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Bali Beyond Beaches

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 03 Dec 25 21:08:29 +0000

Indonesia’s most storied island, Bali, has been a symbol of uniquely tropical Asian exotic culture, romance and adventure for centuries. A generation of backpackers and surfers brought Bali’s beaches to ever greater fame, but today, Bali’s being reborn as a bucket list travel destination that’s so much more than beach culture.

Beaches: Surf, Serenity, and Sea Temples

Even Bali’s beaches are more than sand and sun.

Uluwatu is the surfer’s mecca, where pros chase glassy barrels below a cliff-top temple where Kecak dancers chant at sunset.
Nusa Dua whispers of calm and barefoot luxury, perfect for paddleboarding or doing nothing at all.
Amed and Tulamben hide another world beneath the waves: dive to see coral gardens and the hauntingly beautiful USAT Liberty shipwreck, now an underwater reef.
You can see colorful, outrigger jukung boats with fishermen coming and going at dawn on the beaches of Sanur and Amed.

Ken Seet/ Four Seasons (Traditional Balinese Temple Dance at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay)

Culture: Where Everyday Life is a Ceremony

Bali is a Hindu island in a country that is mostly Muslim, with a spirituality that still encompasses the daily rhythm of life. Offerings of flowers and rice (canang sari) decorate every doorway, and daily routines—like sweeping courtyards or lighting incense—are acts of devotion, creating an atmosphere of quiet magic.

Balinese temples are open-air, walled designs and feature ornately carved gateways, designed to be in harmony with nature, leading to locations on cliffs, lakes, and mountains.
The evening Kecak dance at Uluwatu Temple, with dozens of bare-chested men performing rhythmic chanting in the open air on a cliff overlooking the ocean during sunset.
In Ubud, wander through temple courtyards where gamelan orchestras rehearse beside rice terraces. Observe the traditional trance dance called the Sanghyang Jaran, where a dancer in a trance-like state walks through burning coals.
Time your visit for Galungan or Nyepi Balinese Hindu festivals; Galungan is a vibrant, 10-day celebration of good over evil with ancestor spirits visiting, while Nyepi is a solemn, island-wide "Day of Silence" that marks the Balinese New Year, with decorations including towering penjor bamboo poles swaying over village lanes.

Nature: Rice Terraces, Waterfalls, and Sacred Peaks

Bali’s heart beats in green, and its soul is profoundly connected to its lush natural wonders. Local guides often bless the trail before hikes, a gentle reminder that every mountain is considered a god’s abode.

The Tegalalang rice terraces near Ubud are a living artwork of irrigation engineering, part of the ancient subak system recognized by UNESCO.
Hike up Mount Batur for sunrise views over volcanic lakes.
Chase waterfalls in Sekumpul or Gitgit, where jungle vines and mist blur the edges between myth and reality.

Cuisine: Island Flavors with Ritual Roots

Balinese cuisine tells a story of strong spices and spiritual rituals. Dishes, such as Babi Guling, were, and food offerings are a daily tradition.

Savor babi guling (roast suckling pig) - historically prepared for special ceremonies and religious feasts - or bebek betutu (slow-cooked duck), even in the authentic environments of a village casual restaurant or even a roadside stall.
Try lawar, a minced mix of coconut, herbs, and meat, traditionally prepared by hand during temple festivals.
In the resort village of Canggu on Bali’s south coast, a new culinary wave fuses Balinese ingredients with modern flair—think jackfruit tacos with sambal matah.

Crafts: The Art of Everyday Beauty

Art here isn’t decoration, it’s devotion. Balinese craftsmanship deeply integrates spirituality, natural motifs, and meticulous traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Visit Celuk for silversmiths, Mas for woodcarving, and Batubulan for stone sculpture.
Watch artisans carve temple guardians, or paint mythological scenes in Batuan, where every brushstroke is a story.

Pete Seaward/ Four Seasons (Overview of Four Seasons Sayan)

PRACTICAL TIPS:

Where to Stay — From renowned luxury to homey authenticity

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan (Ubud) – A world-famous sanctuary of floating lily ponds and jungle serenity, where each villa feels cradled by the Ayung River valley.
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay is known for traditional Balinese-style villas, many with private pools and options for both relaxation and cultural activities
Amandari (Ubud) – Modeled after a traditional village, it blends thatched rooftops, stone shrines, and quiet paths scented with jasmine.
The Bvlgari Resort (Uluwatu) – Sleek Italian design meets Balinese soul on dramatic ocean cliffs, perfect for sunset meditations or moonlit cocktails.
COMO Shambhala Estate (Payangan) – A wellness retreat where the forest itself feels like therapy.
Authentic Balinese-style accommodations include eco-lodges, boutique hotels, and resorts that use local materials and traditional architecture

Best Time to Go

April to October is the island at its brightest: blue skies, calm seas, and golden light perfect for photography and ceremonies.
June to August offers the clearest weather for surfing and diving.
The rainy season (November to March) is lush and less crowded.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images 1 and 3: Getty

VIDEO: A New Kind of Expedition Cruising by Atlas Ocean Voyages: Epicurean Expeditions

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 03 Dec 25 21:08:29 +0000

Expedition cruises are a fast-growing, life-changing way to see the world in a different way. Atlas Ocean Voyages, with its fleet of small, yacht-like ships that also have polar capabilities, has expanded the definition of expedition cruising in new directions with ‘Epicurean Expeditions.’

The ‘classic’ expedition cruise is polar: Antarctica or increasingly, the Arctic. Other remote maritime destinations that have natural or even cultural treasures to discover are also being added to the list of global expedition cruise itineraries for ships equipped with zodiacs for landings off the beaten track of cruising infrastructure.

Epicurean Expeditions combine that spirit of adventure with culinary curiosity. We sailed aboard an Atlas Ocean Voyages Epicurean Expedition cruise from Lisbon, Portugal, to the north coasts of Spain and France – all rich in food, wine and spirits traditions, stories, and flavors.

On this voyage, the expedition team isn’t composed of geologists, naturalists or ornithologists. Instead, the expedition team leader is a ‘Master Foodie,’ who works in tandem with a celebrity guest chef to provide expert insights and context to culinary experiences on shore and lead gastronomic adventures on board.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE as ‘Master Foodie” Mara Papatheodorou shares the magic, signature events and features of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Epicurean Expedition Cruises

Here are some of the culinary activities from our itinerary:

Lisbon: making Portugal’s famous dessert: custard tarts
Porto, Portugal: shopping in the local market with guest celebrity Chef Ippy Aiona;
Onboard: cooking a dish from market ingredients as a live demonstration during dinner
Onboard: a presentation and tasting by Master Foodie Mara Papatheodorou – the world’s oldest and most widespread sweetener: honey
Vilagarcia de Arousa, Spain: discovering the region's famous, shellfish with destination designations: farmed mussels, and we even joined local women digging in the shallows at low tide for clams
Onboard: Chef Ippy Aiona’s seafood bouillabaisse
Nantes, France: a private tour and tasting of Muscadet wine at Chateau de Goulaine, the oldest commercial winery in the world!
Nantes, France: “Queen of the Salt Marshes:” a tour of the Iron Age seaside salt marshes, learning how to extract salt using millennia-old techniques
Onboard: demonstration by Chef Ippy Aiona about salt as a global culinary tool, not seasoning!
“Beer and Breton Bites” in Brest, France: an exclusive, evening shore excursion just for guests of Atlas World Voyager in the restored, rejuvenated historic docks
Sweet and savory crepes, the signature dish of Brittany and one of the most famous French dishes worldwide
Honfleur, Normandy: The signature spirit of Normandy, apple brandy or Calvados
Onboard: An Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Epicurean Expeditions feature event onboard: the ‘Yachtsman’s Cookoff’, where teams of guests volunteer to compete against each other cooking an unknown, new dish inspired by their voyage.

START YOUR TRIP!

By: Lynn Elmhirst, cruise/ travel journalist and expert

Swap Stress for Serenity this Season with Locally-Inspired Wellness Escapes in Latin America

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 03 Dec 25 21:08:29 +0000

Marriott hotels and resorts are inviting you to escape and unwind in the Caribbean and Latin America through personalized treatments, healing rituals, therapies using natural ingredients, immersive sensory experiences, and holistic lifestyle activities that help you balance body, mind, and spirit.

Reset, rejuvenate, and relax in coveted destinations, relying on modern wellness experts who also tap into local, regional and sometimes ancient practices you can’t experience anywhere else.

COSTA RICA

At W Costa Rica in Guanacaste, nature-lovers can practice shinrin-yoku, the Japanese art of "forest bathing." This mindful walk through a natural setting invites participants to breathe deeply and connect with the surrounding landscape. According to ancient traditions, embracing trees—believed to hold vibrational energy- can help balance emotions and revitalize the body, thanks to the trees' phytoncides and deep-rooted connection to Mother Earth. Studies have shown that the practice reduces stress and reawakens the senses.

At The Mangroove, Autograph Collection, a beachfront hotel in Guanacaste, enjoy a wide range of holistic treatments suited to every traveler—from multi-instrument sound journeys to detoxifying coffee massages—all surrounded by the country's stunning mangroves. For a revitalizing experience, the property offers a sound therapy session featuring Tibetan singing bowls, whose powerful vibrations are known to restore emotional and spiritual balance, a deeply healing experience for both body and mind.

A perfect complement is the Juanilama Flower Massage, featuring a sacred plant in Chorotega cosmology long valued for its calming properties and exquisite aroma. Traditionally used to soothe pain, inflammation, and digestive ailments, the essence of Juanilama envelops the body in tranquility while the ocean views invite the soul to drift peacefully.

Experience a seashell massage inspired by the ocean's natural abundance at The Westin Reserva Conchal on Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. This exclusive Heavenly Spa treatment is designed to balance the body and revitalize the spirit. The ritual combines the soothing warmth of sand-filled seashells with the nourishing benefits of organic coconut oil. As the gentle heat relaxes deep muscles, the oil hydrates the skin and awakens the senses, creating an exquisite experience that restores both body and mind.

At the Spa at Nekajui, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, on the Papagayo Peninsula, you are invited to reconnect with Costa Rica's natural rhythms through the ancestral wisdom of the Nicoya people, known for their longevity and holistic approach to life. Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Spa offers an elevated experience in every sense. Inspired by ancient healing traditions and the power of local botanicals, the exclusive Ritual Sagrado treatment invites guests to transcend the physical realm, awaken their inner light, and return to the roots of simple yet colorful living, creating space to be fully present and self-aware. This deep massage harmonizes body and mind, revitalizing every system through the skilled touch of expert therapists.

COLOMBIA

Surrounded by nature, The Brown, Autograph Collection in Guatapé, around an hour and a half's drive from Medellín, offers a range of wellness experiences, including outdoor yoga sessions, energy awakening classes, sound bathing, and relaxing massages that leave you feeling completely renewed. It is the ideal destination to reconnect with your body, mind, and the serenity of Guatapé's natural landscape.

Coffee lovers will find their bliss at W Bogota, where the AWAY Spa offers a coffee-inspired ritual featuring San Alberto coffee. The treatment is a coffee experience from start to finish, where guests are first delighted with a welcoming coffee syrup, followed by ground coffee for a body exfoliation, and finally, experience the flavor of San Alberto coffee.

PERU

At JW Marriott El Convento Cusco, experience an ancestral ritual inspired by the Inca era. This exclusive treatment uses traditional medicinal plants such as muña, eucalyptus, and other Andean herbs renowned for their healing properties. Combined with natural oxygen therapy, the massage helps alleviate the effects of high altitude, promotes acclimatization, and restores balance between body and mind. Miskychayamuy is the perfect way to welcome Cusco—a soothing experience that harmonizes, revitalizes, and prepares the body to fully embrace the energy of the Andes.

Hidden among Inca stone walls and colonial balconies in Cusco, Andes Spirit Spa, located at the Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection hotel, is a sanctuary of ancient wisdom. Its Andean therapies—such as Samay Inka, Fango del Inka, and Renewal in the Andes—draw from ancestral ingredients like quinoa, coca, muña, and sacred clays from the highlands, combined with energetic rituals and the mystical traditions of the Peruvian Andes. Its signature session, the Andes Spirit Spa Experience, is a three-hour ritual blending exfoliations, body wraps, and massages inspired by Inca practices, offering deep renewal that honors the sacred elements of Pachamama. Combined with a water circuit and thermal loungers, the journey creates a perfect alchemy of earth, water, fire, and air—a way to connect with the Apus and the healing vibrations of this energetic center of the earth. Among its Luxury Therapies, standout treatment Destellos de Oro is inspired by Inca treasures and features a 24k gold body wrap.

Meanwhile, in Urubamba, Peru, nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort, is home to Kallpa Spa, considered one of the country's finest. Enjoy a thermal circuit, underwater beds, a couple's suite witha jacuzzi, and relaxation rooms under a starlit ceiling, all designed to ease muscle tension and activate the body. It is also the only hotel in the region boasting an authentic Andean forest within its grounds.

START YOUR WELLNESS TRIP!

Images courtesy of Marriott International

Top image: Westin Reserva Conchal

This Year’s European Christmas Capital is…

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 03 Dec 25 21:08:29 +0000

Rekindle your love of Christmas traveling to the official – yes, official! - European Christmas capital. Each year, the Christmas Cities Network, with support from the European Parliament, designates a different European Christmas capital, recognizing how that destination brings the local essence of the celebration to life for residents and visitors.

In 2025, the European Christmas Capital is Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania, one of the Baltic countries in north-eastern Europe.

You may think of some of the more famous Christmas destinations – often associated with their Christmas markets, like Nuremberg, Germany, with its mother of all Christmas markets, Strasbourg, France, the largest and oldest in that country, or grand, imperial Vienna, which are all visited by Danube and Rhine River cruises and land travelers alike. Cities like London and Paris are known for their epic lights, shopping and holiday displays. And of course, the religious pilgrimage destinations - like Rome for a Mass or the Pope’s Christmas message – are perennial favorites.

A visit to one of the European Christmas Capitals can not only connect you to favorite and new local traditions, but it can also give you a quieter celebration than the marquee destinations. At Vilius’ celebrations, locals outnumber tourists, and visitors can discover living local traditions that date back to the country’s pagan times.

“I invite everyone to rediscover that sense of wonder and curiosity, as if you were five years old again. It will also be a wonderful opportunity to learn about Lithuanian holiday traditions and sample some seasonal delicacies, including curd doughnuts, sea buckthorn tea, and hot beer,” said Audrius Vainonis, the Lithuanian Santa Claus at the gathering of Santas in Vilnius (pictured, top.)

The official holiday season in Vilnius begins on November 29 with the lighting of the city’s main Christmas Tree in Cathedral Square. Christmas markets, a sparkling Old Town, and even more festive events will keep the Christmas spirit going strong for over a month.

Christmas Day itself is coming early to Vilnius, which is establishing a new tradition of celebrating Christmas Day twice – with the first “Vilnius Christmas Before Christmas” on December 13, 2 weeks before the big day itself.

Highlights of the special day and the entire season include

a special Christmas currency that can be spent on tasty treats across the city,
a free Christmas card postal service to anywhere in the world (simply write your message, add the recipient’s address, and drop the postcard into one of the special Christmas mailboxes scattered around the Old Town. Vilnius’ Christmas elves will take care of the rest),
a 200-strong choir singing Christmas carols in a singalong atmosphere on an outdoor ice rink,
a square featuring 144 uniquely theme-decorated fir trees,
free guided tours with a festive theme, including the legends and secrets of Vilnius, how the nobility celebrated Christmas, and unique holiday traditions, and
Christmas-themed trains running through the holiday period (pictured below).

City organizers hope these experiences help visitors reconnect with their magical childhood holiday memories – and establish some new ones.

You’ll have plenty of time to soak up the magic in the European Christmas capital. The holiday season will close on January 6 with the Three Kings procession from the Gates of Dawn to Cathedral Square.

START YOUR FESTIVE TRIP!

Images courtesy of Go Vilnius.

Celebrating the Night: Seabourn’s ‘Noctourism’ Experiences

lynn.elmhirst@gmail.com (Lynn) — Wed, 03 Dec 25 21:08:29 +0000

During the shortest days and longest nights of the year, ultra-luxury cruise line Seabourn is shining a spotlight on ways it gives guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the primal allure of the night, as part of the growing ‘noctourism’ trend of exploring destinations after dark and connecting with destinations in new and meaningful ways.

Select sailings feature experiences from stargazing and late-night wildlife encounters to cultural and indigenous performances and private evening events under the stars. Whether ashore or on deck, guests are invited to embrace the wonder, stillness, and energy that emerge when the sun goes down.

SHORE

Evening at Ephesus

One of Seabourn’s most treasured signature events in the Eastern Mediterranean, An Evening at Ephesus (pictured, below) transports guests into history. As twilight falls, the ancient Odeon theater is illuminated for an exclusive concert under the stars. Guests sip wine, enjoy canapés, and listen as classical music fills the ruins of one of the world’s great archaeological treasures — a private night available only to Seabourn guests.

Expedition Experience: Baining Fire Dance (pictured, top)

In the shadow of the Baining Mountains in Papua New Guinea, guests experience this extraordinary sacred dance usually reserved for precious life’s milestones. Adorned in ornate, outsized masks, dancers leap across flames to the sound of chanting and drumbeats that reverberate across the island and through you.

Evening at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary – Hobart, Tasmania

As dusk descends in Tasmania, Bonorong Sanctuary awakens. Guests will encounter the island’s remarkable nocturnal life, including Tasmanian devils, quolls, wombats, and friendly, free-roaming kangaroos and wallabies. With the setting sun, the sanctuary comes alive with energy and sound, offering an intimate, after-dark experience found only in this extraordinary corner of the world.

Manta Ray Magic: A Nighttime Snorkeling Adventure – Kona, Hawaii

Under a canopy of stars, sail along Hawaii’s glowing coastline before slipping into the waters of Kona’s famous Manta Ray Village. Illuminated by soft light, graceful manta rays glide effortlessly around guests, creating a breathtaking nocturnal encounter found nowhere else on earth.

Hong Kong Nightlife by Tram

Guests can embark on a scenic evening adventure through Hong Kong, beginning with a ride to Victoria Peak aboard the historic Peak Tram for sweeping nighttime views of the illuminated city and harbor. Then, hop on a classic double-decker tram for a leisurely tour of Hong Kong Island’s vibrant nightlife before returning to the pier.

SHIPBOARD

Stargazing at Sea: Kimberley, Australia, South Pacific & Beyond

Clear skies and minimal light pollution in the Kimberley region and South Pacific and beyond make nightly stargazing a can’t-miss experience for guests bound for remote destinations with Seabourn. Stretch out on deck, relax on your private veranda or take part in guided stargazing sessions with Seabourn’s Expedition Team, who share insights into the constellations and celestial navigation, enhanced by the complimentary Swarovski Optik binoculars available on every suite on the expedition ships.

Northern Lights: Alaska, Greenland & Arctic

Explorations of Alaska, Greenland and the Arctic may provide the opportunity to see the natural phenomenon of Northern Lights, with itineraries offering wake-up calls to maximize viewing opportunities if the lights make an appearance.

Guests can bundle up and head out on deck or enjoy panoramic views indoors at the Constellation Lounge, the highest vantage point on Seabourn’s expedition ships, or at the Observation Bar on the rest of the fleet. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls wrap around the space, offering stunning 270-degree, outward-facing views as far as eyes can see.

DINING UNDER THE STARS ONBOARD

Across the fleet, Seabourn’s signature open-air venues transform at night, offering globally inspired menus, atmospheric settings, and warm ocean breezes to allow you to savor the night:

Select itineraries offer “Dinner Under the Stars” at The Retreat on Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation, featuring an intimate, private setting with cabana seating, live music, and elegant table service under the night sky.
Earth & Ocean, the beloved poolside eatery, becomes a refined al fresco destination where guests dine beneath the stars, savoring inventive dishes infused with international flair.
Solis: Seabourn’s new fine dining restaurant invites guests to indulge in Mediterranean cuisine while enjoying ocean views in an elegant open-air setting.
In-Suite Dining: As the sun sets, Seabourn’s culinary experience extends to the suite, where guests may enjoy a full dinner from The Restaurant, served course by course in the comfort of your suite or private veranda for an intimate evening under the stars.

More About Seabourn:

Seabourn’s six modern ships represent the pinnacle of ultra-luxury ocean and expedition travel. The all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; award-winning dining; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines available at all times; renowned service provided by an industry-leading crew; a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home; a pedigree in expedition travel through the Ventures by Seabourn program and two new ultra-luxury, purpose-built expedition ships. Complimentary Signature Events include Marina Day, Caviar in the Surf, Evening at Ephesus, Shopping with the Chef, Caviar on the Ice, Polar Plunge, and more

Seabourn takes travelers to every continent on the globe, visiting more than 400 ports, including marquee cities and lesser-known ports and hideaways. Guests of Seabourn experience extraordinary offerings and programs, including partnerships with leading entertainers, dining, personal health and wellbeing, and engaging speakers.

START YOUR TRIP!

Images courtesy of Seabourn.

Almost Sold Out – Only 2 Spots Left! Discover the magic of Vietnam & Cambodia with G Adventures

chieniel@travelagencytribes.com (Chieniel) — Wed, 03 Dec 25 21:05:25 +0000

📅 Travel Dates: February 4–20, 2026

🌏 Route: Hanoi ➝ Bangkok

👥 Group Size: Max 16 travelers

Trip Highlights:

- Sail overnight on a traditional junk boat in Halong Bay

- Explore Angkor Wat, Cu Chi Tunnels & the Mekong Delta

- Give back to local communities through G for Good projects

- Khmer cooking class, local dinner & sunrise temple tour

- Entrance fees and local transport included

Price: $3,099 CAD per person (double occupancy)

Flights not included | Travel insurance strongly recommended

Secure your spot today and experience an unforgettable journey through Southeast Asia with McPhail Travel Brandon and G Adventures.

Contact McPhail Travel Brandon:

📞 204-727-2305 📧 info@mcphailtravel.net

https://www.mcphailtravel.net/product/g-adventures-17-days-essential-vietnam-cambodia

Best of India With Nepal

chieniel@travelagencytribes.com (Chieniel) — Wed, 03 Dec 25 21:05:25 +0000

Tour Dates: 29th Oct - 11th Nov 2026

Jaipur: Join your hosts, Jaideo and Devika, for a memorable evening, where you’ll share dinner with their family and explore their beautiful home, gaining an insider's view of life in Jaipur. Listen to personal stories and hear about India’s rich history directly from those who live it, all while savoring the incredible flavors of local cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes like daal (lentil curry), laal maans (spicy meat curry), bati (baked bread with ghee), and phenni (crispy dessert), each prepared with authentic spices and love.

Taj Mahal: View the Taj Mahal, known as one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.

HIGHLIGHTS

13 Breakfast (B) 7 Dinner (D) 3 Lunch (L) 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

DAY 1 - 29 OCTOBER 2026 - Welcome to Kathmandu

Keep a keen eye out for the rainbow-colored prayer flags flapping in the wind as your transfer from Kathmandu Airport takes you to your hotel. Spirituality is the cornerstone of Nepalese culture, and this is revealed in the many shrines and temples that dot its capital, which you'll get to explore in the coming days. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Welcome: Meet your Travel Director at 18:45
Meal(s): Dinner
Hotel(s): Hotel Crowne Imperial

DAY 2 - 30 OCTOBER 2026 - Stupas and Temples of Kathmandu and Patan

Your first stop today is the UNESCO-listed shrine of Swayambhunath. Uncover its history spanning millennia. Admire the galleries of prayer mills and gleaming white stupa, whose gilded spire provides the colorful eyes of Buddha a lofty vantage point from which to survey the surrounding valley.
Share the intricately carved stone façades with the resident monkeys and admire the artistry of Nepalese craftsmanship. You'll see all this as you walk through the remnants of Buddhist and Hindu iconography, said to be around 2000 years old. Proceed to the heart of the old town and Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you will gain a deeper understanding of its role in the centuries of rule over this mountain kingdom. See the traditional pagoda-style architecture reflected in the temples and palaces that surround the square – the Hanuman Dhoka palace complex, the Mahadev Temple, the House of the Goddess Kumari and Taleju Temple.
After some free time for lunch, journey to nearby Patan, renowned for its collection of ancient temples, carvings and palaces, which you will see first-hand during a visit to Patan Durbar Square, a generic name given to plazas and areas located opposite Nepal's old royal palaces. Delve into the ancient Buddhist heritage of the City of Beauty and visit the Krishna Temple and Golden Temple.
Later, MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during your visit to the Tibetan Refugee Camp, which features a handicraft center and provides shelter to the families of Tibetan refugees who fled the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1959. Among these were gifted Tibetan carpet weavers whose talents remain on display today at the Jawalakhel Handicraft Center. You could choose to buy some of the traditional Tibetan handicrafts as a memento of your trip. Then it’s back to Kathmandu for a well-deserved evening at leisure.

Meal(s): Breakfast
Hotel(s): Hotel Crowne Imperial

DAY 5 - 02 NOVEMBER 2026 - Discover the Delights of Old Delhi, Dive Into Culture

Savor the scents of spice as you embark on an exhilarating rickshaw ride, navigating the busy streets of Old Delhi. See the Red Fort, a sandstone fortress which once housed the emperors of the Mughal dynasty for centuries. Next, Dive Into Culture as you ride through the colorful Chandni Chowk market and watch it come to life as the day's trading begins amidst the sounds of enthusiastic salesmen and endless traffic.
Visit Jama Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India. Admire its ornate façades before boarding a waiting vehicle to drive to Raj Ghat, a memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Pay tribute to this beloved figurehead, who led the campaign for India’s independence from Britain. You’ll come face-to-face with the site where he was cremated following his assassination in 1948. Today, the simple square platform of black marble is surrounded by a tranquil park, befitting of its status as a place of contemplation.
Your next stop is Agrasen Ki Baoli, one of the most noteworthy stepwells in Delhi. Hidden amidst the cacophony of Delhi’s streets and business towers, this ancient water reservoir rises from the depths of the earth to stand atop 103 stone steps. Spend a few moments of serenity amidst its centuries-old ornate arches before returning to your hotel for an afternoon of leisure, or consider one of our Optional Experiences.

Meal(s): Breakfast
Hotel(s): Park Plaza CBD Shahdara

DAY 6 - 03 NOVEMBER, 2026 - See the Sights of Delhi, Make Travel Matter

This morning, embark on a guided walking tour to discover the work done by the Salaam Baalak Trust, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This non-profit organization aims to provide a caring environment for street children. Later, we'll walk through the bazaar of Paharganj, rubbing shoulders with the locals who flock to the market to shop every day.
Escape the noise and head to New Delhi, designed and built by the British in the 1920s. Your first stop here is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Humayun's Tomb, the earliest example of Mughal architecture in India. Recently renovated with the gardens restored to their former glory, you’ll see firsthand why it served as the inspiration for the design of the famous Taj Mahal.
Enjoy local flavors for lunch at a restaurant near India Gate, then head to the Qutub Minar complex, also a UNESCO-listed site. This fluted ‘Victory Tower’ is decorated with elaborate inscriptions, geometric carvings and elegant balconies. Returning to your hotel later, drive past Lutyens' Delhi to view the elegant colonial façades leading the British architect Edwin Lutyens left behind on the cityscape. You'll have the rest of the afternoon at leisure, or perhaps join one of our Optional Experiences.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel(s): Park Plaza CBD Shahdara

DAY 7 - 04 NOVEMBER, 2026 Sunset at the Taj Mahal

It’s time to leave Delhi behind, bound for the Uttar Pradesh city of Agra. There are many reasons to love Agra and its own ‘monument to love’, the Taj Mahal, is perhaps the most captivating of all. Marvel at its elegant marble façades awash with the sunset's rose and golden hues. Admire this well-preserved landmark from all sides and take time to contemplate the magnificence of this manmade wonder before re-joining your fellow travelers.
This evening, you could choose to end a memorable day at an optional sound and light show prior to dinner.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel(s): Saura Hotel

DAY 8 - 05 NOVEMBER, 2026 - From the Taj to the Tigers

There’s more to Agra than the Taj Mahal, as you’ll come to discover this morning during your visit to the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort. Stroll through the chambers of a 17th-century royal residence, which served as the principal residence of the influential Mughal emperors until the capital was moved to Delhi. Continue to the long-deserted ‘Ghost Town’ of Fatehpur Sikri, built at great expense by Emperor Akbar in 1569, only to be abandoned soon afterwards due to a lack of water. The city remains beautifully preserved, albeit with an air of melancholy – a rusty-red sandstone masterpiece devoid of inhabitants.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Bharatpur. Then, appreciate first-hand a quintessential travel experience in India as you board a train bound for Ranthambore, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel(s): The Sher Garh

DAY 9 - 06 NOVEMBER, 2026 - Roam Ranthambore, in Search of Tigers

Start the day with an early morning visit to Ranthambore National Park, which was once the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Jaipur. Before the heat of the day sets in and the wilderness awakens, keep a keen eye out for the resident animals and birdlife that find sanctuary here. Have your camera ready in case the park’s tigers make a brief appearance.
Return to your hotel for a late breakfast, followed by some time to relax, or to join an Optional Experience. After lunch, there’s another opportunity to explore the park for a glimpse of the various species of birds and wildlife on your second game drive of the day. Dinner is served at your hotel.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel(s): The Sher Garh

DAY 10 - 07 NOVEMBER, 2026 - Onwards to Jaipur, Dive Into Culture

Continue your journey to Jaipur, the Pink City. After some free time for lunch, join a hand-block printing workshop, one of the most famous traditional art forms of Rajasthan. A Local Specialist will show you the tricks of the trade as you observe how the prints are handmade using small wooden blocks and hone your own block-printing skills.
Later, see the talents of local craftspeople on display during a visit to a local market. From beautifully embroidered textiles to exquisite blue pottery, you’ll find plenty of treasures to admire—and perhaps a special keepsake to bring home.
This evening, enjoy true Indian hospitality at Jaideo and Devika’s guesthouse in Jaipur for a Be My Guest experience. Your hosts, a family from the royal Rajpoot community, welcome you into their home, share stories of life in India and serve traditional dishes like daal and bati for a real taste of Jaipur’s culture.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel(s): Club Mahindra Resort

DAY 11 - 08 NOVEMBER, 2026 - Explore Colorful Jaipur

One of today's highlights is a visit to the UNESCO-listed Amber Fort. But first, stop to admire the red and pink façades of the Palace of Winds, whose latticed windows once revealed the outside world to the sheltered ladies of the royal household.
Continue with a visit to the ornate City Palace, an impressive complex of buildings from different eras and gardens in the heart of the Old City. Enjoy some time for lunch before visiting the UNESCO-listed Jantar Mantar Observatory, featuring the world's largest sundial. Later, perhaps join our optional Aarti ceremony, offering a blessing to one of the Hindu deities and hopefully receiving one in return.
This evening, we'll toast to shared memories over a delicious local Farewell Dinner with those guests ending their journey in Jaipur.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Hotel(s): Club Mahindra Resort

DAY 12 - 09 NOVEMBER, 2026 - Venture to Varanasi, Dive Into Culture, Make Travel Matter

Depart Jaipur this morning and board your included flight to embark on a pilgrimage to the sacred city of Varanasi to explore the city's role as the center of the Hindu religion. There’s a palpable sense that life begins and ends on the shores of Ganga Mata (Mother Ganges), but local spirituality extends beyond the sacred waters of the river. The city is also renowned for its ancient temples and old ghats that lead down to the river. You’ll see all this and more, but first there’s free time for lunch before the sightseeing.
Next, experience a rural way of life during a walk around Weavers Village, where a Local Specialist reveals the centuries-old silk weaving tradition. Your visit during this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience will help the community’s efforts to keep this extraordinary tradition alive. You'll see firsthand how the talented weavers create beautiful silk fabrics. These are used to make the famous Banarasi silk saris, highly sought after for weddings and other special occasions.
Later this evening, feed your soul as you cruise down the River Ganges to witness the ritual of Aarti. Watch as the delicate diya, laden with candles and tiny flowers, floats down the river. After this poignant ritual, return to the hotel for dinner.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Hotel(s): Madin

DAY 13 - 10 NOVEMBER, 2026 - Witness Local Life Along the Ganges

Admire the changing light as the sun rises over the Ganges, and the sights and sounds of Varanasi come to life along the banks of the river. Observe locals taking their morning bath in the holy water and worshipping the rising sun. Afterwards, explore the city on foot, the best way to immerse yourself in the day-to-day of the oldest living city in the world. You’ll have an opportunity to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi's main temple. Demolished and rebuilt many times over its history, the temple is a sight to behold with its towering spire and domes made of pure gold. Return to your hotel for breakfast and some free time.
Perhaps choose to join our Optional Experience to watch a live performance of Indian classical dances known as Kathak.
This afternoon, visit Sarnath, one of the four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Explore the spectacular collection of Buddhist artefacts dating back to the 3rd century BC and see the Lion Capital of Ashoka with its inverted lotus carving, adopted as the national emblem of India. Continue to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Meal(s): Breakfast
Hotel(s): Madin

Best of India With Nepal

29th Oct - 11th Nov 2026

$5150 per person twin share
$920 (on request) single supplement

Included:

All intra-tour air flights
Hotel porterage where available for 1 bag per person.
An expert Travel Director and a separate Driver.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

International Airfares
Passports and applicable visa fees
Charges imposed by third parties
Pre/post/nights
Travel insurance
Items of a personal nature
Beverages
Meals
Sightseeing not detailed on the itinerary
Excess baggage
Travel insurance

Great vacations

cassandra@mcphailtravel.net (Cassandra Jamieson) — Tue, 02 Dec 25 21:09:21 +0000

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cassandra@mcphailtravel.net (Cassandra Jamieson) — Tue, 02 Dec 25 21:09:21 +0000

Cassandra has arranged several trips for the group my husband and I vacation with. She goes above and beyond to find us what we are looking for and ensures that everyone is happy. She goes the extra mile for her clients. I would definitely recommend Cassandra for all your travel needs. She is exceptional!

Refuse to book thru anyone else

cassandra@mcphailtravel.net (Cassandra Jamieson) — Tue, 02 Dec 25 21:09:21 +0000

I have been using Cassandra now for 5 years and I can't imagine booking a trip without her knowledge and expertise. I am the type that says somewhere hot with a beautiful beach between these prices, what can you find me and she has never failed me. The best part is, is that she has traveled so much that if I ask a certain question, she knows the answer from experience and she always tells the truth about all resorts so I know exactly what I am getting when I get there. I just love that I can email her saying this is what I'd like, find me a few resorts and we'll meet to discuss. She was recommended to me and I have referred her to everyone I talk to. She is the best and we love her and will always book with her. She really cares that your vacation is the best for you and always goes above and beyond..

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anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Tue, 02 Dec 25 19:03:26 +0000

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About

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Tue, 02 Dec 25 19:03:26 +0000

McPhail Travel Brandon is a full service, licensed and insured travel agency and has been operating since 1980. We are members of ACTA (Association of Canadian Travel Agencies), IATA (International Airline Transportation Association) and Travelleaders.

Knowledge and Training: Our team of professional travel consultants has travelled to many corners of the world. To keep abreast of the constant changes in travel we continually upgrade our knowledge through training so we are in the best position to advise and recommend options to our clients. And we travel a lot too!

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We offer vacation packages, hundreds of airlines at discounted prices, escorted tours, hotels, car rentals, and cruise vacations.

Book on-line, or in our office and receive professional assistance, reassurance knowing that you haven’t missed an important detail, and someone to assist you should the unexpected occur before, during or after your trip.

Thank You

anabelunga@gmail.com (Anabel Fernandez) — Tue, 02 Dec 25 19:03:26 +0000

Thanks for entrusting us with your trip - we'll be in touch with you soon!