What’ll it be? Black risotto made with squid ink? Grilled sardines with garlic and lemon? Lamb and potatoes “under the bell”? This introductory tour of Croatia allows you to sample its local delicacies as well get a taste of the country’s greatest attributes. Modern coastal cities, magnificent medieval towns, and breathtaking natural wonders await at every turn. Get your fill of the lively cobblestone squares in the capital city of Zagreb, the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace in the seaside city of Split, the walled beauty of baroque Dubrovnik, and the magical waterfalls of Krka National Park. Walking tours of Ston, famous for its oyster farms, and Konavle, known for its lush vineyards, are also on the menu of this tasty tour of Croatia. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Dubrovnik so you can plan your day your way.

Deep-blue fjords, breathtaking mountains, glimmering glaciers, and flowing waterfalls… these are natural wonders you expect to see in Norway, and on this Norway tour, you’ll experience all of this and more. A highlight of this Norway tour is a breathtaking ride on the Flåm railway, one of the world’s most scenic train rides, which passes through 20 tunnels and climbs to an elevation of 2,833 feet (864 meters). Marvel at the hypnotic waterfalls cascading down the side of steep, snowcapped mountains, rivers winding through deep gorges; farms on the side of steep slopes, and views of Sognefjord, Norway’s longest fjord. Travel on the Hardanger National Tourist Road, carefully developed to take you through some of Norway’s most stunning scenery, and stop at Steinsdalsfossen waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascading falls without getting wet. In addition to breathtaking scenery, Norway also offers you a country steeped in history. In the Middle Ages, Norwegians built churches out of wood. Only 28 of these stave churches now remain in Norway, and in Borgund, you’ll admire one of Norway’s best-preserved stave churches dating back to 1180. Stay two nights in Bergen, founded in 1070, where guided sightseeing features the main sights and a walking tour of Bryggen. From the magnificent scenery to the vibrant cities—including Oslo—this tour through Norway will delight all of your senses. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Bergen so you can plan your day your way.

That calendar you live by—the one with 365 days divided into 12 months—you can thank the ancient Egyptians for the handy invention that helps you manage your time. In this 9-day vacation, you’ll marvel at many other amazing accomplishments of this remarkable civilization. The daunting Great Pyramids, the enigmatic Sphinx and the extraordinary temples of Luxor and Karnak are well worth the journey as are the sparkling treasures inside Cairo’s Grand Egyptian Museum, including the fascinating burial items from the opulent tomb of “King Tut.” As you sail down the legendary Nile from Luxor to Aswan on this enthralling tour of Egypt, you’ll also stand in awe at the Kom Ombo Temple, barter for goods at the bustling bazaars, and sway to the rhythmic drums on a relaxing felucca ride down the Nile.

What’s the best way to see one of the world’s great melting pots? A Globus Independent vacation, of course! Your guide will show you all the highlights taking you to visit the Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown, and Marina Bay, where you ascend to Sands Skypark to admire beautiful views of the city and its surroundings. The following day you’ll have some well-deserved free time to continue exploring Singapore on your own or book an optional excursion to Kampong Glam or a Malay village. Then, fly to Bali, a magical blend of culture, nature, cuisine, and sun. Visit fascinating villages in the hillside town of Ubud. Take in beautiful views of Mount Batur, Bali’s second highest volcano. Enjoy free time in the coastal town of Sanur.

Although you might be enthralled with the idea of the Spanish siesta—the customary post-lunch nap to escape the midday heat—you’ll want to think twice about catching any afternoon Zzzs on this dreamy introductory tour of Spain. Otherwise, you’d miss all the sunny sights this 9-day vacation to Spain has in store. From Madrid’s art-filled Prado Museum to Barcelona’s tree-lined La Rambla, we show you the country’s top must-see sights, indulging in pans of zesty paella, and pitchers of tangy sangria along the way. While you’ll treat yourself to the fresh catches from the sea, the olives from the hills, and the wine from the lush river valleys; it’s sights such as Granada’s opulent Alhambra complex, Seville’s over-the-top Plaza de España, and Barcelona’s unparalleled Sagrada Familia Basilica that are a feast for the eyes. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Seville so you can plan your day your way.

Looking for a vacation to Greece that includes sightseeing, sailing, learning, lounging, discovering, and dancing? Eureka, this is it! Just as the Greek mathematician Archimedes shouted this exclamation after his great discovery, so will you as you float through the ancient ruins of Athens and then set sail for a 4-night Aegean Sea cruise to the historic coast of Turkey and the sunny Greek Isles. In between poolside chilling, you’ll discover the hottest sights of the Greek Islands—the towering windmills of Mykonos, the fortress-lined Old Town of Rhodes, Crete’s Bronze Age settlement of Knossos, and Santorini’s serene whitewashed and blue-roofed villages. Get ready for ruins and resorts, baklava and beaches, and ouzo and oodles of fun on this relaxing land and cruise tour of gorgeous Greece.

When you hear the call “Txotx!” (pronounced “choach”) shouted in the traditional Sidrerias of Northern Spain, it’s time to gather ’round! Standing five feet back from the tapped barrel, patrons line up to catch the shooting cider into glasses—then toast the age-old tradition that adds the right amount of carbonation to the tart beverage. Lucky for you, there’s much to toast as you explore the sparkling seaside from Lisbon to Barcelona on this mostly coastal tour of Portugal and Northern Spain. This sunny vacation makes a splash with visits to the popular pilgrimage site of Santiago de Compostela, the famous seaside resort of San Sebastian, and in Pamplona, the legendary Calle Estafeta where the famous “running of the bulls” takes place. You’ll also want to make a beeline to the delicacies of each country, from the zesty paella of Spain to the sweet port of Portugal. Cheers! Salud! Txotx! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Porto so you can plan your day your way.

Upon visiting Australia, Oprah Winfrey remarked to the locals in Sydney, “You’re so darned friendly, you must go to friendly class!” But you don’t need to be a celebrity to get the star treatment and warm welcome of Aussies. Experience the meaning of “G’day, mate!” on this 10-day Globus Independent Australia vacation. We’ve arranged your hotel reservations, daily breakfast, sightseeing, and private transfers to/from the airports from/to your hotels for your intra-vacation flights. Plus, a one-of-a-kind feature: the Globus Local Host®, someone who is available throughout your stay (in Sydney, Cairns, and Melbourne) to ensure your vacation runs smoothly and to help you make the most of your vacation. This Globus Independent tour packs plenty of free time to explore, relax, and discover on your own. Your vacation begins the moment you arrive. Globus can pick you up at the airport and whisk you seamlessly to your selected hotel. Your Local Host will greet you with a smile and information to help you get settled. The next day, after your included breakfast, we’ll pick you up at your hotel for a guided sightseeing tour with a local expert. You’ll hear inside stories behind the must-see sights, like the Opera House and Bondi Beach. And never fear...we’ve scouted the city for the best place to capture a photo of Sydney’s famous Harbour Bridge. In Melbourne, your guided sightseeing with an expert Local Guide includes the Royal Botanic Gardens and Queen Victoria Market. On the third day in each city, you have a free day to explore on your own (with your Local Host support, of course). You may want to follow in Oprah’s footsteps in Sydney and climb to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge; explore the cobblestone streets of the Rocks, the harborside area where the first convicts settled; or participate in a game of lawn bowling. In Melbourne, you can visit one of Australia's leading opal companies or take an excursion to see the little penguins emerge from the sea and waddle across the beach in the world-famous Penguin Parade. It's not just the big cities you'll experience on this Australia vacation. In Cairns, we’ll take you to the Outer Great Barrier, where you can snorkel, take a semi-submersible watercraft tour, or attend a presentation by a marine biologist. You'll be amazed by the clarity of the water and the variety of fish that will swim all around you. You may even see a green sea turtle glide by! You will also have a day at leisure so perhaps take an excursion via the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the quiet mountain village of Kuranda or explore one of the markets to try locally grown mangoes and bananas. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time to enjoy optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

Isn’t it time you nipped monotony in the bud? From fields of yellow sunflowers to cellars of pink rosés, this fascinating tour of France invites you to survey the sensuous land and pick the perfect bouquet. Fragrant gardens and aromatic wines are just the beginning of the sweet experiences that await from the City of Light to the sunlit regions of Normandy and the Loire Valley. Tiptoe through the tulips at Claude Monet’s rainbow-colored gardens, float down the castle hallways in dreamy Châteaux country, and swirl and sip your way from the lively cafés of Paris to the storied wineries of the French countryside. Traveling from the Seine to the sea, we’ve handpicked the best coastal experiences—the resort town of Deauville, the famous Abbey of Mont St. Michel, and the poignant beaches of Normandy, site of the Allied Forces’ D-Day invasions during World War II. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Paris so you can plan your day your way.

Warm winter wishes abound in the holiday atmosphere and abundant Christmas markets of Montréal and Québec City. Discover a winter wonderland of French cultural delights, sights, and bites to warm the heart and inspire the imagination. From Montréal’s Basilique Notre-Dame to Jean-Talon Market, Grand Marché de Noël de Montréal (Great Christmas Market), and Montréal Christmas Village, you’ll feel a cheerful glow around each corner. In Québec, explore Canada’s only walled city where the Place d’Armes, Laval Seminary, and ancient Place Royale. Stroll the narrow streets amid old-world houses by the St. Lawrence River and indulge in a traditional sugar shack lunch in the old tradition. Dive into the natural beauty of Montmorency Falls Park and feel the holiday spirit in markets brimming with holiday cheer and European-style outdoor market shopping as winter warms the heart on this wintertime vacation in Montréal and Québec!

Even if you’re not keen to try bubble and squeak, haggis and tatties, or cockles and laverbread, this perfect sampling of England, Scotland, and Wales will surely whet your appetite for adventure! Our most popular tour of Britain, this tri-country introductory vacation has something for everyone. History buffs will treasure prehistoric Stonehenge, the Roman ruins of Bath and the medieval cities and towns such as York and Ludlow. Music lovers will cherish the music-festival town of Llangollen and The Beatles’ home city of Liverpool. Literary fans will relish the countryside homes of William Shakespeare and Sir Walter Scott. And beer and whisky connoisseurs will delight in the dimly lit pubs from London to Edinburgh and back where if you just can’t bring yourself to taste the black pudding, there’s always delicious fish and chips!

Like a Lazy Susan generously plated with cured herring, breaded schnitzel, rich fondue, and beef bourguignon, this aptly named European Sampler invites you to sink your teeth into four delectable countries and cultures. Designed to introduce you to the best of Holland, Germany, Switzerland, and France, this 9-day tour of Europe is an awakening for more than just your taste buds. All of your senses will perk up as you leisurely cruise along Amsterdam’s bridge-covered canals, dreamily float down the romantic Rhine, and journey through Germany’s picturesque Black Forest, Burgundy’s rolling green vineyards, and the white-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps. Along the way, you can expect a heaped helping of cities and villages, castles and palaces, and hand-carved cuckoo clocks to enhance your time in the most remarkable regions of Europe. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Beaune so you can plan your day your way.

The over-the-top homes. The complicated relationships. The relentless quest for power. Ruling Austria—and later the Austro-Hungarian Empire—for nearly 650 years, the Habsburgs formed one of history’s greatest, yet often overlooked, European dynasties. This fascinating tour of Central Europe traces the family’s steps—and missteps—as you enjoy the imperial sights of Prague, Budapest, and Vienna with additional overnights in melodious Salzburg and lively Munich. Ornate castles and cathedrals, stunning palaces and parks, and gorgeous gardens and grounds provide a glimpse into the intriguing lives and lavish lifestyles of one of history’s most powerful and controversial families. In-depth sightseeing and a cruise along the legendary Danube offer varied vantage points to witness the magnificent marks this royal family left on Central Europe. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Budapest so you can plan your day your way.

Like a rhapsody that enchants the dreams of composers, artists, writers, and romantics, this European escorted tour from Budapest to Prague promises to bring out the Bohemian in you. Hear the bells resound above Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, and Prague; see the cathedral skies and castles rise; taste the tempting foodie delights and spectacular sights of Budapest and feel the charm of Slovakia. Wrap your senses in the stunning beauty of Vienna to the Golden City of Prague on this artful 9-day European vacation that’s nothing short of captivating. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Prague so you can plan your day your way.

Eclectic temples and imposing forts. Pristine wildlife refuges and lively metropolises. Pink cities and golden triangles. Fairytale monuments and tantalizing cuisine. There’s no better introduction to India than this incredible Globus Independent tour. In the capital city of Delhi, enjoy a rickshaw ride through the famed Chandni Chowk bazaar—a market that’s been around for more than three centuries. Spend time here shopping for exotic spices, gold, fabrics, and a host of trinkets and souvenirs. You’ll also visit Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, the largest Sikh house of worship in Delhi; and explore the lavish, 16th-century garden-tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun (a precursor to the Taj Mahal). Southeast in Agra, be sure your camera is in hand for phenomenal photo opportunities on your private guided sightseeing tour that begins with a truly unforgettable sunrise visit to the incomparable Taj Mahal. Then, visit the ancient red sandstone Agra Fort, which guarded the imperial city of the Moghul rulers. In the “Pink City” of Jaipur, your private sightseeing takes you to the amazing Amber Fort with the glittering walls and ceilings in the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), the City Palace, and the fascinating bigger-than-life Jantar Mantar astronomical observatories. Next, you’ll travel to fascinating Kathmandu, Nepal. Enjoy guided sightseeing in Nepal’s iconic capital city, including a visit to the historic seat of royalty at Hanuman Dhoka. Visit the residence of the Living Goddess at Temple of Kumari, and travel to Bouddhanath—one of the world’s largest stupas and the center of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. Marvel at the Hindu and Buddhist sites in Patan’s Durbar Square. Enjoy free time and optional excursions to experience these fascinating destinations in your own way.

It may take two to Tango, but it only takes you to choreograph the perfect day on a Globus Independent tour in Brazil. Walk in wonder on the wild side in the breathtaking Brazilian Amazon. Touch down in Manaus, gateway to Brazil's Amazon, for a private, guided sightseeing tour with a local expert to envision the rubber boom days. Witness the “Meeting of the Waters” where the chocolate-hued Rio Negro flows side by side with the amber Rio Solimões. Enjoy Naturalist-guided walks to see flora and fauna and spend time with a Caboclo local to discover timeless traditions of life in the rainforest. Next, see how Rio de Janeiro sizzles with Brazilian barbecue, beaches, and bustling nightlife, bringing you a little closer to heaven atop Corcovado Mountain where the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue stands watch. With the freedom to design your days and fill your nights with Latin flair that ignites your independent spirit, you’ll be swaying to the samba in no time! Go chasing waterfalls in Iguassu National Park, where thunderous cascades plummet 300 feet into Devil’s Throat Canyon. Cross over to Argentina and board the Ecological Jungle Train and explore numerous walkways above and beneath the falls. With the expertise of Local Guides and extra free time you crave, you’ll find the perfect steps to dance to your own rhythm through Brazil’s breathtaking beauty. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

Blue skies—nothin’ but blue skies. Oh, and blue roofs, blue windows, and the bluest sea you will ever see. “Blue” days simply take on a different meaning in the sunny Cyclades. Here, witnessing the striking contrast of whitewashed walls cascading toward the deep azure sea stirs feelings of pure joy. On this tour of Athens and the Greek Isles, you will explore the ancient city of gold, silver, and bronze before setting sail for the iconic blue and white islands of Santorini and Mykonos. Three nights on each allows for guided sightseeing plus plenty of time to enjoy the scenery—and the scene—as you please. Enjoy Santorini’s picture-perfect vistas, and join the “who’s who” of celebrities, yachties, and foodies indulging in the extraordinary beaches, chic boutiques, waterfront cafes, and heart-pumping nightlife of magical Mykonos.

It may come as a surprise that the beloved Irish tune “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling” was written by a trio of American songwriters. That’s the moving influence of this enchanting and captivating land. So, when are Irish eyes smiling? At every moment on this undiscovered tour of Ireland – as you stroll down the lively streets of Dublin, sip Guinness in a boisterous pub on the Dingle Peninsula, take a horse-drawn jaunting-car ride through the Killarney countryside, and even bake scones on a quaint Irish sheep farm near Galway. By way of the most dramatic coastal and pastoral scenery, this tour of Ireland leads you to the lesser-known gems of the Emerald Isle as well as the cliffs, castles, and famous crystal you’ve long heard of. As you hum along the winding Ring of Kerry and the rocky Aran Islands, this tour of Ireland “will steal your heart away.” PLUS, your tour includes our choice of excursions in Waterford so you can plan the day your way.

Deep-blue fjords, breathtaking mountains, glimmering glaciers, and flowing waterfalls… these are natural wonders you expect to see in Norway, and on this Norway tour, you’ll experience all of this and more. A highlight of this Norway tour is a breathtaking ride on the Flåm railway, one of the world’s most scenic train rides, which passes through 20 tunnels and climbs to an elevation of 2,833 feet (864 meters). Marvel at the hypnotic waterfalls cascading down the side of steep, snowcapped mountains, rivers winding through deep gorges; farms on the side of steep slopes, and views of Sognefjord, Norway’s longest fjord. Travel on the Hardanger National Tourist Road, carefully developed to take you through some of Norway’s most stunning scenery, and stop at Steinsdalsfossen waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascading falls without getting wet. In addition to breathtaking scenery, Norway also offers you a country steeped in history. In the Middle Ages, Norwegians built churches out of wood. Only 28 of these stave churches now remain in Norway, and in Borgund, you’ll admire one of Norway’s best-preserved stave churches dating back to 1180. Stay two nights in Bergen, founded in 1070, where guided sightseeing features the main sights and a walking tour of Bryggen. From the magnificent scenery to the vibrant cities—including a train ride back to Oslo and an extra night—this tour through Norway will delight all of your senses. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Bergen so you can plan your day your way.

“Thailand” translates to “land of the free” and we think it’s about time that you free yourself from the typical to explore this fascinating destination with the free time you crave on a Globus Independent tour. Start your exploration with a boat ride through Bangkok’s canals, or klongs, to see family homes and temples—you’ll quickly see why they call this city “Venice of the East.” Next, visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn, and the Grand Palace, which houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Lastly, stop at the Temple of the Reclining Buddha, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Bangkok, featuring one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. You’ll also have free time to explore more of Bangkok and other nearby attractions including Damnoen Saduak floating market and the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. In Chiang Rai, travel to the “Golden Triangle” where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, tour a local tea plantation, and explore Wat Rong Khun. You’ll also visit several interesting hill tribes and learn about their culture. In Chiang Mai, explore the most popular temples and visit an amazing elephant sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts of orphaned and rescued elephants.

Don’t think you can see the top sights of Britain and Ireland in 10 days? Sharpen your pencils to cross off your bucket-list destinations in five fabulous countries. A jolly good time awaits in England, Scotland, and Wales, plus both territories of Ireland, as you explore the lively capital cities of each and the thatched-roof-dotted countryside in between. Coast through rolling hills, ferry across legendary waterways, and skip down cobblestone streets to discover the wonders of Stonehenge, Waterford, York, and more on this essential tour of Britain and Ireland. Along the way, you’ll drink in the sights of fairytale castles and storybook settings as well as the locally brewed ales, strong Irish coffees, and perfectly aged Scotch whiskies passionately poured in every pub. Factor in time to shop for bits and bobs and taste local favorites like fish and chips, and you’d be off your trolley not to come along! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Waterford so you can plan your day your way.

Artists, writers, and poets have long been inspired by the hues of hot pinks, deep purples, and flaming oranges that dance daily across the mystical southwestern sky. For one magical week in October, hundreds of hot air balloons take flight and turn the already stunning atmosphere into a kaleidoscope of dizzying color. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta may be the largest balloon event in the world, yet its Mass Ascension, fiery Balloon Glow, evening fireworks, and other beloved rituals aren’t the only highlights on this vibrant New Mexico vacation. Visits to artsy Santa Fe, and the Miracle Stairway are equally uplifting. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Santa Fe so you can plan your day your way.

From the seemingly miraculous waters of the Dead Sea to Cana of Galilee where Jesus is said to have performed his first miracle of turning water into wine—this fascinating tour of Israel is full of incredible sights, scenery, and stories. The historical and biblical tales begin in Tel Aviv, the “Mediterranean Manhattan,” continue to the Mount of Beatitudes where it is believed Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount and culminate at the lowest (yet most uplifting) point on the surface of the Earth—the Dead Sea where you’ll effortlessly float at 430 meters below sea level. Discover the fascinating city of Jerusalem and dive into numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites—including the golden-domed Baha’i Shrine in Haifa and the ancient clifftop fortress of Masada—not to mention some of the most delectable dishes of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Small groups translate to great experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour. Designed from the ground up for a maximum of 18 guests in Europe, this Small Group Discovery tour has everything you need to explore with up-close-and-exclusive experiences that go beyond traditional tours. Discover fascinating history and spectacular sights of Yerevan, Armenia, with exciting excursions to the ancient citadels, cathedrals, and cities to learn about the vast history, culture, and traditions of this extraordinary country of kings, queens, and conquests through time. Revel in beautiful customs and cuisine throughout your travels—from local wines made with generations of tradition to lavish cathedrals still standing as sentinels of faith, to welcoming people who invite you into their homes for the pleasures of life in this beautiful part of the world. Your Small Group Discovery tour continues to Georgia to discover even more beauty and boundless historical treasures. Here, the history of dreamers and dictators; poets and artists; winemakers and warriors, and the ever-faithful religious legends come to life amid natural wonders and ancient cobblestoned lanes. An adventure in beauty and bold history awaits with up-close experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour!

Variety is the spice of life—and of every great vacation. In addition to the ports, sherries, and sangrias for which Spain and Portugal are famous, this tour of the Iberian Peninsula adds the tantalizing taste of Morocco to your rich itinerary. Following the scent of fresh mint, ginger, and turmeric through the narrow streets of Tangier—and the scenic winding roads to the dramatic views of Cap Spartel—adds just the right kick to your tasty tour of Spain and Portugal. Beyond Portugal’s lively Lisbon, the pilgrimage site of Fátima, and the cork farms of Azaria, we pop open the fun in Spain with visits to artsy Madrid, ancient Seville, storied Granada, medieval Toledo, and the famous Costa del Sol where you’ll have a full day at leisure for your choice of sunbathing, boutique browsing, people watching, or all of the above. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.