I have traveled to over 80 countries, and am a female entrepreneur — founding my company Acanela Expeditions while still a Sophomore in University. What started out as a semester abroad, turned into a year of researching, networking, and traveling that helped me build the foundation for my business. Fast-forward a couple years and my university started business is now a million dollar company.
Say hello to Kelly - the winner of our Tulum, Mexico Trip Giveaway in partnership with our friends at General Assembly. We had the chance to catch up with Kelly and get the inside scoop on her experience! Read more below...
This November Brooke and Scott had the opportunity to travel to Punta Islita, Costa Rica as the winners of our Acanela Costa Rica Sweepstakes in partnership with PINCHme, Shopstyle, Newser, Brit & Co, Vinepair, and Rank and Style. They had the experience of a lifetime, and were gracious enough to share their story with us!
Our Largest Sale of the Season!
We are excited to announce our Acanela Top 10 Travel Experiences 2018, a list that highlights all the top destinations, activities, and experiences for this upcoming year! Inquire about exclusive DISCOUNTS on ALL of our 2018 Top Travel Experiences! In addition, we will be donating 2% of all revenue to our local Artisan communities in an effort to help alleviate poverty around the world!
Botswana Safari: Embark a journey through the wild landscapes of South Africa, Zambia, & Botswana. Experience the culture, animal life, and stunning landscapes of three of Africa's most beautiful countries while visiting breathtaking locations such as Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, and the Okavango Delta. Feel close to the heart of the savannah while staying at some of the most beautiful safari accommodation Africa has to offer. Botswana Safari
Tanzania Serengeti & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: The Serengeti is one of the world's most sought after safari lands. It is home to some of the largest numbered animal herds and indigenous tribes in all of Africa, and is considered to be one of the seven natural wonders of the world. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site the Serengeti boasts numerous lakes and rivers, the Great Rift Valley, and the world's largest caldera, the Ngorongoro Crater. The Serengeti is also within easy reach of Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar Islands, the Maasai Mara in Kenya. Embark a journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda - home to the highest concentration of primates on earth, including the mountain gorilla – now one of the rarest animals on the planet. There are nearly 800 mountain gorillas in the world and more than 450 of them reside in Uganda – mainly found in the epic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Still one of the world’s best kept natural secrets, Uganda in home to pristine lakes, majestic mountains, and some of the most incredible wildlife in Africa. Tanzania Serengeti Safari & Uganda Gorilla Trekking
Morocco: Few countries hold as much dreamy fascination for travelers as the beautiful country of Morocco. Desert fortresses rise out of the sands of the Sahara. Sapphire oceans caress white sandy beaches. The purple peaks of the Atlas Mountains glitter with snow. Visit Morocco to see all of these sights and more. Behind every city wall is an adventure in art, architecture and cuisine. The winding alleyways of the Medina give way to the bustling souks, tent after tent filled with brightly colored silks and baskets of spices. Morocco is made up of four different areas: the Sahara desert, full of Berber towns and oases; the Atlas and Rif Mountains, perfect for hikers; the plains which are home to the imperial cities of Marrakesh and Fez; and finally the sandy coastlines of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, graced by small beach towns and the cities of Rabat and Casablanca. Morocco Expedition
Spain: Andalusia ranks as the largest region in Spain, stretching south from the sunny cities of Cordoba and Grenada all the way to the Atlantic ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Andalusia embodies the classic image of Spain to the fullest, from the flamenco dancing and bullfighting to the flamboyant nightlife and ancient architecture. Andalusia also boasts many delicious foods, offering travelers a chance to stimulate their palettes while exploring the region. Andalusia Spain Culinary Tour
Greece: The islands are the main characteristic of Greece’s morphology and an integral part of the country’s culture and tradition. Greek sovereign land includes 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, of which only 227 islands are inhabited. This is a truly unique phenomenon for the European continent.The Greek Islands are known for its volcanic-sand beaches, whitewashed buildings, blue roof tops and crystal-clear waters. You will have an adventure of your lifetime exploring ancient ruins, different islands, outdoor water sports and more! Santorini Greece Culinary Tour
Italy: Set amid some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on the planet, these five ingeniously constructed fishing villages can bolster the most jaded of spirits. Rooted in antiquity, Cinque Terre's five villages date from the early medieval period. Monterosso, the oldest, was founded in AD 643, when beleaguered hill dwellers moved down to the coast to escape from invading barbarians. Riomaggiore came next, purportedly established in the 8th century by Greek settlers fleeing persecution in Byzantium. The others are Vernazza, Corniglia and Manarola. Much of what remains in the villages today dates from the late High Middle Ages, including several castles and a quintet of illustrious parish churches. Cinque Terre Italy Culinary Tour
Iceland: At a place where two continents quite literally brush up against each other, Iceland is a dynamic land of fire and ice. Get up close to natural wonders as you make your way through lava tubes, observe active volcanoes, and watch for whales off the coast. From geysers to glaciers, the elements are on full display in Iceland. Walk atop a glacier in Vatnajökull National Park, and visit the iceberg-dotted Jökulsárlón lagoon. Relax at the famous Blue Lagoon with geothermal water. Stroll along the black-sand beaches at Reynisfjara, and visit waterfall and glaciers everyday! Iceland Nothern Lights Expedition
Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary: Unlock the lesser-known, picturesque side of Europe with this expedition combing cityscapes, national parks, and rolling countryside, while exploring then in depth along the way. Learn about the complicated history of Eastern Europe while sampling delicious local cuisine, visiting majestic castles and fortresses, and exploring pristine national parks. Travel by train through the countries of Czech Republic, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary while stopping along the way to explore pristine mountains, traditional castles, and wineries. Enjoy food and wine tours through Prague, Slovakia, and Hungary as we dine on delicious Eastern European food. Explore the lesser-known Tatra Mountains in Slovakia as we explore and coe to understand the developing eco-tourism in the area. Enjoy daily discussions with local artisans who will help you engage with a new place and new traditions and turn them into memories, stories, and photos that will last a lifetime. Eastern Europe Expedition - $500 Off with code "BLACKFRIDAY"!
Thailand, Cambodia, & Vietnam: What better way to experience Asia than a dedicated culinary tour to savor its tapestry of tastes, colors, and smells? This culinary expedition is specially designed for gourmet enthusiasts with an appetite for cooking, eating, and adventure. Explore Bangkok’s streets as you discover diverse Thai curries, prepare noodle soup alongside the top Vietnamese chefs, and mingle in the Cambodian market crowds as you select local spices. Visit the beautiful Ankor Wat Temple in Cambodia (one of the new 7 wonders of the world), tour local floating markets and ancient fishing village, and take a boat ride through the Mekong Delta & rice fields of Vietnam. Southeast Asia Culture & Cuisine Tour
India: Welcome to India, home to prestigious maharajas, majestic forts, glittering palaces, and divine cuisine. Rajasthan (Northern India) is a land of sand dunes, jungle, camel trains, wild tigers, glittering jewels, vivant colors, and succulent curries. The tranquility of the old cities, the bustle of ancient bazaars, and the lively culinary scene – have more than enough to offer. Dive deep into traditions, history, and great food. Kerala (Southern India) is famed for its delightful people, tropical scenery, and delicious food. On our culinary and cultural journey we will be exposed to a diversity of experiences. We will dine on succulent coconut curries, seafood straight from the Malabar Coast, rotis and naan hot out of the tandoori oven, spiced vegetables, sweet lentil dishes, and an assortment of meats doused in delicious masalas. India & the Taj Mahal Expedition
Japan: Kyoto & Tokyo are exceptional destinations for those who truly want to discover authentic Japanese cultures. Museums, shrines and temples, cuisine, theater and shopping all merge at your doorstep to offer a seemingly endless choice of diversions. From your centrally located hotel, you will find famous sites such as the Fushimi Inari Jinja Shrine, the Kiyomizu Temple, and Nijo-jo Castle are only a short walk away. Your home for this week is also strategically positioned to take full advantage of the professional kitchens where you will cook during your stay. Led by an expert chef, you will be exposed to a variety of culinary and cultural highlights designed to fully immerse you into the Japanese way of life. Kyoto to Tokyo Japan Tour
Peru: Join us on an epic adventure through the Amazon Jungle and across ancient Aztec & Incan ruins where you will learn how to capture the culture, history, and landscapes of Peru on camera. Climb Machu Picchu at sunrise, visit the bustling markets of Ollantaytambo and Pisac, experience a home stay in an isolated Incan village, and canopy walk through the Amazon jungle. Travel with some of the best trekking guides and local photographers that Peru has to offer. Peru Expedition
Ecuador: Join us as we adventure to the Equator, visiting Quito, hiking Mount Cotopaxi, and visiting the diverse nature reserves of the Amazon jungle and the Galapagos Islands. Learn how to capture the culture, wildlife, and landscapes of Ecuador & the Galapagos on camera. This is a fantastic opportunity to make memories of a lifetime & develop a photo portfolio of your own that can be proudly shared with the world. Ecuador Expedition
Antarctica: Join Acanela on an amazing journey to the 7th Continent. Antarctica has been inspiring explorers for centuries, and this expedition offers you the chance to discover why, with an unforgettable journey through the spectacular wilderness of the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. You’ll encounter a world where nature creates the rules, her unpredictable temperament making each trip unique, exciting and personal. Imagine cruising in a Zodiac through crackling sea ice like shattered glass, witnessing penguins building their nests, and navigating through a maze of icebergs, each one uniquely shaped by its journey through the sea. You’ll enjoy iconic Antarctic highlights and exhilarating adventures, and will create memories to last a lifetime. Antarctica Expedition
Congratulations to one of our sweepstakes winners, Stephanie Sturgeon who won a 3-day Acanela x Yogaescapes retreat in Sonoma Valley, California. She just completed her trip this August and is excited to share her story with you.
Throughout the end of the year and into next year we will be featuring the stories of our sweepstakes winners who have embarked out on trips with Acanela and our Partners over the course of the past couple months. Hopefully their stories will inspire you to continue your travel aspirations and one day will also travel with Acanela.
Chao-Do in Japanese means the way of tea. Similar to martial arts and any other forms of art that’s considered a Do, to study this art, it is more than the study of tea or the ritual, Japanese tea ceremony and the art of tea has very deep philosophical meanings as well. For one to become a master of the tea ceremony, it takes years of disciplined practice, even a whole life time of true dedication and devotion to become a true master. Aside from mastering the rich knowledge of the art of tea, mastering the art of tea ceremony is also a practice of unlocking one’s inner peace or Zen if you will.
Lehi.Space is an 8,000+ square foot coworking space in Lehi Utah featuring shared spaces, private desks, and small offices (for teams of 1–10+). Common spaces have a distinct aesthetic that will inspire your creativity as an individual and/or collaboration as team. Memberships start at $50 with access to shared office facilities and events. Amenities include Fiber Internet, Common Areas, Conference Rooms, Printers/Scanners, onsite staff, 24/7 Access, Drinks & Snacks, and unique networking events!
The Lehi Coworking Space is set to open in April 2018, and Acanela Expeditions will open up it's second office in Utah and be one of it's first tenants. Register Now for your shared office at Lehi.Space!
Fodor's listed some of the spookiest places in the world and, to be honest, some of them will scare your socks off!
Acanela Expeditions' founder, Kylie Chenn, sits down with Alexa Jorgenson of Munchin' With Moguls to discuss how to have a more enriching experience when traveling. Highlights include Acanela's backstory, how to embrace the local culture, balancing life with travel, and an anecdote about sun-dried mice. Intrigued? Pull out your headphones and listen to this awesome podcast!
If you’re in the mood for a relaxation vacation, you know you need to find a good beach spot! Luckily, there’s no shortage of fantastic beaches in the world, and we’ve hand-picked a few to demonstrate the diversity of beaches across the globe. Although they’re all spectacular, each location has its own unique vibe. That's what makes it so exciting to choose where in the world you want to vacation!
Southeast Asia is full of exciting opportunities for visitors, and Myanmar and Laos are two of the region’s best kept secrets. These two countries are often forgotten by travelers, but they offer some of the most phenomenal adventure excursions in Asia. Read on to discover what awaits you when you book your plane ticket!
For travelers looking for a trip centered around relaxation and meditation, Mallorca is the place to be. This idyllic Spanish island is the perfect location for wellness retreats, which will leave you feeling rejuvenated and balanced. If you’re curious as to why Mallorca is such a popular destination, read on to discover the virtues of this special island!
Iceland has been one of the most popular travel destinations of 2017, and it’s easy to see why! The land of fire and ice has captured visitors’ imaginations with its plethora of natural wonders, from volcanoes to glaciers to lush green landscapes. Though many of these locations might be difficult to pronounce, they’re some of the most scenic places in the entire world. Book your flight and get your camera ready!
India is a spectacular country, full of natural beauty, artistic wonders, and rich culture. Northern India is particularly exemplary of these qualities: it is a proud, vibrant region that beckons to travelers time and time again with its promise of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, which is why it remains an Acanela favorite. To understand what we mean, check out the following highlights of Northern India-- and just try not to start daydreaming about booking your flight out there!
Read about our first Acanela humanitarian group in majestic India last summer! If you are a seamstress or knitter, you can contribute your talents in an intimate travel opportunity to teach women in a rural community of Hyderabad, India how to make traditional Indian clothing and useful household supplies.
Greece is an alluring destination to many travelers because of its reputation as a beautiful and laid-back country, but some don’t realize what a truly multifaceted country it is. Greece caters to so many different types of people and offers such varied experiences that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure of what you should do. To help you get the most out of your trip to Greece, we’ve highlighted some of the best things to do during your stay!
