Why go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights?

Is viewing the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) high on your bucket list? This mesmerizing display of colors, patterns, and movement in the night sky has fascinated us for centuries.

Before science could explain these dancing, light shows (solar activity ionizing in the atmosphere), theories abounded. A couple of my favorites: The Norse theorized it was the glinting of the armor of the Valkyries. Some Native American groups believed they were spirits of the dead; the brighter they shined, the happier the dead were said to be.

There are many incredible locations from which to observe this fascinating phenomenon – Finland, Norway, Alaska, Northern Canada. One of the most popular, and arguably, the best is Iceland. Less cloud cover, longer winter nights, and low ambient lighting combine to make more frequent and better opportunities for viewing.

Here are three different ways to experience this glorious sight.

Thingvellir National Park is a favorite choice and is within easy reach of Reykjavik. Not only is Thingvellir a national park, it’s also an historic site. So, you have an opportunity to see a rare vision and gain some insight on Iceland’s fascinating history.

By water – a boat onto one of the lagoons is an incredible way to experience this mesmerizing experience. Out to sea, far from light pollution, you can feel a sense of kinship with the Vikings of old.

If you're looking for a different kind of experience, try Seljavallalaug – one of the many  geothermal pools and the oldest in Iceland. Swimming in the middle of nowhere, while watching the northern lights, is not something many people can say they have done.

Are you ready to go to Iceland? Call or email me today and we’ll start the planning. 888-429-1929/terri@sevenwondersgrouptravel.com

Four Worst Cruise Decisions

You’ve decided on an ocean cruise for vacation this year. Mediterranean? Alaskan? Caribbean? Australian? Big ship? Small ship? Luxury, main stream, specialty? A lot of the fun is in the planning – those slick websites and brochures are FUN to look at. Whatever you do, don’t make these mistakes:

Same Day Flight. I get it. You don’t want to waste a precious vacation day, so you book a flight to arrive on the same day as departure. Don’t do it. Airlines are flying at maximum capacity and if a flight is cancelled or you’re delayed and miss a connection there isn’t a lot of wiggle room to re-accommodate you.

Arriving a day or two early affords you the chance to recover from jet-lag, explore your departure city, or just enjoy some decompression as you transition to vacay mode. Wouldn’t you rather check out Seattle’s Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, spend a couple of days exploring Rome, or enjoy a relaxing day at the beach than trying to catch up with your cruise? Even if you catch up to the ship a day or two later, you’ve missed the beginning of your vacation and you’ve spent the first few days stressing instead of relaxing.

Wait until on-board to book shore excursions. Spontaneity is great, especially when traveling. Not with shore excursions. If there is an excursion you know you want to do, book it early. Don’t wait until you are on board. Otherwise, there’s an excellent chance it may be sold out. Some of the more popular excursions sell out months prior to sailing.

And, you don’t have to book your excursions through the cruise line. Many cruise ports of call have reputable, local guides and tours available and there are companies that specialize in shore excursions. Would you rather see the Acropolis with a numbered sticker on your chest while jostling for position with 60 of your “best” friends? Or explore it with a group of six, enjoying commentary from a licensed, passionate docent?

Pick the wrong ship. It’s not just big vs small. Are you traveling with kids and want them to be welcomed and entertained rather than frowned at disapprovingly? Or, do you think a ship that is shriek-free is more your cup of tea? Speaking of tea - do you expect high tea every day? Country-club ambience or more laid back? Do you favor a ship that rolls up the carpet by 11 every evening or do you plan on partying until dawn? With clothes or clothing optional? OK, that one is obvious. But, selecting the wrong ship for your personality or travel style can make a wonderful ship less than appealing.

Consider price only. There’s a reason Caribbean cruises are cheap in October and November. Harvey, Irma, or Maria ring any bells? Or Alaska in May, late August/September – rain anyone? Yes, it rains all summer in Alaska, but it can get downright torrential in the Spring and Fall. European cruises in the fall can be cold. What are your on-board expectations and utilizations? You might find that paying more for a cruise with more included is actually less expensive than one that is cheaper up front but only includes the proverbial “nickel and diming" amenities.

If you’re flexible and understand why a cruise is discounted, some bargains can be a great value. During hurricane season, ships are generally able to avoid the storms. Just, be okay with having the itinerary changed or having a shortened or lengthened cruise. A Mediterranean cruise in the fall, in my opinion, is the best. Fewer crowds and no stifling heat. It can get chilly, but if you’re prepared for it, not a problem. Remember, you want to get best value – not the lowest price.

Are you ready to find the perfect cruise for you? I’d love to help. Call 888-429-1929 or email travel@sevenwondersgrouptravel.com today to schedule a complimentary consultation and we’ll start the planning!

Olympic Triangle

Did you know that three consecutive Olympic Games will be held in Asia? While all these destinations might be on your bucket list in their own right, what about adding the excitement and energy of the Olympics? Here is a quick snapshot of each of these three sites. Are they on your bucket list?

Site of the current Winter Games, Pyeonchang South Korea is a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts. And, bonus, after completion of the games the world-class venues built for the games will be available to the public. If winter sports aren’t your thing, or you visit this beautiful country in a warmer season, so much awaits you. Traditional temples, gorgeous national parks, delicious food, and a warm, welcoming citizenry.

Visit some of the many sacred shrines, enjoy the serene beauty of Mt. Fuji, wander through the Peace Garden and Museum of Hiroshima, explore a geisha district, stay at a Buddhist temple, learn about the Samurais. Just a few of the possible experiences of Japan after you've explored the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Japan which will host the 2020 Summer Games.

Beijing will become the only city to host both winter and summer (2008) in 2022 when it plays host to the Winter Olympics. Climb part of The Great Wall, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the Hutong neighborhood, visit the Forbidden City and Tienanmen Square. All are must dos for your first visit and you haven’t even left the city yet. If you want to venture away from Beijing, maybe a trip to Xian and the Terra Cotta Warriors or a cruise down the Yangtze River? Not to mention Hong Kong, Shanghai and the beautiful countryside. So much to see and experience in China.

There you have it – a sampling of the Olympic Triangle. Whether you want to experience one of these destinations during the excitement and thrill of an Olympic Games or at a calmer time, each is a unique and fascinating journey.

Like this article? Sign up for my weekly newsletter to keep up with hints, tips, and the latest travel must dos.

Let's Celebrate!

As we turn the page to a new year, it’s time to start planning the next great vacation. What better way to mark a milestone than with travel? Not only is it a brilliant way to celebrate with family and friends, but the memories are forever. Unlike that gold watch, new car or espresso machine.

Do you have a new or soon-to-be graduate in the family? There are specialized travel options we can tailor for young adults. Everything from camping along the Inca Trail to luxury river cruises exclusively for the 18 – 45 set. They can travel independently or as part of a group. Whatever fits best.

Is there a milestone birthday or anniversary upcoming for a family member? Why not gather the whole clan to celebrate on a cruise or at all-inclusive resort? There are many, many options for multi-generational groups. How much fun would it be to learn to drive sled dogs together or take ski lessons in the French Alps instead of the usual family get together? Looking for something warmer? Zipline through the rainforest or try trapeze lessons on the beach!

Are wedding bells on the horizon? Destination weddings allow friends and family to celebrate together in a unique venue plus have a memorable travel experience. Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean are familiar and popular destinations for weddings. Want to go a little farther? How about Italy, New Zealand, or Greece? There are hundreds of destinations where you can combine a wedding with travel for large or small groups.

Travel memories last a lifetime. Is there an important milestone coming up in your circle of friends or family?

• Anniversary
• Birthday
• Graduation
• Retirement
• Reunion
• Wedding

What could be a more memorable way to celebrate than with travel? Contact us today and we’ll work with you to craft and plan the perfect adventure to meet your celebrants’ dreams. travel@sevenwondersgrouptravel.com or 888-429-1929

Like this article? Sign up for our newsletter to be first to receive news, tips, and specials.

Travel Gift Ideas - No Matter Who's On Your List

Are you struggling with trying to find a unique and appreciated gift this season?

Do you have everyone from bookworms to adrenaline junkies on your gift list? Everybody has a special interest or hobby and travel is a great gift to acknowledge that activity, provide a new and unique way to enjoy that pursuit, and create lifetime memories.

While major milestones are often celebrated with bucket list vacations, you don’t need a momentous occasion to give the gift of travel. Here is a sampling of a few travel experiences sure to be loved and remembered that might not come immediately to mind when constructing your shopping list:

• Animal Lovers - visit the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre in Malawi; volunteer for Sea Turtle Conservation in Costa Rica
• Adventure Junkies – bungee jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge; live in a yurt on the Mongolian plain
• Book Lovers – Da Vinci Code tour; Literary Pub Crawl in Dublin; tour the Alexandria Library
• Culinary Fans – truffle hunting in Italy; cooking class with Michelin star chef in Mexico
• Dance Enthusiasts – enjoy Tango lessons in Buenos Aires; Salsa clubbing in Havana; learn to Waltz in Vienna
• Fun Seekers – Zipline thru the Rainforest;  race rickshaws through the streets of Siem Reap; drive a dog sled in Alaska
• Sports Enthusiasts – golf at St. Andrews; ski the French Alps; learn to scuba dive off the Great Barrier Reef
• Speed Demons – drive a Ferrari racing car on a track in Italy; participate in an America’s Cup style race in New Zealand
• Theater Fans – see a production at the Globe Theatre in London; a play at the Odeon in Athens; opera in Venice.
• Well-being Enthusiasts – learnTai Chi in Beijing; practice yoga with a guru in India
• Wine Lovers – learn to blend in Provence; harvest grapes in Chile; tour the Australian Wine Country

The list of unique experiences available while traveling is limitless. And, the memories will last a lifetime, unlike most of the “stuff” that we buy?

Like this article? Sign up today for our newsletter to make sure you don't miss any news, tips, or specials.