Detours
TRAVEL NEWS Going Beyond Ordinary By Isabelle Labrosse
More and more travellers are looking to explore the world differently. Whether visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations, being more environmentally conscious, or indulging in one-of-a-kind experiences, here’s what’s new in travel to take you beyond the ordinary.
TALLIN, ESTONIA
GREAT BARRIER REEF
PLACES LESS TRAVELLED Kensington Tours recently launched new customizable itineraries in the Baltics. Guests will tour markets, beer museums and black balsam bars in Latvia’s capital, trek through the Estonian countryside, and visit Lithuania’s Curonian Spit to witness the mesmerizing navy blues of the sea. Travellers can enjoy privately guided tours for an intimate experience.
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCES Cruisers, get ready for a treat! The 16-day Indonesian Immersive & Great Barrier Reef expedition departing Oct. 15, 2020, aboard Crystal Cruises’ Endeavor yacht will not only be an exploration of Australia’s southern islands and Indonesia’s tropics, but also a celebration of culinary excellence. World-famous chef Nobu Matsuhisa – the mastermind behind Crystal’s Umi Uma & Sushi Bar – will be on board to host an array of special events and dining experiences, including three limited-availability chef’s choice dinners. Cooking demonstrations, sake tastings, and floral design lessons complement the program.
For 2020, the Globus family of brands also unveiled new Undiscovered Mediterranean vacations for travellers wishing to explore areas outside the usual tourist destinations. One itinerary, the 8-day Greek Island Adventure, will whisk guests away to lesser-known isles of Greece, including Paros, the “mini-Mykonos,” and Naxos, the greenest of Greek islands, to savour unparalleled views and unhurried villages.
VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE ©TODD WESELAKE, G ADVENTURES
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL To support conservation and responsible tourism, G Adventures renewed its partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, adding 12 new wildlife-focused tours to its collection. Itineraries include a 10-day Botswana & Zimbabwe Safari taking travellers from Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park and Okavango Delta for incredible wildlife viewing, and a 10-day Nepal: Himalaya Highlights tour with an overnight in a Buddhist monastery. This marks the fourth year the tour operator is partnering with the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, the mission of which is to protect wildlife and empower local communities. Vacations® • Winter 2019 • 15
