Like a classic Irish coffee made with hot java, Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and fresh whipped cream, this introductory tour of Ireland blends the most stimulating sights, soothing scenery, and sweet accents of the Emerald Isle. Journeying on a loop from Dublin to the west coast and back, first-time visitors will be awakened by the revelry of the lively capital city, jolted by the dramatic scenery along the storied coast, and calmed by the verdant rolling hills throughout the lush green countryside. Don’t be surprised if you’re suddenly inspired to craft limericks as you try your hand at baking scones on an Irish sheep farm in Galway. With authentic local experiences and visits to the sights you’ve always dreamed of—including the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the spectacular Ring of Kerry, and the famous House of Waterford Crystal—this tour of Ireland is the perfect break from the daily grind. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Waterford so you can plan your day your way.

Like the blue Azulejo-tiled walls on Portugal’s beautiful buildings, homes, and churches, we’ve pieced together the best experiences of two sun-washed countries for those looking for an enlightening getaway. On this 9-day tour of Spain and Portugal, you’ll spend two nights each in four legendary cities spanning from the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea to the golden coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Barcelona’s distinctive architecture, Madrid’s artistic energy, Seville’s medieval past, and Lisbon’s tiled and cobbled charm await your arrival and exploration. With immersive sightseeing, you’ll dive into the history, culture, and cuisine of each city during the must-see, must-taste, and must-hear experiences, from Portugal’s sweet red port and mournful fado music to Spain’s dry Rioja wine and lively flamenco performances. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.

“Thailand” translates to “land of the free” and this Globus Independent tour of Thailand means you’re free to explore its breathtaking beauty as you please. Start your adventure in Thailand with a boat ride through Bangkok’s canals, or klongs, to see family homes and temples and you’ll discover why this beautiful city is called the “Venice of the East.” Visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn, and the Grand Palace, which houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, then 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. Then fly to Chiang Mai, where you’ll explore temples and visit an amazing elephant sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts of orphaned and rescued elephants. End your stay in Thailand with a three-night stay at a beachfront resort in Phuket. Explore the area at your leisure or simply relax at the beach!

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.

What’s the best way to see two of the most effervescent cities in the world? A Globus Independent vacation, of course! Start your adventure in Bangkok with a boat ride through the city’s canals, or klongs, to see family homes and temples and you’ll discover why this beautiful city is called the “Venice of the East.” Visit Wat Arun, also known as the Temple of the Dawn, and the Grand Palace, which houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, then 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. Then fly to Singapore, one of the world’s greatest melting pots. 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.

Rolling hills and rugged coastlines, mythical creatures, and elusive monsters, quiet fairways, and boisterous bagpipes, this tour of Scotland is a study in stark contrasts among the most beautiful of classrooms. Hitting the highpoints of the Highlands from Glasgow to Edinburgh, you’ll cruise on beautiful Loch Lomond, ferry to the dramatic Isle of Skye, and visit the home of golf, St. Andrews. More lush landscapes await as you search for the mysterious Nessie along the banks of Loch Ness, stand before the famous Glenfinnan viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films, and swoon over the 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle nestled on a tidal island and featured in numerous films. If green means go, you have the go-ahead to pack your tams, tartans, and knickers for vibrant and verdant Scotland.

Dubai’s unique attractions, including the world’s tallest building, largest shopping mall, and only 7-star hotel, lure millions of visitors each year. Now, it’s your turn to uncover this glamorous oasis with the free time you deserve! This Globus Independent tour takes you to see the most popular sights and handles all the details during your stay, including the freedom to explore on your own. Your private guided tour includes the vibrant markets, or souks, including the spice souk and gold souk. You’ll stroll through the historic Bastakiya Quarter, weaving through the narrow lanes. You’ll gain insight to Emirati culture over lunch and even ascend to the 124th floor at Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, for spectacular views. End your vacation with 2 days in Abu Dhabi. Your private guided tour includes the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and Al Ain, a dreamy respite from city life. Consider an exciting desert safari or simply explore the exciting lanes and alleys. With so much to discover, the choices are endless!

There’s a whole lotta shakin’ going on when you embark on this boot scootin’ tour of two of the country’s most melodious cities. Follow the tunes through Tennessee to the music-producing meccas of Nashville and Memphis for the sights and sounds that defined country, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll. High notes in Nashville include a guided tour of the historic Ryman Auditorium, reserved seats at the Grand Ole Opry, a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame, and lesson in sustainability with Strings for Hope. In the home of the blues and birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll, you’ll tap your toes around the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, Elvis Presley’s Graceland estate, and Sun Studios, the famous recording studio that launched the careers of Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and countless other crooners. Sublime harmonies and southern hospitality await in both cities as you bebop down Broadway and Beale Streets on this marvelous musical heritage tour. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Memphis 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 larger-than-life Jantar Mantar astronomical observatories. Enjoy free time and optional excursions to experience this fascinating destination in your own way.

Famous for creating the Olympic Games, inventing theatrical arts, and founding democracy, the industrious and innovative Greeks have also been known to vote for the art of doing nothing at all. On this tour of historic Athens, coastal Turkey, and the sunbaked Greek Isles, you’ll witness the feats of great architects, cross the same finish lines as legendary athletes, walk in the footsteps of famous philosophers, and then completely clear your mind on a relaxing 3-night Aegean Sea cruise. Lounge, laze, and learn the national sirtaki dance as you set sail for the most intriguing Greek islands, from the jet-set-approved Mykonos to the pilgrimage popular Patmos to wonder-filled Crete, the cradle of Minoan civilization. Ruins, resorts, rich history, and total relaxation are all on the itinerary on this breezy land and cruise tour of Greece.

Livin’ la Pura Vida! This philosophy of the pure life in Costa Rica is also a common greeting you’ll hear on your Globus Independent tour. From the mind-blowing lava trails and soul-soothing thermal springs of the Arenal Volcano region to the lush tropical forests in the clouds of Monteverde, you’ll encounter pure nature of Costa Rica’s rich and resplendent flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. Explore Tortuguero National Park to navigate the pristine waterways where turtles nest amid nature at its best. Put your head in the clouds in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, home to over 3,000 plant species, some 120 mammal species, 400 bird species, and 1,200 amphibian and reptile species. Land in Guanacaste to laze and gaze upon the beautiful beaches of the North Pacific. Add a dose of free time to immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture and cuisine in San José, and you’re living your best life, indeed! Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

If your independent spirit is filling your dreams with new heights in adventure, just point your compass south to soar higher in the Andes and the heart of Peru. This Globus Independent tour in South America takes you to the legendary sites in Lima, Cusco, and magnificent Machu Picchu – the “Lost City of the Incas.” Board a train to ascend to this treasured site, with the opportunity to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu. Explore a wealth of ancient ruins throughout the Sacred Valley and Cusco that defy explanation and encounter the captivating cultures that live on in the Sacred Valley. Timeless temples, textiles, and tantalizing dishes are all on the menu on this free-spirited sojourn in Peru. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

Craving adventure that speaks to your independent spirit? From the rhythm of the samba to the rumble in the jungle, this Globus Independent tour in Rio de Janeiro and the Brazilian Amazon is a step in the right direction. And, while it takes two to Tango, it only takes you to choreograph the perfect way to spend your day with the free time you crave. Start the fun with a trip to the wilds of the 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. Stand at the “Meeting of the Waters” where the chocolate-hued Rio Negro flows side by side with the amber Rio Solimões. Take Naturalist-guided walks and visit with native Caboclos in the breathtaking Brazilian Amazon. Next, discover how Rio sizzles with Brazilian barbecue, beaches, and bustling nightlife, and a breathtaking view atop Corcovado Mountain where the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue stands watch. With the freedom to fill your free time with Latin flair and adventure, you’ll be swaying to the samba in no time! Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

Explore hidden cobblestone streets, watch the world go by from a sidewalk cafe, sail across beautiful blue waters and delight at the local specialties on this incomparable Italian vacation. If you’ve envisioned it, you’ll see it, hear it, experience it, and taste it on this scenic and scintillating tour of Italy—from the historic Colosseum of Rome to the song-filled canals of Venice, the quiet back alleys of Assisi to the bold storefronts of Milan, and the sweet views of Lake Como to the bittersweet Aperol liqueur of Padua. Warm locals welcome you in each ancient city, medieval village, and indulgent resort, sharing with youth stories behind the architecture, the tales behind the sculptures, the meaning behind the brushstrokes, and if you’re lucky, the secret ingredients on your plate! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Venice so you can plan your day your way.

Calling all adventurous spirits to embark on an odyssey and discover breathtaking sights and ancient legends. Begin where it all began, the ancient city of Athens where the Panathenaic Stadium and the Acropolis proudly preside and where the spirit of athletes and gods, philosophers and poets still fill the air with legendary tales. Set sights on the sea with visits to the islands of Crete, Naxos, and Paros to unveil the mysteries, myths, and marvelous history that awaits you, along with idyllic villages, pristine shores and so much more! You’ll find plenty of island time to wine, dine, and dream in sidewalk cafés and tavernas, creating a few legendary memories of your own.

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.

Pack your swimsuit and sunscreen before heading down under for this dream vacation! Come see the vibrant and diverse marine life that lives within the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and experience Sydney’s iconic sites. On this 9-day Globus Independent vacation in Australia. We’ve arranged hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, and sightseeing to make your vacation as turn-key as can be. Plus, we provide you with a Local Host, someone who knows the cities you’ll visit like the back of their hand, so they can help you get an authentic Australian experience. This Globus Independent tour packs plenty of free time to explore, relax, and discover on your own. Your vacation begins when you arrive in Cairns. You will have three days to discover the boutiques, art galleries, and many activities that make this town a bucket-list destination. Enjoy the experience of a lifetime when you cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef for a day to snorkel, take a semi-submersible watercraft tour, or attend a presentation by a marine biologist. And Cairns isn’t just known for its aquatic life! You can also choose to hike, ride ATVs, or learn about the Aboriginal people who inhabited the nearby Mossman Gorge. Then, you’ll head south to spend a few days in Sydney. Take a guided sightseeing tour where you will stop to capture the perfect shot at the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge and put your toes in the sand at the beautiful Bondi Beach. You will have two full days at your leisure. Explore independently or choose from a selection of optional activities, including a climb to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, spending the day in nearby Hunter Valley where you will sample Australia’s finest wines, or joining a guided backstage tour of the Opera House. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time to enjoy optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

Tiptoe through the tulips, tread through famous battlegrounds, and sprint to the irresistible bonbons on this aromatic tour. Three nights in Amsterdam, two nights each in Luxembourg and Brussels, plus one night in the medieval town of Bruges is the perfect introduction to the sights and delights of the Benelux countries. Springtime departures include the exploding kaleidoscope of Holland’s famous bulb fields and the extraordinary Keukenhof Gardens, while summer and fall departures lead you to the bold tastes of barley and hops at the Heineken Experience where you’ll hear—and sample—the tradition of the world-famous beer. With intricate canals flowing as freely as the lager from lively Amsterdam to perfectly preserved Bruges, get ready to float up to some of Europe’s most impressive museums, markets, palaces, cathedrals—and confectionaries! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Luxembourg so you can plan your day your way.

Although Italy is full of wondrous gems across “the boot,” some of its greatest treasures are hidden closer to its heel. In the Apulia region, known for its centuries-old farmland, whitewashed towns, and miles of scenic coastline, the water is bluer, the produce is fresher, and the pace is delightfully slower. This Undiscovered tour of Southern Italy invites you to kick back and live la dolce vita as you travel from heel to ankle, vineyard to grove, and clifftop to cave. From colorful Naples to the stunning 90-million-year-old caves of Castellana, you will experience Southern Italy’s hottest sights—and coolest. At a special wine tasting at the Manduria wine museum, you’ll raise your glass to the many highlights of “the heel,” including its castles and conical houses, ancient ruins and fresh ricotta, and its eternal sunshine and sunny disposition. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Naples so you can plan your day your way.

This Globus Independent tour begins in Panama City. Here, on the isthmus linking Central and South America, you’ll explore the colonial-style architecture of Casco Antiguo and hear the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruise in the waters of the Panama Canal to follow in the historic wake of some 14,000 ships that traverse the engineering marvel each year. Venture into Gamboa Rainforest Resort in the heart of Soberania National Park. Cruise up the Chagres River in a dugout canoe to visit an Emberá Indian Village where ancient dances, mystical ceremonies, and medicinal plants are a way of life. Take some free time in Gamboa to fish, birdwatch, or kick back at the pool or spa. Follow your independent spirit even further on the Pacific Coast of Panama to enjoy resort life between the lush tropical forests and white sand beaches. Take some free time for yourself to kayak, raft, surf, or dive! Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

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.

When my baby smiles at me, I go to Rio! You’ll be smiling from ear to ear on this Globus Independent vacation in Brazil and Argentina with plenty of free time in Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires. And while it takes two to Tango, it only takes you to choreograph the perfect vacation in South America. From Brazilian barbecue to bathing beauties on the beaches of Rio, to the heights of Christ the Redeemer, and the roaring thunder of Iguassu Falls, a Globus Independent tour gives you the freedom to design your days and fill your nights with Latin flair. Your Local Guide is on hand with included sightseeing, while helping you make the most of your free time with optional excursions to spice things up with your own personal taste. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

Buenos Aires is bursting at the seams with bold buildings, European energy, and bustling boulevards on this Globus Independent South American tour. Walk down the world’s widest avenue where the Colon Theater and Plaza de Mayo burst onto the scene. From the exciting enclave of La Boca to the old district of San Telmo, you can shop ‘til you drop and dine on the deliciousness of dozens of local cafes. Linger in the legendary Recoleta Cemetery—final resting place of Argentina’s famous First Lady, Evita Perón. You’ll also be treated to a lively Tango show in the passionate style of Argentine culture. Spend some free time on the Tigre River or taking a turn at making your own empanadas. Horse around with gauchos on an Argentinian estancia where ranch life is alive and kicking. Go chasing waterfalls in Iguassu National Park, where thunderous cascades plummet 300 feet into Devil’s Throat Canyon. Finally, head to a heavenly sight at the top of Rio de Janeiro’s Corcovado Mountain where the Christ the Redeemer opens His arms wide to the Brazilian beaches below. Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

From Turkish treasures to Grecian delights, this tour takes you from the magical monuments and mosques of Istanbul to the mysteries and mythologies of Athens! Your tour of Turkey and Greece begins in the incredible city of Istanbul in a country of two continents. The bold beauty of sacred Byzantine architecture in Istanbul’s mosques and palaces is complemented by the warm people who welcome us to share in the traditions and tastes (think Turkish coffee and Turkish Delight!) in this gateway to the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Embark on your journey to Greece through Turkey’s northwest region of Marmara. Marvel at the archaeological remnants of Kings in Philippi and Vergina. Explore Thessaloniki the cultural capital of Greece with its Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history. Be amazed by the floating monasteries of Meteora, and the heroic tales of Spartan battles on your way to Athens, where history comes to life as you discover the city that was at the heart of Ancient Greece.

What shoes should you pack for walking on sunshine? The pair best suited for 1,000 miles of shoreline and 300 days of sunlit skies per year. With its refreshing Atlantic breezes and live-life-to the-fullest Mediterranean ways, the sun-drenched country of Portugal invites you to dip your toe—and entire body—into a sea of relaxation. This rejuvenating tour of Portugal leads you past rolling olive farms, through scenic cork groves, and down winding Moorish alleyways to the country’s signature delights. In its coastal villages and medieval towns, grilled seafood fills the tables, sweet port fills the glasses, and the soulful sounds of fado music fill the air. From the granules of golden sand to the rich nuggets of history, this enlightening tour of Portugal introduces you to the brightest sights of the country as you make a loop from lively Lisbon and back. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Lisbon so you can plan your day your way.