Let’s talk about us…
This is our first blog so welcome!
In this blog, we thought we’d take the opportunity to introduce ourselves – who we are, how we started, and what we’ve been up to. We’ll also share where we have been, what we have been doing and where we’re heading next.
Let’s get into it…
Beyond The Borders was born out of a passion for travel, a love for culture and the desire to explore destinations that so few get to see.
It all started with a trip to North Korea – an eye-opening experience that made us realise how much of the world is overlooked or misunderstood. We wanted others to have the chance to see these places for themselves, to meet the people, and to experience the culture beyond the headlines or stereotypes.
We are going to do it anyway so we thought, why not bring you guys along for the ride?
We’re not here to sell generic holidays or tick off tourist checklists. We’re here to explore the unexplored – the places that challenge expectations, shift perspectives, and stick with you long after you’ve returned home.
When will the North Korean Borders open?
Of course, North Korea is the one everyone’s waiting on – and the truth is, we still have no news. The border remains closed to everyone except Russian passport holders, with no indication of when it might open.
We’ve been in touch with our partners in Pyongyang this week for an update, and unfortunately, nothing has changed. The only bit of news is that tours for Russian citizens are now visiting the new Wonsan Kalma resort… lucky them!
We’ve been assured that as soon as the border opens, we’ll be informed – along with details on when tours can resume, what they’ll cost, and what the itineraries will include. We’ve received a few draft itineraries featuring the new resort, but we’ll hold off on sharing anything until we have confirmed information.
Keep up to date with all things North Korea by signing up to our newsletter at the bottom of any page on our site.
Afghanistan Tours!
In July we went on a research trip with our local partners to Afghanistan, it blew our minds.
Since then, we’ve sat down and created some incredibly special tours, completely unique to Beyond The Borders. We can’t wait for you to join us!
We have two options available, both in October of 2026:
Ultimate Afghanistan Tour – Kabul, Bamyan, the Band-e-Amir Blue Lakes, the Minaret of Jam, Herat, Kandahar, Ghazni, Mazar e Sharif, Balkh District and Samangan.
Essential Afghanistan Tour – Kabul, Herat, Bamyan, the Band-e-Amir Blue Lakes, Samangan, Mazar e Sharif and Balkh District.
You’ll experience daily life in Afghanistan, learn about the country’s rich culture and history, meet the locals, and enjoy some of the best food in the world.
These tours are like no other and an adventure that will leave you with memories of a lifetime.
The Philippines Secret: Sulu
We haven’t just got Afghanistan lined up – we also have a tour of one of our favourite, and most misunderstood, places in Asia: Sulu.
Sulu is located in the Sulu Sea, just off the coast of Mindanao. We wouldn’t be surprised if you hadn’t heard of it – it’s well off the tourist trail in the Philippines. In fact, most people avoid it.
The far south of the Philippines has long carried a reputation for being volatile and dangerous – but that’s old news. We’ve explored the region extensively, and what we discovered was a place full of welcoming people, vibrant culture, and truly unforgettable food.
We won’t give too much away, but in Sulu, you’ll learn about the Tausug people, their customs and traditions, and their unique way of life. You’ll visit grand mosques, gain insight into Islam in the Philippines, have beach BBQs with locals, and explore one of the country’s last untouched paradises.
Check out our Secret of Sulu Tour here
What next?
Of course, we’re not stopping at just three destinations – we’ve got plenty more in the works. We’re currently exploring safaris in Africa, tribal experiences in Papua New Guinea and Indonesia, and there’s a lot more to come in Central Asia. We’re also planning a research trip to, Nepal, Bhutan and Mongolia in early 2026.
We’ve got a lot going on and a lot more to do, but we’re committed to making sure our trips are truly unique – not just copy-and-paste itineraries. We want them to be safe, affordable, and most importantly, we want them to blow your mind.
We’ll see you Beyond The Borders.
