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Hands down the BEST travel company for Africa!!!!…

STOP researching the best travel companies for your next vacation and hire Kyle and Leah NOW! My now husband and I have had the luxury of traveling around the world but we were very overwhelmed by all the options for Africa. Hiring Kyle and Leah to help with our plans to South Africa, Kenya, and Seychelles was the BEST decision we made! They really listened to our likes and interests and tailed a perfect itinerary full of unique experiences we would have never been able to plan ourselves. They have wonderful connections on the ground in Africa and make sure every detail is sorted out so you can relax and enjoy your vacation. Some of our favorite experiences - a private picnic on the cliff overlooking the entire safari landscape, private photography class so we could take gorgeous pictures of the animals, beading class with the women in Maasai Mara, sunrise hike in Cape Town, visits to the local villages and sundowners where you were able to interact with the locals and learn more about their culture. They also helped my husband plan the most special proposal in Kenya at sunrise. We can’t stop singing their praises and have several friends who have hired them as well for their African trips. We plan to use them for all of our trips to Africa moving forward!!! STOP looking at other tour operators… Kyle and Leah are the best!!!!!

Date of experience : December 08, 2023

Outstanding Rwanda trip

We recently returned from an unforgettable trip to Rwanda, thanks to the extraordinary excellence of Ubuntu Travel. Every detail was carefully thought through - the magnificent lodges we stayed at, our gorilla trekking guides, the recommended restaurants, the seamless transport between places and much more. Ubuntu Travel created an eight-day Rwandan experience that will linger in our minds and hearts for a long time. Thank you, Kyle and team!

Date of experience : May 13, 2020

Choosing Ubuntu Travel was the BEST Decision

Choosing Ubuntu Travel was the BEST decision we made! We were overwhelmed with the idea of deciding where and when to head to Africa with our 2 children. Enter Ubuntu Travel, they listened, dialogued with us, gave suggestions and put together our trip of a lifetime! We chose, per their recommendation, to visit South Africa for our first visit and it was epic. We spent time in Cape Town, the Winelands and on Safari. Every detail was thought through with our family of 4 in mind, each transfer, guide, accomodation, meal, excursion, and game drive. It was our favorite family vacation EVER and we cannot wait to go back! Leah and Kyle truly are pros at taylor-making trips to Africa and beyond.

Date of experience : April 27, 2020

Many positives!!!

Many positives!!! 1) Every booking of accommodations were checked out and most definitely first class. 2) The guides and professionals hired in ensuring our trip were and are first class. 3) Owners Kyle and Leah checked in daily for input of the experience that day, always looking for feedback. 4) Ubuntu knows Africa. It would be impossible to book the wonderful experiences we experienced on our own.

Date of experience : May 19, 2020

A dream come true

Ubuntu Travel helped us plan a perfect, safe trip during the pandemic, to Tanzania. The service and hospitality was out of this world. Because of that, we didn’t just feel welcome, we felt at home. Ubuntu Travel helped to find the perfect locations, from an amazing luxurious tented camp where we slept under the stars and got woken up by a giraffe, to a beautiful modern hotel at Zanzibar and a private island with amazing reefs for diving called Mnemba. To top it off, Ubuntu Travel helped to plan our surprise wedding proposal on the beach of Zanzibar (she said yes!). We could not ask for more. This whole trip has been a dream come true and we can’t wait to go back to Africa, ofcourse, via Ubuntu Travel again!

Date of experience : March 31, 2021

A honeymoon that exceeded our expectations

Ubuntu did an unparalleled job planning our honeymoon in East Africa. We had always wanted to visit Tanzania and Kenya but had no idea where to start in the planning process. They put together the perfect itinerary and were even able to fit in our request to hike Kilimanjaro. Ubuntu took our high level "want list" and curated a selection of lodges and activities that were so well matched with our personalities and interests...and this was complete within a couple weeks of our initial outreach. Responses to our questions pre- and during the trip were prompt and efficient. We are forever grateful to Ubuntu for planning such a magical experience and can't wait to book with them again.

Date of experience : September 24, 2021

Exceeded our expectations-

I can’t say enough great things about Kyle, Jenna, and everyone at Ubuntu Travel. They worked with us to create the perfect itinerary. When Covid threw us a curve ball, they came to the rescue and helped us rebook and even add another location without a hitch. Every camp exceeded our expectation. The guides were fantastic- so knowledgeable and great with our children. Every detail was taken care of and I truly trusted Ubuntu to make the best choices for us and they did. I would definitely use them again and I am referring all our friends to them as well.

Date of experience : August 17, 2021

For a trip of life time, use the best Ubuntu Travel…

My 27 year old son and I traveled to South Africa in late May, early June 2021. We used Ubuntu travel to arrange our on the ground experiences in Johannesburg and Cape Town. The company provided guides who drove us around the cities. This personalized experience significantly enhanced the quality of our visit. Not only did we feel safe, but the guides met our every request. My son is a photographer and had certain locations he wanted to see that would not be on a normal tour. We were able to go to every location he requested. In addition, we had trouble with flights being cancelled and questions about Covid. Leah and her team either called us or emailed us personally to ensure we had the best on the ground experience possible. I recommend Ubuntu Travel highly.

Date of experience : June 23, 2021

Gorilla trekking

Working with Ubuntu Travel for our bucket list trip in Africa was an absolute pleasure. Kyle and Jenna were very diligent putting together the perfect itinerary for our group and the trip far exceeded our expectations. We were able to enjoy our vacation, knowing that every detail was handled for us. Thank you Ubuntu Travel for helping us see the mountain gorillas in Rwanda and for helping us to create countless memories!

Date of experience : May 11, 2020

Absolute Best trip ever

Our trip exceeded all of our expectations from the luxury accommodations, personal service, incredible food, and such exciting safaris. Ubuntu travel planned every detail and it couldn’t have been better. I tell everyone to not even consider another company. Our whole family is dying to go again. Honestly ( and we travel a lot) it was the BEST trip ever!! Im

Date of experience : May 02, 2019

We used Ubuntu for our Honeymoon and…

We used Ubuntu for our Honeymoon and could not have been more pleased. They took care of everything and made us not have to think about all the ins and outs of traveling all over South Africa, allowing us to enjoy our trip. The facilities at the Ngala and Phinda were phenomenal. Would and have recommended to everyone!!

Date of experience : January 23, 2020

Cape Town to Safari trip

We had an amazing experience with Jenna, Kyle, and Leah at Ubuntu travel. We had a lot of hiccups trying to schedule our travel due to the pandemic, and the Ubuntu team was extremely helpful in working with us and the venues in South Africa to accommodate our needs. We would have been overwhelmed trying to choose between the many options for vacation in South Africa, and the Ubuntu team set us up with amazing lodging, tours, and a Safari Loge that was like a dream- all for a super reasonable price. Working with Ubuntu really took the stress out of planning such an extensive trip and was 100% worth it. We traveled between Cape Town and Safari seamlessly, and Ubuntu took care of all of our Covid testing needs on our way out of South Africa.

Date of experience : October 19, 2021

Leah and Kyle did an amazing job by…

Leah and Kyle did an amazing job by presenting our itinerary as well as implementing it. The transfers, hotels, guides, and locations were as expected from their informative presentation. We can say that this was a trip of a lifetime with luxury. We were definitely so grateful for the impeccable service and luxury that was provided in each activity and places to stay. Thank you Le ah and Kyle!!!

Date of experience : July 31, 2019

Dear Leah and Jenna I want to give you…

Dear Leah and Jenna I want to give you both more stars! Never has traveling been so stress free. I was always attend to always some one to pickle me up or waiting for me. My Big Fat Birthday was perfect. Reservation at such memorable places. My guide in Cape Town was knowledgeable can"t forget baboons and ostriches on the beach!. The bush camps where AMAZING! Life changing for me. The people I met I will never forget. Im doing my house over with a African Art vibe. You exceeded expectations.For me, Im not going any place with out you both. Thank you Ubuntu Kathleen

Date of experience : June 28, 2021

Dream vacation

We had the most incredible trip to Kenya that was organized by Kyle and Jenna at Ubuntu travel. Everything from beginning to end was seamless. We started off our trip at Giraffe Manor which had been on our bucket list forever and it totally lived up to expectations. The accommodation, food and service were impeccable. The experience with the giraffes was incredible. My adult kids cannot stop talking about how special that experience was. We then moved on to the Masai Mara where we spent two days at Sanctuary Olanana and three days at Andbeyond Bateleur. Both camps in every way were amazing. Traveling during COVID could be challenging but Ubuntu travel were so thorough in their planning that our trip went off without a hitch. I would highly recommend Ubuntu travel for travel to Africa, and am so thankful that I used them to create for my family and I a Dream vacation.

Date of experience : October 02, 2021

Memorable Botswana Trip

Still cannot believe we made it to Okavango Delta this year! We decided a month before our trip after pending it for a year. We stayed in stunning and cozy Belmond Eagle Island lodge and the water level was high during our stay, so we could do safari boat and mokoro. Many animals around the lodges as well, so beside the game drives, we could enjoy the safari feeling around the lodge. Okavango Delta is definitely one of the best trips we have ever had. Thank you Ubuntu Travel Team for making our trip more memorable! For only a month plan, you make it possible.

Date of experience : June 24, 2021

So thankful we went with Ubuntu!

We are so happy that we went with Ubuntu Travel for our honeymoon! Pre-Covid, we had planned a honeymoon on our own after months of research. When Covid hit and everything had to be rescheduled and pushed back a year, Ubuntu saved our butts! They were so thoughtful in helping us revise and replan our trip, and looking back we realize they made it so much better than our original version, highlighting pros and cons of our previous plans based on their expertise. Upon arrival, there was not only a guide but a wonderful welcome gift with our own itinerary and guide. We did not have to worry about a thing the whole trip, and they even held our hand in setting us up with convenient Covid PCR testing, etc. We loved all the hotels and lodges that they recommended - they had excellent taste and we will definitely use Ubuntu again for our next trip to Africa.

Date of experience : January 25, 2022

Trip of a Lifetime!

Trip of a Lifetime! Kyle and Leah at Ubuntu Travel curated my wife's and my Honeymoon. We put a lot of faith in their hands as we had no idea how to plan a Safari vacation. We gave them a budget, and they offered us a couple of different options that could work. Throughout the decision making process they were responsive, professional, and so helpful. We ended up on doing a week in and arond Capetown followed by Safari at Ngala in South Africa and the Okavango Delta in Botswana. It was perfect; the logistics of the trip were seamless. We wouldn't have changed a single thing. The Ubuntu team completely understood what we wanted for honeymoon and delivered. We have already recommended them to friends and family who are looking to try their first or second or third safari. Thanks Ubuntu!

Date of experience : May 05, 2019

A great entry-level trip for animal conservation

I had such an incredible time on my visit to Phinda Private Game Reserve with Ubuntu! Some of my highlights included a pre-trip packing list, advice for what to expect in this part of South Africa and even some Ubuntu merch to wear on my trip! It was an unforgettable week on the Phinda Trip and if you are interested in animal conservation, this is a great entry-level safari for anyone interested in finding more purpose in their travels. We spent the week learning about animal conservation and the highlight was of course dehorning a rhino to help protect them from poaching. It was truly the trip of a lifetime.

Date of experience : December 14, 2020

Honeymoon of a lifetime.

It was such a pleasure working with Kyle, Jenna and Leah from Ubuntu travel to plan our honeymoon. We had an idea of what areas we thought we wanted to visit and they really brought everything to life and with perfect detail and communication. They were timely with responses and help sort out last minute shifts due travel restrictions. We could not have planned anything like this without their help and I'm so happy we decided to work with them. I will highly recommend them to anyone who tells me they're looking to visit Africa. Ubuntu team - thank you for helping the trip of our dreams come true. We're forever grateful for the memories and hope to visit Africa again someday!

Date of experience : September 09, 2021

Africa is Waiting…

At Ubuntu Travel, we care about your whole journey. From the moment you speak to our Travel Specialists to your return back home, we are dedicated to making every detail of your safari in Africa absolutely flawless. 

We focus on combining breathtaking wildlife experiences with luxury accommodations, exclusive tours and authentic interactions that will compliment your interests, creating unforgettable and treasured memories. 

Through conservation and social development initiatives, your uniquely designed luxury safari will help to positively impact the destinations you visit; both for the wildlife and the local communities who live in and around these last remaining wilderness areas.

If you’re planning your first visit to Africa, or your fifth, we’ll create the trip of a lifetime for you and your loved ones. Allow us to dream up your next adventure, so you may find yourself surrounded by the splendor of Africa in the months to come.

Why Ubuntu Travel?

Bespoke Itineraries

We design adventures from the ground up around your goals and needs so you can experience Africa just as you’ve always dreamed.

Unique Experiences

With deep roots in Africa, we offer exclusive, unique opportunities to get involved with conservation efforts and immerse yourself within unfamiliar cultures.

Responsible Travel

We partner with local communities throughout Africa to take every measure necessary to ensure we affect positive change and enrich lives throughout every journey.

Destinations to Explore

South Africa

• Turning the Tide on Ocean-Bound Plastics

• How long does it take to travel to Africa from the US?

• Unlocking Africa’s Majesty: Meet the Big Five Safari Icons

Testimonials

Leah worked with us for over a month building the perfect 2 week honeymoon for us. She helped us decide on what area/countries of Africa were best for what we were looking for. Then, based on our budget, wish list of activities, and dates she gave us options on accommodations, schedules and activities and constantly reworked the itinerary until we were ecstatic about it. They respond very quickly to any email, call or whatsapp and were always there to answer our questions. They helped us with travel documents, covid tests, and airline flights. They even sent us Ubuntu Travel luggage that was perfect for the bush planes luggage requirements. Once we were in Africa, we never worried about anything at all - there was always a private car transfer, private guide, or someone to escort us. We were pampered and surprised with romantic dinners and champagne three times ! We were SO impressed and happy with everything they booked for us, and the entire process was COMPLETELY stress free. The trip was the trip of a lifetime - all thanks to Ubuntu ! We’ve already recommended them to so many of our friends !  

Thank you to the entire team at Ubuntu Travel for listening to our desires, asking questions and then curating the perfect trip to Africa! If you are looking for a team to help you make your African dream trip come true, I highly recommend Ubuntu Travel! They were very easy to work with, detail oriented, communicative and professional. My husband and I had dreamt of taking our 3 adult children to Africa and Ubuntu Travel made this dream happen, even with COVID. Ubuntu's ability to navigate us through all the challenges/restrictions that came with COVID was above and beyond. We could not have done this on our own. Africa is a magical place and the Ubuntu's teams personal love for the Bush and extensive knowledge of Africa made our trip especially memorable. I highly suggest you trust them and let them do the planning you won't be disappointed. Don't wait book your safari now, Africa is incredibly special. Many thanks to the Ubuntu Travel team until we meet again!

I cannot recommend Ubuntu Travel enough! My husband and I used them to plan our honeymoon November 2021 and thought it was the best decision we made for our travels. Ubuntu was perfect for us because they made planning extremely easy and had excellent customer service. We had never traveled to Africa before and were planning our honeymoon during COVID so it is easy to get overwhelmed with all the travel requirements and options available. Ubuntu Travel curated the perfect itinerary for us based on our preferences over a few meetings and were always available for any questions we had. They also handled all of our transportation, activities, and COVID tests when we arrived in Africa which was very convenient. During the honeymoon they went above and beyond to check in on us to make sure all of our travels were running smoothly. The only thing we had to worry about was booking our flights there and back home! Thanks to Ubuntu Travel we had the honeymoon of our dreams and cannot wait to visit Africa again (and would 100% book through Ubuntu Travel again!).

We had the most incredible trip to Kenya that was organized by Kyle and Jenna at Ubuntu Travel. Everything from beginning to end was seamless. We started off our trip at Giraffe Manor which had been on our bucket list forever and it totally lived up to expectations. The accommodation, food and service were impeccable. The experience with the giraffes was incredible. My adult kids cannot stop talking about how special that experience was. We then moved on to the Masai Mara where we spent two days at Sanctuary Olanana and three days at andbeyond Bateleur. Both camps in every way were amazing. Traveling during COVID could be challenging but Ubuntu Travel were so thorough in their planning that our trip went off without a hitch. I would highly recommend Ubuntu Travel for travel to Africa, and am so thankful that I used them to create for my family and I a Dream vacation.

"This was a dream vacation the lodges were beautiful the food fabulous people amazing animals fantastic everything was perfect from start to finish arrangements from start to finish were impeccable."

Plan a Trip

Reach out and let’s start talking. We’ll listen and begin to tailor an experiential, private, luxury vacation based on exactly how you want to experience Africa. From adventure to relaxation—and everything in between—let us handle every detail of your unforgettable journey.

What does a safari agency do?

We customize journeys for individuals and groups of all sizes, specializing in luxury safaris in Southern and East Africa. We work closely with our clients to design itineraries that fit their specific travel goals with the sole focus of delivering bucket list adventures and experiences.

How far in advance should I book a safari?

We recommend booking travel anywhere from six months to a year in advance, to be sure that you are able to secure your preferred accommodations and travel routes, as most lodges have limited accommodations and rooms fill up well in advance. If you are sure of your future travel plans, we can book over a year in advance, however, your international flights will need to be booked at a separate time, as those schedules are only released 11 months in advance. That being said, we are also able to book last minute travel, pending flight and lodge availability, and have done so on many occasions.

How safe is a safari?

Very safe! Safari guides and staff are highly trained to keep guests safe during their safari experiences. Understanding and recognizing animal behaviors is a key part of ranger training, teaching guides to respect the space of wild animals and provide a safe environment for both the guests and the wildlife.

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Learn Italian

101 basic italian phrases for travel you need to know for your trip to italy.

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

If you’re planning on visiting Italy then it’s a good idea to learn some key Italian phrases, words and sentences. In this guide to basic Italian phrases for travel, we step you through the most useful ways to communicate on your trip to Italy. After all, language is a big part of Italian culture and you want to experience it all, am I right?

Making an effort to understand and speak Italian on your trip is not simply a matter of respect – although we think this is very important too. When you talk to people in their language they appreciate it and experiences open up to you that would not have been possible if you had been speaking English.

Article contents

So let’s get started with the common Italian phrases and words that will be most useful to you on your travels.

Basic Italian phrases

When you visit Italy, these are the most common words and phrases that will demonstrate you have made some effort to speak the local language. Learning these useful Italian words will help you talk to all manner of people during your trip.

Note – We’ve provided a phonetic pronunciation guide after the Italian translation for each word. If you really want to get the accent right a little extra study is recommended. We’ve provided some useful resources at the end of this article to help you learn Italian travel phrases useful for your trip.

Yes – Si – See

No – No – Noh

Please – Per favore – Pehr fah- voh -reh

Thank you – Grazie – Grah -tsee-eh

You’re welcome – Prego – Preh -goh

Cheers! (To your health) – Salute! – Sah -loo-tay

Excuse me (for attention) – Scusi – S kooh – zee

Excuse me (to pass by) – Permesso – Pehr- mehs -soh

Do you speak English? – Parla Inglese? – Parh-la een-glay-zeh

I don’t understand – Non capisco – Non kah -pee-skoh

I’m sorry – Mi dispiace – Mee dees- pyah -cheh

Common greetings in Italian

One thing we really love about visiting Italy is the cultural differences and norms. In Italy, saying “good morning” is not simply a throwaway line. You should always greet people wherever you go – when entering a shop or restaurant, to hotel staff, on the bus or at a cultural sight. It’s the expected thing to do.

A friendly “buon giorno!” with a smile will go a long way. So here are the most common Italian greetings and their context so you get it right! Generally you use the formal with people you don’t know, especially older people. The informal is used between friends.

Good morning (formal) – Buon giorno – Bwohn- johr -noh

Good afternoon (formal) – Buona sera – Bwoh -nah- seh -rah

Good night (formal) – Buona notte – B woh – nah – noh – teh

Hi / Bye (informal) – Ciao! – C how 

Good bye (formal) – Arrivederci – A hr -ree-veh- dehr -chee

My name is … – Mi chiamo – Mee kyah -moh

What is your name? – Come si chiama? – Koh -meh see kyah -mah?

Pleased to meet you – Piacere – Pyah- cheh -reh

How are you? (formal) – Come sta? – Koh -meh stah?

Good thank you – Bene grazie – B eh -neh  grah -tsee-eh

How to say numbers in Italian

While you don’t need to be able to count to 100, a good grasp of numbers up to 12 at least (for the hours of the day) will stand you in good stead. After all, you need numbers when you’re at a restaurant – una pizza per favore! (a pizza please!)

One – Uno – Oo -noh

Two – Due – Doo -eh

Three – Tre – Treh

Four – Quattro – Kwah -troh  

Five – Cinque – Cheen -kweh

Six – Sei  – Say

Seven – Sette – Seht -tey

Eight – Otto – Oh -toh

Nine – Nove – Noh -veh

Ten – Dieci – Dee- EH -chee  

Eleven – Undici – Oon – dee-chee

Twelve – Dodici – Doh -dee-chee

To learn more about counting in Italian click here

Telling the time and days of the week

Here are the basics of telling time in Italian, plus days of the week and other useful sentences for making reservations and plans. Italians generally use a 24 hour clock but also understand the 12 hour clock if you specify morning and afternoon.

In the morning – Di M attina  – Dee mah- teen -ah

In the afternoon – Di p omeriggio – Dee poh-meh- reed -joh

In the evening – Di Sera – Dee se h – rah

Noon – Mezzogiorno – Mehd-dzoh- johr -noh  

At what time? – A che ora? – Ah kay oar-ah?  

Nine o’clock in the morning – Le nove – Le noh-vay

Eight o’clock in the evening – Le otto di sera /  – Le ot-to dee seh-rah 

Monday – Lunedì  – Loo-neh- dee

Tuesday – Martedì – Mahr-teh- dee  

Wednesday – Mercoledì – Mehr-koh-leh- dee

Thursday – Giovedì – Joh-veh- dee

Friday – Venerdì – Veh-nehr- dee  

Saturday – Sabato – Sah -bah-toh

Sunday – Domenica – Doh- meh -nee-kah

Today – Oggi – Ohd -jee

Yesterday – Ieri – Yeh -ree

Tomorrow – Domani – Doh- mah -nee

Want to speak more Italian?

Check out our review of Rocket Italian , one of the best online courses for learning Italian.

Useful phrases at restaurants

No doubt your Italy trip includes a plan to enjoy a few meals at restaurants. And we’re sure ordering a gelato or two is also high on your list. Let’s get you ready with these essential Italian phrases you need for ordering food or at restaurants. These may be the times that you interact with Italians the most so practice your greetings too!

Can I see the menu please? – Il menu, per favore – Eel men-oo, pehr fah- voh -reh

What do you recommend? – Che cosa ci consiglia? – Kay koh-za chee kon-seel-ya?

I’m allergic to… – Sono allergica/o a.. . – Son -oh ah -ler-gee-koh / kah ah

Gluten / Dairy / Fish – Glutine / Lattecini / Pesce  – Gloo-teen-ay /  Lah-tay-cheen-ee / Pesh-ay  

House wine – Vino della casa – Vee -noh del-lah car-sah

Red / white wine – Vino rosso / bianco – Vee – n oh ross-oh /  bee-ahn-koh

A glass / bottle – Una bicchiere / una bottiglia – OO -nah beek- kyeh -reh / boht- tee -lyah

Appetizer – Antipasto  – Ahn -tee-pah-stoh

First course – Primo – Pree -moh

Second course – Secondo – Sek -kon-doh

Dessert – Dolci – Doll -chee

Two flavors please – Due gusti, per favore  – Doo -eh goo-stee, pehr fah- voh -reh

Where’s the bathroom? – Dov’è il bagno?  – Doh- veh eel bahn -yoh?

The check (bill) please – Il conto, per favore – Eel kon-toh, pehr fah- voh -reh

Can I pay by card? – Posso pagare con la carta? – Pohs -soh pah- gah -reh kon la cahr-tah?

Words to know when you are visiting museums

Visiting museums and attractions is a big part of many Italian itineraries. In this section, we’ve given you some useful phrases in Italian to help you buy tickets and ask common questions.

When does it open / close? – Quando si apri / chiude?  – Kwahn -doh see ah-pree / chee-oo-deh?

Two adults / one child – Due adulti / un bambino  – Doo -eh ah-dool-tee / oon  bahm-bee-noh

One / two ticket/s – Un / due biglietto/i  – Oon  beel-yet-toh / tee

One senior – Un pensionato  – Oon pen-seyoh-nah-toh

One student – Uno studente – Ooh -noh stoo-den-teh

Where is the bag store / cloak room? – Dov’è la guardaroba? – Doh-veh lah gard-ah-robe-ah?

Asking for directions in Italian

If you get lost or need help with directions, these helpful words in Italian will come in handy.

Where is… ? – Dov’è…? – Doh-veh … ?

Entrance – Entrata  – En -trah-tah

Exit – Uscita  – Ooh -shee-tah

Left – Sinistra  – See – nee-stra

Right – Destra – Deh -stra

Straight ahead – Dritto – Dree-toh

Forward – Avanti  – Ah -vahn-tee

Back – Dietro – Dee-et-roh

Useful words for transport and getting around

Most visitors to Italy will need to take a train or bus, or ride in a taxi. These phrases will be useful in these situations when it is likely you may need to ask for help to reach the right platform or bus stop.

Where is the train station? – Dov’è la stazione? – Doh-veh lah stah-tzee-oh-neh?

Where is the bus stop? – Dov’è la fermata – Doh-veh lah fur-mah-tah?

One way – Andata  – Ahn – dah-tah

Return – Ritorno – Ree -torn-oh

What platform for Rome? – Da quale binario per Roma? – Dah kwah-lay bin-ah-rio pehr Roh-mah?

Newstand (for bus tickets) – Tabacchi  – Tah-back-kee

Shopping words in Italian

Time to go shopping! Make sure you’re ready with these key phrases.

I would like… – Vorrei…  – Vor-ray…

How much is this? – Quanto costa questo?   –   Kwahn -toh kohs -tah kwehs -toh??

OK I’ll take it – Va bene, lo prendo – V ah beh -neh , loh prehn- doh 

I don’t want it – Non lo voglio – N ohn loh voh- lyoh

Can you ship to…? – Puoi spedire a?   –   Pwoy   sped -ear-eh ah?

What to say if you need help in Italian

We hope you never need to use these phrases but it’s a good idea to know them “just in case”.

Help! – Aiuto! – Ay-oo-toh!

I need a doctor – Ho bisogno di un dottore   – Ho biz-ohn-nyo dee oon dot-tor-reh

Call the police – Chiami la polizia  – Kee-ya-mee la po-lee-zee-ah

Look out! – Attento!  – At – ten-toh

Go away! – Vai via! – Vy vee-ah!

Want to get beyond basic Italian phrases for travel?

These days there are a wealth of resources to help you learn Italian. You can use handy apps, books and podcasts to get started and we outlined some of the best of these in this article .

But, if you want to construct your own basic Italian sentences and perfect your accent, a systematic approach with a proven method will help you make progress quickly. After much trial and error, we enjoy using Rocket Italian . This online course combines verbal cultural situation lessons with grammar and vocabulary to get you speaking Italian quickly. My accent also improved significantly thanks to the voice recognition tasks.

Another option for travelers wanting a quick start to learning Italian for their trip is the fast track method developed by our friends at Intrepid Italian. Designed to get you speaking the key phrases you need for your trip, this short course aims to get you speaking travel ready Italian in 2 weeks > more info .

Planning a trip to Italy?

We love travel in Italy and sharing our knowledge. Read our Italy trip planning guide or join our FREE Italy travel planning community . Our 140,000+ members are happy to answer questions about your itinerary, how to get from place to place, the best places to stay and fun things to do.

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This Lesser-known Region of Italy Has Stunning Ocean Views, 3 National Parks, and Rolling Vineyards — and It's Just Outside Rome

Abruzzo is filled with dazzling medieval towns, rolling vineyards, and a divine food scene.

Gabriele Paris/Getty Images

Some 30 miles away from Rome in central Italy is a region that offers travelers a world of opportunity: Abruzzo. It's filled with dazzling medieval towns, rolling vineyards, pictorial stretches of sand on the Adriatic Coast, and alpine peaks set amongst three protected national parks. It's home to 75 percent of all European animal species, flora, and fauna. In fact, it's so lush that it's often called the "green lung of Europe."

Abruzzo has four provinces: Chieti, Teramo, L’Aquila, and Pescara. I called Chieti — a hilltop town dotted with ancient streets and a coastline filled with sunbathers and fishing huts — home.

Having visited Tuscany’s famed vineyards years ago, I was excited to see what this less frequented part of central Italy had to offer, from its celebrated Montepulciano wines to its charming towns flanked by mountains and the sea.

It's easy to reach Abruzzo from international airports like Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO) or Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ). Some connections are also offered through Abruzzo Airport (PSR). The Adriatic coastline is connected through high-speed railway services; the trip from Bologna Centrale to Pescara Central in Abruzzo takes a little over three hours.

I made my way to Chieti after spending a few days in bustling Rome, and the first thing to catch my eye was the lack of crowds.

Where I Stayed

Courtesy of Castello di Semivicoli

I checked into Castello di Semivicoli , an 11-room, 17th-century castle surrounded by vineyards and mountain peaks that frame the sparkling Adriatic Sea. But really, I was here for the wine — the idyllic location and views were just the bonus.

The three-generation Masciarelli name is well-known in the region as the driving force for putting Abruzzo wines (like Montepulciano d'Abruzzo and Trebbiano ) on the map, helmed by Gianni Masciarelli. (In 2004, Masciarelli and his wife Marina Cvetic purchased Castello di Semivicoli, keeping its historical details intact, including an olive press, antique furniture, and Murano glass chandeliers.)

tanukiphoto/Getty Images

I spent my afternoons poolside, sipping the first Masciarelli varietal (the black fruit-driven Villa Gemma) and Cerasuolo, a zippy cherry forward rosé. Guests at Masciarelli can also take cooking lessons, a private vineyard tour, and visit former professional soccer player turned winemaker Luigi Valori’s organic vineyard in northern Abruzzo.

LucaLorenzelli/Getty Images

The pastoral and coastal location of Abruzzo makes for a diverse cuisine of seafood, legumes, and meats ranging from mutton to pork. Thinly salted mutton skewers, called arrosticini , are one of the region’s most popular.

Don’t miss a visit to a sagre (local fair), for a chance to try ventricina (hot spicy salami), artichokes, and freshly baked bread.

Abruzzo has produced handmade spaghetti alla chitarra for more than 200 years. It's often served with a tomato sauce made with miniature meatballs, called  sugo di pallottine .

A popular seafood dish is brodetto alla pescarese , which is a stew made of slow-cooked tomatoes, pepperoncini, garlic, and small fish ranging from mullet to skate wings.

For sweet tooth satiation, two well-known desserts of the region include sugar-coated almonds (called confetti), and a soft chocolate nougat from L’Aquila, called torrone nurzia .

Outdoor enthusiasts will find several activities in Abruzzo. In the medieval mountain hamlet of Castel del Monte sits Gran Sasso National Park, a biodiverse playground accessible for children, elderly people, and visitors with mobility limitations. Marked as a protected area since 1995, the park is filled with olive groves, almond trees, and areas dedicated to mountain biking and horseback riding. Campo Imperatore plateau, often called Abruzzo’s "Little Tibet" because of its comparable Himalayan views, is also in Gran Sasso and accessible year-round.

Along the coast, a 26-mile back path called Via Verde leads to the Trabocchi coast, where fisherman huts on water stilts line the sea like wooden octopus’ in the distance. A dinner of grilled seafood paired with Vini Valori wines at Trabocco Valle Grotte , suspended over the water during a multi-colored sunset, remains one of the greatest moments of my trip.

Also along the Trabocchi coastline, Punta Aderci Nature Reserve is a protected enclave of dunes, beaches, and clifftops where you can bike along a path or grab a seat on its pebbly sand.

The Wines of Abruzzo

Courtesy of Pasetti Winery

Never one to shy away from a wine tasting or two, I eagerly leaned into learning more about Abruzzo’s varietals. After all, its proximity to the sea and the Apennine Mountains creates an ideal Mediterranean climate for growing wine, and there are approximately 250 wineries in the region that produce roughly 1.2 million bottles per year.

I was off to a good start in Chieti, as the area produces the majority of wines in Abruzzo, including the coveted DOC label, which notes the highest level of quality assurance. While Tuscany is well known for its Vino Sangiovese grape used to make its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, in Abruzzo, it’s all about the full-bodied Montepulciano grape. (Montepulciani d’Abruzzo represents approximately 80 percent of the region’s wine, followed by Trebbiano d'Abruzzo, Pecorino, and Cerasuolo–an Abruzzo rosé.)

At Masciarelli, visitors can tour the barrel rooms and then have a curated tasting at Castello di Semivicoli , paired with typical Abbruzzese food. The region’s dry and herbal white wine, Trebbiano, is a good complement to the fragrant seafood stews and fried foods of the region.

Fifth-generation Pasetti Winery and guest home is elevated 1,800 feet above sea level in the village of Pescosansonesco, inside the National Park of Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga. It’s an ideal location to spend a day immersed in nature and several varietals. Their Pecorino is filled with aromas of grapefruit and pairs well with just about any seafood dish.

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So Close to Sicily, So Far From the Crowds

Pantelleria is a seductive idyll of mud baths, romantic ruins and secluded swimming coves. It’s also rocky and wind-whipped, making it quieter than its big-sister island next door.

Visitors can get close to the rock formation known as Arco dell’Elefante, a lava arch that resembles an elephant drinking water, when touring Pantelleria by boat. Credit...

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By Amy Tara Koch

Photographs by Paolo Pellegrin

• Published May 29, 2024 Updated May 30, 2024

For years I had been hearing about the island of Pantelleria, the craggy, hard-to-get-to Eden with middle-of-nowhere tranquillity that sits 89 miles southwest of the island of Sicily and about 50 miles east of Tunisia. Luca Guadagnino’s 2015 film “ A Bigger Splash ” painted a seductive idyll of mud baths, romantic ruins and secluded swimming coves. Celebrities like Madonna, Sting and Julia Roberts visited, drawn to the striking, Africa-meets-Italy ambience, along with Giorgio Armani, a part-time resident since 1980. The fact that nobody was impressed by them added to the allure.

“We always tell newbies that you will either love it or hate it,” said the fashion stylist Sciascia Gambaccini, who has owned a vacation home on the island for 33 years. “This is not Capri. We don’t have Chanel. There aren’t fancy resort hotels. There is constant wind. The beauty is in the slow pace and the wild landscape.”

The absence of white-sand beaches is worn like a badge of honor. Locals schlep their own gear to the jagged lava rock perches that line the coast and cannonball into the turquoise sea. The old-fashioned pasticceria and dingy olive stalls in Pantelleria Town, bestow it with “Godfather”-like charm.

And the wind, well, it’s part of the package. As locals will tell you, nature is in charge here, and when a sirocco hits, you have to go with the flow.

A fragrant, otherworldly landscape

Thousands of years ago, farmers on rocky, wind-whipped, fresh-water-free Pantelleria figured out how to cultivate crops.

They built terraced walls from porous lava rock that blocked the wind and irrigated the fruits and vegetables with dew. These steep terraces undulate throughout the island, lending a primordial texture to the bluffs of lava rock. Ubiquitous lava stone dwellings called dammusi also lend to the otherworldly landscape.

Pantelleria’s topography completely shifts as you move from one part of the 32-square-mile island to another. As I zipped along the narrow main road and unpaved side routes, the scenery moved from lush caldera-formed valleys to barren plateaus tufted in Mediterranean scrub to hilltop villages festooned in pink bougainvillea, and up to woodsy mountains. Flowering cactuses and caper bushes with purple stamens grow with abandon, as do herbs. When the wind blows, it smells of wild oregano.

Reminders of Pantelleria’s ancient roots are everywhere.

In Mursia, the bar Sesiventi overlooks Bronze Age burial monuments. In Nikà, I thought of the Romans as I plopped into the burbling thermal baths that they carved into the stone. Pantelleria Town is dominated by a castle begun in the Byzantine era, Norman additions and a bell tower built later by the Spanish.

That Pantescan vibe

The island is not easy to reach. The Danish airline DAT , the Spanish carrier Volotea and the Italian ITA Airways fly there from within Italy, but only on certain days. After the high season, which runs from the end of May through the end of September, it becomes more challenging with one-off flights or an overnight ferry option from Trapani on the main island of Sicily. (Pantelleria is part of the region of Sicily.)

I flew from Palermo last June, and after the jolt of landing on a volcanic speck in the sea, I felt the siren song of slackerdom. It was hot. And the wind/cicadas combo was like an island lullaby. My late-afternoon arrival coincided with aperitivo hour, which has its own format in Pantelleria. People climb to the roofs and sit on pillows to watch the sun slip into the sea. I experienced this tranquil rooftop scene, or anti-scene, at different restaurants, hotels and homes throughout my week on the island.

Of note, there was no blaring music. Nature was the main event, and it was treated with reverence. Tesla? Mercedes? Land Rover? Not a chance. Everyone drives beat-up cars, the Fiat Panda being the most popular. When a friend picked me up in this toylike contraption, I learned why. Their tiny size and light weight make it simple to wedge into tight parking spots and navigate oncoming traffic on single-lane roads, a maneuver that often involves pulling over into bushes or onto a narrow precipice.

While there may not be beach days, there are certainly swim days that unfold upon lava outcroppings. Balata dei Turchi was my favorite, partly because it was such an adventure to get to this bay beneath approximately 800-foot lava cliffs. It involved negotiating steep, unpaved terrain in my friend’s decrepit Panda, bouncing over boulders as plumes of dust clouded the windshield. After parking, it was a 10-minute descent down the rocks on foot. We placed towels on the black rocks and plunged into the sea. A thick rope affixed to the rocks helped swimmers pull themselves back up.

Some days, the swim was spontaneous. After a wine-soused lunch at La Vela in the Scauri port, I ditched my clothes (I learned to tuck a swimsuit into my tote) and waded past sea urchins into the crystal clear sea. Around me, sunbathers were reading (real books) and children snorkeled and played (real) games. It felt like 1985.

A boat tour offers the best perspective of the island. But with the wind, one had been tricky to schedule. Finally, the gusts receded, and I set out with a lithe, Speedo-clad skipper to explore the lava-formed grottoes accessible only by sea. We motored into the Grotta delle Sirene and then Sataria , the sponge-encrusted grotto where legend has it that Odysseus was bewitched by the sea nymph Calypso. We got up close to Arco dell’Elefante , a lava arch that resembles an elephant drinking water. Then we anchored in front of the caves of Punta Spadillo for a panini lunch before diving into the green-blue, parrotfish-rich sea. We saw one only other boat, which departed as we arrived.

Vino e capperi

If people know Pantelleria, chances are they will mention its two most famous exports: passito, a sweet wine made with the zibibbo grape, and capers. It is no easy feat to produce wine on an arid, fresh-water-free island. Vines were trained to grow horizontally to avoid the wind. To self-irrigate, they were planted in hollows so dew could drip into the roots at night. This centuries-old practice is recognized by UNESCO as an “intangible cultural heritage.”

All of the island’s 22 winemakers produce their own version of amber-hued passito, and each winemaker speaks poetically of how harsh conditions yield this “vino da meditazione,” or meditation wine, to be sipped slowly after dinner. “When you drink it, you can feel the people and land behind the flavor,” said Antonio Rallo, the fifth-generation co-owner of Donnafugata vineyards and president of the Sicilia DOC wine consortium. “It could never be made anywhere else besides this island.”

Sun, wind and mineral-rich volcanic soil are also the secret to Pantelleria’s capers, whose exceptional sweetness makes them prized throughout the gastronomic world. As most vineyards grow grapes and capers, wine tastings include foods that showcase both flavors.

Emanuela Bonomo , a rare female winemaker here, explained how the wind created a concentrated flavor of lava minerality and salt in both her produce and small-batch wines. At the vineyard she served fried zucchini with mint and oregano; caponata; and cheese topped with dried zibibbo grapes alongside fig jam, and huge lemons, sliced and drizzled with oil. Everything was layered with aromatic capers. Ms. Bonomo also wanted to make sure that I understood that everything was “fatto a mano”: She and every other farmer still harvest by hand.

At Mr. Rallo’s vineyard, guests can walk past centuries-old olive trees and gardens and through a natural amphitheater of stone walls to examine the gnarled, low-to-the-ground vines and caper bushes. There are multiple tasting options, the most exciting being an under-the-stars dinner that pairs wines with classic Pantescan dishes.

Wellness, volcanic-style

On top of inspiring the rugged terrain, geothermal activity has fashioned the island into a spa playground with hot springs and natural saunas. Near Mr. Armani’s compound in the fishing village of Gadír is a small marina with tubs hewed into the stone. I followed the locals’ lead and submerged myself in a slightly slimy tub (the water is between 104 and 131 degrees Fahrenheit) for about six minutes, then cooled off in the adjacent harbor. Never mind the egg smell. The sulfur and mineral content is why the waters are effective at alleviating aches and pains.

On my boat day, I swam to the Sataria cave, which has three algae-laced hot spring holes with water temperatures progressing from tepid to medium hot. The island’s largest hot spring, Specchio di Venere (Mirror of Venus), is an aquamarine-colored lake that sits in a volcanic crater bordered by mountains and vineyards. On top of gurgling 104 degree water , the draw is a therapeutic (and stinky) mud that bathers slather all over their bodies. Does it work? Well, the heat rash on my arms and chest stopped itching, and my travel-tight back relaxed.

The springs were lovely, but I was most excited to detox in a natural stone sauna tucked into a mountain grotto. I trekked up the western slope of Montagna Grande for about 10 minutes and knew that I had arrived at Benikulá Cave , or Bagno Asciutto, when I saw puffs of steam filter out of a slit in the rocks, and then an older man emerge in a very slinky Speedo. Inside, nine people sat on piping hot stones and the ground (bring a towel!), shvitzing in vapors that can reach 104 degrees. Afterward, everyone relaxed on shaded benches with sweeping views of the Piana di Monastero valley.

Thanks to volcanic cliffs and verdant valleys, there is excellent hiking to counteract the effects of pasta and wine: 80 percent of the island is a national park, Parco Nazionale dell’Isola di Pantelleria, with 63 miles of paths across the Mediterranean scrubland, and up to the forests on Monte Gibele and Montagna Grande.

At every turn, I kept expecting the tourist scrum I had seen in Rome earlier in the month. But it never happened. Not at Dispensa Pantesca , an aperitivo hot spot; not at La Nicchia or Il Principe e il Pirata , the “it” restaurants; and not at Allevolte , a fashion boutique stocked with the kinds of silk caftans and crisply tailored linen trousers that travelers dream about nabbing on an Italian holiday.

If Sikelia , my chic, 20-room hotel, had been in Amalfi, dressed-to-the-nines guests would have been jockeying for selfies amid the fireball sunsets. Not here. “This island is bewitching. But it’s not for everyone,” said the hotel’s owner, Giulia Pazienza Gelmetti. “Getting here is challenging. Getting to the sea is challenging. It attracts a specific type of person. For those who get it, the payoff is huge.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the town on Pantelleria with old-fashioned pasticceria and dingy olive stalls. It is Pantelleria Town, not Scauri. It also referred incorrectly to Sicily, it is a region, not a province.

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Exploring the Outdoors, One Step at a Time

Hiking is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and tune out the chaos of city life. the tips below will help you get ready before you hit the trail..

Hiking offers a host of mental and physical benefits. If you’re new to it, here’s how to get started .

Fourteen years and one Apple App of the Year award in, AllTrails has become something rare: a tool that works for both experts and newbies .

Make sure you have the right gear . Wirecutter has recommendations for anything you might need — from hydration packs  to trekking poles . And remember to try on hiking boots  at the right time of the day .

These clever apps and devices  will help you to find your way, triage an injury and generally stay out of trouble on the trail.

Planning to venture out for a nighttime  hike ? Opt for wide, easy-to-navigate paths.

Experts say failing to alert family or friends of your plans is one of the biggest mistakes hikers make. Here are some more safety tips .

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See the summer solstice from a Roman emperor’s party cave

Ancient Roman elites marveled at an astronomical alignment from this cavern on Italy’s coast. Now you can too.

When summer arrives, celebrations of the solstice happen all over the world. In Italy , la dolce vita unfolds in Sperlonga , between Rome and Naples , in the middle of a coastal stretch called the Riviera of Ulysses .  

Sperlonga is set on a promontory, with a curve of beach clubs below, adorned with perfect rows of colorful umbrellas. Bordering the beach is an alluring sight: a giant cave opening to the sea. Recent discoveries reveal Sperlonga’s cave to be the location of an extraordinary astronomical phenomenon dating to ancient Roman times.

Roman holidays

The cave at Sperlonga was the place to be in summers of the first century A.D., if you were lucky enough to be invited by Emperor Tiberius . It was part of his massive villa, remodeled to be an awe-inspiring, open-air banquet room. Romans would boat there, escaping the heat of the Eternal City, and dine while reclining on benches in the cave’s dining niche (the triclinium), which was decorated with mosaics and shells.

It was an atmosphere that mixed myth with reality. As this coast was thought to be the location of events in Homer’s Odyssey , diners were surrounded with enormous marble sculptures that recounted the trials of Ulysses (Greek name, Odysseus )—dramatic images of the hero thrusting a spear to blind the giant cyclops Polyphemus or of his ship being attacked by monstrous Scylla . The natural backdrop was the same that enchants travelers today: sparkling sea and Mount Cicero, where Ulysses was captured by the sorceress Circe .

During the summer solstice, guests to Tiberius’s cave experienced a wondrous event: The dining niche was designed by his architect and astronomer to be directly lit by the rays of the setting sun. The discovery of the marvelous alignment was made only recently by archaeologist Marina De Franceschini with archaeoastronomer Giuseppe Veneziano of the Astronomical Observatory of Genoa .

While sites like Stonehenge , the pyramids of Egypt , and Teotihuacan in   Mexico have long been known for their astronomical alignment, De Franceschini says discoveries show that buildings in Imperial Rome were also designed to correspond with the sun’s path. ( Learn why summer solstice happens—and how humans mythologize it .)

“The power of the sun was seen as a sign of a divine presence, and when Emperor Tiberius stood in his cave’s niche on the solstice, he was glowing, proving his divine origin, that he was an intermediary between men and gods,” she says.

This discovery also reveals another dimension of Tiberius, whom historians nickname “the reluctant emperor.” His succession was fraught with intrigue, as all believed his mother, Livia , killed off potential heirs to the throne to put him in power. Gloomy and unpopular with the Senate, he retreated from Rome to rule from Sperlonga. Although he may have been unhappy about his role as emperor, De Franceschini’s cave discovery shows he strove to emulate rulers who came before him.

Tiberius’s party times in Sperlonga ended abruptly when the cave collapsed during one of his banquets, nearly killing him. Spooked, he abandoned the place for Villa Jovis in nearby Capri.

Seeing the solstice at Sperlonga

De Franceschini brought her cave findings to the new director of the National Museum of Sperlonga, Cristiana Ruggini, who collaborated with her to stage a 2022 Summer Solstice Event. It will be repeated this June 24.  

On that evening, visitors can enter the museum and then the nearby cave after-hours to experience the luminous effects in the niche. Slide projections will recreate what a banquet scene may have looked like on those long-ago summer nights. The presentation also shows how the Ulysses statues, now in the museum, were strategically placed in the cave. De Franceschini believes that “ The Blinding of Polyphemus ” statue was made for the summer dining niche, where the sun’s bright rays would also create a blinding effect to the viewer.

The solstice event is one of many initiatives Ruggini has spearheaded, reviving the museum and archaeological site, which is celebrating 60 years since its founding. Along with expanding the site’s archaeological research, Ruggini envisions the museum as a cultural center.

Though Sperlonga has long been a popular vacation destination for Romans and Neapolitans, it’s still under the radar for foreigners. It can be reached from Rome by car or train to the Fondi-Sperlonga station, and then a taxi or bus, in about two hours.

Travelers can wander the pedestrian-only historic center, a labyrinth of whitewashed stone buildings, archways, and narrow stairways. Sperlonga’s beach clubs serve seafood dishes, such as spaghetti alle vongole (with clams), or Caprese salads, made with fresh mozzarella from farms near Naples. After lunch, a walk along the beach leads to the museum and archaeological site with Tiberius’s cave, where the heart of Sperlonga’s enchantments await.  

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Will this be the year you focus on wellness? Maybe you’re wanting to finally go on that epic adventure or make sure you experience all those big pop culture moments first hand. Whatever your travel style is, exploring trends can be a fun way to find inspiration for your next great vacation. From immersive wellness […]

Your 2024 Travel Mood Board

Make these 2024 travel trends your own with experiences you'll only find at four seasons..

Will this be the year you focus on wellness? Maybe you’re wanting to finally go on that epic adventure or make sure you experience all those big pop culture moments first hand. Whatever your travel style is, exploring trends can be a fun way to find inspiration for your next great vacation. From immersive wellness experiences to set-jetting to event- and adventure-based travel, we’re taking a look at some of the biggest trends for the year ahead and how Four Seasons can help you channel them all.

What kind of traveller will you be in 2024? We can’t wait to find out.

Let the sound waves pour over you during a shamanic sound healing session at Naviva®, A Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, México.

Take part in a rejuvenating yoga class at Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort.

Every stay at Naviva® comes with a complimentary spa treatment, which can be enjoyed in one of the two spa pods tucked away in the jungle.

For the wellness traveller

From destination spas to yoga programs to meditation retreats, wellness tourism continues to be a global trend that’s here to stay. In fact, 94% of travellers are incorporating wellness and self-care into their trips, according to luxury travel advisor network Virtuoso. But beyond just a relaxing massage, more and more people are seeking immersive experiences – think forest bathing, thermal baths, guided meditation sessions in scenic destinations and fitness bootcamps that take you outside the gym – to help them focus on their health, reconnect with themselves and dive deep into the benefits of nature.

With just 15 luxury tents set on 48 acres, the adults-only Naviva®, A Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, México , was designed as a refuge that blurs the line between nature and resort. Relax in your stand-alone tent tucked discreetly into the forest and take a dip in your private plunge pool accompanied by the sounds of birds singing and the distant rumble of the Pacific Ocean. Along with the serenity that nature brings, this intimate, all-inclusive resort offers unique opportunities for self-discovery . Embark on a shamanic sound healing journey, forest bathe beneath the stars, visit the home of a local artist for inspiration or spend your day in the Spa. For those looking for a truly transformative experience, challenge yourself in the House of Heat – a traditional temazcal (sweat lodge) designed specifically for Naviva. Guided by a dedicated curandero (healer), your ceremony will explore an area of focus that resonates with you, such as gratitude, devotion or rebirth.

On the lush, rolling uplands of Hawaii’s Lanai island, the dedication to wellness can be felt in every corner of Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort . Restore the body and mind with a plethora of classes and treatments including Vinyasa yoga, TRX suspension, private wellness consultations and island activities such as horseback riding and archery. Opt for a curated experience or a personalized, more structured program; or work with the team of experts to create your own à la carte itinerary. Whatever you choose, you’ll be following the Sensei Way – a philosophy developed by co-founder Dr David Agus along with scientists and physicians from around the world that focuses on three paths: movement, nourishment and rest.

For even more expert guidance, head to the Center for Health & Wellbeing at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village . Set in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains just minutes from the Malibu beaches, the Center is where you can delve deeper into specifics such as metabolism, body composition and nutrition with a robust and highly skilled team of experts . Book a personalized four-day health retreat , plan a relaxing wellness stay , or simply check in for a weekend getaway and enjoy the complimentary classes led by expert instructors, the healthy food options and the tranquil setting. Try new things like equine-guided meditation with horses, meant to help focus and awareness.

Plan your perfect vacation at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, the real-life version of the fictional resort in Season One of The White Lotus .

For Season Two, The White Lotus travelled to Sicily and the historic San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel.

Spend at least one day relaxing by San Domenico Palace's iconic pool overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Head to the Spa in Maui for a locally inspired treatment or a massage in one of the thatched-roof outdoor spa hales.

For the set-jetter

According to a 2023 survey from American Express Travel, 70% of Gen Z and Millennial travellers have been inspired to visit a destination after seeing it in a television series or film. And Four Seasons is perfectly primed to bring your favourite on-screen locations to life. Just a few of our Four Seasons celebrity properties are The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas , where the 2006 James Bond movie, Casino Royale , was filmed; the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel , where sparks flew between Julia Roberts and Richard Gere in the all-time classic Pretty Woman ; and Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel , in last season’s Emily in Paris .

Of course, at the top of everyone’s destination wish list are Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and the gorgeous San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel – the real stars of HBO’s popular series The White Lotus .

Synonymous with paradise, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is a dream setting for a Hawaiian vacation. Maybe it’s the palm-tree-lined, powdery beach; the incredible aloha spirit of the staff; or the tailored treatments and locally inspired experiences found at the Spa, but this is a property that stays with you long after you leave. While the resort in The White Lotus is fictional, you can still walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters from Season One while in Maui. Snorkel in the clear blue waters, explore the Pacific aboard a private yacht, unwind by the pool and be sure to pay a visit to the Resort Spa .

Built on the site of a 14th-century convent, San Domenico Palace served as the scene-stealing backdrop for Season Two of The White Lotus . The Hotel, set along Sicily’s coast within the charming town of Taormina, makes the most of its dramatic setting with rooms overlooking the Ionian Sea, sprawling gardens and a Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by Chef Massimo Mantarro. Have the Hotel arrange for a picture-perfect Vespa ride through the historic streets or a luxury yacht cruise, just like Tanya did.

Enjoy dinner and drinks at MARCUS Restaurant + Terrace, a stylish hotspot located at Four Seasons Hotel Montreal.

Lounge by the adults-only pool at Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club.

Grab a drink at The Surf Club's legendary Champagne Bar, fringed with palm trees and set in the Hotel's original Art Deco building.

The guest rooms at Four Seasons Hotel Montreal overlook downtown.

For the culture connoisseur

Experiential travel shows no signs of slowing down in 2024. Increasingly, travellers are planning vacations around a concert, sporting event or seasonal festival. Whether you’re organizing your girls’ trip to Singapore to coincide with a Taylor Swift concert, booking a stay in Miami to relax on the beaches and see Lionel Messi play, heading to Montreal for the Canadian Grand Prix, or perfectly timing a Paris vacation with the 2024 Summer Games, maximizing travel has never been so fun.

Now that Argentine soccer star Messi has joined Inter Miami CF, it’s the perfect excuse for soccer fans to book a South Florida trip. Rest your head at the elegant Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club , which scores major points for its sprawling, timeless rooms and residences; poolside cabanas; and the legendary, greenery-filled Champagne Bar . Located along 9 pristine acres in Surfside, you’ll have easy access to downtown Miami and shopping in Bal Harbour, with DRV PNK Stadium just a 45-minute drive away. Another excellent option? Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale .

Up north, Four Seasons Hotel Montreal sits in the heart of the city, just a short distance from the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, the racing track that’s the site of the 2024 Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada, happening in early June. After a day cheering in the stands, return to the Hotel for dinner and drinks at MARCUS Restaurant + Terrace , created by visionary chef Marcus Samuelsson.

Set along Cabo's Golden Corridor, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo del Sol offers a Mexican chic, village-style atmosphere.

Land, sea or sky, there are countless adventures available at Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica.

Plunge through forests, pass by breathtaking waterfalls and take in the incredible views from the slopes of a volcano while mountain biking in Costa Rica.

For the adventure seeker

Want to learn to free dive? Go river rafting? Ski in the Grand Tetons? Stepping out of your personal comfort zone and feeling the thrill of the great outdoors is also top of mind for many travellers going into 2024. Four Seasons has an impressive roster of global properties in sought-after adventure locales, but the one-of-a-kind insider access to unique, personalized experiences is something you won’t find anywhere else.

At Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica – which recently underwent a $35 million renovation – the idyllic seaside-meets-the-forest setting comes with a healthy dose of adventure. Fill your days with adrenaline-pumping activities such as cruising above the water on an eFoil surfboard, ziplining through the jungle and white-water rafting on the Upper Tenorio River. If you’re not sure where to start, the Resort’s in-house adventure providers, Papagayo Explorers , can guide you every step of the way.

Are you an ocean lover who’s ready to try something new? Head to Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo del Sol – opening in early 2024 – and learn to free-dive right off the Resort beach. Led by the on-site Adventure Team, the Resort’s special free-diving academy lets you build your skills and confidence in order to experience the underwater world in a deeply personal way. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a curious beginner, you’ll gain self-awareness and get a first-hand view into the same waters that celebrated oceanographer Jacques Cousteau once called “the world’s aquarium.”

If your adventure aspirations lean more towards the mountains than the beach, the chalet-style, ski-in/ski-out Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole offers myriad ways to get out and explore the wilderness. Glide down the celebrated ski runs at nearby Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in the winter, trek the area’s rugged peaks in the summer and come face to face with a variety of wildlife in Grand Teton National Park in any season. With plenty of year-round activities to choose from, there’s something for every type of adventurer in Jackson Hole.

YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE

Where will you find yourself in 2024?

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