The legendary Silk Road encompasses several routes ranging across countries from China in the East through Central Asia to Turkey and beyond into the Mediterranean. From fine silks to porcelain, precious stones, tea, aromatic spices and more, these routes were not only conduits for desirable goods, they also spread emerging technology and inventions. This history, the people and the cuisine along these routes makes for an incredible journey.
The Flaming Mountains, China
Stretching over 100km long and 10km wide, the mountains are so named because, under the relentless heat of the midday sun, they radiate a fierce heat and appear to be on fire.
The Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an, China
Six thousand intricately carved, life size clay statues of terracotta warriors and their horses stand in battle formation, and have been protecting the mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor in Chinese history, for over 2,200 years.
Bukhara, Uzbekistan
This living medieval city is packed full of ancient architecture and bustles with life and atmosphere.
Dunhuang, China
Once an oasis town and stop-off for weary travellers, Dunhuang’s magnificent Mogao cave temples are a fascinating remnant of days bone by.
Kashgar, China
The amazing Sunday Market here is not to be missed – chaotic, exotic, and never a dull moment, it draws people from near and far.
Samarkand, Uzbekistan
This grand city features exquisite Islamic architecture on a majestic scale, along side Soviet-style avenues and green spaces.
Urumqi, China
The most remote city from any sea in the world, Urumqi is home to some excellent museums and a huge and fascinating bazaar.
Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan
In the middle of the Karakum Desert, the Darvaza gas crater was inadvertently created more than 40 years ago when the ground under a drilling rig gave way. Scientists are said to have set it on fire to burn off noxious gases, and it still burns today. A surreal spectacle.
As we are talking about a vast range of countries and climates, there is no one great time to go. Generally speaking we’d say April through to October, but we’re happy to advise on any specific itinerary you choose.
“Chaotic, colourful, noisy, eclectic, welcoming and unusual – the superlatives could go on forever, but I’d rather show you around Lebanon, and particularly Beirut, myself. Where else can you lean against a wall dotted with bullet holes left over from 15 years of civil war while you queue for lemon sorbet made by the same family for decades? Or hunt for treasure in the antique stores of Basta, try the best ever falafel at M. Sahyoun, wander the delightful Nicolas Ibrahim Sursock Museum of modern and contemporary art or see outstanding examples of iconic street art by well-known Lebanese artists in trendy neighbourhoods bursting with cool restaurants and cafes.
A little further afield (and it is only a little, most places can be reached within three hours drive from Beirut), there are the colossal structures of Baalbek, built over a period of more than two centuries, and a model of Imperial Roman architecture. Dedicated essentially to Jupiter, Venus and Mercury, my personal favourite is the Temple of Bacchus, not least because he was the god of wine, but the temple itself is beautifully decorated and extremely well preserved. Add to this the Phoenician cities of Tyre, Byblos and Sidon, even the most fanatic history fans have no option but to be content.
That sorbet though, it’s definitely worth queuing for!” – Kate Couling, Director, World Journeys
Asia 17 Days / 16 Nights 27 March 2022
A Luxury Rail Journey
Departing from Moscow, experience a luxurious and fascinating rail journey aboard the luxurious Golden Eagle private train through the 'Five Stans', the Southern Republics...
Asia 15 Days / 14 Nights
Azerbaijan, Armenia & Georgia are exotic, ,exciting, dynamic and ultimately hugely rewarding - wander ancient streets, temples, mausoleums and monasteries, sample traditional food and...
Europe 8 Days / 7 Nights
Gulet Cruise
Charter a gulet for an incredible week (or two) exploring the Turkish Coast. Choose some highlights in advance or let your captain choose the...
Middle East 10 Days / 9 Nights
A rich legacy recorded over three millennia makes Iran one of the most fascinating and diverse destinations in the world today. Persepolis and Isfahan...
Asia 8 Days / 7 Nights
Central Asia has always been a cultural and intellectual crossroad. Discover 2500 years of history as you travel through Uzbekistan - minarets soar towards...
Asia 7 Days / 6 Nights
There is plenty to explore and absorb on this journey through Azerbaijan, the largest country in the southern Caucasian region, located at the crossroads...
Asia 16 Days / 15 Nights
A Luxury Rail Journey
Explore the shores of the Caspian Sea, visiting Armenia, Georgia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. With their location at the crossroads of trade, religion, language...
Europe 15 Days / 14 Nights
A luxury train journey
Undoubtedly one of the world's greatest train journeys, the Trans-Siberian Railway runs like a steel ribbon across mysterious Russia connecting east and west from...
Europe 7 Days / 6 Nights
Archeologists have found evidence of wine making on 8,000-year-old pottery shards, making Georgia the world's oldest wine producer. Georgia's white wines stay in contact...
Asia 7 Days / 6 Nights
Rich in culture and history, Turkmenistan is a hidden gem in Central Asia. Visit Ashgabat and the ancient city of Mary, explore the mausoleums...
Europe 8 Days / 7 Nights
There is so much to explore and experience in this mountainous country, from awe-inspiring vistas, alpine forests and an extensive wine region, to the...
Asia 9 Days/ 8 Nights
Experience the truly nomadic life of Mongolia's wild west by exploring remote national parks, connecting with the communities, learning about their lifestyle, preparing local...
Central Asia 14 Days / 13 Nights
Celebrate the famous Naadam Games in the far west of Mongolia when the entire country is on its hooves for two full days in...
Europe 10 Days / 9 Nights
An eclectic journey through time and place will take you from ancient Byzantium and the lives of the Ottoman sultans to the troglodyte lifestyles...
Europe 9 Days / 8 Nights
Small group tour
Journey from Istanbul to Cappadocia, exploring the sights and tastes of Turkey. From bustling cities with intricate palaces and grand bazaars, to the rich...
With a reputation as being one of the most beautiful tourist spots in Asia, Bali has become a top…
SEE PACKAGES
The small charming town of Siem Reap is the base for exploring the Angkor Temple complexes and has grown…
SEE PACKAGES
China is one of the world’s oldest continuous civilizations and the history and scenery is fascinating! The capital Beijing…
SEE PACKAGES
Georgia is home to Black Sea beaches, mountain villages, and lush green valleys sprawling with vineyards. There is so much to…
SEE PACKAGES
Japan is a land of striking scenic beauty complete with majestic scenery, historic buildings and ancient gardens. Myriad flavours from…
SEE PACKAGES
Serene Luang Prabang, elegant Vientiane and the surrounds of Pakse, bursting with culture, tea and coffee plantations, glorious waterfalls…
SEE PACKAGES
Known as the “Land of Blue Skies”, Mongolia is a landlocked country situated between Russia and China which has…
SEE PACKAGES
Rudyard Kipling’s often quoted line “This is Burma and it is unlike any land you know about”, is as…
SEE PACKAGES
Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, since independence it has become one of the world’s most prosperous…
SEE PACKAGES
Known as ‘The Land of Smiles’, welcoming Thailand has long been a popular destination for travellers. As a diverse…
SEE PACKAGES
One of the most remote, pristine and high altitude regions in the world. Tibets impressive scenery, complicated history and…
SEE PACKAGES
Central Asia has always been a cultural and intellectual crossroads. Discover 2500 years of history as you travel through…
SEE PACKAGES
Fresh exotic cuisine, the warmth and openness of the Vietnamese people, French colonial history, limestone islands, and beautiful beaches…
SEE PACKAGES