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.

“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 I-Time you crave on an Independence by Globus vacation. 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 I-time to explore more of Bangkok and other nearby attractions including Damnoen Saduak floating market and the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. Travel to Chiang Rai and visit the “Golden Triangle,” where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet, and tour a local tea plantation. 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.

We’re on the top of the world on this 10-day escorted tour of Scandinavia—the Arctic Circle to be exact. Explore the Land of the Midnight Sun as you travel into the exquisite beauty of from Finland to Norway. Along the way, you’ll be warmed by the traditions, tastes, and legends. Begin in Finland’s southern capital of Helsinki poised on the country’s gulf peninsula, where Nordic cuisine is as hearty as the generations of tradition here. Visit Santa at the village of Rovaniemi, just across the Arctic Circle, once you’re sure to be on the “good list,” head through Lapland to the North Cape of Norway to discover the Sámi culture alive today in Karasjok. Call in a husky farm to learn about the life of mushers and sled dogs. Continue to Tromsø where the glow from the Arctic Cathedral adds a shining light to the end of your amazing arctic adventure!

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 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.

While starry-eyed lovers profess their devotion by attaching engraved padlocks to the Niagara Falls Lock Bridge and throwing away the key, this lovely tour of Eastern Canada unlocks the brightest sights from the thundering falls to quaint Québec City. Cinch your poncho hood tightly for a thrilling boat cruise to the magnificent Horseshoe Falls before immersing yourself in the varied cityscapes of Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal, and Québec City. With guided sightseeing in each, this encompassing tour of Eastern Canada makes it easy to compare and contrast the diverse flavors of the region – especially with an included lofty lunch at Toronto’s soaring CN Tower, local wine with dinner at picturesque Niagara Falls, a scenic cruise around the rugged Thousand Islands, a classic French dinner in Old Town Québec, and breakfast in a traditional sugar shack. A must-have beavertail pastry in the capital city of Ottawa is just as sweet.

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.

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!

Discover Eastern Canada on an 8-day vacation from Toronto to Montreal. How will you happen upon French-Canadian fun? Sailing rivers and harbors or sipping sparkling wines? Soaring above scenic ports, soaking in a Scandinavian spa or sampling savory specialties in secret restaurants? With complimentary YourChoice Excursions, you choose when, where, and how to say, “C’est si bon!” Why This Tour Invites a OUI-ly Good Time: •A spectacular sojourn through the majestic sights and towering heights of Eastern Canada. •City flair and French-Canadian fare from small pleasures to mammoth treasures. •Included YourChoice Excursions in Toronto, Mont-Tremblant, and Montreal •Oh Canada!

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!

Journey through Japan on this fascinating Independence by Globus itinerary. A “prefecture” and capital of Japan, Tokyo is the world’s most populous metro area and home to unlimited choices—shopping, dining, entertainment, historic temples and sites, peaceful gardens, and excellent museums. Your private guided sightseeing tour includes Meiji Shrine, a 20th-century Shinto monument built within a man-made forest; browse the bustling Nakamise Shopping Arcade; and visit one of the city’s most dazzling temples, the Asakusa Kannon Temple. You’ll also ascend the Tokyo Skytree for spectacular views over the city. During your free day you may choose a trip to Mount Fuji. A highlight of the vacation is the shinkansen (bullet train) ride from Tokyo to Kyoto. Reaching nearly 200-mile-per-hour, this is by far the most entertaining way to travel between cities. The “cradle” of Japan’s cultural heritage, Kyoto, was the country’s capital and residence of the emperor from the 8th until the 19th centuries. Your private guided sightseeing tour includes visits to Sanjusangendo Temple, the Samurai Museum, where you can learn about Japanese history and see authentic swords and armor, and the beautiful Temple of the Gold Pavilion. Built on a lake and surrounded by a thick forest, the image of the temple’s reflection in the water is a can't-miss photo opportunity and memorable scenic view. You’ll also walk through Gion and explore the thousands of Torii Gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine. Take some I-time for a visit nearby Nara or to explore Nishiki Market.

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 Independence by Globus vacation in South America takes you to the legendary sites in Lima, Cusco, magnificent Machu Picchu – the “Lost City of the Incas,” and Lake Titicaca. Explore ancient ruins that defy explanation and encounter the captivating cultures that live on in the Sacred Valley. Fly to Juliaca and travel to the shores of Lake Titicaca and sail on the highest navigable lake in the world to explore Taquile Island, a remnant of the Inca Empire. Marvel at the Uros Islands, where locals continue age-old traditions on these floating islands made entirely of reeds. and the locals continue their traditional way of life. Visit the ruins of Sillustani—the fascinating pre-Inca burial ground of ancient high priests. Timeless temples, textiles, and tantalizing dishes are all on the menu on this free-spirited sojourn in Peru, including the I-time you crave to explore on your own.

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. How about a trip on the Thames before you cross the pond? Add a 3-night extension to London to your tour of Scotland and let an express train whisk you from Edinburgh to the palaces, pubs, and pints that await. Raise a glass to guided sightseeing and ample time on your own for personal pursuits.

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.

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.

If you’re in search of a different European experience, just head north to the intersection of yesterday and tomorrow. Old meets new and tradition meets innovation on this cool tour of Scandinavia and its most exciting hot spots. With two-night stays in the capital cities of Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, you’ll wake up to Copenhagen’s rush hour of designer-clad cyclists, Oslo’s stunning skyline “starchitecture,” Stockholm’s trendy galleries and gastro pubs, and Helsinki’s electrifying design scene. Within these hipster hubs, you’ll follow ancient Viking trails and the narrowest of cobblestone streets to the palaces and museums that hold the most fascinating historical stories—and the indoor and outdoor markets that carry the most intriguing snacks and souvenirs. The cool factor is illuminated on a breezy overnight cruise across the Baltic Sea from Stockholm to Helsinki.

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.

Oh, say can you see the nation’s birthplace, capital, and significant battlefields from your easy chair? Of course not! Pack up your patriotism and head east for Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and the notable settlements, landmarks, and presidential estates of the historic East. America’s greatest chapters in history come to life as you stroll down the quaint streets of Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown, march in the steps of American Revolution and Civil War soldiers, and stand inside the remarkable Palladian walls of George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Prepare to be moved as this East Coast vacation leads you to the marbled memorials of D.C., the sacred site of Lincoln’s Gettysburg address, and the symbolic Liberty Bell in the City of Brotherly Love. Combining national treasures with small town gems – plus a visit to see the wonder and expansive views of Shenandoah National Park – this vacation through America’s historic East promises discovery and wonder for all.

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! If there’s ever a time to imitate the slow-moving sloth, it would be in its native country. A change of scenery and speed await on Costa Rica’s lush, northwestern shore. Add the seaside resort of Guanacaste to your tour of Costa Rica to catch marlin, mahi mahi, or just some mellow rays on the beach.

When you stroll through Croatia’s leafy towns, enjoy a walk in a national park, and marvel at its sparkling emerald lakes, it’s easy to see why other countries are green with envy. With its glorious coastal cities, ancient Roman ruins, magnificent medieval architecture, and stunning natural wonders, Croatia has it all. On this Undiscovered Tour of Croatia and Slovenia, you will see what European vacationers have long tried to keep secret from the rest of the world—impressive caves and castles, spectacular waterfalls, and walled cities, picture-perfect shorelines, and famous film locations. Game of Thrones fans will recognize Old Town Dubrovnik as the medieval setting for the fictional city of King’s Landing, yet at the end of this dramatic vacation to Croatia, you’ll be perfectly happy with the start-to-finish storyline.

How do you express your eternal devotion to the love of your life? Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan enlisted the help of more than 20,000 workers and 1,000 elephants to erect a towering white marble mausoleum dedicated to his wife who died during childbirth. A sunrise visit to the magnificent Taj Mahal, one of the New7Wonders of the World, is just the beginning of your love affair with India. Beyond India’s most sparkling jewel lies a priceless gem mine of experiences you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Hop in a rickshaw for a ride through Delhi’s centuries-old Chandni Chowk bazaar, sit down for traditional Indian cuisine in the home of a noble family in Jaipur, and embark on three thrilling open-air safari game drives through Ranthambore National Park in search of marsh crocodiles, striped hyenas, and the elusive Bengal tiger. A mosaic of memories awaits on this radiant tour of India.

Don’t be shy—you’re not the only daydreamer with a major crush on Scotland. With its lush rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, tiny villages, and towering fairytale castles, what’s not to love? On this Undiscovered Tour of Scotland, you’ll feel your heart skip a beat as you journey through the breathtaking Highlands, ferry to its most beautiful islands, and immerse yourself in a world of haunting bagpipes, hallowed battlefields, and hoppy brews — the perfect choice for washing down traditional fish and chips at a Scottish chippy. With visits to the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, the legendary golf town of St. Andrews, and a famous whisky distillery for a tour and a wee dram, this Scotland vacation offers countless opportunities to raise a glass to your many passions. Making a spectacular scenic loop from Edinburgh to Glasgow, this Scottish Highland Fling tour is indeed an affair to remember.

Whoever said “Life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows” never visited the enchanting state of New Mexico or attended the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. 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. But for one week in October, chasing rainbows becomes even easier as 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.

Embark on an odyssey of epic proportions on this 12-day vacation in Greece. How will you unleash your inner god or goddess? Sailing on sapphire waters? Exploring ancient treasures? Mixing it up with the locals or stirring up Greek specialties? With complimentary YourChoice Excursions, you choose when, where, and how to say,?“Opa!”? Keep the adventure afloat and the wind in your sails on an Aegean Sea cruise to ancient digs in Turkey and the gardens of the gods on the Greek isles. Why This Tour is Epic from A to Zeus: An immersive Greek odyssey on land and sea. A flexible itinerary that offers oceans of legendary sights and myth-breaking stories. Included YourChoice Excursions in Athens and Volos. You Odyssey It!

Everything in life has its ups and downs, including this fascinating tour of Arizona that directs your eyes to ancient cliff dwellings, towering spires, the deepest of canyons, and the deepest of mysteries. Exactly how did the Sinagua Indians reach their cliffside, five-story, high-rise at Montezuma Castle? Explore these enigmas and more as you visit the lost canyons and cultures of the American Southwest. Guided jeep tours through Canyon de Chelly National Monument and the red rock scenery of Sedona get you closer to the secrets within the region’s sandstone formations, as does an adventuresome train ride on the Verde Canyon Scenic Railroad. From Phoenix to Vegas, you’ll enjoy sightseeing in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Jerome – plus a visit to Boulder City’s Hoover Dam Museum. A visit to Petrified Forest National Park as well as time in Meteor Crater Natural Landmark are additional sights sure to leave an impact.

See Israel and Jordan on this guided tour of the historic Middle East, and enjoy shorter travel time, fewer crowds, and lower costs than the busy travel season. Begin in Tel Aviv, stop in the port of Jaffa, then through the Holy Land to Caesarea to visit the Roman Amphitheater and Crusader Fortress, and in Nazareth in Galilee, to visit the Church of the Annunciation. Stop in Cana—site of Jesus’ wedding miracle—on your way to Haifa. Visit the sites of Jesus’ life, including the Mount of Beatitudes and Capernaum. Travel to David and Goliath’s Valley of Elah; Samson and Delilah’s Valley of Ayalon; and cruise on the Sea of Galilee. You’ll also visit the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem, and enjoy a four-night stay in Jerusalem. Take an excursion to Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, and visit the Israel Museum, which holds the Shrine of the Book, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. Visit Jerusalem’s Old City, the Garden Tomb, and the Mount of Olives. See the Garden of Gethsemane, follow the Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa, and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre at the site of the crucifixion. View the Temple Mount, the Dome of the Rock mosque, and visit the holy Western Wall; take an excursion to historic Masada to visit the cliff-top fortress; and float in the waters of the Dead Sea—with fewer crowds in this low-season travel to Israel. In Jordan, travel to Bethany Beyond the Jordan, where John the Baptist is said to have baptized Jesus; Madaba with its archaeological treasures; Mount Nebo, where Moses saw the Promised Land; and Jordan’s “Grand Canyon” at Wadi Mujib. Take an exciting four-wheel drive through the pristine desert of Wadi Rum. Visit Petra, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World—stand in awe in front of the 1st-century-BC Treasury, carved into the sheer sandstone rock, and walk down the Siq, the colorful gorge between the high cliffs; also sip tea in a real Bedouin tent. From Jordan’s capital Amman, travel to the Greco-Roman city of Jerash. Ancient sites and fascinating landscapes await you on this off-season guided tour of Israel and Jordan—without the crowds, costs, or lengthy travel schedule of the high season!