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Japan

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.

Journalist and photographer Toshiko takes you on a time-slip through centuries of Edo–Tokyo history, visiting businesses that have survived generations of upheaval — earthquakes, fires, and bombings. You'll visit shops and restaurants founded during this transitional period (perhaps even a sushi shop first opened in 1702), with stops along the way for a snack or light meal.

Tokyo is a city that has been razed and rebuilt many times, by both manmade and natural disasters. This walking tour focuses on a part of Tokyo where businesses and traditions have persisted since the era when the city was known as Edo and home to the Shogun. This area is home to many shinise — family-run businesses that have operated continuously for generations, some tracing their roots to the 17th century.

Japan's modern story begins after the fall of the Shogunate in the late 19th century, when the new Meiji government struggled to establish itself after centuries of isolation had left the country behind.

Forgotten among the ultra-modern landscape of one of the world's busiest metropolises, remnants of Japan's history as an isolated nation ruled by a warrior-class are still very much a part of Tokyo's modern identity. The Nihonbashi area, once considered the center of all of Japan, still plays an important role in preserving the shops and traditions of this ancient time.

Several shops here are officially recognized as “shinise,” and continue to use traditional methods, recipes, and materials passed down through generations — making them custodians of living history. This tour highlights why these businesses matter beyond their longevity, offering a meaningful introduction to the cultural role of shinise in Japan today.

Toshiko's insatiable curiosity as a journalist and keen eye as a photographer make her the perfect guide to lead you on a story through time, revealing locations, foods, and products that originated in Japan's Edo Period, and bringing you into the present. 

Walking Tour in Tokyo: Explore Edo-era shops & traditions in Nihonbashi with a journalist guide.

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

The Shinise of Old Tokyo

Expert guidance by a culture journalist and photographer while walking around historic businesses and traditional eateries. 

The experience includes a break wih a light snack or small meal.

Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
Cash for optional purchases at local shops as some may not take credit cards. Keep in mind, there's no pressure or obligation to buy anything from the shops you visit. 

Manseibashi Bridge, near JR Akihabara Station. Depending on where you're staying or coming over from, the meeting point can be flexible. Details can be confirmed through chat once the booking is done. 

Toshiko Sakurai is a storyteller with a camera and a passion for Tokyo’s history and architectural evolution. Her years of experience as a culture and travel journalist and photographer have taken her through a wide exploration of the city's hidden corners and all the places that make up Tokyo's fascinating character.

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.

Chile

Rise and shine: long before the sun makes its arrival over the valleys of Atacama Desert, you'll be on the road to one of the main gateways to the Andean highlands of Chile. This is a full-day photographic odyssey of some of the Atacama's most shocking natural wonders where you will contemplate important high-altitude ecosystems rich in biodiversity and cultural significance. These include the wetlands of Machuca and Putana, the Tatio Geyser, the Cactus Canyon, and the Puritama Hot Springs.

This experience is delivered by a professional photographer who will mentor you through the process of capturing the landscapes. As a private excursion focused on photography, the pace is slower than typical tours operating to these beauty spots. You will take your time at each destination and spend time perfecting your shooting skills and watching for wildlife. The activity concludes by bathing in the warm waters of the Puritama Thermal Springs. 

This experience stars one of the Atacama's most famous natural wonders and two of its hidden gems. It concludes at what is perhaps the only relaxing activity in the region—bathing in the thermal springs of Puritama. As a photography experience, the day maintains a slower pace and a steady focus on studying the landscapes in finite detail. 

Beyond the theatrical geyser spectacle, the Putana and Machuca wetlands are especially captivating to explore. Inhabited by the Atacameño people for centuries, Mirko will explain how farmers use these grasses and marshes uphold traditional llama and alpaca herding practices. There are opportunities to photograph Andean flamingos, vicuñas, and such birds as Puna Ibis and giant coots before stopping by the village to sample llama cheese empanadas. The Cactus Canyon (Quebrada de Guatín) is another spot skipped by most tours. Here, you'll encounter towering cacti used for traditional medicine, tools, and rituals.

Photo Tour Atacama Desert from San Pedro de Atacama: Tatio Geyser, Machuca Wetland, Puritama Spring.

Fire & Water 

Guided full-day photography tour of the Atacama highlands.

Visits to Machuca and Putana wetlands, Tatio Geyser, Cactus Canyon, and Puritama Hot Springs.

Unhurried time at each site to practice technique and watch for wildlife.

Bathing at Puritama Thermal Springs; towels provided.

Breakfast, lunch, and bottled water.

Round trip transfer from/to your hotel.

Sunscreen, lipbalm, sunhat, and sunglasses.
Comfortable and warm clothes: bear in mind that temperatures fluctuate throughout the day and you may experience low temperatures, intense sunshine, and strong winds.
Swimsuit. 
Camera: this can be a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even a smartphone. Lenses and tripods are encouraged. 
Binoculars are recommended.

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


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

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

Mexico

Explore Teotihuacan in a thoughtful early-morning, private tour to Mexico’s iconic pyramids. Designed for comfort and connection, this exclusive day trip from Mexico City begins with hotel pickup, coffee, and a light snack before arriving early to beat the crowds and heat.

Teotihuacan, an ancient Mesoamerican city, is one of Mexico’s most revered heritage sites. Its pyramids and ceremonial avenues still echo with the presence of the pre-Columbian civilizations who built them. You'll visit Teotihuacan’s major landmarks—including the Pyramid of the Sun, the Avenue of the Dead, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent—on foot or with short drives between sections to reduce fatigue and maximize what you see.

Along the way, your guide, an expert in art history and archaeology, will share stories that bring the cultural site’s structures, myths, and meaning to life. After exploring the site, you’ll enjoy a relaxed Mexican brunch—tacos or quesadillas—before returning to Mexico City.

This thoughtfully curated version of the Teotihuacan experience offers a rare balance of comfort, ease, and depth. Early morning access ensures a relaxed visit without crowds, while a flexible format—combining walking and short drives—lets you explore without fatigue and make the most of your time at the site.

Teotihuacan, once the largest city in the Americas, is home to some of the most iconic structures in Mesoamerica, including the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent. Its vast scale and complex history can be overwhelming, but this approach makes it both engaging and accessible. 

Led by art historians with a gift for storytelling, the tour brings the city’s mysteries into focus. You'll explore its origins, the myths surrounding its rise, theories of its decline, and the spiritual legacy that continues to inspire awe today—all delivered with clarity and insight in an intimate, conversational tone that encourages curiosity and connection.

You'll explore the Ciudadela and step inside the Temple of Quetzalcoatl—one of the most fascinating and symbolic pyramids in Teotihuacan.

Your hosts connect the dots—architecture, mythology, and the latest discoveries—to help you see this ancient city with clarity and depth. You’ll come away with a clear sense of what Teotihuacan was, why it mattered, and how it shaped the civilizations that followed.

Archaeological exploration of Ciudadela and Temple of Quetzalcoatl in Teotihuacan

Quetzalcoatl Temple

After a short drive, you’ll arrive at Teotihuacan’s sacred axis—home to the Pyramid of the Sun, one of the largest in the world, and the Pyramid of the Moon, perfectly aligned with the mountains behind it. You’ll walk through the Quetzalpapálotl Palace, where carved pillars and ancient murals hint at the lives of priests and rulers who once shaped this vast city.

By cutting the long walk, you get straight to Teotihuacan’s most iconic structures—refreshed and ready to take it all in. At the ceremonial core of the city, the Pyramid of the Sun rises 65 meters high, built to align with the setting sun on key dates. The Pyramid of the Moon frames the Avenue of the Dead and mirrors the sacred mountain beyond. The pyramids were engineered to align with the cosmos, and the palace still holds stories in its murals and stonework. With clear, thoughtful guidance, you'll connect architecture, myth, and meaning—no dry lectures, just real insight.

Explore the Sun and Moon Pyramids and Quetzalpapálotl Palace in Teotihuacan. 

Sun and Moon Pyramids

We'll have a nice mexican brunch -tacos or quesadillas- in a typical restaurant before heading back to the city. 

You get a real taste of local flavor. We’ll help you pick something great, share a few personal favorites, and make sure you’re full, relaxed, and ready for the easy ride back to your hotel.

Delicious Mexican brunch—tacos or quesadillas—before heading back to drop you off at your hotel.


Mexican Brunch & Drive Back

You will be met at your accommodation and your day will kick off with a smooth pickup. You’ll have a good coffee and a quick bite to go—fuel for the road ahead.

You’ll arrive at Teotihuacan right as it opens, when the light is golden and the site is nearly empty. It’s the best way to experience its scale and silence—before the tour buses and crowds arrive.

Pickup at your accommodation in Mexico City and coffee/snack stop en route to Teotihuacan.

Pickup & Coffee

Day Trip to Teotihuacan from Mexico City with early access, private transport, historian-led tour. 

Mysteries of Teotihuacan

Early entry and guided tour of Teotihuacan with an expert in art history and archaeology.

Visits to key landmarks including the Pyramid of the Sun, Avenue of the Dead, and Temple of the Feathered Serpent.

Coffee and light snack before departure.

Short drives between site sections to reduce walking fatigue.

Post-tour brunch with tacos or quesadillas included.

Private round-trip transportation from Mexico City.

Comfortable shoes, sunblock and a cap or hat.

You will be picked up and dropped off at your accommodation within Mexico City. After completing the booking, use Chat to share your hotel details and confirm the meeting point. 

Andrea Bustillos and Andrea Villers are two art historians and curators with over fifteen years of experience in museums, galleries, and cultural spaces. United by a passion for contemporary art, they’ve each developed careers dedicated to enriching Mexico’s cultural landscape.

Andrea B., trained in Madrid, directed a gallery focused on contemporary painting and currently leads a national program supporting creative industries.

Andrea V., educated in Granada and with a master’s in Curatorial Studies, leads a consultancy that develops exhibition projects and advises on cultural strategies.

Together, they offer in-depth experiences grounded in their knowledge of the local arts scene and strong ties to artists, curators, and institutions. If they are unavailable, their colleagues Jaime or Mario—also experienced art historians—will host the experience. This will be confirmed well in advance.

This experience is a cultural commentary on Chilean textiles from past to present and an opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs under the guidance of a local entrepreneur with a globally successful loom weaving brand merging tradition and innovation. The itinerary spans four locations in downtown Santiago, each accessed by metro during this outing.

Upon meeting your host, Flor, at La Moneda Cultural Center you will view the current textile exposition installed at the gallery before continuing onwards to the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center. These centers serve as an introduction to traditional weaving styles still prevalent in modern Chilean and Andean cultures. Flor will then take you to her go-to yarn store, the ultra-funky Revesderecho, and explain about different fibers while sharing the historical development of store items for context. The experience concludes at the Los Dominicos Craft Village in Las Condes where Flor will facilitate conversations with artisans.

Flor has curated this experience as an opportunity to learn about Chilean textiles in a relaxed context. While visiting two cultural centers, a modern yarn store, and an artisan village, you will "unravel" the history and cultural significance of textile design and learn how techniques are woven into the fabric of modern-day Chile. Flor is unique in that she both looks to the past while embracing innovation in her work. 

The cultural centers are in themselves an exciting place to tap into modern Chilean culture. Both are a melting point for all kinds of artistic expressions—textiles, art, music, and beyond—where free and ticketed exhibitions ensure culture remains accessible. Visiting the yarn store illustrates how contemporary creatives approach their craft and the wide variety of acrylic, natural, wool, blended, and specialty fibers available. The final shopping experience is cultural exchange whereby you have the option to purchase handmade mementos upon having met the creator.

Craft & Textile Tour in Santiago: Discover Chilean weaving, crafts & yarns with a local designer.

The Artisan's Way

Guided textile culture walk in Santiago.

Visits to La Moneda Cultural Center, Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center, Revesderecho yarn store, and Los Dominicos Craft Village.

Facilitated introductions to artisans at Los Dominicos.

Metro transportation between locations.

One coffee and an alfajor.

Comfortable clothing and footwear for walking. 
Cash (Chilean pesos) in case you wish to purchase any souvenirs. 
Coffee and alfajor (Chilean confectionary). 

Flor will meet you at the La Moneda Cultural Center in central Santiago, Chile. La Moneda is the closest metro station. 

Florencia Campos Correa, or Flor, is a Chilean-Spanish textile designer and author based in Santiago. Her business, Ullvuna, is dedicated to portable pin loom weaving kits which are available globally. Much of Flor's inspiration comes from her passion and appreciation for Chilean culture and people. She deeply admires the landscapes and nature as well as the ancient fables she absorbed as a child while traveling every corner of Chile by caravan with her family.

Flor has authored several books packed with vibrant pattern inspiration and projects. Her nature motifs are translated into floral crochet designs published in a British magazine and she has penned a children's story which inspires creativity and entrepreneurship in the youngest of budding designers. 

You're invited into a tiny living room tucked inside a bustling market, where Federico has recreated his Nonna’s home with wallpapered walls, vintage objects, and a table full of childhood flavors. This 10-square-meter corner is a tribute to family memories, bringing to you the recipes his grandmother used to cook at home for him, his grandfather, and the rest of the family.

You’ll taste pasta, meatballs, mini panini with ragù, and other traditional recipes from a Roman family just as Nonna served them. Federico cooks in front of you and tells stories of growing up between pots of tomato sauce and lovingly strict grandmothers who always said, “You must become stronger!” Every bite is served with a glass of wine and a dose of nostalgia.

The atmosphere is spontaneous and warm—there’s even a piano you can play. It’s a celebration of simple pleasures and the affection that only a Nonna’s kitchen could hold. A delicious slice of Roman life, as seen through the eyes of a devoted grandson.

This experience is shaped by the warm, exaggerated affection that only an Italian Nonna could give. Federico and Nicla welcome you with the same spirit their grandmother showed to anyone entering her kitchen—generous, affectionate, and a bit theatrical in the best way.

Every Nonna had her way of doing things, and this space, which will be exclusively reserved for you during the experience, reflects that: a setting recreated with care and irony, where every detail brings back the spirit of a Roman Sunday lunch. As you eat, you’ll hear stories, jokes, and memories that evoke the strength, tenderness, and stubborn generosity that made grandmothers the true architects of Italian family cuisine.

Lunch becomes a moment of inclusion—just like when Nonna used to call in friends, neighbors, and whoever happened to be passing by, insisting there was always enough for one more. Here, every plate carries a story, and every guest becomes part of the family.

Dining Experience in Rome: Taste Nonna-style home food & family stories in a tiny market kitchen.

Nonna’s Recipes in Testaccio

Full guidance from Benedetta, with storytelling and interaction with Federico and Nicla.

Private, home-style Roman lunch in a recreated “Nonna’s kitchen” setting, exclusively reserved for you.

Homemade menu featuring a starter, main dish, dessert, a glass of wine — inspired by authentic family recipes.

Warm, convivial atmosphere filled with stories, laughter, and the spirit of a true Italian Sunday lunch.

You’ll meet Benedetta in front of the Mattatoio, a former slaughterhouse now turned cultural hub, located in the Testaccio district. See address in the map.

Benedetta is a warm and outgoing guide based in Rome, with a deep passion for history, food, and the everyday rhythm of the Eternal City. Certified both as a pastry chef and a sommelier, she brings together her love for good food and her curiosity for the stories behind it—because, for her, cuisine is one of the most powerful ways to understand a place and its people. With her, discovering Rome means tasting its specialties, walking its lively streets, and experiencing the city as locals do—one bite, one sip, one story at a time.

This experience welcomes you into the studio of Shannon McEvoy in Providencia, Santiago’s leafiest central district, for a two-hour private meet-and-greet with the artist.

Over light refreshments, you’ll hear how Shannon relocated from the United States to Chile and established herself as a muralist working between two cultures. She will share insights into her creative process and the techniques behind large-scale public artworks. Through an interactive presentation, you’ll explore some of her murals across Chile and beyond, gaining an understanding of how street art reflects cultural narratives and urban identities.

Inside her studio, you’ll view a curated selection of her works, from completed pieces to works in progress, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at an artist’s evolving practice. The session also provides an opportunity to discuss the role of public art in shaping communities and the inspirations that fuel her vibrant, large-scale creations.

This rare-access, behind-the-scenes experience takes place in the private studio of an artist whose work bridges the cultural landscapes of Chile and the United States. Shannon will share little-known stories about how she integrated into the local art scene and provide an overview of Chilean artistic traditions, from muralism to contemporary public art.

As an artistic director, Shannon collaborates with fellow muralists and actively champions the community aspect of street art. She will discuss her latest large-scale installation, created in partnership with the Santiago Metro and the United States Embassy. This is a chance to engage in an open conversation about life as a bilingual expat in Chile, the intersection of art and activism, and creative inspiration. 

Hot beverages and light refreshments are served. This is a lighter version of a meal called "once" (pronounced on-say) which is the Chilean equivalent of afternoon tea.

Studio Visit in Santiago, Chile with a muralist to explore street art techniques, process & meaning.

Once with the Artist

Private two-hour studio visit with a muralist.

Discussion about her creative process and how street arts reflect cultural narratives and urban identities.

Light refreshments.

Optional browsing and purchase of artworks; no obligation.

This experience takes place in Shannon's studio in Providencia, Santiago de Chile (exact address to be provided after booking). 

If traveling by metro, take Line 1 and alight at either Pedro de Valdivia or Manuel Montt. It's a 15-minute walk to Shannon’s studio from either station. Uber and Cabify rides are widely available in Santiago. 

Originally from Minnesota, multimedia artist Shannon McEvoy studied in Viña del Mar in 2010. The country and its people left a lasting impression on her, and she quickly returned after graduation. Inspired by the street art of Valparaíso, she incorporated Chilean muralism into her undergraduate Honors Thesis and later became a muralist herself.

Shannon has lived in Chile for over 10 years, where she teaches English and creates murals—though her talents extend far beyond. She also paints, sketches, makes ceramics and jewelry, designs her own clothes, and experiments with photography. As an artistic director, she has overseen several monumental public art installations in Santiago and beyond.

Passionate about both art and language, Shannon sees them as powerful tools for self-expression and meaningful connection. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she also speaks basic Portuguese.

This hands-on art and storytelling experience immerses you in Chilean art, culture, and mythology in the relaxed setting of a multifaceted artist's studio in a peaceful suburb north of Valparaíso. Marcela's home studio overlooks one of Concón's quaint fishing hamlets and sets the scene for an afternoon of creativity and calm.

Before starting, Marcela will share anecdotes relating to Concón and Valparaíso. Under her guidance, you'll try your hand at crafting a monotype print inspired by Chile's landscapes and mythology. Marcela will support you through creating the design and nurturing your natural talent and proving that everyone has an inner artist. By the time the activity is complete, your print will be ready to take away. No prior experience or skills in drawing or printmaking are necessary. To conclude your trip to Concón, Marcela will serve a light "once" of tea and pastries as well as recommending local seafood restaurants in the "Gastronomic Capital of Chile".

The experience provides rare access to the home studio of a professional Chilean artist. Marcela's portfolio spans lithography, painting, and folk art and she will share rich insight into Chile's artisanal legacy and culture while you create—storytelling lies at the heart of this activity. Marcela's studio stands above the Higuerillas fishing hamlet in Concón, a short drive from Viña del Mar or Valparaíso. This quiet area is rarely visited by international tourists which means you'll experience a truly local community. 

In terms of inspiration, you only need glance outside where dunes tumble to meet the waves of the Pacific and seals cling to rocky crags. This residential neighborhood is alive with flora and avifauna while Marcela, well-versed in Chilean mythology, has further visual prompts to kindle your creativity. Refreshments and pastries are provide—if you're lucky, you may get to try "pancito amasado" bread baked by Marcela's father, a retired lighthouse keeper. 

Art Workshop in Concón, Chile, artist-led with soy-based monotype printmaking, no experience needed.

Art on the Pacific 

Guided monotype printmaking session.

All art materials provided, including non-toxic, soy-based inks.

Your finished monotype print to take home.

Light refreshments: tea, coffee or mate, juice, and local pastries.

Comfortable attire.
Please be advised, in case of allergies, that four cats reside on the premises.

You will meet at the artist's home studio in the Higuerillas hamlet, Concon. The exact location is provided after booking. Uber is readily available from Valparaíso, Viña del Mar, and Reñaca. 

Marcela Rodriguez is a contemporary multi-media artist. Born in 1965, Marcela grew up living in lighthouses with her lighthouse-keeper father along the rugged Southern Chilean coast. The vast Patagonian landscape and turbulent Pacific Ocean greatly influenced her. While in college, she discovered street theatre and performed with two important Santiago theatre troupes.

In 1992, Marcela moved to Minneapolis, USA, and obtained a bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts and an MFA in painting and drawing. In 2001, she moved back to Chile and developed a passion for printmaking, focusing on lithography. Her artwork has been exhibited in galleries throughout Chile, Mexico, Cuba, and the USA.

Marcela has completed two art residencies for printmakers, including a month-long one in Veracruz, Mexico at La Ceiba Grafica in 2018 and with renowned artists from “Taller 99” in Santiago, 2019. She currently lives and works as a visual artist in Concon, Chile, and teaches at Casa Plan in Valparaíso.

Türkiye

Enjoy a photographic journey in Cappadocia centered around the majestic Yilki horses–symbols of wild endurance and freedom in the heart of Anatolia. This experience is designed for photography enthusiasts of all skill levels, focusing on capturing the grace and raw beauty of these historic animals against the region’s unique landscapes. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from central Cappadocia to the Hürmetçi Marshes timed perfectly to catch the sunset. As you traverse the land, you’ll encounter over 100 wild horses galloping across the open plains, kicking up clouds of dust, and bathing in golden light—a spectacle against the backdrop of volcanic formations and ancient cave dwellings. Before or after the session, you’ll stop for a hearty, local meal in the nearest village. This itinerary is catered for professional photographers looking for rare shots and amateurs eager to enrich their portfolios under the expert guidance of a seasoned local photographer.

What sets this experience apart is not just the opportunity to photograph wild Yilki horses in a stunning surrounding but also the guided expertise of a photographer that has been capturing the herd for decades. This expert knows the terrain intimately and understands the horses' behaviors and patterns, enabling participants to capture the perfect shot. With the help of a truck, trailer, van, or tractor you’ll gain an elevated vantage point, significantly enhancing the visual depth of your photographs.

This experience uniquely combines practical photography tips with an active photoshoot, offering a comprehensive learning opportunity. You'll learn to tell a powerful visual story through your lens, appreciate the silent language of the Yilki horses as they interact with their environment and each other, but you'll also have the chance to have your photo taken against Cappadocia’s majestic backdrop, creating lasting memories.

Photo Workshop near Cappadocia capturing horses at sunset with Yilki horses photography expert.

The Yilki Horses of Anatolia

Comprehensive photographic guidance.

Private transportation from and to your hotel.

Traditional meal featuring several meze including a variety of buffalo-based dishes.

Bring your camera equipment, including lenses suitable for wildlife photography (telephoto recommended), spare batteries, and memory cards. Wear comfortable, neutral-colored clothing to blend into natural surroundings, sturdy hiking boots, and weather-appropriate gear. You will be standing up for a while so be sure to bring warm layers in winter. A tripod for stable shots is also recommended. Get a scarf to protect against the dust in the plains.

You will be picked up from your hotel. Please share your hotel details with Nuri via Fernwayer chat after booking.

Nuri Çorbacıoğlu is a leading equine photographer renowned for his stunning images of the wild Yilki horses in Cappadocia, Turkey. Dubbed the "Yilki Horses Photographer," he masterfully captures these majestic animals in their natural habitats—galloping across dusty plains, charging through snow, or splashing in spring waters. His deep understanding of horse behavior and the Anatolian landscape allows him to anticipate and freeze moments that showcase the horses' freedom and spirit.

Greece

Discover Epidaurus, where healing and theater were deeply connected in the ancient world. This experience blends guided exploration with interactive activities, making history engaging for families.

Elias will guide you through the Sanctuary of Asclepius, once one of the most revered healing centers of antiquity. Here, the sick sought divine intervention—Asclepius himself was believed to appear in dreams, revealing remedies or miraculous cures.

The visit continues to the Theatre of Epidaurus, one of the most celebrated theaters of antiquity. More than a place of performance, it was an essential part of therapy, reflecting the belief that art could restore both body and mind.

Finally, take part in theatrical games led by Rita, where storytelling and improvisation bring history to life. Families engage in a hands-on exploration of Greek drama and its ties to ancient healing practices.

This experience brings Epidaurus to life in a way that goes beyond facts and dates, revealing how healing and theater were deeply intertwined. With Elias, explore the Sanctuary of Asclepius, where medicine, faith, and dreams shaped ancient healing, and discover why it was one of antiquity’s most revered centers of well-being. Stand in the iconic theatre, where performances were more than entertainment—they were a path to emotional and physical restoration.

What truly sets this apart is the interactive family-focused element: guided by Rita, a drama educator, take part in theatrical games that bring ancient drama to life. This is a chance to connect with history not just by seeing but by experiencing it through movement, imagination, and play—perfect for families and curious minds alike.

For a more contemplative version focused on ancient wellness practices and olive oil tradition, see Elias’s other tour: "Where Theater Was Healing."

Theater Experience in Epidaurus from Nafplio or Athens, exploring myths through play and staging.

Healing Games at Epidaurus

Guided exploration of the Sanctuary of Asclepius and the Theatre of Epidaurus with a licensed guide.

Entrance fees to the archaeological site.

Theatrical games and storytelling workshop led by Rita.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

**Note: Best suited for families with children aged 8-13, adaptations can be done for younger kids upon request via Chat.

Self-drive to the meeting point or arrange a private transfer to reach your guide in Epidaurus (a 30-minute drive from Nafplio or 2 hours from Athens).
Bring comfortable shoes, hat and sunscreen.

You’ll meet Elias at the ticket booth of the archaeological site

Elias Papadopoulos is a licensed guide with a background in history, archaeology, and law. Based in Nafplio, he explores the rich cultural and archaeological heritage of the Peloponnese, focusing on the lives of ordinary people, the social forces shaping civilizations, and the deep connection between history, geography, and climate.

Rita Zikidou lives in Nafplio and works as a drama educator for children, but her passion for nature has led her to combine her work with the outdoors becoming a hiking guide  as well.

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.

United States

This Lisbon 5 day itinerary brings together local stories, layered heritage and modern creativity. Through guided encounters and self-paced discovery, you’ll walk through the city’s romantic heart, visit iconic sites like Sintra and Belém, and explore hidden corners through art, photography and Portuguese food.

DAY 1 – OLD STREETS AND EVERYDAY LIFE | Begin with Where Time Has Paused, a full-day walking tour through Baixa and Chiado guided by a local historian. You’ll explore old cafés, tiled storefronts, and elegant squares that reveal Lisbon’s bourgeois charm. A traditional lunch is included along the way, offering a moment to pause and taste the rhythm of the city. In the evening, head to O Velho Eurico for bold Portuguese food in the heart of Mouraria.

DAY 2 – ART AND SENSORY RITUALS | Begin the day at the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, set in a 17th-century palace overlooking the Tagus. This self-led visit offers a quiet immersion into Portuguese heritage through sacred art, decorative objects, and global exchanges from the Age of Discoveries. In the afternoon, join a guided wine experience with a local sommelier to taste and understand Portugal’s diverse wine regions and styles. As evening falls, Fado Echoes in Alfama brings you into Lisbon’s oldest quarter for a night of walking, storytelling, and live music in an intimate fado house.

DAY 3 – MONUMENTS AND TILES | Start your day in Belém with Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a monument to Portugal’s Age of Discovery where history and architecture meet. After a break, dive into the country’s most beloved visual tradition with A City of Azulejos, a walking tour led by a tile expert through Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Alfama. You’ll trace centuries of artistry while walking in Lisbon’s historic core. End the day with a refined tasting menu at Belcanto.

DAY 4 – ART, MARKET, AND HIDDEN VIEWS | Begin with A Trail of Art Galleries, a curated Lisbon experience that introduces you to the city’s most dynamic creative spaces. Walk to Mercado de Campo de Ourique, a food market in Lisbon Portugal where locals gather over wine, lunch, and fresh produce. Later, join Lisbon’s Hidden Lens, a photography walk through alleys, miradouros, and layered cityscapes guided by a visual storyteller. Dinner at Trinca offers a relaxed and design-forward setting.

DAY 5 – MOUNTAINS AND MODERN CUISINE | Take a full-day journey into the mountains with Life in the Schist Villages, a day trip from Lisbon where you’ll visit stone hamlets, meet local artisans, and enjoy home-cooked Portuguese cuisine among forest trails and rural tradition. Return to the city for your last dinner at Prado, where modern Portuguese food is served in a minimalist, seasonal space near the cathedral.

WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON | For this Lisbon 5 day itinerary, stay in Chiado or Baixa for central access to cafés, viewpoints, and walkable routes. Alfama offers atmosphere and music in the evenings, while Campo de Ourique and Príncipe Real bring quieter rhythm and local charm. Choose based on your pace — Lisbon rewards those who walk slowly and look closely.

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.

Portugal

The Charming Soul of Lisbon

5 days in Lisbon with palaces, tiles, fado, markets and a day trip to the mountains and villages.

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.

Argentina

Icons to Stage in Buenos Aires

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Naples with a Living Past

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sicily, Between Earth and Sky

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

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.

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.

Hub cities: Rome, Naples, Palermo, Taormina, Catania
Duration: 14 days — 4 days in Rome, 2 days in Naples, 8 days in Sicily (Palermo, Erice, Marsala, Cefalù, Taormina, Catania)
Trip Highlights:
Rome: Begin your journey by exploring ancient history with visits to the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and the Roman countryside. Savor traditional Roman cuisine and enjoy a wine masterclass.
Naples: Experience the energy of Naples with visits to Pompeii and Spaccanapoli, and indulge in authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Palermo: Discover Sicily’s rich history with a visit to the Norman Palace, Palermo Cathedral, and vibrant street markets, followed by an excursion to the medieval town of Erice.
Marsala: Enjoy the stunning coastal landscapes and visit local wineries, salt flats, and windmills.
Cefalù: Relax on the beach, explore the charming town, and visit the historic Museo Mandralisca.
Taormina and Mount Etna: Explore the Teatro Greco in Taormina, enjoy breathtaking views from Mount Etna, and conclude your trip in Catania with its striking Baroque architecture and bustling markets.
Trip Notes: Travel by train and ferry between towns for a seamless experience through Italy’s cultural and natural wonders.
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.

Ruins & Mediterranean Shores

14-day journey through Southern Italy & Sicily exploring history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Morocco

Fes In the Folds of Time

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

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 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.

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.

Embark on a historical journey at Silves Castle, a prominent Moorish fortress in the Algarve. Perched atop a hill in the town of Silves, this castle is a testament to the region's rich Islamic and Christian heritage. Known for its distinctive red sandstone walls and remarkable preservation, the castle offers an insightful glimpse into the Algarve's past. Top highlights:
- Moorish Architecture and Restoration: Silves Castle, primarily built during the Moorish occupation between the 8th and 13th centuries, stands as a classic example of Islamic military architecture. Over the years, the castle has undergone extensive restoration, including the repair of its walls and the establishment of a municipal museum.
- Impressive Structures: The castle features an irregular polygon shape, complete with four towers and seven crenellated posts, linked by walls with battlements. Notable structures within the castle include the Cistern of Moura and the Cisterna dos Cães, both historic water supply systems.
- Historic Interior: The castle's interior is equally fascinating, with halls covered in painted wood and various historic artifacts. The Governor's residence, believed to have been used by Prince Henry, showcases foundations and remnants of a spacious living room with a vaulted ceiling.
- Botanical Garden: Within the old Governor's garden, a botanical garden has been created, reflecting the Portuguese Discoveries period. This garden adds a serene and educational element to the castle visit, blending history with natural beauty.
Silves Castle is open to visitors year-round and the town of Silves itself is rich in history, offering additional attractions such as the Gothic Silves Cathedral and the Archaeological Museum. Exploring the town, you'll find traces of its Moorish past and the impact of the 1755 earthquake. The castle is easily accessible by car, and it's recommended to visit by this means due to limited public transportation options.
Photo by Tommy Cornilleau


Moorish Silves Castle

Stepping into Piazza San Marco, with the majestic Basilica at its eastern end, is unforgettable. Napoleon described it as 'the finest drawing room in Europe'. 5 top reasons to visit:
 
1: Historical Evolution: In the Piazza, imagine, Venice in the 9th century, as St. Mark's Square was first established. It wasn't until the 12th century that it expanded to its current size under Doge Sebastiano Ziani. Around you, the Byzantine Saint Mark’s Basilica stands as a testament to Venice's rich history, originally founded in 828 AD to house the relics of Saint Mark, brought from Alexandria.

2: Architectural Marvel of the Basilica: Be awe-struck by the basilica's ornate façades and the intricate mosaics that adorn its domes, the grandeur of which reflects Venice's interaction with Byzantium and the East. The basilica is a harmonious blend of Middle-Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic styles, with Islamic influences evident in its artful display of polychrome marble columns and intricate designs.

3: Artistic Treasures Within: As you enter the basilica, you’ll be greeted by the shimmering gold-ground mosaics depicting saints, prophets, and biblical scenes. These mosaics, which represent eight centuries of artistic styles, include works based on drawings by Renaissance artists like Titian and Tintoretto, showcasing the basilica's role as a repository of Venetian art and history.

4: Treasury and Tomb of Saint Mark: The Treasury houses a collection of precious objects, including pieces looted from Constantinople, while the marble inlays on the floor, with designs of peacocks and roosters, add to the basilica's splendor. And there, in the crypt, lies the body of St. Mark.

5: The Campanile and Clocktower: As you explore the square, don't miss the Campanile, the towering bell tower, and the St. Mark's Clocktower. The queue to climb up is usually long, but offers a magnificent view.

Visiting St. Mark's Basilica and Square is unmissable when in Venice. 

Photo by Gabriele Rampazzo

Piazza San Marco and Basilica

Namibia

The stuff that dreams are made of! Photographers’ dreams, and travelers’ dreams. Surreal and in shades of orange. “Vlei” is Afrikaans for a depression filled with water - well, it was once - but as the name suggests, this vlei has been dry for a very long time. 

Dead Vlei, Namibia. A kaleidoscope of yellow and orange sands (the latter washed down the Orange River from the Kalahari Desert) and the white of the stunning vleis!

50 shades of sand

Just 30 kilometers from Marrakech, Ourika Valley is a refreshing retreat into the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains, offering scenic landscapes, rushing waterfalls, and traditional Berber villages. The valley is known for its cool mountain air, lush greenery, and riverside cafés, making it a popular getaway from the heat and bustle of the city. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day trip or an active hiking adventure, Ourika Valley is the perfect blend of nature and culture.

1. A hike to the Setti Fatma waterfalls takes visitors along rocky trails and wooden bridges, leading to a series of cascading falls surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views.

2. A traditional Berber market in Tnine Ourika, held every Monday, fills the village with colorful stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and fragrant spices, offering a lively glimpse into local life.

3. A visit to a women’s argan oil cooperative showcases the traditional methods of extracting Morocco’s famous argan oil, with opportunities to sample and purchase natural beauty products.

4. A scenic riverside lunch at a local café allows visitors to enjoy Moroccan dishes like tagine and mint tea while dipping their feet in the cool, flowing water of the Ourika River.

5. A drive through the valley in spring reveals cherry and almond blossoms in full bloom, creating a breathtaking contrast against the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains.

Tips for Visiting
The best time to visit is spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) for mild temperatures and lush scenery. Wearing sturdy shoes is recommended for hiking the waterfalls. Arriving early in the morning helps avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Bringing cash is useful for shopping in markets and small villages, where card payments are rarely accepted.

Photo: imag3s 4 U

Ourika Valley

Essaouira, Morocco, is home to the Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah Museum, a cultural treasure housed in an 18th-century Riad within the city’s medina. Named after the founder of Essaouira, the museum offers an in-depth look at the city’s rich history, blending Berber, Arab, African, and European influences. Its collection of traditional art, musical instruments, historic manuscripts, and ancient pottery provides a fascinating insight into Essaouira’s diverse cultural heritage.

1. The museum’s exhibits showcase traditional Moroccan crafts, including intricate woodwork, woven textiles, and finely crafted jewelry from the surrounding regions.

2. Explore a collection of Gnawa musical instruments and learn about the city’s unique connection to this mystical genre of spiritual music, which blends African and Berber traditions.

3. The museum’s architecture itself is a highlight, featuring elegant arches, Andalusian-style courtyards, and beautifully tiled walls that reflect the craftsmanship of the era.

4. Discover a range of archaeological artifacts, including ancient coins, pottery, and tools that shed light on Essaouira’s role as a vital port city over the centuries.

5. Exhibits dedicated to maritime history tell the story of Essaouira’s importance as a trading hub between Africa, Europe, and the Arab world.

Visitor Tip: Visit in the morning to enjoy quieter galleries and take advantage of the soft natural light streaming through the museum’s open courtyards. Afterward, explore the nearby Skala de la Ville for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Essaouira’s historic ramparts.

Photos: Vincenzo Montagna

Sidi Mohammed Museum

Nafplio, Greece, is home to the Akronafplia Castle Ruins, the oldest fortress in the city, offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into Nafplio’s layered history. Originally built by the Greeks and expanded by the Venetians and Ottomans, the fortress served as a defensive stronghold and later as a prison. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of ancient walls, stone pathways, and hidden towers while enjoying panoramic views of Nafplio’s Old Town, the Argolic Gulf, and the Palamidi Fortress.

1. The ancient stone walls and battlements offer a glimpse into Nafplio’s long history of occupation, blending Greek, Venetian, and Ottoman architectural influences.

2. Several hidden viewpoints throughout the ruins provide stunning panoramic views of the Argolic Gulf, Bourtzi Fortress, and surrounding mountains.

3. The old prison ruins, once used during Greece’s early modern period, add a layer of historical intrigue to the site.

4. A peaceful walking path leads visitors through wildflowers, olive trees, and Mediterranean shrubs, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

5. The castle’s lesser-known status compared to Palamidi Fortress makes it a quieter spot for reflection, exploration, and uninterrupted photography.

Visitor Tip: Visit during sunset for spectacular golden-hour views over Nafplio’s harbor. Wear sturdy shoes, as some paths are uneven and rocky. Bring water, as there are no facilities within the ruins.

Photos: Dmytro Dovgan

Akronafplia Castle Ruins

Balos Lagoon is a breathtakingly beautiful beach on the northwestern coast of Crete, known for its turquoise waters, pink-tinged sands, and striking natural scenery. Surrounded by rugged hills, this idyllic spot is accessible by a scenic hike or a boat ride, making it a perfect destination for those seeking an escape into nature’s finest.
1. The lagoon’s shallow turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and ideal for families with children.
2. Its unique pink sand, created by crushed shells, adds a surreal touch to the beach.
3. The area offers a stunning contrast between the vivid water, white sand, and dramatic rocky terrain.
4. Visitors can hike down to the beach, enjoying panoramic views along the way.
5. For a more leisurely approach, ferries from Kissamos provide easy access to this natural paradise.

Visitor Tip: Bring sturdy shoes for the hike and plenty of water, as there are limited facilities at the lagoon.  Photo: Sergey Dzyuba

Balos Lagoona

Joshua Tree National Park | United States

Forty-five minutes from Palm Springs – or a slightly longer, two hours from Los Angeles - in California’s southernmost Joshua Tree National Park, I’m waiting at the Visitor Center to buy my park pass, and it’s clear that the most commonly asked question of the rangers in this Park is - “Why is it called a Joshua Tree?"

Turns out the giant, branching yucca’s shape reminded early Mormon settlers of a story in which the Prophet Joshua reaches his hands up to the sky. “A good Joshua Tree will be really thick, with arms sticking out like they’re wearing furry sleeves.” – From The Bulletin, in a 1987 article, 7 years before the trees got themselves their own National Park. 

No two Joshua Trees are alike – for that would be too boring. Instead, they defiantly withstand the desert conditions and stretch out in weird and wonderful ways. 

Great hikes, photography, star-gazing. 

[🌵]

Weird and Wonderful

The narrow, bustling alleys illuminated by rays of light filtering through makeshift coverings are a common sight in the Medina of Fes, where the blend of shadow and light creates a mysterious and historical ambiance, perfect for exploring on foot. It's an excellent depiction of daily life within the heart of Fes, showcasing the energy and the dense social fabric of this ancient city.

The contrast between the high-heeled boots that seem to be the footwear of choice for young women in wintertime and how Fes is rooted in time is a stark contrast of the past, present, and future that all exist. Marrakech’s medina had felt medieval, but it cannot compare with the proud, faded, crumbling, stately stance of Fes. The architecture is more intricate, the medersas older, the beliefs stauncher, and the passages more secretive.

I step aside just in time as I hear the chant – “Balak, balak” (watch out, watch out) – and a mule laden with fruits saunters past. Mules aren’t officially allowed, says my guide Karima, pointing to a sign at one of the doors of the medina. She’s taken it upon herself to quiz me about Arabic words. What is ‘door’ in Arabic? That’s easy, I say, pointing to the sign at one of the medina entrances, Bab ____ (pronounced not unlike the name ‘Bob’!).

The most memorable sound? Place Seffarine, a square known for its rhythmic orchestra: metal clanging on metal, non-stop throughout the day. Under the protection of a centuries-old tree, talented craftsmen hammer and sculpt copper pots and pans in cacophonous harmony. We sipped mint tea and people-watched, entranced, for a whole hour.

Fes Medina: Bab To Bab

There’s not much that has changed in this Square in its millennium of existence. 

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of what you’ll find: Percussionists, Acrobats, Fortune-tellers, Conjurers, Gnawa musicians, Henna tattoo artists, Food Vendors, Snake charmers, Potion peddlers, Un-winnable carnival games. 

As dusk settles over Marrakech, look up at the sky. Follow the direction of what looks like a bonfire of epic proportions. When you manage to edge past the thousands of people, you realize it’s only smoke from kebabs and snails at over a hundred barbecue stalls, staffed by some of the busiest chefs and unflappable crews you’ll ever see.

Look around the Square and locate a restaurant with a balcony. Buy a glass of mint tea and grab a coveted plastic chair at the edge of the balcony to see the grand view of the world’s largest human tableau play out below.

Glorious Mayhem

Covering a vast area, İzmir Wildlife Park is one of Europe’s largest and most ethical zoos, offering naturalistic habitats for its diverse array of animals. Home to elephants, lions, giraffes, and more, the park emphasizes education and conservation while providing an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
1. The park is home to over 120 species, including iconic animals like elephants and lions.
2. Spacious enclosures mimic the animals’ natural habitats, ensuring their well-being.
3. Interactive zones, such as petting areas, are especially popular with children.
4. Educational programs and exhibits offer valuable insights into wildlife conservation.
5. Playgrounds and picnic areas make it a family-friendly destination.
Visitor Tip: Arrive early to catch the animals during their most active hours, especially in the summer months.

İzmir Wildlife Park

Faroe Islands

Getting there on a little ferry tossed around on the surging Atlantic Ocean needs courage. As the boat uses all her resources to maneuver into a tight, rocky harbor, I wonder if the captain, who does this twice a day, is either extremely brave or completely suicidal. We step on to what looks like the sets of a Disney fantasy movie. Twenty colorful grass-roofed homes, one little schoolhouse - which has one child - and a bridge over the Atlantic.

I meet my guide Harald - a septuagenarian with poise to rival the curious sheep we see hanging precariously over the cliffs. Harald leads our little group on a 4-hour hike across the island to the lighthouse at the westernmost point of the Faroes.

Birds are everywhere - puffins, fulmars, kittiwakes, gannets - on the green hills, riding the ocean waves, occupying every inch of cliff space, filling the air with their calls, and circling the sky.

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