Airwander: Should You Try This Platform For Booking Your Travel?

BY  Nabamita Mar 13, 2024

Oktoberfest, celebrated in Munich, is Germany's largest festival and one of the most spirited parties in the world. This annual tradition dates back to 1810 when Bavarians celebrated Prince Ludwig's marriage with massive festivities.   Attracting crowds of over 6 million annually, this 16-day event is a major drawcard for international visitors.   Oktoberfest runs for 16-18 days, starting in late September and ending on the first weekend of October. To prepare for this incredible experience, keep these tips in mind.  However, it is important to note that the festival management establishes certain rules to maintain decorum during these festivities. These rules range from backpacks, bicycles, and prams to entrances, entrances, closing times, etc.   This article will help you learn more about the history, festivities, and joy of attending Oktoberfest. Also, we will help you find some of the best deals for the best Oktoberfest packages to make your experience smoother.  The Origins Of Oktoberfest  Oktoberfest, also known as "Oktoberfest München," is a historical festival with its roots in Munich, Germany.   It first took place on October 12, 1810. This started as a wedding celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen.   Initially, the celebration lasted only five days, where people indulged in drinking, feasting, and horse races.   Today, Oktoberfest is a grand two-week-long event that starts on the first Sunday of October and has earned recognition as the world's largest beer festival.   The festival features a variety of activities, such as horse racing, tree climbing, carnival booths, and agricultural shows.   Moreover, it showcases traditional costumes, parades, and food, immersing visitors in the authentic Bavarian culture.   If the 16th day falls before October 3, the festivity typically lasts 16 days. However, it can extend to 17 or 18 days.   The Beer Culture Of Oktoberfest The beer served at Oktoberfest in Munich is subject to strict beer purification laws, including the Reinheitsgebot, which prohibits beers from breweries outside the city limits. Even smaller breweries are excluded from the event.   The European Union regulates that only certain larger breweries in Munich can call their beers "Oktoberfest."   However, this does not apply to American craft beer, which Boston Beer Co. brews.   Interestingly, the beer of Oktoberfest in Munich was not always copper-colored or malty.   When served for the first time, it was a darker lager, similar to Munich Dunkel. In 1872, a brewery ran out of dark lager during a hot summer and introduced a stronger Vienna-style lager as an alternative.   This alternative was a hit. Thus, its popularity increased until World War I.   The "standard" Oktoberfest beer changed in strength and color after World War I, becoming more marzen-like in color and with a reddish-brown hue.   A malt-forward lager with a gorgeous golden to copper color and session strength has become the standard for the Oktoberfest style.   However, the future of the Oktoberfest beer style remains to be determined, with the potential for changes in taste and appearance over time.  The Festivities  If you're considering attending the annual Oktoberfest celebration in Munich, Germany, you must be fully prepared for everything this incredible event offers.   From the lively music to the mouth-watering food and the endless flow of delicious beer, Oktoberfest is an unforgettable experience!  Here are some insights to get you excited about the festivities at Oktoberfest—  It Is More Than Beer  Oktoberfest is a significant cultural event in Germany beyond just beer drinking.   Men wear lederhosen while women wear dirndls, creating a lively atmosphere outside the beer tents with carnival-like games, rides, and haunted houses.   Even though the festival revolves around drinking, family-friendly attractions are available.  No Ticket Entry  If you're wondering about Oktoberfest tickets, you'll be pleased to know that entry to the Oktoberfest grounds is completely free of charge. There are no entry or cover fees to worry about.  Bring Cash  Attending Oktoberfest is a well-known event. However, this grand festivity only accepts cards due to long lines and high fees. The expense of participating varies depending on the quantity of drinks you intend to have.   For those on a budget, allocating around 50 euros daily for food, drinks, and rides would suffice. In addition, coins are essential for smooth tipping, as a liter of beer costs 12-13 euros, depending on the tipping level.   Also, a few ten euro bills and 1 & 2 euro coins won’t hurt you at the Oktoberfest.  Explore The Tents  Oktoberfest tents have unique vibes, decor, and character, making exploring as many as possible essential.   The most well-known Hofbrau tent is notorious for being full of tourists, and locals often avoid it.   To fully experience the Oktoberfest experience, research beforehand and speak with locals to find the best tent for your needs.   Visiting as many tents as possible is also advisable, as each has its character and vibe.  Put Your Social Caps On  This text highlights the importance of socializing and enjoying music at a party. It encourages individuals to be polite and ask if space is available or to share it with others.   After a few drinks, it presents a great opportunity to connect with new people while singing classic hits.  Finding Your Accommodation  During Oktoberfest, finding affordable accommodation can be challenging, with prices ranging from 400 euros per night to over €500.   Book accommodation near a U-Bahn station on the U4 or U5 line to save money.   One good option is Stoketoberfest, provided by Stoke Travel, which offers budget-friendly private tents. It is Munich's only true budget accommodation option and is within city limits.   Moreover, Stoketoberfest offers an exciting party atmosphere with a stage show featuring live bands and DJs. Therefore, discover these packages at the most affordable rates and book early for hassle-free accommodation!  You can enjoy unlimited beer and sangria at your open bar and participate in games like flip cup beer pong or the Wheel of Misfortune.   The dance floor never stops, making it the wildest party in Munich. Oktoberfest is well-connected to public transportation, so you can easily explore the city.   Traditional Oktoberfest outfits are also available for purchase on-site.  Bask In Traditions  As discussed above, Munich's beloved fall festival features more than just beer.   Oktoberfest, at the end of the day, is all about traditions. You will see the Bavarians dressed in Dirndls and lederhosen wearing 20-euro fabric; lederhosen indicates a foreigner's presence.   This event is steeped in tradition, from chicken dances and sing-alongs to giant pretzels and gingerbread necklaces. It typically kicks off on a Saturday in late September and lasts for 16-18 days.  So book your Oktoberfest packages and plan ahead for a fun-filled experience at Munich’s Oktoberfest. Read Also: The Hippest Craft Beer Pubs In Europe: Been There Yet? Albuquerque Ambiance: Top Hotel Picks For Every Traveler Exploring The World Through Taste: Essential Traveling Tips For Foodies

BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 7, 2023

If you're looking for a perfect family-friendly beach getaway, Bournemouth should definitely be on your list. You can explore the coastline and visit the famous Boscombe Pier by joining a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. For nature lovers, a trip to Hengistbury Head nature reserve can be a great experience. If you love being on the water, you can take a cruise around Poole Harbor and its islands, which can be a memorable afternoon excursion. And last but not least, enjoying fish and chips on the beach is a must-try experience. This destination is ideal for families with kids who enjoy spending time around boats. There are two Blue Flag beaches in the area, Durley Chine and Alum Chine, which are perfect for children. They have soft white sand, beach huts, and playgrounds, making it an exciting place for them to explore. In this article, we will explain some of the most exciting things to do in Bournemouth. Bournemouth: An Overview Although there is something magical about escaping to the British coast in autumn. Of course, the obvious time to visit is summer. But the peak months offer a more relaxed pace away from the busy crowds. It has unobstructed sea views, refreshing freshness in the air, and plenty of activities and events to enjoy. If you're looking for something away from the coastline, why not check out the Bournemouth Arts Festival? It runs from October 14th to 21st and features a variety of performances in dance, music, film, theater, literature, and visual arts. One of the highlights is Hydromania, a show that promises to be both surprising and delightful. With over 50 events taking place throughout the city's unique locations, the 'Indian Summer' offers an exciting artistic experience. For those seeking more active activities, Boscombe Pier is a great spot for mini-golf. And for the thrill-seekers, zip-lining from Bournemouth Pier to the beach is a must-try adventure. During New Year's Eve, the coastal and woodland walks in Dorset are perfect for relaxation. You can enjoy strolls along the beautiful beaches or wander through the 3km of Grade II listed Victorian gardens in the city center, which turn into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. There's even a guided Tree Trail sheet to help you learn more about each species as you explore the gardens. This seaside escape is affordable, starting at just £450 for 4 midweek nights on the beach. Top Things To Do In Bournemouth Whether you're traveling with young children or older kids, seaside destinations in the UK offer something for everyone. Bournemouth is rich in local culture, history, adventure, and breathtaking sea views. Check out our top picks for a fun-filled beachy getaway. 1. Bournemouth Beach Experience the epitome of nautical bliss at Bournemouth Beach, where golden sand stretches for miles, inviting you to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the glistening waters of the English Channel. “Beautiful beach easily accessible, fantastically clean, good facilities. Great beach. Plenty of things to do amusements, oceanarium, Bournemouth wheel. Plenty of places to eat can recommend Aruba bar serves food all day, reasonably priced.” - Deb 2. Stroll Through Bournemouth Gardens Immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of Bournemouth Gardens as you stroll along winding paths surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant flower beds, and tranquil ponds, offering a peaceful escape from the busy city. “A lovely area of grass and shade that separates the Bournemouth beach from the shops. It goes along the back of the Pavillion and BH2 is just off it. Some nice live music was playing one evening. A relaxing place to people watch.” - ADPW62 3. Oceanarium Immerse yourself in a world of aquatic wonders at the Oceanarium, where you can admire fascinating marine life, meet fascinating creatures from around the world, and learn about the importance of protecting the oceans. “We had such a fantastic day at Oceanarium! There are so many different things to see and the areas are set up really well. Lunch was also really good in the cafe and a fair price. We would definitely return to Oceanarium in a few months.” - Georgie James 4. Russell-Cotes Art Gallery And Museum Step into the treasure trove of art and history at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum. Admire stunning artwork, explore fascinating exhibits, and dive into the lives of the Victorian collectors who once called this enchanting mansion home. “Really interesting and cultural place to visit whilst in Bournemouth. The volunteer guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. Good value at £7.50 entrance, you would need an hour or two to see all the rooms and gardens. Perhaps not that interesting for young children. There is a nice cafe inside for coffee after your visit.” - gurux101 5. RockReef Pier Zip Line Feel the adrenaline rush as you float over the waves from RockReef's exciting pier. Enjoy panoramic views of the coast and enjoy the thrill of this unique and unforgettable experience. “Highly recommend this as part of a family day out, we participated in climbing with our kids (7 & 9). Had much longer than our session because they were not fully booked. Young staff team were really good.” -- Experience154700 6. BIC (Bournemouth International Centre) Enjoy entertainment at the Bournemouth International Center (BIC), a premier venue for a variety of events, including concerts, conferences, and exhibitions, ensuring there is always something exciting going on. “We went to see The War of the Worlds. Oh what a show, it was fantastic. The BIC is a brilliant place to watch a show. We were lucky to have good seats near the front, but if you were to sit anywhere in the theatre you would have a good view of the stage.” - Geraldineoz 7. Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf Go on a pirate-themed adventure at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf. Go through challenging paths full of obstacles, caves, and waterways and create a fun experience for all ages. “A brilliant way to spend some time. Beautiful views of the sea whilst you play crazy golf. We, two adults, enjoyed ourselves thoroughly and it was lovely to see families also having a huge amount of fun.” - Emily S 8. City Sightseeing Bournemouth Hop On Hop Off Tour Discover the city's highlights on a Bournemouth City Sightseeing Tower Tour. Explore at your own pace, hopping on and off the iconic red buses to visit attractions, landmarks, and scenic viewpoints. “Booked bus tour and boat cruise, was looked after by staff on both the bus and boat. Not the best weather but really enjoyed. Good local knowledge via commentary.” - SimonMLincoln 9. VR Center Immerse yourself in the exciting world of virtual reality at Center VR. From epic gaming experiences to mind-blowing simulations, this state-of-the-art attraction offers tech lovers a unique and immersive adventure. “Firstly we were very impressed with the service we received from the staff throughout. From booking the experience over the phone, to arrival and starting the game, even chatting to staff after the game they were friendly, knowledgeable, helpful and generally a pleasure to deal with.” - Paul T 10. Mr. Mulligans Unleash your competitive spirit with Mr. At Mulligans, a fantastic venue offering indoor adventure golf, interactive games, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a fun day out with friends or family. “Booking was easy and, I think, reasonably priced. Staff very friendly and it was very clean. We were lucky it was very quiet when we went so we didn't feel rushed or crowded. Fun and imaginative courses.” - Mandy W Wrapping Up Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Bournemouth, an enchanting seaside town on the edge of Dorset. Its amazing beaches, thriving nightlife, and endless charm make it worth a visit. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask on things to do in Bournemouth, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City That You Must Try! Some Of The Best Things To Do In Navarre Beach, Florida You Won’t Believe The Best Things To Do When In Fiji!

BY  Sibashree Nov 11, 2024

With the festive season knocking on doors, everyone is set for holidays and travel plans. The exotic places to travel offer you the best beach experience. You also get to soak in the Sun and have some fun in the tropical jungle. How about some unusual experience this time? You can always add exotic places to your wishlist according to your preferences. From the cultural heritage of Fiji to the mountains of Sardinia, you must go for something unique.  What Is An Exotic Place To Travel, BtW? An exotic place is a far-off destination from your country. These places are called exotic because they offer unusual experiences. Some bucket-list-worthy exotic destinations are Mexico, Madagascar, Fiji and Belize.  Most Unusual Exotic Places To Travel In The World: Curated For An Eclectic Experience  The exotic places to travel offer you the experience of a lifetime. Located in a distant country, these destinations are great for knowing about local culture and human history.  So, exotic tourism is beyond beautiful landscapes and outdoor pursuits.  To ensure you have the most amazing experience, I have listed the exotic places to travel worldwide. Let’s check out the entries. 1. Baja California Sur, Mexico Best Time to Visit: December to April  Baja California Sur is a place of wonderful scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems. Further, you will love the following water activities here. Visit Magdalena Bay to watch whales Enjoy the best snorkeling experience in Cabo Pulmo. Don’t miss Espiritu Santo Island and its diving fun. Also, do you want to swim with sharks? La Paz is your go-to destination in Baja California Sur. However, you can also have the most serene vacation at Balandra Beach. You will love paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming here.  2. Madagascar Best Time to Visit: April to October Madagascar is home to fascinating rainforests and white-sand beaches. The beaches here are pristine. So, there is a lot to explore, and you can expect fewer crowds on the beaches. Further, the canyons and limestone karsts make it one of the most exotic places to travel in the world. However, Madagascar will win your heart with its diverse wildlife. Most of the wild animals you see here are not found anywhere else in the world.  Moreover, what can be more adventurous than swimming with sharks at the Nosy Be island?  3. Cappadocia, Turkey Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November Have you heard of “Fairy Chimneys” in Cappadocia? A UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are the rock formations in a cone shape, and you will find them in Monks Valley and Göreme. Further, Cappadocia takes you on a history walk with homes made by troglodytes or cave dwellers. These homes are from the Bronze Age. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cappadocia is the Gerome Open Air Museum. With rock formations, monasteries, and churches, Gerome tells the tales of the Byzantine Era. Moreover, Cappadocia is popular for its hot balloon rides. It feels most amazing during the sunrise and sunset.  4. Fiji, Oceania Best Time to Visit: May to October A paradise of crystal clear waters and beaches, Fiji is exotic. Further, the sugarcane plantations here speak volumes about the livelihood of the local people.  Fiji also has endless attractions, such as the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, Kula Wild Adventure Park, Sobeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool, and Biausevu Waterfall. However, for someone keen to learn about human lives and culture, the best experience would be visiting the Fiji Culture Village. The Kava Ceremony and the traditional dance performances are mesmerizing. Moreover, you will get to gorge on traditional Fiji cuisine cooked on earth ovens.  5. Sardinia, Italy Best Time to Visit: June to September Sardinia is one of the most exotic places in Italy. Just driving in a car or scooter along the coastal paradise is an experience in itself. Further, swimming in the Emerald Coast and Costa Smeralda is something that I will cherish for a lifetime. You can even take a chartered sailboat to visit the hidden bays. Furthermore, Cagliari, the capital city of Sardinia, introduces you to the local culture with many archaeological sites, museums, and churches. Bosa and other small villages will also cast a lasting impression on you with colorful buildings. Don’t forget to visit Doria Castle in Bosa. It was built in the 12th century.  6. Belize Best Time to Visit: December to April Belize, a country in Central America, is a wonderful fusion of ancient ruins, lush jungles, marine life, and turquoise water. Further, Belize has the most amazing beaches where you can take part in the following activities.  Snorkeling Scuba Diving A Flight Over  If you want to have the best inland experience, you can visit ATM Cave, Rio Frio Cave, and various Mayan historical sites. If you want to learn more about the history of Belize and human life, you can visit Cahal Pech, an ancient city.  7. Kefalonia, Greece Best Time to Visit: June to August Kefalonia is the largest Ionian island in Greece. Its blue coastline looks the most amazing, with coves and limestone cliffs. Further, you will love the vineyards and rugged mountains here.  One of the exotic places to travel, Kefalonia stands out because of its Myrtos Beach. You will enjoy an amazing view of the turquoise sea here. Other places that will keep you intrigued are: Melissáni Cave Ainos National Park Mount Ainos Moreover, you must not forget a visit to Fiskardo, a quaint village with the best architecture from the 18th century.  8. Rajasthan, India Best Time to Visit: November to February The land of great Rajput warriors and rulers, Rajasthan is a living destination of human history. James Tod, an Oriental scholar, penned the most beautiful historical account of the state. The name of the book is “Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan.” Further, “Rajkahini” by Abanindranath Thakur is a wonderful depiction of Rajasthan's royalties. If you want to visit Rajasthan, one of the most exotic places in the world, you must read these books once. Rajasthan has so much to offer that you need at least 15 days to touch upon its iconic spots, such as the Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Mehrangarh Fort, and many other fortifications. Don’t forget to explore the desert on a camel safari. You will also fall in love with the local culture. Rajasthan has some of the most iconic dance forms, like Kalbelia, and the tunes of the Sindhi Sarangi are a sheer delight to the ears. Moreover, the local puppet shows are vibrant, and they depict historical and folk stories.  9. Sa Pa, Vietnam Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November Sa Pa in northwest Vietnam is a tranquil beach destination. The beautiful Hoàng Liên Son Mountains are also present here, making you cherish a scenic view. Moreover, Da, Dao, Hmong, and other local tribes live here. An interaction with them is better than any book describing the culture and human history of the country. So, you can miss the best luxury hotels in Sa Pa and spend your days here in homestays surrounded by these tribes. Also, you can collect the most aesthetic souvenirs from the local market. It has handicraft products.  10. Indonesia Best Time to Visit: July to December Indonesia itself is a wonderful travel destination. Indonesia’s tourism industry supports 12.5 jobs and is projected to contribute more than IDR 1,131TN to the country's economy in 2024. (Source: World Travel & Tourism Council) However, I want to discuss the Raja Ampat Islands, one of the most exotic places to visit in Indonesia. Snorkeling and scuba diving are the most amazing activities here. You will encounter amazing turtles, mata rays, and dolphins here. Furthermore, a wildlife exploration here will allow you to meet the most beautiful birds and many endemic species.  Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.