Ker & Downey

04/04/2025

Festivals and events around the world give great insight into a community and culture. While we live in an age of virtual events, you can't truly experience some things unless you're there.

In the bio link, you'll find some of the most exclusive events and biggest festivals around the world. And one only happens every ten years. These are the festivals and events around the world that are worth traveling for!

04/02/2025

Go on a delicious Tokyo tour. Our Product Manager Vanessa got to dig into the bustling city's food scene. She met with chef Yoshiyuki Funyu who uses traditional techniques and ingredients popular in Edo which was Tokyo's old name from 1603 to 1868.

Some things Vanessa learned about the history of Tokyo's food:

🐟Tuna was often seen as a low-class food because it couldn't be preserved well and had to be cooked.

🌾White rice vinegar was once rare because of the filtration process so red-hued rice vinegar was common.

🥩Eating meat was taboo, but that didn't stop people from eating it. They just disguised the meat as a tonic or treatment for illness.

"His thoughts on the Tokyo's culinary scene revolve around revisiting old and even ancient cooking techniques and ingredients to bring something once old to new diners' experiences."

Take a bite out of Tokyo's food scene from past and present on your own custom journey to this culinary paradise promising to excite your taste buds on every plate! >> https://bit.ly/3Nq6YMv

04/01/2025

Festivals and events around the world give great insight into a community and culture. While we live in an age of virtual events, you can't truly experience some things unless you're there. In this roundup, you'll find some of the most exclusive events and biggest festivals around the world. And one only happens every ten years. These are the festivals and events around the world that are worth traveling for.>> https://bit.ly/4c2POQZ

03/26/2025

This 16 day journey is FULL of incredible moments in ancient Egypt and Jordan. Here's some trip highlights:

🛍Visit Amman's busy markets and Roman ruins
🐪Enter the iconic city of Petra via a long, narrow gorge
⭐Linger over a delicious Bedouin dinner under the stars
🗺Discover the town of Madaba with Byzantine mosaics and the oldest preserved mosaic map of the Holy Lands
🗻Take in the breathtaking views from Mount Nebo once visited by Moses
🌊Float in the Dead Sea
🏛Visit The Grand Egyptian Museum including treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun
🔍Meet your private Egyptologist and set off on your tour to the Giza Plateau including the pyramids and the Sphinx
🕌Wander the 14the century Sultan Hassan Mosque, an iconic landmark situated in the heart of Cairo
🔨Embark on an unforgettable exploration journey to Karnak, a temple complex constructed over a 900-year period
👑Journey back into Egypt's history in the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut
⛵Sail to Edfu to visit the temple dedicated to Horus the Falcon God

Go on an epic adventure through history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes on your own customized trip to Egypt and Jordan. >> https://bit.ly/3XBCBY3

03/25/2025

This 16 day journey is PACKED with incredible moments in ancient Egypt and Jordan. Kick off the trip in Jordan where Petra's ancient wonders await. The carved rose-red cliffs are an inspiring glimpse into the past. Soak in the Dead Sea, before heading off to Egypt where you'll discover Giza's pyramids and Sphinx, setting the stage for an epic adventure through time.

Expert guides take you to the Valley of the Kings where you'll learn about Egypt's royal legacy. Sail down the Nile to historic sites and visit Abu Simbel where colossal statues tell stories of the past.

This journey through Jordan and Egypt is handcrafted to meet our traveler's dreams trip desires! Go on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes on your own customized trip to Egypt and Jordan.

03/20/2025

Ker & Downey's Product Manager Vanessa got to tickle her tastebuds in Tokyo. She shares her favorite meal from the trip Sukiyaki ASAI which is on track to get a Michelin star.⭐ "The courses are prepared at this counter in front of the guests, and the chefs are really talented."

Vanessa got to eat a teacup of steamed egg custard, prawns with cauliflower paste, turnips with yuzu citrus miso, beef served with seasonal veggies, wagyu with egg, grilled tofu, Shiitake mushrooms, and Japanese leak. To top off this meal, a ripe strawberry wrapped in azuki bean mochi.

Ready to take a delicious trip to Japan? 🍜Start planning a tasty journey now.
>> https://bit.ly/3Nq6YMv

03/20/2025

✨FOUR COUNTRIES, ONE TRIP✨
Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro and Albania

Experience unbound luxury on this two-week journey. Private jets and yacht charters allow you to optimize your time as you discover the hidden beauty of Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, while VIP experiences ensure a deeper discovery of these stunning destinations.

Some highlights include:

🏛Explore Ljubljana's charming streets on a full-day private guided tour, discovering the city's iconic attractions

🍷Taste seven Slovenian wines followed by a traditional seven-course dinner

🏔Glide along Lake Bled in a wooden Pletna boat with incredible Alps views

🍫Private chocolate tour of Radovlijca and sip on hot chocolate in the country's first chocolate factory

⛴Travel to Hvar by private yacht, spending time in the lavender fields, sampling local cheese, bread, and olive oils

🍽Meet a local family in Korčula for a slow food dinner

🚶🏽‍♂️Walk around Dubrovnik uncovering its flavors, history, and traditions.

🏰In Montenegro, tour Kotor's medieval Old Town-a UNESCO World Heritage Site

🌊Take in all the breathtaking coastal views in Budva

🛩Whisk off to Albania in a private jet where you'll spend an unforgettable evening dressed in traditional folk costumes and savor authentic regional dishes.

👑Explore Berat's cobblestone streets winding past Ottoman-style homes and visit the castle

🕌Visit King Mosque, a symbol of the city's diverse cultural heritage.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Montenegro, Slovenia, Albania, and Croatia—four hidden gems where stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures await. >> https://bit.ly/3W2wREv

03/16/2025

Planning a trip to destinations like Kenya, Thailand, and Mexico is an exciting adventure, and booking in advance ensures you get the most out of your travel experience.

Kenya (6 Months in Advance)

Planning your trip to Kenya six months in advance is crucial because some of the national parks like Maasai Mara and Amboseli have limited availability so you get more animals, less crowds. If you're hoping to travel in the peak season during the Great Migration, booking in advance is definitely a good idea. Early booking ensures you get the best lodges and guides.

Visa and Health Prep: Kenya may require a visa or health vaccinations. We can keep you in the known about all the latest requirements.

Thailand (3 Months in Advance)

Thailand is a popular destination with its stunning beaches, rich cultural history, and vibrant cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

Accommodation and Tours: Booking ahead secures the more luxurious properties. If you want to participate during Thai New Year (Songkran), booking in advance helps so you can get in on the watery fun when the locals take to the streets with water guns, buckets, and loads of water to splash each other in joyous battles.

Excursions and Activities: Thailand offers a wide range of activities, from island-hopping to temple visits, cooking classes, and elephant sanctuaries. We can get these special moments booked for you while avoiding the typical tourist traps.

Mexico (2 Months in Advance)

Mexico offers diverse attractions, from its rich cultural heritage and ancient ruins to its beautiful beaches and vibrant cities.

Accommodation and Flight Deals: Flights to Mexico are generally more affordable if booked in advance, and securing the prettiest properties in Oaxaca, Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende.

Festivals: If you want to be part of the color and traditions of Dia de Los Mu***os and Cinco de Mayo, then booking even more than two months in advance is necessary.

Tailored Experiences: Mexico has a variety of unique experiences, such as visiting cenotes, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or enjoying authentic culinary tours. We've got the insider info about the best places to eat and the most authentic sites to see to match your interests on a tailor journey.

Why It's Best to Plan with an Expert

By planning your trip to Kenya six months in advance, Thailand three months in advance, and Mexico two months in advance, you'll ensure that you get the best options available in terms of flights, accommodations, and tours. And working with an expert ensures that your trip is seamless, tailored, and truly unforgettable!

See our other 2025 destinations. >>

Pack your bags and prepare for a journey, as we present the top travel destinations for 2025. This year, we picked several emerging destinations that offer a unique and authentic experience different from the tourist hot spots. These hidden gems are just starting to shine on the travel radar. Enjoy...

03/12/2025

✨Welcome to the Czech Republic!✨

Ker & Downey clients have just booked a memorable journey to this European country. Here's what they'll be experiencing on a handcrafted journey:

🏰Discover the world's largest castle with a private guide, offering the best views of Prague.
🚶‍♂️Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge and explore Prague's charming Old Town.
⛏Travel in style to a 13th-century town famous for its historic silver mines.
🌲Immerse yourself in the Bohemian Paradise, a protected landscape full of magical castles and pine forests.
📖Dive into the history of WWII and hear poignant Holocaust stories in Terezín.
🌔Unwind at an Art Nouveau spa featuring a mineral hot spring.
👑Take a city tour of Český Krumlov, home to a Renaissance castle, picturesque streets, and scenic river bends.
🏔Hike Klet' Mountain through forests and meadows, leading to breathtaking panoramic views.
🚙Enjoy a scenic drive to a fairytale palace, complete with opulent rooms.

Discover the magic of the Czech Republic – where stunning architecture, rich history, charming medieval towns, and breathtaking landscapes come together to create an unforgettable trip. From exploring Prague's iconic castles to hiking through fairytale forests and enjoying world-class beer, this hidden gem promises a truly enriching experience for the curious traveler.

Take the pressure off vacation planning-visit https://bit.ly/3DqGrxL to arrange your own special trip to the Czech Republic.

03/12/2025

🏆Congratulations to FOUR of Ker & Downey's travel designers for being named as Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialists for 2025!⁠🏆
⁠
Ker & Downey's presence on the prestigious list has grown from one travel designer in 2024 to four designers in 2025! ✈️
⁠
Join us as we congratulate Catherine Brown, Mary-Jean Eraci, and Nicole Porto on their first year being recognized.⁠🎉👏
⁠
“What an honor to be in such good company on this list!” states Brown, Eraci, and Porto in a joint statement. “At Ker & Downey we are all passionate about our regions and love to share our love of travel with our clients to create truly unique and memorable experiences around the globe.”⁠
⁠
🌏Catherine Brown specializes in planning family trips specifically in Asia, the South Pacific, and parts of Europe. Some of her favorite countries to send clients to are Iceland, the Azores, and Greenland. ⁠
⁠
🌎Mary-Jean Eraci excels at creating itineraries based in Africa and the Middle East, Central and South America, and Europe, with particular emphasis on South Africa, Botswana, and Kenya.⁠
⁠
🌍Nicole Porto specializes in multicounty journeys around the world, though especially loves any opportunity to plan trips to Egypt, Türkiye, Malta, or any other Mediterranean destination. ⁠
⁠
Read their complete Condé Nast profiles in the bio link! 🎊
⁠

03/12/2025

✨Welcome to the Czech Republic!⁠✨
⁠
Ker & Downey clients have just booked a memorable journey to this European country. Here's what they'll be experiencing on a handcrafted journey:⁠
⁠
🏰Discover the world's largest castle with a private guide, offering the best views of Prague.⁠
⁠
🚶Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge and explore Prague's charming Old Town.⁠
⁠
⛏️Travel in style to a 13th-century town famous for its historic silver mines.⁠
⁠
🌲Immerse yourself in the Bohemian Paradise, a protected landscape full of magical castles and pine forests.⁠
⁠
📖Dive into the history of WWII and hear poignant Holocaust stories in Terezín.⁠
⁠
🛁Unwind at an Art Nouveau spa featuring a mineral hot spring.⁠
⁠
👑Take a city tour of Český Krumlov, home to a Renaissance castle, picturesque streets, and scenic river bends.⁠
⁠
🏔️Hike Klet' Mountain through forests and meadows, leading to breathtaking panoramic views.⁠
⁠
🚘Enjoy a scenic drive to a fairytale palace, complete with opulent rooms.⁠
⁠
Discover the magic of the Czech Republic – where stunning architecture, rich history, charming medieval towns, and breathtaking landscapes come together to create an unforgettable trip. From exploring Prague's iconic castles to hiking through fairytale forests and enjoying world-class beer, this hidden gem promises a truly enriching experience for the curious traveler.⁠
⁠
Take the pressure off vacation planning-visit kerdowney.com to arrange your own special trip to the Czech Republic!

03/12/2025

"We had a fantastic time on the trip! Love, love, love Australia. I kept asking myself why I had waited sooooo long to go! All of the guides were absolutely fantastic. Just terrific. The properties were lovely. I would not change a thing. Thank you for all your time and effort on keeping us rolling along. It was a great itinerary!"

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

So what are you waiting for? There's no better time than now to book a trip to Australia, a country bursting with natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. From the stunning Great Barrier Reef to the iconic Uluru, Australia's landscapes are unlike anything else in the world, offering everything from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to the rugged Outback.

And its unique wildlife, like kangaroos and koalas, can only be found here, making it a dream destination for animal lovers.

Australia also boasts a vibrant food and wine scene, with diverse culinary influences and world-class wines that will delight your taste buds. The country's cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, are cultural hubs filled with art, music, and entertainment, while outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy adventures like surfing, hiking, and snorkeling.

There's never a bad time to visit. The climate is perfect year-round, allowing you to experience everything Australia has to offer. Australia is ready and waiting for you to explore. So why wait? Australia's beauty and adventure are calling—book your trip now and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Visit https://bit.ly/3HRBeOJ to get all of your Australia travel details!

📷 ⁠

03/10/2025

Tokyo's calling your tastebuds! Ker & Downey's Vanessa traveled to Japan to try out a whole bunch of delicious food! One meal that delighted her was the plant-based lunch at FARO.

"My favorite dish was the strawberry chamomile vanilla dessert, but I also enjoyed the cabbage roll in the amuse bouche plate."

With expert guides, Vanessa got the best tastes and sights Tokyo has to offer! >> https://bit.ly/3Nq6YMv

03/08/2025

On this International Women's Day, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and empowerment of women around the world. ⁠
⁠
The Twala Cultural Manyatta, founded by Rosemary Nenini in the village of Il Poloi, Laikipia, Kenya, is a shining example of how women can come together to preserve their culture and heritage. It is a space where women are not only educated, but also empowered to build confidence, embrace their identity, and strengthen their communities. Here's to the women who inspire change and create lasting impact. >> https://bit.ly/3Ff7a0u

03/07/2025

With expert guides and a strong focus on conservation, Tanzania ensures an unforgettable and responsible safari adventure, offering an authentic, immersive journey through Africa's most pristine landscapes. Best of all when you plan a custom journey, we can arrange a few days for you to unwind on one of Zanzibar's blissful white sand beaches. What a way to end a trip of a lifetime! >> https://bit.ly/3TwvwEZ

03/07/2025

With expert guides and a strong focus on conservation, Tanzania ensures an unforgettable and responsible safari adventure, offering an authentic, immersive journey through Africa's most pristine landscapes. Best of all when you plan a custom journey, we can arrange a few days for you to unwind on one of Zanzibar's blissful white sand beaches. What a way to end a trip of a lifetime!
>> https://bit.ly/3TwvwEZ

03/04/2025

Celebrate World Wildlife Day by booking this 10-night Botswana adventure, experience a journey that showcases exclusive and authentic discoveries in tented paradise. From the Kalahari Desert to the Okavango Delta, there is no such thing as "roughing it" when the game abounds and the stars shine. >> https://bit.ly/3yTYdqk

03/04/2025

Celebrate World Wildlife Day by booking this 10-night Botswana adventure to experience a journey that showcases exclusive and authentic discoveries in tented paradise. From the Kalahari Desert to the Okavango Delta, there is no such thing as "roughing it" when the game abounds and the stars align under canvas.
>> https://bit.ly/3yTYdqk