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The Gift of Travel
Dear Travellers,
Experiences make the very best gifts, whether you’re looking to treat yourself or someone you love. Travel is, of course, the ultimate experience – with memories that just keep on giving. That said, we’ve got some wonderful tours coming up that would make the perfect present.
For the nature lover: With lush landscapes and luxurious hot springs, picturesque crater lakes and hydrangea-lined roads, our 2-island tour to the stunning Azores is natural beauty at its best – with plenty of great food and Portuguese culture, too.
For the active adventurer: Hiking in the Italian Dolomites and Slovenia is an incredible chance to explore one of Europe’s most stunning regions, take in dramatic peaks and charming alpine towns, and walk along picturesque trails past peaceful lakes and rivers.
For the history buff: Discover the wonders of two of the world’s oldest civilizations on our land and cruise tour to Turkey and Greece. Visit incredible Istanbul. See Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. Check out the Acropolis in Athens and explore the legendary labyrinth of King Minos on Crete.
Whatever tour is your perfect gift, Senior Discovery Tours has something for everyone, with an itinerary for every travel style. Check out our brochure for all the details.
Merry travels!
Danny Shay, President
Senior Discovery Tours
We turn 50 in 2025!
We’re getting ready for a year-long anniversary event! Since our first bus tour in 1975, we’ve curated thousands of trips for countless happy travellers – an achievement that’s definitely worth celebrating! Stay tuned for contests, giveaways and special promotions in upcoming newsletters. We’re also planning a special anniversary cruise with Princess Cruises – details to come. We can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with you!
5 Unforgettable Experiences in the Azores
From discovering stunning crater lakes to eating delicious local fare, luxuriating in hot springs to sampling wines grown in volcanic soil, there’s no shortage of things to do on this beautiful Portuguese archipelago.
See the blue and green lakes of Sete Cidades São Miguel’s famous twin crater lakes are one of the most photographed spots in the Azores: one appears blue, and the other green. They are surrounded by a lush, subtropical landscape dotted with the wild blue hydrangea you’ll find throughout the islands – the view looking down from one of the many viewpoints is always a show-stopper.
Sample food cooked in a volcanic vent The charming village of Furnas on São Miguel features bubbling, geothermal springs where the locals have traditionally cooked food. Try some volcano-cooked corn, or fill up on the hearty Cozido das Furnas, a tasty combination of meats and vegetables.
Go for a therapeutic soak in Terra Nostra Park No trip to São Miguel Island is complete without a visit to these iron-rich, 35ºC to 40ºC mineral waters, which come from the park's natural hot spring source. The iron turns the water an orange colour, but don't let that put you off – it’s a wonderful way to relax surrounded by the beauty of a beautiful botanical park.
Check out a pineapple plantation São Miguel is the only place in the world where pineapples are grown in greenhouses – Azorean pineapples are smaller than the ones you’re familiar with, but are sweeter and less acidic. Sample fresh pineapple juice, the island’s tasty pineapple liqueur, and other pineapple delicacies.
Visit a vineyard on tiny Pico island This charming island is home to a 500-year-old wine region that has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004. The rocky, volcanic terrain makes these vineyards unlike anything you’ve seen before, with grapes growing in black coral mazes and all work done by hand. It’s a fascinating place – and a wonderful chance to try some uniquely delicious wines.
Enjoy all these experiences and more on our Azores 2-Island Stay Put Spring tour. Join us April 3-16, 2025.
6 Best Things About
Hiking in the Dolomites
When you think of a trip to Italy, the Dolomite Mountains may not be the first destination that comes to mind but it definitely should. This UNESCO-designated section of the southeastern Alps is a favourite for those in the know. With picturesque Tyrolean villages, rolling green pastures, and breathtaking views, it offers plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventure.
Excellent hiking. The Dolomites are a dream destination for hikers – it doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner, expert, or something in between. The area has trails for all effort levels, and every single one has jaw-dropping views. Our hiking tour to the Italian Dolomites and Slovenia takes full advantage of everything this stunning region has to offer, with six spectacular hikes, each available in two effort levels.
Unbelievable sunsets. The Dolomites are famous for the colour show they put on at sunrise and sunset. As the sun moves, it causes a stunning explosion of colour in a phenomenon known as enrosadira, which translates to “turning pink.”
Beautiful Dobbiaco. Known as the “Gateway to the Dolomites,” this enchanting town boasts incredible views and a rich architectural history: you can explore everything from 600-year-old Herbstenburg Castle to the sprawling Tyrolean-style Grand Hotel, built in the early 1900s.
Tre Cime (the Three Peaks). These famous peaks dominate the landscape. Resembling castle battlements, these craggy spires are the area’s most iconic landmark.
WW1 history. The area has an intricate array of paths, tunnels and galleries constructed by Italian and Austrian soldiers who needed to move safely in a dangerous environment.
Fantastic food. After you’ve worked up an appetite hiking, dig into the area's unique blend of Italian and Austrian cuisine. Try the sauerkraut with smoked ham, wonderful local cheeses, sausages, game, goulash, and truly excellent apple strudel. The region also produces excellent wine – you’ll spot vineyards along the mountain slopes.
Join us May 19-30, 2025 for our tour to the Italian Dolomites and Slovenia – it’s an unforgettable hiking experience in one of the world’s most beautiful settings.
Riding a Hot Air Balloon in
Cappadocia, Turkey
Is a sunrise hot air balloon ride over magical scenery on your bucket list? Drifting silently through the sky with dozens of other balloons over this UNESCO World Heritage site is…epic. Here’s what you can expect.
An early start. Most balloon rides start early so you can catch the sunrise over Cappadocia's unique terrain, which is filled with "fairy chimneys," rock formations, vineyards, and picturesque valleys. It can be chilly in the early hours: dress in layers so you can shed them as the air warms up.
Pre-flight prep. Once you reach the take-off site, you'll watch them inflate the balloon (which is mesmerizing). After a quick safety briefing, step on board and get ready to fly!
Take-off and flight. The balloon lifts you gently off the ground, taking you over incredible scenery as your pilot skillfully maneuvers up and down to give you views from various heights. As the light shifts with the rising sun, it casts a lovely glow on the landscape – it feels like being in a fairy tale! Balloons can travel anywhere between 4 and 20 km, depending on the wind speed.
Great views from every angle. Balloon baskets are specially designed with compartments that ensure everyone on board has a good view. Most pilots will rotate the balloon so everyone can see all angles equally.
Major photo ops. Don’t forget your camera! This ride is a chance to capture some truly magical photos. You’ll be in the air with lots of other balloons, with a backdrop of heart-meltingly beautiful pink skies, glowing valleys, and surreal rock formations.
Our tour to Turkey and Greece (May 11-25, 2025) has the option of a balloon ride in Cappadocia – join us for an opportunity to get a bird’s eye view of one of the planet’s most beautiful landscapes.
Why travel with us? Reason #8:
A tour to suit everyone
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely break, an active adventure, or something in between, we’ve got you covered. With Senior Discovery Tours, you’ve got 8 tour styles to choose from including stay-put vacations, 2- and 3-centre holidays, rail journeys, walking and hiking tours, cruises, and more. So you can take your time to relax and explore…or experience the thrill of multiple destinations. Need a great reason to book your next SDT tour? How about 10? Every month, we’ll highlight one of the many benefits of travelling with us. To see the whole list, check out the first few pages of one of our brochures!
4 Movie Sets in Turkey
Winter Sleep (2014)
This Palme d'Or-winning Turkish film is about a former actor who runs a small hotel in Cappadocia and reflects on his life. It captures the beauty of Cappadocia’s landscape and offers a slow, philosophical exploration of human nature.
Crossing the Bridge: The Sound of Istanbul (2005)
A look at Istanbul’s eclectic music scene, from traditional Turkish folk to hip-hop and rock. It’s a great introduction to Turkey’s diverse musical heritage and Istanbul's rich, multicultural vibe.
The Ottoman Lieutenant (2017)
Set during World War I, this historical romance follows a young American nurse who travels to a Turkish mission and falls for a lieutenant in the Ottoman Army. It's a glimpse into Ottoman history and a wonderful showcase of the beauty of Istanbul and Cappadocia.
Kedi (2016)
This heartwarming documentary follows Istanbul’s beloved street cats, showing the city through the eyes of its feline residents.
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