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Gate 1 ConnectionsMediterranean

Egypt: Luxury on the Nile

on August 12, 2019

See the pages of history books come to life in this mythical country in the Middle East. Hieroglyphics, mummies, tombs and the Great Sphinx become a reality when visiting Egypt and you will see them all and much more with Gate 1 Travel. This country has skyrocketed into popularity recently and there is no better time to visit this country than now. Your itinerary consists of the best experiences of Egypt including the Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Aswan and more. Join us as we navigate the Nile and land of the pharaohs.

Experience a luxurious Nile River cruise on the MS Esplanade. This ship has 5-star accommodations and includes a pool, bar, spa, laundry, boutique, restaurant and much more. Cabins include an LED TV with satellite channels, safe, individually controlled air conditioning and internet connection. You will be whisked away from place to place all while admiring the spectacular scenery of the Nile Valley passing by. Imagine visiting some of the oldest temples in the world by day such as Kom Ombo, Edfu and Luxor, and returning to your luxurious ship at night to eat, rest and relax. It is a true dream vacation.

Cairo: Your Gateway to the Secrets of Egypt

Welcome to a city that is a true mix of ancient and modern, in the capital of the country: Cairo. While in Cairo, perhaps explore independently or join the optional half day Egyptian Museum and Citadel tour. The museum contains the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts and has more than 120,000 items on display! Some of the most famous items include actual mummies of Ancient Egyptian royalty and King Tutankhamun artifacts, including his infamous death mask. Continue to the Saladin Citadel of Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site and medieval Islamic fort. The site is located near the city’s center and is famous for its fresh breeze and grand views of the city.

Visit the most famous attraction in the country and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the entire world; the Pyramids of Giza. Giza is located on the west bank of the Nile River and you’ll be surprised by how close the complex is to the city, in fact it is basically surrounded by it. The Great Pyramid is the oldest and biggest of the three pyramids in the complex and was built for the pharaoh Khufu. The other two smaller pyramids are called Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Great pyramid is part of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and they are the oldest and only surviving site on the list. After exploring the immense pyramids, continue onto the Sphinx that guards the Giza plateau. This half-lion, half-human is constructed out of a single-piece of limestone and sits in a reclining position. Enjoy some of the most beautiful and magnificent sites of Egypt here and take it all in because there is nothing else on Earth quite like it!

Luxor: Ancient Thebes In Real Life

The ancient Egyptian city of Thebes, current day Luxor, was once the capital when pharaohs ruled the land in the 16th -11th century BCE. You will be brought to Luxor via your deluxe river cruise ship and you are free to either explore at your own pace or join the optional tours to Valley of the Kings, burial site of pharaohs from around 1539-1075 BCE, Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, with its unique 3 terrace designed, and the Colossi of Memnon, the two large stone statues of king Amenhotep III guarding the whole site. Included tours bring you to see the East bank of Luxor, which include the magnificent Temples of Karnak, including the Great Temple of Amon, an ancient temple dedicated to the king of the gods. Also visit Hypostyle Hall, 134 massive sandstone columns and Luxor Temple, the site of an ancient temple dating back to 1400 BCE. Also see the avenue of the Spinxes, a row of Sphinx statues connecting Luxor and Karnak temples.You are sure to see all that Luxor has to offer when you book your Egypt tour with Gate 1 Travel.

Nile River Cruise: Ultra-Sophistication from Aswan to Luxor

Your deluxe cruise takes you on the 5-star MS Esplanade river boat. The Esplanade will take you to can’t miss locations along the Nile including the cities of Luxor, Karnak, Edfu, Aswan, the towns of Komombo and Edfu and so much more. Optional tours while on board include a tour of Abu Simbel by bus, the ancient sites of Luxor including Valley of the Kings, Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon and a Felucca sail boat ride. Your cruise will be truly unforgettable with exploration of these fascinating sites while at port and sailing effortlessly down the Nile while you relax and enjoy your ship and onboard amenities on your luxurious ship.

Edfu & Kom Ombo: History Alive

Visit the Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in the entire country in Edfu. This temple was dedicated to the Egyptian god Horus, the falcon-headed god, who you can see depicted around the temple. There are many well-preserved statues and hieroglyphics here so pay attention to the intricate details of the temple. The site was built more recently than others you’ll visit, around 237 BCE, and took 180 years to build. The temple itself was buried in sand, rubble and part of Edfu village and was excavated in the 19th century. This site is truly marvelous and highlights the prosperity the country enjoyed in the time period it was built.

Next up, enjoy the town of Kom Ombo, that itself is simply an agricultural town located on the east bank of the river in the south. The town is most famous for the Temple of Kom Ombo, an unusual looking double-sided temple dedicated to the worship of both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon god. The temple was built this way in order to separate the two gods’ places of worship, because they were known to be brothers yet enemies but worshipped in the same temple. For this reason, the complex has two entrances, two courts and so on. Picture yourself here in the days of the pharaohs and visiting this place to worship the gods!

Aswan: An Engineering Marvel

Aswan is an ancient frontier city made famous by the High Dam of Aswan, an engineering miracle from the 1960s that brought the Nile’s devastating floods to an end. Arrive by motorboat to the island location of Philae Temple. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis, the mother of Horus and the wife of Osiris. Afterward, stop at a local perfume shop, which are famous in Aswan. Here you will learn about the creation of the perfumes and hear more about the healing effects of certain oils. Perhaps explore the local Aswan market (souk) where you can find almost anything, from souvenirs to clothing to spices and much more. If you have free time, satisfy your thirst with a local Egyptian drink such as mint or hibiscus tea at a local café.

Abu Simbel: A Site Completely Relocated

Abu Simbel is an optional tour with your itinerary. You will get there by bus because it is around 170 miles outside of Aswan. This unforgettable sight may just become the highlight of your trip. This easily recognizable site was actually saved from the waters of the Aswan High Dam and had to be completely reconstructed in its present location. It is as close to the original as possible with even the temples facing the exact same direction. The site is comprised of two temples: the Great Temple and the Small Temple, both created during the time of Ramses II for him and his wife Queen Nefertari. Step outside of the temples and admire the majestic seated statues of Ramses II. Proceed to the Temple of Hathor to view the murals with images of the goddess Hathor and Queen Nefertari.

Uncover the countless wonders of Ancient Egypt and the Nile River with Gate 1 Travel on a deluxe cruise ship. When you do, you’ll close each remarkable day in luxury accommodations, delight in local cuisine, and gain in-depth insight from local guides who call this destination home. Join us!

Please Note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary.

#G1PhotoFridayLatin America

Wonders of the Salt Pools in Maras, Peru

on August 9, 2019

The Salt Pools of Maras, Peru are quite a unique and interesting experience for travelers to the country. The site is actually comprised of a canyon filled with geometric salt pools that have been harvested and in use since the days of the Incan Empire. The individual pools are fed by a local stream which are then opened and damned. The salt is then collected by a process of evaporation once the pool is filled with water from the stream. There’s nothing else on earth quite like it!

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

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The City of Two Continents; Istanbul, Turkey

on August 2, 2019

Enchanting Istanbul, Turkey stakes a claim that not many other cities in the world can, it straddles the continents of Europe and Asia. The city even has a special metro line, called the Marmaray, that crosses from Asia to Europe! The city lies on the Bosporus strait, the body of water that separates the continents, and covers the entire area of the Golden Horn, a natural harbor. The history of Istanbul is vast and can be considered one of the most important cities in all of history. Roman, Ottoman and Byzantine eras have all left their mark on the city in the forms of mosques, buildings and even an obelisk. If history and incredible surroundings appeal to you, Istanbul is a must visit.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @oanh_derer using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Istanbul, 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! 

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Grand Canal at Sunset in Venice, Italy

on July 26, 2019

The Grand Canal in Venice is the main artery of the city and follows a natural channel that creates a reverse S shape. The canal is about 2 miles long and has an average depth of 17 feet. It connects at various points with different smaller canals throughout Venice and creates the water traffic channels that make it possible to get from place to place. Since there are no cars; gondolas, water taxis, public transit water buses and more use these canals every day to transport visitors and locals.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @oanh_derer using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Venice, 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! 

Asia & PacificSmall Group Discoveries

Best Districts to Visit in Tokyo, Japan

on July 20, 2019

Tokyo never leaves much to be desired, you can find just about anything you can imagine in this city. From fascinating places to eat, to trendy shopping, to world-famous markets, Tokyo, Japan will never bore. Join us on our list detailing some of the most fascinating and must-visit neighborhoods in this innovative city.

Tsukiji
You may recognize the name of Tsukiji as the namesake to the fish market located there. This world-famous market contains aisle upon aisle of some of the freshest seafood in the entire world. It is a unique place to visit to view the seafood for sale but also a perfect place to have a snack! Not only does Tsukiji include the inner market, where the licensed wholesale market and auctions take place, but also the outer market that contains grocery stores, restaurants and shops. If you like sushi and want some of the freshest you can get, this is the place to indulge.

Shinjuku
Shinjuku is the neighborhood home to the busiest train station in the entire world, Shinjuku Station. Many of the people from out of town coming to Tokyo arrive at this bustling train station first. This area contains a plethora of entertainment from restaurants to clubs and hotels. Park yourself at a bar in the Golden Gai, a network of 6 narrow alleys with over 200 bars, clubs and eateries squeezed into the small area. Hang out shoulder to shoulder with Japanese locals while enjoying local beverages, food or entertainment.

Shibuya
Welcome to the home of the busiest intersection in the entire world, Shibuya Crossing, in the district with the same name. This crossing is an excellent place to take pictures and get a feel for the insanity that is Shibuya Crossing. Shibuya is the center of culture and trends of Tokyo and contains the Shibuya 109 building with incredible shopping. This department store/building/mall is so popular and culturally important, it even had its own Emoji at one time.

Akihabara
Akihabara is the technology area of Tokyo and has become a haven for otaku, a young person obsessed with computers, and anime culture. Akihabara is a perfect place to look through the electronic stores and gaze upon the most up-to-date technologies available on the market. This district is the perfect place to witness the underground culture of Japan come to the surface and find some compelling high-tech gadgets.

Harajuku
If you like shopping, Harajuku is a must for you. Harajuku is notorious for its colorful and playful fashion stores and trendy cafes. Head down to Takeshita Street and be thrown into a world of kawaii (cute) and pop culture. Shops, cafes and desert stands are all plentiful on Takeshita Street. If trendy clothes are not your thing, head to one of the beautiful nature spots in the area and sit down to people watch. This might be one of the best places for people-watching in the entire world because people in Harajuku are known to dress in wild outfits.

Ginza
Ginza is the fabulous and expensive part of the city where you can find the luxury designer and flagship stores including Sanrio World, Uniqlo, Apple, Yves Saint Laurent and more. The main street here is called Chuo-dori and is closed to traffic on weekend afternoons, so it is a perfect place to take a stroll and window shop while having free time.

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Hunedoara Castle in Hunedoara, Romania

on July 19, 2019

Hunedoara or Corvin’s Castle is located in Hunedoara, Romania in the Transylvania region. It is located along the route from Timisoara to Sibiu, Romania. This 14th century Gothic-Renaissance castle is one of the largest in all of Europe and is one of the “Seven Wonders of Romania.” A tour of the castle will include viewing of the bear pit, dungeon and the knight’s hall.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @mkh151 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Hunedoara, Romania. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Romania trips here! 

Did you know: It is thought that Hunedoara Castle was an inspiration for Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel “Dracula.”

Asia & PacificSmall Group Discoveries

Geisha, Maiko and Geiko, What is the Difference?

on July 17, 2019

Geisha, maiko and geiko may seem like complex ideas from Japanese culture but we are going to break down what each of them mean and give you the knowledge to impress your friends and other travelers on your 12 Day Japan, Then & Now tour.

These entertainers have been performing for guests for centuries by dancing, playing instruments, games, pouring drinks and being professional conversationalists. This practice is still being done today and hopefully you will see one of these gorgeous women while visiting Gion in Kyoto or in Tokyo. White-face makeup, red lips and colorful kimonos are your first sign that you have encountered a geisha, maiko or geiko but we will get into the smaller variations so you can tell exactly who you have just met. There are also visitors that can pay to dress up like geisha so it is important to know the difference.

Geisha Vs. Geiko:

Both the geisha and the geiko are taught music, singing, dancing, speaking and pouring drinks. They are both trained to be charismatic and charming to their guests. Both are trained for 5 years before they become geisha (“gei” meaning arts and “sha” meaning person) or geiko and therefore, true “people of the arts.”

The only main difference between the two is where they come from. In Kyoto, the women are called geiko while in Tokyo, they are geisha. Although the names differ from place to place, do not be concerned if you forget because the term geisha is widely accepted and will be understood whether you are in Tokyo or Kyoto.

Maiko Vs. Geisha/Geiko:

A maiko is known as an apprentice geisha and is a younger woman who is currently in training in the arts of entertainment and charm. She is training to become well-versed in classical music, dancing and conversation and does not yet earn as much as a geisha. They spend their time training to dance, play the shamisen, a three-stringed instrument and learn to speak local Kyoto/Tokyo dialects. Their training typically takes around 5 years. The maiko’s training continues until finally graduating to be a geisha in a ceremony known as “turning of the collar.”

Her hair differs from that of a geisha in that a geisha’s hair is typically a wig that is pre-styled whereas the maiko uses her natural hair for her elaborate styles. It can take the maiko hours to get her hair just right. Both wear flower accessories in the hair with a geisha having much simpler decor. They both wear kimonos that feature a train called the obi. Maikos obi are wide and hang almost to the length of the ankles while geisha have a much shorter and thinner one. The maiko has brightly colored garments and the geisha has a plainer kimono typically with red, gold and white colors. As for footwear, the maiko normally wears high wooden sandals while the geisha wears shorter ones.

The makeup of the maiko includes a strip of bare skin left unpainted by the hairline, pink blush around the cheeks, red and black around the eyes and eyebrows defined with red or pink under the black. The lips of the maiko will only be partially covered red, with only the bottom one being painted during the first year of training. The geisha’s face is totally white with no bare strip because the wig that they wear will cover it. Geisha will only have black on their eyes and a little red under the black of their eyebrows. Their lips will be painted almost entirely in red.

Now that you know the differences between the three, it is time to visit Japan and test your knowledge!

Gate 1 ConnectionsLatin America

Ecuador; Where Diversity, Wildlife & Nature Converge

on July 15, 2019

Nature lovers and animal enthusiasts unite! If following in Charles Darwin’s footsteps and seeing incredible wildlife you’ve only read about is your dream, make it come true on an Ecuador and the Galapagos tour with Gate 1 Travel. From the capital city of Quito, to the incredible Galapagos Islands and onto the lively port city of Guayaquil, you will explore this impressive country and enjoy many unforgettable adventures along the way.

Let Gate 1 take you seamlessly from the main land of this South American country, and then on to the highlight of the trip; the Galapagos Isles where you will enjoy beautiful flora and fauna that is unlike anywhere else on earth. Choose to also explore the Amazonian areas of Ecuador where you will experience the culture and traditions of the people and the special setting in which they live. Canoe rides, ziplining, cruising and nature hikes will all become your modes of transportation on your Ecuador excursion with Gate 1 Travel.

Guayaquil

Vibrant and exciting Guayaquil is an excellent place to start. Guayaquil has often been passed off as the little sister of Quito but it’s made a splash in recent years with a massive riverside development called Malecon 2000. Guayaquil is also more populous than Quito and some say it has more style but you can be the judge of this. This city is your gateway to the Galapagos islands and the second largest city in size in the country. This port city is full of incredible architecture and you will view and visit some of them including the main square with its stirring Heroes of the Independence memorial that symbolizes the triumph of the Republic against Spain. Continue on to the Seminario Park (Parque de las Iguanas) and enjoy this favorite place for bird watching and home to arboreal Iguanas. Next, enjoy sites such as the Neo-Gothic Cathedral, La Rotonda Monument and Torre Morisca (Moorish Clock Tower).  Visit the charming riverside Malecon Garden and Santa Ana Hill where the city was founded in the 16th century. You will be in the exact place where the city was born and learn more about its history. Lastly, enjoy a visit to the Parque Historico, where you will view historic houses with their pastel hues and learn about the culture of the area.

Quito

Not only is Quito the capital of Ecuador, it is also the second highest altitude capital in the world after La Paz, Bolivia. This city is high in the foothills of the Andes and was constructed on the base of an ancient Incan city. Quito has a long and storied history and you will discover it starting at the Independence Plaza; the central square and historic center of the city. Continue your tour and view the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Presidential Palace, Municipal Building and the Archbishop’s Palace. Make your way to the historic colonial quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a smaller city within a city. Museums, plazas, churches and more dominate this old and historic area. Lastly, visit the Metropolitan Cultural Center with its exhibits that highlight and celebrate Ecuadorian culture and history.

Galapagos

The Galapagos is truly one of the most incredible and unique places on the entire earth. It contains animals that live only on the island and you can only see them here. These animals have also been here a long time so they’ve had time to adapt to their habitat in the most unusual and fascinating ways. These longtime residents include the blue-footed booby, Galapagos giant tortoise, Galapagos penguins and so many more. In fact, this archipelago is the only place in the world that you can see penguins and flamingos in the same place! Join us on these legendary islands and experience the place where biodiversity has flourished for many years. If going to the Galapagos is on your bucket list, there is no better time than now to heed the call.

Visit Isabela island, the largest island in the Galapagos and considered the “gem” of the archipelago. This island offers an expansive beach, beautiful natural surroundings and striking pink flamingos which gracefully appear in the lagoons and marshes at dusk. Board a dingy to Tintoreras Islet, a small bay with calm turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Inhabitants here include sea lions, sea turtles, penguins and iguanas. Make sure to have your camera ready for when you encounter some of these amazing creatures. When the tide is low here, you may even be able to see the island’s famous whitetip reef sharks! Keep your eyes peeled. Continue on to the Sierra Negra Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes of the islands. Enjoy a trek here across alien terrain and fascinating geological landmarks.

A true highlight comes up next at the Charles’ Darwin Research Station’s Giant Tortoise Breeding Center on Santa Cruz Island. Here you will learn more about the programs to save the iconic Galapagos tortoises and see some of the animals eating, sleeping and wallowing in the mud. These turtles can live up to and over 100 years! They are the some of the longest living vertebrates on earth.

The Galapagos includes a plethora of diverse islands with different reasons that bring travelers there. Gate 1 Travel offers different tours to many of the different islands including the following so you can embrace the Galapagos your own way. North Seymour, a resurfaced island that appeared from underwater millions of years ago by geological lift, is home to excellent bird watching and 500 land iguanas. Bartolome features the cutest of ambassadors, the Galapagos Penguins. Santiago is home to a rich diversity of wildlife including marine iguanas, sea lions, fur seals, land and sea turtles and dolphins. On Fernandina, the youngest and most active of the volcanic islands, penguins, sea lions and fur seals enjoy the sun and wade in the tide.

Perhaps join our Galapagos Express itinerary, an affordable package that includes all excursions, an excellent way to see the islands! Begin your journey at Baltra Airport where you will then ferry to Santa Cruz. Visit Bartolome Island with an astonishing array of wildlife such as penguins, sea lions, turtles and many different kinds of fish. Also enjoy snorkeling and swimming and the option to hike over the steep summit of this island. Next, head by boat to North Seymour Island and keep an eye out for blue-footed booby, pelican, frigate bird, sea lion and iguana. Relax on an isolated stretch of beach and enjoy a swim or snorkel along the coast. Last, visit the impressive Charles Darwin Research Station and the Fausto Llerena Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre before you leave this incredible archipelago cemented in time.

Amazon

The Ecuadorian Amazon is home to more varieties of plants and animals than any other place on the earth. Start off your adventure right by journeying to your hotel down river in a motorized canoe and then transferring to a dugout canoe for the remainder. You will then arrive at your lodge just in time for either some bird watching or hanging out at the pool. Rest up and then embark on a “Canopy Walk” where you will view extraordinary panoramas from the observation platforms at a height of 120 feet above the forest floor. Learn about medicinal plants that have been used by the local people here for hundreds of years. Visit the Nueva Providencia Interpretation Center where you will speak with women from the Kichwa community and learn about their lifestyle and have a meal with them. Afterwards, take a canoe ride into the flooded floor of the rainforest and find yourself surrounded by birds, monkeys and more.

Andes

The Andes Mountains is one of the longest mountain ranges in the entire world and spans much of the western side of South America. Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina are all encompassed by these giants. High in this landscape, you will visit Papallacta home of a hot springs for which the area is famous. Here you can choose to enjoy the optional to the spa and enjoy steaming thermal baths surrounded by the beauty of nature. Perhaps, also opt for a soothing massage in this jungle paradise. Surround yourself in this incredible setting and take time to wind down and remember all of your fond memories from your Ecuadorian adventure.

Ecuador is one of the most diverse countries on earth. If you are looking to see fascinating cities, infinite ecosystems and a plethora of animals, there is no better place. From the wilds of the Amazon to the heights of the Andean countryside, Ecuador is stunningly diverse, despite being smaller than the state of Nevada. No matter which itinerary calls to you, our carefully chosen hotels provide all the amenities and services you expect from Gate 1 Travel to ensure you’ll explore in comfort. What’s more, thanks to our full roster of tours and features, you can be sure you’re traveling at the best value available. Join us!

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Astronomical Clock in Prague, Czech Republic

on July 12, 2019

This relic of the medieval period was first built in the 15th century, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock and the oldest clock still operating in the entire world. This intricate clock not only tells time but also astronomical information including relative positions of the sun, moon, constellations and sometimes even major planets! People gather in front of the Old Town Hall Tower, where the clock sits, each hour to watch it chime, an experience that lasts about 45 seconds.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @coachkallen using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Prague, Czech Republic. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Czech Republic and Central Europe trips here! 

#G1PhotoFridayAsia & Pacific

The Shinto Shrine of Fushimi Inari-Taisha in Kyoto, Japan

on June 28, 2019

The incredible Fushimi Inari-Taisha is located in the southern part of Kyoto, Japan and is an important Shinto Shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The shrine sits at the bottom of Inari Mountain and contains 1,000 vermilon torii gates, as shown in the picture. While visiting the shrine, be on the look-out for fox statues, as they are said to be the messenger of the god Inari.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @isabelakubota using the hashtag #gate1travel. This colorful picture was taken in Kyoto, Japan at the Fushimi Inari Taisha. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Japan trips here! 

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