Andante Travels - 2019 Brochure - 2nd Edition US

2 0 19 brochure 2 nd edition archa eo l o gy , cu lt u r e & hist ory

guaranteed departures

With our new guaranteed departures, your chosen tour is certain to go ahead as scheduled. View our website for the latest updates! www.andantetravels.com/guaranteed-departure

welcome travelers

Fresco in Pompeii

Guests exploring Petra, Jordan

Over the past few months, the team here at Andante Travels have been hard at work putting the finishing touches to some exciting new tours as well as making sure that our existing program is the very best it can be. So, with this in mind, we are delighted to present our 2019 brochure to you.

If, like us, you love to sit down and plan your next adventure, we are sure you’ll find a wealth of inspiration within its pages. But, before we go any further, we want to share what’s new...

Firstly, we are proud to announce that we have now introduced a range of tours with guaranteed departures. What does this mean for you as a traveler? Well, it means that if you select a tour that is listed as guaranteed, it will not be cancelled ahead of its departure. Most travel companies reserve the right to cancel tours if it doesn’t secure a minimum number of guests. However, we have now guaranteed over 80 departures, meaning that you can choose a holiday that will definitely go ahead – from Chile & Easter Island and Pompeii, to Uzbekistan and Japan. What’s more, we have also unveiled four tours for 2020 – Chine, North India, Georgia & Armenia and Native American Pueblos. It may seem like quite a while until these tours depart, but it’s never too early to book the trip of a lifetime.

Whether you want to embark upon a gastronomic tour of Provence complete with a tasting at a local lavender distillery or board a cruise ship for a Mediterranean adventure by both land and sea with special access at an array of sites visited along the way – we have an itinerary to suit you. So, make yourself a cup of tea, pour yourself a glass of wine and browse the following pages – your dream holiday is closer than you think!

Guests at Knossos Palace, Crete 2

Our guests at a workshop in Jordan

destinations

Machu Picchu, Peru

destinations

tour & travel information

traveling to europe See from page.......................................... 10

what is the andante experience?

See from page............................................ 4

traveling to asia/australia See from page.......................................... 88

what’s included?

See from page............................................ 5

traveling the americas See from page........................................ 120

cruise & stay See from page............................................ 6

traveling to africa See from page........................................ 136

meet our expert guide lecturers See from page............................................ 8

relaxed breaks See from page........................................ 152

joint tours & study days See from page........................................ 166

christmas & new year See from page........................................ 156

2019 tour calendar See from page........................................ 168

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what is the andante experience?

“It exceeded all my expectations. We saw more amazing places than I would’ve thought possible – some I never would have found on my own. The only thing that went wrong was that it ended.”

-Guest, 2018

Our expert guide, Lucia, lecturing in Egypt

why travel with andante?

• like-minded travelers Group travel ensures that you always feel included and this environment helps foster new friendships between guests on our tours • highlights We offer unique and exclusive experiences that other travelers might not get to enjoy, and all of our tours include various memorable highlights • expert guides Travel in the company of an expert, whose passion & knowledge will enhance your tour • hand-picked hotels We select accommodation with great care and only ever make last-minute changes if we can truly better your experience with us

frequently asked questions What do you need to know before treating yourself to the trip of a lifetime?

Q. Are your tours suitable for single travelers?

Q. Do I need to be physically fit?

A. Absolutely. The group nature of our tours naturally appeals to those who choose to travel by themselves and many lasting friendships have formed during our holidays... as well as the occasional romance!

A. We’ve created a handy scale that runs from 1-3 stars. 1* tours require light physical activity, for 2* tours you should be reasonably fit, and our 3* trips are more challenging.

Q. What about visas for countries?

Q. What are the between-site transfers like?

A. It’s your responsibility to ensure you have a valid visa. Many countries don’t require visas, but you must check as this can change. If visas are needed, we will inform you on the process once your tour is confirmed.

A. The coaches we provide show that your comfort is our priority. Anticipate comfortable air-conditioned vehicles and enjoy complimentary water on board. The time spent on coaches will vary depending on the tour you select.

Q. What are your group sizes like?

Q. Are the hotels likely to change before I travel?

A. If you choose a rock and cave art tour, there will be a maximum of 18-20 people on the trip. Other tour types operate at a maximum of 25. These numbers work best for the respective tours, although it may sometimes be lower.

A. We put a lot of care into selecting truly great local accommodation for each of our tours and we aim to provide the very best hotels in each location. We will only make the decision to change something if it benefits you.

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what’s included on a tour? expert guide lecturer

tour manager

local travel

meals

entries & tips

field notes

hotels

flights

Drawing on the ancient sites we visit, our expert Guide Lecturers are able to build up a vivid picture of life in the past.

Transport between destinations, sites and dining options are arranged in comfortable coaches or suitable alternatives.

No hidden costs. Our tour price includes all entrance fees to sites, as well as tips for our drivers, restaurants and local guides.

The majority of our hand-picked hotels are 4* with a few excellent 3* and great value 5*, all with location and comfort in mind.

Not only are our tour managers excellent company, efficient and charming – they also take care of your holiday’s practical details.

Unless otherwise mentioned, our tours are inclusive of breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as tea or coffee after dinner.

Enjoy a handy, pocket-sized (in-depth but accessible) guide to the sites you see on tour, written by your Guide Lecturer.

Internal flights are included, international flights are not. If you would like us to arrange these, please contact are sales team.

guaranteed departures & our 2019 PRICES

In response to your feedback, we have taken the step to guarantee a wide-range of departures across our tour programme in 2019, providing you with the confidence to book complimentary travel plans and secure the best prices. Within this brochure, you will find over 80 departures that are guaranteed and these are denoted by a ‘G’ on the tour pages. Check our website for the most up to date list, or call our dedicated sales team to find out more. We promise that when we launch our holidays the prices will be at their absolute lowest, offering the best value for money. We recommend booking early as the tour price can increase as the departure date approaches.

Dr. Paul Bahn with Andante guests in Abri Pataud, France

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cruise & stay

Exceptional small-ship cultural cruising combined with unforgettable city stays

Mediterranean adventures await aboard the fantastic Aegean Odyssey, a small ship with a capacity of just 350 passengers. Embark upon a journey to the past where lectures hosted by expert guides can be enjoyed at sea, the ship’s library is stocked with books that make up a reading list specially designed by Blackwell’s of Oxford, and where each stop along the way is brought back to life by the archaeologists and scholars who accompany you throughout the trip.

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The Aegean Odyssey ship

mediterranean odyssey

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highlights

Admire one of Rome’s lesser-known jewels, the Basilica of San Clemente Explore Nero’s Palace, known as the Domus Aurea, in Italy’s busy capital Climb to the top of the Colosseum and enjoy views from the Belvedere

ample delicious Spanish sherry in Jerez de la Frontera, wander the historic French fortified city of Carcassonne and cruise through Italy’s magnificent Cinque Terre on this 15-day tour. An array of experiences are on offer here and the sites visited range from those chosen for their cultural significance – such as Aix-enProvence, the birthplace of Paul Cezanne – to places (and palaces) of archaeological excellence.

Find out more on page 86

italian & adriatic highlights

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highlights

A private evening visit to St. Mark’s Basilica as well as the Doge’s Palace Enjoy a special tour of the Mithraeum beneath the Circus Maximus in Rome Walk in the footsteps of citizens who lived in Pompeii before the eruption

tarting in Rome and ending in beautiful Venice, this tour will take you from ancient ruin to fascinating archaeological site, and from walled city to historic palace.

There is also the chance to explore the UNESCO-listed site of Butrint on the Albanian coast, tour the elegant Achilleion Palace in Corfu and walk the charming streets of Dubrovnik. Special access awaits in cities on either side of the cruise.

Find out more on page 68

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meet our expert guides... from archaeologists and writers, to broadcasters and historians we have the most highly qualified archaeological team in britain today Dr. Agata Chranowska

Dr. Andy Souter

Aristotle Koskinas

has completed research at a number of sites in Portugal and currently works at Reading University.

studied Classical archaeology at the University of Ioannina in Greece.

Ben Kane

Prof. Bilinda Devage Nandadeva

Dr. Christina Hatzimichael Whitley

David Drew

Dr. David Rudling

Dr. Denise Allen

Diana Blumberg

is a specialist in Roman glass and has excavated all over the UK. Denise is one of our top-rated guides.

is an archaeological scientist specializing in the analysis of archaeological materials.

Doru Bogdan

Dr. Eireann Marshall

Dr. Elizabeth Baquedano

was raised in a 15th century villa in Vincenza, so was born to history! She lectures and researches in Italy.

is a specialist in the archaeology of Mesoamerica and gives regular talks at the British Museum.

Dr. Gillian Shepherd

Ilona Bausch

is an art historian who specializes in both Early Modern painting and in photography studies.

has a passion for history, which has seen him change career many times. He currently writes full time.

Craig Alexander studied at Cambridge following his passion for archaeology and built a 3D rock art scanner.

is Director of the Trendall Center for Ancient Mediterranean Studies, La Trobe, Australia.

Jeremy Bennett is a British archaeologist and is currently studying for his PhD, examining Maltese agricultural terraces.

Dr. Katya Melamed works at the Bulgarian National Institute of Archaeology and has directed many excavations.

Dr. Kim Hunter Gordon

has recently completed his PhD. He is also a journalist and historian of late imperial and modern China.

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is widely experienced in the field of Sri Lankan art and architecture.

is a writer, archaeologist and broadcaster specializing in ancient Latin America. He studied at Oxford & UCL.

is a lecturer in East Asian archaeology at Leiden University, the Netherlands.

Ilona speaks fluent Japanese.

John Shepherd

is an archaeologist who has excavated all over Europe and was the curator at the Museum of London.

Dr. Kelli Ann Malone

has a PhD in Anthropology and has been lecturing in archaeology and Irish history for over 25 years.

Lucia Gahlin

lectures in Egyptology for the University College of London, as well as for Bristol and Exeter.

specializes in the Minoan Crete era & is co-director of Praisos’ Excavation Project.

is the Academic Director of the Sussex School of Archaeology. His interests include medieval coins.

is a researcher and lecturer at Alba Iulia University, Romania. He specializes in Roman archaeology.

Dr. Ffiona Gilmore-Eaves read archaeology at Cambridge before undertaking her PhD at Nottingham University.

Dr. Jacke Philips is a specialist in the archaeology of Ethiopia, from prehistory to the medieval period.

John Shepherd in Pompeii

Dr. Luigi Prada

Mark Corney

Dr. Milena Melfi

Dr. Nicholas James

Nick Jackson

Dr. Nick Thorpe

Oliver Gilkes

Dr. Paul Bahn

Dr. Paul Croft

Dr. Paul Wordsworth

Dr. Peter Sharrock

Peter Yeoman

Dr. Rita Roussos

Rosetta Ferrari

Dr. Sandy MacGillivray

Dr. Simon Elliott

Dr. Sophy Downes

Terry Richardson

Dr. Tertia Bennett

Prof. Tony King

Tony O’Connor

has a PhD in Egyptology and Classics, and his research focuses on ancient Egyptian texts and language.

is the author of “Aztecs & Maya” and has worked on the archaeology of American Indians for over 35 years.

is a leading expert on Albanian archaeology and is the author of “Albania: an archaeological guide”.

is a Research Fellow at Oxford University, focussing on the archaeology of medieval Central Asia.

taught archaeology and Art History at the American University of Athens and is interested in ancient Greece.

is an award-winning historian, archaeologist, and Honorary Research Fellow at Kent University.

is an Honorary Fellow at Edinburgh University. She specializes in rock art & has an immense passion for it.

Tony Wilmott

is a Senior Archaeologist with Historic England. He specializes in Roman and medieval periods.

is an Honorary Research Fellow at Bristol University.

He was also a contributor to Channel 4’s “Time Team”.

has many strings to his bow; specializing in the history of Berlin and the archaeology of the Middle East.

is a global expert in prehistoric rock art and is one of Andante Travels’ best known archaeologists.

is a Senior Teaching Fellow at the School of Oriental and African Studies at London University.

lived in Italy for many years and speaks fluent Italian.

She has a great interest in food and culture.

is an archaeologist who has worked and published on Classical sites in Italy, and held fellowships in Athens.

is a lecturer in archaeology at the University of Winchester and specializes in Roman archaeology.

lectures in Classical Art and Archaeology at Oxford University and has worked on excavations in Europe.

is a Senior Lecturer at Winchester University and his current fieldwork projects are in Dorset.

lives in Cyprus and is an expert in Cypriot prehistory.

He works at the Lemba Archaeological Center.

was Head of Cultural Heritage at Historic Scotland and has traveled extensively in Italy.

is a specialist in Minoan Crete. He has worked at Knossos for over 20 years and lives in Greece.

has a background in Ancient History and Classical Civilization. Terry has both lived and worked in Turkey.

has excavated widely in Britain, Italy and Africa. He is deeply interested in the study of Roman coinage.

Merida Theatre, Spain

Dr. Val Turner

has been Sheltand’s Regional Archaeologist since the post was created in 1986.

Prof. Valerie Higgins

Teaching at the American University of Rome, she is a specialist in the archaeology of human remains.

For more information on any of our Expert Guide Lecturers, please visit our website at: www.andantetravels.com/tour_guides 9

our most popular tours... explore our core tours & the itineraries that make them so memorable for guests

pompeii,

Herculaneum & Classical Campania

There’s nothing that can truly prepare the modern visitor for the haunting experience of touring Pompeii and discovering its sobering stories. One of our flagship and most popular tours, we invite you to join us: • Private access to the cavernous Piscina Mirabilis, an incredible feat of ancient engineering and a giant cistern • Climb the crater of Vesuvius and experience its magnitude while looking out over the towns it ruined • Visit a selection of off-the-beaten-track ruins and villas that are only newly opened to members of the public • Discover the evocative neighboring town of Herculaneum and stand before the honey-colored temple in Paestum The best way to explore Pompeii is with an expert guide, who can bring the ancient streets back to life with their working knowledge of the site.

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guide lecturers The guides that accompany our departures to this inimitable Italian destination all have some connection to it. Whether they have excavated there over the years, have written books – from historical fiction to academic journals – on the site, or specialize in topics relating to Pompeii and what can be found there – the expertise and passion they show for this unique part of the country will enhance your experience of visiting it beyond belief.

classical sicily

A real immersion into the ancient world awaits on this 11-day adventure.

Beautiful bays and ruinous cities are home to incredible tales, buildings of religious significance showcase the most awe-inspiring mosaics, and we can find interesting archaeological sites all over the island.

• Pay a very special private visit to the Cappella Palatina, an extravagant Norman chapel replete with glittering mosaics • Stand before exceptional mosaics at Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina, one of the world’s largest collections • Pay visits to stunning temples in glorious, countryside locations and discover their rich histories • Pore over aftifacts at renowned archaeological museums Travel back through the ages on this captivating tour, and let the charms of this unforgettable destination enchant your mind and senses...

guide lecturers

We have some truly wonderful expert guides confirmed to lead our tours of Classical Sicily, each of whom has a unique angle to present each day’s visits to you from. An expert in Roman glass, a field and museum archaeologist, and a specialist in the Roman Empire are among those who will accompany our 2019 departures. Oliver Gilkes, Dr. Eireann Marshall, Doru Bogdan, Tony O’ Connor, Dr. Denise Allen and Dr. Gillian Shepherd are all set to bring tours to Sicily next year, so you’ll be in fine company.

crete & santorini Touch down on the beautiful white-washed island of Santorini and begin your discovery of its ancient history. Journey up winding roads to Thera, be dazzled by aftifacts on display at the Prehistoric Museum in Fira and lose yourself in the excavations at Akrotiri before moving on to Crete...

• Discover the bucket list site of Knossos Palace, the largest Bronze Age site in Greece and a world-renowned destination • Spend time at the amazing archaeological site of Akrotiri • Hop aboard a passenger ferry to the haunting island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony that is now deserted • Explore the impressive Minoan palace complex of Malia Across the water in Heraklion, wander the remains of the mighty Palace of Knossos, cast your eyes upon the stone-inscribed laws of Classical Greece at Gortyn and take a fishing boat to the excavations at Mochlos.

guide lecturers

Some of our most popular guide lecturers will lead this eight-day tour of Greece next year, each bringing their personal area of expertise to the overall experience. Dr. Christina Hatzimichael Whitley, co-director of the Praisos Survey and Excavation Project in Crete, will lead April and October departures. Dr. Rita Roussos, whose research interests include the place of women in ancient Greece, will head up May and October tours, and Dr. Sandy MacGillivray will lead trips in May, September and October.

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pompeii,

Herculaneum & Classical Campania

Full departure list in the dates section | 8 Days from $2,845 (single supplement $250) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

Ancient street of Pompeii

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owhere in the world gives a deeper insight into Roman life than the dramatic seaside towns of Pompeii & Herculaneum. The cataclysmic eruption of Vesuvius had a phenomenal impact and now, two thousand years later, the sites of the Bay of Naples confront the modern visitor with a haunting, vivid immediacy that is unrivalled.

Experience this region’s incredible past alongside a guide lecturer and lose yourself in the captivating stories that can be found here. Walk in the footsteps of gladiators, slaves, senators and citizens - even stand before the volcanic crater that changed Pompeii forever.

“Everything was superbly organized and both enjoyable, and educational.

The guests were a delightful mix of nationalities and backgrounds. The expert guide and tour manager were also both outstanding, as well as entertaining.”

highlights

-Guest, 2018

Private access to the Piscina Mirabilis, the largest cistern in Europe Visit off the beaten track villas at Stabiae Walk through the evocative Herculaneum Explore the unique National Museum of Naples Italy

Climb the crater of Vesuvius and experience its magnitude Naples

pompeii

The Great Pompeii Project has made this the most exciting time to visit this iconic city for generations. Recent excavations have revealed crucial new information about Pompeii and houses have been opened to the public for the first time in decades, including the House of Venus in a sea shell. What makes this an extraordinary site, is the sheer scale: nowhere in the world can you see ruined bars, brothels and fullers’ shops in such detail.

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Pozzuoli

Oplontis

Ercolano

Mount Vesuvius Pompeii Stabiae

Paestum

www.andantetravels.com/pom

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of excavations. More poignant, perhaps, are the glass beads, dice and other objects that reflect everyday life. After lunch, we move on to Pozzuoli to see one of the most impressive amphitheaters in the world. Later, we visit the Piscina Mirabilis, which is specially opened up for us. This cistern stored water for the Roman fleet and fed the towns in the area.

Hotel: Hotel Scapolatiello Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Naples

Go off the beaten track to the villas of Stabiae, an exclusive Roman resort for the very wealthy. The vast Villa San Marco is one of the most opulent along this coast and it remains very impressive in its scale. The Villa Arianna gives wonderful views over the Bay of Naples and is remarkably little-visited.

During our visit there, we will walk through the grand rooms, chambers and gardens, all in splendid isolation. Later, we have free time so you can choose to return to Pompeii, do more independent touring or just soak up the atmosphere and relax.

Hotel: Hotel Scapolatiello Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Herculaneum

Tony Wilmott with guests at Villa Arianna, Stabiae

itinerary Day One | Naples

Arrive in Naples and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Hotel Scapolatiello Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Paestum

Our day begins with a visit to the fascinating site at Paestum, ancient Poseidonia. During our visit, we will wander among three of the most intact Greek temples anywhere in the Greek world, as well as remains of the Hellenistic/Roman city. After a leisurely lunch, we will visit the Paestum Museum, which houses a series of important painted tombs, including the Tomb of the Diver, a unique Greek painted tomb dated to 480 BC. This museum also boasts and important series of metopes, as well as terracotta cult statues.

Hotel: Hotel Scapolatiello Meals: All meals included

The town of Herculaneum, which perfectly complements a visit to Pompeii, is our next port of call. This seaside city was buried to a significantly greater depth than Pompeii and here, we can wander streets with almost complete houses rising up on either side. Herculaneum is a much more compact site and has fewer visitors, but is certainly no less fascinating than Pompeii. We will stop to enjoy lunch and then afterwards, we explore a totally different part of the Bay of Naples, namely the remains of Boscoreale. Here a modest farm house, which is currently being restored, provides a rare glimpse into the lives of more ordinary ancient farmers. Adjacent to the farm house is a museum of everyday life which exhibits aftifacts from Boscoreale, as well as objects of everyday life, such as garum and a dormouse jar. The area that surrounds this villa would have been agricultural in Roman times, producing wine and olive oil.

Hotel: Hotel Scapolatiello Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Pompeii

We devote a whole day to Pompeii. We visit some of the most well-preserved buildings, including amphitheater, theater, forum, bath-houses, and bars, time permitting! The streets have stepping stones and are carved by cart ruts, and the walls are adorned with graffiti and paintings. Travelling by the best routes to avoid crowds, we visit several houses that have only recently re-opened to the public. Many of our guide lecturers have excavated at Pompeii, which will add to the experience.

Hotel: Hotel Scapolatiello Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Day Four | Naples

Today we marvel at the exceptional collections of aftifacts at the National Archaeological Museum in Naples. Many of the best wall-paintings and statues were brought here in the early years

Capturing the moment at Herculaneum

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Day Seven | Naples

On our final full day, we ascend to the great volcanic crater of Vesuvius. The majority of our journey will be by bus, but the final part requires a short walk which will be well worth the effort. Upon arrival, we will be rewarded with magnificent panoramic views both down into the crater itself and out across the Bay of Naples. Walking up to the crater is an experience as we will observe the evidence of the different eruptions which have occurred over the centuries. This time to reflect is sure to put everything we have seen and experienced during the week into perspective. After lunch, we will continue onto the impressive villa at Oplontis. This as a luxurious villa rustica perhaps owned by the Poppaeae, the family of Nero’s famous second wife. Excavations have taken place in more than 100 rooms and some of the spaces boast sumptuous frescoes and amazing decorative detail. This particular villa is even more grand than those found at Stabiae, and this stop makes a truly fitting end to our fantastic tour.

Hotel: Hotel Scapolatiello Meals: All meals included

guide lecturers Ben Kane

John Shepherd

Dr. Denise Allen

Mark Corney

Diana Blumberg

Dr. Simon Elliot

Dr. David Rudling

Tony O’Connor

Dr. Eireann Marshall

Tony Wilmott

Day Eight | Depart Naples

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Dr. Gillian Shepherd See more information from page 8

dates 19th - 26th Mar Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 1st - 8th Apr Guide Lecturer: Dr. David Rudling G: 8th - 15th Apr Guide Lecturer: Mark Corney G: 33rd - 30th Apr Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd G: 2nd - 9th May Guide Lecturer: Ben Kane G: 6th - 13th May Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 9th - 16th May Guide Lecturer: Dr. Simon Elliot 13th - 20th May Guide Lecturer: Dr. Eireann Marshall G: 20th - 27th May Guide Lecturer: Dr. Denise Allen 10th - 17th Sep Guide Lecturer: Tony O’Connor 16th - 23rd Sep Guide Lecturer: Diana Blumberg 23rd - 30th Sep Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd G: 30th Sep - 7th Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Gillian Shepherd 1st - 8th Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Eireann Marshall

1. Andante guests climbing Vesuvius 2. Guests walking towards Badia di Cava

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7th - 14th Oct Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 8th - 15th Oct Guide Lecturer: Tony Wilmott 14th - 21st Oct Guide Lecturer: Doru Bogdan 21st - 28th Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Eireann Marshall 28th Oct - 4th Nov Guide Lecturer: John Shepherd 12th - 19th Nov Guide Lecturer: Dr. Eireann Marshall www.andantetravels.com/pom

there’s a reason it’s our most popular After running tours to Pompeii for many years, we have cultivated unique relationships to allow us premium special access. Don’t just take our word for it, check out the reviews from our guests!

“The trip to Pompeii was on my bucket list and I was extremely pleased with the tour - I found it ticked all my boxes. The tour manager and expert guide lecturer were both brilliant!”

-Guest, 2018 Our guide John Shepherd, with guests at Pompeii “You did ‘what it said on the tin’ and more. Your guide lecturer and leadership is superior, and having a tour manager made it more relaxed and fun.”

-Guest, 2018

John Shepherd hosting a talk at Pompeii “I cannot fault this trip. It was as I had hoped it would be and everything ran very smoothly.”

-Guest, 2018 Paestum Ruins 15

classical sicily Full departure list in the dates section | 11 Days from $3,750 (single supplement $635) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

Temple of Segesta

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dates

highlights

G: 1st - 11th Apr Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes G: 2nd - 12th May Guide Lecturer: Dr. Eireann Marshall G: 16th-26th May Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes 5th - 15th Sep Guide Lecturer: Dr. Eireann Marshall 19th - 29th Sep Guide Lecturer: Doru Bogdan 26th Sep - 6th Oct Guide Lecturer: Tony O’Connor 3rd - 13th Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Denise Allen G: 10th - 20th Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Gillian Shepherd 17th - 27th Oct Guide Lecturer: Oliver Gilkes

t the meeting point of east and west, between Africa and Europe, Sicily has a richer history than any point in Italy. The classically beautiful heart of the Mediterranean has been praised by poets and became the prize of countless cultures - Phoenicians, Greeks & Romans. Sicily was also once the creative center of philosophy, art and learning. On this sun-soaked island, we find wonderfully preserved Greek temples, Roman villas and Norman cathedrals (some filled with stunning mosaics). This trip showcases stunning monuments and sites, set in beautiful landscapes shaped by fertile lands and seascapes ­— an experience that will leave you with glorious memories.

See truly exceptional mosaics at the Villa Romana, Piazza Armerina Visit Arab-Norman churches with their blend of Byzantine and Arabic art See the cathedral at Monreale which is covered in opulent mosaics Discover the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Take in the ancient charms of Ortigia

special access

Our tour of beautiful Sicily will be enhanced by a very exclusive encounter on the third day. We will pay a visit to the stunning Cappella Palatina, which is a chapel that was erected especially for Norman kings. Here, we can admire its beautiful mosaics and unique stalactite ceiling in splendid isolation, away from the crowds of tourists that often fill this magnificent space.

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Palermo Monreale Segesta Marsala

Selinunte Agrigento

Sicily Morgantina Catania

Piazza Armerina

Siracusa Noto

www.andantetravels.com/sic

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and ancient buildings, before ending our day at the fantastic acropolis.

Hotel: Overnight in Agrigento Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Agrigento

We start the day by exploring the wonderful Archaeological Museum of Agrigento, which houses the extraordinary remains of ancient Akragas. After lunch we take in the Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes the well-preserved so-called Temple of Concordia.

Hotel: Overnight in Agrigento Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Agrigento - Syracuse

Our journey takes us through central Sicily, stopping at Piazza Armerina to explore the unique late antique villa with its in situ mosaics. We proceed to Morgantina to explore this little visited Hellenistic site, which includes a macellum and theater.

Hotel: Overnight in Ortygia Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Syracuse

The Monreale Cathedral

itinerary Day One | Palermo

Arrive in Sicily and transfer to the hotel in Palermo.

Hotel: Overnight in Palermo Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Palermo

Our day begins at the ancient Greek city of Segesta, home to an elegant yet unfinished 5th century Doric temple. Later, we travel to Monreale to see the opulent Norman-Byzantine cathedral and abbey, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hotel: Overnight in Palermo Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Palermo

The many wonders of Palermo are ours to discover today.

We begin at the Archaeological Museum and then we visit the beautifully decorated church of La Martorana the more sombre San Cataldo, as well as the Palermo Cathedral. In the evening, we are treated to a special private visit to the mesmerising Cappella Palatina.

Hotel: Overnight in Palermo Meals: All meals included

Explore Syracuse, the wealthiest Greek city in the Classical period. We visit the fine Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum and then tour the Neapolis Archaeological Park, which houses one of the largest Classical Greek theaters as well as the famous quarry which Caravaggio dubbed the Ear of Dionysius.

Hotel: Overnight in Ortygia Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Syracuse

After some free time to discover Syracuse at our leisure, we drive to the town of Noto to see its many elaborate churches and palaces. Later, we visit the Roman villa at Tellaro.

Hotel: Overnight in Ortygia Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Syracuse

This morning, we visit Catania, to explore the ancient theater and odeon, as well as the Cathedral whose Norman history is evident in the transept. After lunch, we will visit the atmospheric catacombs of San Giovanni in Syracuse.

Hotel: Overnight in Ortygia Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Depart Syracuse

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Four | Palermo - Marsala

Today we drive to Marsala and visit the museum, which boasts excavated remains of a Carthaginian warship. After lunch, we take a boat to the island of Motya and tour its Archaeological Museum as well as its fortifications, sanctuaries and causeway.

Hotel: Overnight in Marsala Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Marsala - Agrigento

This morning we explore the fascinating quarries of Cave di Cusa, where the Greeks of Selinunte carved out stone for their titanic temples. Later, we spend time visiting temples

Cappella Palatina

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crete & santorini Full departure list in the dates section | 8 Days from $3,675 (single supplement $445) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Dr. Sandy MacGillivray giving a talk on ancient frescoes

T

he Minoans are best known for their labyrinthine palaces - the greatest of which, at Knossos, was supposedly where Theseus slew the Minotaur. Our journey across these two beautiful islands will demonstrate the impressive architectural and artistic skills of this Bronze Age civilization. We begin on the beautiful island of Santorini, buried suddenly during the cataclysmic eruption of Thera - which signalled the beginning of the end of Minoan civilization. In Crete we continue to trace the story of the Minoans, whose writing, organization and ambition had a profound influence on the development of ancient Greece, and thus the western world.

highlights Explore the impressive Minoan palace complex of Malia

dates 22nd - 30th Apr Guide Lecturer: Dr. Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley 7th - 14th May Guide Lecturer: Dr. Rita Roussos 14th - 21st May Guide Lecturer: Dr. Sandy MacGillivray 10th - 17th Sep Guide Lecturer: Dr. Sandy MacGillivray 24th Sep - 1st Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley 1st - 8th Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Rita Roussos 8th - 15th Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Rita Roussos 15th - 22nd Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Sandy MacGillivray

Take a boat trip to the island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony Experience rich history and archaeological sites alongside an expert Enjoy the Mediterranean climate, beautiful scenery and cuisine

Fira

Kalamata Pyrgos

Explore the city of Akrotiri, the “Pompeii of the Aegean”

Santorini Akrotiri

special access

In the morning of our final day, we will stop at the village of Sissi. Here, we will enjoy a private tour of the ongoing excavations on Kephali Hill, led by one of the project members, to learn about the new insights gained by the archaeologists. During our visit, we will be able to see an Early to Middle Minoan cemetery, complete with house tombs (circa 2200 to 1700BC), and the presence of a cemetery was first detected after weathered human bones were identified in this area.

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Heraklion Knossos Vathypetro Palace of Phaistos

Crete

Santorini

Malia Spinalonga Gournia

Mochlos

Gortyn

www.andantetravels.com/cre

* *

shrine as well as a wonderfully preserved wine press – one of the oldest in the world. Later, we spend time poring over Minoan aftifacts at the exceptional Heraklion Museum.

Hotel: Hotel Lato Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Heraklion

The Greco-Roman site of Gortyn is where our day begins a gem of the archaeological world since its discovery in 1884 and best known for its 5th century stone blocks inscribed with the laws of Classical Greece. We resume our adventures with the Minoans at the magnificent Palace of Phaistos. Our next stop is Ayia Triada. This grand yet ruinous Bronze Age villa has yielded many examples of Linear A tablets - more than any other site of its kind.

Hotel: Hotel Lato Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Malia - Gournia - Spinalonga

We begin our day at the Palace of Malia, significant not only for its size, but also its strategic port, and grand façades.

Later, we proceed to the well-preserved late Minoan town of Gournia, where traces of some 50 houses have been excavated, as well as a court and cemetery. In the afternoon, we have the opportunity to take a boat trip to the haunting island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony that was in use until 1962.

Hotel: Elounda Palm or similar Meals: All meals included The world-renowned palace of Knossos

itinerary Day One | Santorini

Arrive in Santorini and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy some free time to explore or relax before meeting the group tomorrow morning.

Hotel: Aqua Vatos or similar Meals: Snack in hotel room due to late arrival included

Day Two | Santorini

Our first full day begins at the Prehistoric Museum in Fira, home to dazzling wall paintings from the Minoan buildings at Akrotiri. Later, we tour Akrotiri itself. The city is reminiscent of Pompeii with some impressively well-preserved houses.

The drainage systems, complex buildings, and magnificent wall paintings indicate a once prosperous society, with wideranging foreign trade links.

Hotel: Aqua Vatos or similar Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Chamaizi

Our morning begins at the picturesque ruins of Chamaizi, best known for the unique oval-shaped Middle Minoan building located on the summit of the hill here – the only one of its type discovered to date. The afternoon is free for us to enjoy our surroundings - take a dip in the sea, doze in the sunshine or take a relaxing coastal walk.

Hotel: Elounda Palm or similar Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Heraklion

We drive to stunning Sissi so that we can see the excavations on Kephali Hill, where evidence for Early Minoan mortuary activity has been found near Crete’s latest Minoan palace to be discovered. After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Santorini - Heraklion

After breakfast, we journey up to the ancient city of Thera. Findings here have contributed immensely to our understanding of Minoan culture and history. In the afternoon, we visit Panagia Episkopi, a Byzantine cathedral containing beautiful frescoes, before a catamaran ride takes us to our next destination - historic Heraklion. We arrive just in time for dinner this evening.

Hotel: Hotel Lato Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Heraklion

Our fourth day begins at the world-renowned Palace of Knossos, a majestic complex erected in Greece’s Bronze Age. We take in the royal quarters and decorated Throne Room, on either side of the large Central Court. We continue on to the Minoan country house of Vathypetro and observe an elaborate

Guests walking to the Minoan manor house of Vathypetro

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prehistoric ireland Guaranteed: 23rd - 30th June 2019 | 21st - 28th July 2019 | 8 Days from $3,295 (single supplement $595) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Newgrange, UNESCO World Heritage Site

E

xperience the fascinating prehistory of Ireland. The monumental passage tomb of Newgrange – with its widely known stone carvings – is but one of the highlights on a tour that takes in Dublin, the Boyne Valley, Carrowmore, mystical Galway, and the island of Inis Mor. Particularly famous for its Celtic remains, Ireland has so much to offer archaeological enthusiasts. This is more than just a tour for the prehistoric purists. Join us to discover impressive burial monuments and captivating archaeological sites of earliest Ireland, scattered across this most verdant of isles.

highlights Admire aftifacts at the National Museum in Dublin

guide lecturers Dr. Kelli Ann Malone has been an active field archaeologist and lecturer since the 1900s. She received her PhD at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. Kelli has pursued interests in heritage interpretation, Bronze Age Ireland and landscape archaeology. A lecturer for more than 25 years in both the United States and Ireland, she continues to teach and write on the subject of archaeology, and archaeological heritage. Kelli makes her home in the Irish Midlands, but has also lived in New England and the Austrian Tirol.

Visit the Hill of Tara - legendary seat of power in Ireland Boat trip to Inis Mor Enjoy a scenic drive to the delightful city of Galway Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ireland

Creevykeel Carrowmore

Knowth Newgrange Fourknocks River Boyne

newgrange & knowth

Newgrange and Knowth are without a doubt the best known Irish megalithic sites. And the collection of aftifacts on display in the National Museum in Dublin underlines the significance of the island during prehistoric times. However, our tour offers more than that. We will not only see these major sites, on the bucket list of every visitor, but also get a comprehensive overview of Neolithic Ireland exploring monuments at Creevykeel and Loughcrew to name but a few.

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Sligo

Dublin

Galway Inis Mór

Ireland

www.andantetravels.com/pir

* *

Later, we head for Loughcrew - a rugged group of partially engraved Megalithic carvings - and then our journey moves onto the coastal town of Sligo. This area’s natural harbour once saw trade from Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans.

Hotel: Overnight in Sligo Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Sligo

Today’s highlight is our visit to Carrowmore, considered as the largest prehistoric cemetery of Ireland. Today, 30 monuments are still visible on site. Following lunch, we encounter one of the best and largest examples of an Irish Court Tomb at Creevykeel.

Hotel: Overnight in Sligo Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Sligo - Galway

We start our day with a scenic drive south to the delightful city of Galway, on the shores of the North Atlantic, a settlement originally established in the 12th century. En route, there will be some stops to view further prehistoric tombs. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a walk through the city, ending at the local museum. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore Galway at your own leisure.

Hotel: Overnight in Galway Meals: Breakfast & lunch

Day Seven | Galway Creevykeel Court Tomb

itinerary Day One | Dublin

Our tour starts with an afternoon visit to the capital’s exceptional National Museum, delving into its fine exhibition on prehistoric Ireland. The artefacts include a remarkable 4,500-year-old longboat and the reconstruction of a passage tomb.

Hotel: Overnight in Dublin Meals: Lunch & dinner included

On our last full day we catch a ferry across to Inis Mór, a magnificent island bearing a wealth of sites and monuments.

We visit Dun Aengus – the largest prehistoric hillfort on the Aran Islands. The impressive enclosure walls are dramatically situated on the edge of a steep cliff above the sea.

Hotel: Overnight in Galway Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Dublin

This morning we pay a visit to the Poulnabrone Dolmen in the Burren, one of the most iconic archaeological monuments of the island. After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Two | Dublin

The highlight of the day is a visit to the Hill of Tara, which was, according to legend, once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland. We will wander the Iron Age hilltop enclosure and view the so-called Stone of Destiny. Back in Dublin, the afternoon is free to either explore the city on our own, pay a visit to the Old Library of Trinity College, home to the magnificent Book of Kells, or to visit the elaborate 12th century structure of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Hotel: Overnight in Dublin Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Dublin

This morning we journey to Newgrange, a monumental burial mound from the Neolithic period, which pre-dates both Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza. From here, we enjoy a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Knowth, situated in the Boyne Valley. Knowth is home to over twothirds of all the known Megalithic art of Western Europe.

Hotel: Overnight in Dublin Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Dublin - Sligo

Our adventure today begins at Fourknocks, a burial chamber discovered in 1949. Here we have the chance to step inside the main tomb and marvel at a rare carving of a Neolithic face.

Aerial view of Dun Aengus

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orkney & shetland Guaranteed: 15th - 25th June 2019 | 25th June - 5th July 2019 | 11 Days from $4,195 (single supplement $715) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

View of Skara Brae

T

he islands beyond the northernmost tip of Scotland glory in some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes in the world. For more than five thousand years they have been home to farmers and fishermen, who left monuments so impressive that this has been called an archaeologists’ paradise. During the Neolithic and Early Bronze Age, the people of Orkney and Shetland were among the first in Britain to begin building Megalithic chamber tombs and later henge monuments.

The islands are also blessed with an extraordinary natural beauty.

Wildflowers bloom throughout the summer, covering the green cliffs with color and the exquisite scent of heather.

highlights Tour the UNESCO Sites of Skara Brae & Maes Howe Wander Orkney’s vibrant capital, Kirkwall

guide lecturers Dr. Val Turner has been Shetland’s Regional Archaeologist since the post was created in 1986. An expert in prehistoric and Viking Field Systems. Val has project-managed two major excavation projects: Old Scatness Broch and Iron Age Village and Viking Unst.

Peter Yeoman was Head of Cultural Heritage at Historic Scotland and has traveled extensively in Italy. He wrote the new guidebook for Iona Abbey, Stirling Castle and Edinburgh Castle, contributed to the Lonely Planet guide to Scotland and also teaches blue badge guides.

Admire the Stones of Stenness & the Ring of Brodgar Shetland

Visit the architecturally striking Italian Chapel

Lerwick

Lose yourself in the area’s rugged natural beauty

Clickhimin Broch Scatness

Mousa Jarlshof

maeshowe and skara brae

Discover the archaeology of Scotland in the company of our guide lecturers, long-standing experts in their field, bringing back to life the Scottish prehistory. We will explore one of Europe’s finest chamber tombs at Maeshowe, a masterpiece of Neolithic engineering accomplishments, with its large, corbelled chamber. Hidden under soil for millennia, and thereby preserving the site to an astonishing degree, the Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae is one of its kind.

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Orkney

Isle of Rousay

Skara Brae Maes Howe

Gurness Broch Kirkwall Italian Chapel Tomb of the Eagles

www.andantetravels.com/oas

* *

impressive mansion from the 17th century.

Hotel: Ayre Hotel or The Orkney Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Kirkwall - Lerwick

Today we visit the Tomb of the Eagles, the Burnt Mound at Liddle and the Italian Chapel, which was built by prisoners of war in the 1940s. We board our ferry to Shetland this evening.

Hotel: Overnight on the Northlink Ferry Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Lerwick

We arrive in Lerwick this morning and take a ferry to Mousa Broch. We continue to South Voe Croft Museum, and then explore St. Ninian’s Isle - excavations here revealed a fabulous hoard of Pictish Silver.

Hotel: The Shetland Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Lerwick

This morning, we drive out to visit “Stanydale Temple”, a Megalithic structure of uncertain purpose. Afterwards, we visit the Scord of Brouster. We head to Lerwick and visit the Shetland Museum before ending at the Broch of Clickhimin.

Hotel: The Shetland Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Lerwick

itinerary

On to Old Scatness, an Iron Age broch and the amazing site of Jarlshof. We view the oval Bronze Age houses and the remains of a Viking long house. Later we visit Scalloway Museum.

Hotel: The Shetland Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day One | Kirkwall

Day Ten | Lerwick

Guests at the Italian Chapel

We meet in Kirkwall, Orkney.

Hotel: Ayre Hotel or The Orkney Hotel Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Kirkwall

Today we explore Orkney’s capital, Kirkwall – the highlights include the Bishop’s Palace, St Magnus Cathedral and Earl’s Palace, which provide a sobering reminder of Orkney’s turbulent past. In the afternoon we visit Tankerness Museum.

Hotel: Ayre Hotel or The Orkney Hotel Meals: All meals included

Our final full day, exploring Unst. We view Viking houses at Underhoull, and the replica Viking house and ship at Brookpoint. We spend the afternoon at Skaw, to take in the amazing panorama, and then visit the Castle at Muness.

Hotel: The Shetland Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Depart Lerwick

The tour ends in Lerwick, from here we make our way home.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Kirkwall

We drive to Maeshowe, a zenith in European prehistoric architecture. This chambered tomb has been a distinctive presence in the landscape for millennia. We continue to the Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar.

Hotel: Ayre Hotel or The Orkney Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Kirkwall

We travel to the island of Rousay to explore Midhowe chambered tomb. Later, we visit the late Iron Age defensive structure of Midhowe Broch, which stands on a rocky foreshore between two inlets and consists of a circular tower with a thick exterior wall. Finally, we end our journey at the double chambered tomb of Taversoe Tuick.

Hotel: Ayre Hotel or The Orkney Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Kirkwall

Our day begins at the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, amazingly well-preserved beneath the sand, occupied for over 600 years. We will also pay a visit to Skaill House, an

UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ring of Brodgar

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scottish highlands & islands 7th - 15th August 2019 | 9 Days from $3,753 (single supplement $750) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Standing stones of Callanish

F

ollow Scotland’s story from the prehistoric era to the arrival of the Romans, and their early ambition to take all of Britain. This tour is an adventurous journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Highlands and Islands.

The challenging environment was the stimulus for all manner of ingenious responses by the early population: ‘crannogs’, dwellings built on small islands or on stilts in the lochs, ‘brochs’ and fortified towers with walls so thick that people could walk around inside them.

highlights A guided tour of the National Museum of Scotland Visit the extraordinary Callanish Standing Stones

guide lecturers Peter Yeoman has worked as an archaeologist throughout the UK for more than 40 years, directing and publishing major excavations, while also writing a number of books. He studied Archaeology and History of Art at the University of Leicester. Until recently Peter was Head of Cultural Heritage and then Principal Heritage Researcher at Historic Scotland, working across the 340 properties in its care, along with management of World Heritage Sites. Peter led research programs which underpinned major interpretation projects at James V’s Renaissance Palace within Stirling Castle, as well as at Edinburgh Castle, and Iona Abbey where he led the development of a new award-winning exhibition.

Exceptional prehistory awaits at Kilmartin Museum View one of the oldest religious centers, Iona Abbey Explore the well-preserved Carloway Broch

kilmartin

Travel from Edinburgh through the Scottish landscape with one of the leading archaeologists of the area. From the treasures exhibited in the National Museum, we will see the most important archaeological sites of the region. Spend a whole day at Kilmartin, one of the richest prehistoric landscapes with over 350 monuments including standing stones and rock carvings. The Glen is considered as one of the most significant clusters of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments of Scotland.

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Carloway Broch Standing Stones

Dun Beag

Skye Dun Telve

Iona Kilmartin Glen

Aberfeldy Crannog Centre

Loch Melfort

Edinburgh

Scotland

www.andantetravels.com/gbs

* *

Day Five| Iona

We journey out to Iona by ferry today. Here, we will visit Iona Abbey. The monastery was founded in 563 AD and was raided

by Vikings several times. From here, we will continue to our next hotel in Oban.

Hotel: Overnight in Oban Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch & dinner

Day Six | Oban - Skye

Today, we explore the Glenelg Brochs - Dun Telve and Dun Troddan. These two 2,000 year old fortified homesteads are located unusually close to each other. We continue to our next hotel on Skye.

Hotel: Overnight in Skye Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Skye - Lewis & Harris

This morning, we take a ferry to Tarbert and travel north into Lewis to visit the Callanish Standing Stones, a unique group of megaliths with a chambered tomb near its center. On to Dun Carloway Broch, a remarkably well preserved defensive structure of the Iron Age. Hotel: Overnight in Lewis & Harris Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Lewis & Harris - Skye - Loch Tay

Iona Abbey

itinerary Day One | Edinburgh

We meet in Edinburgh and transfer to our hotel. We enjoy an introductory lecture before dinner.

Hotel: Overnight in Edinburgh Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Edinburgh

We travel back to Skye by ferry this morning. Upon arrival, we will pay a visit to the Skye Museum of Island Life which provides a unique insight into the way of life on Skye a 100 years ago. Next we journey to Loch Tay, our next hotel location.

Hotel: Overnight in Loch Tay Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Depart Edinburgh

In the morning of our last day, we visit the Scottish Crannog Centre where we will see a unique reconstruction of an ancient loch dwelling. On our way to Edinburgh, we will stop at the Roman fortifications of Gask Ridge. We will arrive back in Edinburgh in the late afternoon, where our tour ends.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

We start our tour with a guided walk through the streets of Edinburgh. After lunch, we pay a visit to the National Museum of Scotland housing the most important archaeological finds of the country. We spend the afternoon exploring the many exhibitions and learn about how the early people of Scotland lived around 8,000 BC. Expect to see fascinating treasures including an Iron Age carnyx, The Hilton of Cadboll stone and even a Roman sculpture of a lioness.

Hotel: Overnight in Edinburgh Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Edinburgh - Loch Lomond

This morning we journey to Rough Castle to explore the second smallest, but best-preserved Roman fort on the Antonine Wall. We find defensive lilia pits, the tallest part of a surviving rampart and gateways. After lunch, we continue to Bearsden to view the ruins of the Roman baths.

Hotel: Overnight near Loch Lomond Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Loch Lomond - Oban

A whole day spent at the Kilmartin Glen. We set the archaeological background with a visit to the local museum and after lunch, we continue to the archaeological site where we will see standing stones, stone circles, chambered cairns and areas of rock carvings.

Hotel: Overnight in Oban Meals: All meals included

The Iron Age Carloway Broch

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walking hadrian’s wall Guaranteed: 17th - 25th June 2019 | 20th - 28th June 2019 | 9 Days from $2,995 (single supplement $495) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Hadrian’s wall, near Housesteads

T

he Hadrian’s Wall footpath crosses wild and beautiful terrain, its route covering the shortest distance coast to coast across the country, following Hadrian’s frontier. With walks ranging from three to seven miles per day, this is a wonderful way to chart the entire length of the frontier – as the Romans would have done. Pass forts, mile castles and some fine museums, as we walk west to east. We start along the shore of the Solway Firth and end at the excavated fort and reconstructed bath-house at Segedunum. Crossing the remote Northumbrian and Cumbrian fells, one can easily imagine the Roman soldiers, far from Syria or Spain, as they patrolled the farthest-flung corner of the Empire.

highlights See the largest unbroken section of Hadrian’s Wall Visit Carrawburgh Mithraeum

guide lecturers Mark Corney is a lecturer and broadcaster, and former Senior Landscape Investigator with the Royal Commission for Historic Monuments of England. He was a frequent contributor to ‘Time Team’ on Channel 4 and he specializes in later prehistoric and Roman archaeology.

Tony Wilmott is a Senior Archaeologist with Historic England. He has directed numerous excavations, including 23 seasons of work on the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site. Tony has traveled extensively throughout the Roman Empire

Delve deeper into the rich history of this area Explore Birdoswald and see both its fort and museum Walk this length of the frontier with our expert guide, with pub lunches and picnics along the route

vindolanda

The site of Vindolanda is remarkable in many ways. Wandering its manifold archaeological remains and exploring the aftifacts recovered here during field work is an experience alone, providing insights into the life of Roman soldiers far away from home. We will meet the site director for a guided tour of the ongoing excavations, during which we will gain a unique, in-depth account of the archaeological research conducted here.

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Scotland

Heddon-on-the-wall Wallsend Housesteads Chesters Birdoswald Hexham Newcastle upon Tyne Bowness-on-Solway Vindolanda Wetheral Carlisle

England

www.andantetravels.com/had

***

crag with views of the rugged countryside. We pick up our trail and make our way to Housesteads Roman Fort to finish the day, viewing the remains and the museum here. (c 3.5 miles) Hotel: Overnight in Hexham Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Hexham

With our boots laced, we head for the fort and mithraeum at Carrawburgh, built by Roman soldiers around 200 AD. We then stride out to Chesters – Roman Cilurnum – on the bank of the North Tyne River, to visit the most complete Roman cavalry fort and bath house in the country. (c. 3.5 miles) Hotel: Overnight in Hexham Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Hexham

This morning, we drive out to Heavenfield and trek to Port Gate, the site of a fortified gateway controlling traffic along Dere Street, the Roman road that ran north to the Firth of Forth. Following lunch, a drive to Corbridge takes us to a once vibrant Roman town and major military depot. We view aftifacts at the museum. We then walk along the River Tyne to Corbridge, to see the preserved Roman bridge abutment and reused Roman masonry in the Anglo-Saxon church. (c 5 miles) Hotel: Overnight in Hexham Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Hexham Line of Wall running across Knag Burn to Housesteads Fort

itinerary Day One | Wetheral

Our tour begins in the Cumbrian village of Wetheral. We check in to our hotel and meet our group and guide lecturer. This evening we enjoy a talk about the history of Hadrian’s Wall.

Hotel: Overnight in Wetheral Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Wetheral

Today we drive to Bowness-on-Solway where our walk begins.

We wander the shore of the Solway Firth toward Burgh-bySands and end at Tullie House Museum Carlisle. (c 7.2 miles) Hotel: Overnight in Wetheral Meals: All meals included

Today we visit Heddon-on-the-Wall, where we see the longest unbroken section of Hadrian’s Wall. We drive to Benwell to explore the remains of the Roman Temple as well as the Vallum Crossing.

Hotel: Overnight in Hexham Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Depart Wallsend

The day begins with a walk along the north bank of the River Tyne from Scotswood to Newcastle, and upon arrival we view the keep of the Norman fortress built over the Roman fort. A short ride on the metro brings us to the Great North Museum to browse the galleries including a collection of sculpture, inscriptions and other artefacts from across Hadrian’s Wall.

After lunch, we visit Segedunum Roman fort at Wallsend and see the museum and reconstructions of the baths and the Wall before heading home. (c 3 miles) Meals: Breakfast & a packed lunch included

Day Three | Wetheral

We start at Lanercost Priory, built from stone taken from Hadrian’s Wall, and then stroll via Haytongate, Hare Hill and the Banks Turret to Birdoswald. Later, we explore Roman remains at Birdoswald fort. An auxiliary unit of Dacians (from modern Romania) formed the garrison. (c 5 miles).

Hotel: Overnight in Wetheral Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Wetheral - Hexham

We return to Birdoswald and begin walking towards Thirlwell along the longest unbroken section of Hadrian’s Wall. We visit the Roman Army Museum and continue toward Burnhead to view the quarry, where our hike ends for the day. (c. 6 miles) Hotel: Overnight in Hexham Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Hexham

In the heart of the Northumberland National Park, we find Vindolanda. The earliest remains of the fort here pre-date Hadrian’s Wall. After lunch, we drive to Steel Rigg, a dramatic

Headquarters building from the Severan Fort

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roman germany 15th - 24th September 2019 | 10 Days from $4,013 (single supplement $595) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

View over Cologne

I

n 9 AD, the largest army of the Roman Empire amassed along the Rhine frontier, preparing to march into what the historian Tacitus described as ‘the bristling forests and foul swamps’ of Germany. They suffered a huge and unprecedented defeat. In response, the Limes was constructed - a defense system of bank, ditch, wall, towers and forts built along the Rhine and Danube.

Nestled safely behind this border, the Roman cities of the region prospered. Grand villas and exquisite mosaics were left behind, which can be seen today. This is a delightful tour in a beautiful and accessible part of Europe, often overlooked by tourists.

highlights Explore military history in beautiful countryside Follow the story of early Roman pioneers

guide lecturers Tony Wilmott is a Senior Archaeologist with Historic England. He has directed numerous excavations, including 23 seasons of work on the Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage site, and also at Whitby Abbey, Richborough Roman fort, and on the amphitheater at Chester. He has published several books, and many articles in archaeological journals and conference proceedings. He specializes in the Roman and Late Antique periods, with particular interests in the Roman military and frontiers.

Tony has traveled widely throughout the Roman Empire, including Syria and the Middle East, and also beyond the Imperial frontiers in China, South America and Antarctica.

Walk along the longest frontier Europe has ever seen Discover a collection of mosaics at Villa Nennig Xanten

Visit the reconstructed watchtower of Zugmantel

Cologne

museum für antike schiffahrt

Any visit to the Museum für Antike Schiffahrt in Mainz provides a comprehensive overview on ancient seafaring while viewing the exhibits, including impressive 1:1 replicas of the “Mainzer ships”, a variety of ship models and other related aftifacts.

We will, however, receive a specially-arranged guided tour to get a specialist’s insight into the excavations and conservation processes conducted behind the scenes.

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Aachen

Germany

Braubach Saalburg and Feldberg

Boppard

Mainz

Trier Villa Borg / Villa Nennig

www.andantetravels.com/ger

* *

patrolled from 60 forts. We visit the reconstructed watchtower at Zugmantel and then on to Saalburg, before Feldburg.

Hotel: Overnight in Braubach Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Braubach - Trier

A drive along the Rhine takes us to Mainz, the capital of Germania Superior. Here, we tour the Museum für Antike Schiffahrt and visit the Roman remains. We have some free time to visit the Gutenberg Museum before we head to Trier.

Hotel: Overnight in Trier Meals: All meals included

Day Seven - Trier

Today is our first day in Imperial Roman Trier, one of the Late Roman capital cities of the Western Empire which is now an iconic German Rhineland town. We begin with the Museum am Dom and then visit the galleries of the Rheinisches Landesmuseum. In the afternoon, we view Constantine’s Basilica, which contains the largest extant hall from antiquity.

Hotel: Overnight in Trier Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Trier

Trier, the Roman Porta Nigra

itinerary Day One | Cologne

This morning, we visit the famous Porta Nigra in Trier, followed by a visit to remains of Trier’s Amphitheater set into the hillside. On to the funerary monument of Igel, decorated with remarkable detail of wool merchants’ lives. We visit the Villa Nennig, with a collection of mosaics, followed by the enterprising reconstruction of the Villa Borg.

Hotel: Overnight in Trier Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Trier - Aachen

Upon arrival in Cologne, we check into our hotel. From the second we arrive, we’re greeted by stunning Gothic architecture in every direction. The skyline is dominated by the twin spires of its magnificent cathedral, and ancient Roman walls to avantgarde structures decorate the banks of the Rhine.

Hotel: Overnight in Cologne Meals: Snack in hotel room due to late arrival included

We drive to Aachen, the capital of Charlemagne’s renewed Roman Empire of the 8th century. We will enjoy a walking tour through the city and then visit the Treasury, the richest in Western Europe with gifts and acquisitions made by Holy Roman Emperors throughout the Middle Ages. Afterwards, we will spend time in the Dom. Hotel: Overnight in Aachen Meals: All meals included

Day Two | Cologne

Day Ten | Depart Aachen

We drive north to Xanten where the Roman town of Colonia Ulpia Traiana has been reconstructed, controversially overlying the archaeological remains.

Hotel: Overnight in Cologne Meals: All meals included

Our final visit is to the Gothic Rathaus. After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

Day Three | Cologne

We explore the remarkable and prolific remains of Roman Cologne and the excellent collections of the RömischGermanisches Museum. After lunch, we visit the governor’s residence (the Praetorium) and walk along the Roman sewers.

Hotel: Overnight in Cologne Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Cologne - Braubach

Today we pay a visit to the opulent Ahrweiler villa which has been transformed into an excellent museum. On to Boppard, a charming, mostly medieval village. We travel by boat on the Rhine to our next hotel in Braubach.

Hotel: Overnight in Braubach Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Braubach

We reach the Limes – a 500km boundary fortified with great banks and ditches overlooked by 900 watchtowers and

Statue of Antoninus Pius outside Roman fort - Saalburg

29

romania 4th - 13th May 2019 | 10 Days from $4,215 (single supplement $485) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Sarmizegetusa Regia, capital of the Dacian Kingdom

A

t the eastern edge of Europe lies the ring of the Carpathian Mountains. The plains within these mountains were once the homeland of the Dacians, once one of Rome’s great enemies, and conquered in AD106.

Here the Romans stretched their defensive frontier from the Danube across the Carpathians to the Black Sea, in a complex system combining the naturally defensive geography with forts, walls and ditches. Much later, at the frontier of empires in the medieval period, nobles and princes fortified themselves behind Gothic castle walls, inspiring all sorts of Transylvanian legends....

guide lecturers Doru Bogdan is a researcher and lecturer at Alba Iulia University, Romania.

He specializes in Roman archaeology and has supervised excavations in Carnuntum (Austria), Pompeii (Italy), Catalhöyük (Turkey) and Birdoswald (UK). Doru has also directed numerous archaeological excavations and research projects in Transylvania and the Lower Danube/Black Sea area of Dobrudja.

highlights Visit Histria, the largest archaeological site in Romania Explore the iconic Bran Castle Travel in 4x4s to Sarmizegetusa Regia See the triumphal victory monument at Adamclisi Learn about Greek, Roman, Saxon and Gothic archaeology

Romania

sarmizegetusa regia

Be led through the delights of Romania by Doru Bodgan, a researcher and lecturer at the University of Alba Iulia, Romania. We have the chance to visit Sarmizegetusa Regia, which was the capital and the most important military and political center of the Dacians. Erected on the top of a high mountain, it was core to the strategic defense system in the OrӑŞtie Mountains.

30

Hunedoara Sibiu Brasov Ulpia Traiana Bran Castle Sarmizegetusa Sarmizegetusa Regia Bucharest

Histria Constanta Adamclisi

www.andantetravels.com/rmn

* *

Day Five | Bucharest

Our first visit is to the National Museum in Bucharest, which holds treasures from all over Romania. Before lunch, we tour the old town, then continue to the Philharmonia Academy followed by a look at the ‘Pharaonic House of the People’ Romania’s Parliament. We end the day at the Village Museum.

Hotel: Hotel Capitol Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Bucharest - Brasov

We drive this morning along the Prahova Valley to Bran Castle, popularly linked with Dracula. We then continue to Brasov, a once Saxon Kronstadt, with many characteristic buildings, such as the ‘Black Church’.

Hotel: Hotel Ana Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Brasov - Sibiu

In the morning we see the History Museum in Brasov, before continuing to Sibiu. After lunch, we explore the old town of Sibiu and visit the Brukenthal Palace, home to one of Romania’s largest and oldest museums.

Hotel: Golden Tulip Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Sibiu - Hunedoara The iconic Bran Castle

itinerary Day One | Bucharest

Upon arrival in Bucharest, we transfer to our hotel. Take the time to unwind before dinner this evening.

Hotel: Hotel Carol Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Constanța

We explore Constanța, the ancient city of Tomis, including some current excavations and the ‘mosaic building’. In the Museum of National History and Archaeology we marvel at the famous “Sculpture Treasury” assumed to represent the cult inventory of a temple. Later, we drive to Mangalia, originally a Greek colony, to visit some of the preserved archaeological remains and the finds from the area in the Callatis Museum.

Hotel: Hotel Carol Meals: All meals included

This morning we take a mountain trip in 4x4s to Sarmizegetusa Regia, capital of the Dacian kingdom. Its appearance is unique, including defensive walls, artificial terraces, temples and sanctuaries. End the day at the nearby 1st century Dacian fort of Costeşti, one of the oldest forts in the Orăştie Mountains.

Hotel: Hotel Krystal Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Hunedoara - Sibiu

We spend the morning at Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa, colonial capital of the Roman province of Dacia, with amphitheater, temples, forum and the residence of the province’s financial procurator. This afternoon we visit the 15th century Gothic Hunyad Castle and the church at Desus.

Hotel: Golden Tulip Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Depart Bucharest

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

Day Three | Constanța

Today we visit Histria, another ancient Greek colony and the oldest city in the country. We explore the archaeological site, the largest in Romania, including the public buildings, thermal baths, civil basilica, and the remains of a temple. We also visit the Archaeological Museum where the most important aftifacts from the area are displayed.

Hotel: Hotel Carol Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Constanța - Bucharest

This morning a drive to Adamclisi takes us to the Tropaeum Traiani, the triumphal monument erected in celebration of Trajan’s victory over the Dacians. We then explore the ancient city. In the afternoon we drive to Bucharest.

Hotel: Hotel Capitol Meals: All meals included Hunedoara Castle, Transylvania

31

serbia

Land of the Iron Emperors

2nd - 9th May 2019 | 8 Days from $3,545 (single supplement $375) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Felix Romuliana, Gamzigrad

T

he wide lands of Moesia and Pannonia were the homelands of the medieval Illyrian Emperors, and the mighty kings of medieval Serbia. The ruins of imperial retirement palace Gamzigrad and iron fortresses like in KruŠevac, punctuate the countryside. Not only this, Serbia hosts the remains of perhaps the earliest settled agricultural communities in Europe.

This tour is a little off the beaten track, but the country’s wealth of iconic archaeological sites - from remote prehistory until the birth of modern Europe - are not to be missed! Join us as we uncover the story of Serbia & the Balkans, alongside our expert guide, Oliver Gilkes.

highlights

guide lecturers Oliver Gilkes specializes in Balkan archaeology.

He has worked for over 10 years as a field archaeologist in Italy at both Classical and medieval sites, before moving across the Adriatic, where he worked at the World Heritage Site of Butrint and evocative medieval city of Gjirokastra.

Oliver is still involved in a number of projects in Albania and is one of a handful of experts on the archaeology of Albania in the United Kingdom. He currently works for Andante Travels, designing new tours worldwide.

Explore Vinča, the Danube-side cradle of European civilization The late retirement palace of Emperor Galerius at Gamzigrad Visit castles on the banks of the mighty Danube KruŠevac Lazarica monastery, set among forested hills in the south The old town at Nis, a typical medieval trading city of the Balkans

Novi Sad

Vinča

Sirmium

Belgrade

gamzigrad

Even Emperors have to rest. The long list of the ‘Illyrian Emperors’ from this region invested in grand villas to featherbed their declining years and (hopefully) peaceful retirements. Diocletian famously went to the seaside, but his successor, Galerius, constructed a walled fortress villa. A luxurious imperial palace was accompanied by temples and public spaces. Not to be outdone, Galerius’ nephew and successor, Maximum Daia, built his own version a few miles away.

32

Golubae

Serbia

Gamzigrad

Krusevac

Caricin Grad

Nis

www.andantetravels.com/ser

* *

Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Belgrade - Nis

This morning, we set out for the south and head to Gamzigrad.

Here, at a place named Felix Romuliana, Emperor Galerius built himself a retirement villa, much like that of his mentor Diocletian at Split. Set in rolling countryside, a huge walled enclosure once contained this majestic country villa, but its ruins now are just as impressive. Nearby is the specially built funeral pyre where Galerius was cremated. We drive to the town of Nis, claimed to be one of the oldest cities in the Balkans and the gateway between the East and West.

Hotel: New City Hotel, Nis Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Nis

We drive to KruŠevac. Here, the hero prince Lazar, last of the medieval monarchs, had his capital and commissioned a Byzantine style church. In the afternoon we visit the ruins and archaeological site of Justiniana Prima. The 6th century Emperor Justinian the Great ordered the reconstruction of his home village into a model ‘city’ of his era.

Hotel: New City Hotel, Nis Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Nis - Belgrade

Medieval fortress in Golubac, Serbia

itinerary Day One | Belgrade

Arrive in Belgrade and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Royal Inn Meals: Dinner included

Constantine the Great was born at Nis and elements of the city of his time remain. This city also boasts a great Archaeological Museum, which we will explore before departing. Later, we return to Belgrade.

Hotel: Royal Inn Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Belgrade

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Two | Belgrade

A day of imperial connections. We drive to Sirmium, one of the capitals of the Late Roman world. Three emperors, namely Galerius, Severus II and Licinius, used it as their convenient base on the Danube to intercept barbarian raids and to dominate the road network. In the afternoon, we cross the river to Novi Sad and visit the Serbian Petrovaredin Fortress.

Hotel: Royal Inn Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Belgrade

A morning exploration of Belgrade awaits, including a visit to the impressive collections of the Serbian National and Historical Museum. We look into the past of this Danubian citadel with a visit to the Belgrade fortress, where the remains of Roman Singidunum have been excavated.

Hotel: Royal Inn Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Belgrade

We make our way out of the city this morning, to Vinča. One of the most important sites of European prehistory, inhabited from c. 5700 BC, produced one of the first great settled farming communities, which subsequently saw an explosion in both human population and in settlement. We visit the famous river bank site and then move on to Golubac, to tour a striking medieval, Turkish and Serbian fortress whose iconic curtain walls cascade dramatically down the side of the river.

Hotel: Royal Inn

Vinča clay figure

33

bulgaria

Thracians & Churches

5th -16th October 2019 | 12 Days from $3,895 (single supplement $385) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

The Rila Monastery

B

ulgaria’s culture is one of the richest in eastern Europe. Hidden in the hills, forests and plains are some of the oldest Neolithic settlements, Thracian tombs, Roman cities and exuberantly painted medieval churches.

This sought-after land was colonized from all sides in antiquity. The great dynasties of Thracian kings went to war with Philip of Macedon, before being conquered by the Romans and transformed into rich imperial provinces. The struggle between Byzantines and Bulgars for the region resulted in the foundation of a powerful Bulgarian empire and the two states clashed prior to the arrival of the Ottoman Turks.

highlights

guide lecturers Dr. Katya Melamed is an archaeologist who recently retired from the Bulgarian Institute of Archaeology. She continues to direct a number of excavations and specializes in the medieval period, with a particular interest in the continuation of burial practices from the Thracians to the Christian era. She has published widely in both Bulgarian and English, and has previously led tours many times for Andante Travels.

Visit no fewer than six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Rila Monastery, Kazanlak, the Thracian Tomb at Sveshtari, Boyana Church and Nessebar Marvel at the iconic Rila Monastery Explore the Tsarevets Fortress Tour the village of Hisarya, famed for its hot spring

Nicopolis ad Istrum Veliko Tarnovo

tomb of kazanlak

We visit the Valley of the Thracian Kings at Kazanlak. Part of a large Thracian necropolis and dating back to the 4th century BC, this site has one of the best preserved artistic masterpieces of the Hellenistic period. The so-called tomb is decorated with beautiful frescoes, and murals which document Thracian burial rituals and give rare insights into the this culture. It has been on the World Heritage list since 1979 and a full-size replica has since been created.

34

Sofia Hisarya Plovdiv

Madara

Arbanassi

Kazanlak

Karanovo Stara Zagora

Varna Nessebar

Bulgaria

www.andantetravels.com/bul

* *

Day Five | Stara Zagora - Varna

We start at the huge settlement mound of Karanovo. Later, we drive to Nessebar on the Black Sea coast. Founded by the Thracians, the town became a thriving Greek trading colony and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its three millennia of history.

Hotel: Hotel Modus Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Varna

We spend the morning at the superb Archaeological Museum in Varna, housing intricately worked gold found at nearby burial sites. After lunch we have time to explore this coastal city including its Roman bath complex.

Hotel: Hotel Modus Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Varna - Arbanassi

Today we visit the majestic Madara Horseman rock relief and the multi-colored Sveshtari Thracian Tomb, with its unique Thracian architecture and decor.

Hotel: Park Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Arbanassi - Veliko Tarnovo

Frescoed ceiling in the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

itinerary Day One | London - Sofia

Upon arrival in Sofia, we transfer to Plovdiv. We begin our tour with a visit to Tell Yunatsite, also known as ‘The Flat Mound’, an important site of the 5th millennium BC. Set against the mountains, the site bears evidence to more than 6,000 years of existence.

Hotel: Ramada Trimonzium Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Plovdiv

We start our day in Veliko Tarnovo, capital of the medieval Bulgarian tsars. Here we explore the Bulgarian Orthodox Church of Saints Peter and Paul as well as the Tsarevets Hill Fortress. Later, we travel to the ancient site of Nicopolis ad Istrum, once a thriving Roman colony.

Hotel: Park Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Veliko Tarnovo - Arbanassi - Sofia This morning we head to Arbanassi. Here we visit the Folk House and the Nativity Church, which is covered in stunning frescoes and features a panoply of saints. Next we journey to Etar and explore the Open Air Ethnographic Museum. It has been open since 1964 and features Bulgarian revival houses.

Hotel: Hotel Central Park Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Sofia

Today we explore the sites of Plovdiv with its famous Roman theater and forum. We then visit the Trakart Cultural Center which boasts 150 sq.m of in situ Roman mosaics as well as an interesting exhibit on Roman glass.

Hotel: Ramada Trimonzium Meals: All meals included

Today we spend a full day in Sofia where we will visit the National Museum of History and the UNESCO listed Boyana Church. After lunch, we head out on a walking tour of the city where we take in the key sites before dinner including St George’s Basilica and the Church of Santa Sofia.

Hotel: Hotel Central Park Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Plovdiv

Day Eleven | Sofia

We drive north to the village of Hisarya, where we will explore the Roman remains. We then have a picnic lunch on the site of the Kazanlak Mound before travelling to the ‘Valley of the Thracian Kings’. Here, we will explore some of the funeral mounds, including a replica of the Kazanlak Tomb.

Hotel: Ramada Trimonzium Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Plovdiv - Stara Zagora

The Thracian tomb of Aleksandrovo with its fine mosaics, is first on our list to visit today. Followed by Stara Zagora, where we will explore the Neolithic Dwellings Museum, as well as the Roman site of Ulpia Augusta Traiana.

Hotel: Park Hotel Meals: All meals included

We head into the beautiful foothills of the Rila mountains, to visit the iconic Rila Monastery, founded in the 10th century AD by the followers of St. Ivan of Rila.

Hotel: Hotel Central Park Meals: All meals included

Day Twelve | Depart Sofia

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

35

north cyprus Guaranteed: 25th April - 2nd May | 24th - 31st October 2019 | 8 Days from $3,595 (single supplement $485) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Ancient statues, Salamis

C

yprus offers a beautiful setting for archaeological discovery. Our journey through the northern part of the Island takes us amidst the unspoiled natural landscape of this sun-blanched land; we discover an array of medieval castles and churches, expansive Classical sites and gentle villages. Meet with a local archaeologist who offers a real insight into the ongoing excavations on the island.

Salamis is, of course, a real highlight and easily North Cyprus’ best archaeological site. Discover the fully resorted Roman theater, a gymnasium with a monumental bath house attached, cisterns, Byzantine churches and much more.

highlights

guide lecturers Terry Richardson has a background in Ancient History and Classical Civilization.

He first traveled to Turkey as an undergraduate in 1977 and has been back countless times since. He also lived in southwest Turkey for some 13 years.

He is the author of Rough Guide Istanbul, Pocket Rough Guide Istanbul and is main author of Rough Guide Turkey. Terry has worked on many other guides, including Eyewitness Istanbul and Eyewitness Turkey, and has written about Turkey and Istanbul for publications as varied as The Daily Telegraph, The Guardian and Wanderlust.

Explore the rich sites of once mighty Classical cities Visit Byzantine churches and domed Ottoman mosques Enjoy breathtaking views from the Kyrenia Mountains Stay in the picturesque harbour town of Kyrenia Discover ancient Salamis with its Royal Tombs

special access

We will enjoy a specially arranged guided tour to the ongoing excavations at the fascinating Aceramic Neolithic settlement of Akanthou, led by the head of the project. Research here has shed new insights into the earliest phases of permanent occupation on the island, revealing six well-preserved building foundations. The findings are considered to throw new light on our understanding of the origins of the early settlers, domestication and trade with the mainland.

36

Myrthou Pigadhes

Kyrenia

Vouni Palace Nicosia Ancient Soli Ercan Airport

Akanthou Salamis Enkomi Famagusta

Cyprus

www.andantetravels.com/ncy

**

4th century BC. After lunch, we explore ancient Lamboussa, including the necropolis and Roman fish tanks.

Hotel: Arkin Colony Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Kyrenia

We begin at the magnificent Castle of St. Hilarion. The best preserved of the Kyrenia castles, it was originally founded as a monastery, later fortified by the Byzantines as a defense against Arabian pirates, and then as a mountain retreat by the Lusignans. We drive to Nicosia, the divided capital of Cyprus, to visit the northern, Turkish part of the city. We visit the 16th century Büyük Han, an Ottoman caravanserai, Nicosia’s Selimiye Mosque, converted from a Lusignan-era cathedral in 1570, and walk along the Green Line.

Hotel: Arkin Colony Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Kyrenia

This morning we travel to the famous Bellapais Abbey, a 13thcentury monastery noted for its superb Gothic architecture, set in a pretty village immortalised in Lawrence Durrell’s 1950s memoir ‘Bitter Lemons of Cyprus’. This afternoon we head for the Neolithic settlement of Akanthou, where we have special access to ongoing excavations. The site includes a faithful reconstruction of one of the dwellings discovered on the site.

Hotel: Arkin Colony Meals: All meals included Saint Hilarion Castle, Kyrenia

Day Seven | Kyrenia

Day One | Famagusta

Arrive in Cyprus and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy some free time to explore or to relax before meeting the group tomorrow.

Hotel: Arkin Palm Beach Meals: Snack in hotel room due to late arrival

This morning we travel to Güzelyurt, stopping en-route to see the well-known altar at the late Bronze Age sanctuary of Myrtou Pigadhes, set in a lovely valley. We continue to Morphou to see the Museum of Archaeology and Natural History before heading to the 5th century BC Palace of Vouni, with its beautiful views out across the sea. Our final visit is to the ruins of Soli, once one of the ten ancient city kingdoms of Cyprus.

Hotel: Arkin Colony Meals: All meals included

Day Two | Famagusta

Day Eight | Depart Kyrenia

itinerary

We spend a full day in Famagusta. We enjoy a walking tour during which we see St Nicholas Cathedral, turned into a mosque following the Ottoman conquest, the splendid churches of the various Eastern Christian denominations, the remnants of the Venetian palace, and the wonderfully well-preserved city walls themselves.

Hotel: Arkin Palm Beach Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Famagusta

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

looking for a longer break?

Here at Andante Travels, we have planned our Cyprus tours around each other. Opt to join our October departures back to back, offering you the chance to explore the area in further detail.

We enjoy a morning at the ancient site of Salamis, famous for its archaic period ‘Royal Tombs’, as well its 15,000 capacity theater, impressive bath house complete with mosaics, and numerous other remnants from what was once Cyprus’ premier city. This afternoon we wander the Bronze Age city of Enkomi. Seldom visited today, it was once an important trading center.

Hotel: Arkin Palm Beach Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Famagusta - Kyrenia

We start the day with a guided tour of the impressive Kyrenia Castle, which dates back to the Byzantine period, and has also served the Crusaders, Venetians, Ottomans and British in the long contest over the ownership of the island. We also visit the Shipwreck Museum, housed in Kyrenia Castle, which tells the story of trade in the Mediterranean at the turn of the

Liberty Monument in Nicosia

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south cyprus 17th - 23rd October 2019 | 7 Days from $3,595 (single supplement $565) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

The Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates

T

his Mediterranean island has a rich prehistoric, Classical and medieval past. Recent research has pushed back the dates for the earliest occupation of Cyprus to over 10,000 years ago, and over millennia the people of Cyprus developed their own distinctive aftifacts, buildings, art and culture.

A very beautiful journey takes us through the land fames as the birthplace of Aphrodite. Dr. Paul Croft, who has devoted his career to the study of Cypriot archaeology, leads us from the prehistoric and Classical sites, overlooking the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean, to the remains of the Crusaders from the Middle Ages.

highlights Diverse archaeology from Neolithic houses to mosaics

guide lecturers Dr. Paul Croft is a British archaeozoologist and field archaeologist. He is the manager of the Lemba Archaeological Research Center and a resident of Cyprus. Besides participating in several excavations in the Middle East, Paul is involved in many Cypriot Archaeological Projects and he has excavated and analyzed material from sites such as Kissonerga, Kalavassos Ayios Dhimitrios, and one of the Hellenistic rock-cut tomb complexes at the Tombs of the Kings. As manager of the Lemba Center, he is also maintaing the reconstructed Chalcolithic houses at the Lemba Experimental Village.

Journey into the unspoilt Troodos Mountains Visit the Cyprus Museum, home to the most important aftifacts on the island Explore the renowned World Heritage Site of Paphos Spend the final morning at Aphrodite’s Sanctuary Nicosia

Cyprus

special access

We have the chance to meet Dr. Alison South at Kalavassos Ayios Dhimitrios, a late Bronze Age olive oil factory, thought to have been as large as 10 acres. Alison has directed excavations here for many years and finds have revealed a large monumental structure - probably the administrative center of the settlement, and ‘Pithos Hall’, where remains of over 50 large storage jars can be found.

38

Kakopetria Paphos

Larnaca Khirokitia Kalavasos

Kourion

Kouklia

Limassol

www.andantetravels.com/cyp

**

Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Limassol - Paphos

Into Classical Cyprus at the ancient city of Kourion, which blossomed under the Ptolemies and Romans. We see the remains including a (reconstructed) Graeco-Roman theater, and Roman houses with superb mosaics. We then continue to the important religious center known as the Sanctuary of Apollo Ylatis (‘of the woods’). Finally, we proceed to KissonergaMosphilia, one of the major Chalcolithic sites of Cyprus with a long history of habitation from the 7th to the 3rd millennium.

Apart from the interesting architectural features uncovered here, the site is outstanding for its evidence of ritual behavior.

Hotel: Hotel: Hotel Azia Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Paphos

Our visit today is to the World Heritage site of Paphos. We explore the elaborate rock cut so-called ‘Tombs of the Kings’ which date from the 3rd century BC. We spend lunch within Paphos Harbour before continuing to the Archaeological Park to see Nea Paphos and the fantastic mosaics there.

Hotel: Hotel: Hotel Azia Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Depart Paphos

This morning we visit the famous Sanctuary of Aphrodite at the World Heritage Site of Kouklia. After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included Tombs of the Kings, Paphos

itinerary Day One | Limassol

Arrive in Cyprus and transfer to the hotel. Enjoy some free time to explore or to relax before meeting the group tomorrow.

Hotel: Hotel Alasia Meals: Snack in hotel room due to late arrival

looking for a longer break?

Here at Andante Travels, we have planned our Cyprus tours around each other. Opt to join our October departures back to back, offering you the chance to explore the area in further detail.

Day Two | Limassol

We begin our day at the site of Khirokitia, an exceptionally preserved Neolithic walled village with over 60 stone roundhouses. We enjoy a specially arranged tour to the Bronze Age olive oil ‘factory’ excavations at Kalavasos Ayios. After lunch we continue to the Crusader fortress of Kolossi. We end the day at Limassol Castle.

Hotel: Hotel Alasia Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Limassol

We journey to the Cypriot capital of Nicosia. Founded in the Bronze Age, the city has been continuously inhabited for almost 5000 years. We visit the Cyprus Archaeological Museum, which houses the world’s most extensive collections of Cypriot archaeology. We also visit the Leventis Museum, after which we have some free time to walk around the old town, including the well-preserved Venetian walls, built in a futile attempt to defend the city from Ottoman invasion.

Hotel: Hotel Alasia Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Limassol

We drive into the beautiful Troodos mountains to visit a wonderful series of frescoed Byzantine churches, many of which are World Heritage Sites. The lively details and colors in the frescoes are remarkable. We also stop at the traditional town of Kakopetria, the medieval streets picturesquely set.

Hotel: Hotel Alasia

Ruins of ancient Kourion

39

malta & gozo 14th - 20th October 2019 | 7 Days from $3,603 (single supplement $690) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Hagar Qim, ancient Megalithic Temple

A

thousand years before the Great Pyramid at Giza was constructed, people on the tiny island of Malta were moving stones weighing up to 50 tonnes. At 5500 years old, the megalithic temples of Malta and Gozo are among the oldest ritual structures in the world - decorated with some of the most extraordinary art to be found anywhere in the Mediterranean.

Led by an archaeologist specializing in Maltese history and archaeology, we explore the many ages of Malta: from those ancient temples and into the medieval period. We also spend a day in Valletta, built by the crusading Knights Hospitaller, having defeated the Ottoman Turks in the great siege of 1565.

highlights Spend a day in Valletta, a World Heritage Site

guide lecturers Dr. Jeremy Bennett is a British archaeologist and is currently studying for his PhD, examining Maltese agricultural terraces. He lives and works in Ankara, where he is Assistant Professor in the Department of Archaeology at Bilkent University. Although he teaches classes on all periods of Turkish archaeology, he is particularly interested in the art and architecture of the Roman Empire, as well as the architecture of the Eastern Roman Empire in the late antique and early medieval periods. Jeremy is deeply interested in the Roman Army, particularly the auxiliary units of common soldiers and their deployment across the Empire.

Enjoy a harbour cruise to the port of Valletta Gaze in awe at the Grand Master’s Palace Travel to the Ghar Dalam Cave Discover the Victoria Citadel, the fortress of Gozo

Victoria

Ggantija

Gozo

special access

During this captivating tour we are granted special access to the monuments of Ta’ Cenc. There are 3 tombs assumed to be from the early Bronze Age, which will offer an interesting insight into the time. The dolmens and passage graves make this a particularly fascinating site to discover and its history will be illuminated as we walk around it. Ta’ Cenc is indeed an area of ecological, geological and historical heritage, which further justifies the protection status it enjoys.

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Mgarr Skorba

Malta

Buskett

Mdina Rabat

Hagar Qim Mnajdra

Valletta Tarxien Ghar Dalam

www.andantetravels.com/mal

* *

Ggantija, a prehistoric temple constructed of massive stone bricks, and Xaghra, the stone circle and funerary complex.

We have special access to Ta’ Cenc prehistoric temple with dolmens and passage graves. This afternoon we travel to Victoria Citadel, the 17th century fortress of Gozo and visible from most of the island. We also visit the Archaeological Museum.

Hotel: Hotel Excelsior Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Valletta

Back on Malta, we visit the magnificent Hagar Qim and Mnajdra - part of a cluster of temple sites evocatively located on a hillside by the sea. We continue to Tarxien, the most elaborate of all the Maltese Megalithic temples which have undergone extensive excavation. We travel on to the Ghar Dalam cave, which consists of a water-worn tunnel accessible by humans for about 80m, in which large quantities of Pleistocene faunal remains were found.

Hotel: Hotel Excelsior Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Valletta

Ta’ Ħaġrat temples in Mġarr a UNESCO World Heritage Site

itinerary Day One | Valletta

Arrive in Valletta and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Hotel Excelsior Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Valletta

We begin at the two conjoined temples of Ta’ Ħaġrat at Mġarr, built during the 4th millennium BC. We continue to Skorba, an excavated settlement site which has made a significant contribution to the understanding of early Maltese prehistory.

We spend the afternoon at the ancient capital of Malta, Mdina, a walled city with winding streets. It also served as the island’s capital from antiquity through to the medieval period. We move on to Buskett to view the enigmatic ‘cart ruts’ cut into the hilllside, features that occur on both Malta and Gozo, worn into the bedrock.

Hotel: Hotel Excelsior Meals: All meals included

We take a harbour cruise in the morning to view the port of Valletta from the sea. Afloat, one can imagine the assembled might of the Ottoman Turkish armada, estimated to contain up to 45,000 men. The siege, which lasted for 4 months in the summer of 1565, was a turning point which undermined the perceived invincibility of the Ottoman army. As Queen Elizabeth wrote, ‘If the Turks should prevail against the isle of Malta, it is uncertain what further peril might follow to the rest of Christendom.’ We return to shore for free time this afternoon - a chance for souvenir shopping and a final stroll in the old town.

Hotel: Hotel Excelsior Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Depart Valletta

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Valletta

We enjoy a day exploring Valletta on foot. Founded by the Knights Hospitaller, following the Great Siege of 1565, this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site occupying a commanding position over two harbours. We begin with the exceptional array of aftifacts from Malta’s unique prehistoric periods in the Archaeological Museum, from man’s first arrival on the island, up to the end of the Bronze Age. We also visit St John’s Cathedral and the Grand Master’s Palace with façades of some of the many Auberges of the Knights.

Hotel: Hotel Excelsior Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Valletta - Gozo

We travel by ferry to the island of Gozo where we visit

Neptune statue in garden of the Grand Master’s Palace

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classical greece Full departure list in the dates section | 10 Days from $4,259 (single supplement $600) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

The Acropolis of Athens

E

xplore the birthplace of western civilization - Classical Greece. Let this epic odyssey through ancient Greece bring you ever closer to the foundations of modern society as we take in the key sites of this historic land. Beginning in the capital of Athens, we experience the hustle and bustle of life today as we tour the Acropolis and its park.

Pore over enchanting aftifacts at regional archaeological museums, learn more about ancient Greek beliefs, and take time to visit buildings (and, of course, remains) of significance on this ten-day adventure. Its unique culture and the country’s natural beauty ensure that you will be left with lasting memories long after you return home.

guide lecturers

Dr. Rita Roussos Dr. Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley Dr. Sandy MacGillivray See more information on page 8

dates highlights Enjoy a special sunset visit to the Temple of Poseidon Admire collections housed in fabulous archaeological museums Indulge in delicious regional cuisine and traditional dishes

G: 7th - 16th Apr Guide Lecturer: Dr. Rita Roussos 5th - 14th May Guide Lecturer: Dr. Christina Hatzimichael-Whitley 10th - 19th Sep Guide Lecturer: Dr. Rita Roussos G: 3rd - 12th Oct Guide Lecturer: Dr. Sandy MacGillivray

Tour the Corinth Archaeological Site alongside its former director Explore the delights of Delphi & the Sanctuary of Apollo Thebes

special access

Corinth, located in a strategic position at ancient land routes and thereby controlling trade, was once one of the major cities in Greece.

During a specially arranged tour with the former director of the site, we will explore the ancient monuments such as the Doric Temple of Apollo, the Agora, the theater and the Roman Odeion, and gain first-hand insights to the excavations undertaken here.

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Athens

Greece Mycenae Napfilion Ippoliti

Sounion

www.andantetravels.com/cgr

* *

Day Five | Athens

We journey via Mount Parnassus to Delphi, a breathtaking site famous for its pan-Hellenic Sanctuary of Apollo and its oracle, the Pythia. We have a full day to explore this vast site with all its monuments, once regarded as the navel (“omphalos”) of the world, in its impressive setting.

Hotel: Hotel Herodion or Hotel Plaka Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Athens

Today’s excursion takes us to Ancient Thebes (Thiva). We spend the morning in the local museum, and then visit Ancient Thebes itself, the mythical home of Oedipus. After lunch, we head on to Eleusis, famous for the Eleusian Mysteries, centerd around Demeter and Persephone.

Hotel: Hotel Herodion or Hotel Plaka Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Athens - Nafplion

We travel to Isthmia. Here we visit the Archaic Temple of Poseidon, and the site museum. Our journey takes us to Corinth, once one of the largest and wealthiest city-states in Greece, where we explore the Doric Temple of Apollo.

Hotel: Hotel Ippoliti or similar Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Nafplion Ancient site of Mycenae

itinerary Day One | Athens

Our first visit is to the Archaeological Museum of Nafplion, housed in a Venetian building. After lunch, we head to the sanctuary of the healing god Aesclepios at Epidaurus.

Hotel: Hotel Ippoliti or similar Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Nafplion - Athens

Arrive in Athens and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Hotel Herodion or Hotel Plaka Meals: Snack in hotel room due to late arrival included

We spend the day at Mycenae and wander the ancient citadel including the Lion Gate, Grave Circles, and the remains of the palace. After lunch, we visit the museum.

Hotel: Hotel Herodion or Hotel Plaka Meals: All meals included

Day Two | Athens

Day Ten | Depart Athens

We start with a walking tour of the Agora, before we wander the halls of the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, housing the most important collection of ancient Greek art.

Hotel: Hotel Herodion or Hotel Plaka Meals: All meals included

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Athens

This morning we journey to Bauron, where we will see the Sanctuary of Artemis. After lunch in Lavrion, we visit a local museum where finds from this area are on display. On to Ancient Thorikos, another Greek city in Attica and the former mining center of the Laureotica. Later, we travel to Cape Sounion and have the chance to marvel at the Temple of Poseidon before sunset. We will have dinner here this evening.

Hotel: Hotel Herodion or Hotel Plaka Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Athens

In the morning we explore the famous Acropolis and South Slope, with impressive structures, and unique masterpieces of ancient architecture. The most important structures visible today derive from the Golden Age of Pericles, 5th century BC. The vastness of ruins on this site is astonishing. After lunch, we pay a visit to the Acropolis Museum, where glass floors showcase excavations below and we see an array of friezes. We end the day at the British School of Athens.

Hotel: Hotel Herodion or Hotel Plaka Meals: All meals included

The ancient Agora in Athens

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epirus & macedonia

Greece’s Northern Glories

Guaranteed: 20th - 29th May 2019 | 23 September - 2 October 2019 | 10 Days from $4,125 (single supplement $565) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

Holy Trinity Monastery in Meteora

W

e follow in the footsteps of conquerors and cross mountainous landscapes in mainland Greece. This dramatic region was the birthplace of two of the greatest rulers of the ancient world: Philip II and Alexander the Great. Palaces, houses, painted tombs and exquisite pebble mosaics survive at the Macedonian cities of Verghina and Pella.

We travel to towering Meteora, deep in the Pindus Mountains, where sky-scraping Byzantine monasteries perch on pinnacles of mountain rock - built as a means to withdraw from the world. This tour of Northern Greece is full of fantastic archaeological sites, marked over the centuries by a cornucopia of peoples and cultures.

highlights Visit the tomb of Philip II and its extraordinary museum See the vertiginous, 14th century Meteora monasteries

guide lecturers Dr. Christina HatzimichaelWhitley specializes in the Minoan Crete era and is the co-director of the Praisos survey and excavation project in Crete. She is a tutor in Greek Archaeology at the Cardiff Center for Lifelong Learning.

Dr. Milena Melfi lectures in Classical Art and Archaeology at Oxford University (New College). Milena has worked on surveys and excavations in Greece, Sicily and Albania, and she specializes in the archaeology of ancient religion.

Spend a day exploring wonderful ancient sites of Thessaloniki Explore Pella, the birthplace of Alexander Visit the shrine and oracles of Zeus at Dodona

Pella Thessaloniki

Greece

special access

Professor Konstantinos Zachos leads us through the ancient city of Nikopolis, providing us with a unique insight into this remarkable region. The foundation of Nikopolis is directly associated with a major historical event, Emperor Augustus’ victory in the Battle of Actium against the combined forces of Mark Anthony and Cleopatra. It was an event of tremendous significance, as it signalled the beginning of the Roman Empire.

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Meteora

Kassiope

Ioannina

Dodona

Verghina Dion Vale of Tempe Pyli-Thessaly

Nekromanteion Nikopolis

Arta

www.andantetravels.com/mac

**

Day Five | Ioannina - Meteora

We drive to Meteora to spend the whole day wandering the spectacular, vertiginous monasteries here - home to a monastic community dating back to the 14th century.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Meteora Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Meteora - Thessaloniki

We begin with a drive to Ampelakai to visit the Georgios Schwartz mansion. From here we journey through the Vale of Tempe, a beautiful gorge which was thought to be the haunt of Apollo and the Muses in antiquity. We end the day at Dion to see the remains of the theaters and a bath complex.

Hotel: Electra Palace Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Thessaloniki

We spend the morning in Thessaloniki exploring its ancient sites and monuments. We see the Roman forum, the Rotonda, as well as the Arch and Palace of Galerius. In the afternoon, we drive out to Verghina, to visit the tumulus, identified as the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great.

Hotel: Electra Palace Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Thessaloniki

Ruins of ancient Pella, Macedonia

itinerary Day One | Thessaloniki

Arrive in Thessaloniki and transfer to our first hotel Ioannina.

Hotel: Saz City Life Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Ioannina

We drive to Nikopolis, once the capital of Epirus Vetus, with its well preserved ruins. Here, we visit the theater, odeon, victory monument, and the ancient city center including its walls and basilicas. In the afternoon, we visit Kassope. Its layout is based on the Hippodamian plan and considered as one of the best remaining examples of its kind.

Hotel: Saz City Life Meals: All meals included

This morning, we visit the most important exhibitions in Thessaloniki in the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Byzantine Culture. Next, we travel to the ancient site of Pella, birthplace of Alexander the Great, to visit the monumental palatial complex and the outstanding mosaics, now on display in the museum.

Hotel: Electra Palace Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Thessaloniki

On our last day we visit the Castle of Rendina, set on a hilltop in stunning landscape. Back in Thessaloniki, we view the fortifications and upper town. We end the day at Agios Dimitrios, one of the most impressive churches in Greece.

Hotel: Electra Palace Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Depart Thessaloniki

We transfer to the airport for our individual flights home.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Ioannina

Our journey leads to Dodona to view the shrine and oracles of Zeus, where the god spoke to supplicants via the rustling of leave in an oak tree. We travel on to Orraon, an EpiroteMolossian city, with impressive remains of houses and public buildings. We end the day in Arta, to visit the Archaeological Museum and Panagia Parigoritissa, one of the most important Byzantine churches in Greece.

Hotel: Saz City Life Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Ioannina

Today will be spend in Ioannina. This morning, we visit the Archaeological Museum and enjoy a walking tour of the town. Stopping at the citadel, we wander the exhibitions of the Byzantine Museum. Our afternoon is free to either explore Ioannina at your own leisure.

Hotel: Saz City Life Meals: All meals included Roman theatre of Nikopolis

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crete revisited 30th September - 7th October 2019 | 8 Days from $3,245 (single supplement $480) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

The Arkadi Monastery

T

his beautiful Mediterranean destination may be the most populous and well-trodden of the Greek islands, but Crete still has secrets, surprises and hidden sites waiting to be uncovered.

Join us as we explore the famous Minoan ‘Palaces’ and settlements; trace the island’s fortunes through the Classical Greek and Roman periods, and gain a deeper understanding of the glorious west. As we journey through the Cretan landscape, we witness it unfold in an undeniably artistic way: a tapestry of beaches, ancient treasures, vibrant cities and enigmatic villages. The natural beauty we find, is surpassed only by the richness of its history.

highlights Explore lesser-known archaeological remains

guide lecturers Dr. Sandy MacGillivray is an archaeologist specializing in the Aegean Bronze Age and the civilizations of Crete, the Cyclades and mainland Greece during this period. He has excavated at Sparta, Paros, Kythnos, and at Knossos in Crete. He has also co-directed excavations at Palaikastro.

Sandy is particularly interested in the relationship between Greece, the Cyclades and Crete, as well as the cultures of Turkey and the Levant during this turbulent period.

Sandy’s publications include, “Minotaur.

Sir Arthur Evans and the Archaeology of the Minoan Myth” and “The Prehistoric Cyclades”.

Visit Aptera, one of the most significant city states of the island Discover the Mycenaean cemetery at Armeni Embark upon an engaging walking tour of Chania Take a boat trip to Lissos Chania

Kissamos

special access

We have the chance to visit the incredible site of Zominthos.

Recently discovered in 1982, this two-storey Minoan building is still under excavation. It is located at a height, considerably above the Minoan and modern Cretan settlements. It is speculated to have been a seasonal dwelling in the summer months when flocks of sheep were taken to higher levels of grazing. The building was occupied until 1600 BC, where it was impacted by an earthquake and left abandoned.

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Aptera

Phalasarna

Crete

Rethymnon

Elyros Sougia

www.andantetravels.com/wcr

* *

Roman town famous for its two harbours. In the Classical period, it was the most important city in southwestern Crete as it formed both an industrial and commercial center.

Hotel: Overnight in Chania Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Chania - Rethymnon

On our journey to Rethymnon we visit Aptera, an archaeological site just inland of Souda Bay and the mythological setting for the legendary contest between the Sirens and the Muses. We stop to explore a Mycenaean cemetery at Armeni. Later, we have some free time to explore charming Rethymnon.

Hotel: Overnight in Rethymnon Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Rethymnon

We discover the archaeological site and museum at Eleutherna, located at the northwest foot of Mount Ida. Excavations in the area have revealed finds from the Neolithic period through to the Byzantine. After lunch we visit the Eastern Orthodox Arkadi Monastery, a continuous part of Cretan history for the last eight centuries.

Hotel: Overnight in Rethymnon Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Rethymnon Ancient Minoan cemetery of Armeni

itinerary Day One | Chania

Upon arrival in Crete, we transfer to our hotel. In the afternoon, we enjoy an introductory lecture from our expert guide.

Hotel: Overnight in Chania Meals: Dinner included

Rethymnon Archaeological Museum awaits, housed in a former civic prison. It is home to finds from the late Neolithic to the Roman period. Then, we visit the new excavations at Zominthos, where we have special access and a guided tour by one of the excavators. A walking tour of Rethymnon follows.

Hotel: Overnight in Rethymnon Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Rethymnon

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Two | Chania

Our morning begins at the Chania Archaeological Museum, which is set in a lovingly and beautifully restored 16th century Venetian church. From here, we visit the site of Kydonia - on whose former site modern-day Chania is now built. Later, we enjoy a walking tour of the town’s historic center. Its many narrow lanes take us past a magnificent harbour, a picturesque Venetian quarter, restored townhouses and more. This is the perfect opportunity to appreciate the culture and atmosphere of the area.

Hotel: Overnight in Chania Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Chania

We begin the day at Kissamos Museum, housed in a VenetianTurkish monument known as Diikitirio - or headquarters. It is now home to great exhibits that paint a picture of the region, from prehistory to present. Later, we go on to explore the ancient city of Polyrhenia, which once dominated the plain and gulf of Kissamos, and the Hellenistic town of Phalasarna with its distinctive closed harbour.

Hotel: Overnight in Chania Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Chania

Next, we embark on a boat journey around the coast to Lissos and explore the Temple of Asklepion. In ancient times, this served as a healing center as the water of Lissos was considered to have medicinal qualities. We travel to Elyros, a Doric and

Amphitheater at the ancient city of Aptera, Chania

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albania

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

Land of the Eagles

Guaranteed: 12th - 20th April 2019 | 27th September - 5th October 2019 | 9 Days from $2,975 (single supplement $355) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Oliver, our Guide Lecturer, leading a talk in Butrint

A

country unlike any other in Europe and still off the mainstream tourist trail, Albania is home to pristine ruins, rich archaeological heritage and great museums. In Classical times, the Greeks and Romans built cities overlooking the sparkling waters of the Ionian sea, centuries later, Byzantine Christians and Ottoman Turks fought over dramatic mountain strongholds.

Famously visited by Lord Byron, and painted by Edward Lear, Albania is a country which has transformed itself into a modern European country from the secretive and backward Stalinist state of 30 years ago, with its archaeology and history at the forefront of its heritage.

highlights Tour 2,000 years of untouched archaeological heritage

guide lecturers Oliver Gilkes is a leading expert on Albanian archaeology and is the author of “Albania: an archaeological guide.”

Oliver has worked for over 10 years as a field archaeologist in Italy at both Classical and medieval sites, before moving across the Adriatic to Albania, where he worked at the World Heritage Site of Butrint and evocative medieval city of Gjirokastra. Oliver is still involved in a number of projects in Albania and is one of a handful of experts on the archaeology of Albania in the United Kingdom. He currently works for Andante Travels, designing new tours worldwide.

Spend a full day at the World Heritage Site of Butrint Travel alongside our expert guide, Oliver Gilkes Explore Albania’s bustling capital of Tirana The wonderful church of Saint Mary in Apollonia

Kruja Durres Tirana

Albania

tirana archaeological museum

Enjoy exclusive access to the brilliant Tirana Archaeological Museum, located on the east of Mother Teresa Square. It was the first museum founded in this country after the Second World War and it houses exhibits from Classical times up to the Modern Period. The collections here are extensive and range from Roman Statues to jewelry and to ancient clay pots, each of which tells a different story.

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Apollonia

Berat Byllis

Gjirokastra Saranda Butrint

www.andantetravels.com/alb

* *

Day Five | Saranda - Gjirokastra

Today we cross the mountains and arrive in Gjirokastra. Here, we have the chance to visit the Gjirokastra Museum, the medieval Fortress and the National Museum of Armaments.

This afternoon we enjoy a special visit to the late Ottoman mansion, Zekate House.

Hotel: Hotel Cajupi Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Gjirokastra - Berat

We continue north to the ruins of Byllis. According to legend, the city was founded by warriors led by Neoptolemus, the son of Achilles returning from the Trojan wars. Archaeologists have uncovered a Hellenistic era stadium, theater and fortifications.

After lunch we will visit Byllis Cathedral, formerly known as Basilica B. Later we will drive to Berat and enjoy dinner at our hotel.

Hotel: Hotel Belagrita Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Berat

Today we shift from Classical to medieval times in the attractive town of Berat, full of traditional architecture. Here we will explore many Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and the Onufri Museum, home to a spectacular collection of 16th century artwork.

Hotel: Hotel Belagrita, Berat Meals: All meals included Roman baptistery in Butrint

Day Eight | Berat - Kruja

Day One | Tirana

Arrive in Tirana and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Tirana International Meals: Dinner included

We visit Durrës, Albania’s chief port and the starting point of the Via Egnatia. Here on the site of ancient Dyrrachium we visit the 2nd century amphitheater, the largest in the Balkans, as well as sections of the mighty walls. This afternoon we continue to Kruja, an interesting town set in beautiful countryside. We visit the Skanderbeg Museum and wander through the Ottoman bazaar.

Hotel: Hotel Panorama Meals: All meals included

Day Two | Tirana

Day Nine | Depart Kruja

itinerary

We begin with a full day in Albania’s lively capital, Tirana. We visit the National Historical Museum and the National Gallery. After lunch, we have private access to the Archaeological Museum and have time to admire the vast collections on display.

Hotel: Tirana International Meals: All meals included

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Tirana - Saranda

We drive to Apollonia Archaeological Park, site of the Greek colony founded by the Corinthians in 588BC, and one of the most important Greek cities on the Adriatic. Today the excavations are surrounded by olive and oak trees. This afternoon we drive along the beautiful Ionian coast, stopping for lunch in Vlora, before arriving in Saranda this evening.

Hotel: Hotel Brilant Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Saranda

Our entire day will be spent at Butrint, which achieved UNESCO World Heritage status in 1992 and remains Albania’s best known site, and one of the most striking in the Mediterranean. After lunch at Butrint Castle, we explore the museum housed there, before walking down to catch the ferry across the Vivari Channel. Here we will see the Venetian Triangular Fortress.

Hotel: Hotel Brilant Meals: All meals included

Church of Saint Mary in Apollonia

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albania

Montenegro & Kosovo

5th - 13th September 2019 | 9 Days from $3,413 (single supplement $345) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Budva, Montenegro, located on the Adriatic Sea

T

ravel from the shores of the Adriatic high up into the Albanian mountains, through soaring Montenegro and on to the plains of Kosovo. Journey through ancient coastal cities, attractive medieval towns, and wild landscapes, to discover Ottoman mosques jostling for space along the narrow streets. The region hosts a swathe of little-known archaeological sites that will delight even the worldliest of travelers, whilst the abundant natural beauty will capture your imagination and linger in your memory.

Join us as we trace the diverse civilizations who have left their mark, from Illyrians, to Romans, Ottomans and the Albanians.

highlights Explore Rozafa castle

guide lecturers Oliver Gilkes is a leading expert on Albanian archaeology and is the author of “Albania: an archaeological guide.”

Oliver has worked for over 10 years as a field archaeologist in Italy at both Classical and medieval sites, before moving across the Adriatic to Albania, where he worked at the World Heritage Site of Butrint and evocative medieval city of Gjirokastra. Oliver is still involved in a number of projects in Albania and is one of a handful of experts on the archaeology of Albania in the United Kingdom. He currently works for Andante Travels, designing new tours worldwide.

Visit the excavations of the Roman city of Ulpiana See the stunning painted Serbian monasteries in Kosovo Witness the sublime Bay of Kotor and the idyllic Adriatic Coast

Kosovo Montenegro

Enjoy a spectacular voyage along the Black Drin Kotor Budva

archaeological albania

Albania is a country offering an experience unlike any other.

Oliver Gilkes, our guide lecturer, is a world authority in the region and his experience over the last 26 years has given him a great perspective.

Travelling with him lets us discover great archaeological collections usually off the tourist radar in this fascinating region. We have privileged access to Ulpiana, the Roman hub of communications in Kosovo, as well as an exclusive visit to a place of legend, Rozafa Castle.

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Ulpima

Kolascin

Peja

Moraca Doclea Cetinje Shkodra

Fierza Koman

Prizren

Lezhe

Albania Kruja Tirana

www.andantetravels.com/akm

***

Orthodox monastery and 13th century frescoes.

Hotel: Hotel Bianca Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Kolascin - Prizren

Our tour of the region continues as we descend into the plains of Kosovo this morning. Along our journey we visit the patriarchate of Peja, a 13th century monastery which contains a mausoleum and interconnecting churches. We then continue to Deçan, Kosovo’s biggest and best preserved medieval monastery.

Hotel: Hotel Centrium Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Prizren

Today, we visit the Shiroku tumulus group. Here, we find burial sites of Iron Age Illyrians and their Bronze Age predecessors. On towards Ulpiana, a Roman city founded by Emperor Trajan to be the center of a rich mining district. Our final stop is the exceptional Gracanica Monastery.

Hotel: Hotel Centrium Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Prizren - Kruja

The legendary Rozafa Castle

itinerary Day One | Shkodra

Upon arrival in Albania we transfer to the hotel in Shkodra.

Take the time to unwind before enjoying dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Hotel Rozafa Meals: Dinner included

Day Two| Shkodra - Budva

This morning will be spent exploring Shkodra. We begin at the Historical Museum before continuing onto the Marubi Museum. After lunch we visit one of Albania’s largest defenses - the legendary Rozafa Castle. From its imposing position upon a rocky hill, we are treated to spectacular views of the Albanian Alps. After we have discovered the sights and stories of this city, we cross the border into Montenegro.

Hotel: Hotel Bracera Meals: All meals included

We drive to tranquil Koman, where we catch a ferry to take us along the spectacular gorge of the Black Drin River to the dam at Fierze. The lake was created by the Albanian communists to feed the ‘Light of the Path’ hydro-electric combine in the 1980s.

Hotel: Hotel Panorama Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Kruja

Our final full day in the Balkans begins with a drive north to Lezhe. Here we visit the remains of the ancient city, Skanderberg’s grave and his castle. The afternoon we return to Kruja, where we spend our final night.

Hotel: Hotel Panorama Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Depart Tirana

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Budva

We leave our hotel and drive to Cetinje, the old royal capital of King Nikola. Founded in the 15th century, it soon became a hub of Montenegrin culture, as well as a center for the country’s Orthodox faith. Next, we explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor, one of the best preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic, where we walk down the cobbled streets to see the Venetian walls. We return to Budva for dinner this evening.

Hotel: Hotel Bracera Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Budva - Kolascin

We have a morning visit to Budva and its Archaeological Museum before heading onto Doclea. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a glimpse of ancient Montenegrin life. Next we head into the mountains to explore the rugged landscape of Moraca, with a world-renowned Serbian

The ruins of Rozafa, offering views over the Albanian Alps

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albania & macedonia

The Via Egnatia

7th - 15th October 2019 | 9 Days from $3,353 (single supplement $355) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

St. Jovan Kaneo Church, Macedonia

T

his is a journey through time and civilizations across the dramatic landscapes of southeast Europe. Albania, Macedonia and the Balkans represent a vast patchwork of cultures and civilizations. Our tour takes in the tombs and treasures of Philip of Macedon, the late Imperial glories of Thessaloniki, and the beautiful medieval churches on the shores of Lake Ohrid.

Divided by mountains, the Balkans are united by ancient roads, which kept the disparate states and Empires in contact and conflict. The greatest of these was the Via Egnatia, a series of tracks used by the Romans to expedite their conquest of Illyria and Macedonia.

highlights Explore the ancient ruins of Apollonia

guide lecturers Oliver Gilkes is an expert on Balkan archaeology and is the author of “Albania: an archaeological guide.” He has worked for over 10 years as a field archaeologist in Italy at both Classical and medieval sites, before moving across the Adriatic to Albania, where he worked at the World Heritage Site of Butrint and evocative medieval city of Gjirokastra. Oliver is still involved in a number of projects in Albania and is one of a handful of experts on the archaeology of Albania in the United Kingdom. He currently works for Andante Travels, designing new tours worldwide.

View the thundering waterfalls in Edessa Experience Albania’s lively capital, Tirana Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ohrid Discover the palace complex of Galerius Ohrid

Tirana

aigai

Tread in the very footsteps of Romans we as retrace the route of the Via Egnatia following, as far as possible its route, and finding its archaeological and historic treasures. We visit Aigai, the royal capital of ancient Macedonia. Here was the palace was built by Philip II, father of Alexandra the Great and the theater where he was assassinated. We will enjoy a visit to the royal necropolis and Philip’s tomb below the great tumulus.

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Durrës

Elbasan

Apollonia

Albania

Macedonia Bitola Kurbinovo Lake Prespa Aigai

Edessa Thessaloniki

Greece

www.andantetravels.com/vie

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Day Five | Ohrid - Bitola

Today we make our way to the Museum on the Water, which is an expertly reconstructed Neolithic and Bronze Age lake settlement on ‘the Bay of Bones’. We continue to Lake Prespa and St. Naum before travelling to Kurbinovo and the Church of St. George.

Hotel: Hotel Epinal Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Bitola - Edessa

We begin our day with a short drive to Heraklea Lyncestis, a city built by Philip II of Macedon, where remains of Roman and Byzantine buildings can be found. We return to explore Bitola and its fine Museum, which has a fine collection of mosaics. We then explore the city center, including the Jeni Mosque.

Hotel: Hotel Aigai Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Edessa - Thessaloniki

Our day commences at the ancient site and thundering waterfalls of Edessa. Follow the road over the Ottoman bridge that carried the Via Egnatia across the river. Later, we head to the UNESCO Site of ancient Aigai. Here we will discover the great burial mound which covered the tombs of Macedonian royalty.

Hotel: Elektra Palace Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Thessaloniki

Heraclea Lyncestis near Bitola, Macedonia

itinerary Day One | Durrës

Upon arrival Albania we transfer to our hotel.

Hotel: Hotel Premium Beach Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Durrës

Our journey begins in Durrës, the principal terminus of the Via Egnatia. The city is Albania’s largest sea-port and is home to a substantial number of monuments. Here we visit the circular Forum of Anastasius. Later, we make our way to Apollonia, the significant Corinthian Greek colony, which played a vital role during the Roman conquest of the Balkans.

Hotel: Hotel Premium Beach Meals: All meals included

Our final full day will be spent exploring Thessaloniki, the original eastern terminus of the Via Egnatia. We visit the Agora and the church of St. Demetrius. We will also explore the palace complex of Galerius, as well as the Rotonda. Our day comes to an end at the Archaeological Museum and the adjacent Byzantine Museum.

Hotel: Elektra Palace Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Depart Thessaloniki

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Durrës - Ohrid

This morning we journey to Tirana, the capital of Albania.

Upon arrival, we head to the National Historical Museum and explore the country’s largest collection of antiquities. Then, we continue to the historic city of Elbasan, formerly the Roman settlement of Scampis. We walk through the Castrum with its fine late Roman and Ottoman walls.

Hotel: Millennium Palace Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Ohrid

We devote a full day to the wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ohrid. The ancient city boasts a Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman past, with impressive monuments from each era. We explore the late Byzantine shrine of St. Clement, the churches of St. Panteleimon and St. Sofia, as well as the 9th century fortress of Tsar Samuel. We also stroll past St. Jovan Kaneo, romantically positioned overlooking the lake.

Hotel: Millennium Palace Meals: All meals included

The Bouleuterion at Apollonia, Albania

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dalmatia & dubrovnik 8th - 16th May 2019 | 9 Days from $3,895 (single supplement $715) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

View of the mountains from the city of Trogir

E

xplore the spectacular archaeology of Croatia, from Zagreb to Zadar, and Split to Dubrovnik. Against the backdrop of the breathtakingly beautiful Adriatic and its islands, we visit villas, temples, churches and palaces. Originally part of the Illyrian kingdom, the region succumbed to Roman rule around 32BC and acquired the characteristic trappings of a Roman province: military camps, towns and roads. The province furnished Rome with emperors, including Diocletian, who famously returned in retirement and built a magnificent palace in Split. Join us as we travel with Roman specialist, Dr. Ffiona Gilmore Eaves, on this tour through 2,000 years of rich and fascinating Croatian history.

highlights

guide lecturers Dr. Ffiona Gilmore Eaves read archaeology at Cambridge before undertaking her PhD at Nottingham University. She wrote her thesis on the Eurasian basilica in Porec and is the co-author of “Retrieving the Record: A Century of Archaeology at Porec”, which was published by the University of Zagreb. She has recently contributed a chapter on ‘Daily Life in the Ancient Cities’ to “Turkish Coast through Writers’ Eyes”

by Rupert Scott, in the series by Eland Publishing.

Visit the medieval city of Trogir, a UNESCO Site Exclusive access to Zagreb Archaeological Museum Spend two days in Dubrovnik and explore its history Wander around the extraordinary Diocletian’s Palace Explore the little visited site of Salona

Aquae Iasae Zagreb

Andautonia

Croatia

diocletian’s palace

Located in Split, Emperor Diocletian built his palace after retiring in the early 4th century, and much of it still stands today. It is a delightful fusion of ancient and modern, with the ancient Imperial Palace intertwined with medieval accretions. It is so monumental in size that it comprises much of the historic center of Split. The palace was transformed in the early medieval period by people seeking refuge from invading Croats building homes within its walls.

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Zadar Šibenik Trogir

Burnum Salona Split

Dubrovnik

www.andantetravels.com/cro

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Day Five | Split

Today is spent exploring the palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split. After ruling for 20 years, and saving the Roman world from disintegration at the end of the 3rd century, the emperor retired. This extraordinary residence was built in the form of a huge fortified camp, with a temple, porticoes and guardrooms.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Split

We spend time today in Salona, the ruins of a remarkable Roman city and the former capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. We will explore the remains of a number of basilica style churches, as well as a bathhouse and amphitheater.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Split - Dubrovnik

We say goodbye to Split and journey down the coast, to visit the Augusteum in Narona which has an interesting collection of imperial statues. Late this afternoon, we arrive in Dubrovnik, an historic medieval walled town, which is now one of the most famous in Europe. We finish our day’s exploration at the Croatian War of Independence Museum.

Hotel: Overnight in Dubrovnik Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Dubrovnik Roman amphitheater, Salona

itinerary Day One | Zagreb

Arrive in Zagreb and enjoy a leisurely walk around the Old Town this afternoon.

Hotel: Hotel Academia Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Zagreb

Our day starts with a visit to Aquae Iasae, which centerd around a thermal spring, of which Romans took full advantage - building a bathhouse and a shrine which have recently been extensively excavated. We also explore Zagreb Archaeological Museum with a local archaeologist who has worked on the site.

Hotel: Hotel Academia Meals: All meals included

Our last day is spent exploring Dubrovnik. We will walk the city walls, which were built towards the end of the 8th century and were strong enough to defend against a 15-month invasion in the 9th century. We continue to the old city harbour and Lazaretto, built to quarantine sailors in an attempts to protect the city from imported disease.

Hotel: Overnight in Dubrovnik Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Depart Dubrovnik

There will be time for final exploration this morning before we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Zagreb - Zadar

We spend the day in Zadar, an ancient Adriatic city which became a major trading center under Roman rule. We explore the Kalelarga and visit several stunning churches, including St. Simeon and St. Donatus. After lunch, we visit the Archaeological Museum of Zadar which houses finds from prehistory onwards, including a collection of Roman material.

Hotel: Hotel Delfin Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Zadar - Split

We enjoy a scenic drive along the Adriatic coastline to Ĺ ibenik, which was founded by the Croats in the 9th century AD. Later, we visit the medieval city of Trogir, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its blend of Romanesque and Renaissance buildings. After, we travel to Split.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: All meals included The old city of Dubrovnik

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ravenna & aquileia 21st - 28th October 2019 | 8 Days from $3,595 (single supplement $415) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Inside Pomposa Abbey

I

n AD 402 the Roman Imperial court fled from Rome to Ravenna, and for a period this was the political center of what remained of the Western Empire. The result was an astonishing flowering of art and architecture created in the dying days of the Empire. To this day, the city’s numerous churches and palaces remain resplendent with shimmering mosaics.

We begin in Aquileia, a great city of the Roman Empire, which played host to emperors and archbishops. We continue to Ravenna, one of the must-see archaeological cities, where we marvel at the artistry and explore the stories behind the glittering tiles.

highlights Admire the fourth century mosaic floor of the Basilica at Aquileia

guide lecturers Prof. Tony King is a lecturer in archaeology at the University of Winchester and a specialist in Roman archaeology.

He has excavated extensively in Britain and abroad, including at Hayling Island, Meonstoke Roman Villa, Pompeii, Leptis Magna and Volubilis, and his interests spread across Roman Britain, Gaul and Italy. Tony is also an expert in the analysis of animal bones, and in this capacity, has analyzed remains from a wide variety of sites across the Roman Empire, including assemblages from Pompeii.

Visit a host of Paleochristian churches in Ravenna, replete with mosaics Explore the medieval monastery at Pomposa, with its intact frescoes View the extraordinary Tempietto Longobardo

Cividate

Italy Aquileia

Spend time in the seaside town of Grado

Concordia Sagittaria

Grado

Venice

basilica of san vitale

We have arranged a special evening visit to the Basilica of San Vitale, a Byzantine church founded in 548 and famed for its mosaics.

The influence of Oriental art, a typical feature of the buildings in Ravenna, is apparent in the architecture of the basilica, where elements of eastern art merge with the western tradition. The mosaic decorations here are stunning, and they express the ideology and religious beliefs of the Justinian era.

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Pomposa

Bologna Ravenna

www.andantetravels.com/rav

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Day Four | Grado - Ravenna

This morning we travel to Ravenna. En-route we stop at Concordia Sagittaria, founded as a Roman colony in 42BC to the site of an important early Christian basilica, which was discovered and laid out below the floor of the present cathedral. Here we view the 12th century mosaic floor and frescoes, the monastery that Guido D’Arezzo invented modern musical notation. Our final visit is to the Abbey of Pomposa.

Hotel: Palazzo Bezzi or Hotel Bisanzio Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Ravenna

Today we start our exploration of Ravenna with a series of superb monuments, including the Arian Baptistery, the Neonian Baptistery, Ravenna Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace and the late antique Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra. We end the day at the National Museum, which you can explore at your own pace.

Hotel: Palazzo Bezzi or Hotel Bisanzio Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Ravenna

The Basilica of Aquileia

itinerary Day One | Grado

Upon arrival, we transfer to our hotel in Grado. We have time to relax before enjoying our first group dinner at a local restaurant.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Astoria Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Grado

We travel to Aquileia. Founded by the Romans in 180BC on marshy ground between the mountains and the lagoons, the city lay on an important route between eastern and western Empires, and thrived in the late Roman period. We explore the Cathedral, with its magnificent mosaic floor. We also walk along the riverine port to the 6th century Church of Monastero and museum before ending the day at Aquileia’s National Archaeological Museum.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Astoria Meals: All meals included

Still in Ravenna, we visit San Vitale, the extraordinary basilica famed for its mosaics of Justinian and Theodora. We also spend time at the wonderful so called Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.

We will also explore Theoderic’s Palace, the Church of Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo, Theodoric’s Palatine chapel, and San Giovanni Evangelista.

Hotel: Palazzo Bezzi or Hotel Bisanzio Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Ravenna

We have free time this morning to spend at leisure. Later, we view the Church of San Francesco and Dante’s Tomb before leaving Ravenna to visit Classe, where we see the Church of San’t Apollinare with its glorious mosaics. On the way back to Ravenna, we visit the Mausoleum of King Theoderic.

Hotel: Palazzo Bezzi or Hotel Bisanzio Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Bologna

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Grado

We head into the foothills of the Alps to Cividale, which was an important Lombard city. Here we visit the Tempietto Longobardo, a Palatine Chapel which is an extraordinary blend of Classical and Lombard art. We continue to the Diocesan Museum to see the Lombard Altar of Ratchis and then after lunch, we explore the Cividale Archaeological Museum, which displays splendid finds such as armor, jewelry and glass from Lombard graves. Later we return to Grado and visit the 6th century cathedral and the churches of S. Eufemia and S. Maria delle Grazie.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Astoria Meals: All meals included The Empress Theordora, wife of emperor Justinian

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the etruscans Guaranteed: 7th - 14th April 2019 | 16th - 23rd September 2019 | 8 Days from $3,525 (single supplement $745) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Etruscan necropoleis of Cerveteri

B

efore the rise of Rome, the Etruscans dominated much of Italy. At the height of their power and prosperity during the 6th century BC, Etruscan influence, and ambition rivalled that of the ancient Greeks and Phoenicians. In their homeland in the Tuscan hills, they built cities with vast cemeteries and monumental tombs, from which an abundance of finely crafted objects have been restored.

Our expert guide introduces hilltop cities, spectacular finds and lavish painted tombs. This is a fascinating and alternative view of Classical Italy, visited from your base in the heart of Tuscany.

highlights See the remarkable Banditaccia cemetery at Cerveteri Explore the unique painted tombs of Tarquinia

guide lecturers Dr. Eireann Marshall was raised in a 15th century villa in Vicenza, so was born to history! She is an honorary research fellow and associate lecturer for the OU, specializing in gender and identity in material culture.

Oliver Gilkes is a leading expert on Albanian archaeology and is the author of “Albania: an archaeological guide”.

He previous worked at the World Heritage Site of Butrint as well as Gjirokastra.

Explore the charming medieval city of Orvieto Visit the ancient remains of the Portonaccio Temple Admire the collection of Etruscan aftifacts in the amazing Villa Giulia Museum in Rome

Pisa

Florence Volterra Colle di Val D'Elsa Chiusi

Italy

special access

On the fourth day of our tour, we have secured access to the Etruscan painted tombs in Chiusi. The interiors of both are vividly decorated with scenes depicting animals and humans alike. Etruscan influence on ancient Roman culture was profound, including the Tomb of the Lion and the Tomb of the Pilgrim, which still contains its sarcophagi, the interiors are both vividly decorated with images depicting both animals and humans.

Orvieto

Tarquinia Cerveteri

Civita Veii

Rome

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www.andantetravels.com/etr

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Day Five | Civita Castellana

We visit Veii this morning, at the southern limit of Etruscan territory, and Rome’s first Etruscan conquest. We explore the remains of the Portonaccio Temple, dedicated to Apollo. This afternoon, we visit the Villa Giulia Museum in Rome, home to the world’s best collections of Etruscan art.

Hotel: Hotel Relais Falisco Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Civita Castellana

We visit Tarquinia to see both the Archaeological Museum and exquisitely painted subterranean chamber tombs. The museum has a fine collection of grave goods, including the remarkable terracotta winged horses from the Ara della Regina Temple. Over 6000 tombs have been discovered at the Monterozzi cemetery, which we visit next, making this one of the largest burial grounds of the ancient world.

Hotel: Hotel Relais Falisco Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Civita Castellana

Cathedral in Orvieto

itinerary Day One | Pisa

Arrive in Pisa and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Palazzo Pacini Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Val D’Elsa

We spend our first day in Volterra located on windswept, dramatic hills. Here we visit the Guarnacci Museum, famed for its cinerary urns carved from the alabaster. After lunch, we walk through the town viewing Etruscan temple foundations, the ancient city gate, the Porta all’Arco and a well-preserved Roman theater.

Hotel: Palazzo Pacini Meals: All meals included

Today we explore Orvieto, which the Etruscans established because of the excellent defensive opportunities offered by the volcanic citadel. In the morning, we will visit the Belvedere Temple Podium and the small Etruscan cemetery of Crocifisso del Tufo. In the afternoon, you will have free time to explore two archaeological museums, ‘underground Orvieto’ and the world famous Renaissance cathedral.

Hotel: Hotel Relais Falisco Meals: Breakfast and dinner

Day Eight | Depart Rome

Our tour culminates at the remarkable Banditaccia cemetery at Cerveteri, a truly extraordinary Etruscan site. This is a real ‘city of the dead’ with rock-cut tombs under tumuli and arranged in rows along streets. Many interiors are carved to imitate houses and temples. One tomb even has painted relief depictions of armour, household goods, furniture, and the family dog. After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch included

Day Three | Val D’Elsa

This morning we drive to Florence, where we will visit the Archaeological Museum before lunch. The afternoon is free to explore or you can join our tour staff who will be exploring the Roman theater.

Hotel: Palazzo Pacini Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Val D’Elsa - Civita Castellana

We spend the day at Chiusi, the key inland city of northern Etruria. The collections in the excellent museum include finely carved cinerary chests and tomb markers in local sandstone. This afternoon we have private access to some of the characteristic Etruscan painted tombs, including the Tomb of the Lion and the Tomb of the Pilgrim.

Hotel: Hotel Relais Falisco Meals: All meals included Painted tomb in Tarquinia

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bologna

Food & Archaeology

11th - 17th May 2019 | 7 Days from $3,895 (single supplement $525) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

The medieval city of Bologna

T

he Etruscans reached as far north as the region known today as Emilia Romagna. They ruled Bologna from the 7th century BC and were regarded by the Romans as obsessed with drinking and feasting.

Discover the home of tagliatelle, mortadella, ragù and more. This unique tour will satisfy the most voracious of appetites for food and history alike!

Join us as we fuse this gastronomic adventure with visits to amazing archaeological sites, places of significant historical interest and fascinating museums, making it a delight for all the senses. From culture and stories through to cuisine, this tour has it all.

highlights Visit the Bronze Age site of Monte Bibele Travel to Ferrara and taste panpepato

guide lecturers Tony O’Connor specializes in the Roman Empire, who has excavated widely across Britain, Europe and North Africa.

He is particularly passionate about Roman North Africa, having excavated in Libya for many years. Tony is also deeply interested in the study of Roman coinage.

Rosetta Ferrari was born in London to an Italian family. She has lived in Italy for many years and speaks Italian. She has a great interest in food and culture and is a member of the exclusive Italian Society of Cheese Tasters! Rosetta has also managed over fifty tours for Andante Travels.

Make your own pasta in the company of an expert Admire the frescoed ceilings of the Este Castle in Ferrara Take a stroll around medieval Bologna Collecchio Montecchio

special access

During our all-encompassing gastronomic and historic tour of beautiful Bologna, we will be treated to a private rendezvous with a local tartufaio, Umberto, who will introduce us to the well-kept secrets of truffle hunting. He joins us with his dog, Gigi, and leads us up winding roads high up in the hills to show us how these are found.

Truffles do not grow everywhere and will only do so if the conditions are just right, which is what makes them so precious.

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Modena Castelnuovo

Ferrara

Bologna Marzabotto Monte Bibele

Italy

www.andantetravels.com/bff

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Day Five | Bologna

Today starts with a walk in the hills with a local expert who will describe a typical truffle hunt. With any luck we will find an elusive truffle to have with lunch. We head to the Etruscan ruins of Marzabotto where we will visit the site museum, mural cemetery, capitol and urban area with shops and temples.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Bologna

Drive to Ferrara where we visit the Este Castle, a moated medieval structure in the center of the city, and the cathedral as well as the Archaeological Museum where we explore the Gold Room, the Pirogues Room, and more.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Depart Bologna

We leave Bologna and travel to Modena. Here we visit the Archaeological Museum and the Duomo. After lunch, we make our way to the Carpigiani Gelato University and learn about the history of ice cream. We enjoy a freshly made gelato before our transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

Asinelli & Garisenda towers, symbols of medieval Bologna

itinerary Day One | London - Bologna

Arrive in Bologna in time for lunch at our hotel. We then take a short walk to the Archaeological Museum, before returning to our hotel prior to dinner.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: Lunch & dinner included

Day Two | Bologna

Our first visit is to Monte Bibele, where an extensive collection of aftifacts from the Copper, Bronze and Iron Ages have been unearthed since the end of World War II. We continue to the Luigi Fantini Archaeological Museum at Monterenzio, housing a wide array of local finds. We proceed to Podere San Giuliano, where we participate in a cookery course.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included

this tour also departs over new year If you are booked on our December departure, we enjoy the ‘burning of the old year’, with sausage and lentils at midnight on New Year’s Eve. Please note that our New Year itinerary does vary, see page 161 or check our website for full details!

Day Three | Bologna

A short walk through the old market streets with an opportunity to learn about some of the local produce. We then continue to the church complex at Santo Stefano. After lunch in a traditional salumeria, we visit the Basilica of San Petronio and the archaeological excavations nearby.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Bologna

An early start sees us at a tasting of the region’s most famous cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano, produced at an artisan factory.

Afterwards we visit the family-run production of traditional balsamic vinegar and here we will sample the vinegar at its various stages of ageing. We return to Bologna and have the afternoon at leisure.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included

Panpepato, Italian cake

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rome

& the Sistine Chapel

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

Guaranteed: 11th - 16th May | 14th - 19th September | 22nd - 27th December | 6 Days from $3,595 (single supplement $540) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

The iconic Colosseum of Rome

R

ome is an exhilarating destination where the glories of its ancient past, the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon exist beside museums, churches and medieval piazzas: evidence of Rome’s continued power when its empire was no more. This is the perfect introduction to the ‘Eternal City’ led by expert archaeologists who bring to life triumphs, tragedies and political intrigue that characterized the Roman empire.

We have secured private access to the Colosseum and there will also be an evening visit to the Sistine Chapel. Follow in the footsteps of slaves and Caesars, in this unique exploration of Roman history.

highlights Go underground for a tour at the Colosseum

guide lecturers Oliver Gilkes is an expert on Italian and Albanian archaeology and is the author of “Albania: an archaeological guide.” He has worked for over 10 years as a field archaeologist in Italy at both Classical and medieval sites, before moving across the Adriatic to Albania, where he worked at the World Heritage Site of Butrint and evocative medieval city of Gjirokastra. Oliver is still involved in a number of projects in Albania and is one of a handful of experts on the archaeology of Albania in the United Kingdom. He currently works for Andante Travels, designing new tours worldwide.

The Galleria Borghese and its collection of antiquities The Ara Pacis with its stupendous reliefs Explore the vast collections of the Vatican Museum Visit Ostia Antica which is as intact as Pompeii

special access

There are few visits more spine tingling than a private visit to the Vatican Museums, its halls and galleries are filled with iconic ancient sculptures. For a few hours this evening, we have the vast museums to ourselves, when we can marvel at the Renaissance masterpieces of the Raphael Rooms and the Sistine Chapel all on our own. It is truly a visit of a lifetime.

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Italy Rome

www.andantetravels.com/rom

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Day Four | Rome

We visit the Borghese Gallery, a 17th-century villa, which houses a spectacular art collection, which includes ancient, as well as, Renaissance masterpieces, belonging to one of Rome’s most illustrious families. We continue to the Montemartini Museum, once a power station and now part of the Capitoline museums. We end the day with a visit to the Non Catholic cemetery of Rome, which is the final resting place of Shelley and Keats, next to the iconic Pyramid of Gaius Cestius.

Hotel: Albergo Santa Chiara Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Rome

This morning we visit the Pantheon, the inspirational building built by Emperor Hadrian as a shrine to the Roman gods. We continue on to Piazza Navona, former stadium of Emperor Domitian. Our guided walk ends at the Ara Pacis. This afternoon we spend at leisure.

Hotel: Albergo Santa Chiara Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Depart Rome

We travel to Ostia Antica, the original port of ancient Rome.

Parts of this sprawling site are as well preserved as Pompeii.

We view the forum, baths, temples, private houses and tenements, as well as the warehouses and wharves used for storing supplies for the imperial capital. After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included Sistine Chapel Ceiling

itinerary Day One | Rome

Arrive in Rome and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Albergo Santa Chiara Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Rome

Our adventure begins at the Colosseum, the iconic Flavian Amphitheater – the largest of its type ever constructed. Here we enjoy a specially-arranged visit to the underground service tunnels, offering access to the atmospheric corridors in which so many lives were lived and broken. Following lunch we take an afternoon walk through the heart of ancient Rome, stopping at the Forum, site of profound historical events such as the Gracchi riots, Caesar’s funeral, and the triumph of Alaric the Goth. We end the day with a walk along the later Imperial Fora, an elaborate series of ruined public squares, finishing at Trajan’s Column.

Hotel: Albergo Santa Chiara Meals: All meals included

this tour also departs over christmas Please note that our December itinerary does vary, please check our website for the full details.

Day Three | Rome

This morning we enjoy a guided visit around the vast collections of the Vatican Museum, amassed by popes across the centuries. In the afternoon we enjoy some free time to explore Saint Peter’s Basilica, a jewel of the Renaissance, and for centuries the largest church in the world. This evening, we have Special Access to the Vatican Museums, including the extraordinary Sistine Chapel, allowing us to marvel at Michelangelo’s masterpiece, completely uninterrupted. We also enjoy a private viewing of the ornate Raphael Rooms.

Hotel: Albergo Santa Chiara Meals: All meals included Ara Pacis Reliefs

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latium

The Roman Rich

Guaranteed: 19th - 26th May 2019 | 6th - 13th October 2019 | 8 Days from $3,595 (single supplement $455) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Alba Fucens

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guide lecturers

It is often the smaller, lesser-known places which enchant guests; the acres of landscaped botanical gardens at Ninfa, or the dining room of the reclusive emperor Tiberius in a cave at Sperlonga, and Alba Fucens, a hidden gem in the Apennine mountains.

Prof. Tony King is a lecturer in archaeology at the University of Winchester and specializes in Roman archaeology.

He has excavated at Pompeii, Volubilis and Hayling Island, and he is also an expert in the analysis of animals bones from sites across the Roman Empire.

he picturesque hills and plains were an ideal retreat for the great and good of Imperial Rome, who came to escape the oppressive summer heat of the Eternal City. Emperor Hadrian himself built a villa complex here in the beautiful setting of Tivoli - his opulent and extravagant creation is the culmination of Roman extravagance.

highlights See extravagant villas built by Hadrian and Tiberius Private visit to the lesser known Roman town of Tusculum

Diana Blumberg is an archaeological scientist specializing in the analysis of archaeological materials. She has worked in Pompeii and Portus, and also has excavation experience in the UK. Diana has also previously led walking tours in Rome, where she lived for two years.

Visit Tiberius’ seaside villa at Sperlonga See Ninfa and its wonderful garden Walk through ancient Rome’s main port of Ostia Antica Italy

tusculum

We have arranged private access at Tusculum to see the lesserknown Roman town and its well-preserved remains. Tusculum was Cicero’s local haunt and his suburban villa could be found nearby. The town was divided into two parts and the city stands on a hill near the crater rim of the Alban volcano. Here the main street leads through the forum area to the theater, where the rest of it branches off on either side and then continues to the acropolis.

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Ostia Antica

Alba Fucens Rome Frascati Tusculum Ninfa Terracina

Norba Cassino Gaeta Sperlonga

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coach) to explore the renowned monastery. This afternoon, we continue to Alatri, a city of the Hernici tribe. Here we have a tour of the tetrahedral and polygonal wall. We finish the day with a drive to our next hotel, located in Frascati, an attractive hilltown near Rome.

Hotel: Hotel Flora Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Frascati

We visit Hadrian’s Villa, built by Hadrian on the site of republican houses. The palace is a pastiche of different parts of the empire. This afternoon, we have free time in which you can visit the town of Tivoli or pay a visit to the grandiose 16th century Villa D’Este, built by Cardinal Ippolito D’Este, the son of Lucrezia Borgia.

Hotel: Hotel Flora Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Frascati

Today we travel to Tusculum, one of the largest Roman cities in the Alban Hills. We have arranged private access to explore the lesser-known Roman town and its well preserved theater.

We continue to Palestrina, where we will visit the famous Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia and afterwards explore the Colonna-Barberini Palace which now hosts the Archaeological museum.

Hotel: Hotel Flora Meals: All meals included The Canops in Hadrian’s Villa, Tivoli

itinerary Day One | Rome

Arrive in Rome and transfer to the hotel in Gaeta. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Villa Irlanda Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Gaeta

We begin in Terracina, a significant Roman town on the Via Appia. Here we find the ancient remains of the hilltop sanctuary of Jupiter Anxur, visit the Roman ruins and Archaeological Museum. This afternoon, a short drive takes us to Sperlonga. Emperor Tiberius’s seashore villa is found here, with its remarkable outdoor dining room at the mouth of a cave with gigantic sculptures of mythological events.

Hotel: Villa Irlanda Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Frascati

We head for the hills today, to visit Alba Fucens, strategically positioned on the main route to the Adriatic. The large site includes remains of an amphitheater, theater and a bath complex. This spectacularly situated city hosts more than sufficient riches to warrant a full day of exploration.

Hotel: Hotel Flora Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Rome

We finish our tour with a visit to Ostia Antica, the harbour city at the mouth of the Tiber which provides us with a unique insight into Roman trading practices and urban dwellings.

After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Gaeta

We begin with a visit to the famous gardens at Ninfa, which overlie a former medieval town. The ruins were landscaped into botanical gardens in the 1920s and are now recognized as some of Europe’s finest. In the afternoon we follow the road which climbs from the Pontine plain to the Latin town and Roman colony at Norba. From here, we can appreciate some magnificent views over the Pontine Marshes. During the 20th century, archaeological work on the marsh has been extensive, including many surveys and excavations.

Hotel: Villa Irlanda Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Gaeta - Frascati

This morning we drive to Cassino, where we explore the c Classical Roman site, with remains of the theater, amphitheater and a range of tombs. We then visit the National Archaeological Museum, before ascending Monte Cassino (by

Ninfa and its gardens

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romans in the alps 20th - 27th May 2019 | 8 Days from $3,595 (single supplement $690) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Remains of Roman Villa at Sirmione

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iscover traces of ancient Roman life among truly breathtaking Italian landscapes. From incredible subterranean remains to clifftop ruins of once-magnificent villas, this tour will take in a range of enchanting sites in the country’s beautiful north.

Explore the history of Verona, from its stunning amphitheater to its religious architecture, as well as the charming city of Brescia. We will visit several amazing archaeological parks, each home to fascinating remains, and our expert guide’s boundless knowledge will enlighten us on the tales behind the sites on this eight-day adventure.

highlights See ruins of a majestic Roman villa on the shores of Lake Garda

guide lecturers Craig Alexander studied economics at Cambridge and MIT. He worked in strategy consulting at both McKinsey & Company and Accenture. He then decided to follow his childhood passion for archaeology and returned to Cambridge for a MPhil (thesis on the Neolithisation of Italy) and a PhD (thesis on spatial and demographic analyzes of Iron Age Valcamonica and its rock-art sites, villages and cult sites). Craig then took part in a 3 year EU funded project to develop a new 3D scanner for rock art, which was tested and refined at sites in Valcamonica. Craig has active research programs in Valcamonica and Puglia.

Join archaeologist Simon Thompson & tour Verona’s hidden sites Visit the underground remains of Tridentum, founded by Romans Tour the world-renowned Verona amphitheater in all its glory Enjoy delicious regional cuisine along the way as we explore Italy

Trento Cividate

special access

During our time in beautiful Verona, we will have a series of special visits to sites buried beneath the city’s streets. These hidden elements of the ancient world have since been excavated and can now be seen in cellars, basements and in digs that have taken place underground. On this tour, we will see parts of the Roman Capitolium, which is now only visible in fragmented parts, as well as a series of shops and houses in various locations.

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Rocca di Manerba Brescia

Verona Desenzano Sirmione

Italy

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Day Five | Brescia - Verona

Today we explore a series of villas. First, we drive to Villa Toscolana Maderno and enjoy some time here, and then we move on to the Roman villas at Desenzano before having lunch on the lake side. In the afternoon, we drive to Sirmione to visit the remains of the Villa of Catullus as well as the archaeological museum. In Sirmione, we also visit the Church of San Pietro in Mavino, the most ancient of the ages. Later, we drive to Verona.

Hotel: Hotel San Luca Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Verona

This morning, we head to the impressive Verona amphitheater, which was built in the first century and is still in use today for opera performances. Following lunch in Verona, we continue on with our day of touring and enjoy hidden sites with archaeologist Simon Thompson. These include the Capitolium remains beneath a restaurant, a site under the guild hall and a storage area under a clothes shop. Dinner tonight will be at a restaurant in Verona.

Hotel: Hotel San Luca Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Verona

Desenzano, Lake Garda

itinerary Day One | Brescia

Upon arrival in Italy, we transfer to our hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Hotel Master Meals: Dinner included

We go underground this morning to SASS - the Tridentium la CittĂ Sotterranea. After touring this evocative site, we visit the Duomo and the Paleochristian cathedral below. Next we have lunch at a local restaurant before rounding off our day at the striking Castello del Buonconsiglio and its museum.

Hotel: Hotel San Luca Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Verona

There will be some free time in the morning before we return to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Two | Brescia

Our day begins at the Brescia Santa Giulia Museum and after stopping for lunch, we continue to the heart of the ancient city to explore the capitolium, forum and theater. Later, we take a stroll to the Duomo and visit the impressive Romanesque basilica and Paleochristian remains below. Dinner this evening will be in the center of Brescia and then we return to our hotel.

Hotel: Hotel Master Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Brescia

We start the morning with a walk to see the Roman remains below Palazzo Martinengo. After lunch, we make our way to the castle and tour the Roman gateway, temple steps and medieval fortress.

Hotel: Hotel Master Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Brescia

We explore the Roman Sanctuary of Minerva in Cividate, along with the Cividate archaeological park. After lunch, we drive to Rocca di Manerba to see its impressive archaeological park. Here, we visit a Neolithic site with a small Roman temple as well as a medieval castle, which boasts magnificent views over Lake Garda. There is also time to visit the museum.

Hotel: Hotel Master Meals: All meals included Archaeological park of Rocca di Manerba

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italian & adriatic highlights 5th - 20th September 2019 | 16 Days from $4,895 What’s Included 4 countries | 3 hotel nights | 12 shore excursions | 6 ‘Only with Andante’ extras

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oin us on a unique tour which offers you some of the most famous highlights of Italy and Croatia. The journey starts with a unique tour of Rome, which combines the unmissable Colosseum and Circus Maximus, with as well as sites which are by appointment only, such as Mithraeum underneath the Circus Maximus and the famous Domus Aurea. We visit Ostia Antica, as well as Pompeii, cities seemingly lost in time, see the photogenic cities of Lecce and Taormina, and marvel at the ruins of Diocletian’s Palace in Split. This tour ends with a concise and yet spectacular tour of Venice, including a private visit to the Doge’s Palace and culminating in an exceptional special access, evening visit to the Basilica of San Marco.

‘ONLY WITH ANDANTE’ EXTRAS A private visit to the Mithraeum beneath the Circus Maximus An extended tour of the Colosseum, including subterranean areas and Belvedere

guide lecturers Dr. Eireann Marshall is an honorary research fellow for the OU and is currently working on a project of the reception of Roman culture in the frontiers of the Roman empire, at the University of Roehampton.

Dr. Simon Elliott is an award winning historian, archaeologist, author, Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Kent and an Ambassador for the Museum of London Archaeology. Simon is also a PR Week Award winning, highly experienced communications practitioner.

Colosseum, Rome

A private visit to the Doge’s Palace, including prisons and torture chamber, and a private evening visit to St Mark’s Basilica Excursions led by an Andante Guide leader, expert archaeologist & academics

special access

There are very few visits which are as thrilling as a private visit to the magnificent Basilica of San Marco. Originally built as a private chapel of the Doge, the Basilica was adorned by an array of Venetian merchants who, for centuries, were exhorted by law to return with statues and precious marbles to beautify their church. For two hours, we have this magnificent 12th century church to ourselves, wondering at the shimmering gold mosaics and the priceless Pala D’Oro. 68

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three spectacular Greek temples of Paestum (Salerno).

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Taormina

Cruising beyond Stromboli and through the Strait of Messina, we arrive in Sicily for an afternoon walking tour of Taormina or an appreciation of Sicilian landscapes.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | At sea

Lectures and activities at sea.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Corfu

Choose to visit the elegant Achilleion Palace or see the highlights of Corfu Town this morning. In the afternoon, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint on the Albanian coast, its ruins showcasing an engaging timeline of Hellenic, Roman and Venetian occupation.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Lecce

Aegean Odyssey

itinerary Day One | Rome

Fly to Rome. Join us for a walk around the Forum Boarium and Circus Maximus, with a private visit to the Mithraeum.

Hotel: Albergo Santa Chiara Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Rome

Explore ancient highlights including the Colosseum (with Belvedere and underground areas), the Imperial Forums, Trajan’s Column and the Temple of Hadrian.

Hotel: Albergo Santa Chiara Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Rome

After a visit to Nero’s palace (the Domus Aurea) and Ostia Antica, Ancient Rome’s harbour city, embark Aegean Odyssey Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Pompeii

There are few more impressive or poignant archaeological sites than Pompeii, destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 79AD. Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Herculaneum

Wander the streets of the wealthy seaside town of Herculaneum, which perished in the same eruption, displays a remarkable level of preservation.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Ravello

After a morning cruising past Capri and the Amalfi Coast, choose to marvel at the majestic views from Ravello or the

Yet another choice of shore excursions invites appreciation of the myriad architectural treasures of Lecce or the traditional white-washed houses (trulli) of Alberobello.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Dubrovnik

A morning city tour of the bewitching city of Dubrovnik includes the city walls, Cathedral and Rector’s Palace.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Twelve | Split

Visit the mighty Palace of Diocletian in Split this morning.

An optional tour to Salona and Trogir follows (extra cost).

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Thirteen | Urbino

From Ancona visit Urbino, birthplace of Raphael, with its magnificent Palazzo Ducale and Duomo.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen | Venice

Enjoy a morning walking tour of Venice before an optional opportunity to visit two enthralling islands (extra cost).

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Fifteen | Venice

Disembark Aegean Odyssey for a private visit to the Doge’s Palace including the prisons and torture chamber. Following an afternoon walking tour of Castello, we have also arranged a private evening visit to the splendid St Mark’s Basilica.

Hotel: Carlton on the Grand Canal, Venice Meals: All meals included

Day Sixteen | Depart Venice

After a walk to visit the grand churches of Santi Giovanni e Paolo and Santa Maria dei Miracoli, transfer to Venice Airport for your individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

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puglia & basilicata 28th September - 6th October 2019 | 9 Days from $3,745 (single supplement $415) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Sassi di Matera

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asilicata and Puglia offer rich histories, with outstanding monuments dating from the Neolithic period up to the modern age. Greeks planted wealthy colonies which were subsumed in the Roman empire and later incorporated into the Byzantine Catepanate of Italy. While the Greek influence in the region is unmistakable, the Norman conquest under William de Hauteville in the 11th century left an incredible mark on the area, producing some of the most splendid castles still extant in Italy. Along with the wealth of history left by the Magna Graecia, this area is a showcase for fascinating troglodytic dwellings, Byzantine churches and Norman Castles. It is the home of Horace and the land where Hannibal won his most famous victory.

highlights

guide lecturers Dr. Eireann Marshall is an honorary research fellow for the OU and is currently working on a project of the reception of Roman culture in the frontiers of the Roman Empire, at the University of Roehampton. She has published a number of articles on Ancient North Africa, and co-edited volumes on ‘Death and Disease in the Ancient City’ and ‘Women’s influence on Classical Civilization’. Eireann has led many tours for Andante, including several to Pompeii, Sicily, Tunisia and Libya. Eireann is also bilingual in both English and Italian.

Explore the fascinating trulli of Alberobello Visit Castle del Monte, the most spectacular castle in southern Italy Discover Matera, European Capital of Culture for 2019 Examine the magnificent National Museum of Taranto Immerse yourself in the wonderful Baroque city of Lecce

Canne della Battaglia Melfi

Venosa

Barletta Castel del Monte

Gioia del Colle

Italy

matera

One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with settlements dating as far back as the 10th millennium BC, Matera was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1993 and has been declared European Capital of Culture in 2019. The city is famed for its Sassi, literally ‘Stones, or ‘Rocks’ which originated as Paleolithic cave dwellings, and then developed over the centuries to include intricate water collection systems and Byzantine rock-cut churches.

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Matera Massafra

Metapontum

Egnatia Alberobello Taranto

Brindisi Lecce Otranto

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Byzantine churches. In the afternoon, we have some free time for independent wandering.

Hotel: Masseria Chiancone Torricella Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Matera

Today we drive to Massafra to explore this lesser known city with cave dwellings and wonderful Byzantine churches replete with frescoes. We continue to Taranto, to explore the outstanding National Archaeological Museum, one of the most important in Italy.

Hotel: Masseria Chiancone Torricella Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Matera - Bari

This morning we head to Metapontum, one of the most opulent cities in Manga Graecia. We visit the Temple of Hera before continuing on to Gioia del Colle to see the wonderful castle rebuilt by Frederick II. As well as the castle itself, we will also explore the National Archaeological Museum.

Hotel: Hotel Oriente Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Bari

Alberobello

itinerary Day One | Lecce

Arrive in Puglia and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Grand Hotel di Lecce Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Lecce

We begin our day in Lecce visiting some of the churches and the amphitheater of the Roman city of Lupiae. When Lecce became part of the Kingdom of Naples, it took on a new cultural identity, becoming the ‘Apulian Athens’. Between the 16th and 18th centuries, this fostered the development of the ‘Lecce Baroque’ style, characterized by exuberant carving. After lunch, we visit the beautiful seaside city of Otranto, which was violently besieged by Ottomans in 1480. Here we visit the Cathedral and the massive Aragonese Castle.

Hotel: Grand Hotel di Lecce Meals: All meals included

We start with a visit to Castel del Monte to see the spectacular 13th century hunting lodge of the Emperor Frederick II. We spend the afternoon at Cannae, scene of Hannibal’s greatest victory over the Romans, and then we enjoy a brief visit to Barletta’s colossal statue of a late Roman emperor, the largest surviving bronze statue from the ancient world.

Hotel: Hotel Oriente Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Bari

We travel to Venosa to visit the 12th century abbey of the Holy Trinity, which houses the tombs of Alberada. Next, we explore the Roman site of Venusia before continuing to Melfi to visit an impressive Norman Castle. We also explore the National Archaeological Museum, home to a priceless Bronze Age statuette and the Roman sarcophagus of Rapolla.

Hotel: Hotel Oriente Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Depart Bari

This morning we visit the beautiful Trani Cathedral. After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Lecce - Matera

Today we drive to the ancient site of Egnatia, a Messapian city which was also a strategic trading center in the Roman period. We move on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello, before having some free time to explore this city with its unique architecture at our own pace.

Hotel: Masseria Chiancone Torricella Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Matera

We spend all day in Matera, the European Capital of Culture for 2019. Carlo Levi, author of Christ Stopped at Eboli, gave a heartbreaking account of the desperate poverty he witnessed during his years of exile in Matera in the 1940s. We begin with an exploration of the extraordinary Sassi of Matera, a network of phenomenal rock-cut cave dwellings and frescoed

Castel del Monte

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dordogne

Cave Art

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Guaranteed: 23rd - 29th April 2019 | 1st - 7th July 2019 | 2nd - 8th September 2019 | 7 Days from $3,595 (single supplement $445) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Ancient rock art as seen in Lascaux IV

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amed for its caves, the Dordogne Valley has some of the earliest and finest examples of prehistoric cave art. That’s not all, on this trip to rural France, you’ll discover picturesque villages, sensational cuisine and a wealth of history.

Vividly brought to life in ochre and charcoal are wild animals and human figures up to 30,000 years old. Dr. Paul Bahn tells the story of the art, its discovery and what is known of the people who created it. We will see some of the world-famous rock art sites – taking you as close as it is possible to get to the lives of our most remote Ice Age ancestors.

highlights Enjoy tours led by experts in rock art and the archaeology of the last Ice Age – Dr Paul Bahn Visit a range of stunning prehistoric cave sites

guide lecturers Dr. Paul Bahn - April is the leading expert on prehistoric rock art world-wide, and is certainly one of our bestknown archaeologists. Paul led the team which discovered the first Ice Age cave art in Britain in 2003. He is not only a leading academic but a great exponent of popular and accessible archaeology, and he has been leading tours for Andante Travels since 1997, inspiring and enthusing our travelers in the famous caves of France and Spain, in open air rock shelters in Portugal, and in Chile and Easter Island.

Our Expert Guide for July & September is yet to be confirmed. Please check our website for latest updates.

See the UNESCO cave system at Grotte de Rouffignac Admire beautiful French landscapes on this tour

Poitiers

Angles sur-l’Anglin Lussac-les-Châteaux

France

lascaux iv

Discover images from the world famous painted cave at Lascaux at the new Interpretation Center, Lascaux IV. Since the original cave is closed to the public due to conservation reasons, a stunning replica of the entire cave has been produced here, where the paintings can be viewed in a remarkable authentic environment and cultural context.

Our expert guides will provide insights to the technics employed and the people creating these fascinating images of prehistoric fauna.

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Lascaux IV Rouffignac Laugerie-Haute Le Thot Bordeaux Airport Les Eyzies de Tayac

Cap Blanc

Cougnac Pech Merle

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aurochs, horses and deer. In the afternoon we drive to the park at Le Thot, where animals which would have been extant in the Ice Age are bred and kept. Our final visit today will be to Lascaux II. Hotel: Hotel Le Centenaire Meals: Breakfast & dinner

Day Five | Les Eyzies

We travel by electric train into the cave system of Rouffignac, more than five miles long. Known as the Cave of the Hundred Mammoths, about one-third of all mammoth depictions known are found in this cave. In this cave there is also evidence of not only human existence, but scratch marks from cave bears too.

We take a short drive to Font de Gaume, the only decorated cave in France with multicolored paintings which remains open to the public. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is home to over 200 representations of animals.

Hotel: Hotel Le Centenaire Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Les Eyzies

itinerary

Our first visit is to Cougnac, two caves are found here which contain the claw-marks of cave bears and fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations. We also see paintings of mammoths, ibex, human type figures and three megaloceros, many of which take advantage of the natural shapes of the cave wall. Continue to Pech Merle, with painted black outlines of aurochs, mammoth, spotted-horses, geometric shapes and handprints. This cave reveals a full repertoire of cave art techniques and material - it is truly thought-provoking and an unforgettable experience.

Hotel: Hotel Le Centenaire Meals: All meals included

Day One | Poitiers

Day Seven | Depart Les Eyzies

The site of Laugerie Haute, one of the area’s largest rock shelters

Upon arrival in Bordeaux, we journey to Angles-sur-Anglin to view the Roc-aux-Sorciers facsimile, the greatest sculpted frieze from the Ice Age, with several life-size ibex, and, very unusually, several human females, as well as bison, horses and big cats. Then we will transfer to our hotel in Poitiers.

Hotel: Best Western Hotel Meals: Dinner included

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Two | Poitiers - Les Eyzies

We start our day at the Museum of Prehistory La Sabline in Lussac and then make our way to Les Eyzies. En route, we stop at a rock shelter, with sculpted cave art from the Solutrean period. Our next visit is to La Chaire Ă Calvin, a second rock shelter with a sculpted frieze dating back around 15,000 years.

Hotel: Hotel Le Centenaire Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Les Eyzies

We drive to the fascinating site of Laugerie Haute, with remains of occupation dating from the Upper Paleolithic. Next, the small rock shelter known as Abri du Poisson. Returning to Les Eyzies we visit the excavations at Abri Pataud where archaeologists have been attempting to trace artistic progress through the millennia. We continue to the rock shelter at Cap Blanc, a rare example of Ice Age sculpted bas-reliefs and the best still in situ which are open to the public.

Hotel: Hotel Le Centenaire Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Les Eyzies

This morning will be dedicated to the newly established Lascaux IV center. Lascaux is the most famous and spectacular of all decorated caves, with hundreds of paintings and 1,500 engravings, best known for its awe inspiring depictions of

Museum of Prehistory La Sabline, Lussac

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provence

Food & Archaeology

13th - 20th June 2019 | 8 Days from $4,215 (single supplement $745) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

The old bridge of Avignon at sunset

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n indulgent and enchanting adventure awaits in this glorious region of France. From delicious local cuisine through to ancient remains that tell stories of the past, we are treated to a vast array of unique experiences that showcase this area’s true heart.

Learn traditional recipes at a cookery class, discover the practices (and sample the produce) of a working lavender distillery and stand before a majestic Roman amphitheater as its history is brought vividly back to life by our expert guides. A captivating fusion of archaeology, rich culture and gastronomy makes for a memorable holiday that will stay with you long after your return.

highlights Enjoy an indulgent dinner at an exceptional local wine château See how delicious Calissons are made during a special factory tour

guide lecturers Rosetta Ferrari was born in London to an Italian family. She has lived in Italy for many years and speaks Italian. She has a great interest in food and culture and is a member of the exclusive Italian Society of Cheese Tasters! Rosetta has also managed over fifty tours for Andante Travels.

Tony O’Connor specializes in the Roman Empire, who has excavated widely across Britain, Europe and North Africa.

He is particularly passionate about Roman North Africa, having excavated in Libya for many years. Tony is also deeply interested in the study of Roman coinage.

Admire incredible ancient remains, from amphitheaters to bridges Pay a privileged visit to a local lavender distillery & enjoy tastings Lose yourself in regional flavors during a fantastic cookery class France

special access

What better way to discover the heart of a destination than through its flavors? Local cuisine tells as much of a story as ancient remains, museums or even buildings of significance. On this tour, we will be treated to a very special cookery class within the picturesque city of Avignon. During this workshop, a chef leads us in a demonstration of how to make delicious regional dishes and then we get the opportunity to create them ourselves (and, of course, we can sample our efforts).

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Fromagerie d’Albion Vaison-la-Romanie

Avignon Nimes Pont Julien Aix-en-Provence Marseille

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lunch, we visit a lavender farm and distillery, with a chance to taste some of the products.

Hotel: Hotel Bristol Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Avignon

We head north to explore the troglodyte village of Barry, set in a forested hill overlooking the Rhône Valley. People lived here from Neolithic times right through to the early 20th century.

We return to Avignon for lunch, then the afternoon is free to explore at your leisure.

Hotel: Hotel Bristol Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Avignon

We take a long drive out into the hills to visit a farm where we will be introduced to some of the cheeses produced here. After lunch we will drive to the Pont Julien to view the Roman stone arch bridge built over the Cavalon River and from there a short drive to the Dolmen de L’Ubac, a Neolithic burial chamber discovered by chance in 1994. On our way back to Avignon, we will have another sweet treat with a visit to see how candied fruits are made.

Hotel: Hotel Bristol Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Avignon Roman temple, Maison Carrée

itinerary Day One | Marseille

Upon arrival in Marseille, we transfer to our hotel in Avignon.

This was once the centre of the Catholic world in the early 14th century, and what remains is a stunning legacy of papal architecture - most notable is the ‘Popes Palace’. This evening, we visit a winery in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. We have dinner here and sample some of the wines that are produced here.

Hotel: Hotel Bristol Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Avignon

This morning we visit the Oppidum Entremont site, once a major Celtic-Ligurian settlement abandoned during the Roman period in favour of a new city, now Aix-en-Provence. After lunch we will see how Calissons are made. These sweet treats include ingredients such as almonds and candied melon and, of course, we will have an opportunity to taste them and pick our favorites. We then go into Aix-en-Provence for a visit to the Granet Museum where finds from the Oppidum Entremont site are displayed.

Hotel: Hotel Bristol Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Avignon

Free time to explore Avignon this morning. After lunch, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

The day starts with an exploration of the center of Avignon including a walk through the Place de l’Horloge, once the Roman forum leading us to the majestic Palais des Papes, the Papal residence of the 14th century. In the afternoon we take a cookery class, where we will learn how to prepare some local dishes, and then later enjoy them for dinner.

Hotel: Hotel Bristol Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Avignon

Nîmes has some of the best Roman remains in Provence and today we will drive to the city to see the Amphitheater and the Maison Carrée, a well-preserved Roman temple. We will visit the new recently opened Musée de la Romanité in Nimes before lunch. In the afternoon, we take a relaxing drive through the rice fields of the Camargue to the Salt Pans at Aigue Mortes.

Hotel: Hotel Bristol Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Avignon

Today we drive to Vaison-la-Romaine, the largest area of Gallo-Roman ruins excavated in France. Here we visit the Roman sites including La Villasse and the Roman bridge. After

Lavender fields and distillery, Provence

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brittany

Carnac & Beyond

2nd - 8th September 2019 | 7 Days from $3,473 (single supplement $415) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

The walled town of Vannes, Brittany

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rittany offers a prehistoric landscape filled with some of the greatest Megalithic monuments in the world, from standing stones to chambered tombs. An entire day is dedicated to visiting Carnac, where stone rows writhe across the heather-clad countryside or stand in woodland wreathed in ivy and moss. Explore passage graves where depictions of axes and bows mark the resting places of a selected few of the Neolithic population.

Based in one hotel in Carnac, this tour gives a memorable insight into the rites and rituals of our Stone Age ancestors, not to mention the chance to soak up the unique Breton atmosphere.

guide lecturers Dr. Nick Thorpe is a Senior Lecturer in Archaeology at the University of Winchester. He has published numerous books and articles on prehistoric Wessex, Britain and Europe, as well as on burial practices, the origins of agriculture, warfare, ancient inventions and the archaeological fringe. His current fieldwork projects are in both Somerset and Denmark.

highlights Devote an entire day to the sites of Carnac Enjoy hills, heather & beaches in this ‘Celtic’ region See passage graves, chambered tombs & polished axes

England

Take a ferry to the Island of Gavr’inis Soak in the beauty of the glorious French countryside

carnac and gavr’inis

A fascinating tour exploring the prehistoric sites of Brittany.

At Carnac, we encounter the world’s largest assemblage of megalithic sites with over 3,000 standing stones, erected during the Neolithic in alignments, as well as a variety of dolmens. On Gav’rinis Island, we find a well preserved tomb with decorated slabs in its passage showing geometric patterns relating it to the Irish monuments of Newgrange and Knowth.

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Brittany Carnac Vannes Plouharnel Locmariaquer Arzon Peninsula Island of gavr' inis

France

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Mané-Kerioned, a group of three dolmens, which we explore before we visit the Carnac Prehistory Museum. It houses some of the richest collections in the world for Megalithic culture.

The museum contains a wonderful array of aftifacts including Alpine jade axes, some of the best-preserved jewelry and exquisitely knapped arrowheads.

Hotel: Overnight in Carnac Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Carnac

Today is spent exploring the wonderful Megalithic sites of Carnac. The fantastic rows of stones, over 3000 of them, run for over three kilometers across the Breton countryside. They are accompanied by tombs in the form of tumuli and dolmens (eroded stone built tombs with capstones). There are four groups of alignments, three of which may once have formed a single conglomeration. We will visit the rows at Le Menec, and view the alignments of Kermario. After lunch, we explore the passage grave at Kercado, and visit the menhir known as Le Géant du Manio. Along a forest trail, we find the giant in a clearing, standing over 6 meters high.

Hotel: Overnight in Carnac Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Carnac

Menhirs alignment, Carnac

itinerary Day One | Carnac

Our tour departs by train from London to Vannes, via Paris.

From here, we take a coach to our hotel in Carnac where you will be staying for the next six nights. It is here in the northwest of France we find this historic coastal town, home to the arrangement of Carnac stones set across three different alignments.

Hotel: Overnight in Carnac Meals: Dinner included

We delve into the Le Rocher passage tomb and then it’s on to the Arzon peninsula, on the south side of the Gulf of Morbihan where we visit the Petit Mont Cairn. This extraordinary cairn has been much reconstructed but is still a very impressive construction of about 4600 BC with several phases of burial chambers. It was commandeered in 1943 to have a bunker, part of the Atlantic Wall, built into it. Ironically, the damage created revealed the very first dolmen chamber.

Hotel: Overnight in Carnac Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Depart Vannes

We drive to Vannes for our train home, via Paris.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Two | Carnac

This morning we explore Locmariaquer. Megalithic monuments of the surrounding area include the Mané-Lud Carnac mound, a large and prominent passage tomb with a central burial at the entrance to the village; the passage-tomb, Mané Rutuel, and the giant fallen stone known as the Grand Menhir Brisé. We end the day at the Table des Marchands, a Neolithic burial complex.

Hotel: Overnight in Carnac Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Carnac

We travel by boat to the island of Gavr’inis in the Gulf of Morbihan. We find an important passage grave constructed around 3500, decorated with symbolic and abstract designs in a virtuoso display of prehistoric art. We also stop to view the stone circles of Er-Lannic. One circle marches into the sea, the second has long since vanished beneath the waves. We end the day with a visit to the excellent Archaeological Museum in Vannes before returning to our hotel.

Hotel: Overnight in Carnac Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Carnac

Various sites lay between Plouharnel and Erdeven, including

Kermario Dolmen, Carnac

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rock art

of the French Alps

10th - 14th September 2019 | 5 Days from $2,845 (single supplement $445) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

The Lac Jumeaux in Fontanalba, home to prehistoric engravings

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ur rock art tour takes us to a beautiful area of the French Alps, where the flat, ice-scoured rocks provided a durable canvas on which people hammered out images of the life they knew. Lying in remote valleys, the art encompasses every facet of prehistoric life, from ploughs and oxen, to abstract signs and symbols whose meanings can only be guessed at.

Expert Dr. Tertia Barnett returns to explore the sites hidden above the Cote d’Azur. Enjoy some lovely walks through beautiful alpine scenery, which has remained little-changed for thousands of years. This tour offers an unusual view of the history of southern France.

highlights Surround yourself with beautiful alpine scenery

guide lecturers Dr. Tertia Barnett is an Honorary Fellow at Edinburgh University. She currently works for the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland. Her interests lie in the rock art of Britain and North Africa, and in the symbolic context of rock art as well as its relationship with cultural changes in the lives of its makers. Tertia has conducted fieldwork projects both recording and conserving rock art in regions as diverse as Libya and Northumberland, and she is working to raise awareness of Scotland’s rural past in her present role.

Visit the medieval village of La Brigue Explore Vallée des Merveilles

Rock art carvings in Merveilles

View archaeological finds at intriguing museums Stand before over 10,000 images that give a glimpse of prehistoric life, from ploughing and weaving, to weaponry and religious symbols

mercantour valley

In the heart of the Mercantour Valley, we find over 40,000 rock engravings on the red rock cliffs 2,500 meters above sea level. These are claimed to be some of the highest engravings in the world and the sheer amount of art found here could be owed to the theory that this site was of particular ceremonial interest, however the valley itself was never inhabited. We travel in 4x4s to reach some of these Bronze Age carvings.

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Day Three | Menton

Today we visit Tende, a picturesque medieval village, nestled into the mountainous foothills. Once part of Italy, this town has a rich heritage, fascinating architecture and a wealth of historic relics, well beyond what one would think of a town this size. Here we see the Museum of Merveilles, where rock art and archaeological finds from across the region are on display.

In the afternoon, we drive out to the village of La Brigue to the south of Tende, which also became a part of France after World War II. Our day concludes with a visit to the Museum of Patrimonie to learn about the history of the region.

Hotel: Overnight in Menton Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Menton

Guests exploring at Fontanalba

itinerary Day One | Menton

Upon arrival in Nice we transfer to our hotel in Menton. This spot on the Mediterranean coast is the last French town before Italy. This is a hidden gem on the Côte d’Azur, with pastelcoloured houses, a picturesque old harbour and an excellent array of local cuisine. In summary, a quintessentially French hide-away.

Hotel: Overnight in Menton Meals: Dinner included

This morning, we drive out to the Vallé des Merveilles to visit the Refuge des Merveilles. We will spend the day exploring the area in 4x4 vehicles. Aptly named, this valley holds many marvels we seek to discover in our visit. We find the largest number of open air Bronze Age rock engravings in Europe.

The images contain animal representations, but also spirals, suns, stars and unique human figures, as well as an array of weapons. The engravings were first identified in 1881, by British amateur archaeologist and naturalist Clarence Bicknell, they were then more extensively catalogued in the 1960s by French archaeologist Henry de Lumley. Dr. Barnett will recount the latest theories and findings. The cave art isn’t the only wonder the valley holds as the natural landscape here is just as spectacular as the man-made ones.

Hotel: Overnight in Menton Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Depart Menton

On our final day we check out of our hotel, but before we leave, there is time for one last visit to this wonderful part of the world. This morning is spent on a visit to the Menton Museum of Regional Prehistory. We explore the fascinating finds that showcase the million-year history of the area. Displayed here are female figurines and decorated artefacts dating back over 25,000 years from the Balzi Rossi caves. After lunch, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Two | Menton

On the first day, we begin with an introductory orientation session with our guide lecturer to learn about the region in general and the context of the prehistoric art we shall be seeing.

Soon after, we head out to the first site of Fontanalba, taking a cross-country route in 4x4 vehicles. About 30,000 engravings have been detected here, comprising animals, “landscapes”, objects like daggers and geometric patterns. The sandstone rock has been polished by glacier waters and makes the perfect surface to create these astonishing figures. After lunch, there is the option of taking a scenic walk back across the beautiful French countryside.

Hotel: Overnight in Menton Meals: All meals included

Rock art carvings in Merveilles

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romans, visigoths & viziers 1st - 8th April 2019 | 9th - 16th September 2019 | 8 Days from $2,978 (single supplement $515) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

The Alhambra Palace, Granada

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outhern Spain, bathed in sun, rich in precious metals, wine and olive oil has long attracted the romantic of covetous. Ancient Tartessos may have been the location of the gardens of the Hesperides. Iberian civilizations flourished, Phoenicians and Carthaginians founded colonies and the Romans and Visigoths bound it all together.

As Europe entered the ‘Dark Ages’ Al-Andalus thrived under its new Moorish rulers, who fashioned marvelous palaces and gardens, which still grace Córdoba and Granada, becoming the center of European civilization. From prehistory to the Renaissance, our tour progresses through this vibrant and fascinating region.

guide lecturers Doru Bogdan is a researcher and lecturer at Alba Iulia University, Romania.

He specializes in Roman archaeology and has supervised excavations in Carnuntum (Austria), Pompeii (Italy), Catalhöyük (Turkey) and Birdoswald (UK). Doru has also directed numerous archaeological excavations and research projects in Transylvania and the Lower Danube/Black Sea area of Dobrudja.

highlights Follow the scenic route of the Via Augusta Tour vibrant Seville, Moorish Córdoba and Granada Explore the ruined Moorish Palace of Medina Azahara Enjoy private access to Castulo, a ruined Iberian city

Spain

Indulge in glorious Spanish cuisine at each stop

Córdoba Carmona

alhambra palace

Alhambra, from the Arabic Qalat Ai-Hamiza, is one of Spain’s most precious monuments, a relic of its Muslim past and a late flourishing of Muslim architecture. A site which has its roots in Rome and it was used as late as Ferdinand and Isabella. It was transformed from a fortress into a palace by Yusuf I, Sultan of Granada. At its height, its gardens were conceived as a paradise on earth, while its more stark exterior is in Nasrid style, devoid of Byzantine influences.

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Jaén

Baena

Seville Granada

Málaga

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display among the collections in the Carmona Museum are the Tartessian and Roman remains. In the afternoon, we spend time in the Greco-Royal village of Ecija, where we view the splendid mosaics unearthed in local excavations. Finally, we end our day in Córdoba.

Hotel: Parador de Córdoba Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Córdoba

After breakfast, we venture out of the city to explore the ruined Moorish palace of Medina Azahara. Upon our return to Córdoba, we explore a city colonised by Muslims until the 8th century. We visit the Archaeological Museum and explore the Mezquita, a peerless mosque which transformed into an elaborate gilt cathedral in the 16th century. Lastly, we explore the atmospheric Jewish Quarter.

Hotel: Parador de Córdoba Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Córdoba

We visit the archaeological park of Torreparedones, an important Ibero-Roman site were we see a market and forum. After lunch, we have private access to the Baena Archaeological Museum. Here, we view the artifacts recovered from the site and the larger region dating from Prehistory to the Middle Ages.

Hotel: Parador de Córdoba Meals: All meals included Alcázar Royal Palace

itinerary Day One | London - Seville

We fly from London and upon arrival in Seville, we transfer to our hotel.

Hotel: Hotel Ayre or Gran Mélia Colon Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Seville

This morning we spend time exploring Seville, starting with a visit to the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, the largest Gothic church in the world. Afterwards, we take a tour of the Reales Alcazares, the oldest European royal palace still in use today. We continue on to another noble residence, the Palacio de Lebrija, housing an Archaeological Museum famous for its Roman mosaics.

Hotel: Hotel Ayre or Gran Mélia Colon Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Córdoba - Granada

We start at the Andalucian city of Jaén, viewing the large collection of archaeological artifacts from the Iberian period.

After lunch, we visit the Alhambra, with its enchanting blend of Arabic and Renaissance architecture. Described by Muslim poets as a pearl set in emeralds, there are fewer places more famous than this - it a true highlight of our tour.

Hotel: La Casa de la Trinidad, Granada Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Málaga - London

We drive to Málaga on Spain’s southern coast and take our return flights home from here.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Seville

A short drive brings us to Las Setas to visit the archaeological remains underneath the wooden structure Metropol Parasol.

In the Archaeological Museum, we explore the collections on display from Prehistory, to the Roman city of Italica and up to the medieval period. This afternoon we drive north to Italica, birthplace of Roman Emperors Trajan and Hadrian.

Founded by General Scipio in the 3rd century BC, Italica is home to many Roman remains, ancient cobbled streets and one of the largest amphitheaters in the Empire. This is a perfect introduction to the region.

Hotel: Hotel Ayre or Gran Mélia Colon Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Seville - Córdoba

This morning we travel to Carmona to explore the ruins of the ancient city, the fortress, as well as the necropolis, famed for its extensive rock-cut tombs. The most important finds on

Plaza de España, Seville

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Additional departure dates for 2019

rock art of altamira Guaranteed: 27th May - 3rd June 2019 | 9th - 16th September 2019 | 8 Days GUARANTEED from $3,765 (single supplement $715) DEPARTURE What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Rock art depiction of a prehistoric bison in the Altamira Caves

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ecorated 15-35,000 years ago, the caves of Altamira still displays some of humankind’s first great artistic achievements. This is a unique chance to view the vivid images of horse, bison and deer that have come to epitomise Paleolithic art. We stay in historic towns in the hills of Northern Spain. A visit to an Ice Age cave really is a tremendous privilege; where else could you approach original masterpieces of such immense antiquity in situ?

View the images precisely where they were created, standing or crouching exactly as the original artists did.

highlights See the painted cave of Altamira A close encounter with our Stone Age antecedents

guide lecturers Dr. Paul Bahn - May is the leading expert on prehistoric rock art worldwide and is certainly one of our bestknown archaeologists. He led the team that first discovered the Ice Age cave art in Britain back in 2003 and not only is he a leading academic, he is also a great exponent of popular and accessibly archaeology. Paul has been leading tours with Andante since 2000 and he continues to inspire and enthuse our travelers today in the famous caves of France and Spain, in the open-air shelters of Portugal, and in Chile and Easter Island.

Our Expert Guide for September is yet to be confirmed. Please check our website for latest updates.

Visit the modern Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao Wander the medieval streets of Santillana del Mar Experience it all alongside an expert in rock art Asturias

altamira, el pindal & candamo

Altamira of course, is the best-known of the Spanish caves.

However, the other caves are no less impressive. Our guides will provide insights into the time of the creation of these fascinating images, as well as the life of their creators. Join us on this fascinating tour, where we have the chance to view the painted cave of Altamira, El Pindal and Candamo, some facsimiles and, were possible, the original caves.

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Santillana del Mar

Candamo Oviedo Teverga

El Pindal

Altamira

Bilbao

Spain

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Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Santillana del Mar

We travel into the hills to the south of Santillana, site of several decorated caves, two of which we will visit. Las Monedas is a large, labyrinthine cave in which bear bones were also found. The art found here is extremely homogeneous and it is considered likely that it was produced by just one person. The art of El Castillo, by contrast, clearly belongs to a number of different phases, and recently produced some of the earliest dates for cave art in the world, more than 40,000 years. There are hundreds of animal figures and 50 red hand stencils.

This afternoon there will be free time to explore the historic town of Santillana.

Hotel: Overnight in Santillana del Mar Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Santillana del Mar - Oveido

We travel west along the coast into the mountainous region of Asturias to La Loja - a cave with some fine engravings which stand out clearly in white against the dark rock. This afternoon we see the huge cave of Tito Bustillo, in the town of Ribadesella. It was only discovered in 1968 by a group of young cavers, and the main panel here is one of the glories of Ice Age art. The cave is rich in artworks, but is most famed for its spectacular frieze of horses and reindeer.

Hotel: Overnight in Oviedo Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Oveido Cityscape of Bilbao and the Guggenheim Museum

itinerary Day One | Bilbao

Arrive in Bilbao and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Hotel Abando Meals: Lunch & dinner included

Day Two | Bilbao

This morning we drive to the facsimile of the painted cave discovered in 1969 at Ekain in the Basque country, with some of the most realistic colorful depictions of horse and bison.

We leave the prehistoric era behind this afternoon, with a visit to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, built alongside the Nervion River. Note the stark contrast between ancient and modern art.

Hotel: Hotel Abando Meals: All meals included

We visit Candamo, where the most famous engraving is a big stag turning its head, and apparently pierced by many spears.

We also view many other fine figures, some in surprising locations. Our final visit of the tour is to the Prehistoric park at Teverga, for a superb final overview of the caves.

Hotel: Overnight in Oviedo Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Oveido

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Bilbao - Santillana del Mar

We have an attractive drive through the mountains to the small cave of Covalanas, decorated with deer drawn entirely in red dotted outline. After lunch we visit the cave of El Pendo, which contains a panel 8.8m long of painted animals. Portable art in bone and antler was also found here, in tremendous quantities.

Hotel: Overnight in Santillana del Mar Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Santillana del Mar

Today we reach the famous site of Altamira, where we see the superb facsimile of the cave and the museum. Continue along the coast to El Pindal, a cave set into the cliffs above the sea one of the most beautiful and spectacular locations of all the decorated caves. Here there is a series of geometric signs, and a variety of animal figures, including bison, deer, a fish and an unusual painting of a mammoth.

Hotel: Overnight in Santillana del Mar

The town of Santillana del Mar

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spain & portugal

Roman Lusitania

Guaranteed: 14th - 21st April 2019 | 1st - 8th September 2019 | 8 Days from $3,295 (single supplement $595) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Guests exploring the Mérida theater and amphitheater

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ispania was one of the wealthiest parts of the ancient Mediterranean. It’s rich fisheries, silver mines and agriculture can be seen clearly in its western lands, Roman Lusitania.

Founded by Emperor Augustus in 25BC, Mérida is home to a large number of grand monuments, a forum, triumphal arch and amphitheater, all of which emphasise its significance. The countryside too was dotted with villas, dams and industrial sites, including the huge fish sauce production at Trofa. Our journey takes us from the coast of Lisbon through beautiful countryside as we encounter prehistoric tombs, Roman towns and the sites of the Napoleonic wars.

highlights

guide lecturers Dr. Andy Souter currently works for the University of Reading and is an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. He is particularly interested in the architecture of ancient Rome and has completed a PhD thesis on the rural economy of Roman Portugal. Andy has worked on a number of fieldwork projects including those at Felix Romuliana (Serbia) and Portus (Italy) and has completed research at a number of diverse sites in central and southern Portugal.

Enjoy a private tour of the Archaeological Crypt in Alcácer do Sal Enter the atmospheric Chapel of Bones in Évora Wander the city of Mérida and see the Roman aqueduct, Los Milagros View intricate mosaics and well-preserved frescoes Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cáceres Portugal Cáceres

mÉrida

Mérida, the capital of Roman Lusitania was founded in 25BC by the victorious army of Emperor Augustus. During its imperial glory days, a large number of grand Roman monuments were erected; many, including the Forum, triumphal arch and amphitheater, dominate the town to this day. The superb evidence of the impact of Rome here is the main focus of our program, but it is enhanced by some spectacular prehistoric and medieval sites along the way.

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Lisbon Alcacer Troia

Elvas Arraiolos Os Almendres Vidigueira

Medellin Mérida Badajoz

Spain

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The small section which survives consists of 38 vaults standing 25m high and it is truly spectacular. There will be an optional walk to the Roman bridge before returning to our hotel.

Hotel: Parador de Mérida, Mérida Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Mérida

We start our day on foot by walking to the 11th century Muslim fortification, the Alcazaba, the best preserved citadel of its kind. Next, we drive to Casa del Mitreo to view its mosaics and well-preserved frescoes. After lunch we make our way to the National Museum of Roman Art, home to aftifacts that were excavated from the nearby theater and amphitheater.

Hotel: Parador de Mérida, Mérida Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Mérida

This morning we visit the Roman foundations of Cornalvo Dam, where we explore its Roman foundations, dating to the 1st or 2nd century AD. Afterwards, we drive to Medellín to view its castle, church and Roman theater. Medellín Castle.

This afternoon we explore the Roman Circus back in Mérida and the Basilica de Santa Eulalia.

Hotel: Parador de Mérida, Mérida Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Mérida Juromenha Fort

itinerary Day One | Lisbon

Arrive in Lisbon and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Pousada do Alcácer Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Alcácer - Arraiolos

Our day begins at the Cripta Arqueologica do Castelo de Alcácer do Sal and after this visit, we drive on to Troía. The site here was formerly the largest garum production center in the Roman World, boasting some 52 factories. After lunch, we visit the largest prehistoric burial chamber in the Iberian peninsula, Anta Grande do Zambujeiro. The last stop of the day will be at the megalithic complex of Os Almendres. Dating from 5000 to 4000 BC, it is the largest collection of menhirs in the Iberian peninsula. We end the day in Arraiolos.

Hotel: Pousada Convento de Arraiolos Meals: All meals included

After breakfast, we have a tour of the to Cáceres Museum to pore over its aftifacts before having a special tour of the town.

After lunch we visit the Basilica of Santa Lucia del Trampal, the only extant visigothic church in the Iberian peninsula. This afternoon, we have a guided tour of the town with our expert guide before returning to our hotel for a farewell dinner.

Hotel: Parador de Mérida, Mérida Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Lisbon

On our final morning, we visit the Amoreira Aqueduct in Elvas. After lunch, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

Day Three | Arraiolos

The first visit today will be to the Chapel of Bones in Évora, a macabre 16th century chapel decorated with skulls and bones, exhumed from local cemeteries. We continue on to the Escoural Cave to view its Paleolithic art. After lunch, we visit the museum at Villa de Frades. Before we head back to our hotel, we explore the Roman Villa at of the São Cucufate.

Hotel: Pousada Convento de Arraiolos Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Arraiolos - Mérida

We travel to the town of Badajoz, situated near the Portuguese border to visit the Provincial Archaeological Museum. In the afternoon, we drive to Mérida and admire the ruins of the Aqueduct de Los Milagros, constructed in the 1st century AD to supply the Roman colony of Emerita Augusta with water.

Roman aqueduct, Los Milagros in Mérida

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mediterranean odyssey 26th August - 9th September | 15 Days from $3,995 What’s Included 5 countries | 2 hotel nights | 8 shore excursions | 5 ‘Only with Andante’ extras

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iscover the culture, history and archaeology of the Mediterranean on this special journey which combines the delights of wine tasting with expert led visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From an indulgent sherry tasting in Cadiz and the chance to wander the historic, fortified city of Carcasonne, to a very special exploration of ancient Rome in the company of an expert – this unique tour offers a range of fascinating and unforgettable experiences. Travelling aboard the fantastic Aegean Odyssey, you will visit archaeological sites and museums, all while enjoying the benefits of all-inclusive, small-ship cruising. This is a journey which has been shaped by experts and will provide you with unique insights into these fantastic destinations.

guide lecturers Dr. Simon Elliott is an archaeologist, historian, author and broadcaster with a PhD in Archaeology from the University of Kent where he is an Honorary Research Fellow, an MA in Archaeology from UCL and an MA in War Studies from KCL. He has five published works to date on themes related to Roman Britain and the Roman military, including Sea Eagles, Empire State, Septimius Severus in Scotland, Roman Legionaries and Ragstone to Riches.

‘ONLY WITH ANDANTE’ EXTRAS An extended tour of the Colosseum, including its subterranean areas as well as the Belvedere areas Visits to lesser-known ancient highlights such as Portus (Trajan’s Harbour) and Domus Aurea (Nero’s Palace)

Pantheon, Rome

See the Basilica of San Clemente, one of Rome’s lesser known jewels Visit the highlights of ancient Rome accompanied by a well known archaeologist and writer

special access

There are few palaces which are more famous than Nero’s Golden House, his Domus Aurea. Built after the disastrous fire of AD 64, the Domus Aurea once covered the slopes of four hills and may have been as big as 300 acres. While the ancient writer Martial complained that ‘One House took up the whole of the city’, there is no denying that the palace was an artistic wonder, including a rotating ceiling, an artificial lake, and woodlands.

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Day Seven | Carcassonne

A choice of excursions to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Carcassonne or the historical treasures of Montpellier.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Avignon

A further choice of day trips to the remarkable Papal Palace in Avignon or Aix-en-Provence, birthplace of Paul Cezanne.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Monte Carlo

Leave Marseilles for a day cruising the French Riviera en route to Monaco.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Monte Carlo

Take a sightseeing tour of Monte Carlo or join an optional tour of the scenic French Riviera and Nice (extra cost).

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Portofino

We cruise Italy’s iconic Cinque Terre this morning.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included Aegean Odyssey

itinerary Day One | Lisbon

Fly to Lisbon and embark Aegean Odyssey.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: Dinner included

Day Two| Cádiz

Travel to Jerez de la Frontera for a taste of sherry in its spiritual home, or tour the historic sites of Cádiz.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Three| Malaga

Enjoy a panoramic drive around the great sites of Malaga and a visit to the Picasso Museum, or a full day excursion to Granada (extra cost), where we will visit the splendid Moorish palace of the Alhambra.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Four | At sea

Lectures and activities at sea as we sail north.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Twelve | Florence

From Livorno, take a drive through the Tuscan hills on a day trip to the powerhouse of the Italian Renaissance, Florence, or the historic cities of Pisa and Lucca.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Thirteen | Rome

Disembark in Civitavecchia and visit Portus (Trajan’s Harbour), followed by an exploration of Nero’s palace - the Domus Aurea - and a walk to the Basilica of San Clemente.

Hotel: Albergho Santa Chiara Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen | Rome

Explore ancient highlights including the Colosseum (with Belvedere and underground areas), the Imperial Forums, Trajan’s Column and the Pantheon.

Hotel: Albergho Santa Chiara Meals: All meals included

Day Fifteen | Depart Rome

After a visit to Ostia Antica, Ancient Rome’s harbour city, transfer to Rome Airport for your individual flights home.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Five| Tarragona

Discover more than two millennia of history in Tarragona.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Barcelona

Choose from a selection of three morning tours of Barcelona, including one exploring the Roman sites of this enthralling city.

The afternoon at leisure.

Hotel: Aegean Odyssey Meals: All meals included

City of Florence and the iconic Duomo

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aegean coast of turkey 5th - 15th October 2019 | 11 Days from $3,753 (single supplement $635) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Amphitheater in Hierapolis

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he Greek and Roman cities of Turkey’s Aegean coast were once some of the most powerful in the ancient world, from - if Homer is to be believed - the site of the legendary conflict between Greeks and Trojans, to the World Heritage Site of Hierapolis. The remains of these splendid cities are set in a breathtaking landscape of rugged limestone peaks, plunging valleys, olive groves, pine forests and flower-dotted meadows, with the startlingly blue waters of the Aegean Sea glittering in the distance. Each site we visit offers a memorable experience, but the star attraction is undoubtedly the special access we have to the Roman-era terraced houses of Ephesus, whose painted walls and mosaics are amazing.

highlights Gaze upon the mighty walls of Troy

guide lecturers Terry Richardson has a background in Ancient History and Classical Civilization.

He first traveled to Turkey as an undergraduate in 1977 and has been back countless times since. He also lived in southwest Turkey for some 13 years.

He is the author of Rough Guide Istanbul, Pocket Rough Guide Istanbul and is main author of Rough Guide Turkey. Terry has worked on many other guides, including Eyewitness Istanbul and Eyewitness Turkey, and has written about Turkey and Istanbul for publications as varied as The Daily Telegraph, The Guardian and Wanderlust.

Explore well-preserved Classical cities and lesser-known ruins Enjoy the sublime scenery of the Aegean Coast away from resorts Tekirdag

Uncover the stories woven deeply into this area’s rich tapestry Experience this adventure in the company of a revered expert

special access

The star of this tour is special access to the Roman terraced houses of Ephesus, whose painted walls and mosaics have been beautifully restored over a number of years. The houses are located opposite the Hadrian Temple at the bottom end of the Bulbul mountain.

They are also known as the “houses of the rich” and have historic importance in helping us understand about family life during the Roman period.

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Çanakkale Troy Alexandria Troas Assos Ayvalik Pergamon Izmir

Priene Miletus

Istanbul

Turkey

Karabel

Selçuk Kusadasi

Pamukkale Aphrodisias

Didyma

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Day Six | Izmir - Sardis - Pamukkale

We enjoy a brush with the Hittites – an ancient Bronze Age Turkish civilization - at the Karabel rock relief, then drive to Sardis, with its gymnasium, bath house and finely preserved Temple of Artemis. We continue to Pamukkale, the limestone ‘cotton castle.’

Hotel: Doga Thermal Hotel Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Seven | Pamukkale - Hierapolis

Explore ancient Hierapolis with extensive tombs, a ‘Plutonium’ (shrine to the underworld deity Pluto) and the oracular Temple of Apollo. Limescale formations with cascading pools and hot springs make this site picturesque. Enjoy a free afternoon.

Hotel: Doga Thermal Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Pamukkale - Kusadasi

We travel east up the valley of the Maeander River, through magnificent scenery to the site of Aphrodisias. The mountains surrounding this idyllic site produce very fine white marble and the city became famous for its sculptors.

Hotel: Charisma Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Kusadasi

Tetrapylon, entrance of Aphrodite’s Temple

itinerary Day One | Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to the hotel.

Hotel: Divan Çorlu Hotel Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Istanbul - Troy - Assos

We take the ferry to Çanakkale and visit the site of ancient Troy. Imagine the Greek army across the landscape, while Paris strode the walls of the city and Hector duelled with Achilles.

Hotel: Assos Kervansaray Hotel Meals: All meals included

Spend the morning at Priene, set on a wooded hillside beneath a limestone peak. The Temple of Athena stands as a substantial ruin. Visit Didyma, a temple that housed a shrine to Apollo.

End the day at Miletus, home of philosophers and scientists.

Hotel: Charisma Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Kusadasi

Our tour culminates at Ephesus, one of western Turkey’s highlights. We enjoy exclusive access to the Roman terraced houses and we also visit the Basilica of St. John at Selçuk.

Hotel: Charisma Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Depart Izmir

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Three | Assos

This morning, we drive from sea level up to the site of Assos, perched on a prominent hilltop overlooking the Aegean and Sappho’s island of Lesbos. We also explore the Doric Temple of Athena and then enjoy an afternoon of relaxing leisure time.

Hotel: Assos Kervansaray Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Assos - Ayvalik

We visit the ruins of Alexandria Troas. Surviving features include the agora temple, its columns and reliefs, a partly excavated odeon and superb section of Roman streets. This afternoon, we drive to atmospheric Ayvalik.

Hotel: Bacacan Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Ayvalik - Pergamon - Izmir

We spend the day at the great Hellenistic city of Pergamon, whose extensive remains range across a rocky outcrop. Our explorations include the Acropolis, theater, and the altar of Zeus. We visit the Pergamon Museum and the Aesclepium.

Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Meals: All meals included

Ephesus Library Square

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north east turkey 18th - 28th September 2019 | 11 Days from $4,178 (single supplement $785) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Ishak Pasha Palace

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he dramatic landscapes between the Black Sea and Lake Van include the snow-capped volcanic peak of Mount Ararat. The name Ararat is a derivation of “Urartu”, an enigmatic Iron Age kingdom that wielded great power over a highland territory.

We visit a number of citadels, built during the political upheavals of the 1st millennium BC. The kingdom was taken by the Armenians, whose conversion to Christianity in AD 301 by St. Gregory the Illuminator brought a new religious landscape to the region. Our tour ends at the mountain-ringed Lake Van - a fitting end to an exceptional journey, having explored a region far beyond the reach of most tourists.

highlights Explore the remote Kingdom of Urartu and its palace complexes

guide lecturers Terry Richardson has a background in Ancient History and Classical Civilization.

He first traveled to Turkey as an undergraduate in 1977 and has been back countless times since. He also lived in southwest Turkey for some 13 years.

He is the author of Rough Guide Istanbul, Pocket Rough Guide Istanbul and is main author of Rough Guide Turkey. Terry has worked on many other guides, including Eyewitness Istanbul and Eyewitness Turkey, and has written about Turkey and Istanbul for publications as varied as The Daily Telegraph, The Guardian and Wanderlust.

Tour the ruined medieval Armenian city of Ani Admire spectacular scenery from dense forest to volcanic craters Learn more about the history of these little-visited parts of Turkey Observe incredible architecture in each of the locations we explore Sumela Monastery

st. anna and sumela monastery

During our tour we visit the Greek Orthodox Sumela Monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary built on the cliffs outside of Trabazon.

The main church, formed from a natural cave and built in the shape of an extended apse, is covered both inside and out with colorful frescoes depicting everything from the Virgin Mary to the Last Judgment.

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Trabzon Kars

Erzurum

Turkey

Ahlat

Ani Doğubeyazıt Ishak Pacha Van

Akdamar Adasi Hosap Kalesi

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of elegant tombs with conical roofs, and the Ulu Cami (Friday Mosque), notable for its wooden dome.

Hotel: Cheltikov Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Kars

Our exploration of early Armenian history continues today at Ani. It was a natural fortress, defended on two sides by deep ravines. Later, we admire the frescoes within the Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator, and then we return to Kars to visit the citadel and Church of the Holy Apostles.

Hotel: Cheltikov Hotel Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Six | Kars - Doğubeyazit

We drive to Doğubeyazıt this morning, a garrison town close to the frontier with Iran. The main focus here is the romantic 17th century Işak Paşa Saray, dramatically situated on a limestone ridge with superb views over the Ararat Plain below.

There is a Urartian rock-cut chamber in the cliff-face behind the palace, flanked by relief-carved figures. The views to Mount Ararat from Doğubeyazıt are superb.

Hotel: Butik Ertur Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Doğubeyazit - Tatran

itinerary

We drive over the Tendurek Pass, past frozen lava flows, and get our first tantalizing glimpses of startlingly blue Lake Van. We navigate the northern shore of the lake, passing beneath towering Mount Suphan to the medieval city of Ahlat with monumental tombs and elaborately carved gravestones.

Hotel: Hotel Kardelen Meals: All meals included

Day One | Trabzon

Day Eight | Tatran - Van

Sumela Monastery, Trabzon

Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to Trabzon, located on the historic Silk Road. Upon arrival, we check in to our hotel.

Hotel: Zorlu Grand Hotel Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Trabzon

Today, we tour Trabzon, the last outpost of Byzantium and once a major stop on the Silk Road. The Greek General Xenophon reached here in 401BC with 10,000 troops following his retreat from Mesopotamia, as recorded in his Anabasis. We also visit the 13th century Church of Hagia Sophia, with its impressive Byzantine frescoes, and the citadel that overlooks the sea and modern city.

Hotel: Zorlu Grand Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Trabzon - Erzurum

Today we travel to the Sumela Monastery, which is spectacularly built into a sheer cliff that peeps out from densely forested slopes. It dates from the 6th century and boasts some fine frescoes. The monastery was hastily abandoned in 1923 following the population exchange between Greece and the newly founded Republic of Turkey. We then drive over the Zigana Pass and follow the old Silk Road to Erzurum, the highest city in the country.

Hotel: Polat Erzurum Resort Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Erzurum - Kars

We walk around the austere yet fascinating historic city of Erzurum, visiting a number of atmospheric buildings left by the Saltukid and other Islamic dynasties. These include the 13th century Çifte Minare Medrese (Double-minaret religious school), the glazed-tile adorned Yakutiye Medrese, a number

We descend into the deep valley carved by the river Bitlis and make a stop here to visit a charming 7th century Armenian church, which is now used by local Kurdish villagers as a barn.

From here, we then head to Akhtamar Island and visit the Armenian Apostolic Cathedral.

Hotel: Elite World Van Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Van

Today we explore Old Van, including the mighty Rock of Van and the burial chambers of the Uratian King Argishti.

Later, we visit the remains of the city that stood at the foot of the ‘rock’ complete with Ottoman mosques and Armenian churches.

Hotel: Elite World Van Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Van

We drive south deep into the heart of the mountains to visit the fairytale fortress of Hoşap, which was built by a Kurdish chieftan in the 17th century. Our final visit today will be to the Uratian citadel-palace of Çavuştepe.

Hotel: Elite World Van Hotel Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Eleven | Depart Istanbul

After breakfast, we travel from Van to Istanbul. From here, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

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israel & palestine 24th September - 4th October 2019 | 11 Days from $5,153 (single supplement $1,295)

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Interior of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

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The ruins of Bethesda Pool

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here are few places on earth that can boast such a rich, varied and important archaeological heritage as both Israel and Palestine.

Over the millennia, this ancient land has felt the tread of conquerors and settlers: Canaanites, Israelites, Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Crusaders, Ottomans and even Imperial Britons, all of whom have left their signature.

Discover the incredible archaeology of Jerusalem - the most holy of cities - and uncover the tragedy of Masada, before visiting one of the oldest cities in the world, Jericho.

highlights Explore an abundance of iconic ancient sites on this fascinating trip

guide lecturers Nick Jackson graduated in archaeology from the prestigious Institute of Archaeology UCL in London, and later took up a research post at the University of Cambridge. Nick is an archaeologist and historian with over 20 years of excavation and guiding experience for Andante. His varied archaeological excavations in the Middle East have focused on the Bronze Age, specifically the developments in the region of the late 2nd Millennium - a crucial period for the birth of Israel archaeology.

Visit one of the world’s oldest cities, Jericho Spend three days in Jerusalem, where a wealth of history awaits Learn more about the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran

Tel Dan

Discover Masada, one of the greatest archaeological sites in Israel

Tiberias Tzipori

dead sea scrolls

Qumran is an archaeological site in the West Bank, best known as the location where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. The first discovery was made in 1947 by a Bedouin herder who found clay jars containing scrolls that had been wrapped in linen for almost 2,000 years.

Thereafter, over 900 scrolls were found in a series of caves around the settlement with text written in Hebrew, Greek, Nabateans and Aramaic, including a scroll containing a biblical text.

Jezreel Valley Belvoir Tel Megiddo

Caesarea Maritima

Beth She’an Akko Tel Aviv Jericho Jerusalem

Israel & Palestine

Tel Arad Dead Sea

Masada

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itinerary Day One | Tel Aviv

Upon arrival in Tel Aviv, we transfer to our hotel located in northern Israel on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. We have a welcome night’s rest before starting our adventure tomorrow.

Hotel: Nof Ginosar Hotel Meals: Snack in hotel room due to late arrival

Day Two | Ginosar - Tel Meggido

We spend our first morning in Israel exploring the Roman and Byzantine city of Beth She’an, thought to have been occupied since the 6th to the 5th millennia BC. The city flourished under the Pax Romana, and continues to thrive thanks to its location as a junction between the Jezreel and Jordan Valleys. We pay a visit to the 6th century synagogue of Beth Alpha, which was discovered in the 1920s and features colorful wall panels depicting scenes such as the Binding of Isaac, and a beautiful Greco-Roman zodiac. After lunch, we delve into Jezreel Valley, a fertile “land of milk and honey”. Here we explore the ancient city of Tel Megiddo, better known as Armageddon. Its location, on a narrow pass along a vital trade route, led to Tel Meggido being of great strategic importance in the ancient world, and the site of many significant battles. Recent excavations have unearthed no less than 26 layers of ruins.

Hotel: Nof Ginosar Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Ginosar

We begin the day at the archaeological site of Tel Dan, the most northerly Israelite city, where a remarkable Bronze Age mud-brick gateway still stands in place, surrounded by verdant countryside. We continue to Tel Hazor, once the largest fortified city in the country. Its surviving ramparts are considered to be the foremost examples of their type in the region. After lunch by the Sea of Galilee, we continue to Belvoir Crusader Fortress, one of the best preserved Crusader Fortresses in Israel. This site was a bastion of the Knights Hospitallers until it was eventually besieged and captured by Saladin’s forces in 1189. Lastly but by no means least, we view the ‘Jesus Boat’ in the grounds of the Nof Ginosar Hotel. This recovered fishing boat dates from the 1st century AD, and this is the type of vessel that Jesus and his disciples may have used.

Hotel: Nof Ginosar Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Ginosar - Tzipori - Akko

This morning we drive to Tzipori, a fortified city perched on a mound in the Netofah Valley. Thanks to extensive excavations in the area we are able to view an ancient synagogue, Jewish homes lining a cobbled street, a Roman villa, and a number of intricate 5th century mosaics, depicting images such as the famous “Mona Lisa of Galilee”. In the afternoon we continue to Akko, or Acre, on the sunny shores of Haifa Bay. Akko features in Egyptian, Biblical, Greek and Persian mythology, and is the holiest city of the Baha’i faith. We discover striking Ottoman aqueducts, medieval churches, and city walls established by Crusaders.

Hotel: Nof Ginosar Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Ginosar - Jerusalem

Today we explore the national park and Roman harbour city of Caesarea Maritima, constructed by Herod the Great.

The city was described by 1st century historian Josephus as: “adorned with the most magnificent palaces”. Among the many remnants here now are a well-preserved theater, a double aqueduct, and a limestone block on which the name of “Pontius Pilatus” is inscribed. We spend the afternoon at the Israel

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Salomons horse in Tel Meggido National Park Museum in Jerusalem, the largest museum in the country. It is here that we encounter the Dead Sea Scrolls, the oldest Biblical and extra-Biblical manuscripts known to man, which were discovered in caves on the west bank of the River Jordan in the late 1940s. A thrilling glimpse into Israel’s holy past.

Hotel: Mount Zion Boutique Hotel & Suites Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Jerusalem

We spend a full day on foot in Jerusalem – the perfect opportunity that takes us right to the heart of this city. Our walking tour takes us along the Via Dolorosa, believed to be the path that Jesus walked on the way to his crucifixion, and to the medieval Lions’ Gate, a part of the old city walls. It is believed that its name does not derive from the big cats on its crest – these are, in fact, leopards – but the dream of King Selim I, in which his promise to build a city wall spared him from being torn apart by lions. Other stops include Bethesda Pool in the city’s Muslim quarter, which fits the description of a pool in the Gospel of John, and is widely considered an ancient place of healing. After lunch we visit the Rockefeller Archaeological Museum, home to aftifacts dating from prehistory to the Ottoman period.

Hotel: Mount Zion Boutique Hotel & Suites Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Jericho

We drive to Jericho this morning, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, and visit the Herodian Winter Palace complex. Dating from the Second Temple period of 516 BC to 70 AD, here we find evidence of luxury on a grand scale, with traces of swimming pools, bathhouses, orchards and gardens – and three palace buildings of increasing magnificence.

We continue by cable car to the Monastery of the Mount of Temptation, said to have been built on the spot at which Satan tempted Jesus during his 40-day fast. Prepare for incredible views across the Dead Sea and Jordan Valley. In the afternoon we explore the remains of the settlement of Tel es-Sultan, site of Kathleen Kenyon’s excavations, where the world’s oldest city wall still stands, alongside the Tower of Jericho. Our day draws to a close at Hisham’s Palace, a significant early Islamic construction, where we find the famous “Tree of Life” mosaic in the audience room of the bathhouse.

Hotel: Mount Zion Boutique Hotel & Suites Meals: All meals included

www.andantetravels.com/isr

Scenic view of the Masada stronghold

Day Eight | Dead Sea - Jerusalem

Today we begin with an ascent to Masada, a rugged Herodian fortress high up on the isolated cliffs of the Judaean Desert.

According to ancient sources, the defenders of this fortress committed mass suicide rather than surrender to the Romans in AD 73. This incredible site is one of Israel’s foremost attractions, and achieved World Heritage status in 2001. We continue to En Gedi National Park, with its beautiful oasis – the biggest in Israel – and diverse plant and animal species.

Keep your eyes peeled for the elegant Nubian Ibex.

We round off our day with a visit to the remote desert caves of Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, before returning to Jerusalem for a convivial farewell dinner.

Hotel: Mount Zion Boutique Hotel & Suites Meals: All meals included

Day Nine| Jerusalem - Dead Sea

After a hearty breakfast we travel to the archaeological site of Tel Lachish, a huge Near East city with commanding views over the hills and coastal plains. Tel Lachish features in the Book of Joshua and the ground here has yielded scores of LMLK seals, ancient Hebrew seals dating from the reign of King Hezekiah. We continue to the walled city of Tel Beer Sheba, where we enjoy a picnic lunch amid the ruins of the national park. The most important discovery here was a horned animal altar, the first unearthed in Israel. We stop at the mysterious prehistoric site of Tel Arad, with its altars and standing stones, before continuing to the glittering Dead Sea where, if we have time, we may “swim” atop its famous hypersaline waters.

Hotel: David Dead Sea Resort & Spa Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

that housed within this church is the site of Jesus’s crucifixion, as well as his empty tomb, now encased within an 18th century shrine. Afterwards Dr. Solomon will give us a private behind the scenes tour of the excavations at the Western Wall tunnels and the Roman Odeon. From here we walk to the ruins of the City of David in the Arab neighborhood of Wadi Hilweh, a site of Canaanite and Iron Age remains, commonly identified as the urban center of old Jerusalem. Here we view Warren’s Shaft – thought to have once supplied the city with water – and the Pool of Siloam, a rock-cut pool fed by Gihon Spring which has been in use since around 700 BC. This afternoon we visit Bethlehem and the Herodium, a well-excavated hill on which we find a tomb said to be that of King Herod, as well as the remains of a palace, bathhouse, theater and synagogue.

Hotel: Mount Zion Boutique Hotel & Suites Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Depart Tel Aviv

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Ten | Jerusalem

As our exploration of Jerusalem concludes today, we are accompanied by Dr. Avi Solomon, a leading Israeli archaeologist. Beginning with a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the holiest site of the Christian faith, it is believed

Boat on the Sea of Galilee

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jordan

Petra & the Desert Fortresses

30th April - 9th May 2019 | Guaranteed: 8th - 17th October 2019 | 10 Days from $3,795 (single supplement $575) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

NEW Additional departure in April GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

The Treasury of Petra

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othing can prepare you for Petra: the scale, the colors and the grandeur. Lively, cosmopolitan and rich, with goods from every corner of the known world, Ancient Petra was an extraordinary city. Its streets were swathed in a fusion of Nabataean, and Classical architecture — elaborate tombs, colonnaded streets and temples carved into the red sandstone.

Petra’s tombs and temples are only a fraction of Jordan’s story. We explore traces of biblical tribes, Roman legions, Christian crusaders, and Neolithic villages in this promised land of archaeology and fascinating history.

highlights

Salt formations from the Dead Sea

guide lecturers Nick Jackson graduated in archaeology from the prestigious Institute of Archaeology UCL in London, and later took up a research post at the University of Cambridge. Nick is an archaeologist and historian with over 20 years of excavation and guiding experience for Andante. His varied archaeological excavations in the Middle East have focused on the Bronze Age, specifically the developments in the region of the late 2nd Millennium - a crucial period for the birth of Israel archaeology.

Tour the exhibits at Amman’s Archaeological Museum Visit Jerash, the best preserved Roman town in the east Spend two days in the evocative rock-cut city of Petra Cruise Wadi Rum’s striking desert scenery in 4x4s Discover the mighty crusader castle at Kerak

special access

On our second day we enjoy a unique tour and introduction to the British Institute in Amman — an opportunity to see the work that British archaeology does abroad. The research carried out at the Institute is varied, ranging from the study of Jordan’s Neolithic heritage, aerial archaeology, forced migration, as well as the history and current impacts of local and international politics.

Umm Qais Jerash

Umm al Jimal Qasr Azraq Qasr Amra Al-Kharaneh

Amman Qasr al-Abd Mount Nebo Madaba Umm al-Rasas Kerak

Jordan Beidha Petra

Wadi Rum

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Day Four | Amman

The morning is spent in Jordan’s modern capital Amman.

Here we visit the Archaeological Museum and the citadel.

The museum is home to aftifacts from archaeological sites from across the country, including the Dead Sea bronze scroll written in Aramaic characters. The citadel is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world, and we visit the ruins of the Roman Temple of Hercules and the palace of the Omayyad Caliphs. Before lunch we visit the Memorial Church at Mount Nebo. In the afternoon, we make a short drive to the early Byzantine Church of St George in Madaba, where we view the amazing 6th century mosaic map of the Holy Land depicting biblical sites of the Middle East from Egypt to Palestine. Afterwards we spend a little time in the Madaba Archaeological Park before heading back to our hotel.

Hotel: The Holiday Inn Amman or Le Grand Amman Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Umm al-Jimal

itinerary

Today we head into the eastern desert to explore the dramatic basalt city at Umm al-Jimal, even the doors are made of huge black slabs and some of them still operate! After lunch we travel on to the desert castles, Qasr Azraq, Amra and al-Kharanah, with far-reaching views over the surrounding landscape. Jordan’s desert castles were so called due to their imposing stature, but they served mainly as agriculture and trade centers, and caravan stations. Examples of both early Islamic art and architecture they represent a fascinating era in the country’s rich history.

Hotel: The Holiday Inn Amman or Le Grand Amman Meals: All meals included

Day One | Amman

Day Six | Umm al-Rasas - Kerak

Temple of Artemis, Jerash

Upon arrival into Amman, we make our way to our hotel for a much needed rest.

Hotel: The Holiday Inn Amman or Le Grand Amman Meals: Dinner or snack in hotel room (dependent on arrival time)

Day Two | Wadi Seer - Dead Sea - Amman

After a leisurely start, we head to the valley of Wadi Seet.

Here we find the remains of Qasr-al-Abd, a well-preserved Hasmonean and rare Hellenestic period Palace. Hyrcanus of Jerusalem built the palace around 200BC as part of a much larger estate, that is now covered by the village of Iraq al-Emir.

We then spend time both at and in the Dead Sea. The lowest place on earth is also the deepest hypersaline lake in the world, over nine times saltier than the ocean. This salinity has created a harsh environment so it is unsuitable for any plants of wildlife, hence its name. It is however, a unique experience to be able to ‘float’ on the Dead Sea, so we make the most of this opportunity. After our time spent here, we return to Amman.

Hotel: The Holiday Inn Amman or Le Grand Amman Meals: All meals included

We visit the church and spectacular mosaics at Umm al-Rasas.

A Roman and Byzantine site, the mosaics of the churches have fine depictions of the principal cities of the region. Before lunch we have a brief stop at a viewpoint at Wadi Mujib. On next to the mighty crusader castle of Kerak, one of the largest in the Levantine region. Overlooking the Dead Sea, it was built in 1132 as the first line of defense for the Crusader kingdom of Jerusalem. It’s position also gave control of important trade routes between Damascus, Egypt and Mecca, and of the Bedouin herders of the region.

Hotel: Mövenpick Resort Petra or Hayat Zamen Hotel & Resort Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Gadara - Jerash

We explore two Roman Decapolis cities today as our adventure continues. We start off at the ancient city of Gadara (known today as Umm Qais), which offers views over the Golan Heights and Sea of Galilee. After lunch we continue to Jerash (ancient Gerasa) for the afternoon, which is set in the pine valleys of the biblical land of Gilead, and is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the east. The architecture is particularly fine, and includes the impressive 2nd century Hadrian’s Arch, the Corinthian columns of the Temple of Artemis and the Oval Plaza - framed by a magnificent colonnade - a unique feature of the Forum.

Hotel: The Holiday Inn Amman or Le Grand Amman Meals: All meals included Neolithic site of Beidha

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Natural stone bridge and panoramic view of Wadi Rum

Day Seven & Eight | Petra

Today is the first two full days in Petra, and with the archaeological park spread across 200 square kilometers, we will easily fill out time spent here as there is much to explore.

Located among mountains and rugged desert canyons, this ancient capital of the Nabatean Arabs is carved directly into a mixture of sandstone cliff face, its colors a mixture of red, white and pink hence it is also known as the “Rose City”. We walk into the site each day, both for the sense of discovery, and to experience the famous entrance to the ravine site, the Siq. As we wander along the colonnaded streets, we take in some of the ancient city’s most significant structures, such as the worldrenowned “Treasury” (Al-Khazneh), a temple over 40 meters in height with a truly impressive ornate façade. The Nabateans, though essential nomadic, developed a sophisticated water technology, the remains of which we will also see here during our extensive visit. Led by our expert guide, there are optional climbs on both days to Nabatean ‘Monastery’ and ‘High Place’.

Alternatively, on the second day in Petra you can choose to explore more of its magnificence at your own pace.

Hotel: Mövenpick Resort Petra or Hayat Zamen Hotel & Resort Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Depart Amman

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel..

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Nine | Little Petra - Wadi Rum

This morning we will visit the Neolithic site of Beidha, where 8th Millennium BC houses can still be seen, and the painted tomb at “Little Petra” (Siq al-Bahrid). Thought to have been an important suburb of Petra the site includes temples, tombs, water channels and cisterns carved out of rock. We drive to Wadi Rum, home of the largest Roman copper mine in the empire. Here we take 4x4s through spectatular scenery, made famous by the filming of “Lawrence of Arabia”. There are also several rock art sites to be explored here. Afterwards, we head back to Amman for a farewell dinner.

Hotel: Mövenpick Resort Petra or Hayat Zamen Hotel & Resort Meals: All meals included

Ruins in the Amman citadel

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uzbekistan

Sites & Cities along the Silk Road

Guaranteed: 6th - 19th April 2019 | 5th - 18th October 2019 | 14 Days from $4,555 (single supplement $595) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed, including wine with dinner Porterage | Gratuities

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Mizdakhan cemetery at sunset, Nukus

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Oriental buildings in Khiva

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ear the footsteps of history as we explore the sites and cities of the Silk Road, which once ran all the way from China to Europe, with Uzbekistan right at its heart. The steppes, deserts, mountains and gleaming blue-tiled cities tell a story of trade and conquest. Join us on the road to Khiva, Bukhara and fabulous Samarkand; cities built to dazzle the travelers who have passed by for thousands of years.

For centuries this is where not only goods, but knowledge, ideas, and cultures crossed from East to West. Travel in the footsteps of those ancient caravans, from grassy plain to desert, voyaging from city to city, crossing Uzbekistan on an unforgettable journey.

highlights Visit UNESCO’s Samarkand, Shahrisabz and Bukhara

guide lecturers Dr. Paul Wordsworth is a Research Fellow at the University of Oxford focussing on the archaeology of the medieval Caucasus and Central Asia. He is currently directing a new archaeological project exploring the remains of a frontier city of the early Islamic Caliphate in Azerbaijan.

He has carried out extensive archaeological fieldwork in Central Asia (Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan) and received his PhD from the University of Copenhagen on medieval Central Asian trade routes and travel.

See the many ornate palaces in the city of Khiva Observe avant-garde art at the renowned Savitsky Art Museum Enter the magnificent Bibi-Khanym Mosque Sample Uzbekistan’s incredible regional cuisine Ayaz Kala Fortress Toprak Kala Chilpik Dakhma Khiva

Nukus

fabulous samarkand

Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. It was a central point of trade across the region and has passed through all manner of incarnations — ruled not only by Ghengis Khan, it also came under the control of Alexander the Great in 329 BC. The ancient city of Samarkand was a mixture of cultures and religions. Our tour includes a visit to the archaeological site of Afrasiyab, which contains numerous indications of a diverse, medieval society that was once here.

Uzbekistan

Tashkent Shahrukhiyah

Paykent Bukhara Samarkand Shahrisabz

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itinerary Day One | Tashkent

Upon arrival in Tashkent, we transfer to our hotel with time to rest before lunch. During the afternoon we visit the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan. Founded in 1876, and formerly known as the Lenin Museum, this is one of the oldest institutions in Central Asia, and boasts an epic assortment of aftifacts. Highlights include the remains of a prehistoric man dating from 1.5 million years BC, as well as significant statues and reliefs from the country’s Buddhist period. This evening we enjoy a welcome meal together.

Hotel: International Hotel Meals: Lunch & dinner included

Day Two | Tashkent

This morning we drive through countryside to the ancient settlement of Shahrukhiyah, an important Silk Road city sacked by the Mongols in the 13th century, and now concealed beneath a verdant mound. We return to Taskhent for a walking tour of the Old Town this afternoon, exploring ancient mausoleums and beautiful mosques, including Tillya Sheikh.

We will also take in remnants of the city’s Soviet past.

Hotel: International Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Tashkent - Nukus

This morning we fly west to Nukus, located in the Karakalpakstan Republic. Upon arrival we make our way to Gyaur Kala, the “Fortress of Infidels”, a settlement established at the time of the First Persian Empire. Its surviving mud brick walls and towers are indicative of Zoroastrian inhabitants.

After lunch we continue to the medieval city of Mizdakhan, site of Uzbekistan’s oldest necropolis, first founded some 2,000 years ago. Still a place of pilgrimage and mysticism, the legends surrounding this settlement include that of the “World Clock”, a building that is said to shed just one brick a year. According to legend, when the last brick falls, the end of the world begins.

Hotel: Jibek Joly Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Nukus - Khiva

In the morning we visit the world-renowned Savitsky Art Museum, which hosts the world’s second largest collection of Russian avant-garde art which hangs alongside that of Socialist Realism. There are also archaeological and ethnographic objects on display. Next we travel south along the Amu River to the remote ruined tepe of Chilpik Dakhma, a Zoroastrian “Tower of Silence” used in funerary “sky burial” rituals until the Arab invasion of the 7th century AD. Our final destination for the day is Khiva, an important Silk Road city famous for its role as a slave trading post.

Hotel: Orient Star Khiva Hotel Meals: All meals included

Traditional street market

Day Five | Khiva

The sixth day of our trip begins with an excursion to the mighty fortresses of Ayaz Kala. Dramatically situated on a hilltop overlooking the Kyzylkum Desert, and erected to protect local inhabitants against nomadic attacks, these ancient strongholds were largely destroyed at the time of the Arab invasions. We continue to the abandoned city of Toprak Kala, a complex built by the slave-owning Khorezm, with an extended line of crumbling walls that is visible for miles around. Built in the 3rd century AD, its remains include the residences of Khorezm governors, workshops which formerly manufactured bows, and a palace with three imposing towers.

Hotel: Orient Star Khiva Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Six| Khiva

Today we step into a world of “Arabian Nights”, spending a whole day exploring Khiva on foot to enjoy its narrow alleys, graceful minarets and thriving markets. Although it was virtually destroyed by Genghis Khan, much of it what was subsequently rebuilt is impressive. The first of Uzbekistan’s sites to achieve World Heritage status, the city still boasts its original defensive walls and gates, as well as a wealth of ornate mosques and mausoleums. This evening we dine besides Lake Kharrat and watch the sun set over the Kyzylkum Desert.

Hotel: Orient Star Khiva Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Khiva - Bukhara

We take a long drive through the Karakum Desert, with a brief stop en-route at the widest expanse of the Amu Darya (River Oxus) to see how its waters have been diverted by the Soviets, causing the Aral Sea to dramatically recede. We arrive at Bukhara mid-afternoon, allowing time to visit the beautifully located Samani and Chashma Ayub mausoleums, and the Bolo Khauz Mosque before we check-in to our next hotel.

Hotel: Zargaron Plaza Meals: Breakfast, boxed lunch & dinner included Handmade traditional knotted silk rugs

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Ruins of the ancient Toprak Kala fortress

Day Eight | Bukhara

Today is all ours to wander brilliant Bukhara, long a great oasis of Central Asia. Formerly part of the Persian Empire, the city was seized by the Samanids in 903 AD, and went on to become a significant center for intellectualism in the Islamic world.

As part of our tour we visit the Po-i-Kalyan religious complex, an impressive collection of sacred buildings, so transcendent that not even Ghengis Khan could bring himself to destroy it.

Tonight we enjoy a traditional folk show before having dinner.

Hotel: Zargaron Plaza Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Bukhara

We visit the site of one of Bukhara’s predecessors today — the ruined city of Paykent. After a picnic lunch at the Paykent Museum we return to Bukhara to visit the Mausoleum of Ismail Samani, a fine example of Samanid architecture, and the Bolo Haus Mosque, as well as other places of interest as we walk back to our hotel.

Hotel: Zargaron Plaza Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Ten | Bukhara - Samarkand

Today we follow the Silk Road route to Samarkand, an extended drive east across the scenic plains of central Uzbekistan. On the way we stop at Rabat-i Malik, an 11th-century caravanserai with an intricate Persian façade matching those found on palace walls at Persepolis.

Hotel: Grand Samarkand Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Samarkand

Day Twelve | Samarkand

This morning we switch to smaller vehicles, travelling via the Takhta Karcha Pass to the turquoise-domed city of Shahrisabz, ancient birthplace of Amir Temur (Tamerlane). Legend states that the city was destroyed by the Khan of Bukhara when his favorite horse died from exhaustion on the steep ascent to the gates. What remains today are the looming towers and delicate mosaics of Tamerlane’s stupendous 14th-century Ak-Saray Palace (or White Palace), and the Dorus Saodat, an outstanding example of Khwarezmian architecture.

Hotel: Grand Samarkand Meals: All meals included

Day Thirteen| Samarkand - Tashkent

We begin our last full day by exploring more of central Samarkand, first visiting the restored Gur-i-Amir Mausoleum complex where Tamerlane was buried. We continue on to the enormous Bibi-Khanym Mosque, with its magnificent columns, portals and minarets – a grand site established during the reign of Tamerlane. After lunch we return to Tashkent by high-speed train and upon our arrival we enjoy a farewell dinner.

Hotel: International Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen | Depart Tashkent

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Karakum desert

We wake in fabulous Samarkand, a principal and prosperous city on the Silk Road route, and prepare ourselves for a full day of dazzling discoveries. Among today’s many highlights is the Ulugh Beg Observatory, a 15th century marvel of astronomical research which was unearthed in 1908. Ulugh Beg is widely considered to be one of the finest historical observatories in the Islamic world. Afterwards we’ll explore the stunning necropolis at Shah i Zinda, which is a series of grand palatial tombs. On to Afrasiyab in the Zerafshan Valley, here we find Samarkand’s oldest archaeological site, once the location of a Samanid palace, and now linked to an illuminating museum.

We also admire Registan Square, an impressive public square bordered by three stunning madrasahs, or Islamic schools. A breath-taking monument to power and learning.

Hotel: Grand Samarkand Meals: All meals included

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sri lanka 2nd - 15th November 2019 | 14 Days from $6,345 (single supplement $1,345) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed, including wine with dinner Porterage | Gratuities

Buddha Statues at the Golden Temple in Dambulla

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mall wonder that Sri Lanka is home to some of the finest World Heritage Sites, with landmark monuments and ancient ruined cities that still stand in homage to the island’s past civilizations and cultures, their unique aftifacts and archaeological treasures. Join us on this trip of a lifetime as we learn more about one of the earliest great Buddhist kingdoms, explore ethereal temples and shrines, and catch a glimpse of the fascinating wildlife.

highlights Discover no less than six awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites Climb Kasayapa’s citadel of Sigiriya and enjoy unforgettable views Witness the unique evening ‘puja’ ceremony at the Temple of the Tooth

Sigiriya Rock

guide lecturers Prof. Bilinda Devage Nandadeva Professor Nandadeva retired from the Fine Arts department of the University of Kelaniya after nearly 40 years, where he taught Art History and Historic Preservation. Widely experienced in the field of Sri Lankan art and architecture, his fellowships and awards range from London (Courtauld Institute), to Japan, a number of institutions in the USA, including the Smithsonian, and to Thessaloniki in Greece and Australia (Canberra University). Among his qualifications he holds a PhD in Art Conservation which specialized in materials and techniques of wall paintings in Sri Lanka (Kandyan schools of mural painting).

Enjoy a free day in Nuwara Eliya, a jewel of a hill station in the cool uplands Share the road with working elephants as you journey through tropical countryside

golden temple of dambulla

Dambulla cave temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A place of worship dating back to the 1st century BC, this cave monastery, with its five sanctuaries, is the largest, best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The Buddhist mural paintings (covering an area of 2,100m2) are of particular importance, as are the 157 statues of the Lord Buddha. The statues and art found throughout are truly impressive.

Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka

Habarana Polonnaruwa

Aluvihare Kandy

Nuwara Eliya

Colombo

Ambalangoda Galle

Weligama

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Day Five | Habarana

The story of King Kasyapa’s retreat to his palace, built 180 meters above the surrounding forest on the rock of Sigiriya, is filled with intrigue, murder, revenge and suicide. It took him seven years to build his citadel and its spectacular gardens, pools and pavilions, designed to blend with the natural landscape. This extraordinary complex is no less beautiful today than it was in the 5th century BC. We shall climb Kasyapa’s citadel slowly, stopping to enjoy the water garden terraces, the famous “Sigiriya maidens” painted in a rock gallery, the magnificent views and visit the Sigiriya Archaeological Museum. After a full morning of activity, we have the afternoon at leisure. Choose to take the time to continue exploring or unwind before dinner this evening.

Hotel: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Habarana

Avukana Buddha

itinerary Day One | Colombo

On arrival in Colombo, we transfer to our hotel and take time to relax ahead of meeting for dinner in the evening.

Hotel: Galle Face Hotel Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Colombo

Our day begins at the Gothami Temple which houses beautiful wall paintings that intricately and vibrantly depict the life of Buddha. In the afternoon we visit the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, where, according to legend, the Buddha converted the earliest inhabitants of Lanka to Buddhism. This temple is also renowned for its richly decorated walls, which include amazing murals painted by two well-known modern artists, Solias Mendis and George Keyt.

Hotel: Galle Face Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Colombo - Anuradhapura

Today we leave Colombo, arriving in Anduradhapura for lunch. This area boasts a wealth of vocative sites and, this afternoon, we pay a visit to Mihintale, which was the site of the island’s first Buddhist sermon and first conversion of a long line of kings. Later, we transfer to our hotel.

Hotel: Palm Garden Village Hotel Meals: All meals included

We will spend the full day at the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa. A series of great builders – including Vijayabahu I (1055-1110), builder of the first Temple of the Tooth, and Parakramabahu (1153-86), who built a vast number of dams, reservoirs and canals – have provided us with a magnificent, archaeologically rich site that boasts acres of unique architectural elements, delicately engraved columns and wonderful friezes. A tour of the new site museum will end this fabulous and interesting day.

Hotel: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Habarana

This morning we will visit the huge Avukana Buddha, which stands at over 40 feet tall, and the massive 4th century BC reservoir at Kala Wewa, built by King Datusena in 307 BC. We then continue to the great Golden Temple of Dambulla.

The easy ascent rewards us greatly as we will be able to stand before magnificent cave temples that are boldly decorated with paintings and effigies carved out of the living rock. The remainder of our afternoon will be spent at leisure. For those of us who have always wanted to see elephants in the wild there is the opportunity to take an optional safari this afternoon.

Alternatively, you could choose to join a guided walk in the nearby nature reserve to study medicinal plants and wildlife.

Hotel: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Anuradhapura - Habarana

Our day begins at the ancient city of Anuradhapura, royal capital from the late 5th century BC, until it was sacked and burned by Chola Tamils in 993. The power of the Sinhalese kings was then transferred to Polonnaruwa. It will take us the most of the day to examine the remains of 15 centuries of continuous occupation. As we stroll among the ancient buildings we will be awed by the huge dimensions of the three dagobas of the oldest periods and charmed by the unique architecture and moonstone thresholds of its monasteries and temples. We will also visit the site museum, which displays the sculptures, bas-reliefs and other precious aftifacts from the site.

Hotel: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana Meals: All meals included Temple of the Tooth

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Tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya

Day Eight | Habarana - Kandy

En route to Kandy we will stop to visit Aluvihare, the site where the Buddhist doctrine Tripitaka was finally written down on talipot palm leaves. After viewing the cave temple’s graphic depictions of what awaits sinners, we have arranged an informal discussion about Sri Lankan Buddhism with the chief monk of this important temple. We will also visit a spice garden and stop for lunch at a restaurant created by a popular folk artist. Touring continues in Kandy at the Anglican Cathedral. This evening we will visit the Temple of the Tooth at the time of the puja, or prayer offerings.

Hotel: Mahaweli Reach Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Kandy

Today begins at the three temples of the Kandyan era: Gadaladeniya Viharaya, with its strong southern Indian influences reminiscent of the Hindu art of Vijayanagar, Lankatilaka Viharaya, and finally Kataragama Devale, which is famed for its carved wooden pillars. We return to Kandy to visit a batik workshop and then have time at leisure ahead of meeting for dinner in the evening.

Hotel: Mahaweli Reach Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Kandy - Nuwara Eliya

Before leaving Kandy, we visit the lovely Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, home to more than 4,000 species including orchids, palm trees and plants used for medicinal purposes. Our drive to Nuwara Eliya is along the edge of a lush highland landscape carpeted with verdant tea estates. We will stop to sample the famed Ceylon teas and learn the secrets of fermenting and processing the tea leaves. Tonight, will be spent in Nuwara Eliya, a former British hill station.

Hotel: Araliya Green Hills Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Nuwara Eliya

Today is your own to relax in the ‘cool’ climate of Nuwara Eliya. Perhaps take a stroll in Victoria Park, home to a large variety of plants, trees and several rare bird species, and enjoy relaxing at one of the many cafés and restaurants in the town.

Hotel: Araliya Green Hills Hotel Meals: Breakfast & dinner included

Day Twelve | Nuwara Eliya - Galle

On our journey to Galle today we will stop at Mulkirigala Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple built on a 205-meter high natural rock. Afterwards, on arrival in Galle we’ll check into our hotel.

Hotel: Heritance Ahungalle Meals: All meals included

Day Thirteen | Galle

Today, we will visit the Martin Wikramasinghe Folk Museum for an excellent overview of traditional life in Sri Lanka. We then tour the historical center of Galle, including its ramparts and fort, as well as the National Marine Museum and the Marine Archaeological Project. We continue with a visit to the fishing village of Weligama to see a Megalith carved with a figure identified as Kushta Raja, the ‘leper king’, and the Purvarama Monastery, whose image house is considered to be one of the jewels of Buddhist painting. Later, we’ll experience a private performance of the Kolam Dance.

Hotel: Heritance Ahungalle Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen | Depart Galle

On our way back to Colombo, we stop at Ambalangoda, known for its wooden mask craftsmen. Afterwards, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Galle Extension If you wish to stay in Sri Lanka a little longer, we offer a further three nights at the Heritance Ahungalla Hotel on a half board basis. An ideal opportunity to relax and unwind before your return flight to the UK. £355 (single room supplement £195)

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china

Beyond the Great Wall

11th - 26th October 2019 | 16 Days from $7,303 (single supplement $1,495) What’s Included Internal flights | Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums Meals as detailed, including wine with dinner Porterage | Gratuities

The outstanding Great Wall of China

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hina has a remarkable history, spanning back over 10,000 years and remnants of its glorious past can be seen at every turn. We journey from Beijing to Shanghai, through vast and varied landscapes and archaeology. From Buddhist temples to the gargantuan monuments of imperial ambition, to lesser-known prehistoric settlements, this is the story of China through the ages. The great sites we see are put into their historical context.

highlights In the company of our expert guide, this stimulating destination will be brought to life as we discover China’s most famous sites View the underground army of the life-sized Terracotta Warriors one of the greatest archaeological discoveries in the world Luoyang - the cradle of Chinese civilization - home to Buddhist temples from the 1st century at the outstanding Longmen Grottoes Explore the incredible Garden of the Humble Administrator - one of Southern China’s finest gardens

The Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang

guide lecturers Dr. Kim Hunter Gordon is a historian of late imperial and modern China with an expertise in traditional Chinese theater.

He previously worked as a journalist for five years in Beijing and Shanghai before undertaking long term fieldwork and mentorship in Nanjing studying kunqu, a form of indigenous theater and singing practice.

Jesse Watson is a historian who specializes in the cultural and political history of China’s early empires.

He is currently a Ph.D. candidate in the department of History at the University of California, Berkeley where he teaches courses in the history of China, with a particular focus on the early period.

Visit the fascinating Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center, which exhibits posters from the Maoist period of communist China

Forbidden City

Beijing

China

the great wall - huanghua section

The critical importance of Huanghua increased when the Ming emperors began to build their ancestral tombs nearby. The task of constructing a wall on the difficult terrain was assigned to the fastidious general Cai Kai in 1580, whose extreme diligence delayed the completion of the project, he was duly beheaded for missing his deadline. The quality of Cai Kai’s construction is such that the wall here has escaped the intrusive restoration that mars other sections.

Terracotta Army Xi’an Sanxingdui Chengdu

Luoyang

Suzhou

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Shanghai

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layout of these tombs made this site an obvious candidate for World Heritage status, which it achieved in the year 2000. In the afternoon we visit a site which not only holds UNESCO status, but the title of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: the iconic Great Wall, an unparalleled feat of Chinese engineering.

While the original wall dates back to the 2nd century BC, the majority of the Great Wall was built and extended during the Ming Dynasty in order to keep warring Mongol nomads at bay. We experience the wonders of the wall for ourselves while walking on one of its more accessible sections.

Hotel: Novotel Xin Qiao Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Beijing - Luoyang

Giant Panda eating Bamboo, Chengdu

itinerary

We bid farewell to the grandeur of Beijing and travel by bullet train to Luoyang, a city in central China located at the confluence of the Yellow and Luo Rivers. Luoyang was considered the geographic center of China, and is home to a vast wealth of archaeological findings. Excavations here have uncovered ritual sites dating back as far as Neolithic times – and many fascinating traces of Luoyang’s influential past remain. This afternoon we visit the Ancient Tomb Museum.

Hotel: Mudu Lee Royal International Meals: All meals included

Day One | Beijing

Arrive in Beijing and transfer to our hotel where you can unwind. Later, we head out for a visit to the Forbidden City - or Palace Museum - China’s biggest and most beautifully preserved collection of imperial buildings. This site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1987 thanks to its stunning architecture and historic significance. We can view collections that showcase paintings, ceramics and even timepieces here. Beijing is home to six World Heritage Sites and it’s a great starting point for us on this tour.

Hotel: Novotel Xin Qiao Hotel Meals: Lunch & dinner included

Day Two | Beijing

This morning we touch on recent history at Tiananmen Square. We will then continue with a visit to the National Museum of China, with collections ranging from the very early traces of humans dating 1.7 million years ago to the end of the Qing Dynasty. After lunch, we view the Temple of Heaven, a vast ritual site constructed by the Yongle Emperor.

Hotel: Novotel Xin Qiao Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Beijing

Our discovery of Beijing continues this morning as we wander the expansive lakes and gardens of the Summer Palace, the largest royal park in China; a must-see destination for any visitor to the capital. Though the origins of the park date back to the 12th century, the grounds were expanded significantly in the 1700s, when around 100,000 laborers were called in to enlarge Kunming Lake. The park’s hills and views offer a dazzling respite from the bustle of the city. Later today we travel to Fahai Temple at the foot of Cuiwei Mountain, a destination famed for its vivid frescoes from the Ming Dynasty, which cover an area of over 230 meters.

Hotel: Novotel Xin Qiao Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Beijing

We explore the Tombs of the Ming Dynasty this morning, final resting place of thirteen emperors, including the famous Yongle, whose marble mausoleum lies just beyond the ‘Gate of Paradise’. The lavish stonework, dragon motifs, and feng shui

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Watchtower of the Forbidden City, Beijing

Day Six| Luoyang

After breakfast, we visit the Longmen Grottoes, home to almost 100,000 Buddhist statues, which stand in a terrain of artificial caves and limestone cliffs. These remarkable statues differ wildly in size, ranging from just an inch to up to 17 meters high, and the collection is thought to have first been established at the time of the Northern Wei Dynasty (from 493 to 534 AD). In the afternoon, we pay a visit to the historical Luoyang Museum and spend time here exploring its vast collections. This site is home to cultural relics and interesting aftifacts that reflect the area and its heritage.

Hotel: Mudu Lee Royal International Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Luoyang - Xi’an

Our bullet train will whizz us to Xi’an this morning, which is one of the oldest cities in China. This destination is a melting pot of culture and religion, and there is much to discover here.

Our afternoon will be spent at leisure and we can experience the city at our own pace. Wander around the Islamic Quarter, with its Great Mosque and Bazaar, or walk the city walls, an imposing structure that was first established back in the Ming Dynasty.

Hotel: Grand Mercure Xi’an on Renmin Square Meals: Breakfast & dinner included

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Day Eight | Xi’an

Following breakfast we spend a morning with the jewel in Xi’an’s crown: the 2,200-year-old Terracotta Army. The 8,000 statues displayed here were crafted for Emperor Qin Shi Huang in order to guard his tomb, and were discovered as part of a vast necropolis by farmers in 1974. We view the assembled ranks and other elements of the monumental tomb complex.

After lunch we continue to Banpo Neolithic Village and Museum. In 1953, the remains of a 6,500-year old settlement were unearthed here by local workers. The excavations that followed formed the first large-scale archaeological dig of the People’s Republic of China. We view the findings from this 20-acre site, which provide significant evidence of a society led exclusively by women. This evening we enjoy a traditional Chinese dumpling meal.

Hotel: Grand Mercure Xi’an on Renmin Square Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Xi’an

Today we visit the Han Jingdi Tomb, the final resting place of Emperor Jingdi (188-141 BC), which is all too often overlooked and considered to be an underrated highlight of the area. Here, we view some of the 50,000 impressive terracotta figurines that have so far been discovered inside of the tomb’s numerous pits, with likenesses including those of eunuchs, domesticated animals, servants and also women on horseback. We complete out day with a visit to the Shaanxi Provincal History Museum, which presents thousands of years of Chinese history.

Hotel: Grand Mercure Xi’an on Renmin Square Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Xi’an - Chengdu

We travel by high speed train to Chengdu this morning, capital of Sichuan Province and a hub for the entire southwestern region. After lunch we explore the 3,000-year-old settlement at Jinsha, near the Modi River. Accidentally discovered in 2001, excavations here have uncovered exquisite jade, ivory and gold aftifacts, and evidence of a once flourishing civilization.

Hotel: Buddha Zen Hotel or similar Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Chengdu

Our day begins at the enigmatic site of Sanxingdui, where two enormous sacrificial pits were discovered less than a century ago, a direct link back to a culture of around 3,000 to 5,000 years old. A huge museum showcases the hoards of antiquities so far found here, including an amazing bronze statue of a tree measuring almost four meters high. While in Chengdu we have the opportunity to visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, or alternatively, choose to visit the Sichuan Provincial Museum or visit the tea houses in People’s Park.

Hotel: Buddha Zen Hotel or similar Meals: All meals included

Day Thirteen| Suzhou

Today begins with a visit to the strikingly modern Suzhou Museum, noted for its world-class store of Chinese arts, crafts, and calligraphy, including Ming and Qing Dynasty paintings.

The perfect setting for an exceptional collection. There are few garden names more evocative than the Garden of the Humble Administrator and we spend ample time here wandering around this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site - a title it received in 1997. Widely considered to be one of southern China’s finest gardens, it showcases a range of lovely pavilions, islets and bamboo groves, and a peaceful expanse of water acts as its central focal point. It is the largest and perhaps the most famous in all of Suzhou.

Hotel: Scholar Boutique Hotel or similar Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen | Suzhou - Shanghai

For the last part of our tour we travel to the city of Shanghai on China’s east coast. Thanks to its location at the mouth of the Yangtze river, Shanghai has been an international hub for foreign trade since it was established as a treaty port in 1842, its population burgeoning in the following decades with the mass arrival of refugees during the Taiping Rebellion. Now a modern marvel of architectural, colonial and contemporary, Shanghai is currently the world’s most populous city with over 24 million inhabitants. Before checking in to our hotel, we take a scenic river boat trip along the Bund — the city’s historic quay along the Hunagpu River — to view its 19th century trading houses from the water.

Hotel: Equatorial Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Fifteen | Shanghai

We make the most of our last full day in China by heading to the leafy boulevards of the French Concession. The Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center located here exhibits a collection of objects which reveal the more recent history of communist China - a thought-provoking insight into life under Chairman.

From this fashionable part of the city we have the afternoon free to spend at leisure. Enjoy a walking tour with your guide, or discover other highlights of this vibrant city at your own pace. As the day draws to a close, we come together as a group for a farewell dinner, a chance to share our thoughts on this incredible country.

Hotel: Equatorial Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Sixteen | Depart Shanghai

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Twelve | Chengdu - Suzhou

We catch a flight from Chengdu to Suzhou. Located in southern Jiangsu Province, in the center of the Yangtze Delta, over 40% of the area is covered by water and is therefore home to a vast number of pond, lakes and canals. Known as “heaven on earth”, Suzhou was for centuries the most prosperous non-capital city of the empire. After lunch we have some free time to explore at our own pace.

Hotel: Scholar Boutique Hotel or similar Meals: All meals included

The Garden of the Humble Administrator, Suzhou

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japan

A Land of Contrasts

9th - 23rd November 2019 | 15 Days from $9,908 (single supplement $1,875)

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

What’s Included Internal train travel | Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Osaka Castle

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Tokyo skyline with Mount Fuji and Sky Tree

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n the far side of the world, the closed society of pre-19th century Japan was the last major civilization to engage with the rest of the world. Nevertheless, Japanese culture and history have had an extraordinary influence on the progress of the modern world. The archaeological sites of Japan are still difficult to visit, especially as an independent traveler. We are lucky to have an expert in Japanese archaeology leading this tour, giving us access to remarkable monuments from the fiery ceramics of the Jomon Neolithic to temples and Shoguns’ castles. We traverse the astonishingly diverse landscapes in search of the unique archaeology, history and culture of Japan.

highlights Visit Honshu Island’s largest crater lake, Lake Towada

guide lecturers Dr. Ilona Bausch studied Jomon archaeology with professor Tatsuo Kobayashi at Kokugakuin University, read for her PhD at Durham University under the supervision of professor Gina Barnes.

Ilona has lectured at Leiden University, Netherlands and the University of Tokyo.

She is researching the earliest use of jade in Japan, China, Korea, East Siberia and is currently working on a book on Jomon ornaments. Another research interest is the history of Japanese collections in European Museums, which were founded on early Western-Japanese interactions from the 17th century onwards. Ilona is fluent in Japanese.

Travel by bullet train to Himeji Castle and to Hachinohe Pay a visit to the sobering Atomic Bomb Museum in Nagasaki Remarkable monuments - Jomon Neolithic to temples and castles

Aomori Hachinohe

See one of Japan’s greatest landmarks, Osaka Castle

Akita

Shinano River Nagaoka

japan’s diversity

The legendary Shinkansen bullet trains, transport us across vast distances, which allows us to explore Japan’s diversity in culture and cuisine. The modern skylines of the metropolitan areas such as Tokyo and Kyoto give way to remote and almost uninhabited areas, where we will find stunning temples, shrines and remains of ancient settlements.

Miyajima Himeji

Kyoto Osaka Nara

Suwako Tokyo

Japan

Imari Nagasaki

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insight into the people who constructed and once used them.

From the early to the middle phases of the late Jomon period between 2,000 - 1,500 BC, these two sizeable rings, the largest to have ever been discovered in Japan, have been the site of many an archaeological find, and are now surrounded by reconstructions of numerous period Jomon dwellings. The Oyu Stone Circle Center here contains numerous aftifacts and interesting exhibits, as well as a series of enlightening models.

After our visit here we travel on to Akita.

Hotel: Metropolitan Akita Meals: Breakfast, Bento lunch & dinner included

Day Five | Akita - Nagaoka

The wooden tower of To-ji Temple in Nara

itinerary Day One | Tokyo

Arrive in the metropolis of Tokyo and transfer to our hotel. For the remainder of the day you can take time to rest from your journey, acclimatize, explore the city at your own pace or visit a museum with our Guide Lecturer. This evening we meet as a group to enjoy our first dinner together.

Hotel: Asakusa View Hotel Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Tokyo

Tokyo will wow us today, starting with a visit to the Fukagawa Downtown Museum – an intriguing glimpse of life in the Edo era, with reconstructed streets and authentic interiors; even a reproduction of a clam peddler’s home, complete with strewn, empty clam shells. The larger Edo-Tokyo Museum is the next stop on our tour. This eye-catching building, modelled on an old storehouse, features impressive exhibitions on the history of Tokyo, and includes life-size replicas of the wooden Nihonbashi bridge, as well as a traditional Kabuki theater.

Hotel: Asakusa View Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Bento lunch & dinner included

Day Three | Tokyo - Aomori

What better way to make our exit from Tokyo than on the Shinkansen, one of the world’s fastest trains? The spotless bullet train carries us north to Aomori, on the north coast of Honshu. Here we visit the well-preserved settlement, the largest and most famous site of Sannai Maruyama, which was occupied by hunter-gatherers between 3,900 and 2,300 BC. The site was only discovered when it was surveyed in preparation for a new baseball stadium – suffice to say the local baseball games are now played elsewhere. Afterwards we drive to the serene natural landscape of Lake Towada. This is the largest crater lake of Honshu Island: lined with a deciduous forested rim, it sits atop an active volcano and is characterized by two gorgeous extended peninsulas.

Hotel: Hotel Aomori Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Aomori - Akita

Today we travel to Hachinohe which is home to the Korekawa Archaeological Museum. Within this striking modern building are hundreds of aftifacts, including lacquerware items and impressive ceramics from the Jomon period of 3,000 - 1,000 BC. Clay figurines, as well as personal ornaments found in burials from the Korekawa-Nakai and Kazahari sites — the collections here are simply fascinating. Later, ancient civilization beckons us at the mysterious Oyu stone circles, which give us a little

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We get back on the train today, for a ride to Nagaoka, a bustling university city which borders the Sea of Japan. The untamed coastline acts as our constant companion while we speed towards our destination. Our first stop here is the Niigata Prefectural Museum of History. A highly informative resource on regional anthropology, history and general local folklore, the museum documents the history of rice-making in Niigata as well as showcasing samples of the weird and wonderful Jomon Flame Pottery, for which this area is known. Further examples of these eclectic pots are to be found at the Umadaka Site Museum – which is another of today’s many highlights.

Hotel: New Otani Nagaoka Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Bento lunch & dinner included

Day Six| Nagaoka - Suwa

The Shinano River is the longest river system in Japan, draining most of Nagano and Niigata prefectures. It rises at the foot of Mount Kobushi, in the Japanese Alps of Honshu.

As we drive down part of the riverside it’s easy to see why Simon Kaner, Head of Archaeology and Heritage at the world-renowned Sainsbury Institute, has made this area a key focal point for research, with recent excavations unearthing some of the earliest examples of Jomon Flame Pottery. Our journey leads up into the Tsunan mountains, where we stop at the Tsunan Agriculture and Jomon Experience Museum “Najomon”. Afterwards our scenic journey continue to our hotel through the magnificent Japanese Alps, to the land peaks of Nagano Prefecture.

Hotel: Hotel Beniya Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Suwa

We start our day at the Togariishi Jomon site and Archaeological Museum, and anyone familiar with the Jomon era will have heard of the Tanabatake Venus, a replica of which is on display here whilst on loan to the a museum in Paris. This small clay statue is dated back to 3,000-2,000 BC, and, unlike its Greek namesake, is remarkable for having all its limbs intact.

Next we’ll visit the Suwa Grand Shrine complex, thought to be one of the oldest shrines in existence. Every six years the Ombashira (or Honored Pillars) Festival takes place here, and sees huge cedars felled and ridden down the mountains.

Thankfully this isn’t a mode of transport we’ll be using for our own descent. After lunch we’ll see more sculpted marvels have been discovered at the Shakado Jomon site, where over 1,100 figurines are now exhibited in a local museum.

Hotel: Hotel Beniya Meals: All meals included Sannai Maruyama Archaeological Site

Day Eleven | Kyoto

We explore Kyoto today, where a wealth of temples and world-class sites await. We head first for Nijo Castle, an enormous complex that boasts multiple moats and fortifications. Don’t miss the famous nightingale floors, sonamed for the bird-like noise that potential assassins may have made while attempting to sneak their way across them.

Alarms have never looked so attractive! We have free time this afternoon to take in more of the city at our leisure.

Hotel: Daiwa Royal Hotel Grand Kyoto Meals: Breakfast & dinner included

Day Twelve | Kyoto - Himeji - Hiroshima

The Buddha of Nara

Day Eight | Suwa - Nagoya - Nara

Today we return to the railway for another scenic ride, this time through the southern Alps to Nara, the ancient Heian capital of Japan. This compact city boasts no less than 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and is well worth taking some quality time to explore. We visit Nara Park, with its herds of roaming wild deer, the splendid Todaiji Temple, the biggest wooden building in the world – home to the famous Great Buddha – and Yakushiji Temple, which was built in the 7th century in a bid to heal the Emperor’s ailing wife. Its construction must have done the trick: she succeeded him as Empress Jito towards the end of the century.

Hotel: Kashihara Royal Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Nara - Osaka - Kyoto

Our adventure continues today via the amazing Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s mightiest landmarks and site of many a vital battle. The Golden Tea Room here has to be seen to be believed – a truly jaw-dropping sight. Eight floors of displays lead up to an observation deck for wonderful views of Osaka itself. The ancient tumulus clusters of Mozu-Furuichi take our interests underground this afternoon. This concentration of rounded keyhole-shaped mounds consist of graves measuring up to 500 meters in length: an awesome spectacle right in the heart of Osaka.

Hotel: Daiwa Royal Hotel Grand Kyoto Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Kyoto

We head a little way out of the city center today to the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove followed by a visit to Tenryuji Temple which is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, here you can lose yourself in its well-kept gardens. Lunch is followed by some time spent at Kinkaku-ji Temple which is one of Kyoto’s main attractions where we can admire the exteriors lacquered with pure gold leaf, and enjoy the gorgeous views reflected in the lake. We finish our afternoon taking part in an authentic tea ceremony, an important tradition in Japan.

Hotel: Daiwa Royal Hotel Grand Kyoto Meals: All meals included

We take the bullet train to the hilltop Himeji Castle complex, which has stood intact on this site for several hundred years.

Also known as the White Heron Castle, it is regarded as Japan’s most beautiful surviving castle with five of its buildings now designated as official National Treasures. We explore the castle’s sprawling site, including its maze-like paths, originally designed to befuddle potential assailants. Later we take the train to Hiroshima and hop aboard the ferry to the wonderful Miyajima Island, where deer pose tamely for tourists on paths and in doorways. The iconic Itsukushima Shrine is our main stop here – recognisable from many a book on Japan and its great structures. Look out from the shrine’s wooden boards across the water, to the shores of Hiroshima.

Hotel: Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Bento lunch & dinner included

Day Thirteen| Hiroshima - Nagasaki

This morning the train takes us to subtropical Kyushu, the seaside starting point for a scenic drive to Yoshinogari. Here we find a huge Yayoi period site in Saga, dating from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD. One of Japan’s longest moat-encircled settlements, this long-lived site shows evidence of intensive trade with the continent, and in its final stages, it may have been the seat of one of Japan’s earliest kingdoms.

Nearby Imari introduces us to Japan’s history of porcelain production – a valuable export for the country during the 17th and 18th centuries. We pay a visit to the Kyushu Ceramics Museum to view its extensive collection of old Imari and Arita wares.

Hotel: ANA Crowne Plaza Nagasaki Gloverhill Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen | Nagasaki

Today we spend a day in Nagasaki, made famous, of course, for its destruction by an atomic bomb. The city’s Atomic Bomb Museum, built on the explosion’s epicenter, is a harrowing reminder of the legacy surrounding this terrible event. After lunch, we visit Dejima, an important site as it represented the only contact with a European country during the Isolation of the Edo period from 1621-1868. We end our day with time to enjoy a leisurely walk through Chinatown, perhaps sampling some of the delicious fusion food available. From here, we can explore the rest of the city at our own leisure.

Hotel: ANA Crowne Plaza Nagasaki Gloverhill Meals: All meals included

Day Fifteen | Depart Tokyo

We fly from Nagasaki to Tokyo in the morning and then continue our onward journeys.

Meals: Breakfast included

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australia

Aboriginal Rock Art GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

16th - 27th August 2019 | 12 Days from $13,895 (single supplement $2,900) What’s Included Internal flights | Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums |Meals as detailed, including wine with dinner Porterage | Gratuities

Uluru, or Ayers Rock, in the heart of the Northern Territory

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ustralia’s first human inhabitants arrived at least 50,000 years ago. For millennia, they lived an essentially unchanging nomadic lifestyle at one with the land and vast landscapes that surrounded them. They had few possessions, built no permanent monuments or settlements, but possessed an extraordinary detailed knowledge of their land, handed down through countless generations. On this unique tour we’ll encounter this ancient people through their art, which can be found anywhere - from remote Arnhem Land to the Outback. This is a truly privileged introduction, tracing the history, myths and beliefs of one of the world’s oldest people across the vast and ever-changing landscapes of Australia.

Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr, Kakadu National Park

highlights A truly remarkable journey: a window on a hunter-gatherer culture which survived for more than 50,000 years

guide lecturers Dr. Paul Bahn is the leading expert on prehistoric rock art world-wide, and is certainly one of our bestknown archaeologists. Paul led the team which discovered the first Ice Age cave art in Britain in 2003. He is not only a leading academic but a great exponent of popular and accessible archaeology, and he has been leading tours for Andante Travels since 1997, inspiring and enthusing our travelers in the famous caves of France and Spain, in open air rock shelters in Portugal, and in Chile and Easter Island. Paul was also vice-president of the Australian Rock Art Association for eight years.

Spend two days in Kakadu National Park, a biodiverse nature reserve Stay at Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safari Lodge in Mount Borradaile, the largest Aboriginal reserve in Australia

Stand before awe-inspiring examples of ancient rock art

Davidson’s Lodge Darwin Kakadu

arnhemland safaris, mount borradaile This registered aboriginal sacred site in a remote area, nestled against the Arhemland escarpment, has a landscape of rugged ranges fringed by idyllic billabongs, flood plains, paper bark swamps and monsoonal rainforests. Still owned and managed by its traditional custodians, the Amurdak people whose occupation dates back for 50,000 years, the story of their ancestry is evident in the many tools, ceremonial grounds and rock art paintings - still being uncovered today.

Alice Springs Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Australia

Sydney

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Skyline of Sydney and the iconic Opera House

itinerary Day One | Sydney

Arriving into the city of Sydney and transfer to our hotel where you can freshen up and enjoy some free time. The afternoon can be spent either at leisure, or we’ll take a ferry ride to Taronga Zoo to view the unique wildlife that is endemic to Australia, much of which we will encounter again, depicted in rock art.

Hotel: The Grace Hotel Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Sydney

This morning we drive to the area north of Sydney for our first rock art “galleries” during a walk through the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park north of the Terrey Hills. Engravings, predominantly of fish and eels, have been made in the horizontal bedrock, reflecting the importance of the river and sea to survival here. There are also huge whale depictions, and a number of human figures. We return to the city for lunch at the top of the Sydney Tower whose revolving restaurant affords 360-degree views of this impressive harbour city. Lunch is followed by a visit to the excellent Australian Museum.

Hotel: The Grace Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Sydney – Ayers Rock

We fly from Sydney to Uluru (Ayers Rock) the most famous rock in Australia, well-known for its color changes in different light and weather conditions. Sacred to the Aboriginal people of the area, it is now a World Heritage Site. Arriving at our hotel late morning we’ll have lunch before driving to Kata Tjuta Gorge. Our walk through this valley affords views across the many domes of Kata Tjuta and out into the sacred Anangu men’s area. Our day continues in Kata Tjuta National Park where we’ll enjoy an aperitif while watching the sunset over Uluru, causing the rock to change color dramatically.

Dinner this evening is a delicious barbecue.

Hotel: Sails in the Desert Hotel Meals: All meals included

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Day Four | Ayers Rock – Alice Springs

An early start allows us to watch the sunrise, then we further explore Uluru with a walk around the base of the rock, passing sacred areas and painted panels with a wide variety of motifs.

We travel to Mutitjulu Walk where we are escorted to the waterhole followed by time to see locally-made arts and crafts at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Center. Lunch is at Curtin Springs and then we continue our journey crossing dramatic landscapes of the “red center” – passing the geographical center of this huge country before arriving at Alice Springs.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Lasseters Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Alice Springs

One of the highest concentrations of petroglyphs in the Northern Territory is in Ewaninga so this is our first visit of the day, we then we continue on to Emily Gap and Jesse Gap with paintings that tell the story of the creation caterpillars who formed this landscape. This afternoon we will enjoy a walking tour of Alice Springs Desert Park which is home to local wildlife including all manner of exotic birds and lizards.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Lasseters Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Alice Springs - Darwin

Today we leave Alice Springs and fly to Darwin the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and a former frontier outpost located on the Timor Sea. Darwin and the surrounding area are home to two national parks, Litchfield and Kakadu, the latter of which we will explore in-depth over the next two days. This evening we head to Stokes Hill Wharf for a buffet dinner cruise in Darwin Harbour whilst watching the sunset over Darwin and the surrounding areas.

Hotel: Mantra on the Esplanade Meals: Breakfast & dinner included

Day Seven | Darwin - Kakadu

Today we drive to the wild and beautiful Kakadu National Park which covers 20,000 square kilometers of landscape varying from rocky escarpment that is home to historic Aboriginal rock art dating back thousands of years, to the floodplains that are abundant with wildlife. Our visit to the park includes the Warradjan Cultural Center to view the

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Kangaroo’s in the Australian bush

informative displays depicting the traditions of the Aboriginal people in Kakadu. Before lunch we take a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise through wetlands with prolific birdlife (and crocodiles!) to spot, then after we’ll spend time at Nourlangie Rock, with many panels of very fine paintings, including some “X-ray” depictions of animals and fish.

Hotel: Mercure Crocodile Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Darwin - Sydney

Day Eight | Kakadu National Park

On this last morning of our tour we have free time in Sydney.

You could walk to the Circular Quay to take a ferry ride in the harbour which is home to the beautiful and unique Opera House and the famous bridge, or visit The Rocks Discovery Museum. The choice is yours before we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

In the morning we visit the World Heritage area of Ubirr, another prolific rock art site. Here we’ll climb up through the ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries, believed to be 20,000 years old, to the lookout for the view over the surrounding wetlands.

We join the Guluyambi Cruise along the East Alligator River during which, an Aboriginal guide will provide an insight into their culture, including local mythology, the river’s abundant food chain, as well as bush survival skills. With special permission of the local people, we are able to go ashore in Arnhem Land. We have lunch back at our hotel before visiting the Bowali Visitor Center.

Hotel: Mercure Crocodile Hotel Meals: All meals included

After our morning flight to Darwin we explore the collections in the Darwin Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. After lunch, we fly to Sydney. The rest of the day is at leisure before we meet in the evening for dinner.

Hotel: The Grace Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Twelve | Depart Sydney

Day Nine | Kakadu – Mount Borradaile

Today we transfer to Jabiru Airfield for our short charter flight to Mount Borradaile.

Hotel: Max Davidson’s Safari Lodge Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Mount Borradaile

We spend a full day exploring the rock art sites of Mount Borradaile. Some of the world’s oldest, most profuse and exceptional indigenous rock art is here, as well as a landscape which supported a hunter-gatherer lifestyle right into the 20th century. Aftifacts such as bottle glass for knapping and “dilly sticks” still lie abandoned in the rock shelters as a poignant reminder of the recent departure of those who lived this life.

Hotel: Max Davidson’s Safari Lodge Meals: All meals included

‘Caterpillar dreaming’ rock art

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mexico

The Maya

4th - 18th November 2019 | 15 Days from $5,883 (single supplement $935)

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Ruins of Palenque

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Santa Lucía Church, San Cristóbal de las Casas

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f all Mesoamerican civilizations, the Maya have enjoyed the most enduring hold on the popular imagination. For a long time, their jungle-clad ruins remained intriguing yet shrouded in mystery. However, recent progress in the decipherment of Maya writing has unlocked many of their secrets, revealing a society as complex and fascinating as their art and architecture had previously suggested. This is one of Andante’s most adventurous tours, starting with the superb museums of Mexico City, travelling via the uplands of Chiapas and along the great river Usumacinta, before heading north-east across the Yucatan peninsula. All in all, a thrilling journey through the varied and colorful landscapes of Mexico.

highlights View the Aztec Templo Mayor and Frida Kahlo’s famous Blue House Travel by boat and 4x4s to remote jungle sites

guide lecturers David Drew is an archaeologist, writer and broadcaster.

Having excavated in Peru for many years, he has been closely involved with a British NGO, the Cusichaca Trust, working with Andean farming communities to improve their agriculture through restoring ancient systems of irrigation canals and agricultural terraces.

With local people around the town of Ollantaytambo he has helped to establish a community museum of archaeology and indigenous material culture. He has made many television documentaries for the BBC, including a series transmitted in the USA by the Arts and Entertainment Channel, which followed the stories of the early adventurers who ‘discovered’ many well known sites.

Explore ‘lost cities’ with spectacular temples and palaces View the vast Maya ball-court and Sacred Cenote at Chichén Itzá Encounter enduring Maya traditions among the Chiapas communities Mexico City

bonampak

The famous Maya site of Bonampak is best known for the remarkable preservation of its vividly painted murals within the three rooms of one particular building. These depict narratives of courtly behavior and pageantry, including musicians, dancing lords, the presentation of the heir to the Bonampak throne, the meetings of dynasts from different cities alongside violent battle scenes and depictions of blood-letting and human sacrifice.

Mexico

Izamal Ek Balam Mérida Chichén Itzá Cobá Uxmal Kabah Campeche Tulum Edzna Palenque Chamula

Yaxchilán Bonampak

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Day Six | Toniná - Palenque

We drive east to Toniná, a spectacular site perched in the hills above the fertile Ocosingo valley. On the periphery of the Maya area, it seems to have been one of the longest lasting Maya cities, possessing the very latest Maya ‘Long Count’ date known, from 15 January 909 AD. Other hieroglyphic evidence points to Toniná having engaged in sporadic warfare with Palenque, some 100 kilometers to the north and the direction in which we are heading.

Hotel: Hotel Villa Mercedes Meals: Box breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included Colonial Campeche

itinerary

Day One | Mexico City

Fly into Mexico City and transfer to our hotel close to the Plaza de Armas in the Spanish Colonial center.

Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Mexico City Meals: Dinner or snack in hotel room (dependent on arrival time)

Day Two | Mexico City

The day begins with exploration of the remains of the Templo Mayor, once the sacred heart of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, combined with a visit to the excellent museum. In the afternoon we walk a short distance to the National Palace to see Diego Rivera’s magnificent murals.

Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Mexico City Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Mexico City

Most of our day will be spent at the National Museum of Anthropology, one of the finest museums in the world, with collections spanning every era of Mexico’s richly-textured past.

Having our lunch at the museum allows us to continue our visit here. Later in the afternoon we return to our hotel with some free time to relax ahead of dinner.

Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Mexico City Meals: All meals included

Day Four | San Cristóbal de Las Casas

This morning we fly south to Tuxtla Gutiérrez, on the edge of the beautiful Chiapas Highlands. Stopping for lunch in Chiapa de Corzo, we drive on to the handsome Colonial town of San Cristóbal de Las Casas, the great center of traditional Maya culture. Later in the afternoon we can take a look at the products of the many hundreds of local Maya weavers who come in here from nearby villages.

Hotel: Hotel Casa Mexicana Meals: All meals included

Day Seven| Palenque

A full day amongst the ruins of Palenque, beautifully positioned on the lower slopes of a range of jungle clad hills and with magnificent views across the floodplain of the Usumacinta River. The city possesses art and architecture of remarkable quality, most famously in the well preserved ‘Palace’ complex and the ‘Temple of the Inscriptions’, where Palenque’s greatest king, Pacal, lies buried in a massive sarcophagus. Abundant hieroglyphic texts here have been crucial in piecing together the story of Palenque’s rulers, a dynasty that lasted from c. 430 to 800 AD. Hotel: Hotel Villa Mercedes Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Bonampak - Yaxchilán

This morning we travel in 4x4s first to the famous Maya site of Bonampak, best known for the remarkable preservation of its vividly painted murals. From Bonampak we continue to the Usumacinta River and a journey by motor launch downriver to the jungle site of Yaxchilán, constructed within a horseshoe bend in the river. It is a remote and atmospheric place, many of the buildings well-preserved though devoid of some of its famous carved lintels. A number of these were removed by the British explorer Alfred Maudslay in the 1880s and are now to be seen in the ‘Mexican Gallery’ of the British Museum.

Hotel: Hotel Villa Mercedes Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Campeche

Today we drive north to the coastal city of Campeche, founded

by Spanish settlers in 1540 and with a fine Colonial center which we will explore in the afternoon.

Hotel: Hotel Plaza Campeche Meals: All meals included

Day Five | San Cristóbal de Las Casas

A full day begins with a visit to Chamula, one of the most fiercely independent of all Maya towns. Here, famously, the local community have been largely left to run their own affairs. The use of the church of San Juan is a symbol of this.

The Catholic clergy are absent most of the year and instead traditional Maya priests or shamans minister to the local population. On most days the interior of the church is packed with chanting priests and their clients. Candles flicker, pine needles cover the floor and on occasion a chicken will be sacrificed. We return to San Cristóbal for lunch with some free time to enter Santo Domingo church, stroll along the cobbled streets of the local market or visit a small new museum devoted to Maya textiles. In the early evening we visit the museum at the Casa Na Bolom, where we also have dinner.

Hotel: Hotel Casa Mexicana Meals: All meals included

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Usumacinta River

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Day Twelve | Mérida - Chichén Itza

We remain in Mérida in the morning to visit the new Mundo Maya Museum. This very good and comprehensive museum covers the history of the Yucatan from earliest times to the Colonial period. It has some splendid exhibits, such as an arresting, larger than life-size ‘chac-mool’ sculpture from Chichén Itza, depicting a reclining warrior with head twisted dramatically sideways and with a large receptacle for offerings in his belly. This afternoon we head for Izamal to visit the impressive Franciscan Monastery, built on top of a large Maya pyramid, which is most famous as the home in the 1550s and 60s of the great Spanish chronicler and extirpator of Maya ‘idolatries’, Diego de Landa.

Hotel: Hotel Villas Arqueológicas Chichén Itza Meals: All meals included

Day Thirteen | Chichén Itza

Tulum ruins by the Caribbean Sea

Day Ten | Edzna - Uxmal

We begin our day with a visit to the still remote site of Edzná.

It has a very grand plaza, a five-storey main temple complex or Acropolis and it also originally possessed a complex system of dams and canals constructed as early as 150 BC. The city endured until the time of the conquest but was then abandoned and lay undiscovered until 1907. Our next stop is Sayil, a ruined Late Classic city extensively mapped in the 1980s which led to estimates of a peak population here of some 12,000 at the city’s height around 850 AD. John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood came here and were impressed by the seemingly Old-World style and proportion of the architecture, especially the multi-roomed palace structures, their façades decorated with pillars and clusters of columns.

Before travelling on to Uxmal, we finish the day at Kabah, a small site best known for its ‘House of the Masks’ – a structure whose façade is decorated with hundreds of stone masks that probably represent the long-nosed Maya Rain God Chaak.

Hotel: Hotel Hacienda Uxmal Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Uxmal - Mérida

We devote the morning to Uxmal, especially renowned for the elegance of its architecture and the exceptional state of preservation of the buildings, commented upon by visitors from the 16th century onwards. John Lloyd Stephens was greatly impressed and felt that it formed a completely ‘new order’ of architecture, ‘not unworthy to stand side by side’ with the architectural traditions of the Old World. The tallest structure, looming above the site, is the so-called Pyramid of the Magician, built in five separate stages. But the city’s two major glories are the so-called ‘Nunnery’ quadrangle, made up of 4 rectangular range structures with multiple doorways around a central courtyard, and the magnificent House of the Governor, constructed on a broad platform and at a different angle to other structures, facing east towards the most southerly rising point of Venus as Morning Star. A recently deciphered inscription above the central doorway confirms this purposeful astronomical orientation. In the afternoon we continue to Mérida, the Yucatán’s cultural capital, where we will have some free time to investigate the city center.

Hotel: Gamma Mérida El Castellano Meals: All meals included

Today we encounter one of the most visited and impressive of all Maya cities: Chichén Itzá. It is a vast and still mysterious site where archaeological work has been ongoing for many years. We will enter early in the day to marvel at the immense Ball Court and the ‘Castillo’ or Temple Pyramid at the heart of an enormous plaza and to follow the great stone causeway to the sacred ‘Cenote’ or well. Into this natural sink hole in the limestone the Maya cast jades, precious metalwork and sacrificial victims which lay undiscovered until the early 20th century, even though the site was known and marvelled at by early Spanish visitors, including Diego de Landa. After lunch we continue to the walled city of Ek Balam, a lesser-known site, but where major discoveries have been made over the last decade or so. These demonstrate that Ek Balam was a major power in northern Yucatan in the Maya Classic period and may have had close ties to Chichén Itza. Here one can climb the steps of the largest pyramid for a marvelous view of the surrounding jungle.

Hotel: Hotel Villas Arqueológicas Chichén Itza Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen| Cobá - Tulum

We spend our morning at the ruins of Cobá, which was once a very important city. More than 30 carved stelae have been found here, some with images of Cobá’s rulers. But the limestone is very soft and very few inscriptions are readable.

Thus, the details of its history are lost to us. The site is characterized by clusters of buildings linked together by sakbes or stone causeways. At the end of one of these is the tallest Pyramid here, known locally as ‘Nohoch Mul’ or the ‘Big Hill’.

At its summit is a temple structure with a stucco image of a figure plunging to earth, known as the ‘Diving God’. Further Diving Gods are to be seen at the small walled coastal site of Tulum, which we visit in the afternoon. Tulum seems to have been an important port late in the Maya period and is described from the sea by the first Spaniards who sailed along here in 1518, just before the conquest of the Aztecs. We spend our last night here in a hotel on the beach not far from Tulum.

Hotel: Hotel Los Lirios Tulum Meals: All meals included

Day Fifteen | Depart Cancún

A leisurely morning at our beach-side hotel, before we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & light lunch included

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belize & guatemala 19th November - 1st December 2019 | 13 Days from $6,735 (single supplement $1,155) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

The ruins at Tikal

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View of the Agua Volcano outside Antigua, Guatemala

E

xplore the enduring mysteries of a magnificent civilization that arose from the impenetrable jungles of Central America.

A diverse range of landscapes await us in this part of the world. From lush jungles to the prolific soils of soaring volcanoes, powerful sunlight and plentiful water have long provided a dramatic habitat for colorful wildlife, the teeming, very colorful Maya peoples, and, over the past five centuries, Old World settlers too, both conquerors and slaves. The region’s dramatic history, vibrant colonial cities, archaeological treasures housed in museums and the stories found among ancient remains and cultures — we get to experience it all.

highlights Climb to the highest temples in Tikal at daybreak Tour the well-preserved buildings of Antigua

guide lecturers Dr Elizabeth Baquedano is a specialist in the Archaeology of Mesoamerica, and a Senior Honorary Lecturer at the Institute of Archaeology, University College London, where she is the Co-ordinator of Aztec Archaeology and Ethnohistory.

Dr Nicholas James has worked on the archaeology of American Indians for more than 35 years.

He graduated from Oxford and is now a consultant in management of historical resources, an avid exponent of extra-mural study, and a veteran leader of tours in Latin America.

Observe howler monkeys, macaws and even eagles on this trip Visit an array of enigmatic archaeological sites in glorious locations

Altun Ha

Examine amazing aftifacts at fascinating regional museums

Tikal Flores Peten

Topoxte

San Ignacio

Yaxha

Xunantunich Caracol

an evening with david sedat

David Sedat is a renowned archaeologist and the former Copán field director for the University of Pennsylvania’s Archaeological Museum. During our tour, we spend an evening with David that includes dinner at his house and a one-hour presentation on Copán’s fascinating royal tombs, which he helped excavate, as well as some of the site’s amazing, lesser-known discoveries. David will also gladly answer any questions we may have.

Belize City

Belize

Guatemala

Quirigua Copán

Antigua

Guatemala City

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Occupied for more than 2,000 years, Copán developed rapidly around AD 450, and is thought to have had a population of at least 20,000 at its peak. We wander the extensive stone ruins, viewing ancient tombs, the grand Monument Plaza, and the magnificent ball court, where an early precursor to the modern game of basketball was played – a site of great cultural and spiritual significance.

Hotel: Hotel Marina Copán Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Five | Copán - Petén

Macaw in the jungle

itinerary Day One | Guatemala City

Upon arrival in Guatemala, we transfer to our hotel in Antigua and enjoy dinner together as a group.

Hotel: Hotel Camino Real Antigua Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Antigua

Today is all ours to explore the beautiful city of Antigua, Guatemala’s vibrant capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here we receive an exciting introduction to the region, in a city renowned for its Spanish colonial buildings, and encircled by volcanoes. Today’s Antigua is the third incarnation of the city, established on this land in the 16th century after the first incarnation was uprooted by native uprisings, and the second devastated by volcanic mudflow. From markets to churches, with tales of ground-breaking earthquakes in between, we learn all about Antigua’s colorful past.

Hotel: Hotel Camino Real Antigua Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Antigua - Copán

We leave Antigua this morning for a short and scenic drive east to the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology in Guatemala City. This museum was first founded in the late 19th century, and houses one of the most important collections of pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican aftifacts in the world – over 20,000 pieces in total, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Guatemalan history. A permanent exhibit on the development of Mayan culture strengthens this fascinating overview of ancient Central America. Next, we drive to Rio Hondo for lunch and then cross the border into Honduras to arrive in Copán.

Hotel: Hotel Marina Copán Meals: All meals included

Today we head back across the border for a tour of the city of Quirigua, a Mayan archaeological site in southwestern Guatemala, best-known for its gigantic carved stelae. Once the vassal state to Copán, Quirigua came to prominence when its ruler ‘Cauac Sky’ captured his overlord, ‘18 Rabbit’. The Great Plaza here is the largest known public space in the entire Maya region. The reason behind the city’s decline remains a subject of much speculation. Later, we drive to Flores and then continue to Petén.

Hotel: Hotel Casona del Lago Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Six | Petén - Tikal

Our focus for today is nothing less than the mighty Tikal, an incomparable Maya metropolis which was occupied continuously from 800 BC to AD 900. For long periods Tikal was the most powerful political force among the Maya, boasting a lengthy list of dynastic rulers that included the revered Chak Tok Ich’aak I, or Great Jaguar Paw, whose name appears on numerous recovered ceramics and stelae. The Tikal National Park is an enormous site – its central section alone contains over 3,000 buildings – and in this full day tour we cover many of the park’s prized features, and visit the museum which offers plenty of extra historical and archaeological insight on hand to bring this ancient civilization to life.

Hotel: Hotel Casona del Lago Meals: All meals included

Day Seven| Tikal

Today, we continue our discovery of Tikal. Toucans and parrots caw from hanging vines, wild turkeys scrub around the bush, monkeys howl from the tropical canopy, and crickets vibrate in unison, while the rest of the forest’s exotic flora and fauna awakes. We take ourselves straight to the heart of this enchanting spectacle, climbing the highest jungle temple.

A welcome opportunity to imagine life as an ancient Mayan, and discover the secrets of this glorious natural habitat. We have the afternoon to relax at our hotel.

Hotel: Hotel Casona del Lago Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Copán

Our expedition is well underway today, as we explore the extensive ruined city of Copán. Though initially discovered in 1570, the ruins of Copán were not excavated until the 19th century. They are now a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and are much admired for their Hieroglyphic Stairway – upon which the longest inscribed Mayan text can still be viewed – not to mention their many incredible sculptures.

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Ancient Maya site of Copán, Honduras

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Colonial houses in Antigua, Guatemala

Day Eight | Yaxhá - Belize

This morning we drive to the once thriving city of Yaxhá, a former ceremonial center of the pre-Columbian Maya. The name of this area derives from the Mayan word for ‘bluegreen water’, and this is what we will see from the tops of the temples, as we survey a vista of rainforest and lakes. After a picnic lunch, we enjoy a boat trip to the important Mayan site of Topoxte, first discovered in 1904. We visit the archaeological ruins here, for a Middle Preclassic encounter. After our full day of exploration, we travel across the border into Belize.

Hotel: San Ignacio Resort Hotel Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Nine | Caracol

Today we venture deep into the forests to the Vacau Plateau, where the impressive Maya city of Caracol invites more ancient exploration. There is evidence of life here dating back as far as 1200 BC – with a peak population estimate of 120,000 or more.

Caracol is home to some truly awe-inspiring temples, including the ‘Canaa’ or ‘Sky Palace’, the tallest man-made structure in Belize. We get up close to a number of palaces and tombs, and learn about the city’s turbulent history as a rival to Tikal.

After a light lunch, we take a scenic route back to our hotel.

Hotel: San Ignacio Resort Hotel Meals: Breakfast, boxed lunch & dinner included

Day Ten | Xunantunich - Belize City

Following breakfast we travel to Xunantunich, with its wellknown Mayan stucco friezes depicting dancing figures, and ropes thought to signify those held by women in labor. Our next visit of the day is to the Classic period site of Cahal Pech, by the banks of the Macal River. Cahal Pech is the oldest known site in the Belize River Valley, and is thought to have been a palatial home for an elite Mayan family. Its ruins are strategically perched above the nearest town, and offer staggering views of the surroundings. We continue on to Belize City, the country’s only major urban area, where we visit the collections of the National Museum of Belize. Housed in what was once Belize’s main jail, the museum’s exhibitions include stunning examples of Mayan jade, as well as a number of recovered sculptures and ceramics.

Hotel: Radisson Fort George Hotel and Marina Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Belize City - Lamanai

Our action-packed day begins at Altun Ha, just a few miles from the Caribbean Sea, for a tour of the temples where sacrifices and blood-letting rituals were performed long ago.

Traces of Mayan mathematics and astrology also remain here for us to discover. After some thorough exploring we board a motor-launch to Lamanai (also known as the ‘Place of the Submerged Crocodile’), and cruise through acres of luxurious vegetation, teeming with birds and jungle creatures – including a part-submerged crocodile or two! Tonight we stay in the area’s delightful eco-jungle lodges, falling asleep amidst the rumor of howler monkeys and other intriguing forest noises.

Hotel: Lamani Outpost Lodge Meals: All meals included

Day Twelve | Lamanai

We’re in for a real treat today, as we wander the remote jungle remains of Lamanai, which spread along the shores of the New River lagoon. The exceptionally long and uninterrupted occupation of Lamanai from 1200 BC to the time of the conquest makes this a most unusual site to visit.

Highlights here include the extraordinary Mask Temple, decorated by a 13-foot high stone mask of a Mayan king, and the High Temple, the summit of which offers uninterrupted views across the landscape. Later on, we enjoy some free time in our jungle lodge and its gardens – the perfect spot in which to reflect on our day.

Hotel: Lamanai Outpost Lodge Meals: All meals included

Day Thirteen | Depart Belize City

We start our day with a last boat ride from Lamanai to Belize City. Back on dry land we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

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peru

Machu Picchu & the Nazca Lines

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Guaranteed: 24th April - 10th May 2019 | 18th September - 4th October 2019 | 17 Days from $8,175 (single supplement $1,495) What’s Included: Internal flights | Flight over the Nazca Lines | Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Machu Picchu

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M

achu Picchu, Cuzco, the Colonial jewel of Arequipa and the enormous, enigmatic Nazca Lines — this is the classic tour of some of Peru’s major archaeological and cultural attractions. Explore the world-famous sites of the Inca alongside the intriguing remains of their lesser-known predecessors, as we climb from the Pacific into the highlands to the ancient center of the Inca Empire. From intriguing lines in the arid coastal deserts to royal estates on the Urubamba river on our descent to the ‘lost city’ of Machu Picchu, from colonial cities to breathtaking golden aftifacts left by the earliest Andean civilizations, this is an epic adventure.

highlights Fly over the astonishing Nazca Lines Visit world-famous sites, including Machu Picchu

Bird’s eye view of the Nazca Lines

guide lecturers David Drew is an archaeologist, writer and broadcaster.

Having excavated in Peru for many years, he has been closely involved with a British NGO, the Cusichaca Trust, working with Andean farming communities to improve their agriculture through restoring ancient systems of irrigation canals and agricultural terraces.

With local people around the town of Ollantaytambo he has helped to establish a community museum of archaeology and indigenous material culture. He has made many television documentaries for the BBC, including a series transmitted in the USA by the Arts and Entertainment Channel, which followed the stories of the early adventurers who ‘discovered’ many well known sites.

Discover the Inca heartland around their capital of Cuzco Explore the amazing biodiversity of Peru Observe the area’s wonderful endemic wildlife Lima Machu Picchu

the nazca lines

During a 30-minute flight in a 12-seater aircraft, we fly over a series of straight and gently tapering lines, etched into the desert and thought to have been used by Nazca communities in professional ways.

Often orientated towards what may have been perceived as sacred hilltops inland, they all famously include naturalistic images such as spider, humming bird, monkey, a tree and a strange creature known as the ‘astronaut’. Flying over these is a truly remarkable experience.

Nazca

Ollantaytambo

Peru

Cuzco Tipon Raqch’i

Puerto Inka

Arequipa

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to Cuzco along a road that is still visible heading off into the interior. We have a late lunch here before investigating elements of this very unusual place that has wonderful views across the Pacific Ocean.

Hotel: Hotel Puerto Inka Meals: All meals included

Day Six |Puerto Inka - Arequipa

itinerary

Santa Catalina Monastery, Arequipa

Day One | Lima

Arrive in Lima and transfer to the hotel. Take the time to unwind before having dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Lima

The day is spent in Lima. In the morning we visit the National Museum of Anthropology & Archaeology and, after lunch by the sea, enjoy a walking tour of some of the highlights of the Spanish Colonial capital.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Miraflores Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Lima - Nazca

This morning we depart from Lima and drive south along the desert coast to the city of Ica. Here we tour the Regional Museum, which houses a wealth of ancient coastal aftifacts, notably some very fine pots from both the Paracas and Nazca cultures. Ica is a fertile agricultural area and produces some of Peru’s best wine. Later in the afternoon we continue south to the modern town of Nazca.

Hotel: Casa Andina Standard Nazca Meals: Breakfast, boxed lunch & dinner included

Day Four | Nazca

Our day begins with a drive across the desert to the extensive Nazca ceremonial center of Cahuachi. Featuring some 40 mounds that originally formed the bases to mud brick structures, Cahuachi is thought to have been a pilgrimage site, maintained by a small permanent population but visited at certain ritually important times of the year by people from throughout the Nazca area. After lunch back in the town, we visit the Antonini Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Nazca material, including pots, some intriguing architectural models and Nazca mummies, remarkably well preserved in the dry coastal environment.

Hotel: Casa Andina Standard Nazca Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Nazca – Puerto Inka

First thing in the morning we have the opportunity to fly over the Nazca Lines in a small plane. This is purely optional, but for those who decide to go it is a remarkable experience and the best way to gain an appreciation of the scale and extent of these extraordinary pre-Columbian ‘geoglyphs’. We return to our hotel for breakfast before heading on south to the coastal site of Puerto Inka, a little visited but extensive and important ancient port, from where in Inca times coastal products were shipped

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With various scenic stops along the way, we drive on further south and then inland to the city of Arequipa, at a height of 2,300m and dramatically surrounded by volcanoes. Arequipa’s Spanish Colonial center is deservedly a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not only is there much to see in Peru’s second largest city, but it also possesses a famous regional cuisine, which we will have ample time to sample.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Arequipa Meals: All meals included

Day Seven| Arequipa

Our day in Arequipa begins with viewing the extraordinarily extensive and well-preserved Santa Catalina Monastery, which has long been Arequipa’s most famous attraction.

Founded in 1575, the convent is a small town within a city, enclosed by lofty protective walls. It has its own streets, tiny individual houses, kitchens, storerooms, refectory, cloisters and a number of chapels, most of the fabrics of all these structures are vividly painted. We continue to the ‘Museo Santuarios Andinos’. The museum houses archaeological material from the region but it is most famous as home to some marvelously preserved mummies of the Inca period, found among the glaciers of nearby mountains. Afterwards, there will be time to wander around other parts of Colonial Arequipa, to visit the Jesuit and other churches and some of the impressive Colonial houses.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Arequipa Meals: All meals included

Day Eight |Arequipa – Cuzco

In the morning we fly to Cuzco. Upon arrival there is time to relax and acclimatize to the altitude, before taking an optional walk through the Inca capital.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Cuzco Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Cuzco

We start out with a walking tour of Cuzco in the morning, during which we see the Coricancha - or Temple of the Sun, the Incas’ most sacred shrine. After this we make our way to the extensive Inca Museum, very close to Cuzco’s main plaza. This afternoon, we explore the great fortress of Sacsayhuaman, its massive walls constructed from huge blocks of limestone that were dragged from nearby quarries by thousands of workers, paying their labor tax to the Inca state. From Sacsayhuaman we travel a short distance to the site of Q’enqo, built of comparably worked stone but a smaller, sacred site where observations were made of the movements of planets and stars.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Cuzco Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Cuzco

We first make our way to Tipon, south of Cuzco, to see this beautifully positioned archaeological site, which has extensive and well-built Inca terrace systems. After lunch, we see the Temple of Viracocha at Raqchi, built largely of mud brick on stone foundations. This is Inca in date, but is surrounded by other structures, notably a large series of storehouses that have recently been discovered to be much earlier.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Cuzco Meals: Breakfast, boxed lunch & dinner included

www.andantetravels.com/sam

Sacsayhuaman, Cuzco

Day Eleven | Cuzco

In the morning, we travel to the beautiful site of Chinchero.

Originally the private estate of the ruler Topa Inca, it possesses impressive carved rock outcrops, sweeping Inca terraces and a painted early Colonial church that incorporates a large Inca hall. We also make a specially arranged visit to a local family to witness a demonstration of traditional weaving. We continue on to Moray and its extraordinary circular terrace systems, the exact purpose of which is still much debated. Here we have a boxed lunch, before descending to the Urubamba Valley or ‘Sacred Valley’ and proceeding to Ollantaytambo, where we walk through more finely constructed Inca terracing into the town.

Hotel: Hotel Pakaritampu Meals: Breakfast, boxed lunch & dinner included

Day Twelve | Cuzco

Today we spend time exploring the main Ollantaytambo ruins, which enjoy impressive views across the Urubamba to the ancient quarry site. From here, we then drive up through the Patacancha Valley, past a number of ancient settlements, to the Inca site and Colonial church located at Marcacocha. Here, we stop for a picnic lunch before returning to Ollantaytambo, where we can visit other parts of this uniquely well-preserved Inca town.

Hotel: Hotel Pakaritampu Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Fifteen | Cuzco

A further day to explore Cuzco, concentrating initially on the Spanish parts of the city. We follow a walking tour that takes in the Cathedral, the church of San Blas, the Casa Cabrera and the main Colonial buildings around the Plaza Nazarenas After lunch we visit the Casa Concha Machu Picchu Museum. The rest of the day is left for us to spend as we wish. Perhaps visit the Martin Chambi Museum, or simply relax in a local cafe.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Cuzco Meals: All meals included

Day Sixteen | Cuzco

This morning we drive to the small colonial village of Pisac to experience its lively local market. We will also briefly view part of the extensive Pisac ruins after lunch.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Cuzco Meals: All meals included

Day Seventeen | Depart Lima

Today we take an early morning flight to Lima, where we visit the magnificent Larco Herrera Museum. The collections here include objects from all the ancient cultures that we have encountered on this tour. We stop at the museum for lunch and then transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

Day Thirteen | Cuzco – Machu Picchu

We board the train in Ollantaytambo for Machu Picchu and travel along the Urubamba river to Aguas Calientes. This small town is situated directly below Machu Picchu and, in the afternoon, we catch a bus up to the legendary site and will spend the rest of our day here. Despite being hugely popular with tourists, the remarkable quality of the stonework and the stunning location of the site still take the breath away.

Hotel: El MaPi Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen|Machu Picchu - Cuzco

We set off early this morning to complete our exploration of Machu Picchu, before returning to enjoy a leisurely lunch in Aguas Calientes. Later, we return up the valley by train to Ollantaytambo and thence to Cuzco.

Hotel: Casa Andina Premium Cuzco Meals: All meals included

Peruvian girls in traditional attire

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chile & easter island 25th June - 9th July 2019 | 3rd - 17th September 2019 | 15 Days from $9,825 (single supplement $1,295)

Additional departure dates for 2019

What’s Included Internal flights | Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Moai statues at the Rano Raraku Volcano, Easter Island

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City of Valparaiso

T

his is an adventure indeed - travelling across the globe with an international expert to see some of the most enigmatic rock art in the world, situated in vast and often remote landscapes. Doing so involves travelling down the coast of northern Chile and into the Atacama desert, before flying over the Pacific to a tiny speck of land - the iconic Easter Island.

We shall be discovering places seldom visited, which our ancestors chose to decorate with huge earth pictures and complex rock art. Some of the sites we see are simply extraordinary - their gigantic scale makes us ask why and for whom such things were created.

guide lecturers Dr. Elizabeth Baquedano is a specialist in the Archaeology of Mesoamerica, and a Senior Honorary Lecturer at the Institute of Archaeology, University College London, where she is the Co-ordinator of Aztec Archaeology and Ethnohistory. Elizabeth also gives regular gallery talks at the British Museum, and has also led many tours to Mexico and Latin America.

highlights Discover extraordinary rock art amid lunar-like landscapes Encounter the imposing Moai statues on the iconic Easter Island Enjoy a memorable tour led by an expert Arica

Visit fascinating regional museums in a variety of locations Traverse the striking Atacama Desert, declared the world’s driest

Azapa Valley Ariquilda

Iquique

San Pedro de Atacama

Chile

easter island

The most remote piece of land inhabited on the planet, Easter Island — its indigenous name being Rapu Nui — is a Chilean island located at the southeasternmost point of the Polynesian Triangle in the Pacific ocean. Famous for its archaeological site, it boasts more than 900 monumental stone figures called maoi, created by the Rapu Nui people from the 10th to the 16th century. On this memorable tour, we have created the opportunity to see this unique cultural phenomenon.

Atacama Desert

Vinã del Mar

Easter Island Hanga Roa

Valparaiso

Santiago

Rano Kau

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Day Four | Iquique

We start our day with a boat trip into the Pacific from Iquique harbour, with the opportunity to spot pelicans, sea-lions and endangered Humboldt penguins. Next, we visit the excellent Regional Museum in Iquique, where archaeological collections feature two Chinchorro Mummies and an illuminating exhibition on the history of the saltpetre extraction in northern Chile. After lunch, there is an atmospheric tour of the ‘ghost town’ of Humberstone, a former saltpetre mining town that was abandoned in 1960, and has since been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a unique opportunity to peer back through the sands of time.

Hotel: Hotel Terrado Cavancha Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Iquique - San Pedro de Atacama Abandoned building in Humberstone

itinerary Day One | Santiago

Upon arrival in Santiago, we have a short transfer to the hotel.

After a welcome lunch, we have the rest of the afternoon to simply relax and recover from our flight, or join a guided walk around Santiago, Chile’s capital city since the colonial era. On foot is the perfect way to take in the culture and local atmosphere as we discover its many parks, winding streets and eclectic buildings, admiring the fusion of colonial, Art Deco, and neo-gothic styles.

Hotel: Hotel Magnolia Meals: Lunch & dinner included

Day Two | Santiago - Arica

After breakfast we catch a flight to Arica, a seaside port and town in northern Chile, just a few miles south of the Peruvian border. Here we visit the San Miguel Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Chinchorro Mummies, preserved for several millennia by the dry heat of the desert. Modern analysis of the mummies has revealed them to be semi-nomadic people subsisting on the sea. Astonishingly, the oldest body predates the Egyptian mummies by some 3,000 years. Later we cross the stark oasis of the Azapa Valley to view the spectacular rock art still visible on the hillsides — a vivid assortment of human figures and animals.

Hotel: Panamericana Hotel Arica Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Arica - Iquique

This morning our journey takes us through the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the world according to studies by NASA. Parts of this region have never received even one drop of rain. We stop at Chiza and Tiliviche to see the sprawling human and llama geoglyphs here, thought to have been created as a guide to caravans descending from the mountains to the coast. We also visit the Ariquilda petroglyphs, where a rich variety of human, animal and geometric figures can be seen.

Finally, we travel to our hotel in Iquique, stopping en-route to explore El Gigante del Atacama, the world’s largest prehistoric depiction of a human.

Hotel: Hotel Terrado Cavancha Meals: Breakfast & light lunch included

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After breakfast we drive to Cerros Pintados to view geoglyphs scattered for miles along the hillsides. More than 450 figures have been discovered here, with over 60 restored so far; the largest collection of its kind in South America. Once we have finished observing the numerous geometric shapes and figures here, we visit Quillagua and its small museum before continuing to San Pedro de Atacama, an oasis village surrounded by spectacular volcanic scenery – one of Chile’s most beloved destinations.

Hotel: Hotel Altiplanico Meals: All meals included

Day Six| San Pedro de Atacama

Today we drive to the petroglyphs at Yerbas Beunas, located in Chile’s geographical center. More than 1,000 images are visible here, left by the Altacameno people. The afternoon is free to spend how you wish, either stay in San Pedro de Atacama or join an optional excursion, such as the Atacama Salt Flat Tour.

Taking you through beautiful natural landscapes, including part of the largest salt flat in Chile, we will see native fauna and flora, visit the Flamencos National Reserve, Lake Chaxa and the village of Toconao.

Hotel: Hotel Altiplanico Meals: Breakfast & dinner included

Day Seven | San Pedro de Atacama

Our morning is spent among the amazing lunar landscapes of the Valle de la Luna, which is a colorful and textured valley that contains unusual wind-carved formations and dry lakes that gleam with salt. This afternoon we fly back to Santiago.

Hotel: Hotel Magnolia Meals: All meals included Valle de la Luna in San Pedro de Atacama

Day Eight | Santiago

We make our way over to Vina del Mar to visit the Museo de Arqueologico e Historia Francisco Fonck. The museum has a rich collection of wooden carvings, striking displays of archaeological material from other parts of Chile and an unforgettable exhibit on the process of shrinking heads!

After lunch we embark on an informative walking tour of Valparaiso, a quirky city famed for its maze-like streets, vibrant colonial architecture, and richly artistic heritage. Not for nothing has this lively place been nicknamed the ‘Jewel of the Pacific’.

Hotel: Hotel Magnolia Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Santiago - Easter Island

The next part of our adventure begins as we fly across the ocean to enigmatic Easter Island, one of the most isolated locations on the planet. Our explorations start with a preliminary walk around Hanga Roa, the island’s capital and harbour, as well as its only town. This calm and compact settlement is home to most of the islands 5,000 inhabitants.

Hotel: Hotel O’tai Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Easter Island

Our first full day on Easter Island begins with a trip to our first moai at Ahu Tahai, where these monolithic human figures stand – one with its giant coral eyes replaced. Three ceremonial platforms remain on this site, which were restored by the late American archaeologist, Dr William Mulloy. He and his wife are both buried here. We continue on to the nearby Museo Antropologico Sebastian Englert to learn the story behind the moai and their discoverers. Here we see the only female moai to have been discovered, as well as an original moai eye. This afternoon is free for us to enjoy at leisure.

Hotel: Hotel O’tai Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Easter Island

After breakfast we journey to the quarry at Rano Raraku, where many unfinished moai are still standing in situ. The site was in use until the 18th century, supplying stone for around 97% of the island’s moai over a time frame of approximately 500 years. The biggest moai in existence lies here incomplete, and measures a staggering 21.6 meters from end to end.

Following this we visit the longest line of standing statues at Tongariki, the largest Ahu on the island, where we find the world’s heaviest re-erected moai, weighing in at an almost inconceivable 86 tonnes. After a picnic lunch at Rano Raraku, our day concludes with a viewing of the rock carvings at Papa Vaka. Here we see marine petroglyphs carved into the basalt, including a remarkable depiction of a squid.

Hotel: Hotel O’tai Meals: All meals included

Day Twelve | Easter Island

We continue to explore further moai sites around the south coast today. There is Ahu Vaihu, where the moai lie face down with broken necks; Akahanga, an unrestored platform near which the island’s first king is said to be buried; Hanga Tetenga, where tumbled statues rest amidst scattered rocks; Te Pito te Kura, the site of a bizarre magnetic stone as well as the largest moai to be transported from Rano Raraku; and, lastly, but by no means least, the detailed carved figures of the royal platform of Ahu Nau Nau. After a barbecue lunch, we make our way to Anakena Beach with its white coral sands, where we have the afternoon free to relax.

Hotel: Hotel O’tai Meals: All meals included

Humboldt Penguins in Iquique harbour

Day Thirteen| Easter Island

This morning we head out to the ruined platforms of Vinapu which feature the finest stonework on the island. We visit Ahu Huri a Urenga, (an inland platform with an astronomical orientation and a single moai with four hands); then the quarry at Puna Pau, an extinct volcano and source of the huge red cylindrical stone top-knots seen on the heads of many maoi.

The rock here is soft, easy to carve and is given its color by the high iron content. A climb to the sides of the crater rewards us with wonderful views of Hanga Roa. Our next stop is Ahu Akivi, another inland platform whose seven identical statues seem to have been carefully placed to mark both spring and autumn equinoxes. Finally, we walk to the lava cave at Te Pahu, a tunnel formed many thousands of years ago, during the last local lava spill. After a picnic lunch here, we make our way to the restored moai in the harbour of Hanga Piko, and to Ana Kai Tangata (the name of which translates to ‘cannibal cave’), situated directly on the sea-front. We continue to Rano Kau, a wide volcano within which lies a crater lake, as well as a fertile landscape nurturing figs and luscious vines. Here we visit the Orongo ceremonial village, perched magnificently on the crater’s edge, beside a sheer 300-meter cliff. Looking out across the water we see the offshore islet of Motu Nui, final destination for competitors in the annual Birdman swimming race, the first prize of which was to rule Easter Island for a year.

Hotel: Hotel O’tai Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Fourteen | Easter Island - Santiago

After a morning spent at leisure, we transfer to the airport and catch our return flight to Santiago.

Hotel: Hotel Magnolia Meals: Breakfast & dinner included

Day Fifteen | Depart Santiago

Our last day in this exciting capital begins with a visit to the Museo de Arte Precolombino, which houses a world-class collection of Latin American antiquities. Begun by Chilean architect and antiques fanatic Sergio Larraían García-Moreno, it displays many interesting aftifacts that have been selected specifically for their esthetic qualities. Highlights here include Mapuche funeral carvings and an entire room of beautiful prehistoric textiles. Afterwards, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & light lunch included

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tunisia

The Punic Wars

Guaranteed: 16th - 23rd April 2019 | Guaranteed: 10th - 17th October 2019 14th - 21st November 2019 | 8 Days | from $2,620 (single supplement $265)

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

What’s Included: Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Dougga

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Archaeological site in Carthage

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his is where dramatic events changed ancient history - the superpowers of Carthage and Rome clashed in three Punic Wars.

Lasting more than 100 years, the conflict ultimately resulted in the destruction of Carthage and assured Roman ascendancy. Join us to explore the ruins of the Roman era in the beautiful, verdant North African countryside.

We travel from the ruins of Carthage itself to the magnificent Roman towns and monuments of Roman Tunisia; the amphitheater at El Djem, the beautiful, remote site of Dougga and vast intricate mosaics, which bring the world of Roman Africa vividly to life.

highlights Marvel at mosaics at the Bardo and Sousse Museums Experience unrivalled Classical archaeology

guide lecturers Tony O’Connor specializes in the Roman Empire, who has excavated widely across Britain, Europe and North Africa.

He is particularly passionate about Roman North Africa, having excavated in Libya for many years. Tony is also deeply interested in the study of Roman coinage.

Dr. Eireann Marshall was raised in a 15th century villa in Vicenza, so was born to history!

She is an honorary research fellow for the OU and is currently working on a project of the reception of Roman culture in the frontiers of the Roman empire. Eireann has led many tours for Andante Travels.

Visit the UNESCO sites of Dougga and Kairouan Stand before the spectacular amphitheater at El Djem

El Haouaria

Admire the striking ruins of the Zaghouan Aqueduct Medjez el Bab

Tunis

Dougga

el djem

This fascinating tour will see us enjoying more than just the rich culture and history of Tunisia. One of our highlights is the amphitheater at El Djem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best preserved Roman ruins in the world. It was built in 238 AD, it was the 3rd amphitheater built in the same city and it has served a variety of roles since its initial construction.

Kairouan

Kerkouane Carthage

Thuburbo Majus

Sousse

El Jem

Tunisia

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Carthage harbour

itinerary Day One | Tunis

Arrive in Tunis and transfer to our hotel. This evening, meet the group and enjoy dinner.

Hotel: El Mouradi Hotel Africa Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Tunis

This morning we begin with a visit to the famous Bardo Museum, situated in an old Beylical palace. It houses one of the most important collections of mosaics anywhere in the world Highlights include the Virgil Mosaic and the Odysseus Mosaic, as well as many depicting beast hunts. There is a wonderful collection of Carthaginian aftefacts and Paleochrisitian baptisteries. In the afternoon, we venture to the Byrsa Hill where we see the haunting remains of pre-Roman Carthage.

After visiting the Byrsa Hill museum, we explore remains from Roman Carthage, when the city was the capital of Africa Proconsularis; in particular, we explore the Roman Antonine Baths, one of the largest in the whole of the Roman empire.

Afterwards, we venture to the disquieting Salambo Tophet, a cemetery which contained the remains of children who were sacrificed to Tanit, after they were already dead, or, more likely, as live victims. We end the day with a visit to the Cothon, or harbour, testament to Carthage’s famous maritime might.

Hotel: El Mouradi Hotel Africa Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Tunis

Today we venture to the gorgeous Cap Bon peninsula, the point of Tunisia which is closest to Sicily. The morning will be spent at Kerkouane, a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the sea. The extraordinary site of Kerkouane, was inhabited from the seventh to the third century BC and was abandoned after the First Punic War, making it the only purely Punic site in Africa. The highlight of this site are the houses which typically contain bath tubs waterproofed with a pinkish mortar. We will also see remains of Punic industry, as well as an enigmatic sanctuary. Afterwards, we will visit the site museum which has interesting remains from the nearby necropolis. We will have a picnic on site here before travelling to Nabeul, today famed for its ceramic but in antiquity a trading port founded by Cyrene.

We are visiting the small museum, to see intriguing mosaics and to read about the production of garum in the area.

Hotel: El Mouradi Hotel Africa Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner

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Day Four | Tunis

Today we visit Dougga, one of the best preserved and famous ancient sites in North Africa, enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. Located in the Tunisian hinterland, in a wonderfully fertile plan, ancient Thugga was a Numidian site, located on a hill top, in a defensible position. Evidence of its Numidian origin can be seen in its extensive circuit wall, as well as the magnificent Mausoleum of Ateban, located on the bottom of the hill and which can be seen from afar. That said, the site we see today belongs to the prosperous period of the Roman empire, when Africa was the breadbasket of Rome.

Walking down the winding streets, you will start out with a wonderfully preserved theater, and meander down to the fantastic Capitolium, past walls hastily erected in the Byzantine period in order to protect the city against Arab invaders.

Further down the hill, you will explore bath complexes, one complete with an intact latrine, houses and sanctuaries – all in the kind of peace no longer found on European sites. Dougga is truly one of the best Roman sites in the world and one you will never forget.

Hotel: El Mouradi Hotel Africa Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Tunis - Kairouan

We start the day with a visit to the impressive Zaghouan aqueduct, a monument to Roman engineering which carried water from Gebel Zaghouan all the way to Carthage, at a Amphitheater at El Djem

total of 132 kilometers. In total, including later additions, the aqueduct carried a total of between 17 and 32 million liters of water a day to Carthage. This morning, we will view the aqueduct in Oudhna, in one of its best preserved sections.

Afterwards, we move on to the little known site of Oudhna which offers a plethora of monuments, including a sizeable cistern, a theater, amphitheater and basilica, complete with a crypt. Our last visit will be to Thburbo Majus, a delightful and little visited site which has even better photogenic remains.

Originally Punic (though it has a characteristic Th sound associated with Numidian cities), the city was later re founded as a Roman veteran colony in the Augustan period. Here we will explore the forum, dominated by the Capitolium, before moving on to the Winter Baths and Summer Baths. In between the two, there is the well preserved Palaestra of Petronius, which belonged to the Summer Baths, and a memorable latrine. We walk up to view some temples with a Punic flavor: the Temple of Baalit and Temple of Caelestis, both Romanised names of Punic goddesses. We end the day with a visit to the impressive cistern and amphitheater.

Hotel: Las Kasbah Kairouan Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner

Day Six | Kairouan

We start the day by exploring Tunisia’s most important religious city, namely Kairouan. Founded by the Umayyads in the seventh century AD, the city quickly became important as a center of Islamic scholarship and as a pilgrimage site. We explore the city by foot, starting from our hotel, which used to be part of the city’s kasbah, or fortress. We walk to the Great Mosque of Kairouan, which was founded in AD 670, making it the oldest mosque in Africa, and one of the most important in the world. From the rather austere Aghlabid enclosure, we walk through the main gate, reserved from non-Muslim visitors, to the central courtyard in which there is a ninth century cistern. All around, you will see pillars and lintels which were reused from the Roman and Christian periods, linking this mosque to the antique period. We will gaze inside the prayer hall from the outside and note the ninth century mihrab, indicating the direction of Mecca. We continue the day by considering the ninth century Aghlabid period, in which the city became one of the most prosperous in the Islamic world.

We view one of the most splendid sites from the Aghlabid period, namely the Aghlabid pools, which pay testament to the wonderful water system constructed in the period. After lunch, we visit the museum of Sousse, which is located in the city’s twelfth century kasbah and has the second largest collection of mosaics in the world, after the Bardo. The earliest aftifacts in the museum date from the city’s Punic period, when it was called Hadrumetus. The most splendid, however, date from the prosperous Roman period, when the citizens of Hadrumetum, made rich from trade, could afford the best mosaics in the Roman empire. Here we will see mosaics which testify to this maritime background, the most famous of which is the large mosaic of Neptune on his charity. We will also admire Paleochristian remains, notably the baptismal font found in Bqalta.

Hotel: Las Kasbah Kairouan Meals: All meals included

Thuburbo Majus after its citizens proclaimed Gordian I emperor in 238 AD and was sacked by soldiers loyal to the erstwhile emperor, Maximinus Thrax. The amphitheater itself survived the siege but was later severely damaged in the seventh century AD when the Berber queen Kahina used it as a defense against Arab invaders. Today we explore one of the empire’s largest and best preserved amphitheaters – visible for miles. We will admire the arena area, climb up the seating area and finally descend into the service areas where animals and gladiators were kept and from where they were pulleyed up during performances. After the visits, we leave to Hammamet for our final night in Tunisia.

Hotel: The Sindbad Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Depart Hammamet

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Seven| Kairouan - Hammamet

We have saved one of the most important archaeological sites in Tunisia for today, namely El Djem. Originally a Numidian city called Thysdrus, El Djem was particularly wealthy in the second century AD and into the late antique period when it was an olive oil production center. On the back of this wealth, the city built several amphitheaters, the most important of which was built in the third century AD and is one of the largest in the empire. Alas, the city’s fortunes declined sharply

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rock art in the namibian wilds 15th - 28th October 2019 | 14 Days from $8,353 (single supplement $745)

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Wildlife engravings at Twyfelfontein

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Cheetah at the Africat Foundation

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he rock art of the Khoisan people is a tradition that has continued over thousands of years. This aspect of an ancient culture is brought to life with exciting immediacy by stunning surroundings. Landscapes almost unchanged by humanity are still populated by the same wild creatures depicted in the earliest art.

Leading us is Dr. Paul Bahn, the authority on rock art, and local Namibian guides, whose knowledge of the wildlife, parks and reserves is unrivalled. This tour will be dedicated to experiencing all that Namibia has to offer.

highlights Incomparable ancient rock art sites among incredible landscapes

guide lecturers Dr. Paul Bahn is the leading expert on prehistoric rock art world-wide, and is certainly one of our bestknown archaeologists. Paul led the team which discovered the first Ice Age cave art in Britain in 2003. He is not only a leading academic but a great exponent of popular and accessible archaeology, and he has been leading tours for Andante Travels since 1997, inspiring and enthusing our travelers in the famous caves of France and Spain, in open air rock shelters in Portugal, and in Chile and Easter Island. Paul was also vice-president of the Australian Rock Art Association for eight years.

Game drives in the amazing Etosha National Park Travel with an expert on rock art, Dr. Paul Bahn Visit and get involved in the Africat Foundation in Okonjima An immersive tour of Namibia, a truly memorable experience

Etosha National Park

Peet Alberts Koppie Burnt Mountain

Okonjima

TWYFELFONTEIN

Twyfelfontein is one of the few places in Southern Africa with both paintings and petroglyphs. This sprawling site — its name means “Doubtful Spring” in Afrikaans — was discovered by Maack and has almost 5000 petroglyphs created on almost vertical exposed slabs of soft sandstone, weathered to a red color. It is also the most thoroughly studied petroglyph site in Namibia, being exceptional for the quantity and variety of its images.

White Lady Rock

Ai Aiba

Swakopmund Walvis Bay

Windhoek Ameib

Namibia

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Wildlife in the Etosha National Park

itinerary

Day One | Walvis Bay

Upon arrival in Namibia, we travel to Swakopmund and check in to our hotel. There will be time to unwind at leisure before we meet for dinner in the evening.

Hotel: Hansa Hotel Meals: Dinner included

Day Two| Swakopmund

This morning you can choose to book an optional activity at the Coast or go on an excursion with your Guide Lecturer and local guides to explore the area of the Moonlandscape and the Welwitschia Plains where you will get to see some amazingly desolate views as well as examples of the extraordinary millennia old plants. On the way back, you will also be able to visit the area of the Swakop River which reaches the sea on the southern edge of Swakopmund. The area around the river mouth and the surrounding dunes are rich in both bird life, and unusual plant species. The optional activities at the Coast are either a seal and dolphin catamaran cruise on the Outer Lagoon at Walvis Bay, or joining a Living Desert Tour in the coastal dunes between Swakopmund and Walvis Bay. The afternoon will be free for us to explore the small but fascinating Swakopmund Museum, where there are on display a variety of indigenous plants, animals, minerals, an archaeological exhibition, the transport system of old, and an array of cultural and historical objects to help us understand more about this part of the world. The exhibition “People of Namibia” highlights the rich cultural history of Namibia’s people with an insight into their traditions and everyday life. Later, you may choose to take part in an optional afternoon scenic flight over the Sossusvlei area of the Namib Desert, returning up the coast over shipwrecks, deserted mining camps and seal colonies etc.

Hotel: Hansa Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Swakopmund - Ameib - Ai Aiba Today, we plan to drive from Swakopmund to Ameib Guest Farm where we will visit a number of interesting sites, including Phillip’s Cave, an old cave of the San people where

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they created many interesting rock paintings, including the popular white elephant. Afterwards, we would continue to Ai Aiba. The Ameib Guest farm, however, is currently closed to any visitors so this may not be possible. If that is the case, we will drive instead to Spitzkoppe to visit some of the Bushman rock paintings there, including the Bushman’s Paradise rock paintings, and stay in that area overnight before going on to spend two full days in the Erongo Mountains afterwards.

Upon arrival in Spizkoppe, we would take a break for lunch and then explore the impressive granite rock formations of the Spitzkoppe mountain and then explore the rock art sites in the area during the afternoon.

Hotel: Ai Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge & Omandumba Guest Farm or Spitzkoppen Lodge & Hohenstein Lodge Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner included

Day Four | Ai Aiba

This morning we visit the “Living Museum” of the Ju/HoansiSan (also called Bushman) at Omandumba. Here, we will gain an insight into the ancient hunter-gathered culture, the lifestyle of traditions of the San people. After lunch, we continue to the rock shelter of Ekuta. Considered to be one of the best rock art sites in the whole region, it contains detailed depictions of animals and people carrying equipment, such as bows and arrows.

Hotel: Ai Aiba, The Rock Painting Lodge & Omandumba Guest Farm Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Ai Aiba

The Lodge at Ai Aiba is dramatically set against imposing granite boulders in the foothills of the mountain range. Steeped in history, these ancient rock formations are the eroded remains of a volcanic complex about 130 million years old. We spend our entire day on a guided walks to thoroughly explore the local rock art here.

Hotel: Ai Aiba – The Rock Painting Lodge & Omandumba Guest Farm Meals: All meals included

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Day Six | Ai Aiba - Brandberg

We spend our morning in Omandumba West. The rock art in this area includes rare and valuable paintings, such as the Swarm of the Bees and Torch. After lunch at the farm here, we travel to our next venues, the Brandberg White Lady Lodge and Brandberg Restcamp – selected for their close proximity to the “White Lady of the Brandberg” so that we can get to see it before it gets too hot the following morning. Once we have checked-in, we explore along the Ugab River, which provides water for the rare desert elephant, as well as giraffe, mountain zebra and the elusive desert adapted black rhinoceros, which hopefully we will spot during our afternoon here.

Hotel: Brandberg White Lady Lodge & Brandberg Rest Camp Meals: All meals included

Day Seven| Brandberg - Twyfelfontein

We start this morning with a visit to the famous “White Lady” rock painting on the north eastern side of the Brandberg where the peak, which is called Konigstein, is the highest point in Namibia. This area is famous for its numerous rock paintings, although many of those higher up on the mountain can be difficult to access. As a result of these National treasures, the Brandberg has recently been declared a National Monument .

The “White Lady” rock painting was discovered by Reinhard Maack in 1917 and is considered to be the most famous rock art figure in southern Africa. This afternoon, we drive on up to the Twyfelfontein area, one of the largest and most important concentrations of rock art in Africa, which was approved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Hotel: Mowani Mountain Camp & Camp Kipwe Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Twyfelfontein

We have the opportunity to experience a thrilling game drive along the Aba Huab River Valley to view the local fauna and the native wildlife, including another opportunity to see some of Namibia’s endemic desert elephants. So far on our travels, we will have seen a number of different species of birds, but this location should be particularly good for that and we could spot some semi-endemics such as Monteiro’s hornbill, the Benguela long-billed lark, Ruppel’s Korhaan and the white-tailed Shrike. We then go on to visit Twyfelfontein Country Lodge where we view the fascinating late Stone Age petroglyphs which depict native fauna and hunter-gathered activities. Afterwards, we spend time exploring the large number of prehistoric rock engravings in the Twyfelfontein site, and we can also go on visit the other local attractions of Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes.

Hotel: Mowani Mountain Camp & Camp Kipwe Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Etosha National Park

After driving to Kamanjab, we arrive at the rock art site of Peet Alberts Koppie, one of the Dorsland Trekkers and a former owner of Farm Kamanjab. As the second largest rock engraving site in Namibia, we see the giraffe, the largest engraving in Namibia. After lunch, we journey to Etosha National Park.

Home to abundant wildlife, it is undoubtedly one of Africa’s great game viewing locations. If there is time, we can head into the Park and visit the restcamp at Okaukuejo, where we should be able to observe a variety of wildlife congregating and interacting at the camp’s waterhole. We then leave the park to stay at our lodge which is situated about 20km south of the Park’s Andersson’s Gate.

Hotel: Etosha Safari Lodge Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Etosha National Park

Today offers a full day of exciting game drives in Etosha National Park as we make our way across via Okaukuejo and Halali to the eastern gate to the Park beyond Namutoni. The unique feature of Etosha is a huge salt pan that can be seen from space and game sightings here are almost guaranteed. In the late afternoon we leave the Park and go on to stay at our lodge outside the eastern gate.

Hotel: Mushara Bush Camp Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Etosha National Park

The second day in Etosha National Park which will be spent exploring the eastern side of the Park. Time permitting we may return to the area around Halali or to head north to explore Fischer’s Pan. Animals we are likely to see in this wonderful location include elephants, giraffes, kudu, oryx and zebra with a good chance of sighting rhino and lion as well as other animals endemic to this part of the country. Two truly memorable days.

Hotel: Mushara Bush Camp Meals: All meals included

Day Twelve | Okonjima

Today we drive south to the reserve at Okonjima, famous for its ‘Africat’ program. Founded in the 1990s, the Africat Foundation focuses on ensuring a sustainable future for Namibia’s large carnivores, such as leopards and cheetahs, through their conservation efforts. This afternoon we will be tracking some of these animals, a truly unique experience.

Hotel: Okonjima Plains Camp Meals: All meals included

Day Thirteen | Okonjima

We spend more time today on activities as offered by the AfriCat program, with further opportunities to track these incredible animals. In addition to the leopards and cheetahs, we may also have the chance to go out to look for hyenas. In the evening, we enjoy our last dinner together and take time to look back and recount the many highlights of our tour in this incredible country.

Hotel: Okonjima Plains Camp Meals: All meals included

Day Fourteen |Depart Windhoek

This morning we leave Okonjima and drive down to Windhoek International Airport, for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Natural stone arch in the sunrise, Spitzkoppe

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egypt

Land of the Pharaohs GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

18th - 28th October 2019 | 8th - 18th November 2019 | 11 Days from $4,503 (single supplement $935) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

The Great Pyramid of Khufu at Giza and the Sphinx

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Feluccas on the River Nile

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yramids, tombs and mummies – the archaeology of ancient Egypt is one of the most instantly recognisable of all the great civilizations.

This is a narrative of power, vision and ambition. The monuments of Egypt are much more than dry and dusty stones – through the real expertise of our Guide Lecturers, we ‘meet’ the real ancient Egyptians: from legendary Pharaohs to the humble workers, who built their tombs and palaces.

highlights Enjoy special access at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and at the Great Pyramid of Khufu Travel through Middle Egypt to explore the rarely-visited sites of Beni Hasan and Tell el-Amarna Explore remains of the royal cemetery of Egypt’s most intriguing Pharaoh, Akhenaten, and his powerful wife Nefertiti

guide lecturers Lucia Gahlin is a specialist in the archaeology of Ancient Egypt and has been leading archaeological tours to Egypt for over 20 years. She is an Honorary Research Associate at University College London’s Institute of Archaeology. Lucia has worked at the Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology at UCL, and continues to teach with objects in this museum, one of the world’s most important collections of Egyptian antiquities. She has been a Trustee of the Egypt Exploration Society, is Chair of the Friends of the Petrie Museum and Co-Director of Bloomsbury Summer School at UCL. Her areas of special interest are Ancient Egypt’s social history, settlement archaeology and the rituals and beliefs of daily life.

Seti I’s temple at Abydos, off the beaten track but home to the most beautiful raised relief in Egypt Escape the crowds and visit fascinating, but rarely-visited sites such as El Kab Giza

special access

At the Egyptian Museum in Cairo we have special, private access to the collections and the many treasures to be found here. A unique opportunity to pore over aftifacts and enjoy the captivating exhibit in the company of our expert guide. At the Great Pyramid of Khufu at Giza, we also have special access to it evocative inner chamber. Located above the Grand Gallery, the 100ft void links the King and Queens Chambers.

Egypt Bani Hasan

Cairo Saqqara Dahshur Minya Tell el-Amarna

Karnak Valley of the Kings

Dendera Luxor Deir el Medina

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Day Four | Cairo - Minya

We set off early for Minya this morning, stopping en route at Meidum, to see a collapsed three-step pyramid. Its ruinous state helps us understand its ancient transformation from a step pyramid to a ‘true’ (i.e. un-stepped) pyramid shape. It has been noted that certain aspects of the pyramid’s walls and interiors appear unfinished, adding weight to the idea that this major project was never completed. Our drive south takes us to Beni Hasan, a cemetery of Middle Kingdom tombs cut high in the cliffs overlooking the gleaming Nile. Some of these rock-carved tombs bear their original inscriptions, as well as painted scenes of ancient life.

Hotel: Mercure Nefertiti Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Minya - Asyut

Ancient ruins of Karnak Temple, Luxor

itinerary Day One | Cairo

Arrive in Cairo; the buzzing, energetic, metropolis that is Egypt’s extraordinary capital – a city that Egyptians admiringly refer to as ‘the Mother of the World’. The rest of our day will be spent getting to know one another better before our adventures begin.

Hotel: Marriott Mena House Hotel Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Cairo

We start our day with a visit to Saqqara, a vast necropolis to the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis. This compact location is ideal for the time we spend here. We discover the incredible Step Pyramid of Djoser and the smooth-sided Pyramid of Unas, the Mastaba of Mereuka and the Imhotep Museum, home to unique exhibits found during excavations nearby. After lunch we enjoy special access to the remarkable collections of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where the world’s most extensive exhibitions in pharaonic aftifacts can be seen. Among the many treasures on display are the solid gold mask of Tutankhamun, and the Narmer Palette, thought to depict the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt.

Hotel: Marriott Mena House Hotel Meals: All meals included

Today we spend our time exploring Tell el-Amarna, generally thought to be the most significant city site surviving from ancient Egypt. The original name of the city was Akhetaten, the ‘Horizon of the Aten’, a title corresponding to the actions of the so-called ‘heretic Pharaoh’ Akhetaton, who built it to honor his newly chosen god Aten after abandoning his worship of Amun.

The city itself was abandoned after the Pharaohs death, only 20 years or so after its creation. The full and thorough excavations of Tell el-Amarna’s expansive grounds mean there is much here to see on our visit.

Hotel: Cemex Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Asyut - Luxor

After an early breakfast we head to Abydos, one of ancient Egypt’s holiest locations. Rising from the sand here is the remarkable Temple of Seti I, a memorial to the otherwise often overlooked King Seti. Inside we find towering columns, elaborately carved, alongside vividly painted hieroglyphs and scenes of the pharaoh worshipping the gods. Behind this temple is an intriguing subterranean structure known as the Osireion, a megalithic monument built in dedication to Osiris, the god of the dead. Its moated design seems to mimic that of an island surrounded by water – and the nearby presence of the Nile still keeps it lined with water. Continuing on to Dendera we view the Temple of Hathor, with a grand layout built to include several halls and shrines – and even a laboratory. The temple is famed for its depictions of Cleopatra VII and Caesarion, excellent examples of Ptolemaic Egyptian art. Our day draws to a close at Luxor, a city often cited as ‘the world’s largest open-air museum’.

Hotel: Sofitel Winter Palace Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Cairo

Today we continue on to Dahshur. Here we discover several pyramids, two of which – the aptly named Bent and Red Pyramids – are widely considered to be the earliest and best preserved examples in the country. This afternoon we visit the pyramid complexes on the Giza Plateau, including the Great Pyramid – a true wonder of the ancient world. We also explore the Solar Boat Museum, which houses an original pharaonic ship and the enigmatic Great Sphinx, whose limestone form has occupied this spot for more than 4,000 years. For our final stop of the day, we have special access to the inner chambers of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, where atmospheric passageways lead to royal chambers and the breath-taking grand gallery.

Hotel: Marriott Mena House Hotel Meals: All meals included

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Lucia lecturing at the Temple of Hathor

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Day Nine | Luxor

We rise early to visit the tombs of El Kab, one of the oldest settlements of Upper Egypt. We seek out hidden rock-cut tombs with colorful interiors, and find traces of inhabitants from the New Kingdom era. We continue south to the Temple of Horus at Edfu. This is a site simply bursting with superlatives. We step into one of the country’s most magnificently preserved shrines, the construction of which is thought to have spanned an incredible 180 years, from the 3rd to the 2nd century BC. Towering at a jaw-dropping 37 meters, its pylon, or gateway, is the highest among all of Egypt’s surviving temples, and is decorated with vivid scenes of King Ptolemy VIII destroying his enemies before Horus. The complex even houses a Nilometer, a structure made to measure the depth and clarity of flooding Nile waters.

Hotel: Sofitel Winter Palace Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Luxor

Egyptian spice market

Day Seven | Luxor

This morning we travel by motorboat and then by coach, to visit the famous Colossi of Memnon on the West Bank at Thebes.

These two enormous statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III stand at a towering 18-meters high, and were erected to guard the entrance to the pharaoh’s vast and opulent memorial temple. Alas, only traces of that once-great temple remain.

We move on to the Valley of the Kings. This was the final resting place of royals and nobility for almost 500 years, with excavations dating the site back as far as the 16th century BC. Its most notable occupant is, of course, King Tutankhamun, so famously discovered by Howard Carter in 1922, and since returned to his original grave where he now lies undisturbed.

The wonders of the region continue to amaze us this afternoon, as we proceed to the Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahri, a stunning shrine which has largely been restored to its former glory. The temple is cradled by the dramatic natural sculptures of neighboring cliffs.

Hotel: Sofitel Winter Palace Hotel Meals: All meals included

This morning we lose ourselves in the captivating complex of Karnak. Here we encounter the cult temple of Amun-Ra, chief of the deities of the New Kingdom. This is a spectacular multi-period location with a wealth of religious and historical inscriptions at every turn. Chapels, gateways, halls and obelisks stand side by side. Sturdy pillars touch the African sky. Palm trees shimmer, reflected in the waters of the Sacred Lake.

Following this, we enter Luxor Museum, a masterfully arranged collection of archaeological aftifacts, and home to many celebrated works of art. Highlights include the famous statue of Tuthmosis III, an extraordinarily realistic figure carved out of greywacke. We round off the day by exploring Luxor Temple, with its avenue of sphinxes, military reliefs and gorgeous papyrus columns. Tonight we will enjoy a farewell dinner, and recount the highlights of what has been a truly memorable tour.

Hotel: Sofitel Winter Palace Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven | Depart Luxor

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Eight | Luxor

We pay a visit to Deir el Medina this morning. This ancient village on Luxor’s West Bank is the former home to the workers who constructed tombs nearby in the Valley of the Kings.

These artisans were operating at the height of their profession, and substantially better off than the average workers in Egypt at that time. That is until the conditions of their employment began to deteriorate, and many turned to looting the graves they had made. Our next stop is the Ramesseum, with its fallen colossus of Ramesses II, an astounding testament to the Pharaohs reign – and the inspiration behind Percy Bysshe Shelley’s masterpiece ‘Ozymandias’. After lunch, we journey on to Medinet Habu, arguably the best preserved temple of the New Kingdom, filled as it is with a wealth of exemplary paintings, carvings and sculptures. In total, the precinct contains over 7 square kilometers of decorated reliefs. After a day spent roaming the sunlit ruins, we enjoy an hour’s motorboat ride along the Nile, which will take us directly back to our hotel.

Hotel: Sofitel Winter Palace Hotel Meals: All meals included Temple of Horus, Edfu

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ethiopia

The African Empire

28th October - 8th November 2019 | 12 Days from $6,699 (single supplement $865)

GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

What’s Included Internal flights | Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Monolithic church of St. George, Lalibela

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Holy Trinity Cathedral, Addis Ababa

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thiopia is a land of striking contrasts, defined by the peaks of the Simien mountain plateau and the depths of the Rift Valley, home to the modern city of Addis Ababa and the granite stelae of Aksum, landlocked and yet refreshed by the waters of the Blue Nile. Modern history records the hard-fought independence of Ethiopia in the face of colonial powers - ensuring that this land retained its distinctive and enthralling cultural riches.

highlights Explore the labyrinthine churches and palaces of Aksum, Lalibela and Gondar, Ethiopia’s great imperial cities Visit the site of Yeha and the prehistoric Tiya burial complex with its enigmatic symbols

guide lecturers Dr Jacke Phillips is a specialist in the archaeology of Ethiopia, from prehistory to the medieval period. She is currently a Research and Teaching Fellow at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, where she is involved in a field project exploring the area around the famous rock cut churches in Lalibela. Jacke was previously Assistant Director of the Aksum Archaeology Project, and has also worked to protect Ethiopian archaeology for future generations by raising awareness of archaeological sites, and developing a public history program for schools.

Pore over aftifacts at museums, including the National Museum if Ethiopia, best known for its fossilized remains of early hominids Stand before the majestic Blue Nile Falls waterfall and visit Emperor Fasiladas’ atmospheric Epiphany Pool Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, take in the culture and sample Ethiopia’s traditional cuisine

Yeha Dungur

Mekele

Gondar

“Ethiopia was one of the first countries to adopt Christianity, with historical roots dating from the early 1st millennium BC. Lalibela’s 12 rock-hewn churches are both symbolic and deliberately representative of Jerusalem. Gondar served as the capital of the Ethiopian empire for more than two centuries and the city, sometimes known as the “Camelot of Africa”, boasts a host of royal castles to explore. Aksum is Ethiopia’s holiest city and remains its religious capital and still harbours the Ark of the Covenant.” - Dr. Jacke Phillips

Bahir Dar Blue Nile Falls

Lalibela

Debre Birhan Addis Ababa Adadi Maryam

Ethiopia

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Day Four | Lalibela

A day in Lalibela to visit the iconic medieval rock-hewn churches and monasteries. The city is almost a work of art completely carved from the rock. The Zagwe ruled at a time when the pilgrimage to Jerusalem was impossible, so they built their own. The churches are organized in two groups- those of “Earthly Jerusalem” on the northwest side of the river Jordan, and those of “Heavenly Jerusalem” on the southeast side.

These eleven monolithic structures are a testament to the skills of Ethiopia’s stone masons and were understandably declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. We visit a whole series connected by dark tunnels, wide plazas, and steep worn steps.

Hotel: Menzena Lodge Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Lalibela - Bahir Dar

Holy Mass at the orthodox Ethiopian church, Lalibela

itinerary Day One | Addis Ababa

On arrival in Addis Ababa, you can either take time to relax and acclimatize, or take a local guided walk. As the capital of the African Union, Addis Ababa is as you might expect, the country’s commercial and cultural hub, but it is also a sprawling city of extraordinary contrasts, some of which we discover during our time here.

Hotel: Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa Meals: Lunch & dinner included

Day Two | Addis Ababa

This morning we travel south to the Paleolithic site of Melka Kunture in the Upper Awash Valley, where finds dating back over 1.7 million years have been unearthed. This lies on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, and an extraordinary series of levels including butchery and occupation floors together with preserved footprints have been preserved. We continue to the 600 year-old rock-hewn church of Adadi Mariam with an extraordinary story. Buried in the 16th century to preserve it from the invasion of Emir Gragn of Harrar, it was uncovered and is now the most southern of the series of rock-cut churches.

Then to the pre-historic burial complex at Tiya, noted for its remarkable stone stelae, many of which bear mysterious symbols, especially swords and knives. We return this evening to Addis Ababa.

Hotel: Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Addis Ababa - Lalibela

An early morning flight with potential stunning views across the rugged highland landscape takes us to Lalibela, center of the Zagwe dynasty of medieval kings. Here we visit the Cultural Center and exhibits include ancient manuscripts, cultural aftifacts and archaeological finds from local sites. After lunch we drive on to explore the medieval cave monastery of Yimrehanne Kristos, with its preserved church and royal lodge of the 12th century. Still maintained by monks it remains a center of worship and seasonal pilgrimage for modern Ethiopians.

Hotel: Menzena Lodge Meals: All meals included

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A day long drive today, as we cut through the Ethiopian countryside on dirt roads to Bahir Dar, modern capital of the Amhara region. This area was the focal point of the medieval Christian empire, resulting in a wide variety of archaeological sites from the pivotal period in Ethiopian history. Bahir Dar is a lakeside city known for its wide avenues lined with palm trees. It is located on the south shore of Lake Tana, which is the source of the Blue Nile. The largest lake in Ethiopia, it is situated at 1,800m above sea level, and is crossed today by both the modern craft and the traditional red boats of the region.

Hotel: Avanti Blue Nile Resort Meals: All meals included

Day Six| Bahir Dar

This morning, we travel across Lake Tana by boat, to explore some of the lake’s islands and churches. There are more than twenty churches scattered across the islands of the lake, the oldest dating to the 14th century, although some may have Pre-Christian origins. These are still fully functioning monasteries with staffs of priests, monks and novices. The interiors of the great circular wooden churches are lavishly painted with biblical stories and Ethiopia’s own pantheon of saints. After lunch, we make a visit to the spectacular Blue Nile Falls, which while not always in full flood, involves a walk over an ancient Portuguese bridge and then via a solid modern suspension bridge which takes us over the gorge of the falls.

Hotel: Avanti Blue Nile Resort Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Bahir Dar - Gondar

We journey north today, passing Guzara Castle where the emperor Susenyos tried to introduce Catholicism, offering spectacular views of Lake Tana. Our destination is the imperial splendor of Gondar, the first capital city of the Ethiopian empire, in the foothills of the Simien Mountains. This afternoon, we visit Emperor Fasiladas’ Epiphany Pool, where the populace we reconverted to Orthodoxy, still used today for huge ceremonies of baptism and cleansing.

Hotel: Goha Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | Gondar

Our destination this morning is the Church of Debre Berhan Selassie, with its remarkable painted walls and ceiling.

Originally built by Emperor Iaysu the Great it was renewed by Iaysu II in the 17th century and given a unique decorative cycle.

After lunch, we visit the Imperial Palace complex at Gondar.

The Palace consists of six castles, built by a series of emperors and empresses in the 17th and 18th centuries with help from Portuguese engineers. They include the palaces of Fasilidas, Iyasu the Great and the chancellery of Johannes.

Hotel: Goha Hotel Meals: All meals included

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Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia

Day Nine | Gondar - Aksum

Today, we fly to Aksum, a city founded as early as the 10th century BC and reputed as the one-time home to the Queen of Sheba. The empire of Aksum was one of the great civilizations of the ancient world, and contemporary of Rome and Byzantium lasting until the 7th century AD, and whose empire straddled the Red Sea. The city is most famous for its large stelae, including one solid granite stela 23m in height which still towers above the stelae field. These mark the tombs of Aksumite kings. We visit the Aksum Archaeological Museum, which hosts a wide range of aftifacts dating to the Aksumite Empire that flourished until the 7th century AD. We also explore the Tombs of King Kaleb and Gebre Meskel, as well as the Mai Shum reservoir, also known as the Queen of Sheba’s bath. Later, we discover St. Mary of Zion Cathedral, the oldest church in Africa. According to long tradition, the Treasury houses the Ark of the Covenant.

Hotel: Sabean International Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Ten | Aksum

Our day begins with a visit to the Lioness of Gobedra, a fascinating rock sculpture carved into the relief a few miles outside Aksum. We also see the neighboring quarry, from which it is believed that the stone used to fashion the city’s renowned stelae was sourced. We then explore the palace complex at Dungur. This excavated site, of 16th century AD date, was undoubtedly the semi-fortified residence of one of the great nobles of Aksum though today it is better known as the Queen of Sheba’s Palace, even though she lived some 200 years previously.

Hotel: Sabean International Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Eleven |Aksum - Mekele

This morning, we drive east from Aksum through the dramatic rock formations of Tigre to the site of Yeha. This was the power center of a state that existed around 700BC and here we will see the Pre-Aksumite Saba‘an Temple of the Moon. Dating back to the 8th century BC, the Temple is believed to be the oldest standing structure in Ethiopia but still stands 12 meters high. Nearby lies a palace complex, and royal tombs. In the afternoon, we visit the Wukro Archaeological Museum, which opened in 2015 and is home to hundreds of aftifacts, including many from the Saba’an site of Meqaber Ga’ewa.

Hotel: Planet hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Twelve | Depart Addis Ababa

On our final full day, we fly back to Addis Ababa, where we explore some more of the city. We shall visit Holy Trinity Cathedral, a modern but architecturally fascinating structure, home to the tomb of Haile Selassie and his wife. We venture to Mount Entoto, on the outskirts of Addis, for its breath-taking views panoramic views of the city. This is where emperor Menelik, who reunited Ethiopia in the 19th century, built his Palace. Returning to the city, we explore both the National Museum of Ethiopia, best known for its fossilized remains of early hominids, including Lucy, the ancestor of us all and the Ethnological Museum, located within Haile Selassie’s former palace. As our tour draws to a close, we enjoy a farewell dinner this evening, with the opportunity to share each of our personal highlights of our time spent in Ethiopia. Afterwards, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: All meals included

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relaxed breaks If you’re looking for a study tour with more of a holiday feel, then our range of all-inclusive Relaxed Breaks are for you. Small groups that won’t exceed 18 guests, an expert guide lecturer and tour manager to accompany you on excursions, and the base of just one hotel throughout – see the world at a more leisurely pace.

Diocletian’s Palace’s

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relaxed split 6th - 13th April 2019 | 19th - 26th October 2019 | 8 Days from $4,045 (single supplement $445) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

View from the Fortica Fortress

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mmerse yourself in the history, culture and archaeology found on the idyllic Croatian coast. From our hotel, which will be our base for the entire tour, explore subterranean Roman foundations, incredible ancient ruins and other fascinating sites.

Roman specialist John Shepherd, will lead us ‘underground and overground’ exploring Europe’s most complete Roman palace. Sample local produce, from wine tastings to farm visits and with ample free time to revel in the delights of this atmospheric city.

itinerary Day One | Split

After settling into our hotel in Split, we have an introductory walk around this wonderful city.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Split

Explore the ancient site of Salona

We walk around Diocletian’s Palace in the morning and then visit Split Cathedral.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: All meals included

Relax and unwind with ample free time on this tour

Day Three | Split

highlights

Enjoy a special tasting of locally produced wines Walk around the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site of Trogir Tour underground Roman foundations beneath Split

diocletian

Diocletian built his palace in Split after his retirement It is a delightful fusion of ancient and modern, with the ancient imperial palace intertwined with medieval accretions.

guide lecturers John Shepherd is an archaeologist who has excavated all over Europe and was the curator at the Museum of London.

This day we explore the halls and cellars under Diocletian’s palace. In the afternoon we have free time to explore the fabulous local markets or rich history.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Split

We drive to the ancient site in Trilj, a city with a rich archaeological history. In the afternoon we visit Klis Castle built as a defense against the Ottomans.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Split

This morning we visit the Split Archaeological Museum and then travel to the ancient site of Salona with its bath complex and amphitheater.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Split

Today is ours to spend at our leisure. You can sample local products or even take a boat ride around the Dalmatian coast.

Hotel: Hotel Cornaro Meals: Breakfast included

Day Seven | Split

Today we visit Trogir, one of the best Romanesque cities in central Europe. We visit the medieval core to explore a number of sites, including the church of St Lawrence, and the cathedral.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Eight | Depart Split

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

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relaxed provence 16th - 22nd September 2019 | 7 Days from $3,303 (single supplement $495) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Guests at the town of Glanum

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he idyllic landscapes of Provence are home to some of Europe’s finest Roman remains. Triumphal arches, amphitheaters, theaters and aqueducts – at one and the same time, feats of engineering and a clear demonstration of power to the local Gallic tribes. Today, many of these monuments remain remarkably complete - from the magnificent amphitheaters at Arles and Nîmes to the ruins of Glanum - an abandoned Roman town dramatically sited in a cleft in the hills. Expert and archaeologists tell the story of the Romans in Provence, including Hannibal, Marius and even Julius.

highlights Enjoy the Roman architecture of Nîmes Relax in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Visit the renowned Roman theater in Orange View the ancient aftifacts at the Archaeological Museum Free time to absorb the atmosphere at your own pace

special access

We have privileged access to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Pont du Gard, as we have the opportunity to access the top level of the Roman aqueduct.

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GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

guide lecturers Mark Corney is an Honorary Research Fellow at Bristol University.

He was also a contributor to Channel 4’s “Time Team”.

itinerary Day One | Marseille

Arrive in Marseille and enjoy some free time before having dinner this evening.

Hotel: Overnight in Provence Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Provence

Our day begins in Nîmes, with visits including the Arena of Nîmes and the beautifully preserved temple faÇade at Maison Carrée. We also see the original spring of Nemausus.

Hotel: Overnight in Provence Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Provence

spending the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Hotel: Overnight in Provence Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Provence

The Roman past of Arles still seems remarkably close.

Here, we can marvel at the amphitheater and the Roman baths. We also explore the Archaeological Museum, home to wonderful exhibits and collections.

Hotel: Overnight in Provence Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Provence

Enjoy a free morning to explore Saint-Rémy-deProvence. We visit Glanum this afternoon, which was an oppidum and has played host to some fascinating excavations.

Hotel: Overnight in Provence Meals: All meals included

We begin with a visit to the spectacular aqueduct, Pont du Gard. We enjoy a private tour and have privileged access to walk along the water channel itself. We enjoy lunch beside this incredible site before an afternoon at leisure.

Hotel: Overnight in Provence Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Provence

Day Seven | Depart

Today we begin with a visit to Orange, home to a renowned Roman theater and triumphal arch. We then enjoy lunch in Châteaneuf-du-Pape before

Provence After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

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relaxed tuscany 2nd - 7th September 2019 | 6 Days from $3,295 (single supplement $525) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

View of Pienza

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wealth of archaeological sites are hidden amongst the rolling hills and golden landscapes of Tuscany.

The region has played host to countless civilizations for centuries. It all began with the Etruscans, but the Romans, medieval Christians, British aristocrats, and plundering Napoleon all share a space in the region’s fascinating history.

Based in a single hotel, we enjoy a combination of archaeological visits and free time to explore. Highlights include visits to the hilltowns of Arezzo and Cortona.

itinerary Day One | Florence

Arrive in Florence and enjoy some time to unwind, as no activities are planned. We have dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: Palazzo Leopoldo Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Val D’Elsa

Drive to the idyllic village of Pienza a UNESCO World Heritage Site

We spend all day in Siena, exploring the famous Cathedral and Palazzo Communale, home to impressive frescoes which have a clear Gothic influence.

In the afternoon you will have free time to explore the Piazza Del Campo.

Hotel: Palazzo Leopoldo Meals: All meals included

Tour a local Tuscan winery

Day Three | Val D’Elsa

highlights Explore the Palazzo Communale in Siena Admire the art and architecture in the city of Cortona Visit the Basilica of San Francesco in Arezzo

special access

Tuscany is the beating heart of the Renaissance and is the producer of some of its finest wine, olive oil and food. Relax amongst its splendors in our especially chosen hotel.

guide lecturers Dr. Agata Chrzanowska is an art historian who specializes in both Early Modern painting and in photography studies.

Today we visit Arezzo to explore the duomo and Casa Vasari. In the afternoon we admire the Basilica of San Francesco, a late medieval church famed for its Piero della Francesca frescoes.

Hotel: Palazzo Leopoldo Meals: All meals included

exploring the walled city of Cortona. During our time here, we visit the Etruscan Academy Museum and the Diocesan Museum. In the afternoon we visit the Etruscan tumuli at Sodo Melone, the fascinating burial place of the ancient city.

Hotel: Palazzo Leopoldo Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Val D’Elsa

Today we delight in the idyllic village of Pienza, listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site and built by Pope Pius II. Here we view its Duomo and palazzi. In the afternoon, we will have a tour of a local winery, the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

Hotel: Palazzo Leopoldo Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Depart Val

D’Elsa After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

Day Four | Val D’Elsa We devote our entire day

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celebrate christmas & new year The festive period is a time to reflect on the year that has passed as well as meditate on the year ahead. With this in mind, the holiday season is the perfect time to take a trip to remember. Experience a destination that will enchant your mind, delight your senses & leave you with lasting memories.

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St Peters Basilica at Christmas

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vienna at christmas 22nd - 27th December 2019 | 6 Days from $3,595 (single supplement $445) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Vienna skyline at sunset

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pend Christmas in the splendid capital of Austria.

Vienna is in many ways a cutting edge city, leading the world in design, architecture, contemporary art and more — but its rich history is even more captivating.

Wander in the footsteps of Elizabeth, Empress of Austria, across Baroque streetscapes and past imperial palaces; and discover the echoes of artistic and musical masterpieces waiting around every corner. Take a tour of the Naturhistorisches Museum to marvel at the Venus of Willendorf, and of course, wander the Christmas markets.

Day One | Vienna

Arrive in Vienna and enjoy some time to unwind before dinner this evening.

Hotel: Overnight in Vienna Meals: Lunch & dinner included

Day Two | Vienna

Discover the many delights of beautiful Vienna

We begin at the Naturhistorisches Museum, home to a remarkable prehistoric collection and where we will find the Venus of Willendorf. This afternoon we take a stroll through one of the Christmas markets.

Hotel: Overnight in Vienna Meals: All meals included

Enter the catacombs at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral

Day Three | Vienna

highlights Experience the pomp & ceremony of Hofburg Palace Revel in the atmosphere of the Christmas markets

Admire Klimt’s “The Kiss” at Schloss Belvedere

vienna

On Christmas day we have access to St. Stephens Cathedral, with its imposing tower and the underground tombs. This is a must-see sight for any tour of Vienna.

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itinerary

guide lecturers Dr. Kelli Ann Malone has a PhD in Anthropology and has been lecturing in archaeology and Irish history for over 25 years.

We drive out to Stift Melk, a Benedictine abbey overlooking the Danube.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was originally founded in 1089 and was a major production center for manuscripts. This afternoon we spend time at the former Imperial Summer Palace Schönbrunn, a Baroque building with a superb sculpted garden.

Hotel: Overnight in Vienna Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Vienna

For a relaxing morning on Christmas Day, we visit another atmospheric market and then continue to St. Stephens Cathedral.

Hotel: Overnight in Vienna Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Vienna

A day exploring Imperial Vienna, as we visit the Imperial Crypt beneath the Capuchin church, another resting place for members of the Habsburg dynasty.

This afternoon we will see the former winter palace Hofburg, former seat of the Habsburg dynasty and now housing the office of the President of Austria.

Hotel: Overnight in Vienna Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Depart Vienna

We spend our final morning in Vienna at the Schloss Belvedere, a historic building complex home to a world renowned art collection. After, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

www.andantetravels.com/vna

ravenna at christmas 21st - 27th December 2019 | 7 Days from $3,295 (single supplement $325) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

San Vitale Dome in Ravenna

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avenna and Aquileia, cities full of churches and residences replete with wonderful mosaics. While Italy struggled at the hands of barbarian invaders in the late antique period, the great walled cities, seemingly secure behind their defenses, enjoyed a golden age of creation.

The mists, lagoons and beautiful historic cities of the Po Valley make Ravenna a wonderful choice for a Christmas tour. We enjoy Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve, a very authentic Italian celebration.

highlights Enjoy Christmas in charming Grado, with an additional boat trip to the Sanctuary of Barbana Island Out-of-hours access to the Church of San Vitale Admire the medieval Abbey of Pomposa Explore the extraordinary Cathedral of Aquileia

private access guide lecturers

We have a special evening visit to the Basilica of San Vitale where we can admire the extraordinary mosaics of Justinian and Theodora all to ourselves.

Prof. Valerie Higgins Teaching at the American University of Rome, she is a specialist in the archaeology of human remains.

itinerary Day One | Ravenna

Upon arrival in Bologna, we transfer to our hotel in Ravenna.

Hotel: Hotel Bisanzio Meals: Dinner included

Abbey of Pomposa and visit Concordia Sagittaria before arrival at our next hotel in Grado.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Astoria Meals: All meals included

Day Two | Ravenna

Day Five | Grado

Today we explore the city of Ravenna and its remarkable collection of churches and monuments. This includes the Arian and Neonian Baptisteries, the Bishop’s Palace and to the Domus Dei Tappeti di Pietra.

Hotel: Hotel Bisanzio Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Ravenna

Today we visit the astounding Basilica of San Vitale and Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, along with the shimmering Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo. We end with a visit to Sant’ Apollinare in Classe, the ancient port of Ravenna.

Hotel: Hotel Bisanzio Meals: All meals included

Day Four

Ravenna - Grado After visiting the Mausoleum of Theodoric, we travel to the

Christmas day is spent exploring Grado and taking a boat ride to the Paleochristian monastery at Barbana Island.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Astoria Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Grado

Today we explore Aquileia to admire the Cathedral, the riverine port, as well as the Paleochristian Museum and National Archaeological Museum.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Astoria Meals: All meals included

Day Seven |Depart

Venice Our tour ends after breakfast.

Transfers to the airport can be arranged for you upon request.

Meals: Breakfast included

www.andantetravels.com/rac

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palermo

Festive Food & Archaeology

22nd - 27th December 2019 | 6 Days from $3,445 (single supplement $375) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturers/Tour Managers Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

View from the ancient amphitheater, Segesta

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real Sicilian adventure beckons. This glorious region is rich in both history and gastronomy. We bring stories of the past vividly back to life as our senses are treated to delicious local cuisine.

Experience the incredible archaeological sites to be found on this beautiful island. Take part in a traditional cookery class, where the secrets of local dishes are revealed, and sit down to meals that showcase the best culinary traditions of the region. This tour will bring us even closer to the culture & heritage of stunning Sicily.

highlights Learn the art of making marzipan fruit from the Frati Minimi in Palermo Enjoy a visit to the truly spectacular Cappella Palatina Stand beneath the columns of a Doric temple at Segesta Celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with traditional meals Sicilian style

guide lecturers Tony O’Connor has excavated widely in Britain, Italy and Africa.

He is deeply interested in the study of Roman coinage.

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Rosetta Ferrari lived in Italy for many years and speaks fluent Italian.

She has a great interest in food and culture.

itinerary Day One | Palermo Upon arrival in Palermo, we transfer to the hotel.

Enjoy some free time before having dinner as a group this evening.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa Meals: Dinner included

and the remains of a hilltop theater. After exploring this site we celebrate with a traditional Christmas lunch consisting of several courses..

Hotel: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa Meals: Breakfast, lunch & evening snack

Day Two | Palermo

Day Five | Palermo

Day Three | Palermo

Day Six | Depart Palermo

This morning we begin with a walk through the Vucciria, before our cookery class to prepare some local dishes.

After lunch we pay a very special visit to the Cappella Palatina.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa Meals: All meals included Christmas Eve begins at the Salinas Archaeological Museum, home to ancient Greek and Punic collections.

We walk through the vibrant Del Capo on our way to lunch. The afternoon is free.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Palermo

Christmas Day begins with a trip to Segesta, where we see the 5th century Doric temple

We visit the Catacombs of Ossuna and La Zisa, a summer residence built by Arab architects. We enjoy an aperitif in a sumptuous palazzo before our final dinner in Palermo.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa Meals: All meals included This morning we have a special lesson to learn the art of making marzipan fruits.

After lunch, we visit the Punic Necropolis and La Cuba. Our tour comes to an end this afternoon; transfers to the airport can be arranged for you upon request.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

www.andantetravels.com/paf

festive food in bologna 29th December 2019 - 4th January 2020 | 7 Days from $3,895 (single supplement $525) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturers Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

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iscover the home of tagliatelle, tortellini, mortadella, ragù and more. This unique tour will satisfy even the most voracious of appetites for food and for history! What better time could you find to taste the millennial fruits of culinary evolution than at Christmas? The Emilian menu includes some of Italy’s most famous products such as Parmesan cheese and Parma ham which have been made for over 2000 years, as well as the luxurious balsamic vinegar. This is an unusual tour for Andante - exploring the combination of the archaeological remains and gastronomic history of Bologna.

highlights Visit the Etruscan site of Marzabotto Travel to Ferrara and see the Archaeological Museum and Este Castle Make your own pasta in the company of an expert

Nettuno Square at Christmas

itinerary Day One | Bologna

Arrive in Bologna in time for a buffet lunch at our hotel; we then visit the Archaeological Museum.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: Lunch & dinner included

Day Two | Bologna

We start with a short walk through the old market streets before participating in a cookery course and make our own lunch. We then return to Bologna and include a visit to the Basilica of San Petronio.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Bologna

An early start takes us to an artisan factory to see the Experience the ‘burning of the old year’ on New Years Eve. production of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Afterwards we will sample traditional balsamic vinegar at its various guide lecturers stages of aging. We return to Bologna and visit the church complex of Santo Stefano.

Rosetta Ferrari Tony O’Connor lived in Italy for has excavated Tonight, we will celebrate many years and widely in Britain, New Years Eve as we enjoy speaks fluent Italian.

Italy and Africa. the `burning of the old year’.

She has a great interest in He is deeply interested in the Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti food and culture. study of Roman coinage.

Meals: All meals included Go on a truffle hunt with a local tartufaio and his dog

Day Four | Bologna A relaxed start to the day with a walk around Bologna exploring the many medieval towers. In the afternoon we drive to Modena and take a tour of the Duomo as well as the Archaeological Museum.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included Day Five | Bologna

Today starts with a walk in the hills with a local expert who will describe a typical truffle hunt. After lunch we head to the Etruscan site and museum at Marzabotto.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Bologna

Drive to Ferrara where we visit the Este Castle and the Archaeological Museum.

Hotel: Art Hotel Commercianti Meals: All meals included

Day Seven

Depart Bologna Enjoy some free time. After lunch, we transfer to the airport for our onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast & lunch included

www.andantetravels.com/bff

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venice

at New Year

27th December 2019 - 2nd January 2020 | 7 Days from $4,945 (single supplement $745) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Fireworks display at Piazza San Marco

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t the head of the Adriatic, lies the aethereal city of Venice. We explore the wonders that this island republic has produced, including its extraordinary churches, confraternities and industries. We also visit the darker side of Venetian history, namely its Ghetto. Finally, we visit the islands of Torcello, and Murano, famed for its glass production. This tour has special highlights, including private visits to its most important sites, exclusive boat rides, and it culminates in an extraordinary midnight excursion to the island of San Giorgio, a wonderful place to view the fireworks.

highlights Enjoy a private tour of the Doge’s Palace, including its prisons Spend New Year’s Eve enjoying the fireworks at a specially arranged boat trip to San Giorgio Take a private boat trip down the Grand Canal

special access

Enjoy an exclusive evening visit to the magnificent Saint Mark’s Basilica, with its 12th century mosaics and a wonderful tessellated floor.

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guide lecturers Dr. Eireann Marshall was raised in the Veneto and specializes in gender and North African studies.

itinerary Day One | Venice

Upon arrival in Venice, we visit the nearby site of Altinum, an ancient Roman coastal town. We then continue to our hotel.

Hotel: Hotel Saturnia Meals: Dinner only

St. Mark’s Basilica.

Hotel: Hotel Saturnia Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Venice

Today we travel to Torcello to admire its Byzantine basilica.

After lunch, we explore the nearby Island or Murano and its famous glass history.

Hotel: Hotel Saturnia Meals: All meals included

We consider the naval history, taking in the Arsenale and the Naval Museum, before exploring the area sailors would have worked, visiting San Giorgio dei Greci. The end the year with a spectacular dinner and firework display on San Giorgio.

Hotel: Hotel Saturnia Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Venice

Day Six | Venice

Day Two | Venice

We enjoy the most important churches of Venice by visiting San Giorgio, the Frari, Scuola Grande di San Rocco, Santi Giovanni e Paolo and finally Santa Maria dei Miracoli.

Hotel: Hotel Saturnia Meals: All meals included

Day Four | Venice

Today we have a private tour of the Doge’s Palace all morning. We then visit the Correr Museum in the afternoon, followed by a special access evening visit to

A more leisurely day, we walk to San Pantaleon and then explore the darker side of Venice with the Ghetto. We end the day with a private taxi ride down the Grand Canal.

Hotel: Hotel Saturnia Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Depart

Venice After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast only

www.andantetravels.com/vex

pompeii & naples

at New Year

28th December 2019 - 3rd January 2020 | 7 Days from $3,765 (single supplement $675) What’s Included Private Coach | Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

Flavian Amphitheater in Pozzuoli

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aples’ streets and buildings are full with life festooned with washing and, at this time of year, decorated with the elaborate cribs of the Neapolitan tradition. Explore the city - its wonderful churches and museums, and the astonishing remnants of the ancient city.

Then later in the tour, onto the incomparable Pompeii – destroyed, yet preserved, by Vesuvius in AD79. This will also be the time to experience a Neapolitan New Year – an unforgettable occasion.

highlights Visit Pompeii in all its glory whilst we have the city more or less to ourselves Explore the Piscina Mirabilis, an amazing ancient Roman cistern Visit the well-preserved Roman amphitheater in Pozzuoli Exploring underground Naples

itinerary Day One| Naples

Arrive in Naples and enjoy some time to unwind, as no activities are planned. We have dinner this evening as a group.

Hotel: San Francesco al Monte Meals: Dinner included

Day Two | Naples

We visit the Naples Archaeological Museum all morning and visit underground Naples in the afternoon, including San Lorenzo for its Roman market. We also visit the cloister of Santa Chiara, covered with fabulous maiolica tiles.

Hotel: San Francesco al Monte Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Naples

neapolitan new year Enjoy a sumptuous dinner on New Years’ Eve will be followed by a rooftop terrace view of spectacular fireworks.

guide lecturers John Shepherd is an archaeologist who has excavated all over Europe and was the curator at the Museum of London.

We devote our entire day to Pompeii, discovering the incomparable sights destroyed by Vesuvius.

Nowhere in the world offers a more comprehensive look at the compelling minutiae of Roman life.

Hotel: San Francesco al Monte Meals: Breakfast & dinner included

Day Four | Naples

We visit Herculaneum in the morning walking around the city almost to ourselves. In the afternoon, we explore the sumptuous Roman Villa at Oplontis.

Hotel: San Francesco al Monte Meals: All meals included

Day Five | Naples

After a leisurely morning, we visit the Catacombs of San Gennaro, the patron saint of Naples in the afternoon.

Hotel: San Francesco al Monte Meals: All meals included

Day Six | Naples

Today we visit the magnificent amphitheater of Pozzuoli in the morning and continue after lunch to the spectacular Piscina Mirabilis, the largest ancient cistern in Europe.

Hotel: San Francesco al Monte Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | Depart

Naples After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

www.andantetravels.com/nap

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egypt at new year

NEW Additional departure in November 2019

27th December 2019 - 4th January 2020 | 9 Days from $5,170 (single supplement $745) What’s Included Nile cruise on the MS Farah | Private Coach| Expert Guide Lecturer | Tour Manager Entry to all sites and museums | Meals as detailed | Porterage | Gratuities

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emples, tombs and mummies - ancient Egypt’s archaeology is among some of the world’s most revered and it is a great place to welcome in the new year with colorful streets, local entertainment and lavish food.

Starting our adventure in the heart of ancient Thebes, we sail south through Upper Egypt, before exploring ancient Egypt’s southern border. As New Year’s Eve falls during our Nile cruise, we will celebrate in style. The grand finale of this journey will be our visit to Egypt’s most impressive temple site, Abu Simbel, on the shores of Lake Nassar.

‘ONLY WITH ANDANTE’ EXTRAS Privileged access to the Valley of the Kings and Queens Explore rarely-visited sites in Western Thebes, such as the tomb of intriguing Pharaoh Ay

guide lecturers Lucia Gahlin is a specialist in the archaeology of Ancient Egypt and has been leading archaeological tours here for over 20 years. She is an Honorary Research Associate at University College London’s Institute of Archaeology. Lucia has worked at the Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology at UCL, and continues to teach with objects in this museum, one of the world’s most important collections of Egyptian antiquities. She has been a Trustee of the Egypt Exploration Society, is Chair of the Friends of the Petrie Museum and Co-Director of Bloomsbury Summer School at UCL. Her areas of special interest are Ancient Egypt’s social history, settlement of archaeology and the rituals of daily life.

Discover Abu Simbel, one of the most impressive temple sites Cruise the Nile aboard the MS Farah, while visiting the beautifullypreserved temples of Upper Egypt

special access

Included in our tour, we visit two of the most impressive tombs to survive from ancient Egypt. Seti I’s tomb is the longest and deepest in the Valley of the Kings. Re-opened in 2016, it is still one of the best decorated despite earlier damage. Nefertari was the favorite wife of Pharaoh Ramesses II and this reflected in the decoration of the tomb he built for her — the largest and most lavishly decorated in the Valley of the Queens.

Giza

Cairo

Egypt Karnak Valley of the Kings

Dendera Luxor Edfu Aswan Dam

Abu Simbel

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www.andantetravels.com/egx

***

Day Four | Luxor - Nile Cruise

Today is comprised of an unusually comprehensive day of visits to the Temples of Karnak, where we will discover the three temples of the Theban Triad (three Egyptian gods).

This spectacular, multi-period location has a wealth of historical and religious inscriptions at every turn. During our time here we will also see the Temples of Amun and Khonsu in the morning before checking into our next hotel - a boat - where we will stay for the next four nights. After lunch aboard our boat, we return to Karnak to explore the Temple of Mut - Amun’s consort and mother of their divine child Khonsu.

Hotel: MS Farah Meals: All meals included

Day Five | West Bank

We take in rarely visited sites on the Theban west bank this morning, including the Tomb of Ay in the Western Valley and the Temple of Seti I (the Qurna Temple). Ay was prime minister during Tutankhamun’s reign, how he succeeded to the throne on the death of the boy-king is shrouded in mystery. It is a rare treat to visit both the tomb and Theban Temple of the Great Pharaoh Seti I, father of Ramessus II. We return to our boat for lunch before an afternoon of cruising, before another evening lecture and delicious New Year’s Eve gala dinner.

Hotel: MS Farah Meals: All meals included

Day Six | West Bank Pharaohs at Abu Simbel

itinerary Day One | Luxor

Upon arrival into Luxor, we will transfer to our hotel.

Hotel: Sofitel Pavillon Winter Luxor Meals: Dinner or snack in hotel room (dependent on arrival time)

Day Two | Luxor

We begin our day of visits at a leisurely pace, starting with the fantastic Luxor Museum. A masterfully arranged collection of archaeological aftifacts and home to celebrated works of art, including the famous statue of Tuthmosis III. Our morning continues with a visit to Aboudi’s bookshop, which is the world’s best English language Egyptological bookshop. We return to our hotel after lunch for a lecture from our Guide, Lucia, to prepare us for our next temple visit. Ahead of this, there is an opportunity to stroll through the city’s souk. At Luxor Temple, we explore its avenue of sphinxes, military reliefs and papyrus columns.

Hotel: Sofitel Pavillon Winter Luxor Meals: All meals included

Day Three | Luxor

After breakfast we travel by boat and coach across the west bank to visit the Valley of the Kings. This was the final resting place of royals and nobility for almost 500 years, with excavations dating the site back as far as the 16th century BC. Its most notable occupant, of course, is King Tutankhamun, whose tomb was famously discovered by Howard Carter in 1922. We visit this famous burial chamber, followed by special access to the Tomb of Seti I. After stopping for lunch, we continue to the Valley of the Queens, where we also have special access to the Tomb of Nefertari, who was the wife of Pharaoh Ramesses II. Hotel: Sofitel Pavillon Winter Luxor Meals: All meals included

In the morning, we make our way to the Temples of the gods of Upper Egypt, starting with the Temple of Horus at Edfu.

One of the country’s most magnificently preserved shrines, the construction of which is thought to have spanned an incredible 180 years, from the 3rd to the 2nd century BC. Towering at a jaw-dropping 37 meters, its pylon - or gateway - is the highest among all of Egypt’s surviving temples, and is decorated with vivid scenes of King Ptolemy VIII destroying his enemies before Horus. This afternoon we explore the Temple of Sobek and Horus the Elder at Kom Ombo and the site’s museum.

Hotel: MS Farah Meals: All meals included

Day Seven | West Bank

Today, we disembark and make our way to ancient Egypt’s southern border and visit the impressive Temple of Isis in Philae. After, we move onto the Aswan Dam and then head back to the boat for lunch. In the afternoon, we visit the unfinished obelisk, which is still attached to granite as it was abandoned during its creation process. Later, we enjoy a sunset felucca ride to the Botanical Gardens on an island, where we enjoy a gentle stroll and a drink.

Hotel: MS Farah Meals: All meals included

Day Eight | West Bank - Abu Simbel - Cairo

It’s an early morning start as we transfer to Aswan airport and fly to Abu Simbel, located on the shores of Lake Nassar. Here, we make the most of our last day exploring what is considered to be Egypt’s most impressive temple site, home to the temples of Ramesss II and Nefertari. After lunch, we fly to Cairo and transfer to our hotel, where we will enjoy our final dinner together as a group.

Hotel: Le Meridien Cairo Airport Hotel Meals: All meals included

Day Nine | Depart Cairo

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our individual flights home or onward travel.

Meals: Breakfast included

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The very best of archaeology and history combined We have partnered with Historical Trips, our sister company, to offer a range of joint tours that will showcase fascinating archaeology as well as rich history...

You can view the full tour details online at: www.andantetravels.com/joint

castles of the rhineland

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highlights

Stunning castles, rich in history and heritage Indulge in this region’s wines with a special wine-tasting Tour sites of religious significance and admire the architecture

he magic of the stunning Rhineland in Germany awaits.

Dramatic castles perched on hilltops that overlook winding rivers, historic vineyards that are part of revered wineries, and undeniably rich history can be found here. From romantic ruins to castles still magnificently preserved, we visit a variety of architecturally and historically engaging sites as the expertise of our guide lecturer brings them vividly back to life. Special access to Trier cathedral, walking tours and cultural experiences are ours.

cathars & crusaders

highlights

Explore medieval townhouses at Cordes-sur-Ciel Sample typical local wines during a special tasting

medieval england

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highlights

See the most beautiful church in England, Beverley Minster Wander the ruins of the mighty castle of Scarborough Explore the impressive remains of Rievaulx Abbey

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rom castles and great abbeys to peasant villages – the medieval period has left a lasting mark on the English landscape.

Discover a world where displays of extravagance and power dominated the English countryside and where a focus on religion led to spectacular places of worship. Walk among magnificent monasteries and ragged ruins as you are transported back to the Middle Ages. Medieval England is an exploration of life in all echelons of society – and we uncover it all.

Visit the well-preserved fairytale Château de Foix

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anguedoc was once a thriving province in southwest France and the home of Catharism – an ascetic Christian sect that eschewed and threatened Rome’s power. In 1209, Pope Innocent III launched the Albigensian Crusade to eliminate the heretics of Languedoc. 20 years of fighting followed, leaving behind spectacular castles and abbeys, and fundamentally altering the religious landscapes of medieval Europe. Explore Cathar cities and Catholic abbeys, grand ruinous castles, and Carcassonne’s turrets.

study days for 2019 Whether a taster of a full Andante tour, or an opportunity to explore Britain’s archaeological history – our Study Day program offers a range of topics with behind-the-scenes access, led by expert guides.

Find out more about our upcoming 2019 Study Day here: www.andantetravels.com/studydays Creswell Crags, Derbyshire

“Our guide was a master of her subject and devoted time to making our day both enjoyable and enlightening.” - 2018 Study Day guest 167

2019 calendar Page

april romans, visigoths & viziers 1st - 8th

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pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 1st - 8th

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Page crete and santorini 7th - 14th dalmatia & dubrovnik 8th - 16th

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pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 9th - 16th

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classical sicily 1st - 11th

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16

uzbekistan | sites & cities along the silk road 6th - 19th

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bologna | food and archaeology 11th - 17th

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pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 13th - 20th

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crete and santorini 14th - 21st

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relaxed split 6th - 13th the etruscans 7th - 14th

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58

classical greece 7th - 16th

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42

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 8th - 15th

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albania - land of the eagles 12th - 20th

rome & the sistine chapel 11th - 16th

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62

classical sicily 16th - 26th

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latium | the roman rich 19th - 26th

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64

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48

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spain & portugal | roman lusitania 14th - 21st

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84

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 20th - 27th

tunisia | the punic wars 16th - 23rd

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dordogne | cave art 23rd - 29th

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crete and santorini 23rd - 30th pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 23rd - 30th

romans in the alps 20th - 27th

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epirus & macedonia | greece’s northern glories G 20th - 29th

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rock art of altamira 27th May - 3rd June

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82

provence | food & archaeology 13th - 20th

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june

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peru | machu picchu & the nazca lines 24th April - 10th May

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orkney and shetland 15th - 25th

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22

north cyprus 25th April - 2nd May

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walking hadrian’s wall 17th - 25th

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26

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walking hadrian’s wall 20th - 28th

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jordan | petra & the desert fortresses 30th April - 9th May

may

prehistoric ireland 23rd - 30th

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20

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 2nd - 9th

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chile & easter island 24th June - 9th July

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serbia | land of the iron emperors 2nd - 9th

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orkney and shetland 25th June - 5th July

22

classical sicily 2nd - 12th

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july

romania 4th - 13th

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classical greece 5th - 14th pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 6th - 13th

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dordogne | cave art 1st - 7th

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prehistoric ireland 21st - 28th

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G Guaranteed Departures

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august

Page pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 23rd - 30th

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scottish islands and highlands 7th - 15th

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australia - aboriginal rock art 16th - 27th

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epirus & macedonia | greece’s northern glories 23rd September - 2nd October

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86

crete and santorini 24th September - 1st October

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voyages to antiquity | mediterranean odyssey 26th August - 9th September

israel & palestine 24th September - 4th October

september

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92

spain & portugal | roman lusitania 1st - 8th

84

classical sicily 26th September - 6th October

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relaxed tuscany 2nd - 7th

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albania | land of the eagles 27th September - 5th October

48

76

puglia & basilicata 28th September - 6th October

70

dordogne | cave art 2nd - 8th

72

chile & easter island 2nd - 17th

132

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 30th September - 7th October

brittany | carnac & beyond 2nd - 8th

albania, kosovo and montenegro 5th - 13th

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50

classical sicily 5th - 15th

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voyages to antiquity |italian & adriatic highlights 5th - 20th

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romans, visigoths and viziers 9th - 16th

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crete revisited 30th September - 7th October

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october crete and santorini 1st - 8th

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pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 1st - 8th

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80

rock art of altamira 9th - 16th

classical greece 3rd - 12th

82

16

rock art of the french alps 10th - 14th

classical sicily 3rd - 13th

78

crete and santorini 10th - 17th

100

18

uzbekistan | cities & sites along the silk road 5th - 18th

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 10th - 17th

12

classical greece 10th - 19th rome & the sistine chapel 14th - 19th

the aegean coast of turkey 5th - 15th

G

42

88

bulgaria | thracians & churches 5th - 16th

34

42

latium - the roman rich 6th - 13th

64

62

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 7th - 14th

12

roman germany 15th - 24th

G

28

relaxed provence 16th - 22nd

G

154

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 16th - 23rd

12

the etruscans 16th - 23rd

58

albania & macedonia | via egnatia 7th - 15th

G

52

crete and santorini 8th - 15th

18

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 8th - 15th

12

G

90

jordan | petra and the desert fortresses 8th - 17th

peru | machu picchu & the nazca lines 18th September - 4th October

128

tunisia | the punic wars 10th - 17th

classical sicily 19th - 29th

16

classical sicily 10th - 20th

north east turkey 18th - 28th

G

G

96 136

G

16

169

2019 calendar Page china | beyond the great wall 11th - 26th October

G

108

maltA & GOZO 14th - 20th October

40

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 14th - 21st

12

rock art in the namibian wilds 15th - 28th October

G

Page

november sri lanka 2nd - 15th

G

104

mexico | the maya 4th - 18th

G

120

egypt | land of the pharaohs 8th - 18th

G

144

140

112

crete and santorini 15th - 22nd

japan | a land of contrasts 9th - 23rd

18

south cyprus 17th - 23rd

12

38

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 12th - 19th

classical sicily 17th - 27th

16

tunisia | the punic wars 14th - 21st

136

belize and guatemala 19th November - 1st December

124

egypt | land of the pharaohs 18th - 28th

G

144

relaxed split 19th - 26th

153

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 21st - 28th

12

ravenna & aquileia 21st - 28th

56

north cyprus 24th - 31st

36

ethiopia | the african empire 28th October - 8th November

G

pompeii, herculaneum & classical campania 28th October - 4th November

148 12

december ravenna at christmas 21st - 27th

159

palermo | festive food and archaeology 22nd - 27th

160

vienna at christmas 22nd - 27th

158

rome at christmas 22nd - 27th

62

venice at new year 27th December - 2nd January

162

egypt at new year 27th December - 4th January

164

pompeii and naples at new year 28th December - 3rd January

163

festive food in bologna 29th December - 4th January

161

looking to 2020 north india

armenia & georgia

native american pueblos

Lose yourself in India’s exotic traditions, stunning works of art and fascinating architecture. Enjoy early morning boat trip, explore both Old and New Delhi and tour of the majestic Taj Mahal.

Traverse dramatic landscapes, from lush sub-tropics to semi-desert steppes.

Discover Georgia’s ancient wine-making tradition and see exquisite metalwork and jewelry from the Bronze Age.

Visit Mesa Verde, the largest archaeological preserve in the USA and journey to Chaco Canyon, capital of the vast region around the ‘Four Corners’ of New Mexico.

January & December 2020 | 18 Days From $6,665 (single supplement $1,740) Led by Dr. Mehreen Chida-Razvi

4th - 18th June 2020 | 15 Days From $5,295 (single supplement $865) Led by Ian Colvin

May & September 2020 | 14 Days From $6,625 (single supplement $1,445) Led by Dr. Stephen Lekson

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booking conditions your holiday contract

cancellation by us

data protection act

the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your

of departure, you will have the choice of taking an

arrangements run smoothly and meet your requirements

party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract

alternative holiday (and paying or receiving a refund/

we need to use the information you provide (such as

will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice.

credit in respect of any price difference) or accepting a full

name, address, passport information, email address,

Once you have received your confirmation invoice, it is

refund of all monies paid.

mobile number any special needs/dietary requirements,

When you make a booking you guarantee that you have

your responsibility to check that the information and booking details, including the spelling of all passenger names, as stated on your invoice are correct and match the

If we have to cancel your holiday before the date

financial protection

To process your booking and to ensure that your travel

etc.).

Any such personal data that you provide will be held

Flight inclusive tours: we hold an Air Travel Organiser’s

securely and for the purpose you have provided it, in

passport details. If any of the details on the confirmation

Licence issued by the CAA (ATOL No. 3552) which

accordance with both the Data Protection Act 2018 and

invoice are incorrect, you must notify us immediately. We

provides for your protection in the event of Andante’s

the General Data Protection Regulation 2016/679.

will pass on any additional charges incurred as a result

insolvency. The price of your air holiday packages

We take full responsibility for ensuring that proper

of these details not being correct. We reserve the right to

includes the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) we pay

security measures are in place to protect your information.

refuse to accept and/or not proceed with any booking at

to the CAA.

We must pass the information on to the relevant suppliers

any time at our sole discretion.

This charge is included in our advertised prices, the ATOL

of your travel arrangements such as airlines, hotels,

Protection Contribution (APC) we pay to the CAA. This

transport companies, etc. We will not however, pass any

charge is included in our advertised prices. When you buy

information on to any person not responsible for part of

For bookings made by telephone or email, payment can be

an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from

your travel arrangements. This applies to any sensitive

made by card or cheque (payable to Andante Travels Ltd).

us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what

information that you give to us such as details of any

You can pay securely via our website, in either sterling or

is financially protected, where you can get information

disabilities, or dietary/religious requirements. In making

dollars. We accept Visa, MasterCard and Visa Debit cards

on what this means for you and who to contact if things

a booking, you consent to this information being passed

(American Express accepted for all payments in $). There

go wrong.

on to the relevant persons only.

book by phone, by email or online

is no credit card fee for guests. We do not accept postdated cheques, nor do we keep your card details.

our price promise

We may need to disclose personal data to a third party Not all holiday or travel services offered and sold by us

within countries outside the European Economic Area

will be protected by the ATOL scheme as explained below.

(EEA) for the purpose of providing your holiday. Controls on data protection in your destination may not be as

It is our principle that the earlier you book, the lower the

Tours without flights arranged by us: The Association

stringent as in the UK. In addition, your data may be

price you pay. When we launch our new holidays our

of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT)

disclosed to regulatory bodies or public authorities such

lowest prices are made available to give you the very

provides financial protection under the Package Travel,

as customs or immigration for the purposes of monitoring

best value for money. It pays to book early as prices can

Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992

and/or enforcing compliance with any regulatory rules/

increase as the departure date approaches.

for Andante Travels, and in the event of their insolvency,

codes.

protection is provided for the following:

We will only send you information about special offers,

1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to

brochures, new holidays and competitions if you have

For the vast majority of our tours, the program will be

the UK;

‘opted in’ to receive news from Andante Travels Ltd. If

exactly as described in the brochure. Occasionally we do

2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a

you do not wish to receive this information, you can use

make changes to the order or number of visits. This is

country other than the UK; and

the ‘unsubscribe’ function at the bottom of any email

usually due to opening hours, or in order to include a

3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the

communication or just let us know.

re-opened site or museum. We always tell guests in

UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK.

For full details of how we may use your personal

advance of any changes.

1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not

information and your rights in relation to your personal

yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note

information, please see our Privacy Policy on our website:

that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by

https://andantetravels.com/privacy

ABTOT when purchased directly with Andante Travels.

By booking online, or over the phone, you are stating that

program changes

insurance

We strongly recommend that all travellers are covered by comprehensive travel insurance and do not travel against medical advice. You should organise it immediately when you book, to ensure you have cover against possible cancellation charges, medical treatment and repatriation.

Balance payment

aito quality charter

you have read and agreed to our Privacy Policy. A copy of which can be found here:

Andante Travels is a member of the Association of

https://andantetravels.com/privacy

Independent Tour Operators. The Association represents

A copy can also be requested and supplied via email

Britain’s leading independent tour operators and

during the booking process.

encourages high standards of quality and service.

Balance payments will be requested 12 weeks before you

Andante Travels abides by the Association’s Code of

We are ANDANTE TRAVELS LTD, registered limited

depart for all tours and we will then send you practical

Conduct and adheres to the AITO Quality Charter which

company no. 1969761. Registered offices: The Clock

information regarding the tour, flights, hotel and joining

can be viewed on www.aito.com. Visit the website to find

Tower, Unit 4 Oakridge Office Park, Southampton Road,

instructions.

out more about the Association or call 020 8744 9280.

Whaddon, Salisbury, SP5 3HT.

cancelation by you

what’s included

New York Office:

• Expert Guide Lecturer

271 Madison Avenue, Suite 904, New York,

made varies with the amount of time between Andante

• Tour Manager (with all groups of 15+)

NY 10016.

Travels receiving your written cancellation and the tour

• 3 - 5* Accommodation

departure

• Dinners including tea/coffee after dinners

date. The charges made for our tours are as follows:

• Field notes, tips, entrance to all sites in the program

In the event of cancellations the charge which will be

Full Booking Conditions are available on our website:

• Up to 84 days before departure date: deposit

www.andantetravels.co.uk/Booking-Conditions or call

• 83 – 63 days before departure date: 35% of

our Sales team: +1 (844)-829-5813

tour cost

• 62 – 42 days before departure date: 55% of tour cost • 41 – 21 days before departure date: 75% of

tour cost

• 21 days before departure date: 100% of

tour cost.

Penalties are also levied on the single supplement.

Insurance is recommended.

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SPECIALIST Journeys Quality, Specialist Group Travel

Quality Specialist Group Travel ARCHAEOLOGY | HISTORY | WINE | SCENIC GARDENS | CHARITY CHALLENGES | PRIVATE GROUP TOURS

archaeological tours

Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours

To find out more about any of our companies contact us 01722 569541 | www.specialistjourneys.com

Call our friendly sales team today: +1 (833)-941-2908 If you have any questions about the tours featured within this brochure – including full, day-by-day itineraries – or to secure your place on the holiday of a lifetime, please visit our website: www.andantetravels.com

271 Madison Avenue, Suite 904, New York, NY 10016.

Tel: +1 (833)-941-2908 | tours@andantetravels.com | www.andantetravels.com

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