Egypt has been a tourism destination since time immemorial. Home to one of the most powerful and enigmatic ancient empires, its temples, palaces, and, of course, pyramids, have enthralled visitors since they were built. Now, with more than three millennia separating us and the creation of these megalithic structures, they are just as captivating as they were before. As the nation moves towards stability and modernity, its tourism infrastructure has been improving. With regular tours and the advent of luxury Nile cruises, new hotels, museums, and networks have sprung up, and improvements have been made to the old. These changes are very welcome as Egypt is a country which merits its popularity over the millennia and has so much just waiting to be discovered. Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor are the main bases of exploration for those looking to see and experience the nation’s history. Hurghada and Dar Es Salaam are the centers for diving and marine exploration. As a history buff, my experience was centered around Aswan, Luxor, and Cairo. All three cities are wonderful, full of interesting and hospitable people, and fascinating things to see. Cairo a sprawling metropolis, is the capital of Egypt. Ancient and modern blend into a chaotic, yet intriguing mix; cars whirl around obelisks in rotaries, horse drawn carriages bring in produce from the villages. The sounds of the Imam’s calls to prayer echo through the streets up to the balconies of skyscrapers. The city where most journeys begin, Cairo is home to the Egyptian Museum, Pyramids, Copic churches and ancient mosques. Diverse shopping opportunities, from modern malls with luxury brands, to traditional souks with spices, fabrics, and jewelry, provide plenty of options for unique souvenirs and enticing gifts. The Egyptian Museum displays thousands of objects from the ancient past. From the treasures of King Tut’s tomb to ancient papyri, endless gold and turquoise jewelry, furniture, and containers, a hall of famous mummies, the exhibitions are riveting. Every step opens a wealth of knowledge to bring home and enrich your life. The most famous attractions in Cairo, and perhaps all of Egypt, are the Great Pyramids of Giza. While technically in a suburb of the city, the towering Pyramids and the nearby Sphinx are just as impressive in person as one would hope. As you walk up, the edges of the Pyramids waver and transform from the smooth sides we all know from photos to their true chucky shape. As you approach the chest high blocks, their imposing presence grows, taller than many modern buildings, but older than anything you’ve seen. Next to them, the complex shape of the enormous Sphinx looms. Imaging how the oversized head was placed while staring at the full structure is mind-bending. Almost makes you understand the theories about aliens. The southernmost of the three cities, Aswan, is the jumping off point for many cruises. Here is also where you join the caravan for the long drive to the impressive temple of Abu Simbel. Famous for its façade featuring Ramses II and his favorite wife, Nefertari, the temple was relocated when its original home was flooded by the reservoir created by the Aswan High Dam. Now, its sunny lakeside location welcomes visitors to admire the intricate carvings and hieroglyphics. Other sites, such as the Aswan Market, and Nubian Museum, dedicated to a culture which has lived alongside the Egyptians since the Old Kingdom. Once known as Thebes, Luxor holds a wealth of historic artifacts. Home to many temples the city a highlight for tourists. Here you can explore the Valleys of the Kings and Queen, Hatshepsut’s Temple, Luxor and Karnak temples. For an exciting adventure at night is the sizeable Luxor temple. Its main path is lined with stone sphinx, it is well lit at night and the carved hieroglyphics clearly visible. The new angles of light and shadow create a unique feeling and add new elements to the experience. Karnak temple provides insight into the creation of the temples, as its construction continued for centuries until it was abandoned mid-project when pagan religions were outlawed during Roman rule, leaving the scaffolding to be preserved along with the temple. The Valley of the Kings, another of Egypt’s most visited sites, impresses with paint so bright it looks a week old instead of millennia. Each tomb features a blue sky dotted with gold stars, and the attention to detail and thoroughness of the painting makes your imagination marvel at what the temples and palaces looked like in their heyday, fully painted as the tombs in Egypt. The Temple of Hatshepsut gives you an idea; buried for centuries, the paint along several of its chambers have the original painted hieroglyphics and religious symbols. If you want to have a clear picture of life in ancient Egypt, Luxor is unmissable. If Egypt is calling your name, I am ready to help you discover this incredible country. Alex Alex@globaltravel1.com 800-339-3600 x 133

Recently I had an opportunity to visit Costa Rica. This country has been on my bucket list for years, as one of the top eco-tourism destinations in the Americas, and I longed to experience it for myself. Fortunately, I not only had the opportunity to do so, but also to experience and review two unique resorts along the Pacific Coast. This gorgeous country has been having something of a Renaissance recently, with new hotels and tourism developments. The increase in tourism is being driven by a number of factors, including the country's strong safety record, its natural beauty, and its assorted range of activities and attractions available for people to enjoy the sun, sand, and rainforest. The diverse wildlife of the country, from sloths, tapirs, monkeys and an astounding array of birds, can be found along the trails in the National Parks, or even in the trees at your resort. My journey began with a drive from the Liberia airport to Dreams Las Mareas. A family friendly resort, Dreams is located at the base of a mountain in La Cruz, bordered by the ocean on one side and farmland on the other. About an hour and a half from the airport, the resort is well worth the drive with lush foliage, stunning décor, and adorable spider monkeys playing in the trees. The resort’s 17 pools trail from the main building to the beach, and along the way to the water, you may be witness to the resort’s little tribe of mischievous, white faced monkeys. At the secluded beachfront, lounge chairs and a bar serving limitless drinks await. For anyone seeking activities the beach offers kayaks and snorkeling equipment for water adventures. The cove perfectly frames the sun as it sets, creating the perfect backdrop to dinners in the sand. The greenery around the hotel serves aesthetic and practical purposes; helping to muffle the sounds from other parts of the resort, while creating the feeling that the resort is truly interwoven into the forest. The food was impressively delicious at every restaurant. Options include five à la carte restaurants, a buffet with a menu that changes daily, a grill and a café. Ingredients are locally sourced when possible and cooked to perfection. Each restaurant features specially planned menus to showcase the unique flavors of the region and is designed to create the perfect atmosphere. Lunch options include a seafood restaurant near the beach, and two poolside grills, one with a wood fired pizza oven. For dinner, further options open, such as Mexican, Asian, and an adults only Italian restaurant. A new French pop-up is offered several nights a week, serving enticing options on a secluded patio. With no reservations (except Hibachi), you can pick what fits your cravings, and if the restaurant is full, you can wait at the bar with a beeper, or amble over to the next option. Secrets Papagayo is the adults only sister resort to Dreams Las Mareas. Closer to the airport and the main tourism areas in Guanacaste, the Secrets Papagayo is set along Arenilla beach. This all-suite resort boasts 202 spacious suites, each with a private balcony or terrace. The rooms and casitas of the resort are nestled throughout the property, offering a variety of views from the lush tropical foliage to panorama over the bay. The suites with beach views are close enough for the sounds of crashing waves to lull you to sleep. The main building offers the main pool, most dining and bars, and is where most of the organized activities are hosted. A smaller and more intimate resort than the Dreams, the resort offers a romantic getaway or a quiet trip for friends. A short walk along the volcanic beach, where black and golden sands create a mottled effect, brings you to the Secrets Spa by Pevonia. The spa offers massage, body and facial treatments in 13 treatment rooms and a full-service beauty salon. They also offer the Fish Spa experience for those looking for a more uniquely tropical treatment. Here, your feet are placed in an aquarium with little fish which nibble away at the dead skin to leave smooth, healthy skin behind. Of course, Costa Rica is a country which merits true exploration, not just a place to relax on a resort. A safe and hospitable nation, Costa Rica is easy to delve into. Whether it’s on an organized excursion with a tour company, or driving on your own into the wilds, this eco-tourist's dream has become synonymous with an unspoiled tropical paradise just waiting for exploration! I wanted to have both experiences. I drove to Dreams, stopping in Santa Rosa National Park on the way, although the nearby sloth sanctuary, Diamonte Eco Adventure Park, and Rincon de La Vieja Volcano National Park are also popular options. Both resorts have a car rental office onsite for easy renting, and the roads in Costa Rica are well marked and well maintained, although a satellite GPS is highly recommended to avoid getting lost if your data drops. Driving on my own was a fun experience. I have driven in several countries, but the experience of being surrounded by lush greenery dotted with expansive farmlands full of well cared for animals, and how courteous the other drivers were, made the experience one of the better ones. On tours, you can relax and have the logistics handled for you. With trips to hot springs, sunset cruises, snorkel and dive trips, hanging bridges, even coffee and chocolate plantation tours, and more available, the hardest thing will be picking just the ones you have time for. For those indecisive among us, there are combo tours to give you a taste of everything. I did a 4-part combination tour which includes zip-lining, horseback riding, hot springs and a cultural demonstration with a few food tastings. The experience was incredible. Ziplining through a mountain pass, feeling weightless as you glide through the canopy was something I will never forget. On our horseback ride, we were accompanied by a “sabanero” or Costa Rican cowboy, who taught us the commands and whose fluidity in the saddle was beyond impressive. What impressed me most during my trip to Costa Rica was the hospitality and genuineness of the locals. If you want to translate the national catchphrase, pura vida, it means “simple life” or “pure life,” but in Costa Rica, it is more than just a saying—it is a way of life. Costa Ricans (Ticos) use this term to say hello, goodbye, everything’s great, and everything’s cool, or even the things that are not cool, but happened. As if saying: “Ok, but what can you do about it? That’s life!” If you are looking for more than just a beach on your vacation; if you would like to see and experience a welcoming culture, taste incredible cuisine, and hike in search of wildlife, Costa Rica is your destination. Whether you are looking for a tour of the whole country, or an enhanced seaside getaway, I would love to help you plan the trip of your dreams and customize the ultimate travel guide for your interests and budget. Alexandra (Alex) Algiere Alex@globaltravel1.com

Austria is a country practically synonymous with mountains and music. While Vienna may be known as the city where Mozart wrote his most famous works, his birthplace of Salzburg is unforgettable. With Mönchsberg rising from the city center, historic castles and churches, and the Salzach River cutting through, Salzburg is stunning. Mozart’s birthplace is an historical building. Today it is kept in its original shape and it houses a museum about the composer’s life. People of Salzburg also hold Mozart’s sister, Nannerl, dear as well and her name and image can be found throughout the city. For movie fans who treasure the “Sound of Music,” Salzburg brings the film to life. As the setting for most of the movie, fans will find themselves immersed, singing the songs to themselves as they stroll through the gardens of the Hellbrunn or Mirabel Palaces. Salzburg is steeped in history, from the picturesque Old Town (Altstadt), a UNESCO recognized pedestrian area, to the old salt mines that gave Salzburg its name. A living history museum just outside the city allows for more a hands-on experience, prefect for families. An imposing 15th century Fortress, Hohensalzburg, looms over the city from the Mönchsberg. Easily reachable by foot or funicular, don’t miss a chance to listen to the “Salzburg Bull,” an organ from 1502 that still plays daily. Of course, Salzburg’s beauty was well known to Austria’s aristocracy, who built several palaces in the area. Historians and those who appreciate art, design and architecture will revel at the sights! Located in the most central location is the baroque Mirabel Palace, whose famous gardens are full of fountains, terraces, and statutes. Tucked among its buildings are a baroque museum and art from the 17th-18th century. The 17th century pleasure palace, Hellbrunn, is famous for its “trick fountains.” Trick Fountains may not be common now, but back before modern entertainment, these disguised fountains pranked many a guest. For those that don’t mind getting a bit wet, the expansive gardens are littered with secret fountains concealed as statues, tables and more hidden amongst the flowers. Salzburg was also once the seat of the local Prince Bishops. As the religious and civil leaders of the region, the men possessed great wealth and power which they spent creating many striking churches, and of course, their own lavish palace, the Residenz. Full of gilded paintings, detailed tapestries, and ornate details, a tour of this palace is an unforgettable view into the past. Their wealth wasn’t just invested into their own pleasure; the Prince Bishops also commissioned many churches in the city. The imposing Salzburg Cathedral completed in 1657 is home to many religious treasures tucked in the side chapels and cathedral museum. With a towering alter, detailed paintings, and high vaulted ceilings, the cathedral is a striking symbol of the power of the church. The more welcoming St Peters Church has been renovated many times since its original completion in 1143. Gilded painting of saints and memorials to prominent locals, such as Mozart’s sister, line its walls, provoking awe and wonder at their beauty. There’s plenty for families to enjoy in Salzburg. The Toy Museum is a clear favorite, from the historical to the modern, there are interactive exhibits and toys for children to explore. The Salzburg Open Air Museum offers an opportunity to see and feel how the locals lived. The Haus der Natur, a natural history and science museum has hundreds of interactive exhibits which will delight children. From dinosaurs to the aquarium and live reptiles, kids will be wowed by how much there is to see. The Christmas Museum, open March to December, offers opportunities to learn about historical Christmases, the history of Christmas trees, nutcrackers and the similarities between Christmas in America and Austria. End with a river cruise to excite everyone in the family as you take in the city from the water. Salzburg has something for everyone and is perfectly located near the border of Germany. Easily reached by trains, Salzburg is an unmissable stop on your journey through Europe. To learn more or for travel arrangements please contact me. Alex alex@globaltravel1.com

Few places in Eastern Europe can match the charm of Budapest. This glittering city is also known as “The Queen of the Danube”, is full of old-world architecture and loads of cosmopolitan attractions. Many of the city's sights these days celebrate the vibrant capital that it has become. The modern city was created through the union of the ancient city of Obuda with the medieval cities of Buda and Pest. United by bridges, most famously the Chain Bridge, the two halves of the city still maintain slightly different atmospheres, like two sides of the same coin. Buda is the hillier and greener side of the city from which Buda Castle dominates. Pest is the flatter and more sprawling side of the city. Castle Hill, on the Buda side of the river, is a central tourism destination full of restaurants, bars, shops, and tons of small and unique attractions. Buda Castle is a must-see landmark when visiting Budapest. A UNESCO World Heritage Site Today the Castle, which is often called the Royal Palace, is home to a number of cultural institutes, including two museums: the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest Historical Museum. There's just as much to see around the castle grounds – for free! It dominates the city from the top of the hill, giving the opportunity to enjoy an amazing view. Situated on Kossuth Square in the Pest side of the city, on the eastern bank of the Danube is the ostentatious Parliamentary Building. It appears more like a cathedral than a government building. I highly recommend you take an interior visit and tour of the impressive neo-gothic House of Parliament. The tour provides a brief overview of the last 1000 years of Hungarian history. Another wonderful way to explore the Pest side is to enjoy a beautiful riverside stroll. The Danube Promenade extends along the river and is dotted with shops, cafes and statues. Near the Parliament, there is a tragic reminder of the Holocaust in the “Shoes by the Danube”. The installation is made of 60 pairs of cast iron shoes which commemorate the 3,500 people, 800 of which were Jewish, which were forced to remove their shoes by the Arrow Cross militiamen before being shot and their bodies dumped in the Danube. While that monument may be sobering, the others along the river are much more lighthearted. Take in monuments of famous Hungarians (and their impressive mustaches) along with an array of historical architecture, parks, and more. Experience a river cruise for a different view of the city. The cruises run all day or you can enjoy an evening meal or late-night drinks on the Danube. These sightseeing tours are a unique way of taking in the landmarks and monuments on both shores. Hear about the attractions you pass from a multilingual audio guide and sip your favorite beverage along the way. The famous Jewish Quarter is home to the Dohány Street Synagogue, remarkable for being the largest synagogue outside of Israel. The memorial garden attached holds a metal weeping willows whose leaves are adorned with the names of local residents who lost their lives in the Holocaust. Recently renovated in the 90s, the historic building has been returned to its old glory and stands proudly to welcome new visitors and old. Some more modern additions to the Jewish Quarter include a variety of restaurants and shops, both containing a wide range of offering for locals and tourists alike. Those interested in modern history may be interested in the House of Terror or Memento Park. The House of Terror is a former secret police building which has been transformed into a museum educating the public about the horrors once committed in the building and the regimes they supported. Both fascist and communist regimes are highlighted, along with stories of their victims, and a special exhibition can be found in the basement, where Arrow Cross fascists interred political prisoners. A much lighter version of this history can be found in Memento Park, where the statues commemorating communist figures and events were moved after the fall of the Soviet Union. A small museum provides information on the regime and the Hungarian Secret police, however the placement of the statues in a park, where you can stroll and enjoy the sun, keeps the atmosphere from getting too heavy. For those looking for something relaxing, there are many options. Margaret Island in the middle of the Danube offers a beautiful place to relax and take in the flowers. A running track around the outside of the island is perfect for joggers looking to avoid the crowds and noise of the city. The Central Market Hall may be a bit busier, but the selection of traditional food, spices, and handicrafts is unmatched in the city. City Park also makes and beautiful walk and its proximity to the zoo and botanical gardens make it ideal for nature lovers. Stroll through one of the many museums and galleries to learn about history and life in Hungary. The Karst system which Budapest rests upon has created several experiences which you cannot find in any other capital city in the world. Thermal baths with soothing water fed by natural hot springs dot the city. Relax in the healing waters, get a massage, or book a treatment to help you leave the city feeling your best. The caves have also been home to many throughout the years. Famously the Gellert Hill Cave was formerly a monastery before being repurposed as a field hospital during World War II. Many other caves can be visited as well. Some have been converted into tourist attractions, such as the Buda Castle Labyrinth, which features fog and lighting effect along with props telling supernatural tales. For a more natural experience, visit Pálvölgyi cave or Szemlő Mountain Cave, both of which are protected and can be safely explored. Of all Hungarian cuisine, goulash is perhaps the most famous. Meaty, warm, and full of spices, the dish is perfect for keeping out the cold or a meal that will leave you feeling for hours. The rest of Hungarian cuisine is not particularly healthy, but it is delicious. Vegetarian options are limited, but one might try Langos, fried bread with sour cream and topped with vegetables or the staple meatless street food option of a fried cheese sandwich. Street food in Budapest is well worth the visit. From sweet strudel and chimney cakes full of chocolate or ice cream, to the more savory sausages and potato pancakes, you can easily spend the day grazing as you explore. Join a food tour to be shown the best of the best and make sure you don’t miss any of the essentials. Palinka, a fruity liquor famous in Hungary and neighboring countries is well worth the try. Strong and found in a variety of flavors, many families brew their own. If you get a chance to try someone’s homebrew, be warned, it might be delicious, but it’ll hit you like a ton of bricks if you’re not careful. Budapest is a city for everyone. From foodies to history buffs, and even adventure lovers, there is always more to do and find around the next corner. If you are interested in seeing this fascinating city yourself, please let me know! We have river cruises, guided tours, or can create a fully customized independent travel plan for you. Don’t wait to travel, now is the time to start planning! Alex alex@globaltravel1.com

Poland may not get much thought by way of winter travel, but this beautiful country welcomes visitors all year round. Christmastime is an amazing occasion to visit, the added warmth of the holidays casting a unique charm to this beautiful country. A few years ago, I had the joy of visiting Warsaw in early December. The “Old Town” was aglow with Christmas lights, fences and light posts were adorned with pine branches and festive decorations covered the city. There wasn’t any snow on the ground, the air was pleasantly chilly, and fortunately we did not experience the biting cold one might expect in this region during winter. Warsaw’s “Old Town” is no longer old, it is now a bustling hub, impressively redone with cobblestone alleys and reconstructed multicolored medieval buildings. The varied embellishments and decorations adorn the buildings representing the inextinguishable human spirit. I have explored many cities in Europe and admired the many attempts at reconstruction after World War II. Warsaw’s reconstruction is most impressive, especially the meticulously effort to restore the facades and monuments of the former historic center. The rebuilt Old Town is now rich in restaurants, cafes and shops. Seeing everything so perfectly restored is a heartwarming symbol of national pride and an important testimonial of Polish culture. The Barbican, a 16th century fortress marking the border of the old and new towns. The restored fortress is one of Warsaw’s most easily recognized monuments and marks the location of events including the main Christmas Market. While the markets in Poland are smaller than the more famous markets of Germany or the Czech Republic, they have a more familial air. The lack of crowds and demand also help make them more authentic. As more and more markets begin offering foreign-made cheaper goods, the markets of Poland still sell local goods and products. Browse through local crafts, such as ornaments, toys, knitwear, traditional clothes, and other sewn creations to find the perfect souvenir and Christmas gifts. Don’t forget to stop by a food stand for delicious Polish street food. Sausages, pierogies, grilled meats, even soup are all freshly made and will keep you warm as you explore the market and city. Gloriously warm and delicious, nothing says Christmas like mulled wine. Known in Poland as Grzaniec Galicyjski, one will often find the warm, spiced wine marked with the German name Glühwein due to the number of tourists from over the border. Unlike Germany however, one can find another drink that’s more of an acquired taste, mulled beer. Both mulled drinks are made by gently simmering the chosen alcohol with warm spices, such as star anise, cloves, cinnamon, and oranges, until the spices have infused into the drink. Grab a glass to enjoy as you stroll through the stands looking for gifts to bring home and admiring the handicrafts. When you’ve had enough of the holidays, Warsaw’s other sites and attractions are ready to welcome you. Learn about how the city suffered before rising like a phoenix at the Warsaw Uprising Museum. The famous uprising which began with the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising before spreading to the rest of the city, is one of the foundational moments of modern Warsaw. Visit the Museum of the History of Polish Jews to learn about over 1,000 years of Jewish life in Poland. Learn about the natural world at the Copernicus Science Center, named for the man who first proposed the geocentric model of the solar system. Or see what life was like for the old aristocracy before the 1900s at Wilanow Palace, one of the rare buildings left relatively unscathed by the war. Warsaw makes the perfect city break, ideal to mix in with other cities or countries. Only a short flight or a train ride away from Germany and well connected to reach the rest of Eastern Europe, Warsaw can easily be added onto a longer European adventure. Looking for a deeper trip into Poland? Warsaw can easily be combined with other cities to see the best this fascinating country has to offer. Krakow may the other most famous city in Poland, where one can visit Auschwitz, along with palaces and cathedrals. Visit Gdansk for historic buildings, a stunning main walking street, and unmissable views of the Motlawa River. Alex alex@globaltravel1.com