Category: Uncategorized

EuropeSmall Group DiscoveriesUncategorized

Take a Walk Around Dubrovnik, Literally

on April 10, 2019

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!

Asia & PacificSmall Group DiscoveriesUncategorized

Uzbekistan: Central Asia’s Magnificent Center of Culture and History

on March 27, 2019

“Yol boisin.” It’s an Uzbek saying that may well date back to the days of the Silk Road, when traders departed along crude desert and mountain byways carting spices, perfumes, jewels and textiles to far-off lands. “May your travels be free of obstacles” is a loose translation. Today, this blessing for a safe journey embodies the warmth of the Uzbekistan people and the open arms with which they welcome travelers.

If you’ve dreamed of walking in the footsteps of ancient merchants … of uncovering the secrets of Central Asia’s cultural and historic heart … casting your gaze on the turquoise domes and towering minarets of some of the world’s most magnificent and historically significant Islamic architecture … rubbing elbows in bustling bazaars with white-bearded elders adorned in flowing robes and distinctive skullcaps … then Uzbekistan should be on your travel to-do list. Mysterious, remote, and seldom seen by Westerners, it is one of the most rewarding travel experiences you will ever have.

Before you go, it’s worthwhile to know a little more about this enigmatic nation’s remarkable history and rich culture.

Region at a Crossroads: From Transoxiana to Uzbekistan

During the first millennium BC, Scythians settled along the rivers of today’s Uzbekistan. Bukhara and Samarkand emerged as cultural and governmental centers. As China established its silk trade with the West, these cities of Transoxiana (as the region was called) boomed and enjoyed many periods of prosperity. They became known for their wealth, making them the target of conquerors and kingdom-builders.

Macedonian ruler Alexander the Great is said to have fallen in love with Samarkand, saying it was “more beautiful than I ever imagined.” He moved in on the territory in 327 BC but met ferocious resistance. Nonetheless, it became the easternmost province of his Hellenistic world. In the first century BC, Persian empires began a long rule, but were ousted by Arabs in the eighth century AD. This was the beginning of the Islamic Golden Age, a prolific period of scholarly and artistic achievement. Trigonometry was developed, aiding in the study of the stars, and poets and artists graced the culture with their works.

Cultures and empires continued to evolve and prosper until the arrival of Genghis Khan in the 13th century. His Mongol invasion brought utter destruction and displacement. But peace and stability eventually settled in as Transoxiana was divided among the Mongol leader’s sons. Some 100 years later in the 1380s, the princes of various provinces started competing with each other for more extensive power. The chieftain Tamerlane (also known as Timur) won out and proceeded to conquer the western reaches of Central Asia, Iran, the Caucasus, Mesopotamia, Asia Minor and beyond. He was a brutal leader but in his short reign (he died in 1405), he ushered in a new era of Perso-Islamic culture. Palatial religious buildings were erected. Advances in medicine, science and the arts bloomed. Even a new literary language, Turkic, took hold.

The Timurid state could not survive the death of its leader. Internal fighting and the resulting power vacuum opened a window to nomadic Uzbek forces from the north. During the early 16th century, they moved in and created three different states: Bukhara, Khiva and Kokand. Some 300 years later, the Russian Empire called Uzbekistan its own and by 1924 it was part of the Soviet Union. By the time the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, Uzbekistan had already declared its sovereignty.

A Rich Cultural Legacy

Uzbekistan’s culture is steeped in its varied history. The country’s many mosques, mausoleums and madrasas (Islamic educational centers) embody a centuries-long Islamic heritage that started with the arrival of Arabs in the eighth century. Today, Uzbeks remain rightly proud of their spectacular structures and monuments to Islam—and of the oldest copy of the Koran in the world, housed in Tashkent’s Muyi Muborak Madrasa. But many approach daily living with a secular view. Citizens seem to be more interested in sharing the latest news and gossip over kok choy, or green tea, at a traditional teahouse, than in trading views about religion.

That’s not to say that religious-based virtues are not celebrated in Uzbekistan. We’ve already mentioned that the world’s oldest Koran is housed in Tashkent. Tales of morality are also woven into the Uzbek psyche in the same way many fairy tales form the basis of Western ideas of right and wrong. The 11th century, especially, saw poets extolling virtuous ideas, from Yusuf Balasagun’s Kugadau Bilig (Knowledge of Grace) to Akhmad Yugnaki’s Hibat al-Haqa’iq (The Gift of Truth). And during the Timurid era, the great poet and philosopher Alisher Navoi founded the Uzbek literary language with works such as Chordevon and Khamsa.

You can soak in much of Uzbek’s culture in its many bazaars, colorful repositories where modern-day commerce and a centuries-old history converge. A kaleidoscope of culture is for the taking in these dizzying marketplaces. Richly colored suzani carpets, created with skillful needlework depicting flowers, vines, or leaves, recall the days when brides crafted textiles for their grooms. Carefully etched glazed tiles will remind you of the breathtaking artistry of mausoleums and mosques long after you return home. Freshly baked non, or bread, will give you an energetic boost as you explore.

No matter where you are, your wanderings might be accompanied by a distinctive Uzbek soundtrack. The country’s music reaches back as far as its original founding and consists of numerous styles and instruments. Shashmaqam music is thought to have originated in Bukhara in the late 1500s. This hypnotic form comprises six sections, each of which builds to a climax before returning to its original soft tones. Sufi poetry and long-necked string instruments (the tanbur, dutar, and sato) feature prominently. The karnay, a long-necked trumpet, is the Uzbek national instrument, while the nay (a flute blown from its end) and surnay (a loud wooden oboe) are also common.

All of Uzbekistan is music to our ears. We hope you’ll agree when you explore with a small group during our Discover Uzbekistan adventure!

Uncategorized

Pure and Natural Gullfoss Waterfall, Iceland

on January 4, 2019

Gullfoss Waterfall is the most popular waterfall in Iceland and originates from Hvítá, a glacial river that takes melt water from the Langjökull Glacier! This melt water cascades down in two stages, one 36 feet high, and the other 69 feet, into the 1.6 mile long crevasse below. The fall is located about 1.5 hours outside of Reykjavik on the Golden Circle Drive and is a must see while in this beautiful land of ice.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @jensmith680 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This powerful photo was taken at Gullfoss 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!

Bonus Fact: Gullfoss Waterfall is unique in that you view the waterfall from above instead of below!

#G1PhotoFridayUncategorizedUSA & Canada

Getting Back to Nature in Banff, Alberta

on September 14, 2018

Banff, Alberta is located in Western Central Canada nestled among the Rocky Mountains and located about an hour and a half outside of Calgary. This beautiful resort town is picturesque thanks to its various gardens, wildlife, incredible setting among the mountains and, of course, Banff National Park! When in Banff, be sure to take a stroll down Banff Avenue, the main street, that features boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and luxurious hotels. Other attractions include Lake Louise, Bow Falls, Whyte Museum, Cave and Basin National Historic Site and much more!

banff

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

Uncategorized

Top 7 Affordable United States Locations

on August 9, 2018

(Pictured above: Boston Public Gardens)

Some travelers think that it is a must to get out of the country to see sites that are unforgettable, but we have some magnificent ones in our own backyard! Our country may not have a hugely extensive history but we make up for it in soul. The U.S. is full of different cultures, amazing cuisine and friendly people that won’t cost you a fortune to visit. From the untouched wilderness of Alaska to the bustling cities of Texas to the quaint charm of New England, there is so much our country has to offer. We have compiled a list of some of the best destinations in the United States and gave you the low down on what to see there. See our country at it’s best with the Top 7 Affordable United States Locations.

7. Michigan, Mackinac Island & Chicago

First on our list is the exciting Michigan, Mackinac Island & Chicago area that you are sure to fall in love with. First up, visit Detroit where you will visit the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation that commemorates American inventors and important innovations such as historic trains, cars and airplanes. Also tour the city of Detroit, where you will view major sites, theaters, the art district and live music venues, to name a few. Mackinac Island is next up and you will fall in love with this island that transports you to a simpler time. Mackinac Island is located in the pristine waters of Lake Huron and no cars are allowed on the island. While here, enjoy a carriage ride around the island, Arch Rock, a formation that is set against striking views of lake Huron, Fort Mackinac, the oldest building in Michigan, and the downtown area, perfect for shopping, art gallery viewing and eating. Stop at Charlevoix to view the iconic Earl Young’s Mushroom Houses, with each house designed specifically to blend in with its surroundings and no two looking alike. Your last stop is the “foodie” capital of the Midwest, beautiful Chicago, Illinois, located along the Lake Michigan waterfront. In Chicago you will visit Millennium Park, the home of some of Chicago’s most popular sculptures, 360 Chicago, a 1,000 foot observatory that gives you views of the whole city, and a city tour taken by bus, to get you acquainted with the area. Explore the Midwest and see the sights and landmarks of the area, you will not be disappointed with what you find.

6. National Parks

The National Parks of the United States are truly something that everyone who lives in this country should see. They show what the landscape of our country is really like, display some of the most amazing naturally occurring sites in the world and are packed with adventure and education. The other great thing about the National Parks is that they are all different and unique from one another. The Grand Canyon in Arizona is filled with huge gorges and canyons that contain breathtaking views, and is one of the most famous natural landmarks in the country. Bryce Canyon is in Utah and is full of pine trees, hoodoos and magnificent rock formations that rival that of fairy-tale castles. Zion Yllwstne_Falls2National Park, Utah contains red splashed desert rock and sandstone canyons, with birds of prey like eagles, falcons and California condors in the sky. Yellowstone is located in Wyoming and is the first national park of the United States, founded in 1872. Old Faithful, rock formations, geysers and thermal pools are all located in this park. Further Northwest in Wyoming is Grand Teton National Park, an excellent stop for glaciers, lakes, rich forests and excellent wildlife. Canyonlands is located in Utah and is divided by the Green River and Colorado River and your first sweeping view from the Green River Outlook will look atop a massive 1,500 foot mesa. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado protects nearly 5,000 archaeological sites of the Pueblo people and gives you a unique look at the life and times of where they called home. No National Parks list is complete without the mention of Mount Rushmore, also considered a national park area, that is located in South Dakota. This massive memorial is probably the most famous icon of America, and is definitely the world’s largest statue-monument. The national parks are so diverse that anyone can find enjoyment and activities in these places. Whether it be the rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon or the massive faces of past presidents at Mount Rushmore, there is truly something for everyone.

5. Alaska

Alaska is a true must for the bucket list because it is unlike anywhere else in the United States and the world. Breathtaking views and natural phenomenon that you can’t see anywhere else are an everyday occurrence here. The capital city of Anchorage is a bustling town that is located between the Chugach Mountains and the Cook Inlet. This city has plenty of restaurants, museums, shops and more to get you in the Alaskan mindset. Denali National Park brings you to a true Tundra setting that houses wildlife that are unique to the North; black bears, gray wolves, Alaskan moose, Dall sheep and more! This park encompasses 6 million acres of land and provides you with unforgettable views and memories. Next, visit the most popular port in Alaska, Seward, once known for its history with Russian fur traders and gold prospectors. Enjoy scenic Juneau, with the immense Juneau Icefields located right next door. In Juneau you can go shopping, kayak, whale watch, dogsled or hike! This is the place to let out your inner adventurer and do some activities you have always wanted to do. Lastly, enjoy Ketchikan and see beautiful wilderness and fjords created by retreating glaciers. Alaska is a marvel and it is time to see what you’ve been missing.

4. New England

New England is truly its most beautiful in the fall with the leaves changing and the beautiful scenery coming into its own. This area is enchanting all year round but during the fall, it truly comes to life. The quaint towns and friendly cities offer capes, farms and cuisine all their own. While on tour, visit the historic city of Boston, Massachusetts, where you will visit sites such as Old North Church, Boston Commons, Faneuil Hall, and Plymouth Rock at Pilgrim Memorial State Park, the usual site of Mayflower Pilgrims disembarkation. Visit Hyannis, the All-American heart of Cape Cod where you will find the JFK Hyannis Museum, fish shacks, restaurants, beaches, ferries and so much more. You can also choose to take an optional full day excursion to Martha’s Vineyard while in Cape Cod, to enjoy one of the most elegant seasides resorts in the whole of the Northeast. Travel to the Berkshires where you will visit a working Cranberry farm, the number one crop in Massachusetts. Continue onto the village of Stowe, known for its thriving arts community and cultural events. The Mt. Mansfield landscape serves as a backdrop in this picturesque region. Visit the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory in Waterbury, Vermont and enjoy some of America’s best loved ice cream in the factory where it is created. Finally, visit the coastal Ogunquit where you will visit the Seashore Trolley Museum and enjoy a large collection of trolley trams and trains from different cities of the United States. New England is calling for you to visit with its charming sites and scenes, it’s time for a visit.

3. Texas

Texas is one of the largest states in the United States, meaning it is filled with sites that you must see and several major cities that are completely different from one another! Start off in sunny Dallas, where you will visit sites such as the John F. Kennedy Memorial, Dealey Plaza, the Sixth Floor Museum, George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum and so much more! Next, enjoy the city of Fort Worth where you will enjoy a guided tour of the once busiest and biggest livestock marketing center in the Southwest. Austin is your next big stop and here you will enjoy a bustling city with an excellent cultural scene and top-notch nightlife. Venture to the birthplace of Lyndon B Johnson and where he lived with his wife Lady Bird in Fredricksburg, Texas, and explore the national park located here. Visit the “American Venice” of San Antonio, Texas, with historic missions, a river walk centerpiece and lots of beauty. While here, experience a barge cruise on the San Antonio River, Mission San Jose, Mission Conception, The Alamo, and more. On your last stop, visit the largest and most diverse city of Texas: Houston. In Houston enjoy a city tour that includes views of the JP Morgan Chase Tower, City Hall, Texas Medical Center and a stop at the U.S.S. Texas Battleship. Also tour the Space Center Houston that contains many hands on displays, space artifacts and even a full size space shuttle! Texas‘ cities are as diverse as they are spectacular, so why not visit them today and have a trip worth remembering.

2. California

California is like Texas, in that its large size allows for many different large cities with a lot of different excitement and adventures to offer! Explore the, “City by the Bay” of San Francisco where you will have free time to explore and/or enjoy views of Nob Hill, Chinatown, Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Next, explore one of the most beautiful National Parks in our country, Yosemite, with its waterfalls, hiking trails, rock formations and exquisite charm. Take in Monterey and its coastline stretching for miles on the Monterey Bay Peninsula. See photographic vistas, multi-million dollar homes and the dramatic Pacific coastline on “17 Mile Drive”. Los Angeles awaits and brings you a Fishermans Wharfmorning sightseeing tour that shows you around the celebrity homes, unique neighborhoods and iconic sights. Another excellent reason to visit California is it’s proximity to other places in neighboring states that you do not want to miss while visiting the West coast. Some of these include Las Vegas, Nevada the hub of gambling and luxurious hotels, Grand Canyon, an unforgettable National Park in Arizona that will leave you with the best pictures on earth, and up to Portland, the city that is extremely green and earth-conscious, located just north in Oregon. Do not miss California and it’s neighboring states because on the West Coast, there is a whole different lifestyle and attitude that you will love being a part of.

1. The South

The South encompasses a huge area of the U.S. and has some cuisine and culture that you cannot miss! From the historic town of Charleston, South Carolina, to the bayous of New Orleans, you are going to love waking up each day to explore different parts of this area. On our “Musical Journey Through the South” tour, start your trip in the “Music City” of Nashville, Tennessee. In Nashville, tour the oldest recording studio in the U.S., RCA Studio B, Music Row, the heart of Nashville’s entertainment industry and Centennial Park, an area including the world’s only full scale replica of the Parthenon in Athens. Next up is glitzy Memphis where you will enjoy the sounds of Beale Street, known for its Blue, Jazz and Rock n’ Roll Music. Also visit Graceland, where you will tour the mansion of American legend, Elvis Presley. Lastly, experience the vibrant city of New Orleans with its delicious Cajun cuisine, a behind the scenes Mardi Gras parade exhibit, and a tour of the Southern Louisiana Swampland by boat! If you prefer history, our “Historical South” itinerary savannah2starts in St. Augustine, Florida, the oldest city in the United States! Here you will take part in a guided trolley tour to get to know the city. After that enjoy the city at leisure and perhaps visit the Old Jail, History Museum or Flagler College. Next visit one of the most beautiful cities in the country; Savannah, Georgia, where you will want to visit some of the landmarks including Forsyth Park, River Street and the Cotton Exchange. Walk along the cobblestone streets of this enchanting place and feel the embrace of the South. Our last spot is Charleston, South Carolina, a city that is beyond historic and truly filled with Southern grace. Enjoy the multi-colored homes, Southern buildings and architectural styles from the Revolutionary War to the Antebellum mansions. You will find hospitality, warmth and plenty of charm when you are in the South and you will discover places and sites that you never knew were right in our country. Come on down to the South where you will share memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.

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2nd Annual Gate 1 Photo Contest

on January 12, 2017

Gate 1 Travel is excited to announce that we are launching our 2nd annual photo contest with a chance to win $500! Tag your best photo(s) from past trips with both #gate1travel #gate1contest17 and be entered to win a $500 Visa pre-paid gift card. Previously submitted photos will not be counted. One winning photo will be selected from each category (Europe, the Mediterranean, Africa, Asia & Pacific, USA & Canada, and Latin America). The grand prize winner will be chosen from among the regional winners by our Facebook fans! The contest is open until January 27, 2016 and a winner will be announced in March. Full Details

How to Enter:

  1. Upload photos to Twitter or Instagram or directly from you computer or device here
  2. Hashtag #gate1travel and #gate1contest17 with the country where you took the photo (ex: #gate1travel #gate1contest17 #italy)
  3. Be sure that your social profile (Twitter or Instagram) is set to public
  4. Keep an eye on our site and encourage your friends to vote for the grand prize winner on Facebook for your chance to win!

2016 Region Winners:

Europe - 1st Place: @toots4e
Europe – 1st Place: @toots4e
Mediterranean - 2nd Place: @tales_of_trails
Mediterranean – 2nd Place: @tales_of_trails
Africa - 3rd Place: @tmess1001
Africa – 3rd Place: @tmess1001
kdhamcharee-canada-finalist
USA & Canada – @kdhamcharee
Latin America - @mahalolucy
Latin America – @mahalolucy
Asia - @mingomatic
Asia – @mingomatic

Categories: Europe, Mediterranean, Africa, Asia & Pacific, USA & Canada, Latin America

Instagram & Twitter: #gate1travel #gate1contest17 & follow Gate 1 Travel

Facebook: click here to upload directly from your profile, like Gate 1 Travel & share with your friends to vote for your photo!

Looking for inspiration? Check out our traveler photo gallery to see what others have posted!

Click here for full Terms & Conditions.

AfricaMediterraneanUncategorized

Rabat, Morocco: A City of Contrasts

on May 20, 2016

Nestled right between the Atlantic & the Mediterranean, Morocco is truly a crossroads of world cultures. The small kingdom of 30 million people sits at the western tip of Africa, just 7 miles from the coast of Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar. Morocco’s vibrant culture reflects centuries of European, West African, Arab, and indigenous influences.

rabat red.jpg

A Gate 1 traveler took this colorful photo last week on our 13 Day Kaleidoscope of Morocco tour. The group visited Rabat, Morocco’s coastal capital, where the traveler took advantage of the refreshing Atlantic breezes by the beach. “This city is overwhelmingly beautiful,” she notes.

From Rabat, our tour continues to Fez to visit its famous tanneries and wander its ancient medina, and dine with a local family. We’ll spend nights in the cedar woods of the Atlas Mountains, the vast Sahara Desert, and the towering canyons of Ouarzazate before arriving in Marrakesh, site of the lively Jema al Fna square. After a whirlwind of tastes, geographies, sounds and cities, you’ll fall in love with Morocco’s mosaic of cultures.

MediterraneanSignaturesUncategorized

Wander the desert in style: deluxe Israel tours with Eilat resort

on May 11, 2016

Israel is a place of beauty, charm and history. Signature Collection’s 14 Day Deluxe Israel with Eilat is specially curated to offer the perfect blend of natural attractions, resort excursions, and cultural experiences.

Natural Wonders

In an open-topped Jeep, travel into the Eilat mountains, following dramatic trails that highlight the surreal scenery of the Negev Desert. We’ll stop for desert-style hospitality with warm Bedouin pita bread and sweet tea.

Explore the shores of the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, to the cliff-top fortress at Masada, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travel via verdant rolling hills to the tranquil Sea of Galilee for a truly unique experience as we embark on a replica boat and sail on the same waters as fisherman did in the time of Jesus.

Relaxation

Spend a morning enjoying the Red Sea’s crystal-clear turquoise waters – diving and snorkeling here is the best in the world – the underwater life can be seen clearly, including rare corals, hundreds of species of fish and much more. Sunbathe at the pool or, just pamper yourself at the hotel’s spa. At night, Eilat comes alive! There’s a wide choice of trendy international restaurants and a vibrant night scene.

We visit Tishbi Winery for an exclusive vineyard tour of this family-owned winery, one of Israel’s finest. Enjoy tastings of the many types of wine, handmade chocolates and share a delicious lunch.

In Jerusalem, a local “shuk” expert takes you step-by-step to the best food stalls in the market. The delectable lunch is a fantastic blend of home-grown flavors and fresh cooked tasty delights. Join us later for a private wine and hors d’oeuvres reception that opens our magical evening at the Tower of David as the sun sets over the Old City.

History

We’ll introduce you to the ancient port city of Jaffa (Joppa), eternally linked with the biblical tales of King Solomon, Jonah and St. Peter. Tour the ancient ruins, continuing along the winding cobblestone lanes to the reconstructed Artists’ Quarter.

Visit the Old City for views of the magnificent Dome of the Rock. Then, we follow the Via Dolorosa through the narrow alleys and souks of the Old City to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be where Jesus was crucified and buried.

Discover the timeless city of Acre (Akko), once capital of the Crusaders, and their last stronghold in the Holy Land. We travel to Nazareth, the sacred town where Jesus spent most of his youth; visit the Basilica of the Annunciation and Mary’s Well.

Culture

Visit the fascinating Ilana Goor Museum, located in an 18th century building that once served as the first Jewish inn for pilgrims on the way to Jerusalem. This unique museum is acclaimed for its extraordinary collection of international works of art, alongside Goor’s original creations.

Our Signature Collection tour includes an unforgettable opportunity to visit a working kibbutz and get acquainted with everyday life in this rural community.

In Jaffa, we visit the dynamic Sarona Market complex, heart of Israel’s culinary art scene, for a lunch of local specialties. Revel in the contrasting architecture of this city on the sea, home to more Bauhaus buildings than any other city in the world.

Signature Collection’s 14 Day Deluxe Israel with Eilat tour puts the very best of the Holy Land on spectacular display. Subscribe to our newsletter to save hundreds on your next trip to Israel.

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What’s it like touring Turkey with Gate 1?

on May 7, 2016

Lauren Higbee is a true jet-setter, having visited a new country each year for most of her life. In 2014, she took her first-ever escorted tour, the 13 Day Essential Turkey, with her retired parents.

Seeing it all

Lauren opted for a tour in order to see as much of the country as possible.”For me especially, Turkey was a long-awaited dream trip and I wanted to see as much as we could in the two weeks we were there,” Lauren told Pink Pangaea. “The highlight for us was exploring new places that we probably wouldn’t have discovered on our own…we loved was the hot springs at Pamukkale, a gorgeous UNESCO site.”

Escorted tours ensure that you see the highlights of every destination, but our itineraries also include plenty of room to explore. “Gate 1 did a nice job of balancing scheduled activities with free time (time that you could use to explore on your own or book optional activities),” Higbee explains. “This worked well for us as it allowed us to customize our trip according to our interests.”

Cultural Exchange

Some might worry that an escorted tour leaves little time to interact with locals, but Lauren found the opposite to be true. Gate 1 offered “a lunch [that] they scheduled with local families in a small village,” Lauren says. “Our guide was a local Turkish woman who was very knowledgeable about the history of Turkey and the cities we were visiting. Her expert advice was invaluable in understanding what we were seeing and forming our own connections to the place.”

Lauren and her parents also visited a primary school near Konya that is supported by the Gate 1 Foundation. “Thanks to the Gate 1 sponsorship, the school had just finished building a cafeteria and we got to meet some of the children. I was really impressed that they took the time to show us how tourism can make difference in every day lives,” Higbee notes.

“I can’t think of anything particularly disappointing about the tour, aside from perhaps wanting it to be longer!”

Read the whole interview here, or start planning your trip to the land of whirling dervishes, ice-cream acrobats and underground cities.

morocco-camels
NewsTravel TipsUncategorized

Gate 1’s New Tour Types, Explained

on April 25, 2016

Gate 1 Travel has released a new system for categorizing our growing range of travel experiences. We hope that the new categories, which are now listed on the table of contents for each destination, will help our passengers find their preferred travel experience more quickly.

The new tour categories focus on a few key elements: season, itinerary, length, and group size. The list below can also be found on destination tables of contents by hovering over the blue question mark at the top of the “Category” column.

Tour Categories.PNG

Classic – First class accommodations, balance of included sightseeing and free time, transfers & multiple meals included.

Off Season – Beat the crowds with a Classic tour itinerary in the off-season, and save on land services and airfare.

Partially Escorted – A portion of your itinerary will feature escorted touring services with additional time traveling independently.

Value – Tourist and/or first class accommodations, minimal inclusions with a variety of optional tours available to customize your experience.

Express – Short getaways featuring the highlights of a destination with maximum efficiency.

Luxury – Deluxe accommodations, unique & exclusive experiences, exceptional food, all touring and most gratuities included.

Small Group – Maximum 22 travelers, unique & boutique accommodations, enhanced cultural immersion

Independent – Explore at your own pace, without the included features of an escorted tour.

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