Latest news with #Contiki
Travel Weekly
12 hours ago
- Travel Weekly
Contiki expands its roster of African safaris for young travelers
Contiki, a tour operator specializing in trips for travelers ages 18 to 35, is expanding its Africa portfolio with four new itineraries. Contiki says itineraries in South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania and Eswatini deliver "the classic safari experience with added adrenaline and cultural immersion, without the premium price tag." The tour operator said there's a rise in demand for travel to Africa, with year-over-year bookings up 11% for Tanzania and 46% for Eswatini. "One of the standout features of these trips is that the entire group travels together in a single custom safari vehicle, which adds to the game-viewing experience, helping travelers see over the long grass for full views," said Kyle Junkuhn, a safari guide and Contiki's operations manager in Africa. The "Kenya & Tanzania Adventure" itinerary covers five national parks in 11 days, including the Maasai Mara and Amboseli. Travelers will take a hot-air balloon ride over the plains. The trip begins in Nairobi and ends in Arusha. The "Kenya Adventure" itinerary begins and ends in Nairobi, taking travelers to five cities in six days. Itinerary highlights include game drives to see the "Big Five," mountain biking, a hot-air balloon ride and whitewater rafting. The "Tanzania Adventure" itinerary visits six cities in six days and includes exploring the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. The trip includes daily game drives, and travelers can go on treetop walks, cultural village visits and a night safari to spy big cats after dark. The itineraries include a custom overland vehicle and premium campsite accommodations. Tents will be pre-assembled by the team with amenities taken care of, the company said. The itineraries will be led by trip managers who are trained safari guides. There also will be a driver and a chef. Contiki also launched a new version of its "Cape, Safari & Falls" itinerary called "Cape Town, Kruger & Bushfire Festival." This version includes the MTN Bushfire Festival, one of Africa's biggest music events. The nine-day itinerary features game drives in Kruger National Park and three nights at the Bushfire Festival.
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Yahoo
Why running vacations are the next big travel trend
It's almost sunset, and the waterfront Műegyetem Wharf is just beginning to stir. The autumn heat, heavy as a weighted blanket, lingers over Budapest, yet a peculiar anticipation hangs in the air as hundreds of people gather for the Generali Night Run Budapest in late August. The 13-mile route winds through the Hungarian capital's heart, taking runners up a 100-meter hill, past the towering Buda Castle, beneath the grand arches of the Chain Bridge, and along the lower embankment, where the illuminated Parliament, Margaret Bridge, and echoing Tunnel unfold like a moving postcard. As the sun bleeds into the Danube, the rhythmic pulse of live bands and the roar of spectators transform the city into a festival of motion and adrenaline, with the night sky as a dramatic backdrop. Distance running has long been a benchmark of fitness, but it's also becoming a fascinating way for travelers to explore new destinations. 'I barely prepared—actually, I didn't run for a month due to an ankle injury,' says Drew Loynes, a Londoner who joined the night run after quitting his tech job last year to travel the world. 'I was in places where it was too hot to run or where the roads didn't feel safe. But running that half marathon in Budapest was an incredible experience and the city easily lends itself to casual running.' Loynes' story reflects a growing trend—travelers are increasingly blending fitness with exploration. Hospitality company Accor predicts that athletic adventures will be one of 2025's biggest travel trends, noting a 50 percent rise in searches for 'workout holidays' over the past year. As more people seek to achieve personal health goals, recreational sports are becoming an integral part of travel plans. With run clubs surging in popularity last year, running holidays seem like the natural next step. According to Strava's 2024 Year in Sport report, global participation in running clubs jumped by 59 percent in 2024. This momentum has prompted companies like Contiki to introduce run club trips later this summer. Designed for 18- to 35-year-olds, their flagship itinerary offers a chance to explore up to 16 European destinations—taking in iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum—on foot while fostering social connections in a club-style format. 'Run clubs represent more than a fitness trend for our audience, they're a way to connect, explore and build community in an increasingly fragmented, online world,' says Contiki chief marketing officer Lottie Norman. 'The appetite for active trips is increasing as bookings on our active itineraries surged 105 percent from 2023 to 2024, with group runs emerging as trip highlights.' Urban landscapes aren't the only draw, rugged nature is just as enticing. For Liz Gill, founder of Runcation Travel—a U.S.-based adventure outfit offering guided and self-guided running retreats across Europe and the Americas—hut-to-hut running in the Dolomites in 2016 was a transformative experience. 'It was my biggest week in the mountains at that point,' says the California native, who covered 80 miles and 7,620 meters of elevation gain over seven days. The following year, Gill introduced the itinerary to her running network, and it remains one of Runcation's most popular offerings—alongside the alpine landscapes of Mammoth Lakes, a renowned training ground for marathoners on the fringes of Yosemite National Park, and the wild expanses of Argentinian Patagonia; the latter has 15 times the waitlist this year than in winter 2024. Some of Gill's most memorable runs have stemmed from personal travels in Cuba's Viñales region, known for its tobacco farms, and Kenya's Iten, an unchallenged epicenter of distance running. 'In Viñales, you can jog along rolling dirt roads and still meet locals who'll happily point you to farms where you can buy a coffee and watch the sunrise,' she says. 'Iten, on the other hand, is all about the community—Olympians and aspiring runners training side by side. I'd head out at 6 a.m. on a Thursday, and the roads would already be buzzing. You could jump into a pack, no matter your level, and join in; one week it might be a fartlek workout, the next something entirely different.' (Related: Here are 5 places with the most incredible running trails in the world) Socializing is a major draw for those opting for running holidays. 'I love these trips because they get me out of the city and keep me on my toes (literally) in some of the most beautiful places in the world,' says Megha Doshi, a product marketing professional who has joined three of Runcation Travel's trips—to the Dolomites, Patagonia, and Chamonix. 'Coordinating something like this with friends is nearly impossible—the logistics alone, not to mention finding people who want to explore new places on foot.' While running is often a solitary activity, those who do it in groups tend to get much more out of the experience—both socially and emotionally. Still, some apprehension is natural. 'It's human nature to be intimidated by something new, but I'd encourage people to give it a try,' says Gill. 'If you live somewhere flat and see an itinerary in the mountains, don't assume you can't do it. Reach out for tips, research how to prepare—just because it's not part of your daily routine doesn't mean it's out of reach.' 'Irrespective of travel, running is known to boost cardiovascular and joint health, aid fat loss, improve energy levels, and enhance bone density—potentially preventing osteopenia and osteoporosis,' says doctor Kruti Khemani, an AHPRA-registered sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapist and founder of Mumbai-based Continuum Physiotherapy and Rehab LLP. 'It can also improve sleep quality and help you adjust to new time zones faster, easing jet lag.' Research also shows a strong link between running and mental well-being, with some individuals experiencing a 'runner's high'—a short-lived but intense feeling of euphoria. According to a study by David J. Linden, a neuroscience professor at Johns Hopkins University, this post-run bliss is likely due to endocannabinoids, natural compounds in the body similar to cannabis. Unlike endorphins, endocannabinoids cross the blood-brain barrier, promoting relaxation, reduced anxiety, and an overall sense of calm. Other benefits include improved focus, memory, and mood elevation. (Related: The brain has a secret survival trick to endure a marathon) 'Physical health benefits don't come overnight, so preparation is key,' advises Khemani. If you're transitioning from running on flat pavements to uneven trails, slopes or rocky surfaces, share the details with a trainer, physiotherapist, or coach to tailor your training. If self-training, start at least six-to-eight weeks in advance, incorporating gym work to strengthen key muscles. Running long distances increases the risk of repetitive stress injuries (RSI) and acute issues like ankle or ligament strains, especially on unfamiliar terrain. Uphill and downhill stretches can strain the knees, so pacing is crucial. 'If unexpected challenges arise, adjust your pace to allow for recovery. Don't treat it like a marathon,' says Khemani. Warm up, stretch before and after runs, stay hydrated, and carry electrolytes to prevent cramps. Footwear matters—don't switch shoes, terrain or distance last minute, or risk injury. Nutrition also plays a role: Hydrate regularly, opt for water and nutrient-rich foods, and avoid dehydrants like alcohol, caffeine, and greasy meals before the runs. 'Go low on carbs and high on protein to fuel your runs effectively,' says Khemani. Gill notes that, compared to other sports or activities, runners love to lounge. Having a comfortable space to relax or access to a massage can make a big difference. (Related: The definitive list of running shoes for every kind of runner, according to pros) Pooja Naik is an independent journalist whose work has appeared in BBC Travel, National Geographic Traveller UK, Lonely Planet, Conde Nast Traveller India, and other outlets. Follow her on Instagram.
National Geographic
01-05-2025
- Sport
- National Geographic
Why running vacations are the next big travel trend
It's almost sunset, and the waterfront Műegyetem Wharf is just beginning to stir. The autumn heat, heavy as a weighted blanket, lingers over Budapest, yet a peculiar anticipation hangs in the air as hundreds of people gather for the Generali Night Run Budapest in late August. The 13-mile route winds through the Hungarian capital's heart, taking runners up a 100-meter hill, past the towering Buda Castle, beneath the grand arches of the Chain Bridge, and along the lower embankment, where the illuminated Parliament, Margaret Bridge, and echoing Tunnel unfold like a moving postcard. As the sun bleeds into the Danube, the rhythmic pulse of live bands and the roar of spectators transform the city into a festival of motion and adrenaline, with the night sky as a dramatic backdrop. Distance running has long been a benchmark of fitness, but it's also becoming a fascinating way for travelers to explore new destinations. 'I barely prepared—actually, I didn't run for a month due to an ankle injury,' says Drew Loynes, a Londoner who joined the night run after quitting his tech job last year to travel the world. 'I was in places where it was too hot to run or where the roads didn't feel safe. But running that half marathon in Budapest was an incredible experience and the city easily lends itself to casual running.' Running vacations are on the rise, as travelers seek out new ways to explore destinations. Photograph Courtesy Runcation Travel/Camille Matonis The rise of workout vacations Loynes' story reflects a growing trend—travelers are increasingly blending fitness with exploration. Hospitality company Accor predicts that athletic adventures will be one of 2025's biggest travel trends, noting a 50 percent rise in searches for 'workout holidays' over the past year. As more people seek to achieve personal health goals, recreational sports are becoming an integral part of travel plans. With run clubs surging in popularity last year, running holidays seem like the natural next step. According to Strava's 2024 Year in Sport report, global participation in running clubs jumped by 59 percent in 2024. This momentum has prompted companies like Contiki to introduce run club trips later this summer. Designed for 18- to 35-year-olds, their flagship itinerary offers a chance to explore up to 16 European destinations—taking in iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum—on foot while fostering social connections in a club-style format. 'Run clubs represent more than a fitness trend for our audience, they're a way to connect, explore and build community in an increasingly fragmented, online world,' says Contiki chief marketing officer Lottie Norman. 'The appetite for active trips is increasing as bookings on our active itineraries surged 105 percent from 2023 to 2024, with group runs emerging as trip highlights.' Travelers enjoy hut-to-hut running through the Dolomites. Photograph Courtesy Runcation Travel/Jaime Cartales The allure of nature Urban landscapes aren't the only draw, rugged nature is just as enticing. For Liz Gill, founder of Runcation Travel—a U.S.-based adventure outfit offering guided and self-guided running retreats across Europe and the Americas—hut-to-hut running in the Dolomites in 2016 was a transformative experience. 'It was my biggest week in the mountains at that point,' says the California native, who covered 80 miles and 7,620 meters of elevation gain over seven days. The following year, Gill introduced the itinerary to her running network, and it remains one of Runcation's most popular offerings—alongside the alpine landscapes of Mammoth Lakes, a renowned training ground for marathoners on the fringes of Yosemite National Park, and the wild expanses of Argentinian Patagonia; the latter has 15 times the waitlist this year than in winter 2024. Some of Gill's most memorable runs have stemmed from personal travels in Cuba's Viñales region, known for its tobacco farms, and Kenya's Iten, an unchallenged epicenter of distance running. 'In Viñales, you can jog along rolling dirt roads and still meet locals who'll happily point you to farms where you can buy a coffee and watch the sunrise,' she says. 'Iten, on the other hand, is all about the community—Olympians and aspiring runners training side by side. I'd head out at 6 a.m. on a Thursday, and the roads would already be buzzing. You could jump into a pack, no matter your level, and join in; one week it might be a fartlek workout, the next something entirely different.' (Related: Here are 5 places with the most incredible running trails in the world) People are joining running clubs for the exercise and the sense of community. Photograph by Shelby Tauber, The New York Times/Redux Finding common ground with strangers Socializing is a major draw for those opting for running holidays. 'I love these trips because they get me out of the city and keep me on my toes (literally) in some of the most beautiful places in the world,' says Megha Doshi, a product marketing professional who has joined three of Runcation Travel's trips—to the Dolomites, Patagonia, and Chamonix. 'Coordinating something like this with friends is nearly impossible—the logistics alone, not to mention finding people who want to explore new places on foot.' While running is often a solitary activity, those who do it in groups tend to get much more out of the experience—both socially and emotionally. Still, some apprehension is natural. 'It's human nature to be intimidated by something new, but I'd encourage people to give it a try,' says Gill. 'If you live somewhere flat and see an itinerary in the mountains, don't assume you can't do it. Reach out for tips, research how to prepare—just because it's not part of your daily routine doesn't mean it's out of reach.' Strava's 2024 Year in Sport report notes that global participation in running clubs jumped by 59 percent in 2024. Photograph Courtesy Runcation Travel Physiological benefits 'Irrespective of travel, running is known to boost cardiovascular and joint health, aid fat loss, improve energy levels, and enhance bone density—potentially preventing osteopenia and osteoporosis,' says doctor Kruti Khemani, an AHPRA-registered sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapist and founder of Mumbai-based Continuum Physiotherapy and Rehab LLP. 'It can also improve sleep quality and help you adjust to new time zones faster, easing jet lag.' Research also shows a strong link between running and mental well-being, with some individuals experiencing a 'runner's high'—a short-lived but intense feeling of euphoria. According to a study by David J. Linden, a neuroscience professor at Johns Hopkins University, this post-run bliss is likely due to endocannabinoids, natural compounds in the body similar to cannabis. Unlike endorphins, endocannabinoids cross the blood-brain barrier, promoting relaxation, reduced anxiety, and an overall sense of calm. Other benefits include improved focus, memory, and mood elevation. (Related: The brain has a secret survival trick to endure a marathon) How to prepare 'Physical health benefits don't come overnight, so preparation is key,' advises Khemani. If you're transitioning from running on flat pavements to uneven trails, slopes or rocky surfaces, share the details with a trainer, physiotherapist, or coach to tailor your training. If self-training, start at least six-to-eight weeks in advance, incorporating gym work to strengthen key muscles. Running long distances increases the risk of repetitive stress injuries (RSI) and acute issues like ankle or ligament strains, especially on unfamiliar terrain. Uphill and downhill stretches can strain the knees, so pacing is crucial. 'If unexpected challenges arise, adjust your pace to allow for recovery. Don't treat it like a marathon,' says Khemani. Warm up, stretch before and after runs, stay hydrated, and carry electrolytes to prevent cramps. Footwear matters—don't switch shoes, terrain or distance last minute, or risk injury. Nutrition also plays a role: Hydrate regularly, opt for water and nutrient-rich foods, and avoid dehydrants like alcohol, caffeine, and greasy meals before the runs. 'Go low on carbs and high on protein to fuel your runs effectively,' says Khemani. Gill notes that, compared to other sports or activities, runners love to lounge. Having a comfortable space to relax or access to a massage can make a big difference. (Related: The definitive list of running shoes for every kind of runner, according to pros) Pooja Naik is an independent journalist whose work has appeared in BBC Travel, National Geographic Traveller UK, Lonely Planet, Conde Nast Traveller India, and other outlets. Follow her on Instagram.
The Independent
25-02-2025
- The Independent
The best budget-friendly holidays for 2025, from Spain to Albania
Still recovering from an expensive period of the year, most of the country will want to save their pennies during these first few months of 2025, yet still have their eyes on a holiday. It's a good idea to swap popular, high-demand holiday spots for up-and-coming regions, or take advantage of places where currencies are weak. Fortunately, there are quite a few options to choose from if you want to save money without compromising on sunshine or the quality of experiences. Here we look at how to escape the price hikes with budget-friendly destinations. 1. Best for beaches: El Gouna, Egypt Far cheaper than the Canary Islands but with even higher temperatures and more hours of sunshine, this purpose-built Red Sea beach destination has undergone a large amount of development since the first marinas and artificial islands were constructed in the early 1990s. Now there are 18 hotels and resorts and more than 100 restaurants and bars lining the 10km of coastline. Recently renovated, the five-star Steigenberger Golf Resort has rooms from £67 per person per night with breakfast – a bargain compared to most winter sun resorts. Due to favourable exchange rates, cocktails cost less than £2 while a meal for two is just over a tenner. A five-night inn break at the Captain's Inn costs from £403 per person including return flights from London. Departs 19 March. Visit 2. Best for adventure: Albania Whether strolling through cobbled streets, gazing up at mountain peaks or swimming in sparkly blue waters, it's easy to mistake Albania for its chic neighbour across the Adriatic Sea. But compared to Italy, the beaches are quieter, hidden spots are more plentiful, and the prices are significantly cheaper. Specialising in trips for 18-35-year-olds, Contiki is the first youth tour operator to offer an escorted journey across the Balkan country. Learn about the past through capital city Tirana's Ottoman, Fascist and Soviet architecture, hike trails in Valbonë National Park and relax on the golden beaches of the Albanian Riviera. 3. Best for families: Galicia, Spain While the mercury is rising to uncomfortable levels during summer in the southern Med, destinations along the north-western Iberian Peninsula are hotting up in demand. Low-cost flights from the likes of Ryanair and Vueling have made it easier to access areas along Spain's Galician coast, where green hills roll into cool Atlantic waters. Specialising in villas with pools, Vintage Travel has added several new properties in the region. Head to the cathedral city Santiago de Compostela to marvel at one of Europe's finest pieces of religious architecture, where dozens of pilgrims gather after multi-day walks. Alternatively, visit the ancient fishing port Coruna, also famous for its Roman lighthouse known as the Tower of Hercules, and dine out on excellent seafood. 4. Best for skiing: Voss, Norway A few years back, it would have been inconceivable to see Norway feature on a list of 'affordable' destinations. But a drop in the value of the Norwegian krone has made it a more economical and appealing destination to visit – at all times of the year. Winter tourism to the Nordic country has always been dominated by the northern lights, but glowing reports for the region's many ski resorts are attracting even more travellers. Located 100km from Bergen, Voss is one of the largest ski resorts in Western Norway with 40km of groomed alpine trails and 24 varied descents, including an international giant slalom course and a SuperG course. Yet it's far better value than many Alpine winter resorts and promises good powder with the support of snow cannons. Being so far north, snow tends to last longer in Norway and some resorts – including Trysil on the Swedish border – even promise a refund on your lift pass, accommodation, ski rental and tuition if the coverage isn't sufficient. A seven-night half-board stay at Park Hotel, Voss, costs from £1,224 per person (two sharing), including flights. Departs 23 March. Visit 5. Best for nature: Bosnia and Herzegovina Born from a history as colourful and complex as its diverse landscapes, this relatively undiscovered Balkan nation only attracts 3.6 million tourists per year – almost six times less than Croatia. Yet the scenery, beaches, food and culture are equally attractive, while prices are much lower. According to flight aggregate site Skyscanner, capital city Sarajevo has seen the largest drop in airfares across Europe, with new routes recently launched from London Stanstead with Ryanair. Set along the Miljacka River and surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, the city features several museums and historical buildings from eras of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian rule. Further afield, it's the country's natural beauty that shines – from the fairy-tale Kravica Waterfall to the never-ending Tara Canyon which runs into Montenegro.
The Independent
22-02-2025
- The Independent
The best holidays to go on this year that won't break the bank
The start of the year will often bring escalating prices, and these, in turn, will hit our travel plans. Moist of the country will want to save the pennies after an expensive January, but still have their eyes on a holiday this year. Savvy travellers can still find affordable escapes in lesser-known regions or countries with weaker currencies. Here we look at how to escape the price hikes with budget-friendly destinations. Swap popular, high-demand holiday spots for up-and-coming regions, or take advantage of places where currencies are weak. Fortunately, there are quite a few options to choose from if you want to save money without compromising on sunshine or the quality of experiences. Best for beach: El Gouna, Egypt Far cheaper than the Canary Islands but with even higher temperatures and more hours of sunshine, this purpose-built Red Sea beach destination has undergone a large amount of development since the first marinas and artificial islands were constructed in the early 1990s. Now there are 18 hotels and resorts and more than 100 restaurants and bars lining the 10km of coastline. Recently renovated, the five-star Steigenberger Golf Resort has rooms from £60 per person per night with breakfast – a bargain compared to most winter sun resorts. Due to favourable exchange rates, cocktails cost less than £2 while a meal for two is just over a tenner. How: A four-night B&B break at the adults only Cook's Club El Gouna from £309 per person including flights. Departs January 13. Visit Whether strolling through cobbled streets, gazing up at mountain peaks or swimming in sparkly blue waters, it's easy to mistake Albania for its chic neighbour across the Adriatic Sea. But compared to Italy, the beaches are quieter, hidden spots are more plentiful, and the prices are significantly cheaper. Specialising in trips for 18-35-year-olds, Contiki is the first youth tour operator to offer an escorted journey across the Balkan country. Learn about the past through capital city Tirana's Ottoman, Fascist and Soviet architecture, hike trails in Valbonë National Park and relax on the golden beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Best for families: Galicia, Spain While the mercury is rising to uncomfortable levels during summer in the southern Med, destinations along the north-western Iberian Peninsula are hotting-up in demand. Low-cost flights from the likes of Ryanair and Vueling have made it easier to access areas along Spain's Galician coast, where green hills roll into cool Atlantic waters. Specialising in villas with pools, Vintage Travel has added several new properties in the region. Head to cathedral city Santiago de Compostela to marvel at one of Europe's finest pieces of religious architecture, where dozens of pilgrims gather after multi-day walks. Alternatively, visit ancient fishing port Coruna, also famous for its Roman lighthouse known as the Tower of Hercules, and dine out on excellent seafood. How: Casa de Descanso, a newly restored three-bedroomed house in Galician village Mosende, costs from £798 for a week in May rising to £1150 in August. Visit A few years back, it would have been inconceivable to see Norway feature on a list of 'affordable' destinations. But a drop in the value of the Norwegian krone has made it a more economical and appealing destination to visit – at all times of the year. Winter tourism to the Nordic country has always been dominated by the northern lights, but glowing reports for the region's many ski resorts are attracting even more travellers. Located 100km from Bergen, Voss is one of the largest ski resorts in Western Norway with 40km of groomed alpine trails and 24 varied descents, including an international giant slalom course and a SuperG course. Yet it's far better value than many Alpine winter resorts and promises good powder with the support of snow cannons. Being so far north, snow tends to last longer in Norway and some resorts – including Trysil on the Swedish border – even promise a refund on your lift pass, accommodation, ski rental and tuition if the coverage isn't sufficient. How: A seven-night half board stay at Park Hotel, Voss, costs from £1,195 per person (two sharing), including flights and transfers. Departs March 16. Visit Best for nature: Bosnia and Herzegovina Born from a history as colourful and complex as its diverse landscapes, this relatively undiscovered Balkan nation only attracts 3.6 million tourists per year – almost six times less than Croatia. Yet the scenery, beaches, food and culture are equally attractive, while prices are much lower. According to flight aggregate site Skyscanner, capital city Sarajevo has seen the largest drop in airfares across Europe, with new routes recently launched from London Stanstead with Ryanair. Set along the Miljacka River and surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, the city features several museums and historical buildings from eras of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian rule. Further afield, it's the country's natural beauty that shines – from the fairy-tale Kravica Waterfall to the never-ending Tara Canyon which runs into Montenegro.
