Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Anything and Everything Philly

We have been written about again – we love this time of year because we get such lovely exposure from so many unexpected sources and it brightens up our day as we finalise our plans and walk itineraries for everyone. If you are thinking of a walking vacation to stretch those legs this year – please do have a read of this article, (it was actually written by William Ecenbarger for The Inquirer – but no need for us to boast).

We’d also like to take this opportunity to answer the Philly.com’s questions for you, right here (but remember you can ask your own questions on our FAQ’s section listed on for walk we offer):
  • How many people do you usually have on a trip? We allow a maximum of 16 people but always aim for 10-12 people as this is an optimum number to make the group enjoyable and enlightening.
  • I'm traveling solo - will I be out of place? "Absolutely not," we welcome solo travelers and have a range of options to suit, walking is one of the best activities for making friends and socialising, all are welcome.
  • Who is leading my trip? This is simply where 25 years in the business comes into play – we have worked with many of our walk leaders for well over 20 years, all have insight, knowledge and a background within the selected destinations they walk. A Wayfarers Walk is an educational yet relaxed voyage of discovery.
  • What kind of support is provided while walking? We tick all the boxes here, a walk leader accompanies you all the way, there is a support van and a walk manager to handle all logistics as well as other activities available, it doesn’t have to all be walking. But you should rest assured that your luggage, meals and rooms are all taken care of. On sunny days you may experience a Wayfarers Picnic.
  • Where will we stay? What will we eat? All our Hotels and Lodges are of the highest standard available often that means 5 star. But hotels and meals are more than just about 5 stars and The Wayfarers put emphasis on local dishes and traditional lodges and try to offer a genuine feel for the country you are in. At least once or more often we invite local people to join us at mealtimes to give local knowledge and background on the places we visit. Obviously we can cater for all appetites and requirements – just ask us and we’ll make the arrangements.
  • How do I get to the starting point? When you book a walking vacation with The Wayfarers we’ll send you a full info pack containing all the details you need to get to the start point (these will also be available on the website). We can book flights for you and let you know times and airline information, we’ll then meet you at the airport or pre designated meeting point and from that point on rest assured everything is taken care of.
  • What exactly is included in the cost? You need to look at our website for an in depth list of what is included, basically everything, you will not need to spend a dime unless you spot that antique in the local market or you are suddenly taken by a local artist. To be honest the only thing we recommend is a small tip for your walk leader and manager – after all they are the one who do all the work.

Please if you would like to find out more about us, our website or any of the walks we provide leave a comment on this blog or contact us directly.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Alaska Trip Q & A


View of Byron Glacier

NOTE: To participate in the Q & A with Julie, click on the comments link at the end of the article.

By Julie Johnson, Walk Leader & Designer

Mom practically had to drag me kicking and screaming onto an airplane to Alaska for my family’s first visit in 1978. She just knew I’d love Alaska….and she was right. What started out as a “pain in the neck trip” eventually led me to discover my lifelong passion for hiking and for Alaska. Over the years, I’ve created a list of favorite hikes ranging from long wilderness treks to easy, contemplative walks. My “hobby” has even resulted in employment, including a contract with the National Park Service where travel on-foot into some of Alaska’s most remote national park ghost towns and trails was required to conduct research.

I am absolutely thrilled to share my love of Alaska with my Wayfarers friends. I’ve designed the week-long walk to appeal to curious travelers who want to feel and see and smell an Alaska that just can’t be experienced from the inside of a tour bus. The hikes are all easy to moderate and combine a variety of landscapes and attractions.

I’ve also combined hikes with some of Alaska’s most fun and adventurous attractions, including a ride on the Alaska Railroad, a boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park, a trip to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and you’ll get to meet the real stars of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race -- Alaskan Huskies! You will definitely need your camera for this trip!

I'll be checking the blog regularly to answer your questions about Alaska. Just click on the comments link below, leave your comments and questions and I'll respond to them. I'm also available to phone you personally to answer your questions. Call The Wayfarers' Newport Office on 1-800-249-4620 and I'll get right back to you!

NOTE: To participate in the Q & A with Julie, click on the comments link at the end of the article.


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Tel: +44 (0)1242 620 871UK

From the lush islands of Britain to the shores of the New World, The Wayfarers continue to create new paths for the walking enthusiasts. The unique Walks that began in 1984 in England now span Europe, the United States and New Zealand with invigorating itineraries, new destinations and distinctive ways of experiencing the special culture of life in the country. New walks include Pentillie Castle, The Dolomites, Sicily: Agrigento, Marsale & the Isle of Mozia.