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Morocco

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.

A six-hour medium-difficulty guided private trek through the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Starting at 1740 m (5708 ft) in Imlil, the gateway to Mount Toubkal, you'll cross the passes of Tametert and Aguerssioual, each offering elevations above 2200 m (7219 ft) and breathtaking panoramas of North Africa's highest peak. 

This experience invites you to traverse mule tracks and pass through the timeless Berber villages of Tinerhourhine, Ikiss, and Amskere. Along the way, you'll encounter local lifestyles, Berber culture, and the natural beauty that has defined this region for centuries. You’ll get an authentic insight into the lives of the Berber people and share a traditional meal with a local family or a freshly prepared picnic lunch. 

This experience is of medium difficulty and may, therefore, be unsuitable for young children. We strongly recommend hiring a mule that children can ride if tired. See “What to Bring” for details.

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.

This is the definitive multi-dimensional trek through the High Atlas Mountains, where the enduring spirit of Berber culture thrives amidst spectacular mountain scenery. This trek navigates through the mountain passes, offering moderate challenges with a medium difficulty level. It extends an invitation to deeply engage with the Berber communities, far removed from typical tourist tracks.

Experience the authentic daily life of the Berbers through interactive cultural exchanges that surpass mere observation. Picnic or dine in a Berber home, savoring dishes that reflect the region's rich culinary heritage and agricultural prowess. This trek is meticulously designed to be immersive, providing a balanced blend of physical activity and cultural education. The memories and insights gained from this trek will resonate with you long after you return, fostering a deep appreciation for a way of life that has sustained these communities through the centuries.


Hiking Trek past Berber villages and mountain passes of Atlas Mountains from Imlil near Marrakesh.

From Imlil to Berber Villages (Tinerhourhine, Ikiss, and Amskere) + Traditional Berber lunch

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

The Quintessential High Atlas

Private guided trek through the High Atlas Mountains via Tametert and Aguerssioual passes.

Visits to Berber villages including Tinerhourhine, Ikiss & Amskere.

Freshly prepared lunch in a Berber family home or picnic lunch.

Bottled water.

All tips & gratuities for guides/local partners.

Pick-up from nearby Imlil hotels

**Note: Moderate difficulty. May be unsuitable for young children. Strongly recommend you hire a mule for them to ride (additional cost, ask Ahmed to arrange after booking).

Dress for mountain conditions: sturdy boots, waterproof jacket, warm layers, gloves, sun protection (hat, cream), fleece/anorak for winter

Refillable water bottle and day pack for essentials.

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 meeting point in Imlil will be confirmed by Ahmed after the booking). Pickups will be included only from nearby Imlil hotels. 

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.

Portugal

Set out on a full-day journey into the heart of the Douro Valley, where every moment invites you to slow down and connect with the land. Your adventure begins aboard a vintage, 100% electric VW 'Kombi', meandering through scenic vineyard roads towards a prestigious wine estate. There, you'll explore the cellars, stroll through the vines, and enjoy an intimate tasting guided by those who know the land best.

You’ll then visit a small, family-run winery where you’ll sit down to a relaxed regional lunch, perfectly paired with Douro wines. The journey continues at a local olive oil producer for an exclusive tasting of this liquid gold. 

As the sun begins to set, you’ll wind through scenic backroads to two stunning viewpoints offering sweeping panoramas of the valley. The day ends on the water with a private Rabelo boat ride—complete with a tasting of Moscatel wine—as you drift along the Douro, taking in its iconic terrace hillsides.

This is a rare chance to experience the Douro Valley through the eyes of two long-time locals familiar with the region’s natural wonders and wine heritage. Carlos and Paulo move intentionally off the typical tourist path, guiding you in their fully electric vintage Kombi along quiet backroads. 

You’ll tour wine estates of different sizes, meet the producers, and walk the vineyards—gaining insight into the people and traditions behind each bottle. At a small family-run estate, enjoy a relaxed lunch where regional dishes are paired with their own wines, in an atmosphere that feels more like a family gathering than a tasting.

You’ll also visit a local olive oil producer to sample oils known for their bold, peppery character. Along the way, there will be plenty of stops to take in the views, including from the river itself aboard a private Rabelo boat, the traditional vessel once used to transport Port barrels to Vila Nova de Gaia.

At a small, independent winery, you’ll meet the producer, explore the grounds, and sit down for a regional lunch with wine pairing.

The meal is served in a warm, family setting, offering a real taste of Douro hospitality, where the wines come with stories and the food is made with local care.

Enjoy a relaxed farm-style lunch paired with estate wines.

Small Producer Visit and Lunch

Step aboard a traditional Rabelo boat, once used to transport wine barrels, for a peaceful cruise along the river.

Unlike the standard group tours, this private ride is quiet, immersive, and includes a tasting of local Moscatel wine as you take in the scenery. A perfect way to close a day in the Douro. 

Drift down the Douro on a private Rabelo boat with a Moscatel tasting.

Private Rabelo Boat Ride

Your experience starts with Carlos and Paulo picking you up in their fully electric VW ‘pão de forma’ in the Douro region.

The eco‑friendly vehicle offers a nostalgic, sustainable ride on winding vineyard roads known only to insiders.

Begin your Douro journey in a vintage electric Kombi with your local hosts.

Pick‑Up 

This Experience accommodates a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 6 participants to make base costs and logistics work. Included are: Hotel/train‑station pick‑up and drop‑off in Douro Region in a 100 % electric VW Kombi, private scenic river cruise aboard solar or Rabelo boat, visit to a prestigious Douro estate with private tour and tastings, gourmet lunch with regional dishes and wine pairing, visit to a viewpoint, guided artisanal tasting of locally produced olive oil and wines.

Visit a renowned wine estate where you’ll tour the vineyards, walk through stone cellars, and sample wines directly from the source.

Hosted by winemakers with generational ties to the land, this intimate experience offers deeper insights into the heritage and craft of Douro wine.

 Explore a prestigious estate and taste wines steeped in Douro tradition.

Visit & Tasting with Winemaker

Visit two handpicked panoramic viewpoints offering a cinematic perspective of the valley’s layered vineyards and winding river.

These off-the-beaten-path stops reflect Carlos and Paulo’s insider knowledge—quiet, unspoiled locations with postcard-worthy views.

Pause to admire sweeping views over Douro’s terraced landscape.

Viewpoint Stop

Discover the region’s lesser-known olive oil heritage with a guided tasting at a local producer’s estate.

This is a rare opportunity to taste fresh, small-batch oils while learning about native olive varieties and traditional pressing methods.

Sample regional olive oils guided by the maker.

Olive Oil Producer Visit

Your hosts will drive you back to your accommodation or train station in the Douro region.

The drop-off reflects the same thoughtfulness as the rest of the day—unhurried, scenic, and personal. 

Return to your hotel or the train station through the valley’s golden afternoon light.

Drop-Off

Day Trip in Douro Valley: Ride electric vintage van, taste wines & olive oil, cruise by Rabelo boat.

A Kombi, A Rabelo & The Douro

Pick-up and drop-off in the Douro region aboard a 100% electric vintage VW Kombi.

Private scenic cruise on the Douro River aboard a traditional Rabelo boat.

Visit to a prestigious Douro wine estate with guided tour and tasting.

Visit to a small, family-run winery with regional lunch and wine pairing.

Guided artisanal tasting at a local olive oil producer.

Stops at two panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Douro Valley.

Tasting of Moscatel wine during

Light, comfortable clothing, a hat for sun protection, and sunscreen to ensure you enjoy the experience safely and comfortably.

Carlos and Paulo can pick you up at your hotel in the Douro or Pinhão's train station. After booking, chat with them to arrange a meeting point.

Carlos de Oliveira and Paulo Baptista have deep roots in the Douro Valley and Alvão Natural Park. As locals, they know the hidden roads, family-run estates, and stories that don’t appear on maps. Their mission is to reveal the authentic side of the Douro—beyond the usual tourist paths—through experiences that are personal, soulful, and grounded in place. With a passion for both tradition and sustainability, they blend cultural insight with refined hospitality, guiding you in their 100% electric vintage Kombi through moments that reflect the true spirit of the region. From meaningful encounters with producers to quiet scenic corners known only to locals, Carlos and Paulo craft each journey with care and intention. Their storytelling, local knowledge, and respect for Douro’s heritage make them the ideal hosts for anyone seeking a deeper, more genuine connection to this remarkable landscape.

Italy

This is a sensory immersion in the heart of Cuglieri, an authentic Sardinian village rich in traditions and natural beauty. You will walk for about an hour through its narrow paved streets, breathing the scent of wild herbs while discovering hidden corners and breathtaking views from the Basilica of Santa Maria della Neve, the highest point of the town. Accompanied by Eva, you will learn to observe and collect the wild plants that grow spontaneously among the ancient stones and the surrounding fields, coming into direct contact with Sardinian nature and the history of the place.

After the botanic walk, you will experiment with cyanotype, an ancient sun-print technique to transform the collected herbs and flowers into a unique work of art, exploring a new connection between you and the soul of the place. The workshop is guided step by step by Eva, and you can bring your work home. After the creative experience, a taste adventure awaits you: the local panadas and a glass of wine.

You'll reconnect with nature and yourself by exploring the Sardinian landscape surrounding a traditional village and experimenting with your creativity through an ancient, sustainable artistic technique powered by the sun. The cyanotype technique, dating back to the 19th century, allows you to print on paper or fabric using sunlight and natural chemicals. An intense Prussian Blue emerges as the image gradually appears under the sun’s rays.

Botanical cyanotype does not require technical skills but unleashes your creativity through an intuitive interaction with Sardinian nature. All materials used are sourced from the surrounding landscape, collected during a walk through the stone-paved village and its nearby fields.

You will experience a profound connection with local nature, guided by a passionate plant enthusiast. The artistic process itself is contemplative, inviting you to handle natural materials with care while patiently waiting for the sun to imprint its magic on the canvas.

Walking Tour and Cyanotype Workshop in Cuglieri, Sardinia, rich in tradition and sensory beauty.

The Botanist of Cuglieri

This experience is designed for a minimum of 2 and maximum of 6 people. Included are: Eva's expert guidance during the botanical walk, the creative workshop and the necessary materials, a booklet that illustrates the cyanotype process, a tasting of local specialties (Sa Panada and a glass of wine). 

At the Atelier Ora Blu Lab Via Vescovo Cossu 3, CUGLIERI
Cuglieri is about a 20-minute drive from Bosa.

Eva is the co-founder of Ora Blu Lab, dedicated to connecting people with Sardinia's beauty through creative and immersive experiences. Originally from Paris, Eva holds a degree in Art History and has a background as an educator passionate about travel, art, and nature. With experience in tourism, arts, and education, she was captivated by Sardinia's rich culture and stunning landscapes, eventually making it her home in 2011. Today, Eva designs workshops that awaken the senses and emotions, fostering a deep connection with nature while offering warm, genuine hospitality.

Mexico

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of five of Guadalajara’s oldest churches, each built in the 16th century and still standing as active places of worship, on this private tour. 

From the grand cathedral in Guadalajara to lesser-known chapels tucked into quiet corners of the historic center. Revealing how religion, architecture, and politics shaped the city, this experience is a must do in Guadalajara. Wander through centuries-old cathedrals, admire intricate colonial-era details, and uncover the fascinating stories behind each sacred landmark. 

You’ll see how indigenous and European styles merged in stone, wood, and ornament, and how the Church’s influence extended far beyond the altar. 

You’ll pause for a coffee or soft drink and a snack typical to the region, chosen by your host for both flavor and cultural relevance. The tour closes in the Analco district with a scoop of artisan ice cream from a long-standing local vendor.

This is a vivid look at the foundations—spiritual and architectural—of Guadalajara history. Your guide, a historian, uses old photographs, architectural detail, and storytelling to bring each space into focus. These five churches are physical records of Spanish colonization, Catholic expansion, and indigenous adaptation. Their walls hold artistic and material histories that predate the city's civic center. Each stop shows how architecture reflects belief, authority, and ritual in post-conquest Mexico.

These churches are windows into another time. Walking among them, you feel the weight of history underfoot. You'll uncover how the Catholic Church shaped Mexico’s political landscape, how indigenous and European styles blended to create the city's architectural heritage, and how details—mudéjar ceilings, worn stone steps, frescoes, wood altars—evolved across centuries.

Designed for travelers drawn to history, religious art, and the layered life of cities, this is a context-rich tour.

Walking Tour of Guadalajara’s 16th-century churches with history, architecture, colonial faith. 

Stories of Tapatío Devotion

Guided tour of Guadalajara’s five oldest churches with a certified expert.

Architectural and historical context linking religion, politics, and design.

Mostly a walking tour, with transportation provided for longer distances.

Soft drink and regional snack chosen by your host for flavor and cultural relevance.

Artisan ice cream from a traditional local vendor in Analco.

Comfortable clothes for strolling in the sun.
Shoes for walking.

Anwar will pick you up from your accommodation/hotel in Guadalajara. Chat with him after the booking to share hotel details and finalize the meeting point. 

Anwar is a certified tour guide with over five years of experience sharing Mexico’s history and culture with travelers from around the world. Born in Mexico and trained at the University of Guadalajara, he brings depth and clarity to every tour—whether exploring ancient ruins, colonial streets, or cultural landmarks. Fluent in English, Anwar offers more than just facts: his storytelling, local knowledge, and eye for hidden details give travelers a perspective that guidebooks miss.

In a town best known for its embroidery, one family quietly shapes a different legacy—through pit-fired clay. This intimate experience invites you inside the home workshop of a renowned family of artisans in the Central Valleys of Oaxaca. Their work is whimsical, tactile and deeply personal—guided by tradition, memory and resilience.

You'll witness how the creations are meticulously crafted using traditional techniques and unique vision. The pieces, celebrated for their intricate details and cultural significance, have garnered international acclaim, and are featured in museums, documentaries and books.

You'll meet the artists, learn about their process, and witness how their hands bring form to feeling. The visit includes time to explore their collection and workshop, as well conversation about how creativity can be a lifeline in the face of adversity. Afterward, you'll stop at a popular roadside comedor for handmade Oaxacan dishes and agua fresca—simple, local, full of flavor.

Over 20 years ago, Maestro José lost his sight to glaucoma. What could have been an end became a beginning. Relying on touch, intuition and memory, he continued sculpting—his hands guided by a sense of form that doesn’t require vision. Today, he’s internationally recognized not only for his work, but for the spirit behind it. His ability to craft such detailed and expressive pieces without sight has earned him the moniker "manos que ven"—hands that see. 

Unlike many of Oaxaca’s 70+ pottery communities, where skills are passed down generationally, Maestro José is self-taught. He began by making animals from clay as a child. His greatest collaborator is his wife, Maestra Teresita, who adds the details to his sculpted forms. Their work is a living love story—quietly powerful and unlike anything else.

Their adult children now contribute their own custom pieces, and the family workshop also includes a tattoo studio upstairs—proof that creativity here takes many forms.

Craft Tour in Oaxaca’s Central Valleys with family pottery workshop, artisan visit, local lunch.

Guided by Hands That See 

Guided visit to the home workshop of a renowned family of clay artisans.

Insight into traditional pit-firing techniques and artistic process.

Time to explore the family’s collection and engage in conversation.

Lunch and agua fresca at a local roadside comedor.

Round-trip transportation from Oaxaca de Juárez to a Zapotec pottery town.

We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, water and your camera or phone, if you'd like to take photos. If you wish to buy pieces from the makers while in their studio, they accept credit cards, but cash pesos is always preferred. That said, there's no expectation to buy anything outside of what's included in the experience.

Pick up and drop off will be at the front of the Italian Coffee Company at Lic Manuel Ruiz 300A, Reforma, 68050, Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca, Mexico. Your host will be there waiting for you 15 minutes before the departure time to enable a prompt departure at the time stated on the booking. The transit time to and from the destination is included in the duration shown on the experience listing.

Ehren Seeland is a Oaxaca-based creative with a background in art and design and journalism, who travels the globe for professional and personal pursuits. A long-term resident of Oaxaca with family ties to the city, her passion for regional produce, traditional skills, and social impact makes her a fantastic host for the culturally curious and socially minded traveler.

Through all of her projects—including Hecho, a marketplace of artisan-made goods from natural materials—Ehren maintains an active focus on supporting Mexican ancestral traditions through handmade product development, including textiles, pottery, homewares, and other works. Her projects also place special emphasis on supporting women and indigenous communities.

Built on the site of the monastery from which it takes its name, La Merced is a legendary traditional public market in the historic center of Mexico City. This private, intimate food tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the true spirit of Mexico City—including its more chaotic side.

You’ll start in the Downtown Historic Center, where you'll meet your host before walking directly to La Merced market. There, you’ll wind through the market’s lively banquetón, or prepared food area, tasting different tacos, quesadillas, aguas frescas, and tamales.

After that, you’ll stroll through the gigantic fruits and vegetables building and learn about—and taste—prehispanic delicacies such as grasshoppers and agave worms. As the market can sometimes be a little overwhelming, your host will make sure you stop to rest. You’ll finish up with a refreshing drink and a snack in a beautiful restaurant—a hidden gem that most visitors won't know about, hand-picked by your host.

This private morning food tour is an essential experience for seasoned travelers who want to experience the real Mexico City and taste authentic Mexican flavors, from pre-Hispanic ingredients to beloved street snacks.

La Merced Market is massive—sprawling and complex—and locals would never advise a traveler to visit it alone. This experience, led by a food expert and CDMX native who knows how to navigate its lively maze, is the safest and richest way to explore it. You’ll learn about the market’s layered history, sample some of the best antojitos in town, and stay well-oriented and comfortable throughout.

Not only will you taste everything La Merced has to offer, but you’ll also hear about its past fires, its ongoing importance to daily life in Mexico City, and the neighborhood that surrounds it.

This is an immersive, sensory journey that lets you walk, eat, and learn your way through one of the city’s most vibrant and culturally essential markets—like a true local.

Food Tour in Mexico City, a one-of-a-kind experience through the colorful and chaotic Merced Market.

An Adventure in La Merced

Private guided food tour through La Merced market and surrounding area.

Tastings of tacos, quesadillas, tamales, aguas frescas, and pre-Hispanic delicacies.

Walk through the produce section with insight into local ingredients.

Sampling of traditional Mexican sweets handpicked by your host.

Snack and drink at a hidden local restaurant to close the tour.

All food, soft drinks, and vendor tips included.

Wear comfortable walking shoes (trainers or boots) and come hungry. In warmer months, we recommend bringing an extra bottle of water to stay hydrated. From June through October, an umbrella is also advised. While your host will ensure your comfort and safety throughout, please avoid bringing valuables, including cameras, and keep your phone and wallet secured in a zippered bag.

El Nuevo Café Bagdad in the city's Centro district.

This experience is led by one of Ángeles’ trusted colleagues—an expert bilingual culinary guide with formal training in hospitality and gastronomy. Part of a small, women-led team, they’re dedicated to sharing Mexico’s food culture with warmth, knowledge, and respect. Your specific guide will be confirmed with you before the day of the experience.

Greece

The experience begins with a visit to the archaeological site of Akrotiri, often called the "Pompeii of the Aegean." Preserved under volcanic ash, this extraordinary Bronze Age settlement reveals paved streets, two-storey buildings, and vibrant wall paintings that trace the life of a refined society. Walking through the excavated city with Kostas, you’ll visualize the everyday life, the architecture of homes and workshops, and the sudden eruption that changed everything.

You’ll then head to Megalochori, a village shaped by Cycladic architecture and local traditions. As you explore its winding paths and hidden courtyards, Kostas shares stories of merchants, farmers, and the ways the village has adapted over time.

The day concludes at a renowned winery surrounded by volcanic vineyards. Taste local grape varieties on a shaded terrace, with caldera views and a connection to the island’s land, history, and soil that brings the experience full circle.

This experience stands out for the depth and vibrance of Kostas’s storytelling, which transforms the visit into a vivid encounter with Akrotiri’s past. His storytelling allows you to see beyond ruins, revealing daily routines, social dynamics, and architectural brilliance of a sophisticated civilization. Kostas’s narrative bridges millennia, making the ancient settlement feel immediate and alive. It's a completely different experience than if you were to visit by yourself.

In Megalochori, Kostas introduces you to the community’s living traditions and rhythms, opening doors to stories of local residents that typical visits overlook. His connections bring you face-to-face with the authentic Santorini lifestyle.

The winery visit deepens your understanding of Santorini’s volcanic landscape, linking soil and climate to the unique character of local wines. Through engaging explanations and carefully selected food pairings, this finale connects the island’s history, geography, and culture.

Cultural Tour in Santorini with a visit to Akrotiri's ruins, Megalochori village & winery tasting.

Akrotiri, The Lost City

Guided visit to the Akrotiri Excavations with a licensed tour guide.

Comfortable transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Entrance tickets to the Akrotiri site.

Guided walk in Megalochori village.

Wine tasting at a selected winery.

Light local meal paired with the wines.

Kostas will meet you at your hotel reception or arrange a convenient pick-up point if your hotel is located in a pedestrian-only area. After booking, contact him via Chat to make arrangements.

Kostas is a licensed guide, a natural storyteller and a local expert. Based in Santorini with his family, he blends warmth, humor, and deep historical insight. With over 20 years of experience, he brings places to life through layered narratives — mixing ancient myths, fun facts, and local stories.

Whether visiting at Akrotiri or walking along a quiet village lane, Kostas connects past and present in meaningful ways. A passionate photographer, he guides guests to the island’s most beautiful spots. As a wine lover, he also shares Santorini’s proud winemaking tradition.

Türkiye

An extensive, wine tasting experience crafted for wine lovers who want to explore Turkey's rich and diverse terroirs. It is a complementary workshop to Andrea’s ‘Turkish Wine 101’ and is designed for connoisseurs looking to dive deeper into the nuances of this ancient wine region. Andrea will guide you through a curated selection of some of Turkey's finest wines, exploring the distinct regions and climates that define them. Hosted in one of Istanbul’s top wine bars on the peaceful Asian side, the tasting includes eight wines hailing from the mineral-rich soils of Cappadocia to the rolling hills of Thrace and even as far east as Turkey's borders with Iraq and Syria. As you savor each wine, paired with small bites, you’ll learn about the country’s long winemaking history, the diverse wine-growing regions, and the fascinating stories behind small family-run wineries that continue these ancient traditions today.

This experience is located in the heart of Istanbul’s popular Moda district.

What sets this experience apart is the element of discovery. Most of Turkey’s 1,450+ grape varieties are not found outside the country, this tasting will introduce you to some of our rare grapes. You’ll go beyond the basics of Narince and Öküzgözü, sampling 8 wines that showcase the incredible diversity of Turkey’s regions, from the volcanic soils of Cappadocia to the sun-soaked vineyards near the Syrian border. Hosted in Istanbul’s premier wine bar, this is the only place in the city that offers most of these wines. Led by an expert who has spent over a decade immersed in the country’s evolving wine scene, each bottle will be handpicked to push the boundaries of your palate. Paired with thoughtfully selected local cheeses, this immersive tasting goes beyond wine appreciation—it’s a sensory journey through Turkey’s evolving wine industry. Your host’s deep knowledge and enthusiasm ensure you’ll leave with a connoisseur’s grasp of Turkey’s dynamic and underexplored wine culture.

Advanced Wine Tasting in Istanbul exploring Turkey’s top regions, rare grapes, historic terroirs.

Deep Dive into Turkish Wines + 8 Tastings

Andrea’s Wine Masterclass

Tasting of 8 wines representing various Turkish terroirs, from Anatolia to the Aegean region.

Selection of local cheeses.

In-depth commentary on Turkish wine regions, terroirs, and grape varieties.

Set of 8 Turkish grape infographic magnets to take home.

Comfortable clothing suitable for an extended tasting.
A notebook or digital device to take tasting notes and capture insights.
An appetite for both wine and knowledge, as this experience dives deep into the intricacies of Turkish terroirs.

We will meet in front of the bar. This experience is located in the heart of Istanbul’s popular Moda district.

Originally from Michigan, Andrea has lived in Turkey for over a decade and is a recognized expert in Turkish wines. A casual drinker for years, her “come to wine” moment happened in Turkey where she stumbled on a rich tapestry of native grapes and was taken aback by the country’s exceptional wines. Since this revelation, she has dedicated herself to learning about and promoting Turkish wine while garnering formal wine certifications along the way. As the author of the first comprehensive book on Turkish wine, The Essential Guide to Turkish Wine, Andrea brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table. She has a knack for making the complexities of wine both accessible and enjoyable, encouraging wine lovers to explore the lesser-known yet fascinating world of Turkish wine.

Spain

The whitewashed villages of La Alpujarra near Granada sit high between the Sierra Nevada mountains, in a region once chosen by the last Nasrid Muslims as a refuge after the fall of Granada. Known for its slow rhythms, Berber-architecture, artisan traditions, rugged landscapes, La Alpujarra is one of the most culturally layered corners of Andalusia.

You’ll travel by private transport to three emblematic villages, each offering something distinct: weaving ateliers, drying houses, Moorish-era streets, panoramic viewpoints, family-run shops. There’s time to wander, take photos, meet artisans, and taste regional products.

A gentle mountain walk suitable for all fitness levels provides sweeping views of the Poqueira Valley and its stillness. Gabriela — born and raised in Andalusia — brings you to quiet terraces for morning coffee and a family restaurant for lunch.

This is a day shaped by nature, history, craftsmanship — exploring with someone who truly knows the terrain and its people.

Experiencing beautiful La Alpujarra with a local expert offers rare insight most visitors never access. Many travelers have never heard of the region, and even Spain-savvy visitors often don’t know what makes it extraordinary: how remote it is, how long its Moorish culture endured here, how its flat-roofed architecture echoes villages of the Atlas Mountains, and how traditional life has changed little over centuries.

The villages are spread out and difficult to navigate without a car, and many of the most meaningful stops rely heavily on local knowledge and personal connections. Gabriela opens doors to artisans and small producers whose work reflects the land and culture, from loom-woven textiles to honey shaped by wildflowers.

She encourages curiosity: ask, taste, observe, listen. When possible, meet local makers, discover micro-craft traditions and enjoy the quiet mountain scenery. She shares legends, personal stories and favorite corners that anchor the experience in authenticity.

Capileira is a small, picturesque village in La Alpujarra, perched 1,436 meters above sea level on the slopes of the Sierra Nevada. Its narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, wooden balconies, and striking mountain vistas give it an atmosphere that feels both traditional and timeless. Visitors come for its quiet beauty, local craftsmanship, and the chance to wander through a village that still reflects centuries of rural life.

Capileira is known for its handmade woven textiles, or jarapas, produced in small family workshops that carry on an old Alpujarran craft tradition. The village and its surroundings are also sources of local cheeses, honey, and cured meats. This area forms part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognized for its blend of cultural heritage and natural landscape. The terraced farming and Moorish irrigation channels (acequias), still in use today, offer a living connection to the region’s history.

First stop at Capileira - Alpujarra mountain village of white homes, textiles, Sierra Nevada views.

Capileira, Village of Charm

Bubión, smaller and quieter than its neighboring villages, is a peaceful midway stop with sweeping views up and down the Poqueira gorge. Its narrow cobblestone streets, flower-filled balconies, and gentle pace give it a timeless, lived-in charm.

Bubión is unique for its serene atmosphere, traditional whitewashed homes, and its dramatic location between Capileira and Pampaneira, offering an authentic glimpse into Alpujarra life. With Gabriela guiding you, the stop becomes experiential: following gentle walking paths, meeting local artisans when possible, sampling regional flavors, and pausing at terraces that reveal the valley from different angles. Rather than simply observing Bubión, you experience its rhythm — walking, tasting, and connecting with the people who call it home.

Bubión, quiet Alpujarra village with white houses, terraces, and mountain paths linking Capileira. 

Bubión, a Hidden Gem

Pampaneira is a lively, picture-perfect village in the Poqueira Valley, known for its whitewashed houses, flat slate roofs, and narrow stepped streets that reflect the area’s Berber heritage. Its artisan soul is everywhere: handwoven jarapas, ceramics, soaps, leather goods, and regional foods like honey, cheeses, and herbal teas fill small workshops and stalls.

You can wander shaded plazas, hear the water of ancient fountains—one famously tied to local love lore—and enjoy a coffee or simple regional dish on terraces overlooking the dramatic valley. With footpaths linking Pampaneira to Bubión and Capileira, it’s the place to take in the rhythm of daily life that defines the Alpujarra.

Pampaneira combines natural beauty with a strong craft tradition, making it one of the Alpujarra’s most engaging villages. Whitewashed homes cascade down the mountainside, colorful textiles brighten balconies and squares, and every turn reveals a new angle of the Poqueira Valley.

You can meet artisans in their workshops, taste homemade sweets in tiny cafés, browse local crafts, or follow scenic paths that connect the village to its neighbors. The experience becomes personal and sensory—less about sightseeing, more about discovering a place through the people who shape it and the landscape that surrounds it.

Pampaneira, a whitewashed village filled with artisan markets, cozy cafés, and bubbling fountains.

Pampaneira, the White Jewel

La Alpujarra Day Trip from Granada: whitewashed Moorish villages, artisans, and Sierra Nevada views.

White Villages of La Alpujarra

Private, full-day guided exploration of La Alpujarra, led by a local Andalusian guide with deep cultural knowledge, artisan connections, and personal introductions to village life.

Professional driver and comfortable minivan transportation.

Visits to three emblematic traditional whitewashed villages.

Easy mountain walk (around one hour) with sweeping views of the Poqueira Valley.

Coffee or drink in Capileira Village.

Snacks/tastings.

Lunch at a family restaurant in Pampaneira. 

Comfortable walking shoes
A light jacket (mountain weather can shift)
Sunscreen
A bottle of water
Cash or card for any optional purchases (no pressure to buy)

Gabriela will meet you directly at your centrally located hotel in Granada. Please note that she can only offer pick-up from hotels in the city center (not Airbnbs or private apartments). If you’re staying in an Airbnb, she will coordinate with you to meet at a convenient central meeting point. Message her via Fernwayer Chat post booking to finalize the meeting point. 

Gabriela is an Andalusian experience maker from Granada, passionate about sharing the places, stories, and landscapes that define her region. She has been welcoming visitors for years, always focusing on personal, relaxed, and genuinely connected experiences for newcomers and returning friends alike. La Alpujarra is one of her most beloved places — a stretch of mountains where time moves slower, daily life follows old rhythms, and beauty reveals itself quietly. She has spent years exploring its villages, getting to know their people, paths, and history.

Her aim is not only to show the scenery — beautiful as it is — but to help you feel the soul of the region through stories, conversation, and an unhurried way of traveling. With Gabriela, the day unfolds like exploring with a local friend who knows the way.

Your journey begins in Chioggia aboard a topa — a traditional flat-bottomed boat restored by your host, Damiano. Known as “Little Venice,” Chioggia has long lived in the shadow of its famous neighbor — but with its own traditions and tempo. As you glide down Canal Vena and under low bridges, daily life in the lagoon unfolds from a water-level view: fishermen docking, laundry hanging above the canals, neighbors chatting across boats. Damiano, who lives here, shares the rhythm of his hometown and points out the markers of its past and present.

From Chioggia, the topa crosses open water toward Pellestrina. Mussel farms stretch out across the lagoon; wooden stilt houses rise above the tide. Pellestrina sits on one of the barrier islands that protect the lagoon from the Adriatic — a working village shaped by water, with a low skyline and painted facades that glow under the sun. The return route traces slower canals with wide lagoon views. 

This private lagoon experience, offered exclusively through Fernwayer, brings you to the still-authentic villages of the Venetian Lagoon. It offers a rare view into the daily life of Chioggia and Pellestrina — two working villages still shaped by tides, boats, and long-held traditions. You’ll travel by topa, a quiet, maneuverable boat once common across the Venetian Lagoon and now mostly gone. Its shape lets you slip through narrow canals that larger boats bypass, offering close-up glimpses of places.

Damiano is from Chioggia and knows these waters intimately. He shares stories of the villages and their people from memory and lived connection. You’ll pass mussel farms, stilt houses, and painted facades, but also see how locals move through their day: ferrying goods, tending boats, talking across canal banks. It’s a perspective only possible with someone who belongs to the place. The pace is unhurried — a calm drift through places where the lagoon’s living culture is intact.

Boat Tour in the Venetian Lagoon visiting Chioggia and Pellestrina, fishing villages near Venice.

The Other Lagoon

Private boat tour through the Venetian Lagoon entirely aboard a comfortable, fully restored “topa”, a traditional Venetian lagoon boat.

Guidance from a multilingual, licensed local captain with professional knowledge of the Venetian Lagoon and shallow waters.

Life jackets on board.

Unlimited photo stops upon request.

A bottle of Prosecco served on board.

A camera, a hat, sunscreen, and a windbreaker.

Chioggia can be reached from Venice’s main island by private taxi boat in under an hour.

You’ll meet Damiano in front of Comparato Marina. 

If arriving by car, the nearest parking lot is Park Unione. Please park there and walk over to the meeting point. 

Damiano Bosetti offers a fresh, lesser-known way to experience the Venetian Lagoon, guiding guests through Chioggia and Pellestrina — towns that carry much of Venice’s feel but are decidedly less crowded and preserve the authentic life of lagoon villages still lived in by their residents rather than overrun by tourists.

His aim is to show these places from a local perspective—"Move Like a Local" is his guiding motto, reflecting his firm belief that the best way to discover the lagoon is to travel at the pace and in the manner of its residents.
Damiano prefers private, personalized outings that deliver intimate, authentic moments for his guests aboard a vintage, fully restored topa, the traditional Venetian lagoon boat.

Even with just one day, Valparaíso’s creative energy can still be felt. This journey is designed for travelers passing through with limited time who want to understand the city’s pulse through its art, stories, and street life. With guided access to working studios and street-level culture, it offers a layered portrait of Valparaíso in motion.
DAY 1 – ART STUDIOS AND STREET LIFE | Begin with a guided visit to a printmaking studio where local artists share their creative process, from tools to finished works. In this intimate setting, you’ll see how contemporary art is shaped by the city’s spirit. After a lunch break, spend the afternoon walking through Valparaíso’s hills and alleyways with a local guide. Along the way, you’ll explore murals, staircases, and markets that reveal both history and everyday rhythms. Together, these two experiences trace how creativity lives and breathes across generations.
WHERE TO STAY IN VALPARAÍSO | Cerro Alegre and Cerro Concepción offer quick access to both studio visits and afternoon walks, with a central location and walkable charm.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. 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.

Chile

One Day in Valparaíso

Fernwayer’s perfect one day in Valparaíso blends street art, studios, and a hillside guided walk.

United States

Mexico reveals its layers through art, flavor, and tradition. Over ten days, this journey follows its creative pulse through Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Guadalajara. For travelers seeking depth and connection, it blends guided encounters with artisans and storytellers with time to explore at your own pace. Each stop unveils a distinct facet of Mexico’s history and creativity.

DAY 1 – MEXICO CITY | Arrive in the morning or the previous day to settle in before your first walk through San Ángel. In the late afternoon, take a guided tour through cobblestone streets, colonial mansions, and flower-filled plazas. The calm rhythm of this neighborhood and its artistic heritage set the tone for the journey ahead.

DAY 2 – MEXICO CITY | Begin before dawn with a sunrise canoe tour through Xochimilco’s ancient canals, once part of the Aztec agricultural system. Glide through misty waterways as the city slowly wakes. Later, explore the murals and modernist architecture of UNAM on a guided photography walk, where art and academia merge in Mexico’s most iconic campus.

DAY 3 – MEXICO CITY | Spend the day on a historian-led trip to Teotihuacan. Walk the Avenue of the Dead and stand before the towering Pyramids of the Sun and Moon as stories of gods, astronomy, and empire unfold across the stones. Return to the city for an evening food tour through elegant streets lined with tacos, churros, and chocolate — a flavorful glimpse of Mexico’s culinary heritage.

DAY 4 – MEXICO CITY | Dedicate the day to exploring Chapultepec Park, from the Anthropology Museum’s ancient artifacts to sweeping views atop Chapultepec Castle. The experience connects centuries of Mexican art and history in one narrative. The evening is free before your flight south.

DAY 5 – OAXACA | Take an early flight to Oaxaca. By midday, visit a renowned printmaking studio to see how traditional etching techniques evolve in contemporary art. Watch masters at work, try the craft yourself, and feel the city’s creative pulse. Spend the afternoon in the historic center, surrounded by colorful walls and mountain light.

DAY 6 – OAXACA | Begin the morning with a guided food walk through Oaxaca’s markets and street stalls. Taste tejate, chocolate, and regional specialties while learning how Indigenous roots define local cuisine. The afternoon is free for galleries or quiet exploration before dinner.

DAY 7 – OAXACA | Travel to Teotitlán del Valle to meet a Zapotec family preserving the ancestral art of beeswax candle-making. Learn how symbolism, scent, and patience shape their craft, and share a home-cooked lunch in their workshop. In the evening, fly to Guadalajara to rest before the next day’s discoveries.

DAY 8 – GUADALAJARA | Journey west to the circular pyramids of Guachimontones on a full-day guided visit. Discover pre-Columbian traditions, obsidian craft, and views toward the Tequila Volcano. As night falls, explore Guadalajara’s historic center after dark — illuminated plazas, live mariachi, and the city’s vibrant energy.

DAY 9 – GUADALAJARA | Enjoy a slow morning before a guided walk through the creative neighborhoods of Chapu and Americana. Visit design studios, galleries, and cafés that reveal Guadalajara’s evolving artistic identity. Fly back to Mexico City later that day or the next morning.

DAY 10 – MEXICO CITY | Conclude with a mezcal tasting paired with live music and storytelling — a sensory farewell that captures Mexico’s warmth and artistry before your evening or next-day departure.

WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO | In Mexico City, stay in Condesa or Roma Norte for lively streets and cafés, or Polanco for a refined base near museums and parks. In Oaxaca, choose Centro Histórico for colonial charm or Jalatlaco for a quieter feel. In Guadalajara, stay in Americana for creative energy close to galleries and nightlife.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | Book directly from the itinerary and choose your own hotels and restaurants. Download the iOS app to make the journey your own.

Mexico with Open Eyes

10 days in Mexico through Mexico City, Oaxaca, and Guadalajara connecting heritage, art, and flavor.

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 WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. 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.

Athens is a place where ancient history and everyday life meet at every corner. From marble ruins to modern murals, the city is layered with memory, myth, and movement. This three-day itinerary invites you to experience Athens not as a checklist of monuments, but as a living conversation between past and present. Through guided encounters, sensory discoveries, and sacred pauses, each day opens a different door to the city’s many lives.

DAY 1 – HISTORY IN GRAFFITI AND STONE | Begin in Kerameikos, Gazi, and Psyrri, where the streets pulse with creativity and protest. The Urban Canvas of Athens takes you through layers of mural, message, and meaning, ending with a hands-on workshop and a piece of your own to carry home. Then head to the National Museum of Contemporary Art to explore bold works that question the narratives of history. End the day at the Acropolis, but from a different angle: walking the lesser-seen paths of the hill that shaped the Western world. As the sun sets, dine at Point A with the Parthenon glowing above.

DAY 2 – MEALS, HILLS, AND MOONLIGHT | Start your morning at the Varvakeios Market for a cooking class with a Greek local, learning to craft gyros and taste your way through spices, olives, and cheese. After lunch, wander through the hidden village of Anafiotika and climb Filopappou Hill for sweeping views of the city. Let the evening unfold with Under the Athenian Sky, an open-air cinema experience filled with conversation, food, and the quiet glow of Athens by night.

DAY 3 – RITUALS AND REVERENCE | Your final day brings you into rhythm with something older. In Ilioupoli, Cultivating Gratitude offers a guided ritual rooted in Demeter’s myth, the harvest, and the practice of reflection. Later, pause in the shade of the National Garden and witness the changing of the guards at Syntagma Square. End in Piraeus with Rebetiko, Red Lights, and the echo of old sailor songs. Between bites and melodies, you’ll feel the weight of memory, celebration, and time.

This journey is not about rushing ruins. It’s a curated immersion, shaped by texture, taste, silence, and spark. You’ll leave Athens not just with photos, but with a piece of the city imprinted on your pace, your palate, and your way of seeing. Three days in Athens. One city. Countless echoes.

WHERE TO STAY IN ATHENS | When it comes to where to stay, Athens offers neighborhoods for every travel style. Plaka is charming and close to ancient sites, while Psyrri and Exarchia are full of life, street art, and cafés. For a quieter stay with Acropolis views, Koukaki is a great base. And if you’re looking for sea breeze and space, consider Piraeus for a local feel near the coast. Choose what fits your rhythm.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. 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.

Athens in Three Acts

3 days in Athens exploring art, cuisine, the acropolis of Athens, Greek traditions, and rebetiko.

Tokyo is a city that reinvents itself in every light. Centuries of history unfold beside glowing screens and restless streets. This three-day journey moves through time and texture — from temples and textile ateliers to neon alleys and quiet shrines — revealing how the city’s rhythm shifts from reflection to motion. Guided by local storytellers, you’ll experience Tokyo through its architecture, artistry, and everyday encounters, finding a balance between discovery and moments to breathe and wander at your own pace.

DAY 1 – TOKYO THROUGH TIME | Begin your journey with a full-day guided tour tracing Tokyo’s evolution through centuries of change. From the Edo Castle grounds and ancient temples of Asakusa to the Western architecture of the Meiji era, the day reveals how each period has reshaped the city’s skyline and spirit. Along the Sumida River, the modern towers rise above preserved gardens where the rhythm of ritual endures. Between shrines and civic landmarks, you’ll see how Tokyo’s neighborhoods carry forward the legacy of power, renewal, and quiet resilience. A day that begins in stillness ends in movement, with time for a reflective walk or early evening meal near the water.

DAY 2 – FROM OLD STREETS TO MODERN DESIGN | The morning opens with a guided photo walk through one of Tokyo’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. In Disappearing Tokyo, photographer Lee Chapman leads you into alleys where Showa-era signs fade under new facades and locals pause for coffee or conversation. It’s an intimate portrait of a city in transition — fleeting, honest, and human. After a light meal and coffee break, continue into Ginza’s Architectural Icons, where journalist Toshiko Sakurai unravels the design stories behind Tokyo’s most polished district. Here, façades reflect light like art pieces and every corner reveals a conversation between history and innovation. The day bridges Tokyo’s two faces: the nostalgic and the refined.

DAY 3 – CRAFT AND CONTRAST | The final day begins quietly, inside the private home of kimono scholar Sheila Cliffe. In A Kimono Connoisseur’s Closet, you’ll step into a collection that tells Japan’s history in silk — patterns, textures, and techniques passed through generations. Surrounded by colors and fabric, the morning moves at a slower pace, connecting tradition with artistry. In the afternoon, join filmmaker Edgin Ticzon for Tokyo, Cut to Scene, a guided journey through the city’s cinematic layers. From forest shrines to the neon scramble of Shibuya, each stop plays out like a shift in light and rhythm. The day ends as the city comes alive — narrow streets glowing with paper lanterns, where conversations flow as easily as the evening breeze.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOKYO | Stay in Shibuya if you want to be at the heart of the action — a lively hub of shopping, nightlife, and energy that defines modern Tokyo. Shinjuku is ideal for travelers who value convenience, with endless dining options and quick train links across the city. For a slower rhythm, Asakusa offers a glimpse of traditional Tokyo with temples and quiet streets, while Ginza brings sophistication, elegant hotels, and polished calm after dark. For a more local balance, Kichijōji sits just outside the center, combining creative cafés, green parks, and an easygoing neighborhood feel.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. 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.

Japan

Cityscapes of Tokyo

3 days in Tokyo exploring temples, culture, neighborhoods, local food, architecture, and nightlife.

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.

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.

This 3-day Santorini itinerary invites you to experience the island slowly, through light, taste and texture. From quiet swims along the Aegean coast to hands-on Greek cooking, artisan visits, winery tours and a sunset boat trip, each day is crafted for travelers who value intention over itinerary. You’ll move between volcanic landscapes and village kitchens, caldera views and underground wine cellars, with time to pause, savor and connect. It’s a journey rooted in the senses — perfect for those drawn to authenticity, beauty and the quiet charm of the Cyclades.

DAY 1 – MONOLITHOS TO MEGALOCHORI | The first morning begins on the island’s eastern coast, where Monolithos Beach offers a quiet start beside calm waters and soft black sand. It’s a gentle stretch of coast, ideal for slowing down after arrival. By late morning, you’ll head inland to the village of Megalochori for a guided cooking class held in a cave kitchen. The afternoon unfolds in rhythm with local flavors, stories, and shared plates, all crafted by hand. As the sun fades, the caldera becomes the backdrop to a peaceful evening along the island’s edge.

DAY 2 – VLYCHADA TO THE CALDERA | Morning light casts long shadows over the sculpted cliffs of Vlychada Beach, a place known for its otherworldly rock formations and stillness. After time by the water, the late morning brings a quiet brunch with sea views before the guided experience begins. The rest of the day is a curated passage through Santorini’s villages and outlooks, led by a local expert who knows how to read the island’s moods. It all culminates on the water, with a private sunset cruise along the caldera where cliffs glow gold and the sea softens to silence.

DAY 3 – EXO GONIA TO MESARIA | The final day begins in Exo Gonia with a creative experience that blends art and landscape. You’ll visit local studios and a volcanic winery, meeting artists and winemakers whose work is rooted in the geology and stories of the island. A hands-on creative session invites you to slow down and make something of your own before the journey continues. In the late afternoon, a visit to the Santorini Wine Museum leads you underground into the history of vine-growing on this volcanic land. A quiet close to a day shaped by color and craft.

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTORINI | Fira is a convenient and dynamic base, with easy access to transport, guided experiences, and caldera views. For travelers seeking a quieter rhythm, Imerovigli offers serenity just above the sea, while Pyrgos and Exo Gonia provide a slower village atmosphere closer to the creative heart of the itinerary. Choose your stay based on how much you’d like to move — and how much you’d like to stay still.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. 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.

Santorini in Quiet Rhythm

3 days in Santorini with Aegean coast swims, Greek cooking, winery visits and a sunset boat tour.

This 14-day journey across Morocco begins in Fes and flows through the Middle Atlas Mountains, into Berber villages, along the Atlantic coast, and into the heart of Marrakesh. With curated experiences led by chefs, artists, and storytellers, the itinerary blends deep culture and daily rhythm. You’ll travel from intricate medinas to wide mountain trails, from spiritual rituals to rooftop views, experiencing Morocco as both a guest and a participant.

DAYS 1-3 FES – STORIES, SPIRIT & EXPRESSION | Begin your journey in Fes, a city of spiritual depth and living tradition. Ease in with a reflective evening of Sufi music and dinner during In the Company of Sufis. On Day 2, join Chennafi for Tradition + Modernity, a guided walk through the medina’s creative contrasts, followed by a calligraphy workshop that invites you into the Moroccan art of eloquence. Day 3 begins with time for self-guided discovery. Start your morning at Bou Inania Madrasa, a 14th-century masterpiece of Marinid-era architecture, then deepen your understanding of cultural traditions and hospitality through Cross-Cultural Exchange in Fes—a guided experience that opens conversations, connections, and new perspectives.

DAY 4 MIDDLE ATLAS TRANSFER | Today is a full day of travel into the mountains. Journey from Fes to Imlil with stops in Ifrane or Azrou. Expect a shift in pace and scenery, with cedar forests, high passes, and winding roads leading you deep into the Atlas. Settle into your stay in the valley.

DAYS 5-7 ATLAS MOUNTAINS – COOKING, TREKKING & VILLAGE LIFE | On Day 5, head to Ouirgane for What’s Cooking in the Atlas, a hands-on culinary experience with Chef Amanda, surrounded by garden air and spice. The next day, trek with a local guide through Imlil’s surrounding trails, past Berber villages and almond trees during The Quintessential High Atlas. Day 7 offers three options: a gentle village walk along The Mule Tracks of Aremd, a nature-focused hike on The Salt Route of Marigha, or a full-day climb to Toubkal Refuge for mountain lovers.

DAY 8 TRANSFER TO ESSAOUIRA – FROM PEAKS TO SEA | Drive from the Atlas Mountains to the Atlantic coast—olive groves, argan trees, and plains stretch toward the medina of Essaouira. Arrive with time to unwind.

DAYS 9-10 IN ESSAOUIRA – PHOTOGRAPHY, MUSIC & CRAFT | Start with Mirroring Essaouira’s Soul, a photo walk led by a local photographer that captures street life in black and white. In the evening, immerse yourself in An Evening of Gnawa Music—a cultural dinner performance full of rhythm and spirit. The next day, explore the creative soul of the city through Jewelry Makers of Essaouira, visiting master artisans and learning their techniques in intimate studios.

DAY 11 TRANSFER TO MARRAKESH – RETURN TO RHYTHM | A 3-hour journey brings you to Marrakesh. Arrive in time for Tasting Morocco at Amal Center, where social impact meets culinary delight.

DAYS 12-14 IN MARRAKESH – CRAFT, ART & ROOFTOPS | Begin with A Thousand and One Crafts, a private walking tour through the artisan corners of the medina. In the evening, rise for Skyline Stories of Marrakesh, a rooftop experience of storytelling and views. On Day 13, meet contemporary Marrakesh through Art Beyond Borders, then explore the YSL Museum and Jardin Majorelle. Day 14 ends with The Grand Medina Quest, a treasure-hunt experience through the city’s symbols and stories—closing your two-week journey on a note of wonder.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. 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.

A Passage Through Morocco

A Morocco 2 week itinerary from Fes to Marrakesh with culture, coast, and Atlas Mountains.

This 3-day Marrakesh itinerary is textured, elegant, and sensory—a journey through art, craft, taste, and tradition. It offers a lens into the city’s creative pulse—not just as a visitor, but through the eyes of artists, chefs, and cultural storytellers who shape its rhythm. Expect curated encounters, intimate spaces, and a balance of guided immersion and reflective stillness.

DAY 1 – ART & DESIGN LEGACIES | Begin with Conversation with an Artist, a guided visit to Comptoir des Mines Galerie and dialogue with a local artist shaping Marrakesh’s present. In the afternoon, explore the creative legacy of the Musée Yves Saint Laurent and wander the vibrant paths of Jardin Majorelle, where color, form, and botanical design meet in quiet harmony. End the day with dinner in a traditional riad—an atmospheric welcome to the city.

DAY 2 – SACRED RHYTHMS AND FLAVORS | Start early with Order of the Golden Triangle, a meditative walk through sacred geometry and spiritual symbolism in the old city. After lunch, explore the souks through the narrative lens of Heart and Souk in Marrakesh, then immerse yourself in Moroccan hospitality at Tasting Morocco, a hands-on experience at the Amal Center. As the sky turns golden, head to a rooftop above Djemaa El-Fna, where the city’s sights and sounds rise with the call to prayer.

DAY 3 – CRAFTS & CONTEMPORARY SPACES | Begin the day with A Hub of Moroccan Makers, a guided studio tour that introduces you to local artisans and their creative process, from traditional techniques to modern design. Afterward, take a quiet walk through the gardens of La Mamounia or spend time at your own pace. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at Le Jardin, a courtyard restaurant tucked in the heart of the medina.

WHERE TO STAY IN MARRAKESH | Marrakesh offers a wide range of places to stay, but for a more immersive experience, choose a traditional riad tucked inside the Medina. These restored courtyard homes combine intimacy, beauty, and local hospitality — many just steps from the city’s main sites. For more space and calm, Gueliz and Hivernage offer boutique hotels and stylish guesthouses near gardens, cafés, and galleries. Or opt for a retreat on the city’s edge, where palm groves and desert light invite pause.

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.

Marrakesh, Seen Through Art

3 days in Marrakesh exploring Moroccan art, creativity, cuisine, and timeless design.

Naples is a city of rhythm and resilience, where beauty rises from beneath the surface and daily life unfolds with theatrical ease. Over three days, this journey moves through its many layers — from ancient tunnels and hillside monasteries to ceramic studios along the Amalfi Coast. Designed for travelers who crave both insight and spontaneity, it blends guided experiences that reveal the city’s soul with time for slow lunches, scenic drives, and quiet dinners. Each moment anchors you in Naples’ living history — a place shaped as much by artistry as by endurance.

DAY 1 – HILLS AND MARKETS | Your first morning begins with Naples Between Hills & Markets, a guided walking tour with Michele Carneglia that traces the city from its upper terraces down to its beating heart. You’ll wander through monastic courtyards and artisans’ workshops, learning how faith, art, and everyday life intertwine across centuries. The path ends among lively market streets, where stories mingle with the scent of espresso and local produce. After a relaxed lunch, enjoy a slower afternoon exploring the historic center before ending with a simple dinner in a traditional osteria, surrounded by tiled walls and neighborhood chatter.

DAY 2 – UNDERGROUND AND HANDMADE | Begin the day with The Belly of Naples, Michele’s guided exploration beneath the city’s streets. Within the ancient aqueducts and passageways of San Lorenzo Maggiore, you’ll uncover layers of civilization — Roman foundations, medieval walls, and traces of faith and myth that still shape the city’s character. Afterward, head south for a leisurely lunch near the ruins of Pompeii before continuing along the coast to Vietri sul Mare. There, local artisan Elvira Peduto welcomes you for Shaping Love with Clay, a hands-on pottery workshop where you’ll mold and glaze pieces inspired by the sea. The afternoon unfolds slowly, bridging Naples’ past and its ongoing creativity.

DAY 3 – RUINS AND REFLECTION | Travel to Ercolano for The Interrupted City, a guided walk through Herculaneum’s remarkably preserved ruins. Michele brings this frozen world to life, tracing the moments of ordinary existence captured beneath volcanic ash — a baker’s oven, carved wood, painted walls. Each scene feels suspended in time, offering a rare closeness to the ancient past. The afternoon invites rest or exploration before your final evening meal overlooking the Bay of Naples, where the view opens toward Vesuvius and the sea — a fitting close to three days of discovery and renewal.

WHERE TO STAY IN NAPLES | Stay in Centro Storico for a lively, walkable base surrounded by churches, cafés, and markets, or choose Chiaia for elegant sea views and easy coastal access. Vomero offers a quieter hilltop stay with sweeping panoramas and a quick metro link to the center.

PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. 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.

Naples with a Living Past

3 days in Naples uncovering ancient tunnels, Pompeii ruins, markets, and Vietri pottery workshops.

The Douro Valley reveals itself slowly—through the rhythm of its hands, its vines, and its landscapes. Over three days, trace the threads that connect craftsmanship, heritage, and nature. Guided by artisans, winemakers, and naturalists, you’ll experience the valley’s heritage through craft, taste, and time — with space to pause, breathe, and take in its enduring beauty.
DAY 1 – CRAFT AND HERITAGE IN VILA REAL | Begin in the mountain village of Bisalhães, where black pottery has been shaped by hand and smoked for centuries. In this guided workshop, meet the last artisans still practicing this UNESCO-listed craft and learn how local clay and pine smoke create its distinctive matte finish. Later, continue to Casa de Mateus for a private visit through its baroque halls, chapel, and gardens, before sitting down to a relaxed wine lunch in the palace’s original kitchen — a warm space of stone walls, copper tools, and timeless flavors.
DAY 2 – THE BOTANICAL QUINTA | Spend the day exploring the valley’s heart with Carlos and Paulo. Begin with a silent cruise along the Douro aboard a solar-powered boat, then ride in a restored vintage Bedford van up the terraced hills to a working vineyard and botanical estate. Walk among citrus trees and vines, visit the estate’s small museum, and taste their own Port Tonic and gin made from local herbs. A picnic lunch beneath the olive trees and an afternoon tasting at a nearby olive oil and wine producer round out a day of slow rhythm and vineyard life.
DAY 3 – THE WILD NORTHEAST | Travel north to Terra de Miranda, a land of forests, stone villages, and old customs. Guided by naturalist and photographer Alexandra Melo, explore chestnut groves and mountain viewpoints near Bragança, where wildlife and rural traditions coexist. Visit local artisans and dancers who keep alive the folk rituals and wooden masks of the mirandesa culture, a heritage recognized for its uniqueness in Portugal. It’s a day of stories, photography, and quiet connection with nature before returning through the valley at sunset.
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH FERNWAYER | We believe each day of an unforgettable journey should be anchored in a guided experience, with space for self-led exploration in between. 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.

Craft and Vine in the Douro

3 days in Douro Valley exploring pottery, vineyards, and the wild landscapes of the Northeast.

Climbing Mount Whitney was one of the most personally satisfying experiences of my 30s; the challenge and the beauty of the hike were high on my list of life experiences.

Mount Whitney

Nafplio, Greece, is home to the unique Komboloi Museum, a small but fascinating museum dedicated to the history and artistry of the komboloi—Greek worry beads. Founded in 1998 by collectors Evangelinos and Rallou E. Kori, the museum showcases an impressive collection of over 1,000 komboloi made from materials like amber, coral, ivory, and glass, some dating back to the 18th century. Beyond their use as a stress-relief tool, komboloi beads carry deep cultural and spiritual significance in Greek society, making this museum a must-visit for those interested in traditional Greek heritage.

1. The museum displays a diverse collection of komboloi from different cultures, including Greek, Middle Eastern, and Asian examples, illustrating their global significance.

2. Exhibits explore the craftsmanship and materials used in creating komboloi, with rare beads made from amber, silver, and semi-precious stones.

3. A section of the museum delves into the history and symbolism of worry beads, offering insight into their role in Greek social and spiritual life.

4. The attached shop offers visitors the chance to purchase handcrafted komboloi made by local artisans—perfect as a meaningful souvenir.

5. The museum’s intimate atmosphere and beautifully curated displays make it a great spot for close-up photography of intricate bead designs.

Visitor Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, and don’t hesitate to ask the friendly staff about the stories behind specific beads—they’re passionate about sharing their knowledge.

Photos: wu yi

Komboloi Museum

Portugal’s Évora Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most beautifully preserved medieval towns in Europe. Located in the Alentejo region, Évora is a treasure trove of Roman ruins, Gothic churches, whitewashed houses, and charming cobblestone streets. Once a royal residence and an important academic hub, the city’s blend of Roman, Moorish, and Portuguese influences makes it a must-visit for history lovers and photographers.


1. Roman Temple of Évora (Temple of Diana) – One of the best-preserved Roman temples in the Iberian Peninsula, dating back to the 1st century AD.

2. Évora Cathedral (Sé de Évora) – A massive Gothic cathedral offering stunning panoramic views from its rooftop.

3. Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos) – A haunting yet fascinating 16th-century chapel, decorated with thousands of human skulls and bones, carrying the message: "We bones that are here, for yours await."

4. Praça do Giraldo – The city’s lively main square, lined with historic arcades, cafés, and fountains, perfect for people-watching.

5. Évora University – One of the oldest universities in Portugal, founded in 1559, with beautiful Renaissance cloisters and azulejo (tile) panels.

Visitor Tip: Visit early in the morning to explore the quiet streets before the crowds arrive. Pair your visit with a trip to the nearby Almendres Cromlech, one of Europe’s most significant megalithic sites.

Photo: Vatsal Tyagi

Évora Historic Center

Named for its centuries-old pigeon houses carved into the cliffs, Pigeon Valley offers scenic hiking trails and panoramic views that capture the essence of Cappadocia’s beauty.
1. Pigeon Houses: Discover the valley’s ancient pigeon houses, which were historically used by locals to collect fertilizer for farming. Their intricate carvings make them a unique feature of the landscape.
2. Hiking Trails: Explore well-maintained trails that wind through the valley, offering opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and marvel at the dramatic rock formations.
3. Panoramic Views: Enjoy spectacular views of the valley from vantage points along the trail, especially near Uçhisar Castle.

Visitor Tip: Combine your hike with a visit to Uçhisar Castle for an elevated perspective of the valley. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for a relaxing trek.

Pigeon Valley

The Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, set in a 17th-century palace in the Janelas Verdes area of Lisbon, is a beacon of Portugal's artistic and cultural heritage. Known for housing the most extensive collection of national treasures in Portugal, the museum is a journey through time, showcasing works from the 12th to the 19th century. Top highlights:
1 - Architectural Splendor: The museum's architecture is a masterpiece in itself, with grand arches and soaring ceilings that create a mesmerizing ambience. The building, once the Palácio Alvor-Pombal, is a testament to Portugal's rich history, and its gardens offer a tranquil escape with views of the port and the 25 de Abril Bridge.
2 - Artistic Masterpieces: The museum's extensive collection includes notable works like Hieronymus Bosch's "Temptation of Saint Anthony" and Albrecht Dürer’s "Saint Jerome". It also features the Belém Monstrance, made with gold and gems brought by Vasco da Gama, and fascinating Japanese screens depicting the Portuguese arrival in Japan.
3 - Portuguese and European Works: The museum's Portuguese gallery includes significant works like Gregório Lopes’ “Martyrdom of St. Sebastian” and Domingos Sequeira’s “The Adoration of the Magi”. In the European collection, one can admire paintings by Piero della Francesca, Tiepolo, Van Dyck, and Zurbarán.
4 - The Albertas Chapel and Oriental Art: The Albertas Chapel, part of the original palace, exemplifies Portuguese baroque with its gilt carvings and blue-and-white tile panels. The Oriental Art section displays pieces from India, Japan, China, and Macau, reflecting Portugal's historical trade routes.
The museum is accessible by public transport, with bus and tram options available. General admission is €10.00, and it's free with the Lisboa Card. The museum's location near the charming Santos neighborhood makes it easily combinable with a visit to other local attractions.
Photo by Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga

Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga

Rising majestically above Athens, Mount Lycabettus offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of the city, stretching to the Aegean Sea. At 277 meters (908 feet) above sea level, it’s the highest point in Athens, making it a prime spot for breathtaking sunsets and unforgettable vistas of landmarks like the Acropolis, the Panathenaic Stadium, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Steeped in legend, the hill is said to have been created by Athena herself. 
1. The summit provides sweeping views of Athens and beyond, especially magical at sunset or night when the city lights sparkle. 
2. At the peak, a small, whitewashed chapel called the Chapel of St. George adds to the charm of the hill. It’s a serene spot for reflection and a great photo opportunity. 
3. Visitors can enjoy a meal or coffee at the mountaintop restaurant, blending fine dining with natural beauty. 
4. The open-air Lycabettus Theater hosts concerts and performances during the summer, adding a cultural touch to the experience. 
5. Visitors can hike up the winding trails for a more adventurous approach or take the cable car from Kolonaki for a comfortable ascent. 
Visitor Tip: Plan your visit for late afternoon to enjoy the sunset and city lights. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes if you decide to hike. 
Photo: Shutterstock

Mount Lycabettus

Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) nestled in the historic Plaza del Museo, is Andalusia's crown jewel and Spain's second most prestigious art museum after Madrid's Prado. Established within the walls of the former Merced Calzada Convent from the early 17th century, this museum showcases an unparalleled collection that spans from the Gothic era to the 20th century, with a special focus on the Sevillian school of the 17th century. Its comprehensive collection features masterpieces by artists such as Murillo, Valdés Leal, Zurbarán, and El Greco, alongside works from foreign painters like Jan Brueghel the Elder, Pieter Aertsen, and Cornelis de Vos​​​​​​​​. We cannot recommend it enough - for these reasons:
1. The museum is renowned for its Baroque art, particularly highlighting the Sevillian School's golden age with works by Murillo and his contemporaries. It is a testament to the flourishing of arts in Seville during the Siglo de Oro, Spain's Golden Century​​.
2. Beyond its art, the museum itself, originally a monastery, is a masterpiece of Andalusian Mannerist style. Its structure, centered around three patios and connected by a grand staircase to the church, showcases the architectural legacy of Seville.
3. You can marvel at iconic works such as "The Annunciation" by Alejo Fernández, a seminal piece of the Sevillian Renaissance, and Zurbarán’s "Saint Hugh in the Refectory". The museum's collection spans several rooms, each dedicated to different periods and styles, from medieval jewels to Baroque compositions and Andalusian costumbrism​​​​.
4. The museum serves as a cultural crossroads, where the religious themes of early works give way to the secular, vividly depicting Andalusian life in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with scenes of local customs, bullfighting, and fairs, offering a window into the soul of Andalusia​​.
Check official [website](https://www.museosdeandalucia.es) for hours and exhibitions.
Photo: Museum of Fine Arts Seville

Seville Museum of Fine Arts

Carved by the Dades River, the Dades Valley is one of Morocco’s most breathtaking landscapes, stretching between the High Atlas and Jebel Saghro mountains. Known as the “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs,” this region is dotted with ancient fortresses, traditional Berber villages, and dramatic rock formations. The winding road through the Dades Gorges is famous for its hairpin turns and spectacular canyon views, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.

1. Towering red and orange cliffs rise above the Dades River, creating a dramatic contrast with the lush green valley below. The ever-changing colors of the rock formations make sunrise and sunset particularly stunning.

2. A series of hairpin bends along the Dades Gorge road provides one of Morocco’s most thrilling drives. The viewpoint at the top offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

3. Unique rock formations called Monkey Fingers stand out with their smooth, rounded shapes, formed by millions of years of wind and water erosion. The site is a favorite for hikers and photographers.

4. Traditional kasbahs and Berber villages line the valley, where visitors can experience authentic Moroccan culture, meet locals, and enjoy a glass of mint tea with stunning views.

5. Scenic hiking trails through the gorge lead to hidden oases, ancient cave dwellings, and spectacular viewpoints, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for Visiting:
The best time to visit is March to May or September to November, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the winding roads. Staying in a guesthouse or kasbah hotel allows for a more immersive experience, and bringing a camera is essential to capture the valley’s stunning rock formations and scenic vistas.

Photo: saiko3p

Dades Valley & Gorges

Argentina

Buenos Aires, Argentina, is home to Plaza de Mayo, the city’s most historic and politically significant square, surrounded by iconic landmarks, including the Casa Rosada (Pink House), the seat of the Argentine government. This square has been the stage for revolutions, protests, and celebrations since Argentina’s independence. With its grand colonial architecture, historic monuments, and deep political symbolism, Plaza de Mayo is a must-visit for history lovers and photographers alike.


1. Casa Rosada, the iconic pink presidential palace, famous for its balcony, where Eva Perón (Evita) once addressed the nation.

2. The May Pyramid (Pirámide de Mayo), a symbol of Argentina’s independence, erected in 1811 and the oldest national monument in Buenos Aires.

3. Metropolitan Cathedral, a neoclassical landmark that houses the tomb of General José de San Martín, Argentina’s national hero.

4. The Mothers of Plaza de Mayo, a weekly human rights demonstration by women seeking justice for their children who disappeared during Argentina’s military dictatorship.

5. Historic architecture and government buildings, including the Cabildo (colonial-era town hall) and the Banco de la Nación Argentina, perfect for photography.

Visitor Tip: Visit on a Thursday afternoon to witness the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo protest, a powerful reminder of Argentina’s history. For a deeper experience, Casa Rosada offers free guided tours on weekends, allowing visitors to explore its grand halls and presidential offices.

Photo: cristiano caligaris

Plaza de Mayo

Marjan Hill, a symbol of Split, Croatia, is a verdant oasis that offers tranquility, panoramic views, and recreational activities. Why visit:

1: Just steps away from the bustling city, Marjan Hill provides a serene natural environment, with dense pine forests and Mediterranean vegetation, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.

2: Hike or bike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Split, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands. The vantage points from Marjan Hill are among the best in the region, offering spectacular photo opportunities.

3: With its network of trails, Marjan Hill is perfect for hiking, jogging, cycling, and rock climbing. Its natural terrain and scenic paths cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

4: Along its slopes, discover historic chapels, hermitages carved into the rock, and the 15th-century Church of St. Nicholas, providing a glimpse into the area's rich religious heritage.

5: The hill’s base is lined with beautiful pebble beaches and secluded coves, offering a refreshing swim or a quiet place to relax away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

6: With playgrounds, picnic areas, and the Split Zoo, Marjan Hill is also a family-friendly destination, offering activities and spaces suitable for visitors of all ages.

7: The hill is not only a place for physical activities but also a source of inspiration for artists, with art installations and galleries scattered around, as well as cozy cafés where you can unwind after a day of exploration.

Marjan Hill is a multifaceted jewel in Split’s crown, providing a perfect blend of nature, history, and recreation. It's an essential visit for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural depth of Split beyond its urban core.

Photo: Gurjit Sandhu 


Marjan Hill

Granada, Spain, is home to the Teatro del Generalife, an open-air theater set within the stunning Generalife Gardens of the Alhambra. This enchanting venue hosts concerts, dance performances, and flamenco shows, offering audiences a unique cultural experience in a breathtaking historical setting. With the Sierra Nevada mountains as a backdrop and the scent of blooming flowers in the air, a concert at the Teatro del Generalife is a magical way to experience the arts in Granada.

1. The open-air stage, surrounded by lush gardens, creates an intimate and atmospheric setting where music and nature blend seamlessly.

2. The Festival Internacional de Música y Danza de Granada, held annually, brings world-class musicians, orchestras, and dancers to perform in this historic venue.

3. Traditional flamenco performances, often featuring renowned Spanish artists, take on a special energy in this setting, enhancing the passion and drama of the dance.

4. The acoustics and nighttime lighting of the theater add to the immersive experience, making every performance unforgettable.

5. The location within the Generalife Gardens, part of the Alhambra complex, allows visitors to enjoy a pre-show stroll through one of Spain’s most beautiful historic landscapes.

Visitor Tip: Arrive early to explore the gardens before the concert, and book tickets in advance, especially during the Granada Festival, as performances often sell out quickly.

Photo: Diego Grandi

Teatro del Generalife

Trieste, Italy, is home to the Risiera di San Sabba, a former rice mill turned Nazi concentration camp during World War II. As the only Nazi extermination camp in Italy, it serves as a chilling yet essential reminder of one of history’s darkest periods. Today, the site operates as a museum and memorial, honoring the thousands of political prisoners, partisans, and Jewish victims who were imprisoned, tortured, and deported from this location. Walking through the stark, somber complex offers a powerful and deeply moving experience.


1. At the entrance, a vast, empty courtyard evokes a haunting sense of history, where prisoners once stood before being interrogated or deported to Auschwitz and other camps. The atmosphere is solemn and reflective.

2. Inside the museum, exhibits display personal belongings, historical documents, and testimonies from survivors and victims, providing an in-depth look at the horrors that took place here.

3. In the remains of the former crematorium, visitors can see the chilling site where bodies were burned after executions. The original structure was destroyed by retreating Nazis in an attempt to hide evidence of their crimes.

4. Along the walls, prison cells used for interrogation and solitary confinement remain preserved, offering a stark reminder of the suffering endured by those who were held here.

5. The steel memorial sculpture, designed by architect Romano Boico, stands as a tribute to the victims, its cold, industrial design reflecting the brutal reality of the site’s past.

Visitor Tip: Visit with an open heart and allow time to reflect. The museum is free to enter, and audio guides are available to provide deeper historical context.

Photo: Simone Padovani

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