On Turkey’s pristine south coast, nestled between the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, the city of Antalya has long been a favourite holiday destination. Dubbed the new Turkish Riviera, the flanking seaboard offers a rich blend of things to see and do in Antalyaand environs, from exploring Roman ruins to hiking or kayaking deep canyons.

Hadrian's Gate in Antalya, Turkey, is widely believed to have symbolised Roman triumph in the region. Photo courtesy of Unlimited Holidays

With 630 metres of dazzling oceanfront, Antalya has earned its title as the gem of the Turkish coast and welcomes nearly one third of all visitors to the country each year. The appeal of the harbour town is easy to see, not least because Antalya weather is pleasant all year round, with guaranteed sun throughout the summer, and because the white-sand beaches are kept clean and boast numerous local operators who manage water sports opportunities such as diving, snorkelling and kayaking.

In and around Antalya, Turkey, are underwater archeological sites, ancient caves, old temples and Xanthos (pictured here), which is mentioned in Homer's Iliad and a World Heritage Site. Photo courtesy of Unlimited Holidays

In addition to Antalya’s seaside attractions, outdoor enthusiasts will delight in hinterland hiking, white water rafting in Korpulu Canyon and relaxing by the magnificent Duden or Kursunlu waterfalls. Antalya is also the starting point for hiking the famous Lycian Way, the longest trekking route in Turkey.

In town, any tour of Antalya is bound to explore the city’s numerous World Heritage sites. The old city of Kaleiçi is a must-see as it contains much of the city’s archaeological heritage. Other nearby sites include ancient ruins such as Perge and Aspendos and Termessos, the latter a city once so well defended that even Alexander the Great could not conquer it.

Also not to be missed is Hadrian’s Gate, the old ornamental archway that marks the town entrance. All of the the area’s impressive historical heritage is fully explained at the Antalya Archeological Museum, which regularly receives high marks from travellers.

Unlimited Holidays, the whl.travel local connection in Antalya and also the Green Path Transfers local partner is a class-A tourism company (the highest rank in Turkey) helmed by Mehmet Yildiz and devoted to preserving this beloved region of their country by offering local connections to hotels that aspire to protect the natural beauty of the city as well as its cultural heritage.

“whl.travel will help us show everyone that Antalya has more than just sea, sun and beaches,” Yildiz says. “It has history, culture and friendly local people too.”

For more information about visiting Antalya, be sure to contact Unlimited Holidays. The Antalya airport, transfer service to which is managed by Unlimited Holidays, is well positioned to connect travellers to other top destinations in Turkey, such as Istanbul and Cappadocia.

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MESAJIN TÜRKÇESİ / IN TURKISH:

Türkiye’nin bozulmamış güney sahilinde, Toros Dağları ve Akdeniz arasında bulunan, uzun yıllardan beri favori bir tatil merkezi olan harikalar diyarı Antalya, whl.travel’ın en yeni destinasyonudur. Türk Rivierası olarak da bilinen kıyı şehri Antalya ve çevresi ile Antik Roma kalıntılarından, doğa yürüyüşlerine, derin kanyonlarda kayaking’e kadar bir çok görülmesi gereken yerler, aktivite ve dogal güzelliklersunar.

Days in Antalya, Turkey, are quiet as locals and tourists head outdoors into the year-round pleasant weather. Outdoor activities in this Mediterranean port include horseback riding, kite surfing, snorkelling, diving and sea cruises. Photo courtesy of Unlimited Holidays

630 kilometrelik göz alıcı sahil şeridi ile Antalya, ülkenin bir yılda elde ettiği turizm gelirinin yaklaşık 3’te birini kazandırdığı için Türkiye sahillerinin incisi ve turizmin baskenti olarak bilinir. Bu liman şehrinin çekiciliği, yaz boyunca eksik olmayan güneşi ile Antalya ikliminin tüm yıl boyunca ılıman olmasının yanısıra bununla birlikte beyaz kum sahilleri temiz tutulduğu için, snorkel ve tüplü dalış ve kayaking gibi su sporları düzenleyen birçok yerli operatörü kendine çekmektedir.

No visit to Turkey is complete without indulging in a Turkish hammam, or bath, an enduring local tradition. Both modern and traditional hammams can be found in Antalya in most luxury hotels or in the town centre. Photo courtesy of Unlimited Holidays

Antalya’nın deniz kıyısı çekiciliklerinin yanı sıra, outdoor meraklıları doğa yürüşlerinden, Köprülü Kanyon’da rafting yapmaktan, ve görkemli Düden ya da Kurşunlu şelalelerinde serinlemekten büyük keyif alacaktırlar. Ayrıca Antalya Turkiye’nin en uzun yürüyüs yolu olarakta bilinen Likya Yolu’nun başlangıç noktasıdır.

Herhangi bir Antalya turu ile şehrin birçok dünya mirası örenyeri ve mesire alanları keşfedilebilir. Eski şehir olarak da bilinen Kaleiçi, şehrin arkeolojik geçmişi ile ilgili birçok görülmesi gereken eser barındırdığı için kesinlikle görülmesi gerekir. Civardaki diğer antik yerleşimler arasında Perge, Aspendos ve daha uzakta bulunan; zamanında çok iyi savunulmuş, Büyük İskender’in bile ele geçiremediği Termessos yer alır.

Ayrıca şehrin girişini gösteren süslü, revaklı Hadrian Kapısı’nın da kesinlikle görülmesi gerekir. Tüm bölgenin etkileyici tarihsel geçmişi, ziyaretçilerinin de sürekli beğenisini toplayan Antalya Arkeoloji Müzesi’nde detaylı birşekilde açıklanmaktadır.

whl.travel’ın yerel bağlantısı ve Green Path Transfer’in yerel partneri olan Unlimited Holidays, Mehmet Yıldız tarafından işletilmektedir ve şehrin doğal yapısının yanında kültürel mirasını da korumaya azami özen gösteren oteller ve yerel bağlantılar sunan, ülkesinin bu nacizane bölgesini korumaya adamış, A-grubu (Türkiye’deki en üst sınıf) seyahat acentasıdır.

“whl.travel Antalya’nın sadece deniz, güneş ve kumdan ibaret olmadığını bunun yanısıra zengin tarihinin, kültürünün ve misafirperver halkınında oldugınu herkese göstermemizde bize yardımcı olacaktır,” diyor Bay. Yıldız.

Antalya’ya seyahatiniz hakkında daha fazla bilgi almak için lütfen Unlimited Holidays ile irtibata geçiniz. Antalya havalimanı transfer hizmetleri Unlimited Holidays tarafından sağlanmaktadır ve misafirlerinin İstanbul ve Kapadokya gibi diğer önemli turizm merkezlerine ulaşımı için çok uygun bir konumda bulunmaktadır.

The Mantazah Palace was originally built in 1892 and served as a summer residence for members of the Egyptian royalty. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Alexandria, Egypt, it is surrounded on three sides by great walls and gardens. Photo courtesy of Senor Gogo

Over the centuries, Alexandria has ballooned in both size and importance, especially as a commercial centre of Egypt. Today it is an vital economic base that supports a flourishing tourism industry.

Alexandria hotels, of which there are many choices, promise great opportunities for relaxation, especially in light of the many summer resorts and sandy beaches. Fortunately, many of the best also combine five-star luxury with ecologically and socially responsible tourism. A stay at the Four Seasons Hotel in Alexandria, for example, will have you eating organic vegetables and fruits, many of which are locally grown in the hotel’s prided green spaces. Similarly a holiday at the Hilton Green Plaza Hotel, where all of the staff are Alexandria locals, will inspire you to participate in local sustainability by keeping the stunning beaches of Alexandria clean.

Recognised as the site of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Qaitbey Citadel was built by El Sultan al Ashrad Qaitbey in 1480. Perched on Pharos Island, just off the Alexandria mainland, the site was originally occupied by a lighthouse. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Shabayek

There are plenty of things to see and do in Alexandria, including taking in the ancient Roman architecture and the Qaitbey Fortress, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, that has occupied Pharos Island since 1480. Of course, no holiday in Alexandria would be complete without a tour to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, which are easily accessible from the Alexandria port.

One great way to experience the depth of Alexandria’s 18-century history is with a full-day Alexandria tour that takes in highlights like the Roman ruins, the Alexandria Library and the Mantazah Palace. For a more contemporary look at Alexandria, a tour to Alamein, the site of the famous World War II battle, is a must.

The Corniche is a coastal highway in Alexandria, Egypt, linking the Citadel of Qaitbey with the Mantazah Palace. Constructed in 1870, the Corniche runs for 10 miles and offers great views of the Mediterranean Sea. Photo courtesy of Yassin Zahran

Tourism expert and owner of WHL Egypt, Sherif Abd Elwahab is thrilled that his team of Alexandria locals is now available to assist in planning a fun and responsible Alexandria holiday.

“We at WHL Egypt are committed to promoting sustainable tourism and to using the tourism industry as a vehicle for protecting Egypt’s great historical sites,” said Elwahab. “We prefer to partner with Alexandria hotels that take responsible actions toward the community and develop environmental consciousness, using the least amount of non-renewable resources as possible.”

The Old Town Alexandria, Egypt, is filled with markets and vendors selling fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, herbs and spices. Photo courtesy of Flickr/Heather Cowper

Alexandria joins the growing list of whl.travel destinations in Egypt, including Cairo, Sharm el Sheikh, Aswan and Luxor, Safaga, Ein Sokhna and Port Said.

True, Albania might not come to mind as a destination for amazing ruins and cultural heritage, especially in the shadow of an archaeological giant like Greece, its neighbour to the south. Yet ancient civilisations have left their fascinating marks throughout the Balkan peninsula, including Albania. In fact, all of Albania’s three UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites exhibit grand-scale traits to rival any of their Balkan neighbours. And the tale of the Cyclops from Homer’s epic Odyssey is understood to have been set in Albania.

Like a thousand unblinking eyes, the famous windows of Berat, Albania, stare back at admirers. Photo courtesy of wikimedia/Joonasl

Berat, City of a Thousand Windows

The historic centre of Berat, also known as “the city of a thousand windows,” made the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008. Walking next to the river and wandering through Berat’s narrow alleys, takes you back in time and reveals the rich history of a settlement dating from 2600-1800 BCE, making it one of the oldest towns in Albania. The interesting architecture shows Islamic influences from the Ottoman period, but also of Christian Orthodox traditions. On top of the hill is a beautiful medieval citadel with a lively village, beautiful churches and a mosque inside the fortress walls.

Are there really a thousand windows, as stipulated by the city’s epithet? An official count hasn’t surfaced yet, but looking out onto the layers of whitewashed buildings that make up the face of Berat, you do indeed get the impression of thousands of eyes (the rows and rows of windows) gazing back.

Gjirokastra in southern Albania is known as the "city of two thousand steps." Three locals have picked one of them for spending a quiet afternoon. Photo courtesy of flickr/formanella

Gjirokastra, City of Two Thousand Steps

Located in the beautiful Drinos River valley in Southern Albania you’ll find Gjirokastra, a city with a tumultuous past. It has served as a feudal stronghold, Ottoman jewel, Italian colony and territory occupied by the Greek army during the first Balkan war.

Gjirokastra is hometown to two of the most notorious Albanians: Communist dictator Enver Hoxha and writer Ismail Kadare. The city retains an impressive fortress, a bazaar, an 18th-century mosque and several churches. It was inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2005.

Gjirokastra’s unique architecture, developed in the 17th century by the Ottomans when building on steep hills, features distinctive stone roofs, wooden balconies, whitewashed stone walls and many stepped passageways. This is why Gjirokastra carries the nickname “city of two thousand steps.” Again, an official count has yet to be made, but wandering up and down the steep alleyways of Gjirokastra, you will have little doubt that the city has certainly earned its nickname.

Each year, thousands of tourists visit the ancient ruins of Butrint, Albania, reaffirming its need for both UNESCO and governmental protection. Photo courtesy of wikimedia/Marc Morell

Butrint, Preserved for Visitors in the Thousands

Situated on a small peninsula surrounded by a picturesque lagoon in southern Albania, Butrint is arguably the most interesting archaeological site of the Adriatic Sea region. Inhabited since prehistoric times, this site has been home to Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Venetians who built their monuments in glades in the forest. Butrint is both an archaeological site and also a beautiful natural habitat with diverse plant and bird life.

Butrint was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1992. Five years later, during the period of civil unrest in Albania in 1997, Butrint was removed to the list of World Heritage Sites in Danger. As a result, huge investments were made to protect the archaeological site and to extend the protected area to include the surrounding landscapes. That led to declaring the 29 square kilometres around it a national park in 2000 and the park has since been extended to 86 square kilometres. The site was removed from the ‘in danger’ list and its status now helps curb encroaching construction. Butrint attracted around 20,000 visitors in 1996 and the number grows each year, confirming its importance to Albanian heritage and tourism. Its doubly-protected status as UNESCO site and a national park helps ensure that tourism pressure is regulated and tourism dollars keep the site preserved.

Are you planning a trip to Albania? Check out the villages of the northern mountains, the coasts of the Adriatic and Ionian seas, and the rich cultural heritage with Outdoor Albania, the whl.travel local connection headquartered in Tirana, Albania.

Fes, Morocco, is considered one of the holiest cities in the Islamic world. Parts of it barely changed since it was founded at the beginning of the 9th century by Moulay Idriss II, this enchanting city has been a seat of government, philosophy, medicine, music and religion for more than a millennium. In fact, Fes is considered one of the best surviving examples of an ancient Arab city. It comprises the ‘new’ city, established in the 12th century, and the much more ancient medina, a market where goods-laden donkeys and mules still amble alongside buyers.

One highlight of visiting Fez, Morocco, is the panoramic view of the ancient city from a rooftop or other high point like the Merenid Tombs. Photo courtesy of Marrakesh Voyage

Visitors enjoying this amazing car-free zone will encounter a fascinating maze of lanes, blind alleys and bustling souks (markets) assaulting the senses with spices and exotic delicacies. With so much on display, it is the perfect place to sharpen your bargaining skills while buying souvenirs, brightly coloured hand-loomed carpets or fine-crafted artisanal goods. Also not to be missed are the famous leather tanneries – a honeycomb of vats erupting in an explosion of brilliant colour – and the venerated Merenid Tombs, where the spectacular panoramic views of Fes defy words.

Day Trips

An exciting day trip from Fes begins at Meknes, one of Morocco’s ‘Imperial Cities’ and a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site complete with lush rolling hills studded with ancient olive groves and vineyards. After a pleasant lunch in this holy city of Moulay Idriss, you can explore the spectacular arched gateways of Bab El Mansour and Bab El Khamis. Then the tour is off to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubulis, where the remains of palaces, baths, soaring arches and magnificent mosaics await discovery on a wildflower-dotted hillside.

Bab Boujloud is one of most famous gateways into the old city of Fez, Morocco. Photo courtesy of Marrakesh Voyage

Another compelling day trip lets you explore the Middle Atlas Mountains of Morocco, where a hidden, fragrant cedar forest is filled with chatty Barbary macaques and the mountainsides are home to many rustic Berber villages. Here is where to make a wish by a rushing waterfall or stroll the banks of a placid lake in one of many pleasant parks. At the weekly market in Azrou, you’ll discover fine wooden handicrafts and handmade Berber rugs.

Shopping

Shopping in Fes can be a high-intensity experience. In Morocco, bargaining is a way of life, so always remember that the price you are initially offered will be highly inflated and that it’s up to you to ask for lower. When negotiating with vendors, surrounded by the noise and confusion of the market, you may at first find it difficult to gain confidence and stand your ground, but with a little bit of practice, the haggling process becomes a captivating part of the Moroccan experience.

Handcrafted silver plates like these ones are used for serving biscuits along with tea in Morocco. They can be found in any city's labyrinthine souk (market). Photo courtesy of Marrakesh Voyage

Striking a good deal is well worth your while, though, as Fes is world-renowned for its handcrafted Moroccan decorative items, such as textiles, rugs, antiques, hand-woven and embroidered shawls, Berber cushions, handmade garments, leather, wood and much more.

Restaurants

It would take ages to visit all the good places to enjoy the amazing traditional Moroccan cuisine in Fes. To narrow it down: some of the best restaurants are Yacout, Medina and La Maison Arabe. If you wish to try local food while rubbing shoulders with the people of Fes, eat your fill at the small shops of the souk in the ancient city.

Local Treats

Fes is known for the strong presence of Sufism. We still have Sufis who get together every once in a while at someone’s house for a special musical event. Contact us about attending one of these events.

In the famous leather tanneries of Fez, Morocco, hundreds of pots of dye are used in the leather tanning process. Photo courtesy of Marrakesh Voyage

We can also help you to experience the Moroccan culinary scene by going to the market to do your own shopping for all the ingredients needed for a cooking class at one of our Moroccan guesthouses. Learn how to make couscous, chicken with lemon, lamb with prune or chicken pastilla.

Night Out

The best place to relax during the daytime is a local café at the souk. Watch the people wander by, each with his own story, as you sip a cup of coffee or tea with the locals. As Fes is a sacred town, the evenings are best spent dining on some of the best food in the country at a local restaurant or on the rooftop of a guesthouse. You just won’t find the kind of nightlife for which places like Agadir, Casablanca or Marrakech are known.

Are you planning your trip to Morocco? For a real insider experience in Fes, reach out to Akim and his team at Marrakesh Voyage, the whl.travel and Urban Adventures local partner in Fes.

You can look but you can't bathe. The Roman Baths in Bath, England, allow visitors to enter and photograph, but you shouldn't plan on taking a soak here - no bathing allowed. Photo courtesy of Flickr/heatheronhertravels

The Namesake: Bath’s Roman Baths

The Roman Baths in England are so famous that a city was named after them. Bath, in the west of the country, has been frequented for centuries by visitors in search of soothing waters and supreme relaxation. The city of Bath became so popular that in the 19th century, it was the place to see and be seen in the high society of Jane Austen’s novels.

Nowadays, though, the original Roman Baths are nothing more than a splendid tourist attraction with murky green waters. When I visited Bath last year, I sadly learned that visitors are no longer allowed to take a dip in the original pools. There are some newer spas open for bathers to soak in geothermal splendour, but if you’re looking for a high-society remedy at the original baths of Bath, I’m afraid you’re a few centuries too late.

In Budapest, Hungary, the Széchenyi Baths (above) and the Gellért Baths are favoured by tourists for their grandeur. Other baths, like Király, offer similar ambiance, but are smaller and with fewer crowds. Photo courtesy of Flickr/karaian

The Ornate: Budapest’s Thermal Baths

Budapest, by contrast, is a city where even the most famous baths are definitely open to the public. In fact, all of Budapest’s thermal baths, which are scattered throughout the city, are accessible to and frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Most visitors to Budapest head straight for the Széchenyi or Gellért thermal baths, and rightly so, considering they are the city’s two most famous and most opulently decorated. Situated in the middle of City Park, Széchenyi has indoor and outdoor baths housed in a magnificent and imposing Neo-Baroque structure surrounded by meticulously kept gardens. The Art Deco-style Gellért Baths are equally prestigious, but located near Gellért Hill in Buda, close to the Liberty Bridge.

Both the Széchenyi and Gellért can get very busy during the peak tourist season, especially in July and August. For a more local experience, head to one of Budapest’s other baths, like Király, which I visited a few years ago. We were easily the only tourists in there, and while the architecture and decor was far less impressive that of Széchenyi or Gellért, it certainly felt like a more authentic thermal soak.

The Blue Lagoon hot springs in Iceland are every bit as sublime as they're hyped to be. Photo courtesy of wkikmedia/SketchUp

The Ethereal: Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

Geothermals are one of Iceland’s many natural resources. As such, they have been used by generations of Icelanders to stay warm in the winter and keep their skin soft against the dry air.

Iceland has many hot springs, thermal baths and spas throughout its volcanic and rugged landscape, but the one that most people visit is the luxurious Blue Lagoon. Buses frequently cover the hour-long trip between the capital, Reykjavik, and the spa, making it easy for city tourists to indulge in some relaxation and pampering.

Despite not being a devout spa-goer, I had been looking forward to time at the Blue Lagoon on my trip to Iceland last year. It was one of my most memorable travel experiences, particularly since the thermal bath was only sparsely attended, and because the waters are simply incredible. Soft white clay coats the floor of the lagoon, and the pale cobalt waters release a wispy, ethereal steam. The surroundings easily allow visitors to turn off and pretend they’re in a completely different world.

The bathing experience in Aguas Calientes, Peru, was a little disappointing. The author's mum was right - chose your bathing waters carefully. Photo courtesy of Lindsay Young

The Dirty Dip: Aguas Calientes

Unfortunately, not all spa experiences are created equal. A few years ago, in Peru, I was determined to take a dip in the hot baths of Aguas Calientes, the aptly named town at the base of Machu Picchu. While the other members of my tour were enthusiastically heading off to the pools, my mum suggested that I skip the dip and wander with her through the town instead.

I politely refused and joined our tour mates. What I found was less luscious than expected. The baths weren’t ‘caliente,’ or hot, as the name promised. They also weren’t particularly clean. After a short time I decided that Mum was right and I didn’t really want to be in the baths anymore.

As I left, not only did I find someone else’s long black hair on my leg, I even saw local Peruvian men shaving and performing other ablutions in the showers next to the baths. It wasn’t until later, during our tour of Machu Picchu, that I also learned that when hikers return from their Inca Trail hike to Machu Picchu, many of them make their first stop at the hot baths of Aguas Calientes to soak away four days of…well, everything.

There are some baths you can’t go to, some baths you definitely don’t want to miss and some baths you should avoid altogether… unless, that is, you’ve just finished the Inca Trail.

Antigua & Barbuda

Head to the islands in the heart of the Caribbean. While most travellers from the northern hemisphere prefer to travel to the Caribbean between November and February, the perennially perfect beach conditions and weather ensure Antigua and Barbuda a place on our list of autumn holiday locales. Antigua alone has 365 white, sandy beaches, but going to the beach is just scratching the surface of things to see and do on the islands. Activities range from sailing and diving at one of Barbuda’s 200 ship wrecks to visiting Barbuda’s Frigate Bird Sanctuary. Antigua and Barbuda have rich music, culture, song and dance, and centuries of traditions. If this isn’t enticing enough, hotel rates are significantly lower at this time of year.

Cartagena, Colombia

Once a favourite looting ground for Caribbean pirates, Cartagena is Colombia’s most popular holiday spot. Located on the country’s Caribbean coast, it is a spirited city with colourful buildings and lively residents. Founded in 1533, the city comprises the Ciudad Amurallada, or old walled city, and the modern Bocagrande. Beautiful Spanish architecture can be seen in the walled city, a UNESCO-recognised World Heritage Site, especially the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas fortress that was built in the 17th century and the colonial houses. Cartagena’s cultural heritage isn’t its only draw. The beaches of Cartagena, gorgeous scenery and delicious cuisine make it a spectacular choice for a holiday. High season begins in December, so travel here in autumn before the prices go up and ahead of Cartagena becoming South America’s most popular destination!

Lijiang, China

Rich cultural and historical traditions along with the kindness of the local residents have made Lijiang a popular destination for Chinese and foreign tourists alike. Its Old Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and the city’s unique architecture stems from its location at the confluence of Tibet, Sichuan and Yunnan provinces. Lijiang is surrounded by dramatic landscapes and snow-capped mountains where hiking and cycling are popular outdoor activities. The majority of the city’s inhabitants are ethnic minorities, particularly the Naxi, Yi and Bai, and there are many ways to experience the local, traditional way of life, particularly on a homestay trek. Autumn brings drier weather, cheaper hotel rates and fewer tourists to Lijiang. Don’t forget your hiking boots!

Vilnius, Lithuania

The bizarre bust of Frank Zappa isn’t the only reason we love Vilnius. Crowned the European Capital of Culture in 2009, this picture-perfect city has one of the largest World Heritage-listed old towns in the world; ; in spite of invasions, it has beautifully preserved Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance structures. Wandering through Vilnius’ labyrinthine streets and spending time in the living museum that is the city’s Old Town transports you back to medieval Lithuania. Vilnius residents are no strangers to occupation, and because of it delight in independence, cultural events and festivals. Even the capital has its eccentricities, like the self-proclaimed independent city called the Republic of Užupis. If you’re more interested in history, travel a short distance to the medieval island castle of Trakai. Fewer tourists travel to Lithuania in autumn as the weather is turning colder, but we think it’s the perfect time to experience Vilnius without the crowds.

The Gulf of Hammamet, Tunisia, as seen from the whitewashed buildings in the ancient medina

Hammamet, Tunisia

Stunning whitewashed buildings aren’t only found in Greece. Though it’s billed as North Africa’s premier beach destination and is better known as the ‘Tunisian St. Tropez,’ Hammamet is a seaside destination with much more to offer those in search of R and R. The city itself is surrounded by the ancient fortification of the Hammamet Kasbah and the narrow back alleys that reach toward the old medina are full of bright, whitewashed buildings with blue trim and intricate architectural designs. Hammamet and the surrounding region of Tunisia have a glorious history and ancient Roman baths famous for healing mineral waters are located within the city’s medina, while the Roman ruins of Pupput are only three kilometres away. The cooler autumn climate and Hammamet’s proximity to the capital, Tunis, make trips to Tunis and Carthage as easy as those to other Roman ruins, like Thuburbu Majus and Dougga. The combination of past and present, the Mediterranean climate and off-season deals pin Hammamet as our pick in Africa.

Krak des Chevaliers is a massive and well-known fort located on a 650-metre summit in Syria. This was the main stronghold that defended the Levantine region in days of the Crusades.

Living History

In Damascus and Aleppo lie ruins built on top of other ruins. The Damascene Umayyad mosque, for example, was a Byzantine church and an Aramaic temple; and the Aleppo Citadel, a fort used to repel crusaders, dates back to the time of the Hittites in 18th century BC.

You can visit these cities and experience the beauty of the Ottoman era through ancient Aleppine and Damascene houses, hammams (baths), souqs (markets) and even khans (traditional roadside inns) where the Silk Road merchants rested their caravans. For centuries both destinations have been friendly places to relax, as well as favoured spots for travellers to enjoy mouth-watering cuisine – a must even today on any food-lover’s travel itinerary.

The Citadel of Aleppo, Syria, is considered one of the oldest and largest castles in the world

The Roots of Civilisation

Syria is also renowned as the birthplace of civilisation. Excavations near Aleppo in Tellet Al Sauda and Tell Qaramel and near Damascus in Tel Ramad and the basin of the Barada River provide solid evidence that there were human settlements here well before 7000 BC. Elsewhere, the ancient ‘Dead Cities’ like Ebla and Mari have left their marks on the millennia and each other on account of their many battles. They are a major part of early Mesopotamian history and proof that from the simple story of Syria’s beginnings spring a million others.

The Roman Legion Trail

Palmyra, nicknamed ‘the bride of the desert,’ is more than just a place in Roman history: it is a place of passion. As tens of thousands of Syrians feel ‘wed’ to this bride, they flock here whenever they can and always cherish the sight of the sun rising and setting behind the Roman decuman (gate). Bosra, Sergiopolis and Old Damascus are other places where you can trace the trail of the Roman legions.

In Palmyra, take a step back into the Roman era of Syrian history. This is the land of the heroic Queen of Zenobia, a woman braver than most men.

Crusader Castles

Krak des Chevaliers, Margat, Aleppo Citadel and Saladin Citadel gained notoriety during the Crusades. These castles, whose grace is still preserved in their might and towering height, are surviving medieval military marvels that sultans and lords once chose as their bases. Relics and reminders of the centuries-long wars they saw are also found along the amazing Mediterranean Syrian coast.

Open to All Visitors

Thankfully, the USA has recently eased the restrictions on travel to Syria that were put in place in 2006 after threats were made on the US Embassy in Damascus. That the threats went unrealised is a reflection of the true nature of the nation: a peaceful, multicultural society where people from different backgrounds live side by side in harmony. As far back as 6000 BC, the diversity of cultures and faiths that grew together in Syria is astounding. From its gorgeous green mountains, dazzling deserts, picturesque plateaux and prairies to its beautiful blue sea, Syria is indeed the place to be.

For any other information about Damascus, Aleppo and other Syrian destinations, including accommodation, tours and activities, and lots of insider tips, Ghazal Tours is your whl.travel local connection.

Dalmatia, the stunning coastal region of Croatia, is home to a multitude of fascinating ports and villages, the largest of which is the harbour town of Split. An obligatory stop on any Croatian holiday, the site was even chosen as a retirement home by the Roman emperor Diocletian. It is now also a thriving transportation hub from which travellers can explore the surrounding region and Croatia’s renowned coastal islands.

Traditional wooden boats docked in front of Diocletian's Palace on a summer night in Split, Croatia

Split captures the true essence of the Adriatic while retaining a strong sense of historic intrigue, both crucial qualities that help deliver to visitors a unique and memorable sense of place. The heart of the town is built within and around the ruins of Diocletian’s Palace and is composed of a vast network of marble-paved streets along which many Split restaurants serve delicious fresh seafood meals. The crisp, salt-infused air of the flourishing harbor and the awe-inspiring Roman architecture of the city centre are a draw for many visitors, who use the town as a convenient base of operations from which to tour neighbouring areas and the rest of the country.

With the launch of the whl.travel’s www.split-hotels-croatia.com, travellers are now connected to the local expertise of Katarina and her team at Katarina Line Travel Agency. This family-owned business has been in operation for over 15 years and provided to thousands of travellers a wide variety of services, including reservations at a range of Split hotels and unforgettable cruises. On her family-business success, Katarina says “we take great pride in delivering the kind of care and personalised service that brings Split to life and provides for the atmosphere so many enjoy!”

Whether visitors are seeking a relaxing Adriatic cruise or a walk along the refreshing harbourside promenade, Split is one of the top vacation spots on the Dalmatian coast. The Split travel portal is the joins whl.travel following the Kvarner region, which covers Rijeka and Opatija.

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IN CROATIAN / NA HRVATSKOM:

Hrvatska prekrasna obalna regija Dalmacija se sastoji od mnoštva zapanjujućih luka i mjesta, od kojih je najočaravajuća sigurno morska luka grada Splita. Obavezna postaja svakog putovanja Hrvatskom, ovaj grad je jednom davno bio odmorište za rimskog cara Dioklecijana, a danas je brzorasteće prometno središte iz kojeg putnici istražuju okolicu i otoke.

A team dinner of Katerina Line, the whl.travel local connection for Split, Croatia

U samom srcu grada nalazi se Dioklecijanova Palača okružena golemom mrežom mramornih ulica i mnogim splitskim restoranima koji poslužuju ukusnu morsku hranu. Svježi morski zrak i rimska arhitektura koja izaziva strahopoštovanje su samo neki od razloga za posjetiti Split. Ovo je uistinu intrigirajuća destinacija koja zahvaća pravu bit Jadrana i nudi svakom posjetitelju jedinstveno iskustvo koje će se sigurno pamtiti.

S postavljanjem najnovijeg whl.travel portala, www.split-hotels-croatia.com putnici su sada povezani sa lokalnim stručnjacima Katarinom i njenom ekipom u Katarini Line Travel Agency. Ova obiteljska firma radi već više od 15 godina i pruža održive usluge tisućama putnika svake godine, uključujući i niz splitskih hotela i nezaboravna krstarenja Jadranom. O svom uspješnom obiteljskom poslu Katarina kaže da ‘sa velikim ponosom i brigom pružamo personaliziranu uslugu kojom gostima oživljavamo Split i nudimo atmosferu u kojoj mnogi uživaju’.

Bez obzira traže li posjetitelji opuštajuće krstarenje Jadranom ili šetnju splitskom Rivom, Split drži mjesto jednog od najatraktivnijih odredišta na jadranskoj obali.

Travellers to Hammamet are routinely amazed by the sheer beauty of the ‘Tunisian Saint Tropez’. Frequented even during ancient Roman times because of its healing mineral baths and known today for its historic medina and beautiful beaches, Hammamet practically oozes tradition.

Houses in the Medina look out over the tranquil, azure waters of the Gulf of Hammamet

Located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea at the start of trade trails leading deep into the Sahara Desert, Hammamet’s Medina, or Old City, is surrounded by a series of early 16th-century fortifications. Setting foot within is like stepping back in time as you wander past donkeys and street vendors in the city’s narrow lanes or take in the largest Roman necropolis in Africa at the ruins of Pupput.

If your appetite for history has been whetted, head north for a day-trip exploration of the ancient ruins of Carthage, west on a Roman Cities Tour or further afield south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kairouan, Capital of Islamic Culture 2009 and North Africa’s holiest city.

If you’re able to pry yourself away from sunbathing on spotless beaches and want to see more of Hammamet’s gorgeous Mediterranean coast, the city sits on the edge of the Cap Bon Peninsula, which can be is best taken in on a day trip. A tour takes in the area’s outstanding natural beauty as well as local craftsmen at work.

Of course, Hammamet hotels could act as your base of operations for seeing the sights, tastes and sounds of Hammamet as well as the wider area.

whl.travel’s launch of www.travel-hammamet.com, which covers Hammamet and Nabeul, connects travellers with Tarak and the team at Capitol Travel.

The Triumphal Arch of Antoninus marks the entrance to the ruins of the Roman city of Sufetula, very close to modern day Sbeitla

On behalf of the Capitol Travel Team, Tarak Ben Rached says: “We are passionate about the destinations we serve and take great pleasure in being in direct contact with our guests and changing their preconceptions of Tunisia. For us, cultural exchange and the opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life are the most rewarding aspects of working in tourism.”

Hammamet is the first whl.travel destination portal to be launched for Tunisia.

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EN FRANÇAIS / IN FRENCH:

Les voyageurs à Hammamet sont régulièrement surpris par la beauté de la ‘Saint Tropez Tunisienne’. Fréquentées, même pendant l’antiquité romaine en raison de ses bains theramaux de guérison et connu aujourd’hui pour son historique médina et de ses belles plages, Hammamet veille a conserver ses traditions.

Situé sur les rives de la mer Méditerranée au départ de sentiers pour le désert et le Sahara, la Médina, ou la vieille ville, est entouré par une série de fortifications du début du 16e siècle. En mettant le pied dedans c’est comme remonter dans le temps ; vous vous promenez dans les ruelles étroites de la ville ou prenez le temps de visiter la plus importante nécropole romaine en Afrique dans les ruines de Pupput.

Customers enjoy a quiet drink in the famous Cafe Bouhdid, just outside Hammamet's ancient walls

Si votre appétit pour l’histoire a été aiguisé, allez au nord pour une journée d’exploration  des ruines antiques de Carthage, à l’ouest sur une tour des villes romaines ou plus loin au sud vers le Site du patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO de Kairouan, Capitale de la culture islamique 2009 et ville la plus sainte du Nord de l’Afrique.

Si vous êtes capable de vous grappiller des bains de soleil sur les plages immaculées et que vous souhaitez voir la plus magnifiques côte méditerranéenne de Hammamet, la ville est située sur le bord de la Péninsule du Cap Bon, Qui peut être plutôt des mesures sur un Day Trip. Une visite dure en beauté naturelle exceptionnelle de la région ainsi que des artisans locaux au travail.

Bien sûr, Hammamet hôtels pourrait agir comme base d’opérations pour voir les images, les goûts et les sons de Hammamet Ainsi que la zone en plus large.

whl.travel en lancement de www.travel-hammamet.com, qui couvre Hammamet et Nabeul, relie les voyageurs avec Tarak et l’équipe de Capitol Travel.

Au nom de l’équipe de Capitol Travel, Tarak Ben Rached a écrit: “Nous sommes passionnés par les destinations que nous desservons et de prendre beaucoup de plaisir à être en contact direct avec nos invités et de changer leurs idées préconçues de la  Tunisie. Pour nous, les échanges culturels et la possibilité d’interagir avec des personnes de tous les milieux de vie sont les aspects les plus gratifiants de travailler dans le tourisme. ”

Hammamet est le premier portail de whl.travel qui sera lancé pour la Tunisie.

The Ihlara Canyon is the largest gorge of Cappadocia, a natural and historic wonder. The formations seen here are near Selime Village, near where a Star Wars movie was filmed.

Cappadocia is also rich in history, with archaeological evidence of inhabitation since prehistoric times. Unfortunately, most visitors – and even some locals – don’t know that besides the cave churches, mummies, underground cities and moonscape rocks, there are also newly uncovered Roman pools and beautiful villages hidden in primitive little-visited valleys.

The local doll market of Soganli Village is the best place to buy Cappadocia's famous handmade dolls.

Soganli Valley

In spite of its historic and natural qualities, Soganli Valley remains far off the beaten Cappadocian track. It has stunning scenery, cave churches and monasteries… and Soganli Village is where the famous handmade wooden dolls of Cappadocia are produced.

Until tourists showed an interest in them, these dolls were no more than children’s toys. Today, however, increasingly widespread attention to them has contributed to the growth of tourism in the area and provided the women with important extra income. The steady rise in demand has even made it possible for the men to join in the process instead of searching for work outside the village.

These ‘Soganli dolls’ are now bought in bulk and distributed to souvenir shops throughout Turkey, where they’re sold for US$2-5, depending on the size. Of course buying directly from the women in the village centre means the profit stays with them.

For more, visit the Cappadocian Doll Museum in Mustafapasa, 5km south of Ürgüp.

Sobessos Ancient City

Still unknown, yet soon certain to be added to tour itineraries, are the newly discovered Roman baths in the Sobessos Ancient City, the only late-Roman/early-Byzantine settlement in the greater Cappadocia area. It’s located in the Sahinefendi Village, on the way to Soganli Valley, 30-40 kilometres southeast of the tourist accommodation hubs.

This woman is from a village of southern Cappadocia. The people of Cappadocia still store potatoes in caves. Before selling them, the good must be sorted from the bad, the latter being cut into pieces and fed to animals.

Eating like a Local

The area’s volcanic soil is very fertile, and the local agricultural products are keystones of Cappadocian cuisine, built around cherries, apricots, wheat, potatoes, chickpeas and of course the grapes for local wine. Throughout the area, some families will cook traditional Cappadocian meals for visitors. Reserve through local agents or hotels, at least five or six hours in advance.

There are also small “Lokanta” restaurants that, if not offering the best service, are very reasonably priced (US$7-10). Travellers in Ürgüp should try Sofra; in Avanos visit Dayinin Yeri, a delicious kebap house.

General Travel Hints

* The best times to visit are in April and October, when temperatures make outdoor activities possible. If coming during the hot season (June through August), time visits carefully. For example, go to the underground city around noon when it‘s a stifling 35-40°C but comfortable in the cave.

* All villages can be reached by Dolmuş from bus terminals (called Otogars) in all the major towns, fares ranging from 2-5 Turkish Liras.

* The most crowded place in Cappadocia is the Göreme Open Air Museum, 2km outside Göreme Village (accessible by Dolmuş or rented bike). Go early in the morning or during lunch when the tour groups are elsewhere.

For more information about Cappadocia, including accommodations, tours, activities, all your travel needs, and lots of insider tips, contact your local whl.travel connection: Zafer Yazıcı and the team from Lirita Tours at www.cappadocia.travel.