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7 Travel Companies That Plan Mystery Vacations

Meet the newest trend in full-service trip planning: surprise travel. You won't find out where you're going until it's time to go.

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For most people, the joy of traveling isn’t the researching or booking—it’s that moment you step off the airplane in a place you’ve never been. So why not skip the planning and let someone else chart your next adventure for you, including choosing the destination? Besides, who cares where you go when you’ve got expert travel agents finalizing every last detail for you?

Introducing the latest trend in travel: surprise trips to places that won’t be revealed to you until it’s go time.

Jubel , a tech-enabled travel company founded in 2015 in California, offers customized multi-destination getaways and route planning. It can also save you more than 55 percent in travel costs compared with booking a trip yourself, thanks to insider travel deals. Jubel also offers surprise trips .

Fill out its survey with your preferred dates, budget, and travel style, and it’ll send you a trip proposal. You can be completely surprised by the destination or learn the continent or country ahead of time. Once you’ve booked, you’ll get sealed envelopes to open along your journey, plus details on what to pack and when to show up at the airport. International trips start at around $1,000 per person per week.

Pack Up and Go

Want a weekend getaway in the U.S. without any hassle of planning it? Enter Pack Up and Go , founded in 2016 in Pittsburgh. Give the company your dates and budget, and complete a quick survey (sample question: Do you want action, relaxation, or culture?), and it will do the rest for you. Prior to your trip, you’ll get a packing list, flight information, and a weather forecast. Days before you leave, an envelope with your destination and itinerary will arrive in the mail. Open it at the airport. Trips start at $400 per person.

The Vacation Hunt

Whether you have three days or two weeks, the expert travelers at the Vacation Hunt , started in 2017 by a husband and wife in Washington, D.C., will plan a trip for you. Tell the reps what you’re looking for (spas or zoos? bars or museums?) and they’ll start sending you clues as to where you’re going. Packaged trips in the U.S. start at $750 per person; international trips start at $950. They also offer gift certificates if you want to give someone else a surprise trip.

Magical Mystery Tours

With Magical Mystery Tours , you won’t know where you’re going until you show up at the airport. First, enter your preferences: Do you want a foreign trip? Do you dislike the cold or the beach? Would you prefer heading to the desert or someplace tropical? Then input your dates, budget, and who you’re traveling with. The company will take care of the details. Magical Mystery Tours has been booking destination vacations to locations all over the globe since 2009. Cost depends on the length of the trip, whether it’s international or domestic travel, and the kind of accommodations you want. Weekend trips for two start at $1,500.

Surprise Me Trips

Choose between quick road trips from your hometown or far-flung destinations via airplane. You’ll get details about what to bring and where to be just before your departure. For its weekend road trips, tell the company where you want to start, and it will plan a surprise itinerary around your region, including a few nights in different locales and major landmarks and activities to check out along the way. Despite this travel company’s name, it will also arrange trips that don’t come as a surprise, if that’s more your thing. Surprise Me Trips was launched by three well-traveled friends in Texas in 2016. Weekend regional road trips start at $375.

Black Tomato

In 2017, high-end travel company Black Tomato  debuted its  Get Lost service, which creates adventurous tailor-made expeditions to wilderness destinations like Mongolia or the Arctic that are kept entirely a secret from you. Here’s how it works: select a polar, jungle, coastal, desert, or mountain trip—or have Black Tomato choose that, too—and book at least six months in advance to give you time to train and prepare. When you arrive at your location, you’ll be outfitted with all the gear you need, plus a private transfer from the airport to your starting point and a satellite phone for emergencies. Chart your way through a series of mapped-out checkpoints using navigational technology and your own two feet. The journey ends at a luxury retreat. Average Get Lost trips cost around $15,000 per person—but there are shorter, less expensive options, too.

Rustic Pathways

Designed for high school students looking for an exciting summer group trip, student-travel company Rustic Pathways offers a mystery trip to an unknown international destination. Before departure you’ll get a Patagonia duffel bag sent to you that’s filled with clues and a few essentials. Then arrive at the designated airport and spend the next two weeks exploring foreign cities and remote villages with other intrepid students as a guide leads the way. As of press time, there were still a few spots left on an upcoming trip in late June. It costs $5,995, not including airfare.

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10 Companies That Will Plan a Surprise Vacation for You

Adele Chapin

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What if you got ready for a vacation and showed up at the airport with no idea where your plane was headed? That’s the idea behind a new type of travel agency that will plan surprise vacations for very adventurous travelers. At the airport, you’ll receive a destination and custom itinerary (usually based on a survey or interview to determine your travel style). The idea is that you leave the planning, details, and logistics to someone else, and just pack up and go. Here’s how to take a surprise vacation of a lifetime with the help of these 10 travel companies.

BlackTomato

If you’ve always wanted to test your survival skills, Bear Grylls-style, BlackTomato’s elaborate surprise adventure tours might be the next best thing. Choose between terrains like “Polar, Jungle, Desert, Mountain, and Coastal,” and BlackTomato’s experts will figure out a country to drop you in—with advice on how to train for your expedition beforehand. Then it’s up to you to navigate through a series of checkpoints (with BlackTomato ops teams watching from afar to make sure all is well).

Blind Experiences

Imagine a surprise honeymoon where stressed-out couples didn’t have to plan anything at all. That idea kickstarted the luxury travel agency Blind Experiences , which then expanded into putting together tailored itineraries for families with young kids and multi-generational groups— with more surprises gradually revealed throughout the trip via sealed envelopes 

The surprise trip survey for Jubel begins by narrowing in on a country, continent or destination (beach or mountains?), then asks whether you’re more of a museum or nightlife person (you can pick both, for example). Jubel’s experts go from there to put together a proposal for you that’s just vague enough that your vacation is still a big surprise.

10 Trips Millennial Travelers Will Love

Magical Mystery Tours

The founders of Magical Mystery Tours started their surprise travel agency back in 2009, and they’ve planned many customized vacations since then. The questionnaire quizzes travelers on everything from whether seasickness is a concern to which places they’ve visited and absolutely loved.

Pack Up & Go

Looking to go on a surprise road trip, a plane or train trip, or even a staycation in your own town? Those are the types of trips that Pack Up & Go specializes in, and travelers have headed off to 125 U.S. cities for a fun and completely unexpected trip with a planned-out itinerary of activities and meals. 

Spontaneous and courageous travelers are the ideal clients for SkipTown , an agency that will plan short surprise trips for you—even if you can only get away for one day. A “daycation” includes one night’s accommodation, one meal reservation, and one activity, all of which will be unexpected.

The 10 Best Group Travel Tour Companies for 2021

With Surprisit , you’ll find out your unique surprise destination a few days before your vacation begins (in case you need a bit of time for some Googling). The agency plans surprise trips in the Caribbean in addition to the U.S. and Canada, as well as a “ Eurotrip ” where you head off to a new European city every three days.

The Vacation Hunt

If you’re a beach person, but you still want a big surprise, The Vacation Hunt will set you up with an all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean, Mexico or Latin America. Other surprise destinations for this travel agency include a trip within Europe or the United States, or you can open it up to any destination in the world. Surprise honeymoons are a speciality for The Vacation Hunt as well. 

The Best Tour Groups for Seniors

Whisked Away

Leave the real-world behind for a while with Whisked Away , which will plan surprise week-long flying or driving trips. The idea is to make this the easiest vacation ever for honeymooners, solo vacationers, families, girls’ groups, or anyone who wants an out-of-the-ordinary experience. 

Splurge trips, surprise vow renewals, solo adventures: Whym will plan a surprise vacation for all sorts of travelers. At the moment, the travel agency is only sending travelers out in the U.S.—and the surprises keep coming throughout the vacation, with blank spaces in your itinerary that are revealed gradually via “whymsies” text messages.

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Home » Awaken Travels Surprise Destination Travel

Awaken Travels Surprise Destination Adventures

Welcome to Awaken Travels, where we specialize in crafting surprise itineraries that unveil the beauty of travel in the most exhilarating way. Our Surprise Destination Travel is for those who love surprises and adventures but also appreciate a well-packed suitcase for the journey ahead.

Experience the Unexpected

• Step 1: Share and Dream: Begin by telling us your travel preferences, desired dates, and budget. Love the outdoors? Crave culinary experiences? We’re all ears.
• Step 2: Anticipation and Hints: We’ll plan your trip and send hints leading up to your departure. You’ll know enough to pack perfectly without spoiling the surprise.
• Step 3: Unveil the Destination: A few days before your trip starts, we’ll reveal your destination, giving you the thrill of surprise with ample time to prepare.

Why Choose a Surprise Destination Travel Vacation with Awaken Travels?

• Tailored to You: Every adventure is customized to align with what you love in a getaway.
• Expert Crafted: Our travel planners use their vast knowledge to ensure each trip is remarkable.
• Peace of Mind: From the big picture to the tiny details, we handle it all.
• Continuous Support: Any concerns? We’re here to resolve them promptly.
• Unique Access: We unlock experiences that standard trips don’t cover.
• Enduring Memories: Our goal is for each trip to be a story you’ll love retelling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• A: Each trip includes your transportation, accommodations, and a list of recommended activities and attractions that align with your interests.
• A: We consider your preferences, past travel experiences, and any specific wishes you have to select a destination that promises delight and discovery.
• A: Days before your trip, you’ll receive your destination reveal, along with a detailed itinerary, packing list, and weather forecast.
• A: Definitely! We encourage you to share any constraints or must-haves to ensure your trip meets your expectations.
• A: You’ll have a list of suggestions from us. Book activities that pique your interest and enjoy meals that fit your taste and budget.
• A: We offer flexible options for changes and cancellations. Just reach out to us, and we’ll assist you with the necessary arrangements.

Embark on Your Adventure

Eager for an unexpected getaway? Let Awaken Travels surprise you with a meticulously planned trip to an exciting destination. Connect with us to start your surprise adventure!

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. You can read our Editorial & Disclosure Policy Here .

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• DESTINATION GUIDES

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6 Rules for Planning a Surprise Vacation

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I am the master of giving travel gifts. In the 18 years that my partner, Andrew, and I have dated, I’ve planned surprise vacations for us to Paris , Berlin , Prague, Amsterdam , Mexico City , Colombia, Japan, Hawaii, and the Cook Islands. Last Christmas, I decided to do something different.

I’ve known Andrew’s parents for nearly two decades. They’re lovely people but not well-traveled compared to their son and pseudo daughter-in-law (me), both of whom make our living as travel writers.

Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, the 70-year-old Parkses had never been west of the Mississippi until we moved to Minneapolis two years ago. And I can count on one hand the number of times they’ve flown on an airplane. Mr. Parks is a retired factory worker and Mrs. Parks works in admin in a doctor’s office. They’re both homebodies who stick to their usual routines: watching the Hallmark Channel or Food Network, running errands to Kohl’s and Wegmans, and gambling a few times a month at the nearby Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino .

That sparked an idea. After all the “normal” presents had been distributed on Christmas, we gave them a surprise vacation to Las Vegas . The gift included roundtrip airfare, four nights in a luxury suite at The Palazzo at the Venetian Resort , and IOU vouchers for dinners, shows, and activities. His parents were shocked and elated—and more than a bit nervous about going somewhere new.

Orchestrating a surprise vacation—especially for people with limited travel experience—is challenging. Here are my best tips for pulling it off.

Rule No. 1: Do your homework

I knew that the Parkses are nervous flyers, so I opted for a Detroit layover via Delta over a nonstop route from Southwest because the in-flight experience would be better. Where possible, I upgraded them to Comfort Plus , knowing that little extra TLC from the flight attendants would put them more at ease.

His parents’ physical capabilities and personal interests informed other decisions. I rented a car because they can’t walk long distances. I zeroed in on the Palazzo because its casino is well-lit and spacious, with designated non-smoking areas. If you aren’t sure if the person you’re surprising will like something, ask their friends or former travel companions. In our case, I turned to their Vegas-loving pals Pat and Ed. Based on their effusive recommendations, I cobbled together an itinerary I was sure they’d love.

Rule No. 2: Presentation matters

When I surprised Andrew with a trip to Colombia in the late-aughts, I shook him awake at 3 a.m. and said, “Wake up, we have a flight to catch!” He was as groggy and unamused as you’d imagine. When he realized I was serious, he started freaking out. I assured him everything was already taken care of: I had contacted his boss to request time off , checked that his passport was up-to-date, and packed his suitcase. By doing so much pre-planning, I was able to keep our final destination a secret until we approached the check-in counter. (Alas, tightened airport security makes it tough to keep a destination a secret beyond the gate. If you want a blindfold reveal, plan a road trip.)

For Andrew’s parents, I wanted the presentation to be memorable but not too jarring. The best surprises build suspense. I picked up a poker-themed piñata from a party supply store and stuffed it full of faux money, chocolate coins, and gold confetti. I scribbled a message on the back of cartoonishly large $100 bills: Pack … Your … Bags … You’re … Going … To … Las … Vegas! These bills, along with blank decoys and two additional messages ( Don’t worry, we’re going too! and This is not a zonk! ), were also tucked inside.

It took half an hour, but eventually they pieced together the full message. “Are you kidding me? Are you sh***ing kidding me?!” Mrs. Parks squealed, waving around the bills. It was exactly the reaction we wanted.

Rule No. 3: Keep the surprises coming

My favorite thing about planning this vacation was working in additional surprises, like tickets to see magician Mat Franco and Cirque du Soleil's O . We knew the former would be a hit because Mr. and Mrs. Parks watch America’s Got Talent , which Franco won in 2014. O was a splurge, but we knew they’d be floored by aquatic acrobatics.

Meal times presented another opportunity. We started with brunch at Sadelle’s Cafe , a Jewish-style delicatessen in the Bellagio Conservatory. Here, Mrs. Parks sampled her first chocolate babka and Mr. Parks tried a bagel with smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, and onion. Hits all around. They had never been to a tiki bar before, either, so we took them to our favorite off-Strip: Frankie’s Tiki Room . His dad, sipping his first boozy Scorpion, remarked, “I pulled my neck before and I don’t even feel it now.” To which Mrs. Parks chirped, “See! Seventy-year-olds can have fun, too.”

The Parkses at the Bellagio.

But our greatest surprise was a dinner/show combo at the new Mayfair Supper Club at the Bellagio. The sumptuous interior, impeccable service, swingin’-jivin’ stage show, and prime rib carved tableside (“It’s like buttah!” cooed his dad) made the whole experience a smash. “I’ve never had a better dinner, ever,” raved his mom. The highlight, however, was watching a sequined singer serenade bashful Mr. Parks with a flirty rendition of Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off.” Memories like that are priceless.

Rule No. 4: Don’t spend every waking minute together

Space is good. While the Parkses loved their swanky setup at the Palazzo, Andrew and I opted for a chic Atelier suite in the newer, hipper NoMad Hotel . Though our accommodations were located at opposite ends of the Strip, it was best to assign each party a room that spoke to their individual tastes.

We did this throughout the trip. His parents waved glow sticks at a Barry Manilow concert at Westgate ; we rocked out to Aerosmith at the Park MGM . They ate lobster lollipops at Guy Fieri’s Vegas Kitchen & Bar ; we indulged in Jameson-spiked slushies and fried baloney sandwiches at Best Friend , a bodega-inspired eatery from Roy Choi. They pumped money into slots; we admired glittery pasties at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Museum . Everyone did their own thing and was happier because of it.

Rule No. 5: Nudge, don’t shove

It’s important to know your limits. A helicopter ride to the Grand Canyon was never gonna happen. Neither was kibitzing with beefcakes at Thunder From Down Under . Our goal was to encourage his parents to try new things, not change who they are.

A visit to Red Rock Canyon struck that perfect balance. They’ve never visited a national park or conservation area; this desert rockscape, with its striated sandstone peaks, was a thrill. Hiking was out of the question, but it still brought us immense joy to see his parents experience a “first” at 70 years of age. “It looks like an old Western,” marveled Mr. Parks, face glued to the window. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

In turn, I appreciated how flexible and open-minded his parents were. At breakfast at the Egg & I , Mr. Parks skipped past pancakes and omelets and ordered himself a Hawaiian plate of Spam, eggs, and rice. “I want to try something different,” he said with a shrug. Breakthrough!

Rule No. 6: Go out with a bang

Preferably one you’ve kept a secret. For our last stop on our final evening in Vegas, we surprised his Italophile parents with reservations at Sinatra , a classic Italian restaurant inside the high-rolling Encore hotel at the Wynn Las Vegas . Mr. and Mrs. Parks got a kick out of the Ol' Blue Eyes soundtrack and wall of Rat Pack memorabilia, and they’re still waxing lyrical about the veal parmigiana and “best cannoli ever.”

When asked to reflect on their trip, Mr. Parks summed it up thusly: “I’d always heard about the casinos in Vegas. But we’ve got casinos back home. For me, it’s the shows, Red Rocks, and just being here with youz guys that I’ll never forget.”

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Whether it’s for Father’s Day, graduation, Christmas or a birthday, there’s no gift quite as exciting and surprising as a trip to a thrilling new destination. If you can manage to keep it a secret, that is — which is easier said than done.

But we’ll help you line up the perfect experience with this handy guide on how to surprise someone with a trip of their dreams.

How do you give a trip as a gift?

Keep the following tips in mind if you want to give a surprise vacation gift to a loved one.

1. Get the recipient's info

First things first: Bookings require some personal info, so before you start lining up a surprise vacation, collect all of the information you might need for airfare, train bookings, hotel stays, etc.

Here are the particulars you should have on hand:

Full name as it appears on their identification.

Date of birth.

A copy of their passport (if booking international travel).

Known traveler number for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry .

It is sometimes possible to book international travel without each travelers passport information, but you'll be required to submit it to the airline at some point before checking in for the flight. So if you can't get that info right away, look into the requirements of the specific airline you're planning to fly and find out whether you can add the passport information post-booking.

You’ll notice their email address and phone number aren’t on this list. That’s because you should avoid using their contact info, offering yours instead for confirmations. If you use theirs, one stray email about a tour or seat assignment could give it all away.

Avoid using the recipient's frequent traveler numbers during booking, as they will likely get email updates with booking confirmations, ruining the surprise.

Travelers can always get credit for flights or accommodation post-vacation by logging into their respective accounts and claiming points and miles retroactively. A known traveler number, however, can be added to a flight booking without tipping anyone off.

2. Recruit a friend or family member

If you’re not already closely related to the trip recipient or living in the same house with them, it’s smart to recruit a family member, close friend or roommate to help you collect all of the information you’ll need. They can be on the "inside" as a co-surprise trip planner, assisting you in locating numbers, availability, etc. with less risk of you spoiling the fun.

3. Check (and double-check) their schedule

Before you begin the actual booking process, be sure to check — and then double-check — the trip recipient's schedule. The last thing you want to do is to book airfare, a cruise, condo or rental car just to find out they have a wedding that weekend or are celebrating a parent’s birthday.

With the help of your accomplice you've recruited, check work, social, school, even family activity calendars to ensure you’re not trying to surprise someone with a trip on a week they absolutely cannot leave home. Even better, consider making faux plans with them for something mundane during the trip time to ensure they're available.

4. Get insurance

When you book a surprise trip, check to make sure that any bookings you pay for in advance come with some sort of cancellation coverage (or at the very least can be rescheduled for no additional fee). If they aren’t, opt for travel insurance that allows you to cancel or reschedule any and all travel without hefty fees or penalties.

This way, if something does come up and the person you’re surprising can’t go, you — and they — are covered.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

5. Stay abreast of travel restrictions

Travel during the COVID-era can make surprise trip planning tricky, but it can be done. Research in advance any restrictions or travel bans that exist in your preferred destinations before booking. If you have to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival, but the gift recipient can only take one week off of work, for example, they’re not going to have a very enjoyable stay.

If they’ve been vaccinated and the destination requires documentation, make sure they have proof. And if they have to present a negative test before departing or arriving, coordinate so they don’t get turned away at the gate.

6. Keep it a secret

There's an art to figuring out how to give a surprise trip as a gift. Since keeping the vacation a secret can be tricky, especially if you live in the same space, it takes added consciousness and communication to not give it away.

Don’t leave tabs or your browser history open and available if you occasionally share a computer. If you share a bank or credit card account and the recipient checks it frequently, be careful not to use those cards and accounts to pay for travel.

Instead, purchase a Visa or Mastercard gift card, or sign up for a new travel credit card under just your name and pay for things that way. It's even better if you’re traveling with them and the card offers perks like free checked bags or lounge access.

Tell others in their circle that the gift is coming and that the news of it shouldn't be shared with the recipient — otherwise even if you can keep it under wraps, someone else might accidentally spoil the surprise.

7. Don’t forget the details

There are big things, like flights and accommodations, to think of, but don’t forget about the little things. Consider a car rental at the destination , comfort items like blankets or snacks for the trip and tours or bus tickets once they’ve arrived.

Are they driving? Consider gas cards.

Do you want them to eat well while they’re gone? Score a few gift cards to great dining establishments in the destination.

And when you finally reveal the surprise, offer informative things like brochures, travel guides and lists of helpful resources to help them get excited and plan any must-do activities.

If you gift a surprise vacation

How do you give a trip as a gift? With secrecy, stealthy planning, organization and a whole lot of creativity. But all of your hard work will be worth it when they take that first photo in their destination.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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Surprise Trips Are More Popular Than Ever—Here’s What It’s Like When a Stranger Plans Your Vacation

One afar editor let the surprise travel agency pack up and go plan a mystery road trip—one where she didn’t find out her destination until the moment she walked out the door..

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AFAR went on a surprise road trip to Newport and saw historical landmarks like The Breakers.

Photo by Lyndsey Matthews

After I zipped up my weekend bag and put my shoes on, I eagerly ripped open the envelope that read, “Warning: No Peeking Until the Day of Your Departure!” The envelope had arrived on Tuesday, but through sheer force of will, I had managed to keep its contents—the destination of a weekend getaway planned by Pack Up and Go , a surprise travel agency—a secret until the moment I was ready to depart on Saturday.

I pulled out a thick piece of card stock that read, “You’re going to Newport, Rhode Island!” in big teal letters. And with that, I added the envelope—which also contained a pre-planned itinerary—to my bag and headed off on a road trip to the coastal New England city.

At AFAR, we’ve been big fans of surprise trips for a long time. Ever since our first issue in fall 2009, we’ve been sending writers like Alton Brown and Charmaine Craig to destinations such as New Zealand and Lisbon with just 24 hours’ notice in our “Spin the Globe” feature. Surprise travel has become a full-blown trend in recent years as more companies start to offer these trip-planning services.

In fact, Pinterest discovered that searches for “Surprise Destination” increased 192 percent in the last six months of 2018, beating out other popular travel terms like “Hot Springs” and “Autumn Scenery.” The desire to be more spontaneous appears to be at the root of this trend. In their 2018 Travel Trends Report , Ford Motor Company found that 52 percent of U.S. travelers said they enjoy getting lost and spontaneously discovering hidden restaurants and shops to create unique memories when they travel.

Exploring Newport in a 2018 Ford Mustang

I’m the kind of traveler who finds great joy in researching destinations and poring over guidebooks months in advance of my trips, but when Pack Up and Go and Ford offered to let me borrow a 2018 Ford Mustang for a three-day surprise road trip, I jumped at the opportunity. As a travel editor, whenever I take off with my friends or family, I tend to handle most of the reservations and research. But sometimes, it’s nice to let someone else do the planning. For group travel it can be hard to pick one destination that checks all the boxes for your group.

But that doesn’t mean Pack Up and Go picks a place at random and sends you there. When I booked the trip, I took a short survey that asked me about the last few places I had been and where I was planning to go next (to make sure they wouldn’t send me on a repeat trip), and details about the kind of traveler I was. Do I prefer museums to shopping? A quiet night in or one out on the town?

Other than that, all I knew before I left were a few vague details. The trip would be in a midsize city within a four-hour drive of my home in New York (Pack Up and Go also plans air and train trips within three to four hours of your home for people without access to cars). I also received a weather report a week before departing. While the details I was given eliminated larger cities farther away like Boston and Washington, D.C., my mind swirled with the possibilities.

Technically, there was nothing stopping me from ripping open that envelope the second it arrived, but the secret was half the fun. The week before I left, my friends all sent me their destination guesses. Some thought Philadelphia, others were convinced it was either Baltimore or Annapolis, while exactly one friend guessed Newport correctly.

Pack Up and Go had also printed out directions to and from Newport’s Mill Street Inn , where they had booked me for two nights. The Mustang I borrowed was kitted out with Wi-Fi and Apple CarPlay, which made it easy to listen to my own music and get directions at the same time—without burning through my entire data plan.

No trip to Newport is complete without sunset drinks at Castle Hill Inn.

In addition to providing suggestions for things to do once I arrived in Newport, Pack Up and Go also gave me conveniently timed suggestions for places to stop for lunch along the way (I never would have happened upon the SoNo Baking Co. in South Norwalk, Connecticut, otherwise). It was also nice to get off the highway and into Narragansett—home to one of the best beaches in Rhode Island —for a quick detour. When I arrived in Newport, I found the Mill Street Inn to be a bit understated for my tastes. But after waking up the next morning, I realized it was in the most peacefully quiet location while also being within a short walk or drive of other recommendations like the White Horse Tavern, Cliff Walk, and Castle Hill Inn . I can deal with beige decor for an undisturbed night of sleep and convenience any day.

While Pack Up and Go’s suggestions were spot-on, Instagram was another trove of information for the spontaneous trip. I got brunch recommendations from a friend’s wife who had gone to high school in Newport, and also found out that a past colleague’s brother ran the Midtown Oyster Bar on Thames Street. So while I was enjoying a glass of sancerre and a half-dozen local oysters, chef James Mitchell gave me tips for where to find affordable lobster rolls ( Anthony’s Seafood , just a 10-minute drive away in Middletown) and the best place to drink a pint next to locals ( Pour Judgement on Broadway).

How to plan your own surprise trip

Pack Up and Go offers two-night, three-day surprise trips starting at $400. But Magical Mystery Tours , Surprise Me Trips , and the Vacation Hunt also offer these kinds of trip-planning services. If you’re confident in your trip-planning skills, you can also surprise a family member, friend, or significant other with a trip (FYI, Valentine’s Day falls right before the long Presidents’ Day weekend this year).

You can take one of two approaches: To build anticipation—and give your travel partner a little bit of a warning—pick a weekend that you’re both free and drop hints in the weeks leading up to it with details about the weather and any special gear to pack. Then when you get to the airport or load up your car’s GPS, reveal the secret destination. If your travel partner really enjoys being spontaneous, you can also secretly clear his or her schedule ahead of time and pack their bag for an even bigger surprise the day you depart.

>> Next: The Best Weekend Getaways in the United States

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All the cities you can travel to have something special. You can delete the ones you do not want to visit and if you travel with us more than once we will take you into account so you do not repeat your destination.

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We know that to enjoy a trip it is very important to rest well. You will sleep in hotels, hostels and apartments centrally or very well communicated with public transport and always well rated in TripAdvisor.

The surprise destination allows us to negotiate with accommodation and suppliers in a different way. This way we get discounts that would otherwise be impossible.

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Our Customer Service team will solve all your doubts before, during and after the trip.

Runways and Byways

My Surprise Vacation Experience: Pack Up + Go Review

For the longest time, I did not know surprise travel agencies existed. One day, at work, a coworker mentioned she was going on a vacation with a company called Pack Up + Go : a budget-friendly surprise travel agency. This piqued my interest; who wouldn’t want to be whisked away to a mystery destination ? However, I did not put much thought into it, as I had a busy year of travel ahead of me already.

I eventually chose to embark on a surprise vacation for two main reasons: the thrill of the surprise and the convenience. After a vacation nightmare due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I still wanted to travel, but I did not know where to go, and I did not want to plan it for myself. It was too much work to keep track of the ever-changing rules and regulations. My friend Katie and I went back and forth about our options, which is when I remembered Pack Up + Go. It seemed to suit our needs: exciting, affordable travel expertly tailored to our priorities. The rest is history.

Table of Contents

What is Pack Up + Go?

As I previously mentioned, Pack Up + Go is a surprise travel agency. After completing a pre-trip survey and confirming your budget, they select your destination, book your tickets/reservations, and send you off (more on this later). All you have to do is, well, pack up and go! The type of trip you are sent on is completely customizable; whether you’re looking for a staycation, a quick, inexpensive road trip, or a lengthier, pricier plane trip, Pack Up + Go has you covered.

Currently, Pack Up + Go only plans surprise vacations within the United States. Click here to view a list of their destination cities. If you’d prefer to be sent on an international surprise vacation, you are still in luck, because many other surprise travel agencies are offering such packages; The Vacation Hunt is one of the most popular, although I cannot personally recommend them, as I have not booked with them myself.

My Surprise Vacation Experience with Pack Up + Go

Planning my trip with pack up + go.

Once I decided to surprise vacation through the Pack Up + Go travel agency, I started filling out my pre-trip survey. I had first to select my preferred mode of transportation, whether by plane or car; a staycation was also an option. I was then redirected to the full survey, in which I provided information such as my travel dates, places I do not want to go to/would not feel safe going to/have recently been to/will be going to soon, travel priorities, dietary restrictions, and hobbies/interests.

As I made my way through the survey, I also provided them with the information of each traveler, our preferred rooming arrangements, and our budget; I was notified that they plan a trip that fits within our budget and, if money were left over, they’d book activities for us. Pack Up + Go is a great service for budget travelers, as it does not allow you to spend more on flights and hotels than you allotted!

When filling out my survey, I made an error in my preferences. I called customer service; the representative made a note to my file, and I can now confirm that they took it into consideration.

To start your pre-trip survey, click here .

The Hints: Where Could I Be (Pack Up +) Going?

I booked in September 2021 for travel in June 2022, which means I had a long wait until I found out my destination. However, one week before departure, I received an email with some hints to help with packing and timing (and to hype us up, of course). This email told us the weather at our destination, what we should pack based on activities we’d likely be taking part in, airport and flight time information, and luggage allowances. We didn’t yet know the airline we would be flying or the duration of our flight, so there was still a lot of mystery!

Katie and I frantically looked up the weather and flight times in various U.S. cities to find out where we were headed, but we couldn’t crack the code.

The Reveal: Where I Packed Up + Went

A few days after receiving that email with our hints, the envelope disclosing our destination arrived in the mail. Pack Up + Go advises you to wait until the day of your trip to open the envelope, which, admittedly, I did not do (more on this in a bit). One day prior to departure, we received updated weather information via email.

Now, the moment we had been waiting for had finally arrived: the reveal. The destination was…New Orleans, Louisiana! At first, we were a bit puzzled (we could’ve swore we would be sent to Colorado), but the more we thought about it, the more we realized how perfect this destination was for us. We looked back at our pre-trip survey, and all of our answers aligned perfectly with New Orleans.

The reveal of our destination was not the only thing in the envelope. In fact, they gave us a folder full of information on New Orleans. First, and most importantly, the folder contained a packet with our itinerary; hotel accommodations and pre-planned activity information (two dinner reservations in our case) were included in this packet. It also had pages of restaurant and activity recommendations. Digging deeper into the folder, we found important and informational documents on our flight plan, the different areas of the city, how to get around, and good photo opportunities.

One thing I appreciated most upon finding out the flight information was that, although Katie and I were coming from different airports, we were to land in New Orleans at almost the exact same time. Amazing planning by Pack Up + Go!

My Experience During the Trip

The trip went very smoothly from start to finish. I was nervous about the flight times, as I had a short layover, but all of that worry was for nothing.

When we arrived at the hotel, check-in was a breeze. We stayed at the ACE Hotel, which was a great experience. Katie and I discussed how we wouldn’t have booked such a nice hotel if we planned this on our own; we never would’ve thought it was within our budget! It was located within walking distance from nearly every activity we planned.

Pack Up + Go set up two dinner reservations for us. We went to both, although they informed us that we could’ve canceled if we wanted. The first restaurant was not quite my taste, but the second served the best food I ever had in my life – no exaggeration (check out Jack Rose)!

Using the list of recommended sights and activities that Pack Up + Go provided, we built our itinerary; it was very helpful, as many of the activities we would not have found on our own (the bayou airboat tour was our favorite for sure). The list also helped us find some cool bars and live music.

If you’d like to find out more about what we did in New Orleans, Louisiana, stay tuned for an upcoming blog post on this!

Conclusion: To Pack Up + Go or Not to Go?

To conclude, if it were not already obvious, I would absolutely recommend booking your surprise vacation with Pack Up + Go. They meticulously planned a personalized vacation for us and left little room for things to go wrong.

I think everyone should take a surprise trip. Not having a choice in destination allows you to learn a lot about yourself as a traveler. It allowed me to be introspective and think about what I really want in a vacation. They did not choose the destination because it seemed cool, they chose it because it offered exactly what I was looking for. Now, this is something I always consider when planning. To learn more about how I incorporate my priorities into my vacation planning, check out episode 9 of the Runways and Byways Travel Podcast .

The only con I found throughout this experience was that Pack Up + Go does not offer international destinations. I love traveling within the U.S., but it isn’t always necessarily my go-to. This is not a sponsored post, so if there were more negatives, I would tell you! It really was the all-around perfect, convenient, yet insanely fun, trip. I can’t wait to find out where I’ll Pack Up + Go to next time!

If you want to hear Katie and I talk about this experience, check out episode 2 of the Runways and Byways Travel Podcast . Fun fact: the idea of our podcast was born on this trip!

Are you convinced? Click here to book your surprise vacation with Pack Up + Go.

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Do you think you’d plan a surprise vacation with Pack Up + Go? Contact me or let me know in the comments!

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Lifestyle , travel, surprise travel: the cure to vacation decision fatigue.

Do you ever crave a vacation getaway but have trouble deciding where to go? Do the pressures of decision-making lead you to procrastinate the planning of your next vacation? Look to surprise travel companies, who plan the trip for you and keep the destination completely secret until you step onto the plane. In this new trend, the thrill of the unknown adds to your adventure.

Companies like Pack Up + Go , Journee , and Magical Mystery Tours have gained popularity in the last five years for their customized vacation planning services. Keep reading for a free Sass-approved surprise daytrip itinerary! 

“We took our paper envelope with the trip details to the airport for a 5 a.m. flight, and opened it there,” said Rachel Vinciguerra of Pittsburgh, PA, who was sent to New Orleans by Pack Up + Go.

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Travel advisors have been around for decades – mapping out your itinerary, providing excursion suggestions, and listing the best places to grab a bite, but surprise travel companies add an element of mystery that caters especially to spontaneous travelers seeking a stress-free yet adventurous experience.

“As someone who is usually the planner for our trips, the idea of having someone else plan everything was really nice,” said Rachel Vinciguerra.

Planning Your Trip

The process begins with a survey that asks about your travel preferences.

“It was super easy. You put in your likes, dislikes, places you have already been, and places you don’t want to visit. I told them I like to keep busy, am a foodie, love fun cocktails, and go on adventures, and they planned it way better than I could have!” said Stephanie Schwartz of Clearwater, FL, who went on a surprise trip to Chicago.

Lisa Williams of Atlanta, GA went to Denver. “You actually get a weather forecast and a few suggested packing items about a week out. Flight departure times were also on that email. We were given just enough details to have no idea where we were going.”

The Wait and Surprise 

Anticipation, excitement, and perhaps a few nerves build in the days leading up to your mystery vacation. It is during this time that you receive an envelope revealing your trip destination.

“It just sits, tempting you, but we held out!” said Lisa Williams.

Some travelers wait to open their envelope until they arrive at the airport. Others may choose to have a more elaborate reveal, like Kendall Bush of Nashville, TN, who is a repeat client of Pack Up + Go.

“We have done this twice. The first time we had a reveal party, and it was fun to know ahead of time. The second time we found out once we got to our gate!”

What Do You Get?

Surprise travel companies provide a detailed itinerary, including a list of recommended excursions, coupons, and reservations.

“They gave us a list of activities, points of interest, and events. They had some activities booked for us and made a few meal reservations too. They included hotel details, transportation options, and an Uber voucher,” said Lisa Williams about Pack Up + Go.

“We saw every part of the city in five days, including the monuments, Fulton Market District, Old Town, and Millennium Park, and we still got to be foodies and shop,” said Stephanie Schwartz of her surprise trip to Chicago.

So Why Let Someone Else Plan Your Trip?

In a world where vacation planning can feel overwhelming and time-consuming, surprise travel companies offer a refreshing and adventurous alternative. More and more modern travelers are embracing the concept of leaving their vacation plans in the hands of experts, and the personalized itineraries do not disappoint.

“I appreciate the labor that went into curating our experience. The element of surprise left little room for expectations and I believe that also contributed to us being able to just go and enjoy what the city had to offer,” said Lisa Williams of her trip to Denver.

If you find yourself longing for a getaway, but can’t decide where to go, consider letting a surprise travel company craft a one-of-a-kind journey for you. You might just discover that the best adventures are the ones you never saw coming.

Start Your First Surprise Adventure

Now that you know all about surprise travel, we are excited to introduce a Sass-approved, surprise day trip in downtown Frederick! Perfect for a girls’ day, our curated experience will help you discover new eats, exciting activities, and must-see spots as you explore downtown in a new way.

To unlock the fully planned day of adventures, click below!

Lucy Curtis-Cherry

Lucy Curtis-Cherry is a student at Middlebury College studying American Studies and Film & Media Culture. As President of her school’s chapter of The Women’s Network, intern at Sass Magazine, and Marketing Coordinator for Escape This Frederick, Lucy is passionate about creative storytelling and female empowerment through community.

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What Is a Surprise Travel Agency?

Explore the world of mystery travel and find out how a surprise travel agency can help make your next trip extra exciting!

The days of the professional travel agent are all but gone now. With the advent of Airbnb and supersaver flight engines like Google Flights and Skyscanner, most intrepid travelers have found planning their own trip far more economical and fulfilling. But what about those you who hate travel planning? What if there was a way for you to leave all the details up to someone else, and we mean all the details? What if we were to tell you there is an option out there that affords you the ultimate adventure, with super minimal preparation, and no outrageous traditional travel agent fees? If this sounds good to you, then the surprise travel agency might be right up your alley. 

If you have never heard of a surprise travel agency, don’t fret. You are not alone. While this kind of travel has been around for a while, it has really taken the travel world by storm in the last few years. So, what is a surprise travel agency? Let’s dive into what they are, how they work, and if a surprise trip is right for you!

Pack Your Let’s Roam Adventure App

If you’re headed off on a mystery vacation, ask your surprise travel agency to ensure that cities nearby are on our list of scavenger hunt locations ! We cover over 400 cities in 18+ countries (and counting), and our highly-rated exploration app makes a perfect travel companion. Wherever you roam, consider including scavenger hunts , ghost tours , art walks, and pub crawls in your adventures!

What Is A Surprise Travel Agency?

A surprise travel agency is essentially a modern upgrade on the old-school travel agent. These virtual platforms plan your entire trip for you, including the location! That’s right, it’s a mystery vacation (hence the word, surprise )! You don’t even have to decide where you wanna go. It is all done for you based on the information that you provide on a quick survey. These agencies will book flights, intercountry transfers, rental cars, accommodations … all of it! They will even send itineraries of suggested activities based on your likes and dislikes. You even get to choose how much of the plan is accessible to you. You can decide to know every detail of your trip(which spoils the fun), or you can choose for it to be a total surprise vacation. Intrigued? Here’s how it works.

The Process Is Simple

With most surprise travel agencies, your whole input takes less than ten minutes. When you access the website, you will give them some basic information like name, email, and birthday. The platform will then take you through a series of questions that distinguish your travel style and what kind of getaway you would like. These include but are not limited to: your budget, any countries you would like to visit, and any activities you would specifically like to do. If you want a totally surprise trip, you do not have to answer these questions. You can just put in a budget and move on. The more questions you answer and the more detail you give, the more the travel agent can customize your trip. So give as little or as much info as you are comfortable with.

After the basic info, the questionnaire will then ask you about your personal travel style. These questions are more personality-based and cover areas of travel like your nightlife preference, your activity level, and your interests. FAQs include things like: Do you prefer budget or high-end accommodation? Are you willing to fly, or do you want a road trip? Do you feel comfortable taking public transit or do you prefer a rental car? Are you a nature-lover, city-dweller, or culture vulture? Most forums offer simple multiple-choice questions with an optional free-text box to include more information.

After the questionnaire is complete, you will be assigned to an online travel agent. They will work up a trip with your qualifications in mind and present it to you via phone or email. You will then have the ability to work one-on-one with them for the rest of the process. With some companies, you will be able to tweak your trip. They will alter your itinerary until you are perfectly happy with it! Other companies keep it a complete surprise, only revealing your itinerary on the day of travel. They will only give you the necessary information for your to pack and prepare appropriately.

 Obviously, there is a small agent fee for using these programs. However, that fee is minimized by how much you save through the company’s travel discounts. Plus, you must consider the hours you didn’t have to spend crunching every number and the stress you avoided. 

What Are The Perks?

These vacation packages are pretty awesome! Not only do they take into consideration all your personal preferences, but they add an element of surprise too. The fees are minimal. The travel agents are professional and have access to loads of discounts that are hard for travelers to find on their own, since the travel companies often have group discounts. 

Aside from saving money, using a surprise travel company saves you from hours of planning and stress. For some travelers, the preparation is part of the fun! But, for others, it’s an unnecessary amount of pressure. These guys take all the worry and stress out of the vacation hunt!

Who Is A Surprise Destination Best For?

Some of you are reading this thinking, “Oh my gosh, that sounds so fun!”  Others, not so much. Some of you are terrified at the thought of showing up at the airport having no idea where you are going, what you are doing, and if you will like it. Some of you aren’t sure which camp you’re in. We get it! Vacations are expensive. There is a lot of money at stake. Americans also don’t just have an abundance of vacation days to burn on somewhere that doesn’t interest us. No one wants to regret their vacation choice and have it be too late to do anything about it! (Rest assured, this is extremely unlikely!)

If you are wondering if a surprise vacation is right for you, we don’t blame you for being skeptical. Obviously, you need a sense of adventure to let someone else book your whole precious vacation. As discussed earlier, the level of secrecy is completely up to you with most of these companies, so take a breath. You will likely know where you are going and what you are doing before you pay. 

We find there are a few types of people who love these trips. The first are people who have little to no experience in trip planning. If it is your first time taking a big trip, and you need a little help, this is a great option. The second group is people who just want to get away. If everywhere is on your bucket list, then this type of trip is perfect for you. The final group is intrepid travelers. If you have traveled to a lot of destinations, and you just want a trip that you don’t have to go through all your normal weeks of planning and number crunching, then a surprise vacation might be great for you. Intrepid travelers are generally comfortable in a large variety of destinations and situations, so no matter where the surprise vacation takes them, they are good to go!

Where To Find A Surprise Trip

There are several great companies out there that offer surprise trips. Some specialize in solo travel, others in weekend getaways. Some do only the US, while others offer international travel options. Each operates on the same basic premise, but with variance in the details. Let’s take a look at some of the best out there and what they have to offer.

Pack Up + Go

Pack Up + Go are the weekend getaway specialists. Founded by Pittsburgh native, Lillian Rafson, in 2016, this company comes highly rated for weekend trips. Though you can book a longer trip, they are pros at the two-night, three-day vacation. This company works within the United States, generally sending customers to mid-sized American cities, within 4-6 hours from their home. This company limits its services to transportation and accommodation, so activities are on you. 

Their process is a total surprise for the customer. You fill out a detailed questionnaire, and then Pack Up +Go will design and book your trip. One week before you leave, you will receive a packet with the weather forecast, a suggested packing list, and directions to your departure point. Another envelope arrives a few days before the trip. This one is meant to remain closed until you reach your destination. It includes directions to your accommodation, a list of recommended activities, and maps. 

Pack Up +Go does the whole trip based on your total budget. They take 15% out for themselves and then use the other 85% towards your trip. We think this is a bit steep for the services offered. As stated, they only find and book accommodation and travel, so the rest is still up to you, but if you really don’t like planning, then it might be worth the fee for you. 

That being said, Pack +Go has excellent testimonials and write-ups online, by seasoned travelers. Their agents are knowledgeable and crazy helpful, even during your trip, should something not go as planned. Just don’t wait until the last minute because you must start the process at least four weeks before your departure date. This company makes it easy. You don’t need to do anything—just pack up and go—hehe!

The Vacation Hunt

The Vacation Hunt is a true mystery trip, complete with excitement-inducing clues. It works in a very similar manner to the latter, as far as the survey goes. However, The Vacation Hunt breaks down their trip options into mystery categories. Customers choose a package, with a set price, from “All-American Adventures”, “International Intrigue”, “European Escape”, and “All-Inclusive Resorts.”  Prices are quoted for couples and solo travel and range from $750/person to $4500/person. 

Once you have done your part, you will receive periodic clues about your trip via social media, increasing the suspense! You will again receive emails with pertinent packing and weather information about a week beforehand and receive your mailed envelope with specific information a few days before your departure

This company focuses on destinations that are well known with good tourism infrastructure and reliable public transit. Their packages include flights, accommodations, a limited amount of activities, and taxes and fees. You will have time and flexibility to add other activities of your liking from their recommended list or do your own thing!

Magical Mystery Tours

First of all, can we give these guys primo props on the company name? Bravo guys! Not only would the Beatles approve, but several other big names do too. They even got a rec from the Big O(Oprah) and Vogue, so they gotta be good! 

Magical Mystery Tours is one of the oldest companies on the list, making surprise trips happen since 2009. It started as a trip for a close friend. He needed a getaway and didn’t have time to plan. So, the cofounders planned it for him. He loved it so much that they decided to turn their idea into a company, “the original mystery travel provider.” It works the same as the others, as far as the survey and the total mystery goes. Your little red folder will contain all your trip information, and Magical Mystery Tours highly encourages you not to look until you get to the airport terminal! 

Their trips start at $1100/person for solo travel and $1500/person for two or more people. They take a fee of 7-15%, with a  $300 minimum, depending on your trip size. Make sure to book early, as there is a fee for anything booked within 8 weeks of your travel date, and the fee increases as the time to departure decreases. These guys are the originals, and they know how to plan a magical trip!

Black Tomato

Luxury travel specialists, Black Tomato , have gotten in on the surprise game too! Their trips are something extra though. They still do all kinds of traditional luxury travel, but that isn’t our concern here. Let’s talk about their incredible “Get Lost” services. 

This one is for the true adventurer. You answer one question on this survey, and that is your environment preference. Choices include Polar, Coastal, Mountain, Jungle, or Desert. You then enter your budget. Average trips for “Get Lost” are around $15,000/person, but they include everything you need. You will book 6 months in advance because these trips require training, which Black Tomato will advise on or book for you. 

A private transfer will take you to your first destination where you will be outfitted with your kit and equipment. This equipment varies by trip but includes a satellite telephone and, specialized clothing, and navigational technology. You will be given a starting point, an ending point, and several check-in points along the way. Then, you will head out into the wilderness and chart your course. It will just be you and nature from that point on, with the help of some satellite friends if necessary. Once you emerge from the wild, you will be greeted with nothing but luxury and decadence as a reward for your difficult journey! 

You can also feel comfortable booking with this company. Not only do they cover every single detail that you would expect an experienced luxury travel agency to consider, but they back it all up with their “State of Flex” policy. It accounts for the pandemic and allows cancellation and refunds for travel that becomes impossible. They offer some pretty incredible alternative trips too, with innovative themes like the “Drone the World,” where you travel the world from a bird’s eye view, and “Take Me On A Story,” which designs a trip to a destination featured in a beloved book or story! They really are quite imaginative.

It’s a rare company that combines this kind of adventure with this level of luxury. Travelers tend to either be the all-inclusive crowd or adventure backpackers. We rarely get a chance to be both. That’s what makes this concept so intriguing don’t you think?! 

Rustic Pathways

Rustic Pathways is another specialty group on the list. For almost 40 years, they have been exposing students to the world in a safe and educational manner. They create an incredible itinerary for your teen, complete with cultural emersion and community service. The company started with 8-week backpacking tours into the Australian Outback but has grown to include partners all over the world. They also have a 501c3 organization that has given back over $500,000 to their partner organizations for continued community projects. Your teen not only gets the surprise adventure of a lifetime, but they will learn about a new culture, give back to the world, and certainly gain a love for travel and exploration! 

Not all their tours are mysteries, so you don’t have to be that brave. However, if you choose the mystery trip, you will be sent a Patagonia duffel bag with all the details you need in advance. It will include packing lists and clues about your destination to help you prepare. Trip costs vary by destination but are reasonable for the amount of preparation, protection, and education they provide. We love the idea of this company, and so do over 10,000 students a year!

Is A Surprise Trip Right For You?

Surprise travel agencies are an ingenious idea, and I think most of us would agree that it is an interesting concept. But is it right for you? Well, you won’t really know until you try it. These guys are certainly experts and have access to great deals and destinations. We would say if you are a control freak or have anxiety issues, then this kind of trip probably isn’t for you. However, if you are a “go with the flow” kind of person and up for an adventure, then we say give it a go! 

Maybe for your first mystery trip, try something within North America. The pandemic is raging its ugly head with yet another strain of this stupid virus, so your next trip is probably unpredictable anyways. Seems like now is the perfect time to take a chance on a surprise trip! 

Closing Thoughts

What do you think about this surprise trip concept? Is it something you would ever try? Let us know in the comments! 

Looking for a getaway with your love? Check out our list of “ The Best Honeymoon Destination For Post-Wedding Adventure .”

If you’ve made it this far, then you are most likely an adventurous traveler, looking for something new. Take a look at our list of “ The Most Underrated Travel Destinations To Add To Your Bucket List .”

Frequently Asked Questions

Surprise travel agencies are companies that offer virtual travel experiences to unknown destinations! You answer a short survey, and they do the rest!

Surprise trips are easy to book!  There are several great surprise travel companies  to choose from, all with easy-to-use platforms and customizable trip plans.

Looking for something adventurous to do with your spouse or family?  Consider booking a trip with a mystery travel agency or surprise your loved one with a scavenger hunt in a new city .

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Sherri Jackson 615-906-5207

Surprise trips anywhere in the United States designed especially for YOU!

Equal Opportunity travel planner. We will not discriminate against those who do not like surprises.

My Background

I am a former career banker, turned office manager/comptroller of a manufacturing company in Nashville, TN with a fierce love of travel. I love to travel anywhere, anytime for any reason. I enjoy the planning part almost as much as the actual travel part.  Every detail, every off the beaten path activity and every sight seeing thing! I have two young adult kids who are the loves of my life. I have enjoyed traveling with them and seeing them both find cities with which they feel an instant connection. Mine is New York City, and theirs are Chicago and Atlanta.  

How I Got Started

I remember going to Florida with my girlfriends in the 80s with $20 to my name!  Proof that I have always been ready to go anytime, anywhere.  Since then I have been fortunate enough to travel all over the US with both friends and family and sometimes I even have more than $20!  :) In 2010, one of my BFFs (Sharon) took me on a surprise trip to cheer me up. It was a blast! Since then, we take turns every other year planning a surprise for each other. My travel partners, besides my friends, are my 2 kids, my sister and lots of first cousins who also share my love for travel.  I am very thankful for it all.  

Top Destinations

I made a decision years ago to try and see as much of the US before venturing to other countries. So, for now, my travel passion is anywhere in the states with New York City being my favorite. I am quickly gaining a new love for the mountains, in particular, Utah and Colorado. I love that there's always something going on in bigger cities but also appreciate the need for some down time in slower, calmer places.

Everyone Likes Surprises No one Likes to Plan Them

Let me do ALL the scheduling 

and ALL the planning for you!  You simply fill out a questionnaire so I can get to know you better and leave the rest to me! 

The Suspense is Exhilarating

It's way more fun to pack for a surprise trip when you aren't exhausted from doing all the planning and prep work. All you have to do is show up with your luggage!  

Enjoy your Vacation

Whether a weekend getaway or a week long adventure, give me a budget and I'll make it happen! 

Announcement

Dream world travel and destination unknown.

Two travel agencies created uniquely for

those who love surprises

(and those who don't)

I am excited to announce the merger of DreamWorld Travel and Destination Unknown!

Nicole Backlin at DreamWorld has been Dickson's go-to travel planner for 20 plus years

But now, she's ready to retire and has given me the opportunity to merge with

DreamWorld. It's the perfect addition to Destination Unknown. Now we can officially be

your one-stop-shop for all things travel, surprise or not!

Sherri Jackson, owner

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The Bahamas Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 26, 2024, the bahamas - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated with additional water safety information.

Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to  crime . 

Country Summary : The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.   

 Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications.  Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities. Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.   

Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills.  Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities. Be mindful of sharks when swimming and engaging in water activities, as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks.  Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings. 

Read the country information page  for additional information on travel to The Bahamas. 

If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:  

• Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.  
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.  
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .  
• Review the Country Security Report  for The Bahamas.  
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .  
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

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Indonesia, Philippines recognized as top 2024 travel destinations

The 31st World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony, held in the Philippines on Sept. 3, honored destinations and businesses across the region for their outstanding contributions to the travel industry. Dubbed the "Oscars of the travel industry," the event saw significant wins for Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia and the Philippines.

“Must-visit” Philippines : The 2024 WTA saw the Philippines bagging eight major awards , including Asia’s leading dive destination, Asia’s leading beach destination, Asia’s leading island destination and Asia's leading tourist attraction 2024 for the historic walled city of Intramuros. WTA founder Graham Cooke lauded the country for successfully hosting the event, proclaiming it a “must-visit” destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.

Other major awards : Indonesia secured the title of Asia's Leading Adventure Tourism Destination, highlighting the country’s growing reputation as a premier destination for adventure seekers, surpassing previous winners Japan, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Hong Kong International Airport was crowned Asia's Leading Airport for the second year in a row, while Singapore Airlines continued its reign as Asia's Leading Airline for the sixth consecutive year. The airline also secured accolades as Asia's leading airline - first class and Asia's leading airline to the Indian Ocean.

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Seven Southern Travel Destinations that Celebrate the Quiet Life

By Crai Bower

September 10, 2024

Photo: Courtesy of Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Call it slow, unplugged, or quiet travel; more vacationers are seeking time away from the noise of daily life. The Global Wellness Institute predicts that trend will continue well into 2027, with travelers searching for “recovery retreats,” “healing,” and even specialized sleep-quality-focused getaways.

For those desiring a sense of calm or simply looking to disappear for a while, here are seven places that conjure up a contented sigh.

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Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Little Torch Key, Florida 

Traveling to a private island (aboard a vintage Chris-Craft, no less) connotes “getaway” like few other experiences. You won’t find TVs on Little Palm Island, not that you’d want to crane your neck from your suspended beach bed anyway. Greet the sunrise with a yoga class, then paddle the day away in a kayak before slipping into the Balinese spa for a muscle reset. 

Lakeview at Fontana

Bryson City, North Carolina

Forest bathing carries a whole new meaning when you experience a “soaking cabana” at this charming getaway in the Great Smokies. Set your OOO message (no in-room WiFi here) and unplug during a ninety-minute soak in an oversized tub overlooking a lake and surrounding forest. This is true private bliss; settle into your fully appointed farmhouse-style suite, and count on seeing almost no one at this “unhosted” property, where even the bath and body boutique and food “market” operate on the honor system. 

Primland Resort Tree Houses

Meadows of Dan, Virginia

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Primland (@primlandauberge)

Imagine a sunset viewed from a treehouse deck followed by deep slumber after which, come morning, a continental breakfast awaits at your front door. Perched at 2,700 feet above sea level, two bespoke red cedar cabins unveil expansive views of Pilot Mountain and the Kibler Valley, the former best viewed from the soaking tub. The 450-square-foot Mountain Top Tree House adds an outdoor shower and four-person hot tub, ideal for leaf peeping and stargazing as your cares shoot out of sight.

Treetop Hideaways at Ruby Falls

Chattanooga, Tennessee

From the hideouts of Robinson Crusoe to Peter Pan, treehouses have always invoked a sense of fantasy. Treetop Hideaways take arboreal living to another level with petrified wood sinks, secret-door bookcases, and floor-to-ceiling windows that seem to invite the surrounding forest inside. Each treehouse sleeps at least four should you choose to bring the Lost Boys. Peter would.

Red River Gorgeous Wilderness Treehouse & Cabin Rentals

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Red River Gorgeous – Vacation Rentals (@redriver_gorgeous_cabinrentals)

Ever wonder, as the alerts ping incessantly, what life would be like off the grid? Find out by booking a stay at a Red River Gorgeous cabin. Spend your unbusy days exploring Mill Creek Lake and Red River Gorge by paddle and hiking trail, floating into a granite-anchored “cliff house,” or inhabiting the (geodesic) Dome Town perched in the tree canopy.

The Summit at Big Bend

Terlingua, Texas

With so much modern cacophony, it’s only fitting that some of us might choose to reenter the cave. Etched into the side of Tres Cuevas Mountain, the two cozy domiciles at the Summit are hardly our prehistoric ancestors’ accommodations, given the shower for two and the king-size bed overlooking the near-infinite Chihuahuan Desert. However, the power of fire remains, with a stone firepit on your private terrace to warm the cool evening air.    

Cove Point Keeper’s House

Lusby, Maryland

The solitary life of the lightkeeper is well documented throughout maritime history. Individuals sequestered on the edge of the world with few interruptions save their daily duty to the adjacent beacon—sounds lovely, no? Constructed in 1828, these lighthouse keeper’s quarters maintain their original character with eyebrow windows, pinewood floors, and a broad screened-in porch. The private beach invites still more musings while you gaze upon the Chesapeake Bay.

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Tourist taxes are 'surging' at these ten major holiday destinations, travellers warned

Tourist taxes are being brought in around the world to help combat overtourism, however, they can come as a surprise to travellers who haven't budgeted for the extra cost.

• 12:32, 13 SEP 2024

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Leading travel website Thrillist have put together research that shows ten incredibly popular destinations where tourist taxes are "surging".

The taxes take several different forms, but these fees and daily charges all have one key aim: to try and combat the negative impacts of excessive tourism, such as environmental damage or increased costs for locals.

Natalia Bayona, executive director of UN Tourism told National Geographic : “Tourist taxes can play a significant role in how destinations manage tourism flows. But the implementation of these fees is also designed to deliver more of the economic benefits that tourism offers back to the host communities.”

However, these taxes are very varied in how they're applied. Some countries and cities add the tax to the cost of your hotel room, others charge a flat rate.

It was recently reported that Greece is also considering implementing tourist taxes for cruise passengers, with a plan to charge disembarking visitors to Santorini and Mykonos €20 each .

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has unveiled the plans in an attempt to address issues of overtourism plaguing the popular destinations.

Current tourist taxes around the world

Amsterdam: 12.5% of overnight stay (compared to previous 7%); for cruises, tourist tax is €11 per person per day.

Bali: 150,000 IDR (approximately £8) per person.

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Barcelona : €4 starting in October (only paid for the first seven consecutive days).

Iceland: 333 ISK (approximately £1.85) per overnight stay; for cruises, 1000 ISK (approximately £5.50) per overnight stay.

Manchester: £1 per room per night.

New Zealand: From October, NZ$100 per visit to the country (about £47).

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Olhão, Portugal: €2 per night during high season (April to October) and €1 during the rest of the year (November to March) for a maximum of five nights in a row.

Thailand: One-time fees of 300 baht (approximately £7) if arriving by air and 150 baht (approximately £3.50) if arriving by land or water

Venice, Italy: €5 for daily visitors (overnight travelers and locals are exempt).

Valencia, Spain: Visitors to Valencia will soon be required to pay between 50 cents and €2 per night for a maximum of 7 nights.

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La Casa de la Playa by Hoteles Xcaret

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Riviera Maya: La Casa de la Playa by Hoteles Xcaret Limited-Time Package

Discover a home away from home at this luxury, boutique all-inclusive resort, which caters exclusively to guests ages 16 and older. The resort features several elevated culinary experiences including four gourmet restaurants, four contemporary bars, a wine cellar, and a chocolate boutique. Additional resort amenities include two pools, a 131-foot swimming lane, an elegant spa with a hydrotherapy circuit, and a fitness center. Guests will also enjoy unlimited access to select nature parks and tours, including Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, and will have access to exclusive tailor-made experiences within select parks. In addition, guests will have all-inclusive access to the adjacent properties, Hotel Xcaret Mexico and Hotel Xcaret Arte.

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Discover a home away from home at this luxury, boutique all-inclusive resort, which caters exclusively to guests ages 16 and older. The resort features several elevated culinary experiences including four gourmet restaurants, four contemporary bars, a wine cellar, and a chocolate boutique. Additional resort amenities include two pools, a 131-foot swimming lane, an elegant spa with a hydrotherapy circuit, and a fitness center. Guests will also enjoy unlimited access to select nature parks and tours, including Xcaret, Xel-Há, Xplor, Xplor Fuego and Xcaret Xailing Experiences, and will have access to exclusive tailor-made experiences within select parks.

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