US Passports opened to show stamps

Trusted Traveler Programs – Revisited!

In an effort to strike a balance between national security and a smoother travel experience for passengers, the United States has implemented a range of Trusted Traveler Programs. While the programs are all closely related, choosing the best one for you really depends on how and where you travel. To help you decide, check out Read more…

A passport sticking out of a suitcase.

A Primer on Airline Baggage Policies

Navigating airline baggage policies can be daunting, with rules varying widely between carriers and even between routes. Whether you’re flying across continents or taking a quick regional trip, understanding these policies is essential to avoid unexpected fees or hassles at the airport. This article outlines some common elements of the baggage policies of airlines you’re Read more…

A family in Antarctica

Christmas in Antarctica

BY SYDNEY HORAN, Special Correspondent About the Author: Sydney Horan is the eldest daughter of Travel Beyond Owners, Craig and Kay Beal. Sydney and her sister Kyndall embarked on a holiday cruise with their parents. This is their story! I loved the thrill of setting sail on an expedition to Antarctica with my family over Read more…

Penguins in Antarctica

Antarctica: Planning a Trip to the Frozen Continent

Traveling to Antarctica is otherworldly. It’s mysteriously vast – an endless kingdom of ice, snow, and infinite ocean. Regarded as the “international continent” by some, Antarctica tells a fascinating tale of adventure, scientific discovery, and worldwide cooperation. Scientists live and work on bases 365 days a year – even through brutally cold and snowy winters Read more…

The National Geographic Resolution in Greenland

A Wild Greenland Escape

In July 2024, Craig and I set sail in western Greenland with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. We were aboard the National Geographic Resolution, and it proved to be a lovely and comfortable homebase from which to explore. Onboard National Geographic Resolution Expedition cruising offers the unique advantage of traveling on a smaller ship, allowing for daily Read more…

A rhino in Zimbabwe.

Singita Pamushana: A Little Slice of Heaven

Singita Pamushana is a slice of heaven here on Earth, located in a stunning and picturesque habitat in remote southeastern Zimbabwe. The name is perfect, as Singita means “place of miracles” and Pamushana means “a place in the sun.” Combined together this name truly reflects the special paradise of this safari lodge. From the moment Read more…

A baby mountain gorilla with his mother in Uganda.

Mountain Gorilla Census: Uganda & Rwanda

Updated as of February 13, 2025 (Note: Census numbers are generally updated every five years, depending on the financial resources available to the local organizations conducting the count.) The success of mountain gorilla conservation efforts in Uganda and Rwanda stands as a testament to the power of dedicated conservation initiatives. Through collaborative efforts between governments, Read more…

Wine barrels at Vik Winery in Chile.

A Stay at Vik Chile

Located 100 miles southwest of the capital city of Santiago, you’ll find the gem of a retreat known as Vik Chile. Founded by Alex and Carrie Vik in 2006, Chile’s Millahue Valley is the backdrop for this scenic winery and retreat. The valley, named the “Golden Place” by the native Mapuche people, boasts over 10,000 Read more…

On a Kenya Safari: Big Tusker Elephants

Kenya’s “Shoulder Season”

For many, Kenya and Tanzania are synonymous with seeing the iconic Great Migration. However, these two countries both offer so much more than the chance to see massive herds of wildebeest and zebra crossing rivers and roaming in their annual pattern in search of greener grasses. Those focusing on the Great Migration and hoping to Read more…