Latest news with #JakesMaritz
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
I'm a Travel Expert: 5 Top Travel Destinations for Millennials Worth the Money in 2025
According to Jakes Maritz, co-founder and board chair at TourAxis, millennials are completely reshaping the travel landscape. In fact, when it comes to travel, millennials are now one of the world's most influential demographics. So what is it they're looking for in a vacation? 'Millennial travelers seek out unique destinations, prioritize sustainable tourism, and crave authentic and immersive cultural experiences,' Maritz said. And, importantly, having entered the workforce during the Great Recession, many millennials want the most value for their money. Read More: Explore More: Here are five travel destinations worth the money and aligned with millennial values, according to travel experts. 'With its captivating blend of cutting-edge innovation, ancient traditions and breathtaking aesthetics, Japan is a top destination on many millennial travelers' bucket lists,' Maritz said. From cherry blossoms and sumo wrestling to authentic sushi and serene temples, the island nation of Japan submerses travelers with a unique combination of old and new. Travelers can explore neon-lit skyscrapers and shrines in well-known cities like Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima, as well as gardens and castles in hidden gems like Kanazawa and Takayama. And they shouldn't leave without a visit to a green tea farm or a ride on the legendary Shinkansen bullet train. Per Maritz, a 13-day tour (with lodging included) can begin around $2,600 per person. Check Out: 'With its unrivaled natural diversity from rolling winelands and towering mountains to sweeping coastal scenery and world-class safaris, South Africa truly offers something for everyone,' Maritz said. Tourists can check out Cape Town — the oldest and perhaps most well-known urban city in the country — or drive the Garden Route, an ocean-hugging highway stretching from Mossel Bay to the Storms River that showcases the best of South Africa's beauty and hospitality. Then, of course, there's Kruger National Park, South Africa's most famous game reserve, offering multiday, once-in-a-lifetime safaris. With its diverse ecosystems, South Africa offers opportunities to support local businesses and communities, as well as the option to unplug and digitally detox — all things some millennials crave. Per Maritz, a 14-day tour (with lodging included) can begin around $2,170 per person. 'Mexico City has transformed into a dynamic cultural hub with world-class museums, vibrant street art and one of the most exciting food scenes in the world,' said Alex Alioto, founder and head of growth and partnerships at Whimstay. A spot Condé Nast Traveler once called 'the tastiest destination in North America,' Mexico City offers everything from fine dining establishments to sizzling street tacos and churro shops with lines around the block. Tourists can visit Monumento a la Revolución (commemorating the Mexican Revolution) and Mercado Jamaica (Mexico City's principal flower market), or they can take an Uber ride outside the city to catch a Teotihuacan hot air balloon tour. In Mexico City, both ancient and modern cultures fuse to create lively and colorful experiences at affordable prices. Per Alioto, accommodations run between $70 and $150 per night for everything from hostels to boutique hotels, and daily expenses usually run between $40 and $70 per day. He estimated the average cost of a seven-day trip to be between $1,800 and $2,600 per person. 'Greece is always a good idea for millennial travelers,' Maritz said. 'A visit to the Greek capital and its most celebrated islands perfectly combines ancient culture with Instagrammable scenery and vibrant nightlife!' Not only is Athens, Greece, a budget-friendly city full of cultural and historical wonders like the Acropolis and Parthenon, there are many Greek islands to explore too, like Mykonos and Santorini. Per Maritz, a seven-day tour of Athens, Mykonos and Santorini (factoring in lodging and travel between islands) can begin around $1,975 per person. What millennial travel guide would be complete without the city of Portland, Oregon? Embracing sustainability, creative expression and endless Fred Armisen references, 'Portland offers an eco-friendly urban experience with excellent public transportation, an incredible food and craft beer scene, and proximity to stunning natural attractions,' Alioto said. The city also contains the world's largest independent bookstore and a bridge specifically reserved for bicyclists. Per Alioto, accommodations run between $120 and $180 per night and daily expenses usually run between $60 and $90 per day. He estimated the average cost of a seven-day trip to be between $1,800 and $2,600 per person. More From GOBankingRates Warren Buffett: 10 Things Poor People Waste Money On This article originally appeared on I'm a Travel Expert: 5 Top Travel Destinations for Millennials Worth the Money in 2025
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Yahoo
Expat Explore Shares its Top Summer Travel Trends as Interest in Personalized Group Tours Takes Off
LONDON, May 12, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As summer travel heats up, Expat Explore, one of the world's leading group tour operators, is noticing a distinct shift in traveler preferences. Personalization, immersive experiences, and lesser-known destinations are driving booking trends in 2025. Founded in 2005 by travel enthusiasts Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz, Expat Explore is set to celebrate 20 years of adventure this year. The company has evolved from a modest European tour operator into a global leader in curated group travel across five continents. With strong bookings already secured for 2026, the brand observes that travelers are planning further ahead and seeking experiences that extend well beyond traditional sightseeing. "Travelers aren't just ticking boxes anymore - they're after those meaningful moments that stick with you," said Jakes Maritz, co-founder of Expat Explore. "It could be catching some live Irish music in a local pub or trying Wagyu beef in Japan - people want that real connection and atmosphere. These days, it's less about getting the perfect Instagram shot and more about having a great story to tell afterward." The top-selling tours for summer 2025 reflect this trend. Expat Explore reports a surge in interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations like South Africa, the Balkans, Spain and Portugal, and Scandinavia. The 16-day Balkan Explorer, the 9-day Highlights of Spain & Portugal, and the 10-day Scandinavian Escape are among the company's most booked tours this season. Customization is Key Travelers are choosing to customize their trips with optional experiences that add depth and personality to their journey. Experiences like an "Evening in Montmartre," "Taste of Tuscany," and excursions to unique sites such as the Alhambra and the Acropolis are continuing to grow in popularity. "People still want that safety net and structure you get with a group tour," said Carl Cronje, co-founder of Expat Explore. "But they also need some breathing room - time to wander off independently, chat with locals, and follow whatever catches their eye. We're building our trips to hit that sweet spot." High Interest During Low Season Surprisingly, demand is also growing beyond peak summer. The company's newly launched Low Season tours, which depart between November and March, have experienced strong early bookings. These itineraries provide travelers with the opportunity to experience Europe with fewer crowds and more comfortable weather, all at better value. "Group travel preferences are constantly changing, and Expat Explore is structured and positioned to change with it," said Carl Cronje. "What stays the same is our passion for helping our customers discover the world, one life-changing memory at a time." As Expat Explore celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025, the company remains dedicated to making travel more accessible, enriching, and unforgettable. About Expat Explore Founded in 2005 by travel enthusiasts Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz, Expat Explore celebrates 20 years of adventure in 2025. From its modest beginnings with European tours, the company has expanded to offer expertly crafted itineraries across Europe, the UK, the USA and Canada, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Expat Explore's value-for-money coach tours are designed with both seasoned travelers and first-time explorers in mind. Each itinerary is carefully created by a passionate team of travel experts who thoughtfully balance iconic landmarks with hidden gems at each destination. For more information, visit View source version on Contacts Jason GilbrethTrevelino/KellerJgilbreth@
Business Wire
12-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Expat Explore Shares its Top Summer Travel Trends as Interest in Personalized Group Tours Takes Off
LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As summer travel heats up, Expat Explore, one of the world's leading group tour operators, is noticing a distinct shift in traveler preferences. Personalization, immersive experiences, and lesser-known destinations are driving booking trends in 2025. 'Travelers aren't just ticking boxes anymore - they're after those meaningful moments that stick with you," said Jakes Maritz, co-founder of Expat Explore. Founded in 2005 by travel enthusiasts Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz, Expat Explore is set to celebrate 20 years of adventure this year. The company has evolved from a modest European tour operator into a global leader in curated group travel across five continents. With strong bookings already secured for 2026, the brand observes that travelers are planning further ahead and seeking experiences that extend well beyond traditional sightseeing. 'Travelers aren't just ticking boxes anymore - they're after those meaningful moments that stick with you," said Jakes Maritz, co-founder of Expat Explore. "It could be catching some live Irish music in a local pub or trying Wagyu beef in Japan - people want that real connection and atmosphere. These days, it's less about getting the perfect Instagram shot and more about having a great story to tell afterward." The top-selling tours for summer 2025 reflect this trend. Expat Explore reports a surge in interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations like South Africa, the Balkans, Spain and Portugal, and Scandinavia. The 16-day Balkan Explorer, the 9-day Highlights of Spain & Portugal, and the 10-day Scandinavian Escape are among the company's most booked tours this season. Customization is Key Travelers are choosing to customize their trips with optional experiences that add depth and personality to their journey. Experiences like an 'Evening in Montmartre,' 'Taste of Tuscany,' and excursions to unique sites such as the Alhambra and the Acropolis are continuing to grow in popularity. "People still want that safety net and structure you get with a group tour," said Carl Cronje, co-founder of Expat Explore. "But they also need some breathing room - time to wander off independently, chat with locals, and follow whatever catches their eye. We're building our trips to hit that sweet spot." High Interest During Low Season Surprisingly, demand is also growing beyond peak summer. The company's newly launched Low Season tours, which depart between November and March, have experienced strong early bookings. These itineraries provide travelers with the opportunity to experience Europe with fewer crowds and more comfortable weather, all at better value. 'Group travel preferences are constantly changing, and Expat Explore is structured and positioned to change with it,' said Carl Cronje. 'What stays the same is our passion for helping our customers discover the world, one life-changing memory at a time.' As Expat Explore celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2025, the company remains dedicated to making travel more accessible, enriching, and unforgettable. About Expat Explore Founded in 2005 by travel enthusiasts Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz, Expat Explore celebrates 20 years of adventure in 2025. From its modest beginnings with European tours, the company has expanded to offer expertly crafted itineraries across Europe, the UK, the USA and Canada, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Expat Explore's value-for-money coach tours are designed with both seasoned travelers and first-time explorers in mind. Each itinerary is carefully created by a passionate team of travel experts who thoughtfully balance iconic landmarks with hidden gems at each destination. For more information, visit
Business Wire
21-04-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
TourAxis Partners with Trevelino/Keller to Boost US Brand Awareness for Expat Explore
ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Trevelino/Keller, a nationally ranked, growth-driven PR and marketing firm, today announces its partnership with leading global travel innovator TourAxis to expand the U.S. customer base of Expat Explore, a premier group tour provider. Expat Explore's tours, encompassing 50 countries across five continents, have steadily gained traction over the past 20 years, elevating the brand to a position of international market leadership in group travel. Trevelino/Keller will support Expat Explore with a comprehensive PR strategy that includes media relations, influencer partnerships, and content development. Expat Explore is the brainchild of best friends, lifelong wanderers, and astute business partners Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz. They met as South African expats in London and devised a business plan to transform their passion for travel into careers, launching Expat Explore in 2005. The first tours were weekend trips to Paris, with Cronje and Maritz acting as tour leaders. Over the two decades since, Expat Explore has grown to offer more than 80 tours ranging from six to 26 days across Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America. In 2024, over 20,000 travelers selected Expat Explore for their international vacations. 'From the beginning, our goal has been to help people see the world because travel is a transformative experience. But with rising expenses and the stress of planning, many people hesitate to book their trips,' says Carl Cronje, co-founder and CEO of Expat Explore and TourAxis. 'A group coach tour is the perfect solution, as it takes away that sense of overwhelm. Travelers with Expat Explore enjoy unforgettable, immersive tours led by expert tour leaders. Schedules are packed and provide exceptional value for money. It genuinely is a way to enjoy international travel easily.' Expat Explore stands apart in the travel industry with its commitment to making international travel accessible and convenient. Travelers can secure their spot on any tour with just a 10% deposit and spread the remaining payments out with interest-free monthly installments. They also benefit from a 10-day money-back guarantee and flexible booking policy, and there are no extra fees for solo travelers. Perhaps more importantly, all Expat Explore travelers gain exceptional value through group travel dynamics and local expertise. Each tour is unique, customized to the countries it traverses and the highlights of each destination. While some tours feature mid-tour flights and scenic riverboat cruises, the main mode of transportation is a coach bus, enabling travelers to experience iconic cities and landmarks, as well as towns and natural wonders off the beaten path. Every tour is led by an experienced Tour Leader with extensive knowledge of each destination's history, food, and culture–trained to handle any challenges to ensure a stress-free trip for all travelers. 'Our travelers come from all ages, countries, and walks of life: solo adventurers and groups of friends, teenagers and grandparents, first-timers and seasoned explorers. What unites each Expat Explore traveler, along with everyone at our company, is the passion for exploration and creating memories that last a lifetime,' says Jakes Maritz, co-founder of Expat Explore and TourAxis. 'We're thrilled to expand our presence in the U.S. and welcome more Americans on our tours around the globe.' 2025 is a milestone year for Expat Explore. As the company celebrates its 20th anniversary, it continues to innovate with exciting new itineraries across Scandinavia & the Baltics, the Balkans & Greek Islands, Latin America, and Japan. Additionally, the founders have launched TourCademy, a specialized training program for aspiring tour leaders who wish to transform their passion for travel into a rewarding career. 'Expat Explore has all the ingredients necessary for success in the U.S. travel market: an exciting product, great value for customers, and a track record of excellence,' shares Genna Keller, principal at Trevelino/Keller. 'Americans' appetite for international travel has grown, and consumers are seeking authenticity reflected in the founders' story and genuine passion for travel. Our team looks forward to supporting Expat Explore through thoughtful campaigns that highlight its enthusiastic spirit and present American consumers with the perfect solution to their wanderlust.' About Expat Explore Founded in 2005 by travel enthusiasts Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz, Expat Explore celebrates 20 years of adventure in 2025. From its modest beginnings with European tours, the company has expanded to offer expertly crafted itineraries across Europe, the UK, the USA and Canada, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Expat Explore's value-for-money coach tours are designed with both seasoned travelers and first-time explorers in mind. Each itinerary is carefully created by a passionate team of travel experts who thoughtfully balance iconic landmarks with hidden gems at each destination. For more information, visit About TourAxis TourAxis, the leading travel innovator and creator of transformative travel brands such as Expat Explore, Group Tour Shop, PlugPlug, TourCademy, and RailRocker, enriches the lives of thousands each year by igniting their passion for experiencing the world together. The London-based company designs unforgettable travel experiences, connects people to dream destinations, and supports the next generation of travel professionals. To learn more, visit About Trevelino/Keller Trevelino/Keller is an Integrated PR+Mkt+Creative firm delivering award-winning brand, go to market and accelerated growth programming. In 2024, it acquired Marsden Marketing, a nationally recognized growth marketing firm, as part of its growth marketing expansion which features HubSpot Platinum Partner Status. Its vertical market B2B depth is acknowledged by its national ranking in 12 industry segments led by technology, healthcare, financial services, transportation, manufacturing, energy and franchising. Recognized as one of the 29 best firms to work for in North America, it continues to own the country's #1 talent retention. For more information,
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
TourAxis Partners with Trevelino/Keller to Boost US Brand Awareness for Expat Explore
The firm will support a leading international group tour brand through a comprehensive PR-driven approach. ATLANTA, April 21, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Trevelino/Keller, a nationally ranked, growth-driven PR and marketing firm, today announces its partnership with leading global travel innovator TourAxis to expand the U.S. customer base of Expat Explore, a premier group tour provider. Expat Explore's tours, encompassing 50 countries across five continents, have steadily gained traction over the past 20 years, elevating the brand to a position of international market leadership in group travel. Trevelino/Keller will support Expat Explore with a comprehensive PR strategy that includes media relations, influencer partnerships, and content development. Expat Explore is the brainchild of best friends, lifelong wanderers, and astute business partners Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz. They met as South African expats in London and devised a business plan to transform their passion for travel into careers, launching Expat Explore in 2005. The first tours were weekend trips to Paris, with Cronje and Maritz acting as tour leaders. Over the two decades since, Expat Explore has grown to offer more than 80 tours ranging from six to 26 days across Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America. In 2024, over 20,000 travelers selected Expat Explore for their international vacations. "From the beginning, our goal has been to help people see the world because travel is a transformative experience. But with rising expenses and the stress of planning, many people hesitate to book their trips," says Carl Cronje, co-founder and CEO of Expat Explore and TourAxis. "A group coach tour is the perfect solution, as it takes away that sense of overwhelm. Travelers with Expat Explore enjoy unforgettable, immersive tours led by expert tour leaders. Schedules are packed and provide exceptional value for money. It genuinely is a way to enjoy international travel easily." Expat Explore stands apart in the travel industry with its commitment to making international travel accessible and convenient. Travelers can secure their spot on any tour with just a 10% deposit and spread the remaining payments out with interest-free monthly installments. They also benefit from a 10-day money-back guarantee and flexible booking policy, and there are no extra fees for solo travelers. Perhaps more importantly, all Expat Explore travelers gain exceptional value through group travel dynamics and local expertise. Each tour is unique, customized to the countries it traverses and the highlights of each destination. While some tours feature mid-tour flights and scenic riverboat cruises, the main mode of transportation is a coach bus, enabling travelers to experience iconic cities and landmarks, as well as towns and natural wonders off the beaten path. Every tour is led by an experienced Tour Leader with extensive knowledge of each destination's history, food, and culture–trained to handle any challenges to ensure a stress-free trip for all travelers. "Our travelers come from all ages, countries, and walks of life: solo adventurers and groups of friends, teenagers and grandparents, first-timers and seasoned explorers. What unites each Expat Explore traveler, along with everyone at our company, is the passion for exploration and creating memories that last a lifetime," says Jakes Maritz, co-founder of Expat Explore and TourAxis. "We're thrilled to expand our presence in the U.S. and welcome more Americans on our tours around the globe." 2025 is a milestone year for Expat Explore. As the company celebrates its 20th anniversary, it continues to innovate with exciting new itineraries across Scandinavia & the Baltics, the Balkans & Greek Islands, Latin America, and Japan. Additionally, the founders have launched TourCademy, a specialized training program for aspiring tour leaders who wish to transform their passion for travel into a rewarding career. "Expat Explore has all the ingredients necessary for success in the U.S. travel market: an exciting product, great value for customers, and a track record of excellence," shares Genna Keller, principal at Trevelino/Keller. "Americans' appetite for international travel has grown, and consumers are seeking authenticity reflected in the founders' story and genuine passion for travel. Our team looks forward to supporting Expat Explore through thoughtful campaigns that highlight its enthusiastic spirit and present American consumers with the perfect solution to their wanderlust." About Expat Explore Founded in 2005 by travel enthusiasts Carl Cronje and Jakes Maritz, Expat Explore celebrates 20 years of adventure in 2025. From its modest beginnings with European tours, the company has expanded to offer expertly crafted itineraries across Europe, the UK, the USA and Canada, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Expat Explore's value-for-money coach tours are designed with both seasoned travelers and first-time explorers in mind. Each itinerary is carefully created by a passionate team of travel experts who thoughtfully balance iconic landmarks with hidden gems at each destination. For more information, visit About TourAxis TourAxis, the leading travel innovator and creator of transformative travel brands such as Expat Explore, Group Tour Shop, PlugPlug, TourCademy, and RailRocker, enriches the lives of thousands each year by igniting their passion for experiencing the world together. The London-based company designs unforgettable travel experiences, connects people to dream destinations, and supports the next generation of travel professionals. To learn more, visit About Trevelino/Keller Trevelino/Keller is an Integrated PR+Mkt+Creative firm delivering award-winning brand, go to market and accelerated growth programming. In 2024, it acquired Marsden Marketing, a nationally recognized growth marketing firm, as part of its growth marketing expansion which features HubSpot Platinum Partner Status. Its vertical market B2B depth is acknowledged by its national ranking in 12 industry segments led by technology, healthcare, financial services, transportation, manufacturing, energy and franchising. Recognized as one of the 29 best firms to work for in North America, it continues to own the country's #1 talent retention. For more information, View source version on Contacts Emily Rioserios@ Sign in to access your portfolio
