Author Archives: Paul - GetAway Travel Service

Make bread part of your tasty adventure

2 Replies

Bread is one of the world’s oldest “prepared” food. It is a universal staple and eating it together is one of the simplest forms of bonding. “Breaking bread” is a symbol of friendship, reconciliation, hospitality and camaraderie. Bread holds religious significance and it shows up in proverbs and slang. While you may not want to tailor your travel adventure around this staple, advisors at GetAway Travel can make sure you get what you knead in your travel itinerary and we can even add some time for loafing around.

From stone ground to stone baked

Recorded history shows bread is an important part of culture and diet. It is the oldest food that doesn’t require foraging or hunting. The oldest unleavened bread was flatbread discovered in Jordan in 14,400. It was wild wheat, barley and einkorn. Stone tools were used to crack and smash the grains. They were initially mixed with water to make a porridge and then, the porridge was spread on rocks and left in the sun. The dried, sun-baked mixture was the first bread.

With the domestication of wheat in the mid-East, the cultivation of grain to bread spread.

Egyptians used bread as a vessel, other countries began using it as utensil. Before coins became prevalent in Egypt, workers were paid with bread and beer.

Iberians and Gauls used foam from beer and discovered it added lightness and taste.

Europeans used beer as leavening and sourdough evolved. Until the development of yeasts during the 19th century every bread was sourdough. In the 1980s demand for sourdough was so high, there were regulations drawn up to define what could be sold as sourdough.

Mayans used corn and that evolved into tortillas, tamales and other bread varieties.

While there are thousands and thousands of type of bread world wide, Germany is the big winner for bread varieties clocking in at more than 3,200.

Bread is different in Europe due to the use of different wheat varieties. They are softer and the bread has a lower gluten content. Many countries also use more diverse wheat strains grown especially for their taste. There are stricter regulations on what can be included in flour.

Cassava

Global prestige granted to bread

Maltese Ftira

 UNESCO recognizes bread making traditions as part of its Intangible Cultural Heritage designation. The recognition is designed to protect the practice of making bread, including traditions, unique craftsmanship, ingredients, social importance, historical roots. It is designed to promote and preserve these practices. UNESCO designations go to France’s baguette, Malta’s Ftira, Haiti/Caribbean’s Casabe cassava bread, Lebanon’s Manoushe and the German bread culture.

Lebanese Manoushe

Germany is in a whole category of its own when it comes to bread. It is an integral part of their culture and they have more varieties than any other country. According to the bread register of the German Institute For Bread (really, it does exist, we aren’t making it up) there are more than 3,200 types of bread. It is a staple at most meals. There’s bread for breakfast and bread for break time, called Pausenbrot or “break bread.” Bread for lunch and, of course, bread for dinner called Abendbrot or bread of the evening.

Pausenbrot

German supermarkets have their own corner bakeries attached and bakers are held in high regard and must undergo a high level of training. There are German standards for bread quality including the size of the loaf and each year the German Institute announces the bread of the year. For 2025 the bread of the year was Nussbrot or Nut Bread. You can enjoy farmer’s bread, mixed bread, stone oven bread, pumpkin bread and five-seed bread.

Abendbrot

There’s bread rolls which come in several varieties and may be called something else depending what part of the country you might be in and milk rolls which are a breakfast item when they contain raisins or chocolate chips. Hörnchen is another breakfast staple. The name means “little horns” and the half moon shaped rolls are the German version of a croissant with a lot more butter. They are served with jam or a chocolate spread.

Vollkornbrot

Vollkornbrot, whole grain bread, is a predominant bread at bakeries. It is a dark bread commonly used with meat and cheese for sandwiches in the evening. There is a law making it mandatory that loaves of Vollkornbrot must have whole grain flour content of at least 90%.

Pumpernickel bread in Germany is a rich, dark bread made of 100% rye flour. Most supermarkets in Germany sell it in pre-sliced small batches. It must be baked at a low temperature for a long time and frequently sells out at the bakeries. Roggenbrot is any rye bread other than pumpernickel.

Pumpernickel

Katenbrot is a dark brown, coarsely textured whole grain bread. The name means “barn bread” and it is great as sandwich bread. Sonnenblumenbrot is sunflower seed bread. This slightly sweet offering is great for breakfast and is served with cream cheese and jam. Dreikornbrot/Fünfkornbrot is the healthiest of the bread options. It is made with a variety of wheat, rye, barley, oats and maize flour and grains.

 

GetAway Travel advisors are by no means bread experts, but in their travels they have tried many delectable varieties and can give great tasty vacation advice. They can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel Check back for our next blog which takes you around the world to check out more bread options.

 

 

 

 

Tour London’s fabulous museums, cathedrals

Leave a reply

There’s palaces, parliament and prisons to see in London, but there’s also cathedrals steeped in history and some of the finest museums in the world. Travel advisors at GetAway Travel can help tailor your adventure to include all the points of interest you’ve been dreaming about seeing.

Awe-inspiring cathedrals and churches

 St. Paul’s is an architectural masterpiece that towers over Ludgate Hill. This 300-year-old marvel is recognized as one of London’s most magnificent buildings. Inside, the imposing dome is supported by eight huge columns. If you are feeling particularly fit, take the stairs to the walkway around the dome which was inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.

St Paul’s Cathedral

More stairs up takes you to the Whispering Gallery, more stairs and the Stone Gallery, still more stairs to the Golden Gallery. There, you will be rewarded with amazing views of the city.

Interior ceiling – St Pauls

The crypt area has memorials to 300 of Britain’s famous residents including Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson and the Duke of Wellington.

St Bartholomew the Great – London

St. Bartholomew the Great is the city’s oldest parish church. Built in the Norman Romanesque style, it might look familiar. It was used as a backdrop in the films “Four Weddings and a Funeral” and “Shakespeare in Love.”

Continue reading →

Thanksgiving: A Journey That Changed Everything

Leave a reply

Nearly 400 years ago, a small group of Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people gathered for a feast to celebrate survival and a successful harvest. That moment became the foundation of our national holiday—but the story behind it is really about travel.

The Pilgrims were part of religious congregations who fled England’s turbulent politics for the relative calm of Holland. Known as Brownists, they believed in a congregational form of worship—a dangerous idea in a time when disagreeing with the monarchy could cost you your life. Under the 1559 Act of Uniformity, skipping official Church of England services meant fines, imprisonment, or worse. So, they packed their bags and headed to Holland.

But Holland wasn’t the final stop. Fearing they’d lose their cultural identity, the Pilgrims dreamed of a new life across the Atlantic. Their first ship, the Speedwell, leaked like a sieve. Enter the Mayflower—a merchant vessel never designed for passengers. Imagine a two-month voyage in cramped quarters, no privacy, and only a chamber pot for a toilet. Seasickness, boredom, and brutal storms were constant companions. Yet, they pressed on.

When they finally arrived, winter was waiting. Many didn’t survive those first months, but thanks to the Wampanoag, they learned to hunt, fish, and grow crops. By autumn of 1621, they celebrated their first successful harvest with a feast—what we now call Thanksgiving.

Mayflower Replica

So, What Does This Have to Do With Travel?

Travel has always been about hope, resilience, and discovery. The Pilgrims risked everything for a better life. Today, we travel for joy, connection, and cultural enrichment—but thankfully, in far more comfort than a wind-tossed merchant ship!

At GetAway Travel, we believe every journey should be memorable for the right reasons:

  • Luxury & Comfort: Custom tours, exciting expeditions, and elegant river cruises—where your accomodation truly feels like home.
  • Cultural Enrichment: Guided tours that immerse you in history, art, and local traditions.
  • Hassle-Free Planning: We handle the details so you can simply enjoy the adventure.

This Thanksgiving, as you gather with loved ones, remember: the spirit of travel is woven into the very fabric of this holiday. Ready to start your next chapter of discovery?

Visit London for history, grandeur, culture

1 Reply

It’s a city with history that goes back to Roman times and everywhere you turn is stunning architecture and sites recognizable from the news and movies. It’s a city of kings and poets, high tea and crown jewels, double-decker buses, tradition and pomp and circumstance and so much more. London has so much to offer and the travel advisors at GetAway Travel can offer you lots of options to make your trip there fabulous!

Take in the royal sights

 See the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. The guards perform a ceremonial march accompanied by pomp and fanfare. Check the schedule, it doesn’t happen every day. You can tour Buckingham Palace. The state rooms open to tours have fabulous art and antiques. It is open for tours from July to September. After that, it becomes a “working” royal palace and is only open to the public at select times.

Buckingham Palace

The Tower of London is an iconic landmark with 1,000 years of history behind it. It went from being a royal palace to a fortress and then to a prison. It houses the crown jewels. We aren’t talking about a crown or two. We’re talking about a majestic display of grand proportions. More than 100 pieces of jewelry and coronation finery worn or used by kings and queens over the years.

The Tower of London

The most famous feature of the Palace of Westminster, which is the Houses of Parliament, is Elizabeth Tower which is more commonly known as Big Ben. The legendary 13-ton bell is atop the tower. You can take a tour and enjoy the fabulous views, but be prepared. You need to be able to climb 334 steps to see the clock and inner mechanisms. You are supplied with ear plugs because it’s loud in there.

Westminster Palace

Westminster Abbey, formerly known as Collegiate Church of St. Peter at Westminster has enormous historical significance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has been the setting of coronations for 40 English and British monarchs as well as a burial site for 18 English, Scottish and British monarchs.

Westminster Abbey

A tour here encompasses 10 centuries of history, with burial sites and memorials of individuals who shaped the history of the United Kingdom. Notables including Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Dickens are buried here and there are numerous memorials to famous people including Charles Darwin and Isaac Newton.

Westminster Abbey interior Courtyard

Admire the soaring ceilings, including the vaulted ceiling in the Henry VII Lady Chapel that was an architectural marvel at the time it was built. There are stained glass windows and intricate carvings to admire. The Cosmati Pavement near the high altar, with its colorful stones and glass, is gorgeous.

Henry VII Chapel at Westminster Abbey

Plenty of famous places to visit

 The London Eye is a futuristic ferris wheel that takes 30 minutes to do a complete turn. When you are at its highest point, 443 feet, the views of the city can’t be beat.

The Eye

Seeing a production at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater means experiencing the work of the bard in its most authentic setting. It is actually a rebuilt faithful reproduction of the original Globe. It burned to the ground when a theatrical cannon explosion during a production set the thatched roof on fire.

Shakespeare’s Globe Theater reproduction

A guided tour takes you around the theatre to an exhibition on Shakespeare and life in the 17th century in Bankside.

Don’t skip an opportunity for an afternoon high tea while in London. While many venues require a reservation, there are still plenty of places, including several museums as well as cafés on High Street, that take walk-ins. Enjoy finger sandwiches — cucumber, egg salad and smoked salmon and cream cheese, and quiches, mini pies and sausage rolls. The sweets selections will include small cakes, tarts, sweet scones with jelly and cream, eclairs, petit fours and shortbread.

The Shard

The Shard is a splinter-like building that is one of the tallest buildings in Europe. It is 1,016 feet high with 95 floors. The 72nd story has an open-air sky deck with spectacular views.

The thousand-year-old Borough Market at the southern end of London Bridge has more than 100 stalls and small shops. Some scenes from Harry Potter movies were filmed here.

You can find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods and a plethora of international cuisine options for lunch including falafel, flatbread, bento boxes, black truffle pasta, tacos and pulled pork. Try the Camden Market with hundreds of stalls catering to your inner fashionista — from vintage to alternative. You can also find art as well as music and film memorabilia here. The Portobello Road Market is one of the world’s largest antique markets.

Tower Bridge

Up for a stroll? Take a walk along the South bank of the Thames River from Westminster Bridge to Tower Bridge. You can get a look at many of the most iconic sights including Big Ben, the London Eye, Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Globe Theater.

An upcoming blog will go through the great museum and cathedral options in the city

Vacationing in the United Kingdom, England, Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland, is a great way to dip your travel toe in the waters. Concerned about going to a country where you don’t know the language — this fits the bill perfectly. Is London and the surrounding area, calling you? Advisors at GetAway Travel will help you craft the perfect adventure!

Melbourne has something for everyone

Leave a reply

Museums, penguins, five-star restaurants, koalas, sports aplenty, a vibrant arts scene — Australia’s second-largest city has got it going on! The coastal capital of Southeastern Australia’s state of Victoria, Melbourne is home to 21 different wine regions with more than 699 wineries, 380 cellar doors and 160 craft breweries. It’s the birthplace of Magic coffee, although many of us believe coffee is always magic in the morning. So when you are done with your visits to the barrier reef and the rain forest, spend some time in Melbourne.

GetAway Travel travel advisors are ready to assist you in planning a trip to Australia and, perhaps Tasmania?

From gold rush to goal rush

Settlers from Tasmania established Melbourne in the mid 1830s and the city experienced a major growth spurt in the 1850s during the gold rush. If you want to have the “gold rush experience,” take a 90-minute trip from Melbourne to Sovereign Hill.

Sovereign Hill

At this hands-on outdoor museum set up like a mining town, you can pan for gold, take an underground mine tour and watch gold pouring.

By the late 1800s, Melbourne was one of the world’s largest and wealthiest urban areas. Many of the gothic-style buildings still standing were built during this time.

Flinders Street Station

It became the temporary capital of Australia in 1901, but reverted back to just the capital of Victoria in 1927 when Parliament moved to Canberra.

Melbourne Cup

It is the sports capital of Australia. It has hosted numerous major world sports including the Australian Open, Formula 1, Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne Cup, Boxing Day Test and AFI Grand Final.

Even if you aren’t a “sports person,” don’t pass up a chance to see the Melbourne Cricket Ground or as it is known in Melbourne, “the G.” This enormous stadium is the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere, the second largest cricket stadium in the world and the 11th largest stadium in the world. Seating capacity is 100,000.

Melbourne Cricket Ground Stadium

It has been the home of Australian football since 1859, was the birthplace of Test cricket in 1877 and one-day international cricket in 1971. The Australian Sports Museum is just outside gate 3.

Interactive exhibits celebrate the diverse sporting culture of the country including the Summer and Winter Olympics, tennis, rugby and soccer. The Australian Racing Museum is inside the Sports Museum.

No shortage of great sites to visit

 The Old Melbourne Goal opened in 1842 and executed 133 of what were considered some of the country’s most infamous criminals. The old jail was open for 80 years and there are creepy, fascinating displays in the cells about the people who were locked up there and what jail life was like. For extra “creepy” value, take the night tour.

State Library Victoria

One of the most beautiful buildings in the city is the State Library of Victoria. It has soaring domed ceilings, a fabulous reading room and the view of the interior from the sixth floor is amazing. Australia’s oldest public library and one of the first free libraries, there are dozens of exhibits including the world’s largest collection of chess-related materials and the Rennie Ellis photography exhibition has iconic photos of Melbourne life from the 70s and 80s including the punk scene, sporting events, protests and visiting celebrities.

Eureka Tower

The 88th floor of Eureka Tower is the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere and there are awesome views in all directions. Feeling particularly adventurous? Try out the Edge, a transparent glass cube that travels on the outside of the building so you are suspended over Melbourne with nothing but glass beneath your feet.

Royal Exhibition Building

Speaking of amazing views, that’s also an option at the Royal Exhibition Building if you go onto the terrace off of the dome. The Exhibition building is one of the most historic buildings in the city and was the first building to get UNESCO World Heritage Status.This enormous building, the site of the country’s first parliament, was also used for the country’s first World Fair. During the fair it was packed with exhibits, exotic and innovative, from all over the world. At the fair, the US proudly displayed, chewing gum.

Now, the Royal Exhibition Collection consists of more than 5,000 historic objects, the ceiling paintings are lovely and the surrounding Carlton Gardens are beautiful.

St Patrick’s Cathedral, Melbourne

The Melbourne Museum has galleries and interactive exhibits focused on nature and the landscape of Victoria — from the rain forest to dinosaurs. Inside the museum is the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Culture Centre. Exhibits, performances and displays celebrate the achievements, culture and history of Victoria’s aboriginal people.

The Australian Centre for the Moving Image is dedicated to the history of movies and digital media.

Interior, Melbourne St Paul’s Cathedral

The city is home to two major cathedrals, St Paul’s and St. Patrick’s. St. Paul’s, an Anglican Church, was built in the 1880s. The neo-Gothic building has beautiful brickwork and the interior has a stunning patterned tile floor, banded stonework and tiled dado walls.

St. Patrick’s, a Catholic Church, constructed of bluestone and sandstone, was competed in 1939 when the spires were added to the chapel. Check out the gargoyle on the front ledge, walk the peaceful Pilgrim Path and check out the floor mosaics.

Penguins, koalas and shopping

Penguin Parade, Phillps Island

Take a 90-minute trip to Phillip Island and watch the penguin parade at dusk. We’re not talking a couple of birds taking a stroll — thousands of penguins come out of the sea and walk back to their nesting area. It’s a Parade with a capital “P.”

Little Blue Penguin

The Healesville Sanctuary, about an hour from Melbourne, is a zoo specializing in native Australian animals. You can see koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, wombats, emus and more. No, you can’t hold a koala. It is considered an endangered species that has high anxiety when it comes to human contact.

Mother and baby Koala

However, Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, near Melbourne, will let visitors touch and take selfies with a variety of animals including koalas. The sanctuary is home to more than 70 species including the cuddly quokkas, a short-tailed wallaby.

If all that sight-seeing makes you yearn for some relaxing shopping, Melbourne has you covered.

Seafarer’s Bridge – Melbourne

Queen Victoria Market is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Built in 1878, it has dozens and dozens of food stalls including the American Doughnut Kitchen and the Bratwurst Shop and Co.. There is every type of cuisine imaginable as well as hundreds of types of cheeses, patés, smoked fish, olives, homemade dips and toppings. There are lots of bakeries, too.  You can find all sorts of souvenirs and clothing here, too.

Queen Victoria Market

Speaking of food, there are a number of Lune Croissanterie locations in Melbourne. While “croissant” and “Australia” aren’t often paired in one sentence — don’t skip a chance to try one. The New York Times has dubbed these flaky creations which come in a variety of flavors “the world’s best.” Have one with “Magic” coffee, a special coffee order that is double strength expresso topped with steamed milk.

Melbourne Central Business District

The Melbourne Central Business District is home to lanes and arcades, often referred to as laneways. Here, an arcade is a narrow street with a glass canopy and shops, cafés, bars and awesome street art. The Royal Arcade is the oldest while the Block Arcade was designed to mimic a famous galleria in Milan. It has mosaic tiled floors, stained glass windows, skylights and wrought iron fixtures. Here you can find Haigh’s, the country’s original chocolatier.

 

Melbourne is calling, GetAway Travel can help you answer! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

 

 

 

Aegean adventure continues

Leave a reply

One of the great advantages of an Aegean cruise (on the GetAway 2027 agenda) is you usually get a chance to spend some time in Venice, Montenegro and Croatia. Stops in Kotor and Dubrovnik after some time in Corfu add a chance to experience beautiful scenery, ancient cultures and the heritage of the region. Thinking about a jaunt to the Greek islands including Montenegro and Croatia? GetAway Travel advisors are ready to chat with you about our 2027 adventure, or scheduling something sooner for you.

Cruise itineraries likely include stops in Milos and Kalamata and then on to the island of Corfu. Then travels to Montenegro and Croatia.

Corfu, Greece’s castle city

 Corfu, off the Northwest coast of Greece, has a cultural legacy honed by years spent under Venetian, French and British rule. But, it also has a legacy documented by tales of gods and heroes. Corfu, in mythology, was the home of the Phaeacians, the generous race of people who gave a ship-wrecked Odysseus a ship to he could return to Ithaca.

Paleokatstrista bay Corfu

The island name in Greek is “Kerkyra.” Kerkyra was the nymph who was the daughter of river god, Aspos. Sea god Poseidon became smitten with her and brought her to the island.

Corfu’s capital is the only city in Greece flanked by two castles, the Old Fortress and the New Fortress. They are placed strategically to ward off invaders. The city is the site of Greece’s first university and the first Greek Theatre and Opera House.

Corfu town, Old Fortress

Old Town and the Old Fortress are a UNESCO World Heritage site. Narrow passageways and streets in Old Town lead visitors to what is one of Europe’s largest public squares with a fabulous walkway that was once reserved for just the aristocracy.

St. Spyridon Bell Tower, Corfu

St. Spyridon has the tallest bell tower in the islands as well as relics of St. Spyridon. Inside there are wonderful icons and the ceiling decorations are stunning. Achilleion began its life as the summer home of Elsabeth of Bavaria, the Empress of Austria. The Neoclassical palace was designed by Italian architect Raffaele Caritto. The interior is a museum and the exterior includes fabulous gardens with decorations and sculptures.

Paleokastrista monastery Corfu

The Paleokastritsa Monastery dates back to the 13th century. The monks on site cultivate olives and press their own olive oil which is for sale.

Paleokastrista monastery mosaic of Jesus

There are groves around the island offering tours as well as some boutique wineries which offer tours.

Museums? Oh yes. There’s the Archeological Museum with items from ancient cities around the island, the Byzantine Museum of Antirouniotissa with rare icons and frescoes as well as other ecclesiastical items. The Asian Art Museum is one of the island’s more impressive museums. It is housed in the Palace of St. Michael and George. Just outside the city you can visit the Folklore Museum of Acharavi, the Sea Shell Museum and the Music Museum.

Ancient Greek temple in Corfu

Embrace the drama and cats of Kotor

 Stunning is the only way to describe Kotor, Montenegro. A gorgeous coastline bracketed by majestic mountain ranges greets visitors. The scenic bay is almost like a fjord and Europe’s deepest canyon, the Tara River Canyon is in Kotor’s Durmitor National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the canyon is 4,300 feet deep and 51 miles long.

Tara River Canyon

There are tunnels carved into the cliff sides.They were built by the Yugoslav army as hideouts for submarines.

Founded by the Romans, the city was an important commercial and artistic center renowned for its goldsmiths as well as its schools of masonry and iconography.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor’s medieval Old Town features well-preserved Venetian architecture. Indeed, the area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Natural and Culture Historical Region of Kotor was designated a site because of the way the historic structures in the area stand in harmony with the mountains.

The walls around Kotor are still largely standing, although you can’t walk on them. The gates are an impressive sight in themselves.

Cats Square is near the North Gate. Lots of cats congregate and sun there, but they are all over the area. They are supposedly a sign of good luck since they have survived earthquakes and sieges and keep the rat and snake population under control. There is a Cat Fountain in Cats Square and a Cat Museum which details the history of the feline preoccupation by Kotor residents.

Kotor Cathedral

The Tryphon Cathedral, a great example of Romanesque architecture, is dedicated to St. Tryphon. Inside the cathedral are amazing frescoes and a Sacred Arts Museum. You can’t miss the Church of St. Nicholas. This Serbian Orthodox Church was built between 1902 and 1909. It has a large cupola and two bell towers with black domes topped with golden crosses. A mosaic of the Serbian flag is over the main entrance. Inside there is art, icons and silver pieces on display.

The “Pearl of the Adriatic”

 Dubbed “The Pearl of the Adriatic” because of its stunning Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, its fabulous Mediterranean scenery and its temperate climate year-round, Croatia is a great place to visit. Ships dock at Dubrovnik’s port. The city is stunning. Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has well-preserved medieval architecture. Who can resist an area illuminated by real lanterns at night?

A recent addition to the port area is the Dubrovnik Brewing Co. It offers IPAs, lagers and great pub food.

The city walls offer panoramic views of the area. Think charming streets, amazing historic architecture and the stunning Adriatic coastline and that’s Dubrovnik.

It will likely look eerily familiar because the area was used during the filming of Game of Thrones as well as some Star Wars movies.

Onofrio’s fountain, Dubrovnik

Old Town, in addition to being the home of great cafés, restaurants and boutiques, is also home to Onofrio’s 16-sided fountain as well as the Orlando Column, depicting the legendary knight.

Orlando’s Column

The Rector’s Palace is where the symphony performs, but it also is a museum featuring exhibits of firearms and weapons. The statue of Marin Držić is near the palace. Considered the Shakespeare of Dubrovnik, rubbing his nose is supposed to bring you luck.

Rector’s Palace, Dubrovnik

So many intriguing options for adventure if you are considering an Aegean area cruise. Your travel advisor at GetAway Travel can help you sort out your options. Ready, set, sail! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

Explore the wonders of the Aegean

Leave a reply

Milos

Just imagine, a leisurely cruise on the Aegean Sea visiting sunny Greek Islands. Each island has its own personality and each adds a new chapter to your wonderful travel memories. Spend time in Athens where a visit is like traveling through time. It is a city rich with ancient landmarks and historic sites. Enjoy the charming canals and romance of Venice. Visit the Pearl of the Adriatic. And if that’s not enough — take a little extra time to explore the fabulous Veneto region of Italy.

Join GetAway Travel on our Aegean adventure with some additional time in the Veneto region, or let us plan your own exciting getaway.

Start in Athens and then on to Milos

 The Cyclades are a group of islands in the Aegean Sea and Milos is in the southwestern-most part of the island group. It is between mainland Greece and Crete. It was created by volcanic activity between 2 and 3 million years ago. It’s that volcanic activity gives Milos the nickname “Island of Colors.”

Milos in the Cyclades islands

This beach paradise (70 — yes, 70) also has pink and orange cliffs and each of the beaches has a different color palette, whites, grays, pinks and various sand and pebble colors. The colors are a result of the original volcanic activity and mineral formations. One of the most photographed beaches is Sarakiniko Beach because the volcanic activity created a moon-like landscape here.

Plaka is the capital of Milos and its located on a hill so you can enjoy the gorgeous sunsets. There’s lovely little boutiques and souvenir shops and, the Sand Museum. There’s sand samples from all over the world and you can even look at them under a microscope.

Nearby are the colorful fishing villages. The whitewashed homes are built into the cliffs, but each has a uniquely colorful garage door where the fishing boat is parked. Living space is on top of the sea-level garage.

The cliffs and surrounding rock formations created the Kleftiko Sea Caves. Kleftiko comes from the Greek word, “thief.” The caves and formations were the perfect place for pirates to hide, store their treasure and conceal their boats so they were ready to attack ships on the Aegean Sea.

The Church of Panaghia Korfiatissa was built in 1810 of materials from abandoned churches. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it offers spectacular views of the area. The elegant church has relics of saints, and some interesting gilded wooden screens with icons.

Ypapanti of Christ or Panaghia Thalassitra church Milos Greece

There are numerous other churches on the island. The Church of Panaghia Thalassitra is the most photographed church on the island. You can see 17th century paintings from the famous hagiographic workshop of Skordilidon, a wooden temple and the coat of arms of the Duke of Naxos.

One of the three most important catacomb sites in the world is in Milos. It is estimated that up to 8,000 Christians could be buried in the catacombs here that were discovered in 1844. They were difficult to build because they were practically carved out of volcanic rock. Only partially excavated, you can still view family tombs and floor graves as well as what is referred to as the “Tomb of the Martyr.” There is an altar there and services were conducted in the catacombs.

On a path nearby is the site where the Venus de Milo was discovered in a niche by a farmer in 1820. She was promptly packed up and moved to the Louvre, but a replica is there and another replica can be viewed in the Archaeological Museum of Milos in Plaka.

On to the island of olives

 Let’s talk olives. Kalamata olives, grown on Kalamata, are smooth, meaty, tasty wonders of nature. They are great in Mediterranean dishes, but are equally at home gracing your charcuterie board. The island provides just the right soil, moisture and sun mix for the olives.

Kalamata Olive Tree

Don’t pass up a chance to tour an olive grove here. It will be a fun and insightful as well as delicious experience. You can learn about olive oil production from cultivation to tasting, have guided tours of ancient and modern olive mills and do some quality tasting. The oil fro Kalamata olives is considered one of the finest of the extra virgin olive oils. It is buttery, spicy and fruity.

Port in Kalamata

But Kalamata is not just about olives. One of Greece’s chief ports, it has a great history.

The Benakeion Archeological Museum has artifacts dating back to the Roman Period. The Modern Greek Art Gallery has paintings, sculptures and carvings.

Spend some time in King George Square. There are fabulous coffee shops and the nearby pedestrian walkway has shops, boutiques and cafés.

Kalamata and a view of the Messinian Bay

The Kiriakou Mansion is now home to the Folklore & History Museum. It houses relics and exhibits from the 1821 Greek War of Independence. The Railways Park museum has exhibits of old motorcycles and railway wagons.

The Castle of Kalamata is a 13th century citadel built over the ancient city of Pharal. The impressive arched entrance features two carved lions and you can get great views of the city and sea beyond.

Historic Church of the Holy Apostles, Kalamata

The Church of Ypapanti is the first church to be built outside of the castle walls and residents began settling around the church. It has twin bell towers, grand domes and the icon of the Virgin of Ypapanti is inside. The Church of the Holy Apostles is a gorgeous church built in the Byzantine period.

Almyros Beach, Kalamata

One of the island’s neoclassical mansions houses the Victoria Karelias Museum of Traditional Greek Costumes. There are 80 complete traditional Greek outfits from the 19th century and beyond. Uniforms, weapons and military objects from the 1821 Greek Revolution to the Balkan Wars as well as WWI and WWII are exhibited at the Kalamata Military Museum.

Mountains just outside of Kalamata

An upcoming blog will detail what awaits travelers to some of the other Aegean destinations. But you can certainly talk to a GetAway Travel advisor now about joining our 2027 group, or booking a trip of your own! We can be reached at:  (262) 538-2140, e-mail: sue@getaway.travel or paul@getaway.travel

 

 

Eat well, drink well in the Veneto region

Leave a reply

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

1 Reply

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

Leave a reply

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