Our goal has always been to take guests beyond the guidebooks, crafting journeys that uncover the heart and soul of each destination. And no one knows those places better than our Tauck Directors. With decades of experience and a passion for discovery, they bring destinations to life in ways only a true insider can. So, we asked them to share their favorite travel insights – from hidden gems and unforgettable dishes to local traditions that surprise and delight. We’ll continue compiling their answers here, creating a one-of-a-kind collection of expert advice and unexpected discoveries.
What do you think is the best thing about guided travel for guests?
“Peace of mind. I hear it at least twice a tour. Guests love that Tauck is there for them every step of the way. Another thing I hear quite often is – I would have NEVER found this if I did this tour without Tauck on my own!”
“The personal touch that a guide brings to the tour. Our guests feel taken care of and safe.”
“You see the things you’d pass by on your own.”
“We are able to bring them to beautiful, historic places where they can have accessible, comfortable and unique experiences, make new friends and try new things.”
Where is your favorite region/destination to travel and why?
“Italy – South of Italy, for the warmth of the people, the beauty of the sighs, the History and the Art, the food and the wine, the less crowded sights and almost complete lack of overtourism.”
“I work in 17 different countries and that’s what I like most about by job: the diversity and the learning off so many different histories (which are more closely connected than you’d think) and cultures. If I had to pick a favorite though, I would go with the Upper Danube: lots of different cultures and languages, foods that are different and yet the same and people that get along today even though didn’t always use to in the past.”
“Asia! Inexpensive, interesting culture, great food, friendly people. Fabulous sites and scenic landscapes to visit. Good infrastructure to travel. Great overall vibe. Variety of destinations from peaceful retreats and countrysides to busy, bustling cities.”
What is your favorite season to travel and why?
“Off season. I’m not a big crowd person when I’m traveling solo. As long as you’re dressed for the weather, the world is a beautiful place. I like to find a quiet space to read, write or paint.”
What are some great things to do or see during free time on tour?
“There’s landmark museums everywhere, but if those are not what makes you happy, spend some time with your fellow travelers over a coffee, observe the world go by and have a moment of connection.”
“Local markets, off the beaten path neighborhoods, museums, join a food tour/experience.”
Fun (or Useful) phrases to learn in other languages?
“Andiamo!”
“I truly appreciate you. Thank you, please, excuse me.”
What do you do to overcome jet lag?
“I try to go to sleep normally, per the new destination’s day/night cycle.”
“Prestay!”
What is something that you never leave home without?
“I have a process where I use the metal hangers to hang all my clothes in the closet at home, then remove all as one unit, roll into thirds, then put in suitcase. When I have reached my destination, I remove the “Clothes Burrito” and unroll and hang it up as one unit. Instantly unpacked.”
“My slippers, fanny pack, sunglasses, sweater or coat with pockets.”
“Patience and an open and positive travel attitude. Sunglasses & fedora.”
Where can you find the best gifts?
“At an open-air local market/flea market.”
“Museum giftshops – some of them are better than the actual museum!”
“Don’t look for them… often they’ll find you.”
What’s a common misconception about one of your destinations that surprises guests?
“Guests are often suprised that US Dollars are not accepted as a payment option in some places”
“Camels aren’t native to the Middle East – they actually originated in North America and were even used during the Civil War.”
“That people in France can be friendlier and more welcoming than expected!”
“Guests think the Autobahn is Germany is ONE special highway where you can drive fast, but ‘Autobahn’ is literally just the German word of highway.”
“Alaska is not always cold, and can feel HOT!”
What is one thing that a guest should bring when traveling, above anything else?
“Curiosity and an open mind for unconventional experiences.”
“A swimming suit! I always find a place where to go swimming!”
“A light rain coat and a small, foldable umbrella.”
“Something nice and personal, like their own soap, their own tea bags, nice pajamas.”
What is the most underrated experience for your destination?
“Taking the time to converse with the local people/staff along the way. Without taking the time to exchange ideas and getting to know the local people, you will miss out on one of the most extraordinary cultures on planet earth.”
“The Moselle. One quintessential charming village after another. Each photograph prettier than the one before.”
“Playing petanque (a popular French outdoor game similar to bocce) in Viviers on the Rhone Cruise.”
“Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic.”
What is the most unique local custom or tradition you’ve seen guests experience?
“Going into a field with bulls and learning about the life of a Manadier (a rancher or herder) in Camargue in southern France.”
“There is a performance on Sakura Seas: Japan & South Korea on the ship by a local music school. They are fantastic! And really adorable.”
“Dinner Bedouin style in a tent at little Petra. Local Jordanian dishes in an incredible starlit, archaeological setting.
“Taking a Vespa tour in Saigon.”
“The masquerade lunch in Český Krumlov Castle in the Czech Republic.”
What is the best region for food and the best dish in that region?
“Quenelles in Lyon, France.”
“Lomo saltado in Peru.”
“Schnitzel in Vienna, Austria./p>
“The best ice cream counters in Cochem, Germany.”
“Pasteis de Toucinho, or bacon tart in Evora, Portugal”
What is a time you had to be the hero?
“I helped a guest find his lost passport as we were making our way from London to Paris. Thankfully it was just at the hotel and he didn’t have to go get a new one at the American Embassy. He was even able to get on a later train and rejoin our group for a cruise and dinner on the Seine River.”
“Despite some major challenges in Portugal including severe weather to power outages, our group embraced it all, calling it ‘an adventure.’ No matter how we had to adjust the itinerary, our guests stayed flexible and upbeat, and we always ensured their comfort. Most importantly, we got them where we promised we would. Captain Vasco was ahead of every curve, navigating us to places other ships simply couldn’t reach.”
“I usually email a video link to my guests the night before our visit to Evora. Then, at the end of the city tour, I surprise them with a selection of these tarts for them to try!”
What’s something guests can do in your tour destinations that locals really appreciate?
“Learn some of the language – even a simple ‘thank you’ shows the locals that you appreciate and respect their culture.”
“Abide by their customs and rules”
“Interact with the locals, if you’re sitting in a French café, observe life and start a conversation with your neighbor!”
I have never been disappointed with a Tauck tour. Tauck takes care of everything and always adds special things. So glad to see Peter P comment. He was my first Tauck tour director 20+ years ago in Australia and New Zealand. Congratulations on your 100 year anniversary.