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At Take A Break Travel, we believe in transforming vacations into cherished memories without breaking the bank. Join us in redefining affordable travel-where every break becomes an adventure.

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We offer the finest Resort Vacation packages in the marketplace at the absolute lowest rates available…GUARANTEED! Our 25+ years of vacation experience, combined with our considerable buying power, allows us to negotiate incredible vacation package deals in the most desirable locations around the country!

View our amazing HOT DEALS that we have thoughtfully created for you and your family, and then compare our rates to any popular online travel sites, so you can truly appreciate the amazing savings we’re offering to you.

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Guest Reviews

What our resort travelers have to say

The property has a generous assortment of accommodations, recreation, and restaurants. Our condo was spacious and well furnished, clean and in good repair. The location of the resort was convenient to the airport, friends, Disney, shopping and golf. It is right next door to a grocery store.

This property is absolutely beautiful! The balcony overlooks the gorgeous pool. We enjoyed breakfast out on the balcony. The resort is clean, and the staff is very friendly. It’s close to many gift shops, grocery stores and restaurants. We visited Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Epcot. There is a full kitchen in the unit, and ours had a washer and dryer. Parking is free, and there is an ample amount of it.

A beautiful resort, with many amenities. The units were impeccably clean, up-to-date, well equipped, and the grounds were well kept and pleasant. The free transportation to the theme parks was an added plus.

My family had an amazing stay here the first week of October. The area is beautiful, the condos all have incredible views of the woods, mountains, ponds, and golf courses. Everything is well maintained, and if there is anything that is missing from your room they bring it right to your condo for you! They are so accommodating, they have a shuttle service that will pick you up and take you to any of the awesome amenities. The amenities were all free including the mini golf which we really enjoyed. They have so much to do right on the property and only a few minutes’ drive from wineries, and breweries, candle shops, restaurants, and grocery stores. The director Chantal was extremely kind and helpful, and it was clear that they really value their customers and ensuring that they have a great stay. I have already recommended this place to friends and family, and we will definitely return ourselves!

I can’t say enough about the amazing accommodations I had and the incredible staff that took the time to assist us. This was by far the most positive experience I have had since coming to Vegas in the past fifty years. The gaming floor was clean and a pleasure to be at. I felt comfortable being there late at night! Security was always an issue in the past but here they were visible at all times. Especially in the late hours. Restaurants were spot on with great food and friendly staff. A terrific selection. The casino host was always available when needed. The Strat made you feel like family and they took care of your issues immediately. It was easy to maneuver around the Casino and the signage was excellent. Did not have to leave the property. Even the valet was accommodating! It was a pleasure to find a hotel that meets all your needs under one roof. It was a great experience.

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“An amazing trip, from the views and the food to the wonderful people I met on the trip. Everything was thought out so well that I didn’t spend any of my time stressing like I would have if I had gone by myself!”

—Savannah D., traveled to Germany, Italy & Switzerland

Is EF Ultimate Break Legit & Worth It? A Full Review [2024]

You've just heard about EF Ultimate Break tours and you see that you're within age range, but even so, are they the right tour for you? EF Ultimate Break is great, but it’s not for everyone. Find out why in my in-depth review so you can be in the know before you buy their tours!

Some travelers like to take the wheel and plan their own trips. Some travelers would like to hand over the wheel to someone else and get in the passenger seat. 

Tour operators are for the latter. They take care of the planning and organizing, so you can focus on traveling and experiencing the itinerary that’s designed for you. 

We've covered tours like Contiki and Intrepid Travels before, but what about EF Ultimate Break?

I'm here to introduce EF Ultimate Break to you and give you all the details you should know...

EF Ultimate Break has earned an impressive reputation as a reliable tour guide company for young adults. But, factors like age limit and fixated itineraries mean that it might not be for everyone. 

So, in this article, I want to give you a comprehensive review on EF Ultimate Break to help you decide if it’s a sensible choice for you!

What Is EF Ultimate Break?

EF Ultimate Break , formerly known as EF College Break, is a travel company that specializes in providing guided group tours for different destinations around the world.

Founded in 2003, it’s a branch under EF Tours initiated more than 50 years ago. As you would have already guessed, EF Ultimate Break is not for everyone. It’s geared towards travelers aged 18-29 (sorry, old folks!), primarily college students hunting for fun, adventurous, carefree, and novel experiences. 

Besides travelers who loathe planning, EF Ultimate Break is also a good option for people just beginning to explore the world and prefer an expert to handle the logistics for them.

What Are the Main Features of EF Ultimate Break?

Here's a quick rundown on the main features that EF Ultimate Break provides for their travelers.

Readymade Tours

‍ At present, EF Ultimate Break offers over 70 readymade tours for countries across the world. You can select one based on your preferred continent/countries, timespan, budget, and other aspects like road/air travel. 

Group Tours

EF Ultimate Break only provides group tours. You can sign up alone or with friends, but you will be paired with a group of other travelers signed up for the same trip. 

Arrangement of All Necessary Logistics

‍ The company will handle all aspects related to traveling, such as flight booking, transportation, accommodation, metro passes, entrance tickets to major attractions, etc. 

Payment in Instalments

‍ You can book a tour in advance and pay for it in interest-free instalments. This means you have to book early, depending on how soon you can complete the entire payment before the trip. You can also make one full-payment if you prefer.

Tour Directors

‍ There’s a tour director assigned for each trip to help travelers every step of the way. So, whether it’s resolving any issue you face during the trip or receiving recommendations on places to visit, they will guide you throughout the stay. 

24/7 Support

‍ EF Ultimate Break also offers 24/7 support to help you clarify any issue before, during, and after the trip.

How Does EF Ultimate Break Work?

• Log in by creating an account.
• Choose a tour that you like using filters provided like preferred continent and countries, trip length, and travel style.
• Select your payment terms and arrange it to be paid in full or installments before the tour. The cost depends on the type and length of the tour.
• The team will contact you and assist you thereafter.

Best Parts of EF

Pre-planned trips.

‍ If you have signed up for a trip with EF Ultimate Break, rest assured that you won’t have to fret about a disorganized or messy trip. They plan almost everything on behalf of you, arrange logistics, and even educate you on things required for the trip which is why it’s a convenient option for beginners.

An Opportunity to Make New Friends

‍ Unless you are going with your friends, you will be traveling with a group of total strangers who are passionate about travel just like you. You can get to know them better, share experiences, and maybe even make lifelong friends! 

Reliable Services

‍ The company provides a good customer experience, whether it’s via their tour directors assigned for each trip or the 24/7 customer support team. The tour directors are well-versed (most of the time) about the destinations and off-the-beaten-path attractions, so you can always count on them for help during the tour.

Reasonable Pricing

‍ Considering everything they provide, from flight bookings to farewell dinner, there’s no doubt that EF tours Ultimate Break is one of the most cost-effective choices at present, and their installment payment facility makes it even better.

As most of their tour packages also cover multiple countries/cities, you can expect great value for the money paid.

What Can the Company Do Better?

Lack of customization.

‍ You don’t have the freedom to create your own plan or include your preferred choices if they are not available in the set of options they provide. Some users have complained of poorly chosen hotels/hostels that didn’t cater to their expectations or provided value for the money they paid. 

Fast-Paced Itineraries (Only)

‍ When you travel with a group of people according to a predetermined schedule, you can’t explore places at your own pace. Longer trips by EF Ultimate Break include many countries and cities, and therefore, you might find the tours to be too fast in some cases. 

In fact, the reason why many travelers stop booking EF Ultimate Break tours is the fact that the tours are way too fast-paced for their liking. Many travelers opt to plan trips themselves, or join other slower-paced tours.

Expected Age Group

While I stated that one of the pros of joining EF Ultimate Break is to make new friends, I wouldn't expect to make new friends on ever EF Ultimate Break trip, especially if you're not in their target age group of 18–⁠20. While EF Ultimate Break's target age limit is 18–⁠35, the majority of tour-goers consist of those leaning towards the younger age limit.

Expectations vs. Reality

‍ While there’s a good chance you will get along with your fellow travelers in the group, there is also a probability that you won’t. Not everyone is a partygoer, adventure seeker, or an extroverted chatter. So, some of the activities might not fit your preferences.

Limited Choices for Tours

‍ The number of trips offered by EF Ultimate Break is very limited. So, you might not find the trip you are looking for in the list. 

Lack of Seamless Organization

‍ We also came across some negative EF Ultimate Break reviews complaining of poor organization, illegible tour guides who lacked the required knowledge, and inefficient use of time. There were times when travelers had to wait for hours for the bus to arrive.

Is EF Ultimate Break Legit?

EF Ultimate Break is great, but as I mentioned in the beginning, it’s not for everyone.

You're right to do research before you book because EF Ultimate Break reviews averages around 3.13 out of 5 from 250+ reviews (as per updated date above), from online collected reviews.

The EF Ultimate Break reviews online range from complaints of being unable to re-schedule tours, communication and poor customer support, as well as varied tour experiences.

If you're still unsure about EF Ultimate Break, let me help you break their costs down so you can make more informed decisions.

How Much is EF Ultimate Break?

Prices depend on dates and the type of trip booked, but the minimum prices seem to hover around $2500 for the shorter trips to the cheapest places and up to $15,000 (not including taxes and other fees) for their longest trips (57 days as of writing). These come with considerable markup given to cost of those areas.

For example a trip to Vienna, Budapest, and Prague, all of which are on the cheaper end of many European cities, will set you back at least $3100, but can be done yourself for about half that (speaking from experience from members on our team who've done it) and less if you bus instead of fly.

How Do I Cancel My Trip?

If you have booked an EF Ultimate Break trip and are regretting it or something came up, you may be able to get a partial refund. You can call EF Ultimate Break at 1-800-766-2645. Note that this is a salesperson who will try to sway you into "changing your destination, adjusting dates or setting up a new payment plan to make paying for your trip easier" according to their help center.

You'll also be expected to pay cancellation fees ranging from $150 (for trips booked +365 days or more in advance) up to everything you've paid so far for trips under 30 days, most of which require you pay the full fee if that's when you booked, meaning there'd be effectively no refund.

You'll also be expected to pay any non-refundable fees, of which there may be several. Be sure to read to the booking conditions prior to your trip, since they are subject to change and may be different based on the trip you book.

Is EF Ultimate Break Worth It?

EF Ultimate Break is tailored for a specific type of traveler. If you're a high-school or college student around 18-29 years old and love to travel and party your nights away, EF Ultimate Break's the tour company for you!

A main focus of its tours is to not only travel, but to make new friends and experiences along the way.

The main downside of EF Ultimate Break is that the tours aren't inclusive. If you're 18-29 and want to focus on traveling, its tours aren't catered towards you.

If you're not in the company's age range, you should try their EF Go Ahead Tours instead.

Another thing to note is that EF Ultimate Break's tours are extremely fast-paced and at times, aren't very organized and flexible.

So, after all of this, I'm trying to say that EF Ultimate Break is only worth it for a small group of travelers. If you're not part of that specified group, I would definitely go with another company.

And even if you are part of their target traveler, consider also comparing its tours to competitors. There's nothing here that makes the company shoot ahead of other tour companies offering similar experiences!

My Rating: 2.9/5

• No planning needed
• Tailored for young adults
• Reliable customer service
• Decent pricing with deals
• Additional payments
• Disorganized tours
• Limited tour customizations & flexibility
• Fast-paced itineraries
• Most of the focus is partying
• Limited choices of itineraries offered

Other General EF Ultimate Break Frequently Asked Questions

What's included in the cost.

EF Ultimate Break tours typically include airfare, accommodations, a tour director, some meals, transportation between cities, and guided sightseeing.

How Big Are EF Ultimate Break Groups?

Many people who go on these tours say it's normal to have groups as large as 30 people.

Are the Trips Flexible? Can I Deviate From the Itinerary?

EF Ultimate Break trips follow a set itinerary, but there is usually some free time built in for travelers to explore on their own. However, deviating from the group to travel independently before or after the tour may not be possible.

What's the Cut Off Age for EF Ultimate Break?

Recently, the cut off age for these tours were changed to 35. Previously, you needed to be 29 years or younger.

Are There Different Payment Plans?

Yes! Depending on your situation, EF Ultimate Break allows you to pay monthly or bi-weekly, at your own pace, in full, or with affirm. Check out its payment explanation page for details on each option.

Take Control of Your Trip Instead!

But what if you'd like to take control of your own trip, see the things you want to see, do the things you want to do? If that sounds like you, make sure to give Pilot a try!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Short breaks

Whether it's the ultimate holiday add-on or a mini adventure you seek, Intrepid's Short Break Adventures are sure to tick all the boxes. They're loaded with value, take the hassle out of planning and help you squeeze every last drop out of your next trip away.

Short Breaks are the ideal add-on to a longer holiday – or a mini adventure of their own. With a duration of 2-8 days, they range from beach breaks to guided excursions, or are centered around an experience like hiking or cooking. Departures are frequent and usually guaranteed.

Short Breaks are slightly different to our group tours, with the idea being that you maintain a level of independence during down time e.g. at night. You'll most likely travel on a join-in basis, which means you may or may not be joined by others for activities and transportation, depending on demand. However, we do offer some independent options where you'll travel on your own or with your own party.

Remember that dream? The one that began on a pearly white beach fringed by waters of sapphire blue. Where waves of incense flooded tiny laneways, and in a small village, a rooster crowed until the rice fields were bathed in warm sunlight. But this is no dream. This is Asia - and it will take your breath away.

From the stampeding wildebeest of the Serengeti to the forces of nature at Zimbabwe’s Vic Falls, Africa is where Mother Nature parades her finest wares at every opportunity. Trek through rainforests and steamy jungles, meet majestic Maasai warriors and trace the inscriptions of ancient civilizations - the impressiveness of this continent simply knows no bounds!

Bite-size, hearty and packed with flavor and while that may sound like a taco - it’s actually a Central American Short Break. With a quick few days to spare, jump into a jam-packed itinerary featuring the oldest ruins, freshest foods and biggest monuments. Along the way you’ll have full insider know-how from a local guide so you can get the most of your time in Central America.

With a few spare days, venture to the world’s most remote destinations or its busiest cities. From glacier hunting at Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park or animal spotting in the Amazon Jungle to marveling before Iguazu Falls or debating the wonders of Easter Island – find a way to spend a couple of extra days in the ever-enchanting South America.

Travel a road that links antiquity with modernity, hear the melodic call to prayer drift over the hum of modern traffic, and marvel at 5000-year-old pyramids reflected in shining high-rise buildings only a decade old. Step into the exotic Middle East.

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These are the 15 best places to visit for spring break this year

Ah, spring — the season of rejuvenation and adventure. It's that time of year when the winter chill thaws and possibilities bloom like spring flowers.

Are you ready to ditch the textbooks, escape the office, or take a break from the daily grind? Spring break is not just a time off; it's a state of mind! It's your chance to explore new horizons, make unforgettable memories and maybe even find a new favorite cocktail.

We've scoured the globe to bring you the top 15 spring break destinations that cater to every traveler's taste, whether you're a college student ready to party, a couple in search of romance or a family eager for fun.

Here are the best places for spring break travel.

Grenada: A hidden gem beach

Have you heard about Grenada? As it marks its 50th year of independence, this island isn't just another dot in the Caribbean; it's a world of its own.

Picture this: secluded beaches like the famous Grand Anse, where the sand is soft, and the crowds are few. But there's more to the island than just beaches.

If you're into exploring different cultures, you'll love it here. The island has its own music, tasty food and markets full of spices. And if you're adventurous, the rainforests and hidden waterfalls are ideal for some nature immersion.

So, if you're looking for a special place that's under the radar and not too busy, you've come to the right place.

Where to stay : Mount Cinnamon is a boutique hotel with 36 hillside suites and villas above Grand Anse Beach. Plus, it has a complimentary kids club for 3- to 12-year-olds. Rates start at $720 per room, per night, including breakfast, in March and April.

Related: The 22 best Caribbean resorts, from boutique literary haunts to exclusive private-island escapes

Cancun, Mexico: A classic spring break destination

Cancun, Mexico , resonates with many as the classic beach getaway, and for good reason.

With its spectacular stretches of Caribbean beaches , vibrant street life and rich cultural heritage, Cancun offers a complete package.

Here, you can soak up the sun on powdery white sands, dive into the crystal-clear waters, or explore the bustling markets and lively nightlife. The city is a hub of activity where every turn promises a new adventure, whether it's a boat trip across stunning Nichupté Bay, known for its fascinating wildlife, or a day exploring ancient Mayan ruins nearby.

Where to stay : The Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla offers a luxurious stay with stunning sea views. Plus, the hotel's Wander Rooftop pool provides an unbeatable spot to watch the sunrise. Rates start at $183 or 52,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun

Colorado: For those who still want winter

If you're not quite ready to say goodbye to winter, Colorado is the perfect spring break destination, especially this year, with many people having spring break in March due to Easter.

Did you know March is often the best time for skiing in Colorado? This is when winter sports destinations like Colorado see some of their prime ski conditions.

Related: Best ski resorts in Colorado for everyone from beginners to experts

As the darker days of winter fade, the snow in Colorado is typically at its best. Ski resorts often boast their deepest snow bases in March, thanks to continuous snowfall and spring storms that bring heavy, moisture-rich snow. This makes for excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions, combining the thrill of winter sports with the more comfortable early spring temperatures.

Moreover, most Colorado ski resorts stay open until April, giving you plenty of time to hit the slopes during spring break. Whether you're a seasoned skier or looking to try something new, Colorado's snowy peaks offer an exhilarating escape for those who aren't quite ready to let go of winter.

Where to stay : The Limelight Hotels , located in adventure-driven locations, make the experience even more special. Imagine your kids scaling a five-story climbing wall or learning ski tricks from a pro. For the days you prefer relaxation, the hotel's luxe amenities provide the perfect backdrop. Rates start at $259 per person, per night for a Limelight Denver or $1,089 per night at Limelight Aspen.

Orlando, Florida: The classic spring break option for families

Disney and Orlando are classic picks for a family-friendly spring break.

The magic of Disney World , with its iconic attractions and beloved characters, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for kids and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for adults.

The excitement doesn't stop at Disney; Universal Studios brings your favorite movies to life with thrilling rides and shows. Orlando 's warm spring weather is perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors, and the city's variety of dining and shopping options cater to families of all tastes and budgets. With a range of accommodations, from posh resorts to cozy hotels, every family can find their ideal stay.

Where to stay : The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes' new multi-million-dollar renovation includes inspired family suites, a poolside restaurant and yes, even a water park. Just a short drive to Disney World makes this luxurious, sparkling new property a win for the entire family. Rates start at $470 per night or 56,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in March and April.

Hawaii: For those who want adventure and relaxation

Hawaii is not just another beach destination; it's a whole vibe. You get the best of both worlds here — thrilling adventures and chill-out spots. Snorkeling in Hawaii is like jumping into a postcard, with water so clear and full of life. And if hiking is your thing, the trails here take you through lush forests and up to some pretty epic volcanoes.

But hey, it's not all go-go-go. Hawaiian beaches are perfect for just kicking back and soaking in the sun. Each island has its own personality. Oahu's got the buzz with places like Waikiki Beach, while Kauai is more about taking it easy and enjoying the quiet.

You won't struggle to find a cool place to stay. Whether you're looking for luxury or something more low-key, like a cozy cottage, Hawaii's got it. And the food? Get ready for some amazing seafood and local treats.

So, whether you're flying solo, hanging with your partner, bringing the family, or on a trip with friends, Hawaii hits the spot. It's a mix of adventure, relaxation, and just plain beauty. For a spring break that's a bit of everything, Hawaii is where it's at.

Where to stay : Waikiki Malia is the perfect mix of opulence that's easy on the wallet. The 18-story hotel is just one block from the famed Waikiki Beach in the center of some of the best shopping and dining in Honolulu (sales tax in Honolulu is just 4.5%). Spring break months of March and April are seeing prices from $164 per night for a Waikiki view, two-double room.

Related: The best hotels and resorts in Hawaii

Los Angeles: For a city and nature escape

Los Angeles , affectionately known as La-La Land, is a fantastic choice for spring break. It's a city where there's always something happening. If you're into the glitz and glamor, Hollywood's iconic sights are a must-see.

But that's just the start. LA's beaches are perfect for those sunny spring days, whether you're up for surfing or just lounging on the sand. For the adventurers, hiking the Santa Monica Mountains offers some breathtaking views and a bit of a workout. And let's not forget about the food — LA's culinary scene is incredible, with everything from trendy food trucks to high-end restaurants.

Where to stay : Hotel Amarano Burbank, a secret gem, offers a luxury boutique close to Hollywood and Universal Studios. Rates start at $224 per night during March and April.

Related: The 27 best hotels in Los Angeles for your next visit

Charleston, South Carolina: For foodies

For a spring break centered around amazing food, Charleston is the place to be. This South Carolina city is renowned for its culinary scene, with streets lined with top-notch eateries. From the upscale delights at FIG to the comfort of Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, your taste buds are in for a treat. While the charming cobblestone streets and pastel beach houses add to the city's allure, the flavors of Charleston truly shine. After indulging in the local cuisine, you can walk it off in the historic district or along the sparkling beaches. Don't forget to explore the downtown area, which is rich in both history and culinary gems.

Where to stay : In the heart of historic Charleston stands the Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton . The property is within walking distance of some of the best dining options in the city. However, the Mills House holds its own with elevated Southern Coastal fare at the Iron Rose Restaurant, and its all-day cafe, The Black Door Cafe. Rates start at $339 per night or 80,000 Hilton Honors points in March and April.

Related: The 17 best hotels in Charleston, from historic inns to modern stays

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia: For history buffs

Are you a history buff looking for a spring break that's a bit out of the ordinary? Try Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia . It's a living history museum where you can wander through blooming gardens, explore art museums and dive into interactive historical adventures.

Learn about the Revolutionary War at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, then see the past come alive at the Jamestown Settlement. Dining is a throwback to places like Chowning's Tavern, serving up dishes from yesteryear. Don't miss Merchants Square, where shopping meets 18th-century charm.

Where to stay : The Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection offers visitors true 18th-century styling with Chippendale fretwork and unique furnishings within modern amenities. It's in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, so history buffs will feel as if they're living in the past. Rates start at $169 per night or 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in March and April.

National Parks, USA: Perfect for roadtrippers

Thinking about a road trip for spring break? You've got to check out the U.S. National Parks .

Start with Zion National Park — those arches are like driving through a giant, natural art gallery. Yosemite ? Wow, it's like rolling right into your computer's wallpaper with its lush meadows and huge mountains. And the Grand Canyon is a must-see. It's massive, and the views will blow your mind.

Each park is a whole new world, filled with cool sights and fun things to do. And for those who love a good road trip, try the Golden Circle route. It ties all these amazing spots together, making the journey as awesome as the destinations.

Where to stay : With five camps located along the Grand Circle (near Grand Canyon, Moab, Zion and Lake Powell) and open for the season by spring break, Under Canvas and ULUM Moab deliver upscale, outdoor accommodations that allow guests to retreat in nature's best without the hassle of camping. Rates for a late March or April stay start at $649 per night.

Related: These are the best new hotels that opened in 2023

Paris, France: For a city escape

Paris during spring break is an experience like no other.

Known as the City of Light, it's perfect for all kinds of travelers. For history buffs, Paris is a treasure trove with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Art lovers will be in heaven, wandering through galleries like the Musée d'Orsay.

Foodies, get ready for some of the best pastries and cafe experiences in the world. Strolling along the Seine or exploring the charming streets of Montmartre, you'll feel like you're in a movie.

And for those seeking romance, Paris in spring, with its blooming gardens and picturesque cafes, is as romantic as it gets. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple or a family, Paris offers a blend of culture, history and beauty, making it an unforgettable spring break destination.

Where to Stay : Hotel des Grand Voyageurs is an elegant and intimate treasure. Escape into the nobility of old-world Europe without sacrificing the welcoming warmth of today. Grandeur and class ooze from every room, while the hotel's own restaurant and bar offers fantastic dining. Rates start at $270 for a March or April one-night stay.

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Costa Rica: For the adventure seeker

Costa Rica , a gem for adventure seekers, is a spring break paradise with rainforests, volcanoes and beaches — all in one place.

You can zip line in Monteverde, feeling the rush as you soar above the cloud forest. Then, hit the waves at Jaco or Tamarindo; they're a surfer's dream. And let's not forget the thrill of white water rafting on the Pacuare River. It's not just about the adrenaline, though.

Wildlife is everywhere. Sloths, monkeys, a burst of tropical birds — all living freely in national parks like Manuel Antonio. And the commitment to eco-friendliness is real here. It makes your adventure not just exciting but also responsible. Oh, and the warm, welcoming vibe of the locals? It's the cherry on top.

Where to stay : The Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton is a great jumping-off point for adventures in Costa Rica. Rates start at $220 or 66,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for beach visits or hiking trips

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: A fun-filled alternative to Disney

Consider swapping the Disney crowds for the charm of Dolly Parton's world in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee .

It's an ideal spot for families looking for a fun-filled vacation without the Disney hustle. Pigeon Forge boasts an impressive array of amusement parks and attractions. Take Dollywood , for example: With more than 40 rides, including thrilling roller coasters and water adventures, it's a hit for all ages.

Related: My '9 to 5' sent me to sleep in Dolly Parton's $10,000 tour bus suite — here's what it was like

But there's more to this Smoky Mountain town . The Island at Pigeon Forge is an entertainment hub with a giant Ferris wheel offering breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, a challenging ropes course for adventurous families, plus a variety of unique shops and local eateries.

And for a mix of fun and learning, WonderWorks is an interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits that kids absolutely love. For a family getaway that's both entertaining and relaxed, Pigeon Forge is a fantastic choice.

Where to stay : Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a family-friendly hotel with mountain views and real rustic Southern charm. Families will adore sitting by the fire pit on their patio, while kids will appreciate the pool's epic waterslide. Best of all, Dollywood is just a 3-mile drive. Rates start at $145 per night or 37,000 Hilton Honors points in March and April.

Seychelles: An exotic (and luxurious) escape

The Seychelles? It's like a little piece of heaven on Earth, perfect for anyone who loves a bit of extravagance with their adventure.

With 41 ancient granite islands and 74 dreamy reef islands, it's seriously like stepping into a postcard of paradise. This place is all about upscale, unique experiences. If you love stunning views, exclusive beaches and feeling like you're in a world of your own, you'll fit right in.

The Seychelles is tailor-made for those who enjoy the finer things in life but still want that touch of wild, natural beauty. So, if sipping a fancy drink on a private beach or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters sounds like your idea of a good time, this is your spot.

Where to stay : The Mango House , an LXR property by Hilton , is a magnificent gem of a property tucked along the oceanfront of the Anse Aux Poules Bleues. You'll rest in one of their 41 sea-facing villas listening to the hushed tones of the waves after eating at one of their five marvelous fine dining options. Rates start at $551 or 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Scotland: A unique family adventure

Scotland is an exceptional choice for a unique family spring break, especially if you're not set on a beach-centric holiday.

Spring in Scotland is a time of rejuvenation, where the landscapes burst into vibrant colors and the days grow longer, offering more time to explore. It's a playground for families who love adventure and history.

Imagine wandering through ancient castles, uncovering stories of knights and legends, or hiking through the lush, green Highlands, with scenery straight out of a fairy tale. The cities, like Edinburgh and Glasgow, are brimming with culture, from interactive museums to street performances, all kid-friendly and educational.

Related: How to spend 1 day in Edinburgh

Plus, the chance to spot some of Scotland's iconic wildlife, like red deer or golden eagles, adds an exciting twist to the trip. Scotland offers a blend of outdoor activities, historical exploration and cultural experiences that create unforgettable memories for the whole family, away from the usual beach crowd.

Where to stay : Gleneagles is an adventure playground for the entire family. With its new "Children's Welcome Experience," kids can become explorers, while adults indulge in elegance. It's an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation in a stunning natural setting. Rates at Gleneagles start from $730 based on two adults and two children under 14 sharing a room, including breakfast. Interconnecting rooms are available at an additional fee.

Related: Edinburgh's Gleneagles Townhouse: A city hotel that's costly but close to perfection

Roatan, Honduras Bay Islands: For nature and water sports lovers

Roatan, nestled in the Bay Islands of Honduras, is a spring break destination you've probably never considered. Yet, it's an absolute gem for those seeking adventure and close encounters with nature.

This island is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering diverse activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, parasailing and Jet Skiing in its warm, crystal-clear waters.

For a unique perspective of marine life, try the glass-bottom boating. Families will find Roatán especially enchanting, with attractions like the Gumbalimba Animal Sanctuary and Manawakie Eco Nature Park, where you can interact with sloths and monkeys.

Where to stay : Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa is nestled on the picturesque West Bay Beach and has premiere access to the dropoff point of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world's second-largest barrier reef. Rates start at $554 per night or 100,000 IHG One Rewards points in March and April.

Related: The top Kimpton Hotels across the world, according to IHG Diamond members

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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Best spring break destinations.

For many students, a spring break getaway is the perfect opportunity to let off some steam before the stress of finals and graduation. But for a destination to be spring break-worthy, it needs to be affordable, accessible and popular among the college cohort. Considering these factors, plus editor insight and traveler sentiment, U.S. News ranked the best spring break destinations. Vote for your top picks below to have a say in next year's ranking.

Miami Beach

Cabo san lucas, south padre island, playa del carmen, puerto rico, puerto vallarta.

Cancun has all the makings of a quintessential spring break destination. Along with its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, this Mexico city boasts numerous all-inclusive resorts with budget-friendly packages that cover on-site drinks, meals and entertainment, plus a rollicking nightlife scene (check out Coco Bongo). Many travel companies run student-specific deals on vacation packages to Cancun as well. If you tire of the beach, you can absorb some history at the nearby El Rey Ruins or take a day trip to the must-visit Chichén Itzá archaeological site.

When you're not lounging on Miami Beach's wide shorelines, make the most of the city's event calendar, which includes Miami Beach Pride and Ultra Music Festival (both are typically held in March or April). This action-packed Florida city is full of accommodation options at a variety of price points, too, meaning you can find everything from affordable hotels to large vacation rentals to chic resorts. Dodge exorbitant cover charges when you're out partying by getting to the clubs early in the evening or buying tickets ahead of time. And if you need a little downtime, consider a hike or airboat tour through Everglades National Park about 40 miles west.

Head to Siesta Key for crystal clear water, white sand beaches and plenty of fruity drinks. A barrier island off the coast of Sarasota, Florida, this Gulf of Mexico hot spot is a fan favorite among spring breakers looking to spend carefree days out on the water aboard a boat, Jet Ski or paddleboard. At night, refuel with some bar food and frozen beverages at the Daiquiri Deck, then hop around Siesta Village until the wee hours of the morning. Lodging options range from condos and vacation rentals to hotels at various price points on the mainland.   

Located on the southern tip of Baja California, this Mexican beach destination boasts stunning golden sands, pleasant spring weather, turquoise waters and a reputation for uninhibited nightlife. Coeds can spend their spring break soaking up some sun and splashing around at Playa del Amor or Playa El Médano before dancing the night away at popular haunts like Cabo Wabo Cantina. The area's all-inclusive options and traditional hotels are also packed with amenities, ranging from incredible pools to fun bars to restaurants serving tasty cuisine.

If you're looking for nonstop beach and pool parties, concerts, budget-friendly lodging and celebrity-hosted events, South Padre Island is the getaway for you. While this Texas resort town is a popular spot for the whole family during the rest of the year, South Padre Island welcomes college students in droves starting in early to mid-March. Keep in mind, the beach becomes quite crowded during spring break, so this Texas retreat is best for people looking to party rather than relax.

What's not to love about reggae music, beautiful beaches , natural attractions and all-inclusive resorts? That's what you'll get when you spend spring break in Jamaica. Those looking to relax and lounge on the beach will find upscale accommodations near laid-back Negril, while more adventurous types should choose a resort closer to Ocho Rios to hike the popular Dunn's River Falls. No matter where you stay, expect plenty of food with jerk seasoning, warm weather, welcoming islanders and no shortage of rum punch.

With an enviable location along the coastline of Mexico's Riviera Maya, dozens of affordable all-inclusive resorts and a fun nightlife scene, Playa del Carmen is a beloved locale for spring break trips. Revelers can relax on the beautiful beaches, go snorkeling in the turquoise waters and enjoy tropical drinks by their resort pools by day. Once the sun sets, partygoers can head to the clubs to dance to DJ beats and Latin music.

Longing for a taste of the Caribbean without the hassle of international travel? Puerto Rico is your answer. You won't need a passport to soak in the sunny, breezy spring weather on the island's roughly 300 paradisiacal beaches . Active types can also get their heartrate up with a rainforest hike in El Yunque National Forest. San Juan offers plenty of sprawling resorts with massive pools, and even coeds younger than 21 will be able to tour a rum distillery or enjoy a refreshing piña colada – invented in Puerto Rico – thanks to a legal drinking age of 18.

The Bahamas might just be the spring break destination for you if you're searching for a bit of Las Vegas in the Caribbean. When you're not testing Lady Luck in Nassau's casinos, relax on the beach, then hit the bars and clubs at the various resorts for drinks and dancing. Those looking to clear their heads after a few nights out can island-hop to some of the country's less flashy locales to swim with pigs or lounge on pink sand beaches . Having trouble finding affordable lodging and airfare? Consider a fun-filled cruise or vacation package that bundles your resort stay and flight costs.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is a spring break vacation made for night owls, thanks to its scores of nightclubs and music venues. Students can sip cocktails at a bar along the Malecón boardwalk or let loose and rave at one of the many clubs. Meanwhile, those looking to sprinkle in some adventure can book an ATV or zip line tour . When it comes to lodging, plenty of all-inclusive resorts are situated right on the beach and offer packages to entice travelers.

Punta Cana is ideal for spring breakers who plan to spend most of their time within the grounds of their all-inclusive resorts (think: flowing drinks, endless food and scores of activities, ranging from water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding to beach volleyball and pool games). Nightlife options in this Dominican Republic beach spot are not as abundant as those in other destinations on this list, but if you're in the mood to dance, head to The Cave at Imagine Punta Cana.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Panama City Beach

Daytona Beach

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Why You Should Travel with EF Ultimate Break: Honest EF Ultimate Break Review

Disclaimer: This post might contain affiliate links, which means we get a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you).

Is EF Ultimate Break worth it? Find out as we share our EF Ultimate Break review and dive into the pros and cons of traveling with EF Ultimate Break!

So you want to travel abroad…

But you’ve never left your time zone. Or maybe that $1500 roundtrip flight you just searched for is forcing you to exit the page. Or you have no idea how to start planning a trip, and you don’t have the time to figure it out.

So you do some Googling, and you find these awesome blog posts about people who book one-way tickets, quit their jobs and travel for a living, or manage to travel to Europe for only $100 a day.

But this doesn’t seem at all realistic for your lifestyle right now. For those who are new to traveling abroad or afraid of all the planning themselves, traveling with a tour agency is an often overlooked option by bloggers. There are so many people on the internet who plan these amazing trips and do them at low costs, which is awesome. Props to you! But such trips require a lot of planning, travel hacking, and experience.

Thanks to tour agencies like EF, or Education First , traveling hassle-free as a young adult IS POSSIBLE!!

In this post, we will share all the details about traveling with EF Ultimate Break, a tour company designed specifically for young adults aged 18-35. EF Ultimate Break offers young adults an affordable and easy way to travel. So, let’s get into our honest EF Ultimate Break review!

EF Ultimate Break Review

Tldr: are ef ultimate break trips worth it.

Yes! If you’re a young traveler who doesn’t have the time to plan an international trip, an EF Ultimate Break tour is a great option. The trips include major bucket list destinations, sites, and attractions, and most of the difficult planning is already done for you. It’s a great way to travel with the comfort of other people and a full-time tour director. Tours are fairly priced, and EF Ultimate Break offers a range of tours! 

Book with our referral link and get $100 off your next EF Ultimate Break trip!

What is EF Ultimate Break?

EF, Education First, is a large tour agency with headquarters and subdivisions worldwide. We have traveled with two of their brands: EF Ultimate Break and EF College Study Tours.  Each subbrand of EF offers travel experiences to different age groups and for different purposes.

EF Ultimate Break is the Perfect Way to Travel for Young Adults

When traveling with EF Ultimate Break , anyone from 18 to 35 can book a trip online with a down payment of only $150. EF Ultimate Break offers precisely what you think it does: ultimate trips! These tours are hosted throughout the year, worldwide, and on a young adult’s budget! When browsing the website, you can search by length of trip, country, and cost. Each tour page includes the activities and general itineraries for each day. You can price out your trip based on wherever you’ll be flying out of, the time of year, and the type of trip.

A reputable tour agency like EF provides a sense of comfort for travelers while being affordable, especially for young people. We know it can be hard to find time and funds for travel, and EF makes it easy and affordable!

Read more about how we selected our EF Ultimate Break trips here!

EF College Study Tours

EF College Study Tours is another branch of EF that allows colleges to arrange short-term study abroad trips with their students. For these trips, a professor or academic representative must coordinate student sign-ups. Then, they can recruit students to attend! If you’re a college student, see if your school offers College Study Tours with EF. This is how we traveled with EF while we were in college! These trips were just as fun as our trip with EF Ultimate Break, and they offer all the same perks, including cost and location!

EF Gap Year

EF Gap Year  is designed for those who want to travel during a “gap year,”  either through language exchange, volunteering, or internships. These experiences allow you to build skills and explore the world at the same time! For these programs, there is an application process. Gap year trips are offered in locations around the globe as well!

EF Educational Tours

EF Educational Tours allows teachers and a variety of educators to travel the world with their students. Tours can be focused on educational topics, language immersion, service learning, and leadership studies.

Explore America

While most EF trips offer international travel, Explore America is completely based in the United States, territories, and Canada. Visit national parks and cities from New York to San Fransisco, attend themed tours based on STEM, art, and service-learning, and even visit colleges.

Most EF programs are focused on college-aged adults, but Go Ahead welcomes young-at-heart attendees with the opportunity to travel the world. These trips pride themselves on hosting smaller groups for immersive travel experiences across seven continents.

Is EF Ultimate Break Only for College Students?

No! EF Ulitmate Break trips are for anyone aged 18 to 35, so you do not need to be exclusively a college student. When we traveled with EF Ultimate Break for the Grand Tour of Europe, the average age was a little younger, like below 25. But when we traveled on the Grand Tour of Ireland Tour, most of our group were over 25. So the age will vary on your trips!

Is EF Ulitmate break Legit?

When we first learned about EF Ultimate Break, one of the top questions we saw on Google was: Is EF Ultimate Break legit? To answer the question, yes. Yes, EF Ultimate Break is a legitimate company that offers legitimate trips for young adults. It is not a scam!

Common Criticisms of EF Ultimate Break

If you Google EF Ulitmate Break reviews, you’ll see both good and bad reviews. We think it’s important to remember that with travel, expectations can vary greatly, and oftentimes, some mishaps are out of anyone’s control (Like canceled flights). We will briefly talk about some of the common things people don’t like about EF Ultimate Break and our response to them.

We have seen some reviews of people who felt they were overpaying or had issues canceling or rescheduling a trip with customer service. We had no issues with customer service when booking or rescheduling our trips. When the pandemic happened in 2020, we originally had the Grand Tour of Ireland tour planned for that summer, but unfortunately, we had to postpone the trip. EF Ultimate Break made postponing and rescheduling the trip very easy by issuing us a voucher that we could use within two years of it being issued.

We have also seen some criticisms where people feel that these trips tend to attract young people who just want to party in a country where it’s legal to drink. Personally, we did not have major issues with people like this on our trips. Ultimately, when you’re going on a tour group, you will encounter a diverse group of people who want to have different experiences on the trip. So, you’re bound to have some people that might want to take the opportunity to party, or not fully immerse themselves in the cultural experience. We just chose to ignore these people on our trip, and we didn’t let them ruin our experience.

Another common criticism is that EF Ultimate Break tours tend to take you to the “Instagrammable” places of these countries and do not offer a fully cultural experience. While most of our trips did take us to the most popular destinations and attractions, we personally wanted to see these things and didn’t have a problem with it. However, EF Ultimate Breaks trips include a lot of free time in the itineraries, so the free time is a great opportunity to explore things off the beaten path. And again, the primary goal of tours is to make travel easy and accessible (especially for first time travelers!), so they tend to include the most popular attractions and places. We personally don’t view this as a bad thing, especially when the itineraries are very transparent about it. If you haven’t traveled to those destinations before, it’s a great opportunity to see the top attractions and maybe get a taste of what these places are like so you can decide if you want to go back later at another time. The tour directors also encourage exploring and trying new things like food, riding public transit, and speaking the language. The tour directors are either locals or have been on the trip many times before so they can offer insider tips!

What Kinds of Trips Does EF Ultimate Break Offer?

Ef ultimate plus vs. essential trips.

EF Ultimate Break recently added two different styles of trips to their catalog. When you’re browsing trips on their website, you’ll see a designation of either plus or essential next to the trip. The essential trips are their standard trips, including everything you would typically get on an EF Ultimate Break tour. The plus trips, on the other hand, offered a premium and luxury experience. The EF Ultimate Break plus trips include a double room with a roommate of your choice, additional meals, and higher star-rated accommodations. Plus trips are great if you’re traveling with a close friend or a partner or if you want more privacy. Because you are paying for a single room and more meals, typically, these trips have a higher cost compared to the essential trips

Solo Travel with EF Ultimate Break

In addition to adding the plus trips to their catalog, EF Ultimate Break added solo travel trips. These trips are only for solo travelers, so this is a great way to meet other people and travel with the safety of a tour group.

Why We Chose to Travel with EF Ultimate Break

We have traveled with the tour agency EF, or Education First, for almost all our international travels. We traveled with EF College Study for our first trip abroad, which made trip planning and the trip itself easier to manage compared to doing everything on our own. Aside from a high school-sponsored trip to Mexico, we had never traveled out of the country before, so planning a trip to Europe on our own seemed out of reach and scary for us. We wanted planning to be effortless! When the opportunity arose with our college to travel to Italy with EF College Study, we decided to take the plunge and book with EF! We then booked several other trips during college with EF college study. Then, several years later, after we graduated college, we then decided that we wanted to continue traveling with EF through EF ultimate break. Our first trip with EF ultimate break was the grand tour of Europe. Because we were so happy with her experience with EF ultimate break we then decided to book another trip, the grand tour of Ireland.

Personally, we found that traveling with EF Ultimate Break made the planning process much easier than if we were planning these trips on our own. We wanted the convenience of having most of the itinerary already planned for us, and all we had to do was fill in the free time and other activities we wanted to do. One of the most convenient aspects of traveling with a group like EF ultimate break was having the transportation and hotels booked and coordinated. And lastly, we enjoyed the sense of comfort that traveling with a group and a full-time tour director provided us. It was nice to have the option of doing activities with other people, and it was great to have a tour director who could offer us tips and recommendations throughout the tour.

Our Experience Traveling with EF Ultimate Break.

We have traveled with EF Ultimate Break twice. Our first trip was the grand tour of Europe trip, which was a 30-day-long excursion across 10+ countries. Most recently, in August 2023, we traveled on the Grand Tour of Ireland trip. Because the grand tour of Ireland was much shorter and only featured one country, we felt like the pace of the trip was a little slower compared to the Grand Tour of Europe. In the Grand Tour of Europe, we spent more time traveling between cities and countries in comparison to Ireland, where our longest drive is only about 3 hours. The Grand Tour of Europe was an ultimate Euro trip where we packed in so many places and activities in just 30 days. This is something to consider when picking a trip. Longer trips where you visit more countries are fast paced since you have to spend more time traveling to get from one place to another.

For both of our trips, we felt that we did a lot in a short amount of time. We could see most of the “bucket list” attractions, museums, and activities in each destination, and we had free time to plan our own. IT wasn’t like we were constantly on the go. There were days when we had time to relax at the hotel for a bit before moving onto the next activity. We felt it was generally a good balance of structured itineraries versus free time.

Our only criticism of traveling with EF Ultimate Break is that we wish we had booked the Plus trips. For the Grand Tour of Europe when we traveled in 2017, the Plus itinerary was not an option. So we can’t fault EF for that. But when we traveled with a Grand Tour of Ireland, we wished we had booked the Plus trip. Our reasoning for this came down to personal preference. At this point in our lives, we weren’t particularly fond of staying in hostels or rooming with other people that we didn’t know. It wasn’t because we didn’t like the people on our tour. It was just that we wanted our privacy. This was our fault for not booking the Plus trip, so next time we plan to go Plus! In addition to the privacy situation, we would have preferred the plus trip because the bus trips include more meals. Sometimes, the day can be fast-paced, so you have to make quick decisions about where to eat lunch. This was often a source of stress because Pam is a vegetarian, so our options are limited in some places. For meals, we would’ve preferred some more structure in the itinerary, which is something the Plus trips offer.

For both of our EF ultimate Break trips, we opted to extend our trip. After the official tour was over, we decided to stay behind in Europe and plan an extension to the trip. After we departed our official group, our accommodations and transportation were our responsibility. So we went on to explore other places on our own. However, our flight home was taken care of by EF. All we had to do was call customer service and tell them that we wanted to extend our trip, and they modified our departure day to the date and location of our choice. You can also do the same by starting your trip earlier. Or you can book two trips back-to-back.

We have loved our experiences will EF and plan to book our future trips with them. Traveling as college students with EF Ultimate and College Break helped us to see parts of the world that we never thought we would be able to visit.

What To Expect on an EF Ultimate Break Tour

Before you leave.

Before leaving for your trip, you can be added to your trip’s group chat in EF Ultimate Break’s app, where you can communicate with other travelers and your tour director. Here, you can think about what you want to do in your free time and get advice about packing and preparing from others going on the trip! This was a nice perk for us! Another perk about traveling with EF Ultimate Break is that if anything goes wrong on the trip, in terms of flights, accommodations, or tours, EF takes care of the problem for you.

Can I Travel Solo with EF Ultimate Break?

When traveling with EF, don’t worry about traveling alone. Many people who attend EF trips are traveling alone, making it a great environment for meeting new people in your tour group.

What Are the Accommodations Like? 

If you’re traveling with EF ultimate break on an essential trip, you will stay in a mix of hostels and hotels. Hostels typically room up to 6 people and are more “basic” than a hotel. Usually, the breakfasts aren’t as expansive, and the rooms are basic with bunk beds. Think dorm room! The hotels, on the other hand, are usually nicer and offer more, since they’re a hotel. We didn’t travel with EF ultimate break on a plus trip, but plus trips advertise that they stay at only hotels and higher-rated hotels. 

What Is It Like Traveling with Strangers?

We can be introverted, and traveling with strangers wasn’t weird for us! Generally, people are friendly and interested in meeting new people, which is part of the point and fun of traveling with a group! So EF usually attracts people who want to meet other people. We didn’t travel solo because we were traveling with each other, but it wasn’t weird to us traveling with strangers.

What Are Transportation and Travel Days Like?

Depending on which trip you’re going on, transportation includes all transit between cities and attractions and arrival and departure transit like cabs or buses. We have experience with coach buses, trains, and ferries with EF. The buses are nice coach buses, and the trains depend on the country because they are the local trains. Some transportation between destinations included longer transit times, like 4-5 hours. But it all depends on where you go. We personally disliked the ferry when we took it from Italy to Greece. We imagined it to be more like a cruise ship, but it wasn’t. It was a little rough. But we did that in 2015, so we can’t judge what they are like now. 

• Difficult planning is done for you
• Payment plans are available
• Frequent discounts and sales
• Group setting – meet new people – good for solo travelers
• Full-time tour director
• Includes tickets to big-ticket items, and sometimes you get to skip the lines
• Pre-planned guided tours with local guides 
• Includes most “bucket-list” items in destinations
• Can be fast-paced
• Detailed itineraries aren’t provided until tour directors contact you (usually 2-3 weeks before departure)
• Can’t select accommodations
• Some travel days are long
• Most meals aren’t included (except plus trips)
• Age limit (18-35)

**You might notice costs are both pros and cons. Personally, we think EF Ultimate Break is fairly priced, but others might disagree, depending on your financial situation or your skill level, with travel hacking and getting a good deal. So we think price can be subjective, BUT in our opinion, we think the price is fair. So we would have it on the pros list!

How Much Free Time Do You Really Have?

We would say that about 40% of the trip is free time. Some days, most of the day is scheduled, but other days are completely free days! When considering a trip, you usually can tell when the free time is included because the itinerary will recommend things to do that day.

What Happens If I Need To Change My Trip?

If you need to change your trip, you can contact customer service, and they can help you. As long as your trip is not within 99 days and you opted into Travel Protection, you can make changes to your itinerary. Changes include cancellation rescheduling, changing dates to the trip, and switching trips. If you need to cancel, you will be refunded the total amount – a fee depending on when you cancel.

• 30 days or less: Full balance paid (You get no money back!)
• 30–60 days: $2,000
• 61–99 days: $1,000
• 100-364 days: $450
• 365+ days: $150

How Big Are EF Ultimate Break Groups?

Usually, EF groups have up to about 30 people. 

What is Included in an EF Ulitmate Break Trip?

Tour director.

Having a full-time tour director made traveling much easier. The tour Director is the trip’s main coordinator, ensuring the group gets everywhere on time to the right place. Having a tour director removes the stress and anxiety of coordinating the transportation and travel logistics. They handle all the tickets for included activities and scheduling. It’s also very nice to have a tour Director who can speak a local language.

For both of our trips with EF Ultimate Break, our tour directors went above and beyond to make our trip special. In addition to the itineraries provided by EF, they could recommend and book additional group activities. A lot of these additional activities were some of our favorite moments of the trips. For example, when we were on the Grand Tour of Ireland, our tour director booked us an excursion to see an Irish step-dancing show, which was a highlight of the trip for us. We would not have thought to book a show like that, nor would we have known where shows were located or which shows were the best.

Accommodations

All accommodations are provided in EF Ultimate Break itineraries. If you select an essential trip, you’ll be staying in a mix of hostels and hotels with either 2 to 6 other same-sex individuals, but if you were booking a plus tour, you only have one roommate of your choice. Plus trips, you will only stay in hotels, so no hostels. Personally, when we book our next trip with EF, we plan to book a plus trip because we would like the privacy of only one roommate.

EF Ultimate Break tours either include a flight itinerary or allow you to book your own flights. We personally have not done a tour where we booked our own flights

Ground Transportation

One of the most convenient parts about traveling with a tour group is that all of the ground transportation is included. This was especially convenient for our longer trips like the grand tour if you were up where we were traveling to multiple countries over the course of 30 days. it was so nice to have a coach bus that we hopped on anytime we were going to our next destination. In addition to offering a coach bus any additional ground transportation like trains are included as well.

Activities, Guided Tours & Attraction Entry

Your itinerary will also include guided tours, entry to attractions in museums, and other group activities. These activities are always listed in the itinerary on the booking page. You also receive group benefits such as skipping lines at busy attractions!

Read more about our 30 days in Europe here!

Is EF Ultimate Break Overpriced?

When you first search for the price, you might think the cost is expensive. But considering how expensive flights, group transportation, and accommodations can be, the cost is very reasonable for a college-aged budget. (Remember that $1500 flight?) Do some searching on your own, and you’ll see expenses adding up and the benefits of EF Ultimate Break’s prices looking nicer and nicer. And the total cost isn’t due upfront; you can pay in monthly installments! We personally feel EF Ultimate Break prices are made incredibly reasonable for a young person.

Does EF Ultimate Break Offer Sales or Discounts?

One of the nicest parts if that EF offers promo codes and discounts throughout the year. They have Black Friday sales, semi-annual sales, year-end sales, first-time traveler discounts, and repeat traveler discounts!

Book with our referral link and get $100 off your next EF Ultimate Break trip in addition to any discounts being offered!

How Do I Book with EF Ultimate Break?

Now that you know EF Ultimate Break is legit. Let’s talk about booking a trip!

• Create an account with EF Ultimate Break
• Browse trips
• Select trip
• Select the trip departure location
• Select date (make sure to check the date include the style of trip you want! (Solo, plus, essential)
• Proceed to booking with a. $150 deposit

Booking with EF Ultimate Break is so easy. Put $150 down and your travel plans are locked in! During the booking process you will have the option to add optional excursions and select a payment plan. EF Ultimate Break also offers trip protection that covers you medically while on your trip.

Conclusion: EF Ultimate Break ReviewIn conclusion, EF Ultimate Break offers an exceptional travel experience for young adults seeking adventure, cultural immersion, and lifelong friendships. With well-planned itineraries, knowledgeable tour guides, and a diverse range of destinations to choose from, this travel company truly delivers on its promise to create unforgettable memories. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first trip abroad, EF Ultimate Break is a reliable option for those looking to explore the world in a fun and meaningful way.

To end this post, we’ll leave you with a little photo dump of some of our favorite EF Ultimate Break memories! You don’t want to miss out on the trip of a lifetime!

Like this review of EF Ultimate Break? Share with your friends!

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Travel tips for a Fourth of July that's set to break records

Luke Garrett

Airports around the United States are preparing for what could be the busiest Fourth of July travel season on record. The nation's roads are no different. Traffic could reach never-before-seen volumes over the Independence Day holiday.

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a press release. “We anticipate this July 4th week will be the busiest ever.”  

Nearly 71 million people are expected to make trips for the Independence Day travel period, AAA predicts.

Here's what to know about traveling for the holiday this week.

The TSA sets a new record and readies for another

Last week, a record-breaking 2.99 million passengers went through U.S. airports in a single day, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The agency said it's expecting a new travel record this week.

At Philadelphia International Airport, Gerardo Spero, the TSA’s federal security director for the airport, is dealing with an 8% passenger increase this year and is cautioning travelers to give themselves extra time.

“The best advice that I can offer is to get to the airport well before your ticketed departure time,” Spero said in a news release . “Now more than ever it is vital to give yourself plenty of time to park or return a rental car, check in with your airline to check bags and prepare for the security checkpoint."

There's usually no need to panic when planes make emergency landings. Here's why

Spero also said travelers can help each other out by being "efficient" in the security lines: take off shoes and belts preemptively, empty your pockets into your carry-on, and grab a bin early.

Over at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport — where travel volumes are up 5% — the TSA wants travelers to double-check their carry-on bags before they get to the airport.

“We are asking travelers to be good partners with TSA and ensure that they are prepared for the screening process," TSA Federal Security Director for Washington Greg Hawko said in a release . "Please don’t bring prohibited items in your carry-on luggage."

The busiest airport days are expected to be July 3, 7 and 8, according to flight website Hopper . The company projects Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth and Denver airports to be the ones with the most travelers.

This rise in summer air travel comes amid heightened attention on aircraft maker Boeing's quality control practices after a door plug blew out on a 737 Max jet in midair at the start of the year. Still, flying is the safest way to travel .

On the road

Nearly one in five Americans are set to drive more than 50 miles this Fourth of July travel season, according to an AAA forecast .

If you want to beat the traffic, drive early. INRIX, a transportation data provider, said driving on Monday should save travelers time. Any day after that, the best time to drive is before 10 a.m.

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7, as they return,” Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX , said in a statement. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal.” 

When driving on the wrong side of the road is the right way to speed up traffic

If you are preparing for a longer road trip with family and friends, AAA recommends running through this checklist: check kids' car seats, bring an emergency pack (first aid, jumper cables, snacks and water) and map the route.

At the pump, drivers can expect lower gas prices than last year with a gallon costing an average of $3.50. In 2023, gas cost $3.53 per gallon and in 2022, it cost nearly $5.

This year, the states with the most expensive gas are California ($4.80), Hawaii ($4.71), Washington ($4.21), Oregon ($4.07), Nevada ($4.04), Alaska ($3.90), Illinois ($3.88), Michigan ($3.70), Washington, D.C. ($3.66), and Indiana ($3.65).

Another cost to consider is tolls. Not all states have them, but check your route on Toll Guru to see how much change you might need on hand or how much money to have loaded on the E-ZPass.

The weather factor

High temperatures and a few thunderstorms are in the forecast for much of the country, according to AccuWeather . Both can cause travel delays.

The worst heat is expected in California.

Heat wave safety tips from the world's first chief heat officer

"It's going to be downright hot across the Southwest, especially in California and the Desert Southwest where record highs will be challenged," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Joseph Bauer told the website.

The Southern Plains and Southeast regions are also expected to feel the heat over the Independence Day weekend with higher than average temperatures.

High temperatures can slow down travel. When temperatures get too high, railway tracks can start to bend — forcing trains to slow down or stop completely. And planes may face weight restrictions during severe heat.

Traveling during the morning or evening can help offset the risk of heat-related delays.

While much of the country will face high temperatures on the Fourth of July, the Northern Plains, Midwest and portions of the Northeast may see thunderstorms, according to AccuWeather.

Flight delays and cancellations

As a rule, airlines are required to offer travelers a refund or book them another flight if they cancel a passenger's flight. The rules surrounding flight delays are more complicated.

Airlines are ordered to give full refunds instead of vouchers and to stop hiding fees

This U.S. Department of Transportation chart offers a full list of specific airline cancellation and delay policies.

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6 Beaches to Love This July 4 (and All Summer Long)

From Hawaii to Rhode Island, here are some of our favorite shores on which to enjoy some hard-earned R & R this Independence Day holiday.

By The New York Times

Perhaps you already have a favorite beach — one where already you know how to nab a free parking space, where the best shady spot is and when the soft-serve truck makes its rounds.

If you’re looking to mix it up this July 4, or throughout the summer, here are six beach destinations around the United States to inspire a new adventure.

Keep in mind that AAA projects that this Independence Day holiday period will be a record breaker . Nearly 71 million people are expected to travel 50 or more miles from home between June 29 and July 7, including more than 60 million on the roads — so be safe and leave plenty of time for the drive.

Which U.S. beach do you think is unbeatable? Let us know in the comments (or protect your secret — we get it).

Discover a refreshing gem in Rhode Island

The next time you’re sitting in traffic, inching toward the Hamptons, Cape Cod or another congested beach hot spot, consider the virtues of South County, R.I. (known officially as Washington County). This gem of the Ocean State, with 100 miles of coastline, is two and a half hours from Manhattan and one and a half hours from Boston, and it requires no planes or ferries. Between the coastal communities of Watch Hill and Charlestown, 14 public beaches beckon.

Sprint down an epic dune to sparkling Lake Michigan

Racing down the Dune Climb, a 300-foot sand dune, is one of the most popular activities in a corner of northwest Michigan called Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Kids gallop and roll down, their squeals as high-pitched as the cries of the herring gulls overhead. At the bottom you’re sweaty and breathless — but awaiting you is shimmering, sapphire-blue Lake Michigan, endless as an ocean. Just be ready for the oxygen-sucking, slipping-and-sliding clamber back uphill.

Stroll and splash along a serene beach path on Maui

The Wailea Beach Path, which meanders along Maui’s southern coast, reflects the island’s almost contradictory personas: On one side of the path, opulent resorts flaunt swim-up bars and nightly torch-lighting ceremonies. A subtler drama unfolds on the opposite side, where native flora like honey-scented naio bushes, spiky hala trees and hibiscus blossoms flourish along the rocky shoreline. Cool off along the way with dips in the waves.

Take a loop to hidden Oregon beaches

West Coast road trippers who stick to U.S. 101, the main north-south coastal highway, miss out on something spectacular. The Three Capes Scenic Loop winds 40 miles along windswept cliffs, through towering forests of centuries-old Sitka spruce and past charming beaches, including those along Netarts Bay, home to a string of oyster farms.

Seek your “perfect beach” on Puerto Rico’s northern coast

Ever visited a beach so impossibly sublime, you fear it may not live up your fond memory of it? For the writer Mya Guarnieri, that superb stretch of golden sand was Punta Caracoles Beach (as it is listed on some maps) in Puerto Rico, about an hour’s drive west of San Juan. Her journey to rediscover it took her to several others on the island’s northern coast — including La Poza del Obispo, whose natural rock formation creates a crystal clear pool that is perfect for floating — that could become your perfect beach, too.

Pick your paradise along Florida’s 30A

The coast along State Road 30A — a 24-mile stretch of the Florida Panhandle — is famous for its soft “sugar sand,” pulverized quartz crystal washed downstream from Appalachia thousands of years ago. Dig your toes in at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, which offers three miles of undeveloped coast. Look for the sail-shaped dune rising 25 feet that gave the park its name. (Before swimming at beaches along 30A, visitors should check the beach for warning flags that may indicate dangerous conditions.)

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

London:  A writer used Camille Pissarro’s paintings of suburban London and a “lost” railway as a lens for exploring the city’s history  — and settling an arcane mystery.

Dublin,:  While the Irish capital has become a more international hub, locals have made efforts to ensure what makes the city unique — its spirited personality and famed hospitality  — doesn’t get entirely swallowed up.

Norway:  Can A.I. devise a bucket-list vacation to the Scandinavian nation that checks all the boxes: culture, nature, hotels and transportation? We put three virtual assistants to the test .

The Berkshires:  A writer shares his favorite ways to experience the often-overlooked  Housatonic River in western Massachusetts.

Watch CBS News

Travel official on navigating 4th of July weekend rush

Fourth of July 2024: Best and worst times to travel to avoid record-setting traffic

T his Fourth of July weekend is projected to break travel records as nearly 6 million passengers board flights and millions more take the roads to reach their holiday destinations.

Approximately 71 million travelers are expected to venture 50 miles or more from their homes during the Independence Day holiday period, reflecting a 5% increase compared to 2023 and an 8% increase over 2019, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA).

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work , more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA travel. 

“We anticipate this July 4th week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”  

AAA anticipates a record-breaking 60.6 million people will travel by car this year, surpassing last year’s estimates by 2.8 million travelers.

This year, gas prices are lower nationally, with the current average at $3.491 per gallon as of Monday, down from $3.538 during the same period last year, according to AAA’s gas price tracker . 

However, in Washington D.C. , the average price for a gallon of regular gas was $3.665 on Monday. This marks a decrease from the $3.701 per gallon recorded a month ago.

People can find cheaper gas by using the GasBuddy app to locate the best-priced gas stations near their location.

Over the past few years, D.C. has experienced a 182% increase in fatal car crashes on this holiday compared to other days.

According to INRIX, a provider of transportation data and insights, the worst times to travel by car before and on July 4th are between 2pm and 7pm. 

They recommend morning departures for drivers and advise travelers returning on Monday, July 8th to avoid rush hour traffic both in the morning and afternoon.

“Drivers in large metro areas can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3rd, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Road trips over the holiday week could take up to 67% longer than normal.” 

Every year in D.C., there is an Independence Day parade early in the afternoon at Seventh Street and Constitution Avenue, causing road closures from 7th Street to 17th Street. 

Later in the evening, the annual fireworks display further disrupts traffic, with closures extending from 14th Street to the Lincoln Memorial.

Between Friday, June 28 and Monday, July 8, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates more than 28 million people will be traveling nationally, a 5.4% increase from last year’s Independence Day holiday numbers.

With an average price for domestic roundtrip tickets at $800, domestic airfare for the Fourth of July week is 2% cheaper than last year.

As a precaution, travelers are advised to arrive at airports two hours early, pre-book parking in advance, and opt for carry-on luggage instead of checked bags to save time and money .

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Over 4.6 million people are expected to travel by buses, cruises , and trains , marking a 9% increase from last year.

Cruise lines are offering summer deals amid high demand, particularly for Alaska cruises, making Seattle and Anchorage top domestic destinations this time of year.

Family trips

There's no trip like a family trip. When your family joins one of our group tours, you'll enter a new world of unforgettable educational experiences together.

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We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.

That’s all it takes to secure a spot on one of our group tours when you sign up for AutoPay . Plus, you can pay in interest-free, monthly installments.

While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about .

Take off on your big adventure— but why stop there? Every trip you book with us earns rewards that you can use to keep expanding your horizons.

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What travelers are saying about their family trips

3 benefits of family group tours.

Traveling with family is a great way to make lasting memories. Here’s why taking your family on a group tour is even better.

You can experience other cultures together Family tours will bring you closer together in ways you couldn’t imagine. There’s simply no better way to experience other traditions than with the people who created yours.

There’s no stress When you go on a guided family tour, everything is planned for you—from transportation to activities and even most meals. We do all the work, so you can have all the fun.

It’s not just your family Family trips with Go Ahead Tours mean your family will be a part of a larger group tour. If you'd rather keep it all in the family, you can also  book private family group tours  for seven or more.

Frequently asked questions about our family travel packages

While all of our tours are family friendly, Italy, England, France, Greece, and the U.S. National Parks are our most popular destinations for families. Here are a few family friendly vacations that we recommend:

• London, Paris & Rome: You can see the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, visit Versailles Palace, explore the Colosseum, and drool over delicious pizza and pasta together.
• The Greek Islands: Relax together in Mykonos, see the stunning coastline in Santorini, and learn all about the characters of Greek mythology like the Minotaur and Zeus.
• A City Stay tour: Live like locals. Our City Stay experiences offer families the chance to go at their own paces, while having access to a guide whenever they need it.

Read more about these three family friendly vacations .

When planning a trip with family, it can be hard to find a time that works for everyone. That ’ s why we offer a variety of week-long, escorted family tours, including:

• A Week in Switzerland, Germany & Austria
• A Week in Ireland: Dublin, Cork & Galway 
• Venice, Florence & Rome
• Costa Rica: Rainforests, Volcanoes & Wildlife

Any tours highlighted on this page are great tours for families. Some of our best family-friendly tours to Europe include:

• London, Paris & Rome
• The Greek Islands
• German Heritage Tour
• A Week in Ireland
• Highlights of Scotland & England

If you’re coming from the U.S. and looking at family travel packages to other countries, yes. However, if you’re looking at our family friendly vacations to  U.S. National Parks  or our  Wild Alaska Cruise , you’re in the clear. If you’re traveling from Canada to the U.S, you will need a passport. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.

None of our tours are specifically for families, but you are always welcome to bring your family on them! Whether you’re traveling with your cousins, parents, children, or grandchildren, our tours are perfect for families of all kinds. Just know that children must be at least 7 years old to travel with us, and some tours may not have other families on them. Learn more about our private and customized tours .

Most optional excursions will be available for purchase prior to your tour, online, or over the phone, as well as on tour.

Know where you want to travel?

See the latest from our travelers @goaheadtours.

NDP MP who's rarely on Parliament Hill billed taxpayers for travel with family over Christmas

Niki ashton billed taxpayers for $17k trip to meet 'stakeholders' over the christmas break.

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An NDP MP who frequently joins parliamentary proceedings remotely from her riding billed the House of Commons for a trip she took to reportedly meet with "stakeholders" over the Christmas holidays in Quebec — travel that included bringing her husband and kids along at taxpayers' expense.

Parliamentary travel records indicate NDP MP Niki Ashton was only in Ottawa on one occasion for four days during the fall 2022 sitting.

But on Dec. 21 of that year, Ashton flew from Thompson, Man. to Ottawa — five days after the House of Commons had already risen for its Christmas break.

Ashton's partner Bruce Moncur, a former NDP nomination candidate, and their two children also made the trip with the MP to the nation's capital.

Then, on Christmas Day, 2022, the family of four travelled to Quebec City. Ashton billed the Commons for some of the expenses they incurred along the way.

Social media posts show Moncur and the children took in some of Quebec City's winter attractions, including an ice slide and snow tubing at Village Vacances Valcartier outside the city centre.

Ashton is also seen in those posts skating with her children and visiting the city's German Christmas Market.

In an Instagram post, Ashton thanked "progressive activists" for sharing their "inspiring work."

• Loophole leaves taxpayers picking up tab for MP travel
• House of Commons committee should close loophole on MPs' travel, Liberal MP says

The trip cost taxpayers $17,641.12, including $13,619.90 for airfare and other transportation, $2,508.39 for accommodations and $1,512.83 for meals and other incidentals, according to Commons records.

Ashton justified billing taxpayers for the trip by claiming she was going to Quebec City to "attend meetings with stakeholders about business of the House" over the holidays, according to House of Commons travel records.

Ashton's office referred inquiries about the travel to a party spokesperson.

Reached by phone Wednesday, an NDP spokesperson said Ashton was in the provincial capital "to discuss language priorities" because she's the party's critic for official languages and needed to "find out things she needs to prioritize."

Ashton also "met with a union person," the spokesperson said.

On Dec. 30, 2022, Ashton, Moncur and their children then travelled to Montreal. Ashton again cited "meetings with stakeholders" as the reason for claiming expenses.

NDP MP questioned about Quebec trip with family paid by taxpayers

The NDP spokesperson said Ashton was again engaging with people about "linguistic issues" while in the province's biggest city.

The family returned to Ottawa on New Year's Eve before flying home to Thompson early in the new year.

At a press conference on another matter on Thursday, Ashton was asked repeatedly who she met with while in Quebec.

Ashton would only say that it was "various people" who are "connected to the issue of French language, French culture preservation." She said she wanted to get feedback on an overhaul of the Official Languages Act from unnamed groups.

Asked if she regretted the Christmas season trip, Ashton said the travel was approved by Commons administration and her job involves "travel and meeting with stakeholders, engaging with stakeholders."

The NDP spokesperson said Ashton "paid out of pocket" for some additional expenses incurred on statutory holidays like Christmas Day.

The spokesperson added that some of the trip expenses were related to the family staying at a hotel while in Ottawa — and not at her second residence in the city — because her apartment was being treated for bed bugs.

The spokesperson said Ashton is in Ottawa less often than some of her colleagues because she's the mother of two young children and participating virtually — which is permissible under the rules — is a better fit for her schedule.

In a media statement sent to CBC News, Alana Cahill, the party's director of communications, said Ashton is "a strong representative for the people of northern Manitoba" who "sometimes travels to other parts of the country in order to meet with experts and advocates on the infrastructure challenges facing northern, rural communities and for work related to her critic portfolios."

"House of Commons rules allow members of Parliament to travel for parliamentary business. Niki followed all the rules and the House of Commons approved her travel expenses," Cahill added.

'It smells really fishy' - CTF director

Franco Terrazzano is the federal director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, a group that advocates for lower taxes and more accountable government. He said Ashton's travel "looks really bad and it smells really fishy."

"If Ashton doesn't want Canadians to think that she billed taxpayers so she could take a vacation to Quebec over the holidays, then she better have a very good explanation, a very concrete explanation as to what value, if any, taxpayers actually got from this trip," Terrazzano told CBC News.

He said "ordinary Canadians" are struggling with the cost of living and they get frustrated seeing MPs charge for substantial travel expenses.

"Did taxpayers get more than $17,000 in value out of this trip? Maybe she could have saved taxpayers a whole bunch of money by picking up the phone instead — especially if Ashton is already Zooming into the parliamentary procedures," he said.

Terrazzano said there needs to be greater oversight of MP travel expenses and he's calling for some sort of "review" of what's allowable under the rules to prevent abuse.

Nearly $10,000 for a trip to Windsor

On another trip in May 2023, Ashton travelled — again with Moncur and her kids — to Windsor, Ont. where Moncur grew up and went to school and university.

The six-day trip to Windsor happened as Ashton was travelling infrequently to Ottawa for parliamentary proceedings.

Travel records suggest she was physically in the nation's capital for fewer than 30 days — including some weekends — over the first six months of 2023.

The Commons sat for 70 weekdays over the same time period.

Unlike senators, MPs can participate in debate and committee meetings virtually under pandemic-era rules that were made permanent in 2023.

The Windsor trip cost taxpayers $9,748.03 — all of it for airfare. Ashton did not charge for any accommodations or incidentals.

Ashton flew there to "attend meetings about constituency issues," according to the Commons travel records.

The NDP spokesperson said Ashton was in Windsor to meet with people associated with a "soccer recreation centre," to learn about "federal funding to create some soccer opportunities in northern Manitoba for Indigenous folks."

Ashton has in the past encouraged the federal government and FIFA, soccer's governing body, to invest more money so that more Indigenous youth can play the game.

While in Windsor, Ashton also travelled across the border to Detroit to meet with Democratic Congresswoman Rashida Talib, the NDP spokesperson said.

Rules allow MPs to take family on some official trips

The Commons' travel system allocates a certain number of points to an MP each year for travel.

But each trip must have "a specific purpose of travel and be for the purpose of the fulfilment of the Member's parliamentary functions," the Commons rules say.

The rules loosely define "parliamentary functions" as activities "relating to the proceedings and work of the House of Commons and activities undertaken in representing his or her constituency or constituents."

The rules do stipulate that "parliamentary functions" do not include "activities related to the private interests of a member or a member's immediate family."

The points can be used by a member to travel between Ottawa and their constituency, for travel within their constituency and for travel from Ottawa or the constituency to their provincial or territorial capital.

Some of the points can also be used for what the Commons calls "special trips" — other trips within Canada.

An MP can allocate some of their points to cover the travel costs of a "designated traveller" chosen by them — typically a spouse. An MP's dependents are also eligible to have some of their travel covered.

The rules stipulate that designated travellers and dependents can use points to "reunite" with an MP at their Ottawa residence or "at another location where the member is carrying out parliamentary functions."

Under the rules, MPs, designated travellers and dependents can travel in business class if the flight is more than two hours long.

Terrazzano said MPs should think "about what their constituents would say" before taking big-ticket trips. He also said the Commons should consider tightening the rules on when MPs can be accompanied by their families on subsidized trips.

Asked about Ashton's expenses, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said MPs have to follow strict rules in submitting their expenses to the House of Commons.

"I expect all my MPs and all MPs in the House to follow those rules and submit claims," Singh told reporters on Thursday. "Those claims were submitted and approved."

Last month, CBC News reported on a loophole in the rules that allows MPs and senators to charge Parliament for travel to party conventions.

Under the Commons rules, MPs can claim expenses related to national caucus meetings, which are considered part of their parliamentary duties.

Conservative MPs billed the House of Commons $426,283 to attend a caucus meeting associated with the party's policy convention in Quebec City in September 2023, including $331,699 for travel, $71,408 for accommodations and $21,053 for meals and incidentals.

NDP MPs also billed Parliament $83,087 to send MPs and a dozen of their employees to a caucus meeting associated with the party's convention in Hamilton in October 2023, according to a CBC News review of travel claims.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau routinely faces criticism over his travel.

Trudeau's 10-day vacation with his family at Prospect Estate near Ocho Rios in Jamaica cost taxpayers $230,442. Most of that was for security-related costs, which MPs don't have.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior reporter

J.P. Tasker is a journalist in CBC's parliamentary bureau who reports for digital, radio and television. He is also a regular panellist on CBC News Network's Power & Politics. He covers the Conservative Party, Canada-U.S. relations, Crown-Indigenous affairs, climate change, health policy and the Senate. You can send story ideas and tips to J.P. at [email protected]

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Fourth of July travel is set to break records. Here’s how to avoid crowds.

Tips for navigating traffic, hotels, heat and flight delays.

The 2024 summer travel season might be the busiest ever, and it’s reaching its peak ahead of the Fourth of July.

The Transportation Security Administration anticipated that the busiest day for holiday flights would be Friday, June 28, when it reported screening 2.9 million passengers. Five days before that, TSA set a new record with nearly 3 million passengers screened. The booking app Hopper projected that U.S. airports would be about as packed on Wednesday, July 3.

“With summer vacations in full swing and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are taking extended trips around Independence Day,” Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, said in a news release. “We anticipate this July 4th week will be the busiest ever with an additional 5.7 million people traveling compared to 2019.”

By The Way rounded up some of our best tips to help Fourth of July travelers navigate the traffic, airport crowds and heat.

The best and worst times to drive

Good news for those driving to their destinations for the Fourth: Gas prices are down nearly 17 percent from last year, according to Hopper, and AAA said prices should continue to fall ahead of the holiday.

INRIX , an analytics company that provides transportation data and insights, said the worst times to drive before and on the Fourth will be between 2 and 7 p.m., with congestion expected to be heaviest in the Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Houston and Philadelphia metro areas. The worst traffic delays for return travelers will hit on Sunday, July 7, INRIX said.

Hopper reports that rental car rates have stayed about the same since last July 4, while travel site Kayak says they’ve increased 9 percent. Experts recommend booking as early as possible to guarantee your vehicle — and to remember that if rates drop after you book, you can rebook at the lower price.

Still too expensive? You might find a deal on peer-to-peer car-rental apps, such as Turo , which have expanded in some parts of the country.

Look out for heat-related delays

Cities across the Lower 48 have been breaking temperature records this summer, and parts of the country will be broiling again for the Fourth. Besides baking travelers, such intense weather can cause planes to enforce weight restrictions , bumping passengers and delaying takeoffs.

Flights early in the morning and late in the evening have the best shot at avoiding heat-related delays. Make sure you have your airline’s app downloaded on your phone, and turn on notifications. That way, you’ll be among the first to find out about any delays or changes.

It might be tempting to wait at home if your flight is delayed, but airlines’ estimates sometimes can shrink and leave late arrivers stranded. If a delay is two hours or less, experts recommend playing it safe and getting to the airport in time for your original departure.

According to Kayak, LAX (Los Angeles), SFO (San Francisco), JFK (New York), BOS (Boston) and (EWR) Newark are the airports expected to experience the highest volume of travelers over the holiday weekend.

Hotel prices, busy spots and deals

Fourth of July travelers aren’t, in many cases, flying in to those top metro areas to visit the cities themselves, and especially not their downtowns, noted Jan Freitag, national director of hospitality analytics for the CoStar Group. That means last-minute bookers might be able to snag a deal in the heart of a city at a full-service hotel — think the ones with ballrooms and meeting rooms — and they might find more open reservations at midtown lunch or dinner spots, too.

“Because Fourth of July is a holiday where normally business travel and certainly group travel does not happen, that means, in downtown locations, often it’s easier to get rooms even in higher-end hotels, because it’s such a depressed demand situation for them,” Freitag said.

Las Vegas, New York, New Orleans, Orlando and Atlanta are the most popular hotel destinations for the Fourth, according to Priceline.

On average, AAA said , U.S. hotel rates are 17 percent higher around July 4 compared with last year. Hopper reports that hotel prices for the holiday weekend are running $232 per night, on average, and vacation rentals about $400 a night.

Prepare for the worst

Read up on your airline’s policy for cancellations and serious delays. Airlines are required to refund passengers or rebook them if a flight is canceled; some will rebook passengers through other carriers with whom they share agreements.

Hayley Berg, Hopper’s lead economist, recommended also studying up on what other flights are available to your destination, in case a cancellation or other change leaves you scrambling to find a new one. Knowing in advance can give you a slight edge over your fellow passengers who are trying to rebook in the moment. Those airline app alerts can give you a head start as well, and rebooking with an airport self-service kiosk usually saves time over running to a service desk.

“Even a five-minute advantage over the 200 people that just got canceled with you can make a big difference,” Berg told us last year.

If you really want to safeguard your holiday plans, you can book a backup flight , but you’ll need to be rock-solid about your airline’s cancellation policy before trying it.

A more straightforward contingency plan: If your Fourth of July destination is drivable, be ready to hit the road.

Natalie B. Compton and Hannah Sampson contributed to this report.

July Fourth

Travel: The holiday weekend for the Fourth of July is always a cause for travel disruptions and delays. Here are tips for navigating Fourth of July travel , which is expected to be the busiest ever.

Fireworks in D.C.: If you’re celebrating Independence Day in the nation’s capital, we’ve got tips for celebrating the Fourth across D.C. and the best places to watch D.C.'s fireworks . Here’s how to get around downtown as D.C.'s fireworks bring road closures and Metro changes .

Food: Grilling out is one of the hallmarks of Independence Day — here are some tips for your own barbecue . We rounded up all of our top July 4 recipes here . Looking for more side dishes? Here are some of our best pasta salad recipes.

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