Travel Notices

The Friendly Planet Newsletter

Published May 3, 2025
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Every journey leaves a mark—but some leave love letters. From sunset safaris to cobblestone alleys in faraway cities, our travelers have returned home with hearts full and stories worth sharing. These 5-star reviews are more than just kind words—they’re glimpses into life-changing moments made possible by our tours. Ready to see what all the love is about?
 
 
Star
 
"The trip was thoughtfully and skillfully planned and executed for us! The complete package or paying one price for a whole adventure speaks volumes!! We had an AWESOME EXPERIENCE! I would definitely travel again through Friendly Planet!! So much fun!! All A++++"
 
— Tanda, A Taste of Thailand
 
 
 
Star
 
"The excursions were incredibly enlightening. Lazaro has a tremendous amount of knowledge on thru history of Cuba and answered all of our questions. Jose and Andres as our hostel hosts were tremendous. Every recommendation from them was an absolute must! It was such an authentic experience - and two days felt like a week because it was so full. Absolutely loved every minute of this and would highly recommend this to anyone who has Cuba on their bucket list!"
 
— Kendryck, Havana Express
 
 
 
Star
 
"Very well organized and led by one of the best general tour guides we've every had. Very satisfying to see and learn about iconic animals up close, including tortoises, penguins, sea lions and blue-footed boobies. Also enjoyed our short "Quito extension" that introduced the city and surrounding area. Excellent accommodations and overall hospitality."
 
 
 
 
Star
 
"What an amazing experience! Kenya safari express is the way to go if you don’t have a ton of time and want to maximize safari time. It was a great price and well worth the money!"
 
— Sara, Kenya Safari Express
 
 
 
Star
 
"Every aspect was excellent. The people of Vietnam & Cambodia are so receptive to American visitors. Historical sites and cultural highlights...once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Local tour guides hired by Friendly Planet were top-notch: enthusiastic about sharing their expertise and curious to know our impressions...Featured visits to local handmade, some home-based businesses, plus NGOs that train and employ vulnerable populations...amazing!"
 
— Debra, Best of Vietnam & Cambodia
 
 
 
Kenya Safari Express
 
 
The perfect taste of Kenya: Nairobi, plus a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, a game drive in Hell's Gate & 3 game drives in Masai Mara
 
FROM
 
FROM
 
$3549
  
$2649
  
7
W/ FLIGHTS
TOUR ONLY
DAYS
per person, double occupancy*
 
SEE THIS PACKAGE
 
 
Galápagos Islands Adventure
 
 
Explore the flora, fauna & spectacular scenery of two biodiverse Galápagos Islands: Santa Cruz & Isabela, with an extra night on Isabela! Optional extension to Quito
 
FROM
 
FROM
 
$3899
  
$3299
  
8
W/ FLIGHTS
TOUR ONLY
DAYS
per person, double occupancy*
 
SEE THIS PACKAGE
 
 
A Taste of Thailand
 
 
The humming capital of Bangkok, historic Kanchanaburi & the River Kwai, plus ancient Ayutthaya; optional extensions to Angkor Wat & Phuket
 
FROM
 
FROM
 
$2299
  
$1499
  
10
W/ FLIGHTS
TOUR ONLY
DAYS
per person, double occupancy*
 
SEE THIS PACKAGE
 
 
A Taste of Vietnam
 
 
Bustling Ho Chi Minh City, picturesque colonial Hoi An, world-heritage Halong Bay & the northern capital of Hanoi; optional extension to Bangkok
 
FROM
 
FROM
 
$2449
  
$1649
  
10
W/ FLIGHTS
TOUR ONLY
DAYS
per person, double occupancy*
 
SEE THIS PACKAGE
 
 
Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Rainforests & Beaches
 
 
The capital San José, spectacular Arenal and its volcano, 3 relaxing days in Playa Hermosa; travel on your own with flights & hotel included. Optional pre-tour to Tortuguero.
 
FROM
 
FROM
 
$2099
  
$1599
  
7
W/ FLIGHTS
TOUR ONLY
DAYS
per person, double occupancy*
 
SEE THIS PACKAGE
 
 
Best of Egypt & Nile Cruise
 
 
Timeless Cairo & the Pyramids, plus a Nile cruise through the temples & history of Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo & Aswan; optional extension to Petra
 
FROM
 
$3949
  
11
W/ FLIGHTS
DAYS
per person, double occupancy*
 
SEE THIS PACKAGE
 
 
Authentic Havana
 
 
Take in the heart & soul of this colorful & cultural island: Havana, Cojimar, Guanabacoa & Lawton
 
FROM
 
FROM
 
$2199
  
$1799
  
5
W/ FLIGHTS
TOUR ONLY
DAYS
per person, double occupancy, during sale*
 
SEE THIS PACKAGE
 
 
A Taste of India Summer Special
 
 
Unbeatable price for a bucket list journey: Savor India's Golden Triangle, from Delhi & Agra to the Taj Mahal & Jaipur; plus Nepal optional extension
 
FROM
 
$1499
  
8
W/ FLIGHTS
DAYS
per person, double occupancy*
 
SEE THIS PACKAGE
 
 
* Advertised prices may include an "Instant Savings" discount and/or sale discount, available for a limited time. Prices reflect these discounts. Advertised prices are per person, based on double occupancy; single occupancy rooms may be available for an additional charge. Advertised prices are the best available based on the least expensive travel dates, departure city, and other options, and do not include optional excursions or other optional items. Your total price will vary based upon the dates, flights, and other options you select during the booking process. For packages including flights, prices include Airline Taxes, Fees & Sept. 11th Security Fee, but do not include excess baggage fees or advance seat reservations. Prices and availability subject to change. More about our prices.

†† $199 deposit available on select packages. Valid for new bookings only. Changes to your package, departure date, or flights may require an increased deposit. If you select our optional travel protection plan, the premium will be added to your deposit. See additional terms & conditions.

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