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Silk Road by Private Jet

  • October 23 – November 8, 2026
$74,999

per person based on double occupancy

  • DURATION

    17 Days
  • GROUP SIZE

    70

overview

Retrace the footsteps of ancient traders on an exclusive private jet journey of the legendary Silk Road, where East and West converged for centuries through trade, culture and discovery. This meticulously curated tour takes you to vibrant cities, remote landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage treasures that once welcomed merchants, scholars and explorers from across the globe. At each destination, delve into centuries-old traditions, witness master artisans at work and experience the enduring legacy of one of history’s greatest trade routes.

tour map

tour highlights

– Discover Venice’s rich artisanal heritage with exclusive visits to Tessitura Bevilacqua, where intricate textiles are woven on centuries-old looms, and Atelier Nicolao, renowned for its exquisite handcrafted costumes that bring the city’s history to life.

– Witness a spellbinding 3D sound and light show in Samarkand's majestic Registan Square—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—followed by a private dinner and dance show.

– Explore the rich history of Bukhara including the iconic Ark Citadel, a fortress of ancient power.

– Settle into Georgia's Tbilisi Caravanserai—once a bustling trading hub and resting point along the Silk Road—for an exclusive sommelier-led wine tasting. Georgia is considered the oldest winemaking country in the world, as confirmed by advanced DNA analysis of archaeological finds including the region’s earliest wild grapevine remnants.

– Embark on a private yacht for a sunset cruise along the Bosphorus, the narrow strait separating Asia and Europe.

– Experience Istanbul’s grandeur with visits to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, followed by an unforgettable Whirling Dervish performance and private cocktail celebration in an underground cistern.

day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in London, England
Day 3: London | Fly to Venice, Italy
Day 4: Venice
Day 5: Venice | Fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan
Day 6: Almaty
Day 7: Almaty | Fly to Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Day 8: Samarkand
Day 9: Samarkand | Fly to Bukhara
Day 10: Bukhara
Day 11: Bukhara | Fly to Tbilisi, Georgia
Day 12: Tbilisi
Day 13: Tbilisi | Fly to Istanbul, Türkiye
Day 14: Istanbul
Day 15: Istanbul
Day 16: Istanbul | Fly to London, England
Day 17: London | Depart for U.S.

full itinerary

Travel with peace of mind. Our private jet experience includes the flexibility to adjust the itinerary and accommodations, if necessary, based on global conditions at the time of departure.

Daily activities will be determined by weather, schedules and various other elements that comprise this robust tour. The itinerary is flexible and represents a general listing of planned activities and excursions.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Friday, October 23, 2026

Day 2: Arrive in London, England

Saturday, October 24, 2026 (R,D)

Upon arrival to London's Heathrow Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure followed by a special welcome reception and dinner this evening.

Day 3: London | Fly to Venice, Italy

Sunday, October 25, 2026 (B,L,D)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to a private terminal and exclusive lounge at London Stansted Airport to board your privately chartered jet.

After take-off share a celebratory welcome toast and become acquainted with the dedicated crew. Get settled in your lie-flat leather seat and plug into in-flight entertainment and convenient charging stations. Pillows, blankets and amenity kits are available for additional comfort.

Lunch will be elegantly served at your seat on fine china accompanied by cutlery and a selection of beverages. (Flight duration: approx. 2 hours and 20 minutes.)

Upon arrival transfer to your five-star hotel to refresh and unpack. Later be treated to an aperitivo at a nearby cafe, and then walk to Doge's Palace for an exclusive tour.

Tonight return to your hotel an enjoy a lovely group dinner.

Day 4: Venice

Monday, October 26, 2026 (B,L,D)

Basilica di San Marco | Marco Polo's Home | Fondazione Rubelli | Palazzo Fortuny

The Republic of Venice played a key role in the Silk Road trade routes that changed the face of Europe—bringing cultural traditions, religions and ideas from the East to the West for the first time in history.

After breakfast join a local guide for a walking tour through the heart of the city, starting at the magnificent Basilica di San Marco—a masterpiece of Italo-Byzantine architecture. Continue through Venice's atmospheric alleys to the historic district where Marco Polo once lived. Conclude this morning's walk at the Rialto Bridge, the city’s oldest crossing over the Grand Canal, offering picture-perfect views of Venice’s timeless waterways and bustling markets.

Next stop for lunch at a local restaurant.

This afternoon's walking tour features a visit to Fondazione Rubelli, a family-run textile company renowned for producing some of the world’s most luxurious fabrics since the 19th century.

Continue to Palazzo Fortuny, a magical space that fuses Gothic Venetian architecture with the creative spirit of the early 20th century. Once the home and studio of Mariano Fortuny—a Spanish-born artist, inventor and textile designer—the museum's rooms now display Fortuny’s innovations in fabric dyeing, lighting design and theatrical staging, with many original works and furnishings preserved.

Return to the hotel with time to refresh before rejoining the group for dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Venice | Fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan

Tuesday, October 27, 2026 (B,L,D)

Tessitura Bevilacqua | Atelier Nicolao

Today discover traditional local craftsmanship in Venice, a city once integral to Silk Road trade route as a vital link between Europe and Asia.

First visit Tessitura Bevilacqua, one of the last remaining workshops still using centuries-old jacquard looms to weave sumptuous velvet fabrics. Watch skilled artisans at work and gain insight into the intricate process of silk weaving.

Continue to Atelier Nicolao, a prestigious costume designer that has been crafting historical garments for opera, film and grand Venetian celebrations since 1980. Learn how the Silk Road influenced Venetian fashion and witness the exquisite detail of handmade period costumes.

Afterward return to your private jet for the flight to Almaty, Kazakhstan, an essential Silk Road hub that served as a meeting point for traders from China, Persia and Europe. Lunch will be served en route. (Flight duration: approx. 6 hours and 45 minutes.)

Upon arrival transfer to your five-star hotel with time to unpack and refresh before gathering for dinner featuring a folk dance performance.

Day 6: Almaty

Wednesday, October 28, 2026 (B,L,D)

Russian Orthodox Ascension Cathedral | Kazakhstan’s Central State Museum | Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel followed by a city tour accompanied by local guides.

Settlements in the greater Almaty area thrived along the Silk Road trade routes from the 10th through the 14th centuries. Learn more about how this fascinating history shaped the city on a day of excursions that include an inside visit at the magnificent Russian Orthodox Ascension Cathedral and Kazakhstan’s Central State Museum. Since opening its doors in 1931, the museum's collection has grown to more than 200,000 historically significant items including ancient stone tools, religious imagery, military artifacts, gold relics and more.

Continue to the Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments. Dating back to 1908, the museum showcases an impressive collection of more than 1,000 traditional instruments—many of which are rare or unique to Central Asia.

As the sun sets this evening experience one of Central Asia’s most ancient and revered traditions—falconry. Gather in a scenic outdoor setting to witness skilled berkutchi (eagle hunters) demonstrate the deep bond between human and raptor, a practice that dates back thousands of years. Watch in awe as majestic golden eagles, falcons and hawks soar through the sky responding to their handlers with remarkable precision.

Day 7: Almaty | Fly to Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Thursday, October 29, 2026 (B,L,D)

Afrasiab Settlement and Museum | Ulugh Beg Observatory | Registan Square | Gur-Emir Mausoleum

After breakfast return to the airport to board your private jet. Today you will journey south to Uzbekistan with refreshments served en route. (Flight duration: approx. 2 hours.)

Situated in the Zeravshan River valley, the fortified city of Samarkand has been at the crossroads of culture and religion more than 2,000 years. This Uzbek gem was also considered one of the most important trading sites on the Silk Road.

Join a local guide for a visit to the Afrasiab Museum near the ancient Afrasiab settlement, which predates the Silk Road era. Afrasiab played a key role in Silk Road trade facilitating the exchange of goods, art and ideas between China, Persia, India and the Mediterranean.

Continue to the Ulugh Beg Observatory—one of the greatest astronomical achievements of the medieval Islamic world. The observatory’s most remarkable feature is its massive sextant, used to measure the positions of celestial bodies with extraordinary precision.

After checking into your hotel, gather at the hotel restaurant for lunch before setting out for Registan Square at the very heart of the city. Here, a tile artisan will provide a live demonstration of traditional restoration techniques showcasing the craftsmanship that made Samarkand an architectural masterpiece.

Later see the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, an iconic architectural masterpiece from the Timurid era and the final resting place of Tamerlane (Amir Timur), the legendary 14th-century conqueror (and grandfather of Ulugh Beg who also rests within the mausoleum).

Tonight join together at a restaurant in the city for dinner highlighted by a fashion show.

Day 8: Samarkand

Friday, October 30, 2026 (B,L,D)

Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis | Bib-Khanym Mosque | Siab Market | Konigil Village Paper Mill | Khujum Silk Carpet Factory

Today explore the cultural traditions and archaeological wonders of Samarkand.

First visit Shakhi-Zinda necropolis, a collection of mausoleums and tombs spanning over nine centuries.

Continue to Bib-Khanym Mosque. Constructed between 1399 and 1404, this monumental structure was designed to celebrate Tamerlane's victorious campaigns in India and to serve as a spiritual center for his empire.

Just steps from Bib-Khanym Mosque is Siab Market—a colorful bazaar featuring a diverse array of local delicacies including fragrant spices, dried fruits, traditional Uzbek bread, sweets and pastries, and a vast array of handcrafted goods.

Visiting Konigil village's paper mill, learn about the once-lost art of Samarkand silk paper-making, revived using sustainable methods. See the entire handcrafted production process, from soaking and beating the mulberry bark to drying and polishing the paper on stone slabs.

After lunch in the village, tour the Khujum Silk Carpet Factory. This facility is dedicated to the ancient art of silk carpet weaving, a tradition recognized and protected by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The day's grand finale is a mesmerizing sound and light display at Registan Square, where vibrant projections illuminate the intricate facades of the madrasas—enjoyed from an exclusive private seating vantage point. Afterward continue to a nearby restaurant for dinner featuring live dance performances.

Day 9: Samarkand | Fly to Bukhara

Saturday, October 31, 2026 (B,L,D)

Ismail Samani Mausoleum | Ark Citadel | Bolo Hauz Mosque

Early this morning return to your private jet for the flight to UNESCO-listed Bukhara—another historical Silk Road city located on the edge of the Kyzyl Kum and Kara Kum deserts. Merchants have been traveling across Central Asia to trade silk, carpets, gold embroidery, and clothing here for more than 2,000 years. (Flight duration: approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes.)

Stop for lunch before vistiting the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the final resting place of Ismail Samani, founder of the powerful Samanid dynasty.

Continue to the Ark of Bukhara, or Ark Citadel, an imposing fortress that served as the residence of emirs, a military stronghold, and a royal court until the invasion of the Red Army in the early 20th century. Today it's a museum showcasing Bukhara’s regal history featuring exhibits on weaponry, coinage, manuscripts and various artifacts.

Across from the Ark Citadel stands Bolo Hauz Mosque, which served as the official place of worship for the emir and his court. Built in 1712, the mosque's most distinctive feature is its 20 column entrance portico that reflects beautifully in the adjacent water reservoir (giving the mosque its name—Bolo Hauz means "children’s pond").

Conclude the day with dinner at your hotel.

Day 10: Bukhara

Sunday, November 1, 2026 (B,L,D)

Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace | Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble | Magoki Attori Mosque | Trading Domes of Bukhara | Kalyan Complex

Following breakfast join a guide for an inside tour of Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa palace, a lavish summer residence of Bukhara's last emir, Mohammed Alim Khan. Outside stroll the tranquil gardens and beautifully designed courtyards featuring fountains, marble pathways, ornamental pavilions and lush greenery.

Later meet a local artist dedicated to preserving the tradition of Persian miniature painting, once used to illustrate manuscripts along the Silk Road.

After lunch at a local restaurant board a motor coach that delivers you to the start of your afternoon guided walking tour.

The Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble is one of the most beloved and lively gathering spots in Bukhara. This historic complex consists of three grand structures: the Kukeldash Madrasa, the Nadir Divan-Begi Khanqah and the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasa on the east. Also see the famous statue of Nasreddin Hodja, a legendary folk hero known for his wit and wisdom.

The Magoki Attori Mosque is one of Bukhara’s oldest surviving mosques, with origins dating back to the pre-Islamic era when it was a Zoroastrian temple. Today it houses the Carpet Museum displaying a fascinating collection of traditional Uzbek textiles and antique rugs.

The Trading Domes of Bukhara, also known as the Toki or Tok, were integral to the city’s status as a major Silk Road trading hub. Built in the 16th century during the Shaybanid dynasty, these domed bazaars covered bustling marketplaces where merchants from across the region bartered goods.

Next tour the Kalyan Complex, or Poi-Kalyan—one of Bukhara’s most iconic settings featuring a grand minaret, a stunning mosque and a historic madrasa. This complex has served as the spiritual and religious center of the city for over nine centuries. The massive courtyard, flanked by 208 domed galleries, creates a tranquil and awe-inspiring setting for prayer.

There will be time to explore independently before returning to the hotel.

Day 11: Bukhara | Fly to Tbilisi, Georgia

Monday, November 2, 2026 (B,L,D)

Metekhi Church of the Assumption | Abanotubani | Narikala Fortress | Sioni Cathedral | Tbilisi Caravanserai

Board your private jet for the flight to Tbilisi, Georgia’s vibrant capital, including lunch service en route. (Flight duration: approx. 3 hours.)

During an afternoon guided tour, visit a few of Tbilisi's historical highlights. It's believed that the Caucasus branch of the Silk Road ran through this region around the 6th century.

Perched on a cliff above the Mtkvari River, Metekhi Church of the Assumption is one of the most significant landmarks in Tbilisi. Over the centuries, the church has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times and served not only as a church but also a fortress and even a prison during the Soviet era.

Continue to Abanotubani, Tbilisi’s Sulfur Bathhouse District. The baths were frequented by royalty, Silk Road traders, and artists and poets including Alexander Pushkin, who famously praised them in his writings.

Dominating Tbilisi’s skyline is Narikala Fortress—an ancient stronghold that has protected the city since the 4th century, when it was originally built by the Persians. Ascend to the top by cable car for stunning views over the city.

Today's final stop includes an inside visit of Sioni Cathedral. One of Tbilisi's most revered churches and pilgrimage destinations, the cathedral houses the Sacred Cross of St. Nino, the 4th-century evangelist who brought Christianity to Georgia.

This evening step inside the historic Tbilisi Caravanserai for an exclusive wine tasting experience inside its captivating wine museum. Guided by a knowledgeable sommelier explore Georgia’s ancient winemaking traditions—some of the oldest in the world—while savoring a curated selection of fine local wines.

Day 12: Tbilisi

Tuesday, November 3, 2026 (B,L,D)

Jvari Monastery | Svetitskhoveli | Uplistsikhe | Georgian National Museum

Today visit two sacred sites—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites—tied to the origins of Christianity in Georgia.

Jvari Monastery, meaning "Monastery of the Cross," was built in the 6th century on the very site where St. Nino erected a wooden cross in the 4th century. The monastery became a major pilgrimage destination, attracting believers who came to see the miraculous cross, which was believed to have healing and protective powers.

According to legend, Svetitskhoveli (which is a Georgian phrase meaning "the Life-Giving Pillar") is the burial site of Christ’s robe worn during the crucifixion. This UNESCO-designated landmark was also a popular pilgrimage site on the Silk Road.

Continue to Uplistsikhe, an ancient rock-hewn city and a significant archaeological site. This remarkable settlement dates back to the 1st millennium BCE and was a thriving political, religious and cultural center for nearly 2,000 years. The city features a labyrinth of caves, tunnels, pagan temples, a royal palace, wine cellars and even an ancient pharmacy.

Those who are interested may join an optional visit to the Georgian National Museum to peruse intriguing exhibits that highlight local craftsmanship and cultural traditions. The museum's vast collection contains objects and artifacts including various kind of ceramic and china, weapons, musical instruments, numismatics, and textiles and household accessories from as far back as the Bronze Age.

Day 13: Tbilisi | Fly to Istanbul, Türkiye

Wednesday, November 4, 2026 (B,L,D)

Enjoy breakfast before returning to the airport to board your private jet destined for Istanbul featuring two days of guided exploration of the city's rich mosaic of culture and history. En route take the opportunity to relax, recharge and reflect on recent sites and experiences with fellow travelers. Enjoy lunch and refreshments at your seat or in the company of others at the stand-up bar and lounge. (Flight duration: approx. 2 hours and 40 minutes.)

After checking into the property rejoin the group at the hotel pier where you'll step aboard a private motor yacht for an unforgettable sunset cruise along the Bosphorus, the legendary strait that serves as Istanbul’s lifeline. As the golden light reflects off the water, glide past a panorama of ornate palaces, restored Ottoman mansions, towering fortresses and elegant waterfront residences. Sip on refreshments as you take in the ever-changing skyline, experiencing Istanbul from a vantage point once admired by travelers for centuries. A Byzantine visitor in the 12th century aptly described Istanbul as “the city of the world’s desire”—and from the Bosphorus it’s easy to see why.

Day 14: Istanbul

Thursday, November 5, 2026 (B,L,D)

Spice Market | The Hippodrome | Blue Mosque | Hagia Sophia | Grand Bazaar | Whirling Dervish Ceremony

After breakfast set out for guided panoramic tour of Istanbul's cultural highlights stopping first at the Spice Market— a labyrinth of alleys lined with traditional Turkish goods like herbs, dried fruits, nuts, teas and sweets. Continue to a nearby shop for tasting of Turkish delight and traditional Turkish coffee.

Visit The Hippodrome—once the grand center of public life and entertainment in the Byzantine Empire. The Hippodrome was primarily used for chariot races, and several of the surviving monuments that were part of the ancient racetrack can be seen including The Obelisk of Thutmose III, The Serpent Column, The Walled Obelisk, The Fountain of Wilhelm II (added in the 19th century by the German emperor).

Next see the iconic Blue Mosque, renowned for its stunning blue tiles and towering minarets. Learn about its construction during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I in the early 17th century and its significance as one of Istanbul's most important religious landmarks.

Proceed to the Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and architectural marvel that has served as a church, mosque and museum over the centuries.

After lunch continue to the Grand Bazaar to stroll its sprawling network of more than 4,000 shops. The increased demand for luxury goods and grain drew traders from throughout the Middle East and Asia to Istanbul's sumptuous bazaars and marketplaces, marking the end of the Silk Road trade route in the West.

Before dinner gather for a one-of-a-kind experience—a Whirling Dervish Ceremony in the underground Serefiye Cistern, considered to be one of the oldest water structures in the Historical Peninsula of Istanbul dating back nearly 1,600 years. This ritualistic dance, performed by the Mevlevi Order of Sufi Islam, is both an artistic expression and a deeply spiritual act. Flickering candlelight and echoing Sufi music create a mystical atmosphere amidst this private cistern setting.

Day 15: Istanbul

Friday, November 6, 2026 (B,D)

Topkapi Palace Museum | Various Excursion Options

This morning visit Topkapi Palace Museum, the opulent complex that was both Imperial offices and the residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. Today it's impressive museum featuring displays of Chinese porcelain, calligraphy section plus lavish chambers including the Harem, Imperial Council Chamber, the Treasury and many more.

Following lunch on your own at the hotel the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Relax at the hotel, explore independently or choose to join one of the following optional activities (no additional fees).

Grand Bazaar Historic Roof Tour: From the rooftop vantage point, admire the vast and varied views over the city. During the 20-minute walk take advantage of fantastic photography opportunities to capture the contrasting light and colors, domes, skyscrapers, seas and bridges.

Hürrem Sultan Hamam Turkish Bath: Discover the ancient traditions of Hamam bathing. On our exclusive tour you will visit the famous Hurrem Sultan Hamam, dating from the 16th century and designed and built by Mimar Sinan, the chief Ottoman architect and enjoy the worldwide famous Turkish bath experience.

Ebru Turkish Marbling Workshop: Get an up-close look at this centuries-old art form where delicate swirling patterns float on water before being masterfully transferred onto paper or fabric. This intricate technique involves floating pigments on the surface of a water bath treated with a special thickening agent, allowing artists to manipulate the colors into delicate, marbled designs using combs, brushes and fine-tipped tools. Historically this art of marbling was only transferred to paper but now these glorious patterns can be transferred to many kinds of surfaces including leather, glass, furniture and book covers.

Pera, Galata and Cukurcuma Tour: Pera and Galata are two of the oldest neighborhoods in Istanbul. These districts became important cultural centers in the late 80's and 90's. Explore the varoius local boutiques, musical instrument shops, and cafés and restaurants. Continue to Cukurcuma, whose history dates back five centuries, to see Istanbul's best antique stores.

Fener and Balat Tour: Formerly Istanbul’s Greek Orthodox and Jewish neighborhoods, Fener and Balat are known for their aged but beautiful houses and charming churches. Recently the area has garnered fresh interest for new businesses, with stores opening up regularly.

Tonight celebrate this extraordinary adventure touring the Silk Road during a special farewell dinner at a private venue featuring magnificent view of the Bosphorus. Feast on traditional Turkish cuisine while dining poolside along the property's waterfront. As the sun sets, enjoy sea views while sharing stories and memories of this magnificent journey fellow travel companions.

Day 16: Istanbul | Fly to London, England

Saturday, November 7, 2026 (B,L)

After breakfast return to the airport to board your private jet one final time for the return flight to London. Delight in lunch, convivial camaraderie and a traditional English afternoon tea service during the journey. (Flight duration: approx. 4 hours.)

Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Day 17: London | Depart for U.S.

Sunday, November 8, 2026 (B)

Following breakfast guests departing during the suggested times will take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Inclusions

  • 15 nights accommodations at deluxe hotels
  • Airfare for 7 flights aboard the private aircraft featuring experienced flight crew of 2 pilots, flight manager, engineer, chef and cabin crew
  • A special welcome reception, 15 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 14 dinners including a farewell dinner
  • 21 expert-led excursions
  • Full guiding services of a team of Orbridge Expedition Leaders
  • Expertise and insight from a Silk Road scholar throughout the tour
  • All excursion transportation and entry fees
  • Processing fees for our preferred provider's visa services (price of visas are not included)
  • $100,000 medical evacuation insurance for covered reasons
  • All gratuities

rates

Category Rate*
Business Class Double: $74,999
Business Class Single: $84,999

To complete the Guest Information Form for this program, click here.

*Rates are per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Round-trip airfare from/to the U.S. not included. 

Travel Insurance

We recommend you look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. It's important to note that some coverage can be linked to timing of your initial payment.

Orbridge's travel insurance partner, Redpoint, has a specific policy option to meet your needs. Visit redpointtravelprotection.com/partner/orbridgeripcord for a quote and more information. To speak with a Redpoint agent directly, call (415) 481-0610 and their team will be glad to assist.

Booking Flights

Our air partners can make flight arrangements for guests. In the event of flight delays and/or schedule changes, they will provide guests with personalized assistance. To book flight reservations with our air partners, contact (206) 319-5011 and select the option for your destination to discuss flight details with our air colleagues. Upon ticketing, a fee will be charged.

your guide(s)

Orbridge Travel Director Team

Our premier team of Orbridge Travel Directors will accompany you throughout this journey. Each director is highly trained and offers a wealth of knowledge and experience as a guide.

Enriched by their insight and enthusiasm, enjoy the cultures and locations you explore with added confidence, understanding and appreciation.