Announce Date: January 22, 2015

National Geographic Society Launches Private Expeditions in Partnership with Virtuoso

Trips for Independent Travelers Include Stays at New National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World

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(January 2015) The National Geographic Society announced this month the launch of National Geographic Private Expeditions, a new line of trips geared toward independent travelers, offered in partnership with Virtuoso, the leading international network of luxury-focused travel agencies and advisors.

Private Expeditions are unique itineraries to destinations all over the world that are specially designed for those who seek the flexibility to travel when and with whom they wish. Travelers explore independently while enjoying the benefits of traveling with National Geographic: top local guides, access to sites and experiences, built-in free time to explore and excellent accommodations. Travelers simply select a Private Expedition, choose their travel dates and any number of traveling companions and leave the legwork to National Geographic Expeditions and Virtuoso.

With a lineup of 13 Private Expeditions at launch and more on the way, travelers can choose from a range of trips geared toward a wide spectrum of interests. Culture enthusiasts can venture into Buddhist temples and ancient fortresses in Bhutan, and join monks and nuns for prayer ceremonies. Adventure seekers can hike or ride horseback along the dramatic coasts of South Africas Western Cape before heading out on safari in Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park. Throughout each trip, travelers are treated to local perspectives and meaningful cultural experiences, such as examining dinosaur fossils with a paleontologist in Mongolia or sitting down to mint tea with a rural family in Morocco.

Many Private Expeditions feature National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, a new collection of world-class, sustainable hotels that were also announced today by the National Geographic Society. Spread across six continents, the lodges are linked by their dedication to providing an outstanding guest experience while celebrating the cultural and natural heritage of their region and embracing sustainable tourism practices.

Virtuoso comprises over 355 agencies with more than 8,900 elite travel specialists in 25 countries throughout North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia-Pacific and Europe. As part of the partnership, Virtuoso has enlisted 20 top travel advisors to form a team of National Geographic specialists dedicated to managing Private Expeditions bookings. These specialists can also offer additional assistance with obtaining visas and arranging air travel.

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National Geographic Society Launches Private Expeditions in Partnership with Virtuoso