travel adventure puzzles

15 Most Beautiful Travel Puzzles in 2024 to Inspire Your Next Trip

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These are the most beautiful travel puzzles to inspire you before your next trip!

You may not know this about me, but I spend too much time holed up at home working on jigsaw puzzles when I’m not traveling. During quarantine, I thought it was the perfect time to stock up on puzzles; from what I’ve seen, many people thought the same thing!

I’ve even talked about hosting a puzzle party, perfect for us introverts.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: November 21, 2023

− − Content Menu

• 15 Most Beautiful Travel Puzzles

More US Destination Travel Puzzles

• More International Travel Puzzles
• Not Travel Related But Recently Enjoyed
• Tips for Putting Together a Puzzle Fast
• What Are the Best Quality Puzzles?
• The Benefits of Puzzles
• What is a Good Size for Adults?
• How to Keep Unfinished Puzzles
• What to Do with Finished Puzzles
• What Are Puzzles Made of?

15 Most Beautiful Travel Puzzles to Work on When You Can’t Travel

As you’ll see, all the puzzles are 1000 pieces to 32,000 pieces, and many are Ravensburger because they make the best puzzles out there. Every piece is unique, and they fit together perfectly. 

I’ve included a couple of other highly rated brands with beautiful imagery, but as a friend says, ‘Ravensburger or nothing!’ I’m not gonna lie. It will ruin other puzzles for you. None of the others will feel as satisfying, so if you don’t want to drop all your cash on puzzles, don’t do Ravensburger first.

1. Big Sur Sunset, 1000 Piece, Ravensburger →

I worked on this puzzle while watching my grandma during her last days. Seeing it now brings back some bittersweet memories.

Big Sur is, dare I say, the most beautiful spot in the US. I love the rugged coastline and blue waters. If you look closely in the puzzle, there’s a small fence in the distance where we once sat to watch sunset. It brings back lovely memories.

See More: 11 Things You Can’t Miss in Big Sur

2. Northern Lights, 1000 Piece, Heye →

We chased the Northern Lights every night when visiting Iceland in winter . We were lucky enough to catch a glimpse and were amazed to see the lights dance through the sky. This Northern Lights puzzle makes me want to chase them again.

See More: How to Catch and Photograph the Northern Lights

3. London Jigsaw Puzzle, 1000 PC, Cloudberries →

This is the most recent puzzle I completed. Cloudberries make sustainably sourced puzzles; I love their simple, clean designs. This London puzzle is more abstract and a nice change of pace from the other photo puzzles.

I found the quality comparable to Heye and Clementoni, which are in my top 5 for quality. There were only a few pieces that interchangeably fit in the wrong area. Overall, the pieces were thick and fit nicely together. I didn’t have glare issues, and it was a fun puzzle to complete.

Also, they’re a smaller company if you like to support small businesses. ;)

See More: How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in London Itinerary

4. London Map puzzle, 1000-Pc, Xplorer maps →

This is the current puzzle I’m working on! I’ll let you know how I like it once I’m finished. The artist behind the maps, Chris, loved drawing maps as a kid and now travels the world illustrating maps.

See More: 15 Best Things to Do in Manchester England

5. Santorini Puzzle, 1000-Piece, Clementoni →

All the travel puzzles I’ve seen are from their High-Quality Collection, so I can only speak to this collection. I have to say that the quality did not disappoint and was comparable to my other Ravensburger puzzles.

See More: Best Sunset in Oia Santorini Greece

6. Winter in Yosemite, 240 PC, Nautilus Puzzles →

If you couldn’t tell by now, we love our National Parks . This puzzle features one of our faves and is also a wooden puzzle, giving it a unique feel and texture. Wooden puzzles tend to have fewer pieces (Nautilus Puzzle’s largest ones are just over 600 pieces), so it’s a fun, short puzzle to complete in one session. 

See More: Your Complete List of 400+ US National Parks

7. Tokyo Neon, 1000 PCS, Noir Puzzles →

Noir Puzzles is a higher-end puzzle brand from Buffalo Games. Not only can you feel the difference in weight and thickness of the puzzle pieces when comparing quality, but it’s beautifully packaged to become home decor.

See More: 15+ Coolest Things to Do in Tokyo Japan

8. Glacier National Park Puzzle, 1000 Pc, XPlorer Maps →

This Glacier National Park puzzle from Xplorer Maps was a great way to reminisce about a trip to one of our favorite national parks . When I return, I’ll be SO familiar with the geography!

For the most part, the pieces were unique and of good quality. I had a couple of instances where a piece appeared to fit in the wrong place.

See More: 9 Incredible Things to Do in Glacier National Park

9. Yosemite Climber’s Delight, 1000 PC, Ravensburger →

Yosemite National Park will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s the first national park I visited as an adult, and every time I visit, I’m in absolute awe at the sheer size of the rocks.

This is one of my favorite travel puzzles I’ve worked on recently because of the color gradient.

See More: 17 Breathtaking Things to do in Yosemite National Park

10. Paris Balcony, 1000 Piece, Ravensburger →

No travel list is complete without including the city of love, which is why this makes our list of best travel puzzles.

Paris is one of those popular cities that we have been in no rush to visit, but if we do, we will find  this balcony view  of the Eiffel Tower.

See More: 11 Best Things to Do in Paris France

11. Cinque Terre Viewpoint, 1500 PC, Ravensburger →

Cinque Terre is truly a magical place. We walked along the trails between each of these small towns, and I ended up taking photos at this same viewpoint.

See More: Our Cinque Terre Guide

12. Map of the World, 1500 PC, Ravensburger →

If you visit our home, you’ll find numerous maps in different rooms. We’re even looking to add a big one over our bed. I haven’t framed any of my puzzles, but I imagine  this world map puzzle  would be the first one I’d frame.

Right now, it’s neatly boxed up in sections for easy reassembly.

13. World Map, 2000 PC, Ravensburger →

We can’t get enough maps in our house. Here’s a 2000-piece puzzle if 1500 wasn’t challenging enough.

14. Hamnoy Lofoten, 3000 PC, Ravensburger →

Hamnoy is one of the most picturesque fishing villages in the Lofoten Islands, Norway. It’s definitely on my travel wishlist, but this puzzle will have to hold me over. Plus, it’s a 3000-piece puzzle that will keep you occupied.

Disclaimer: Ravensburger sent us this puzzle after we sent them this post.

15. The Waterhole, 18000 PC, Ravensburger →

Challenge accepted!  This massive 18,000 puzzle  is currently spread across my living room and is the first puzzle I completed at this scale. The pieces were divided into four bags for four quadrants, and sorting out the first quadrant’s edges took me over one hour. I also sorted as fast as possible and missed a handful of edges.

UPDATE:  The entire thing took me 222 hours to complete.

Have you been on a safari before? We’ve done a safari at Pilanesberg National Park and finally one at Kruger National Park this year!

16. Eiffel Tower, 216 PC, Ravensburger →

Have you ever tried a  3D Puzzle . I’ve never been a huge fan of them, but I’m open to trying another one especially since it’s by Ravensburger (I promise it’s not sponsored…. yet haha).

There are two editions: night and day. The one at night includes 3 LED lights, so that it can light up different colors. I’m waiting to finish the second quadrant of my 18000 piece puzzle before I can work on this one.

Since we prioritize local content, we put US destinations first and then international.

• Flowers in New York , 300 Piece, Ravensburger
• Oakland Bay Bridge , 300 Piece, Ravensburger
• Boston Waterfront , 1000 Piece, White Mountain
• Central Park Paradise , 1000 Piece, Springbok (also available in  500 Pc )
• Empire State Building Doodle Town , 1000 Piece, Cobble Hill
• Financial District New York , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Lombard Street , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Manhattan Lights , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Old Grist Mill West Virginia, 1000 Piece, White Mountain
• Times Square , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Brooklyn Bridge , 1500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Brooklyn Bridge Park , 1500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Top of the Rock View of Manhattan , 1500 Piece, Ravensburger
• West Quoddy Head Lighthouse , 1000 Piece, Springbok
• San Francisco Doodle Town , 1000 Pc, Cobble Hill
• Santa Monica Pier , 300 Pc, Blanc
• Yosemite Valley , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Rocky Mountain High , 2000 Piece, Cobble Hill (currently unavailable)
• Road Trip USA , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• National Parks of the US , 2000, Cobble Hill
• Vintage American Postcards , 1000 Pc, Cobble Hill

See More: Your Essential List of the Best Travel Books

More International Destination Travel Puzzles

• Bora Bora Blue , 500 Piece, Blanc
• London Town Houses , 500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Positano , 500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Spring in Paris , 500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Tiles for Miles Spain , 500 Piece, Blanc
• 99 Beautiful Places on Earth , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Amsterdam , 1000 Piece, Cobble Hill
• Antique World Map , 1000 Piece, Educa
• Bicycles in Amsterdam , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Canal Tour of Amsterdam , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Cappadocia Hot Air Balloons , 1000 Piece, Blanc
• Cinque Terre , 1000 Piece, Buffalo Games (also  2000 Piece )
• Dinner in Positano , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Doors of the World , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Grandiose Greece , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Greetings from Canada , 1000 Piece, Cobble Hill
• Lake Moraine , 1000 Piece, Blanc
• London Skyline , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Neon World Map , 1000 Piece, Educa
• Political World Map , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Positano Italy , 1000 Piece, Springbok
• Paris Sunset , 1000 Piece, Springbok
• Rio de Janeiro , 1000 Piece, Clementoni
• Sempione Venice Italy , 1000 Piece, Springbok
• Sunset Over Rialto in Venice , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Tower Bridge of London , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Westminster Sunset , 1000 Piece, Ravensburger
• A Paris Stroll , 1500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter , 1500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Picturesque Notre Dame , 1500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Vintage Paris , 1500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Waters of Venice , 1500 Piece, Ravensburger
• Neuschwanstein Castle , 2000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Sentimental London , 2000 Piece, Ravensburger
• Beautiful Places of Europe , 3000 Piece, Ravensburger

Not Travel Related but Recently Enjoyed

• Cats at Work , 1000 Piece, eeBoo
• Doodle Rainbow , 1000 Piece, Heye
• Gradient , 1000 Piece, Cloudberries

Essential Tips – How to Complete at Puzzle Quickly

• Sort out all the edge pieces and put the edge together first.
• Sort all the colors and patterns and group them first before doing more of the puzzle. This is the most efficient way but also very boring, so instead, I do the following:
• Pick a color or pattern that takes up the least of the puzzle and sort them out. It helps to do these first, so you have fewer pieces to look through for larger areas. Then repeat.
• In the end, I like to sort the pieces by shape.
• Lighting Matters : The best light is natural light, so it helps to work near a nice big window during daylight. Sometimes puzzles will have a glare, which makes it difficult to see the pieces. During the night, I like to use this  ring light  (we use this for our videos) and point it at the wall so that the light reflects back onto the puzzle.

What are the Best Quality Puzzles? What Company Makes the Best Puzzles

I’ve tried a majority of the puzzle brands out there, and as I mentioned before, Ravensburger, by far, has the best quality, with every piece being unique. Their “soft-click technology” makes it extra satisfying. The one con for them is that their puzzles have a lot of puzzle dust.

Here’s what you’re looking for:

• Pieces – Look at the size, shape, and thickness of individual pieces. Do they bend easily, or do you see puzzle lift (where the image peels off)?
• Piece Fit – do the pieces fit well together? Is it satisfying when they click together, or do you feel like you’re jamming them together?
• Image and Artwork – the quality of image reproduction and variety of options.
• Box – This doesn’t have to do with the actual puzzle but often the puzzle box. Nice, sturdy boxes help in terms of storage.
• Extras – the extra things they include can also be taken into consideration.

So far, I’ve enjoyed the quality of puzzles in this order:

Ravensburger > Clementoni > Cloudberries > Heye > eeBoo

Springbok and Buffalo Games were medium quality, and Ceaco was by far the worst quality. Here’s a great  puzzle brand comparison . I don’t necessarily agree with the order, but it will have to do until I take photos to show you side-by-side comparisons.

Below are some pieces of a Springbok puzzle. They are supposed to be irregular shapes, but clearly these were not cut properly. I made a whole pile of them.

Why are Puzzles Good for Adults? What are the Benefits?

Puzzles have a lot of benefits for adults. Here are just a few:

• Better Memory  – Solving puzzles helps our brain built new connections and reinforce existing ones, which improves mental health and speed. Jigsaw puzzles in particular are great for short-term memory.
• Better Problem Solving  – whether it’s for your job or for your next escape room, creative problem solving is something we all do a lot. Puzzles can help us develop those skills.
• Better Visual and Spacial Reasoning  – since we have to figure out how smaller pieces fit into a larger picture, this helps us with our visual and spacial reasoning, like driving a car, using a map, or packing a box.
• Better Attention to Detail  – this is important in helping you finish a puzzle, so it helps you improve that ability in other parts of your life as well.

What is a Good Size Puzzle for Adults? What are Adult Puzzles?

If you’re brand new to puzzles, start with a 300-500 piece puzzles since it’s less time consuming and it gives you the small wins that can motivate you for more complex puzzles.

1000 piece puzzles are pretty standard for people who want a project or to do them over a few days as you’ll see by the list we made here. Once you get really good at those, you can step up to 2-3 thousand pieces. I just ordered my first 18,000 piece puzzle and can’t wait to try that.

How Do You Keep Unfinished Puzzles?

Unless you can dedicate an entire day, most puzzles will take multiple.

I like to do puzzles on the floor and have a large foldable Korean tea table that I use and store under my bed. I couldn’t find any sold online, but you can pick them up at a large Korean grocery store like H-Mart. 

There are also  puzzle mats ,  sorting trays , and specifically built  puzzle tables . 

What Do I Do with a Finished Puzzle?

There are a few things you can do with a finished puzzle. I typically take photos and box them up again for future me.

• Glue It and Hang It.  You can use  puzzle glue  or  this puzzle sticker  to lock everything in place. Afterwards, you can frame it.
• Pay it Forward or Lend it Out.  Now that you’ve enjoyed it, pass it on to a friend who you know will appreciate it. We have a few friends that we swap puzzles with. If it’s one you really like, you can lend it out.
• Box Them Up:  All the 1000 Piece Ravensburger puzzles can be put back into the box in fourths. Eventually, if I want to do the puzzle again, I’ll take the whole thing apart.
• Save it for Future You:   I have yet to repeat a puzzle, but I’m hoping once enough time passes, I’ll forget many of the details and it will be just as interesting the next time around. If you want to challenge yourself more, you can time yourself and try to beat your own time.

What are Puzzles Made Of?

Original puzzles used to be made out of wood, but most puzzles are made out of paperboard since it’s the easiest and cheapest to mass-produce.

A photo is typically glued onto the cardboard before it is cut. Nicer puzzles use higher quality cardboard that feel nicer to the touch and is also less prone to the photo peeling off or not fitting well with each other.

Have you done any of these travel puzzles? Which travel puzzles should we check out next?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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Get Lost in the Best Puzzles for Adults Who Love to Travel

Featuring maps, images of favorite destinations, and art from around the world, these grown-up pastimes will keep even the most ardent globe-trotter entertained while stuck at home during these puzzling times..

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Jiggy’s contemporary art puzzles are made to be framed.

Courtesy of Jiggy

Puzzles have undergone a bit of a renaissance recently. Forget the old, stodgy games that always seemed to be missing pieces and stored in broken cardboard boxes. These days, contemporary art, innovative designs, and artisan craftsmanship have given rise to a new generation of the pastime.

What’s more, people looking for distractions while sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic are turning to puzzles. The methodical process of putting a puzzle together piece by piece is relaxing and a great way to relieve stress. You can enjoy the challenge, the satisfaction of completing a puzzle, and in the end, a pretty picture. For a little extra escapism, we’ve gathered 10 different puzzles to get lost in that will transport you around the world.

Custom Hometown Map Puzzle

Buy now: $40, thegrommet.com

Butler and Hill’s 400-piece hometown map puzzles are made to order. Each is based on a specific address—a spot marked with a house-shaped piece. The topographical lines, streets, highways, and place labels of the image, which uses U.S. Geological Survey mapping, help confuse the picture and make the puzzle more difficult, especially if your location is in the heart of a big city like Boston or New York. More challenging still, the box does not come with a picture of the completed puzzle, so be prepared to test your knowledge of the area. Only available for destinations in the United States and United Kingdom, the map covers an area of 7.5 miles by 5 miles and the finished puzzle is 12.25 inches by 18.5 inches.

Butler and Hill also offers other location-based custom puzzles, including a hometown map that uses aerial photography and a topographical map of any outdoor destination .

This wooden puzzle from Nautilus Puzzles features an ornate, 16th-century map.

Courtesy of Nautilus Puzzles

World Map, 1594 Wooden Puzzle from Nautilus

Buy now: $125, nautiluspuzzles.com

For art lovers missing their favorite museums, Nautilus wooden puzzles are the perfect panacea. Much of the company’s collection focuses on fine art and architecture: you can find Seurat’s A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte and an image of Le Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech, Morocco, with its garden and beautiful blue Cubist villa. The pieces of these wooden puzzles are oddly shaped, rather than the standard, square tessellating pieces you see on many puzzles. Each also includes “whimsy pieces,” specific shapes related to the puzzle theme. This 20-inch by 14-inch, 555-piece map of the world, originally created by Petrus Plancius, a Flemish cartographer and one of the founders of the Dutch East India Company, has pieces shaped like bears, pineapples, palm trees, whales, anchors, and more.

Dusk Puzzle

Buy now: $25, printworksmarket.us

Printworks’s Sky Series puzzles are just as difficult as the trendy gradient puzzles from Areaware, but have a hint of a destination. You still have the challenge of fitting 500 tesselated and similarly colored pieces together, while feeling like you’re enjoying a sunset in some tropical locale, a sunrise atop a mountain, or the night sky from a national park. The finished puzzle is 15 inches by 20.5 inches.

Charley Harper Glacier Bay, Alaska, Puzzle

Buy now: $20, charleyharper.com

Charley Harper’s whimsical, graphic prints make excellent puzzles because, while the designs are deceptively simple, the repeated geometric shapes are all slightly varied, which gets confusing. Expect to spend some serious time fitting the 1,000 pieces together and then more time simply studying them afterward. Harper was well known for his nature and conservation-focused work, including 10 posters he was commissioned to create for the National Park Service. Each beautifully captures the essence of the place: the Glacier Bay piece features puffins, a whale tail, seals, and a bald eagle against a background of blues and grays. We also love his Monteverde puzzle , which depicts the flora and fauna of Costa Rica, including a resplendent quetzal in the center.

Jiggy gives you the option of gluing your masterpiece together or displaying the pieces in a jar, so you can put it together again and again.

BerlinMagalog Art Puzzle

Buy now: $40, jiggypuzzles.com

Jiggy is one of a new crop of startups revitalizing the puzzling world. With a tagline like “puzzles worth framing,” you can expect these to be stunning works of art. They even come with tools to glue your puzzle together when you’re done, though the storage container, a gorgeous glass jar with a cork lid, is almost as decor-friendly as the finished piece. Jiggy highlights female artists from around the world, bringing their cultural influences right to your coffee table. Much of Jiggy’s debut collection is sold out, but you can still snag the BerlinMagalog puzzle by designer Diana Ejaita, who divides her time between Berlin, Lagos, and Milan, working as an illustrator and textile designer. With 450 pieces, this 12.6-inch by 16.8-inch puzzle probably isn’t one that you’ll labor over for weeks, but with such a spartan palate, it’s more challenging than it looks.

Road Trip—California! Micropuzzle

Buy now: $7, micropuzzles.com

Not only do these little puzzles feature travel imagery, like scenes of New York and California, but they’re also perfectly sized for travel. Each mini puzzle comes stored in a small, capped tube that you could easily slip in a bag or daypack, and the size of the finished puzzle (4 inches by 6 inches) fits nicely on a small café table, a seat-back tray, or even on top of a book. Small puzzles don’t often promise much of a challenge, but Micropuzzle pieces are smaller than standard, so you’re still dealing with 150 pieces for a postcard-sized puzzle. Go for a busy pattern, which will be challenging over and over again. We like the Road Trip—California! puzzle, which features destination logos from across the Golden State, Chinese Lanterns , a scene from the Yokohama China Town in Japan, and Italian Galleria , which shows the domed, windowed ceiling of an old galleria in Milan.

The Beach Two-Sided Puzzle by Gray Malin

Buy now: $25, booksamillion.com

Gray Malin’s dreamy beach photography has always had the power to transport us to lazy summer days in Italy or Hawaii. Together with stationery and gift company Galison, the artist turned a few of his most famous pictures, including an aerial shot of sunbathers on a beach and an image of two tiny skiers amid snowy trees into 500-piece puzzles. Even better: they’re double-sided, so you get two puzzles for the price of one. The reverse of the beach scene features an ocean reef, and there’s an aerial shot of the crowded area around the ski racks at Whistler on the other side of the snowy trees puzzle. Other puzzle themes include Italy and Hawaii . Each finished puzzle is 24 inches by 18 inches.

Revel in retro vibes with Liberty’s vintage travel poster puzzle.

Courtesy of Liberty Puzzles

Fly Hawaiian Air Wooden Puzzle by Liberty

Buy later: $105, libertypuzzles.com

Liberty Puzzles has acquired a cult following because its puzzles are both challenging and beautiful. About 15 to 20 percent of the wooden pieces in each puzzle are whimsy pieces, sometimes they’re related to the theme of the puzzle, sometimes they’re related to each other, and sometimes they are made up of several interlocking pieces, creating puzzles-within-puzzles. In the 553-piece “Fly Hawaiian Air” vintage travel poster puzzle, you’ll find mini puzzles of two surfers, a sun, a Tiki mask, and more. Puzzlers also love the special edition puzzles shaped like turtles, whales, bison, and crabs featuring the animal totem-inspired art of Sue Coccia . (Please note, due to Colorado’s current shelter-in-place order, Liberty Puzzles is temporarily closed, but plans to reopen as soon as possible.)

I Love Seattle Puzzle by Dowdle

Buy now: $20, dowdlefolkart.com

Dowdle’s fans love this company in part for the fun, destination-focused designs by Eric Dowdle that feature on every puzzle, but also because of the “ No Missing Piece ” policy: If you lose or damage a piece from one puzzle from the current line, the company will send a one-time, complete puzzle replacement of the same title for up to one year after your purchase date. Because of the way the puzzles are cut, it’s not possible to replace a single missing piece. A number of the puzzles come with “stories” that give extra information about the destination featured and facts about different elements of the design, including local figures and notable buildings. In the 1,000-piece I Love Seattle puzzle, you can spot the much-photographed pink elephant, Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and more.

Ravensburger Earth 3-D Puzzle

Buy now: $50, ravensburger.com

A giant among puzzle makers, Ravensburger has an extensive collection with every theme imaginable and sizes ranging from simple 10-piece sets to 40,000-piece monsters. You could find scenes from any country you might be wishing to visit. But particularly fun are the company’s 3-D puzzles. Build your own 216-piece VW bus , Eiffel Tower , or Neuschwanstein Castle . Or tackle the more challenging and novel 540-piece globe puzzle, which comes with a special stand to help you build the 9-inch sphere. (Please note, because of Ravensburger’s popularity and the demand created by those stuck at home during the COVID-19 pandemic, the company is currently selling out of items as quickly as it restocks them. If these 3-D puzzles are not available when you click through, check back some other time.)

Products we write about are independently vetted and recommended by our editors. AFAR may earn a commission if you buy through our links, which helps support our independent publication.

>>Next: 10 Books in Translation You Should Read This Year

Protect Your Trip »

14 top jigsaw puzzles, games and books to keep travelers entertained.

Even though you're stuck at home, you can still indulge your wanderlust with these activities.

14 Puzzles, Games and Books to Keep Travelers Entertained

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Jigsaw puzzles are a great solo or group activity that can help satisfy your urge to travel.

Travelers who've had to cancel spring trips due to the coronavirus spread are likely feeling a little restless. And while there are plenty of virtual attractions to satiate your appetite for adventure, sometimes you need a break from the screen. To help, U.S. News has collected some of the best travel-themed jigsaw puzzles, games and books to keep you busy while you're lounging at home. Read on to discover our list of activities fit for all ages, abilities and tastes.

National Geographic Colosseum 3D Puzzle

Spring is a lovely time to visit Italy, so why not build your own Colosseum in honor of Rome ? National Geographic's 3D puzzle comes with everything you need to build the model; assembly does not require scissors or glue. In addition, the puzzle comes with a booklet that explores the Colosseum's role in Rome's history.

The puzzle is ideal for those ages 10 and older. It has 131 pieces and costs around $25.

[ Buy now .]

CubicFun Moscow 3D Puzzle

For a challenge, try this 3D puzzle of Moscow 's skyline. You'll build out St. Basil's Cathedral , the Kremlin and more. The intricate piece even includes miniature Moscow residents. Previous builders agree that CubicFun's puzzles are excellent quality and satisfying to put together. Past customers also say the puzzle is great for all ages, though young children may need some assistance.

This 107-piece puzzle costs around $20 and takes about two hours to complete, according to its listing. You can also purchase skyline puzzles of Venice, London and other major European cities from the same company.

4D Cityscape Time Puzzle of Shanghai

This unique puzzle combines the four dimensions – length, width, height and time – to teach you about Shanghai 's history as you build. The puzzle's first layer is a traditional jigsaw puzzle that depicts Shanghai in the 1900s. The second layer, a smaller jigsaw puzzle, introduces Shanghai's current layout, including roads and buildings, to the piece. The third and final layer adds 3D models of the city's famous buildings to complete the skyline.

[See: 5 Travel-Themed Activities to Do at Home During the Coronavirus Outbreak .]

Previous builders enjoyed the puzzle, but they caution that it is best suited for older children or adults. In total, the puzzle has more than 1,100 pieces. This Shanghai puzzle costs approximately $40.

Mille Bornes

This French-themed racing game is all the fun (and pitfalls) of a road trip, without an actual vehicle. After getting a green light card, players attempt to be the first to travel 1,000 miles. However, drivers can sabotage their fellow racers by puncturing another player's tires or forcing them to obey a speed limit.

The game is entertaining for both kids and adults. Mille Bornes is designed for two to eight players and takes approximately 20 minutes to play. The starting price is $14.95, but you may be able to find better deals online.

Ticket to Ride – First Journey

Ticket to Ride is a classic tabletop game, and this version is specifically geared toward children. In First Journey, players complete Tickets by building train routes between cities. The first engineer to finish six Tickets wins. Reviewers overwhelmingly agree that this board game is perfect for kids but note that younger players may still need some help.

The game lasts for around 30 minutes and is ideal for two to four players, ages 6 and older. Prices start at $34.99, but you may be able to find a better price online.

Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?

Carmen Sandiego is an iconic character known for her stealth and thievery. In this card game, players race across the world to catch Carmen Sandiego, and the first player to do so wins. To get ahead in the game, capture Carmen's henchmen for clues about her location. Players agree that the game is enjoyable and is reminiscent of the classic video game series.

[Read: The 12 Best Language-Learning Programs .]

Each game lasts approximately 30 minutes. Two to four detectives can try to catch Carmen at a time, and it's ideal for those ages 8 and older. This game's MSRP is $14.99, but you can search the internet for a better deal.

Trekking the National Parks: The Family Board Game

Reviewers say this game is easy to learn, plenty of fun and teaches them a lot about America's national parks. Travelers win the game by racking up the most points, which they earn as they cross the United States to visit spots like Glacier National Park , the Grand Canyon and Shenandoah National Park .

The game is geared toward families, but reviewers say it can be challenging enough to keep a group of adults entertained. Up to five competitors can join in on the fun at once. Trekking the National Parks starts at $50.

"Destinations of a Lifetime" by National Geographic

This photo-heavy book contains 250 images taken at various exotic locales by National Geographic's incredible photographers. Flip through to explore unusual destinations like Mongolia, Ethiopia, the Cook Islands and Alaska's Pribilof Islands. Still, this book is more than just a glossy tour. "Destinations of a Lifetime" also includes information about each locale, such as the best times to go and insider planning tips. For would-be photographers, there are also sections about how artists captured particular shots.

The book usually costs around $40, but you may be able to find a deal online.

"Travel Puzzles" by Highlights Hidden Pictures

Pictures are not what they seem in this activity book from Highlights, a company that is well-known for its variety of products for kids up to age 12. Each black-and-white illustration, which features travel-themed destinations ranging from the Statue of Liberty to the White House to airports, contains hidden drawings that children must find for themselves. For example, what appears to be a basket of a hot air balloon might actually be a drum, and a bush might actually be a bird.

Reviewers praise the book, noting that though it is geared toward children in elementary school, it's challenging for all ages. The book contains more than 100 puzzles and nearly 2,000 hidden objects. Prices start at around $10.

"Landmarks of the World" by Abi Daker

Help soothe the travel itch by coloring your favorite destinations. Illustrator Abi Daker, who specializes in architecture drawings, has created renderings of the globe's most sought-after destinations like Cambodia's Angkor Wat, Sydney 's Opera House and London 's Tower Bridge.

In all, there are 35 places to color however you like. According to reviewers, the book is large and the intricate drawings are best suited for teens or adults. This coloring book starts at $14.95.

"Around the World in 80 Days" by Jules Verne

We'd be remiss if we didn't include a few literary classics on this list. Jules Verne's beloved "Around the World in 80 Days" follows Phileas Fogg's journey to circumnavigate the world in 80 days – a feat for 1872, the year the novel takes place. With the help of his valet, Passepartout, Fogg might make the trip in record time.

[Read: Social Distancing Outside: Safe Places to Go and Things to Do .]

Verne's imagination has withstood the test of time, and readers regularly praise the entertaining novel (though some admit that its writing style can seem outdated). The book is approximately 130 pages long and costs around $5.

"The Travel Activity Book for Kids" by Peanut Prodigy

This activity book is ideal for youngsters who like having a variety of things to do. The book includes mazes, connect-the-dot puzzles, word searches and pages to color, among other options. What's more, the pages all revolve around travel-related activities like flying in a plane, going on a road trip or learning about U.S. cities.

This book is ideal for children ages 6 to 10, according to Peanut Prodigy, the publisher. Reviewers give "The Travel Activity Book for Kids" nothing but praise. Get a book for your little one for around $6.

"The Odyssey" by Homer, translated by Alexander Pope

Perhaps the best-known and oldest travel story, "The Odyssey" has inspired countless other works from television to film to books. The story follows Odysseus, king of the Greek island Ithaca, on his 10-year journey home from Troy after the Trojan War's end. Along the way, Odysseus encounters a Cyclops, a nymph, goddesses and gods, each of whom either helps or hinders Odysseus on his travels.

The epic poem may be hard to grasp for young readers, and some content may not be suitable for children. You can snag a copy for around $15.

"World Traveler Coloring Book" by Thaneeya McArdle

For children who are new to coloring techniques or adults who dislike intricate patterns, this book is worth your time. The "World Traveler Coloring Book" includes fanciful drawings of 30 of the world's most recognizable landmarks, from the Eiffel Tower to the Great Wall of China to Diamond Head in Hawaii. The book also includes an educational section that describes different coloring techniques and tips, as well as pre-colored example images.

Each page is printed single-sided to prevent bleed-through, a feature that recent buyers appreciate. Buy the book for around $10.

Tags: Travel , games , books

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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Discovering the World Through Travel-Themed Puzzles

The allure of a puzzle meets the thrill of wanderlust when we dive into travel-themed puzzles . These unique puzzles not only challenge our minds but also transport us across continents, allowing us to discover new places and cultures without leaving our homes. Let’s journey through the captivating world of travel-themed puzzles and understand their unmatched appeal.

Benefits of Engaging with Travel-Themed Puzzles

At the heart of a travel-themed puzzle lies the promise of adventure and learning. As enthusiasts piece together a jigsaw puzzle showcasing the Eiffel Tower or tackle a challenging 2,000-piece puzzle about the Amazon rainforest, they invariably enhance their geographical knowledge. But the benefits don’t stop at mere knowledge. Engaging with these puzzles is a test of concentration, patience, and strategy. This can effectively refine your cognitive skills . For many, immersing themselves in a tranquil scene of a Bali beach or the bustling streets of Rome through a puzzle offers a sense of relaxation and escape. Beyond the landscapes, these puzzles serve as windows to the world’s diverse cultures, whether it’s a glimpse of a festival in India or a marketplace in Morocco.

Popular Types of Travel-Themed Jigsaw Puzzles

The realm of travel-themed jigsaw puzzles presents a myriad of scenes that can transport puzzle enthusiasts to different corners of the world. Some of the most sought-after scenes include:

• Landscapes : Breathtaking views of nature, from rolling hills and serene lakes to majestic mountains and vast deserts.
• City Skylines : Iconic views of global cities, capturing their unique architectures and vibrant atmospheres, such as New York’s skyline or Paris at dusk.
• Historical Landmarks : Famous structures and sites, such as the Great Pyramids, the Eiffel Tower, or the Great Wall of China.
• Cultural Festivals : Depictions of celebrations around the world, like India’s Diwali, Brazil’s Carnival, or Japan’s cherry blossom festivals.
• Wildlife and Nature : Showcasing diverse ecosystems, from African safaris with elephants and lions to tropical rainforests teeming with colorful birds.
• Markets and Street Scenes : Vibrant and bustling local markets or streets capture the essence of daily life in places like Marrakech, Istanbul, or Bangkok.

With each piece of the puzzle fitting together, jigsaw enthusiasts can embark on a visual journey, exploring the beauty and diversity of our world.

Learning with Travel-Themed Puzzles

Travel puzzles are not just fun; they’re great for learning too! They can help students in regular schools, those who learn at hom e, and even those who just want to study independently.

In schools, teachers can use these puzzles during geography lessons. For example, if students are working on a puzzle that shows the Great Barrier Reef, they can talk about where it is and why it’s important.

For kids who are homeschooled, these puzzles can be a cool way to learn. They can take their time putting together a puzzle that shows castles from Europe and then learn about the people who lived in those castles long ago. Another puzzle might show celebrations worldwide, helping kids understand how different people have fun and honor their traditions.

And, for anyone studying alone, these puzzles are a fun way to learn more about the world. Imagine making a puzzle of the Amazon rainforest. Once done, someone might want to read more about the animals that live there or why the forest is so important.

No matter where you’re learning, travel-themed puzzles can make it more interesting and help you understand more about our big, amazing world.

Travel-Themed Puzzles as Gifts

If you’re on the hunt for an exceptional gift, Springbok has an amazing selection of travel-themed puzzles. When selecting one, consider the recipient’s interests. A nature enthusiast might appreciate a puzzle showcasing a serene landscape, while history aficionados might be captivated by an ancient wonder. Several companies now offer the unique service of converting personal travel photos into jigsaw puzzles, making gifts all the more personal and cherished. More than a mere game, gifting a puzzle depicting an unexplored destination plants the seed of anticipation and dreams of future travels.

Travel-themed puzzles are not just about fitting pieces together; they are experiences waiting to be unraveled. Marrying education with relaxation, and exploration with imagination, they truly are windows to the world. So when wanderlust strikes but journeying isn’t feasible, why not embark on a voyage through a travel-themed puzzle and let the adventure unfold?

Join the Springbok Legacy Today!

Born in 1963 and still rocking the puzzle world, Springbok is the real deal. With unmatched quality, unique designs, and a strong eco-friendly vibe, they’re the gold standard of jigsaws. Dive into a world of precision and art with each piece. Grab a Springbok puzzle and become part of the legacy!

Springbok Puzzles

For the best jigsaw puzzle experience, choose Springbok! Since 1963, we’ve upheld our world-famous name with our originality, innovation, and superior quality. Our puzzles are made in the USA with 18% thicker pieces, precise interlocking pieces, and unique designs thanks to patented dies. Springbok is the top choice for puzzle lovers thanks to our commitment to the environment and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Join our community of ‘Bokers’ and experience the Springbok difference today! Sign up for our mailing list to receive exclusive promotions and to stay up-to-date on the latest puzzles, news, and events. To start shopping, go to our website and find the perfect jigsaw puzzle just for you!

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Travel Word Search Puzzles

Welcome to our webpage filled with free printable travel-themed word search puzzles! Are you planning your next adventure or just daydreaming about your next destination? These puzzles are sure to get you in the travel spirit while challenging your puzzle-solving skills. From famous landmarks to modes of transportation, our themed word searches feature a variety of travel-related topics. These puzzles are perfect for keeping you or your little ones entertained during long car rides, flights, or even just a lazy Sunday afternoon. Get ready to pack your bags and start exploring with our fun and free travel-themed word searches!.

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The Best Travel Puzzles For Enjoying Your Favorite Destinations At Home

No passport necessary..

When international travel isn't an option, but you still want to experience some of the greatest landmarks and destinations around the world, a travel-themed jigsaw puzzle could be just the way to go. See the Colosseum in Rome, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, or just about anywhere else without having to leave your living room. And the best part is that when you're finished you won't even have to worry about going through customs.

Provide hours of fun for the whole family with this colorful collage of vintage posters that will take you to exciting destinations such as Cuba, India, France, Australia, Hawaii, Jamaica, Switzerland, Hong Kong, and many more. The passionate attention to detail, color, and design make this puzzle truly stand apart from the rest.

Travel to some of the most romantic castles and palaces around the world with your passport to 40 different destinations. Downton Abbey has got nothing on this jigsaw puzzle.

Avoid the throngs of tourists, pickpockets, and selfie sticks for a visit to the largest amphitheater ever built at the time, which once held up to 80,000 spectators. With over 500 pieces, your family will stay captivated for hours.

Take a trip to the picturesque Positano cliffside village on southern Italy's Amalfi Coast with this challenging 1000-piece puzzle that is sure to supercharge your brain. When you're finished, preserve your hard work with the accompanying poster.

With vivid colors and breathtaking design, this circular planet earth puzzle can help with exercising logicality and sensory coordination, as well as promote hand-eye coordination and shape recognition.

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17 True Short Adventure Travel Stories That Will Inspire Your Next Trip

Note: This post sharing real adventure stories contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Love true short adventure travel stories or are you eager to discover thrilling experiences to have while traveling?

Then you’re in the right place!

I reached out to some of my favorite travel bloggers and asked them to share stories about their most epic adventures around the world.

While some of the following anecdotes showcase crazy travel stories or even travel fails , others offer up inspiring travel experience stories that were smooth sailing (or camping or hiking!) the whole way.

That being said, all of these stories have one thing in common: they share a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will inspire your travels.

Keep reading to discover these adventure travel tales. And feel free to add your own in the comments below!

Table of Contents

Where Should Your Next Travel Adventure Be? [Free Quiz]

But first, before we dive into our list of the best adventure short stories , I invite you to take my free travel personality quiz .

Answer a few easy (and fun!) questions to discover your perfect travel destination based on your personality. Each suggestion aims to offer a unique experience that you wouldn’t easily find in a guidebook.

Feel free to even pause to take the quiz and then let me know your results in the comments below.

Then when you’re back continue reading to dive into the most epic adventure stories online that you can find!

True Short Travel Adventure Stories In Real-Life

If you’re looking for true short adventure stories to read online, these are my favorites:

1. Trekking Nepal’s Mohare Danda Route

My adventure short story takes place in Nepal where I did the Mohare Danda Trek — which is no easy feat; however, in my opinion it is truly one of the best hiking trails in the world .

But, I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me explain. A few years back, I was invited on a press trip by the Nepal Tourism Board to experience some of the incredible experiences the country has to offer.

There were a number of itineraries to choose from, including doing a safari in the popular Chitwan National Park or doing the popular Poon Hill Trek. While both looked enticing, there was one itinerary, the Mohare Danda Trek, that looked less traversed — which helped to pique my interest.

The Mohare Danda is one of Nepal’s newest treks, opened in 2010 as an eco-trek to help support and develop the Parbat and Myagdi districts.

It’s a stunning hike, though my first day got off to a difficult start as I found myself violently ill.

Ascending higher and higher, sweat pouring down my face and my backpack threatening to pull me to the ground, I stopped constantly to gag and vomit — until we reached the high altitude teahouse where we’d be staying the night.

While the group went in for tea, I laid on the ground, nearly crying from the physical pain (from the challenging hike) and discomfort (from the sickness). In that moment, I truly didn’t think I could do it.

But then I opened my eyes to the beauty that surrounded me — the type of beauty you truly can’t find anywhere else — and realized that if I gave up now I’d never forgive myself.

And luckily, after skipping dinner and sleeping for 12 hours, the sickness subsided and I felt eager to experience this Himalayan hike.

Here is a quick overview of this amazing trek:

You’ll hike the rough but stunning terrain of the Annapurna Himalayas for five days, visiting high-altitude villages, passing yak and buffalo, and staying in homestays and small family-run hotels with squat toilets, spiders, and, for the most part, no showers.

The accommodations are rough to say the least, but as you gaze upon the high Himalayan peaks, interact with locals, and take in the nature that surrounds you, it’s hard not to feel immense gratitude for such a rugged and beautiful adventure.

This is particularly true when you reach the top of Mohare Danda at 3,313 meters (10,869 feet) and realize just how far you’ve come.

For an immersive look into what this adventurous trek is like, check out my video:

Tips: In terms of travel tips for this trek, I recommend looking for alternatives to popular travel adventures . While popular experiences and attractions are popular for a reason, seeking lesser-known activities often leads to more local and unique experiences.

Additionally, from a sustainable tourism standpoint it can help dispense tourism dollars to places that may need it and can help curb overtourism .

Also, bring medication for upset stomach and altitude sickness! I was vomitting on Day #1 and was grateful to have medication. Moreover, I had a throbbing headache when we reached the summit and was happy to have tiger balm with me.

2. Hiking in Georgia’s Greater Caucasus Mountains

Love uplifting travel stories ? Then this one is for you, because it shares how an adventure changed my outlook for the better.

Because here’s the thing:

I’ve never thought of myself as an adventurous traveler. I’m definitely not one for hiking – usually, the only thing that can get me to embark on a trek is the fear of missing out.

On my first trip to the Republic of Georgia, every traveler I met spoke about a hike in the Greater Caucasus mountains that I absolutely couldn’t miss.

The trek from Kazbegi town to Gergeti Trinity Church is a short one, but based on the church’s location atop a mountain, I knew it was going to be a tough climb – especially after six weeks of traveling around and living off khachapuri , the country’s famous “cheese pie”.

I arrived in Kazbegi on a cold, foggy afternoon and reluctantly woke up early the next day with the idea to hike to the church that morning. Luckily, a chance encounter over the breakfast table at my guesthouse saved me.

I got chatting with a couple who had done the hike the previous day and had a crucial tip for me: Don’t follow the main trail, but instead, take the path on the left side of the mountain.

As it turned out, the main route -– the trail everyone else was taking -– was impossibly steep, but the lesser-walked path was a gentle, ambling trail along a mountain stream.

Had I tried to take the main path, I never would have finished the walk; however, following this gentler route, I experienced something totally foreign: A hike I actually enjoyed! I felt so accomplished by the time I reached the church.

I’ve since moved to Georgia and have challenged myself to many other hikes in the Greater Caucasus. But if it weren’t for that first introduction to trekking in Georgia, I don’t think I would have had the courage to attempt any other trails.

“Adventure” means something different to everyone, but I think there’s an adventurous traveler inside all of us. Often it takes one positive experience to prove to yourself what you’re really made of.

Tip: When hiking in Georgia, always ask for advice from travelers on the ground. Trails and conditions change from year to year depending on the weather so it’s very important to gather first-hand information.

– Emily from Wander-Lush

3. Hitchhiking in Kazakhstan

My adventure trip story takes place in Kazakhstan! On my trip to Central Asia in 2019, I spent a couple of days in Kazakhstan exploring offbeat places such as Charyn Canyon, Kaindy Lake, Kolsai Lake, and so on.

As Kazakhstan is a relatively under-developed country, there is no good public transportation system once you move out of Almaty City.

However, one great thing about Kazakhstan is that hitchhiking is quite common, meaning it’s easy to get a lift to your destination.

During my 25-day stay in this country, there was a stretch of four-to-five days when I hitchhiked continuously and met some wonderful people.

I covered a stretch of over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) hitchhiking and had the chance to meet different people on the way. From a group of Russian friends who helped me reach the highway to army personnel who helped me reach my desired destination, I met so many people with different stories and backgrounds on this trip.

Most of the people with whom I hitchhiked were friendly and excited to know about my Indian heritage since they loved India. And this is how I fell in love with hitchhiking and had my faith in humanity restored in a foreign country.

An amazing thing about Kazakhstan is that it is a hitchhiking-friendly country, so anyone can travel around by hitchhiking; however, do keep in mind that you will find more options during the summer than the winter season when the roads are covered with snow and most of the lakes are frozen in this region as well. 

Tip: Start your day early as there are more vehicles available for hitchhiking during the morning than in the afternoon or night.

– Rachita from MeanderWander

4. Swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura, New Zealand

Many of my most adventurous travel stories come from my time living in New Zealand.

In November 2018, I decided to live life to the fullest and say yes to all of the adventures that came my way in the country.

This travel story is one of my favorite adventures: swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura.

I woke at 4am to a pitch-black hostel room, my eight roommates all still sound asleep at the early hour.

I snuck out on tiptoes to change, crammed a cheese roll in my mouth, and dragged the suitcase holding a year of my life to the Kaikoura dolphin-watching tour office.

With just a few hours of sleep in my system and more adrenaline than I had jumping out of a plane, I tugged on my insulated wetsuit in a blur.

The moment we dove off the water, I was shocked awake. No amount of coffee, tea, or sugar has ever given me such an intense wake-up. It turns out, the ocean is freezing at 5 am, before the sun has risen and in early-spring.

Don’t be scared off by the temperature, though, because 5am is when the dolphins are most playful!

For five seconds, I struggled to breathe through the cold. Then, the wetsuit flooded with water and I was warm.

A moment later, I was face to face with a wild dusky dolphin, one of the smallest species of dolphin in the world! Swimming with it, the dolphin twirled at the surface of the water while it spun in spirals beneath me.

I hummed strange Dory-esque whale noises to draw the attention of more members of the pod, including a tiny baby dolphin no bigger than my calf. He seemed most interested in the strange bug-eyed thing that kept getting tangled in her own flippers.

The sun rose, warming my back as I continued to flounder amongst the most elegant animals in the ocean. It was the most beautiful sight, watching as the dark blue of the ocean turned a sunny turquoise, brightening our swimming companions for the first few hours of dawn.

The practice of swimming with wild dolphins is banned in the North Island, where the species of Hector’s dolphins are in decline. But in Kaikoura, the practice is thriving and actually helping to restore the dolphin populations.

By supporting this adventurous experience, you’re supporting dolphin conservation.

– Nina of Nina Out and About

5. Canyoneering near Zion National Park 

One of my favorite adventure activities was canyoneering near Zion National Park in Utah, USA . The entire area around the national park has slot canyons, and these narrow canyons are often not much more than tubes carved by flash floods over the years.  

Many of them descend in a series of “steps” with sheer, tubular drops between short walks in the narrow canyons. Canyoneering is the adventure of rappelling on a rope down these drops and hiking from one to another.

This was my first time canyoneering, so I hired a guide, who had all the equipment and gave me detailed instructions on what to do. 

I’m not going to lie: the first was scary! Backing up to a sheer drop, putting your weight on a rope attached to an anchor, and then inching your feet over the edge requires a leap of faith. 

Then you make an actual leap and step down off the level ground and swing your feet against the vertical cliff face. Before you know it, you’re walking down a cliff! 

The first drop was 30 feet and it seemed a very, very long way down when peering over the edge from above.  By the end, I had traversed 12 drops in total, including one that was 200 feet deep! I soon overcame my fear and truly had one of the most fun days ever!

Tip: The best time to do this is in the fall when the summer heat has subsided but the winter snows haven’t set in. There are several outfitters in Springdale — the gateway to Zion National Park — that offer guided canyoneering trips.

By the way, if you’re interested in trekking, here are some of the best hiking trails in Utah (a number of which are in Zion!).

-James Ian from Parks Collecting

6. Hiking without a guide to Dzukou Valley of Nagaland, India

Looking for real life adventure stories in India ? Then this one is for you!

At 8,000 feet above sea level, Dzukou Valley is located in the northeastern state of Nagaland in India .

Having dreamed of visiting the valley since 2012, it was finally fulfilled in 2019, when I along with three other friends from Kerala and Uttar Pradesh went backpacking. 

We refrained from watching any videos or travel guides to make sure we embraced the journey in its purest form. When reaching Kohima — the capital of Nagaland — we ended up choosing the shorter and steeper Jakhama Trail for our Dzükou Valley Trek .

Beside a gushing river and the view of the highest of Jakhama Hills engulfed by the clouds, we marched ahead. Following the marked directions on the rocks, we ventured into a dense tropical evergreen forest. Splashing our face with the cold waters of a stream, we met a local who was descending the hill. 

He confirmed that we were on the right trail and motivated us with a picturesque description of the valley. Tuning in to the sereness of the forest, we would lay on the boulders and sing. I bet among the 500 bird species found in Nagaland, a few of them did sing back to us. 

The higher we hiked the steeper the trail became and once it turned 5pm, the hills turned darker.

Stepping on the narrow uneven precipitous trail with little left strength, we reached the top of Jakhama Hill to witness majestic reddish skies and the slumbering valley. We concluded the day dancing around the fire under the starry moonlit sky at the campsite.

The best thing about traveling without a guide or travel company was the fact that we could spend our time according to our will. We explored the valley for two consecutive days — walking into the unknown, dipping into the shivery waters of the Dzukou River, and sometimes only watching the valley for many hours from the top of a cave. 

To have experienced the beauty of Dzukou Valley both under murky and sunny skies, and the romanticism of clouds with the hills of the valley at night was magical.  

Tip: For flowers and views of the lush green valley against the clear blue skies, May to September is the best time to visit the Dzukou Valley. It snows from December to February, too.

– Joydeep from The Gypsy Chiring

7. Whale watching in New Zealand on a scenic flight

Who doesn’t love reading short adventure stories? This one will make you want to fly to New Zealand!

Being an admirer of our ocean and the marine life in it, I have always found whales and other beings very fascinating. During the whale migratory season every year, I usually take the whale watching boats to go see them in the water. 

I have seen them mostly either by boat or from land during my coastal walks; but when I visited Kaikoura in New Zealand, I was pleasantly amazed to learn about the whale watching scenic flight experience. The pictures and videos were exciting and very convincing.

Air Kaikoura runs this experience from a local airport at Kaikoura and the 20-minute flight costs NZD150 — and is completely worth it, as you follow migrating spem whales and see them from a bird’s eye view.

The experience of seeing such a huge mammal in its natural habitat as if you were a fly on the wall is something that can only be felt.

During the flight journey, one can also see other marine animals such as rays and dolphins — and, in fact, I saw many dolphin pods during my ride. Undoubtedly, this has been one of the coolest things I have done in New Zealand.

Tip: Even though the experience can be done throughout the year, the best time is in the winter season between the months of June and August. You’ll absolutely go home with some amazing adventure travel stories to share with friends after this experience! Whether you’re traveling solo in NZ or with friends, definitely add this to your itinerary.

– Raksha from SoloPassport

8. Climbing Mayan Pyramids in Yucatan, Mexico

For a truly adventurous Mexico travel experience, head to the Yucatan Peninsula to climb some Mayan pyramids.

While there are ancient ruins all over Mexico, they are somewhat spread out; however, in the Yucatan, there are many not far from one another.

Located in the center of the Yucatan, the colorful, colonial city of Merida is a great home base to explore ruins. There are so many things to do in Merida including a visit to the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins, the closest ruins to the city which are located in a Mexican national park.

Besides Dzibilchaltun (pronounced zee-bee-shall-tune), there’s Chichen Itza — one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though you can’t climb any pyramids there, Chichen Itza is still a highlight for many.

A bit more off the beaten path, there’s also Uxmal (pronounced yoush-mall), a UNESCO World Heritage Site similar in scale and importance to Chichen Itza, though you can climb the pyramids there.

Not far from Tulum , the Coba Ruins site is another great option. Located in the Yucatan jungle, Coba is a complete Mayan city where many rent a bike for the day to explore it all. The main pyramid, called Nohoch Mol or Ixmoja, is the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan that you can climb.

Another great Tulum day trip is to visit the nearby Ek-Balam Ruins. With elaborate stone carvings of giant masks throughout the site and pyramids you can climb, this is among the best off-the-beaten-path ruins sites in Mexico.

With about 200 public Mayan archeological sites throughout the Yucatan Peninsula, there are other great less-visited sites. These include Kohunlich Ruins near Bacalar Lagoon, Mayapan Ruins near Merida, Becan Ruins in Campeche, and the San Miguelito Ruins in Cancun .

Tip: Arrive at the ruins as early as you can! Many Mexico archeological sites have been cleared of trees and have no shaded areas, so it gets very hot. Arriving early means not climbing pyramids in the midday sun and also avoiding the crowds.

-Shelley from Travel to Merida

9. Horseback riding on a black sand beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico

Vieques, a tiny island off the east coast of Puerto Rico , is known for having some of the best beaches in the world; however, on the south shore of Vieques, a unique-looking beach with black sand exists.

There are only two ways to get to this secluded beach — hiking through the bushes following the muddy stream or horseback riding through the lush tropical forest down to Playa Negra (Black Sand Beach).

The Viequenses love their Paso Finos — a breed of horse prized for their gait. The moment you exit the airport, the horses are the first to greet you and you will see them roaming freely all over the island.  

The gait of the Paso Fino is smooth, comfortable, and perfect for all riding levels, including kids. And horseback riding allows for adventure, fitness, fresh air, and sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone.

Moreover, it also allows you to travel off the beaten path and go to places inaccessible by car or foot. 

So, what is adventure travel ?

Well, I can say that riding through the lush tropical forest past sugar mill ruins down the trail to Playa Negra is only the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. 

Once your horse steps off the path onto the beach, you’ll take in the panoramic view of the crystal blue Caribbean ocean. The golden sand mixed with shiny black volcanic material with the backdrop of a rocky cliff is shocking and dramatic, and you will feel like you are at the end of the earth.

Riding the Paso Finos is mainly slow and steady but occasionally speeds up to a moderate speed called Paso Corto. But, if you are a more advanced rider, there is no better place in the world to experience cantering on horseback down the beach.

Tips: Here are a few pieces of advice for planning your Paso Fino experience on Playa Negra in Vieques.

• Reserve through Esperanza Riding Company — the tours are perfect for inexperienced riders, kids, and experienced equestrians, too.
• With temperatures averaging between 73 and 88 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, the perfect time to ride is anytime.
• Wear closed-toed shoes. Long pants are great, too, but not necessary.
• Plan on getting a little wet and maybe muddy.
• Know that helmets are mandatory.
• Use sunscreen and bug repellent.
• Bring your camera; you won’t want to miss the photo opportunity of a lifetime.

– Jenny from TravelingPartyof4

10. Completing the 9-day “O” trek in Torres del Paine

Once upon a time, a naive group of budget travelers thought it’d be cool to hike the famous “O” Trek in Torres del Paine in southern Chilean Patagonia. The trek takes nine days (give or take) depending on your experience. 

We had no experience. 

In fact, my wife had never even hiked, slept in a tent, or even been camping in her entire life. She had no idea what I had signed her up for.

As good budget travelers do, we cut costs wherever possible. Instead of renting backpacking gear as most people do, I thought my regular travel backpack would suffice.

Instead of paying extra for expensive lightweight backpacking meals, we bought cheap tuna, pasta, and other heavy canned goods. 

And our biggest mistake, instead of calculating how many meals we needed to fuel four long-distance hikers for nine days (which, if you’re wondering, is 4 people x 3 meals x 9 days = 108 meals), we just filled up our grocery cart and called it good.

Thanks to improper gear and heavy food, our backs were killing us on the first few days. Our genius solution?

Throw common sense to the wind and eat like kings to lighten the load!

This brilliant idea came back to bite us around Day 5 when the food “magically” disappeared. At our lowest point, our lunch — the meal meant to fuel an afternoon of heavy hiking — consisted of a handful of plain mashed potatoes and an apple…

…split between four people!

Fortunately, some of the camps on the last days of the trek sold food, so we survived. Still, it was a rough couple of days, and I swear I saw my wife eyeing my meaty thighs and licking her lips at one point.

Despite our struggles, it was an adventure of a lifetime, and I wouldn’t trade our experience for the world.  

So, while I love the saying, “Adventure starts where plans end,” when it comes to the O trek (or any multi-day trek) some planning is probably a wise move.

Tips: For one, if you don’t have a real backpacking backpack, rent one. Don’t be cheap like I was — your body will thank you for it.

Second, don’t just take what you think looks like a lot of food. Instead, calculate every meal. And again, don’t be cheap like I was. Even if the dried backpacking meals are pricey, they are 100% worth it. Turns out, cans of tuna and beans aren’t fun to lug around on your back for days at a time. 

– Mitch Glass from Project Untethered

11. Hiking Mount Etna 

One of our top-pick short story travel adventures takes place in Mount Etna, Italy.

Hiking Mount Etna has to be high on any bucket list when road tripping Sicily. Etna is the largest and most active of Italy ’s three live volcanoes and last erupted in February 2021!

But don’t let that put you off! The volcanologists who monitor the site always know when Etna is planning to let the world know she’s still got it!

This is not a hike for the faint-hearted — you don’t need any special skills but you do need determination and a degree of fitness to get to the top at 3,350 meters (10,991 feet).

That being said, you don’t need to climb all that way from sea-level — from the main car park at Rifugio Sapienza you’ll take the cable car to a station half-way up the volcano. Once there, you’ll hop on a specially designed 4×4 bus which takes you even higher. 

The final leg that you have to hike will take a couple of hours and you’ll gain about 400 meters (1,312 feet) in elevation. You’ll spend a lot of time traversing over ash and old lava fields, with heat from deep in the earth radiating up around you. 

The summit surrounding the main crater is like a moon-scape; you’re above the clouds here and it’s eerily quiet, other than the long, low rumbles of magma coming from the craters, of which there are five!

You may also feel really cold at the top — there is often some snow and ice year-round, so even though you’ve got the world’s most efficient heated floor under you, the air can be freezing due to the altitude.

Standing on the edge of the crater looking down is pretty awe-inspiring. This opening into the earth is vast, full of sulphur gas swirling, heat rising, and magma spitting. As you look in, take a moment to appreciate just how insignificant you are compared to Mother Nature!

Coming down is easier but just as interesting, as you’ll walk between two crater edges on a narrow path, take huge leaps through soft ash, and finally arrive back at your 4×4 bus ready to take you back down to civilization.

Tip: You must book a guided hike if you want to get to Mount Etna’s summit. There are no signed routes or marked paths, and the best way up can change daily as the mountain moves. 

Sulphurous gasses are also a danger, especially on windy days and Etna’s guides are trained to help you stay safe as you head for the summit of one of Europe ’s top hikes.

-Phil and Izzy from The Gap Decaders

12. Backcountry camping in Zion National Park

Hiking and backcountry camping along the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park continues to stand out as one of the best outdoor adventures my husband and I have shared together.

The natural beauty, breathtaking views, and opportunity to feel completely alone in one of the United States ‘ most popular national parks really solidified the entire experience for us.

Starting at the Grotto trailhead along the main road in Zion, our hike involved climbing 6.6 miles to the top of the western plateau of Zion Canyon and gaining 3,100 feet of elevation. 

Our route passed through the notoriously difficult Walter’s Wiggles and went far above Angel’s Landing. It was a challenging, muscle-burning, and overall exhausting climb — especially with all of our camping gear, food, and water loaded up in our backpacks.

However, the higher we climbed the better the views became, and the more we felt that the effort was worth every step. By the time we reached the top, the West Rim Trail had completely exceeded all of our expectations. 

The incredible views overlooking Zion’s magnificent canyons, the unique desert rocks, landscapes, and wildlife –not to mention the magical feeling of being on top of the world while standing at the rim of the plateau — made us forget about all the sweat and exertion it took to get to the top.

In total, it took us six hours to reach our campsite and we arrived with just enough time to set up our tent, prepare some instant noodles for dinner, and watch the sunset from the rim of the plateau. 

We spent the remainder of the night relaxing and watching the sky transition from brilliant orange to multiple shades of deep, dark blues and gazing at the stars in the clear sky. It was the perfect way to end the day.

Tips: The West Rim Trail can be hiked as a backpacking overnight or as an out-and-back day hike depending on your experience and fitness level.

For anyone looking to hike the West Rim Trail, we highly recommend stopping at the ranger stations for updates on trail conditions, weather, and advice before heading out on the trail.

If you’re planning to camp overnight, you’ll also need to stop at Zion’s backcountry office to secure your backcountry permits in advance of your trip!

-Stephanie from Travanie Travels

13. Hiking the Binongan Trail in the Philippines’ Abra Province

The Binongan Trail is a three-to-four day hike from Vira — the main town in Tineg — to the village of Poblacion in the Lacub municipality summiting two mountains along the way. The Binongan River is one of the main river arteries in Abra.

Leaving Vira behind we began hiking through the grasslands of the Apao Rolling Hills, following trails that have been used for centuries by the local villagers.

Our destination: the village of Apao, where we stopped for lunch before an exhilarating climb to the summit and campsite of Mt Pisusok at 1,124 meters (3,688 feet). Here, we had wonderful 360-degree views of Abra. 

Rising early for sunrise and the traverse hike to Mt Bangseg, known locally as the Black Rock Mountain, we had our first sight of the meandering Binongan River below. 

Upon reaching the river — which we had to wade across sometimes waist-deep — the cool water was so inviting that once we safely reached the other bank we swam and played around for a while before continuing on our way.

Our target for the day was the village of Lablabinag, a three-hour hike away, where we arrived just before dark.

Lablabi Nag is a very small village, more of a hamlet really, with just 11 houses. The village chief welcomed us and showed us an empty house where we would be staying for the night, while the women prepared our evening meal.

The next morning the village chief invited us to join their golden carp fishing party. January is the best time to be around for this as the carp make their way back downstream to spawn.

Every man had a role to play. There were “spotters” high up on the rocks whose job was to spot the golden carp and yell the location to the fishermen in the water. With their spear guns in hand, they quickly dove into the clear waters and most times came up triumphantly. 

They were exceptional swimmers and it was fascinating watching their expertise.

For me, this really was the highlight of the trip and an insight into the lives of villagers in a remote area of the Philippines.

We were treated to a delicious golden carp lunch before sadly leaving the kind people of Lablabi Nag behind and hiking three hours along this gorgeous river to Lacub where our Jeepney was waiting.

To this day, this is one of my favorite adventure short stories to share.

Tip: The best time to hike this trail is during the cooler months from November to February. You will pass through several small villages along the way. Pack a few bags of sweets to share with the children and you will make instant friends!

The most important thing is to enjoy the hike, do it slowly, and appreciate the wonderful scenery and people along the way.

-Dave from Silver Backpacker

14. Camping in Australia’s Outback

There is no bigger adventure than going on a camping trip in the Australian Outback.

Only the coastal areas of Australia are densely populated. The center is mostly a desert region that mainly consists of vast farmlands and bare regions. 

The roads are mostly unsealed and in some areas, there is absolutely nothing for hundreds or even thousands of kilometers. 

Crossing the Outback is not an easy task and taking the appropriate gear is extremely important. 

In 2017 we drove from north to south in Australia driving across thousands of kilometers of desert land. Instead of a Four Wheel Drive truck, we were driving a 1994 Toyota camper van with a broken AC and a dodgy battery. 

If you drove more than 50 kilomters-per-hour the side mirrors would flap in because the wind was too strong against the old screws of the van. Since there was no AC we had to drive with the windows down — but in the desert that means lots and lots of sand. 

Every night we’d have to clean out the entire inside of the van and the sand got so bad that the lock of the back door would jam and would have to be disassembled so it could open again.

It took more than a week to cross the Outback and we saw more kangaroos, emus, dingos, and camels than you can imagine. It was a magical trip. The landscapes of the Australian Outback are absolutely fascinating and so different than anything most tourists experience.

The people living in these remote areas are very sociable and welcoming towards travelers. I made so many friends during this time who I will never forget.

Tip: A trip through the Australian Outback is no joke though and shouldn’t be underestimated. Always make sure you have the right equipment and are carrying enough food and water to sustain yourself for at least a week in case you break down. It’s a dangerous landscape so don’t take any risks.

-Victoria from Guide your Travel

15. Hiking the Iceland Interior

The very name “ Iceland ” emanates adventure and beckons the explorer in all of us.

As soon as you leave Reykjavík you are in a boundless wonderland of rugged coasts, dramatic cliffs drenched in waterfalls, and a wilderness at once inviting and foreboding. 

The reality is, Iceland has been subdued to a large extent to accommodate a growing number of visitors each year. And while even the tourist attractions are worth a visit, some of us want a little more adventure. 

Fortunately, Iceland has that covered, too. While the outer edge of the island is conveniently connected by well-paved roads, Icelanders have left generous portions unpaved and untamed. 

The result is the Highlands in Iceland’s Interior. Cut off from the rest of the island by a foreboding river crossing, only the skilled guide or the foolhardy traveler would dare cross. 

Either way, you’ll be in great company if you make it. 

Beware that your insurance won’t cover your normal car rental in the river, so cross at your own risk. A much drier and more economical way across is to have a guide pick you up in a Land Rover.

Barreling down the two-track you seem to be heading further into the badlands. Surrounded now by towering volcanoes, the tracks disappear into a raging river. 

Just when you think there is no way you are going in there, your driver locks into 4WD-Low Range and points the nose into the river. 

As the water climbs higher, you begin to realize just how deep this torrent is. You can see it’s over the bumper, then the tires. You look out the side door and the water is just cresting at the bottom of the window. Talk about an adventurous trip story !

At this moment you are depending on the little contact of your four wheels to keep your grip, a small snorkel to keep the engine running, and the hope that you got the right driver. Even though he’s smiling, you can’t help but feel uneasy. 

Soon enough though he has adeptly maneuvered the truck through the current and you are now on the other side. Or rather, in the middle of two rivers. 

But I will tell you, the second crossing is even more fun! Now you’re all smiling, on your way to what was calling you in the first place: a backcountry adventure. 

Soon you arrive at your destinati: a small compound with the conveniences of a hostel, the luxuries of glamping, or a campground you can settle into for a couple of days. 

Days that you will spend hiking among some (hopefully) dormant volcanoes including Katla, Eldgjá, Vatnafjöll, Laki, and Eyjafjallajökull, which last erupted in 2010.

Among the volcanoes, you will find a labyrinth of trails. You are at the intersection of two main hiking arteries: the Fimmvörðuháls and the Landmannalaugar trails.

Both of these are long-distance trails and offer an alternative to driving in. Which is an adventure in its own right. But why would you want to miss that river crossing?

Tips: If you are inspired to try this yourself, go-between mid-September and late October. These months offer the best of all worlds: smaller crowds for more seclusion and longer nights for more chances of seeing the Northern Lights. 

And the earlier sunset gives you an excuse to knock off early after an exhilarating but exhausting day exploring the Highlands of Iceland. 

– Steve from Maps Over Coffee

16. Hiking the Tongariro Crossing in winter

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the best hikes in New Zealand . Located on the country’s North Island in Tongariro National Park, this trail intersects an awe-inspiring landscape of mountain peaks, dazzling lakes, and active volcanoes.

It’s no wonder that the Lord of the Rings film franchise chose this location for Mordor, and you can spot Mount Doom — or Mount Ngauruhoe as it’s more formally known — rising up like a rocky gatekeeper. 

In summer, the Tongariro Crossing is a popular trail for hiking enthusiasts, but in winter, it’s a different ball game. The highest points of the trail are covered in a blanket of snow. It’s an otherworldly scene that makes you think you’re on the surface of the moon. 

Winter also makes the trail more intrepid. The weather is unpredictable and without the right equipment or knowledge, it can get dangerous. 

I was coming to the end of my New Zealand trip and decided to do the Tongariro Crossing as a last hurrah. But there was a problem. It was winter and I wasn’t an experienced hiker. 

I arrived at the nearby town of Taupo and told my hostel of my intentions. They said they could set me up with a specialist group tour guide that would give me the equipment I needed and take me across the trail. I just needed to wait for good weather to make sure it was safe.

Luckily, I had some flexibility. 

A few days later, it was time. I was picked up and kitted out. We began our ascent through the park, passing lava flows and wheezing up the steep Devil’s Staircase until we reached snow-topped craters. 

We learned how to catch ourselves with ice axes — fun, and necessary in case you slipped off the edge — and hoicked ourselves up wind-blasted ridges with crampons strapped to our feet until at last, we made it to the top. We stopped for lunch before following the trail to the end where refreshments were waiting. 

Hiking the Tongariro Crossing in winter wasn’t easy, but it was certainly an experience I will never forget. The scenery alone was jaw-dropping, to say the least. It was just you and the elements up there. 

Tip: To do this hike in winter, I recommend giving yourself some flexibility as you might have to wait for the weather to be safe enough. Always go with a reputable tour guide too. 

– Francesca from Little Lost Travel

17. Exploring the backcountry of Algonquin Provincial Park

After having graduated from high school, I wanted to spend a week exploring the backcountry of Algonquin Provincial Park. This region of Ontario in Canada is famous for its tranquil lakes, stunning forests, and diverse wildlife. 

I had decided to go on this trip by myself because I wanted to spend some time alone to reconnect with nature.

So, I got out my 60L Osprey backpack and filled it to the top with my tent, my sleeping bag, camping stove, hiking shoes, and lots of food. The plan was to hike the 70-kilometer (44-mile) Western Upland Backpacking Loop in seven days, which is pretty manageable.

I wanted to get more distance at the beginning when my legs were still fresh. On the first day, I hiked for 22 kilometers (14 miles) and everything went well.

Although I was optimistic, I was also a bit skeptical because something always goes wrong on trips like these — plus I was hiking alone. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case and I had a total blast.

The sky was clear and the sun was out that entire week. One thing I always like to do is camp near a lake so I can swim in the afternoons — which is why I also packed a pool noodle!

Actually, I hiked through the loop so quickly that the last few days I barely had any distance left. This meant I got to relax with a book by myself while immersed in nature.

There was a lot of doubt from my parents as to whether or not I could backpack by myself, but I think I proved to them that I could do it. It was an unforgettable experience and I will definitely return to Algonquin for more.  

Tip:  Having said that, if I were to redo the same trip again, I would definitely go in the fall. When I did my hike in early June, the bugs were quite annoying in some places. I have seen photos of the gorgeous Algonquin fall foliage before so I can only imagine what they’d look like in person.

-John from Your Destination is Everywhere

Adventure Tourism Travel Insurance

When embarking on an adventure, make sure to get travel insurance.

One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Bonus Short Travel Stories Collections:

25 Crazy Travel Stories You Need To Read To Believe

23 Inspiring Travel Stories Sharing The Kindness Of Strangers

16 Short Funny Travel Stories That Will Make You Laugh Out Loud

38 Inspiring Travel Love Stories From The Road

21 Travel Horror Stories Sharing Scary Travel Experiences

8 Crazy NYC Subway Stories That Will Make You Hail A Cab

A Host’s Perspective: My Worst Airbnb Horror Stories

11 Epic Travel Fail Stories From The Road

18 Scary Travel Stories From Haunted Hotels To Creepy Cabins

What true short adventure travel stories would you add to this list?

Enjoyed this list of travel adventure stories in English? Pin it for later!

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Hi Jessie, I will like your story lines. Very detailed and wonderful information. I will consider visiting some of the places listed in your stories following some of your traveling tips as well. GREAT job and thanks for sharing.

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Mystery of the archipelago, greenpixel ltd, designed for ipad.

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Engaging Casual Adventure Game! Are you a fan of fun merge games? If you enjoy playing computer & video games to unwind after a busy day or travel games on your phone, immerse yourself in an unparalleled fun merge puzzle casual game experience packed with a captivating story and thrilling exploration. Engage in thrilling adventure games, merge and combine items, and create new ones as you progress through the game. A captivating adventure and casual game for any occasion! Experience the adventure of Casual Merging Games like never before as you strategically merge your way through various challenges and obstacles. In this fun merge game journey, embark on a quest with Elsa, venturing to a mesmerizing archipelago filled with mysteries waiting to be uncovered. As you merge items to progress in the merging game and create new elements, you'll find yourself drawn deeper into the heart of the travel games adventure. Merge Your Way to Victory Merge Adventure stands out among other merging games and travel games alike; it's a story-driven and fun merge game extravaganza! Join Elsa as she leaves behind the comforts of her hotel renovation project to answer her uncle's call to the mystical archipelago. Here, every corner holds a new secret, treasure, or challenge, making it the ultimate destination for merging game enthusiasts and travel game aficionados. From abandoned temples to lush jungles, every location offers a unique merge puzzle waiting to be solved. But beware, for not everything is as it seems; the islands are fraught with peril, from the threat of a mysterious company to the eerie disappearance of Elsa's uncle's friend, the famous traveler. It's up to you to unravel the mysteries, restore the tourist city to its former glory, and transform the archipelago into the ultimate vacation paradise! Welcome to Merge Adventure, the go-to merge game that takes you on a journey like no other! Dive into an immersive blend of merge puzzle mechanics and captivating storytelling as you join Elsa on an unforgettable adventure to a mysterious archipelago. Get ready to merge, explore, and unravel the secrets of this mesmerizing world! Embark on a New Adventure Join Elsa as she leaves her hotel renovation project behind to answer her uncle's call and venture into the unknown. Immerse yourself in a rich narrative filled with twists, turns, and unexpected surprises at every corner. Explore a diverse range of locations, from ancient ruins to lush jungles, each with its own fun merge puzzles, travel games, and mysteries waiting to be solved. Uncover Mysteries and Solve Merge Puzzles Put your problem-solving skills to the test as you encounter and overcome challenging merging games throughout your journey. Uncover the mysteries of the archipelago in a thrilling travel game as you delve deeper into its secrets and uncover hidden treasures. Restore The Island Town Take on the role of a restoration expert as you work to rebuild the tourist city and restore it to its former glory. Travel games like this bring about many challenges to unravel, letting you restore and decorate the island town and make it a perfect oasis. Experience a Variety of Gameplay Modes Dive into a mix of genres and moods and enjoy an array of travel games. Dive into action-packed adventures, mysterious quests, romantic encounters, and architectural challenges. Participate in time-limited merging games to find secret treasure rooms, craft new tools, and generate energy and progress in a merge game. Enjoy Seamless Gameplay Anytime, Anywhere Play your favorite merge game that combines fun and adventure whenever you want to unwind while on the move. Engage in relaxing merge puzzle gameplay suitable for players of all ages, making it the perfect game for everyone in the family. Immerse yourself in a world of merging games! Experience the excitement of merging, exploring, and storytelling like never before.

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Choose your own adventure: Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

Revenge travel is so last year.

“It's not necessarily about just getting out of the house anymore,” said Sydney Stanback, Global Insights and Trends lead at Pinterest, which has seen more than 1 billion travel searches and more than 10 billion travel saves over the past year. 

Sure, many of the usual suspects are once again among the most popular destinations across multiple search engines this year, but she said this summer, “It's more so about traveling with intention.” 

According to NerdWallet’s Summer 2024 Travel Report , 45% of Americans plan to take a trip requiring a hotel stay or flight this summer with expenses averaging just under $3,600. A fifth of those travelers expect to go into debt to pay for vacations.

Here’s what to consider when booking a summer trip, including where to go, when to travel and how to save:

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What is the best place to travel in summer? 

The answer is subjective, especially this summer.

“Everyone's kind of choosing their own adventure based off of what their needs are for travel,” Stanback said. 

Pinterest’s Summer 2024 Travel Report found summer travelers are most interested in adventure, exploring mysterious or uncharted destinations, and rest. Searches for “quiet life” jumped 530%, but that doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.

“My mother actually just took a yoga retreat to Panama,” Stanback said. “That's what she needed to do in order to get the rest that she needed and the well-being that she needed. But for me, when I think of rest and restoration, I simply think about going to a beach spa and just sitting and being by myself.”

Solo travel remains popular. Solo travel searches reached an all-time high in Google in January, but again, not for everyone.

“For Gen Z specifically, that need is to gather and reconnect with their community because they were in isolation for so long and during very meaningful moments in their lives,” Stanback said. She noted group travel and road trips are of keen interest to Gen Z.

“It's not necessarily about traveling and going out and going to restaurants and going to bars and clubs,” she added. “We actually see that a lot with younger generations. They’re kind of stepping away from that and really considering their well-being when they're taking time off.”

Where do most tourists go in summer?

Expedia’s Summer Outlook and Google Flights identified the same cities among their most searched summer 2024 destinations based on flights, though rankings varied by platform.

Top 5 domestic destinations 

◾ Orlando, Florida

◾ Los Angeles

◾ Las Vegas

Top 5 international destinations

◾ Cancun, Mexico

◾ Paris, host of the Summer Olympics

Allianz Partners found slightly different results in their analysis of “more than six million flight itineraries for trips between five and eight days in length for travel booked between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.”

Instead of LA and Vegas, Allianz named Boston and Honolulu among this summer’s top five domestic destinations. Internationally, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, made Allianz’s top five, instead of Rome, Paris and Tokyo.

“I am expecting crowds to rival last summer's in popular overseas cities,” Expedia’s travel expert Melanie Fish said, noting how places like Barcelona and Venice are trying to curb overtourism. “They're trying fees and if that's not enough, they're going to have to go even further.”

How can I save on a trip?

Summer trips are already costly for many travelers. “Americans with household income under $100,000 accounted for nearly half (46%) of intended leisure travel spend in summer 2023,” according to Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report from April.

Expedia’s Fish shared five tips for booking summer 2024 vacations:

◾ Bundle your trip. Booking airfare and a hotel at the same time can earn you deep discounts.

◾ Travel midweek or later in the summer if it's an option. You'll save money and save yourself from fighting crowds. 

• ◾ Fly early in the day … The early bird who takes the first flight of the day will typically get a better price and a lower chance of delays and cancellations. ◾ Book once, earn twice. You can stack rewards from your travel credit card (and) your airline.◾ Just go. Don't pressure yourself to create the trip of a lifetime … Do it in a bite-sized chunk if possible. 

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

How far ahead should I book travel?

“The sweet spot is now,” Fish said. “We're within that 21- to 60-day pre-travel window to save around 15% on airfare, so now is the time to plan. That means ready, set, but maybe wait until August to actually go.”

She said travelers can save an average of $250 on international flights if they wait until the peak summer travel season passes. 

“It's 15% cheaper on average to fly domestically in August versus June, 30% cheaper to fly to Europe in late summer, and 55% cheaper to fly to Mexico and the Caribbean in August,” she said. “Of course, August is peak hurricane season , so that has something to do with that price dip.”

Best Sellers in San Jose California Travel Books

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15 Soft Adventure Travel Ideas for Baby Boomers

A dventure travel is a hot travel niche these days, one of the fastest-growing segments of the travel industry in recent years.  For many Baby Boomer travelers, myself included, it trends a little more to the soft adventure rather than the rugged, hard adventure activities we may previously have enjoyed. 

Those busy adventure days are often followed by a glass of good wine, a good meal, and a comfy bed (bonus when it’s luxury accommodations). My needs are simple – some active travel and adventure, right along with a little luxury travel, too.

Here are some of the best ways to enjoy soft adventure tourism right now, whether you’re staying close to home here in the United States or venturing further afield.

1. Ziplining

A decade or so ago, the only place I knew where you could go zip lining was in the rainforest or exotic destinations. Now it’s gone mainstream. You’ll find zipline adventures offered at all-inclusive resorts, tourist destinations, cruise ships, zoos, eco-lodges, urban areas, and more. You might be surprised to see opportunities offered in the middle of the city where you live, or somewhere close by.

If you’ve never tried it before, ziplining should be on your bucket list . The adrenaline rush that comes with it and the feeling of ultimate freedom can make for a great adventure. I wanted to love ziplining, but it is one of those experiences that just isn’t for me. I have a fear of edges and the anxiety involved in taking the first step off the platform is paralyzing. The time between platforms is exhilarating – that part I love – I just can’t take that first step.

No matter where you are, or where you are traveling, you can find tour operators that offer zip lining experiences.

2. Horseback Riding

It’s not just a trail ride down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon anymore. You can ride horses in different destinations, from a ride in the park, in the hills, or on the beach. And let’s not underestimate the pure enjoyment of a relationship between you and your horse.

A desert sunrise ride can be a meditative experience, and a ride through vineyards is a fun way to combine outdoor adventure with wine tasting. Dude ranches aren’t a City Slicker experience. This niche of the tourism industry now offers authentic ranch experiences right along with delicious food and comfortable lodging. Why not opt to combine a sightseeing adventure or eco-tourism with a horseback ride so you can leave motorized vehicles behind? Or enjoy a ride on the beach that may turn into a splash in the ocean thanks to special equipment.

3. Viewing Wildlife

Safari holidays aren’t just in Kenya anymore. You can choose a wildlife adventure in Africa, Asia, Oceania, or South America . From a savannah safari on the Serengeti, Tanzania, to whale watching in Kaikoura, New Zealand, to enjoying penguins in the Galapagos Islands, the possibilities to see wildlife in a natural environment have become plentiful.

This adventure travel option has become very popular with affluent baby boomers with high disposable income. These are often once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences with price tags to match. Some tours have higher activity levels required, while others have a slower pace, so make sure your choice matches up with your preferred  travel plans . 

Do your research and due diligence, get recommendations from friends, and find a safari or wildlife tour that creates your perfect balance of price and  memorable  experience. We’re at the beginning stage of planning for a safari, and we’ll be tapping on the expertise of friends as we start the process.

While many Baby Boomers may be past the point of wanting a white-water rafting category 4 or 5, there are still lots of fun recreational rafting options. Whether it’s float trips, rafting wine trips, enjoying one of the national parks, or just cooling off on the water, this is a great way to have a soft adventure vacation.

Rafting trips can be an afternoon break or multi-day trips with camping and free time at the end of the day on the river. Experience isn’t generally required, and guides are trained to navigate in a way that provides an enjoyable experience. Some participants will man the paddles, while others are just along for the ride. Warning, though, just like those amusement park rides, you may get wet

5. Kayaking and Canoeing

For a more do-it-yourself day on the water, kayaking and canoeing can appeal to different age groups. Some skill is involved, although I consider it more practice than expertise. If you’re in a tandem kayak, there’s a fair amount of patience required, especially if you and your partner have different experience levels. 

This is another adventure activity that may not require you to go too far from home. Kayaks and canoes are becoming increasingly affordable for home use, and if you live near a lake, river, or other body of water, buying a kayak or canoe can be a good vacation expenditure.

We’ve kayaked on a shore excursion on a cruise in the Norwegian fjords and as part of a small ship cruise in Panama. We’re not good at it, and there are occasional squabbles, but we still think it’s fun and get better at it every time. Give it a try, this might be a new activity that you’ll enjoy.

One of the simplest soft adventure activities is hiking. You can hike nearly anywhere and in almost any type of weather, although let’s be honest, hiking in the rain kind of sucks. Specialized equipment isn’t needed, although I recommend a sturdy pair of shoes if you’re logging any distance or dealing with uneven terrain.

You can hike around the block, in a park, or find a nearby trail, it’s all about getting out in nature and enjoying some physical activity. While most of us aren’t going to go mountain climbing or rock climbing, I’m not able to tackle that type of hard adventure travel activity, there’s nothing like a brisk hike that takes us to a spectacular viewing area to give us a travel high.

7. Trekking

A little more advanced activity level than hiking, trekking is merely going places on foot that you cannot reach by other transportation. You’re not blazing the way but sticking to trails and doing a lot of walking. I think of it as hiking for lots of days, with stops in between (camping or lodging) before continuing on the journey.

Your overall fitness level and budget will help shape your trekking choices. – you may be carrying everything yourself, or you may have the use of a sherpa. Some popular trek options include the Inca Trail in Peru, the Camino de Santiago in Spain, or the Himalayan in Nepal.

While the Great Barrier Reef may be the ultimate scuba diving spot (and one day I will go to Australia), there are plenty of other great diving spots worldwide. Find a coastline, and chances are you’ve got dozens of choices to make. Warm water diving seems to win out over cold water, though, so the Caribbean,  Hawaii , Florida, and Southern California all regularly make lists of the best places for diving.

If you’re not ready to go deep, there’s always snorkeling. While I’m not a strong swimmer, I’ve been able to enjoy snorkeling even though I’m very much a novice at it. I get more proficient every time I try it, and my comfort zone is slowly expanding.

9. Jeep and ATV Tours

I think of this as hiking for vehicles. Seriously, though, you can rent a car and do this on your own or join up with a tour for a group experience. I’ve enjoyed jeep tours as part of a day trip at a conference. 

You can try a jeep, scooter, ATV, moped, or SUV in the dunes, the jungle, mountains, and city streets. I have always loved this type of activity and always like to check out tour companies who put a creative spin on it.

10. Glamping

A little bit camp and a little bit glamour, glamping has become the buzzword for bragging that you’re camping while still enjoying a little luxurious glamour. The term seems a bit over-used these days, but we still like to look for new options on the theme.

Think fully outfitted tents in the desert, complete with a chef and staff. Maybe a fully appointed yurt, tree houses that rival any view home you’ve ever seen, or beach properties that are so far off the beaten path. that you didn’t know they existed. Sure, you could make it sound like you’re roughing it – but we know you’re not!

11. Wine Tasting

An appealing soft adventure that’s gaining popularity among baby boomers, we work wine tasting into all of our leisure trips (and a fair number of business trips as well). We love discovering new wines and wineries, learning about the cultural experiences associated with wine and wine production, and learning new things about wine. Wine tourism has become a popular niche market for travel and we recommend you give it a try.

There are fine wineries and beautiful vineyards around the world. I’ve enjoyed wine tastings in Europe and Asia, and can’t wait to get to try Malbec in Argentina and Pinotage in South Africa. Here in the United States, popular wine-tasting areas are Sonoma and Napa Valley wine country (both in California), the Finger Lakes Region (in New York), and the Willamette Valley (in Oregon). Closer to home, we’ve been visiting tasting rooms in the greater -Seattle area and have loved discovering new sips (more on Washington’s AVAs here). 

Whether you’re a wine aficionado or merely relish a glass of fine wine, you can plan an itinerary with a partner or group of friends and sample award-winning wines pretty much anywhere you travel. Or maybe discover something new that’s close to home.

12. Fishing

A fun way to combine adventure and luxury on a vacation along rivers, lakes, or open seas. Fishing tourism will help you bond with nature in serene settings in renowned waterways or on small fishing ponds that few have ever heard of.

A guided fishing trip can focus on salmon, tuna, trout, or more. Put together a family or group trip, or sign up for a solo adventure, joining other fishing aficionados. Whether you choose deep-sea fishing or angling on a lake, remember that fishing can be a time-consuming passion. Use care in matching up the right experience for your patience level.

13. Birdwatching

Birding is a near-effortless way for baby boomers to enjoy outdoor activities. Or even in a city backyard. It’s an inexpensive endeavor as the equipment (and also energy) needed is minimal. You’re good to go with a set of binoculars, a field guide or some other identification book. Add in a notebook, and a hat to shield you from the sun, and you’re ready for a bird watching afternoon.

I have an Audubon Guide at home that I constantly refer to when I’m looking at birds in my backyard. It’s also small enough to pack for travel, so you can learn what you’re seeing wherever you travel. Small ships cruising often offer port excursions that include bird and wildlife viewing. On a river cruise, you’re moving slow enough you can spot birds from the top deck. Or, you can opt for more exotic trips – individual exploration or group tours –  in Costa Rica , Indonesia, or the Galapagos.

14. Barge Cruising

Barge cruising  is a trendy travel idea among baby boomers, but it’s not just for older adults. It also makes a great multi-generational trip, especially when you find a smaller barge that is just for your group. It’s a fantastic way to explore river canals and the scenic countryside, enjoy gourmet foods and wine, and schedule hiking and biking alongside the barge. You can hop off at one lock and bike or walk along the canal, getting back on the barge when you’re ready to. The trip includes small guided visits to historic castles, vineyards, iconic churches, and medieval villages along the way (obviously dependent on your itinerary).

A barge cruise is a far more intimate cruise experience than on larger ships. The barge moves very slowly as you hang out with your family and friends – whether they’re friends you brought along or new ones you’ve met. It’s also an opportunity to try out new activities – we had lunch with a countess, tasted champagne in Champagne, and learned about falconry. You can read about our barge cruise here.

15. Sailing

A soft adventure that’s been growing in popularity, sailing used to be a preserve of the wealthy or daredevil adventurers. Not anymore, everyone can jump on board and set sail. If you opt for a crewed sail, the crew will guide the vessel as you sit back, sipping your favorite beverage and enjoying the coastlines. Experience sailers can’t rent outfitted boats and chart their course. There are also opportunities to learn to sail and/or work as a crew member on a boat.

The Mediterranean coast is perfect for sailing during the summer and Hawaii is perfect near year-round. Local lakes often have sailboat rentals. We went sailing in Maine during the summer on a windjammer cruise and found it both relaxing and exhilarating. 

What’s next?

These activities seem to be on-trend, but what’s next? What type of travel experience is catching your eye?

Save these ideas to your favorite Pinterest boards!

You might also enjoy

• Colombian Spices: Spice Up Your Trip to Colombia
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If you like this article, you'll find more to enjoy at Traveling with MJ - Value luxury destinations, experiences, and products .

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Travel After Retirement: Fill Your Golden Years With Adventure

The days of waiting for your one and only annual vacation are in the rearview.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

You’ve put in your 9-to-5s and clocked in for the last time. Now, time is on your side. For many retirees, travel (that is, seeing, tasting, and experiencing something new) is the ultimate way to spend their golden years — the best reward for a job well done.

But with the chance to while away your retirement on your own terms — Caribbean beach or small European town; culture-packed city or ocean cruise — the options can feel limitless. So, whether you’re finally planning that vacation you’ve dreamt of all these years, or you’re looking to relocate for a fresh start, we’re here to help you find your happily ever after.

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An 8-Day Cycling Adventure From Tokyo to Kyoto

By Tom Vanderbilt

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I pulled into the tiny hamlet of Hirase, in Japan ’s Gifu prefecture, at the peak of the day’s heat. I’d just climbed several thousand feet through Hakusan National Park, on a twisting, waterfall-lined road, before eventually descending into the shimmering fantasy landscape of Shirakawa-go, an almost Tolkien-esque small village—and UNESCO heritage site —comprised of centuries-old thatched, peaked-roof farmhouses in the gassho-zukuri style. Replenishing myself with a black-sesame ice cream cone, I made the last push towards my destination. My cycling computer eventually told me “destination reached,” but all I could see was a succession of closed businesses lining a small street. Seeking shade, I flopped against a security gate.

Gearing up to text the ride leader that I was lost, I suddenly saw, in the distance, two cyclists from my group. One, a Dane living in London and a veteran of the trip, escorted me precisely 100 feet to the entrance of a traditional house, half hidden from the street by trees. This was Tosuke-no-yu Fujiya , a traditional ryokan with hot springs; a lacquered-wood and shoji -screen retreat that resists the march of time (and the all-seeing eye of Google Maps.) We were too early for check-in, so we made our way, clad in cycling kit, towards the nearby Shō River. Scrambling barefoot across rocks, we plunged into the clear, bracing mountain water.

I have often found, on a trip, that it is not the perfectly scripted moment that endures in the memory, but that juncture where something has gone awry. Something that might require a touch of fortitude, of inventiveness—of halting conversation with locals—to resolve. Something that momentarily takes us out of our comfort zone. “Only through shadows can we see the beauty of a lighted room,” writes Junichiro Tanizaki in his classic In Praise of Shadows . Something of that spirit exists in RAID Cycling , the outfitter with which I have booked an eight-day expedition, by bike, from Tokyo to Kyoto . “I like it a little more rough around the edges,” as Brad Sauber, RAID’s founder and a longtime participant in the world of luxury bike trips, describes the ride. “I like to bring people to really remote areas—maybe there aren’t five-star hotels. Or maybe some might be, but I don’t want five nights of five-star hotels.”

Biking across the Wagatani Suspension Bridge in the Ishikawa Prefecture

Two decades ago, Sauber was in Japan, on his honeymoon , when inspiration struck, through the window of the Shinkansen. “I remember seeing these amazing little roads, with hardly any traffic,” he says. “I thought, there’s gotta be a way to ride a bike here.” Working at the time for Rapha Travel, the adventure division of the noted clothing brand, he spent 15 days driving the country’s backroads, stitching together a pioneering long-distance cycling route, stumbling upon little-known hotels like the ryokan in Hirase. Even keen cyclists in Japan thought the idea of a multi-day trip from Tokyo to Kyoto “was crazy,” he says. Undaunted, he pushed forward, launching the trip in 2015. Just finding willing hotels was a challenge. “The concept of showing up with 15 foreigners on bikes, with four or five vehicles, just completely blew their minds,” he says.

Sauber launched RAID after Rapha closed its travel division in 2018. His new Japan trips were just up and running when the pandemic struck, forcing a three-year suspension. I am on only the second outing after the country’s reopening, joined by some 16 other cyclists, as well as RAID’s four-person Japanese crew, and Sauber himself. After a night in Tokyo’s Shibuya neighborhood, we take a train to Sumiecho, a suburban area in Tokyo where, in one of the country’s pristine public restrooms—and before its bemused attendant—we change into our cycling kit.

From here, we head into the mountains of Higashi-Ōme. A few things become apparent immediately. One, Japanese roads are top notch. Cyclists typically warn those behind them of the presence of potholes, or random debris in the road; our group had little to do. The one piece of trash I saw in the road stood out for its shocking indelicacy. Second, Japanese drivers are polite—not as polite as Japanese shopkeepers, but generally solicitous of cyclists (still, I recommend using a taillight like Garmin’s Varia , which warns of cars approaching from behind—useful in the country’s many dim tunnels). Third, on 90-degree-plus days, Japanese vending machines—which one finds in the most unexpected places—are your friend.

Alex Erdekian

CNT Editors

Jesse Ashlock

Charlie Hobbs

The days went by in a flurry of impressions, gleaned over the handlebars. There was the babble of snow monkeys in the trees near Kofu (a town that grows those extravagantly expensive fruits that are given as gifts). There were elegantly spired, tightly-packed Buddhist cemeteries in the midst of almost iridescent green rice paddies. There were mountain peaks densely packed with cypress and marked by absolute stillness, save for the piercing cries of Japanese Golden Eagles. There were restorative bowls of soba noodles at family-run roadside restaurants, elaborate kaiseki meals eaten wearing summer yukata robes, and Japanese snacks at the RAID rest stops. There were “shortcuts” down eerily abandoned country roads. There were memorable stays in new-to-me cities like Takayama (dubbed “mini-Kyoto,” without the crowds), where, in the sleek Hotel Wood , you find yourself immersed in the onsen with the same people you’ve been riding with, except you’re all now naked.

But there’s little room for shame on this trip: On another night, in the town of Kaga, we find ourselves in a small karaoke bar called Swing Club, singing Bon Jovi full-throat. Sauber discovered the place years ago and has been returning ever since. When we walk in, swelling the bar’s population, the septuagenarian proprietress—a former classical dancer in the Bon Odori tradition, wearing a leopard-print blouse—beams at him warmly. He doesn’t recall her name. “I have these experiences all over the world,” he tells me. “It’s not about names. It’s about interactions.”

The 5th-century Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine in Takayama

So beguiling is this whole trip that several guests, joined by their partners, would be sticking around to do RAID’s other Japan itinerary, a less strenuous trip through the Southern Islands. Sauber says that in general, while some cycling experience is suggested, it’s also a chance for participants—typically already thrust out of their comfort zone by being in Japan—to expand their sense of self. Among the clients on that trip, he notes, is a 70-year-old woman, bringing her e-bike. “She’s super adventurous, she’s traveled all over,” he says. “RAID is about pushing people’s limits, stretching that elastic—creating an experience that actually challenges people.”

RAID Cycling leads trips in countries across the globe, including Japan. Rates for the 8-day Tokyo to Kyoto trip start at $6800, which includes lodging, transport and support during the trip, and all meals.

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About This Game

Background:, system requirements.

• Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
• OS: Windows 10 or higher
• Processor: Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD Athlon X4 740 (or equivalent)
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: GeForce GTX 660 (2048 MB) or Radeon R9 285 (2048 MB) - Integrated GPUs may work but are not supported.
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 6 GB available space

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