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Meet the Robb Report Travel Masters: 22 Renowned Specialists Who Can Make Your Dream Vacation a Reality

From gray & co's cari gray to scott dunn private’s jules maury, these travel masters have connections to open doors around the globe., the editors, the editors's most recent stories.

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Welcome to the second annual list of Robb Report ’s Travel Masters. 

Travel can be both profound and transformative. Exhilarating and unforgettable. But not always. The difference between a good trip and a great one—perhaps a life-changing one—is so often about tapping the right people to help plan it. It can be hard to know who to trust to create your dream adventure or even a jaunt back to your favorite destination. There are hundreds of travel specialists, after all, most of whom will argue convincingly that they have contacts and connections to open doors around the globe.

Only a handful of operators worldwide, however, have the expertise, clout and ambition to make the unimaginable real. To celebrate them, and to help you, we have brought them together under this Masters of Luxury banner. There are fewer than two dozen, nearly all of them specialists in certain regions or types of journeys. They come with our endorsement. 

We’ve worked closely with the first group on stories over the past year, including asking them to nominate  the hotels  and  suites  they consider the greatest places to stay in the world. We’ll continue to partner with them in  this way as well as on some exciting new initiatives we’ll soon be able to share (bookmark this page). 

As always, if you’re traveling this year, don’t leave home without contacting one of them – and make sure to mention  Robb Report  sent you.

1. Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell, Cazenove & Loyd

The 25-strong, UK-based agency , steered by the three-decade veteran Wilmot-Sitwell, is known for deftly combining adventure travel—think long-haul jaunts to hard-to-reach Asian and African sites—with no-beat-missed luxury. It was an early champion of sustainability: The firm is committed to offsetting the carbon impact of its own research trips via CommuniTree, a Nicaraguan reforestation project (clients can sign up, too).

2. Henry Cookson, Cookson Adventures

Henry Cookson worked as a horse-riding safari guide in Africa before establishing his London-based firm . He’s carved out a niche that focuses on a small number of elaborate adventures; a few dozen custom itineraries are developed on demand each year. If you want a private trip to Antarctica, there may be no team better to organize it: Henry holds the world record for kite-skiing to the Pole of Inaccessibility, and Cookson Adventures was the first private company to take a submersible to Antarctica. The firm’s also offering Octopus , the renowned 413-foot explorer yacht owned by the late Paul Allen, for charter in the polar reaches. 

3. Cari Gray, Gray & Co.

If you’re outdoorsy, ready for anything and prepared to sweat, call Cari Gray. Few manage to design and book high-end active trips with more finesse than the Canadian, who lives in Santa Monica, Calif. Gray combines thrilling, adrenaline-powered programming with much-needed indulgence, whether that’s organizing biking in the mountains of Mallorca or chartering a fishing expedition in the waters off Chile.

4. John Clifford, International Travel Management

John Clifford has almost four decades of experience as a trip designer for high-net-worth folk. Over that time, he’s developed a particular reputation for catering to LGBTQ+ travelers. From his base in San Diego, Calif. , Clifford works worldwide and he can as comfortably score you a last-minute Christmas vacay to Uxua in Trancoso as get you to Iceland’s Hotel Husafell in peak season. “My clients always get the best suite pre-blocked,” he says, “I often handpick it myself.”

5. Gary Portuesi & Jennifer Schwartz, Authentic Explorations

Hungry for Italy? Authentic Explorations  is a go-to for any gourmet keen to indulge in truffles, bresaola and Barolo, among other Italian delicacies. Portuesi co-owns an Italian cooking school in NYC and thus certainly knows his stuff. A buyout of Massimo Bottura’s impossible-to-secure Osteria Francescana is easy enough for this team, but they’ll also happily supply a curated list of restaurants to your tastes. Of course, they’ll take care of booking them, too. AE has a headquarters stateside, as well as satellite offices in Florence and Sicily, giving it a head start on the ground in Italy. The company, formerly known as Authentic Italy, has recently broadened to other European vacation spots in recent years, including Croatia, Spain and Portugal. 

6. Catherine Heald, Remote Lands

If you’re heading to multiple countries in Asia—from Japan to the Maldives and everything in between—there’s no better counsel than that of Catherine Heald. “I have devoted my life to Asia since moving to Hong Kong in 1987,” she says. Heald and her team have expertise in major cities, but the farthest flung spots are a specialty. Think: Japan’s Yakushima or India’s Sikkim. Heald’s trips often support good causes: Clients who travel to Siem Reap, for example, may dig a water well for a local family as part of their journey. Of course, travelers can expect a good dose of luxury, too.

7. Tanya Dalton, Greaves India

Dalton’s firm , with offices in London, Chicago and Delhi, has a firm handle on all things India. The family business, founded by her Mumbai-born grandfather and later run by her mother, has been around for more than four decades. As a result, Dalton has the ability to grant access to closely guarded sites in Southeast Asia’s largest country. Private palace? You got it. She can also wrangle suites in Rajasthani or program tiger-centric safaris. The choice is yours.

8. Cedric Reversade, Unique Properties & Events

Some call him the villa whisperer, and for good reason. Cedric Reversade, who splits his time between London and Paris, has an unparalleled list of the world’s most exclusive private homes in every must-visit destination, from Saint-Tropez to Capri. Many of the lavish pads are only available (discreetly) via his firm. He and business partner Paul Maxime Koskas don’t simply rent out properties, either. The duo’s point of difference has long been the concierge service that comes bundled with the rental ; it’s like having an ultra-connected EA in any place you vacation.

9. Sandy Cunningham, Uncharted

Sandy Cunningham’s firm Uncharted is aptly named, as it specializes in adventures and safaris in remote destinations. She began her career as a safari operator in East Africa, so she knows the game. Cunningham is adept at creating long-haul trips for large groups, too: She once booked a celebrity family into a private island in Seychelles without publicity, for instance. She has also proved she can safeguard a traveler’s privacy: She whisked the same family out a day earlier than planned, under cover of darkness, to avoid alerting any paparazzi.

10. Max Rosenthal & Stacy Fischer-Rosenthal, Fischer Travel

Max Rosenthal (center) is the third generation of his family to join Fischer Travel . The New York-based firm was founded by his grandfather Bill Fischer, but is currently run by his mom Stacy. The 30-strong operation is more like a members-only club than a conventional travel agency, with a $150,000 initiation fee and annual dues of $25,000. For that, the team opens up its little black book to create one-off experiences worldwide. Indeed, it was Fischer Travel clients who were the first to experience Camp Sarika at Amangiri a month before it opened to anyone else. Another client wanted to see Wadi Rum in Jordan, but the local hotel didn’t pass Fischer’s quality control, so the team shipped in 10 staff from the Kempinski in Aqaba to temporarily run the camp at a higher level.

11. Jean Sanz Bernay, JSB Journeys

US native Jean Sanz Bernay of the six-person boutique operation JSB Journeys has an affinity for all things Latin America. “I’ve traveled through, and lived in, every nook and cranny of South and Central America.” She has connections across the continent and continues to cater to all manner of requests. One client, for example, needed a last-minute, after-midnight jewelry store appointment in Lima to pick out his wife’s present, and another requested a strict kosher trip to Argentina with dinner at a local rabbi’s home.

12. Jules Maury, Scott Dunn Private

The elegant, charming Jules Maury grew up globetrotting. She was the daughter of a Dow Chemical exec whose career took him (and his family) all over the world. Maury became a travel specialist by happenstance while living overseas; friends persistently asked her advice due to her insiderish knowledge and fine taste. Now she’s made it her career. Based in London, she runs the  ultra-elite offshoot  of Scott Dunn. Maury’s team focuses on custom itineraries worldwide, with an emphasis on forging access to the impossible.

13. Deborah Calmeyer, Roar Africa

Zimbabwe-born Deborah Calmeyer is the go-to Africa expert for any ultra-high-net-worth traveler. She has on the ground offices in both Nairobi and Cape Town, plus headquarters in NYC. Roar Africa offers traditional safaris, but Calmeyer has also established a standalone division that ups the ante on the already-luxe trips. Roar Privé ‘s focus is villa exclusive rentals in the bush. It also offers private-jet-based safaris , which have proven so popular that they regularly sell out months in advance.  

14. Kevin Jackson, EXP Journeys

When money is truly no object, EXP Journeys comes in. Jackson and his team create bespoke, one-time-only events in extraordinary locations, often with six-figure budgets or higher. Take the dinosaur dig in the southwest, for instance, in which guests helped discover a new species with a well-known paleontologist. Another standout was a dinner arranged in partnership with Navajo Nation that saw travelers break bread with the last living Navajo Code Talker from World War II.

15. Jonathan Alder, Jonathan’s Travels

Florida-based Jonathan Alder is another Africa insider: He once dropped everything to fly to East Africa to scout private aircraft for clients to use on a month-long trip across the continent. He recommends camps like Angama in the Masai Mara: Come for the walking safari, stay for the glass of champagne overlooking the valley. “It’s the exact spot where the movie poster for Out of Africa was taken,” he says. As a bonus, Alder is also an expert in Japan.

16. Stuart Rigg, Southern Crossings

For more than 30 years, Sydney-based Stuart Rigg has helped travelers explore Australia and New Zealand. Logistics and connections of all kinds are tricky Downunder, so his assistance is particularly welcome. There’s virtually no request he can’t find a way to fulfill. In fact, one celebrity tasked Rigg with organizing his 50th birthday at a mansion in Sydney. The manse’s gym had to be fully refitted and the A/C recalibrated to ensure the traveler’s ideal temp. The birthday bash itself was on a private island right in the heart of Sydney Harbour.

17. Julian Harrison, Premier Tours

Julian Harrison was born and raised in South Africa, before working as a guide there. This primed him to run a travel firm focused squarely on the continent. Beyond luxe safaris, Premier Tours offers trips to often-overlooked islands, like the Bazaruto Archipelago. Harrison is also known for working wonders when problems strike; whether that’s commandeering an aircraft to whisk clients from an unexpected flood in Kenya or handling immigration issues when a pet-chewed passport prevented a traveler from entering Johannesburg. (Harrison arranged a special appointment at the US embassy to replace the passport in situ.)

18. Alex Wix, Wix Squared

Longtime luxury travel specialist Alex Wix only launched her firm seven years ago, but she has become a go-to for trips to Morocco (where she’s based), Australia and Asia. Her expertise is in the hard-to-reach spots in those three territories, though it’s in Morocco where her connections are truly unmatched. For example, she can arrange a candlelit canyon dinner near a luxury camp in the picturesque Agafay desert. Wix loves a personal touch, too: She once organized silver and gold Temari  (Japanese ornaments) for one couple traveling to Japan. 

19. Ashley Isaacs Ganz, Artisans of Leisure

Artisans of Leisure is known for its ultra-luxe private tours of Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The NYC-based firm has previously arranged a visit to a nuclear research lab in France (CERN) and a rendezvous with a well-known Bernese Mountain Dog for some Silicon Valley-based millennials. It has also coordinated a wealthy family’s private-jet adventure to Greece, France and the UK. If you’ve always wanted to score the best room at the Ritz Paris or Claridge’s in London, Ashley Ganz can guarantee it.

20. Sunil Metcalfe, Black Tomato

London-born, Metcalfe shuttles between the UK and the US, servicing ultra high net worth clients on both sides of the Atlantic for Black Tomato . The firm, founded in 2005, was intended to disrupt the stuffily old-fashioned approach that dominated luxe travel, intending to broaden its appeal to a younger moneyed clientele. It remains one of the buzziest operators thanks to the cachet and connections of Metcalfe; he’s arranged everything from a pop-up spa in the heart of the Yucatan at Chichen Itza for a group of friends keen for RR&R (ruins, rest and relaxation) to an impromptu flyby from the Norwegian Air Force Fleet while fishing-mad clients cooked their catch in Norway ‘s Lofoten Islands.

21. Jaclyn Sienna India, Sienna Charles

Jaclyn Sienna India’s clients pay an annual retainer to keep her on speed dial, as she doubles as a lifestyle concierge and travel agent. If a villa on the Côte d’Azur in summer or a yacht in Sardinia’s seas is your focus, consider adding the Beverly Hills-based firm to your contacts. Sienna focuses on villas more than hotels, explaining: “It’s hard to get someone who has three homes worth $30 million or more each excited about a new hotel—hotels don’t offer the level of service they once did.” Another key differentiator when it comes to Sienna’s programming is the fact that all the guides she recommends have been sourced first-hand. That way, she can vouch for their quality without concern.

22. Ileana Von Hirsch, Five Star Greece

Need a villa worthy of Onassis in his pomp? Want to access the Acropolis in ways that even VIPs can’t wrangle? Last minute charter to Corfu a summertime emergency? Just ask von Hirsch, whose expertise and connections in Greece are unparalleled. She stumbled into the business when she and her sisters inherited what she calls “an extravagantly beautiful but impractical beach house” on a beach there, and had to find a way to commercialize it if they were to keep it (It didn’t hurt that Madonna was one of their first renters) von Hirsch quickly became the go-to broker for friends’ high-end villas, before expanding into all things Greece on both land and sea.

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10 things you need to know before visiting Jordan

Nov 30, 2023 • 7 min read

From staying safe to understanding local etiquette, this guide to Jordan for first-timers will help you plan the perfect trip © Stefan Tomic / Getty Images

A small country that's big on hospitality, ancient history and culture – with numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites – Jordan offers endless opportunities for adventure.

From afar, it’s often unfairly lumped in with regional conflict and, as such, overlooked by wary travelers. But in reality, it’s a welcoming and peaceful destination not to be missed.

Start planning the trip of your life today with our ten top tips for first-time visitors to Jordan.

1. Jordan is a safe place to visit

Despite being located in a region with a history of conflict, Jordan is a friendly oasis that’s open and inviting to visitors. Hospitality reigns supreme, violent crime is extremely rare, and Gallup’s 2022 Law and Order Report ranks Jordan in the top ten for countries where people feel safe walking alone at night.

While you should take the usual precautions you would anywhere – purchase travel and health insurance, don’t carry large sums of cash, and keep valuables locked in a safe – fear should not be a factor when planning a trip to Jordan.

2. Hospitality is a deeply rooted tradition

Don’t let the "Jordanian frown" fool you. Although you may be met with furrowed brows and what appear to be unfriendly faces, you’ll quickly learn just beneath the tough exterior of a resting frown face typically lies a fun-loving attitude and a deeply rooted tradition of hospitality that can be traced back to Bedouin culture.

It’s not uncommon to be invited for tea or even a meal by shopkeepers and strangers you meet. " Ahlan wa sahlan'" (welcome), locals will say. "Where are you from? Welcome to Jordan."

3. When greeting someone, follow their lead

You’ll see people of the same gender greet each other with handshakes, hugs and even multiple air kisses beside each cheek. But if you put your hand out for a shake or lean in for a hug, you may be left hanging.

Out of respect for their religion and spouse, some Muslims will not touch people of a different gender unless they are related by blood. Don’t take it personally – be prepared and open to learning the local traditions.

When meeting someone, you can stand, say hello, smile and then let them take the lead. If they extend a hand or lean in for a hug, you can do the same. If they keep their hands at their sides or put their right hand over their heart rather than reaching out, that’s their way of acknowledging you.

4. It’s not always hot and sunny in Jordan

A common misconception about Jordan is that it’s always hot, dry and sunny. While that may be the case if you visit between May and September, Jordan does have a winter season .

From November to February, the country receives a great deal of cold and cloudy days, rain and even snow, sleet and hail on occasion. Temperatures can hover under 10ºC (50ºF) during the day and drop to freezing in the night (32ºF).

If you’re traveling from mid-October to mid-March, be sure to pack a waterproof jacket and warm layers and monitor the weather. Flash floods are extremely dangerous, and even Petra is known to close during inclement weather.

5. Alcohol is legal, but heavily taxed

If you’re in search of sundowners, you can find alcohol at a number of restaurants, bars and, of course, liquor stores in the larger cities like Amman and Aqaba , as well as Christian towns such as Madaba and Fuheis (where you’ll find Carakale , Jordan’s first and only craft beer microbrewery).

St George and Jordan River also produce their own wine in the country but be prepared to pay a pretty penny for your libations – although legal, alcohol tends to carry hefty taxes.

Bear in mind that Muslim-owned properties and Islamic holidays may affect how readily alcohol is available. For example, it’s illegal to sell alcohol anywhere in the country during Ramadan (with the exception of some high-end hotels), and most camps in Wadi Rum don’t serve alcohol at all (but you can often bring your own).

Call ahead to inquire about availability and any restrictions, and if you do drink, be mindful of your hosts and consume in moderation.

6. Dress respectfully

Jordan is a Muslim-majority country, but Christians, Jews and people of various beliefs also coexist peacefully here. There is no law requiring women to wear hijab, but there is an expectation that visitors dress respectfully – it’s best to avoid low-cut and shoulder-baring tops, short skirts, and shorts.

If you plan to visit a place of worship, both men and women must cover their knees and shoulders, and women are typically expected to cover their hair, chest and neck.

But covering up doesn’t mean dressing down: Jordanians are generally quite image-conscious and well-dressed. Some restaurants even enforce a sophisticated dress code, particularly in Amman .

Keep that in mind when packing and feel free to flaunt your personal style (respectfully) if you’ll be spending time in the capital.

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7. Smoking shisha and cigarettes is common

Alcohol may be in somewhat short supply, but there is argeeleh (shisha) aplenty. For better or worse, smoking shisha is a national pastime, and you’ll find argeeleh cafes across the country. Cigarette smoking is also widely accepted – although it is banned in numerous indoor public spaces, the bans are often ignored by locals.

Travelers who smoke will be in good company, but the smoking culture in Jordan can prove challenging for nonsmokers and those with health conditions. When booking rooms, tours, restaurants and transportation, ask whether non-smoking options are available.

8. Bring a reusable filtration water bottle

Tap water is usually not drinkable in Jordan, though some higher-end hotels have their own water purification systems. Environmental education and recycling facilities are scarce, and you will see plastics and other rubbish littering the otherwise lovely landscapes.

Local businesses and organizations with an eco-aware approach and plastic-free policies like those of Feynan Ecolodge , the Jordan Trail and Eco Hikers are working to teach and inspire locals and visitors with their environmental initiatives.

Travelers to Jordan can be part of the solution by supporting these businesses and carrying their own reusable filtration water bottles (such as GRAYL ) and reusable utensils.

9. Jordan is proof that big things come in small packages

Jordan is smaller than Portugal or the US state of Maine, but within its borders, you’ll find endless adventure possibilities, ancient history and culture, nature reserves, and community-based immersive experiences (such as those provided by Baraka Destinations , Engaging Cultures and Experience Jordan ).

There are also five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the architectural wonders of Petra and the expansive deserts and towering rocks of Wadi Rum.

If you’re eligible for a visa on arrival to Jordan, purchase the Jordan Pass to gain entrance to some of the best sites, castles and museums including Petra, Wadi Rum, the Temple of Hercules in Amman , the Roman ruins at Jerash and Ajloun Castle .

Keep in mind that although Jordan is small in size, the terrain is varied, roads may be rough and traffic can delay your plans. Traveling to sites may take more time than you anticipate, so plan accordingly and try not to schedule every moment of your itinerary. Immerse yourself in the experiences and allow time for the unexpected.

10. You’re going to fall in love with Jordan

Maybe it will be the moment you fall asleep under a blanket of stars or stand in awe of enormous ancient stones. Or perhaps it will hit you when you reach the peak of a mountain and take in the view, far away from the rush of the city.

It might be the laughter and stories you share with your new Bedouin friends. Or the taste of tea brewed with sage and sugar over a campfire. It could be in the fresh mansaf (the Jordanian national dish of lamb, rice and yogurt sauce) made with love by your hosts and eaten with your hands. Or it could be when you hear the muezzin’s call to prayer while watching birds dive and swoop against a sunset sky.

There will be a moment – or more likely, many moments – when the magic of Jordan seeps into your soul. Jordan will welcome you, challenge you and it may very well change you. And you’ll find yourself making plans for your next trip before you even finish your first.

This article was first published Aug 20, 2019 and updated Nov 30, 2023.

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Jordan Travel Advisory

Travel advisory september 12, 2024, jordan - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise increased caution in Jordan due to  terrorism . Some areas have increased risk. 

Do not travel to:

• Within 3.5 km of the Jordan-Syria border and east of the town of Ruwayshid in the direction of the Iraq border due to  terrorism and armed conflict.
• Designated Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to  Government of Jordan restrictions on entry into these camps .
• Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to  terrorism  and  crime.

Reconsider travel to:

• Ma’an City and some areas of Ma’an Governorate due to  terrorism  and  crime .

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue to plot possible attacks in Jordan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.  While Jordan itself is relatively stable, due to high tensions in the region, the security environment remains complex and can change quickly.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Jordan.

If you decide to travel to Jordan:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Avoid demonstrations and protests.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Obtain comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  X/Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Jordan.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

The Border with Syria and Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Jordan's border with Syria and Iraq given the continued threat of cross-border violence, including the risk of terrorist attacks.

All U.S. government personnel must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions for all official travel within 3.5 km of the Jordan-Syria border, and all travel must occur during daylight hours only.  U.S. government personnel must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions for official travel east of the town of Ruwayshid towards the Iraq border, and all travel must occur during daylight hours only.

Personal travel by U.S. government employees to these border areas is not authorized.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Refugee Camps – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Syrian refugee camps in Jordan due to Government of Jordan restrictions on entry into these camps.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to the four designated Syrian refugee camps listed below (formerly all refugee camps in Jordan) must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions.

• Azraq Syrian Refugee Camp, Azraq, Zarqa
• Za’atari Syrian Refugee Camp, Al Zatryah, Mafraq
• King Abdullah Park Syrian Refugee Camp, Ramtha, Irbid
• Emirati Jordanian Syrian Refugee Camp (Murijep al Fhoud), Al Jadedah, Zarqa

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these refugee camps is not authorized. 

Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a Neighborhood of Ayn Basha – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Zarqa, Rusayfah and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to terrorism and crime.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to Zarqa, Rusayfah and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions, and all travel must occur during daylight hours only.  U.S. government personnel may transit through these cities on major highways during daylight hours only.

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these cities is not authorized.

Ma’an City and some areas of Ma’an Governorate – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel to Ma’an city, all areas of Ma’an Governorate east of Highway 15 (“The Desert Highway”), and all areas of Ma’an Governorate within two kilometers to the west of Highway 15 due to terrorism and crime.

All U.S. government personnel on official travel to these areas must adhere to U.S. Embassy travel restrictions.  When traveling at night, U.S. government personnel on official travel must use major highways.  

Personal travel by U.S. government personnel to these areas is permitted during daylight hours only, with the exception of direct transit through these areas, which may also occur during hours of darkness.

Travel Advisory Levels

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Vacation Packages Ideas

Rome - Florence - Venice by Train

7 nights from $409*

Our #1 Bestseller and the perfect introduction to Italy! . Visit these fascinating cities starting in: Rome (the Eternal City, with its stunning architecture like the Colosseum and the Roman Forum and delicious food) after that, travel north to Florence (capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, is home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture) and finally, to Venice (set on gorgeous canals, intimate Gondola rides will guide you past sumptuous palaces and under sculpted bridges). Travel between these cities by very convenient train rides which allow you an opportunity to observe the lovely country side. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Rome
• Train from Rome to Florence
• Hotel for 2 nights in Florence
• Train from Florence to Venice
• Hotel for 2 nights in Venice

Singapore and Bali by Air

7 nights from $479*

Embark on an exhilarating journey in South East Asia, where the vibrant souls of Singapore and Indonesia await your eager exploration!. Brace yourself for a whirlwind in Singapore City - a mesmerizing tapestry of cultures and traditions where you will marvel at an awe-inspiring skyline adorned with magnificent architectural wonders, each narrating a unique tale of innovation and elegance. And just when you think you've unearthed all the treasures this journey has to offer, prepare to experience spectacular Bali (an ethereal paradise known as 'the island of the gods'). Behold the sheer majesty adorned with a thousand temples, each exuding a spiritual mystique that transcends time and space). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 4 nights in Singapore City
• Flight from Singapore City City to Bali (Denpasar)
• Hotel for 3 nights in Bali (Denpasar)

Medellin and Cartagena by Air

6 nights from $239*

Colombia Essentials! . Enjoy Colombia's second most important city; Medellin (the City of the Eternal Spring ; (known by its coffee plantations, flower farms, funny Botero's oversized statues, cultural encounters, the warmth of its people and the amazing views that are accompanied by clear blue skies and beautiful sunsets. Medellin is the city's enviable nightlife ) ; and after that, catch a flight to Cartagena (colonial city on the shores of the sea, and one of the most visited cities. The historic walled city remains alongside the ultramodern skyscraper-filled Bocagrande. Cartagena is famous for its castles, culture, history and colorful buildings as well as the iconic palenqueras –Afro-Colombian women in bright dresses selling fruit in Cartagena`s plazas-). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Medellin
• Flight from Medellin to Cartagena
• Hotel for 3 nights in Cartagena

Popular Vacation Packages

Europe, middle east & africa destinations ›, asia & south pacific destinations ›, latin america and caribbean destinations ›, europe, middle east & africa destinations ›.

Paris and Prague by Air

6 nights from $419*

Combine two of the most exciting countries in Europe: France and The Czech Republic with this vacation. Visit Paris (the romantic City of Lights; an enduring city, home to rich history - museums, architecture, shopping, fine food and wine) and Prague (known for its Old Town Square, with colorful baroque buildings, Gothic churches and its Medieval Astronomical Clock). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Paris
• Flight from Paris to Prague
• Hotel for 3 nights in Prague

Lisbon and Porto by Train

6 nights from $329*

Experience beautiful Portugal through two of its most popular destinations!. Begin your vacation in Lisbon (the dazzling capital with an ancient fortress at its heart with charming neighborhoods, local festivals, nightlife, and delectable food) and then, take a train to Porto (the former residence of the Royal Family; visit medieval cathedrals, concert halls, the national library and museums with breathtaking art treasures and porto wines!). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Train from Lisbon to Porto
• Hotel for 3 nights in Lisbon
• Hotel for 3 nights in Porto

Prague - Vienna - Budapest by Train

9 nights from $599*

Our most popular combo for Czech Republic , Austria and Hungary !. Visit Prague (`The City of a Hundred Spires` with 1,000 years of art and architecture), Vienna (City of music, cafes, waltzes, parks, pastries, and wine with stately streets and Baroque palaces) and Budapest (two cities in one: Buda built upon hills, Castle Hill and Gellert Hill and Pest, as flat as a pancake, the perfect contrast between the right and left banks, a vibrant city). Transportation between cities by train. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotels and activities.

• Train from Prague to Vienna
• Hotel for 3 nights in Vienna
• Train from Vienna to Budapest
• Hotel for 3 nights in Budapest

Asia & South Pacific Destinations ›

Oahu and Kauai by Air

6 nights from $679*

Fantastic Hawaiian Duo for and unforgettable holiday!. Visit: The Gathering Place; Oahu (the third largest island and most visited of the Hawaiian chain. The Island is primarily defined by the state capital of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and the world-famous Waikiki Beach . This vibrant island offers the best of both worlds-tropical verdure and a lively night scene). Continue, flying to The Garden Island; Kauai (an island known for its natural beauty and its dramatic, beautiful sites; such as: The Waimea Canyon and The Coconut Coast . Gorgeous mountains, waterfalls, white sand beaches, sugarcane fields, and beachside cliffs you will find along the island). This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Oahu (Honolulu)
• Flight from Oahu (Honolulu) to Kauai
• Hotel for 3 nights in Kauai
• Hotel Hawaii taxes

Tokyo - Kyoto - Osaka by Train

9 nights from $559*

Japan at its best!. Start your trip in Tokyo , the world`s most populous metropolis and recently awarded as the city with best Helpfulness of locals`, `Nightlife`, `Shopping` and Best Local Transportation. Then take the train to Kyoto , known as the City of the Ten Thousand Shrines for a reason! Since it holds about a quarter of Japan`s National Treasures and popular festivals. Last but not least go to Osaka , famous for its delicious traditional food along with its Castle and renowned Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, definitely a trip not to be missed!. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Tokyo
• Train from Tokyo to Kyoto
• Hotel for 3 nights in Kyoto
• Train from Kyoto to Osaka
• Hotel for 3 nights in Osaka

Bangkok and Phuket by Air

6 nights from $349*

Explore Thailand's Beauty! . Discover Bangkok , the capital city, with its bustling mix of old and new; blending traditional culture and religion with all the luxury conveniences of a modern city. Continue this sensory experience with a flight to the idyllic Phuket , The Pearl of the South, a rain forested, mountainous island in the Andaman Sea, with some of Thailand's most popular beaches, mainly situated along the clear waters of the western shore. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 3 nights in Bangkok
• Flight from Bangkok to Phuket
• Hotel for 3 nights in Phuket

Lima - Sacred Valley - Machu Picchu - Cuzco

7 nights from $839*

Our Peru #1 Best-Seller! . Visit Lima for a chance to taste its colonial and cosmopolitan sites and its unique and world renowned peruvian cuisine. Next, fly to Cuzco airport and immediately continue to the Sacred Valley , a magical land where Indian Markets and Incan Constructions mix with Corn Fields, the Andes Mountains, Picturesque Towns, Salt Mines and a Legendary river. Proceed to Machu Picchu , the new Wonder of the World. Finally, visit Cuzco City to discover more Incan and Colonial sites and enjoy lots of shopping and endless nightlife. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 2 nights in Lima
• Flight from Lima to Cuzco
• Transfer from Airport in Cuzco City to Hotel in Sacred Valley
• Hotel for 2 nights in Sacred Valley
• Full day Machu Picchu tour including round-trip train ride, all transfers, guided tour and lunch.
• Hotel for 1 night in Machu Picchu
• Hotel for 2 nights in Cuzco
• Transfer from Hotel in Cuzco to Airport

Mexico City and Cancun by Air

6 nights from $399*

A favorite vacation package that allows you to experience the best of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Combine: Mexico City (high-altitude capital of Mexico, known for its historic sites such as Templo Mayor and more) and Cancun (best-known for its white sand beaches, near-perfect weather, and bright blue waters, is the Acapulco of Mexico's Gulf Coast). A flight connects these destinations. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Hotel for 2 nights in Mexico City
• Flight from Mexico City to Cancun
• Hotel for 3 nights in Cancun

Arenal Volcano and Manuel Antonio (Self Drive)

6 nights from $559*

Our #1 Self Drive Itinerary in Costa Rica! . A fun route to experience Costa Rica. From San Jose Airport drive along the country visiting: Arenal Volcano (youngest and one of the most active stratovolcano in Costa Rica , near Lake Arena. Is a place that begs to be explored; rivers wind through bountiful rainforests, waterfalls crash amidst inspiring canyons, and hot springs gurgle up beneath the base of an impressive volcano) and after that, to Manuel Antonio (home to a namesake national Park in Quepos; Manuel Antonio is a magical combination of rainforest, beaches, hills, and coral reefs, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in the world and one of the most visited in Costa Rica). Drive back to San Jose Airport to catch your flight back home. This is a flexible vacation package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

• Rental Car for for 7 days. Pick up and Drop off: San Jose City Airport
• Hotel for 3 nights in Arenal Volcano
• Hotel for 3 nights in Manuel Antonio-Quepos

Driving Time San Jose City Airport - Arenal Volcano: 2 hrs. 37 mins. approx. Arenal Volcano - Manuel Antonio-Quepos: 4 hrs. 50 mins. approx. Manuel Antonio-Quepos - San Jose City Airport: 2 hrs. 36 mins. approx.

Other Noteworthy Vacations

Reunion island - mahe island - praslin island by air.

6 nights from $1,059*

Emilia Romagna (Bologna - Rimini - Ravenna - Ferrara) and Venice by Train

12 nights from $569*

Zurich and Grindelwald (Self Drive)

7 nights from $979*

Anchorage and Fairbanks

6 nights from $549*

Iguazu Falls (Argentina) - Buenos Aires - Bariloche - Cordoba - El Calafate by Air

11 nights from $1,069*

Lamanai - Hopkins Beach

6 nights from $1,959*

Top - Sellers Vacation Packages' Reviews

You did a greqt job of keeping us informed and uptodate. Thank you. Will travel with you again in futur ...

Hawaii Big Island (Kona) and Oahu by Air

6 nights from $989*

The Hilton Waikola King's Club was fantastic. The property was beautiful, and everyone was welcoming and polite. Our roo ...

Arenal Volcano - Monteverde - Guanacaste Beaches

8 nights from $1,029*

Paradise Hot Springs was incredible. Beautiful setting below Arenal. Best room I've ever stayed in. Hot spring pools wer ...

In the Spotlight

All europe, middle east & africa trips, historic rome - florence - venice.

11 nights from $869*

The Best of Literary London - Edinburgh - Dublin

9 nights from $1,269*

Historic Cairo and Istanbul

8 nights from $879*

Nairobi and Zanzibar Island for Outdoor Enthusiasts

8 nights from $1,259*

The Best of Oslo - Copenhagen - Stockholm

9 nights from $1,569*

All Asia & South Pacific trips

Bangkok - chiang mai - phuket by air, the best of auckland and queenstown plus rotorua.

8 nights from $1,359*

Relax in Fiji (Nadi and the Coral Coast)

6 nights from $819*

Maui and Kauai by Air

6 nights from $879*

All Latin America and Caribbean trips

Miami and puerto rico by air, tulum and merida via chichen itza.

5 nights from $539*

Rio de Janeiro - Iguassu Falls (Brazil) - Buenos Aires

8 nights from $509*

Panama and Aruba by Air

6 nights from $789*

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Europe, middle east & africa.

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from $4,395 per person

does not include air

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from $4,840 per person

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April 13 - 20

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from $1,899 per person

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from $7,199 per person

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Bonaire at Divi Flamingo

June 22 - 30

from $2,375 per person

Belize at Blackbird Caye

July 13 - 20

from $3,655 per person

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August 3 - 10

from $3,050 per person

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August 31 - Sept 7

from $2,725 per person

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from $3,450 per person

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from $1,100 per person

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from $3,095 per person

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from $2,495 per person

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from $4,595 per person

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from $1,925 per person

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• Guide to Russia
• Experience Russia

Best Places to Visit in Nizhny Novgorod

What are the best places to visit in nizhny novgorod.

• For medieval history : The Novgorod Kremlin, the nucleus of the city and a beacon of Russian power. Visit the fortress’s 13 towers, walk its walls for views of the city and river, and visit the exhibitions inside
• For industrial history : Visit the Open-Air Locomotive Museum to explore steam trains from the first half of the 20th century, or the GAZ History Museum to learn about the Gorky Automobile Factory, where the first Russian tank was created
• For beautiful streets and buildings : Nizhny is a marvel of contrasting architectural styles. Explore Rozhdestvenskaya and Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Streets, admire the State Bank, merchant mansions and Main Fair, and keep an eye out for many quirky statues
• For waterfront relaxation : Explore the Lower and Upper Volga Embankments, admire beautiful views from the Fedorovsky Embankment and cable car, and visit Russia’s longest stairs at the Chkhalov Staircase
• For religious sites : Visit the spectacular Stroganov Church, the more austere Spassky Old Fair Cathedral, the famous Church of the Nativity, and the Pechersky Ascension Monastery, one of the city’s spiritual centres
• For artistic highlights : Visit the State Art Museum’s collection of 15th-20th century European art, and discover the National Centre of Contemporary Art in the Kremlin’s former arsenal For folk culture: See traditional village architecture and learn about folk life at the Shchelokovsky Farm ethnographic museum, and discover the famous folk handicraft, Khokhloma, at the Khokhlomskaya Rospis factory and museum

Founded in 1221, Nizhny Novgorod became one of Russia’s most distinguished political and economic centres. Although a closed Soviet city from 1945 until 1991, today it is the fifth largest city in Russia, a vibrant hub attracting visitors from all over the world. Walk the historical streets and wide embankments, visit cultural and artistic institutions, and learn about the industrial past and folk heritage of one of Russia’s oldest cities. What are the best things to see and do in Nizhny Novgorod?

Learn about Nizhny Novgorod’s medieval history

Address: Ploshad  Minina and Pozharskogo, Nizhy Novgorod

Discover Nizhny Novgorod’s industrial history

Address: 1V, Utitsa Gorokhovetskaya,  Nizhy Novgorod Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00 Mon-Sun

For those more interested in four-wheeled vehicles, take a trip to the GAZ History Museum to learn about the Gorky Automobile Plant, a joint venture between the Soviets and Ford and the production site of the first Soviet tank. See over 35,000 exhibits, including cars and military vehicles.

Address: 95, Prospekt Lenina,  Nizhy Novgorod Opening hours: 09:00 - 16:00 Mon-Sat

Explore the city streets and architectural marvels

Must-visit spots include the lively Rozhdestvenskaya and Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Streets, home to many restaurants, bars, and historical buildings. Some of Nizhny’s most striking architectural wonders include the State Bank, Rukavishnikov Estate, and the Nizhny Novgorod Fair, an enormous Classicist structure. This building housed the largest fair in the Russian Empire, with thousands of stalls; inside the building today you’ll find exhibitions about the history of Nizhny Novgorod.

Keep an eye out for many interesting statues dotted around Nizhny Novgorod’s streets – in particular the Gromozeka book characters, the Veselaya koza (funny goat), the monument to author Jules Verne in his iconic hot air balloon, and the monument to Minin and Pozharsky, defenders of Moscow against the Poles (whose remains lie in the Kremlin cathedral).

Enjoy the peaceful waterfront

Visit the city’s religious sites

Discover Nizhny Novgorod’s artistic highlights

Address: 3, Kreml, Nizhny Novgorod

At the other end of the artistic spectrum, a visit to the Arsenal National Centre of Contemporary Art is highly recommended. Nizhny’s only museum dedicated to modern art is housed in the former Kremlin arsenal. More than a museum, it is a research and cultural centre dedicated to modern artistic development, offering not just exhibitions but concerts, theatre performances, film nights and more.

Address: 6, Kreml, Nizhny Novgorod

Get a glimpse of Russian folk culture and traditions

Shchelokovsky farm.

Visit this fascinating ethnographic museum to learn about the history of everyday life and folk customs of people living in the Nizhny Novgorod Volga region, and admire the wooden village architecture spanning from the 1600 – 1800s. While there, take a stroll around the surrounding forest and discover its wildlife, protected by local environmental programmes.

Address: 41, Gorbatovskaya Ulitsa, Nizhny Novgorod Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:00 Tue-Sun

Khokhlomskaya Rospis

Address: 18, Ulitsa Chkalova, Semenov, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast Opening hours: 08:00 - 17:00 Mon-Fri

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By city rail

The City Rail connects areas where there are no metro lines. Connects with the subway at the Moscow railway station. It has 2 lines: Sormovskaya and Priokskaya. The fare by train costs 28 rubles. According to the Citicard Transport Card, the fare is 26 rubles. Also by train you can get to the nearest suburb, or transfer to suburban trains to Dzerzhinsk, Bor, Semenov or Arzamas.

By bus and trolleybus

As of May 2017 in each district of the city there are several city bus routes. The number of trolleybus routes is much less. In one district of the city there are 1-2 trolleybus routes. Trolleybus routes are completely absent in the Leninsky city district. It is worth noting that trolleybuses do not connect the Lower City to the Upper. This is because the trolleybuses do not have enough power to climb the mountain.

The trolleybus network is divided into 3 parts:

• The upper trolleybus network (it unites all three districts - Nizhegorodsky, Sovetsky and Prioksky) with a turning circle on the Minin Square, near the Kremlin.
• The lower trolleybus network (connects Kanavinsky, Moskovsky and Sormovsky districts)
• The Avtozavod trolleybus network (connects all the distant sleeping microdistricts among themselves)

Throughout the city, land trams run. The longest route of all is 417. It connects the outskirts of Avtozavodsky district with the Moskovsky Rail Terminal. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The route passes through the sleeping areas (approximately 75% of the way). Also in remote neighborhoods there are routes of several more trams, but in most cases, they are in the Upper City. By the way, you can reach there by tram 27 or 10 directly from the Moscow railway station.

By marshrutka

Marshrutkas do not stop at every stop. To indicate your intention to exit a marshrutka, press a button and to indicate your intention to enter a marshrutka en-route, you need to wave your hand.

Nizhny Novgorod has not very developed bicycle infrastructure. Special bike paths exist only on the Upper-Volga and Lower-Volga embankments and on Rozhdestvenskaya Street.

The upper city is very hilly and full of steep inclines and even many locals will get off their bicycles and push their bikes up the hill by foot. Drivers can be reckless and pose a danger to cyclists. The roads can also be icy during the winter. City cyclists solve this problem by replacing summer tires with winter tires.

Also, in 2017 the implementation of a new integrated transport scheme of the city began. It provides for a large number of bicycle paths in the Upper City (including on Bolshaya Pokrovskaya Street) and in the Lower City.

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