Category: Europe

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Small but Mighty; Vatican City

on February 14, 2020

The smallest country in the world, Vatican City, is surrounded entirely by the city of Rome. This city-state is home to the Catholic Church as well as the Pope and his clergy. The fascinating Vatican has around 800 citizens, all religious people or Swiss Guards, and qualifies for independent country status. In the walls of the city view incredible sculptures, frescoes and the Sistine Chapel, famous for the Michelangelo painting on the ceiling.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user rcphotosnyc using the hashtag #gate1travel. This majestic view was captured in Vatican City. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Italy trips here! 

Dubrovnik
EuropeSmall Group Discoveries

Take a Walk Around Dubrovnik, Literally

on February 14, 2020

To understand the civilized nature of those who governed the Republic of Ragusa—as the city of Dubrovnik was known from 1358 to 1808—look no further than the city’s motto. In Latin, it read, “Non bene pro toto libertas venditur auro.” Liberty is not well sold for all the gold.

But the liberty and freedom of Dubrovnik required more than these simple high ideals to protect it from outside influence. It also needed a fortified wall. And so in the 14th century the early founders of the city, fresh off a strained allegiance to the Venetian Republic and recovering from the Black Death of 1348, began work on a barricade that would grow and evolve over hundreds of years. Today, it stands as one of the largest and most complete medieval walls in all of Europe. So solid was its construction that it was never breached. And so perfectly did it help preserve Dubrovnik that George Bernard Shaw, upon visiting in 1929, wrote, “If you want to see heaven on earth, come to Dubrovnik.”

It’s easy to understand Shaw’s enchantment. His sentiment was likely an appraisal of the city’s narrow byways and incredibly preserved buildings. But perhaps he also should have written a love poem to the wall; after all, it was the skill of its builders that brought Dubrovnik into the modern age virtually unscathed. Even after the walls were complete, city dwellers rebuilt or maintained it as it aged. It didn’t take long for word to spread of the mighty fortification surrounding Dubrovnik; the city soon gained a reputation as unconquerable throughout Europe and—more importantly—in the land-grabbing Ottoman Empire.

History, however, had other plans. Dubrovnik fell to the army of Napoleon in 1806 and later to Austria in 1814. The city remained part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until that kingdom’s dissolution with the 1919 Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I.

The region’s next major conflict, though devastating to the Old Town, tested the strength of the walls like never before. Tragically, almost 70% of the 824 red-roofed buildings within the fortifications were damaged by the Yugoslav People’s Army during the 1991 Siege of Dubrovnik. In retrospect, historians have said that the ancient walls held up better against modern weaponry than the more contemporary fortifications around the modern city. Were it not for the strength of those ancient ramparts, much more of the city would have been lost. Since those dark days, Dubrovnik’s Old Town has been lovingly restored.

Today, visitors can walk the entire perimeter of Dubrovnik’s walls—with magnificent views of the red-roofed, stone-cut city below and the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea beyond. The walls stretch for 6,360 feet, just over a mile, boast a maximum height of 82 feet, and feature several towers and bulwarks.

Gazing over the rooftops of Dubrovnik provides a remarkable and enlightening perspective. You’ll have bird’s-eye views of the Franciscan Monastery, the Placa main thoroughfare, the charming Old Harbor, the island of Lokrum just off the coast and of course the rocky shore lashed by Adriatic waves. The smaller details you’ll observe bring the city to life, too: children kicking a soccer ball around a schoolyard, laundry draped high above an alleyway or the clatter of kitchen plates through an open window.

It’s a stroll that gives immeasurable insight into this protective and unconquerable wall. Still today, life goes on within its sheltering embrace as it has for centuries.

Walk along Dubrovnik’s medieval ramparts during our Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia trip!

Plitvice Lakes
EuropeSmall Group Discoveries

Plitvice Lakes: Gift of a Magic Queen

on February 10, 2020

Legend has it that some time long ago, the people who inhabited a dense forest in the Dinaric Mountains craved water. Their crops were drying up and they lived their days in thirst. And so one day under yet another cloudless, rainless sky, they called upon their magic queen for help. Hearing their plea, the merciful queen summoned the spirits to fill an earthen reservoir with water. The spirits answered with an abundant offering that filled the woodland basin to overflowing, causing water to spill over to form another lake down the hill … then another … and another … until a five-mile network of terraced lakes threaded its way through the forest like a glittering necklace.

Strolling through this spellbinding paradise of stepped lakes, you cannot help but feel as if you’ve found the key to an enchanted forest. More than a dozen lakes are linked by mossy waterfalls. The highest cascades are 230 feet and by the time the waters have made their journey from the first lake to the last, they have fallen 430 feet. One lake might shimmer a milky turquoise blue while another glimmers a green hue or a sludgy gray. It’s easy to imagine that tiny nymphs—or even the magic queen herself—reside in these woods. 

You will visit Plitvice Lakes during our Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia small-group journey. Like many visitors, you’re sure to be smitten with their fairytale atmosphere. And you might be quite satisfied by the notion that this watery wonderland was conjured into being by a magic queen. But you might also like to know that each lake’s distinctive color is created by minerals, microorganisms, and the angle of the sun. And that UNESCO added them to its World Natural Heritage List in 1979 for their “outstanding natural beauty and the undisturbed production of travertine (tufa) through chemical and biological action.”

These magnificent lakes, you see—if you believe the geologists over the storytellers—were formed with the passing of millennia rather than with just one incantation. As waters flowed over limestone and chalk, they deposited rocky barriers along their pathway, creating a series of mossy natural dams. Behind the dams, water built up to create lake after beautiful lake. A rich and rare ecosystem evolved around this astonishing string of azure and aqua-green pearls. The European brown bear, lynx, golden eagle, wolf, lizard, and turtle call the lakes home. More than 50 mammal species, 320 types of butterfly, 157 bird species, and numerous fish make this a hugely diverse corner of Croatia.

You’re sure to fall under the spell of Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes, the enduring gift of a magic queen.

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Magical Findings in Aït Benhaddou, Morocco

on February 7, 2020

The incredible village of Aït Benhaddou is located on the old caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh in the present day country of Morocco. Experience this striking example of southern Moroccan architecture and be amazed by the houses crowded together within the defensive walls of the city. This ksar, or fortified city, has served as the background for film and TV such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Discover the magic for yourself.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user Dan Shay using the hashtag #gate1travel. This beautiful view was captured in Aït Benhaddou, Morocco. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Morocco trips here! 

Central Europe Budapest
EuropeGate 1 Connections

Central Europe; Fascinating History in a Mesmerizing Setting

on February 5, 2020

Central Europe is a vibrant mosaic of beauty, culturally important cities and villages. Dense forests blanket large areas, rolling rivers meander through fairy-tale landscapes, and snow-capped peaks reach high into the sky. Among these natural wonders, some of the world’s most important cities evolved. Tiny villages flourished into richly layered cultural capitals that are the pride of the area today.

It’s easy to become enthralled by the awe-inspiring architecture and welcoming people that all you feel is gratitude toward all that made these cities and villages what they are now. However, the story of how Central Europe emerged into one of the most frequently visited places in the world is neither straightforward nor simple. Gate 1 Travel’s itineraries and knowledgeable tour managers help you understand the complexities of local history and cultural outcomes of war that helped shape these nations. After experiencing this area with our seasoned experts, you’ll return home feeling encouraged and inspired.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, once ruled by Communists with an iron fist, is today a vibrant and creative corner of Europe. Its political and cultural capital, Prague, is a scenic showcase of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and one of the best-preserved medieval cities of its size. So authentic are the narrow-cobbled streets of its Old Town they are often used to film movies set in the Middle Ages. Prague is aptly named the “City of a Hundred Spires” for the many towers that soar above the red rooftops.  Its Lesser Town, or Mala Strana, is a cluster of old burgher houses and the Old Town Square lures the curious with its magnificent Orloj. This 600-year-old Astronomical Clock sends out a procession of figurines with the chiming of every hour. Across the 14th-century Charles Bridge, which spans the leisurely waters of the Vltava River, the Royal Castle District beckons from a hillside. The former residence of Bohemian kings, this town within a town was the site of early Prague, a collection of stately buildings, tiny enclaves and pretty courtyards built around the grand St. Vitus Cathedral.

Hungary

If you were to continue down the Danube River by river ship, offered on some of our Gate 1 Travel River Cruise itineraries, you would arrive in Budapest, Hungary’s fascinating capital. The city gracefully straddles the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other. In Buda, sloping hills rise up to the fortress-like Fisherman’s Bastion, an ornate riverside terrace that seems torn from a movie. Not to be forgotten, the Romanesque St. Matthias Church and the Royal Palace with its wings and imposing dome.

On the opposite bank, Pest stretches eastward with a cosmopolitan air. Here, the mighty Parliament Building parallels the river’s shore. The sophisticated Andrassy Avenue, the city’s version of the Champs-Elysees, stretches to Heroes’ Square, a monumental square dedicated to the country’s leaders. To witness the spirituality of Budapest at its grandest, visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, named for the first King of Hungary. The Great Market Hall is lined with endless stalls of goods that provide an unparalleled snapshot of the city’s culture.

Poland

For many, Poland stands out as one of Europe’s most resilient nations. Its capital Warsaw illustrates the country’s resolve. This beautiful city on the Vistula River was completely destroyed during World War II. After the war, its citizens took to rebuilding their beloved Old Town exactly as it was constructed in the 14th century. Its restored cobbled lanes lead to Market Square, its heart, where the Royal Castle and Cathedral of St. John invite exploration.

Medieval Krakow dates to the 7th century. Many consider this one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Its cultural and architectural heritage spans the centuries, leaving masterworks of the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque eras in the Wawel Royal Castle District, in St. Mary’s soaring basilica, in the Sukiennice Cloth Hall and all along its vast medieval market square. A more sobering sight here is Oskar Schindler’s enamelware factory. Schindler employed more than 1,000 Jews in order to save them from certain extermination at camps such as Auschwitz, which is right outside Krakow.

Germany

Behind Germany’s position as an economic powerhouse is a nation that has tightly held onto its historic influences over the years.The city of Mainz, birthplace of Gutenberg’s printing press, to the castle-dominated town of Heidelberg reveal Germany at its legendary best. Picturesque Heidelberg is one of the country’s most romantic destinations, thanks to its pretty location between the hills of Odenwald and the Neckar River. Home to the oldest university in Germany, Heidelberg is dominated by the red sandstone of the Heidelberg Castle, originally built in the 12th century. As far as authentic historic towns go, Rothenberg is definitely Germany’s best preserved. Untouched by the wars that have swept through Europe over the centuries, Rothenberg even escaped the bombings of World War II. It provides one of the most authentic snapshots of medieval life in the world.

Other German cities were forever altered by war and stand today as triumphant testaments to the human spirit. Berlin today enjoys a free and transparent democracy; the Reichstag, Berlin’s Parliament building, is crowned with a see-through glass dome to symbolize the new transparent atmosphere. Art is embraced here, with the East Side Gallery comprised of 105 paintings on a mile-long length of the old Berlin Wall. The city’s Museum Island in the River Spree is home to five cultural institutions. The past is also well-preserved in Berlin at the 18th-century Brandenburg Gate and at the Checkpoint Charlie Museum.

Dresden also rose from the ashes of World War II, so painstaking was its resurrection, you would never know today that it was completely decimated by Allied bombing. This city of Baroque art has been called the “Florence on the Elbe River” for its rich artistic heritage and elegant beauty. From the rococo-style Zwinger Palace and gardens, to the layered exterior of the Semper Opera House, to the stunning Frauenkirche with its massive dome, the city’s elegance is truly unrivaled.

One of Germany’s most striking sights is the Cologne Cathedral. It is a huge piece of architecture with its double spires comprising the largest façade of any church. It was the tallest manmade structure in the world from 1880 to 1884, surpassed then by the Washington Monument. The cathedral stands on the perimeter of the Altstadt, where you’ll find ample beer pubs. In fact, Cologne boasts the most pubs per capita in Germany, an excellent claim to fame!

The city of Hamburg is an underappreciated gem. Situated on the Elbe River, which flows into the North Sea, it is Europe’s second largest port city. Its official name, the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, dates back to its time as a key trader in the medieval Hanseatic League and to its role as a free imperial city of the Holy Roman Empire. Today, it is a remarkably clean and graceful city. Its citizens embrace the great outdoors in several green spaces, while strolling the walkways at Alster Lake and exploring the fountains and gardens at Planten un Blomen Park.

The capital of Bavaria, Munich, enjoys a breathtaking setting near the foothills of the German Alps. The city is most often associated with Oktoberfest, but its highlights point to a rich history and charming ambiance. At the Baroque Nymphenburg Palace, Bavarian kings whiled away the summer and strolled through their extensive gardens. At Marienplatz, or Old Town Square, the splendid Gothic Revival New Town Hall takes center stage each day at 11am when life-size carved figures emerge to enact fabled stories of Bavaria.

Switzerland

The German Alps outside Munich continue on to form the majestic peaks of Switzerland. This land of chocolate, Gruyere cheese, and watches welcomes you with vistas and landmarks so breathtaking, you will fall in love upon arrival.

Three of its cultural centers sit on namesake lakes, each with a glorious alpine backdrop. The highlight of German-speaking Lucerne is its 14th-century wooden Chapel Bridge. This footbridge spans across the Reuss River, is the oldest truss bridge in Europe, and its interiors are adorned with 17th-century paintings, each one depicting scenes from the city’s history.

In French-speaking Geneva, life seems to revolve around its Jet d’Eau, a single geyser-like fountain that shoots up from the lake more than 400 feet. The green parks and promenades around the lake provide expansive views. Though Geneva hosts the most international organizations in the world, including the United Nations and the Red Cross, its Old City is home to 82 historic Swiss heritage sites. 

Zurich, too, enjoys a charming lakeside setting. This stunning city is often cited as having the best quality of life in the world so you know it’s beautiful. Fraumünster Church, with its five stained-glass windows designed by Marc Chagall, has been turning heads for centuries and its St. Peter’s Church boasts the largest clock face on a church in Europe.

Zermatt is perhaps the nation’s most laid-back resort town, if only because it is a traffic-free alpine paradise tucked on a plateau 5,300 feet above sea level. It is only accessible by a steep mountain tram. Long a base from which to ascend the nearby Matterhorn, whose distinctive summit is visible on clear days, it’s also where you can catch gondolas and a cog railway to some of the other peaks for incredible views.

Not to be outdone, St. Moritz is Switzerland’s other mountain resort city, nestled amidst soaring peaks at an elevation of 5,900 feet. This winter retreat for the wealthy of Europe is one of the most luxurious places on earth.

Austria

For almost 500 years, Vienna was at one time or another the capital of much of Central Europe, thanks to the Habsburg Dynasty and its descendants. They made Vienna their elegant center of culture, with the grandest gifts along the city’s famed Ringstrasse; the Hofburg Palace, Opera House, City Hall, Belvedere Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The monarchy built their 1,441-room summer home at Schonbrunn Palace, an opulent and sprawling estate. While in the city, be sure to take some time to experience Vienna’s famous café life, perhaps sampling the city’s decadent sacher torte, a delicious chocolate cake dessert.

While waltz-composer Johann Strauss called Vienna home, Mozart was born in Salzburg. His music still spills into these streets from concert halls, but it was the film, The Sound of Music, that put this dreamy alpine city on every traveler’s map. Embraced by lofty hills, the city is a tapestry of elegant buildings, lovely squares and manicured gardens, all watched over by the looming 11th-century Hohensalzburg Castle perched atop the Festungsberg Hill.

The city of Innsbruck gained its fame as the host of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. Like Salzburg, Innsbruck is home to a stunning collection of splendid architecture, including the Gothic Hofburg Palace and the Baroque-rococo Helblinghaus. The elegant symbol of the city, the Golden Roof, is decorated with 2,738 fire-gilded copper tiles.

One of Lower Austria’s most beautiful regions is the Danube Valley. Long a lure for oenophiles, it has produced high-quality wines for centuries. Charming wine villages, vineyards, and whitewashed churches dot the landscape. Amidst all this beauty in the riverside city of Melk, the Melk Abbey rests on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube River. The Baroque masterpiece, built in the early 1700s, features priceless frescoes and a library of thousands of medieval manuscripts.

So Many Ways to Explore Central Europe with Gate 1 Travel

Our Gate 1 Travel land programs take you to some of the most fascinating pockets of Central Europe, with some of the region’s best-value hotels keeping you comfortable along the way. Want to add some cruising to your journey? Join our European River Cruises along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers that provide an equally rewarding option, with the opportunity to begin or conclude your trip with stays in some of the exciting cities we’ve told you about above. The beauty of a European river cruise is the luxury of unpacking your bags just once and letting fairy-tale villages and glittering cultural capitals come to you. All onboard meals are included, and you’ll explore at the leisurely pace of the waterways. You can even take advantage of the freedom and value of our independent vacations, a great way to follow your own interests in the great cities of Central Europe.

If Christmas Markets are more your scene, Gate 1 has an array of itineraries that visit incredible towns such as Munich, Dresden, Salzburg, Krakow, Prague and more! A variety of stalls awaits full of decorations, gifts, sweets, mulled wine and warm food. Imagine spending the Christmas season in some of the most historic and majestic backdrops in the entire world. From the most famous and largest Christmas Market in Munich, Germany to the Old Town Square location of Prague, Czech Republic, there are truly unforgettable adventures to be had.

Whether you have eight days or fifteen, whether you want to explore one country or five. Gate 1 Travel has the ideal itinerary, each one enriched by the professional service, local insight, and cultural know-how of our attentive tour managers (unless you choose an independent vacation, of course). Join Gate 1 Travel in Central Europe, and enjoy unmatched discovery, unparalleled service and a value that no one can equal. We hope to see you soon in Central Europe!

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

London, England; City of Wonder

on January 31, 2020

London, England is the capital of the great country with history stretching all the way back to Roman times. With a plethora of things to do for every type of interest, London is one of the most popular tourist cities in the world. The River Thames, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Tower of London, Tower Bridge (pictured) and so many more sights are must sees in this capital across the pond.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user Daniel Magus using the hashtag #gate1travel. This beautiful view was captured in London, England. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s England & Scotland trips here! 

Did you know: Big Ben is not actually called Big Ben but “The Clock Tower”. The name of the bell inside is Big Ben.

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Timeless Elegance in Madrid, Spain

on January 24, 2020

Welcome to the capital of the country of Spain, vibrant Madrid. Madrid is famous for its culture, museums, plazas, parks and markets. There are many things that make Madrid unique including the incredible Prado Museum, one of the most famous art museums in the world, the Plaza Mayor, a historic, renaissance square laid out in the early 1600s, the serene Parque del Retiro, an ideal place for a stroll, and so many more! If food and drink is more your style, Madrid has some great options for you; sip on sangria, taste some tapas or chomp on a churro while in this fabulous city.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user Ranganathan Jagannathan using the hashtag #gate1travel. This incredible view was captured in Madrid, Spain. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Spain trips here! 

EuropeGate 1 Connections

Russia, Baltics & Balkans: Incredible Histories Amid Resilient Nations

on December 21, 2019

By their very geography, Russia, the Baltics and Balkans have been at a cultural crossroads since the emergence of the first civilizations. Valuable goods from spices and amber to silver and gold have been traded here, cultural traditions from clothing to dance have been shared, religions from Eastern Orthodox to Judaism have been practiced. It all converged and transformed here. Which is why these far reaches of Europe and Russia are among the most enlightening places to explore in the world. Although each country is very different, from the massive cities of St. Petersburg and Moscow in Russia to the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Tallinn in Estonia and Riga, Latvia to the city rebuilt from the ashes, Warsaw, Poland, comforting similarities will arise when traveling to these beautiful countries. Incredible sights, underrated natural landscapes and the warm hospitality of the people endure in their own ways while old-European charm, Soviet influence and Central European attitudes are all alive and well. Gate 1 Travel gets you to all these countries in comfort and style, and our knowledgeable local guides reveal the secrets and mysteries that make this such a captivating region.

Explore our north-to-south guide to Russia, the Baltics & Balkan’s proud nations and cities on Gate 1’s itineraries.

Russia

British Prime Minister Winston Churchill called Russia, “a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.” Of course, that was at the dawn of the Cold War, when the then Soviet Union operated behind a tightly closed door. Fast forward to the present where travelers are visiting this culture-rich country in droves. Russia may still exude an enigmatic side, but we love nothing more than seeing travelers unwrap its mysteries, whether they’re exploring this fascinating country by land during our Russia escorted tours or by river during one of our leisurely and eye-opening Russian river cruises.

Moscow:

When most people think of Russia, the imposing red walls of Moscow’s Kremlin come to mind. Once a symbol of intimidation and control, today’s Kremlin is a sign of history and culture that invites endless exploration. Inside are the remains of a czarist heritage and an unrivalled collection of architecture and art. Cathedral Square, surrounded by a stunning trio of cathedrals, is where all the streets of the Kremlin once converged. Nearby, the Kremlin Armory reflects of the imperial days, a breathtaking collection of royal crowns, embossed carriages and the world-famous collection of royal Fabergé eggs.

The vast Red Square is the center of culture in today’s Moscow. Its most recognized landmark is St. Basil’s Cathedral, a soaring demonstration of vibrant color and architectural brilliance created by architects Ivan Barma and Postnik Yakovlev. Its nine onion domes pose a striking profile and not to mention, an excellent photo-op.

In Moscow, even shopping takes on a glamourous style at the GUM department store, a stunning mall of shops covered with a glass roof. If you prefer shopping outdoors, Arbat Street boasts boutiques and cafes where artisans display their wares and Muscovites linger over Russian tea.

Art lovers will find many opportunities to admire some of the world’s finest works while in Moscow. The State Tretyakov Gallery is home to 150,000 pieces that span several centuries while the metro stations are famously decorated in marble, mosaics, chandeliers and statues.

St. Petersburg:

When Peter the Great ordered the construction of his northern city, he envisioned a gilded capital that would rival that of Europe’s cultural capitals; lined with canals, beautiful bridges and cultural institutions. St. Petersburg is all of this, and is often called Russia’s most “Western” city because of it. View the magnificent St. Isaac’s Cathedral and the Bronze Horseman, Peter himself, standing out front. Admire the neoclassical Mariinsky Theater, the last of its style to be built in the city. The Yusopov Palace is shrouded in mystery. It is here that, according to some, Prince Yusopov and some co-conspirators murdered the royal faith healer Grigori Rasputin after the prince grew concerned about the influence the mystic carried with the czar and his family.

The grand centerpiece of St. Petersburg is the Winter Palace, part of the city’s massive Hermitage Museum. During her rule, Catherine the Great, known as a great admirer of the arts, acquired one of the world’s largest private collections in her palace. After her death, the city ensured that her beloved art be shared with the people by opening the doors of the Winter Palace as the Hermitage Museum in 1852. More than six million pieces are held by the museum, with only a fraction on display, including masterpieces by Michelangelo, Picasso, Rembrandt, Monet and countless others. It is truly a must visit.

To see where St. Petersburg began, visit the Peter and Paul Fortress. This was the first structure raised in the city, intended to keep intruders away as Peter built his metropolis. Today, many Russian czars are entombed here. The spectacular Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood is dedicated to one of them, Alexander II. This splendid church was constructed as a shrine to him after a bomb was thrown into his carriage on this exact site. It is a stunning example of Russian Romantic Nationalist architecture and stands out for its extravagance and rich appearance.

Russian River Cruise:

A remarkable and culture-rich network of canals, lakes and rivers connect Moscow and St. Petersburg, and you can explore them during Gate 1’s Russian river cruises. These magnificent voyages explore the heart of rural Russia, calling on lesser-known towns and cities where smiling babushkas sell colorful nesting dolls, gilded onion domes peer out from behind forests and wooden architecture dots the landscape. The beauty of exploring Russia by ship is the leisurely pace you’ll experience. Unpack your bags once after you embark, then let the cultural and historic wonders come to you as you are whisked away from place to place. What’s more, you’ll travel aboard a ship that we’ve hand-selected for your comfort and enjoy the service of an attentive staff.

In Lake Ladoga, the island village of Mandrogi clings to rugged shores. Part of the Valaam archipelago, this reconstructed 18th-century traditional village mirrors simpler times when houses, or izba, were constructed from locally felled trees. Kizhi Island is an open-air museum and UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising more than 80 structures, including the Church of the Transfiguration, built without a single nail.

The 14th-century monastery of Kirillo-Belozersky in Goritsy was once northern Russia’s largest. Though it may appear to lie in the middle of nowhere along the Volga-Baltic Waterway, it is one of the nation’s most important and historic religious sites.

Two other cities are worth a stop along the Volga River. Yaroslavl is one of Russia’s Golden Ring cities for the role it has played in Russia’s eventful history. The 800-year-old Transfiguration of the Savior Monastery and its impressive Cathedral comprise the oldest structures in the city. Both the Church of Elijah the Prophet, with its finely wrought frescoes and icons, and the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonder Worker are both central to the city’s religious past. Uglich, also on the Volga, is most famous as a place of hiding as this is where Prince Dmitry came to escape the wrath of his father, Ivan the Terrible. Dmitry was found by Ivan’s forces and murdered on the spot where the blue-domed Church of St. Dmitry-on-Blood now stands in honor.

The Baltics

Estonia:

Estonia has long been sought after for its strategic location on the Baltic Sea. The capital of Estonia, Tallinn is a UNESCO World Heritage city and is filled with cobbled streets and 14th century churches. Tallinn was a favored post location coveted by its more powerful neighbors, starting centuries of war until the country finally achieved its independence in 1991. Layers of history can be seen at Peter the Great’s Kadriorg Palace while spectacular ruins are seen at the 15th century Bridget’s Convent rising along the banks of the Pirita River. In the Old Town district, the Toompea Castle, Gothic Town Hall and Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Cathedral further demonstrate the beauty of Tallinn.

Latvia:

The “Little Paris of the North” nickname refers to the capital city of Riga, Latvia due to its beauty, numerous museums and concert halls. This historic city is located on the Baltic coast and is a charming UNESCO World Heritage Site. Architectural styles such as Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical and Art Noveau can be seen displayed on buildings throughout the city. Riga Castle dates back to the 1440s while St Jacob’s Cathedral and St. Paul’s Church are some of the oldest and most valuable monuments of medieval architecture in all of the Baltic States. The Freedom Monument honors soldiers killed during the Latvian War of Independence and bears a symbolic female holding three stars representing the 3 regions of Latvia during the first republic.

Lithuania:

Flat landscapes blanketed with forests and lakes greet you as you drive through Lithuania. The capital, Vilnius, boasts one of the largest historic quarters in Europe, an array of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Vilnius Upper Castle has lorded over the scene for centuries and its adjacent Gediminas Tower is a symbol of national pride. The city boasts more than 40 historic churches and former places of worship. Among them, the Gothic St. Anne’s captivated Napoleon so much that in 1812 he exclaimed he wanted to take it home to Paris, France “in the palm of his hand”.

Poland

For many, Poland stands out as one of Europe’s most resilient nations. Its beautiful capital Warsaw, straddling the Vistula River, plainly illustrates this sentiment. The city saw dark times during World War II, as Jews were imprisoned in the Warsaw Ghetto. The city was completely destroyed by war’s end. After the war, its citizens took to rebuilding their beloved Old Town exactly as it was constructed in the 14th century. Today the restored cobbled lanes lead to Market Square where the Royal Castle and Cathedral of St. John invite travelers for exploration.

The Balkans

Romania:

There is much more to Romania than its legendary Dracula stories. Stunning vistas at every turn, soaring Carpathian Mountains, deeply held folkloric traditions, and beautifully preserved Orthodox churches housed within medieval walled cities combine to make it one of travel’s best-kept secrets.

The nation’s capital, Bucharest, has been compared to Paris for its emerging elegance, wide boulevards, and intentional 1935 replica of the Arc de Triomphe. Neoclassical buildings and Orthodox churches dominate the cityscape of this former communist enclave. Today, museums, opera, and theater set the tone for an increasingly creative cultural center. The most imposing building of Bucharest is the Parliament Palace.

Brasov, Sibiu, and Sighisoara have been lovingly preserved and each evokes the seductive splendor of Old Romania. Transylvania is home to the legendary Dracula, Bram Stoker’s vampire inspired by the towers and turrets of Bran Castle. You will also visit castles less notorious: the 19th-century Peles Castle and the 14th-century Hunedoara. Immerse yourself in Transylvanian culture in Targu Mures, once a rural village and today a small city rich in local tradition and Timisoara, the cultural center of the West.

Bulgaria:

Perhaps it is because so few travelers visit Bulgaria that it remains one of Eastern Europe’s most authentic and untarnished nations. Its capital, Sofia, lies scenically at the foot of Vitosha Mountain and is at the geographic center of the Balkan peninsula. The city has been inhabited since 7000 BC and is rich in Roman and Thracian ruins. Remarkably, many of its Bulgarian Orthodox monasteries survived centuries of iron-fisted Ottoman rule. Today, the National Museum of History chronicles its long past while the gold-domed Alexander Nevsky Church stands proudly as a neo-Byzantine symbol of the city’s enduring spiritual heart.

Serbia:

With rolling hills and enchanting villages, Serbia transports you back to the simpler times of the Balkans. There is much to endear you to its charms, particularly the three-kiss hello you will receive from the famously friendly locals. Along the changing landscape of the Danube River you will reach Novi Sad, a fascinating mix of Serbian and Austro-Hungarian culture and architecture. Enjoy an introductory walking tour of the city and view highlights including the Petrovaradin Citadel, or the “Gibraltar of the Danube”, that towers over the majestic river.

Skirting the Sava River, Belgrade is often thought of as the bohemian cousin to the continent’s more refined cities. It might have gotten this reputation because of the Skadarlija quarter, which has often been compared to the artistic enclave of Montmartre in Paris. Soak it all in as you browse Republic Square and the café-lined pedestrian zone of Knez Mihajlova Street. To get a glimpse into the city’s long history and architectural treasures, visit the imposing Kalemegdan Fortress, erected strategically where the Sava meets the Danube.

North Macedonia:

With its secluded location north of Greece, North Macedonia boasts a rich and enduring culture that has been shaped and sometimes tested, by its geography and its history. The nation’s capital of Skopje wears its pride with the confidence of any European cultural center. Ottoman Turks ruled here for 500 years and vestiges of their culture are everywhere, lending the city an “east-meets-west” atmosphere. Its historic centerpiece, the Kale, overlooks the city. Much of the city’s historic flavor also seeps through the stone lanes of the Turkish Bazaar, known locally as Čaršija or Old Bazaar. Home to some 30 mosques and a number of historic caravansaries, its stalls are brimming with colorful carpets, handmade crafts, carved dolls, and all the traditional makings of North Macedonia.

Ohrid is a true gem to be discovered in the Balkans due to its beauty and serene location. Discover the city, set beside a pristine lake and topped by a medieval castle, by spending some leisure time to walk along the waterfront, lay on the beach or walk to the Roman amphitheater. Take a tour of the Old City where you will discover the Monastery of St. Naum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a stop at the statue of St. Cyril and Methodius, the National Museum, Church of St. Sophia, the Roman Amphitheatre and much more. A unique boat cruise on scenic Lake Ohrid surrounds you with beautiful mountains, villages and beaches.

Albania:

The beating heart and capital of Albania lies in Tirana, known for its vibrant café culture and public art scene. Here you will view the incredible Skanderberg Square, Opera House and National Historic Museum. Step back in time with a special visit to the hometown of the country’s hero Skanderberg in Kruje. The Skanderberg Museum is a seven-level building with display replicas of armor and paintings depicting the battle where Skanderberg fought off the Ottomans. Also visit the Ethnographic Museum and a stroll through the Ottoman style Bazaar where you can browse antiques, gems and handicrafts.

Thank you for joining us on our journey through Russia, the Baltics and Balkans. If you want to further immerse yourself into the rich traditions of these areas, then a Gate 1 Travel tour is an excellent way to do so. Uncover the countless wonders of Russia, the Baltics and Balkans with us and when you do so you will close each remarkable day in comfortable accommodations with delicious cuisine and all the while gaining in-depth knowledge from local guides who call these destinations home.

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Picture Perfect Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Iceland

on December 20, 2019

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is a unique waterfall in Iceland because it can be fully encircled by visitors when weather conditions allow. Seljalandsfoss can be found in the south of the country not far from the Atlantic coast. This majestic and picture perfect waterfall drops about 200 feet and is part of the river Seljalandsá that has origins under the glacier Eyjafjallajökull. It is one of the most visited and photographed waterfalls in all of Iceland.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by @edifyphotography using the hashtag #gate1travel. This stunning view was captured at Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Iceland. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Iceland trips here! 

Did you know: You may remember the volcano underneath the Eyjafjallajökull glacier because it erupted in 2010 and wreaked havoc on airports across Europe for a few days!

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Canals of Amsterdam, Netherlands

on December 13, 2019

The incredible canals of Amsterdam could be considered highly underrated even in all their popularity. The canals were added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2010 and surpass the amount of canals in Venice, Italy. Perhaps this is why Amsterdam is sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the North.” Amsterdam contains about 90 islands that are connected by 1500+ bridges. Numerous historical buildings line the banks of these incredible canals.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user Scott Anna using the hashtag #gate1travel. This stunning view was captured in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Belgium & Holland trips here! 

Did you know: In the olden days, living on a houseboat in the canals was a symbol of poverty but now they are extremely popular and some are even located near the city center!

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