Get back to the garden with an escape to Costa Rica’s natural paradise. From heart-stirring suspension bridges through rainforest canopies to the lava trails emerging from the depths of the earth. See Arenal Volcano and explore the wild places where pumas and jaguars prowl. Look skyward to spot hundreds of multi-hued birds, butterflies, and a dizzying diversity of wildlife in the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Find your head in the clouds in a primeval forest blessed by trade winds, rain, and fog by day, and unfettered stars above by night. Go where monkeys and macaws make your day with mischief and count yourself charmed to see some of the 160-plus reptile species—from tiny amphibians to titan snakes. Get civilized too, with visits to an artisan village and a tour of Costa Rica’s largest city and cultural capital of San José.

“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. 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!

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. 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. 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!

What could be better than spending eight days in Portugal and Spain? Spending them during the off season when crowds are fewer and travel prices are lower! Begin your European vacation in Lisbon to enjoy guided sightseeing through the Imperial history of the colorful city. In Fátima, hear the story of Our Lady of Fátima at the site where Mary appeared to three shepherd children, then travel to Porto for sightseeing and port-wine tasting. Enjoy a wine tasting at a Salamanca winery and stand before the masterpieces of Goya, El Greco, Rubens, and more, in Madrid’s Prado Museum. Eight days of sumptuous color, cuisine, and culture await you on this guided vacation in Portugal and Spain!

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. Aaaahh, Panama! Treat yourself to a tour that is exclusively yours with free time, me time, and optional adventures that speak to your independent spirit!

It may take two to Tango, but it only takes you to choreograph the perfect day on a Globus Independent tour in Brazil. See how Rio 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 along 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!

“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!

This touching tour of Normandy is ideal for history buffs and World War II aficionados eager to personally explore the sacred sites of Operation Overlord, the codename for the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. On this stirring tour, you’ll see where more than 150,000 mostly American, British, and Canadian troops stormed 50 miles of fiercely defended coastline, securing an Allied victory, and gaining a foothold in the fight against Nazi Germany. Your expert Tour Director will lead you to the many significant sites of that fateful day, including the cliffs scaled by troops at Pointe du Hoc as well as the assault shores of Utah, Juno, and Omaha Beach. You’ll have time to explore the moving memorials and museums of each site, including the emotive American Military Cemetery and Memorial. Start and end this incredible journey in magnificent Paris.

Treasured. Timeless. Tradition. Just a few words to describe the sampling of stunning history to be found on the tour of Turkey. Founded more than 2,500 years ago, the sights of the once Byzantine empire give new meaning to timeless traditions in the capital of Istanbul on the Black Sea and the Mediterranean. Moving sites of battle and heroism remain where stories of bravery and bold characters still echo in legendary style. From the legendary Trojan Horse to the longstanding temples of healing powers in Pergamum, this tour of Turkey’s treasures brings the past to light in shining examples of turbulent history. Peruse the power of the Roman Empire in Ephesus’ massive archaeological sites and ponder the natural wonders of travertine terraces and thermal pools found in Pamukkale. Awaken your curiosity for ancient traditions along the Silk Road amid Bursa’s centuries-old city center and bazaar in the shadow of Mount Olympus—just a few of the revelations to be discovered on this tour of Turkey!

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 begins in Lima with an overnight stay in the City of Kings. Enjoy some free time to take in the colonial architecture of the Spanish conquistadores. Fly to Cusco and head into the Sacred Valley for an overnight stay before boarding the Vistadome train to Aguas Calientes – the foot of the mountain where “The Lost City” is found. Take the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu and see the mile-long aqueduct, holy houses, and remarkable temple ruins. You’ll also explore a wealth of ancient ruins that defy explanation and encounter the captivating cultures that live on in the Sacred Valley and Cusco. 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!

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. 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!

Tantalizing petiscos. Thrilling natural wonders. Timeless traditions. Portugal is calling with a wealth of wonders to amaze and enchant. From Porto to Lisbon, your senses are filled with visions of natural wonder, wonderful wines, tempting tastes, and amazing artistry on this escorted tour of Portugal. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Coimbra so you can plan your day your way.

Leave real life behind in Rio where the samba plays, and days turn into Tango nights with an escape to Brazil and Argentina. From the streets of Carnival to the outstretched arms of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain, the sights and delights of Rio de Janeiro never fail to ignite a passion for life. Walk along Brazil’s bustling city and breathtaking beaches and chase waterfalls beside the thunderous Iguassu Falls—where Argentina and Brazil combine to create some of the world’s largest waterfalls. Ride the rails on a jungle train through the rainforest before flying to Buenos Aires. See the stunning sights, including the tomb of Eva Perón—beloved champion of Argentina’s working class. History turns to Tango with an Argentine steak dinner and performance of the passionate dance.

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. 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!

This tour of Morocco invites you to ‘play it again’ in the dramatic sights of a city forever connected to its namesake film, Casablanca. Discover the cafes of Morocco’s largest city, where modern life meets ancient sights that ignite the imagination. Follow North Africa’s infamous Barbary Coast to Morocco’s capital city of Rabat—once the haven for 16th-century pirates. Discover its massive medieval battlements and the Royal Palace in one of the four Imperial Cities of Morocco. Travel along the Atlantic coastline of North Africa to visit the Caves of Hercules on your way to the dramatic promontory of Cap Spartel on the Strait of Gibraltar which divides the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Journey from the gateway to Africa, Tangier, to explore Tétouan, the “white dove” of the crystal blue Mediterranean and the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen. Marvel at the magic of Fez, considered the heart of Morocco, where legends of philosophers and astronomers still intrigue with a colorful culture bringing Aladdin to mind along its car-free urban alleyways and markets. A magical ride, indeed!

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.

What happens in Vegas may stay in Vegas, but a hearty yell into the canyons of the American Southwest will return with an echo from across the abyss. A night at the slot machines segues into a gauntlet of slot canyons in Zion National Park—a maze of cream, pink, and red sculpted sandstone—and the crimson amphitheaters of Bryce Canyon’s red rock hoodoos and goblins. And what prolific artists were water and wind to create such masterpieces of sand and stone in Arches National Park—with 2,000 red sandstone arches and fins carved among inexplicable balancing rock formations. As the earth below your feet retreats further from the sun, a night sky like no other eclipses the day after the sunset has spilled its painted light through the archways at dusk. More stars are in your future as your Canyonlands escape follows the tracks of horse wranglers and Native hunters in Dead Horse Point State Park outside Moab. Each dark sky night is a starry feast for the eyes from every rocky vantage point—where Native ancestral tribes and wild mustangs once ruled its mesas 2,000 feet above the Colorado River. The grand finale is the Grand Canyon itself—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and sacred ground for several indigenous tribes of the Canyon region.

What will you need to pack for this enlightening tour of Classical Greece? A sun hat, your thinking cap, and your competitive spirit for starters. Thought-provoking scenery and stories await in the land of powerful Sun Gods, ancient philosophers, and legendary Olympians. From the world-famous Acropolis in Athens to the sacred Temples of Olympia, and the mountainside excavations of Delphi to the monastery-topped rock formations of Meteora, you’ll walk in the footsteps of Greece’s most renowned and mystical figures—and dance in them, too. A glass of traditional ouzo will loosen your joints to learn the lively steps of the sirtaki, made famous in the classic movie Zorba the Greek. A toe-tapping, hands-on adventure, you’ll also learn the secrets of Mediterranean cuisine and how to make traditional tzatziki cucumber dip. Don’t forget to bring your appetite, too!

If you’re looking for the perfect town and country getaway, by Jove, this is it! This 7-day tour of London and the surrounding countryside is just the right balance of city and scenery, royalty and ruins, and landmarks and landscapes. With six nights in London, you’ll relish plenty of time along the Thames as well as exciting day trips that trade Big Ben for the small, quaint villages of England. Beyond London’s legendary parks and palaces, you’ll explore Shakespeare’s roots in lovely Stratford-upon-Avon, walk the medieval streets of scholarly Oxford, study the cryptic remnants of prehistoric Stonehenge, and ponder the mystery of the curious stones as you enjoy a cuppa in one of Salisbury’s half-timbered tearooms. Serving up the right balance of guided, must-see sightseeing with ample free time to explore London on your own, this tour of London and country is the bee’s knees.

“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’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.

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.

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.

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.

Time travel on this 7-day escorted tour of the beautiful Balkans from Tirana to Dubrovnik and discover how the past stands still and the future is in full play. From the seemingly unchanged villages and natural landscapes to the languid lakes and legendary seascapes of Albania and Croatia, you’ll find the vibrant life of artisans, ancient architecture, and fortresses that hold the secrets of wars past, and freedom won. Capture the beauty of the Balkans on the pink-paved streets and markets mixed with the Byzantine and Venetian architecture of Kotor, Montenegro; the legends of sea stories in Perast; and the massive fortress walls of Dubrovnik. A gem of a vacation in the Balkans that’s worth its weight in gold. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Dubrovnik so you can plan your day your way.