TRAVEL SPECIAL NEW YEAR, NEW EXPERIENCES

NEW YEAR, NEW EXPERIENCES

A fabulous bucket list for 2019

CRUISE IN STYLE THROUGH GREEK ISLANDS
Region: Nafplio, Greece

If you’re contemplating a cruise in 2019, the Greek archipelago is just perfect. For a culture hit, try Nafplio, a seaport town in the Peloponnese. Nafplio is pitted as one of the most beautiful towns in the area of Argolis (in eastern Peloponnese) as well as one of the most romantic cities all over Greece. Ruled by Frankish, Venetian, and Turkish conquerors, Nafplio offers a diverse landscape of medieval castles, fortified islets, and beaches. It is fairly less frequented than its other Greek counterparts. A walking tour is perfect to soak-up Nafplio’s charm; explore the medieval Old Town, the narrow cobblestone alleys, the neoclassical well preserved mansions with the Bougainvillea trees adorning their yards and balconies and the Turkish fountains. Head to the city centre to discover the Italianate Syntagma Square where you can admire important historic buildings and monuments. The Archaeological Museum with important artifacts from the Prehistoric and Mycenaean Era and the Municipal Gallery are among the buildings that stand out. The Palamidi Castle, which proudly stands 216 m above sea level can be your next stop. Although, you have to brave a flight of 99 stairs to get to the top.

Visit the Bourtzi, a Venetian fortress located on the islet of Agioi Theodoroi, a short ferry ride away from the island of Nafplio. Make sure you head there early in a evening, so that you are in time to enjoy the sunset view towards the city.

Learn about Saffron cultivation
As Responsible Tourism gains momentum, organic farm tours get set to offer authentic experiences
Region: Taliouine, Morocco

With the growing awareness towards Agritourism and Farm Tourism, 2019 is perfect to experience the saffron farms in Taliouine, Morocco. Saffron farmers in southern Morocco have long taken pride in the coveted spice they produce from the purple-petalled Crocus Sativus or saffron crocus. The town of Taliouine, located at the heart of the Sirwa Mountains between Ouarzazate and Agadir sees beautiful saffron deck up the farms during its prime season in October. The bulbs of the flowers are planted in September and come to bloom in a month’s time transforming the chalky landscape into a sea of purple and green, a sight to behold. In ancient times the women of the village would harvest the saffron, a painstaking and time consuming job, from the wild flowers that grew on the mountainside. You can gain insights on the production of saffron by visiting a farm in Taliouine, a truly worthwhile experience. Local farm establishments offers a tour of the village, a history of saffron and the farm, and the opportunity to sample one of the most prized spices in the world. Enjoy a cup of saffron tea and lend these traditional producers of saffron an ear, as they share insights on how they are trying to protect their renowned and pure spice against counterfeit products.

Wildlife and more Enjoy a local fest and the tundra landscape in Manitoba
Region: Manitoba, Canada

Manitoba, the fifth most popular province of Canada, is literally, at the centre of everything. Winnipeg, the capital of the province, has a host of attractions to lure you. The month of February marks the celebration of the Festival du Voyageur- a fiesta which offers a piece of Canadian history through authentic food, entertainment and snow sculptures. At the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, you are sure to be aweinspired. A national treasure of memorabilia here helps enhance your understanding of human rights.

Towards the northern end, near the township of Churchill, blurs boundaries with the wild; Polar Bears wander freely and Beluga Whales swim close to its shores. Safari packages are growing popular and hope to attract more visitors in the coming years. You can unravel the mysteries of the tundra landscape and learn about the native history at the Eskimo Museum.

Enjoy the unspoilt beaches of El Nido
Region: El Nido, Philippines

The desire to switch the routine chaotic life for a stay at a white-sand tropical paradise is always alluring. Although, may we suggest that this year pick a semi-remote island over the popular beaches thronged by tourist. El Nido, an archipelago comprising 45 islands and islets, sitting in the western part of Philippines, is one such destination. A small stretch of sand, pastel sunsets and a good climate make it a perfect year-round destination. What’s more? The limestonecliff decked island has long been a surf mecca. You can enroll at one of the many locally run surf school to avail of a lesson or two. The crystal-clear water allows you a glimpse of the healthy coral reefs teeming with life during snorkeling sessions. The archipelago also serves as a primary base for exploring Palawan’s star attraction, the stunning Bacuit Archipelago.

ETPTR 10JAN19