May is a month brimming with possibilities. As foliage bursts into bloom and temperatures rise, many destinations remain pleasantly uncrowded. Family vacations dictated by school schedules have already come and gone, and the summer travel season has yet to fully unfold. For adaptable travelers, Memorial Day presents a wonderful opportunity for an extended getaway, heralding a long weekend ripe for exploration.
Join us as we delve into the enriching experiences of fellow travelers who sought to maximize their May adventures. From immersing in the craftsmanship of Europe’s artisans and enjoying the archeological wonders of Cambodia to basking in the serene beauty of Tahiti—where the only sounds were the whispering wind, gentle waves, and swaying coconut palms—there’s inspiration aplenty.
Each of these journeys was crafted with precision, thanks to the expertise of our WOW List of Trusted Travel Experts. For even more ideas, don’t miss the latest installment of our “Where to Go When” series, and be sure to check out firsthand accounts from other travelers.
Not quite sure where to head this May? Click the button below for personalized assistance in planning your ideal getaway.
Sweden and Denmark: A Regal Experience of Palaces and Gardens
Travelers Tony Ford-Hutchinson and his wife Jane at Drottningholm.
“A business meeting in Helsinki led us to finally explore Sweden and Denmark, two countries that had long been on our list. Jan and Miriam crafted a remarkable itinerary for our time in Stockholm and Copenhagen. In Stockholm, we spent five nights at the Grand Hôtel, which offered breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Our guide, Karin, an expert from the National Museum, enriched our walking tour with her insightful anecdotes.
A standout moment was visiting Drottningholm Palace on Lovön Island, where we enjoyed a private tour of the splendid 18th-century court theater. Our trip concluded with a memorable boat journey through the Stockholm Archipelago aboard the M/Y Merceditas, originally crafted for Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco.
In Copenhagen, our WOW Moment took shape at Tivoli Gardens, the world’s oldest amusement park. Under the guidance of Anne, the gardens’ art consultant, we experienced a behind-the-scenes tour of the historic Pantomime Theatre, led by one of its dancers.
Culinary exploration was also integral to our journey. Miriam’s restaurant bookings offered a mix of high-end and local dining options, with Geranium in Copenhagen standing out. We savored a multi-course tasting menu accompanied by an impressive selection of wines—one bottle, a 1982 Screaming Eagle, priced at a staggering $78,000! Thankfully, the wine pairings came at varied price levels, with even the lowest tier showcasing impressive selections.” —Tony Ford-Hutchinson
Ready for your own WOW journey? Start with our trip questionnaire, accessible via the black button below.
Peru: Adventure and Artisan Encounters
Traveler Anne Dhanda and her daughter Isabella Remor on Mount Vinicunca at 17,000 feet.
“My daughter Isabella and I recently returned from a wonderful mother-daughter trip to Peru, brilliantly planned by our WOW List travel planner, Tom Damon. Arriving in the last week of May, we were greeted with sunny days and perfect temperatures.
Tom paired us with an exceptional guide, Romulo, whose stories of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and Vinicunca made each location come alive. Our quest to discover Peru’s rich textile traditions led us to a community of women weavers, where we learned about the origins of natural dyes and regional patterns. The intricacy of these methods now makes our souvenirs shimmer with newfound vibrancy.
After a few days of acclimatization and shorter hikes, we tackled the one-day trek to Machu Picchu. Its intensity surprised us, but there was no greater thrill than emerging from the jungle, climbing that final staircase—the so-called “gringo killer”—to witness Machu Picchu come into focus for the first time. A moment forever etched in our memories, enhanced by Romulo’s enchanting tales from his upbringing below the city.
Our stay at the Belmond allowed us an early entry to the ruins, ensuring we could return throughout the day when we needed a breather. Cusco, with its rich Incan history, held us captivated. Our experience was so rewarding we’re already discussing our return to Peru!” —Anne Dhanda
Embark on your own WOW adventure by completing our trip questionnaire, reachable via the black button below.
Iceland: Glaciers Without the Crowds
Daren and Sue Tobert on the Sólheimajökull glacial tongue after a three-hour hike.
“After spending two weeks in Europe, we took a six-day stopover in Iceland on our way home. Our travel planner, Mads, curated a fantastic tour highlighting Reykjavik and the west and south of the island.
We reveled in waterfalls, beaches, caves, and glaciers. Our accommodations at the Black Pearl, Hotel Budir, and Hotel Ranga were exceptional. Engaging with Iceland’s history, culture, and stunning landscapes left us deeply enamored, making a return trip likely.
Some highlights of our journey included a self-guided tour around the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, exploring the rift valley at Þingvellir National Park, and sampling quirky local foods with our knowledgeable guide, Nori—who knew rye bread ice cream was a thing? Our WOW moment arrived while hiking on the Sólheimajökull glacier, where we experienced the raw beauty of nature and marveled at the crevasses and glacial moulins.” —Susan Tobert
Begin your own WOW Icelandic adventure with our trip questionnaire, accessible via the black button below.
Switzerland: Outdoor Thrills Await
Andy Shafran and family spelling OHIO during a private kayak trip on Lake Brienz.
“Switzerland charmed us with its stunning landscapes during our active hiking, kayaking, and paragliding adventure, planned to celebrate our children’s graduations. Nina and her capable staff arranged an itinerary that balanced experiences with ease of travel. We soaked in two days at Zurich and Rhine Falls, followed by three days in Grindelwald, and three more in Lucerne.
Hiking was our primary focus, beginning with a guided trek up Mt. Grindelwald First, featuring a gondola ride to the top and a thrilling Trottibike ride back down—something we highly recommend. We also ventured to Jungfrau, though it was a splurge, the breathtaking Alpine experience made it worthwhile. Other highlights included the Rhine Falls, the Aare Gorge hike, a kayaking adventure on Lake Brienz, and a full-day peak-to-peak hike on Mt. Rigi, where we enjoyed lunch amid incredible mountainous vistas.
All three hotels we stayed at were distinct in character and ideally situated, boasting fun quirks, like the private funicular from Lake Lucerne to the elegant Art Deco Hotel Montana.” —Andy Shafran
Would you like to craft your own WOW Swiss journey? Begin with our trip questionnaire below.
Malta: Unveiling History and Culture
Malta’s dramatic Blue Grotto on the southern coast. Photo: Shutterstock
“During our stay in the enchanting walled city of Mdina, we lodged at the Xara Palace, allowing us to free wander its serene streets after dark, feeling as though we were the only inhabitants.
Damon ensured we had a driver and guide for our week in Malta, a crucial element considering our packed itinerary. Our guide, Pierre, stood out as the best we’ve ever encountered, showcasing Malta’s intricate military history, architecture, and art with skillful storytelling. We’d have gained far less from our trip without his insights.
The culinary scene was delightful, featuring unique experiences like dining in an olive grove with a traditional instrument maker’s presentation and enjoying a picnic on the beach in Gozo. Damon’s local connections made these exceptional moments possible.” —Samantha Michaels
Begin your own WOW Maltese exploration with our trip questionnaire, accessible via the black button below.
Thailand: Culinary Delights and Cultural Experiences
Tony Ford-Hutchinson and wife Jane in Bangkok, with Wat Arun aglow in the background.
“A brief two-day board meeting in Bangkok opened the door to an extended two-week excursion throughout Thailand, curated by Dan. After some deliberation, we settled on starting in Bangkok before venturing to Northern Thailand.
We explored Bangkok’s intricate waterways via a private longboat and took a day trip to Ayutthaya, the ancient Siamese capital. Culinary highlights included a food tour through Chinatown and a cooking course for Jane while I was in meetings. Dining at top-ranked restaurants Gaggan and Le Du was an absolute treat.
Next, we flew to Chiang Mai, where the luxurious 137 Pillars House awaited us. With electric tuk-tuks, night markets, and bamboo rafting, we truly immersed ourselves in local culture. We even arranged a visit to Studio Naenna to learn from Patricia Cheeseman about Northern Thailand’s famed textile weaving—culminating in a hands-on indigo dyeing experience.
Our road trip to Chiang Rai was extraordinary. We followed the Myanmar border and engaged with the Lahu hill tribe, even cooking lunch with them. Our accommodation at Pa Sak Tong, a private villa at off-season rates, treated us to luxurious solitude amid sprawling grounds. While we relished our villa, our excursion to the Golden Triangle allowed us to step across borders into Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand in one day. Dining at Locus Native Food Lab was another highlight, merely a short stroll from the estate.” —Tony Ford-Hutchinson
Start shaping your own WOW Thai adventure through our trip questionnaire, available via the black button below.
Turkey: Nature and Culture Combined
Tina Hunt and family on the rooftop of Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar.
“For those who appreciate diverse cultures, delicious food, and rich history, Turkey is a treasure trove waiting to be explored! We began with a three-day gulet cruise aboard the Prima Donna, followed by a whirlwind tour of Ephesus, which is a must-see for history buffs. Cappadocia offered us pure joy with its fairy-tale landscapes and cave churches, allowing for short hikes and an unforgettable sunrise balloon ride over the surreal terrain.
Our final three nights were spent in Istanbul, a city we initially thought we would overlook but were charmed by. While it boasts vast urban sprawl, the vibrant energy attracted us, particularly with our guide Cenk’s sharp wit and deep affection for the city. Highlights included a delightful foodie tour featuring local bites and sweets.
Our WOW Moment was particularly memorable—on the roof of the Grand Bazaar, it felt like a scene from a film. With each unique stop along the way, we found ourselves wishing we had more time to immerse ourselves in all Turkey has to offer.” —Tina Hunt
To start crafting your own WOW Turkey adventure, fill out our trip questionnaire below.
France: Tennis and Normandy’s Historic Beaches
Marsha Friedli and her husband at the French Open.
“Magnificent! That’s how I would describe our experiences arranged by Jennifer. We wanted to visit Normandy’s beaches, where my father-in-law served during WWII, before enjoying the bustle of Paris and the excitement of Roland-Garros. Along the way, we explored Giverny and the Bayeux tapestry museum. Our stay at Château La Chenevière was utterly charming.
Although rain fell in Paris, when we visited Roland-Garros, we were fantastic—our seats were under cover with excellent transport organized by Jennifer. The experience was truly a dream come true.” —Marsha Friedli
Start your own WOW French journey by completing our trip questionnaire, accessible via the black button below.
Budapest, Prague, and Vienna: Rich Histories Await
Yehuda and Tammy Schmidt during their private Danube cruise in Budapest.
“We are still basking in the glow of our recent Eastern European adventure. Gwen designed the trip of a lifetime! Beginning in Budapest, we were captivated by its rich history. Our WOW Moment—an evening wine tasting while gliding down the Danube under the twinkling lights of Budapest’s Parliament—was absolutely magical.
After a scenic train ride to Vienna, we marveled at the stunning architecture, explored the Belvedere Palace and its impressive art collection, and were moved by the Shoah Wall of Names, accompanied by a string quartet. We then journeyed to storybook Prague where behind-the-scenes tours revealed the city’s charm. Our private guide, Kamila, helped us connect emotionally with Czech history while touring Terezin and Lidice, enhancing our understanding of their WWII impact. She skillfully navigated our experience, ensuring we visited all must-see sites at the right moments.” —Tammy and Yehuda Schmidt
To start your own WOW Eastern European adventure, fill out our trip questionnaire, reachable via the black button below.
Japan: Experiencing Culture Beyond the Cherry Blossoms
Onsen ryokan are traditional inns with hot springs bathing. Photo: Shutterstock
“Our family of six, ranging from mom and dad to four twenty-somethings, just returned from a remarkable 16-day journey in Japan, thanks to Jason, a colleague of Scott. Jason tailored a trip that perfectly matched our family’s interests. Starting in Tokyo, our guide Narumi exceeded expectations, even suggesting we “off itinerary” attend the Kanda Myojin Shrine Parade—a vibrant celebration of local heritage.
Major sites were explored, and our culinary adventures included a cooking class with a celebrated chef, engaging with a sword maker, and joining a sake tasting session. Next, we ventured to Kanazawa to witness UNESCO World Heritage Sites, enjoying our stay at an onsen ryokan—an authentic experience that outshone conventional hotels. Kyoto dazzled us with temples boasting breathtaking views, a bamboo forest, and the serenity of ancient gardens. We even enjoyed a lively Taiko drum class and were moved by our Zen Buddhism experience.
A highly anticipated stop was Hiroshima, which left a profound impact, celebrating resilience amid tragedy. Naoshima, Jason’s suggestion, was an artistic haven, and we could have easily spent several more days immersed in its beauty.” —Andy Kaplan
Ready to embark on your own WOW Japanese journey? Complete our trip questionnaire via the black button below.
The Balkans: Coastal Beauty and Rich Histories Come to Life
Mostar Bridge in Bosnia and Herzegovina, traveler Jeannie Mullen’s “most pleasant surprise of the trip.” Photo: Shutterstock
“Attempting to summarize a 28-day solo journey across five countries within the Balkans feels virtually impossible. Ala and Arina meticulously attended to every detail, providing me with an array of varied options that perfectly aligned with my interests.
My itinerary encompassed five of the six Balkan countries once known as Yugoslavia, each possessing its own captivating identity and rich history. Local guides, deeply rooted in their hometowns, shared their stories, transforming the experience into something truly special. Milan, my guide in Belgrade, was an art history professor and opera singer who graciously presented me with a signed copy of his newly published book.
Discovering Old Town Ljubljana was a delightful blend of charm, culture, and local shopping. A day trip to Lake Bled offered picturesque scenery, while Croatia dazzled with its diverse culinary experiences, highlighted by delightful encounters like truffle hunting with local youngsters and enjoying fresh seafood prepared by a local farmer.
In Belgrade, I dug deep into the nation’s tumultuous history, visiting notable sites with an academically-inclined guide. Bosnia and Herzegovina was an unexpected gem, where my guide, Muhammad, highlighted the city of Sarajevo’s vibrant multicultural atmosphere alongside its complex past.
Montenegro’s stunning coastline felt almost cinematic; I explored hidden WWII submarine tunnels and traversed the serpentine paths leading to the historic royal capital of Cetinje. Despite initial concerns about political unrest upon departure, Arina reassured me of the tranquility present on the ground, a decision I’m immensely pleased I followed.” —Jeannie Mullen
Take the first step towards your own WOW Balkan adventure by completing our trip questionnaire below.
Norway: Fjords and Arctic Adventures Await
On a wing and a prayer, Norwegian wind in her hair—traveler Susan Freeman soars on the fjord swing at Trandal.
“We just completed a 25-day journey through Scandinavia, organized by Torunn. I must say, Norway ranks as the most stunning country I’ve ever encountered, enchanting travelers with its natural beauty and well-functioning infrastructure.
Our time was divided between Oslo, Bergen, and the picturesque fjord regions, concluding with several nights just beyond the Arctic Circle. We explored ancient stave churches on a romantic route, dined with a farmer and his wife in a summer cabin, and embarked on thrilling sea kayaking adventures.
One of the most unique experiences was visiting a former trading lodge on a remote island in the Arctic Circle. The lodge is run by the first Norwegian woman to summit Everest, along with the highest peaks on each continent. Meeting her and hearing her stories was a highlight among many.” —Susan Freeman
Ready to discover your own WOW Norwegian adventure? Begin with our trip questionnaire below.
France: Markets and Local Charm Await
The Seine glows at night in Paris. Photo: Shutterstock
“Our adventure began in Southern France, where we stayed at Hôtel du Cap—a reservation I couldn’t have made without Philip’s team. We spent four glorious days cruising through Cannes, Nice, and Monaco, each destination uniquely captivating. A highlight included our hands-on glassblowing experience and dining in some of the area’s finest eateries.
Following our stay in the south, we headed to Aix-en-Provence, where we were treated to three nights at the beautiful Villa Gallici, affordably located just above town. Our tours through Provence included stops at local markets and the picturesque towns of Cucuron and St. Remy. Our guides helped us differentiate between the touristy spots and those favored by locals, revealing the dynamic nature of Provençal life.
A three-hour train ride whisked us back to Paris, an efficient transition that saved us ample time. Our final night was capped off with a fabulous experience arranged by Wendy—a nighttime tour of the city’s monuments in an open-top deux-chevaux, providing breathtaking views of Parisian landmarks illuminated against the night sky.” —Larry Bridge
Interested in starting your own WOW French journey? Complete our trip questionnaire via the black button below.
Exploring Italy’s Countryside: Smart Planning for a Memorable Trip
Tuscany is filled with artisans as well as vineyards. Photo: Shutterstock
“Our journey through Umbria and Tuscany centered on food, wine, and culture. We began in the charming Umbrian town of Montefalco, where Maria booked us a delightful hotel and arranged dinner for our first evening. The following day, we enjoyed a magical truffle hunting expedition followed by an unforgettable meal shared with a gracious family.
Yet what truly defined our experience was our WOW Moment—meeting Marta Cucchia, the great-granddaughter of the founder of the historic textile workshops. She guided us through the art of weaving on 15th-century looms, igniting a passion for this intricate craft.
This remarkable experience paved the way for countless encounters—artisans, wine stewards, cheese makers, and local cooks welcoming us into their worlds. Even amid the increasing tourist crowds, we managed to forge private pathways into each activity.
A particularly unexpected highlight was a last-minute opportunity introduced by Maria to attend an opera in Parma. My husband, typically not an opera fan, later claimed it was among the best experiences of our trip, a glowing testament to our adventure.” —Lynne Golomb
Prepare for your own WOW Italian journey by completing our trip questionnaire, accessible below.
Egypt: An Early-Bird Adventure at the Pyramids
Travelers Jeff and Linda Stengel in Cairo.
“Jim orchestrated a remarkable Egyptian adventure that beautifully balanced history with modern comforts. Our expert guide, an Egyptologist, skillfully navigated us through the Ancient wonders while deftly avoiding the crowds.
At the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), still soft-launching, we were the first visitors, enjoying an intimate experience of the exhibits. Our most memorable moment came with sunrise at Giza, entering through the back gate just as the vendors set up, creating a surreal atmosphere alongside a procession of camels arriving at the historic plateau. Standing in the shadow of the Sphinx, we absorbed the stories of its creation without throngs of tourists around.
Our subsequent flight to Aswan included a stop at Abu Simbel before embarking on the Oberoi Zahara for a Nile cruise. By the time we reached Luxor, temperatures soared to unusual highs—around 115 degrees. Thanks to Jim’s meticulous arrangements, our private guide ensured we avoided the midday heat, keeping us comfortable throughout our explorations.
Throughout our travels, we felt safe and secure, thanks to Jim’s expertly crafted arrangements, which provided flexibility to adapt to any changing conditions.” —Jeff Stengel
Commence your own WOW Egyptian journey by completing our trip questionnaire, available via the black button below.
Bolivia & Chile: Nature and Cultural Immersion
Bolivia’s Uyuni salt flats are a great place for stargazing. Photo: Shutterstock
“Mark designed an incredible 14-day adventure that catered to our varied interests in hiking, food, and photography. Our fantastic drivers ensured seamless travel, allowing us to pause for animal sightings—foxes, llamas, vicunas, and flamingos alike—while making impromptu stops for quick photographic opportunities.
We embraced traditional indigenous life through culinary experiences at Tarabuco Market, where we visited master weavers and enjoyed a cooking session in a community hacienda, learning to prepare traditional dishes that we intend to recreate at home.
The Uyuni salt flats provided breathtaking visuals—sharing a lovely lunch beside a serene lagoon where flamingos frolicked. We marveled at the stunning reflections during sunset, followed by an enchanting stargazing session under a brilliant sky.” —Peggy Murphy
To begin crafting your own WOW adventure in Bolivia & Chile, complete our trip questionnaire, found below.
Uzbekistan: High-Speed Adventures Along the Silk Road
“Eye-catching” mosques and minarets are around every corner in Bukhara. Photo: Shutterstock
“After much anticipation and planning that spanned the pandemic, we finally set out for Uzbekistan. Our initial stop was Khiva—an extraordinary living museum dotted with beautifully preserved architecture, a joy to explore as its residents continue to inhabit the city.
Next, we found ourselves in Bukhara, with our accommodations conveniently located in the old town center. We reveled in exploring its many sights, enjoying leisurely breaks while sipping green tea in quaint caravanserais. A pivotal WOW Moment arrived when we attended an Uzbek wedding ceremony, partaking in the singing, dancing, and trying on traditional attire. It was such a wonderful introduction into the warmth of Uzbek culture!
High-speed trains whisked us onto Samarkand—another masterpiece along the Silk Road, renowned for Registan Square and the tomb of Tamarlane. Following a day trip to Shahrisabz, we returned to Tashkent. A vibrant city with modern amenities, it also boasts superb food. Our lasting memory includes witnessing a vibrant performance of The Lion King in Uzbek while basking under a color-changing fountain backdrop. This engaging journey opened our eyes to the mountains and opportunities beyond.” —Tony and Jane Ford-Hutchinson
To start your own WOW trip in Uzbekistan, complete our trip questionnaire, available via the black button below.
Sicily: Culinary and Cultural Delights
Sicily’s Mt. Etna is the highest Mediterranean island mountain. Photo: Shutterstock
“Our two-week adventure in Sicily commenced in the east around Noto and continued in the west near Menfi. Our first week was rich in culture, history, and culinary delights, guided expertly by Matteo, who kept our daily activities close-knit to minimize travel times.
One highlight was a culinary adventure with a chef in Siracusa, who led us through the local market, followed by an engaging and interactive cooking lesson at his restaurant. We also ventured into the countryside to an organic family farm, savored cooking delights prepared from fresh ingredients, and enjoyed captivating discussions with the farmer translated by our guide.
In the second week, we explored historic sites in the west, including the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, Trapani, and the charming hilltop village of Salemi. We ensured downtime to relax; the only spot that felt crowded was the temples. Each stop delivered mind-blowing history, unparalleled beauty, and lasting memories.” —Dana Perry
Ready to start your own WOW Sicilian journey? Complete our trip questionnaire via the black button below.
Greece: Local Experiences and Island Culture
Karrie Evans and family on a private catamaran cruise in Santorini.
“Working with Jacoline made our trip to Greece an unforgettable experience. Covering Athens, Hydra, and Santorini, she orchestrated a memory-filled itinerary that intricately wove in our preferences. With five adults involved, everyone had their highlights, showcasing her expertise.
We were privileged to partake in unique experiences, from feasting on a family farm to crafting private wine tours, archaeological site explorations, pottery classes, and hands-on cooking lessons revealing the wonders of Greek cuisine.
Our stay on Hydra, an unspoiled gem, felt like a serene sanctuary. There are no cars, creating an atmosphere of blissful tranquility. After our peaceful retreat, we ended our adventure in Santorini, planning an action-packed finale involving vineyard visits paired with a private catamaran sunset cruise.
Now I truly understand the allure of Santorini sunsets!” —Karrie Evans
To begin crafting your own WOW Greek experience, complete our trip questionnaire below.
New Zealand: Mild Adventures Await in Nature
Epic scenery in Milford Sound. Photo: Shutterstock
“Traveling with a group ranging in age from 13 to 80 was a challenge, yet Jean-Michel navigated it brilliantly with activities suited for everyone. With only nine days at our disposal, we focused on the captivating west coast of New Zealand’s South Island.
Beginning at scenic Te Anau, we enjoyed our scenic lodging while hiking, fishing, and cruising Milford Sound. The jaw-dropping vistas along the way captivated us at every turn! Our adventure led us to Queenstown, where we indulged in wine exploration amidst the serene Central Otago region, while my daughter took a leap of faith bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge—an adventure of a lifetime!
The charming atmosphere of Queenstown, with its walking trails and lush gardens, offered opportunities to embrace nature. In Makarora, we connected with the owners of Wild Earth Lodge, giving us heartwarming hospitality paired with delightful meals while we explored stunning trails leading to the Blue Pools. Our most exhilarating day featured a helicopter tour over Mt. Aspiring National Park alongside thrilling jet boating on the Wilkin River back down.” —Alana Jacobson
Are you ready to begin your own WOW New Zealand adventure? Start with our trip questionnaire below.
Italy: Exploring Puglia’s Culinary Delights
The Schoenfeld and Silverman friends biking in Puglia.
“One of the highlights from our leisurely week in Puglia was our adventure biking and making burrata. As we pedaled past vibrant fields of poppies and lush landscapes along quiet roads, the outfitter provided both e-bikes and a support van, ensuring a delightful experience gliding through this charming region.
Our route brought us to Itria Bonta, an organic dairy farm. There, we witnessed the owner crafting fresh mozzarella, stretching and stuffing it with stracciatella to create delectable burrata. We even lent a hand! Our afternoon culminated in a hearty feast of cheeses, bread, cured meats, olives, and local wine—everything but the water and salt sourced from the farm itself.” —Barbara Schoenfeld
Begin planning your own WOW trip to Puglia by completing our trip questionnaire available below.
Morocco: Cultural Exploration and Natural Beauty
Camel trek through the Sahara Desert, Morocco. Photo: Traveler Geri Krauss
“My husband and I have just returned from a captivating journey through Morocco, expertly crafted by Michael. From the start, our guide accompanied us throughout the two-week trip, combining his deep knowledge of the country’s culture with genuine kindness and thoughtfulness for our experience.
Covering a vast expanse—from Marrakesh and Fes to the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara desert—this adventure treated us to long drives through breathtaking landscapes without losing its charm. Each hotel Michael recommended offered a unique ambiance, whether riads in the cities, kasbahs in the mountains, or tents in the desert. Experiences like cooking classes and intimate dinners—such as one with a university professor discussing Sufism—were enriching.
Wendy created one particular WOW Moment—a camel ride into the dunes at sunset, accompanied by hors d’oeuvres and champagne. It was a truly unforgettable experience!” —Geri Krauss
To begin imagining your own WOW Moroccan adventure, initiate your trip questionnaire below.
Cambodia and Laos: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
Jeannie Mullen at the Mandalao Elephant Sanctuary near Luang Prabang, Laos.
“With some last-minute guidance from Wendy, I embarked on a whirlwind trip through Southeast Asia that turned out to be a dream come true. My visit to UNESCO sites was unprecedented; Siem Reap was the centerpiece of my adventure, where witnessing sunrise at Angkor Wat filled me with awe. Special thanks to Silen, my guide, who navigated us through the temples with meticulous attention to timing, allowing for smooth experiences amidst the heat.
The pinnacle of my adventure came while flying by helicopter to the more remote site of Preah Vihear—also home to a lesser-visited temple complex, where I walked in silence alongside renowned archeologist Po-Thai Khan. Each moment among the ancient stones felt surreal, far removed from tourist crowds, creating an unforgettable imprint on my heart.” —Jeannie Mullen
To begin shaping your own WOW adventure through Southeast Asia, complete our trip questionnaire below.
Spain: A Taste of Flamenco and Culinary Riches
Ken and Jeryl Rempell with guide, David, in Besalu, touring Spain’s south and east.
“Wendy introduced us to Iván, an expert on Southern Spain who truly understood our desire for a culturally rich experience. Listening closely to our wishes for history, architecture, and the picturesque, he carefully crafted an exhilarating itinerary that included both well-known and obscure delights.
With boundless energy, we took in Madrid, Toledo, Cordoba, Seville, Granada, Barcelona, Figueres, Besalu, and Gerona. Every guide was exceptional—knowledgeable, warm, and responsive. We enjoyed spectacular flamenco shows, visits to cathedral wonders, tapas bars, and Gaudí’s breathtaking architectural feats, all forming a kaleidoscope of experiences we cherished.
We savored every moment surrounded by the myriad of flavors, sights, and stories, leaving Spain with hearts full of fantastic memories.” —Kenneth Rempell
Intrigued about starting your own WOW Spanish voyage? Engage with our trip questionnaire below.
The Tahitian Islands: Serenity Awaits
“This small island stop helped us relax, reset and realize what truly is Tahitian beauty and calm.” Photo: Traveler Michael Ruma
“Our Tahitian adventure encompassed three enchanting islands, beginning with Vahine Island Resort and Spa. This intimate, nine-acre paradise offered the perfect setting to unwind; the only sounds were the soothing wind, gentle waves, and rustling coconut palms. With simple yet delectable prix fixe dinners served, we relished our private haven as we watched sunsets from the dock, accompanied by baby blacktip reef sharks swimming below.
Bora Bora followed, an island famous for its beauty. Though more populated, the charm of Mount Otemanu was undiminished. Our overwater bungalow provided the ultimate luxury, with easy access to refreshingly warm lagoon waters, where we enjoyed diving adventures that led to serene encounters with graceful mantas.
The grand finale of our journey was a stay at the exquisite Brando in Tetiaroa, where impeccable service and stunning natural beauty left a lasting impression. While I had hesitated to travel so far for a beach vacation, Tahiti’s vibrant waters, tranquil days, and unique island vibes will forever be etched in my memory.” —Michael Ruma
Are you ready to start your own WOW Tahitian escape? Fill out our trip questionnaire below.
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