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Dear Traveler,
Summer is almost here, which means the school year is coming to a close and many are gearing up for summer trips—both to visit friends and family and to explore the world. Within the U.S., trips out West are popular this year, and Alaska continues to attract travelers eager to experience its rugged beauty and mesmerizing wildlife.
For those heading abroad, Europe remains a favorite. Many are visiting popular destinations—Greece, Italy, Spain, France, and Portugal—while Northern Europe is also seeing increased interest. In fact, for the first time, I have more clients cruising Northern Europe than the Mediterranean. A portion of my own family will be part of this shift—we’ll be on a 7-day cruise from Copenhagen to Stockholm, visiting a majority of the countries bordering the Baltic Sea. Asia also continues to be a top destination, as the summer months give families enough time to embark on more immersive journeys across the Pacific.
Japan, in particular, remains a favorite among my clients. Several have recently returned from trips in late 2024 and early 2025, and a few others have trips planned for later this year. I’m also working on my own family’s 2026 spring break. With a full two weeks off next year, we’ve decided it’s the perfect time to discover—or in my case, revisit—this remarkable country where centuries-old traditions meet modern city life. Given Japan’s continued popularity, I’ve devoted this week’s blog post to an overview of the country, highlighting many of the top cities and regions worth exploring.
For my travel news, tips, and updates this week, I've included a list of 15 Unwritten Rules You Should Know Before Traveling to Japan (according to Condé Nast Traveler). In honor of my youngest daughter's love of whales and her trip this summer to try to see them, a list of 12 of the best locations for whale watching around the globe. And given the recent news about increased screening of phones and other electronic devices on entry to the U.S., an article weighing whether you Should You Use a Burner Phone When You Travel? Plus, How to Secure Your Personal Mobile Device. Last, the latest edition of Virtuoso Magazine is now available, with more ideas on where to travel in 2025 and 2026.
Best,
David
Owner, Barclay & Company Travel
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