Planning a bachelor or bachelorette trip should be exciting, not overwhelming. I talk to a lot of people who feel stuck between doing the typical Las Vegas party weekend or feeling like they need to plan something overly elaborate to make it special. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to follow the crowd, and you don’t have to sacrifice meaning or fun to have a memorable pre-wedding celebration.
As a Reno travel agency that specializes in personalized, experience-first trips, I love helping couples and their friends plan something unique—something that fits their style, their vibe, and their budget. Whether you're the traveler who wants beachy downtime, cultural exploration, or adrenaline-pumping adventure, there are destinations out there that can deliver. And the best part? You don't have to plan it alone.
Bachelor and bachelorette trips have become synonymous with wild nightlife and big party scenes. And while there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s not for everyone. In fact, many of the people I work with are looking for something more personal—a getaway that reflects who they are and how they truly want to spend time with their favorite people.
Instead of following the crowd to the same three party cities, why not consider an experience that feels more aligned with you? Think hiking through the Scottish Highlands, relaxing in a private villa in Costa Rica, wine tasting in Portugal, or glamping under the stars in Utah. These are the kinds of trips that create real memories and give your group something to bond over.
One of the biggest perks of going the non-traditional route is that you're not competing with every other group on the same itinerary. Smaller or less touristy destinations tend to offer more value for your money, better service, and a calmer, more immersive experience overall.
Choosing a lesser-known destination doesn’t mean sacrificing fun. It means creating space to connect, explore, and celebrate in a way that feels more intentional. Whether you’re a foodie crew looking for culinary experiences, a nature-loving group that wants to get off the grid, or city explorers interested in art, history, and culture, there are options that let you celebrate without the chaos.
When planning your trip, the first thing I ask is: what do you actually want to do? If partying until 4 a.m. isn’t your thing, don’t feel like it has to be part of your plan. There are no rules here. Bachelor and bachelorette trips can be all about self-care, adrenaline, cultural discovery, or even a mix of everything.
I’ve helped groups book everything from yoga retreats in Bali to dog sledding excursions in Iceland. Some want private cooking classes and hot air balloon rides, while others are into surfing, hiking, or simply relaxing with wine and a view. No matter the destination, the goal is to create a trip that feels like you—not a cookie-cutter itinerary.
You don’t need to go far to find a unique destination. Some of my favorite off-the-beaten-path recommendations include:
Each of these destinations offers something different—and none of them feel overdone.
Planning a group trip can be tricky, especially when you're trying to coordinate everyone’s preferences, budgets, and schedules. That’s where I come in. I help take the pressure off by organizing everything from transportation and accommodations to experiences, dining, and group activities.
As a travel advisor based in Reno, I work with clients across the country but also love supporting local travelers who are looking for a friendly face to help bring their ideas to life. Whether you're the maid of honor trying to pull everything together or the bride/groom dreaming up your ideal celebration, I make the process easier and more enjoyable.
One of my favorite parts of this job is hearing the stories that come back after a trip. Like the group of lifelong friends who chose an artsy weekend in Santa Fe over the usual beach party—they came back with pottery, shared memories, and a new appreciation for quiet time together. Or the couple who decided to plan a joint bachelor-bachelorette trip in Italy, combining wine tours with city exploration and relaxing countryside stays.
These aren’t one-size-fits-all vacations. They’re stories in the making. And when you work with someone who understands travel and how to make it personal, the result is something that truly stands out.
Whether you know exactly where you want to go or you’re just starting to brainstorm, I’m here to help. My goal is to make sure your trip feels easy, exciting, and memorable from the first conversation to the final airport goodbye. There’s no pressure, just guidance, ideas, and support from someone who loves what they do.
If you're ready to break the mold with your bachelor or bachelorette getaway, reach out. Let’s design something that feels true to you.
Brenda Larson, The Reno Travel Agent
An independent travel advisor with Holiday Planit
