View this email in your browser 2023 + 2024 Culture Viewfinder News Following 2022's three sensational and very successful tours, Culture Viewfinder returns in 2023 with our proven stalwarts CREATIVE SPIRIT and WINE ARCHITECTURE + GASTRONOMY which both feature an augmented program.
Plus based on the success of our pilot custom Jewish Heritage Tour, this new program will be available by request on an individual, customized tour basis
In 2024 Culture Viewfinder is adding a remarkable NEW tour: Textiles and Fine Craft Designed to celebrate the historic and contemporary achievements of two creative fields that for centuries brought fame to Portugal and are witnessing a modern renaissance. · Designed to correspond with leading international textile events hosted in Portugal; · Exclusive access by invitation to the textile vaults of Portugal's leading museum; · Exclusive visits with curators and leading design mavens. · Introducing charming, local specialty museums, cooperatives, and industries discovered and located in lesser known regions of the country. SAVE THE DATES SEPTEMBER 2023 CREATIVE SPIRIT (September 21-30) WINE ARCHITECTURE + GASTRONOMY (September 30-October 3) Creative Spirit has an added a special visit to the province of Alentejo, and we have enhanced our time in Porto because it is a Design Biennale year! The Wine trip will be as magical as ever, including the addition of a new tour, tasting and rustic lunch at what is arguably the best next generation winery in Portugal. Stay tuned for further announcements!
*Note: The Wine trip is available only as a post-tour option for Creative Spirit registrants-- not a stand alone tour. Participation is limited to a maximum of 14 participants.
Final details and pricing for both tours will be posted shortly.
*Please note that while the published 2022 tours can be used as a general guide for the agenda and pricing, Portugal has increasingly become a destination of desire and indications are that pricing for 2023 has increased subject to both global inflationary trends and increased demand. All efforts are being made to keep increases as minimal as possible.
**For those who have already decided they are coming, we advise you to secure your space(s), for one or both tours, as soon as possible (deposit not required at this stage).
Please contact Culture Viewfinder at info@cultureviewfinder.com Provide the full name and contact information for each participant and you will be contacted with next steps.
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Creative Spirit Overview:
Experience contemporary Portugal through a cultural lens, including rare opportunities for behind the scenes visits to places not open to the public and guided introductions to significant lesser known regions, cultural destinations, restaurants, regional wines, and shops.
Beginning September 21, 2023 the 10-day Creative Spirit tour starts in dynamic Lisbon (3 days dedicated to discovering the city through its distinct neighbourhoods and cuisine, and through behind the scenes visits at museums and ateliers).
Next is an introduction to the Alentejo, the 'Breadbasket' of Portugal, abundant with Cork Oak trees, excellent wine and exemplary cultural attractions. On day 5 we move northward to Serra da Estrela, a mountainous national park of outstanding natural beauty, home to an exquisite panorama hotel, and a surprising design destination nestled in a valley. The final leg of our journey is in Porto, Portugal's vibrant and atmospheric second city for 3 days. The programs range from a guided walking tour of the charming historic centre, to the Port Lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia, the seafood port of Matosinhos, intimate visits to early landmark projects by Alvaro Siza, Portugal's most famous architect and enough free time to wander, or take in a choice of Design Biennale exhibitions.
Wine Architecture + Gastronomy (4-day post-tour option) A unique Douro Valley journey including compelling architecture, beautiful wine experience hotels, and fabulous regional wine and cuisine.
Spend a wonderful day with our favourite Douro-based architect, experience the landscapes, tastes, smells, and history of this remarkable region. Capacity 14 participants.
(Wine Architecture + Gastronomy is available only as a post-tour option to participants of the Creative Spirit Tour--not as a stand alone tour.
Culture Viewfinder tours are intentionally capped at a maximum of 18 participants (or fewer as noted).
Visit www.cultureviewfinder.com for detailed itineraries and pricing. Further questions regarding these tours? Write CV at info@cultureviewfinder.com Contact our logistics partners at Ellison Travel and Tours to make your booking. Sandie Vanderschot sandiev@ellisontravel.com or 1.800.265.7022 x 236.