Category: Regions

Latin AmericaNews

Argentina drops visa fee for Americans

on March 29, 2016

Argentina announced on Thursday that Americans traveling to the country in the next 90 days will not have to pay the $160 “reciprocity” visa fee that has been in place for the last few years.

For travelers, this means South American vacations may become cheaper than ever. Earlier this month, Brazil announced a visa waiver program in preparation for the Rio Olympics. Tourists entering the country between June and mid-September can visit for up to 90 days without a visa.

Travelers will benefit the most in June, when both visa waivers are in effect, for a savings of $320 per person on trips to both countries, like Gate 1 Travel’s 10-day Brazil & Argentina tour.

According to an official statement on the embassy’s website, Argentina’s fee was dropped for stays of less than three months “in order to strengthen the relationship between Argentina and the United States of America.”

The embassy of Argentina also said it’s possible that the fee will be eliminated altogether after the initial 90-day period.

Latin AmericaSmall Group Discoveries

Buenos Aires on the Rise!

on March 29, 2016

The cultural capital of Argentina is one of the most beautiful cities on earth. Spread out along the banks of the Rio de Plata, Buenos Aires is a vibrant patchwork of inviting barrios, green parks, and welcoming porteños. If you’re like us, the more you explore it, the more you’ll love it. Case in point:

What’s in a Name? Theories abound about the origin of the city’s name. One tale tells of a statue of the Virgin Mary that was pulled from the sea after sailors believed that it helped calm a storm. The statue was placed in a local abbey and sailors often stopped to pray for Fair Winds (“Buen Ayre”) before they embarked on their journeys. Another legend has it that one explorer proclaimed “How fair are the winds of this land!” as he arrived for the first time. Regardless, English-speaking locals tend to go with the shorthand “B.A.” and travelers refer to it as the “Paris of America” for its European air and wide boulevards.

All the City’s a Stage. Of all the cities in the world, Buenos Aires boasts the highest concentration of theaters. The Teatro Colon is the centerpiece, rated a top international opera house. It is acoustically among the Top 5 theaters alongside those in Vienna, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Boston. The city also hosts several symphony orchestras and choral societies and even has a museum devoted to theater and popular music.

Hometown of a Pope. In 2013, Buenos Aires made international headlines with the election of Pope Francis, the city’s former archbishop. Before entering the seminary, Francis—then Jorge Mario Bergoglio—held jobs that were a far cry from Catholicism: He was a chemical technician and a nightclub bouncer. Known for his humility and outreach to the poor, he is the first non-European Pope in more than 1,270 years.

Birthplace of a Dance. The tango originated in the working class port neighborhoods of Buenos Aires in the mid-19th century. Often called the music of Argentinean immigrants, it is thought to be a fusion of ancient African rhythms and European music, instruments, and technique. In 1912, dancers and musicians from Argentina were traveling to Europe to showcase the dance. It wasn’t until it caught on in Paris that it grew into an international sensation.

People of the Port. The locals of Buenos Aires are known as porteños. It’s a term that came into use in the late 1800s as European immigrants poured into the city. Many settled along the shores of the mouth of the Rio de la Plata, which empties into the Atlantic Ocean just past the city. Just across the river, the people of Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, are also known by the name.

Endless Neighborhood Charms. Consider Buenos Aires a collection of small barrios, and you have a treasure trove of mini-cities to explore! La Boca rests along the old port; the 19th-century ambiance here is marked by wrought-iron streetlamps and pastel-hued rowhouses of blues, greens, reds, and yellows. The decorative arts along some of the quaint caminitos (or little streets) have earned them status as “street museums.” San Telmo is one of the oldest barrios. Cobbled streets lead to well-preserved colonial buildings, tango parlors, antique shops, and cafes. The tony district of Retiro is known for its tree-lined avenues, Art Nouveau eateries, Art Deco office buildings, and posh shops. And the affluent Recoleta district is marked by outdoor sculpture, museums, and the Recoleta Cemetery where Eva Perón is buried.

So Many Reasons to Visit. More and more travelers are discovering the sophistication and culture of Buenos Aires. The city is European to a fault. Its architecture echoes that found in Paris, Madrid, and Barcelona. It is a bastion of culture, brimming with museums, theaters, churches, and book stores. And vast green spaces dot the cityscape, from an internationally renowned zoo and botanical garden to manicured parks and plazas. Little wonder that it holds a highly ranked spot on Travel + Leisure magazine’s list of the world’s most desirable cities to visit.

EuropeGate 1 Connections

Unravel the Mysteries of Russia with Gate 1 Travel

on March 24, 2016

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 nation operated behind a tightly closed door. Fast forward to 2016, and travelers are visiting this culture-rich country in droves. And that’s a heartening trend for us here at Gate 1 Travel. Russia may still exude an enigmatic side, but we love nothing more than seeing our travelers unwrap some of its mysteries, whether they’re exploring this fascinating country with us by land during our Russia escorted tours or by river during one of our leisurely and eye-opening Russian river cruises.

Moscow: Steeped in the Past, Poised for the Future

sidepic-red-squareWhen most people think of Russia, the imposing red walls of Moscow’s Kremlin come to mind. Once a symbol of intimidation and might, today’s Kremlin is a bastion of history and culture that invites endless exploration. Inside are priceless vestiges of a czarist heritage, 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. Here, countless gilded onion domes gleam in the sunlight. The setting still commands awe and reverence and remains a testament to Russian Orthodoxy. Nearby, the Kremlin Armory harkens back to imperial days, a breathtaking collection of royal crowns, embossed carriages and the world-famous collection of Faberge eggs.

Remarkable as it is, Cathedral Square is often overshadowed by that other wide-open space just outside the Kremlin: the vast Red Square is the center of culture in today’s Moscow. Its most recognized landmark is St. Basil’s Cathedral, a soaring and flamboyant demonstration of vibrant color and architectural brilliance. Its nine onion domes pose a striking profile.

In Moscow, even shopping takes on a palatial air 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, too, find many opportunities to admire some of the world’s finest works while in Moscow, whether in the city’s Tretyakovsky Gallery—home to 150,000 pieces that span the centuries—or underground in the metro, whose stations are famously decorated in marble, mosaics, chandeliers and statuary.

St. Petersburg: Peter the Great’s Glittering Cultural Center

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

The grand centerpiece of St. Petersburg is the Winter Palace, part of the city’s expansive Hermitage Museum. During her reign, Catherine the Great, known as a great patron 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 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.

To see where St. Petersburg started, visit the Peter and Paul Fortress. This was the first structure raised in the city, intended to keep interlopers 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 he was mortally wounded on the site. It is a stunning example of Russian Romantic Nationalist architecture and stands out for its extravagance and rich decoration.

Cruise deep into Russia’s Heart during a Thrilling River Cruise

sidepic-mandrogiA remarkable and culture-rich network of canals, lakes and rivers connects Moscow and St. Petersburg, and you can explore them during Gate 1’s river cruises. These rewarding journeys explore the heart of rural Russia, calling on lesser visited towns and cities where smiling baboushkas sell colorful nesting dolls, gilded onion domes peer out from behind forested shores and magnificent wooden architecture dots the landscape. The beauty of exploring Russia by river ship is the leisurely pace you’ll enjoy: Unpack your bags once after you embark, then let the cultural and historic wonders come to you. 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 harkens back to simpler times when houses, or izba, were constructed from locally felled trees (which, as you’ll see, are in abundance!). You’ll witness a rich tradition of wood carving, lacework and pottery during your visit. Locals even made their own vodka, as you’ll see during a visit to the Museum of Russian Vodka. The region’s other major lake, Onega, is home to another treasure trove of wooden architecture. 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. Within its 22-foot-thick walls, eleven churches date to the 16th century, when the monastery was the second richest land owner in Russia. It is a fascinating spot brimming with history.

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. With a strategic locale on the river, it grew into a major trade center. The 800-year-old Transfiguration of the Savior Monastery and its impressive Cathedral comprise the oldest structures in the city. But 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. Alas, Dmitry was found by Ivan’s forces and murdered on the spot where the blue-domed Church of St. Dmitry-on-Blood now stands.

Explore More of this Enriching Region

sidepic-tallinnGate 1 Travel lets you combine your exploration with a visit to four delightful Baltic nations whose histories are intertwined with Mother Russia. Visit the Estonian capital of Tallinn, beautifully set on the Gulf of Finland and rich in medieval splendor. The nearby splendid Kadriorg Palace was built by Peter the Great for Catherine I. The Latvian capital of Riga, at the mouth of the Dougava River as it spills into the Gulf of Riga, is a stunning collection of architecture that dates back to the Romanesque period and spans all the way to early 20th-century Art Nouveau. In the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, explore what many call the “Jerusalem of Lithuania” for its rich Jewish heritage. And in Poland, tour the breathtaking capital, Warsaw; its historic quarter was painstakingly rebuilt after its complete destruction in World War II. All four of these capitals boast remarkably preserved Old Towns that have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their authenticity and cultural importance.

Gate 1’s Russia: Complete Comfort and Unmatched Value

You already know that Gate 1 Travel gives you more of the world for less. Our strong presence in Russia ensures that we can arrange a rich array of features at a value that’s sure to surprise you. What’s more, we never compromise on quality. Because we know Russia so well and have been bringing travelers here for so long, you’ll enjoy the best available hotels and river ships. Plus, you’ll take in all the nuances and rich traditions of the region with help from our exemplary and insightful English-speaking Tour Managers.

We invite you to join Gate 1 in Russia, and unravel its mysteries for yourself!

EuropeTravel Tips

Russia Entry Requirements

on March 23, 2016

International Entry & Visa Requirements for U.S. Passport Holders

Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates.

Russia – Visa required. The visa application process requires an application form, one passport-sized photo, your trip confirmation from Gate 1, a Visa Support Letter (VSL) also provided by Gate 1, and a processing fee. Two days following your initial booking and deposit, you will receive complete information via email about obtaining a Visa Support Letter (VSL) and a visa to Russia. Visas services for the Embassy of the Russian Federation are managed by Invisa Logistics Services at their Visa Center, 1680 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.Tel. (202) 827-0895; Fax (202) 827-0896. All applicants must first complete an online Visa Application Form at http://visa.kdmid.ru and then either appear in person at the Visa Center ($33 fee in addition to the Consular visa fees) or submit their application via a visa service. Click here for details. Norwegian Cruise Lines® passengers do not need a visa if arranging shore excursions or car service directly with the cruise line, otherwise regular visa rules above apply. Alternatively, you may obtain a visa through a fee-based service such as GEN VISA. Please note that GEN VISA is unable to assist passengers who choose to apply for their visas directly.

Latin AmericaSmall Group Discoveries

Into Patagonia!

on March 22, 2016

There’s more to its sheer magnificence than meets the eye

For those who think that the world has run out of wild, unspoiled places, there’s Patagonia. Here, massive walls of granite huddle around emerald-green valleys. Crystalline waterfalls cascade into babbling brooks and rivers. Glaciers crawl into turquoise lakes, sculpting landscapes in their path.

It’s easy to forget that a rich history has unfolded in places of such beauty, that such a stunning backdrop has been a breathtaking stage to discovery and drama. In the spirit of insight that only a Discovery Tours small group can provide, we’re delighted to share some of it with you here.

There Be Giants

Ferdinand Magellan first brought this splendid part of the world to Europe’s attention when he landed on its shores in 1520. No doubt the magnificent beauty of the land was breathtaking to him and his crew. But you might imagine that its towering rock massifs and labyrinthine waterways were a bit intimidating.

It’s believed that one of Magellan’s first human encounters was with the Tehuelches. Members of this indigenous tribe were much taller than the Europeans of Magellan’s day, and they wore oversized leather moccasins that left larger-than-life footprints on beaches and in marshes. Legend tells us that when the Spanish explorers first saw these footprints, they thought they had landed in a land of giants. They noted in their journals that they had discovered the land of patagón, or “big foot.” The name stuck, and even maps of the New World drawn up after those first voyages depicted this largely uncharted area as regio gigantum, or “region of the giants.”

Later expeditions proved that the indigenous people of this newfound land were not literal giants, though at 6-foot-6, they did tower over Europeans. Still, everything here is gargantuan and dwarfs any human, no matter their shoe size. Vast plains stretch to forever. Monolithic rock faces reach to the heavens. Glaciers advance and recede over landscapes like icy sloths. And serpentine waterways wind their way through it all, coursing past fertile shores and feeding forests of exotic lenga and coihue trees and ferns. It must have seemed a lost world to those first explorers, far removed from anything they had ever witnessed. And so it is for today’s travelers, too.

Darwin Explores and Europe Expands

Though known mostly for his Galapagos Islands exploration and subsequent theories of evolution, Charles Darwin spent his early days collecting and cataloguing rocks and local species in Patagonia. His colleague Robert FitzRoy—a scientist and vice admiral of the Royal Navy—had invited him in 1831 to accompany a voyage on the HMS Beagle to chart South America’s coast. During their time in Patagonia, the young Darwin not only gathered substantial insect and marine samples; he also became fascinated by fossils and explored inland with local gauchos to pursue his curiosities further.

While Darwin was busily collecting samples, Mapuche nomads (a collection of indigenous tribes) were migrating into Patagonia from the north. They settled throughout the region to raise cattle or—with Europeans gaining more control and more land—to steal cattle from settlers. As the decades unfolded, conflicts erupted, with concerns from Argentina that the Mapuche would ally themselves with Chile, which seemed more sympathetic to tribal causes. At one point, Argentina even dug a huge trench and erected watchtowers—a barricade known as the Zanja de Alsina—to deflect cattle raids on Buenos Aires.

By 1870, Chile had established its authority in the western half of Patagonia by founding the city of Punta Arenas. As for Argentina, tensions with the Mapuche rose to the point where they marched into the eastern regions and called them their own, a conflict known as the Conquest of the Desert. It wasn’t until the beginning of the 20th century that a firm Patagonian border was agreed to between Chile and Argentina; by then, the British had formed some Welsh settlements in search of gold. The Crown stepped in to mediate any remaining dispute.

Priceless Natural Treasures Preserved

The 20th century ushered in the modern development of Patagonia—though, truth be told, it remains one of the least developed parts of the world, thanks to both local and international preservation efforts. The Argentinean outpost town of El Calafate, once a place for wool traders to simply hang their hats for a few days, was officially founded in 1927 to bring attention to settlement opportunities in the region. To be sure, it must have been very tempting to live in such a pristine place, with Lago Argentino, the country’s largest freshwater lake, right outside your door.

Little did the locals know that just ten years later, in 1937, the Perito Moreno Glacier would attract international interest among the pre-war leisure set. As the crowds grew in number, it became clear that this unspoiled region was at risk, and so the Perito Moreno National Park was established. Its massive glacier spills into Lago Argentino and is a remarkable sight to behold: a glistening three miles wide and up to 240 feet tall, almost as high as a football field is long. It is the largest ice cap outside Antarctica and Greenland and is actually growing year to year.

Just across the border in Chile, the rock-wall massifs of Torres del Paine National Park reach to the sky like so many fingers. The world was introduced to these spectacularly jagged mountains by British travel writer Lady Florence Dixie, who in 1880 described three particular granite towers as “Cleopatra’s Needles.” She and her party could well have been the first foreign tourists to visit. You can be sure that many more followed, including curious scientists, geologists, and adventurers. Since 1978, the park’s 700 square miles have been protected as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Cleopatra’s Needles and the park’s countless other granite pillars form massive rings around the great Patagonian Steppe. Many have compared the visual effect of these natural walls to that of a mighty cathedral. One thing is certain: their transporting beauty is made more transcendent by the park’s azure lakes, emerald forests, thundering waterfalls, and ice-blue glaciers.

A History as Grand as Its Setting

History, indeed, does whisper within this spectacular setting. We invite you to peel back its layers in a Discovery Tours small group.

Learn more about our South American Glaciers, Forests & Lakes trip here!

Latin AmericaSmall Group Discoveries

A Cruise to the Ends of the Earth

on March 15, 2016

The southern tip of South America—part Chile, part Argentina—is a wilderness untamed. A tapestry of lush archipelagos…soaring mountainous massifs reaching to the heavens…hulking glaciers spilling into the sea…a lacework of channels, rivers, inlets, and streams. Much of it remains as pristine as when Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan came upon it in 1520. Our small-group Discovery Tour, South American Glaciers, Forests & Lakes, explores its spellbinding beauty just as he did—by ship—on a four-night cruise.

Of course, you’ll enjoy a few more comforts than Magellan did. We’ve arranged your passage on a small expedition ship, the M/V Stella Australis. This technically sophisticated vessel was designed specifically to explore these waters, equipped with sturdy Zodiac craft that can take us ashore to experience the wilderness up close. What’s more, its crew is intimately familiar with local conditions and currents, knowing the most magnificent spots to drop anchor. On board, a private cabin provides homey comfort with large picture windows, so you won’t miss a thing. The restaurant and three lounges are perfect gathering places to compare your discoveries with fellow travelers and to sit in on a lecture by one of the onboard naturalists.

After our 8-day exploration by land, we head to Punta Arenas, embarkation point for the cruise of a lifetime into the breathtaking Strait of Magellan and the vast unspoiled archipelago of Tierra del Fuego.

Viewed on a map, the Strait is a wide, V-shaped spine connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Countless other waterways stretch and splinter off of it to form narrow fjords, channels, and bays. One of its most breathtaking spots is the spectacular Almirantazgo Sound, an astonishing deep-cut fjord that leads to the pristine Ainsworth Bay.

As you might imagine, the waterways of Patagonia are fed from many sources. The two most significant are the tides of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Countless tendrils of rivers and streams also feed the channels and bays as they cascade down mountainous slopes and through sub-polar forests. But in Ainsworth Bay, there’s ample evidence of a glacial source. The Marinelli Glacier, part of Alberto de Agostini National Park, spills down from the Darwin Mountain Range, its ice melt feeding the bay. It’s a majestic and pristine sight akin to glimpsing the Ice Age, made all the more wondrous and primitive by the colony of elephant seals that sometimes whiles away the days here.

Elephant seals aren’t the only residents in the neighborhood. Back on the Tuckers Islets, Magellan Penguins waddle and mingle and dive into the chilly waters for lunch. This species is only found in the southern hemisphere, as our onboard naturalists are sure to tell us. Our Zodiac craft brings us closer to their perch so we can have a look and say hello.

Our expedition ship also takes us into the legendary Beagle Channel. Only small ships like ours are allowed in this narrow strait named for the HMS Beagle, which surveyed these waters in the 1800s under the supervision of Charles Darwin. In his notebook, Darwin wrote of the “many glaciers beryl blue.” He may well have been referring to Pia Glacier, a massive tongue of ice weaving through its eponymous fjord. Or perhaps he had the entirety of Glacier Alley in mind, a spectacular stretch lined with towering walls of ice.

At Wulaia Bay, which tucks into Isla Navarino, some fascinating stonework remains from the Yamana people. These aborigines called this area home for millennia. It’s fascinating to explore their archaeological site and be reminded that humans once eked out a life in this deep and remote wilderness. And speaking of remote, there is perhaps no more far-flung place than Cape Horn National Park, the “end of the earth.” Its fantastic setting—1,394 feet high on a rocky promontory overlooking endless ocean that stretches all the way to Antarctica–takes the breath away.

Sailing through the Chilean fjords and Tierra del Fuego affords sweeping vistas of some of the world’s most spellbinding natural treasures. Of course, broad-stroke views—like an epic canvas—only reveal so much. A closer, more examined look can inspire just as much wonder, which is why we’re so excited that the crew of our ship accompanies travelers on several walking excursions into this incredible wilderness. It’s an enchanting way to experience Patagonia, putting foot to earth and following pastoral pathways. Everywhere, the shores around us are blanketed by Magellan Forests, the southernmost forests in the world. These sub-polar forests are young, a mere 10,000 years; their clusters of lengas, canelos, ferns, and other endemic flora has been growing since glaciers began their retreat.

An enriching and educational cruise into the wild, stunning vistas of soaring mountains and “blue beryl” glaciers, unforgettable wildlife, and invigorating walks to a Patagonian wonderland. You can see why we’re so thrilled to offer this incredible itinerary with this fantastic cruise at its centerpiece!

Ireland
EuropeSignatures

Wake up in a castle on the Emerald Isle

on March 10, 2016

St. Patrick’s Day is almost upon us, and the Signature Collection team is dreaming of rolling green hills and lakeside Irish castles.

Ireland is one of those rare places that combines rural charm, traditions and picturesque landscapes with easy access to modern conveniences. We try to build this unique Irish quality into every aspect of our Ireland experience. We stay in centuries-old castles, like the Lough Eske Hotel & Spa in Donegal, and sprawling manor estates, like the Glenlo Abbey Hotel, nestled between rugged Connemara and vibrant Galway.

In Dublin, you’ll wake up in the ultra-modern Marker Hotel, and spend the day immersed in centuries of history, and spend your evenings enjoying the fabulous restaurants, vibrant nightlife and friendly pubs of the Irish capital.

We’ll visit one of Ireland’s award-winning cooking schools, run by a noted Irish chef, where we’ll create traditional Irish soda bread & scones. Our freshly baked breads will pair perfectly with our tasty country lunch & homemade jams.

After standing in awe of the 700-foot-tall Cliffs of Moher overlooking the crashing surf of the Atlantic, we’ll indulge in an exclusive evening of Irish music in an intimate country setting on the shores of Galway Bay, where renowned musicians teach us about authentic Irish music.

Indulge in a truly unforgettable Irish experience with Signature Collection’s 14 Day Deluxe Ireland, and subscribe to the Signature newsletter on our homepage for the latest deals from Signature Collection.

EuropeSignatures

5 Best Cities to Spend St. Patrick’s Day

on March 9, 2016

Cities like New York, Chicago and Boston have among the biggest Irish pride parades in the world, but here are 5 other cities with bucket-list worthy St. Paddy’s Day celebrations.

5. Philadelphia

One of the most Irish cities in the country, Philly’s parade has been going strong since 1771, second only to New York and older than America itself! The Philly Phanatic keeps the green going all year long, but Philadelphians prepare for their parade a weekend in advance, dubbed “St. Practice Day”. Revel like a local on the annual Erin Express, a pub crawl sampling 20 or more of the city’s best bars.

4. Cabo Roig, Spain

The biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebration in Spain is in Cabo Roig, known for its Celtic history (Cabo Roig means “Bay of Scots”). Observe the parade from a cafe on the main thoroughfare, then celebrate into the night with contests, karaoke and flamenco dancing.

3. Erin, Tennessee

This tiny, appropriately named town of 1,300 residents boasts one of the largest St. Paddy’s celebrations south of Chicago. The weeklong event includes a carnival, demolition derby, “Shamrock Showdown”, a leprechaun parade, and a Celtic music concert.

2. Davenport, IA

This Quad City parade is the only bi-state parade in the country, drawing crowds of over 10,000 people along the parade route across the Mississippi river between Rock Island, Illinois and Davenport, Iowa. Join the post-parade bash following the Grand Parade for Irish dancing, music & merriment.

1. Montserrat, West Indies

Ireland’s huge diaspora has led to some amazing cultural fusions around the world. Montserrat’s week-long St. Patrick’s Festival coincides with the commemoration of a thwarted slave uprising, and features African & Irish musical performances, a freedom run, and a feast.

 

EuropeNewsSignatures

Scones & soda bread: your guide to authentic St. Patrick’s Day treats

on March 7, 2016

March 17th is right around the corner, and we’re turning the Gate 1 Travel Blog green this week ahead of St. Patrick’s Day. On Signature Collection’s Deluxe Ireland tour, we head to one of Ireland’s award-winning cooking schools, run by a noted Irish chef, where we learn the secrets of creating traditional Irish soda bread and scones. A hands-on baking experience is followed by a tasty country lunch, complete with your freshly baked bread and scones, accompanied by homemade jams. The recipe, of course, yours to take home.

Today, we’ve compiled the best recipes from across the web to help you prepare for your next adventure on the Emerald Isle!

Authentic Irish scones

Soda Scone – popular in Ulster, soda scones are made with baking soda-leavened flour for a dense texture. Find the recipe here.

Potato “tattie” scones are enjoyed in Ulster, Scotland and New Zealand. Food.com has a recipe for the Irish version, known as fadge.

Griddle scones – these delicious, pancake-like biscuits are cooked on a stove top rather than baked. Epicurious shows us how to make them with a tasty golden crust.

Savory scones come in all varieties, containing or topped with different combinations of cheese, bacon and onion. This recipe by Kitchen Confidante calls for gruyere, prosciutto & green onion.

Traditional Irish soda bread

The history of Irish soda bread is pretty complicated – it was first developed by the American Indians, and adopted by the Irish later as the cheapest bread to make during lean times.

The Food Network’s soda bread includes orange zest and dried currants, sometimes called “spotted dog” soda bread. You can find a more traditional recipe here.

Signature Collection’s Deluxe Ireland package is Ireland like you’ve never experienced it before, including private tours of Trinity College Dublin and Kylemore Abbey, and a 9-course Titanic dinner in Belfast. Book by June 17 and save on your next Irish excursion!

EuropeMediterranean

Top 5 Reasons to Tour Turkey

on March 4, 2016

Welcome to Turkey, one of Gate 1 Travel’s most popular destinations. Here are a few highlights from this fascinating country:

  1. Istanbul

A city straddling two continents, Istanbul has been a cosmopolitan hub since its founding in 660 BC. See the magnificent Hagia Sofia, stroll the Galata Bridge, or strike a bargain on pashminas, gold bracelets or carpets in the famous Grand Bazaar.

2. Ruins

“The remains of extensive Roman metropolises and more Greek ruins than are found in Greece, provide marvelous insight into the prosperous civilizations which have flourished in the region through history,” Huffpost says. Highlights include the remains of Troy and Ephesus – our Turkish Treasures tour spends a full day perusing the ancient ruins.

3. Turkish Delight

Turkey’s most famous dessert, Turkish Delight is an amazing blend of rosewater, orange, cinnamon, or lemon in a delicious sugar gel candy.

4. Underground cities

Built into the limestone of Cappadocia to protect Christians from Roman invaders, these extensive cavern dwellings include everything from chapels to wine presses, plunging as much as 18 levels beneath the ground.

5. Crafts

Don’t leave Turkey without indulging in a few handmade souvenirs – the country boasts a rich history of handicrafts of all kinds, from hand-painted ceramic and carpet weaving to silk  spinning and leather work.

Come join Gate 1 Travel for a Turkey tour and you’re sure to find the perfect Turkish odyssey for you and your companions!

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