Why May Is Secretly the Best Month to Visit the Balkans

When most people think about travelling to the Balkans, they picture July and August: bright sun, busy old towns and packed coastlines. But those in the know will tell you a different story.

May is the Balkans’ best-kept secret.
It’s the month when landscapes are at their greenest, temperatures are ideal for exploring, and the region still feels wonderfully unhurried.

If you’re looking for an authentic, crowd-free experience, here’s why May might just be the perfect time to visit the Balkans.

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1. Perfect Weather for Actually Exploring

One of the biggest advantages of travelling to the Balkans in May is the weather.

Spring has fully arrived, but the summer heat hasn’t yet set in. Across countries like Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina and North Macedonia, you can expect:

• Warm, comfortable days (around 18–25°C)
• Cooler evenings — ideal for sleeping and dining outdoors
• Plenty of sunshine without the oppressive heat

This is the kind of weather that invites you to walk old towns, hike mountain trails, explore national parks and linger over long lunches — without constantly looking for shade.

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2. Fewer Crowds, More Local Life

By May, the Balkans are awake but not overwhelmed.

Cruise ships haven’t reached peak season, European school holidays haven’t started, and many destinations are still refreshingly calm. That means:

• Historic towns you can explore without queues
• Coastal villages that still feel lived-in, not staged
• More genuine interactions with locals

Instead of battling crowds, you’ll see people going about daily life — fishermen mending nets, cafés filling with regulars, markets at their most colourful. This is slow, meaningful travel, exactly how the Balkans are meant to be experienced.

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3. The Landscapes Are at Their Most Beautiful

If you care about scenery, May is unbeatable.

Spring rains have done their work, and the region is lush and vibrant:

• Mountains are green and full of wildflowers
• Rivers and waterfalls are flowing at full force
• Vineyards and olive groves are coming back to life

From the dramatic peaks of Durmitor National Park to the valleys of Albania’s countryside, May shows the Balkans at their most photogenic — and most alive.

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4. It’s the Best Month for Active Travel

The Balkans are made for active, outdoor travel, and May hits the sweet spot.

It’s ideal for:

• Hiking and walking holidays
• Cycling quiet country roads
• Kayaking, rafting and lake swimming
• Scenic road trips without traffic or heat

Later in summer, many of these activities become harder (or less enjoyable) due to high temperatures. In May, you can do more, see more and enjoy it properly.

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5. Better Value, Without Compromise

Travelling in May often means better value — without sacrificing quality.

Accommodation prices are generally lower than in peak summer, guides and drivers are more available, and popular places don’t yet charge “high season” premiums. You’re getting:

• More choice
• Better service
• A calmer, more personal experience

It’s one of those rare times where value and quality align.

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6. Festivals, Food and Seasonal Traditions

May is a wonderful month for culture and food across the Balkans, marking the transition from spring into early summer.

Some highlights include:

• Saint George’s Day (Đurđevdan / Hıdırellez) – Celebrated in early May across Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro and North Macedonia. It’s one of the most important spring festivals in the region, associated with renewal, music, riverside gatherings and traditional food.
• Wine and olive oil events in Montenegro and Albania – May often brings small, local tastings and harvest celebrations, particularly around Lake Skadar and coastal Albania, where family-run producers open their doors before the busy summer season.

Seasonally, May is when Balkan kitchens really come into their own:

• Fresh cheeses, wild greens and herbs feature heavily in local dishes
• Early strawberries, cherries and honey appear in markets
• Menus shift towards lighter, outdoor eating — grilled vegetables, lake fish and slow lunches shared in village courtyards

It’s a time when food, festivals and daily life feel closely connected — and visitors are welcomed into traditions rather than watching them from the sidelines.

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So, Is May the Best Time to Visit the Balkans?

If you’re looking for:

• Comfortable weather
• Fewer tourists
• Lush landscapes
• Better value
• A more authentic connection with the places you visit

Then yes — May is quietly the best month to travel in the Balkans.

At Untravelled Paths, it’s one of our favourite times to explore the region. It’s when the Balkans feel most like themselves — before the crowds arrive, and while the sense of discovery is still intact.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Why May Is Secretly the Best Month to Visit the Balkans appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/why-may-is-secretly-the-best-month-to-visit-the-balkans/

Where Should You Go Based on Your Travel Personality?

At Untravelled Paths, we believe the best trips often include a bit of everything – great food, meaningful cultural encounters, time in nature and moments that genuinely take your breath away. That said, we also know that everyone has their stand-out travel passions. Whether you travel for food, culture, wildlife or once-in-a-lifetime experiences, certain destinations shine brighter than the rest.

Here’s our guide to where to go based on your travel personality, featuring the countries and regions that consistently deliver unforgettable experiences for our travellers.

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Foodies

Italy: If your travels revolve around what’s on the plate, Italy needs little introduction, but venture beyond the obvious and it becomes even more rewarding. In Puglia, food is simple, seasonal and deeply tied to the land. Expect handmade orecchiette, fresh burrata straight from the farm and long lunches fuelled by local olive oil and wine. Bologna, often called Italy’s food capital, is a dream for serious food lovers, with rich ragù, fresh pasta and bustling markets that celebrate tradition at its finest.

Slovenia: Maybe surprise even seasoned foodies. This small country boasts an impressively sophisticated food and wine culture, shaped by Alpine, Mediterranean and Balkan influences. Slovenia is also home to an extraordinary number of Michelin-starred restaurants, including world-renowned names that focus on sustainability, foraging and storytelling through food. From natural wines to innovative tasting menus, Slovenia is fast becoming one of Europe’s most exciting gastronomic destinations.

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Local Flavour & Culture

Georgia: For travellers who crave genuine cultural connection, Georgia offers one of the richest experiences anywhere in the world. Sitting at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia’s culture has been shaped by Persian, Ottoman, Russian and Caucasian influences. Ancient monasteries cling to mountainsides, polyphonic singing fills village homes and hospitality is legendary. Food and wine are inseparable from culture here, with traditional feasts (supras) offering a deep insight into Georgian identity.

Bosnia & Herzegovina: Equally compelling, with a cultural tapestry woven from Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Slavic heritage. In cities like Sarajevo and Mostar, mosques, churches and synagogues exist side by side, telling powerful stories of coexistence and resilience. Coffee rituals, local markets and heartfelt conversations with locals reveal a country that rewards curiosity. For travellers seeking authentic cultural travel, both destinations offer depth, warmth and unforgettable human connection.

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Into the Wild

South Africa: If wildlife and raw nature are what draw you in, South Africa is hard to beat. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can experience marine wildlife, including whales, seals and penguins, alongside classic safari adventures. The country is famous for Big Five safaris, offering incredible game viewing in diverse landscapes, from vast savannahs to private reserves that prioritise conservation and ethical travel.

Romania: Europe’s wild secret. Home to some of the continent’s last great wilderness areas, it supports healthy populations of brown bears, grey wolves and European bison. The Carpathian Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for wildlife tracking, while the Danube Delta is a UNESCO-listed paradise for birdlife and slow, nature-focused exploration. For travellers who want to reconnect with nature without crowds, Romania delivers true wild Europe experiences.

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Great Outdoors & Active Adventure

Slovenia: For those who feel most alive outdoors, Slovenia is a playground of adventure. In a single trip, you can hike in the Julian Alps, kayak turquoise rivers, cycle through vineyards and explore underground caves. Its compact size makes it perfect for active travel, while excellent infrastructure ensures experiences are accessible without feeling overdeveloped.

Montenegro: Offers a more rugged but equally thrilling outdoor scene. Dramatic mountains plunge into the Adriatic Sea, creating endless opportunities for hiking, rafting, canyoning and kayaking. Durmitor National Park, the Tara Canyon and the Bay of Kotor provide jaw-dropping backdrops for adventure. Both countries are ideal for travellers seeking active holidays in Europe that combine challenge, scenery and cultural richness.

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Once-in-a-Lifetime

Lapland: Some journeys are simply unforgettable, and Lapland is one of them. Winter here is pure magic, think husky sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer encounters and nights spent searching for the Northern Lights. Add in stays at unique glass-roofed accommodation, where you can watch the Arctic sky from your bed, and Lapland becomes a true bucket-list destination.

Botswana: Offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience unlike anywhere else in Africa. Luxury mobile safaris move with the seasons, placing you at the heart of the wilderness. The Okavango Delta is a highlight, with mokoro canoe safaris and extraordinary wildlife encounters, including the Big Five. From tracking meerkats to sleeping under the stars in the Makgadikgadi pans, Botswana delivers profound, soul-stirring moments that stay with you forever.

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Love a Bit of Everything? Go Epic.

If you see yourself in more than one travel personality, you’re not alone. That’s exactly why we created the Untravelled Paths Epic Journeys. Designed for curious, open-minded travellers, it brings together culture, nature, adventure and unforgettable experiences into one seamless, life-changing trip.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Where Should You Go Based on Your Travel Personality? appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/where-should-you-go-based-on-your-travel-personality/

Untravelled Paths’ Favourite Eastern European Cities You’ll Fall in Love With

Eastern Europe is packed with character, history and unforgettable landscapes — and at Untravelled Paths, these five cities sit firmly at the top of our favourites list. From medieval old towns and dramatic mountains to café culture and resilient creativity, each destination offers something truly distinctive. If you’re searching for authentic Eastern European cities, rich culture and places that still feel refreshingly undiscovered, these should be on your radar.

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Kotor, Montenegro – Where Mountains Meet the Sea

Kotor is one of the most breathtaking cities in Eastern Europe, tucked deep within the dramatic Bay of Kotor and surrounded by towering limestone mountains. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is a maze of cobbled lanes, Venetian palaces and quiet squares that feel untouched by time. What makes Kotor truly special is the contrast — one moment you’re sipping coffee by the water, the next you’re climbing ancient fortress walls with jaw-dropping views across the bay.

Beyond its beauty, Kotor has a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere. Cruise ships may pass through, but linger a little longer and you’ll discover a local rhythm that rewards slow travel. Hike the Ladder of Kotor, explore hidden churches, or take a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks. For travellers seeking scenic Eastern European cities with history, nature and soul, Kotor delivers in spades.

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Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina – Where Cultures Truly Meet

Sarajevo is one of Europe’s most fascinating and emotionally powerful cities. Often described as the place “where East meets West”, it’s a city where mosques, synagogues, Orthodox and Catholic churches stand within minutes of each other. Walking through Sarajevo feels like travelling through centuries in a single afternoon — from Ottoman bazaars to Austro-Hungarian boulevards.

What sets Sarajevo apart is its warmth and resilience. Despite its turbulent past, the city pulses with creativity, humour and hospitality. Coffee culture is sacred here, and sitting in Baščaršija with a traditional Bosnian coffee is a must. Add in incredible food, powerful museums and a surrounding landscape of green hills, and Sarajevo becomes a deeply moving destination. For those wanting authentic cultural experiences in Eastern Europe, Sarajevo is unforgettable.

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Ljubljana, Slovenia – Europe’s Greenest Capital

Ljubljana may be small, but it punches far above its weight. Consistently ranked among Europe’s greenest and most liveable cities, the Slovenian capital is charming, youthful and effortlessly stylish. The car-free city centre, leafy riverbanks and abundance of outdoor cafés make it a joy to explore on foot.

Ljubljana’s uniqueness lies in its balance — historic architecture sits comfortably alongside modern design, while nature is never far away. Climb up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views, wander across the city’s iconic bridges, or enjoy the buzzing food scene driven by local, seasonal ingredients. With its eco-conscious mindset, friendly locals and relaxed pace, Ljubljana is perfect for travellers seeking sustainable Eastern European city breaks without sacrificing culture or atmosphere.

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Sibiu, Romania – A Medieval Gem in Transylvania

Sibiu feels like something out of a storybook. Located in the heart of Transylvania, this beautifully preserved medieval city is known for its colourful houses, grand squares and famously “watchful” rooftops. Its historic centre is compact yet packed with charm, making it ideal for slow, immersive exploration.

What makes Sibiu special is how seamlessly it blends history with creativity. Once a European Capital of Culture, the city boasts vibrant arts, excellent museums and a growing food scene rooted in Saxon and Romanian traditions. Step outside the city and you’ll find the dramatic Carpathian Mountains, perfect for hiking and road trips. For travellers searching for underrated Eastern European cities, Sibiu offers culture, beauty and authenticity without the crowds.

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Tirana, Albania – Colourful, Creative and Constantly Evolving

Tirana is one of the most exciting and surprising capitals in Eastern Europe. Bold, energetic and unapologetically creative, it’s a city that has reinvented itself through colour, art and community. Once-grey buildings now burst with murals, cafés spill onto the streets, and the atmosphere is optimistic and forward-looking.

What truly sets Tirana apart is its raw authenticity. You can explore Cold War bunkers turned museums, stroll around Skanderbeg Square, then escape to nearby mountains or beaches within an hour. The food scene is outstanding, blending Mediterranean and Balkan flavours at excellent value. For adventurous travellers keen to explore emerging Eastern European destinations, Tirana offers a vibrant introduction to a country full of surprises.

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Ready to Explore Eastern Europe Differently?

These cities are just a glimpse of why we believe Eastern Europe is one of the most rewarding regions to explore. At Untravelled Paths, we specialise in journeys that go beyond the obvious — slower, deeper and more meaningful travel experiences that connect you with place and people.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Untravelled Paths’ Favourite Eastern European Cities You’ll Fall in Love With appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/favourite-eastern-european-cities/

The Best Activities on Our Lapland Experience for Adults and Children

I’ve just returned from Lapland with my family, and even after visiting many times over the years while creating and refining our Untravelled Paths experiences, this trip felt different. Seeing Lapland through the eyes of my child, wide-eyed, excited and completely absorbed, made it even more magical. It reminded me why this destination is quite simply the ultimate festive escape for families, especially those travelling with younger children.

Lapland has a reputation for being expensive, which it certainly is, but it offers better value for families as adding a child doesn’t increase the cost dramatically, which makes the overall experience far more justifiable – particularly when you consider just how much is packed into a short stay. And with 2026 set to be the final year of heightened Northern Lights activity, there’s never been a better time to go.

Here are some of the standout activities that made our recent trip so special, for adults and children alike, along with our own holiday snaps!

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Husky Sledding

This was an instant favourite for all of us. There’s something unforgettable about gliding silently through snowy forests, powered by a team of enthusiastic huskies. Children absolutely love meeting the dogs beforehand, while adults appreciate the sheer beauty of the landscape. It’s thrilling without being overwhelming – a perfect introduction to Arctic adventure.

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Skiing for All Levels

Lapland is an excellent place to ski, particularly for beginners and families. The slopes are gentle, well organised and far less intimidating than larger Alpine resorts. Whether you’re completely new or brushing up on your technique, it’s accessible, enjoyable and stress-free.

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Traditional Sauna & Ice Plunge

A very Finnish experience and surprisingly family-friendly. After warming up in a traditional wooden sauna, the brave can try an ice plunge – optional, of course! For adults, it’s invigorating and deeply relaxing. For children, it’s all part of the fun and a great story to take home.

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Feeding Reindeer

A calm, memorable experience that younger children in particular adore. Feeding reindeer offers a chance to slow things down, learn about Sámi culture and get close to these iconic Arctic animals in a respectful, meaningful way.

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Visiting an Ice Hotel

Another highlight, especially for first-timers. Visiting an Ice Hotel is fascinating in itself, but there’s also the option to eat there or even stay overnight, which we can organise on request. It’s a unique experience that adds an extra layer of adventure to the trip.

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Sleeping Under the Northern Lights in a Glass Hotel Room

This is one of those experiences that stays with you forever. Falling asleep beneath the stars, and if you’re lucky the Northern Lights, is truly special. For those who can afford the upgrade, I strongly recommend choosing a glass room with a private hot tub. It’s the perfect way to end the day, children absolutely love them, and there’s something unforgettable about soaking under the Arctic sky with the aurora dancing overhead.

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Visiting Santa’s Village

If you’re travelling with young children, Santa’s Village is pure magic. Meeting Santa himself is, unsurprisingly, the highlight — but there’s so much more. Activities such as the Ice Bar, rubber ring ice slides, snowmobiling for children, and plenty of festive attractions make this far more than a quick visit. It’s immersive, joyful and wonderfully festive without feeling tacky.

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As our trip came to an end, it really struck me that these were just the activities we chose. Lapland offers so much more — from reindeer rides, ice karting, snowshoeing, ice skating, Northern Lights snow mobiling tours and countless other winter experiences. You could return time and time again and still discover something new.

Is Lapland Worth the Cost?

Honestly? Yes. This isn’t a cheap adventure, but it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all of us. Packing so much into just three nights kept the children busy, engaged and completely off their screens — something that felt increasingly rare and incredibly valuable.

Ready to Experience Lapland?

Lapland books up well in advance, especially for festive dates and peak Northern Lights seasons. If this is an experience you’ve been considering, particularly with 2026 marking the final year of heightened aurora activity, I’d strongly encourage planning sooner rather than later.

If you’d like to join us on our Lapland Experience, we’d love to help you create memories your family will talk about for years to come. Don’t over think it, just book it, you won’t regret it.

Written by James Chisnall

The post The Best Activities on Our Lapland Experience for Adults and Children appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/the-best-activities-on-our-lapland-experience/

Group Discounts: Big Adventures, Bigger Savings

Travelling together has never been more rewarding. Untravelled Paths’ Group Discounts offer substantial savings of 35% or more when a minimum group size is reached before the deal expires. Once the required numbers are met, the trip runs at the discounted price — simple, transparent and a genuine win-win. Travellers enjoy unbeatable value on expertly curated small-group adventures, while Untravelled Paths secures the numbers needed to operate responsibly. If you’re flexible on dates and open to travelling with like-minded people, these group travel deals are some of the best-value adventures available.

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The Lapland Experience

The Lapland Experience is a short but unforgettable Arctic escape. Over three magical nights, guests dive straight into Finnish Lapland’s snowy wilderness with thrilling husky sledding, restorative sauna sessions followed by an ice plunge, and nights spent in atmospheric glass accommodation. A visit to Santa Claus Village adds a playful, seasonal highlight, while evenings are dedicated to watching the skies for the Northern Lights. With the group discount unlocked once eight people commit, this bucket-list winter adventure becomes surprisingly accessible — offering exceptional value for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Trip Dates: Selected winter dates
• Group Discount: 35% off
• Minimum Capacity: 8 travellers
• Duration: 3 nights

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The Western Cape Safari Experience

Blending culture, coastline and wildlife, the Western Cape Safari Experience delivers remarkable variety. This nine-night journey takes in the highlights of Cape Town, panoramic views from Table Mountain, tastings in the Winelands, and close-up encounters with penguins along the coast. The experience is elevated further with unforgettable safari moments, including elephant encounters. When the minimum group size is reached, travellers unlock a 35% saving, making this one of the most compelling small-group safari experiences in South Africa for value, comfort and diversity.

• Trip Dates: Selected dates
• Group Discount: 35% off
• Minimum Capacity: 8 travellers
• Duration: 9 nights

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The Adriatic & Beyond Experience

Designed for travellers who love depth and discovery, the Adriatic & Beyond Experience is a two-week journey through the heart of the Balkans. Highlights include the spectacular Koman Ferry, hiking in the Albanian Alps, and exploring Durmitor National Park. Cultural immersion continues in Sarajevo and Mostar before finishing beside the tranquil waters of Kotor Bay. Once eight travellers join, the 35% group discount transforms this expansive itinerary into outstanding value, rewarding early commitment with significant savings on a truly enriching European adventure.

• Trip Dates: Selected dates
• Group Discount: 35% off
• Minimum Capacity: 8 travellers
• Duration: 14 nights

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The Delta To Cape Experience

The Delta To Cape Experience combines some of southern Africa’s most iconic landscapes into one unforgettable journey. From a luxury mobile safari in the Okavango Delta to unique encounters with meerkats and exhilarating quad biking, the adventure is rich in once-in-a-lifetime moments. The trip continues through Cape Town, the Winelands, penguin-filled coastlines and ends in Hermanus. When the group discount is activated, this premium itinerary offers rare access to luxury safari and city experiences at a dramatically reduced price.

• Trip Dates: Selected dates
• Group Discount: 35% off
• Minimum Capacity: 8 travellers
• Duration: 14 nights

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Why Group Discounts Work

Once the minimum capacity is reached, everyone benefits. Travellers enjoy exceptional savings on thoughtfully designed small-group adventures, while Untravelled Paths can confidently operate trips with the right numbers. It’s collaborative travel at its best – fair, transparent and rewarding.

Ready to Unlock 35% Off?

Group Discount places are limited and only confirmed once the minimum number of travellers is met. If one of these experiences has caught your eye, register your interest early, share the trip with friends, or join solo and connect with fellow travellers. Secure your place, help unlock the deal, and experience extraordinary journeys for less with Untravelled Paths.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Group Discounts: Big Adventures, Bigger Savings appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/group-discounts-big-adventures-bigger-savings/