The classic African safari still conjures trite, khaki-hued nostalgia for the era of ‘Out of Africa.’ But now, local operators offer more nuanced and immersive experiences.

For a Good Cause columnist Melissa Heckscher writes about a former pro volleyball player turned sandcastle creator.

These emerging powerhouses turn the familiar on its head, showcasing museums on archaeological frontiers, intimate lodges where tradition steers luxury and festivals that rewrite the world map.