Inspiring: Bruce Poon Tip (right), a pioneer of community tourism, is the founder of the award-winning travel company G Adventures. Photos: Supplied.
When getaways exceed expectations on pretty much all fronts, we can truly say it was an enriching holiday.
A bonus is being part of a small group of people who are nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, and love experiential travel, local flavours and a boundless community spirit. It’s a pleasurable journey through local life where food, culture and individuals come together to create an extraordinary tour encounter.
There was a purpose behind seeking out National Geographic journeys with G Adventures, and there are 16 remarkable new trips. The credit goes to Bruce Poon Tip, the Canadian entrepreneur and author, who is best known as the founder of G Adventures. After meeting him some years back, I was impressed with Bruce’s commitment, dedication and the purpose he espoused.
Bruce is a pioneer of community tourism, and is recognised for his innovative approach to travel and commitment to sustainable tourism. G Adventures is an award-winning travel company offering small-group tours. One of its goals is “giving the best customer service and changing people’s lives”.
In his business memoir titled Looptail: How One Company Changed the World by Reinventing Business, Bruce details his journey from a rebellious misfit to building the world’s largest adventure travel company.
“How can we ever understand what we are and where we belong in the universe if we haven’t experienced anything outside of our own nation, culture, or history?” Bruce makes his mark. “… Once something is pointed out to you, you can either choose to not engage or get involved.”
The New York Times bestseller explores his unconventional management practices and philosophy of “good karma”, emphasising how a focus on community, culture and social responsibility can lead to profit and success in the business world.
Striking: Take in South Korea’s rich heritage from every angle.
Passionate about the power of travel to change the world for the better, Bruce has become a global leader and philanthropist in immersive travel and innovation. He has reshaped the industry, with insights that are invaluable for understanding modern travel.
His myriad successes include founding the non-profit foundation Planeterra in 2003; his first book, Looptail; and another of his books, Do Big Small Things, which is a journal about life and travel.
G Adventures goes beyond the typical. Bruce’s idea has bridged the gap between backpacking and mainstream travel while connecting travellers with local people. Such an idea was revolutionary back in 1990.
National Geographic journeys with G Adventures offer unique, guided excursions, and family travel experiences focused on deeper cultural and habitat immersion through meaningful encounters with local people and hands-on exploration. Local expert interactions allow for personalised, flexible travel within a structured and secure environment.
They are created for curious, experience-driven holidaymakers seeking deep, meaningful connections. You’ll discover iconic destinations, immerse yourself in rich cultures, and gain access to unique National Geographic involvements — all while forging deeper connections with the local communities that bring each place to life.
Paths this year wind into new and extraordinary terrain. Step into Greece for an enriching adventure across the mainland’s many storied monasteries, irresistible culinary scene and layers of ancient history. Wander the sacred heights of Meteora, explore the legendary Acropolis and experience the thrill of a truffle hunt led by a local expert.
Commitment: G Adventures and National Geographic believe that travel can, and should be, a force for good in the world.
Trace the legendary Silk Road through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Explore South Korea from futuristic Seoul to ancient hanok villages and Juju Island’s volcanic wonders.
Fly to Jeju Island for a deeper look into Korea’s natural wonders and cultural resilience. Meet the legendary haenyeo — elder women who free dive for seafood using techniques passed down through generations — and savour the ocean’s bounty they bring to shore. Along the way, roll up your sleeves for a kimchi-making experience, wander a UNESCO folk village and take in South Korea’s rich heritage from every angle.
Venture to Egypt with your little explorers to uncover ancient tombs, stand together in the shadow of majestic pyramids and cruise the storied waters of the Nile. Discover Portugal side-by-side through hands-on experiences — trace history in Lisbon’s vibrant streets, wander Sintra’s romantic hilltop castles and cycle along the sunlit coast, with smiles beaming bright.
If you dream of exploring the world with your children, you can do so with the assistance of two new family journeys. Built for venture-seeking households (with young ones aged over seven years), these trips bring multiple generations together to share in the wonder of the world.
Imagine the unexpected and anticipate the extraordinary … so you will experience a sensational escape!
