Happy New Year!

Like many, we can get reflective around New Year's, looking back on the past year and looking forward with optimism to the future.

2021 was no walk in the park, but for us it sure did beat 2020. Despite many countries (like Japan) remaining closed, for travelers it was possible to visit an increasing number of destinations this year.

Of course, travel isn't everything, but if you're reading this newsletter then it's probably an integral part of your life!

When the pandemic started, our original company (like so many others around the world), found itself in a tough spot.

Whereas our work had previously consisted of designing and executing itineraries — not to mention research trips — all of a sudden our main task became handling the sudden disruption of our cherry blossom season itineraries. It was important work, if not always exhilarating.

To stay inspired, as a team we decided to find another creative outlet, and launched a podcast called Change of Plans, featuring small business entrepreneurs from around the world who had found imaginative ways to thrive during the early days of the pandemic. It had nothing to do with travel per se, but served as a fulfilling project.

Yet ultimately the new endeavor that most captured our engagement was Boutique Explorer.

When we first launched, very few people were traveling internationally, and our original focus was domestic road trips through places such as the United States and Australia — vintage 2020!

Eventually, we shifted from road trips to what we do best: unique, private trips with a cultural and culinary focus.⁠

Our first few additions were Mexico, Italy, and Colombia, and throughout 2020 and 2021 we've continued to add new destinations based on our personal and professional experience and expertise.

Over the past year, we've had the chance to plan client trips to various countries open to quarantine-free travel, including Mexico, Italy, Spain, Peru, and more.

Travel to some parts of the world remains complex or off limits, but even now there are a surprising number of places you can visit for a fun and fulfilling adventure.

We'd love to help you with your next special trip, and can also provide insight on where best to travel now, and which countries to save for the future. Contact us here, or simply reply to this email, to begin brainstorming.

Wishing you a healthy, happy, and hopefully travel-filled 2022!