Passage Journeys Debuts Inaugural Collection

Provence (Passage Journeys)

(Press Release) CHICAGO, IL (July 1, 2026) — Passage Journeys today launched reservations for its inaugural collection of small-group journeys departing in 2027, introducing a new premium travel brand built around the idea that the most meaningful travel experiences begin with perspective. Developed in collaboration with acclaimed authors, historians, travel writers, chefs and other leading cultural voices, each journey is designed to reveal the stories, traditions and human experiences that bring a place to life.
 
Created for culturally curious travelers seeking greater understanding, connection and discovery, Passage Journeys combines expert-led storytelling, immersive cultural experiences and seamless travel design to create journeys that extend beyond traditional sightseeing. The inaugural collection features departures to Japan, Bhutan and Italy, among other destinations, with each itinerary shaped in partnership with a recognized authority whose expertise provides unique context and insight throughout the experience.

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Kristen Dennison

The newest brand within the Certares Management LLC family of travel-focused companies, Passage Journeys arrives as demand continues to grow for smaller, more intentional travel experiences that emphasize cultural engagement, personal enrichment and authentic connection. With approximately 24 guests per departure, the journeys foster meaningful conversation, shared discovery and a deeper appreciation for the history, culture and people that define a destination.
 
“Travelers today have access to virtually every destination on earth, yet many are searching for something more meaningful from their experiences," said Kristen Cash Dennison, General Manager of Passage Journeys. “Passage Journeys was created in response to that shift. Our journeys are curated alongside renowned cultural authorities whose lifelong relationship with a destination brings an entirely different dimension to the experience. It's one thing to visit a destination; it's another to explore it through the lens of someone who has spent decades interpreting its stories, traditions and complexities. That depth of insight often becomes the most memorable and transformative part of the journey.”
 
INAUGURAL 2027 JOURNEYS
 
The Pursuit of Happiness in Bhutan by Eric Weiner
Duration: 13 Days
Travel Date Departures:   Oct.  1,  11,  15 and 25
The “Pursuit of Happiness: Bhutan” journey curated with author Eric Weiner is an immersive travel experience designed to explore Bhutan’s unique philosophy of happiness and mindful living, moving beyond typical tourism to emphasize reflection, presence, and cultural understanding. Inspired by Weiner’s work on global happiness, the trip focuses on engaging deeply with Bhutanese daily life—its unhurried pace, strong spiritual traditions, and connection between people, landscape, and heritage—through experiences such as visiting monasteries, interacting with locals, and taking in the Himalayan environment.
 
The Soul of Japan - Living Like a Local by Pico Iyer
Duration:  13 Days
Travel Departure Dates: March 29 , Oct.  28, Nov.  4 and 11
Internationally acclaimed essayist, novelist and one of the world's most respected voices on travel, culture and spirituality, Pico Iyer has spent more than four decades exploring the intersections of place, identity and belonging. A longtime resident of Japan and author of numerous acclaimed works including The Lady and the Monk and Autumn Light, Iyer offers travelers a uniquely personal lens through which to experience the country. This thoughtfully paced journey explores Japan beyond its iconic imagery, revealing the cultural, spiritual and philosophical traditions that shape everyday life. Through immersive experiences and Iyer's insights, guests gain a deeper appreciation for the country's enduring beauty, craftsmanship, rituals and sense of place.
 
History and Heroes of Normandy by David Eisenhower
Duration: 9 Days
Travel Date Departures: July 3 and Aug.  21
Historian, author and educator David Eisenhower brings a uniquely personal perspective to World War II history as the grandson of General and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Allied Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force. A distinguished scholar and author of the Pulitzer Prize-finalist Eisenhower at War, 1943-1945, he offers unparalleled insight into one of history's most consequential periods. Centered in Normandy, this immersive journey explores the events, decisions and human stories surrounding D-Day and the Allied liberation of Europe. Through visits to key battlefields, memorials and historic sites, travelers gain a deeper understanding of leadership, sacrifice and the enduring legacy of World War II.
 
The Living Provence by Joseph Rosendo
Duration: 9 Days
Travel Date Departures: April 6,  August 24, 31, Sept. 21 and 28
 The “Living Provence” journey curated by travel expert Joseph Rosendo is a culturally immersive trip through France’s Provence region designed to go beyond typical sightseeing and foster a deep, personal connection with the destination. It emphasizes authentic experiences—such as exploring historic towns like Aix-en-Provence and Arles, engaging with local traditions, enjoying Provençal cuisine, and discovering landscapes of vineyards, markets, and Mediterranean coastlines—while encouraging meaningful interactions with the people and everyday life of the region. Drawing on Rosendo’s decades of storytelling and passion for France, the itinerary is intentionally crafted to help travelers experience the “heart and soul” of Provence and return home with lasting memories and a sense of its relaxed, joyful way of life.
 
Florence at the Table by Carla Capalbo
Duration: 9 days
Travel Date Departures: March 5, Oct. 22,  Nov. 26, Dec. 3
Award-winning writer, photographer and author Carla Capalbo is widely regarded as one of the leading authorities on Italian food, wine and regional culture. Having spent more than three decades documenting Italy's culinary traditions and cultural landscapes, she brings an insider's perspective to the country's rich heritage. This immersive exploration reveals Italy through one of its most powerful cultural expressions: food. Travelers encounter the people, traditions and regional influences that define Italian cuisine while gaining deeper insight into the connections among food, history, craftsmanship, family and community.
 
Every Passage Journeys experience is guided by the company's five foundational pillars—Pleasure, Ease, Meaning, Connection and Embrace—ensuring that intellectual enrichment is balanced with comfort, enjoyment and authentic cultural engagement.
 
Reservations are now open for all 2027 departures. For more information or to reserve a journey, visit www.PassageJourneys.com,  call 1-877-572-5160, e-mail [email protected] or contact your travel advisor. 

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