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France

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

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

This city experience moves through Bordeaux’s grand heart, from the sumptuous cathedral to the Garonne, linking signature squares and riverfront perspectives. The focus is history in high definition: how the city grew, rebuilt and reinvented itself across centuries.

Major episodes meet smaller lives that left marks in courtyards and arcades, so well-known vistas gain depth and side streets carry new meaning. Chronology clicks into place under the Grand Théâtre's colonnades and along the river’s edge.

Your host Hubert is a Bordeaux-born historian and licensed guide, and his storytelling brings precision and momentum, connecting civic power, trade, faith and everyday work across the Water Mirror, Quinconces and the old gates without turning the route into a checklist. The result is a vivid, layered reading of the city that reveals what first glances miss, the kind of historical immersion only a local with years of study can deliver.

This experience stands apart for scope and depth: you move from Bordeaux’s origins to the present, meet Eleanor of Aquitaine — the princess who became queen of France and England — and confront the 18th-century slave trade within the wider story it belongs to.

The nickname “Little Paris” makes sense in its architecture, while the history of the Bordeaux vineyard, France’s largest, frames how the region formed. You move through a single narrative that binds grand architecture, big-picture history, and the everyday stories of Bordeaux’s people.

Hubert is a historian by training, and that expertise gives you a deeper perspective. You get clear connections rather than loose anecdotes. Along the way you also taste the local signature—the canelé—punctuating the route as the story deepens. The result is a city narrative that feels precise, compelling, and alive.

History Tour in Bordeaux across Old Town and riverfront, bringing the city’s past into sharp focus.

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

A Chronicle Along the Quays

Guided walk of Bordeaux with insights into history.

A canelé, the traditional local pastry.

Comfortable shoes and an umbrella in case of rain.

Hubert will meet you at your hotel in Bordeaux. After booking, connect with him via Chat to arrange details.

Hubert Saint Béat was born and raised in Bordeaux. He holds two master’s degrees, one in Roman History and one in Journalism, and has been a licensed tour guide since 2017. Driven by a desire to share stories rather than simply recite facts, he presents French history through the lens of his city, connecting landmarks with the people and events that shaped them.

His visits are tailored to each guest’s interests and pace, with clear explanations and room for questions so the narrative stays lively and meaningful. The aim is to open Bordeaux to you as a living place—its streets, its layers of history, its everyday rhythms—through informed, engaging storytelling.

Italy

Explore two of Florence’s most iconic churches on a journey through painting, sculpture, and architecture that reveals how two great preaching orders shaped the city’s spiritual and artistic legacy.

Santa Croce, the Franciscan basilica, houses masterpieces by Cimabue, Giotto, Donatello, Brunelleschi and others, and holds the tombs of Galileo, Michelangelo, and Machiavelli. Its vast spaces and narrative frescoes reflect a humble, human-focused approach to faith.

After a relaxing break with a sandwich and a glass of wine, we’ll cross the heart of Florence to reach Santa Maria Novella. This Dominican church is a treasure of early Renaissance art, featuring works by Giotto, Brunelleschi, and Ghirlandaio. Every chapel reveals a different language of devotion, rooted in theology and Dominican preaching.

The experience ends with a visit to the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, a historic apothecary active since 1221, where centuries of monastic knowledge live on.

What makes this experience unique is the way Claudia guides you through centuries of Florentine art—not just with knowledge, but with curiosity and narrative flair.

A licensed guide with over a decade of experience, Claudia is also an architectural historian with a special passion for painting and sculpture. Her background allows her to weave together stylistic analysis, historical insight, and unexpected stories that bring each artwork, chapel, and buried figure vividly to life. Claudia’s ability to move between formal interpretation and intimate detail gives this experience a rare depth.

Through her perspective, you’ll not only learn to recognize artistic styles and techniques, but also understand how they reflect two contrasting visions of faith: the Franciscan emphasis on humility and humanity, and the Dominican focus on intellect and theology. Each church becomes a lens through which to explore how art was used to move, teach, and inspire.

Walking Tour in Florence through Santa Croce and Santa Maria Novella’s art and architecture.

A Tale of Cloaks and Robes

This experience is designed for a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 8. What’s included: Full guidance, entry tickets to both churches, and a sandwich with a glass of wine or a soft drink.

Comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing to enter Catholic churches (cover knees and shoulders).

You’ll meet Claudia in front of the exit gate of Santa Croce, located on the right side of the church’s façade.

Claudia Vannucci is a licensed tour guide based in Florence, where she has been sharing her knowledge and passion for over ten years. She lives and breathes her city every day, bringing its stories to life through a unique mix of historical insight and personal connection.

Alongside her work as a guide, Claudia is also an architecture historian and a travel writer, with a special interest in how stories and memories are rooted in place.

One of her deepest passions is the study of cemeteries—a subject she has researched for years and written two books about.

With a curious mind and a storyteller’s spirit, Claudia delights in discussing everything from Renaissance art to Florentine cuisine, with occasional detours into the world of horror movies and true crime.

Portugal

This one-day experience takes you from Porto to the heart of the Douro Valley where you’ll witness centuries-old winemaking traditions and meet the families who have helped shape this UNESCO-recognized landscape. Before reaching the valley, you’ll make a pitstop at Amarante, a charming riverside town known for its cheeky sweet tradition. You’ll take a short break here for coffee and pastries before hitting the road to visit a small family-run vineyard in the countryside. The owners will welcome you with open arms, showing you around the vineyards and regaling stories of their ancestors while handing you a glass of their latest harvest. 

After the guided wine tasting, you’ll be welcomed for lunch in the home of another small producer to enjoy a seasonal, home-cooked meal shared around the family table. The drive back to Porto follows a slower, scenic route through terraced hillsides and river views with a couple of stops to take in the sights.

This experience centers on the generations of people who have carved their lives in the Douro — the families who live and work here, the relationships formed around wine, the food sourced from the countryside, and the community rituals that persist to this day.

Rather than touring large estates, you'll walk with growers through their vineyards and share a home-cooked meal in the kitchen of a small producer. At each stop, you’ll be welcomed as part of the family. The wine you’ll taste is poured by the people who make it. The food reflects what’s in season and sourced locally.

The pace is slow and personal, allowing space for conversations with the bakers of Amarante whipping up batches of the infamous doces fálicos, the winemakers of the Douro, and your guide, Alexandra, who will accompany you throughout. It's ideal for travelers who want to understand the Douro beyond the views — through the daily work, hospitality, and long memory of those who continue to care for the land.

From Porto, travel to Amarante, a charming town on the banks of the Tâmega River, for a short coffee break paired with the town's infamous cheeky sweets.

The drive offers an introduction to the Douro wine region as a whole and highlights Amarante as a producer of green wine.

Enjoy a relaxed ride from Porto into the scenic Douro region.

Departure from Porto

A guided walk in historic Amarante, covering the town's main landmarks and local pastry shops.

Gain insight into local legends, annual festivals, and cheeky sweets that have been concocted in Amarante for centuries.

Stroll through baroque streets and sample Amarante's sweet treats.

Amarante Heritage Walk

Lunch is prepared and served by a Douro family using local, seasonal ingredients.

This is a chance to exchange stories and sample regional delicacies prepared by the hands of those who live here.

Share a seasonal meal in a producer's home in the Douro.

Home-Cooked Lunch

Sit back and enjoy your ride back to Porto.

The day ends with quiet reflection—no rushing, just a gentle journey along the Douro Valley until you're back in the hustle of the city.

Relax on the journey to Porto, reflecting on your findings and the people you've met along the way.

Return to Porto

Visit a 200‑year‑old quinta, tour its vineyards and cellars, and enjoy a guided tasting of authentic Douro wines.

This is a chance to visit a small‑scale production, far from the big, frequented wine estates. Alexandra will introduce you directly to the winemakers, allowing you to engage closely and ask questions while sampling the fruits of their labor.

Meet a multigenerational wine family in the Douro and taste their estate wines.

Vineyard Tour

Enjoy a scenic route back to Porto with photo stops overlooking the Douro’s dramatic landscape.

Each outlook captures the region’s UNESCO-recognized landscape from different perspectives.

Take in terraced vineyards and river views on your final drive back to Porto.


Panoramic Route & Scenic Stops

Day Trip from Porto to Douro Valley: Visit two small wineries & enjoy homemade lunch with winemaker.

The Generations of the Douro

Guided walk through the historic center of Amarante with coffee and pastries.

Visit to a family-owned vineyard in the Douro Valley with guided wine tasting.

Home-cooked lunch with local producers in the Douro countryside.

Scenic drive through the Douro Valley with stops at panoramic viewpoints.

Private round-trip transportation from Porto.

Comfortable shoes to walk around the town and vineyards. Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen). Water bottle. Weather-appropriate layers (mornings can be cooler). A camera or phone for capturing landscapes. Curiosity and an openness to connect with locals.

You will be picked up from your hotel in Porto. After booking, share your hotel details via chat to arrange the meeting point with Alexandra.

Your local host is a storyteller and regional expert with deep ties to the Douro and its people. With a background in cultural mediation and sustainable tourism, they curate each visit to prioritize meaningful exchange over spectacle. Alongside them, the winemakers and producers you’ll meet are stewards of centuries-old traditions, welcoming you into their daily lives.

Croatia

Explore the enchanting Trsteno Botanic Garden, located just 20 minutes from Dubrovnik, on a unique tour designed to engage all your senses. This experience is crafted to blend the beauty of nature with the rich history of Dubrovnik's Renaissance villas and countryside traditions. Discover the secrets of olive oil production at the villa’s olive mill and learn about the diverse array of plants, their uses, myths, and biological significance.

The tour is particularly family-friendly, offering interactive and creative activities for children to learn about and connect with nature. After exploring the garden’s natural and historical wonders, including the 500-year-old Asian plane-trees, relax under the shade of palm trees for an ecological picnic. Savor fresh, homemade traditional foods sourced from nearby family farms, perfectly encapsulating the region's culinary heritage.

Natural beauty and the 500-year old giant natural monuments - Asian plane-trees. It is the home of the Trsteno Arboretum. One can easily get there in some 20 minutes from Dubrovnik.

The Trsteno Botanic Garden, with its vast array of plant life and historical significance, serves as a perfect backdrop for a journey through sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste. The combination of historical insights, botanical knowledge, and hands-on activities makes this tour educational and enjoyable for all ages.

What truly sets this experience apart is the scenic picnic, offering a taste of authentic local cuisine in an idyllic setting. The focus on ecological sustainability and local produce underscores a deeper connection with the natural world and the cultural heritage of the Dubrovnik region. Other highlights include an interactive garden tour and an Olive Mill demonstration. Join us for this sensory journey where history, nature, and gastronomy blend seamlessly to create an unforgettable experience for the family.

Walking Tour in Trsteno, near Dubrovnik, with family activities, garden history and a picnic.

We all know that a garden can be pleasing for the eye, but what about our other senses?
The story created for you intertwines the history of the locality, Dubrovnik renascence villas in general, the customs of the Dubrovnik countryside villages throughout history, explanation of olive oil production by the villa olive mill, interesting information about the diversity of plants, their usage & myths, biology and beauty. For families with children throughout the visit the tour is adjusted with interactive and creative content through which kids learn about nature and have fun at the same time.
Afterwards we are having a picnic in a beautiful palm meadow in the shades of the trees. Food served is explicitly ecological from our family farm and the ones nearby. All that is served is fresh homemade traditional food of the region.

Escape to Trsteno

This experience accommodates a minimum of 4 and maximum of 8 participants to make the base costs and logistics work. Fewer people can book this but will be charged a supplemental fee to achieve the minimum.  What’s included: Local guide, entrance ticket, picnic & drinks. Picnic - wine (juice for kids), water, homemade prosciutto, various cheese, homemade bread, seasonal salad, homemade jam and cake.


Trsteno Arboretum. 
**Transfer is not included/ it can be added on request Natural beauty and the 500-year old giant natural monuments - Asian plane-trees. It is the home of the Trsteno Arboretum. One can easily get there in some 20 minutes from Dubrovnik.

Our dedicated hosts are committed to providing a unique, nature-oriented experience, focusing on local food and a personalized approach. Their passion for sharing knowledge and ensuring a relaxing visit shines throughout the tour.

Türkiye

Step into the world of the Ottoman Empire on this immersive four-hour journey through Istanbul’s grand historical legacies. Begin at Topkapı Palace, the seat of Ottoman power for nearly four centuries, where you’ll explore opulent courtyards, lavish chambers, and the exclusive royal harem. 

Next, visit the stunning Blue Mosque, famed for its intricate blue İznik tiles that showcase the pinnacle of Ottoman artistry and architectural skill.

Guided by an expert with decades of experience, this tour offers more than just visits to historic sites; it provides a rich glimpse into the artistic and cultural heritage that defined the Ottoman era. After exploring Topkapı Palace and the Blue Mosque, you’ll enjoy a break at a nearby café that regularly hosts craft workshops connected to Turkey’s Ottoman heritage. By the end, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how this powerful empire left its indelible mark on Istanbul and the world.

This experience is located on the European side in the Sultanahmet district 

This experience immerses you in the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire, blending visits to historic sites with a look into Ottoman craftsmanship still practiced today. You’ll explore an extensive collection of treasures, from ornate clothing and weapons to religious relics and one of the earliest Quran manuscripts. Led by an expert in Turkish history and Ottoman heritage, you’ll hear fascinating stories of the sultans who once walked these monuments, adding depth to every artifact. A highlight of the tour is a visit to a historic café set within an old medrese (Islamic school), where you’ll enjoy Turkish coffee or tea with an opportunity to observe artisans crafting ceramics and calligraphy inspired by Ottoman designs. 

This rare experience allows you to see the artistry of Ottoman tilework in the Blue Mosque and the Topkapı Palace, and then witness a few techniques behind these time-honored crafts. Most importantly, you will be regaled by the stories and anecdotes shared by your guide. 

Walking Tour in Istanbul of Ottoman highlights: Topkapı Palace, Blue Mosque, art and heritage.

Echoes of the Ottoman Empire

Guided tour through the Blue Mosque. 

Entrance Tickets to certain parts of the Topkapı Palace including Harem Section.

Public Transportation (which is a great experience in itself in the company of a local expert).

Tea/coffee in a local cafe. 

Scarf for ladies , appropriate dress for mosque visit, comfortable shoes, and a camera 

You will be picked from your hotel. Provide us your hotel details via Fernwayer chat after booking.  

Your host is an expert tour guide specializing in Ottoman history, with twenty years of experience in the field. Having traveled extensively throughout Turkey to gather insights and historical context directly from various regions, the guide brings a wealth of knowledge that enriches the exploration of each site. Their deep understanding of the Ottoman Empire’s evolution and its impact on modern Turkey provides a compelling layer of interpretation that transforms a simple tour into a rich educational journey. Their background, paired with a passion for sharing this knowledge, makes them an ideal host for unveiling the grandeur and intricacies of Istanbul's Ottoman heritage. You'll be accompanied by Volkan himself or one of his equally professional associates, such as Betül.

Morocco

This is a 3-hour exploration of Fes Medina with Omar Chennafi, a local cultural expert and renowned photographer. The tour offers a unique combination of discovering hidden corners of the Medina and mastering photography. As you meander through the Medina, Omar will guide you to unseen spots, perfect for capturing the essence of Fes Medina. You'll learn to adjust your camera settings as you transition from shadowed alleys to sunlit spaces, enhancing your photography skills in diverse lighting conditions. The tour emphasizes appreciation of the local culture and of the Fassis (people of Fes), with Omar teaching you how to approach subjects for photography, This tour includes sampling all the delights of the medina: meeting local people, hearing their stories, getting introduced to crafts and craftspeople, and learning about social impact projects. 

This experience provides a deeper understanding of street photography with a focus on cultural exploration. You'll gain insights into the daily life of the Medina and learn how to capture it authentically. It is an opportunity to engage with local customs and traditions and combines cultural immersion with technical photography training. You’ll see the Medina through your lens and also learn to tell its story artistically and respectfully. 

Key highlights: Expect less-traveled, non-touristy paths through the Medina, capturing its raw beauty, and artisan workshops where you’ll witness the multi-generational skills of local craftspeople, their concentration, dedication and humanity as they work. Omar will guide you to explore the hidden beauty of this ancient city with vibrant markets and shops bustling with life: you’ll be able to capture the energy and rhythm of the place. Along the way, you will enjoy local delicacies like camel burgers (or vegetarian options) and Moroccan tea. 

Photo Walk in Fes Medina mastering street photography with expert photographer and culture keeper.

Timeless Medina: A Photo Walk 

Photography-focused walking tour of Fes Medina with local expert Omar Chennafi.

Hands-on learning of camera settings and techniques in varied lighting.

Insights into Fes culture, crafts, and social impact initiatives.

Access to hidden corners and lesser-known parts of the Medina.

Ethical photography guidance and subject interaction tips.

Tastings of local food delicacies.

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

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

Omar Chennafi, a celebrated Moroccan photographer, and founder of several Fes cultural events, is known for his deep connection to Fes Medina and his exceptional photographic skills. His expertise not only lies in capturing stunning visuals but also in understanding and respecting the local culture, making him an ideal guide for this immersive experience.

This exclusive experience offers rare access to the spiritual and musical traditions of Gnawa, hosted in an atmospheric riad or a zaouia—used by Gnawa as a sacred gathering place. It begins with a guided conversation led by a Maâlem (master musician) and his ensemble, tracing Gnawa’s fusion of West African, Berber and Islamic influences. You’ll learn about the spiritual meanings behind each song—how colors are chosen to express emotion—and the symbolism of traditional instruments like guembri, qraqeb, and tbel.

The experience builds toward a live acoustic performance, showcasing hypnotic, looping rhythms and layered textures that give Gnawa its trance-like power. Each song holds a story, a color, and a mood. After the performance, you’ll share a homemade Moroccan dinner and open conversation with the musicians—a chance to ask questions and connect on a personal level in an intimate, sacred space.

This experience honors the artistry and spirituality of a deeply rooted cultural form.

This experience is a window into the living soul of Gnawa culture, offered by some of the few true practitioners still transmitting its depth and meaning. Many Gnawa performances today cater to tourists and lose the tradition’s spiritual essence. This private session reconnects you with the roots of Gnawa: music as ritual, healing, and ancestral storytelling.

You’ll engage directly with a Maâlem and his ensemble in an intimate setting rarely open to outsiders. Their music is played—and it’s explained, felt, and shared. You’ll explore the emotional resonance of each song, the stories behind the colors of the emotions, and the communal nature of Gnawa ceremonies. 

Over dinner and tea, you’ll experience firsthand the generosity and insight of musicians who keep this endangered tradition alive—not for spectacle, but for the sake of its spirituality and tradition. This is not a show—it’s a transmission of cultural memory, preserved with dignity and shared in trust.

Gnawa Music in Essaouira: Live performance, spiritual meaning & traditional Moroccan dinner. 

An Evening of Gnawa Music

Private session with a Gnawa Maâlem and his ensemble.

Guided discussion on the spiritual and cultural roots of Gnawa.

Live acoustic performance with traditional instruments.

Opportunity to try playing guembri, qraqeb, or tbel.

Homemade Moroccan dinner shared with the musicians.

Held in a traditional riad or sacred zaouia setting.

Comfortable attire suitable for sitting on floor cushions. 
Camera or smartphone to capture memorable moments.
An open mind and readiness to engage with a rich cultural tradition​. 

Details of the meeting point will be provided post-booking via Chat.

You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide deeply connected to Essaouira's cultural scene. Fluent in multiple languages, they facilitate engaging conversations between you and the musicians, enriching the experience with cultural context and personal anecdotes. Your guide is thoughtful, generous, and open—ready to answer your questions, translate the meaning behind the rituals, and welcome you into a world that is usually closed to outsiders.

The Maâlem—a master of Gnawa music—is dedicated to preserving the spiritual and cultural soul of this centuries-old tradition. Raised within a lineage of musicians, he learned to play the guembri and perform ceremonial rituals from a young age, absorbing the music and the healing philosophy behind it. Fluent in the symbolic language of rhythms, colors, and stories, he is one of the few remaining custodians of authentic Gnawa practice. With his ensemble, he shares music, history, spirituality, memory, and community.

This is a journey into the heart of the Algarve's rural hinterland, unveiling the region's culinary treasures hidden away from the typical tourist path. Your exploration begins in Zambujal, where Rui, a former banker turned passionate advocate for traditional black pig farming, welcomes you. Rui, having traded his office, paperwork, and bureaucracy, for the open fields of his family's farm, now produces some of the Algarve's finest ham. This segment of the tour not only introduces you to Rui's esteemed black pork meat through interactive discussions and tastings but also celebrates the craft of ham, a prized local delicacy. The adventure continues with a 30-minute scenic drive to Castro Marim, a haven for the traditional art of salt harvesting. Under the guidance of a seasoned salt farmer, you'll immerse yourself in the delicate process of “flor de sal” collection, experiencing firsthand the blend of culture, conservation, and culinary excellence that defines these vibrant communities.

This curated tour intricately weaves the peaceful allure of the Algarve's countryside with its emerging food scene. It takes you from the pastoral tranquility of Zambujal, where the art of traditional pork production is a way of life, to the historic salt pans of Castro Marim, renowned for producing the finest sea salt. Indulge in the region's best pork and discover the ancient craft of salt making, an experience seldom encountered by the average visitor. This exceptional journey will satisfy your palate and forge a connection with the dedicated individuals upholding these timeless practices. In Castro Marim, the age-old technique of hand-harvested salt, aligned with nature's rhythms, exemplifies a sustainable lifestyle that has contributed to the Mediterranean's culinary wealth for centuries. This Experience is a testament to human creativity, a dedication to preserving cultural and ecological legacies, and a unique opportunity to delve deep into Algarve's traditions and rural charm.

This region situated in a remote and unknown Algarve, near the border, away from the popular tourism spots. In this segment, you will be driving in your own car, and following the guide’s car. 

Drive your own car, following the guide’s car. 

This is rural Algarve at its scenic best. You will enjoy the scenic route. The trip will reveal you glimpses of a tradicional rural way of living, with beautiful landscapes, tinny rural villages and local communities. A small stop in one of these rural villages is part of this route.

Driving Through Rural Algarve 

An adventure in the tranquil salt pans of Castro Marim, guided by Jorge. With a passion for sustainability and conservation, he has transformed the salt pans into a nature reserve, balancing commercial success with ecological responsibility. Discover the age-old method of salt harvesting by hand, learning about its ecological benefits and the local wildlife it supports. Experience collecting the prized flor de sal yourself, followed by a tasting session that reveals the profound impact of this artisanal salt on enhancing the flavors of local produce.

Drive your own car, following the guide’s car. The Experience ends at Castro Marim.

 In Castro Marim, the art of salt harvesting by hand in harmony with nature showcases a sustainable lifestyle rarely seen today. For centuries salt has been exported from Algarve to many mediterrnean regions. This tour not only offers a taste of the local delicacies but also serves as a testament to human ingenuity and commitment to preserving cultural heritage and natural ecosystems, making it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. This is a great way of knowing more about the Algarve, its traditions and rural life.

Castro Marim's Salt Pans

Your exploration begins in the tranquil village of Zambujal, a hidden gem in the Algarve's rural landscape. Here, Rui has transformed traditional pig farming into an art form. Upon arrival, Rui will share his journey from banker to farmer, illustrating his passion for sustainable agriculture. As you tour the farm, witness the Alentejano black pigs in their natural habitat, thriving on a diet of acorns and figs, which contributes to the distinct flavor of their meat. 

This immersive experience not only showcases the farm's dedication to animal welfare and environmental sustainability but also offers a taste of authentic Algarvean gastronomy. The highlight of your visit will be a comprehensive tasting session. Delight in an array of pork products, including the exquisite presunto, accompanied by local cheeses, bread, and a selection of condiments, all under the shade of ancient olive trees.

Visit a black pig farm with sustainable farming practices, a hidden gem, led by a former banker. 

Part 1: Zambujal Village 

Food Tour in Algarve with black pork farm visit in Zambujal & flor de sal harvest in Castro Marim.

Black Pigs & White Gold: A Journey Through Algarve

Guided visit and tasting at Rui’s traditional black pig farm in Zambujal.

Insight into black pork farming and artisanal ham production.

Lunch featuring Rui’s premium black pork products.

Scenic 30-minute drive to Castro Marim.

Guided tour of a traditional salt farm with hands-on flor de sal harvesting.

Salt tasting and insights into the craft of natural salt production.

Drive over to the meeting point in your own transportation and follow your guide’s car from one location to another. Comfortable footwear is recommended. Also bring an appetite eager to explore the rich flavors of the Algarve's culinary delights. 

Zambujal, Vaqueiros, Alcoutim, Portugal. We recommend you organize a private transport to get here - either rental car or via your hotel reception

Experience the Algarve through the eyes of locals deeply passionate about their crafts. Rui, with his revolutionary approach to pig farming, brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to sustainable practices. Jorge is the visionary behind the salt farm that has revitalized the traditional craft of salt harvesting in Castro Marim. His expertise makes him a captivating guide through the salt harvesting process. In addition, you will be accompanied by a guide from João’s team, and you'll be ensured an enriching experience filled with personal stories and insider knowledge.

Japan

On this fascinating photowalk of a lesser-known Tokyo neighborhood, photographer Lee Chapman guides you through the changing streets he has been documenting through his photographs for over a decade. Far from the steel and glass monuments of Shinjuku and Shibuya, this low-lying neighborhood in the shadow of Tokyo Skytree has been slowly evolving away from its working-class identity.

Lee introduces you to the main characters of his story, buildings and businesses that have survived decades in this neighborhood. Others survive only in memory, memorialized by Lee's beautiful images that he shows you as you walk, sometimes standing in front of the place that no longer exists.

Take a short break in a tiny local restaurant or coffee shop where Lee knows the owners by name to enjoy a refreshing drink or an inexpensive meal as Lee shares his memories and thoughts about the changing neighborhood.

If time allows, finish the tour at a location made famous in Wem Wenders's film, "Perfect Days."

Lee is well-known in the neighborhood from his consistent presence over the years, so you'll be greeted by friendly locals who know Lee and have likely been photographed by him. Every interaction is wonderful and unrehearsed, a tribute to the people of this incredible "disappearing" city.

Along the way, Lee provides tips from a pro photographer about composition, technique, and capturing the decisive moment.

Lee tells a story of both sadness and hope. Although much of Tokyo's past will disappear and never return, there is a growing movement among young entrepreneurs to bring life back to this neighborhood and save important places from destruction. Lee may introduce you to some of these important people as you walk through the neighborhood, and explain how they are attempting to preserve the past for future generations to enjoy.

Photo Walking Tour in Old Tokyo exploring a charming neighborhood and meeting friendly residents.

Disappearing Tokyo

A light meal or a snack and coffee break along the route.

A camera, preferably one with manual control over some settings, for capturing images of your day and learning techniques from Lee.

Comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be covering a fairly long distance.

Seasonal recommendations: a small umbrella (for sun or rain), a water bottle, a sun hat, and sunscreen.

Meet Lee outside the ticket gates of Hikifune Station of the Tobu Skytree Line. There is only one ticket gate so you can't miss him.

Lee Chapman is a freelance photographer, long-term Tokyo resident, and self-described “lover of all things Showa and dated,” whose work has been featured in The Guardian, The Japan Times, and The Economist. Since moving to Japan in 1998, he has focused his lens on the city’s overlooked backstreets, documenting neighborhoods and lives under constant threat from Tokyo’s rapid redevelopment. His images capture the quiet resilience of its older districts, and the human stories embedded in everyday spaces, preserving fleeting moments that reveal both fragility and strength.

As an old Tokyo photowalk guide, Lee’s approach is rooted in patience and respect — he guides travelers into areas far from the glossy image of modern Tokyo, sharing insider knowledge and personal connections built over decades. Each walk is both a lesson in photography and an intimate exploration of a Tokyo that is fast disappearing but not yet forgotten. 

Mexico

This rare and immersive walking tour offers an insider’s look at San Ángel, one of Mexico City’s most storied and atmospheric neighborhoods. Led by your host—a cinema and literature expert turned florist—you’ll explore cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era mansions, vibrant plazas, hidden gardens. Highlights include visiting Mercado de las Flores, where local vendors showcase a kaleidoscope of blooms, and the historic Templo del Carmen, renowned for its baroque architecture and tiled domes. 

The tour culminates at your host’s floral studio, a creative haven where native plants and traditional arrangements converge. Here, you’ll enjoy a refreshing drink and engage in conversation about the neighborhood’s rich history and your host’s unique journey from the arts to floristry. This experience offers a personal and immersive perspective on a lesser-known facet of Mexico City. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for how history, horticulture, and neighborhood memory intertwine. 

San Ángel is one of the neighborhoods in Mexico City that has preserved its pre-urban character. Once an independent town, it retains its charm: a blend of colonial history and artistic vibrancy in its cobbled streets and stone churches, and a rhythm that feels worlds apart from the rest of CDMX. It’s home to the annual Feria de las Flores, a tradition since 1856 that blends indigenous and Catholic heritage through floral displays and cultural events.

Your host, Raquel, was born here and brings layered context—historical, sociological, and botanical. She shares stories behind sites like the legendary Mercado de las Flores, and how former haciendas shaped land use and architecture.

Inside her floral studio, you’ll get a rare look at native Mexican plants—from maíz to preserved agave quiotes —and how she uses in everyday and ritual arrangements. You’ll learn about San Ángel’s unique identity, shaped by its history, residents, and traditions.

Walking Tour in Mexico City through San Ángel’s flower markets, colonial churches and hidden plazas.

Bougainvillea & Baroque

Guided walking tour through San Ángel with a local host and florist.

Cultural insights into the neighborhood’s history, architecture, and gardens.

Visit to Mercado de las Flores and the baroque Templo del Carmen.

Coffee or tea to start the tour.

Final stop at your host’s floral studio for refreshments and conversation.

A small floral keepsake to take home.

Comfortable shoes, a cap or hat during sunny months, and an umbrella during the rainy season—just in case. Most importantly, bring a sense of curiosity for a neighborhood experience far from the usual tourist routes in Mexico City.

We’ll meet at a local coffee spot, where you can enjoy a coffee or tea before we begin the route. Chat with Raquel after the booking to confirm the meeting point and get directions. 

Born and raised in CDMX, Raquel spent 10 years in Oaxaca developing her approach to botanical and floral architecture. After a career in literature and cinema, she now specializes in native and endemic foliage, florals, and markets through Floresrudas Studio. She is a published author with deep knowledge of ancestral Mexican culinary and market traditions, endemic botany and florals, and an intimate, lifelong connection to the southern barrio of San Ángel, where she was raised.

Cappadocia stirs the imagination long before you arrive. This three-day journey is for travelers who crave striking landscapes, cultural depth, and light that feels almost sacred. It’s a place to move slowly, wake early, and let the elements of stone, sky, and craft tell their story. Over three immersive days, you’ll explore the region’s most iconic sites with local guides, from fairy chimneys and underground cities to artisans’ studios and balloon-filled skies.
DAY 1 – FAIRY CHIMNEYS AND NORTHERN VALLEYS | Begin your journey with a full-day guided tour through the heart of northern Cappadocia. You’ll wander through the whimsical formations of Göreme, step into ancient rock-cut dwellings, and explore the pottery traditions of Avanos. The day unfolds through valleys shaped by wind and time, where geological wonders meet human history. It’s a grounded and wide-angle introduction to a land shaped by fire, air, and hands.
DAY 2 – BALLOONS, CRAFT, AND SUNSET | Rise before dawn to meet the golden light. At sunrise, a local photographer leads you through a peaceful valley as hot air balloons drift silently above, casting shadows over cave walls and soft ridges. After a slow breakfast, spend the late morning immersed in Cappadocia’s artisan traditions, from carpet weaving to marbling, guided by makers in Avanos. In the evening, as the landscape glows in blue hour tones, return to the hills for a photography walk across the Red Valley, capturing the shift from day to night.
DAY 3 – UNDERGROUND CITIES AND THE SOUTH | Your final day dives deep—both literally and historically. A guided day trip takes you south, into the vast subterranean cities that once sheltered entire populations. From there, you’ll move through Pigeon Valley and the quiet streets of Ortahisar, where everyday life moves to ancient rhythms. The afternoon leads you through the soft palette of the Rose and Red Valleys, closing the journey with views that feel both geological and emotional in their weight.
WHERE TO STAY IN CAPPADOCIA | Most travelers base themselves in Göreme or Uçhisar, two villages with easy access to sunrise viewpoints and valley hikes. Göreme is lively and central, with cave hotels tucked into the cliffs, while Uçhisar offers a quieter pace and panoramic views. If you’re seeking charm, walkability, and good access to experiences, either makes a beautiful base—just be sure to book early, especially if you’re hoping to see balloons from your terrace. Most boutique hotels in both Göreme and Uçhisar offer on-site dining or are a short walk from local restaurants serving Anatolian dishes. For a quiet end to the day, many travelers enjoy dinner on their hotel terrace after the evening light fades.
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.

Dreamscapes of Cappadocia

3 days in Cappadocia exploring fairy chimneys, artisan traditions, and sunrise balloon moments.

United States

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

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

Spain

Salt, Song and Time in Cádiz

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

This five-day itinerary blends Spain’s capital highlights with local stories and cultural depth. From Madrid’s historic neighborhoods and world-class museums to flamenco traditions, royal palaces, and day trips to Toledo and Valladolid, it’s designed for travelers who want rich encounters, not just sights. Expect thoughtful walking tours, art immersion, bold cuisine, and windows into Spanish culture past and present.

DAY 1 – LITERARY ROOTS AND ROYAL VIEWS | Begin your trip with a guided walking tour through Barrio de las Letras, Madrid’s literary quarter, in the company of a local writer who brings the streets of Cervantes and Lope de Vega to life. Continue with a self-led visit to the Royal Palace, then pause at the Mirador de la Cornisa for sunset views over the cathedral and palace gardens. End the evening in Chamberí, where the city’s modern culinary scene offers a vibrant welcome.

DAY 2 – MASTERPIECES AND MODERN ART | Join a guided tour of Madrid’s artistic core with visits to the Prado and Reina Sofía museums, discovering iconic works by Goya, Velázquez, and Picasso, plus a tapas stop along the Paseo del Prado. In the afternoon, explore Lavapiés, a neighborhood known for its cultural mix and creative energy. Cap the day with a self-led experience at Ikono Madrid, an interactive art space that invites sensory play, followed by a relaxed dinner in the center.

DAY 3 – FLAMENCO TRADITIONS AND SPANISH OPERA | Begin with a guided flamenco tour inside a working academy to understand the rhythms, gestures, and stories of this living tradition. Then explore the Teatro Real at your own pace, soaking in its architectural grandeur and national prestige. As night falls, your second flamenco experience brings it all together through live performance, local food, and emotional resonance — an immersive look into Spanish passion and artistry.

DAY 4 – TOLEDO’S HERITAGE AND ILLUSIONS | Travel to Toledo for a guided cultural tour exploring the city’s Three Cultures legacy through its mosque, synagogue, and cathedral. Sample local marzipan and regional tapas before returning to Madrid. In the afternoon, step into the Museum of Illusions for a playful, self-led dive into visual perception and perspective. The day ends with dinner in a setting that mirrors the creative spirit of what you’ve seen.

DAY 5 – VINEYARDS AND A LAST NIGHT OUT | Head out on a guided day trip to Valladolid’s Rueda wine region, where you’ll walk the vineyards, meet local winemakers, and enjoy a traditional lamb lunch. After returning to Madrid in the afternoon, take time to rest or explore at your own pace. For your final night, enjoy one more round of inventive Spanish cuisine and raise a glass to five days of discovery.

WHERE TO STAY IN MADRID | Stay central for easy access to museums, neighborhoods, and late-night dinners. Barrio de las Letras is ideal for walkers and art lovers with its cultural density and charm. Malasaña offers youthful energy and nightlife, while Chamberí feels more local and peaceful. The area around Retiro Park is perfect for quiet mornings and elegant evening strolls.
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.


Madrid in Streets and Stories

5 days in Madrid filled with royal landmarks, flamenco nights, tapas, and art from Goya to Gaudí.

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

Sand, Salt & Stars in Atacama

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

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

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

Algarve’s Crafts, Land and Sea

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

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.

Greece

Athens in Three Acts

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

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.

One day is never enough for a city as vast as Mexico City, but with the right guidance it can still feel complete. This curated journey is designed for travelers passing through with limited time who want to experience the pulse of the capital. From monumental plazas and layered histories in the heart of the city to an evening of food and stories in Polanco, it is a condensed but vivid portrait of Mexico City.
DAY 1 – HISTORIC CENTER AND POLANQUITO | Begin with a guided walking tour of the Historic Center, where colonial facades, modern landmarks, and grand murals trace the evolution of Mexico City. Your guide weaves together architecture, politics, and art to bring the city’s past and present into focus as you move through plazas, palaces, and hidden corners. After a short pause in the afternoon, the evening takes you north to Polanco for a guided food tour. Here you taste tacos, tortas, churros, and chocolates while exploring elegant streets that tell another side of the city’s story. It is the perfect balance of culture and cuisine, showing what makes Mexico City unforgettable in just one day.
WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY | If you are staying overnight, Centro Histórico puts you steps from plazas and landmarks, ideal for starting the day with ease. Roma and Condesa offer a creative base with leafy streets, cafés, and nightlife. Polanco is refined and stylish, perfect for ending the evening close to your dinner tour. Each neighborhood gives you comfort and convenience, even on a short stay.
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.

One Day in Mexico City

Fernwayer’s perfect one day in Mexico City moves from historic icons to Polanco’s flavors by night.

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

Seville in Shadow and Light

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

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.

From ancient medinas to soaring mountain peaks, this 7-day itinerary in Morocco begins in the heart of Marrakesh and ends high in the Atlas Mountains. A full week of cultural contrasts, spiritual traditions and modern art, plus rooftop sunsets, hands-on cooking classes, vibrant souks and quiet trails. Each day balances immersive experiences with time to explore independently, inviting you to see Morocco through the eyes of artists, chefs, guides, and storytellers.

DAY 1 – MEDINA FOUNDATIONS & ROOFTOP VIEWS | Begin in the heart of the old city with The City of Seven Men, a walking tour that weaves together faith, folklore, and Moroccan tea in a local home. In the afternoon, visit Bahia Palace, where carved cedar and painted ceilings reflect Marrakesh’s opulent past. As the sun sets, join Skyline Stories of Marrakesh, a rooftop journey through a thousand years of history. End the night over dinner at Le Foundouk, with views to match the mood.

DAY 2 – FLAVORS & FAITH | Spend your day with Amanda’s Courtyard Kitchen, a warm and generous cooking class in a private home. In the late afternoon, explore the remains of El Badi Palace, once a symbol of Saadian grandeur. As evening falls, experience A Gathering of Sufi Presence—a powerful blend of Hadra music, spiritual storytelling, and traditional Moroccan cuisine. Wrap up with cocktails and city lights at Dardar Rooftop.

DAY 3 – ART & ATMOSPHERE IN GUELIZ | Today is centered in Gueliz, Marrakesh’s contemporary quarter. Begin with Conversation with an Artist, a curated visit to a local gallery and studio meetup. Then discover the legacy of Yves Saint Laurent at the museum, followed by a stroll through the vivid and peaceful Jardin Majorelle in the Psychedelic Mirage story. Pause for shopping, cafés, or a relaxed dinner at Al Fassia, a Gueliz institution run by women.

DAY 4 – HERITAGE & STORYTELLING | Dive deeper into Marrakesh’s medina with A Thousand and One Crafts, a private walk through its hidden workshops and time-honored techniques. In the afternoon, visit the Mouassine Music Museum and the Photography Museum, both offering quiet insight into Moroccan life and creativity. End the day with 1001 Stories in Marrakesh, an intimate evening of storytelling, music, and dinner. L’mida rooftop awaits to close the day with vibrant flavors and city lights.

DAY 5 – SWEETS & STILLNESS | Begin your day with a heartwarming class at Signs & Sweets, where deaf chefs guide you through the art of Moroccan pastry in a café that empowers and connects. In the afternoon, pause for renewal with a traditional hammam ritual—an invitation to slow down and reconnect. End the day with a sensory feast in one of Marrakesh’s most atmospheric restaurants.

DAYS 6–7 – INTO THE ATLAS | Leave the city behind for a two-day trek into the High Atlas Mountains. Your guide leads you from the village of Imlil toward the summit of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Along the way, you’ll pass Berber hamlets, alpine trails, and star-filled skies. Spend the night in a mountain refuge and descend the next day with the stillness of the mountains etched into your memory.

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 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.

Marrakesh & the Atlas Way

7 days in Morocco from Marrakesh with an itinerary that blends medina life, culture and mountains.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Andalusia: Seville to Granada

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

Argentina

Buenos Aires, Argentina, is home to the San Telmo Market (Mercado de San Telmo), a historic indoor market that offers a perfect blend of antiques, artisanal crafts, and authentic Argentine street food. Established in 1897, this bustling market is housed in a beautiful iron-and-glass structure, where visitors can browse vintage treasures, savor traditional empanadas, and soak up the lively atmosphere of one of Buenos Aires’ oldest neighborhoods.


1. Antique Stalls & Vintage Finds, with everything from old tango records and silverware to classic Argentine memorabilia, making it a paradise for collectors.

2. Local Food Stands, offering Argentine specialties like empanadas, choripán (chorizo sandwich), and fresh-baked medialunas (croissants).

3. El Preferido de San Telmo, a must-visit butcher shop and deli within the market, famous for its Argentine cold cuts, cheeses, and traditional picadas.

4. Tango & Street Performers, often found outside the market, where dancers and musicians bring the spirit of Buenos Aires to life.

5. Sunday Feria de San Telmo, an extension of the market into the surrounding streets, featuring hundreds of stalls selling handmade crafts, leather goods, and local artwork.

Visitor Tip: Visit on Sunday to experience the full San Telmo Feria, but arrive early to avoid crowds. For a sweet treat, try a dulce de leche-filled alfajor from one of the local vendors!

Photo: Jaeyoung Geoffrey Kang

San Telmo Market

Il Duomo di Milano, a symbol of Milan's grandeur, stands as a testament to Gothic architecture. Why should you visit?
1 - Dominating Milan's skyline, the Duomo's 135 spires, including the iconic Madonnina spire, create a stunning silhouette. The Madonnina, a polychrome sculpture created by Giuseppe Perego in 1762, rests atop the tallest spire at a breathtaking height of 108 meters. 
2 - Il Duomo is adorned with over 3,400 statues, the largest collection on any building globally. Notable is the statue of the Madonnina covered in 3,900 pieces of gold leaf. Inside, the vast interior can hold up to 40,000 visitors, with enormous stone pillars and niches housing a staggering 3,159 images. 

3 - The cathedral boasts fifty-five windows, including some of the largest stained glass in Europe, mainly created during the 15th and 16th centuries. The New Testament window, a masterpiece of Lombard craftsmanship, is particularly renowned. These windows display intricate designs and vibrant colors, illuminating biblical stories and adding an ethereal quality to the cathedral's interior​​​​.

4 - One of Il Duomo's unique features is its accessible rooftop. Visitors can ascend (by stairs or elevator) to this rooftop terrace, offering close-up views of the spires, pinnacles, and flying buttresses. This vantage point provides a panoramic view of Milan, allowing visitors to appreciate the cathedral's architectural complexity and the city's urban landscape​​​​.

5 - The Duomo's construction was initially a political and religious statement, reflecting Milan's centrality in the region. Over the centuries, it became a symbol of Milanese identity and resilience, surviving periods of foreign rule and even World War II bombardment. The cathedral has continually evolved, with its final elements completed in 1965, and still requires regular maintenance due to urban pollution​​​​.

Photo by Kristy Kravchenko

Il Duomo di Milano

Gràcia is one of Barcelona’s most vibrant and artistic neighborhoods, known for its bohemian vibe, colorful streets, and lively plazas. It’s a place where tradition meets creativity, making it a must-visit for those seeking a more authentic local experience.
1. The neighborhood’s main square, Plaça del Sol, is a popular spot for relaxing or enjoying tapas.
2. Streets are lined with independent boutiques, artisan shops, and vintage stores.
3. The area is home to unique architecture, including lesser-known works by Gaudí like Casa Vicens.
4. Cultural events and festivals, such as the Festa Major de Gràcia, bring the streets to life.
5. Small cafes and family-run restaurants serve traditional Catalan dishes with a creative twist.

Visitor Tip: Wander without a plan to fully experience the neighborhood’s charm and stumble upon hidden gems.

Gràcia Neighborhood

Nestled along the western coast of Sicily, the Marsala Salt Pans present a spectacular blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. This sprawling network of shallow salt pools, used for the traditional method of sea salt extraction, dates back to the Phoenicians. The Marsala Salt Pans are also a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Here are some things to look for when you visit:

1: Salt Harvesting Tradition: The salt pans showcase a centuries-old method of salt harvesting. Sea water is channeled into shallow ponds and left to evaporate, leaving behind high-quality sea salt. 
2: Eco-System and Wildlife: The area is a thriving ecosystem, attracting a diverse range of bird species, especially during the migration seasons. Flamingos, herons, and storks are common sights, making it a fantastic spot for birdwatching.
3: Windmills and Museums: Scattered across the salt pans are iconic windmills, once used to pump water and grind the harvested salt. Some of these windmills have been converted into museums, providing insights into the history and process of salt production. We also recommend visiting the Salt Museum of Saline Culcasi, located in the Nubia district, this museum is a vivid testament to the harmonious relationship between the sea and the land. 
4: Panoramic Views: The salt pans offer mesmerizing views, especially at sunset when the sky and water transform into a palette of vivid colors. The blend of nature and craftsmanship makes for an unforgettable sight.
5: Culinary Significance: Marsala salt is renowned for its quality and is a staple in Sicilian cuisine. You can purchase locally harvested salt, a unique souvenir representing the region's culinary heritage.
The Marsala Salt Pans are accessible throughout the year and are particularly enchanting during the late summer, which is the traditional salt-harvesting season. 

Photo by Jonas Renner

Marsala Salt Pans

Faro Old Town, nestled in the capital of Portugal's Algarve region, stands as a testament to a rich and varied history. This enchanting historic area, characterized by cobbled streets and a remarkable medieval cathedral, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. Here are the top highlights:

1. The Faro Cathedral, or Sé de Faro, is an architectural marvel originally built in the 13th century. It has since seen Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque influences, evident in its diverse structural elements. Inside, the cathedral impresses with its ornate gilded woodwork, azulejos, and a notable organ with intricate wood carvings. The cathedral also features a climbable tower providing panoramic views of the Old Town.

2. The Old Town's narrow, winding streets are a highlight in themselves. Lined with historic buildings, these alleys offer a serene walk through time, with each turn revealing aspects of Faro's Roman, Moorish, and Christian heritage.

3. Situated in a former convent, the museum showcases Faro’s history from its Roman origins through the Middle Ages to the present. Its collections include Roman mosaics, medieval artifacts, and a variety of religious art, providing a comprehensive look at the region's past.

4. Surrounding the Old Town are remnants of medieval walls and gates, including the Arco da Vila. These structures, once part of the city's defense system, now stand as historical landmarks, reflecting Faro's strategic importance over the centuries.

5. The Old Town is dotted with charming plazas, each offering a peaceful space to relax. These squares are surrounded by quaint cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Portuguese dishes.

Visiting Faro Old Town is a journey through time. The best periods for a visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is milder. 

Photo by KOBU Agency


Historic Gem: Faro Old Town

Nestled in the Atlas Mountains, Ouzoud Waterfalls is one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Plunging over 100 meters into a lush canyon, these multi-tiered falls create a stunning contrast between the red rock cliffs, green olive groves, and the misty waters below. A favorite destination for nature lovers and photographers, Ouzoud offers scenic hiking trails, boat rides, and the chance to spot playful Barbary macaques. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, this spectacular waterfall is a must-visit.

1. A hiking trail to the base of the falls winds through olive groves and offers breathtaking viewpoints, making it a rewarding trek with stunning photo opportunities.

2. A boat ride across the turquoise pool takes visitors close to the cascades, where the mist and roaring water create an exhilarating experience.

3. A colony of wild Barbary macaques inhabits the surrounding forest, often seen playing in the trees or approaching visitors in search of snacks.

4. A series of traditional cafés along the river provides a peaceful setting to enjoy a Moroccan meal while listening to the soothing sound of cascading water.

5. A rainbow effect in the mist appears on sunny days, adding to the magical atmosphere and making it a dream location for photographers.

Tips for Visiting
The best time to visit is spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) when the waterfalls are at their most impressive. Wearing sturdy shoes is recommended for the hike to the base. Arriving early in the morning helps avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Bringing small change is useful for tipping guides or purchasing local goods.

Photo: Henk Vrieselaar

Ouzoud Waterfalls

High above the ancient city of Fes, the Merenid Tombs offer a serene retreat that whispers tales of a bygone era. As the sun sets, casting a golden hue over the crumbling stones, visitors are transported back to the 14th century, where the echoes of the Merenid dynasty still resonate through the hills. Here are the top reasons to visit:

1: Start with a climb to the highest point of the tombs, where Fes unfolds below like a meticulously woven tapestry. This first impression is breathtaking, offering a panoramic embrace of the city and its storied past.

2: From this lofty perch, the entire Medina and surrounding hills are visible. It’s a spectacular viewpoint that offers a unique perspective on the city’s layout and the natural beauty that cradles it, perfect for reflection and photography.

3: Wander among the remnants of the tombs, where the Merenid rulers once lay. These ruins, though eroded by time, still hold a potent sense of history and power, offering a tangible connection to Morocco’s rich and tumultuous past.

4: If you can time it right, experience the transformative beauty of sunset here, where the fading light plays with the textures of the ancient stone, creating a dramatic and moving spectacle. This moment captures the essence of transience, with each sunset a reminder of the impermanence of greatness.

5: The Merenid Tombs provide a peaceful counterpoint to the vibrant energy of the Medina. This quiet, reflective space invites visitors to pause and contemplate the layers of history that have shaped this enchanting city.

For the most atmospheric experience, visit at sunset when the views are most dramatic and the weather more temperate. 

Echoes & Views: Merenid Tombs

A road trip through Spain is literally the best option for those looking for a local, less touristic experience. You can basically rent a car anywhere you want – we started in Barcelona, heading down the coast, and taking stops in Ebro Delta and Denia and other sleepy beach towns down the road. One of our highlights was the Spanish town of Cartagena – a historical hub with beautiful angled roads, traditional culture to explore (expect to be invited to some Cerveza by the locals), and history lessons about Phoenician traders, Roman soldiers, and Christian Reconquistas. If you have some days left, visiting Andalusia is a must. It's by far the most beautiful region in Spain and is known for its majestic horse breed, pristine beaches, hot weather, and super friendly culture. 
All in all, it took us two weeks to get down the coast – but you can make it in a week as well – though you might have less time to explore, sunbathe, and learn about the history of Spain

Off-the-beaten-path

Colombia

Shibuya Crossing, or Shibuya Scramble Crossing, is a popular scramble crossing in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan.[1] It is located in front of the Shibuya Station Hachikō exit and stops vehicles in all directions to allow pedestrians to inundate the entire intersection. The statue of Hachikō, between the station and the intersection, is a common meeting place and almost always crowded.

Three large TV screens mounted on nearby buildings overlook the crossing, as well as many advertising signs. The Starbucks store overlooking the crossing is also one of the busiest in the world. Its heavy traffic and inundation of advertising have led to it being compared to the Times Square intersection in New York City and Piccadilly Circus intersection in London.

Criss-crossing

Botswana

Meet the Lion. Landlord of the Okavango floodplains. The fearless prides of lions here are known to hunt buffaloes and elephants. They have large prides, with several young cubs. In the delta, as it is elsewhere, it’s all about power and opportunism.
🐃 | 🦁 | 🐘 
“The Okavango Delta is an astonishing sight: the great Okavango River, rather than flow towards the sea, flows inland, into the sands of the Kalahari.”- Alexander McCall Smith

The delta is clearly a fluke of nature, and the way to appreciate it best is from the air, especially in June and July when you can see the progress of the rain water flooding into the area and turning it into a lush paradise teeming with wildlife. 

It’s a very special place.

Lion vs. Buffalo

The National Garden in Athens is a lush green oasis in the heart of the bustling city, offering a serene escape for visitors and locals alike. Spanning 15.5 hectares near Syntagma Square, this historical garden was commissioned by Queen Amalia in the 19th century and features exotic plants, shaded pathways, and tranquil ponds. A haven for relaxation and exploration, it’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. 
1. Shaded Walkways wind through towering palm trees, eucalyptus, and other Mediterranean flora, making it a refreshing retreat from the city’s heat. 
2. Picturesque Ponds with ducks and turtles provide idyllic spots for rest or photography. 
3. Historical Monuments and remnants, including ancient columns and mosaics, are scattered throughout the garden, offering a glimpse into its rich past. 
4. A small botanical garden showcases exotic plants brought from around the world, reflecting Queen Amalia’s vision for a royal garden. 
5. The Children’s Library and Playground make it a family-friendly destination, while benches and open spaces are perfect for picnics or quiet moments. 
Visitor Tip: Plan to spend 1–2 hours exploring the garden at a leisurely pace. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal for nature lovers or anyone needing a relaxing break amidst sightseeing. The National Garden is best explored if you’re in the area, especially if you’re near Syntagma Square or the Zappeion Hall.
Photo: Salvador Aznar

Athens National Garden

China

The charming, well-preserved streetscapes of the heritage town in Old Lijiang Is perfect for getting lost  The winding streets lure you in - and shops selling Tiquanyin tea, handmade paper, musical drums, souvenirs and food vie for the attention of tourists. 

The Naxi people of Lijiang are proud, artistic and musically talented. It's a matriarchal society, one that I relate well to, and I enjoyed my interactions with the wise women I meet.

In the market square in Lijiang Old Town, groups of Naxi women get together to perform a few dances. There is no clear structure for their activity, and the women seem to be on their own schedule - some leave after a couple of dances, others hang around. Besides their traditional costume, what is common among them is their energy and zest for life.

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