Tag: United States

New Year’s Around the World: Customs, Rituals & Celebrations

Gate 1 Travel on December 30, 2025

USA

In the United States, New Year’s Eve is celebrated with parties, drinks, and watching the iconic Times Square ball drop. Once the ball drops and the clock hits midnight, many toast drinks or kiss their significant other. The first day of the New Year is a national holiday during which many relax after the excitement of New Year’s Eve. In cities across the country this day is celebrated by watching colorful and festive parades.

The Rose Bowl Parade is an iconic New Year’s Day tradition in Pasadena, California, featuring elaborate, flower-covered floats, marching bands, and equestrian units leading into the Rose Bowl football game. This year, the undefeated No. 1 seed Indiana Hoosiers play against the No. 9 seed Alabama Crimson Tide.

The Mummers Parade is a lively and beloved Philadelphia tradition featuring elaborately costumed clubs that perform music, dance, and comedy in themed competitions. It’s one of the oldest continuously held folk parades in the United States.

Want to experience a new tradition for a new year? When 2026 tour departures open, events like the Rose Bowl Parade and the Mummers Parade can be found on our Special Events page, which also showcases other annual favorites including Mardi Gras, Oktoberfest, and more.

Japan

The Japanese New Year (Shōgatsu) is a family-focused holiday filled with traditions like cleaning homes, eating special foods like osechi ryōri (feast boxes) and toshikoshi soba, visiting shrines (hatsumōde), and ringing temple bells 108 times (joya no kane) to cleanse the old year’s sins. Children also receive money (otoshidama) in decorated envelopes, while families enjoy TV, games, and quiet time together.

At the end of December, the Japanese have numerous preparations to make to get ready for the New Year. Osoji is a thorough “big cleaning” of homes to sweep out the old year’s dust and bad luck. Bonenkai is a party thrown to let go of the past year’s troubles. Homes are decorated with pine, bamboo, and plum (kadomatsu) and kagami mochi (stacked rice cakes) for good fortune.

United Kingdom

Like the United States, people in the United Kingdom celebrate New Year’s Eve with parties, music, food, drinks, and fireworks. At midnight, people sing “Auld Lang Syne,” (which is written in Scots, a language similar to English and traditionally spoken in Scotland. This is followed by the tradition of “First-Footing” on New Year’s Day, where a dark-haired man brings good luck to the house with gifts like coal, bread, and shortbread. This represents the old year being ushered out while the new year is welcomed with good fortune. On New Year’s Day, many get together with family for a large meal similar to Christmas dinner.

France

On New Year’s Eve the French have a lavish dinner called Le Réveillon. This is a large meal with family and friends, featuring decadent food such as foie gras, oysters, seafood, truffles, and plenty of champagne, often ending with cheese and Bûche de Noël (Yule log cake). At 8 PM, there is a televised speech by the French President to the nation. As the night continues, celebrations range from intimate home parties to large masquerade balls with music and dancing.

Once midnight hits, the French participate in Faire la bise, a key tradition were air kisses (usually 2-4) are exchanged with everyone present, wishing them “Bonne Année!” Couples will also kiss under a mistletoe for good luck. At major public displays and events, especially in Paris, the celebrations include elaborate fireworks displays.

Germany

A major highlight of New Year’s Eve in Germany is Silvesterfeuerwerk. This is when Germans buy and set off their own fireworks, creating a chaotic but stunning spectacle. Another tradition consists of watching a classic British comedy sketch called ‘Dinner for One.’ Other unique traditions are Bleigießen, where Germans melt small lead figures and then pour them into cold water to interpret the shapes for fortunes in the new year, Guten Rutsch, many wish friends and family a “good slide” into the new year, and exchanging small tokens like marzipan pigs, four-leaf clovers, ladybugs, and horseshoes for good luck.

Mexico

Mexicans have a wide array of unique and vibrant New Year’s traditions. First is Las Doce Uvas, in which participants eat one grape with each chime of the clock at midnight while making a wish for each month of the year. Some people wear specific colored underwear for desired outcomes: red for love, yellow for wealth, green for health, pink for true love, and white for peace. Another tradition involves burning resolutions: Mexicans will write down bad habits or negative experiences they wish to leave behind them in the year that is ending and then burn the list to release them.

Unique New Years Traditions All Across the World

Across the globe, many culturally specific traditions are conducted to prepare for and welcome the New Year. Whether watching the ball drop in the United States, setting off fireworks for Silvesterfeuerwerk in Germany, or singing “Auld Lang Syne” in Scotland, everyone celebrates in their own special way. To visit the countries listed in this article, click here to view Gate 1’s full itinerary. What’s your favorite New Year’s tradition? Share this post on social media and tell us about your most memorable celebrations!

Uncategorized

Which Countries Celebrate Thanksgiving? Global Traditions Beyond the U.S.

Gate 1 Travel on November 26, 2025

Thanksgiving first started in the United States in 1621; it was a harvest between Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag people. As the United States evolved, this feast eventually became a national holiday. For many Americans, Thanksgiving is about celebrating family, giving gratitude, and enjoying a large meal. Popular foods eaten on Thanksgiving are turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.

Though the holiday most Americans know as Thanksgiving originates from the United States, there are festivals and feasts of gratitude and giving much like it celebrated in many other countries. Some version of Thanksgiving is now celebrated in at least 15 countries. Let’s look at a few of those now!

Canada

Canada celebrates Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October. This is about six weeks earlier than in the United States. Like the U.S., Canada celebrates this holiday by getting together with family and enjoying a large meal. Though the tradition is very similar, Thanksgiving in Canada does not stem from the same origins as in the U.S. Instead, it is seen as a simple harvest, a time to enjoy and give thanks to the Earth. Thanksgiving has been celebrated in Canada since the mid-19^th century. The holiday didn’t have a designated date until 1957, when the Canadian Parliament decided that Thanksgiving was to be celebrated on the second Monday in October.

Germany

In Germany, Thanksgiving is referred to as Erntedank. This holiday dates to pre-Christian pagan times. German farmers would hold celebrations at harvest time to give thanks for their luck. As a sign of gratitude, they would fill a curved goat’s horn with fruit and grain. This was named Cornucopia. As of present day, the Cornucopia is still a key part of the American Thanksgiving tradition.

In present day Germany, Erntedank is mainly a religious holiday. Celebrations, church services, and parades are usually held on the first Sunday of November. The modern version of the holiday still pays tribute to the farmers of the past, however, it mainly is a day of joy, delicious food, and giving thanks for the positive fortunes of the past year.

Japan

In Japan, Thanksgiving is known as Kinrōkansha no Hi (勤労感謝の日), which in Japanese means “Labor Thanksgiving Day”, and it’s celebrated on November 23rd every year, so although it’s close to the same time of year, the date usually differs from the American Thanksgiving. If the celebration falls on Sunday, it’s moved to Monday.

Kinrōkansha differs from the American Thanksgiving as it focuses on showing respect to those who work instead of just giving thanks for the last year. School children give cards or gifts to police offers, firefighters, hospital staffs, teachers, defense personnel, and the other people of Japan that work to help better the nation. Companies make sure to congratulate their workers for all their hard work and dedication as well. Like the United States, Japanese families get together to have dinner at home and relax.

This may come as a surprise, but there isn’t a designated “traditional” menu for Kinrōkansha. Japanese people generally plan meals with some of their go-to meals or favorite foods just like any other day, but many make sure their meal includes sekihan, a kind of rice with beans.

Saint Lucia

Thanksgiving in Saint Lucia is celebrated on the first Monday of October, making it a moveable holiday like those in the United States and Canada. Saint Lucia uses this holiday as a time for reflection and gratitude among the island’s population. Saint Lucians view it as an extra day off work, some families enjoy special meals, and a majority tend to have a more low-key celebration compared to the United States. Most of the food eaten is locally based, but other options such as jerk-roasted turkey with mango sauce are made to have more of a traditional American Thanksgiving feel.

Grenada

Thanksgiving in Grenada occurs every year on October 25 and is a public holiday. The holiday commemorates the U.S. military intervention in 1983 when a rouge government was removed. That day in 1983 ended a period of political chaos on the island, which had been occurring since the country gained independence from the British in 1974.

A typical Thanksgiving in Grenada includes community gatherings with shared meals, church services with prayers for peace and national well-being, and reflective events that honor the country’s journey through challenge and change. Meals served on Grenadian Thanksgiving combine tradition with a blend of American touch. Often had is roasted turkey alongside dishes like callaloo soup, macaroni pie, and sweet potato pudding.

Liberia

The West African nation of Liberia was formed 200 years ago by former slaves from the United States. These people brought numerous American traditions with them, including Thanksgiving. Liberian Thanksgiving occurs on the first Thursday of November, rather than the fourth. Locals who celebrate view the holiday as a religious occasion, many attending services at church to give thanks. Others celebrate by going to special concerts filled with dancing. Instead of having turkey, Liberians celebrate by eating mashed cassava, chicken, jollof rice, and other typical foods from West Africa.

Gate 1 Connections USA & Canada

Step into the Beauty of America’s National Parks: 5 Things to Love About Walking & Hiking Tours

Gate 1 Travel on March 5, 2024

America’s National Park system currently boasts over 400 parks, monuments, and memorials that span 85 million acres and counting. It began as a movement that emerged to preserve the beautiful landscapes that early Western explorers encountered. Thanks to that movement, you can still witness these awe-inspiring wonders for yourself.

Gate 1 Travel offers plenty of ways for you to explore and experience the best of what America’s National Parks have to offer. One of the best ways to do that is on foot. That’s why we’ve put together Walking & Hiking Tours that immerse you in some of the country’s most iconic natural landscapes. Here are five reasons to love our North American Walking & Hiking Tours.

#1. Unique Views

One of the biggest perks of a Walking & Hiking Tour is that your travels will take you off the main roads – literally. While driving through the National Parks might give you some good glimpses of the landscape, there’s nothing quite like hiking to the bottom of a canyon or through a redwood forest to see it from an entirely different angle.

#2. A Full Sensory Experience

When you’re walking through a National Park, your experience goes far beyond just the things you’ll see. Engage your senses as you feel the different kinds of terrain beneath your feet, listen to the sound of birdsong punctuating the steadiness of a cascading waterfall, and breathe in the scent of the local wildflowers.

#3. See the Scenery at a Slower Pace

Sometimes you don’t even realize how much you’re missing when you drive past a landscape. While you may still get the panoramic views of mountains and plains, you probably won’t get to see the finer details you can appreciate when you’re moving a little slower. When you slow your pace to a walk, you’ll get to know the land in a whole new way.

#4. Smaller Groups and New Friends

At Gate 1, we prioritize providing an enriching experience for our Walking & Hiking enthusiasts by maintaining compact tour groups. The limited group size ensures ample opportunities for meaningful interactions with your guide, your surroundings, and your fellow travelers, allowing you to make memories and friends throughout your journey.

#5. Balancing Movement and Comfort

While backpacking and camping have their own unique benefits, we understand that those experiences aren’t every nature-lover’s cup of tea. Our Walking & Hiking Tours offer a great balance of active days in nature’s beauty and relaxing nights in comfortable hotel rooms, with our motor coaches dropping you off and picking you up at the trailheads.

So, pack your bags and get your hiking boots ready! Whether you’re traversing red canyons on our 6 Day Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks Walking Tour or visiting America’s very first National Park on our 6 Day Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks Walking Tour, you’re sure to make lasting memories every step of the way. Want even more adventure? Visit our website today to browse all our Walking & Hiking Tours, both domestic and abroad.

#G1PhotoFriday USA & Canada

The Impressive Landscapes of Denali National Park, Alaska

Gate 1 Travel on February 28, 2020

Denali National Park is named for the highest mountain peak in North America; Denali mountain. This vast park is larger than the state of New Jersey at 6 million square acres and is virtually untouched by human hands. The adventures do not stop at the incredible views here. Camping, hiking, exploring and wildlife viewing are all popular at this park. Keep your eyes open for moose, Dall sheep, caibou and eagles while in Denali.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user Colin Odell using the hashtag #gate1travel. This beautiful view was captured in Denali National Park, Alaska on our 12 Day Classic Alaska with 7 Day Cruise trip. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Alaska trips here!

#G1PhotoFriday USA & Canada

The Majestic Canyonlands, United States

Gate 1 Travel on October 4, 2019

Canyonlands National Park encompasses over 300,000 acres of fascinating terrain in the southeastern state of Utah near Moab. Divided by the Green and Colorado Rivers, this area has long been shaped by water and erosion. The park is divided into four districts with the most notable being the “Island in the Sky”. It is located on a large 1,500 foot mesa that gives you incredible views of this massive park. You do not want to miss the unforgettable sights and scenes at the Canyonlands.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @rsergei2018 using the hashtag #gate1travel. This picture was taken in Canyonlands National Park, United States. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s United States trips here!

Did you know; Author Edward Abbey described the park as “the most weird, wonderful, magical place on earth. There is nothing else like it anywhere.”

Travel Tips

Top 10 Friendliest Cities in the World

Gate 1 Travel 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

Top Ten Reasons My First Gate 1 Tour Will Not Be My Last

Gate 1 Travel on October 29, 2018

By Douglas Lund

It’s been almost a month since my wife and I returned from our 9 Day National Parks of Canada with Lake Louise our with Gate 1 Travel and we are still reliving it in our minds over and over again. We met and befriended many incredible fellow travelers on this tour. Here are the Top Ten reasons we will be back with Gate 1 very soon:

10) Bang for the buck.

And while we’re tossing out cliches, this wasn’t our first rodeo either. We are both ex-airline and travel agency employees. We are veterans of over 40 previous packaged tours throughout the world. All with competing tour operators. In our experience none of the other companies featured such value for the consumer. Unlike their competitors, Gate 1’s listed price was the price we paid. No hidden extras or misleading advertising. It was especially nice not having to put up with the up-selling of optional excursions during the actual trip. We’ve been on tours where one is made to feel uncomfortable because the side trips required everyone to sign-up and pay or no one goes. Best of all, by paying with a check rather than credit card we saved another 5% off the advertised price. Who else does that?

9) So simple to arrange.

Gate 1’s website reservation process was straight forward and simple. Everything was easy to understand online and didn’t require numerous phone calls to put things into motion. When I did speak to a representative on the phone they were always patient and helpful.

8) Joining a new family.

Who would’ve thought that we’d return from vacation having made scores of new friends along the way? Not only did we share new experiences with folks from all over the USA as well as from Australia , but we came home with lasting friendships with people that share our same love of world travel. It was impossible not to become buddies spending so much time having fun together.

7) First class accommodations.

Upon arrival in Edmonton we were treated like welcomed guests. This was a first. On our previous tours we often felt like the hotel we were staying in saw us as discount visitors not worthy of the same treatment as their paying guests. The hotels we stayed in were modern and well-equipped. WiFi worked well in all of them. Comfortable queen sized beds with clean bathrooms were the norm. Having hot water for the morning shower was never an issue. Most had indoor pools and hot tubs.

6) Knowing where you’d be staying each night.

With other tour operators we often found our hotel reservations changing multiple times before and even during the trip. Not only were the Gate 1 hotels the same establishments as advertised but they were all conveniently located. No hour long bus rides to get to the center of action. Each evening we could easily and safely leave our hotel to explore the nearby attractions.

5) Clean comfortable and modern transportation.

Our tour involved quite a bit of travel between stops in the Canadian National Parks. Our bus rides never became uncomfortable or felt too long. There was plenty of leg room even for this guy who was recuperating from recent knee surgery. We could hear every announcement made by our tour manager over the P.A. System. The ride was always smooth and comfortable. A rather unique and very efficient system of seat assignments on the bus had couples changing seats every day. No arguments over being up front or on the “good” side of the bus. I didn’t have to line up to be first on the bus every morning. Best of all, our bus had cup holders which were filled every morning with fresh bottles of spring water.

4) A courteous and cordial bus driver.

Charlotte was more than happy to satisfy the various needs of our tour group. She was always first off the bus in order to lend assistance to those needing a little help. She drove smoothly and professionally throughout the trip and always kept her smile. She never lost her cool even with some of the clueless rental RV drivers posing a threat on the parks’ roads. When someone on the bus spotted an elk, moose, long horn sheep or other wildlife she was willing to safely pull over so that we might get photos.

3) Great dining options.

Unlike other tour companies that provide you with minuscule Continental breakfasts, our Gate 1 tour offered us a sumptuous full breakfast each morning serving real orange juice and not Tang. My cholesterol level rose on this vacation because of all the bacon and eggs I was able to enjoy each morning. Instead of packaged low cost dinners reminiscent of a college dining hall we were free to eat where and what we wanted for dinner. Our extremely knowledgeable tour manager seemed to know every eating establishment along our route and kindly offered suggestions. She directed us to many of the local specialty dishes and adult beverages.

2) A smooth comfortable pace.

As I mentioned, my mobility was somewhat hampered by my meniscus repair surgery yet for the most part I was able to enjoy all the highlights of the trip. For those that wanted to walk more there were ample opportunities to hike up a ridge or descend into a canyon or even circle a lake. Meanwhile others in the group could visit a shop or just relax on a bench soaking up the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. When my wobbly knee began to fail me near the end of the trip I was able to take a seat on the bus while the group hiked down to a waterfall.

1) The most incredible tour manager imaginable.

Whether you call them a “tour guide”, “group leader”, “travel coordinator” or “local expert” we have never met anyone more helpful, exuberant, knowledgeable, proud of her heritage or as professional as our tour manager, Karen Frey. The woman never stopped working at keeping us happy throughout the tour. Her organization was immaculate. She was never frazzled despite a couple of minor hiccups beyond her or Gate 1’s control (temporary power outage in one town and snowy weather elsewhere). She taught us, made us laugh, and kept us safe throughout the trek. Karen’s contributions toward our enjoyment of this tour convinced us to sign-up for five more Gate 1 tours over the next year and a half.

#G1PhotoFriday USA & Canada

Iconic Mount Rushmore

Gate 1 Travel on August 31, 2018

George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and Thomas Jefferson welcome you to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial in Keystone, South Dakota. One of the most famous landmarks in the United States, this granite sculpture is carved into the Black Hills in west South Dakota. These sculptures are 60 feet long and are visited by about 3 million people a year! Come visit some of the most important people in the history of the United States.

This week’s #g1photofriday was uploaded by user @Amy Bubenheim using the hashtag #gate1travel. This historic scene was taken at Mount Rushmore National Park in Keystone, South Dakota. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s National Parks and USA trips here!

Travel Tips

Our Top 12 Most Popular Tours of 2018

Gate 1 Travel 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 of 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 experience 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 price 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 16^th 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 ancient 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?

Travel Tips USA & Canada

Celebrating National Parks Week: Facts from our National Parks

Gate 1 Travel on April 26, 2018

The national parks of the United States are a long-honored treasure and a must see for tourists and locals alike. With these parks sprinkled all over the country, there’s something different for everyone! Whether it be snow on the mountains in Denali National Park in Alaska or plunging canyons in the Grand Canyon of Arizona, you will find adventure at its best right in America. We are taking you on our own tour through the country and highlighting some of the most fascinating facts from each of these parks. Put on your hiking shoes, grab your canteen and join us on this magical journey.

Arches National Park:

Arches National Park is located in Moab, Utah and is perfect for nature enthusiast, hikers, campers and geology lovers
Bring your camera to Delicate Arch; it is one of the most photographed sites within the park and features a large sandstone arch that you can see from near and far
The park contains over 2000 natural sandstone arches, it is a true one-of-a-kind adventure

Denali National Park and Preserve:

Mt. Denali, formerly Mt. McKinley is the highest peak in North America and it is right here in this Alaskan park
Mt. Denali was renamed in 2015 to pay homage to the native Koyukon language of the Athabaskan people
Denali encompasses 6 million acres in a sub-arctic ecosystem and contains fascinating animals such as grizzly bear, wolf, Dall sheep and moose.

Kenai Fjords National Park:

Kenai Fjords is home to an array of marine wildlife that includes orcas, sea lions and fin, gray, minke, sei and humpback whales. Animals to see on land are moose, goats, otters, hares, lynx, black and brown bears, wolverines and gray wolves
Exit Glacier is one of the parks most famous attractions because of its accessibility and gradual recession, be sure to listen to its crackle!
Paddle the fjords, go on a boat ride, take a tour with a ranger or take a flight tour while in the park

Wrangell – St. Elias National Park and Preserve:

This Alaskan park is the largest national park in all of the United States; it also covers the largest wilderness area in the entire National Wilderness Preservation System, it equals 6 Yellowstones
Mount Wrangell, from which the park gets its name, is one of the largest active volcanoes in North America
The Malaspina Glacier spills out from the St. Elias Mountains between the bays of Icy and Yakutat, this natural phenomenon is called a Piedmont glacier

Grand Canyon National Park:

The Grand Canyon’s appearance is mainly due to erosion and took 3-6 million years to form; erosion continues to alter it to this day
The Grand Canyon National Park receives close to 5 millions visitors each year
Grand Canyon was made a national monument in 1908 and established as a national park in 1919
The Grand Canyon area contains about 277 miles of the Colorado River and is populated by five main Indian tribes including; The Hopi, Navajo, Havasupai, Paiute and Hualapai

Yosemite National Park:

Yosemite has a huge array of things to do while in the park including Tuolumne Meadows, Tioga Road, Hetch Hetchy Valley, Crane Flat Area, waterfalls, rock formations, lakes and rivers.
Yosemite welcomes millions of guests a year due to its large area of over 1,000 square miles
Bears are plentiful in Yosemite so it important to follow the rules regarding bears and food storage while in the park

Redwood National Park:

Named for the tallest trees on Earth, this 200 square mile park is also home to prairies, woodlands, coastline and river ways
Hiking and camping is an excellent way to see the beauty of the Redwood National Park and some areas even allow a leashed pet
Find animals here such as banana slugs, gray whales, black bears and sea anemones to name a few

Sequoia National Park:

This park is named for the towering Sequoia trees and is located in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains
While the Redwood is the tallest tree, a tree by the name of General Sherman, a giant sequoia located in the park, is the largest tree in the world
Glacial canyons, large lake basins, green meadows and granite peaks are all natural sites that you must see while in this park

Mesa Verde National Park:

Located in Colorado, this national park is home to the Ancestral Pueblo people who have called it home for over 700 years
The park protects around 5,000 known archaeological sites which includes 600 cliff dwellings that can be seen while visiting the park
Mesa Verde means “green table” in Spanish and describes the beauty of plant life and natural formations in the park

Crater Lake National Park:

Named for Crater Lake, a caldera lake formed within a now collapsed volcano called Mount Mazama
A violent eruption occurred 7,700 years ago and caused the collapse of this tall peak, it was even witnessed by Native Americans in the area at the time
Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and it is fed by rain and snow; it is known for its dark blue color and excellent water clarity

Badlands National Park:

Layered rock formations, towering landscapes, towering mountains, and steep canyons all await you at this national park located in South Dakota
The park contains one of the worlds richest fossil beds and some fossils are on display for visitors at the Fossil Exhibit Trail
Highway 240, or Badlands Loop Road, is a great place to go for a drive and enjoy many scenic lookouts

Bryce Canyon National Park:

Bryce Canyon is located in southern Utah and is home to hoodoos, or crimson-
colored spire rock formations that make this park famous
The Bryce Amphitheater, a depression filled with hoodoos, is a must-see while visiting the park
Prime viewing hours for the park and its magnificent formations are around sunup and sundown, so get your cameras out during this time!

Zion National Park:

Located in southwest Utah, this national park is most famous for its steep red cliffs and beautiful rock formations
Sites that you must see while in Zion include Angels Landing, Virgin River and The Narrows, these sites are all great for a hike and picture
Enjoy paths and trails that pioneers and ancient peoples walked in this narrow slot canyon

Canyonlands National Park:

Canyonlands National Park was carved by the Colorado River and is located in the southeastern part of Utah, near Moab
Fantastic buttes, canyons, rock pinnacles called “The Needles”, Horseshoe Canyon and Island in the Sky, a flat-topped mesa, are all sites you must see while visiting Canyonlands
Rivers divide this diverse park into four main districts; Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze and the rivers

Grand Teton National Park:

This picturesque park is located in the state of Wyoming and encompasses an entire mountain range, the Tetons
The park is excellent for hiking, camping, fishing, mountaineering and getting excellent pictures
Must see adventures in this alpine landscape include Jenny Lake, an extremely picturesque site you will want a photograph of, Taggart Lake Trail, an easy/moderate hiking trail and Teton Park Road, a road that gives a nice overview of the park

Yellowstone National Park:

Wyoming, Montana and Idaho share this large park that is atop a volcanic hot-spot; this results in mud pots, hot springs, geysers and lots of steam
Old Faithful, perhaps the world’s most famous geyser, is located here and is named for the predictable nature of its eruptions
Yellowstone was the world’s first national park for good reason; mountains, forests, lakes, wildlife and the beauty of the natural world are all here for your pleasure

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve:

Located in the southeast Alaskan wilderness, this park gets its name for the immense glaciers that can be seen here, including the Grand Pacific Glacier
This huge park covers 3.3 million acres and includes every aspect of nature from steep mountains to large glaciers to temperate rain-forests
Be on the lookout for excellent wildlife viewing here including humpback whales, sea-lions, puffins and brown bears

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Pictured: Queenstown, New Zealand

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10) Bang for the buck.

9) So simple to arrange.

8) Joining a new family.

7) First class accommodations.

6) Knowing where you’d be staying each night.

5) Clean comfortable and modern transportation.

4) A courteous and cordial bus driver.

3) Great dining options.

2) A smooth comfortable pace.

1) The most incredible tour manager imaginable.

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Arches National Park:

Denali National Park and Preserve:

Kenai Fjords National Park:

Wrangell – St. Elias National Park and Preserve:

Grand Canyon National Park:

Yosemite National Park:

Redwood National Park:

Sequoia National Park:

Mesa Verde National Park:

Crater Lake National Park:

Badlands National Park:

Bryce Canyon National Park:

Zion National Park:

Canyonlands National Park:

Grand Teton National Park:

Yellowstone National Park:

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve:

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