The Baltic Crescent

Scandinavia + The Baltic States

Anytime you want!

The Baltic Crescent

Scandinavia + The Baltic States

Anytime you want!

The Baltic Crescent

Scandinavia + The Baltic States

Anytime you want!

Copenhagen, Denmark

Oslo, Norway

Stockholm, Sweden

Helsinki, Finland

Tallinn, Estonia

Riga, Latvia

Vilnius, Lithuania

We invite you to repeat our successful Summer 2015 and Autumn 2017 trips to the Baltic Crescent!

 

 Week 1: Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland

Kick off the adventure in the canals of Copenhagen, Denmark, one of Europe’s oldest capitals and edgiest cities. After crossing the North Sea, we’ll traverse the modern Viking city of Oslo, Norway, before taking a boat ride to one of the country’s grand fjords. Amble along the colorful buildings and shimmering waters of Stockholm, Sweden, before delving into the world-famous subterranean art of the city’s metro. Finally, imagine living among hobbits in Suomenlinna, an ancient sea fortress that looks like it came straight out of The Shire from “The Lord of the Rings.” 

 Week 2: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania

Cross the Gulf of Finland and seek the road less traveled in three incredible UNESCO World Heritage towns. Lose yourself in the medieval capital of Tallinn, Estonia. Marvel at the unique art-nouveau architecture of Riga, Latvia. Feel your spine tingle when you stumble upon the eerie Hill of Crosses by Siauliai, Lithuania. Watch the world by on a midsummer evening in Vilnius. Then its off to the moated castle of Trakai before we say our good-byes back in Vilnius. 

Destination Arrival
1 Copenhagen, Denmark August 8, 2015
2 Helsingør, Denmark August 9, 2015
3 North Sea, August 10, 2015
4 Oslo, Norway August 11, 2015
5 Stockholm, Sweden August 12, 2015
6 Baltic Sea, August 16, 2015
7 Helsinki, Finland August 17, 2015
8 Gulf of Finland, August 17, 2015
9 Tallinn, Estonia August 18, 2015
10 Ainazi, Latvia August 19, 2015
11 Riga, Latvia August 20, 2015
12 Siauliai, Lithuania August 21, 2015
13 Vilnius, Lithuania August 22, 2015
14 Trakai, Lithuania August 23, 2015
15 Minsk, Belarus August 24, 2015
Remarks from previous trips: “Calvin, just wanted to say thank you so much for another amazing trip. I just read your latest post, it’s beautiful. I’m thankful to be part of these experiences with you and really appreciate all that you do. Mad love bro.” – Alice Tsui

“Went on my second trip with the Monsoon Diaries (first being the Route 66 Road Trip) to Scandinavia and came back with so many awesome memories and friendships that will undoubtedly last a lifetime. This was a part of Europe that I may not have otherwise visited and I’m glad I got to experience the culture, food, and sights of these amazing countries. Definitely looking forward to future trips with The Monsoon Diaries!” – Kel Sage

“Holy shit! That about sums it up….just wanted to spell it out on behalf of me and Joyce: awesome job. Calvin for being the cool big bro I’ve always wanted and Jen for being a caring big sis (because the world could always use more of those!)–also note I avoided any mom/dad denominations.

Traveling may be a hobby but what you two do is truly a public service. Keep it up (gig) and hope to see you around NY.” – Joshua Zhang

“I’m home I’m safe I’m happy I’m sick like a dog but I had a BLAST. Thanks Monsoon [Diaries] for taking me out my comfort zone.” – Ms. Duncan

“It was great to meet everyone, thank you so much for making this trip incredible! Of course, biggest thanks to Jenn and Calvin for putting this together and making it all possible! Keep in touch everyone and see you in NYC soon for a reunion!” – Joyce Zhang

“Thanks [The Monsoon Diaries and Map&Move] for everything during this insane, hilarious, awesome and memorable trip.” – Ambrose Chu

“I will miss you folks. Thank you so much for your kindness and making me immediately feel like a part of the framily. I hope we keep in touch and wish you all safe and wonderful continued travels. Looking forward to sharing photos and more. . . . The thanks are to you and Jenn for all you have and continue to do with leading us.” – Nadi Kaonga

“Echoing the same sentiments as everyone else here. Thank you so much for such a fun week. I’m super glad to have met all of you and let’s definitely hang out / keep in touch!” – Christina Ren

“So awesome to meet everyone!  Definitely looking forward to a reunion.” – Kel Sage

“It was great meeting all of you guys. Thanks for the wonderful memories. Expecting a lot of great pics during the week.” – Eric Huynh

“Thank you both so much for organizing the Scandinavia trip! I really appreciate all of your hard work and effort…Enjoy the rest of your trip and again, thank you! 😘 Katy” – Katy Budge

This is a trip that was planned and led by The Monsoon Diaries in 2015 and 2017. Crediting to that trip’s enormous success, we are happy to sponsor this as a recurring trip whenever you choose to go. Depending on the timing of the trip, there may or may not be an MD staff present as a guide, but there should not be a limiting factor for the trip.

Click here for full list of reviews.

“So this review is long overdue. I met Calvin as a resident in the ER in the Bronx. He actually helped me book a flight for a trip that was completely unrelated to his- and that’s how I found out about The Monsoon Diaries.

My trip with him was coming off the back end of yacht week in Croatia (craziness)- I was exhausted and over alcohol and traveling in general, but the energy of the group, the diversity of the personalities and the sheer enthusiasm everyone had for this adventure was contagious! Was this a vacation? No. It was a trip, a balls to the wall, minimal sleep, overnight busses and ferries, hostel bunk beds, walking and walking and walking and exploring trip.

And it was AMAZING! Late night karaoke (I was momentarily famous and that is something I will never forget and a tale for another time) dance offs, getting lost, arguing with racist bus drivers, laughing until crying, piggy back rides, deep late night conversations, and early morning goofy ones, coffee coffee coffee, and just seeing so much in such a short time. I felt that the people on the trip are some of the best, most genuinely curious of the world we live in, and most appreciative humans I have ever met. I get all the feels, the warm and fuzzies in my chest, when I think of the memories made. Everyone wants to travel, see the world, its the “in” thing to do now… oh how I roll my eyes when people ask how many countries I’ve been to. It’s not where you’ve been it’s how, and with whom. It’s the human connections we make in this world and not the continents we stand on. If you want both… monsoon all the way.” – Shannon Murphy

“I found this travel blog after putting “Iran visa US passport” in the Google search bar, and clicked the “Images” tab back in 2013 (yes, I’m serious). After exchanging emails with the writer/Emergency room doctor/bartender/social justice advocate, Calvin, I visited New York and actually met him to see what kind of person he is. He seemed to be a really cool guy who knows a lot of people. After a chat over some hookah and a stroll, here’s what happened since meeting him:

  • Traveled to the Nordic Countries of Europe with 20+ people… within 1 week. Major highlights included venturing in Vaxholm and finding hope in Helsinki. It was an insane, hilarious, awesome and memorable trip.
  • Explored and partied through Cambodia and Vietnam with 3 really funny and cool people, on a trip organized by him and led by his friend, Dave (who I met in Copenhagen)… within 1 week. It was another insane, hilarious, awesome and memorable trip.
    Wrote 2 posts on his blog about my travel experiences in Europe and Asia. 
  • Moved to New York City. 
  • Did a whirlwind visit of South Africa, Victoria Falls, and Northern Botswana with 10+ people, played a (very minor) role in a serendipitous moment in Cape Town, and made some new friends. This was all within 1 week. 
  • Went to Edinburgh with 3 people, climbed 3 giant hills with amazing views… just for a weekend.

Thinking back, I never thought these events would happen, but some of the most important lessons I learned are to keep venturing out of your comfort zone and it’s really possible to travel with a very limited number of vacation days.

I still use the blog as a supplemental tool to figure out my itineraries for more solo trips, and it was very helpful, whether the destination is from Austin to Amsterdam, New York to New Delhi, or Seoul to Singapore. From those trips, I learned so much more about myself.

The Monsoon Diaries may just be a blog when you first discover it, but once you meet the writer, travel with him for at least a few days outside your home in a different country with a different culture, and return home, it’s so much more than that. You also become part of a broader circle of connections, and some of those connections could become your friends that might help you in some ways. You don’t just learn about how to travel, you might learn about yourself. You might lose a lot of money in the process, but from what I experienced, these memories and experiences I gained are worth so much more than money.

Yeah, that’s worth a 5-Star rating.

Thanks Calvin.” – Ambrose Chu

“I first met Calvin through working together on the ECAASU board. Through my friends, I also heard about the epic adventures of Monsoon Diaries (on a budget!) and when the Route 66 road trip across American opportunity came up, I had to take it. With two of my fellow teachers and a truly diverse group of travelers, RV-ing across America was an amazing experience filled with new sights, laughter, and bonding in a way I never knew was possible. That trip changed my life and forced me to consider new thoughts, feelings, and perspectives.

A couple months afterwards, I traveled with Monsoon Diaries to Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus with over 20+ people (with 1/3 being some of my closest friends I convinced to take this whirlwind trip with me). Taking in local cultures and foods, having instagrammable photo shoots, and learning to live life in the moment was unforgettable. I often reminisce these trips I took and I am truly grateful for Calvin for not only organizing these trips but continuing to bring together people from around the world to create new experiences for those who may need it the most. And for those of you who may be in doubt, just do it.” – Alice Tsui

“Through Calvin and the Monsoon Diaries, my travel bug has definitely crept out! What started as an unforgettable cross country trip down Route 66 led to exploring the amazing countries of Scandinavia and then a once in a lifetime venture to 11 countries in Africa!

One of the coolest parts of Calvin’s trips is that you’ll discover places you’d never thought you’d be, and meet some dope friends along the way. Every trip with Monsoon will push you out of your comfort zone and into a new adventure. Backpacking has never been this awesome!” – Kel Sage

“Happy Lunar New Year! Aside from the usual family, friends, health and wealth that I’m grateful for, I’m also thankful to YPT and The Monsoon Diaries for helping me discover the world and decide to become a “nomad expat” 3 years ago! I’ve been on 4 trips already and even led a group in Southeast Asia, can’t wait for the next one.

The time has really flown by and even though it’s not always as awesome as IG implies, the journey has been unforgettable… but my memory sucks so I’m thankful that I have all of you to remind me!” – Dave Zhou

“I traveled on my first Monsoon trip a few years back to Scandinavia with a friend and it was truly an unforgettable experience. The trip was very well organized and really pushes you out of your comfort zone. Calvin went out of his way to make sure everyone was comfortable and a part of the group. It was a great time meeting and traveling with a group of new people, some of whom I still keep in touch with today. I would definitely highly recommend doing a Monsoon trip especially to anyone new to traveling or traveling alone.” – Eric Huynh

“Calvin and the Monsoon Diaries team craft comprehensive, relevant, and budget-friendly experiences. And the people you meet on the trips are amazing!” – Joyce Zhang

“Calvin, just wanted to say thank you so much for another amazing trip. I just read your latest post, it’s beautiful. I’m thankful to be part of these experiences with you and really appreciate all that you do. Mad love bro.” – Alice Tsui

“Went on my second trip with the Monsoon Diaries (first being the Route 66 Road Trip) to Scandinavia and came back with so many awesome memories and friendships that will undoubtedly last a lifetime. This was a part of Europe that I may not have otherwise visited and I’m glad I got to experience the culture, food, and sights of these amazing countries. Definitely looking forward to future trips with The Monsoon Diaries!” – Kel Sage

“Holy shit! That about sums it up….just wanted to spell it out on behalf of me and Joyce: awesome job. Calvin for being the cool big bro I’ve always wanted and Jen for being a caring big sis (because the world could always use more of those!)–also note I avoided any mom/dad denominations.

Traveling may be a hobby but what you two do is truly a public service. Keep it up (gig) and hope to see you around NY.” – Joshua Zhang

“I’m home I’m safe I’m happy I’m sick like a dog but I had a BLAST. Thanks Monsoon [Diaries] for taking me out my comfort zone.” – Ms. Duncan

“It was great to meet everyone, thank you so much for making this trip incredible! Of course, biggest thanks to Jenn and Calvin for putting this together and making it all possible! Keep in touch everyone and see you in NYC soon for a reunion!” – Joyce Zhang

“Thanks [The Monsoon Diaries and Map&Move] for everything during this insane, hilarious, awesome and memorable trip.” – Ambrose Chu

“I will miss you folks. Thank you so much for your kindness and making me immediately feel like a part of the framily. I hope we keep in touch and wish you all safe and wonderful continued travels. Looking forward to sharing photos and more. . . . The thanks are to you and Jenn for all you have and continue to do with leading us.” – Nadi Kaonga

“Echoing the same sentiments as everyone else here. Thank you so much for such a fun week. I’m super glad to have met all of you and let’s definitely hang out / keep in touch!” – Christina Ren

“So awesome to meet everyone!  Definitely looking forward to a reunion.” – Kel Sage

“It was great meeting all of you guys. Thanks for the wonderful memories. Expecting a lot of great pics during the week.” – Eric Huynh

“Thank you both so much for organizing the Scandinavia trip! I really appreciate all of your hard work and effort…Enjoy the rest of your trip and again, thank you! 😘 Katy” – Katy Budge

“FYI Rupa, Carol and I made a pact that when you [Calvin] do Madagascar, we’re all going.” – Taylan Stulting

“I had a lot of fun. Definitely a memorable trip. Taylan is fantastic and awww… so responsible and detail oriented!” – Carol Wong

“Everything went well! Taylan was freaking awesome. Waiting for their next trip / monsoon!!” – Rupa Patel

“Big shout out to Carol and Rupa for being part of my first Monsoon as a trip leader. . . .big shout out to Calvin and The Monsoon Diaries for helping make this happen. It was an amazing experience getting to know both of you and get my feet wet (both literally and metaphorically) with trying out this tour guide thing, which I loved: Farewell My Friends.

I’m beginning to plan another trip to lead with The Monsoon Diaries for sometime next spring – possibly involving part of the Silk Road so stayed tuned!” – Taylan Stulting

“Monsoon Diaries is an awesome way to travel! I had the fortune of traveling alongside Taylan and another Monsooner late last year. Unforgettable experience! Would highly recommend.” – Rupa Patel

 

Week 1

$800/pax
  • Scandinavia: Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland!

Week 2

$750/pax
  • The Baltic States: Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania!

Price inclusive of:

  • All Transport between cities including all rail, buses and ferries
  • All Accommodation
  • Listed itinerary
  • Guide fees
  • Some museum entry fees

Price exclusive of:

  • International Flights
  • Food & Drink
  • Personal expenses
  • Public transportation
  • Optional activities/day-tours/excursions
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa Fees (although we will advise you depending on your passport and country of residence)

Our Previously Organized Independent Tours

August 8-24, 2015

Monsooners: Jennifer “Mom” Li, Dave “Responsible Uncle” Zhou, Jamie “Jamilah” Jimenez, Emily “Meathead” Chen, Jennifer “YAY” Yeh, William “Whale Meat” Lau, Ambrose “Celtic” Chu, Nadi “Better Late Than Never” Kaonga, Eric “Flow” Huynh, Teresa “T” Thong, Vivian “V” Cheng, Kelly “Skyscraper” Joo, Shannon “Six-Shootin’ American Idol” Murphy, Katy “Texan Belle” Budge, Michelle “Kindergarden Cop” Duncan, Alex “Athos” Wang, Jack “Porthos” He, Will “Aramis” Chen, Kel “D’artagnan” Sage, Alice “Club Alice” Tsui, Jeffrey “The Wise Man” O’Neill, Joyce “Telepath” Zhang, Joshua “Blynines” Zhang, Christina “Tamer Of The Whale Meat” Ren, Tara Densmore, Tamara Densmore

Testimonials: Click here.

October 14-29, 2017

Monsooners: Taylan “You Do You” Stulting (Leader), Rupa “I’m Over It” Patel, Carol “Wang Wang” Wong

Testimonials: Click here.

Interested In The Baltic Crescent!

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