New Zealand is known for its dramatic landscapes, but for Winnie, the impact came less from a single postcard moment and more from a steady accumulation of beauty. After the first couple of days, it felt as though everywhere she looked—mountains, valleys, coastline—invited her to stop and simply take it all in. There is very […]
Crossing the International Date Line meant Winnie quite literally skipped a day—going to bed Friday night and waking up Sunday morning. It felt like an appropriately surreal beginning to a milestone birthday spent in the middle of the South Pacific, surrounded by turquoise water, new friends and the easy rhythm of life at sea. Cook […]
As Winnie’s journey continued south, the days began to feel less like individual snapshots and more like a continuous story—one shaped by history, culture, and the steady rhythm of life at sea. This leg of the voyage carried her through the Panama Canal and into Central America, offering perspective rather than high-energy excitement. Through the […]
Celebrating the holidays on a ship halfway around the world is, unsurprisingly, very different from celebrating at home. For Winnie, Christmas aboard Viking Sky was quieter, simpler, and shaped by the rhythm of her ship life routine of early mornings, excursions, and plenty of fresh air. First Impressions at Sea Winnie’s earliest impression of life […]
At 91 years old, Winnie McClennen made a decision that many people never do – at any age. After a year of profound change, she chose to begin again. In the past twelve months, Winnie lost her husband unexpectedly after a fall. She sold her home. She moved. And somewhere between grief, exhaustion, and closing […]
San Miguel de Allende is a city that pulses with color, creativity, and community — and that’s exactly what Onward Travel guests get to experience during our weeklong journey there. Our itinerary is full of art, food, and history, but more than anything, it’s about meeting the remarkable people who make this city so vibrant. […]
An incredibly special Onward Travel group will set off for Provence next summer. The trip is already sold out, but the story behind it is worth sharing because this is more than just another culinary adventure in France. It’s a reunion, a homecoming, and a continuation of a travel tradition spanning more than three decades. […]
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 […]
Onward, traveler. Pack your bags, spin your globe, prepare to explore. Learn about a place, enhance your craft, live what you love.
Get in on the fun! Join Onward’s email list to be in-the-know when future tours are announced. Join us for group tours, reimagined. Photo by traveler Rich Evenhouse