#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Infinite Majesty in the Balkans; Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia, Bulgaria is the largest city in Bulgaria and also its capital. With a history of 2,000+ years, this city is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Sofia is full of incredible sites including Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (pictured), St. George Rotunda, Banya Bashi Mosque, National Historical Museum and Boyana Church. Treat yourself to delicious restaurants, relaxing cafes and all-encompassing markets in this Eastern European city.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @kimlevin5 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This majestic scene was taken in Sofia, Bulgaria. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Balkans trips here!

Gate 1 ConnectionsMediterranean

Turkey: The Crossroads of Europe and Asia

Hoşgeldiniz and welcome to the Mediterranean country that is not only home to the city that straddles Europe and Asia but also has a history more diverse than any Asian or European country. Turkey, or officially the Republic of Turkey, has a comprehensive history of culture, religion, trade and commerce, making it a fascinating country to visit. On your tour, you will explore a 1,000 year old cathedral turned into a museum, a 4,000 year old city and central location for a very bloody battle, a bazaar where bargaining is an art form and many more unforgettable experiences. Join us on our journey through the country in the center of the world as we take you exploring through Turkey!

Istanbul, the City that Straddles Two Continents

Istanbul, formerly Constantinople and Byzantium, is the largest city by population as well as the center of the country’s economy. Due to its location along the Silk Road, the city is on the strategic path from Europe to the Middle East and contains the only route between the Black and Mediterranean Seas. Since its founding in 660 B.C., Istanbul has been one of the most coveted cities in the world. Ancient sailors would journey at sea for days through the Bosphorus Strait but today tourists can easily cross from Asia to Europe on the Marmaray metro line. Can you imagine having breakfast in Europe and then sitting at a café later in the day in Asia? While in Istanbul, view the Blue Mosque with its six minarets and over 21,000 blue Iznik tiles and Hagia Sophia, a 1,000 year old building. Visit what was once considered the greatest church in Christendom and is now a museum. This Byzantine cathedral has a huge dome and was created in the 6th century.

Konya, Ankara; Cultural Hubs in the East

The intriguing thing about Turkey is the amount of culture and history you can find in each one of its cities no matter on what side of the country. Konya is a city that is renowned for its architecture but is also the home of the famous Whirling Dervishes. You will also find the incredible Mausoleum of Mevlana, a historic mausoleum and home to the dervish museum. Ankara is the capital of the country and the second largest in population after Istanbul. In Ankara, you will view the Mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk, founder and first president of the Turkish Republic and the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, which features Anatolian artifacts dating back to the Paleolithic Age.

Çanakkale, Kuşadası, Izmir and Antalya; Historic Wonders of the West

Enjoy the western part of the country where we find some of the most important biblical, historical and archaeological sites in the entire world. Çanakkale is your gateway to the 4,000 year old city of Troy. Here you will find the city made famous by the Trojan War which was documented in the Illiad by Homer. Visit the port city of Izmir, historically known as “Smyrna”, home to countless archaeological sites and a history dating back over 3,500 years. Kuşadası is just down the coast and believed to be the birthplace of Homer. It has become a hub for cruise ships, marketplaces and restaurants. Relax with a nice cup of Turkish tea or try some traditional Turkish food while spending time in this coastal city. Antalya was founded by King Attalos of Pergamum as “Heaven on Earth” and has become a resort destination in Turkey. It is now popular for shopping, beaches, nightlife and history, a true heaven on earth for visitors.

From Izmir or Kuşadası, you will have a perfect gateway to Ephesus, Turkey. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most important in the Bible and is filled with important sites and places of pilgrimage. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, where it is believed the mother of Jesus was taken by Saint John and lived the remainder of her life. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is a temple built by the ancient Greeks to worship the goddess. The Basilica of St. John sits here and was built over the believed burial site of one of Jesus’ apostles, John. This holy landmark was built in the 6th century and is a popular pilgrimage spot for Christians. The largest historic building here is the Library of Celsus, an ancient Roman building that was completed in 114-117 A.D. This building was built to store thousands of scrolls and also served as the burial site for Celsus, a citizen who became a senator and benefactor of Ephesus.

Cappadocia and Its Whimsical Rock Formations

The otherworldly area of Cappadocia is a true highlight in this Middle Eastern country. This UNESCO World Heritage sight is a rocky wonderland filled with fairy chimneys, homes carved into mountains and rock-face churches. This magical place is located in a semi-arid climate near several volcanic peaks. Cappadocia is actually the name for the region and it is compromised of smaller towns including Güvercinlik, Uçhisar, Paşabağı, Devrent Valley, and more. Be sure to tour the Open Air Museum in Göreme Valley, a display of ruins of houses and dwellings carved into the surrounding volcanic rock. Also visit the underground cities, take a stroll through Monks Valley and perhaps enjoy a Whirling Dervish performance.

Hot-Air Ballooning

The hot-air balloon ride in Cappadocia is one of the most popular of its kind in the world, if not the number one experience. The ride takes you high above the sights of this area to see the mesmerizing carvings, dwellings and geological formations from high above the earth. One of the most exciting things about the balloon ride is the pictures you will get and the view of all the other hot-air balloons you will see floating through the sky with you. Charge up your phone and camera batteries and bring your binoculars for this unforgettable experience above Cappadocia. Some call Cappadocia the most magical place in the world and it is time to judge it for yourself.

Whirling Dervishes

The Whirling Dervishes are a true highlight of the country of Turkey. The term describes a dance called the “Sema” which is performed to express emotion and achieve the love of Allah. This religious dance is Islamic in origin and is thought to have originated in Turkey. Konya is the home of the practice but it is also performed in other parts of the country like Istanbul and Cappodocia. All of the dress and dance has meaning with the white skirt symbolizing the shroud of the ego and the open arms raised towards the sky that are ready to receive God’s acceptance. Sit back and observe the passion and discipline found in this beautiful dance.

Bazaars of Turkey

Whether it is spice, clothing, crafts, souvenirs or household items, Turkey’s many incredible bazaars have you covered. One of the most visited bazaars includes the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul that sees 400,000 people daily. This bazaar is the city’s oldest covered market and has a history dating back to the 15th century. Here you will find textiles, gems, home decor, apparel and even restaurants and cafés. Bargaining is an art here so be sure to have your game face on. The Spice Bazaar is also located in Istanbul and has a storied history including two fires in 1691 and 1940, both of which the market survived. Spices, herbs, jewelry and gift shops can all be found at this famous stop. Kemeralti Bazaar is located in Izmir and is the largest open-air bazaar in the country. Purchase crafts, jewelry and choose from a huge array of fresh spices and herbs. The Kuşadası Bazaar is located in the coastal town of Kuşadası and is the second largest bazaar in Turkey. The Kuşadası Bazaar is actually compromised of two smaller markets called the Grand Bazaar and Orient Bazaar. Find anything in this area from designer knock-offs, Turkish textiles, jewelry and more. If you love to shop or need a gift for a friend or family member back home, you must venture to the bazaars of Turkey and see the colors and excitement of these thriving shops. Some suggested items to buy include the Turkish glass lamps with their colorful mosaics, Turkish black tea which is offered as a sign of welcome or a delicious box of Turkish delights, a desert sure to thrill any sweet tooth.

See “More of the World for Less” with Gate 1 Travel on a tour to beautiful Turkey and learn about the culture, history and people of this ancient country. Gate 1 offers you an experience at a value that cannot be matched. We will take you around Turkey in style and comfort as you explore the cities and sights mentioned and so much more.

Explore the land where the east and the west converge by joining Gate 1 Travel in Turkey!

**Please note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary`

Gate 1 ConnectionsNewsUncategorized

Brazil is Dropping Visa Requirement for US Citizens This Summer

This week, the government in Brazil reported that citizens of the United States, Canada, Japan and Australia no longer need a visa to enter this South American country. This change will go into effect on June 17, 2019. Visitors traveling before that will still need to obtain the e-visa for about $40 USD, which can be found at https://www.brazilvisaonline.org. On this date, visitors with a valid passport from these countries will be allowed to stay in Brazil for 90 days from their date of entry. They also have the possibility of requesting an extension of their stay not to exceed 180 days.

Before 2018, a visit to Brazil required a visit to the consulate but not any longer. This change, according to the media, is due to various measures being taken by Brazilian government to make visitation more accessible. It is theorized that the four countries chosen are strategic markets to develop Brazilian tourism, and therefore attract more tourists to the country. Brazil also has plans for events and campaigns catered specifically to US consumers to promote their country. Expect to see an increase in Brazilian travel offers on your social media feed.

There is no better time to plan a trip to Brazil than now. This country is one of the top growing destinations in the world and is about to become even more popular with this change. Take a trip to see São Paulo, Rio de Janiero, Iguazu Falls and the rest of the country with no worry of a visa beforehand!

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Fairy Tale Town of Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, Belgium is truly like stepping into a fairy tale with its medieval architecture, stone bridges, cobbled streets and winding canals. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in all of Europe. Some of the most notable sights here are the Church of Our Lady, Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Take a stroll at night through the historic streets of this unforgettable town and be taken back in time instantly.

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

EuropeSmall Group DiscoveriesUncategorized

Take a Walk Around Dubrovnik, Literally

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!

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Interior of La Sagrada Familia; Barcelona, Spain

La Sagrada Familia is an essential point in the city of Barcelona, Spain and a true landmark of the area. Most people know the church from the exterior architecture, made famous by Antoni Gaudi, but what many people do not get to see is the colorful interior of this Roman Catholic church. Pictured is just one section of the inside with its stained-glass windows and vibrant colors. If you are looking for a place of faith, contemplation and inspiration, look no further.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @t.y.huang using the hashtag #gate1travel. This colorful scene was taken in Barcelona, Spain. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Spain trips here!

#G1PhotoFridayMediterranean

Epic Sites in Troy, Turkey

The ancient city of Troy, and estimated point of the Trojan War, is located in modern day Anatolia, Turkey. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just south of the mouth of the Dardanelles strait and northwest of Mount Ida. In this area, you will visit the walls of the acropolis, the sanctuary, ruins of the ancient city and a reconstructed Trojan horse, pictured here. Come see history for yourself in this ancient area of the middle east.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by traveler Gail Lund via Facebook. This epic scene was taken in Anatolia, Turkey. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Turkey trips here!

Asia & PacificSmall Group DiscoveriesUncategorized

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

“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!

Asia & PacificSmall Group Discoveries

Uzbekistan’s Silk Road Cities

For more than 2,000 years, camel caravans laden with textiles, jewels, spices and countless other coveted trinkets traversed the Silk Road between the Mediterranean and China. Harsh deserts and rugged mountains made for exhausting journeys, so traders were always relieved when welcoming, oasis-like cities appeared on the horizon. Our Discover Uzbekistan small-group adventure visits three of them—Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand—immersing you among the nation’s most breathtaking mosques, madrasas and mausoleums.

Khiva: First Oasis in Uzbekistan

A welcome sight to traders after their desert trek from Persia, extravagant Khiva emerges on the horizon like a mirage. Here are just a few highlights of this spectacular city:

  • The Ichan-Kala, or inner town, was defended by brick walls that stood 33 feet. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it remains today one of the most remarkably preserved examples of medieval Muslim architecture and urban planning in Central Asia.
  • Ichan-Kala’s expansive royal court is encircled by crenellated walls that might remind you of a massive sand castle. Palaces, mosques, minarets and other stunning structures adorned with majolica tiles transport you back to the days of powerful emirs.
  • The Kunya Ark dates back 1,000 years. It served as an expansive residence for Khiva’s rulers, complete with harems, stables, a throne room, and a jail that held slaves and prisoners.
  • The Djuma Mosque boasts a forest of some 200 pillars carved of wood and decorated with spiraling motifs.
  • The graceful architecture and blue tiles of the Pakhlavan Mahmoud Mausoleum are etched with age-old proverbs ascribed to the beloved poet and patron saint of the city.

Bukhara: The Holiest City

Bukhara is Central Asia’s most complete example of a medieval city. The urban planning and architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site were unsurpassed in the region. Its historic district is an open-air treasure trove of mosques, madrasas and minarets.

  • Within the Poyi-Kalon complex stands the massive Kalon Mosque, which can accommodate 10,000 worshippers. With its luminous blue domes, it proudly stands as a testament to Bukhara’s place as the most holy city in Central Asia. So stunning is its towering minaret, even Genghis Khan spared it from destruction.
  • The shakhristan, or Old Town, provides a snapshot of life in Bukhara 500 years ago. Slim alleyways of mud-brick lead to secluded mosques and fanciful residences from the 19th century.
  • Home of emirs, the Ark Fortress is an opulent summer palace and a resplendent town within a town.
  • The Oriental Bazaar evokes Silk Road traders of old with its shining jewelry, brightly hued carpets, silk clothing and countless other glittering treasures.
  • The center of Bukhara, the Lyabi Khauz Ensemble, is where locals gather for tea and conversation. Covered bazaars fan off the square and lead to the city’s religious sites.

Samarkand: A Thriving Center of Uzbek Culture

By some accounts, Samarkand is the most romantic of the Silk Road cities. It was certainly its most resplendent, thanks to the prosperous (albeit vicious) rule of Tamerlane the Great, who made it the shining capital of his empire.

  • The city, a stunning collection of architecture and art from the 13th century to today, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Registan Square is celebrated as the symbol of Central Asia. The ensemble of shimmering tiled buildings and gateways, including three madrasas, surround a vast and glorious square.
  • Samarkand’s mausoleums are a magnificent tribute to the dead. The enormous Guri Amir is the resting place of Tamerlane. Elsewhere, the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis—where dozens of history’s most notable people were laid—houses intricately decorated tombs surrounding that of Qussam Ibn Abbas, the cousin of Mohammed who is said to have brought Islam here in the 7th century.
  • The world’s largest mosque upon its completion in the 15th century, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque was built as a tribute to Tamerlane’s wife.
  • Portal to the stars in the 1420s, the short-lived yet fascinating Ulugh Beg Observatory was named for its builder. He and his colleagues used it to study the heavens until it was destroyed by religious zealots in 1449.

Experience these remarkable centers of the Silk Road during our Discover Uzbekistan small-group adventure!

#G1PhotoFridayMediterranean

Seeing Blue in Essaouira Port, Morocco

Essaouira, Morocco is located in the western part of the country on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. The Port of Essaouria was founded in 1770 and from then until the first half of the nineteenth century, the port was the most important trading port between Europe, Africa and the Americas. When Casablanca grew in the North and Agadir in the South, the port lost its popular status. The blue boats pictured here are for fishing! The fish caught are then sold in the port’s market.

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