High on the Tibetan plateau, a glacier-fed stream trickles down the western slope of Geladandong Mountain. As it plummets in elevation, other waterways strengthen its surge, pushing it past walls of mountains and into valleys, past yak herds, rice paddies, and wide-open farms.
This is the mighty Yangtze, third longest river in the world and one of the largest waterways by volume. Its course has shaped the fate of China’s history and culture over millennia, a source of drinking water, irrigation, transit, and legendary tales. To say nothing of the breathtaking beauty of the Three Gorges. This 75-mile stretch could well provide some of the most dramatic scenery of any river in the world, thanks to the towering mountains that guide the water’s winding route.
Ming Mountain and the city of Fengdu oversee the Yangtze from its northern banks, providing the perfect riverside vantage point for the spirits that many believe inhabit this “ghost city.” Fengdu is an interesting prelude to a Yangtze cruise, fertile as it is with legends about the afterlife. In Chinese lore, the dead must pass three tests before they pass into heaven. If they fail, they are destined to spend eternity in the underworld. In Fengdu, this journey is brought to life: the city’s main attractions are the three bridges that represent the three tests.
Perhaps three—three bridges, three tests—is the magic number along the Yangtze. Surely, the Three Gorges through which we cruise cast a spell of their own. Of the trio of mountain-lined river passageways, the Qutang could be the most spectacular. Only five miles long, it zig-zags through a narrow canyon, dwarfed by mountains as tall as 4,000 feet. Near its entrance, you are greeted by the Hanging Monk Rock. Legend has it that a soldier who was trying to climb this hillside in the dark of night to recover the body of his revered general was frightened away by a monk who crowed like a rooster greeting the dawn. As revenge, the soldier hung the monk upside down, and he remains there still.
After winding through Qutang Gorge, the Yangtze flows through the Wu Mountains and into the 25-mile Wu Gorge, known as the Witches Gorge. Each of the dramatic Twelve Peaks that marks our progress symbolizes a fairy popular in local lore. Here, another rock formation at one of the summit’s peaks tells a story, this one of a penitent maiden represented by a huge rock that resembles a kneeling goddess. Long, deep canyons here leave this section of the river in shade much of the day.
Xiling is the final gorge on a downstream itinerary, the longest at 49 miles. The river quickens here through some narrow, magnificent stretches along the Three Rapids of Xiling. Passage along this section of the Yangtze was once treacherous, but some water control projects have calmed the waters, making for a smoother journey.
But one project along the Yangtze was not so smooth: the controversial Three Gorges Dam. Fully completed in 2012, it is the largest hydroelectric dam in the world, and its construction was highly contested. When the dam was complete, water levels rose upriver and submerged priceless artifacts of Chinese culture and history. The government stepped in to save some of the treasures, but not all. The larger impact was on the tiny villages that once lined the Yangtze’s banks. Millions of people were relocated to higher ground. Proponents of the dam point to the huge amount of energy generated by its turbines, increased shipping and more trade upriver thanks to deeper waters, and the prevention of historically deadly flooding downriver every spring.
No matter your position, the Yangtze waters still flow, and they lead Gate 1 travelers into a magical landscape.
It would be misleading to talk about Chinese cuisine as a single entity. The scope of cooking in China is as wide and diverse as China itself. Ingredients and techniques have evolved over the centuries with every dynasty and each empire. And the cuisine varies even more according to each region’s climate, imperial preferences throughout history, and of course available local ingredients.
In imperial China, meat and other animal products were hard to come by, though emperors often had more access to pork and beef. Royalty and commoners alike relied on rice in the south and dumplings or noodles in the north. Meals were augmented by vegetables, peanuts, and soy. It may sound like a simple diet, but an emperor’s first act was often to appoint a head chef, and competition could be mean-spirited between cooks.
Mao’s Communist Party vowed to steer away from this agrarian dependence with its “Great Leap Forward” campaign. This move toward industrialization and collective agriculture ended up being a great leap backward when the widespread movement failed, leading to the Great Chinese Famine. It wasn’t until the late 1970s that Deng Xiaoping’s economic reforms brought more meats and animal products to Chinese tables. This turn in history changed Chinese cuisine dramatically, enriching it with protein and fat and opening doors to new and innovative gastronomy.
Today’s Chinese Table
China’s most ubiquitous drink is tea. This comes as no surprise when you consider that the country was the first to cultivate tea leaves for steeping as early as the third century. In some circles both within and outside China, tea is discussed with the same vigor that oenophiles discuss wine, with many devotees even hosting tasting parties. Climate, soil, and species of plant all affect how a tea is categorized, for instance, as green, oolong, black, scented, white, or compressed. Just as wine aficionados serve cheese with their preferred beverage, tea connoisseurs accompany their drink with nuts, dried fruit, or melon seeds.
This is not to suggest that the Chinese are teetotalers. By some accounts, 99.5% of the alcohol sold on China’s shelves is baijiu, or white liquor, making it the most consumed spirit in the world. The clear, potent liquor is made from sorghum or other grains such as rice, wheat, or barley. More familiar to westerners is rice wine, in which grains are converted from starch to sugar with the aid of enzymes. This should not be confused with sake, which is also made from rice but converted via a mashing and brewing process similar to that used to make beer.
Chopsticks are at every Chinese table and they’ve had a profound impact on cuisine. As they became the common utensil, dishes needed to be prepared with them in mind. Therefore, most recipes call for bite-sized pieces or tender cuts of fish that can be pried apart with a poke or two. Some historians believe that the omnipresence of the chopstick ushered the arrival of dim sum into Chinese culture, which consists of small pieces served on small plates, such as dumplings, rice rolls, turnip cakes, and stir-fried vegetables.
Hot Pots are also conducive to chopstick dipping. In this style of cooking—with its common Mongolian and Szechuan variations—a brass pot of simmering broth is placed at the center of the table. The pot might be sectioned to contain two or three flavors of broth. In the most traditional serving, the pot is heated over a central, coal-fueled chimney. Diners then choose a raw food from a family-style plate and cook it in the broth.
4 Reasons to Love Chinese Cuisine
Considering the above as a base—rice in the south, dumplings and noodles in the north, vegetables and nuts, a late introduction of meats, and tea and baijiu all around—today’s Chinese cuisine is best categorized into four types, each influenced by climate, geography, lifestyle, and mass migrations over the centuries:
Cantonese (southeastern China). This is the most familiar Chinese cuisine to the western palate, thanks to the Cantonese chefs who have ridden a wave of immigration to the U.S. Steaming and stir-frying are the most common cooking methods, and all forms of meat may be used, with the exception of lamb and goat. Herbs and spices are added modestly so that the flavors of a dish’s main ingredients can shine. Sauces and condiments are common.
Shandong (northeastern China). Shandong cuisine has a long history that dates back to imperial days. In fact, some scholars believe that all other culinary styles in China derived from its simplicity. It heavily emphasizes seafood and soups enhanced by light flavors. Corn, peanuts, and vegetables such as potatoes, cabbages, mushrooms, and eggplants appear often. As for a staple at every meal, rice takes a back seat to steamed breads.
Jiangsu (central eastern China). This type of cooking favors braising and stewing and is popular in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. Meat is very soft but if prepared correctly does not fall off the bone. Ingredients in Jiangsu cuisine are selected from whatever is in season, and are often chosen in order to achieve a harmony in color and shape. Soup often appears on a Jiangsu menu.
Szechuan (southwestern China). Bold flavors are common in Szechuan cuisine, especially from garlic, chili peppers, and the unique Sichuan pepper. The main spicy dishes are often accompanied by non-spicy options to cool the palate. In some kitchens, the gastronomy has proven so sophisticated that UNESCO declared the city of Chengdu a City of Gastronomy in 2011. Beef is more common on a Szechuan menu as the region is home to a lot of oxen.
Mountain Cuisine of Tibet
With such a high altitude, Tibet cannot grow many crops. Some elevations are low enough, however, to cultivate rice, oranges, bananas, and lemons. Barley is the most important crop, and is roasted and milled to create the nation’s staple, known as tsampa. Shapale (a meat and cabbage dish) and balep (bread) are also central to the Tibetan diet. A common dinner dish is thukpa, a mixture of noodles, vegetables, and beef in a broth. Hearty stews are also served at the Tibetan table, made with yak, goat, or mutton meat and potatoes.
Fans (including Princess Kate herself!) love Downton Abbey for the twisting plotlines and Crawley family intrigue – not to mention the fabulous shots of Highclere Castle, where the show is filmed.
Now, you can get one last glimpse of the Abbey – in person! Gate 1 Travel has designed an exclusive package especially for Downton Abbey fans: four nights in London, with a private tour of the set – at just $1599 with airfare for Gate 1 Travel followers.
You’ll spend a day touring Highclere Castle, strolling through rooms featured in the Downton Abbey series while your guides share the history of the castle – and maybe a few behind-the-scenes anecdotes! Explore the magnificent gardens, or channel your inner Lady Grantham and take tea in one of the castle’s tearooms, before taking a drive through the English countryside to Oxford. Stay in a 4-star hotel near the center of London, and explore the city on a half-day tour and a full day of leisure.
Use promo code BLHCDA100 and book by February 8, 2016 to join this unique British excursion!
The Cradle of Civilization Is as Magnificent as Ever
It is no secret that Greece has long danced to its own rhythm. One would expect nothing less from the place where western civilization itself was born. From poetry to philosophy, from democracy to drama, all the major disciplines that formed the building blocks of how we live today were created here during an ancient renaissance of arts, science and critical thinking.
For many – certainly, for today’s Greeks – the nation is so alluring because of the independence that it still exhibits today. And for all the attention it is getting regarding its place in the European Union, Greece remains one of the most beautiful and sought-after places on earth. How could it not? Its intense mountain and coastal beauty, dotted with colonnaded temples and awash in Aegean sun, are the stuff of every traveler’s dreams. Its lively culture, punctuated with dance and fabulous Mediterranean cuisine, engages the most stoic visitor. And its ancient monuments, proudly perched amidst cities, mountains and island vistas, have endured millennia of change. Dare we say, they will continue to do so. As for the Greeks themselves, they take hospitality to be god-given, just like their ancient ancestors. To them, warmth and kindness are divine rights that everyone deserves. They remain as welcoming as ever, their spirit soaring and their doors and arms wide open.
And there’s another reason to travel to Greece now: The nation’s euro-zone challenges are keeping many visitors away, though we can’t imagine why. For you, that means fewer crowds at ancient sites that are typically (and notoriously) overcrowded. It also means that you’ll find much lower prices as you dine out on your own and shop for souvenirs. And speaking of Greek dining…
Fresh, Mediterranean Cuisine at Every Table
Greece is world famous for its simple food. The Mediterranean diet has certainly won praise for its proven health benefits. Local dishes exude the steadfast character of their origins – fava in Santorini, amygdalota in Mykonos, cheese pie with honey in Crete. But no matter where you visit, you’ll encounter the pleasures of freshly baked breads and a bounty of vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and zucchinis. To Greeks, food is a celebration best served as saganaki, a fried cheese; souvlaki, grilled meat on a skewer; moussaka, a meat and eggplant casserole; and fried octopus – all enhanced with that crisp Greek olive oil. To wash it all down, uncork a bottle of an up and coming wine grown in the country’s diverse terroir. The flavors and notes of Greek wines is so unique that 72% of its vintages that were entered into the Decanter World Wine Awards received a prize, 3 of them gold and 50 of them silver.
Civilization’s Cradle
Just as Athens is the Cradle of Civilization, it is also the central focus of many trips to Greece. Its Acropolis stands gloriously atop its hill like a beacon in the Grecian sun, as if shining down upon the modern-day city that it shaped. So many elements of civilization were born here—democracy, philosophy, arts—that it’s impossible to not be moved by a simple stroll among its temples and past its masterfully preserved Parthenon. Much of the site and its relics (as well as artifacts from Greek antiquity worldwide) are beautifully illuminated by a visit to the National Archaeological Museum. Indeed, it is considered one of the great museums of the world.
The legacy of the ancients lives far and wide, of course. But it’s especially poignant to witness the houses of democracy in the city of its birth, from the President’s residence to Constitution Square. And when it’s time for a relaxing stroll, the intimate streets of the shop-lined Plaka district at the base of Acropolis Hill invite you to explore.
The Pleasures of the Peloponnese
A 19th-century engineering marvel separates the mainland from the Peloponnese Peninsula. The Corinth Canal, which opened in 1893, was literally carved out of solid rock. It had long been a dream of the ancients to connect the Gulf of Corinth and the Saronic Gulf; construction efforts date as far back as the 1st century AD. Today, the sculpted gorge is sheer-faced and dramatic.
The rustic Peloponnese Peninsula—to the west of metropolitan Athens—boasts a rich past of its own. Perhaps most famously, the first Olympic Games were held here, in Olympia. They were first staged in honor of the god Zeus, whose temple is still impressive despite that it lies in ruins. Nearby, the hillside city of Nauplion, with its stunning setting on the azure waters of the Argolic Gulf, was the capital of the First Hellenic Republic and a coveted city of many royal houses. Its cobbled streets, stone buildings, and multi-hued shutters date back centuries. Two castles add to its scenic splendor: The Venetian Bourtzi sits in the middle of the harbor and the hilltop Palamidi offers dramatic views of the town. In the second millennium BC, however, it was Mycenae that held sway over southern Greece. This major center of ancient civilization was defended by a solid stone fortress whose ruins whisper of sieges past.
Stunning Places of Worship and Wonder
North of the Peloponnese, Delphi attracted countless devout worshipers in ancient times. Legend recalls that a high priestess delivered prophecies here in a highly agitated state. It was believed that the gods were speaking through her, but today scientists suspect it was the vapors rising from a chasm below the temple that put her in an altered state. Today, Delphi still inspires awe, albeit more from its natural setting than from its incantations. This vast complex includes the Temple of Apollo, the Delphi and Tholos temples and a huge amphitheater—all of it surrounded by soaring mountain slopes.
More sources of inspiration are perched high on sandstone pillars in the town of Kalambaka in Greece’s central plains. Here, the six Eastern Orthodox monasteries of Meteora (translated as “in the heavens above”) are perched atop naturally formed rock towers averaging 1,000 feet above sea level. When they were originally built starting in the 14th century, they could only be reached by a harrowing climb up a rope ladder. These incredible structures must be seen to be believed.
The Aegean of Your Dreams
The Greek Islands find their way into every traveler’s dreams. Blue church domes and rustic windmills rise from a cluster of whitewashed villages that cling to hillsides. Sleepy cobbled streets lead to inviting squares and cafés where you can while away an afternoon over grape leaves and ouzo. Time slows down in the Aegean, and Gate 1’s island itineraries help you do the same in a magnificent setting, from the glittering Cyclades to the historic Dodecanese archipelagos.
The small island of Mykonos could be the most famed of the Greek Islands, thanks to its iconic windmills and blue-domed churches. Along the coast and amidst its hilly interior, white villages with blue doorways and rounded, thatched-roof windmills dot the landscape. Its labyrinthine tiny streets are a delight to explore and its sandy white beaches were surely made for basking.
Santorini is one of the most romantic islands. Its volcanic origins have given it beaches of white, red, or black sand. It is truly an otherworldly landscape of dramatic rock formations and lunar-like terrain. Its fascinating Bronze Age archeological site of Akrotiri opened recently, giving fascinating insight into primitive life here. Surprisingly, Santorini is one of Greece’s most prolific wine producers, as you’ll learn if you visit a local winery.
Vineyards also dot the landscape of Paros. All varieties of beaches line this pretty island’s shores, from tiny hidden bays to long swathes of golden sand. Gentle, terraced vine-laden hills and olive groves undulate over the island. The vibrant blue of Naoussa Bay plays host to fishing boats in cheery colors, a lovely sight against the waterside whitewash of the village.
Crete stands as the largest and most diverse of the Greek Islands. In addition to endless beauty and stunning beaches, tiny villages and agrarian settlements hold fast to tradition here. Medieval fortresses lord over the coast. Snow-covered peaks spill toward dramatic gorges that pour mountain-fed water into the sea. Crete is also home to large cities brimming with rich culture. But its historic touch-point is Knossos, an ancient palace complex dating to 1900 BC. This remarkable site is considered the oldest city in all of Europe. According to legend, King Minos kept his mythical son Minotaur in a labyrinth here.
These four islands offer just a taste of the Aegean’s magnificence. Select Gate 1 itineraries also call on the Cyclades Islands of Milos, Syros and Ios and the Dodecanese Islands of Patmos, Kos and Rhodes, where a beautifully preserved medieval city and the sprawling Grand Masters Palace overlook the glimmering sea. You can also explore the islands of Samos and Chios, semi-autonomous islands off the Turkish coast with their own brand of Aegean beauty and rich history.
So Many Ways to Experience Greece with Gate 1 Travel
A country as diverse as Greece opens itself up to limitless exploration. Gate 1 offers an array of travel styles so you can take in the rich and colorful Aegean culture your way. Our classic Escorted Tours showcase the best of the country for you, with a generous array of inclusions and the services of a local Greek Tour Manager. For the free-spirited, choose one of our Independent Vacations, which provide your basic necessities like flights and hotels and leave you to follow your own whims.
If the magical Greek Islands call to you, choose an itinerary that combines land touring with overnight accommodations either on a small ship or on a large Norwegian Cruise Lines cruise ship, exploring additional destinations as wide-reaching as Venice, Florence and Rome. And if you’d rather rub elbows with locals, some of our hotel-based trips let you island-hop on local ferries, for a truly authentic experience.
The Perfect Time to See Greece Is Now
The timeless antiquities, spectacular beauty and warm welcomes of Greece are to be savored. And with fewer crowds visiting its most iconic sites, you can do just that in a relaxed and hospitable atmosphere. Join us in 2016 and experience it all for yourself, at the value you’d expect, with Gate 1 Travel.
Join Gate 1 Travel in Greece! Follow these links to our exciting Greece Tours and Greek Island Cruises. Or call to reserve, 1-800-682-3333!
Greece is no stranger to cuisine. In fact, it was a Greek, Archestratos, who wrote the first cookbook in history, in 320 B.C. Today, the Mediterranean diet consistently wins praise for its proven health benefits. Local dishes exude the steadfast character of their origins – fava in Santorini, masticha in Chios, amygdalota in Mykonos, cheese pie with honey in Crete. But no matter where you visit, you’ll encounter the pleasures of freshly baked breads and a bounty of vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and zucchinis.
To Greeks, food is a celebration best served as saganaki, grilled lamb, moussaka, fried octopus – all enhanced with that crisp Greek olive oil.
The diverse terroir of Greece has been producing wines longer than most any other place in the world, for close to 6,500 years. The flavors and notes of Greek wines is so unique that 72% of its vintages that were entered into the Decanter World Wine Awards received a prize, 3 of them gold and 50 of them silver.
Here’s what you can expect to find on the Greek table:
Food of Greece:
Mezes. Like Spanish tapas, mezes is a small-plate approach to Greek dining. Items can vary from piquant olives to a pita bread with dips to more complicated dishes such as cold eggplant salad. Mezes should not be confused with orektika that you might see on a menu, which is the formal name for appetizers that are intended to precede larger meals.
Olive oil. Like in many Mediterranean restaurants, olive oil is a central ingredient in Greek cooking, pressed from the olive trees that have graced the country’s landscape for centuries.
Cheese. With a climate and landscape conducive to goats and sheep, a wide array of cheeses are common in the Greek diet, from feta to kasseri.
Filo. Whether in large sheets or bite-sized triangles, various fillings might be wrapped in filo dough, from chicken to spinach and cheese to minced meat. One version of this, spanakopita, might be served with cubes of feta.
Tiganita. These deep-fried vegetables might be served as a side dish.
Dolmadakia. Cousins of the Turkish dolma, these grape leaves are often stuffed with rice, vegetables, or meat.
Fava. This puree of yellow split peas or beans might be flavored with olive oil, garlic or parsley and served as part of mezes with pita bread.
Greek salad. This simple salad is made with tomato salad, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese and kalamata olives.
Tzatziki. Served with warm pita bread, this is a yogurt with cucumber and garlic puree.
Fasolada. Often called the national food of Greece, this white bean soup is made with tomatoes, carrot and celery.
Fakes. This lentil soup is typically accompanied by vinegar and olive oil.
Moussaka. Eaten warm or cold, this casserole is usually made with ground meat and either eggplant or potatoes.
Wines of Greece:
Agiorghitiko (red). Also known as St. George’s grape, this wine is mostly produced in the Peloponnese region. The soft, fruity red expresses itself in many styles with qualities that are similar to Beaujolais.
Xinomavro (red). This “sour black” grape ages well and has flavor notes that actually bring tomatoes and olives.
Assyrtiko (white). This grape is mostly grown on the island of Santorini, whose old vines were resistant to the phylloxera virus that wiped out other European vineyards. It has characteristics similar to Riesling.
Savatiano (white). Known as the “Saturday” grape, this is the major white grape of Attica. It has a distinct floral, fruity aroma and if fermented without cooling, its wine matches well with Mediterranean dishes.
Roditis (rose). Very popular in the Peloponnese, this elegant and light wine has lovely citrus flavors.
Gate 1 Travel is excited to announce that we are launching our first photo contest with a chance to win $500! Tag your best photo(s) from past trips with both #gate1travel #gate1contest and be entered to win a $500 Visa pre-paid gift card. One winning photo will be selected from each category (Europe, the Mediterranean, Africa, Asia & Pacific, USA & Canada, and Latin America). The grand prize winner will be chosen from among the regional winners by our Facebook fans! The contest is open until February 29, 2016 and a winner will be announced in March. Full Details
With shifting sands of time, four cities have vied for Morocco’s crown
“The tar of my country is better than the honey of others.” So goes the old Moroccan proverb, revealing the deep pride of its people-a pride justified by its sweeping history, abiding culture, and dramatic settings. And there’s no better way to peer behind the veil of centuries than to explore Morocco’s four Imperial Cities. Fez, Marrakesh, Rabat, and Meknes have all held the title of capital-often swapping back and forth-but each has its own unique flavor.
A Son Shows Off: Fez
Sultan Idriss II, a great-great grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, established Fez, Morocco’s first capital, early in the 9th century-directly across the river from the city his father founded. The city takes it name from the word for pickaxe, as Idriss II is said to have used one made of gold and silver to mark the glorious city’s borders. The son’s handiwork soon outpaced the father’s when the new city welcomed 800 Berber families fleeing conflict in Andalusia; they were soon followed by 2,000 displaced Arab families.
Over centuries, the two cities-Idriss II’s and his father’s-became one, blossoming into an epic metropolis whose city walls extended for nearly 10 miles. By 1170, it was home to over 200,000 and the largest city on earth. See the city from above today and its scope remains staggering, with the constantly bustling medina (the world’s largest car-free urban area), the “new” city from the 13th century, and the French-influenced ville nouvelle.
Here, one experiences a panoply of delights from the colors and textures of ancient madrasas to the artisan district where carpets are made, leather is dyed, and copper craftsmen ply their trade. The world’s oldest continuously operating university, the Islamic Al-Karaouine, is here, coexisting for centuries with the adjacent Mellah, the Jewish Quarter. But it’s more than architecture and monuments that inspire visitors: sharing a meal with a local family will offer you the best insight of all into life in this storied city.
A palm-dotted sight for sore eyes: Marrakesh
Even while Fez was still growing, an upstart nabbed the title of capital. Marrakesh was made an Imperial capital by successive Berber empires in the 12th century, the first of which laid the groundwork for a true city. The second included a building spree that yielded the Marrakesh we see today, with its royal palaces, imposing Kasbah, and city walls. An array of entirely new mosques was built as well; the second rulers tore down the old ones because it was deemed that they had been positioned incorrectly in relation to Mecca.
With the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains to one side and deserts stretching into the distance on the other, Marrakesh was a natural caravanserai for camel-riding traders. It greeted weary travelers with hundreds of acres of lush greenery and a stand of more than 100,000 palm trees-an oasis better than any mirage could be. No wonder the Berbers called it the “land of god.”
Not everyone agreed with this praise, and the capital returned to Fez, launching a rivalry that, in many ways, continues to this day. From copper-topped Koutoubia Mosque to the 360-room Bahia palace, it’s easy to see how Marrakesh stakes its claim. And there’s still something for everyone here, from the serenity of the Majorelle botanical gardens to the electricity of lively Djemaa el Fna square, the souk of all souks.
Pirate’s bounty: Rabat
It is said that when coastal Rabat was made capital, it was to shut up Fez and Marrakesh both. Rabat was an old city, settled as Chellah in 300 BC and renamed Sala Colonia by the Romans in the first century. It was the Almohads who made it a capital in the 12th century-rebuking both former capitals in the process and calling it “The Stronghold of Victory.” The ruling Sultan ordered the building of the world’s largest minaret, the Hassan Tower, with a grand mosque and madrasa, to show his kingdom’s might-but he died and the tower was capped at 140 feet (just over half the height he imagined). It still stands today.
The sultan’s death led to the decline of the city and the loss of its capital status. By the 17th century, it had a new reputation as a pirate lair. As the base for Barbary pirates who called their territory the Republic of Bou Regreg, Rabat was the launch pad for countless sailing attacks on western traders for nearly 200 years. But the days of lawlessness ended when France set up a protectorate in the early 20th century, and Rabat became a port to visit-not fear-once again.
From its ruins of Chellah and Sala Colonia to the unfinished tower and lush French-Andalusian gardens, it’s easy to see why UNESCO named Rabat a World Heritage Site.
A Bloody Showoff: Meknes
While pirates were running the show in Rabat, Moulay Ismail had moved the Moroccan capital to Meknes in 1672. Meknes was not a new city: it had been settled by the Berber people known as the Miknas (who gave the city its name) in the 9th century and had grown steadily under three successive dynasties. But Ismail had a vision for something bigger.
He built a 25-mile wall, along with massive gates, lush gardens, and dozens upon dozens of mosques, earning Meknes the title “City of a Hundred Minarets.” It was also a city of blood: the “Warrior King,” as he was known, once adorned those new city walls with 10,000 human heads. Though legend of his barbarism endured, he himself perished, and Meknes was displaced as capital in less than a century. Marrakesh reclaimed the honor – at least for a time.
For the last century, Rabat has been capital, its seaside location making it both a practical and visually appealing choice. Any visitor is quick to choose their favored Imperial Capital, regardless of the tales that history tells. But this much is clear no matter which modern capital calls to you most: the pride of Morocco endures.
To enter Bhutan is to enter a world unto itself. Many have compared it to the elusive Shangri-La of fable, and the country safeguards its treasured traditional culture. With its doors closed to outsiders until 1974, and the flow of visitors still carefully observed, this kingdom of the dragon tucked between Tibet and India has preserved its glorious textiles, beloved national pastimes like archery, and its Buddhist serenity. From lush low-lying plains to Himalayan peaks rising a stunning 23,000 feet, its diverse ecosystems boast an epic beauty that is maintained with deep pride and the force of law.
All of this leaves the traveler with the indelible impression that they have, indeed, stepped into Shangri-La. But Bhutan is far better than Shangri-La: It’s real.
Buddhism-The Heart of a People
For most of the nation’s history, Bhutan was closed off not only to travelers from beyond its borders, but to outside cultural influences as well. It wasn’t until 1999 that the government lifted its ban on television, though it still made clear that programming must be consistent with the most abiding Bhutanese values, the roots of which are largely Buddhist. Having been secluded from so much of the outer world, the people of Bhutan are nourished by their inner spiritual lives, most of them practicing Buddhism.
Across Bhutan, you can see ample evidence of nearly 1,500 years of that faith on display. One of the oldest temples in the country is the Temple of Kyichhu, which has beckoned worshippers since the 7th century. With its gleaming gold roof and elegantly carved wooden pillars, it’s a jewel-box of a temple, a suitable home for the heavily-ornamented Jowo Sakyamuni statue, one of the most valuable artifacts in all the land.
Material objects are secondary to matters of the soul at Chari Monastery, established by Bhutan’s founding father in 1620. Perched on an emerald hillside, the monastery is an epicenter of prayer for Buddhist monks, some of whom spend up to three years here in meditation. At Tachogang Lhakhang, the rewards of such mindful practice are made concrete: The 15th-century monastery and its iron bridge are the realization of a vision that came to a Tibetan yogi who had paused at the riverside site for meditation.
At Chimi Lhakhang, the focus is less on the Zen of its monks and more on the love life of the local worshippers who come to this temple for its fertility-enhancing properties. Chimi Lhakhang was founded by a monk known as the “the divine madman.” He filled the temple with phallic symbols and used sexual innuendo to deliver some of the tenets of Buddhism. Though his approach was highly unorthodox, he is considered a national hero.
Dzongs-Protecting a Kingdom
Bhutan’s fortress-like dzongs are every bit as impressive as its temples. These massive complexes were positioned for defense against invaders, but much more was hidden behind the high fortified walls. Guard stations shared space with dwellings, civic offices, courtyards, and temples. Like the fortified medieval villages of Europe, Bhutan’s dzongs were miniature cities within citadels.
One of the largest is Tashichho Dzong, its sprawling splendor visible from Big Buddha Hill. In one form or another, a dzong has been present in this spot since 1216 and despite being damaged by four fires and an earthquake, the central tower has endured. Since 1968, Tashichho Dzong has been the seat of government.
Punakha Dzong used to hold that title, but what it lost in terms of political power, it makes up for in beauty, with its gold, red,and black colors, and gleaming statues filling a Coronation Hall, where the Kings of Bhutan are still crowned to this day.
Ringpung Dzong, with its 14 shrines and chapels, is considered an architectural masterpiece in Bhutan, and visitors may recognize some of its features from the Bernardo Bertolucci film Little Buddha. Though Drukgyal Dzong has no cinematic pedigree, the pale stone fort built to commemorate a victory over Mongol invaders is nonetheless evocative, with an eerie silence surrounding the ruins of this once triumphant structure.
Nature-The Greatest Treasure
Fortresses may fall in time, but Bhutan does more than just about other nation on earth to make sure its natural treasures are never lost. Nearly a third of the land is preserved for national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation areas, and nature reserves. About 60% of the land is forest that may never be touched, and where building is allowed, sustainable development is a state requirement.
The result is a nation that remains a paradise for nature lovers: crystalline lakes…verdant valleys…flower-studded plains…and, of course, the watchful gaze of the snowcapped Himalayas. With so many different ecosystems flourishing here, it’s no surprise that the flora and fauna is equally diverse. The 6,000 species of plants, from the iconic blue poppy to hundreds of orchid varieties, are joined by a veritable safari’s worth of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, monkeys, and Himalayan “blue” sheep. Overhead, nearly 700 avian species wing from treetop to treetop, soaring like the chanting of monks on mountain air.
Tiger’s Nest-The Symbol of a Nation
Nature, culture, and faith all come together at the monastic retreat of Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest. Ancient legend says that the 8th-century Guru Rinpoche, considered the second Buddha, flew through the skies of the Paro Valley on the back of a magical tigress looking for a place to meditate. He landed on the small outcropping of a cliff 2,700 feet above the valley floor. Despite its seemingly impossible location, the site became the home to a temple in his honor in 1692.
For more than 250 years, Tiger’s Nest has endured the cycle of seasons and powerful winds with little change, but two fires in the second half of the 20th century destroyed its main building. At the dawn of this century, the government invested millions of dollars in restoring it, spending five years to painstakingly recreate its beauty.
When it was reopened in 2005 in the presence of the King, it was a great source of national pride. The care given to the cultural treasure was a perfect embodiment of the Bhutanese belief that the dragon kingdom will endure as long as it preserves and protects its heritage.
“Wine cheers the sad, revives the old, inspires the young, makes weariness forget his toil, wrote Lord Byron, who was not only famed as a poet, but a traveler, carouser, and bon vivant. He came to this opinion glass by glass, having sipped his way across Europe, visiting the vineyards of France and the bodegas of Spain alike.
French vintners have been perfecting the art for some 2,000 years, creating the largest wine economy in the world. Spain may have a younger viticulture, but it boasts the highest percentage of land dedicated solely to vineyards of any nation on earth. And both countries are passionate about the wines they make.
Rioja
Over the millennia, rulers as diverse as Visigoths, Moorish invaders, and Napoleonic troops have claimed the fertile landscape of La Rioja for themselves. Today it is an autonomous province under Spain’s banner, a kingdom within a kingdom.
A sweeping mountainous plateau marked by seven plunging valleys and ribboned by the ebro and Oja Rivers, La Rioja is a land where geography and climate have conspired to favor winemaking. The mountains, covered in forests of oak, beech, pine, and juniper, offer vineyards protection from the fierce winds common to northern Spain, and help to moderate the climate.
Since at least the 9th century, when monks began tending vines, winemaking has been part of the local culture here, but it wasn’t until 1902 that Rioja was formally recognized as a wine variety, and not till the end of the 20th century that it was both awarded a certificate of origin (which guarantees its provenance) and then given the highest classification Spain allows.
Though best known for its reds, white and rose riojas are also available. experts describe classic Rioja wines as bold and complex, with unmistakable cherry and vanilla notes. What makes a Rioja so full-bodied is the employment of oak barrel-aging techniques inspired by the wineries of Bordeaux. Some Riojas are aged up to five years in barrel and bottle before their release. The result is a wine imposing enough to stand up to meat and strong cheeses, and, if you ask a Spaniard, to challenge any wine France can produce.
Bordeaux
However, Bordeaux – the elegant “Little Paris” on the banks of the Gironde River – feels no threat from other wine regions. With a wine industry dating back to the 8th century, Bordeaux blossomed fully in the wake of the marriage of eleanor of Aquitaine to the future King Henry II. In the 18th century, as it became the world’s wine capital, the city added 5,000 buildings of such beauty that Victor Hugo compared it to a metropolis-sized version of Versailles. In fact, “Little Paris” was the model for its (now) bigger sister: Napoleon used the building boom for inspiration in revitalizing the City of Lights.
As Bordeaux became a major port city, merchants were able to ferry the wine to the Netherlands and Great Britain, creating a global demand. Still the epicenter of the wine industry to this day, Bordeaux’s 13,000 grape growers and 10,000 chateaux together produce nearly a billion bottles of wine every year.
Like Riojas, the wines of Bordeaux vary by color, though it is the array of deep, rich reds for which the region is best known. Bordeaux reds blend two wines-Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot-and each vineyard determines the proportions. Vineyards on the left bank of the Gironde are Cabernet heavy, while those across the water favor the Merlot. Both yield earthy reds, good with lamb, beef, truffles, and tomatoes. The whites here, drier than the reds, are excellent with seafood, including the sweeter varieties, which also shine with cheese.
St. Emilion
Older still than Bordeaux and further north, St. Emilion is one of the most romantic cities in France. Settled since prehistoric times, it is best known for its medieval architecture, with steep, narrow streets winding between limestone buildings. Some of the streets continue below ground into tunnels and catacombs, once home to the hermetic monk for whom the city is named.
Emilion was originally from Breton, where he was credited with a number of miracles. His acclaim drew attacks from the Benedictine community and he fled south, hiding in the underground cavern where he would live the rest of his life. Pilgrims began to seek him out as confessor and as the catacombs became a destination, an entire religious community arose.
Within a century, the town of St. Emilion was making wines commercially, expanding private vineyards that were planted a good 700 years before. When the Santiago de Compostela through France became a major pilgrimage route in the 11th century, a robust wine industry tempted visitors to stop here. Though both the Hundred Years’ War and The War of the Religions both stalled the region, the wine trade never ceased completely; in fact, wine sales fueled St. Emilion’s rebirth in the 18th century.
Today, it is known for its reds, which most often blend Merlot and Cabernet Franc, with a few wineries adding Cabernet Sauvignon to the mix. Reaching maturity-and your table-faster than the Bordeaux vintages, St. Emilion wines stand up well to game birds, salmon, and nutty cheeses like tomme de savoie or reblochon.
Though you may now enjoy the best wines of both lands in the comfort of your own home, those who have followed in Byron’s footsteps to Europe know the difference it makes to savor these regional creations right where they’re made. Lift a fine Bordeaux to your lips while the sun sets over the countryside, or inhale the heady bouquet of Rioja in a Spanish bodega. Drink them while on tour with Gate 1 Travel!
Novelist George A. Moore once wrote, “A man travels the world over in search of what he needs and returns home to find it.” That’s a sentiment many of our travelers share after they realize that the same expertise which makes Gate 1 the leader in value-packed international tours also makes us the best choice for exploring the wonders right here in the United States.
Now in our fourth year of offering USA escorted tours, we’ve seen a dramatic increase in requests to book domestic travel. So we’ve created 7 more ways to see the world while staying close to home. Now more than ever, the only thing you have to decide is which marvelous corner of this land to explore first.
Join us on one of these exclusive trips and learn what thousands of Gate 1 travelers already know. Reserving even your domestic travel with us saves you countless hours of planning—arranging airfare and car rental, researching sites to visit and making sure you have driving directions, hoping you’ve picked a decent restaurant for your meals. Plus, our tour managers provide more endless insight than you ever would ever gain on your own. What’s more, our buying power with travel providers ensures you the lowest possible price. In fact, if you were to try to duplicate any of our trips on your own, you would pay far more.
2016: Brand New Tours & Grand Old Parks!
2016 is the perfect time for discoveries at home as we celebrate the National Parks Service centennial anniversary. The National Parks Service has been protecting our greatest natural resources since 1916, ensuring that the country’s pristine environments remain untouched, while still allowing visitors the chance to experience the wildest, most memorable locales on the continent. As Marty Seslow, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Gate 1 Travel explains, “From hiking in Yellowstone to viewing the mesmerizing the Bridalveil Falls in Yosemite, many of our U.S. packages feature can’t-miss activities that the whole family can enjoy together in the great outdoors.”
To celebrate, we’ve added 7 new escorted tours with multiple dates available this coming year. Several of these are national park-focused and all of them, like most Gate 1 USA tours, feature at least one treasure managed by the National Parks Service. From coast to coast, each offers an in-depth look at the best of what man and Mother Nature alike have created in our country.
Here’s a peek at our newest Gate 1 Travel USA tours in 2016. And to learn more and reserve your space, just click on the trip name to visit our newly updated website!
This tour begins with 2 nights in Portland, the most cosmopolitan city in Oregon. From the bustle of its Courthouse Square shops and eateries to the perfumed air of the Rose Test Garden, you’ll discover its urbane pleasures before diving into the state’s natural bounty. Follow the twisting Columbia Rivers Gorge as it cuts through the Cascade Mountains, and pause for a delectable lunch and wine tastings in the lush vineyards of the Willamette Valley. After a night in coastal Newport, take to the untamed sands in a thrilling Dune Buggy ride in the Oregon Dunes Recreation Park. Two nights in the artistic oasis of Ashland offers a perfect home base for exploring wonders like crystal-clear Crater Lake, one of the nation’s true gems. Bookend an overnight stay in Eureka with two visits to jaw-dropping Redwood forests, including the Avenue of the Giants, home to nature’s living skyscrapers. Then see towers of the man-made variety as you cross San Francisco’s shining Golden Gate Bridge to conclude your journey in the “City by the Bay.”
This four-state journey features an epic array of America’s most iconic destinations. Begin in Scottsdale, the city whose “Old West meets the New West” flavor inspired Frank Lloyd Wright. Then stop at Montezuma Castle, an enigmatic pre-historic Native American dwelling place, before seeing why so many artists are drawn to the epic Red Rocks of Sedona. Nothing does the 280-mile Grand Canyon justice more than standing on its very rim, and you’ll do just that, soaking in the breathtaking splendor before you. Vast Lake Powell is sure to make an impression as well. You will also experience a quartet of national parks, each with its own flavor: Bryce Canyon, with its fanciful “hoodoo” spires; Zion National Park, where eagles and falcons soar between towering peaks and above desert oases; Grand Teton, bursting with jagged crests and glaciers; and, of course, majestic Yellowstone, the very first National Park. Your discoveries along the way will include three human achievements as well: the Salt Lake City Tabernacle, Mount Rushmore, and the Crazy Horse Memorial—a wonder as yet unfinished.
The essence of old New Mexico awaits you as your tour begins with 2 nights in Albuquerque. You’ll visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center for a rich introduction to the history of the Pueblo peoples, whose culture will be on display throughout your travels. Then travel to the Bandelier Monument, where early Puebloans carved homes into the face of sheer rock walls. You’ll visit the “Lourdes of the USA,” the Santuario de Chimayo, a pilgrimage site in a town also known for its handwoven textiles. You’ll visit a family-owned weaving shop here to witness their artistry before continuing on to Taos. At the Taos Pueblo, you’ll encounter more than a millennium’s worth of Pueblo history, in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then cross the Rio Grande, drinking in truly spectacular vistas, on your way to Ghost Ranch, where Georgia O’Keefe lived and painted. Wrapping up your tour in Santa Fe, a town with over 100 galleries, you’ll see more than 1,000 of the painter’s works in a museum bearing her name. And you’ll visit the oldest public building still in use, the adobe Palace of the Governors; its doors have been open for business since 1610.
Texas holds a special place in the American imagination, a place where cowboys rode beneath open skies and oil barons found black gold deep in the earth. Start your tour in Dallas with a taste of history at the JFK Memorial and Sixth Floor Museum overlooking Dealey Plaza, the scene of one of our great national tragedies. Catch a glimpse of dynasties both political and cinematic when you visit the George W. Bush Library and enjoy dinner at Southfork Ranch, home of the Ewing clan of TV fame. After a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards where you’ll witness the commotion of a longhorn cattle drive, spend 2 nights in Austin, the Texan capital. Here, you visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park, and see where the President and his beloved Lady Bird lived. Next, your tour leads you to San Antonio, where you’ll stroll the glittering River Walk, and soak up enchanting Spanish architecture. Continuing on, you’ll pause at the Alamo, known worldwide as a symbol of bravery, before you wrap up your journey in Houston. Conclude your discoveries with a note of inspiration when you visit NASA, ever-reaching for the stars.
Country, rhythm & blues, and rock n’ roll—the roots of America’s music run deep in the south. Begin your tour in Nashville, where you’ll follow in Elvis Presley’s footsteps at historic RCA Studio B, one of the oldest remaining recording studios in the U.S. Then stroll along
Nashville’s Walk of Fame on Music Mile. Country takes center stage for a night when you settle in for a show at the Grand Ole Opry. (Be sure to keep an eye out for the next big star!) Next, experience the many musical styles of Memphis, visiting both the Country Music Hall of Fame and the American Soul Museum, here in the city where soul music was born. Next, immerse yourself in the lifestyles of legends. Stop by Graceland, Elvis’s over-the-top 14-acre estate, and travel to Indianola, in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, to tour the BB King Museum and Delta Interpretive Center. Then steep yourself in 19th-century Cajun culture, from Louisiana’s Frogmore Plantation to New Orleans’ jazzy French Quarter, where a chef will teach you the secrets of classic local cuisine.
Discover the rich cultural diversity and sweeping natural beauty of Michigan, starting with two nights near Detroit, where you’ll learn about the ingenious achievements of American inventors at the Henry Ford Museum. Then travel further back in time to the storybook “Little Bavarian” village of Frankenmuth, founded by German immigrants in the 1800s; its quaint covered bridge and old world carriages will charm you. After a night in Bay City, board a ferry for an enchanting trip to lovely Mackinac Island, a wooded retreat from the bustle of the world. No cars here—so you’ll explore this Victorian world on foot and by horse-drawn carriage. Continuing to Traverse City, prepare yourself for a cacophony of delights at the Music House Museum, full of antique nickelodeons, music boxes, and pipe organs – many of them in fine working order! Your tour draws to a close as you reach new heights—literally—in Chicago, taking in the views from 1,000 feet above the city at 360 Chicago (formerly the Hancock Observatory).
See where it all began when you trace the footsteps of America’s early revolutionaries in Boston. Explore from the Old North Church, made famous by Longfellow’s poetic account of Paul Revere, to the lush Boston Common and Public Gardens. Then head for the Big Apple, where a panoramic bus tour will prepare you for discoveries on your own in the city that never sleeps. You’ll also visit the majestic Statue of Liberty and historic Ellis Island’s Immigration Museum. Then pause to reflect at the sobering 9/11 Memorial. Travel south to Philadelphia, where you’ll see Ben Franklin’s favorite city and take in the renowned holdings of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Conclude your tour in the nation’s capital, home to America’s finest monuments including the FDR, Vietnam and Lincoln Memorials. And stroll the epic park that defines the heart of the city and the nation: the National Mall.
Explore the Americas with Gate 1 Travel at Unmatched Value!
There are so many other ways to explore the U.S. with Gate 1 Travel, from sea to shining sea. Just follow this link for details and to view our latest videos, and you’re on your way to enjoying Gate 1’s convenience and ease … the unmatched value of our buying power … magnificent and awe-inspiring destinations … and a comprehensive trip made all the more fascinating by our expert tour managers.
For the best way to explore the treasures close to home, a Gate 1 Escorted Tour is your ticket to a trip unlike any other. Join us!
