Frequently Asked Questions

Not at all! Whether this is your first trip abroad or you’re a seasoned traveler, you’ll feel right at home. Myself and our local guides are here to guide you through everything, so you can relax and enjoy the journey. We take care of the logistics, and our trips are designed for all experience levels—no passport stamp collection required.

Absolutely! In fact, many of our travelers come solo. It’s one of the best parts of group travel—meeting new friends who share your love of adventure! If you prefer, we can pair you with a roommate to share a room (and costs!), or you can request a private room for an additional fee. Either way, you’ll be surrounded by a supportive, friendly group. I actually think that traveling solo on a group trip is the best way to go because you’ll be more likely to branch out and meet people.

Our groups are as diverse as the places we visit! We attract all sorts of travelers – from quiet observers to social butterflies – united by a love for new experiences and cultures. The only real requirements are an open mind and a willingness to try new things (and maybe a tolerance for the occasional cheesy travel joke). By the end of the trip, don't be surprised if you've made some lifelong friends.

Our groups are made up of amazing people just like you! Most are between the ages of 35 and 55, love travel, and are excited to experience new cultures with a supportive, fun group. Whether you’re coming solo or with a friend, you’ll find that everyone is welcoming, and by the end of the trip, it’ll feel like you’ve known each other for years!

Our trips are meant to be enjoyed, not exhausted by! Now, let's get real for a sec. Each trip has its own flavor and pace. Greece? It's your laid-back, sun-soaked dream. Morocco? It's more of a vibrant whirlwind (in the best way possible!). Some adventures, like our Moroccan, Indian, or Georgian escapades, have us on the move, soaking up diverse sights and sounds. Others give you more time to linger and let serendipity work its magic.

Worried about keeping up? Don't be. I've got your back. If we're planning anything that might push your comfort zone a bit (in that exhilarating, growth-spurring way), I'll give you a heads up well in advance. And for my fellow planners out there, you'll find all the nitty-gritty details on each trip's page.

We like to keep things simple for you. Unlike when you plan your own trip, and hidden expenses reveal themselves as the trip carries on—most of our trips include accommodations, many meals, guided activities, and local transportation. You’ll know exactly what’s covered before you book, so there are no surprises. The only extras? Some meals, personal shopping, and optional tips for guides and drivers. Don’t worry—I’ll give you all the details before we go. It’s LITERALLY my job. 

When you join our journeys, you're in for a treat – we've packed them with incredible experiences that are almost ALL inclusive. Think exclusive cooking classes with local chefs, off-the-beaten-path cultural tours, and those "pinch me" moments like sunrise hot air balloon rides or sunset camel treks. These aren't just add-ons; they're the heart of our trips. It's these immersive, unforgettable experiences that really set us apart.

We understand that flexibility is key, so we offer payment plans to make budgeting for your dream trip a little easier. You can secure your spot with a deposit and pay the rest in installments leading up to the trip. We’ll work together to find a plan that fits your budget. If you’re down to save a little money up front, we do offer a pay-in-full discount.

Oh, you brave soul! Solo planning is great if you enjoy late-night Google translate sessions and praying that sketchy hostel isn't a crime scene. But with me, you get the best of both worlds: adventure without the headaches! Even if you travel with friends, someone is doing the planning and heavy lifting–imagine having a true vacation where you just get to show up (spoiler alert–it’s a dream, and you won’t want to go back)!

You'll score:

• A crew of awesome humans (no dining with your phone!)

• Hidden gems Google doesn't know about (like visiting nomads in the Sahara or having a pig roast on a Cuban farm)

• Someone to handle the boring stuff (you're welcome)

• A safety net when things go sideways

• Insta-worthy moments without disappointment (no selfie sticks needed here!)

Plus, you get me – your personal cheerleader, problem-solver, photographer, and trivia master. Can your solo planning do that?

Once you arrive, we’ve got you covered! Local transportation is arranged for all our scheduled activities. Picture yourself being picked up from the airport in a classic car in Cuba. Depending on the trip, airport transfers are generally included, and I’ll make sure you know exactly what to expect. Just sit back and enjoy the ride, literally.

Life's full of surprises, right? Sometimes they're amazing, and sometimes... well, they throw a wrench in our plans. Let's chat about how we handle those curveballs. 

Here's the scoop:

• Basic travel insurance: Required for all trips (it's got your back for those "uh-oh" moments).

• Fancy upgrades available: Trip cancellation coverage + the "change your mind" option (because sometimes life happens).

I've seen firsthand how travel insurance can be a lifesaver. Ask yourself: "Could I handle losing the cost of this trip if something unexpected pops up?" If that makes you break out in a cold sweat, trip cancellation coverage might be your new best friend.

Want to dive deeper into the insurance world? (I know, super exciting stuff ) Check out my travel insurance BFF, Wanderwell. They know their stuff and can hook you up with the perfect coverage.

Remember, we're in this adventure together. I'm here to make sure you're covered, confident, and ready to make some epic memories.

Packing can be a challenge, but I’ll send you a detailed packing list before we go. It’ll cover everything from comfy walking shoes to weather-appropriate clothes and any destination-specific items. As someone who has traveled a LOT, I can assure you I provide the best guidance on what to lug across the world and what can stay behind. Peep my store for early access to recs!

Sorry, no kiddos allowed on this rodeo – they'll have to wait until they can legally rent a car! As for the rest of your crew (furry, leafy, or otherwise), here's the scoop: absence makes the heart grow fonder... and makes coming home feel like winning the lottery.

Taking time for yourself isn't selfish – it's necessary. It's like putting on your own oxygen mask first, except instead of oxygen, it's life-changing experiences and questionable souvenirs.

You're not leaving them behind – you're scouting the world to return as a more interesting, cultured, and slightly sunburned version of yourself. Isn't that the greatest gift? (Besides actual gifts – don't forget those!)

We keep things cozy with groups of 10-14 travelers. It's the sweet spot for making new friends without feeling like you're herding cats. Small groups mean we can duck into that hidden local gem of a restaurant or snag spots at exclusive events. Plus, you'll get plenty of personal attention – think of me as your travel fairy godmother, minus the magic wand (I'm still working on that).

First things first: you'll need a valid passport with at least six months left before expiration. Some trips might require a visa or vaccinations – don't worry, I'll give you the lowdown well in advance. And yes, you really do need to bring your passport (learn from my mistakes – ask me about the time I tried to travel with just my charming smile).

No problem at all! I’ll make sure your dietary needs are accommodated. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have other restrictions, just let me know ahead of time and we’ll work with our local partners to ensure you have delicious, safe options throughout the trip.

Yes, and I highly encourage it if you want to explore more! Whether you’d like to arrive a few days early or stay after the group wraps up, I’m happy to offer additional suggestions on activities in the area. It’s your trip—make the most of it!

I’m always here to help! Feel free to reach out via email at info@lauraericson.com.I love connecting with travelers and am happy to answer any questions you have to make sure you feel confident and excited about your upcoming adventure.