At Onward Travel, we believe that meaningful connections, immersive experiences, and a deep appreciation for place are what make travel truly special. Our small group adventures are designed around those values, and no one embodies this spirit quite like Barbara Bandinelli – our beloved tour director and Florence native. This September, Barbara will lead our […]
At Onward Travel, we’re a small family business – and we believe in the power of supporting other small family businesses wherever we go. From the bustling food markets of Tuscany to the quiet fjordside bakeries in Norway, we seek out local artisans, farmers, winemakers, and chefs whose passion and hospitality shape the places they […]
Travel to Europe this holiday season for a Christmastime adventure filled with charming markets, festive décor, and the warmth of mulled wine! Onward Travel is excited to host a new European Christmas market tour from November 30 to December 7, 2025, taking travelers to the magical markets of Prague, Brno, and Vienna. Tour leader Katerina […]
We are so excited to bring a new destination to our travelers this year: Crete, the island with everything! Both weeks of this tour booked quickly directly from our interest lists (which is why it’s important to join those), but we want to introduce you to the local who will be leading our travelers through […]
While summer in most European countries often means crowds and sweltering heat, Norway offers a refreshing escape with its cool temperatures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant outdoor culture. Our Fjordlands Immersion tour in July 2025 is the perfect way to experience Norway at its best – lush, scenic, and full of life! The height of the […]
Our Cook Like a Tuscan tour in partnership with The Chopping Block, Chicago’s premiere recreational cooking school, is now in its seventh year. It is designed for people who love to cook and want to experience learning about the simple yet delicious cuisine and ingredients of central Italy, specifically Tuscany. This tour appeals to avid […]
We are celebrating our 10th anniversary here at Onward Travel this year, and that means we are also celebrating ten years of partnering with Chef Jenna Arcidiacono of Amore Trattoria Italiana in Comstock Park, Michigan. Jenna was one of the first partners we worked with to plan a trip, and we are still doing tours with […]
Food plays a crucial role in travel because it offers a sensory connection to a place’s culture, history, and traditions. When people travel, they seek authentic experiences, and local cuisine provides a direct way to engage with a destination’s lifestyle and identity. Sharing meals leads to meaningful interactions, and trying regional dishes introduces travelers to […]
As you may know, Onward Travel is celebrating our tenth anniversary this year. But you may not know that we traveled in small groups long before this company launched! Molly and Kat’s grandmother, Winnie, and mother Peggi, owned a cooking school in Sellersville, Pennsylvania called The Cooking Cottage for 25 years. It is there where […]
In 1662, the first apples were picked in South Africa when the Dutch East India Company – the world’s first multinational company – founded the Cape of Good Hope as a refreshment outpost for passing ships. Fast forward to present day, South Africa is a major fresh fruit exporter with a dynamic industry. This winter, […]
Onward, traveler. Pack your bags, spin your globe, prepare to explore. Learn about a place, enhance your craft, live what you love.
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Photo by traveler Rich Evenhouse
