Taking the train in Europe is nowhere near as daunting as it once was, yet for some who have never done it, it can still be an overwhelming experience. The truth is, traveling by train is the best mode of transportation in most of Europe; it is easy, fast, and with a train in nearly every city, it is the most convenient (and scenic) mode of transportation. Plus, traveling by train gives you the chance to meet and hang out with the locals- augmenting your already cultural experience!
5. Use the German Railways Website
There is really only one website needed to check train schedules for all journeys in Europe, www.bahn.de. There is an option at the top of the page to peruse in English, if your German isn’t up to snuff, and everything is very simple yet comprehensive. For train travel anywhere in Europe, this is where you want to check times and schedules for every route across the continent. (although if you are booking a head of time and using a rail pass, you will have to book through local companies!) It won’t give you fares (except for German trips), but it will show you even the most complex, international voyages, all in one place.
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4. Buy and Go Tickets
Most tickets for local and regional trips can be bought at the station. The prices are always the same, so it is no advantage to you to book early- often it is impossible to reserve in advance! In Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg, domestic trains operate in the same fashion. Buying online merely saves a few seconds; however, if you crave spontaneity, this is the way to do it!
Trains in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Sweden, as well as most high-speed international trains to and from France, require a reservation in advance. It is not uncommon for these voyages to sell out, especially if you are traveling during peak hours. Prices for these trains are cheaper the earlier you books, sometimes by over 100$! Even if traveling with a Euro-Rail pass, reservations on these trains are compulsory. Be warned though, traveling strictly and frequently to and from these countries with a rail pass can be expensive as reservations for popular international routes (like Paris to Milan) are high, so depending on your plans, it is often better to travel without a pass.
Traveling to Europe is an exciting time, and most cannot wait to begin planning and mapping out all destinations and mandatory tourist spots. However, travelers can get confused when they are looking fotrr ain routes and nothing is available! Booking for trains in Europe only open 90 days ahead (for some countries in Eastern Europe it is 60). So if you are panicked because there is nothing available, be patient, as it is almost guaranteed more will pop up at a later date.
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1. What About Rail Passes?
Rail passes offer the user unlimited flexibility to travel around one or several countries. If you want a spontaneous, by-the-seat-of-your-pants experience, than a pass is the way to go. There are different kinds, some offering a punch-pass type style, others offering a limited number of days of unlimited travel. However, if traveling in Western Europe and across countries, reservations are still mandatory; if you are traveling on the train with frequency, be aware that costs can add up! But for those looking for complete freedom, a rail pass is the only way to go.
Foodies Unite. The list of the world’s 50 Best Restaurants of 2015 was just released. It seems that Europe has dominated once again this year with a slew of restaurants from France, Spain and Italy rounding out the top 50. There were some newcomers to the list this year as well, including one from Russia and the United States. Read on to discover why these 50 restaurants were named the best in the world for 2015, and maybe book some dinner reservations at one of these hot spots on your next trip.
50. The French Laundry -Yountville, CA, USA
For more than two decades the French Laundry has been serving up delicious French-American inspired cuisine and shows no sign of slowing down. One unique claim to fame is that no ingredient is ever repeated twice on the same menu. Visitors should expect dishes such as oysters and pearls here.
49. Blue Hill at Stone Barns -Pocantico Hills, NY, USA
This is the first time this restaurant has been seen on this list but it certainly won’t be the last. With a farm to table outlook, this restaurant focuses on delivering locally sourced and grown food to diners. Diners won’t find any printed menus here; instead they are subject to a multi-taste menu which includes ever-changing dishes depending on the season.
Romance meets exceptional cuisine here at this restaurant located in a castle in the Swiss Alps. Chef Andreas Caminada has been awarded three Michelin stars and is considered one of the best chefs in all of Europe. Modern French is the style of food and guests can expect simple and familiar ingredients bursting with aromas, textures and unbelievable flavor. The dining room with its grand marble floors and the extensive wine list make this an unforgettable experience.
Alain Ducasse has outdone himself once again with this sparkling dining room and unique menu based around healthy eating. The concept here is a menu based on a trilogy of fish, vegetables and cereal; produce that has been caught or grown in a sustainable and organic environment. The stainless steel shells that create the tables, the sparking chandelier and the first-class intriguing menu gets this restaurant an A+.
Although this restaurant is only five years old, it has taken Singapore and the world by storm with its incredible menu, dining area and uniqueness. Patrons can expect eight courses which reflect Chef André Chiang’s multi-culinary experience. The restaurant is located in a former shop house in China Town and features unusual art pieces and slick service.
This certified organic restaurant focuses less on elegant service and more on exceptional local food. Diners here will pour their own wine and help themselves to the cutlery in the table drawers. Don’t let that fool you though, the daily changing menu will entice and excite your palette. Using three or four ingredients Chef Christian Puglisi draws on his Italian background and combines that with a New Nordic style of food, creating dishes that look deceptively simple.
This restaurant is where you will find the perfect execution of Nikkei food, a blend of Peruvian-Japanese culture. A relatively simple looking restaurant, the focus is on the food here; offering a simple Japanese menu or a 15-course Nikkei menu. Patrons can sit up at the bar to watch the talented chefs’ work as they create dishes such as grilled octopus and confit of guinea pig with molle pepper.
Tickets is not just a restaurant but a complete dining experience with high cuisine innovations combined with a fun and exciting atmosphere. This cinema-themed operation serves up an amazing combination of modern Spanish style cuisine blended with flavors from all over the world. Patrons here enjoy letting the staff pick their meals for them, in an atmosphere than can only be described as unique and amazing. It is no surprise this restaurant has made the list.
The emphasis here is sustainable and seasonal dining and with both the Pacific Ocean and the Andes at their fingertips; the local ingredients are never ending. Chef Rodolfo Guzmán is known as a pioneer of Chilean cuisine and can be known to switch up the menu halfway through the evening depending on the availability of local ingredients. Expect Chilean native ingredients combined with the European culinary skill, to create an unforgettable dining experience.
This husband and wife team has done a brilliant job creating a homey, welcoming dining experience that is known for serving exceptional cuisine. Brazilian Born Rizzo Redondo recently won the title of World’ Best Female Chef and continues to create food based on her home roots, combined with her husband’s Spanish influence. Expect to see dishes that feature the catch of the day, foie gras and home-made flours and jams.
Since it opened in 2004, this restaurant has been on this list every single year and shows no sign of slowing down. The dining room with its impressive floor to glass windows overlooking Central Park sets the stage for an innovative and sophisticated menu. Seasonal American ingredients are often expressed in dishes that draw on French Cuisine, such as 100-day aged beef accompanied by tongue pirogi and borscht.
Chef Quique Dacosta is truly one of the leaders of avant-garde cuisine in Spain and stays true to his roots, using only ingredients that are locally sourced within 75-km from the restaurant. Each dish is truly a work of art and incorporates a mirage of colors. The tasting menus vary in size but some have up to 30 dishes to try; giving patrons the experience of an unforgettable multi-sensory experience.
The impressive wine list of over 1,100 wines and the elegant chandelier that features 4,320 bronze rods set the atmosphere for this exquisite French cuisine combined with Asian ingredients. Fish arrives daily and the chef Richard Ekkebus loves to combine the Pacific seafood with flavors from around the world. The finest meats, the finest wine pairings by an award-winning sommelier and a gorgeous atmosphere make Amber the place to be in Hong Kong.
A trio of chefs from different backgrounds are creating innovative and fun foods with a big focus on creativity. By combining Spanish and Mexican flavors, this trio is breaking down culinary barriers and highlighting once forgotten ingredients. Visitors should expect dishes such as a cauliflower truffled soup topped with radish pickles and olive spheres or foie gras candy floss.
This tiny Paris restaurant combines French cuisine with Far East flavors such as lemon grass, jasmine and daikon. There is no set menu here and diners simply choose the number of courses they want and the rest is up to chef Pascal Barbot and his team who send out surprise dishes. The wine list is all encompassing, the dining room is chic and modern and the experience is truly once-in-a-lifetime.
With a strong commitment on reducing the ecological footprint of its food combined with a desire to create dishes based on fresh seasonal ingredients and forgotten herbs and grains; Quintonil is taking Mexico City by storm. This restaurant focuses on indigenous produce and aims to highlight fruit and vegetables on the menu, not just for their taste but for their nutritional value as well. Chef Jorge Vallejo makes his debut on the list this year but we guess it won’t be the last time.
Chef Max Alajmo became the youngest person ever to win three Michelin stars back in 2002 and has since evolved Le Calandre into an excellent restaurant serving modern Italian cuisine. Guests have the choice of three menus here; a classic menu, a more modern take and one that is in-between the two. Diners can expect a level of Italian dining that is hard to find anywhere else with dishes such as extra virgin olive oil risotto with capers, coffee and rose.
The location itself makes this an unusual and interesting place to eat; Aqua is located on the edge of a theme park right next to the Volkswagen factory. Chef Sven Elverfeld inspires the reinvention of German peasant food in a modern and more global theme. This open-minded kitchen turns out dishes such as fresh local cheese with onion, vinegar and dark malted bread to yellow fin mackerel with guacamole, smoked corn foam and black quinoa.
The location might throw you for a loop as Attica is located deep within the suburbs of Southern Melbourne, but rest assured visitors to this restaurant are in for an unforgettable dining experience. Australian native ingredients are found more often than not on the plates and chef Ben Shewry isn’t afraid to experiment with new meats and spices. Along with the exceptional cuisine, expect a high entertainment factor with visits out to the garden and entertaining service staff.
Known all over the world for its modern Scandinavian cooking, this restaurant features an open kitchen, seasonal produce grown in its gardens and a bright but intimate dining room. Chef Björn Frantzén designs the flavorful menus with not just taste in mind but presentation as well. The well known signature dish ‘satio tempestas’ changes daily and can contain more than 40 different seasonal vegetables cooked in a variety of ways; all from the garden on-site.
Pushing the boundaries on traditional German cuisine has ensured that this restaurant get its name well known throughout the world. Drawing on French, Asian and New Nordic influences, Chef Joachim Wissler creates innovative dishes such as a two-part suckling pig dish complete with green and yellow curry sauces. Polished service, views overlooking the bay and a wine list with over 900 choices round out this incredible experience.
This intimate 18-seat restaurant looks to present seasonal ingredients through a traditional multi-course Japanese style menu; while introducing new and modern ideas. Patrons can expect dishes with seven different kinds of Japanese fish, complimented by a French leaning wine list. Chef Seiji Yamamoto creates the daily menus based on what is available at the morning markets and has created his own line of teas to compliment the food.
Rather than just a restaurant, The Test Kitchen is truly an experience packed full of imagination and artistic flair. The menus are a combination of international techniques, flavors and ingredients and more often than not the meals are turned into works of art. The massive open kitchen allows diners to be part of the process so expect the unexpected when you visit The Test Kitchen.
Alba is known all over the world for its truffles and elegant wines and chef Enrico Crippa certainly makes full use of the surrounding natural resources. The approach here is modern Italian mixed with an influence of world-wide flavors and classics are often paired with more daring choices such as olives made with minced veal. The luxurious seasonal white truffle menu is a favorite here and gives the chef an outlet to highlight the region’s most famous export.
This small Chicago restaurant is not only known for its unconventional approach to food but for its restaurant experience that is like no other. From mood lighting that changes the colors of the walls to expertly trained staff that can read tables and customers unlike any other in the industry, to edible balloons; patrons here will be in a world of delight. This truly personal experience will unfold in front of your over several hours and can only be described as truly remarkable and unforgettable.
It is the world’s most isolated restaurant; Fäviken can only serve 12 diners a night and is only open 34 weeks of the year. The multi-course menu focuses on ingredients that can be forged, hunted or farmed on the 24,000 acre hunting estate in which the restaurant is housed on. Traditional farmhouse cooking techniques are put into place to create irresistible flavors and unique dishes such as scallop cooked over burning juniper branches. The dining room with its slabs of meat and wolf skins create a most memorable dining experience.
A trip here is certainly unlike any other restaurant experience out there. Guests are driven to Ultraviolet in a mini bus as the location is one of the best kept secrets in this city. Only 10 diners at a time are welcomed into a room with white walls, a white table and 10 white chairs. What follows is a dining experience where each dish is eaten with a different soundtrack and the walls and table are transformed with pictures and film. The 10 course meal is full of delicate but flavorful interesting combinations of flavors.
This Alice in Wonderland themed restaurant features outstanding views of the historic center of Moscow, along with an exceptional menu featuring modern Russian dishes with international inspiration. Chef Valdimir Mukhin focuses on blending Russian produce with luxury ingredients producing meals such as rabbit mini cabbage rolls in foie gras sauce with potato crisps and truffle juice.
Although this restaurant is located in a hotel, there is nothing standard about this dining room. While Chef David Thompson is from Australia, he has taken the Thai world by storm and become an expert at this multi-faceted cuisine. Expect a wide range of traditional Thai cooking here and a tasting menu that will knock your socks off. Thompson loves to play with flavors and spice and most likely the main meal will include something of high spice level. It may not take you hours to complete a meal here but guests will leave feeling like they just ate one of the best meals of their lives.
This restaurant has been a leading force in the revolution of bistros in Paris. Gone are the days of white table cloths and overly expensive meals, they have been replaced by more relaxed atmospheres and excellent cuisine at affordable prices. The no frills dining room, the fixed menu written on the blackboards and the chef’s colorful history set the stage for a perfect dining experience. The food is a combination of French, Asian and Latin America and the lineup changes daily.
Although Chef Brett Graham originally hails from Newcastle Australia, you wouldn’t know it based on the menu that features the best of British produce along with local meats. The food here is refined, yet gutsy and the service impeccable which is why so many regulars appear to make this there favorite place to eat. One might even find out that the beautifully smoked venison on their plate was bagged by the chef himself.
This dining experience starts when you arrive at the eco-friendly glass building and are immediately taken on a tour of the grounds, greenhouse and gardens. The open kitchen which leads to the dining room sets the stage for a memorable dinner. Chef Eneko Atxa loves to push boundaries and discover new innovative cooking techniques. Guest will experience food such as a truffled egg which is cooked inside out. Invigorating flavors, the utmost creativity and a passionate chef await visitors at Azurmendi.
This restaurant was started in Paris in 1972, then it moved to New York in 1986 and has had the same famous head chef since 1994. Needless to say it has won numerous awards, been the favorite seafood restaurant of New York for decades and continues to amaze guests with its spectacular raw fish dishes. Traditional French cuisine meets skillful Japanese techniques in this example of extraordinary dining.
The father daughter team of Juan Mari Arzak and Elena Arzak Espina seem almost unstoppable in conquering the culinary world in this region that is full of creativity and fertility. Juan Mari Arzak is known for having pioneered modern Basque cuisine and they have combined local flavors with international sauces and compliments. Visitors here should expect a modern twist on all of their favorite local cuisine.
Pujol is consistently rated as one of the top 20 restaurants in the world and is known as the very best in Mexico. Determination to use native ingredients and modern cooking techniques create unusual flavors, while inventing new dishes and recreating the old has given this chef a leg up over others. The main focus here is the attention that is paid to making sure each and every last detail of a dish is perfect, and each flavor is exposed to its finest.
Chef Heinz Reitbauer aims to create the very finest of contemporary Austrian cuisine in a relaxed, chic setting and he does so quite memorably. He is in fact known for his cutting edge techniques and using the finest ingredients from his hometown. Many of the ingredients actually come from his family’s own farmstead. Expect innovative dishes such as the freshwater Char cooked in beeswax with yellow carrot, pollen and sour cream.
This restaurant coexists with a bar, experimental herb garden and development kitchen in a deprived area of Lima but don’t let that stop you from visiting. Take a trip down memory lane with a menu that tells the story of each individual dish and how they relate to growing up in Peru. The dishes use ingredients from all over this rich diverse country and one certainly gets a taste of Peruvian history at this restaurant.
Chefs flock from all over the world to see Chef Victor Arguinzoniz in action over his wood grill, as he is hailed as the founding father of creative barbecue in Europe. Ingredients here are simple and fresh, with many that have been grown, picked and butchered by the chef himself. Everything on the menu hits the wood grill and has the delicate taste of smoke throughout, creating a simple yet delicious and exceptional experience.
This restaurant is taking vegetables to a whole new level and making them the forefront of an incredible menu. Think beetroot tartar instead of the traditional beef tartar and an emphasis on ingredients such as grapefruit, almonds and sweet peas. Considered a culinary genius, Chef Alain Passard creates sensational tasting food with a contemporary French feeling.
Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea with floor to ceiling glass windows, this restaurant is big on highlighting local seafood. Pairing that seafood with herbs, flowers, fruits and vegetables that are grown in the garden to create exceptional dishes is the primary approach here. Innovating cooking techniques, artfully presented plates and a combination of French, Italian and Argentinean flavors make this dining experience amazing.
Progressive Indian is the style of food here in this downtown Bangkok restaurant. The approach taken by Chef Gaggan Anand is to take street dishes and deconstruct them, creating new innovative menu items without losing the flavors. This restaurant also features liquid nitrogen, smoke and dehydrated ingredients to give additional texture and flavor to its dishes, as well as adding a little bit of dinner theater.
This is one of the most expensive restaurants in Brazil but considering that many of the ingredients come from deep within the interior of the Amazon, that’s no surprise. Chef Alex Atala is known for searching out new ingredients and bringing them back to his restaurant for diners to try. The dining room is formal, yet relaxed and the emphasis here is on reshaping Brazilian food and convincing others to use the natural resources that are so plentiful.
This restaurant is truly a representation of the chef, the landscape and his love for the natural world. Although Japanese products are the focal point here, there is a strong influence of French cooking. Known internationally for being one of the best restaurants in the world, Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa takes great pride in his thoughtfully constructed food and wine list. It may be in fact the best place to appreciate the wine making of Japan.
Less than five years old this restaurant has made leaps and bounds, becoming a restaurant that recreates British culinary history. Forgotten dishes are brought back to life and reinvented using modern cooking techniques and present day ingredients. The dining experience is not thwarted by theatrics or entertainment; instead they let the flavors speak for themselves.
This dining experience is more of a journey through food rather than just a sit down restaurant with set menus. Guests here will experience 24 individually tailored courses based on their dietary needs and wants. It is not just the flavors here that are important to Chef Andoni Luis Aduriz but the smells and textures he provides in his dishes. Edible cutlery and centerpieces along with the breathtaking scenery from the small wooden dining room will only make the experience that much more unique.
Walking into this restaurant one might think that it appears quite grand, formal and perhaps a bit stuffy but one would be wrong. It is indeed playful and interactive from the service to the food itself. Co-owners Daniel Humm and Will Guidara have done a remarkable job in running both the back and front of house in the best ways possible, thus creating an unforgettable dining experience. Tasting menu’s frequently feature New York’s agricultural bounty but this duo has been known to tailor dishes specific to each guest individually.
This is a whole new dining experience as the chefs take guests on a vertical tour of Peru through food. The tasting menu features ingredients sourced at various altitudes, starting from 25 meters below to 4,200 meters above sea level. Diners are faced with ingredients found and tasted nowhere else in the world as well as being treated to food grown in the urban gardens onsite. There is a true sense of dedication here to discovering new local ingredients and how to best use them in the dishes.
Noma has been open since 2003 and is hailed as one of the most influential restaurants of the century, and thus it is no surprise to see it at the top of this list. The focus here is creating dishes based on what’s in season and playing with techniques such as pickling and fermenting. The cuisine style appears to be more of an interpretation of Nordic food and Chef René Redzepi and his teams are known for their ability to assimilate culinary cultures other than their own.
At 20 years old, this restaurant and its chef have nailed down impeccable service and food. Chef Massimo Bottura is internationally known around the world but remains true to his Italian roots in his cooking. The menu is loaded with Italian classics such as risotto cooked with veal jus, along with many classics that have a unique twist. Local, seasonal ingredients are used, the wine program is impeccable and the atmosphere sets the stage for a perfect dining experience.
The trio of the Roca brothers who collectively run this restaurant have certainly not forgotten their humble roots. The dining experience in the glass-walled dining room complete with an innovative menu, delicious wine pairings and a soothing atmosphere makes this the number one restaurant in the world this year. Add in the fact that this team does everything to educate and inspire the team they lead through unusual initiatives, including a restaurant tour in 2014 across the Southern United States and Latin America; and it is easy to understand why they are number one.
No need to worry, this article is completely safe-for-work. No photos of an embarrassing uncle who is all too comfortable in his own skin either (although you may want to send him this link once done reading). We North Americans may not be as accepting to the nude trend (at least we’re told not to be) but that is not how it works in the rest of the world. There are certainly a few in South America, but for the most part, Europe is where the “action” is.
Spanning the globe looking for a place to sport your birthday suit can be an intimidating task as most people may not want to ask “Where’s the closest nude beach?” Therefore, the purpose of this guide is to avoid that embarrassing question, but then again, nude beaches aren’t for the timid so ask that question anyway. We’ve got the answers, here are the top 10 places in Europe to strip off that last layer and be young, wild and free. Or something like that.
10. Wenningstedt-Braderup -Sylt, Germany
Off the northwest coast of Germany (near Denmark) is the island of Sylt. Among the plethora of family-friendly beaches, beaches for dogs/animals, there is of course nudist beaches tucked into this little known region of Germany, and Wenningstedt-Braderup is one of the latter. Wide and spacious, this beach is a forerunner in Germany’s “free body culture” movement also referred to as the FKK. Bare it all next to the North Sea in northern Europe. It might be a little colder due to its location on the top side of the country, but the sand and water are as remarkable as the freedom to let it all fly at this large open space. Among the nude beach however, the town of just over 1,400 has garnered over 1 million overnight stays, and is the fifth-largest tourist resort in the area. So, there is bound to be some company out near the water as well.
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9. Playa de Ses Illetes -Formentera, Spain
Playa de Ses Illetes is a stone’s throw south of the party-crazy Ibiza, Spain. If in Ibiza to go wild, maybe a trip to the local nude beach will seem like a better idea to those who normally wouldn’t be so adventurous. It is such a small place; there is no way to get there through the air. Ferry, bus or cabs are the only available methods of transport in order to reach this location. Spectacular beaches with crystal-clear water will smack tourists in the face (figuratively speaking of course), and almost all of them are nude-friendly. A much more accepted social construct than over here. Playa de Ses Illetes is one of the most popular nude beaches in the area as the white sand and sparkling waters make it incredibly appealing to the eye even if the passersby are not. Be forewarned that July and August are peak months and are likely to be very busy.
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8. Ilha Deserta -Olhao, Portugal
Where number nine on the list is a much more populous area due to its closeness to Ibiza, Ilha Deserta may offer a more tranquil experience given the fact the area is uninhabited. Just one restaurant exists there, leaving travelers alone to ponder their weird, naked thoughts. A 30-minute water-taxi ride is the way to get to the island whose name translates to “Desert Island”. While there is only one restaurant in the southern-most part of Portugal, that doesn’t mean there is nothing fun to do. Jamanta party boats can be rented for your friends, carrying up to 200 people. There are also nature tours and regular boat tours that are a bit more toned down. Portugal is a tolerant place with one of the most reformed criminal justice systems in the world, so it’s no wonder they are so free spirited when it comes to nude policy.
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7. Filaki Beach -Crete, Greece
Crete is known for its incredibly picturesque beaches and beautiful sunsets with Filaki being one of those that stand out among a tough crowd. It is secluded enough to be private; at the end of a long, winding road and partially hidden by an overhanging cliff. It comes with plenty of sun beds, umbrellas and of course a snack bar. Filaki prides itself on being the only “Official” nude beach of Crete. Nudity is actually so accepted in the area that just down the road is the nudist friendly Hotel Vritomartis. While it is a fine beach, it is conveniently located close to a number of other nude-friendly beaches. Need more nude? A local tavern is noted as having almost completely nude clientele, some of which simply walk direct to and from the beach, to their cars and back without getting dressed. A nudist’s paradise, Filaki Beach in Greece is a standout on the list.
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6. Guvano Beach -Corniglia, Italy
In order to get to Guvano Beach one must walk through an abandoned railway tunnel that has both entrance and exit visible at all times (a good safety feature if naked). It is not unlike others on the list in that it’s hidden away from the touristy spots, with a backdrop of cliffs and a secluded entrance way along the railroad tracks. It’s roomy out there, and the water is just as accommodating. Seeing is better than believing, as this remote Italian town is built on top of a cliff surrounded by beautiful forests and steep hills. It is recommended to stay overnight to explore all the region has to offer, and book a ferry or boat tour while there. Guvano Beach has less of a resort feel than other beaches on the list do, and more of a private secluded getaway feel, made for a secret agent or celebrity.
France has several nude beaches and Plage de Tahiti is a shining example. Sitting on the French Riviera’s Mediterranean shoreline it’s simply an astonishing site. Picture-perfect sand and waves await visitors, and it’s said to be a favourite of some celebrities, so no cameras please. Lonely Planet describes it simply as a “magnificent sandy beach” but that doesn’t really do it justice. There’s a peer, several bars, restaurants and enough umbrellas to find one for your own. Nearby hotels make for a great vacation spot although, the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean can get a little bit pricey. Unless the chequing account agrees, don’t plan on staying long without putting a dent in the bank account as mentioned before, this is a popular area for celebs (especially around the time of the Cannes Film Festival) and the prices are very likely to reflect that.
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4. Agesta Beach -Stockholm, Sweden
The official nude beach of Stockholm, family, friends and couples all hang out in this area at Agesta. This is where one is likely to be neck-deep in nudist culture. Play areas (whatever that means), picnic tables and barbecue areas are all available for groups to have a great time and enjoy themselves. While the country is more likely known for its love of hockey and cheap furniture, nudity is rather widely accepted in Sweden, and is certainly encouraged as a nudist destination for anyone visiting the capital city. This also means there’s no need to be embarrassed! It’s simply a part of life there. The beach is owned and operated by the government and is likely unknown (and rather unexpected for that matter) to foreign nationals. Stockholm buses reach the beach or you may even drive from the city and simply follow the signs or naked people to get to the correct destination. Stockholm can get cold, so bring appropriate clothing along, too.
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3. Playa de los Muertos -Almeria, Spain
Hold onto your hats because Playa de los Muertos translates to “Beach of the Dead”. However, the Walking Dead isn’t filming here and the name doesn’t really have anything to do with it. This pebble beach has sparkling deep turquoise waters that give the feeling of tranquility at first glance. There aren’t many facilities on site, but this helps to keep the beach less busy in peak months; of course nudists will be there all year round. It’s a bit of a trek to reach the beach from the volcanic cliffs, but it is well worth it. In fact, many tourists advise bringing some snacks and drinks to ensure enough energy for the journey back! The downward adventure is not advised for children, the elderly or in flip-flops/sandals. It can get a bit slippery and it is harder to traverse on the way back up than it is on the way down.
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2. Valalta -Rovinj, Croatia
Technically referred to as a “naturist campsite”, Valalta takes on nudity full bore. There exists a swim-up bar, a waterslide into a pool, and beer tasting at the on-site brewery. This is essentially an inclusive vacation resort… just with nudity! Thousands of nudists are present at any given time; however the facility is large and spacious enough to accommodate everyone. Different types of beaches including stone and sand make up this pleasant village with plenty of pools, restaurants and even a market for fresh food. Expect to make friends if planning to return, many of the guests have been visiting for generations and make it a yearly ritual to return with their families. So if that’s your thing, invite grandma, grandpa, even your brother and sister along for the family vacay. Croatia is a beautiful country and this resort is no exception.
As with most of the beaches near the beautiful backdrop that is the Mediterranean Sea, Plage de Pampelonne attracts the rich, famous and the nude. Nude or non-nude guests are welcome to reserve a beach bed or parasol to be both comfy and covered from the sun. It is also a bit of a legend that once the sun goes down, the beaches aren’t the only places that allow nudity but nearby clubs as well. Plush greenery and picturesque trails lead to and from the beach that make walking anywhere a delight. Several beachside restaurants give a resort feel, and there are cabins to rent in the area should one wish. The view is certainly spectacular as yachts float about adding to the glitz and glamour the water already provides, and to the many reasons this beach is number one on the list. Class, elegance and fun are at the forefront at Plage de Pampelonne, where nudity is simply accepted rather than a requirement or overbearing necessity.
Even though North America is home to some great sports venues, a number of countries throughout the world have very unique and original designs that home some of their most cherished sports teams. Some are nearly brand new, some are bordering on holy sites to team fans, and some are just plain cool to see, but each stadium provides the spectator with a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Here are some of the best stadiums that given the chance, you should definitely check out on your travels:
13. The Float@Marina Bay (Singapore)
Located in Singapore, The Float@Marina Bay is the largest floating stage in the world. Made entirely of steel, the platform can sustain a total weight the equivalent of: 9,000 people, 200 tons of stage equipment and three 30-ton military vehicles. The stadium has a capacity of 30,000 and hosts a number of events including soccer, concerts and exhibitions. Try to get there soon, though. The Float@Marina Bay will see a decrease in use once the new National Stadium is finished construction.
The stadium known as the “San Siro” is located in the San Siro district of Milan, Italy and is the home of famous soccer clubs A.C. Milan and F.C. Internazionale Milano. Though the capacity is somewhat less than its peak, the San Siro still boasts a capacity of over 80,000. The stadium is set to host the final of the 2016 UEFA Champion’s League, and has seen a number of renovations over the years after first opening in 1926. However, the stadium is set to see a decline in use in the near future, as Internazionale have plans to move out of the stadium into their own venue.
Host to the 2010 World Cup final, the stadium is officially named the First National Bank Stadium, or FNB Stadium but is more effectively nicknamed “The Calabash” (in reference to an African pot, similar in appearance) or simply “Soccer City”. The stadium saw a number of major renovations take place in the buildup to the World Cup final. With a capacity over 90,000 Soccer City is the largest stadium in the continent of Africa. The venue was also the site of the first speech given by Nelson Mandela upon his release from prison in 1990, and was where his memorial service was held. Currently, the stadium is the home of the South African national soccer and rugby teams, as well as club soccer team Kaizer Chiefs.
Stockholm’s Ericsson Globe Arena is the largest hemispherical building in the world, and required more than 2 years worth of construction before it was finished. Shaped like a giant golf ball, the stadium has a diameter of 361 feet, and a height of 279 feet. Seating capacity is just over 16,000 for concerts and shows, and just under 14,000 for ice hockey. The Ericsson Globe is one of the most instantly identifiable stadiums in the world due to its unique shape, and even provides visitors with the chance to travel up an inclined elevator to the top of the arena, providing a great view overlooking all of Stockholm.
Officially ranked as the fifth largest soccer stadium in the world, Azadi Stadium in Tehran, Iran has had a record attendance of 128,000 for a match between the Iranian and Australian national soccer teams. Located in the west of Tehran, the stadium provides easy access for the majority of the cities inhabitants. Though it has a simple concrete bowl style design, the sheer size of this behemoth is amazing. The stadium is home to a pair of soccer clubs, and remains the home for the national squad.
More casually referred to as, Melbourne Rectangular Stadium is certainly one of the most unique design concepts for a stadium. Having just opened in 2010, the stadium still has a new feel in comparison to most. Boasting a capacity that is just over a modest 30,000 the stadium is home to a number of Melbourne’s soccer and rugby clubs. The “Bioframe” design features a geodesic dome roof that provides cover to most of the seats, but still allows for natural light to shrine onto the pitch.
Roland Garros is arguably the most identifiable tennis venue in the world. The famous complex hosts the French Open that is played annually around the end of May or beginning of June. The stadium is named after French hero Roland Garros, inventor of the forward-firing aircraft machine gun, and first pilot referred to as an “ace” during World War I. The complex contains 20 courts, and even a Tenniseum, a museum dedicated to the history of tennis. The Court Phillipe Chatrier is the largest court, and is instantly identifiable to sports fans for its distinct red-clay playing surface.
Nicknamed by English soccer legend Sir Bobby Charlton the “Theatre of Dreams” is the second largest soccer stadium in the United Kingdom after Wembley Stadium. Old Trafford has been home to one of the most famous teams in the world, Manchester United F.C. and has served as the team’s home ground since 1910. Current capacity at Old Trafford is north of 75,000 and is expected to see some further renovations in the coming years as the stadium continues to be refurbished to keep up-to-date with the most modern of venues.
Home to one of the world’s finest soccer clubs FC Bayern Munich, the Allianz Arena was the first in the world to feature a color-changeable exterior, as the stadium also hosts a second Munich soccer club as well as the 2014 World Cup Champion German national team. The stadium was constructed to host the 2006 World Cup final and is one of the most instantly recognizable in all of Europe. Around 70,000 soccer-mad German fans pack the venue every time Bayern Munich or the German national team takes the pitch, providing for a fantastic atmosphere.
The largest stadium in Taiwan, this venue is truly of world-class design. Completed in 2009, the National Stadium is used mostly for soccer matches with a capacity of 55,000 spectators. Not only is the stadium defined by its dragon-like design, but also the exterior is covered in solar panels that provide nearly 100% of the power for the facility, the first in the world to do so.
The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium is a very special place in sports. Even the most casual of soccer fan across the globe has heard of Real Madrid, the giant club that calls the Bernabeu home. Not only does the team feature some of the finest talent in the world, but more than 80,000 screaming fans routinely take in matches in the capital of soccer obsessed Spain. Plans for a redevelopment are underway to increase that capacity up to 88,000 in the near future as the stadium, which opened in 1944 looks to bring in some more modern additions to enhance the spectating experience.
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2. Estádio Alberto J. Armando (Argentina)
Situated in the La Boca district of the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires, this stadium is nicknamed “La Bombonera” or the “Chocolate Box” in English, because of its unique “flat” stand on one side, surrounded by three steep stands on the other sides. This very unusual shape allows for 49,000 fans to fill the stadium for home games for famous Argentinian soccer club Boca Juniors. The shape allows the venue to have excellent acoustics, which makes the stadium an extremely intimidating place to play for visitors. More work is being done on the stadium, taking the atmosphere to the next level while providing more features to supporters.
Though it only has a capacity just over 30,000 the Estádio Municipal de Braga is unforgettable. Opened in 2003 and home to Portuguese soccer club Sporting Clube de Braga, the stadium was carved from a quarry overlooking the city. Behind the goal at one end, spectators and players alike get a magnificent view of the rock walls surrounding the stadium with the city sprawling in the distance. To get around the stadium, fans travel through a plaza built beneath the surface. The stadium has received critical acclaim for its architectural design, and is approved by UEFA for use at the highest levels of club soccer.
When people think of a European getaway, they tend to name off places like London, Paris, and Rome. While each of those cities has earned its spot on various travelers’ bucket lists, there are many cities that are just as worthy of “must see” status that are a little more off the beaten path. Northern Europe tends to get the short end of the stick when it comes to tourism, despite its rich, long and varied history. With small populations, limited influence and often harsh climates, the northern countries, including Scandinavia, Finland and the Baltics don’t exactly seem like havens for travelers – but these underrated escapes are also home to some of the most beautiful, diverse and storied cities in all of Europe. Here are 10 of the hidden gems in Europe’s Northern kingdoms.
10. Roskilde, Denmark
Roskilde is a city with only 50,000 inhabitants, but it’s easily one of the most important cities in Denmark; in fact, it was the Danish capital for many generations. The city dates back to the Viking Age and, according to medieval sources, was the site of a royal palace and a cathedral built by Harald Bluetooth, the legendary founder of Denmark. Though the Roskilde Cathedral that stands today dates from 12th and 13th centuries, Harald Bluetooth’s tomb is here, along with the graves of other Danish monarchs. Attached to the cathedral is Roskilde Palace. Roskilde is also famed for its Viking Ship Museum, which houses the remains of 5 well-preserved Viking ships, which were unearthed from the Roskilde Fjords surrounding the city.
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9. Turku, Finland
Before the capital moved to Helsinki in 1812, Turku was the most important city in Finland. Today, it’s still an important center and one of the largest cities in Finland. Situated at the mouth of the Aura River, Turku is integral to both Finnish tourism and business. Of the notable sites, the Cathedral of Turku, erected in the 1300s, is a must-see, along with the Castle of Turku. Due to its location on the Baltic, Turku boasts scenic coastline and access to many small islands in the Archipelago Sea. Like its much-larger Swedish counterpart, Stockholm, the city’s maritime culture encourages day trips to the islands. And yes, there are tours highlighting the design and architecture that the Finns are famous for.
How far north can you go? In Sweden, the answer is Kiruna, an Arctic Circle town that is home to the world’s very first ice hotel. Here, the aurora borealis put on a spectacular display during long winter nights and the midnight sun dominates summer days. A train will take you north to the land of cloudberries, the traditional home of the Sami. In the winter, 2 nearby mountains, Kiirunavaara and Luossavaara, provide excellent skiing and the nearby lake Luossajarvi can be used for ice skating. Dog sledding is another popular activity and every winter, the town holds a Snow Festival. Kiruna Church, built in Gothic Revival style in 1912, is one of Sweden’s largest wooden buildings and was voted Sweden’s most popular pre-1950s building.
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7. Tampere, Finland
The “Manchester of Finland,” or “Manse” in Finnish, Tampere is located between 2 lakes, Nasijarvi and Pyhajarvi. The lakes are at different levels and the Tammerkoski rapids that link them run through the city. Founded in the 18th century by the Swedish King Gustav II, Tampere is renowned as a center of cultural life in Finland. The third largest city in the country is home to multiple theaters, an international theater festival, a short film festival, an urban rock festival and the Tampere Floral Festival. Tampere is also home to many museums, including a spy museum, the Finnish Hockey Hall of Fame and a shoe museum, as well as one of the last museums in the world dedicated to Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin.
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6. Aalborg, Denmark
Built at the narrowest point on the Limfjord, Aalborg rose to prominence as one of the most important harbors in Northern Europe during the Middle Ages. Today, it’s become an important hub of culture, even hosting one of the largest annual festivals in Scandinavia. Aalborg has many theaters, performance venues and museums, along with an orchestra and opera company. Budolfi Church, now a cathedral, was consecrated in the 1300s, and in 1550 a royal residence was built in the city. Aalborg’s most famous buildings, however, may be the half-timbered mansions, built by the city’s prosperous merchants such as Jorgen Olufsen. Also notable is Jomfru Ane Gade (Virgin Anne’s Street), noted among travelers for its cafes during the day and clubs at night!
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5. Reykjavik, Iceland
Although not “Europe” in the strictest sense, Iceland is often included in discussions of Northern Europe thanks to its Norse heritage. The capital, Reykjavik, is situated on a peninsula. The hills Öskjuhli∂ and Skolavör∂uholt are former volcanoes and the mountains of the Blafjöll range for the city’s backdrop. Also nearby is the famed Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa. The city is home to the largest church in Iceland, the parliament building, and several museums and art galleries. Iceland is renowned for its natural beauty, and Reykjavik boasts Hofdi, a nature reserve; a cluster of red volcanic craters; and a geothermally heated beach. Reykjavik is most renowned for its nightlife, with over 100 bars and clubs, many of which are open until 4:30 am on weekends.
Although Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania, and the second-largest city in the 3 Baltic states, it’s often passed over by tourists, if only for the fact that, for much of its history, it has been under the rule of one country or another, most recently as part of the Soviet Union until 1990. Nonetheless, this beautiful city has centuries of history to share with visitors. Lying at the confluence of the Vilna and Neris Rivers, Vilnius was founded during the Middle Ages. It soon became the capital, in part because its geography made it less vulnerable to attack. Vilnius boasts ancient churches and palaces, many in Baroque or Eastern Orthodox styles. A trip through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, won’t disappoint!
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3. Trondheim, Norway
Founded in 997, Trondheim served as the capital of Norway during the Viking Age, until 1217. Long the seat of the Norwegian royal family, the city is situated on the River Nidelva, which flows through Trondheim and supplies water to the surrounding fjords. Munkholmen, a small islet, is a popular tourist destination, and the Stiftsgarden, a 17th century royal palace, is quite possibly the largest wooden building in Northern Europe. The Nidaros Cathedral, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world, dominates most views of the city. The cathedral is only one of many historic churches in the city, although many buildings have been lost in fires over the centuries. Surrounded by wetlands, it’s not uncommon to see animals like foxes and moose in the city.
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2. Uppsala, Sweden
This quintessentially Swedish city was, for centuries, incredibly important in Swedish culture. Just an hour by train out of Stockholm, Uppsala features the medieval Domkyrka cathedral, a 17th century royal palace, the oldest university in Scandinavia, the house of Carl Linneaus, Viking graves at Gamla Uppsala and runestones scattered about the city. Uppsala is relatively small compared to cities like Stockholm, but that makes it all the more pleasant. The slower pace of life, along with fantastic scenery and parks along the River Frysen, make Uppsala one of the most underrated cities in Northern Europe. At the end of April, students celebrate Walpurgis Night (Valborg in Swedish) by floating homemade boats down the river and drinking copious amounts of champagne.
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1. Tallinn, Estonia
Like Vilnius, Tallinn is a beautiful Baltic city that has been overlooked by travelers, although tourism to the city has been growing. Tallinn is Estonia’s largest city, with 32 percent of the population calling it home. The capital is situated on Estonia’s northern coast, across the Gulf of Finland; it’s just 50 miles from Helsinki, Stockholm, and St. Petersburg. Never razed or pillaged (although bombed during World War II), Tallin’s Old Town is one of Europe’s best preserved medieval towns. Sites include the city walls, 2 towers, and numerous medieval churches. On Cathedral Hill, the main attraction is the medieval Toompea Castle, which houses the Estonian Parliament. Kadriog Palace, built by Peter the Great just after the Great Northern War, is another popular tourist destination.
Experiencing the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights is a goal for many people. This beautiful light display can only be seen in the late fall and winter months, and only from the northernmost areas of the world. Sometimes, when the lights are at their fullest, you can see them farther south, but this is a very rare occasion.
If it is your dream to see the Northern Lights, you will find that the following eight places offer you the best view of the Aurora Borealis.
1. Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks may be one of the northernmost cities in the United States, but it may not be north enough to enjoy the Northern Lights. There are, however, tours that are specifically designed to take people north past the Arctic Circle so that they can experience the Northern Lights. Visitors will need to fly into Anchorage and then find transportation to Fairbanks. One of the best methods is the Alaska Winter Snow Train. This is a wonderful ride through the wilderness and adds to the overall experience.
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2. Yellowknife, Canada
Yellowknife is the capital city of the Northwest Territory and is located about 250 miles south of the Arctic Circle. Famous for its gold and diamond mines, this city is also referred to as the “Northern Lights Capital of the World.” Once you leave the city area, you can see the Northern Lights with such clarity that it will take your breath away. Of course, make sure that you have some extra time to explore this relatively new yet historically rich city.
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3. Reykjavik, Iceland
This beautiful area is located on the very edge of the Arctic Circle. While Reykjavik offers one of the most accessible ways to see the Northern Lights, transportation to and from Iceland can be difficult, especially during the winter season when the Northern Lights are most prominent.
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4. Ivalo, Finland
Located in the Arctic right near the Russian border, Ivalo is one of the finest places on earth to experience the lights. In many cases the lights are so bright here that you can see them from the city. If you are having a hard time seeing the Northern Lights, hire a tour guide to take you out into the Arctic areas to experience them in a wilderness area.
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5. Kiruna, Sweden
Kiruna is the northernmost city in Sweden and is famous for being the perfect place to see the Aurora Borealis and the Midnight Sun. Kiruna is actually located 145 miles north of the Arctic Circle. One of the largest attractions in Kiruna besides the Northern Lights is the Ice Hotel. This area has been a favorite among Norther Lights watchers because of the many other things that they can enjoy inbetween viewings of the Lights.
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6. Tromso, Norway
Tromso is located even farther north than Kiruna. Located 217 miles north of the Arctic Circle, the city is a prime location for the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun. You can see the Aurora Borealis between 6 p.m. and midnight every night between September and March, with the best nights in December and January. Visitors must remember that the sun is not visible at all between November 21 and January 21 each year. This, of course, is also the best times to see the Northern Lights.
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7. Shetland Islands, UK
The Shetland Islands are a part of Scotland and are located about 110 miles north of mainland Scotland in the Polar Regions of the Atlantic Ocean. With mild weather in comparison to other areas located this far north, Shetland is a wonderful place to experience the Aurora Borealis. Because of the wide open spaces located throughout the many islands that make up Shetland, there are innumerable places to view the Lights with pleasure.
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8. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland
This area of Greenland is very desolate even though it holds the largest commercial airport in the country. The total population of Kangerlussuaq is only 512 people. Northern Light tours are offered between October and April. If you are very adventurous, Dog Sled tour packages to see the Northern Lights are offered between February and April each year. These are three day expeditions. With over 300 clear nights each year, you may also be able to see the Northern Lights from your hotel room window.
If you’re in the mood to do some international traveling, there are many exciting countries worth visiting. The world is always changing, and some destinations are especially appealing right now. According to Lonely Planet, the following are the ten best countries to visit in 2014.
10. Malaysia
Malaysia has one of the fastest growing economies in Southeast Asia. Aside from its many historic and natural attractions, the nation has recently opened some notable new sites. These include Legoland Malaysia and Melaka, a bird park that contains hundreds of species of birds. This is a great year to visit Malaysia, especially as you can now find reasonable fares by airlines such as AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines.
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9. Macedonia
This Balkan nation is not yet as popular as its neighbor Greece, but it’s rapidly establishing itself as an international destination of note. Macedonia has a wealth of history to explore, yet it’s also a very modern country as well, and currently has a thriving entertainment scene that features lots of restaurants, clubs, bistros and ski resorts.
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8. Belgium
Belgium is a European country that some tourists tend to overlook, but this is quickly changing. It features several amazing cities, such as Brussels, Bruges and Antwerp, the heart of the Flemish region. Famous for its chocolate and beer, Belgium is also expecting to receive lots of visitors as it prepares to celebrate a four year festival commemorating World War l.
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7. Seychelles
These beautiful islands, set off in a remote area of the Indian Ocean, are known for being a destination for the ultra wealthy. Fortunately, there are now some economical alternatives to the exclusive hotels and resorts of the Seychelles. You can find more affordable guest houses and B & B’s that allow you to enjoy the islands’ unique scenery and incomparable beaches at a reasonable price. This is the ideal beach hideaway for people who want to avoid the crowds.
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6. Mexico
Mexico has long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking warmth, beaches and an exotic culture that is right on the border of the U.S. This is a nation that has something to offer travelers of all tastes, whether one prefers lounging on the beach with a cocktail, visiting museums or exploring Mayan ruins. Adventure loving visitors will want to experience the new zipline overlooking Copper Canyon.
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5. Malawi
If you’ve ever dreamed of taking an African safari, Malawi is the place to do this in 2014. At places such as the Majete Wildlife Reserve, you can experience incredible animals up close without the constant buzz of four-wheel drives passing you by, as is the case in many other African national parks. Malawi is a country where you can enjoy the Big Five -elephants, buffalo, rhinos, leopards and lions- in a low key manner.
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4. Sweden
Sweden is one of the most fascinating destinations in Northern Europe right now. In addition to the distinctive Scandanavian landscape, you will find all kinds of cultural attractions in cities such as Stockholm and Umea, which was named the European Capital of Culture for 2014. Sweden’s cities are full of lively clubs, museums and cafes. You can also enjoy the nation’s distinctively fresh cuisine, which includes local cheeses, produce, game and seafood.
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3. Scotland
Scotland is always a memorable place to visit, but in 2014 it is especially exciting. Over the summer, you can catch the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow if you are in town. There are also a myriad of other events and festivals, including the Spirit of Speyside Whiskey Festival in the spring and the government sponsored Year of Homecoming festival. The nation has also recently upgraded its transportation system and opened some new sports venues to make it even more visitor friendly.
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2. Antarctica
The world’s coldest and least populated continent has a lot to offer adventurous travelers. While not necessarily a country – it is a destination travelers should consider for 2014. Antarctica is one of the few regions where you can appreciate the stark beauty of nature with hardly any distractions. There is the fascinating wildlife, such as leopard seals, killer whales, seabirds and, of course, penguins. You can also experience the grandeur of glaciers, giant icebergs and mountain ranges that have never been scaled. An Antarctic cruise is a travel experience unlike any other, and is worth putting on your bucket list for 2014.
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1. Brazil
There are many good reasons to visit Brazil in 2014, starting with the FIFA World Cup. Even if you’re not a sports fan, however, this growing country has a great deal to offer. It features some of the world’s most beautiful beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema, as well as an always exuberant nightlife. If you go early in the year you can also experience the world’s biggest Carnival celebration in Rio de Janeiro.
Looking for a unique vacation destination? If the idea of going to see the Eiffel Tower or Big Ben does not appeal to you, then maybe a trip to one of the 10 most unique tourist destinations might. There are many places to visit that are off the beaten path and offer exciting and exotic experiences.
1. Sichuan, China
Located in Sichuan, China is the Leshan Giant Buddha. Carved in to the mountainside, this Buddha measures 233 feet tall. The Giant Buddha was carved in the 8th Century and is one of the largest known Buddha images in the world. While in Sichuan, be sure to stay at the Panda Inn featuring the panda image everywhere including on the walls and the furniture. For added fun, the staff dresses as pandas.
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2. Las Pozas, Xilitla, Mexico
In Las Pozas, there is a surreal landscape of structures created by a wealthy English aristocrat. Edward James wanted to create a fantasyland and chose the jungles of Mexico for his masterpiece. On the 20 acres, he built buildings with names like “House With a Roof Like a Whale” and a staircase to nowhere. Las Pozas translates to the pools in English.
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3. Pancake Rocks, New Zealand
Located on New Zealand’s South Island, Pancake Rocks sits on the western edge of Paparoa National Park. Layers of limestone and sandstone gathered on the ocean floor. The sandstone was softer than the limestone, and it began to erode. As this process occurred, rock outcroppings that resembled stacks of pancakes began to form. Of course, this did not happen overnight; the process began 30 million years ago.
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4. Mont St. Michel, France
Mont St. Michel is a tidal island. When the tide comes in it is surrounded by water, when the tide recedes it is surrounded by land. The island is located off the coast of Normandy, France. On the island is a Gothic Abbey that housed prisoners during the French Revolution.
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5. Icehotel, Jukkasjarvi, Sweden
Not afraid of a little cold weather? Located approximately 124 miles above the Arctic Circle, sits the Icehotel, but only in the winter months. The hotel is made almost entirely from ice. Here guests sleep on beds made from ice. There is a church, main hall, and bar made from ice. The glasses in the bar are also carved from ice.
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6. Dean’s Blue Hole, Bahamas
Blue holes contain fresh water, seawater, or a mixture of both water types that extend below sea level. The name blue hole comes from bright blue color that can be seen from above the hole. Dean’s Blue Hole located on Bahamas’ Long Island is the deepest in the world. It has a depth of 600 feet.
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7. Cancun Underwater Museum, Cancun
In the ocean, just off the coast of Cancun sits the Cancun Underwater Museum. The museum features more than 400 life size sculptures. The underwater sculptures were made from materials to promote the growth of coral. On the sea floor, the sculpture of a man sits on his couch watching television, while schools of fish swim by. This is truly a unique experience.
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8. Alberobello, Italy
In 1996, the trulli of Alberobello became a UNESCO World Heritage site. This small town in Italy began in the 14th Century when the Count of Conversano colonized it. Here the homes are trulli. Trulli are dwellings made from limestone and appear cone shaped. When the homes were first built, they were made from interlocking rocks that lacked mortar. Since there was no mortar, they could be moved easily.
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9. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, Maldives
Ever wanted to dine with the fish? On the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, there is a Hilton Resort that offers lunch and dinner at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant. The restaurant is located 16 feet below sea level. The sides and roof are made of clear glass, allowing guests to be surrounded by sea life as they eat. Be sure to make reservation, because the restaurant only seats 12.
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10. Pamukkale Thermal Pools, Turkey
In some places, the Pamukkale Thermal Pools look like fields of cotton balls. The name translates to cotton castle. The thermal pools are filled with natural hot spring waters and cascade down inclines to various tiers. The thermal pools are more than a great way to relax or spend the day swimming. They are breathtakingly beautiful. Do not forget the camera!
