If you know about Backroads, you know about Backroads. A truly unique and active way to explore a destination. Incredible itineraries. Breathtaking scenery. Amazing guides. And if you don’t know about Backroads, we’re glad you’re here! Backroads is the leader in “active” travel and offers deluxe biking, walking/hiking, multi-adventure, and family vacations around the world. They also offer active river & ocean cruising, culinary tours, active safaris, weekend getaways, and active snow adventures. And don’t worry if you feel like you’re “out of shape;” all activity levels are welcome and fully supported! We’re excited to introduce you to Leigh Sassone with Backroads who is here to answer this month’s 8 questions!
CIRE: Hello Leigh! Our team has been planning more and more Backroads trips for our clients recently. We’re excited to feature you in this month’s interview! Please introduce yourself to our readers.
LEIGH: My name is Leigh Sassone, Assistant Director – Travel Advisor Program at Backroads. I manage our dedicated Travel Advisor team assisting Advisors with queries, questions, and support. I am a native New Yorker with a passion for traveling and culture that has taken me far beyond the five boroughs, and at 47+ countries—yes, I’m keeping count—the passion has yet to cease. As a student, studies abroad in Scotland, Ghana, and Spain fostered my love of connecting and traveling with different people early on, and I’m grateful to have found a path that enables me to do so every day.
CIRE: You don’t meet too many native New Yorkers! Do you still live in the city, Leigh?
LEIGH: Stamford, Connecticut is home now. I grew up in New York and spent 15 years away working for hotels in Hawaii and California before relocating back East in 2021. While I miss the beach and gorgeous weather, it feels good to be back to my roots!
New York City is the most diverse and culturally rich city in the world. Skip the tourist spots and instead wander neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, SoHo, or the Upper East Side. There’s delicious food, beautiful art & architecture, and vibrant music. I love all the museums available in the city such as the MET, Museum of Natural History, and Brooklyn Museum.
CIRE: For those who don’t know much about your company, can you tell us more about Backroads?
LEIGH: Backroads embraces traveling actively under ‘human power’. Biking, hiking, rafting, et cetera present a unique way to experience a destination. Backroads provides active travel, but with luxury service, excellent Trip Leaders, luxury hotels, and activities. With trip offerings in over 55 countries, 21 states, and 22 National Parks, Backroads’ offerings far exceed the competition out there.
CIRE: And what about those of us who are less active? Will we still enjoy a Backroads vacation?
LEIGH: Backroads provides active travel for everyone! You don’t need to be a triathlete, an overly energetic 22-year-old, or a marathon runner to enjoy Backroads. In addition to Biking trips, Backroads also has been offering Walking & Hiking trips for over 30 years. A stellar option for those out there who aren’t cycling enthusiasts. Backroads also offers Multi-Adventure hybrid trips, plus Women’s Adventures, Snow Adventures, and Active Cruising. Dolce Tempo ‘Easy Going’ trips are the perfect option for multi-gen families as well as friends traveling together.
CIRE: Love the “Dolce Tempo” trips! And tell us more about Women’s Adventures?
LEIGH: Backroads Women Adventures segment is an exciting new offering, meant to bring together like-minded women on the same immersive experiences you know and love, but this time, shared in the company of all women. 2025 dates are available with new itineraries in places like Finland, Patagonia, and USA.
CIRE: Such a fantastic idea for singles and groups of friends alike! And so many great destinations, too. What’s your top vacation pick?
LEIGH: My favorite vacation destination is Sardinia, Italy. The secluded beaches are magical and perfect for a long day of relaxation. I’ve always said Sardinia has the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, the gorgeous landscapes of California, and the incredibly fresh foods of Italy. The best of all worlds!
CIRE: Ooh…Sardinia sounds right up our alley! And where are you headed on your next vacation?
LEIGH: My next vacation is Croatia this October on Backroads’ Annual Staff Ride. Each year Backroads gets up to 500 employees together from around the world to cycle and socialize as a celebration for a successful season. This year is my third and it feels good to be slightly seasoned. Last year was in India, with Provence before that.
CIRE: Wow! You really are well-traveled. Do you have a travel mantra?
LEIGH: Travel with a purpose, not a checklist. Take time to smile, say hello to locals, and ask sincere questions – it goes a long way no matter where you are!
CIRE: Amen! To all of those! Thank you, Leigh! We’re gonna hit the stationary bike at the gym to start getting ready for our Backroads adventure!
CIRE Travel is a full-service travel agency headquartered in New York, NY. Our expert corporate travel planners, honeymoon travel agents, and luxury travel planners support clients across the country and around the world.
Where in the World Do You Want to Go?
Inspired to plan your next weekend getaway, vacation or trip of a lifetime? See that form below? That’s all it takes to begin your next epic travel story.