Where does our name come from?
Why "El Gran Tour Mexico"?
Many people wonder how and when tourism began, when did people begin to travel for pleasure, rather than for business, or to look for a better place to settle or even flee from wars, invasions, plagues or simply a place where they existed. the appropriate conditions to have a comfortable and relaxed life, away from dangers and constant threats. One of the first manifestations of this was The Grand Tour.
The Grand Tour was a popular custom from the 17th century to the beginning of the 19th century, in which young Europeans of the upper-middle class took a trip through Europe, with Italy as the main destination. This trip, considered an essential part of their education, took place when they came of age, around the age of 21, and they were usually accompanied by a guardian or family member. The term "Grand Tour" was first used in 1670 in the work Voyage d'Italie (The Voyage to Italy) by Richard Lassels, where he described this journey undertaken mainly by young British aristocrats.
The Grand Tour route was very varied, but generally included mandatory visits to France and Italy. Educational motivations, influenced by the fashions of the moment, caused the basic itinerary to change over time. The journey usually began in Calais, from where one traveled to Paris, the cultural center of Europe at that time.
Alternatively, some began their journey in the Netherlands, visiting Belgium (mainly Brussels) before heading to Paris or Germany. Others chose to travel by boat directly to Italy, then returning by land. In Italy, typical stops included Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, Lake Como and finally Naples, the largest city in Italy at the time, where the ruins of Pompeii were also admired.
The trips made during the Grand Tour were often reflected in literary works, such as Englishman Laurence Sterne's "Sentimental Journey through France and Italy" (1767). This book, sentimental in style and very popular, generated a fashion among travelers, especially women, who upon returning published their personal experiences and impressions. Until then, travelogues were usually formal descriptions of the places visited.
Traveling and discovering new and fascinating places has always been attractive for those who enjoy learning about cultures, customs, gastronomy, art, languages and ways of life different from their own. This is often the true travel experience.
We hope that you always enjoy your trips and that you learn something new on each one of them. Rest assured that El Gran Tour México will be a pleasure to accompany you and guide you on your adventure.