Tag: Ireland

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Discover the Magic of Celtic Folklore

on August 27, 2024
Giant's_Causeway

A trip through Ireland offers an unforgettable exploration of ancient Celtic myths, legendary figures, and enchanting landscapes. From bustling cities to serene coastlines, each stop brings you closer to the heart of Ireland’s rich heritage. With Gate 1 Travel Escorted Tours you’ll have the opportunity to discover the magic of Irish folklore through the wisdom of a local guide, or you can choose your own adventure with an Independent Vacation package. No matter how you choose to travel, you’ll want to be sure to make some of these iconic stops.

Dublin: The Gateway to Celtic Legends

There are plenty of reasons to visit the largest city in Ireland, but people interested in Celtic history are sure to find a highlight in Trinity College. This historic institution of higher education – legendary in its own right – is currently home to the iconic Book of Kells, a 9th-century illuminated manuscript that holds a wealth of Celtic symbolism and artistry.

Waterford: A Merging of Mythologies

Waterford is Ireland’s oldest city, and is deeply rooted in its own rich history. The town’s history is interwoven with both Celtic and Norse mythology. The Viking Triangle area of the city offers a glimpse into the merging of these two traditions over time. During your visit you might want to swing by the Waterford Treasures Museum or the world-famous Waterford Crystal showroom to see samples of the exquisite craftsmanship the city has produced over the years.

Kinsale: Coastal Charm with a Flair for Folklore

Kinsale, with its picturesque harbor and colorful streets, provides a perfect setting to delve into the lore of the sea. The town’s rich maritime history includes tales of mythical sea creatures and legendary shipwrecks. The surrounding landscapes are also the settings of stories about magical beings and ancient curses. Travelers on the 12 Day Kaleidoscope of Ireland escorted tour will get to see the rich history and legends of this area come to life during a guided walking tour of the town.

Blarney Castle: A Magic Kiss

A visit to Blarney Castle is a must for any folklore enthusiast. Here, you can kiss the legendary Blarney Stone to gain the gift of eloquence. The castle’s grounds are also home to the mystical Poison Garden, which is said to be enchanted in its own mysterious ways. The surrounding Blarney House and gardens evoke a sense of fairy-tale wonder, making this a truly memorable and magical stop on any tour.

Cliffs of Moher: Nature’s Majestic Backdrop

The Cliffs of Moher are a breathtaking highlight for many travelers. These towering cliffs have been the backdrop to a myriad of myths and legends, with casts of characters ranging from warriors and witches to giants and other mysterious beings. As you walk along the edge of these remarkable natural wonders, you’ll feel the power of the myths that have been woven into the landscape for centuries.

Giant’s Causeway: The Mythical Formation

The Giant’s Causeway is another one of Ireland’s famous natural wonders, with its unique basalt columns and stunning coastal views. According to legend, these other-worldly formations were created by the giant Finn McCool (also known as Fionn Mac Cumhaill) during a legendary battle with the Scottish giant Benandonner. The Causeway’s stunning appearance makes it a perfect spot to reflect on how myths have shaped Irish history and culture even to this day.

Each Gate 1 tour of Ireland brings together a rich blend of history, legend, and natural beauty for travelers of all types to enjoy. From the historic and bustling streets of Dublin to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and the mystical Giant’s Causeway, each destination provides a unique glimpse into Ireland’s legendary past. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, enchanting landscapes, or vibrant cities, a journey through the heart of Celtic folklore promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Admiring the Rock of Cashel, Ireland

on December 6, 2019

Welcome to one of the most brilliant archaeological sites in all of Ireland; the Rock of Cashel located in Tipperary. Tipperary is located on the route from Waterford to Adare in the South of the country. This collection of medieval church buildings and fortresses are set on top of a limestone outcrop that rises majestically out of County Tipperary’s Golden Vale. The kings of Munster kept this historical site as their base for 600 years. Enjoy an easy trek to the top of the Rock and see incredible views of the church buildings below.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user Cristian Georgescu using the hashtag #gate1travel. This stunning view was captured at the Rock of Cashel, 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! 

EuropeGate 1 Connections

England, Scotland & Ireland; Brilliant British Isles

on December 4, 2019

You’ve traveled across the pond to England, Scotland & Ireland. Here you will discover three nations as captivating as they are different from one another. From currency, heritage, culture and traditions, these three places are about as fascinating as they come.

Tours typically begin in the celebrated city of London, where you will enjoy your first taste of life on the British Isles. View some of the most famous landmarks in the world including London Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and more. Drive up the country, making stops in Stratford-Upon-Avon, York or perhaps Liverpool and into the proud nation of Scotland where you will visit Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aviemore. Continue your journey over to the Emerald Island and enjoy fascinating towns such as Kilkenny, Killarney, the Ring of Kerry and the cities of Dublin, Belfast, Derry and Galway. There is so much to see in England, Scotland & Ireland and we would love to show it off to you.

From the sacred halls of London to the lochs of Scotland and furthermore, to the magnetic personality of Ireland, there is so much to look forward to on this thrilling adventure. Gate 1 Travel’s longtime presence in these countries means you’ll gain a full understanding of the past, present, and future of these countries from our local Tour Managers. 

England

The history of The Crown truly lives and breathes in every neighborhood of London. The architecture of this grand city spans the ages, from Westminster Abbey, whose origins date to the 10th century, to the 19th-century Gothic Revival splendor of the Houses of Parliament, to the modern bustling squares of Piccadilly and Trafalgar. London, and much of England, opens windows to the Norman, Tudor, Victorian and Edwardian Ages like few other places can and reveals the stately vestiges of what was once the mightiest empire on the planet, whether you’re exploring Windsor Castle, the oldest and biggest inhabited castle in the world, or Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. If the nobility of England interests you or if you were a fan ofDownton Abbey, visit Highclere Castle, where the fictional Granthams grappled with the changing tides of history.

Before England was the center of its own mighty nation, it was merely an outpost to another great power: the Roman Empire. One of the most remarkable echoes of Rome’s presence here are the thermal mineral springs of Bath. Today, the city is also a rich repository of Georgian architecture; the city’s highlight is the Royal Crescent, a row of terraced houses forming an elegant crescent shape. Indeed, there is no shortage of grace in England, as the nation’s renowned bard, William Shakespeare, reminds you during a visit to his birthplace; Stratford-upon-Avon. If touring the playwright’s home keeps you yearning for additional academic pursuits, then a stop in Oxford to visit the university may satisfy you. The city’s renowned ivy-cloaked colleges comprise the second oldest university in the world and many of its alumni went on to change the world, including Stephen Hawking and Margaret Thatcher. It is now one of the most prestigious schools in the world.

Legendary English Lake Poet, John Keats, wrote that “A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” No doubt he was inspired by the Lake District, a dreamy expanse of rolling hills, farm villages and lakes. There is also ample beauty in the south of England, in the Cotswolds and coast of Cornwall. The tidy villages of the Cotswolds are among the most beautiful in the nation, clusters of stone houses topped by thatched roofs. Quaint English villages also line the dramatic coast of Cornwall, though St. Michael’s Mount, perched atop a granite causeway on a scenic tidal islet offshore, may just steal the scene.

Liverpool is mostly celebrated as the home of The Beatles, but it is also beloved for its setting on Liverpool Bay and its architecture. York Minster in the breathtaking, Viking-founded city of York was the crowning glory of medieval England. Still today, it is England’s largest Gothic cathedral. This masterpiece took 250 years to build and has a central tower that reaches 200 feet.

Scotland

Not far past the Roman Artifact of Hadrian’s Wall, the border of Scotland comes into view. Discover dramatic Scotland, a canvas of rivers, lakes, and sophisticated cities threaded among starkly beautiful highlands. We think you’ll be spellbound by Scotland’s soaring contours and wide-open splendor.

The capital, Edinburgh, provides insight into the Scottish heart and soul. The stunning Edinburgh Castle overlooks it all from a rocky perch while the Royal Mile stretches out to the country’s most treasured buildings: the Scottish Parliament, Museum of Scotland, and Holyrood Palace, the queen’s residence when she is in town. Glasgow, Scotland’s other cultural capital, was proclaimed the “Second City of the British Empire” during Victorian and Edwardian day. Its 19th and early 20th century buildings are testament to its former status, a rich blend of architectural styles.

The soul of Scotland fills the Scottish Highlands, an awe-inspiring terrain of rocky hills and emerald slopes where calls of ancient clans echo through forests and over lochs. The Cairngorms National Park is the centerpiece of the region, ideally explored from the enclave of Aviemore. It was near here at Culloden Battlefield that the Jacobites famously lost their battle with the British, losing their land to the empire. For unspoiled beauty, few experiences rival a drive through Glencoe, where precipitous mountains pierce the sky, rising over deep green valleys.

The Highlands are not all inland mountains and lakes. The coastal regions have their own unique beauty. Nestled on the shore of Loch Linnhe, the town of Fort William rests at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak. Glen Nevis Valley skirts the mountain’s lush slopes and served as the pristine setting for movies such as Braveheart and Rob Roy. The seaside village of Ullapool provides a taste of life in the northwestern Highlands. Its cabbage trees might make you think you’re in the tropics for their resemblance to palm trees. Farther north, dramatic rocky coastlines point to the Castle and Gardens of Mey, once home to the Queen Mother, and Thurso, the northernmost town on the mainland and the gateway for a day-long cruise to the Orkney Islands, a rural archipelago with a history that dates back to the Viking Age.

On the west coast of the Highlands, the Inner Hebrides Islands beckon with their breathtaking vistas of jagged peaks, sparkling lochs, charming fishing villages and medieval castles. The Isle of Skye, connected to the mainland by a bridge in 1990, is the largest and closest to the mainland. On the Isle of Mull, spectacular sea cliffs and white-sand beaches greet you, reaching inland to jagged mountains of a rosy pink hue. The town of Tobermory is brimming with brightly colored shops, the perfect way to end a day after exploring the Isle of Iona, a sacred island where it is thought that monks created the famed illuminated Book of Kells.

Ireland

Enchanting Ireland is right. Ireland is a beautiful country known for a warm culture and lush greenery. While visiting Ireland with Gate 1 Travel you will experience many of the can’t miss spots including the capital city of Dublin, where you will enjoy a city tour and view St. Stephen’s Green, Phoenix Park and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Visit Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, one of the oldest books in the entire world and have free time to explore this bohemian town.

The Killarney National Park is where you will drive through the world-famous Ring of Kerry and see magnificent sites and charming towns on your way. The area is one of the most picturesque in Ireland and you will pass by villages Cahirciveen and Sneem and see their quaint colored houses. The most authentic fortress in Ireland, Bunratty Castle, has been restored to its former splendor while the Cliffs of Moher create an impressive wall of rock towering 700 ft. over the Atlantic. A journey north through the Irish countryside leads you to the Connemara National Park, a scenic expanse of mountains, grassland and woodland. Continue to Galway, a seafaring town that has become the fastest growing city on the entire European continent in recent years.

While heading to Northern Ireland, stop by the incredible natural volcanic formation of Giant’s Causeway before continuing to Derry where you will visit the medieval walls, Guildhall, Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall and St. Columb’s Cathedral. Next, restored historic buildings, ornate murals, European cafes and the Titanic Experience can all be found in the renaissance city of Belfast.

Uncover the Cultural and Natural Wonders of England, Scotland & Ireland with Gate 1!

There is no more rewarding an adventure than exploring England, Scotland & Ireland with Gate 1 Travel. Whether you’re planning your first or your fifth trip here, we’ve been showing travelers these places of unrivaled history and enriching culture for as long as we’re been in business. We are well suited to point you to the very best sites. Our long experience here also translates into unmatched value for you, no one can provide such a quality experience at such an affordable price. Join us!

Please Note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary.

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

Medieval Views in Kilkenny, Ireland

on September 13, 2019

The 12th Century Kilkenny Castle is located in the deeply historic and religious city of Kilkenny, Ireland. Located along the River Nore, this castle was originally built in 1195 to guard the river crossing. The castle is now one of the most instantly recognized sites in all of Ireland and remains an important structure of the country.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @iris_8a using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Kilkenny, Ireland at Kilkenny Castle. 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

Top 10 Friendliest Cities in the World

on November 1, 2018
Pictured: Queenstown, New Zealand

Hello and warmest welcomes to our list of the friendliest cities in the world. Let’s be honest, sometimes travel can be a little uncomfortable and stressful, especially in a new location. A helpful culture, friendly people and beautiful sights all help make you feel at home in a new city and may even help contribute to making it your new favorite vacation spot! Follow us around the world as we bring you to some of our friendliest spots due to their authenticity and unashamed personality.

10. Thimphu, Bhutan
Welcome to the tiny, magical kingdom of Bhutan, located in-between India and China. Tradition and independence reign supreme in Bhutan and you will see that instantly in the people who live here. The capital city of Thimphu gives you the perfect taste of what Bhutan is all about. This city is located in the Himalayas and is extremely isolated from outside cultures, meaning it has largely kept its authenticity. Thimphu is the most modern in the entire country and boosts a great amount of sights to see. A great thing to do here is to surround yourself with temples and courtyards that will make you feel just like a local. Top attractions here include the Dochula, a mountain pass through the Himalayas and Simtokha Dzong, an important historic building and former Buddhist monastery, Do not forget to be on the lookout for the rare national animal; the Tazin.

9. Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Travel along the beautiful Sea-to-Sky Highway to get to alluring Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, Canada. This town is a true homage to Victorian charm, through the architecture and genuine nature of the locals. It is also the oldest city in the Pacific Northwest, which means its has a lot of history stretching back thousands of years. British and Asian traditions are also prominent here thanks to the cities past involvements with trading and British rule. While in Victoria, you will want to visit Beacon Hill Park, Butchart Gardens and the Royal BC Museum. Perhaps stop in Canada’s oldest Chinatown and indulge in a delicious snack! Perhaps you’ll enjoy a stroll or have a meal along the Victoria Harbor and take in the view of the Parliament Building along the water. Victoria, British Columbia welcomes you and you will be greeted with a warm embrace!

8. Hoi An, Vietnam
The ancient town of Hoi An, Vietnam will give you a feel for the culture as soon as you get here. Many of the people in this city still wear the “ao dais” or cultural dress of the Vietnamese. Hoi An is bursting with tradition, given its past as an important Asian training port. This city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has an impressive collection of canals, pagodas, temples, bridges and shops in the Old Quarter. While in Hoi An, be sure to visit the Organic Village where you can enjoy vegetables and herbs grown in the area to support the local community. This town has no airport or train station so you will oftentimes land in the airport of Da Nang and drive to Hoi An, but it is worth it! Warm weather, happy people and a city with much to do will make Hoi An a new favorite of yours.

7. Savannah, Georgia, United States
Welcome to the “Belle of the South” Savannah, Georgia, and what a beauty this city is. A storied past and numerous landmarks give this city a heart all its own. Historic landmarks you must see in Savannah include Forsyth Park, River Street, the Waving Girl statue and the Cotton Exchange. While here, be sure to keep an eye out for the manicured gardens, historic district, antebellum architecture and horse-drawn carriages, that will transport you to another era. Take a walk down the cobblestone streets at night and get a real feel for the city; breathe in the warm weather and magnificent sights of the South in Savannah.

6. Galway, Ireland
You’ve arrived in the Emerald Isle and we have an excellent spot for you to visit! Galway is a seafaring town in this country that deeply honors tradition. The Gaelic language is alive here and can be observed in the people of this area. When in this city, be on the lookout for folk music, traditional pubs and fun shops. These are all a must to truly understand the character of this city and those who live here. Must see sights in this city include the Eyre Square, River Corrib, Latin Quarter and Galway Cathedral. If you love a city that marches to the beat of its own drum and has a truly unique nature, Galway is a must for you.

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is located in the mountainous Himalayas in the region of Northern Thailand. Northern Thailand is said to have a persona and food scene all its own and cannot be compared with the cities in the south. This is due to its close border to Myanmar and Laos and the Lanna inspiration that exists here. This area is rich in character and is very fond of festivals and celebrations! Chiang Mai is a perfect example of the culture of the north and has temples and wats that you will not believe. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, Wat Suan Dok and Wat Phra Singh are just a few of the must see attractions. Some things to try and do here that are authentic include sampling local dishes, perhaps Larb, a spicy salad, or Khao Soim, coconut curry soup, enjoying a Thai massage, venturing through Sankampang Street for handicrafts and exploring the temples. Experience for yourself, the spirit and beliefs of Northern Thailand, with a visit to the genuine Chiang Mai.

4. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown, New Zealand was named for Queen Victoria and is located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu on the South Island of this Pacific nation. Queenstown has a rich Maori culture and history of gold-mining that helped shape what this area is today. This city is considered the adventure sports capital of the country and is a perfect place to live like the locals. Bungy-jumping, skydiving, paragliding and zip-lining are all available here. For more natural scenes, Milford Sound, Elington Valley, Mitre Peak and Bowen Falls are some of the few in Queenstown. See excellent views of the city below at Bob’s Peak and view some of the Lord of the Rings filming locations. Be sure to also get acquainted with the downtown of this resort area and perhaps visit a relaxing spa, find a good restaurant or do some exploring! Getting yourself into some adventures in Queenstown is sure to make you feel like a kiwi and meet kiwi friends as well.

3. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is your gateway to the Angkor temples and a unique city all it’s own. It is very probable that the Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat masterpieces brought you here, and that’s an excellent reason. These amazing temples were built by Khmer Kings and were once home to over a million people! These temples are truly a must see for your travel bucket list and are unlike anything you have seen. This city is very popular and safe and has adapted to accommodate travelers. Hotels, restaurants and shopping are all prevalent and excellent in this city. Many of the people of Cambodia are grateful and happy to meet travelers and people from all over the world so do not be afraid to interact! The Cambodians have had a fascinating and sometimes horrific history but they are more than happy to share their country, as well as ancient sights, with the world.

2. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, Ireland is one of those cities that is always a good idea and will always provide travelers with a good time. Whether you are walking around, exploring sights or having a drink in the pub at night, this city is full of excitement, singing and people enjoying themselves. Some of the must see sights in Dublin include Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse, O’Connell Street and St. Stephen’s Green. If you are looking for a place to enjoy a drink, eat Irish fare or do a little shopping, head down to the Temple Bar area. This area can get a bit touristy and crowded, so do not be afraid to spend a little time here and move on to another area. If you are looking for an authentic Irish experience, this is one of the best places in the country to find it! Have a bowl of Irish Stew with a local or listen to an Irish folk band at the pub and you are sure to feel more green.

1. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Hola! Welcome to San Miguel de Allende in Mexico. This location tops the list thanks to its impressive history, friendly people, tasty restaurants and easy exploration of the city by foot. San Miguel de Allende also has a large ex-pat community that can make you feel more at home. The city itself is best known for it’s Colonial-era and Spanish architecture and intertwining history with Mexico’s Independence. Cobblestone streets, majestic churches and plentiful parks and gardens help add to the perfection of this story-book city. Here, you will feel safe, enjoy a friendly and exciting place and have a stress-free time exploring the sights. While in this city, be sure to visit Parroquia de San Migual Arcangel, Juarez Park and the Artisan Market to get a feel for this area. Do not be afraid to walk in this city, it is very safe and effortless to explore on foot.

Bonus: Charleston, South Carolina, United States
We couldn’t end a friendliest cities list without mentioned the warm and charming city of Charleston, South Carolina in the United States! Cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions and multi-colored homes are all the norm for this city in the South. This city has so much to offer with its historic charm, excellent food scene and shopping. If you are a big shopper or want a bite to eat, head down to King Street or the Historic Charleston City Market. Both of these areas have great shopping and have restaurants and stands for wonderful food. If history is more your style, visit Fort Sumter, a Civil War fort, or the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, a historic house with tours and a lush garden to explore. Feel the Southern hospitality of South Carolina while in this gem of the South.

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!