Cultural Enrichment
European cultures encompass a kaleidoscope of traditions, customs, lifestyles, and beliefs, offering a captivating experience for travelers. Its common thread of family first, sets hospitality as a cornerstone of the way of life, ensuring travelers are welcomed with open arms.
Modern-day Europeans may call themselves Italians, Turks, or Germans but many current geo-political borders stem from the last two centuries, crafted by treaties and alliances born out of necessity. Embedded within European societies are roots that run deep, tracking back to ancestral villages and valleys, each brimming with dialects, age-old traditions, and a distinctive ‘way of life’ unique to its heritage. Yet Europe has also evolved. Shaped by waves of emigration from former colonies, and neighboring nations, creating an even more fascinating mix of cultural influences.
For travelers venturing from ‘new countries’ these timeless traditions and modern-day adaptations are a cultural conundrum. In our curated ‘Your Choice’ experiences, we invite you to explore the culturally fascinating, from Salvador Dali’s eccentric Mausoleum, where giant eggs sit rooftop, to a tour focused on the complexities of ‘The Troubles, in Londonderry where a former feud dictates which side of ‘the fence’ you live on. From the story of the townspeople who provided refuge for artists fleeing persecution, to the hilltop village whose century old traditions have crafted the world’s most popular perfumes. Join us as we embark on a journey of Europe’s cultural fabric, which is as diverse as it is enduring.
The Sultans of Sultanahmet
Greece & Turkey: Turkish Delight
We disembark and meet our guides for a local’s view of Istanbul. Catching a ride on one of Istanbul’s popular trams, we head to the hilltop suburb of Sultanahmet, where we spend the afternoon with Constantinople’s iconic trifecta: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. As we explore the Sultan’s precinct, our guides tell tales of the city’s celebrated past. We admire the venerated Blue Mosque*, renowned for its six minarets and iconic blue Iznik tiles, while our guides explain the profound influence of the Islamic faith on the lives of the city’s inhabitants. Just steps away is the Aya Sofya, or the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque*, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Originally built as the “greatest church in Christendom”, the Hagia Sophia now stands as a testament to time and the dynamic history of the city.
The highlight of our afternoon is a visit to the Sultan’s private residence, Topkapi Palace. Here, we explore the state rooms, museum and grounds of this opulent palace. Designed to reflect a tented lodge, Topkapi captures the essence of the nomadic Ottoman lifestyle in a permanent structure. Libidinous sultans, ambitious courtiers, attractive concubines and scheming eunuchs lived and worked here for four centuries when Constantinople was the heart of the Ottoman Empire. A visit to the palace’s opulent pavilions, jewel-filled treasury, and sprawling grounds offers a fascinating glimpse into their lives.
Tapas hopping in San Sebastián
Lisbon to Amsterdam: A European Spring
Welcome to the vibrant city of San Sebastián renowned for its delectable treats. That’s right – it’s tapas time! Tapas, or pintxos as they are known in San Sebastián, offer more than just a meal; they provide a culinary journey that captures the essence of Basque culture. The secret to eating pintxos like a local is to master the txikiteo, a Basque-style food crawl. We split into groups and join a local guide to embark on a txikiteo adventure through the city’s colonnaded plaza and streets, where each bar offers its own specialties. Savor the rich flavors of jamón ibérico, the creamy delight of croquetas, and the tangy bite of boquerones. Pair these with a glass of local txakoli wine or a refreshing cider to enhance the experience. Enjoy every bite and make the most of this delightful lunch stop in one of Spain’s most gastronomically celebrated cities.
Life on the land – past and present
Ireland: The Luck of the Irish
Ireland & Scotland: Saints, Saviors and Secrets
We delve into the rural life of the Dingle Peninsula, visiting ‘famine cottages’ and meeting the resilient shepherds and their trusty sheepdogs. Our scenic drive traces the dramatic cliffs of the peninsula before venturing into the farmlands of Dingle, where generations of farmers have weathered storms, disease, and famine. The Kavanagh family’s story mirrors the struggles of 19th-century Ireland, marked by extreme poverty and the devastating impact of the potato blight. Amidst tales of survival, we witness a sheepdog demonstration, marveling at their skillful herding. As we gaze upon the deserted Blasket Islands, evacuated in 1953, we’re reminded of the islanders’ resilience, immortalized in the Blasket Centre’s interactive museum. Their stories, told in ‘real Irish,’ highlight their tenacity, leaving a lasting impression before we return to the ship.