Umbria -Archaeology in the Hill Towns

Umbria -Archaeology in the Hill Towns
Instead of concentrating on the medieval churches and their paintings, we go further back to tribes of pre-Roman Umbria and the gradual increase in importance of the area during the Roman period.
This is an unusual way of looking at the beautiful area of Umbria, home to the classic landscapes of tall cypress trees, ancient hilltop towns and olive groves which, for many travellers, represent the essence of central Italy.

The Iron Age Umbrian tribes inhabited independent cities which were as likely to be at war with each other as with outsiders. They shared a common language, related to Latin, but more closely related to that of the Samnite tribes to the south.

In 220BC, Caius Flaminius built a great road through Umbria which linked Rome to the East coast of Italy. This road had a dramatic effect on the communities of Umbria; those situated close by could take advantage of it and flourish, and those further away declined. In the turmoil of Rome’s civil wars, control of the road became important and Umbria was turned into a battlefield.
The trip is based in a single hotel in an attractively renovated fortified 15th century house on the plain west of Assisi.

Our tour traces the changing fortunes of the Umbrian landscape, the development and flourishing of Roman settlements in the valley, sited for ease of communication and trade, and the later creation of hill-towns sited for defence.

The Peloponnese from Homer to hadrian & beyond

The Peloponnese from Homer to hadrian & beyond
This is the land of Homer’s heroes and the great Bronze Age citadels from which they came. The home cities of Agamemnon, Menelaus and Nestor help us to put the Trojan War into its Greek context as a meeting with the world of the Hittites of Asia Minor, at a time when Greek colonists were hungry for land, and introducing their way of life to new territories across the sea.

In later times the Peloponnese was also home to major cities and sanctuaries of Classical Greece and, once again this part of Greece took centre stage in ancient world politics as the Peloponnesian War of the late 5th century BC brought the power of Athens to an end, and changed western civilisation forever.
Perhaps this was the memory immortalised by Homer in his epic poems. Certainly many aspects of the Mycenean culture rediscovered by Heinrich Schliemann clearly echo the world described by Homer.

We finish in Athens, and now spend two days here seeing not only the National Museum, but also the new Acropolis Museum, both with incomparable collections which illustrate all aspects of life and death in Ancient Greece.

Starting with the oracle at Delphi, as all great journeys should, we cross to the Peloponnese and travel through a beautiful countryside of mountains, plains and seascapes. Your journey follows the course of history through the coming of Rome, and then early Christianity, visiting the impressive Byzantine and Frankish city of Mistra.

Prehistoric Morocco early rock art

Prehistoric Morocco early rock art
All over the world, in remote and seemingly inhospitable landscapes, people over thousands of years have left physical renderings of what was important to them. In the foothills of the Atlas and anti-atlas mountains of southern Morocco lie boulders and fractured rock strata covered with incised animals, some typical of the Savannah and some domesticated species, as well as enigmatic symbols whose meanings remain obscure.

Over 250 sites have been identified in this region, and antelope, gazelle, ostrich, elephant rhino and lion, as well as cattle, horses and camels have all been immortalised on rocky boulders in an area from which the real animals have long disappeared.
This all provides the focus for a most unusual journey through southern Morocco. It focuses on the rich legacy of rock art sites, but even those with no interest in the art could not help but be impressed with the journey, the landscapes and the glimpses of contemporary life in this remote region.

Scholars today have attempted to classify these into groups on stylistic grounds, to date them using science and what is known of environmental conditions at various times, and to guess at their meaning/

The route follows non-tarmac roads and wheel tracks, and all needs to be covered in 4x4s rather than a coach. You will see extraordinary oasis towns, with gold, pink and orange walls which blend beautifully with the desert colours, impressive mountain scenery, pomegranate and palm groves.

Hadrian's Wall, walking coast to coast

The new Hadrian’s Wall footpath crosses wild and beautiful terrain, its route covering the shortest distance coast to coast across the country, following Hadrian’s ambitious frontier.

The Hadrian’s Wall footpath crosses wild and beautiful terrain, its route covering the shortest distance coast to coast across the country, following Hadrian’s ambitious frontier. Take advantage of the opportunity to walk the wall with a Roman military expert.

We are walking west to east, starting gently along the shore of the Solway Firth, watching for the first surviving traces of the wall and its structures east of Carlisle, and ending with the excavated fort and reconstructed bath-house by the shipyards at Wallsend, with an expert to explain the archaeology.

The Hadrian’s Wall footpath is well-defined, but can be rough underfoot and steep in places. However, there are superb views over the Cumbrian and Northumbrian countryside, once important for strategic reasons, now a wonderful bonus for our walk. You will come away with a very different understanding of Hadrian’s gigantic undertaking.
This is a real walking holiday (up to 12.7 miles per day every day). There is a coach pick-up each evening and a return to a comfortable hotel, but should only be attempted by regular walkers who can manage hilly terrain and a variety of sometimes difficult stiles.

Canals of Bangkok

Canals of Bangkok, Buddhist temples, float down the mighty Mekong, visit majestic caves, cascading waterfalls, stunning limestone karsts, explore Hanoi, sail a junk through Halong Bay, shop Hoi An, explore tunnels in Cu Chi, cruise the Mekong.
Description

From the vibrant cityscape of Bangkok to Halong Bay's magnificent limestone karsts, this trip encompasses the highlights of Indochina.

The center of the UNESCO world heritage listed town is quite small and is accessible either on foot or by bicycle. You can visit the most impressive of Luang Prabang’s 32 temples including Vat Vixoun, Vat Sene, and Vat Xiengthong. Why not pack a picnic to eat on Phousi Hill and watch the sun set over the horizon or rise at dawn to watch the monks walk through the city collecting offerings of food from the locals. Take an afternoon to browse the many textile galleries and relax and enjoy a local coffee in on of the town's cafes.

Thousands of islands rise dramatically from the waters of Halong Bay and, to further their beauty, intricate cave systems naturally exist throughout these limestone karst formations.

Europe- Amsterdam

Partying across Europe, exploring historic cities, galleries and museums, discovering medieval towns straight from a fairytale, embracing a variety of cultures, sampling regional wines and delicacies.
Description

Ah, a relaxing week’s vacation in Old Europa. What could be finer? Don’t ask anyone who’s taken this trip! Our seven-day odyssey across five countries is a blur of beauty, culture and adventure from start to finish, with loads of optional activities to pick and choose from. From the varied architectural wonders of Prague to the nightclubs of Amsterdam and Berlin to romantic Bruges and classic London, this trip contains more European awesomeness per minute than should be permissible by law. (We won’t tell if you won’t.)

Amsterdam is one of the coolest cities in Europe. Beautiful, hip, and laid back, with lots to do, lots to see, many pubs, food from all over the world and friendly people. A visit to this stunning city can feel like stepping back in time, surrounded by the charming architecture dating back to the 17th century. But this city is far from old-fashioned and will be best seen on foot or like the locals, by bicycle.

If you only do one thing in Amsterdam, make it a canal cruise. Amsterdam's canals are its signature and cruising these criss-crossing waterways puts the city in perspective while offering unique views of dozens of spectacular Amsterdam sights in a short period of time. Afterwards, head into a cozy bruin café o “eetcafé” (to the Dutch what pubs are to the British and Irish), local spots where friends gather to catch up over a beer or glass of house wine.

Southern Islands

Since pre-Columbian times, the site of Quito has been inhabited by the Quitus, the Shyris and the Puruhas. The Inca reached this city before the Spaniards, but levelled it to the ground rather than give it up to the Spanish. The present capital was founded by the Spanish on December 6th, 1534. Quito is separated into two basic sections, the old and the new cities. The old city is full of historical buildings and churches. One of the more noteworthy is the Catedral de Quito, located on the Plaza de la Independencia. Built between 1550 and 1562, it was one of the first neoclassical works in Quito. La Compañía de Jésus Church is considered one of the most beautiful in the Americas. The decorations in the Compañía contain approximately one and one-half tons of gold, and construction of the church took 170 years (1605-1775).

Encounter the island chain that has enchanted explorers since Darwin first weighed anchor off its shores. Spend eight days exploring the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos archipelago in the company of an expert Naturalist Guide. In the evenings, return to the comfortable g4 to reflect on the day’s adventures. Retire to air-conditioned cabins with exclusive lower berths and private bathrooms. As one of the region’s largest operators, we understand the importance of controlling the onboard experience—that’s why you'll never end up on another operator's ship.

Arrival transfer and Continental breakfast while in Quito, 7 nights in the Galapagos Islands, Visit to Charles Darwin Research Station, Incredible wildlife encounters, Daily opportunities for swimming and snorkelling, Flights to and from the Galapagos Islands, Snorkeling equipment onboard Galapagos Yacht.

There are several excellent museums scattered throughout the city. The Casa de la Cultura Ecuadoriana has an interesting display of traditional musical instruments and Ecuadorian traditional dress, a large art collection, and a small natural history museum. For archeology the best museum to visit is the Museo del Banco Central with its well displayed pottery, gold ornaments, skulls showing deformities and early surgical methods, a mummy and many other objects of interest. The small, rounded hill dominating the old town is El Panecillo or 'the Little Bread Loaf,' a major Quito landmark. From here there are marvelous panoramic views of the entire city and surrounding volcanoes. You can easily take a trolley (streetcar) or a cab between the Old Town and New Town.

Where I have traveled this summer- Antarctic

About Arctic / Antarctic
On an antarctic cruise, you have a rare chance to appreciate the beauty of one of world's most remote and unspoiled places.

Although Antarctica may not provide ideal conditions for sunbathing, the cruise will give you a chance to visit a magnificently scenic part of the world that few people ever see. There will be unique opportunities for face-to-face encounters with the exotic wildlife that dwell in this icy realm.

These includine a variety of penguins, crabeaters, Weddell and leopard seals, humpback and killer whales, migratory birds, and nesting Antarctic terns. In addition to the wildlife, the natural wonders of Antarctica will leave you spellbound. Imagine the awe-inspiring vistas of snowcapped peaks, sheer cliffs, giant icebergs, and clear, dark-blue waters.

I spent last summer studying abroad in Antarctic focusing on its emerging economy and the impacts of globalization in the developing world. This winter I will be spending three weeks abroad traveling through Fiji and New Zealand.

Travel to Hawaii

Hawaii is a land of curious paradox.

A place where the destructive force of volcanoes has created a fertile destination for you to discover filled with rainforests, waterfalls, warm turquoise waters, and black and white sand beaches. All these elements come together beautifully and form a romantic backdrop to your dream vacation. Imagine full days in the Big Island cities of Hilo and Kona, plus overnights on Maui and Kaua'i.

With all that time, you can drive the road to Hana, marvel at the rainbows in Waimea Canyon or stroll to a torch-lit lu'au. You'll see more of Hawaii for less on a Cruise!

The fresh, floral air energizes you. The warm, tranquil waters refresh you. The breathtaking, natural beauty renews you. Look around.

There’s no place on earth like Hawaii. Whether you're a new visitor or returning, our six unique islands offer distinct experiences that will entice any traveler.

Travel to Sardinia

Sardinia - Nuraghic Warriors and Phoenician Traders
Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
During the Bronze Age a dynamic society of warriors and traders developed on this rugged island, leaving behind them a staggering 7000 ‘Nuraghi’ - fortified round towers with associated villages. We also visit Megalithic, Phoenician and Roman sites and travel through beautiful countryside. The abundant and distinctive wildlife will delight botanists and bird watchers.

Until recently the importance of the island has been underestimated, partly because, one suspects, it was never colonised by the Greeks. Sardinia’s period of greatest prosperity and architectural splendour was BC, rather than AD. This was during the Bronze Age when a dynamic society of warriors and traders developed here, as shown by the presence of a staggering 7000 ‘Nuraghi’. The ruins of these splendid fortified round towers, some with outworks and associated villages, are a unique feature of the archaeology of Sardinia.

Sardinia has been popularly regarded as rather isolated, an impression encouraged by its rugged landscape and self-reliant islanders, who speak an obscure dialect and cling tenaciously to their customs and folklore. The archaeology tells another story, however, of rich prehistoric and classical cultures which were regularly in contact with other parts of the Mediterranean.

Together with the engaging bronze figurines - bronzetti - they provide an insight into an island society of intriguing complexity at an early date. We also visit earlier Megalithic sites, later Phoenician trading colonies and Roman cities as we traverse the island.

It is a wildly beautiful place - relatively poor and undeveloped except in pockets such as the busy capital of Cagliari, or the delightful Aragonese harbour town of Alghero.

Cruxton travel

Apulia - Caves, Castles & Cathedrals
The high plateau of the Gargano; the grain-covered plain of the Tavoliere; the limestone plateau of the Murge, fringed by rugged ravines on the west and shelving towards the Adriatic through olive groves and vineyards; these are the elements of the Apulian landscape which set it apart from the rest of Italy.

The high plateau of the Gargano; the grain covered plain of the Tavoliere; the limestone plateau of the Murge, fringed by rugged ravines on the west and shelving towards the Adriatic through olive groves and vineyards; these are the elements of the Apulian landscape which set it apart from the rest of Italy. Strategically positioned at the ‘heel’ of the peninsula, Apulia was a natural transit area between east and west, attracting new settlers whose influence is reflected in the archaeology and architecture.

Alastair Small has spent many years in excavation and fieldwork here, and has a close personal interest in the whole early history of this area. This is important because this journey does not concentrate on any one period, but seeks to bring you gradually to an understanding of the influences which have produced their unique character. His familiarity with Apulia means that he will be able to use everything you see as part of the story of the past here.

From the Iron Age Daunian warrior stelae of Manfredonia to Hannibal’s battle tactics at Cannae, Byzantine wall-paintings to the Baroque ‘architectural embroidery’ of Lecce, you will find this an intriguing and diverse holiday in a beautiful part of Italy. We have chosen three interesting and very different hotels; the first an attractive former convent and the last a stately converted palazzo, a Sheridan hotel.I cannot stand being stuck in a market or on a beach overwhelmed with tourists. In terms of materials, I just need my clothes and maybe a book or two for light reading

Freighter travel- Phil Davis's

Freighter travel- Phil Davis's

We've rented the same cottage in Dunwich on the Suffolk coast for seven years and I'll do it forever. There's just a pub, a fish and chip shop and a shale beach and it has a very austere kind of beauty. It's a bucket-and-spade holiday with my wife Eve, my little girl Amy, nine, and my son Hugo, 15, who joins us because he lives in Suffolk with his mother, my former partner Madeleine. We have a lovely time. It depends on the weather of course, but if it's sunny we can laze about in the garden, go for walks or drive to friends. Suffolk is very trendy now but I have history there. I've been in love with it since I bought a little cottage in Orford in 1984. That bit of the coast from Orford down to Woodbridge is my favourite place in the world.

Last Easter we stayed at the Elysium Hotel in Paphos. It was absolutely wonderful; a five-star hotel with lovely rooms and amazing food. We had a dinner and breakfast deal and I wasn't expecting much, I thought we'd eat out most of the time but we didn't go anywhere else. They also had a fantastic pool and the staff were charming.At other times it was part of the Hellenistic world.

South hall travel- Which was your best holiday?

South hall travel- Which was your best holiday?

I always try to go somewhere historic in Britain at Easter with my partner [David L Williams, a filmmaker] and our three children. Last year we stayed in a really lovely b & b near Hadrian’s Wall and felt really free; there was nobody there and it was absolutely stunning. We’d walk the wall in the daytime with a lunch the b & b had packed. We’d think we’d done brilliantly, but after hours of walking we’d find out how far we’d gone and it would turn out to be a mile and a half or something! It was up and down, but it didn’t matter. It was fantastic.

I discovered Northumberland fairly recently – the beaches there are so beautiful, and it’s like the Fifties up there: unspoilt and with very few people. Easter’s good for holidaying in England; we seem to get the warm weather then, and a rainy summer.

What do you need for a perfect holiday?

A camper van and the open road. I just love the feeling of “We’re off!” We did own one until recently, but we’ve outgrown it. We hire them now because the big ones are very expensive. I had a lot of caravanning holidays when I was young with my parents and have very happy memories, and this is me trying to replicate that.

What do you always take with you?

A washing line and pegs, a tin opener and a couple of books for each of us. We take Scrabble or Boggle or Bananagrams, probably all three. Lately we’ve quite got into Carcassonne, a game where you build a medieval city out of tiles. We get really into our games and then we go off them, so it’s good to have a few.

What’s your best piece of travel advice?

Always have double the number of pairs of knickers of the days you’re away, because anything can happen. You don’t want to get caught short.

Where would you like to go next?

Somewhere in Britain within an hour of home. I think Britain is very underrated as a holiday destination. I’d like to do things like walk the Ridgeway through Oxfordshire. I think we might do a bit of canoeing and camping in the Wye Valley next.

Freshly honed after the successful first trip, we present a tour to some of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world, lying abandoned in dramatic terrain in one of the least-visited of countries. The museums contain breath-taking surprises, with artefacts and mosaics of the finest quality. The infrastructure for visitors is new and all tours to Algeria are escorted by a police presence.