Tag: Europe

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Underrated City of Ljubljana, Slovenia

on May 18, 2018

Ljubljana, Slovenia is the capital of the small country as well as its largest city. This city is unique in that it has the sophistication of a small town but the offerings of a large metropolis. Ljubljana has great activities to offer including touring Tivoli Park, Ljubljana Castle or Dragon Bridge, sampling Slovenian Wine or keeping caffeinated with a local favorite; Turkish Coffee.

ljubljana
This week’s #g1photofriday was submitted by user @yeeungt using the hashtag #gate1travel. This winding view was taken in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Slovenia/Croatia trips here!

Travel Tips

Our Top 12 Most Popular Tours of 2018

on May 14, 2018

Gate 1 Travel is letting you in on a little secret. Today we are sharing the top 12 best performing tours thus far in 2018 because you deserve to know! These tours vary greatly in destination but they all excel in showing you must-see sites, beautiful cities, unique cultures and natural beauty all in one escorted tour! We are giving you a countdown of our top 12 tours in hopes of giving you some inspiration when it comes to planning your next unforgettable adventure. Journey with us from Ireland to Vietnam to the United States with a whole world in between and enjoy our list.

12. 9 Day Enchanting Ireland
Enchanting Ireland is right. Ireland is a beautiful country known for a warm culture, lush greenery and excellent sites to see. While on this tour of Ireland you will see some Blarney_Castleof the can’t miss spots including the city of Dublin, where you will enjoy a city tour, visit Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, and have free time to explore. Also enjoy the Killarney area where you will drive through the world-famous Ring of Kerry and see sites on your way. On this tour you will also see Blarney Castle, Waterford, Bunratty Castle, Cliffs of Moher and Galway. If you have been wanting to visit Ireland, there is no better time than the present to go green.

11. 8 Day Essential Vietnam
Vietnam is a country that is so incredibly different from anywhere else that it’s popularity is no surprise. Your tour of Vietnam will most likely begin with a visit to Ho Ch Minh City, formerly Saigon, where you will have the chance to take an optional excursion to Cu Chi Tunnels, enjoy a optional half day tour of the city or explore the city on your own at your leisure. You will also visit the incredible Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see caves, grottos, islands, stalactites, stalagmites and waterfalls, to name a few! You will also have a full day in Hanoi to either explore the city leisurely or take some optional tours that include the Museum of Ethnology and a Cyclo Ride/Water Puppet Show. This genuine country will win you over and you will enjoy every minute of it.

10. 8 Day Classic National Parks, Mt. Rushmore, Yellowstone & Grand Teton
What better way to see what the world has to offer than by visiting parts of your own country? Although our country doesn’t have a history as old as some others, we do have amazing sites, national parks, natural phenomenon and plenty of great cities with their own special elegance. On this tour you will see 3 national parks, stay in 6 different locations and have the experience of a lifetime, all in 8 days! Visit Rapid City, the gateway to South Dakota’s Black Hills and iconic Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. Experience the beauty of Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the United States and home to “Old Faithful”, hot springs, thermal features, rock cliffs and more! You will also get to visit Grand Teton National Park, with its dense forests and rich wildlife and then continue to Salt Lake City, Utah. It’s time to see what the United States has to offer and explore some of our greatest treasures.

9. 15 Day Cambodia & Vietnam
This excellent tour gets you seeing two of the greatest countries of Southeast Asia and experiencing some of the greatest sites they have to offer. In just over two weeks you will Vietnam HalongBay_1109_dt_16304888experience 7 different cities and add two different countries to your list! While on tour, visit Siem Reap, home to some of the most famous sites in the world; Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat. Travel to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy leisure time or take some optional tours to get to know this fascinating city. While on your Cambodia & Vietnam tour you will also see the city of Phnom Penh, Tonle Sap Lake in Cambodia, the ancient town of Hoi An, Hue; home to a wealth of palaces, temples, museums and libraries, Halong Bay and Hanoi. This tour covers so much of these two amazing countries that it is a truly unmissable experience.

8. 13 Day Turkish Treasures
Welcome to the true crossroads of Europe and Asia; Turkey. This country has history that dates back to B.C. and has ancient sites to see that are some of the oldest on earth! On your journey to Turkey you will tour the city of Istanbul and see the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, Topkapi Palace and the Spice Market. Traverse the ancient city of Cappadocia with its surreal rock formations, rock-cut temples and plenty of hot air balloons in the sky, with an optional have your own hot air balloon ride! This extensive tour also includes visits to the classical city of Troy, the port city of Izmir, the resort town of Antalya and Ankara the modern capital of Turkey. Learn about the country and sites you have read about in books like The Illiad and venture to this country today.

7. 13 Day Kaleidoscope of Central Europe
Central Europe has so much to offer in such a small area of the world. On this tour you will visit 5 major cities with a few stops along the way, and potentially add 5 new countries to your list. You will travel to the medieval city of Krakow, Poland, a city that was greatly affected by WWII and see the Jewish Quarter and Ghetto of the city as well as taking a solemn visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Experience the former center of the Hapsburg Empire; Vienna, Austria, where you will view Schonbrunn Palace, Empress Maria Theresia Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, Parliament and more. This tour will also bring you to more unforgettable places such as Warsaw, Czestochowa, Budapest, Bratislava and Prague. If you enjoy history, culture, music and experiencing unforgettable places, this tour is perfect for you.

6. 11 Day Affordable Croatia & Slovenia
Croatia is a travel location that is increasingly popular for good reason! This seaside country has excellent cities by the water and a neighboring country of Slovenia that you will not want to miss. This tour includes stops in 7 towns and cities with optional tours to see even more. This extraordinary tour takes you to Dubrovnik, the walled and cobbled-street city that you have probably seen on Game of Thrones, as King’s Landing, and in many pictures. Also explore the lake-side city of Bled, set among the Julian Alps and one of Slovenia’s most popular resort towns. Opatija, Zadar, Split, Krka National Park, Vodice, Zagreb and Ljubjana, Slovania are all included on this fully-packed tour. Come see why so many people are visiting this country and discover many of your own reasons!

5. 11 Day Enchanting Italy
Italy is always a great idea and this tour covers places you have always wanted to visit. If Venetian canals, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Michelangelo’s David, and Pompeii are things you have dreamed about, this tour covers it all and so much more. Visit and stay in the city of Florence, where David, the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and Signoria Square await you. Take a tour of ancient Rome, home of the Colosseum, excellent food and a tiny country called Vatican City. This tour will also take you to Venice, Tuscany, Pisa, Assisi, Pompeii, Sorrento, Bay of Naples and more! If a friendly culture, excellent food and beautiful sites are on your travel list, you will surely cross them off with this tour of Italy.

4. 8 Day Essential Greece
This country, in the heart of the Mediterranean, is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world; the Acropolis, Olympia and Delphi. This tour has an unbeatable DelphiAthenaprice and gets you all around Greece in just over a week! You will likely arrive in Athens, the capital of Greece and home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Acropolis. Take a tour of the archaeological site of Olympia and see where the games were first held in 776 B.C. Visit the excavated site of Delphi, enjoy the coastal road to the mighty Corinth Canal and take an optional day tour to Hydra, Poros and Aegina Islands. Discover this ancient country that is the birthplace of democracy and the cradle of Western Civilization on this unforgettable tour.

3. 12 Day Danube River Cruise with Prague
A river cruise through Europe is an excellent way to see many destinations while returning to the comfort of a ship between each. Being on a cruise means that while you are busy sleeping or enjoying the ship, you are being whisked away to a new and exciting destination. On your river cruise you will sail along the Danube river and visit Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, and Germany, you will also see the Czech Republic on this specific tour. Visit the essential Danube village town of Melk, Austria where you will walk along medieval cobblestone streets leading to 16th century houses and wine taverns. You will also visit the city of Prague on this tour, where you will see the world-famous Astronomical Clock. The Town Hall, Jewish Quarter and many more sites. Other stops on this tour include Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Durnstein, Linz, Passau, Vilshofen and Regensberg. It’s time to experience Europe in one of the most unique and special ways; on a European river cruise with Gate 1 Travel!

2. 10 Day Affordable Peru
Seeing Machu Picchu is on the bucket list of many travel enthusiasts. If you are one of these enthusiasts this tour was made for you. Visit the city of Lima, the capital of Peru and its excellent landmarks including the Palace of the Archbishop, the Government Palace and the Cathedral of Lima. You will, of course, experience the ancient capital of the Incan Empire, Cuzco, which contains some ruins of its own and will be your gateway to touring the incredible Machu Picchu. This tour also visits Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Uros Islands, Puno and more! This exceptional tour brings you to some of the most photographed and visited places in the world and is affordable as well. Get out your hiking gear because Peru awaits.

1. 13 Day Kaleidoscope of Morocco
If you have not been to Morocco yet, it is a must-visit! This up and coming country has been hugely popular this year thanks to its unique culture, vast array of things to do and excellent pricing! This tour offers many essential locations in Morocco including Fez, an OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAancient city with breathtaking views that you can decide to discover on your own or join the optional city tour. You will also visit Marrakesh where you will visit the Saadian Tombs, Koutoubia Minaret, the Medina and the Bahia Palace. On this Moroccan tour you will also visit Rabat, Erfoud, Rissani, Ouarzazate and Casablanca. There’s no better time than now to start seeing the world and all its beauty and culture. What better way to explore, than to enjoy our most popular tour of the year to beautiful Morocco?

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Iconic Scene of Giant’s Causeway

on May 11, 2018

Giant’s Causeway is located in Northern Ireland in Bushmills. This famous landmark is the result of an ancient fissure volcano erupting and causing around 40,000 columns made of black basalt. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has sprung many legends and stories by the locals involving giants. See it for yourself and decide if science or stories built this fascinating landscape.

giantscauseway

This week’s #g1photofriday was submitted by user @3kingstraveling using the hashtag #gate1travel. This colorful view was taken at Giant’s Causeway located in Bushmills, Northern Ireland. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Ireland trips here!

Travel Tips

5 Best Places to Travel this Summer

on May 3, 2018

June, July and August are the most popular times to travel. Work has died down and mother nature is at her best so it’s the time most take their much needed vacation days. Unfortunately, this means that the people come in swarms, the temperatures rise and there is a line to do just about anything. Crowds, heat and lines are all synonymous with summer vacations so we decided to compile a list of destinations that will get you to cooler places, places with less crowds and places that demonstrate that little something extra during the summer. It is time to get off the beaten path, try somewhere new and enjoy your days off with relaxation and adventure. Join us on our summer list to see where you should be visiting this season!

Evening at Lake Louise5. Alberta, Canada
Alberta, Canada has a lot to offer; a warm, summer temperature, about 75 degrees average, that won’t leave you sweating and an array of National Parks, landmarks and beautiful views of nature that you cannot see anywhere else. Edmonton is the capital of Alberta and it is a perfect city to explore. Museums, the famous Farmer’s Market in Old Strathcona and many hip and delicious restaurants to sample all await you in Edmonton. Some can’t miss adventures in Alberta include Jasper National Park, known for its abundant wildlife, Athabasca Falls, Lake Louise, a glacier-fed lake and one of the most photographed spots in all of Canada, Banff National Park and Cave & Basin National Historic Site, great for exploring the naturally-occurring, warm mineral springs that can be found inside the cave, and outside in an emerald colored basin. Get in touch with mother nature during her favorite season in Alberta, Canada.

SugarLoaf RioDeJaneiro_1111_dt_65528674. Brazil & Argentina
If you are specifically looking to beat the heat, then South America is perfect for you. The summer of the United States is actually the winter season in Brazil and Argentina. For example, the average temperature of July in Buenos Aires is only in the 50s, while January is the hottest month with an average of 76, the opposite of the United States! If the temperature isn’t enough to wow you, then the sites will get you on the next flight to South America. Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, a beautiful collection of waterfalls that has viewing sides in both Argentina and Brazil. Rio de Janeiro, the home of the famous “Christ the Redeemer” statue and a picturesque beach, Sugar Loaf Mountain, Corcovado Mountain, which gives you a 360 view of the city of Rio, and so much more await you in this area of the earth. It’s time to brush up on your Spanish, put on your tango shoes and see the beauty that is South America: Brazil & Argentina.

3. Kenya & Tanzaniathe-serengeti
Welcome to another area that has its winter while the United States has their summer; Kenya & Tanzania. The average temperatures in July in Kenya & Tanzania are in the mid-70s and this is the coldest that they get all year! Luckily the temperature is not the only reason to visit, it is also the start of the dry season which makes for the best viewing for wildlife while on safari. June and July are also the best months for seeing the wildebeest migration through the Serengeti. Some of the great sites and adventures that await you on your journey include Karen Blixen Museum, the farmhouse of the prominent author of “Out of Africa”, Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage, Samburu National Park, a park home to unique wildlife and a haven for birds, Serengeti National Park, Masai Mara National Reserve, a park renowned for its spectacular game viewing, Ngorongoro Conservation area and many more adventures! There’s no better time to take your safari then in the summer and in Kenya & Tanzania.

cappadocia32. Turkey
While Turkey might not be the best place to beat the heat, it is the perfect place to avoid the crowds you may find in the popular destinations around the world. The average temperature in Istanbul in July is in the 80s so it is on par with most European countries during this time but it has just as many great sites and things to see as European cities! The great thing about Turkey and why you should visit, is its location, between Asia, Africa and Europe, and the fact that it is not a huge travel mecca… yet. Turkey also has a background that dates back to ancient times so there is a lot of history, architecture and culture to explore. While in Turkey make sure to visit Istanbul, the city that straddles two continents and home to an amazing spice market, Anzac Cemetery, Canakkale, Troy, a 4,000 year old city and real-life setting for The Iliad, Pergamum, Asklepion, Izmir, Pamukkale, Antalya, Cappadocia, home to rock-cut temples and tons of hot air balloons, Ankara and all of their history! Get away from the crowds and see an authentic country embedded with ancient sites and cities.

1. Icelandblue_lagoon_k9a8760_01-2
Not only is Iceland a hugely popular travel destination, but July has the warmest temperature that this northern country gets. The average temperature in July is in the 50s in Reykjavik and is the perfect sweater weather to make you forget about the heat back home. Going to Iceland in the summer really gives you a completely different outlook than visiting in the winter. It is a time of year that daylight is at its longest and can last about 20 hours a day from mid-May to Mid-August. This means you have extra daylight and warm temperatures allowing you to explore everything Iceland has to offer; from an inventive restaurant scene in Reykjavik, to the geographical wonders of Gullfoss Waterfall. Other things to see in Iceland include Blue Lagoon, a unique natural pool of mineral rich geothermal water located in the middle of a lava field, South Shore, Skaftafell National Park, see Europe’s largest ice cap and the peaks of Skaftafell, Thingvellir National Park, Snaefellsjökull Glacier, a splendid strato-volcano at the very end of the peninsula, Stykkisholmur and so much nature and beauty! It’s time to get out your finest fleece, wool socks and, of course, some sunglasses for the daylight! Take a trip to this striking country for a cool summer vacation you will not forget.

EuropeTravel Tips

The Perks of Work: Employee Travel Testimonial – Danube River Cruise

on April 19, 2018

The Danube River runs through several countries in Europe, with the featured itinerary

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Weissenkirchen village, Austria

having visited Germany, Austria, Hungary and Slovakia. A river cruise is a great way to travel if you enjoy seeing many different cities and countries, traveling through beautiful waterfront views and enjoying amenities on board while you are not at port. We caught up with Billy, a Gate 1 Travel employee, who recently enjoyed a Danube River Cruise, and we got the inside scoop on his trip!


Why did you choose the Danube River Cruise trip and what had you heard about the places it visits that made you decide on it?

Being able to go to 4 different countries on one trip was very appealing. I knew about the alpine landscape in Austria but I knew very little about the other destinations.

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Shoenbrunn castle, Vienna, Austria

The Danube River is a very popular international travel destination, how was that reflected in your trip?

Our local guide told us that tourism is the number one industry in Austria. It was so beautiful I can see why everyone wants to go there.

What were some of the highlights of your trip?

My favorite city was Bratislava, Slovakia. The old architecture was so charming and it was very easy to walk around the city. We were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Lipizzaner Stallions in Vienna, Austria. The best thing was waking up each morning and having a different view out of our ship’s window.

What was your favorite meal or what food did you have that you really enjoyed or felt 

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St. Stephan Cathedral, Vienna, Austria

was very authentic?

The best meal was lunch on the optional tour of Salzburg where we had authentic Wienerschnitzel. The best food was in Regensburg where we could smell the Bratwurst from outside the restaurant. They were delicious.

How was the shopping and did you visit anywhere specifically great for shopping?

There were local crafts to buy everywhere as well as more touristy shops. What I love is to buy local artwork while on vacations. Outside the Schonbrunn Palace, I purchased a one-of-a-kind painting from a local student that still hangs on my wall at home.

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Passau, Germany

What travel tips would you give to someone preparing to go on this trip?

Do the optional tours! The Schonbrunn Palace Tour was amazing and really worthwhile.

How did you prepare for this trip?

I made sure to be ready to take a lot of photos and I was glad I did. Europe is beyond beautiful along the Danube River.

Would you go back?

Absolutely; but I also want to take the Gate 1 cruises on the Main and Rhine rivers and in Holland & Belgium during Tulip Time!

How was your tour manager and what were they like? In what ways did they effect your trip?

Our tour manager was great. He was very friendly and answered all our questions. He was very knowledgeable and funny too! I often hung out at the back of the group taking 

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Schoenbuehel Castle, Danube river, Austria

photos and noticed that even when we had a local city guide, he was watching to make sure everything was going well.

What did you feel was the overall theme of your trip? 
Convenience. When most of your meals are included and the travel between cities happens while you sleep, all you have to worry about is waking up from your afternoon nap in time for dinner! We also only had to unpack one time. To top it all off our tour manager was always ready to answer questions or give suggestions.

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Church of St. Elizabeth, called the Blue Church, Bratislava, Slovakia

How did being on an escorted tour effect your trip?

It was great to meet new people and have great conversations over meals.

Would you recommend this trip to family/friends?

I would recommend this trip to anyone; art & architecture lovers, history buffs, adventurers, and anyone who likes to have a good meal and drinks with new friends!

Top 10 Things to do in Benelux
EuropeTravel Tips

Top 10 Things to do in Benelux

on April 9, 2018

Welcome to the region of Northwestern Europe known as Benelux, named for the union of three neighboring states; Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg. This area of world is known for its landscapes, Dutch culture, medieval towns and, of course, tulips in the spring! The areas prime languages are Dutch in the Netherlands and French in Brussels-Flower_Carpet-ContrastBelgium and Luxembourg. In Benelux you will find famous towns and cities that have a history that is centuries older than that of the United States. History buffs, travel junkies and thrill seekers alike will love this part of Europe thanks to its diversity in culture, foods and activities. We have complied the can’t miss cities, towns and foods of Benelux for your next trip to the area!

10. Grand Place, Brussels

We will get to the city where the Grand Place is located later in the list, but we wanted to highlight one of the spots that you cannot miss while traveling to Brussels, Belgium. The Grand Place or Grote Markt is the picturesque, ornately decorated central square in Brussels. The square is made up of guildhalls, the Town Hall, and the King’ House that contains the Museum of the City of Brussels. This square is truly unforgettable and will be one of your favorite spots to photograph on your whole trip. We suggest going at night, in addition to daylight, to see it all lit up and with people strolling around the square.

9. Bruges

Bruges is a fairy-tale town in Belgium that borders the North Sea. Bruges is a must visit with beautiful canals, medieval architecture and cobbled streets. Things to do while in normal (1)the city include the Markt, or town center, the Belfry of Bruges, which provides you with an excellent view of the city, and Chocolate Shops, you will find some great chocolate in this town so buy some here! This town is very walk-able and is excellent for a stroll at nighttime after dinner. You will see all these beautiful medieval buildings lit up while the safe cobbled streets of Bruges line your way.

8. Vollendam – Cheese and Clogs

Vollendam is a small town just outside of Amsterdam that has great things for tourists and taste buds alike! This fishing village is your gateway to many of the things that you think of when you hear the word “Dutch”. Cheese, windmills, bonnets and clogs can all be bought here and you may even see some locals that still wear this attire everyday. If you are a cheese lover this is the perfect place to sample some of the countries most famous cheeses and even try something different. You might also want to purchase cheese here either to eat the rest of the tour or to bring home. If you are bringing the cheese home, be sure to put it in your checked luggage.

7. Chocolates

Chocolates are something the entire world enjoys and there is no better place to buy some then in the Benelux region. The best places to buy chocolate on your trip are in Brussels and Bruges. In Brussels you will find four delicious shops right in its main square, the Grand Place, on its north side. Godiva, Neuhaus, Galler and Leonidas can all be found here. If you aren’t sure what to buy here, purchase a six-piece 100-gram mix of these delicious delights to get your taste buds going. Bruges also has an array of places to buy tasty Chocolates; Dumon, The Chocolate Line, BbyB and Confiserie de Clerck, to name a few. Enjoy your treats on your tour and make sure to bring some home to your friends.

6. Bastogne – Battle of the Bulge

Welcome to one of the most important battlefields of WWII; Bastogne, Belgium, where the Battle of the Bulge took place. This battle is where U.S. forces fought against retreating Germans and was the bloodiest fought by the U.S. in all of WWII. In Bastogne you will find the War Museum which covers WWII in its entirety and the somber resting place of hundreds of thousands of soldiers from both the Allied and German sides. Make sure to view the Mardasson Memorial, a memorial honoring the American soldiers wounded or killed during this battle.

5. Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is located in a city further down on our list, but it is worth its own spot because of its historical importance and message. The museum is in the actual house that the Franks lived in while their family was Classical Amsterdam viewforced to go into hiding from the Nazis. The home still has the bookcase through which the annex where they hid is located. Throughout the house are excerpts from Anne’s diary, information about the war and the details of the persecution the Jewish people went through leading up to and during World War II. The museum is a harrowing experience to say the least but it is so well-done that every tourist and local should make the visit.

4. Luxembourg

Welcome to the “Grand Duchy” of Luxembourg, meaning that the territory is ruled by a grand duke or duchess, the last of its kind in the entire world! This country is one of the smallest in the world but don’t let the size fool you, it is the richest country in all of Europe. Stop in this tiny little country and visit the U.S. Military Cemetery from WWII and pay your respects to those who died for our country in the bloodiest war ever fought.

3. French Fries

French Fries are always a good idea and people from Belgium will let you know that they are in fact a Belgian dish! Some of the best french fries you will find will be in Brussels. This city is known for this delicious fare and it is the perfect excuse to make a meal out of this snack. Some of the best places to find fries in Belgium include Fritland, Frit Flagey, Maison Antoine, Friterie du Miroir and many others. Have your fries with the perfect sauce and a cold Belgian beer and you will be in culinary heaven.

2. Brussels

Brussels is a primarily French-speaking city loaded with history, architecture, art and culture. While here it is very important to enjoy some local delights that you may already know that you enjoy; chocolates, french fries, waffles, beers and mussels. While in Brussels, make sure to visit some of the famous landmarks and sites including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Grand Place, Manneken Pis Statue, the Atomium and Mini-Europe. Discover one of the most underrated cities in the world and enjoy all Brussels has to offer.

1. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most exciting cities in the world. It has everything; culture, food, beer, shopping, art, friendly people and even picturesque canals around the city. The city has great transportation and you can travel freely around the city using buses, Amsterdam Holland_1111_dt_5651561trams and metros. Some of the best things to do in Amsterdam include a canal cruise, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, Red Light District and the Flower Market. One of the best parts of travel is food, so while in Amsterdam you must try street waffles, bitterballen, beer, raw herring, Dutch licorice and Indonesian Rijstaffel, which is an array of small Indonesian dishes that were first invented to let colonials sample traditional dishes. Most importantly, have a great time in one of my personal favorite cities in the world!

EuropeSmall Group Discoveries

Turin: One of Italy’s Best Kept Secrets

on March 23, 2018

Equally elegant and hip, the Piedmont capital of Turin is one of Italy’s most surprising cities. Fanciful tree-lined avenues lead to art deco cafes and Renaissance, baroque, rococo, and neoclassical facades. Splendid art galleries and opera houses serve as the cherished repositories of northern Italian culture. And public squares, neatly tended gardens, stately castles and grand palaces that were built between the 16th and 18th centuries recall Turin’s heyday as the glittering capital of the House of Savoy. Discovery Tours’ new Cinque Terre, Parma, Bologna & Lakes itinerary unveils its treasures.

Turin was built on the prosperity of the House of Savoy, the longest ruling dynasty in all of Europe (1003 to 1946). The scope of their territory ebbed and flowed over the course of their reign, comprising lands that today straddle the borders of Italy, France, and Switzerland and at various points stretching to Sicily, Sardinia, Spain, and other parts of Italy. During much of that time, their power was concentrated here, in Turin, and their legacy endures.

A glimpse at the Royal Palace of Turin, built in the 1500s under the Savoys, gives you an idea of how much power the dynasty wielded. This magnificent baroque building on the Piazza Castello is a splendid showcase of tapestries, historic weaponry, and stunning Chinese and Japanese vases. Most notably, the famous Shroud of Turin—the linen cloth believed to bear the image of Jesus—is housed in the palace’s Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. This historic treasure was in the Savoys’ possession from 1453 to 1946.

But Turin holds more—many more—royal remnants, and they have jointly been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the “Residences of the Royal House of Savoy.” You will see another, the Palazzo Madama, adjacent to the Royal Palace. This grand structure with its ornate façade was the seat of the first Senate of the Italian Kingdom.

Turin’s many piazzas evoke the spirit of those found in Rome—they are at once grand and gracious and utterly designed for Italian citizens. Piazza San Carlo, the most popular, has been called the “Italian Living Room” for the many events that are staged here, including segments from the 2006 Winter Olympics, when the city hosted the Games. Nearby, Piazza Carol Alberto is another point of pride for the Torinesi: it hosts the prestigious National Library, the former apartment of philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, and an imposing equestrian statue of King of Sardinia, Carlo Alberto of Savoy.

Today, Turin is known to many Italians as the “Cradle of Italian Liberty” as it was the birthplace of many who contributed to Italian unification. It is also celebrated as the home of car manufacturer Fiat and the place where the world’s first hard chocolate was put up for sale.

Uncover Italy’s remarkable city of surprises with Discovery Tours during our new Cinque Terre, Parma, Bologna & Lakes tour!

Travel Tips

The Perks of Work: Employee Travel Testimonial – Iceland

on March 22, 2018

Iceland is a travel destination that has become quite popular within the last few years, and for good reason. Adventure, natural beauty, culture and affordable flights and accommodations, make it the perfect new destination to explore! Candice S., our very own Marketing Manager here at Gate 1 Travel, discovered Iceland in January, and we couldn’t wait to ask her about it. After this Q&A highlighting her experience, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and see this captivating country for yourself!

1. Why did you choose the Iceland trip and what had you heard about these places that made you decide on it?
Seeing the Northern Lights and swimming in the Blue Lagoon were on my Bucket List, and Iceland is a place where I could potentially do both, so this trip was perfect.

Blue Lagoon2. Iceland is becoming one of the most popular international travel destinations, how was that reflected in your trip?
There were tour buses and tourists in all of the spots we visited, but it did not feel crowded at all. The bars, restaurants, and city streets were not crowded either. The airport is very small so it felt a little full because of its size and the amount of people that want to visit the country! Other than the airport, it was very easy to get around.

3. What were some of the highlights of your trip?
I wanted to be sure to go swimming in the Blue Lagoon while it was still dark out. It was amazing to see the mist and steam coming off of the water, then to watch the Gulfoss Falls2progression as the sun rose. I also wanted to get an in-water massage while snow was falling on my face. I then drank champagne immediately after in the lagoon, which was definitely a highlight! Gullfoss Falls were so beautiful and incredible to see as well.

4. What was your favorite location on the trip?
I would have to say the Blue Lagoon because it was a lot of fun and gorgeous at the same time. I also enjoyed roaming around the street of Reykjavik, which are very walk-able, and peeking into the shops. I loved wandering around the neighborhoods to see how the Icelandic locals live and move around their city.

5. What was your favorite meal or what food did you have that you really enjoyed or felt was very authentic?
I loved my last meal in Iceland at Sægreifinn. It was very picturesque and I loved that it was right by the Seaborrn2water. It also has a cozy, fisherman’s feel inside and their lobster soup was delicious. I also enjoyed the caramelized popcorn and avocado fries at Sætasvínið, a delicious hot dog with onions two-ways from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, and the Fisherman’s Stew at Icelandic Street Food.

6. How was the shopping and did you visit anywhere specifically great for shopping?
I didn’t do much shopping at all. I did purchase a lava rock necklace to put my essential oils in. I purchased birch, volcanic ash, glacier ice soap, and dried fish treats to bring home as a souvenir. Also, Icelandic beer!

Icelandic Street Food7. What travel tips would you give to someone preparing to go on this trip? 
Save up – the food and beverages are very expensive. It may be inexpensive to get to Iceland, but it is expensive to be in Iceland because most things are imported. Also, make sure to pack layers, as you can experience all four seasons on some days, especially if going in the winter and going on excursions. Try and visit a natural geothermal pool, such as the Secret Lagoon, so you can experience both a smaller more private pool in addition to the Blue Lagoon. Book excursions, but don’t be disappointed if they are canceled. The weather in Iceland during the winter is very finicky and weather conditions may prohibit excursions.

Church8. How did you prepare for this trip?
I packed warm clothing (wool socks, fleece undershirts and leggings, hand and feet warmers, etc.), set proper expectations regarding spending money while in Iceland, and was ready to have a good time!

9. Would you go back to Iceland and would you recommend this trip to family/friends?
Yes!

10. What did you feel was the overall theme of your trip?
Winter – Snow, ice, wind, sleet, and clouds. But it made everything so beautiful and authentically Icelandic!!!

#G1PhotoFriday

Coasting through Venice, Italy

on March 16, 2018

Venice, Italy is one of the most unique and popular tourist destinations in all of the world. Canals, gondolas, bridges and a lack of cars and roads are all reasons to visit. Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge are some of the favorite landmarks located on this collection of 100+ islands connected by bridges.

venezia

This week’s #g1photofriday was submitted by user @squaregrouper2 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This dreamy view was taken of Venice in Northwestern Italy. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Italy trips here!

#G1PhotoFriday

The Underrated Beauty of Lisbon, Portugal

on March 2, 2018

Lisbon, Portugal has been overlooked in the past due to the popularity of its big neighbor; Spain. There is no better time than now to visit this beautiful country and all it has to offer. Wine, art, culture and seafood are all reasons that Portugal is a must visit for 2018! If that isn’t enough, Portugal also has beautiful weather and uses the Euro!

lisbon
This week’s #g1photofriday was submitted by user @mrs_manuel59 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This colorful view was taken in Lisbon, Portugal on the Iberian Peninsula. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Portugal trips here!

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