Family, Friends, and the Great Outdoors

Spring Into The Outdoors With Friends and Family

At this time of year, we start yearning to get out of town and seek adventure elsewhere. Spring is one of the most popular times to get everyone together for a break—whether it’s to admire the cherry blossoms in Japan or Washington or go whitewater rafting in Oregon or the Yukon.

Outdoor adventure remains a top draw for families and couples this year, especially trips that offer a blend of active and soft adventure with a sumptuous place to sleep at night. Working with an experienced outdoor outfitter takes all the pressure off planning a great trip, which is why I’m seeing more travelers take this route.

If you want to stay close to home, consider Utah Luxury Tours for a breathtaking tour of the state’s “mighty five” in the red rock beauty of the Southwest: Canyonlands, Arches, Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Capitol Reef national parks.

For many families, a mother-daughter getaway is a rite of passage, and I like what we’re seeing as part of the new Women’s adventures from Backroads – exploring the Amalfi Coast on foot or wandering the paths past the castles and gardens in England’s Cotswold’s. Sign me up, Mom!

Or consider G Adventures‘ new Geluxe guided tours, which offer insider access to lesser-known corners of Japan, Cambodia, and Mexico, comfortable accommodations, and all levels of active and easy adventure.

If you love a long-haul escape, ask a True North Advisor about the luxury walk operators in Australia and New Zealand. It’s a chance to trek through lush forests or outback deserts and see wildlife you won’t find anywhere else on the planet. In New Zealand, spend four days and three nights traversing the renowned Milford Track. (At night, you’ll be taken care of and well-fed in private lodges.)

Or consider walking on rainforest trails between five-star lodges in Queensland, Australia. There’ll be “shrimp on the barbie” (and so much more) waiting for you at the end of each day.

If getting closer to wildlife (safely!) sounds fun, then look at what’s available at Natural Habitat Tours. Affiliated with the World Wildlife Fund, Nat Hab has all the environmental and animal credibility you could ask for. A nice bonus: it ensures all guests get closer to nature and still enjoy the peace and seclusion of remote camps and luxury lodges. From polar bear tours in northern Manitoba, Canada, to grizzly safaris in Alaska and Galapagos sailings in the Pacific—it’s hard to surpass the varied offerings of this longtime tour operator.

Ask us to steer you in the right direction; We’ve got a lock on the best tour operators for small group departures and privately guided getaways.

Cycling, hiking, surfing or sailing – there’s an outdoor adventure for every age and ability