Interesting Facts about Australia that will surprise you!

BY  Sibashree Nov 29, 2025

Hostels run by local families are the most budget-friendly accommodation in Kotor, Montenegro. Like the cats protect the city, these hostels offer tourists a place to relax and rest.  However, as I mentioned in my Kotor Montenegro budget travel guide, the hostel I stayed in was not the most famous one. The humble place of my pen-friend (or email-friend 📧) was more than an accommodation for me. First of all, he has a lovely family, with his wife, a CA, and his business partner in this venture, and his children, kindergarten students. They were very warm, and I grew especially close to the children, and we played with cats. Furthermore, I saw a humble hostel turning into a most happening social hub in the evening. Everyone, from hikers to local business owners and artists, gathered there to talk about life, the next hiking trip, and what’s new in the city. Now, Kotor is replete with such hostels, and some of them are so famous that people know them by name. In this Kotor, Montenegro, hostel guide, I will discuss these hostels, their rates, and some essential tips. Why Did I Stay In A Hostel?  First things first. For me, Montenegro was a trip of more than 1000 kms. And I thought about visiting Montenegro mostly because I learned about it from my friend there. So, staying at my friend’s hostel, while traveling solo, was the safest option for me. The next thing was the budget. It was $20 per night and well within my budget limit. Furthermore, as Petar, my friend, had promised, I met many people with common interests there. It was like an annual meet for backpackers and digital nomads. Also, almost everything about the hostel stay was spontaneous. Somebody would say, “Let’s go for a walk on this route tomorrow,” and everything would get planned accordingly. The next day, I would discover that I was hiking on one of the most beautiful routes near Kotor, Vrmac Ridge. Someone else would bring hot pastries and share them with all the hostel members. So, my Kotor, Montenegro travel itinerary was like a community activity, where locals and visitors met for the first time, with the common goal of indulging in the most immersive experience in Kotor, Montenegro. A Kotor Montenegro Hostel Guide: Top Budget Hostels In Kotor  If you want to know about the most amazing Kotor Montenegro free activities, the hostels can function as the best information centers. These will also help you know about the best local eateries and transport tips. Nevertheless, here are the top budget-friendly hostel options in Kotor, Montenegro, that you must try.  1. Old Town Hostel  Address: Stari Grad 284, Kotor 85339, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝕆𝕝𝕕 𝕋𝕠𝕨𝕟 ℍ𝕠𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕝 𝕂𝕠𝕥𝕠𝕣 🇲🇪 (@oldtownhostelkotor) The Old Town Hostel offers the perfect fusion of budget-friendly living and historical charm. Being housed in a 13th-century building, this hostel will win you over with its stunning exterior and interior. The location of the hostel in the heart of Kotor’s Old Town further makes it a popular choice. The price of staying at this hostel is around $15-25 per night. Furthermore, the amenities at this hostel include pub crawls, a kitchen, and free Wi-Fi. In addition, it conducts tours of North and Great Montenegro. 2. Montenegro Hostel 4U  Address: Dobrota Donji Put BB, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  If you want a quiet accommodation from the hustle and bustle of city life, Montenegro Hostel 4U offers the best vibe. It has a beachfront location. So, you will have to walk for just 5 minutes from the hostel and reach the beach to soak in the Sun. Also, the nearby bakeries, supermarkets, and restaurants ensure that you have access to everything you need. This hostel has amenities such as bike rentals and a community kitchen for Kotor Montenegro cheap eats. The tariff for staying at this hostel is around $12-22 per night. 3. Hostel Pupa  Address: 254 Njegoševa, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝙃𝙊𝙎𝙏𝙀𝙇 𝙋𝙐𝙋𝘼 𝙆𝙊𝙏𝙊𝙍 (@hostelpupakotor) How about staying in a hostel inside a 150-year-old stone house? It was renovated in 2017, and today, it has six big bedrooms, two large shared bedrooms, and two lounge areas. This hostel is especially suitable for couples and solo travelers. Furthermore, it is a favorite among foodies, as it is close to six restaurants serving the best seafood and authentic local cuisine. Moreover, the hostel has free air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. In addition, you will love the bay views from the outdoor terrace of this hostel. 4. Freedom Hostel Budva  Address: 21, Old Town, 85310 ME, Cara Dušana, Budva, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by FREEDOM HOSTEL, BUDVA (@freedomhostelbudva) Freedom Hostel Budva stands out with its rustic charm. I was taking a stroll and found it beside the fourth gate of the Old Town of Budva. The hostel comes with a bicycle rental facility. Also, the guy at the reception told me that they offer tours of the Old Town and the nearby beach. The tariff here is around $15-20 per night. 5. Centrum Hostel  Address: Stari Grad 458, Kotor 85339, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Centrum Hostel Kotor (@centrumkotor) Centrum Hostel is a popular choice if you are a Dark Academia fan or a history buff who wants to enjoy the views of the Medieval Town Square. It is most suitable for digital nomads as it has stable Wi-Fi connectivity, and it exudes a fun coworking vibe. The price for staying at this hostel is $14-22 per night. The hostel offers special amenities such as live music nights, bike tours, and AC rooms. 6. Stranger Tides Hostel  Address: Dobrota 220, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  Stranger Tides Hostel is one of the most family-friendly hostels in Kotor, Montenegro. You will love the most beautiful view of the Fjord of Boka Bay from this hostel. Its quaint charm is hard to avoid as it is located inside a 1000-year-old stone house. Furthermore, walking to the beach from the hostel, with a downhill journey of around 150 meters, is a delightful experience. The famous beaches located near this hostel are Bajova Kula, Plavi Horizonti, and Orahovac. The price of staying at this hostel is around $12-20 per night. 7. Montenegro Backpackers Home  Address: 390 TRG OD Muzeja, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  The Montenegro Backpackers Home is all set to welcome travelers after a full renovation for the 2026 season. The dormitories of the hostel are air-conditioned, yet they never fail to exude the most authentic vibe.  A shared kitchen, adequate luggage storage, and organized walking tours are the main amenities offered by the hostel. The tariff of the hostel is around $15-23 per night. 8. Old Town Homestel  Address: Stari Grad, Kotor, Kotor Municipality, Montenegro  Old Town Homestel is a unique boutique-style hostel perfect for couples. The tariff of this hostel is around $16-24 per night. The hostel is located near St. John's Fortress and other major attractions of the city. It is also close to the Kotor Bay. St. Tryphon Cathedral and the Maritime Museum. 9. Guesthouse STEP  Address: Put I Bokeljske Brigade, Dobrota, Montenegro  It is a party-friendly location and famous for hosting BBQ nights. The stay price at this hostel is around $14-$21 per night.  Also, it has a beautiful terrace and a communal kitchen, which is like the heart of the hostel. 10. Kotor Nest Coliving  Address: 444, Kotor 85330, Montenegro  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kotor Nest | Coliving (@kotornest) With networking events, a dedicated workspace, and fast internet, Kotor Nest Coliving is the ultimate hostel designed for remote workers. The tariff here is $20-$30 per night. Comparing The Best Hostels In Montenegro: A Summary Table  Here is a quick comparison between the best hostels in Kotor.  Hostel NameAddress Price per Night (USD)Key Features and AmenitiesWhy Choose It?Old Town HostelStari Grad 284, Kotor 85339$15-25• Pub Crawls• Kitchen• Free Wi-Fi• Tours of North & Great Montenegro• Located in a 13th-century Building• It is at the Heart of Kotor Old TownMontenegro Hostel 4UDobrota Donji Put BB, Kotor 85330$12-22• Beachfront, • Bike Rentals• 5-Minute Walk to Beaches• Close to Bakeries, Restaurants and SupermarketsHostel Pupa254 Njegoševa, Kotor 85330$16-24• Free Wi-Fi• Outdoor Terrace with Bay Views• Housed in a 150-Year-Old Stone House• Close to 6 RestaurantsRenovated in 2017Freedom Hostel Budva21, Old Town, 85310 ME, Cara Dušana, Budva$15-20• Bicycle Rental• Tours of Old Town & Nearby Beach• Unique Rustic Charm• Located beside the Fourth Gate of Budva Old TownCentrum HostelStari Grad 458, Kotor 85339$14-22• Live Music Nights• Bike Tours• Medieval Town Square Views• Suitable for Digital Nomads• Dark Academia VibeStranger Tides HostelDobrota 220, Kotor 85330$12-20• Family-friendly• Amazing Fjord Views• Located inside a 1000-Year-Old Stone House• Near Bajova Kula, Plavi Horizonti, Orahovac Beaches150 Meters Downhill to BeachMontenegro Backpackers Home390 TRG OD Muzeja, Kotor 85330$15-23• Air-Conditioned Dorms• Walking Tours• Recently Renovated for the 2026 Season• Authentic Hostel Experience for BackpackersOld Town HomestelStari Grad, Kotor, Kotor Municipality$16-24• Boutique Style• Perfect for Couples• Near St. John's Fortress, Kotor Bay, St. Tryphon Cathedral, and Maritime MuseumGuesthouse STEPPut I Bokeljske Brigade, Dobrota$14-21• Party-Friendly• BBQ Nights• Happening Social AtmosphereKotor Nest Coliving444, Kotor 85330$20-30• Networking Events• Dedicated Workspace• Designed for Remote Workers and Digital Nomads What Are Basic Amenities Offered By The Hostels In Kotor, Montenegro? Do hostels have amenities? Yes, many people reach out to me with this question. Well, the budget hostels in Kotor will surely change your ideas about what hostels offer.  I have divided the amenities offered by the hostels into three sections. The first section covers the room and general amenities; the second, the shared facilities; and the third, the other facilities.  1. Room And General Amenities In Kotor Hostels  Seamless Connectivity: These hostels have free Wi-Fi in public areas and private rooms. So, these are very helpful for business travelers and digital nomads who have to balance work and travel.  Comfort: The budget hostels in Montenegro offer basic comforts such as air conditioning, soundproofing, and heating.  Bedding: You will get pillows, towels, blankets, and linens from the hostel authority.  Security: You can keep your personal belongings in the lockers.  2. What Are The Shared Facilities In The Kotor Hostels?  Bathrooms: Shared bathrooms with showers are available in the budget hostels.  Shared Kitchen: You will find shared kitchens with utensils, appliances, and other equipment in these hostels, such as Montenegro Backpackers Home Kotor.  However, some hostels like Hostel Pupa, Montenegro Hostel Kotor, and Hostel Old Town have a kitchenette and en-suite kitchen options.  Lounge: If you want to interact with the digital nomads, expats, or the volunteers of the hostels, you have to spend some time in the lounge areas.  These lounge areas usually have TVs and proper seating arrangements for socializing.  Laundry: Most hostels in Kotor offer laundry facilities. Centrum Hostel, Montenegro Backpackers Home Kotor, and Old Town Youth Hostel list laundry services in their list of amenities.  Dining Facilities: Most hostels offer complimentary coffee and tea. However, Hostel Old Town Kotor, Montenegro Hostel 4U, and Old Town Homestel have breakfast facilities.  3. What Are The Other Facilities Offered By The Hostels In Kotor?  Some hostels also offer bike rentals and organized tours. Furthermore, Old Town Hostel Kotor and Hostel Pupa are known for organizing pub crawl activities.  Also, Montenegro Hostel 4U and Centrum Hostel offer airport transfers and shuttle services.  Beyond The Basic Amenities: What Do The Best Hostels In Kotor, Montenegro Offer?  The budget hostels are also an extension of the cultural identity of Kotor. These play a vital role in fostering an interactive social atmosphere and community growth.  In other words, when a traveler stays in a hostel, they get a chance to interact with the local culture and different cultures of the fellow boarders. Thus, people exchange tips and ideas and develop friendships, which are the key takeaways of any backpacking experience.  Furthermore, hostels are often located inside historic buildings and usually near iconic cultural attractions. For example, the Old Town Hostel is housed inside a 13th-century historic building. It is also inside the UNESCO-protected Old Town.  Hostels like these encourage a longer stay, and with the tariff being affordable, that does not put much pressure on the budget of a backpacker. Thus, they become important hubs for authentic and deep cultural immersion and the catalysts for a slow travel movement.  So, overall, the budget hostels in Montenegro promote the following. Communal Development Development of Social Hubs Connectivity Cultural Immersion Slow Tourism Sustainable Practices  Thus, a stay in these hostels allows you to be more than a transient visitor. It allows you to take a slice of Kotor with you.  What Are The Best Neighborhoods For Hostel Stays? The most suitable locations for the hostels depend on the kind of experience you want. Primarily, the Old Town, Dobrota area, and Muo area are the best locations for staying in the budget-friendly hostels of Kotor.  On the other hand, the Dobrota area is ideal for beach access. Finally, the Muo area, with its quiet charm and scenic beauty, is an ideal location for hostels.  1. Old Town Of Kotor Staying in a budget hostel in the Old Town of Kotor gives you access to a historic and walkable area. So, you don’t have to rely much on paid transportation services.  Walking through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town or walking to the fortress walls are free and budget-friendly activities for budget travelers.  You will also get affordable meals at street food stalls and takeaway centers. 2. Dobrota Area The main attractions of Kotor are within walking distance from the Dobrota Area. Furthermore, there is a high concentration of self-catering buildings in the Dobrota Area. So, you can stay there and cook your meals, saving more money.  Furthermore, despite the southern part of Dobrota being very close to Kotor Old Town, it is a calmer locality and is less crowded.  Also, there are many supermarkets, cafes and restaurants in the Dobrota Area. So, you will not have to travel far to get enough supplies. Moreover, because of the proximity to the Kotor Old Town, you don’t need to rely heavily on paid transportation services.  3. Muo Area The Muo Area, closer to the sea, also has a promenade. You can walk through this promenade to reach the Old Town and Dobrota. You will love this scenic walk for 20-30 minutes.  In addition, some budget hostels and affordable vacation homes in this area offer a beautiful view of the Kotor Bay. What Is The Seasonal Pricing & Booking Hacks For Kotor Hostels?  Pricing HacksDetailsAverage Price Range • Dorm Beds: $14–$25 Per Night • Private Rooms: $35–$70 Per Night.(The Price May Vary During High Seasons and Holidays.) High Season • June to August• Price is 30–50% Higher in the Summer Season.• Reserve at least 4-6 Months Before Your Visit Shoulder Season • April to May and September to October• Price is 20–30% Less than the Summer Season.Off-Season • November to March• Price is $10-$15 Per Night.• Look for Lon-Stay Discounts.  What Are The Booking Hacks For Kotor Montenegro Hostels? Explore platforms such as Hostelz.com to compare hostel prices. Book hostels with free cancellation policies.  Try to find and use promo codes or seasonal codes for hostel booking. Last-minute booking, especially during the peak season, can cost more. Insider Tips For Budget Travelers  You have to take care of four aspects if you are traveling to Kotor on a budget. These four aspects or areas are: Accommodation Activities and Transportation Money Management and General Affairs Food and Drink Check out the table below for a detailed understanding. Factors to Consider for Budget TravelersInsider TipsAccommodation • Choose hostels as your accommodation.• Book one located outside the Kotor Old Town for a lower tariff. • Book a hostel in the shoulder seasons for discounts and the best deals. Activities and Transportation• Choose free activities such as walking through the Old Town or hiking to the fortress.• Be a part of a guided walking tour to know about the history of the city on a low budget. • Rely on the Public Bus System to travel cheaply. Join hostel-organized tours for discounts.Money Management and General Affairs• Carry cash for shopping from small shops and local markets. • Make sure you are meeting visa requirements. Food and Drink• Buy meals from street food stalls or local bakeries.• Choose a hostel that offers complimentary breakfast.  Safety Tips For Solo Travelers In Kotor, Montenegro The Global Peace Index 2025 has appreciated the improvement of Montenegro in the Safety and Security domain. It has recorded an improvement of 2.3 per cent in 2024.  Furthermore, Montenegro has scored 1.962 in the Societal Safety and Security domain, establishing it as a peaceful country.  Moreover, in the Global Peace Index 2025, Montenegro, with a score of 1.685, has gone up five places to secure the 34th position among 163 countries. So, the state of peace here is “High.” Naturally, Kotor, Montenegro, is safe for women and solo travelers. However, to remain safe, you must choose hostels with lockers and 24-hour reception.  Check reviews of the hostel you are planning to stay at, and do not leave your valuables in the common area.  Kotor Montenegro Hostel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers related to the Kotor, Montenegro hostel guide.  1. Are Hostels In Kotor Open Year-Round?  Yes, hostels in Kotor, Montenegro, are open year-round. However, during the winter months, November to March, many of these hostels remain open.So, you must check with the hostel you are planning to stay at over the phone.  2. How Far Are The Hostels From The Bus Stand?  The popular hostels of Kotor, Montenegro, are located around the Old Town. So, most of these hostels are around 10 to 15 minutes away from the bus stand. 3. What Is The Best Time To Book A Hostel In Kotor?  The best time to book a hostel in Kotor is around 4-6 weeks before your arrival. Following this timeline ensures that you get the best rates.If you are making a booking 48 hours before or after, you may even have to pay extra prices. 4. What Language Is Spoken In Kotor, Montenegro? People in Montenegro speak the Montenegrin language. It is a variation of the Serbo-Croatian language. Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian are other languages spoken in Montenegro.  5. Where Is Kotor Bay, Montenegro? Kotor Bay is in the southwestern part of Montenegro. Surrounded by high mountains, this bay on the Adriatic Sea is home to iconic towns such as Herceg Novi, Tivat, and Kotor. It is also the southernmost fjord of Europe. However, it was formed by a drowned river valley.  6. What is Old Town Hostel Kotor? Housed inside a 13th-century building, the Old Town Hostel is one of the most iconic budget-friendly accommodations in Kotor Old Town. It has a lively social atmosphere with daily BBQ and pool parties. It has also been named the “Best Hostel in Montenegro” by platforms such as Hostelworld.

BY  Sibashree Mar 23, 2026

Knowing where the state of Maine is can be viewed as knowing what it means to go “down east.”  By looking at a map, one would seem to be travelling in a northern/easterly direction.  However, this term has its origins steeped in maritime history. Sailors from Boston were navigating south of their port. Furthermore, they had to change their sails so that they could sail downwind on their way to Maine (also known as the Pine Tree State).  So this linguistic peculiarity now serves as an analogy to describe life along the rugged coastline of Maine and how that affects the way you live, work, and play every day. Bar Harbor, located about 155 miles northeast of Portland-Maine, is considered the “crown jewel” of Mount Desert Island.  With the option of taking highway I-95, the fastest route available from Portland, the travel is less than 3 hours to the entrance of Acadia National Park. However, I decided to take U.S. Route 1, one of the most scenic highways on the East Coast, due to its many curves, which require you to slow down and enjoy the essence of TheLowDownUnder Travel.  The scenery will reward your patience by providing a “pictorial texture” that cannot be found anywhere else in America. So, do you want to know more about the Portland Maine to Bar Harbor road trip? Here are the details.  A Time Travel In Portland’s Old Port I started my Portland Maine to Bar Harbor road trip by indulging in the largest food scene of the state.  Given the limited time in Portland (one night), I decided to spend it within the Old Port district.  When you arrive in Old Port, all of the cobblestones have been drenched in salt, which gives you the impression that you aren't going to be on vacation, but instead you have just completed a chapter in one of Herman Melville’s books. The architectural splendor of the 1800's is prominently displayed on the secure, weather-proofed, antique brick buildings and their well-worn piers. Here, tourists and local fishermen have become blurringly intermingled as one does, sharing docks and vessels of their respective types.  The Harbor is similarly blessed, with beautiful yachts docked near rusted fishing boats or lobster traps, all rocking together in unison as the water ebbs and flows with the tide. I made my way to Scales, a restaurant located in a restored warehouse that extends out onto the wharf.  Underneath its tall rafters and the large windows that covered the walls on both sides, I had my first culinary experience in the area. The Lobster Revelation Once, I was a lobster hater. I thought that a lobster was the least appealing of sea creatures, being little more than an aquatic creature that has no flavor.  A whole lobster was just a lot of work for no real taste. My experience changed dramatically with the wonder of the Portland Lobster Roll. I had the buttery, soft, and fresh buns, and delicious homemade lobster dressing on each roll.  Along with a bowl of clam chowder that was creamy and full of brine, it was the best thing in New England. The next day, I discovered another type of local genius at the Holy Donut. It is a "closet-sized" donut shop that features a "Maine [mashed] potato" as its secret ingredient.  This potato gives the donuts their incredibly moist, dense texture and flavor.  After sharing a [dark chocolate] donut and a [fresh-squeezed] lemon donut on a bench by the harbor, I saw a larger freighter passing through the morning fog. It was a sweet beginning to continue my trek north. Mastering Slow Travel From Portland Maine To Bar Harbor Through Route 1  Leaving the Portland area behind, I started heading north. The GPS wanted me to go back to I-95, but I went along the less popular Highway 1. The road quickly became a narrow, two-lane, winding road.  I continued to go through nearly empty dense pine forests. Some of the open areas had light-coloured wooden houses. It was a drive that forced us to take in all the little stuff. The light on a weather vane! The woodsmoke mixed with salt air! Now, this is the perfect kind of trip you can plan for your last-minute spring break.  Maine is also one of the best places to visit in the fall and winter, thanks to its apple orchards and crimson colors.  Moreover, it is among the top spots to see the Northern Lights in the USA.  1. Finding Flannel In Freeport My first stop was Freeport, which changed from a dying industrial mill to a shopping centre. It is also the home to the 'mecca of plaid,” L.L. Bean. The company began as Leon Leonwood Bean’s attempt to keep hunters’ feet dry, and is now an outdoor industry giant.  The Freeport campus is large, with separate buildings for hunting, fishing, and skiing.  After wandering through aisles of rugged gear, I came out "dressed the part" in a nice green and blue plaid shirt.  I also slipped into Sea Bags, where old sailcloth is recycled into trendy nautical totes, showing that Maine’s maritime history is also a part of its contemporary economy. 2. Naval Giants And Lobster Jams  Continuing north, I crossed the Kennebec River and entered Bath. The city is not dominated by tall buildings, but by the enormous cranes at Bath Iron Works.  Since 1890, this shipyard has constructed close to 5,000 vessels, including the most advanced stealth destroyers for the Navy.  The hulking ships at the shipyard reminded me of the industrial history of the state. In the city of Woolwich, there is another type of giant. At the Taste of Maine restaurant, there is a 70-foot giant lobster. This creepy installation is the perfect precursor to the traffic jam I was about to encounter in Wiscasset. Wiscasset is the prettiest town in Maine, and food lovers know it for the traffic jam it creates with Red's Eats.  This food trailer with a striped awning is in a prime location, and the line is over a block and a half long.  After a 45-minute wait, I received my bun, and to my surprise, there was so much lobster on it that it was nearly impossible to see the bun. 3. Harbors And Hidden Gems On The Way From Portland Maine to Bar Harbor While technically off Route 1, any coastal trip would require a stop at Boothbay Harbor. The town's history speaks through its winding, narrow streets, lined with aged buildings that tell their stories. Before the Cow sat on a souvenir. After a jam, toy, and gift shop stroll, I made the encounter with coastal popcorn at the bench with haywire lobster traps, while the fleet of skiff passengers was in a hurry. Pure Maine's untidy delight jingled at me. The Hunt For Local Flavor Driving up Lincolnville became a search for more local and primarily lobster-filled McLaughlin’s Lobster Shack, and some new chips.  The gulls at the bay skimmed the water and the salt and mud scent left with the tide as I pulled the slaw and fries shrimp dinner up to the table under the sun. 4. Engineering Marvels And Military Shadows While driving towards Bucksport, my journey brought me to a massive engineering structure, the Penobscot Narrows Bridge.  The majestic cable-stayed bridge, with its webbed steel-and-cable strands, also features a tower with an observation deck at 437 feet. The elevator ride to the top of the bridge is a mere minute, and the view is a breathtaking 360-degree sight of the river valley, the Bucksport Village, and the Fort Knox granite walls. The Other Fort Knox Maine's Fort Knox is unlike its gold-named counterpart in Kentucky.  This fort defended the Penobscot River Valley from British Navy invasions in the mid 1800s.  I spent an hour exploring 144 acres while using our phone flashlights to navigate what one reviewer called a “catacomb of dark, forbidding tunnels'' beneath the walls.  The massive black cannons that never saw combat remain overseers to the river as silent sentinels. 5. Destination: Bar Harbor And Acadia  After exploring leisurely for 175 miles over 9 hours, I arrived at Mount Desert Island.  I checked into the historic Bar Harbor Inn, which sits along Frenchman Bay.  The next day, I started my "Down East" pace by walking along the Shore Path (1.5 miles), which leads past the “cottages” (the term used by locals to describe their sprawling Gilded Age mansions). I also visited prehistoric formations like Balance Rock. It is a glacial erratic that has been precariously balanced on the shore for more than 10,000 years!  The Wilds Of Acadia  Just up the road from my hotel was Acadia National Park, my favorite among the Maine national parks.  This majestic national park has 47,000 acres of stunning granite peaks with ocean views.  I spent the day hiking part of the park's 120 miles of trails. The carriage roads of the facility were amazing.  To end my adventures, I went to Atlantic Brewery and their BBQ restaurant. I had Mainely Meat there (yes, that is an accurate description)!  For dessert, I enjoyed a flight of locally brewed ales, which were a perfect nightcap!  The blueberry ale was sweet and highlighted Maine's most famous crop. However, the highlight was the Bar Harbor Real Ale, a nutty brown ale with an enormous malty backbone.  The Real Ale complemented my platter of slow-roasted and smoked meats, which were my perfect "last supper" in the woods. Overall, the Portland Maine to Bar Harbor was a fulfilling experience with nature and great food. 

BY  Sibashree Aug 2, 2024

Paris is the land of multiple World Heritage Sites, such as the Eiffel Tower and Château de Versailles and many other structures showing the excellence of French architecture. So, there is no wonder that Paris is transforming historical sites into Olympic venues.  However, there are multidimensional aspects behind choosing these important sites or places of tourist attractions as Olympic venues. Of course, it’s a brilliant move to boost tourism in the “World’s Most Powerful City Destination.” The Travel and Tourism Sector of Paris was worth a whopping $36BN USD in 2022.   Further, choosing these sites as Olympic venues has a sustainability aspect. It’s an endeavor to reduce the carbon footprint drastically and make the Paris Olympics the “Greenest Olympics” ever.   Are you traveling to Paris and have plans to catch up on the Olympic events? Get your travel plan right by knowing the historical places to visit, why they are significant travel destinations, and how choosing them as Olympic venues is a sustainable move.   Paris Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues (Make Changes In Your Travel Plans)  https://www.instagram.com/p/C95mF-atRPK/?img_index=1 Various historical sites in Paris have become the stage for gala Olympic events. So, know the historical places to visit if you are traveling to Paris now and want to enjoy the games and the history of the iconic city altogether.   Here, you will first see a table mentioning the historical venues and the Olympic events that will take place there. Later, you will find brief descriptions of the historical importance of these places.  1 Historical Site Olympic 2024 Event  The Seine River The Olympics Opening Ceremony Men’s Marathon Swimming Competition (Tentatively on 8th and 9th August 2024 After Postponement) Eiffel Tower Stadium  Beach Volleyball and Blind Football Pont Alexandre III Triathlon, Para triathlon, Swimming Marathon, and Individual Cycling Time Trials The Grand Palais Taekwondo and Fencing Château de Versailles Equestrian events from July 27th to August 11th and from September 3rd to 7th, 2024 The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92) Field Hockey Games   It All Begins On The Seine River With The Opening Ceremony   Best Time To Visit The Seine River: June-August  The 2024 Olympics has seen the most unusual opening ceremony held on the Seine River. The river is named after Sequana, a Celtic Goddess.   Further, this river has been an important bearer of French culture, identity, and life. l'école de Honfleur, one of the most prominent impressionist movements in France, was inspired by this river.   Also, as you take a boat ride in this river, you can see the most iconic monuments in the city. Looking at the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum is surely going to be a lifetime experience for you. The Sainte Chapelle and Cathedral of Notre Dame are other significant pieces of architecture that can be seen from the river.   The Eiffel Tower Stadium   https://www.instagram.com/olympics/reel/C9SCB2DCNrt/ Best Season To Visit The Eiffel Tower Stadium: June to September  Are you looking for “Paris tourist sites Olympics 2024?” Visit the Eiffel Tower Stadium on the Champ-de-Mars. Beach volleyball games at this venue are already gathering a lot of attention, with tourists finding the place “Instagrammable.”   The Eiffel Tower is the stadium and is often interpreted as the tangible form of the human desire to reach the sky. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, and today it is the most visited “paid monument” in the world.   Pont Alexandre III  Best Season to Visit: September to April  Pont Alexandre III is a bridge named after Russian Tsar Alexandre III, and it celebrates the historic alliance between Russia and France. This year, the bridge will be entering its 125th year as it was built between 1896 and 1900 for the “1900 World Fair.”   With a steel base, the bridge stands out for its gold-plated statues of bronze, cast-iron lamps, and stone pillars.   The Grand Palais  Best Season to Visit: September to June  The Grand Palais is dedicated to the “glory of French Art.” It was built in 1900 for the Universal Exhibition. Exactly 100 years after its foundation, the Grand Palais got its designation as a historic monument in 2000.   This architectural excellence was made with glass, stone, and steel. It portrays an excellent fusion of the Baroque style and classicism.   Further, the polychrome friezes in the ceramics and mosaics, iconic statutes, and embellishments tell fascinating stories about the excellence of French architecture and art.   Château de Versailles  Best Season to Visit: April to October  The Château de Versailles is a World Heritage Site (designated in 1979) with its grounds and gardens. It is the official residence of the French King and also the largest Château in the world. Further, it is the greatest outcome of the 17th century French Art.  Built by King Louis XIV, the palace today has a magnificent presence covering 63,154 m2 area. However, the Château de Versailles is not just a remarkable site for its magnanimousity. It also stands tall for its creative excellence and originality.   Moreover, the Château de Versailles was  “The absolute seat of power of the monarch, Versailles was the best formulated and best adapted crucible for French court life for a century and a half (Louis XIV perfectioned “etiquette”) and artistic creation in the domain of music, theatre and the decorative arts. Numerous scientific discoveries were presented there, encouraged by the kings, founders of royal academies.”  The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92)  Best Season to Visit: Any Season  The Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Colombes (92) makes history as one of the rarest venues to host two Olympic games. It was the main venue for the 1924 Summer Olympics, and this year, it will host the field hockey games.   The stadium gets its name from Yves du Manoir, a noted French rugby player.   Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues: An Important Aspect Of Sustainable Promises   Paris Olympics 2024 promotes and practices the complete use of renewable energy. The locally sourced renewable energy is a fruit of the Olympics’ goal of maintaining sustainability. If you are traveling to different Olympic venues in Paris, you will notice the following sustainable practices.  No use of diesel generators  Connection to the grid, enabling the use of sustainable energy  Solar panels in the Aquatics Centre and Olympic Village  Geothermal cooling systems in the Olympic Village (No use of traditional airconditioning system)  Use of recyclable material in building the Aquatics Centre, the only new permanent venue   More Insight Into Sustainable Transformation Of The World’s Most Iconic Tourist Sites Into Olympic Venues In 2024  Further, the International Olympic Committee and Paris are abiding by the promise of sustainability by transforming historical sites into Olympic venues. In the Paris Olympics 2024, 95% of the events will take place at existing historical sites or buildings. This is a conscious decision to practice economic and environmental sustainability.  2, 3 Overall, the Paris Olympics 2024, by transforming historical sites into Olympic venues and using renewable energy, is trying to be the “greenest Olympics ever.” The plan is to reduce the carbon emissions to half in comparison to the previous chapters in London, Rio, and Tokyo (2012, 2016, 2020).   The Committee is particular about its commitment to legacy planning. Further, the reuse of infrastructures is going to be a crucial factor in making the events carbon neutral.   In addition, by choosing the historical sites in Paris as Olympic venues, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) takes one step forward in its effort to minimize the environmental impact of the game. This IOC initiative has been going on since 2017.   Paris organizers, however, made their stance clear on converting historical sites into temporary Olympic venues in 2016. In a report to the International Olympic Committee, they wrote,   “Temporary venues in iconic locations, which will see the city’s greatest sites transformed into stunning stages for sport and embedding the Games in the public domain.”  Along with practicing sustainability, this move has been a wonderful way to impress spectators and get more advertisers and sponsors on board.   Olympics On Mind: Space Travel And The Greatest Sports Event  The frenzy for the Summer Olympics 2024 in Paris reaches the sky. The six living astronauts in the International Space Station showed that they had the Olympics on their minds.   Jeanette Epps, Mike Barratt, Sunita Williams, Tracy Caldwell Dyson, and Butch Wilmore kickstarted their mini Olympics in space by passing the Olympic torch.   In the July 26th video published by NASA, we get to see how the astronauts playfully gear up for their events. Jeanette Epps and Sunita Williams shook up their arms, and Butch Wilmore gulped a water globule roaming around his head. Then, he stretched his upper body.   Sunita Williams further showed some gymnastics moves to up the Olympic spirit in space. However, Butch Wilmore shot-putting a duct tape ball and Mike Barratt launching a discus were the highlights of the fun activities in space.   Matthew Dominick, the NASA scientist currently living off Earth, has said, “Over the past few days on the International Space Station, we've had an absolute blast pretending to be Olympic athletes.” The activities were more fun because of the weightlessness in the space.  4 Who knew that there would be a marriage of space travel and the Olympics like this?   Final Words   With Paris transforming historical sites into Olympic venues, it’s time to plan a trip to the French capital from 26th July to 11th August.  It’s time you enjoy the greatest sports events and encounter the best chapters of French history at once. These picturesque locations are also great for clicking photographs for posterity and garnering attention on your socials. Also, visiting these places this season can be a small contribution on your behalf to acknowledging the importance of sustainability in travel, tourism, and gala events.   So, are you planning to visit Paris during the Olympics? Bon voyage! Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13 Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit! [Updated 2024]