Your Itinerary for this boutique small group travel tour to Puglia & Amalfi Coast

Days 1-3  Lecce

Accommodation:   3 nights in Lecce at Risorgimento Resort occupying a prestigious historic mansion dated back to 1880 in the heart of Lecce.  Enjoy the view over the old city from the roof top restaurant.  The hotel has an in-house spa if you’re looking for some pampering to help you relax after your journey.

Lecce is the baroque masterpiece of southern Italy often described as the “Florence of the South” with its wonderful confection of architecture sculpted from the soft local sandstone.  A graceful and relaxed city full of surprises.

Day 1:

Arrive at Bari or Brindisi for a private transfer to your hotel in Lecce.

In the early evening we’ll take a leisurely stroll with our local guide to a stunning neoclassical palace, originally built in the 1500’s.  With the help of the chef and a glass of wine or two we’ll create our own dinner featuring local delicacies.   A perfect way to break the ice with your fellow travellers. D

Day 2:

After a leisurely breakfast our guide will lead us on a walking tour of Lecce, once a Greek settlement and later an important centre of the Roman  Empire.   Your afternoon is free to continue exploring this fascinating city before we head to one of the famous wineries in Salice Salentino, arguably the most important wine district in all of Italy.  BD

Day 3:

This morning we’ll head into the countryside for a full day of exploration.  Our first stop will be the UNESCO site of Otranto, a lovely historic seaside town and port on the Adriatic coast.  After a seafood lunch we’ll continue our journey to the southern cape of Puglia, Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Ionian sea meets the Adriatic sea. This evening will be free to explore more of the wonderful restaurants on offer within walking distance of our hotel.  We’ll be happy to recommend those favoured by the locals.  BL

Days 4 – 8  Martina Franca

Accommodation:   5 nights in Villa San Martino Hotel Resort di Lusso in Puglia | Relais Villa San Martino a country house surrounded by a beautiful green park just outside the baroque city of Martina Franca.

Day 4:

Checking out of our hotel we’ll drive to the walled city of Ostuni.  With its incredible view overlooking the coast known as the “White town” it is one of the most beautiful towns in southern Italy. The rest of the day is at leisure to wander the park surrounding the villa or relax by the pool.  Why not join the locals for the obligatory passagiata and aperitifs in the historic centre of Martina Franca before finding the perfect spot for dinner. BL

Day 5:

Why not hop on one of the hotel’s bikes to explore the nearby coastal path.  Early afternoon we’ll head to the heart of the Murgia upland and one of the most beautiful landscapes of the region.   A splendidly cultivated valley bearing olives, fruit and vines.  Our final stop for the day will be at Alberobello.  A UNESCO Heritage site we’ll wander at our leisure  before dining in a fantastic 1 star Michelin restaurant.   BLD

Day 6:

In an area famous for its mozzarella cheese we can’t resist a visit to a local dairy to see how it’s made and of course to taste this marvel of a cheese.

Puglia is rich in UNESCO World Heritage sites and today we’ll be heading to Matera Matera, one of the ancient world’s city centres. Traces of human settlements go back to the pre-historic times.  It’s impossible not to marvel and wonder at what living was like in these cave dwellings known as “Sassi’’ in which frescoed churches and houses were established and where families were still living until 1952.   You might also recognize it as the location chosen for the Mel Gibson movie ‘’Passion’’.   BL

Day 7:

Join us on another bike tour this morning or just enjoy the facilities of the villa.  After lunch, we’re in for a treat as we visit the famous and mysterious Citadel and Castel del Monte.   A marvel of medieval military architecture and a successful blend of elements from classical antiquity, Islamic Orient and north European Cistercian Gothic.

Our restaurant for dinner tonight is in Noci, a quiet town rarely frequented by tourists.  It’s characterized by winding streets and small courtyards where we’ll no doubt see women busy peeling the beans for the family dinner or sharing the joys and sorrows of the day with their neighbours. BD

 Day 8             

A morning city tour of Bari by pedal cab.  Look out in the old part of the city for the women making the famous ‘’orecchiette’’ – the typical ear shaped pasta.  Time to explore on your own and for last minute shopping before we head back to the hotel to relax by the pool or enjoy a spa treatment for tonight is our farewell dinner.   We’ll be heading this evening for a feast at Ceglie Messapico, one of Puglia’s gourmet capitals and a 1 star Michelin restaurant.  BD

Days 9 -10  

The next stage of our boutique small group travel tour to Puglia & Amalfi Coast has us heading due west over the mountains.

Accommodation:   3 nights Hotel Aquapetra nestled among the olive groves this spa hotel is an oasis of calm.

 Day 9:

Checking out of our hotel we’ll drive across Mount Vulture where you can still feel the spirit of the Swabian Emperor, Frederick II. We’ll visit his favourite castle, Melfi, where in 1231 he issued the famous ‘Constitutions of Melfi’ a legal code that regulated feudal rights. An evening tour of Benevento, the city founded after the destruction of Troy and also knows as the “city of witches’.  BLD

Day 10:

Our tour this morning includes the Hortus Conclusus (walled garden) home to a complex of notable sculptural works by Domenico Paladino. BLD

Day 11:

Today’s delights include the extravagant Royal Palace built for King Charles III, with over 1,000 rooms and surrounded by splendid gardens and parks.  Following an afternoon at leisure we’ll be heading to Sant’Agata dei Gotto. This ancient and picturesque village is over 1,000 years old and a living open-air museum. BLD

Days 12 – 17 Sorrento 

Accommodation:  5 nights at Hotel Regina Sorrento an oasis in the heart of Sorrento just a stone throw away from the town centre. The panoramic view from the hotel stretches from the surrounding green hills to the bay of Naples and Vesuvius.

Day 12:

Checking out of our hotel we’ll head to the Amalfi Coast with our first stop in Naples where you’ll have time to enjoy some of it’s famous ‘street food‘ as part of our exploration of this fascinating city. BD

Day 13:

It’s hard to choose a favourite spot on this fabulous coastline but mine would have to be Ravello.  You’ll find out why when we visit its ravishing gardens and enjoy the stupendous views.  Wagner, while staying at the 11th century Moorish Villa of Rufolo, was inspired to write one of the most evocative scenes in his ‘Parsifal’.  BL

Day 14:

A short ferry ride and we’ll be in Capri which needs no introduction.  Our visit will include the blue grotto (weather permitting) and Alex Munthe’s villa with its own breathtaking views. BD  

Day 15:

We’re all familiar with the tragic story of the destruction of Pompeii and today you’ll experience the reality of what happened to this once vibrant city.  From there our focus will turn to the perennial joy of pasta.  The nearby delightful little town of Gragnano is known for the best pasta in Italy. BL

Day 16:

Day at leisure to relax, explore and last minute shopping before our farewell dinner tonight in Sorrento.

Day 17:

Group transfer to Naples airport

Your Itinerary for this boutique small group travel tour to Southern France & Northern Spain

Day 1:    Toulouse ‘The Pink City’

Accommodation:   Hotel Pere Leon This family run hotel is perfectly located in the centre of Toulouse.  Afternoon walking tour of Toulouse and group welcome dinner. D

Days 2 – 5 Albi

Accommodation:  4 nights at Hostellerie Saint Antoine.  Located in the heart of Albi in a peaceful little street, only 8 minutes on foot from the Saint Cecile Cathedral and Toulouse Lautrec museum.  Enjoy the private garden and spacious and individually decorated rooms of this family run hotel now in its fifth generation of ownership

Day 2:

Leisurely breakfast and check out of the hotel before heading to l’Ateliers of Chefs where we’ll learn some of the tricks of French cooking before enjoying the fruits of our labour.

This afternoon we’ll transfer to the magnificent town of Albi on the banks of the Tarn. Group casual dinner. BLD

Day 3:     

After breakfast, we’ll enjoy a walking tour of the city and its market to discover the local specialties.

A World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of the Southern Gothic style the historical centre, laid out around the Cathedral includes the largest medieval Judgement Day fresco and the most extensive collection of Early Renaissance paintings completed in France. The bishop’s city claims to be the largest surviving brick-built complex on earth. Also, located here is the famous Toulouse Lautrec museum.

Our walk will be followed by lunch with the rest of the day at free  to enjoy a wander along the banks of the Tarn and a leisurely dinner .BL

Day 4:

Today we’re heading out to Gaillac with its busy market and local vineyards well known for its red and rose wines. We’ll combine a buffet lunch with some wine tasting before heading to Cordes sur Ciel one of the most significant medieval towns in France.  We’ll watch the sun set with a cocktail or two before heading back to our hotel in Albi for dinner. BLD

Day 5:

This morning begins with a guided of the Viaduct of Millau, tallest in the world. This fabulous structure lies across one of the most beautiful areas of countryside in southern France.

We’ll follow this with a private visit to Hotel of Sambucy and its beautiful gardens.  After lunch it’s all about meeting the producers and tasting some of the famous local delicacies including home-made delights such as marmalade, cake and custard all made from ewe’s milk and the ‘king of cheeses’, Roquefort in the village of the same name.

On return to our hotel our guide will be very happy to point you in the direction of a great local bistro.BL

Days 6-7 Sete

Accommodation: 2 nights at Grand Hotel de Sete. Exceptionally located in the heart of Sete this boutique hotel has the look of Second Empire buildings with a beautiful glass-roofed patio that makes the most of the beautiful light of Sete.

Day 6:

After breakfast it’s time to check-out of our hotel and transfer to St- Guilhem-le-Desert, one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages and the UNESCO listed abbey which forms part of the Saint-James of Compostela route in France.  You’ll have ample time to explore the village and abbey before lunch.

This afternoon we’ll experience just a taste of the famous Camino with a 2 hour guided walk before heading to our next hotel on the coast in Sete.    Dinner tonight will be in a local restaurant just a short walk from our hotel. BLD

Day 7:

Sete with its extensive system of canals is known as the ‘Venice of France’.  Our day will start with a gourmet walking tour to meet merchants of pastry, cheese and wine and ‘les Halles’ the harbour’s colourful and authentic covered market, the finest in the region, with the best seafood and local produce.

From the market we’ll head to the quaint port of Marseillan where we’ll become experts at the art of cocktail making with the Cellar Master at Maison Noilly Prat and to complete our day of culinary adventures we’ll visit a shellfish farm to sample the oysters.

This evening is at leisure and as always, our local guide will be happy to direct you to the best of the local restaurants and cafes all within walking distance of our hotel.  BL

Days 8-13 Collioure

Accommodation: 5 nights at Hotel La Casa Pairal.  This magnificent town house was formerly the home of a 19^th century Catalan family.  It is a haven of peace and tranquility situated in the heart of Collioure, right on the Mediterranean coast.  With just 27 rooms the hotel’s typical Catalan architecture sits amid beautiful flowers and lush green vegetation.

Day 8:

After breakfast and check out of the hotel we’ll be heading to the Pyrenees.  En-route we’ll stop and visit the old medieval city of Pezenas, known as the Art and History city, one of the first town centres in France to be declared a protected historic monument

Lunch will be at the European Winery of the Year in the heart of the Massif de la Clape overlooking the Mediterranean. After lunch we’ll visit  the Abbey of Fontfroide in the foothills of the Corbieres, the most lavish and best preserved Cistercian Abbey in France.  The site includes a magnificent 3,000 foot Rose Garden and a succession of Italian style terraced gardens.

Late afternoon we’ll check into our hotel situated in the heart of Collioure.    This evening is at leisure. BL

Day 9:

After breakfast, our local guide will help us explore this charming town and the weekly market in the neighbouring small town of Elne, the ecclesiastical capital of the Roussillon from 568 to 1602.  There will be time to explore the market and lunch at leisure before we head to the beautiful old fishing village of Banyuls with its quaint narrow streets and excellent beaches.   Banyuls is also the home to a wine domain where we’ll taste some of the finest old vintages.

Our final visit of the day is to the Ceret Museum of modern art, it represents all of the 20^th century’s great artists in its collections including Picasso, Braques, Chagall, Matisse and Miro.

Dinner tonight is in a fine local restaurant a short walk from our hotel. BD

Day 10:

Today is a free day to enjoy the relaxing beauty of this charming coastal town. B

Day 11:

After breakfast, we’ll cross the border into Spain and take a walking tour in the Cap Creus nature reserve.

Salvador Dali, the great twentieth century painter, found inspiration here on the coast of Spain.

A well-earned lunch will have us discovering the culinary tapas specialties of Cadaques in a traditional Catalan restaurant.   We’ll walk off lunch as we explore Cadaques, a traditional Mediterranean fishing village with steep cobbled streets, white-washed houses all surrounded by olive groves.  The village owes its notoriety to the artists who passed through and especially Salvador Dali who made it ‘his village’. Before departing Cadaques we’ll visit the home of Salvador Dali.

Late afternoon transfer to our hotel and an evening at leisure to discover further delights of Collioure.  BL

Day 12:

If you are not familiar with the Cathars you’ll be amazed at their history, legends and extraordinary citadels they built. Our first stop is the Peyrepertuse Castle, a huge fortress on the top of a great promontory and one of the most outstanding examples of medieval architecture in Languedoc.

From here we’ll head to Queribus Castle, an ancient royal fortress standing on an impressive rock and host to many persecuted Cathars.  From its polygonal tower there are extensive views over the Pyrenees, the Mediterranean Sea, the plain of Roussillon and the Corbieres. BL

Days 13-14 Pyrenees

Accommodation:   2 nights at Auberge les Ecureuils  Set in the Cerdagne Valley of the Catalan Pyrenees this mountain hotel with just 15 rooms boasts a gourmet restaurant offering fine cuisine and regional specialties as well as a spa and heated covered swimming pool.

Day 13:

Checking out of our hotel we head for the most emblematic site of the Catalan region – the Abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou.  Since the 11^th century, this old Benedictine abbey has quietly watched over the valley and is one of the stages on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage.   At the foot of Mount Canigou is the ancient fortified town of Villefranche de Conflent, an ancient fortified market town.  A chance for a leisurely exploration and lunch.

This afternoon we’ll take the famous Little Yellow Train of the Pyrenees.  One of the great train journeys of the world. Passengers are treated to spectacular views of the rocky mountainous scenery, including villages, two historic fortresses, and a precariously perched old hermitage.

Dinner tonight will be in our hotel in the mountains at Valcebollere featuring fresh regional cuisine. BD

Day 14:

Today we’ll be exploring the Cerdagne region of the Eastern Pyrenees and starting on foot with a walking tour to the Lac des Bouillouses, a paradise for nature lovers with its lake and shores forming one of the most beautiful natural reserves in the Catalan Pyrenees.   Lunch will be at a local farm and include wine tasting and local specialties.   This afternoon is for relaxing in the hot sulphurous waters of the Bains de Llo before transferring back to our hotel for a gourmet dinner. BLD

Days 15-17 Barcelona

Accommodation: 2 nights at the 4 star Hotel Petit Palace Boqueria Garden.  With its hundred-year garden and outdoor terrace this is a very special find in the heart of Barcelona.

Day 15:

Following a leisurely breakfast we’ll drive to Barcelona to check into our hotel, enjoy a walking tour of this fascinating city including the largest art nouveau site in the world and of course, Gaudi’s masterpiece the Sagrada Familia. Group dinner.  BLD

Day 16:   

This morning we’ll take a food and tasting tour of the famous La Boqueria which equally attracts Michelin-starred chefs and grandmothers looking for the ingredients of the unique Catalan cuisine.  This afternoon is free to further explore the city or perhaps visit the Picasso Museum.  Tonight, we’ll dine in style for our farewell dinner. BD

Day 17:

Group transfer to Barcelona airport    

 

 

DAYS 1-6

Day 1:  Check-in at hour hotel (pictured) and meet the rest of the group for pre-dinner drinks and dinner. D

Day 2:  We’ll take a morning tour of the city to orient ourselves including Arbat, one of the most popular places in Moscow and Sparrow Hill, high above the city providing a perfect panoramic view. In addition, we’ll visit the fabulous halls of the Bolshoi and go backstage to see what audiences never see.  Originally opened in 1856 it has recently undergone six years of renovations.  Afternoon and evening at leisure.  BL

Day 3: After a leisurely breakfast our first destination today will be the Moscow Kremlin State Historical and Cultural Museum and Heritage Site incorporating the Armoury Chamber and the architectural ensemble of Cathedral Square, including cathedrals, churches, the Patriach’s Palace and the Ivan the Great Bell-Tower complex.  Red Square remains, as it has been for centuries, the heart and soul of Russia.  The 16th Century St Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most famous pieces of architecture in the world.  The square is also home to the constructionist pyramid of Lenin’s Mausoleum. Our day will conclude with a culinary master class and dinner.  BLD

Day 4: Travelling a short distance from the city this morning we’ll reach the small town of Sergieve Posad, famous worldwide for the beauty of its monastery.  A visit to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is not to be missed. With its churches and cathedrals it is considered the heart of the Russian Orthodox faith.  BL

Day 5: Today we explore a more recent history with a visit to Bunker 42, and its role in the Cold War. A nondescript neoclassical building on a quiet street in the centre of the city looks very ordinary.  However, the building was just a shell and served as an entry to a 7000 sq-metres space – one of the major secret objects of the USSR. An underground complex was built here in the 1950s as the threat of nuclear war became a reality. Up to 30000 people could live and work there for 90 days without assistance from the outside world.  After lunch we’ll take a ride on the Moscow Metro, generally acknowledged to be the most beautiful underground transport system in the world.  We’ll discover why.  BLD

Day 6: Our last full day in Moscow, we’ll visit a renowned bakery and learn some of the tricks of the trade.   You’ll have time at leisure to further explore the city there’s so much more to see and experience.  GUM is a not to be missed site. Directly opposite the Mausoleum, on the eastern side of the square, lies the building housing Russia’s most famous shopping mall – the State Department Store, GUM. Since the fall of communism, several other shopping centers and hypermarkets have sprung up to rival it in prestige, but GUM retains its status as a consumer Mecca for visitors to Moscow. In the Soviet Union, the top floor was home to Section 100, a secret clothing store only open to the highest echelons of the party. Nowadays the rows of exclusive boutiques are accessible to anyone with a platinum card. That said, the building itself is glorious, and there are still a few more interesting relics of a bygone era on the higher floors that make it well worth exploring.  BD

DAYS 7 – 12

Day 7:  Late morning we’ll check out of our home for the last 6 nights and be transferred to the pier to board our cruise ship.  We’ll join the Captain at a welcome dinner tonight.  BD

Day 8:  Stopping today at Uglich we’ll visit the renowned green-domed Cathedral of Transfiguration and the Church of St Dimitry on the Blood, built on the site where the son of Ivan the Terrible was murdered. Dating back to the 10th century, Uglich has been the scene of some of the most remarkable events in Medieval Russian history.  BLD

Day 9: Our next port of call is Yaroslavl, among the oldest of Russia’s provincial cities and  home to the 12th century Savior Transfiguration Monastery. BLD

Day 10: Arriving in Goritsy we’ll visit nearby Kirillov  to discover why for 6 centuries it was a centre of pilgrimage for people searching for peace and enlightenment.  The beautiful countryside alone provides the perfect spot for some quiet contemplation. BLD

Day 11:  At the northern end of Lake Onega is the tiny island of Kizhi home to the open-air Museum of Wooden Architecture.  Which, not only houses an interesting collection of restored 18th century wooden buildings but also, a 17th century 22-domed church which was built without the use of a single nail. BLD

Day 12:  On to Mandrogi, a picturesque village and romantic vision of the past located on the River Svir.  Here, we’ll find items of Russian handicrafts including matryoshkas (painted wooden dolls), remarkable pieces of embroidery and pottery utensils.  A wonderfully relaxing spot to enjoy a picnic on the riverbank.  Tonight the Captain will host our farewell dinner. BLD

DAYS 13 – 18

Day 13:   Disembarking in St Petersburg, our guide will meet us and escort us on an orientation tour of the city.  Following some time to relax and settle into our hotel we’ll head to the Stroganoff Steak House, located in what was the barracks and stables of the Horse Guards  before the Revolution.   BD

Day 14: What could be more exquisite than the stunning creations of Carl Faberge?  The Faberge Museum, a privately owned museum, is houses in one of the most beautiful palaces in St Petersburg.  Among other jeweled works here are nine of the famous Imperial Easter Eggs.  Later, a canal cruise through the city’s network of rivers and canals will provide access to parts of the city inaccessible by land.  It’s impossible not to marvel at the architecture and monuments of the imperial age. BL

Day 15:  A full day tour to Novgorod, one of the most important historic cities in Russia.  “It is the only place where you can touch the living history more ancient than Russia itself, and see for yourself from when the Russian land came to be: its Orthodox practices, literacy, democracy and statehood.”  (Source:  local official guide)  BL

Day 16:  Following a tram tour of the city we’ll head to the Russian Vodka Museum for lunch – vodka optional ! Later, we’ll enjoy a private visit to the State Hermitage Museum, the second largest museum of art and culture in the world.  BL

Day 17: Catherine’s Palace and Park, the summer residence of the Russian tsars, is our destination today.  This magnificent white and gold palace surrounded by parkland is also famous for its Amber Room.  Stolen by Nazi troops during WWII, it took 24 years for local Russian craftsmen to recreate it.  We’ll be privileged to enjoy a very special insight into  how this ‘proposed ninth wonder of the world’ was created.   Tonight, our farewell dinner will continue the theme of royalty with dinner at Tsar Restaurant.   Enjoying gastronomic traditions of the royal cuisine where each dish was a masterpiece will provide the perfect farewell to 17 days discovery of this fascinating country, its history, culture and traditions.  BLD

Day 18:  Group transfer to the international airport for onward or home-bound flights.

Day 1 – day 22

Day 1:   Arrive in Bangalore and check-in to the Taj Airport Hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2:  Join the group for our flight to Hampi, a mystical place with its boulder-strewn landscape and ancient village split into two by the Tungabhadra River.  Settle into our hotel with its intoxicating smells of custard apples, wide varieties of mangoes, bananas and fresh vegetables and herbs all grown in the resort’s in-house organic farm. A tranquil location not only for relaxing in the pool but also for indulging in a spa treatment.  BD

Day 3:  Prepare to be amazed during our full day tour today by the mesmeric boulders of Hampi.  We’ll navigate through giant rock formations to witness stellar examples of Dravidian architecture constructed by the last great Hindu dynasty.  From the stunning Queen’s bath to the colossal Elephant Stables there is much to discover. BLD

Day 4: This morning we’ll take a ‘coracle’ (small lightweight boat) across the River Tungabhadra to visit the Kishkinda Trust.  Established in 1997 and located in a village with a rich cultural heritage the Trust runs programs integrating heritage conservation with Crafts, Rural Tourism and Organic Farming.  BLD

Day 5:  Checking out of the hotel for our 6 hour drive to Chikmagalur we’ll stop en-route for lunch.  Chikmagalur is one of the largest coffee producers in India and  consequently offers a welcome respite from the Indian heat with its deliciously tropical climate.  BLD

Day 6:  Today we’re on foot as we explore verdant coffee plantations and rolling hills.  Guided by experts, our nature walk offers an  inspiring insight into local life because this sleepy town’s economy exists on its natural wealth.  Easy to spot will be the exotic birds and large butterflies.  BLD

Day 7: Continuing our journey  this morning we’ll be heading to Nagarhole National Park within the foothills of the Western Ghats.   Without doubt a spectacular park and furthermore rated by British Tatler’s Travel Guide as one of the top 5 wildlife resorts in the world.  It was the former exclusive hunting reserve of the Wodeyar dynasty, the regal rulers of Mysore. BLD

Day 8:  A morning and late afternoon safari to see how many of the almost 300 species of birds, gaur, Indian bison, spotted deer and a variety of big cats we can spot. BLD

Day 9: Leaving behind the National Park we head for Wayanad, a natural mountainous paradise.  Wayanad offers tropical fresh air, rolling hills of lush green, coffee and spice plantations and vibrant paddy fields.  In addition, a chance to experience a glorious tranquil retreat away from the crowds and within the heart of traditional tribal settlements. BLD

Day 10:  Enjoy an early morning walk through Lakkidi’s lush rainforests with a trained naturalist.  The profusion of flora and fauna is a welcome find for birding and photography lovers.  Later, we’ll gather for a cooking demonstration by the resort’s famed chefs.  BLD

Day 11: Our destination today is Calicut, also called Kozhikode, located on the Malabar Coast in Kerala.  Primarily a flourishing trade and marketing centre for pepper, coconut, coffee, rubber and lemon grass oil it’s also known for its  ‘Calico’ work, a fine variety of handwoven cotton believed to have originated here.  B

Day 12: Heading further along the coast to Fort Kochi Harbour with its huge Chinese fishing nets, ancient mosques, Portuguese architecture and the crumbling remains of the British Raj with time to explore before dinner.  BD

Day 13:  This morning we’ll indulge our senses as we browse the traditional spice and antique markets.  A visit to Hill Palace, the state’s largest archaeological museum will be followed by a chance to discover some of the intricacies of Kerala cuisine.  A cooking class accompanied by the chef of Brunton Boatyard and his team. BD

Day 14: Time to board our traditional Kettu Vallom, a boat made from coconut rope and wooden planks.  This unique and exotic barge provides all the creature comforts of a hotel resulting in a perfect spot for relaxing and enjoying uninterrupted views of rural Kerala. BLD

Day 15: After a restful night we’ll disembark and drive to Mumar.  At 5,200 feet above sea level the town first came to prominence as a favoured summer resort of the British colonialists.  Verdant tea plantations, rolling valleys and the veil of mist that hangs above the area  undoubtedly offers a mystical experience.  Enjoy trekking through the nature trails or maybe just relax at a picturesque spot under the wispy clouds. BL

Day 16:  Today we’ll explore this beautiful panoramic town with its sprawling tea plantations.  We’ll visit the Kennan Devan Hills Plantation Company with its 7 vast tea gardens and enjoy the many flavours and heady aromas of different locally produced teas.  B

Day 17:  Following our drive to Madurai there will be time to check- in and relax at the hotel before this evening’s activities.  An expert guide will help us delve into the legends and mythologies of Hinduism as we participate in the daily puja (rituals) performed by 50 saffron-clad priests. The ritual is held in the 2,500 year-old thousand pillared Meenakshi Amman Temple which has been nominated for one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.  BLD

Day 18:  A full day tour of this fascinating city from temples to royal residences and the busy flower and vegetable market will provide a rich insight into the everyday life of the Tamilians.   BL

Day 19: A short flight this morning will take us to Mamallapuram, once a bustling seaport.  Today, the city’s claim to fame lies in its ancient Pallava heritage, evident in its exquisite collection of temples, caves, rathas (chariots) and monuments.  The Shore Temples of Mamallapuram coupled with its unspoiled sunny beaches, casuarina trees and local handicrafts is a destination not to be missed. BD

Day 20:  A chance to visit several of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the mysteriously balancing rock of Krishna’s Butterball.  There will be time for a leisurely amble along the town’s sandy shore before we meet for dinner.  BD

Day 21:  The perfect way to wind up our tour of South India is with a visit to the living museum of Dakshinachitra.  Spread over several acres the museum provides an insight into the architecture, lifestyles, craft and performing arts of South India.   BD

Day 22:  Transfer to Chennai Airport for onward or return flights to Australia.

Itinerary:  Days 1 – 11

Day 1:  Arriving in San Jose, Costa Rica you will be met individually and escorted to the waiting driver for the transfer to your hotel.  Meet your fellow travellers over pre-dinner drinks. D

Day 2: This morning we’ll explore the city of San Jose, discovering its history, culture and markets. First we’ll visit the splendid and historic Teatro Nacional and the city’s gustatory crossroads, its Central Market.  Not only is the central market a fantastic food and craft market it’s also the place to discover local life.   After lunch there will be time to further explore the delights of the city. BL

Day 3:  We’ll commence our day with a visit to Cartago. When Spanish Governor, Juan Vasquez de Coronado founded the city of Cartago in 1563, he claimed that he’d never seen a more beautiful valley.  To say nothing of the most majestic colonial buildings the Spanish constructed to complement its location. Lush green fields encircle the city, coffee seems to grow everywhere on the steep mountain slopes and in addition it forms the gateway to Lankester Botanical Gardens with its 800 species of orchids.  B

Day 4: Checking out of our hotel  this morning we’ll head to the Northern Plains home to the impressive Arenal Volcano. Keep an eye out for toucans overhead and sloths in the trees. Enjoy seeing how some of your favourite tropical fruits and vegetables are grown as we pass pineapple and banana plantations, fields of papayas, and rows and rows of yucca.

With an early afternoon arrival at our hotel we’ll have ample time to settle in and enjoy the hotel facilities including the mineral hot springs. BL

Day 5: A cable car tour will take us through the rain forest providing endless views.  Uniquely, we can stop the cable car at any time to capture magnificent photographs and observe the bird species which abound in the tropical forest. We’ll take a walk on the wild side via the famous hanging bridges of Costa Rica. This 3km trail has 16 state-of-the-art hanging bridges accessing the forest’s rich biodiversity and looping through the mountainous area.  Here we’ll both hear and see the animals nestling in the tree tops.  BL

Day 6:  After a leisurely breakfast we’ll take a walk to La Fortuna Waterfall Reserve where we can cool off  before lunch in the freshwater of the Fortuna River.  This afternoon, we’ll hike to the Arenal Volcano across recent lava flows into the foothills of this colossus. BL

Day 7: It’s chocolate time with the best chocolate in Costa Rica!  In this 2-hour “hands-on” program, we’ll participate in all the production processes of the traditional drink of Central American ancestors, not to mention, enjoying a tasting of this high quality product.

After lunch we’ll continue our journey into the Monteverde Cloud Forest and our hotel where there will be time to relax before dinner.  BLD

Day 8:  Here in the Monteverde Biological Reserve we’ll discover the 4 distinct eco-systems home to hundreds of species of mammals, birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles as well as a variety of plants, vines and trees. Having worked up an appetite we’ll exercise our skills in a cooking class using open-air wood burning ovens to prepare a traditional Tico meal.

After dinner it will be time for a night walk in the Ecological Sanctuary to see fireflies shine and phosphorescent mushrooms. BLD

Day 9:  Travelling back down the mountains we’ll head for the warm Central Pacific Coast and Manual Antonio.  En-route we’ll stop at the famous Tarcola River Bridge to observe the giant crocodiles.  The afternoon is free to enjoy the facilities of the hotel and its surrounds. B

Day 10:   Beautiful beaches and the Manual Antonio National Park with its numerous species of monkeys, anteaters, iguanas resting in the rain forest guarantee a great combination and a relaxing way to enjoy the day. The park was listed by Forbes as one of the 12 most beautiful parks in the world and therefore one to be savoured.  B

Day 11:   Back on the beach we’ll take a catamaran tour not only to go snorkeling but also to head to one of the best locations to spot hunchback whales and many other marine species in this beautiful part of Costa Rica. Lunch is included and dinner tonight will provide a farewell to the first stage of our journey to the eco-paradises of Central America. As they say in Costa Rica, “Pura Vida”.  BLD

Itinerary:  Days 12 – 20

Day 12:  After check-out we’ll head to the airport in San Jose for our short flight to Panama City.  Our local Panamanian guide will meet us at the airport for the transfer to our hotel and the start of our adventures in Panama.  BD

Day 13:  A full day tour will take in the site where the city was built after the destruction of old Panama.  We’ll visit the San Jose church with its golden alter, the Bourdas (jail of the Spanish era) and the old Panama Ruins founded by the Spaniards in 1519 and destroyed in 1671 by English Pirate, Henry Morgan. After enjoying a typical local lunch we’ll head to the famous canal via the Miraflores Locks on the Pacific side of the canal. BL

Day 14: Today we’re heading into Chagres National Park.  It’s home to an abundance of tropical plants and animals with 114 mammal species including whitetail deer, Geoffroy’s spider monkeys and all five species of big cats. The Chagres River was dammed to form the Panama Canal and the water flowing from the Chagres park comprises nearly 40% of the water in the Canal.

At the mouth of the Chagres River we’ll be met and transported by dugout canoes to a traditional village of the indigenous Embera Indians.  A wonderful opportunity to learn more about their culture and share a traditional meal.  BL

Day 15: A drive of 120ks out of the city will have us arriving in El Valle, a beautiful mountain village located on the side of an extinct volcano. It’s the largest inhabited crater in the world. El Valle enjoys a cool climate year round and, as such, has become a weekend retreat for many wealthy Panamanians, who have built beautiful villas and country homes here. Equally, it’s also a land of history and legend. Inhabited for hundreds of years by several Native American tribes, the area is also famous for some rare petroglyphs which have not yet been deciphered.  B

Day 16: Today is a free day to further explore the city of Panama.  This evening we’ll come together to enjoy a folkloric dinner and dance show.  BD

Day 17:  A morning departure for our flight to San Blas Islands. The islands of the San Blas Archipelago are strung out along the Caribbean coast of Panama from the Golfo de San Blas nearly all the way to the Colombian border. San Blas is a series of 378 islands of which only 49 are inhabited by the fiercely independent Kuna Indians. Although only a 20-minute plane ride away from Panama City, a trip to the San Blas islands will transport us 20 centuries into the past.

The Kuna Indians run all the islands as an autonomous province with minimal interference from the national government. They have maintained their own economic system, language, customs and culture, similarly, a distinctive dress, legends, music and dance and thus have avoided traditional tourism development. The economy of the islands is based on coconut sales, fishing and tourism. Facilities are few and simple, as equally is the food.

Our accommodation will be in Yandup Lodge. The rooms are kuna style (wooden cabins over the water or ocean front) and have Orthopedic mattresses, ceiling fans, balcony, solar powered electricity, hammocks, private bathroom, mosquito nets and closets.  BLD

Day 18: San Blas is famous for one of its arts and crafts, the mola. Kuna women make rainbow colored fabrics, emblazoned with fish, birds, jungle animals and geometric designs that would impress Picasso himself. The men still fish from canoes as they did before Columbus came. They still run up to the corner coconut palm trees for something fresh and cool to drink each morning, just as they have for untold centuries.

Today we’ll have an opportunity to visit a neighbouring island and learn more about the Kuna and their traditions. BLD

Day 19:  Time to leave  island life to return to the city.  An early morning departure and the rest of the day free for any last minute shopping or sightseeing before our farewell dinner this evening at one of Panama City’s finest restaurants.  BD

Day 20:  Checking out of the hotel a group transfer will be provided to the international airport for your onward or homeward journey. B

Day 1: Arrive at Guadalajara international airport. Private transfer provided to your accommodation, La Nueva Posada, in Ajijic. Meet your fellow travellers for a welcome cocktail followed by a casual dinner at the hotel.  D Day 2: Guided walking tour of Ajijic. Wandering along the cobble-stoned village streets is the best way to experience Ajijic. In the most unexpected places you will discover things to surprise and delight you. You will find the houses are typical of old Mexico: simple village homes with colourful walls fronting the cobblestone streets as well as the elegant haciendas hidden behind the high walls. Dotted throughout the town are magnificent murals depicting social and historical scenes created by famous Mexican artists – many of whom are based in Ajijic. BL Day 3: Today we head into one of Guadalajara’s oldest village, Tlaquepaque.  It’s  filled with spectacular one-of-a-kind shopping experiences in every medium from Western and eclectic bronze sculptures, functional and traditional ceramics, breathtaking glass blown creations, fine contemporary jewellry and designer casual wear in silk and leather. Just walking around Tlaquepaque is an adventure in discovery. We return to Ajijic late afternoon. Free night – dine around options provided. B Day 4: Today is your special personal day where you have an opportunity to explore the local villages and surrounds, or join one of a selection of guided activities.We offer a specialized photography day trip to surrounding villages to meet local artists, guided by an internationally renowned photographer living in Ajijic. Or you may want to partake in a hands-on cooking class. Lunch is naturally included. Try your hand at a local art class, or go birding. Please inform us at the time of booking if you are interested in any of these personalized activities. Dinner tonight is in the neighbouring village of San Juan Cosala at Viva Mexico, owned and run by Agustin, one of the area’s local heroes due to his charitable work in the community and a master Mexican Chef.  BD Day 5: Today is market day in Ajijic. Located approximately 10 minutes’ walk from our hotel, an excellent place to interact with locals and discover the work of the local artisans. Following the market you will have a unique opportunity to discover what’s “Behind the Walls” with a visit to some of the privately owned magnificent colonial haciendas. This is a unique opportunity to meet local home-owners and gain insight into some of the town’s private art collections. BD Day 6: After breakfast we’ll depart for a full day tour to Tequila – home to a 300 year old distillery still producing the highest quality tequila.  After lunch there will be time to explore the village of Tequila before our return to Ajijic. Dinner at leisure in one of our recommended restaurants. BL Day 7: After breakfast we’ll head to the Maestros del Arte Fair in Chapala which is a unique event and the largest artisan fair in Mexico. Organized by an array of volunteers, artists pay no fees or percentage of sales to attend. They are hosted by local ex-pat families and their participation forms part of a unique community event. For many artists it is their first contact with the outside art world. The Maestros are hand-selected artists from all over Mexico. Many of them are featured in the acclaimed book “Great Masters of Mexican Folk Art” and have practiced their art for generations; others are inspired artists yet to be discovered. All are masters of their mediums; clay, paper, fabric, print, wood, stone, silver, alpaca wool and other traditional materials. Feria Maestros del Arte brings you an opportunity to meet the artists and witness demonstrations of these ancient crafts. Why not explore the lakeside town of Chapala and its Malecon (extensive boardwalk) before heading back to Ajijic. Dinner tonight is in one of Ajijic’s finest restaurants. (NB: The January tour will not include the Feria and will be replaced with another activity) BD Day 8: Your last full day to wander the village, sit in the plaza and watch the world go by or chat to some of the locals, take a walk beside the lake, do some last minute shopping or take a local bus to explore one of the other local towns or villages. Tonight we’ll dine together in one of Ajijic’s finest restaurants to celebrate the end of a memorable tour and our immersion into the life and spirit of this wonderful community.  BD

Days 9 – 12  San Miguel de Allende

Day 9: Checking out of our hotel this morning we’ll depart for our transfer to San Miguel de Allende.  A picnic lunch will be provided.After checking into our charming hotel we will meet for pre-dinner drinks and dine at one of San Miguel de Allende’s finest restaurants. BLD Day 10: Our day will start with an orientation walking tour of San Miguel de Allende, followed by lunch.  The afternoon and evening are at leisure to further explore this fascinating small, walkable city and discover more of its culinary delights.  We highly recommend a visit to the Toy Museum which showcases a wonderful range of antique and current artisan designed toys.  BL Day 11: Today we will drive to nearby Guanajuato, one of the most picturesque cities in Mexico.  With its unique tunnel system, labyrinth cobblestone alleyways, squares, colourful facades, its strange topography, stairways and its lively environment will take you back to a different world.  After an orientation walking tour and lunch you will be free to roam this remarkable city and discover its many treasures. Dinner at leisure. BL Day 12: A day at leisure to further explore this fascinating and stunning town.  BD

Days 13 – 16

Day 13: After an early breakfast we will set out for Mexico City with a stop en-route to explore one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Mexico – the Aztec pyramids of Teotihuacan.  Lunch will be provided and late afternoon we’ll settle into our boutique hotel on the main plaza of Zocalo before enjoying pre-dinner drinks and dinner overlooking this famous square.  BLD Day 14: This morning we’ll walk this historic square with our guide and discover its famous buildings and monuments.  After lunch we’ll visit the stunning Museum of Anthropology arguably one of the world’s finest museums and a fascinating introduction to the richness of Mexico’s history and culture.  BL Day 15: The day is free to further explore independently or join us for a visit to the ‘Blue House’ home to the Frida Kahlo museum or enjoy a culinary walking tour of the old city.  Farewell group dinner tonight.  BD Day 16: A group transfer will be provided to Mexico City International Airport.