Are you missing planned getaways with friends and family; discovering new destinations; tasting new cuisines and drinking in new experiences across the globe? I am. The good news? Maybe we can still take some of those trips and still social distance while staying safe.
How about a small group escorted tour?
One of the fastest growing trends in touring is small group itineraries. While small group touring is not a new concept, it has recently caught on with travelers who are looking for a more intimate experience with local cultures and lifestyles; they want to be more of a traveler instead of a tourist. While small group tours still offer you visits to iconic landmarks, it's the other things that really count. Imagine dining at a local's own home for an authentic dinner or getting away from the long lines and large groups of other tourists to see what locals see and do what locals do. Perhaps you're an adventuring type and you're on a small group adventure tour, hiking and camping with only a few others. These are the small group differences you will not be able to get on a more traditional tour group. Small groups range from 12-26 people for a more personal, enriching experience.
Interested in a small group tour?
Globus & Cosmos has something new this year: Small group Discovery tours. 2021 departures through Central and South America, Asia and Africa will have an average of 20 like minded travelers on them. Some South Pacific Tours will as well. Did you know if you gather a group of friends or family you may be eligible for a discount on one of these tours? Now is the time to round up everyone to plan for next year!
GREAT HOTELS AND PLACES FOR SOCIAL DISTANCING
Eastwind, NY
This Scandinavian-inspired retreat features 16 spacious guest rooms and suites, three private tiny cabin glamping units (Lushnas), and one brand-new, one-bedroom Lushna Suite. Eastwind Hotel & Bar is located in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, about two-and-a-half hours by car from NYC.
Blackberry Farm, TN
Situated across 4,200 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Farm offers 68 luxury accommodations, which include fully furnished guest rooms, suites, private cottages, and multi-bedroom homes. Guests also enjoy private access to an additional 5,000 acres of wilderness.
Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur
This adults-only, wellness-centric property boasts 39 rooms (plus two private homes) across 1,500 picturesque acres. Plus, some accommodations are even equipped with private clifftop pools. Amenities include daily breakfast, fully stocked minibar, and complimentary activities like yoga, guided hikes, and stargazing.
Horse Shoe Farm, NC
Asheville's Horse Shoe Farm features eight spacious homes spread across 85 acres. The property accommodates just 50 guests at a time, so you'll have plenty of space to social distance. (And, if you have enough people, you can rent out the entire property.) There's also an on-site watering hole and pond, a sound bath, a labyrinth, a restaurant, and a spa housed in a former horse stable.
Twin Farms, VT
Twin Farms is spread across 300-plus acres of meadow lands and overlooks the Green Mountains. Plus, it's nearly impossible to be bored here -- that is, unless you want to be. Popular on-site activities include swimming, boccie ball, croquet, and biking.
Montage Palmetto Bluff, SC
Experience southern hospitality at its finest at the Montage Palmetto Bluff, which spans a whopping 20,000 acres of protected forest, meadow, and marsh. Consider splurging on a River View Cottage Suite, which has fireplaces and over-sized porches. You can also opt to rent one of the property's spacious cottages and homes.
Ocean House, RI
This Rhode Island hideaway is best known for its bright yellow facade and Victorian-inspired architecture. The beachfront property offers 49 spacious guest rooms, 20 suites (each equipped with full kitchens, private terraces, and Jacuzzi tubs), and luxe private cottages, which are more like sprawling homes.
The Point Resort, NY
This secluded Upstate NY oasis was originally built by the Rockefeller family. Today, the lakefront property boasts an impressive array of antiques and paintings that date back to the 19th century. The property's spacious and inviting accommodations span four buildings across 75 acres, so you have plenty of room to lounge out and take in the picturesque surroundings.
Four Seasons Jackson Hole, WY
Unwind and connect with nature at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences, Jackson Hole. Here, adventure is endless, from mountain biking and rafting to wildlife spotting and hiking -- and there's even an in-house fly-fishing expert and astronomer. Each guest room is equipped with furnished private balconies, an outdoor seating area, and fireplaces. Alternatively, stay in one of the property's spacious Private Retreats. Complimentary amenities include smores, yoga, and wifi; guided wildlife safaris (additional cost) are also available year-round.
The Resort at Paws Up, MT
The Resort at Paws Up features more than 100 miles of scenic trails and luxury accommodations, which range from private homes, tree houses, and luxury glamping tents. Popular on-site activities include horseback riding, fly fishing, archery, canoeing, and even crow croquet.
Jekyll Island Club Resort, GA
The historic Jekyll Island Club Resort is the perfect place to get away from it all. It's actually comprised of two properties: The Jekyll Island Club and the all-suite Jekyll Ocean Club. Accommodations range from over-sized guest rooms to oceanfront suites, to charming cottages. The property is also taking precautions to keep guests safe (think extra space between lounge chairs, plenty of space to spread out on the beach, and constant disinfecting).
Amangiri, UT
This exclusive, 6,000-acre Utah resort features an array of accommodations to choose from, including tented camps, uber-luxe suites, and expansive private homes. The secluded property is best known for its truly stunning swimming pool, which is built around a 165-million-year-old rock.
Inn at Death Valley, CA
Located in Death Valley National Park, this historic hideaway has hosted famous guests like Marlon Brando and Clark Gable. Today, you can relax and unwind in one of the property's spacious 66 guest rooms, suites, or pool bungalows. If you're craving even more space, stay in one of the 22 casitas -- each of which comes with a private golf cart, a living room, and a bar.
Sunrise Springs, NM
Sunrise Springs spans 70 lush acres. The resort features 20 Southwestern-style casitas, each of which is outfitted with a gas fireplace and king bed. Popular activities include soaking in one of the spring-fed pools, hiking, and hatchet-throwing.
Let me know which of these spark an interest in you. I am happy to get you prices for any of these. Diana's Destinations can help with your driving trips by securing your hotels at refundable rates or by helping you purchase insurance that will cover you.
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