Photo essay – Enchanting Canyonlands, by Insight Vacations

The United States has been one of the first of nations in the Americas to bolt out of the pandemic slumber to re-embrace local, and yes, international travel. The bounce back to a Soaring ’20’s new normal is impressive to watch, and one of the first trips operated by Insight Vacations there celebrates the beauty of the breathtaking, iconic American Canyonlands. I understand the draw of the wide open spaces of the American National Parks (and I should mention here that Canada’s National Parks are also absolutely exceptional, and I return as often as I can), and that’s why I chose the USA Enchanting Canyonlands as my own very first experience travelling in true Insight Vacations Premium style back in July, 2017. 

This dream journey visits The Grand Canyon, Monument National Park, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park, and stands out as it includes stays at lodges right in the protected lands. I was impressed from the start. Several mornings, I chose to wake extra early to wander around to appreciate the solitude and glorious morning illumination that comes with sunrise, and taking in the star attractions just steps from my cabin. Having hotel lodges right in the National Parks has its privileges, and easy access to the iconic sights made all of the difference in enjoying my relaxed free time. 

I was one of several who travelled solo on this trip, and we did not feel at all out of place. We had our solo travel adventures – I admit I am an easy solo traveller who can find lots of things to keep well-occupied – but welcomed the camaraderie of new friends when we sought witty banter, shared laughter and human connection.

Roger, our kind and experienced Travel Director, was terrific. Roger quickly got to know everyone in the group, and made sure each of us was having the very best holiday. Exceptional Travel Directors know exactly how to ask the right questions to uncover your expectations and desires, and find ways to subtly suggest activities to personalize free time plans to ensure your experiences are even more meaningful and fun. The multi-generational family units on the trip had the time of their lives, and were a joy to watch as they made heartwarming memories they will surely take with them and appreciate in the years to come. Great fun for everyone!

If you love the idea of exploring some of the most iconic American wide open spaces and National Parks, and are looking for a trip that will appeal to all generations of travellers, Enchanting Canyonlands has my vote.

Traveller tip: The Enchanting Canyonlands included the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park experience with an optional Colorado River Float Trip immersive experience that was truly amazing, and were accompanied by local Navaho guides who calmly and passionately described their culture and history. The Navajo name for this land is Tsé Biiʼ Ndzisgaii, or the valley of rocks, and the Colorado River has carved through the rocks over time to create a winding, snaking, dramatic surge that acts as the perfect vantage point to take in the massive rocks and sandstone buttes that give this region its name. Effortlessly floating down the Colorado River, legs dangling off our raft as I took in the fascinating stories, cultural teachings, traditions, and beliefs of the Diné (meaning People), shared by our Navaho guide was an experience that came straight off my travel wanderlist, and a memory I will, no doubt, cherish forever.

Why Go Guided? More than ever before, a guided holiday with knowledgeable, reliable and diligently-prepared travel specialists who will take care of every concern, well-being protocol and detail and who work behind the scenes so you can simply focus on having fun, just makes sense. Roger, my Travel Director, made me feel comfortable on my journey from day one, and even waited for me to arrive at our start hotel late from a delayed flight from Canada to make sure I was well and had the information I needed to start my next day. Just one of the many reasons I felt well cared for and important throughout my journey.

Consult an expert Travel Advisor. Like any good Physician or Financial Advisor, an expert Travel Advisor is a professional who will get to know you, and offer quality travel experiences such as those offered by Insight Vacations.

I recognize that much of our understanding of the Diné culture is sparse at best. This incredible people have a fascinating lineage that can be traced back to ancestors thousands of years ago, and believe they came to their land by emerging through four levels of worlds, to currently residing in the fourth level, the “Glittering World”.

The Navajo Tourism Department has gathered useful information for travellers who are interested in visiting.

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