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Eat well, drink well in the Veneto region

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Sure, pasta is king in Italy, but in the Veneto region, pasta takes a backseat to polenta and risotto. You are on the coast, so there is plenty of great seafood, including squid ink risotto and fabulously prepared octopus. You could be basking in the glory of the region and enjoying great food as well as Prosecco and special wine selections if you travel with GetAway on our group trip to the Greek Islands followed by our bonus Veneto trip in 2027.

Balcony at Juliet House – Verona

Salute! Great drinking choices

 The Veneto region is slightly smaller than the other wine-producing regions in Italy, but it generates more wine then any of the other regions. It is a geographically transitional area so the climate differences create areas where specific grapes can flourish.

Vineyard landscape in Soave

The region can be split into three different producing areas. The Northwest is the foothills of the Alps. The cooler climate gives fresh, crisp whites. In that same area, just north of Verona is Valpolicella and the subregion of Valpantena — giving us fruity intense reds, like Amerone. Traveling east of Valpolicella is Soave, home of the dry, white wine.

Vicenza gardens

Vicenza and Padua are in central Veneto and Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Nero are produced there.

Anytime is a good time for Prosecco

Prosecco reigns supreme in the Northeast region. In 2019 this area received a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation for its continued stellar production of Prosecco. Sweeter than champagne with bigger bubbles, Prosecco holds the lively taste of apple, pear, lemon rind, perhaps a hint of light flowers and even tropical fruit.

Sunset on the Piave River

The Northeast corner on either side of the Piave River, in the areas of Verona and Treviso is also the leading producer of Grappa. Using grape seeds, stalks and stems left over from the wine-making process, gives us the intensely flavored Grappa. Designed to be sipped after a hearty meal, it is served in a smaller glass and has a higher alcohol content than wine.

Grappa!

There are a number of wine route/Prosecco tours you can take, or take advantage of the many vineyard tours available in the region.

 

Aperoal Spritz is great on a hot day

We would be remiss if we didn’t talk about the spritz. Order it in any bar, it is three parts Prosecco, and two parts Aperol (an Italian bitter make with gentian, rhubarb and cinchona — it has an orange hue) or two parts Campari (a pinkish bitter made with fruit and herbs).

 Mangia! Savor the cuisine

 Sure, you can get the traditional pasta in the Veneto region, but it takes a backseat to polenta and risotto. The pasta you get here is bigoli, a thick spaghetti made with buckwheat or whole wheat and eggs.

Bigoli pasta with duck meat sauce

Polenta is served as a side dish with meat and game. It looks like grits when served, or is formed, then sliced and toasted. It is made of corn ground finer than traditional polenta found in the United States and it is often white rather than yellow.

Mixing up a big batch of Polenta

There are substantial rice paddies around Verona where the paddy fields are flooded and irrigated by the River Tartaro. The rice is cultivated along strict guidelines and carries the country’s status of PGI or Protected Geographic Indication.

Radicchio Rossi di Treviso

Radicchio, grown near Treviso, also carried the PGI designation. Radicchio Rossi di Treviso is unique to this region. It can only be grown in limited areas around Venice because it requires nutrient-rich soil and spring waters. It also has strict cultivation processes including harvesting. Certain varieties are harvested and the heads tied and kept in darkness for two weeks. Another cultivation method involves harvesting and then washing the heads over and over again in tanks of water

It is served grilled with olive oil, which removes much of the bitterness, as a poultry stuffing, with pasta or in a tapenade.

Treviso

If you are offered the chance to have a dish that includes white asparagus, don’t pass it up. It has a milder, sweeter flavor than its green counterpart. It grows underground in the perfect sandy soil around Treviso.

Mussels

You’re near the coast, so expect mussels, crabs, anchovies, sprat (herring-like fish) and octopus.

Sarde in Saor

A great bonus is that there is a variety of fabulous cuisines in different areas. In Vicenza, try the asiago cheese. Creu is a hot horseradish sauce that usually accompanies meat and sometimes stew. It is made by mixing fresh horseradish with bread crumbs, vinegar and olive oil. Baccalà alla Vicentina is stockfish (an air-dried variety of fish) cooked with onions, olive oil, sardines, milk, cheese and parsley served with polenta.

Pandora cake

Enjoy rich stews in Verona with polenta as a side. Brasata all’amerone is beef braised in wine and pastissada de caval is a horse meat stew. For dessert, Pandora, a brioche style cake dusted with powdered sugar.

Oca

Padua options include lots of tasty chicken dishes as well as Oca in Padovana, a rich goose dish. You’ll find horse meat on the menu here, included with pasta, risotto or cut in small dried strips and put on pizza.

Squid ink Risotto

Depending where you are, you can order bigoli in salsa which is pasta in anchovy sauce, risotto al Nero di seppia which is risotto with cuttlefish ink, sarde in saor (sardines preserved in a sweet and sour marinade) and baccalà mantecato which is (oddly enough) North Atlantic salt cod soaked, cooked in milk and then pounded with olive oil to make a mousse or pate. It is eaten with polenta.

Focaccia

Risi e bigi is risotto with peas and pancetta. Try the focaccia, oven-baked bread topped with a variety of ingredients. Salvia Fritter is fried sage leaves. The leaves are lightly battered in a batter of flour, olive oil, egg whites and salt, fried and then sprayed with salt.

Cichéti, small plates like tapas

 Bar patrons out in the afternoon take advantage of cichéti at bars called bàcari. With a glass of wine or a spritz, enjoy small servings usually accompanied by some type of crostini. Polpettes are one of the popular items, small meat or fish balls. A version of sarde in saor is also served. It is usually sardines fried in oil and then flavored with raisins, pine nuts and white wine vinegar. It hits all the notes — sweet, savory, sour and salty. There may be sandwiches, little squids, hard-boiled eggs, olives, vegetables and items served on polenta.

Hungry for travel? Thirsty for adventure?

GetAway Travel has just the answer. Give our travel advisors a call and start your vacation plans, (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Art, history, cuisine make Veneto region a top destination

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The Veneto region of Italy is the northeastern area and it is the eighth largest region in the country. It was part of the powerful Venetian Republic for 1,000 years, from the 7th to the 18th century. The region has the most varied geography of any area in Italy. There’s an alpine region, hilly region, the plains and a coastal region. It is bounded by the Dolomite Mountains and the Adriatic Sea. The capital of the Veneto region is Venice,

Enough of the nuts and bolts stuff. Prosecco is created in the Veneto region and tiramisu was invented here. It was the major center of the Renaissance movement. You can’t throw a rock without hitting a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fabulous art gallery or a great museum. And, here’s the best news — GetAway Travel has Veneto region destinations on one of our planned group trips for 2027!

Padua, paving the way to the Renaissance

 Quaint streets, stylish cafés and a vibrant culture are attributes of this city credited with bringing naturalism to the country. No where is that more evident than in the Scrovegni Chapel. This UNESCO World Heritage site is Padua’s version of the Sistine Chapel. Hailed as one of Italy’s great Renaissance masterpieces, it took Giotto two years to complete. Dante, da Vinci and Vasari credit the fresco with bringing an end to the Dark Ages. It portrays biblical figures in humanistic depictions. The entire surface of the chapel is used to narrate the story of Christ from the Annunciation the Ascension. The chapel’s vaulted ceiling is a blue mantle of stars and a sculptural grouping of Madonna with child between two angels was done by sculptor Giovanni Pisano.

Scrovegni Chapel with masterpiece frescos by Giotto

St. Anthony is such a popular saint in the area that the Basilica of St. Anthony in Padua is actually a whole complex that includes fabulous artwork and a convent. It took 70 years to complete the church. There are nine separate chapels with gorgeous frescoes.

Basilica of St Anthony – Padua.  Construction began 1 year after St Anthony died in 1231

Palazzo Bo is a Renaissance mansion that is the seat of Padua University, one of the oldest universities in the world. The university employed some the world’s greatest and most controversial thinkers such as Galileo, Copernicus and Casanova. The university recognized the first female doctor of philosophy, Eleonora Lucrezia Cornaro Piscopia. University tours include the world’s first anatomy theatre and the Aula Magna, the great hall where Galileo lectured.

Interior courtyard – Palazzo del Bo

The university is the reason for another UNESCO World Heritage site in the city, the world’s first botanical garden. Created in 1545, it retains its original layout and the more than 6,000 plant species were created to study the medicinal properties of plants and herbs.

Padua – one of the oldest cities in Northern Italy

Verona: Italy’s “Little Rome”

 Dubbed “Little Rome” because of the large number of artifacts at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is a lovely mix of Roman, Medieval and Renaissance influences. Surrounded by fields of rice, and we’ll talk about the cuisine later, the city has its own amphitheater. Built around 30 AD, it is better preserved than the amphitheater in Rome.

Duomo di Verona

Shakespeare was so impressed by Verona he made the city the backdrop for “Romeo and Juliet” as well as “Two Gentlemen of Verona.”

Balcony at Juliet House – Verona

Casa di Giulietta or Juliet’s house, is a 13th century Gothic style house once owned by the Capello Family. You can tour the rooms which retain their traditional medieval style, visit the tiny — but famous — balcony and admire the artwork in the house. There is a statue of Juliet outside and tradition has that if you touch her breast, it will bring you good luck.

Statue of Juliet in Verona

Castelvecchio Museum is a fortress turned museum. Built in the 14th century, it was turned into two museums by architect Carlo Scarpa. It houses an impressive collection of art from the Medieval and Renaissance periods including paintings, sculptures, weapons and ceramics.

Castelvecchio Bridge and Castle in Verona

Climb the Torre dei Lamberti in the heart of Verona. Erected in the 12th century, it is the tallest building in Verona and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and countryside. It’s 368 steps to the top, or take the elevator.

Torre dei Lamberti Verona

Explore the city’s history at the Roman Theater Archeological Museum.

Vicenza: City of Palladio

 The city is known for its elegant building designed by famed 16th century architect Andrea Palladio. The sites include the Palladian Basilica, Palazzo Chiericati, palaces, public buildings, religious building and 16 magnificent villas. UNESCO recognized his distinctive style by making the City of Palladio a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Statue on top of Pacifica Palladinia Vicenza

The Olympic Theatre was built in 1580. Inspired by Roman theaters, it was Palladio’s final project. The elliptical shaped theatre creates the illusion of streets receding into a distant horizon.

The stunningTeatro Olimpico – Vicenza

Need some green and calm? Parco Querini is an oasis of calm. The 24-acre park includes manicured gardens, a gazebo in the middle of a pond and a tree-lined avenue off the Southwest side of the pond lined with a series of statues.

Parco Querini – Vicenza

The Church of Santa Corona was built by the Dominicans in the 13th century to house what they believed were relics from Christ and the Crown of Thorns.

Treviso: A cooler, calmer Venice

 The walled city of Treviso, with its quaint cobblestone streets, intricate set of canals and cute little bridges, is the other Venice. It’s a city surrounded with rich countryside where radicchio and Prosecco reign supreme, where tiramisu was invented and where high-end clothing manufacturers abound.

Main gate into Treviso

The scenic canals here are bordered with modern public art installations.

The famous fountain here is the Fontana Delle Tette. At the election of each new mayor the fountain would let city residents have free red or white wine, dispensed from the breasts of the statue in the fountain. Now, it only dispenses water the actual original fountain is housed under glass in the Palazzo dei Trecento.

Fontana Delle Tette Treviso – only water, no wine

The Treviso Cathedral is magnificent. It has seven domes and the majestic columned exterior has a wide entry staircase flanked by lions. The interior has stunning frescoes and artwork, including Titian’s masterpiece “Malchiostro Annunciation.”

Treviso Cathedral

The Museo di Santa Caterina has an outstanding art collection including some modern works from the 19th and 20th century. It is a beautifully restored former church and convent.

The Chiesa di Santa Lucia, the church of St. Lucy, is a small church, but its walls and vaulted ceiling are covered with beautiful frescoes.

Treviso

These destinations are part of GetAway Travel’s Discover the Veneto portion of our Aegean Sunset to Venetian Canals tour, and advisors are ready to help you sign up for that trip, or plan a trip of your own. Stop by later to read about the fabulous cuisine and wine that awaits you in the Veneto region and we’ll also tell you about our planned stops in the Aegean portion of the trip.

Interested in booking a place now or planning your own trip? We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

 

 

 

Bergen: Norway’s gateway to the fjords and more

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Norway’s second largest city is the gateway to the country’s largest fjords, but it also has great apple orchards, national parks, a picturesque harbor that is a UNESCO World Heritage, and a lively cultural scene. Bergen is actually a college town with 10% of the residents attending the university. The University of Bergen is an internationally recognized research facility, especially in the areas of marine science, climate and global health.

Bergen waterfront

Interested in visiting a stone fortress, fjords that stretch for miles with gorgeous scenery and art museums considered the best of any Nordic country? Then Bergen is for you and GetAway Travel will help you get there.

Historic coastal location

 Oslo is the gateway to Norway, but Bergen is the gateway to the country’s amazing fjords. Bergen’s history goes back to the 14th century Hanseatic League’s trading empire.

Bergen, Norway

Bryggen, the harbor district of Bergen, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tall, skinny townhouses frame the wharf. The colorful, wooden houses remind visitors that Bryggen was once a trading center. The tiny alleys between the houses are lined with eclectic artisan shops where visitors can get amazing pottery, jewelry, artwork as well as textile and leather crafts.

Chrsite Mill, Bergen

The Hanseatic Museum and Schøtstuene has exhibits that detail the lives and work of the merchants who traded here.

Bergen Funicular

Travel further into the city and take the Fløubanen Funicular, a cable car railway, up to the top of  Mount Fløyen for spectacular views of the harbor and city. There’s also the Troll Forest with its hidden troll sculptures as well as a restaurant, cafe and gift shop.

Bergen Fish Market

Since the 1200s, Bergen’s fish market has been a meeting place for fishermen and merchants. Find fresh fish, seafood, produce, baked goods, handicrafts, souvenirs, food stalls and restaurants here.

Bergenhus Fortress

The Bergenhus Fortress stands guard at the entrance to Bergen’s harbor. The main building of the fortress is Norway’s first castle, built between 1242 and 1261. It was also a royal residence. Check out King Håkon’s Hall, climb the Rosenkrantz Tower for breathtaking views of the city and the on-site museum has exhibits and artifacts detailing the history of the fortress.

Kode Art Museum

The Kode Art Museum is one of the largest museums for art, design and music in the Nordic countries.

It is actually a collection of four galleries with artwork from classic Norwegian painters as well as contemporary international art exhibits. Kode 1 has 19th century Norwegian artworks including works by Edvard Munch. The Kode complex includes historic homes like Troldhaugen, the some of composer Edvard Grieg and Lysøen, the villa that violinist Ole Bull called home.

The fabulous fjords

The country’s most memorable fjords are in the Bergen area. Don’t think of a fjord as a rut carved into the ground by a glacier. Think steep cliffs, crystal clear deep blue water, towering cliffs and lush greenery and you’ll realize why Norway has fjords that are called the king and queen of fjords.

Hardangerfjord

The juxtaposition of waterfalls, greenery and snow-capped mountains is awe-inspiring.

Hardangerfjord is the country’s second largest fjord and considered the queen of fjords. It is flanked by picturesque fruit orchards and waterfalls. Quaint little villages, Eidfjord, Lofthaus and Ulvik are near the fjord.

Sognefjord

The King of fjords is Sognefjord and the longest beautiful stretch of the fjord is called Nærøyfjord which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The longest and deepest fjord is best viewed on a boat tour or on the Flåm Railway.

Some other Norway options

Alesund is chock full of colorful, charming homes. It is known as the adventure capital of the fjords. It sits among several islands with the majestic Summøre Mountains rising in the back. Early in the 20th century, a fire burned for 16 hours throughout the town destroying the entire city center. Three years of rebuilding with care taken to include art nouveau architecture earned Alesund a membership in the “Résean Art Nouveau Network.”

Alesund Norway

The starting point for fjord exploration is Flåm. The Flåm Railway takes you through steep mountains, into valleys and past cascading waterfalls for truly memorable views. Visit the Aegir Brewery and sample craft beer inspired by Viking traditions.

Flam, Norway

Tromso is the gateway to the Arctic. This vibrant city is known as the best place to experience Northern Lights. Located just above the Arctic Circle, it is home to what is billed as the world’s northernmost brewery. The Mack Brewery also has 12 Norwegian beers on tap.

Tromso, Norway

The Tronsdalen Church or Arctic Cathedral is a vision of striking architecture. It is shaped like a shard of ice. In addition to the stunning exterior, the glass mosaics in the interior are impressive.

Ulvik is on the shores of the Hardangerfjord. It is a beautiful city, especially in the spring when the apple, cherry and pear trees are all in bloom. It is known as the “Fruit Garden of Norway.”

Ulvik Wooden Church, Ulvik, Norway

Try traveling the Fruit and Cider Route and you can tour local farms and taste freshly made ciders and other regional products.

Are the fjords of Norway calling you? GetAway Travel can help you answer. We can be reached at: (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

 

 

 

 

Costa Rica offers incredible biodiversity, rich culture

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Stunning terrain, 800 miles of coastline, no national army — but one of the highest literacy rates in the world at 97% and home to 10% of the butterfly species in the world. Costa Rica has 200 volcanoes, not all are active, a long history of public services including education and health care and 25% of land is protected as national parks or wildlife preserves. You can zip line along a forest canopy, take a chocolate, sugar cane and coffee tour and visit a jade museum and visit a gold museum. Interested? You can pack a lot of adventure in a country that is just about the size of West Virginia. Travel advisors at GetAway Travel are available to help craft your perfect Costa Rica adventure.

San José, the cosmopolitan capital

 Costa Rica, in Spanish, means the “rich coast.” Christopher Columbus sailed to the eastern shores of Costa Rica in 1502 and reported natives wore great quantities of gold jewelry. Nicaragua is on the country’s north border, the Caribbean Sea to the Northeast and Panama and the Pacific Ocean to the Southeast. The country’s primary export is coffee, followed by tobacco, sugar and cocoa.

With a population of over 325,000, San José is a city of stunning architecture, interesting museums, shopping opportunities and great art galleries. The beauty of visiting a small country is that you can be in a great restaurant at noon and zip-lining among the tree canopies two hours later.

Festival Parade, San Jose

The country’s iconic Poás Volcano is just a little over an hour away from San José and you can visit a coffee plantation, and tour the La Paz Waterfall gardens on the way there or on the way back. Visitors rave about the Doka Coffee Plantation tour. The 4,000-acre coffee plantation lets visitors experience every step of the coffee-making process. There are numerous other plantation tours offered around the country, too.

Poas Volcanco crater

The National Theater in San José is modeled after the Paris Opera. It is considered on of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The neoclassical exterior is amazing with its intricate detailing and the inside has sculptures and frescoes.

National Theater, San Jose, Costa Rica

A great mix of museums

The city has an impressive and eclectic mix of museums.

The National Museum, which was an army barracks until the army was abolished, showcases pre-Columbian and historic artifacts. The Jade Museum has the world’s largest collection of pre-Columbian jade pieces with some dating from 500 to 800 BC. There are translucent carvings of fertility goddesses and animals among the very impressive pieces.

National Museum of Costa Rica

The Gold Museum has hundreds of gold items including jewelry, coins, trinkets and religious icons. They are exhibited to showcase the manufacture and use of many of the objects.

Bridge in the Monteverde rain forest

On the second floor of the San José main post office is the Stamp Museum. Enjoy postage stamp exhibits, early phone displays and historic displays.

La Soledad Church, San Jose

The Museum of Forms, Spaces and Sounds is in what was once the Atlantic Railroad Station. Here you will find all forms of sculptures in wood and stone as well as musical instruments and scale models.

Cartago, the country’s former capital

 Cartago was founded in 1563 and remained the country’s capital until 1823 when it was decided to move the capital to a larger city. It’s about a days travel from San José and it has the most Spanish colonial sites in the country. There are numerous coffee plantations around Cartago to tour and the city is home to one of the country’s largest educational institutes, the Technological Institute of Costa Rica.

Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Angeles

The huge basilica, the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Angeles, which pays tribute to the country’s patron saint, the Black Madonna, is in Cartago. The stunning, mostly Byzantine architecture, is a mix of styles. Framed by mountaintops, the basilica with its towering ceilings and octagonal dome is impressive. Inside, the small statue of the Black Madonna is atop one of the altars. The interior has fabulous stained glass windows as well as statues.

Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Angeles

The country’s highest volcano, Irazú, is in Cartago. Located in Irazú National Park, the active volcano has several craters which visitors can explore. On a clear day, you can see both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts from volcano outlooks.

Irazú Volcano

 Embrace the outdoor options

 Volcanos, fabulous national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, zip-lining over the forest canopies, night and day wildlife tours — the biodiversity of Costa Rica is amazing and visitors should take advantage of all it has to offer.

Corcovado National Park is internationally renowned by ecologists for its biodiversity. It is the one park in the country where all four species of Costa Rican monkeys can be found.

Night and day naturalist tours are offered at Manual Antonio National Park and you can see snakes, monkeys, sloths, macaws and more.

White Faced Capouchin Monkeys, Costa Rica

Walk on the hanging bridges in La Fortuna. There are 14 bridges at Mistico Hanging Bridges and six are hanging bridges. The La Fortuna Waterfall is a sight to behold. The 230-foot waterfall shoots out from the cliff to a frothy pool.

La Fortuna

You can check out the Arenal Volcano and a short distance away is Tenorio Volcanic Park. The park is also famous for Teñideros, where two rivers meet and mix into the brightest blue lake you have ever seen. Take a tour around the lake and visit the sulfur hot springs at Borbollones.

Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

You can go whale watching at Drake Bay.

Marino Ballena National Park is on the southwestern coast and is set up to protect marine life, especially humpback whales.

Montererde Cloud Forest is a wildlife sanctuary with epic views and a huge array of birds and wildlife including jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, reptiles and butterflies. It is named because of the gorgeous mist that shrouds the landscape.

Sloth hanging out in Costa Rica

Territorio De Zaguates, also known as doggy paradise, is in the Heredia Province in the mountains of Santa Bárbara. The “Land of a Thousand Strays,” was founded initially as a sanctuary for several strays. Now, it is non-profit, no-kill shelter with 1,300 dogs. You can take a “dog walk” on the property with some of the residents and volunteers and hear some adoption stories.

Black sand at Playa Ostional

On the Northeast side of Nicoya Peninsula is Playa Ostional. It is a mass turtle nesting area and hundreds of thousands of turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Several weeks later a mass of conservation volunteers show up to shepherd the baby turtles into the sea away from predatory birds and dogs.

Sunset in Costa Rica

So much to see, and, you can enjoy amazing beans and rice concoctions, tamales and fabulous seafood dishes! Ready for a Costa Rica adventure? Contact a travel advisor at GetAway Travel. We can be reached at: (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

 

 

 

 

Visit Oslo, the vibrant capital of Norway

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Northern Lights, the Midnight Sun, an outdoor adventure land, cultural and historic significance, art and Vikings, a myriad of experiences await visitors to Norway. There’s no better place to start your visit than Oslo, the gateway to the country. Referred to as the most beautiful country in the world, is Norway on your bucket list? GetAway Travel advisors are ready to help you “check it off” your list and get you there.

 

Gateway to Norway

 Oslo is the economic and government center of Norway. Trade, banking, industry and shipping are all represented in this capital city. It is a city of incredible nature beauty. There is the stunning waterfront, but also a plethora of green space.

Oslo harbor at night

There are also some amazing examples of architectural innovation. Visit the opera house, not only to attend a performance, but to walk on the roof to enjoy views of the city and surrounding area.

Oslo Opera House

There are marvelous examples of Scandinavian architecture, galleries, art and design centers, take a walk on the roof of the Oslo Opera House. Speaking of opera, a 20-year concentration of development around the city has made it a world-class cultural capital. The art and modern history museums are fabulous.

Oslo Nobel Peace Center

The Nobel Peace center is in Oslo. Nobel prizes are presented in Stockholm, but the Peace Prize is presented at Oslo City Hall with the winner making the keynote speech at the ceremony.

Interior, Oslo City Hall

And, you can go island hopping. A short ferry ride can take you to one of the islands near Oslo for beach time, visiting a fishing village or two or sightseeing among the historical ruins.

Museums? Oslo has got ‘em

 There are 40 museums in Oslo, so there’s likely something to see for anything a visitor might be interested in. In addition to the art and history and cultural offerings, there’s the Armed Forces Museum, the Nordic Bible and Book Museum, the Labour Museum, the Salmon Center, the Norwegian Mining Museum and Silver Mine and you can take a look at the world’s largest collection of miniature bottles at the Mini Bottle Gallery.

But, let’s go through some of the popular museum choices.

National Gallery, Oslo

The National Gallery houses the country’s largest collection of traditional and modern art including many of native son Edvard Munch’s best known works including “The Scream.” There are also pieces by Gauguin, Claudel, Picasso, El Greco, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Matisse, Cezanne and Monet.

Munch’s paintings, drawings, wood cuts and photographs, the largest collection of his works in the world, is at Munch Museum. There you will also be able to see traveling international exhibitions of art as well as musical performances and film. Plan for some time there, the museum has 13 floors.

 

Gol Stave Church, Oslo

Norway’s largest open-air museum is the Norsk Folkmuseum. It is one of the city’s most popular attractions. More than 140 buildings have been moved here to showcase what life was like in the 17th and 18th century. There are barns, raised storehouses and timbered farmhouses with sod roofs. Gorgeous wild flowers grow on the grounds, there are farm animals and horse and cart rides. There is a complete 20th century town reproduction including a village shop, gas station and homes. There are artisan and cultural activities going on throughout the site including weaving and pottery making.

An exhibition hall near the entrance is packed with exhibits of Norwegian folk art, historic toys and national costumes.

Kon-tiki at the Fram Museum, Oslo

The Fram Museum is dedicated to early polar exploration and the Kon-Tiki museum pays homage to Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl who sailed from Peru to Polynesia on a balsa raft in 1947.

Some other awesome attractions

 The Royal Palace, home to Norway’s royal family, allows tours. The 172-room palace was completed in 1849. Visitors can see about a dozen rooms including the lavish banquet hall, the Cabinet parlor and the palace chapel. Be sure to catch the changing of the guard performed here every day.

Oslo Nobel Peace Center

 

Vigeland Park, the world’s largest sculpture park, is a truly extraordinary sight. It is an open-air exhibition of 212 granite and bronze pieces done by beloved Norway sculptor Gustav Vigeland. There are intertwined lovers, gentle senior couples, crying babies and beggers.

Vigeland Sculpture Park

The Oslo Opera House is a jaw-dropping architectural marvel. Located on the waterfront, it is constructed of 36,000 luminous marble blocks and resembles a glacier floating in the water. Go to the roof to enjoy the views — and to be able to say you walked on the roof.

You can zip line down the spectacular ski jump at the Holmenkollen and Ski Museum. You can also immerse yourself in all things skiing. The nearby Rose Castle is an outdoor installation that commemorates the attack on Norway and the subsequent liberation during WWII.

Homenkollen ski jump, Oslo

Seven of the stained glass windows at the lovely Oslo Cathedral were designed and created by Vigeland and 17 more were gifted to the church in 1952 by Borgar Handlid. It’s done in Baroque style now and during a restoration, gorgeous paintings were revealed on the ceiling.

Oslo Dom Kirche

The Nobel Peace Center is dedicated to the peace prize and the Nobel laureates. Interactive exhibitions highlight human rights, conflict resolution and the importance of peace.

Akershus Fortress is a medieval castle where visitors can explore the old walls, art, towers and the castle. Enjoy great views of the city and harbor.

Akershus Fortress, Oslo

What about food, you ask…

 Norwegians are the world’s second largest coffee drinkers. There are great coffee places everywhere.

Røkelaks – salmon and cream cheese on flat bread

Kjøttkaker are Norwegian meatballs served with mashed peas, potatoes and gravy. Smoked salmon, Røkelaks is served in various forms at most eating establishments, often as a meal starter. Pølse is a hot dog, closer to a sausage, served on a soft potato flatbread which is almost tortilla-like. It is topped with ketchup and mustard.

Opened face smørbrød with salmon and egg

Sandwiches or smørbrød, are served open-faced and garnished with a variety of toppings including meatloaf, eggs, smoked salmon or prawns.

Sweets? Oh yes! Waffles are enjoyed with brunost, sour cream and jam. Brunost is a sweet, Carmel-like cheese. Rømmegrøt is a traditional sour cream porridge garnished with butter, sugar and cinnamon. Buns, or holler, are sweet wheat buns served plain or filled with raisins or chocolate. A variation is skolebrød, filled with custard and topped with grated coconut.

Skolebrød

Interested in visiting the gateway to Norway? Travel advisors at GetAway Travel are ready to help you with your adventure plans.We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

Journey to new worlds by train

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Vacation train travel offers a unique way to experience an area. Trains take you where buses and cars can’t go. It is said, “A journey by train is an adventure in itself.” While the trains run like clockwork in Switzerland and there’s lots of options there, don’t overlook the chance to take a train junket if there’s one available where you are vacationing. The seating is comfortable, have a beverage and revel in the knowledge you are seeing the country and being kind to the environment by reducing your carbon footprint since you aren’t driving. Your travel advisor at GetAway Travel can help you with train adventure possibilities. Here are some options to think about.

“Life is a journey, enjoy the ride,” especially if its on a train!

Vietnam’s Reunification Express takes travelers on the North-South railway that became a symbol of the reunification of the country when it opened in 1976. Travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Pass close to the sea in some places and enjoy the scenic views of rice paddies, villages, mountains and even some beaches.

Rice fields, Vietnam

Norway has a number of interesting options. The Bergen Line is considered the most scenic. There’s stunning mountain scenery on the trip fro Oslo to Bergen. The train takes you through the Hallingdal Valley along the picturesque Hardanger Jøkulen glacier. It’s a great way to travel between Norway’s two most important cities.

Bergen, Norway

The Flåm Line is one of the world’s most famous and technically interesting railways. It’s a steep action journey from Myrdal station down to the village of Flåm and you’ll pass dramatic waterfalls, rivers, valleys, streams and mountains. Take in what is considered the epitome of Norwegian nature on an antique train.

Flåm Norway train to Myrdal

The steep, angled climb from zero to a half mile above sea level takes two engines. One is at the front and one is at the back and each has a special braking system.

Take the seven-hour ride from Oslo to Trondheim on the Dovre Railway. You’ll enjoy the journey through Gudbrandsdalen, Rondan and Dovrefjell. The tracks go through some of Norway’s lovely national parks and you’ll see Lake Mjøsa as well at Eidsvoll, the birthplace of the Norwegian Constitution.

Sunset over Lake Mjosa Norway

Safari, Sri Lanka, India and the Outback

 The Rovos Rail in Southern Africa takes a 15-day journey from Cape Town to Dar Es Salaam. The luxury train goes through five countries with scheduled stops at game reserves, the Zambia-Zimbabwe border, Victoria Falls and through Tanzania’s Nyerere National Park. You can enjoy canapés and champagne during formal evenings on the train and safari, cultural and historic excursions during off-train times.

Victoria Falls – Zambia and Zimbabwe border

The British created the Ella to Kandy line through the central highlands of Sri Lanka to move tea and travelers. The seven-hour trip takes you through mountains, across rivers and over gorges. You pass giant tea plantations, farm fields, quaint small rural temples and occasionally stop at tiny stations to pick up travelers.

Ella to Kandy line passing through tea plantations

A train trip from Delphi to Mumbai on the Maharajas Express India takes seven days. The luxury train offers a fabulous tasting menu that is tailored to the area you are passing through and travelers are treated with marigold garlands when they board the train. There are great lounges with comfy couches, books and board games for you to rest and relax after you take advantage of planned excursions at stops along the way.

Palace of the Maharaja

Fancy a train trip though the Outback? There’s a three-day option on The Ghan that goes from Adelaide to Darwin. The environmental changes are amazing. You go from wine country in Southern Australia to the arid desert of Central Australia to the tropical landscapes near the Timor Sea.

The Ghan railway, Australia

Japan, Portugal, Canada, Egypt and the UK

 A train ride in Japan, the birthplace of the bullet train, is a three-hour blast from Tokyo to Shin Aomori. The Tohaku Shinkansen is the longest of the super speed lines that cross the country. Although it’s wicked fast, you can still see the volcanic landscape, snowy forests and villages.

Shinkansen trains

Portugal’s Douro Line takes you on a three-hour journey from Porto to Pocinho. The rail line was created in the late 19th century to move port into rural areas. You can admire the lovely vintage landscape with the neat rows of grapevines tucked into the steep hills. The start of the trip is pretty spectacular. Porto’s Sâo Bento Station is covered in decorative blue and white ceramic tiles, known as azulejos. The azulejos at the Pocinho station, where there is a bottle shop, depict the grape harvest.

Train line in Douro valley, Portugal

You an experience the pristine grandeur of the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer line. GetAway Travel advisors can attest to the awesome scenery because they took the Journey Through the Clouds trip. Imagine traveling in a comfortable coach outfitted with gigantic picture windows so you don’t miss any part of the scenery. You travel between Vancouver and Banff.

Lake Louise

Take a 10-hour rail trip from Cairo to Luxor and get dropped off at the doorstep of the Valley of Kings. The line runs parallel to the Nile River and goes from the delta to Alexandra and past the Aswan Dam.

Luxor Temple

The Heart of Wales line in the United Kingdom takes you from Craven Arms, England to Llanelli, Wales. The single track runs through the center of the country and takes you over ancient viaducts and through quaint rustic stations.

Caerphilly Castle, Wales

A trip on the Royal Scotsman starts at Edinburgh’s Waverly Station, takes travelers through the heart of the Scottish Highlands and past some great landmarks. If you want to soak up the ambiance of the British countryside in restored train cars featuring Art Deco touches from the 1920s and 1930s, ride the British Pullman. Tour the countryside and cities and towns like Cambridge, York and Canterbury.

Canterbury Cathedral

Ready to go full steam ahead on a train adventure? Your GetAway Travel advisor is on board with that!  Reach us at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Try something different — A train adventure!

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Trains take you where you want to go, but also where you can’t go. Travel to the edge of glaciers and clear lakes, up and through mountains, across gorges and canyons, through vineyards and by quaint villages. No where in the world do trains deliver the maximum scenic punch from the cushy comfort of a train car with panoramic views like in Switzerland. The country holds the world record for annual train travel kilometers per capita – 1,242 miles. Long trips, short trips, scenic trips, one-of-a-kind mountain trips — Switzerland has it all going on and GetAway Travel can help with your rail adventure. “Life is a journey, enjoy the ride” — it might as well be on a fabulous train!

They really do run like clockwork

 Switzerland is known for its iconic train journeys that offer stunning views of the Alps and comfortable travel through diverse scenery that can’t be seen on a car or bus trip. Swiss trains are punctual, some say even a minute late is too late. You need not worry about missing a connection or encountering a long delay. You can pick the “class” of car you want to travel on, pay extra for exclusive bar access and get five course meals with wine. There’s an herb train, chocolate train, wine train, long rides, short sightseeing trips, luxury upgrade options, sleeper options, trains combined with boat or gondola rides, trips that take you through several countries and a train ride that takes you to the top of Europe. Take several trips, or, consider the 800-mile Grand Train Tour of Switzerland that takes you past 11 lakes, five UNESCO World Heritage sites and through four of the country’s cultural regions.

The Matterhorn sits right on the border between Switzerland and Italy. The north face overlooks the Swiss town of Zermatt, while the south face looks toward Breuil-Cervinia in Italy.

Let’s go through some options…

 The Glacier Express — It connects Zermatt, a city at the foot of the Matterhorn, to St. Moritz. What is sometimes called the slowest express train in Europe, takes you on an eight-hour journey. It gives you spectacular views of the Matterhorn and Rhine Gorge and takes you over 291 bridges and through 92 tunnels.

Aletsch Glacier is the longest in the Alps stretching over 14 miles.

It does make stops to allow you to explore the castles of Brig and you can take a cable car ride up to the Aletsch Glacier. The train goes over the Furka, Oberalp and Bernina passes. You get a great look at the famed six-arched Landwasser Viaduct.

The Landwasser Viaduct

You can pick the “wine tour” while aboard the train. And, upgrading to Excellence Class gets a five-course meal, wine and access to the private Glacier Bar.

Described as one of the most scenic train trips in Europe, the Bernina Express travels from Chur or St. Moritz to Tirano, Italy. The Bernina includes a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rail lines of Albula and Bernina of the Rhaetian Railway are recognized for their engineering and unique landscape integration. Called the “red train of the peaks” the route climbs past the glaciers of the Alps reaching an altitude of 1.4 miles and passes over the iconic Brusio Spiral Viaduct as well as the arched Landwasser Viaduct.

It covers some of the most diverse and dramatic terrain crossing 196 bridges and through 55 tunnels. The engineering marvels of the UNESCO site rail lines allow the train to navigate steep gradients and as it moves up the Bernina Range, you go through forests, valleys and past crystal-clear lakes. At its highest point, you are 7,392 feet above sea level.

Bernina range

The express has two specialty options. You can take the “Herb Express” with a stop in Valproschiavo to check out the herbs and have an herb-forward lunch with wine. Or, try the “Wine Express” where you sample wines with an expert, explore the LaGatta Vineyard and lunch in Valtellina.

Beautiful Montreux Switzerlan

The Golden Pass Line connects Montreux to Interlaken and it gives travelers breathtaking views of lakes, mountains and charming towns. It starts out on the shores of Lake Geneva and travels through Gstaad, a city with upscale charm, then deeper into the mountains. It passes the impressive Bernese Overland Mountains and ends up in Interlaken.

Bernese mountain dog in the Bernese mountains, Switzerland!

An option on the Golden Pass is to do the route on the Belle Époque, a specific train modeled after the 1930s Orient Express. The other option is the Panoramique, which is an excellent option for scenic views.

Town of Zweisimmen

The Belle Époque travels on the golden Pass line. Travel in style in opulent vintage style carriage cars with 1930s decor. You travel through Montreux and Zweisimmen. A variation on that trip is taking the Chocolate Train. The first leg is on the Belle Époque from Montreux to Montbovon and at Montbovon you switch to a bus. On to Gruyère! At the Maison du Gruyère, also known as the Gruyère Cheese Dairy, you learn all about cheese making and aging. Next, you go to Broc and visit Maison Cailler Chocolate Factory. Cailler, as it is known, is Switzerland’s oldest and most renowned chocolate brand. Learn all about the chocolate making process and, yes, there is tastings!

Gruyere, Switzerland

Some other train options

 The Luzern-Interlaken Express links two of Switzerland’s most scenic areas with the help of some remarkable engineering. You’ll be cravings through the Brünig Pass, past Lake Lungern and Lake Brienz on a cog train. A cog railway uses toothed rack rail so the train can climb steep gradients. It’s like two gears meshing to move the train.

Lucerne

Journey to the Matterhorn on the Gornergrat Bahn, Switzerland’s first fully electric cog railway. It makes for a memorable journey through some of Europe’s most striking mountain scenery. It takes you to the Matterhorn, the most photographed mountain peak in the world and the symbol of Switzerland. Enjoy 360° views of the Matterhorn, glaciers, alpine forests and at the very top — views of 29 mountain peaks.

The Gotthard Panorama Express combines train and boat travel. The route goes fro Lugano to Lucerne. Enjoy the stunning mountain and lake views.

Climb on the Lugano Funicular to get stunning views of Lake Lugano

Jungfrau Railway uses a cogwheel train to take travelers to Jungfraujoch — the top of Europe, 11,332 feet above sea level.

Eiger mountain north face and Eiger Glacier

Start the trip in Grindelwald a lovely alpine village at the foot of the Eiger and Wetterhorn mountains. The rail line passes through the Eiger North Face, one of the most challenging mountain faces. Clint Eastwood climbed the Eiger while filming the movie, “Eiger Sanction.” Eastwood performed all of his stunts in that moving, including the dangerous climb.

Grindelwald Farmhouse

This unique trip includes panoramic views of some of the highest peaks of the Bernese Alps as well as the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in Europe. Tour the Ice Palace and the Spinx Observatory when you get to Jungfraujoch.

This is a taste of what awaits travelers who want a train experience. Stay tuned for more train travel options in an upcoming blog. Interested in a Swiss train adventure? GetAway Travel can keep your trip plans on track. We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140,  or e-mail, sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Colombia cruises open up new areas

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It’s hard to beat a river cruise for a relaxing and interesting vacation. One area that has just opened up, is cruising the Magdalena River in Colombia. The “Land of 1,000 Rhythms” has so much potential, and a river cruise opens up areas that are not easily accessible. Why 1,000 rhythms? Colombia is a country of rich and varied influences and that includes music. Yes, you can literally expect to experience and endless variety of music!

Plus, on your cruise ship you can enjoy superb dining options from chefs who feature local ingredients, tropical fruit tastings, artisanal chocolates, local rum and Colombian coffee tasting. Interested in visiting this intriguing location? GetAway Travel can get you started.

Magdalena River

Cartagena, capital of the Bolivar region

 On the Caribbean Coast, Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This walled city was the central port of where gold and silver was exported to Spain. It was a favorite site of adventurers as well as pirates. If you take a Magdalena River cruise, it will likely start here. Novelist Gabriel Garcià Márquez called the Magdalena the “River of Life.” Explorers used the river to forge trade and communication routes between the Andes and Caribbean. The river basin area houses 80% of the country’s population.

Cartagena

The hilltop fortress, San Felipe Castle, stands guard at the walls and offers impressive views of the area.

San Felipe Castle

There are hundreds of intricate gold artifacts displaying the workmanship of goldsmiths who showed off their skills at this port city in the Gold Museum.

Historic Gesemani neighborhood

Just outside the walled city is the Getsemani Neighborhood. This lively, Bohemian neighborhood has colorful outside murals, brightly painted buildings and the famous Calle de los Sombrillo or Umbrella Street. Umbrellas, kites and flags hang over the street giving shade to visitors so they can enjoy the street vendors, sidewalk bars, restaurants and, of course, coffee shops.

Colombian Coffee

Colombians love their coffee and they love to share. At the Café del Mural, you can take a coffee class. Enjoy four to five coffee tastings, get a bag of coffee, learn how to discern which are the best coffee beans and immerse yourself in the fine art of coffee brewing. Snacks are supplied!

Cartagena de Indias

A statue commemorating Colombian hero Pedro Romero is just outside the Church of the Holy Trinity. Romero is credited with spearheading Colombia’s bid for independence from Spain as well as being the first non-white military officer.

Church of San Pedro Cartagena

Don’t miss the Boredas Market, it’s a yellow building and it was once a prison. Now, each tiny cell contains a quaint shopping opportunity.

Palenque, Mompox and Magangue

 Palenque is the first “free” town in the Americas. Founded by individuals who fled slavery during colonial times.The slaves were brought to Colombia by the Spanish and forced to work in the coffee fields. The foundation they set is so well preserved it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bright murals around the town commemorate the Afro-Columbian heritage.

Casa Museo teaches the history of the town and culture in photographs and exhibits. Music and dance are an important part of the culture reflecting a unique blend of Spanish, African and indigenous traditions. You can, and should, enjoy music and dance presentations throughout the town.

Santa Cruz de Mompox

Possa Rikombilesa Mi is a music school for local children. It is the headquarters for the international (homegrown) band, Kombilesa Mi. They play a unique music called RFP or Rap Folkloric Palenque. They have played all over the world including at New Orleans Jazz Fest and the Kennedy Center.

Colombia’s most famous boxer, Antonio Cervantes or Kid Pambele hails from Palenque. He was world welterweight champion for much of the 1970s and you can see his statue in the city.

Riverfront in Mompox

Mompox is an island town that is truly frozen in time. Founded in 1540, it still looks like a Spanish colonial village. The Spanish found this village a safe haven from pirates that regularly raided coastal areas. Because it was a safe area, many kept their stores of gold and silver here. The abundance of precious metals drew artisans here and the town became known for stunning filigree jewelry.

The village is surrounded by amazing wetlands and a huge lake packed by flora and fauna.

Stuffed Arepas – yum

Because its cultural and religious heritage is so well preserved, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are five lovely, quaint colonial churches and the Museo de Arle Religioso has religious paintings, sculptures, statutes and silver pieces. The Mompox cemetery is where El Gato (the Cat) is buried. El Gato loved cats so much when he passed away his family kept feeding the cats who lived near his grave. At any given time at least 40 cats are living in the cemetery.

Magdalena River near Mompox

Leaving Mompox to Magangue takes you through the LaMojana Region considered to be the most beautiful stretch of the river.

Magangue is a city surrounded by nature. There is an amazing collection of birds that can only be found in this specific area of the country to see. The Cathedral de Magangue is a great example of colonial architecture.

Nueva Venecia is near Magangue. The floating village is known as “New Venice.” Much of the village area is a sanctuary for native flora and fauna, but villagers sell traditional crafts and demonstrate old-time fishing techniques.

 Barranquilla and carnival

Known as the “Golden Gate” of Colombia, the city is home to notable musicians, writers, artists and the carnival. The Barranquilla Carnival encompasses three centuries of traditions, from the Battle of the Flowers, to the parades to the music and accompanying festivities which actually start weeks before the actual celebration. UNESCO has recognized the carnival as an intangible cultural heritage.

Festival time!

The carnival runs for four days in late February or early March, but pre-celebrations start in January.

Its a wild extravaganza of costumed performers, parades, elaborate floats and cumbia music.

Paisa Tray – Traditional Columbian Food

The Museo Romántico showcases artifacts, including costumes, gowns, crowns, props and floats from past carnivals as well as exhibits on famous Colombians. There are also exhibits on carnivals across the globe — from Rio de Janiero, Santa Cruz and the Port of Spain.

The Museo del Caribe in the city focuses on the geography of the area and Caribbean history.

Barranquila Church

There are a number of huge malls so you can get your last minute souvenir shopping done, the Barranquilla Museum of Modern Art and the lovely baroque style church, the Iglesia de San Nicolás de Tolentino.

Colombia

Ready for the Land of 1,000 Rhythms? GetAway is ready to get you there! We can be reached at: (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Relax, or explore — Belize is a “jewel” of a destination

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Belize offers beaches, rainforests, Maya ruins, barrier reef access, rich cultural heritage and all manner of adventure opportunities from zip lining to snorkeling. It is no wonder this country’s nickname is “the Jewel.” Climb to the top of a temple, experience the gateway to an ancient civilization in underground passages littered with skeletal remains, tour a chocolate factory, check out a rum distillery and take a jaunt into nearby Guatemala or Mexico. GetAway Travel can help you craft a trip to experience lots of adventures, and we can even throw in some beach time!

A small country with big options

 A country the size of Massachusetts, Belize has Guatemala, Mexico and the Caribbean Sea as its neighbors and it has a population of 375,000. It is part of Central America, but it recognized as both a Central American nation and a Caribbean entity. A former British Colony, it is the only Central American country where English is the native language.

Turtle in Belize Sea

It is a harmonious melting pot of cultures and diversity which comes through in the art, food and music of the country.  Maya, Mestizo, Creole, Garifuna, Mennonite, Chinese, East Indian and Lebanese cultures all contribute to the Belize heritage.

Island Resort in Belize

More than 400 small islands, called Cayes (pronounced keys) dot Belize’s coastline. Some of the islands have been purchased. Bill Gates owns one and Leonardo DiCaprio also owns one which he plans on keeping in a natural state.

Playing a traditional Garifuna drum

Belize embraces its Garifuna heritage. The Garifuna people are an Afro-indigenous population found in several Central American countries. Recognized by the UNESCO organization, the culture gathers influences from the African, Caribbean and Arawak cultures.

Belmopan City and beyond

 The capital of Belize is Belmopan City. Most of the government buildings and embassies are located here and it is the second-largest city in the country. Belize City was the country’s capital until 1970 when Hurricane Hattie leveled much of the city. Belmopan is on higher ground.

Parliament building in Belmopan City

Learn more about the history of Belize at the George Price Centre for Peace and Development.

From here you can get to Blue Hole National Park. The Blue Hole is a giant sink hole made famous by Jacques Cousteau who listed it on the top five diving sites in the world. The rest of the park is 500 acres of tropical rainforest and home to 200 species of birds and other incredible wild life.

The Blue Hole

The Maya ruins about the country are a fascinating  glimpse into an ancient civilization. The Maya are considered a very sophisticated civilization, if you overlook that whole human sacrifice issue. They had a writing system, developed a calendar and had a complicated agricultural system.

Xunantunich ruins

The Xunantunich Mayan Ruins are about 40 miles from Belmopan City. The tallest Maya Temple is located here and climbing to the top offers great views of the area.

Another set of nearby ruins is the Actun Tunichil Muknal (or ATM) Cave. Here there are underground passages with skeletal remains that were, according to legend, used in Maya rituals. Supposedly they were sacrificed in honor of the god Chaae. The Crystal Maiden is in the passages. It is a set of bones of a young girl that have crystalized over time and look like they are glowing.

Cave entrance in Belize

National Geographic ranks ATM as one of the top 10 caves in the world to visit.

Belmopan City is located in the Cayo District of Belize. Why is that important? For a number of tasty reasons!

Chocolate was an important part of Maya culture. Mayas, and many others, think chocolate is a gift from God. It was used in religious ceremonies as well as for medicinal and culinary purposes. The Cayo District is home to a thriving chocolate industry. Artisan chocolate makers produce high-quality chocolates throughout the district. Fine chocolate emporiums can also be found in other cities throughout the country. Some give tours of their operations and offer classes.

Caracol

Caracol, the largest pre-Columbian city in Belize is in the Cayo District. It is the site of the largest ancient Mayan City in Belize. The temple of Caana is here and it is the tallest temple in the country. There are a number of pyramids in Belize and there is one here as well as in the Xunantunich ruins.

Belize City and beyond

 Belize City is the cultural and historic capital of the country. Check out the swing bridge which is the only manually operated bridge of this type left in the world. The museum of Belize gives an overview of the country through exhibits and displays of historic photos and documents. There is also a great contemporary art gallery on site.

St. John’s Cathedral

St. John’s Cathedral is the oldest Anglican Church in South America and the oldest standing structure in the city. It is built of red brick that was shipped to the country on English ships in the 1800s.

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Belize City is the closest city to the barrier reef. The Belize Barrier Reef is part of the Mesoamerican barrier reef which stretches from Mexico to Honduras. The Belize portion of the reef is considered the most pristine and is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you go snorkeling expect to see manatee, sting rays, sea turtles, spiny lobsters, dozens varied reef fish, tarpon, corals and some non-aggressive reef and nurse sharks.

Paradise Beach, Belize

About two miles outside the city is Traveller’s Liquors Heritage Center, home of the world-famous One Barrel Rum. Learn all about the Ins and outs of making the tasty spirit and speaking of taste — the tour does including tastings and a trip to the gift shop.

For a change of pace, try the Belize Zoo. It is actually home to orphaned and rescued native animals and is set up as sort of free-form zoo. Animals who are not zoo inhabitants sometimes drop by to charm visitors and chat with their relatives at the zoo.

Mask Temple Lamanai

Lamanai (which is Mayan for submerged crocodile) is a city about two hours from Belize City. The ruins here are thought to date back to the 16th century BC.  There are dozens of ruins in the complex to check out including the Mask Temple. In the temple is a perfectly preserved 13 foot limestone mask of a Mayan king.

Tikal ruins, Guatemala

If you’re interested in more Mayan ruins, Tikal is one of the largest Mayan sites in Central America, it is just over the Belize border into Guatemala. There are magnificent temples and the Pyramid of Kukulkan in the Chichén Itza in Yucatan, Mexico.

 

Ruins, chocolate, rum, history and culture as well as diving, snorkeling, gorgeous beaches — is Belize on your bucket list? GetAway Travel can help you cross it off when our advisors help you with a great travel itinerary.

Sláinte! Dublin offers premium beer, whiskey experiences

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Whiskey and Guinness are intertwined in the culture of Ireland. There’s some push back from the Scots as to who invented the distilling process that gives us whiskey, but the earliest mention of a distilled spirit shows up in a 1405 Irish manuscript. It doesn’t show up in literature from Scotland until 1494.

Arthur Guinness began his brewery operations at St. James Gate in Dublin in 1759 and produced Guinness Beer under the label of Guinness Brewery in 1799.

Now there’s plenty of things to do and see in Ireland and Dublin even if your favorite libation isn’t beer or whiskey. GetAway Travel can plan you a visit to the Emerald Isle that includes as much or as little alcohol touring as you want. And if you want to start out in Northern Ireland, we can make that happen.

“What whiskey will not cure, there is no cure for”

 What’s the buzz about Irish Whiskey?

It’s triple distilled so it is smoother than other whiskeys and its matured for at least three years. Remember to drink your grown-up whiskey like you’re a resident of the country. You can put one ice cube in it, and you order it in a pub as a “pint and a drop.” So you drink it a sip at a time with a beer or an ale. You do not guzzle, chug or shoot Irish Whiskey. We’re not sure, but we believe you could be facing severe consequences if you try that at a pub. It is probably as bad as cheering for the wrong Gaelic football team. Like, if the locals are all wearing red and blue, don’t cheer for the team wearing yellow.

Let’s do a quick overview of some of the country’s whiskeys. Bushmills and Jameson are the top brands with Jameson carrying the edge and referred to more often as a “national treasure.” Bushmills is actually the oldest licensed distillery in the country starting operations in 1608.

Experts describe the taste of Bushmills as having notes of vanilla, cinnamon and honey. They describe the aroma as grassy with a waft of Granny Smith apple. Some describe Jamesons as sweet, some say spicy. It is aged in old sherry and bourbon casks and has notes of spice, nuts and vanilla.

Redbreast is described as a “Christmas whiskey” because it has notes of marzipan and it also has flavors of buttery pears, oak, warm holiday spices, caramel and vanilla. Teeling, a small batch whiskey, has spice, caramelized sugar, and vanilla notes with a hint of raisin. It is aged in bourbon casks after spending some time hanging out in rum casks. Tullamore D.E.W is described as citrus forward with lemon, spice and slight smoky notes.

A fun fact for your next trivia night: Jameson and Redbreast are owned by a French company. In 1988 Pernod Ricard, the company that brings you Absolute and Chivas Regal, bought Irish Distillers which used to own the two whiskey companies.

Let’s do a whiskey stop

 A number of the top whiskey distillers have a presence in Dublin. Bushmills is distilled in County Antrim along the River Bush and Redbreast is made in Middleton in County Cork. That would be a day-trip away from Dublin and well worth it for whiskey aficionados.

Kinbane Castle in County Antrim

The Jameson Bow Street Distillery in Dublin no longer makes Jameson, but you can pick from a selection of tours there that takes you from grain to glass, teaches you to make cocktails, teaches you how to blend whiskey and lets you try your hand at premium whiskey tasting.

There’s great merchandise at the gift shop and you can enjoy a complimentary Jamesons at the center bar even if you don’t take a tour. The on-site museum re-creates the old factory.

Here, as well as at the other distillers, there is a limited selection of whiskeys to purchase. Visitors are encouraged to make their purchases at nearby liquor stores or at the duty-free shop in the airport.

Teeling Distillery is the first new whiskey producer in the city in 125 years. You can take a tour and taste and buy whiskey here. Pearse Lyons Distillery is also a small batch producer and it is located in the former St. James Church. As a bonus, you can tour the graveyard next door. Dublin Liberties Distillery is in a 400-year-old former mill and tannery.

To learn about all things Irish Whiskey, visit the Irish Whiskey Museum on Grafton Street.

Guinness, Ireland’s national drink

 For 250 years the dark stout renowned around the world has been brewed with loving, painstaking care at St. James’ Gate Brewery in Dublin. Initially built as a fermentation plant, it was transformed into the seven-floor Guinness Storehouse in 2000 and opened to the general public.

The seven floors surround a giant glass atrium styled to look like a pint glass of Guinness. There are exhibits on ingredients, processing equipment and old brewery machinery. There are storage and transport exhibits. Guinness was once transported in barrels on barges that used traversed the River Liffey.

The Gravity Bar perched atop the storehouse is where you can have a pint and enjoy 360-degree views of the city.

Touring the storehouse is a don’t-miss opportunity. Haven’t tried Guinness? Experts describe it like this: “The aroma has a sweet, dark fruit character. The roasted malt gives it an almost coffee flavor and the taste carries hints of cherry, raisin and a subtle, sweet vanilla.”

Taking a sip first gives you an impression of smooth cream, and then there’s a tang of malt and then a bit of a bitter back taste like coffee.

Most people agree Guinness tastes better in the homeland. Irish pub employees are taught the specific two-part pour to allow the nitrogen bubbles to settle and then create the perfect creamy head. Guinness is fresher, too. Fun fact for the health conscious — Guinness contains more fiber than other beers and also has a lower alcohol content. Drink up, it’s healthy!

So in preparation for your trip — Sláinte is pronounced: Slawn (like lawn with an S) — Cha (like cha-cha). Also in preparation for your trip, give GetAway Travel a call and we will do the heavy lifting of planning and scheduling.  Reach us at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel