Search immersive, experiential travel and best travel experiences with Fernwayer. Discover unique tours by location, interest, or dates.

Portugal

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.

Discover the fascinating history of Funchal, Madeira’s capital, while learning the basics of photography on this photo walking tour through the heart of the city. The Portuguese island has long been a hub for photographers – in 1865, it welcomed Portugal’s first photography studio, now turned into a museum.

Accompanied by a local photographer, you’ll begin facing the Atlantic at Funchal’s Marina, then wander through the Zona Velha, the city’s oldest district, home to the iconic Lavradores Market, where tropical fruit stalls, fishmongers, and flower vendors come together. The tour continues along the cathedral and the municipal garden with plenty of stops to take in the architecture and the island’s unique flora. Along the way, you’ll hear how Madeira has evolved from a sugarcane and wine producer to a therapeutic haven and modern holiday destination. 

The experience ends at a local café, offering a chance to unwind, review your images, and exchange thoughts on your favorite shots.

Many walking tours of Funchal cover the city’s historical landmarks, but few focus on photography. This experience does both: you’ll trace Funchal’s layered history while engaging with its present through the lens of your camera. The city has had a connection with photography since the mid-19th century, when its strategic location along the Atlantic brought in new technologies and artists with ships docking from Europe and beyond. Madeira became home to some of Portugal’s earliest professional studios — most notably the Vicente family atelier, active for over a century and now preserved as the Madeira Photography Museum.

Beyond the museum, you’ll stop at popular landmarks, covering the city’s historic and artistic evolution. Marta, a local photographer, has spent endless hours walking through Funchal with her camera. She’ll show you her favorite spots, share techniques on composition and light, and help you frame Madeira’s capital through your eyes.

Photography Tour of Funchal, Madeira, stopping at the old town and other popular landmarks.

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

Funchal Through The Lens

Guided walking tour through Funchal’s historic center with a local photographer.

Stops at key landmarks including Funchal Marina, Zona Velha, Lavradores Market, the cathedral, and municipal garden.

Visit to the courtyard of Portugal’s first photography studio, now a museum.

Personalized photography instruction and tips tailored to beginners.

Coffee and local snacks at a neighborhood café to close the experience.

Time to review images and discuss favorite shots with your guide.

Comfortable walking shoes
Camera or smartphone with a good camera
Spare batteries and memory cards
Weather-appropriate clothing
Water bottle

Meet Marta at Funchal Marina (see exact address on the map).

Marta is a local photographer with a deep passion for Funchal, her adopted hometown. Fluent in both Polish and English, she brings a unique perspective—combining the curiosity of an outsider with the insight of someone who’s spent time exploring the city’s inner corners. She began by leading historical walking tours, guiding visitors through Funchal’s historical landmarks. Over time, she felt drawn to share her other passion for photography. Now, she brings both worlds together. With a strong foundation in photographic history and a keen eye for everyday beauty, Marta helps you slow down, connect with your surroundings, and capture the city with intention. 

Japan

Join photographer Lee Chapman to explore Tokyo beyond the glitz, where normal Tokyoites live normal lives. Free of tourist-focused attractions, these cities within the city hold their own charm and personalities often linked to their historical origins from over a century ago.

Lee will take you through three or four distinctly different neighborhoods of Western Tokyo, depending on your pace and stamina. In each neighborhood, he'll take you to some hidden highlights and instruct you on how to capture some fleeting moments in these ever-changing environments.

Throughout the walk, Lee will share his deep knowledge of the history of these locations and give you expert tips on photographing them: composition, technique, and waiting for the decisive moment.

Along the way, pop into a small local cafe or coffee shop to enjoy a taste of the small city.

Lee has been leading tours of "regular" Tokyo for over a decade, focusing on neighborhoods rarely mentioned in guidebooks or on social media. His amiable personality has helped him make friends with total strangers, a skill that will be on display throughout your time with him.

Lee uses his familiarity with Tokyo to curate a tour through some of Western Tokyo's most interesting neighborhoods. Visit disappearing places like shopping streets, mom-and-pop grocers, and tiny bars , occasionally interacting with local residents and getting them to pose for impromptu street portraits.
If you choose to visit Tokyo for its famous attractions and incredible array of shopping, this tour will help give you a holistic experience of the city from the perspective of local residents, taking home precious photos to remember from your time with Lee.

Photowalk in Tokyo capturing the vitality of daily life in one of the city's diverse neighborhoods.

Cities Within the City

A short rest break during the experience for coffee or other similar refreshment at a small local establishment.

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

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

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

Meet Lee at the South Exit ticket gate of Araiyakushi-Mae Station on the Seibu Shinjuku train line.

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

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

Spain

This 8 hour high-end experience takes you deep into Seville’s culture and history, all led by a cast of local historians and experts.

You’ll start with two of Seville’s most important architectural landmarks: the Alcázar and the Cathedral. You'll then slip into spaces off the tourist path, such as private areas of Seville's historic City Hall, a private palace still lived in today, and a sacred brotherhood's richly decorated chapel - a "jewel box" that is almost never seen by outsiders.

Along the way, your host will contextualize the city's Catholic, Moorish, and Jewish legacies, overlap, exchange, and transformation. You’ll walk through the old city on a route of nunneries, where you’ll taste pastries made by cloistered sisters.

The experience closes with one or two musical interludes, depending on availability: watch a flamenco artist rehearse and/or sit in on the Seville Symphony Orchestra (ROSS) rehearsal—with a brief meet-and-talk with the conductor when schedules allow.

If you have just one day in Seville and want a deep, curated view of its cultural and spiritual life, this is the tour to do. You’ll enter private spaces rarely open to visitors, from a working private palace home to sacred spaces. You’ll move through Seville’s layers of identity — Catholic brotherhoods, Muslim heritage, Jewish quarter, artistic revival — with each site offering a new perspective.

You’ll also engage directly with Seville’s living culture. The pastries of the convents, the private flamenco conversation, engagement with a classical conductor, and personal encounters make this more than an architectural or historical experience — it’s emotional, sensorial, and human. The day is designed for those who want Seville not just in snapshots, but in memory and meaning.

With private transport and expert guidance, this experience is seamless and immersive for travelers looking to understand Seville on a deeper level.

Sit down to a carefully curated Sevillian lunch that captures the flavors of Andalusia in one meal. While the set meal may differ based on seasonality, here is what a typical lunch includes: Begin with salmorejo, Seville’s iconic chilled tomato soup, served with a topping of hard-boiled egg and jamón ibérico, alongside crisp, golden croquetas. For the main course, enjoy arroz marinero, a seafood rice dish infused with the flavors of the coast. Dessert is a creamy cheesecake, balancing tradition with indulgence. One drink of your choice — beer, wine, soft drink, or water — is included.

If you have food restrictions, let Reyes know in advance when you make the booking. 

This set meal offers a snapshot of Seville’s culinary identity in a single sitting. Each dish reflects local tastes and traditions, from the refreshing simplicity of salmorejo to the depth of seafood rice. Paired with a glass of Spanish wine or beer, the menu balances heritage with conviviality — the way Sevillanos have gathered for centuries: around food, stories, and shared time at the table.

Seville lunch experience with salmorejo, jamón ibérico, croquetas, seafood rice and more.

A Sevillian Table

Continue on foot through Seville’s quieter streets. Stop at a nunnery or two, where you’ll try their handmade pastries and learn about the cloistered traditions that keep this culinary legacy alive. You’ll witness the magic of the Symphony Orchestra as they rehearse, and meet and greet its conductor - or hear a flamenco artist present a personal reflection on the art — not a show, but a storytelling performance about how flamenco shapes identity and belonging in Seville.

Rather than checking off more sites, this final stage is about texture and feeling. From convent kitchens to conversations with artists, you’ll access stories and rituals that rarely make it into guidebooks. The combination of place, voice, and flavor leaves you with a full-bodied experience of Seville’s heart and soul.

Enjoy cloistered convent pastries, a classical musical rehearsal, and a personal flamenco interlude.

Sweet Traditions & Living Art

Begin your day with guided visits to the Real Alcázar and Seville Cathedral. At the Alcázar, explore its mix of Christian and Mudéjar architecture, tracing the layering of Islamic and European aesthetics. Then enter the vast Gothic cathedral and learn about its transformation from mosque to church, including Christopher Columbus’ tomb and the Giralda tower.

Rather than rushing through, your guide will connect these two icons to the living history of Seville — from Almohad foundations to modern-day rituals. You’ll receive interpretive insight into details most visitors miss, and your ticket includes skip-the-line access and quiet time to absorb the atmosphere.

Explore Seville's most iconic landmarks — the Alcázar and the Cathedral — with expert insight.

The Royal and the Sacred

You’ll be granted rare access to normally off-limits parts of Seville’s City Hall — an important civic building rich with Renaissance detail. Next, visit a private palace still lived in today, where your host will walk you through intimate spaces layered with art, furniture, and family history. Finally, step into a brotherhood chapel closed to the public, a jewel-like space used for devotional preparation during Semana Santa.

These locations are not open to regular tourists. Each stop is made possible through local relationships and reflects a different facet of Seville’s cultural infrastructure — political, aristocratic, and spiritual. Your guide will help unpack the aesthetics and the symbolism embedded in each site.

Step into private spaces, from City Hall chambers to an active palace and secret chapel.

Behind Closed Doors

Cultural Tour in Seville, ideal for first-timers: Alcázar, Cathedral, hidden places, music and food.

Seville's Inner Light

Guided visits to the Alcázar and Seville Cathedral.

Access to private spaces: historic City Hall, a private palace, and a brotherhood chapel.

Walk through old city sites with expert historical commentary.

Tasting of pastries from a working nunnery.

Lunch at a typical seafood restaurant with .wine or beer (can be adjusted for dietary restrictions)

Musical interludes: flamenco rehearsal and/or Seville Symphony (ROSS) with possible artist meet-and-greet.

Coffee with live music.

This experience involves a lot of walking, so please wear comfortable footwear. Seville can be very warm and sunny, you may want to bring extra water.

Reyes will arrange for you to be picked up at your accommodation in Seville. Chat with her post-booking to provide her your hotel details. 

Your host is a seasoned cultural expert, deepy embedded in Seville's flamenco traditions, with years of experience guiding visitors through the vibrant world of flamenco. Along the way, you'll also meet a member of a local Catholic Brotherhood, who will elucidate the role of religion in the city, a conductor of a symphony orchestra, and a flamenco performer. Each of these local experts will bring distinct parts of Seville's culture and history to life, giving you deep cultural inights far beyond the typical tourist trail.

This immersive day trip from Porto invites you into the heart of Terra de Miranda, a culturally rich and ecologically pristine region in Northeast Portugal. Guided by a naturalist photographer and a cultural researcher, you'll explore ancient chestnut groves, oak and holm oak forests, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Serra da Nogueira and the Spanish mountains of Sanabria and Culebra. 

The program changes with the season but may include swimming in rivers and natural pools during summer, autumn forest walks, and winter snowshoeing. Along the way, you'll encounter local wildlife such as roe deer and wild boar, and witness traditional practices like bagpipe music and the Pauliteiros stick dance before your scenic ride back to Porto.

This journey offers an authentic immersion into the living traditions and natural splendor of Terra de Miranda. You'll engage directly with local artisans, witnessing the crafting of wooden carnival masks and the rehearsal of traditional dances accompanied by the gaita mirandesa, a unique bagpipe recognized by the Portuguese Ministry of Culture.

The experience is enriched by the expertise of your hosts: Alexandra Melo, who has dedicated nearly two decades to preserving inland Portuguese crafts, and António Sá, a seasoned naturalist and photographer with deep roots in the region (whose photos illustrate this experience). Their insights provide a profound connection to the land's heritage, ensuring a meaningful and respectful exploration of this untouched corner of Portugal, home to the country's second official language, Mirandese.

A guided walk through centuries-old chestnut, oak, and holm oak forests, identifying roe deer tracks, wild boar wallows, and learning about the local ecosystem.

Led by a professional naturalist who grew up exploring these forests, offering a rare, authentic insight into local biodiversity.

Guided walk through ancient forests to observe local wildlife and flora.

Forest Exploration & Wildlife 

Departure from central Porto with private transport, heading into the remote landscapes of Northeast Portugal.

The drive introduces you to the transition from bustling city life to the peaceful rhythm of one of Portugal’s most untouched regions.

Private transport from Porto into the heart of Terra de Miranda.


Porto to Terra de Miranda

Enjoy a traditional Mirandese lunch, featuring dishes like posta mirandesa (grilled beef), local beans, seasonal vegetables, and homemade desserts. The meal is served in a cozy, family-run spot where the focus is on local flavor and hospitality.

This is an introduction to the region’s food culture through recipes passed down through generations and prepared with ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Beyond the meal, you'll engage in conversations about local customs, food traditions, and daily life.

Share a regional meal prepared with local ingredients in a family-run setting.

Traditional Lunch

Attend a local rehearsal of the Pauliteiros de Miranda, featuring vibrant stick dancing and traditional bagpipe music.

This direct, behind-the-scenes access to a living cultural heritage is rarely available to visitors.

Experience the rehearsal of the traditional Pauliteiros stick dance.

Pauliteiros Dance Rehearsal

Relaxed return trip back to Porto with private transport.

An opportunity to reflect on the experience while crossing some of Portugal’s most beautiful and remote countryside.

Private return transport to Porto after an unforgettable immersion in Terra de Miranda.

Return Transport to Porto

Visit a local workshop where colorful wooden masks are meticulously carved for Carnival celebrations.

A chance to interact directly with master artisans preserving one of Portugal's rarest cultural crafts.

Discover the craft of traditional wooden carnival masks with a local artisan.

Artisanal Mask Workshop Visit

Day Trip from Porto to Terra de Miranda: Explore folk dancing, masks, wildlife & nature photography.

The Wild Northeast

Guided exploration of chestnut groves, oak and holm oak forests in Miranda do Douro & surrounding areas.

Seasonal outdoor activities such as river swimming (summer), autumn forest walks, or winter snowshoeing.

Wildlife observation of species like roe deer and wild boar.

Cultural encounters including traditional bagpipe music and the Pauliteiros stick dance.

Regional lunch featuring local Mirandese cuisine.

Pick-up from Porto and transportation throughout.

Comprehensive insurance coverage.

Comfortable walking shoes suitable for forest trails and uneven terrain
Layered clothing to adapt to seasonal changes (warm layers for autumn and winter; light clothing for summer)
Waterproof jacket, especially in the autumn and winter months
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection
Reusable water bottle
Camera or smartphone for photography (optional: binoculars for wildlife observation)
Small backpack for carrying personal items during excursions

You will be picked up from your hotel or accommodation in Porto. After booking, chat with Alexandra to share your accommodation details.

Alexandra Melo is a former journalist turned entrepreneur, dedicating the past 18 years to researching and preserving genuine Portuguese crafts and traditions, particularly in inland Portugal. Her deep understanding of the region's cultural heritage enriches the experience with authentic insights.​

António Sá is a naturalist, freelance reporter, and photography instructor with a lifelong connection to the Bragança region. His expertise in nature and storytelling offers participants a profound appreciation of the local environment and its narratives.​

Mexico

Medellín Market is one of Mexico City’s most culturally layered food hubs. Tucked into the Roma/Condesa area — known for its art nouveau facades and leafy streets—the market has stood for more than 150 years as a neighborhood anchor and open-air meeting point. It hosts over 500 stalls and brings together ingredients and street foods from across Mexico and Latin America. Locals come here to shop for produce, source regional products, and eat tacos at stalls with decades-long followings.

Led by a local gastronomy expert, this experience takes you through the market’s maze of stalls and taquerías, sharing insights about Mexican ingredients and the stories behind them. You’ll try several types of tacos—carnitas, campechanos, and al pastor, including from the taquería that claims to have invented it.

These tacos provide rich and spicy sauces and tender, marinated meats. You’ll learn the stories behind these famous tacos that represent styles of cooking from all over the country.

While Condesa and Roma are known for boutique hotels and charming shops, Medellín Market is a century-old bastion of routine life — where locals still buy produce, tortillas and pantry essentials today. The market’s nixtamal tortillería is one of the few remaining in Mexico City still grinding corn daily — you’ll taste tortillas made minutes after the masa is prepared. This goes well beyond street food — it’s the foundation of Mexican cooking, and a meaningful beginning to appreciating tacos and regional flavors. This is a good tour to do at the start of your Mexico City visit, as it will give context to all the food you’ll try in the days ahead.

Besides visiting the market, your host will walk you through the surrounding streets, pointing out small, locally-loved, traditional spots. These are places loved by locals but often missed by visitors. In a city with over 400 mercados, Medellín retains authentic atmosphere and everyday relevance while offering rich flavor and social history.

Food Tour in Mexico City: Taste iconic tacos & tortillas at Medellín Market with a culinary expert.

Tacos of Medellín Market

Guided food tour of Medellín Market with a local gastronomy expert.

Tasting of multiple taco styles, including carnitas, campechanos, and al pastor.

Visit to the taquería that claims to have invented al pastor.

Insights into Mexican ingredients, cooking styles, and regional food traditions.

One agua fresca, soft drink, or beer included.

Filtered water and vendor tips fully covered throughout the tour.

Comfortable walking shoes, a big appetite, an umbrella during the rainy season (June through October).

The meeting point will be at the entrance to "Sixtie's Bar" in Avenida Sonora 210, Condesa.  

Along with Ariana Ruiz, Ángeles Pérez is dedicated to preserving and sharing Mexico’s diverse food traditions. Together, they lead food tours that combine hands-on care with deep regional knowledge—offering travelers meaningful insight into Mexico City’s culinary landscape.

You’ll be welcomed by one of Ángeles and Ariana’s trusted colleagues: a seasoned gastronomy expert, skilled in storytelling, generous with insight, and deeply familiar with the flavors and vendors of Medellín Market.

Italy

A 3-hour walking food tour through Rome's Trionfale neighborhood. One of Rome's first 15 quartieri, this neighborhood dates to the late 19th century Unification and early 20th century Fascist eras. Originally designed to house the large influx of Italians to the capital city of a newly founded Italy, the area grew to become a mecca for foodies thanks to its enormous food market amid traditional shops. 

We will begin the culinary adventure at a local café, and then explore the local market rich in history and authenticity and known for its over 200 stalls of local produce and delicacies; it’s a chance to engage with local vendors and artisans. A highlight of this tour is the chance to experience Rome's pizza expertise and how it transforms into an art form, with imaginative, fresh ingredients.

Visiting an authentic residential neighborhood of Rome allows you to experience how real Romans shop, eat and live.

Trionfale, Rome's fourteenth district, is steeped in history and transformation. Known for its unique street, named after the route that victorious Roman generals took, its houses boasts a distinctive numbering system linked to their distance from the Campidoglio. This neighborhood is away from the usual tourist route, and its historical significance and vibrant food market, provides an authentic backdrop to explore Rome's culinary culture. You’ll get a deeper understanding of the deep-rooted cultural and historical significance of various Roman foods and of Italian culinary artistry.

The private, customizable nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, allowing guests to explore their culinary interests and preferences in depth, guided by an expert who brings insights into the food, culture and history of Rome.

Food Tour in Rome, exploring Trionfale’s authentic neighborhood, its market, and local delicacies.

Truly Local Trionfale

This experience accommodates a minimum of 2 and maximum of 6 participants. Included: Coffee, pastries, pizza, tastings of cured meats and cheese, wine and gelato.


Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the neighborhood.
An appetite for indulging in Rome’s culinary delights.


We'll meet in front of the caffè La Fiorentina on via Andrea Doria 22. Metro A line to the Cipro stop!

The tour is led by a knowledgeable, local Italian guide, an expert in Roman culinary traditions and the rich history of the Trionfale neighborhood. You’ll be assured of an engaging and informative insider experience in an area not used to seeing tourists. 

Türkiye

Set out on an extraordinary photography tour through Istanbul's historic neighborhoods of Vefa and Süleymaniye. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to capture the rich history and visual splendor of these remarkable neighborhoods, street photos and daily life in the city. 

Our journey begins in Vefa, a neighborhood steeped in history, architectural grandeur and timeless charm. You'll photograph Ottoman-era mansions, ancient mosques, and charming cobblestone streets, with scenes that reflect its unique character. Highlights a former Byzantine church now serving as a mosque, and Istanbul's oldest boza shop.

We then proceed to the magnificence of Süleymaniye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece by Mimar Sinan. Here, you'll capture the grandeur of its domes, intricate details, and serene courtyards. The surrounding areas offer perspectives of the mosque amidst traditional wooden houses and madrasas.

This tour guides you through lesser-explored neighborhoods with their historical grandeur and cultural depth intact. Beyond the renowned landmarks, your guide will share hidden gems and offer cultural insights that add depth to your photography. 

In Vefa, you'll discover stunning architecture in a well-preserved neighborhood – including hidden gems like the city's second-oldest library, old mansions, and vibrant markets, unique scenes that reflect the neighborhood’s distinct character.

In Süleymaniye, you’ll photograph the iconic mosque from the best vantage points to capture its awe-inspiring beauty, you'll also explore narrow streets lined with traditional Ottoman houses, some recognized by UNESCO for their historical significance. This setting offers a rich tapestry of cultural and architectural elements, providing ample opportunities for compelling compositions.

Street Photography in Istanbul’s historic Vefa & Süleymaniye: Ottoman heritage, mosques, daily life.

In Focus: Vefa & Süleymaniye

Expert photography guidance tailored to your skill level.

Tea, coffee, boza (a malt drink made by fermenting corn and wheat, one of the oldest Turkic beverages) and a traditional snack to enjoy during the tour.

Your camera with a wide angle lens (e.g., 16-35 mm for full frame), a general use lens (e.g., 24-70 mm for full frame), and a telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200 mm for full frame), extra batteries. 

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

We'll meet in front of Bozdoğan Aqueduct. After booking, you can connect via Fernwayer Chat to ask for directions regarding the meeting point.

Cenk Gençdiş is a renowned Turkish photographer, educator, and visual storyteller with over 30 years of experience capturing Istanbul’s ever-changing light, movement, people, and culture. His work has been published in prestigious magazines, and his expertise has shaped countless photographers through his books, workshops, and exhibitions. Beyond technical mastery, he is a passionate storyteller and a warm, inspiring guide, helping people see beyond the lens to capture the emotions and narratives woven into each frame.

On this off-the-beaten path photography tour, Cenk blends history, culture, and visual storytelling, guiding you to the best vantage points while offering insights that transform your approach to photography. You’ll leave with extraordinary images and a deeper insight into Istanbul's heritage.

This rare-access experience is a private photoshoot with a real Maiko — a young woman apprenticing to become a Geisha. Maiko are renowned for their colorful kimono, elaborately styled hair, and refined manners. Most visitors are lucky to catch even a fleeting glimpse of them as they move quickly through Kyoto’s streets between appointments. Recent regulations protect Maiko from unwanted attention from tourists. But in this experience, you’ll have the privilege of spending relaxed, uninterrupted time photographing and engaging with a Maiko.

The photo shoot takes place at Chionsha, a one-of-a-kind heritage house in Kyoto – the perfect, atmospheric backdrop for the session. Under the guidance of a professional expert photographer, you’ll learn how to use both natural and artificial light to create evocative portraits. You'll also practice how to work with a live subject — learning and practicing how to pose and frame your subject to evoke emotion and tell a story through your lens. 

This fully private session offers an extraordinary opportunity to interact with a Maiko while learning professional portraiture techniques. An entire historic house in Kyoto is reserved exclusively for your session — offering creative freedom to explore light, setting and subject. You’ll learn techniques unique to photographing a Maiko, and portraiture skills you can apply to other subjects in the future. Your host will bring professional lighting equipment and teach you how to use it alongside the soft natural light within the space.

Throughout the workshop, you’ll be able to engage the Maiko in conversation through an interpreter — learning about her life and aspirations, her rigorous training and daily schedule, and skills she must master before becoming a full-fledged Geisha. 

Whether you’re an experienced photographer or enthusiastic amateur, this experience offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with a cultural icon and take home lasting memories of Kyoto.

Photography Workshop in Kyoto with rare access to a Maiko, apprentice Geisha, in a heritage house.

Portrait of a Maiko

A real Maiko as your model throughout the photoshoot.

Professional portrait photography workshop led by an expert photographer.

Private access to a historical Kyoto house reserved exclusively for your session.

Use of professional lighting equipment and instruction in artificial & natural light techniques.

Interpreter to facilitate meaningful conversation with the Maiko.

Transportation from your hotel to the heritage location.

To get the most from your workshop, your host recommends bringing:
A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls
An 18–55mm zoom lens (for crop sensor cameras) or a 24–70mm zoom lens (for full-frame cameras)
A fixed 50mm or 85mm lens (full-frame equivalent) — ideal for portraiture
A zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 or wider, if available
Note: A tripod is not necessary.

Bring a bottle of water or coffee, as the heritage location is not set up for food or beverage service

Your host will arrange to pick you up at your hotel or other location of your preference once the booking is confirmed. 

Your host Paul is an American photographer who has lived more than 24 years in Kyoto. A former daily newspaper photojournalist with more than 30 years of professional experience, Paul specializes in portraiture and slice-of-life photography and has photographed Kyoto's beauty and heritage from a variety of perspectives.

Whether you love to cook or simply appreciate the subtle flavors of Japanese cuisine, this private experience hosted by a Kyoto chef will satisfy your curiosity about the world of dashi, the foundational ingredient in most Japanese dishes. Hosted in his intimate restaurant, Chef Toshihiko Yamamoto will explain the history and importance of dashi in Japanese cooking while together, you prepare a fresh batch of dashi to use for an exquisite meal. You will shave the dried bonito into flakes and boil it with kombu kelp into a broth rich with umami flavor.

Next, Chef Yamamoto will prepare a special meal with a little help from you, creating Western-Japanese fusion dishes to show how easily dashi can be used as an ingredient to your own style of cuisine. As he prepares the meal, feel free to ask questions or take photos and video of the process. After the meal, the chef will prepare a bowl of matcha in the style of Omotesenke tea cermony, the perfect way to wrap up this unique experience.

With nearly a decade's experience working for a dashi company and years as a chef specializing in Italian cuisine, Chef Yamamoto brings a new perspective to the use of Japanese dashi in cuisine from other parts of the world. Rather than focusing solely on traditional Japanese dishes, he will show you how dashi can be used to creatively season other dishes, from wagyu beef to fried cheese.

This interactive experience allows you to participate in the dashi making process while getting a close-up view of a Japanese chef preparing a special private meal in his own restaurant. You'll also help with making some other simple dishes. While Chef Yamamoto speaks limited English, his friendly demeanor and passion for sharing the virtues of dashi with the world will make your time with him a pleasurable memory of Kyoto. Chef Yamamoto will also share his other interest, Japanese tea ceremony, wrapping up your time with a casual tea experience based on his practice of Omotesenke style tea ceremony.

Food Experience in Kyoto - Learn to make dashi and use it to create unique Japanese-Western cuisine.

Dashi: Japan’s Hidden Elixir

Unique multi-course lunch featuring Western-Japanese fusion dishes made from dashi, plus one drink.

Bowl of matcha to finish your experience time.

Special dashi-related gift from Chef Yamamoto to take home with you.

A good appetite for an unusual and delicious meal.
Because Chef Yamamoto speaks limited English, a translation device or other tool is recommended to allow you to engage in deeper conversation with him.

You will meet at Chef Yamamoto's restaurant, 麩屋町103 (Fuyacho 103). The location is on the ground floor at the back of the Daini fuyacho Building. The nearest subway stations are Karasuma Oike Station on the Karasuma Line and Kyoto-Shiyakusho-mae (Kyoto City Hall) Station on the Tozai Line. 

Chef Toshihiko Yamamoto runs his own restaurant in Kyoto, specializing in a refined version of oden, a traditional Japanese stew. With years of experience as both a chef and an employee of a dashi producing company, Chef Yamamoto is passionate about sharing the history and culture of dashi with a global audience and is excited to invite overseas guests to experience dashi in an intimate way that may inspire them to use it more often in their own cooking.

Chef Yamamoto is also a long-time practitioner of the Omotesenke school of Japanese tea ceremony, an interest that influences his cooking and design aesthetic.

Discover the intricate world of Ottoman style Miniature Art painting, a centuries-old art form rich in symbolism and storytelling. Originating from Persian and Ottoman traditions, miniature art was used to depict historical events, literature, and royal life with striking detail and vibrant colors. This immersive workshop, held in a private studio in the Fatih District, provides a rare opportunity to learn these traditional techniques under the guidance of a miniature art master.

Led by Şeyma Çınar, a certified expert in miniature and illumination arts, you will learn the essential techniques of Ottoman miniature painting, including fine detailing, color layering, and the traditional stylization of figures and landscapes. In this three-hour session, you will create your own miniature artwork, exploring the time-honored methods used in palace ateliers. Complemented by Turkish tea and snacks, this experience offers a deep cultural connection to Istanbul’s creative scene.

This workshop is one of the few short-format sessions that introduces Ottoman miniature painting in an accessible yet authentic way. Typically, mastering this art requires years of dedicated training, but this session provides a step-by-step introduction, designed to allow participants to complete a full artwork within three hours.

Miniature painting offers stillness through focus, tradition, and craft. Guided by a master, each brushstroke is an act of patience—rooting attention, quieting thought, and connecting past to present in a deeply enriching way.

Şeyma Çınar is a master artist with official recognition from Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The setting within a community-centered space further enhances its authenticity, allowing for a more immersive and meaningful artistic journey. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a curious traveler, this workshop offers an exclusive glimpse into an art form that has shaped Ottoman cultural identity for centuries.

Miniature Painting Workshop in Istanbul: Ottoman art, traditional techniques, and expert guidance.

Miniature Art by Şeyma

Guided introduction to Ottoman miniature painting.

Master artist led hands-on workshop with all necessary materials.

Turkish tea and traditional snacks.

Your finished miniature artwork to take home.

A camera to capture your creative process and comfortable clothing suitable for painting. No experience required.

This experience will take place at a studio inside the Fatih District Municipality Center. The address is marked on the map. Contact Şeyma via Chat after you book this experience if you have questions about how to reach the address from your hotel.

The host, Şeyma Çınar, is a master artist specializing in miniature art, Tezhip (Islamic illumination), and floral designs since 1998. With formal certification from Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, she has dedicated over 25 years to studying and teaching the intricate techniques of Ottoman miniature painting. Having participated in multiple exhibitions and published work on Islamic art, she brings both technical expertise and cultural depth to the workshop, ensuring participants leave with a rich understanding of this ancient craft. She will be accompanied by a translator, allowing everyone to fully engage with her insights and expertise.

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.

United States

Few cities offer so much color, culture, and character in just three days. This 3-day journey invites you into the textures of Valparaíso, from its murals and flavors to its rhythms and views. With a thoughtful mix of guided encounters and unhurried moments, it is designed for travelers who value creativity, connection, and depth.
DAY 1 – STREET ART AND CERAMICS | The day begins with a guided street art walk that weaves together mural stories, cultural memory, and local tastings. From bold facades to vibrant flavors, you explore the city’s history through both image and palate. In the afternoon, take time to rest or explore the viewpoints of Cerro Alegre before heading to Concón. There, a ceramic workshop invites you to create your own lucky clay pig in a bright studio facing the coast. After the session, stay for a seafood dinner by the ocean and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this quiet beach town.
DAY 2 – COOKING AND CITY SPACES | Spend the morning in the kitchen of a local chef learning traditional South American recipes in an engaging cooking class. After the shared meal, continue the day with a guided architecture walk through ten public spaces shaped by Valparaíso’s unique topography and social rhythms. From plazas and staircases to hillside viewpoints, the tour brings the city’s built environment into focus through design, memory, and daily use. Together, the experiences offer an intimate look at how people live, gather, and create in this layered urban landscape.
DAY 3 – PHOTOS AND FLAVORS BY NIGHT | Start your final day with a photography walk in Playa Ancha led by a local artist. The session offers both visual guidance and personal stories as you capture the neighborhood’s layered textures and views. After a break, close the journey with a guided golden-hour experience through Valparaíso’s bars and gathering spots. As day fades into evening, conversation, music and movement bring the spirit of the city to life one last time.
WHERE TO STAY IN VALPARAÍSO | Choose Cerro Alegre or Cerro Concepción for easy access to morning walks, cafes, street art, and guided tours. These central hills are where most travelers stay and offer a safe, vibrant atmosphere. For a quieter rhythm with a more local feel, Playa Ancha offers charm and calm just a short ride from 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.

Chile

Art to Coast in Valparaíso

3 days in Valparaíso blending street art, food, architecture, and coastal craft with local guides.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greece

Santorini in Quiet Rhythm

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

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.

Croatia

Stone, Sea, Story in Dubrovnik

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

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

Craft and Vine in the Douro

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

This 3-day South East Sicily itinerary is beautifully balanced — it flows from almond groves to ancient theaters, olive groves to volcanic slopes.

South East Sicily holds a rare kind of richness—where golden stone meets deep flavor, and ancient landscapes echo through everyday life. This three-day itinerary is designed to move slowly and purposefully through that corner of the island, where everything feels grounded: in sun, in story, in taste.

Day one opens in the almond groves and soft trails near Noto, where agriculture and antiquity intertwine. The afternoon invites you into the town itself, where the Baroque facades of Corso Vittorio Emanuele glow in the late light. You’ll walk among church domes and curved balconies, ending the day with gelato in hand and a quiet dinner in the countryside, surrounded by olive trees and silence.

On the second day, the rhythm shifts to the coast. Ortigia, the historic heart of Siracusa, offers a morning of light-soaked streets and briny market air. You'll taste olives grown nearby and move at the pace of a place shaped by centuries. In the late afternoon, you board a boat for a sunset sail along Ortigia’s edge—water, limestone, and shifting sky. The day closes with a table at Don Camillo, where tradition is honored, not preserved.

The final day takes you higher. Mount Etna commands the horizon and the imagination. You'll walk along its slopes, where vineyards thrive in black soil and steam rises from fissures just beneath your feet. Later, the calm of Taormina welcomes you down, offering views from its ancient Greek theater that stretch from mountain to sea. Dinner in town brings the journey full circle—flavors, views, and the quiet hum of Sicilian life.

This is Sicily in layers: cultivated, storied, and elemental. A region best experienced with open time, open senses, and a willingness to let its golden rhythm set your pace.

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.

Sicily’s Golden Corner

3-day itinerary in South East Sicily with Noto’s Baroque streets, Ortigia sailing, and Etna’s beauty

Naples may demand a lifetime to understand, but even in one day, it can leave a lasting mark. This journey was designed for travelers short on time yet eager to feel the city’s pulse — its contradictions, its stories, and its spirit of creation. Beneath the chaotic rhythm lies a place of beauty and resilience, where history is never past and craft remains a living language. From the depths of its underground world to the sunlit studios along the coast, this day reveals Naples as a city that continues to shape — and be shaped by — its people.
DAY 1 – UNDERGROUND AND HANDMADE | The day begins with The Belly of Naples, a guided exploration beneath the city’s streets with Michele Carneglia. Walking through ancient tunnels and aqueducts, you uncover the hidden layers that support the life above. After lunch, travel along the coast to Vietri sul Mare for Shaping Love with Clay, a hands-on pottery workshop with Elvira Peduto. In a single afternoon, Naples shifts from stone to softness — from history preserved to art created — offering a full-circle glimpse of its creative soul.
WHERE TO STAY IN NAPLES | Stay in Centro Storico to start close to the morning tour, or in Chiaia for an easy coastal route toward Vietri in the afternoon. Both offer quick returns and a sense 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.

One Day in Naples

Fernwayer’s perfect one day in Naples uncovers Naples underground tour and Amalfi ceramics.

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.

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.

Argentina

Tango to Andes in Argentina

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

Morocco

Near the bustling spice and perfume markets of Fes, Al-Attarine Madrasa stands as a monument to spiritual learning and architectural beauty. Built in 1325 by Sultan Uthman II, this madrasa is renowned for its intricate Islamic art and serene atmosphere, offering a profound glimpse into Morocco's scholarly past. Here are the top reasons to visit:

1: Begin your visit at the grand entrance, where the detailed Islamic calligraphy and geometric patterns immediately transport you to an era of profound intellectual and spiritual pursuit. This portal truly showcases the artistic mastery of the period.

2: The heart of Al-Attarine Madrasa is its courtyard, a sublime example of Moroccan-Andalusian architecture. The zellij tilework and carved cedar ceilings frame a space that has inspired students and visitors alike for centuries. It’s a perfect spot to feel the echo of scholarly discussions that once animated this space.

3: At the center of the courtyard, a marble fountain operates not just as a source of water but as a symbol of spiritual cleansing and reflection. Surrounded by an expanse of intricate tiles, the fountain invites visitors to pause and reflect, just as students did between their studies.

4: Venture into the student chambers that line the madrasa, where small, austere rooms speak volumes about the disciplined life of a scholar. These chambers, though simple, are imbued with the legacy of learning, each offering a personal connection to the past educators and students.

5: Climb to the upper floors for a panoramic view of the madrasa and the bustling streets of the Medina. This vantage point not only provides a breathtaking perspective of the intricate architectural details but also situates the madrasa within the vibrant life of Fes.

The site is open daily, there’s a small fee, and the morning light is particularly beautiful as it illuminates the zellij and wood carvings. 

Al-Attarine Madrasa

La Mamounia Gardens are a lush and tranquil oasis, blending natural beauty with elegant design, showcasing the best of Marrakesh's horticultural artistry and serene landscapes. These historic gardens, part of the luxurious La Mamounia Hotel, offer visitors a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Don't miss these must-see highlights:

1 - Wander through 20 acres of meticulously manicured gardens featuring a stunning array of plants, from ancient olive trees and towering palms to vibrant flowerbeds and fragrant orange blossoms. Each path leads to new vistas of natural beauty.

2 - The gardens date back to the 18th century, originally created as a gift to Prince Moulay Mamoun. Their rich history is woven into the design, reflecting traditional Moroccan gardening techniques and the influence of Islamic art and architecture.

3 - Admire the elegant fountains, charming pergolas, and serene ponds that dot the gardens. These design elements enhance the tranquil atmosphere, creating perfect spots for relaxation and reflection amidst the greenery.

4 - Throughout the year, the gardens showcase a variety of seasonal blooms and exotic plants. From the vibrant colors of spring flowers to the lush greenery of summer, each season offers a unique and captivating experience.

To fully appreciate the beauty of La Mamounia Gardens, consider taking a leisurely stroll in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the atmosphere is particularly serene. If you're a guest at La Mamounia Hotel, you can enjoy exclusive access to the gardens. Find more information on visiting and enjoying La Mamounia Gardens here: mamounia.com.

La Mamounia Gardens

Australia

Visiting Western Australia's Nambung National Park and the Pinnacles Desert is a must.

Located at the southern gateway to Australia's Coral Coast, along the Indian Ocean Drive, the Pinnacles Desert of Nambung National Park is one of the major natural attractions in the region and are Western Australia's most visited attractions.

The park is located roughly 200km, or 2 hours' drive north of Perth, and covers an area of 17,487 hectares providing natural habitat for an extensive array of native animals and bird life.

The Pinnacles are amazing natural limestone structures, formed approximately 25,000 to 30,000 years ago after the sea receded and left deposits of sea shells. Over time, coastal winds removed the surrounding sand, leaving the pillars exposed to the elements. The Pinnacles range in height and dimension - some stand as high as 3.5m!

Desert limestone formations

Antalya, Turkey, is home to the Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park, a hidden gem nestled within a lush pine forest just 20 km (12 miles) from the city center. This enchanting natural retreat features a cascading waterfall, turquoise pools, and scenic walking trails, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers. With its tranquil atmosphere, rich wildlife, and shaded picnic areas, Kurşunlu Waterfall is an ideal spot for a relaxing break from Antalya’s bustling coastline.

1. The main waterfall, cascading from 18 meters (59 feet) into an emerald-green lagoon, creates a stunning photo opportunity and a peaceful ambiance.

2. Scenic walking trails wind through the park, leading visitors past smaller waterfalls, wooden bridges, and hidden caves.

3. The park is home to rich wildlife, including turtles, fish, and various bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching and nature photography.

4. Shaded picnic areas allow visitors to enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by nature, with the sound of flowing water in the background.

5. Cool, refreshing air provides a welcome escape from Antalya’s summer heat, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Visitor Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the falls without crowds. Wear comfortable shoes, as some paths can be slippery, and bring insect repellent if visiting in the warmer months.

Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park

Palazzo Zuccari, located near the iconic Spanish Steps in Rome, stands out as a truly unique and whimsical architectural gem. Often referred to as the 'Monster House' due to its distinctive façade, this building is a delightful sight that never fails to bring a smile to those who pass by. 

The most striking feature of Palazzo Zuccari is its front door and window frames, designed to resemble giant monster faces. The doors and windows form the 'mouths', creating an amusing yet intriguing visual effect.

Palazzo Zuccari is a testament to Rome's architectural diversity and creativity. Its proximity to the Spanish Steps makes it an easy and worthwhile addition to any itinerary, ensuring visitors a charming and unusual experience in the heart of the Eternal City.

Monster House! Palazzo Zuccari

Antalya, Turkey, is home to Karaalioglu Park, a beautiful seaside park offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean, lush greenery, and a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets. Located near Kaleiçi (Old Town), the park is a favorite spot for locals and visitors to walk, relax, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets. With its scenic pathways, historical monuments, and charming cafés, Karaalioglu Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment by the sea.

1. Stunning clifftop views of the Mediterranean Sea, Antalya Bay, and the Taurus Mountains, making it one of the best places in the city for photography.

2. Hıdırlık Tower, a Roman-era watchtower that offers a glimpse into Antalya’s ancient history and serves as a scenic viewpoint.

3. Peaceful walking trails lined with palm trees, flower gardens, and shaded benches, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

4. Seaside cafés and tea gardens provide the perfect spot to sip Turkish tea while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.

5. Vibrant street performers and artists often gather in the park, adding to its lively yet laid-back charm.

Visitor Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to catch a spectacular sunset over the cliffs. For a complete experience, combine your visit with a walk through Kaleiçi (Old Town) or a stop at a nearby café for traditional Turkish coffee.

Photo: Gennady Zakharin

Karaalioglu Park

The Catedral de Barcelona is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that dominates the skyline of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, the cathedral is dedicated to Eulalia of Barcelona, a co-patron saint of the city, who suffered martyrdom during Roman times at the tender age of 13. Top reasons to visit include its breathtaking Gothic cloister, the panoramic views from the rooftop, and its rich history:
1: The cloister is a serene oasis home to 13 white geese, representing Saint Eulalia's age at her martyrdom. It's a perfect starting point to feel the cathedral's tranquil ambiance​​.
2: Climb to the rooftop terrace for spectacular panoramic views over Barcelona. This vantage point offers a unique perspective on the Gothic Quarter and the Mediterranean Sea​​.
3: The cathedral hosts an array of cultural events, concerts, and exhibitions. Its collection of historical artifacts, including the Custody made of gold and silver and adorned with jewels, highlights the cathedral's spiritual and artistic significance​​​​.
4: Beneath the high altar lies the crypt of Saint Eulalia, a solemn space that connects visitors with the cathedral's patroness and her martyrdom story, adding a layer of historical depth to your visit​​.
5: Marvel at the cathedral's Gothic architecture, featuring 215 vault keys dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, and the intricate details found throughout its structure​​.
For online ticket purchases, highly recommended to avoid queue, see [website.](https://tickets.catedralbcn.org) The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. 

Catedral de Barcelona

Vatican City

St. Peter's Basilica & Vatican Museums are true wonders, blending religious importance with artistic magnificence, and showcasing the best of historical, spiritual, and artistic traditions. The basilica, a gem of Renaissance architecture, boasts Michelangelo's incredible dome, his moving Pietà, and Bernini's majestic Baldachin. Don't miss the Vatican Necropolis beneath, a treasure trove of archaeology, and make sure to climb the dome for an unforgettable panoramic view of Rome. Let us share some must-see highlights with you:
 
1 - St. Peter's Basilica's Grandeur: This Renaissance masterpiece will leave you in awe with its vast dome by Michelangelo, a celebration of Christian art at its finest. Inside, you'll find stunning artworks, including Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's Baldachin.

2 - Vatican Necropolis and Dome Climb: Explore the hidden Vatican Necropolis under the basilica, an archaeological wonder with ancient tombs. And for a view that'll take your breath away, climb up to the dome. It's a bit of a workout, but the view of Rome and the Vatican gardens is totally worth it!

3 - Vatican Museums' Artistic Journey: Step into the Vatican Museums, where each gallery beautifully weaves together art and history. You'll be captivated by the Raphael Rooms and the Gallery of Maps, each telling their own unique story.

4 - Sistine Chapel's Celestial Beauty: The Sistine Chapel is the star of the Vatican Museums, where Michelangelo's frescoes, especially the famous ceiling and The Last Judgment, showcase artistic brilliance and deep religious meaning. It's a serene, almost magical experience.

To save time, grab your tickets for the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica online. And remember, there's a strict dress code at the basilica, so dress appropriately.  Find information on opening times and tickets here: museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html

Vatican Musuems

The Valencia Cathedral is very beautiful place to visit.
It was consecrated in 1238 by the first bishop of Valencia after the Reconquista, Pere d'Albalat.
The picture was taken by me on 🎞 film camera olimpus om 10, Kodak Ektachrome 100.

Valencia Cathedral

Georgia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo: Julia Lourido

Mount Vesuvius Crater Hike

Cambodia

How Not to be Templed Out.

Pick out the must-see’s in the mini-circuit (Bayon, Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm in that order), then pick two temples in the grand-circuit (Preah Khan and Pre-Rup are my favorites), and one that requires a car (Banteay Srei or Beng Melea). 

Add some climbing at dawn - at Phnom Krom and Phnom Bakheng - as the sunrises here will sustain you for a whole year of waking up late. 

Pace yourself over three to four days.

Temples and Temples

Cádiz, Spain, is home to the Cádiz Museum, a fascinating institution that chronicles the city’s 3,000-year history, making it one of the most important museums in Andalusia. Located in Plaza de Mina, this museum houses an impressive collection of Phoenician artifacts, Roman sculptures, Baroque paintings, and Andalusian folk art. Cádiz, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, has a rich and diverse past, and the museum brings it to life through archaeological discoveries and artistic masterpieces.

1. In the archaeological section, Phoenician sarcophagi from the 5th century BC stand as rare and remarkable relics, offering insight into the city’s ancient maritime connections.

2. The Roman sculptures and mosaics, excavated from Cádiz’s historic sites, showcase the artistic sophistication of the city under Roman rule.

3. The fine arts section features works by Spanish masters, including Zurbarán and Murillo, alongside a collection of Baroque religious paintings.

4. A 19th-century Tía Norica puppet theater exhibition highlights Cádiz’s unique cultural traditions, displaying handcrafted puppets that once entertained audiences across the region.

5. The museum’s peaceful courtyard, lined with orange trees and shaded benches, provides a relaxing spot to reflect on the history and art within.

Visitor Tip: Entry is free for EU citizens, and the museum is located near Cádiz’s main attractions, making it a great stop before exploring the city’s historic center and waterfront.

Photo: alina_danilova

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