When we add up all the different parts of the tourism industry (transportation, lodging, activities and many more), what comes together is one of the largest economic sectors in the world. International tourist arrivals - or, travelers arriving at a destination outside their home country for at least one night - have topped one billion, and this growth shows few signs of slowing down. Intercultural experiences are at an all-time high, but is that always a good thing? While the recent United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) conference “Tourism: a Catalyst for Development, Peace and Reconciliation” highlights tourism’s power for good, not all is well in the tourism world, as the emerging term “overtourism” describes.

Trekking to the dramatic heights of the Andes to visit Peru’s Citadel of Machu Picchu has become a deservedly popular adventure. Travelers the world over convene in Cusco, the typical base of trekking operators, in search of natural beauty, iconic archaeological ruins and a deep intercultural experience. At the same time, many aren’t aware that the options for getting to Machu Picchu don’t end with the classic Inca Trail or rail lines. Other trails exist that offer a variety of lengths and accommodations, with one that uniquely blends a more in-depth trekking experience with comfortable, top-rate lodging: the Salkantay Trail.

Global Basecamps’ itineraries to Namibia travel to many destinations throughout this fascinating arid country. From mountainous sand dunes to majestic wildlife and the wild coastline, this rarely-visited country has much to offer both in natural splendor and in its native indigenous cultures. Many call the country home (including the San, the Nama, the Ovahimba, the Ovazemba, the Ovatjimba, and the Ovatue). Composing about 8% of the country’s population, these peoples are largely hunter-gatherers or pastoralist herders of livestock, though some have also taken more modern occupations. Many are in the process of overcoming social hardships, and some groups have found resources for their culture in the tourism industry.

Two of Southeast Asia’s most intriguing countries, Thailand and Cambodia travel together as a perfect pair of destinations to visit on one trip. Our Cambodia & Thailand Heritage Explorer itinerary is one designed to show you the best of these countries’ human and natural history and beauty, and is one we highly recommend!

There’s no doubt about it – one of the top dream travel experiences for people around the world is going on an African safari. Global Basecamps make this dream come true for many clients every year, and client testimonials confirm that the days on the savannahs are often the most memorable of our travelers’ lives! Being well prepared with the right general safari packing list, as well as the “must have” top items, is critical in helping things go as smoothly as possible. Packing for a Patagonia trek versus for Bali’s islands is going to need for different gear, so let’s get started with what packing for a safari will be calling for.