Best Places of Interest - Page 117 of 184

December 28, 2016 Round the world, Travel

A Traveler’s Guide in Visiting The Best Places in Europe

It is known to many that Europe is one of the most beautiful places to go to especially for people who love to roam around the world. There are actually six countries of Europe that are part of World Atlas’ Top 10 Most Visited Countries in The World with France being ranked as #1.

There is no question that Europe is one of the most frequented continents in the world because of its breathtaking landmarks, historical architecture, friendly locals, delicious cuisine and rich culture. Also, most of the grand and luxurious places are there. Apart from these are unspoilt spots in Europe that you may visit if you are looking for relaxation and peace of mind.

Places to visit in Europe — (photo source: weheartit.com)

WHEN TO GO

If you ask constant travellers about the best time to travel Europe, they’d probably say “anytime!”. With the beauty of Europe, there isn’t really a specific best time to visit because every single day is a great time to visit that place. But of course, it is still necessary to know the weather condition of a certain place before going so that you can avoid being bothered by unforeseen bad climate.

Europe is usually packed with tourists during the months of June-August because it’s summer. If you want to experience the winter season, then you should visit during the months of December-February in the Northern Hemisphere and June-August for the Southern Hemisphere part. But if you want to have a memorable and enjoyable stay, it is ideal to visit Europe during the months of May, June and September. Aside from the lesser crowds and good weather, the prices in all forms are cheaper and reasonable which is convenient for backpackers and budget travellers.

Transportation in Europe — (photo source: thesavvybackpacker.com)

MODES OF TRANSPORTATION

There are direct flights going to Europe from different airline companies around the world. When you arrive in Europe, there are metered taxis available that can take you to your hotel accommodation. Usually, the safe and reliable ones are in top countries like France, Italy, Germany, Greece, Spain and much more. Most of the time, if you book a tour package online, you will be fetched by your hotel’s vehicle from the airport grounds going to your chosen place.

Trains are also a good mode of transportation in Europe. Most travellers use this to cross one country to another border. There are a lot of train companies that offers good service. There is this ticket called Eurail pass which can be used as a mode of transport to travel across Europe’s best places. It is highly recommended to buy your ticket online before arriving at your destination. The only downside of using trains is that it will take you long hours before you arrive at your place, but it is still a much realistic and cheaper option than booking a pricey plane ticket for a one hour flight.

Hotels in Europe — (photo source: hotel-r.net)

Where to stay in #Europe #travel

There are many extravagant and affordable accommodations in Europe, especially in top destinations like France, Germany, Italy, Greece and Spain. Here are just some of the most recommended hotels by travellers across the globe:

Hotel Vert – If you are coming to France, this is the perfect hotel for you. This simple hotel is situated in the heart of Le Mont – Saint-Michel just about one kilometre away from the northwestern coast and just a walk away from the great Mont Saint Michel Abbey. Price ranges from 69€ inclusive of breakfast buffet, free wi-fi access and bike rentals.
Hotel Eiffel Seine – This hotel is great for those who doesn’t want to move away from the heart of France. Price ranges from 95€ inclusive of free breakfast and wi-fi plus the wonderful view of the Eiffel Tower from your balcony.
B&B Hotel Koblenz – This hotel is a great deal for people visiting Koblenz in Germany because aside from the hotel being great, you are also close to the vineyards and the gateway of the castles of the Rhine Gorge. Price ranges from 65€.
Arion Athens Hotel – This is one of the most affordable hotels in Athens, Greece. Availing a room here is a great way to maximise your stay in Athens because this hotel is just a few minutes away from the top destinations in Greece like the Acropolis Monument and Parthenon. Price ranges from 56€.
Hotel Ibis Como – Como, Italy is one of the most picturesque places on earth. To live there is every traveller’s dream and through Hotel Ibis Como, you will be able to experience being a resident of Como even just for a short period of time. This is one of the most recommended hotels in Como. Price ranges from 50€ inclusive of free breakfast.
Hotel Europark – This is one of the closest hotels to the very famous Basilica I Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família. Hotel Europark is just at the centre of Barcelona and is not far from shopping malls and restaurants. Price ranges from 65€.

Many travellers prefer to book hotels near tourist attractions so they won’t have to spend much on transportation anymore, especially if you can just walk to get there. While others are fond of looking for cheap and affordable hotels, there are also a lot of people who are saving up money just to experience the many luxury hotels across Europe. It really depends on the person, what matters is that you enjoy and make use of your time efficiently during your vacation.

Author Bio:
Mark Aldrin Hipolito is a daytime writer for Slow Tours, an Australian online agency that provides intimate getaways with tours of Europe’s most charming and breathtaking places. Mark also enjoys travelling to different places and he uses his experiences as inspiration for writing.

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December 26, 2016 Lifestyle

8 Questions To Ask When Booking A Family-Friendly Hotel This Holiday Season

8 TIPS ON HOW TO BOOK A FAMILY - FRIENDLY #HOTEL THIS #SEASON

Ah, Christmas – the most wonderful time of the year where families are brought together. The ice-cold holiday season paves the way for family members to snuggle in their cosy homes, sing beautiful Christmas carols, exchange presents, and share a warm banquet next to a comforting fireplace. While most families stick to their annual Christmas traditions, others try to make the remaining days of 2016 memorable by going on a vacation, seeing new and exciting views, and dwelling in their temporary homes – hotels.

Just remember that not all hotels are the same. If you’re travelling with kids, it’s a no-brainer to look for a family-friendly hotel for accommodation. Clearly, something that says “intimate and romantic” and “off-limit to children” aren’t ideal for a family accommodation. But aside from these common red flags, how will you know if the hotel you’re going to book is a family-friendly one? Before signing your family up, start asking these 8 questions.

8 tips on how to book a family-friendly hotel this Holidayseason

How is the ambience?

Hearing a symphony of jackhammers next door is the last thing you’d want in your holiday vacation. What will make it worse is the old air-conditioning unit that doesn’t help to cool the air. No matter how beautiful the interiors are, all will fail when the ambience sucks. Always ask for the things you’d see, hear, feel, and smell during your stay, whether it’s good or bad.

2. Is there a free wi-fi?

Free internet connectivity is a holy grail for teens and tweens. You’d love them to update their social media status with real-time photos and message their friends regarding the fun they’re having, but you’d also don’t want to destroy your budget. Most hotels have free wi-fi in the foyer but try to look for the ones that include connectivity in the rooms as well.

Where is the hotel located?

It’s not just about what’s in there but about where it’s located. When boredom strikes, your kids have no choice but to open their gadgets and get lost in the virtual world. Hotels close to places kids love to visit, such as children’s museums, amusement parks, water parks, beaches, restaurants, and shopping malls not only provide entertainment but also promote quality family time, which is the essence of a family vacation.

What are the activities and attractions?

Apart from nearby attractions, check if the hotel offers fun activities and amenities kids and teens will enjoy during their stay. Modern hotels usually come with swimming pools, bowling alleys, carnival rides, and high-tech video games. Also, some hotels offer in-house camps for kids, like arts and crafts, book readings, and cooking workshops that keep the kids entertained every minute of the vacation, and parents relaxed.

What are their dining options?

Do they offer free breakfast? How about a lunch buffet? Are there nearby restaurants? Do they have special menus for the kids’ taste buds and tiny serving sizes? Do kids receive meal discounts?

Nothing beats a satisfied appetite and gut while making parents’ wallets happy. Look for lodging establishments that offer great dining options as well as discounts for kids. One of the hotels where “kids eat free” is Holiday Inn. The hotel offers free meals up to four kids aged 12 and under at any on-site restaurants. The family-friendly hotel also lets the kids stay free.

Do kids have other special discounts?

Well, they should. Discounts for kids are pretty, common. Some hotels make parents even happier by offering a “kids stay and eat free” policy. Settle for hotels that give generous discounts for your little ones. Apart from offering discounted lodging and meals, some hotels even sell discount tickets to major theme parks and other diversions in the area.

Are there family-friendly packs and services?

If you have young children, this is a must-ask question. There are hotels with toy boxes upon request, just in case your little boy forgot to bring his monster truck. If you need some alone time with your partner, check to see if there are babysitting services, which is a very common service at resort hotels.

Can our pet stay?

A pet-friendly hotel is a family-friendly hotel. Max, the golden retriever, is family and family means no one gets left behind. And besides, your kids will surely pull a tantrum if you leave Max at home.

Numerous hotels allow pets but there are fees and sets of rules you should comply with. Hotels limit the number of pets allowed per room. Most of them allow only one pet per room while others may allow up to three. And since your pet is a family member, expect to pay for his/her accommodation. The price varies, though there are hotels that allow pets to stay free.

Author:

Carmina Natividad is a writer who has always been passionate about giving in to her wanderlust and collecting mementoes from different places. She also enjoys writing for Holiday Inn Parramata, a modern hotel in Western Sydney known for their exceptional accommodation, service, and location, which appeals to travellers in Australia.

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December 23, 2016 Food

What do you eat at Christmas?

Here is a typical meal in Spain

First course: Sopa de Galets (Soup)

Sopa de galets for Christmas dinner — Sopa de galets

Cooking the broth for this soup requires five or six hours the previous day.

Second first course: Canelons

Canelons for Christmas dinner — Canelons

This is the thing that you always say “Well, one more can’t hurt”. But it’s a trap when you realise you’ve eaten six of these.

Second course: Capó farcit (Stuffed chicken with meat, nuts, fruit…)

capo farcit for Christmas dinner — capo farcit

A wonderful romesco, a sauce with red bell peppers, tomato, hazelnuts, garlic and onions slowly roasted.

zarzuela for Christmas dinner — zarzuela

Some people instead of the capó prefer roasted lamb or zarzuela, a dish of seafood and tomato.

Desserts:

Codonyat, a confiture made with quince and sugar. It’s delicious with cheese.

codonyat for Christmas dinner — codonyat

Crema Catalana: a dessert similar to Crème brûlée

crema catalana for Christmas dinner — creme Catalana

Torrons: a confection made of honey, sugar, almonds and egg whites
- Soft:

Hard

And for the final toast, Cava (our champagne) and Neules, a thin layer of flour, sugar and eggs rolled and roasted.

The trick is that they make them with chocolate too. They are addictive.

Neules with Chocolate for Christmas dinner

Germany

one typical meal in Germany. There are several, depending on region and tradition.

Christmas Goose

Goose is a Christmas Eve dinner, which is eaten before the Bescherung (giving and receiving of presents). It takes a lot of preparation and hours of waiting for the goose to happen.

The dessert is always different: pudding, ice cream, small cakes, not so small cakes. Germany starts eating the Christmas dinner way before the actual day.

Sweden

Christmas in Sweden works as a cultural refuge. That is: What was once common is preserved as special for Christmas. That goes for the name as well.

Julegris (Christmas pig)

Sweden used to be a poor country with a hard climate not suited for agriculture. People mostly ate porridge, bread and fish. If there was a party they would slaughter a pig.

If you were lucky, you had a pig to slaughter at Christmas. Then everything from the pig was to be processed. On Christmas, you are served a smorgasbord (called julbord) with everything you had produced from your pig. Christmas was celebrated for at least 14 days. Sometimes 20 days. You spend those days with eating julbord at different families.

Julbord

A proper julbord should include all dishes that people use to do from a Julegris in premodern Sweden and some compulsory fish preserves:

marinated salmon
pickled herring
smoked salmon

And then add some more meat. Just so that it does not look to poor (it is Christmas, come on):

Smoked reindeer
Egg decorated with caviar (preferred from Kalix)
Meatballs
Sausage

That would be all for a julbord. Wait! There should be some vegetables. Let’s add:

Red cabbage or kale
Some salad with beetroot
boiled potatoes

Julbord for Christmas — A proper Julbord (just hope we did not miss something that is required for an authentic Christmas)

Julmust

A special Christmas soda: Julmust! It is compulsory to like it and drink it all through the season: 4 weeks before Christmas and 13–20 days after. Never drink it out of scope. That would be beyond the pale, uncivilised, uncultivated.

Italy

Normally you start with some appetizer, with various affettati, mascarpone, patè and other assorted foods

For the first course, rigorously lasagna

For the second course, roast beef with potatoes

roast beef with potatoes for Christmas dinner

Fruit and for dessert two staples: tiramisù and panettone

panettone for desserts on Christmas dinner

So, what do you eat for Christmas? Do share it in the comments section below.

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Christmas celebrations

You may like to read Christmas celebrations

December 21, 2016 Recipes

4 Delicious Recipes for Smorgasbord

4 DELICIOUS RECIPES WITH #SMORGASBORD #FOODIE

This post is in continuation to an earlier post on smorging. Here is a list of recipes for the smorgasbord.

Piri Piri Prawns with Feta

Ingredients: 6 cloves garlic, 2 fresh red chillies, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp dried oregano, 1 dozen tiger prawns, Olive oil, few sprigs of mint and rocket leaves chopped, 2 lemons, 1 tbsp honey, 50 gms soft feta cheese crumbled, sea salt and freshly cracked pepper.

Method: Peel and finely chop the garlic and deseed the chillies and finely chop too. Place in a bowl along with the paprika, oregano, prawns and season with salt and pepper as needed. Drizzle with about 1 ½ tablespoons of olive oil, mix well, cover and leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Place the griddle over high heat. Cut the lemon in half. Place the lemons cut-side down in the griddle. Place the prawns on the griddle and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until opaque and cooked through. Serve the prawns drizzled with honey. Crumble over the feta and scatter the chopped mint and rocket. Squeeze the charred lemon juice all over and serve immediately with either peach chutney or some spiced marmalade.

Recipes for Smorgasbord

Festive couscous

Ingredients: 2 ½ cups couscous, 4 cups hot chicken or vegetable stock, ½ tsp. chilli flakes, 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, finely grated rind, 1 ½ cup frozen peas cooked until tender, 1 small onion finely chopped, 75 gms pomegranate arils, 2 tbsp dried cranberry, ¼ cup chopped pistachios, ½ tbsp. dried tarragon, 2 tbsp small mint leaves chopped.

Method: Place the couscous in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the hot stock, chilli flakes, olive oil, and lemon juice and mix well. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside for 10 minutes. Remove the plastic wrap and fluff the couscous using a fork. Toss the peas, onion, pomegranate, cranberry, pistachios, tarragon, mint and the lemon rind. Toss well and serve with toast.

Classic Prawn Cocktail

Ingredients: Few martini or wine glasses, 1 small iceberg lettuce, finely chopped, 15-20 large prawns, boiled with tails, ½ tsp freshly ground pepper, 1 tsp tobacco bottled seafood sauce or Thousand Island Dressing Capers as needed, Olives and lemon slices for garnishing.

Method: Line the glasses and fill them with half the lettuce. In a bowl combine remaining lettuce and the prawns, (reserve 1 prawn for each glass and keep aside) capers, pepper, thousand island and tabasco. Gently fold and pour with 2 prawns per glass. Hang the reserved prawn over the edge of the glass and garnish with a lemon slice and an olive. Serve chilled.

Chutneywale Aloo or Potatoes with Chutney

Ingredients: 3 tbsp. vegetable oil. 1 kg baby potatoes peeled, 1 heaped tsp cumin seeds, roughly crushed in a pestle and mortar, 1 medium onion, thinly sliced, 2 tbsp. thick yoghurt, 1 tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp. garam masala. Salt as needed.

Green Chutney: 50 gms cashew nuts, 50 gms mint leaves, 50 gms coriander leaves with stalks, 25 gms ginger chopped, 1 small green chilli pinch of sugar.

Method: Whizz the chutney ingredients with 100 ml water in a blender and set aside. Heat 2 tbsp. of oil in a heavy based non-stick pan over a medium flame, add the potatoes. Fry for 20-25 minutes stirring often as they begin to brown. Heat the remaining oil in the pan and fry the cumin seeds for about 5-6 seconds until they sizzle. Add the onion and fry for 8-10 minutes until browned. Then stir in the chutney and fry stirring for a few minutes until slightly dry. Take the pan off the heat and stir in the yoghurt a spoonful at a time, stirring in the ground coriander and chilli powder and return the pan to a low heat and simmer for a minute. Stir in the garam masala and season with salt. Return the potatoes and stir to coat well.

BON APPETIT

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