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There’s no escape quite like an escape to the sea. There’s just something about being on the water that draws us in, relaxes us, and reminds us how lucky we are to be able to explore this beautiful planet. Naturally, we had to design a trip around the sea. And naturally, as we’re nuts about traveling, “a trip” turned into many trips. So, whether you need some beachside R&R in tropical paradise or an epic catamaran adventure through Mediterranean islands, check out our exhaustive list of aquatic adventures. The Americas BELIZE Soothe the soul and jet down to the bluest seas we've ever seen. Our Belize trip has exploded in popularity, and for good reason. It's so beautiful that we couldn't blame you for ripping up that return ticket home. Spend five days sipping on Caribbean concoctions as you dig your feet into the sand and the tide laps at your toes. Then hop on a private catamaran, cruise out with our amazing group, dive in and explore an exotic world of corals, turtles, and tropical fish that will have you longing for your own set of gills. Check out our Belize itinerary → Costa Rica If you're in the mood for some biodiverse adventure, take a look at our Costa Rican escape. We'll all meet up in this lush Central American paradise for five days of fun. From the jungles to the beaches, we'll never be far from the Pacific. Think zip-lining through rainforests, surfing hidden coves, and kicking back with new friends from the shores of untouched paradise. Check out our Costa Rica itinerary → Colombia On our romp through Colombia, you'll fall in love with a country that's recently emerged as one of the go-to destinations in all of the Americas. Kick things off in the wonderfully preserved Old Town of Cartagena, where 16th-century defensive stone walls meet the sea, and the Caribbean sun lingers over cobbled streets. From there, you'll cruise out in style to the coral-fringed Islas Del Rosario for some beachside lounging. Check out our Colombia itinerary → Europe Portugal From the historic shores of Lisbon down to the balmy bliss of the Algarve, this trip blends all aspects of a great European adventure. So if you're in the mood for exploring charming alleyways perched above scenic bays or soaking up the sun beneath golden limestone cliffs, this is the one for you. And don't you worry, we won't quit at Mediterranean beaches or seaside grottos; to wrap things up, we'll kick it up a notch, grab our day bags, and head out to sea aboard our very own private yacht. Check out our Portugal itinerary → Croatia Over the past five years, Croatia has burst onto the international travel scene. With fascinating historic cities, picturesque islands, and stone walls hanging high above the sunbaked Adriatic, well, yeah, we get it. If you're in the mood for one unforgettable European excursion with a group of curious individuals, dive right into Croatia. We'll kayak the Med, roam Dubrovnik's city walls, and party through the night island style. Check out our Croatia itinerary → Greece Perhaps it's the preposterously perfect climate. Maybe it's the romantic blue-roofed, whitewashed villages by the sea. It might just be that toasty Mediterranean. We're not sure exactly the reason, but Greece keeps us coming back time and again. It's the quintessential Mediterranean escape and one that we highly recommend everyone indulges in at least once. So set sail for adventure, dance the night away in Santorini, and float through the emerald waters of Milos. Check out our Greece itinerary → Amalfi Coast & Puglia Picture yourself sipping limoncello beneath a backdrop of towering dark green peaks as tiny white sails drift off into the summer haze. Not bad, eh? When it comes to hitting the sea, Amalfi may just be our most famous destination. Of course, that's not really enough for us, so we built this trip through Puglia and Capri as well. Backed by brilliant white limestone cliffs falling straight down to the Adriatic Sea, Puglia is one of Southern Italy's best-kept secrets. Capri, on the other hand, is classic Mediterranean island beauty—too remarkable to be ignored. Put it all together, and you've got one spectacular Italian getaway. Check out our Amalfi Coast & Puglia itinerary → Barcelona & the South of France Kick back and enjoy life along the southern coasts of Spain and France. We'll soak up the French Riviera in style as we unwind on daybeds and drink rosé along the bay of Juan Les Pins. In Barcelona, we'll party late along one of Europe's most iconic beaches and then head out to sea to sail across those intoxicatingly blue waters. Check out our Barcelona & South of France itinerary → Africa South Africa Home to arguably the most extraordinary flora and fauna anywhere, South Africa is for those who love the great outdoors. We'll traverse the mind-blowing national parks on a quest to find the region's big five before we head south and take in the beautiful seaside city of Cape Town. You'll wind along the peninsula's coastline, between towering cliffs and boulders, hike up Lion's Head for panoramic views of it all, and explore the region's most gorgeous beaches, where you’ll have the chance to surf, swim, and soak up the sun in one spectacular location. Check out our South Africa itinerary → Asia Vietnam We could give you a million reasons to visit Vietnam; it really is that special. But…two of the absolute best are the little UNESCO Heritage Sites in Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. You've probably seen pictures. You probably thought they were fake. They're that jaw-dropping. We'll see a lot of this spectacular country on our nine-day excursion, but again and again, these natural beauties seem to take the cake. In Ninh Binh, we’ll row between sublime limestone mountains jutting from tranquil riverside rice paddies. In Halong Bay, we’ll do one better and spend two days cruising between towering islands so extraordinary they’d make James Cameron jealous. Check out our Vietnam itinerary →

Travel is back, and we couldn't be happier. In fact, we're so excited that we've gone on a new trip rollout extravaganza. We've been launching more excursions and expeditions than ever before so that you can meet more amazing travelers, have more incredible experiences, and live it up in more of the world's greatest places. Read on to check out FTLO's new travel destinations around the world. The Bali, Gilis & Lombok Trip Trip Vibe: Wellness, Cultural, Adventure, Beach This thrilling ten-day adventure across Indonesia is curated for lovers of culture, history, and, above all else, the great outdoors. You'll immerse yourself in Balinese life, snorkel the Gilis, and sip fruity concoctions along ribbons of secluded white sand beaches in Lombok. Along the way, we'll discover the spirit of the nation in local villages and fall in love with traditions passed down through generations. So come along to tame rugged volcanoes, trek through Hindi temples reclaimed from jungle vines, and make new friends beneath fiery Southeast Asian sunsets. This is one all-encompassing adventure; a tropical whirlwind of fascinating arts, rich culture, and incredible biodiversity—an eye-opening window into Indonesia. Check out the Bali itinerary → The Basque Country Trip Trip Vibe: Foodies, Cultural, Wine If food, fun, and the sun sounds appealing, pack your bags and get ready for one mouth-wateringly delicious adventure. We could tell you the eats are pretty good here, or we could back that up with hard data. How's the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita in the entire world sound? Yeah, it's that good. You'll start out in Bilbao for your first taste of unforgettable pintxos, and then you'll crisscross an area encompassing parts of Northern Spain and Southwestern France, defined by an exotic language, ancient folklore, and year-round festivals. We'll wind through historic Vitoria-Gasteiz before ending up on the golden sand beaches of San Sebastian. By the end of the week, you'll be well versed in the region's culture, history, and world-famous cuisine and you'll understand why this is one of our favorite new travel destinations. Check out the Basque Country itinerary → The Belize Trip Trip Vibe: Quick Getaway, Party, First Time Travelers Welcome to vacationland. The islands off Belize are known the world over for their brilliant white sand beaches and preposterously turquoise seas. So grab your hat, bring the sunscreen, and jet on down for five unforgettable days of easy living and smooth sailing. You’ll bask in the sun as you cruise across paradise, snorkel with playful nurse sharks and lazy sea turtles, and ride relaxing, sandy paths through the deliciously smoky aroma of skewered shrimp sizzling on charcoal grills. Check out thre Belize itinerary → The Havana Trip Trip Vibe: Quick Getaway, Cultural, First Time Travelers If you're in need of a quick getaway and some tropical beauty, cruise on down to Cuba. On this blast to the past, we'll dive deep into Havana, the nation's cultural mecca​. You'll discover the ins and outs of a city frozen in time with eye-popping architecture around every colorful corner. To make sure you get the most out of our trip, you'll step right into the action as you wind your way through Old Havana, cruise the coast in classic cars, and learn to dance the salsa with the best of the best. ​So, if you've got a few days off, head south to enjoy the land of salsa, cigars, and enough rum to help even the most musically challenged belt out "Havana, ooh na-na." We promise it'll be an eye-opening experience and one hell of a good time. Check out the Havana itinerary → The Iceland Trip Trip Vibe: Adventure, Cultural, Bucket List This is one wild, outdoorsy adventure across some of the most incredible terrain in the western hemisphere. You’ll hike to mammoth waterfalls, over snow-covered lava fields, and into absurdly beautiful glacial ice caves. You’ll also check out Reykjavik—a city of colorful homes, street art, and oddly endearing hardcore metal shows. So come along and slug down some Brennivin beneath the northern lights, find your footing in the mist of cascading falls, and reach out to blue ceilings of frozen rolling waves in glacial ice caves. Check out the Iceland itinerary → The Ireland and Scotland Trip Trip Vibe: Cultural, First Time Travelers, Party Join us for an epic excursion that will take you from historic capitals to rolling hills and tiny towns of Ireland and Scotland. It’s an action-packed trip for fans of rich culture, ancient castles, cozy pubs, welcoming locals, and rural beauty. We’ll kick things off with new friends the right way—over pints at one of Dublin’s iconic watering holes. From there, it’s a week of excitement as you zigzag a region brimming with culture and character. We’ll pub crawl through thousand-year streets, dabble in a national sport, and trek out into Martian landscapes. Then, you’ll head east and explore Scotland’s greatest cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow, and dive into the region’s unique culture. Think timeless architecture, a haunted underground city, bagpipes, haggis, and more. With a short flight and warm, chatty locals, our Ireland and Scotland trip is traveling easy. Check out the Ireland and Scotland itinerary → The Portugal Trip Trip Vibe: Cultural, Adventure, Foodie Portugal has become one of the hottest spots on the Med, and our weeklong adventure will give you a glimpse into all the reasons why. We'll start out in the charming capital of Lisbon, where you'll have the chance to experience one of the city's oldest neighborhoods like a local as you stroll through meandering alleyways. You’ll spend your days with new friends marveling at extraordinary architecture, eating and drinking your way through the streets, exploring the colorful palaces of Sintra, and paddling through seaside caverns and grottos of the Algarve. Check out the Portugal itinerary → The Turkey Trip Trip Vibe: Cultural, Adventure, Foodie This all-encompassing adventure crosses continental boundaries and gives travelers a glimpse into vastly different cultures. We’ll explore the sprawling city of Istanbul and zigzag from wide European boulevards to narrow Asian alleyways. From the historic mosques and spice markets to the magnificent ancient stone labyrinths chiseled into Cappadocia, the region is as diverse as it is beautiful. You’ll wind through spectacular underground cities carved into volcanic stone and meander among captivating hillside wineries. To close it all out, we’ll relax with drinks in hand aboard a private boat in Bodrum and take in the sights of some of the Mediterranean’s most welcoming waters. Check out the Turkey itinerary →

To the delight of travelers everywhere, the global tourism and hospitality industry has seen a much-needed rebound this past year. Countries closed to the world during the Covid pandemic have begun welcoming foreigners back in mass, and a travel obsessed (and deprived) populace has taken full advantage. However, as has been the case with just about everything that’s come along with the pandemic, the relaunch of travel has brought with it a fair share of challenges. Most notably at the moment is the high cost of flights. As frequent flyers and believers in seeing as much of the world as often as possible, we’re here to help. Here are our tips and tricks to finding cheap flights abroad. Be Flexible With Your Dates If you’re heading off with FTLO, you don’t need to arrive the day your trip begins. When searching for cheap flights abroad, consider looking one to two days out. Generally, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday are the cheapest days to fly (however, that’s not always the case), so if you can arrive early, check out those days as well. In many countries we visit, a night or two in a hostel or hotel will be far cheaper than the difference in flights. **As we’ve also seen a significant uptick in flights delayed recently, booking an earlier flight can also provide some peace of mind if you do experience a delay.** Use Multiple OTAs or Aggregators There are multiple ways to purchase flights online, and it’s crucial to search across as many of these as possible to find cheap flights abroad. OTAs or online travel agencies are essentially middlemen between airlines and customers. Aggregators are comparison sites that show flights from multiple different OTAs. Unfortunately, there isn’t any evidence that either an aggregator or an OTA is always cheaper than the other, so it’s essential to take your time and compare across multiple channels to find your flight. Some of our favorites are Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kiwi. Keep in mind that an aggregator often will direct you back to the OTA to make a purchase. We should also note that there’s been an uptick in flight cancellations recently, and going through an OTA or aggregator can create hiccups when it comes to refunds or changes. So it can actually be better to find your flights on these channels and then buy that flight direct from the airline. Fly Into Large Hubs When you're searching for cheap flights abroad, always try to fly into the largest city near your destination. When you’ve figured that out, then grab a domestic flight, train, or bus to your end destination. More often than not, this will be much cheaper than trying to find flights to your final destination off the bat. For instance: If you’re headed to Mykonos, find the best flight to Athens. Then book your domestic flight to the islands. Domestic flights, particularly in Europe, can be extremely cheap. Set up Flight Alerts Flights do not stay the same price. In fact, they can change drastically from one day to the next. Of course, monitoring that yourself can be an incredible hassle and cause you even more headaches than you started with. Thankfully, we’ve got flight alerts. Most sites, including OTAs and aggregators, have flight alerts, and they’re all relatively easy to use. Set up your information, set your alert so you’re pinged when prices drop, and you’re all good. If Flying in the US, Check Southwest We discussed those fancy aggregators and OTAs earlier and their ability to draw from thousands upon thousands of flights. Well, in the United States, there’s one little caveat. The largest of all the airlines won’t show up. Southwest doesn’t allow its flights to appear on third-party apps, so you need to go directly to its site. In the US, this is important, as Southwest often has some of the cheapest and best flights available. Don’t Lose Out on Hidden Fees You found that perfect flight that gets in at the perfect time at a bargain-basement price. Then, you get to the “Buy” screen, and boom, $200 in extra fees. It’s a tale as old as time—hidden fees when booking flights. It can seem impossible to tell if the site you’re using is tacking on fees, so it’s essential to be extra careful and diligent when doing your search. Make sure the price includes checked bags, taxes, and anything else upfront, so you don’t get an unwelcome surprise in the end. Check out Scott's Cheap Flights On our never ending quest to find the newest, best, cheap flight tool we'd be remiss if we didn't mention Scott's. This one's a bit different as it's a subscription-based paid model; however, the results speak for themselves. Here's how it works: sign up for the service, add your airports you're searching for deals from, wait for the team at Scott's to scour new deals and send them directly to your inbox, book and be happy. Scott's cost $49 a year, yet most users make that up on their first flight. It's vital for travelers to jump on the deals they're sent quickly as most of these don't last long. What Are Your Tricks? We’re always on the lookout for helpful tips when it comes to finding the cheapest flights abroad, and we know travelers like you know them best. So if you’ve got that flight hack that you just can’t live without, leave us a comment below. Who knows; we might even drop those in an Insta poll and give some FTLO swag to the best new trick out there.

The busy summer season is upon us, and we're ecstatic that travel has made a triumphant return. As we kick off more trips to more locations around the world, we wanted to give our travelers, past, present, and future, an update on the state of the industry so you can be as prepared as possible. Our travel ethos has always been one of respect, compassion, and fun, and today these pillars are more important than ever. Everyone has gone through a very strange two years, and we're all figuring out how to get back to enjoying life together amid ongoing geopolitical tension and economic uncertainty. It's a lot! (and all the more reason you probably need a vacation). Travel is always fraught with surprises (both good and bad), and we're used to navigating the unexpected — but this year, some overarching trends may impact your travel experience. Over the course of the pandemic, millions of valuable employees in hospitality were forced to find new careers. While demand for travel has come back like a tidal wave, many former employees have not returned, leading to staffing shortages across the globe and delays in everything from food service to transportation. (This includes our team as well. We're doing our best to navigate supplier issues and keep up with demand (p.s. we're hiring), but please be patient with us as we get up to speed.) While the issues affecting the industry are constantly evolving, there are a few that you should be aware of so that you can plan ahead: FLIGHTS The airline industry has been especially hard hit and is struggling to regain its footing. As a result, there are more airport lines, flight delays, and cancellations than ever before. If you're traveling with FTLO, we highly recommend flying in the day before your trip begins so you're not impacted by potential delays. HOSPITALITY Bars, restaurants, hotels, shops, and transportation companies that survived the pandemic are struggling to keep up with the surge of new demand. Skeleton crews and short-staffed businesses are doing their best; however, wait times have gone up, and it's not uncommon to encounter frustrated employees. We ask that you give them your compassion and patience. But if there are serious issues, please let your trip leader know. COVID-19 COVERAGE Although the Covid situation is no longer as serious as it once was in most countries, the virus continues to create complications beyond our control. We cannot stress enough the importance of purchasing travel insurance that covers Covid-related interruptions and cancellations. Please double-check any policy before you buy it. To read more about our covid protocols, vaccination requirements, and testing rules, please visit our Covid FAQ page. Forbes put together a great list of Travel Insurance policies that offer Covid-19 coverage: check it out here. While it's important to be aware of the above, don't stress! It might be a trickier summer travel season than usual, but it's still going to be filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, incredible destinations, unforgettable memories, and a whole bunch of new friends. Many of you have been waiting two years to explore the world again, and we're overjoyed that you finally have that opportunity again. Bring a positive attitude, and you'll have the trip of a lifetime. Whether you're traveling with FTLO or heading out on your own, cheers to another year of seeing this beautiful world!

**A note from team FTLO** The airline industry is still feeling the effects of the Covid pandemic. As flights continue to be delayed, the risk of losing a checked bag increases dramatically. We HIGHLY RECOMMEND CARRYING ON all your luggage if you can. Known for its diverse landscapes, Croatia has everything to offer from day trips to atmospheric local towns and cities, to adventures in mountains and forests, or afternoons spent lounging by the stunning and expansive coastline. As you plan your trip, we want to perfect your summer packing list for Croatia to make the most of your experience. Whether you’re aiming to spend your days overlooking the sparkling waters of the Adriatic sea, or you’re eager to raft down the Cetina River to tackle some rapids, our Croatia packing list will prepare you for your upcoming adventure. If you're after even more insider info, you can join the FTLO community as well. What to Pack for Croatia - Essentials What to Wear in Croatia What to Leave Behind for Your Croatian Vacation 1. What to Pack for Croatia - Essentials What better place to start packing for the the essentials items for your Croatian vacation. Whether you plan to spend your days exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Town, Dubrovnik, lounging on the coast of Hvar, or white water rafting to take in all of Split’s natural outdoor beauty, these are a few items that will be essential to your travels. The Basics Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses Swimsuit, towel (towels are available at all hotels, but it’s always nice to have your own) Comfortable sandals and walking shoes Outdoor items: a comfortable pair of sneakers for hikes, insect repellent, travel water bottle Day bag or tote (with zipper!) or backpack Charging adapter and all electronic chargers Carry-on Items Passport + 2 hard copies of passport Prescription medications Glasses + / contacts + solution Cash (euros) + credit cards Phone + charger Toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, hairbrush, razor, makeup) Miscellaneous Face mask + Hand sanitizer Camera / GoPro + chargers Basic first aid: Band-aids, tweezers, pain relievers Allergy medications Anti-nausea medication if you’re prone to motion sickness 2. What to Wear in Croatia When it comes to traveling, one of the most important factors to take into account is the weather of the location you will be visiting. Croatia is warm and sunny throughout the summer and that heat (think mid-70s to mid-80s) often lingers into the early Fall. Sounds pretty perfect for exploring the coastline and spending time outdoors, doesn't it? Your best bet when putting together that Croatia packing list is to bring along some airy linens, breathable pieces, and light layers that will have you prepared for any cool breezes once the sun sets. Here’s what we recommend packing for a trip to Croatia. 7 Day Packing List for Women Neutral tank tops (3-4) Light long sleeve (1-2) Evening tops (1-3) Summer dress (3) Maxi dress (2-3) Shorts (2) Boyfriend jeans or light pants (2) Sweater of shawl (1) Adventure / active clothes (1-2 fits) Beach sandal Stylish sandals (for nights out) Simple sneakers (like a pair of Nikes or Allbirds) (1) Swimsuit (1-2) Beach cover up (1-2) Sports bra (1-2, more if you workout) Pajamas 7 days of undergarments (more if you want to work out) 7 Day Packing List for Men Neutral T’s (3-4) Linen shirts (4-5) Light long-sleeve (1) Dress shirt / button up (2) Neutral shorts (3-4) Linen pants (2) Chinos (1) Light stylish jacket (1) Adventure / active clothes (1-2 fits) Swim trunks (2) Sandal (1) Simple sneakers (1) Summer loafer / espadrille (1) 7 days of undergarments (more if you want to work out) 3. What to leave behind for your vacation in croatia The lighter you pack, the better. Makes for more room for souvenirs. :) In case you do forget something essential to your travels, there's no need to worry with all the great local shops in any European country. When we were packing for Croatia, these are some items we’ve found that never seemed to see the light of day. Heavy heeled dress shoes. This applies to men and women. Leave the heels behind, leave the heavy, leather dress shoes behind; they will simply not serve you in the summer and you’ll be twisting your ankles trying to walk on the cobblestone streets with any sort of heel. It’s best to stick to loafers and cute sandals or flats. Jeans. With the exception of a light breathable jeans, you probably won’t even bother pulling these out of your suitcase due to the heat. Instead, pack light linen or flowy pants and you’ll be golden. Accessories. A few basics like golden studs or a simple watch is nice, but you’ll likely be spending most of your time by the sea and will probably want to refrain from wearing many accessories. Hiking boots. A lightweight sneaker will do just fine for most outdoor activities. Hiking boots will quickly become excessive and are very heavy to pack. Hair dryers. No worries here - all hotels have hair dryers. Other heavy items. You’re likely to find yourself moving from plane to boat to cobblestone road, so if you’re second-guessing whether to pack those extra jeans or bulky shoes, we promise you will not regret leaving them behind. Want to get a better idea of what to expect during your visit ? Check out our fantastic summer itinerary to Croatia! If that get's you inspired for a little bit more traveling, dive into our trip calendar for even more ideas.

For those with wanderlust in their hearts and visions of paradise twinkling in their eyes, the options for international travel this summer continue to improve. From Africa to Europe and even Asia, Covid restrictions are being left behind as the competition for those all-important tourism dollars heats up once more. It's time to start thinking about summer 2022 international travel. So, where do you begin? How do you narrow it down when you've got so much to choose from for summer travel? Are the meandering streets of ancient European capitals calling your name? Do the white sand beaches and crystal clear waters of Central America drift into your dreams at night? Perhaps those emerald rice terraces and hidden Buddhist monasteries plastered to your desktop background have you longing for adventure? Have no fear; we're here to break down your best bets for international travel with this summer travel guide. Note: All Covid-19 data is accurate as of April 14, 2022, but with restrictions ever-changing it's best to always check travel restrictions before planning your trip. The Americas An obvious favorite for many of us from the States due to the relatively low cost, proximity, and stunning scenery, both Central and South America are welcoming travelers en masse. And while more tourists arrive and reach the sun-drenched shores by the week, that doesn't mean it's impossible to find your own deserted piece of paradise. Many of our favorite spots are far from the well-trodden trail. Costa Rica This narrow stretch of mountains, rainforests, and beaches is one of the world's eco-tourism capitals. The diverse Costa Rican landscape is an adventurer's dream, and the country offers a wide range of outdoor escapes. It's no surprise that tourism accounts for such a large part of the local economy—well over a million tourists visited last year alone. It's important to note that Costa Rica's climate is complex, and the rainy season actually runs from May through December. However, that doesn't mean the summer months are a wash; that's far from true. In fact, during these "rainy" months, the interior jungles may be getting drenched while the coasts often play host to gorgeous sunny days. Many travelers (including us) love the Costa Rican summer months; everything is vibrant and full of life, and the crowds are gone. Overview: Travel is allowed with some restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: No proof of a covid-19 vaccination is required. Covid Test: No tests are required. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Costa Rica trips. Explore Costa Rica→ Belize The Caribbean gem is home to some of the most unspoiled white-sand beaches in the region and a mecca for snorkeling and diving. Although the hot summer months constitute the low season, the country's countless cays, bays, and lagoons attract guests from North America throughout the year. So if kicking back and relaxing on beach or boat sounds like a good time, consider checking out this turquoise paradise. Similar to Costa Rica, the summer months in Belize mean lower prices, smaller crowds, and more paradise for you to enjoy. If you don't mind sporadic showers, it's a great time to check out the endless jungled islands. If you like your paradise with a bit of culture, you're in luck as well. There are colorful local festivals running throughout the summer months just waiting to be explored—check out the lobster festivals, they’re a foodie's dream and take place in San Pedro, Placencia, and Caye Caulker. Overview: Travel is allowed with some restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: Not required Covid Test: Vaccinated travelers do not require a test. Unvaccinated travelers must test or take a test upon arrival. Quarantine: Not required for vaccinated or negative tests. Masks: Masks are not required. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Belize trips. Explore Belize → Colombia From Cartagena's walled, colonial streets to the lush, jungled mountains of Medellin, Colombia has emerged from decades of tumult as a true tourism success story. With coasts on the Caribbean and Pacific, a vast stretch of the Andes Mountain range, and the second-highest level of biodiversity on the planet, the country is an excellent jumping-off point for outdoor exploration and a gateway to the rest of South America. With its proximity to the equator, Colombia is not hugely affected by the change of seasons; however, the summer months do tend to be drier than the rest of the year. This is a fantastic time to visit, especially if you've got some Andes hiking in mind. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are not required for fully vaccinated travelers. Negative tests are required for those who received their second shot within 14 days of flying. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in indoor public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Colombia trips. Explore Colombia → If you're looking for a longer stay in Colombia this summer, check out our sister company Sojrn's Spanish in Colombia chapter! Mexico One of our favorite foodie and all-around destinations, Mexico is an excellent choice for a summer excursion with energetic cities, fascinating historical sites, and endless expanses of beaches on both the Caribbean and Pacific. The beautiful country is an American favorite for the ease and quickness of entry. While we won't be kicking off our Mexico City trip again until the fall, there are many regions of Mexico that make for great summer getaways. As summer's the down season, there are more than enough beaches to cool down on and cheap flights to get you there. Thankfully, Mexico is fully embracing international travelers, with hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightlife back in full swing. Mask mandates and general health precautions are in place in most public areas, but that hasn't stunted tourism too much. Overview: Travel is allowed. Covid-19 Vaccine: Not required, but recommended. Covid Test: Negative Covid test results are not required to enter Mexico but are recommended. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in some public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Mexico City trips. Explore Mexico → Europe After a brief hiatus, the past year has seen a substantial rebound for European travel, with more borders open today than ever these past two years. For most European destinations, summer is peak season, so summer 2022 international travel across the pond is sure to be a happening time. If romantic cobbled alleyways and a glass of wine paired with Mediterranean views are calling your name, consider one of these mainstays of history, architecture, and culture. Italy From the famed, sun-drenched beaches of the Amalfi Coast to the streets and squares that gave birth to modern democracy, Italy is always high on the list for American travelers. Perhaps your stomach's been rumbling for a hearty bowl of Bolognese, or maybe your nose perked up at the gnocchi in your local Italian restaurant, and you've been longing ever since for the real thing. Whatever the reason, Italy in the summer is a sure thing for a good time. The summer months are nothing short of spectacular. The weather is perfect (perhaps hot for some, not for us), the Med is a bathwater delight, and the skies are blue and clear. We do have to point out that August is Ferragosto in Italy, or essentially a month of nationwide holiday. Prices shoot up, and crowds flock to the mountains and sea. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is not required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are not required for fully vaccinated travelers. Negative tests are required for unvaccinated travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Italy trips. Explore Amalfi & Puglia → Explore Tuscany & Rome → If you're looking for a longer stay in Italy this summer, check out our sister company Sojrn's Wine in Tuscany chapter! Croatia We’re not sure if Game of Thrones did it or if it was just Croatia’s time to shine, but tourism in this charming Mediterranean nation has been booming recently. Summers are undoubtedly the season to visit as the weather is perfect, from the ancient, castled walls of Dubrovnik to the cascading falls of Krka National Park. Of course, when it’s really time to unwind, that oh so inviting Mediterranean welcomes friends new and old. Some of our favorite spots are actually out at sea, so make sure you’ve got a few days to do some off-the-beaten-path exploration as well. Check out the medieval town of Hvar, and spend an afternoon or evening living it up in Croatian paradise. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is not required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are not required for fully vaccinated travelers. Negative tests are required for unvaccinated travelers unless they choose to quarantine for 7-days upon arrival. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in certain settings. Health pass may be required for public activities. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Croatia trips. Explore Croatia → Spain Summers in Spain are vibrant and energetic. It's a period of hot days, warm nights, excitement, and culture. By evening, the streets and plazas of cities, villages, and small towns across the country come alive with activity, and the sounds of couples, friends, and families laughing reverberate through narrow alleys. If you're interested in culture and enjoying an authentic experience, a Spanish summer may be for you. Locals often siesta during the hotter hours, and the electricity begins to pulse through the streets around 5 pm. Tapas and pintxo joints open their doors, and some of the continent's best food and wines are served up. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is not required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are not required for fully vaccinated travelers. Negative tests are required for unvaccinated travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Spain trips. Explore Barcelona → Explore Basque Country → If you're looking for a longer stay in Spain this summer, check out our sister company Sojrn's Art & Architecture in Barcelona chapter! Portugal We're not going to lie to you; there's no bad time to go to Portugal. It's hard to go wrong with the friendly locals, delicious delicacies, and insanely cheap prices. And we didn't even mention the history. Or the architecture. Not even the wine! Drink the wine. Drink all of the wine. Portugal in summer is something else. From the colorful streets of Porto down to the exciting capital of Lisbon and the golden coast of the Algarve, it's a nation that shines brightest in the summer sun. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is not required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are not required for fully vaccinated travelers. Negative tests are required for unvaccinated travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in indoor public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Portugal trips. Explore Portugal → France With perfect weather and beautiful scenery around every bend, summers in France are what vacation dreams are made of. The purple lavender fields of Provence bloom, the Tour De France draws crowds, and the fireworks of Bastille Day bring families to town squares across the country. From the cobbled streets of Paris down to the Riviera, it’s an exciting time to travel the region. France has gone in and out of lockdown a few times and has seen varying degrees of Covid surges over the past two years. Currently, the outlook for the summer months looks excellent, but as things change so quickly, it’s always a good idea to double-check before you book. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccines are required to enter. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are no longer required for travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in some public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO France trips. Explore South of France → Explore Basque Country → If you're looking for a longer stay in France this summer, check out our sister company Sojrn's Fashion in Paris chapter! Greece Day after day of stunningly blue skies and clear, calm seas are on the agenda for anyone heading to Greece this summer. Of course, with reliably fantastic weather, it's no surprise that Greek summers draw the crowds. The country's picturesque coastline and islands, clad in blue-roofed, whitewashed homes, are a major draw for tourists the world over. There can be crowds, and prices do go up; however, the golden beaches and crystal-clear seas more than make up for all that. This is one of our favorite summertime destinations. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is not required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are not required for fully vaccinated travelers. Negative tests are required for unvaccinated travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Greece trips. Explore Greece→ If you're looking for a longer stay in Greece this summer, check out our sister company Sojrn's Greek Culture in Athens chapter! Ireland In the summer, the rolling fields of Ireland come alive in brilliant shades of greens—there’s no better time to hike, trek, or travel through this friendly nation of five million. The days are long, the nights short, and counties from Kerry to Clare and Cavan are just waiting to be explored. The summer months also bring numerous cultural festivals, including one of our all-time favorites, the Puck Fair, where a goat is caught and crowned king. Yeah, you should check this one out. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccines are not required to enter. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are no longer required for travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are recommended in some public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Ireland trips. Explore Ireland→ Scotland Much like Ireland, the best time to visit Scotland is the summer. The weather is much nicer than the rest of the year, and it’s generally more predictable. You can expect temperatures to be reliably (mostly, this is Scotland, after all) in the high 50s and low 60s and the soaring scenery to be carpeted in life. The days in June are long; with 18 hours of sunlight, you’ve got an incredible opportunity to see the great outdoors. The capital of Edinburgh is brimming with activity, and everyone is outside enjoying the respite from the nation’s more tumultuous seasons. There seem to be festivals, events, and shows put on every single day of the summer. Overview: Travel is allowed. Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccines are not required to enter. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are no longer required for travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are recommended in some public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Scotland trips. Explore Scotland→ Asia The road to recovery from Covid for many Asian nations has been long, arduous, and full of setbacks; however, it looks like much of the continent is finally rounding the bend. For the hustle and bustle of some of the world's most fun and chaotic nations, consider checking out some of our favorites. Turkey The summer months are great for visiting this transcontinental nation. If you're in Istanbul, this is a perfect time to get out on the water and explore the Bosporus. If you're inland, the landscape can bake during the heat of the day, but the mornings and evenings are ideal for exploring the endless thousand-year ruins of ancient civilizations. During June, July, and August, the real draw is the sea, which seems to turn to wild shades of blues and greens beneath the Turkish sun. Water temperatures reach over 70 degrees, and the swimming, snorkeling, and beachside lounging are fantastic. Overview: Travel is allowed with some restrictions. Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccines are not required to enter Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are no longer required for travelers who are vaccinated. Unvaccinated travelers need a negative test or note showing recent Covid recovery. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are recommended in some public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Turkey trips. Explore Turkey → Jordan Petra. Everyone should make it to Jordan at least once in their life just to see Petra. Words won’t do it justice because it will leave you speechless. Jordan’s friendly people, surreal desert landscapes, and breathtakingly starry skies are just icing on the cake; little extras that solidify this Middle Eastern destination as one of our favorites. The climate varies here as the landscapes rise and fall. The summer months can be sizzling in some regions and perfect in others. However, there’s no rain, and that makes it one of the best times to visit in our opinion. Most of the nation's music and dance festivals also take place in June, July, and August, so it's a good time to catch some culture. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is not required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are not required. Quarantine: Not required for vaccinated travelers. Masks: Masks are required in public. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Jordan trips. Explore Jordan → Vietnam Home to thousands of years of history, frenetic motorbike-mad cities, and the best and cheapest damn cuisine in the world, Vietnam is a food, culture, and nature lover's paradise. From Uncle Ho's mausoleum and the ancient capital of Hanoi to the jagged cliffs and soaring, twisting mountainside roads of Ha Giang, there's excitement around every corner in this nation of 97 million. For those with time on their hands and adventure in their heads, Vietnam is an excellent choice for a lengthy summer trip. With so much history and so much to see, it isn't easy to soak it all up in a week, so make it a longer visit if you can. The weather always seems to vary across this long nation; however, the summer months often see more rain than the rest of the year and are a tad cooler. After a years-long battle with Covid, Vietnam has just recently reopened to the world. Travelers are not required to be vaccinated; however, a negative PCR test must be shown from within 72 hours of departure or 24 hours for antigen. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is not required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are required for travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Vietnam trips. Explore Vietnam→ Africa Home to some of the world’s most captivating parks and, in our opinion, the most fascinating flora and fauna on earth, Africa is slowly coming alive from the permafrost of Covid. While this wild continent might not be a traditional summer destination, the months that kick off shoulder season are great for beating the crowds and experiencing rich and diverse cultures from Cairo to Cape Town. Morocco With vibrant colors, overwhelming aromas, and strange melodies ringing out from every bazaar, tea shop, and riad, visiting Morocco is an all-out assault on the senses and a frenetic, chaotic cultural experience. While the nation and much of the continent, for that matter, bakes in the heart of the summer, April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit and explore for yourself. If you’re considering crossing the Sahara by camel, getting lost in the mazes of Marrakech, or falling in love with Fez, do it in the shoulder seasons. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are required for travelers. Quarantine: Not required. Masks: Masks are required in public spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO Morocco trips. Explore Morocco→ South Africa The home of Kruger National Park, Table Mountain, and endless expanses of bushland and wilderness teeming with biodiversity, South Africa is for the adventure lovers out there. While the sprawling nation of 60 million is always waiting to be explored, in the Southern Hemisphere, the climate is reversed, and our summer months can actually be a bit chilly and wet. We recommend April or October, when it's warmer, dryer, and overall, much more pleasant. This spectacular country has had a difficult go with Covid and has seen at least four massive spikes in caseloads. Today, however, things are finally settling down, and the nation is welcoming back foreign travelers. Overview: Travel is allowed with restrictions Covid-19 Vaccine: Vaccine is not required. Covid Test: Negative Covid tests are required for unvaccinated travelers. Quarantine: Not required for vaccinated travelers. Masks: Masks are required in indoor spaces. Resource: Sherpa Note: Vaccines and pre-travel Covid tests are required to join our FTLO South Africa trips. Explore South Africa → If you've never met us before, we're FTLO Travel! A group tour company for 20 and 30 something year old young professionals. We design and run laid-back trips around the world that connect you to new, like minded people while still have the adventure and cultural enrichment of solo travel. Check out our trips here.

Heading for a few days of surf, sand, and jungle in Costa Rica? Get your packing list in order before you fly so you can let all your worries wash away with the tide when you arrive for your weekend getaway in paradise. This tiny Central American nation is home to some of the most beautiful, rugged scenery in the region. So when jetting down, it's essential to pack for a bit of adventure, exploration, and outdoor fun. If you’re thinking ribbons of waterfalls, soaring jungles, and pristine beaches, you're on the right path. Whether you're joining #ftlocostarica or heading out on your own, this is the ultimate guide of what to pack for Costa Rica. We've broken it down into three sections for you: 1. Climate of Costa Rica 2. What to Wear in Costa Rica The Essentials Good to have 3. What Else to Bring Must Haves Maybes Climate of Costa Rica: Although Costa Rica actually has 12 varying microclimates, you can usually expect a balmy, tropical environment that remains relatively consistent throughout the year. Temperatures are warmest along the coasts and dip throughout the rainforests of the country's interior. You should expect mid-80s by the sea, dropping five or ten degrees as you head inland. Most of the country is generally dry between December and April, while rain is common throughout the rest of the year. This isn't too surprising when you realize that 51% of the nation is rainforest. All that rain certainly isn't a bad thing; it's what brings this brilliant, vibrant ecosystem to life and gives birth to the exotic plants and animals that roam the 20,000 square miles. What's all this add up to? Well, it's important to plan ahead when you think about what to pack for weekend trips to Costa Rica. What to Wear in Costa Rica: Your wardrobe should be closely tied to your itinerary. If you're planning on a weekend getaway to the beach, you can probably pack a bit lighter and less outdoorsy. On the other hand, you'll need some activewear and rain gear if you're heading for the jungle. If the whole country is your oyster, you'll need a bit of everything. When we think about our weekend trips to Costa Rica, we take our activities into account at the onset. In general, it's good to keep in mind that this treasure of biodiversity lies close to the equator, so before we get into the details, start planning out light, airy clothes that are easy to wash and quick to dry. Since we visit both jungle and sea on our Costa Rica trip, here’s a good starting point for what to pack for a well-rounded, 5-day Costa Rican experience. The Essentials 3 Warm Weather/Athletic Outfits Think about light, dry-fit materials. These are versatile and useful in multiple different microclimates. 2-3 Evening Outfits You certainly don't need to dress to the nines in Costa Rica, but you should pack a couple of nicer outfits for evenings out. Consider airy cotton or linen shirts, blouses, or dresses; something that breathes. 1-2 Light Jackets or Sweaters It shouldn't get too chilly, but evenings can be brisk, particularly if you're in the country's more mountainous regions, so it's good to have an outer layer to keep you warm. 1 Light Rain Jacket It's worth mentioning again Costa Rica is half rainforest, and showers are common throughout the country. Getting caught out in the rain, particularly when you're on vacation, is never fun. On the flip side, neither is sweating buckets beneath a heavy raincoat. For weekend trips to Costa Rica think about something light and airy. 1 Pair of Comfy Walking Shoes Try to find a versatile pair that you wouldn't mind hiking through cloud forests or walking the streets of small towns with. Sandals or Flip Flops A necessity with Costa Rica's incredible beaches. Socks, Underwear, and Pajamas Easy to forget and a pain when you do. Sunglasses and Hat You're going to be 10 degrees from the equator, so it's important to pack for the sun. Swimsuit and Swimming Shirt You're probably hitting either the Caribbean or Pacific at some point; after all, the seas are bathwater perfect, so don't get caught without a swimsuit. Consider something that covers a lot of skin if you burn easily, and add a swimming shirt if you're comfortable with one or plan to take a stab at surfing. Nice to Have 1 Pair of Nicer Shoes Not a necessity by a long shot, but if you feel like your one pair of comfy shoes and/or flip flops won't cut it, consider a pair of something a bit nicer for going out. We're not talking stilettos or anything over the top here... Multiple Swimsuits Sometimes one swimsuit just won't cut it. Especially when a humid climate is involved (in terms of drying time.) If it's not taking up much space, pack a few. Long Pants If you’re in the jungle, it’s more likely that a good pair of breathable pants will come in handy. What else to Bring: Smaller and easier to forget, your miscellaneous items are also a necessity. Think about the climate when packing these for weekend trips to Costa Rica; they can save the day. Miscellaneous Must-Haves Phone and Charger (American’s will not need adapters or converters) Masks Vaccine Card or Photo (even if it's not required when you fly, it's always handy) Prescriptions and Basic Med Kit – including Tums or Charcoal, probiotics, or other digestion aids, band-aids, tweezers, antibacterial cream, or dramamine if prone to motion sickness and plan to spend time out on the open seas Essential Travel Toiletries – toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, shampoo, conditioner deodorant, razor, shaving cream, make-up, etc Cash and Credit Cards Sunblock (Reef safe is a must!) Insect Repellent Miscellaneous Maybes Reusable Water Bottle Travel Backpack or Tote for day trips Dry bag to protect your gear on beach days or boat days Lightweight Beach Towel or Blanket Dry Shoes Camera or Go Pro Book or Kindle for beach reading At the end of the day, you're heading to Costa Rica, so don't stress too much when it comes to preparations. After all, you’ve made it to la pura vida. Most people should be able to get away with packing only a carry-on for a long weekend getaway, so you shouldn't have to worry about the cost or hassle of checked bags either. Some people love packing; others despise it; either way, a little bit of preflight thought goes a long way in post-flight enjoyment. If you've never met us before, we're FTLO Travel! A group tour company for 20 and 30 something year old young professionals. We design and run laid-back trips around the world that connect you to new, like minded people while still have the adventure and cultural enrichment of solo travel. Check out all of our international trips!

**A note from team FTLO** The airline industry is still feeling the effects of the Covid pandemic. As flights continue to be delayed, the risk of losing a checked bag increases dramatically. We HIGHLY RECOMMEND CARRYING ON all your luggage if you can. Known for its crystal clear beaches, historic sites, ancient ruins, charming villas, gorgeous views, and laid-back lifestyle, Greece is the perfect place to experience an authentic Mediterranean summer! To have the best trip possible, you're going to need to pack accordingly; luckily for you, we've already done all the research building out our Greece packing guide so that you don't have to (if you want even more inside info, join the FTLO Community). Whether you're visiting Santorini or Crete (we just launched an amazing trip there!), you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need to spend your days island hopping and exploring ancient landmarks and your evenings sipping wine and ouzo in rustic restaurants and enjoying the lively nightlife on the islands. If you're heading overseas, then do it right and perfect your summer packing list for Greece! Here's our list of what to pack for Greece: The Essentials Recommended Attire What to Leave Behind 1. Essential Items for a Greece Vacation You’re going to want to start with the essential items for your Greece vacation. Whether you plan to spend your days lounging on the expansive coastline, exploring the ancient sights, island hopping on catamarans, or hiking to world class viewpoints, these are a few must-haves on your Greece packing list that you’ll absolutely need in your bag. The Basics Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses Swimsuit, towel (towels are available at all hotels, but it’s always nice to have your own) Comfortable sandals and walking shoes Outdoor items: a comfortable pair of sneakers for hikes, insect repellent, travel water bottle Day bag or tote (with zipper!) or backpack Charging adapter and all electronic chargers Carry-on Items Passport + 2 hard copies of passport Prescription medications Glasses + / contacts + solution Cash (euros) + credit cards Phone + charger Toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, hairbrush, razor, makeup) Miscellaneous Face mask + Hand sanitizer Camera / GoPro + chargers Basic first aid: bandaids, tweezers, pain relievers Allergy medications Anti-nausea medication if you’re prone to motion sickness 2. Recommended Attire While any visit to this beautiful country is sure to be a good time, when you're bouncing between sun-kissed islands and ancient archaeological sites, you're going to want to think about your wardrobe. Luckily for you, we've crisscrossed the nation, so from stylish to comfortable, we know exactly what to wear whether you're packing for a beach vacation in Greece or heading to the city. 7 Day Packing List for Women Neutral tank tops (3-4) Light long sleeve (1-2) Evening tops (1-3) Summer dress (3) Maxi dress (2-3) Shorts (2) Boyfriend jeans or light pants (2) Sweater of shawl (1) Adventure / active clothes (1-2 fits) Beach sandal Stylish sandals (for nights out) Simple sneakers (like a pair of Nikes or Allbirds) (1) Swimsuit (1-2) Beach cover up (1-2) Sports bra (1-2, more if you workout) Pajamas 7 days of undergarments (more if you want to work out) 7 Day Packing List for Men Neutral T’s (3-4) Linen shirts (4-5) Light long-sleeve (1) Dress shirt / button up (2) Neutral shorts (3-4) Linen pants (2) Chinos (1) Light stylish jacket (1) Adventure / active clothes (1-2 fits) Swim trunks (2) Sandal (1) Simple sneakers (1) Summer loafer / espadrille (1) 7 days of undergarments (more if you want to work out) 3. What to leave behind When you're thinking about what to pack for Greece, you should also think about what not to pack for Greece. The lighter you pack, the better. Think of how fun it will be to hop from airplane to boat without hauling around a ton extra of stuff! To give you further peace of mind, there’s no shortage of incredible and locally sourced shops in this Mediterranean nation, so if you decide you want something you can always purchase it once you’re there. Here are some items we’ve found that never make it out of a suitcase when you pack them. Heavy, heeled dress shoes. This applies to men and women. Leave the heels behind, leave the heavy, leather dress shoes behind; they will not serve you in the hot summer and you’ll be twisting your ankles trying to walk on the cobblestone streets with any sort of heel. It’s best to stick to loafers and cute sandals or flats. Jeans. With the exception of a light breathable jeans, you probably won’t even bother pulling these out of your suitcase due to the heat. Instead, pack light linen or flowy pants and you’ll be golden! Accessories. A few basics like golden studs or a simple watch is nice, but you’ll likely be spending most of your time by the sea and will probably want to refrain from wearing many accessories. Hiking boots. A lightweight sneaker will do just fine for most outdoor activities. Hiking boots will quickly become excessive, and of course, they are very heavy to pack. Best to save those for our South Africa trip ;) Hair dryers. No worries here - all hotels have hair dryers. (Also, did we mention it’s hot?) Other heavy items. You’re likely to find yourself moving from plane to boat to cobblestone road, so if you’re second-guessing whether to pack those extra jeans or shoes, we promise you will not regret leaving them behind. Want to get a better idea of what to expect during your visit? Check out our flawless summer itinerary to the Greek Islands to go along with your Greece packing list. Or, alternatively, if you're interested in a different side of the Greek islands, check out our latest adventure to Crete. If you’re interested in exploring the world with FTLO and an amazing group of travelers, check out our upcoming trips or join our community by filling out a profile, and one of our Community Managers will help find the best destinations for you!

International travel has made a triumphant return in 2022. As more people are getting vaccinated and we are all safely learning to reintegrate back into social settings, we’re optimistic that the end of the pandemic is on the horizon and that we will all get to travel around the world together again. At FTLO we understand the value and benefit of travel for mental wellness. As we resume our trips to countries that are safely opening their borders, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the importance of travel as a tool for aiding mental health and wellness. We don’t have all the answers and we aren’t mental health experts, but we do know a thing or two about how transformational travel can be and how useful of a tool for mental health travel can be. We know how it can help with regaining a sense of independence, freedom, and reawakening after a long pandemic. Here are some of the main reasons we want to encourage everyone to keep travel in mind as a tool for resetting in the next year - whether that means a weekend at the beach, a week in Greece, or a getaway to Italy. Travel reminds you that you're a strong, capable person. Travel requires a certain level of independence, because no one else is going to take the initiative to set up your vacation. They might be able to help you with itineraries and logistics (OK, fine, we can help!), but at the end of the day, travel requires initiative. Once you realize your potential to plan and make decisions, anything is possible! Travel inspires new ideas. It’s almost impossible to travel to a new place and not feel inspired by everything new that you are encountering... food, technology, or people. Wherever you go, your creativity will flourish, and who knows where that could take you next. Travel provides a new lens for evaluating yours and the world’s problems. It’s easy to forget that the challenges you face in life - though valid and real - are proportionate to your own lived experiences. The scale of your problems changes once you step outside of your immediate surroundings and into the complex and changing world, and it’s easier to put your hardships and shared human experiences into perspective. Travel ignites spontaneity and curiosity. If you’re not already the most spontaneous and curious person in the world, traveling will ignite (and sometimes demand!) those characteristics in you and you'll be unstoppable! Travel brings out the most authentic you. When you’re traveling somewhere new, you’re experiencing new things, meeting new people and in a constant process of learning. So when you’re traveling, you’re going to meet the most vulnerable, real, confused, amazed, open, curious, and resourceful version of yourself that you never knew you could be. Travel reminds you that the world is big and ready to embrace you. Regardless of what’s going on in your life, there is a big world out there ready to welcome you, embrace you, and hold you during the good and the bad times. There are more people to be met, more jobs to apply for, more conversations waiting to happen, and more of the world that would benefit from you, as you would benefit from it. Lastly, it’s time to remember what exploring and socializing feels like again. Especially after such a year of uncertainty, closures, and few opportunities to socialize safely, it’s time to see things in person again, it’s time to see the world through new lenses and to appreciate all that the planet has to offer. So if you’re stuck in a mental rut from the past few years, remember that your mental health is worth taking care of and investing time in. Tend to your mental health the way you would tend to a sprained ankle or injured wrist: with immediate attention and care. We like to travel for mental wellness. It soothes us, helps us, and guides us, and we're firm believers it can help others too. We also want to remind you that there are many resources out there that were created to help everyone reach a state of mental well-being, including medical and licensed professionals, online resources, and even just talk groups to help you wade through any and all things. Travel is yet another important element to the equation of everlasting personal growth and mental wellness, and a resource that will always be available to you, especially here at FTLO. To learn more about the FTLO and our upcoming group trips - and wellness trips! - visit ftlotravel.com.

Dear Young Professionals, You should be using all of your vacation days to travel. Sure, Covid made things tough, but now international travel has been reborn. Yet for some reason, Americans continue to wallow in the mindset of minimal vacation time, constantly bombarded by vacation shaming coworkers, friends, or family. Many young professionals in the U.S. constantly feel as if they've taken no vacation. Here's the said truth: it's true. In fact, an analysis by Project: Time Off revealed that millennials are not only shunning paid time off, they’re vacation shaming others. That is absurd. Let's not forget that the United States is the only developed country that does not require employees to take their paid time off, and already has tragically meager vacation time compared to the rest of the world. The average number paid days off (including national holidays) in the US is 16. France requires 30. Austria gives 35. Here are some reasons you should be using all of your paid time off (PTO) to travel. It isn’t “cool” to not take vacation Bragging about having tons of unused paid time off is like bragging about not opening all of your Christmas gifts (?! C'mon!). What is even less cool is shaming co-workers and friends about taking theirs. First of all, it's rude. Secondly, it creates an environment in which people feel bad about taking time for themselves – which is not only harmful to their health, but harmful to overall society. And if you are worried about not actually having the work bandwidth to take time off, that’s silly. There are certainly ways to work efficiently enough to plan for a week or two away from the office. Hell, the French manage to take a whole month of August off. And you can bet there are much busier people than you who take at least one major vacation every year. Your job will be there when you get back If you're good at your job, cashing in on your earned vacation days is not going make your boss reconsider your employment status. It costs a lot more to hire someone new. In fact, Project: Time Off found that workers who take all of their vacation days are more likely to be promoted than people who don't, which is probably closely related to the next two points. Taking a vacation will actually increase your productivity and performance If you don't take your vacation, you are doing yourself a disservice. There is a lot of scientific evidence validating the claim that taking vacation time to recharge has a positive effect on employees. It's scientifically proven that you are more valuable to your company when you take a break every now and again. Travel makes you more interesting You know what no one wants to talk about? How many nights you stayed late at the office. Alternatively, most people love to chat about their hobbies, interests, and especially travel. Not only do the personal experiences that come with travel open your mind, but having a war chest of stories to talk about at your next cocktail party will make you a more interesting person to talk to (and if you’re single, perhaps even earn you a date or two). Even if you have nothing else in common, being able to relate to the awe that someone felt seeing the pyramids or the frustration of getting swindled by a Roman taxi driver is enough to feel a connection with someone else. It will help you network Travel introduces you to new people and forces you to have conversations with all different types of characters. Your world opens up exponentially with each person you meet and when you go abroad, you are guaranteed to mix and mingle with some awesome people from around the world. it will make you happier Numerous studies have shown that travel makes people more creative, open-minded, trusting, and better problem-solvers – all of which are sure to make anyone happier. International Travel is easy, Really easy You can plan your own trips around the world using the resources that are available to you online, or take advantage of companies like FTLO Travel, where we offer small group trips exclusively for young professionals, and make it super easy to just pack up and go on a cultural, adventurous trip. For $2,500, you can join an 8-day trip to Europe, stay in great hotels, eat incredible food, and participate in unique activities. Just think, when you have a family, that same $2,500 might only cover your plane tickets. And forget about the cooking classes and the sailing happy hours. And the kite boarding lessons. And the late night beach bonfires. And...so on. The moral of the story is take your earned vacation. You owe it to yourself. And to your co-workers.

Made up of Norway, Denmark and Sweden, the Scandinavian region of Europe is a dynamic destination that every millennial and young traveler should aspire to visit at some point in their lives. (Hopefully sooner than later!) A combination of beautiful architecture, modern design, incredible natural landscapes and remote fjords all make this an unforgettable travel destination. If you've never visited Scandinavia, you're definitely going to want to after skimming our top picks for the best of Scandinavia. (Already interested? Browse dates for FTLO's upcoming excursions to Scandinavia.) Best Places to Visit in Scandinavia Copenhagen, Denmark Tivoli Gardens Oslo, Norway The fjords Stockholm, Sweden Vasa Museum in Stockholm The Castles 1. Bike through Copenhagen, Denmark No trip to the Scandinavia region is complete without a stop in Copenhagen – Denmark's capital. This colorful, seaside city, sprinkled with trendy cafes and foodie-favorites, is by far one of the best places to visit in Scandinavia. Explore the cobbled cycling capital on a bike by day and wander into world-class bars and restaurants at night to devour some seriously amazing farm-to-table, Nordic cuisine. With a number of museums, and historical sites, and beautiful architecture around every corner, you'll never run out of activities. 2. Stroll the Tivoli Gardens - Amusement park The beautiful Tivoli Gardens is an amusement park located in Copenhagen (if you're visiting the capital of Denmark, you definitely want to make a stop here). Tivoli first opened its doors in 1843, making it one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the entire world. The outdoor space has restaurants, gardens, and rides. It also hosts concerts throughout the year. Enjoy a drink, grab some food, and wander through the beautiful gardens in the evening. 3. Wander through Oslo, Norway Surrounded by mountains and water, the Norwegian capital of Oslo is home to a great vibe and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy beautiful modern architecture and wander through impressive museums for some local history and culture, check out the Fram Museum, or explore the natural Oslofjord. 4. Take a dip in the fjords From taking a boat through dark waters to hiking along staggering mountainsides, there are numerous ways to experience the magical fjords of Scandinavia. The most adventurous out there can even dive in for themselves; we're just letting you know ahead of time, it's not warm! 5. Explore Stockholm, Sweden A must-see city, Stockholm is a great place to visit if you're looking to explore world-class museums, amazing architecture, royal palaces, or really want a unique and lively experience in the Scandinavian region. This city has it all from delicious, cutting-edge cuisine, to lovely shops and markets, and picturesque port side views. Built on 14 islands, Stockholm is an absolute wonder to explore. 6. Admire the Great Vasa Museum in Stockholm Photo Credit: Vasamuseet.se The Vasa Museum has been named one of the world's best and is definitely one of the most visited institutions in the region, with more than 1 million visitors per year. It's a clear favorite for one of the best places to visit in Scandinavia. The museum features the historical warship Vasa from the 1600s with wooden sculptures that will blow your mind. Part of the Swedish National Maritime Museums, the enthralling center sheds light on the region's rich maritime history. 7. Experience Castles and Royalty in Scandinavia Experience royalty and the elegant history of Scandinavia by visiting any of its hundreds of preserved castles and palaces. You might even want to spend the night in one? You'll have the chance to admire the incredible architecture, learn about the region's history, and view galleries of royal artifacts. No matter which castles you choose to visit (many of which are accessible from the main cities), you're sure to have a unique and memorable experience that will punctuate your visit to one of the oldest and most well-preserved regions of the world. A combination of modern and historical, man-made and natural, Scandinavia is a getaway destination unlike any other in the world. Spend a few days in the cities trying world-class cuisines and visiting some of the most popular museums in the world, or get away for several days to explore the incredible landscapes and take in the fresh air of the remote northern region. Convinced? Check out FTLO's upcoming trip dates and join a new group of friends to explore the best of Scandinavia on the adventure of a lifetime!

After an eternity of Covid, it's finally time to dust off your passport and start traveling again! Now all you need to decide is where to first? A tropical, laid-back trip down to Costa Rica? A luxurious summer getaway to Croatia? Or perhaps an adventure-packed escape to the surreal terrain of Jordan? Deciding where to travel isn't always easy, but we're here to help. Now that travel is possible again, choosing where to go can seem overwhelming, especially with the constantly updating list of global restrictions. Here are some simple ways to narrow down your search and pick the best place for you to go on your next getaway. Read on for tips on how to decide where to travel to next. 1. Borders and visas While many countries are opening their borders again to foreign travelers, there are still many that are closed and others that have restrictions. When you're deciding where to travel, make sure to check each government's travel information website for recent updates on visas, vaccination requirements (if any), and whether borders are open to tourists. 2. health status and guidelines The status of each country's health varies thus the precautions that you need to take will vary. It is worth looking into these details by doing a search on the country's government website for updates on the status of the nation's health. This will help inform how cities and towns are operating and how that might affect how you experience the country. 3. Check Out Flight Costs Check out flight costs on a third-party website like Kayak or Skyscanner to help you find what the cheapest flights are during the season that you want to travel. This might immediately narrow down your search of where to travel to next to a handful of countries because some flights will cost more than others, depending on the time of year and popularity of the destination. Also, make sure to consider the airline's rules on refunds or cancellations, in the case that you might want to change your flight - this might also impact whether you're interested in booking that particular deal / airline. 4. Do a Quick Search for "Points of Interest" Google will populate a list of popular sites and attractions for any given country when you search "points of interest" for your desired country. This will help you get a feel for what you can expect to see do and do while you're there. Hikes? Beach days? Museums? Festivals? Take this a step further and dive into whether those activities that you're interested in are open or operating differently due to the pandemic. 5. Consider the Weather Another easy way to narrow down your search is by considering what type of climate you want to be in. A tropical getaway in South America? A snowy adventure in Scandinavia? If you know what type of climate you want to be in, you can eliminate countries from your list or put others on your radar for any given season. 6. Think Culture, Food, and Geography Take a moment to think about what cultures, cuisines, or landscapes you might want to be immersed into. Perhaps you love Mexican cuisine... or you want to learn more about Greek mythology... or want to spend your days relaxing by a lake... Take those interests into consideration and that will help inform your next getaway. 7. Establish Your Budget If you can establish your budget and decide how much you want to invest into your trip, you'll be able to decide which countries match that budget. For example, some places in Europe can get expensive rather quickly, while regions of South America can be quite affordable on the U.S. dollar. Hopefully these tips will help you narrow your search as you decide where to go for your next vacation! For ideas on where to travel to and new travel adventures to join in on, check out FTLO's upcoming trips and sign up today. Looking for an extended trip? Explore out newly launched Sojrn: like a study-abroad experience, but for adults who want to take a month-long "workation" to a new country!