In this episode of Travel Unpacked, co-hosts Josh, Kelsie, and Nicole face off in a travel trivia showdown! Get ready for three action-packed rounds where they test their global knowledge, tackle iconic sounds from around the world, duel over Nordic and Scandinavian facts, and dive into bizarre and quirky travel trivia. It's a fast-paced, fun-filled episode that will challenge your own travel smarts and keep you guessing. Who will come out on top as the ultimate travel trivia champion? Tune in to find out!

Join Travel Unpacked as we dive into the vibrant landscapes of Costa Rica with two of Collette’s writers, Alex and Liz. Fresh from tours, they share firsthand experiences of exploring everything from the Monteverde Cloud Forest and Arenal Volcano to the remote beauty of Tortuguero National Park. Discover the biodiversity, thrilling activities like zip-lining and wildlife encounters, and the hospitality of the locals. We’ll hear about the best places to see sloths and toucans, the joy of tasting the freshest pineapples and juices and get insider tips on what to pack for this destination. Plus, don’t miss our trivia segment and a story about a surprise performance by a famous songwriter! Pura Vida! Ready to start your adventure? Check out our tours: Tropical Costa Rica Costa Rica: World of Nature And want to check out that amazing virtual Taste of Sicily cooking class Kelsie mentioned: https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/4530718/5E0EFAE393F963C8D30B9C0C85C0B530 Interested in destinations beyond Costa Rica? Collette travels to all seven continents and offers more than 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. Check out all we do: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ We’ll see YOU on tour!

Join Travel Unpacked as we go behind our Wilderness of Southern Africa tour. In this special episode, we sit down with Suzanne Stavert, the adventurous spirit behind the travel blog, Adventures of Empty Nesters, who recently embarked on this life-changing safari with Collette. She shares stories of up-close, heart-thumping encounters with the Big 5, unforgettable cultural experiences, and the sweeping landscapes that make Southern Africa a dream destination. We talk everything from packing essentials to the importance of getting outside of our comfort zones. Strap in, grab your binoculars, and be transported on an African adventure! Ready to start your adventure? Check out the Wilderness of Southern Africa: Safari by Land & Water: https://www.gocollette.com/en/tours/africa/egypt/wilderness-of-southern-africa-safari-by-land--water?packagedateid=100759&packageid=15381&utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_205_wilderness_of_southern_africa_dtc Interested in destinations beyond Africa? Collette travels to all seven continents and offers more than 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. Check out all we do: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette And you can follow our amazing guest, Suzanne Stavert at Adventures of Empty Nesters: Website: https://www.adventuresofemptynesters.com/ Podcast: https://www.adventuresofemptynesters.com/podcast/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/suzannestavert/?hl=en FB: https://www.facebook.com/AdventuresofEmptyNesters We’ll see YOU on tour!

In this episode, "Travel Unpacked" is diving deep into the wonders of… THAILAND! And to do it, we’re talking to Collette’s own Senior Partnership Marketing Manager, Kaitlin Coughlin, who’s just returned from a journey to this vibrant nation dubbed “The Land of Smiles” and has amazing stories and insight to share. From an evening adventure aboard one of Bangkok's tuk tuks to the harmony of an elephant sanctuary to the soulful connection formed with their Buddhist monk-turned-tour guide, Kaitlyn tells us what made this trip truly life-changing. We talk enchanting temples, the Thai dishes that are absolutely chef’s kiss, learning to savor the pure decadence of a daily Thai massage, and much more. Tune in for an episode all about the joys of getting out of your comfort zone, trying new things, and learning to appreciate the smallest things in life all over again. Get ready to explore Thailand! Ready to dive into your own adventure in Thailand? Check out our tour Wonders of Thailand: https://www.gocollette.com/en/tours/asia/thailand/wonders-of-thailand?packagedateid=102552&packageid=15547&utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_204_wonders_of_thailand_dtc Collette travels to all seven continents and has over 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. To check out all the tours Collette offers, head to: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette We’ll see YOU on tour!

Get set for a special Women's History Month edition of Travel Unpacked! We're rolling out the red carpet for Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, the first female CEO in Collette's 106-year history, for a conversation that's as insightful as it is inspiring. Join us as Jaclyn and Kelsie talk about Jaclyn’s deep family’s roots in travel at Collette and about the mentors that made all the difference in her journey. Hear about how embracing change and listening to customer needs is at the core of everything Collette does. And then, go behind the scenes to get Jaclyn’s refreshing take on innovation, the importance of giving back, and about fostering a workplace where every voice matters. And on this last point, Kelsie shares one of her favorite stories about Jaclyn that exemplifies the culture of caring she fosters at Collette (hint: it involves an awkward encounter in a bathroom!). Tune in for an episode that’s not just about travel, but about the journey of a woman who's charting the course for the future at Collette and proving every day that when it comes to leadership and innovation, the sky’s the limit. So, grab your metaphorical suitcase and let’s unpack the future of travel with the woman who’s leading it! To check out all the tours Collette offers, head to: https://www.gocollette.com/en?utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_203_jlc_women’s_history_dtc And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette We’ll see YOU on tour!

Join Nicole and Kelsie as they unpack the allure (and the delicious lobster!) of Maine with Cindy Baker, the traveler and photographer behind Travel Bliss Now. Hear how Cindy broke free from the grind to embrace a life of travel and adventure – and how you can, too. Follow Cindy’s journey through Maine’s enchanting towns and wild, rocky shores as she shares the transformative experiences, the joy of connecting with nature, and the simple pleasures that make Maine a haven for those seeking bliss. Whether it's the thrill of lobster fishing or the serenity of Acadia National Park, find out how Maine really should be the “main event” of your next escape. Ready to find your own travel bliss? Tune in! Ready to follow in Cindy’s footsteps on your own Maine adventure? Check out our tour Roaming Coastal Maine: https://www.gocollette.com/en/tours/north-america/usa/roaming-coastal-maine?packagedateid=99798&packageid=15280&utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_202_maine_w_cindy_baker_dtc Collette travels to all seven continents and has over 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. To check out all we do, head to: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette And you can follow our amazing guest, Cindy Baker at the Traveling Bliss Now: Website: https://www.travelblissnow.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/travelblissnow FB: https://www.facebook.com/travelblissnow Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/travelblissnow/ We’ll see YOU on tour!

Travel Unpacked's second season kicks off with a bang as Josh, Kelsie, and Nicole deliver the inside track on the future of travel. In this episode, they unwrap the exciting lineup Collette has in store for its 2024 and 2025 adventures. And they’re joined by Diana Ditto, Collette’s Senior Director of Product Marketing – who spills the beans on the hidden gems and secret spots that these new journeys will explore. Imagine yourself not just driving—but floating—through untamed African landscapes or meandering down the cobblestone alleys of Europe's historical havens — it's all on the horizon. Plus, they delve into those one-of-a-kind cultural immersions that only Collette can offer. So, if you're itching to discover where the road less traveled is heading next, tune in for a chat that will light your travel fire! Want to stay on top of what’s new at Collette? Check out all our exciting new tours: https://www.gocollette.com/en/landing-pages/new-tours?utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_201_new_tours_24/25_dtc Collette travels to all seven continents and has over 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. To check out all we do, head to: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette We’ll see YOU on tour!

Prepare to be inspired – and get into the holiday spirit! In this festive episode of "Travel Unpacked," Nicole, Josh, and Kelsie discuss their favorite holiday traditions. Spoiler alert: someone wakes up to Mariah Carey after Halloween and has FOUR Christmas trees. Then they dive into conversation with the amazing Charlotte Simpson, also known as the Traveling Black Widow. With her infectious enthusiasm for adventure, Charlotte takes us through her travels with Collette—from visiting the quaint villages of Italy with her daughter to exploring the majestic peaks of Europe on a solo quest. And along the way, she offers pearls of wisdom for travelers over 60, celebrates the ease of guided tours, and shares her deep connection to all the cultures she’s connected with around the globe. This episode is an endearing look at how travel ties together our past, present, and future, through shared experiences and individual discovery. So, buckle up and let your wanderlust ignite—Charlotte's story is a reminder that whether we're 6 or 60, the world's wonders are waiting. Ready to see the Peaks of Europe for yourself? Check out our tour Peaks of Europe: The Alps to The Dolomites featuring France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, and Italy: https://www.gocollette.com/en/tours/europe/switzerland/peaks-of-europe?packagedateid=103717&packageid=15487&utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_109_traveling_black_widow_dtc Collette travels to all seven continents and has over 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. To check out all we do, head to: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette And you can follow our amazing guest, Charlotte Simpson at Traveling Black Widow: Website: https://travelingblackwidow.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/travelingblackwidow/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/travelingblackwidow We’ll see YOU on tour!

🎙️🛍️ The thrill of the deal meets the call of the journey! In this special Black Friday episode of Travel Unpacked, we invite listeners to swap their shopping carts for suitcases. Join Josh, our early-bird shopping strategist, and co-hosts Nicole and Kelsie, as they share some fun Black Friday stories—from strategic shopping sprees to quirky trivia that might just change the way you think about this iconic shopping day. But there’s more: this episode also reimages Black Friday as a day less about gadgets and doorbusters, and about the greatest gift of all: experiences that last a lifetime. Discover how Collette's Black Friday travel deals can make that reimagined Black Friday a reality and turn your wish list into an itinerary brimming with experiences that far outshine any deal. So, listen and ditch the checkout lines for departure times this Black Friday! To check out all we do, head to: https://www.gocollette.com/en?utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_108_black_friday_23_dtc And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette We’ll see YOU on tour!

Monuments, museums, and mouthwatering meals! This episode, we’re headed to America’s capital, Washington, D.C. with D.C. local and Collette tour manager extraordinaire, Wesley Glass. We talk The Smithsonians (there are over 15!), hidden food joints locals absolutely love, and some of his favorite spots in the entire city. And brace yourself for our first-ever round of 'Two Truths and a Lie' – Wesley's got some D.C. bombshells – and Josh and Kelsie can’t decide if they’re on the same team or not. Sounds like The Beltway to us! Whether uncovering D.C.'s hidden gems or seeking your next adventure, this episode is your all-access pass to the heart of Washington! Ready to immerse yourself in the history, art and culture of D.C. and beyond? Check out our tour Historical Greenbrier featuring Washington D.C. & Williamsburg: https://www.gocollette.com/en/tours/north-america/usa/historical-greenbrier?packagedateid=103918&packageid=15624&utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_107_washington_dc_dtc Collette travels to all seven continents and has over 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. To check out all we do, head to: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette We’ll see YOU on tour!

Sun-kissed shores, storied pasts, and sumptuous flavors! This episode, which kicks off our “Behind the Tour” mini-series, Nicole and Kelsie explore the Mediterranean jewel, Sicily, with tour designer Shannon Levi. Discover tours crafted for foodies and history enthusiasts, get tips on must-see locations - from an active volcano to ancient temples, and savor the details of mouth-watering Sicilian dishes and immersive experiences, like a hands-on ricotta-making adventure. Plus, discover a centuries-old Sicilian drink that's become a recent global sensation. Prepare your senses—this episode is your gateway to Sicily's soul! Ready for your Sicilian escape? Check all the packages Collette has to offer: https://www.gocollette.com/en/landing-pages/sicily?utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_107b_sicily_dtc Collette travels to all seven continents and has over 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. To check out all we do, head to: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette We’ll see YOU on tour!

Join Kelsey, Nicole, and Josh as they dive deep into the captivating landscapes of Patagonia with Collette's very own product designer, Sam Kern. Discover why this remote region, often thought of as 'the edge of the world,' is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone yearning for adventure. From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the untouched beauty of Patagonia, Sam unveils the magic behind designing once-in-a-lifetime experiences for travelers. Learn about the contrasting allure of vibrant cities and serene, expansive landscapes, the essence of an expedition cruise, and why sometimes disconnecting (even from Wi-Fi) can be the most genuine form of connection. Dive into this episode and let Patagonia, with its glaciers, penguins, and epic views, awaken your wanderlust. Ready to start your adventure? Check out our tour Patagonia: Edge of the World featuring Argentina, Chile, and a 4-Night Patagonia Cruise: https://www.gocollette.com/en/tours/south-america/argentina/patagonia?packagedateid=103593&packageid=15675&utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_106_patagonia_dtc Collette travels to all seven continents and has over 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. To check out all we do, head to: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette We’ll see YOU on tour!

In this episode, Joshua, Nicole, and Kelsie sit down with the president of Collette, Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, to unlock a world of extraordinary destinations. Find out why these places are such compelling bucket list items and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. And learn how stepping out of your comfort zone to explore the wilds of Africa or the unique cultures of places like Finland and Morocco can transform your perspective on life. Ready for your African Safari adventure? Check all the packages Collette has to offer: https://www.gocollette.com/en/landing-pages/african-safari?utm_source=media&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=united_states_travel_unpacked_105_extraordinary_travel_jlc_dtc Collette travels to all seven continents and has over 170 tours. We’ve been leading the way in guided travel for over 100 years. And we’re proudly family owned. To check out all we do, head to: https://www.collette.com And follow us at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoCollette/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gocollette/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gocollette We’ll see YOU on tour!