5 best ski resorts in Europe

Whether you live in or outside of Europe, finding a ski resort that suits you can be overwhelming. Perhaps you want guaranteed snow, decent variety of accommodation and chalets, or getting the right mix of skiing, relaxation and partying. Is it family-friendly, are the pistes challenging or for beginners? Well, we’ve put together our top 5 ski resorts in Europe to help.

Most reliable

There is nothing more disappointing than heading to a ski resort and finding that there’s not enough snow. Val d’Isere, situated in the French alps is well known for being one of the most reliable resorts in Europe for snow cover. With its two glaciers, Val d‘Isere is any skier’s paradise and has a vast array of cruising pistes which cover almost 25 acres.

Although skiing is the focus of this European ski resort, the Folie Douce will bring you a fantastic après ski experience, so there are plenty of places to play hard too.

Best for scenery

If you’re looking for stunning views Zermatt in Switzerland definitely wins the award for being the most scenic, for it’s view of the famous Matterhorn mountain. What makes it really unique, is its ban on cars, meaning you can escape the traffic and pollution and really appreciate the fresh alpine air and quietness.

During the winter months, Zermatt provides 220 miles of slopes, which is enough to ski to Italy if you wanted, as the area is linked to Breuil-Cervinia across the border.

Best apres-ski vibe

For many, selecting a European skiing destination is more about the après-ski parties than the skiing itself. These days, many ski resorts in Europe during the winter months can be as crazy as Ibiza is in the summer!

If you fancy knocking back a load of Jägermeister, while dancing in your ski boots with your fellow skiers, then head to St. Anton, Austria. Due to its well-deserved reputation for after parties, St. Anton usually attracts a younger crowd and has a large variety of bars to choose from, both in the village itself and on the slopes, where music blares over the mountains.

And if you ever manage to actually get your skis on, St. Anton has over 160 miles of slopes, with plenty of variety for beginners, as well as for the more advanced skiers, so you won’t be disappointed.

Best choice of pistes

Les Trois Vallees in France is one of the largest skiing areas in the world and consists of three different ski resorts: Courchevel, Meribel and Val Thorens. It consists of 600 kilometres of piste, 293 runs, two snowboard parks and 185 ski lifts, and the best time to go is earlier in the season to avoid queues!

If you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, Meribel is the place to go. It has been voted the best family resort in the Wold Ski Awards!

Best day trip resort

For those living in Europe and looking for a day trip, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is only an hour’s drive from Munich, Germany. The town is perfect for day visits, as it’s both very easily accessible and reasonably priced. The train from Munich provides fantastic deals on tickets to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and ski pass prices are also relatively inexpensive, so it’s not a problem if you’d like to return for another day.

Skiers and snowboarders of every ability can count on 15 miles of freshly groomed slopes.

source: aluxurytravelblog.com

5 tips to Summer enjoy the Fiji Islands with kids - Geotrips

5 tips to enjoy the Fiji Islands with kids

Deciding whether to ‘go island’ or stay on the mainland was probably our hardest decision when planning a trip to Fiji Island with kids.

Part of me wanted a “stranded on a deserted island” kind of holiday but the other part of me knew that I could quickly go a bit mad just staring at the coral all day.

In the end, we decided to stick to the mainland and do some day trips out to the Fiji islands. Our reasons for sticking to the shore were many and varied, but included:

1. Arriving in Fiji after a plane trip with three kids we were quite sure we wouldn’t fancy hopping straight on a boat, no matter the destination.
2.  The idea of spending a night on the mainland and then heading out was appealing, but we wanted to arrive and be settled, not enjoy ourselves for a night and turn around and pack again in the morning. 
3. As much as a ‘do nothing’ beach holiday appealed, the idea of being stuck in a resort, even a luxury one, for over a week did not.

Our choice to stay on Denarau Island was the right one for us and we really made the most of it.
Here are some of the highlights of what we got up to.

1. Resort hopping

There are lots of signs saying “hotel guests only”, but we still had a ball catching the Bula Bus around the 7 resorts it stopped at and jumping in the hotel pool.

To feel less guilty, we made sure we enjoyed morning tea or lunch or afternoon tea (and even dinner one night at the Westin) while we were there. A top tip if you’re planning a little Bula Bus pool hopping is to take your own towels to Fiji so you don’t stick out with the wrong hotel towel.


Incidentally, the most family friendly pools on Denarau were the Sofitel or Blu Raddison.

The only trouble with both of them was line-of-sight: there were a lot of crevices to lose a kid in at both of these pools so you need to be on high alert at all times.

For a ‘relax in your armchair and see the whole pool’ experience – definitely my preference when you have young kids in tow – the Hilton is far preferable.

2. Mud bathing

The Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool is a very family-bonding sort of experience.

The kids loved getting coated in the thermal mud and we parents loved the hot baths to wash it off in. It’s a very basic set up, but it’s so relaxing once you get into the hot bath that you quickly forget you’re basically swimming in a mud hole in the middle of nowhere.

We swam in the baths for a good couple of hours and enjoyed ourselves immensely. Incidentally, a visit to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant was really worth a side trip – it’s not far from the mud pool.

3. Kava drinking

You can take an organised tour to an ‘authentic Fijian village’ to participate in a kava ceremony, or you can become friends with some of the staff at your resort and be invited home to their village to meet their chief.

We managed the latter and we had an immersive afternoon buying kava at the local markets to take as a gift to the chief and then driving out to get to know the friendly people who live in the village of Nawaka, just outside of Nadi.

4. Island dreaming

We took two day trips from Denarau Marina to two very different islands.

The first was a trip out to Savala Island on the Oolala Cruise by Storck Cruises. Savala is a deserted island with just a shade structure and amenities for visitors who snorkel, paddle board, canoe and swim in the pristine waters for the day.

I opted for a massage in an open-air hut and it was such a delightful experience with the lapping of waves almost drowning out my children calling, “Mum, MUUUUM, where’s Mum?” every five minutes. Ah, kids, huh?

Though the day spent on the island was blissful, the best bit about the Oolala cruise was the trip in the boat there and back. The cruise is staffed with the chirpiest fellows you can imagine who are just fantastic with a song and their guitars.

I couldn’t imagine a nicer way to spend an afternoon than zipping along the Fijian waters belting out “Wichita Linesman” with a glass of not-too-bad wine in my hand – it’s true these guys are slightly obsessed with American country music, but you can’t have everything.

Our second island trip was with South Sea Cruises to Treasure Island.

It was a complete contrast to Savala as the ship was large and so was the island. Treasure Island resort which hosted us for the day was quite run down, but set in paradise nonetheless.

The snorkelling around the island is unbelievable and my son was very taken with the resident turtles and water trampoline. Still, I was very glad we hadn’t opted to stay here for an entire week as there just wasn’t enough to do.

5. City walking

I’m sure many people would be happy to laze at their beautiful Fijian resort for a week or more and I honestly wish I was one of them (I’m quite sure my family wishes I was too!), but I’m not.

I love to relax as much as the next person, but I’m far too curious to stay put for long. Which is why I dragged the family around the markets and streets of Nadi, meeting the locals, taking pictures and generally trying to soak up what life in Fiji is really like.

Nadi is a bustling, friendly sort of city but it would be a real eye-opener for many Aussie children and mine were no different.

We had many interesting, philosophical discussions about the nature of wealth and what it is in life that makes us truly rich people.

The kids were very quick to note how happy the Fijian kids were, even though they didn’t seem to have much.

“They’re rich with piles of friendship instead of money,” my daughter pointed out. I’d say that’s the sign of a very good holiday indeed.

Do you have any tips for travel to the Fiji Islands with kids? So contact us via Phone: 0121 238 3333 or Email:  info@geotrips.co.uk

source: ytravelblog.com/fiji-islands-for-families

Awesome day trips by train in Italy

With so much history, culture and amazing architecture, not to mention fabulous food and wine, it’s no wonder that Italy is one of the world’s most popular travel destinations. Travelling by train is a relaxing way to get around Italy and the great thing about rail travel is that it also allows you to get away from the major cities and enjoy some wonderful day trips.

It doesn’t matter where your interests lie - with food and wine, art, history or just taking in the spectacular Italian scenery, rail travel makes it easy to see the best of Italy away from the cities. 

Top 7 day trips in Italy by train

There are endless options but I’ve included a few suggested day trips by train from Italy’s major cities to help get your holiday plans started.

1/ Milan to Varenna by train

Como is often the destination for those wanting to visit Lake Como from Milan but my suggestion is to head to Varenna instead.  Just an hour by train from Milan, Varenna is a picture-postcard Italian lakeside village. Allow some time to wander the steep, narrow alleys of Varenna before hopping onboard a ferry to one of the many other lakeside towns including Bellagio, Menaggio or Tremezzo.

Enjoy lunch at a lakeside cafe and lick a gelato as you stroll along one of the many lakeside promenades or shop in the lovely boutiques. Ties and scarves made of Como silk are popular and reasonably-priced. There are numerous gardens and villas that are worth a look, too, if you are so inclined. Then, after a day spent admiring the stunning lake views, catch the ferry back to Varenna for your train back to Milan.

2/ Milan to Turin by train

For food and wine lovers, Turin, the capital of Piedmont, is the place to head for a day trip from Milan.  In just one hour, the super-fast Trenitalia Frecciabianca whisks you from Milan to Turin where you’ll be greeted by some impressive Baroque architecture, much of it dating back to when Turin was the royal seat of the Savoys.

Turin has long been known as the home of the automotive company Fiat but more recently has developed a reputation as a world class food and wine centre.  The slow food movement started nearby and one of the city’s most popular eateries is Eataly where you can sample local foods, including smoked meats, cheeses and pasta, all produced in the ‘slow food’ method.

Whilst in Turin you should also sample locally grown truffles and hazelnuts, the local chocolate, Guido Golbino, and of course, the local wines from the surrounding Barolo and Barbaresco regions.  By the time you jump aboard your train back to Milan, your taste buds will have reached sensory overload and you’ll be well and truly content.

3/ Florence to Pisa day trip by train

One of the most photographed buildings in Italy has to be the Leaning Tower of Pisa and with the journey by train from Florence only taking around an hour, getting there is easy.

If the Leaning Tower is the main purpose of your visit to Pisa, I strongly recommend pre-purchasing your entry ticket online before you arrive. Only 40 people are allowed in the Tower at any one time (each group is allowed to spend 30 minutes inside), so booking a set entry time will save you a long wait in the ticket queue and guarantee entry.  After climbing the 300-odd steps you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views over the city.

Other sights close to the Leaning Tower that are worth a visit include the Duomo (Cathedral), which features a magnificent pulpit and paintings, and Battistero (Baptistry).

4/ Florence to Siena by train

An hour and a half by train from Florence lies the city’s long-time rival, Siena. This hilltop Tuscan town is one of the most-visited in Italy, not only for its annual Palio, a famous horse race around the medieval streets, but also for its fine architecture, art and cuisine.

The town’s main square, Piazza del Campo, is dominated by the Mangia Tower (built in the 14th century), and Santa Maria Church, but the Romanesque-Gothic Siena Cathedral is also well worth a visit for its superb mosaic and painted interior, said to be amongst the most elaborate in all of Italy.

After exploring the town, grab a seat at an outdoor cafe and enjoy a coffee or the local specialties whilst people watching, before hopping aboard your train for the journey through the rolling Tuscan countryside back to Florence.

5/ Genoa to San Remo day trip by train

Around two hours by train from the maritime city of Genoa lies the coastal beauty of San Remo, fondly known as the pearl of the Italian Riviera.  With its Mediterranean climate and attractive beaches, San Remo became popular with the rich and famous of Europe during the 19th century. Today it is sometimes referred to as a ‘wannabe Monte Carlo’ (which is only about an hour away to the west), because of its casino and the well-dressed folk who can be seen around town.

Highlights of the town include the Russian Orthodox Church with its onion-domed top and the Villa Nobel, now a museum dedicated to Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel, of Nobel Prize fame. You can lose yourself for hours in the jumbled streets of the old town but most visitors find themselves at some point heading for the beach to soak up the Mediterranean sunshine.

6/ Genoa to Monterosso by train

Ideally you’d spend more than a day visiting the five villages of the Cinque Terre but it is possible to see them on a day trip by train from Genoa.  About 90 minutes after departing from Genoa, you’ll arrive in Monterosso, the most northerly of the five Cinque Terre villages.  Regular trains (at least one per hour in summer) run between each of the villages so my suggestion is to spend some time exploring each of them.  Each village has its own unique characteristics but they all have one thing in common - they are oh so picturesque.

If you’ve departed Genoa early, you may have time to walk the paths between a couple of the Cinque Terre villages. Doing so gives you stunning views over the Ligurian coastline and the views from above each village as you approach on foot are not to be missed. But, if you’d prefer to take the faster option, jump aboard the train which stops at each village - Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore - before returning to Genoa.

7/ Rome to Orvieto by train

Just over an hour by train from Rome, Orvieto is a history lover’s paradise. Inhabited since Etruscan times, the town is home to a stunning cathedral (with a breathtaking facade), fortress, Papal residence, medieval piazzas and a huge underground tunnel system.  Upon disembarking your train, catch the funicular (€1) for the short ride to the old town where your exploration can begin.

Dug deep into the volcanic rock on which the city sits, are a series of more than 400 caves connected by tunnels that date back thousands of years.  Used for multiple purposes over the years including bomb shelters, fridges and hideouts when the city was under siege, today you can take a tour of the caves with a local guide.  After the tour, why not visit the Museo Claudio opposite the Cathedral, where you can see a fascinating display of Etruscan artefacts and Greek ceramic pieces?

As well as enjoying the historic sights of Orvieto, most visitors leave with a fondness for the surrounding landscape.  Dotted with olive and cypress trees and grape vines, this is the rural Italy you’ve seen on so many postcards.  For the best views of the Umbrian countryside, and the best photo opps, head to the town walls which are just to the north of Piazza San Giovenale.

source: holidaystoeurope.com.au

Affordable Vacations in Europe -- Geotrips

Affordable Vacations in Europe

Visit amazing sites in more than 50 countries. Experience vastly different cultures, languages and food within short train rides from city to city.

Nearly 30 European Union countries have a single currency and relaxed border crossings, making European travel quite easy. Ride a train for several hours on the continent and enter a new country. From Arctic Circle Nordic nations to warm southern Mediterranean countries, you’ll find modern cities alongside vestiges of ancient civilizations.

Visit Italy and Greece to wander through ruins of early empires. In Rome, see the Colosseum, in Athens, the Acropolis. Relax on glorious beaches in both countries.  Explore some of the 6,000 islands of Greece and view the Ligurian Sea from high walking paths along terraced vineyards in Italy’s Cinque Terre. Pay papal respects at Vatican City, Europe’s smallest nation.

France is famous for wine, Mediterranean beaches and art galleries. Explore the grand canyon of the Gorges du Verdon and ski the French Alps. Visit weekly markets in small Provençal towns, perched villages in the Luberon and sandy beaches near Saint-Tropez. In Paris, tour the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay and the Centre Georges Pompidou. Walk along the Champs-Élysées and view the city from atop the Eiffel Tower.

Spain and Portugal highlight modern-day Iberian cultures. In Portugal, eat luscious Belém pastries, visit the 500-year-old Jerónimos Monastery and see raging waves on Europe’s westernmost land. Ski in the Pyrenees Mountains, run with the bulls in Pamplona and dance the flamenco in Madrid or Barcelona, Spain. Venture into the region between Spain and France to tour Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum and experience unique Basque culture and language.

Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark feature Scandinavian customs and foods, including endless Smörgåsbord buffets. See far northern lands near the Arctic Circle with summer sunshine through the day and night. Find quiet forests in Finland, Viking history at Sweden’s Vasa Museum and striking fjords on the shores of the Norwegian Sea.ast ancient Celtic landmarks.

The United Kingdom has Scottish heaths, Welsh castles and British pomp and pageantry across England. See the Crown Jewels and attend West End theater in London. Cross the water to Ireland and bike over rolling green hills past ancient Celtic landmarks.
Germany, Austria, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Poland offer glorious music, castles and centuries of history. Appreciate the Dom cathedral in Cologne, the symphonic orchestra in Vienna, ancient Roman settlements in Budapest, St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague and the old towns of Krakow and Gdansk.

Visit museums, art galleries and places of worship in Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, Latvia and other countries once isolated beyond U.S.S.R. borders.

Select one or two countries for a short trip to Europe or plan an annual visit to discover the beauty and history of this glorious continent.

source: expedia.co.in

The most beautiful beaches in Europe enjoy with Geotrips

Are you ready to discover the most beautiful beaches in Europe? Here is a selection of the best beaches for relaxing, partying or simply walking. Discover the top beaches in Europe. Take a look at our selection of the most beautiful beaches of the European coastline. Pack your bathing suits, your sunglasses, do not forget the sunscreen, and discover those heavenly beaches.

  

Virgin Island's Creek

Brittany - France

With its Mediterranean beach-like setting and maritime pines, the natural cove of Île Vierge (Virgin Island), also known as Point of Saint Hernot, is a surprising and unusual place in Brittany. Come and discover all of the aspects of this unique natural gem by boat, kayak, on foot via the GR34 trail or with flippers/mask/snorkel. Right from the start, it's completely worth it! Be careful, the entrance to the beach is a little steep. 

Egremni beach

Madeira - Portugal

Egremni is a remote beach located on the south-western coast of the Ionian island of Lefkada, north-western Greece. Since the creation of a sealed road during the mid-1990s, this remote beach has become one of the premier tourist destinations on the island, and in Europe as a whole. Book your stay at Lefkada at the best price guaranteed as well as your best activities in Greece.

Scopello beach

Sicily

Elegant beaches with bathing establishments alternate with cliffs, luxuriant maquis and ancient watchtowers. The coast of Scopello surprises us with the amazing shapes of its cliffs and the rugged nature that announces the nearby Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro.

Cala Macarelleta

Menorca - Spain

Menorca is the werstern island of the balearic archipel. This is the second island in term of surface after Mallorca. In 1993, Menorca was given by the UNESCO the distinction of "Reserve of Biosphere". Menorca is wonderfull island, with emeralds beaches, and an always blue sky (more than 300 days of sunshine per year). Book your hotel, guesthouse, B&B, at the best price guaranteed in Menorca as well as your best activities as a 2-hour sunset boat trip. 

Sarakiniko beach

Milos Island - Greece

Sarakiniko beach is exceptional. Travellers will be amazed by this unique beach in the world. It can be reached by sea or road. The place is crowded but if you walk a few metres ahead you will discover nice quiet spots. Come enjoy a dream holiday in an incredible setting and book your hotel, guesthouse, B&B at the best price on Milos island. You would like to spend the night on the spot? Book a Tours at "Luxury Travel" the Travel services are bright and modern.

source: europeanbestdestinations.com

New Travel Destinations For 2017

New Travel Destinations For 2017

Last week we looked at four unique destinations across the world and now it is time to pick up where we left off. Since summer has arrived, everyone is planning their getaway, be it with families or for a fun-packed solo trip.  Check out this week’s chosen destinations for adventure, wonder and family entertainment.

Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

A steamer cruise across the cerulean lake of Lucerne on a warm summer’s day is without doubt something you must experience with the family. Saudis love Switzerland and it is not just for the Alps. Not only is the luxury aspect key to tourism derived from the Middle East but its authenticity, natural charm, snow capped mountains and scenic lake views continue to draw tourists from all over the world. Try the cruises on Lake Lucerne with your family to unravel nature’s mystery and the historic sites along the bay of Lucerne. They will take you to Mount Rigi, the Transport Museum, the Glass Factory, Mount Pilatus, Stanserhorn, Klewenalp and Seelisberg. You can enjoy a series of water sports including experiences on a motor-powered saloon vessel or paddle wheel steamboats. Sail to Flüelen and experience some of the most magnificent panoramas anywhere in the Alps. An excursion to the popular sightseeing and shopping town of Lucerne is also included in cruises where you get to experience art, the Glacier Garden, a trip to the Swiss Museum of Transport with its IMAX cinema and a chance to experience the sights, sounds and flavors of the old town.

Laos

This stunning landscape offers mountains blanketed with jungles, centuries-old golden stupas, scattered historic monuments with ruins and beautiful waterfalls. The history of Laos stretches back to more than 10,000 years as stone tools and skulls unearthed in Huaphan and Luang Prabang provinces reportedly confirm. Luang Prabang is a UNESCO-protected town prized for its natural marvels and mix of traditional and French-colonial architecture. If you are a backpacker and love being on the run, go motorbiking on the Loop, explore the mysterious Plain of Jars, royal palaces and the province of Khammuan and take a trip into the underworld of Tham Kong Lor for a trip you will never forget.

The giant jars in Xieng Khouang, the Plain of Jars, and stone columns in Huaphan province date from the Neolithic period.

For those who appreciate art and history explore Wat Phu- a UNESCO World Heritage Site In Champasak, situated on a hillside offering stunning views over the breathtaking landscape and Mekong River. You can’t help but admire the workmanship in this ruined Khmer complex in the form of pillars, terrace, courtyard, walls, doorways, sanctuary, library and palaces. Wat Phu is considered one of the oldest archaeological sites in Laos. This is definitely one of those places you really want to visit if you are a photographer, travel blogger or adventurer.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

One for the adventurers, summer in Jackson Hole is filled with outdoor activities. It is all about hiking, whitewater rafting, golfing, mountain biking, stagecoach rides and horseback riding. Jackson Hole is a valley between the Teton Mountain Range and the Gros Ventre Range in Wyoming. Mountains with flowing rivers surround these low-lying valleys and streams, which also serve as a great source for wildlife to thrive. Once you are off the slopes you can indulge in wildlife tours, sled tours, and sleigh rides. You can enjoy water sports including kayaking, or hang gliding and hot air balloons, among many more. For nature lovers, the Grand Teton National Park is a wonderland. The towering mountains of the Teton Range stretch 40 miles and include eight mountains over 12,000 feet. A great place for families, where you can enjoy activities, picnics and quality time, you can also indulge in the fast-paced side of things, like the Alpine Slide, where you slide down 2,500 feet of Snow King Mountain in a bobsled. For sport enthusiasts you have golf at Jackson Hole Golf & Tennis Club, designed by Arnold Palmer. Jackson Hole is also great for skiing, snowmobiling and ice-skating during the winter.

source: saudigazette.com.sa

10 Travel & tours tips for Nature Lovers by Geotrips

Regardless of where we live, or what we do for a living, our days tend to follow a similar pattern: commute to work, spend a long day in the office, go home and attempt to relax before repeating it all over again tomorrow. When vacation time finally comes around, we would like to find ourselves far from the hustle and bustle of daily life. What better way to do this than with a nature tour?

With experiences like hiking into the depths of the Grand Canyon, kayaking next to the glaciers of Antarctica, watching lions cross the Serengeti, and swimming with dolphins off the coast of Australia, you won’t want to return to your desk! All these locations offer incredible experiences, giving travelers the chance to explore nature around the world. Geotrips has put together the perfect list of guided tours, allowing the nature lover in all of us to escape the city and take the perfect pre-planned trip.

The Galapagos

 

Want to see nature in its most pristine state? Then a trip to the Galapagos is exactly what you need. Since their discovery in 1535, these islands have been a hotbed for scientific study. Despite growing tourism to the area, they have remained mostly the same and generally undisturbed by humans and colonization, making a visit there one of the most immersive nature experiences one can have. The islands are home to the infamous giant tortoises and finches that played a key role in Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. The astounding mountain terrain, crystal clear blue waters, and tropical rainforest landscape will awaken the nature lover in everyone.

For the true nature and wildlife lover, this guided Galapagos tour with National Geographic Expeditions is the best way to see nature preserved; the way it has been for thousands of years ago. With hiking, snorkeling, nature walks, and first hand interactions with wildlife, this guided expedition offers everything a nature lover can dream of.

Alaska

 

Commonly called the “last frontier,” Alaska is an easy choice if you’re looking for a nature-packed adventure. Alaska is home to over 95 state park areas that boast beautiful coniferous trees, diverse wildlife, and incredible mountain views. With miles upon miles of hiking trails, three million lakes, and more coastline than the continental United State, a trip to the 49th state will provide a glimpse into all the nature and wildlife that call it home.

Amazon Rainforest 

 

As the most biodiverse, and largest, expanse of tropical rainforest in the world, each step through the Amazonian rainforest provides a completely different and new experience. Monkeys, jaguars, and toucans occupy the forest floor and canopy, giving travelers an unforgettable look into life in the forest. With hikes, boat rides, and nature walks, the Amazon rainforest provides a place where all travelers can be completely immersed in nature.

Australia

 

Kangaroos, koalas, and wallabies, oh my! There’s only one continent in the world where you can all see these amazing critters in their natural habitats. With diverse rainforests, the infamous outback, and the astounding Great Barrier Reef, Australia offers every aspect of nature and wildlife imaginable. With so many things to do across the continent, travelers can snorkel, hike, and boat their way through the many different ecosystems that exist in Australia.

Grand Canyon

 

Looking for a grand time within the United States? Look no further than the Grand Canyon. The Colorado River began to flow over an area of Arizona over 17 million years ago, and today you can see the incredible result. A trip to the Grand Canyon offers an incredible chance to hike, raft, and explore a natural wonder. As the second largest canyon in the world, the Grand Canyon stretches over 270 miles, with depths reaching over a mile. Besides the amazing views, the canyon gives visitors the chance to interact with desert wildlife that call the canyon home.

African Safari

 

The African wild has something to offer for every nature lover: from the famous “big five” that call the Serengeti home, to the deltas that span across the landscape. As you make your way across the wild, be prepared to roam with the lions, giraffes, and hippos as well.

Victoria Falls

 

Though Africa is famous for the Serengeti and the incredible wildlife that occupies it, it is also home to many other amazing natural wonders, including Victoria Falls. Standing at over 360 feet high, Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world. Breathtaking views and beautiful walks around the waterfall will wow every traveler.

Costa Rica

 

Costa Rica is every nature lovers paradise. From flora and fauna, to sand and surf, Costa Rica has it all. The county boasts 4% of the world's total species, along with coral reefs, rainforests, deciduous forests, and volcanoes. With so many different aspects to explore, Costa Rica is the ideal place to escape to.

Iguassu Falls

 

Your family trip to Niagara just didn't cut it? As the second largest waterfall in the world, Iguassu Falls offers breathtaking views and allows you to experience the astounding tropical rainforest. When flying into the small city of Iguacu, you can see sprays of water mysteriously rising out of the ground. The falls are located within the tropical rainforest, and border both Argentina and Brazil. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s no surprise that this is a necessary travel destination for all nature lovers.

Antarctica

 

Even though Antarctica is the most difficult continent to reach, it offers the most unique experience for travelers. Here, penguins and polar bears roam their natural habitats with breathtaking glaciers in the background. Though the continent may not offer the flora and fauna of the others, it provides a glimpse into a completely different kind of nature.

Please visit our website for cheap tours packages.
www.geotrips.co.uk

source: stridetravel.com

Croatia, so much more than Dubrovnik

Croatia, so much more than Dubrovnik

Mention Croatia and everyone will tell you they’ve been to Dubrovnik. But the famous walled city is not the reason Croatia was for so long a jealously guarded secret of the hipster traveler.

Dubrovnik is certainly worth a visit, but to think you have experienced this stunning Balkan nation just by popping into its most popular tourist trap is to do it a huge disservice. Starting in the north, before heading toward that dreamy blue coastline, we’ve listed five other fascinating Croatian experiences that will give Dubrovnik a run for its money.

Capital culture, art and architecture
 
Begin in the capital Zagreb, where Austro-Hungarian and Communist-era architecture rub shoulders, and bohemian quirky cafes, perfect for people-watching, serve up great coffee.

Zagreb has a host of elegant galleries including the Mimara museum where you can admire a Rembrandt and the Mestrovic Atelier museum, dedicated to Croatia’s greatest sculptor. In the evenings, it is all about the buzz of trendy Tkalciceva.

Zagreb is also famous for its great antique markets. British Square offers the most authentic Communist mementos, while those seeking a real old-fashioned flea market should head to Hrelic/Jakusevac, just outside the city center.

Magical Plitvice National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plitvice is an idyllic stopover as you head south toward the Adriatic coast. There are 19.5 hectares to explore with 16 stunning turquoise lakes linked by serenely cascading waterfalls that will take your breath away.

Marked pathways, including 18km of wooden footbridges, allow you to walk on the lakes, pass behind waterfalls and wander through dense woodland. Take the family with you and see if they can spot the tracks of bears, wolves, deer or boar — all of whom call Plitvice home. Later, at one of the large upper lakes, hand them a fishing net and watch the delight on their faces as they catch some of the little stickleback fish swimming freely in the aqua blue waters. 

Adriatic island hopping
 
Croatia is home to Europe’s finest archipelago, and each island has its own stunning character. Island hopping is a no brainer if you make it this far south.

Mljet has swimmable salt lakes and a national park made for trekking; those wanting to party on the beach all night should head to Pag; for pristine nature lovers exploring northernmost Cres’ primeval forest is a real treat, while quiet Vis has the finest fish cuisine of them all.

For families though, the little Island of Rab, with its child-friendly beaches where the shallow, crystal clear Adriatic laps at your feet, is a must. In the evenings wander through the cobbled streets of the medieval town before grabbing an ice cream so you can sit by the quayside and watch the sun dip behind the quaint bell towers.

Latin charm in Opatija
 
Opatija reached its cultural zenith during the Austro-Hungarian Empire when the bourgeoisie built houses all over the town.

The agreeable all-year-round climate they loved so much now attracts bronzed Italians who regularly drive across the border to stay in the hotels that were once their grand residencies. Chic, and boasting a delightful local cuisine, Opatija is a jewel of a place.

Dictator’s playground; Brijuni National Park 
 
Now a national park, Brijuni was once the playground of former Yugoslavian dictator Josip Broz, known as “Tito.” During his 35-year grip on the nation between 1945 and 1980, Tito held many of his lavish parties on his private island retreats.

Both Veli Brijun and Mali Brijun islands are now open to the public. Veli was once Tito’s exotic zoo, filled with elephants, blue antelope, lamas, mountain zebras, Indian holy cattle and Somali sheep — all gifts from his famous foreign friends and leaders. Now it is a safari park that can be taken in as part of the island’s three-hour tour, or by yourself on a hired bike.

Finally, there is the Tito Museum, littered with pictures of the dictator with his famous guests. These include film stars Elizabeth Taylor and Sophia Loren, as well as world leaders Indira Gandhi and Fidel Castro. You can’t miss it, it’s the only place in Croatia with a black convertible Cadillac parked outside.

source: arabnews.com

 
 

Europe's most breathtaking sights -- Geotrips

If you want to travel far away while staying in Europe, the best idea is to discover the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.

Discover the most beautiful European landscapes with the Azores but also the wonderful Douro Valley in Portugal. You probably already know the Mont Saint-Michel but what about Bonifacio, Hallstatt, Hallerbos Forest or the Lofoten Islands?  

Choose your most beautiful landscape and book your stay in one of the best European destinations.

The Azores    Portugal

Leave the Portuguese coasts and get to Madeira Islands It is a perfect destination for nature and trekking lovers. Further in the Atlantic Ocean, more than 1400 kilometers from Lisbon are The Azores. This group of 9 volcanic islands offer breathtaking landscapes.

Galesnjak Island   Croatia

Welcome to the island of love. A few kilometers from Zadar, the Galesnjak Island, also known as Cupid Island is the only island in the world with a heart shape.

That shape was discovered by a cartographer in the late 19th century .The island is very small with an area of 130 square metres. It does not house any hotel or restaurant.

Hallstatt   Austria

Hallstatt, a wonderful Austrian village that is so beautiful that its perfect copy was rebuilt in China (so was Colmar in Alsace which was reproduced and rebuilt in Malaysia). In both cases the originals are obviously more authentic.

Come and discover this small village of 800 inhabitants by staying in Hallstatt or in the nearby town of Salzburg.

Tuscany   Italy

Tuscany is one of the best places to live a peaceful retirement in Europe. The capital is the beautiful and romantic Florence. Tuscany has other great cities such as the very famous Pisa. Tuscany is obviously one of the most beautiful regions in Italy.

Rhine waterfalls    Switzerland

The Rhine waterfalls, among the largest waterfalls in Europe, will amaze you. If you are sporty climb the rock in the middle of these waterfalls and take a picture with the Swiss flag.
 

The Svartissen Glacier   Norway

Welcome to the confines of Europe, close to the Arctic Circle and discover the Svartissen Glacier, the second largest glacier in Norway, from tourist route number 17 which runs along the entire Norwegian coast. 

Mullerthal Region   Luxembourg

In the Mullerthal Region – Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland, the visitor can spend a diversified vacation. Echternach, the eldest city of the country, is considered as historic hot spot and capital of the whole region. Hikers will encounter a well signalled hiking net throughout the whole region and they may discover impressive rock formations, romantic brook valleys, amazing view points on the valley of the Sûre. The small villages are quite charming and the old ruins of the castles of Beaufort and Larochette as well as the Schiessentümpel cascade are worth a visit.

 
The Douro Valley   Portugal

The Douro Valley is simply splendid in photos, but discovering it  will make you speechless. No photos or videos can make you feel the beauty of the landscape classified as a Unesco world heritage.

The Faroe Islands    Denmark

Situated between Scotland and Iceland the Faroe Islands are autonomous and constituent of Denmark. "Faroe Islands" means "island of the sheep" With 1400 km2 of preserved nature on 18 islands they are perfect for people who like low temperatures (11 degrees in summer and not less than 3 degrees in winter).

 

Come and discover the incredible flora of the Faroe Islands but also its inhabitants and enjoy one of the most beautiful scenery in Europe.

Positano    Italy

Positano is a postcard destination. This destination, which is also one of the best destinations for a honeymoon in Europe, is one of the most romantic villages on the Amalfi Coast. You may know the legend: Neptune created the village to please one of his nymphs.

Bled    Slovenia

Bled is one of the most famous destinations in Slovenia. Its magnificent castle listed among the most beautiful castles in Europe overlooks the lake of Bled on which you can see the only island of Slovenia. Come and discover Bled by booking your hotel, guesthouse, apartment at the best price guaranteed and your best activities and tours.

Oludeniz    Turkey

Come discover the beauty of the natural landscapes that make Oludeniz one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Under the blue flag, you will enjoy pure turquoise water and the quiet of a protected nature reserve.Go paragliding in Oludeniz and fly over one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

The Lofoten Islands   Norway

The Lofoten Islands are a dream destination for many travellers from all over the world. This archipelago offers one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe. It is a quiet and peaceful place inhabited by  a few fishermen  who enjoy the fishy waters of Lofoten.

 

This archipelago owes its name "Lofoten" to its form, that of the footprint of a lynx.

Come and see the best tours and activities in Norway and book your accommodation on the Lofoten Islands at the best price.

source: europeanbestdestinations.com 

10 of the best adventure holidays in Europe

Walk, cycle, kayak or horse ride around some of the continent’s most stunning and remote corners

Horse riding in Cappadocia, Turkey. Photograph: Keren Su/Corbis

Horse-riding, Turkey

The Persians named Cappadocia “the land of beautiful horses” after its wild mountain ponies – and the striking landscape of deep canyons and strangely shaped rocks is perfect for an unusual horseback adventure. Ride Worldwide has an eight-day group trip that crosses plateaux, canters along valley floors and explores remote villages. With up to six hours in the saddle each day, it’s best for intermediate riders and above. Riders camp each night in a tipi (putting them up themselves), and dine in traditional style on kilims and rugs in the central tent. There’s also an option of guesthouse or boutique hotel accommodation.

Long distance treks, Balkans

Stopping to admire the scenery on a long distance trek in Montenegro. Photograph: Rene Mattes/Hemis/Corbis

A walking and cycling trail, the Via Dinarica, launched two years ago and runs for 1,000km from Slovenia’s Dinaric Alps in the north to Macedonia, via Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Albania. There are three options: the high mountain White Trail, the Green Trail, which is ideal for cyclists, and the easier Blue Trail, along the Dalmatian Coast. Local company Green Visions has tailor-made guided trips on the White Trail, and a Best of Via Dinarica group hike through Montenegro and Bosnia.

Wildlife adventure, Spain

On the trail of the elusive Iberian lynx in Spain. Photograph: Pete Oxford/Corbis

The Iberian lynx once roamed over half of the Iberian peninsula. Today it’s the rarest cat in the world and only found in two locations: the vast, coastal Doñana national park south of Seville, and the rugged Andújar natural park in the north of Andalucia. There’s plenty of adventure to be had in both parks – from 4x4 safaris to guided hikes – but for a good chance to see the elusive lynx, The Travelling Naturalist has a seven-night, expert-led group trip to both parks, where visitors also learn about conservation, and might spot other wildlife such as mouflon wild sheep and Spanish imperial eagles.

Cycling, Romania

With ancient forests, high mountains and Unesco-protected villages where life hasn’t changed for centuries, Transylvania offers one of Europe’s last great wildernesses, and plenty of fascinating history and culture, too. Adventure doesn’t need to be fast-paced; British firm The Slow Cyclist has new group and independent trips for 2016, lasting from three days to three weeks. Its four-day Enchanted Saxon Transylvania trip covers 90 miles, from the Saxon village of Cund south-east to Viscri at an unhurried pace with plenty of time to stop at local homes, visit shepherds on hilltops and discover little-visited historic sites.

Sea kayaking, Estonia

Estonia’s Baltic coast is wild and unspoilt. Many of its 1,500 islands, which were used in the 1950s for Soviet military testing, are now wildlife havens. Explore by kayak, paddling between islands with eerie remains of Russian watchtowers and abandoned farmhouses, and prolific birdlife. Adventure operator Reimann Retked offers several kayaking group trips, with hikes and camping on remote isles. Its two-day Prangli and Kolga Bay Islands tour visits four islands, with a stay on Prangli, still home to about 150 people. Scuba diving is an option on some trips.

Mountain hiking, Slovakia

Mountain walkers have plenty of options in Europe, with countless adventurous routes (Switzerland alone has over 30,000 miles of marked trails). For a less expensive alternative to the Alps, try Slovakia’s High Tatra, which runs along the border with Poland, offering dramatic walks with 20 summits of over 2,500m in just 26km. The soaring views of rocky peaks, lush valleys and sparkling lakes are reward for burning thigh muscles. To plan an independent trip, Geotrips.co.uk has details of routes and hotels. Alternatively, Utracks offers a new challenging guided eight-day group hut-to-hut trip: a head for heights and ability to walk with your own backpack for up to eight hours a day is recommended.

Canyoning, Corsica

This ruggedly beautiful French island might be a favourite for stylish beach holidays, but with more than 50 summits of over 2,000 metres, it offers challenging hiking, too (the GR20 trail is one of the toughest in Europe). It’s also something of a canyoning and climbing mecca, and local operator Altipiani Corsica’s trips include a seven-day individually tailored canyoning adventure, abseiling and scrambling down cliffs and jumping into rivers in some of the more remote areas of the island. There’s a choice of camping or hotel accommodation.

Diving and trekking, Iceland

With its wild volcanic landscapes, glaciers and hot springs, Iceland offers everything an adventure needs. Diving between the North American and Eurasian plates in the incredible Silfra fissure is an incredible underwater experience. Dive Worldwide has a three-night individual trip , including flights. Back on land, hiking dramatic, other-worldly terrain created by the lava formed when Eyjafjallajökull erupted in 2010 is the basis of a new, group, five-day hiking trip with Discover Adventure, including flights and most meals. Other highlights, such as the Skógá river and the 60-metre-high Skógafoss waterfall, are included, with accommodation in mountain huts along the way.

Road trip, Norway

With its mix of mountains, fjords, remote villages and quiet coastal roads, Norway is a strong contender for an adventurous self-drive. Go in summer when the days are long, pack a tent and wild camp along the way (it’s legal here, though there are great campsites and cabins, too). Among the most spectacular drives is from Bergen north to Trondheim which includes a stretch on the Atlantic Road, with eight bridges linking islands, and the chance to spot seals and whales. It’s about 430 miles, and winds through the longest road tunnel in the world and the zig-zag bends of Trollstigen. Fly back from Trondheim or, time-permitting, head back to Bergen via Sogndal. Norwegian flies to Bergen and Trondhein from Gatwick.

Ice climbing, Switzerland

For those who don’t mind the cold, a week of ice-climbing and mountaineering in the Swiss Alps offers an exhilarating winter adventure. A seven-night trip with the International School of Mountaineering involves sleeping in huts and bivouacs, carrying provisions and tackling untracked peaks . You do need to have experience, but for beginners there’s also a six-night Ice Climbing Skills option. All trips start from Leysin, less than two-hours from Geneva, and exact routes depend on weather conditions.

Source: theguardian.com