Explore More Travel Co.| Lake Norman and Charlotte area's premier luxury travel agency

Why Cruises Are Perfect for Group Travel

wpx_explorem — Wed, 27 May 2026 18:34:27 +0000

Why Cruises Are Perfect for Group Travel | Explore More Travel

Why Cruises Are Perfect for Group Travel

A travel advisor's take on why luxury ship life works so well for groups - and what we learned on our third Wander Women sailing.

Jen Campbell Boles Founder & CEO, Explore More · team@exploremoretravelco.com

We sat across from each other at lunch, not talking. She had her book. I had my phone. Minutes passed. She turned a page. I scrolled. Neither of us looked up. Neither of us reached for conversation. We just sat there together in complete silence. No, we weren't fighting. We later commented that we were like an old married couple - completely comfortable doing our own thing at the same table. And that was the whole point.

This was our third Wander Women trip - the first two were on river cruises, which are smaller and more intimate by nature. Explora Journeys is on the smaller side of ocean cruises, so it still felt intimate, but different. If you want the full picture on why Explora is one of my favorite cruise lines to sell, I've written detailed posts about the dining, design, and culture onboard and what makes it unique in the luxury cruise category. But the reason we keep choosing ships for this group is the same: cruises offer freedom. The ability for women who want to explore together to break into smaller groups in ports, to pursue different interests, to opt in rather than opt out of shared activities. The ship becomes the gathering place, but it's also big enough that you're never forced to be together.

Want to know what we did in each port? Last week's post covered the excursions, the stops, and what made this Mediterranean itinerary special. Read it here: Mediterranean Cruise: Five Regions to Help You Choose Your Next Trip

Why the Ship Is the Secret

Think about every other group travel scenario. A land-based trip split across multiple cities: you're in a van or bus with the same people most of the day, eating every meal together, staying in different hotels, always checking out and checking in, always managing logistics together, always negotiating which restaurant to eat at.

A cruise flips that. Everyone boards the same ship, everyone knows it's a shared space, and everyone also understands that the ship is big enough for different circles to exist. You can have dinner with the whole group on designated nights, and then other nights you grab cocktails with a subset of people, or you have dinner wherever you choose in that moment. No negotiation. No hurt feelings. It's just... understood. And if you're wandering the ship between activities, you're likely to bump into someone from your group or a new friend you made onboard.

Advisor Insight

Group travel struggles when people feel obligated to be together all the time. The best group trips are the ones where people can opt in to togetherness rather than opt out of it. Cruises do this naturally. The ship is a meeting point, not a cage.

On Doing Your Own Thing

One morning, everyone was off the ship at a port I'd visited last summer, so I didn't need as much time exploring. I went to the Explora Lounge and caught up on work.

But that moment at lunch - sitting across from another Wander Woman, neither of us talking, both of us exactly where we wanted to be - that's the real magic of sailing with a group. And honestly, that might be why you see a lot of older people on luxury cruises. They've figured out something younger travelers are still learning: you can be close to people and also have your own space. Both things at once. No compromise required.

On our one sea day, the ship had a Greek food lunch at Emporium Marketplace - the ship's casual dining venue - which made me very happy, because Greece is my happy place and Greek food is a big reason why. There was trivia happening in one venue, entertainment in another. Our group created their own fun by bringing mahjong tiles and finding others who wanted to play.

Sea days and port mornings - working in the lounge, Greek food at Emporium, mahjong with new friends.

The Sky Bar became our unofficial gathering spot.

On the Cocktail Research

Our team at Explore More and I took our roles very seriously this sailing. We did thorough research of the ship's cocktail menu. It's hard work, but somebody has to do it. After my last Explora Journeys sailing, the Pomberry Spritz was my favorite. This time, I discovered the Pasion, which is only available at one venue onboard, and then I found the Stand By Me.

Watch on Instagram

Serious Cocktail Research at Sea

The Pomberry Spritz, the Pasion, and the Stand By Me. Three favorite discoveries, one sailing.

The research team. Documentation of serious work.

On Dining and Flexibility

Our group bookended the trip with dinner reservations - Sakura on the first night and Marble & Co steakhouse on the last night. Everything in between was flexible. You can dine at Emporium Marketplace, the ship's casual dining venue that doesn't require a reservation, or book one of several specialty restaurants. The beauty of Explora is that specialty dining is included - you don't pay extra for the experience. Some nights, a few of us would end up at the same specialty restaurant. Other nights, guests who wanted more flexibility could dine at Emporium. It felt organic, not forced.

Bookended dinners - structure with flexibility built in.

On Onboard Energy

There are trivia competitions, yoga, fitness classes, cooking demonstrations. Our group brought mahjong tiles and claimed a corner of the lounge, which is exactly how it should work. Not every activity feels right for every person, and the ship is big enough that you don't feel bad skipping the ones that don't call to you. I enjoyed more entertainment than I had on previous Explora sailings, and at one point the singer of the house band pulled me on stage to dance - which was not on my bucket list, but I am not complaining.

Mahjong tiles and trivia nights. People found their people.

Entertainment that doesn't feel forced. You show up when it calls to you.

What This Means for Your Group

If you've ever tried to organize a group trip on land, you know the challenge: someone wants to explore the museum, someone wants to hike, someone wants to nap. Every decision becomes a negotiation. By dinner, you've usually disappointed at least half the group, and nobody is fully relaxed.

A cruise solves this. The ship becomes the gathering place, the group connector, and the escape hatch all at once. You have guaranteed touchpoints - breakfast, dinner, the Sky Bar at sunset. You also have complete freedom to do your own thing in between. That combination is rare, and it works.

Group moments throughout the ship.

Planning Note

If you're thinking about a group trip - whether it's a family reunion, friends who haven't been together in years, or a professional group wanting to bond - consider a cruise. Book first and last dinner together, make a few group reservations ahead of time, and let people opt in to everything else. People relax more when they're not obligated to be together every second of every day.

Explora Journeys works especially well for this because the ship is small enough that you'll see familiar faces everywhere, but the experience is luxurious enough that people don't feel like they're vacationing in a resort town. You're traveling together, but you're also traveling your own way. That's the sweet spot for group travel.

This was our third Wander Women sailing, and we already have another one scheduled for next year. Not on Explora, but the principle stays the same: we choose ships because they give us the structure to be together without the obligation to be together all the time. That's the real value of sailing for groups.

This ship knows how to hold a group.

Ready to Plan a Group Sailing?

Group travel on Explora Journeys - whether for friends, family, or an organization you care about - is something we specialize in. We handle all the logistics, make the strategic reservations, and let everyone do their own thing in between. Fill out our trip planning form and let's talk about what a group sailing could look like for you.

Start Planning Your Group Trip

Whether it's a Wander Women sailing or a custom group experience, we'll design it around how your group actually travels.

Start Planning

The post Why Cruises Are Perfect for Group Travel appeared first on Explore More Travel Co.| Lake Norman and Charlotte area's premier luxury travel agency.

Five Mediterranean Experiences to Help You Choose Your Next Trip

wpx_explorem — Wed, 20 May 2026 17:10:12 +0000

Five Mediterranean Experiences | Explore More Travel

Five Mediterranean Experiences to Help You Choose Your Next Trip

If you're deciding where to focus your Mediterranean time, discover how one Explora Journeys sailing offers valuable perspective on five distinct regions.

Jen Campbell Boles Founder & CEO, Explore More · team@exploremoretravelco.com

If you're deciding where to focus your Mediterranean time, here's what I learned on a recent Explora Journeys sailing with Wander Women: you can experience five distinctly different regions in eight days. We boarded in Athens and disembarked in Venice, visiting the Cyclades, Dodecanese, Ionian Islands, coastal Croatia, and inland Croatia. For anyone who isn't sure which region to return to for a deeper dive, this kind of itinerary offers valuable perspective.

I know the Mediterranean well. I have my favorites. But one of the most useful travel strategies is this: if you can't decide between multiple regions, a regional sailing lets you sample five different worlds in a single trip. Then you know where to focus your next trip - whether that's a land-based itinerary focused on one region, or another Explora sailing to explore different ports.

Already read about the ship experience? I've written detailed posts about life onboard Explora - from the dining, design, and culture onboard to what makes it unique in the luxury cruise category. This post focuses on the destinations themselves and how to use a regional sailing to help you decide where to return for a deeper dive. Head back to those posts if you want the full picture on why Explora is one of my favorite cruise lines to sell.

Paros: The Greece Everyone Envisions

We tendered into Paros on Day 2. Tenders can take longer depending on timing, and we had a bit of a wait. A few of us visited the Church of a Hundred Doors at the port first, but most of our time was spent in town shopping for hats. We all came away with new ones. I was actually already wearing a Greece hat from a previous trip and my new one didn't match my outfit, so you'll see it in later photos as you scroll!

I had planned a Byzantine Road hike with some of the women, but the tender timing ate into our morning. By the time we finished the hike, my original plan - a hotel site visit on the island - had become too complicated to manage. My phone was dying from a charging issue the night before, logistics were tangled, and frankly, it was easier to stay with the group.

The Byzantine Road hike with the group

We headed to Noussá, a fishing village on the other side of Paros that I'd visited a couple of years ago with my family. We had a long lunch on the water, watching fishing boats come and go, then walked around town and visited a beach before heading back to the ship. It wasn't what I'd planned. It was better.

The fishing village of Noussá with fresh seafood lunch overlooking the harbor

The Venetian fortress overlooks Noussá's harbor, where fishing is still part of daily life

The iconic Cycladic architecture of Paros

Advisor Insight

Paros is what most travelers imagine when they picture Greece - white buildings with blue shutters, whitewashed sidewalks, that iconic Mediterranean village feel. If that's your dream, this is your destination. What happened on Paros for us was simple: we had a plan, the plan fell apart, and we adapted. That's travel.

Rhodes: Greek with Turkish Influence

By Wednesday (Day 3), I needed to stay on the ship for a few hours. My travel schedule is picking up, which means I'm working while I travel. I had a newsletter to finish and emails to catch up on. Rhodes is also somewhere I'd been before - I'd sailed Crystal Cruises here last summer - so I booked a half-day excursion through Explora while the rest of the group did full-day tours.

Our small group visited villages, walked chocklakia mosaic sidewalks (the traditional pebble designs), stepped inside an 85-year-old woman's traditional house, toured a ceramic workshop, and took in panoramic views from the hilltops. It was cultural immersion without being rushed - exactly what a half-day tour should feel like.

What struck me most was how different Rhodes feels from Paros. Same country, completely different atmosphere. You can see Turkey from Rhodes. The architecture reflects centuries of Ottoman influence. The light is different. Even the landscape itself feels distinct from the Cyclades.

My new Paros hat gets its first outing in Rhodes - hand-laid chochlakia mosaics show the Byzantine and Ottoman influences that shaped the island

Byzantine traditions in ceramics and village life reveal Rhodes' layered history

Corfu: Where Greece Meets Italy

Day 4 was a sea day - our sailing day to Corfu in the Ionian Islands. Day 5 we arrived in Corfu, and this was the day all of us did something together. I hired a private guide and driver for our Wander Women group, and we visited the Monastery of Paleokastritsa, then headed out by boat to explore nearby beaches and caves. After lunch in Corfu town, we did a walking tour of the Old Town.

Even with a coordinated group activity, everyone still did their own thing. Some peeled off early to shop, some finished the full tour and wandered on their own, some took the easy route back to the ship via our driver. That flexibility - being part of a group but not tied to it - is what makes Wander Women trips work on a cruise.

But here's what surprised me about Corfu: it doesn't feel Greek in the way Paros or Rhodes do. The architecture is Italian. If you're sitting on the fence between a Greek island and Italian Riviera, Corfu bridges that gap in a single port.

Corfu's Old Town has the charm of a Mediterranean village with distinctly Italian architecture

The Monastery of Paleokastritsa sits on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Ionian Sea, and the group tour atmosphere makes the experience memorable

Instagram Reel

Corfu Monastery & Caves

Coastal Croatia: Stone, History, and a Different Rhythm

Day 6 brought high winds and rough seas - our planned stop at Hvar was cancelled. We didn't dock until noon, which meant I stayed on the ship for lunch at Sakura, my favorite onboard restaurant (you can only get reservations once a week, but they're open for lunch on port days). Explora provided us with umbrellas, so we were able to explore comfortably. Being on a cruise means so much is taken care of for you. By afternoon, I tendered ashore to wander Trogir.

I'd been to Trogir before, so I knew exactly what to expect. I ran into some of the Wander Women, grabbed Croatian wine and good company, and took photos that, honestly, turned out well on a gray day. The clouds gave the stone buildings a moody quality that I probably wouldn't have captured in bright sun.

Trogir is what coastal Croatia is really about: narrow stone alleys, medieval buildings pressed together, the sense that you've stepped back in time. It's completely different from the Greek islands - darker stone, narrower streets, more fortress-like. If Paros is sunny and open, Trogir is intimate and layered.

Trogir's medieval charm is visible in every doorway and clock tower. The stone architecture and narrow streets create an entirely different Mediterranean experience

Inland Croatia: Plitvice Waterfalls and a Bavarian Drive

Day 7 was our Explora-organized excursion to Plitvice Lakes National Park - a 2.5-hour drive each way from the port at Rijeka. This is the kind of tour where you truly need a cruise line's security. You're far from the ship, on an ambitious itinerary, and the biggest fear on any port excursion is that you'll be late getting back. On an Explora shore excursion, you know the ship will wait.

Plitvice Lakes is one of those destinations that shows up on every social media feed - the kind of place you save, dream about, and wonder if it could possibly live up to the photos. Somehow, it was even more magical in person.

Unlike most waterfalls, which form through erosion, Plitvice's waterfalls are actually growing. Dissolved calcium carbonate in the water precipitates onto moss, algae, and fallen logs, gradually building up travertine barriers that dam the water and create new cascades. The travertine barriers grow by approximately one centimetre per year, which means the Plitvice you photograph on your visit will look slightly different from the Plitvice your grandchildren will see.

It's a living geological laboratory - a landscape actively building itself. Knowing that changes how you experience it. Every moss-covered barrier, every impossibly turquoise pool, every wooden walkway - it's all part of an ongoing process. The park isn't just beautiful. It's alive.

We took the quickest route through the park, and everywhere we turned looked fake in the best possible way - too perfect to be real, but undeniably there. But the real surprise was the drive itself. The landscape en route to Rijeka felt like we'd left the Mediterranean entirely and landed somewhere in Bavaria - rolling hills, Alpine architecture, even a lunch stop at a restaurant that could have been straight out of the Alps.

My only regret is that we didn't have longer there.

The turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls of Plitvice create a landscape that feels otherworldly

The scale and beauty of Plitvice are impossible to capture in a single photo, and every turn offers a new perspective

Instagram Reel

Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls

Advisor Insight

Here's what Plitvice taught me: a cruise isn't just about visiting ports. It's about accessing experiences that would be logistically complicated on your own. A 2.5-hour drive inland to waterfalls, then back to your ship - that's not something most land-based itineraries can offer. Explora's shore excursions handle the planning, the timing, and the logistics. You just show up and experience it. That peace of mind matters more than most people realize.

So Which Mediterranean Is Yours?

After eight days, I'd experienced five completely different versions of what the Mediterranean can be. Iconic white-washed Greek islands. Turkish-influenced Greek towns. Italian-feeling Ionian villages. Stone-and-history Croatian coastlines. Inland waterfalls that feel like they belong in Bavaria.

The question I hear most - "Which part of the Mediterranean should we visit?" - stops being either-or. It becomes: "Which one called to me most?"

Maybe it was the lunch in Noussá. Maybe it was the monastery bells in Corfu. Maybe it was grabbing Croatian wine and conversation in Trogir. Maybe it was standing in front of Plitvice waterfalls realizing the photos don't even come close.

One Explora sailing showed me all five. Now you have a choice: go deeper on a land-based trip focused on whichever region captured you, or rebook Explora's return itinerary from Venice back to Athens, which visits completely different ports. Some use this trip as a scouting mission for a deeper land-based experience down the line. Some rebook immediately, drawn to the ease and quality of the ship.

Both strategies work. That's the real value of sailing a luxury cruise line that offers regional variety. You're not just visiting ports. You're gathering information about yourself - about what calls to you, what you need from a trip, what kind of traveler you actually are when the logistics are easy enough to get out of the way.

A luxury cruise isn't just about visiting ports. It's about gathering information about where your next deep dive should be.

Planning Note

If you're torn between Mediterranean destinations, consider a regional sailing like this one first. Experience multiple regions without repacking. See where your heart pulls you. Then design your next trip - whether it's back on Explora exploring new ports, or a deep-dive land trip focused on your favorite region. You'll make a better decision because you'll know yourself better. That's worth the investment.

Ready to discover your Mediterranean?

Let's talk about which region calls to you - and how to design a trip that explores it fully.

Start Planning

The post Five Mediterranean Experiences to Help You Choose Your Next Trip appeared first on Explore More Travel Co.| Lake Norman and Charlotte area's premier luxury travel agency.

Safari at Tintswalo: Seeing the Magnificent 7 in One Day

wpx_explorem — Thu, 07 May 2026 02:49:48 +0000

Safari at Tintswalo: The Magnificent 7 in One Day | Explore More Travel

The Day We Saw Everything: Safari at Tintswalo

What it actually takes to see all seven of the Magnificent 7 in a single day - and why the right guide, tracker, and reserve are not optional extras.

Jen Campbell Boles Founder & CEO, Explore More Travel · team@exploremoretravelco.com

A lion is looking directly at me. Not in the direction of the vehicle. At me. We are close enough that I can see his pupils, and he holds the stare for a long moment before looking straight through us and walking past like we are not there at all. My heart is doing something it does not normally do. The boys are perfectly still.

This is what game drives are like when you are in the right place with the right people. Intense in a way that is hard to explain until you are sitting in the middle of it, and then somehow also completely calm.

Up close with a male lion on the Manyeleti reserve - the kind of moment that stays with you

Why Where You Go Matters as Much as What You See

Tintswalo Safari Lodge sits on the Manyeleti Game Reserve - a 23,000-hectare private reserve on the western edge of Kruger National Park, bordered by the Sabi Sand and Timbavati reserves with no fences between any of them. Wildlife roams freely across the entire connected ecosystem, and the reserve itself has just three lodges across more than 200 kilometers of gravel roads. On our game drives we passed almost no other vehicles. Sightings were ours. There was no jockeying for position, no convoy of trucks circling a scene.

What a private reserve gives you that a national park cannot is off-road access. Your guide is not restricted to the roads. When an animal is spotted, you can move across open terrain to get close in a way that is simply not possible in a self-drive park setting. That access changes everything about what you actually experience out there.

Advisor Insight

The reserve you choose is one of the most important decisions in planning a safari, and the difference between a private reserve and a national park goes far beyond the number of vehicles you encounter. Off-road access, exclusive concessions, and guides who can take you exactly where they need to go - these are the conditions that make encounters like ours possible. It is one of the first things I walk clients through when we start planning a trip like this.

In the vehicle, out in the reserve - this is what it looks like

Wise, Rio, and Why the Right Team Changes Everything

Before I arrived at Tintswalo I had already heard about Wise. He is one of the most respected guides in this part of South Africa, and I had specifically requested him for our family through our local supplier. I knew going in that we were in good hands. What I did not know was the story behind the team.

Wise's tracker is Rio - his brother. Rio trained through Wise's own tracker school, a program Wise created specifically to keep the art of tracking alive among young people in his village at a time when modern life offers so many other directions to go. Tracking is an ancient skill that takes years to develop and needs to be preserved. Rio is one of the people carrying it forward.

The guide reads the bush. The tracker reads the ground. Together they see things that nobody else on a game drive could ever find on their own.

Every morning they had coffee and pastries set up for us before we even reached the vehicle. Blankets were folded and stowed. Water bottles were already in place. During the drive, Rio would clear tree limbs out of the path before they hit us, and Wise would anticipate where we needed to be before any of us had worked out why. When our vehicle got stuck deep in the bush - which happens - they had us out without drama and without losing a single moment. When it was time for sundowners, everything was already packed and waiting.

We never had to think about a single logistical thing. We just showed up and paid attention.

Coffee in the bush and hot cocoa on the drive - every detail handled before we thought to ask

Sundowners in the bush - pre-packed every evening without us having to ask

The end of a day on the reserve

Out there with the people you love - not thinking about anything else

Watch the Safari Reels

Ten reels from our time on safari at Tintswalo - from the first morning drive to the Magnificent 7 day to everything in between.

Magnificent 7 Day Morning Drive Wild Dogs The Lions Cheetah Sighting Sundowners Rhino Up Close Bush Coffee Giraffe A Perfect Day

The Magnificent 7 - All in One Day

The Big 5 - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo - is the benchmark most people have heard of. But at Tintswalo, the conversation is about the Magnificent 7: add cheetah and wild dog to the list, both of which are far rarer and much harder to find. Seeing all seven in a single trip is considered exceptional. Seeing all seven in a single day is something else entirely.

With Wise and Rio - and the certificates that tell the whole story

At the end of that day, Wise told us it had only happened two or three times in his years of doing this. He said it the way you say something true - directly, without fanfare.

Cheetah, wild dog, and rhino - three of the seven, all in one day

Lion, Cape buffalo, zebra - every drive brought something different

Lions at sunset, giraffe on the morning drive, and the reserve that made all of it possible

Wise said seeing all seven in one day had only happened two or three times in his years of doing this. Not everyone sees all seven in an entire trip. We did it in a day.

What This Means for Your Safari

I want to be honest about something: there is no guarantee. Wildlife is wild. A day like ours is not something any guide or lodge can promise, and anyone who tells you otherwise is not being straight with you. But what I can tell you is that the conditions that made that day possible were not accidental.

The reserve gave us space and access. The guide knew where to look and how to read what he was seeing. The tracker could follow a trail that no one else in the vehicle could even see. The lodge had us rested, fed, and out before first light without any of us having to think about it. All of those pieces working together is what created the conditions for something extraordinary to happen.

This is why safari planning matters. Not just the destination, not just the lodge - the whole picture. The reserve, the guide, the timing, the way your days are structured. Every one of those decisions changes what your safari looks like.

Planning Note

I can now request Wise as guide for my clients at Tintswalo. If you are planning a safari and want to know that you have the best possible team in the bush with you, this is exactly the kind of detail that matters - and exactly the kind of thing you get when you work with someone who has been there. Do not leave a trip like this to chance. Fill out our planning form and let us build it properly.

Part 1 of This Series

This post covers the safari experience. If you missed Part 1 on the lodge itself - the Grant Suite, the Ellie Hide, and the espresso that told us everything we needed to know about Tintswalo's service - you can read it here.

Ready to Plan Your Safari?

The reserve, the lodge, the guide, the timing - every detail shapes what your safari becomes. Let us put it together so you just show up.

Fill Out Our Planning Form

The post Safari at Tintswalo: Seeing the Magnificent 7 in One Day appeared first on Explore More Travel Co.| Lake Norman and Charlotte area's premier luxury travel agency.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge: Luxury in the African Bush

wpx_explorem — Wed, 06 May 2026 19:00:02 +0000

Tintswalo Safari Lodge: Luxury in the African Bush | Explore More Travel

Where the Bush Comes to You: Inside Tintswalo Safari Lodge

A luxury safari lodge in one of South Africa's most private reserves - where the suite is stunning, the service is effortless, and an elephant shows up at the watering hole outside your window.

Jen Campbell Boles Founder & CEO, Explore More Travel · team@exploremoretravelco.com

I am standing at the Ellie Hide at Tintswalo Safari Lodge, and an elephant is just feet away from my face. Not behind glass. Not across a field. Just feet. Eye level with an animal drinking from a watering hole, completely unbothered by the humans watching her. My boys - who have spent the last twelve years trying to be too cool for everything - are completely silent. That moment alone was worth the flight.

But let me back up, because the lodge itself deserves its own story before we ever get to what is waiting in the bush.

What Luxury Safari Actually Looks Like

When most people picture safari, they imagine something far more rustic than what actually exists at the top end of the market. Safari does not mean roughing it. What it means at a place like Tintswalo is waking up to the sounds of the bush, stepping out to a private plunge pool, and having your coffee made before you even ask for it.

The lodge and the bar - everything is included at Tintswalo, drinks and all

The lodge is intimate - just ten suites - set directly in the bush with an open, airy design that makes you feel like you are inside the landscape rather than observing it from a distance. Everything is included - meals, drinks, the bar. The pace is unhurried in the best possible way, and that unhurried quality turns out to be one of the most luxurious things about it.

Advisor Insight

When I evaluate a safari lodge for clients, the feel of the place matters as much as the amenities. The best lodges make you slow down without even trying. Tintswalo does this effortlessly - the design, the service, and the rhythm of the days all work together to make you feel like there is nowhere else you need to be.

The Grant Suite

The Grant Suite main bedroom and private plunge pool

We stayed in the Grant Suite - a full villa with a thatched roof, a fireplace, a private plunge pool, and a separate kids' room that gave everyone their own space. The suite sits in the bush with the kind of views that make it hard to leave. My boys had their own room, Rob and I had ours, and the en-suite bathrooms are the kind you photograph and send to friends back home.

The bathroom suite - a soaking tub, a beautifully designed vanity, and finishes that feel anything but rustic

Separate kids' room and the parent suite - everyone gets their own space, which matters on a long trip

Watch on Instagram

Grant Suite Tour - See the full villa at Tintswalo Safari Lodge

The Service: One Espresso Says It All

Halfway through our stay, somewhere between an early 5:30am wake-up and an evening sundowner, I asked for an espresso. It was a simple request - just something to help me reset after a long morning out in the bush. What came back was a single espresso, presented on a small tray with the kind of care and intention you would expect from a fine restaurant. Not because espresso is complicated. Because that is just how Tintswalo does things.

A simple espresso, presented like it mattered. A small thing that tells you everything.

It was just an espresso. But the way it arrived told me everything I needed to know about this place - that no request is too small, and nothing is done without care.

That same attention runs through every part of the day. After our morning game drives we came back to a full brunch spread - the kind of meal that rewards an early start. Sundowners were pre-packed and ready each evening. We never had to manage a single thing. We just showed up.

Post-safari brunch at Tintswalo - the reward for a 5:30am start is very much worth it

Advisor Insight

When I evaluate a safari lodge for clients, the service standard is one of my most important filters. The best lodges remove every decision from your day - you are not managing logistics, you are not tracking timing, you are simply present. That effortless quality is what separates a good safari from a great one, and it is exactly what Tintswalo delivers.

The Ellie Hide: When Safari Finds You

One of Tintswalo's most extraordinary features is something you simply cannot replicate elsewhere: the Ellie Hide. It is a viewing area built at water level near a natural watering hole where local elephants come to drink on warm days. You are not elevated on a deck. You are not behind glass. You are right there, just feet away, watching them drink completely on their own terms.

My boys were locked in for the entire thing. No one reached for a phone. No one asked how much longer. They were just... there. If you have 12-year-old twins, you know that does not happen by accident.

Looking down at the watering hole as the elephants drink -
the reel below shows what it looks like at eye level

Watch on Instagram

The Ellie Hide - Eye level with wild elephants at Tintswalo

Planning Note

The Ellie Hide experience depends entirely on the elephants - they arrive on their own schedule, typically on warmer days when the watering hole is most appealing. Tintswalo also has a live Ellie Hide camera on their website so you can catch a glimpse before you go: tintswalo.com/safari/safari-live-camera. This is wildlife, not a scheduled show - and that is exactly what makes it unforgettable when it happens.

Why This Lodge

Tintswalo made our family feel completely cared for from the moment we arrived. The suite, the service, the Ellie Hide, the way a simple espresso shows up on a tray like it is the most important thing you have asked for all day - all of it adds up to an experience that is hard to put into words until you are standing in the middle of it.

And that is before we even talk about what happens out in the bush. The safari experience at Tintswalo - our guide, our tracker, and what our family witnessed in a single extraordinary day - is its own story entirely. That is coming in Part 2.

Up Next in This Series

Part 2 covers the safari experience itself - our guide Wise, his brother and tracker Rio, why having the right team changes absolutely everything, and how our family witnessed all seven of the Magnificent 7 in a single day. Rio told us it had only happened two or three times in his years of doing this. We have the certificates to prove it.

Watch on Instagram

A Perfect Day on Safari - a preview of what is coming in Part 2

Ready to Plan Your Safari?

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Victoria Falls with Kids: Soaked and Completely Hooked

wpx_explorem — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 14:20:49 +0000

Victoria Falls with Kids: Soaked, Surprised, and Completely Won Over | Explore More Travel

Family Travel · Africa · Destination Guide

We Got Completely Soaked at Victoria Falls. We Would Do It Again in a Heartbeat.

I came to Victoria Falls worried we would not be able to see the waterfall at all. What I did not expect was that it would become one of the most surprising, relaxed, and genuinely wonderful stops of our entire Southern Africa trip.

Jen Campbell Boles Founder & CEO, Explore More Travel · team@exploremoretravelco.com

My shoes had puddles of water in them. Not damp. Puddles. We were standing at the edge of Victoria Falls in matching rain coats that were doing absolutely nothing, hoods blown back by the force of the wind and spray, completely soaked through from the inside out. Bryson and Connor were laughing. Rob and I were laughing. Our guide, who had seen this exact scene a thousand times, was also laughing. And honestly? It was one of the best moments of the whole trip.

This is Part 2 of our Southern Africa series. We started in Cape Town - if you missed that post, go back and read it, because Cape Town sets the stage for everything that follows. But Victoria Falls? Victoria Falls surprised me in the very best way.

Advisor Insight

We were traveling at the end of rainy season, and Zimbabwe had experienced an exceptionally wet January - flooding that pushed river levels significantly higher than normal. When I learned that, I genuinely worried we would not be able to see the falls at all. That fear turned out to be unfounded, but it does illustrate something important: the time of year you visit Victoria Falls dramatically changes the experience. High water means spectacular volume and spray but limited visibility of the actual falls themselves. Low water, typically later in the year, reveals more of the rock face and gorge. Neither is wrong - they are just different. Knowing which experience you want is part of how we plan a trip like this.

Brief breaks in the overspray gave us glimpses of the falls - and rainbows. They were everywhere. You had to be quick to catch them.

The Smoke That Thunders

Victoria Falls is known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, which translates to "The Smoke That Thunders." Standing there, drenched and windswept, that name makes complete sense. It is not just water falling - it is a physical force. The mist rises so high and so thick that it creates its own weather system around you. When the wind shifted, we would get a brief clearing and catch a glimpse of the actual falls, and I would scramble for my phone - only to have the spray close back in before I could get the shot. Eventually I stopped trying and just stood there in it.

I had spotted the spray from the plane on our approach and thought, genuinely, that something was on fire in the distance. That white plume rising from the horizon - it looks nothing like what you would expect a waterfall to look like from the air. Nothing prepares you for the scale of it.

The challenge of catching glimpses of the waterfall between clouds of overspray made it fun for the kids. By the end, we felt like we had just survived a hurricane - and they were proud of it.

The boys were absolute troopers. Both had the sense to wear their Crocs - smart kids. Rob's shoes and mine, on the other hand, were completely waterlogged. Luckily it was a sunny day and they managed to dry out before our afternoon plans. The rain coats our guide provided were well-intentioned, but the wind from the force of the falls meant hoods would not stay up, so the water just poured straight in anyway. My advice: wear water shoes or Crocs, and keep your camera ready for those brief windows when the spray clears - because the rainbows that appear in those moments are worth every bit of the soaking.

Completely soaked and completely happy. This is the Victoria Falls experience at peak water season.

Watch on Instagram See what it actually looks like inside the spray at Victoria Falls - this is not a drill.

Palm River Hotel: More Than a Home Base

We stayed at the Palm River Hotel in a two-bedroom Deluxe Suite sitting right on the banks of the Zambezi River, about four kilometers from the falls. And here is where Victoria Falls started to do something I did not see coming: it slowed us all the way down.

After the pace of Cape Town - which was extraordinary, full, and worth every bit of energy it took - Victoria Falls felt like exhaling. The property is beautiful in a quiet, unhurried way. Big indigenous trees line the river. There is a pool. There is a swing near the water that Bryson and Connor had to jump on every single time we walked past it. I mean every time. And I loved that about it.

Palm River Hotel at dusk, the pool, and the terrace - the kind of place that invites you to slow down.

The boys were different there. They were reading. Swimming. Jumping on that swing. There is something about a place that strips away the noise and lets kids just be kids, and Palm River Hotel did that for ours. I kept thinking about Savannah - the big trees, the river, the unhurried feeling of a town that knows it does not need to rush. Victoria Falls has that same quality.

That connection to Savannah only got stronger when one of the young women working at the hotel mentioned she had spent time at the JW Marriott in Savannah - a property I have always loved for its funky, cool energy and location. We spent way too long comparing notes on the city from the banks of the Zambezi River, thousands of miles from home. It was one of those small-world moments that you remember long after the trip is over.

The two-bedroom suite had separate spaces for the boys - a detail that matters more than you think after a long travel day.

The suite's bathroom and shared living space -
comfortable, well-designed, and suited for a family that has been on the move.

The dining room and interiors at Palm River - airy and considered design that feels perfectly suited to the environment.

Advisor Insight

The two-bedroom Deluxe Suite configuration at Palm River is one of the reasons I would recommend this property for families. Two bedrooms that connect through a shared lounge and private verandah means everyone has their own space - which matters enormously after you have been traveling together for a week. The suite is thoughtfully designed: proper bathrooms with real bathtubs, a shared terrace, and that setting on the Zambezi River. The hotel also offers Deluxe Rooms, additional suite categories, and a Villa with a private pool for those who want that level of privacy. There is a configuration that works for most family sizes and travel styles.

Wildlife We Were Not Expecting

I want to be honest about something, because I think it will actually help you plan better: I did not realize how much wildlife surrounds Victoria Falls. I knew we were going to a waterfall. I did not fully understand that Victoria Falls sits within a network of national parks and that the surrounding area is genuinely wild.

Every evening at Palm River, the warthogs arrived to graze on the lawn. But the moment that genuinely stopped me was at dinner, when a small herd of wild elephants came right onto the property. On safari, you expect this. At a hotel on a river next to a town, it is something else entirely.

Left: our nightly warthog visitors. Right: wild elephants on property during dinner. Not something we planned for.

Advisor Insight

Full disclosure: I plan Africa trips for a living and somehow did not fully appreciate how much wildlife surrounds Victoria Falls until I was standing in it. Safari-adjacent wildlife at a riverside hotel? Did not see that coming. This is exactly why being there matters - and why I trust Hills of Africa Travel as my partner for Africa itineraries. My expertise is knowing my clients deeply and building complex, multi-destination journeys that work seamlessly. Their expertise is Africa itself - the destinations, the operators, the nuances that only come from years of boots-on-the-ground knowledge. Together, we build trips that neither of us could plan as well alone. Victoria Falls is now a destination I can recommend with real confidence - and real detail.

Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary: A Surprise We Did Not See Coming

Victoria Falls was the undeniable highlight of this stop - but the Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary gave it a run for its money. We were genuinely surprised by how much we enjoyed it and how personal the experience felt.

Wild Horizons is a sanctuary and orphanage built on a conservation principle: the most powerful way to inspire people to protect elephants is to let them connect with one. The elephants here were rescued - some orphaned, some recovered from difficult circumstances - and they are cared for by handlers who have built deep, long-term relationships with each animal. Crucially, the land borders an unfenced national park, meaning the elephants are completely free to come and go as they choose. They are not contained. They stay because they want to be there, and that distinction matters enormously in how the experience feels.

We were educated before we ever got close to an elephant. The handlers explained the threats facing elephant populations today, the history of each animal in their care, and the structure of elephant herd relationships. Then we walked out into the bush, and these massive, gentle animals were just... there. Right there.

Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary - and the family, appropriately thrilled about the whole thing.

The feeding experience is something I will describe to every client considering this stop: the boys learned there are three ways to feed an elephant. The trunk acts as a vacuum and the elephant draws the treat right up into it. You can load treats into the end of the trunk and they carry it to their own mouth. Or - and this was the crowd favorite - the elephant opens its mouth and you throw the treats directly in. They tried all three. Repeatedly.

Up close with these gentle giants, an elephant hug,
and one boy's first time climbing into a safari vehicle - a fitting preview of what was coming next.

Watch on Instagram Three ways to feed an elephant - they tested all of them. Multiple times.

Planning Note

The Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary is appropriate for children nine and up and is one of the activities I will include on every Victoria Falls itinerary going forward. It is run with genuine commitment to conservation - not a tourist production - and the educational component before the encounter is meaningful. Children come away understanding why these animals need protection, not just that elephants are large and impressive. That combination of experience and education is exactly what I look for when building activities for family travel.

Sunset on the Zambezi: The Ra-Ikane Cruise

On our first evening, we walked from the hotel reception across the lawn to a small jetty on the Zambezi - a short walk, everything perfectly easy - and boarded the Ra-Ikane for our sunset cruise. The boat was built to replicate the Ma-Robert, David Livingstone's original vessel, and it carries that spirit: old world, unhurried, the kind of experience that feels like it belongs to a different era entirely.

The Zambezi is stunning. Massive trees line the banks. Hippos surfaced close enough that we could hear them. We spotted crocodiles. And at some point, sailing upriver, our guide pointed out that we had crossed into Zambia. I am counting it.

The Ra-Ikane on the Zambezi at sunset.
Snacks, drinks, hippos, and that unmistakable plume of smoke rising from the falls in the distance.

In the distance, you could see the white mist rising from Victoria Falls - the same plume I had mistaken for a fire from the plane. Even from the river at golden hour, it still looked like smoke. We had snacks and drinks on board, watched the sun go down over the water, and by the time we got back to the hotel we were so well fed and so content that we ordered a light room service dinner and called it a night. Sometimes when you are traveling with kids, knowing when to have a quiet evening in is the right call. That night it was exactly right.

We crossed into Zambia at sunset. The hippos were right there. That white plume from Victoria Falls was visible on the horizon. We had wine in hand. It was one of those evenings that feels like it cannot possibly be real.

Watch on Instagram Sunset on the Zambezi - the Ra-Ikane cruise is one of those experiences that makes a trip feel complete.

What Victoria Falls Actually Is

I came here thinking of Victoria Falls as a stop between Cape Town and safari. I left thinking of it as a destination in its own right - one that deserves more than the two days we gave it. On the way to the airport, the boys said, unprompted, that we should have stayed an extra day in Victoria Falls instead of Cape Town. That landed. It is something I will factor into every Africa itinerary I build going forward.

A fellow travel advisor who visited just a few days after we left posted a video of a herd of elephants crossing the Zambezi during high water, their trunks raised above the surface like snorkels. I watched it three times. I was equal parts jealous and grateful - because honestly, if one more extraordinary thing had happened in Victoria Falls, I might not have made it to the Kruger at all.

Next up: Tintswalo Safari Lodge in the Manyeleti Game Reserve. Four days in the bush, our own private game vehicle, and some sightings I am still processing. That post is coming.

Ready to Plan Your Africa Trip?

Victoria Falls, safari, Cape Town - we have done the research, made the connections, and been there ourselves.
Let us help you build an itinerary that is right for your family.

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The post Victoria Falls with Kids: Soaked and Completely Hooked appeared first on Explore More Travel Co.| Lake Norman and Charlotte area's premier luxury travel agency.

Why Cape Town Should Be First on Your South Africa Trip

wpx_explorem — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:31:30 +0000

Cape Town with Kids: The Perfect First Stop on a South Africa Safari Trip

Family Travel · Africa · Destination Guide

Why Cape Town Should Be First on Your South Africa Trip

We started in Cape Town. It made all the difference. Here's what three days in one of the world's most extraordinary cities taught us about the art of arriving.

Jen Campbell Boles Founder & CEO, Explore More · team@exploremoretravelco.com

We are standing on top of Table Mountain, 3,500 feet above Cape Town, and my boys - the same two who spent the entire cable car ride with their eyes squeezed shut - are asking if we can come back tomorrow. That is Cape Town in a nutshell. It wins you over before you even realize it is happening.

A colleague I respect recently posted that travelers should save Cape Town for last: start on safari, then Victoria Falls, then the city. I understand the logic, but I disagree. Cape Town is not a finale. It is the perfect beginning, and the reasoning matters if you are planning your own South Africa adventure.

"When you land on the other side of the world, you need a few days to feel human again. Cape Town gives you that... while also being one of the most incredible places on earth."

When you are traveling internationally, especially across 6 time zones, the first 48 hours are about survival. You need sunshine, fresh air, movement, and enough stimulation to stay awake until a reasonable hour. Cape Town delivered all of that beautifully. By the time we boarded the plane to our next destination, we were fully adjusted, fully present, and ready for the emotional intensity that safari and Victoria Falls would bring. Start there, and you risk being too tired to take it all in.

Day One: Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula

Our first full day was a private guided exploration of Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula, and it set the tone for everything that followed. I cannot overstate the value of a private guide, particularly with children. Ours was warm, knowledgeable, and patient - and a father himself, with a 12-year-old son at home. That is not a coincidence. Our suppliers work hard to match the right guide to the right client, and it shows. Because we had him for both days, Bryson and Connor were already comfortable with him by day two, asking questions freely in a way they never would have with someone they had just met.

The cable car up Table Mountain was our first small triumph of the trip. The boys made their reluctance very clear on the way up - eyes closed, hands gripped - but the moment they stepped out onto the summit, something shifted. Worth noting: the gondola rotates as it ascends, so the views open up in every direction before you even reach the top. The 360-degree views over the city and the Atlantic Ocean will stop you in your tracks. We reluctantly made our way back down and headed south.

Table Mountain - the views open up before you even reach the top. The gondola rotates on the way up, which is reason enough to go.

Watch: Day 1 Highlights Reel Table Mountain, penguins, Chapman's Peak and more - see it all on Instagram

From Table Mountain we headed south toward the Cape of Good Hope. Our guide then made an executive decision to flip the afternoon order - his reasons made sense in the moment, even if I cannot recall the exact logic now - and that is precisely the point. A private guide can read the day, the weather, the energy of the group, and adjust on the fly in a way no group tour ever could. The result: we took Chapman's Peak Drive first - 114 curves along one of the most dramatic coastal roads in the world - before stopping at Noordhoek Farm Village for Kristen's Kick-Ass Ice Cream. On vacation, anything goes. The name absolutely lives up to it.

Chapman's Peak Drive - 114 curves, zero complaints. Then Kick-Ass Ice Cream at Noordhoek. Yes, before lunch. No regrets.

And then our next stop: the penguin colony at Simon's Town. What nobody tells you is that you do not expect to find penguins here. They are just waddling around on the beach like they own the place, completely unbothered by the crowd of humans staring at them. They are so cute and funny to watch - it is one of those things you have to see to believe.

Penguins at Simon's Town. Not something you expect to find - but absolutely something you will not forget.

Our private picnic lunch wrapped the afternoon - a blanket in the sun, perfect weather, not too hot, just right.

Our private peninsula picnic. Perfect weather, perfect company.

Day Two: The Winelands - Not Just for Adults

This is the day I hear the most skepticism about when I describe it to clients. The Winelands? With kids? Trust me.

We drove about 90 minutes to Franschhoek, a tiny French-inspired town surrounded by mountains and vineyards, and it felt immediately different from the city. Bryson and Connor had been asking for weeks how fast the electric bikes went - they are afraid of heights but not speed, which is the exact opposite of me - and the e-bike tour through the vineyards did not disappoint.

They had been asking about the e-bikes for weeks. Worth every minute of the anticipation.

One of the vineyards we visited had survived devastating recent fires - you could still see the burn marks on the surrounding hillsides - but the estate itself came through unscathed. Pretty incredible when you see it in person.

Lunch at a fine dining venue on Easter Sunday gave us a moment of collective parental anxiety - fancy restaurant, two boys - but the outdoor setting, the relaxed Easter atmosphere, and a kids menu featuring steak resolved that quickly. Both boys were very pleased with themselves.

Boschendal Wine Estate was our afternoon stop. We did an outdoor wine tasting while the kids had their own fruit juice tasting - treated with the same seriousness and care. It is that kind of thoughtfulness that makes a destination genuinely welcoming, not just a checkbox.

The Winelands are more family-friendly than you might think. Their tasting menu was just as seriously curated as ours.

Watch: Day 2 Winelands Highlights Reel E-bikes, wine tasting, Boschendal and more - see it all on Instagram

Planning Note

If you do not mind one extra bag-pack, consider spending your first two nights in the Franschhoek or Stellenbosch wine region before moving into Cape Town. The airport sits on the side of the city closest to the wine region, making arrival easy, and the slower pace of the winelands is a gentler introduction to South Africa. There is also a hop-on/hop-off wine tram we did not get to experience this trip, but it looks like a lovely way to spend an afternoon. I will be recommending this route to certain clients going forward.

Day Three: History That Stays With You

We prepared for this day deliberately. Before leaving home, we watched documentaries and read about apartheid as a family, so that when we arrived at Robben Island - where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment - our kids had context. The island sits in Table Bay, a short ferry ride from Cape Town's waterfront, and it is a visit that stays with you.

Our private guide did not show up that morning. It was the one hiccup of our trip, and I want to mention it because this is the reality of travel: things go wrong, even when everything is carefully planned. We joined the group tour, which covered the history well. But the contrast between that experience and our private-guided days was impossible to miss. We made the most of it, and I left more committed than ever to the value of private guiding.

Advisor Insight

On private guides: When our Robben Island private guide did not show up - these things happen, even on the most well-planned trips - we joined the group tour and it was fine. But it reminded me exactly why I always recommend private guides. The ability to ask questions, set your own pace, and have someone attuned to your group's specific interests is irreplaceable. It is one of the most valuable investments you can make on a trip like this.

Our township visit that afternoon was something else entirely. Townships in South Africa are dense urban settlements established during the apartheid era, when the government forcibly relocated non-white populations away from city centers. Our guides that day were from Langa, one of Cape Town's oldest townships. Many people own homes there and have built good lives. But there is also real poverty, and the repercussions of apartheid are still visible in ways that are impossible to ignore. What struck us most was the pride - Langa was not a sad place. It was full of community, energy, and resilience. Visiting responsibly, with guides who have roots there, is a way of bearing witness rather than just observing.

We saw children playing in the streets, having turned large plastic bags into makeshift tents and grocery carts. Bryson and Connor watched quietly. On the drive back, I told them they were no longer allowed to tell me they were bored. I meant it, and I think they understood why.

Watch: Langa Township Tour A moving and important part of any Cape Town visit - see our reel on Instagram

Where We Stayed: The Clarendon Fresnaye

Our home for four nights was The Clarendon Fresnaye, a boutique property tucked into the quiet residential neighborhood of Fresnaye on the slopes of Lion's Head. It felt less like a hotel and more like staying in someone's beautifully appointed home - calm and intimate, even with several families in residence. Two pools, sweeping views of the Atlantic, bougainvillea spilling everywhere.

My favorite part of each day was the morning patio, where I had my cappuccino before the day's adventures began. There is something about starting a big day in a quiet, beautiful place that sets everything right.

The morning breakfast terrace - my favorite spot in all of Cape Town.

The Clarendon Fresnaye - it feels like staying in someone's beautifully appointed home.

Watch: Inside The Clarendon Fresnaye Take a look at our home in Cape Town - see the rooms reel on Instagram

What This Means for Your Trip

Cape Town is often described as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. What makes it work so well as a first stop is the combination of natural wonder, cultural depth, world-class dining, and the ability to layer in experiences that resonate long after you come home - whether you are traveling with children, with a partner, or on your own terms entirely.

It is also a destination that rewards a travel advisor who knows it well. The difference between joining a group tour and having a private guide who knows exactly where to set up your picnic, which winery does things a little differently, and how to read the day and adjust the itinerary when the moment calls for it... that difference is the whole trip.

Next week, I will continue with Victoria Falls and then the safari that closed out our journey in the most unforgettable way. If you have been thinking about South Africa and do not know where to start, start here. Fill out our safari form linked below and we will help you plan every detail.

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The Springs Resort Arenal: Luxury Hot Springs & Adventure

wpx_explorem — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 16:42:03 +0000

After leaving Peace Lodge, we headed to the Arenal region for our stay at The Springs Resort & Spa, one of Costa Rica’s most well-known luxury properties. Tucked into the rainforest with direct views of Arenal Volcano, it’s the kind of place that delivers both excitement and tranquility – often in the same afternoon!

First Impressions: A Grand Welcome

When we arrived, we were greeted with a warm welcome and a full property tour -something I highly recommend. The Springs is beautifully spread out across 165 acres, and having someone guide us helped us get oriented. Here is a link to our property tour to give you an idea. Even though it’s large, there’s always a quiet corner to relax and soak in the scenery.

The main lodge is the heart of the resort, featuring several restaurants, a swim-up bar in one of the thermally heated pools, and even a game room for kids – a lifesaver during those classic Costa Rican afternoon showers. There’s even free putt-putt golf on site, which was a fun bonus for our boys.

Our Room: Spacious and Serene

We stayed in the newer Aracari building in an Alta Vista Double Room, which can comfortably fit a family of six. It was just a short walk or golf cart ride to the main lodge, and our balcony views of Arenal Volcano were simply breathtaking. Here is the Instagram reel link to our room tour.

As soon as we unpacked, the boys took off in search of the hot springs with the water slide – and, no surprise, that quickly became their favorite spot for the rest of our stay.

The Hot Springs: Nature’s Playground

The Springs Resort features 28 mineral hot and cold spring pools spread across four acres. They’re divided into the Las Lagunas, Perdido Springs, and Club Rio Springs areas, each with a unique atmosphere and temperatures ranging from 83°F to 104°F. The variety is amazing; some are quiet and secluded, while others are lively and social. No matter where you end up, you’ll have incredible views and the soothing sound of flowing water.

Spa & Relaxation

Of course, we have to talk about The Sanctuary Spa – after all, spa is in the title, The Springs Resort and Spa!

My spa credit from our stay was the perfect excuse to treat myself to a massage – and it did not disappoint. The therapists were excellent, and the setting was tranquil, with open-air treatment rooms overlooking the rainforest. The spa menu features massages, facials, body wraps, and hydrotherapy experiences designed to restore balance after days filled with adventure.

Club Rio: Adventure on the River

The biggest surprise of our stay was how much we loved Club Rio, located along the river below the main resort. It felt like a world of its own, with its own hot springs, hammocks, and open-air games like corn hole and ping pong. The river rushes right by, creating the perfect soundtrack for an afternoon of relaxation.

We loved our river tubing adventure, and our time at Club Rio made it even better. Even though it felt a world away from the resort, it was just a short bus ride from the main area of the resort. One last Instagram video link to share our river tubing experience with you.

Club Rio also offers kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing, mountain biking, guided nature walks, and birdwatching. There’s even an animal sanctuary but we skipped it since since we had just visited the one at La Paz Waterfall Gardens. (Fun Fact: Peace Lodge at La Paz Waterfall Gardens and The Springs are sister properties).

We had lunch at the restaurant in this section, which features a different menu from the main resort. The food was delicious, and the laid-back riverside setting was one of our favorite meals of the trip.

Breakfast with a View

Another highlight was the daily breakfast, included with our stay. With strong Costa Rican coffee, fresh smoothies, and incredible views of Arenal Volcano, it was the perfect start to each day before heading out for more exploring. With eight of us traveling together, our server had quite the work out delivering our smoothies each morning!

Why Book with Explore More Travel Co.?

As a Virtuoso affiliated resort, bookings through Explore More Travel Co. include the following exclusive amenities:

Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily buffet breakfast for two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$125 USD spa credit per accommodation, per stay
One complimentary Club Rio Tour per person (for up to two guests per accommodation, per stay)

We work closely with The Springs team and can offer personal recommendations from our own experience. When you book through Explore More Travel Co., we handle every detail from resort coordination to private transfers and adventure planning, so you can simply relax and enjoy Costa Rica.

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Galapagos Expedition Cruise with Lindblad & National Geographic

wpx_explorem — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 18:09:27 +0000

When it comes to expedition cruising, no one does it quite like Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic. They pioneered this style of travel nearly 60 years ago, starting with their first voyage to Antarctica in 1966. Their next destination? The Galápagos Islands. It’s where their legacy of exploration truly took off – and after experiencing it myself, it’s easy to see why.

This partnership between Lindblad and National Geographic brings together expert naturalists, scientists, and storytellers to help guests connect deeply with each destination. You don’t just see the wildlife … you learn about the ecosystems, conservation efforts, and human stories that make the Galápagos one of the most fascinating places on Earth.

Where are the Galápagos Islands?

The Galápagos Islands are located about 600 miles (1,000 kilometers) off the coast of Ecuador, straddling the equator in the Pacific Ocean. Their remote location and unique volcanic origins have created the perfect conditions for wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Giant tortoises, marine and land iguanas, blue-footed boobies, Galápagos penguins, and countless other species have evolved here in relative isolation, making the islands a living laboratory of nature.

Part of what makes the Galápagos so biologically rich are the powerful ocean currents that converge here. The cold Humboldt and Cromwell currents mix with the warmer Panama Current, bringing nutrient-rich waters that support massive populations of fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. These currents also influence the islands’ climate and vegetation, creating microhabitats that sustain a wide variety of wildlife. The convergence of these currents, combined with the islands’ isolation, is why the Galápagos remains one of the most extraordinary places for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Getting There

My sister joined me for this trip, which made the experience even more special. Getting to the Galápagos is simpler than you might expect – once you make it to Ecuador, Lindblad takes care of everything from there. You can choose to fly into Quito or Guayaquil. The flight from Quito stops briefly in Guayaquil to pick up guests who start their journey there before continuing to the islands.

We chose Quito because the return flight offered an overnight option, giving us an extra full day at home with our kids once we got back. From the moment we stepped out of baggage claim, a Lindblad representative was waiting for us and escorted us to our hotel. From that point on, they were with us every step of the way until we returned to Guayaquil or Quito at the end of the expedition.

Life Onboard and a Look at Our Week

Our adventure began with a relaxed first day onboard the National Geographic Endeavour II, getting familiar with the ship and the incredible team that would guide us through the week ahead.

Day 2 started with a talk about snorkeling and an introduction to our gear. Later that morning, we had our first snorkel experience off Española Island, where I quickly discovered how much of a game-changer a wetsuit can be – it adds so much buoyancy and comfort in the water.

That afternoon, we did a dry landing for a hike that brought us face-to-face with baby sea lions and their mothers …

We were also treated to our first blue-footed boobies, and the only albatross sightings of the trip, including a few chicks (which are huge!). Paths were lined with marine iguanas, so we carefully tiptoed around them.

Day 3 began with an early hike on Floreana Island, where sea turtles stole the show.

We skipped snorkeling that morning in favor of a ride on the ship’s glass-bottom boat and were amazed by how many fish we could see below. In the afternoon, we took to the kayaks and found ourselves surrounded by sea turtles. They popped up around us and swam gracefully beneath the kayaks, which was an unforgettable way to experience these incredible creatures up close. Here is a video link to that experience, which can’t be captured in photos!

After kayaking, we visited Post Office Bay, home to a tradition started by 18th-century whalers who left letters to be hand-delivered by other sailors passing through. Visitors still take part today. Floreana also carries a bit of mystery and is the setting for a real-life story of early settlers whose lives took dramatic turns, now portrayed in the film Eden.

Day 4 was spent on Santa Cruz, the most populated island in the Galápagos, and one of the few with fertile soil. Unlike many of the drier islands, Santa Cruz benefits from misty highlands that allow lush farms to thrive. We started at the Charles Darwin Research Station, learning about their giant tortoise breeding and conservation program. Each island has its own distinct species, so once young tortoises are large enough, they’re returned to their native island.

I couldn’t resist the chance to take a photo of a baby tortoise numbered SIX-SEVEN (if you have a middle schooler, you will understand).

From there, we visited a local farm in the highlands, where sugar cane and coffee are grown using traditional methods. The contrast between the fertile highlands of Santa Cruz and the arid landscapes of other islands really highlights the Galápagos’ unique ecology. One of the things I loved most was seeing how Lindblad sources nearly all food from Ecuador, including local farms and, when possible, Galápagos farms. This approach allows you to taste the flavors of the country while on board – fresh, authentic, and sustainable.

After the farm visit, we headed to a ranch that sits along the natural paths of the giant tortoises. Lunch was served on the property, giving us the chance to see these incredible creatures up close in their natural environment. Rubber boots were provided to protect us from tortoise droppings and fire ants, making the experience comfortable as well as immersive. We finished the day with a little free time in town before returning to the ship for dinner, enjoying another chance to savor Ecuadorian-inspired cuisine prepared from local ingredients.

Day 5, we explored the north side of Santa Cruz in search of elusive land iguanas. While marine iguanas stay near the coast, the land species have more territory to roam, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, but we spotted two! In the afternoon, we kayaked through mangroves, watching rays and sharks glide beneath us in the calm water

Day 6 was all about the Galápagos penguin, which is the only penguin species north of the equator. Cool ocean currents around the islands create just the right conditions for them to live here, even in a tropical climate. We took a pre-breakfast Zodiac ride around Bartolomé Island, spotting them along the lava rocks, then snorkeled in the same area later that morning. It turned into one of those “see everything” moments: penguins, sea lions, sharks, octopus, stingrays, and vibrant schools of fish. We skipped the second snorkel that afternoon, using the downtime to catch up on some work and maybe a little nap.

As the sun set, we ventured back out by Zodiac, where four playful penguins splashed nearby, a sea lion tried to join in, and another circled our boat before the light faded – a perfect ending to an incredible day.

I am also adding a video link because the penguins are too cute frolicking for you not to watch!

Our final day was spent on Genovesa Island, a paradise for bird lovers. Sea birds were everywhere – frigatebirds, red-footed boobies, gulls, and more – and I was glad I wore a hat! That afternoon, we visited Darwin Bay, where we watched a newborn sea lion pup learning to nurse. The little one was persistent, and the mother was doing her best to guide the baby but the pup could not quite figure it out. It was both adorable and a bit frustrating to watch, seeing their determination and patience in action.

Not all encounters were as lighthearted. We also saw a sea lion tangled in a fishing net, and our guide quickly photographed it to report to the National Park rangers, who will do their best to free it. Even with single-use plastics banned and fishing tightly regulated in the Galápagos, strong currents bring debris from around the world. It was a stark reminder that our choices at home – like reusing a water bottle or skipping a plastic bag – an make a real difference for wildlife in places like this.

Final Thoughts

If you love adventure but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, this is your sweet spot. Think up-close wildlife encounters, expert naturalists leading the way, small-ship access to places big ships can’t reach, and time to truly explore instead of rushing from port to port.

It’s not about checking boxes. It’s about discovery, connection, and experiencing the world in a way that feels personal and meaningful.

Curious if this kind of journey fits your travel style? Let’s chat and make sure your next adventure is the right one.

Under Water Video

One of our naturalists put together a gorgeous underwater video from our trip. It’s long, but you can speed it up or just watch a few minutes. It’s fascinating to see these creatures in their natural environment, and it really brings the Galápagos to life.

And for the divers out there, Lindblad does offer an option to add two days of diving during the voyage. The add-on is only available on certain trips for certified divers and must be arranged during the booking process, so please reach out for more details. Whether you dive, snorkel, or just want to witness via glass-bottom boat, you can experience the magic of the water surrounding Galapagos!

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The post Galapagos Expedition Cruise with Lindblad & National Geographic appeared first on Explore More Travel Co.| Lake Norman and Charlotte area's premier luxury travel agency.

Peace Lodge Costa Rica: A Luxurious Rainforest Escape

wpx_explorem — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:10:00 +0000

If you’re planning a Costa Rican adventure, make Peace Lodge your first stop. Located just an hour from San José International Airport, this boutique hotel offers a serene introduction to the country’s natural beauty.

Evening Arrival: Soaking in the Views

We arrived at Peace Lodge in the late afternoon, greeted by misty mountain air and the soothing sounds of the rainforest. Our Deluxe Guest Room was a sanctuary – spacious, beautifully designed, and immersed in nature. The room featured a king-size bed, a grand river stone fireplace, and a balcony with a Jacuzzi and hammock, perfect for unwinding after our flight.

The highlight was the massive bathroom, a true oasis for my plant-obsessed husband. It was more of a greenhouse than a bathroom, with lush indoor landscaping, a skylight, and a waterfall fountain. The open garden shower and enclosed shower added to the unique experience.

We were traveling with our friends, and the only thing better than our connecting deluxe rooms was the kids’ reactions to them!

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Heated Pools and Dining Delights

After settling in, we headed to the grotto-style swimming pool. The warm water was incredibly inviting and we enjoyed relaxing as we watched storms in the distance.

Later, we dined at Vista Poás Restaurant, where we savored one of our best meals in Costa Rica—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.

Morning Exploration: Wildlife Park and Waterfall Hike

Jet lag had us up early, so we took advantage of our exclusive access to the adjacent La Paz Waterfall Gardens before the public arrived. The park was ours alone, allowing us to observe sloths, monkeys, toucans, and even jungle cats up close. The highlight was the Casita Típica, a replica of a traditional Costa Rican home from 100 years ago, where we encountered goats and massive bulls.

We then hiked the trail to the five stunning waterfalls of La Paz. Each waterfall was more breathtaking than the last, surrounded by vibrant rainforest and diverse wildlife.

Breakfast followed by Fishing Fun

After our hike, we enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at Vista Poás, overlooking the rainforest. The cool mountain air and the sounds of nature made for a perfect start to the day.

Thanks to our late checkout, we had time to visit the trout pond. The boys had a blast fishing, adding a fun and relaxing end to our stay.

Final Thoughts

Our time at Peace Lodge was the perfect introduction to Costa Rica. The combination of luxury, nature, and cultural immersion made it a memorable experience. The only regret? Not booking an extra night to fully soak in the tranquility.

Why Book Your Costa Rica Vacation With Us?

We work closely with Peace Lodge and can offer personal recommendations from our own stay. When you book through Explore More Travel Co., you get more than a reservation—you get a thoughtfully planned experience. We coordinate your entire trip through Costa Rica with the help of our trusted on-the-ground partners to ensure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. From transfers to tours to restaurant suggestions, we handle every detail so you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure.

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Exploring India, Part Three: 40 Hours in Mumbai

wpx_explorem — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 23:31:35 +0000

Mumbai was the final stop on my India journey, and while my time here was brief, it was packed with energy, culture, and moments I’ll never forget. After days immersed in palaces, forts, and village life, Mumbai brought a whole new dimension – modern, fast-paced, and full of contrasts.

Staying at The Oberoi, Mumbai

For my overnight stay in Mumbai, I checked into The Oberoi, one of the city’s most renowned hotels. Located along Marine Drive with sweeping views of the Arabian Sea, the property is known for its impeccable service and understated elegance. To my delight, I was upgraded to a Bay View Suite, which gave me a front-row seat to Mumbai’s famous waterfront. The suite was spacious and refined, with floor-to-ceiling windows that framed the water and skyline, a comfortable living space, and a serene bedroom. Unfortunately, I forgot to take photos of my suite, so you’ll have to click on the hyperlink above for more details. Of course, I did not forget to record a video, so you can enjoy this link to my suite tour.

What I didn’t expect was that my video tour of the suite would go semi-viral on Instagram, with viewers across India thanking me for showcasing their country’s world-class hospitality. Many noted that international visitors often try to “go on the cheap,” so they were thrilled to see someone embrace the luxury side of India. It was such a special reminder of how meaningful travel can be, not only for those experiencing it firsthand but also for the people proud to share their culture and hospitality with the world.

Dinner With a View

We kicked things off in style at Aer, the rooftop restaurant and bar at Four Seasons Mumbai. Perched high above the city, with sweeping views and music setting the mood, it felt like we’d stepped into one of the world’s cosmopolitan hotspots. The chef came out to greet us, sending his selections directly to our table, and Aer’s inventive presentation made every dish feel like art. They even make their own gin, infusing it with botanicals and adding essence for a unique twist. The coolest feature of all? A retractable roof that opens with the touch of a remote. Our table had the honor of opening it that night, and the atmosphere instantly shifted into party mode. It was one of those “pinch me” travel moments, and an unforgettable way to start our time in Mumbai.

And yes, I made this video that better illustrates this experience!

Exploring the City

The next morning, we jumped into the thick of Mumbai life with a ride on the city’s train system. Normally famous for its crush of commuters, the trains were quiet since it was a weekend and a holiday. On board, I struck up a conversation with a woman who was applying a decorative bindi between her eyes before work. I mentioned how fascinated I was with the packaging, and to my surprise, she offered me one and applied it right there on the train. A simple gesture, but one that turned into one of my favorite memories.

From there, we visited Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai’s famous open-air laundry. Thousands of garments are washed, dried, and pressed each day in a system that’s been operating for generations. The sheer scale and efficiency were astonishing—it’s a side of the city that few outsiders ever get to see up close.

Dancing Like a Bollywood Star

One of the most fun surprises of our day was a Bollywood dance class. Dance has always been my favorite form of exercise, even if my moves are pretty average, so I was thrilled when our guide revealed this stop. The music, the rhythm, and the energy were infectious – it was such a playful, immersive way to connect with modern Indian culture. And in case you are wondering, yes – there is a video and no – I am not sharing it!

We kept things local for lunch with a vegetarian restaurant that showed just how flavorful and satisfying an all-vegetable spread can be. Then it was time for a little rest before the grand finale of our time in India.

Ganesh Chaturthi Immersion

By pure luck, our visit coincided with the final day of Ganesh Chaturthi, one of India’s biggest festivals. This ten-day celebration honors Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and concludes with Visarjan, the immersion that symbolizes both endings and new beginnings. Families and communities welcome Ganesh into their homes and temples with devotion, then let him go as a reminder of life’s cycles and impermanence.

The streets were overflowing with people dancing, drumming, and chanting as enormous statues of Ganesha made their way toward the water. Some devotees were soaked from wading into the ocean to submerge their idols, while others were covered in brightly colored powder, much like Holi celebrations. It was electric – chaotic, joyful, and awe-inspiring all at once.

At one point, we were separated from our driver and had to weave through the sea of people and traffic to reunite. Instead of stress, it added to the thrill of the experience – sometimes the unexpected is what makes travel so memorable. Enjoy this last video link that illustrates the chaos of the celebration and our dash to find our driver in the pouring rain!

Later that evening, as I packed to leave, I stepped into the elevator at our hotel and was joined by another Ganesha idol on its way to immersion. It felt like the perfect send-off from a city that had shown me its vibrant spirit.

Final Reflections

My time in Mumbai may have been short, but it was one of the most exhilarating stops of the journey. From rooftop dining and Bollywood dancing to quiet gestures of kindness, the buzz of the city, and the energy of Ganesh Chaturthi, Mumbai revealed itself as a city of layers. It is modern and cosmopolitan, yet deeply rooted in tradition. And while Jaipur stole my heart and Udaipur gave me peace, Mumbai left me buzzing with excitement and gratitude for all that India had shared.

From palaces to temples, bustling cities to serene lakes, and hospitality that stays with you long after you return home, India is a destination like no other. We would love to help you discover it in a way that is seamless, elevated, and unforgettable.

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