Rediscover the beauty of an urban jungle. Savour in the coming together of communities and cultures with our experts’ favourite city experiences.
The joy of a city escape is how quickly you can immerse yourself in local life. An excellent local guide is always the key to making the most of your time and our experts share their favourite ways to get a unique perspective of these iconic cities.
Photographed millions of times, Venice ‘La Serenissima’ is a city that feels familiar even if you have never been; but nothing can prepare you for the overwhelming serenity of gliding through the winding canals on a classic riva boat, absorbing the crumbling grandeur of this floating city. As you navigate the notorious maze of canals and alleyways our guide will make sure you leave behind the frenzy of the street hawkers and tourists to explore the authentic side of Venice – the one with all the washing hanging out to dry on the line, with the children playing hide and seek, and with the old ladies having a chat from the windows of opposite buildings! That’s the real Venice. Away from the river of tourists, who are held back by the fear of getting lost.
A staple of any Southern Africa itinerary, Cape Town is arguably the most cosmopolitan city in Africa. Rise early for a sunrise hike up Lion’s Head to enjoy incredible panoramas of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles with freshly brewed coffee and home- baked treats. Back at sea level, wander through the beating heart of The Mother City with your guide, soaking up the urban buzz of the city’s history, culture and community. Head on to Bo-Kaap, home to brightly coloured 17th century houses and cobblestone streets, before visiting markets showcasing talented artists and crafters. End of the day mingling with locals at a cool city haunt, rooftop bar or beach cove.
No trip to Marrakech would be complete without spending time in the seemingly endless souks. What better way to practise your bartering skills than by stepping into the maze of the medina with your guide, and local chef, to purchase your ingredients for a Moroccan cooking class. Learn important local secrets from a ‘dada’ to get the traditional taste of tagine just right; then savour your meal on a roof terrace overlooking the bustling market below. Afterwards, adjust your helmet, don your chicest sunglasses and hop on your vintage sidecar as our guide steers you through the beautiful Medina, the mythical Palmeraie and the ancient French neighbourhood of Gueliz. Discover flea markets, secret gardens, traditional riads and historical villas.
Rub shoulders with royalty and discover the world of the British Monarchy. With your private guide, explore London and learn about all things royal, from official residences to coronations and weddings throughout history. Begin at the King’s official residence, and observe the age-old ritual of the Changing of the King’s Guard, made a permanent affair by Henry VII which has since spanned over 520 years of history. Continue with a stroll through St James’s Park and past its Tudor palace, the principal palace in London during the Georgian era and head for the Gothic masterpiece that is Westminster Abbey, home to over a thousand years of Royal History and a significant feature of British culture.
See the city down under come alive at night and marvel at the heritage buildings that stretch though the ‘Golden Mile’ with your local guide. Soak up the atmosphere at one of Melbourne’s hottest dining spots in Little Italy. Wander down St Kilda Road and witness the grandeur of Melbourne’s spectacular skyline, ascend Eureka Tower and get a bird’s eye view from the city’s highest building, you will be captivated by the bright city lights below, spanning 60 kilometres and brushing the horizon. Round off the evening with a cocktail at one of the city’s hidden bars or relax with signature Melbourne coffee and something sweet whilst being enchanted by the Australian city through the eyes of a local.
Weave among the hidden streets of Thailand’s capital while ticking off some of the world’s most renowned temples en route. From the iconic Grand Palace to the birthplace of the Thai massage, Wat Pho, your exclusive guide will lead you to observe the mesmerising architecture of Bangkok. Add in a canal tour along the Chao Phraya river and float through Thonburi’s floating market, spotting monitor lizards and soaking in the peaceful way of life among the locals. Conclude the day by learning the local craft of making alms bowls for Buddhist monks in Ban Bat, representative of Buddha’s Eightfold Path.
The birthplace of democracy and a cultural hub for classical literature and philosophy, Athens is widely considered the touchstone of Western civilization. With an archaeological scholar as your guide, explore the Ancient Agora and its complex network of ruins; learn of the social, political, and economic underpinnings of Greek accomplishments that date back over 2000 years. The agora is a gateway to ancient Greece as you trace the evolution of Athens and the trade and commerce roots that influenced the modern economy we now know.
Kyo Ryori is widely heralded as one of the most sophisticated home cuisines in the world and it is one of the many reasons to visit Kyoto. The traditional food ignites all five senses through delicious dishes with local, seasonal ingredients combined to create flavours that are undoubtedly Japanese. Our behind the scenes access to the best cooks will ensure you bring a taste of Japan home with you, as you are put to work in an authentic house and kitchen whilst learning traditional Kyo Ryori techniques. The aromas alone will have you transported back to the historic streets of the former capital city.
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