![]() Is it the sea, the strange sense of security, or just that wonderful feeling of escaping from life on the mainland that makes an island break so special? Whatever the exact chemistry, islands make brilliant holiday destinations, and nowhere more so than in the Mediterranean in summer. With the help of our experts, we've created the definitive list for this summer The Mediterranean, or the Med as it’s often abbreviated to, defines a group of twenty-one countries. Each country is unique and has its own distinct culture. With so many different destinations to choose from, it’s not easy deciding which is the perfect one for your getaway break. The tourists make a beeline to the rivieras over here, in the summer season, to sample the Mediterranean Sun, sand, and sea. That said, the best places where one can sample the best of what the Mediterranean Sea has to offer is the Mediterranean islands. Some of the best Mediterranean islands which one can visit are - Santorini (Greece) – This volcanic island is world-famous for its black sand beaches, white houses, blue domes, bazaars, blue sea, etc. It is a place where you can sample some of the best seafood which the Aegean (a sea which is a part of the Mediterranean region) can offer. The ambience of Santorini island is unmatchable. Tourists make it a point to observe the sunset from Santorini as it is a vision that one can never forget. Mykonos (Greece) – This island, also a part of the Cyclades Archipelago like Santorini is famous for its azure blue sea and sandy beaches. The seaside restaurants serving cuisine which includes seafood fresh from the sea is another attraction. Tourists in their bathing suits either swimming or sunbathing is a common sight on the beaches of Mykonos. In the evening the dance clubs are a popular attraction for the visitors as Mykonos is one of the hubs of Electronic Dance Music. Ibiza (Spain) – A part of the Balearic Islands, Ibiza is famous for its nightlife. That said, there are numerous activities in Ibiza like scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, jet boating, etc. for the adventurous streak. Those who wish to indulge in cultural tourism can check out the archaeological sites of Sa Caleta and Puig des Molins too. The Renaissance-era fortified upper town of Ibiza, also known as Alto Vila, is also worth a visit. Ibiza has often been considered a victim of its image as a party destination but, the reality is that parts of Ibiza are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, when here, you are assured to get a sample of a bit of the modern world, the neo-modern world, and also the early modern world. Sardinia (Italy) – This large island is surrounded by azure blue seas and sandy beaches. It consists of historical towns and archaeological sites as well and is a traveler's delight. In comparison to other islands in the Mediterranean, this island offers options like trekking, in the hinterland, as well. The main town of Cagliari is a place popular for shopping on the island. The famous beaches on the island include Chia Beach, Costa Esmerelda, Lu Impostu, etc. The cuisine of Sardinia, to which fresh seafood and wine are integral, is a must-have when visiting the island. These are just four of the many more islands which can be found in the Mediterranean region which offer simply magical experiences. Consult a travel expert so that they can help you with the destination you would like to visit. So, do not think twice. Start preparing for a trip which you would remember for a lifetime!
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![]() Landmarks are landmarks for a reason. Europe, with its centuries of rulers, wars, artwork, and more, as well as the wealth and opulence that came with colonial power, has more than its fair share of landmarks that are recognized not just in their native nations but around the world, and we’ve created a list of the ones you need to make sure you see. With its many dynasties, past and present, Europe’s landmarks are often dominated by castles and palaces. Europe is a continent whose history, art and architecture have made a deep impression on the rest of the world. The world cannot complete its school education without studying the achievements of the ancient Greeks and the Roman Empire. One has found himself to be deeply influenced by the artistic achievements of the renaissance painters and architects. So, it is natural when travelers decide to go to Europe to see the wonders of the Antiquity and Renaissance Age firsthand. That said, Europe has got so many such destinations that it becomes important for one to prioritize as it is not possible to cover all the heritage destinations in one go. So, here are some of the major heritage destinations in Europe worth visiting - Athens – The capital city of Greece, one of the oldest and the most important city-states during the Antiquity period. Its citizens included Aristotle and Plato. Some of the major attractions amongst monuments over here include the Acropolis (which includes the Parthenon, the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, Theatre of Dionysus, etc.). Athens has got some of the best museums in the world and the museum at Acropolis, the National Archaeological Museum, and Byzantine and Christian Museum are some of the famous museums in Greece. Rome – The capital of Italy presently and the capital of the almighty Roman Empire earlier, this old city has got history flowing through its veins. As the political capital of the Roma Empire and later as the Spiritual Center of the Christian World Rome has always occupied center stage in Human Civilization's consciousness. This makes a trip to the city a must, a place which would never run out of attractions. From the Colosseum to the Pantheon, from the mausoleums of Augustus and Hadrian to the Forums Rome has many remains from the Roman Empire. These are some of the popular draws for millions of tourists all over the world. Paris – The capital city of France this historical city has heritage sites spanning from the Middle Ages to the French Renaissance and from the French classical period to the Modern Era. Landmark monuments like the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Cathedral of Saint Chappelle, the Palais de Louvre, the district of Marais, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower are just some of the numerous monuments present in Paris. One can also not forget that Paris is also the home of arguably the world's best painting, the Mona Lisa. These three cities are just three of the many well-preserved historical centers which one can visit in Europe. Cities like Prague, Krakow, London, Barcelona, etc. are also amongst some of the most highly rated heritage sites in Europe. They are frequented by many visitors from across the world. The best part about these sites in Europe is that they are easily accessible by Air and there are plenty of options available for hotels. That said, to get yourselves the best deals you must get in touch with the best travel experts as it is them who will get you the best hotels which are closest to these landmarks and at the best deals possible! ![]() If there is one continent that is the most frequented by tourists and travelers alike, it is Europe. Europe's western part is dotted with historical sites, marketplaces, cultural attractions, and gastronomical experiences. Now, while the common perception about Europe is that it is an expensive destination, numerous backpacker experiences have proved otherwise. Provided our trip is planned in the sense that we have a clear itinerary, we know which transportation passes to take, we are clear on which hostels to stay on the way, we have researched in advance about where to eat, our trip would turn out to be quite an economical and yet adventurous one. Two western European cities which are most popular with backpackers are- Amsterdam – The capital of The Netherlands, this city is known for its canals, cobblestoned streets, coffee shops, the famous Rijksmuseum, and a lot more. Commonly, the city tends to have a cozy vibe. Travelling within the city is easier here as there are numerous shops from where you can hire bikes. Amsterdam Highlights If art and history interest you, then Amsterdam is your place to be. Famous for the Vincent van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Anne Frank House, these sites are a must visit. If you love your drink then you can't miss the Heineken Experience, a historical brewery that is now run as a corporate experience center. If you are visiting this city for a gastronomical experience, then Amsterdam would not disappoint you. One would find numerous cuisines from across the world being served here including the famous coffee shops it brings in legacy. Food Festivals are quite common in Amsterdam which happen all year round. A backpacker has numerous options to stay in Amsterdam as there are many hostels present here apart from hotels. We have given you enough reasons for you to visit this beautiful city which can be done on a shoestring budget. Paris – The capital of France is popularly known as a city of the romantics. Its monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, etc. require no introduction. This city is a must-visit on every backpacker's bucket list. While Paris has got the ability to cater to the wealthiest of travelers through its chic hotels, fashion streets, and Michelin star restaurants, the backpacker also finds that he has numerous options at hand. Paris Highlights Paris is a city which has a lot of museums, but it is Louvre which is the most famous as it houses the most famous painting in the world, the Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci. Montmartre in Paris is famous for lovely pastries and bread at economical prices. France is a country which is world-famous for wine so one cannot miss the numerous food and wine tasting tours being organized here which cater to all budgets. The Rue de Steinkerque is a place where one can shop within a budget. Paris provides numerous options for backpackers to stay including hostels and bed and breakfast accommodations. No wonder backpackers make a beeline to Paris. So, whenever you are thinking of going on a backpacking tour, do not hesitate for a second before zeroing down on Europe. This place has every type of attraction one can think of. All one needs to do is plan well in advance. If the situation arises, do not hesitate before taking the help of travel experts while planning a trip so that they can help you with their expertise and make your trip even more memorable. So, do not wait anymore, start planning now! ![]() The ruins of the city of Mycenae – located in the Peloponnese, in the south of the Greek mainland – represent an entire civilizations that flourished in the second millenium BCE (1000-2000 BCE). And dominated the Greek landscape in times that date back to the fall of Troy. Back to what was ancient history even as the Ancient Greeks, like Homer, were telling stories about it. Have you heard of King Agamemnon? He was a mythical king – and the brother-in-law of the famous Helen of Troy. Who may not have been so Mythical. Mycenae is where he is purported to have ruled. The Mycenaean culture is sort of a pre-Greece to the Ancient Greeks. By the time of Herodotus, this was already long deserted and almost a thousand years old. But, for a long time – long before the dominance of Greek city-states like Athens and Sparta – the Mycenaean culture dominated the Greek mainland. The well-preserved city is, frankly, amazing. Even the Ancient Greeks marvelled at it, crediting the creation of the high stone walls to the Cyclops, because they couldn’t otherwise conceive of how it had been done. The architecture is quite different from that of other Greek ruins. There are no columns here! Rather, Mycenae is made up of huge blocks of stone, and – in ways – bears more resemblance to Machu Picchu than to the Acropolis. There are other benefits to visiting Mycenae, too. Mycenae lies away from the beaten tourist path, which means that visitors will glimpse a part of the country that’s not as familiar with tourists. It’s more authentic, and the people won’t be after getting the most euros out of your wallet; they’ll be genuinely friendly. You can dine out and taste the true flavours of southern Greece. You can buy souvenirs that are truly authentic. Many people come as a day trip from Athens, because the drive only is about an hour and a half. But if you don’t stay closer to this ancient stronghold, you’re really missing out on the experience. Mycenae is well worth at least a full day to visit – not just for the ruined city, but for the joy of exploring the Peloponnese. Stay somewhere closer, like the Apollon Hotel in Argos, a mere 11km south of the ruins. And as you’re coming here – or leaving back to Athens – the ruined city of Corinth is well worth a visit. Yes, it’s the place where Saint Paul was sending his many letters to the “Corinthians”. It’s definitely rich in history – and features prominently in the shared knowledge of Westerners. A visit to Mycenae is truly special. It will be unlike anything else you do in Greece: ancient or modern. So give this ancient-ancient city a chance – and let it amaze you! |
Elena Morris
Great information on some beautiful places Recent Posts
September 2022
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