Winter Sun Escapes: Best European Places To Bask

BY  Sibashree Apr 28, 2025

This time, I was on a 2-day Paris travel and was working on how the best hotels in Paris have been supporting the thriving tourism scene in the city. I did my case study on the hotels near Opera Paris France, to get the entire picture.  I also had the opportunity to meet the leaders of Citadines Apart'hotel Opéra Paris, which The Ascott Limited operates. They shared their insights and observations with me. Paris had a footfall of 11.2 million during the Summer Olympics of 2024. The success story with great numbers continued as Paris consolidated the Olympics’ success for the rest of the year.  This boost in the number of tourists has further facilitated growth in the hospitality sector. The French hospitality sector is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.34% from 2023 to 2028.  However, these two booming industries are also bearing the wrath of overtourism in the city.  So, there could not be a better time to delve deeper into how the best hotels in Paris have been supporting tourism so far. Also, we need to talk about how they respond to minimize the impact of overtourism with sustainable practices.  Best Hotels In Paris: Working And Growing With The Tourism Industry Of The City The best hotels in Paris are beyond tourist accommodations. With luxury in mind and an upscale shift, these hotels are influencing the spending patterns of tourists.  France was the most-visited country in the world in 2024, with an unbelievable footfall of around 100 million.  Now, a large number of these tourists look for accommodations in luxury hotels. With their hotel expenses and overall luxury spending increasing, the city gains revenue.  This approach aligns with what Nathalie Delattre, the French Minister of Tourism, stated in response to the anticipated tourism boom in France for 2024.  “We need to work to increase the average each visitor spends and get our visitors to stay longer.” The impact of hotels in Paris on tourist spending patterns extends beyond the standalone tourism and hospitality industry. It’s about the overall GDP and economy of the city.  But the “luxury experience” here is not to scare you if you are a tourist. It does not mean that you cannot visit Paris within a budget. It’s true that Paris, as a travel destination, is somewhat expensive, and accommodations are pricier than those in similar setups in other countries. However, the city offers a diverse range of hotel tariffs. A Shared Market Space Creating Discord Between The Hotel And Tourism Sectors? A shared market space!  This has been one of the biggest challenges for the top hotels in Paris, as they collaborate with the tourism industry to boost the city’s economy.  Now, services like AirBnb are offering more flexibility in booking and better pricing options. So, of course, there is the “price sensitivity” factor. Additionally, Airbnb is eager to seize opportunities, as it did during the Summer Olympics in Paris last time.   Airbnb was the official sponsor of the Paris Olympics, and it played a significant role in the 44% surge in short-term rental bookings in 2024 from the summer of 2023.  Also, Airbnb was direct when it approached the visitors of the Paris Olympics to avoid the “touristy side of Paris" and book short-term rentals on the “Paris-y side of Paris.” Moreover, Airbnb, through the “Airbnb500 Travel Grant,” offered discounts to tourists visiting Paris during the 2024 Summer Olympics.  Now, with discounted pricing and Parisians willing to give up their accommodation on rent through Airbnb, many hotels in Paris have suffered.  "The rate discounting that's happened, the occupancy levels, they're definitely being suppressed and compressed by the short-term rental market, without question.”Blake Reiter, Director of Research, Lighthouse Having said that, the best hotels in Paris have been able to keep their presence strong as they cater to the group of tourists seeking a high-end experience.  Additionally, city officials have introduced restrictions on short-term rentals to prevent Airbnb and similar businesses from causing significant harm to the hospitality industry.  Moreover, in November 2024, France approved an “Anti-Airbnb Bill” to control the increase in vacation rentals.  So, the threats of a shared market space have become less for the best hotels in Paris and other parts of France.  Overtourism In Paris: How The Best Hotels In Paris Respond To It? The best hotels in Paris had a slow start in summer 2024. However, with the Summer Olympics inching closer, occupancy rates in these hotels increased despite challenges from Airbnb and other short-term rental services.  During the summer Olympics, the hotel occupancy rate in this area reached 84%. Of course, there was revenue growth with a higher occupancy rate, discounts, and non-refundable rooms for tourists.  Still, the housing industry could not avoid an accommodation crunch, hygiene issues, safety threats, and other impacts of overtourism.  A sustainable collaboration between the best hotels in Paris and tourists is crucial. It will minimize the environmental impact and enhance the overall quality of life in the city.   For example, The Ascott Limited's sustainability program has helped me understand how the best hotels in Paris are doing it right. They are trying to minimize the impact of overtourism on the city’s environment and natural resources. Showing Commitment To Sustainability The Ascott Limited is sincere about taking care of the environment. Also, it has earned the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Committed status.  Moreover, Ascott Limited aims to achieve GSTC-Accredited Body certification for its global portfolio by 2028.  The sustainability program, known as “Ascott CARES,” is based on five fundamental pillars, and those are: Respect Alliance Community Environment  Supply Chain Also, Ms. Beh Siew Kim from Ascott has mentioned that sustainability has always been a key priority for the business. “The Ascott Limited aiming to have all their properties certified by GSTC-accredited Certification Bodies by 2028 where applicable* is a testament to how serious they are committed as an organization to environmental and social responsibility. We applaud Ascott’s leadership and vision in prioritizing sustainability, and I am confident that their efforts will set a benchmark for others in the sector to follow.”Randy Durband, CEO, The Global Sustainable Tourism Council With Ascott Limited as an example, the best hotels in Paris are also redefining the tourism landscape. They are also trying to fight overtourism by building a sustainable future. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 3, 2020

There are countless stories and myths that 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 causing it.   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 the Communist USSR and the Western Capitalist world. The stories, myths, and 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 can 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, and 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. It was 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 had to move to government camps and medical facilities.   There was monitoring for radiation, and many also faced isolation and therapy.   Even after the nuclear winter ended, water and soil here had traces of radiation. The government could not ever settle inhabitants in the city.   Many had 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.  It caused enormous economic damage and was a crushing blow to the nuclear industry.   In the shortest possible time, the whole city was to be empty. People could only take their documents. 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 Did Chernobyl Look Like During My Last Visit? Here is what you can expect if you visit Chernobyl today When I last visited Chernobyl, it was like returning to the distant Soviet Union.   I could still see elements of communist propaganda, personal belongings scattered on the streets, and abandoned buildings.   The hammer and sickle adorned the lanterns on the eve of the May holidays.   Toys were scattered across the schoolyard, abandoned by children in the confusion. The clock in the city showed 11:55, the time of the power outage. Nature Conquering The Human Race In Chernobyl Chernobyl visit gave me an opportunity to see how nature conquers human error. Pripyat turns into a forest.   Here is what I have seen. Shelter “Sarcophagus It covered the destroyed Unit 4 to protect the environment from continued exposure to radiation. The Exclusion Zone Excursions along this area were 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 had 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. Why And How Tourism Is Banned In Chernobyl Today Tourism to the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone drew close to 100,000 visitors in 2019 alone.  However, it came to a halt in February 2022 when Russian forces crossed into Ukraine from Belarus and occupied the plant and surrounding area within hours of the invasion beginning.   Soldiers reportedly dug military trenches directly into the ground of the Red Forest, one of the most radioactively contaminated patches of soil on the planet.  Thus, it kicked up decades-old contaminated dust in the process.   Although Russian troops withdrew after roughly a month, the occupation left lasting damage, and looters stripped research facilities of equipment in the aftermath.   The security situation has not eased since.   In early 2025, a Russian drone struck the New Safe Confinement, the $1.5 billion arch built to seal the ruined reactor for the next century.  It proved that even the site's most critical infrastructure remained vulnerable to attack.   Because of this ongoing risk, Ukrainian authorities have kept the zone closed to regular visitors, prioritizing security over tourism revenue while the war continues.   Licensed tour operators that once ran day trips and multi-day excursions have largely paused operations, with some pivoting instead to virtual tours.   Officials have signaled that reopening remains a long-term goal.   Ukraine signed decrees before the invasion aiming to develop the zone as a tourism and heritage site.  More recent memoranda between the Chernobyl plant authority and the city of Slavutych point to plans for a post-war revival.   However, there is still no lasting peace. So, only accredited journalists, scientists, and plant workers can enter Pripyat and the wider Exclusion Zone.  A Recent BBC Visit: What Happened At Chernobyl, 40 Years On In April 2026, the BBC marked the 40th anniversary of the disaster with a televised visit to the site, produced as part of its documentary What Happened at Chernobyl.   Presented by journalist Jordan Dunbar, the report retraces the events of April 1986. It also examines the reason behind concealing the data from the public for so long.   The BBC crew walked through the plant's control room. It was where the fatal decisions were made.  It also toured the surrounding area, including Pripyat, capturing footage of the abandoned apartment blocks, the overgrown boulevards, and the rusting Ferris wheel that never opened to the public.   Dunbar also spoke with two liquidators, the workers who carried out the dangerous clean-up operation in the disaster's immediate aftermath.   The documentary situates this reporting within the present, noting the continued relevance of the site amid the war in Ukraine, and traces the fallout's reach across Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia.   A companion piece, The Last Dancefloor in Chernobyl, follows a young couple and a local DJ.  On the eve of their wedding, the explosion forced an immediate evacuation.   Together, the segments offer one of the most detailed recent looks inside the Exclusion Zone.  It was possible only because journalists, unlike ordinary tourists, can still secure the accreditation needed to enter under wartime restrictions.  Practical Tips For Visiting Pripyat And Chernobyl Safely Once Pripyat is open to visitors again, follow these tips before planning a trip.   Carry A Valid Passport   Because the Exclusion Zone remains an active radiological monitoring area, every visitor must carry a valid passport.  Also, most operators require your details at least two to three days in advance.  The Ukrainian authorities need this time to process the necessary clearance.   Spontaneous, walk-up visits are not possible here the way they might be at a typical tourist attraction.  Radiological Safety   Radiation exposure on a standard one-day tour is comparable to the dose you receive on a long-haul transatlantic flight.  It is roughly 2 to 6 microsieverts. They will also give you a dosimeter to track your own exposure throughout the day.   That said, guides are strict about where you can walk.   Certain hotspots, particularly around the Red Forest and near buried machinery, register far higher readings.  Also, don’t step off marked paths or pick up objects from the ground. It is important both for radiological safety and to preserve the site for future visitors.  Be Particular About Clothing   Clothing matters more than most people expect.   Long sleeves, long trousers, and closed shoes are mandatory in all seasons.  Exposed skin picks up radioactive dust more easily than shielded surfaces.   Many tour operators also recommend clothing and shoes you do not mind discarding afterward.  And most exit checkpoints have radiation scanners that will flag anything that needs to be left behind.  Know The Best Time To Visit   Seasonally, spring and autumn offer the most comfortable walking conditions.  Mild temperatures and fewer of the biting insects appear in Pripyat's overgrown courtyards during summer.   Winter visits have their own appeal.   Snow cover mutes the color of the abandoned buildings. Winter also lends the city an even eerier stillness.  Moreover, the cold can make longer walking tours more demanding.  Know The Photography Norms  Photography is generally welcomed.  It is one of the main draws for many travelers.  However, drones require separate permits that are rarely granted.  So, don't plan around aerial shots.   It is also worth noting that mobile signal is patchy at best inside the zone.  So download offline maps and let someone outside the tour know your itinerary before you go.  Read Also: 10 Best Places To Visit In Europe Top Places To Visit In Italy On Your Next Travel Escapade

BY  Barsha 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: Top 5 Travel Tips For Your Next Trip To China