Escorted Tours in Greece
Greece is a country with a rich history and culture that is full of beautiful places to visit. This blog post will discuss some of Greece’s best places to travel. There is something for everyone in this amazing country.
Why Greece?
Greece is a renowned tourist destination for a reason. This beautiful country has something to offer everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an action-packed city break. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and rich culture, it’s no wonder that Greece is such a popular travel destination.
Greece has something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover, a culture vulture, or an adventurer, Greece is the perfect destination for you. This country has many incredible places to explore, from its bustling cities to its idyllic islands. Greece is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a holiday full of excitement, relaxation, and adventure.
Where To Spend Time in Greece?
There are so many incredible places to visit in Greece that it can be tough to know where to start. However, here are just a few of the must-see destinations in this amazing country:
The Greek Isles: The Greek Isles are a popular tourist destination. It’s a paradise with stunning scenery, azure waters, and sandy beaches. It’s perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. You can take a ferry from Athens to the Greek Isles.
Athens: Athens is the capital city of Greece and is full of history and culture. This vibrant city is home to some of the world’s most famous historical sites, such as the Acropolis. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, Athens is a must-see for anyone visiting the country. Try some of the delicious local cuisines in Athens and explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Santorini: Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. You would probably recognise Santorini from its iconic blue and white buildings. This beautiful island is full of stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly locals. Santorini is the perfect place to relax and soak up the Greek sun.
Meteora: Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the unique places in Greece. Meteora is home to a group of monasteries built on sandstone cliffs. This site is truly breathtaking and worth a visit. If you are looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then Meteora is the perfect destination.
How To Enjoy Your Holiday In Greece
There are so many ways to enjoy your holiday in Greece. Whether you’re interested in exploring the country’s ancient history, soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in Greece. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
A solo tour of Athens
A solo tour of Athens is a great way to see the city’s many historical sites. You can walk or take a bus to get around the city and see some of the most famous landmarks, such as the Acropolis. There’s a reason why Athens is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece, and it’s because there’s so much to see and do! Enjoy your solitude as you explore this incredible city.
Island hopping in the Greek Isles
The Greek Isles are a popular tourist destination for a reason. These islands truly are a paradise with their stunning scenery, azure waters, and sandy beaches. Island hopping is a great way to see many different islands and enjoy everything they offer. You can do this by joining small group tours or renting a boat. If you hire a guide, they can show you the best places to go and the things to see on each island.
Santorini wine tours
Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. This beautiful island is full of stunning scenery, delicious food, and friendly locals. Santorini is also home to some of the best vineyards in Greece. You can take many different wine tours to explore these amazing vineyards. You will have the opportunity to learn about the different types of wine made on the island and taste some delicious wines.
Join escorted holidays to Greece
Escorted holidays are a great way to see the country and plan everything for you. An escorted holiday includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and guided tours of the country’s most popular attractions. This is a great option if you’re looking for a hassle-free holiday. There are many small group tours in Greece that you can join. Check the itinerary to see if the tour is right for you.
Rent a car and explore Greece
Renting a car is a great way to see Greece at your own pace. This is a great option if you’re looking for more flexibility and freedom on your holiday, especially if you want to focus your holiday on certain spots, such as Athena or Santorini only. Be sure to research the best rental companies and compare prices.
Take a cruise
Greece is home to some of the most stunning coastlines in the world, and cruises are a great way to see different parts of Greece without worrying about transportation or accommodation. This is a great option if you’re looking for an all-inclusive holiday. Many cruises depart from Athens and visit different Greek islands. Check the itinerary to see if the cruise is right for you.
Visit Greece during the off-season
If you want to avoid crowds and save money on holiday, consider visiting Greece during the off-season. The shoulder season (between April and June and September and October) is a great time to visit Greece. You’ll find that the weather is still pleasant during these months and that accommodation and transportation prices are lower than during the peak season.
As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy your holiday in Greece. Whether you’re interested in exploring the country’s history, soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, or enjoying the vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Greece. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
- Published in Specialist Travel
Explore Authentic Morocco
A Small Group Tour to Explore Authentic Morocco
A small group tour is the ideal way to explore Morocco. The country lends itself to travelling by train, mini-bus or ferry. A combination of all three is even better. With good road networks, decent rail connections and ferry connections with mainland Europe, Morocco is a great introduction to exploring Northern Africa.
Imagine spending a night in a palace in a charming bustling city, then the next day you go to a breath-taking Kasbah at the heart of the mountains then you get to ride a camel in the desert and spend the night in a tent, with a universe of stars to gaze at. This is what Morocco offers and more.
It has Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, a rugged mountain interior and a history of independence not shared by its neighbours. Its rich culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, European and African influences.
Morocco History
Morocco has a rich and colourful history. A variety of tours offer authentic experiences that lead you through the historical Imperial cities and beautiful landscapes. On these journeys of discovery, you can sleep in charming Riads, step back in time while sightseeing Roman ruins and explore ancient Kasbahs.
Morocco has a history of several dynasties that have succeeded one another over the years, Names that any traveller to the country will come across include the Idrisside dynasty, the Almoravid dynasty, the Almohad dynasty, the Merinid dynasty, the Saadian dynasty and the Alaouite dynasty. Morocco has gained international consideration as a multicultural country, with much of its heritage recognised as World Heritage by UNESCO. Morocco is one of the go-to destinations for discovery lovers, perfect for any traveller fascinated by nature, history, the art of living. It is hard not to fall in love with Moroccan hospitality.
Food in Morocco
For those with an interest in the culinary, then travelling throughout the country offers the opportunity to learn about Moroccan cuisine. The country itself is consistently ranked among the best travel destinations for food lovers. Jit is not surprising to anyone who has been before, but for a first-time traveller to Morocco, the culinary delights include souk tasting trails in Fes and Marrakech, having the chance to eat at a local family’s home in the Atlas Mountains or for those dedicated to learning a new skill, why not take a cooking class with an expert chef out in the countryside.
Authentic Morocco
At Our Local Tour one of our main aims is to help you connect and get closer to the local communities during our immersive small group tours. Morocco is home of the Berber, and you will uncover the daily life in Berber villages of the High Atlas Mountains. Here the revolve around the necessities of food, hunting, rug making and taking care of the herds and land. Get involved and experience day to day activities such as jam or bread making cooking using the most basic tools and an outdoors clay oven. When travelling as a group, there are opportunities for light treks or desert safaris. If you are lucky, you may be invited to join with a nomadic tribe as they migrate from one region to another!
There are opportunities to support local craft producers and shop for colourful rugs and handicrafts, many of which are still made in the traditional ways. Explore workshops and meet the local skilled artisans. Here you will discover not only the process of making Moroccan handicrafts but also the rich heritage that the country and its people continue to convey through their artisanship. Brass etching, pottery, weaving, leather & jewellery making, and embroidery. On an authentic tour of Morocco, you can avoid the crowds and fully experience the local specialties and give credit, acknowledgment and direct benefits to all of the underrated artists behind those pieces of art.
Morocco has many different types of traditional dances and music styles rooted in Arab, Berber, and African culture. The Moroccan arts reflect the many cultural backgrounds and ethnicity that have found their home in Morocco. For this reason, Moroccan dance is very diverse and varies from region to region. However, no cultural or historical tour of Morocco would be complete without witnessing a belly dance.
Shikhat is the dance commonly known as the Belly dance and Professional shikat wear colourful costumes with tight, midriff-baring sequined tops and long loose skirts or pants. This dance is characterised by sensual hip movements and often, the women wear a hip scarf to bring attention to the movements of the lower body. These exhibitions are often combined with a folk show which focuses on the culture, heritage, architecture, and rich history of Morocco. According to some, the belly dance is extremely old and traces of it can be found up to 6,000 years ago, in some pagan societies who used to worship a feminine deity, to celebrate women’s fertility as something magic.
Modern Morocco
In the 21st century, Morocco has been able to preserve its traditions and make its cultural heritage prosper through the generations. For example, in Marrakech, the Medina and its magnificent souks envelop you with its traditional side, while Guéliz and Hivernage offer the most modern facilities and infrastructure. Far from being a clash, this combination of modern and traditional Morocco embodies the true essence of the country.
For any traveller wishing to have an authentic group tour in Morocco, then contact Our Local Tour, whose local travel experts can create the perfect itinerary for your journey of discovery.
- Published in Specialist Travel
What is a tailormade holiday?
What is a tailormade holiday?
You may have heard of the term tailormade holiday or tailormade vacation, but then asked yourself, what is a tailormade holiday? When travel agents and tour operators use the term, what exactly is tailormade travel?
Our definition of a tailormade holiday is a trip that is built out of the various elements of flights, hotels, transport, guiding and experiences and is then entirely personalised to you. Of course, this is a simplified breakdown. You will find that many travel companies claim to offer ‘tailormade’ travel experiences, however they are limited to only certain hotels, or package together a range of different ‘modules’ rather than a truly bespoke travel package.
The term ‘Tailormade’ means made to fit the needs or specifications of a particular situation, object, or person—or seeming as though it was made that way. In its most literal sense, tailormade is used to describe a piece of clothing made by a tailor, especially a suit. A tailormade garment like this is made specifically to the measurements of the person that it’s for so that it fits them perfectly. Therefore, a tailormade holiday or vacation should be one that is designed for the person and one that fits them and their needs perfectly.
You may also see the terms bespoke holiday planning or bespoke vacations. This all refers to the same type of travel planning.
So what then are the advantages of a tailormade holiday over an ‘off the peg’ package holiday?
When considering the benefits of bespoke travel arrangements, we have come up with the following list. These are the best reasons to book tailormade travel.
You can use a local travel expert to make suggestions based on their first-hand knowledge of the destination. Our team will listen and ask questions until they’re happy they have what’s needed to make that bespoke, perfect experience you’re after.
The departure date and the exact duration of the holiday can be chosen by you. You can make sure that your trip fits in with your schedule and that you spend your time off wisely and doing something you want.
You can select the style and standard of accommodation and work out the most suitable day to day activities for you. We hand pick our destinations and activities using our first-hand knowledge and our local experts’ experience and then pass this on to you.
Tailormade means complete choice. You choose the airline that you want to fly with and the class of travel you want. We give you the options and you choose what is best for you.
We can arrange a private local guide and car at your destination, allowing complete flexibility of timings and activities. If there is a language barrier or you need specific information on a subject, this is the best way to travel. From researching family trees to bird watching and even learning how to cook a specific local dish, we can help.
How does booking a tailormade holiday work?
To begin with, tell us about your travel ideas and we will use our first hand-hand destination knowledge to work together with to create a holiday itinerary that is unique and works for you.
We will prepare a no-obligation personal holiday proposal for you to consider.
Once we’ve got your feedback about these ideas, we’ll propose one in finer detail. We’ll outline what we suggest you do each day and where to stay but should you not be happy with our suggestions, well we’ll just keep changing and altering things until you are. Or we go back to the drawing board.
The important part is that we work with you to make sure it’s just right, before you book. Although the choice is yours, we are on hand to help with every step of your holiday; from your flights and transfers, accommodation and meals, to your activities and bucket list experiences.
Are Tailormade Holidays more expensive?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. As a rule of thumb, they may be a bit more expensive than a package holidays. However, tailormade offers great value as it can be designed with a specific budget in mind.
Any extra cost is easily outweighed by the benefits. As we mentioned previously, you get the priceless expert advice of travel professionals, private drivers, your choice of accommodation, knowledgeable guides, and hidden ‘insider’ experiences. Add into the mix that the entire trip is organised for you, and any extra costs seem great value for money.
In addition, you are going to be avoiding some of the worst parts about travelling! There should be no getting lost, reduced chances of missing a transport connection, guides who stop you from falling into a tourist trap, no being overcharged by taxis and the end of searching endlessly for ATMS or legitimate currency exchanges.
To summarise, tailormade holidays offer you choice, flexibility and independence. Using local travel experts such as we do at Our Local Tour means that that dream holiday can be attained and in an ethical and sustainable way.
- Published in Specialist Travel
Are you ready for an Exploration Holiday?
Are you ready for an Exploration Holiday?
If you’re tired of the same old tourist traps and packaged holidays, then it’s time to consider an exploration holiday. These trips are designed to take you off the beaten path and show you parts of the world that most people never get to see.
Exploration holidays are all about adventure, discovery, and learning. They’re perfect for anyone who wants to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zone, and immerse themselves in different cultures and landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time explorer, an exploration holiday is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
So, what exactly is an exploration holiday? The answer is that it can be anything you want it to be. There are countless options when it comes to adventure travel, from trekking through the Amazon rainforest to kayaking in the Arctic Circle. Some popular types of exploration holidays include:
Hiking and Trekking
These trips are all about getting out into nature and exploring on foot. You might trek to the top of a mountain, follow a winding trail through a forest, or hike along a rugged coastline. Hiking and trekking trips can be challenging, but they’re also incredibly rewarding, offering stunning views and a sense of accomplishment.
Wildlife Safaris
If you’re a nature lover, a wildlife safari is the perfect way to get up close and personal with the world’s most fascinating creatures. From spotting lions on the African savannah to watching whales breach in the ocean, wildlife safaris are an unforgettable way to connect with the natural world.
Cultural Immersion
For those who want to learn about different cultures and customs, a cultural immersion trip is a great choice. You might stay with a local family, participate in traditional ceremonies, or visit historical sites and museums. Cultural immersion trips are a fantastic way to broaden your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of the world.
Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled experience, an adventure sports holiday might be just what you need. From white-water rafting to bungee jumping, there are endless opportunities for thrill-seekers to get their fix.
Expedition Cruises
For those who love the water, an expedition cruise is the ultimate exploration holiday. You’ll travel to remote corners of the world, visiting places that are only accessible by boat. Whether you’re exploring the Galapagos Islands or cruising through the Arctic, an expedition cruise is an unforgettable way to see the world.
Of course, your holiday can be a combination of any of these styles.
You can also combine an exploration holiday with a beach stay or yoga retreat. At Our Local Tour, we understand all the options available to you and will work with you to get the holiday that is best suited to you. Whatever type of exploration holiday you choose, the experience is sure to be unforgettable. You’ll have the chance to see parts of the world that most people never get to see, and you’ll come home with a newfound appreciation for the natural world and different cultures. This is what really excites us about what we do.
We also must be honest and say that exploration holidays aren’t for everyone. If you’re the type of person who likes to stick to the well-trodden path, and prefers a more traditional holiday experience, then an exploration holiday might not be the right choice for you. That is why speaking to a travel expert is so important when making a decision. However, if you’re willing to step outside your comfort zone, embrace the unknown, and take a few risks, then an exploration holiday is an experience that you won’t regret.
One of the best things about an exploration holiday is that it’s a chance to disconnect from the stresses of everyday life. When you’re out in the wilderness or exploring a new culture, you’re forced to live in the moment and focus on the experience at hand. There’s no checking your phone every five minutes or worrying about work emails. Instead, you get to immerse yourself in the beauty of the world, and connect with yourself in a way that’s hard to do in our hyper-connected modern world.
Exploring new cultures is one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences a person can have. When you’re traveling to a foreign country, meeting people from different backgrounds and experiencing a new a culture, there is a feeling of joy that is hard to describe and one reason why travel is so addictive. One of the most important aspects of exploring new cultures is the opportunity it provides to broaden our perspectives and challenge our assumptions. When we’re exposed to new ideas, traditions, and ways of living, we’re forced to confront our own biases and preconceptions. This can be uncomfortable at times, but it’s also a necessary step in becoming a more empathetic and understanding person.
By immersing yourself in a culture and learning about their values and traditions, you can gain a deeper understanding of why they prioritise things and how they contribute to the overall well-being of the community. This can help you appreciate and respect different ways of living, even if they don’t align with your own personal beliefs and values. That is something that is missing in our fast paced digital and online lives.
Exploring new cultures can also be a great way to expand your social network and make new connections. Whether you’re traveling solo or joining a group tour, meeting locals and other travellers can be a great way to build friendships and professional relationships. In addition, you might find that you have more in common with people from different cultures than you initially thought. Shared experiences and interests can bridge cultural divides and lead to long-lasting friendships and partnerships.
Whatever type of holiday experience that you are looking for, here at Our Local Tour, we have expert travel planners waiting to help you. We have been there and done it, can tell you how it felt and why we would do it again (or not!). Get in touch and you will find that the adventure has already begun!
- Published in Specialist Travel
Travelling in South Africa
Few countries in the world can offer the diversity of wildlife and culture that travelling in South Africa allows. The southernmost country in the African continent and with a population of almost 60 million people, South Africa has something to satisfy any type of traveller.
South Africa Safari
A safari to South Africa is the most common type of holiday to the country. As safari destinations go, South Africa has it all and the country offers visitors the ‘big five’. These are the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo. Many of the lodges in South Africa allow you the chance to view these five iconic species but being wildlife, nothing is ever guaranteed.
It is said that the term “Big Five” comes from the old safari hunting days. Many people assume that the name is derived from the size of the animals but this is not true. Rather, these five animals proved to be the most difficult to hunt. These days the hunting is done with cameras and zoom lens.
When considering the different lodges and regions for your safari to South Africa, whether the lodge offers the Big Five is a major consideration. Do not just use these criteria though. Certain areas are much better for rhino. Kruger National Park, and specifically Southern Kruger, is renowned for white rhino. In fact, this park has the largest population of rhino in Africa. Consider what you want to view as this will then direct where you will be travelling in South Africa.
Make a list of the animals and rate them in order of preference. You can then check off what lodges and parks will best meet your needs. A safari to South Africa is often a once in a lifetime experience, so make sure you plan what you want to do.
There are many local tour operators that will gladly share their experience and expertise with you. Many of these local safari operators will be based in the National Parks or at the safari lodges, so have excellent first-hand knowledge of the area. They can also tell you the best time of year to travel and what the wildlife viewing will be like then. Of course, at Our Local Tour, our local travel experts can assist you with this process.
There is more to travelling in South Africa than a Big Five safari. South Africa has a vibrant food and drink scene and a rich and disturbing history to explore.
The Garden Route
For a first time traveller to South Africa, the Garden route is the ideal introduction. Travelling from Cape Town in the west to Port Elizabeth in the east this is a popular self-drive holiday. As well as self-drive, there are bus companies offering regular services along the route and many and shop in quaint towns. Sample fresh oysters or if you are lucky you may get to watch southern right whales at play.
The adventurous can take a boat trip and dive with the mighty Great White shark off the coast of Gansbaai. The Garden route is a great introduction to the country and should be seriously considered by anyone looking at travelling in South Africa.
South African wines are famous throughout the world. For those more interested in the food and drink of the country, then the South African wine lands should be your first port of call. Jump in a car or take an escorted tour just one hour east of Cape Town and you are in South Africa’s Winelands. The town names here read like a ‘best of’ wine collection; Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl create a holy trinity of wine producing regions for you to explore.
There is a wide selection of vineyards here offering guided tours from boutique wineries to sprawling estates. Many of these also offer a wine tasting and food pairing experience with onsite restaurants offering the best of South African produce. If you like to burn off a few of the calories as you are going, then there choose to tour the winelands on bike! Indulge your taste buds with extraordinary tastings and wine pairings and enjoy the beauty of the sprawling vineyards as you pedal your way between farms.
South African History Tours
Travelling in South Africa you will find that the history of the country is hard to miss. The must visit locations such as Robin Island are still raw with the recent past. Led by a local resident, take a tour in one of the townships. They will help you understand the history of the people and you will be supporting people who are seeking to create real change.
Heading further back in history, explore the Zulu battlefields and the infamous Rorke’s Drift. Enhance your experience and bring these historical sites to life by taking a tour led by a local historian. Standing on the wide open plains you can imagine the sight of thousands of Zulu warriors bearing down on your position. The heroic defence of Rorke’s Drift Mission Station was preceded by the massacre at Isandlwana and this is depicted in the film Zulu Dawn starring Burt Lancaster and Peter O’Toole as Lord Chelmsford.
If you plan to continue travelling in South Africa, then leave the plains behind, and head to the coast and the city of Durban. The third most populous city in South Africa, Durban is often referred to as South Africa’s Miami Beach. Relax on the beach, enjoy shopping in the many malls or take part in the many activities available locally.
A safari to South Africa is most people main reason for visiting the country but there is so much more to see and do. Contact Our Local Tour who can help you plan and offer you insights and ideas you would never normally consider.
- Published in Specialist Travel
Active Holidays and Tours
Active Holidays and Tours
One of the most popular forms of travel is now the Active Holidays section. If you are one of those people who cannot just spend their days laid out on the beach, then you are certainly not alone. There is a growing market for holidays that get you up and about, from horse riding on the plains of Mongolia to yoga with a guru on the banks of the Ganges and everything else in between.
Here we list some of the most popular types of active holidays as well as some of the less well known options that you may not have heard about.
Hiking, Walking and Trekking Holidays
When you ask about the different types of active holidays, these are what most people instantly think of. Even within this sub-section of the genre, there are many different types of hikes, walks and treks to consider. From companies that offer you the chance to climb Mount Everest, to ‘slow holidays’ that take you on walking trips through beautiful French countryside, there will be a hiking, walking or trekking holiday for you.
Cycling Holidays
You can take a cycling holiday in almost any country in the world. It can be as simple as jumping on your bike and setting off from home or you can join a group as they travel Africa from north to south. To make things as easy as possible, tour operators can arrange local bike hire, overnight accommodation and even your food and drink stops along the way. Many will accompany you with a back up vehicle in case of puncture or fatigue. Guided and self guided tours are available as are road cycling and mountain biking focussed tours. Whether you are a keen cyclist or just like the idea of exploring on two wheels, then a cycling holiday may be just what you need.
Cultural Holidays
Have you ever been to a famous site but really wanted to know more about it? If so, a cultural holiday is what you need. Often accompanied by a specialist guide, you can explore ancient monuments, interact with local tribes or attend the opera at a famous opera house. Specialist local knowledge is often vital in creating these types of active holidays. Knowing when a local festival is taking place, how to get tickets for the hottest show in town and what the best local restaurant is to try that speciality you wanted, is what local tour operators do best. There are also various different ways you can take you cultural holiday. Private tailor-made holidays can give you the most exclusive and personal experiences, whilst travelling with a small group of like minded travellers, means that you may make friends for life. Just ask your local operator what they can do for you or check with our experienced team.
Winter Sports Holidays
One of the original ‘active holidays’, skiing is more popular than ever. For those with a thirst for the slopes and an unlimited budget, you can ski all year round. From the famous European resorts in the Alps to the southern hemisphere and Queenstown in New Zealand as well as the north American playgrounds, there is always somewhere you can ski. For newcomers, the sport can seem intimidating but there are many excellent operators who will advise you on the best places to learn as well as book you the lessons needed to get started.
Skiing is not the only winter sport holiday. Snowboarding is similar to skiing but you may also want to try alpine skiing, snow shoeing , dog sledding, ski biking and for the bravest of you, how about winter swimming!
Food and Drink Holidays
Spend time on a vineyard in France or learn to cook Vietnamese food in Hanoi. The wide range of food and drink holidays you can now take are a growing part of the active holidays market. Small local businesses in Italy are offering you the chance to learn to make pasta from an original family recipe. Stay in the courtyard of an ancient Belgium brewery as you learn the skills needed to brew your own perfect pint. To get the most out of this type of break, you need to make sure that you are learning directly from a local. Beware though. In recent times more ‘corporate’ events and activities have started to spring up, fitting as many people as possible into a sterile and uniform event prepared just for tourists.
Family Adventure Holidays
If you and the kids are bored after a couple of days by the pool, then you need to look at a family adventure holiday. Designed specifically for families, these holidays encompass the whole of the active holidays market, but adapt the overall experience to be suitable for families. As well as family holidays, you can choose to travel in groups with other like minded families or have the trip tailor-made to your own specification. Most family adventure tour operators are very specialist and have dedicated staff that look specifically after this market.
This is just a brief rundown of the various types of active holidays you can take. Search our Our Local Tour by activity to see if there is something active that you can do on your next trip. Alternatively, get in touch and speak to one of our team about the options available for you.
- Published in Specialist Travel
Small Group Tours to India
Tours to India
Are you looking for tours to India? If you have already been on to Google and searched for the phrase, the majority of results will be from tour operators based in the country you are based in. We suggest that you should deal with a local operator based in India or through a single agent that will assist you and do this on your behalf.
There are numerous benefits of arranging your tour to India in this way.
- You are dealing with an expert travel arranger who is based in the place that you are visiting. Their knowledge of local places, customs and culture will be second to none. If you want a true in depth tour of India, then you need to be dealing with a local tour operator.
- There are financial benefits to booking locally. The price that you pay will not have to included commissions and marketing fees from large agencies and outbound tour operators. You can be removing two or three layers of expense and administration that is not required when you book your holiday this way. You can also rest assured that the money you spend is being used to fund jobs in the local economy rather than paying shareholders their annual bonus.
- There is an extra degree of flexibility in your arrangements. You can tailor-make your holiday to exactly how you want. Visiting what you want, when you want and for however long that you want. The choice of hotels and lodges that you can stay at is not limited to the ones that your local agent or tour operator has contracts with. If you see a place you like, it can be booked for you. This is how tours to India should be arranged.
In its article entitled ‘14 Ways to Travel Purposefully & Responsibly’, the World Travel and Tourism Council suggests a number of ways of choosing a good tour operator and what you need to check. At Our Local Tour, we have already done this hard work for you, checking all of the credentials of our local operators. We only deal with locally based tour operators that meet our exacting standards and are also committed to travel being used as a force for good. This applies to tours to India as much as any other country in the world.
So what is the most popular type of tour to India?
For the first time visitor to India, the ‘Golden Triangle’ route is one of the most popular tours. This tourist circuit takes you from Delhi, the nation’s capital city, via Agra which is home to the Taj Mahal and on to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. The Golden Triangle is so called because of the shape that is formed by the locations when plotted on a map. If you are short on time, this is your first visit to India and you want to get a taste for all that the country offers, then this is a great start.
Of course, with a country as large and diverse as India, you are never going to see it all in one visit.
An increasingly popular activity is to take a tiger safari. There are many national parks in India where the tiger is protected and if lucky, you may get the chance to view in the wild. Tours that include visits to reserves such as Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve are now common. The reserves often have accommodation located within or on the perimeters of the park making it easier than ever to try and catch a glimpse of this elusive predator.
If you like a bit more activity on your holiday, then you need to consider some of the great trekking tours in India that are available. Trekking in the Indian Himalayas is an experience that few ever forget. If you are just a beginner or a seasoned trekker, you will find a route that suites your skill and fitness level. It shouldn’t need to be said, but when booking this type of tour you need to make sure that you are working with a highly experienced operator who knows the terrain and the weather patterns for the area you are visiting. India has many great trekking companies that have operated safely for many years and we are delighted to work with the best.
The other types of tours to India that have become main stream in the last few years are beach holidays. Previously the preserve of hippies and travellers, the beaches of southern India have now opened up to international travellers with large tour operators flying directly in. From the sleepy backwaters of Kerala to the busy tourist beaches of Goa, you can relax in five star luxury or cruise on your own private boat. There is of course more to these areas than the fly and flop holidays. At Our Local Tour, our expert travel advisors along with our local operators can create a unique holiday for you, unlike anything that can be found in the high street brochures.
- Published in Specialist Travel
Sailing Holiday – Ideal for a Family Break
Sailing Holiday
A sailing holiday is one of the most popular activity holidays. Sail in crystal blue seas. Stop at little coves with nobody but you on the beach. It sounds idyllic and it really is.
Surprisingly, this type of holiday is not out of reach with a normal budget. Hiring a boat to sail around the Greek islands is not exclusive to millionaires. There are many small businesses that have been setup to meet the demand for adventurous holidaymakers. At Our Local Tour we know the best.
You do not even have to have any sailing qualifications. Local sailing operators can provide you with an experienced crew to help you learn the ropes as you sail.
There are plenty of options for the novice sailor. The most popular sailing holiday is the flotilla style. Many of these holidays are designed for the complete beginner and you can learn new skills in a fun and relaxed way.
Some sailing companies will also include accreditation with your holiday so that you come back with a new qualification. With an experienced skipper on board, learning the basics of sailing becomes a fun hands on part of the holiday.
You travel together in a group of sometimes 10-12 yachts, guided by a lead boat. The flotilla lead has a Skipper and often an engineer and hostess on board. It is the fun of the sailing holiday with novice sailor stress removed!
The more experienced sailor
For the more experienced sailor, there are also plenty of exciting options. You can chart your own yacht and set off in to the sunset.
Known as bareboat charter, this is the most flexible option and gives you complete freedom to explore. You can also hire a skipper, a chef and follow a fixed route. This is a sailing holiday that you control.
A skippered sailing holiday combines the freedom of the bareboat charter with the easy of the flotilla holidays. You can charter your yacht and include the skipper when you want.
This means you can have a skipper onboard to start the holiday, but after a few days as you grow in confidence, you take over and sail. There is the option to have a skipper for the full charter also.
Where to take a sailing holiday?
Put simply, you can take a sailing holiday anywhere that you can sail. The most popular destinations are in the Mediterranean, with Greece, Turkey, the Balearic Islands and Croatia all being in demand. With most of these destinations served by low cost airlines and a plentiful supply of yachts, prices are very competitive.
Local charter operators will know the best routes, special places to anchor and the best restaurants for the evening if in harbour.
For a more exotic sailing holiday, you can head to Thailand and Andaman Sea. Here you can sail in the beautiful waters and explore the islands off the Thai coast. You will also find world-class diving and snorkelling, excellent sport fishing and unspoilt beaches.
The welcome in Thailand is always a good one and the food excellent.
A worldwide sailing destination, the Caribbean has plenty of great sailing available. With many Caribbean islands having multiple sailing holiday operators, there is plenty of choice. Sail in the British Virgin Islands or Martinique and anchor off your own white sandy beach.
It won’t be a dream as you dive into warm turquoise seas to snorkel among the rainbow colours of a coral reef. Finish the day with a rum punch on the deck of your yacht. The Caribbean islands have a sophistication that few other places in the world can match.
Who takes a sailing holiday?
There are options for all when it comes to sailing holidays. If you are young you may want to look at the options to join a crew. A working holiday on a yacht sailing the Greek islands is a great addition to your CV.
For families, the time spent on board, working together to sail a ship is a fantastic way to for a family bond. Don’t worry too much about the routes and technicalities of sailing. Take a flotilla holiday or a skippered charter and the stress is taken away, allowing you to enjoy the time with your family.
If you are travelling solo or as a couple, there are many options depending on your confidence and experience. All of the above can be suitable and sailing holidays are a great way to meet new people and make lifelong friends.
As for experienced sailors, the world is truly your oyster. Bareboat charters allow you to sail the world, with a freedom that few other types of holiday offer. The challenges can be as tough as you wish, with options to join crews all over the world.
Sail in some of the most remote and demanding destinations possible from the Arctic to the South Pacific.
Whatever your interest in sailing holidays, Our Local Tour will have a local travel partner who can help you in putting together the dream holiday.
- Published in Specialist Travel
From eco tours to responsible travel
From eco tours to responsible travel – a blog about environmental travel
Traveling is an amazing experience; it can change your perspective of humanity and make you see the world in a whole new way. But many people don’t know how to travel ethically, nor do they take actions necessary to make ethical travel successful. Before I share with you how to travel ethically, I want to define what we think ethical travel is, so you have a better understanding of what it means to us here at Our Local Tour.
There is a small but persistent stream of opinion, mostly among environmentalists, that travel is unethical. It encourages luxury, it encourages environmental degradation, it encourages selfishness.
The UNTWO publish the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism (GCET) which is a comprehensive set of principles designed to guide key-players in tourism development. The 10 articles of the code make for a comprehensive blue print for any organisation wishing to offer responsible travel and ethical vacations. We strongly recommend anyone interested in this area of tourism visit the UNTWO website on their Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.
Our definition of ethical or responsible travel is to take a much deeper look at where you’re going and what you’re doing, and how it’s affecting the environment and your fellow travellers. In order to be ethical, travelling shouldn’t involve depriving local environments of their natural resources. In fact, it should even involve making a point to minimize your carbon footprint in the process and contribute to the places and communities that you visit.
So, how do you travel ethically?
- Be sure to research where you want to travel and what issues can affect your experience.
- Understand the issues facing the places you want to visit, and what impact your presence there can have on them.
- If you take a small group tour, the way you’re travelling will have a minimal impact on the local environment. Make sure that the tour operator and their tours adhere to the highest environmental, fair trade and human rights standards. (we do!)
- You will need to acknowledge that there will be a conflict of interest between your travelling and your environmental responsibilities. Consider not flying to your destination if possible and use local transport. Make your trips longer but less frequent, thereby reducing the overall carbon footprint.
- When travelling, it is important to obey local laws and regulations. You should not commit any crime or offense against the country’s regulations, and you must avoid engaging in any activity that is deemed offensive or injurious by the indigenous people.
- Nature tourism and ecotourism are recognised as being particularly conducive to enriching and enhancing the standing of tourism in destinations. This is true provided that the operators respect local populations and that there is not an overburden on the natural resources. Ask your tour operator how many people are travelling and how local natural resources are consumed.
- It’s important to make sure that the financial resources derived from visits to cultural sites and monuments are used for the upkeep, safeguard, development and embellishment of this heritage.
- How does your responsible tour operator treat their staff and freelance employees? Workers in the tourism industry and related activities have the right to acquire appropriate initial and continuous training, they have a duty to acquire such training, and there employers should ensure that they are given adequate social protection.
- A tour operator has a responsibility to the travellers on the vacation. Tourists and visitors have the responsibility to acquaint themselves with the characteristics of a country before leaving home. They must be aware of the health and security risks inherent in any travel outside their usual environment and behave in such a way as to minimize those risks. The tour operator should be leading this through pre-departure information and guidance.
The best advice we can give comes not from us but from Zurab Pololikashvili, the UNWTO Secretary-General who said ” Tourism is a genuine driver of solidarity and development. Let us all fully harness its power to bring people and communities together. This way tourism can keep delivering better opportunities and sustainable development for millions across the globe. ”
In the end, the only way to insure that your tour adheres to a policy of responsible travel and that it goes off without a hitch is to research and plan thoroughly beforehand.
Using a reputable tour operator such as Our Local Tour, who maintains long-term relationships with their local partners while maintaining a high standard of excellence for their tours is a good first step.
- Published in Responsible Travel
Costa Rica Eco Tourism Holiday
Costa Rica Eco Tourism Holiday
Eco Tourism
Costa Rica is the place to visit for eco tourism. The country has one of the most diverse ecologies in the world, with more than 50% of its territory protected by parks and reserves. Costa Rica’s ecotourism industry has developed around these natural treasures, creating economic opportunities for rural communities while protecting them from potential harm. Ecotourism has been able to actively contribute to the conservation of cultural heritage and natural environment of a country. It is one of the most forward thinking, sustainable tourism destinations in the world and that is why at Our Local Tour we LOVE Costa Rica. Here is our list of the best places to visit while on a tour to Costa Rica.
Papagayo
Papagayo is a peninsula on the Pacific coast, northwest of Liberia. It stretches from Ollieres on the south to Playa Herradura on the north, for about 30 km. It has ten beaches with turquoise water and consistent surf, making surfing a popular pastime. Public security is not a problem in Papagayo. Papagayo was named after a local tree called the Guacamaya or ‘Papagallo’ bird by Spanish explorers.
Manuel Antonio
There are 5 parks in Costa Rica, but Manuel Antonio National Park is the most famous because it has the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica. You can see why it’s called the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica, with its amazing turquoise water, white sand and gorgeous views. The best part? It’s home to black tailed deer, howler monkeys, sloths and tons of other wildlife! All the trails throughout this entire park are paved or lined with stairs, so you never need to wear hiking shoes. You can even do the entire trail on your flip-flops.
Arenal Volcano
Be sure to visit Arenal Volcano National Park and Lake Arenal, located in northwestern Costa Rica and towering above the town of La Fortuna. Travellers from around the world come to admire and study the volcano, hike on lava from previous eruptions and if lucky, glimpse some volcanic activity.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Monteverde is a well-known, popular destination for ecotourism in Costa Rica and the best place to explore one of the countries famous cloud forests. The clouds over a cloud forest are a type of fog that forms when the warm, moist air from lower elevations rises and meets the cool, humid air from the coast. Lonely Planet describes the cloud forest as “a true wonder of nature.”
Tamarindo Beach
The beach of Tamarindo is located in Guanacaste Province, along the Pacific Coast. It’s not far from the capital San Jose, and is popular with surfers of all levels. When you visit Tamarindo Beach, you will find that the surfers create the laid-back vibe while the beach lovers delight in the crystal blue waters. The perfectly shaped coastline framed by magnificent palm trees is truly beautiful.
Poas Volcano
Poas Volcano is one of the most well-known active volcanoes in Costa Rica. Poás Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most thrilling attractions, especially the bubbling crater lagoon, which has a variety of colours, from aquamarine to green. Looking down in to the crater is truly inspiring.
Tortuguero National Park
The Tortuguero National Park protects one of the largest remaining areas of tropical rainforest in Central America. A journey along the river will introduce you to howler monkey and toucans in the tree tops and crocodiles bathing on the shore. At the coast, the park offers vast, protected beaches from which you can enjoy endless vistas of the stunning Caribbean Sea.
There is so much more that you can see and do in Costa Rica. Why not get in touch with us here at Our Local Tour and let us put together the perfect tour of Costa Rica. We even offer an ebike tour of Costa Rica !Alternatively, why not have a look at our small group departure tours?
- Published in Responsible Travel