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Travel the World with us
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Dear Travelers,
As we bid farewell to summer and welcome the fall, we would like to extend our warmest wishes for a wonderful Labor Day weekend. This time of year serves as a reminder to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who work diligently, both behind the scenes and on the front lines. Their commitment and sacrifices are invaluable and do not go unnoticed. We celebrate their unwavering spirit and exceptional work ethic, recognizing the essential role they play in our communities and industries. Let's honor their efforts and take a moment to appreciate the hard work that drives our society forward.
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As I am preparing to lead our ANGOLA trip in early October, I am super excited to be on the road again and especially to discover such an enigmatic destination and visit its remote tribes. The thrill of returning to Africa is always overwhelming me. The great news is that already our Angola tour of Jun 03 - Jun 14, 2025 is almost sold out as well. Join us on this adventure which is led by Michel Behar. | |
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Another destination that has continuously intrigued hard-core adventurer travelers is IRAQ. Home to iconic civilizations such as the Babylonians, the Sumerians, the Akkadians, and the Assyrians, Iraq boasts breathtaking sites that ignite the imagination and ensnare the soul. The rich historical tapestry of this region offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore ancient ruins and vibrant cultural heritage.
Additionally, Iraq provides a direct and intimate encounter with the core denominations of the Islamic faith, showcasing impressive holy sites and monuments that grace its storied cities. The interplay of historical significance and spiritual depth creates a compelling backdrop for any explorer.
As our October 2024 tour is sold out, we invite you to consider joining one of our upcoming excursions: Apr 02 - Apr 19, 2025, led by Prof. Miklos Sarkozy, or Oct 17 - Oct 31, 2025 tour, which is almost sold out and is led by Dr. Barbara A. Porter. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in the fascinating history and culture of Iraq.
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As our September 2024 tour is ready to head out to the beautiful INDIAN OCEAN ISLANDS that combine the Maldives, then into Seychelles, then Mauritius, then Reunion, and ending in Mayotte and Comoros, we already are half-way full for our upcoming one Sep 10 - Oct 03, 2025 tour. The tour is intended to offer a glimpse of the unique characteristics of some far-flung Island nations. This tour will have a relaxed and slow-paced style, given the isolation of the islands and their intimate connection to nature. Starting in the Maldives, which is often described as a "tropical paradise" because of its striking beauty, unrivaled elsewhere in the region scattered over many small islands, wherein the sea comprises 99% of its territory! In Seychelles, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage site referred to as the original "Garden of Eden." Located on the granitic island of Praslin, the Vallée de Mai is a vast area of palm forest that has remained largely unchanged since prehistoric times. Dominating the landscape is the world's largest population of endemic palms and many endemic fauna species. While in Reunion, you will marvel at one of the world’s most active volcanos and the highest peak of the Indian Ocean, as Reunion shares many similarities with Hawaii. Mauritius is famous for its vibrant multicultural population since it was at the crossroads of maritime trade and discoveries since the Arab times and through the Middle Ages, where Indians, Dutch, French, and English claimed to control. Its commonality with the Indian subcontinent stems from the Europeans bringing in Indian labor to harvest and plant. Finally, the last territory to explore on this tour is the nation of the Comoros Islands. This alluring nation offers you a chance to explore this little-known archipelago which is home to active volcanoes, lush forests, and pristine coral reefs and has great historical significance – from ancient Persian colonizers to Indian sailors, and with a deep African connection, it will be a great addition to your repertoire of explored far-flung corners of the earth.
Additionally, we are now offering tours to a nearby Indian Ocean Paradise: the first one is Zanzibar, and we are offering this charming island that belongs to Tanzania on two different dates: Oct 03 - Oct 06 OR Oct 11 - Oct 14, 2025. Zanzibar, with its 2000 years history, will introduce you to the multicultural influences and intricate carved doors of Stone Town, the main island’s old trading hub that’s still full of antique shops and bazaars. The archipelago’s smaller islands are ideal for snorkeling among dolphins and spotting giant Aldabra tortoises, while the countryside is home to spice farms and indigenous Swahili culture. Sandwiched between our two possible Zanzibar trips is an opportunity to visit the largest of the Indian Ocean island/nations; the second one is Madagascar from Oct 03 - Oct 11, 2025. That island is a diverse country with 18 official ethnic that form the Malagasy people. The largest group is the Merina, ancestors of Borneo in Indonesia, thus having Southeast Asian features. Most know Madagascar for its large population of lemurs, which includes around 103 species and subspecies, but it is also home to many other endemic animals found nowhere else on earth, such as the fossa as well as two-thirds of the world’s chameleon species. Over 40 mammal species and 60 reptile species were just recently discovered. The country boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and over 40 national parks, protected areas, and nature reserves. This tour highlights Andasibe-Mantadia National Park.
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Our incredible tour to AFGHANISTAN, a fascinating country with a majestic mix of spectacular madrassas, exquisite mosques, and shrines, and some of the world's most wonderful examples of Islamic architecture will captivate your imagination. The Valley of the Giant Buddhas of Bamiyan, the Turquoise lakes of Band e Amir as well as the religious center of Mazar e-Sherif with its astonishing shrine of Imam Ali and the ancient city of Herat along with Kabul will open your eyes to a hidden gem. Additionally, meeting this captivating population, which has always been hospitable to its guests. Join us on one of the following tours and do not miss the opportunity: May 22 - Jun 05, 2025, led by Prof. Miklos Sarkozy - who led for years our Afghanistan tours OR Sep 29 - Oct 13, 2025, led by Nancy Weber, our capable tour manager who also led many tours with us to Afghanistan. | |
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For centuries, SAUDI ARABIA has remained shrouded in mystery to outsiders, but a new dawn is emerging. Spearheaded by the visionary leadership of Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, affectionately known as MBS in the West, the Kingdom is embracing a transformative journey towards openness. Foreign travelers are now greeted with warmth and hospitality, welcomed to explore the diverse tapestry of Saudi Arabia. From enchanting prehistoric petroglyphs to monumental ancient tombs, the Kingdom beckons with a treasure trove of attractions. Delight your senses with a culinary journey through outstanding cuisine, wander through medieval oasis villages frozen in time, and marvel at futuristic skyscrapers defining the Saudi skyline.
The crown jewel of Saudi Arabia, "Madain Saleh," often dubbed the Petra of Arabia, stands as a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage. The tour extends beyond these renowned landmarks to unveil the heart of Saudi life — bustling bazaars, sacred mosques resonating with centuries of prayers, and landscapes that shift between the majestic and the surprisingly varied. Gone are the age-old restrictions, as even the holy city of Medina now extends a welcoming hand to foreign visitors. Delve into the sacred grounds of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, immersing yourself in the spiritual aura that encapsulates the city.
Embark on an unforgettable journey on one of our two upcoming tours in 2025: Feb 10 - Feb 23, 2025, led by a delightful scholar whom we are now so happy to have him lead several of our tours: Ian Shearer OR our Oct 22 - Nov 04, 2025, led by Prof. Miklos Sarkozy.
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We have also decided to offer THE ARABIAN GULF that can be combined with our Saudi tours, home to a range of dazzling destinations, each offering its own unique allure. Experience the glitzy city of Dubai, renowned for its magnificent skyscrapers and luxurious accommodations. You will be awestruck by modern marvels such as the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and indulge in retail therapy at the extravagant Dubai Mall. Journey to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, to gain insight into Arabia's rich history. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Corniche, where panoramic views of the city's skyline await.
Your adventure concludes in Oman, where you will venture off the beaten path to discover this hidden gem. Experience Oman’s natural beauty, ancient traditions, and warm hospitality, allowing you to create memories that will last a lifetime. Dates are Jan 29 - Feb 10, 2025 and Nov 05 - Nov 17, 2025. Each encounter during this journey will leave a lasting imprint on your experience.
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At Spiekermann Travel, one of our standout destinations that continues to captivate our clients is none other than Pakistan. That is why we have several tours to PAKISTAN in 2025 that allow you to choose from. Unveil the wonders of this vibrant nation through our meticulously crafted tour that showcases the best of both its northern and southern regions. In the north, traverse the legendary Karakorum Highway and behold the majesty of the Hindu Kush Mountain range. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Pakistan, with a visit to the enchanting Hunza Valley that promises unparalleled natural beauty.
Journeying to the southern part of the country, explore the ancient civilization of the Indus Valley. Embark on a cultural odyssey that begins in Karachi along the Arabian Sea and culminates in the historic city of Lahore. Along the way, marvel at a plethora of architectural marvels, sacred sites, and traces of Hindu and Buddhist heritage that dot the landscape.
For those seeking a unique experience, don't miss our exclusive May tour to the Kalash Valley in Western Pakistan. Explore the fascinating traditions of the region and participate in the vibrant Chitral festival, where you can witness the colorful rituals of the indigenous pagan tribes. You can choose our South only tour Apr 03 - Apr 17, 2025, attending the Kalash festival May 09 - May 24, 2025, covering only the North May 17 - Jun 02, 2025 OR covering from the very north at the Chinese border to the very south Oct 13 - Nov 07, 2025.
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Another adventure that always captivated visitors with its gamut of historical places, archaeological marvels, fabulous Mediterranean cuisine, excellent wines, beautiful seafood, ancient sites, and stunning topography is CYPRUS. Our Apr 21 - May 12, 2025 tour that is combined with MALTA and GREECE has been filling up nicely. Cyprus is a one-week tour that suffices to cover all its treasures from Monasteries to churches, from ancient ruins and small quaint villages to spectacular mountains and beaches. The tour usually covers the Greek side of the Island as well as its Turkish side. Our guides and drivers are some of the top operatives we have ever worked with, and every client who returned is thrilled at the experience. The weather there is glorious in spring so join us on the visit of such 3 beautiful Mediterranean countries. | |
Another amazing European journey covers the MOSAIC OF THE BALKANS (Sep 27 - Oct 13, 2025). Next year our tour will be led by Professor Norman Jones, whose expertise and knowledge will enhance this trip for its participants. Albania is the true hidden gem of the Adriatic region and the Balkans peninsula. It is a country offering an amalgam of many civilizations and combines several of the marvels and wonders of Greece and Turkey blended together. As for the amazing cultural mosaic of the Balkans’ region and its diverse ethnic fabric, combined with its historical importance and natural beauty, it offers you a glimpse into Europe’s least explored countries such as Albania, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Slovenia, Kosovo, Bosnia & Herzegovina. This strikingly beautiful region is home to an eclectic mix of people: ethnically, geographically and religiously. It is radiant in the early summer and early fall months, when its acacia forests are flowering. Its famous coastline is dotted with sleepy villages on turquoise bays. Its rugged interior mountains are home to ancient Christian monasteries and churches, spectacular lakes and waterfalls. Visit Roman ruins, medieval churches, fortresses and monasteries, colorful old Turkish bazaars, Ottoman citadels and mosques, and Austro-Hungarian town, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. | |
Finally, one of the favorite tours we offered in the past and next month will be heading there again with a few travelers is our tour to ROMANIA, BULGARIA, MACEDONIA AND NORTHERN GREECE, Sep 27 - Oct 12, 2025, a route that is filled with beautiful villages, and an abundance of colorful monasteries and churches culminating in the highly perched monasteries of Meteora in Northern Greece. The focus of this tour will be the dramatic mountain scenery and exquisite jewel-like villages, farms, churches and monasteries of the four countries visited. This simple, agrarian way-of-life is a vestige of the culture that once dominated the continent but has virtually disappeared in Western Europe. Expect to be entertained by craft traditions, folk music and dance. The towns are equally impressive; most of the overnight stops are in medieval walled burgs built by Saxon settlers. Romania is noted for its vineyards and interesting cuisine, heavily influenced by Hungarian specialties. Continue on to Bulgaria, one of the smallest countries of the Old Continent but with a wealthy history in the Balkan region. From settlement on top of settlement Bulgaria is a repository of ancient sites from many civilizations that inhabited the region through millennia. Buffeted by Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman influences and dotted with beautiful lakes, threaded together by a network of rivers, Macedonia is a repository of history surrounded by beautiful scenery. In Northern Greece, you will discover grandiose archaeological sites, picturesquely labyrinthine villages, and the great city of Thessaloniki, famous for its dazzling Byzantine heritage, outshone only by that of Constantinople (Istanbul) itself. | |
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We strongly encourage you to browse our WEBSITE to see the details of the various tours we have to offer. In this newsletter we just wanted to focus on some of a few of the tours planned for 2025.
Thank you once again for your interest in our journeys and we look forward to serving you as always.
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Wishing you a great Labor Day, and ask you please to let us know how we can assist you with future tours.
Sincerely,
Ihab Zaki, Managing Director
and Spiekermann Travel Team
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Spiekermann Travel Service Inc.
18421 E. Nine Mile Rd.
Eastpointe, MI 48021
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