The Do’s & Don’ts When Making Friends On A Group Tour

Group tours are a great way to explore new destinations and meet new people and making friends on a group tour can be a fun and rewarding experience! – But it’s important to be mindful of the other guests on the tour. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to ensure that you have a positive and respectful interaction with your fellow travellers!

DO introduce yourself

Introducing yourself to others in the group and initiating a conversation is a great way to break the ice and start building connections with your fellow travelers. Ask about their travel experiences and share your own stories. Who knows, you might even make some new friends along the way!

DON’T Exclude others

Don’t form exclusive groups or cliques that exclude other travelers. Everyone on the tour deserves to feel included and welcome so be inclusive and try to involve everyone in activities and conversations.

DO be open-minded

Be open to meeting new people and learning about their backgrounds and cultures. Keep an open mind and be willing to step outside your comfort zone.

DON’T Ignore personal boundaries

Be mindful of other people’s personal space and boundaries. Don’t invade their personal space or make them feel uncomfortable. Respect others’ privacy and avoid prying into their personal lives.

DO participate in group activities

Participating in group activities like tours, meals, and sightseeing can help you bond with others in the group. You can also suggest activities that you are interested in and invite others to join you. Attending group social events, such as happy hours or dinners is really great at getting to know other travellers outside of the tour activities.

DON’T be a know-it-all

Nobody likes a know-it-all! It’s important to remember that group tours are meant to be enjoyable and informative experiences for everyone involved. While it’s great to be knowledgeable about the places you’re visiting, it’s equally important to be respectful of other people’s perspectives and contributions. One way to avoid dominating the tour is to actively listen to what others have to say and engage with them in a collaborative manner. Encourage other people to share their thoughts and experiences, and be open to learning from them.

DO be approachable

Smile, make eye contact, and be approachable. Make yourself available and willing to talk to others. Share snacks, drinks, or other small items with others in the group. This can be a great icebreaker and can help you connect with others.

DON’T complain excessively

It’s understandable to have concerns or complaints while traveling, but it’s important to keep in mind that excessive complaining can have a negative impact on the group dynamic and the overall experience. Remember that travel can sometimes involve unexpected challenges or setbacks, and try to keep things in perspective.

DO use social media

Using social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram to connect with others in the group before the trip is a great way to break the ice and make it easier to start a conversation in person. If you see a post that features an upcoming trip of yours, comment on it! We love seeing guests interact with each other in the comment section.

DON’T be late

Don’t be late for group activities as it can disrupt the tour schedule and cause inconvenience to others. Being punctual is an important aspect of being a considerate and respectful traveler, especially when you’re part of a group tour. Arriving on time helps ensure that the group activities run smoothly and everyone has a positive and enjoyable experience.

DO be respectful

Be respectful of others in the group and their boundaries. Don’t push others to do things they’re not comfortable with or share personal information they’re not willing to disclose. Avoid making rude or disrespectful comments, jokes, or gestures and be mindful of your language and actions.

DON’T be rude to the tour guide

And lastly – Don’t be rude to the tour guide or other guests. Be patient and understanding if there are delays or unexpected changes to the itinerary. Our tour guides work incredibly hard to ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable experience. Being respectful towards them is a simple way to show your appreciation for their efforts and make their job a little easier.

Remember that making friends on a group tour takes effort and may require you to step outside your comfort zone. But with the right attitude and approach, you can create meaningful connections with others and have an unforgettable travel experience!

Written by Lucy Kaufmann

The post The Do’s & Don’ts When Making Friends On A Group Tour appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

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16 Images That Will Make You Want To Visit Romania

Romania boasts an abundance of natural beauty that is truly breathtaking. From the majestic Carpathian Mountains to the winding Danube River, the country offers an array of diverse landscapes that are a feast for the eyes. The lush green forests, pristine lakes, and picturesque valleys are just a few examples of the stunning scenery that Romania has to offer. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Romania’s natural beauty is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. Don’t believe us? These 16 images will soon change your mind!

Balea Lake

Photos by @gabriela.gheorghe & @vanafou

One of Romania’s amazing natural wonders, Bâlea Lake is a spectacular, must-see landmark. The glacier lake has been carved 2,034 metres (6,673 feet) up into the rugged stones of the Făgăraș Mountains.

Cabana Valea Sâmbetei trail

Photos by @zborpestemuntiiromaniei & @vladm_photography

Located at the edge of the alpine gap, the chalet offers a spectacular view of the Sâmbeta Valley, with the Great Window and the famous Colț Bălăceni (also known as the Matterhorn of Romania) in the foreground. The explosion of colourful crocuses can be admired between April 20 and May 15, depending on weather conditions.

The Statue of Decebalus

Photos by @newlighttravel

The rock sculpture of Decebalus is a colossal carving of the face of Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, who fought against the Roman emperors Domitian and Trajan to preserve the independence of his country, which corresponds to present-day Romania. 

Făgăraș Mountains

Photos by @gloriacretu

Over 70 km long and 40 km wide, Fagaras, also known as Transylvania’s Alps, have hundreds of peaks above 2,000 meters and is the biggest alpine habitat in Romania.

Transfăgărăşan Road

Photos by @toskalahti & @adriana.lphotography

The iconic Transfăgărășan or DN7C is a paved mountain road crossing the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains of Romania. It has national road ranking and is the second-highest paved road in the country after the Transalpina.

Râpa Roșie

Photos by @simona_tinca & @radovici_andrei

Romania’s “Red Ravine” is a little-known natural wonder that bears a resemblance to the Grand Canyon. Over the last 60 million years, water has carved deep into the gravel, sandstone, and quartz of the plateau’s sublayer, creating unusual natural spiked towers and pyramid shapes in the red clay. 

Danube Delta

Photos by @alexacatrinei & @holbinaresort

The waters of the Danube, which flow into the Black Sea, form the largest and best preserved of Europe’s deltas. The Danube delta hosts over 300 species of birds as well as 45 freshwater fish species in its numerous lakes and marshes.

Salina Turda

Photos by @@helium.air

With over 2,000 years of history, highly preserved galleries, and a futuristic underground attraction, Romania’s Salina Turda is the largest salt mine museum in the world, and easily the most incredible.

Has Romania’s natural beauty won over your heart? Why not join us on our next trip there! Click here to check out all our Romanian experiences and get in contact at info@untravelledpaths.com.

Written by Lucy Kaufmann

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The European Capital Quiz!

Do you know Europe well and think you could name the capitals? Take our fun quiz and see. Below you’ll find questions on a selection of European countries and can choose which city you think is the correct capital from the multiple-choice options. There are 30 questions below. Have fun and no cheating!

TAKE THE QUIZ!

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Unique Cultural Events from Around the World

From colourful festivals to unique traditions, the world is full of cultural events that are both fascinating and unforgettable. These events offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of a community, providing a unique perspective on their history, beliefs, and way of life. Whether it’s witnessing the bizarre yet breathtaking spectacle of Spain’s La Tomatina, participating in the dragon festival in Slovenia, or indulging in the mouth-watering fish dishes in Italy, cultural events are an excellent way to connect with locals and deepen one’s appreciation for their culture. So read ahead and explore some of the most unique and captivating cultural events from around the world, providing inspiration for your next adventure and a glimpse into the incredible diversity of human culture!

Sighisoara Medieval Festival, Romania

Romania is a country rich in history, traditions, and folklore, with many unique cultural experiences to explore. The Sighisoara Medieval Festival is an annual cultural event that takes place in the historic town of Sighisoara, Romania. The festival celebrates the town’s rich medieval history and heritage, and features a range of events and activities that transport visitors back in time. The festival usually takes place in July and attracts thousands of visitors from all over Romania and beyond. During the festival, the town’s streets and squares are filled with medieval-themed activities, including jousting tournaments, archery contests, and sword-fighting demonstrations. Visitors can also enjoy traditional crafts and workshops, where they can learn about medieval woodworking, metalworking, and leatherworking techniques. There are also traditional music and dance performances, and plenty of local food and drink to sample. So whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and festive event, the Sighisoara Medieval Festival is definitely worth a visit.

Sagra del Pesce, Italy

Photos by @charterboat.it

The Sagra del Pesce, or Fish Festival, is an annual cultural event that takes place in the coastal town of Camogli, in the Liguria region of Italy. The festival is dedicated to celebrating the local fishing industry and the bounty of the sea. The Fish Festival usually occurs in mid-May and attracts thousands of visitors from all over Italy and beyond. During the festival, the town’s picturesque harbor is transformed into a giant open-air kitchen, where local chefs prepare and serve a variety of seafood dishes, including fried anchovies, grilled calamari, and seafood risotto. One of the highlights of the Fish Festival is the traditional fish fry, which takes place on the final day of the event. Thousands of small fish, usually anchovies, are fried in giant copper pans over open fires and served to the hungry crowds. In addition to the food, the Fish Festival features a range of cultural events and activities, including live music performances, dance shows, and traditional boat races. Visitors can also enjoy guided tours of Camogli’s historic landmarks and take part in workshops on traditional fishing techniques and seafood preparation. It doesn’t matter if you’re more of a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a fun and festive event, the Fish Festival should be on everyone’s bucket list!

Sarajevo Film Festival, Bosnia

Photos by @sarajevofilmfestival

Film buffs rejoice! The Sarajevo Film Festival is one of the largest and most important film festivals in the Balkans. It takes place in the city of Sarajevo and features international and local films, as well as workshops and other events. First held in 1995, the Sarajevo Film Festival is a showcase for the best of regional and international cinema, with a focus on films from Southeast Europe and the Mediterranean. The festival features a range of events and activities, including film screenings, workshops, panel discussions, and awards ceremonies. One of the unique aspects of the Sarajevo Film Festival is its focus on promoting cultural diversity and dialogue. The festival brings together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences from all over the world, providing a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas. The festival is known for its lively and festive atmosphere, with visitors from all over the world coming together to celebrate the art of cinema.

La Tomatina, Spain

Pack your goggles, we’re having a food fight! La Tomatina is an annual festival that takes place in the town of Buñol, near Valencia, Spain. The festival is held on the last Wednesday of August and involves thousands of people throwing tomatoes at each other in a friendly food fight. The origins of the festival are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have started in the mid-1940s when a group of young people began throwing tomatoes at each other during a parade. Over the years, the festival grew in popularity and became an official event in the 1950s. Today, La Tomatina attracts thousands of tourists from around the world who come to participate in the tomato fight. The event begins early in the morning when trucks filled with overripe tomatoes arrive in the town’s main square. Participants gather in the square, and at precisely 11 am, a signal is given, and the tomato fight begins. For the next hour, participants throw tomatoes at each other, creating a giant mess of red pulp and seeds. After the tomato fight ends, the streets are hosed down, and participants often head to local bars and restaurants to continue the festivities.

Flower Fair of Medellín, Colombia

Photos by @margiesadventures & @raularboleda⁠

The Flower Fair of Medellín, or Feria de las Flores in Spanish, is an annual festival held in the city of Medellín, Colombia. It is a ten-day event that takes place in early August and is a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage. The festival began in 1957 as a small parade of flowers but has since grown to become one of the city’s most important cultural events. It now attracts visitors from all over Colombia and the world. The highlight of the festival is the Desfile de Silleteros, or the Silleteros Parade, which takes place on the final day. The Silleteros are farmers from the nearby town of Santa Elena who carry large flower arrangements, called silletas, on their backs. The silletas are made up of a variety of flowers and are arranged in intricate designs. The Flower Fair of Medellín is not only a celebration of the city’s flowers and gardens but also of its people and culture. It is a unique cultural experience that should not be missed if you are visiting Colombia in August!

Kotor Carnival, Montenegro

Photos by @_grumpy_sailor_

The Kotor Carnival is an annual festival that takes place in the coastal town of Kotor in Montenegro. The festival typically runs for several weeks during February and March and culminates in a grand parade on the last weekend of the carnival. The origins of the Kotor Carnival date back to the 14th century when the town was under Venetian rule. Over the years, the carnival has evolved into a celebration of local culture and tradition, featuring colorful costumes, music, dance, and street performances. One of the highlights of the Kotor Carnival is the grand parade, which takes place on the last weekend of the festival. The parade features elaborate floats, marching bands, and groups of costumed performers who dance and sing their way through the streets of the old town. The carnival is also known for its traditional masked balls, where participants wear ornate masks and costumes and dance the night away to live music. In addition to the parade and masked balls, the Kotor Carnival features a range of other cultural events and activities, including art exhibitions, street performances, and traditional food and drink. Visitors to the carnival can also take part in workshops where they can learn about local crafts and traditions. Whether you’re interested in music, dance, or just soaking up the festive atmosphere, the carnival is a must-see event for anyone visiting the region.

Ljubljana Dragon Festival, Slovenia

Photos by @Visit Ljubljana

The Ljubljana Dragon Festival is a popular event held annually in Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital city. The festival celebrates the city’s legendary dragon, which is believed to have been defeated by the Greek hero Jason in ancient times. During the festival, the city is decorated with dragon-themed art installations, and there are numerous events and activities to enjoy. These include live music performances by local and international artists, dragon-themed art exhibits, and a parade of dragon costumes through the streets of the city. The festival also features a Dragon Market, where visitors can purchase dragon-themed souvenirs and products, as well as a variety of food and drink vendors selling local cuisine and drinks. Overall, the Ljubljana Dragon Festival is a fun and unique cultural event that attracts both locals and tourists alike.

We offer incredible trips to all the destinations mentioned above, contact us at info@untravelledpaths.com for more info!

Written by Lucy Kaufmann

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Best Experiences for Private Groups

Holidays provide us with some of our most memorable moments but as with most things, sharing these with those closest to us makes these moments that little bit extra special. So why not consider organising a trip with those most special to you whether that be friends and/or family as there are plenty of reasons in addition to shared memories to travel as a private group. Private trips offer much better value as every hotel or tour operator will likely give a discount in return for more customers and as the trip is private you’ll have far more flexibility to tailor the trip to your specific needs.

Below we’ve listed the trips we offer that are best suited to groups so next time you’re considering a big celebration, family holiday, or just some time away with friends then maybe you’ll get in touch and we can organise an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.

The Lapland Experience

Lapland is largely located in northern Finland and is primarily in the Arctic Circle. It’s a unique place offering many winter wonderland experiences throughout much of the year from husky sledding, skiing, ice karting, if you are lucky, the Northern Lights and of course, there is even Santa Claus! However, it is undeniably expensive and that is where travelling as a group can provide considerable discounts to make those costs that much more manageable. For group sizes of 6-8 people, you can save as much as 25% through Untravelled Paths so if you’re looking to explore this remote wilderness as a group get in touch! Click here for further information.

The Montenegro Experience

Often referred to as the jewel of the Adriatic and for good reason, Montenegro offers much to its visitors. From the National Parks of the less explored mountainous region to the crystal clear waters of its renowned coastline and all within a couple of hours of each other. It’s these qualities that make this an ideal experience for private groups as you can see so much with relative ease with lots of exciting outdoor activities ideal for friends and families alike. Visit charming Venetian old towns, white water raft the tara river, hike through Durmitor National Park, learn about the process and taste nature’s sweetness at the honey farm, zip line across Europe’s deepest canyon and so much more, these are just some of the memorable experiences on offer to you. Montenegro isn’t part of the EU zone so prices locally are far more affordable and for group sizes of 6 people upwards discounts start from 20% and rising through Untravelled Paths. Click here for further information.

The Ice Hotel Experience

Transylvania in the winter offers an alternative and far more affordable winter wonderland to Scandinavia and although it may not be able to offer Santa Claus it can offer the legend of Dracula. The trip is great fun for children as it’s quite literally a cooler version of camping and certainly a fun adventure for friends! And if you’re up for a private tour we can even tailor the experience to include driving Huskies in the foothills of the Carpathian mountain range or add a few days skiing in Poiana Brasov which is the country’s premier ski resort and ideal for beginners. Book this adventure through Untravelled Paths and small private group discounts start from 20% off. Click here for further information.

The Dolce Vita Puglia Experience

Arguably the safest bet with any private group tour as it has the classic ingredients that everyone loves – namely Italy, delicious fresh food, quaint local towns, and warm climate all making for the famed “Dolce Vita” atmosphere. In addition to this, you’ll have a chance to stay in cave accommodation in Matera’s famed Sassy and a traditional Trullo in the beautiful Itria valley. Outside of peak summer, Puglia offers a very relaxed uncrowded experience and the activities on offer such as cooking classes and pasta making are great for fun for people of all ages. This trip is typically for a maximum of 8 people, although we can do two trips at once and should you book a private group tour through Untravelled Paths then discounts start from 15% off. Click here for further information.

The Brown Bear Experience

A great trip for lovers of nature and the outdoors. Transylvania has the biggest population of Brown Bears in Europe (excluding Russia) so you’ll have a great opportunity to see the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. You will also visit the Libearity Bear Sanctuary which is home to over 100 rescued bears. Add all this to the beautiful old town of Brasov and the rolling hills of the Transylvanian countryside against the backdrop of the impressive mountains and you’ve got a trip epic weekend long weekend away. This great is ideal for friends wanting to catch up as it offers a good amount of free time, it’s also a good introduction to wildlife for children who have shown an interest in what nature has to offer. Untravelled Paths discounts for private groups start at 15% off rising to 20% depending on the size of the group. Click here for further information.

If you are interested in any of these trips or any other group tours then please do get in contact. Alternatively, if your looking for inspiration then have a look at all the trips Untravelled Paths offer that we could run as group tours should you wish.

Written by James Chisnall

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The Best Wildlife Quiz!

Test how much you know about our planet and see whether you have what it takes to be a master of nature.

TAKE THE QUIZ!

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The Most Unusual Delicacies From Around The World

Have you ever heard of a dish made with fertilized duck eggs or fermented shark? Or maybe you’re familiar with these, but have you tried them? From century eggs to fried tarantulas, there are many unusual delicacies from around the world that can make even the most adventurous eater hesitate. Read ahead and explore some of the most unusual delicacies from different corners of the globe!

Balut – Philippines

Balut is a popular snack in the Philippines, made with fertilized duck eggs that have been boiled for around 20-30 minutes. The result is a partially developed embryo that is eaten straight from the shell. The texture is similar to a hard-boiled egg, but the flavors are more intense and the yolk and embryo provide a unique taste and texture. Balut is often seasoned with salt, vinegar, or chili, and is considered a protein-rich snack. Some say it’s a good aphrodisiac. Others would just rather not see what they’re eating; even those who love the taste often don’t linger on the developing duck and vein-lined yolk!

Hákarl – Iceland

Hákarl is a traditional Icelandic dish made with fermented shark meat. The process of making hákarl involves burying the shark meat underground for several months, then hanging it to dry for several more months. The result is a pungent, ammonia-flavoured meat that is often eaten with a shot of Icelandic schnapps to help cut the strong taste. Fermented shark is readily available in Icelandic stores and may be eaten year-round, but is most often served as part of a þorramatur, a selection of traditional Icelandic food served at the midwinter festival þorrablót. Those trying it for the first time are often advised to pinch their nose, as the smell can make you gag!

Century eggs – China

Century eggs, also known as preserved eggs or thousand-year eggs, are a Chinese delicacy made by preserving duck, chicken, or quail eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice straw for several weeks to several months. The process causes the yolk to turn a dark green or black color, while the white becomes gelatinous and translucent. The flavor is described as rich and savory, with a slightly salty taste. It’s commonly eaten with congee, a Chinese rice porridge, along with soy sauce or sesame oil. It may not be understood in western culture, but it’s a very common food in Asia.

Escamoles, Mexico

Escamoles are the edible larvae and pupae of ants that are found in the roots of the agave plant in Mexico. The larvae are harvested before they pupate and due to their delicate, palatable flavor, escamoles are often prepared simply, fried in butter with onion and chili, and then wrapped in corn tortillas and served in tacos. The taste is often compared to cottage cheese or a nutty, buttery flavor. Today, escamol is a trendy item on upscale tasting menus in Mexico City, but the fervor predates the Hispanic era. Before the Spanish landed in present-day Mexico, indigenous people ate escamoles as a source of protein. Aztec emperors dined on the same desert caviar over 800 years ago, and there are ancient tales of feasts with escamoles on the menu to prove it.

Fried tarantulas, Cambodia

People with arachnophobia, look away now! Fried tarantulas are a popular snack in Cambodia and are often sold by street vendors. The spiders are bred in holes in the ground in villages north of Skuon, or foraged for in nearby forestland, before being cleaned and seasoned with a mixture of sugar, salt, and garlic, then deep-fried until crispy. The legs and body are said to be crunchy, while the abdomen is soft and creamy. It is not clear how this practice started, but some have suggested that the population might have started eating spiders out of desperation during the years of the Khmer Rouge rule when food was in short supply.

These are just a few examples of the many unusual delicacies from around the world. While some of these dishes may sound bizarre or even unappetizing to some, they are considered to be traditional or even gourmet cuisine in their respective countries. Whether you’re a daring foodie or just curious, trying out these unusual delicacies can be an adventure in itself.

Written by Lucy Kaufmann

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