Yellowstone Vacation Packages

Cycling Yellowstone-Tetons

Sunday, July 1, 2012 by Kasey Austin

To help you get inspired to bike it up this summer, I thought I’d share with you some of my past biking adventures that you can experience yourself by jumping on one of our cycling tours in the Yellowstone-Tetons area! Here we go!

Antelope Flats

As the name implies, this bike ride is pretty darn flat which allows you to take in the scenery AND the wildlife as you coast around this back road in Grand Teton National Park.  I’ve seen everything on this ride: moose, bison, pronghorn, fox, coyote – I can almost guarantee that you will see something if you keep your eyes on your surroundings (and the road of course!!) You might even run into a bison jam on the road itself! Your ride ends at the famous and historic T.A. Moulton Barn, so if you’re a photographer, bring your camera!!

Yellowstone-Tetons Adventure

Grand Prismatic Trail

This flat gravel trail takes you the “back way” around the third largest hot spring in the world! Your guides will take you to the absolute best spot to view this colorful hot spring that will leave you awed and amazed. Plus, you get to ride through an area that was burned in the Yellowstone fires of 1988. Now this section of burned area is a beautiful bright green, filled with lodgepole pines as far as the eye can see, with the occasional ghost tree still standing and charred from those fires of nearly 25 years ago!

Yellowstone-Tetons Adventure

Wilson-Teton Village Bike Path

Beginning in the sleepy town of Wilson at the base of the Teton Pass, you’ll cycle from the local park, past the little red school house to a bike trail that passes horse pastures filled with daisies and lupine. From this path, you get a pretty neat view of the ski hill as you bike to the base of the world-renowned Jackson Hole ski resort. Keep an eye out as you cross over the creeks – you just might glimpse a moose’s antlers peeking out from the willows.

Yellowstone-Tetons Adventure

Teton Bike Path

The town of Jackson and the nearby valley (Jackson Hole) are an absolute outdoor Mecca. To keep up with the region’s image of being the ultimate outdoor playground, construction crews are working every summer on improving the valley’s bike paths and extending them from the town and beyond. Cycling on one of these paths directly beneath the towering Tetons is something you will never forget. The mountain range will seem to shift as you move along, sending illusions through your mind. That mountain you thought was the Grand Teton might actually be Teewinot or Mt. Owen! Your ride takes you to Jenny Lake, where the water is so clear you can see the trout swimming in the sparkling depths.

If these bike rides sound tantalizing to you, then you will want to check out our Yellowstone Vacation Packages to plan your next trip! If anything, I hope I can inspire you to grab that old bike in the garage, pump up the air in the tires, and get out for a summer ride on the bike path nearest to you!

See you on the trails,

 

Kasey Austin

Two Wheels is All You Need!

Friday, May 18, 2012 by Mindy Vanderhoof

 

Is there any better way of experiencing a place than cycling the back roads of a destination? I think not! 

Making your way to Old Faithful Geyser via bike will surely be a memorable part of your Yellowstone National Park vacations.  Cruising the rolling hills of California’s Wine Country, or the sea side trails of the San Juan Islands add an adventurous element to your trip that shouldn’t be missed.  Feeling the breeze on your face as you explore the natural wonders of not only our domestic destinations, but all across the globe, really helps give you a sense of peace and place as you travel.

Biking for vacation can seem overwhelming if you haven't done it before, but once you are on that seat, participating in all the elements around you, I promise, you will soon realize there is nothing better! Imagine pedaling your way through the small villages of Europe, coasting down hills to the salt pans of Peru, or biking the Michelson Trail in South Dakota.  Why not trade your 4 wheels in for 2 and see where it takes you! With so much to see and do I hope you will try incorporating biking into your future adventure vacation packages.

 

Your Friendly Adventure Consultant,

 

Mindy Vanderhoof

Heart Pumping Adventure Vacations to Yellowstone

Wednesday, April 4, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Plan your family adventure vacation with Austin-Lehman on our all-inclusive package where you indulge in heart pumping adventure with your family. We take care of your safety while you break all barriers to face your fears and prove yourself courageous in front of your kids.

The trip is all the more rewarding when you watch your kids do things that you never imagined them doing before. Explore Yellowstone Park and the amazing natural wonders like numerous geysers, mud pots, thundering waterfalls and serene lakes. Walk on the unexplored path of the forest off the main road and watch wild animals like grizzly bears, bison, elk and wolves in their natural abode.

Visit Old Faithful, the oldest geyser of the Yellowstone National Park, which splashes boiling water up to 160 feet high. Hiking vacations with the entire family provide a great memorable experience. Being able to enjoy crisp, clean air while climbing rugged hilltops brings inspiration to everyone that participates. With hiking options for every level from beginners to professionals, everyone can enjoy the simply breath taking views that hiking through the Park provide. The experience of a holiday with our adventures will give you memories to cherish a lifetime.
 

Family Fun in Wyoming

Wednesday, April 4, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Family adventure vacations are double the fun with our adventure trips to Grand Teton and Yellowstone.  These national parks are wonderful playgrounds for the young and old alike.   Antelope Flats is great area to bike with family.  The flat land makes it easy to bike leisurely while taking in the scenic views of the Teton mountain range.  

While there, you’ll observe bison and antelopes grazing the fields. Hiking vacations really add to the adventure, and with plenty of trails to choose from, Grand Teton National Park makes a six day vacation way too short. The Jackson Lake area also offers trails for different levels of experience. All trails have scenic routes so everyone will have an enjoyable time.  Those who enjoy water based activities will definitely want to try kayaking in the calm waters of Jackson Lake.  Adventure seekers can conquer the rapids of the Snake River.  And after a full day of being on the water, relieve your tired muscles at the Teton Mountain Lodge Spa.

While on this vacation in the Wyoming area, you’ll also want to take some time to explore Yellowstone Park. Hiking trails lead to Storm Point where kids will enjoy spotting marmots and other forest critters may lurking amidst forest trees and the grasslands. Rocky promontories overlook Yellowstone Lake, and a visit to the Grand Prismatic Spring will enthrall everyone with its vivid colors.  

Have a wonderful Wyoming trip with the family by reviewing our adventure vacation packages available in our online travel catalog.
 

Experience the Great Outdoors in Montana

Tuesday, April 3, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman Adventures Montana

Night skies filled with stars, towering trees, majestic wildlife and clean, brisk air are closer than you think. Yellowstone National Park vacation packages can prove it.

Montana vacations provide an impeccable way to explore a beautiful place untouched by nature with majestic wildlife roaming freely in their beloved home. Explorers who appreciate the water can experience fishing, kayaking or rafting in the spectacular white water of the Yellowstone River. Animal lovers will love looking out for elk, bison, bears and eagles.

Kids will enjoy snacking on delicious fruit kebabs on the lovely shore of a glacial stream in Beehive Basin, where they can dip their feet in an alpine lake surrounded by wildflower studded hillsides. If you dare, raft the Yellowstone River, the longest free-flowing river in North America. To unleash your inner cowboy, saddle up for a gentle horseback ride up Pine Creek to the Absaroka Mountains and enjoy awe inspiring scenery unlike anything else in the world.  

Austin Lehman adventures are the perfect choice for families looking to create lasting memories with each other. Plan your family’s trip to Yellowstone Park this year by visiting our online catalog to learn more about all of the activities available in our vacation travel itineraries. Get ready for the vacation of a lifetime.
 

Start the Summer Right with Adventure Vacations to Yellowstone

Sunday, April 1, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman Adventures Yellowstone

There’s no better time to see Yellowstone National Park than well…just about any time. Yellowstone Park is one of those destinations that offer an incredible adventure vacation any time of year. Each season in the park provides a unique experience for travelers.


As you might imagine, the busy time of the year is in the summer between June and September with the busiest months being July and August. Of course, our adventure vacation packages bring our guests to backcountry locations where crowds are few so that the magnificence of the landscapes and unique natural features can be fully appreciated.

An abundance of wildflowers greet visitors in June and July, and June, in particular, brings plenty of wildlife for travelers to see and snap photos. In September the fall flowers are in bloom and the elk come calling their mates. The winter brings an abundance of snow along with opportunities to snowshoe and glide through the trail on snowmobile.

Our Montana vacations offer summer travel times to Yellowstone to experience all the nature and wildlife that this season brings. We also have a five day wintertime journey in February for those ready to hit the scenic slopes with cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and of course, no winter adventure is complete without ice skates and snow mobiles too!

Call today or visit our website to learn more about visiting Montana and Yellowstone this year.
 

Custom Adventure Vacations to Make Fit Your Style

Saturday, March 31, 2012 by Tour Support Team

While we offer a large selection of adventure vacations to destinations around the world, there are some adventurers who want to add a little customization to their travel itineraries. That’s why our custom adventure trips can be just the ticket to the vacation of a lifetime for you, your family or group.

For over 20 years we’ve been designing custom itineraries for couples adventures, honeymoons, reunions and family adventure vacations. Whether you want to adventure to the tulip fields of Holland or experience a whitewater rafting adventure down the Yellowstone Park River, we can help put the accommodations, dining and activities together to make your trip or event really special.

All we need to design a complete custom vacation package is information about what you and your group envision as the ideal vacation spot and a list of activities you all enjoy. With just that information, we can put together a week or two weeks of fun adventure for everyone.

So if you’re dreaming of a tropical Hawaiian paradise or a family reunion in Zion National Park, we can make it happen. It’s best to start planning your adventure tours early to ensure that everyone has enough time to schedule vacation time around the custom itinerary. Give us a call at (800) 575-1540 to learn more or request our travel catalog.
 

Go Big Sky with Our Montana Vacations

Tuesday, March 13, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman Adventures

Austin-Lehman offers the most exciting adventure vacation packages for adventure lovers. Go wild on Montana vacations and explore the Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, Big Sky and Paradise valley; all on one trip. Explore the picturesque backcountry of Yellowstone hiking through the stream side trails and along side vibrant flora and fauna of the park. Watch grizzly bear playing around with its cubs in the forest and catch a glimpse of many other wild animals like wolves, bison, elk, bald eagle etc. Marvel at nature’s wonders as you come across numerous mud pots, geysers, hot springs, cascading waterfalls and snow- capped mountains. Raft in the white waters of Flatbed River and its various branches around Glacier National park and explore the spectacular scenery of the park and its nearby villages. A large part of the river is quite mellower for the beginner rafters though that does not make it any less exciting.

Visit the cowboy ranch with herds of buffalos and horses roaming around and relax on a hammock or go fishing in any nearby river. Big Sky is a huge attraction for skiing lovers. Go for snowboarding and cross country skiing in snow capped mountain range spread over acres of land. Experience the mystic nature of awe- inspiring valleys like Paradise valley, Gallatin Valley and Flathead valley. Stroll through the dense forests and look for many exotic species of birds on the trees.
 

Plan a Family Adventure Vacation Getaway to Yellowstone National Park

Tuesday, March 13, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman Adventures

Surprise your family by planning an adventure trip to Yellowstone National ParkFamily adventure vacations are a great way to spend quality time with your kids and to indulge in loads of fun and entertainment. The journey through the park is a truly touching experience for both adults and kids equally.

The experience of breathing fresh air while hiking into Yellowstone’s backcountry is overwhelming. Before starting the hike, kids can participate in the registering as “junior rangers.” The whole family will never forget the excitement of watching geysers erupting right in front of everyone with splashing, steaming hot water spraying in all directions. The park is dotted with numerous mud pots, geysers, beautiful lakes, and of course, no one will want to miss Old Faithful. Take the off track path into the forest, and discover wild animals like bison, wolf, grizzly bear, moose and elk just as they are in their natural abode. It is an amazing experience watching a mama bear cuddling and rolling with her babies….from a distance of course.   Raft in the Yellowstone River. Play in the blue green waters of the lakes under thundering waterfalls. There are paths to hike that reach behind the waterfall so that you can jump in the water below. Just be careful not to allow the water current flow to sweep you away! Children love seeing their parents reveal a little of their own child like revelry in nature while doing things outside of normal daily activities while back at home. The quality time spent with each other as a family is totally worthwhile, and an experience that will live on with your children forever.

Visit us online or call our 24 hour support line to learn more about Yellowstone vacation packages for your family.
 

Expect a Little Romance and Adventure in Yellowstone National Park

Tuesday, March 13, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman adventures take you on a journey that redefines style of vacations. Don’t just go on a relaxing trip, but mix it with some adventure in true Austin-Lehman style. Adventure vacations for couples are tailor made for small groups. Travel to Big Sky from Bozeman and ski on the biggest cross- country skiing resort in America. Winter makes the already beautiful landscapes of Big Sky even more wonderful. The breathtaking scenery, fresh powder and slopes of Big Sky are simply mesmerizing. Professional staff is available to give you a quick lesson and help you to go snowboarding right from your front door. Explore the magnificent landmarks and learn about the rich history of Yellowstone National Park while relaxing on a snowmobile.

Sit and relax on a tram trip and marvel at the snow capped scenery of Yellowstone Park and amazing mountain ranges filled with soft snowy powder all around you. Your adventure trip is not complete without going on a dogsled. Discover the enchanting Moonlight Basin and challenge yourself by taking reins of the dogsled in your hands. Cruise through the fresh snow and explore the backcountry of Yellowstone that is mostly unknown by tourists. Savor a glass of wine and cheese while you take in the view of Big Sky while at Ryan Turner Photography Gallery.

Learn more about our Yellowstone National Park vacation packages by giving us a call at 800.575.1540.
 

Rediscover Nature at Yellowstone National Park

Tuesday, March 6, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman Adventures Yellowstone

Thundering waterfalls, soaring trees and majestic wildlife surround you at Montana’s spectacular Yellowstone National Park. If you’re ready to unleash your wild side, take advantage of Austin Lehman’s Yellowstone National Park Vacation Packages and rediscover nature at its finest.

From elks, eagles and bison to enchanting waterfalls and erupting geysers, Yellowstone Park is a photographer’s and adventurer’s dream. Whether you’re looking for camping, hiking, star gazing or the delightful package of all three, adventure trips with Austin Lehman have you covered.

Montana vacations will not disappoint if you’re looking for an assortment of enjoyable outdoor activities. Go rafting down the glorious Yellowstone River for the adrenaline rush of a lifetime. Then, take a simple moment to just inhale the delicious aroma of clean, fresh air and pine and delight in the grandiose nature and tranquility that surrounds you.

When it’s time to relax, enjoy a soothing dip in a natural hot spring and search the starry sky for the constellations you learned about as a kid, before enjoying a scrumptious dinner at your comfortable accommodation. Call today to schedule your well-deserved adventure with Austin Lehman Adventures. A trip to Montana is sure to satisfy even the pickiest adventurer.  
 

Unleash Your Wild Side in Montana

Thursday, February 23, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Montana Adventurer

For those looking for a visit to Big Sky Country, Austin Lehman Adventures has you covered with perfect Montana adventure vacation packages.

Unexplored trails, mountains and wildlife surround you as you embark on your adventure. Animals outnumber people. Some of the cleanest air in the country can be inhaled as you hike one of the 70 plus named snow-capped mountain ranges. Rivers are filled with a fresh abundance of trout. Travelers will discover nature at its finest.

For those who choose to visit during the winter, skiing classes are offered, and geysers steam out of the snow-covered ground. It is as clear as the star-studded sky, which is why Montana is one of the best Adventure Trips out there.

See one of America’s beloved national parks and take one of our Yellowstone Tours.  Bike and hike through some of the most beautiful land on Earth.

When you’re ready to relax, take a dip in a peaceful natural hot spring and soak your stresses away. While your senses are submerged in the delicious scent of clean, fresh air and the view of a stunning paradise, it’s almost possible to forget your appetite. Visit Chico Hot Springs Resort and indulge in some of the most delicious gourmet cuisine in all of Montana.

Contact us today to start planning your well-deserved trip to the wild side.
 

Pray for Snow- Part Deux

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 by Jonathan Burnham

Big Sky Resort

Back from my recent trip to Big Sky and I have to tell you that Big Sky is unbelievable! First off as a snowboarder or skier you will be blown away by the terrain, 3,832 acres - 155 named runs covering over 85 miles on three separate mountains. Also If you are looking for that sweet sweet powder then look no further, Big Sky gets an average of 400+ inches! I was lucky enough to see what our Big Sky Winter Getaway trip was all about while I was there and I must say that it could be the perfect adventure vacation for couples! Besides including a snowcoach ride into Yellowstone Park, snowmobiling, ski in ski out accommodations and dog sledding, the kicker of it all might be the snowcat ride up to a private yurt for an amazing night of fun. The Montana Dinner Yurt provides an extraordinary experience, imagine a dinner where after each course you have a sled break!!! 

Kasey flying down the slopesAdventure Vacations for Couples

Although this trip could be quite the romantic getaway, I feel at the same time it could be the perfect family adventure vacation! This trip is way more than just a family ski trip, it is the total adventure vacation package, an absolute immersion into a winter wonderland. Families have the chance to get ski or snowboard lesson, cross-country ski on a Yellowstone tour and maybe spot a pack of wolves on the hunt. 

Alright enough from me for now! All this talk about Big Sky and snow is making me want to get back out there!!!

see ya on the slopes,

Jonathan

P.S. Check out my video from my trip!

Winter Adventure Vacation in Montana

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Austin-Lehman Adventurers Montana

Montana is truly a traveler’s playground for all four seasons.  Different adventure trips can be enjoyed all year round.  During winter, Montana’s mountains are blanketed in snow and its slopes await skiing enthusiasts’ different moves. Yellowstone Park has different trails for cross-country skiing.  

There are snow coaches that will comfortably tour you around the landscape without risking frost bite and the various ill-effects of the harsh winter weather. Snow coaches will keep you warm from the below-zero temperature. If you can stand low temperatures and are ready for a new kind of sport, try snowshoeing.  Snowshoeing is basically walking on snow using special shoes. While it may look like an easy sport to enjoy, snowshoeing is great way to lose weight.

Snow mobiles are available for rent so you can explore the area in a faster way. Riding the snowmobiles requires a permit.  Because winter can be harsh, it is important to follow snowmobile safety procedures so you can enjoy an accident free ride. You can try sleigh rides for a more relaxing way to explore the scenic outdoors.  At the end of the adventure filled day, relax your muscles by soaking them into hot springs.  Share wonderful stories with the family over the fireplace while sipping hot chocolate.

Austin Lehman offers Yellowstone National Park Vacation Packages for a great winter vacation experience. Give us a call to learn more or visit our online catalog to book your trip today.

Captivating Vacations in Yellowstone National Park

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Yellowstone National Park

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For those who want to view waterfalls, lakes and wild life, Yellowstone National Parks is the place to visit.  Our Yellowstone National park packages allow you to spend your vacation with everything planned and taken care of – all you need to do it take it all in.  

Vacationers to Yellowstone have lots of opportunities for photography. From wide open vistas to spraying geyser waters, the captivating magic of this destination will provide an unforgettable experience for travelers and families. With over 2.2 million acres to explore, there’s something for everyone whether camping, backpacking or cycling. Our adventure trips are meant to provide something for everyone in attendance.

Whether you start your trip in Montana or Wyoming, we offer plenty of itineraries that cover every type of adventure. Yellowstone tours, family hiking and even winter skiing and snowshoeing will allow vacationers to experience the park in every season.

Because these tours fill up quickly, it is important to plan ahead for whichever season you choose. Visit our online travel catalog today to view the many available packages for solo travelers, couples and families to this beautiful region of the United States. If you would like to speak with someone, our live support line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at (800) 575-1540.
 

Montana Vacations Journey to Yellowstone Park

Thursday, February 16, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Montana Vacations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Montana vacations are a perfect getaway for those looking to be engulfed by nature and its wilderness. During winters, hot geysers steam out of the ice covered land giving the already beautiful landscape a touch of magic. You can ski with professional snow coaches on the slopes of mountains in Montana or hike through unexplored trails surrounded by numerous mud spots and hot springs that make the Yellowstone tours all the  more adventurous. Treading off the road and taking the unbeaten path in the forests of Yellowstone National Park gives you an unmatched experience of watching wildlife in its full glory. You can catch a glimpse of an elk, bison or grizzly bear playing with its cubs in the forest and observe these animals’ behavior when they are not caged or staged.

Yellowstone is one of America’s favorite national parks and can be visited anytime throughout the year. During summer, the park is blooming with a variety of bright colors due to the growth of flora and fauna in this warm season. Strolling through walking paths and picturesque gardens of this spectacular park or hiking up mountainous trails to reach the base of thundering waterfalls truly rewards travelers with all its majestic glory. The clear blue skies far away from city pollution give an amazingly clear view of the star studded night sky and the perfect ending to a long day of adventure and play.

Adventure vacation packages offered by Austin Lehman capture the true essence of active traveling. Book yours today and begin the adventure of a lifetime.
 

Plan a Family Adventure Vacation in Yellowstone National Park

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 by Tour Support Team

Plan a Family Adventurer Vacation in Yellowstone National Park

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Planning a family adventure vacation is indeed a very exciting project for any family. The key aspect of an ideal adventure trip is a package that includes loads of fun activities, absolute safety for the family and a cozy retreat to settle down after a long and eventful day. There is all this and much more to look forward to on a Yellowstone National Park vacation. It is the world’s first national park, and there is a lot to see and explore. As a favorite destination for millions of people from all over the world, visitors find the park a great way to connect with nature.

Wildlife, hot springs, geysers, steam vents, mud pots and breath taking views of Yellowstone are just a few of the many adventures just waiting to be discovered. While traveling along the Grand Loop road, you won’t have to wait for hours to get a glimpse of a bison, grizzly or wolf. Austin Lehman adventures take you off the main road to explore the forest by hiking the secluded backcountry trails and watching these animals in their natural abode. Easily walk off from the park area thronged with visitors and explore by foot, river rafting in white waters and horseback.

Apart from the number of hot springs and geysers that are scattered in Yellowstone, there are a few places untouched and serene known mostly by the locals or the guides of Austin Lehman. There are the beautiful Absaroka Mountains, extraordinary Grand Canyons and the unforgettable experience of seeing firsthand the most popular geyser in the world, Old Faithful.

Plan your Yellowstone vacation adventure today by visiting us online to review our 2012 catalog.
 

Yellowstone: Nature’s Playground

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 by Tour Support Team
National parks are the true gems of family adventure vacations.  The Yellowstone National Park, for instance, is a vast expanse of nature’s wonder covering more than 2 million acres of land. This wide area of geological marvel is a gift to adventure-seekers both young and old. 
Yellowstone National Park

The Yellowstone Park has activities for everyone in the family. Kids enjoy looking at nature’s amazing fountains, the geysers or stopping by the hot springs before a pleasant horseback ride.  They can also join the Junior Ranger program where they learn more about the interesting things in the park and earn their ranger’s patch when they finish all the activities in the brochure.

Older teens and adults experience the full features of Yellowstone with hiking, rafting or camping. There is also plenty of time to learn fly-fishing and kayaking through the park’s clear water channels.  Others enjoy safari-like adventures in some of our Yellowstone National Park vacation packages. These allow you to spend the day at Hayden Valley watching bison, elk, deer and wolves.  If you are lucky, you might even spot a grizzly bear…from afar of course!

Many visitors to Yellowstone enjoy the majestic landscape and spectacular scenery. The family’s adventurous spirit will be ignited as the park presents different opportunities for adventure and education as children learn more about different geological features and wildlife.

Plan your family’s Yellowstone trip this year by visiting our online catalog to learn more about all the great activities available in our vacation travel itineraries.

Top 10 Tips for Planning the Perfect Couples Getaway

Friday, February 10, 2012 by Kasey Austin

Jack and Linda

Jack chuckles as he recalls his last vacation with Linda. As a newly dating couple, their first weeklong getaway included a map with too few details, lost hotel reservations, and forgotten picnic lunches on several occasions. Linda even had a run in with a beehive and guess who forgot to bring the first aid kit?! Jack appreciates the memories now but remembers the stresses of the critical moments on what was supposed to be a relaxing vacation. Does this sound in any way familiar? Are you ready to plan the perfect getaway for you and your honey? Well, read onto discover some helpful hints on planning, preparing and playing on your next couples adventure!

1. Where Should We Go? What’s on your bucket list? What’s on your partner’s bucket list? Is there anywhere that you’veboth always wanted to visit? Write down your top 10 places you want to vacation and compareit with your significant other’s. Do your lists overlap? Can you meet somewhere in the middle?Choosing your destination is the beginning of an exciting process for creating the perfectvacation. What better way to bring you together as a couple than planning for an adventure inyour future? Whether you’re brand new to this or you’re a seasoned veteran to the planningprocess, choosing the perfect vacation can be a memorable experience.

2. Biking, Lounging or Both? Now you need to figure out what kinds of activities you both like to do. Do you enjoy cycling onyour weekends or would you both rather lounge on the beach with a good book? Maybe you liketo go the extra mile while she would rather pamper herself in the spa. Whatever activities youlike to do, there is a tour operator out there for you, waiting to fulfill your requests. Many touroperators create flexible schedules so that you and your significant other can choose the rightamount of activity for you in a stress-free environment. And we all know that the perfect couplesvacation includes the least amount of stress!

3. Been There Done That. Maybe you’ve already hiked through the Grand Canyon together or rafted the Pacuare River in Costa Rica. But have you ever biked in France along the banks of the calm Loire River? Can yousay that you’ve snowshoed through drifting white snowbanks while watching Old Faithful eruptagainst a frosty sky? Would you ever hike the Inca Trail to be rewarded with the stunning viewof Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate? Trying a new activity as a couple in a new destination canbe a rewarding experience for the both of you as you travel outside your comfort zone. The thrillof ziplining through a rainforest canopy will not soon be forgotten if you take a go at it together..

4. How Many is Too Many? Do you want to vacation with just you and your honey? Or would you rather join a group oflikeminded individuals with the same goals in travel as you? This is a question to ponder withyour significant other. Independent travel as a couple can be a romantic way to enjoy your one-on-one time together. Group travel is also a fun way to meet other couples and discover newexperiences. Whichever way you decide to go, you still get to spend quality time together andthat’s what really matters!

5. Time and Dinero- This is the fun part! What does your future time frame look like? Does she only get two weeksof vacation time a year? Does he not want to travel in the summer months when families crowdthe ideal destinations? How are you going to know when the “right” time is to travel? A tip forcouples: traveling in the offseason (spring and fall) can be a great (and cheaper) way to see someamazing destinations without the crowds. If you can’t make the offseason work for your timeschedule, no worries – there are many romantic pockets of busy destinations just waiting to bediscovered. As for dinero, make sure you and your significant other create a budget for travelthat you both feel comfortable with. Vacationing without overspending is a satisfying feeling that
will leave you and your other half wanting to travel again and again!

6. All the Factors- There are so many different variables that can become part of the vacation planning process butyou will want to center in on just a few so as not to get overwhelmed! Accommodations are a bigone. Do you want to sleep luxuriously in a four star hotel or camp under the stars on a cot? Therange of accommodations is endless and up to what you and your spouse feel comfortable with.Another variable to look at is climate. Would you rather race down the ski slopes on a winterwonderland vacation or bask under an African sun while searching for the elusive cheetah?Also, what types of terrain are you as a couple ready for? Hilly or flat? Rocky or smooth? Longor short? Looking at every single factor in the vacation planning process can be overwhelming.Tour operated trips can take the stress out of this variable planning process by giving youunlimited options in doing a vacation your way.

7. Google is Your Friend! Go ahead and research to your heart’s content. The great thing about Google is that typingin “Yellowstone” or “Couple’s Retreat” will pull up thousands of search results that you cannarrow down over a few days or a few months. Really, it’s up to you. How much time do youwant to put into creating the perfect vacation for you and your spouse? Do you want to createa vacation from scratch as a couple or would you rather find an all inclusive vacation package?As you begin your research on your ideal destination, you may find yourself quickly narrowingdown the possbilities. Afterall, you and your significant other have already talked about whereyou want to go and what you want to do – now go find it!

8. Ask around- Is there just too much on the Internet for you to sift through on your own? Talk to other couplesthat you know who’ve traveled before – they probably have some great suggestions. Also, a localtravel agent can help you narrow down your search. Tour operators can connect you with pastguests who can recommend a specific trip. The possibilities are endless – just get out there andask!

9. Working Out is… Fun did you both just sign up for that big bike trip in South Dakota that you’re not quite sure you’reready for? Why not work out together to prepare yourself for an active vacation? With ouralready busy schedules, it’s difficult to find time to go to the gym or even take a walk aroundthe neighborhood. Pledge to your significant other that you will do some sort of activity togethersay, three times a week for at least 45 minutes. Get those old bikes in the garage tuned up for aride along the local bike path. Take a yoga class together. Take the dog on a walk. Your workoutplan doesn’t have to be strenuous – just get out there together! You’ll feel better about yourself,your relationship, and your preparedness for your upcoming adventure!

10. Live It Up together! Take advantage of your time spent together on your vacation. Do things you never thought youwould do. Sneak a bottle of champagne out onto the balcony to enjoy a drink under the stars.Ride the last leg of the bike ride to get the best view of the sunset. Book that massage that youjust never seemed to have time for back home. Make your vacation as memorable as possible
because these will be the stories that you as a couple hold with you always. And don’t forget, it’snever too early to start planning your next vacation!

If you’re looking to plan the perfect getaway for two, start with these tips and see what you come up with. Begin thinking today about where you want to go tomorrow – the possibilities are endless! With a little planning and preparation, you can be sure to cash in on the perfect couples adventure. So go ahead, get started lovebirds!

Your friendly travel expert,

Kasey Austin

Best Adventure Travel Vacation Destinations of 2011

Friday, February 10, 2012 by Bronson Harrington

Bronson here with my first guest post to the Adventure Travel Blog at Austin-Lehman Adventures.

5 Best Adventure Vacation Destinations of 2011

5 Best Adventure Vacation Destinations of 2011

Dan Austin shared some interesting stats about adventure travel activity this year with us one of our annual review sessions, some stuff which I thought may make for a interesting blog post and some awesome adventure travel inspiration.

The info I’d like to share today is a list of the Top 5 Adventure Travel Destinations of 2011 ranked by popularity and also some of the awesome images from our ever growing collection of travel photography on Flickr. So, if you’re looking for reasons to put an adventure trip of a lifetime on your to-do list for 2012 then look no further than the list below.

Top Adventure Travel Destinations of 2011

Montana

montana-adventure-vacations

Montana

Yellowstone

yellowstone-winter-adventure-vacations - Dog

Yellowstone National Park

France

france-adventure-vacations

France Adventure Vacations

Yellowstone – Tetons

Yellowstone - Tetons

Yellowstone - Tetons

Alaska

alaska-adventure-vacations

Alaska

Still need more?

If you’re still looking for more then please download your free copy of our 2012 Adventure Travel Catalog or browse through the digital version to discover more interesting adventure travel and luxury adventure vacation packages in Europe, Africa and the Americas – and what makes us the leaders in worldwide adventure vacations today.

Have your say.

Join the conversation by voting for your favorite in the comments below or commenting about your experience – who knows, you may just win a custom designed wallpaper pack featuring your favorites from us to say thanks.

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