Exploring The Allure Of Holiday Getaways In Italy

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 9 Things Every Traveler Should Know When Visiting Shanghai

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 Aug 13, 2025

Key Highlights: What Is The South Of France? Why Is The South Of France So Popular? Where To Go In South Of France? How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like? Where To Stay In The South Of France? Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? What Are The South Of France Cities Near The Beach? What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France? Home to the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix and blessed with 300 days of Sunshine in a year, the South of France is the ultimate luxury tourism destination.  The region also appeals to global travelers with the best wines, such as Bordeaux, Languedoc, Cahors, and Armagnac brandy. So, it is no wonder that the South of France is a crown jewel in the French luxury tourism landscape, about to reach $53.6 billion by 2030. Moreover, the South of France is home to many luxurious hotels, chateaux, and villas, such as Le Collectionist luxury villas in Provence. These high-end accommodations cater to ultra-high-net-worth travelers and ensure a premium experience.  However, there is more to visiting the South of France. Natural abundance, cultural heritage, and great food make it a destination for wholesome travel delights.  In this Tour and Travel Blog, we will explore the various aspects of the South of France and why it is a dream destination. We will also share a 7-day itinerary so that you can plan the trip well.  What Is South Of France?  The South of France is a district region, comprising Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA), itself, is a combination of six district departments. Those are: Alpes-Maritimes Bouches-du-Rhône Alpes-de-Haute-Provence Hautes-Alpes Vaucluse Var This region caters to every type of traveler and is almost an epitome of the natural wonders we love to visit.  The French Riviera beaches complement the rugged beauty of the Alps here. On the other hand, Provence promises the most quaint experience with vineyards, small villages, and hills smelling like lavender.  You can add to that the cultural and artistic heritage of Aix-en-Provence and the cosmopolitan vibe of cities such as Avignon and Marseille. Marseille especially indulges you with the charm of the French good life, and it’s for wanderers who just want to travel slow and connect.  Bordeaux with its best wines and vineyards, Verdon Gorge with its serene green landscape, and Camargue with its wetlands and wildlife are other prominent destinations in the South of France. Why Is South Of France So Popular?  Gorgeous seaside towns The majestic Alps Roman ruins Medieval villages Long stretches of vineyards The Best wines The tranquility that makes you connect to nature! These are reasons why everyone loves the South of France. Now, nobody will take away the best from the South of France. However, some new developments make the South of France more popular among modern travelers.  1. Better Accessibility And Travel Connectivity: How To Reach The South Of France? The South of France is well connected to Paris. You can take a flight from Paris, and it takes around 90 minutes to cover the distance.  Furthermore, you can take the SNCF Connect sleeper train, running from Paris to Cannes or Nice. For a more luxurious journey, board Belmond’s Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris to Cannes.  It is an 18-hour journey with breakfast and gourmet meals.  Irrespective of the train you choose, you can buy the unlimited rail pass for the commute between Paris and the South of France.  2. Urban Improvements To Enhance The Experience Of Global Travelers  Nice has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. It now has the Promenade des Anglais, which is ideal for strolls and tourists who love to explore the city on foot.  Furthermore, today, the sidewalk looks beautiful with many trees and cafe terraces.  Moreover, the new Convention Center here just hosted the U.N. Ocean Conference 2025 in July. Also, it is likely to have a tram line directly connected to the airport and a pleasure port for excursions on boats. 3. Aix-en-Provence Is To Have New Cultural Sites And Updated Museums Atelier des Lauves, the studio of the famous French impressionist, Paul Cezanne, reopened in Aix-en-Provence on 28th June, 2025.  Also, Jas de Bouffan, his family’s home, was opened for the first time. Fondation Maeght in Saint-Paul de Vence, the first independent art foundation of France, just had an expansion to celebrate its 60th anniversary last year. After the expansion, the foundation now has an exhibition space of 5,300+ square feet.  This space shows the works of Pablo Picasso, Alberto Giacometti, and Marc Chagall.  Furthermore, Nice’s Musée Matisse reopened in 2024 after a long period of renovation work, and La Malmaison, the contemporary art exhibition space of Cannes, reopened.  4. The Celebration Of Perfume Heritage In South Of France  The South of France is the Mecca for a perfume connoisseur. The Rose et Marius in Aix-en-Provence or the factory of L’Occitane en Provence in Manosque have enhanced the tourism experience for tourists having a keen interest in fashion and perfumes.  Moreover, at Rose et Marius, you can attend a workshop and design your own perfume. On the other hand, you can register online and visit L’Occitane en Provence for a face diagnostic and get a free hand cream.  5. For The Love Of Ceramics And Pottery  Marseille, the port city of the South of France, is now emerging as the new hotspot amidst all the glamor and glitz of the French Riviera.  Since the COVID-19 era, many Parisians have also moved to Marseille for the quality of life, and the high-speed train ride to this port city from Paris is an amazing experience.  Furthermore, Aubagne, just outside this city, is a popular destination in the European ceramic landscape. Ravel Poterie, Santon Di Landro, and Louis Sicard are some important potteries here. Where To Go In South Of France?  The South of France has many options if you want to experience the ultimate French beauty. However, here are our favorite destinations in the South of France. 1. Nice And Alpes-Maritimes Nice, the capital, and Cannes are two landmark destinations in Alpes-Maritimes.  Furthermore, Nice is a cultural hub with Matisse and Chagall museums and the Promenade des Anglais.  Cannes, with its glitz and glamor and, of course, the much-celebrated film festival, is a global name in cultural tourism.  Also, this region has the town of Grasse, “The Perfume Capital of the World,” and Antibes, housing the Picasso Museum and wonderful beaches.  2. Bouches-du-Rhône And Marseille Marseille, the capital of Bouches-du-Rhône, is a crown jewel in the tourism of the South of France. Some important cultural and historical landmarks here are: Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde MUCEM museum Arles here is a standout place, being home to the Roman amphitheater and its connection with Van Gogh.  Moreover, the Camargue wetlands, with flamingos and wild horses, and the Calanques National Park with limestone cliffs are prominent natural wonders in thai region.  3. Var And Its Capital, Toulon Mediterranean coastline A vibrant nightlife Rich maritime history A beautiful harbor Var and its capital, Toulon, are famous for all these things. Furthermore, you will love the quiet beaches of Îles d’Hyères and areas like Bandol with expansive vineyards and massive production of rosé wines.  4. Avignon And Vaucluse Along with the quintessential Provençal countryside charm, Vaucluse remains an important historical and cultural landmark in the South of France.  Vaucluse, its capital, has a performing arts festival every year in July. On the other hand, Orange has one of the best preserved Roman theaters, and it still hosts many performances. Pont d’Avignon and Palais des Papes are other important landmarks in Vaucluse.  In addition, Valucluse offers you the most peaceful retreat in the Luberon region, filled with beautiful rolling hills, quaint villages like Roussillon, and vineyards.  5. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence And Digne-les-Bains With Digne-les-Bains as the capital, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is famous for thermal baths and lavender fields. It is also home to Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, and a beautiful hilltop town with a citadel, Sisteron.  Also, don’t forget to visit the Lavender Museum and the Valensole lavender plains in summer.  Moreover, if it is Jean Giono who introduced you to the South of France, you must explore Manosque, the writer’s hometown. 6. Hautes-Alpes And Gap Hautes-Alpes is famous for the beauty of the French Alps. Gap is the capital city, and Haute-Alpes is also home to the Écrins National Park, a popular summer destination for hikers thanks to its dramatic cliffs and glaciers.  Also, Hautes-Alpes has Briançon, one of the highest mountainous cities, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the Vauban fortifications.  How Does A Perfect South Of France Itinerary For 7 Days Look Like?  Here, we have made a sample 7-day itinerary for you in the South of France. As I am yet to make it to the South of France, I have made this itinerary based on my online research and after consultation with a local travel expert. 7-Day Itinerary for the South of France Activities and Places to VisitDay 1• Exploring Marseille and traveling to Aix-en-Provence• Visiting the fountains and the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-ProvenceDay 2• Visiting the Luberon Region and exploring beautiful villages such as Roussillon and GordesDay 3• A trip to the Calanques National Park, boating, and kayaking thereDay 4• Visit Nice and enjoy the vibe at the Promenade des AnglaisDay 5• Monaco day tripDay 6• Explore Antibes and its Picasso MuseumDay 7• Day trip to Cannes Where To Stay In South Of France?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Collectionist (@lecollectionist) I have already mentioned that the South of France, being a luxury tourist destination, has high-end villas such as Le Collectionist villas in Provence.  Furthermore, you will find many short-term and long-term holiday rentals for improved privacy at a more reasonable rate.  Also, Hotel Port Palace in Monte Carlo or Le Negresco in Nice are some luxurious hotels in this region.  Moreover, the Provence region, Côte d'Azur, and Languedoc-Roussillon have some amazing campsites if you want to spend your days in Southern France in the company of nature. What Is The Best Time To Visit The South Of France? April to May and September to October are the best months to visit the South of France. In April and May, you will see the lavender in full bloom, while the summer is yet to set, keeping the temperature within 20-25 degrees Celsius.  On the other hand, September to October is the ideal time to explore the beaches and other coastal getaways of the South of France.  South Of France: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions about the South of France.  1. Where To Visit In The South Of France On A Budget? If you are traveling on a budget, you can explore the following destinations in the South of France. • Antibes• Nice• Avignon• Cannes• Saint Paul de Vence• Monaco• RoussillonFurthermore, while traveling on a budget, you can choose Nice as your base. It has the most affordable holiday rentals. Also, you can easily take train trips from Nice and explore places like Monaco. Also, cook your own meals to avoid spending a fortune at expensive restaurants.  2. What Are The Most Beautiful Places In Southern France For Young Adults? From classic French Riviera destinations to a place with beautiful lemon groves, the South of France has plenty to offer to young adult tourists. Here are our favorites.• Nice with its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and of course, the Promenade des Anglais• Cannes with its boutiques and all the love for films• Saint-Tropez with its happening beach clubs and high-end shopping experience• Menton, with its vibrant buildings, lemon groves, and proximity to the Italian border 3. What Are The South Of France Cities Near Beach? Cannes, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Marseille, and Menton are the most beautiful cities near the beaches in the South of France.  4. What Is The Nicest Part Of The South Of France? Provence is the nicest part of the South of France. Artistic heritage, Roman ruins, beautiful lavender fields, great wines and food, and charming hilltop villages. Furthermore, blessed with the Mediterranean Coast and the Verdon Gorge, it is also a popular destination for watersports. 5. What Is The Safest Part Of the South Of France?  Bordeaux, Toulouse, Monaco, and Aix-en-Provence are some of the safest places to stay in the South of France. These places have low crime rates, and the chances of encountering violent crimes are pretty rare. However, the French Riviera has frequent cases of petty theft.