The Friendly Planet Newsletter
Published Oct 12, 2021
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Tasked with protecting some of our world's best-kept treasures, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) designates places and natural sites that illustrate the perseverance of humanity, the lingering spirit of ancient cultures, and the irreplaceable wonders that serve as a backdrop to our shared history. After nearly two years of travel hiatus, these vibrant urban environments are once again open. Join us and let our expert guides weave together rich histories and colorful traditions to bring these cities to life right before your eyes!
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Old Cairo, Egypt
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Hidden in a labyrinth of narrow alleys, tucked away among the modern, Old Cairo is one of the world's oldest Islamic cities. Home to intricate mosques, Roman-era ruins, and settlements that pre-date the contemporary city's founding, historic Cairo was named a World Heritage Site in 1979.
Featured on our Best of Egypt & Nile Cruise program. |
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Medina of Fez, Morocco
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Considered Morocco's cultural and spiritual center, the Medina of Fez was founded in the 9th century and is home to palaces, monuments, community spaces, sprawling souks, and more! Despite its small geographic footprint, just 1 square mile, more than 1.5 million people make their home there among the winding alleys.
Featured on our Best of Morocco program. |
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Quito, Ecuador
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Nestled in a valley among the towering Andes mountains, Ecuador's capital city is rich with Incan architecture, ornate cathedrals, and the best-preserved historic center in all of Latin America! Archeologists believe that Quito is the oldest continuously inhabited city in South America--founded in 980 AD.
Featured on our Ecuadorian Amazon River Cruise Adventure program. |
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Havana, Cuba
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Founded over 500 years ago and inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1982, Cuba's capital city overflows with a unique mix of Baroque and neoclassical architecture. Roam through the narrow streets filled with quaint promenades, children playing, hidden courtyards full of lush greenery, and bustling activity around every corner.
Featured on our Authentic Havana program. |
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Rhodes, Greece
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Located on the northernmost part of the island, along the turquoise blue Aegean sea, Rhodes thrived in antiquity and still does today! Expertly preserved fortifications, built by the Knights of Saint-John beginning in 1309, still surround the city's pedestrian streets, making it perfect for exploring the charming alleys, artisan shops, and quaint restaurants.
Featured on our Athens & 7 Day Greek Isles Cruise program. |
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Split, Croatia
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A city already 17 centuries old, Split's layered history is honored daily as locals and visitors alike embrace an artful blend of historical periods found at every turn. No matter where you go, the pages of the past are front-and-center: Baroque facades, Roman churches, Gothic palaces, Renaissance homes, modern architecture, and more.
Featured on our Discover Croatia program. |