Are you planning a trip to Europe but have a low budget to travel?
Worry not as there are several countries which may be affordable or even dirt cheap for you.
If we talk “UN recognized states” then there are a couple to consider:
Ukraine, Eastern Europe
This country would probably be the most expensive on the list. Home to a lot of churches, villages and nice landscapes, this country was a host to a European football cup in 2012 and has won the Eurovision song contest twice.
You would be well off with 600$ for a couple of weeks including renting the apartment in the high season and other expenses.
Odessa, Theatre, Morning, Sky, East Europe
Republic of Moldova, Eastern Europe
Another former Soviet Republic is considered the poorest country in Europe as the median salary barely exceeds 180$/month.
It is well-known for home-made wine, its villages and Romanian heritage.
You could rent a nice hotel room or an Airbnb Apartment for as little as 15$/day
Chisinau Moldova church, East Europe
Moldova does, however, have an autonomous region, which de facto is a self-proclaimed republic, which leads us to…
The partially recognised territories
Pridnestrovian Moldovan Republic (Transnistria)
If you plan to travel there, cross its border via Moldovan side in order to avoid problems in Moldova. Beware of bribery on the border
The de jure Transnistrian Autonomous Unit is a self-proclaimed state which is a frozen conflict zone since 1992, filled with Russian troops.
This territory is landlocked between Moldova and Ukraine
Your travel would most likely be a time travel to the end of the USSR at the end of the ’80s. Same panel buildings, some new shops; same mentality, some new technological advances, like broadband internet and a cell phone.
A lot of its infrastructure belongs to its former presidents making it a very corrupt oligarch.
Median salary exceeds 300 $/month (in Transnistrian rubles) making it richer than (the rest of) Moldova.
Its citizens do often claim their ancestry from other countries thus having a handful of other passports (Moldovan, Russian, Romanian and Ukrainian). Amid plastic coins, you would also be able to use an ATM there, which belongs to an Abkhazian bank (partially recognised state that recognised Transnistria) to retrieve Russian Rubles to exchange them into a Transnistrian currency.
You would probably be well off with a couple of hundreds $/ 2 weeks. Do please check the immigration rules of this state (e.g. how you need to register yourself at the border and at the police station after you arrive at the hostel/ your apartment)
Check with Abkhazian and Georgian authorities about the rules of getting in and registering yourself. Misfollowing these may get you to a prison in Georgia
Psyrtskha railway station The Republic of Abkhazia This station is served by a daily Moscow Sukhumi train and locals to Adler and Sochi in Russia. Image courtesy-Clay Gilliland
This is another partially recognised state (recognised by the several UN States such as Nauru and Russia) on the list. De jure, this is still considered a part of Georgia.
It is home to a cheap and nice coast and delicious food and climate.
I can however not say how cheap it is, but you would definitely be well of on a couple of hundred bucks for a week or two of travelling.
The start of a new year typically comes with a list of goals, plans, and dreams that you want to achieve. For many people, one of the things that pop up on their to-do lists is to do some travelling. If this sounds familiar and is something that you want to be able to do in 2019, then Europe may be the destination you have your eye on.
Saying you want to visit “Europe” doesn’t really narrow down the list much, so to help you out we’ve put together a list of five European countries well worth visiting
Let’s take a closer look.
Ireland
Photo by Steven Hylands from Pexels
For many people, visiting Ireland isn’t just an intriguing place in Europe, it’s a bucket list kind of trip that takes you to a magical and absolutely stunning country. Known for its natural beauty and castles galore, there is plenty to do and see in Ireland. It’s for that exact reason that you may want to book a guided tour through a company such as Go Irish Tours. They offer a wide array of vacation packages and tours that will ensure that you see all the very best that Ireland has to offer. You can also tie it in with a visit to the UK and Scotland if you choose.
Italy
Photo by Anastasiya Lobanovskaya from Pexels
Of course, you can’t create a list of must-visit European countries without including Italy. The country has so many noteworthy cities and towns – in fact, one visit to Italy isn’t usually enough. Standout places to tour in Italy include Venice, Rome, Florence, Milan, and Lake Como. You can opt for a bustling metropolitan city-style vacation, or something more laid back and relaxed where the scenery and architecture is the real star of the holiday.
Austria
architecture Austria building church
Here’s a country that doesn’t always get the buzz it deserves, and can prove to be a traveller’s paradise. While many are familiar with Austrian’s most popular city of Vienna, there is so much more to the country. Austria is well-known for its unbelievable ski hills, spas, architecture, palaces, churches, castles, shopping, markets, entertainment, and dining. You can easily spend an entire vacation in the city, or make it a stop on a European tour.
Croatia
Croatia city Rovinj port
Here’s another European country that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. For anyone who has ever travelled to Croatia before, they will be the first to gush about just how spectacular it is. If you happen to be a beach-type of person, Croatia offers some of the most awe-inspiring shorelines there is. With that said, you can easily combine a classic beach-style holiday with European flair, history, and culture, making this a really unique destination.
Norway
cold snow sea landscape Photo by monicore from Pexels
For those who simply want to get away from it all, feel as though you have taken a step back in time, and really left all the stress and worries behind, then Norway can act as the perfect sanctuary. It’s here where you will find glaciers, rugged mountains that run the length of the coastline, massive fjords, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Because Norway is located within the Arctic Circle, you will also get to experience the Midnight Sun.
No matter which of these countries you choose to explore in 2019, one thing is for sure and that is the fact that you will be building memories that last a lifetime.
As 2018 comes to an end, it’s time to party in style and welcome the New Year in high spirits.
This year, The Resort is all set to usher in 2019 with the best of entertainment with a Las Vegas Night New Year Eve party for its patrons. The opulent property is slated to host one of the most glamorous parties featuring some fabulous performances, rocking games, delectable food and a lot more.
The Resort will ring in New Year with a celebration that will treat partygoers with vibrant visuals and decor. The venue will look resplendent with its stunning lighting adding to the beauty of the idyllic location. A red carpet and a dazzling board will welcome visitors to The Resort. A photo booth will help visitors click pictures and make memories to last a lifetime as they look their party best.
A huge stage with a festive backdrop will add to the overall look of the party and the dance floor will be ready to welcome enthusiastic party-goers. Some magnificent performances will also add to the party mode along with various games like Knock Down, Pop the Clown, Ring Game etc. There will also be a range of activities like Nail Art, Glitter Mehendi, tattoo, Jugglers, Magic Show etc. A lantern countdown is another highlight of the show.
What: ‘New Year’s Eve Las Vegas Extravaganza night’
Christmas is undeniably a glorious season, a busy time for most, caught up in the pressures of the season and that special day. But as most festivals, and in the pursuit of happiness, one must retain the true essence that this marvellous day embodies. Finding real joy is not in all that hurrying and scurrying to get more done, but the real joy is to just focus on what’s important.
Christmas village
The true celebration of Christmas should simply reflect love and selflessness taught by the Saviour, born in a stable, cradled in a manger, who came forth to reshape the world, which prevailed in those days and, henceforth, taught mankind that sacrifice and love is above all. The spirit of Christmas should illuminate the picture window of one’s soul; it should throb with every beat of your heart. What we are mistaken about is that Christmas is not just about a day or a mere season, Christmas is about the human spirit, living the truth every moment of every day. While it’s easy to soften our hearts, forgive our enemies, and obey the word, the gospel truth is that like all religions Christianity is also about living this philosophy day in and day out all through our lives.
The complexion of Christmas wears a paint of brotherly love. Joy filled Christmas is not about the gifts you receive or give, nor how lavish the festivities are, but imbibing the gifts of true understanding and compassion, service and friendship, kindness and gentleness.
Somewhere in the recesses of my memory, a simple poem penned by English poet Christina Rossetti always springs forth during this season:
What can I give Him?
Poor as I am?
If I were a Shepherd
I would bring a lamb,
If I were a wise man,
I would do my part,
Yet what can I give Him?
Give my heart.
These are indeed such beautiful words, simple but deep. Something to think upon, something to contemplate!
So, while December brings forth the only Christmas Day in the year, let there be Christmas all through the year in things you do and say. It isn’t about the tinsel and decorations, the tree and gifts; the mince pies or Christmas cake, it’s not about your hearths being warm and your holidays being grand, it’s all about your hearts being warm and your generosity being grand.
It’s all about giving your children the right perspective on the fantasy of Santa and the angels, the miracles and wonders. Cinch in that thought that Christmas is not about you what you buy. It is about what you make, the traditions, memories and bonhomie. A Christmas that holds you, can revive and reshape you. Make this season one for kindling the fire of hospitality in your homes and the genial flame of charity in your hearts.
A merry and joyful Christmas to all!
Cook Yourself a Yummy X’Mas Feast!
Roast Turkey with Cranberry Sauce
Ingredients:
1 whole Turkey
Butter 100 gm,
Chopped Onion 100 gm,
Chopped Celery 100 gm,
Crumbled sage and thyme 10 gm,
Salt and pepper to taste,
Chopped fresh parsley 10gm,
1 bay leaf,
Garlic minced 10 gm,
Balsamic vinegar to taste,
Sugar 20 gm,
Cranberry 150 gm.
Method– In a skillet melt butter over medium heat. Stir in onions, celery, sage, thyme and pepper; cook, stirring occasionally for 10 minutes or until brown. Remove giblets and neck from the turkey cavity, keep for gravy.
Rinse turkey inside out with running water. Stir together with a little of the remaining butter, sage, salt and pepper, rub over turkey, inside and out. Loosely pack stuffing into neck and body cavities, fold over and skewer neck flap closed over stuffing. Tie legs together.
Place turkey, breast side up on a rack in roasting pan. Cover with foil and roast in 325 degrees F oven for about 1.5 hours, basting with pan juices every 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue to roast or 1 ¾ hour, basting every half hour. Keep it aside for carving.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan, bring chicken stock turkey neck, giblets, onion and bay leaf to boil. Reduce heat and simmer. While cooked turkey rests, skim excess fat from roasting pan whisk in flour until well combined. Gradually whisk in reserved giblet stock. Bring to boil and cook. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Strain and serve alongside turkey.
For cranberry sauce in a small saucepan, heat oil over medium heat; stir in onion and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes or until softened. Put balsamic vinegar, boil for 5 minutes or until reduced. Now mix together cranberries, sugar, salt and pepper. Mix into onion mixture. Bring to boil and cook until cranberries are tender, and sauce is thick.
Gingerbread with jaggery
Ingredients:
100 gm unsalted butter at room temperature,
135 gm jaggery granules or jaggery chopped fine,
45 ml honey,
30 ml water,
1 tsp dried ginger powder,
1 tsp cinnamon powder,
Zest of 1 orange,
1 tsp. baking powder,
½ tsp. baking soda,
2 eggs,
175 gms whole-wheat flour,
Demerara sugar for sprinkling over.
Method: Preheat oven to 180 c. Line a baking sheet with parchment and lightly grease 5 mini cake moulds. Place the jaggery, butter, honey and water in a heatproof bowl. Then heat in microwave for a minute, until the butter has melted. Whisk well with a balloon whisk until the jaggery and butter have combined.
Add the ginger powder, pie spice, orange zest, vanilla extract, baking powder and baking soda. Whisk well to mix.
Whisk in the eggs one by one. Now fold in the whole-wheat flour gently.
Ladle into prepared tins, sprinkle over dried orange crystals. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes until risen and light golden brown. Use a tester to check if done.
Allow to cool in pan for 10 minutes and then gently loosen sides to demould. Serve warm as it is or with a drizzle of unsweetened whipped cream.
Gluten-free Christmas cake
Ingredients
300 gm pre- soaked Christmas dry fruit with orange and lemon zest,
200 ml jaggery syrup,
150 gms almond flour,
100 gms grated apple,
175 gms butter,
4 medium eggs.
Method– Preheat the oven to 140 degrees. Put the remaining ingredients except for the flour in a large bowl. Beat with a hand-held electric mixer until well combined. Fold the almond flour well.
Grease a deep 23 cm round tin or 20 cm square cake tin with butter. Line with a double layer of baking paper and grease the paper. Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin. Level the top.
Bake for about 2 hours until firm to the touch and a skewer pushed into the middle comes out clean. Leave the cake to cool in the tin.
When the cake has cooled, remove the baking powder, pierce the top in several places with a skewer, then pour over a little brandy. Remove cake from the tin but wrap it with baking powder, then wrap with foil. Then store in a cool place to mature.
Decorate the cake with Glace fruit, marzipan or ready-to-use icing.
Yule log
Chocolate yule log- Eldriva -Flickr
Ingredients–
Dark chocolate 100 gm
Fresh Cream 50 gm,
Whipped Cream 70 gms,
Nutella 100 gms,
Milk 1 litre,
Milkmaid 500 gms,
Curd 500 gms,
Castor sugar for dusting,
Maida 150 gms,
Baking powder 70 gms,
Baking soda 30 gms,
Cocoa powder 150 gms,
Oil 50 ml
Method– Prepare the log sponge by mixing milk, Milkmaid, curd, sugar. Add all dry items in the mixture and oil at the end. By heating cream and dark chocolate and make the ganache. Now add whipped cream and Nutella into the ganache and assemble in a log shape, serve in plate and dust icing sugar (castor sugar).
Recipes courtesy – Executive Sous Chef Lokesh Jarodia of Novotel Imagica Khopoli and Executive Chef Gopal Jha of Grand Mercure Bangalore.
