Category: Regions

MediterraneanSmall Group Discoveries

Dubai and Oman: Cultural Gems with Immense Wealth

on June 19, 2019

Today we are bringing you to two of the most popular cities in the world for tourism: Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and a country, bigger than the United Arab Emirates but largely unknown to tourists: Oman. Sit back and enjoy as we take you on a tour through some of the most sought after travel locations of the present. Experience tradition, culture and immense riches while you enjoy your escorted tour through the Middle East with Discovery Tours.

In Dubai, you will tour and navigate the city that is world-famous for futuristic architecture and opulent buildings, hotels and skyscrapers. Dubai brilliantly shows off its mix of old and new to travelers. Visitors will see traditional houses and minarets against a backdrop of shiny glass high rises, talk about a collision of past and present! You will observe sites that you have only heard about including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Island and Dubai Creek. Abu Dhabi is a short ride down the coast of the Persian Gulf and offers a look into the capital of the United Arab Emirates. In Abu Dhabi you will visit the Falcon Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace and Louvre Abu Dhabi all while Gate 1 takes you effortlessly from location to location.

Oman welcomes you with open arms into a culturally rich country brimming with incredible experiences. Visit places including Jabreen Castle, Wahiba Sands Desert Camp and Ancient Muscat, the capital of Oman.

What UAE and Oman lack in similarities they make up for in sites to see and scenes to marvel at. Futuristic landscapes, intricate mosques and ever-changing sand dunes in the desert all await you in the Middle East with Gate 1 Travel. Just pack up your suitcase and come along with us. We will take care of all the details.

Dubai, the 5-Star City:
If you love opulence, luxury and hyper-modernity, look no further than Dubai, United Arab Emirates. One of the most futuristic cities in the world, you have truly never seen another city like Dubai. Incredible glass facades, sky-high hotels and immaculate beaches with blue waters all await you here. This city was once a tiny fishing village and Bedouin port until oil production shot this city into the stratospheres of wealth. If you would have come to visit Dubai just 100 years ago, you would have found yourself in a very different place.

Entering the old city is easy as journeying from one end of the Dubai Creek to the other. The old city includes the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort, a realistic replica of a desert fort, and the souks, where you will explore the narrow lanes and tiny shops for excellent finds. The souks are the perfect place to look for souvenirs as well as a fun place to explore during free time. The new city includes the Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world with 160 habitable stories, the Dubai Fountain, with its delightful dancing waters with lights and music and a stop at the Burj Al Arab, the sail-shaped hotel that is a famous landmark of Dubai and boasts an astounding “7-star” rating. Take in the epitome of luxury and decadence that is Dubai and enjoy all of the entertainment it has to offer because there is no shortage of excitement in this bustling city.

Abu Dhabi, the City of Old and New:
Located about an hours drive along the coast from Dubai, is the slightly more conservative and traditional city of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. Dubai may be the more popular of the cities for tourists but Abu Dhabi is more politically significant and traditional. Dubai may be one of the most famous cities in the world but Abu Dhabi has plenty of things to see and is also ultra-modern. Abu Dhabi has a similar history to Dubai in that it became rich and developed within the last several decades because of oil discovery and is now unrecognizable from its former self.

Take a journey to the Falcon Hospital where you will visit with these intelligent birds and learn about the nurture and rescue efforts for the species. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the country and one of the largest places of worship in the entire world, housing up to 40,000 people! The mosque is stark white and looks beautiful during the day in the glow of the sun or when it is all lit up at night so charge up your camera no matter what time you stop by. Take in the art world at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first universal museum of the Arab world and enjoy a photo-stop at the Emirates Palace hotel, a very expensive, 5-star hotel that glows perfectly in the night.

Make your way to the ethereal “Garden City” of Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, located near the Omani border. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes several oasis areas, including Al Ain Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis, and archaeological forts, including Al Jahill Fort and Al Qattara Fort. The several water sources in the area mean there is much biodiversity to be found. There are also plenty of green public spaces for visitors and locals to appreciate.

Oman, Culturally Rich Oasis:
It may not be the first country on your bucket list or even one you know much about but Oman is a true “can’t miss” oasis. Referring to Oman as an oasis has two different meanings. The landscape of Oman contains a majority of desert with incredible cities popping up along the way, making these areas much like mini-oases in the middle of the dry, arid terrain. It also refers to the political oasis that Oman has become. Some of Oman’s neighbors have negative reputations in the US due to acts of violence and terrorism but the country has remained largely unaffected. Oman welcomes tourists to its country happily and with friendly faces and beautiful settings. Gate 1 Travel will navigate you around this land and take you to the must see cities and spots in this alluring country.

Jabreen:
This Omani landmark is located in the northeast part of the country and is located on your route. The Jabreen Castle was built in the 1600s as an homage to the grand European palaces of the time. The castle was constructed by the same man who expelled the Portuguese from the area in 1650, Imam Bel’arab bin Sultan Al Yarubi. Colorful paintings, impressive ceilings and intricate carvings all decorate this dreamy building. Continue on to Balha, most famous for its ancient fort with towers of unbaked bricks. This UNSECO Heritage Site is located at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar highlands and is adjacent to the Friday Mosque with decoratively sculpted prayer niche.

Wahiba Sands Desert Camp:
The wilderness of the Middle East welcomes you into its ever-changing landscape in the deserts of Oman. You will stay overnight here and in the midst of the desert sands. Your hotel is comfortable and has every accommodation you could need while you sit back and relax. Perhaps decide on watching the sunset under the stars and view the rise and fall of the red and white seas of sand that can rise and fall to over 650 feet. A perfect way to end the day.

Muscat:
The capital of Oman and one of the oldest cities in the Middle East is located about a 2 hours drive from the Wahiba Sands. This historic capital sits on the Gulf of Oman and is surrounded by the neighboring desert and mountains. Muscat will capture your heart from the beginning with its incredible views, beautiful waters and pristine sites. This city is also extremely safe and clean so you can enjoy an evening stroll without worry. With both Arab and Islam influences, Muscat has a unique culture that is reflected in the friendly and helpful nature of its residents. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the most ornate and decorated mosques in the world. Journey to the Muttrah Quarter, a section of the city that evokes a medieval charm. Here you will find winding streets and ancient buildings while sandalwood scents fill the air around the souks.

Explore one of the most popular areas in travel today with Gate 1. We will take care of all the details and you will enjoy an unforgettable trip to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman. Explore Dubai & Oman and live the experiences that you have could have only imagined on this memorable tour through the Arabian Peninsula.

Please Note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary.

EuropeGate 1 Connections

Italy: Beyond Venice, Florence and Rome

on June 15, 2019

If you think you’ve seen all of the great country of Italy, we have some new and exciting recommendations for you! Italia is no doubt one of the most popular countries in Europe and one of the first places many travelers visit. Your first trip to Italy typically contains a stop at the most famous cities including Venice with San Marco Square, Florence and its Duomo and Rome with its Colosseum. If you have not seen these cities we highly recommend them but if you are looking for something different, then join us on our escorted tours through the rest of this breathtaking country. Get to know the Italy beyond the canals of Venice and the culture beyond the delicious cuisine. Gate 1 will take you around the less-visited regions and show you what you could be missing out on if only visiting Venice, Florence and Rome.

Journey through the Umbria Region and see historic Assisi, home of St. Francis. Choose Southern Italy with Puglia and Campania and explore towns by the sea, delicious wines and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Perhaps you’ll pick the Adriatic Coast to see towns along the coast with unmatched beauty. Or perhaps the tour that includes Piedmont, Liguria & Veneto with Cinque Terre. You will visit a few of the serene 5 towns of Cinque Terre and experience some of the best food cities in the world.

Get a real feel for Italian culture and indulge in more of this expansive European country. Brush up on your Italiano, get hungry for gelato and prepare to cross some places off your bucket list while Gate 1 Travel does the rest.

Umbria:

The Umbria region is best known for the medieval town of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Assisi is located high on top of a hill and contains everything from sacred shrines to Roman ruins. This picturesque town will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time to centuries past. If you have heard of St. Francis of Assisi, one of the patron saints of Italy, then you have come to his birthplace. St. Francis was the founder of the Franciscan religious order in the town in 1208. St. Clare, the founder of the Poor Sisters was born here as well as St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows. Visit the main attraction of the city, the Basilica di San Francesco, constructed in the 13th century and a true highlight of your trip. This immense Catholic church is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites for Christians in the entire country. Be sure to take note of the impressive frescoes by the artists Cimabue and Giotto and sacred relics of the church while here. Walk through the Upper Basilica, Lower Basilica and Courtyard of the Friary.

Southern Italy, Puglia & Campania

Southern Italy contains enchanting, magical cities by the sea including those in the Puglia and Campania regions. These areas spread across the heel of Italy’s boot shape and continue to cities on the coast of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.

Bari is a port city on the Adriatic and has been a haven for traveling sailors and fisherman for thousands of years. Be sure to visit the local open-air market and check out the super-fresh catches of the day. Walk through the old city and view the Romanesque Basilica of San Nicola and the 12th century Cathedral of San Nicola Pellegrino. In Lecce, nicknamed the “Florence of the South,” see sights including the Piazza del Duomo, a 2nd century amphitheater and the Basilica of Santa Croce. Walk the 300 year-old cobblestone streets and have yourself a nice meal in a local trattoria or a gelato to cool down.

Visit the quaint town of Alberobello, a UNESCO Heritage Site and home of the Apulian traditional, dry stone huts known as Trulli. Continue on to Matera with roots connecting to the Paleolithic age and view the Sassi, ancient stone dwellings carved into the rock. The Sassi are believed to be the first human settlements in all of Italy.

Next is the region of Campania where you will explore Pompeii and Naples. Pompeii is a truly unique experience you will only have in one place in the entire world. Nowhere else can you walk the streets of a town that is forever frozen in time. This is due to the explosion of Mount Vesuvius almost 2,000 years ago that covered the city in ash. This ancient Roman city was buried in up to 20 feet of ash and had to be completely excavated to show what was left of the city below. The Temple of Apollo, House of the Vetti and the Forum are all fascinating ruins you will see on your tour of the ancient city.

Continue to the southwest to the city of Naples where you will take in views of the Mediterranean Sea at the Bay of Naples. Explore Naples from the Sorrento peninsula all the way to the Volcanic area of the Campi Flegrei, all of which are dominated by majestic Mount Vesuvius in the background.

Adriatic Coast:

The Adriatic Coast of Italy not only contains some of the places we already mentioned including Bari, Lecce and Matera but also Ravenna, San Marino and Urbino. Explore the towns that run along the coast of the pristine waters of the Adriatic Sea and find unrivaled elegance.

Ravenna was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire from 402 until its collapse in 476. This is largely due to that fact that Ravenna had a perfect location. It was centralized and very close to the water. It is well-known for its incredible Roman and Byzantine architecture and mosaics that can be seen throughout the entire city; so you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled! In fact, these countless well-preserved buildings and mosaics make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site of “Early Christian Monuments of Ravenna.” In this Adriatic city, explore the Basilica of San Vitale, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo.

Take the optional tour to the Republic of San Marino, said to be the oldest republic in the entire world, founded in 301 AD. San Marino is completely landlocked by Italy and is one of the world’s smallest countries. In this hilly nation you will be welcomed by the access gate that leads you to the narrow, winding streets. Walk around the city and take in the sites of the Public Palace, Cava dei Balestrieri and much more. You will feel like you stepped into a real fairy-tale between the tall castle towers, historic center and the uniformed guards in blue and orange just waiting for your arrival at the city’s gate.

Urbino is a city with a long-reaching history in both art and history. This village underwent a transformation during the 15th century and went from simple village to Renaissance hot spot thanks to the work of important artists, including the famous painter Raphael. If you have heard of him, this is his hometown and his house is still here and contains an active museum. Admire the excellence and enjoy this ideal environment for artists and dreamers.

Food & Wines of Piedmont, Liguria & Veneto with Cinque Terre:

This program encompasses a huge area of Italy that will you through the northern region of the country. From romantic Lake Maggiore to picture-perfect Cinque Terre to the food capital of Italy in Bologna, this trip is a true dream for foodies, romantics and nature lovers alike.

Start your journey in the Lake region of Italy at Lake Maggiore, a popular honeymoon destination because of its scenic beauty. Visit the islands of Isola Bella, with its splendid gardens and white peacocks and Isola dei Pescatori, or fishermen’s island, named for the main occupation here.

Arrive in Turin, the capital of the Piedmont region. Turin is also referred to as the capital of the Alps. This unsung city is filled to the brim with interesting claims to fame including being the home to Italy’s Royal Family, House of Savoy. It is also a true foodie capital with risotto and chocolate as local must tries as well as the birthplace of the aperitif. This incredible town will surprise you at every turn with countless experiences and new things to try.

Travel through the Piedmont region and take a tour through the wine vineyards of the area. Barolo produces the most famous and expensive wine made from Nebbiolo grapes. Sample Spumante in Canelli in one of the “Cathedral cellars” of the region. Choose which wine is your favorite and be sure to pick up a bottle to take home before returning to your hotel in Turin in the evening.

Luxurious and famous Portofino along the Italian Riviera, is a favorite among the rich. In this deluxe fishing village, you will find high-end boutiques and restaurants, huge yachts and a centrally located harbor. Find a cafe on the harbor looking out at the water and enjoy a beverage or snack in this picturesque scene.

If you have seen pictures of the colorful houses clinging onto cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea, you already know what Cinque Terre looks like. This enchanting region is made up of 5 centuries-old seaside villages; Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. You will travel through a few of these villages by boat or bus and see what these UNESCO World Heritage Sites have to offer. Be sure to allow time for lots of photos because you will want to remember this.

Travel through the region of Emilia-Romagna, the land known for balsamic vinegar en route to Parma. Here you will taste various local delicacies highlighted by the town’s namesake product, parmesan cheese.

One of the last stops on this tour is Bologna, a true food lover’s paradise. This city is the capital and largest city of the Emilia-Romagna region. Here, you will visit the traditional food shops and indulge in Bologna’s history at the city’s oldest food market, “Quadrilatero.” Enjoy more than wonderful food with sites including Piazza Maggiore, Accursio Palace, the Neptune Fountain and St. Petronio Basilica. This medieval city is sure to capture your heart.

Finally, travel to the region of Veneto, the land of prosecco, Italy’s sparkling wine. Enjoy a tasting before heading home.

Ciao and thank you for joining us in Italy. Now that you are an expert on all things Italian, it is time to book your trip. Let Gate 1 Travel take care of all the details of your journey while you travel effortlessly from incredible landscape to incredible landscape. Just show up at the airport and we will do the rest. Click here for our tours to Italy and get ready to experience the trip of a lifetime!

**Please note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary

#G1PhotoFridayLatin America

Genuine and True; Bogota, Colombia

on June 14, 2019

The capital and largest city in Colombia is located in the Andes mountains on the Bogota savanna. Bogota is responsible for the majority of the country’s tourism and is a growing force in international meeting destinations. Restaurants, monuments, shopping malls, museums, art and culture; Bogota has it all. Although very modern, this city is steeped in tradition and unapologetic culture. Be sure to visit La Candelaria, Gold Museum and Plaza de Bolivar in this enchanting city. Make time to visit a local market, pictured is Paloquemao Market. These markets are beautiful and very much part of the Bogota’s culture.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @michacart using the hashtag #gate1travel. This colorful scene picture was taken in Bogota, Colombia. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Colombia trips here! 

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Warm and Bright in Dubrovnik, Croatia

on June 7, 2019

You might recognize Dubrovnik, Croatia right away if you are a fan of the hit TV show Game of Thrones. It is the primary setting for King’s Landing exterior scenes. This location is perfect for television and GOT with its stone walls, well-preserved buildings, medieval and baroque architecture and coastal views. The Adriatic Sea looms in the distance of this UNESCO World Heritage city and beckons you to visit soon!

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @photos_by_heather_b using the hashtag #gate1travel. This coastal scene picture was taken in Dubrovnik, Croatia. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Croatia trips here!

#G1PhotoFridayLatin America

Down the Path to Cusco, Peru

on May 31, 2019

Cusco, Peru is one of the top tourist attractions in the entire world and this picture shows you why. Beauty, history and nature converge in this former capital of the Inca Empire and it continues to impress visitors from all over the world. At Saqsaywaman, where this photo was taken, you will discover ancient ruins of the citadel and its stone walls that fit tightly together without mortar. This incredible city is a must for any traveler’s bucket list and Gate 1 Travel has you covered.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @thetravelingredhead88 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This natural scene was taken in Saqsaywaman in Cusco, Peru. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Peru trips here!

#G1PhotoFridayAsia & Pacific

Marching Back in Time in Xi’an, China

on May 24, 2019

The incredible archaeological site of the Terracotta Warriors is an unforgettable experience. Here you will view more than 7,000 life-sized soldiers, horses and chariots sculpted in clay. Each of the soldiers have unique facial expressions and positions according to their rank. The soldiers likely also had brightly colored paint that has turned to gray during their years underground. These elaborate statues are part of a mausoleum for the first emperor of China and are thought to be created to accompany him into the afterlife.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @crimmny using the hashtag #gate1travel. This majestic display is in Xi’an, China. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s China trips here!

#G1PhotoFridayAsia & Pacific

Traditions of Tea in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

on May 17, 2019

Tea is an important part of the culture in many countries and Vietnam is no exception. While less strict than the rules of tea ceremonies in China, Vietnam has a tea culture all their own. Trà is incorporated into celebrations, medicinal functions, welcoming guests or for personal relaxation. Tea has been in Vietnamese traditions for thousands of years and continues to be a huge part of the lives of the people.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @cmpabroad using the hashtag #gate1travel. This incredible display of culture was taken in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Vietnam trips here!

AfricaGate 1 Connections

East Africa: Natural Wonders and Epic Wildlife

on May 12, 2019

The eastern coast of the African continent is a pure and largely untarnished region that not only contains some of the most fascinating creatures and thrilling landscapes in the entire world but is also not overrun with visitors like some of its more popular counterparts. Eastern Africa consists of sub-Saharan countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and the islands of Zanzibar, part of Tanzania. The region is world-renowned for its incredible landscapes including some of the highest points in the world, like Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Seas, valleys, lakes and coastal plains can all be found here as well.

The climate in this region is tropical for the most part but the average temperatures are slightly reduced due to the high elevations in the area. Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya all receive ample rainfall during the year and thanks to this, they have plentiful grasslands and woodlands that draw in some of the world’s most fascinating beasts. Wildlife is found here in abundance and there is no place on earth quite like it. Where else could you find zebras, gazelles, lions, hyenas and leopards all in one place?

If going on a safari is your dream vacation, visiting Eastern Africa is a must for you. No other place allows you to get this close to these majestic animals in their natural habitats.

Kenya, Land of the Wild:

Kenya is among the top countries in the world a life-changing safari experience. If seeing the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and Cape buffalo) is part of your bucket list, it is time to make it a reality in Kenya.

Nairobi is the capital of Kenya, the country’s largest city and most likely the city you will arrive in to start your expedition. Discover this gateway to your safari that is home to over 3 million people. Nairobi is one of the most modernized cities in the entire continent and has a plethora of things to see. Enjoy a visit to the famed farm of Karen Blixen, the author of “Out of Africa.” Continue to the Giraffe Centre where you will stand on an elevated platform and hand-feed the Rothschild Giraffes. This species of giraffe is only found on the grasslands of Eastern Africa. Here you will learn more about them and the breeding conservation being done to help this endangered species.

To the north is Samburu National Park, a fascinating reserve known for its strange and unique species including the beisa oryx and gerenuk. Learn more about the Samburu tribe that calls this area home and the difference between them and the Maasai tribe. While both tribes have their origins in the Maa language, the Samburu live north of the equator and embrace a nomadic lifestyle while the Maasai live south of the equator and are known for their iconic dress and culture.

The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most famous safari parks for spectacular game viewing and will not disappoint. Located in the southwest corner of Kenya, its name is derived from the local Maa language for which “Mara” means spotted. Spotted describes the land of the park which is scattered with thorn trees and dispersed with animals. See the stunning wildlife in the park including lions, rhinos, elephants, gazelles and hippos. The Masai Mara is a must visit to try and spot animals that are on your “Big Five” checklist.

Tanzania, the Safari Champion:

If you have already traveled to Eastern Africa to visit Kenya, you might as well stay for the underrated gem that is Tanzania. Kenya may be the country more famous for safari experiences but Tanzania easily keeps up.

Explore Tarangire National Park which contains the Tarangire River, the only fresh water supply for the Maasai people and their land during the dry season. Because of the fresh-water river, a huge diversity of wildlife comes to drink and look for food. This includes elephant, giraffe, buffalo, eland, lion, rhino and cheetah, to name a few. Get your camera charged because you will love taking pictures not only of the animals by the river but the distinguished baobab tree silhouetted against the savanna landscape. Take in this site because it is unique to Africa.

Lake Manyara is another location home to a diverse ecosystem that depends on a fresh-water source. At the lake, find monkeys, elephants and bright pink flamingos drinking from the water. If bird watching is more your thing, there are over 400 species here – so bring your binoculars.

One of the most important sanctuaries for wildlife in the entire world, the Serengeti National Park, is found in Tanzania. Welcome to the park that houses the largest concentration of animals in the entire continent. Wildlife may bring you to this park initially but you will be amazed at the amount of geological wonders, including kopjes, the inspiration for Pride Rock in the Lion King, caves, boulders, grasslands and savannas.

Uganda, Home of the Great Gorilla Trek:

Welcome to your gateway to one of the most unbelievable adventures you can experience in the entire world, trekking among the Bwindi gorillas. You have arrived in the rising star of Africa that is Uganda.

First, visit the Murchison Falls National Park, home to 100 mammal species and over 450 species of bird. Many important international visitors have traveled to this park, including Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt and members of the British Royal family. View this magnificent waterfall that is created by the Nile forcing its way through a gap in the rocks.

A large part of the Nile River is located in Uganda and joins Lake Albert and Lake Victoria here. Along the Ugandan portion of the Nile you will find crocodiles and hippos relaxing along the banks of the river in the sun and looking for food.

Another highlight of your time in Uganda will be your Chimp tracking adventure in Kibale National Park. Your guide will take you on a hike that lasts about 2-3 hours looking for the primates in the lush green forest. Spot these intelligent animals feeding, patrolling, hunting, resting and taking care of their young.

In Bwindi National Park, you will be on the look out for one of the gorilla families that call this park home. Your trek can last anywhere from ½ hour to 7 hours, depending on their location. You will be permitted 1 hour to watch them play, eat and live their lives. This is a truly unique experience and you will never forget your time with these incredible primates in their territory. If you love animals and enjoy once-in-a-lifetime adventures, do not miss this opportunity with Gate 1 Travel.

Zanzibar, The Spice Island of the Indian Ocean:

Zanzibar is not your typical African territory but this island is too fantastic not to talk about! The Zanzibar Archipelago is a small set of islands located off the eastern coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean. The main island, Unguja, is commonly referred to as Zanzibar. The archipelago is not actually its own country but rather a semi-autonomous region of the country of Tanzania.

Stone Town is where the majority of people visiting the island pass through and it is an excellent example of an East African cultural hub. Stone Town is also the former hometown of Freddie Mercury and his childhood home is still here. Swahili architecture, mazes of alleyways and historical buildings all await in this traditional city.

Take a guided stroll through the Jozani Forest, the only national park in Zanzibar, and keep your eye out for monkeys, chameleons and many species of bird-life. Keep on high alert for the rare red Colobus monkey and the even more rare Zanzibar Sykes’ monkey while exploring. This forest acts as a natural pharmacy and contains countless remedies. Many of the plants and trees you will see in this park cure a variety of ailments.

En route to the eastern coast of the island you will see Mtoni Palace, one of the oldest structures in the area; explore a lush spice farm, where you will learn how spices are used in medicine and foods; and visit the ancient Persian baths, built by Sultan Seyyid Said for his wife. On the coast, you will notice the incredibly blue water and the beautiful white sand beaches. Zanzibar is an up-and-coming honeymoon destination for couples and a true hidden paradise for anyone who visits.

Eastern Africa is a promising destination for travelers who love nature and it is easy to see why. Unmatched wildlife, photographic landscapes and natural wonders all await you in these countries. Africa contains some of the last unblemished ecosystems on earth. Nowhere else can you see hundreds of different species living their lives together. It truly is a powerful experience that not everyone gets to appreciate. You may even get to enjoy the company of a family of mountain gorilla, some of only a few hundred left in the entire world! Let Gate 1 Travel take you to Eastern Africa and we will make sure all of the details are taken care of. Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zanzibar are all waiting – it is time to see what you will find.

#G1PhotoFridayLatin America

The Icon of Two Countries; Iguazú Falls, South America

on May 10, 2019

Vast and glorious is Iguazú Falls. This huge waterfall system borders the countries of Brazil and Argentina in South America. The falls lay between the province of Misiones in Argentina and the state of Paraná in Brazil. The falls make up the largest system in the entire world and are a huge attraction for these South American countries. You can reach the falls from two main towns; one in Brazil and one in Argentina. The park is shared by the two countries and you can view them from either the “Brazilian Side” or the “Argentina Side.”

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @haydzarantz using the hashtag #gate1travel. This incredible display of nature was taken at Iguazú Falls, South America. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s South America trips here!

#G1PhotoFridayAfrica

Hanging with the locals in Boulders Beach, South Africa

on May 3, 2019

Boulders Beach is located on the Cape Town Peninsula and is a short drive from Cape Town, South Africa. It is home to some of the cutest locals in the world; the endangered African Penguin. A colony of the birds settled here in 1982 and have become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area since! View the birds within a few feet of their beach habitat and be on the lookout for baby chicks as well.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @slfashe using the hashtag #gate1travel. This adorable scene was taken at Boulders Beach, South Africa. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s South Africa trips here!

1 … 17 18 19 20 21 … 52