There is so much to see and enjoy across Europe from Germany’s architecture, to Frances artistic attractions and an array of historical sites in Italy.
Key attractions not to be missed on your tours are:
Italy – The Colosseum, built in AD 70-80 using travertine, limestone and volcanic rock, seating over 80,000 spectators, it was most famously known for its gladiator fights but it was also the arena for re-enactments of famous battles and executions. More remarkably, it was also the set for simulated sea battles! The arena would be filled with water so vessels could float in during the shows and drained rapidly afterwards.
Equally as interesting is the engineering behind this theatre. It had a retractable awning to protect its spectators from the bad weather! Also hidden beneath the colosseum was a warren of tunnels and cells which held the gladiators and animals captive before they were sent to fight.
Another site not to miss in Italy is Pompeii – a 440,000 square meter town that was tragically engulfed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. Approximately 10 percent of the population died and the city was buried under lava and volcanic ash. The lava preserved the town which means you can walk the streets and see the well-preserved buildings such as the Lupanare (brothel), and thermopolium (the Roman equivalent of fast food).
France - The famous Eiffel Tower, at the centre of Champ de Mars in Paris, built to be the entrance to the World's Fair in1889.This world famous structure has not always been admired though, in fact Engineer Gustave Eiffel was greatly criticised by locals, calling it a monstrosity! Never did he or they imagine quite how successful and important a structure it would be today, with its 81 floors of exhibits, viewing decks, cafes and gift shops.
Venice – The floating city. A romantic location with over 118 islands connected by the canals that run through Venice. Grab a gondola and sit back, relax and take in the scenery.
Romania – Dracula’s Castle - Bram Stoker’s 1897 Gothic, horror novel Dracula may be imaginary, but the castle isn’t. It was the real life setting of the sinister novel and is located just outside of Brasov in Romania. Officially known as Bran Castle it includes all the weapons and armour that is mentioned in Bram’s book. As for the blood-sucker himself, Bram used Vlad the Impaler as his muse. A ruler who was notorious for brutal torture and demise of in excess of 10,000 people during his reign.
Turkey – Turkey has an array of wonders to offer from Mosques to palaces, to hot springs and the famous bazaars