Tourism City In The South Of France: What To Do In Marseille?

BY  Barsha Aug 11, 2023

When it comes to planning a holiday getaway, few destinations rival the charm and allure of Italy. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and romantic ambiance, Italy has captured the hearts of travelers worldwide. This article delves into why spending your holidays in Italy is an unforgettable experience, particularly when you rely on specialized agencies such as Italia Sweet Italia, that will take you to the most beautiful places and sample all the culinary delights. Italy has long captured the hearts of globetrotters, offering a perfect blend of history, art, and stunning landscapes. Among its many charming regions, Abruzzo and Puglia emerge as hidden gems, each with its distinct allure. Abruzzo: Where Nature and History Converge Exploring Abruzzo's Majestic Mountains Nestled in the Apennine Mountains, Abruzzo boasts breathtaking natural beauty. From the Gran Sasso peaks to the rugged beauty of the Majella National Park, this region offers a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Tracing History through Medieval Villages Abruzzo's history comes to life in its medieval villages. Villages like Santo Stefano di Sessanio and Scanno transport visitors back in time with their cobblestone streets and ancient architecture. Exploring these villages offers a glimpse into the region's rich past. Savoring Abruzzo's Gastronomic Treasures No visit to Abruzzo is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. Delight your taste buds with dishes like "arrosticini" - succulent skewers of lamb - and "maccheroni alla chitarra," a pasta specialty unique to the region. Puglia: A Coastal Gem Basking in Puglia's Stunning Beaches Puglia, on the other hand, lures travelers with its stunning coastline. Crystal-clear waters and golden sands await at beaches like Baia dei Turchi and Porto Selvaggio. Relaxing by the sea and soaking in the Mediterranean sun is a must-do here. Immersing in the Trulli Mystique Puglia's iconic Trulli houses in Alberobello are a sight to behold. These cone-shaped dwellings are not only charming but also carry historical significance. Exploring the narrow streets and staying in a Trullo provides a unique and immersive experience. Indulging in Puglia's Authentic Cuisine Puglia's cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. From the famous "orecchiette" pasta to the exquisite olive oil, the flavors of Puglia are deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. Comparing Abruzzo and Puglia As you consider these two regions for your Italian getaway, let's compare their distinct features: Landscape Diversity: Mountains vs. Coastline Abruzzo captivates with its mountainous terrain, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers. In contrast, Puglia's allure lies in its expansive coastline, inviting travelers to relax by the sea. Architectural Marvels: Medieval Villages vs. Trulli Houses Abruzzo's medieval villages showcase architectural heritage, while Puglia's Trulli houses offer a unique glimpse into the past, making both regions historically intriguing. Culinary Delights: Gastronomic Contrasts Abruzzo's hearty dishes reflect its mountainous landscape, while Puglia's cuisine highlights its coastal bounty. Both promise an unforgettable culinary journey. Choosing Your Ideal Italian Getaway When deciding between Abruzzo and Puglia, consider your interests. Are you drawn to history, mountain vistas, and medieval charm? Abruzzo might be your match. If sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and unique architecture captivate you, Puglia could be your dream destination. Conclusion Abruzzo and Puglia await your exploration in the heart of Italy's enchanting landscapes. Whether you seek the rugged beauty of mountains or the soothing embrace of the Mediterranean coastline, these regions promise a holiday of captivating experiences, rich history, and unforgettable flavors. Read Also: Common Pitfalls Of Destination Wedding In Italy And How To Avoid Them How Much Time To Spend In Italy Best Places To Visit In Italy

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  Sibashree Nov 25, 2025

My trip to Kotor, Montenegro, is filled with memories of the cats, who are the guardians of the city, and the smell of dew-drenched leaves as I went for a sunrise hike.  Also, along with being a hidden gem in the sustainable tourism scenario after a successful sustainability assessment by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), it has also emerged as the ultimate budget-friendly location of Montenegro.  In this blog, I will discuss a 3-day travel itinerary for Kotor, Montenegro, including hidden gems and essential tips. Why Visit Kotor, Montenegro? The International Trade Administration has confirmed that the tourism sector in Montenegro contributes 30% to the country’s GDP. In addition, ReportLinker predicts that the number of visitors to Montenegro will reach 3.4 million by 2028.  The same report anticipates that the tourism industry will reach a revenue of $95 million by 2028.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, With Great Food, Community, Beauty, And Historical Charm Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the crown jewel of tourism in Montenegro. The deep bay waters here resemble the Nordic fjords. On the other hand, the coastal cliffs create the perfect backdrop for the city, exuding a medieval charm.  Now, Kotor and Montenegro as a country are planning to diversify their tourism portfolio, with a greater focus on cultural, ecotourism, and rural tourism.  In addition, the budget-friendly hostels in Kotor are more than cheap accommodations. They are the base for developing a backpackers' community.  Many of these hostels help you join pub crawls, hikes, local events, and more. As a result, Kotor, Montenegro, has become a favorite among backpackers, budget travelers, and solo travelers.  In addition, the rugged beauty of the Dinaric Alps meets the calmness of the Adriatic Sea in Kotor, Montenegro. So, every nook of Kotor is ideal for a photo-op.  Moreover, for me, exploring the maze of medieval lanes and the Venetian architecture was like time travel. Also, St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, stands as the eternal witness of human history in Kotor.  Furthermore, the family-run taverns here serve the most delicious yet simple food at an affordable price. Try the savory pastries! What Is The Best Time To Visit Kotor Montenegro? July and August are the peak months for visiting Kotor, Montenegro. However, if you want to travel to Kotor, Montenegro, on a budget, you need to plan a trip between November and February.  You will enjoy watersports and skiing in these months, and accommodations are available at a much more affordable price.  How To Get To Kotor & Move Around On A Budget? The Tivat Airport, 7 km away, is the gateway for Kotor to the rest of the world. You can travel this 7 km distance by road.  Other nearby airports to Kotor, Montenegro, are Dubrovnik Airport (Croatia, 44 km) and Podgorica Airport (40 km). In addition, Podgorica and Kotor get regular flights from countries such as Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia.  Once you reach Kotor, you can explore the city and its surroundings in a boat. Don’t miss Perast on the route, as this village has fewer than 300 people, and it stands out with amazing scenic beauty.  Taxis, shuttles, and car rentals are other options if you want to explore Kotor by road. 3-Day Budget Itinerary For Kotor, Montenegro Here is a brief 3-day budget itinerary for Kotor, Montenegro. I will first share the days and activities, and then discuss why these attractions are special.  DaysActivitiesDay 1 - Exploring Kotor Old Town• Wandering through cobblestone streets.• Visiting St. Tryphon Cathedral.• Climbing the City Walls for panoramic viewsInsider Tip: Visit the City Walls early for a discounted entry. Day 2 - Visiting Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks• Taking a local bus to Perast.• Boat ride to the iconic island church.• Enjoying budget-friendly seafood at a local konoba.Day 3 - Visiting Lovćen National Park & Njeguši Village• Hiking or taking a shared taxi to Lovćen.• Visiting Njeguši for a traditional prosciutto and cheese tasting. 1. Exploring Kotor Old Town And City Walls Here are some interesting and unknown facts about Kotor Old Town and City Walls.  The Old Town's fortification system stretches 4.5 km. So, it is one of the longest fortification systems in Europe. It only follows the Great Wall of China.  You have to climb 1350 steps to reach the San Giovanni Fortress. The entry fee is €8. However, you can also take the secret route via the old trade path outside the northern gate. It’s free.  The Sea Gate Inscription above the main gate is a quote from Tito: “We don’t want others’, we don’t give our own”, commemorating liberation from Nazi occupation in 1944. Furthermore, the Pillar of Shame, hidden in a square, reminds us of a brutal activity in the city in the past. Criminals were tied to this pillar, and everyone used to throw stones and rotten food at them as a mark of punishment.  2. Visiting St. Tryphon Cathedral Built in 1166, the St. Tryphon Cathedral is even older than the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It is one of the most ancient cathedrals on the Adriatic Coast. The cathedral has a 14th-century ciborium, which depicts the life of St. Tryphon. It is made of a red stone from Đurići. The goldsmiths of Kotor made the golden altarpiece of the cathedral in the 15th century. It has the figures of Christ, Virgin Mary, and 16 saints.  A devastating earthquake struck Kotor in 1667. Then, the bell tower of the cathedral fell, and it could not be rebuilt fully. Thus, the current cathedral structure is shorter by 2 meters than the original one.  In 2009, the St. Tryphon Cathedral got the status of a Papal Basilica. It is a rare honor for churches in the Balkan region. 3. Visiting Perast The 2-km-long main street of Perast was once a cultural hub during the days of the Venetian Republic.  The bell tower of St. Nicholas Church was built at a cost of 50000 Ducats in the 18th century. It was an unbelievable amount in that era.  Perast once stood as a reflection of the wealth in the Venetian Era. It had 16 palaces and 19 churches.  4. Knowing Our Lady Of The Rocks Rocks have piled up for centuries, and those rocks, along with sinking ships, have formed Our Lady of the Rocks, the only artificial island in the Adriatic Region.  The Fašinada festival is a popular ritual here, with its history dating back to 1452. It is a tradition to celebrate the island's foundation. Every 22nd July, the people of the island gather in decorated boats and they throw stones into the sea, as a symbolic exercise.  Furthermore, the Catholic church here has a tapestry made by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović. It was made using human hair, and Jacinta Kunić-Mijović made this tapestry while waiting 25 years for her fiancé to return from the sea.  The church also has the Death of the Virgin. It is a masterpiece by Tripo Kokolja. In total, the church has 68 paintings from Tripo Kokolja. 5. Visiting Lovćen National Park The Njegoš Mausoleum at Jezerski Vrh is one of the main attractions of the Lovćen National Park. Located at an altitude of above 1,660 meters, it is allegedly the highest mausoleum in the world.  200,000 Gilded tiles cover the dome of the mausoleum, and 13-ton granite statues of Montenegrin women guard the entrance of the national park.  Once you climb 461 steps and reach the top of the Mausoleum, you will enjoy panoramic views stretching toward Italy.  6. Exploring Njeguši Village It is the cradle of the royal Petrović-Njegoš dynasty of Montenegro. This family ruled over Montenegro from 1696 to 1918. Furthermore, it has the birthplace of Petar II Petrović Njegoš and many other 19th-century buildings. The birthplace of Petar II Petrović Njegoš is now a museum housing the first edition of his poem, Mountain Wreath, and original furniture. How Much Does A 3-day Trip To Kotor Cost On A Budget? Here is a detailed breakdown of the budget for a 3-day trip to Kotor, Montenegro.  CategoryBudget Cost (EUR)DetailsAccommodation (Hostel)€15–€25 per night, meaning €45–€75 for 3 nightsHostel prices are even lower from November to FebruaryLocal Transportation€6–€12 total• Local buses (€1–2 per ride). • Short taxi/shared rides within the bay (€3–5). • Free walking inside Old Town.Airport Transfers€8–€15 each way, meaning €16-€30• Airport transfer from Tivat is the cheapest.• From Dubrovnik/Podgorica, it will be at least €20-€35. Food (Budget Travelers)€15-€25 per day. So, it will be €45 to €75 in total. Choose Konobas & bakeries: • Pastries (€1–2), • Seafood Meals (€7–10)• Wine/Beer (€2–3)Activities and Entry Fees€20–€35 total• City Walls (€8, discounted early)• St. Tryphon Cathedral (€3)• Perast boat (€5–10) • Lovćen shared taxi/hike (€5–10)Day Trip to Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks€7–€12• Bus to Perast (€1–2), boat (€5–10)Lovćen National Park Day TripFree–€10• Free if hiking; €5–10 for shared taxi. • Mausoleum entry ~€5.Miscellaneous (water, snacks, souvenirs)€10–€20• Refillable water recommendedCollect small souvenirs €3–5.Total Estimated Budget for 3 days €139–€239• This is a cost breakdown for budget travelers. However, the budget for mid-range and luxury travelers will be different.  Day Trips & Hidden Gems Near Kotor Gornji Stoliv: It is a quiet coastal village. Vrmac Ridge: You will enjoy this scenic hike, and it is less crowded.  Church of Our Lady of Health: This chapel has a serene ambiance, and because of its location on a hilltop, it is often overlooked by tourists.  Vrmac Ridge: It is famous for the WWII bunkers, and it offers a beautiful panoramic view.  Blue Cave: It is a natural wonder of Kotor, Montenegro, and this natural sea cave has the most beautiful sapphire light and glow. You can reach the cave only by boat.  Secret Wine Bars: These secret wine bars are in the alleys of the Old Town. These places serve the best rakija and Montenegrin wines. Final Tips For Your Montenegro Getaway Kotor, Montenegro, gets busy in the summer season. Furthermore, early mornings are the busiest with the cruises docking in heavy numbers.  Also, there are some tips about the weather and travel you need to keep in mind.  Carry offline maps, as network connections may not always work.  Keep cash and small coins ready, as card transactions may not be accepted in local shops.  You must start hiking the steep route of the San Giovanni Fortress early in the morning to avoid the heat.  Use local buses for transportation, as they cost only €1–2 per ride.  Evenings are cool even in the summer season. So, you will have to pack layered clothes.  Dress modestly in churches, avoid loud behavior in Old Town squares, and learn basic Montenegrin greetings like “Hvala.” meaning Thank you. Choose konobas or local taverns for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They are way affordable than the posh restaurants in the Old Square.  Kotor Montenegro Travel Itinerary For 3 Days: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Kotor, Montenegro travel itinerary.  1. Is Kotor, Montenegro, Worth Visiting For 3 Days? Yes, three days are perfect to explore Kotor Old Town, Perast, Lovćen National Park, and enjoy hidden gems without rushing.The budget for your three-day travel in Kotor will be around €139–€239, and Kotor is safe for solo travelers if you follow the basic travel precautions.  2. Can I Visit Kotor On A Day Trip From Dubrovnik? Yes, you can visit Kotor on a day trip from Dubrovnik. However, if you want to at least try its best food and soak in the vibe of the Old Town, you must plan for an overnight stay.  3. Do I Need A Visa To Visit Montenegro? If you are from the USA or a country that is part of the European Union, you will not need a visa to visit Montenegro. If you are from any of these countries, you can enter Montenegro and stay there for 90 days without a visa. You must check the visa requirements of your country.  4. Are There Budget-Friendly Accommodations In Kotor? Yes, the guesthouses in Dobrota and hostels such as the Old Town Hostel Kotor are some of the most budget-friendly accommodations in Kotor, Montenegro. The hostel prices will be around 15-25 Euros per night.  5. What Are The Must-Try Local Foods In Kotor? Kotor is famous for its seafood, and you can have it at local taverns or konobas. Furthermore, if you are in Njeguši, you must try prosciutto, a dry-cured ham with a lot of flavors. Moreover, burek, or the savory pastry, is the highlight of the delicacies of Kotor.  6. Do I Need To Rent A Car In Kotor?  No, you don’t need to rent a car in Kotor, Montenegro if you are a budget traveler. Local buses and shared taxis are easily available, and they are even suitable for day trips to Perast and Lovćen. Otherwise, you can take the boat rides, which are also quite affordable.