During the day, SeaWorld Orlando delights guests with underwater adventures and adrenaline filled roller coasters. As the sunset sets across the theme park during the spooky season, the shadows hold torrid tales that snarl guests in their grasp. During my recent visit to the 2025 Howl-O-Scream event, havoc was everywhere and I was lucky to escape unscathed.

Adults Only

While daytime offerings are meant to be family-friendly, SeaWorld Orlando’s nighttime experience is for adults. It is more than the frightening aspects to this event. Themes, visuals and even the overall vibe is meant for an older crowd.

From couples looking to scream the night away to friends wanting a spirited night out, SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream offers a little bit of everything. In its fifth year, the creative team amplified the experience with new shows, haunted houses and scarezones.

Look towards the flames and prepare to enter Havoc’s realm, if you dare.

• When to Go: Howl-O-Scream 2025 runs now through November 1, 2025 on select nights. Doors open at 6:15 and the event begins at 7:00 p.m.
• What to Do: The event includes five haunted houses, six scare zones, five themed bars, shows and more.
• Ticket prices vary

I received tickets to attend Howl-O-Scream from SeaWorld Orlando.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Skip the airport stress — Lyft’s On-Time Pickup Promise guarantees your scheduled ride shows up within 10 minutes of your pickup time. If it doesn’t? You’ll get Lyft Cash. You can schedule up to 90 days in advance and even lock in your rate. Use code SBT25 to save 25% off ONE scheduled ride to the airport.

No Where to Hide in These Haunted Houses

Over the years, I have learned to calm my fears in haunted houses. At SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream, that concept is tested. The scenes are not necessarily grotesque, but they are intense.

From hanging obstacles to flashing lights, every wicked twist and turn is designed to make me feel disoriented. Not knowing where to look makes that jump scare more intense.

At this year’s event, the returning haunted houses are Water’s Edge Wellness Center and Farm 51. Although the “wellness center” might be a misnomer, the scareactors are amazing. They really get into character. That moment of calm makes the scream even more intense.

The new houses are The Collector’s Curse, Rave Yard and The Widow’s Nest. The Rave Yard is a stunning house. From stepping through the graveyard gate till the music fades, this experience proves haunted can be captivating. This concept would be well served outside the seasonal event.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Opt for the Front of Line Fear Extreme. While wait times are manageable, the majority of the evening should be spent having fun versus standing in line. It is worth the extra cost.

Join our Travel Tribe! Sign up for our newsletter now!

Scarezones Are Not for the Timid

Scarezone scene at SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

SeaWorld’s looping path around the water makes its scarezones unavoidable. While there are safe havens along the way, every twist, turn and shadow has a person waiting to pounce. I have learned to never carry my cocktail while walking around the event. One spilled drink is too many.

This year’s scarezones are Ashes Forgotten, Blood Light District, Woodrot Hollow, Trailer Park Tragedy, Cannibal Horror and Echoes in the Glass. The Blood Light District is a returning favorite. These vampires are still thirsty for new partners.

I found the Trailer Park Tragedy area quite entertaining. The scare actors really took their roles seriously and were willing to interact with guests. It was less about causing people to scream versus having a good time at the event.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t want to be scared? SeaWorld sells a special necklace that alerts scare actors to tone down their approach.

Interactive Bars Are the Ultimate Watering Holes

One of the ways that I survive Halloween theme parks events is with a cocktail. At SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream, the interactive bars turn a quick stop into a reason to linger. There might be shots and blood bags around the park, but I cannot resist a bar stop.

At this year’s event, there are three interactive bars. They are Scorchline, The Butcher’s Block Tavern, Carnevil, Space Gate 3 and Tormented.

Tormented is a returning favorite and this year it did not disappoint. The bartenders shake a strong cocktail. I recommend ordering the 5 Years of Fear Cocktail. The lemon ginger vodka with tangy Midori is both refreshing and spicy. Plus, the vibrant green color captivates.

For the cocktail fan, each of the interactive bars have a signature sipper. Although I did not do a bar crawl, it would be a great option for a group. Sharing a few beverages throughout the night would be wonderful.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Additional specialty cocktails are served at some of the food marketplaces. Be sure to download the SeaWorld Orlando app for complete details.

Don’t Be Frightened by Terrifically Terrifying Food

Theme park food has become a huge draw. This year, SeaWorld’s culinary team wove its themes into the creative, complex and delicious offerings.

This year’s menu features favorites like a Skull Pretzel, Swiderfries and Nachos. While the standard fare is good, the global cuisine is where SeaWorld chefs’ shine. The Dangerous Pork Egg Rolls served over Pad Thai noodles is a hearty meal with just the right amount of spice.

Even the traditional burger gets an upgrade. Made with bison, the Ripper’s Revenge tastes like a pub burger with its chevre, arugula and vampire blood jam.

Overall, I appreciate that Howl-O-Scream’s food offerings balance familiar dishes with some bold flavors. It might push some people out of their comfort zone, but it is not as daring as previous year’s creepy, crawling protein options.

SheBuysTravel Tip: For couples and groups, it is smart to buy the Tasting Lanyard. The $75 Premium option includes five entrees and two beverages.

Sit a Spell and Watch a Show

When time is limited, some people skip the shows. I built extra time into my night to ensure that I saw the performances.

This year, the shows are Throttle, Hellzapoppin Presents: The Grave Danger Thrill Show, Monster Stomp and Deadly Rhythm. The fan-favorite Monster Stomp is always my choice for  mid-evening experience break. The visuals bring the heat, but the air-conditioned environment is refreshing.

This year, the new Throttle show puts Havoc, the new face of fear, front and center. From the motorcycles revving their engines to the impressive choreography, this high energy event was like a mini-concert. The gigantic flames igniting the night sky served as my beacon to find all the action.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Get to Howl-O-Scream early to enjoy the new Deadly Rhythm show at Scorchline Bar. Those beats are infectious.

Read More

• Spooky or Sweet? 13 Unforgettable Halloween Getaways
• Family-Friendly Florida Resorts that Are Worth the Splurge
• Orlando Beyond the Roller Coasters – Hike These Scenic Byways!
• Best Orlando Dinner Shows for Fun and Feasting

The post SeaWorld Orlando’s 2025 Howl-O-Scream Goes Extreme with Its Havoc Fueled Experiences appeared first on She Buys Travel.

I have been to the Canadian Rockies twice in the past two years—once in spring and once in winter. I’ll spoil it all upfront—the vibe is magical, and I’d love to cross summer and fall off my bucket list. My current status is “Trying to convince my extended family that our summer 2025 vacation needs to be in Banff.”

Pursuit is a leisure company that offers resorts and activities worldwide. I’ve had an opportunity to explore and experience what they have to offer in the Canadian Rockies, and I’m here to tell you that Pursuit should be an integral part of your trip planning. And yes, you really do need to plan a trip. Both winter and spring were breathtaking, and I think this is a trip you could repeat over and over again and not tire of.

While the parks – Banff National Park and Jasper National Park – are not part of Pursuit’s Banff Jasper Collection, their amenities in and around both parks should be a big part of your trip planning. Pursuit’s presence in the Canadian Rockies includes Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Canmore, Golden, and the Columbia Icefield. Golden is located in British Columbia, although it is less than a two-hour drive, each way, from Banff.

Considering a holiday in Banff? Read more here:

• When is the Best Time to Visit Banff? Any Time of the Year!
• 16 Things to do in Banff National Park: Rejuvenate Your Mind & Body

Getting to Banff and Jasper and Getting Around

Both Banff and Jasper are in the province of Alberta. If you’re flying, getting to Banff from Calgary Airport is easy. If you want to rent a car and drive, the 80-mile drive will take about 90 minutes. If you’re going to take a shuttle, the Brewster Express takes around two hours. The shuttle has comfortable seats and WiFi; sitting back and letting someone else handle the driving is easy.

Brewster Express also runs from Calgary to Jasper and from Banff to Jasper, so you can use the shuttle for whatever destinations you want and align it with however you’re breaking up your trip.

I took the Brewster Express from Calgary to Banff and rented a car in Banff to drive to Jasper as a day trip. It was easy to rent a car in downtown Banff, and I’m glad I was on my own timetable to drive to Jasper since there are a lot of beautiful places to stop. I spent most of my time in Banff and found the town very walkable, although it is very cold and icy in the winter. Had I not wanted to drive to Jasper, I’d have been fine without a car.

My hotel charged a per-night rate for parking, plus I had to pay $11 Canadian per day for a park pass, which I had to display in my car whenever I was in the park. The park pass I got in Banff was also good for all Mountain National Parks: Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton, Elk Island, Mount Revelstoke, and Glacier. The park pass does not include parking at Lake Louise, which was $36 Canadian for the day. There are cheaper ways to explore Lake Louise, including a bus service from Banff and a shuttle service from Lake Louise Village to Lake Louise. I was short on time and wanted to see the lake, so I opted to pay the hefty parking fee, but there are more economical ways to go about it.

Hotels in the Pursuit Collection

Pursuit has 11 properties in the Canadian Rockies: Two in Banff, nine in Jasper, and one in Waterton. Deals are available on their website, and of course, the longer you stay, the bigger the discount. I stayed at Banff’s Mount Royal Hotel (read my review here) and had dinner at Banff’s Elk + Avenue Hotel. I’ve stayed at Mount Royal twice and love its convenient location in downtown Banff – everything is easy to get to on foot, the Brewster Express takes you right to the door, and local tours will pick you up right at the hotel. Summer room rates for a king or double queen room run between $550 and $650 Canadian. Pricing is dynamic, depending on the day of the week and the season. Elk + Avenue’s nightly rates are slightly less expensive.

Jasper has wider hotel choices and a larger fluctuation in hotel rates. I found summer rates to be as low as $369, and visitors staying for longer stays can likely get a less expensive per-night rate whether you’re choosing Banff, Jasper, or both; book early, especially during the popular summer season.

Many of Pursuit’s hotels have restaurants attached to them. I’ve eaten at Brazen, inside Mount Royal, and Farm & Fire inside Elk + Avenue, and I recommend both places. Both menus heavily feature shareable plates, and while there’s no shortage of proteins, both menus are very vegetable-forward. Elk + Avenue has an open kitchen and a tempting array of creatively topped flatbread pizzas. Shoutout to Brazen for the most unique Crème Brulee I’ve ever been served. Designed to look like an ashtray with white chocolate “cigarettes” and a gray sugary crumble that mimics ash, this concoction is so delicious that it is easy to get past the slightly gross element of being served an ashtray.

Things to Do

There are tons of things to do in Banff and Jasper, including hiking and biking in the park, swimming in Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, exploring the shops in Banff and Lake Louise, eating delicious food, and more. And while some of the activities I’m touching on are summer season activities, winter opens up a whole host of other things to do, such as downhill and cross-country skiing and ice skating.

Golden Skybridge

Located just under two hours from Banff, Golden British Columbia is home to a robust outdoor adventure space, the Golden Skybridge. The star attractions are two suspension bridges that cross a canyon – one bridge is slightly higher and longer than the other, and the highest bridge is Canada’s highest suspension bridge at 426 feet.

In addition to the bridges, there’s a mountain coaster, a zipline course, a treetop challenge course, climbing, and axe throwing. Golden Skybridge also has a kid’s playground area and food concessions. The park is linear and designed for all guests to traverse both bridges. I found them daunting, but I got through both bridges twice each. I’ll add that I visited on a clear day when there wasn’t much wind and few people on the bridge, which would have caused it to move more. I had it entirely to myself on my final trek across the lower bridge, and it hardly moved. There are very kind and knowledgeable staff located at the bridges to give anyone who needs a little extra encouragement or help across the bridge.

For anyone who wants to take the adrenaline up a notch, do the Giant Canyon Swing as an add-on. Not for the faint of heart, this swing sends you freefalling from a platform hanging from the cavern before allowing you to swing in a sweeping arc as you take in the epic scenery of the canyon and the waterfalls below. If your eyes aren’t squeezed tightly shut in fear, that is.

If you love adventure or want to challenge yourself, make a day of this place. It’s worth the trek from Banff, and, as with everything else in this region, the drive is gorgeous.

Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola is a beautiful, all-season ride up Sulphur Mountain in an enclosed gondola with viewing windows to take in the sky and scenery as you go far above the treeline. This mile-long ride takes about eight minutes, and yes, your ears will pop, probably more than once. The lower terminal is 5,194 feet above sea level, and the Upper Terminal is 7,486 feet above sea level. The experience of climbing above the trees is surreal and gives sort of a Twilight, Edward and Bella up-in-the-pines vibe.

The top has a viewing deck and an extended deck called Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk, which leads to some incredible views if you feel like a little walk after reaching the top. The entire length of the boardwalk is about a third of a mile, and just when you think you’ve reached the end, the path keeps going.

The outdoor views from the observation decks are the star of the show, although don’t skip the indoor activities. There’s an interpretive center that teaches guests about the region’s natural and cultural history, a theater, and a gift shop. There’s also a gift shop at the base of the Gondola. Hungry? There’s a café at the top that sells coffee and snacks, as well as a more elevated fine dining experience at Sky Bistro.

Exploring the Columbia Icefields

The novelty of exploring an ice field and getting a little dose of winter in late May when the weather in my hometown was creeping up toward 100 degrees is an experience that I wholeheartedly recommend. The Columbia Icefield Experience includes riding an all-terrain ice explorer vehicle onto the Athabasca Glacier. The glacier is over 10,000 years old, which is mindblowing, and almost 1,000 feet thick, which is also mind blowing. Walking on the glacier feels the same as walking on regular snowy terrain. I wore hiking shoes and layers, and I was comfortable.

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is an add-on experience to the ice field tour. The Skywalk is a total of .62 miles, or 1 km, of interpretive experience, including educational exhibits about fossils and geology. Mountain goats frequent the area around the Skywalk – I saw one! – so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. The fun part of the Skywalk is the suspended glass platform that allows you to see Sunwapta Valley below from a unique angle. It’s a little unnerving, although not on the same level of thrill as the Golden Skybridge.

The entire experience took about three hours. The tour begins and ends at the Glacier Discovery Center, where you’ll board a bus to where the ice explorer vehicles are parked. You’ll ride out to the glacier, and after spending about 30 minutes at the glacier – which is more than enough time to check things out and snap your pictures – you’ll reboard the ice explorer and transfer back to the bus, which will take you to the Skywalk. Buses run from the Skywalk back to the Glacier Discovery Center every 20 minutes. Although most of the experience involved bus rides or waiting for a bus, it’s still a don’t skip in my book, and I’d 100 percent do it again.

Banff Open Top Touring

This 90-minute tour is a great way to explore Banff and the surrounding area, plus get a lay of the land. A custom 1930s-style vehicle driven by a guide in period costume is the backdrop for the story of how Banff came to be a popular spot for tourism and recreation. The tours are fun and educational and make an excellent first or second-day activity to help with orientation and adding to your “Hey, I wanna do that!” lists. The vehicle’s glass tops provide gorgeous views and are removed during warmer weather.

Fun story: I went on the tour in late May, and the driver had the glass tops up. It was a cold, sunny day, and the driver shared that he’d been considering taking the tops off. It started snowing halfway through our tour, so I’m happy he didn’t! There were several opportunities to get out and take pictures, and our guide entertained us with fun stories. We also saw a small herd of elk grazing just outside Banff village, so always keep your eyes peeled for the region’s abundant wildlife.

On my list for next time

I wasn’t able to fit these in on either of my recent trips to the Canadian Rockies, but these Pursuit Collection activities are on my list for my next visit:

• Ice Odyssey
• Lake Minnewanka Cruise
• Maligne Lake Cruise
• Maligne Canyon Icewalk

Save Money with a Pursuit Pass

A Pursuit Pass allows visitors to pay a single price for multiple attractions at a savings. If the activities in the section above have you saying, “Yes to all of that!” then a Pursuit Pass is what you want. There are three levels of passes. The most expensive and least restrictive Pursuit Pass Rockies allows a single entry into all seven activities listed above with no time restrictions and 10 percent off retail and dining.

The least expensive Pursuit Rockies Lite allows entry to the Banff Gondola, Columbia Icefield Tour, and Columbia Icefield Skywalk with no time restrictions, plus one additional attraction of the pass holder’s choice with no time restrictions. The Pursuit Rockies Value Pass is a mid-priced ticket that allows entrance into all seven activities but restricts all but the Banff Gondola and Golden Skybridge to entry after 3:30. The Pursuit Rockies Value Pass also gives the bearer the 10 percent retail and dining discount.

The passes are priced at $349 to $209 Canadian per adult, but here’s the catch: The Pursuit Rockies and the Pursuit Rockies Value passes are valid for the entire season, usually from late May through mid-October. The Pursuit Rockies Lite is only valid for seven days. If your trip is shorter and you’re satisfied with the offerings on the Lite pass, save money and get the cheaper pass. Otherwise, the money for the flexibility is well-spent.

And don’t let the ‘after 3:30 PM’ put you off. Summer days in the Canadian Rockies are long, and you’ll enjoy daylight until 9:00-10:00 PM, depending on the month and weather.

Enjoy the Trip, and Be Smart About Packing

It might seem obvious, but check the weather before you travel. No matter what season you travel in, the weather in the Canadian Rockies is probably different from the weather where you are coming from. I took lightweight layers and sturdy, close-toed shoes, which I needed for the Golden Skybridge and the Columbia Icefields. I took a waterreistant windbreaker and a light fleece vest. Not only was I glad I had both but there were a couple of times where I had them both together. I stuffed a knit hat, a buff, and lightweight gloves in my pockets and used all of them, which I didn’t expect to do during a late spring trip.

Banff and Jasper are casual places where you don’t need dressy clothes. Everyone I saw had on hiking gear and athleisure. There are plenty of outfitters in downtown Banff in case you forget something or aren’t prepared for the weather. While it’s nice to know that you’ll have an easy time if you need to snag a wardrobe item, I always want to pack the clothes I know I’ll need to comfortably do the activities I’ve planned.

Read more packing and fashion advice for your next Banff trip:

• The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List – What to Bring, Buy and Rent
• What To Wear Hiking in the Heat to Make Your Next Outdoor Adventure a Success
• Fashion Advice: Winter Travel Outfits that Don’t Compromise on Style!

The post The Banff Jasper Collection – What Pursuit Can Offer in the Canadian Rockies appeared first on She Buys Travel.

Published in 2022, this information remains accurate as of 4/9/24.

Exoticca Tour’s trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos bucks the norm: groups moving en masse from one activity to the next. Exoticca Tours take a different, more flexible approach, which worked so much better for me. I am not a hop-on-hop-off-bus-tour kind of traveler. I want to explore destinations at my own pace, hit the touristy must-sees but spend most of my time on local flavors and experiences.

The fact that Exoticca Tours includes lots of free time in its tour itineraries was a big draw for me. We were not expected to do everything together as a group. Our group of 10 represented ages 12-80 and a variety of interests. We did a lot of sightseeing together but we also had plenty of independent time to do our own tours or do nothing.

The walking tours that were included in our trip were easy-paced and good for all ages.

All other excursions like snorkeling, hiking the volcano and a cacao farm visit, are optional and range from relaxing to rigorous. The Exoticca guides explained each one in detail the morning after we arrived.

Activities Included in My Exoticca Tour to Ecuador

Activities in the Amazon

In the Amazon, at Suchipakari Lodge, we took an easy hour-long guided night hike along a path into the jungle, shining our iPhone flashlights on tarantulas and other bugs. It was creepy and exhilarating.  We stopped to absorb the positive energy from the ceibo tree- special to the indigenous people of the Amazon, radiating positive energy.. The trunk of the ceibo tree is shaped like a C and large enough to hold at least 20 of us.  Our guide said he would often visit the ceibo for meditation and prayer. I felt the energy of the forest and the tree when I went back another night for a shaman blessing.

We did a day hike too, to learn about medicinal plants in the jungle that cure everything from headaches to mosquito bites. Our tour guide added a cacao preparation lesson and local fruit tasting for $15 per person that everyone in the group joined.

Visiting the Galapagos and the Turtles

After the visit to the jungle, we returned to Quito (our second stay at the Mercure Hotel) so that we could fly to San Cristobal, one of the many Galapagos islands.

Upon arrival in the Galapagos, all guests pay a $100 (cash) entry fee at the airport, which includes a visit to Tortuga National Park.

Only native, trained guides are allowed to give tours in the Galapagos. On day 2, a local guide took us on a tour of Tortuga National Park to see the enormous 100+ year old tortoises and the babies and to learn more about what is being done to protect them.

Exploring San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos

I loved the vibe of San Cristobal and even though we spent 3 nights, I would spend even more time there. I felt very safe. Every morning, before our activities started, I walked all over the town and into the neighborhoods by myself. People are friendly. When there is a soccer game, all eyes are on TV. The local lunch – soup, freshly squeezed juice, fish and rice, is $4 and delicious.

On day 1, the local Exoticca guide took us on a quick walking tour of the main street, pointing out ATMs, good food, and excursion companies. She warned us about the huge sea lion population on San Cristobal island. They are not always friendly and they need plenty of space when walking past them. Sea lions are everywhere – store fronts, on the beach, in the water (while you are snorkeling) and they are not shy.

Excursions Included in Our Exoticca Tour of Ecuador

Below is a list of the activities included in the base tour price.  The quantity and the quality exceeded my expectations. There were more than I expected and the guides were very informative.

1. On our second trip to Quito, our guide took us on a street food tasting tour. We took an Uber to a park where there were several food trucks set up. Our menu included fried pork, tripe, fish, plantains and a taste of local moonshine. Our guide, Diego, was not required to go with us but we were happy to have him show us more of Ecuadorian culture.
2. During our stay at Suchipakari, our guides led a night hike in the jungle, spotlighting tarantulas, bugs and animals.
3. In Guayaquil, a bustling Ecuadoran city, we stayed at Unipark across the street from Seminario Park, aka Parque de las Iguanas, named for its large population of large iguanas. A local Guayaquil guide took us on a 90-minute walking tour through the park and downtown Guayaquil.
4. Our daily guide, Diego, showed us around the streets of Old Town, an area of the city that looks like Europe with small winding streets and baroque architecture. We tasted local candies, visited churches and watched street performers.

Exoticca Tour Guides

A good tour guide is ALWAYS the key to a great tour experience. Our first guide, Diego, was with us throughout the Ecuador and Amazon portions of the trip. He is exceptional. Not only does he speak very good English, his comprehension is fantastic. There were different levels of mobility among the group and he accommodated all.

He is fun, knowledgeable, caring, attentive and sweet. At the end of our trip, when we left Guayaquil for the US, he stayed with us until every last one of us was on a plane. That kind of attention made the trip so enjoyable and stress-free.

He set the bar pretty high for the other guides and a couple of them didn’t measure up. The guide in the Galapagos took us on a tour that was too brief and she was difficult to reach via phone or WhatsApp. This was an issue because we did have an incident with a group member who needed medical attention.

Our guide in Tortuga National Park was kind but uninterested and slept most of the time on the bus. The guided tour in Guayaquil was a waste of time. That guide was on a mission to finish by a certain time and our group was tired, not able to keep up with his pace.

We spoke with another Exoticca group that had completed their trip and they said their experience with the guides was similar – started out strong and dwindled once the main guide left.

Additional Activities NOT Included in Exoticca Tour Price

Tina and I chose to spend our free time on upgraded experiences, such as a $60 visit to the spa at the Mercure Hotel in Quito and a full day with a local guide from ToursbyLocals.

Here’s what we did and how much it cost:

ToursbyLocals Guayaquil Day Trip – $175 per person (including tip)

I found this tour via Google search, emailed the guide several times, and booked it before the trip. There were similar tours offered by Exoticca but this one had the advantage of a personal driver and could be tailored to our requests. I had not booked with Tours by Locals prior so this required communication and a little leap of faith. Mario’s great personality and familiarity with American culture was a bonus.

A third member of the tour joined Tina and me on this day trip to explore areas outside the city of Guayaquil. As soon as we met our guide, Mario, we knew we made the right choice. He is a fantastic guide and a wonderful human.

Mario picked us up from the hotel and modified his tour to include the things we wanted to see and do. For example, we stopped at a roadside market to taste coconut water, cake and fruits. We hiked Manglares Churute Ecological Reserve with a local guide who pointed out families of howler monkeys. We saw loads of them. At the end of the park hike, Gonzo, the river canoe captain, motored us through the mangroves where we spotted spoonbill birds, blue footed boobies, ospreys and other beautiful wildlife.

Lunch was at Hacienda Cacao & Mango, a farm owned by Albert and Ninfa. They served ceviche (a special no-onion version for me) and a main entree with locally sourced food. Albert and Ninfa showed us how to make chocolate and we each made our own specially flavored bars. We visited Ecua-Andino, where Panama hats are made and later met with Andrea Tello, a well-known local jewelry maker who set up in Hotel Parque in Guayami.

And while all this was happening, Mario was filling us in on history, local flavors and idiosyncrasies. It was like hanging out with a friend we had known for years. You can book Mario directly here.

Exoticca Tours Excursion: Otavalo, +$110

We booked this day trip through Exoticca. The full day trip to Otavalo, Ecuador, to visit a Ketchwa couple who make blankets, ponchos and scarves from alpaca wool. We also shopped in a local indigenous flea market. The wool making demo by the Ketchwa couple was interesting and I did buy two blankets there but it was a very long drive to shop for that. Most of the market vendors sold the same stuff and much of that could be purchased in Guayaquil. I would pass on this.

Snorkeling Excursion in the Galapagos – $155

In Summary: YES!  Another tour we booked through Exoticca, I highly recommend this one. We spent a full day snorkeling around Kicker Rock. We were a little irritated when we were asked to pay an additional $5 for full wetsuits instead of shorties. It was only $5 but why couldn’t that info have been provided when we signed up?

Our snorkeling guide, Luis, was amazing. His English is fluent and he knew how to cater to every guest’s comfort level. He was able to accommodate the experienced scuba divers in our group and he used a lifesaver ring to “tow” those who were not comfortable snorkeling on their own.

Tubing at Suchipakari Lodge, Amazon jungle – $15

During the Amazon jungle portion of the trip, many of us opted to pay $15 for a tubing adventure down the river that runs alongside the Suchipakari Lodge. As we floated towards the small rapids, we were entertained by local kids jumping off a high platform into the river. There were lots of jokes about piranhas (at least I think they were jokes) and the rapids were not huge. We all liked it so much that we did 3 floats down the river.

Cacao Demonstration & Local Fruit Tasting – $15

Our guides arranged an indigenous fruits tasting and cacao demonstration at Suchipakari Lodge, which was well worth the extra $15. Each person learned to roast and shell the cacao beans and there were plenty of fruits like the naranjilla (looks like an orange but sweeter), the tree tomato (my favorite – not tomato-like at all), and the chirimoya – hard PASS! HAHA.

The post Activities on an Exoticca Tour to Ecuador and the Galapagos appeared first on She Buys Travel.

Can a bargain-priced international trip provide a full-sized experience? SheBuysTravel Founder Kim Orlando had to find out. So she booked an 11-day tour of Ecuador and the Galapagos for just $1,600 – a deal that even included air travel from New York City. So, the burning question: Did Exoticca Tours deliver more or less than she bargained for?

What kind of international trip (that includes airfare) can you really get for $1,600? I had to know.  Exoticca is an online travel agency and tour company based in Spain.  And IMHO, the worst name ever.  I feel like I have to explain it for them when I tell someone about my tour.

A little context: I am not a hop-on-hop-off-bus-tour kind of traveler. I want to explore destinations at my own pace, hit the touristy must-sees but spend most of my time on local flavors and experiences. My husband, on the other hand, needs organization and isn’t keen on surprises so I thought a flexible tour would suit us both.

Why Choose Exotica Travel Tours?

I chose Exoticca Tours to visit Ecuador because:

1) The price included airfare.

2) I knew I would need help navigating the Galapagos.

3) I thought my husband would like Exoticca’s organized itinerary.

4) TrustPilot had positive customer reviews.

A proper tour seemed to make the most sense to get my husband to go with me. But my logic did not pan out. He bailed a few months before the trip, claiming a need to golf.  So his adventurous, up-for-anything cousin, Tina, and her friend went with me instead.

What Does a $1,600 All Inclusive Trip Include?

I have to admit I was more than a little nervous about the types of travel experiences and accommodations that would be included for only $1,600 (from New York). To boot, Tina is a luxe traveler, so the pressure was on.

I actually used the phone number on the Exoticca site and spoke with a travel agent more than once. I was on hold longer than I would prefer, but when I finally got someone on the phone, I was able to get answers to all of my questions.

I learned that Exoticca offers a variety of moderately priced travel packages from 14 day excursions to South Africa, Morocco and Asia to shorter 8 day trips to Portugal, Peru and other European countries.  The company’s 60-day non-refundable cancellation policy seems fair to me and full payment is not due upfront. However, the refund for partial payments made prior to the 60 days is subjective.  Read that carefully.

General Exoticca Tour to Ecuador Details

We covered a lot of ground in 11 days: Quito, Tena (Amazon), San Cristobal (Galapagos), Guayaquil. All of the hotels included on the Exoticca Tour to Ecuador were at least 3-star (comparable to Holiday Inn Express, with breakfast included daily), and each had the option of upgrading to a 4-star property. I was happy with the accommodations – we didn’t spend much time in our rooms anyway.

Our flight was easy – coach class on American Airlines into Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. Upon arrival, we were met immediately by an Exoticca representative.

Travel on the ground was via comfortable touring buses. There is no bathroom on the bus, but we made plenty of stops. The rest stops became part of the adventure. Our guide introduced us to local snacks (including grubs – more on that later!) and drinks. The bathrooms were always clean. Some required a tip or a fee of 25-50 cents.

Transportation on Our Exoticca Ecuador Tour

Another reason I am hesitant about organized tours is because the ground transportation is via coach bus. I always thought of this as being herded like cattle and assumed I would not like this part of this tour. It turns out that I was happy to check out the interesting landscapes along the way and not have to worry about driving.

One of the rest stops included the option of eating grubs – grilled or raw – to improve our respiratory health. I somehow choked down a grilled grub and have a video to prove it!

Extra Costs on the Exoticca Ecuador/Galapagos Tour

There are opportunities to upgrade by adding a variety of excursions to the trip, including escorted tours (read about the tours that are included and optional in this post), and staying in a 4 star hotel. Breakfast was included everyday but not all meals were included.

And then there are other required charges not included in the Exoticca Tour price that I would like to have known upfront.

Mandatory Additional Fees

Those fees are:

• Galapagos Entry/Parks Fee of $100. Everyone who visits the Galapagos is required to pay the national park entry fee. The park entry fee has to be paid in cash.
• Tips for our guides. While tips technically are voluntary, I included them under “mandatory extra costs” because this is how tour guides make their living and a good tour guide is the key to a good tour. We spent $150 each on tips.

My Final Cost: $2569

• Exoticca trip…$1599
• 3 Exoticca excursions….$295
• Personal day trip….$175
• Tips…..$150
• Additional food/drinks…..$250
• Galapagos parks fee….$100
• Covid testing……$150 (no longer required)

Exoticca Tour to Ecuador: What I Would Improve

Two of the Exoticca city tour guides were sub-par. The one in Guayaquil didn’t have the patience for our older travelers. The guide in the Galapagos was difficult to reach when we needed her help. Aside from that, the trip went smoothly and we saw a lot during the time we were there.

The one thing that could use improvement is more advance communication. For example, there is plenty of free time built into the tour and Exoticca offers several optional tours as add-ons.

I would like for extra excursions and tours to be presented in advance of the trip – even if only the day before – so I have time to think about them. At the time of my booking, there was only one excursion available. Others had been added, but I never received an alert.

When we first arrived, the Exoticca reps hosted a meeting to explain the schedule and the COVID requirements. They also went over the many excursion options. But we had to book on the spot. I was happy to have more options, but it would have made planning easier if that information had been made available prior to arrival. I like to know what things will cost upfront, so the surprise extras felt annoying.

Additionally, we found out after we arrived in Ecuador that we would need to pay the Galapagos fees in cash (no credit cards accepted). We all scrambled to find an ATM or bank the day before we left for the island.

Summary

If you are considering bringing kids, you know them best. If you think they will be OK on a bus for 4-5 hours at a stretch, then bring them. Wifi is available, but it is spotty. We had one 12-year-old on the trip and he seemed happy to hang with his mom on the bus. He opted out of some of the activities but enjoyed others. Everyone in the group enjoyed having him. My adult kids all want to do this trip, despite the long bus rides.

Would I do another tip with Exoticca? You bet. Ecuador with Exoticca was a great trip with great people. It was well worth the $1,600 I paid to have all of my flights, taxes, covid tests, local questions, breakfast and lodging taken care of. Tina agreed.

Even though I think there is room for improvement, I liked the value so much that I have applied to sell Exoticca trips on SheBuysTravel so stay tuned!

The post Exoticca Tours Travel Review appeared first on She Buys Travel.

The Kingdom of Bhutan is nestled high in the Himalayas between China and India. Its storied history, unique culture and pristine environment are inextricably linked, and make it one of the few destinations left on Earth where people and nature exist in harmony. Come and join us on a journey to happiness with unprecedented access to the Royal Kingdom of Bhutan!

Travel Beyond the Ordinary
Dates: TBD

Spirituality and the strong-rooted Bhutanese culture can be found in almost everything the Bhutanese people do on a daily basis, including how they eat, how they work, and how they relate with the natural environment. They have immense love and respect for their King, their country, their people, and other beings. Due to the strong belief in Rebirth and Karma, Bhutanese people are usually contended, peace-loving, non-violent, and amiable.

2022 tour participant Christine T. felt that on the tour, ” The volume of direct access to Bhutanese people was exceptional every day.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SheBuysTravel (@shebuystravel)

Itinerary Overview

Day 01: Paro & Thimphu
Day 02: Thimphu
Day 03: Thimphu & Punakha
Day 04: Punakha
Day 05: Punakha & Thimphu
Day 06: Thimphu, Paro & Haa
Day 07: Haa & Paro
Day 08: Paro
Day 09: Departure from Paro
Optional Extension: Laya (6 days)
Optional Extension: Merak (5 days)

Tour Details

DAY 01: Paro & Thimphu

• Arrive Paro International Airport
• Receive welcome blessings and a spiritual cleansing from high lama at Dungtse Monastery (contributes to preserving ancient art and relics. A lama is a higher rank and more spiritually accomplished individual compared to monks)
• Drive to Thimphu (1 hour)
• Observe or join nuns in prayer at nunnery
• Dinner with Dasho Tshering Dorji to learn about Bhutan’s history, culture, and happiness policy (Dash Tshering is His Majesty’s special projects strategic advisor).
• Overnight: The Willows Hotel, Thimphu

Today we’ll arrive at Paro International Airport. Our first stop will be at Dungtse Monastery to receive welcome blessings and a spiritual cleansing from the high lama, before making our way to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan (about a 1 hour drive.) Once in town, we’ll take time to immerse in Bhutanese culture by observing (or joining) nuns in prayer at a local nunnery. Afterward, we’ll conclude the day with dinner and a conversation with Dasho Tshering Dorji, a notable nation builder of Bhutan and expert on the country’s policy of Gross National Happiness.

2022 tour participant Melodye G. said that dinner with Dasho Tshering Dorji was, “Wonderful! Great experience to get to talk to him.”

Tshering Dorji was elected as a Member of Parliament in the National Council for the last two terms and served as the Deputy Chairperson of the National Council in his last term. Prior to his election in the Parliament, he was a Lecturer at Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan.

“Dasho” is a title similar to the title “Sir” in British Monarchy.

DAY 02: Thimphu

• Breakfast at hotel
• Begana Lemon Grass processing unit
• Hike the Ancient Takin Trail (the only hiking trail in Thimphu city)
• Meet Bhutan’s national animal, the takin
• Traditional cooking lesson and lunch with Aum Kesang
• Visit one of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statues
• Kira shopping
• Traditional dyeing and weaving lesson at Secret Garden
• Dinner at Secret Garden
• Overnight: The Willows Hotel, Thimphu

Bhutan’s Lemon Grass is known for its high citral content. It’s used as an odor neutralizer and for medicinal purposes. We will explore how this Lemon Grass is processed. Afterward, we will hike the Ancient Takin Trail. The takin is Bhutan’s national animal, which eats grass, buds and leaves. They are a large species of ungulate (large mammals with hooves) and are similar to goats and sheep.

Next, we’ll head to Aum Kesang’s family home in the mountains to learn how to cook some of Bhutan’s traditional foods and learn why their ingredients are so good for our health.

2022 tour participant Pam K. said about Aum Kesang, “She was fascinating and really opened my eyes to the country’s food desert challenges and how she helped address them. She’s also very creative.”

With a unique food culture unlike anywhere else, Bhutanese cuisine offers a variety of choices and a very unique taste. Restaurants and farm homes serve locally sourced organic farm produce, making every meal a fresh and healthy one (Bhutan has committed to being the first nation in the world to go 100% organic).

“Aum” is a phrase that indicates respect towards a woman of seniority in Bhutanese culture, similar to “Madam” in English.

After lunch, we will visit one of the world’s largest sitting Buddha statues, the Great Buddha Dordenma, and spend some time shopping for kiras, the traditional dress of women in Bhutan. Next, we will learn some of the traditional fabric dyeing and weaving techniques at Secret Garden, where we will also have dinner.

Day 03: Thimphu & Punakha

• Breakfast at hotel
• Drive to Punakha (2 hours)
• Plant a tree sapling in Lamperi Park (Dochula Pass) with Green Bhutan.
• Meet the children at Gakhid Village School
• Stop at Dochula Pass (3100m altitude)
• Stop at Chimi Lhakhang (temple of fertility)
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Time on own before dinner
• Dinner at hotel
• Overnight: Spirit Village Lodge, Punakha

Today we’ll head to Punakha, which was the capital of Bhutan until 1955. On the way we will stop at Dochula Pass, where we will enjoy striking, panoramic views of the Himalayan vista. We will stop to plant a tree sapling in Lamperi Park, the first botanical park in Bhutan and also to meet the children at Gakhid Village School. Our next stop will be at Chimi Lhakhang, a Buddhist monastery and fertility temple. We will then enjoy lunch at a local favorite restaurant and have time on our own to explore before dinner.

Dinner and overnight will be at the Spirit Valley Lodge in Punakha.

Day 04: Punakha

• Light hike to Khamsum Yuelley Monastery (1 hour)
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Explore Punakha Dzong with acclaimed Bhutanese architect
• Time on own before dinner
• Dinner at hotel
• Overnight: Spirit Village Lodge, Punakha

Today we will visit the Khamsum Yuelley Chorten, built in dedication to the 5^th King (Bhutan’s current King), to protect the country from evil forces and for the welfare of sentient beings. We will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then explore the Punakha Dzong (a type of fortified monastery) with an acclaimed Bhutanese architect.

We will again have time on our own to explore before dinner. Dinner and overnight will be at the Spirit Valley Lodge in Punakha.

DAY 05: Punahka & Thimphu

• Breakfast at hotel
• Drive to Thimphu (2 hours)
• Lunch at Ambient Cafe, known for roasting their own coffee
• Visit Thuktro and Chuningding, a local health food store
• Friendly co-ed softball game with youth at national stadium
• Overnight: The Willows Hotel, Thimphu

In the morning, we will drive back to Thimphu and enjoy lunch at Ambient Cafe. Afterward, we will visit Thuktro and Chuningding, a local health food store.

Baseball and softball are new to Bhutan and a huge hit! In the afternoon, we’ll participate in a casual, friendly game of co-ed softball with some of Bhutan’s young players.

2022 tour participant Tina D. loved meeting the young players and said, “They were absolutely wonderful and I’m still in touch with a few on social media.” Pam K. also added, “The young ladies were amazing and inspirational.”

Tonight we will stay at The Willows Hotel in Thimphu.

Day 06: Thimphu, Paro & Haa

• Drive to Paro (1 hour)
• Drive to Haa (2 hours)
• Riverside Picnic
• Overnight at Comfort Camp
  • Traditional Bhutanese games
  • Sacred dances and folkloric songs by performers from the largest festivals
  • Bonfire and Bhutanese whiskey tasting

Today we will drive to Paro and afterward, we leave for Haa Valley. On the way, we cross over Chelela Pass which is the highest motorway in Bhutan. Lunch will be a riverside picnic. We will overnight at a Comfort Camp in Haa, where we will experience the traditional Bhutanese games of archery and darts. We will also enjoy sacred dances and folkloric songs, by performers from the largest festivals, as well as a bonfire and Bhutanese whiskey tasting.

2022 tour participant Christine T. thought the sacred song and dance ceremony was, “extraordinary. Much admired and appreciated.” Melodye G. also loved the dancers. Tina D. felt that, “The team went over and above with dinner and accomodations. It was wonderful.”

Bhutan is the only carbon negative country in the world, and the Bhutanese are dedicated to keeping it that way. The Comfort Camp is luxurious, fully solar-powered and keeps an environmentally-friendly waste policies to reduce or completely eliminate waste from the site. The Comfort Camp was made with design-forward textiles made by hand in Bhutan.

DAY 07: Haa & Paro

• Breakfast at camp
• Hike local farmer’s trail to remote countryside village
• Optional: Cycle the breathtaking Haa Valley
• Taste the local delicacy, Hoentey (buckwheat dumplings)
• Drive to Paro (2 hours)
• Check in to hotel
• Traditional Hot Stone Bath
• Overnight: Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

After breakfast at the Comfort Camp, we will enjoy hiking and cycling experiences in the Haa Valley, and also taste hoentay, a type of dumpling popular here in Bhutan. We will then return to Paro and check in to the Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, where we will receive a traditional medicine consultation and herbal treatment. Then we will have a traditional hot stone bath and overnight at the sanctuary.

2022 tour participant Christine T. felt that the added day is important, “Excellent place and intended for multiple days with depth participation. I think context can be given to make a brief stop worthwhile, but that perspective is important.”

Day 08: Paro

• Early hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (moderate, 3 hours), Bhutan’s most iconic building.
• Enter the sacred cave underneath the monastery
• Mountainside Comfort Picnic
• Shopping in Paro town
• Overnight: Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

Today we will hike to the sacred Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang) monastery in search of the cave where Guru Rinpoche (the founder of the monastery) meditated.

2022 tour participant Christine T. didn’t experience the hike but said, “I was there at the base but never hiked. The feeling of delight among those entering the forest, and returning was palpable. I can confirm this is an important and exceptional opportunity.”

After a picnic lunch we will have some time to relax and shop in Paro. Tonight’s stay will also be at the Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary.

2022 tour participant Pam K. felt that, “The picnic was lovely and a good chance to interact with the locals who prepared it for us.” and Melodye G. said, “Loved the luxury stay.”

Day 09: Paro

Depart via Paro International Airport. Departures to Laya and Merak.

Tour Pricing…………..$8,995 (does not include airfare or airport xfrs).  Single supplement…Coming Soon 

Contact: Kim Orlando at kim@shebuystravel.com or (203) 912-9099 with any questions and to register.  Space is limited to 10 guests.

SheBuysTravel will provide visa protocols.

There are no direct flights from the US or Europe to Bhutan.  We recommend flying to Delhi or Bangkok and connecting from there.  It is best to arrive at the gate for the flight to Bhutan at least 3 hours before departure. Flights to Bhutan are available 1-2 times per day. They usually depart in the morning.  Our local partner is happy to help arrange all or part of the flight itinerary for you at no additional cost than the rate published on the airline’s website. If arranged through them, they will also provide dedicated support if the flight experiences any delays or cancellations.  We can also arrange a hotel night stay should you prefer to arrive into Delhi or Bangkok a day early.

Cost Includes:

• All activities described in the above itinerary
• Private local guide, professional driver, and touring van
• Airport transfers in Bhutan
• Accommodations
• Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
• Sustainable development fee (helps to support social and environmental wellness in Bhutan). Mandatory $200/day for all visitors.
• Flight booking assistance
• Bhutan’s constitution requires that over 60% of its land always remain forested. You will be gifted a tree sapling to plant in the place that is most special to you during your time in the Kingdom.

Cost does not include:

• Airfare
• Airport transfers in connecting country cities (i.e., Bangkok, Delhi, etc.)
• Travel Insurance
• Beverages
• Laundry
• Items of personal nature

**CLICK HERE FOR SHEBUYSTRAVEL BHUTAN TOUR CANCELLATION POLICY

What to pack for Bhutan

Documents

• Passport
• Visa Clearance Letter
• Airline Ticket(s)

Essentials

One of Each:

• Walking Shoes (review our list of best travel shoes here)
• Rain Jacket
• Sun Hat/Cap
• Sunglasses
• Camera & Camera Accessories
• Fleece Jacket

Enough to Last the Trip:

• Long Sleeved Shirts
• Pants
• T-Shirts
• Socks
• Undergarments

Miscellaneous:

• Toiletries
• Sunscreen
• Insect Repellent
• Feminine Products
• Electronics

Trekking

One of Each:

• Trekking/Hiking Shoes
• Trainers/Sneakers
• Beanie
• Walking Stick
• Backpack
• Duffel Bag
• Sleeping Bag

Enough to Last the Trip:

• Base Layer
• Insulation Layer
• Wind Jacket
• Trekking/Hiking Pants
• Underwear
• Trekking/Hiking Socks
• Rain Clothing
• Trekking/Hiking Gloves

We love shopping for these items from REI.com. They have some great deals on quality products for adventure wear.

Miscellaneous:

• Water Bottle
• Towel
• Ziplock Pouches
• Camera & Camera Accessories
• Toiletries
• Headlamp
• Hand Sanitizers

… and your sense of Adventure!

Suggested reading about Bhutan:

• The History of Bhutan by Karma Phuntsho
• Award-winning film, Lunana A Yak in the Classroom

The post Bhutan Tour – Travel Beyond the Ordinary appeared first on She Buys Travel.