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In the heart of Eurasia, the Caucasus region offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and exotic destinations, perfect for the discerning traveller. Here's a curated selection of unique experiences and itineraries that will transport you through the history, nature, and culture of this captivating region.
## Unique Experiences
### Armenia
Embark on a spiritual journey to Etchmiadzin, the spiritual heart of Armenia and the oldest cathedral in the world. Witness the architectural marvel of Geghard Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, carved into the side of a mountain. Bask in the serene beauty of Lake Sevan, one of the world's largest high-altitude lakes.
### Azerbaijan
Marvel at the eternal flames of Yanar Dag, a natural phenomenon that has fascinated visitors for centuries. Explore ancient petroglyphs in Gobustan and witness the mesmerizing mud volcanoes. Learn about the history and architecture of the Bibi-Heybat Mosque, a significant religious site.
### Georgia
Discover the vibrant culture and historical sites of Tbilisi, Georgia's capital. Visit Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn city with stunning views. Immerse yourself in the world's oldest wine-making traditions in regions like Kakheti.
## Itinerary Suggestions
### 10-Day Caucasus Tour
Day 1-2: Yerevan, Armenia Explore Etchmiadzin and Geghard Monastery, the spiritual and architectural wonders of Armenia.
Day 3-4: Dilijan, Garni, Lake Sevan Experience the natural beauty of Lake Sevan and immerse yourself in local culture in Dilijan.
Day 5-7: Tbilisi, Georgia Discover Tbilisi's historic sites and vibrant culture, visit Uplistsikhe and Gori.
Day 8-10: Baku, Azerbaijan Tour the city, visit Yanar Dag, Gobustan, and the Ateshgah temple, a temple built on a natural gas vent some 400 years ago by fire worshippers.
### Cultural Immersion
Engage in local gatherings and traditions, such as shared meals or festivals, to deepen your cultural understanding. Savor traditional dishes like Armenian lavash, Georgian khinkali, and Azerbaijani plov.
These experiences blend history, nature, and culture, offering a comprehensive exploration of the Caucasus region. Margaret Loftus, a contributing editor for "Tours of a Lifetime" for the past nine years, has been instrumental in curating these unique travel itineraries.
Elsewhere in the world, other exciting travel opportunities await. Belmond has launched a luxury boat, Orcaella, to navigate the Chindwin River in Myanmar, reaching the remote Mahar Minkyaung monastery and the "Shwe Sagar" Buddha. Hidden Places Travel offers a kayaking trip through Kerala's backwaters, including stays at colonial villas and an organic farm in the Western Ghats.
For wildlife enthusiasts, Expeditions offers a trip to meet Biruté Galdikas at Camp Leakey, an orangutan research station in Borneo, as part of a 13-day expedition. Expeditions Israel offers a 12-day journey to the Holy Land, designed in partnership with Arabs and Jews, inspired by peace-building efforts.
Cultural immersion doesn't stop at the Caucasus. Armenia's Luys Quintet is featured in a travel itinerary by Exeter International. The Banaue rice terraces in the Philippines, built 2000 years ago, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and can be explored with Remote Lands. Peter Hillary leads an overland expedition from the Tibetan Plateau to the North Face Base Camp of Mount Everest and into Nepal, offered by Expeditions.
A Burma Cruise is also available, offering an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Myanmar. These travel opportunities promise to create memories that will last a lifetime.
- For those seeking adventure-travel, consider the 10-day Caucasus Tour, offering a blend of history, nature, and culture in Armenia and Georgia, as well as the eternal flames of Yanar Dag in Azerbaijan.
- The budget-conscious traveler can delve into the exotic destinations of the Caucasus region without compromising on experiences, as suggested by the curated selection of itineraries available.
- The Caucasus region isn't just about history and culture; nature enthusiasts can marvel at the serene beauty of Lake Sevan, the mesmerizing mud volcanoes of Gobustan, and the world's oldest wine-making traditions in Georgia.
- Travelers interested in cultural-travel can immerse themselves in local gatherings and traditions, such as shared meals or festivals, to deepen their cultural understanding and savor traditional dishes like Armenian lavash, Georgian khinkali, and Azerbaijani plov.
