How important are travel advisors to Explore Worldwide? “Travel advisors have been instrumental in everything that we do at Explore,” says Explore’s Marketing Manager, Caitlin Overend, in this edition of Take 5.

1. Many Canadians are all about the warm weather getaways in the winter months, however more and more are seeking out ‘cool-cations’ at other times of the year, to destinations with cooler temps. What new cool-cation itineraries does Explore Worldwide offer?

“We’ve certainly noticed a trend towards Canadians looking to book ‘cool-cations’ over the last year, and are thrilled to expand our selection of destinations with cooler climates that are perfect any time of the year. 

“New for 2025, we’ve introduced three European walking and hiking tours designed for travellers looking to enjoy natural, rugged beauty in a more temperate setting. Our new walking tour of Northern Ireland and Donegal combines scenic hiking trails with authentic Irish experiences, from whiskey tasting to a sheepdog demonstration, while the new Walking in the Faroe Islands, includes the breathtaking landscapes of six Faroese islands. For those who want to mix Nordic capital cities with rocky shorelines, we’ve got our new Walking in Finland and Sweden trip.” 

2. Another emerging travel trend is the ‘mid-career gap year’. Most people think of gap year as a travel break for people in their late teens and early 20s, however it’s a concept that’s catching on with mid-life travellers too. How is Explore Worldwide catering to this market?

“Recognizing the increasing popularity of mid-career gap years, we’re working with travellers to maximize their time abroad. For some, it means taking back-to-back trips like a three-week adventure that combines the Baltic States with Slovenia’s Alpine Lakes or the Amalfi Coast’s blissful walking trails with the Greek Islands. Our team is always on hand to help find departure dates that line up for the ultimate break.

“Another popular option for mid-life travellers looking to get out of the office for an extended period is country combo trips. Our Five Stans of the Silk Road is a 21-day cultural deep dive along this ancient route taking travellers through all five countries without having to worry about any of the logistics. It’s designed to provide enriching, life-changing experiences that resonate with professionals in their prime.”

3. In 2024 Explore Worldwide launched its Upgraded Collection. What can you tell us about it?

“More and more travellers are searching for budget-luxury options which offer adventure and excitement with an enhanced level of comfort and style. That’s where our new collection comes in. Explore Upgraded is everything you know and love about an Explore trip – small groups, expert tour leader, unforgettable experiences with a light footprint – with upgraded stays to offer that little extra comfort at the end of a long day of exploring.

“Anyone looking for an extra special experience in 2025 might consider the Upgraded Botswana Wildlife Safari, which includes premium lodges for the best game viewing and a private sunset cruise on the Zambezi or Upgraded Treasures of Georgia and Armenia where you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey that straddles two continents with nights spent overlooking the Georgian Mountains in historic wine estates and spas.”

4. What are some of the most unusual / off-the-beaten-track destinations in the portfolio for 2025? 

“At our core, all of us at Explore are adventurers, much like our travellers. We’re constantly seeking to expand our portfolio with destinations that are far from the typical tourist paths as well as new takes on classic trips. We’ve seen an increasing number of people looking to visit more esoteric destinations over the last year and are excited to introduce trips to new (to us) countries like South Korea and Ghana. On the Best of Ghana tour, you’ll meet village chiefs and learn about the powerful Ashanti Kingdom in Kumasi.

“For those who are a little shorter on time but are still looking for a big adventure, we’ve just launched an abbreviated Three Stans of the Silk Road, which guides you through the iconic wonders of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.” 

5. How important are travel advisors to Explore Worldwide and why is it worth it for agents to work with the company?

“Travel advisors have been instrumental in everything that we do at Explore. Working with an advisor ensures that our clients receive personalized advice and support throughout their booking process and travel experience.

“We are always looking for new ways to thank and support our agent partners, which is why we’ve recently launched our new Book Five, Get One Free incentive! When you make five bookings between now and June 30 you’ll get a free trip for yourself, plus a 25% discount for your traveling companion. It’s our way of saying thank you for your continued support, while sharing the magic of an Explore tour.

“Get in touch with our team at tripinfo@exploreworldwide.com to learn more!” 

For more information see ExploreWorldwide.ca.