I know we’re in the midst of all of the holiday craziness, but I always get a wanderlust itch this time of year. I amount it to the cold weather; after Christmas and NYE, I’m usually dying to see the electric blue water somewhere tropical instead.
Thanks to my travel bug, I recently found myself poking around on Instagram (as I laid down to fall asleep probably), falling down a rabbit hole as I discovered a few intriguing travel startup companies. Of course, I know the routine with these travel startups though; a lot of the unique, bespoke approaches to traveling almost seem to good to be true. Some, too, sound like they’re mainly geared to millenials, and I have my doubts if they’ll be around forever. BUT, that said, I can’t help but be intrigued with some of these offerings.
As I read about several of these travel companies and travel startups’ missions, I realized that the common thread was obvious: they’re all putting the control back in the traveler’s hands to create truly memorable trips in the most authentic way. No, seriously. With customized itineraries, unique and intimate experiences and chances to find the true hidden gems and hang with locals, you can finally say hello to the trip you’ve always dreamed of.
El Camino Travel, for example, got my attention a few months ago. They send a professional photographer with a group of 12 (max) to Colombia, Cuba, Nicaragua or Trinidad and Tobago. Sounds silly at first, but get this…you can leave your phone at the hotel and truly experience the authentic side of the countries with extensively planned itineraries by the pros. I mean it IS a little intriguing, isn’t it?!
So if you’ve got the travel bug like I do, check out the five companies below. I’d love to know what you think…are they too good to be true?! Too out-there for you?! I don’t know if I’d be brave enough for Night Swapping. Regardless, I’m rooting for them to be everything they say they are…and I’m saving up for my next adventure in the meantime. Cheers, Kat
P.S. If you’ve got a trip on the books (lucky duck!), check out these 11 tips to travel like a pro, and don’t miss the best airport outfit you can wear. xo