Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal to support impacted communities in Northern Vietnam through its not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation. It follows widespread damage brought by Typhoon Yagi, which made landfall on September 7, 2024. All funds raised through the appeal will go directly to grassroots organisation Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, to provide immediate relief. Thousands are without shelter, food and electricity due to flooding and landslides. The Intrepid Foundation has established the appeal in partnership with its long-term Vietnam-based NGO partner, who are on the ground supporting local communities in Northern Vietnam. They are working to provide essentials like safe shelter and food supplies. When the waters recede, Blue Dragon will help with long-term recovery support such as rebuilding homes that have been destroyed. “Typhoon Yagi has been the largest storm to impact Vietnam in over 30 years. By supporting this appeal, the international travel community can directly contribute to the humanitarian relief efforts,” said Biheng Zhang, GM of The Intrepid Foundation. Donations will help fund immediate needs supplies to children and families in 13 northern provinces. Intrepid opened its first local country office in Vietnam and is the company’s most popular destination, employing 100 team members. The Intrepid Foundation has been partnering with local community organisations in Vietnam for more than a decade. Intrepid says travellers and staff in Vietnam are safe, and trips in Vietnam continue to operate. Groups currently in Northern Vietnam are being rerouted away from affected areas and provided with an alternative itinerary and inclusions. To donate to recovery efforts: Vietnam Typhoon Yagi Appeal. 

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  Multigenerational Travel Uncovered: Spain   Spain's diverse attractions, efficient transportation system, and wide range of dining options make it an ideal destination for multigenerational family travel. For large family groups, options like high-speed trains and private mini-coaches offer the best combination of comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free vacation for all ages.   Attractions for All Ages   Spain’s attractions range from historical sites like the Alhambra in Granada and the Royal Palace in Madrid to family-friendly activities such as exploring the Oceanogràfic in Valencia or enjoying a flamenco show in Seville.

• For Younger Children: Interactive museums like the CosmoCaixa in Barcelona, zoo visits, and beach days.
• For Teens: Adventure parks, shopping in trendy districts, and engaging in water sports along the coast.
• For Adults and Seniors: Wine tours in La Rioja, exploring historical sites, and enjoying leisurely strolls through picturesque old towns.

    Modes of Transportation   Spain’s infrastructure makes it easy to travel between cities and within urban areas:

• Intercity Travel: The AVE high-speed train network connects major cities like Madrid, Seville, Valencia, and Barcelona, offering a quick and comfortable mode of transport. Budget airlines provide an alternative for longer distances.
• In-City Transportation: Metro systems in cities like Madrid and Barcelona are efficient and user-friendly. Buses and taxis are also widely available. For a unique experience, horse-drawn carriages and river cruises offer scenic travel within cities like Seville.

    Food and Drink   Spain's culinary scene is both rich and varied:

• Low Budget: Enjoy tapas and pinchos at local bars, affordable menu del día (set menus) at lunchtime, and street food such as churros.
• High Budget: Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, enjoy gourmet meals with wine pairings, and explore upscale tapas bars.

    Sample Logistics for 6 Adults and 4 Children   When traveling with a large family group, convenience and comfort are key. Here are the best options for transportation and sightseeing the travel agent can arrange through a local Destination Management Company (Tour Operator):   Intercity Travel   High-Speed Trains (AVE): Ideal for connecting major cities quickly and comfortably. Families can travel together in reserved seating areas, and children often receive discounted fares. The trains are punctual, spacious, and provide amenities like Wi-Fi and dining cars. Private Mini-Coach with Driver and Guide: This is a cost-effective option for large families. It provides flexibility, comfort, and personalized service, ensuring that all family members can travel together and safely. A private coach can also handle luggage and accommodate stops along the way for transfers, sightseeing, and/or intercity travel. Your tour operator can suggest the most budget-effective way, for the traveler’s needs (i.e. mini-coach and guide throughout and/or local hires).. Imagine the adults being dropped off at one location, and the younger set goes with he mini-coach and guide to another, meeting up for lunch or dinner.     Within Cities   Private Minivan with Driver: For in-city travel, hiring a private minivan can be convenient, especially for day trips or exploring areas not easily accessible by public transport. Public Transportation: Cities like Madrid and Barcelona have extensive metro and bus networks that are economical and efficient. Buying a family travel card can offer savings. Walking Tours: Many Spanish cities are walkable and offer guided walking tours, which are great for sightseeing and learning about the local culture and history. Sightseeing and Activities  

• Guided Tours: Hiring a private guide can enrich the experience, offering detailed insights and ensuring that the itinerary is tailored to the family’s interests and pace.
• Hop-On, Hop-Off Buses: These buses are perfect for covering large areas in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, allowing family members to explore at their own pace.
• Cultural Experiences: Attend flamenco shows, cooking classes, or traditional festivals to immerse in local culture.

    A Sample Itinerary for All Budgets   Following is a 9-day itinerary.  For families who prefer a more leisurely pace, simply extend their stay in any city for a longer itinerary to offer a perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, ensuring that every member, from grandparents to grandchildren, can enjoy the journey without feeling rushed.   Day 1: Arrival in Madrid   Moderate Budget:

• Accommodation: Family-friendly hotels like Hotel Europa.
• Activities: Explore Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor. Visit Retiro Park for a relaxing afternoon.
• Meals: Traditional tapas at Mercado de San Miguel.

High Budget:

• Accommodation: Luxury stays at The Westin Palace.
• Activities: Private guided tour of the Royal Palace and Prado Museum.
• Meals: Fine dining at Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world.

    Day 2: Madrid to Toledo   Moderate Budget:

• Travel Mode: Train from Madrid to Toledo (30 minutes).
• Activities: Walking tour of Toledo’s medieval streets, visit the Cathedral and Alcázar.
• Meals: Local cuisine at La Abadía.

High Budget:

• Travel Mode: Private car service.
• Activities: Private guided tour, including a visit to the El Greco Museum.
• Meals: Gourmet dining at Restaurante Adolfo.

    Day 3: Madrid to Seville   Moderate Budget:

• Travel Mode: High-speed train (AVE) to Seville (2.5 hours).
• Accommodation: Mid-range hotels like Hotel Amadeus.
• Activities: Explore Seville Cathedral and Giralda Tower.
• Meals: Tapas tour in the Santa Cruz neighborhood.

High Budget:

• Travel Mode: First-class train tickets.
• Accommodation: Luxury stay at Hotel Alfonso XIII.
• Activities: Private flamenco show and river cruise on the Guadalquivir.
• Meals: Fine dining at El Rinconcillo.

    Day 4: Seville - Cultural Immersion   Moderate Budget:

• Activities: Visit Plaza de España and Maria Luisa Park, followed by a tour of the Alcázar.
• Meals: Lunch at Mercado Lonja del Barranco.
• Leisure: Evening stroll along the Triana district.

High Budget:

• Activities: Private guided tour of the Alcázar and a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city.
• Meals: Dinner at Abantal, a Michelin-starred restaurant.
• Leisure: Exclusive flamenco show at Museo del Baile Flamenco.

    Day 5: Seville to Granada   Moderate Budget:

• Travel Mode: Train to Granada (3 hours).
• Accommodation: Family-friendly options like Hotel Casa 1800.
• Activities: Explore Albayzín and Mirador de San Nicolás.
• Meals: Dinner at Bodegas Castañeda.

High Budget:

• Travel Mode: Private car transfer.
• Accommodation: Stay at Alhambra Palace Hotel.
• Activities: Private evening tour of the Alhambra.
• Meals: Dining with a view at Mirador de Morayma.

    Day 6: Granada - Historical Exploration   Moderate Budget:

• Activities: Morning visit to the Alhambra and Generalife Gardens.
• Meals: Lunch at Restaurante Ruta del Azafrán.
• Leisure: Afternoon exploring the Science Park.

High Budget:

• Activities: Private guided tour of the Alhambra.
• Meals: Gourmet dining at Los Patos.
• Leisure: Exclusive wine tasting session in a nearby vineyard.

    Day 7: Granada to Valencia   Moderate Budget:

• Travel Mode: Train to Valencia (5 hours).
• Accommodation: Mid-range hotels like SH Ingles Boutique Hotel.
• Activities: Visit Oceanogràfic and Bioparc Valencia.
• Meals: Paella dinner at La Pepica.

High Budget:

• Travel Mode: First-class train tickets.
• Accommodation: Luxury stay at Hotel Las Arenas Balneario Resort.
• Activities: Private guided tour of the City of Arts and Sciences.
• Meals: Fine dining at Casa Montaña.

    Day 8: Valencia - Leisure and Fun   Moderate Budget:

• Activities: Beach day at Malvarrosa Beach, followed by a visit to the Central Market.
• Meals: Lunch at a beachside chiringuito.(traditional restaurants are typically right on the beach)
• Leisure: Evening bike ride along the Turia Gardens.

High Budget:

• Activities: Private yacht charter for a day trip along the coast.
• Meals: Lunch on board with a personal chef.
• Leisure: Spa afternoon at the hotel.

    Day 9: Departure from Valencia   Moderate Budget:

• Activities: Last-minute shopping and visit to Llotja de la Seda.
• Travel Mode: Airport transfer by taxi or public transport.

High Budget:

• Activities: Relaxing morning at the hotel pool or spa.
• Travel Mode: Private car transfer to the airport.

    Destination Management Companies in Spain: https://www.intrepiddmc.com/ https://www.across-spain.es/en/  https://www.premiumincoming.com/ https://www.visitportugal.com/

Intrepid Travel has announced the appointment of French hotel veteran Celine Hurelle to lead its expansion into the accommodation sector.    It is aimed at accelerating Intrepid's expansion plans into new verticals, which includes accommodation. Hurelle will report to CEO James Thornton and will work on Intrepid's current accommodation initiatives. She will also work closely with Intrepid's executive leadership globally to identify new opportunities to acquire accommodation that supports the company's responsible ethos. Hurelle previously spent 24 years at global hotel giant Accor, working in various senior roles in Australia, France, Thailand and more. She was most recently Global Head of Brand (VP) for Accor brand Sofitel, based in Paris. Hurelle has strategy, brand and commercial leadership experience. She will be based in Intrepid's global headquarters in Melbourne. Hurelle holds dual French-Australian citizenship. Intrepid has expanded into hotels over the past three years and currently operates two hotels – one in Australia and one in Vietnam. It also has a 50% joint venture with South Australian based off-grid accommodation company, CABN. In Australia, the company owns and operates the four-star, 15-room Daintree Ecolodge in Tropical North Queensland, which it acquired in late 2023. The property has since undergone an extensive renovation and refurbishment following Cyclone Jasper in December, and reopened in March. Intrepid has entered into a three-year lease agreement with the 19-room Hoi An Field Boutique Hotel in Hoi An, Vietnam. This property's capacity services approximately 85-90% Intrepid groups, with the additional 10% booked via direct travellers. Vietnam was the company's most popular destination in 2023. Hurelle said: "To join the company at this time is very exciting, and I look forward to drawing on my two decades of experience to drive expansion into community-led properties." Celine has commenced the role effective immediately. 

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Responsible travel operator Intrepid Travel has cemented its increasing presence in the Middle East with the opening of its first destination management company in Jordan.   Based in Amman, the local team will operate Intrepid's nine small group tours in Jordan from this summer, with a view to expanding the range for 2025 and beyond. Zina Bencheikh, managing director EMEA, said: "Opening a hub in Jordan is a significant milestone for Intrepid.  We see this step as a mark of confidence in the country.” “Despite the current crisis, Jordan has so much to offer our global travellers and we consider it a key destination. “ "Having our own DMC will allow us to take the destination to the next level, diversify our product and introduce new initiatives." Intrepid currently brings 6,000 travellers from Europe, North America and Australia to Jordan each year and aims to double that number by 2030.   

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Intrepid Travel has acquired the 15-room, four-star boutique rainforest retreat, Daintree Ecolodge in Tropical North Queensland. It paid £2.5 million to Morris Group and is its first lodge property purchase. "As we diversify our offering, this new acquisition will play a key role in our evolution towards an iconic lifestyle brand," says CEO James Thornton. The Daintree property is situated in a rainforest and features a restaurant and bar, day spa, natural waterfall and walking track. It offers Lagoon, Canopy and Rainforest rooms. Local activities for guests include guided rainforest walks by the local Kuku Yalanji people. Dating back 135 million years Daintree is the world's oldest tropical lowland rainforest. Last year, Intrepid Travel took a 50% stake in off-grid accommodation company CABN, which has 27 properties across South Australia. " Daintree Ecolodge will allow us to connect with a new market of customers and grow our brand," added Thornton. The lodge is approximately 90-minutes' drive from Cairns International Airport. It is also 40-minutes from Port Douglas for exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Intrepid Travel already operates various multi-day tours in the Daintree area. It includes a five-day Queensland Daintree Explorer tour, 12-day Brisbane to the Daintree Discovery and the 18-day East Coast Encompassed. "This acquisition marks the next chapter in the Intrepid story, as we expand into the accommodation sector,” said Thornton.

Intrepid Travel has launched a new travel consortium in partnership with Flight Centre. It is the first major collaboration aimed at addressing modern slavery supply chain risks across the tourism industry. Walk Free, an international human rights group reported modern slavery impacted an estimated 50 million people in 2022. Supply chains continue to present a great risk due to lack of transparency and access to resources, they say. Intrepid has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to modern slavery in its own operations, and is taking this a step further. With many shared suppliers, Intrepid and Flight Centre have established a joint effort to make a positive change. The new consortium, established through the Informed365 platform, will engage with major suppliers, through an annual, online assessment to identify risks. They will provide the support and tools so suppliers can improve their own practices and those of their own supply chain. Industry suppliers will only need to complete the survey once, and can elect for it to be shared with other business partners. They have begun to roll out these surveys and tools to their suppliers globally. They are now actively encouraging other businesses to join the consortium to eliminate modern slavery in tourism. "For so long businesses in every industry have ignored or fallen short of addressing the risks of modern slavery," said Sara King, GM of Purpose for Intrepid Travel. "We hope the tourism industry can lead this change in mindset for businesses everywhere”. The travel consortium is open to all travel companies around the world that have reporting obligations related to modern slavery, whether they are legislated or voluntary.

 

Intrepid Continues to Support the Rise of Responsible Tourism in Morocco

  Intrepid Travel, the world’s largest B-Corp-certified travel company, is introducing four brand-new trips in Morocco for 2024.   Intrepid's Morocco tours have seen significant growth since the pandemic and the country is now one of its top-selling destinations globally. Intrepid has partnered with the Moroccan National Tourism Office to expand the potential of tourism in the country. The three-year partnership aims to increase the number of visitors in the country to 50,000 each year by 2026.   With 73 local team members based in Intrepid’s Marrakech office and over 2000 departures in the country per year, Intrepid is one of the leading tour operators to the country.   The four brand-new trips include a rare venture through Morocco’s best kept secret, the Happy Valley, otherwise known as the Ait Bougmez region of the High Atlas Mountains. Traversing the country’s third-largest peak by foot, travellers on Intrepid’s Trekking in Morocco Happy Valley in High Atlas (NEW 8-Day Trip from £845pp) will explore cascading waterfalls, ancient ruins and lush vegetation, stopping for homecooked meals in rural villages while learning about the rich history of the Amazigh people, the community that inspired the name “Happy Valley”.   Other New Trips Include:  

• Classic Morocco (NEW 8-Day Trip from £950pp)

  This all-encompassing comfort-level trip includes visits to the sacred Hassan II Mosque, and Roman ruins of Volubilis, an iconic solar-powered Sahara camping experience among the sand dunes, a unique visit and tasting at a Tawesna teahouse run by local women, hiking through the High Atlas Mountain range, and an exploration of the vibrant architecture and flavours of Marrakech.  

• One Week in Morocco: Sahara & Atlas Mountains (NEW 8-Day Trip from £505pp)

  The new One Week in Morocco itinerary was developed exclusively for 18–29-year-old travellers, with a perfect balance of bucket-list experiences and unique adventures, providing a taste of all the best of Intrepid’s Morocco product. From the bustling city streets of Marrakech to a trek through the High Atlas Mountains, and            a solar-powered camp under the Sahara stars.  

• Mt. Toubkal Long Weekend Trek (NEW 5-Day Trip from £400pp)

  On Intrepid’s new Mt.Toubkal Long Weekend tour, travellers will climb the highest   summit in North Africa with expert guides, taking in incredible views of the High Atlas Mountain Range, the Sahara and the Atlantic Coast, experiencing a night in an authentic mountain refuge at Toubkal base camp, and enjoying home-cooked meals full of Moroccan favourites along the way.   Other new experiences include a M'goun Valley Henna Ceremony on Intrepid’s Morocco Uncovered trip, where travellers will learn about the history and significance of henna tattoos and receive their own designs from Naquasha women; and a Taman’Art Space visit on Intrepid’s Premium Morocco tour with a local artist on a terrace overlooking the mountains.   “We are thrilled to be launching this new partnership with MNTO, investing more in the development of tourism in my home country,” says Hala Benkhaldoun, Morocco General Manager for Intrepid Travel. “Morocco is an extremely special place – one that more of the world should have the chance to see,” she adds.   In addition to expanding offerings in Morocco, Intrepid’s non-for-profit The Intrepid Foundation has introduced a new partnership with Moroccan nonprofit The High Atlas Foundation, as one of 22 new partners for the brand globally in 2023. For every traveller booked on an Intrepid trip, the company will make a donation to an NGO partner chosen by its local team including The High Atlas Foundation dedicated to agricultural development, education and health access for women and youth in Morocco, and Education for All, a nonprofit expanding female education access to the remote communities of Morocco.

Intrepid Travel will buy a AUD7.85 million equity stake in accommodation platform CABN. The investment will help deliver more than 70 off-grid, sustainable cabins across Australia by 2023. CABN’s current experiences include 11 minimalist escapes in some of Australia’s most stunning locations. Each cabin is built from predominantly locally sourced and sustainable materials. Their unique design allows guests to immerse themselves in nature. Intrepid Travel’s investment will allow CABN to keep up with with an expected increase of annual room nights from 4,000 to 26,000 across Australia. “There is clear alignment across our shared commitment to sustainability, the environment and Indigenous culture,” said Michael Lamprell, CEO of CABN. The launch of multi-cabin retreat projects across Australia is planned for the future. This includes the recently announced CABN site with the Hans Heysen Foundation at the Cedars in Hahndorf, South Australia, and the Myponga Reservoir project. The partnership between the two Australian-based companies will allow for an increase in the vertical integration of Intrepid’s business. CABN will continue to be run by Michael Lamprell in partnership with Intrepid.

  Intrepid Travel and CABN have announced a partnership which will see Intrepid Travel invest a AUD $7.85 million equity stake, to accelerate growth plans to deliver more than 70 off-grid, sustainable cabins across Australia by 2023.   CABN’s current experiences include 11 cosy minimalist escapes in some of Australia’s most stunning locations. Each cabin is built from predominantly locally sourced and sustainable materials and requires minimal infrastructure with a ‘leave no trace’ philosophy. Their unique design allows guests to immerse themselves in nature and disconnect from everyday life.   During COVID-19 and with borders closed CABN still enjoyed a high average occupancy rate of over 90% and this is expected to increase as consumers continue to embrace sustainable travel. Intrepid Travel’s investment will allow CABN to keep up with the increasing demand, with an expected increase of annual room nights from 4,000 to 26,000 across Australia.   Michael Lamprell, Founder and CEO of CABN, said the partnership with Intrepid Travel will accelerate CABN’s growth.   “We are incredibly pleased we have found the right partner to take CABN forward. There is clear alignment across our shared commitment to sustainability, the environment and Indigenous culture. Intrepid Travel have extensive experience in the sustainable travel space, and this partnership will allow greater opportunity to expand our off-grid accommodation and experiences.”   The launch of multi-cabin retreat style projects across Australia is planned for the future, including the recently announced CABN site in collaboration with the Hans Heysen Foundation at the Cedars in Hahndorf, South Australia, the Myponga Reservoir project and along the enhanced iconic Cooloola Great Walk departing Noosa in the Fraser Coast Region.   “CABN’s offering and business model aligns perfectly with our move into the accommodation vertical and is a natural fit within our vision to grow as a purpose-led adventure travel company,” said James Thornton, CEO of Intrepid Travel. “We know the CABN product is of particular interest, not only to our existing customer base, but to the growing market of travellers worldwide seeking out authentic and sustainable travel experiences.”   The partnership between the two Australian-based companies will allow for an increase in the vertical integration of Intrepid’s business, with future plans to include CABN sites as featured accommodation in a number of the tour operator’s trips.   CABN will continue to be run by Michael Lamprell in partnership with Intrepid. Further terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Intrepid has relaunched its new plant-based Focus Food Adventures tour programme. The 21 tours have been revamped to include a new plant-based experiences on every itinerary. The Real Food Adventures were originally launched in 2013 with six trips designed to give foodies a culinary experience focused on grassroots cuisines and culture. After a pandemic-induced pause, the reintroduced range features 21 tours including longstanding favourites like Mexico, India and Vietnam as well as newer itineraries in South Korea, The Balkans and Israel and Palestine. New for 2022 is a selection of  plant-based experiences that were curated to promote less carbon-intensive eating habits. While the tours will still feature signature meals with traditional meat and fish dishes, the trips have been designed to show the importance of balance towards a more climate-friendly lifestyle. Highlights of the reintroduced Real Food Adventures and 21 plant-based focus experiences include: South Korea Real Food Adventure Travellers will visit South Korea’s slow food capital in Jeonju, seafood in Busan and experience the Gwangang Market in Seoul, famously featured in the Netflix series ‘Street Food’. Plant-based experience: On Day 4 travellers will immerse in monastic life during a temple stay in Gyeongju, which includes a plant-based dinner with chanting meditation and martial arts class. Vietnam Real Food Adventure Travellers experience Vietnam’s cuisine and its place within the culture,from pho and ancient buildings in Hanoi, and banh khoai and imperial citadels in Hue. Plant-based experience: On Day 5 after a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, travellers will enjoy a special lunch stop for a plant-based Buddhist meal at a pagoda.

 

Intrepid’s popular Real Food Adventures range is back with 21 trips and 21 new plant-based experiences that are big on flavour and low on impact. The relaunch is part of Intrepid’s ongoing effort to rebuild responsibly and encourage travellers to take simple but significant steps towards a climate-conscious future

  Intrepid Travel – the B Corp certified world-leader in responsible travel – has relaunched its Real Food Adventures tour range. The 21 tours have been revamped to include a new plant-based experience on every itinerary, part of Intrepid’s ongoing commitment to decarbonise its business and inform a more climate-conscious future for travel.   “Plant-based diets are a major opportunity for mitigating and adapting to climate change,” said Intrepid’s Global Environmental Impact Manager, Susanne Etti. “Plant-based foods generally have a much lower carbon footprint than animal-based foods. As Intrepid continues to innovate in ways that promote and support sustainability, including a delicious meal that showcases local fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds is just one way that we are investing in the health of our planet,” she added.   Intrepid’s Real Food Adventures were originally launched in 2013 with six trips designed to give foodies a culinary experience focused on grassroots cuisines and culture. After a pandemic-induced hiatus, today, the reintroduced range features 21 tours including longstanding favourites like Mexico, India and Vietnam as well as newer itineraries in South Korea, The Balkans and Israel & Palestine.   New for 2022 is a selection of 21 plant-based experiences that were curated to promote less carbon-intensive eating habits and to show travellers how easy it is to make climate-conscious decisions in everyday life.   While the tours will still feature signature meals with traditional meat and fish dishes, the trips have been designed to show the importance of balance and moderation when it comes to making small but significant changes towards a more climate-friendly lifestyle.   Highlights of the reintroduced Real Food Adventures and 21 plant-based experiences include:  

• South Korea Real Food Adventure (8 days from £2,035pp)

  On this trip, travellers will visit South Korea’s slow food capital in Jeonju, dive deep into seafood in Busan and experience the labyrinthian Gwangang Market in Seoul, famously featured in the Netflix series ‘Street Food’.   Plant-based experience: On Day 4 travellers will immerse themselves in monastic life during a temple stay in Gyeongju, which includes a plant-based dinner with chanting meditation and martial arts class.  

• Italy Real Food Adventure (8 days from £1,855pp)

  Uncover the secrets of Italian cuisine while travelling from Venice to Rome. Inspired by the kitchens of the nonna, Italy’s food is authentic and surprising – pizza and pasta are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the diverse array of unforgettable food you’ll find on this adventure.   Plant-based experience: On Day 5 travellers will stay in a traditional Tuscan farmhouse in San Gimignano. Dinner that evening will be a plant-based spread made with ingredients freshly harvested from the farmhouse garden beds, including homemade pasta, salads and vegetables.  

• Japan Real Food Adventure (12 days from £3,920pp)

  Ignite your tastebuds on a culinary journey through Japan’s most delicious hotspots. To the glittering skyscrapers of Tokyo and the lush alps of Takayama, slurp on soba and sample some sake as you work your way through the contrasting flavours of the land of the rising sun.   Plant-based experience: On Day 8 travellers will venture into mountainous Koya-san, spending the night in a monastery and discovering shojin ryori – a traditional plant-based style of eating practiced by Buddhist monks. Meals are prepared with seasonable vegetables and wild plants from the mountains.  

• Mexico Food Adventure (9 days from £1,115pp)

  Get an authentic taste of Mexico on this journey through some of the country’s most famous culinary regions. Meander through Oaxaca’s aromatic markets, take to the streets of Puebla to sample some the city’s local specialties, indulge in fresh seafood on the beach, and take to the streets of Mexico City on a taco crawl to experience a delightful culinary heritage that goes back thousands of years.   Plant-based experience: On Day 4 travellers will enjoy a plant-based spread at a local restaurant specialising in dishes from the Isthmus region of Oaxaca. Tuck into tasty gorditas, tamales with huitlacoche, vegan tlayuda and seasonal fresh fruit.  

• Vietnam Real Food Adventure (12 days from £1,460pp)

  From pho and ancient buildings in Hanoi, banh khoai and imperial citadels in Hue, banh xeo and lantern-lit streets in Hoi An and banh canh and pulsating markets in Ho Chi Minh City, experience Vietnam’s cuisine and its tightly woven place within the culture.   Plant-based experience: On Day 5 after a dragon boat cruise on the Perfume River, travellers will enjoy a special lunch stop for a plant-based Buddhist meal at a pagoda, followed by a visit to the royal tomb of Emperor Tu Duc.   Intrepid Travel has long been advocating for the role our food system plays in the climate crisis. In 2018, the company launched three dedicated vegan real food adventures in India, Italy and Thailand. While these trips are still available as custom and private departures, Intrepid has now shifted focus to embedding more plant-based meals into all of its existing itineraries.

Intrepid has hired Morwenna Francis as new head of marketing for EMEA. Francis led UK marketing for easyJet before joining sustainable coffee brand Pact Coffee in 2020. Based in the company’s Brixton office, she will lead Intrepid’s B2B and B2C marketing strategy in the EMEA region, reporting to managing director, EMEA Zina Bencheikh. She said: “I’m delighted to be joining the Intrepid Travel team and re-joining the travel industry at this key time. Intrepid is a brand I’ve admired for a long time, so I can’t wait to get stuck into the role.” Bencheikh said: “I’m thrilled to have Morwenna join the team. Her role will be vital as we recover from the pandemic and grow sales from the EMEA region, which is key to Intrepid’s 2025 strategy.”