Are you passionate about history, architecture and beautiful destinations? Then we at Luxury Gold recommend that you make one of these enchanting walled cities part of your next vacation. For centuries, civilizations across the globe have protected their people with walls. Steeped in history and beautifully preserved for future generations, these charming, fortified cities and towns now offer travelers the chance to experience a bygone era.

Explore ramparts and battlements and enjoy amazing views. Meander through tiny streets, revel in historical tales and soak up the feudal atmosphere.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Regarded as the most picturesque city on the Dalmatian Coast, the moment you see Dubrovnik you understand why it is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dubrovnik’s beautiful Old City is completely surrounded by magnificent defensive walls and forts, running nearly 1.25 miles around the Old City. To admire Dubrovnik in all its glory, take to the top of the walls where you can walk fully round and enjoy exceptional views of the city squares, palaces, narrow streets and intricate architecture, all flanked by the crystal blue Adriatic Sea. The city is also famed as the main filming location for Kings Landing, in the hugely popular television series Game of Thrones.

To see the beauty of Dubrovnik for yourself, along with the many wonders of Croatia, take a look at our Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast two-week luxury guided tour. Discover the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice National Park, savor oysters straight from the sea and soak up a stunning mix of medieval and modern architecture in the capital, Zagreb. Dubrovnik provides a spectacular ending to this magical journey, with plenty of time to discover the city and hike around the walls.

Avignon, France

Nestled in the heart of Southern France, Avignon was the seat of the Catholic Popes from 1309 to 1377 and is entirely enclosed by ancient walls. Construction was started by Pope Innocent IV in 1355 to protect against free bands of mercenaries, attracted by the papal wealth. Recognized for its architectural beauty and historic importance, the center of Avignon was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

You can visit Avignon on our Ultimate Southern France luxury guided tour, and explore the walls, visit the Palais des Papes, the world’s largest gothic edifice and dine at Michelin-starred La Vieille Fontaine. This 12-Day tour immerses you in the best of French cuisine, architecture and culture as you journey across the South Coasts of France and Monaco. Explore sights including the Aix-En-Provence Cathedral, Old Town Albi, which features monuments from the 10th Century, Monte Carlo and the charming streets of Old Nice.

San Gimignano, Italy

The small walled town of San Gimignano is one of the most recognizable and iconic destinations in all of Tuscany. Known as “Medieval Manhattan”, the town has an unforgettable skyline, due to the myriad of towers that rise up over the rooftops. Built by the noble families and upper middle-class merchants who controlled the town, the towers were symbols of their wealth and power – there were some 65 tower houses when the city was at its height, with 13 still surviving today.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of San Gimignano on our Ultimate Italy luxury guided tour – a 12-Day voyage that takes in the historical sights of Florence, Venice, Pompei and Rome. Visit the stunning 15th century wine domain of Guardastelle, with its spectacular views of San Gimignano’s magnificent towers and toast the view with a delicious glass of local wine.

Quebec City, Canada

Quebec City is North America’s first permanent French settlement and the only walled city in Canada – in fact it is the only fortified city north of Mexico. The ramparts circle Old Quebec’s upper town and date back to the 17th Century and include four gates, three Martello towers and several cannons. Inside the walls sits the famous Château Frontenac, the Citadelle de Québec and the Dufferin Terrace, a 425 meter long wooden boardwalk.

We have two fabulous luxury guided tours that take you to Quebec City. The eight-day Indulgence in Eastern Canada explores the stunning area of Eastern Canada and combines the architecture of Quebec City and Ottawa with breathtaking natural beauty including Niagara Falls. Or take a look at our nine-day Vibrant Quebec & New England luxury guided tour, which leads you through stunning landscapes and architectural gems including the 19th Century Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal, and Harvard University. Both tours spend time in Quebec City, where you can dive into the city’s rich history with a Local Expert, and see the Citadelle de Québec, Latin Quarter, Plains of Abraham, National Assembly and Place-Royale.

York, England

Step back in time in the medieval city of York with its cobbled streets and gothic buildings. Once an important center of Roman occupancy in England, the city is surrounded by a large stone wall, which was crucial for defense. Originally built around AD 71, substantial portions remain, having undergone transformations and repairs over the years. Visitors can walk along the walls and enjoy spectacular views of the River Ouse and the Old Town.

York is one of the fascinating stops on our three-week Castles & Kingdoms luxury guided tour. The ultimate voyage for fans of history and architecture, take in the some of the most magnificent castles, stately homes, cities and gardens across the United Kingdom, Scotland and Ireland. The city is also one of the treasures on our ten-day British Royale luxury guided tour.  On both tours, explore York with the help of Local Experts, see the grand York Minster and enjoy after-hours VIP access at Castle Howard, one of Britain’s finest historic houses.

Londonderry

Londonderry is the only remaining intact walled city in Ireland, and one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe. The mile-long fortifications were built in the 17th Century and include gates, watchtowers, battlements, bastions and huge cannons. History is all around you here, from the famous murals to the story of the Armada – in 1971 divers from Londonderry found the wreak of the La Trinidad Valencera, and the artifacts recovered help to paint a vivid picture of the Armada and of the soldiers of the 16th Century.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this fascinating city on our Ultimate Ireland luxury guided tour. Join Ronan McNamara, the finest storyteller in Northern Ireland and leave informed, enthralled and entertained. With Ultimate Ireland you will also see the Titanic Shipyards in Belfast, Dublin’s Trinity College, the impressive Giant’s Causeway and uncover the stories of Blarney Castle. Londonderry is also a destination on our Castles & Kingdoms luxury guided tour, mentioned above.

Keen to walk those walls?

If you’re already searching for your walking boots and planning your next vacation, why not make it extra special with Luxury Gold? Enjoy exclusive hotels, exceptional dining and VIP Experiences for a truly memorable experience, while your Traveling Concierge and Well-Being Director look after the logistics every step of the way.

For more information on these stunning destinations, and all of our luxury guided tours please visit our website.

As keen travelers we love to meet new people and experience other cultures, it is what travel is all about. Most cities around the world are welcoming to visitors, but some have earned an exceptional reputation for being incredibly friendly.

Here, at Luxury Gold, we’ve been doing some research and have highlighted some of the stand-out destinations on the friendliness scale – these cities are easy to navigate, offer amazing hospitality and a fun, jovial atmosphere. Now what could be considered more luxurious than a genuine warm welcome?

Dublin, Ireland

World renowned for its friendly people, Ireland is an enchanting country from its quaint villages and sublime landscapes to its vibrant towns and cities. To experience the very best of a warm Irish welcome, take a journey to its effervescent capital Dublin. A must for enthusiasts of history, literature, music and Guinness, Dublin is small but has it all. Experience the craic, a mixture of humor, intelligence, fun and entertainment for which Ireland is famous, and is guaranteed to make any visitor feel at home

The Custom House is a neoclassical 18th century building in Dublin, Ireland which houses the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Indulge in the very best of Dublin on our Ultimate Ireland and Castles & Kingdoms luxury guided tours. Both spend two nights in Dublin, staying in the gorgeous boutique Dylan Hotel. Choose to travel on a Chairman’s Collection departure and experience the ultimate in friendly invitations, as Patrick Guinness, historian, author and one of the heirs to the Guinness business dynasty joins you, after hours, at the Little Museum. Savor a a glass of sparkling, along with museum founder Trevor White, enjoy warm conversation and learn about Irish history and the origins of the Guinness’ brewing empire.

Vancouver, Canada

Majestic mountains, glistening oceans, rainforests, beaches and beautiful foliage make Vancouver an unmissable destination on any nature-lovers bucket list.  This coastal, seaport city is one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse cities in Canada, truly a city for everyone, and is known for its affable, approachable people. Enjoy extensive parks, theatres and galleries, and treat yourself with fantastic shopping.

Tourists in Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park, Vancouver.

Arrive in Vancouver in style on our Majesty of the Rockies luxury guided tour, aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train. Taking the sumptuous Gold Leaf Service, indulge in gourmet dining and glorious panoramic views from the glass domed coach as you travel from Jasper to Vancouver. With a full day to explore this friendly city, see the sights, soak up the views  and enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Salmon n’ Bannock, the only restaurant in the city owned and operated by members of Canada’s First Nations.

Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.

In the country music capital of the world, expect a host of good-natured southerners who will flash you a smile and tip their cowboy hats to say hello. Nashville is a city eternally tapping its feet to the rhythm of life, where you will find good manners, intoxicating music and the very best of barbeque cuisine.

Nashville Tennessee

For music lovers, a visit to Nashville on The Sumptuous Soul of America and Southern Grace luxury guided tours is a truly unmissable VIP Experience, taking you deep into the heart of “Music City”. Tour historic Studio B with a professional sound engineer and take part in a choir-style recording session – you can even take home a copy of the recording as a one-of-a-kind souvenir to impress your friends and family! Join an esteemed singer/songwriter for an in-depth tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Then to top off an unforgettable day, take in a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry, country’s most famous stage.

If you choose to travel on a The Sumptuous Soul of America and Southern Grace Chairman’s Collection departure, you will meet one of two music legends, either Country Hall of Fame musician Charlie McCoy or Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Brenda Lee, for a special introduction to the city’s impressive music history. Wow!

Tokyo, Japan

Japan is renowned as a friendly, welcoming country, with a culture that places great value on courteous and gracious behavior, and its magnificent capital, the huge metropolis of Tokyo, is no different. An intoxicating mix of the ultramodern and traditional, where neon-lit skyscrapers sit alongside historic temples, there a new surprise for visitors around every corner. Despite its size, the city is so clean it almost looks brand new and, if you ever find yourself a bit lost in all the bustle, even with the language barrier you are never short of a helpful local to show you the way.

Tokyo Sky Tree and cherry blossom during spring at Japan.

Explore this amazing city and country on our 11-Day Majestic Japan luxury guided tour, and get deep into the heart of the fascinating culture and delectable cuisine with the expert guidance of your Traveling Concierge. Stay at the 5-star Imperial Hotel which has welcomed royalty, heads of state and celebrities for over 120 years, and enjoy flawless Japanese hospitality and sumptuous rooms. For lovers of gastronomy, choose to join a cooking class and learn about the art of making sushi, using the highest quality fish. Test your artistic skills and discover why it takes ten years to become a Master Sushi Chef!

Copenhagen, Denmark

Home to some of the world’s happiest people, cutting-edge architecture and radiating a laid-back lifestyle, Copenhagen is a colorful, welcoming city. Compact and easy to navigate, the danish capital is picturesque and surrounded by sea, with a center largely given over to pedestrians. Cafes and exceptional museums rule by day, with a vibrant music scene taking over the night. Famous landmarks include the Little Mermaid, the Rosenborg Castle and the Renaissance Stock Exchange.

Nyhavn with colorful facades of old houses and old ships in the Old Town of Copenhagen, capital of Denmark

Our Timeless Scandinavia luxury guided tour takes you on a magical 12-day voyage through friendly Nordic lands, starting in Copenhagen and finishing in Oslo, Norway.  A Luxury Gold highlight in Copenhagen, above and beyond the standard sights, is Tivoli, an amusement park founded in 1843 and considered a national treasure. Enjoy beautifully manicured gardens, let your hair down with thrilling rides and revel in the entertainment and enchanting atmosphere – a guaranteed a fun night out.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a sight to behold, spread out either side of the mighty Danube River, everywhere you look there is beautiful architecture and, when lit up at night, it is a truly unforgettable experience. Everywhere you turn, friendly residents are very keen to show off their customs, traditions and warm hospitality – expect music, smiles and lot of entertainment.

View of Budapest and the Danube river

Spend a blissful two nights in Budapest on our 13-day Harmony of Central Europe luxury guided tour, which also takes in Prague, Vienna, Kraków and Warsaw. Visit the stunning, neo-Gothic Parliament Building and see the Holy Crown of Hungary. Admire St Stephen’s Basilica, explore the medieval Castle District and visit the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church. Indulge your senses at the Michelin-starred Borkonyha Winekitchen, with its innovative and creative gourmet cuisine that combines French bistro style and contemporary Hungarian influence.

Feeling Inspired by the friendliness?

Well, we hope you’re feeling warm and fuzzy from all this friendliness, and that it has got you thinking about where to travel next for your dream vacation.

Whenever you choose to travel, we invite you to make up for lost time and treat yourself with Luxury Gold. Enjoy 5-star hotels, exceptional dining and exclusive VIP experiences that will stay with you forever. From the moment you leave your home until you return, you don’t have to worry about a thing, with your Traveling Concierge and Well-Being Director ensuring a flawless and luxurious journey tailored for you.

For more information on the fabulous destinations and luxury guided tours mentioned here, and all the amazing destinations in our collection, take a look at our website and interactive brochure for 2022 & 2023.

Truly, one of life’s great delights is cheese. Whether served after dinner with Ligurian olives, melted into a mornay sauce or simply between two slices of freshly baked bread, it can be either an elegant or a simple pleasure.

“Dessert without cheese is like a beauty with only one eye”– Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, author of The Physiology of Taste

Although you may be able to get Limburger or Camembert in your local deli, nothing beats tasting it in the region that it is created. The wonderful news is that many of the world’s best cheese producers have opened their borders again and the time is ripe to explore them. If you’re seeking some off the beaten track experiences, then perhaps you should choose a luxury guided tour to one of these incredible destinations. Discover the small towns where specialty cheeses originate and perhaps uncover some new cheeses in surprising places. It’s the perfect excuse to feast your way through your vacation.

From the Oldest to the Bubbliest

Fondue in Switzerland. Photo by angela pham on Unsplash

A land of snow-capped peaks and bucolic meadows, Switzerland is not just famous for its chocolate, but also its cheeses. Many people will associate Emmentaler with the country, instantly recognizable from its signature eyes. However, cheese lovers will find there are many more varieties to enjoy on the Majestic Switzerland tour with Luxury Gold.

Visit La Gruyères, the mecca of cheese in Switzerland, on the eighth day of your luxury tour. There you will experience the ultimate treat, a bubbling fondue made with the local delicacy. Don’t miss the chance to try Sbrinz, one of the oldest cheeses, that was first mentioned in official records in 70 A.D. It pairs well with a glass of Barolo.

The Cheese Regions of France

Camembert Cheese. Photo by Margaret Jaszowska on Unsplash

Visitors to France are spoiled for choice with the variety of cheeses on offer. In Bordeaux where it’s customary to have cheese with your wine, try a velvety Merlot with a flavorful Tome de Brebis with Piment d’Espelette. The famous cheese cave at Baud et Millet houses over 100 varieties and is an excellent place for cheese tasting tours.

In Normandy, you can explore the Cheese Museum and President Farm, where Camembert originates. If you’re venturing to the French Alps, try Reblochon, Tomme de Savoie and Beaufort cheeses. Travel on Luxury Gold’s French Vogue tour and enjoy a gourmet food walk, which will take you to tiny cheese shops of Paris.

Scotland and England

Stilton Blue Cheese. Photo by Coombe Castle

Although Scotland isn’t the first place one would think of when it comes to cheese, travelers will find an excellent selection of farmhouse cheeses in the small country. From the marbled Cambus O’May that melts in your mouth, to the salty and tangy Lanark Blue that is created from raw sheep’s milk. England is famous for its Stilton, as the town of the same name can be found in Cambridgeshire, though the cheese is no longer made there. The crusted, blue veined cheese is often served in celery or broccoli soup and sometimes blended into a mouth watering sauce for steak.

In the rolling valleys of the Cotswolds, you’ll see where the semi-hard Gloucester cheese is made and an annual cheese rolling competition takes place. Guests traveling on the British Royale tour can discover more about cheesemaking in the United Kingdom and sample some of the delightful offerings, including Stilton, found on many restaurant menus.

A Feast for All the Senses

Mozzarella cheese. Photo by Sebastian Coman Photography from Pexels

In a country where cheese is central to their national dishes, it’s no surprise that Italy has some well-known cheesemakers. Mozzarella, gorgonzola, pecorino, ricotta, Parmigano-Reggiano – Italy has such a diverse range of cheese tastes that you could spend your whole vacation trying a new one each day. Join the Ultimate Italy tour and make sure you sample a few on your 12-day adventure.

If you’re journeying to Sardinia, you may come across the controversial  casu marzu containing live insect larvae that is exclusively made on the island. It is a traditional delicacy on the island, but it is actually illegal in the EU and the United States.

The Region of Don Quixote and Manchego

Manchego Cheese. Photo by the Cheese Connoisseur

Those familiar with Spain will most likely have tried Manchego, the sheep’s milk cheese that comes from the herds of Albacete, Toledo and Ciudad Real. It’s buttery flavor goes well with a glass of Tempranillo and it can almost be spicy when matured for a lengthy period. Join the Spain & Portugal in Style tour and you’ll certainly see Manchego on sale at the markets of Andalusia on Day 7 of your journey. If you venture further north, you’ll find Basque specialties such as Ossau-Iraty and the smoky Idiazabal.

A Well-Kept Secret

Gamalost Cheese. Photo by cheesemaking.com

Travelers on the Timeless Scandinavia tour may be surprised to discover that Norway is home to two world champion cheeses, Kraftkar, a blue cheese and Fanaost, a semi hard cheese that comes from a tiny dairy farm south of Bergen. The moist, coarse Gamalost is a unique cheese that is celebrated in a four day festival every year in the town of Vik, set amid the western fjords of Norway. It has a distinctive smell and is enjoyed with buttered bread and cranberry jelly.

The World’s Largest Cheese Producer

Rogue Creamery Rogue River Blue. Photo by the Cheese Connoisseur

The United States produces the most cheese every year and it also exports the most cheese around the world. However, does that mean that it has best cheese, or is it simply quantity over quality? That’s no longer up for debate, as Rogue Creamery’s Rogue River Blue no.1 took first place at the World Cheese Awards in 2019.

On the Vibrant Quebec and New England tour, you’ll venture into Vermont, which is home to some of the most incredible artisanal cheeses in the country. Try Cabot Clothbound Cheddar with some crisp apple slices or Vermont Shepherd Verano, an earthy cheese made from sheep’s milk.

Canadian Cheese Culture

Allegretto Cheese. photo by scoutmagazine.ca

Samuel de Champlain brought cows from Normandy to Canada in the early 1600s, and thus began the tradition of cheesemaking in the country. Cheddar cheese became one of the main exportable products of dairy farmers for over 50 years, but that declined over the course of the 20th century.

Discover the cheeses of Quebec on the Indulgence in Eastern Canada tour. The area is home to over 100 cheesemakers and you’ll enjoy a tasting picnic on day 6 of your vacation. Look out for the creamy Cantonnier, with notes of hazelnut and the sweeter Allegretto.

Pair with a Fruity Red

Gippsland Blue. photo by Two Providores

In a country that has established itself on the international wine scene, it’s perhaps predictable that it has a robust cheese market too. Gippsland Blue is aged in underground cellars to develop blue vein characteristics; this is a wonderful accompaniment to a sweet dessert wine. Mandolin is a supple, crumbly cheese from south Australia that develops a rusty red appearance.

If you’re looking for luxury guided travel Down Under, check out Inspiring Australia with Luxury Gold.

Cheese Tastes All Over the World

If you’re craving a cheese tasting experience this summer, then check out Luxury Gold’s last minute specials. Several of the luxury guided tours listed above have great savings right now, or you may even discover a new artisan cheesemaker somewhere unexpected. It’s time to get out and explore again.