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Greatest adventures, the world's most extraordinary adventures.

Welcome to The Explorer’s Passage

The world’s greatest adventures, you are an adventurer…, you dream about exploring ancient cities…, you have a passion for protecting our planet…, tep is your adventure travel company, the premier adventure tour company on the planet.

Our Featured Adventures

Each of our adventures are unique in that they tell a story….

Galápagos Safari

Encounter flora and fauna seen nowhere else on Earth on islands famed for their biodiversity

Ecuador | Days: 6 | From: $5,995

Explore pyramids, cross the Sahara Desert, cruise the Nile, and unravel ancient mysteries 

Egypt | Days: 9+ | From: $2,995

Follow an ancient trade route through the Himalayas on this challenging trek

Nepal | Days: 18 | From: $4,295

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“I cannot recommend The Explorer’s Passage enough!”

“Unmatched customer service and an incredible travel experience I wouldn’t change for the world…”

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A collection of adventure tips, travel insights, and our latest news from the trail..

A Traveler’s Must-Read Guide to the Chilkoot Trail Hike

By The Explorer’s Passage | 2024-02-21T13:00:11-05:00 February 9th, 2024 |

Prepare for you trip to the Yukon with this must-read guide to the Chilkoot Trail hike - an iconic hike in the Americas, rich in history and nature!

All You Need to Know About the Virgen del Carmen Festival in Peru

By The Explorer’s Passage | 2024-01-19T02:24:20-05:00 September 22nd, 2023 |

Your guide to celebrating the Virgen del Carmen Festival in Paucartambo, Peru. Learn about the exciting history of the festival, when it’s celebrated, how to get there, and more!

Top Attractions on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica

By The Explorer’s Passage | 2023-08-07T16:26:37-04:00 August 7th, 2023 |

Your complete guide to visiting the Osa Peninsula - the most biologically intense place on earth. Includes expert tips for planning your Costa Rica trip and the best things to do while there.

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Scenic Parks Explorer

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15 Day US National Parks tour from Yellowstone to Grand Canyon

15 days, 1 country and 21 cities

Accommodation

14 Breakfasts, 1 Welcome Reception, 2 Lunches, 6 Dinners

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This National Parks tour is an iconic journey, culminating at the Grand Canyon, through Zion’s pink cliffs, Monument Valley’s imposing mesas, Grand Tetons’ alpine landscapes and Mount Rushmore’s rock-hewn faces. Hear from a Native American storyteller and overnight in Yellowstone, soaking it all in in just 15 days.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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Day by day itinerary

15 days itinerary trip from Las Vegas to Las Vegas visiting 1 country and 21 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Navajo Tribal Park with a Navajo guide and the Grand Canyon with Tim, a Local Specialist and Geologist

Visit Zion, Bryce Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park, Arches, Mesa Verde, Grand Canyon National Parks, The Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Little Bighorn Battlefield, Monument Valley

Discover Las Vegas and its High Roller, Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, Rapid City, The Mile High City of Denver

View Crazy Horse Memorial, iconic Mount Rushmore in South Dakota

See iconic Delicate Arch

Scenic Drive along Desert View Drive, Zion Canyon Road

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

All transport and transfers shown

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Peep our BRAND NEW Yosemite Hiking Trip !!

We’re HIRING! Join the Explorer Chick team .

Book Your  International Summer Vacay

Sisterhood. Adventures. SHEnanigans.

Life changing travel for women since 2014, bring on the adventure of a lifetime, as voted by readers.

Explorer Chick exists to change lives.

We just so happen to do it through women’s adventure travel with our supportive community in the most beautiful places on earth., need to get away like now.

It’s never too late to squeeze in an adventure – especially when we do most of the planning. All you have to do is board a plane. Here are our upcoming trips departing in the next few months that have room for you.

8 DAYS, CROATIA

9 DAYS, ECUADOR

3 DAYS, VIRGINIA

2 DAYS, KENTUCKY

4 DAYS, UTAH

Featured Destination: Slovenia

Let us fill you in on our favorite hidden gem in Europe… Slovenia. Ancient capital city exploration? Check. Hiking in the Alps? Check. Winery bike tours? Check. Slo-what-now?!

Slovenia is, without a doubt, a hiking haven. With emerald lakes, jagged peaks, pine forests, and rolling hills, there truly is no place like it. They’ve even got lakes that look like Blue Gatorade. You gotta see it with your own eyes!

Are you ready for jaw-dropping views? Drool-worthy Insta photos? The turquoise-green hues of this beautiful lake reflecting the blue skies above the surrounding mountains are sure to leave you totally enchanted.

Explorer Chick is more than your next trip.

Our Explorer Chicks who journey with us elevate our trips from just another tour to a full-on, almost cult status community of traveling women. You show up ALL IN. Willing to connect to strangers, say YES to things that scare you, be spontaneous, and let go of that woman you left behind at home.

What's Your Style?

Break out the Passport, she’s thirsting for another stamp. Rock up solo or bring a friend to any of our trips spanning five continents.

Workin’ for the weekend? Us too, girl! How about skipping that date with your couch, grab your girlfriends, and join us for one our weekend trips in the great outdoors?

Tick off your next National Park by not only hiking the best trails but with guides who share stories to draw you deeper into your surroundings.

Get off the grid and hike to a new spot to sleep each night. Self-supported or supported. Tents to Mountain Huts. Every reason to stay up late under a starry sky.

Ready, Set, Jet: Join Us Internationally This Summer!

Dust off those passports and get ready to tackle with world! From the sun-kissed shores of Croatia to the untouched beauty of the Galapagos Islands and jaw-dropping bucket list treks all around Europe, we’ve curated the ultimate summer vacations just for you. Secure your spot now – the world is calling, and Explorer Chick is ready to take you there!

8 DAYS, SLOVENIA

8 DAYS, ITALY

8 DAYS, NORWAY

8 DAYS, SCOTLAND

Download our Free Training Guide

Get your hands on our complete full-body training plan to help you get trip ready that requires no fancy equipment and can be done anywhere.

In her Words

Real Women. Real Adventures.

⏰Last Chance to Save BIG on ALL Trips! 🚨Sale ENDS Tonight! It’s time to do something extraordinary. Be bold, dream BIG and take a chance on yourself! What leap are you taking this year? ⛺️Is it venturing solo to join us at West Virginia Wild? 🥾Or maybe conquering your fear of heights by backpacking Half Dome? ✨Chasing your bucket list moment of witnessing the northern lights dance with us in Iceland? Whether you’re marking a milestone birthday, embracing a new chapter in life, conquering challenges head-on, or simply seeking joy because life is too dang short to wait to start living, we’re here to support you every step of the way. 💗 So, be brave, take that leap, and remember, it’s the most life-changing gift you can give yourself. 🔗Go to the link in our bio to save hundreds. 👉Code: LeapOfCourage #ExplorerChick #bucketlist #Traveltheworld #travelsale #leapday #solotravel #womentravelgroup

⏰Sale ENDS Tomorrow! On this special Leap Week, dare to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the extraordinary. Seize the opportunity to take a chance and create a new narrative in the story of your life! 🇮🇸Save $530 on Iceland and see the northern lights 💦Save $500 on Croatia and catch waterfalls 🏔Save $530 on Italy and hike the Dolomites 🦍Save $1,200 on Uganda for a bucket list trip 🥾Save $450 on Slovenia and hike hut to hut in the Alps 🚐Save $380 on Utah Road Trip and see all of Utah’s National Parks 🐺Save $460 on Yellowstone and Grand Teton Hiking 🇳🇴Save $600 on Lofoten Norway for an Arctic Circle adventure 🐢Save $530 on Galapagos and explore like Darwin 🌿Save $400 on Belize and adventure in the Jungle 🤑Save 10% on ALL 2024 trips, even big bucket list adventures! 🔗Link in our bio to take a bold leap of courage into your dream adventure! 💬Have any questions? Drop them in the comments! #ExplorerChick #bucketlist #Traveltheworld #travelsale #leapday #solotravel #womentravelgroup

⭐️FLASH SALE MULTISPORT TRIPS⭐️ 🤑Save 10% on ALL 2024 trips through Sunday, February March 3rd. 🧊Save $490 on Iceland! 🥥Save $400 on Belize! 🦍Save $1,200 on Uganda! 🐫Save $460 on Jordan! 🥾Save $430 Machu Picchu Multisport! 🍷Save $450 on Slovenia! 🛥Save $500 on Croatia! 🦍Save $1,200 on Uganda! 🐢Save $530 on Galapagos! 🍝Save $530 on Italy! 🧗‍♀️ Save $230 on Vegas! 🥾Save $280 on Moab Multisport! 🚣🏼‍♀️Save $420 on Alaska! 🎣Save $600 on Norway! Take that bold leap of courage and embark on a journey where each day brings new adrenaline-pumping activities, from biking and kayaking to climbing and ziplining. 🔗Go to the link in our bio to save! ⏰Sale ENDS on Sunday, March 3rd 👉Code: LeapOfCourage *sale discounts can not be combined with early bird discounts #ExplorerChickWestVirginiaWinter #ExplorerChick #WV #CanaanValley #xcskiing #girlstrip #womenover40

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384 Trips match your criteria (1 - 20 shown)

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

Amalfi Coast, Naples, Pompeii, Positano

• Enjoy five stunning Amalfi Coast day-walks, dine on home-cooking at a rustic agriturismo
• Take on the Walk of the Gods, one of the most stunning hikes in Italy, if not the world
• Explore the highlights of Capri, Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Pompeii and Herculaneum

Jordan Discovery

Amman, Aqaba, Dead Sea, Jerash, Jerusalem, Madaba, Petra, Wadi Rum

• A journey through the best of Jordan, from Roman ruins to the Red Sea
• Spend two full days exploring the tombs and temples of The Rose Red City of Petra
• Experience Bedouin living at a secluded traditional camp on the sands of Wadi Rum

Cultural, Hiking & Walking

Simply Japan

Hakone, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Matsumoto, Mount Fuji, Nijo Castle, Osaka, Takayama, Tokyo

• Experience the buzz of modern Tokyo and ancient Kyoto's temples, shrines and Zen gardens
• Meet the snow monkeys and spend a night in temple lodgings, joining the monks for morning prayers
• Explore the samurai district of Kanazawa and try Japan's best sake at Takayama

Why we love Explore!

They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.

Greek Island Wanderer

Acropolis, Akrotiri, Athens, Delos, Moni , Mykonos, Paro, Santorini

• Island hopping between the Cyclades Islands of Syros, Paros, Santorini and Naxos
• Visit gleaming waterfront harbours, rocky coves and sandy beaches
• Explore the historic capital city of Athens with the chance to visit the Acropolis

Malta and Gozo Discovery

Gozo, Grand Harbour, Mdina, Mosta, Sicily, Sliema, Valletta

• Highlights tour of Malta and Gozo exploring these Mediterranean islands
• Explore Malta's capital of Valetta and its fortifications, churches, Grand Harbour
• Discover the oldest freestanding structures in the world including the temple of Ggantija

Highlights of Portugal

Bar, Coimbra, Douro Valley, Lisbon, Porto, Sintra

• Discover the highlights of Portugal traveling from Lisbon to Porto
• Enjoy tastings of port, wine and the traditional sour cherry liqueur, Ginjinha
• Explore the famous Douro Valley

Turkey in Depth

Acropolis, Ankara, Antalya, Aphrodisias, Blue Mosque, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Goreme, Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Konya, Pamukkale, Pergamum, Selcuk, Troy

• Explore Turkey's highlights on this comprehensive two week trip
• Visit famous Greco-Roman sites, enjoy vibrant cities and relax on the stunning coastline
• Discover Cappadocia's unusual landscape, underground cities and rock-cut churches

Highlights of Albania

Berat, Elba, Gjirokaster, Kruja, Tirana

• Travel through Albania while discovering its fascinating history and culture
• Discover Butrint, one of the greatest archaeological sites in the Balkans
• Stroll along UNESCO-Listed towns and visit hilltop castles

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Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Similar top rated trips

Explore reviews & ratings, cycle saigon to hanoi.

Wow, what a trip. An awesome tour from Saigon to Hanoi under the excellent guidance of our tour leader Doan. Doan and his amazing local support team made the journ...

Treasures of Jordan

Abdullah was an excellent guide who made our trip run very smoothly with as much time as possible at the various attractions. He was very knowledgible, empathatic, s...

Rome, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Our Tour leader: Walter, was brillient, both helpful and made it fun. Included travel & transfers where great. Both Revello & Naples city walk was very diffe...

Excellent Tour. Our leader Zuhair was great. The hotels were a good standard, all clean. The night camping in the desert was great it was less basic than I had expec...

Lisa Wilkinson

Very good - very helpful and keen to ensure you have the info you need..

This was a little more complicated than most trips in that the trip is a polar expedition which offers several different levels of cabin accommodation. These were n...

See all Explore! reviews

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On Travelstride you can find 384 trips to Explore! and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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All Tours Operated By Expat Explore Travel

Discover the best Expat Explore Travel adventures in one convenient place. TourRadar offers 67 Expat Explore Travel tours. You can find the perfect trip spanning across 5 day to 26 day itineraries with prices starting from just EUR 77 per day!

67 Expat Explore Travel trips

• Coach / Bus

Europe Escape

The trip was an absolute great taste of several Western European countries. We jammed a lot of itinerary into a twelve day trip. Overall, the accomodations and meals were favorable. I would like to make a suggestion. On the first day or the trip, we were walked for miles through the side streets of Venice. People were not ready for this level of exertion on the very frist day of the trip. Within days, I saw two women limping and wearing knee braces in order to walk. There were people utilizing canes to walk. I have Lupus and am prone to bouts of fatigue, especially when expoised to too much sun and heat. I would ask that the company appropriates a water taxi for the coach passengers that will drop them off at the dick right next to Piazza San Marco.rather than that grind of a walk throught the side streets. People want to see the Piazza, not the side streets That first miles long walk took its toll on many of the passengers. I even saw one women entering the coach and break into tears because of her pain level. Most of the people on this trip were in their fifties and sixties. I'm sure they were not expecting such a rigorous daily regiment. I'm 6' 6'' and 300+. I was averaging 10,000 to 15, 000 steps a day on on uneven cobblestone, and boy did it ever take its toll on my knees and joints. I'm still recovering from the achy knees. That's the only suggestion I have. Find a way to get the tourist from point A to B without having people on vacation walk for multiple miles. It's a vacation. You're not supposed to return home injured and in pain.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• River Cruise
• Christmas & New Year

Egypt Nile Jewel

Egypt permids were beautiful. Everything was beyond expectations.

Europe Taster

We had an amazing time Steve as our tour guide and Damien as our Driver were both phenomenal! Amazing group of people and the tour itself was amazing. Thank you

Europe Jewel

The Europe Jewel was so well planned and packed with exciting adventures, the tour guide and bus driver did an amazing job of keeping us safe and informed. We made some amazing friends from all around the world which made this tour even better. We had a blast!!

Classic Europe

The tour was well organized, Adam our tour leader is the best, so patient and calm specially dealing w/ 30 different people, we didn't worry about anything because its being handled. Florin our driver is the best also on the road, making sure our safety. The experience we had exceeded our expectations and definitely sets a high bar for any other tour .

• In-depth Cultural

Egypt Nile Adventure

Wow!! More than I could have imagined in one trip. George (Tamer) was an excellent tour guide!! We always felt safe and taken care of. 100% recommend

European Highlights

Pre-trip support was awful. Up until the bus arrived we thought we were being scammed. The trip itself was great, but too much time on the bus. Tim was a super guy. The best! Wonderful personality and very helpful. (He could have provided more commentary along the way.) James was a kind man and skilled driver. We liked him a lot.

Best of UK & Ireland

Covered a lot of places in the 13 days but while that was good in some ways it was also exhausting. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and the coach driver did a great job even though the roads were very narrow in places - you always knew you were in good hands. My favourite places we visited were the optional extra excursions so I wouldn't plan to do the tour without expecting to do some of the extra options. Met some great people and everyone worked well together. The hotels were 3 and a few 4 star but go into it knowing you aren't getting 5 star hotels. Overall I would say it was a great experience but next time I'll just pick an area to tour instead of trying to fit so much into the one tour.

Italian Delights

We saw a lot in the time we were there. Our tour leader, Martina (Marty) was fabulous!

Ultimate Europe

Ultimate Europe 26 day Tour Tour Leader: Luke Watson If your a travel seeker, city wonderer, and history buff with a curious personality I would highly recommend spending a month in Europe with Luke! From day 1 when you arrive in Greenwich, London to day 26 when you arrive back in Greenwich, London you will have a fantastic experience! Every sense comes alive and every moment becomes a memory you won't forget. Having to wake up between 6:30am and 8:00am is totally worth it. There is no reason to sleep in as there is so much to do. I have been on other escort tours in the past and out of all the Tour Director (TD)/Tour Leaders (TL) I have met I would highly recommend Luke as a TD/TL. He has very strong communication skills, leadership skills, management skills, theatrical skills, and has common sense. With Luke, there are only solutions, not problems. He uses observational comedy to get the point across which is a skill many people do not have. A good guide can hold a mic and talk about what is outside the window on a motor coach but an excellent guide knows when to talk, what to talk about and when to shut up. Luke is a natural excellent guide! Tips for USA Travelers: 1.) Bring a months worth of Protein Bars because European meals are the size of the appetizers in the states. Getting a quick bite to eat on your walk is a bit rough since the cities do not have many hot food/sandwich shops/deli's with a thousand options of fresh and hot food to take with you. You can not customize your food in the way you can do in the States. Just keep filling up on food as you go. 2.) If you looking for quality though expensive go shopping in Venice and Paris. You will be thankful that Walmart isn't going to blind you at every corner. 3.) Just do the excursions. This may be your only chance and its worth it. 4.) If you want this trip to be a more of a wild adventure, you can hug the naked statues, go shirtless (ladies too) and stick your body out the train window when riding to the top of Europe in Switzerland, jump into the Berlin fountains, go the Berlin nude clubs, experience the sauna's, do anything you wouldn't do back home ("that's legal"). 5.) Find out when and where Luke is guiding and go on that tour.

Highlights of Spain and Portugal

all action, had a great time

Balkan Explorer

A well-planned, well-executed trip! I very much enjoyed the entire experience. At first, when it was announced to our group of 38 that we would be rotating seats on a daily basis, I was a bit skeptical. However, I soon realized that it was actually a very good idea, as everyone got their turn having the front seat, etc. and nobody could fuss over who sat where. Our guide, Carly, was very experienced with group travel, very knowledgeable, and a pleasure to have as a guide. Our accommodations were great, the meals were very good, and we saw some fabulous sites during the trip. I really liked the 2-night stays in both Dubrovnik and Budapest, with enough free time to go to the beach in Croatia and the baths in Hungary! I would travel with Expat Explorer again in a heartbeat!

Taste of Spain

Excellent tour great tour leader

Croatian & Eastern Delights

It was a great trip, slightly hectic, but we saw a lot of places. Dee was an excellent tour guide, patient, considerate and full of information on history of the places we visited. Tour Radar also was great to deal with, they made it easy to book, complete all information needed and reply promptly to any queries. I would happily recommend both companies.

Great Britain

Amazing!! Highly recommend. This tour is the trip of a lifetime.

Reviews of Expat Explore Travel Tours

Great experience. Very fun.

The itinerary for the trip was jam-packed and we like it that way! We thought it was very good value for money. All the sites that were included were amazing and we loved all the additional add-ons. Our tour guide George was wonderful in providing everything we could have possibly ever needed. He was knowledgeable kind friendly and we felt safe the whole time. Although we disliked waking up at 4:00 in the morning to leave sometimes we appreciated the overall organization of the tour. It meant that we got to see the sites when it wasn't too busy. We loved the sense of adventure trying new food meeting the locals and exploring the culture of Egypt. We would definitely recommend this tour to other people looking for an adventure in Egypt!

This trip exceeded my expectations. It was a great way to see many places in Europe within a short time and to give a taste of those places. After after visited, I would like to explore these destinations further. Our guide again was fantastic!

• Europe (52)

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Choose from more than 80 trips across 50 countries around the world, our most popular tours.

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Book 2025 Tours Now

Expat Explore tour dates for 2025 are now available! Book now for early access to the best rates, and secure your seats with just a 10% deposit.

See more of the world in 2025 with Expat Explore by embarking on one of our single or multi-country guided group tours. Prices won’t get lower than this, so take advantage of the opportunity to plan your 2025 travels for less.

Click below to view our 2025 departures, book your spot with a 10% deposit and enjoy flexible bookings should your plans change.

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Unrivalled Value for Money

We specialise in affordable and hassle-free group holidays just for you. Our coach tours are led by expert tour leaders and passionate local guides.

30-Day Money Back Guarantee

We understand that life can be unpredictable. You can now book with the comfort of knowing you have 30 days to change your mind with a full refund of your 10% deposit!

Quality Tour Promise

Explore travel with our range of group tours from introductory multi-country itineraries to more regional in-depth options.

Discover Amsterdam Like Locals

Most popular expat explore tours view all tours.

Here's why you should join a group tour with Expat Explore

You book your trip and we take care of the rest (help with your visa, itinerary, accommodation and transport).

Great local suppliers and group deals ensure little to no waiting time or queues. We’ve also got some incredible last-minute travel deals!

We value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We're proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!

It’s our life’s mission to help you tick off your bucket list and make memories and travel experiences that will stay with you forever! Travel stories are sure to keep the adventure alive long after it’s over.

A planned itinerary means no hidden costs, making it easy to stick to your budget! We’ve even got some amazing ‘how-to travel on a budget’ tips just for you.

Our rail and coach tours combine safety and comfort as we put you first. Expect comfortable transport and quality hotels. Our transport, travel crew and partners meet our updated standards and health and hygiene requirements.

When you book an Expat Explore group tour through us, we ensure the quality of your experience from start to finish. Explore travel like never before.

As a return traveller, enjoy a great discount when you choose to book with Expat Explore again!

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"Some of the nicest people I know I’ve met on Expat tours. The tour leaders are friendly professionals who know their jobs inside and out and are great traveling companions as well. Expat does all the work, including great bus drivers, hotels, breakfasts, and many dinners, while customers like me just sit back and enjoy some of the best experiences of a lifetime!"

“I admit that deciding to travel with strangers does initially sound awkward but by the end of Day 1, those strangers soon become my travelling friends and a rare few eventually become like family. I have found that everyone has one thing in common, and that is a love of the country we have all set out to explore.”

“Group tours prove to be great travel options for many people – they offer a fun and convenient way to travel, with trusted tour leaders and the company of like-minded travellers. “They’re great fun,” says Angela, “You meet so many interesting people and have many opportunities to interact with the group. The other benefit is that you can separate yourself from the group too if you want some time alone.”

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What can you expect from Expat Explore Travel group tours?

Expat Explore is one of Europe's best-value tour operators, and has been offering affordable group vacations for over 15 years! With over 100 tour programmes all around the world; including the USA and Canada, Africa, the Middle East, South America and Asia!

Why are coach tours a great choice for your affordable group vacations?

Coach travel is the safest and most comfortable, hassle-free way to travel. You’ll travel between destinations in a modern, air-conditioned tour bus, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy watching the scenery go by.

Explore the world with us! Take a look below to see just some of the places we go

Europe Tour Packages

Enjoy a multi-country Europe tour that allows you to tick off a few bucket-list destinations all in one go! Our tours leave from London, Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, Madrid, Munich, Copenhagen, Athens, Baku, Helsinki and Split. From exploring 3 countries in 7 days to 13 countries in 31 days - there is an affordable tour package just for you! Our tours through Europe include Eastern Europe, so you can visit places like Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia and more. Why not treat yourself to an unforgettable Christmas and New Year tour ? See the wonder of Europe with a touch of festive magic!

Group Vacations UK & Ireland

Join us for tours throughout the UK as we explore and marvel at the sights and landscapes of this beautiful region. Our UK tours range from 7 days exploring the beauty of Ireland and Northern Ireland to a full 13-day adventure exploring England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales! Go on great outings in London, Dublin, Belfast, York and more. See iconic sites like Big Ben, Westminster and the Tower of London; not to mention Stonehenge and Edinburgh Castle! Look forward to magnificent natural sites such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Giant's Causeway which are on our UK and Ireland itineraries too!

USA & Canada Tours

Our destinations include a range of tours outside of Europe, including the USA and Canada! Our Eastern USA & Canada tours include must-see sights on a 12-day jam-packed tour including Niagara Falls, and the historic cities of Boston, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. Visit Quebec City, Toronto, Detroit, Pittsburgh and much more! Or, add two extra days in New York City and tick even more sights off your bucket list.

Middle East & Africa Tours

Our Middle East and Africa tours range from 6 days in South Africa, to 15 days in Egypt and Jordan. You can tour through Israel and Jordan over 10 days; where you can visit the iconic sights of Petra, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem and have the unique experience of sleeping in a Bedouin campsite. Or, you can explore Egypt over 9 days and visit the ancient sites of the Great Pyramids, Luxor Temple and more, as well as cruising down the Nile and snorkelling in the Red Sea. Or, enjoy 10 days wandering the historic sites of Turkey in Istanbul, Troy, Pamukkale, Cappadocia and more. You can explore South Africa over 14 days and get the full experience through Cape Town, Johannesburg and the Garden Route. Sights include a safari experience, stunning beaches, the winelands and much more.

South America Tours

From 10 days in Brazil and 11 days in Peru to exciting group trips through multiple countries, our tours through Latin and South America are sure to add some adventure to your life! Tick off your bucket-list destinations and sites and visit places like the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu in Peru, Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Iguazu Falls which straddles the border of Argentina and Brazil, Monteverde’s Cloud Forest in Costa Rica and much, much more!

Discover the incredible destinations and culture in Asia with our tours to Japan, Vietnam and Cambodia! Experience the Highlights of Japan over 11 days, explore Cambodia in 5 days or tour through Vietnam and Cambodia on the perfect 15-day tour. See the iconic, must-see sights in Vietnam and Cambodia as you roam through the Angkor Wat complex, Ha Long Bay, the Cu Chi Tunnels and the cities of Hanoi, Saigon and Hoi An. There is so much to see and do in these beautiful countries!

Memberships

Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) We are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y6593. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offer you ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes which is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. If we can’t resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code and ABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on  www.abta.com . You can also access the European Commission Online Dispute (ODR) Resolution platform at  https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/ . This ODR platform is a means of registering your complaint with us; it will not determine how your complaint should be resolved. As a member of ABTA, Expat Explore stays informed with the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office. For up-to-date travel advice before embarking on your trip.

Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust (ABTOT) The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for Expat Explore Travel, membership number 5517, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for:

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ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if transportation was included in your package.  Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Expat Explore Travel.  

In the unlikely event that you require assistance whilst abroad due to our financial failure, please call our 24/7 helpline on 01702 811397 and advise you are a customer of an ABTOT protected travel company.

You can access The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/634/contents/made  

You can find out more about ABTOT here: https://www.abtot.com/

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Paris Olympic Games 2024: Everything you need to know to enjoy your trip to France

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Sporting Activities

Reading time: 0 min Published on 15 March 2024, updated on 26 April 2024

For the first time since 1924, Paris is preparing to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. From 26 July 2024 and for 45 days, the City of Light and the whole of France will be celebrating this global event, bringing together 10,500 athletes and 4,400 para-athletes. The 13 million ticket holders who have gone on sale will be in for a spectacular and emotional time. Provided they have planned ahead. Buying tickets, accommodation, transport... We tell you everything you need to know to enjoy a hassle-free competition.

10 million tickets for sale on a single website

If you're eagerly anticipating the 2024 Olympics and wish to attend any of the events, it's important to exercise caution. Only purchase tickets for the Olympic and Paralympic Games of Paris 2024 from the official website official website , which follows a strict and monitored procedure. The “Official Ticketing of the Paris 2024 Games” is an exclusive, 100% digital, and secure platform operated by the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee, catering to spectators worldwide. Avoid purchasing tickets through any other sales channels. Be wary of third-party websites offering tickets and report any such scams on the Signal Conso Platform for consumer fraud. If you're a fraud victim, file a preliminary complaint with the police Pré-Plainte .

Important information: Beware of purchasing tickets or packages outside of official channels, you run the risk of paying a significantly higher price than the face value, buying a counterfeit or electronically resold ticket, and being denied access to Olympic venues. Consider yourself warned: Paris 2024 will not issue any refunds in case of fraud.

Hospitality Options

In addition to individual tickets, there is an official program called “Hospitality Paris 2024” offering packages open to all. These packages guarantee tickets to attend the majority of Olympic sporting events, combined with access to hospitality services on competition sites or in the heart of cities (accommodation, transportation, gastronomy, tourist activities, etc.). Hospitality offers and Paris 2024 travel packages are available on a dedicated official and secure website, as well as through a global network of sub-distributors established by On Location , the official hospitality provider, in collaboration with Paris 2024 and its official hospitality program.

Important information: The unauthorized sale or resale of tickets and packages by actors at retail points or on websites outside of official channels is a crime according to French law (Article 313.6.2 of the Penal Code).

10 million tickets and a strict schedule

The lottery for the sale of individual tickets closed on April 20, 2023. Since May 9, 48-hour purchase slots are gradually being sent by email only to the lucky winners drawn in the lottery. If you have registered for the lottery in this phase, regularly check your email inbox (including your spam folder). The lucky winners will receive a message two days before their designated purchase slot with a limk to access the sale. Be wary of any other solicitations (such as contests with tickets as prizes or invitations sent by email), as they would be illegal.

Important information:

After an initial phase dedicated to the sale of packages, a second phase for individual tickets started on May 11, 2023. All of the events of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games are available for purchase including all the iconic finals, not to mention tickets for the opening and closing ceremonies.

Since sales are happening in real-time, it’s best to log in at the beginning of your allocated 48-hour slot to maximize your chances of getting the desired tickets. In case of unforeseen circumstances preventing you from attending the reserved events, it will be possible to resell your tickets, but only on the dedicated official platform. A tab will be added to facilitate ticket resale. Please note that any resale outside this circuit is strictly prohibited.

A final chance to take part in the 2024 Olympic Games will be offered at the end of 2023, for individual sales without a draw, but on a "first come, first served" basis.

In addition, sales of the 3.4 million tickets for the Para Olympic Games (August 28 to September 8) will take place in autumn 2023.

France has officially become the proud host nation of the next Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024 (the Games of the 33rd Olympiad), receiving the flag from Tokyo. Set to take place exactly 100 years after France’s last summer Games, Paris 2024 will be the largest event ever organised in the country, running from Friday 26 July until Sunday 11 August 2024. It promises to be an inclusive, interactive and sustainable celebration of sport: the first fully gender-balanced and carbon-neutral Olympics, featuring the first-ever Olympic events open to general public participation.

Let's discuss accommodation options for the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games

Whether you've secured tickets for the events or are simply traveling to France to be at the center of the action, finding suitable accommodation in Paris or other host cities should be a top priority. It's wise to plan ahead as the Olympic Games period (July 26th to August 11th, August 28th to September 8th for the Paralympic Games) coincides with France's peak summer season, which is in high demand. You have a range of options including bed and breakfast, hotels, luxury palaces, youth hostels, furnished apartments, campgrounds, or mobile homes. To secure accommodation, you can contact the Paris Tourism Office , go through a real estate rental agency, or explore specialized websites.

Important information: The star rating system for hotels can vary from one country to another. A 3-star hotel in France may not correspond to the criteria of a 3-star hotel in another country… To check the rating of your accommodation, consult the dedicated platform published by Atout France , the French tourism development agency, also the publisher of France.en. By booking a Travel package or Hospitality package, you may have accommodation included. These Travel packages can be found on the Hospitality Travel Packages website.

Coming to France requires planning!

Regardless of the mode of transportation chosen to come France, make sure to complete the necessary formalities. To find out if a visa is required for your stay in France, simply provide some information on the official website for visas to France: France-Visas . Beware of fake administrative websites! Do not be fooled by the use of the Marianne logo or the colors blue-white-red: some fake sites may mimic official websites. It’s essential to verify the website’s internet address: official French administration URLs end with “.gouv.fr” or “fr” and never with “.gouv.org”, “gouv.com” or “-gouv.fr”. Please note that a website in “.fr” does not guarantee its official status.

For more information on the 2024 Olympics read: The Paris Olympics: on track for 2024!

By Redaction France.fr

The magazine of the destination unravels an unexpected France that revisits tradition and cultivates creativity. A France far beyond what you can imagine…

The Paris Olympics: on track for 2024!

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6 top-rated newport mansion tours + tips from a local.

Newport's famed mansions are a must-see in the City by the Sea.

Top-Rated Newport Mansion Tours

Gavin Ashworth | Courtesy of Newport Mansions

Experience peak luxury and elegance at these stunning properties.

More than a century ago, America's wealthiest families commissioned their "summer cottages" to be built in the coastal enclave of Newport, Rhode Island , along the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. The era's most renowned architects outdid one another in size and scale as well as opulence and grandeur. Today, Newport is synonymous with its exquisite Gilded Age mansions, and experiencing them in person is an absolute must.

The majority of the Gilded Age mansions in Newport – but not all – are owned and operated by the Preservation Society of Newport County, and many of the most popular are open to the public year-round. Get ready to explore the Bellevue Avenue Historic District as you tour Newport's best mansions.

The Breakers

Courtesy of Andrea McHugh

Price: From $29 for adults; $10 for youths 6 to 12

Standout perk: The Breakers offers an audio Family Tour that engages young visitors with stories about the lives of the children who summered there, the staff who ran the home and interesting things to see in the mansion, such as the playful dolphin sculpture beneath the grand staircase.

Considered the grande dame of all the Newport mansions, The Breakers was no doubt built to impress. The summertime escape of Cornelius Vanderbilt II and his family was designed by the Gilded Age's preeminent architect, Richard Morris Hunt, and boasts a classic Italian palazzo design with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Visitors can explore the mansion at their own pace via the self-guided audio tour available in nearly a dozen languages on the Newport Mansions free app, which will come in especially handy if you plan to explore more than one mansion. Take some time to explore the beauty of the 13-acre grounds as well, and be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes .

Those with a curiosity of how a mansion of this magnitude worked – after all, The Breakers was considered a modern marvel when completed in 1895 – will enjoy the Beneath The Breakers Tour. This guide-led tour takes you through the boiler room, tunnel and basement. Guests will learn how the home was outfitted with electricity, still considered a novelty during the Gilded Age. This tour requires a separate ticket from The Breakers' audio tour and is best suited for visitors 13 years and older. Advance reservations are recommended.

Local tip: As The Breakers is the most visited mansion in Newport, a good time to visit is either when it opens or toward the end of the day, especially in the busiest summer months. The early evening light can be ideal for photos, but plan accordingly as the house and grounds close one hour after the last tour admission. Before you visit, save time by downloading the free Newport Mansions tour app.

View & Book Tickets: The Breakers | Viator | GetYourGuide

Marble House

Price: From $25 for adults; $10 for youths 6 to 12

Standout perk: While it's hard to rival the splendor of Marble House, the Chinese Tea House on the end of the mansion's lawn parallel to Cliff Walk is an unexpected visual delight. For $35 extra, tour ticket holders to Marble House can enjoy sandwiches and refreshments at the cafe at the Chinese Tea House or make a reservation for brunch and afternoon tea service, offered on weekends May through December. The service is operated by Stoneacre Restaurants, which owns two popular restaurants in downtown Newport.

From the moment visitors walk under the four towering Corinthian columns fronting this mansion, they know they are in for a treat. Like other Newport Mansions audio tours, Marble House has a self-guided tour available via the organization's free app, allowing visitors to peruse the property at their own pace.

Inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles , Marble House is an architectural masterpiece. Made from 500,000 cubic square feet of marble, the mansion was a 39th birthday present from businessman and philanthropist William K. Vanderbilt to his wife Alva. He spared no expense for their summer escape. Later in life, Alva Vanderbilt Belmont became a suffragist and hosted events at Marble House in support of women's right to vote. Viewers of the popular HBO series "The Gilded Age" may recognize rooms in the mansion as it was used for filming on location and also inspired sets.

Local tip: Don't miss the ballroom on the first floor – while it's not the largest in Newport, it's widely considered the most ornate, with gilt details from floor to ceiling.

View & Book Tickets: Marble House | Viator | GetYourGuide

Standout perk: While The Elms is spectacular, its formal gardens – 10 acres' worth – are extraordinary, complete with nearly 40 species of trees plus terraces, gazebos, fountains and colorful blooms, depending on the time of year.

Fashioned after an 18th-century French chateau, The Elms is a must-visit mansion, from the sun-soaked conservatory and the drawing room to the handsome library and the breakfast room bearing Chinese-style lacquered wall panels. A self-guided audio tour is available in nearly a dozen languages, but any fan of "Downton Abbey" or those curious about life behind the scenes of Newport's mansions will appreciate the Servant Life Tour at The Elms.

On this newly updated, guide-led tour, visitors start in the basement, where you'll see the operations of the house such as the kitchen and butler's pantry, all the way up to the domestic staff's living quarters on the third floor. Along the way, travelers will learn more about the personal lives of staff, and see rare photographs of servants at work and in their free time. You'll even get to learn about topics like immigration and labor disputes on this tour.

Local tip: The Servant Life Tour is not only fascinating, but you'll get the rare opportunity to go on The Elms' rooftop and be rewarded with an amazing and unexpected view of Newport Harbor.

View & Book Tickets: The Elms | GetYourGuide

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Rough Point

Price: From $20; free for children 12 and younger

Standout perk: Rough Point sits at the southern end of Bellevue Avenue, so getting here allows you to enjoy views of both private mansions and those open to the public along the way. The mansion's oceanfront perch offers an uninterrupted view of the beautiful Cliff Walk Bridge, a stone arch bridge across the rocky inlet where Doris Duke would swim regularly.

Though a Gilded Age mansion through and through, Rough Point is perhaps best loved not for its grandeur but for its most famous resident: Doris Duke. The late heiress, collector and philanthropist – dubbed the "richest little girl in the world" when she was born – spent considerable time at Rough Point until her death in 1993. A self-guided audio tour leads visitors here through the art-filled home room by room, highlighting eclectic sculpture, family portraits, centuries-old tapestries, renowned furnishings and many pieces Duke collected as an avid world traveler.

While the formal rooms such as the Yellow Room and jaw-dropping Music Room are a sight, the ocean-facing Solarium affords the best views. Whether before or after your tour, visit the house tour on the website for footage of Doris Duke at the home as well as behind-the-scenes videos. Note that Rough Point is typically open seasonally from spring through mid-November.

Local tip: On Rough Point's grounds, you'll find a pair of life-size topiary camels inspired by Doris' pet Bactrian camels, Princess and Baby. Both enjoyed the summer months with the tobacco heiress at Rough Point and have become the unofficial mascots of the mansion. The Newport Restoration Foundation encourages taking a #camelgram photo with the Princess and Baby topiary to share on social media.

View & Book Tickets: Rough Point | GetYourGuide

Dave Hansen | Courtesy of Newport Mansions

Standout perk: Rosecliff's signature feature – despite being home to Newport's largest ballroom, which hosted lavish society events throughout the Gilded Age – is its celebrated heart-shaped grand staircase.

Following a multimillion-dollar renovation, Rosecliff resumed tours in September 2023, much to the delight of Newport's visitors. Architect Stanford White, who was the mastermind behind Newport's historic Casino Theatre and myriad other important buildings, modeled the mansion after the Grand Trianon at Versailles for silver heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs. Its European influence is felt throughout.

Explore the mansion at your own pace via the self-guided audio tour on the free Newport Mansions app. Don't forget to look up in the ballroom, where the trompe l'oeil ceiling creates an air of whimsy and romance, making it the ideal setting for the filming parts of "The Great Gatsby" with Robert Redford and Mia Farrow, as well as the more recent "27 Dresses."

Local tip: Rosecliff hosts many amazing events, including the annual Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival, which features dinners, events and seminars with wines and other libations from around the world.

View & Book Tickets: Rosecliff | Viator

Chateau-sur-Mer

Standout perk: A new audio tour is your guide to this National Historic Landmark, considered Newport's first true mansion. Learn about the lives of the Wetmore family members who lived there for more than a century.

Until the arrival of the Vanderbilt houses in Newport in the 1890s, Chateau-sur-Mer was considered the seaside city's most palatial residence. Today, visitors can explore the home, an Italianate-style villa built for wealthy China trade merchant William Shepard Wetmore, who did quite a bit of entertaining at this summer cottage.

Local tip: While Chateau-sur-Mer is essentially a Victorian Era time capsule, the mansion's grounds are home to amazing tree specimens, shrubs and more, including a striking weeping beech tree. If you explore deeper into the grounds, you'll find a cool circular maze made from mounds of grass; this earthwork by artist Richard Fleischner is known as the "Sod Maze" and makes for a relaxing place to meditate.

View & Book Tickets: Chateau-sur-Mer | GetYourGuide

What to do nearby

In addition to the historic mansions, Newport offers a variety of historic attractions, walking trails and museums. To help you fully explore the area, here are some recommendations for things to see and where to eat.

Things to do:

• Wander along the Cliff Walk
• Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame
• Explore the historic Fort Adams
• Discover automotive history at Audrain Automobile Museum
• Explore The Sailing Museum
• Visit the Redwood Library and Athenæum
• Discover the oldest synagogue in the U.S.
• Browse the private collection at the Newport Car Museum

Nearby restaurant recommendations: 

• Breakfast: Annie's, Lucy's Cafe & Bakery or Corner Cafe
• Lunch: Cru Cafe, Belle's Café or The Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar
• Dinner: White Horse Tavern, Clarke Cooke House or Castle Hill Inn
• Drinks: Midtown Oyster Bar, The Roofdeck at the Vanderbilt or The Lounge at The Chanler

Why Trust U.S. News Travel 

Andrea McHugh is a travel and lifestyle writer based in Newport, Rhode Island, where the famed mansions of the Gilded Age are common sights along her daily run in the City by the Sea. Though she regularly visits the mansions as they play host to local business and social events, such as the Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival, Newport Classical Music Festival and Newport Film, she spent a recent "staycation" touring these turn-of-the-century behemoths to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
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• The Top Things to Do in Vermont

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