Unveiling The Best European Escapes To Bask In Winter Sun

BY  Abdul Aziz May 11, 2023

Portugal's Pena Palace is an outstanding masterpiece of Romanticism architecture that is nestled in the hills above the charming town of Sintra. This palace is a striking combination of Gothic, Moorish and Manueline styles that showcase the best of Portuguese culture and history. This majestic palace is not just a visual treat but also offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of a bygone era. You might be missing out on a lot if you have still not booked Pena Palace Tickets. Let us take you to an unbelievable experience of this extraordinary destination. History The Pena Palace was built in the mid-19th century by King Ferdinand II, who was a German prince and the husband of Queen Maria II. He purchased the ruins of an old monastery that stood atop a hill in Sintra and transformed it into a magnificent palace. The construction of the Inside Pena Palace was completed in 1854, and King Ferdinand II spent many years refining and adding to the palace's design. Architecture The Pena Palace's unique architectural style is a combination of different architectural styles from different eras. The palace features Gothic towers, battlements, and Manueline-style arcades that create a stunning blend of different architectural styles. The palace also has Moorish-influenced decorative features such as horseshoe arches and minaret-style towers. The palace's colorful exterior is a striking blend of bright reds, yellows, and blues that make it stand out among the lush greenery that surrounds it. The palace's design reflects the Romanticism movement, which was a cultural and artistic movement that originated in Europe in the late 18th century. Romanticism was a reaction against the Enlightenment era's emphasis on reason and logic and celebrated emotions, individualism, and nature. The Pena Palace's design embodies the Romanticism movement's principles, with its eclectic mix of architectural styles and its focus on nature, beauty, and emotion. Interior The Inside of Pena Palace is just as stunning as its exterior, with each room designed with its unique theme and style. The palace's rooms feature intricate carvings, detailed paintings, and ornate furnishings that take visitors back in time to the romantic era of the 19th century. The most impressive room in the palace is the Great Hall, which features a giant chandelier, intricate stucco work, and a beautifully decorated ceiling. The palace's other rooms are equally impressive, with each room featuring unique design elements that showcase the palace's history and culture. The Arab Room, for example, features Moorish-inspired designs and decoration, while the Queen's Bedroom is a beautiful example of the palace's Manueline influences. Gardens The palace's gardens are just as impressive as the palace itself. The gardens feature a variety of exotic plants, including rare species from around the world. Visitors can explore the gardens' many paths and walkways, which lead to a stunning array of fountains, statues, and lookout points. The gardens also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and countryside, making it a popular spot for photographers. The park surrounding the palace covers over 200 hectares and includes several different gardens and forested areas. The gardens feature a wide range of plant species, including camellias, azaleas, rhododendrons, and magnolias. The park also includes several lakes, grottos, and waterfalls, which add to the park's natural beauty and charm. Visiting Pena Palace The Palace is open to visitors throughout the year, and visitors can purchase Pena Palace tickets online or at the palace's entrance. Visitors can choose to explore the palace's interior or gardens or purchase a combination ticket that includes access to both. The palace can get crowded during peak season, so it's best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. It's also important to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the palace and gardens. Guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the palace's history and architecture. Audio guides are also available for visitors who prefer to explore the palace at their own pace. The palace's website provides detailed information on visiting the palace, including opening hours, ticket prices, and tour options. Conclusion Pena Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Portugal. It's a stunning example of Romanticism architecture that combines different architectural styles to create a unique and unforgettable experience. The palace's gardens are just as impressive as the palace itself, offering visitors a chance to explore a wide range of exotic plant species and stunning natural features. Visitors to Pena Palace can step back in time and experience the grandeur and beauty of a bygone era. The palace's unique architecture and design elements are a testament to Portugal's rich culture and history. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or nature lover, Pena Palace is sure to impress and leave a lasting impression. Pena Palace is a true gem of Portugal, a perfect blend of different architectural styles and natural beauty. It's a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of Portugal while immersing themselves in the beauty and charm of the palace and its surroundings. A visit to Pena Palace is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed. Read Also: How To Fund The Cost Of Travelling Top 5 Travel Tips For Your Next Trip To China 9 Things Every Traveler Should Know When Visiting Shanghai

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 24, 2019

Visiting Europe is the dream of everybody around the world. There are dissimilar places around Europe that will delight you while visiting. Below are some of the best places to visit in Europe. The architecture of Europe makes it the best destination for anybody thinking about traveling there. The best places to visit in Europe have so much to offer for families, newlyweds, children, and adults. You will enjoy every minute you spend while visiting Europe. Below are some of the best places to visit in Europe. 1. Matera, Italy The unique architecture, with walls made of pale stones and ancient dwellings carved in the hills, are reasons enough to make you visit Matera. The Basilicata jewel is getting its moment the spotlight as the capital of culture in Europe and Bulgaria. It not only means endless festivities and events taking over in the year, but also derelict grottoes of limestone that turn to restaurants, galleries, and smart hotels with vaulted rooms. 2. Riga, Latvia Riga is the capital of Latvia with close to thirty thousand votes. It is among the best places to visit in Europe. You will be dazzled by the beauty of Riga. The city has been the meeting point for diverse cultures. It has a connection to forests, water, and nature. You might not know that it has beautiful hills, beaches, and highlands. Come to Riga to discover romantic and Romanesque buildings, art deco, renaissance, and baroque. 3. Outer Hebrides, Scotland If you want authentic, natural beauty and local experiences, these islands in Scotland are the best to watch this year. Also called the Western Isles, they offer a mix of the Caribbean looking beaches, thoughtfully preserved the culture and northern lights. Spend hours here in the countryside in the midst of thick, wildflowers, and coastal paths that tower above whirling, wild seas. Air is fresh, views are endless, and nature stillness is close to the soul. Hurrying and technology make no sense in this place. Enjoy the leisure space of life, drink at local pubs, and eat the best farm to table and seafood in Britain. 4. Colmar, France Colmar is among the best places to visit in Europe because of its romantic, charming, and magical destinations. Colmar makes travelers from all over to dream. When you visit, you will enjoy its charming hotels, gastronomy, architecture, and neighborhood of tanners. It is perfect for both the old and the young since it is among the best places to visit in Europe. You need to come to Colmar to discover the Unterlinden museum, toy museum, or the Bartholdi museum. 5. Berlin, Germany It is time to go to Berlin if it has been one of your dream visit destinations. This cool capital has a lot of festivities because it is celebrating the Bauhaus Centennial, and thirty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It means that added to the vibrant art, brilliant food scene, and glorious nightlife, travelers will get a log of special events to honor these anniversaries. Cultural centers and museums in the city will host thematic exhibitions with a lot of lectures, concerts, and theatrical performance that will keep you busy. You will also witness the largest festival of Europe, opening of the Humboldt forum, and the new museum housed in the Berlin Palace. 6. Tbilisi, Georgia With delicious food, cobblestoned old town, and stylish hotels coming up, it not surprising for Tbilisi to be among the best places to visit in Europe. Nestled in River Mtkyari valley against the picturesque backdrop of the mountain, this capital is weird, unique, and wonderful. It has a mélange of eras and styles with great bathhouses on the Armenian crumbling Soviet factories and churches that became hipster hangouts. The medieval old town here consists of narrow cobblestone alleyways, pastel-colored houses, and mysterious courtyards with carved wooden balconies that beg to be explored. There are old churches, vintage shops, and funky ventures all over. The culture of coffee is booming, the nightlife is vibrant, renaissance landscape, and tolerant pumping electronic music. 7. Zadar, Croatia While the majority of visitors focus on fashionable or Dubrovnik islands like Korcula and Hvar, Zadar has its mark with exceptional cultural heritage, public art installation, and magical sunsets. This city boasts of gleaming marble streets, vibrant coffee scenes, and notch seafood restaurants. The walled old town is a treasure of atmospheric lanes, fascinating medieval churches, and Roman remains. The main draw of Zadar is the beautiful waterfront where there is an award-winning installation known as the Sea Organ that utilizes the waves of the ocean to come up with a hypnotic, soothing sound. 8. Copenhagen, Denmark Copenhagen has been rarely from the spotlight. Considering that it is named among the best places to visit in Europe, it is the most likable, design-forward, bike-friendly city that is not a surprise. It has chic new hotels, dining places, and excellent taste in design have changed Copenhagen into a great attraction. It has a wealth of cultural treasures and stunning architecture that lend this Danish capital charm, but the creative vibes of the city, ambitious green agenda, and clean Scandinavian design make it the best place to visit in Europe. 9. Ljubljana, Slovenia If you have experienced the delights of Croatia or the coast of Montenegro, go to Ljubljana for a mixture of leafy parks, cobbled streets, and cool cafes along the riverside. The young and vibrant capital of Slovenia is getting into the limelight with new hotels, burgeoning cultural life, and forward-thinking restaurants. The city architecture celebrates the rich past and the bright future, with all things from Viennese secessionist and graceful Baroque buildings to modern marvels of Joze Plecnik. 10. Almeria province, Spain Almeria is the most unique, diverse, and very beautiful. It is a strange location where beaches coexist with barren landscapes in Europe. The rocky coastline is long and has many flamingoes for you to discover while visiting. It also has dry riverbeds, worldly ochre-colored formations, and theme parks used for filming. It is overlooked by many travelers of south Spain. It has the best scenes in the country and tranquil squares, spectacular Moorish fortress, and splendid churches. Conclusion Visiting Europe has never been as interesting as now because of the experiences you will get. There is no specific time of the year when you should visit because you can always find something during your time in Europe. There are many hubs of entertainment and enjoyment while at this destination. Plan your timetable well and you will get it all in the best places to visit in Europe. Read Also: Top 3-Week Itineraries for a Perfect Tour of Europe 5 EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS NEGATIVELY IMPACTED BY ‘OVER-TOURISM Top Places to Visit in Italy on your next Travel Escapade

BY  Abdul Aziz Dec 2, 2021

Everyone should travel abroad and explore the mysterious corners of the world at least once in their lifetime. And what better place to start your journey than Europe, which literally has it all. From quaint little hamlets to breathtaking natural wonders, bustling spired cities to soul-soothing golden beaches, Gondola rides in the Venetian canal to romantic candle-lit dinners atop the Eiffel Tower. Not to mention, the friendly indigenous folk, the local cultural events, and the refreshingly unique food. Indeed, traveling across Europe is sure to turn your life around for the better, enriching it with precious memories of interesting adventures. But there are a lot of factors to take into consideration before you can begin this Euro trip. Let me help you with a few backpacking tips if you prefer to travel on foot and point you in the right direction. Here are 5 Backpacking Tips for an Unforgettable Euro-Trip: Everything depends on your budget. If you can afford to stay in one of those pricier hotels, then go for it. But if you’re a backpacker, then you might want to save on the accommodation costs, for which there are plenty of options. Here are a few helpful backpacking tips: 1. Seasonal Selection: If it is during wintertime that you decide to begin your Euro-tour, then head over to the places with the best skiing facilities and the most tasteful New Year parties, like Finland, Sweden or Austria, etc. In the case of the spring season, perfectly balanced between the dying winter and the emerging summer, select Netherlands, Greece, France, or Ireland as your European destinations, in full bloom. For an autumnal golden view mixed with browns and greens, travel to the Mediterranean. As the tourist traffic dies down, enjoy the pleasant quietness of the coastlines and explore the eerie cities of Spain and Italy, etc. Finally, if the hot summer season is your choice for the trip, then make your way to the Baltic regions, the eastern Slovenian mountains and the wonderful Balkan coastline. Just make sure to pick your season wisely and not begin your journey haphazardly. 2. Euro-Train Travel There are many ways you could go around Europe, but the best mode of transportation for backpackers is the railway. It is featured in many wanderlust movies, like Before Sunset (2004) which shows the characters getting the most out of their journey via train travel. You can order these movies by visiting here, for further inspiration. Why the train, you ask? Well, for starters, you can better enjoy the multi-colored view of the European landscape from your train window, rather than from an airplane. Other than that, if you sleep overnight in your cabin on one of those long rides, then you’ll save on accommodation costs. Plus, most countries require a single train pass, like a Eurail or an Interrail Global pass, in order to become accessible. Cool, right? 3. Accommodation Options Visiting Europe is a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity. From searching hotels in west London to packing your bags for the southernmost tip of Prague, there is so much to do. If you truely want things to be just right, here are a few useful tips: Guesthouse: This is a private mode of lodging, where the hosts allot one separate section of their house to a paying guest for staying in. It also goes by the name of the bed and breakfast. You can book your spot in such guesthouses online by going for digital accommodation apps like Airbnb etc. They give a much homelier welcome than the super-formal hotels, so you won’t feel home-sick. Hostel: Also known by the name of an ‘inn’, this accommodation system goes way back to medieval times. It is an establishment that gives inexpensive lodging and food to students, workers, and travelers mostly. Book your rooms beforehand to avoid any sort of inconvenience. Camp: If you want to truly test yourself and connect with the nature on the rawest level, then book your spot on a well-equipped camping site. It is not only quite affordable, and but comes with a special bonfire bonding. University Stays: Most of the universities in certain countries offer cheap lodgings to students. You can avail of this option as well. There are other accommodation options too, but these are the ones which I’d recommend. 4. Cultural Delve Once you reach a place, be sure to collect as many experiences as you can, and such experiences begin once you indulge in the local cultures. Festivals are a major part of any culture, so plan your trip around such events in advance. There’s the orange battle festival in Italy, the bullfight in Spain, the shamrock-jeweled St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Ireland, and the interesting naked run Roskilde festival in Denmark, etc. In addition to such events, be sure to savor the curious, indigenous cuisines. Instead of going to the expensive restaurants, save on your backpacker’s budget by eating like the locals. Refresh your taste buds with the multi-colored street food. Popular dishes include French crêpes, Denmark’s smørrebrød, the Italian trattoria, currywurst of Berlin and the Belgian fries, etc. Apart from this, the best option would be to cook your own food. Handpick ingredients from the local markets, which come with their own titillating flavors. Markets are a hubbub of interesting activity. Don’t forget to add them to your tour. Do buy small souvenirs, like key chains, to hang from your backpacks. 5. Nightly Forays One word: pubs. Even though the days are full of invigorating explorations, nights are equally alive with inebriation in the European countries. So, there are plenty of reasons to stay up late and go on nightly forays. There are hipster dives in London and Berlin, ruin bars in Budapest, and wine tastings in France and Italy. Moreover, the flamenco music scene in Seville, historic pubs of Oxford, and cafes in Brussels are a must-visit too. Do not miss out on these dark, happy hours by wasting them away on sleep. One important tip that you should definitely keep in mind is that your safety is your own responsibility once you go backpacking tips across Europe. So, do not take any chances with expensive cameras or jewelry, and always be on your guard. Especially, when you go on the roads less taken and explore under-the-radar areas, like Berat or Olomouc. Be sure to take the basic precautions to stay safe. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: How long is the backpacking trip to Europe? A:  For larger Europen sites you will need 2 to 4 full days and 3 to 5 nights. For smaller sites, you will need 1 to 2 days maximum. So it all depends on how much time you can spend on your trip to Europe.  Q2: Is backpacking to Europe is cheap? A: If you choose the peak time which is the Summer season, then it is going to be expensive for you as well as the place will be crowded. To have a smooth trip to Europe with any crowd and also where accommodations are 50% cheaper, travel during the shoulder or offseason. Q3: Are hostels in Europe safe? A: Not that much, the common security issue you will face is theft, especially in larger cities like Paris and Rome. therefore the hostels have lockers that save your belongings from getting robbed. But always carry your purse along with your passport, credit cards, IDs with you.  Q4: Is there any age limit to take a trip to Europe? A: Hostels and Hotels will only allow you if you are 18 or above, otherwise a guardian accompanying you will be nice. Exception when counted, Germany’s Bavarian Region does not consider this age thing in most hostels.  Wrapping Up: So, whenever you plan your backpacking tips journey, be sure to pay attention to the aforementioned tips. These will surely benefit you in the long run and make your Euro-trip bump-free. Read More: How to Choose A Backpack 10 Best Places To Visit In Europe Top 3-Week Itineraries For A Perfect Tour Of Europe