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Experience the freedom of solo travel with Exotic Tour and Travel’s exclusive solo tours tour packages. Designed for the adventurous spirit seeking exploration and self-discovery, our packages offer a seamless blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you crave a soulful journey through ancient ruins or an adrenaline-pumping escapade in the great outdoors, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we pave the way for unforgettable solo adventures, where every moment is yours to embrace. Embrace the world on your own terms with Exotic Tour and Travel.

Are you ready for the ultimate college adventure? Introducing Exotic Tour and Travel’s exclusive college tour service! Dive into a world of exploration, education, and excitement as we curate unforgettable journeys tailored just for you. From historic landmarks to cultural hotspots, we’ll guide you through immersive experiences that enrich your academic path. Trust Exotic Tour and Travel to turn your college years into an unforgettable odyssey. Book your adventure today and embark on the journey of a lifetime!

Exotic Tour and Travel invites you to embark on the perfect honeymoon getaway with our exclusive tour packages. Let us sweep you off your feet with our meticulously crafted itineraries, designed to create cherished memories that last a lifetime. From romantic beach escapes to enchanting city adventures, our tailored packages cater to every couple’s dream. Trust us to handle all the details while you focus on savoring each moment together. Start your journey of love with Exotic Tour and Travel today.

Discover unforgettable family adventures with Exotic Tour and Travel’s exceptional tour packages. Whether you’re craving thrilling theme park escapades, serene nature retreats, or cultural immersions, we have the zitinerary for your family. Let us take care of all the logistics, ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience for you and your loved ones. Create cherished memories together as you explore the world with Exotic Tour and Travel. Book your family tour package today and embark on an unforgettable journey of bonding and discovery.

Incredible India

Discover the magic of India with Exotic Tour and Travel’s incredible tour packages. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty that this diverse land has to offer. From the majestic Taj Mahal to the serene backwaters of Kerala, our meticulously curated itineraries showcase the best of India’s treasures. Let us guide you through ancient temples, bustling markets, and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable journey that captures the essence of Incredible India. Book your adventure with Exotic Tour and Travel today and let the wonders of India unfold before you.

Around the World

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Exotic Tour and Travel’s Around the World tour packages. Experience the thrill of exploring diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic landmarks across the globe. From the majestic pyramids of Egypt to the vibrant streets of Tokyo, our expertly curated itineraries ensure you make the most of every moment. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or venturing out for the first time, let us handle the logistics while you indulge in the wonders of the world. Book your unforgettable journey with Exotic Tour and Travel today.

  Explore India’s hidden gems and traverse the globe with our curated tour packages. From the tranquil backwaters of Kerala to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, our tours promise unforgettable experiences. 

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Exoticca Travel Review: A Reliable & Legit Tour Operator?

Predesigned itineraries and travel packages are life savers for some travelers. Exoticca is one of the number-one travel package choices, but are its services a good investment of your time and money?

If your next trip is coming up, you're probably busy making all the plans. Hours and hours later, you've done all the research possible and made several phone calls to create a successful trip.

You and I both know it—behind every successful trip, a traveler works overtime to organize everything effectively.

But worry not! If you want to skip it all, you can ditch the entire planning stage by going with Exoticca Travel. Once you've decided on the customized package you want, all you need to do is pay and enjoy your trip stress-free.

Oh, and it's still essential to remember budget travel tips if you're trying to ensure your trip stays affordable and within your budget!

But does this sound too good to be true? And what about using competitor travel booking agencies, like Luxury Escapes or G-Adventures ?

In my Exoticca Travel review, you'll find everything you need to decide whether this trip-planning company is the way to book your next getaway. I'll go over things like features, areas of improvement, and even other customer reviews.

Find out what you need to know so that you won't regret spending your hard-earned money!

What Is Exoticca Travel?

Exoticca is an online travel agency that delivers customizable and premade travel bundles. The packages can be for multiple countries, and it has travel packages for each continent.

Exoticca Travel has been operating since 2013 after Pere Vallespí founded it. The company initially started in Spain. But now Exoticca is branching out to Western countries as well.

As of my article's publishing date, the company also operates in Canada and the United States.

Exoticca is all about taking the planning stress off your shoulders! Whether you’re into exploring new places, chilling in luxury, or even dreaming about the perfect honeymoon, it's got something for everyone.

Exoticca travel experts handle the nitty-gritty—transportation, accommodation, and activities—so all you need to do is kick back and enjoy your vacation!

How Does Exoticca Work?

Exoticca operates as a comprehensive travel platform. As I mentioned, it aims to streamline your vacation planning process and provide a variety of travel experiences.

But how does it do it, and are the deals legit?

Exoticca's low prices and diverse offerings are made possible based on a few factors.

First off, Exoticca travel agency has partnerships with local providers and sub-contractors to actually carry out the tours. That means that the company is able to offer localized vacation packages in diverse locations, whether it's a trek through the Amazon or an island-hopping itinerary through Greece.

Another thing to remember is that Exoticca has been in business for a while. That means that it has done strategic negotiations with suppliers and partners to keep giving customers great prices.

Another factor to its pricing is that Exoticca Travel bundles its services and, therefore, leverages economies of scale. In simpler terms, because it does repeat business and can book larger groups, it can sometimes get better prices than you doing it on your own!

How to Use Exoticca Travel?

Using Exoticca's website is quite simple due to its user-friendly interface. The team always aims to make everything seamless for travelers.

Similarly, with a few easy steps, you can easily book your next vacation with Exoticca Travel:

• When you enter their website, you'll get bombarded with colorful visuals. Scroll through all the travel packages. You can also search by continent or travel style. These options are on the menu bar.
• After choosing the package that intrigues you, it is time to review the plan. The package mentions all the trip highlights and what things are included in the program.
• If you want to add or remove something from the itinerary, you can do that. Then, contact an Exoticca travel advisor.
• If the itinerary seems satisfying, it's time to make your reservation!
• Exoticca Travel will ask for your details. And you'll need to sign the terms and conditions.
• Lastly, pay the deposit amount.

Exoticca Travel's customer service will assist you through every step to improve your experience.

Examples of Exoticca Itineraries

So I've been telling you all about the vacations that Exoticca offers. But that's not the same as actually hearing about examples.

I find that sometimes people like specific examples instead of more broad statements. That's why I wanted to lay out some of the trips that seemed interesting to me while I was researching Exoticca:

• Southeast Asian Odyssey: This is a 19-day/17-night itinerary that takes travelers through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand for 50% off, meaning customers only pay ~US$3,599 per person currently.
• Wildlife Parks & Serengeti Safari: Explore Tanzania for 9 days and 7 nights, seeing beautiful landscapes and exciting wildlife for ~$6,499 per person.
• Land of the Berbers, Madrid & Barcelona: Join a group to see Spain and Morocco over 16 days and 14 nights—you'll only pay $3,499 per person, which is 35% off Exoticca's regular pricing for this trip.

I've included some pricing here, but please be mindful that this changes quickly. I wanted to make you aware of the prices I saw so that you can better gauge the deals that Exoticca offers—even if you don't see the same promotions!

The Best Features of Exoticca Travel

Exoticca Travel is winning many travelers' hearts through its unique services. If you are wondering why people are raving about this platform, this is because of the features. Let's look at some of the most loved features of Exoticca tours.

Expert Planning Guidance

One of the main winning points of Exoticca Travel is professionalism. Besides, you can consult their travel specialist to plan your trip. The travel specialist is knowledgeable about all the destinations.

In addition, Exoticca can help you customize your plans within your budget. The Exoticca travel specialists can also enlighten you about each destination.

Reliability

Reliability is a huge factor when you are planning with a travel agency. With Exoticca Travel, you don't have to second-guess its reliability.

Firstly, it's a well-known company in many traveling communities.

Exoticca Travel is a United States Tour Operators Association member and the International Air Transport Association. Being transparent with the customer is one of its top priorities.

Notable Customer Service

Exoticca tries to have transparent two-way communication with its users. The customer service representatives have expert knowledge about dealing with inquiries.

Customer service care is reachable from social media, emails, and live chats. The customer support team always aims to get back to you through emails within 48 hours.

You can even chat with customer service staff through live chat.

It's also worth mentioning that these service representatives can also give you helpful insights. They can provide recommendations and guides as well.

Customizable

This feature is Exoticca's main selling point. You can mix and match your traveling plans. On top of that, there are several options for traveling styles. You can even choose what season you want to travel in.

Exoticca Travel is providing you the level of flexibility to add your interests as well. Simply put, this trip planning company gives you the blueprint for your trip plans.

What Is the Pricing of Exoticca Travel?

When it comes to pricing, it depends on each package. The multi-country package will be more expensive than a single-country package.

That said, Exoticca Travel tries to maintain competitive pricing. It wants to provide the best value within your budget.

Due to the freedom of customization, you can also edit to try and match your price. If you want, you can select luxury travel or budget travel. Exoticca also shows the best price available within the season.

Exoticca Travel will ask you to deposit 30% of the total amount. Around 60 days before, you need to pay the final payment.

The company accepts cards, mobile banking, and bank transfers.

Does Exoticca Travel Have a Return Policy?

The worst nightmare of every travel enthusiast is trip cancellation, or lack there of.

Uncertainties are inevitable, and there are many cases where you have to cancel at the last moment. But no worries—Exoticca Travel has a well-structured refund policy.

If you cancel the trip before the final payment, you can get a refund on your deposit. That means you must cancel for a refund at least 60 days prior.

It can become tricky to get a refund if you cancel after making the final payment. In most cases, you might have to pay a penalty or a cancellation fee.

One extra thing to consider is that Exoticca offers one of the best travel insurance options. It gives coverage for accidents or other unpredictable situations.

How Can Exoticca Travel Benefit You?

Exoticca Travel can make your travel experience less stressful. This platform is handy for travelers who find planning difficult. Casual travelers or vacationers can also use this platform.

Its predesigned packages can give you a starting point for your plans. Moreover, for busy people, Exoticca's services are highly effective.

Plus, you might not have adequate information about the destination if you're a beginner traveler. So, Exoticca fills up that gap with expert travel specialists.

Planning with a travel agency has advantages. You can get insurance and support when things don't go right. And for example, Exoticca Travel takes care of incidents like lost baggage or medical situations.

What Others Are Saying About Exoticca Tours

I also wanted to know this before I considered booking! That's why I did a deep dive on the current Exoticca Travel reviews available on the Internet.

Many travelers praise the diverse travel options, catering to various styles, from adventurous tours to luxury escapes.

The stress-free planning and all-inclusive packages have notably struck a chord. After all if Exoticca Travel plans everything well, then travelers can immerse themselves in the journey without the fuss.

Past customers have also referenced Exoticca’s responsive customer service team, contributing to seamless and enjoyable travel experiences to fun, exotic destinations.

Even if you go to other trusted websites, most Exoticca tour reviews are positive, including those that comment on forums like TripAdvisor and Trustpilot!

That said, there are also negative reviews of Exoticca Travel online.

A few users have talked about their desire for greater pricing transparency and more consistent quality in accommodations.

Additionally, some travelers encountered hiccups with last-minute itinerary changes, which means even the experts can continue to learn about better communication and planning!

Exoticca Travel Alternatives

For travelers seeking alternatives to Exoticca Travel, several options cater to various preferences and travel styles.

Just to make sure you get all the info you need, I put together a quick comparison of some of Exoticca's top competitors:

Intrepid Travel

Best For: Adventure seekers and solo travelers.

Intrepid focuses on small-group adventure tours, emphasizing responsible travel and authentic experiences.

Booking with this travel agency is ideal for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path destinations and interacting with local communities.

G Adventures

Best For: Social travelers and those looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation.

G Adventures offers a wide range of tours, from classic sightseeing to active adventures, emphasizing sustainable travel.

It’s an excellent fit for those who enjoy meeting new people and varied travel experiences.

Luxury Escapes

Best For: Luxury travelers seeking premium experiences.

Luxury Escapes specializes in high-end travel packages, offering exclusive deals on 5-star accommodations, gourmet dining, and personalized experiences.

It's ideal for travelers looking for a touch of indulgence and tailored services.

Best For: Young adults and social butterflies.

Calling all young, excited travelers! Contiki is for you if you love to socialize and have fun with other young travelers.

All of Contiki's tours are organized to emphasize fun, socializing, and exploring. It’s a solid choice for younger travelers looking to meet like-minded individuals and enjoy a lively travel experience.

While these alternatives offer diverse experiences for various traveler types, many choose Exoticca for its unique blend of customizable options and cost-effective packages.

Whether you're seeking adventure, luxury, or cultural immersion, now you know more about Exoticca and the similar options you can choose from.

Is Exoticca Travel Worth It?

I think it's worth it for certain people to try Exoticca Travel!

If you find planning stressful or don't have enough time and still want your trip to be planned out perfectly, then checking out Exoticca may be a good idea. The same goes for if you like to be guided by professionals.

But if you enjoy making your own itinerary or want to save more money by using budget traveling hacks during the booking process, you may want to go at it alone. Or you could look at alternatives.

And if you sit somewhere in the middle, I say give Exoticca a chance. The Exoticca Travel company has many reviews saying it curates excellent, authentic, personalized experiences.

So, if you're on the fence, you can discuss options with the team and then decide whether a specific itinerary is for you or not!

Our Rating: 3.9/5

• Predesigned travel packages for all around the world
• Excellent customer support
• Flexibility for customization
• Get help from travel experts
• Cancellation fees and penalty
• Lack of total control
• Some expectations not met

Enhance Your Travel Plans!

If you are looking for someone to make all your planning trips, then Exoticca Travel is the answer. It can be a lot easier when you have someone else doing the planning for you.

But if that doesn't sound like the right route for you, you can get help in the form of an easy-to-use and collaborative trip planner. Cue Pilot, where you can plan trips easily yourself...

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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  Worldwide Xplorer  custom exotic tours  

Making thousands of travel dreams come true since 2012!

Multi-Day Guided Group and Custom Tours

Us national parks and historic places, wildlife viewing safaris in africa, peru, costa rica & ecuador, explore wild places around the world with expert guides.

Experience the wonder and beauty in the USA! National parks and more. What are your bucket list destinations?

Wildlife viewing safaris in various parts of Africa. Love animals? You'll love a safari!

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Let us plan the perfect cruise for you, pretty much anywhere you can dream of going!

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“I found an American company called WorldwideXplorer that was willing to tailor their  14-day safari  for me and me alone. Marisa looked after my booking, and she was always very helpful.”

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“Having a travel advisor making sure that our daughter's allergy issues were communicated and the peace of mind knowing all the details would be taken care of made it an easy choice.  Knowing Marisa and how skilled she is kept our stress levels low.”

— Andrea Salazar, Carrington, North Dakota

About Marisa Meisters

Travel and photography have been two of Marisa's passions for as long as she can remember. She earned her M.S. in International Hospitality Management from the University of Surrey in the UK. After a brief career in the IT world, she founded WorldwideXplorer, where she could put her passion into practice.

Marisa served on the board of directors for a local business organization for several years, and currently serves on the board of directors for a local photography organization.

Marisa is passionate about nature and wildlife as well. Many WorldwideXplorer tours visit wildlife and humanitarian organizations and schools around the world.

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Exoticca reviews & ratings, first trip to europe an excellent experience.

The trip was well laid out. Tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. The only complaint is some of our travel documents that were sent out were not in English. I...

A great trip to Morocco!

A great trip to Morocco made better by a super great guide, Mounir M. We saw a lot that the country had to offer and Mounir provided additional insight and detail th...

Everything was seamless

Everything was seamless. The tour guide was outstanding, sharing way more information than guides usually do. The driver was amazing, navigating the coach over nar...

MRS S STONE

Tremendous sights

Tremendous sights, sounds and smells throughout Northern Turkey.

Buena organización

Buena ruta. Buena organización y una app muy fácil de usar, en la que encuentras la información muy rápido Hoteles bien, guías también y tener tiempo libre para org...

See all Exoticca reviews

Editoral Review of Exoticca

Exoticca is a team of over 50 product crafters and curators who create quality trips at unbeatable prices. Their trips focus on immersing travelers in the nature , wildlife and culture of each destination.

What Makes Exoticca Stand Out?

• Affordable trips 
• Eco-friendly and responsible travel
• Expert crafted itineraries
• Tested tours

Exoticca offers great prices for extraordinary trips. Most of their tours fall between the 1,000 and 2,000 dollar range but the lowest price is $799 for a trip to Peru. Exoticca can achieve these low prices without sacrificing quality in their trips because they negotiate and purchase each component directly from the final provider. They also sell all trips online rather than having an in-person office and they work with suppliers to minimize costs for travelers.

When creating trips and sending travelers around the world, Exoticca strives to “show the utmost respect and admiration for other cultures and the environment”. They have a special admiration and respect for various cultures , communities, and environments, and they try to plan their itinerary in such a manner that helps you to indulge in the local cultures while also impacting these cultures and people in a positive way.

All itineraries are curated and crafted by travel experts with inside knowledge and unique skills depending on their backgrounds. This results in unforgettable travel packages for travelers with all the best experiences included. The highly qualified customer service team is always there to help you and provide guidance over the phone.

Every component of Exoticca offered tours are tested to ensure everything meets high standards of quality and safety. All hotels are 3.5 stars or higher and have a minimum of 65% “excellent” or “Very good” reviews.

Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Exoticca?

• Nature lovers
• Culture and history enthusiasts
• Budget travelers

Exoticca trips are for people of all age groups from all around the world. No matter what your interests are or what travel style, schedule or budget you have, Exoticca offers the perfect trip for everyone.

Most trips with Exoticca include experiences in nature . Travelers have great opportunities to visit nature parks, go on wildlife safaris and explore beaches and deserts. Exoticca travelers love immersing themselves in nature and seeing wildlife up close and personal.

Exoticca travelers are also history and culture enthusiasts. As found in their mantra, every trip is designed to give travelers the best cultural experience while leaving a positive impact on the local community. Exoticca crafts each trip to give travelers a closer experience with the people, culture and nature no matter the destination.

Whether you want to have a cultural trip to some historical European destination or a religious trip in Nepal , whether you want to explore the natural treasures of Africa or the vibrant culture of America , you can have everything you want in your perfect vacation plan with the help of Exoticca trips.

Exoticca is perfect for the budget traveler . They offer once in a lifetime trips at affordable prices. Budget travelers often think that working with a tour operator may be more expensive, but Exoticca helps you find the best prices with their connections and travel knowledge. Working with Exoticca will not only save you time but money on your trip which will only take some of the stress off your shoulders so you can better enjoy your travel experience.

Top Destinations

Exoticca trips take you around the world to the most exotic destinations to let you have the most memorable time of your life. They offer trips to Africa , Americas , Asia , Europe and Oceania .

Discover vast America and its Amazonian rainforests, vibrant streets, monstrous glaciers, turquoise seas, to name only a few. Choose from multiple Asian trips and enjoy the serene coastlines, pioneering cities with ancient tales of glory, stunning landscapes, and intriguing traditions. 

A variety of African trips can take you through the vast plains of the continent with spritely gazelle, spectacular landscape, natural forests, or abundant wildlife. The Europe trips give you the chance to witness the cultural hotspots, achingly romantic squares with immense historical background, majestic mountains with snow-covered peaks, amazing architecture, historical monuments, and fabulous fjords.

Exoticca Travel Style

With Exoticca trips, you can have the most exciting and comfortable trip at the most reasonable price. They cover all the necessary services like flights, accommodation, transportation, activities, tours, and a lot more.

Exoticca ensures a certain level of luxury for each trip and destination. Travelers can rest assured that hotels, transportation and the local communities they will be spending their time with are tested, safe and comfortable as well as affordable.

Trips are often categorized by destination but Exoticca also helps travelers find the perfect beach escape or short trip. No matter the travel style, schedule or budget, Exoticca works with each traveler to create the perfect trip for their tastes. It’s not one size fits all. It’s experience, cultural immersion and affordability to match each traveler exactly to their desired specifications.

Why Exoticca?

If you love nature , wildlife and culture , Exoticca is perfect for you. Traveling into local communities and going on safaris excites you but you also enjoy a high standard of luxury and comfort when it comes to accommodations and tour style.

Exoticca is also a great choice for budget travelers who love making every dollar count. The travel experts at Exoticca are striving to provide the best possible quality services so that you can have perfect vacation time to your dream destination. Travelers can rest assured that their time with Exoticca will only result in the best trip for their wallet and their travel desires.

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About the company.

Our mission is to make people’s dream trips come true

Travel packages crafted by experts:

Our team of over 50 product crafters and curators have travelled extensively to the destinations they cover. They harness their insider knowledge and unique skills to handcraft unforgettable holiday packages. Each and every one of our itineraries are designed to ensure you have the best possible experience in every destination.

Along with our passion for excellence, all our incredible packages are created under the Exoticca mantra of showing the utmost respect and admiration for other cultures and the environment.

How do we ensure quality?

Each component of our trips has been rigorously tested to ensure it meets our exceptionally high standards. For example, we only include hotels that meet the following minimum criteria:

All our hotels require a minimum of 3.5 stars (out of 5) on TripAdvisor.

They also require a minimum of 65% of “Excellent”, or “Very good” reviews from other users.

How do we achieve the lowest prices?

Desintermediation: We negotiate and purchase each component of your trip directly from the final provider.

Technology: We have automated all our internal processes and work directly with our suppliers to minimize costs and ensure efficiency.

Online channel: We sell our trips online to eliminate to cut out the costs of running a physical store.

Exoticca Trips & Specials

Want a tailor-made trip instead, your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top Exoticca Trip Categories

Exoticca company ranking by category, about travelstride, find your perfect trip, travel confidently.

Exotic Rome

Rome: Colosseum Tour by Night with Arena & Underground

Skip The Line Colosseum Underground Night Tour: VIP Experience

Skip The Line Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill Entry Ticket

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Exotic Rome - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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ICELAND ADVENTURE Golden Circle Tour   

March 31-April 8, 2022

$2395.00 per person

LEBANON PARADISE OF THE MIDDLE EAST

June 17-25, 2022

Highlights: Byblos – Jounieh – Harrisa Dier El Qamar – Beiteddine – Sidon  - Beirut - BcharreCedar Forest – Gibran Musem - Ksara Winery – Baalbek - Zahle

$3395.00 per person

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Take plenty of pictures for the folks back home, and file those photos in the folder named “trip of a lifetime.” Provoke envy with images of your over-water bungalow, or amazement with up-close images of a 2,000-pound whale shark. Create aha moments by revealing an exotic island landscape once featured in a Hollywood film, or boost your adventure cred with impressions of tribal warriors in full feathered regalia. Then, put down the camera to experience the colors, flavors and sounds of a region where thousand-year-old cultural traditions are still honored, and oceans and forests teem with exotic plant and animal life.

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15 Virtual College Campus Tours to Explore From Home

Tour Vanderbilt, Harvard, USC, and more!

Touring a college campus is an exciting rite of passage for many high school students as they explore their future stomping grounds. For a variety of reasons students and families might not be able to visit in person—but that doesn’t mean they have to miss out! Below, 15 of the many virtual college campus tours available online right now.

University of Southern California

Get a glimpse of USC’s beautiful campus and historic University Park with this video that showcases the school’s classic architecture, park-like grounds, museums, cafés, entertainment, and more.

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Harvard University

Take a virtual tour of the oldest university in the United States. And even visit places you can’t even see during an in-person campus tour! Explore classrooms, laboratories, residence halls, and more.

Location: Cambridge, MA

This self-guided virtual tour of Penn State University Park gives students an insider’s view of classrooms, residence halls, athletic facilities, and much more. You’ll even learn about the school’s majors and vibrant student community along the way.

Location: State College, PA

College of William & Mary

The second-oldest school in the country invites you to a virtual engagement where you’ll learn about William & Mary’s academic programs, unique student research opportunities, study abroad programs, and supportive campus community of passionate students and faculty.

Location: Williamsburg, VA

Texas A&M

Get an up-close view of Texas A&M, the state’s first public institution of higher learning. This research-intensive flagship university is committed to sending leaders out into the world prepared to take on the challenges of tomorrow.

Location: College Station, TX

University of Miami

The University of Miami offers one of the most extensive virtual college campus tours on this list. Choose from many different locations including the main campus, library, Campus Arena, residential college, and more!

Location: Coral Gables, FL

Howard University

Tour the historic main campus, situated upon a hilltop in Northwest Washington just a few blocks from the storied U Street and Howard Theatre. Howard University is also located just two miles from the U.S. Capitol building where many students have both interned and gone on to shape national and foreign policy.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Vanderbilt University

The 10 schools at Vanderbilt University reside on a parklike campus set in the urban heart of Nashville. To explore, move along the tour route and then click the “360,” “photo,” and “video” icons to see even more.

Location: Nashville, TN

University of Oxford

Visit the oldest university in the English-speaking world. This 360° virtual tour offers views of facilities such as the dining hall, library, and chapel. Also find an example of a student room, garden or quad, and the porters’ lodge.

Location: Oxford, England

Hampton University

You’ll feel just like you’re strolling through campus with this very extensive virtual college tour. Explore many areas of Hampton University including the dorm courtyard, student center, library, and even Armstrong Stadium.

Location: Hampton, VA

Northwestern University

Take Northwestern’s online guided tour which offers an interactive 360-degree view of the campus including academic and residential buildings, dining halls, athletic facilities, and more.

Location: Evanston, IL

Boise State University

Boise is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. And this virtual college tour provides a view of the university’s state-of-the-art research labs, living and dining spaces, and brand new high-tech home for visual arts.

Location: Boise, ID

University of Nebraska

Enjoy an aerial view of the entire University of Nebraska (courtesy of drone footage)! Next, check out residence hall living spaces, the library, recreation, and wellness centers. There’s so much to see on this virtual college campus tour!

Location: Lincoln, NE

Duke University

There are several ways to enjoy this extensive online tour of Duke University. You can jump to recommended spots, click on the map to visit specific buildings, or simply “walk around” and take in the sights. Plus, you can click the interactive elements at each stop for more details!

Location: Durham, NC

Meredith College

Begin your tour of Meredith by the flagpole that marks the entrance to the school’s campus. From there, select any location by using the links on the page to see everything from the residence hall and courtyard to the Gaddy-Hamrick Art Center and athletic complex.

Location: Raleigh, NC

Did we miss a virtual college campus tour? Share them with us, and we might just add it to this list!

Also, view 15 Fascinating Aquarium Virtual Field Trips .

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12 of the most exotic bike tours in the world

From volcanoes in Central America to Vancouver island, Cambodia, Myanmar and Madagascar, we pick the world's most incredible tours for you and your bike

Central America Ring of Fire, Nicaragua to Panama with Explore

Taking you from Nicaragua in the north, through Costa Rica to Panama's famous canal in the south, this bike tour promises smoking volcanoes, cloud forests and national parks overflowing with wildlife. You'll ride about 286km over nine days, mostly on tarmac roads, with plenty of time to relax in idyllic spots like the volcanic island of Ometepe in Lake Nicaragua, and the tropical islands of Bocas del Toro, before cycling across the continental divide and visiting Panama's famous canal.

Cost: From £1,695 without flights, including bike, hotels and food, guide and support vehicle

Explore.co.uk

Avanti Tours' Pacific Marine ride, Vancouver Island, 23-30 July

Making a circuit of the southern tip of British Columbia's Vancouver Island, Avanti Tours' eight-day ride explores this vast, wild playground off Canada's west coast by road bike. Each night delivers a new luxury spa hotel or resort to pamper yourself after each day's exertions.

With daily rides of between 35 and 65 km, vineyards to visit, seafood to taste and pods of whales to spot, this tour is not just about riding!

Cost: From £1,952, no flights, including food, accommodation and support.

Avanti.tours

Secrets of Sicily road tour with Headwater

With golden bays, olive groves and vine-studded hillsides, Sicily is quintessentially Mediterranean and has a climate and landscape that's perfect for leisurely exploring on two wheels. On this self-guided, seven night A to B road cycling tour, you'll ride through the island's unspoilt western coast, pedalling through sun-baked hamlets like mediaeval Moorish Scopello, past the windmills and salt pans of Nubia and the ancient Greek city of Segesta.

Each evening you'll check into an authentically Sicilian hotel with a pool to refresh after your day's cycling endeavours. With some steep climbs and descents this tour is certainly not pan-flat easy but the rewards are great - not least the extra satisfaction you'll get from your first chilled glass of Cataratto white wine each evening.

Cost: From £1,019 including seven nights hotel accommodation, breakfasts and evening meals, bike hire and luggage transfers

Headwater.com

Ho Chi Minh City to Angkor Wat with Global Adventure Challenges

There's something special about arriving at a famous destination by bike: it's somehow more real and certainly more rewarding when you've had to put in a physical effort. This is definitely the case with Cambodia's awe-inspiring temple complex. On this 12-day tour the Royal Temples are the final prize, after 8 days riding through the rice-paddies and waterways of the beautiful Mekong Delta from Ho Chi Minh City - into Cambodia, where the rural landscape is dotted with rustic houses, ruins, temples and French colonial buildings. You'll also be raising money for a good charitable cause of your choice.

Cost: From £1475 plus registration fee of £399 (self-funded), including flights, transport, all accommodation and food, a hire bike, plus full time on-route support and guiding

globaladventurechallenges.com

Faralong's Royal Roads of Myanmar

For a cycling immersion in a totally foreign culture, language and landscape, this has to be the ultimate bike tour. You'll ride from the former Royal Palace and markets of Mandalay City, to ornate teak monasteries, and the shining gold temples of Bagan. The touristic tour is broken by boat trips and short climbs - such as the 777 steps up to the Mount Popa shrine.

Cost: From £834, including lodging, breakfasts and lunches, bikes, guides and internal transfers

Faralong.com

Discover Adventure's Madagascar Discovery ride for cancer support

The fascinating island of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean has a range of microclimates, vastly different habitats and a huge number of endemic species that exist nowhere else on earth. This 11-day, 500km charity bike ride for Macmillan Cancer Support will help you discover some of them, as it takes you on a mix of roads and dirt tracks, through highland plains, lush forests, and shorelines. You'll pass tropical fruit plantations, stunning lakes, and welcoming villages, as well as a forest reserve where you should spot lemurs and more, before finally arriving at the lagoons and white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Cost: Registration fee £450, minimum sponsorship £3,950 includes flights, accommodation, transfers, support and guides, bicycle hire and almost all meals.

Discoveradventure.com

Freedomtreks' Danube Leisurely Passau to Vienna trip

This self-guided tour follows the great river through the historic heart of Europe, from the pretty river town of Passau in Germany, through Linz - the cultural capital of Austria - to the museums and cafes of Vienna. Traffic free, it's ideal for families and beginners. With just three hours riding a day, dramatic landscapes, castles, and lazy wine villages, plus your baggage taken ahead to each night's hotel, you should be able to linger all you like on this nine-day tour.

Cost: From £515, B&B, bag transfers. Bike hire £60

Freedomtreks.co.uk

Marmot Tours' Raid Pyrenean: coast-to-coast col-bagging road bike challenge

Created by a local cycling club in the 1950s 'glory years' of cycling, the Raid is no ordinary coast-to-coast ride. This epic road cycling challenge covers a 720km route with 11,000m of vertical ascent - and the same amount of glorious descent - from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean (or visa versa), across the 17 most famous mountain passes of the Pyrenees. The catch? You've got 100 hours to do it...

Marmot Tours supports some 200 riders a year on this epic ride over five days. If you want to take the clock-watching element out, there is the option of a non time limited tour along the route, called the Classic Cols of the Pyrenees. Certainly not without challenge, this six-day tour will take on legendary Tour de France climbs such as the Tourmalet, Portet d'Aspet and Peyresourde.

Cost: From £925 for the Raid, including full on-road support, accommodation and evening meals

Marmot-tours.co.uk

Sacred Rides' Peruvian singletrack

Every one of Sacred Rides' mountain bike tours to Peru looks a stunner, with the promise of amazing riding along the 10,000km of trails built by the ancient Incas, and fascinating local culture to discover every pedal stroke of the way. These range from the Inca Trail All-Mountain Tour for the super-skilled and ultra-fit, to the Inca Adventure Downhill tour with over 15,200 metres of vertical descent, and the Cusco to the Amazon Explorer tour for beginners. There's even an Inca Trail Bring-your-partner Adventure, where non-riding other halves will be able to explore ancient Inca and enjoy wildlife tours while you tackle the trails. There will also be plenty of together time, with easier rides and on-foot excursions.

Cost: From US$2,595 (£1,828) for the Bring-your-partner Adventure, including internal flights, transfers, hotel accommodation, meals and tours

Sacredrides.com

HotChillee Alpine Challenge, Annecy, France, 1-5 June

Billed as the provider of 'professional events for amateurs' HotChillee has set up the Alpine Challenge for the ultimate 'ride like a pro' experience over five days, with three days of incredible riding from your base by Lake Annecy. A timed Prologue will split the 150 or so riders into groups by ability, then you'll ride three mountain stages with famous cols such as the Colombière, Saisies and Forclaz, with motorbike outriders and rolling road closures ushering you through this stunning Alpine landscape.

Cost: From £1,550, includes support, airport transfers, food and accommodation

thealpinechallenge.com

Rather be Cycling's Lhasa to Kathmandu Himalayan tour

Riding over 1,000km, this epic tour for the fit and fearless will take you on a cycling journey between the famous capitals of Tibet and Nepal. What used to be the domain of tough, fatter-tyred mountain bikes, due to its once terrible roads, is now possible with cyclocross bikes and even road bikes with touring tyres - all the way from Lhasa to Kathmandu. You'll cross four 5,000m high passes, enjoy incredible descents, ride past ancient temples and monasteries and learn the real meaning of riding into thin air, as you tackle the highest, and most spectacular roads of your life. Pedalling right through the heart of the Himalayas on this 20-day epic, you'll even get a glimpse of Everest's North Face.

Cost: From £2,500 for all accommodation and meals, internal flights, baggage transfers, guiding and support

Ratherbecycling.co.uk

Exploring Kerala and Tropical India with Exodus

With vibrant, colourful culture, fascinating towns, beautiful beaches and superb food, a cycle through southern India can be an almost overwhelmingly rich experience. You'll start in the cool heights of the Western Ghats, with its sanctuaries bursting with wildlife, coast into rural villages where life has remained little-changed for centuries, and pedal on to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, with its elaborately decorated Hindu temples and sumptuous houseboats. The accommodation is mostly in hotels, except for three nights in lodges, one in a houseboat and another at a safari lodge.

Cost: From £1,400 excluding flights, including almost all food, all accommodation, hire bike, local transport, on-route support and guiding

Exodus.co.uk

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16 Exotic Islands That Are Worth Adding to Your Bucket List

There’s nothing quite like an island getaway, and the world’s oceans are filled with exotic islands just waiting to be explored.

But deciding which exotic islands to visit is a challenge, given the sheer number and sheer diversity of the islands out there.

While the classic view of an exotic island might be white sand and swaying palm trees of the Maldives or Fiji, there’s much more waiting to be discovered

You can explore the cold climes of Deception Island in Antarctica, or you can venture into the frozen wilderness of Greenland .

Sri Lanka is full of national parks and exotic wildlife while Penang is an island that’s made for foodies.

There’s an island out there for everyone though, and to inspire your next trip, here are our favorite exotic islands to visit! 

16 Best Exotic Islands

Table of Contents

1. Maldives

The Maldives is quite literally the definition of exotic islands, and this small archipelago in the Indian Ocean is often the first thing that comes to mind when you think tropical.

That’s because the Maldives is beautifully photogenic. There are white-sand beaches fringed by palm trees and the water is wonderfully crystal clear. 

You can also indulge and relax at some of the best hotels in the world, and you’ll find that many are situated on private islands or beaches, and the only way to reach them is by boat or seaplane. 

Alternatively, board a small dhoni cruise or liveaboard and explore a wide range of islands during your visit. This is the best option if you love to snorkel or scuba dive.

Our Top Recommended Tours:

• Maldives Island Hopping with G Adventures – 8 days
• Maldives Dhoni Explorer with G Adventures – 7 days

2. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a great island destination for anyone looking for an adventure because the island nation is full of culture, history, wildlife, and scenery.

Sri Lanka has something for every style of traveler, be it luxury or budget backpacker, and there’s so much to do in this compact country that you might keep returning time after time. 

You can go on elephant safaris in the national parks, whale watching along the coast, relax on white-sand beaches or trek into the jungles or highlands in search of ancient cities and temples. 

It is all these things that keep us coming back to Sri Lanka. We’ve spent more than a month traveling this country and constantly discover new things.

• Sri Lanka Encompassed with G Adventures – 14 days
• Discover Sri Lanka with National Geographic Journeys – 12 days
• Sri Lanka Express with G Adventures – 8 days

3. Deception Island

Deception Island might not be the traditional definition when you think of exotic islands, but it’s certainly a raw and untraveled place. 

In that sense, it’s exotic, because few people ever make it to the Antarctic to set foot upon the black sand beaches of Deception Island . 

This is a rugged and beautiful place, an island at the mercy of the extreme Antarctic weather. It is teeming with seals and penguins and is known for its dramatic harbor, formed from the caldera of a sunken volcano. 

Add all that to the fact that the beach is a hot water beach. Boiling hot water bubbles up through the sand causing a steamy release at the top as it contrasts with the cold air.

Deception Island is as exotic as islands come.

• Antarctica Classic with G Adventures – 11 days
• Quest for the Antarctic Circle with G Adventures – 14 days
• Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica with G Adventures – 22 days

4. Greenland

Another rugged and wild island to visit is Greenland, the largest island in the world.

Greenland is also at the mercy of extreme weather, as the island stretches deep into the Arctic Circle.

You’re best visiting in summer when the snow has melted and there’s a surprising abundance of wildlife. Brave the winter though and you can experience the northern lights and learn how to snowmobile or dog sled.

In Greenland, there are huge glaciers, endless stretches of wilderness and countless opportunities for adventure.

We spent 3 weeks exploring Greenland, visiting places like Ilulissat , Kangerlussuaq , Sisimiut , and Nuuk . We also walked the 100 mile Arctic Circle Trail. 

5. Busuanga, Philippines 

The Philippines is an archipelago that’s composed of thousands of exotic islands, but one of the most outstanding is Busuanga .

Located north of Palawan and south of Manila , Busuanga is the jumping-off point for island hopping through the Calamianes Islands. 

Here you can find Coron , one of the most popular destinations in the Philippines, where there are freshwater lakes, tall limestone karst rocks, and endless snorkeling and diving opportunities in both wrecks and reefs.

Busuanga is an island that is largely undiscovered as most travelers do not venture beyond the popular Coron Town.

This is hands down one of our favorite places in the world. We’ve been multiple times since we first discovered this area in 2014. 

• Philippines West Tour – 10 days
• Philippines Island Hopper – 19 days
• Palawan Island Hopper – 10 days

Cuba is one of the most exotic islands in the Caribbean because the large island nation is brimming with diversity.

In Havana, one of the oldest cities in the Americas, you can stroll through ramshackle streets as you search out the rich colonial history. 

In the countryside of Vinales , you can hike and marvel at the beautiful scenery, and see where guerillas such as Che Guevara and Fidel Castro once waged war against the government.

Along the coast, you can enjoy classic Caribbean beach resorts at Varadero or you can enjoy some off the beaten track scuba diving in the Bay of Pigs.

Trinidad , a charming Spanish colonial city, is one of those gems that will leave you yearning for a return visit from the moment you arrive. It’s also, arguably, our favorite place to visit in Cuba.  

• Cuba Libre with G Adventures – 6 days
• Cuba Explorer with G Adventures – 9 days
• Cuba Colonial with G Adventures -15 days

7. Easter Island

Easter Island is just about as exotic as it gets, especially if it’s intrigue and isolation that draws you in.

First of all, Easter Island is incredibly remote , being found in the Pacific Ocean somewhere between Chile and New Zealand. 

But most of all, this is a mysterious place, where the fascinating Easter Island Moai statues stand tall.

These are statues that have confused and baffled scholars for decades, and they truly add to the mystique of this rugged and raw destination.

Moai aside, this island is rich in natural beauty and pacific islander culture. It’s a journey for the senses and we’d recommend you plan at least a week for a visit.

• Easter Island Independent Adventure with G Adventures – 4 days
• Easter Island Tour – 4 days

8. Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Located off the coast of New Guinea, the Raja Ampat islands are one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world. 

This collection of well over 1000 small islands is remote, and it’s still being discovered by tourists and travelers. 

Marine life thrives in the waters here, and while the islands and beaches are themselves paradisiacal, it’s what’s beneath the waves that really draws people in. 

This area is remote and expensive by typical Southeast Asia standards, but totally worth the money and effort to visit.

9. Islands of Fiji

Fiji is a classic tropical getaway, and few other places in the world can be described as exotic islands, in the same easy manner that Fiji and its many islands can.

You can snorkel pristine coral reefs and scuba dive in one of the most biodiverse parts of the Pacific.

Chase waterfalls and uncover the wildlife within Fiji’s rainforest , or simply sit back, relax and unwind in the sunshine on a white sand beach.

We spent a month traveling throughout Fiji and can personally attest that it is a place of rich culture and insane natural beauty.

Places like Vanua Levu , Taveuni, Qamea, Viti Levu , Pacific Harbour , the Mamanuca Islands , and the Yasawa Islands should not be missed.

• Wanderlands Fiji – 8 days
• Yasawa Islands Sea Kayaking Fiji – 8 days

The enormous island of Borneo is one of the most exotic islands in the world because this is a destination teeming with wildlife and diversity .

Borneo is divided between Malaysia , Brunei, and Indonesia, and there are countless adventures awaiting you. 

Marvel at the golden mosque and floating villages in Brunei, scale the peak of Mount Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Southeast Asia in Malaysia, or get off the beaten track and uncover Kalimantan, a rarely visited part of Indonesia. 

It’s also home to some of the best scuba diving in the world, the famed Sipadan . It’s a chance to dive a massive underwater volcano with enticing wall drops, huge schools of fish, loads of turtles and more sharks than you can imagine.

• Best of Borneo with National Geographic Journeys – 12 days
• Experience Borneo with G Adventures – 14 days
• Western Borneo Experience with G Adventures – 8 days

11. Dominica

Located in the Caribbean , Dominica is one of the best islands to visit if you are looking for outdoor activities. 

This is a rugged, volcanic island, and you can hike through dense forest to reach bubbling hot springs or the crater of the tall volcano that stands over 1500 meters tall. 

Unlike most islands in the Caribbean, you will not find white sand beaches in Dominica . This is the island of nature and rocky, black beaches paired with lush, dense rainforest are the flagship of this island.

You can adventure all day, then sit back and enjoy the comforts of the resorts in the evening, as you enjoy raw sunsets over the Caribbean.

12. Zanzibar, Tanzania 

Located off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is one of the most exotic islands to visit in Africa and the Indian Ocean.

Zanzibar is not just an island that’s known for its white-sand beaches and crystal clear water – although there are plenty of both to enjoy – it’s an island that’s also renowned for its culture and history. 

You can uncover the best of the island’s rich heritage and colonial history – be it African, Portuguese, Omani or British – in Stone Town, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed capital. 

• Zanzibar Independent Adventure with G Adventures – 5 days
• Classic Serengeti & Zanzibar with G Adventures – 13 days
• Kilimanjaro & Zanzibar Adventures with G Adventures – 12 days

13. Caye Caulker, Belize 

Off the coast of mainland Belize, you can find Caye Caulker , one of the most exotic islands in Central America. 

Surrounded by clear water that’s perfect for snorkeling and diving, Caye Caulker is a perfect island retreat. 

There’s only one village on the entire island, and the rest of Caye Caulker is just sand and mangroves. 

You can relax and unwind, and enjoy the famously slow pace of life that Caye Caulker and Belize are so famous for. Things happen slowly on Caye Caulker but that’s just fine if you’re on vacation. 

• Explore Belize with National Geographic Journeys – 9 days
• Classic Belize & Tikal with G Adventures – 9 days

14. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador 

The Galápagos Islands are one of the most famed destinations on the planet because this is the place that helped Darwin to refine his theories of evolution and natural selection in the 19th century. 

The Galápagos Islands can be reached from Ecuador, and visiting this unique part of the world is an unbelievable experience. 

The Galápagos Islands are remote and isolated, being found several hundred miles away from the South American coastline.

That isolation is what led to the islands becoming so naturally distinct, and today, as it was in Darwin’s day, the Galápagos is a haven for wildlife and birds.

• Galapagos Express Adventure: Wilderness & Wildlife with G Adventures – 7 days
• Galapagos Island Hopping with G Adventures – 9 days
• Galapagos Adventure: Snorkeling & Sea Lions with G Adventures – 9 days

15. Samos, Greece

In Greece, one of the most exotic islands to visit is the beautiful island of Samos. 

This is the Aegean at its best and you’ll find a rugged coastline and charming Greek villages and towns to explore. 

As well as being beautiful though, Samos is also a place of history. This is where the iconic Ancient Greek mathematician Pythagoras came from, as did many more ancient philosophers and writers too.

There are ruins across the island, from historic castles to ancient aqueducts, and it’s a fantastic place to delve into.

Another great option to experience the most exotic islands in Greece is on a Greek Island Hopping tour. Discover the ancient history with spectacular beaches as you sail around the Greek archipelago .

• Saling Greece – Santorini to Mykonos with G Adventures – 8 days
• Greece: Ancient ruins & iconic islands with National Geographic – 12 days
• Sailing Greece – Mykonos to Athens with G Adventures – 8 days

16. Penang, Malaysia 

For food lovers, one of the most exotic islands in the world could easily be Penang.

Found on the northwest coast of Malaysia, Penang has some great beaches and a beautiful national park, but most travelers visit to dig deep into the culinary scene. 

Georgetown is renowned for the quality of its food, and you can chow down on a range of local dishes, be they Malay, Chinese or Indian.

Whenever we think of our time spent in Penang, our mouths water at the thought of the street food.

• Singapore to Bangkok Journey with National Geographic Journeys – 15 days
• Southeast Asia: Hilltribes & Street food with G Adventures – 21 days

You might also like:

• 17 Cheap Places to Travel Around the World
• Phi Phi Islands in Thailand: Everything You Need to Know  
• Our Guide to 11 Caribbean Islands
• 17 Awesome Things to Do in Islamorada
• 13 MUST NOT Miss Things to Do in Key West
• 18 Amazing Things to Do in Key Largo
• 9 Cool Things to do in St Thomas USVI
• 21 Spectacular Things to do in Mallorca, Spain

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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Exotic spiders flourishing in Britain as new jumping species found in Cornwall

Global warming and international trade offering increasingly hospitable environment

Some are small and jumpy; others are large and intimidating – if you’re a humble housefly. Exotic spiders are flourishing in Britain as international trade offers ample opportunities for spider travel and global heating provides an increasingly hospitable climate.

A jumping spider new to science has been identified living on the Penryn campus in Cornwall, home to the University of Exeter and Falmouth University. The nearest known relative of the 3-4mm-long Anasaitis milesae is found in the Caribbean, making it highly likely that this tiny species – alongside 17 other non-native jumping spider species – found its way to Britain from distant climes.

Much larger and more noticeable new arrivals include Zoropsis spinimana , popularly known as the false wolf spider, a Mediterranean species that is thriving in houses across London, and the striking green-fanged tube web spider ( Segestria florentina ), which first got a foothold in Bristol and is now found across southern Britain.

About 50 non-native spiders have been recorded in Britain among 3,500 non-native established species, most of which have been inadvertently introduced by the global movement of goods and people. Only about 10-15% of non-native species are considered to be “invasive” – such as grey squirrels, Japanese knotweed and the Asian or yellow-legged hornet – causing a negative environmental or human impact.

Helen Smith, a conservation officer for the British Arachnological Society , said: “Britain’s spider fauna, along with the rest of our wildlife, is changing more rapidly than ever before. As new, exotic species spread, particularly beyond urban areas, the chances of them impacting on less common native species increase.

“As well as competing for prey and for living spaces, these spiders may bring with them new parasites and diseases, an issue well known from invasive grey squirrels and crayfish but very poorly studied in spiders. Around 15% of our native spider species are already threatened with extinction as a result of habitat loss and climate change – in the future, non-native species could well add to the risks they face.”

The new species of jumping spider was discovered by Tylan Berry, Devon and Cornwall area organiser for the British Arachnological Society, during a “bioblitz”, or biological census, on the Penryn campus. The unusual species was confirmed as new to science and named by Dmitri Logunov, a jumping spider expert, of the Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

“It is amazing that something can be hiding in plain sight,” said Berry. “It’s established on the campus and easy to find in good numbers, living and breeding, and it’s also been found in another ornamental garden 30 miles away.

“It’s a pretty little thing, and looks like a bit of old 1970s carpet – brown and white and patterned.”

Cornwall and Devon are hotspots for new spiders, thanks to their ports and mild climate, with the absence of frost in some areas allowing exotic species to survive the British winter.

Berry has identified a large population of another non-native spider, the grey house spider ( Badumna longinqua ) in Plymouth.

This large spider hails from New South Wales, Australia, and is considered one of the most invasive spider species in some countries where it has been accidentally introduced, including Japan, the US and Brazil .

The fast-spreading species is not yet well-established on continental Europe but has rapidly moved through Britain since first being spotted in 2021. Since being found in Washington, north-east England, it’s been recorded in south Wales, Nottinghamshire, and Camborne and Newquay in Cornwall. Many early sightings were close to ports or garden centres, suggesting they arrived on imported plants.

“It’s incredibly well-established in Plymouth,” said Berry. “I was really taken aback. It’s spread over a 6km/sq area and in some places is the dominant species.”

The spider lives in urban areas in large aggregations, weaving webs that look similar to some native spiders on wooden fences and metal sign-posts, including bus stops.

In places, Berry found only this species and few native spiders, and fears it may have supplanted native lace web spiders and missing sector orb weaver spiders.

“It’s definitely got potential for causing a shift in the ecosystem,” said Berry. “But rather than predating on native spiders, I think they might just be competition for space.”

Exotic spiders excite tabloid newspaper editors and alarm arachnophobes, and the false wolf spider and the green-fanged tube web spider have the potential to cause a stir because of their size and their ability, in theory, to pierce human skin with their (briefly painful but harmless) nips.

In reality, despite media attention, the false wolf spider has caused little alarm and the green-fanged tube web spider keeps to itself, living in holes in walls and only darting out at night to seize its prey.

Both species are on the move, with the false wolf spider having spread as far west as Somerset and as far north as Newcastle since it was first photographed in Britain in 2008 – given a lift in some cases not only on global shipping containers but inside campervans of holidaymakers returning from continental Europe.

Spider experts have a message: don’t panic. “Look out for these things, record them if you can, but be interested in them as well,” said Berry. “The more you learn, the more you understand about a species, and that’s a good way of getting rid of any fears or misinformation.

“These arrivals are just going to happen. There’s very little we can do to stop them. Tied in to the warming of the climate, different species can get a hold in particularly areas and change ecosystems quite quickly.”

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• April 23, 2024

Many programs and departments at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa organize tours and site visits for elementary and secondary students to welcome and wow them about what their hometown flagship campus has to offer. The Department of Information and Computer Sciences ( ICS ) has increased its efforts to showcase its STEM opportunities to Hawaiʻi keiki, with a particular focus on those who may not otherwise have access to higher education.

In April, ICS students and faculty welcomed haumāna (students) from Farrington High School’s computer science club to the Mānoa campus. Farrington is a Title I school meaning that the campus provides additional academic support and learning opportunities for their students due to its high percentage of socioeconomically disadvantaged children. Organizers of the visit said many of the students are first generation, and they wanted to show them that college is an option for everyone.

“At most field trips I have had at UH , I have had students who decide to major in computer science,” said Farrington High School club advisor Joshua Dimaya. “Some students, who had chosen not to go into college education, now are excited and motivated to go to school and start to work with our college counselor to apply for schools. Having presentations on TIDES and other support systems at UH Mānoa also helps our students know that there are places to help them financially and emotionally when going to school, easing their decisions to go to UH Mānoa.”

More than 1s and 0s

During the visit, the Farrington students met with Game Dev, an ICS student organization for gaming and game development. They also got a chance to visit Campus Center, Warrior Recreation Center, IT Center and the Office of Student Equity, Excellence and Diversity ( SEED ).

Jaira Pader, a computer science student and Farrington alumna, joined the tour as one of the leaders. Dimaya was Pader’s computer science teacher during her senior year.

“His class, by far, made a huge impact on my decision to major in computer science after learning about the potential careers I could get into and because of his passionate teaching,” Pader said. “Although I couldn’t get the same experience because of post-COVID regulations, I’m happy that he shows his students the opportunities they could have at Mānoa as computer scientists. It was great talking to a former teacher of mine and seeing the fascination these high schoolers have on the field.”

Over the past several months, ICS also welcomed Liholiho Elementary , ʻAiea High, Hanalani Schools and Maryknoll School.

The ICS advising team, led by Kenny Kaʻaiakamanu -Quibilan and Marilou Matsuura, welcomes school teachers and staff with an interest in taking their students on a tour of ICS to contact: [email protected] .

“On behalf of the ICS advising team, we are excited to have hosted several Hawaiʻi K–12 schools on campus!” Kaʻaiakamanu -Quibilan said. “It is our mission to inspire local talent and recruit underrepresented populations into the ICS field. More importantly, we hope these outreach events show students that college is possible and that there are people here to support them in their educational endeavors. We also want to say a mahalo nui loa to our campus student services like Warrior Recreation Center, SEED , TRIO Mānoa, TIDES and iLab for collaborating with us.”

The Department of Information and Computer Sciences is housed in UH Mānoa’s College of Natural Sciences .

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Kyle Rittenhouse, deadly shooter, college speaker? A campus gun-rights tour sparks outrage

Kyle Rittenhouse is not a typical college campus speaker.

In 2020, at the age of 17, he took an AR-15-style rifle to a Black Lives Matter demonstration and fired it, killing two people and injuring a third. Rittenhouse said he pulled the trigger in self-defense and was acquitted of wrongdoing .

He has since penned a book, “Acquitted,” and has set out on a series of college speaking events dubbed the " Rittenhouse Recap ." He is slated to appear Thursday at Clemson University in South Carolina.

Rittenhouse is selling books, and ostensibly promoting the right to bear arms on campus, but he’s also trying to persuade young people to join the conservative movement. The key group behind the appearances, Turning Point USA, is led by the self-described “youth director” of President Donald Trump’s first campaign and a key ally rallying votes for Trump this year.

The group told USA TODAY that it isn’t a nationally organized tour – that its chapters independently requested Rittenhouse. Student chapter leaders told USA TODAY that Rittenhouse is an important conversation starter. “I think sometimes you have to be kind of polarizing to pull a crowd," said Brady Seymour, president of Turning Point USA's chapter at Kent State University in Ohio.

The provocative choice of backing the Rittenhouse tour is par for the course for Turning Point and its local affiliates, which have hosted controversial figures like Nick Fuentes, a white nationalist and Holocaust denier . But it has stirred up devastating pain and disdain in a man he almost killed.

"He has used every moment to gloat and to make light of taking life," Paul Prediger said, speaking publicly for the first time about what happened in protest of a Rittenhouse speech last week at Kent State. "As if that were not enough, Kyle has embraced and been embraced by those who peddle hateful rhetoric, who believe in nationalism that excludes those who do not look like or think like them, and who have sought to amplify a troubling desire for violence against supposed political, cultural, and religious enemies."

Rittenhouse's message on his campus tour – that students should be allowed to take up arms, including to fend off "these Hamas, Palestinian terrorists" if they invade dormitories – has sparked protests and raised questions about free speech and just how far it should be allowed to go. A similar question helped lead to the resignations of the presidents of the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard University , who stepped down amid fierce criticism for equivocating when asked if calls for the genocide of Jews would be allowed on campus.

Rittenhouse, in a statement provided by spokesperson Jillian Anderson, said his campus appearances are not part of an official tour or book-selling venture, and he is reminding students of their rights. "Every American has a constitutional right to bear arms," he said, "and it should not be infringed by a college campus."

Experts say context matters. Tom Ginsburg, a law professor at the University of Chicago and faculty director of the forum on free inquiry and expression, told USA TODAY that federal regulations require colleges and universities to ensure their learning environment is not hostile. Within that framework, some incendiary language could be permitted in a general public space but prohibited if directed at an individual or group.

"That's a key distinction," he said. "Is it said in general, as part of a general demonstration, or is it shouted at a particular group of people who might then reasonably perceive it as being a threat of some kind? And if it's the latter, then it could be punished."

Kyle Rittenhouse says students should carry guns on campus

On the evening of Aug. 25, 2020 , Rittenhouse brought a rifle to the site of intense protests in Kenosha, Wisconsin, sparked by the police shooting of Jacob Blake, a 29-year-old Black man. Amid a scuffle with protesters, Rittenhouse fatally shot Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and wounded Prediger.

In a trial that drew national attention in 2021, Rittenhouse said he shot the men in self-defense after Rosenbaum threatened his life and Prediger pointed a gun at him. Prediger said he thought Rittenhouse was an active shooter. Critics said Rittenhouse had no right to fire his weapon and was illegally acting as a vigilante militia. A jury acquitted him of all five charges he faced, including intentional homicide.

Rittenhouse soon took on celebrity status in right-wing circles where the right to bear arms and use them to defend life and property is sacrosanct. The weekend after his trial, he flew to Florida to visit Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort and to appear on Fox News for an interview with conservative host Tucker Carlson.

At Kent State, Rittenhouse implored students to fight to be allowed to carry guns at school.

"We have these blue boxes that are on the campus – we've all seen them, you push a button, it calls the police, and you get connected to a dispatcher," he said. "How long does it take a cop to show up, though? When somebody is trying to kidnap you or somebody is threatening your life, is that the quickest option to be able to protect yourself?"

He encouraged students to join conservative groups like Turning Point USA and said elected officials don't care about them.

"What makes me really scared, and I get really upset that people, especially young campus students, aren't allowed to carry firearms, just because I'm scared that what happens if these Hamas, Palestinian terrorists come to the U.S. and try to attack us?" Rittenhouse said. "Are we supposed to be left defenseless? Are you supposed to be left defenseless because you're not allowed to have a gun in your dormitory?"

After Prediger – formerly known as Gaige Grosskreutz – criticized his speaking tour, Rittenhouse posted a video clip on X, formerly Twitter. It showed Prediger admitting he pointed a gun in Rittenhouse's direction before being shot. Rittenhouse did not include text in the post.

Students accuse Turning Point of 'hateful actions'

In the days leading up to his arrival at Kent State, demonstrators staged a walkout, organized a vigil, and spray painted "Welcome, killer" on a free-speech landmark. A Change.org petition urging the university and Turning Point USA to cancel Rittenhouse's visit gathered more than 3,700 signatures. The event spurred Prediger to speak out. Hundreds showed up to protest.

"I stand with the students of Kent State University who have had enough," Prediger said.

Students said it was particularly insensitive for the campus to host Rittenhouse and his message about guns on campus given the school's history. On May 4, 1970, four students were gunned down at Kent State when the Ohio National Guard fired into a crowd gathered to protest the invasion of Cambodia during the Vietnam War.

Aimée Flores, a representative from the university's Spanish and Latine Student Association, said the organization encouraged students "to learn more about Turning Point USA.... their hateful actions on campus and throughout this whole year, why we don't agree with their actions."

Seymour, the school's Turning Point chapter president, said the event was about "creating conversation." It had no relation to the 1970 killing of protestors, he said.

"In his speech, he talked mostly about having the right to carry on campus, considering students aren't allowed to at Kent State," Seymour said.

"These two stories are completely different and 50 years apart," he said.

Protests at every campus on 'Rittenhouse Recap' tour

Other “Rittenhouse Recap” appearances prompted vocal opposition and protest.

At Western Kentucky University , protesters held a sit-in and march last month. His appearance at East Tennessee State University in February also sparked demonstrations – local press reports show one protester wielding a sign accusing Turning Point of empowering "stochastic terrorism" – the incitement of violence through public demonization of a person or group.

In the days leading up to Rittenhouse's appearance at The University of Memphis in March, the school fielded a barrage of complaints from students, faculty, and community members. Protesters held signs with messages like, “Put Rittenhouse behind bars, not a podium.” Rittenhouse abruptly left the stage after about 30 minutes as protesters shouted him down.

Universities said allowing the events – and the protests – upholds key tenets of American democracy and academic tradition: Free speech and freedom of assembly. Turning Point USA’s chapter at The University of Memphis is a registered student organization, the school said.

"We cannot ban speech because it would go against a core value and because of well-established laws governing free speech on public university campuses,” Kent State said in a statement provided to USA TODAY. “Upholding the First Amendment rights of free speech and peaceful assembly for all, the university has a long history of allowing peaceful dialogue from all points of view, including those whom some may feel are offering different and/or sometimes controversial opinions."

Turning Point has history of booking controversial speakers

Turning Point USA has a track record of booking controversial and provocative figures, placing it at the center of debates over First Amendment rights on college campuses, where it says it has grown to more than 800 chapters since its founding in 2012.

In late 2016 and early 2017, the group was behind a nationwide campus speaking tour by Milo Yiannopoulos – a former Breitbart writer banned from Twitter for harassment and dropped from the agenda at a Conservative Political Action Conference after videos surfaced of him defending sexual relationships between 13-year-old boys and grown men. Yiannopoulos said he was joking and may have used "imprecise language."

In 2019, Turning Point’s Iowa State University chapter claimed partial responsibility for extending a speaking invitation to Fuentes, a white nationalist who has said he wants a "total Aryan victory" and self-identified as a "sexist man," according to the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Last year, representatives of the group confronted, criticized and assaulted an LGBTQ+ instructor at Arizona State University in Tempe.

Turning Point has taken action against members for promoting hate speech. In 2019, the group expelled a member at the University of Nevada Las Vegas after a video surfaced of the student shouting "white power" and using a white supremacist hand sign.

Andrew Kolvet, a spokesperson for Turning Point USA, said the Fuentes event was not sanctioned, and a local chapter official was tricked into arranging the appearance. He said that Turning Points has repeatedly denounced white nationalism . Kolvet said that in general, students should be able to hear from controversial speakers. "We do our best to make sure that there's going to be enriching discussion, that the speaker is going to be, I would say, uplifting, inspiring, productive."

He said Turning Point chapters chose Rittenhouse as a speaker. "There just happened to be schools that asked for Kyle because he came out with a book and he made himself available, essentially."

Turning Point touts itself as a key player in conservative politics , as does its founder and president, Charlie Kirk , who told conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh 's show in 2019 that he “traveled the country for about 70 days straight carrying Donald Trump Jr.’s bags and getting his Diet Cokes.” In addition to becoming Trump Jr.'s "body man," he took on the role of "youth director of the campaign," Kirk said. Speaking at the Republican National Convention in 2020, he called President Trump the "bodyguard of Western civilization."

Kirk also speaks on college campuses, where his fiery rhetoric has sparked controversy. At a speech last fall at Missouri State University , he said all immigration to the U.S. should be halted, called global warming an "academic distraction," and speculated about how many Hamas sleeper cells might be active in the U.S.

Expert says universities grappling with non-academic provocateurs

Ginsburg stressed that colleges and universities must allow free speech. "It’s pretty clear that their obligation is to make sure that event goes forward and to make sure it's not disrupted," he said. "At the same time, peaceful protest also has a long tradition on campus."  

Ginsburg said an added dimension to their challenges is the more recent phenomenon of campus speakers who intentionally draw negative attention.

"What we're now seeing is that people are sometimes getting invited to campus who aren't necessarily academics. They're not articulating a truly academic point of view," Ginsburg said. "In some cases, we have provocateurs, including some people who actually are seeking to be canceled, seeking to be protested."

He said people like Rittenhouse often capitalize on controversy. "He's certainly part of a media ecosystem in which you do have some of those kind of characters where, if you can get canceled, it ups your follower rate and you can portray yourself as a victim," he said.

To the Turning Point leader at Kent State, it's a tactic the group uses to advance conversation.

"That's the sad reality of how people are," Seymour said. "You kind of have to stir up drama or be a polarizing character for people to end up paying attention to you."

Cybele Mayes-Osterman is a breaking news reporter for USA Today. Reach her by email at [email protected]. Follow her on X @CybeleMO.

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Texas MS 150 Bike Tour Returns To Aggieland

Texas A&M University will once again serve as the finish line for thousands of cyclists riding in the Texas MS 150 when the 40th annual charity bike tour concludes Sunday on Houston Street between Kyle Field and Aggie Park.

The two-day event benefiting people with multiple sclerosis — a condition that damages the body’s nervous system by eroding the protective coating of nerves — will run April 27-28, with a variety of routes beginning in Houston and Austin before converging in La Grange and again in College Station. Texas A&M Transportation Services is advising drivers to anticipate multiple road closures and potential delays beginning early Sunday as the riders make their way through campus.

A section of Lamar Street starting at the bell tower will be closed to drivers throughout the day, while Houston Street will remain closed from George Bush Drive to Joe Routt Boulevard. Riders will make their way down Olsen Boulevard and Old Main Drive before passing the Memorial Student Center and Kyle Field on their way to the finish line. A map of the route through campus, as well as accompanying road closure and parking information, can be found at transport.tamu.edu/ms150 .

Visitors planning to watch the participants finish are invited to park in one of the three nearby garages: Gene Stallings Boulevard Garage and University Center Garage will both charge a flat $10 entry fee, while West Campus Garage charges an hourly visitor rate. Additional parking information is available on Transportation Services’ event parking page .

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Bike MS, which encompasses the Texas MS 150 and a variety of other charity rides across the country, traces its roots to 1980, when the first MS 150 was held in Minnesota. Today, it is the largest fundraising cycling series in the world. Participants in this year’s Texas MS 150 have already raised nearly $7 million to fight multiple sclerosis, with an overall fundraising goal of $9.425 million. More information about the Texas MS 150 and Bike MS is available at events.nationalmssociety.org .

Media contact: Tad Fifer, Texas A&M Transportation Services, [email protected]

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2024 Zurich Classic odds, field: Surprising PGA picks, predictions by model that's nailed 11 majors

Sportsline's proven model simulated the zurich classic of new orleans 2024 10,000 times and revealed its pga golf picks.

Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay look to reclaim some team magic when they pair back up for the 2024 Zurich Classic. The PGA Tour's yearly team event tees off Thursday at TPC Louisiana in New Orleans, and 80 two-man teams will be in attendance for tee off on Thursday. Schauffele and Cantlay were the winning duo back in 2022 and they are the 5-1 favorites on the 2024 Zurich Classic odds board. Should you back this pair of California natives with your 2024 Zurich Classic picks? Or should you back Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry at 8-1 odds?

Will Zalatoris and Sahith Theegala are listed at 11-1 in the lastest 2024 Zurich Classic odds, and Collin Morkiawa and Kurt Kitayama follow at 16-1. Defending Zurich Classic champions Nick Hardy and David Riley are 80-1 longshots to have repeat success. Before making any 2024 Zurich Classic picks, be sure t o see the golf predictions and projected leaderboard from the proven computer model at SportsLine .

Our proprietary model, built by DFS pro Mike McClure, has been red-hot since the PGA Tour resumed in June of 2020. In fact, the model is up more than $9,000 on its best bets since the restart, nailing tournament after tournament.

McClure's model correctly predicted Scottie Scheffler would finish on top of the leaderboard at the 2024 Masters, the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the Players Championship, and the RBC Heritage this season. McClure also included Hideki Matsuyama in his best bets to win the 2024 Genesis Invitational. That bet hit at +9000, and for the entire tournament, McClure's best bets returned nearly $1,000.

The model also predicted Jon Rahm would be victorious at the 2023 Sentry Tournament of Champions and The American Express. At the 2023 Masters, the model was all over Rahm's second career major victory heading into the weekend. Rahm was two strokes off the lead heading into the third round, but the model still projected him as the winner. It was the second straight Masters win for the model, which also nailed Scheffler winning in 2022.

In addition, McClure's best bets included Nick Taylor (70-1) winning the 2023 RBC Canadian Open, Jason Day (17-1) winning outright at the 2023 AT&T Byron Nelson, and Rickie Fowler (14-1) finishing on top of the leaderboard at the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic.

This same model has also nailed a whopping 11 majors entering the weekend and hit the Masters three straight years. Anyone who has followed it has seen massive returns.

Now that the Zurich Classic 2024 field is finalized, SportsLine simulated the tournament 10,000 times, and the results were surprising. Head to SportsLine now to see the projected leaderboard .

Top 2024 Zurich Classic predictions 

One major surprise the model is calling for at the Zurich Classic 2024: McIlroy and Lowry, who've combined for 26 wins on the PGA Tour, barely crack the top five. McIlroy is set to play in his fourth consecutive event when he tees off at TPC Louisiana. He's failed to crack the top-10 in seven of his eight starts on the PGA Tour this season, while Lowry has finished T-19 or worse in six of his past eight events. 

Both players have struggled mightily on the green this season. McIlroy enters the 2024 Zurich Classic ranked 78th in strokes gained: putting (0.119) and 72nd in putting average (1.758), a big reason why he ranks 98th in scoring average (70.44). Lowry, meanwhile, ranks 99th in strokes gained: putting (-0.012) and 143rd in putts per round (29.38), which doesn't bode well for their chances to finish on top of the leaderboard this week. 

Another surprise: Rasmus Højgaard and Nicolai Højgaard, 35-1 longshots, make a strong run at the title. The twin brothers have a much better chance to win it all than their odds imply, so they're a target for anyone looking for a huge payday.

The Danish twosome has been making headlines abroad for years now, becoming the first brothers to ever win events in consecutive weeks on the European Tour back in 2021. They are now making noise on the PGA Tour as Nicolai finished second at the Farmers Insurance Open back in January and finished T16 in his first ever Masters appearance earlier this month. Nicolai also played this event last year, so his experience makes the duo an under-the-radar competitor at the 2024 Zurich Classic.  See who else to pick here . 

How to make 2024 Zurich Classic picks

The model is also targeting three other teams with odds of 35-1 or longer to make a strong run at the title. Anyone who backs these longshots could hit it big. You can only see the model's picks here .

Who will win the 2024 Zurich Classic, and which longshots will stun the golfing world? Check out the Zurich Classic 2024 odds below and then visit SportsLine to see the projected Zurich Classic leaderboard , all from the model that's nailed 11 golf majors, including the last three Masters.

2024 Zurich Classic odds, field

Get full 2024 Zurich Classic picks, best bets, and predictions here .

Patrick Cantlay / Xander Schauffele +500 Rory McIlroy / Shane Lowry +800 Will Zalatoris / Sahith Theegala +1100 Collin Morikawa / Kurt Kitayama +1600 Tom Hoge / Maverick McNealy +2500 Matt Fitzpatrick / Alex Fitzpatrick +2500 Taylor Pendrith / Corey Conners +3500 Rasmus Højgaard / Nicolai Højgaard +3500 Taylor Montgomery / Ben Griffin +4000 Sepp Straka / Brice Garnett +4000 Nick Taylor / Adam Hadwin +4000 Keith Mitchell / Joel Dahmen +4000 Brice Garnett / Sepp Straka +4000 Thomas Detry / Robert MacIntyre +4500 Doug Ghim / Chan Kim +4500 Davis Thompson / Andrew Novak +4500 Daniel Berger / Victor Perez +4500 Kevin Yu / C.T. Pan +5000 Billy Horschel / Tyson Alexander +5000 Beau Hossler / Sam Ryder +5000 Andrew Putnam / Joe Highsmith +5000 Aaron Rai / David Lipsky +5000 Thorbjorn Olesen / Matt Wallace +6500 Taylor Moore / Matt NeSmith +6500 K.H. Lee / Michael Kim +6500 Greyson Sigg / Chesson Hadley +6500 Gary Woodland / Lee Hodges +6500 Garrick Higgo / Ryan Fox +6500 Austin Eckroat / Chris Gotterup +6500 Steve Stricker / Matt Kuchar +8000 Nate Lashley / Rafael Campos +8000 Luke List / Henrik Norlander +8000 Kevin Streelman / Martin Laird +8000 Dylan Wu / Justin Lower +8000 Davis Riley / Nick Hardy +8000 Chandler Phillips / Jacob Bridgeman +8000 Carson Young / Ben Martin +8000 Ben Silverman / Kevin Dougherty +8000 Zach Johnson / Ryan Palmer +10000 Vincent Norrman / Jorge Campillo +10000 Nico Echavarria / Max Greyserman +10000 Alex Smalley / Matti Schmid +10000 Thriston Lawrence / Aldrich Potgieter +13000 Ryan Brehm / Mark Hubbard +13000 Justin Suh / Rico Hoey +13000 Jhonattan Vegas / Bronson Burgoon +13000 J.J. Spaun / Hayden Buckley +13000 Erik Barnes / Harrison Endycott +13000 Chad Ramey / Martin Trainer +13000 Carl Yuan / Zecheng Dou +13000 Sam Stevens / Paul Barjon +15000 Peter Malnati / Russell Knox +15000

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Mexico Vacation Packages & Tours at -45%

Our recommendation to visit mexico.

From $2,009

Per night : $155

Mexico in 10 days +

Colonial charms & central highlands.

• map-pin-check-icon Guadalajara
• map-pin-check-icon Guanajuato
• map-pin-check-icon Mexico City
• map-pin-check-icon Morelia
• Accommodation
• All flights
• All transfers
• Breakfast only

Sophia Travel crafter

The perfect trip for those looking to dive deeper into Mexican culture and history, fall in love with the country's most alluring colonial cities and towns on this inspiring tour.

Travel to Mexico

Extraordinary vacation packages & trips to mexico.

Take a trip to Mexico with Exoticca and enjoy an extraordinary holiday. This country has beautiful beaches, delicious food, and exciting nightlife . You can also visit a wealth of cultural and historical sites.

You’ll have nothing to organize when you book Exoticca’s all-inclusive vacation packages. We handle all your travel essentials, including flights, hotels, tours, transfers, and even some meals .

Trips to Mexico from the USA

There are dozens of reasons to take a trip to Mexico. Many travelers get excited about the sunny beaches, mouth-watering food, and buzzing nightlife. Pleasure awaits foodies, history and culture enthusiasts, party lovers, adventurers, and beachgoers .

Book a tour to Mexico from the USA. Flights depart from Los Angeles, New York, and other major cities .

Top points of interest in Mexico

Mexico offers an array of attractions . We’ve narrowed them down to the most popular sites below.

The beaches in Cancun are gorgeous. Enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, parasailing, and fishing .

Adrenaline junkies can look forward to adventure parks, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and zip-lining . Golfers can play a few rounds while others sightsee.

Go back in time as you explore Chichén Itzá, a large Mayan archaeological site. The highlight of the UNESCO World Heritage Site is the El Castillo pyramid ruins .

After a fun-filled day, let your hair down and party the night away at the entertainment hubs in the city. All these activities make Cancun top of the list for most Mexico vacation packages.

Mexico City

Mexico City has plenty to offer tourists. The nation’s capital is perfect for people who are into arts and culture , with its many museums and ancient ruins. 

The city also features some of the Western Hemisphere’s best cuisine . Aside from tacos, tamales, and quesadillas, foodies will love the street food. These stalls offer a wide variety of meals, including roasted grasshoppers (chapulines).

Explore Mexico’s pre-Columbian era artifacts at the Museo Nacional de Antropología. Don’t miss Teotihuacán, where some of the country’s largest pyramids will leave you in awe.

Oaxaca makes any trip to Mexico unforgettable. It has trendy markets offering artwork and souvenirs, food stalls, and eateries . A not-to-be-missed culinary specialty is mole, a chili-based sauce for those with a strong stomach. 

Don’t skip the main square, Plaza de la Constitución de Oaxaca, or Zócalo, surrounded by eateries and cafes. It’s the perfect spot for taking a breather and shopping for knick-knacks . Nighttime is best when live music fills the air.

Visit Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca if you’re into artifacts. The “Treasure of Tomb 7” has jewelry, beadwork, bone carvings, and a skeleton collection .

Monte Albán

A highlight of trips to Mexico for history fans is exploring the ancient ruins at Monte Albán . The archaeological site features pyramids, dams, terraces, and canals.

The former Zapotec capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It showcases temples, tombs, a tlachtli ball court, and sculptures with hieroglyphic inscriptions .

Monte Albán also boasts magnificent Mesoamerican architectural design and worldwide urbanism.

Many Mexico tours take you to Zinacantan, a little village south of the Chiapas region, where you can experience the life of the indigenous people .

Explore the home of the Tzotzil community, visit churches, and share a meal with a family. Immerse in their traditional life. Make tortillas like a local, and learn to weave at a textile workshop .

Shop for artisan-made embroidered and woven floral apparel . Get gifts for friends and family back home.

You can also visit the many neighborhood churches for a visual treat. The beautiful structural designs and sculptures will astound you.

Mexico: Off the beaten track

Take an adventure tour in Mexico for an off-the-beaten-track excursion showcasing some lesser known attractions: 

• Explore ethnic Maya and Tzotzil villages and coffee plantations in the Chiapas region. Immerse in indigenous traditions and see how the locals live.
• Visit Sierra Chincua, El Rosario, Macheran, and Piedra Herrada. The sites host the nesting habitat of millions of monarch butterflies .
• Magdalena Bay, on the Pacific Coast of Baja California Sur, is a paradise for free divers . Enjoy viewing marine life, like sharks, striped marlins, sea lions, seabirds, and humpback whales.
• Explore jungle lakes and grand waterfalls in the dense Lacandon rainforest. Visit several well-preserved Mayan ruins at the site.

Book your trip to Mexico with Exoticca

Exoticca’s Mexico tours take care of your essential travel arrangements. Expect a hassle-free holiday and focus on having a memorable time . 

All included: Flights, hotels, tours & transfers

Enjoy peace of mind when you book our packages. We organize your flights, hotels, tours, and transportation . Some itineraries also include meals. All you need to do is pack and have fun on your vacation.

Mexico partially or fully guided tours

We offer Mexico vacation packages in the form of fully or partially guided group tours. Passengers can choose between escorted, semi-escorted, fully guided, and independent tours . You can also arrange a private tour with our travel agents.

Created by our own travel experts

Exoticca’s team of travel specialists has meticulously designed over 300 distinct travel packages for 60 diverse global destinations. Our travel team uses their expertise to create the ultimate trips to Mexico .

We collaborate closely with local partners and seasoned guides at each location to ensure our passengers enjoy an effortless and unforgettable travel adventure. These local partners are the driving force behind our carefully curated tours and excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a passport to go to Mexico?

Tourists visiting Mexico must have a valid passport. A Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM) entry permit is also required. You can get it from the Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM).

Is Cancun or Cabo better?

Cancun is ideal if you’re looking to party, as it has more nightlife events than Cabo. The latter is better for sightseeing and adventure trips to Mexico. 

Which side of Mexico has better beaches?

The beaches in Mexico are a diver’s paradise. The Pacific Ocean offers big waves for surfers. The Gulf of Mexico beaches have clear waters and soft sand.

What do I need to do before traveling to Mexico?

Ensure you hold a valid passport. Find out about local laws, vaccination requirements, currency limits, and prohibited items. Ask your travel agent when booking your Mexico vacation package. 

Is Cabo or Puerto Vallarta better?

Puerto Vallarta and Cabo are perfect for people who love beaches and nature. The former is known for its food, culture, and history. The latter has better nightlife options.

Exoticca Travel Stories

Creating unforgettable memories, one traveler at a time

Chichen Itza · Mexico

Mexico essentials

If you want sunshine, super friendly locals, interesting culture and to see one of the seven wonders of the world go to Mexico! This trip with Exoticca was well-planned with good choices of local agents and hotels. I highly recommend.

UK (Exoticca UK)

Mexico Travel guide

Best time to visit Mexico

Events and festivals in mexico, food in mexico, shopping in mexico, mexico tourist attractions.

Agua Azul Waterfalls

Chichen Itza

Guadalajara

Monte Alban

Puerto Vallarta

Riviera Maya

San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Juan Chamula

San Miguel de Allende

Sumidero Canyon

Zinancantan

More information about mexico.

A huge country, located in the southern part of North America, Mexico ignites the imagination with images of Mariachi bands, idyllic beaches and mysterious Mayan Ruins , such as those of Chichen Itza, Tulum,  and Palenque . Mexico shares borders with the United States, Belize,  and Guatemala, and has coastlines on the Pacific Ocean, the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, ensuring a fantastic mix of beach resorts, one of the country’s premier attractions. With a population numbering more than 120 million inhabitants, Mexico is a notoriously populous country and in fact the world’s largest Spanish-speaking nation.

The country is also home to one of the largest cities in the world, the sprawling metropolis of Mexico City, a high-altitude capital known for its 13th-century Aztec Templo Mayor and the baroque Catedral Metropolitana de México . Many vacation packages to Mexico begins in this monumental city, although another must-see urban center is the city of Guadalajara , which has a distinctly traditional Mexican atmosphere and is known for its production of tequila . With a world-renowned cuisine, fantastic arts scene, modern cities, amazing archaeological sites, and unspoiled beaches, especially along the Yucatan Peninsula , it is no wonder that vacations to Mexico are becoming increasingly popular.

History of Mexico

As one of the five cradles of civilization , Mexico is perhaps most famous for the significance of its ancient communities and advanced Mesoamerican civilizations such as the Maya, Aztec,  and Teotihuacan. The Teotihuacan’s were among the first of Mexico’s major ancient civilizations, who began building their impressive capital near modern-day Mexico City in around 100 BC.

Without a doubt, the country’s most famous citizen was the Mayans , who thrived between 250 and 900 AD , when they built elaborate cities, invented a calendar system and produced written languages. A tour of Mexico often includes the well-preserved ruins of the cities and temples built in this historic era. This civilization is remembered for its pyramid temples and complex religious practices and their empire was centered in one geographical area covering all of the Yucatan Peninsula , modern-day Guatemala , Belize and parts of the Mexican states of Tabasco and Chiapas , as well as the western part of Honduras and El Salvador.

The size and organized nature of the civilization ensured that it was relatively secure and was able to flourish for an impressively long period of time. Sadly, the Maya empire collapsed around the 10th century, possibly due to overpopulation and exhaustion of natural resources, shortly followed by the rise of the later Aztec civilization. The turning point for the history of Mexico came in the early 16th-century , with the arrival of Spanish Conquistadors , who colonized and took over a large proportion of the Aztec empire, with much of the indigenous population facing devastation from the onslaught of European diseases.

Following on from the conquistadors, missionaries arrived later in the century and converted many of the indigenous to Catholicism , marking a move away from the ancient religions and practices of Mexico’s great civilizations. The country was renamed ‘ New Spain’ by the colonists and acted as an important base for further Spanish exploration in the Americas. During the following centuries, modern Mexican culture developed, especially in the areas of architecture, traditions, and identity. By the early 20th-century, the Mexican people were tired of the inequality that plagued their country and a 10-year revolution, between 1910 and 1920, resulted in a number of social reforms and eventually in the re-establishment of communal farming practices, an important part of Mexican heritage.

Today, it is clear that the struggles faced by the Mexican people have fostered a strong sense of national identity and a huge amount of pride in the people for their ancient roots. A multi-center holiday to Mexico is the most popular way to experience the different sides of life in the country, and the history which has shaped it.

Nature in Mexico

If Mexico’s fascinating history is not appealing enough, then its abundant nature and biodiversity is sure to impress you. In fact, Mexico is one of just 17 ‘Megadiverse’ countries in the world and the natural wealth of its wildlife and ecosystems are one of the major attractions for visitors on a holiday to Mexico. An amazing 707 reptile, 438 mammals and 26,000 plant species can be found in the country and the 34 biosphere reserves and 67 national parks serve to protect and support these impressive populations in the 4th most biodiverse country in the world. Native species include spider monkeys, vaquita porpoise sea cows, an endangered species found in the Gulf of California , ocelots, the rare Quetzal bird, and the Mexican grey wolf.

Mexico is home to environments ranging from mountains to rainforests, volcanoes, deserts, reefs and mystical cenotes, and each environment has its own unique activities, wildlife and attractions to enjoy. From whale-watching on the Yucatan Peninsula to marveling at swarms of Monarch butterflies in the Rosario Sanctuary of Anganguero and wildlife spotting in the Lacandona Jungle, Mexico’s natural abundance can be experienced in any number of ways. Admiring the Copper Canyon and its unique geological formations in Chihuahua, enjoying a boat ride on Lake Chapala, the largest freshwater lake in the country and visiting the petrified waterfalls of Oaxaca’s Hierve el Agua or the firefly forests of Tlaxcala are just some of the most unmissable experiences on a tour of Mexico.

Culture in Mexico

The three colors of Mexico’s flag hold important messages about Mexican identity; green represents the hope and victory of the people, white represents the purity of the country’s ideals and red represents the bloodshed of the nation's heroes, who fought for the freedom of their country.

Mexican culture is much loved around the world and known for its lively traditions and exciting music scene. Religion plays a big role in the lives of everyday people, especially Christianity , and there are a number of important Mexican saints, whilst traditional festivals, such as the Day of the Dead have ignited the imaginations of millions worldwide. On the Day of the Dead, a celebration held annually on the 2nd November, families gather together to remember their deceased relatives and to help their loved ones in their spiritual journey.

Households often decorate an altarpiece with offerings and photos of their passed relatives. The blend of both indigenous and Spanish influences has resulted in a rich gastronomic tradition and a wealth of folk arts and crafts, characterized by colorful embroidery, pottery, and woven baskets and rugs. Mexico is also well known for producing a number of world-renowned artists, such as Frida Kahlo, known for her iconic self-portraits and surrealist modern art, and her husband Diego Riviera , famed for his murals and depictions of life in Mexico.

A vacation package to Mexico will open your eyes to the rich culture, amazing biodiversity and fascinating history of this huge country as you walk through atmospheric temple ruins, swim in the turquoise waters of the many mystic cenotes or taste Tequila in its place of origin. After the excitement of visiting the country’s sights and attractions, relaxing on the tranquil beaches of the Riviera Maya whilst listening to the rhythms of the Mariachi band is the perfect way to unwind.

Mexico travel information

Entry requirements

Valid passport with one blank page.

No visa is required. Departure tax from Cancun is around 1000 pesos.

UTC - 06:00 to UTC - 08:00.

Tourist Office website

Electricity

127 V. Adapter required.

Other useful information

Free support for tourists by calling 078.

Please consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis.

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