TORONTO — G Adventures has launched its 2018 collection of Classic trips, featuring 34 new itineraries including tours to Oman and Hawaii. This is the first time G Adventures has offered tours to both destinations.

The company says it has seen increased demand for trips to the Middle East, citing 36% year-over-year growth in bookings.

Sofia Montezo, Middle East Product Manager, G Adventures, says Oman is an “excellent option” for those who have never travelled to the Middle East, and for those who have already explored other countries in the region.

“Oman is one of the best kept secrets in this part of the world and is often described as ‘the Switzerland of the Middle East’ because of its independence. It’s a beautiful mix of ancient history and modern living.”

G Adventures is also expanding its U.S. lineup with new tours to Hawaii. The operator’s first-ever Hawaii program explores The Big Island, Maui, Oahu and Kauai, and is ideal for clients “looking for a more adventurous and cultural experience beyond big bus tours and resort vacations”.

“For years our travellers have been asking for trips to Hawaii. We’re incredibly excited to introduce the new program and show travellers another side of Hawaii,” says Scott Fuller, North America Product Coordinator, G Adventures.

G Adventures now has nearly 300 Classic trips, all striking what the company says is the perfect balance between must-see highlights, cultural exchange, insider access and value.

All trips are available to view online at gadventures.com and will be featured in the company’s new ‘World’s Greatest Small Group Experiences’ brochure available later this year.

New Classic itineraries include:

• Highlights of Oman: Explore Muscat with visits to the Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair Museum and historic souk in Muttrah. Overnight in the dramatic Wahiba Sands desert after visiting the Ras al Jinz Turtle Reserve to observe the endangered species’ nesting process. Visit Wadi Nakhr, also known as the Grand Canyon of Oman. Priced from $2,799 per person for an eight-day trip from Muscat return with departures from September to December 2018.
• Hawaii Adventure – Oahu & Kauai: Discover the rugged coastline and colossal cliffs of Na Pali State Park, set sail into the setting sun along Waikiki Beach, savour pineapple at the Dole Plantation and visit the Kualoa Ranch Nature Reserve where over 50 movies were filmed including Jurassic Park and Godzilla. Kauai is a nature lover’s dream with mountains that crash into the sea, waterfalls, red-rock canyons and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Priced from $2,599 per person for an eight-day trip from Waikiki to Kapa’a with departures from July to December 2018.
• Highlights of Portugal: The hilly streets of coastal Lisbon are highlighted by sun-dappled architecture and an evening fado performance and traditional Portuguese dinner. Soak up the history and culture at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Batalha Monastery, Coimbra University, and the picturesque town of Sintra. Sample port wine and visit cellars in Porto. Priced from $1,399 per person for a seven-day trip from Lisbon to Porto with departures from April to December 2018.
• Discover Ethiopia: Participants can learn about the different traditions and cultures of the Amhara region, and try their hand at traditional Ethiopian Injera (bread) making. Spend a day in Simien Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in guided hiking excursions around Sankaber campsite and the Jinbar waterfalls. Visit the Rock Churches of Lalibela and visit monasteries in Bahir Dar including Ura Kidane Mehret and Azwa Maryam. Priced from $2,899 per person for a 10-day trip from Addis Ababa return with departures from June to December 2018.