Tag: Explore

Northern Lights & Cheap Flights: Why Fall Is The Best Time To Explore Iceland
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Northern lights and cheap flights – if that’s not enticing enough to book a trip, then I don’t know what is!

Lots can be said about my favorite country, some good, some bad – if there’s one thing for certain, fall is the best time to explore Iceland.

What once seemed like an unattainable far-flung destination with a fascinating way of life and astounding other-planetary landscapes is now one of the world’s trendiest destinations.

Summer draws a crowd to many of Iceland’s top sites, such as the plethora of majestic waterfalls, shooting geysers, and the volcanic black sand beaches of Vik.

Now that calendars have flipped to September, crowds are beginning to dwindle, but best of all, this month marks the start of the Northern Lights season with some incredibly priced airfare to reach Europe’s most jaw-dropping country on a budget.

An Ethereal Autumn In Iceland

They say ‘don’t go chasing waterfalls’ but nobody is stopping you from chasing impeccably beautiful fall foliage across the pond.

Truth be told, Iceland is borderline whimsical in some aspects.

Its culture is steeped in bizarre elf folklore, unpronounceable streets, and quirky architecture that will leave you befuddled.

What is often overlooked are the scenic fall colors lining the streets of Reykjavik, many of its wondrous terrains, and the up-and-coming northern city of Akureyri, which you should definitely visit this time of year.

While most travelers keep their passports at home to leaf-peep, you will be quite impressed checking out the already stunning natural sites without the vibrant backdrop of foliage.

The rush of fall colors adds tenfold the allure.

Of course, Iceland is a rare European nation where trains go by the wayside in favor of road trips.

Home to the popular Ring Road, this is the ultimate fall adventure where you’ll find open roads, less crowds, and more elbow room at the famous Blue Lagoon.

Watch The Skies Dance Green

September marks a season to remember, but don’t feel like you have to visit at the drop of a hat; the Northern Lights can be witnessed in Iceland through April.

That being said, many circle September as the month to visit since this also marks the end of the stingy ‘midnight sun’.

Just as it sounds, if you’re unfamiliar, Iceland experiences extended daylight through the summer months, so locals and tourists alike are stoked to get some shuteye!

If there was ever an excuse to stay up late, it’s to bear witness to nature’s concert of colors known as Aurora Borealis, a natural reaction caused by the sun’s charged particles and Earth’s atmosphere.

But enough with the science lesson, the point is it’s truly an awesome phenomenon to experience.

I’ve done it right here in Iceland.

Thinking I missed out on the chance about to head to the airport, the universe heard my prayers and the skies lit green in Keflavik near the airport.

Even my driver was surprised as I was told there’s often too much light pollution to see it here. There are far better places with a higher odds to view the Northern Lights.

According to Iceland Tours, there are the top 5 best bets to watch the Northern Light put on a show: (good luck pronouncing them!)
1. Vatnajökull National Park
2. Seltjarnarnes (Reykjavik)
3. Snæfellsnes
4. Þingvellir National Park
5. Westfjords
Iceland’s Flagship Low-Cost Airline: PLAY

Formerly WOW Air, after a wild timeline of mishaps, this Icelandic airline has rebranded under new ownership as PLAY.

This low-cost carrier offers a variety of nonstop flights to/from the U.S. on the cheap. Such notable airports include Baltimore (BWI), Washington DC (IAD), and Boston (BOS).

As for New York (SWF), make sure you go to the right place as it’s an alternative airport in Stewart, NY – not JFK or LaGuardia.

PLAY offers sales throughout the year with some truly jaw-dropping fares. For example, Bostonites can fly directly to Keflavik (KEF) as low as $139 this fall.

While Iceland may be an expensive country on arrival, that’s a problem to solve once you get here!

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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September 11, 2024
5 Reasons Why Right Now Is The Perfect Time To Explore This Cultural Trendy Destination

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The world may be full of epic travel destinations, but one Asian country in particular seems to be stealing the spotlight this year.

Multiple recent reports examining travel trends reveal Japan to be one of the most coveted destinations of 2024.

It’s easy to understand why Japan has captured the interest of so many travelers; this trendy country is abundant with rich cultural sites and traditions, breathtaking natural beauty, and delicious foods.

And while each time of year brings its own unique offerings, spring brings Japan to life with contagious energy and pastel colors you won’t find in other seasons.

It is Sakura (Cherry Blossoms) Season

Sakura season transforms this trendy country into a landscape of pastel pinks that will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

The ideal dates to see the cherry blossoms at their best will vary depending on what part of the country you are in.

In general, the blooms first peak in the south, and then the color moves north; early to mid-April is the ideal time to catch the sakuras at their best.

The Japanese Meteorological Society recently forecasted the following iconic destinations would be in full bloom by the following dates–Osaka: 4/2, Tokyo: 3/30, Kyoto 4/1.

If you want to be extra prepared, you can download the Sakura Navi app here for up-to-date forecasts and the most relevant information on bloom times and best viewing spots near you.

Some of the best places to view blooms are Mount Yoshino in Nara, Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto, Shinjuku Gyoen, Tokyo, Himeji Castle in Hyogo, and Hirosaki Castle Park, Aomori.

Ideal Weather

Japan experiences the traditional four seasons, with its rainy season falling in June and July.

If you want pleasant weather and to visit when the landscapes are colorful and lush, spring is the perfect time.

Whether you are climbing this country’s mountains, wandering Tokyo’s streets, or exploring Kyoto’s temples, you’ll be much more comfortable visiting in spring when the days are still mild.

Japan’s summers are notoriously hot and humid, bringing unpredictable rains and temperatures as high as the upper 90’s in Tokyo.

In contrast, daily temperatures in spring fall in the comfortable 50-70 degree range, and skies are clear with plenty of sun.

Festival Season

Visiting a country during a national holiday or local festival is an experience like no other.

Celebrating amongst the locals on crowded streets, feeling the pulsing energy and excitement, and witnessing colorful, culturally rich traditions come alive can be one of the most fulfilling travel experiences.

As winter thaws and the sunshine returns, the country comes alive with a variety of matsuri or festivals.

You’ll find Cherry Blossom festivals all over the country celebrating the sacred flower throughout its bloom season in April.

One of the most beautiful of the matsuri is the Takayama Festival, which takes place in the Gifu prefecture from April 14th-15th.

The elaborately designed wooden floats and skilled mechanical doll performances are among the highlights of this colorful celebration.

Flights

While the cheapest time to fly to Japan is during its off-seasons, summer or winter, you can still find some good deals for spring if you book sooner rather than later.

We found non-stop flights from Los Angeles to Tokyo right in time for peak cherry blooms that cost around $1600 for a 2-week trip at the beginning of April.

For our Midwest based readers, a non-stop round trip ticket from Chicago to Tokyo for a 10 day trip departing March 30th would cost around $1800.

If you’re up for a 2 hour layover on both flights, we found a roundtrip 10 day trip from New York City to Tokyo for just $1495 also departing on March 30.

Seasonal Cuisine

While there’s no wrong time of year for sampling Japanese cuisine, different times of the year bring a different availability of ingredients.

Japanese cuisine and the availability of certain dishes change to align with the seasons, as the country’s Buddhist roots bring an appreciation for seasonality and alignment with nature.

The Sakura blossoms and leaves aren’t only beautiful, but they are also edible!

The arrival of spring will bring a host of unique sakura-themed treats and drinks like sakura mochi.

The spring months are the ideal time to visit if you want to sample springtime dishes featuring seasonally fresh seafood, and Takenoko, or bamboo shoots.

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March 26, 2024
5 Reasons Why You Should Explore This Lesser Known Caribbean Destination

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Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Curacao is having a moment right now.

It is soaring in popularity with global travelers but is still relatively underappreciated by American travelers.

Curacao is a fascinating melting pot of cultures, boasts some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches, and has its own unique charm that makes it stand out from the crowd.

Here are 5 reasons why you should explore this lesser-known Caribbean destination:

An Authentic Caribbean Experience

In 2023, Curacao welcomed record numbers of travelers with over 1.7 million arrivals in the country. That’s 17% more than 2023 and 18% more than the pre-pandemic high of 2019.

However unlike many other Caribbean destinations that are dominated by American tourists only 20% of the visitors to Curacao last year were from the USA.

As a result Curacao has a much less touristy feel than many of its Caribbean island neighbors and retains its authenticity.

Like many other Caribbean islands Curacao has an incredible nightlife scene. You can enjoy live music, dancing in beach clubs, and street parties with the locals. It’s a classic Caribbean experience but with a personality all of its own.

A Rich Cultural Heritage

Willemstad is the capital of Curacao and downtown Willemstad is famous for its beautiful candy-colored Dutch colonial buildings.

The whole of this downtown area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and is an incredible spot for history buffs.

Curaçao played a significant role in the Caribbean slave trade and there is a fascinating museum dedicated to this dark history in downtown Willemstad. The Museum Kura Hulanda is a must-visit attraction on the island.

Other not-to-be-missed cultural attractions in Curacao include the colorful street murals in the Otrobanda and Pietermaai neighborhoods and the Gallery Alma Blou, which boasts an incredible collection of art by local artists.

Beautiful Beaches

Curacao is a small island but it’s big on beaches! There are 35 of them to be exact and if you’re a beach lover then they are well worth visiting the island for.

Playa Knip is the most famous beach on the island, while the lesser-known spot of Playa Lagun regularly appears on the world’s best beach lists.

The southeast side of Curacao is the most touristed, and it is here that you will find the island’s all-inclusive resorts.

But for the best beaches, you should hit the road and head to the west side of the island. This is more rugged and remote but it is also breathtakingly beautiful.

Curacao is popular with divers, too, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and a wide array of incredible marine life.

Easy To Reach

Curacao is incredibly accessible for American travelers. JetBlue offers a daily nonstop service to the island from New York JFK.

American Airlines is also offering a nonstop daily service from Charlotte this winter, and Delta is flying nonstop from Atlanta with the same frequency.

According to the Curacao Chronicle, the strongest feeder cities for tourists from the U.S. to the island destination are for passengers from Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Philadelphia, New York JFK, Washington-National, Atlanta, Boston, and Orlando.

Because it’s so easy and convenient to reach Curacao by nonstop airline, it is possible to visit the island for a long weekend if you’re short on time, though you will need much longer to explore everything this incredible destination has to offer.

Safe And Secure

Curacao’s strong political and economic stability makes it one of the safest islands in the Caribbean.

This means that it is a great spot for female travelers and solo travelers to explore without fear.

Most crime rates in Curacao are very low, and aside from taking the usual safety precautions there are big concerns for travelers and tourists to worry about on the island.

The U.S. Department of State has given Curacao a level 1 travel advisory rating which is the lowest and safest rating that can be awarded. A Level 1 travel advisory means that travelers should exercise normal precautions, while a Level 2 advisory means U.S. citizens should not travel to a destination.

By contrast, Jamaica, which is a much more popular destination with American travelers, has a Level 3: Reconsider Travel rating. U.S. travelers are advised to reconsider travel to Jamaica due to crime levels in the island nation.

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February 23, 2024
6 Reasons Why You Should Explore This European Country By Rail This Fall

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There’s never been a better time to travel in Europe by train.

But one European country has focused so heavily on investing in train travel that it’s now officially the easiest way to navigate the country.

Passenger numbers on Spanish railways have increased by 76%, and 4 out of 5 passengers prefer the train to flying on certain routes.

Here are 6 reasons why you should explore Spain by train this fall:

New High-Speed Rail Routes

Train travel in Spain is just as popular with tourists as it is with local residents.

Now high-speed operators have taken note of this popularity and launched new routes in the coastal regions that are most popular with overseas visitors.

The busiest route remains the line between Barcelona and Madrid. But the newly opened Granada-Antequera line means that passengers can easily reach the popular tourist region of Andalusia at speed too.

And a new route from Madrid to Murcia has attracted a huge number of tourists since it was launched at the end of last year.

Whether you want to spend the fall months soaking up the sun in Cordoba, which is known as Spain’s frying pan, or enjoying the cultural attractions in Valencia, Spain boasts high-speed routes to get you there easily.

Affordable Prices

Where there is competition, there are often price drops, and that is certainly true on the rail network in Spain.

Renfe is the primary operator of trains in Spain. They run the high-speed AVE service in the country. But private operators like Ouigo and Iryo are rapidly increasing the number of routes they operate too.

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This means that rail prices in the country are becoming more competitive, and ticket prices on many routes are lower than ever before.

On the route from Madrid to Barcelona, 78% of passengers said they preferred to travel by train instead of plane thanks to the convenience and the low-cost options available.

Fast And Effective

The Spanish authorities have invested heavily in train travel, and many experts believe Spain now has the best rail system in the world. It is the European country with the largest high-speed rail network.

You can easily travel to and from just about any town and city in Spain by train, and you can do it much faster and more efficiently than you could if you chose to fly.

The 306-mile train journey from Madrid to Barcelona can be completed in just 2 hrs and 30 minutes.

Train stations tend to be in town and city centers where airports are out of town. This means you don’t have the expense of taking a taxi or other form of transport to your final destination.

There is also no waiting around when you take a train. You won’t have to go through security or check in 2 hours before your train leaves. Another big time-saving benefit.

In most cases, this means that if you take the train you will reach your final destination faster than if you chose to fly in real terms, even if the actual time you spend on the plane vs the train is shorter.

More Space

Not only are train seats wider than plane seats meaning that you’ll have more room for your journey train passengers are also given more space for their luggage.

There are no restrictions on the size or shape of the luggage you can bring with you on a train.

While low-cost European airlines will charge you extra if you want to bring a suitcase on your flight the same is not true of the Spanish rail network.

This results in a more stress-free and more comfortable journey for most passengers.

Stunning Scenery

When you travel by train you see so much more than when you travel by plane.

Because the Spanish rail network covers over 2,000 miles you can cover plenty of ground without ever leaving your comfortable train seat. And the views are incredible.

Some of the best tourist train routes include the Transcantábrico which travels through the northern part of the country known as ‘Green Spain’. During fall the green turns beautiful shades of orange and yellow.

The tourist trains of Galicia are also well worth exploring, particularly the wine train which is popular during the fall wine harvest season.

You’ll Be In Good Company!

If you’re traveling alone, then traveling by train is a great way to meet new people.

Train travel is considered much more social than plane travel.

Rail travel in Spain has grown massively in popularity with all foreign travelers in the country but particularly with travelers from the U.S.

There has been an 18% increase in the number of Americans traveling by train in Spain this year, making them the foreign nationals using the train the most.

This was followed by British, French, and Italian tourists.

So if you want to meet other Americans as you travel from place to place in Spain this fall? You’re better off on the train!

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August 20, 2023
Why It Just Got Cheaper To Explore This Popular European Country

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There’s nothing quite like exploring a new country and discovering its hidden gems for yourself.

One of the best ways to do that, especially in Europe, is by rail. It’s usually quick, comfortable, more environmentally friendly than flying, and affordable.

And it just got even cheaper in one of Europe’s most popular countries for American travelers and digital nomads – Portugal.

The Iberian country has just launched a new unlimited monthly rail pass that costs just €49, which works out to about $53 at the time of writing.

Introduced by the national rail company Comboios de Portugal, the National Train Pass covers all journeys on regional trains throughout the country except for inter-regional and urban trains.

The tickets can be purchased from any Comboios de Portugal ticket office, and you will need photo identification to buy one.

Where Can You Explore?

The regional train network in Portugal will allow you to see a lot of the country with this rail pass.

It connects major cities such as the capital Lisbon and Porto in the north, as well as many locations along the rugged and beautiful west coast such as São Martinho do Porto and Aveiro.

There is also a regional train line along the south coast Algarve region taking in popular destinations such as Lagos and Faro.

The Algarve regional line can only be accessed by rail on the Intercidades line from Lisbon, which you will need a different ticket for in addition to the National Train Pass.

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You can, however, reach the far north of Portugal on the regional network, making this ticket a great value-for-money method of seeing the best of this sun-drenched nation.

The full regional map is available on the Comboios de Portugal website.

Why Portugal Is Amazing, Especially In The Fall

Vibrant port cities full of history and culture, stunning sunny beaches, and impressive rugged and rocky cliffs – Portugal has a lot to offer the curious traveler.

In the capital city Lisbon, you will find imposing castles and towers such as Castelo de São Jorge and Torre de Belém, as well as the impressive viewing point Elevador de Santa Justa.

The streets here are alive with the hustle and bustle and the odors of delicious coffees and Portuguese custard tarts known as pastel de natas.

It’s an intoxicating city that also has a very lively nightlife, particularly in the Bairro Alto district.

To the north, the city of Porto has a more artsy vibe with street art, sculptures, and museums the order of the day. It’s also the birthplace of fortified wine Port, which is one of the nation’s most famous exports.

Down in the south you will find the Algarve, one of Europe’s favorite holiday destinations.

A long coastline of beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts, the Algarve is one of the best places to visit in fall, thanks to fewer tourists being around and the warm and pleasant temperatures that linger on long into November.

Ocean temperatures around the country remain relatively warm during Fall, particularly in this southern region.

There are also plenty of festivals and events still happening around the country during the Fall, including the Feria de São Mateus in the hilltop town of Viseu in September and the two-week-long National Horse Fair in Golega in November.

A Haven For Digital Nomads

Not only does Portugal have a solid digital nomad visa program with four separate types that can be applied for, it is also regarded as one of the best countries in the world for remote workers.

The country is known for being a cheap place to visit and live, with hotels and Airbnb rentals offering good value.

To attain the Portuguese digital nomad visa, you must earn a minimum income of €3,040 per month (about $3,300).

You can apply for one of four visas depending on how long you intend to stay in the country, but the Short-Term Work Visa is the quickest and easiest for those who only wish to stay in the country temporarily.

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August 15, 2023
4 Off-The-Beaten-Path Destinations To Explore In Turkey

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Thanks to its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and friendly faces, Turkey has certainly increased in popularity over the past year or so. People from all over the world want a chance to experience a little Turkish coffee and the country’s vast cultural significance.

Turkey’s ‘Riviera’ has now become a well-known spot for holidaymakers looking for inexpensive beach towns that are just as picturesque as other popular places around Europe.

Turkey is certainly a budget-friendly destination, but prices may start to increase with tourism demand.

With such an explosion of tourism, Istanbul is now the airport in Europe seeing the most foot traffic, with an average of 1,486 flights per day in July.

According to the Daily Sabah, “Antalya Airport serving the Mediterranean resort city saw 1,018 flights per day on average from July 10 through July 16.”

With the masses flooding into the country, it appears even the once lesser-known destinations have certainly become known to most tourists now. While Turkey is getting busier and busier each year, there are still a few hidden gems waiting to be discovered in the country.

Want to explore more lesser-known areas this year? Try these four stunning spots in Turkey instead for untouched beauty, local lifestyle, and a little relaxation.

Kemer

On Turkey’s Southern Mediterranean Coast, Kemer is a resort town known for its lush pine forests and impressive marina. In a bay of crystal-clear waters, this spot is still pretty under-the-radar with beautiful sandy beaches and plenty to see and do.

Aside from beach hopping, explore the gorgeous secluded area of Phaselis. You’ll be in awe as you admire the Ancient Ruins with the mountains as a backdrop.

There’s also a 2,365-meter cable car if you want to appreciate the town from above the clouds.

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Pamukkale

More well-known but still less so than other places in Turkey, Pamukkale is a town in Western Turkey with beautiful thermal waters flowing calmly down a hillside of white terraces.

As the result of an earthquake, this is certainly an impressive site to witness.

Yes, the waters are a must-do; however, Pamukkale also has an ancient theater and a necropolis for history-buffs to admire. Around 3-4 hours from Izmir, it’s doable if you’re renting a car or want to spend a few days near the area.

Amasra

An enclosed seaport town, Amasra is appreciated for its calming vibes and natural beauty. A bay village lined with multi-colored homes, this spot is definitely for those looking for some stillness in their travels.

Amasra is one of those fairytale towns you have to see to believe. Sat on a cliff-side, the impressive variety of quaint houses are jaw-dropping. The closest small airport here is Zonguldak.

Streets are filled with quirky trinkets that add a little personality to this already beautiful area. With a 9th-century bridge linking the mainland to a tiny island: it’d be a crime not to see it!

Indulge in the easy way of living here at one of the local restaurants or digging your toes in the sand at any of the beaches.

Alacati

A watersports haven, Alacati sits on Turkey’s Çeşme Peninsula (and is even close to a waterpark: ideal in the summer months).

If you’re not looking to dabble in the water, Çeşme Castle is located to the Northwest. If you’re on the hunt for stunning windmills- this is your place.

An eclectic array of stone houses, colorful storefronts, and cobblestone streets make the center an ideal area for wandering aimlessly.

This part of Turkey is best known for its wine-making traditions: so wine lovers, you’re in for a treat.

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August 2, 2023
This Tiny Underrated European Country Is One Of The Easiest To Explore
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Europe is back to being everyone’s go-to destination for both sun and culture now that all health-related border curbs have been lifted. From France’s Eiffel Tower to Italy’s world-renowned Romanesque monuments, the continent is once again awash with tourists.

Though the Old World is at the front of the world’s tourism revival, a majority of vacationers continue to willingly limit their movements to only a handful of nations, namely Europe’s most famous and over-touristed spots.

Little do they know there is a lesser-known, underrated European country with fewer tourists that will not only quench their thirst for culture, but prove incredibly easy to explore.

One Of Europe’s Smallest But Prettiest Nations

At only 998 square miles, Luxembourg is a small sovereign state and Grand Duchy entirely surrounded by the much larger France, Belgium, and Germany.

Often bypassed by tourists on their way from the French capital to Belgium, or Belgium to Western Germany, the tiny ‘Lux’, as it is commonly called, is one of Europe’s most important countries, being home to a number of European and international institutions.

A Quaint Capital City

Its capital, Luxembourg City, is one of the three capitals of the European Union (EU) alongside Brussels, in Belgium, and Strasbourg in France, housing the European Parliament, though its modern geopolitical relevance is easily overshadowed by its historic appeal.

Luxembourg City sits at the heart of Western Europe, and it is a gorgeous small capital spanning the confluence of the Alzette and Petrusse rivers, with a pastel-colored Old Town known as ‘Grund’, traversed by the former.

It is one of the smallest EU capitals, with a population of just over 130,000 inhabitants, and it feels more like a pacate town than a cosmopolitan, influential global capital, though it is very much one at heart, as Luxembourgers comprise only 30% of the capital’s workforce.

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Dominated by Luxembourg Castle, an imposing fortress perched on a clifftop lining the Grund, it is a quintessential European city that has yet to turn its back on its medieval origins and tradition in spite of the ongoing globalization.

Much like the wider Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the ‘City’ is incredibly easy to explore, being perhaps Europe’s greenest and most walkable capital, though you should beware of its hilly nature.

You can see pretty much the whole city in a day, as commuting between any of the main landmarks, such as walking downhill from the Luxembourgish Parliament to the Grund, or the Notre-Dame Cathedral to the ruined Luxembourg Castle, will usually only take 15 minutes tops.

A compact, small capital city is not the only reason why Luxembourg is easy to visit.

Free Public Transportation Across The Entire Country

Yes. Even If You’re a Tourist.

The whole country – and we do mean all of it – enjoys free public transportation. This means you can travel anywhere within the Grand Duchy without paying for a seat in trains, buses, or other means of transport.

There is no catch here.

You can truly simply hop on a train, take an unreserved seat, and travel all around the country without spending a penny. This applies to both locals and tourists alike, and other than spot identification checks, you should expect free, seamless travel within the country’s national boundaries.

The whole country is well-connected by rail and bus connections, and traveling from the far South to the extreme North, near the borders with Belgium or Germany, will take on average an hour and a half, while going from West, near France, to East, near Germany, takes about an hour.

It is simply the perfect long-weekend destination as lots of attractions in different locations can be crammed into a single day due to the relatively short travel distances, and you’re awarded with unlimited travel to discover the country at leisure, at your own pace, without thinking too hard about pre-defined itineraries.

Step Into A Fairytale

Luxembourg is mostly rural, dotted with lush forests, sweeping natural panoramas, and smaller towns and villages best known for their quaint atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for slow-paced travelers looking to escape Paris’, or Milan’s hustle and bustle this summer.

Some of the best day trips from Luxembourg City include:
- Vianden, a medieval town in North-Eastern Luxembourg famous for its landmark castle, arguably one of the prettiest in Europe;
- Esch-sur-Alzette, a European Capital of Culture;
- Echternach, popular for its lake, Roman-era villas, and towering basilica;
- Mullerthal, a nature reserve full of hiking and camping spots, nature trails, and stunning waterfalls
- Larochette, a small medieval village easily distinguished for its cobbled alleys and ruined castle
- Schengen, a wine-making town near the tri-border shared by Luxembourg, France, and Germany*
*Europe’s Schengen Area is named after Luxembourg’s Schengen

Fewer Tourists

The fact that Luxembourg hosts fewer tourists than its neighbors also makes it easier to explore, as you’ll hardly be battling for a place in the crowd when attempting to watch a summer event or waste several precious hours trying for the perfect picture amid a swarm of visitors.

Last year, the capital’s tourist office counted only 102,960 visitors, nearing pre-pandemic levels but still far below Western Europe’s average. A majority of visitors hail from Germany (26%), followed by the French, and the Dutch – Americans are nowhere to be found in the top five.

Getting To Luxembourg Is Easy

Though there are no nonstop flights connecting the U.S. or Canada and Luxembourg, it is incredibly accessible as it is situated close to the exact ‘center’ of Europe, bordered by four larger countries.

You can travel to Luxembourg by train from Paris in France, Brussels in Belgium, numerous stations in Germany, most notably Frankfurt, or of course, fly to Luxembourg City from all over the continent, as well as select Middle Eastern and African hubs.

Americans can stay in Luxembourg visa-free – and the wider Schengen Area, which comprises 27 European countries – for 90 days out of any 180-day period.

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July 31, 2023
6 Reasons Why You Should Explore This European Country By Train This Summer

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This summer is going to be a huge year for travel in Europe and for train travel as well.

With an increased focus on shifting towards rail travel, some countries are offering enticing incentives for tourists to come and visit and explore their county by rail.

With popular destinations such as Spain and Germany offering train passes at a great deal, it’s not surprising to see more European countries follow suit. Enter the Czech Republic CZ train pass, offering tourists the chance to explore this beautiful country on one single ticket.

First things first, after going by both The Czech Republic and Czechia interchangeably since 2016, the county now wants to be referred to as Czechia in most situations. While The Czech Republic is still to be used in terms of government business, Czechia should be used in all other capacities.

So, read on to find out why you should explore the beautiful Central European country of Czechia by train this summer:

Here Are 6 Reasons Why You Should Explore The Czech Republic By Train This Summer:

1. Train Pass

Czechia is no stranger to tourists, and the summer months are peak season. You are most likely to run into crowds in the more popular places, such as the super popular capital city of Prague, which sees around 8 million visitors a year.

That being said, this year is a great time to get out into the beautiful Czech countryside and explore with their new rail pass, offering a great deal on some fantastic journeys.

Ok, now for the fine print, the pass will be available for purchase after June 15th and is valid for travel between July 1st and August 31st. A seven-day pass will cost around 60 Euros, and for fourteen days of train travel, it will only set you back around 85 euros. This great deal allows pass holders nearly unlimited travel on CD trains within the specified term period.

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2. New Panoramic Trains

If you are one of those who plan to take advantage of this new discounted train pass, make sure to include the county’s new panoramic train as part of your journey.

Czech Railways has purchased this train from Swiss Federal Railways, and the wide windows surrounding the cars help you to see all the stunning nature you can take in along the Czech countryside, making the journey as fun as the destination.

3. Discounted Tickets

In addition to the train pass, the Czech authorities have designated many discounts for music festivals and other special offers in an attempt to draw in as many tourists as possible this summer. Czech Railways customers will have special access to attractions and historic landmarks, with discounts available.

While it’s not likely to be included in discount prices, remember that visitors in June can enjoy Prague’s take on Edinburgh’s famous Fringe Festival, where the capital hosts dance, comedy, and theatre performances all over the city.

4. 300th anniversary of Jan Blažej

This year makes 300 years since the death of Czechia’s most famous architect, Jan Blažej. In honor of this anniversary, the country will open up many private chateaus to visitors, especially interesting since these properties have long been privately owned by their original aristocratic families.

In addition to this opportunity to peek into some stunning private residences, there will be state-owned sites and other popular cultural and architectural sites to visit as well.

5. Safety and Peace Of Mind

Czechia continuously ranks high on lists of the safest countries in Europe, with Prague also getting a mention in many of the safest cities reports.

If the country’s biggest city ranks highly in regards to safety with solo female travelers, then the rest of the country also can be considered to be safe as well. Of course, on a visit to Czechia, one should follow normal safety precautions as they would anywhere.

With the capital city of Prague having just been rated a great place for a digital detox, the city’s low traffic will help you keep your peace of mind and keep stress low while visiting.

6. Cost

It’s been called the cheapest country to visit in Central Europe, and with neighbors such as Austria and Germany, you can see why. Despite its stunted economic history as a Soviet country, Czechia is thriving now and can still be considered a budget European destination.

Even the beloved Prague, one of the world’s most visited cities, can be considered a cheaper option than its other European counterparts. Despite rising costs, Czechia is still known to be one of the more affordable European countries to explore in the park summer months.

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June 14, 2023
4 New Exciting Sleeper Trains You Can Explore Europe With This Summer
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Sleeper sleeper trains are making a decisive comeback in Europe. Whether for nostalgia, affordability, or low carbon footprint, more travelers than ever are turning away from regional flights and coming back to overnight trains.

Nicolas Forien, a train advocate with ‘Back on Track’ and ‘Oui au Train de Nuit,’ recently commented on the cultural shift to overnight rail travel in Europe.

“Public opinion is changing compared to a few years ago, when night trains were considered old-fashioned and nostalgic, something from the past,” explained Mr. Forien. “Now it’s considered a serious alternative to flying which should be redeveloped.”

While budget flights may appear cheaper than overnight rail, sleeper trains actually save travelers in transport and accommodation costs.

The sleeper berth eliminates the need for a hotel, while the central locations of European train stations save the time and cost of getting between far-flung airports and city centers. Costs and time often even out or fall in favor of sleeper trains.

Rail travel also has the environment on its side.

This low-carbon travel option emits six times less greenhouse gas than hopping on a flight, helping travelers feel good about their responsible holiday. With more people than ever before considering the climate before they book travel, sleeper trains today have a leg up on the competition.

Here are four new exciting sleeper trains you can explore Europe with this summer:

1. Germany to Croatia with NightJet

This new service from the well-known Austrian carrier NightJet departs from Stuttgart, Germany and arrives in Zagreb, Croatia the following morning. Sleeper tickets start at €97.

Service includes stops in:
- Vienna, Austria
- Budapest, Hungary
- Venice, Italy
- Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Zagreb, Croatia
Traveler reviews suggest that NightJet’s 4-berth compartments or sleeping cars are the way to go. Couchettes in the 6-berth sleepers are not so well liked, featuring top bunks so high they require a literal safety net.

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2. Brussels to Berlin on European Sleepers’ Good Night Train

Starting tomorrow, May 25, European Sleepers’ brand new Good Night Train will connect travelers from Brussels to Berlin with a convenient stop in Amsterdam.

The Dutch cooperative European Sleepers have continued successfully sharefunding to expand the European overnight train network, with other new routes coming soon in Scandinavia and southern Europe.

Prices start at €129 for a couchette. Women-only compartments are a handy feature bound to be popular with solo female travelers. Deluxe sleepers appear sold out for the summer, but might be bookable through travel agencies.

3. Prague to Zurich with Canopus

Czech Railways (ČD) recently revived an old 2017 overnight route, the Canopus, from Prague to Zurich.

Tickets start at €75 for places in the refurbished sleeper carriages, featuring improved wifi and upgraded fire protection. This route will also stop in Dresden, Leipzig, and Frankfurt.

It’s no surprise that the Czech Republic is helping to lead the charge to bring back overnight trains. This country once built the first railway in all of continental Europe between České Budějovice and Linz in the 1820s. Their strong history of train infrastructure expansion continues with today’s renewed commitment to train travel.

4. Vienna to Verona with NightJet

NightJet’s second new debut this year is sure to be one of the most popular sleeper trains in Europe in no time.

This route departs from Vienna or Munich with stops in Venice, Milan, Verona, Genoa, and La Spezia (a great connection point to Cinque Terre).

Travelers may be willing to splash out on this more expensive option – starting at €120 for a couchette – in exchange for the opportunity to have dinner by the Danube and wake up with an Italian espresso on the Ligurian sea.

Wherever your European explorations may take you, there’s bound to be a sleeper train to get you there. We hope these exciting new overnight rail lines continue to expand in scope and convenience for all types of travelers to enjoy.

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May 26, 2023