The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken a significant step to protect consumers from hidden fees in the travel and entertainment industries. On December 17, 2024, the FTC announced afinal Junk Fees Rulethat bans hidden junk fees, requiring...

For 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of working as an adventure travel tour operator, a role that has taken me to some of the most awe-inspiring destinations on Earth. From hiking iconic trails and biking scenic backroads to exploring the hidden gems of...

36 Hours in Old Montreal: A Winter Weekend Getaway

My wife and I recently spent a winter weekend in Old Montreal, and it was a perfect mix of history, relaxation, and great food. With its snow-covered cobblestone streets, charming restaurants, and cozy...

Understanding the New European Travel Systems: EES and ETIAS

Updated March 14, 2025

On 5 March, EU Home Affairs Ministers endorsed a revised timeline for the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and...

Why Not Just Book Direct with a Tour Operator? Why Use a Travel Agent? Why Use Privada Travel?

These are great questions—ones we get asked all the time. Here's a simple analogy we like to use, booking travel is a lot like buying a house. Sure, you could...

2025 Travel Trends: Luxe, Transformative, and Tailored to You

The 2025 Virtuoso Luxe Report reveals a clear message: today’s travelers are seeking more than mere getaways. They want transformative journeys that foster deeper connections with loved ones...

New ‘Automatic Airline Refund’ rules are now in effect

The U.S. Department of Transportation has introduced new rules requiring automatic refunds for significantly delayed or canceled flights. Although these changes don’t drastically alter your...

When I get asked “what was your favorite trip” I typically pause as there have been so many. But I can honestly say the Galapagos is at the tip top of the list. The Galapagos Islands, nestled in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Ecuador, represent an...

During my initial journey to Peru, I trekked the Inca Trail, taking the scenic route known as “the Backway,” leading to Machu Picchu. As I approached the Sun Gate, my heart was pounding with anticipation. I had heard so much about the beauty of Machu...

In the exhilarating world of travel, one of the eternal debates remains: When is the best time to book your adventure? Is it the thrill of last-minute spontaneity or the strategic planning of an early bird? Let’s dive into this delightful dilemma and...