MAGAZINE
TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES Discover routes to the past across five continents: take a pilgrimage through Spain, follow the Silk Road, cruise the Nile and explore Mayan temples
PLUS 10 heritage gems of Britain
Visit remote castles, Roman remains and Bronze Age burials
TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
WELCOME
MAGAZINE
over 120 expert-led journeys in 2015
enjoy special access to the greatest wonders of the ancient world introduced by leading historians and archaeologists.
Pompeii &Herculaneum Roman life revealed
Crete & Santorini Special access to Knossos
Rome - With private visit to the Sistine Chapel
Walking Hadrian’s Wall The final Roman frontier!
Ancient Jordan Petra to Lawrence
Troy - Classical cities of the Aegean Coast
St Petersburg - Special access to the Hermitage
Venice - Special access to St Mark’s basilica
Secrets of Stonehenge Special visit at first light
Relaxed Provence Food, culture & classics!
There are few better ways to escape the winter chill than planning, or even dreaming of, adventures in distant, sunnier lands. In case you need some inspiration, we’ve asked Lonely Planet’s editorial director Tom Hall to pick out 10 of his favourite historical travel experiences from across the globe. With everything from Hungarian baths to Mayan ruins, there should be something here to suit most tastes, Of course you may not be inclined to head so far afield, so we’ve also included an article on British heritage gems, written by regular magazine contributor Julian Humphrys. I hope you’ll find this supplement an interesting read and that you enjoy your heritage visits in 2015.
Ride a bullet train through Japan, Hike Australia’s p22 Blue Mountains, p8
Discover the Mayan ruins of Central America, p14
Rob Attar Editor Peru & Bolivia Glories of the Inca
Uzbekistan The Road to Samarkand
Malta & Gozo - Tombs, temples and crusaders
Cave Art in Dordogne 20,000 year old mysteries
For over 30 years, Andante Travels have offered travellers expert-led cultural tours exploring the great sites, people and places of the past. We have taken 1000’s of guests on tour all over the world, specialising in small groups, hand-picked hotels, excellent customer service and exclusive special access. Our Guide Lecturers, who accompany you throughout your tour, include some of the most respected historians and archaeologists of their generation. Fascinating, convivial, eye-opening and unstuffy introductions to the past and its people.
full 2015 brochure out now | prices from as little as £515 a few spaces left in spring 2015, for more details call 01722 713800 | tours@andantetravels.com | www.andantetravels.com
Trace the Silk Road through Uzbekistan, p6
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Cambodia & Vietnam Special access to Angkor
Top 10 Travel Experiences is a free supplement presented within the February 2015 issue of BBC History Magazine which is published by Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited under licence from BBC Worldwide. To contact us phone 0117 314 7377, email historymagazine@historyextra.com or write to BBC History Magazine, Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
Explore southern Italy’s Second World War sites, p18
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he ‘Way of St James’ offers an almost unique chance to walk in the footsteps of ancients. This near-500-mile odyssey, arguably the world’s greatest long-distance path and traversed since Roman times, has carried pilgrims across northern Spain to the tomb of St James since the Middle Ages. In fact, the Camino is not one trail but many, a network spidering across Europe and converging on the atmospheric city of Santiago de Compostela. Most walkers follow the Camino Frances (‘French Way’) from St-Jean-Piedde-Port in the French Pyrenees via Pamplona, Logroño and León. Towns and villages are only part of the appeal: the Pyrenees and the rural scenery of Spain provide a beautiful backdrop. The Camino is still very much an active pilgrimage route, and the joy of the walk is as much in meeting your fellow peregrinos as in the medieval churches, mountain paths and distinctive food and drink you’ll encounter along the way. Everyone has a different reason for taking on the Camino, so swapping stories and making friends as you walk can create an experience closer to Chaucer’s world than to our own. The logistics are refreshingly simple: if walking, stout boots and waterproofs are essential – otherwise simply follow the sign of the scallop shell, ancient symbol of the route. Peregrinos can stay at a network of simple refugios or albergues (hostels), though you’ll also find guesthouses and B&Bs if you want more comfort. You can walk (or horseride or cycle) the trail at any time of year but late spring and late summer arguably offer the best combination of decent weather and thinner crowds. If you can’t spare the five weeks it generally takes to complete the whole route, tackling the last 60 miles will earn you the compostela, a certificate of completion from the cathedral in Santiago.
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Swapping stories and meeting pilgrims en route creates an experience closer to Chaucer’s world than to our own
BEST TIME TO GO Late spring or late summer are the best seasons during which to tackle the route. TOUR OPERATORS Walks Worldwide walksworldwide.com
A cavalcade of iron pilgrims lines the ridge at Alto de Perdón on the Camino Frances – the ‘French Way’ to Santiago de Compostela
IF YOU LIKE THIS... P Peru’s Inca Trail offers a shorter (but tough) trek through the dramatic landscapes of the Andes and past ancient remains galore. P England’s Pilgrim’s Way from Winchester to Canterbury is hard to follow exactly, but the North Downs Way parallels much of the original route between Farnham and Canterbury.
ALAMY
TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES 4
Walk (or ride) the Camino de Santiago, Spain
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
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The backstreets are heady with the atmosphere of the days when caravans made these the most important places on Earth
F O R D I S C E R N I N G T R AV E L L E R S
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Kirker Holidays provide a range of carefully crafted escorted holidays, with fascinating itineraries designed for those with an interest in history, art, archaeology, architecture, gardens and music. Groups typically consist of 12-22 like-minded travellers, in the company of an expert Tour Lecturer. Other holidays include: The Palaces & Galleries Of St. Petersburg; Imperial Morocco; Sicily – An Enigmatic Island; The Bay of Naples; The Grandeur of Rome; Andalucian Discovery; The Western Front; Umbria – The Essence Of Italy; Ravenna, Urbino & The Courts Of Northern Italy; Florence – Cradle Of The Renaissance; Carcassonne & Albi; Istanbul & Gallipoli THE BATTLE OF WATERLOO
A THREE NIGHT HOLIDAY | 10 JULY & 2 OCTOBER 2015
Travelling by Eurostar, our three night Waterloo tour will be based at the 4* Hotel Metropole in Brussels. Tour Lecturer and expert military historian Hugh MacDonald-Buchanan will introduce the battle on the first evening. We will explore the battlefield itself on the second day, including Napoleon’s command at La Belle Alliance and Wellington’s command at La Haie, as well as Hougoumont and the Memorial to the British dead. Our third day will include visits to the sites of two battles fought against the French two days before Waterloo, and there will be free time in Brussels on ‘Battle of Waterloo from the English side’ the final day before we Sir William Allan, 1843. leave for London. Price from £798 for three nights including all dinners.
ARMENIA: A CAUCASIAN ADVENTURE
AN EIGHT NIGHT HOLIDAY | 20 MAY & 9 SEPTEMBER 2015
A land of mountain peaks, vibrant culture and ancient history, Armenia makes for a fascinating subject of this tour with Andrew Allen. We will travel from the capital Yerevan up to the snow-capped heights of Mount Ararat, past monasteries, waterfalls and vineyards, and visit Lake Sevan – one of the world’s highest lakes. The traditional village of Diljan, visited by Benjamin Britten, Shostakovich, and Rostropovich, as well as spectacular churches at Haghpat and Odzun are also highlights of a uniquely memorable holiday to the farthest fringe of Europe. Price from £2,496 for eight nights including all dinners, lunches and entrance visas for Armenia.
The stout turquoise minaret of the Kalta Minor looms over the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrassah (Islamic college) in the heart of Khiva
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
CORBIS
TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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or anyone who knows the history of trade with the Orient, the big-name destinations in Uzbekistan – Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva – have a near mythical quality. This is the land of turquoise-topped domes and bustling alleys packed with traders and hawkers, where you turn a corner and half-expect to find Marco Polo scribbling some notes. The centuries may have dragged this central Asian country into the modern world via the Soviet Union but you can, astonishingly, still find vestiges of the heyday of the Silk Road with surprising ease. Allow two weeks to explore Uzbekistan’s highlights. Tashkent, the capital, is the first introduction for most visitors. Samarkand’s Registan – a public square lined by monumental Islamic colleges – and Shah-i-Zinda necropolis will match most people’s mental image of central Asia, but they are the most-visited sites in the country and tend to be busy. More remote places such as Khiva and Shakhrisabz – birthplace of Timur (Tamerlane), the 14th-century leader who conquered much of central Asia – offer less hectic experiences. The ancient desert cities around Urgench and the backstreets of Bukhara, stuffed with BEST TIME TO GO incredible architecture, April to June and are heady with the September. atmosphere of the days when trade TOUR OPERATORS caravans made these Steppes Travel among the most steppestravel.co.uk important places on Earth. IF YOU LIKE THIS... Though a visa P There are even more remote central is required to visit Asian delights in Uzbekistan, this is much Turkmenistan, easier to obtain than it including the has been in the past. magnificent ancient Independent travel is oasis city of Merv. possible, but many opt P Unmissable to join a small group mausoleum? tour with a guide who Bucket-loads of can handle logistics, atmosphere? Agra, India still captures language and transport, the imagination for and help explain the its jaw-dropping country’s complex and monument, the fascinating history. Taj Mahal.
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C U LT U R A L T O U RS
Discover the treasures of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road cities
Speak to an expert or request a brochure:
020 7593 2284 quote code GBH www.kirkerholidays.com
A BALKAN QUINTET:
BOSNIA, CROATIA, MONTENEGRO, KOSOVO & ALBANIA AN ELEVEN NIGHT HOLIDAY | 24 APRIL & 11 OCTOBER 2015
Our tour through five countries will go some way to unravelling the mysteries of this remote and beautiful corner of Europe. Conflicts in the late 20th Century thrust the region into the headlines for far too long. During our travels around this varied and sometimes mysterious world, we will learn about how the region came to be such a religious melting pot, how it dealt with Ottoman rule and how it faces the future following its most recent modern upheavals. Price from £2,194 for eleven nights including all dinners and two lunches.
POLAND & THE HISTORY OF THE TEUTONIC KNIGHTS
A NINE NIGHT HOLIDAY | 29 MAY & 19 SEPTEMBER 2015
The history of the Teutonic Knights in north and east Europe is long, colourful, and violent. Ruthless and ambitious the Knights played by their own rules and turned on their hosts who had invited them to help combat pagan barbarians. Their legacy was one of magnificent castles and mediaeval towns. The tour will visit the historic Hanseatic city of Gdansk, mighty Malbork Castle, the main seat of the Knights and end in Warsaw where we visit the city’s palaces, galleries and Royal Palace from the comfort of the Bristol Hotel, one of the city’s finest hotels. Price from £2,480 for nine nights including nine dinners and four lunches.
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Tourists have flocked to admire the spectacular rock formations of the Jenolan Caves in Australia’s Blue Mountains since Victorian days
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
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Jenolan’s awesome stalactites and cathedral-like chambers used to be hard to reach
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TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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ourism in Australia is as old as European exploration of the country, and the stunning Jenolan Caves represented one of the premier attractions for 19th-century travellers in New South Wales. The construction of the railway from Sydney into the Blue Mountains brought an influx of visitors to Katoomba. Still, Jenolan’s awesome stalactites and cathedral-like chambers remained hard to reach, so hoteliers lobbied the government to build a horse track linking the town with the caves. Though the trail lasted only a few decades as an access route for the caves, today it has been reinvented as a walk through the area’s history and breathtaking natural beauty. The track, named after its original specified width – which allowed two loaded dray carts to pass each other – winds through superb scenery for 28 miles. This walk, therefore, is also a camping trip. It starts west of Katoomba at the Explorers’ Tree, where early pioneers carved their initials in 1813, and passes the remains of early settlements in the Megalong Valley. Along the way you might spot kangaroos, wombats and a huge array of birdlife. The walking is challenging at times, but this track is eminently accessible, with good transport links at either end and a fine range of accommodation BEST TIME TO GO in Katoomba. October to Nearby Sydney, of November and course, is home to some February to March. of Australia’s most important historical TOUR OPERATORS sights, from the Austravel austravel.com 18th-century district called The Rocks to the IF YOU LIKE THIS... magnificent Harbour P Tasmania’s Bridge. South of the city, remarkable convict you can visit the spot colony of Port where Captain Cook first Arthur, near the landed in 1770, and a state capital, dramatically situated Hobart, is another museum dedicated to rewarding slice of Australian heritage. the French explorer P Upstate New York Comte de La Pérouse, is another superb who landed a few years destination for after Cook but whose those looking to expedition vanished venture inland without a trace. beyond the big city.
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From border strongholds to grand retreats and from ancient burials to soaring Norman cathedrals, Julian Humphrys introduces 10 thrilling historical experiences across the UK
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Discover the Civil War from a pub that looks like a castle
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The Castle Inn, Edgehill, Warks
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We have Sanderson Miller, a local architect who specialised in gothic follies, to thank for one of Britain’s most unusual pubs. Based on Guy’s Tower at nearby Warwick Castle, it overlooks the
site of the first major action of the Civil War in England and was completed for the centenary of the battle in 1742. The castle first became a pub in 1822 and has recently been refurbished to create a dining room with panoramic views of the battlefield. There’s also a handy information panel with details about the battle of Edgehill, installed by the Battlefields Trust, in the adjacent beer garden. castleatedgehill.co.uk
Cromwell’s Castle, Tresco, Isles of Scilly
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Enjoy some unexpected Elizabethan exuberance
Standing on a rocky Atlantic promontory guarding the lovely anchorage between Bryher and Tresco, this round tower and gun platform is England’s most westerly fortification. It’s one of the few surviving Cromwellian fortifications in Britain, built after the conquest of the royalist Scillies in 1651. Getting there is an adventure in itself, involving a plane or boat from the mainland to St Mary’s, a second boat to Tresco and then a walk along a rocky coastal path past a secret cove used to transport Special Operations agents to and from France in the Second World War. english-heritage.org.uk
Plas Mawr, Conwy, Clwyd Though Conwy is best known for its monumental 13th-century castle, tucked away in its medieval centre is the finest
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Pull back the curtains on a theatrical cornucopia Smallhythe Place, Kent
Cromwell’s Castle on Tresco in the Isles of Scilly is over 15m high
The Castle Inn is said to mark the spot where King Charles raised the standard before the start of the battle of Edgehill
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Uncover Lincoln’s hilltop heritage
Lincoln Cathedral, Lincolnshire The city’s cathedral quarter is a breathtaking spot – particularly breathtaking if you arrive in the lower part of the city and struggle up the aptly named Steep Hill to reach it. But the delights that await you at the top make the climb well worthwhile. With its compact streets, magnificent cathedral and menacing castle, the area has an almost theatrical feel to it, especially at night. Your first view of the cathedral’s west front as you pass through the 14th-century Exchequer Gate into Minster Yard is unforgettable – be sure to visit at night, when it’s floodlit. lincolncathedral.com
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BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
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It’s hard to believe that, till the river Rother began to silt up in the 16th century, the hamlet of Tenterden was once one of England’s most important shipbuilding centres. Robert Brigandyne, who supervised the construction of the Mary Rose, was a native. But halftimbered Smallhythe Place has additional interest. The celebrated Victorian actress Ellen Terry spent her latter years there and the house is full of relics of her long life and career. Don’t miss the gown she wore while playing Lady Macbeth, covered with the iridescent wings of more than 1,000 beetles. nationaltrust.org.uk/ smallhythe-place Elements of Lincoln Cathedral date from as early as 1092
Tudor town house in Britain. Plas Mawr was built during the 1570s and 80s for Robert Wynn, a local businessman, diplomat and courtier. With its stepped gables, lookout tower and elaborate ornamentation it was a striking statement of its owner’s wealth and taste. Recently restored, its exuberant plasterwork is ornamented with brightly painted symbols: Tudor roses, heraldic badges, initials and classical imagery (pictured above). cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/ plasmawr
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All aboard for a coastal stronghold
Hurst Castle, Hampshire Built by Henry VIII to guard the western Solent, Hurst Castle maintained this important strategic role until relatively recently. The original cluster of bastions around a keep was extended in Victorian times to house gigantic cannon, some of which remain today. The castle, which briefly served as a prison to Charles I before his execution, stands on a windy spit jutting out into fast-flowing currents. You can walk there from Milford on Sea or catch the little ferry from Keyhaven and spot some birdlife on the way. hurstcastle.co.uk
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Walk in Hadrian’s footsteps
Corbridge, Northumberland Three miles south of Hadrian’s Wall, where Dere Street crosses the Stanegate, lie the extensive remains of the Roman town of Coria. You can walk the streets of this oncebustling settlement, admire the remains of its huge granaries and explore an impressive museum. Later inhabitants plundered the town for building material; St Andrew’s Church incorporates an arch from a Roman building, while its churchyard boasts a tower used as a refuge during attacks by Scottish raiders. visitnorthumberland.com/ corbridge
There’s much more than meets the eye at Harvington Hall
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Discover Harvington’s hidden heritage
Harvington Hall, Worcestershire This attractive brick moated manor house rather hides its light under a bushel. There’s no grand approach, just a narrow twisting lane. If its location is something of a secret, the house has some special
secrets of its own. The family who rebuilt it in the 1580s were Catholic, so needed to incorporate priest-hides in case the house was searched by the Protestant authorities. As a result there are seven ingeniously located hiding places in the hall – among the finest collections of priestholes in the country. Finding them all is quite a challenge! harvingtonhall.com
10 HERITAGE EXPERIENCES IN THE UK
EXPLORE BRITAIN’S HERITAGE GEMS
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Gaze out to sea from the last castle in England
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Find inspiration on the Scottish Borders
Smailholm Tower, Kelso, Borders This 15th-century tower house stands defiantly on a rocky crag about five miles west of Kelso. Its inaccessible location and high walls offered the Pringle family some protection from the Border Reivers who made life in the region such a misery until the Union of the Crowns in 1603. If you find the tower evocative and inspiring, you won’t be the first. Sir Walter Scott spent part of his childhood in the farm beneath it recuperating from illness, and it features in his work. Inside, a series of model figures illustrate scenes from traditional border plays and ballads. historic-scotland.gov.uk
Delve into the dome atop Cairnpapple Hill to see Bronze Age burials
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Climb back in time at Cairnpapple
Cairnpapple Hill, Lothian This very special place was established as a ceremonial site about 5,500 years ago before being used for burials during the Bronze Age. Sitting 300 metres above sea level, it’s easy to spot. Visiting it is a bit more of a challenge, though – reaching the top involves quite a climb, and you need to negotiate a ladder if you want to descend into the concrete dome on the top. But it’s well worth the effort, not least for the spectacular views from the summit. On a clear day you can even make out Goat Fell on the Isle of Arran. historic-scotland.gov.uk
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TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
4 A Nile cruise aboard a small felucca offers a romantic way of visiting the wonders of ancient Egypt
BEST TIME TO GO January to April.
Cruise Egypt’s Nile in style
TOUR OPERATORS Corinthian Travel corinthiantravel. co.uk
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IF YOU LIKE THIS... P Want to continue up the Nile? The Lake Nasser ferry sails from Aswan to Wadi Halfa in Sudan, a classic African border-crossing experience. P Get another view of history from the water by taking a vaporetto or two on a leisurely weekend in Venice.
aking a voyage on the Nile is one of the best ways of exploring the past while actually doing very little. Drifting gently along the world’s longest river gives plenty of time to contemplate the incredible history that left its marks on the banks. Indeed, many of the sites of ancient Egypt were designed to be viewed from the water, so a Nile cruise can be seen as key to research rather than a glorious indulgence. And yes, you can pretend to be Hercule Poirot in Death on the Nile when no one’s watching. You can choose from a variety of vessels, especially between Luxor and Aswan, where the greatest concentration of well-known sights ensures the largest number of boats. A small sailing felucca offers a simple but intimate experience, while large cruisers carry a party atmosphere. The ultimate Nile experience is a journey aboard a dahabiyya – a type of large,
luxurious wooden sailing boat that’s enjoyed a resurgence in recent years. The small number of cabins and flexible itineraries match many people’s dreams. On most itineraries you can expect to see the temples at Esna, Edfu and Kom Ombo as well as side-trips around Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. If at all possible, take a boat that also stops at smaller sights such as the rock-hewn temples at Gebel el-Silsila, and try not to pack too much into one day. Though Luxor to Aswan or vice versa is a standard route, a growing number of vessels offer explorations of sites beyond Abu Simbel on Lake Nasser. There are also signs of a resumption of cruises between Cairo and Luxor, which would pass less well-known ruins including Dendera and Abydos. At journey’s end you can travel to Cairo on the fabulous Watania sleeper train service, another wonderful Egyptian experience.
Framed by its isolation, St Helena weaves an extraordinary tapestry of breath-taking natural beauty with over 500 years of history and culture. One of the last truly undiscovered destinations.
Delve into Central America’s jungle-clad ruins
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BEST TIME TO GO December to May. TOUR OPERATORS Journey Latin America journeylatinamerica. co.uk
Much of the Mayan city of Palenque, largely built in the seventh century, is still shrouded by the lush tropical jungle of south-eastern Mexico
you to numerous other ancient sites, the best-known being Tikal, a sprawling, jungle-set complex. The beautiful colonial town of Antigua in Guatemala is a good base from which to head to the ruins of Copán just over the border in Honduras.
Though many visitors join an organised tour taking in the main sights, it’s easy to put together your own Central American itinerary, flying into Cancún and travelling onward by bus and local transport. As at Angkor in Cambodia or Bagan in Burma,
IF YOU LIKE THIS... P Ciudad Perdida, Colombia, is a historic treasure lurking in dense rainforest – plan a thrilling jungle hike. P Nan Madol, Micronesia, is an ancient ruined city off the shore of the tropical island of Pohnpei.
some sites can be explored by bicycle – another great way to leave behind the crowds. The balmy tropical weather, lushly beautiful landscapes and abundant ecotourism opportunities come as an added bonus.
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
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hough the jungle of Central America has done its best to reclaim the pyramids, temples and towns of its ancient civilisations, many of these remarkable places remain in fantastic condition – and dripping with atmosphere. Thanks to growing awareness of the pre-Columbian history of this region, a tour of its historic sights is more rewarding and achievable than ever before. The logical place to start is Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula, location of Mayan marvels including beachside Tulum, Chichén Itzá and Coba, the latter being gloriously unexplored. Farther west, Palenque is arguably the best-preserved of all Mayan remains, its ornately detailed pyramids shrouded by forest packed with howler monkeys, parrots and ocelots. Once away from the coast at Cancún, the crowds thin. Extending your journey into Guatemala and Honduras brings
St Helena Island
images: www.marclavaud.com
“the most extraordinary place on earth” Tel: + 290 22158 | www.sthelenatourism.com | e-mail: enquiries@tourism.co.sh
TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
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Take a dip in Hungary’s historic thermal spas
For the classic Budapest image of old men playing chess while being gently poached and steamed, head to the Széchenyi Baths
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Baths, a slice of old Ottoman Budapest. Where’s grandest? The Gellért Baths, where you can generally arrange spa treatments on the spot – or just wallow in the warm pools inside this superb art nouveau edifice. Budapest doesn’t have a monopoly on combining history with hot water. Eger’s Turkish bath, though renovated through the centuries, recalls the Ottoman era. And at Gyula in north-east Hungary you can bathe in the shadow of the town’s mighty castle. Many baths are open to men or women only at designated times or on specific days, so check ahead. Bring a swimming cap unless you want to end up wearing the less-than-flattering ones available to borrow. Low-cost airlines serve Budapest, which is the hub for public transport around Hungary. Trains link major cities and towns, though buses can be cheaper and more efficient.
BEST TIME TO GO July and August – though midwinter can be dramatic. TOUR OPERATORS Regent Holidays regent-holidays. co.uk
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here aren’t too many places where you can literally bathe in architectural heritage, but Hungary is one of them. There are hundreds of hot springs across the country, many of which have been used for centuries for bathing, celebrated for their health-giving properties. While many of them are modern facilities – most useful if you need to bribe any children you have in tow with a whizz down a slide – others are relics of bygone ages. Exploring them is a fun way to delve head-first into Hungary’s complex and fascinating history. The Hungarian capital is home to Europe’s finest set of bathing options. For sheer size, and the classic Budapest image of old men playing chess while being gently poached and steamed, aim for the Széchenyi Baths in the City Park, built in neo-Baroque style in 1913. Far older, dating back to 1566, is the Rudas
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
Budapest’s magnificent Széchenyi Baths complex – the largest in Europe – features 15 indoor sections and three grand open-air pools
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
IF YOU LIKE THIS... P Istanbul, capital of Turkey, is another fabulous place for a historic dip. P Vienna, up the Danube in Austria, offers more glorious layers of central European history.
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icily and the south of mainland Italy played a crucial role in the latter stages of the Second World War. It was from here that from mid-1943 British and American troops fought their way north, attempting to knock Italy out of the conflict and take decisive control of the Mediterranean. Despite the Italian armistice agreed after Mussolini’s fall from power, the occupying German forces that controlled much of Italy were desperate to deny the Allies both a base from which to attack the Balkans and access to airstrips. This fascinating theatre of war rewards exploration today – from the beachheads in Sicily to Monte Cassino in the Apennine Mountains, where desperate combat prefaced the breaking of the Gustav Line. Another iconic location in that push, Anzio, provided the gateway to an advance on Rome, and its war cemetery is another notable landmark in the conflict. The remains of the Gustav and Gothic Lines can still be explored in places. The region also boasts wonderful cities and ancient sites – Paestum, Pompeii, Syracuse – that can be easily combined with 20th-century history, making this one of Europe’s most rewarding areas for BEST TIME TO GO wandering through relics May to September. of the past. TOUR OPERATORS An array of low-cost Battlefield Tours flights make creating a battlefieldtours. point-to-point itinerary co.uk; Reveille simple. The easiest Battlefield Tours way to get around is reveillebattle by car, though several fieldtours.co.uk companies offer organised tours of IF YOU LIKE THIS... P Closer to home, Second World War Second World War sites in Italy.
The region boasts wonderful cities and ancient sites that can be easily combined with 20th-century history
Houses of Parliament
The Polish war cemetery at Monte Cassino commemorates the epic battle of 1944 during which Allied forces smashed through the Gustav Line across Italy
Houses of Parliament
Visit one of the world’s most iconic buildings
parliament.uk/visiting 020 7219 4114
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beachheads and battle sites dot northern France, especially Normandy. P The signs of an earlier invasion of Italy are evident in the sixth-century mausoleum and basilica of Ravenna, built by Ostrogoths.
Taking in a combination of battlefields, memorials and War Cemeteries you’ll learn why battles were fought at particular locations and your guide will help you interpret the landscape and look for signs of the battle evident today. Whatever your area of interest, our guides will make
sure you get the most out of your visit. All coach departures feature FREE local joining points, and the option to upgrade to luxury Silver Service coach with extra legroom and rear lounge. Choose from 53 escorted tours featuring WWI, WWII and other campaigns... below are ideal introductory tours for WWI and WWII:
• Specialist Battlefield Guides • More than 500 regional joining points
WWII – D-Day Landings in Normandy 4 and 5-day breaks, prices from £229*
• From only £229*
Call today for your FREE 52-page colour brochure on
0844 692 3259 or visit www.battlefieldvisits.co.uk
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
• 53 Battlefield tours
WWI – All Quiet on the Western Front 4 and 5-day breaks, prices from £249*
All holidays are subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply. The full terms and conditions applicable to your holiday can be found on our website. *Includes Early Booking Special Offer
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TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
Explore the battlegrounds of southern Italy
TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
8 BEST TIME TO GO April to June and September to October. TOUR OPERATORS Kuoni kuoni.co.uk IF YOU LIKE THIS... P Another remarkably wellpreserved ancient town is the Roman port of Ostia Antica, close to the Italian capital. P At the other end of Turkey are the breathtaking medieval Armenian ruins of Ani, in glorious isolation near the modern border with Armenia.
The Roman library of Celsus at Ephesus was built in the second century AD to store some 12,000 scrolls – and as a tomb
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urkey is a richly rewarding destination, retaining ample evidence of the importance it held for millennia as the crossroads of the world. It has more ancient Greek remains than Greece, more Roman ruins than Italy, and in Istanbul it has the ultimate strategic city, endlessly coveted and fought over through the centuries. Turkey’s Ottoman heritage can be easily explored in towns and
Bamburgh The King of Castles
Tour western Turkey cities throughout the country. Everywhere you go you’ll meet friendly locals proud to show off nearby monuments, churches and mosques. With such widespread riches, knowing where to start can be a challenge, but western Turkey offers a sensible introduction. No visitor should pass up the opportunity to see Istanbul’s masterpiece, Hagia Sophia, along with the 16th-century architect Sinan’s magnificent mosques, and secular sights such as the Galata Tower and the Byzantine Cistern. On an extensive tour of the region, Gallipoli’s stirring landscape and memorials make for an excellent first stop. After crossing the iconic Dardanelles, Gallipoli is easily combined with the ancient remains at Troy, which has a new on-site museum. The next logical destination is Ephesus, where the astonishing Roman
remains represent a remarkably complete classical metropolis, a sprawling site that would make a wonderful finish to any trip. But don’t sprint through the gateway town of Selçuk: as well as interesting Byzantine remains you’ll find the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. If you have time, a side trip to the amazing rock formations of Cappadocia makes a wonderful addition to such an itinerary. One of the delights of travel in Turkey today is how easy it is to get around, with low-cost flights and modern, comfortable buses in abundance, though car hire is a convenient option for some of the itinerary. In 2015 the high-speed train line between Istanbul and Ankara will be complete, helpful for exploring this most intriguing of destinations.
magnificent [BAMBURGH CASTLE]
A visit to award winning Strawberry Hill is a truly theatrical experience. With the addition of five newly restored eccentric and colourful rooms, visitors will enjoy the beautiful interiors of Horace Walpole’s ‘little gothic castle’.
www.strawberryhillhouse.org.uk
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20 Miles of Steam train travel between Bishops Lydeard (4 miles from Taunton - Home of Somerset County Museum) and Minehead Along the way trains serve the ancient harbour town of Watchet ( 2 small museums), Washford (alight for Cleeve Abbey - English Heritage) and medieval Dunster with its 1000 year old castle (National Trust) Special Tickets ‘Dunster Castle Express’ and ‘Abbey and Apple Explorer’ available. www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk or 01643 704996
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Food stalls, musicians, storytellers and tourists throng Marrakesh’s Djemaa el-Fna square
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
ROBERT HARDING/GETTY IMAGES
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kasbahs, Berber villages and desert oases. Today, following in the footsteps of those ancient traders is a wonderful way to get a taste of Morocco, whether you do so by guided excursion from Marrakesh or take to a camel or mountain bike to explore further. Heading south-west rather than south-east from Marrakesh leads you to Tafraoute, a peaceful oasis town in the Berber BEST TIME TO GO. heartland in a March to May. beautiful setting. TOUR OPERATORS It’s as easy to fly to Complete Morocco Marrakesh as it is to completemorocco. reach the Canary com Islands – though, if you have time, an IF YOU LIKE THIS... overland journey P Fez is another through Spain, rightly celebrated boarding a fast ferry historic gem with a well-preserved to Tangiers and an 9th-century medina. onward train to P Try Jordan for Marrakesh, is an a beguiling mix enthralling alternative of ancient history way to reach this and more-modern distinctive destination. Islamic wonders.
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland NE69 7DF Telephone 01668 214515 Email administrator@bamburghcastle.com
www. bamburghcastle.com
Get lost on Morocco’s ancient trails orocco is the nearest truly exotic destination to the UK – a land of Saharan sands, soaring minarets and timeless villages. It is also, as befits a place that has been one of the world’s great crossroads, a richly rewarding place for a historic holiday. Marrakesh, of course, is the first name that springs to mind for most of us. But though the ‘Red City’ offers a wonderful sense of its past, there’s no denying that its honeypot status means its top sights are often crowded – notably by visitors who throng the Djemaa el-Fna square and thrill to its storytellers, acrobats and varied food stalls. Instead, use Marrakesh as a base, and reset your bearings towards the Sahara. Centuries ago, caravans traversed the beautiful Drâa Valley – through a landscape dominated by the Atlas Mountains and studded with palm trees – stopping at fortified
OPEN all year round, weekend opening in the winter. For our full events programme see our website.
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West Somerset Railway
Speed between Japan’s historic wonders by bullet train
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A geisha in traditional garb walks between the red torii (gates) of the Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine in Kyoto
cratch the surface of ultra-modern Japan and you’ll find a deep reverence for the past. And its heritage is surprisingly accessible even to visitors with just a few days to spare. Though Japan’s history can feel a little intangible in Tokyo, the easiest way to bring it into focus is to hop on a Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, passing Mount Fuji on the way. The imperial capital of Japan for more than a millennium, Kyoto has a legacy of 1,000 temples and tranquil gardens – and it’s easy to lose yourself among these fascinating sites. Rather than returning straight to Tokyo, take a long loop back via some other historical delights, travelling by a mixture of bus and train. This is a region ripe for exploring, dotted with gems such as the old centre of the ancient post town of Tsumago and the 16th-century castle of Matsumoto. Don’t miss wellpreserved stopovers such as the traditional centre of Takayama, the historic village of Shirakawago and the remarkably intact coastal town of Kanazawa. Echoes of Japan’s past aren’t limited to castles, temples and museums. A dance performed by a geisha in Kyoto is a timeless spectacle, instantly evoking Japan’s heritage. Traditions abound when bathing in onsen, hot springs found throughout the country, and in bathhouses in towns and cities. Of course, Japan’s distinctive cuisine will be a highlight of any trip, especially if you search out tiny old-fashioned backstreet eating and drinking dens, found even in Tokyo. Try the BEST TIME TO GO Golden Gai area of May and June. Shinjuku for a timeless TOUR OPERATORS cluster of bars and Japan Travel restaurants crammed japantravel.co.uk into tiny alleyways. Japan is a wonderful IF YOU LIKE THIS... destination in any P Traditional season, but spring and corners of Taiwan early autumn are reward the curious especially celebrated for Asian traveller. the spectacular displays P Northern Thailand of natural colours – is a temple connoisseur’s cherry blossom in paradise in a more spring, flame-hued tropical climate. leaves in autumn.
FULLY ESCORTED TOURS 2015
10
Travel with Mercury Holidays and receive better quality accommodation and a better level of service, with more included for hundreds of pounds less
9 days from
13 days from
£1895
SACRED PERU
Travel into the heart of South America to experience misty volcanoes, llamas, alpacas, hanging ancient tombs & Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, all set amidst the backdrop of the spectacular Andes. Witness the White City of Arequipa and stunning frescoes and paintings in mystical Catholic churches. Journey to Lake Titicaca, the highest and largest navigable lake in the world and Colca Canyon, famed for its deep ravines, majestic condors and hot springs. Add-on 3 nights B&B in Peru’s coastal area of Tumbes fr. £219
BRAZIL & ARGENTINA
BBC History Magazine Top 10 Travel Experiences
£1695
IMPRESSIONS OF VIETNAM
9 days from
£1095
£1295
From the ancient waterways of the Mekong Delta to the bustling cities of Hanoi and Saigon, this captivating tour is a great introduction to this unique and vibrant country. Seeped in its own rich traditions, history and culture, yet irrevocably shaped by the major ideas and events of the 20th century, all taking place against the backdrop of stunning landscapes and architecture,Vietnam really is a traveller’s dream.
Add-on 3 nights Bed & Breakfast in Buenos Aires fr. £149
£1195
Echoes of Japan’s past aren’t limited to castles, temples and museums – a dance performed by a geisha in Kyoto is a timeless spectacle
9 days from
An incredible introduction to Brazil and Argentina, this 9 day, 8 night tour offers a fantastic insight into some of the best the regions have to offer. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the flamboyant Rio de Janeiro, experience the wild thunder of the almighty Iguaҫu Falls and get lost in the alluring passion and elegance of Buenos Aires. This incredible tour combines natural wonders, tropical jungle, world famous beaches and vibrant cities.
10 days from
Add-on a 4 night ‘Temples of Cambodia’ extension fr. £399
16 days from
10 days from
£1895
£1395
COLOURS OF NEPAL
JEWELS OF SRI LANKA
CHINA DISCOVERY TOUR
WONDERS OF CHINA
Nepal is a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups, stunning mountainous landscapes and dense ancient cities brimming with pagoda-topped temples. This wonderful tour takes you to the evocative city of Kathmandu, then up into the hilltop settlement of Bandipur and finishes in Chitwan National Park.
Experience the beautiful interior of Sri Lanka, exploring the delights of Dambulla, Sigiriya Rock and the colonial cities of Kandy and Galle. Meet the elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage and take a safari through Yala National Park.
This tour is the perfect way to explore the highlights of China. Incorporating the three major cities of Shanghai, Xi’an & Beijing – it gives you the chance to visit the Great Wall of China, the Terracotta Army, the Forbidden City & the beautiful metropolis of Shanghai.
Journey across one of the world’s largest and most interesting countries. Cruise down the Yangtze River, experience Shanghai and Beijing, visit the Pandas in Chengdu and absorb the wonders of the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army.
Add-on a 4 night Bhutan extension fr. £799
4 night Magical Maldives extension fr. £439
3 night Panda’s of Chengdu extension fr. £419
2 night Hong Kong extension fr. £259
ESSENCE OF NORTH INDIA
INCLUDED IN ALL OF OUR TOURS:
10 days from
£1195
Travelling from Delhi to Agra, then Jaipur, this 10 day, 8 night tour of the Golden Triangle and the exotic Ranthambore National Park takes you through India’s most famous sights. Marvel at the Taj Mahal or spot a Bengal Tiger on safari.
Add-on a 4 night Kerala extension fr. £389
ROBERT HARDING
TOP 10 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES 22
Offer code: MMXD80
For more information or to book
call 0843 224 0674 or visit www.mercuryholidays.co.uk/mmxd80
Fully escorted tour with local English speaking guides throughout Accommodation in 3, 4 & 5H hotels and selected meals daily Scheduled return flights from London (other regional flights are available at a supplement) All internal transportation, including flights when applicable Entry fees to all sights
Our lines are open 7 days a week! Mon - Fri 09.00-21.00 Sat 09.00-20.00 Travel with confidence Sun 10.00-21.00
Prices will vary dependant on departure date and airport choice. From prices were available on 14/01/15 and are subject to change since going to print. Availability may be limited. A visa may need to be obtained before travel. All offers are subject to availability & can be withdrawn without notice. Terms & conditions apply. Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For more extension options and detailed itineraries please visit www.mercuryholidays.co.uk/tours