Some journeys are measured in miles. Others are measured in moments, connections, and the stories we carry home.
This summer, I reached a personal travel milestone: my 50th country.
It felt like the perfect moment to pause and reflect—not just on the number, but on what those 50 countries have taught me about travel.
Portugal was the place where I celebrated this milestone, and it couldn’t have been more fitting. From the historic streets of Lisbon to the fairytale landscapes of Sintra, every day offered something new to discover. I was captivated by the history, the food, the scenery, and perhaps most of all, the warmth of the Portuguese people. But as I thought about the many countries I’ve visited, I realized something: the places that stay with us aren’t necessarily the ones with the most famous landmarks or the longest list of things to see.
They’re the places where we slowed down enough to notice something unexpected. The conversation with a local that changed our perspective. The meal we still talk about years later. The breathtaking view we weren’t prepared for. The laughter shared with people who started them journey as strangers and ended it as friends.
Those are the moments that make travel meaningful. And they’re a big part of why I love small-group travel.
There is something special about exploring the world with a handful of curious travelers. You have the structure and confidence of thoughtfully planned experiences, while still having room to wander, discover a favorite café, linger over lunch, or simply enjoy an afternoon at your own pace. And you don’t have to navigate it all alone. For me, hosting a small-group adventure means being there—not just to help plan the journey, but to experience it alongside my travelers. I love creating an environment where you can step outside your comfort zone, immerse yourself in a new culture, and know that someone is there to help when you need it.
Wander far, but not alone.
That philosophy is at the heart of my 2027 small-group adventures. Next year, I’ll be hosting and personally attending journeys through Egypt in April, Peru in early June, South Africa in August, Portugal in late September, and Japan in November.
Each destination offers something completely different, but they share the same goal: meaningful experiences, genuine connection, thoughtful planning, and the freedom to enjoy the journey.
If you’ve been dreaming about a destination but haven’t felt quite ready to take the leap, perhaps 2027 is your year. You don’t have to wait for the perfect travel companion. You don’t have to figure out every detail yourself. And you don’t have to choose between adventure and comfort.
You simply need to decide where you’d like to go.
Join my 2027 Small Group Travel Interest List to be among the first to receive information about these upcoming adventures, including itineraries, dates, pricing, and availability. Email me at kim.huber@cruiseplanners.com to join the list.
Your next unforgettable story may be waiting somewhere you’ve never been.
Wander far, but not alone.
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