What to Expect on a 6-Day Cruise in the Western Galapagos
Sea lions and giant tortoises and marine iguanas, oh my! The Galapagos conjures images of bizarre creatures and windswept volcanic shores. It is this and so much more. As the archipelago is a protected national park, the best way to explore is to take a small ship cruise with a naturalist guide. In July ’23… Read Full Post
Elusive Northern Wildlife: What You May See on an Arctic Cruise
The Arctic, situated at Earth’s polar north, is a land of vast ice and snow. An Arctic cruise will take you through drifting pack ice to see massive frozen walls and calving glaciers. It will also give you an opportunity to spot unique and magnificent wildlife. You likely won’t see teeming animal throngs the way… Read Full Post
The Sensation of Tasting Top Pastry Chef in the World’s Confections at Nuema in Quito
Have you ever closed your eyes while chewing to fully immerse yourself in flavor? Have you spent hours watching documentaries with sultry slow-mo shots of top chef’s creations? Has food ever made you laugh, cry, or shout out in sheer delight? If you answered yes to any of these questions, and you are planning a… Read Full Post
Jaguar Spotting in the Pantanal: South vs. North
Intro Perhaps one of the best-kept wildlife secrets in South America is the Pantanal of Brazil. Often referred to as a “Brazilian safari,” there are 2 main regions in the Pantanal where it is possible and even common to see jaguars in the wild, as well as many other beautiful species. I was lucky to… Read Full Post
Hiking Machu Picchu: Huayna Picchu and Huchuy Picchu
Located high in the Andes Mountains, overlooking the Urubamba River and surrounded by steep mountains, Machu Picchu is a testament to the architectural achievements of the Inca. It is recognized as one of the most important cultural sites in the world and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as one of… Read Full Post
Top 7 Reasons For a Private Galapagos Yacht Charter
The Galapagos Islands are a rare and special place in the world. Not only are they home to unique species of wildlife and exotic landscapes, but they are also the ideal place to charter a yacht and explore this archipelago with your family or a group of friends. Here are our top 7 reasons why… Read Full Post
Flying to Antarctica (Without the Drake Passage): My First Journey to the 7th Continent
As I stood on the windswept tarmac in Puna Arenas, Chile, I felt nervous yet wasn’t sure why. Anticipation and excitement, yes. But, as a seasoned traveler, anxiety is not something I typically experience before getting on a plane. Perhaps it was not knowing exactly what to expect. Or having to be prepared to change… Read Full Post
Cartagena, Colombia: Crown Jewel of the Caribbean
This beguiling city has a way of getting under your skin and beckoning you to return again and again. Cartagena has cast such a spell on me that even as I am just now unpacking my bags from my second visit, I am left yearning to return. Like a book you want to re-read with… Read Full Post
Cruise to Svalbard: Cooling Off In An Arctic Summer
Years ago, when Vaya first began arranging trips to Antarctica, I was fortunate to be invited to travel south to the end of the world to research this dream destination. That Antarctica trip was truly the most spectacular travel experience of my entire life. So of course, I was thrilled this past summer when I… Read Full Post
Which Side of Victoria Falls Should you Visit? 4 Things to Consider
Victoria Falls is an excellent addition to any Southern Africa itinerary, offering great contrast to both safari adventures and explorations into the history and culture of Cape Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating mix of scenery, nature, wildlife, culture, history, and even adventure. Whatever your draw to the famous falls may be,… Read Full Post