Tag: tips

Latin AmericaTravel Tips

The Perks of Work: Employee Travel Testimonial – 11 Day Kaleidoscope of Guatemala & Honduras

on September 24, 2018

Guatemala & Honduras are two countries becoming hugely popular with tourists thanks to their beautiful culture and inspiring history. We caught up with Derick, an employee of Gate 1 Travel, who took the 11 Day Kaleidoscope of Guatemala. and we got the inside scoop on this Latin American tour. Derick will tell you about the Mayans, his favorite foods and the overall theme of his trip.

Why did you choose this trip and what had you heard about these places that made you decide on it?
I have never been to Central America and was amazed by the way the Mayans created technologies used in the modern day.guatemalahonduras1

Guatemala and Honduras are becoming one of the most popular international travel destinations, how was that reflected in your trip?
I wanted to do something warm with great floral and fauna, after doing some research I picked Guatemala as one of my choices.

What were of the highlights of your trip?
Lake Atitlan and the old town of Antigua was amazing. The texture and culture of those cities were very vibrant with life. I never saw volcanoes before but to be in the area of a live volcano was amazing. guatemalahonduras

What was your favorite meal or what food did you have that you really enjoyed or felt was very authentic?
The best meal I had during this trip had to be when we traveled on the Rio Dulce and went to Livingston. We ate at a seafood restaurant that specialized in a seafood soup that tasted like heaven on earth. You could tell that this soup was homemade. The freshness of the vegetables and seafood stood out in this dish.

How was the shopping and did you visit anywhere specifically great for shopping?
The market in Chichicastenango is great for shopping. Antigua offered some great items as well especially Jade and other jewelry.

What travel tips would you give to someone preparing to go on this trip?
I would suggest bringing great walking shoes and a good poncho. You are doing tours in the rain forest where it rains hard for a few minutes. Bug repellent and sunblock is highly suggested as well.

guatemalahonduras4How did you prepare for this trip?
I watched a lot of YouTube videos and did research on the archaeological sites. This assisted me with what I might be seeing.

Would you go back?
Yes, the food and culture were amazing.

How was your tour manager and what were they like? In what ways did they affect your trip?
Our group having Antonio as the tour manager was one of the special highlights of the trip. He was very personable and knowledgeable about his country. He knew so much information guatemalahonduras2about the history of the country and the Mayans. Antonio knew the exclusive locations to enjoy a nice meal or to get great photo opportunities.

What did you feel was the overall theme of your trip?
The theme of this tour motivated me to actually travel on this escorted tour because seeing the whole country in 11 days was something I never imagined.

How did being on an escorted tour affect your trip?
I made friends on this tour that I am going to remember for a long time, everyone was engaged and interacted with each other. We ate most of our meals together and felt like a family by the end of the tour.

Would you recommend this trip to family/friends?
This tour wasn’t on my bucket list, however I would highly suggest this country and tour to anyone.

guatemalahonduras3

#G1PhotoFridayEurope

The Iconic Scene of Giant’s Causeway

on May 11, 2018

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

giantscauseway

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

Travel Tips

5 Best Places to Travel this Summer

on May 3, 2018

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top 10 Things to do in Benelux
EuropeTravel Tips

Top 10 Things to do in Benelux

on April 9, 2018

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

10. Grand Place, Brussels

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

9. Bruges

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

8. Vollendam – Cheese and Clogs

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

7. Chocolates

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

6. Bastogne – Battle of the Bulge

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

5. Anne Frank House

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

4. Luxembourg

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

3. French Fries

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

2. Brussels

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

1. Amsterdam

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

MediterraneanTravel Tips

The Perks of Work: Employee Travel Testimonial – Dubai & Abu Dhabi

on March 29, 2018

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are hugely popular travel locations with rich histories, stunning cultures, beautiful buildings and friendly people. These cities are filled with brilliant architecture and majestic scenery built in a desert landscape. The area offers everything from high-end shopping, luxury hotels, incredible restaurants and plenty of adventures to keep you busy. We caught up with Lakiya, a Gate 1 Travel employee, who recently enjoyed a trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and we got the inside scoop on her trip.

Why did you choose this trip and what had you heard about these places that made you decide on it? 
I have 2 brothers that are Muslim. They speak highly about dubai_lakiya2the religion and I was intrigued to say the least. I wanted to know more about the religion and how it’s practiced in Dubai vs. how the religion is practiced here in the states. In addition to wanting to know more about the religion, I was told that they were very strict and that everything was bigger and better in Dubai; I needed to see this for myself.

Dubai & Abu Dhabi are becoming some of the most popular international travel destinations, how was that reflected in your trip?
There were several tour buses and various companies. Some places were very crowded like the Grand Mosque in dubai_lakiya6Abu Dhabi, the malls, and other tourist locations. There was a lot traffic in Dubai and it almost seemed as if the city never slept. However, the restaurants weren’t overcrowded and the bars/lounges housed a comfortable crowd.

What were of the highlights of your trip?
The highlight of my trip was the Desert Safari! Dune driving was a lot fun and the scenery was to die for! We were able to enjoy a traditional dinner at the camp site that included every aspect of their culture. We enjoyed watching the Falcon show, riding camels, getting henna tattoos, dressing in garbs and even enjoyed free hookah (Shisha).

dubai_lakiya5How was the shopping and did you visit anywhere specifically great for shopping? 
We visited the Dubai Mall. I wish we had more time to visit the Mall of the Emirates. The Dubai Mall had every store that you could imagine. The malls stayed open until midnight, which was surprising to me, I’m not use to malls staying open that late in the states. The souks were awesome too! It was fun to negotiate prices and talk the sellers down to a lower price.

What travel tips would you give to someone preparing to go on this trip?
Do your own research! It’s not as strict as everyone told me it was. So I wasn’t prepared to hang in lounges or let loose. All of my outfits were pretty loose fitting or conservative. I had to buy clothing to fit it when we decided to enjoy the nightlife that I didn’t think they had. Nightlife in Dubai was awesome!dubai_lakiya3

How did you prepare for this trip?
I prepared by packing loose fitting/conservative attire.

Would you go back?
Absolutely! I plan on going back in for Expo 2020!

How was your tour manager and what were they like? In what ways did they effect your trip? My tour manager was absolutely FANTASTIC! She did everything from providing history about the 7 Emirates, to providing over-garments dubai_lakiya4for the visit to the mosque, to providing converter boxes for us to charge our electronics. She made reservations for us to have lunch at restaurants on our leisure time and even told us about all of the lounges to party at on Thursday nights! She was very knowledgeable, extremely patient and I honestly don’t think that the experience would have been the same without her.

Would you recommend this trip to family/friends?
Most definitely! …………I already have! See you in 2020, Dubai!

 

 

 

 

Travel Tips

The Perks of Work: Employee Travel Testimonial – Iceland

on March 22, 2018

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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