(photo: © G Adventures, Inc.)
National Geographic and G Adventures expand partnership, offering new family trips for 2020 which are on sale now.
National Geographic and G Adventures have officially announced the launch of their expanded partnership, National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures. The new programme of 12 trips is now on sale globally and feature unique National Geographic-inspired experiences for children and adults to connect as a family when they travel together on departures starting in March 2020.
The trips visit 12 countries on five continents and range from eight to 13 days in length, with reduced pricing available to children ages 12 and under. Each small-group tour will be led by two specially-trained Chief Experience Officers, who will deliver one-of-a-kind itineraries and activities to best meet children’s and adults’ interests.
Each activity was designed around four guiding National Geographic themes: photography and storytelling, history and culture, wildlife and conservation, and exploration. Among the destination and activity highlights that families can experience together are: wildlife spotting in Alaska’s national parks, where children can earn a junior ranger badge; pasta making and gladiator school in Italy; sumo wrestling lessons and samurai swordplay in Japan; acrobatics demonstrations with circus performers in Cambodia; and ziplining through the lush Costa Rican rainforest canopy.
The expanded partnership between G Adventures and National Geographic follows the success of National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures, launched in 2015. With the growing popularity of these itineraries, G Adventures and National Geographic identified an opportunity to expand their partnership into the ever-growing family travel market.
“National Geographic Expeditions is thrilled to share the itineraries for the launch of this new line of family trips," said Heather Heverling, National Geographic Senior Vice President of Product Management. “These trips reflect National Geographic’s mission to ignite the explorer in all of us and provide unique travel experiences that help us feel more connected to the natural world and the many differing cultures in it. This expanded partnership with G Adventures has given us a new opportunity to provide one-of-a-kind, immersive experiences to travellers who want to make meaningful, lifelong memories with members of their family.”
Before developing the new program, National Geographic and G Adventures surveyed family travellers around the world to gain insights into what they most want in a family trip. A vast majority (85 percent) of travellers surveyed said they would prefer activities the whole family can enjoy together vs. those that allow for separate adult relaxation time. Guided by this new research, National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures was built as a collection of new itineraries in exciting destinations that allow families to focus on what’s really important – having fun, connecting, learning, and creating lasting memories together.
“What really excites me about this new family travel style is how much learning, bonding, adventure and enjoyment is included, for every member of the family, at such an accessible price,” said G Adventures’ Managing Director for EMEA, Brian Young.
“Between National Geographic’s rich storytelling and G Adventures’ local expertise, families will discover that there is no need for compromise. Parents and children will each find something to look forward to – starting from pre-trip materials like family field guides and photography tips to spark a child’s imagination, to unique destination experiences that will impress even the most seasoned adult travellers,” added Young.
Overwhelmingly (81 percent), family travellers who were surveyed said they ‘love to learn’ while travelling; another 73 percent said they especially love the outdoors. Even more significant, was how people identified family – not just the nuclear family, but multigenerational – including grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. For more than 90 percent of these multigenerational travellers, ‘creating long-lasting memories’ and ‘bonding with each other’ are the most important outcomes of a family holiday, along with ‘having fun’.
All 12 trips in the National Geographic Family Journeys collection are now bookable online at G Adventures and National Geographic Expeditions as well as through travel agents. Sample trips offered include:
Morocco Family Journey: Ancient Souks to the Sahara
Discover the magic of Morocco on a journey that takes you from bustling markets, to soaring desert dunes. Meet enchanting musicians and storytellers steeped in Berber heritage, and try your hand at cooking up colourful local dishes. Hike past stunning rock formations, climb windswept sands, and uncover ancient secrets in green oases and grand palaces.
Costa Rica Family Journey: From Rainforest to Coast – 9 Days
Blanketed in pristine rainforest, lined by golden sands, and brimming with curious-looking creatures, Costa Rica is the ultimate family playground. Explore inland jungles and volcanic wonders in every way possible: soaring on a zip line, riding on horseback, and hiking misty trails. Then head for the Gold Coast on the Pacific Ocean for some sun, surf, and adventures out at sea.
Iceland Family Journey: Geysers, Glaciers, and Fjords – 8 Days
From glittering glaciers to black-sand beaches, Iceland’s wild landscapes will surprise and inspire travellers of all ages. Explore this subarctic isle’s natural and cultural treasures alongside our dynamic guides as you step behind the curtain of a spectacular waterfall or hike to the edge of a volcanic crater. Descend inside a lava tunnel, delve into Viking history, or opt to try your hand at riding hardy Icelandic horses.
Southern Africa Family Journey: In Search of the Big Five – 11 Days
Boasting jaw-dropping scenery and some of the planet’s most iconic wildlife, southern Africa makes for an unforgettable family adventure. On this action-packed journey, venture to South Africa to seek out the legendary “big five” on safari, soak up the charms of cosmopolitan Cape Town, and see the penguins march along Boulders Beach. Then top off your journey in Zimbabwe with a tour of thundering Victoria Falls.
Japan Family Journey: From Ancient to Modern Times – 11 Days
Japan is a feast for the senses, from its electrifying neon-lit neighbourhoods to tranquil hilltop temples. Experience an intriguing mix of modernity and tradition as we explore dazzling Tokyo, imperial Kyoto, and the mountain city of Nagano. Wander Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, practice sumo wrestling and samurai swordplay, and sample wasabi-infused culinary concoctions. In this fascinating land of anime, snow monkeys, and high-speed trains, there is something to delight every member of the family.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
