A good dream should never be rushed. It takes time to explore the places our dreams take us, time to appreciate the escape and let that joyful serenity sink into our bones.

Due to our current global situation, time is something many of us have more of lately. It’s an unexpected benefit — a balm to help soothe the pain of disruption. Which makes now a great time to sit back, relax and let our minds wander free.

Each Thursday over the next few months, we’ll send you inspiring ideas to fill that extra time and those dreams with travel. We ask that you virtually and mentally explore from the comfort of your armchair, couch or bed, letting your mind wander the earth to sample a world of experiences.

When this crisis ends, and you are ready to turn those travel dreams into reality, you can rely on our agency. We are here for you, whenever you need us.

Pop in your Bluetooth earphones and visit breathtaking national parks, ancient and modern wonders, and some of the finest museums in the world. No lines, no bad weather — just you and your bucket list.

Looking for something new to pick up at your local independent bookstore or download on your e-reader? Browse our favorite travel-themed titles for a healthy dose of wanderlust.

“The Art of Travel”
by Alain de Botton
This philosophical examination of why and how we travel goes around the world and throughout history to describe, in poetic detail, the pleasure of anticipating a journey, the magnetic allure of the exotic and the value of observation.

“Tracks”
by Robyn Davidson
A frank and funny account of a courageous young woman’s journey through the Australian desert, where she learns a lot about herself and her companions: a dog and four camels.

“Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure”
by Sarah Macdonald
A woman who vowed never to return to India returns to India. The resulting story is one of discovery and adventure in this land of beauty and chaos.

“Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness”
by Edward Abbey
A real-life account of a famed writer spending a season working as a ranger at Arches National Park, where he attempts to experience nature in its purest form.

“Turn Right at Machu Picchu:
Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time”
by Mark Adams
Laugh-out-loud account of an adventure travel expert (who has never been on an actual adventure) attempting to re-create the original expedition to Machu Picchu.

Real stories on how travel advisors aided their clients during the outbreak and disruption of COVID-19.

“I want to thank you and your staff for the help in getting us home from our Oceania cruise. We were to fly home from Tokyo, but when notice of the trip being cut short came, and we were being diverted to Dubai to disembark, your email to offer assistance to re-book our flights (that we had booked on our own) was happily accepted. In just 90 minutes from our initial response, while we went and enjoyed dinner, your email with new, confirmed flights home arrived, taking a huge load off our minds. How were we going to do it without phone service and spotty ship internet service? Having run a business for over 40 years, I appreciate that your level of customer service was spectacular. Your subsequent offer to help any friends we met onboard was also very appreciated. Thanks again for your help.”

Rick S.
Nantucket, Massachusetts

Look out for another installment of Armchair Explorer next week!

And feel free to contact our agency about any travel questions you have.

Until next time …

“The best dreams happen when you’re awake.”
-Cherie Gilderbloom