Just Back From

YAMDROK LAKE, TIBET

By Kara Frigon “Yamdrok Lake sits on the Southern Friendship Highway between Lhasa and Gyantse. At 5,000 meters above sea level, it feels like you’re touching the heavens. The sky looks like a great blue pool. White glaciers throw into relief dozens of multicolored prayer flags, yaks graze the mountainside, and the air rings with the sound of bells from nearby monasteries.”

Our specialists’ latest dispatches from Tibet, Italy, Iceland and Cambodia

GET INSPIRED

SIENA, ITALY

By Tylo Ward “Modern Siena is shaped by centuries of rivalries between districts known as contrade , which compete twice a year in the thrilling, sometimes-dangerous Palio horse race. Natives pledge lifelong allegiance to their contrada, often choosing friends and significant others based on these ties. On my last visit, my guide made me an honorary member of his Lupa (She-Wolf) District.”

TWIN CRATERS, ICELAND

By Laura Robinson “In February, I set out on a group research trip to Iceland – a new Audley destination launching later this year. We explored the Golden Circle, snorkeled the silfra fissure, hiked through Thingvellir National Park, enjoyed pastries in Reykjavik, and even took a helicopter ride over the twin craters (pictured here).”

PREAH VIHEAR, CAMBODIA

By Jack Tydeman “On my last research trip, and my sixth visit to Cambodia, I went on an exclusive temple safari, and stayed in a temple after it was closed to other visitors, removing me from the more touristy centers in Siem Reap. A comfortable tent and bed was set up for me, and I indulged in a threecourse dinner with full bar service – all of this in the wilds of Cambodia.”

AUDLEY TRAVELER | 41