The painted elephants of Amber Fort, India.
Hello Boscov’s Travelers! Today we have a special treat, a blog post by our Exotic Destination Travel Specialist Susan Blum. Read on to learn about Africa, Vietnam, Cambodia, India and Peru, and why you should consider an adventurous romp to a foreign land for your next vacation! Thanks Susan!
For more than 30 years, I have traveled to exotic destinations in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas, researching hotels, resorts, tented camps, and itineraries that provide an experience expected by the most discriminating traveler. Some clients prefer to travel with a small, escorted group on a Tauk Tour; others a romantic custom holiday for two with the renowned Abercrombie & Kent. Families can choose from numerous Disney Adventure vacations designed for grandparents, children, and grandchildren. Whether you are traveling alone or with family and friends, there are endless opportunities to have the trip of a lifetime when going somewhere exotic. From the Americas to Europe, Asia, Africa, or any destination you choose, a memorable journey awaits. My goal is to have you take the leap beyond London, Paris and Rome to discover a new world that you may have imagined, but never dared to experience. Some of my favorite exotic destinations are detailed below.
Africa
Plains zebras and their baby.
Africa moves at a slow and gentle pace. There are no appointments to keep, just stunning scenery, beautiful people and an astounding variety of wildlife. In 1999 I joined an Abercrombie & Kent tour to East Africa, and since that visit, I have returned to explore the wonders of Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Botswana.
One brave wildebeest with a low IQ leaps into water filled with crocodiles and thousands follow. Similar to lemmings!
To see the migration of the wildebeest and their struggle to cross the Mara River, plan a safari to Kenya or Tanzania, or both! For wine and whales, visit Cape Town in South Africa, head north to Kruger National Park to spot the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and cape buffalo) and then fly on to Zambia to walk along Victoria Falls.
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Luxury lodges, amazing tented camps, excellent guides and the unique experience of being on safari are everything and more than you can possibly imagine. No matter which country you choose, a trip to Africa is a life altering experience with endless opportunities for adventure, discovery and relaxation. Throw away your watch, plan your safari, and begin dreaming of Africa!
Vietnam and Cambodia
Traditional farming in Vietnam.
From Hanoi to Saigon, stay in deluxe hotels, experience fine “French” dining, photograph shimmering paddy fields to French-fusion architecture and walk on unspoiled sugar white beaches. Vietnam continues to change rapidly and dramatically. If you want to enjoy its traditional culture, I suggest that you travel to this destination soon. A natural extension is a tour of Cambodia. The World Heritage ruins at Angkor are truly one of the most remarkable destinations on earth. In Cambodia you can explore areas newly opened to travelers, enjoy the fascinating capital of Phnom Penh, once known as the “Paris of the East” and meet a gracious and hospitable people.
A boy flashing a piece sign in Vietnam.
India
Ranakpur Jain Temple in India.
The history, architecture and diverse cultures of this continent fulfilled my dream of exploring the Far East. India has an array of cultures and religions that have thrived for ages, each expressing its beliefs and traditions in magnificent artistic and architectural achievements. Although a challenging destination, those who travel to India discover the treasures of one of the world’s great civilizations. If you enjoy delving into convoluted cosmologies and thrive on sensual overload, then India is a destination for you.
Peru
Looking for an adventure closer to home? Consider a trip to Peru where you can discover the secret of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. On lake Titicaca, visit a nearly extinct society, living like their ancestors on floating reed islands. A fabulous destination that does not disappoint.
Want to plan an exotic vacation? You can call Susan Blum at 610-223-4797 or shoot her an email.
All photos © Susan Blum. All rights reserved.
