Plague has shaped our world. From ancient times through the Black Death to COVID-19, our medical, economic, culinary, social and art history has been irrevocably influenced by plague.
This tour follows the route of the Black Death through Europe, where it was first introduced by Genovese and Venetian merchants. Travelling through a range of beautiful European cities, each day will focus on a lasting legacy of plague; from marmots to mustard, to perfumes and pleasure, on conspiracies and scapegoats, art, architecture and town planning; learn the myriad ways plague has affected our world.
The tour includes a number of specialist visits, experiences, talks and culinary events, with expert guides and speakers connecting past and present. These experiences are combined with a journey through some of Europe’s most attractive and historic cities with excellent accommodation and opportunities to experience regional wines and cuisine along the way.
Tour leader, Dr Norman Swan, will share expert and insightful commentary along the way.
3 nights Venice – 1 night Bologna – 3 nights Florence - 2 nights Genoa – 2 nights Marseille - 3 nights Lyon – 2 nights Paris – 2 nights London
Dr Norman Swan AM FAHMS is a Scottish-born Australian physician, journalist and broadcaster. Norman trained in medicine and paediatrics in Aberdeen, London and Sydney before joining the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
Based in Australia, Norman hosts Radio National’s (RN) Health Report and during the COVID-19 pandemic, has co-hosted 'Coronacast', a podcast on the Coronavirus. Norman is also a reporter and commentator on the ABC’s 7.30, Midday, News Breakfast and Four Corners, and a guest host on RN Breakfast. He is a past winner of the Gold Walkley Award for Excellence in Journalism and has won other Walkleys, including one in 2020. He created 'Invisible Enemies', on pandemics and civilisation, for Channel 4 UK and subsequently broadcast in 27 countries. Norman has been awarded the medal of the Australian Academy of Science and an honorary MD from the University of Sydney.
His book, 'So You Think You Know What’s Good For You' (Hachette) is an Australian best seller and was recently also released in the UK. His latest book 'So You Want To Live Younger Longer' has also been on the best seller list.
Norman will be accompanied by an English, Italian and French speaking tour manager. There will also be a range of local guides and specialists and curators sharing their expertise throughout the tour.
The cost of the tour is USD $12,152 per person sharing. The cost of the tour is USD $14,774 with a room to yourself.