When friends and family gather for Thanksgiving or Christmas, the conversation always drifts toward travel. The places we’ve loved, the trips we’re dreaming of, and the adventures we hope to squeeze into the year ahead.
If you’re looking to spark some excitement (and maybe inspire a few resolutions), here are seven incredible adventures that make perfect holiday-table talking points.
Whether you’re into rafting big water, sailing, hiking, culture, or simply great food and great company, these journeys will light up the imagination.
1. California Dreamin’ Road Trip – USA
Runs in: May
This relaxed and thoroughly enjoyable road trip captures the essence of small-town USA charm and big outdoor adventure. You’ll explore quirky California towns, wander through Yosemite National Park, and take on two iconic river sections, the Tuolumne multi-day and the high-adrenaline Cherry Creek.
A perfect talking point when the table conversation turns to national parks and classic American road trips.
2. Karnali River Expedition – Nepal
Runs in: March/April and October
Remote, wild, and utterly unforgettable, the Karnali River flows from the Himalayan highlands through untouched jungle corridors. Warm water, long wave trains, vast beaches, and breathtaking scenery make this a bucket-list expedition for true adventurers. Also under threat from a dam.
Perfect storytelling material for anyone dreaming of something big, raw, and beautiful.
3. New Zealand Multi Active Adventure
Runs in: February / March
This is New Zealand seen through the eyes of someone who loves it deeply. Fly to the Bay of Islands, experience Māori culture, go swimming with dolphins, visit a winery, stay on a high-country sheep farm, ride the Shotover Jet, take a helicopter into the stunning Landsborough Valley for two days of rafting, and wander the beaches of Abel Tasman.
Ideal for holiday-table dreamers looking for beauty, adventure, and warm Kiwi hospitality.
4. Morocco – Desert & River Journey
Runs in: April
From the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the peaceful Ahansal River and the vast Sahara Desert, Morocco offers colourful markets, ancient kasbahs, desert sunsets, and a cultural richness that inspires curiosity and wonder.
Perfect for anyone around the table saying, “I want something totally different.”
5. Cotahuasi Canyon – Peru
Runs in: May / June
One of the deepest canyons in the world, the Cotahuasi River serves up continuous whitewater, dramatic canyon landscapes, Andean culture, and brilliant side hikes. There’s also the option to extend your adventure to the iconic Machu Picchu.
Great when someone starts telling their “wildest adventure ever” story — this one tops them all.
6. Croatia – Small-Group Sailing Adventure
Runs in: June / July
Sailing the Adriatic is pure magic: turquoise coves, historic stone towns, family-run restaurants, and warm summer nights on deck. Explore Dubrovnik, hop between islands, and extend into Montenegro if you’re tempted.
Perfect for sun-seekers dreaming of Mediterranean bliss.
7. French Polynesia – Turquoise Friday, Every Friday
Runs in: September / October
Who needs Black Friday when you can have Turquoise Friday? Glide through crystal lagoons, snorkel coral gardens, wander pristine motus, and unwind aboard a comfortable small-group yacht. Paradise, plain and simple.
A sure hit when the holiday table conversation turns to tropical escapes.
Ready to spark adventure around your own holiday table?
These seven journeys aren’t just trips — they’re stories waiting to be told. And there’s nothing like a bit of travel dreaming to bring people together over the holidays.
