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Argentina

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 2-hour walking tour explores the street art of Palermo Soho. The trendiest neighborhood in Buenos Aires, Palermo Soho is a both haven for street art and creativity and the epicenter of modern design. Walking around these cobblestone passages and dipping into independent boutiques and cafes is all part of a stay in the Argentine capital, which means that a rendezvous with these painted walls is a sure thing. Seeing them at Grace’s side lays bare the hidden stories of the murals and shares the stories of those who painted them—explaining the messages, motifs, and intentions of each installation. 

Grace also highlights the architectural identity of Palermo Soho and discusses the immigrants who were responsible for building much of the city and, without whom, these canvases and walls would not exist. The tour includes a relaxed stop for refreshments during which Grace will answer your questions and discuss how this art form has spread, sharing visuals to illustrate this dialogue.

This tour is unique as it examines the street art of Palermo Soho as a manifestation of the city's culture. Born and raised in Buenos Aires, Grace has spent over 15 years living and working overseas, giving her vast experience with multicultural groups. The combination of her two professions (Graphic Design and Tourism) led to her to specialize in street art, exploring its development and its relevance as an artistic and social manifestation in the modern-day world. 

Grace is well-connected to street artists, giving her a thorough comprehension of their techniques, motivations and stories. She divulges how street art can be a tool for raising awareness about crucial topics. Her experience is an open dialogue, and she invites her guests—you—to engage in a conversation about street art or other Argentine traditions that may have left an impression on you. You are welcome to share any anecdotes about the art of your own city with Grace as she loves learning about different cultures.

Street Art Walking Tour in Palermo Soho, Buenos Aires—exploring local and global street art history.

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

Let The Walls Speak

Street art walking tour in Palermo Soho, Buenos Aires.

Insights from a professional street art guide.

x1 coffee, tea, or soft beverage at a cafe in Palermo Soho.

Comfortable walking shoes.
Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses (essential in summer).
Curiosity!

Grace will meet you at the corner of Jorge Luis Borges Street and Pasaje Santa Rosa in Palermo Soho, Buenos Aires. She will await you at the entrance to Crónico Bar (next to the popular Plaza Serrano).

Scalabrini Ortiz is the closest metro station. An Uber/Cabify will drop you outside Crónico Bar. 

Grace Berlfein is a graphic designer and certified tour guide, with a diverse background in art, education, and urban culture. She combines her experience in design, production, and tourism to create immersive experiences in English, Spanish, and Hebrew.

Born in Buenos Aires, Grace lived 11 years in the USA and four years in Israel. In 2020, Grace created “The Power of Street Art”, an educational program on street art that she has presented in schools, cultural centers, and international platforms. In 2022, she volunteered at the Grenoble Street Art Fest (France), one of the most important urban art festivals in the world, connecting with street artists from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Her in-person and virtual art tours and experiences promote urban art as a tool for expression and transformation.

Morocco

This is a scenic day hike across the Kik Plateau, perched at approximately 1,800 meters in the High Atlas Mountains. The trek offers sweeping views over terraced farmland, Lake Takerkoust, and distant peaks, including Mount Toubkal. 

Starting from Asni, the route winds through traditional Berber villages built from earth and stone, where daily life continues much as it has for generations. Along the way, you’ll stop for tea with a local family and enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the plateau, surrounded by olive groves and open sky.

This hike is ideal for those who’ve already seen the classic Atlas mountain routes and want to explore the landscape further while engaging with the local communities. 

The walk takes 5-6 hours with stops and is best done in spring or autumn, when the plateau is green and the light is sharp. Though not technically difficult, there are some steady inclines and exposed terrain, so good walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.

The Kik Plateau offers an expansive, open landscape that contrasts with the steeper, more rugged trails of the central High Atlas. Its distinctive limestone outcroppings and gently undulating terrain give you a different kind of hiking experience—one defined by wide horizons and silence. From the plateau, you can take in panoramic views that stretch across the Haouz plains, Lake Takerkoust and the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas.

You’ll walk through traditional Berber villages where adobe homes blend into the hillsides, and farming continues as it has for generations. Because the area sees fewer visitors than other Atlas trails, you’ll engage more directly with both the landscape and the people who live here. Spring is especially vibrant, with wildflowers and green pastures creating a vivid contrast to the dry plains below.

Also, Kik Plateau's accessibility from Marrakech makes it ideal for those seeking a day hike that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion and tranquility.

Hiking Trek in Kik Plateau from Asni near Marrakesh with terrace farms & views over Atlas Mountains.

Across the Kik Plateau

Guided day hike across the Kik Plateau in the High Atlas Mountains.

Picnic lunch or home-cooked meal with a local Berber family.

Tea stop in a traditional village along the route.

Bottled water provided throughout the day.

All gratuities for guides and local hosts included.

Hotel pickup included from nearby locations.

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 exact meeting point in Asni will be confirmed by Ahmed after the booking via Chat. 

The excursion begins in Asni, about 45 minutes 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.

Türkiye

Step into a Kurdish family home in Istanbul for an intimate Dengbej storytelling and dinner experience. Dengbej is a traditional Kurdish music style where singers recount epic tales of history, love, and loss using only their voices in an a cappella-style performance. You’ll start with a neighborhood walk, getting to know the local Kurdish community, before gathering around the family table for a home-cooked Kurdish dinner, prepared by the host’s mother.

As you tuck into your meal, a professional singer will perform a variety of Dengbej songs that convey the struggles and resilience of the Kurdish people, reflecting their historical, social, and cultural experiences. Once forbidden during periods of repression in Turkey, Dengbej has survived through clandestine performances and oral transmission. This experience allows you to delve into the origins and nuances of this vibrant art form while hearing the stories of a Kurdish family based in Istanbul.

This experience offers a rare chance to engage with Dengbej storytelling in a private Kurdish home, surrounded by warmth and hospitality. Unlike staged performances, this is an intimate gathering where songs are woven into personal stories. Your host, Baver, and his family will welcome you into their home, where professional Dengbej singer Xalide, from a lineage of Dengbej singers, brings this tradition to life.

Dengbej is one of the oldest forms of storytelling, dating back thousands of years. Despite centuries of suppression, it remains a vital record of Kurdish history and identity. Each song recounts tales of love, battles, and farewells, blending spoken word and melody. To add to the experience, Baver may sometimes accompany the singer with his Saz, a traditional string instrument from Turkey. To complete the evening, Baver’s mother will prepare a traditional Kurdish dinner, so guests can hear the stories of Kurdish culture but also taste its rich culinary heritage.

Kurdish Dengbej storytelling and home-cooked dinner in a local Istanbul home with traditional music.

Stories from a Kurdish Family

A short walk through the host’s neighborhood.

Intimate Dengbej music session with Xalide.

Short cooking workshop.

Homecooked Kurdish meal eaten with the family.

We recommend bringing a camera to capture the unique performance, comfortable clothing, and a notebook to record your thoughts.

This experience is located in the Beşiktaş district of Istanbul near the Yıldız metro station. After booking please message Baver via Fernwayer chat for details on the meeting point.

This experience is hosted by Barış Baver and his Kurdish family, who warmly welcome guests into their home for an evening of storytelling, music, and food. Baver, an entrepreneur and cultural curator, is passionate about preserving Turkish and Kurdish traditions. He grew up immersed in Kurdish heritage, learning from his mother’s culinary wisdom and local traditions. His home has become a space where travelers can experience authentic Kurdish hospitality, sharing meals, stories, and culture in an intimate setting.

As part of this experience, Baver and his family invite Xalide, a professionally trained Dengbej singer from a lineage of performers, to bring this rare storytelling tradition to life. She will guide you through the meaning behind each song—whether a tale of love, exile, or celebration—offering insight into this ancient oral art. Paired with a home-cooked Kurdish dinner prepared by Baver’s mother, this is a deeply personal and immersive cultural experience unlike any other.

Mexico

This is a guided after-dark walk and drive through Guadalajara’s historic center to see landmarks like the Cathedral, Teatro Degollado, and Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres—all beautifully illuminated. Streetlights, glowing facades, and decorative fountains add to the evening’s cinematic mood. A certified local guide, who knows each street well, leads the route, sharing stories that connect architecture with history, and the city’s past with the present.

The tour includes a stop at Plaza de los Mariachis, where musicians regularly gather and play. You’ll have time to listen, take photos, grab a drink, and take in one of Jalisco’s most recognized musical traditions.

This tour is designed for travelers who want to see the city under a different light, and experience Guadalajara as it’s lived at night. The pace is relaxed, and the route avoids congested or unsafe areas. Photographers should pack light and discreet: handheld gear only, ISO up, no tripods. 

The historic center of Guadalajara transforms after dark—less crowded, more atmospheric, and alive in a different way. Navigating these streets at night requires local knowledge. Anwar, your guide, grew up in the city, and has led numerous guests through these areas and knows which routes are engaging and safe after sunset. His presence allows travelers to focus on the experience without concern.

Anwar adapts his route based on your energy, interests, and the city's happenings that evening. His commentary connects the sights to broader themes like urban development, public space, and cultural identity, discussing both the city's history and its current dynamics.

The mariachi plaza is a cultural fixture where musicians regularly gather, offering an authentic experience. This walk provides space for observation, questions, and candid photos. It's designed for travelers seeking depth and a genuine sense of the city after dark.

After-Dark Tour of Guadalajara’s historic center with illuminated facades and live mariachi music.

Lights, Sound, Guadalajara

Evening walking and driving tour of Guadalajara’s historic center with a certified local guide.

Stops at key illuminated landmarks including the Cathedral and Teatro Degollado.

Cultural storytelling connecting architecture, history, and local traditions.

Visit to Plaza de los Mariachis with time to enjoy live music.

One drink included during the stop.

Private transportation provided throughout the tour.

Camera in a discreet bag.
Comfortable walking shoes. 

Anwar will pick you up directly from your accommodation in Guadalajara and return you there at the end of the day. After booking, you’ll be able to message him through Fernwayer Chat to share your address.

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.

Italy

This 3.5-hour private tour unveils Venice's spiritual and artisanal treasures, beginning with a 30-minute boat ride from Venice to San Francesco del Deserto. Arriving by 9 AM, you'll explore this secluded island, home to a Franciscan monastery established in 1228. Get insights into their contemplative lifestyle and the island's historical significance. Capture photographs of the landscapes and ancient architecture, immersing yourself in the island's peaceful ambiance: it's one of the most serene places you'll visit.

Following this, a short boat ride brings you to Murano, renowned for its glassmaking heritage. Here, you'll gain exclusive access to a family-owned glass factory, where master artisans demonstrate the intricate process of transforming molten glass into delicate artworks. Engage with the craftspeople, learn about their time-honored techniques, and witness firsthand the creation of Murano's famed glass pieces. After this immersive experience, you'll return to Venice by boat.

You’ll get exclusive access to two of the Venice Lagoon’s hidden gems. At San Francesco del Deserto, you’ll interact with monks and gain rare insight into monastic life on an island that is often overlooked by travelers. The monastery’s serene gardens and ancient architecture offer a peaceful retreat, reflection and a deeper connection to Venice’s spiritual heritage.

In Murano, you’ll visit a family-run glass factory with strong connections to your guide, providing an intimate look into the island’s legendary glassmaking tradition. Watching artisans transform molten glass into exquisite art is an authentic experience that showcases their remarkable skill and dedication. The enduring legacy of Venetian craftsmanship comes alive as you engage with these masters and learn the stories behind their creations.

Framed by the waters of Venice Lagoon, this private tour is a rare combination of artistry, spirituality, and tranquility, unveiling a side of Venice few travelers ever experience. 

Boat Tour in Venice Lagoon, discovering peaceful San Francesco del Deserto and Murano's glass craft.

The Artisans and the Monks

Guided private boat tour in a vintage motorboat. 

Advance reservation and access to the monastery.

Exclusive glassblowing demonstration at a family-run Murano factory.

Coffee and pastry in Murano.

Note: Children under 6 years join free, provided the minimum tour cost is met. Please inform Davide in advance.

Non-slip footwear for safety on the boat.
A camera to capture the stunning scenery and unique moments.
A warm layer for the cooler evening air.

**For your safety, this tour may be canceled in bad weather. Davide will message you via Chat if any slight time adjustments are needed due to tides or weather. 

This tour starts and ends in Venice. After booking, contact Davide via Chat to confirm pickup: typically at a vaporetto stand close to your hotel if you're staying in Venice, or a pre-agreed point.

A passionate and experienced boatman and guide - born and raised in Venice, Davide has an extensive knowledge of the city’s lagoons, which he acquired through his family’s fishing background and his own experiences sailing around on a vintage motorboat. This cultural insight, along with Davide’s studies in anthropology and languages, make his tours an unforgettable immersive experience.

Portugal

This four-hour walking and sketching experience in Lisbon offers a unique way to explore the soul of the Portuguese capital with a passionate local artist. The tour requires no prior experience or proven skills in sketching or drawing. 

Starting at Largo do Rato and beginning with the Mãe d’Água, a crucial part of the city’s 18th-century water distribution system, you'll follow the path of an ancient water gallery along Rua da Escola Politécnica. On the way, you’ll pass by a historic museum and local square where you can take a break and sketch the serene surroundings. 

The journey continues to Chiado, a famous literary and artistic neighborhood, taking you inside some of the city’s top art supply shops. This experience encourages you to slow down, absorb, and deeply connect with the landscape through sketching. Unlike photographs, sketching fosters attentive observation, allowing you to interact with the environment around you on a more intimate level.

Metro Station: Rato
Buses and Trams: 706, 709, 720, 727, 738, 758, 773, 774, 24E.

What sets this experience apart is the combination of artistic expression and historical exploration. Lisbon is famed for its picturesque miradouros, but this journey reveals lesser-known viewpoints that escape the usual tourist crowds. The focus on sketching transforms the adventure from mere sightseeing to an immersive engagement with the city's essence. 

Led by Ana Isabel Ramos, a seasoned designer and illustrator, you'll gain insights into Lisbon’s history and architecture while developing your sketching skills. Ana's deep connection to the city and her unique perspective as a local who has lived abroad enriches the experience with personal anecdotes and expert guidance. 

This exploration is not just about seeing Lisbon but about experiencing its soul through the meditative practice of sketching, offering a rare, intimate and memorable way to connect with the city's vibrant culture and scenic beauty.

Art Tour in Lisbon to sketch secret viewpoints on a family-friendly walk with Chiado art shop stops.

This four-hour walking and sketching experience in Lisbon offers a unique way to explore the soul of the Portuguese capital with a passionate local artist. 

Starting at Largo do Rato and beginning with the Mãe d’Água, a crucial part of the city’s 18th-century water distribution system, you'll follow the path of an ancient water gallery along Rua da Escola Politécnica. On the way, you’ll pass by a historic museum and local square where you can take a break and sketch the serene surroundings. 

The journey continues to Chiado, a famous literary and artistic neighborhood, taking you inside some of the city’s top art supply shops. This experience encourages you to slow down, absorb, and deeply connect with the landscape through sketching. Unlike photographs, sketching fosters attentive observation, allowing you to interact with the environment around you on a more intimate level.

Sketching Secret Viewpoints

Guided walking tour through Lisbon with historical insights.

Sketching sessions at scenic viewpoints along the route.

Visit to the Mãe d’Água reservoir.

Visit to the Fine Arts School when accessible.

Stop at a historic museum and local square for sketching.

Visit to a local art supply store in Chiado.

Expert guidance from a professional illustrator.

Sketchbooks, pens & other art supplies provided.

** Note: Free participation for children under 12 years. Inform Ana via chat after booking.

Comfortable walking shoes
Weather-appropriate clothing
Hat
Water bottle
Optional: A sketchbook and some art supplies if you have them (a sketchbook and some art supplies are included in the tour.)


We will meet in front of the headquarters of Partido Socialista at Largo do Rato, 2, Lisbon. 

Metro Station: Rato
Buses and Trams: 706, 709, 720, 727, 738, 758, 773, 774, 24E.

Ana Isabel Ramos is a designer, illustrator, artist, and children’s book author living in Lisbon, Portugal. A native of this city, Ana has made Lisbon her home after living on three different continents. Having first-hand experience of being a foreigner when living abroad, Ana knows how long it can take to get to know a new place and believes sketching is a shortcut to it.

She has been sketching all her life and as a daily practice since the beginning of 2021. This consistent routine has helped change her relationship with time and space. She believes sketching slows everything down and affords a different connection with the people around us and the place we’re at.

When she’s not taking you to the best spots in Lisbon to sketch, she works with women to help them connect to their inner wisdom and creativity to get clarity and live life more fully, embracing their artistic side. In 2024, she published her first children’s book “Livro do Não”, which she illustrated with embroidery.

Just outside Oaxaca city is a community called San Andres Huayapam, that is famed as the birthplace of tejate. This thoughtfully curated experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with this tradition firsthand. You’ll explore the area where it was founded, peruse local murals, plus meet a traditional tejatera who will explain the process, ingredients and the history of this nutritious drink.

This pre-Hispanic libation was used in sowing and harvesting ceremonies and also consumed by Zapotec kings. It’s made from corn, cacao, flor de rosita, toasted mamey pits, and water in a massive clay pot. It’s traditionally served in a painted bowl known as a jícara.

We’ll then enjoy fresh tejate and a snack with this tejatera in her home. Finally, we’ll walk to a restaurant for a set sampler meal of traditional delicacies. This venue is located in the courtyard of another local family home, and sits under a canopy of branches, which are key to producing the blooms in the tejate process.

While the host has lived in Oaxaca for a decade, five of those years have been spent in this Zapotec community. Here, she has forged meaningful connections with locals and can speak to how the town voluntarily operates under Indigenous usos y costumbres law, as well as the annual tejate festival. That said, the specifics of this tradition will be shared by an expert local who has inherited her skills from a long line of tejate makers.

Located roughly 20 minutes from Oaxaca de Juárez, this scenic pueblo offers a glimpse of traditional village life—locals working the fields, burros carrying firewood, and adobe makers crafting custom earthen bricks. An especially popular destination for Oaxacans on weekends, many travel here to sample tejate, visit nearby lakes, and enjoy gourmet fare in family-run restaurants. It’s an authentic window into everyday life in this stunning region of southern Mexico.

Food Tour from Oaxaca to San Andrés Huayapam: explore traditional tejate & food with Zapotec hosts.

Where Tejate Was Born

Guided walking tour of local murals and sites in San Andrés Huayapam.

Visit with a traditional tejatera to learn about tejate history and preparation.

Fresh tejate and snack served in the tejatera’s home.

Set sampler meal of Oaxacan delicacies in a family courtyard.

One beer or one agua fresca included with the meal.

Experience hosted in homes central to tejate tradition.


We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, water, and your camera or phone, if you'd like to take photos. 

Pick up and drop off will be in front of the Italian Coffee Company at Lic Manuel Ruiz 300A, Reforma, 68050, Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca, Mexico. The host will be there 15 minutes before the departure time and participants will leave for the trip with them at the stated time on the page. This transit time is included in the total listed hours on the experience. 

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.

Spain

Take a private journey through Cádiz and immerse yourself in its vibrant cultural and culinary heritage. With a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll uncover the city’s ancient history as you wander through its historic center, exploring the traces left by the many civilizations that have shaped Cádiz over the centuries.

Step into one of the city’s oldest taverns, where the character and traditions of Cádiz come alive. Then, climb a historic lookout tower for breathtaking views of the city’s unique charm. End your day with a tapas experience at an exclusive tavern, where you’ll enjoy local wines and dishes that capture the essence of Cádiz’s gastronomy. This blend of history, food, and personal storytelling promises an unforgettable and authentic experience.

This experience offers an intimate and personal connection to Cádiz, guided by a local expert whose engaging storytelling brings the city’s rich history and vibrant traditions to life. Far from the ordinary, this journey immerses you in the true essence of Cádiz with a warm and conversational approach.

Savor the region’s authentic flavors during a private tapas tasting in a cozy, welcoming tavern. Take in stunning panoramic views from a historic lookout tower, offering a unique perspective on the city’s beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone looking to rediscover Cádiz, this tour is perfect for anyone seeking a glimpse of the city’s charm in a short time. Even those familiar with Cádiz will find fresh insights and deeper connections through this thoughtfully curated experience.

With its seamless blend of history, gastronomy, and local character, this journey promises to leave you with lasting memories of Cádiz.

Walking Tour of Cádiz with historic sites, lookout views, local taverns & guided tapas experience.

The Stories of Cádiz

Private guided walking tour of Cádiz’s historic center with a local expert.

Visit to one of the city’s oldest taverns to experience local tradition.

Access to a historic lookout tower with panoramic city views.

Tapas lunch with regional wines at an exclusive tavern.

Personal storytelling and cultural insights throughout the experience.

Special surprise souvenirs to take home.

Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and dress appropriately for the season. In summer, expect hot weather and come prepared with a good hat and lightweight clothing. In winter, bring a coat. In spring and autumn, a trench coat will suffice. Before your visit, we will provide more detailed clothing recommendations.

In the town hall square (Plaza de San Juan de Dios, 1, Cádiz)

You will be welcomed by an expert in local and provincial history, who will guide you with their knowledge. The establishments and places you visit will be warm and welcoming. Their staff will be delighted to host you, address any questions or concerns, and provide detailed explanations in a friendly and authentic style. You can be assured of an engaging experience enriched with genuine local insights and details.

Closer to the date, Maria José will introduce you to your guide and share their contact details, if needed.

Scattered across Rome’s buildings, small street shrines known as Madonnelle depict the Madonna in modest frames of marble, terracotta, mosaic, oil or fresco. Once numbering in the thousands, around 500 remain today. Many include handcrafted frames or painted details—subtle traces of the artisans and caretakers who shaped the city’s spiritual landscape.

Their origins trace back to ancient Rome’s Lares Compitales—guardian spirits of crossroads—later transformed through Marian devotion into symbols of everyday faith. For centuries, locals kept them lit with candles or lanterns, maintaining them as acts of care and protection. Before modern streetlights, they lit the city’s darker corners, blending function and belief.

These shrines are more than historical detail. They are silent witnesses to Rome’s evolution—markers of intimate devotion, persistence, and community. Embedded in walls and corners, they reflect how faith and daily life remain quietly intertwined in the fabric of the city.

This walk invites you to engage with a centuries-old tradition still alive in the streets of Rome. The Madonnelle are more than religious symbols—they reflect devotion expressed through public care and enduring craftsmanship. These shrines reveal the layering of belief, design, and maintenance—how ordinary Romans shaped sacred space with skill, intention, and everyday acts of devotion.

Created in a range of styles and materials, each shrine holds clues to Rome’s visual language, spiritual habits, and social history. For generations, locals maintained them—cleaning, lighting, and protecting these small works as part of daily life.

Isabella, a licensed guide and art historian, reveals how these quiet images are woven into the city’s structure. Her attention to placement, form, and historical context brings out details most people overlook. You’ll walk away with a deeper sense of how beauty, belief, and care still shape the streets of Rome.

Walking Tour in Rome discovering Madonnelle and the untold stories carved into its street corners.

Silent Guardians of Rome

Walking tour focused on Rome’s Madonnelle, the city’s small street shrines dedicated to the Madonna. 

Historical and cultural interpretation with Isabella, a licensed art historian and certified guide.

Italian coffee at a local café.

You'll meet Isabella at the bottom of the Spanish Steps, in Piazza di Spagna.

Isabella Calidonna is an art historian with a PhD in Art History, a licensed tour guide, and a certified running coach, currently studying to become an archaeologist. Her mission is to help people discover the city from a new perspective through gentle movement, discovery, and immersing oneself in Rome’s timeless beauty.

Experience an exclusive, immersive journey in Madrid's flamenco district, led by a renowned contemporary bailaora (flamenco artist). Your adventure begins in an ancient market building, housing Spain’s oldest Flamenco Academy. Explore specialized ateliers where artisans meticulously craft flamenco costumes and accessories, often frequented by artists selecting their next performance attire.

The experience continues in the academy’s classrooms with a masterclass in flamenco clapping, so you get a feel of flamenco's unique rhythms. This is followed by a private dance performance by your esteemed, talented host, alongside a celebrated guitarist and singer, showing you the fluid grace and intense emotion of flamenco.

The tour concludes with a gourmet tapas session. This special tour contributes towards sustaining the interest in the flamenco academy and connects you to the evolving influences of Flamenco, its deep emotional resonance and enduring cultural significance

The location of the tour is easily accessible by taxi or Uber from any where in Madrid. Exact meeting point will be shared by Reyes after you book the tour. 

The highlight of this tour is the extraordinary opportunity to spend exclusive time with a celebrated flamenco artist, internationally renowned and a prominent figure at International Flamenco Festivals. Your host provides unique insights into the cultural landmarks and personal stories that define the local flamenco community, offering an in-depth exploration of flamenco as a vibrant part of Madrid's cultural heritage.

You will gain access to the Flamenco Academy through the eyes of your host, where traditional artistry blends with contemporary innovation in a space steeped in the history of dance. The academy’s Andalusian Moorish architecture further enhances this multisensory experience, immersing you in a setting that resonates with the soul of flamenco.

Interactive elements, such as mastering flamenco claps and tasting gourmet tapas, immerse you in the vibrant rhythms and flavors of the art form, connecting you to the broader tapestry of Spanish heritage. 

Flamenco Tour in Madrid with artist-led academy visit, clapping class, private performance & tapas.

12-2
Monday-Friday
Visit the ateliers, then the academy, followed by tapas

Castiza Flamenca

Rare, private flamenco performance with live music by a renowned bailaora, guitarist, and singer. 

Guided visit to Spain’s oldest Flamenco Academy and artisan ateliers. 

Masterclass in flamenco clapping to learn traditional rhythms. 

Gourmet tapas and wine session to conclude the experience. 

A cultural immersion supporting local artists and flamenco heritage.

** Note: This is a fixed price experience of €3160 for up to 8 people.

Comfortable footwear, camera and lots of enthusiasm. 

After you book, chat with Reyes for details of the exact meeting point. You will be able to reach the meeting point by walk or taxi/Uber.  

The host is a celebrated flamenco dancer from Madrid, trained at the prestigious Royal Conservatory of Dance and the Centro de Danza Española y Flamenco Amor de Dios. Her illustrious career includes collaborations with leading artists and performances at major global festivals and esteemed tablaos. She leads her own flamenco company, featuring skilled singers and guitarists.

Known for her dynamic presence and deep connection to flamenco's traditional roots, she infuses each performance with passion and authenticity. Her style merges traditional and modern flamenco, incorporating live music and vibrant dances like the "snails," farruca, and rumbas of the 1980s Madrid Movida, capturing the essence of Madrid’s cultural heritage.

As a spontaneous and expressive artist, she guides audiences on an evocative journey through Madrid’s rich cultural tapestry. Her innovative narrative style and modern insights into flamenco make her an exceptional guide. 

This 7-day itinerary offers a deep and personal exploration of Lisbon and its surrounding landscapes—curated by architect, artist, and local guide Tiago Miranda Neiva. You’ll move between Lisbon, Mafra, Ericeira, Setúbal, Évora, and Alqueva, using Lisbon as your hub for the first five days before transitioning into the open spaces of Alentejo. Each experience reflects Tiago’s belief that Lisbon—and Portugal more broadly—reveals its truth only when you engage with it slowly, sensitively, and through all your senses.
✧ In Lisbon, you’ll begin with immersive walking tours of the historic center and the Alfama district, including a soulful evening of live Fado. You’ll explore lush botanical gardens, secret city vantage points, and meet with local elders to hear lived histories.
✧ In the Setúbal Peninsula, you’ll sip and savor the natural and culinary abundance of the region, from coastal wines to Arrábida’s dramatic cliffs.
✧ In Ericeira and Mafra, the focus shifts to surf, light, and rhythm—along with time to admire the monumental beauty of Mafra Palace.
✧ The final days take you east, into Évora, Monsaraz, and Alqueva—where you’ll find silence, sweeping views, and stories rooted in the Alentejo earth.
This itinerary balances movement and stillness, city and countryside, design and tradition. It's a route shaped not only by places, but by one person's deep relationship to them.
𝘛𝘪𝘢𝘨𝘰 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢 𝘕𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘢 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘣𝘰𝘯-𝘣𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦-𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘍𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺. 𝘏𝘦 𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦, 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘲𝘶𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘣𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘧𝘰𝘤𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴 𝘰𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘥. 𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘢 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘺.
When asked about his love for Lisbon, Tiago’s enthusiasm is immediate: “I love my city! I really love the historic center of Lisbon!” Though he didn’t always feel that way. Growing up on the city’s outskirts, it wasn’t until returning after time abroad that he saw it anew. “It was as a young and independent adult with an arts and architecture degree, and with the enthusiasm to explore — that I realized how beautiful, diverse, and interesting my city is.”
For Tiago, connecting with a culture means full immersion. “You have to experience it with open eyes, heart, and mind,” he says. That means talking to locals, walking unfamiliar routes, listening more than looking. “Lisbon isn’t just to be seen, but touched, smelled, and tasted.” It’s not a checklist—it’s a presence.
He also names two challenges: First, Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods are deeply distinct—each like its own mini-city. “Lisbon is multidimensional. It cannot—and should not—be rushed.” Second, mass tourism threatens the local character he cherishes. Responsible travel, he says, is essential to preserve the culture.
As tourism evolves, Tiago points toward Lisbon’s under-known strengths. “Gastronomy, street art, tiles, contemporary architecture… there’s so much more to discover!”
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.

Lisbon and the Roads Out

7-day itinerary in Portugal exploring history & culture in Lisbon, Mafra, Ericeira, Setúbal, Évora.

United States

Mexico City unfolds in layers, where murals and markets, pyramids and plazas reveal both its ancient roots and its dynamic present. This three-day journey blends guided encounters with artists, historians, and food experts, while leaving space to take in the rhythm of the neighborhoods. It is designed for travelers who want to understand the city through its art, flavors, and living culture, not just to see its landmarks.
DAY 1 – MURALS AND MEXICAN FLAVORS | Begin your journey with a guided tour of Mexico City’s revolutionary murals, where each wall tells the story of politics, identity, and art in motion. The works of Rivera, Orozco, and Siqueiros set the stage for a day immersed in color and meaning. After a pause in the afternoon, step into a hands-on food workshop where you learn the process of making tortillas, taste tacos hot off the griddle, and sip mezcal while hearing about its traditions. It is a full day that balances art with flavor, giving you a first taste of Mexico City’s creative pulse.
DAY 2 – FRIDA, DIEGO AND UNAM | Spend the day in Coyoacán with a guided cultural tour devoted to Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. Visit their iconic houses and museums, and walk through the leafy streets that shaped their art and daily lives. In the late afternoon, continue to the campus of UNAM, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a local photographer as guide, you will discover the vast murals that adorn its buildings, and capture the mix of modernist architecture, student life, and quiet corners that make this campus a city of its own. The day moves from intimate artistic legacies to monumental spaces of learning.
DAY 3 – TEOTIHUACAN AND POLANQUITO | The final day takes you out of the city on a guided day trip to Teotihuacan, where the pyramids of the Sun and Moon rise against the horizon. Walking alongside a historian, you will uncover the stories of this ancient site and imagine the scale of life in the first great city of the Americas. Returning to Mexico City, the evening is a celebration of modern flavors in Polanco. A guided food tour introduces you to elegant streets, neighborhood history, and a sequence of dishes that bring the day to a satisfying close. It is the perfect balance of past and present, ending the journey with both wonder and warmth.
WHERE TO STAY IN MEXICO CITY | Centro Histórico offers a classic stay close to the Zócalo and major landmarks, surrounded by history at every turn. Roma and Condesa bring a creative rhythm with leafy streets, cafés, and nightlife that feel distinctly local. Polanco is refined and central, with museums, dining, and parks at your doorstep. Each neighborhood offers its own atmosphere, all well connected for exploring the city.
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.

Mexico City Roots and Stories

3 days in Mexico City reveal murals, Frida and Diego, Teotihuacan, and food tours across the city.

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.

Hub Cities: Venice, Florence, Rome

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

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

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

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

Italy: Canals to Colosseum

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

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.

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.

A city that moves through stories as much as streets, Buenos Aires invites travelers into its layered identity—through architecture, ritual, and rhythm. This three-day journey is designed for those who want more than a snapshot, weaving together curated experiences that unfold the city’s emotional and historical heart. From grand avenues and tango classes to quiet moments of mate and cultural evenings, each day offers a full immersion into the spirit of the Argentine capital.
DAY 1 – LANDMARKS AND FIRST STEPS | Begin with a guided city tour by car through Recoleta, San Telmo, and the Historic Quarter. Your host brings to life both the architecture and the lesser-known stories behind the plazas, statues, and neighborhoods that shaped the city. After a midday break, head to a tango studio for a class with a local dancer. Learn the basic steps, sip mate or wine, and connect to the emotional roots of this iconic movement.
DAY 2 – POLITICS, RITUAL, AND THEATER | Spend the morning on a walking tour exploring the city’s political legacy through Recoleta Cemetery, public monuments, and symbols of Peronism. In the afternoon, join a local host for a mate tasting session in her home, where you’ll prepare and share the traditional drink while learning its meaning in Argentine daily life. The day ends on Avenida Corrientes, where a cultural walk takes you through the city’s theater district, with bookstores, street food, and stories of the stage.
DAY 3 – FLAVOR AND EXPRESSION | A guided food tour leads you through the tastes of Palermo Soho, with stops for empanadas, choripán, asado, and sweet bites along the way. The experience weaves together local flavor and neighborhood energy, perfect for a slower-paced final day. In the early evening, step inside a historic tango house in San Telmo for a unique photography experience. Lights, shadows, and movement tell their own story as you enjoy a dinner immersed in the visual world of tango.
WHERE TO STAY IN BUENOS AIRES | Base yourself in Palermo Soho for stylish boutique hotels, creative energy, and easy access to the day’s starting points. Recoleta offers a quieter pace and tree-lined elegance, with cafés, architecture, and green spaces ideal for walking. Both neighborhoods work well for this itinerary, and each gives you a distinct view of the city’s 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.

Icons to Stage in Buenos Aires

3 days in Buenos Aires with Argentina’s icons, mate rituals, tango nights, and local flavors.

This Milan itinerary is sleek, elegant, and curated — the perfect expression of Milanese sophistication across architecture, design, fashion, and food. It’s about Milan as it’s truly lived: designed, composed, and always in conversation with its past and future.

Milan is precision with personality—a city where modern lines meet Renaissance texture, and where fashion, architecture, and food are expressions of the same pursuit: style with substance. This three-day itinerary moves through that balance with intent, beginning in the geometry and vision of Gio Ponti’s architectural legacy. From the Pirelli Tower to lesser-known gems, the morning reveals how Milan’s skyline was shaped not just by ambition, but by design thinking.

The afternoon shifts to the Navigli District—Leonardo da Vinci’s hand in its canals, but today, the flow belongs to artists, gallery owners, and baristas. You’ll wander cobbled paths, stop for an aperitivo, and settle into a slow dinner at Osteria Conchetta, where Milanese cuisine is served without pretense but full of detail.

Day two leaves the city for the lakes. A curated visit to Lake Como weaves together water, stone, and stillness. At Villa del Balbianello and through the towns of Como and Bellagio, nature is never separate from design—it’s framed by it. This isn’t just sightseeing; it’s about atmosphere. Scale, silence, villas on cliffs. Beauty at rest.

On your final day, the focus returns to Milan with a walk through Brera. Here, art meets appetite—small galleries, curated boutiques, and a lunch scene that respects tradition while playing with it. The afternoon brings you to Castello Sforzesco and its layered museums, followed by a pause in Sempione Park—green space as counterbalance. And finally: dinner at Tartufotto, where truffle meets elegance in the heart of the city.

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.

Milan in Form and Flair

3-day itinerary in Milan with Gio Ponti's landmarks, Lake Como villas, Brera art, truffle-laced food

From the iconic Dubrovnik walls to the calm waters of Banje Beach, this three-day journey invites you to explore the city’s rich heritage and coastal beauty at your own pace. Walk through centuries of history, taste traditional Croatian food in atmospheric Old Town restaurants, and end your days with a golden boat ride in Dubrovnik’s shimmering bay.

DAY 1 – CITY WALLS AND FORTRESS | Begin your trip with a morning walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls. This 1.2-mile loop offers sweeping views over rooftops and sea, with countless photo moments along the way. For lunch, head to Proto Fish in the Old Town, known for its elegant terrace and fresh Adriatic seafood. In the afternoon, visit War Photo Limited, a striking gallery that documents human conflict through powerful photography. Continue to Lovrijenac Fortress, perched just outside the city walls, where stone stairs lead to panoramic views and centuries of defense history. In the evening, join a culinary walking tour led by locals. You’ll taste traditional dishes, hear family stories, and explore the city’s flavors through its oldest streets.

DAY 2 – BEACH, MOUNTAIN, AND SEA | Spend the morning at Banje Beach, just outside the Old Town gates. Swim in clear water, relax with a book, or simply take in the view of the city rising above the bay. After a midday break, make your way to Mount Srđ. Whether you hike or take the cable car, the view from the top is unforgettable, with wide horizons stretching over Dubrovnik and the coast. As the sun begins to set, step aboard a boat for a sunset cruise along the shoreline. The city glows behind you as the boat glides past islands and cliffs, closing the day on the water.

DAY 3 – MONASTIC AND BAROQUE HERITAGE | Start your day at the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries, two of Dubrovnik’s most historic sanctuaries. These calm, beautiful places are filled with carved cloisters, quiet chapels, and traces of centuries past. For lunch, walk to Konoba Kopun, a small square near the Jesuit steps where traditional Dalmatian recipes are served with care. In the afternoon, explore Dubrovnik Cathedral, a baroque landmark filled with light, then visit the Rector’s Palace, once the seat of power in the Republic of Ragusa. As your final experience, leave the city behind and visit Trsteno, a coastal village known for its historic gardens. A guided walk and picnic offer a quiet, green farewell to your time in Dubrovnik.

WHERE TO STAY IN DUBROVNIK | If you want to be in the heart of it all, stay inside the Old Town. It’s full of charm but also crowds and stairs. For more space and sea views, choose neighborhoods like Ploče or Lapad just outside the walls. Both offer easy access while giving you a peaceful place to rest.

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.

Stone, Sea, Story in Dubrovnik

3 days in Dubrovnik with Old Town walks, exploring Fort Lovrijenac, Croatian food, and Banje Beach.

Even in just one day, Buenos Aires leaves an impression that lingers. With the right rhythm, it’s possible to feel the city’s contradictions and connections—its political weight, its everyday rituals, and its emotional expression through dance. This tightly curated journey is for travelers passing through, but curious enough to look deeper. In just a few hours, you’ll move from monuments to mate to milonga—each one revealing a different heartbeat of Argentina.

DAY 1 – POLITICS, MATE, AND TANGO | Begin with a guided walk through Recoleta and surrounding landmarks, led by a local historian who traces Argentina’s story through symbols of power, resistance, and memory. In the afternoon, sit down in a quiet home for a mate ritual—learning the codes of hospitality, preparation, and connection that define Argentine daily life. As evening falls, step into a neighborhood milonga, where a tango dancer guides you through the unspoken rules, the music, and the beauty of a tradition that still pulses through the city. It’s a single day—but one that distills the emotion, tension, and grace of Buenos Aires.

WHERE TO STAY IN BUENOS AIRES | Choose Recoleta for a graceful start close to monuments and morning walks, or Palermo for an energetic finish and late-night 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.

One Day in Buenos Aires

Fernwayer’s perfect one day in Buenos Aires blends politics, mate tradition, and tango after dark.

Living the Pulse of Porto means tasting its traditions, stepping inside centuries-old landmarks, and letting the Douro set the rhythm of your days. In three days you’ll move from taverns filled with petiscos to valley vineyards, riverside boat decks, and cathedral steps that have anchored the city for generations. Designed for travelers who want immersion over checklists, this journey blends guided encounters with moments of quiet discovery, letting Porto’s pulse carry you.
DAY 1 – PETISCOS AND VIEWS | Begin with a guided food tour that introduces Porto through its flavors and stories. Tasting petiscos and Port wine becomes a path through the São Bento station murals, the Dom Luís I Bridge, and corners of daily life. In the evening, climb Torre dos Clérigos, where the Baroque tower rises above the old city and the river glimmers below. The day closes over dinner in the heart of Porto, where the atmosphere feels as local as the wine.
DAY 2 – DOURO HERITAGE AND CHURCHES | Leave the city for a guided day in the Douro Valley, where family-run wineries share the generations-long craft of winemaking and lunch is prepared at the table of a local vintner. Back in Porto, the evening turns toward Igreja de São Francisco, a space where Gothic bones and Baroque gold reveal the layers of faith and power. Dinner follows along the riverfront, with seafood and wine echoing the Douro’s abundance.
DAY 3 – RIVER JOURNEYS AND CATHEDRALS | The final day carries you onto the Douro with a guided boat experience that blends water, wine, and the flavors of a traditional sardine lunch. Returning to the city, step into Porto Cathedral, a landmark that has shaped the skyline and spirit of the city across centuries. Evening is left to reflection, with Porto’s rhythm accompanying the close of your journey.
WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO | Porto invites you to choose your base according to your rhythm. Ribeira puts you directly on the riverfront, with sweeping views and easy access to landmarks, though the nights are lively. Cedofeita offers a more local feel, with art galleries, cafés, and quieter streets just beyond the center. For those who prefer evenings by the sea, Foz provides Atlantic calm while keeping Porto close at hand.
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.

Living the Pulse of Porto

3 days in Porto with food tours, Douro Valley wineries, river cruises, and historic landmarks.

Over seven days, Buenos Aires greets you with ritual, rhythm, and grand facades before the road opens west to Mendoza and the Andes. This week balances guided encounters with space to breathe. You will taste the city in markets and kitchens, learn its stories in theaters and cemeteries, and feel its pulse in a milonga. Then the mountains take over with horseback trails at sunset, fireside asado, wine in the thin air, and time with artisans who keep tradition in their hands.
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL, MATE, MILONGA | Arrive early or the day before so the city can settle around you. In the afternoon, a guided tasting introduces the ritual of mate with a local host, including high-quality blends and traditional biscuits that frame the story and etiquette. After a short pause, the evening unfolds inside a real milonga with a professional dancer who explains the codes and ronda. You may join a dance or simply observe with a glass of wine.
DAY 2 – PALERMO AND CORRIENTES | Late morning brings a guided food walk in Palermo Soho that moves between bakeries, markets, and grills for classics like empanadas, choripán, and steak cuts, paced like a seven-course meal. Rest in the afternoon or wander the plazas. In the evening, a guided walk along Avenida Corrientes ties together theaters, beloved bookstores, and café culture, with simple tastings that carry the street’s late-night spirit.
DAY 3 – BELLE ÉPOQUE AND EMPANADAS | Begin with a guided architecture walk that links Belle Époque façades on Avenida de Mayo, the symbolism of Palacio Barolo, and a pause in a period café before finishing near Teatro Colón. It is history told in stone and light. Later, join a hands-on empanada class in a local home, rolling and folding before sharing wine and dessert.
DAY 4 – LA BOCA AND SAN TELMO | A guided photography tour leads you through La Boca’s color and San Telmo’s market streets at an unhurried pace. Your photographer helps with timing and composition so scenes and stories fall into place, whether you carry a camera or a phone. After lunch, head to the airport for an afternoon or evening flight to Mendoza.
DAY 5 – ANDES SUNSET RIDE | Keep the day open until the mountains call. In the late afternoon you are collected in Mendoza city for a guided horseback ride with gauchos, timed to the soft light of sunset. Afterward, gather by the bonfire for an asado with salads, fresh bread, and local wine, often set to live guitar. Return to town with stars above and woodsmoke on your clothes.
DAY 6 – HIGH-ALTITUDE ASADO DAY TRIP | Set out on a guided full-day trip into the Andes with a stop for local treats and mate before a scenic viewpoint over the Uspallata valley. Continue to a high-altitude estancia for an open-fire asado paired with wines and stories about the ritual’s meaning. There is time to taste, to learn, and to take photographs with guidance from your host. Expect a generous day before the easy descent back to Mendoza.
DAY 7 – ARTISANS OF MENDOZA | Spend the morning on a guided visit focused on handmade work at Mendoza’s artisan market, meeting makers of gaucho leather, textiles, and fine crafts. Your guide helps with context and conversation, and may include a short stop at city boutiques for additional pieces. Choose something meaningful to carry home. Fly back to Buenos Aires in the afternoon for a final night or connect onward if timing allows.
WHERE TO STAY IN BUENOS AIRES AND MENDOZA | In Buenos Aires, Palermo suits walkers who want cafés, galleries, and late meals nearby. Recoleta feels elegant and central, good for quieter nights and classic architecture. San Telmo places you near markets and milongas with a short ride to the center. In Mendoza, stay in the City Center for easy departures and lively evenings, or choose Chacras de Coria and Luján de Cuyo for vineyard air and slower mornings.
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.

Tango to Andes in Argentina

7 days in Argentina: Buenos Aires to Mendoza with tango nights, wine, mate and asado in the Andes.

Renowned for its opulent design and a rich history of premiering some of the world's most famous operas, Teatro La Fenice is not just a venue; it's a living testament to the enduring power of the performing arts. Top 5 reasons to visit:

1 - Historical Significance: Teatro La Fenice, which literally means "The Phoenix Theater," has lived up to its name by rising from the ashes of fires in 1836 and 1996.

2 - An Architectural Marvel: The ornate auditorium, adorned with gilded balconies and lush velvet seating, crowned by an exquisite ceiling fresco, creates an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The meticulous restoration work has preserved the unique Rococo style, making a visit here a visual journey through Venetian history.

3 - Acoustic Excellence: The theater's design is acoustically exceptional. Known for its superb sound quality, La Fenice offers a mesmerizing auditory experience. Whether attending a classic Verdi opera or a contemporary concert, the acoustics here ensure that every note resonates perfectly throughout the auditorium.

4 - A Cultural Hub: Beyond operas and ballets, Teatro La Fenice regularly hosts a variety of cultural events, including the prestigious Venice Biennale's contemporary music sector. These events showcase the theater's commitment to both heritage and innovation in the arts, making it a focal point of Venetian culture.

5 - Immersive Experiences: La Fenice isn't just to be viewed; it's to be experienced. The theater offers behind-the-scenes tours, allowing visitors to explore the backstage, royal box, and even the orchestra pit, offering insights into the world of theater production and the rich history that permeates every corner of this iconic venue.

Practical Information: Tickets for performances and tours can be purchased at La Fenice's official website. 

Photo by Teatro La Fenice

Teatro La Fenice

Emirgan Park, one of Istanbul’s largest and most scenic green spaces, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Nestled along the Bosphorus, this historic park is known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil walking paths, and stunning views of the water. It’s particularly enchanting in April during the annual Tulip Festival, when millions of vibrant tulips create a spectacular tapestry of colors.

1. Tulip Festival Extravaganza: Visit in April to witness the park’s transformation into a floral wonderland. The meticulously arranged tulip displays highlight Turkey’s deep connection to this iconic flower.
2. Expansive Greenery: With over 100 acres of lush lawns, shady groves, and manicured gardens, Emirgan Park is perfect for picnics, family outings, or quiet reflection amidst nature.
3. Historic Pavilions: Admire the park’s three Ottoman-era pavilions—Yellow, Pink, and White—each showcasing elegant architecture and offering cozy cafes for tea or snacks.
4. Bosphorus Views: Stroll along paths that offer breathtaking vistas of the Bosphorus, especially from elevated points in the park. Early mornings or sunsets provide the most magical scenes.
5. Play Areas and Amenities: Families will appreciate the park’s playgrounds, jogging paths, and ample seating areas, making it an ideal spot for visitors of all ages.

Visitor Tip: Arrive early during the Tulip Festival to enjoy the blooms without the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the hilly terrain, and don’t forget your camera to capture the park’s vibrant beauty!

Wander in Emirgan Park

Greece

Arkadi Monastery is one of Crete’s most historically significant sites, symbolizing the island’s fight for independence. Surrounded by olive groves and mountains, this 16th-century monastery combines beauty with deep cultural and historical importance.
1. The monastery’s Venetian architecture is beautifully preserved and features intricate details.
2. The small museum showcases artifacts and exhibits related to Crete’s resistance against the Ottomans.
3. Its peaceful courtyards and gardens create a serene atmosphere.
4. The site is a powerful symbol of Crete’s struggle for freedom, particularly during the 1866 uprising.
5. Stunning views of the surrounding countryside make the visit even more rewarding.

Visitor Tip: Visit early in the day to enjoy the tranquil setting and avoid the midday crowds.  Photo: Georgios Kritsotakis

Arkadi Monastery

Valencia, Spain, is home to the Torres de Serranos, one of the best-preserved medieval gateways in Spain and a symbol of the city’s rich history. Built in 1392, these imposing Gothic towers were once part of Valencia’s ancient city walls and served as both a defensive structure and a ceremonial entrance for visiting royalty. Today, they offer visitors panoramic views of the city, making them a must-visit for history lovers and photographers alike.

1. The grand twin towers, standing 30 meters (98 feet) tall, showcase impressive Gothic military architecture and remain one of Valencia’s most iconic landmarks.

2. A steep but rewarding climb to the top provides breathtaking views of Valencia, including the historic center, the Turia Gardens, and the distant Mediterranean Sea.

3. The original medieval entrance arch, adorned with intricate stone carvings, offers a glimpse into Valencia’s past as a walled city.

4. The towers’ role as a former prison in the 16th–19th centuries adds an intriguing layer to their history, making them more than just a defensive structure.

5. Every year, the Torres de Serranos play a key role in Valencia’s famous Las Fallas festival, serving as the backdrop for the official opening ceremony.

Visitor Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds, and combine your trip with a stroll through the Turia Gardens, located right next to the towers.

Photo: lunamarina

Torres de Serranos

In Lisbon's historic Belém district, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos stands as a monumental testimony to Portugal's Age of Discovery. Commissioned by King Manuel I in the early 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning example of Manueline architecture, symbolizing the nation's maritime prowess and exploratory achievements. Here’s why we recommend it:
1 - Manueline Architectural Splendor: The monastery showcases the unique Manueline style, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish influences. Its grand entrance, adorned with sculptures of historical figures, and the intricately carved cloisters reflect Portugal's seafaring achievements and artistic heritage.
2 - Connection to Early Explorers: Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is closely tied to early explorers like Vasco da Gama, whose tomb lies within the church. It was a place of prayer for sailors before embarking on their voyages, intertwining Portugal's maritime history with religious devotion.
3 - Cultural and Religious Center for Navigators: Serving as a cultural and religious hub, the monastery housed monks of the Order of Saint Jerome, who provided spiritual guidance to navigators and prayed for the king's soul, playing a crucial role in the religious and cultural life of Portugal.
4 - Enchanting Gardens: Set against beautiful gardens and the Tagus River, the monastery's serene atmosphere is complemented by the nearby Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries, enhancing the historical ambiance of the area.
5 - Treasury of Artistic and Maritime History: The interior features an altar, royal tombs, and a chapel, rich in artistic details. Additionally, it houses the Maritime Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, offering insights into Portugal's naval history. Guided tours offer an in-depth exploration of its historical and architectural significance. https://www.jeronimosmonasterytickets.com
Photo by Dalila Moreira

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Jamaica

With 25+ years of crafting Jamaican traditional meals, Chef Chris gained fame when Anthony Bourdain showcased his skills on "Parts Unknown" in 2014. 

From the moment we stepped into the Cook Shop, all our senses were engaged. The local scenes, the staff busy with their preparation and the aromas from the kitchen. But it was Chris's warm welcome that made the experience truly unforgettable. We chopped, marinated, and grilled under his guidance, learning the art of his signature jerk chicken and curry goat. Then we gathered on his rooftop deck overlooking James Bond Beach in the distance – a lovely backdrop to our culinary adventure - to eat together. We savored the dishes we helped create, and Chef Chris even shared a packet of his secret curry powder for us to take home.

Cooking with Chef Chris

The Spanish Steps, gracefully ascending from Piazza di Spagna to Trinità dei Monti church, are a cultural symbol of Rome. Renowned for their elegant design and vibrant atmosphere, the steps offer a unique blend of architectural beauty, historical significance, and urban charm. Top 5 things to look for:
 
1 - Historical Context: The Spanish Steps, designed in the 18th century by Francesco de Sanctis, are an architectural marvel. With their irregular butterfly design, the steps gracefully connect the lower Piazza di Spagna with the upper piazza housing the Trinità dei Monti church. 

2 - Piazza di Spagna and the Barcaccia Fountain: At the foot of the steps, the Piazza di Spagna is a lively square where locals and tourists converge, especially for the evening passeggiata (traditional stroll by the locals). The centerpiece is the Barcaccia Fountain, a Baroque masterpiece by Pietro Bernini, father of the famous Gian Lorenzo Bernini. This unique fountain, resembling a sinking ship, adds to the picturesque scene.

3 - Cultural Significance of Literary Associations: The Spanish Steps have long been a meeting place for artists, poets, and writers, contributing to their cultural aura. Nearby, the Keats-Shelley Memorial House commemorates the Romantic poets who were inspired by Rome, adding a layer of literary significance to the area.

4 - Breathtaking Views and Floral Decorations: When we climb these steps, we love to pause and enjoy the breathtaking views of Rome's rooftops and bustling streets below. In spring, the steps are adorned with vibrant flowers.

5 - Trinità dei Monti Church: At the top of the steps, the Trinità dei Monti church, with its twin bell towers, offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle. The church’s interior, though less ornate than other Roman churches, exudes a peaceful charm, complementing the lively atmosphere of the steps.

The Spanish Steps are always open and free to the public. 

Photo by Gabriella Clare Marino

The Spanish Steps

Peru

My enduring memory of this visit was watching a group of women unraveling their yarn 🧶 with hands moving so fast it was mesmerising to watch. 

Chinchero is a small Andean village near Urubamba. A handicrafts market is held here thrice a week - and it’s a great place to meet the local people. 

Or to haggle for textiles. Or vegetables. Or a 🐓. To learn how to distinguish between the various Andean tribes based on their different, wildly colorful hats. To catch a weaving demonstration at a local workshop. And marvel at how every color in the wool comes from a natural dye source. 

And my favorite: To make an old lady laugh by showing her pictures on my viewfinder of her own toothy grin from different angles.

Spinning a Yarn

Devrent Valley, often called Imagination Valley, invites visitors to unleash their creativity as they explore its whimsical rock formations, which resemble animals and other shapes.
1. Rock Formations: Marvel at natural sculptures shaped like camels, dolphins, and even castles—an incredible showcase of Cappadocia’s geological artistry.
2. Creative Exploration: Let your imagination guide you as you wander through this enchanting valley, spotting unique shapes in the formations.
3. Photo Opportunities: Capture playful photos with the rock formations, which are especially captivating in the soft light of morning or evening.

Visitor Tip: Visit with a local guide to hear stories and interpretations of the formations, or bring along friends for a fun and interactive experience.

Imagination Valley

Barcelona, Spain, is home to the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC), a spectacular museum showcasing one of the most comprehensive collections of Catalan art in the world. Located inside the grand Palau Nacional on Montjuïc Hill, the museum offers a journey through a thousand years of art, from Romanesque frescoes to Modernist masterpieces. With its breathtaking views over Barcelona, majestic domed halls, and an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and photography, MNAC is a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

1. Inside the museum, a world-renowned collection of Romanesque frescoes from medieval Catalan churches showcases some of the most important religious artworks in Europe.

2. The Gothic and Renaissance galleries feature masterpieces by Spanish and European artists, including works by El Greco, Velázquez, and Goya.

3. The Modernist collection includes stunning pieces by Catalan artists, such as Ramon Casas and Santiago Rusiñol, offering insight into Barcelona’s artistic evolution.

4. The Rooftop terrace provides panoramic views of Barcelona, including Plaça d’Espanya and the Magic Fountain, making it a fantastic spot for photography.

5. The Palau Nacional itself is an architectural gem, with its grand staircases, marble columns, and domed ceilings creating an opulent atmosphere for exploring art.

Visitor Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the museum’s exhibits, then head outside to watch the Magic Fountain show at sunset, located just below the museum. Free entry is available on Saturdays after 3 PM and the first Sunday of the month.

Museu Nacional de Catalunya

Salona Archaeological Park, near Split, is the site of the ancient city of Salona, once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. Why visit:

1: Explore the ruins of Salona, which was a major Roman city with a population of over 60,000 at its peak. The site provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient urban life.

2: Wander through extensive archaeological remains, including the amphitheater, basilicas, public baths, and city gates, which testify to the city's former grandeur and importance.

3: Discover the early Christian heritage through the ruins of churches and cemeteries, highlighting Salona's role in the spread of Christianity in the region.

4: Learn about the daily lives, customs, and architecture of the Romans through well-preserved artifacts, structures, and informative displays throughout the park.

5: Set amidst lush vegetation and scenic landscapes, the park offers a peaceful and natural environment for exploring history and archaeology.

6: Witness ongoing archaeological excavations that continue to uncover new findings, offering a live insight into the processes of historical research and discovery.

7: Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical and archaeological significance of the site, with experts providing context and narratives that bring the ancient city to life.

Salona Archaeological Park is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the ancient past and the opportunity to explore one of the most significant archaeological sites in Croatia.

Photo: Viliam.M

Salona Archaeological Park

The riad sends a donkey called Couscous to meet us and pick up the luggage; the taxi will only go so far into the medina. 

As our merry procession winds through the narrow, confusing alleyways, we panic slightly. No problem, says a djelleba-clad staff member, you’ll have a map and cell phone to call if you’re lost. But he graciously accompanies us to our dinner booking and explains how we should get back to the riad. We leave invisible bread crumbs along the way – kebab shop, sweets stall, bakery etc. 

After a long meal, at 11:30 pm, the souks have closed, the streets look very different, and our bread crumbs have obviously gone to bed. It takes two wrong turns and much poring over the map before we find our way back. Our sense of adventure is fully piqued. 

Inside, the restored riad is palatial, with courtyards, heated pool, tiled terraces and stylish artwork. Breakfast is whenever you want, and wherever, says the charming Afaf. 

Shall we move in permanently, we wonder.

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