Are you planning on spending this years tax return on travel? Well you’re not alone, as per a report from the travel app Hopper, over 50% of its users anticipate receiving refunds from the government, with 60% of them planning to utilize it for a trip this year. According to IRS data, the average tax refund through Feb. 23 has reached $3,213, marking a 4% increase from last year’s average refund at the same time.

Below are 12 unique vacation recommendations to help you maximize your refund.

1. Turkish Archaeology + Culinary Cruise: Embark on a captivating journey along Turkey’s southwest coast with a new gulet cruise offered by Peter Sommer Travels. Delve into the archaeology, culture, and cuisine of the region on the Turkish Odyssey cruise, where you’ll explore ancient cities, awe-inspiring tombs, vibrant markets, and traditional carpet-making workshops. Indulge in the flavors of locally produced wine, honey, olive oil, and more as you traverse picturesque villages along the way. Travel aboard a meticulously crafted gulet, allowing plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or unwinding on deck.
2. Cowboy Glamping Retreat: Ranchlands is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the 80,000-acre Paintrock Canyon Ranch nestled in the breathtaking Bighorn Mountains of northern Wyoming. Guests are invited to fully immerse themselves in the ranch life experience, exploring the rugged terrain on horseback, indulging in fly fishing adventures, scenic hikes, and embracing the wonders of the natural world in this unparalleled landscape. Accommodations are thoughtfully designed to bring guests as close to nature as possible while providing all the comforts of home. Stylishly furnished, spacious safari-style tents feature full-sized beds, bedside tables, dressers, and chairs. Meals, expertly crafted by a private chef, showcase Ranchlands beef, locally sourced produce, and dairy, creating a culinary experience that celebrates the essence of the region.
3. Darwin Adventure to Galapagos + Amazon: Commencing at the Scalesia Galapagos Lodge nestled in the highlands of Isabela, travelers embark on an enriching journey through some of the Galapagos Islands’ most captivating sites, such as the Giant Tortoise Reserve and Charles Darwin Research Station. Subsequently, guests venture into Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest, basing their explorations from the luxurious Sacha Lodge. Expertly guided tours lead visitors deep into the jungle, where they encounter vibrant birdlife, intriguing reptiles, diverse monkey species, and an abundance of other fascinating wildlife.
4. Yellowstone White Water Adventure: In search of thrilling Yellowstone whitewater rafting experiences amidst stunning scenery and top-notch Montana river guides? Look no further. Whether you opt for a half-day adrenaline rush, a full-day expedition, a serene scenic float, or an unforgettable overnight journey, Flying Pig Adventures has you covered. Our seasoned river experts guarantee safe and enjoyable rafting adventures tailored to all ages and skill levels.
5. Exploring National Parks by RV: Blackford introduces its latest fleet of luxury RVs and campervans, meticulously maintained and with low mileage to guarantee a secure and hassle-free journey. Enjoy flexible pickup and drop-off schedules along with all the essential amenities for an unforgettable national park adventure. Count on our dedicated support team for a seamless rental experience. Plus, benefit from AdventureGenie, the most user-friendly and efficient AI-powered RV trip planner available, ensuring your travel plans are effortlessly organized.
6. Red Rock Canyon Single Track Adventure: In-the-know locals are aware that the Red Rock National Conservation Area boasts 100 miles of picturesque singletrack trails, offering breathtaking desert vistas. This hidden gem provides a refreshing escape, far from the smoke-filled casino floors. With trails that are exceptionally forgiving and expertly groomed, it’s an ideal destination for newcomers to the exhilarating sport of mountain biking.
7. Arizona High-Desert Ranch Retreat: Experience the allure of Southwestern charm and classic dude ranch activities at Rancho de la Osa, nestled in the high-desert grasslands of Arizona. The ranch boasts historic significance, with the longest continually operated building in the state, constructed in 1722 by Jesuit missionaries, now serving as the ranch’s cantina, alongside a Spanish-style hacienda. Spend your days engaging in horseback riding, hiking, archery, shooting, and more, then retire for the night in accommodations once graced by notable figures such as John Wayne, Joan Crawford, President Lyndon B. Johnson, and Lady Bird Johnson.
8. Extended River Cruise Through Europe: Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe to the Black Sea with Riviera River Cruises’ latest 29-day itinerary along the Rhine and Danube rivers. Spanning from Germany to Romania, this expedition includes 28 immersive visits and tours. Explore enchanting capital cities, picturesque riverside towns, the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, and the mesmerizing Iron Gates Gorge. Discover natural wonders such as the Belogradchik Rocks and Mesolithic Lepenski Vir, and marvel at the UNESCO-listed Danube Delta wetlands, among other highlights along the way.
9. Arctic Glamping Under the Aurora: Embark on an adventure to discover the untouched beauty of the Canadian Arctic and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Inuit community with Adventure Life’s latest tour. Settle into unique domed accommodations at a camp in northern Quebec and witness the immense tidal currents of Ungava Bay. Explore the Gyrfalcon Islands, marvel at the mesmerizing aurora borealis, and encounter a variety of wildlife including polar bears, muskoxen, caribou, seals, and whales. Enjoy exhilarating fat-bike rides, ATV tours, and boat excursions led by experienced Inuk guides, offering an authentic and unforgettable Arctic experience.
10. Alpine Adventure + Tradition: Discover the enchanting allure of Europe’s legendary mountain range by exploring the classic resorts featured in the esteemed Best of the Alps collection. From the picturesque Megève and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc in France to the scenic Crans-Montana and Davos Klosters in Switzerland, and the charming Courmayeur and Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy, each destination promises outdoor adventures, rich traditions, and culinary delights. Venture further to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany, and Lech Zürs am Arlberg, St. Anton am Arlberg, and Kitzbühel in Austria, where unforgettable experiences await amidst breathtaking landscapes.
11. Piedmont Culinary Cycling Tour: Tourissimo is excited to be introducing a brand-new seven-day culinary cycling tour showcasing the renowned Piedmont wine region in Italy. Celebrated for its exquisite truffles and exceptional wines, Piedmont is hailed as a haven for gourmands, with many considering it the pinnacle of Italian cuisine. Joining guests on this journey is the esteemed James Beard Award-winning Chef Jody Adams, who will cycle alongside participants and offer invaluable insights into the local produce and traditional preparations that authentically capture the essence of the region.
12. Big Sky Adventures: Located in Big Sky, Montana, The Wilson Hotel serves as the ultimate basecamp for adventure, catering to both winter and summer enthusiasts alike. Whether it’s skiing and snowboarding on the vast 5,850 acres of terrain at Big Sky Resort, exploring the natural wonders and wildlife of Yellowstone, embarking on thrilling rafting and fly fishing excursions on the Gallatin River, or experiencing the adrenaline rush of lift-served mountain biking, guests are guaranteed an exhilarating experience. After a day of outdoor pursuits, return to The Wilson, conveniently situated in Big Sky Town Center, offering sophisticated accommodations just steps away from dining, entertainment, and more.