What Goes Into Creating an Itinerary at Vaya Adventures? We Asked our Destination Specialists

We recently interviewed some of our enthusiastic Destination Specialists to learn about some of the new private guided tours they created as well as their favorite itineraries, and what they considered when designing these incredible trips. With their firsthand experience living, working, or extensively exploring the regions they craft customized adventures for, they were eager to share what makes these itineraries exceptional for our travelers. Here’s what they had to say.

ICONIC INDIA

“The first time I saw the Taj Mahal, I visited on my own and it was as beautiful as everyone said it would be. The second time, I went with a private guide and the experience was completely different. My local private guide brought the Taj to life in a whole new way, sharing the lore, describing the craftsmanship of the marble work, and explaining the Mughal Empire’s influence.

With this meaningful approach in mind, I shaped our Iconic India journey. It visits India’s iconic sites but does so in a thoughtful way. I wanted to bring depth and understanding to this complex country, which is a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells. To help balance the chaos of the cities, I wove in nights at serene havelis (traditional manor houses), jungle-shrouded cottages, and royal homestays.”   – Kelsey Wenger, Vaya Asia Specialist

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HIDDEN GEMS OF EASTERN SWITZERLAND BY TRAIN

“I used to live in Ticino, the southernmost canton of Switzerland, and I got to know the country’s less-frequented corners. I love sharing them with our travelers! This new Hidden Gems adventure moves through German and Italian-speaking regions of Switzerland, showcasing a wide variety of natural beauty and a fusion of great wine and cuisine. The vintage train travel is also amazing!

It’s important to me that our experiences give Vaya travelers the chance to connect deeply with local people, so I chose local guides with strong ties to the wonderful folks who live in these unique villages. This connection allows our guests to be “brought into the family” in a way that is tough to experience with large tours or in more touristy areas of Switzerland.” – Gretchen Traut, Vaya Europe Specialist 

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ICONIC JAPAN

“Japan is a delight for inquisitive travelers. It’s a country where you might explore the same regions as someone from your hometown, but have a completely different experience. The rich culture, diverse landscapes, and long-standing tradition of craftsmanship ensure that if you want to travel deeply, you’ll find a Japan unique to you.

The Iconic Japan itinerary reveals the heart of the country through immersive visits, engaging interactions, and wonderful food. I’m especially fond of strolling the lively alleys of Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market, gazing at Mt. Fuji from a soothing Hakone onsen (hot spring), taking calming breaths at one of Kyoto’s many temples, and enjoying a traditional kaiseki meal at a ryokan, known for their gracious hospitality. Our private local guides make it easy to navigate the language and customs and get the most out of each moment.” – Kelsey Wenger, Vaya Asia Specialist

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SICILY & PUGLIA: CULTURE & CULINARY ADVENTURE

“What do I love about this trip? The food! The history! The nature! These lesser-traveled regions of Italy have so much to offer – from the distinctive trulli houses and local burrata cheese in Puglia to the ancient Greek temples and street food in Sicily. (Have you ever tried traditional risotto-stuffed arancini? Get ready for a crispy and creamy treat!) I also can’t say enough about our guides. They are so passionate and transform each experience into something special.

One of my favorite moments of this unusual Italy journey is biking in the trulli country of Puglia, stopping along the way to taste local cheeses and olive oils. That said, learning how to make pasta in Puglia from a local nonna (grandmother) is up there when it comes to special, authentic moments.” – Gretchen Traut, Europe Specialist 

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RWANDA GORILLA TREKKING & HIGHLIGHTS

“The most exciting thing about Rwanda is its path of healing and progress. Its people are open, honest, and welcoming, and the country is bursting with art, fine dining, fashion, design, nature, wildlife, and exemplary conservation efforts. It blows away stereotypes and is a safe, fun, vibrant, lush, beautiful place to visit. I was thrilled to craft our Rwanda journey to share all of this.

My favorite moments of the trip: Soaking up Kigali’s café culture, speaking with locals about history and forgiveness, chatting with our informative guides, taking in breathtaking scenery en route to Volcanoes National Park, and watching in awe as a gorilla family went about their daily lives right in front of me. This gorilla trekking experience changed my outlook on life and will stay with me forever.” – Dervla Pinto

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VIETNAM EXPLORER

“Vietnam is captivating, and I crafted this trip to truly showcase its highlights – a touch of history, gorgeous scenery, and incredible flavors. It also spends time in my favorite place to wander (or get lost!): Hoi An.

The journey takes our travelers through the ancient streets of Hanoi like a local – on the back of a Vespa! – and contrasts Hoi An’s timeless charm with Ho Chi Minh City’s modern vibrancy. They’ll savor local specialties, from steaming bowls of fragrant phở to the refreshing herbs of an expertly wrapped bánh xèo, a sort of crispy pancake. And because no classic Vietnam trip would be complete without taking in the jaw-dropping limestone pinnacles of Halong Bay, I’ve planned an overnight cruise with options for swimming, kayaking, and exploring caves.” – Janie Worster, Asia Specialist

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ANTARCTICA ADVENTURES

“So many people skip out in Antarctica because of the “cruise element.” But expedition cruising is NOT cruising in any way, shape, or form you may think of. Swap monstrous boats and thousands of people for intimate best-in-class expedition vessels with 75-200 guests and often a 2:1 staff ratio, lectures by experts, a science center, Zodiac outings, walks with penguins, and astonishing sightings of icebergs and breaching whales. Plus, you have a whole family of charismatic expedition leaders and guides – marine biologists, naturalists, glaciologists, penguinologists (it’s a real thing), ornithologists, photographers, Polar historians, and more – to expand your understanding of nature and the world.

I’ve put together many excellent options for exploring Antarctica, and you can decide how active you want to be each day. Since I love outdoor action, my personal favorite is the Basecamp itinerary. Every activity is included, such as sea kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, mountaineering, and photo workshops. I even spent a night camping under the stars. I never expected to be so amazed by the glaciers – masterpieces of nature the arcs, glowing blue, sparkling towers… it’s unbelievable.”  – Jeff Lee, Latin America + Polar Specialist 

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SPAIN: CAMINO DOS FAROS

“I’m obsessed with Galicia. It’s a gorgeous region in Spain’s northwest corner perhaps best known for the popular Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, which leads to Galicia’s capital, Santiago de Compostela. But few have heard of the Camino dos Faros  (the Lighthouse Way), a sacred trek that is truly off the beaten path in all senses. It clings to jagged cliffs and meanders between the smallest fishing villages. It’s like exploring the end of the world! In fact, that’s where this journey ends: at Finisterre, “the end of the world.”

I love hiking the Camino dos Faros, taking in ocean views, ambling past windswept dunes, stoic lighthouses, and serene estuaries. And then enjoying my evenings in seaside towns interacting with residents and savoring tasty tapas and glasses of Albarino wine.” – Gretchen Traut, Europe Specialist

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SOUTH AFRICA FAMILY SAFARI

“South Africa is a perfect destination for family travel! A safari is often considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience, or even life-changing. Experiencing it with one’s kids, nieces, nephews, siblings, grandchildren – whatever shape or size is a travel memory that will never be forgotten. Witnessing wild animals in their natural environment is humbling, exhilarating, and peaceful all at once, and brings new perspectives. Both adults and children thoroughly enjoy their time at Madikwe Private Game Reserve during the tour, as it excels in accommodating families, ensuring everyone’s safety during the safari, and offering additional activities such as junior ranger programs and scavenger hunts. Plus, many lodges offer babysitting – a hit among parents!”

From the vibrant colors of Bo-Kaap and Kirstenbosch Gardens to the opportunities for biking, hiking, and kayaking, along with the educational aspect stemming from its fascinating history and culture, Cape Town “wow’s” travelers of all ages.” – Heather Deakin, Africa Specialist

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MACHU PICCHU & AMAZON

“There is a reason I am proud to call Peru home. The country contains a wealth of wonders, from archeological sensations like Machu Picchu and Lima’s world-class cuisine and museums to the mind-boggling biodiversity of the Amazon. Peru – and this itinerary – is full of adventure and discovery.

I want to help Vaya travelers authentically experience the country, as free from crowds as possible. They’ll delve into lost Incan cities, contemporary Peruvian culture, exceptional wildlife, and off-the-beaten-path places. The accommodations are first class, reflecting the best of local culture, and the immersive outings are led by excellent local private guides. The best part is tailoring an itinerary to match our travelers’ preferences and interests, allowing them to engage in community visits, culinary classes, rafting, paddleboarding, conservation efforts, night safaris, and more.” – Melissa Marini, Latin America Specialist

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