18 - 30 September 2010

Ukraine is a remarkably beautiful country with a rich, tumultuous history and ever-vibrant culture. Today, Ukraine is at a fascinating point in its development, a few short years since the bloodless Orange Revolution that proved to be a watershed moment for the nation's self confidence and optimism. This tour looks at the many cultural and historical sites in the country, its rich literary and artistic heritage, and the significant developments made in medicine on the Crimean battlefields. You will also enjoy the modern, exciting buzz of its cosmopolitan culture and society. The tour is led by Alex Attewell, an expert on social history and one of the world's leading authorities on Florence Nightingale, and her contribution in the Crimean conflict.

26 September - 9 October 2010

Explore the ancient heart of Central Asia’s evocative Silk Road on this tour to Uzbekistan and intriguing Turkmenistan. The stunning architecture of Uzbekistan's ancient cities links the empires of China and Persia and Turkmenistan’s desert splendours have silently observed the passing of some of history’s most dominant empires. An optional diversion to enigmatic Tajikistan draws you to the abandoned ruins of an ancient city, untouched since its desertion over a millennia ago by a civilisation lost to history. Talks and visits give insight into aspects of contemporary society as well as focusing on some lesser known aspects of the region’s history.

7 - 11 October 2010

Istanbul’s history is richly layered and it is the only city in the world that spans two continents. Follow in the footsteps of Florence Nightingale and see her story come alive with visits to the Selimiye Barracks and the Florence Nightingale Museum and specialist talks. Visit the spectacular Blue Mosque and Aya Sophia and the opulent Topkapi Palace. Explore the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar and the fragrant spice bazaar.

8 - 22 October 2010

Aside from a wealth of dramatic historical sites and sweeping desert panoramas there are many fascinating smaller visits, including the traditional soap factory and hammam (bath house) in Aleppo and the winding streets and hidden courtyards of Damascus. Experience the stillness and complete absence of modernity as you walk along the colonnade at Apamea, through the Dead Cities and at St Simeon’s Monastery. See Palmyra at sunrise and the Sea of Galilee from Umm Qais and hear the Lord´s Prayer recited in the language of Christ in Maaloula. The talks of Lavinia Byrne and local speakers bring the past to life and reveal aspects of contemporary Syria and Jordan.

10 - 22 October 2010

This twelve day cruise takes you to many fascinating destinations in the Mediterranean and North Africa, which are of interest from both an historical and medical point of view. The tour includes several private escorted shore visits, as well as enlightening talks from experienced lecturers, providing context to the cruise and the visits. Enjoy the onboard facilities of the intimate and elegant Azamara cruise ship in the company of like-minded people.

30 October - 14 November 2010

Chile snakes its way down from the driest desert in the world, to vast frozen glaciers in the south, passing via volcanoes, vivid lakes and lush vineyards. This spectacular, ribbon thin country encompasses the most extraordinary range of landscapes, as well as offering superb food, world class wine and challenging golf courses in dramatic settings.

12 - 26 February 2011

Ethiopia has a unique and ancient heritage. It contains the oldest human bones ever discovered, the 3,000 year old city of Axum, the palace of the Queen of Sheba and the 12th century rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, as well as the castles of Gondar. The mountainous landscapes of northern Ethiopia are breathtaking and the culture vibrant and eclectic. The tour is led by Dr Richard Marsh, an expert and author on the contemporary culture and history of Ethiopia.

19 February - 6 March 2011

The end of the earth is a spectacular place. A journey to the southernmost tip of the world takes you from Latin America’s most sophisticated city through the most breathtaking scenery on the planet. Journey through the intoxicating throng of Buenos Aires, to the cosmopolitan colonial city of Salta, to the very edge of the world. Arrive in a land of soaring mountains, vivid blue glaciers and cracking sheets of ice. On the way, you will eat wonderful food and drink fine wines, enjoy gaucho hospitality and gain insight into the Argentine medical system with specialist visits and talks. This tour is led by Professor Robin Wiliamson, President of the Royal Society of Medicine.

19 February - 6 March 2011

Burma is a beautiful and welcoming country with rich layers of culture and history, retaining many old traditions. It is also governed by an oppressive military regime, which has held the democratically elected Aung San Suu Khi under house arrest for more than 11 years and has forcibly displaced thousands of Burmese ethnic minorities. Some advocate boycotting all travel to Burma to protest against the regime, which benefits from package tourism using government run hotels and facilities.

We decided to go ahead with this tour, on our terms. We use only independent hotels, restaurants and facilities, and as always make an effort to get below the surface to meet everyday people and see society as it really is. We also support a local orphanage and school for the blind. We feel that a private tour that exposes the life and experience of the local people can only benefit the Burmese people – who welcome us with open arms. This tour is led by Dr John Richardson.

11 - 23 May 2011

There is only one Cuba. Poised on the brink of profound change as it adapts to the end of the Castro era and the changing face of America, this is a pivotal time in the history of this defiantly communist island. Explore Cuba's music, art, architecture, dance, culture and society in the company of Lavinia Byrne and local specialist speakers. Along the way, enjoy the vivaciousness of its people and the natural beauty of this tropical island.