Marrakech: Feast for the senses in Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakech is an ancient caravan town, a gathering place where Arabs and Berbers mingle with Sahara nomads and mountain people.

By Anita Draycott

I felt like I had just stepped into a movie. Snake charmers, teeth yankers, fortune tellers, acrobats, water carriers—good guys, bad guys all putting on their nightly performance in Jemaa el Fna square, in the marvelous mayhem that is Marrakech.

Each evening as the sun starts to set the cast assembles, setting up stalls of street-food delicacies ranging from massive cauldrons of snails brewing in a mirky broth to lamb kabobs hissing on charcoal fires. Circling the square is a non-stop throng of rusty bicycles and mopeds, mangy donkeys pulling wagons, rattling petite taxis honking their horns. Marrakech is an ancient caravan town, a gathering place where Arabs and Berbers mingle with Sahara nomads and mountain people. Morocco is a feast for the senses and twilight at Jemaa el Fna assaults all of them.

Visit Aberdeen Area’s Best Castles in Aberdeen, United Kingdom

Explore magnificent castles located throughout Aberdeen.

• Delgatie Castle

The home of the late Captain Hay of Delgatie, the castle has displays of fine paintings, armoury and Victorian clothes combined with the atmosphere of a lived in home. The castle has largely been in the Hay family for the last 650 years. It was taken from the Earl of Buchan after the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, when Robert the Bruce routed the invading English army. Mary Queen of Scots stayed at Delgatie for three days after the Battle of Cirrichie in 1562. Her bedchamber is on view to visitors.

• Haddo House

Unusual for Aberdeenshire in that it is not a castle, Haddo House is proud to be the most homely of the north-east of Scotland’s great houses open to the public. Designed by William Adam for the 2nd Earl of Aberdeen in 1732, but refurbished in the 1880s, the House elegantly blends crisp Georgian architecture with sumptuous late Victorian interiors by Wright and Mansfield. Haddo also boasts a terrace garden with geometric rose beds and fountain, commemorative trees, a lavish herbaceous border and secluded glades and knolls. A magnificent avenue of lime trees leads to Haddo Country Park with its lakes, monuments, walks and wildlife.

• Huntly Castle

Magnificent castle ruins including 12th-century motte and palace block erected in the 16th and 17th centuries. The architectural details and heraldic enrichments are particularly impressive. Eleven steps lead to the raised area where the castle stands. The castle can be viewed from outside and there is an interpretation board giving information about the property. Known also as Strathbogie Castle, the glorious ruin stands on the bank of the River Deveron. It is in itself a history lesson in the development of the Scottish castle from the earliest Norman fortress to the palace of the 17th century. The remains of a 12th century motte and bailey, a medieval L-plan tower house, and defence earthworks of the Civil War are still visible. The most striking features are the splendid heraldic doorway and carved fireplaces.

• Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle offers an unforgettable experience. A dramatic and evocative ruined cliff top fortress in a truly stunning setting. The extensive buildings - from the keep through the barracks, lodgings, stables and storehouses to the less-ruinous chapel and drawing room - underline the importance of Dunnottar, an impregnable Castle that holds many rich secrets of Scotland’s colourful past. William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots, the Marquis of Montrose and the future King Charles II, all graced the Castle with their presence. Most famously though, it was at Dunnottar Castle that a small garrison held out against the might of Cromwell’s army for eight months and saved the Scottish Crown Jewels, the ‘Honours of Scotland’, from destruction. Crown, sceptre and sword now take pride of place in Edinburgh Castle.

• Fyvie Castle

Dating back to the 13th century, Fyvie Castle is located a mile north of the village of Fyvie in Aberdeenshire. This stunning castle was once a royal stronghold, one of a chain of fortresses throughout medieval Scotland. The oldest part of the castle still stands today, dating from the 13th century, which houses a great wheel staircase, the finest in Scotland. Contemporary panelling and plaster ceilings survive in the 17th-century Morning Room and the opulence of the Edwardian era is reflected in the interiors created by the first Lord Leith of Fyvie. A rich portrait collection is also found in the castle including works by Batoni, Raeburn and Hoppner; and there is a fine collection of arms and armour and 17th-century tapestries. The grounds and loch were designed as landscaped parkland in the early 19th century. The 18th-century walled garden has been redeveloped as a celebration of Scottish fruits and vegetables.

• Balmoral Castle

Set amongst the magnificent scenery of Royal Deeside, in the shadows of Lochnagar is the Balmoral Estate. Purchased by Queen Victoria in 1848, the Estate has been the Scottish home of the British Royal Family ever since. The Estate covers about 20,000 hectares (50,000 acres) of heather clad hills and ancient Caledonian woodland, with the beautiful River Dee nearby.
Over the past 150 years, careful stewardship by The Royal Family has preserved the wildlife, scenery and architecture which is available for all generations to enjoy. In her journals Queen Victoria even went so far as to describe Balmoral as "my dear paradise in the Highlands".
The Royal Family are still in residence at Balmoral for a portion of the year, with the grounds, gardens and exhibitions closed to the public during August, September and early October.

• Castle Fraser

About 16 miles west of Aberdeen is the stunning Castle Fraser, one of the grandest of the Scottish baronial tower houses. Built between 1575 and 1636 by the 6th laird, Michael Fraser, Castle Fraser is the most elaborate Z-plan castle in Scotland. The castle belongs to the same period of native architectural achievement as two neighbouring castles, Crathes and Craigievar. One of the castle’s most evocative rooms is the strikingly simple Great Hall. The castle contains many Fraser family portraits, including one by Raeburn, and fine 18th- and 19th-century carpets, curtains and bed hangings, and even Charles Mackenzie Fraser's wooden leg! The estate contains a flight pond, mixed woodland and open farmland, with two waymarked walks giving magnificent views of the local hills.

• Crathes Castle

Crathes Castle is surrounded by woodland to the east of Banchory in the Aberdeenshire countryside. This late 16th century castle, with connections to King Robert the Bruce, provides a memorable experience with its towers, turrets and stories of its resident ghosts. King Robert the Bruce granted the lands of Leys to the Burnett family in 1323: the ancient Horn of Leys, which can be seen today in the Great Hall, marks his gift. The castle, built in the second half of the 16th century, is a superb example of a tower house of the period. Some of the rooms still retain their original painted ceilings and collections of family portraits and furniture. A visit is enhanced by the 1.5 hectares of walled garden, which incorporates herbaceous borders and many unusual plants, providing a wonderful display at all times of the year. The great yew hedges, fascinating examples of the art of topiary, date from as early as 1702

• Corgarff Castle

Corgarff Castle, dating back from the 16th century, sits in the tranquil Aberdeenshire countryside.
Situated in stunning scenery with magnificent views, this tower house is thought to have been built in 1550 before being converted into a barracks for government troops in 1748. The castle’s last military use was to control the smuggling of illicit whisky between 1827 and 1831. Today the site is still complete with its 18th century star-shaped fortification.

So have you been to the desert in Chile?

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Northern Chile is as diverse as the south but home of so many hidden geological and archaeological treasures

Tatio Geyser 

Calama is the gateway to the wonders of Chile’s high central desert and with less than 5mm of rainfall a year; it’s known to be one of the driest deserts in the world.   This area is very rich in natural resources recognizing Chile as the world’s largest producer of copper and sodium nitrate. 

Our private transfer would take about 50 minutes viewing unforgettable landscape to our final destination San Pedro.  Being over 2400 M above sea level you’ll want to take it easy as you may experience mild altitude sickness.  The spectacular Licancabur volcano presents a magnificent setting against the eternal blue sky for San Petro.  The beautiful Kunza Hotel & Spa would be my home for the next three nights.  This property offers 60 spacious rooms with various configurations, full service spa, on site excursion tour guides and complete meeting facilities.  The temperature in March during the day would be 26- 28C but the evening would quickly cool off and you’d welcome a warm fire.  The clear dark night’s promises to deliver a privileged star gazing experience and an opportunity to view constellations only viewed in the Southern Hemisphere. 

My first tour was Valle de la Luna (Valley of the Moons) located about 19 km from San Pedro, in the Salt Mountains.  The impressive panoramic views with variations of coloured rocks and sand will no doubt resemble the surface of the moon.  Your tour will end with your return to the hotel about 8:00 pm but it’s an early night because the next morning will begin at 4:30 am

I would recommend for you to sit back and relax for the next 90 minutes while the bus begins climbing to an altitude of 4300m to the El Tatio Geysers best seen at dawn.  The roads twist and wind and at times you will wonder if the vehicle is actually driving on the side of the road.  What a beautiful site revealed when you arrive to see the valley of smoldering geysers.  This geothermal attraction also offers visitors a thermal pool and believe me people are not shy to remove their layers of clothes and jump in.  Once the sun rises, the valley comes alive and the scenery will delight any photographer.  If you are lucky when heading back, you may spot a herd of guanacos while admiring the magnificent views of the Andes Mountains.  The extraordinary natural scenery will provide an enjoyable return ride.

My last tour was to visit the Atacama Salt Flats, the largest in Chile.  Andean flamingos as well as other bird species can be found in this National reserve.   As far as the eye can see, you view white sharp coral like formations of crusty dried salt.  Although you feel this land is desolate and unproductive; think the opposite!  The natural resources in this area are very valuable.

How quickly my three days passed! My experience to the Atacama Desert was unlike any I have ever had and I will treasure the memories of each adventure.

This article was written by Esther Roemmele.

Contact our Leisure Travel Professional to help you plan your trip to South America.  

Scandinavian Natural Wonders: Best Places to Visit in Scandinavia

Scandinavian Natural Wonders: Best Places to Visit in Scandinavia

The magic and beauty of Scandinavia will take your breath away! Norway, Finland, Iceland and Sweden are all home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. Each country has its own unique way of delivering that ‘wow’ factor you’re looking for

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

Reykjanes Peninsula is known for its lava fields, rugged landscapes and hot springs. It’s also home of the famous Blue Lagoon, named one of National Geographic’s 25 wonders of the world in 2012. It’s a wonderfully warm, mineral rich geothermal pool of sea water sitting right in the middle of a huge 800- year-old lava field. We highly encourage you to take a soak in this very special place.

The Northern Lights in Finland

The Aurora Borealis, also known as The Northern Lights, is nature’s most incredible light show. The burst of colourful flickering lights in the night sky is viewable on about 200 nights a year, and it can be seen from a wide range of places from igloos to luxury suites or even boat cruises. It’s truly a dazzling sight to behold.

Sweden’s Stockholm Archipelago

A few minutes away from Stockholm, this cluster of 30,000 islands, islets and rocks blends with rocky cliffs, wooded islands and sandy beaches to create a truly beautiful and diverse landscape. Some islands are uninhabited, while others are home to active communities both new and ancient. Visitors enjoy sight-seeing, shopping, and fresh, local cuisine lovingly prepared in charming cafes.

The Majestic Fjord Region in Norway

Visit the fjord region of Western Norway to see narrow fjords cut into tall mountains. Waterfalls cascade magnificently down mountainsides and the glaciers stand firm, never melting. See the seals, eagles and whales who make their homes here and enjoy incredible food made from local produce.

Norway’s Waterfalls

Norway is home to many magnificent waterfalls, but the “Seven Sisters” are among the most photographed and admired in Geirangerfjorden. They are more visible during May through July when the snow melts and are best seen by taking a boat trip. The legend is that the “Seven Sisters” were all single and the waterfall on the other side of the fjord is “The Suitor” whose attempts to court the sisters failed.

No matter where you choose to travel, the scenery will not disappoint. Nobody puts on a show quite like mother nature!

Kristen Gilbert - As a Digital Content Copywriter at Collette, Kristen has travelled extensively. When she’s not busy writing about fabulous tours, she’s dreaming of being in a place where she can sip an umbrella drink with her toes in the sand and a good book in her hand.
Blog copy used with permission from Collette.

Planning a Trip to the Galapagos Islands

 The Galapagos Islands are one of the most ecologically extraordinary places on the planet. The ecosystem that inspired Darwin – now a protected part of our world heritage - continues to fascinate. Free and fearless animals, different from any others found anywhere else in the world, awe visitors who make the journey to this remote destination.

If you're thinking about a trip to the Galapagos, here are some tips for your planning:

What makes the Galapagos Islands so special?

The Galapagos Islands are both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a World Biosphere reserve, the second largest in the world. Isolated and remote with a rich ecosystem, the archipelago is a living museum of natural history.

The pivotal moment came in 1835, when Charles Darwin visited the islands. What he discovered among the wildlife, related to - but very different from - any creatures found elsewhere, inspired his theory of evolution and the origin of species. Darwin's theories shocked the scientific world of the 19th century and put the Galapagos Islands on the map and on the lips of generations of curious nature lovers.

The Galapagos Islands have been described as one of the most unique, scientifically important, and biologically outstanding areas on earth.

Where are the Galapagos Islands?

The Galapagos Islands are part of the South American country of Ecuador, but are hundreds of miles west of continental Ecuador in the Pacific Ocean. They form an archipelago of volcanic islands on both sides of the Equator. Thirteen large islands, six lesser ones, more than 40 islets and their surrounding waters form an Ecuadorian province, a national park, and a biological marine reserve.

How did they get their name?

The most symbolic creature of the islands is the extraordinary, giant Galapagos tortoise. Its magnificent shell reminded explorers of a British horse riding saddle, which in Spanish is called 'Galapagos'.

When should I go?

Because the Galapagos is so close to the equator, it's a sunny year round destination. The average year-round temperature is 24°C. (76°F) with a rainy season in the early months of the year.

North Americans are more familiar with a 'four season' life cycle of wildlife, but in the Galapagos Islands, there are natural wonders year round.

Here are some highlights of what you may experience at different times in the Galapagos Islands:

January

· Marine iguanas get a bright coloring to attract mates.

· Hatching of Giant tortoises' eggs.

February

· Greater flamingos start nesting.

· Penguins migrate to cooler waters.

March

· Frigate birds mating season starts.

· Perfect time for snorkeling.

April

· Rainy season comes to an end.

· Sea turtles, marine iguanas and land iguanas nesting.

May

· Waved albatross lay eggs.

· Blue-footed boobies begin their world-known courtship.

June

· Whale shark and humpback whale sightings possible

· Giant tortoises migrate to lowlands searching for good nesting-places.

July

· Start of sea lion breeding season.

· Lava lizards mating season.

August

· Frigatebird chicks are hatching.

· Sea lions give birth during this time.

September

· Galapagos penguins courtship

· A good month to see baby sea lions.

October

· Blue-footed booby chicks can be seen.

· Galapagos fur sea lions' mating season.

November

· Chance of seeing whale sharks

· Green sea turtle mating season starts.

· Great for swimming and snorkeling with baby sea lions.

December

· Start of the warmer season.

A trip to the Galapagos Islands to get up close to extraordinary wildlife in one of the world's remaining pristine environments is on many nature lovers' travel bucket lists. For many, it's not just a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but life changing.

Start your Trip!

Celebrate Music and Modern Architecture in Hamburg

The landmark, modernist Elbphilharmonie, designed by 'starchitects' Herzog & deMeuron, has opened its doors at last this month. The complex adds three world-class concert halls, a hotel, and a public area with a panoramic view to the city famously associated with the music of Mahler, Brahms and the Beatles.

Hamburg is Europe's second largest port.  It handles large, ocean-going ships, so it's considered a seaport, even though it's nearly 70 miles (110 km) inland from the North Sea on the Elbe River at its confluence with 2 other rivers.

The Elbphilharmonie is in a unique location in Hamburg’s historic port.  It's part of Europe’s largest inner-city urban revitalization project, in direct proximity to the Speicherstadt warehouse district UNESCO World Heritage site. 

In location, in design, and in function, the Elbphilharmonie serves as a symbol of the city’s past, present and its future.

Spectacular Architecture

The renowned Swiss architecture firm Herzog & deMeuron designed the exciting structure to perch on top of a brick warehouse that used to store tea, tobacco and cocoa arriving from abroad. 1700 reinforced concrete piles support the modernist, glass structure, whose wave-like roofline rises above the water of the port that surrounds it on three sides.

The Plaza is the area that links the warehouse and the new structure, and it's the central meeting place in the Elbphilharmonie. There's a viewing platform here that's open to the public. Even getting to it is an experience: an 82-metre-long (over 250 foot-long) curved escalator transports visitors through the building. Once you get there, you have a stunning panoramic view over the city and port of Hamburg.

The heart of the Elbphilharmonie is the spectacular, Grand Concert Hall. 2,100 seats are arranged around a centrally located stage, designed to remind you of visits to terraced vineyards. Amazingly, no member of the audience is seated more than 30 metres (about a hundred feet) from the conductor. Being so unusually close to the action turns this new acoustic space into a place of unforgettable musical encounters.

In order to achieve optimum acoustics, the architects developed a special wall and roof structure together with internationally renowned acoustician Yasuhisa Toyota. 10,000 individually shaped fibre panels cut with millimetre precision ensure targeted sound distribution that reaches you in every corner. For the Grand Hall, the German organ builder Klais developed an extraordinary concert hall organ with 4,765 pipes that are located in, next to and even behind the audience stands.

A Boundless Music Experience

In addition to the one-of-a-kind Grand Hall, the complex includes the acoustically outstanding, wood paneled Recital Hall and The 'Kaistudios', the Elbphilharmonie’s interactive music education area for people of all ages. The 'Kaistudios' are also home to the new 'Elbphilharmonie World of Instruments': diverse workshops in which children and adults can try out instruments from all over the world.

Are you thinking this all sounds fantastic, but you really aren't a fan of classical music? Don't fear: there's a line up of concerts and performances that not only include orchestral and operatic performances with the best orchestras in the world; piano, string quartet and German 'lieder'; but also world music, popular, and even electronic music.   Music for every fan, and a reflection of a city that not only supported famous composers, but also has had a world-celebrated club scene since the earliest days of the Fab Four.

They call it 'a perfect symbiosis of architecture and music'.  We agree.  The new Elbphilharmonie highlights Hamburg on the map of must-see global destinations for lovers of music and celebrated modern design.

Start your Trip!

Shades of Northern Ireland

Shades of Northern Ireland

1. Northern Ireland completes the story of Ireland. Not visiting 'The North' is a bit like deciding to skip the season finale of your favourite TV show. 

2. It is the most beautiful part of the Emerald Isle. 

3. By visiting Northern Ireland we are actively supporting 18 years of peace. Tourism is one of the most important drivers of Northern Ireland's economic growth, and steady tourism is necessary to provide continued economic, social and political stability. 

 4. It's home to the Giant's Causeway, The Glens of Antrim, Game of Thrones, the Walled City of Derry (my favourite city – forget Dublin!), Liam Neeson, Titanic, St. Patrick, the Ejector Seat and the Delorean, C.S. Lewis, HARP, Bushmills whiskey, Air Conditioning, Rory Mcllroy, and the penalty kick!  

5. Our passengers are 'living history' when they visit Northern Ireland. Thirty or forty years ago, you'd be considered quite a daredevil if you went to Northern Ireland. Consider Northern Ireland somewhat similar to the unveiling of the 'Iron Curtain' after the collapse of the Soviet Union. American tourists flocked to catch a glimpse of the 'forbidden' cities of Prague, East Berlin, Budapest and St Petersburg. For many, a visit to Northern Ireland has this same sense of 'peaking behind the curtain' of a once off-limits destination now open – and safe – to explore. 

6. BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY, Northern Ireland is proof that good triumphs over evil, tolerance over prejudice, and love over hate.

Diana Ditto, one of Collette's Product Managers, has been travelling all her life. You can find her seeking out the best of Ireland, Scotland, England and beyond. If you see her out on the road be sure to say hello and raise a glass of Guiness.  Blog copy used with permission from Collette.