After traveling with Lindblad Expeditions for the first time, there is a lot to like. Here, I have narrowed that list down to ten unique elements of the Lindblad Expeditions Experience. I suspect this list will grow as I reflect on it in the coming days.

1. Flawless Transfers- As compared to a standard “cruise” itinerary, this one involved a number of land travel elements.
2. Zodiac Landings- National Geographic Islander II never docked. Access to and from the ship was via zodiac (like a big rubber raft), the right tool for the job considering that we never even saw a dock.
3. Accurate Pre-travel Gear Suggestions ranged from good hiking shoes to hats, walking sticks, photo equipment, and more. Take those seriously.
4. Not For Bystanders- This is an active travel experience with lots of walking, hiking, and water-related activities.
5. Locally Sourced And Supported- Dining options reflected what was available that day, wherever we were. That brought a double dip of destination immersion, supporting local producers as well as reflecting the cuisine of wherever we were.
6. Qualified Naturalists and Photographers– Sticking with the double dip theme, those who led our expedition were National Geographic and Local Tourism-certified to be there. Bonus: their love of where we went harkens back to the fact that many of them live in the area. They were showing us around their home.
7. Nothing Trumps Destination Focus– At the top of the experience pecking order are the places we visited in all ways possible and then some. Dining was far more focused on engaging conversations around the table than what was on the menu. It was just one more element that supported the itinerary. I enjoyed menu items I had never heard of
8. Extreme Environmental Focus- There’s no messing around on this topic. Perhaps highlighted by the delicate balance required to maintain the Galapagos, Lindblad was right on board with this topic from day one, on land or water.
9. Active And Doable- As noted in #4 above, this is an active travel experience. Still, there are options for everyone and nothing is “required” of anyone. Not comfortable hiking? Lindblad will take you on a zodiac ride that covers much of the same.
10. Hungry For More- At the end of the expedition, on the plane ride home, I looked back upon what I had experienced. I commonly want to answer the question: “What was your favorite part?”. On a standard cruise, I can get to that answer rather quickly. It seems the bigger the ship, the easier that question is to answer. With this expedition, I am left with more questions than answers and I think that’s a very good thing.