As a traveler, your bucket list is probably overflowing with the names of new countries and cities to visit. Even though traveling to a new destination is exciting, most places have widely different cultures, landscapes, or cuisines depending on which region you choose to explore. Therefore, there’s likely so much more to discover in each country you’ve already been to. Here are the top five countries that you should put back on your bucket list in order to experience even more of what they have to offer.
Ireland
Where
You probably visited the bustling capital of Dublin and walked the quaint streets of Galway during your first trip to Ireland. Have a look into much more of Ireland’s rugged, yet beautiful landscapes with our brand-new tour, Ireland: The Wild Atlantic Way.
Why
Discover the nature and lesser-known locales of the Emerald Isle. Visit Glenveagh National Park, Achill Island, and the Cliffs of Moher while on this trip and open your eyes to a new side of Ireland. In addition, this tour includes a stop in the historic and unique capital city of Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Fun Fact
While it shares a border with the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom. The discussion of whether or not Northern Ireland should remain part of the United Kingdom or become part of the Republic Ireland is a large, and tumultuous, part of the country’s history.
Italy
Where
Italy is hands down a favorite destination for both new and experienced travelers. Once you’ve visited hot spots such as Venice, Florence, and Rome, say ciao to some of the country’s hidden gems on our Puglia & Southern Italy tour.
Why
Eat Neapolitan pizza in Naples and sip limoncello in Sorrento or Amalfi. On this tour, you’ll be able to try these Italian staples in the areas where they originated all while taking in the history and charm of Southern Italy. Life is a little slower, the sun is a little warmer, but the feeling of la dolce vita is still ever present.
Fun Fact
Puglia is the olive oil capital of Italy, producing around 40% of the country’s culinary staple.
United States
Where
Sometimes the last tour you think to go on is the one that visits your own backyard. Find out what makes the natural landscapes of the United States so spectacular with our U.S. National Parks: The Grand Canyon to Yellowstone tour.
Why
You may have already traveled to the historic American South or coastal New England, but there is a certain atmosphere that makes the western United States quintessentially American. The U.S. National Parks offer up incredible scenery and adventure no matter what time of year you go. Discover the unique beauty of six national parks while immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture.
Fun Fact
Each fall we offer this tour with the inclusion of the Albuquerque Balloon Festival if you’re interested in experiencing even more adventure. Attend the world’s largest hot air balloon festival and gaze into the New Mexico sky as hundreds of hot air balloons are released at sunrise.
France
Where
The twinkling Eiffel Tower, art aplenty in the Louvre, and winding streets in each arrondissement are just some of the reasons many travelers book a trip to Paris. If you’re ready to experience another side of this iconic locale, head out to the countryside in our Food & Wine: France through Bordeaux & the Loire Valley tour.
Why
On this tour, you’ll have an immersive experience learning about the food and wine that influences cuisine all across France. Sip Cognac in the city of Jarnac and sample foie gras at an open market in Périgueux. You’ll feel the heartbeat of France’s history while also being exposed to the country’s culinary traditions.
Fun Fact
While most wines are named after the type of grapes used to produce them, French wines are named after the soil where the grapes are grown.
Spain
Where
It’s hard not to fall in love with the paella, sunshine, and music that ooze out of every city in Spain. Experience the best of the country on our Grand Tour of Spain.
Why
This tour highlights Spain’s charismatic locals and cosmopolitan cities: from the museums of Madrid to the sands of the Costa del Sol to the Moorish landmarks of Andalusia. To top it off, let’s not forget about the incredible art and architecture in Barcelona and Madrid, Spain’s cultural capitals. You can sample it all, traversing the country from north to south and back again.
Fun Fact
Spain is the proud home of nearly 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including many works by renowned Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudí.
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