5 European Destinations Negatively Impacted By ‘Over-Tourism

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 3, 2020

Have you ever wondered what destruction happens to a city or region post a nuclear radiation accident? Are you aware of the Chernobyl Plant and Pripyat city, the site of the nuclear accident situated in the erstwhile USSR? Did you know that there are countless documentaries and movies been made about the Chernobyl disaster? There are countless stories and myths, which abound about Chernobyl. While some say that it was just an accident at a nuclear plant, others point to a warring country being responsible for executing the same. The nuclear accident at Chernobyl happened in the erstwhile USSR era. This was roughly around the same time when the Cold War was raging between Communist USSR and the Western Capitalist world. The stories, myths, controversies have made Chernobyl somewhat of an urban legend. Chernobyl has become so famous that it has been featured in a Netflix series. It has also started attracting audiences and tourists from all over the world, who want to see one of the most significant remnants of our modern history. An Introduction to Pripyat, the city surrounding Chernobyl Visiting Pripyat today we could only imagine that it was a city of opportunity, where almost every resident had a prestigious job and a promising future. This city is located on the Pripyat River, 3 kilometers from the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, has been prosperous and advanced since its foundation. Until April 26, 1986, when the explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant forced more than 300 thousand people to leave their homes due to the threat of radiation. This is how the exclusion zone appeared – an area of 2,600 square kilometers, free of people. Before the Chernobyl incident, Pripyat was one of the most economically developed and bustling cities of the USSR. The trade, commerce, and lifestyle of the people were as good as it could get under a Communist regime. Culturally, Pripyat embodied the best of the USSR. The Chernobyl accident was a major turning point in the fortunes of the city and its inhabitants. The Problems faced by Inhabitants of Pripyat after the Chernobyl Accident Many inhabitants were forced to shift to government camps and medical facilities. They were monitored for radiation and many also faced isolation and therapy. Even after the nuclear winter ended, traces of radiation were found in water, soil, etc. The government could not ever settle inhabitants in the city. Many were forced to migrate thousands of miles to different regions, often starting from scratch. The accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant changed hundreds of thousands of destinies, caused enormous economic damage, and a crushing blow to the nuclear industry. In the shortest possible time, the whole city was to be empty, people were not allowed to take anything except documents. Visiting Pripyat now, we can see how much pain it was for people to leave in a hurry all their property acquired over the years. As Pripyat was a bustling center of trade and commerce, you can still see so many markets, big complexes, theatres, and auditoriums. Many historians have stated that Pripyat was as rich and powerful as Moscow was. However, after the accident, there was just chaos and destruction as far as the eye could see. How Chernobyl looks like today? Here is what you can expect if you visit Chernobyl today Visiting Chernobyltoday is like returning to the distant Soviet Union. Here you can still see elements of communist propaganda, personal belongings scattered on the streets, and abandoned buildings. The hammer and sickle adorn the lanterns on the eve of the May holidays, which were not destined to take place. Toys are scattered across the schoolyard, abandoned by children in the confusion. The clock in the city shows 11:55 – the time of the power outage. Visiting Chernobyl safe is possible with the help of the professional guides, who know all the impressive but at the same time safe places of the abandoned city. Chernobyl visit is available in several options: One-day tour (Includes 27 top locations, lasts for 11 hours including comfortable bus. The price is from 35 euro per person) Two-day tour (Includes 57 top locations, lasts for 36 hours including top comfortable bus. The price is from 95 euro per person) Private tour (No restrictions on the number of locations, no limitation on hours – one, two, or even five days in Chernobyl) Present-day Chernobyl: What is happening? Whatever tour you choose Chernobyl visit will give you an opportunity to see how nature conquers human error. Pripyat turns into a forest. Houses begin to collapse, asphalt turns into moss, houses grow into trees, wide avenues disappear. Visiting Pripyat, it will be interesting to see: Shelter "Sarcophagus". It covers the destroyed Unit 4 to protect the environment from continued exposure to radiation. The Exclusion Zone. Excursions along this area are conducted with visits to local "attractions", museums, and communication with self-settlers. Amusement Park. The official opening of the amusement park was planned for May 1, 1986. Red Forest. It has absorbed a huge dose of radioactive dust. Most of the trees died, and the survivors took on a rusty hue. The Bridge of Death. The townspeople came here to see the burning reactor, not knowing that the radiation level here was one of the highest in the city. Over the past decade, hundreds of thousands of tourists made a visit to Chernobyl and Pripyat. But, believe me, the emotions that you feel when you find yourself in this city cannot be compared with anything. The Final Word If you are someone who is fascinated by Cold War history or seeing the height of Communist Power in the USSR, you will love Chernobyl. Even though the city and the region lie in ruins, there is a quaint romance about the place. Describing how you would feel after visiting Chernobyl is something that even the best travel writers cannot do. Part of the reason is that Chernobyl and Pripyat remain one of those rare places on Earth, which can still give you goosebumps. You have a city, without inhabitants, you have markets without shoppers, and you have buildings without owners. Read Also: 10 Best Places To Visit In Europe Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2025

Funchal, the capital of Madeira Portugal was recently in the news for hosting the European Aquatics Artistic Swimming Championships from 2nd to 5th June in 2025.  However, Madeira, the Atlantic gem, has always been in focus as the home to a unique culture, history, and a beautiful landscape. Furthermore, it is home to the oldest Laurisilva Forests.  Also, despite being a popular tourism attraction, Madeira Portugal has been able to retain its pristine charm. This archipelago has the main island of Madeira and Porto Santo. These two are inhabited islands of the region.  Furthermore, the other two smaller islands, Selvagens and Desertas, are uninhabited. Moreover, Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is the hometown of soccer giant Cristiano Ronaldo. It can’t be bigger and better than this.  So, as you can see, Madeira is the focus of this Tour and Travel Blog. The key areas we will be talking about are:Where Is Madeira Portugal? Is Madeira Part Of Portugal? How To Get To Madeira Portugal?What To Do In Madeira Portugal?1. Exploring The Iconic Levada Trails: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure 2. Feel The Ancient Connection In The Laurisilva Forest: A Precious Experience In Nature3. Enjoy The Thrill Of Walking On The Cabo Girão Skywalk4. Relax In Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools5. Wander Through Funchal’s Mercado Dos Lavradores And Buy Fresh Produce6. Tour Madeira’s Wine Cellars: A Unique Cultural Experience 7. Take A Cable Car To Monte For A Wonderful View Of The Funchal Coastline8. Go Whale Watching Or Dolphin Spotting: How About Some Marine Fun?9. A Food Tour In Madeira: This Is Something You Don’t Want To Miss10. Know About The Rural Heritage Of Madeira At The Town of SantanaWhere To Stay In Madeira Portugal? Madeira Wine Route: The Crown Jewel Of Tourism In Madeira Portugal 1. Between São Vicente And Seixal2. Estreito De Câmara De Lobos3. Experimental Viticulture Station4. Quinta De Santa Luzia5. Fajã Do Barro Viewpoint6. GinjasMadeira Portugal: Some Fun Facts That Truly Make This Atlantic Gem Special 1. The Largest Fireworks Displays In Madeira2. Flower Festival In Madeira Madeira, Portugal: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Where Is Madeira Portugal? Is Madeira Part Of Portugal?  Madeira, Portugal, is located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is an autonomous region of Portugal and a part of the Macaronesia region.  This archipelago has the Canary Islands to the South and Morocco to the east. Furthermore, despite being a part of a European country, it is closer to Africa (450 km) than the mainland of Europe (1000 km). It is also the outermost region of the European Union.  Moreover, you can reach this beautiful archipelago from Lisbon by air in 90 minutes.  How To Get To Madeira Portugal? The Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) in Funchal is the main access point to Madeira Portugal. It is well connected to major Portuguese cities such as Lisbon and Porto, and other European countries.  Furthermore, you can cruise to the Port of Funchal, the port city of Madeira, for a touch of luxury.  Once you reach Madeira, enjoy a ride in the local buses, rented cars, and cable cars to explore like a local.  What To Do In Madeira Portugal? Clichéd, it may sound! But truly, Madeira has something for every type of traveler. You can relax at the Madeira beaches, enjoy hiking, explore the charming towns, and soak in its unique culture.  Here are some unique things to do in this picturesque paradise.  1. Exploring The Iconic Levada Trails: The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure  It is unique when ancient irrigation trails double as the most scenic hiking trails. Yes, I am talking about the “Levadas” network of trails.  Levada do Caldeirão Verde and Levada dos 25 Fontes are the two most popular trails in this route. Overall, the 2000-kilometer scenic route of Levada trails consists of waterfalls, greenery, and mountain peaks.  2. Feel The Ancient Connection In The Laurisilva Forest: A Precious Experience In Nature You can hike through the Laurisilva Forest and feel ancient times speaking to you. The trails here are suitable for hikers of all skill levels.  Also, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to diverse flora and fauna. So, with some patience, you will be able to spot wildlife here.  3. Enjoy The Thrill Of Walking On The Cabo Girão Skywalk Cabo Girão in Madeira is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. The Cabo Girão Skywalk is located at a height of 580 meters, and as you walk through this transparent glass platform, you can see the stunning coastline of Madeira.  4. Relax In Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools Madeira is famous for its volcanic rock formations, and nowhere is this more evident than in Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools.  These pools are filled with crystal-clear seawater and surrounded by dramatic black lava rocks. It’s the perfect spot to relax, swim, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. 5. Wander Through Funchal’s Mercado Dos Lavradores And Buy Fresh Produce Funchal’s Mercado dos Lavradores, or the Farmers’ Market, is a place of bustling energy with exotic fruits, fresh produce, local cheese, and Madeira wine.  Don’t forget to buy specialties such as custard apples and passion fruits.  6. Tour Madeira’s Wine Cellars: A Unique Cultural Experience  Don’t miss a visit to the Madeira wine cellars and see the process of making fortified wine. You can even taste the best ones brewed and be a part of the guided tours conducted by some cellars.  7. Take A Cable Car To Monte For A Wonderful View Of The Funchal Coastline You can go for a cable car ride from the City Center to the town of Monte. Throughout the journey, you will enjoy a beautiful view of Funchal and the surrounding coastline.  The Monte Palace and Church of Our Lady of Monte are two notable attractions on this route.  8. Go Whale Watching Or Dolphin Spotting: How About Some Marine Fun? Madeira is one of the best places in Europe for marine wildlife spotting. April to October is the best time for these marine wildlife spotting tours.  Funchal is the main hub of these tours, and you can spot the adorable animals on a catamaran trip, sailing trips, and fast boats.  9. A Food Tour In Madeira: This Is Something You Don’t Want To Miss The local food of Madeira stands out with the use of exotic fruits, fresh seafood, and rich flavors. Try grilled meat on skewers or Espetada, salted cod or Bacalhau, and Madeiran flatbread such as Bolo do Caco.  Like Moroccan food, food in Madeira also has bread as a staple. Moreover, Madeira Cake is something that gives you a taste of the famous Madeira wine. It’s a dessert.  10. Know About The Rural Heritage Of Madeira At The Town of Santana The rural areas in Madeira still follow a lifestyle that speaks of the island’s history. The town of Santana is especially a place that preserves the rural heritage of the island at its best.  The houses here are triangular and they have thatched roofs. They are also colorfully painted.  Where To Stay In Madeira Portugal?  The best place to stay in Madeira Portugal depends on the kind of experience you want. Have a look at the table below to decide where to stay in Madeira.  Places to Stay in MadeiraExperience You Will Get Funchal• Vibrant Nightlife• Bustling Market• Cultural Exploration in the Historic Old TownPonta do Sol• Resort Experience• Beaches And Coastline• Ideal for RelaxationMachico• Local Experience• Peaceful and Ideal for Family Vacations• Conveniently Located for the Island ExplorationSão Vicente• Rural Experience• Traveling through the Central TunnelsSeixal• Natural Setting• Picturesque View of the North Coast Madeira Wine Route: The Crown Jewel Of Tourism In Madeira Portugal  The Wine Festival in Madeira in August-September is the pride of the local ethnographic and cultural identity. You never know when a wine cellar or brewer in rural Madeira will present you with a century-old elixir.  Nevertheless, irrespective of the time of your visit, you can visit the following places for a delightful wine tour in Madeira. 1. Between São Vicente And Seixal It is an iconic route filled with vine trails by the sea. So, it is ideal for a mixed experience of a coastal getaway and wine tourism.  2. Estreito De Câmara De Lobos Estreito de Câmara de Lobos covers an area starting from the coast to Jardim da Serra, which is at a height of 600 meters.  It is the largest vineyard area in Madeira.  3. Experimental Viticulture Station Located in Arco de São Jorge, the Experimental Viticulture Station is the best location to learn about wine production and the heritage of Madeira wine.  It has a vine and a wine museum. 4. Quinta De Santa Luzia Quinta de Santa Luzia belongs to the Blandy family, who still follow the traditions of Madeiran farms.  They still produce some grape varieties, which were used in the Madeira Wine Company’s wines.  5. Fajã Do Barro Viewpoint This viewpoint in Porto Moniz will present a never-ending stretch of vineyards in front of you. Moreover, from here you will see the vineyards of Fajã de Manuel and how the Atlantic embraces the coastal landscape of Arrudal da Ribeira da Janela.  6. Ginjas Enjoy the most fascinating view of the São Vicente valley from Ginjas. Here, you will notice vineyards on both sides of the mountain.  Madeira Portugal: Some Fun Facts That Truly Make This Atlantic Gem Special  Madeira has one of the biggest fireworks displays in the world, and during the springtime, it hosts one of the most vibrant flower festivals.  1. The Largest Fireworks Displays In Madeira Madeira celebrates New Year’s Eve with great pomp. Also, it once held the Guinness World Record for hosting the biggest firework display.  It took place at Funchal.  2. Flower Festival In Madeira  With its mild climate and volcanic terrain, Madeira gets an abundance of flowers such as orchids, bougainvillea, Bird of Paradise, etc.  The local markets also gear up during this festival, and traditional performances by children and adults celebrate the Madeiran tradition.  Madeira, Portugal: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about Madeira, Portugal.  1. What Is The Best Time To Visit Madeira, Portugal? April to June is the best time to visit Madeira. Along with being the season of the iconic flower festival, it is also the ideal time for spotting whales and dolphins.  2. How Far Is Madeira From Lisbon? It takes around 90 minutes to reach Madeira from Lisbon. There is no road connectivity. However, you can take a luxury cruise ride to the port city of Funchal.  3. Is Maderira Cheap or Expensive? Madeira is a more budget-friendly destination compared to other European cities and countries. There are many budget-friendly hotels, and local food here is also affordable. However, car rentals and short-term vacation rentals here can be a little expensive. A package for a person for a Madeira trip for 3 nights and 4 days can be around $1000.  4. Which Is Better, the Azores Or Madeira?  Your choice between Madeira and the Azores will depend on the kind of experience you want. The Azores, with its dramatic volcanic landscape, is more ideal for outdoor adventures. From a protected marine sanctuary to the hot springs, it also shows a massive geological diversity. Madeira, on the other hand, despite being a dolphin and whale spotting hub, has a more relaxed vibe. It is great for wine tasting, urban experiences, and cultural exploration.  Read Also: Lisbon To Porto Distance: Different Ways To Travel, Accommodation Options, And More “Winter Is Coming!” Where Is Hot In October? Explore Places To Visit In Europe Lisbon to Algarve Distance: Know The Best Ways To Travel And More

BY  Barsha Aug 16, 2023

There's something magical about the snowy mountainside that can entice even the most reluctant of travelers to take a chance and experience the exhilaration of skiing. And when it comes to skiing destinations, few places compare to Les Deux Alpes in southeastern France.  In this article, we'll explore the top four reasons why you should visit Les Deux Alpes for your next ski break. 4 Reasons To Visit Les Deux Alpes During Ski Break Situated right at the center of the French Alps, Les Deux Alpes offers breathtaking views, endless slopes, and an abundance of activities for all levels of skiers. Reason 1: Extensive skiing terrain One of the biggest draws of Les Deux Alpes is its extensive skiing terrain. With over 220 kilometers of slopes, skiers of all levels will have plenty of runs to choose from. From gentle beginner slopes to challenging black runs, there's something for everyone. The resort also offers off-piste skiing for the more adventurous skiers, with opportunities for heli-skiing and ski touring.  The resort is also known for its high-altitude skiing, with runs reaching up to 3,600 meters. This means that skiing is possible even in the late season, making Les Deux Alpes a popular destination for spring skiing. Don’t forget to book your ski pass at Erna Low in order not to waste your time waiting in long lines. Reason 2: Great for families and beginners  While Les Deux Alpes offers plenty of challenging runs for experienced skiers, it's also a great destination for families and beginners. The resort has a dedicated beginners' area with gentle slopes and ski schools for all ages.  The ski institutes provide a range of lessons, from group lessons to private lessons, which is relatively easy for everyone to gain knowledge at their own speed. The resort also has a range of activities for non-skiers, including snowshoeing, ice skating, and tobogganing.  There are also child-friendly activities, like a sledding area and a snow garden, making Les Deux Alpes a great choice for families with young children. Reason 3: Apres ski and nightlife Les Deux Alpes isn't just about skiing - it's also one of the most awesome Alpine Apres-ski resorts. The resort has a range of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs catering to all tastes. Whether you want to enjoy a quiet drink after a day on the slopes or party until the early hours, you'll find something to suit your mood.  One of the most popular apres-ski activities in Les Deux Alpes is ice skating. The resort has a large ice rink that is open throughout the day and into the evening, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes. There is also a range of restaurants and cafes around the rink, serving everything from hot chocolate to cocktails. Reason 4: Stunning scenery Finally, Les Deux Alpes is known for its stunning scenery. Located at the heart of the infamous French Alps, the resort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.  There is also a range of activities for those who want to take in the scenery, including snowshoeing and guided mountain walks. One of the most popular activities in Les Deux Alpes is a ride on the Jandri Express cable car.  Tips To Keep In Mind While Visiting Les Deux Alpes  Who doesn’t enjoy a holiday with their favorite set of people at Les 2 Alpes? The snow across the glacier and cannons surely make you refreshed and energized. But there are certain factors one should keep in mind while traveling to Deux Alpes. Shortlist The Places You Wish To Travel Visiting a ski resort is fun, but not everyone in your group will agree on a common plan. Different people would want to travel to different parts of the city. Hence, in order to avoid confusion and conflicts, prepare a list beforehand. Hand out the list of common places everyone will visit collaboratively to each group member. This way, each one of you can enjoy without worrying about individual interests. Catalog Skiing Needs People with their personal cars and ski equipment have no worries about storing the boards, skis, and shoes in their trunks. But what about the rest? They might want to try new skis. The skis technology never stands still- a titanium and carbon plate adds extra speed to the ski. Choose an all-mountain freeride ski if you wish to travel off-piste.  In case you are a technical skier, rent an additional sharp-carved ski. Maximum hotels have preset agreements and collaborated with ski rental companies offering extra discounts. Check Out Fun Things To Do In Les Deux Alpes It’s time to spice things up a bit. This step is also important to determine the individual interests of each group member. Les Deux Alpes offers everyone a range of entertainment zones. Check them out here: Ice Glider Who doesn’t love to drive bumper cars? But would you dare to drive them on icy ground? This activity might charge you around 5 euros for 5-6 minutes, and only two people are allowed in a single Ice Glider. Also, it is open from 4 pm to 10 pm on Thursdays. Bowling At 12 Place de L’Alpe de Venosc, you get bowling with six lanes. A maximum of 8 players in each lane can play, which makes advance booking highly significant. The cost is somewhere around five euros for each person in the game. There are also darts and air hockey, along with a minibar.  Wrap Up Winter sports holidays are totally fun for your physical and mental well-being. And when you visit Les 2 Alpes, fun is guaranteed. Make sure you take note of the aforementioned tips to make your stay a pleasurable experience.  So, this was all about it. I hope you liked the article which guided you all the way through ski holidaying in Les Deux Alpes. Don’t forget to share your experiences with us. Happy reading! Read Also: Taco Bell Breakfast Hours: When Does Taco Bell Serve Breakfast? You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji! Romantic Weekend Breaks Scotland