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Wave goodbye to mundane life and buckle up for the next 52 days of freedom. Head to the airport, speed through security and unwind in the lounge, because your sabbatical adventure begins with a seven-hour flight to Boston. You’ll land in the early evening, giving you plenty of time to transfer to your hotel, freshen up and get your hands on your first plate of classic Boston grub (clam chowder, anyone?).
The next two days are free for you to explore Boston, the city of redbrick and revolution. Dive headfirst into the city’s humble history with a healthy two-and-a-half-mile walk along Freedom Trail, which winds from Boston Common to Charlestown. As you pass by 16 historically significant sites, you'll soak up centuries of history and even try a pint or two of Boston’s best brews from bars dotted along the route. After a history fix, indulge your sporty side and catch a game at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912.
On your second day in the city, we recommend reliving the Boston Tea Party with a visit to the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. Be part of the event that changed the course of American history as you explore 3D holograms, talking portraits and the Robinson Tea Chest. When evening rolls around, feast on what Boston does best – lobster rolls, clam chowder, Boston baked beans (the jury’s out on whether it beats the British equivalent) and cream pie.
All aboard the Amtrak for a train journey to New York. You’ll hop from city to city in around four hours and be welcomed into your trendy hotel with plenty of time to explore – this is the city that never sleeps, after all. Wander down the bustling streets, grab a bite to eat from a food vendor and admire the Big Apple’s bright lights that’ll envelop you for the next three nights.
One World Observatory, the highest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere, is a must for any visit to New York. On your first full day in the city, you’ll climb to new heights as you hop in an elevator and ascend the 1,254ft to the observation deck in 60 seconds. With knees wobbling and hands clutching cameras, prepare to snap up the unrivalled 360-degree views of the concrete jungle. After spotting all the famous landmarks, head back down to solid ground and spend some time shopping ‘til you drop in the city’s infamous malls.
We hate choosing favourites, but New York’s Museum of Modern Art (aka MoMA) presents possibly the best collection of contemporary art in the world – think the likes of Warhol, Van Gogh, Picasso, Monet and Dali. Impressive, right? During your time in the city, you’ll feast on the creations of these artsy masterminds, from Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’ to Dali’s ‘The Persistence of Memory’. After exploring all the floors and buying a postcard or two from the gift shop, you can visit as many of New York’s infamous sites as you can muster – Central Park, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Centre, the Statue of Liberty... the list goes on.
You’re back onboard the Amtrak this morning for a three-hour train journey to Washington DC. Keep an eye out for sights along the way, such as the Hudson River Valley, Baltimore and finally Washington, the nation’s capital. Head to your hotel and dump your bags before heading out to carpe diem. We recommend checking out Georgetown district (Washington’s oldest neighbourhood), the National Air and Space Museum or the National Zoological Park. Complete the day with dinner at one of our Concierge’s top recommendations before heading to bed, ready for tomorrow’s tour of the Capitol.
The next day, it’s time to discover why Washington is a life-sized history museum on a tour of its best attraction – the Capitol. Located on Capitol Hill, the impressive, white-domed building houses the Senate, the House of Representatives and the Supreme Court. During this visit, you'll discover several sections: the Crypt, a circular room filled with forty neoclassical Doric columns; the Rotunda, a large domed hall located in the centre of the Capitol; and finally, the main exhibition space, known as the National Statuary Hall.
Rise bright and early for today’s flight to Knoxville, the first leg of your journey to Pigeon Forge. After two hours in the air, you’ll land in Knoxville, collect your hire car and begin the quick 45-minute drive to Tennessee’s mountainous Pigeon Forge. For the next three nights, you’ll see camping take on a whole new dimension while sleeping in safari-inspired tents at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains. Comfort isn’t compromised, and you can spend the rest of the day relaxing on your very own terrace while you admire the view.
Considered the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s only right that you kick off your two days in Pigeon Forge with a hike through the national park. With over 800 miles of trails, lace up your boots and ask our clued-up Concierge to recommend the path best suited to your walking wishes. After (hopefully) spotting ample black bears and elk, satisfy hungry stomachs with local specialities like pulled BBQ pork and southern fried chicken.
Visiting Pigeon Forge without spending a day at Dollywood would be nearly criminal. Dedicated to and owned by the one and only Dolly Parton, this 150-acre theme park is home to more than 50 thrilling rides, live entertainment shows and museums. So, don your finest cowboy boots and get ready to ride some rollercoasters.
Today begins with another road trip, so jump in the car and set your satnav for Nashville, a three-hour drive east of Pigeon Forge (wind back your watches, as it’s also an hour behind). As you approach Nashville, make sure to plug into our specially curated country playlist – this is the city where countless artists made their fame, after all. Check into your trendy hotel and head out to explore some bars where you can sip Tennessee whisky and toe-tap to country tunes all night long.
During your busy couple of days exploring Nashville, we can secure evening seats for you at the best venue in town – the Grand Ole Opry. This radio-turned-television country performance is the most famous of the genre, with names such as Dolly Parton and Hank Williams having graced its stage. Get ready for a night of hip-swaying, catchy songs and total immersion into Nashville culture.
Wave goodbye to Tennessee, as today you’re jet-setting across the states to Phoenix, Arizona. After the four-hour flight, pick up the keys to your hire car and set off on the short 30-minute journey to Scottsdale. Here, you’ll check into the mountain-shrouded hotel that’ll be your home for the next two nights.
Scottsdale is a city of many charms. Located at the foot of the double-summit Camelback Mountain, the views alone are enough to entice visitors to stay, but there’s plenty going on in the city itself. Visit the Desert Botanical Garden and wander along trails winding through over 21,000 plants, or take a trip to Rawhide Western Town to travel back in time to an 1880s city. Art lovers can marvel at the works inside countless galleries, while sporting enthusiasts can putt about in one of the gorgeous golf courses.
Hit the road for today’s drive to Sedona. During the two and a half hours, you’ll pass landscapes filled with crowded cactus fields and desert expanses as far as the eye can see. Sedona’s striking red cliffs will signify your arrival, so check into your hotel and head out for an afternoon of hiking or biking, returning for dinner alongside one of Sedona’s fiery sunsets.
The following day is free for you to discover Sedona. Explore the iconic sandstone mountains with a visit to Slide Rock State Park, where streams weave around the rocks to form creeks deep enough to swim in. We recommend you arrive early to grab a parking space (remember to bring plenty of water and suncream). Once you’ve had your fill of red rock adventures, settle down under the starry sky for tonight’s activity – stargazing alongside an astronomer. Learn how to use a telescope to spot the moon, stars, constellations, planets and satellites. You’ll be guided through what you can see in the exceptional night sky; keep your eyes peeled for Mercury, Mars, Jupiter and the Galaxy of Andromeda.
Get ready for another road trip, as today you’re headed to the Grand Canyon. It’ll take around three hours to reach your hotel near the canyon's southern rim, a cosy lodge equipped with enviable views over the National Park. Grab a bite to eat at the southwestern-inspired restaurant before falling asleep beneath the star-studded sky.
The next day, take to the skies for a memorable helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. The 45-minute flight will see you soaring over sites like the Painted Desert and the Colorado River, as well as huge canyons, gorges and precipices. The aircraft has panoramic windows for 180-degree visibility, comfortable raised seating and a low noise level. What more could you want?
Cry out ‘Viva Las Vegas’ as you begin today’s long (but worthwhile) drive to Sin City. Leave mountains and forests behind as you journey four-and-a-half hours to reach the barren Nevada desert, where Vegas’ bright lights seem to rise from nowhere. You’ll stay in the heart of the action on the Las Vegas Strip, so prepare for an evening of Vegas extravaganzas as you explore the hotel’s casino and artificial exploding volcano.
Synonymous with hedonism, Las Vegas has more than enough to do for a couple of days of fun. Whether you marvel at a show inside the sci-fi-looking Sphere, walk along the knee-wobbling heights of the Hoover Dam, snap a photo beneath the infamous sign or pretend you’re in Italy at the Venetian resort, one thing’s for sure: you won’t experience anywhere else like it.
On your second evening here, you’re in for a treat – tickets to Cirque du Soleil, not just the best show in town but possibly the whole of the USA. ‘Love’, a show based on The Beatles, honours their musical legacy. The spirit of the band is brought to life through the creative energy of 60 artists from around the globe, showcasing aerial performances and contemporary dance. Utilising the master tapes from Abbey Road Studios, this is a uniquely immersive sound experience that feels like you're hearing The Beatles' music for the first time.
Return to the road for today’s three-hour drive to Springdale, a small town in the southern reaches of Utah. Nestled next to Zion National Park, it’s often used to host travellers wishing to explore the towering red, white and pink-striped cliffs. So, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the town and its awe-inspiring views.
Springdale may be small, but it sure is mighty. Most people spend a day here with a visit to Zion National Park – it’s the third most popular park in the USA, and attracted five million visitors in 2023. Explore the rocky red expanse and its network of canyons through rock climbing, hiking, canyoneering or simply taking a scenic drive. Or stick to the town and admire the artwork inspired by the cliffs in one of the many art galleries. You can even go tubing down the Virgin River to cool off when temperatures soar, a two-mile ride that makes for a relaxing afternoon.
Today, you’ll head north of Utah with a five-hour drive to Salt Lake City, the state’s capital. You’ve only got one night here, so set off early to ensure you can explore the city and its surroundings, whether that be the eponymous lake or the Bonneville Salt Flats. Or settle into your hotel and rest before another road trip tomorrow.
Another five-hour drive awaits you this morning, this time to Jackson Hole, a year-round destination renowned for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Grand Teton to the west and the Gros Ventre range to the east, your lodge for the next three nights is in the heart of the action. Spend the evenings listening to country music spilling from bars or eating plate after plate of regional specialties like trout, elk and bison.
On your first full day here, experience Grand Teton National Park’s unique conditions and learn how the creatures coexist and adapt to their environment on a wildlife safari. Few places offer such breathtaking views and natural wonders as those in this 310,000-acre masterpiece. Set among the craggy peaks, crystal-clear alpine lakes and green coniferous forests of Wyoming, its landscapes are as varied as they are stunning. You'll observe the abundant wildlife, including (deep breath) elk, bison, antelope, mule deer, wolves, black bears, grizzly bears, bald eagles and trumpeter swans.
The next day, have fun, enjoy the fresh air and get your blood pumping during an exhilarating rafting activity along Snake River. Experience adrenaline-inducing class three rapids onboard a raft with up to 15 other thrill seekers. After tackling rapids like Lunch Counter and Big Kahuna, the bravest of the group can jump into the cold – but refreshing – water. Afterwards, head back to your cosy lodge to warm up and admire the views of your last night in Jackson Hole.
Ever wanted to visit an active volcano? Today, you’ll be visiting one of the world’s largest. Yellowstone is America’s oldest national park and, arguably, the most impressive. Located a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Jackson Hole, it sits on the borders of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho and is characterised by hot springs, gushing geysers and dramatic mountains. You’ll be staying in the first hotel built in Yellowstone, so check in and head straight out to explore the expansive scenery.
It’s just a short drive from Yellowstone to Gardiner today, a tiny town with the Yellowstone River running through it. It’s also the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, with its north gate just five miles down the road. Pull up to your log-clad lodge and spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the town’s western-style wide main street lined with shops.
The renowned Lamar Valley near Yellowstone National Park’s northern entrance offers an ideal setting for spotting wildlife such as wolves, bears, bison herds, antelopes and various birds. So make use of prime wildlife time and head out with a guide first thing the next morning to spot these curious creatures and learn about the reintroduction of wolves into their natural habitat. Afterwards, return to your lodge and enjoy your final night in mountainous Montana.
It’s goodbye mountains and hello coast during your journey to San Francisco, home to the Golden Gate Bridge. You’ll begin with an hour-and-a-half drive to Bozeman, before dropping off your hire car and boarding your two-and-a-half-hour flight to sunny California. Transfer to your downtown hotel, freshen up and head out for dinner. Stuck on where to go? Ask our local Concierge to recommend one of San Francisco’s best restaurants – trust us, there are a lot of them.
The next day it’s time to explore Alcatraz, a place of mystery and history. This legendary maximum-security island prison received its first inmates in the 1850s, incarcerated some of the most hardened criminals over the next 30 years and was the setting of Clint Eastwood’s iconic Escape from Alcatraz. Those who ever dared to escape either drowned, died of cold or were eaten by sharks (thankfully, you can just get the ferry there and back).
Spend your final day in San Fransisco exploring the city’s hilly streets because this evening, you’ll embark on a sunset cruise across the San Francisco Bay in a luxurious catamaran. Marvel at the stunning views of the city from a fresh perspective, taking in iconic landmarks such as the majestic Golden Gate Bridge and the historic island of Alcatraz. Savour a glass of fine Californian wine as the sun sets, raising a toast to your last night in San Francisco.
It’s time to reclaim the driver’s seat as you collect your hire car and begin the two-hour drive to Monterey. Nestled on California’s rugged coast, it’s a hotspot for ocean lovers and is even home to the tide pools that captivated John Steinbeck. Use the rest of today to explore the city and seek out some comforting clam chowder served in a bread bowl, a must-have in Monterey.
Known as the 'Serengeti of the Sea', The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is the largest and most abundant national marine reserve in the USA. Home to busy shores of countless sea otters, seals and swooping birds of prey, as well as marine life that brims with myriad fish, turtles and playful mammals, it's the perfect spot to whale watch. You’ll (hopefully) spot them on a boat trip as they migrate north up the coast – prepare to be sprayed with the salty sea as they come up for air and maybe even treat you to their favourite water-aerobic party tricks.
Continue your road trip down California's west coast with a four-hour drive to Santa Barbara. As you travel along the Pacific coastline, you'll encounter the picturesque ‘17-Mile Drive’ and cross the iconic Bixby Bridge, nestled at the base of oceanic cliffs. Continue along the winding road to Morro Bay before heading inland to the vineyards and eventually arriving at Santa Barbara's palm-lined beaches, where your beach-side hotel awaits.
Sandy beaches, perfect waves and fiery sunsets make Santa Barbara a laid-back paradise. It’s also an eclectic mix of just about everything; history buffs will marvel over Old Santa Barbara Mission; foodies will rejoice at the fantastic restaurants; wine-lovers can indulge in the rolling vineyards; hikers can explore the Cold Spring trail; and surfers can hit Rincon Beach. In short, it’s a world-class destination that doesn’t disappoint.
As the city of dreams, entertainment, sunshine and beaches, Los Angeles is a force to be reckoned with. It’s a speedy hour-and-a-half drive from Santa Barbara, so hop in the car and cruise down the coast. The city can be difficult to decode, but to those in the know, LA is best interpreted as a collection of satisfyingly small towns, each with a distinct character. Getting to know LA as a visitor means exploring it bit by bit, neighbourhood by neighbourhood. So on your first day here, make sure you have a beach-side lunch in Santa Monica, shop in Beverly Hills, visit the Getty Center or stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
You can’t visit LA without stepping into the world of film with a tour of Universal Studios. The original studios date from 1915, and although still regularly used for cinema or TV, they’ve become a famous amusement park. On foot or by a small train, you'll tour the sets of well-known films and ride the thrilling roller coasters. See behind-the-scenes of blockbusters such as Back to the Future, The War of the World, Jaws, Terminator, King Kong and Jurassic Park, to name just a few.
Next to tick off the must-do list is to explore one of the busiest working studios in Los Angeles and peek behind the scenes of the brand that has been entertaining the world for almost 100 years – Warner Brothers. Highlights include the Friends fountain and Central Perk sets, the Big Bang Theory sets, DC Superheroes and Supervillains, Harry Potter and various backgrounds featured in shows like Pretty Little Liars. Keep your eyes peeled - you may even see famous faces at work.
Wave goodbye to mainland USA, because next you’re off to the heavenly Hawaii. You’ll board a six-hour flight across the Pacific from LA, landing on Big Island in the early evening. Collect your hire car and begin the short drive from Kona Airport to your resort on the majestic Kohala Coast. Spend your first evening unwinding at one of the restaurants or bars before heading to bed and dreaming of the next three days of Kohala paradise.
Your stay on the Kohala Coast offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural exploration. Start with a visit to Hapuna Beach for sunbathing and swimming, followed by a trip to the historic Pu'ukohola Heiau temple, and end the day with a sunset dinner at your coastal resort. Or spend a day snorkelling at Kauna‘oa Bay to see vibrant coral reefs, then drive to Waimea for a taste of the local paniolo culture and finish by stargazing at Mauna Kea. You can even hike through the stunning Pololu Valley and unwind with a traditional Hawaiian spa treatment in the evening
Hop to the second of Hawaii’s islands today with a quick flight to Kahului. Then, drive to Kaanapali, where you’ll spend the next three nights. Another plush beach resort is waiting to say aloha, so settle onto a sun lounger, cocktail in hand, and enjoy the last of the afternoon sun.
Kick off your first day in Kaanapali with a sunrise stroll along the Kaanapali Beachwalk, then enjoy breakfast with an ocean view at one of the beachfront cafes. Spend the day snorkelling at Black Rock, marvelling at the vibrant marine life or relaxing by your resort’s pool and indulging in a spa treatment. On the second day, you could sail on a catamaran to spot dolphins before exploring Whalers Village for a spot of shopping. In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic drive along the Honoapiilani Highway for breathtaking coastline views.
Make your way to the airport, drop off your hire car and board the half-hour flight to Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital on the island of Oahu. After landing, head to your home for the next two nights, a beach hotel perched on the shores of Waikiki Beach. You’ll have plenty of time to explore Honolulu or stick to the beach and spread out with a good book (that you probably haven’t touched until now).
The following day, discover the awe-inspiring aerial landscapes of Oahu during an exhilarating flight on board a helicopter. Enjoy beautiful views from the sky as you soar over rainforests, lush valleys, coral reefs and turquoise waters. See the Diamond Head volcano, Hanauma Bay, Waimanalo Beach, Chinaman's Hat and coral formations in Kaneohe Bay. We can’t imagine a better way to take in the breathtaking views of Oahu all at once.
Somehow, the final (non-travel) day of your sabbatical has rolled around – and there’s not a moment to waste. Luckily for you, Honolulu has it all. Get your blood pumping by hiking up Diamond Head in the morning (to avoid the midday heat) and soak in the panoramic city views. For R&R without the crowds, swim in the saltwater Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Lagoon inside the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Get a taste of Hawaiian culture at Iolani Palace, a historic remnant of the state’s monarchy and the only official royal residence in the United States. After a busy day exploring, head back to your hotel for a beach-side dinner while raising a toast to your final sabbatical sunset
Your journey home begins today with a six-hour flight back to Los Angeles. After landing, you’ll hop off one plane and onto another as you start the overnight flight back to home turf.
After an adventure of a lifetime, you’ll return to the UK the following day, after a whopping 53 days away. With a camera full of photos and a mind full of memories, this isn’t something you’ll forget any time soon.
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
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We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
