Anam Cara Travel

30/04/2026

Our pilgrimage began in awe and wonder as we stepped into the timeless landscape of Egypt. The day unfolded with a visit to the majestic Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx—enduring witnesses to one of the greatest ancient civilizations. Standing before these wonders, the scale and mystery of history felt almost overwhelming.

We then journeyed into the modern brilliance of the Grand Egyptian Museum (the GEM), a stunning architectural achievement designed by Irish Architects, to house the treasures of a civilisation that continues to captivate the world. The seamless blend of ancient heritage and contemporary design offered a powerful reflection on Egypt’s enduring legacy.

As the day gently turned towards evening, we gathered for Holy Mass in the beautiful Franciscan Church of St. Joseph in downtown Cairo—a moment of peace and spiritual grounding at the heart of a vibrant city.

We ended our first day along the banks of the Nile, enjoying relaxed drinks as the sun set over this ancient river, before sharing dinner together. Looking forward to exploring more of old Cairo tomorrow…

01/04/2026

Our recent pilgrimage journey began in the luminous beauty of Tbilisi, a city where balconies draped over cobbled streets and ancient churches rise amid a tapestry of cultures, quietly proclaiming Georgia’s identity as one of the world’s earliest Christian nations.

From there, we journeyed through a land where faith is etched into the very rock, ascending to the hilltop sanctuary of Jvari Monastery, where the first Christian cross once stood, and standing in awe within Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, revered as the burial place of Christ’s robe. Deeper still, we entered the haunting cave city of Vardzia, its labyrinth of chapels and frescoes whispering the prayers of centuries. At every turn, monasteries clung to cliffs or rested in serene valleys, their timeless liturgies carried on the caucus mountains air, inviting us into a silence that was anything but empty.

This was no ordinary journey; it was a passage through living history, where the witness of saints and the endurance of faith transformed each step into an encounter with the sacred, set against the spellbinding beauty of Georgia’s landscapes & the formidable Caucus Mountains.

Will you be on our next Georgian journey?

23/10/2025

03/09/2025

20/10/2024

In preparation for the 1700 anniversary of the First meeting of the Council of Nicaea in 325, we have included additional visits to the many archeological sites of western Turkey for our clients visiting during 2025. A reminder of the Seven Churches of Revelation .

In the Book of Revelation, chapters 2-3, John writes letters to seven early Christian churches in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). Each church represents a different spiritual condition, offering lessons that are still relevant today:

1. Ephesus – Known for their hard work, but had "lost their first love" for Christ. 🔥❤️

2. Smyrna – Endured persecution and remained faithful. A model of steadfastness. 💪🏽👑

3. Pergamum – Stood firm in faith, but compromised with worldly practices. ⚖️🌍

4. Thyatira – Growing in love and service but tolerated false teachings. 🕊️🔍

5. Sardis – Spiritually dead despite their outward appearance of life. ⛪💀

6. Philadelphia – Faithful in weakness and held firm to God's Word. 🌟🔑

7. Laodicea – Lukewarm in faith, neither hot nor cold. Called to repent. 💧🔥

Each message challenges us to assess our own faith journey. Which church do you most relate to? 🤔

26/11/2023

St. Mark, the author of the Gospel of Mark in the New Testament, is believed to have spent a significant part of his life in Egypt, contributing to the establishment of Christianity in the region. While historical details can be challenging to verify, tradition holds that Mark traveled to Alexandria in Egypt, and played a crucial role in spreading the Christian faith.

According to early Christian accounts, Mark arrived in Alexandria in the mid-first century, possibly around AD 49, and began preaching the Gospel. His teachings attracted a following, and he is said to have performed miracles, including healing the sick. Tradition & faith also inform that Mark founded the Church of Alexandria, becoming its first Bishop.

The most well-known episode from St. Mark's life in Egypt is the story of him converting a cobbler named Anianus. Mark is said to have miraculously healed Anianus, leading to his conversion, and subsequently, the establishment of the Church in Alexandria.

St. Mark's time in this ancient land was not without challenges. He faced opposition from local pagan priests, and his efforts to spread Christianity were met with resistance. Despite these obstacles, he persevered in his mission.

St. Mark is often associated with the creation of the Coptic Orthodox Church. The Coptic tradition asserts that Mark introduced Christianity to Egypt and laid the foundation for the Coptic Christian community, therefore, its first Patriarch.

Tragically, St. Mark's life came to a violent end. Around AD 68, during the festival of Serapis in Alexandria, a mob seized Mark, dragged him through the streets, and eventually martyred him by tying him to a horse's tail. His remains were later interred in the Church he had founded.

St. Mark's legacy in Egypt is profound, as he is not only remembered as a gospel writer but also as a missionary who played a crucial role in the early spread of Christianity in the region. The Coptic Church continues to venerate St. Mark, and his influence is evident in the rich Christian heritage of the country. The seat of the Coptic Pope is referred to as the See of St Mark.

25/11/2023

Did you know: The monasteries of Wadi el Natrun, located in northern Egypt, are significant for their historical and religious importance. They form a cluster of ancient Christian monastic communities, dating back to the 4th century. These monasteries played a crucial role in the development of Christian monasticism and have preserved valuable manuscripts, architecture, and traditions over centuries. They are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer insights into the early Christian ascetic lifestyle in the Egyptian desert. We are looking forward to welcoming our tour groups to these Monasteries in 2024!

17/04/2022

To all our friends around the world, we wish each of you a blessed Easter.

May the glory and the promise of this joyous time of year bring peace and happiness to you and those you hold most dear.

17/03/2022

Happy St Patrick's Day to all our friends from throughout Ireland and Britain! Hope you all enjoy a great day.

St Patrick's Breastplate
Christ be with me,
Christ be beside me,
Christ be before me,
Christ be behind me,
Christ be at my right hand,
Christ be at my left hand,
Christ be with me everywhere I go,
Christ be my friend for ever and ever.
Amen.

16/03/2022

This year, we will be celebrating St Patrick's Day in Naples, Italy!

Our office is located in the Catholic Diocese where the young Patrick spent his first few years following his kidnap to our shores. Our Diocese is also home to his grave in Downpatrick in County Down.

We share this video presented by the Diocese of Down & Connor, for all our friends and look forward to welcoming you soon.

Wishing all our family and friends around the world, a joyous day during these uncertain times.