North Pole has been an adventurer’s dream for a long time. With the renowned Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, the first high polar exploration cruise ship powered by liquefied natural gas specially conceived for the exploration of the polar regions, travellers are now able to access the once hard-to-reach destination in luxury and comfort.
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“…the spirit of exploration…” – Yvonne Ho
Last week, we got the chance speaking with Ms Yvonne Ho, an expeditionist, whom shared with us about her experience onboard the Le Commandant Charcot. Through her words, we understand how important we have to respect the nature, and have a spirit of exploration while we approach the geographic North Pole and the area surrounding it. Many times, guests will wonder where they will land next or visit next while on the cruise, and the team onboard do not always have an answer for it. As part of this experience, guests are invited to enjoy the moments as they venture outside of their comfort zone, into previously uncharted territory.
Join us as we explore the once hard-to-reach destination!
Embark on an opulent adventure through the stunning Atlas Mountains, a trekking experience like no other. As you venture through this rugged terrain, you will be mesmerized by the majestic peaks, panoramic views and enchanting scenery that surrounds you. Imagine hiking through verdant valleys, glistening rivers, and towering mountains, feeling the cool breeze on your face as you traverse the tranquil terrain.
With every step, you will discover new beauty that will leave you awestruck. The Atlas Mountains offer an exquisite blend of breathtaking natural beauty and traditional Berber culture, giving you an experience that is both luxurious and culturally rich. You can indulge in the delightful cuisine of Morocco, soak in the warmth of the Berber hospitality, and bask in the glory of the picturesque landscape.
Trekking through the Atlas Mountains is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime, one that will awaken your senses and leave you feeling invigorated. With its stunning vistas, indulgent hospitality, and a serene atmosphere, it is the perfect retreat for those seeking luxury and adventure.
Nestled in the foothills of Morocco’s Rif Mountains, the stunning city of Chefchaouen beckons with its unmistakable charm and enchanting blue hues. Known as “The Blue City,” Chefchaouen is a sight to behold, with every corner and alleyway adorned in a brilliant shade of blue, offering an unparalleled visual feast for the senses.
As you wander through the winding streets of this picturesque city, you’ll discover an array of delightful shops, bustling markets, and artisan workshops, all bursting with vibrant colors and intricate designs. The aroma of spices and freshly baked bread fills the air, inviting you to indulge in the local cuisine, which is as delicious as it is diverse.
Take a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. Whether you’re admiring the stunning architecture, exploring the ancient kasbah, or simply enjoying a cup of mint tea in a cozy café, Chefchaouen promises an unforgettable experience that is both luxurious and authentic. With its undeniable charm and rich cultural heritage, this enchanting blue city is a true gem of Morocco that will leave you spellbound.
The landscapes of ancient Lycia is a breathtaking experience that takes you on a journey through the rugged mountains and stunning coastline of southwestern Turkey. Lycia was an ancient region that existed from the 15th century BCE until the 7th century CE, and it is rich in history and culture.
The hiking trails wind through traditional villages, ancient ruins, and beautiful natural landscapes, providing a unique insight into the history and culture of the region. The Lycian Way, one of the most popular trails, is a 540-kilometre route that stretches from Fethiye to Antalya and takes hikers through picturesque forests, rugged terrain, and pristine beaches.
Along the way, hikers will encounter historic sites such as the ancient city of Olympos, the Lycian rock tombs of Myra, and the ruins of Patara, a city that was once a major trading hub. The landscapes of ancient Lycia are truly stunning, with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, dramatic mountains, and lush forests.
Overall, hiking the landscapes of ancient Lycia is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into Turkey’s rich history and natural beauty.
A Moroccan Sufi dinner is a feast for the senses that will transport you to another world. The air is filled with the rich aromas of cumin, cinnamon, and coriander, as tantalizing dishes are served on intricately patterned plates. The warm, flickering light of candles and lanterns casts a soft glow over the room, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and relaxation.
As you settle in, you’ll be offered a refreshing glass of mint tea, sweetened with local honey, and served in traditional brass cups. The table will be laden with colorful tagines, filled with tender meats, and an array of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. You’ll savor every bite of the succulent lamb, seasoned with a blend of exotic spices, and the tender chicken, stewed with preserved lemons and olives.
As you eat, you’ll be serenaded by the lilting melodies of traditional sufi music, played on a lute-like instrument called an oud. The music will transport you to another realm, and you’ll be swept away by the hauntingly beautiful sound.
As the meal draws to a close, you’ll be treated to a sweet dessert of honeyed pastries, perfumed with orange blossom water, and dusted with powdered sugar. This Moroccan sufi dinner is a luxurious experience that will leave you feeling nourished, relaxed, and inspired.
Cappadocia, located in central Turkey, is renowned for its stunning and unique fairy chimney landscapes. These rock formations were created by the eruption of volcanoes millions of years ago, followed by centuries of erosion by wind and water.
The fairy chimneys are made up of soft tuff rock, which has been sculpted by the elements into a series of bizarre shapes, including cones, pillars, and pyramids. Some of these formations have been hollowed out and turned into homes, churches, and even hotels, creating a fascinating underground city.
Visitors to Cappadocia can explore the fairy chimney landscapes by foot, bike, or hot air balloon. Balloon rides are particularly popular, offering a bird’s-eye view of the extraordinary formations and the surrounding valleys and mountains.
The region’s unusual landscape and rich history have also made it a popular destination for hikers and cultural enthusiasts. Cappadocia’s underground cities, ancient rock churches, and museums provide a fascinating insight into the area’s past, while its unique scenery makes it one of the most captivating destinations in the world.
In September 2019, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia opened its doors to foreign visitors from all over the world. For the first time ever, discerning travellers can finally explore the rich heritage, culture, diverse and breath-taking landscapes before mass tourism arrives and our Travel Specialists are excited to share this Arabian jewel with you.
Riyadh, one of the wealthiest cities in the world, may not come across as charming, but the capital is home to the country’s best museum, bustling traditional souqs and the UNESCO listed mud brick walls of Ad Diriyah, the birthplace of the first Saudi state. The other city to visit got to be Jeddah, the gateway for pilgrims to Mecca and Medina. Located by the Red Sea, Jeddah is a diverse and rich melting pot of cultures and the city is thriving from the burgeoning arts and culture scene to the foodie culture and countless architecture influence.
Read the full article here: Saudi Arabia – Welcomes The World
Travel is a great social media talking point. For years now, travel on social media has been an inspiration to many – from pre-departure postings to hotel room tours to the various must-do destination activities like diving with sea turtles, elephant trekking and stargazing.
Today, more than ever, hotels are more than a place to rest, gather and relax; it has transformed into an inspirational pod, a dream venue and a social media shareable location.
“Hotels today are moving away from the traditional ‘brick and mortar’ to architectural glamor allowing them to blend seamlessly with their local and surrounding environment, with many focusing on sustainability and offering guests a unique stay experience.” – Jess Yap, Intriq Journey, shared with Lianhe Zaobao (è”åˆæ—©æŠ¥).
Read the article here: Lianhe Zaobao – Intriq Journey
The Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most pristine and untouched wilderness areas on Earth, home to an abundance of wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty. The peninsula is situated at the northernmost tip of the continent and juts out into the surrounding ocean, providing a vital habitat for a vast array of species.
The waters surrounding the peninsula are teeming with life, from krill and plankton to seals, whales, and penguins. The peninsula is home to numerous penguin colonies, with thousands of birds gathering to breed and raise their young. The area is also a popular feeding ground for humpback and minke whales, which can often be seen breaching and playing in the water.
The rugged landscape of the peninsula is dominated by snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and ice fields, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. The region is a mecca for adventurous travelers, with opportunities to hike, kayak, and camp amidst the stunning scenery.
Despite its remote location and extreme conditions, the Antarctic Peninsula is a fragile ecosystem that is under threat from climate change and human activity. It is therefore essential that we work together to protect this unique and precious wilderness for generations to come.
Niigata is Japan’s hidden gem, offering postcard-perfect views of sprawling rice fields, hidden shrines nestled amongst lush greenery, and rugged mountain ranges. There’s something for every wanderer in this hidden nook of the country; whether you wish to explore the historic temples or look for cherry blossoms, take your time immersing yourself in picturesque nature spots, or sample delicious regional delicacies – Niigata has something magical to offer its visitors.
Even though it might not be as popular as some other Japanese cities, Niigata’s hidden gems are worth discovering; offering a glimpse into a calming and dreamy slice of Japanese history and culture.
Niigata City is located on the west coast of Japan, stretching along a narrow strip of land at the Sea of Japan. Surrounded by the abundance of nature including the coastal mountains and crystal clear waters, the city provides stunning views to those who visit.
Home to one of Japan’s significant rice production areas due to its climate, Niigata City is also known for its rice cake and unique festivals. With a population of over 800,000 inhabitants as well as frequent Bullet Trains making daily trips between Tokyo and Niigata City, it has become an important part of modern-day Japanese culture.
Are you planning a trip to Japan, but overwhelmed by the sheer number of exciting destinations? If Tokyo has been your go-to destination for years, it might be time to consider a different cultural experience and explore Niigata instead. With rolling hills carpets in lush green tea plantations, some of the best seafood in Japan and plenty of hot springs, Niigata is one destination that should definitely not be overlooked!
Let’s take a look at why Niigata is worth considering as your next Japanese getaway.
Niigata City in Japan is one of the best places to visit year-round. During the winter months, snow blankets the Japanese Alps and creates a stunningly beautiful landscape for visitors to explore. In spring, locals and tourists alike gather to experience sakura blooming against a backdrop of majestic mountaintops.
Niigata also offers gorgeous sunsets over terraced rice paddies, and the season of fall offers its own distinct flavor with trees turning from lush green to scarlet leaves. Throughout the year there are various activities to enjoy like skiing, rafting, festivals, soothing hot springs, and sightseeing jaunts across the city. Niigata’s natural beauty in every season makes it a worthwhile destination no matter when you choose to visit!
Niigata is the perfect setting for a natural hot springs experience. Just about every corner of this area has natural hot springs to offer. From stunning rural areas with unique Japanese inns, to spa resorts in larger cities, there is no shortage of variety. There is something for everybody here, from elaborate ryokan to places that are more laid back and intimate.
The natural hot springs in Niigata are renowned for their healing properties – Sulphur, alkaline and carbonated springs can be found across the area, offering restorative benefits and natural cures that you won’t find elsewhere. Perfect for all ages and medical conditions, these natural hot springs present an amazing opportunity to get away from it all and relax in the warm waters amidst beautiful natural settings.
Sado Island in Niigata is a small and serene destination with a lot of character. This picturesque location is known for its tub boat rides which was famously featured in the animation “Spirited Away”.
The tub boats are just one way to explore the deep blue waters around Sado Island. You can also take a stroll around its beaches for a truly captivating experience. The landscape of Sado Island is almost magical, boasting numerous ancient shrines, mountain peaks and gold mines from centuries past still accessible to this day.
Niigata is a true foodie paradise, offering an abundance of cuisine from its culinary roots. Known for its rich Niigata cuisine, the region offers delectable specialty items such as Hegi soba noodles and super fresh seafood from the renowned Teradomari Fish Market. For rice enthusiasts, Niigata rice cakes are particularly delicious and sought-after around Japan.
To experience Niigata through its flavours, visitors can embark on a Japan luxury tour catering to the most passionate of food connoisseurs by exploring local eateries and taking part in local cuisine classes. Here, visitors will discover Niigata’s hidden yet flavorful offerings that offer an unforgettable taste adventure.
The local restaurants take advantage of the abundance of locally-harvested vegetables and seafood. Visiting Niigata not only provides a delicious and memorable experience but also an insight into the diverse Japanese culture and customs. With a wide selection of fresh catches and regional specialties, Niigata promises something that will satisfy every palate.
Top Producer of Rice in Japan
Niigata is well known as the rice-producing region of Japan, thanks to its plentiful rice fields that span much of its landscape. The rice fields also offer stunning sights — particularly the Hoshitoge rice terrace, which looks like a patchwork of irregularly shaped fields surrounded by lush green hillsides.
A visit here can easily turn into an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. That said, Niigata’s rice isn’t just eye candy — it’s also of excellent quality, sure to make any rice dish something special.
Those who visit the scenic Kiyotsu Gorge in Niigata will find themselves quickly enchanted by its immense natural beauty. Nestled away among lush greenery and rolling hills, a stroll along its winding pathways is sure to evoke feelings of calm, ease, and tranquillity.
The rushing waters of the river can be heard as they make their way through this picture-perfect landscape, painting an even more dreamy image of this unique corner of Japan. Visitors won’t want to miss out on taking in the stunning beauty and serenity of Kiyotsu Gorge – a truly remarkable sight that inspires visitors like few other places can.
Niigata is one of the most accessible regions to explore in Japan, especially if you join a tour. The capital city to Tokyo is only a few hours away, making it possible to take a day trip from Tokyo station.
It is a popular destination to explore during a day trip to get out of the hustle and bustle of city life. There are also many places to discover near Niigata including Shiga Prefecture and Gifu Prefecture. Travelers can plan to make multiple day trips from Niigata to visit nearby cities like Aizu-Wakamatsu for even more adventure!
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Call us at +852 2885 2181 or email us at enquiry@intriqjourney.com to speak with us.
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