western europe (84)

5 of Greece´s Best Islands for History


Let´s face it, most people flock to the 227 inhabited islands of Hellas because of their thousands of gorgeous beaches. But many also offer history buffs plenty to admire, and there are a number which are also worth visiting for their historical marvels alone, dating back millennia. Here are the five most important ones:


31095165274?profile=RESIZE_710xMartin Falbisoner

Corfu: Showcasing a Plethora of Eras

The most important of the Ionian Islands on the western side of the country was one of its earliest vacation stars, and

Read more…

Fado, the Soulful Musical Heart of Portugal

31104539059?profile=RESIZE_710xPortugal Pathways

The soulful urban music of Portugal is often described as the country’s musical heart. The word itself comes from the Latin fatum, meaning “fate,” and the music is inseparable from the Portuguese emotional concept of saudade—a deep, almost nostalgic longing for something lost or unattainable. Since the 19th century, fado has been the sound of Lisbon’s old neighborhoods, echoing through taverns and candle-lit restaurants where singers pour intense feeling into spare, haunting mel

Read more…

Scotland is a land of dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, rich traditions, and unforgettable stories. Located in the northern part of the United Kingdom, Scotland offers a unique mix of rugged natural beauty and historic charm. From mist-covered mountains and peaceful lochs to lively cities and medieval streets, the country has a character that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive.

While many travellers know Scotland for its famous castles and scenic Highlands, the country also hide

Read more…

Far above the Arctic Circle lies one of the most magical regions in the world — Lapland. Spread across the northern parts of Finland, Sweden, and Norway, this Arctic region is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, snowy forests, unique wildlife, and incredible natural phenomena. Lapland offers a travel experience that feels almost dreamlike, especially during winter when the entire region transforms into a snowy wonderland.

For travellers who want to experience nature in its purest form, Lapla

Read more…

The Sweet Tour of Brussels

istock-1097777118.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710xagrobacter


If there's one city that can sweeten any trip, it's the capital of Belgium (and Europe). A feast of crispy waffles, irresistible chocolates, and other delicacies awaits you here, which will make your cravings grow just by thinking about it. Ready for a sweet journey indeed? Bring it on! 

First Stop: the Perfect Waffle

In Brussels, gaufres (or in Flemish, wafels, top) aren´t just a treat, they´re a veritable institution. There are two main types – the caramelised and denser Liège styl

Read more…

Greece is often described as the cradle of Western civilisation, a country where history is not confined to museums but woven into everyday life. From ancient temples and theatres to sacred sanctuaries and timeless ruins, Greece offers travellers a rare opportunity to walk through places that shaped philosophy, politics, art, and architecture as the world knows them today. Each historic site tells a story of human achievement, belief, and creativity that has endured for thousands of years.

One o

Read more…

Beautiful Bari, Italy

31083700057?profile=RESIZE_710xalxpin


Italy is famously packed with glorious cities to explore, which means a magical spot like Bari – which would be a headliner in many other countries – here tends to be overshadowed by the likes of Rome, FlorenceVenice, its fellow southern-Italian destination Naples, and even neighbouring Apulia (Puglia) region gem Lecce. But to miss out on Apulia’s capital  – astride the Adriatic Sea right on the heel of Italy’s famous boot shape – would be a shame for reasons I’m about to go into. And t

Read more…

Tucked away in the snowy landscapes of northern Scandinavia lies a place that feels straight out of a storybook—Santa Claus Village. Located in Rovaniemi, Finland, right on the Arctic Circle, this destination is far more than a festive attraction. It is a place where imagination comes alive, winter feels magical, and travelers of all ages rediscover a sense of wonder they didn’t know they were missing.

For many, Santa Claus Village begins as a childhood dream. But what surprises most visitors is

Read more…

istock-1483566653.jpg?profile=RESIZE_710x


The ever elegant City of Light of course needs no introduction, with its astonishing cultural, historical and architectural heritage, along with some of the world’s finest dining and shopping. And speaking of shopping, Paris as one of the world’s premier fashion capitals not only offers a wealth of couture from classic to cutting-edge, but lovers of fashion can also scratch their sartorial itch at four fantastic institutions devoted to the subject:

Musée Yves Saint Laurent

Inaugurated in October

Read more…

31036896674?profile=RESIZE_710xAzul


Nestled in the heart of the largest and most populous of the Canary Islands, Teide isn´t just Spain´s highest peak (3,718 meters/12,198 feet)) but also a gateway to one of the most awe-inspiring astronomical experiences in the world. With its clear skies and minimal light pollution, the night time transforms the mountain into a perfect canvas for stargazing. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, a tour operator called Mount Teide Night offers invaluable information on

Read more…

8 Festive Christmas Markets of Berlin

31039471472?profile=RESIZE_710xRoman Babakin

Deutschland is famously a veritable hotbed of that beloved European tradition of Christmas markets, and its capital is practically ground zero, with perhaps the most Christkindlmärkte of any German city, large and small scattered throughout various neighbourhoods from late November through December and sometimes into the first week of January - most free, one or two with a nominal entry fee. Sadly, this year markets have been suspended due to the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, but

Read more…

Western Europe´s 8 Major Cuisines at a Glance

31016840674?profile=RESIZE_710xRouzes

Europe is famously a paradise for foodies, offering diverse cuisines that reflect its rich culture and history. From hearty meals in Italy to delicate pastries in France, there’s something to delight every palate. If you’re booking a Europe travel from India, a Europe family trip package, or exploring Europe packages from India, these must-try cuisines will elevate your journey.

Italian: A Symphony of Flavors

Italy is the home of comfort food, with dishes that have captured hearts worldwi

Read more…

9 of Europe´s Best Luxury Resorts

31002641279?profile=RESIZE_710xAman Resorts


Europe is home to some of the most luxurious and picturesque resorts in the world, offering everything from pristine beaches and mountain escapes to cultural experiences and world-class amenities. From the sun-kissed beaches of Greece to the snow-capped peaks of Switzerland, the continent offers a wide variety of landscapes and experiences. Whether you’re looking for a summer escape or a winter adventure, you’ll find resorts that cater to all seasons and preferences, with luxury se

Read more…

13758621297?profile=RESIZE_710xJosé Balido

 

In 2021, UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation) honoured Spain´s capital with its first World Heritage Site designation, elevating Madrid to the ranks of destinations with districts or monuments worth preserving for future generations (the larger Madrid community surrounding the capital already had UNESCO sites, including the royal sites of El Escorial and Aranjuez, which make marvelous day trips).

The city´s leafy Paseo del Prado boulevard,

Read more…
3494176742?profile=RESIZE_930xPhotos: David Paul Appell unless otherwise noted


I've always had a fascinating for things mediaeval. Would never want to have actually lived back in the Middle Ages, mind you. But the architecture and atmosphere of the Romanesque and the Gothic have always captivated me. And while my adopted country provides more than enough to delight me on this front year after year, I've been enjoying my home town Madrid more for its marvelous architecture and monuments dating from the mid-16th century onward

Read more…