Staff picks: 5 trips we love for 2023

Looking for an inside scoop? We've gathered 5 of our own Explore travel experts to find out where they've been, or where they're dreaming of going to, in 2023.

Written by: Akemi Bunce, Digital Content Executive at Explore
Published on: 15 March 2023

Cycle Vietnam

“What better way to meet the locals than to cycle amongst them? Plus it's so easy to grab a refreshing fruit snack as you go - any excuse to 'fuel' the pedal-power! What I'm most looking forward to though are the views at the top of the mountain passes. A worthy reward for our efforts - spectacular!”
- Sarah, Data & CRM Manager

Hit the highlights of Vietnam by bike across 14 days, traversing leisurely cycling routes. Start with the dazzling city of Hanoi, working your way around the Old Quarter and street markets on foot. After getting acquainted with your bike you’ll explore the West Lake, the bustling port of Hoi An, and the eclectic Saigon city. In Ha Long Bay you’ll swap two wheels for a morning cruise among the towering limestone islands.

Costa Rica Wildlife Tour

“Wildlife, rafting and chocolate tasting have put Costa Rica’s wildlife tour at the top of my travel list. This tiny country packs a punch and I can’t wait to get there and spot sloths snoozing in the trees!”
- Hannah, Sustainability Specialist

On a Costa Rica wildlife tour you’ll explore the biodiversity of this vibrant destination in more ways than one. Whitewater raft the lush Pacuare River, with steep canyons looming on either side. Navigate the narrow jungle waterways of Tortuguero National Park by boat, spotting heron, kingfisher and stork along the way. You’ll also enjoy a night walk of Selva Verde Rainforest, keeping watch for snake and tarantula.

Namibia Lodge Safari

“Initially it’s the vast desert landscapes and the feeling of space that’s so memorable, followed by the magnitude of the massive sand dunes in Sossusvlei. But, of course, there’s no forgetting the home of the Big Five and the Cheetah Conservation Foundation.”
- Sarah, Customer Service Consultant

Crossing contrasting landscapes - from sand dunes to colonial towns - a Namibia Lodge Safari is a fantastic choice for the wild at heart. Spend time in the oldest desert on earth, embark on unforgettable game drives in multiple national parks, and watch countless fur seals bask in the sunshine at Cape Cross Seal Colony.

Classic Egypt with Nile Cruise

“I’m a huge history buff so Classic Egypt ticked so many boxes for me. The markets in Cairo were so different from other souks I’ve been to. Our leader recommended we find some goodies to give to the kids we were going to spend dinner with in Aswan, and the stall owners were really friendly and had some hilarious recommendations! ”
- Amy, Performance Marketing Executive

Experience an all-encompassing Egypt adventure, exploring everything from the pyramids and temples in Cairo, to the serene waterways of the Nile River. In between exploring the heart of Cairo and hopping on a sleeper train to Aswan, you’ll spend time in a traditional Nubian village, enjoying a home-cooked dinner with a local family.

Trekking in Spain – Picos de Europa

“The reviews speak for themselves – a chance to explore a beautiful and undiscovered corner of Europe, with specular alpine scenery, staying in a small rural Spanish village accompanied by a fantastic local tour leader who knows this unique environment inside out!”
- Vicky, Europe Product Manager

While scenic hiking is top of the agenda on a Spain Trekking tour, you’ll also enjoy other experiences across Sotres. Explore the mediaeval town of Potes, complete with quaint cobbled streets and charming stone bridges. Take a cable car to the Picos plateaux and be greeted by sweeping views over the national park. Throughout the week you’ll also enjoy home cooked meals in a cosy family-run hotel.

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