Morocco delivers a unique mix of nature, numerous types of food, and a rich culture. From the hills of the Rif mountains to the palm springs, these scenes and adventures will surely live up to your expectations!
Record-Breaking Tourism Growth
Morocco has long been a favorite among travelers, but 2025 has taken its popularity to a whole new level. Just four months into the year, the country is seeing an unprecedented tourism boom. In January 2025, the country welcomed 27% more visitors than in the same month of 2024. This trend continued throughout the year, with the country now reporting up to 4 million tourists at the end of March. This number has increased by 22% compared to this time last year. Let’s take a closer look at what’s drawing the world to Morocco in record numbers.
Delicious Tastes
When people think of Moroccan cuisine, they often think of the famous couscous and tajine. These two meals only scratch the surface; Morocco offers a diverse landscape of bold flavors and time-honored recipes waiting to be explored. Travelers on our 9 Day Tastes of Morocco Tour have the option to take part in a hands-on cooking class, complete with a carriage ride to set the scene. During the class, participants will learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan tajine and fresh, flavorful salads.
Explore Morocco’s Cultural Heritage
Morocco has done a fantastic job in preserving its history. Travelers on our 8 Day Essential Morocco Tour can experience this by visiting the Oudaya National Museum of Ornaments. This museum showcases a collection of traditional Moroccan jewelry, textiles, and decorative arts. Your journey continues the next day with a trip to the historic city of Fez, which served as the capital of Morocco for more than 400 years. While in Fez, travelers can view remarkable landscapes such as the Attarine Medersa, Moulay Idriss mausoleum, and the Nejjarine Fountains and Museum.
The Natural Wonders of Morocco
What makes Morocco truly special is its beautiful landscapes that stretch throughout the country. Travelers on our 12 Day Marrakesh & Northern Morocco featuring the Blue City, Chefchaouen Tour will have the opportunity to view numerous beautiful locations. On the way to Cap Spartel, enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. But that’s not all, travelers will get to visit both the city of Tetouan and Chefchaouen, other known as “The Blue Pearl.” Both cities are nestled in Morocco’s Rif Mountains. You can even experience the local animal life up-close by riding a dromedary, a member of the camel family. Experience the tranquility of the Palmeraie, a palm oasis outside of Marrakesh, through authentic experiences rooted in the local Berber customs and culture.
Conclusion
Morocco’s tourism boom is no surprise! The mouthwatering cuisine, deep-rooted history, and breathtaking landscapes all make the country an enticing place to visit. Whether you’re admiring historical Moroccan arts or riding a dromedary through a palm oasis, Morocco will leave you with lasting memories etched in your heart. With a variety of travel styles and packages available, Gate 1 is ready to help you get your trip to Morocco booked today!
In Case You Missed It: Recently, we were featured in Cruise Critic. After experiencing one of our European River Cruises, Cruise Critic‘s Marilyn Borth shared her thoughts and review of the trip. Read on to see what she had to say about our ship the Monarch Baroness.
Gate1 monarch Queen and Barones
Monarch Baroness Review
by Marilyn Borth | Cruise Critic Editor Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 – Very Good
First built in 2013 and partially renovated in 2018, Monarch Baroness boasts Gate 1 Travel’s tagline in dramatic crimson letters on its white hull: “More of the World for Less.” The slogan acts as both a welcome and a reassurance to all who embark, an implication that the ship is no outlier to Gate 1’s unwavering mission to provide affordable travel without sacrificing immersive experiences, comfort and enjoyment.
Gate 1 was first founded in 1981 as a land-based tour company, and has since placed emphasis on the destinations visited and the people who are along for the journey. With over 40 years of experience, it’s really no surprise that they pivoted into the river cruising industry as well — and now offer a well-oiled river product. Monarch Baroness, which is one of six vessels in Gate 1’s river fleet, is no exception. The line’s full fleet includes the river ships Monarch Empress, Monarch Princess, Monarch Governess, Monarch Countess, Monarch Duchess, and Monarch Baroness.
The 172-passenger Monarch Baroness transports guests along idyllic European waterways, like the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers, in a comfortable manner while offering organized daily shore excursions (mostly walking or coach tours) along with fun onboard activities. Gate 1 has a strict policy of only employing local guides, a major selling point for most die-hard Gate 1 travelers. These local guides only augment experiences in ports of call, adding a local’s perspective, something that, to guests, is irreplicable.
But the ship itself offers plenty to do — or not to do — while sailing between ports of call. Activities on board Monarch Baroness vary from trivia and open mic night to game shows like Who Want to Be a Millionaire and Family Feud. The ship also offers plenty of destination-themed enrichment, which typically includes performances from local speakers and artists, like a German zither player and Frank Sinatra duo band who came onboard the ship.
Monarch Baroness may not be the most youthful of the Gate 1 pack, but it appears to have aged very well. There’s little to no wear and tear; furniture is in impeccable condition in cabins and public spaces, no carpets are fraying and rust was never visible. All of this is thanks to the partial renovation, yes, but mostly to the meticulous staff who maintain the ship around the clock.
Staff clean the ship almost constantly, and can be seen wiping down handrails, mopping the stairs, cleaning the sliding glass doors and leaving no tables with dirty martini glasses or crumbs from snacks. The staff and crew are unequivocally professional, but they also quickly become popular members on the ship. One particularly admired staff member even sang karaoke on open mic night, to which the crowd roared with applause and chanted his name.
Monarch Baroness may not be labeled luxury, but it does curiously supply some impressive luxurious touches.
Monarch Baroness may not be labeled luxury, but it does curiously supply some impressive luxurious touches. Guests are welcome to drink unlimited sparkling wine with breakfast, which is typical of mostly luxury river lines like Avalon Waterways, and staff members pay close attention to every individual onboard, memorizing dietary restrictions, drink preferences, first names and nearly anything and everything else.
Free tea, coffee, hot chocolate and cookies are available 24/7 in both coffee stations on board for those feeling peckish between meals. And yes, we tried the cookies and, while they reminded us of simple packaged cookies from the supermarket, tasted delicious — and consistently so during the many tastings we indulged in throughout our nine days on board. Basic Wi-Fi was available throughout the ship, too, and if you needed to use it for more than one device, the front desk could provide you a second password free of charge.
There are some “old school” touches on Monarch Baroness that warrant some head-tilting. These flairs are ubiquitous, including wood paneling in every area, dated upholstery patterns and the overused “waves” on corridor carpeting. Even the dishware in the dining room is ho-hum. But, for a ship that aims to emphasize experiences over the transportation’s glam, Monarch Baroness’ decor is more than fine for its passengers.
The mostly American passengers on board, who range from late 40s to late 70s, are new to river cruising but have typically done several land-based tours with Gate 1 in the past. Guests are like-minded and active, sharing an eagerness to explore the world and meet new people along the way without a hint of pretension. And don’t let the age range lead you to assumptions — these folks know how to have a good time and many stay up to drink or indulge in the on board activities in the Panorama Lounge post-dinner.
“We love to have fun onboard,” said our hotel manager during our orientation happy hour, which perfectly set the tone for the duration of our sailing.
“We love to have fun onboard,” said our hotel manager during our orientation happy hour, which perfectly set the tone for the duration of our sailing. The atmosphere is light-hearted, friendly, laidback and fun-centric. There are no formal nights and no dress codes. Guests can expect to step on board and simply have fun with old and new friends on a ship built for comfort — sans pretentiousness — and to get you to your must-see destinations.
Monarch Baroness sails the Rhine, Danube and Main Rivers in Europe, calling on a variety of ports from 15 countries. Itineraries can last anywhere from nine to 16 days, but those that are longer in length typically include a pre- or post-cruise land extension or sometimes both.
Our 11-day itinerary began with a pre-cruise extension, which included two and a half days in two places the ship couldn’t reach: Zurich and Lucerne in Switzerland. We boarded Monarch Baroness in Basel afterwards, then the remaining nine days were spent snaking through mostly Germany, stopping at only one small town in France (Strasbourg), and capping at Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
According to our cruise director, “More than 70 percent of our river cruise customers book one of the longer versions of our cruise sailings with pre- or post-cruise land tour experiences.”
These two- or three-night additions cost roughly $500 to $700 per person, but offer even more on top of the cruise itself, often visiting places not included in shore excursions or river cruise itineraries. And since most cruisers are already seasoned land tourists with Gate 1, it seems only fitting for most that they have the best of both worlds: land and river.
Monarch Baroness fares are some of the most affordable available on European rivers, being 20 to 40 percent less expensive than other major European-based river cruise lines.
Monarch Baroness fares are some of the most affordable available on European rivers, being 20 to 40 percent less expensive than other major European-based river cruise lines when comparing the same itinerary, cabin type and travel season.
Monarch Baroness’ four decks are easy to navigate and laid out in a straightforward way, and their arguably overliteral names are reflections of this: Main Deck (first or bottom deck), Middle Deck (second), Upper Deck (third) and Sun Deck (top or fourth). Middle Deck holds reception, the tour guide office and the sole restaurant onboard. Main Deck is the only deck with a contradictory title, implying a gathering place or public room, yet it only holds the fitness center and 18 cabins. The decks where passengers truly congregate aboard Monarch Baroness are Sun Deck and Upper Deck.
The beating heart of the ship is unequivocally the main lounge, called the Panorama Lounge but more colloquially referred to on board as simply “The Lounge,” on the Upper Deck where daily port talks are held along with all lectures, performances, games and events. The library and main bar are located here as well, the latter of which closes around 11 p.m. most nights, and where guests gravitate when they’re looking to pair a chat with a cold one. Drinks are affordable, too (there are no drink packages for purchase), with a glass of wine being six Euros and a typical cocktail landing at about 10 Euros.
Guests gather while sailing and the weather is agreeable to gaze at the panoramic views of European waterways and surrounding landscapes.
The Lido Terrace, found just outside the Panorama Lounge forward, allows guests a front row seat to the bow along with an outdoor staircase up to the Sun Deck, which is where guests gather while sailing and the weather is agreeable, to gaze at the panoramic views of European waterways and surrounding landscapes.
Sun Deck provides plenty of seating options, most of which have “sun sails,” a.k.a. large umbrellas to block out the sun and rain. These sails are raised and lowered depending on bridge clearances. No outdoor plush couches are available like on Avalon Imagery II, for example, but again, this is not a premium or luxury river cruise; simple tables and chairs here do just fine.
There’s also no hot tub or pool available (there once was a jacuzzi on the Sun Deck, but that was removed during a refurbishment). A giant chess set is available for entertainment, but that’s about it.
One miss that stood out was the walking path, which is nothing more than a small circle on the very front third of the Sun Deck. During our sailing, guests were seen walking around the entire deck instead of limiting themselves to the small walking circle.
Sun Deck aft’s staircase leads down to the indoor Back Lounge, located on Upper Deck, a popular location mid-sailing for guests looking to read, play board or card games with a small group of friends or converse quietly with fellow travelers.
The Back Lounge has nice touches, like a 24/7 coffee station, an ice maker, various board games, comfortable seating, floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides and even a large sky light. There’s also a small seating area outside the Back Lounge aft, which is the main smoking area on board, but ship fumes are the most pungent here amongst all outdoor spaces.
Moving deck to deck is possible via uncarpeted stairs or elevator/stairlift. The elevator is available midship on the Main Deck, Middle Deck and Upper Deck. Between the Upper Deck and Sun Deck, there is a stairlift on one of the outdoor staircases. The stairlift is not shielded from the elements.
The 90 cabins on board are spread out on the Main Deck, Middle Deck and Upper Deck, with five cabin types: single cabins, outside cabins with windows, outside cabins with French balconies, Deluxe Suites and the Owner’s Suite.
The Main Deck holds all eight single cabins and 10 outside cabins with windows. The single cabins make for excellent options for solo travelers as they are the only cabins on board that don’t come with a hefty single supplement fee — and come with a good amount of space to boot at 118 square feet.
Outside cabins with windows, which measure 125 square feet, are great options for couples or other duos traveling together who don’t want to shell out extra money for outside cabins with a French balcony. Both single cabins and outside cabins with windows feature two small windows at the top of the wall just above the waterline.
The 59 total outside cabins with French balconies on Monarch Baroness are split on the Middle Deck (39 cabins) and Upper Deck (20 cabins). With a square footage of 165, outside cabins with French balconies are the best of both worlds: comfortable living spaces with private views of lush landscapes and quaint towns.
The Upper Deck, alongside the chunk of outside cabins with French balconies, also holds all of the suites on board, including the one Owner’s Suite, which is at a whopping 330 square feet, and the 12 Deluxe Suites with French balconies, which are 250 square feet.
We found the Deluxe Suites to be the most pleasurable cabins to stay in on board, as they’re complete with large beds, impressive storage space (closet, four drawers, four cabinets and space beneath the bed), a French balcony accompanied by a floor-to-ceiling window, a quaint living area with a table, sofa and chair, and a large bathroom with a bathtub (smaller cabins only come with a shower). They’re also placed strategically where little noise can be caught from larger public spaces.
All cabins on Monarch Baroness have the following amenities regardless of their size: a flat screen TV, a telephone, built-in safe in the closet, hairdryer and individual climate control. bathrooms all feature high-end L’Occitane bath products. Cabins in the Upper Deck also come with a mini-fridge.
Cabins are cleaned twice daily and make excellent use of the space.
Cabins are cleaned twice daily and make excellent use of the space, but they aren’t free from the “dated” elements mentioned earlier, including upholstery patterns, wood-paneling and dark, moody curtains.
As is typical for a majority of river cruise ships, there is only one restaurant aboard Monarch Baroness, located on the Middle Deck forward. Guests can eat a buffet-style breakfast, buffet-style lunch and a five-course dinner here.
Breakfast always has a special of the day, some of which during our sailing included eggs benedict, French toast and waffles. One designated cook is on standby with two pans to cook up any egg requests on the spot, whether they be a complicated omelet or simple over easy eggs. If guests have early morning excursions (prior to 7 a.m. when breakfast opens), staff prepares packaged breakfast for them to bring along.
The buffet breakfast offers both American and European classic breakfast staples, such as scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, a variety of sliced cheeses, sliced cured meats, several types of bread (complete with a toaster), and even smoked salmon and capers. There’s also Chinese-style rice congee with all the fixings available.
Lunch is also buffet-style with American and European flair, although many guests on our sailing chose to have their lunch at their visited port of call to make the most of their stop. Dinner is the more widely anticipated meal, being that it has five courses and is the only one with table service. The five courses entail a cold appetizer, soup, hot appetizer, entree and dessert. Wine and beer were included in the meal — and our grinning servers always kept the wine flowing.
And everything was delectable…. The staff was impressively cognizant of dietary restrictions and preferences.
“German Night” was the only dinner served that was without service and five courses — and that was perfectly fine with all on board because of how unique a dinner it was. “German Night” was a buffet served while we coasted through the country on the Rhine, and was complete with German staples, like bratwurst, sausages galore, sauerkraut, and even a whole suckling pig.
And everything was delectable. The decorations were an added bonus, including the multiple German flags hanging from the ceiling and the activity host’s festive lederhosen (and the bottle of local German liqueur in the front pocket).
The staff was impressively cognizant of dietary restrictions and preferences, even insofar to supply laminated cards, clearly displaying restrictions (Vegan, Gluten Free, etc.) for guests to lay on their table top at meals.
Cookies, coffee and tea were available in the two coffee stations between meals. Occasionally, there would be a “tea time” in the Panorama Lounge, serving small treats typical of afternoon tea.
Dubai is a gleaming gem of a city in the United Arab Emirates and is often most known and celebrated for its futuristic skyscrapers and modern luxurious lifestyle. But don’t let the looks deceive you – the contemporary city’s foundation is deeply rooted in history and tradition. Gate 1 Travel takes you through the heart of Dubai’s culture and introduces you to the old and the new in this eclectic and exciting city.
Bastakiya: History Meets Art
One of the key neighborhoods in Old Dubai is Bastakiya, a winding labyrinth renowned for its wind-tower architecture and narrow alleyways. This historic quarter provides a serene contrast to the big soaring skyscrapers that dominate the landscape. Wander through this district’s picturesque streets, visit the art galleries, dine in boutique cafes, and enjoy the beautiful old-world charm.
Al Fahidi Fort: Step into the Past
Al Fahidi Fort, dating back to the late 18th century, is a quintessential landmark in Old Dubai. Nestled amidst Bastakiya, the restored fort houses the Dubai Museum, offering a captivating glimpse into the city’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a global metropolis. Explore the exhibits to learn about the traditional Bedouin life, the history of pearl diving, and the growth of Dubai’s current iconic skyline.
Sharjah: Embracing Emirati Culture
Right next door to Dubai the city of Sharjah stands as the cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates. It offers a glimpse into the traditional Emirati lifestyle, culture, and customs. Explore the bustling souks with spices and local crafts, or take in views of the harbor with its traditional dhow boats during a stroll along the Comiche. Passengers on the 8 Day Classic Dubai Escorted Tour will get a chance to witness for themselves the power of Sharjah’s commitment to preserving Emirati tradition amid the rapid pace of modernization.
Jumeirah Palm: Modern Marvels by the Sea
In stark contrast to the 18th century structures and historic traditions, Jumeirah Palm stands out as an engineering marvel unlike anything else in the world. This man-made island extends into the Arabian Gulf and is home to luxury hotels, fashion boutiques, and fine dining restaurants. Visitors can indulge in world-class amenities, unwind on pristine beaches, or embark on a sunset cruise to admire the city’s skyline in this opulent neighborhood that seeks to redefine coastal living.
Dubai Marina: A Skyline of the Future
The most iconic structures forming the ultra-modern skyline of Dubai are able to be found in the Dubai Marina. This bustling waterfront district is where cutting-edge architecture meets vibrant urban living. Visit trendy cafes and designer shops and take in the views of the stunning skyscrapers illuminated against the night sky as you stroll along the promenades or sail the coastline in a dhow boat.
Dubai’s unique allure lies not only in the ultra-modern or in the cultural history of years gone by. The true magic of this city’s draw is in the perfect blend of both. Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, or looking for some luxury, Dubai will something to satisfy your tastes. Browse all of Gate 1 Travel’s Dubai packages and get ready to embark on a voyage through the past, present, and future of the United Arab Emirates.
Egyptian temples stand as timeless monuments, embodying the grandeur and mystique of ancient worlds. Each stone tells a story of devotion, power, and architectural brilliance, inviting modern travelers to embark on a journey through history. Here are some of the most iconic and inspiring temples open to visitors in Egypt today.
Luxor Temple: Amun, Mut, and Khonsu
The Luxor Temple is located at the heart of ancient Thebes. Dedicated to the Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, it mesmerizes visitors with its colossal statues, imposing pylons, and intricately carved reliefs. Many visitors feel that Luxor Temple exudes a surreal aura, transporting you to a bygone era of divine worship and royal ceremonies.
Edfu Temple: Horus the Avenger
Nestled on the west bank of the Nile, the Edfu Temple stands as one of the best-preserved shrines in Egypt, dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus. Built during the Ptolemaic period, this temple is a masterpiece of Greco-Egyptian architecture, adorned with elaborate inscriptions that narrate the mythic struggle between Horus and his nemesis, Seth.
Philae Temple: The Goddess Isis
Philae Temple enchants visitors with its sublime beauty. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this island sanctuary served as a center of pilgrimage and worship for millennia. The 1960’s construction of the Aswan Dam prompted an effort to preserve Philae Temple, seeing it relocated to a new island one piece at a time. Today it still stands as a testament to the importance of preserving heritage.
Abu Simbel Temples: Rameses II and Nefertari
In the desolate sands of Nubia rise the colossal Abu Simbel Temples, commissioned by the mighty pharaoh Ramses II to immortalize his reign and deify his glory. Carved into the cliffs overlooking Lake Nasser, the twin temples of Abu Simbel are dedicated to Ramses II himself and his beloved queen, Nefertari. This is just one of the many awe-inspiring stops on our 13 Day Crown of Egypt with 7 Day First Class Nile Cruise.
Temple of Kom Ombo: Sobek and Horus the Elder
The Temple of Kom Ombo is a unique architectural marvel dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile deity, and Horus the Elder. It features symmetrical design elements, twin entrances, courts, and sanctuaries dedicated to each deity. The walls of Kom Ombo Temple are adorned with exquisite reliefs offering insights into ancient Egyptian medicine and religious beliefs.
Temple of Karnak: Amun
No exploration of Egyptian temples would be complete without a visit to Karnak. Dedicated to the god Amun, Karnak Temple is a vast ensemble of sanctuaries, pylons, obelisks, and hypostyle halls that reflect the contributions of pharaohs spanning over a millennium. Visitors can’t help but be awestruck by the scale and ambition of ancient Egyptian architecture and religious devotion.
In conclusion, Egyptian temples are not merely architectural wonders but living testimonies to the spiritual, artistic, and cultural legacy of an extraordinary civilization. You can experience all of this wonder and so much more for yourself on a Gate 1 Escorted Tour of Egypt. Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of Luxor Temple or contemplating the mysteries of Abu Simbel, Gate 1 escorted tours offer impactful experiences with the timeless allure of ancient Egypt that are sure to stay with you for a lifetime.
No matter where your travels take you, it will be nearly impossible to match the rich culture and cuisine that is found in eastern Africa. For those who have traveled this route, they would agree that this side of Africa has electric energy made even more apparent by its perfectly-posed wildlife and fearless safari leaders.
Needless to say, it is important to get out of your comfort zone on your travels. Eastern Africa does this extremely well, introducing its culture to curious travelers wanting a peek at this side of the continent.
What Is Waiting for You in Terms of Culture
Peruse Local Markets and Historical Sites
While eastern Africa has a wide stretch of open land ideal for wildlife to thrive, it also has been habituated by a lively people group whose culture is evident for all. Kigali City, the capital of Rwanda, is an excellent example of this, with its modern feel connecting current residents to the city’s past. One event, in particular, that is honored here is Rwanda’s genocide, which visitors can learn about in more depth at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Diving deeper into the culture, travelers can stroll through the local craft market to purchase locally-created items ranging from baskets to dolls to bracelets. Support the local economy and learn about the story behind these souvenirs to make your visit even more meaningful.
Peer Into the Lives of Gorillas
Eastern Africa’s culture is very closely tied to its wildlife. You’ll have the chance to learn about this connection more intimately as you embark on a gorilla trek with experienced rangers. Having curated this activity to be as sustainable as possible, visitors are led on a hike lasting up to 7 hours, trekking through the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Many would argue that there is nothing more surreal than camouflaging with your surroundings while searching for a secluded gorilla family. After spotting a family of these great apes, you’ll be allotted an hour to watch them do life, which largely consists of eating and playing.
Say Yes to Monkey Business
Home to the distinguishable and, quite frankly, adorable Golden monkeys is none other than the highland forests of Volcanoes National Park. While you’ll experience a variety of wildlife on this trek, your main purpose is to catch a glimpse of these playful primates. Given their current endangered status, this remarkable experience will be one that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Experience Additional Wildlife on Game Drives
What brings most travelers to Africa is its plethora of safaris promising front-row views to hair-raising wildlife. If this was your motivation to travel to Africa, you’re in luck. Eastern Africa is home to a plethora of reserves and national parks that strive to protect these species while also providing a safe opportunity for foreigners to experience them up close and personal.
A few locations you’ll spot this wildlife in during your game drives include Masai Mara National Reserve, Serengeti National Park, Amboseli National Park, and more. Keep your eyes peeled for rhinos, lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards.
Before you leave, conquer your fear of heights by signing up for a sunrise balloon safari. Elevated above the vast landscape, you’ll be able to spot these majestic creatures from a new angle. If this isn’t convincing enough, you’ll also receive a champagne breakfast upon your safe landing.
What Is Waiting for You in Terms of Cuisine
Sample Local Coffee
Coffee has deep routes in eastern Africa, specifically in Ethiopia. Of course, this phenomenon spread worldwide, but it is still vastly celebrated in its more natural form in Africa. Kigali City in Rwanda has capitalized on this worldwide beverage, serving a sweet and savory flavor in its many coffee shops. During your travels, indulge in coffee the Rwandan way in one of its many aesthetic shops.
Take a Local Cooking Class
When in eastern Africa, you’ll likely feel inspired by the diverse cuisine. Form a deeper connection to the local culture by enrolling in a cooking class to discover how they prepare some of their most renowned dishes. You’ll gain a broad overview of the larger cuisine offerings, creating a bucket list of recipes to indulge in once more before your travels come to an end.
Indulge in These Favorite Dishes
Although your cooking class will provide a great introduction to the region’s famed dishes, there is never any harm in coming prepared with a list of recipes that you can’t leave without trying. One dish that reigns supreme in Kenya is matoke, a mixture of fried bananas, onions, tomatoes, and sauce.
In Tanzania, don’t miss out on a local favorite: mandazi. Bearing the appearance of a beignet sans powdered sugar, mandazi is fried bread that makes for a sugary treat. Some other popular foods to try throughout your trip include ugali, tibs, and mshikaki. Eastern Africa is an influential destination with a mixture of culture, cuisine, and wildlife that never ceases to inspire travelers. The aforementioned activities can all be experienced through our 15-day tour through Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda, but there are countless other trips led through eastern Africa that share similarities with this itinerary, all of which are exuding with culture.
Japan is a country whose outer facade is intimidating to many. With culturally-contrasting traditions, an unfamiliar alphabet system, and matchless temples competing against scenes of nature, this environment often introduces travelers to an entirely new paradigm of life. With travel being a universally-known way to expand one’s horizons, Japan certainly makes headlines on this topic.
What might look like a small cluster of islands on a world map actually turns out to be a blooming hub of culture and enlightenment upon closer observation. However, it takes placing oneself in this environment to get a true feel for Japan’s charisma. The country has what seems to be an endless tally of communities to experience, but three, in particular, hold the hearts of travelers and tourists alike: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
While embarking on a Gate 1 tour through Japan, visitors can anticipate encountering prominent shrines and temples in the daylight while tasting Tokyo’s nightlife in the midnight sky. Mixed into these days are glimpses of Japanese imperial life and several samples of Japanese-style cuisine such as ramen, yakitori, or tempura .
Visit the Buzzing Capital: Tokyo
By day, its towering skyscrapers and far-off view of Mount Fuji’s peak take center stage. By night, its neon lights far exceeding those of New York City’s Times Square persuade visitors to stay up far past their curfew for a taste of its sensational nightlife scene. Tokyo has found a way to package up the best parts of traveling and serve them on a silver platter to incoming tourists. With its ancient traditions mixed with avant-garde technology, this travel-worthy capital gives a well-versed travel experience to the eager passenger.
Weaving between steep buildings, you’ll soon arrive at a handful of sites pointing to Japan’s imperial status. From the Meiji Shrine to the Imperial Palace to the Kannon Temple, there are a variety of regal and spiritual settings that are strewn throughout the city. Along this tour, take time to relish in the entertainment industry of Asakusa and the souvenir spotlight of Nakamise Street before later preparing yourself for hours of Tokyo’s nightlife.
Before moving on from Tokyo, visitors are encouraged to embark on a day trip to the nearby Mount Fuji and Hakone. On such an outing, you will be able to see Mount Fuji from a stone’s throw away, enjoy a boat cruise along Lake Ashi, and ascend in a cable car to view Hakone National Park from above.
Honor Japan’s Traditions: Kyoto
Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto paints a picture of more conservative times, still paying homage to the many traditions that comprised Japanese culture. After taking the famed bullet train to this destination, visitors are whisked away to the various time-honored locales, such as the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple reflecting ever so slightly on a pond. In the art of tradition and respecting the locals’ heritage, travelers may appreciate a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Through this momentous event, you will enjoy the art of this ritualized etiquette by preparing, serving, and drinking green tea. Later, you can explore Kyoto’s Geisha district at your leisure, traversing through shops, discovering tea houses, and spotting Geisha in ceremonial attire.
As you uncover these customs and admire the traditions of Japanese culture, you will also have the option to tour Hiroshima and Miyajima Island. A visit to these locations gives tourists the chance to honor the lives lost in this historic bombing and view the floating torii gate belonging to the Itsukushima Shrine.
Tour the Venice of the East: Osaka
Finishing out this trifecta of noteworthy locations in Japan is Osaka, a port city with center-city canals, patches of bridges, and waterways branding it as the ‘Venice of the East.’ Although the city is fairly modernized, its historical significance is not to be overlooked, with the Osaka Castle being one of the city’s most visited landmarks. Whether approaching by boat or foot, you will find this elevated building to transport you to ages past. Once inside, explore its collection of art, armor, and collectibles.
Upon diving back into the modern elements of Osaka, visitors can choose from an eclectic food scene throughout the city. Tour guides recommend a mandatory stop at Kuromon Market, a culturally-animating hall of some of Osaka’s finest fresh cuisine and Japanese-style fast food. At the market, travelers can try grilled scallops, tuna sushi, Kobe beef skewers, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. Trial the market’s various offerings before working off your sampling spree with some shopping on the streets of Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori.
In a final effort to soak in Japanese history and heritage, consider taking a tour to the 8th-century Imperial capital of Nara, home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, historic Buddhist temples, and over 1,000 free-roaming deer. The beautiful Kasuga Grand Shrine also reigns in this area, still honoring tradition and displaying bronze and stone lanterns throughout its premises. After observing numerous shrines and temples throughout your visit, the home of these lanterns might just turn out to be your favorite.
Imagine the perfect trip that provides a breathtaking snapshot of Europe’s natural splendors. One day, you explore one of the world’s best-preserved medieval cities with sweeping views of the glittering sea. Later, you ferry along a rugged shore dotted with more than 1,000 islands. A forested, mountainside wonderland is next, fed by a lush and soothing network of lakes and rivers. These mountains are just a prelude to the soaring Alps that you’ll soon encounter, a snow-capped ring overlooking a pristine, picture-perfect lake. And it’s all a sublime setting for some of the continent’s most enchanting and historic cultures.
There are few places in Europe that encompass such a wide range of natural beauty in such a compact area. But Croatia and Slovenia do—huddled along the Adriatic Sea and brimming with magnificent vistas that have long lured emperors and kings. Discovery Tours is eager to introduce you this spellbinding corner of Europe.
Dalmatia’s Dreamy Seascapes
The red-roofed medieval city of Dubrovnik is a wonder to behold. But half of its beauty can be credited to its spectacular setting on the blue Adriatic. The remarkably preserved enclave juts into the sea on a limestone promontory; temperamental waves lash at its rocky coast and ancient walls. Just 2,000 feet offshore, the long, green island of Lokrum rests like an apostrophe. Its one-third-square-mile expanse hides a lovely Botanical Garden that’s home to a lush gathering of Mediterranean flora.
North of Dubrovnik, the stunning island of Korcula lies off Croatia’s coast. Once you lay your eyes on its lovely medieval town and its stunning Adriatic setting, you have to wonder why Marco Polo wanted to leave his home island to embark upon a quarter-century of globe-trotting. But leave it he did.
There is a lot to savor on Korcula, including Renaissance palaces and the resplendent St. Mark’s Cathedral. Stonemasons, shipbuilders, and sea merchants all helped put this island on the map, injecting money and glory into its buildings and institutions. Aside from its rich culture of architecture and maritime endeavors, Korcula and its surrounding islands also boast a proud musical heritage. Its Klape singers, who indulge in a style of a cappella singing, carry tunes that date back to the 1800s.
Hvar is another enchanting island outpost. The island once served as a crossroads for trade between the Adriatic and Mediterranean. Its Old Town and cozy marina are a delight to explore, and its striking beauty of karst landscape, fertile plains, vast vineyards and sprawling fields of lavender has helped earn it a place as one of the world’s most gorgeous islands.
One of Hvar’s neighboring archipelagos, the Pakleni Islands, offers crystalline waters ideal for snorkeling. The islands’ name is typically translated as “Hell’s Islands.” But they are more likely named for “paklina,” the pine-resin tar that was once harvested from their shores to seal the hulls of ships. No matter what you might call them, don’t be fooled: this is a stunningly beautiful series of heaven-sent islets.
Croatia’s Mainland Marvels
Another spectacular locale lies inland. The Plitvice Lakes are among the world’s most magnificent natural wonders. Sixteen lakes terrace their way down a hillside high in the Dinaric Mountains, each one connected to the last via cascading waterfalls, caves, springs and chutes. The highest falls tumble some 230 feet. The string of lakes is almost five miles long, and over their lush course the waters fall a total of 430 feet. They vary in color from one terrace to the next—waters might flow from a turquoise lake into a green-hued pool, then into a gray basin. This phenomenon—created by the angle of the sun and the minerals and organisms in the water—lends a magical air to any visit. Raised wooden footpaths lead you through this astonishing wonderland.
Speaking of magical, Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula is one of Europe’s most delightful secrets. To be sure, the main draw of this wedge-shaped chunk of land is its magnificent coastline, hugged by cities whose architecture seems to speak more Venetian than Croatian. Here and there, a classic campanile – or bell tower – pierces the briny sea air, calling to mind Venice’s St. Mark’s Square. Even inland, amidst rolling vineyards and villages perched on hilltops, you would be forgiven if you suddenly believed you had unknowingly stumbled upon Tuscany.
Remnants of past civilizations are everywhere here, from Pula’s incredible 2,000-year-old amphitheater to Rovinj’s Venetian-style cityscape. And in Opatija, lavishly reclining along Adriatic shores near the tip of the Gulf of Kvarner, a seaside promenade tempts you into long strolls with spectacular views.
Slovenia’s Spectacles
Beyond the Tuscan-like landscapes of the Istrian Peninsula, Croatia’s terrain rises into Slovenia and the dramatic heights of the magnificent, snow-capped Julian Alps. Here lies what is perhaps Slovenia’s most splendid vista: Lake Bled. This alpine lake with a glass-like, azure surface enchants. A tiny island rests at its center, crowned by the lovely Assumption of Mary church with its wonderful collection of frescoes. A belfry tower houses the 16th-century “wishing bell,” often rung by freshly-wed couples after the groom has carried his bride up the stairs.
On the lake’s shores, the 11th-century Bled Castle overlooks the waters from a dramatic rocky perch, as moody and stunning as any fairytale abode. Nearby, the resort town of Bohinj serves as a launching pad for alpine treks and other outdoor activities. It is said that when invading Turks arrived at Bohinj, the region looked so primeval that they turned around for fear that they had reached the edge of the world. Not to worry—the dense woodlands and stunning landscapes are endlessly inviting and its farm-fresh cheeses are sublime.
Europe’s most beautiful vistas and most tantalizing medieval cities seem encapsulated in Croatia and Slovenia. And our Discovery Tours small group lets you experience them to their fullest. We invite you join us and discover them for yourself!
Raise your glass and raise your fork to Croatia’s fertile and prolific vineyards and farms.
Raise Your Glass!
Many travelers think of Croatia as a smaller version of Italy, right across the Adriatic. To be sure, this makes for similarly dreamy landscapes. It also means that the climate and earth of Croatia produce similarly dreamy vintages. Not to be left behind its vinicultural neighbor across the sea, Croatia boasts more than 300 demarcated wine districts.
Central and South Dalmatia. The hugely popular Zinfandel is descended from a grape grown here, the Plavac Mali.
North Dalmatia. This region is famous for the Babić grape, a native Croatian varietal that produces inky red wine of considerable tannin and strength. The grape is also found on the island of Korcula.
Istria. In the hillsides and valleys of Istria, Moscato, Trebbiano and Verduzzo grapes flourish.
Slavonia. This is the epicenter of Croatia’s most widely planted vine, the native Grasevina. This fresh, lightly aromatic white wine – sometimes aged in oak casks carved from native oak forests – is reminiscent of a Chardonnay.
Plesivica. On the steep, rocky slopes of this area, native vines produce Riesling and Chardonnay grapes.
Raise Your Fork!
We said earlier that Italy lies west across the Adriatic Sea from Croatia. Indeed, they share a lot in common, including a homegrown mix of agriculture, mari-culture, and viniculture that combine into a fresh farm-to-table cuisine. On land, fertile farms never stop yielding their bounty … by sea, the country’s fishing villages have long hauled in a generous and delicious catch. Here are some of our favorite Croatian dishes.
Gridele. The “straight off the gridele” preparation of oily Adriatic fish is simply divine. The fish is grilled with olive oil and fresh Mediterranean herbs over the wood from old grapevines or olive trees, for a deeply flavored dish.
Brodet. This light Croatian fish soup imparts the flavors of whichever catch of the day is used to make it – perhaps a whitefish like flounder, John Dory or red scorpionfish, or crab and shrimp. Polenta is often served on the side.
Pasticada. This Dalmatian specialty beef stew is seasoned with bacon and a sauce of herbs and vegetables. Potatoes, gnocchi, pasta, or rice and Swiss chard are often served on the side.
Fuži. Truffles are native to the Istrian peninsula, a luxurious addition to many Croatian dishes. They add a deep earthy flavor to pasta dishes and are wonderfully complemented by local parmigiano cheese.
Zganci. This polenta-like side dish is made from maize, wheat or buckwheat flour. Cooked zganci is crumbled on a plate and served with milk, yogurt, honey, or even the cracklings from bacon.
Scampi Buzara. This common dish from the north Adriatic is simple to cook and messy to eat. Unshelled shrimps are tossed in a light tomato sauce with shallots, garlic, wine and parsley. Grilled bread sops up any leftover sauce.
Prsut. This air-cured ham in Croatia is similar to Italian prosciutto. It makes for a light appetizer or a flavorful enhancement to main dishes.
Istarska Jota. Also known as Istrian stew, this dish gets its heartiness from beans and sauerkraut and showcases the surprising influence of Austria on Croatia’s cuisine.
Pod Pekom. Sometimes referred to as “under the bell” cooking, this traditional method of slow-roasting meat is used in many homes. Poultry, lamb, veal, or octopus is placed atop chopped potatoes and drizzled with various Mediterranean spices and olive oil. Then a sacz, or steel dome lid, is placed over it all so that the ingredients cook in their own juices. It makes for an incredibly tender and flavorful meal.
Zelena Menestra. Dubrovnik’s traditional green stew is mentioned in writings as far back as 1480. This rich and hearty dish is prepared with lots of bacon, sausage, ham hock, potatoes, cabbage and other vegetables.
Palacinke. These thin pancakes are stuffed with different sweet fillings.
Fritule. These donut-like fried pastries are a popular sweet, flavored with brandy, raisins, and citrus zest, and dusted with powdered sugar.
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.
Legend has it that some time long ago, the people who inhabited a dense forest in the Dinaric Mountains craved water. Their crops were drying up and they lived their days in thirst. And so one day under yet another cloudless, rainless sky, they called upon their magic queen for help. Hearing their plea, the merciful queen summoned the spirits to fill an earthen reservoir with water. The spirits answered with an abundant offering that filled the woodland basin to overflowing, causing water to spill over to form another lake down the hill … then another … and another … until a five-mile network of terraced lakes threaded its way through the forest like a glittering necklace.
Strolling through this spellbinding paradise of stepped lakes, you cannot help but feel as if you’ve found the key to an enchanted forest. More than a dozen lakes are linked by mossy waterfalls. The highest cascades are 230 feet and by the time the waters have made their journey from the first lake to the last, they have fallen 430 feet. One lake might shimmer a milky turquoise blue while another glimmers a green hue or a sludgy gray. It’s easy to imagine that tiny nymphs—or even the magic queen herself—reside in these woods.
You will visit Plitvice Lakes during our Dalmatian Isles, Croatia & Slovenia small-group journey. Like many visitors, you’re sure to be smitten with their fairytale atmosphere. And you might be quite satisfied by the notion that this watery wonderland was conjured into being by a magic queen. But you might also like to know that each lake’s distinctive color is created by minerals, microorganisms, and the angle of the sun. And that UNESCO added them to its World Natural Heritage List in 1979 for their “outstanding natural beauty and the undisturbed production of travertine (tufa) through chemical and biological action.”
These magnificent lakes, you see—if you believe the geologists over the storytellers—were formed with the passing of millennia rather than with just one incantation. As waters flowed over limestone and chalk, they deposited rocky barriers along their pathway, creating a series of mossy natural dams. Behind the dams, water built up to create lake after beautiful lake. A rich and rare ecosystem evolved around this astonishing string of azure and aqua-green pearls. The European brown bear, lynx, golden eagle, wolf, lizard, and turtle call the lakes home. More than 50 mammal species, 320 types of butterfly, 157 bird species, and numerous fish make this a hugely diverse corner of Croatia.
You’re sure to fall under the spell of Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes, the enduring gift of a magic queen.
