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Dear FTLO Family, At this point, most of you don't know me personally, which feels strange because that hasn't been the case for very long. FTLO has grown from 3 weekend trips in 2016 to having over 100 planned departures in 2020. For the first two and a half years, I led almost every trip. Week after week, I bonded with groups of amazing people who shared my love of travel and I knew the faces and stories of everyone who traveled with us. The past year and a half, the team has grown but that feeling of family has remained. You've all become a huge part of our lives, like family, whether we've met you personally or not. We genuinely care about this community we’ve built and we feel the love right back. (The number of alums who have reached out to ask about the team's wellbeing is so remarkable and appreciated, we can't even begin to thank you enough). I know you're probably getting emails from every company you've ever interacted with and I don't want to add to the noise. But since so many people have reached out, I want to give a quick update: Like hundreds of thousands of people effected by the Covid-19 pandemic, we've had a challenging past couple of weeks. The tourism industry (which employs 1 in 10 people around the world) is in crisis as we are all weathering the worst storm our industry has seen in modern history. For the love of the world, we're sitting the next couple of months out. Our trips are on hold through May 15th and we're focused on supporting our FTLO family from afar while looking forward to when we've beaten this virus and can resume connecting in person once again. In this uncertain time, please know that the team and I are always thinking about how to do right by our FTLO family - our travelers, trip leaders, team, and amazing locals around the world. FTLO's mission is to look out for the wellbeing of our community, wherever you are in the world, even if that's your own couch for the foreseeable future. During this period, we're going to focus on keeping our amazing community connected through online chats, digital trivia nights, and whatever other random fun things our currently housebound team thinks up. (more to come on this!) Thank you all so much for being a part of the FTLO Family. Your love and support means so much. Thank you also to all of the FTLO travelers whose trips have been postponed due to Covid-19 and who have been so gracious, patient, and understanding about it - we are beyond grateful. We also want to take a minute to send endless thank you's to all of the medical professionals at the front lines of this pandemic. When this is over, you all will undoubtedly be in need of some R&R, which is why we will be giving 20% off FTLO trips to any nurse, doctor, EMT, physicians assistant, or hospital administrator through the rest of the year. We look forward to taking care of you once you're done taking care of everyone else. The world is resilient and we, collectively, will get through this. At FTLO, we will be waiting on the other side of this difficult time with open arms, ready to take you around to explore this beautiful world once again. For the love, Tara

We’ve never been to a country we didn’t love, but that doesn’t mean that some don’t stand out to us for their exceptional adventurous nature! When it comes to outdoor adventures, some countries pack a punch that’s juuust right for all of our thrill and adventure-seeking travelers. Here are some of the wildest places we've knocked off our destination bucket list that have stood out to us in the past. For anyone who wants to take their adventures to another level, here’s where we recommend planning your next trip to! South Africa By far, South Africa is one of our top bucket list adventure trips recommendations for young jetsetters. Have you ever marveled at footage of wildlife in South Africa’s deserts? Now imagine seeing that in person. Now imagine being just a few yards away. Wild, isn’t it? Embarking on African wildlife safari is unlike anything else you’ve done before, and unlike anything else you’ll ever do. You’ll get to witness some truly stunning, exotic wildlife in their natural habitat, while being immersed in an amazing and unforgettable environment. Jordan Vast deserts and dunes, deep valleys and canyons, the dead sea… Jordan is an unbelievable country to adventure through. Its natural beauty alone is enough to land this country on anyone’s travel bucket list, but it’s remote and untouched landscapes are truly an adventure waiting to happen. This destinations calls to every traveler whose heart yearns for nights under starry skies, bonfires in the middle of crisp, cold deserts, hikes through steep, blue canyons and breathtaking sunsets over the milky blue waters of the dead sea. Colombia Vibrant colors, endless nights full of dancing and margaritas, the movement and bustle of the hectic city streets - Colombia is the best destination for those who love to meet new people, try new foods and discover new hole-in-the-wall bars, cafes and restaurants. The curious and outgoing traveler will love Colombia for its bold and colorful personality, full of culture, music and outgoing locals. This one's a can't miss on our destination bucket list. Lapland Located in northern Finland, Lapland is the perfect snowy playground for those who dream of winter adventures. It's one of our favorite bucket list adventure trips and one of the most unique. Snow-capped everything, reindeers and huskies, neon lights against the skies...Lapland’s scene is unlike anything else. Unless you already live there, there’s a high chance this environment and its local sports and activities will be a first for you. Ireland Verdant mountains, steep cliffs overlooking the ocean, dramatic sunsets, tall castles... Ireland is the perfect setting for adventurous travelers who love nature’s grandiosity. Adventurous drives along the coast and man, oh man...the sunsets in Ireland will draw some tears! Though the pace is more relaxed in Ireland, the adventure is no less abundant. At every turn you’ll discover a new place with an incredible history that dates back centuries. You’ll walk the streets and stroll the pubs that have been around for ages, and enjoy the company of strangers who quickly become friends over a song and a beer. Ireland’s combination of natural beauty and welcoming locals is like soup for the soul.

Many travelers are wondering how they can be more sanitary while traveling the world. We’re here to help.Whether there’s a pandemic or not, it’s always a good idea to practice good hygiene and maintain your overall health to protect yourself and others around you. Here are a few recommendations for maintaining your hygiene while traveling the world. 1. Wash your hands, wipe down your screens, and clean high-traffic surfaces. Seems simple enough? The key to making sure you do these things regularly is to be stocked with supplies to help you maintain those habits while traveling. Sanitizers, disinfectant wipes, and natural cleaners placed strategically in your suitcase or pack will help remind you to wipe down your screens (phones and laptops) or to simply sanitize your hands before eating. 2. Get your vaccines updated. Different countries will require different vaccines, so make sure to check with that country’s official travel website, or check the C.D.C and W.H.O. for official listings of which vaccines you will need when traveling there. Flu shots will help reduce your risk of getting certain illnesses and will help reduce the risk for others around you as well. 3. Minimize your exposure to people while sick. If you’re sick, make sure you’re booking single room hostels, and make sure you’re taking extra care to wipe down any high traffic surfaces before and after you use them - such as the handle on a bathroom sink. Disinfectant wipes can help do the trick! Also make sure to let your doctor know you’re sick, so that you can get recommendations directly from a professional. 4. Eat nutrient-heavy foods, drink lots of water, sleep more. These three things are always a good idea regardless of when you’re traveling, or where you’re traveling to. Eating nutrient-heavy foods will help keep your body strong when it is particularly vulnerable while traveling in new environments. Drinking lots of water will help flush your system of toxins more often. And finally, sleeping more will help keep any travel exhaustion or stress at bay. For more information on preventative measures you can take to stay health, please check out the World Health Organization or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Wherever you might be traveling to next, make sure to check with your doctor and cross-reference with the CDC and WHO to understand what your health risks are. Don’t feel shy to ask your doctor or a medical professional about how you can reduce your risk of illnesses while traveling! They’re there to help and offer recommendations and you’re more likely going to feel more confident - and less stressed - in understanding any situations or risks that may lie ahead.

We know our FTLO alum are pretty cool, but we wanted to share how cool. That's why we put together the FTLO Alum Series: Travel + Tell, where our alumni dish out the deets of their travel experiences with FTLO – the good, the wild and the amazing! Read on to see what these millennial movers and shakers are doing as they explore the world with a new group of friends. #FTLOALUM: Andre Tolmachoff Photo Cred: Courtesy of Andre Tolmachoff (far left) FTLO Trips: Cuba, February 2018 Scandinavia, July 2018 South Africa, December 2019 Lapland, March 2019 Vietnam, December 2019 Japan, May 2020 (booked and waiting for this trip!) Current City: Fresno, California Age: 32 Profession: Farming almonds and pistachios Horoscope sign: Virgo ♍ Photo Cred: Courtesy of Andre Tolmachoff FTLO, Travel + Tell ✨ Memorable Moments... Dog sledding and the northern lights were the best! The safari in South Africa was amazing. Seeing Ha Long Bay! Riding vespa scooters in Hanoi. 🍜 Best Food Experiences... Mojitos in Cuba Open faced sandwiches in Scandinavia BBQ in South Africa Reindeer in Lapland Pho and Bahn Mi sandwiches in Vietnam 🌎 This travel experience was different for me because... "Hands down the best way to travel. The FTLO guides are a friendly way to navigate a new and unfamiliar place." 💙 Next FTLO Trip I have my eyes on... FTLO Japan 2020 💡 Want to travel with FTLO? My advice... "My advice is simply to arrive with an open mind and positive attitude. You will meet some of the most interesting and fun loving people. Priceless memories are guaranteed!" Check out FTLO trips Andre has been on (and is booked for!) to Japan, South Africa, Vietnam, and more!

There's no denying that there are many moving parts that can be hard to keep track of when you're traveling internationally. Whether its flights, itineraries, food, money, health or anything else, smartphone apps can help you stay organized and remove the extra stress so you can focus on the fun part! Here are 12 of the best international travel apps that every traveler should have before heading off to a new country. 1. Hopper |Flights| Listen, we’re all aware that finding and booking international flights feels like a guessing game as you try to find the cheapest flight on the Internet. The Hopper app does the labor of cross-referencing flight websites for you, and will alert you when prices drop or are expected to drop for particular flight routes. Go ahead - save yourself the stress and make booking your flight waaay easier. 2. Skyscanner |Flights| Skyscanner is a travel aggregator that allows users to find the best prices on flights, hotels, and car bookings around the world. The site (and app) is used by more than 100 million individuals each month. Travelers have the ability to compare prices from different services and providers. The search engine is particularly well-liked for it's ease of use and functionality. 3. My TSA |Airports| With flight delays, holidays, security checks and all, getting to your international flight alone can seem like an overwhelming process. But download the My TSA app and get updates on any delays, weather conditions, foot traffic at popular airports, and even what you can and can’t bring on your flight. An app to help you stay ahead of the game! 4. Google Translate |Language / Communication| Even if you’re not traveling, this is a pretty cool app to keep in your smartphone. The Google Translate app will translate text, photos, handwriting and speech in real time, meaning you can have a conversation with someone who speaks another language and the app will do all the translating for you. Though the app requires the Internet, there are some languages that can be downloaded to function offline. 5. Loungebuddy |Airports| Say goodbye to uncomfortable airport waits, and hello to loungy lounges! Find and book airport lounges at your destination airports if you anticipate having to wait around a bit. Chill, sleep, eat, and do whatever you need to in a more comfortable airport setting. 6. Packpoint |Packing| We know that one of the most anxiety-inducing parts of preparing for an international trip is deciding on what to pack. So many options, but actually so few things you should probably be bringing! Those bright yellow pants you’ve never worn? You can probably leave those behind. But just in case, here’s an app to confirm, and which helps create a custom packing list based on your destination, gender, the season, weather forecasts, trip duration, and the nature of your trip. Happy packing! 7. Calm |Health| An app that helps you forget there’s turbulence on your plane? Sign us up! The Calm app is a meditation app that has become super popular across the globe. It helps guide users through exercises that reduce stress and anxiety and also offers soothing storytelling and music - usually told in interestingly accented voices that are sort of fun to listen to. 8. Netflix |Entertainment| Sometimes, airplanes just don’t offer free entertainment. And sometimes they don’t even have paid entertainment options. So do yourself a favor and download a streaming app (- and download shows beforehand!), so that you can have your own entertainment no matter what. You can thank us later! ;) 9. Tricount |Money / Finances| Listen, we get nervous too when we have to split the bill with our friends. No one wants to pull out a calculator, much less think about how to split the taxes and tip! The Tricount app will organize and calculate all of your group expenses - from split meals, to several transactions throughout your trip. This app is something you’ll definitely want to invest in if you’re traveling with other people. 10. Whatsapp |Communication| This messaging app is perfect for anyone who is traveling internationally. It saves you from having to purchase a chip or phone plan at your destination. Because the app uses the Internet, you can send messages, make calls, and even jump on video calls with anyone who downloads the free app as well. The ease of use has long made this one of our picks for best international travel app.s 11. Happy Cow |Food / Health| We know many travelers want to maintain their vegetarian and vegan food diets while traveling the world, and this app helps make that possible. The Happy Cow app locates places near you that offer vegan or vegetarian food options, natural food stores, and even provides a host of recipes in more than 180 countries! 12. TripWhistle |Safety| Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group of friends, safety is always key! The TripWhistle app allows you to locate the right local emergency numbers, including police, fire and ambulances. The app claims that users can “provide critical information to emergency respondents with in-app access to your street address and GPS coordinates.” Super important! 🌎 Ready to start traveling the world? Check out FTLO's upcoming group trips for young professionals to amazing destinations around the world!

We're in a bit of a lull before the next major set of holidays in the U.S., but we're definitely not waiting around to take our next (and already much needed) vacation. Sometimes, we all need a quick vacation to feel like a million bucks. Here are 10 easy weekend getaway ideas that require minimal planning and just a bit of spontaneity (if you want even more ideas, join the FTLO Community for some inside info). Quick Vacation IDeas Belize for Beach Fun Mexico City for Foodies Oaxaca for Mezcal Cocktails The American West for a Desert Escape Havana for Art and Museums National Parks for Epic Scenery Road Trip for Music Festival Vibes Costa Rica for Boats and Jungle Treks Yoga Retreat for Peace Spontaneous Round-Trips for Adventure 1. Belize for Beach Fun Beach trips aren’t just for people who love to swim and sunbathe. Most coastal regions boast charming beach towns filled with shops and delicious seafood options; bar hopping experiences abound; and you’ll find that they are excellent for photography and art. But if you do in fact love the waves and sunshine, then you can of course take a dip in the ocean and soak up some sun rays! Our Belize trip is just the trick for travelers in dire need of a sandy getaway. 2. Mexico City for Foodies Yes, you can dedicate a weekend to food! Foodie excursions are the best. Aside from giving you more reasons to have delicious photoshoots with your meals, you can also take some time to experiment with new cuisines and challenge yourself and your friends to try foods you’ve never had before. Fill your life with new flavors and experiences! (Check out FTLO’s mouth-watering foodie trip to Mexico City, it's one of our best weekend getaway ideas yet!) 3. Oaxaca for Mezcal Cocktails If you’re into any wines, beers or cocktails (or want to be into any of these), take the weekend to visit select wineries, breweries or cocktail rooms that specialize in your interest. You don’t have to already be an expert in any of the above to enjoy a good drink, and you certainly won’t regret learning more about it in the process! Our favorite getaway cocktails come from the land of culture in Oaxaca, Mexico! 4. The American West for a Desert Escape If your ideas for a weekend getaway revolve around something calmer and more refreshing consider the desert landscapes of the U.S. They offer a perfect weekend getaway for the city-dweller who needs a little break from the fast life. Spend a weekend under the stars shining bright against the night sky and wrapped up in crisp air of the desert. Breathtaking sunsets and inspiring sunrises make a weekend in the desert feel like a beautiful eternity. Rent a cabin or camp out in the desert to discover wildlife and explore cool, hip desert towns. 5. Havana for Art and Museums Take a weekend to visit colorful art spots, galleries, and museums and you’ll likely find yourself inspired to live life more vibrantly and expressively. Be it old school or modern, art has the power to challenge and inspire those who see or experience it. In fact, studies have shown that those who are exposed to art tend to be more intelligent, develop more social-emotional skills, have reduced anxiety and depression, have improved memory skills, and even live longer! Our trip down to Havana is a perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with Cuban arts and culture. 6. National Parks for Epic Scenery There are more than 60 areas across the US that are protected as National Parks, with many of them being forests, deserts, caves, valleys, bodies of water, canyons and more. Hike them, swim them, run them, camp them. Take a weekend to discover the beauty of your local environment and you might even discover your new favorite weekend getaway spot! 7. Road Trip for Music Festival Vibes The US is known for having some of the largest and best music festivals in the world, and artists from all over the world constantly run tours through the country. There are music festivals of all kinds, of all genres - no matter what type of music you’re into. You’re likely just a short drive or flight away from a lively music festival where you’ll meet new people with the same taste in music! 8. Costa Rica for Boats and Jungle Treks For all those who like a bit of lounging with their adventurous jungle escape, there's no better short trip then one down to Costa Rica. FTLO's adventure in Central America is the perfect getaway for those in need of sea, sand, sun and jungle. 9. Yoga Retreat for Peace If the goal of your weekend vaca is to feel rejuvenated, look no further than a yoga retreat. Weekend yoga retreats are perfect for cleansing your body and mind and clearing away any stress you may be experiencing from work and life. You’ll find it inspiring to take time for yourself alongside others. After a weekend of strength exercises and self-care, you’ll feel recharged and ready to take on the world. 10. Spontaneous Round-Trips for Adventure If you really want to make your weekend feel like a mini vacation, jump on a roundtrip flight to another city you’ve always wanted to visit! Seattle, Portland, Miami, Austin, Palm Springs, San Francisco, Chicago, New Orleans, are all excellent weekend destinations, to name a few…It only takes a minute to discover a new place or meet a new person! So imagine what you can do with an entire weekend? Share this with your best gal or guy to start sparking your imagination and growing that list of ideas for a weekend getaway without ever having to dip into your PTO! ;) Happy traveling! 🌎 Want a longer vacation? Check out FTLO's upcoming group trips to amazing places around the world or join our community by filling out a profile, and one of our Community Managers will help find the best destinations for you!

For all of our female traveler friends out there, we want to empower you to feel prepared to handle tough situations when things don’t go as planned, so we've put together a list of safety tips for female travelers. Unfortunately, women still face more safety challenges than men when it comes to traveling internationally and domestically, but there are some things you can do to help eliminate those extra risks. While the below list does not cover everything, it does offer some key safety tips for all female travelers who are considering heading out on an adventure soon. 1. Travel in Groups There’s power in numbers! Traveling with a group allows your to split up in to pairs if needed for different activities, and at the end of a long day, it’s a guaranteed dinner date. In other words, group travel can still come with the freedom of solo travel at any given moment, but you’ll be able to accompany and look out for one another. 2. Day Travel vs. Night Travel There are different precautions that need to be taken for day travel than for night time travel. Try to plan solo activities in the day time, and any night travel activities should be with a group - or at the very least, let someone know where you'll be. If you’re taking night transportation, make sure to have all your belongings secured and take routes that are more popular and that you can research ahead of time. 3. Know Your Drinking Limits This is more of a safety tip for travelers in general. It applies to men and women equally: be in control of what you drink, and how much you drink. No matter who you are and where you’re traveling to, there is always a risk of encountering ill-intentioned people. Men, women - watch what you’re drinking! Order your own drinks, watch your drinks be made/poured, and don’t leave your drink unattended. And also know your limits, because even one extra drink beyond your personal limit can inhibit your decision making, which is never ideal when you’re in an unfamiliar setting. It’s a 101 safety rule, but it is always worth mentioning to anyone who is traveling. 4. Lie It’s OK to lie — we won’t tell! Sometimes, you just gotta roll with a tiny lie to shoo away any unwanted interactions. For the sake of your safety, don’t feel bad if you need to lie and tell someone that you’re waiting for a friend, girlfriend, boyfriend, etc., - even if there is no actual friend you’re waiting for. These tiny lies can sometimes protect and empower you to not feel like you need to give a stranger your attention or information. 5. Research Your Destination It’s impossible to really “know” any new area you’re visiting for the first time, but it doesn’t hurt to research it beforehand. Research the different neighborhoods, try to memorize the name of a shop or two, and try to read up on the local culture. This will help you blend in and navigate the region more seamlessly, which will also reduce your chances of sticking out like a sore thumb and becoming a target for scammers and sketchy people. 6. Be Present Put down your phone and let go of the distractions that limit you from using all of your senses to observe and absorb the places you’re traveling through. When you’re present, you’re less likely to get lost and more likely to be aware of all of your surroundings. A simple way to check if you’re being “present”? Ask yourself if you’re engaging all of your senses. Are you taking in the aromas? Are you observing the architecture and noticing the names of shops and streets? Are you listening to the local sounds? 7. Be Respectful of Local Culture We encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with the local culture and norms beforehand. Some countries require certain attire for women and men, and it’s important to be respectful of those rules and to adhere to them as necessary. 8. Feel Confident! No matter where you go, there will always be risks. But you can feel confident knowing that many before you have traveled there, and many after you will travel there too! Though it is true that women tend to be more vulnerable while traveling than men, there is a lot you can do to minimize your vulnerability and travel more confidently. 🌎 Ready to start traveling the world? Check out FTLO's upcoming trips for young professionals! Meet other young, like-minded travelers and explore some of the most beautiful regions of the world. #ftlo #fortheloveoftravel

We know our FTLO alum are pretty cool, but we wanted to share how cool. That's why we put together the FTLO Alum Series: Travel + Tell, where our alumni dish out the deets of their travel experiences with FTLO – the good, the wild and the amazing! Read on to see what these millennial movers and shakers are doing as they explore the world with a new group of friends. #FTLOALUM: Kat McKibben Photo Cred: Courtesy of Kat McKibben FTLO Trips: Paris & Bordeaux, 2017 Barcelona & South of France, 2018 Tuscany & Rome, 2018 Greek Islands, 2019 Current City: Washington D.C. Age: 36 Profession: Sr. Director, Talent & Culture @POLITICO Horoscope sign: Aquarius FTLO, Travel + Tell ✈️ I love to travel because... "As an HR Director at a media company focused on politics & policy, I often find myself stuck in the DC bubble. Travel is a way to expand my horizons both literally and figuratively. While traveling with FTLO, I’ve had the chance to engage with people of diverse backgrounds and life experiences. The best unexpected outcome of travel has been more vivid dreams, as if I now have an expanded catalog of landscapes." ✨ Memorable Moments... 🇬🇷 Boat day in Milos, Greece: "We anchored in a quiet cove and kicked off a party with swan floats, fizzy drinks, and solid dance music. At one point, I wandered from the group and found a quiet spot between the coves. I couldn’t see or hear another human being. Alone with the sound of the ocean, I felt complete serenity. I often think back to this moment when I am experiencing stress or anxiety." 🍜 Best Food Experiences... "All the red wine in each country, but the best was in France." "Eggplant in Greece, no matter how it was cooked, was always my favorite dish. Still working on trying to replicate the recipes back home!" 🌎 This travel experience was different for me because... "I never knew how much I would love traveling with strangers. FTLO does an amazing job of making sure everyone has a great time, no matter what travel hiccups are encountered. Friends or partners tend to be like-minded which can keep us in our comfort zone while traveling. There is nothing like seeing new experiences through the eyes of strangers turned lifelong friends." 📍 Recommendations: "Pack lightly but don’t forget your Dramamine and Imodium." "Pet all the doggos you encounter! The hardest part of traveling is leaving behind my beloved pugs. Fortunately, I got to meet the elegant Champagne-sipping puppers of France, truffle hunting doggos of Italy, and the wild floofer kittens of Greece." 🐾 💙 Next FTLO Trip I have my eyes on... Mexico City Ireland Jordan Vietnam 💡 Want to travel with FTLO? My advice... "You only regret the trips you don’t take. I not only had amazing experiences, but I made some wonderful new friends. I now have a place to stay with new friends I’ve met on my FTLO trips in LA, NY, Philly, Texas, Louisiana, Chicago, Miami, Barcelona, and Australia." Check out FTLO trips Kat has been on (and is booked for!) to Mexico, South Africa, Morocco and Vietnam, and more!

If your new year’s resolutions revolve around self-improvement and a different approach to life, then there are many reasons why traveling more should be your top resolution for 2020. As we enter a new decade, we would all do well to be more open, compassionate, proactive about our mental and physical health, and authentic in our pursuit of the things that make us happy. Travel naturally aids the development of all of the above. Here are some of the most important reasons why traveling more should be your top resolution for 2020. 1. Break away from monotony. There is more to life than a work-eat-sleep cycle, and it lies just beyond your routine. When you travel more, you realize that these arguably important routines you’ve set for yourself should take a back seat every once in a while and act more as guidelines, rather than the dictators of your life. 2. Avoid burnout. Whether you’re challenging your body through outdoor activities, or feeding your soul with new scenery, your mental and physical health will both benefit from travel. In fact, studies have shown that travel “isn’t just an indulgence” —it actually has healing effects and can reduce your risk of developing certain mental and physical health problems. So go on, add travel to your self-care list! 3. Discover more. There are more than 200 countries and cultures around the world, many of which you’ve maybe never even heard of! What are you waiting for? Book a flight and get to know your world. Fall in love with beautiful places, meet new friends to vibe with, and treat your palette to new cuisines from all around the world. 4. Build confidence. A natural outcome of traveling is building a better sense of self and with that, greater confidence. Through travel you get to become the version of you that you’ve always wanted to be: more curious, resourceful, friendly, independent and in the process, more knowledgeable of the world. 5. Meet new people. Get to know people from different countries, cultures and backgrounds and you’ll find that there are always new friends to be made, wherever you go. 6. Think outside the box and dream bigger. Travel is a natural catalyst of creativity and big ideas. When you’re exposed to more people’s lifestyles, cultures, cuisines, problems, hobbies, etc., you’re more likely to have several “aha!” moments that spur a global mindset and help you to dream bigger. Several studies have found a positive correlation between travel and creativity as your senses are heightened and your brain creates new avenues of thinking and processing. 7. There are more resources to travel than ever before. Never, ever has it been easier to find and book a trip to any part of the world within a few minutes. You’ve got the Internet and all of its travel resources (like Kayak, Hopper and us!) to help you make your travel goals come true. We would love to have you join us on an FTLO trip! 8. Travel while you’re young. The best time to travel is now, when you have the freedom to do what you want and make decisions based solely on yourself and your dreams. The longer you wait, the more responsibilities you’ll have as an adult and the tougher it will be to be intentional about traveling and achieving your goals. 9. It’s the gift (to yourself) that keeps on giving. Even years after you’ve traveled to a new country, you’ll still find yourself thinking back on the fun memories you created. You might even be inspired to travel again. Travel is truly the gift that keeps on giving. When you realize how much of the world you still haven’t experienced, the possibilities feel endless. And what more could you ask for in the new year than a sea of endless possibility? Come join FTLO for a trip of a lifetime and make 2020 your best travel year yet!

This year, we cruised through the Greek Islands, trekked the deserts of Morocco, and sipped limoncello on the coast of Italy; we marveled the ancient structures of Rome, wandered the colorful streets of Colombia and chased the northern lights in Lapland. In other words...we had a blast! We're turning it up a notch in 2020 and adding new trips that will blow your mind. Amazing new cultures, top bucket list destinations and new adventures - unlike any you've had before. Here's a brief recap on what we had going on this year and what you can look forward to in 2020. See you in the new year! A recap... Most of southern Italy is still relatively un-touristed, giving you an authentic experience of Italian life in places like Lecce, Otranto, and Matera. The areas that are popular, like Capri, Positano, and Sorrento, are so for a reason - they're unbelievably beautiful with great food and constant sunshine. (Browse this trip here!) ​Nice, the queen of the French Riviera, hosts magnificent architecture, a charming old town, and miles of prime, seafront real estate. Having origins that date back to 350 BC, its beauty has attracted sun-seekers for centuries who have come to soak up the glorious Mediterranean lifestyle. ​ Barcelona needs no introduction - admiration of its architecture, lifestyle, food, and nightlife are well documented and it proudly lives up to the hype. If you haven't been, you must. And if you have, we already know you're dying to go back. (Browse this trip here!) ​Cartagena is a major port city on Colombia's beautiful Caribbean coast. This is a vacation spot unlike any other. Cartagena has a little bit of everything: breathtaking beaches, volcanos, snow-capped mountains, extensive cultural history, a thriving theater and art scene and some of the most incredible food. The mix of new and old makes Cartagena the perfect spot to improve relax as you wander the cobblestone streets of the 16th century during the day, and watch the sun set over the modern skyline by night. (Browse this trip here!) Mix stunning scenery, laid back vibes, and delicious food, then add sunshine, sailboats, and some fun-loving new friends and you have the best vacation ever. We start off in Milos, known for it's sunning scenery and otherworldly rock formations. Then head to Santorini, by far the most popular and well known island of Greece, but worth a stop to check out it's multi-colored cliffs, famous blue and white Cycladic houses, and spectacular sunsets. End the trip in Paros, located at the heart of the Cyclades and said to be what Mykonos was like ten years ago before being taken over by cruise ships. It is best known for its golden sand beaches, amazing food, and fun nightlife. (Browse this trip here!) This is a once-in-a-lifetime trip like no other. You'll trek to find the northern lights, float in pools of ice, cuddle huskies, sleep in glass igloos, snowmobile through Swedish forests, and make friends for life in this winter wonderland. ​This trip is a mix of fun, active experiences during the day and getting to know your travel buddies over hot toddies in local pubs at night (after your daily sauna, of course). (Browse this trip here!) We've curated a foodie-inspired trip to one of the hottest culinary scenes in the world - Mexico City. This trip will spend four days exploring the intricate and varied flavors of Mexican cuisine as well as the vibrant restaurant and craft cocktail scene blossoming in this cosmopolitan city. From gourmet restaurants to bustling street food markets, this trip will fill your belly and your soul with the flavors of Mexico. (Browse this trip here!) Spend nine days discovering the enchanting land of Morocco with a group of like-minded explorers. Every step of this trip is packed with adventure and life-changing experiences. You'll ride camels through the Sahara desert, experience the sights and sounds of a Moroccan bazaar, and learn about this fascinating culture. (Browse this trip here!) As a region, Scandinavia offers a winning combination of delicious food, cool locals, intriguing architecture, progressive thought, phenomenal shopping, and modern design. Located in in northern Europe, Scandinavia is traditionally made up of Norway, Denmark and Sweden, all three of which consistently rank as the happiest countries in the world, with Denmark currently being number one. According to National Geographic, this is in thanks to "an abundance of free public services, such as health care and education" as well as a strong sense of community. (Browse this trip here!) South Africa is an amazing country, filled with a variety of adrenaline-fueled activities, cultural learning experiences, and tons of exotic wildlife- making it a top travel destination for adventurous jetsetters. Spend eleven days exploring the majestic regions of South Africa - Greater Kruger and Cape Town. Between the early mornings on safari and late nights in Cape Town, you will 100% fall in love with this incredible country. (Browse this trip here!) Italy is a place like no other. The country's physical beauty is matched in magnificence by its delectable cuisine, its animated natives, and its fascinating history. ​ Come experience the cultural mecca that inspires greatness in literature, art and film. We take you from a hilltop town in the middle of Tuscany, surrounded by rolling hills and famous vineyards, through the elegance and richness of Florence, and finally to the eternal city, Rome (once capital of the world, and now a vibrant modern metro, built up around 2,500+ years of history.) (Browse this trip here!) Vietnam is high on many people's bucket lists... and for good reason. The country's stunning landscapes, friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and unique culture make for an amazing experience you're unlikely to forget. On this trip, we start off in a smaller village where we'll learn about Vietnam and get to know some of the local customs. From there, we'll head to the more remote parts of the country - Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay - for a glimpse of local life and some amazing natural landscapes. The trip ends in the bustling capital, Hanoi, a rich cultural center filled with fantastic food, a buzzy local social scene, and hundreds of cute shops for you to pick up souvenirs to bring back home. (Browse this trip here!) New for 2020... With days full of sunshine and sparking blue waters, Croatia used to be one of Europe's best kept secrets. However now, it is the place to be with beautiful islands, charming medieval towns, local vineyards and superb seafood cuisine. If you are looking for an adventure with style and relaxation, this is the country for you! (Take a peek here!) Jordan's unique culture, surreal landscapes, welcoming people, and adventurous nature makes for an unforgettable trip. On this excursion to the Middle East, you can expect to encounter nature at its finest, with expanses of beautiful desert, natural reserves, and ancient monuments and ruins in the midst of it all. For seven days you’ll move through Jordan’s deserts and dunes, camp under starry skies, explore ancient ruins, get to witness amazing sunsets over the desert, float in the dead sea, and hike through Jordan’s extraordinary canyons. (Take a peek here!) Japan is a highly modern and innovative country, rooted in ancient traditions and culture. For first-time visitors, Japan can be a total culture shock, full of the quirky, the wonderful, and the unusual everywhere you go. This trip will take you from the traditional parts of Japan’s more remote regions to the fast-paced and futuristic city of Tokyo. Throughout the trip, you’ll try some of Japan’s authentically prepared cuisine that will delight your palette and expand your horizons. (Take a peek here!) Ireland is defined by its natural beauty, warm and welcoming people, fun environment, and of course, rich culture and history. This European trip is a bit shorter than others and will take you through Ireland’s popular cities of Dublin and Galway, and through its lovely countryside and Atlantic Coast. You’ll get to take in some of the most dramatic and gorgeous views in the world (enter, Cliffs of Moher!), and you’ll get to spend time mingling with locals, sharing stories, and enjoying beers as you listen to street performers in some of the youngest and hippest spots of Dublin and Galway. (Take a peek here!) Come adventure through Costa Rica's incredible jungles and beaches, where you'll encounter stunning wildlife, go for morning surfs, canyon through rivers and down waterfalls, and relax in natural hot springs. ​ Embrace the pura vida! (Stay tuned for this one...it's gonna be awesome ;)) ...and more trips to come! Interested in traveling with FTLO? See what we're all about.

We know our FTLO alum are pretty cool, but we wanted to share how cool. That's why we put together the FTLO Alum Series: Travel + Tell, where our alumni dish out the deets of their travel experiences with FTLO – the good, the wild and the amazing! Read on to see what these millennial movers and shakers are doing as they explore the world with a new group of friends. #FTLOALUM: Nicole Miceli Photo Cred: Courtesy of Nicole Miceli on the FTLO Tuscany/Rome trip. FTLO Trips: Tuscany & Rome 2019 Current City: Chicago, IL Age: 34 Profession: Sales Horoscope sign: Virgo Photo Cred: Courtesy of Nicole Miceli on the FTLO Tuscany/Rome trip. FTLO, Travel + Tell ✈️ I love to travel because... "I was born and raised in the Chicago area and was fortunate enough to have a family that was able to travel to a lot of places when we were young. I think this is what helped develop my love for traveling. I love traveling because it really opens your eyes to the huge world that is out there and the many different cultures that you can experience through travel. I think sometimes we get so caught up in life that we forget to take a moment to appreciate what's around us and I think traveling is a great way to help remind people to stop and smell the roses." ✨ Memorable Moments... 🇮🇹 Italy: "The truffle hunt and breakfast was a great part of the trip. Definitely a super unique experience! It was really interesting to hear about how they train the dogs to hunt truffles and even heartwarming hearing the family brag about having the top truffle hunting dog in the Tuscany region. Follow that with an amazingly fresh breakfast everything topped with truffles, of course!" 🍜 Best Food Experiences... "I happened to be on this trip over my birthday, and our group leader put together this amazing group dinner for us at La Mandragola in San Gimignano. I had the wild boar ribbon pasta and this delicious chocolate moose dessert. We also had a few bottles of a local Chianti Capanneto! The night was perfect and the food was really good!" 🌎 This travel experience was different for me because... "This was my first international solo trip and my first trip with FTLO which is what makes the trip so different. Solo travel gave me more of an appreciation of the area I was in because I could navigate it at my own pace and really focus on the things that interested me the most. It also gave me the confidence I needed to prove to myself that I can travel solo and still have an amazing time!" 📍 Recommendations "Going in September was a great time of year, the weather was perfect, still warm so you can pack light. All you need to make sure that you have is a pair of good shoes (there's a lot of walking) and a jacket, just in case the temps drop a little at night." "...Also, EAT ALL OF THE GELATO! :)" 💙 Next FTLO Trip I have my eyes on... The Spain & South of France Trip or the new Croatia Trip! 💡 Want to travel with FTLO? My advice... "Just book the trip! Stop agonizing over if you should do it or not...you will not regret the adventure that you’re about to embark on!" Check out FTLO trips Nicole has been on (and is looking forward to!) to Tuscany & Rome, Lapland, Mexico, South Africa, Morocco, Vietnam, Croatia (NEW!), and more. Are you an FTLO Alum? Share your story on the blog! Shoot us a message or send us a DM on Instagram for details.

This was an amazing year of travel, as we added more trips than ever! Here are 13 travel memes that summed up our 2019. If you've ever traveled in your life, you can relate. 1. Early bird gets the worm. 2. Bored? Spend $50 on pretty candies at the gift shop. 3. Ugh, tough. 4. Sorry, I'm working on something *very* important. 5. I need *at least* three days to recover from the fun. 6. And my parents really like him. 7. This assignment can wait. 8. I repeat: I'll have the chicken parm and the linguine. 9. Details later! 10. Ask for forgiveness - not permission. 11. Now it's my friends waiting for me to come back from traveling. 12. So far, just some pointy tweezers. 13. Time to debut these yellow velvet pants I got on sale last year. Can't relate? Come travel with us! Check out FTLO's upcoming group trips for young professionals to amazing destinations all around the world. See you in 2020!