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Chile

To get a full refund, cancellation must be no less than 8 days before the local start time of the experience.

If traveler cancels their booking from 7 to 0 days before the local start time of the experience, no refund is provided.

This is a full-day photography journey to the high Andean salt flats on the Chilean Altiplano. Located in the northeastern corner of the Atacama Desert near the border with Bolivia, Quepiaco, Quisquiro, and Tara are among the most visually striking and ecologically unique landscapes in the region. These salt flats—salars—sit at elevations between 4,000-4,500m (13,000-14,800 feet) above sea level and are part of the Los Flamencos National Reserve. Bounded by volcanoes and inhabited by flamingos and vicuñas, this is a remarkable setting for both landscape and wildlife photography.

At each salt flat, Mirko will explain the geological features of the wetlands and salt crusts, point out native wildlife, and provide practical instruction on how to photograph it. Because of the high elevation, this tour is best scheduled for your third day or later in San Pedro de Atacama, after you’ve had time to acclimatize.

This experience starts with a thrilling drive through the Martian landscapes of the Atacama Desert. This is a prime opportunity for quizzing Mirko about the region: it's natural history, its cultural legacy, and its wildlife. Salar de Quepiaco, Salar de Quisquiro, and Salar de Tara straddle the border between Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina. They provide a habitat for all three species of South American flamingos (Andean, Chilean, and James’s) as well as llamas, vicuñas, and Andean foxes. As part of the Andean Plateau (Altiplano), these salt flats hold cultural significance for Indigenous Atacameño communities. 

Mirko's experience contextualises the natural and cultural significance of the region. Rather than simply and shooting seeing the formations, you will feel the places visited—coming to understand how every element is intertwined. Primarily a photography expedition, the experience is focused on capturing landscape and wildlife photography under the guidance of a pro photographer.

Photography Tour of the Chilean Altiplano, Atacama Desert: flamingos, salt flats, and volcanoes.

The per person price of this experience assumes a minimum number of participants to cover base costs and logistics. The supplemental fee enables us to maintain quality and exclusivity for your smaller than minimum group

Salt & Feathers

The experience accommodates a minimum of 1 participants and a maximum of 4. Included are:
Photography guide and tuition.
Lunch. 
*This experience also features on Mirko's 4-day photo safari: Atacama Through The Lens.*

Sunscreen, sunhat, and sunglasses.
Comfortable and warm clothes. Note that the temperatures fluctuate in the Atacama Desert and you may encounter cold temperatures, intense sunshine, and strong winds during the expedition.
Trekking boots. 
Camera: this can be a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even a smartphone. Extra lenses and tripods are encouraged. 
Binoculars are recommended.

Mirko will collect you from your hotel in San Pedro de Atacama, Chile. Please advise the name and address of the hotel using the Fernwayer Chat function upon booking. 

Mirko Andrei Rebolledo is a licensed guide and professional photographer with a deep connection to Chile’s breathtaking landscapes. He has spent the last five years capturing the raw beauty of the Atacama Desert, where he works as both a wildlife photographer and a certified tour guide. Before moving north, he honed his expertise in the rugged terrains of Chilean Patagonia.

Whether leading photography-focused excursions or sharing his extensive knowledge of the desert’s unique geography, Mirko transforms each experience into an unforgettable journey through one of the most otherworldly places on Earth.

Morocco

Capture the essence of Essaouira on a photo walk led by Zack, a photographer who knows the city intimately. His quiet, observational approach helps you slow down, see clearly, and connect with the people and places around you. As you move through the medina’s alleys, you'll photograph daily life—craftspeople at work, shopkeepers in motion, light shifting across stone.

Essaouira is visually rich. For centuries, its economy centered on murex, a sea snail that produced a deep purple-blue dye. Today, that color still coats the boats, shutters, and doors that define the city’s palette. It's a natural setting for black and white photography—where contrast, texture, and light take the lead.

The walk includes a visit to Zack’s small, charming atelier, where his black and white prints hang beside books and journals that shaped his work. While the session focuses on black and white photography, Zack is happy to guide you if you prefer to shoot in color—using digital or film.

This experience is about learning to see differently. Zack guides you to focus on light, shape, and timing, rather than technicalities or gear. His black and white approach suits Essaouira, where the textures of stone, sea and shadow carry the story.

The route covers some of the city's most photogenic areas—archways, fishing docks, carved doors, and open courtyards. You'll capture scenes that reflect Essaouira’s past and present: street vendors, old facades, the pause before a gesture. The variety is broad—architecture, street life, seascapes—but the pace stays slow and observational.

This is also a personal process. You’ll explore what draws your eye, what holds your attention, and how photography can be used not just to record, but to understand. It’s suited to anyone with curiosity—no technical skills required. What you take home isn’t just images, but a sharper way of looking. The walk ends at a local café, where you’ll review your images and talk about what you noticed and felt.

Photography Tour in Essaouira: Capture people, culture & street life in B&W style in the medina.

Mirroring Essaouira's Soul

This shared experience accommodates a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 4 participants to make base costs and logistics work. If there are no other bookings on the day you want to book, you can choose to privatize the experience. Included are: a guided tour through Essaouira's most photogenic spots, a visit to Zack’s photography atelier, a coffee break at a local café, and personalized photography guidance to enhance your visual storytelling skills.

Bring a camera—whether digital or film—something that allows you to see and feel the moment. Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are recommended, as we’ll explore the city on foot. A bottle of water is also good to have. Most importantly, bring an open heart and a curious mind—this journey is about more than just photography.

Zack will meet you at your hotel in the heart of Essaouira. After booking, please send a message via Chat to share your hotel details.

Zakaria Mtilk, affectionately known as Zack, is a local photographer, a storyteller and a contemplative observer of life. Born and raised in Essaouira, his family has been part of the city’s fabric for generations. Zack captures life’s fleeting moments in stunning black and white shots, which he believes reveal the depth behind the everyday.  Zack sees his work as a form of storytelling and meditation, each photo a deep breath. Far from exoticism, his images document real life in Essaouira: its rhythms, its secrets, and its soul. He captures the disappearing details of the city, preserving them in frames that feel both immediate and timeless. 

Through Zack's lens, participants experience a profound connection to Essaouira’s history and its present, making each photograph a personal keepsake. More than just a photo walk, this experience is his way of giving back to his beautiful city and hometown, by sharing its authentic side with the world.

Türkiye

Kuzguncuk, a charming district on Istanbul’s Asian side, offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and vibrant street life. As you meander through narrow streets, your lens will capture the harmonious coexistence of cultures—historic synagogues, Armenian churches, and mosques standing side by side in testament to Kuzguncuk’s multicultural heritage. The community’s prized urban garden presents a rare opportunity to photograph locals tending vibrant produce patches, with the Bosphorus shining in the background.

Your photography guide will help you master challenging lighting conditions where sunlight streams between buildings, creating dramatic shadows and architectural contrast. This is a walk built for image-making, not sightseeing—rich with aged textures, quiet rituals, and rhythm-of-life moments often missed by passersby. Whether you’re into architecture, cityscapes, or candid portraits, Kuzguncuk delivers steady inspiration.

This guided photographic walk, led by a professional local photographer, guides you through a neighborhood that feels more like an Anatolian village than part of a metropolis of 16 million people. Your guide—intimately familiar with Kuzguncuk’s nooks and crannies—will lead you to vantage points where the Bosphorus unfolds dramatically between historic yalıs (waterfront mansions), and to hidden courtyards where time seems to have stopped.

You’ll learn to compose images that tell the story of daily life—fishermen mending nets by the water, artisans in quiet workshops, neighbors chatting in teahouses, and sun-washed staircases layered in ivy. Many residents are lifelong locals, creating a rare sense of continuity in a rapidly changing city—something that’s felt as much as it’s seen. İlkin will help you work with light, space, and motion to photograph authentic moments that reflect the soul of this tightly knit community.

Photo Walk in Kuzguncuk—capture golden-hour light, streets and layered beauty of everyday Istanbul.

Chasing Light in Kuzguncuk

Guided photo walk through Kuzguncuk.

Expert guidance on composition and lighting.
 
Coffee stop.

A camera or smartphone, comfortable shoes, and an eye for nature’s details.

After booking, you can Chat with İlkin for exact meeting point details, which will be on the Asian side of Istanbul. If you're staying on the European side, it's just a quick and scenic ferry ride across the Bosphorus.

İlkin Zeybek has spent years capturing the essence of Istanbul’s most photogenic and culturally rich neighborhoods, developing a keen eye for storytelling through natural light and architectural composition. His deep familiarity with Kuzguncuk—a historic, tree-lined district on the Asian side—makes him an ideal guide for photographers seeking to explore its unique blend of nature, history, and daily life. His ability to balance soft, atmospheric lighting with intricate architectural details ensures that every shot captures both the visual beauty and emotional warmth of the area. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned photographer, İlkin’s guidance will help you refine your technique, experiment with new angles, and create visually striking, story-driven images that bring Kuzguncuk to life.

Discover the heart of Istanbul's commercial heritage in this private walking tour. You'll start at the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. Erected in the 15th century, this expansive marketplace houses over 4,000 shops. Wander through its bustling alleys lined with traditional Turkish textiles, radiant jewelry, hand-woven carpets and rare antiques. Your guide will unravel the bazaar's centuries-old history, highlighting its pivotal role in bridging the East and West during the Ottoman Empire. 

After soaking in the Grand Bazaar's lively atmosphere, take a moment to relax with a traditional Turkish coffee at a quaint café nearby. 

You'll then continue to the Spice Market, a 17th-century site that was once part of the Yeni Mosque complex. As you step inside you can't help but smell the aromatic spices, teas and sweet delicacies. Centuries later, the market is still a bustling hub for spice traders and an essential part of Turkish culinary tradition.

This tour immerses you in the sensory world of Istanbul’s legendary markets. The Grand Bazaar’s labyrinthine alleys overflow with ceramics, lanterns, fabrics, carpets, gold, and jewelry. Here, centuries-old bargaining rituals blend with the rhythmic hum of commerce. At the Spice Market, the air is rich with saffron, cinnamon, and sumac—flavors tracing their origins along ancient trade routes from the Silk Road to the Mediterranean.

Navigating these vast, bustling markets alone can be daunting—getting lost in the maze-like streets, encountering persistent vendors, or struggling to discern authentic craftsmanship from tourist traps. Betul’s expert guidance transforms what could be an overwhelming excursion into an enjoyable, insightful, and enriching adventure. Whether you're a curious explorer or a dedicated shopper in search of the finest Turkish artisanal crafts, you'll gain insider access to the finest vendors and master the delicate art of bargaining with confidence.

Walking Tour in Istanbul: Grand Bazaar & Spice Market, Ottoman-era commerce, crafts, and spices.

The Bazaars of Istanbul

Guided exploration of the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market.

Traditional Turkish coffee and sweets.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as is a camera to capture the vivid scenes of market life. Participants may also want to bring a small backpack for purchases and a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the tour.

The meeting point is Starbucks Cafe on the Divanyolu Street, which is near Sultanahmet's tram stop.

Led by Betül Başak, a professional guide with a deep-rooted passion for Istanbul’s history and markets, this tour benefits from her extensive background in archaeology and art history. Betül’s insights into the historical dynamics of these markets, coupled with her engaging storytelling, enrich the experience, making it both educational and immersive. Fluent in English and Turkish, she excels in connecting with a diverse group of participants, enhancing their understanding of Istanbul’s historical and cultural landscape. You'll be accompanied by Betül herself, or one of her equally professional associates, such as Volkan.

This is a 3-hour cooking experience at the Amal Women’s Cooperative Center, founded by the remarkable Nora Fitzgerald Belahcen. Rooted in empowerment and inclusion, the experience offers a hands-on introduction to Moroccan cuisine while celebrating the social impact of food.

You’ll begin with a short introduction to Amal’s mission—supporting women from vulnerable backgrounds by training them in the culinary arts. From there, you’ll dive into Moroccan cooking: exploring local spices, learning the stories of each dish, and preparing a traditional feast with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Some recipes are cooked over charcoal, using bellows to control the flame—an immersive detail that reflects Morocco’s culinary heritage.

As your dishes simmer, you'll enjoy a traditional tea paired with homemade cookies. The experience ends with a shared meal; you’ll gather to taste what you've created and connect with members of the Amal team, learning more about their lives, resilience and work.

Take a taxi to "Association Amal" in Targa. We are located behind "COS O.N.E"

Unlike many cooking classes in Marrakesh, this experience is private, intimate and timed for an early dinner, featuring a selection of thoughtfully curated dishes to prepare and enjoy. It’s also intentionally designed to support a social mission: a portion of your fee goes directly to Amal Center, a nonprofit that provides training and job opportunities for women from vulnerable backgrounds.

Amal is more than a cooking school—it’s a space of transformation, offering hope and vocational skills to women rebuilding their lives. Under the guidance of the team Nora has created and trained, you’ll learn to make Moroccan classics like tajine, couscous or pastilla—while gaining insight into the flavors, techniques, and cultural meaning behind each dish. This is a blend of culinary depth, cultural immersion, and social impact.

The atmosphere is warm, filled with stories and shared purpose. Past guests often describe the experience as  delicious and moving—one that leaves a lasting impression.

Cooking Class in Marrakesh: Private access to Amal Center with local cuisine & social mission.

We start by learning the different spices that go into Moroccan cuisine.
Then we get to work! After we do the basic prep of our dishes, we put them on charcoal to cook and use the bellows to make sure the fire is hot.
Once our fires are going nicely, we sit and enjoy a tea ceremony, where the hosts will talk about Amal Center, it's special mission to empower women, as well as any and all questions guests may have about Morocco in general.
Once the dishes are done, it's time to enjoy the fruits of our labor!

Tasting Morocco at Amal Center

This experience accommodates a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 people. Included are a hands-on Moroccan private cooking session featuring a curated variety of traditional dishes, tea ceremony with homemade cookies, early dinner to enjoy the meal you’ve prepared, and a contribution to the Amal Center’s nonprofit mission. You’ll have the chance to wear a festive Moroccan kaftan during the tea ceremony, adding a joyful cultural touch.

Comfortable attire suitable for cooking, and a hearty appetite!


The cooking class is held at Amal Cooking Classes and Catering, Targa. Take a taxi to "Association Amal" in Targa. The space islocated behind "COS O.N.E."

This experience was created by Nora Fitzgerald Belahcen, founder of the Amal Center—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women through culinary training and job placement. The session is led by the on-site manager and supported by members of Amal’s original team of chefs—women who helped shape the center and now lead with warmth, confidence, and skill.

You’ll be guided by a small, welcoming team trained in the spirit of Amal’s mission: to use food not only as craft and culture, but as a path to opportunity and connection. Their deep knowledge of Moroccan cuisine and generous hospitality ensure an experience that’s as meaningful as it is memorable.

The trek to Toubkal Summit is a two-day challenging climb through Morocco's High Atlas Mountains, starting from the village of Imlil. This journey is renowned for its physical demands and for the cultural immersion and stunning natural beauty. 

You will ascend the trail through diverse landscapes, including lush valleys and rocky terrains, culminating at Toubkal Refuge for an overnight stay. 

The final push to the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching from the Marrakech plains to the vast expanse of the Sahara. The climb, while strenuous due to the rapid altitude gain, is achievable for those with good fitness and provides an exhilarating sense of accomplishment. 

The trek includes an overnight stay at the Toubkal Refuge area, where you’ll be accommodated in a private/double room with ensuite bath. This upgrade from the standard dormitory offers more comfort and quiet ahead of summit day. 

The excursion begins in Imlil, about 1.5 hours by car from Marrakesh. If you’re staying in Marrakesh, Ourika, or similar, please arrange round-trip transportation with your hotel.

What sets this trek apart is its combination of accessibility and high adventure. Located just a short drive from Marrakech, Toubkal is one of the most accessible high-mountain experiences in North Africa. 

The route passes through several Berber villages, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles and cultural practices of the indigenous communities. Unique flora and wildlife, including aromatic mountain herbs and possibly sightings of Barbary macaques, enrich the journey.

Moreover, the trek to Toubkal is a profound cultural immersion. The path you'll follow has been trodden by local shepherds and Berber nomads for centuries, adding historical and cultural depth to your hiking experience. This is an experience that will forever remain in your heart.

The trek starts in Imlil, traversing lush landscapes to reach the pilgrimage site of Sidi Chamarouch. Here we will have a picnic lunch, before continuing up the mule trail to the Toubkal refuge.

While Sidi Chamarouch’s shrine remains a spiritual site closed to non-Muslims, its market and cafes welcome all, providing a blend of spiritual and local commerce.

Begin your ascent through verdant valleys to Sidi Chamarouch.

Imlil to Sidi Chamarouch

After an early breakfast, we’ll set off for the summit of Toubkal, nearly 1000m above us. Technically this is not a difficult ascent, but it is demanding with sections of scrambling and loose scree – depending on fitness a climb of 3 or 4 hours. The views from the top are worth it though looking out into the plain of Marrakech and the Sahara.

Day 2 of the summit experience is demanding, with 8-9 hours of trekking in total across the full day.

The summit of Toubkal offers extensive views over the Atlas Mountains and the desert, a reward well worth the climb’s challenge.


Toubkal Refuge to Summit

After reaching the peak of Toubkal, take time to enjoy a light snack and capture photos of the panoramic views. The journey back retraces the steps to Toubkal Refuge for a rewarding lunch, followed by a descent to Sidi Chamarouch, and concludes in Imlil.

This segment of the trek allows for an extended period at the summit, where you can appreciate the vastness of the surrounding landscape from North Africa's highest point—a rare moment of tranquility above the clouds. The descent is notable for its scenic yet less demanding nature, offering continuous views as you transition from the stark mountain peaks to the lush valley floors, reflecting the diverse ecology of the Atlas Mountains.

Savor the summit and navigate a lengthy descent back to Imlil.

Return to Imlil

The path from Sidi Chamarouch to the Toubkal Refuge is a steep climb, taking you through increasingly barren yet striking mountain scenery. 

After a full day of ascent, you’ll reach the Toubkal Refuge—your base at 3,200 meters before summit day. Here, you’ll settle into a private/double room, and enjoy a proper dinner to refuel and acclimatize for the climb ahead.

Hike from Sidi Chamarouch to Refuge Toubkal

Most trekkers sleep in dorm-style bunk rooms with shared bathrooms at the Toubkal Refuge, often alongside 10–20 others—conditions that don’t support privacy, comfort, or restful sleep. In contrast, this experience includes a private / double room shared only within your group, based on your preference, each with an ensuite bathroom. It’s a quieter, more restorative way to spend the night at altitude. Keep in mind, however, that these are simple and modest rooms. In rare situations when all private rooms are booked out, Ahmed will arrange private/double tents for your party -- these are comfortable, safe and provide a peaceful night's sleep (in this case, the bathrooms at the refuge will be used.)

Meals are freshly prepared and more generous than the standard dorm fare, with a focus on nourishment and recovery. 

This high-altitude pause isn’t just practical—it allows your body to adjust, improves your summit chances, and offers rare stillness under the stars of the High Atlas.

Overnight stop at Toubkal Refuge with private or shared ensuite room, acclimatization, and full meal

Ascending to Toubkal Refuge

Hiking Trek to summit Mount Toubkal in Atlas Mountains from Imlil near Marrakesh with 1-night stay.

Day 1 : Imlil – Sidi Chamarouch – Toubkal Refuge
Day 2 : Toubkal Refuge – Toubkal Summit – Imlil

Conquering the Toubkal Summit

This experience can accommodate between 1 and 6 participants. Included are: guide services, a mule team for luggage during the ascent, meals as outlined in the itinerary, and accommodation in private room (or double room shared with a member of your group) at the Toubkal Refuge. In rare situations when the private rooms are fully booked out, Ahmed will organize an equal value private/shared tent which allows for a comfortable night's rest. 

Dress for mountain conditions: sturdy boots, waterproof jacket, warm layers, gloves, sun hat/cream, fleece/anorak for winter. Refillable water bottle and day pack for essentials. Toilet Paper.

If you need a trekking pole, let Ahmed know in advance. Also inform him of any medical conditions or physical limitations.

Be prepared for altitude, and respect Berber customs in the villages you pass. 

Travelers should arrange their own travel insurance for peace of mind in case of illness or accident.

The excursion begins in Imlil, about 1.5 hours by car from Marrakesh. If you’re staying in Marrakesh, Ourika, or similar, please arrange round-trip transportation with your hotel. The excursion begins in Imlil, about 1.5 hours by car from Marrakesh. If you’re staying in Marrakesh, Ourika, or similar, please arrange round-trip transportation with your hotel.

An experienced guide, well-versed in the region’s geography and the cultural nuances of the Berber communities. The guide offers not only navigational expertise but also insights into the local traditions and natural history of the area. They will ensure that you feel safe, welcomed, and well-informed.

Weather Safety Precaution: If the weather turns bad, Ahmed and his team may adjust the trek route to prioritize safety. Trek cancellations are rare and only occur in severe weather conditions, and only after all alternative routes for a similar experience have been evaluated. Your safety is always the top priority.

WINTER SAFETY: DUE TO POST-EARTHQUAKE CONDITIONS MAKING THE TRAIL AND TERRAIN MORE UNPREDICTABLE DURING THE WINTER, THIS TOUBKAL SUMMIT TREK IS ONLY OFFERED FROM MAY 1 TO OCTOBER 31. 

This cultural experience led by Omar Chennafi, photographer and cultural curator, takes you on a walk through Fes, blending modernism and tradition. You'll explore contemporary visual art scenes and meet traditional local artists and artisans, engage with live performance art – old and new, and dive into Fes’s rich cultural landscape. The tour includes a visit to a youth vocational center, showcasing the city's commitment to social impact and education. 

Omar's experience offers an exclusive glimpse into the intricate balance of modern creativity and traditional practices in Fes. This is an immersion into the city's artistic soul which is equal parts old and new, flavored with unique culinary delights and meaningful social interactions. All through, you will have the opportunity to take photographs, and get technical and cultural insights from Omar. 

This is culture in action: meeting artisans, seeing social impact projects, engaging with local traditions, youth centers and more.

This experience offers a unique opportunity to witness transition in Fes within an incredibly strong cultural foundation. You can expect to explore the following:

(1) Fes's evolving art scene via visiting galleries and engaging with contemporary themes that are reshaping Fes's artistic landscape. You’ll see traditional artisan workshops and observe how age-old crafts like leatherworking, metalworking, and pottery are being infused with modern techniques and designs. 

(2) The authenticity of Fes's performance art, where traditional Moroccan storytelling and music blend with contemporary performance styles.

(3) Savor the blend of traditional Moroccan flavors with modern culinary techniques. Sample dishes that represent the melding of old and new, reflecting Fes's culinary evolution.

(4) Visit to a Vocational Center: See firsthand how traditional skills are being passed down to the next generation ensuring the preservation of Fes's cultural heritage while adapting to modern lifestyle.

Cultural Photo Walk in Fes blending traditional and contemporary culture with expert photographer.

This cultural tour led by Omar Chennafi, renowned for his photography and deep cultural insights, takes you on a 4-hour journey through Fes, blending modernism and tradition. You'll explore contemporary visual art scenes and meet traditional local artists and artisans, engage with live performance art – old and new, and dive into the rich tapestry of Fes's culture and traditions. The tour includes a visit to a children's vocational center, showcasing the city's commitment to social impact and education. 

Tradition + Modernity in Fes

This experience accommodates a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 participants. What's included: Visits to art galleries and artisan workshops. Performances and insights into Fes's culture and traditions. Moroccan Tea and local culinary tastings. Visit to a social impact organization; a portion of the tour fee will go towards this social initiative. 

Camera
Comfortable walking shoes
Weather-appropriate clothing
Water bottle
A respectful and curious attitude
Stories to share 


After booking, chat with Omar to share your hotel details. If your hotel is in the Fes Medina, Omar can pick you up there. If you are staying elsewhere, he can meet you at a Medina gate.  This is a walking tour in Fes.

Omar Chennafi, known for his photography and cultural expertise, offers unique insights into Fes's art and heritage, making him an ideal guide for this enriching experience. He is the founder of "The International Artist Gathering of Fes," a highly successful project that promotes art as a vehicle for positive change. He has been instrumental in implementing a variety of cultural initiatives, which have allowed him to create a network across diverse artistic disciplines and operate in unique environments that transcend traditional boundaries.

Begin your day enveloped in the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia, where the surreal beauty of sunrise and the spectacle of colorful balloons create a perfect canvas for your personalized portrait photoshoot session. The unique geological formations provide an extraordinary backdrop. 

This experience starts with a convenient transfer from Göreme, allowing you to fully immerse in and capture the stunning scenery as you journey to your first photoshoot location. Accompanied by an accomplished local photographer, you'll visit iconic spots including the vibrant balloon takeoff area, the enchanting Love Valley Cave, and a picturesque hotel terrace. 

As the sky transforms with the morning light and balloons rise, Selim will capture stunning portraits against the dramatic backdrop of Cappadocia’s landscapes. At the end of the session, you will receive a curated set of photographs and high-quality reels that you can keep and share as mementos of your magical experience in Cappadocia.

This private Cappadocia photoshoot blends stunning visuals with deep cultural insight and curiosity. Selim’s ability to intertwine the landscape’s story with your personal narrative makes this experience special. What sets this photoshoot apart is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia alongside a professional local photographer. With deep roots in the region, Selim knows precisely where to capture the most breathtaking scenes—ranging from the vibrant spectacle of balloons taking flight at dawn to the serene beauty of secluded spots like Love Valley Cave and an exclusive hotel terrace.

This is a rare chance to see Cappadocia through the eyes of someone who has spent a lifetime exploring its contours and secrets. Selim’s warm hospitality and deep knowledge of the area not only enrich your experience with cultural insights but also ensure a genuine portrayal of you amidst these stunning surroundings.

Photoshoot in Cappadocia at sunrise with hot air balloons, caves, valley views, expert photographer.

Framed by Balloons at Sunrise

Guided visit to four prime photography locations.

30 professionally edited photographs, two 10-15 second reel videos, and ~400 raw photographic files. 

Transfer from hotels in the area. 

** This Experience may be modified if weather conditions are not conducive for balloon flights. In this case Selim will offer an alternative location for the photoshoot without balloons.

Participants should wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking and climbing in semi-rugged terrain, ensuring ease of movement between photo locations. We recommend dressing in layers, as early morning temperatures can be cool. Additionally, bring any outfits you wish to be photographed in that combine style with practicality, allowing you to change looks while maintaining comfort throughout the session.

This experience departs from Göreme. A transfer will be provided from hotels in the area. After booking, send a message to Selim via Fernwayer chat to arrange a pick-up.

Your host is a seasoned photographer specialized in capturing the unique essence of individuals against the stunning backdrop of Cappadocia. With a deep understanding of the region's light and landscapes, they excel in creating compelling and personal portraits that reflect both the subject and the setting. Their local knowledge allows them to select the ideal times and spots for photography, ensuring that each session not only captures you at your best but also incorporates the majestic scenery of Cappadocia. This blend of expert portrait photography and intimate familiarity with the area makes your host perfectly suited to provide this photoshoot experience.

Italy

This experience takes you on a journey through the rise and decline of the Medici family, exploring two extraordinary sites tied to their legacy. You begin at the Medici Chapels, the monumental burial place behind San Lorenzo. Far more than a tomb, this complex was designed to glorify the family’s power. You'll visit the Chapel of the Princes, a stunning display of Florentine mosaics and colored marbles, and Michelangelo’s New Sacristy, where art and dynastic ambition meet in sculpted form.

Afterwards, you stroll through the heart of Florence, pausing for a coffee along the way, before reaching Palazzo Pitti. Once the lavish residence of the grand dukes, this palace reflects centuries of Medici grandeur. You'll explore masterpieces by Raphael, Titian and Rubens, walk through the royal apartments, and gaze out toward the Boboli Gardens. Alongside beauty and magnificence, you’ll also uncover the private stories and scandals that shaped the dynasty’s dramatic fall.

What makes this experience unique is the way it reveals the Medici not only as patrons of the arts or political players, but as lasting architects of Florence itself. Their influence shaped the city’s culture and institutions, but also its very structure — from sacred chapels to private palaces, from hidden symbols to grand urban planning decisions that still define the cityscape today.

Guided by someone who knows Florence intimately and has spent years exploring its layers, you’ll gain access to insights that go beyond the surface. This is a journey through art and architecture, but also an exploration of how a single family forged the image of a city and projected its power through time and space.

Whether it’s a mosaic, a painting or a room with a view, each stop in this experience is a key to understanding how the Medici helped write Florence’s past — and, in many ways, its present.

Walking Tour in Florence exploring Medici chapels, palaces, mosaics, and grand ducal history.

The Medici Cast

What’s included: Full guidance, museum entries, coffee break.

You'll meet Guido in Piazza della Madonna degli Aldobrandini 1.

Guido Scattola is a licensed guide with over six years of experience bringing Italy’s cultural heritage to life. Born in Venice and raised in Tuscany, he found in Florence a city that captured both his heart and his curiosity. Since 2018, he has led visitors through its streets, museums, and quiet corners, sharing not only the grandeur of Renaissance art and architecture but also the subtle charm of the city’s lesser-known stories.

What makes Guido’s approach unique is his ability to balance the majestic with the intimate. Whether he’s guiding you through the opulent halls of the Medici, exploring the legacy of Dante, or unveiling the traditions behind Florentine fashion, he does so with contagious enthusiasm and deep knowledge. For Guido, every detail in Florence tells a story — and his passion lies in revealing how those stories weave together into something unforgettable.

This private ceramic experience blends Vietri sul Mare’s rich iconography with hands-on production. Just one hour south of Naples, Vietri is the gateway to the Amalfi Coast, renowned for its centuries-old ceramic traditions. Begin with coastal views and a stroll through historic streets, sampling delizia al limone and sfogliatella to set the tone for your creative adventure.

At the workshop, Elvira introduces the majolica ceramic process, a craft that has flourished here since the Renaissance. You’ll mold a donkey, a beloved emblem of Vietri’s ceramics and traditions. Next, you’ll learn the glazing process by painting a lemon with flowers and leaves, celebrating the Amalfi Coast’s beauty. Throughout the experience, you’ll gain insight into the symbolism behind various motifs that have shaped local folklore and craftsmanship.

To conclude, toast your creation with Cetara’s famous anchovies paired with exquisite Campania wine, the perfect farewell to your artistic and cultural journey.

You will experience the rich cultural heritage of Vietri sul Mare through the art of handcrafting ceramics. Vietri sul Mare is the birthplace of Amalfi Coast ceramics, making it the perfect setting to experience majolica artistry firsthand. Unlike standard ceramic workshops, this experience will deepen your connection to the region's artistic and cultural identity through a blend of creativity, history, and flavors.

Under the guidance of Elvira, a skilled master ceramist, you will discover the symbolic meaning behind Vietri's traditional motifs, from the beloved donkey to the sun-drenched lemons of the Amalfi Coast. The hands-on approach ensures a personalized and meaningful creation and understanding of the fascinating majolica production process.

To top it off, a farewell aperitif featuring Cetara's famed anchovies and Campania wine will bring art, tradition, and local flavors together, in a memorable experience and a story that you create with your own hands.

Craft Workshop near Naples, modeling clay and glazing majolica following Vietri's tradition.

Donkeys & Lemons In Clay

This experience is designed for a minimum of 2 and maximum of 8 people. What is included: All tools, raw materials, and firing services for your ceramic piece. Coffee, tea, and water are available throughout the experience. a farewell aperitif featuring Cetara's famed anchovies and Campania wine. Artistic insights and guidance. 

Shipping Option: Elvira can arrange shipping for your finished piece. Since costs vary by destination, you can request a quote on-site.

Your curiosity and creativity
Aprons and lab coats are provided, but comfortable clothing is recommended
It's best to keep nails short for easier handling of the clay

Meet at Elvira’s studio: Corso Umberto Iᵒ, 102, located in the courtyard of a building in the historic center of Vietri sul Mare.

From Naples: An easy trip, just 1 hour south, perfect for a day trip. 
From Amalfi: About 40 minutes by car or bus, following the scenic coastal road.
By Train: The plaza is a 5-minute walk from Vietri sul Mare-Amalfi station.
By Car: Take the Vietri exit.

Elvira is an architect with a passion for preserving cultural and environmental heritage through innovative ceramic design. Her work seamlessly blends intellectual and hands-on craftsmanship, reflecting her belief that creativity enriches the individual.

Her journey with clay began in university, where she crafted small architectural models—her first exploration of transforming two-dimensional concepts into tangible forms. Growing up in Vietri sul Mare, it was only natural for ceramics to become her primary artistic medium.

For years, Elvira has welcomed travelers and enthusiasts, offering immersive, hands-on experiences in majolica production, sharing Vietri’s rich ceramic tradition with the world.

Rovinj invites slowness. It’s a town best explored on fork or glass in hand, with time to stop—often. This three-day itinerary offers a thoughtful pace through its stone-lined alleys, seaside kitchens, and sun-drenched vineyards, where each experience feels close to the land, and closer still to the people who live by it.

Your journey begins in Rovinj’s Old Town, a maze of worn steps and cascading homes perched above the Adriatic. Mornings are for wandering the harbor and watching the rhythms of the fishing boats; midday leads you to the local market, where seasonal produce and handmade cheeses speak to Istria’s generous soil. In the afternoon, a boat ride through Lim Fjord adds contrast—quiet water, steep cliffs, and stillness that settles in.

Day two is dedicated to flavor and touch. “A Kitchen Among Olive Trees” is more than a cooking class—it’s a full-sensory dive into Istrian culinary culture, hosted by locals with deep knowledge of land, oil, and tradition. The afternoon brings you to St. Euphemia Church, where a climb to the bell tower reveals sweeping views of sea, rooftops, and sky—a quiet reward before another intimate dinner.

The final day pulls you inland. A full-day wine experience takes you to Rovinj’s vineyards, where crisp whites and deep reds are poured beside vineyard paths and old cellars. It’s a generous and slow-moving day, designed for both learning and tasting. You’ll close with one last look at the fjord, a soft light setting over the water as you reflect on days well spent.

This is an invitation to pause, cook, sip, and look closely. Rovinj rewards travelers who resist the rush.

𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘖𝘚 𝘢𝘱𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

Croatia

Slow Days in Rovinj

3-day itinerary in Rovinj exploring coastal streets, Istrian cuisine, olive groves, and local wines.

United States

The Algarve reveals itself through art and craft, hands in the soil, stories passed between generations, and the rhythm of coastal life. This four-day itinerary begins in Aljezur, where an organic farm visit offers more than a look at local agriculture—it grounds you in the region’s values. In Monchique, traditional crafts and social impact initiatives highlight efforts to preserve cultural identity while building economic resilience. Along the coast, the Benagil Caves and salt flats of Castro Marim offer natural beauty shaped by time and use. Throughout the journey, you’ll meet artisans, farmers, and changemakers whose work ties heritage to the present. With space for reflection and unhurried connection, this is travel that leaves something behind—understanding, respect, and a deeper sense of place.

𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘖𝘚 𝘢𝘱𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

Portugal

Algarve’s Crafts, Land and Sea

4-day itinerary in Algarve merging social impact with craft, coastal beauty, and living traditions.

This 10-day itinerary moves through Andalusia’s most expressive cities—Seville, Cádiz, Ronda, Málaga, and Granada—balancing guided experiences with time to wander. You’ll follow a one-way route from Seville to Málaga to minimize travel and deepen your experience. From Moorish palaces to Roman ruins and vibrant markets, this trip is an invitation to engage with Andalusia as a living culture. Along the way, you’ll find curated experiences, hotel and dining recommendations, and insights from two locals who know this region intimately.

Seville is your entry point—fly in and settle into a city where architecture, energy, and rhythm shape the streets. Visit the Alcázar, take a masterclass in flamenco’s quieter meanings, and explore hidden workshops in Triana. | Cádiz follows, and with it, the feeling of arrival into a deeper past. Here, you’ll walk seaside ramparts, taste freshly caught fish in local markets, and join locals for a casual tapas crawl. Don’t miss the Carnival, if your timing aligns. | Ronda offers slower breath and cliffside drama. With its sweeping views and old-world charm, this is the perfect place for a horseback ride, a visit to a family-run bodega, or a hike into the surrounding countryside. | Málaga, long overlooked, now leads with contemporary art and bold cuisine. | Granada, your final stop, gathers everything—Islamic architecture, Jewish heritage, Spanish tradition. The Alhambra is a must, but so are the Albaicín’s narrow alleys and the city’s soulful street corners.

Trains run between some major cities, but not all. To follow this route with ease, we recommend car rentals or arranged transfers between accommodations. Begin in Seville and fly out from Málaga.

𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘪́𝘢 𝘑𝘰𝘴𝘦́ 𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦, 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘦𝘱𝘢 𝘉𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘢, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘓𝘶𝘤𝘪́𝘢 𝘕𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘪𝘳𝘰, 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘤𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘈𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.

Cádiz as a place of convergence: María José was born and raised in Cádiz, and her eyes sparkle with pride and nostalgia as she describes this ancient city where history, culture, and the sea converge. It’s a place where stories of Phoenician sailors, Roman conquerors, and Moorish poets are continually retold. Reflecting on her childhood, she recalls the close-knit neighborhood where people relied on one another. Carnival—an annual February tradition—was central. Lucía remembers it too; her grandmother was a seamstress who hand-stitched elaborate costumes each year. 

The essence of Andalusia, María José says, is best experienced not through spectacles, but through shared moments. Conversations in taverns. Crafts passed down through generations. Hospitality that’s unforced and real. Strangers are often welcomed like friends—invited into homes, kitchens, or village fiestas. Here, you’re never just an observer.

There’s growing interest in pairing cultural travel with nature, wellness, and gastronomy. Think horseback safaris, slow treks, and olive oil tastings under ancient trees. For María José and Lucía, true luxury is about access to spaces and stories that are otherwise closed to tourists: a private sherry tasting in a centuries-old bodega, a sunset boat ride in Doñana, or a morning spent with artisans in a whitewashed village. This is the Andalusia they want travelers to know. 

𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴.

Spain

Andalusia: Seville to Granada

Andalusia itinerary 10 days with Seville, Cádiz, Ronda, Málaga, Granada, heritage and cuisine.

Over three enriching days in Cádiz, we delved into a city where history whispers from ancient walls and tradition flourishes in the lively streets. From the grandeur of the Cathedral de la Santa Cruz to the vibrant rhythms of Jerez’s flamenco, this itinerary is a testament to Cádiz's enduring spirit. It blends cultural immersion with natural wonders and culinary delights, offering a glimpse into the Andalusian-Arab legacy, the allure of sherry, and the untamed beauty of Doñana National Park. There are layers to Cádiz’s multifaceted charm, and we hope travelers will explore, learn, and indulge in the rich tapestry of experiences that define this timeless city – as we did!

𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘖𝘚 𝘢𝘱𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

Salt, Song and Time in Cádiz

3-day itinerary in Cádiz blending Moorish history, flamenco traditions, sherry, sea-slowed meals.

Hub Cities: Venice, Florence, Rome

Duration: 7 days — 3 days in Venice, 1 day in Trieste, 1 day in Florence and 3 days in Rome

Trip Highlights: This seven-day itinerary takes travelers on a romantic journey through 4 of Italy’s iconic cities. Start in Venice by exploring its light and shadows, visiting historic sites like St. Mark’s Cathedral and Doge’s Palace, and savoring its divine cuisine. Experience a secret lagoon tour, a gondola ride, and the charming Dorsoduro district to complete your Venetian adventure. Continue to Trieste, exploring local vineyards with guided tastings, all while enjoying the breathtaking views along the Italian-Slovenian border. In Florence, visit the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries. The journey concludes in Rome with cultural explorations, a wine masterclass, and dining at authentic Roman trattorias.

Trip Notes: Travel between cities by train for a seamless experience.

𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘖𝘚 𝘢𝘱𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

Italy: Canals to Colosseum

7-day itinerary across Venice, Florence and Rome, an iconic mix of history, culture, art, and food

Seville in Shadow and Light is a five-day journey into the city’s most enduring expressions of faith, artistry, and tradition. From the soaring vaults of its Gothic cathedral and the archives that shaped an empire to Andalusian crafts, flamenco’s living pulse, and the quiet elegance of noble palaces, each day moves deeper into Seville’s character. Guided tours and workshops are paired with flexible explorations, inviting travelers to experience the city not as a checklist but as a rhythm of devotion, creativity, and daily life.
DAY 1 – ARCHIVES AND CATHEDRALS | Begin with a guided tour of Andalusia’s sacred crafts, where devotion and artistry meet in unexpected forms. In the afternoon, visit the General Archive of the Indies before stepping into Seville Cathedral. End the day climbing the Giralda tower at your own pace for sweeping views across the city.
DAY 2 – MUSEUMS AND DANCE | Spend the morning at the Museum of Popular Arts, a Neo-Mudéjar pavilion in Maria Luisa Park that preserves Andalusian traditions in costume, craft, and design. Later, join a Sevillanas class with a dancer who introduces the rhythms and gestures of this joyful tradition.
DAY 3 – ART AND FLAMENCO STYLE | Start the day at the Museo de Bellas Artes, where Spain’s second most important art collection unfolds from Murillo to Zurbarán. In the afternoon, take part in a flamenco styling workshop in Triana, as a designer reveals how fabric, form, and movement shape this iconic art.
DAY 4 – PALACES AND ALCÁZAR | Begin with a walk through Seville’s noble residences, from the courtyards of Casa Pilatos to the halls of Palacio de las Dueñas, once home to the Duchess of Alba. After a pause, join a guided after-hours visit to the Alcázar, entering its gardens and chambers once the crowds have gone.
DAY 5 – BULLS, TRIANA, AND THE RIVER | Travel into the countryside on a day trip to a historic ranch that preserves the heritage of the toro bravo, with insights into Spain’s most emblematic animal. Back in the city, spend the afternoon wandering the streets of Triana before continuing along the Guadalquivir promenade.
WHERE TO STAY IN SEVILLE | Seville’s historic center, around the Cathedral and Santa Cruz, is ideal for travelers who want to be immersed in monuments, gardens, and winding alleys. Triana, across the river, offers a more local rhythm, with tapas bars, flamenco studios, and a neighborhood feel. Both areas are walkable and well connected, letting you choose between the intimacy of the old city and the vibrancy of daily life.
PLAN YOUR TRIP | At Fernwayer, we believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for exploration at your own rhythm. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Seville in Shadow and Light

5 days in Seville exploring flamenco, palaces, toro bravo heritage, Triana, and the Cathedral.

Fes moves at the pace of intention—through hands that craft, stories that endure, and streets that remember. This four-day itinerary is designed to experience the city not from a distance, but from within. It’s a journey built on conversation, tradition, and daily rituals that still carry meaning.

Your time begins in the calm of a riad, where a portrait session and henna ceremony introduce the elegance of Moroccan hospitality and dress. In the afternoon, a guided photo walk invites you into the medina’s light and movement—capturing not just images, but insight into how the city breathes.

On day two, you cook what you’ve sourced, learning to prepare classic dishes in the flow of the market. The flavors carry memory, the process carries lineage. Later, at Al-Attarine Madrasa, geometry and detail reveal the intellectual and artistic sophistication of Islamic Morocco.

The third day opens at the Nejjarine Museum, tracing the arc of wooden craftsmanship. Then comes a deeper look at Berber culture—through healing traditions, bread-making, and domestic arts practiced for generations. These aren’t performances—they’re living legacies, generously shared.

Your final day moves toward the future, exploring how traditional forms evolve in contemporary Fes. A visit to the Merenid Tombs offers a high, quiet view over the city, framing what you’ve just lived through: not a list of sites, but a rhythm of presence. You’ll close the experience over dinner in a restored historic house, where old beauty continues to welcome.

𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘖𝘚 𝘢𝘱𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

Fes In the Folds of Time

4-day itinerary in Fes exploring medina life, Berber heritage, henna, souks, crafts, Moroccan food.

Istanbul is a city best experienced slowly, not rushed. It invites you to walk its streets, savor its flavors, and absorb its atmosphere without rushing through. This five-day itinerary offers an immersive exploration of Istanbul through its food, history, art, and daily life. Each day thoughtfully combines two guided experiences with ample time to explore on your own. From iconic landmarks to bustling local markets and engaging workshops, you’ll see Istanbul from different angles, including its history, creativity, and daily culture.

DAY 1 – GRAND BAZAAR, SULTANAHMET, AND GOLD LEAF ART | Begin your day with a guided breakfast tour around the Grand Bazaar, just as the city stirs to life. Taste traditional Turkish pastries and street foods while learning about local culinary traditions and merchant life. Afterward, head to Sultan Ahmet Park to admire the iconic views of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the delicate art of tezhip by joining a gold leaf workshop with a local artist.

DAY 2 – THE OLD CITY AND TURKISH WINE | Start with a walking tour through the historic center of Constantinople. You’ll visit ancient cisterns, churches, and hear stories that shaped the city. After lunch, enjoy a slower pace. In the early evening, take part in a wine tasting and learn about the different wine regions and grapes of Türkiye.

DAY 3 – CITY LEGENDS AND A RAKI NIGHT | Today’s tour focuses on myths and legends. You’ll hear about saints, sultans, rebels, and writers as you walk through neighborhoods rich in stories. The afternoon is free to explore. At night, sit down to a rakı dinner in a local tavern, where food and conversation come together in a lively setting.

DAY 4 – FOOD, BOATS, AND SHADOW PUPPETS | Spend the day discovering Istanbul through its food. Visit the Spice Bazaar, then take a ferry to the Asian side, where you’ll continue by minibus and taste dishes in local markets. In the afternoon, join a traditional Karagöz shadow puppetry workshop and learn about this centuries-old art form.

DAY 5 – SUNRISE VIEWS AND A SPICE-FILLED FAREWELL | Start your day with a sunrise photography walk along Galata Bridge. As the city begins to stir, you’ll capture fishermen, ferries, and minarets in the morning light. After the walk, enjoy a quiet coffee or light bite nearby and soak in your final hours in Istanbul. In the early afternoon, take part in a guided tasting experience focused on Turkey’s spice culture. Through blind tastings, mezze pairings, and regional wines, you’ll explore the rich flavors that shaped the country’s cuisine and close your trip on a delicious note.

WHERE TO STAY IN ISTANBUL | Stay in Karaköy or Cihangir if you want to be central and close to cafés and galleries. For walking access to the monuments, choose Sultanahmet. If you prefer a quieter, local vibe, Moda on the Asian side is a great option.

PLAN YOUR TRIP | At Fernwayer, we believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Istanbul Through the Senses

5 days in Istanbul with guided tours, unique activities to do, local markets, and art workshops.

This 7-day itinerary offers a layered introduction to Catalonia, curated by Fernwayer experience-maker and collaborator Manila DiMaira. A native of Sicily and longtime resident of Barcelona, Manila blends insight with a deep curiosity. Her suggested route balances the bold energy of the city with the slower rhythm of the countryside — from Barcelona’s cultural core to the vineyards of Priorat, the wetlands of the Ebro Delta, and the historic charm of Girona.
Begin with three days in Barcelona, where Manila recommends focusing not on checklists but on rhythm: explore historic neighborhoods, check out design ateliers, sample Catalan cuisine, and seek out the quieter corners still alive with local tradition. | Head south into the wine country of Priorat, a lesser-known region with rolling hills and medieval villages. Stay in Siurana, a cliffside hamlet with sweeping views and access to local winemakers. | Continue to the Ebro Delta, one of Spain’s richest ecological regions. Here, you can bike through rice paddies, watch migratory birds, and experience a side of Catalonia rarely included in mainstream itineraries. | End in Girona, a city of ancient walls, celebrated chefs, and architectural quiet. It offers a slower, more introspective contrast to the pulse of Barcelona.
This itinerary reflects what Manila calls the “true essence of Catalonia” — a place of cultural pride, natural beauty, and distinct local identity. Manila first arrived in Barcelona more than two decades ago, while finishing her studies in Rome. She needed an internship for her thesis and chose Barcelona without expecting how quickly she’d feel at home.“Barcelona, 22 years ago, was a different place,” she says. “It was less cosmopolitan, more local. I remember wandering through narrow streets and finding tiny bars with real flamenco. It felt genuinely lived in.”
 “Tourism has definitely changed things,” she admits. “Places like La Rambla are overcrowded. Many locals have been pushed out by the rise in tourist rentals. But Catalans are proud of their traditions. They’ve started resisting these changes to preserve the city’s character.” That character is what Manila has grown to love. “I chose Barcelona because I felt an immediate connection. The Mediterranean lifestyle, the weather, the proximity to mountains and sea — it feels like home but also stretches me outside my comfort zone.” She relishes the contrast to her native Sicily. “I can take a train and be skiing in the Pyrenees in just over an hour. Where else do you get that?”
What keeps her in Barcelona is the balance of tradition and openness. “The cuisine, the olive groves, the vineyards — they remind me of southern Italy, but they’re uniquely Catalan.” And the city’s connectivity has made it easy to stay rooted while maintaining close ties to Italy. She speaks with admiration about the people: “Catalans are proud, resilient, and united. They have a strong sense of identity and community. Whether through demonstrations or cultural festivals, they come together. They’re efficient and organized, but also keep that relaxed Mediterranean vibe. It’s a unique combination.”
𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘖𝘚 𝘢𝘱𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

Catalonia: Barcelona & Beyond

7-day itinerary in Catalonia through Barcelona, Priorat, Siurana, Ebro Delta, Girona, and Cadaqués.

A rhythm of sand, salt, and sky unfolds across three elemental days in the Atacama Desert. This journey takes you from grounded, hands-on moments to vast desert panoramas — from the intimacy of a ceramics workshop to the stillness of floating lagoons and the dazzling clarity of the high-altitude night. Designed for travelers drawn to light, texture, and time, it pairs immersive photography with meditative moments of pause. You’ll begin slowly, then ascend into the surreal landscapes of the altiplano before closing among geysers, wetlands, and warm springs.
DAY 1 – CLAY, FLOATING, AND STARS | The journey begins gently in the Salt Mountain Range, where you’ll be welcomed into the adobe studio of a local ceramic artist. Using a clay unique to the region, shaped by ancestral Licarantai traditions, you’ll create your own piece while learning how reverence for Pachamama lives on through craft. In the afternoon, take time on your own to visit nearby Laguna Cejar — a salt-rich lagoon where the water suspends you weightlessly in its mineral grip.
DAY 2 – FLAMINGOS AND THE ALTIPLANO | Wake early to head deep into the Chilean altiplano. This is a day of altitude and scale, where pastel lagoons stretch beneath volcanoes and flamingos lift off from mirror-still water. As you travel across remote salt flats and highland valleys, your guide helps shape the light into story through photography. There’s time to pause, to breathe thinner air, to notice shadow and color shift by the hour. After returning to town, the evening invites rest and reflection after a day spent far above sea level.
DAY 3 – GEYSERS AND WATERS | Before sunrise, set out north toward El Tatio, where steam rises from the earth in silence. As the first light filters across the geysers, capture the raw power of fire meeting water at 4,000 meters. Descend slowly through villages and wetlands, where llamas and flamingos move between grasses and mineral pools. The day ends in thermal springs tucked inside a desert canyon. Let your body ease back into warmth as your time in the Atacama comes to a close.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAN PEDRO DE ATACAMA | Most travelers base themselves in San Pedro, a walkable adobe town that serves as the region’s gateway. For easy access to experiences, stay near the center where pickups and drop-offs are seamless. If you prefer quiet evenings, choose a boutique lodge just outside the plaza. Accommodations range from rustic guesthouses to high-end eco-hotels, many designed with local materials and open-air courtyards perfect for desert stargazing.
GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO ARRIVE | The desert rewards those who arrive slowly. Because much of this journey takes place at altitude, we recommend arriving in San Pedro at least one or two days before your first experience. This extra time helps you adjust to the dry air, shifting light, and elevation changes that define the Atacama. It also offers space to settle into the desert’s rhythm — walk the quiet streets, explore the artisan market, and watch the color drain from the sky in the evenings. Let the landscape meet you gradually.
PLAN YOUR TRIP | At Fernwayer, we believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration. You can book experiences directly from the itinerary and arrange your own hotels and restaurants. Download the Fernwayer iOS app to edit your trip and make it your own.

Sand, Salt & Stars in Atacama

3 days in the Atacama Desert exploring clay, salt flats, flamingos, stars, geysers, and springs.

Hub Cities: Venice, Bologna, Milan

Duration: 10 days — 3 days in Venice, 2 days in Bologna (via Ravenna), 5 days in Milan (via Parma)

Trip Highlights:

Venice: Begin your adventure with a blend of history, culture, and culinary experiences. Explore the light and shadows of Venice, visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia, enjoy a gondola ride after dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, and discover the charm of the Dorsoduro district.

Bologna (via Ravenna): Stop to admire the stunning Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna, then delve into Bologna’s rich culture with visits to churches, museums, and markets, enjoying traditional Bolognese cuisine along the way.

Milan (via Parma): Indulge in a Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese tasting tour in Parma before arriving in Milan. Explore the city’s architectural gems, iconic districts, and luxury shopping while experiencing local craftsmanship and gastronomy. End with a full day at Lake Como, taking in the stunning villas and landscapes.

Trip Notes: Travel by train between cities for an easy and scenic journey.

𝘈𝘵 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘸𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘯 𝘶𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧-𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘋𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘭𝘰𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘖𝘚 𝘢𝘱𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯.

La Serenissima to Modern Milan

10-day itinerary in Italy through Venice, Bologna, Milan, a mix of culture, cuisine, scenic beauty.

This is a stunning itinerary — a true slow-burn, full of history, nature, food, and texture. 

Sicily stretches between earth and sky—an island of contrast and continuity, where every hill, breeze, and coastline carries the weight of story. This seven-day itinerary moves with intention across that spectrum, from mountain to monastery, vineyard to volcano, cathedral to coast. It begins in Palermo, where gold mosaics shimmer inside Monreale Cathedral and narrow streets echo with centuries of layered life.

From there, the journey leads west to Erice, where mist clings to medieval towers, then down to the Zingaro Reserve—where cliffs and coves open up to the sea. In Marsala, you’ll encounter a different kind of landscape: windmills, salt flats, and the crisp, mineral pull of local wine. These aren’t stops—they're textures in a deeper conversation with place.

Midweek, you shift eastward, through Agrigento’s ancient Greek temples and the baroque turns of Ragusa and Modica. A cooking class in the countryside offers something slower: olive oil, family knowledge, and time shared under trees. Siracusa invites further stillness, with Ortigia’s quiet beauty and Marzamemi’s soft, seaside rhythm.

The final stretch leads upward—to Mount Etna, where Sicily’s volcanic heart breathes in silence and smoke. From there, a descent into Taormina for one last night: open-air theater, coastal views, and a closing meal with the city lit behind you.

𝐴𝘵 𝘍𝑒𝘳𝑛𝘸𝑎𝘺𝑒𝘳, 𝑒𝘢𝑐𝘩 𝘥𝑎𝘺 𝘪𝑠 𝑎𝘯𝑐𝘩𝑜𝘳𝑒𝘥 𝘪𝑛 𝑎 𝑔𝘶𝑖𝘥𝑒𝘥 𝘦𝑥𝘱𝑒𝘳𝑖𝘦𝑛𝘤𝑒, 𝘸𝑖𝘵ℎ 𝑠𝘱𝑎𝘤𝑒 𝑓𝘰𝑟 𝑠𝘦𝑙𝘧-𝘭𝑒𝘥 𝘦𝑥𝘱𝑙𝘰𝑟𝘢𝑡𝘪𝑜𝘯. 𝑌𝘰𝑢 𝑐𝘢𝑛 𝑏𝘰𝑜𝘬 𝘦𝑥𝘱𝑒𝘳𝑖𝘦𝑛𝘤𝑒𝘴 𝘥𝑖𝘳𝑒𝘤𝑡𝘭𝑦 𝑓𝘳𝑜𝘮 𝘵ℎ𝘦 𝘪𝑡𝘪𝑛𝘦𝑟𝘢𝑟𝘺 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘢𝑟𝘳𝑎𝘯𝑔𝘦 𝘺𝑜𝘶𝑟 𝑜𝘸𝑛 ℎ𝘰𝑡𝘦𝑙𝘴 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘳𝑒𝘴𝑡𝘢𝑢𝘳𝑎𝘯𝑡𝘴. 𝐷𝘰𝑤𝘯𝑙𝘰𝑎𝘥 𝘵ℎ𝘦 𝘍𝑒𝘳𝑛𝘸𝑎𝘺𝑒𝘳 𝘪𝑂𝘚 𝘢𝑝𝘱 𝘵𝑜 𝑒𝘥𝑖𝘵 𝘺𝑜𝘶𝑟 𝑡𝘳𝑖𝘱 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘮𝑎𝘬𝑒 𝑖𝘵 𝘺𝑜𝘶𝑟 𝑜𝘸𝑛.

Sicily, Between Earth and Sky

7-day itinerary in Sicily with hilltop towns, salt wind, temple ruins, vineyard lunch, volcano views

For centuries, the Ponte Vecchio has captivated visitors with its unique array of jewelry shops. Meanwhile, Piazza della Signoria has remained the political heart of Florence, hosting significant events and showcasing monumental art and architecture. Things to look for:
1 - Ponte Vecchio's Timeless Appeal: This medieval stone bridge has spanned Florence's Arno River for almost 700 years. Its three shallow arches support a row of shops, creating a stunning reflection over the waters. The bridge has withstood floods, wars, and the passage of time, serving as a merchant's stage and a site of historical events, including the tragic murder of Buondelmonte de’ Buondelmonti in 1216, which fueled the feud between the Guelphs and Ghibellines​​. Today, the Ponte Vecchio is renowned for its fine jewelry stores and other offerings.

2 - Transformation Through Time: Initially, the Ponte Vecchio housed various trades, but by 1422, the Guild of Butchers monopolized the shops, turning the bridge into a market for meat, leather, and fish. This setup continued until the Medici era when Cosimo I de Medici, seeking to elevate the bridge's status, replaced the butchers with gold merchants, a tradition that endures to this day​​.

3 - A Political and Cultural Hub: Since the 14th century, Piazza della Signoria has been the focal point of Florentine political and social life. It houses the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, Neptune Fountain, and Loggia dei Lanzi, among other significant landmarks. 

4 - Symbolism and Artistry: Piazza della Signoria features several iconic sculptures, including a copy of Michelangelo's David, marking its original location. The Neptune Fountain, built to celebrate a Medici wedding, represents the family's ascent to power. The Loggia dei Lanzi, a fine example of Florentine Gothic architecture, displays notable sculptures like Benvenuto Cellini's "Perseus" and served as a stage for official ceremonies during the Republic era​​​​​​​​​​​​.

Photo by Daniel Seßler

Ponte Vecchio, P.ZZA Signoria

Love Valley, one of Cappadocia’s most iconic landscapes, invites visitors to marvel at its otherworldly rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion. Known for its serene trails and photogenic vistas, the valley offers a peaceful retreat into nature and a unique window into the region’s geological history.

1. Unique Rock Formations: Discover the valley’s famously towering and uniquely shaped rock spires, affectionately nicknamed for their suggestive silhouettes. These formations, created by natural forces, have become a defining symbol of Cappadocia’s beauty.
2. Hiking Trails: Meander through well-marked trails that wind between the formations, offering panoramic views and a tranquil escape. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, there’s a route for everyone.
3. Photo Opportunities: Capture striking images of this surreal landscape, particularly during golden hour when the light enhances the valley’s natural colors and contours.

Visitor Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Don’t forget to bring water and sturdy shoes for a comfortable journey.

Love Valley Hike

Towering over the Bay of Naples, Mount Vesuvius is one of the world’s most famous volcanoes, best known for its catastrophic eruption in 79 AD that buried Pompeii and Herculaneum. Today, hiking to the crater offers a thrilling opportunity to stand on the edge of an active volcano, with breathtaking panoramic views of Naples, the coastline, and the volcanic landscape. Whether you're fascinated by geology or simply seeking an unforgettable hike, Vesuvius is a must-visit.

1. A well-marked trail to the summit winds through volcanic terrain, offering stunning views of Naples and the Bay of Naples as you ascend. The hike is moderately challenging but accessible to most visitors.

2. A crater viewpoint at the top provides a close-up look at the steaming vents and rugged edges of the volcano, a powerful reminder of its explosive history.

3. A 360-degree panorama from the rim stretches across the islands of Capri and Ischia, the Bay of Naples, and the surrounding countryside, making the climb well worth the effort.

4. A visitor kiosk near the summit offers geological insights into Vesuvius’ past eruptions, helping visitors understand the power of this still-active volcano.

5. A combined visit to Pompeii or Herculaneum enhances the experience, allowing visitors to connect the volcano’s history with the ancient cities it once destroyed.

Tips for Visiting
The best time to visit is spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Wearing sturdy shoes is essential, as the trail is rocky and dusty. Bringing water, sunscreen, and a light jacket is recommended, as it can be windy and cooler at the summit. Arriving early in the morning helps avoid the midday heat and peak crowds.

Photo: Julia Lourido

Mount Vesuvius Crater Hike

Canada

Someone described #Churchill as “the warmest coldest tundra town”. It is a friendly, curious town. It also claims to have 300 days of northern lights. 

Basically, if you happen to be in Churchill on a clear night, prepare to wake up, dress up in layers (quickly), and be enthralled. 

Last Sunday night, when most had turned back in after what looked like an “average” aurora display, we waited and were rewarded with lovely green ribbons and curtains.

Dancing Dragons Across The Sky

In Marrakech, explore the labyrinth of the medina, lined with market stalls and craftspeople, and full of secret places and contradictions. 

Anonymous, windowless, fortress-like walls enclose luxurious riads built around tiled courtyards, complete with fountains and gardens.

Happily, my wonderful guide Khadija of Morocco Private Experience, encourages my curiosity. She leads the way across the medieval labyrinth of chaotic alleyways - to the souks where centuries-old skills continue to flourish. 

I am intrigued about how all the craftspeople are clustered together by trade. We watch a metal craftsman shape a pair of gnawa cymbals. A leatherworker allows me inside his workshop for a better view. There is an entire street of ornate lantern sellers - the bronze-latticed lanterns competing with the palm-leafed roofs of the souks in throwing light-and-shadow patterns all around.

Heart and Souk

Step into a unique blend of industrial history and artistic elegance at Centrale Montemartini, a museum that breathes new life into the remnants of a former power plant. This unconventional cultural space, located on the outskirts of Rome, offers a captivating journey through time and technology, including:
1 -Industrial Transformation: Centrale Montemartini represents a remarkable transformation of an early 20th-century thermoelectric power plant into an innovative museum space. The merging of industrial machinery against classical sculptures creates a visually striking and thought-provoking setting.
2 -Ancient Statues in a Modern Context: Explore the museum's collection, where classical sculptures and ancient artifacts find a surprising home amidst the massive turbines and machinery of the power plant. The merging of ancient art against the backdrop of industrial architecture adds a layer of intrigue to each exhibit.
3 -Dynamic Exhibition Spaces: Wander through the expansive halls, where colossal engines and generators share space with delicate statues and precious artifacts. The museum's layout preserves the integrity of the industrial architecture while seamlessly integrating the classical art collection, providing a unique and dynamic exhibition experience.
4 -Museum Highlights: Discover the diverse range of exhibits, including Roman statues, mosaics, and other archaeological treasures. Stand in awe of the colossal machinery that once powered the city, now standing as silent witnesses to Rome's industrial past. The interplay between art and industry speaks to the evolution of technology and its impact on culture.


Entrance tickets for Centrale Montemartini can be purchased on-site or online at centralemontemartini.org/, offering access to both the permanent and temporary exhibitions. 

Photo by Centrale Montemartini

Rome’s Power Plant to Museum

Castel Sant'Angelo, standing on the banks of the Tiber River, near the Vatican, is a fortress of history and art. Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum in 123 AD, it has transformed through the ages, serving as a fortress, papal residence, and prison. Today, it is a museum that captures Rome's layered history. Top 4 reasons to visit:
 
1 - Historical Evolution: Castel Sant'Angelo's journey from a mausoleum to a fortress encapsulates Rome's tumultuous history. The massive cylindrical structure, initially covered in white marble, now showcases Roman and medieval architectural styles. 

2 - Papal Residences: During the Renaissance, the castle underwent significant renovations. The Papal residences, including the Sala Paolina decorated by Pietro da Cortona, exemplify Baroque artistry. The fortress also served as a haven for popes, with the Passetto di Borgo serving as an escape route during sieges.

3 - Museum Treasures: As a museum, Castel Sant'Angelo houses an impressive collection of art, artifacts, and historical relics. The art collection includes works donated by private collectors and pieces from the Renaissance period. The Papal Apartments, furnished with authentic historical pieces, offer a glimpse into the life of Renaissance popes.


4 - Archangel Michael and Passetto di Borgo: The roof of the castle features the iconic statue of Archangel Michael, symbolizing the castle's renaming following a divine vision. The Passetto di Borgo, an elevated corridor linking the castle to the Vatican, is a testament to the Papacy's resilience and strategic importance.

Tickets for Castel Sant'Angelo can be purchased online or on-site at castelsantangelo.com/.

Photo by Vinitaa Jayson

Castel Sant'Angelo

Greece

Vlychada Beach on Santorini is a unique and serene destination, known for its dramatic lunar-like landscape and tranquil atmosphere. Located on the southern coast of the island, this beach is framed by towering white volcanic cliffs carved by the wind and sea, creating an otherworldly backdrop. Its soft gray sand and clear waters make it an ideal spot for relaxation, far from the bustling crowds of Santorini’s more famous beaches. 
1. The beach’s volcanic cliffs, sculpted into surreal shapes, are its defining feature, making it one of the most photogenic locations on the island. 
2. The soft gray volcanic sand and pebbles contrast beautifully with the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, offering a peaceful and natural setting for sunbathing. 
3. Calm and uncrowded, Vlychada Beach is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil experience compared to other Santorini beaches. 
4. A nearby marina with traditional fishing boats adds to the charm of the area and offers a glimpse into the island’s maritime culture. 
5. The beach is located close to the Santorini Arts Factory, a cultural hub with exhibitions and events celebrating local creativity and history. 
Visitor Tip: Plan to spend 2–3 hours at Vlychada Beach. Bring your own beach essentials, as amenities are limited, and consider staying for the sunset, which paints the cliffs in golden hues. 
Photo: Shutterstock

Vlychada Beach

Iceland

On a snowy winter evening, we stand on a ridge and see the brightly-lit church through the mist ... an evocative but calming place. 

Very different from 1000 years ago as Vikings stood here and declared the laws of the land ... the oldest continuous two weeks in the summer parliament. People heard from their leaders, settled disputes and traded.

The best part of the Golden Circle circuit, Thingvellir National Park has hiking trails, waterfalls, summer cottages for the affluent (singer Björk has a home) and the Silfra fissure divers can explore between the American and Euroasian tectonic plates.

The sky is changing color. We should leave, we tell each other ... but we are drawn to the scenery like a moth to the flame.

Northern Mists

Valencia, Spain, is home to Gulliver Park (Parque Gulliver), a one-of-a-kind playground where visitors of all ages can experience the world as a Lilliputian. Inspired by Gulliver’s Travels, the park features a massive 70-meter-long sculpture of Gulliver, sprawled across the ground as if captured by tiny Lilliputians. With giant slides, tunnels, ramps, and climbing areas integrated into the structure, this whimsical attraction offers endless fun for families, kids, and anyone young at heart.

1. The giant Gulliver sculpture, complete with slides and climbing areas, allows visitors to explore the character’s arms, legs, and even his coat as if they were tiny Lilliputians.

2. Endless slides of varying sizes offer fun for kids and adults alike, making it a perfect place for families to play together.

3. The park’s soft rubber flooring ensures safety, so children can run, jump, and slide with ease.

4. Located within the Turia Gardens, the park is surrounded by beautiful green spaces, ideal for a picnic or a leisurely stroll after playtime.

5. The imaginative design and playful atmosphere make Gulliver Park a fantastic spot for unique and creative photography.

Visitor Tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, and bring comfortable clothes for sliding and climbing! Admission is free, making it a budget-friendly family activity.

Photos: Myles Tan

Gulliver Park

Tanzania

We spend nearly four amazing hours in the Sand River Circuit in the midst of a spectacular head of grunting wildebeest. Led by “collective intelligence”, these animals complete a 1000 mile loop over the course of a year, and most survive for several seasons of this tough journey! 

When we arrive in the Grumeti Reserves, further south, we find the last few hundred thousand or so wildebeest. Here they are extremely purposeful and move in a single-file. Perhaps they have realized that they are late and will miss out on all the new green grass in the northern plains. They kick up a storm of dust as they move forward with determination - though it is not unusual to see the whole herd running swiftly back if something ahead spooks them. 

It is here that we see the consequences of the ‘battle’ - injured animals or those too weary to complete the journey. This is sad to watch as they will soon become easy prey to the predators. 

Such is the ⭕️ of life.

One Million Wildebeest

Vilamoura, set in the beautiful Algarve region of Portugal, is a premier resort town known for its stunning beaches, world-class marina, and exceptional golf courses. Here are the top highlights:

1. Pristine Beaches: Vilamoura boasts some of the Algarve's most beautiful beaches, such as Praia da Marina and Praia da Falésia. These sandy stretches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a variety of water sports, with their golden sands and clear blue waters creating a picturesque seaside setting.

2. Luxurious Marina: The heart of Vilamoura is its large and sophisticated marina. Lined with luxury yachts, the marina is surrounded by a range of chic restaurants, bars, and shops. It's a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, dine al fresco, or simply watch the sunset over the water.

3. World-Class Golf Courses: Vilamoura is a golfer's paradise, home to several top-rated golf courses. These courses are renowned for their challenging layouts and stunning views of the Atlantic. The pleasant climate of the Algarve makes Vilamoura an ideal golf destination year-round.

4. Cultural Attractions: Beyond its beaches and leisure facilities, Vilamoura has a rich cultural side. Visitors can explore Roman ruins and a museum showcasing the area's historical significance, offering a glimpse into the region's past civilizations.

5. Outdoor Activities: The natural beauty of Vilamoura and its surroundings invites a host of outdoor activities. Besides golfing and water sports, the area is great for biking, hiking, and bird watching, especially in the nearby wetlands and nature reserves.

Vilamoura is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm. The summer months are perfect for beach lovers, while spring and autumn are ideal for golfing and exploring the outdoors. Vilamoura provides a perfect escape for those seeking a blend of relaxation and sophistication by the Atlantic.

Photo by Ethan Bucher

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