the belly of Palermo on a walking food tour of the historical center.
• Taste award-winning olive oil and learn about the Slow Food movement at a local farm.
• Delve into the history of Marsala wine during a visit to a local cellar.
• Explore the flavors of Maltese cuisine during a family-style tasting dinner.
• Choices on Tour
• Impact Moment
• Isle of Mozia
• Marsala Winery Tour
• Olive Oil Farm
• Valley of the Temples
• Mount Etna Off-Road Excursion
• Three Cities

MAY 15-29, 2024-COLLETTE

Trips-2-Gether II

Treasures of europe, rome & the amalifi coast.

• 2 Choice on Tour Options
• Tour Rome’s awe-inspiring Colosseum.
• Cross the majestic Swiss Alps into Italy.
• See Michelangelo’s David at the Academy Museum in Florence.
• Enjoy free time in London and Rome to explore at leisure.
• Stroll through the floating city of Venice.
• Travel across 3 countries on high-speed trains.
• Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Seine River and drift past famous landmarks as you dine on French cuisine.
• Sample delectable wines and traditional cuisine at a vineyard in the Chianti region.
• Eurostar Train
• Seine River Cruise and Dinner
• Choice on Tour
• TGV High-Speed Train
• Italian Vineyard Experience
• Michelangelo’s David
• The Colosseum

JUNE 27- JULY 10, 2024  

• 2 Handpicked Accommodations
• Take a walking tour of Classical Rome, featuring an in-depth visit to the legendary Colosseum.
• Visit the seaside resort town of Sorrento.
• Discover the excavated ruins of Pompeii with a local expert.
• Discover the mountaintop monastery of Montecassino and its role in World War II.
• Tour a family-run farm on the Sorrento Coast and learn how they make mozzarella cheese by hand.
• Enjoy free time to explore Amalfi, a historic trading hub along its namesake coast.
• Enjoy a tasting and lunch at a local winery at the foot of Mount Vesuvius.
• Trevi Fountain
• Piazza Navona
• Montecassino
• Amalfi Coast
• Farmhouse Dinner and Mozzarella-Making Demonstration
• Winery Visit  

JULY 12-21, 2024  -COLLETTE

GORILL TREK IN UGANDA

Portugal & the douro river.

   Tour Highlights 

 22 meals: 8 breakfast, 7 lunches and 7 dinners • Airport transfers on tour dates when air is provided by Mayflower Cruises and Tours • 4x4 safari vehicles with pop-up roof, sliding windows and seat belts • Professional English-Speaking Driver/Guide • Kampala city tour • Meet students at a local school in Kampala • Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park • Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel • Chimp trekking in Kibale Forest • Nature hike through the Bigodi Wetlands • Gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park • Visit a women’s cooperative to learn about traditional crafts and culture 

AUGUST 19-28, 2024-MAYFLOWER

CRUISING ECUADOR'S GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

   Exceptional Inclusions ............................................... • 

22 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 8 dinners • Airport transfers on tour dates when air is provided by Mayflower Cruises & Tours • Visit two countries • Two-night hotel stay and touring in Lisbon, Portugal before cruising • Seven-night cruise on the Emerald Radiance • First-class service by an English-speaking crew • Onboard Activity Manager will support all EmeraldACTIVE excursions and host daily onboard wellness activities, games, classes and evening entertainment • Shore excursions with English-speaking local guides • All gratuities included • Personal listening device for onboard excursions • Many meals included onboard with a variety of international cuisine • Complimentary regional wines, beer and soft drinks accompany onboard lunches and dinners • Complimentary bottled water in your stateroom • Complimentary WiFi onboard • Variety of onboard evening entertainment 

OCTOBER 2 -12, 2024-MAYFLOWER

 Exceptional Inclusions ............................................... • 

16 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners • Airport transfers on tour dates when air is provided by Mayflower Cruises & Tours • Pre-cruise hotel stay and touring in Quito • Local English-speaking guides in Quito and Guayaquil • Four-night cruise aboard the MV Galápagos Legend • Two excursions per day during the cruise • English-speaking Naturalist Guides aboard the vessel • Complimentary snorkel gear onboard • All meals included onboard the vessel • Post-cruise hotel stay and touring in Guayaquil 

• OCTOBER 1-7, 2024  -MAYFLOWER

TRIPS-2-GETHER III

Mysteries of india, peru from machu picchu to lake titicaca.

• 7 Handpicked Accommodations
• Watch for tigers in the wild during game drives in Ranthambore National Park.
• Cruise the waters of the famous River Ganges.
• Explore the majestic Amber Fort and vibrant Jaipur, the “Pink City.”
• Behold the Taj Mahal at sunrise.
• Travel to Khajuraho on an exciting train journey.
• Venture through the main streets and back roads of Old Delhi via rickshaw.
• Marvel at the illuminated Ganga Aarti ceremony.
• Learn the secrets to preparing incredible Indian food at a home-hosted dinner.
• Home-Hosted Dinner
• Ranthambore National Park
• Abhaneri Stepwell
• Chandela Temple Complex
• Ganga Aarti Ceremony
• NOVEMBER 4-18, 2024-COLLETTER

HAWAIIAN ADVENTURE

• 3 Handpicked Accommodations
• Visit the Place of Refuge to learn about a sanctuary where people found shelter, safety, and forgiveness in times of war and after breaking the law in Ancient Hawaii.
• Remember Pearl Harbor as you visit the USS Arizona Memorial.
• Explore the renowned Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s “Big Island.”
• Stroll through the streets of the royal capital, Lahaina, Maui.
• Create your own lei as part of a cultural demonstration on Big Island.
• Visit Iolani Palace to see the last residence of the Hawaiian Royal Family.
• Savor a Polynesian luau featuring tropical drinks and a sumptuous feast.
• Spend time at a Kona coffee farm and learn how coffee is grown.
• Waikiki Beach
• Pearl Harbor
• Iolani Palace
• Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
• Kona Highlights
• Lahaina 

JANUARY 23- FEBRUARY 1, 2025-COLLETTE

   From the sacred citadel of Machu Picchu to the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, the magical wonders of Peru are waiting behind every corner. Take in Lima and see the historical side of the “City of Kings.” Explore Andean art forms and the local way of life during your stay in the Sacred Valley. Delight in a home-hosted farm-to-table lunch at a local Quechua community. At Machu Picchu, spend a night at the base of the “Lost City of the Incas” and enjoy a culinary demonstration. Explore Cuzco, a city that blends Inca and Spanish colonial influences. Discover the birthplace of the Incan Empire in Puno and Lake Titicaca. Meet the indigenous Uros people of the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. Step into the past as you explore mysterious ancient sites and immerse yourself in the culture as you taste the country’s renowned cuisine. 

JANUARY 27- FEBRUARY 5, 2024- COLLETTE

COLORS OF MOROCCO

Spotlight on new york holiday.

• Pause for a view of the Atlas Mountains extraordinary scenery and its Berber villages.
• Visit the Kasbah des Oudaias with its narrow and colorful alleyways.
• Explore Fes, one of the holiest Muslim cities in the world.
• Visit with a Nomad family and learn about their ancient traditions.
• Experience the desert both by 4x4 and on camelback during your 2-night camp stay.
• Stroll through the cobbled alleyways of ancient markets and medinas.
• Select your own ingredients before a culinary workshop at a local women’s cooperative.
• Indulge in a tour and tasting at a winery estate.
• Sahara Desert Luxury Tented Camp
• Khamlia Music Village
• Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou
• High Atlas Mountains
• Cooking Class
• Hassan II Mosque

MARCH 20-APRIL 3, 2025-COLLETTE

• 1 Handpicked Accommodations
• Venture out to Times Square to experience a Broadway show.
• Experience the incredible Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall.
• Embark on a voyage to experience "Lady Liberty" up-close.
• Explore the 9/11 Memorial and the 9/11 Museum.
• Experience the streets of New York City like a native when you walk to dinner and a Broadway show.
• Enjoy breakfast at the famous Ellen's Stardust Diner, featuring a singing wait staff.
• Greenwich Village
• Wall Street
• Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall
• Statue of Liberty
• Ellis Island
• 9/11 Memorial
• 9/11 Museum
• Broadway Show December 11-15, 2024
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“Always…Patsy Cline”, Winter Garden Theatre, Winter Garden

Presents Date:  Wednesday, May 1, 2024  Cost:  $97/pp Club Member or $105/pp Non-Club Member  Leave:  12:30 pm ~ Show: 2 pm ~ Return: 6:30 pm Show only!!!  NO stops for lunch or dinner Included:  r/t transportation, tickets to show, tip to bus driver Pick up location: Wildwood Community Center, 6500 Powell Rd., Wildwood   Always…Patsy Cline is more than a tribute to the legendary country singer who [...]

May Meeting, Wildwood Community Center

Gals on the Go Women's Travel Club Date:  Tuesday, May 28, 2024 Location:  Wildwood Community Center, 6500 Powell Rd., Wildwood Time:  1:30 pm to 3 pm GUEST SPEAKER: Lisa from the Winder Park Playhouse will present/talk about their upcoming 2024/2025 Season. "8 Track: The Sounds of the 70's"; "Snapshorts: A Musical Scrapbook"; "Wreck the Halls"; "The Bikinis"; "Gigolo: The New Cole Porter Revue"; "Route 66"' Please [...]

“8 Track: The Sounds of the 70″s”, Winter Park

Presents Date:  Thursday, August 15, 2024  Cost:  $79/pp Club Member or $89/pp Non-Club Member  Leave:  9:30 am ~ Lunch/Shopping on your own ~ Show: 2 pm ~ Return: 6:30 pm Included:  r/t transportation, tickets to show, tip to bus driver Pick up location: Wildwood Community Center, 6500 Powell Rd., Wildwood Put on your leisure suits, halter tops and platform shoes and get ready to boogie down with [...]

“Pippin”, Winter Garden Theatre, Winter Garden

Presents Date:  Thursday, Sept 12, 2024  Cost:  $102/pp Club Member or $110/pp Non-Club Member  Leave:  12:30 pm ~ Show: 2 pm ~ Return: 6:30 pm Show only!!!  NO stops for lunch or dinner Included:  r/t transportation, tickets to show, tip to bus driver Pick up location: Wildwood Community Center, 6500 Powell Rd., Wildwood There’s magic to do as a charismatic Leading Player tells the story of Pippin, [...]

“Snapshots: A Musical Scrapbook”

Presents Date:  Wednesday, October 2, 2024  Cost:  $79/pp Club Member or $89/pp Non-Club Member  Leave:  9:30 am ~ Lunch/Shopping on your own ~ Show: 2 pm ~ Return: 6:30 pm Included:  r/t transportation, tickets to show, tip to bus driver Pick up location: Wildwood Community Center, 6500 Powell Rd., Wildwood This new musical features an outstanding score by Academy Award-winning composer Stephen Schwartz and incorporates over two [...]

The Olive Grove, Tour – Seminar – Pottery Class & Lunch

Tour, Seminar, Pottery Class & Lunch at Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024 Cost:  Member Price: $85/pp ~ Non-member Price: $91/pp Pick up location:  Brownwood Bus Trip Lot Leave: 9:30 am~Return: 4:30 pm   Includes:  r/t transportation, tip to bus driver!  Tour; Seminar, Pottery Class, Lunch Dress Code:  Wear closed in shoes (no sandals) & "Farm Clothes".  You will be working with clay! Your pottery piece (photo) will be [...]

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

Summer travel in 2024 will be "expensive in every way," said Katharine Nohr. And she should know.

She's planning a two-week adventure to Europe in June, which starts with a marathon flight from Honolulu to Zurich, where she'll speak at a conference. Then, she's hopscotching across Europe – to Vienna, then on to the Olympics. Nohr made plans to be in Nantes, France, to watch a soccer game, in Lille for basketball, and in Paris for gymnastics, boxing, and swimming.

Check out   Elliott Confidential , the newsletter the travel industry doesn't want you to read. Each issue is filled with breaking news, deep insights, and exclusive strategies for becoming a better traveler. But don't tell anyone!

All told, it'll set her back five figures despite her best efforts, which include flying economy class and staying in the lowest-priced hotels. 

"The trip is pricey, even with my efforts to economize," said Nohr, an attorney from Honolulu. "But it's a once-in-my-life adventure." 

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Summer travelers are pursuing exciting, expensive vacations

Nohr is part of a wave of travelers who are making big plans for this summer. The itineraries are exciting – and expensive. 

Pretty much every barometer of travel intent is up for the summer travel season. Inflation and unemployment are low, and consumer sentiment and curiosity are high, fueling an unprecedented interest in travel during the summer of 2024. 

"Bookings are rising," said Susan Sherren, who runs Couture Trips , a travel agency. "Unfortunately, hotel, tour, and air prices are not falling. So, if you plan on hitting the road this summer, make sure you are willing to splash some cash."

Travel companies say they're overwhelmed with summer reservations.

"The travel economy is booming," said Joe Ialacci, owner of Yacht Hampton Boating Club , a company that rents yachts in Sag Harbor, New York. He's seeing a 40% increase in rentals this summer compared to last year as Americans shift some of their vacation dollars to domestic destinations.

Prices aren't the only thing trending higher. People's expectations for their summer vacation are also higher than at any time since the pandemic, said Sangeeta Sadarangani, CEO of Crossing , a multinational travel agency headquartered in London. 

"They're embracing the unknown," she said.

And one of the great unknowns is travel prices. How much higher will they be?

What will prices be like this summer?

It depends on where you're going. There's good news if you're traveling within the U.S.: flights and hotels are a little less expensive than last summer . But they're rising elsewhere. Here's the breakdown:

• Airfares are mixed. Domestic roundtrip airfares for summer will peak at $315 per ticket, according to the travel platform Hopper . Flights to Europe are cheaper, too. They've fallen 10% from last year to $882. But flights to South America are up 2% and flights to Canada have risen 7%. You'll pay an average of $708 to fly south of the border and $419 to head north.
• U.S. hotel rates are down. Domestically, they're about the same as last year at an average of $206 per night.
• Car rental prices are rising. Average domestic car rental rates are only up 3% this summer to $42 per day on a four-day rental, according to Hopper. 

But you can avoid the high prices with a little strategic planning, experts say.

What to avoid this summer

American travelers are becoming more predictable in their summer vacation choices, said John Lovell, president of Travel Leaders Group . Immediately after the pandemic, they embarked on "revenge" vacations to far-flung locations. Now they're returning to more conventional vacations.

"We continue to see U.S. travelers heading back to the more traditional locations across Europe this year, like London, Rome, Athens and Munich," he said.

There are places that will be exceptionally busy – and exceptionally pricey – this summer.

• Paris during the Olympics. The Olympic Games are taking place in Paris this summer. Rooms are more than double the normal rates . which is typical of the Olympics. Paris is already crowded with tourists during the summer, so you can probably imagine what it will be like with the Olympics. Zut, alors!
• Taylor Swift is touring Europe this summer. Prices will be higher and the crowds will be denser. "If you aren't planning to attend one of her concerts, I recommend planning around those European cities when she's there," said Betsy Ball, co-founder of Euro Travel Coach . (Want to know if your schedules overlap? Here's Taylor Swift's concert schedule .)
• Other big summer events. Even if you steer clear of Taylor and the Olympics, you're still not out of the woods. There's the UEFA Euro 2024 football tournament in Germany in June. There's the Tour de France in July, which begins in Florence and finishes in Nice. France is also hosting the Paralympic Games in August and September, which will take place in Paris, Nice, Marseille and Bordeaux.

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Pay less to fly: New strategies for finding cheap airfares now

When is the best time to book a 2024 summer vacation?

Since this is going to be a busy one, the sooner you book, the better. Hopper recommends buying your airfare two to three months before your departure for domestic flights, and for international – well, it's probably too late to get that rock-bottom fare. If you're reading this in April, you can still find something for late August or early September, according to its airfare experts.

As always, you can save money by booking a flight for midweek instead of on the weekend – and, of course, by keeping far, far away from the big travel holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and Labor Day. 

Also, if you're going overseas, remember their holiday calendar is different. For example, half of Europe shuts down during August for summer vacation. It's worth a look-up, otherwise, you could face some real disappointments.

Strategies for traveling better during the summer

One tactic that consistently works is splitting your getaway into two sections. Take that required summer vacation with your family somewhere less expensive during the high season. Then, wait until shoulder season for the big trip. 

That's what Ross Copas, a retired electrician from Tweed, Canada, is doing during the summer of 2024. It's a road trip across the northern U.S. by motorcycle – New York to Washington State, and then back east through Canada. 

Then he's heading to Amsterdam in September for a 23-day European river cruise. He said the late summer getaway will be costly, but he doubts fares will fall anytime soon. "So price be damned," he added.

Actually, that's pretty smart. I took the same cruise he's planning on Viking River Cruises many years ago, and it was worth every penny.

With hotel rates rising in some places this summer, this is the right time to consider alternatives. Monica Fish, a writer from Glen Rock, N.J., is headed to Ireland to catch one of Taylor Swift's performances. She said hotel rooms in Dublin are overpriced if they're even available. But Fish found an affordable vacation rental. 

"We just had to book it farther in advance than we normally would," she said. 

Go ahead, follow the crowds this summer

I think it's fine to follow the crowds this summer. I'll be doing it. I'm planning to rent an apartment for a month in Switzerland with Blueground, a long-term apartment rental company. Then I'm crashing on a friend's sofa in Spain, then heading to Sweden to see other friends and visiting my brother in Finland. Yes, travel writers know people everywhere . 

But don't follow the crowds off a cliff. There are places even I won't go. I might take the four-hour train trip from Zurich to Paris in June to check out my favorite patisseries, but I wouldn't go anywhere near the City of Lights during the summer games in July unless I made a reservation a long time ago.

And Taylor Swift? Puh-leeze. I'm more of a jazz guy.

Christopher Elliott  is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded  Elliott Advocacy , a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes  Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the  Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can  reach him here  or email him at  [email protected] .

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This Iconic Kitchenware Brand Launches Culinary Trips That Include Harvesting Oysters in Normandy and Olive Oil Tasting in Marseille

The food-focused journeys will immerse travelers in French culinary traditions.

Chalffy/Getty Images/Courtesy of Sur La Table

Hungry for adventures? Sur La Table, the national retailer of cookware and bakeware, is entering the travel industry by launching a series of trips to immerse travelers in the culinary traditions of France. The Seattle-based company partnered with Academic Travel Abroad Inc., a decades-old cultural and educational travel provider, to host two curated itineraries in September and October, with more journeys coming up in 2025.

“At Sur La Table, we’re constantly looking for new ways to engage with our customers that bring to life our passion for cooking and celebrating cuisine from around the world,” Meredith Abbot, culinary director and trip expert at Sur La Table, told Travel+Leisure, noting that the partnership will allow the company to “take our signature cooking programming to the most iconic culinary destinations for a fully immersive trip.”

Hemis/Alamy/Courtesy of Sur La Table

Cooking classes, visits to local markets, food tours, and workshops with artisans will be some of the experiences included in the hyper-local itineraries. The first trip will take place from Sept. 1 until Sept. 8 and will introduce travelers to the gastronomic culture of Northwestern France. From learning to harvest mussels and oysters in the Bay of Biscay to making crepes in the historic port city of Saint-Malo, smoking salmon, and visiting the picture-perfect island of Mont Saint-Michel (at low tide, of course), this week-long trip will whisk travelers to some of the most beautiful corners of Brittany and Normandy. 

The second culinary journey, A Taste of Provence and the French Riviera will take place in Marseille and Nice from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6. Guests will try their hand at preparing classic Bouillabaisse seafood soup with a local chef, will learn all about sea salt production in the small village of Salins de Giraud, and will cook a classic Niçois meal with fresh produce from a local organic farm. Another highlight of this trip is a private tour of the Maison Empereur, the oldest specialty store in France. 

Both trips will include hands-on experiences and lectures so travelers leave with a better understanding of the history and culture of these distinct culinary regions. Groups will cap at 25 people, and rates start at $7,995, excluding flights. 

In a press release, Sur La Table said that its 2025 itineraries will include Paris and the South of Italy.

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Planning to Combine Business and Leisure Travel? You’re Not Alone.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are trying to figure out where their duty of care obligations begin and end.

Credit... Aart-Jan Venema

Supported by

By Amy Zipkin

• April 7, 2024

On a Sunday in late January, Melinda Buchmann, who lives in Florida and supervises client relations for RevShoppe, a 30-person remote company advising organizations on sales techniques and strategies, arrived in Banff, Alberta, to help set up a four-day company meeting.

The last day of the event, her husband, Josh, a director of strategic partnerships for the delivery company DoorDash , who also works remotely, joined her. They spent two leisurely days hiking in Banff National Park and visiting Lake Louise.

“I take advantage, because I don’t know when I’m going to return,” Ms. Buchmann said of the decision to combine downtime with a business trip.

As postpandemic work life has changed, and arrangements now include full-time office attendance as well as hybrid and remote work, so, too, has business travel. The phenomenon known as bleisure, or blended business and leisure travel, was initially embraced largely by digital nomads . But such combined travel is now also popular with people outside that group . Allied Market Research, a subsidiary of Allied Analytics, based in Portland, Ore., estimated that the bleisure travel market was $315.3 billion in 2022 and would reach $731.4 billion by 2032.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are struggling to determine where their legal obligation to protect employees from harm — their so-called duty of care — begins and ends. And workers may think that because their trip started with business, they will get all the help they need if something goes wrong on the leisure end. Instead, they should generally consider the leisure part of a trip as a regular vacation where they cover all expenses and contingencies.

Companies are responsible for knowing where their employees are during a business trip, covering expenses if an accident or emergency occurs, securing new lodging if a hotel is damaged, even swapping out a broken down rental car. Still, it’s not entirely clear if that coverage ends completely after the conference or the last client meeting.

Companies recognize that threats are increasing, said Robert Cole, senior research analyst focusing on lodging and leisure travel at Phocuswright, a market research company. They are trying to figure out how to take care of a valuable company resource, the employee, without leaving themselves open to financial risk or potential litigation.

“Crafting a comprehensive policy that balances business objectives, employee well-being and legal considerations can be challenging,” Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos, head of tourism at ICF, a consulting and technology services company in Reston, Va., wrote in an email.

Employees may be on their own without realizing it and may be surprised by out-of-pocket expenses if they require hospital care abroad or evacuation, said Suzanne Morrow, chief executive of InsureMyTrip , an online insurance travel comparison site in Warwick, R.I.

Ms. Morrow said medical coverage provided by a company “is generally only for the dates of the actual business trip abroad.” If travelers are extending the trip for personal travel, she added, “they would want to secure emergency medical coverage for that additional time abroad.”

Employers and employees are left to figure out when the business portion of the trip ends and the leisure segment begins, a significant detail if an employee has a medical emergency. “Where does the corporation liability end?” said Kathy Bedell, senior vice president at BCD Travel, a travel management company.

Companies have varying policies to deal with the new travel amalgam. The chief executive of RevShoppe, Patricia McLaren, based in Austin, Texas, said the company provided flexible travel options and allowed employees to work anywhere they choose.

Even so, there are constraints. The company requires all employees, including executives, to sign liability and insurance waivers when they are on a voluntary company-sponsored trip, such as an off-site meeting. Such waivers typically place responsibility on employees for their own well-being. And if they bring someone, they are responsible for that person’s expenses.

Employees are responsible for requesting the paid time off and notifying their managers of their whereabouts, although that part is not a requirement. Managers have to ensure adequate staffing, Ms. McLaren said.

Elsewhere, employees may not bother to mention the leisure portion of their trip. Eliot Lees, a vice president and managing director at ICF, said he had been on trips as a child with his parents when they combined business and leisure. His parents were academics, who would piggyback vacations onto conferences.

Now he does the same. “I don’t think I ever asked for approval,” he said. (ICF has no formal business-leisure travel policy. It’s allowed as part of personal time off.) After a conference in the Netherlands last year, he spent four days hiking in the northern part of the country.

“I go anywhere, and take more risks than I should,” he said. He said he didn’t carry personal travel or accident insurance.

Any nonchalance may quickly evaporate if a threat emerges. Security experts say even low-risk locations can become high-risk for a few days or weeks of the year.

“Companies are concerned about losing visibility into a traveler’s whereabouts if they booked flights and hotels outside their corporate travel management company,” Benjamin Thorne, senior intelligence manager in London for Crisis24, a subsidiary of GardaWorld, wrote in an email. “The company may think the traveler is in one city when, in reality, they could have booked a holiday package to another nearby city. This lack of visibility by the company makes it difficult to support travelers when a disaster occurs.”

He also raised the possibility that “a traveler with bleisure travel reservations and expectations may find their work trip canceled due to changes in the risk environment or company policy, disrupting their leisure plans.”

Will a company step in off hours if there’s a problem? “That depends on how you are booked,” Mr. Cole, the senior research analyst at Phocuswright, said. A rule of thumb is the further you get from corporate control, the greater the gray area gets.

Half of GoldSpring Consulting’s clients take the responsibility for the entire trip, said Will Tate, a partner at the consultancy based in Cross Roads, Texas, and a certified public accountant. They don’t want the reputational risk. The other half say: “The business trip ended Friday. That’s when we end our duty of care.”

Some companies are trying to define and narrow the gray area. “If you are clearly on personal time, there is no legal requirement for your employer to provide for you,” said Nicole Page, a lawyer whose practice includes employment law at Reavis Page Jump in New York.

Uber provides employees with advisories before a trip, travel assessments, safety tips while traveling and emergency travel assistance, including medical aid, airport travel support, urgent and emergency assistance, and lost or stolen personal property insurance whether they are on business or pleasure travel or a combination.

And at DoorDash, Chris Cherry, head of global safety and security, wrote in an email that “while personal travel is not something we track, we have received requests to extend our travel support capabilities to personal travel.” Mr. Cherry said in those cases, the company has manually added employee leisure itineraries to its travel risk management system and “provided the same level of overwatch that we do for regular business travel.”

The Buchmanns plan to travel this month to Barcelona, Spain, for the McDonald’s Worldwide Convention. DoorDash will have a booth, and Mr. Buchmann will work on the exhibit floor and also entertain clients.

Ms. Buchmann will accompany him. She plans to go sightseeing in the morning, and work in the afternoons and evenings Barcelona time. She will also take three days of paid time off and has shared her plans with Ms. McLaren, the RevShoppe chief executive.

They will stay a day after the conference and plan to visit the Dalí Theater and Museum in Figueres. “I’m sure there will be no shortage of tapas and window shopping along way,” Mr. Buchmann said. He expects to be back at work the next Monday.

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Pope will travel to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore in longest trip of papacy

FILE -Pope Francis waves as he leaves after his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican announced Friday, April 12 ,2024, confirming the longest trip of Francis’ papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File)

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VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican announced Friday, confirming the longest trip of Francis’ papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility.

The Vatican confirmed the Sept. 2-13 visit, saying the 87-year-old pope would visit Jakarta, Indonesia; Port Moresby and Vanimo, Papua New Guinea; Dili, East Timor; and Singapore. Further details will be announced later.

Francis’ health has become a source of increasing concern and speculation, even though the pontiff is able to carry on with a rigorous schedule of meetings at the Vatican and even excursions to local parishes.

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, had to cancel a planned visit to Dubai late last year after he came down with a bad case of bronchitis. He suffered from respiratory problems all winter and had to curtail his participation in Holy Week events to save his energy for Easter.

Francis has also been using a wheelchair for nearly two years because of bad knee ligaments, and has said that traveling has become increasingly more difficult.

And yet at 11 days, the trip would be the longest of Francis’ papacy, outpacing by a few days some of his long trips to the Americas early on in his 11-year papacy. It will bring the Argentine Jesuit to the world’s most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia, as well as the former Portuguese colony of East Timor, where the Catholic Church wields enormous influence.

There is also a chance of another leg to the trip being added later: This week, the Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, was in Vietnam and discussed a papal visit, Vatican News reported, without providing details.

In a statement announcing the visit, the Indonesian foreign ministry welcomed the visit and recalled that it had originally been scheduled for 2020 but was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia holds significant importance to the Indonesian people, not only for Catholics but also for all religious communities. The visit is also expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity and world peace,” the statement said.

Indonesia is home to roughly 242 million Muslims and 29 million Christians — 8.5 million of whom are Catholics — according to a 2022 report by the Religious Affairs Ministry.

East Timor, which today has a population of about 1.2 million people, is Southeast Asia’s only predominantly Christian nation with the exception of the Philippines. According to the 2015 census, 97.6% of East Timor’s population is Catholic.

The visit to East Timor will likely reignite attention over a clergy sex abuse scandal involving its revered independence hero and Nobel Peace Prize winner. The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that it had sanctioned Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo following allegations that he sexually abused boys there during the 1990s. Belo is believed to now be living in Portugal.

Francis will be the first pope to visit Papua New Guinea since St. John Paul II went there in 1984. The country, in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, has struggled with tribal violence and civil unrest.

John Paul also visited Singapore, in 1986. The country today is home to 395,000 Catholics and Francis in 2022 made its archbishop Singapore’s first cardinal.

In a statement welcoming the visit, Cardinal William Goh, said it “will bring renewed fervor to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times.”

The Vatican has planned only one other papal trip this year — to Belgium to celebrate the anniversary of the country’s Catholic university. Francis has also said he wants to return to his native Argentina , but no plans or dates have been announced.

Karmini contributed from Jakarta, Indonesia.

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• 10 Day Costa Rica Adventure
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• Gals Who Ski - 7 Day Andorra Apres & Ski
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• 10 Day Philippines West
• 11 Day Europe By Rail

Gals Who Travel is a community that provides a safe space for young female travellers to explore the world together. These trips are the perfect opportunity to travel safely with likeminded people of a similar age. The majority of the group are usually solo travellers but of course you can grab a friend to join you! After the unforgettable experience’s you have as a group the bond you leave with is a friendship for life! All groups will be set up with a group chat prior to departure so you can connect with other going on your trip, get to know one another and even plan your further travel together!!

*please note, Brontë will be on some but not all Gals Who Travel trips.

We’re taking backpacking to the next level! If you’re dreaming of unspoilt sandy beaches, dazzling cocktail views & waking up in pure tropical paradise, You’re in the right place. Live your best life as we explore, Khao Sok National Park, Railay, Phi Phi & Phuket in style. Island hop pristine white beaches & turquoise blue waters. From fine dining & charming hotels to breathtaking viewpoints & infinity pools. Tantalising Thailand, you’ll thank us later.

Our Flashpacker style is for those who want to experience our bucket list activities, but with a little more comfort and style. We've included all the best bits of our Classic tours but with higher standards of accommodation, transport and activities. Done the hostel vibe? Then this is your natural progression. It still has the epic backpacker vibe, but a bit more boujee. We like to call it ballin’ on a budget. From backpacker to Flashpacker.

Khao Sok National Park.. Pure Thailand paradise. We'll spend the night sleeping in raft accomodation floating on the emerald green lake. Walk the deck beer in hand before taking just a few steps to jump into the magical waters of Khao Sok. A favourite for all those that get the chance to visit whilst in Thailand!

Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise as we stay in secluded bamboo cottages, each with its own private balcony & air conditioning. Surrounded by emerald-green mountains, the views are out of this world. Our hotel includes a stunning infinity pool with sun loungers, perfect for poolside cocktails & relaxing whilst overlooking the scenic Andaman Sea. Perfection. We stay amongst the luscious jungle in Tru Thai authentic luxury accommodation. Yeah, for real.

Phi Phi Islands, the place of dreams, the Instagram hotspot, complete and utter beach bliss. Welcome to paradise! We stay across 2 hotels in Koh Phi Phi both as gorgeous as each other! he rooms are spacious with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs and en-suite bathrooms. Comfort at it's finest. The location is ideal close to nightlife and restaurants, the views are breathtaking, and the cocktails? Well, they're delicious.

Charming, stylish and enchanting. Our hotel in Phuket is next-level beauty. A relaxing retreat just a short walk from the glorious Karon Beach. With glistening resort swimming pools and vibrant, spacious rooms, you'll feel at home in no time. With your very own private balcony overlooking the hotel's stunning architecture and long winding crystal clear pool, our hotel is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring Thailand's beauty and culture. Check into the spa and rejuvenate with a massage, indulge in the restaurant's famous cuisine or sit back and relax poolside on a sun lounger. You're in paradise after all.

Tour Itinerary

Welcome to thailand.

Arrive in Phuket and welcome to paradise! Thailand is the dream destination for many first time travellers but the islands are really where it’s at! This is the start of the best goddamn 9 days of your life. We’re ready and waiting at the airport to pick you up. So grab your bags, and we’re on our way! We take you to our first hotel where you can relax the day away. The afternoon is free to spend as you please, it’s been a long flight, so connect to the wifi and order any and every cocktail that contains a funky umbrella or colourful straw. Start your boujee adventure as you mean to go on, right? In the evening we meet up with the rest of the group and the gals you’ll be spending the next 9 days with. It’s our first night, so we grab a welcome dinner and see where the night takes us..

Magical Khao Sok National Park

How was your first night? Of course, it was out of this world. You’ve met your gals of course! We grab breakfast before heading to our first destination on tour and of course we go big, like big BIG. We’re going to the magical Khao Sok National Park! Emerald green waters, floating bungalows and raft houses surrounded by limestone mountains and wildlife. We take a mini van then a long tail boat to our destination. To say this is a bucket list ticking experience is the understatement of the century. Khao Sok National Park is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the beauty that is Thailand. We’ll spend the day swimming in the lake, kayaking around these jaw dropping surroundings before sitting back with a beer in hand as the sun goes down. Khao Sok National Park is the perfect place to start our gals trip and trust us, it will be a night to remember!

A Railay good time!

It’s a chilled morning with breakfast lake-front with the gals. Today we bid farewell to the jaw dropping Khao Sok National Park and head to our next destination Krabi! We check into our luxury hotel. A beautiful resort located in Railay, relax by the infinity pool surrounded by limestone mountains. Freshen up before hitting the beach. We’re sailing into the sunset, Disney style. Well, not quite we’re kayaking, but the experience is just as magical. GoPros at the ready, as we kayak into the hidden gem of Phra Nang Cave. A tru-ly authentic Thai experience, known to bring good fortune and fertility from the legend that is Phra Nang sea princess goddess herself. As the sun goes down, we paddle back to the beach where cocktails are calling our name. Hey, we’ve worked up a sweat. It’s only right we have a daiquiri or 5. A TruExclusive, a Tru experience and a Tru memory like no other.

Viewpoints and rock climbing baby!

Rise and shine! It’s an early one, we leave the hotel around 8 am and take a hike up to one of Thailand’s most famous viewpoints. The views are breathtaking, the hike, maybe a little breathtaking too.. But so worth it when you get to the top! Insta worthy shots for sure. *This morning's hike is optional if you fancy a lay in!* In the afternoon we head out rock climbing! Climb the limestone cliffs and sea the stunning sea from up high! In the evening we hit up the best beach bars for a well needed and deserved drink. Boujee cocktails only, please.

We’re in Phi Phi BEACHES!

Next stop Phi Phi island! Phi Phi is famous for many things other than the filming of a young Leonardo Dicaprio in The Beach. Hey, he’s gorgeous, and we’re still swooning..We love Leo, both the babe and the Thai beer. But Phi Phi is so much more than that. Golden sandy beaches, pristine blue waters. It’s heaven. We catch the boat across and once arriving the afternoon is yours to do as you please. Catch some zzz’s on the beach, grab an acai bowl smoothie or relax in our fancy-ass hotel. There’s no better place to watch the sun go down than the famous Phi Phi viewpoint, so we head there for sunset. Grab your TruFam in close, the skies are golden orange and candy floss purple. Pure perfection. Phi Phi’s nightlife is POPPIN. So if you fancy partying your flip flops off, or watching a wild fire show on the beach, well we’re with you every step on the way. What happens in Phi Phi stays in Phi Phi right?

Island hopping Phi Phi!

Wake up to the sounds of the waves, the fresh, crisp sea air, walk outside you’re in paradise. It’s a chilled one before we jump on a speed boat to explore. James Bond style. Sunglasses on, wind in your hair, we’re island hopping in style! We sail the turquoise blue waters, speed through the emerald green scenic views. Trust us, there’s nowhere else you’d rather be in the world. We hit the gems that are Monkey Island, (no really there’s monkey’s there) Viking Cave and Pileh Lagoon. All as different and tru-ly spectacular as the next. Like we said we don’t do average, we do bucket list ticking, mind-blowingly awesome. Jump in! We spend the afternoon snorkelling and swimming and having some delicious lunch onboard. Bliss. We watch the sun go down as the night comes alive, and the plankton shines bright.. Anyone fancy an evening dip? Another unbelievable day brought to you by TruTravels, you’re very welcome.

PHUKET, LET’S GO

Today we say goodbye to Phi Phi, we miss you already and catch the ferry and a minivan back to Phuket. The largest of the Thai islands! The afternoon is free to chill and do whatever you fancy! From action to relaxation Phuket’s got it all, your Travel Ninja can point you in the right direction for any afternoon activities you want to tick off that bucket list. We’ve got a big day tomorrow, so let’s unwind. I think a luxurious massage or spa treatment courtesy of yours Tru-ly will do. Yeah, we know how to spoil you ;)

An El of a good time!

Today is our last full day together and what a trip it’s been! So we head to the local elephant sanctuary to visit Thailand’s national animal. We get up close with these friendly giants and learn how they are rehabilitated and cared for day to day. Animal welfare is extremely close to our hearts at Tru, and the elephants here are free to roam and are not here for the entertainment of tourists. We educate ourselves and use this opportunity to distribute funds to programmes that do good. Hey, it’s an El of a morning! ;) We arrive back early afternoon and have a few hours to get ready for our final night! Go big or go home! We head to one of Phuket’s most famous spots for sunset in Promthep Cape and have a delicious dinner on the beach and see where the night takes us. It’s our last night, so it’s only right we make it one to remember... We can already taste the sex on the beach..cocktails.

Farewell...For now!

Check out day, we’re not crying you are. Have a chilled morning, It’s been an unreal 9 days of exploring Thailand in Tru comfort in style. Backpacking but make it boujee, you get the drift TruFam. All good things must come to an end, and we’re gutted to see you leave. Your Travel Ninja is on hand for and any onward travel plans you may have, or even an impromptu sadness induced hug. All the important stuff. You’re a member of the TruFam now so let’s not say goodbye but see you soon. In the words of Arnie. Hasta La Vista Baby.

Trip Departure Dates

What level of accommodation is on a flashpacker trip.

Our accommodation is of a higher standard for comfort and style, we stay in beautiful hotels and resorts, with stunning views. We’ve specifically chosen our hotels and suppliers to ensure every moment is tailored to a flashpacker lifestyle from the rooms to the surroundings, we stay in paradise.

What type of transportation is used?

We’ve perfected our Flashpacker tour for maximum comfort and minimum travel times. We use private minivans for a lot of our transport or if it’s a long way, we’ll catch a flight. No stress.

Where does the trip start & Finish?

The trip begins in Phuket and finishes in Phuket.

Is my money protected?

Yep! You’re protected. TruTravels is both ABTA and ATOL registered meaning your money is safe. We also offer 1 free date change before 60 days of your departure date.

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

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The bridge over Zolotoy Rog Bay in Vladivostok

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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Pope will travel to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore in longest trip of papacy

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Pope Francis will visit Indonesia, East Timor, Papua New Guinea and Singapore in September, the Vatican announced Friday, confirming the longest trip of Francis’ papacy that is sure to test his health, stamina and mobility.

The Vatican confirmed the Sept. 2-13 visit, saying the 87-year-old pope would visit Jakarta, Indonesia; Port Moresby and Vanimo, Papua New Guinea; Dili, East Timor; and Singapore. Further details will be announced later.

Francis’ health has become a source of increasing concern and speculation, even though the pontiff is able to carry on with a rigorous schedule of meetings at the Vatican and even excursions to local parishes.

Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, had to cancel a planned visit to Dubai late last year after he came down with a bad case of bronchitis. He suffered from respiratory problems all winter and had to curtail his participation in Holy Week events to save his energy for Easter.

Francis has also been using a wheelchair for nearly two years because of bad knee ligaments, and has said that traveling has become increasingly more difficult.

And yet at 11 days, the trip would be the longest of Francis’ papacy, outpacing by a few days some of his long trips to the Americas early on in his 11-year papacy. It will bring the Argentine Jesuit to the world’s most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia, as well as the former Portuguese colony of East Timor, where the Catholic Church wields enormous influence.

There is also a chance of another leg to the trip being added later: This week, the Vatican foreign minister, Archbishop Paul Gallagher, was in Vietnam and discussed a papal visit, Vatican News reported, without providing details.

In a statement announcing the visit, the Indonesian foreign ministry welcomed the visit and recalled that it had originally been scheduled for 2020 but was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The visit of Pope Francis to Indonesia holds significant importance to the Indonesian people, not only for Catholics but also for all religious communities. The visit is also expected to strengthen the message of tolerance, unity and world peace,” the statement said.

Indonesia is home to roughly 242 million Muslims and 29 million Christians — 8.5 million of whom are Catholics — according to a 2022 report by the Religious Affairs Ministry.

East Timor, which today has a population of about 1.2 million people, is Southeast Asia’s only predominantly Christian nation with the exception of the Philippines. According to the 2015 census, 97.6% of East Timor’s population is Catholic.

The visit to East Timor will likely reignite attention over a clergy sex abuse scandal involving its revered independence hero and Nobel Peace Prize winner. The Vatican confirmed in 2022 that it had sanctioned Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo following allegations that he sexually abused boys there during the 1990s. Belo is believed to now be living in Portugal.

Francis will be the first pope to visit Papua New Guinea since St. John Paul II went there in 1984. The country, in a strategically important part of the South Pacific, has struggled with tribal violence and civil unrest.

John Paul also visited Singapore, in 1986. The country today is home to 395,000 Catholics and Francis in 2022 made its archbishop Singapore’s first cardinal.

In a statement welcoming the visit, Cardinal William Goh, said it “will bring renewed fervor to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times.”

The Vatican has planned only one other papal trip this year — to Belgium to celebrate the anniversary of the country’s Catholic university. Francis has also said he wants to return to his native Argentina , but no plans or dates have been announced.

Karmini contributed from Jakarta, Indonesia.

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