Category: Gate 1 Trips

Gate 1 Travel is a tour company based in the United States that specializes in providing affordable and high-quality travel experiences to destinations around the world. Founded in 1981, the company has grown to become a leading provider of escorted tours, independent vacations, river cruises, and small group tours, with destinations spanning from Europe to Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Gate 1’s mission is to make travel accessible to everyone, and they achieve this by offering competitive prices, personalized itineraries, and exceptional customer service. Whether travelers are looking to explore historical landmarks, immerse themselves in new cultures, or simply relax and unwind, Gate 1 has a tour package that can suit their needs and interests.

Belize & Guatemala – Gate 1 Trip – April 2026

Donna and I began our adventure with a road trip to Dallas, where we spent a few relaxing days with Donna’s sister, Jan before our international journey. Jan graciously cared for Donna’s mom and our dogs while we traveled, giving us complete peace of mind as we set off for Belize and Guatemala.

Our journey started in Belize City, where we met our guide David and 19 other group members. We quickly transitioned from travel mode into exploration. One of our first highlights was a scenic boat ride along the New River, surrounded by lush jungle and wildlife, leading us to the impressive Lamanai Mayan ruins. Walking among towering temples and ancient carvings—and even climbing one for panoramic jungle views—gave us our first real connection to the region’s deep history.

From there, we shifted gears to the laid-back Caribbean island of Caye Caulker. This was pure island life—colorful streets, friendly locals, and the stunning Belize Barrier Reef just offshore. A full-day catamaran excursion took us snorkeling through vibrant coral gardens, where the group swam alongside tropical fish, nurse sharks, and stingrays—an unforgettable highlight of the Belize portion of our trip.

Back on the mainland, the adventure continued with cave tubing at Jaguar Paw. Floating through a network of underground caves—once considered sacred by the ancient Maya—was both peaceful and surreal. We then traveled inland to San Ignacio, where we enjoyed a glimpse of local life and culture, rounding out a Belize experience that blended history, nature, and relaxation.

Crossing into Guatemala brought a new dimension to the trip. Our first stop was Yaxhá, a lesser-known but spectacular Mayan site overlooking a serene lake. Climbing one of its pyramids rewarded us with sweeping views of the surrounding jungle—an unforgettable moment.

The highlight of Guatemala was undoubtedly Tikal National Park, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mayan world. Walking through this vast jungle city, surrounded by towering pyramids and the sounds of wildlife, felt like stepping back in time. The scale and preservation of Tikal make it one of the most awe-inspiring places we’ve visited.

Our journey continued across Lake Petén Itzá and into the lush Rio Dulce region, where we explored by boat and visited Livingston, a unique coastal town blending Afro-Caribbean and Mayan cultures. A particularly meaningful experience was visiting a local school supported by Gate 1, Rotary, and other community and international efforts, offering insight into daily life and the resilience of the people.

Traveling onward, we visited Quiriguá, home to some of the tallest Mayan stone monuments ever discovered, before arriving in Antigua. This beautifully preserved colonial city, surrounded by volcanoes, provided a perfect ending to the trip. We explored historic churches, local markets, nearby villages, and a working coffee farm where we learned about the production process—and of course, enjoyed a fresh cup.

This journey through Belize and Guatemala offered an incredible mix of adventure, history, and cultural immersion. From snorkeling in the Caribbean and floating through ancient caves to climbing Mayan pyramids and exploring colonial cities, every day brought something new and memorable. It’s a destination we would highly recommend to travelers looking for a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty with rich history and authentic local culture.

On Friday we flew from Guatemala City into DFW, where Chris met us at the airport. On the way to his house, we stopped at Panda Express to pick up Chinese takeout for dinner. Saturday was a relaxing day spent at his home, enjoying time with Chris, Alexis and Victoria, their first baby, before making the drive back home on Sunday.

Cooking Class at a local school – They used Hershey’s Chocolate Chips

Turkey Gate 1 Trip – September 2025

In mid-September, Donna and I flew from El Paso to Istanbul to join a group of fifteen fellow travelers on a Gate 1 tour of Turkey. After several flight delays, we arrived a day late and unfortunately missed the first day of our grand adventure. The following morning, our guide, Sedar, led our group of seventeen curious travelers through the magnificent Topkapi Palace, once home to the Ottoman sultans and a treasure trove of seven centuries of history. Later, we wandered through the bustling Spice Market, its air filled with unforgettable aromas, where we happily spent $85 on Turkish spices, dried fruit, and figs. A short visit to the colorful neighborhoods of Balat and Fener rounded out the day before we returned to our hotel, the 10 Karakoy in Istanbul.

The next morning, we journeyed to Safranbolu, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its beautifully preserved Ottoman architecture. Our first stop was the Crystal Terrace, a glass platform dramatically suspended over the edge of Takatli Canyon, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. We then explored the Kaymakamlar Museum House and strolled through the charming Safranbolu Bazaar before continuing our travels.

A long bus ride took us to Cappadocia, with a stop at Yoruk Village along the way, where we visited the home of a local family and listened to their stories about daily life. The following morning began before sunrise as we joined many of our fellow travelers for an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the surreal landscape of Cappadocia. With twenty-four people aboard, we soared above the fairy chimneys as the sun rose, painting the sky in shades of gold and rose. Later that day, we explored the Goreme Open-Air Museum, home to eleven early Christian rock-cut churches adorned with stunning frescoes. We also visited a local pottery workshop and the Pasabag Valley, famous for its remarkable earth pillars.

The next day brought a full tour of Cappadocia, including visits to the region’s whimsical fairy chimney formations, a carpet atelier—where we couldn’t resist purchasing a beautiful rug—and the fascinating Kaymakli Underground City, a maze of narrow tunnels and rooms carved into soft volcanic rock. Traveling through Pigeon Valley and Cemil Village, we ended the evening with a mesmerizing performance by the Whirling Dervishes, whose graceful spinning embodied both devotion and discipline.

Our journey continued the following day with a five-hour drive to Sagalassos, stopping en route in the city of Konya, renowned for its Seljuk architecture and the Mevlana Museum. Perched on the slopes of the Taurus Mountains, the ancient Roman city of Sagalassos once served as the metropolis of the Roman province of Pisidia and offered a fascinating glimpse into centuries of history.

The highlight of the next day was a private cruise among the Fethiye Islands. Our boat stopped twice along the way for swimming and snorkeling in the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Turquoise Coast, where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas meet.

On the final day of our twelve-day journey, we traveled to the town of Dalyan for a riverboat excursion to the ancient site of Kaunos. There, we marveled at the Lycian tombs carved high into the cliffs and explored the Roman and Hellenistic ruins of this 10th-century site.

In the end, our trip to Turkey was truly unforgettable—filled with incredible sights, wonderful travel companions, a knowledgeable guide, delicious food, and comfortable accommodations. A visit to Turkey, without question, deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list.

Namibia Trip – January 2025

Donna and I recently joined a group of eight for an incredible Gate 1 trip to Namibia. This was our 20th Gate 1 tour and after traveling 10,000 miles from our home, we arrived in the capital city of Windhoek, where we met our guide, Kenneth, and the rest of our travel companions: Kim and Andy from New York, David from Philadelphia, Ed from New Hampshire, and Pattie from Chicago. We all hit it off quickly, making the journey even more enjoyable as we explored Namibia together.

Our adventure began in the Namib Desert and took us across Namibia’s stunning landscapes. Along the way, we explored national parks, drove hundreds of miles on rugged African dirt roads, and embarked on unforgettable safaris. The wildlife was truly spectacular—black rhinos grazing in the distance, elephants moving gracefully in herds, and giraffes towering above the bush as they nibbled on treetops. We saw lions lounging in the sun, a cheetah stalking its prey, and families of zebra blending perfectly into the golden savannah. Springbok and eland roamed in large numbers, while ostriches dashed across the plains. And, of course, we spotted Namibia’s national animal, the elegant and resilient Oryx, with its striking black-and-white face and long, pointed horns.

One of the most memorable cultural experiences was visiting the Himba and Damara tribes in their villages. The Himba people, known for their red ochre-covered skin and intricate hairstyles, welcomed us warmly as our local guides shared insights into the tribe’s semi-nomadic way of life. We learned about their traditions, including how they use natural materials to create their distinctive red paste for skin protection, bathing and adornment. The women demonstrated their skill in crafting beautiful jewelry, while the men explained their role as cattle herders, a cornerstone of their culture.

The Damara people, one of Namibia’s oldest ethnic groups, showcased their rich heritage through music, and dance. Their “click” language was fascinating to hear, as it incorporates a series of unique clicking sounds. In a museum setting, we were introduced to their traditional way of life, which includes crafting tools and ornaments from natural resources, as well as their deep connection to the land. It was inspiring to see how these communities have preserved their heritage despite modern influences.

In addition to these cultural experiences, we marveled at ancient petroglyphs, hiked through breathtaking landscapes, and even stopped by a winery to sample local flavors. Throughout the trip, we savored Namibian cuisine and stayed in beautiful 4- and 5-star lodges that made the experience all the more luxurious.

Evenings were magical, with happy hour sundowners in stunning settings, followed by delicious meals shared with our newfound friends. From the diverse wildlife and incredible scenery to the warm camaraderie and expert guidance of Kenneth, the trip was nothing short of amazing—a true once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Benelux Trip – Gate 1 (Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, & Germany) – October 2024

We took this trip to explore parts of Europe we hadn’t visited before, specifically the Benelux region, which includes Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The name “Benelux” comes from the first letters of each country’s name:

Be for Belgium
Ne for the Netherlands
Lux for Luxembourg

These countries formed a customs union back in 1944 to strengthen economic ties and remove trade barriers, eventually inspiring what we now know as the European Union. Our main reason for visiting was to see Bastogne in Belgium, where Carey’s dad served during World War II in the Battle of the Bulge. It was important for us to visit this historic site.

We arrived in Amsterdam a day before our Gate 1 tour began, giving us the chance to explore the Molen Sloten windmill, which was fascinating. The next day, we met up with our group of 14 travelers, led by our friendly Irish guide, Wesley. Everyone got along really well, making the journey through the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, and Germany even more enjoyable.

Some highlights included walking tours of charming towns like Ghent and Brugge, visiting the impressive Delta Works, and exploring the Rijksmuseum. Of course, we couldn’t resist sampling some local specialties like Belgian waffles, chocolate, beer, and the famous Belgian fries. Despite a few rainy days, the trip was fantastic, thanks to Wesley, our skilled bus driver Mohammed, and the great company of fellow travelers. After the formal tour ended, Donna & I rode a train from Frankfurt to Hamburg with the goal to visit the Miniature Wunderland in Hamburg. I am a model train hobbyist and Miniature Wunderland is the largest model train layout on Earth. We arrived a day early and were able to take a Harbor ferry tour, which was good but the dialogue was in German, so we didn’t understand a word they said. In any case the next day’s visit to Wunderland did not disappoint. It truly was unbelievable attraction and without a doubt, the highlight of the entire trip.

Molen Sloten Windmill – Amsterdam, Netherlands

The American Cemetery in Luxembourg (Patton’s Grave)

Oe of many miniature scenes in Wunderland – Hamburg, Germany

Switzerland Hiking Trip – August 2024

Our first Gate 1 hiking tour was nothing short of extraordinary. With 22 fellow travelers and two exceptional guides, we embarked on an unforgettable journey through the majestic Swiss Alps. Every day was an adventure—riding trains, cable cars, and ski lifts to reach the trails, where we immersed ourselves in breathtaking scenery. We hiked through misty rain, warm sunshine, and pastures dotted with grazing cows, savoring brown bag picnic lunches amid the mountains. The beauty around us was beyond words, and the experience of walking these trails allowed us to connect with nature in a way that no bus window ever could. We explored the UNESCO World Heritage Domaine Bovy Winery, took in the awe-inspiring views from the Harder Klum after a funicular ride, and dined at the summit’s restaurant. Lucerne, the Aareschlucht Gorge, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen, Murren, Montreux, and the Staubbach waterfalls felt like stepping into a fairytale. Hiking the Four Lakes Trail, Panorama Trail, and Flower Trail offered us sweeping views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, as well as the towering Eiger and Wetterhorn North Faces. Our hotel rooms in Lucerne and Geneva provided us with stunning lakeside vistas, adding a touch of serenity to each evening. This was one of our most remarkable trips ever. The flights were smooth, the camaraderie with our group was heartwarming, and our guides, Sabine and Marina, were outstanding. If you haven’t yet added a walking or hiking tour to your travel bucket list, don’t wait. This enriching and meaningful way of exploring offers a profound connection to the places you visit, turning a trip into an unforgettable experience.”

Singapore-Malaysia Trip April 2024

Donna & I embarked on a “Gate 1” journey of discovery as we traversed continents and cultures, beginning with a flight from El Paso to Los Angeles, then on to the vibrant city of San Francisco before soaring across the Pacific on a 17-hour voyage with Singapore Airlines to the dazzling metropolis of Singapore. A city of soaring skyscrapers and cosmopolitan flair, Singapore welcomed us with open arms, boasting a tapestry of Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences woven into its vibrant cultural fabric.

In the heart of this bustling city-state, we met our guide, Dora Lim, and our fellow travelers, 24 strong. Our days were filled with wonder as we immerse ourselves in Singapore’s iconic landmarks—the ethereal Gardens by the Bay, the majestic Marina Bay Sands, and the enchanting Merlion Park, to name but a few.

But our adventure knew no bounds as we bid farewell to Singapore’s shimmering skyline and ventured into the embrace of Malaysia, a land of contrasts where modernity harmonizes with tradition. From the UNESCO heritage town of Malaka to the famous Hindu shrine at Batu Caves, onto the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia captivated us with its blend of ancient charm and cutting-edge innovation.

In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, we stood in awe before the iconic Petronas Towers, delved into the nation’s rich history at the National Museum, and witnessed the artistry of pewter craftsmanship at the Royal Pewter Factory. Each day unfolded like a chapter in a gripping tale, with our intrepid guide, Dora, leading the way with unparalleled expertise and warmth.

As we traversed the Malaysian landscape, from the misty heights of the Cameron Highlands to the storied streets of historic Georgetown, we were reminded of the resilience and vitality of this remarkable nation. Despite the tropical heat and occasional downpours, our spirits remain undaunted, fueled by the camaraderie of our fellow travelers and the boundless wonders that awaited us around every corner.

Click here to read complete trip report

Finland/Lapland Trip – March 2024

Why brave the icy embrace of Finland’s winter? Picture this: soaring from the bustling JFK airport to the serene landscapes of Helsinki, our journey into the heart of Finland and Lapland began. In Helsinki, we marveled at architectural wonders like the awe-inspiring Rock Church and lost ourselves in the labyrinth of knowledge and technology at Oodi, crowned the world’s finest library.

But it was in Rovaniemi, nestled on the fringes of the Arctic Circle, where the true magic unfolded. Our sanctuary was Santa’s Arctic Igloo resort, where under barely visible Northern Lights, we embarked on adventures that stirred the soul. We surrendered to the enchantment of a reindeer sleigh ride under a somewhat cloudy sky, felt the thrill of floating atop the Baltic Sea in survival suits during a Sampo ice-breaker cruise, and reveled in the exhilarating rush of a husky dog-sled ride through the pristine wilderness at the Bearhill husky ranch.

Guided by the talented Daniel, our Gate 1 expedition united 16 intrepid souls for an unforgettable odyssey. Despite the biting chill and the blanket of snow, our spirits remained ablaze with wonder and delight. For in the heart of Finland’s and Lapland’s winter, amidst the frost and the freeze, we discovered the true warmth of adventure and camaraderie.” You have got to put this on your “Bucket List.”

Nepal/Bhutan Trip – April 2023

Donna and I embarked on an unforgettable journey to Nepal and Bhutan alongside a Gate 1 tour group of 15. Our journey began with a flight from JFK to Doha, Qatar, and then to Kathmandu, where we were greeted by our tour guide Avash and the other members of our group. Our itinerary included some incredible highlights such as visiting the ancient palace of Hanuman Dhoka and the Temple of Kumari in Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, exploring the Buddhist Stupa of Swayambhunath – a designated World Heritage Site, and experiencing the medieval city of Bhaktapur, known as the “City of Devotees,” which dates back to the 13th century.

Additionally, we embarked on a spiritual journey to the world-famous Hindu shrine of Pashupatinath, spent three days at a Jungle Resort in Chitwan National Park, toured the Pokhara Valley, and visited the ancient city of Patan – a square filled with Hindu temples and Buddhist monuments. In Bhutan, we were in awe of the extraordinary scenery and striking monasteries, visited Thimphu – a blend of old and new, witnessed monks serenely strolling in their crimson robes, and joined Buddhists performing their daily rituals at the whitewashed National Memorial Chorten.

We also drove to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, pausing to view the astounding snow-clad peaks of Bhutan, visited Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan with its towering, whitewashed walls, and hiked to the world-famous “Tiger’s Nest” on the face of a sheer cliff above the Paro Valley. Our group consisted of seasoned travelers who got along very well, making for a very enjoyable and educational trip.

Sri Lanka – January/February 2023

Sri Lanka Independence Day Parade – Feb. 4, 2023

We embarked on a 15-day Gate 1 journey to Sri Lanka, accompanied by a group of five other travelers and led by our guide Richard, who took us across much of this fascinating island. From the moment we arrived, we experienced a rich blend of history, culture, wildlife, and natural beauty that made this trip truly unforgettable.

After a long journey via Abu Dhabi, we arrived in Colombo and were warmly welcomed before heading to Negombo. Known as “Little Rome,” this coastal town introduced us to Sri Lanka’s colonial heritage, with its churches, historic sites, and a relaxing walk along the beach—an ideal way to begin our adventure.

We then traveled into Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, where we explored the remarkable ruins of Polonnaruwa, once a thriving royal capital. One of the standout highlights of our trip was visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya, where we climbed approximately 1,200 steps to reach the summit. The effort was well worth it, as we were rewarded with breathtaking views and a glimpse into an ancient civilization perched high above the surrounding landscape.

Along the way, we experienced daily life in a traditional Sri Lankan village—walking through the countryside, learning local customs, and enjoying a freshly prepared meal of rice and curry. We also visited a variety of temples, including the remarkable cave temples of Dambulla, filled with Buddhist statues and intricate wall paintings that date back centuries.

Our journey continued to Kandy, where we visited the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka. We also explored the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens, known for their impressive collection of orchids and towering palms. One evening, we were welcomed into a local family’s home, where we experienced genuine Sri Lankan hospitality, enjoyed a traditional meal, and watched cultural dance and music performances—one of the most personal and memorable moments of the trip.

Traveling into the highlands, we reached Nuwara Eliya, the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country. We toured a working tea estate and factory, learning how Ceylon tea is grown, processed, and prepared, all while surrounded by rolling green hills and waterfalls that created some of the most scenic views of our journey.

Our time in Yala National Park was especially exciting. On a guided Jeep safari, we explored diverse landscapes filled with wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds. We were fortunate enough to spot a leopard—an unforgettable highlight. During this portion of the trip, we also had the unique opportunity to engage in a discussion with a Buddhist Monk, gaining insight into meditation and spiritual practices in Sri Lanka.

We continued along the southern coast to Weligama Bay, where we enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and scenic ocean views. A visit to the historic Galle Fort revealed Sri Lanka’s colonial past, while the sight of traditional stilt fishermen along the coastline added a distinctive cultural touch. We also visited a turtle hatchery, where we learned about conservation efforts and saw newly hatched turtles—another meaningful experience that rounded out our journey.

Our trip concluded in Colombo with a final city tour and farewell dinner, giving us time to reflect on everything we had experienced. From climbing ancient rock fortresses and exploring historic cities to encountering wildlife and connecting with local culture, this journey through Sri Lanka provided us with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this remarkable country.

Climbing the stairs at Sirigiya – a UNESCO World Heritage site

Mexico Trip – December 2022

Above – Video Clip – Entertainment on the Trajinera Boat at Mexico’s Xochimilco Canals

During a Gate 1 adventure, my friend Doug Borrett and I embarked on a journey from Mexico to Cancun to discover the rich history of the Olmec, Mayan, and Aztec civilizations, as well as their pyramids. Our itinerary included visits to several museums, temples, and churches, where we received detailed explanations from our archeologist tour guide, Julie Miller. Accompanied by 22 other travelers, we formed a cohesive group, enjoying each other’s company and engaging in meaningful discussions. We returned home just in time for Christmas, enriched by a fascinating and educational experience.

Click here to read the complete Trip Report