In 2014 Wanderlust travel magazine named Mongolia its number one emerging destination. I was quite happy as a few months earlier I’d booked a trip to go stay with a local family of Eagle Hunters (they hunt with Eagles, not for them) and to attend a remote local Eagle Festival. It turned out to be an experience I won’t forget for a long time.
Over the centuries, Georgia was the object of rivalry between Persia, Turkey and Russia, before being eventually annexed by Russia in the 19th century. Following the collapse of communism in the USSR in 1991, Georgians voted overwhelmingly for the restoration of independence but it has at times been a rough road to get there.
Situated along the route of the Great Silk Road, Armenia has fallen within the orbit of a number of cultural influences and empires. One of the earliest Christian civilisations, its first churches were founded in the fourth century. In later centuries, it frequently changed between Byzantine, Persian, Mongol or Turkish control, as well as periods of independence.
I’ve visited Lisbon a few times and always enjoyed my time there. Its such an easy city to relax in and with its little hidden tree-shaded squares, amazing food (who doesn’t like the traditional Pastel de Nata!) and sights to see its always high on my list for a weekend getaway!
Myanmar (or Burma as it was previously known) is predominantly Buddhist. Whilst there are other religions Buddhism has been around far longer as evidenced by the many amazing temples, stupas, pagodas and monks you see in the country. Until recently (2010) it was ruled by the military and most the people were very poor. As a result not much as changed and traditional ways are still followed (although I think this will change now)
Most visitors to Turkey stay in the West, visiting Istanbul, Ismir, the South-West on the Mediterranean coast around Antalya or sometimes exploring Cappadocia. Very few people explore further East. But with amazing palaces, bustling bazaars, archaeological sites that have rewritten the book on human settlement and stunning views of Mount Ararat or from the top of Nemrut Dagi there’s lots to see.