What Travel Is About

July 30, 2025

(Hint: It’s Not Just the Destination)


For many of us, travel used to be about checking off a list: taking a photo in front of the Eiffel Tower, walking briefly through a cathedral, or hopping on a bus. All just a blur of experiences. 


However, at Excite Experiences, we believe travel is something much deeper. It’s not just about the destinations; it’s about how you feel while you’re there. It’s the slow sip of wine in a sun-dappled vineyard, the shared laughter with someone you’ve just met but feel you’ve known forever. It’s that moment when you realize: I’m not just on a trip; I’m living a chapter of my life that I chose for myself.




Tavel is about connection.

Connection to the people around you. The warm conversation over dinner, the inside jokes that start on day two of the journey, the friendly guide who remembers your name.


Connection to yourself. The rediscovery of your adventurous side, the sense of purpose that comes from trying something new, the quiet moment of reflection, watching the sun set over a city you never thought you’d see.


Connection to culture. When you learn from locals, eat what they eat, listen to their stories, and realize how much you still want to know about the world.


At its heart, travel isn’t about getting away. It’s about coming home to who you are.




Travel is also about comfort, and we’re not just taking about fluffy pillows.

It’s the comfort of knowing everything has been planned for you, so you can simply show up and be present. The comfort of traveling with people who understand you, who also appreciate a relaxed pace, a midday break, and a thoughtful touch.


It’s about feeling safe, supported, and free to be fully in the moment. That’s why we build rest into every itinerary, choose partners who care deeply about service, and make sure that every traveler, solo or paired, fully mobile or seeking a bit more ease, is seen, heard, and included.




Travel is about doing something for you without guilt.

So many of our travelers spent years putting others first: careers, kids, caregiving. Now, it's your turn. Your joy. Your spark. Your story. That’s why we don’t do “power through” travel. We do “feel every moment” travel.


Because the point isn’t to race through a list, it’s to live something real.




So… what’s travel really about?

It’s not the passport stamp. It’s what changes in you after the trip. It’s the new friends. The new perspective. The new energy.

It’s the smile you bring home.


Let's embark on this journey together and share the excitement.



New Tours
By Anna Fiala September 24, 2025
Discover Excite’s exciting new 2026 tours from guided tours across Scandinavia and Iceland to unforgettable excursions in Africa, Route 66, Texas Wine Country, and beyond. Book early for exclusive savings.
By Keegan Shuck August 29, 2025
The Countdown Has Begun In just a few short weeks, we’ll be welcoming our travel community back in person for one of the most exciting events of the year, our 2026 Tour Launch Parties! As we prepare to unveil our 2026 tours, we’re inviting you to be part of something more than just a catalog release. This is your chance to experience the joy of travel, the warmth of our community, and the spark of inspiration, all in person, right in your own city. And with less than three weeks to go , now is the time to secure your spot. What You’ll Experience At each Launch Party, you’ll be welcomed into a relaxed, friendly space where you can: Browse the whole 2026 tour lineup - including brand-new itineraries and returning favorites Ask questions and hear insights from our team and tour designers Connect with fellow travelers - whether you're a regular or considering your very first trip Enjoy light refreshments, warm conversation, and a few joyful surprises And if you're ready to book, there's one more reason to attend in person: Book at the Party and Save Attendees who book any 3-day or longer tour at the party will receive $100 off per person , an exclusive thank-you for sharing the excitement with us in person. It’s our way of saying: we’re glad you're here, and even more excited to travel with you in 2026. Why These Events Matter Many of our travelers tell us the Tour Party is when it all feels real. It’s where the idea of “someday” turns into “this year.” Whether you’re curious about your first trip, planning your next, or simply want to reconnect with people who share your love of travel, this is your moment. If you’re traveling solo, this is a welcoming place to meet fellow guests. If you travel as a pair, it’s a perfect way to plan and dream together. Either way, you’ll leave with something more than a catalog; you’ll leave with new inspiration. Just a Few Weeks Left, Reserve Your Spot Today Our 2026 Tour Launch Parties begin in just three weeks, and space is filling quickly. This is your chance to: Preview the full tour lineup before the general release Take advantage of exclusive event-only offers Be part of the conversation and community that makes Excite so special The Journey Starts Here The 2026 catalog is filled with new places to discover and favorite destinations you’ll want to revisit. But the best part of it all? Sharing the journey, and it starts right here. We can’t wait to welcome you. Visit our Tour Launch Party page today to view all event locations, times, and RSVP details.
A group of people are riding a raft in front of a large cruise ship.
By Anna Fiala June 22, 2025
Introduction: Why Antarctica Should Be Your Next Adventure  Few places on Earth remain as untouched, mysterious, and awe-inspiring as Antarctica. Home to majestic icebergs, colonies of curious penguins, and pristine polar landscapes, it offers an experience unlike any other. Our February 2027 Antarctica expedition, in partnership with Atlas Ocean Voyages, promises an all-inclusive, luxurious, and immersive journey to the southernmost continent, a true bucket list adventure for those seeking something extraordinary. Excite is proud to be the only travel company in the Midwest offering this unique tour, ensuring you have an unparalleled opportunity to explore this breathtaking destination.