Everything’s coming up roses on this special tour of Los Angeles, starting with a festive gala complete with beats, bites, and bubbly to ring in the New Year L.A. style. The celebration continues New Year’s Day with Pasadena’s famous Tournament of Roses Parade! Enjoy reserved grandstand seats, an official commemorative program, and prime viewing of the spectacular floral floats and marching bands from around the world. Stop and smell the roses at the post-parade viewing area to get an up-close look at the intricate artistry of flowers, plants, and seeds in the float designs. Your California vacation includes guided sightseeing in Los Angeles, visit to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, special New Year’s Day lunch, and a farewell dinner at a popular local L.A. eatery.

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!

Ninety-nine bottles of beer on the wall, centuries of fascinating history, and more sausage stands than you can count await on this delicious introductory tour of Germany. As you follow the delectable scent of sizzling bratwurst and freshly baked pretzels from bustling Berlin to Bavarian Munich, your eyes will be as pleased as your taste buds. The elegantly restored city of Dresden, the charming medieval town of Rothenburg, the Passion Play pilgrimage town of Oberammergau, and the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle present picture-perfect backdrops for your memory books. While Munich’s theatrical Glockenspiel clock may announce the time three times a day, the lively Biergarten throughout Germany will happily tell you it’s always “beer thirty.” PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Munich so you can plan your day your way.

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.

On this Escape, you can experience Europe’s most popular destinations without the crowds—and even better—without the high-season prices. Rome, Florence, Venice, Lucerne, and Paris—these exciting and vibrant cities await you on this thrilling European tour. Guided sightseeing tours will highlight the must-see attractions, including the Vatican Museums with the Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum the ancient arena of the Gladiators in Rome; the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, where you will see Michelangelo’s famous David statue; the Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, dating back to the 14th century; and a Seine cruise in Paris, where you’ll want your camera ready to capture the magnificent views of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. Other highlights of this guided tour of Europe are a welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Rome, a pasta dinner in Venice, and a stop in the town of Lugano with its sparkling lake surrounded by the Alps. But that’s not all…throughout this European Escape, Globus has arranged VIP access for you. So, you won’t be waiting in long lines to enter the Vatican Museums in Rome or the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence. We work behind the scenes to minimize the lines and wait times, so you can maximize the fun. It’s a trip of a lifetime available at a price that screams, “Let’s go!”

If you were the type of kid who always marched to your own drum, this bold tour of Costa Rica is just the escape for you. Wide-open spaces, multi-hued creatures, and bright, vivid scenery welcome you with open arms and a no-holds-barred spirit. As you make your way through Costa Rica, lava trails, cloud forests, and high-in-the-sky suspension bridges invite you to take a walk on the wild side while scenic boat rides, nature walks, and natural hot springs beckon you to leisurely soak in the views. Frolic among hundreds of species of butterflies, birds, reptiles, and wildlife in the most vibrant rainforests, and feast on your own delicious Costa Rican creations in an authentic cooking class. With visits to an active volcano and exotic fruit plantations, plus several meet-and-greets with the native macaws and monkeys, this vacation to Costa Rica is bananas!

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!

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.

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.

Iceland is a country known for its natural wonders: glaciers, active volcanoes, black-sand beaches, geothermal areas, roaring rivers, majestic waterfalls, and beautiful lakes. On this escorted tour of Iceland, start and end in Reykjavik, and witness these natural wonders while enjoying unique experiences. Take an evening excursion by motorcoach to enjoy the spectacular experience of witnessing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Iceland’s night sky (weather permitting). Globus has also included some spectacular experiences to make your Iceland vacation special. In Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, walk through the rift valley that marks the separation between two of the world’s major tectonic plates. In Geysir, experience the geothermal areas and taste freshly baked bread, cooked using the heat from the hot springs. Pair it with a glass of Geysir schnapps. Marvel at the Gullfoss waterfall; drive through the national park at Skaftafell; and stop at Lake Jökulsárlón, where some of the most spectacular scenes of the James Bond movie Die Another Day were filmed. Join us to experience the exquisite natural beauty that will stay with you for years to come—a guided vacation in Iceland you’ll treasure forever.

A cuppa tea or a petit café? A sugar-dusted scone or a savory-filled crêpe? A pint of shandy or a flute of Champagne? The beauty of visiting two of the world’s most fascinating cities in one vacation is that you can indulge in the delights of both. On this 7-day tour of London and Paris, you’ll enjoy in-depth guided sightseeing along the cities’ famous roads and rues, as well as from the perspective of the legendary Thames and Seine rivers as you take in the historic skylines on relaxing, story-filled cruises. The fun continues to flow as you admire panoramic views aboard the London Eye Ferris Wheel and indulge on a French specialty in Paris’ lively Montmartre art district. With plenty of free time in each city, you can immerse yourself in the famous sights you’ve long envisioned, the storied streets you’ve often imagined, and the sidewalk cafés you’ve always dreamed of. PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Paris 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.

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!

This relaxed 10-day tour combines many lesser visited parts of Ireland with some of the must-see iconic locations. The delights of Dublin, Kilkenny, Waterford, Killarney, and Galway are combined with more remote and unique experiences. Hear from an expert about the ancient Gaelic sport of hurling and take the chance to hit a few “sliotars” yourself; take a boat ride over to the tiny island of Cape Clear where one of its 110 inhabitants will tell all about their life; make (and eat) your own scones and watch a sheep dog at work at a typical Irish farm; have lunch in an Irish pub; hear about the ancient art of whiskey distilling at a modern distillery at the cutting edge of 21st century sustainability; and visit one of the world’s premier horse studs. You’ll leave with your Irish Heart filled! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Waterford so you can plan your day your way.

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, Eva 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 take 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!

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.

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.

Escape to Peru with a 9-day adventure from its valleys to mountaintops. Discover Peru’s Nazca Lines giving a whole new meaning to drawing a line in the sand. Flightseeing is the best way to see these massive geoglyphs etched into the desert— where the ancient Nazca people likely performed spiritual ceremonies. Get up close and personal with llamas and alpacas in the Sacred Valley and get more than you bargained for in textiles and treasures at Pisaq’s famous market. Journey by train through the Urubamba Valley to explore the lofty “Lost City of the Incas”—Machu Picchu. Dig deeper into ancient Peru with visits to the Incan temple of Sacsayhuaman, as well as cathedrals of Spanish conquistadores. Enter this Incan empire of the past and please the palate with a taste of Peruvian classics in Cusco. Meet the locals who weave magic upon their looms and be won over by the warmth and hospitality of the Peruvian people.

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.

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.

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. In 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. Continue to Chile’s captivating city of Santiago as the perfect ending to this South America escape. Walk in the footsteps of iconic poet Pablo Neruda in the shadow of the Andes Mountains. A poetic ending to a stunning South America tour.