Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts
Crossing Col de Balme
Map of Chamonix to Zermatt Walker's Haute Route - 12 Days
Chamonix to Zermatt Walker's Haute Route - 12 Days

You'll explore high alpine passes, pass through thick pine forests, hike along the base of glaciated peaks, and much more on this 12-day trekking itinerary. Start your trip in Chamonix—the French 'Capital of Alpinism'—then head east into Switzerland, arriving 10 days later in Zermatt at the base of the Matterhorn. As you hike through the Alps, you'll spend your time looking for wildlife, breathing in the fresh alpine air, and taking in the views, ending each day with comfortable stays in villages and mountain huts.

Iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler
Map of Sea-to-Sky Highway: Vancouver to Whistler - 4 Days
Sea-to-Sky Highway: Vancouver to Whistler - 4 Days

Visit two of British Columbia's most popular destinations on this 4-day road trip. In Vancouver, stroll the cobbled streets of historic Gastown and enjoy some of Canada's best restaurants. Then take the stunning Sea-to-Sky Highway to the mountains of Whistler where you can access numerous hiking trails to alpine lakes. En route, take time to stop at ocean viewpoints or walk the short trails to local waterfalls.

The Sea to Sky Highway in winter with Howe Sound in the background
Map of Sea-to-Sky Highway: Vancouver to Whistler - 6 Days
Sea-to-Sky Highway: Vancouver to Whistler - 6 Days

Experience the best of the city and coast mountains on this short road trip between Vancouver and Whistler. You'll have a day to explore cosmopolitan Vancouver before driving north along the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway to the mountain resort town of Whistler. You'll then have two solid days devoted to exploring Whistler's bounty of alpine trails, glacial lakes, and great restaurants and breweries.

Baby Alpaca
Map of Multi Country South America Adventure: Ecuador & Peru - 14 Days
Multi Country South America Adventure: Ecuador & Peru - 14 Days

Experience the best of Ecuador's mainland and Peru's highlights on this two-week trip. Start in Quito to tour the UNESCO-designated city center, then head to the Amazon for cultural experiences with the Kichwa indigenous community, wildlife viewing, and a peaceful rainforest atmosphere. Return to Quito by way of Cotopaxi National Park, home to the eponymous volcano. Then, catch a flight to Lima—the urban hub of Peru. End the trip with a visit to Cusco's pre-Inca ruins and a tour of the Sacred Valley and imperial Machu Picchu residence.

Sunset in Palma de Mallorca
Highlights of Spain & Portugal - 19 Days

This 19-day itinerary allows you to visit three different regions of Spain, including Madrid, Basque Country, and Catalonia, as well as the Balearic Islands and Portugal. Throughout the adventure, you'll enjoy great food, wine tours, a flamenco show, historic Gothic architecture, and even make time for a bit of island-hopping in Ibiza and Mallorca. You'll also fly into Portugal to explore the cities of Porto and Lisbon, as well as the wine region in the Douro Valley and the famous palace of Sintra.

Sunset Views over Barcelona
Explore the Cities, Islands, and Culture of Spain - 14 Days

This 2-week trip leads you through Spain's major cities while also experiencing unique nature and beaches in the Canary Islands. Explore the historic city centers of Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville with tapas tours, flamenco dancing, bike rides, and sailing excursions. Enjoy a Jeep safari on the slopes of a volcano, go whale watching, and hike the Caminito del Rey trail, plus tour the famous Alhambra and enjoy a sherry tasting in Jerez.

Aerial View of Madrid Cathedral
Map of Explore the Cities & Culture of Spain: Madrid, Valencia & Barcelona - 8 Days
Explore the Cities & Culture of Spain: Madrid, Valencia & Barcelona - 8 Days

This eight-day tour takes you through the historic districts of Madrid, Valencia, and Barcelona, starting with a tapas tour and a visit to the famous El Prado Museum in Spain's capital. Enjoy a day trip to a medieval city near Madrid before driving to the coast and eating paella in Valencia. End the trip in Barcelona by sailing its coastline and exploring its culinary scene.

Aerial Views of Granada, Spain
Cities & Culture in Spain: Madrid, Seville, Granada & Barcelona - 10 Days

Discover the culture of Spain's cities on this nine-day trip, starting with a tour through Madrid and an evening of flamenco and tapas in Seville. Then, make your way to Granada, passing through the village of Ronda and a winery along the way. You'll explore Granada's famous Alhambra palace and gardens, then fly to Barcelona for a cycling tour of its historic districts and a visit to the sites of Gaudí's.

Plaza de España and Seville Skyline
Cities & Culture in Spain: Madrid, Seville & Granada - 9 Days

This nine-day road trip includes stops at some of Spain's most historic locales, including Madrid, Toledo, and the Andalusian cities of Seville and Granada. Celebrate rich Spanish culture as you tour historic Old Towns by foot and bike, all while tasting delicious tapas and enjoying a flamenco show. You'll explore the southern countryside with a tour of an olive oil farm and a hike along Caminito del Rey, and then visit Granada to discover one of the most impressive Moorish palaces in Europe, the Alhambra.

Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
City Highlights Tour: Madrid, Seville, Granada & Barcelona - 9 Days

Explore Spain's lively cities and vibrant culture, starting with a gourmet food tour in Madrid and a flamenco show in Seville. Stop in Córdoba to tour the Mezquita, then discover Granada's most popular site, the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens. Meander the historic district of Albaicín with a personal photographer before ending the trip in Barcelona by touring the works of Gaudí and enjoying a day trip.

Views of the Mezquita-Catedral and Puente Romano
Highlights of Madrid & Andalusia - 8 Days

Explore some of Spain's best cities on this eight-day trip to Madrid and the region of Andalusia, starting with private tours of Madrid's historic neighborhoods and its royal past. Board the train to the city of Seville for tapas and flamenco, as well as a day trip to the town of Ronda and a winery. You'll end the trip with Granada for a tour of the famous Alhambra and Generalife Gardens before returning to Madrid.

The Alhambra and Generalife, Granada
Map of Highlights of Madrid & Andalusía - 8 Days
Highlights of Madrid & Andalusía - 8 Days

Explore the highlights of Spain by visiting the cities of Madrid, Córdoba, and Granada on this eight-day trip. You'll enjoy private tours of the historic old towns, as well as a day trip to Toledo to learn about its historic steel production and marzipan. End the trip in Spain's southern region Andalusía with tours of the Alhambra in Granada, the Mezquita in Córdoba, and the famous White Villages in the countryside.

Lioness and her cub near Kruger
Map of South Africa Safari & Cities: Johannesburg, Kruger Private Reserves, Cape Town, & Winelands - 13 Days
South Africa Safari & Cities: Johannesburg, Kruger Private Reserves, Cape Town, & Winelands - 13 Days

Experience the best of South Africa on this two-week itinerary, from the privately owned game reserves of the north to the internationally-acclaimed wines of Franschhoek. Fly into Johannesburg, then spend a week on safari at looking for Africa's Big 5 near Kruger. Continue to Cape Town where you'll rent a car, allowing you to drive along the Atlantic Seaboard and take an overnight trip to the Winelands. This itinerary combines a variety of activities with enough free time to explore at your own pace.

Plaza de España, Seville
Explore Madrid & Seville - 8 Days

This eight-day itinerary focuses on Madrid and Seville, leading you through the historic centers of both cities, as well as day trips to Córdoba and Toledo. You'll explore the cities with food and biking tours, visits to tapas, bars, and flamenco shows, plus a private tour of the El Prado museum in Madrid. End the trip with a visit to the famous White Villages of Andalusia and the town of Ronda, plus tours of an olive oil farm and a vineyard.

Elephant in Amboseli National Park
Wildlife & Culture in Kenya - 14 Days

Explore nature and wildlife in Kenya with safaris and visits to Maasai villages in several national parks, starting with the famous pink flamingos at Lake Bogoria and Lake Nakuru. Watch Maasai Mara's Great Migration from land and air in an optional hot air balloon ride, then visit the giraffes of Crescent Island on Lake Naivasha. Search for the Big Five and enjoy scenes of elephants grazing below Mt. Kilimanjaro in Amboseli National Park before returning to Nairobi to visit the Giraffe Center and Kazuri bead workshop.

A group of feeding zebras in Serengeti National Park
Kenya & Tanzania Wildlife Safari - 7 Days

This exciting itinerary includes unforgettable game drives in Kenya and Tanzania for travelers who like to be on the move. Start with two nights in Nairobi for an introduction to Kenyan culture and wildlife conservation. Then, fly to Kilimanjaro, where you'll visit three beautiful safari destinations, including the Serengeti and UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy the comfort of private transfers and unique all-inclusive lodgings for the ultimate African adventure.

Costa Rica's famous Arenal Volcano
Map of Diverse Costa Rica: Arenal, Monteverde & Tamarindo - 7 Days
Diverse Costa Rica: Arenal, Monteverde & Tamarindo - 7 Days

Combine lush rainforests and Pacific beaches on this relaxed, weeklong road-trip through Costa Rica. Starting in the vibrant capital of San José, you'll set out for the volcanic landscapes of Arenal, where scenic hikes and natural hot springs beckon. Continue to the rare cloud forests of Monteverde to zip-line through the canopy and discover nocturnal wildlife on an evening jungle tour. End your trip on the coast, where you can surf, snorkel, and relax on the tropical white sands of Tamarindo.

Zebra and Wildebeest on the Mara River
Explore the Masai Mara Game Reserve - 5 Days

Explore the rich ecosystem of the Masai Mara Game Reserve with daily safaris and the option for hot air balloon rides above the river valley. You'll start in Nairobi with a quick tour of the city, then head to the park where you'll enjoy observing the Great Migration across the Mara River. Along with expert guides, you'll look for the Big Five populations, spotting giraffe, lion, hippo, and zebra from game drives, and elephants from the comfort of your camp's viewing lounge.

The breathtaking scenery of Norway's Lofoten Islands
Map of Hidden Lofoten: Explore Norway's Secret Islands - 8 Days
Hidden Lofoten: Explore Norway's Secret Islands - 8 Days

Discover Norway's remote Lofoten Islands on this scenic 8-day itinerary. Set off from the northern mainland town of Bodø and make your way south across the magical archipelago to end your journey on the breathtaking shores of Værøy. Along the way, you'll explore the secluded beaches, rugged mountains, and charming villages of this extraordinary region. With evenings spent in cozy, traditional accommodations and days devoted to a selection of memorable hikes and excursions, this relaxed itinerary is perfect for travelers looking for an intimate, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Moskva River, Moscow
Discover Russia's Capitals & Golden Ring - 14 Days

Discover the vibrant capital cities of Russia, starting in Moscow with its famous Red Square, Kremlin, and sprawling Izmailovsky Market. You'll visit ancient settlements of the Golden Ring, including the towns of Vladimir and Suzdal, touring museums, churches, and monasteries. End your trip exploring St Petersburg's monuments and palaces, including Tsar's Village, Peterhof, and the Hermitage with the world's largest collection of paintings.

Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul
Exploring Ancient and Historic Turkey - 7 Days

Enjoy a week exploring some of Turkey's most historic sites, including the lively city of Istanbul with tours of its Old Town, mosques, and palaces, plus a cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. Then make your way to the famed battlegrounds of Gallipoli and explore the Ancient City of Troy where the Trojan War took place. End your trip with visits to the Orthodox village of Şirince, the ancient site of Pergamum, and the ruins of Ephesus.

Section of the King's Highway
Map of Highlights of Jordan by Bike - 8 Days
Highlights of Jordan by Bike - 8 Days

Explore the deserts and seasides of Jordan via bike on this eight-day trip. You'll start with the city of Amman, then tour the ruins at Jerash and archaeological sites at Madaba on the shores of the Red Sea. Follow the King's Highway to Kerak Castle, cycle through the Wadi Araba desert and camp under the stars, and see the famous monuments of Petra and sand dunes of Wadi Rum, all under your own steam.

Explore the best of Costa Rica's coastline
Map of Arenal & Gulf of Papagayo: Best Itinerary Ideas
Arenal & Gulf of Papagayo: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Costa Rica typically plan a trip for 8 to 10 days when combining both Arenal and Gulf of Papagayo with Monteverde. If you're only headed to Arenal and Gulf of Papagayo, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 7 to 8 days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as 5 or 6 days. Read on for the best itineraries including Arenal, Gulf of Papagayo, and beyond.

Beaches at Manuel Antonio
Map of Manuel Antonio & Monteverde: Best Itinerary Ideas
Manuel Antonio & Monteverde: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting both Manuel Antonio and Monteverde spend about 8 to 10 days in Costa Rica, which usually includes some time in Arenal/La Fortuna as well. For travelers wanting to visit Manuel Antonio and Monteverde exclusively, plan on 6 to 7 days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as 5 days. Check out our favorite Manuel Antonio and Monteverde trips below.

Arenal Volcano
Map of Arenal, Tortuguero, & Gulf of Papagayo: Best Itinerary Ideas
Arenal, Tortuguero, & Gulf of Papagayo: Best Itinerary Ideas

Twelve to 14 days is the most popular trip length for Costa Rica travelers combining Arenal, Tortuguero, and Gulf of Papagayo with Monteverde. Without Monteverde, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 9 to 10 days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as 7 or 8 days. Check out our favorite trips including Arenal, Tortuguero, and Gulf of Papagayo below.

Sunset in Costa Rica
Map of Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, & Río Pacuare: Best Itinerary Ideas
Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, & Río Pacuare: Best Itinerary Ideas

Combining Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Río Pacuare makes for a perfect trip to Costa Rica. To make the most of your trip, maximizing time between travel days at each stop, you'll want to plan your trip for about 10 to 11 days. Even with a tight schedule, travelers can see the classic highlights in as few as 8 or 9 days. See our best-loved Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo, and Río Pacuare itineraries below to start planning your Costa Rica trip.

Blue houses in Chefchaouen
Map of Fes, Casablanca, & Chefchaouen: Best Itinerary Ideas
Fes, Casablanca, & Chefchaouen: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Fes, Casablanca, and Chefchaouen spend about 6 to 7 days in Morocco, which usually includes some time in Marrakech as well. If you're only headed to Fes, Casablanca, and Chefchaouen, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 5 to 6 days. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in 4 days for travelers with limited time. For the best itineraries including Fes, Casablanca, and Chefchaouen, keep reading below.

Discover Rabat and the Blue Cities of the North
Map of Fes, Chefchaouen, & Rabat: Best Itinerary Ideas
Fes, Chefchaouen, & Rabat: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Morocco typically plan a trip for 8 to 10 days when combining Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat with Marrakech, and the Moroccan Desert. If you're only headed to Northern Morocco, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 5 to 6 days. Check out our favorite Fes, Chefchaouen, and Rabat trips below.

Santa Maria Cathedral in Girona, Catalonia, Spain along the Costa Brava
Map of Barcelona & the Costa Brava: Best Itinerary Ideas
Barcelona & the Costa Brava: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that seven to nine days are perfect for a well-paced Spain trip with stops in both Barcelona and the Costa Brava. It's possible to hit the highlights in five or six days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—one of the best-loved trip extensions includes the medieval town of Vic. See more ideas and itineraries below.

Bridge spanning the gorge in Ronda, Spain
Map of Seville, Granada, & Ronda: Best Itinerary Ideas
Seville, Granada, & Ronda: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Spain typically plan a trip for 12 to 14 days when combining Seville, Granada, and Ronda, including a few days in Barcelona and Madrid. If you're not interested in Barcelona and Madrid, 8 days is enough for your Seville, Granada, and Ronda trip. Check out our favorite Seville, Granada, and Ronda trips below.

Evening view of the Vatican, Rome
Map of Rome, Bologna & Florence: Best Itinerary Ideas
Rome, Bologna & Florence: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 7 to 10 days are the perfect amount of time for a trip with stops in Rome, Bologna, and Florence. Travelers with less time can hit the highlights in six days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Venice and the Amalfi Coast. Get inspired with our trip ideas below.

Explore all the hidden gems and beautiful beaches of Lombok & Sumbawa
Map of Discover the Hidden Treasures of Lombok & Sumbawa - 20 Days
Discover the Hidden Treasures of Lombok & Sumbawa - 20 Days

Experience the magic of Indonesia on this 3-week trip from Lombok's laidback surf capital of Kuta to uninhabited islands off the coast of Sumbawa. Hike the lush forests around Mount Rinjani, explore the underwater world of the Southern Gili Islands, and customize your adventure with optional activities—like an overnight trek camping on the slopes of an active volcano.

Windjana Gorge, The Kimberley © Tourism Western Australia
Map of Kimberley Safari in Remote Northwestern Australia - 14 Days
Kimberley Safari in Remote Northwestern Australia - 14 Days

The Kimberley, remote and wild, is considered one of the most beautiful regions of Australia. This 14-day safari starts in Broome where you'll travel the length of the famous Gibb River Road, visiting spectacular gorges where the colors come alive with the sun. Get up-close views of freshwater crocodiles and beautiful Australian birds. Admire Aboriginal rock art, soak in hot springs, and visit the famous El Questro Station and other famous sites. An almost endless list of experiences awaits you.

Explore the region's most famous cities.
Map of Discover China, Hong Kong and Macau - 12 Days
Discover China, Hong Kong and Macau - 12 Days

Take a great trip to China and experience the country's most famous attractions. Trek the Great Wall, explore the world's largest palace, the Forbidden City, view the amazing 2,000-year-old Terracotta Warriors, and visit Hong Kong and Macau on this comprehensive trip.

Three-quarters of the Summer Palace is water
Map of Family Trip to Beijing and Shanghai - 8 Days
Family Trip to Beijing and Shanghai - 8 Days

This week-long tour, designed for families with children, covers the most famous cities in China: Beijing and Shanghai. Explore the treasures of the labyrinthian Forbidden City, hike the Mutianyu section of the iconic Great Wall, visit the Summer Palace by boat, and enjoy panoramic city views from the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Cap it off with a true family favorite: an epic day at Shanghai Disneyland.

Sydney Harbour
Map of Best of New Zealand & Australia: Queenstown, Cairns, Sydney & More - 15 Days
Best of New Zealand & Australia: Queenstown, Cairns, Sydney & More - 15 Days

This fun two-week tour allows you to experience some of the highlights of New Zealand's South Island, as well as Australia's east coast. Begin in Christchurch, then travel across the mountains to explore mountains, glaciers, fiords, and the 'Adventure Capital of New Zealand', Queenstown. Traveling across to Australia, snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef, visit one of the oldest rainforests in the world at the Daintree National Park, have fun at a theme park on the Gold Coast, see the highlights of Sydney, and marvel at the unparalleled natural beauty of the Blue Mountains. This tour fits a lot of varied sights and experiences into two action-packed weeks. 

Sydney Opera House
How Many Days to Spend in Sydney

As Australia's largest city, you could spend several weeks in Sydney and still not run out of things to see and do. But, most travelers don't have this long. If you're short on time, the priorities should be seeing some of the central city's landmarks, whereas if you have a few days, you can make some day trips to natural attractions farther afield. So, how many days should you spend in Sydney? Read on to find out more about your options.

Slea Head, Dingle Peninsula
Map of 2 Weeks in Ireland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Ireland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend, you can see as much of Ireland as you'd like—classic highlights and remote wonders alike—plus exploration of Northern Ireland. Take a road trip that includes key attractions, like the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry, or focus your time on one region—for example, you can drive the Wild Atlantic Way, hike the Dingle Peninsula, or bike the windswept coastal landscapes of the north.

Autumn in Banff National Park
Map of Canadian Rockies to Vancouver: Banff, Radium, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 12 Days
Canadian Rockies to Vancouver: Banff, Radium, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 12 Days

Experience the best of the Canadian Rockies on this epic road trip from Calgary to Vancouver. Start by exploring famous Banff National Park before crossing over into British Columbia and heading south through interior lake country and historic mining communities. Finally, you'll have a few days to unwind and relax at the end of your trip by visiting some of the country's best wineries in the Okanagan Valley, surrounded by Canada's only desert. 

Lake Victoria from above
Kenyan Culture & Wildlife: Lake Victoria, Kisumu, & Maasai Mara - 8 Days

Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world, giving you plenty to explore on this eight-day itinerary. Dive into lake life on Rusinga and Mfangano islands, stroll the streets of Kisumu city, and safari through the famous Maasai Mara reserve as you enjoy a spectrum of what Kenya has to offer.

Natural Bridge, a rock formation in Yoho National Park
Map of Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Revelstoke, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 14 Days
Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Revelstoke, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 14 Days

Immerse yourself in the wild and rugged beauty of British Columbia on this two-week road trip that covers the province's best natural highlights. Carving an "S" through the Canadian Rockies, Kootenays, and the fruit belt of the Okanagan, you'll begin in Calgary, drive through Banff, Yoho, and Mount Revelstoke national parks, and end your journey along the southern border sipping some of the best local wines.

Peyto Lake, Banff National Park
Map of Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Revelstoke, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 13 Days
Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Revelstoke, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 13 Days

Starting in Calgary and ending in Vancouver, you'll cross the Canadian Rockies with ample time to explore beautiful Banff National Park. After the Rockies, wind your way south through historic mining towns and lake country to the province's famous wine region, the Okanagan Valley. Here, in Osoyoos, visit some of the best smaller local wineries that British Columbia has to offer before ending your trip with a day to explore Vancouver.

A reindeer in Tromsø
Map of Norway Winter Adventure: Bergen, Geilo, Oslo, Aurland, Tromsø, & Alta - 14 Days
Norway Winter Adventure: Bergen, Geilo, Oslo, Aurland, Tromsø, & Alta - 14 Days

In Bergen, you can enjoy a local tour of this cobble-stoned wharf city before taking a scenic train journey to Geilo where you will have a day of skiing. The railway will then take you to Aurland, where you'll have a cruise on Nærøyfjord and then depart to Oslo for two nights on the Flåm Railway before flying to Tromsø. Here, you will chase the northern lights in a sled pulled by reindeers and enjoy an authentic wilderness hunting experience—and you'll then make your way to Alta—where you will discover rock art and stay overnight in the Igloo Hotel.

Ladakh lake
Map of Highlights of Ladakh: Leh, Nubra Valley & Pangong Tso - 7 Days
Highlights of Ladakh: Leh, Nubra Valley & Pangong Tso - 7 Days

With a week to visit Ladakh, you'll have the chance to see all of the region's highlights. Start by exploring the city of Leh and touring the surrounding monasteries, then head to the Nubra Valley (whose Tibetan name means "valley of flowers") for sightseeing and a camel safari. Your next stop will be Pangong Tso, a sprawling lake known for its blue-green waters. Afterward, pass by scenic Sindhu Ghat and visit a local children's NGO, before returning to Leh for one last stroll through its colorful markets.

Suspension bridge on the Juan de Fuca Trail near Mystic Beach
Map of Pacific Marine Circle Route - 6 Days
Pacific Marine Circle Route - 6 Days

Starting and ending in Victoria, this loop follows the southern coastline of Vancouver Island before veering north through old-growth rainforest accessed by former logging roads. The reward? Countless remote beaches, some of the largest trees on the island, and numerous great hiking trails. This is the perfect itinerary for getting off the beaten path in a short amount of time.

Waterfalls on Gordon River near Port Renfrew
Map of Pacific Marine Circle Route - 5 Days
Pacific Marine Circle Route - 5 Days

This short road trip takes you off the beaten path to explore Vancouver Island's southern coastline, following former logging roads that have recently been paved. You'll have short drives each day so you can spend more time exploring nature—old-growth rainforests, remote beaches, hiking trails, as well as smaller historical communities.

Singapore Lion fountain is a favorite spot for locals and tourists
Map of Highlights of Singapore - 5 Days
Highlights of Singapore - 5 Days

There is much to see and do in the island city-state of Singapore. From admiring natural wonders at the Singapore Botanical Gardens to getting up close with animals at the Singapore Zoo, window shopping along Orchard Road, and dining at the famed hawker centers—open-air food markets serving signature street food—Singapore is a bustling metropolis that offers something for everyone. Experience the best of Singapore with this five-day itinerary.

Prayer wheels in Bhutan
Map of Culture & Outdoor Adventure in Bhutan - 7 Days
Culture & Outdoor Adventure in Bhutan - 7 Days

The tranquil kingdom of Bhutan awaits travelers with spectacular landscapes and sacred temples. Explore the best of Bhutan's natural wonders and cultural highlights on this seven-day itinerary. Begin with sightseeing in the capital of Thimphu, then drive across the high-altitude Dochula Pass to the semi-tropical valley of Punakha, where you'll hike across suspension bridges and go river rafting. Continue to the Ha Valley, where you will sleep in a traditional farmhouse, then cycle to Paro and end the trip with a trek to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Colorful boats in Port Lympia, Nice, France
Best Time of Year to Visit the French Riviera

The French Riviera is a true pleasure to visit at any time of year. Spring and summer are preferable if you're looking for the classic resort experience: even though you'll encounter festival crowds and vacationers left and right, you'll enjoy beautiful beach weather. Fall is quieter and rainier, though early fall is still great for swimming in the Mediterranean. And winter is mild in the region, with few crowds, save for the tourist influx around Christmas and Carnaval. Read on for more information about the best time of year to visit the French Riviera.

Ruins of the ancient city of Perge
Map of Historic Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Konya - 9 Days
Historic Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Konya - 9 Days

Embark on a trip through Turkey's history and discover why this country was one of the most important forces of the ancient world. Begin in Istanbul, a melting pot of east and west which straddles the European and Asian continental border, and end in Antalya, home of some of the world's best-preserved ancient sites. Along the way, you'll visit the otherworldly landscape of Cappadocia, cruise down the Bosphorus River, and visit the tomb of famed Sufi mystic and poet Rumi.

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