Behind the Journeys

With Christopher Nolan's re-telling of The Odyssey filling cinemas, Greece both ancient and modern is trending. We have been captivated by this beautiful, storied country for a long time and our tours are curated by our very own Grecophile, Alexander Oliver. Alex has a lifelong connection to the country and a degree in ancient – mostly Greek – history too. For this week's blog, we asked him to tell us more about that family history and share three of his favourite Greek destinations.

Como is synonymous with silk. A global hub for silk production since the 14th century, the Italian province is known across the world for its exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality textiles. The city of Como is home to a duo of museums which together tell the fascinating story of Italy’s textile heritage. 

Each October, the Italian city of Parma celebrates the life, music and legacy of legendry composer, Giuseppe Verdi. As we look forward to the 2026 edition, we asked award-winning opera critic Charlotte Valori, who is leading our holiday to the festival, to tell us where her love of this art form began, why she loves to share it with others and what she is looking forward to at the Parma Verdi Festival 2026. 

The Columbia Icefield - the geological heart of Jasper National Park - is a surviving remnant of the thick ice mass that once covered most of the mountains of Western Canada. It is an awe-inspiring, magical place; monumental but fragile and to be there in person is an experience that will live long in the memory.

Inaugurated in 1628, Parma's Teatro Farnese was the first modern theatre in the western world. Located inside the imposing Pilotta Palace, it is one of this beautiful, old city's most striking and storied gems. 

Boasting a storied past, Venetian architecture, stunning mountain views and an internationally acclaimed restaurant, the14th-century village of 'Old' Perithia is one of Corfu's most beautiful gems.