USTOA’s Live Like a Local Series
My first Night Market in Taipei was overwhelming, sensational and addictive. I was enthralled by stall after stall of the exotic foods, wild clothing and the buzzing energy of the streets. Shillin & Ning Xia are MUST-STOPS in Taiwan—see why.
The Northern Territory is built for adventure and almost everything we did involved some sort of mini-adventurous activity. We hiked the mountains of Kings Canyon and 4 Wheeled through the valleys, dodging camels. We even rode domesticated camels through the bush at sunset with Uluru glowing in the background.
Not to mention, we got up-close and personal with some of the Northern Territory’s “friendly” wildlife. The Outback is not for the faint of heart. 🙂
The Northern Territory is the “Red Heart” of Australia, located in the center, this landscape is ruggedly beautiful and pre-historic feeling. I take you to UNESCO World Heritage sites, like Uluru, and I camp in Kings Canyon, the most remote place I’ve ever been. From Camel treks to 4 wheeling, to walks with local Aboriginal guides, the Northern Territory is like a different planet. And it’s wonderful.
The Aborigines are the oldest still living culture in the world and it was an honor to get to meet many of the locals residing in the Northern Territory. I was able to learn about “Bush Tucker” or food in the wild, dot painting and more about how their people have lived in the harsh Outback for thousands of years.
From the second you get off the plane throughout the whole experience, USTOA member Swain Destinations, makes sure that comfort is on the menu. You don’t have to think while on tour–you can sit back and enjoy world renowned hotels, sip famed wines, taste gourmet meals and leave all the stress out of travel. From Singita Castleton in Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve to the One & Only in Capetown, you experience only the best.
The Food & Wine of South Africa on tour with Swain Destinations
Food is a big part of my travels at least, and when I was heading off to South Africa, I was giddy with excitement as I knew this country was home to a burgeoning food scene and world renowned wines.
My tour with Swain Destinations made sure that we had access to the best of the best–the highest quality dishes handcrafted while in Kruger National Park, incredible wines right from the source in the Cape Winelands and meals at some of the best restaurants in Cape Town. Eat & drink up!
It made all the difference that we had extremely bright Egyptologists with us at every site. They made sure to explain all the important parts in a way that was easy to understand and they never tired of all our questions. I learned so much more on this trip than I ever learned in school because of their skills. It truly makes the Egyptian experience come to life.
One of the most storied histories in the world, Egypt has long been a popular destination for it’s history, it’s culture and of course, it’s amazing pyramids & temples. Egypt needs to be on every person’s bucket list–see why this country changed me.
I was thinking a lot about temples & pyramids when I was heading to Egypt but what I didn’t expect was how great the food was! Largely vegetarian, I had the most light and chewy bread, soft & fluffy falafel and surprisingly tasty savory koshary, made with chickpeas & lentils. And the hummus–WOW. From our gourmet restaurants to street food, Egypt’s food is exoctically delicious!
Garmisch Partenkirchen–the postcard perfect Bavarian region with sky high mountains, deep gorges and wildflower fields.
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