One of our hardest tasks is picking destinations for new trips, particularly for overseas adventure travel. We get ideas from women on our trips, from guides, and from other companies contacting us. Sometimes its easy; we know there's a high level of interest and we know it's a great destination. Who doesn't want to go to Tuscany? Who can pass up Scotland? It's a no-brainer! You might not like the itinerary we choose but most of our participants who love overseas adventure travel love those destinations.
But it gets difficult when we know the destination is truly exceptional but does not have widespread interest. Or when we know the destination has alot of interest but we don't think it lives up to its hype and women will be disappointed with it. Let me give you examples of both.
In the first category is Bulgaria. Let's face it, you probably don't know anyone who has gone on vacation there nor is it on your list of must-see places. Probably we have been able to fill our trip most years because its an inexpensive destination and the price is enough to get women to stop and at least take a look at the itinerary; and then they realize that its a pretty fascinating country with outstanding scenery, perfect for an outdoor adventure vacation, and that plus the price makes them think about it. But if it were expensive? I doubt we would still be offering it.
In the second category is the Inca Trail. We get requests to offer a trip there but I just don'y think its the right trip. They allow 500 people to start every day, the trail and campsites are crowded, the toilet conditions sub-optimal. I completely understand the allure of literally hiking into Machu Picchu; but is is worth it? So we've found an alternative trek, one that is an old trail of the Incans and a gorgeous Andean trek with a view of Machu Picchu from the trail; but you still take the train up to Machu Picchu itself. On this trail, however, there are 12 people a day and comfortable environmentally sustainable lodges to stay in along the way. 500 vs 12? Hmmm.
