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A Journey Through (Some!) Italian White Wines, One Sip At A Time
Embarking on a journey through the heart of Italy, I found myself captivated not only by the rich history and culture but also by the diverse and exciting world of enotecas, osterias and bacari (wine bars, small family-run restaurants and taverns) and Italian wines. Working with French and Spanish wine in the past, ignited in… Read Full Post
2023 Vaya Photo Contest Winners
Vaya travelers are known for being genuinely curious and respectful, for delving into the destinations they visit with open hearts and open minds. This approach is reflected in their photographs – images brimming with warm human connection, responsible wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. That’s what makes judging Vaya’s annual photo contest so much fun. After… Read Full Post
20 Years of Vaya Adventures: Thanks from Vaya’s Founder Jim Lutz
Dear Travelers and Friends, Wow… 20 years!! Back in 2004, we (OK, actually it was just me) created the very first Vaya Adventure, a custom itinerary to South America for my father (thanks Dad). We’ve come a long way since then, expanding to offer stunning Polar expeditions and an array of exceptional African safaris. We’ve… Read Full Post
A Chocolatada in Huacahuasi: Sharing Holiday Time in the Remote Peruvian Andes
Living in Peru has provided me with many special opportunities and experiences, one of them being included and immersed in the day-to-day lives of the hearty people who live off the land. Temperatures at high altitudes are absolutely freezing, the soil is solid, and it´s a very harsh environment. I have personally adapted to live… Read Full Post
From Farm to Earth Oven to Table: Experiencing Pachamanca in Peru
Peru’s cuisine has become world-famous over the last few years, home to four of the world’s top 50 restaurants including the coveted #1 spot. But amidst the myriad of iconic Peruvian dishes, one in particular stood out on my most recent trip there – the Pachamanca. Pachamanca is much more than just a culinary experience… Read Full Post
The Best Hikes on Easter Island
As a South America specialist at Vaya, my favorite adventures to arrange for our travelers are those that venture to the most remote parts of the continent, the ones that instill in us a humbling sense of our small place in such a vast world. Easter Island, the tiny dot of land 2,500 miles off… Read Full Post
Exploring South Africa With My Teenage Daughter
Sometimes it seems almost impossible to get all five members of my family (me, my wife Carly, and our three kids) on an international trip together because somebody has a conflict with soccer, dance, summer camp, a piano recital, or something else. So I decided I’m going to take a different strategy and pick off… Read Full Post
Africa’s Northern Five
I will never forget the first wild animal I ever saw in Africa. Seventeen years ago in Tanzania, we were only about 30 minutes outside of Arusha, our arrival city, when a zebra appeared just off the side of the main road. There was much excitement and pointing and our poor guide had to pull… Read Full Post
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