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Arcadia Expeditions

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25.01.2022 The breathtaking lunar landscapes, magical fairy chimneys and incredible underground cities of Cappadocia have made it a firm favourite amongst travellers for centuries. Out of the extraordinarily beautiful valleys of soft volcanic tufa, humans have made their mark since ancient times, carving out a myriad of dwellings, chapels, monasteries and cellars. During our expedition to Turkey, we explore the very best of Cappadocia’s enthralling sights from discovering remarkable open-air museums, home to some of the finest examples of Byzantine wall art anywhere in the world, to scrambling through the tunnels of Uchisar Castle (pictured here), a rocky volcanic outcrop used by villagers to flee from invading armies.

25.01.2022 The City Palace complex in Jaipur is the 18th Century grand court of the Maharajah and continues to be the home of the royal family. The Palace, like most of the cities monuments, is painted pink and was done so to honour a visit by King Edward VII. On our ‘India: Kipling & the Raj’ expedition, we will enjoy a private tour of this mesmerising architectural marvel and a specially curated high tea in the palace’s exquisite Blue Room.

22.01.2022 Every Arcadia expedition provides you insider access to fascinating and thought-provoking local experiences, curated exclusively by us for our travellers. On our Vietnam expedition, we head to the home of a former Viet Cong soldier in the Mekong Delta and meet an American veteran in a local caf to hear about their wartime experiences. One evening we are joined for dinner by a member of the French Embassy in Vietnam to hear their perspective on the impact of colonialism. In... Hue we meet with a local Historian who took part in the Tet Offensive and in Hanoi, we explore Hoa Lo Prison (pictured here and famously nicknamed the Hanoi Hilton by U.S. POWs) alongside Mr Tam, a former officer involved with the interrogation of POWs at Hoa Lo during the war. Mr Tam shares with us his stories and insight into the lives of servicemen such as John McCain, who lived within its walls. See more

22.01.2022 Originally a pleasure palace of the Mewar royal dynasty built in 1746, the iconic Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur has been spectacularly restored to its former glory. Made of white marble and set on its own island in the middle of Lake Pichola, this famed hotel oozes glamour, decadence and old world charm. Travellers on our Kipling & The Raj expedition spend two nights here, a perfect base to explore Udaipurs serene lakes, beautiful gardens and magnificent palaces.

22.01.2022 Arcadia Co-Founder David Mannix is currently travelling around Morocco on a research trip, putting the finishing touches to our Moroccan Art of Living expedition. An in-depth look at Moroccan architecture, design, art and gastronomy, this one-of-a-kind journey takes in the glorious highlights of the country, with stays in some of the most opulent and character-filled hotels in North Africa. During Davids travels, he has met with local artisans, architects, interior design...ers, chefs and artists to create a wealth of exclusive experiences that are only available to Arcadia travellers. From private, behind-the-scenes visits to architectural masterpieces, art galleries and museums, to street food tasting trails in ancient medinas led by expert chefs and lavish degustation menus in centuries old riads, we give you uncommon access to the very best of Moroccos rich cultural heritage. See more

21.01.2022 The remote Vietnamese town of Dien Bien Phu, just kilometres away from the Laotian border, is home to one of the most significant historic sites of the 20th Century. It was here in 1954 that the Viet Minh defeated the French, marking the first time in modern history that a guerrilla army in a major battle defeated a colonial military force. Signalling the end of almost 100 years of French colonial influence in Indochina, events here led directly to later U.S. involvement in the region.

21.01.2022 Everyone has heard of the Silk Road, but have you heard of the Frankincense Trail? Frankincense is an aromatic resin sourced from trees that grow in very few places worldwide. The highest quality comes from Oman, where a vast network of trade routes once flourished, fuelled by demand for incense by the empires of antiquity, including Egypt and Rome. It was one of the most valuable commodities traded in the ancient world and entire civilisations were made wealthy from its pro...duction and transport. At its peak between the 3rd Century BCE and the 2nd Century CE, up to 1,000 camels per caravan plied this route, which for most of its length was controlled by the Nabateans. The spectacular Nabatean strongholds of Petra (in present-day Jordan), and Madain Saleh (Saudi Arabia), were distribution centres for frankincense and other goods. Arcadias expedition to Jordan and Saudi Arabia, the first of its kind, combines the fascinating history and archaeological sites of both countries. Tracing the Frankincense Trail, we explore the highlights of Jordan and then venture overland into the rarely visited remoteness of northern Saudi Arabia, in search of ancient ruins and rock art.

21.01.2022 The Ancient Greeks believed that the East was the realm of monsters and demons, that would emerge from the Fires of Hell to devour any who dare enter their lands. To many, these were just fantasy and legend created by the old geographers. However today, if you travel through the deep deserts of Turkmenistan you will witness that those ancient fires still burn. Join us on our Expedition to Central Asia The Conquest of the Silk Road - coming soon.

18.01.2022 This week, one of our Expedition Designers was in Paris and stopped by the Institut du Monde Arabe (Arab World Institute) to see an exhibition on the history and archaeology of Al Ula, a valley and oasis in north-western Saudi Arabia that has been inhabited for over 7,000 years. At the crossroads of ancient caravan routes, Al Ula was home to successive great civilisations, including the Dadan and Kihyan Kingdoms and the Nabateans, who extended their borders southwards from P...etra in modern day Jordan in the 1st Century BCE. Now a designated UNESECO World Heritage Site, Arcadia Expeditions will be including the spectacular archaeological sites at Al Ula in their world-first expedition taking in the ancient civilisations of Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Whilst we continue researching this itinerary, we thoroughly recommend visiting this outstanding and inspiring exhibition if you are travelling through Paris. Be quick though, the exhibition closes on 19th January 2020.

17.01.2022 Arcadia has created a new style of expedition travel based on immersive storytelling. Each of our meticulously researched expeditions is created around a theme, telling a story that has never been told in this type of travel format before. Whilst our expeditions include the well-known sites of a destination, and plenty of hidden gems, the story is woven throughout the journey, so that we explore a countrys history, culture and people from a different perspective. Check out our stories below and discover a new way of seeing the world.

17.01.2022 We believe this to be one of the last photographs taken of Nxau Toma, the San Bushman who played the lead role in the film The Gods Must Be Crazy. Arcadias David Adams met him in far eastern Namibia in early 2003, two months before N!xaus death. It was Davids first of many expeditions to this extraordinary place. We are in the final planning stages of an immersive 4x4 expedition led by David through the remote tribal conservancies of Namibia. Limited to just 12 travellers, we will encounter both the people and the critically endangered wildlife of this ancient land.

17.01.2022 Faces from the Omo River in Ethiopia. The tribal diversity of this remote region is unparalleled and represents one of Africas last unchanged cultural groups. Shielded from outsiders by geography and Ethiopias status as one of only two African nations never to have been colonised, the customs and traditions of these nomadic tribes have remained intact for generations. Our Ethiopia & Kenya: The Cradle of Humanity expedition investigates the origins of humankind and begins by exploring the rarely-visited west bank of the Omo River basin. We visit various tribal groups, stay in their villages and experience their fascinating cultures and ceremonies in the company of the legendary Charlie McConnell, one of the most experienced Expedition Leaders in East Africa.

16.01.2022 This fascinating article from the BBC tells the story of Felice Benuzzi, an Italian held in a Kenyan POW camp during WWII. Felice escaped the camp to successfully climb Mt Kenya and his tale is an epic example of how boredom can be a powerful motivator. With much of the world still in lockdown, this story serves as a great reminder for those stuck at home to keep dreaming big. http://www.bbc.com//20200408-how-boredom-can-inspire-adven

16.01.2022 The ancient war game known as Buzkashi is played with the body of a calf or goat, with up to two hundred horseman trying to wrestle the carcass from each other and then race away to drop it into a small circle. The game was the traditional practice for battle in the heartland of the Silk Road conquerors in Central Asia. Tamerlane, who forged an empire that would stretch all the way from China to Turkey in the 14th Century, drew much of his mounted army from the mountains arou...nd Shakhrisabz and today these games are as close as you will ever get to witnessing the unrivalled horsemanship of his vast hordes. On our Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan Conquest of the Silk Road expedition, we have arranged for our guests to attend a specially curated local match of this ancient sport in Shakhrisabz. After viewing this exhilarating game, we join the champions for a traditional picnic lunch.

14.01.2022 Experiencing remote wilderness in a luxury tented camp is what makes our expedition to Kenya so rewarding. Set up exclusively for Arcadia in an idyllic spot by Lake Paradise, and later at a picturesque bend in the Uaso Nyiro River, we have created the ultimate private safari experiences away from the crowds. Game viewing during the day and cocktails by the campfire at night, this is Africa in style.

13.01.2022 We are close to completing our planning for next years expedition exploring Alexander the Greats invasion and conquest of Persia (modern day Iran). This is a photo Arcadias David Adams took of the ruins of Persepolis, the Persian capital that Alexander destroyed. Todays ruins make up one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites on the planet. Just like Alexander, we will be setting up a luxury tented camp in the valley of Persepolis for two nights from which to explore this incredible place. Stay tuned for more details of this unique journey into the rich history and culture of Iran.

13.01.2022 Announcing the launch of our new website, featuring 7 groundbreaking new expeditions led by our team of expert storytellers. Our immersive historical and cultural small group journeys go to some of the worlds most exotic destinations. We invite you to explore the site, which we hope will inspire you to start planning your first post-pandemic adventure. https://www.arcadiaexpeditions.com

11.01.2022 We are pleased to announce that one of the worlds leading authorities on Vietnamese modern history will lead our expedition to Vietnam in December 2020. Professor Pierre Asselin lectures at San Diego State University and has spent over 20 years visiting and researching Vietnam. Pierre has been granted rare access to archives by the Vietnamese government and has written three award-winning books on a country that has left an indelible mark on the history of the 20th century.... Immersing travellers into the history and culture of this fascinating country, our expedition engages Vietnams past through exclusive private meetings with key witnesses, as well as serious explorations of iconic sites such as Dien Bien Phu, the DMZ and the infamous Cu Chi tunnels. With Pierres expertise at the forefront, we aim to confront the conventional narrative of what is a highly contentious history. Our in-depth exploration of the realities of events on the ground will uncover the captivating complexities of Vietnams past and help us understand the vibrant and beguiling country we see today.

11.01.2022 Sudan’s Red Sea coast is one of the richest marine environments on the planet, yet one of the most rarely-visited. Aboard an exclusively chartered Italian-owned schooner, we conclude our ‘Three Niles’ expedition to Sudan with 6 days cruising the World Heritage Mukkawar Island Marine National Park. We spend our days relaxing on remote Red Sea beaches, snorkelling and diving pristine coral reefs and exploring uninhabited islands. We have just added a new departure for our Sudanese expedition in February 2022, giving us the best chance to have the awe-inspiring experience of swimming with Whale Sharks during their annual migration. Or, for the ultimate in privacy and seclusion, put a group of family and friends together and set your own departure date.

10.01.2022 The Marrakech medina is an ancient walled city dating back to the 11th Century. Its labyrinth of alleys and souks are home to masterpieces of art and architecture, including vast ramparts, monumental gates and ornamental gardens. Some of the medinas most fascinating sites are hidden behind nondescript doors that can lead to the most opulent of riads, former palaces and museums. The door in this picture leads to a vast den of antiques and divine Moroccan homewares known locally as Aladdins Cave. Our Moroccan Art of Living expedition gives our travellers access to hidden gems like this as we take an in-depth look at the unique architecture, design, art and food of this mesmerising country.

10.01.2022 Great list from one of our favourite magazines, Conde Nast Traveller, outlining their 20 best place to go in 2020. Superb to see a few lesser know destinations featured, some of which are included in Arcadias expeditions - the salt plains of Botswana, Armenia and the charming Moroccan port town of Tangier. Which of their Top 20 is on your bucket list?

10.01.2022 One of the worlds best-known poets, Jalal al-Din Rumi was a Sufi mystic, philosopher and Islamic theologian whose humanist message of universal love, devotion and tolerance have left a spiritual legacy that has transcended faith, language and geography. His teachings have inspired millions of readers and became the base for the Mevlevi Order, whose disciples are known today as the Whirling Dervishes. Arcadias expedition to Turkey takes in the stunning highlights of the coun...try with an in-depth exploration of the life of Rumi. Led by an expert on Sufism and comparative religion, we journey into the mysterious realm of mysticism and examine the exceptional spiritual path taken by Rumi, a path that caused tension within his own community and the wider Islamic religion. Exclusive meetings with Turkish Sufi scholars, visits to ancient Dervish lodges and witnessing mesmerising Whirling Dervish ceremonies helps us peel back the layers of this master storyteller and the traditions he represents, allowing us to gain a unique insight into Rumis iconic poetry.

09.01.2022 Our one of a kind expedition through Sudan is an extraordinary adventure. We begin with three nights in the enigmatic city of Khartoum, at the confluence of the White and Blue Niles, where we will witness these guys in action - Nuba Wresters from the Nuba Mountains, before heading north to explore the countrys incredible archaeology. There are 80 pyramids in Egypt. There are more than 240 in the Sudan! We shall be staying in tented camps and remote lodges exploring areas few have laid eyes on, before the grand conclusion of the expedition - sailing down the pristine Red Sea coast in a 60-foot yacht diving with Manta Rays.

07.01.2022 A highlight of any trip to Morocco is the chance to admire the work of some of the most skilled craftsmanship anywhere in the world. For centuries, Moroccan artisans have decorated homes, palaces, schools and places of worship in their characteristic style, working by hand with plaster, wood, zelij tiles and metal to produce breathtaking creations. Our Moroccan Art of Living expedition has a special focus on the countrys art, architecture and design. Throughout our travels, we meet some of the very best artisans and learn the meaning behind their masterpieces.

06.01.2022 Winemaking has a long history in Jordan and has only just re-emerged after remaining dormant for centuries. The Nabataeans produced wine as early as the 1st Century over 80 winepresses of industrial scale have been uncovered at archaeological digs near Petra. The first vines to revive the practice were planted in 2002. Jordans mineral-rich soils, combined with its favourable climate, creates the perfect conditions for growing grapes and the countrys wines have won numerou...s awards at international competitions. In Jordans capital Amman, travellers on our Desert Empires expedition will head to the countrys best wine tasting venue to sample a selection of wines from local label Jordan River. We are joined by one of Jordans preeminent Professors of History, who will set the scene for the journey ahead as we explore the ancient civilisations of Jordan and Saudi Arabia.

04.01.2022 Welcome to the Facebook page of Arcadia Expeditions. Coming soon from Arcadia... Immersive expert-led historical and cultural journeys to the worlds most inspiring and exotic destinations. Like this page to keep up to date with our latest expeditions, news and special offers.

04.01.2022 CEO Magazine recently interviewed Arcadias Co-Founders David Adams and David Mannix. The article (link below) details how Arcadias small group storytelling concept suits a post-Covid travel world and outlines our ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability.

04.01.2022 The mesmerising Whirling Dervish ceremony is performed by disciples of the Mevlevi, a Sufi order founded by the followers of the Persian poet and mystic Rumi. The ritual, known as Sama, represents a spiritual journey through mind and love to perfection. Some performers are overcome with a trance-like state of ecstasy as they seek a closer connection to God. Our expedition to Turkey immerses our travellers in the mystical world of Sufism through visits to ancient Dervish lodges and meetings with Sufi scholars. In the suburbs of Bursa, well off the tourist trail, we have curated a private audience with Sufi devotees who are dedicated followers of Rumi. After hearing about their life and religion, we witness an authentic whirling dervish ceremony rich in emotion and spiritual meaning.

03.01.2022 Sunset in southern Arizona- NO photo shop

02.01.2022 Okavango at Sundance. This is great news for the Jouberts and for Botswana. Join Arcadias Expedition to explore the story of the Okavango ... coming soon with our new website. https://youtu.be/yjXpoudDKZ4 https://m.bizcommunity.africa/Article/410/97/199722.html

02.01.2022 Luxury travel magazine Beau Monde: Arcadia Expeditions make the impossible, possible. By opening doors, unlocking barriers and ingeniously selecting tour times that allow natural wonders to flourish, they’re giving travellers the same private privileges afforded to documentary and film makers. Guests are given intimate and behind-the-scenes access to archaeological wonders, sites and museums, tribes and peoples, and to rarely visited oases other travellers can hardly envisage. We were honoured to be featured this week in Beau Monde Traveler, who have written a piece profiling our company and our founders David Mannix and David Adams. Read the full article in the link below: https://beaumondetraveler.com//searching-for-lost-worlds-/