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Winter Magic: Exploring Europe in the off-season
As the mercury drops and snowflakes blanket the charming streets of Europe, a unique and captivating atmosphere envelops the continent. While summer may be the popular choice for travelers, venturing to Europe in winter offers its own set of enchanting experiences. From picturesque landscapes to festive markets, let’s explore the pros and cons of traveling to Europe in winter, as well as some must-see attractions and delightful activities to indulge in during the colder months. Winter Travel in Europe: Things to consider: Winter Attractions and Activites: Traveling to Europe in winter unveils a different side of the continent, offering a charming blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and festive merriment. Despite…
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7 Must see amazingly picturesque mountain towns
Be inspired by these seven amazingly picturesque mountain towns that you should be adding to your bucket list right now! 1. Bellagio Not just famous for George Clooney’s hideaway holiday villa! This beautiful little village is located on Lake Como in Italy, with the magnificent Alps in the background. Considered the pearl of Lake Como, it sits on the tip of the lake, where it intersects into three to offer panoramic views of the lake and mountains. The village has picturesque cobblestone streets with shops and restaurants overlooking the lake. When you have had a bite to eat take a stroll around the Villa Melzi and it’s beautiful gardens and…
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Walking the cobblestone streets of Montmartre
Montmartre is my most favourite area of Paris and on my last visit in winter I stayed there for a wonderful ten days. I may be a romantic but to me Montmartre seems to capture the “old” Paris, the Paris where you could easily imagine sitting in a cafe and at the next table is Hemmingway scribbling on papers or a glance out the window and there is Monet, Dali and Picasso working away at their easels. If you are anything like me, then you will find much enjoyment just casually walking through the cobblestone streets of Montmartre, admiring the old buildings, wandering up stairs and capturing glimpses of the magnificent…
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The town Colmar is straight out of a fairytale book
If there ever was a town that makes you feel like you have stepped out of a fairy tale, Colmar would be that town. Literally, Colmar is straight out of a fairytale book. Located in the heart of Colmar is the enchanting “old town” – with its beautifully preserved 9th Century architecture, colourful buildings and little romantic canals, it truly gives you a glimpse of how life may have looked over 1000 years ago. Colmar is not only known for it’s fairytale charm but also for it’s local gourmet produce and beautiful fine wine. I was absolutely enamored by this little part of town and it’s a must see if you…
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A most unusual book shop in Venice
Venice is known for canals, St Marks Square and its mysterious narrow passageways, and through the latter you can make some unique discoveries when you venture off the main path. I did just that and I stumbled upon this unusual bookshop in the area of Castello. The faded sign out the front simply said “Welcome to the most beautiful book shop in the world”. I certainly thought that it has the most beautiful location in the world, so quite intrigued I went in to explore. What I found inside this most unusual book shop in Venice was extraordinary – a confusion of books of every kind, on any topic and…
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Get your hiking boots on and walk the famous Cinque Terre Trail
The Cinque Terre is a spectacular coastal area in the north of Italy that encompasses five charming little villages located at the base of the Cinque Terre National park. The park is a UNESCO world heritage site that strives to work in harmony between both tourism and nature. The Cinque Terre is known for it’s stunning panoramic views that will literally leave you breathless and for the famous hiking trails offering the best viewing points looking out to each village. To really get the most from this area one should really explore the Cinque Terre by foot. So pull on those hiking boots and walk the famous Cinque Terre…
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Budapest the pearl of the Danube
Budapest the pearl of the Danube – as it’s often referred to – would have to be the most underrated city in Europe. Even if you have limited time it’s still quite possible to see a lot in 24 hours in Budapest. I found myself in this exact situation after missing a flight that affected my original plans for Budapest, leaving me with only one day. That’s all it took really, 24 hours and I was hooked! Once you discover Budapest you will be yearning to go back and explore this truly amazing city with a lot more time on your hands. Budapest flanks either side of the Danube…
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The infamous Budapest to Belgrade overnight train
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Europe in summer or winter: the pros and cons
If you are planning on visiting Europe and are undecided about when to go? Then read on for an essential guide on what to expect from visiting Europe in summer or winter. Europe is a popular destination at any time of the year but particularly in the warmer months of summer. With a staggering 563 million international tourists landing in Europe in 2013 alone, it might be a good idea to do a little research about when is the best time to travel. Summer and winter are polar opposites in Europe and tourists who come from milder climates may not have even considered travelling in winter. Your travel plans may…
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Falling in love with the Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi coast is an awe inspiring stretch of coast line located toward the Southern end of Italy. Stunning picture perfect villages that appear to be suspended into the steep cliff faces, dominate throughout this area. With its Mediterranean climate of warm summers and mild winters it’s no wonder it’s a popular destination for both tourists and Italians alike. Lazy summer days spent wining and dining in beautiful outdoor restaurants or just frolicking by the sea. What’s not to love about this lifestyle! Located south of Naples, the area specializes in seafood and lemons along with the fresh local produce which is truly exciting. I don’t know if it is…
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High Tea at the Ritz Hotel London
Afternoon tea or high tea at the Ritz Hotel is a fine affair and this quintessential British experience is one that should not be missed. From the moment you enter this grand, old world hotel you will most certainly feel like royalty, a king or queen for the day. Built in 1906 the hotel was the place to be “seen” for high society’s most glamorous and famous. Even the 1929 hit “Putting on the Ritz” was inspired by the clientele who frequented the Ritz Hotel. The Palm Court is an elegantly decorated room of grand proportions and is meticulously maintained. With marble columns, high gilded ceilings, beautiful birdcage chandeliers and…
