This unique country lost halfway on the route from Norway to Iceland has a rather strange name; the English translation is “Sheep Islands”. Life here is unique and amazing in itself, and quite different from everyday life in other European countries.

Here are the answers to 10 of the most frequently asked travel questions if you plan a visit to the Faroe Islands.

Where are the Faroe islands located?

The Faroe Islands are an archipelago of 18 rugged volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean.
The Faroe Islands are an independent province of the Kingdom of Denmark, means, belong to Denmark, but all state affairs handled separately. They have their own legislative bodies. Unlike mainland Denmark, the Faroe Islands are not a member of the EU. However, Copenhagen already has control over defense, justice, police and foreign policy.

The official language of the Faroe Islands is Faroese, but everyone speaks excellent English. So you should be able to communicate with the majority of locals in English.

What is the capital of Faroe islands?

Tórshavn is the small capital of Faroe islands that has “appropriated” all the traffic lights. Sounds funny, but, there are only three traffic lights in the town placed strategically one to another.
Tórshavn, the capital of the archipelago, is a small modern town with a population of about 13,000. There are buses in Tórshavn and public transport is free, so you can explore the city without spending too much money.

What type of climate is the Faroe Islands?

The climate in the Faroe Islands is not the most friendly. The islands are windy, gloomy, and cool all year round, with an average of 210 rainy or snowy days per year. It is the only reason why the Faroe Islands are considered as one of the cloudiest parts in the world, next to Antarctica and Venezuela.

Most people visit the Faroe Islands between May and September, as the most popular months are June, July, and August.

Here the umbrella is the most important ”tool” because the weather changes at a rapid pace. Local residents talk about the strongest storms when the wind tears roofs off houses and overturns cars. In general, the inhabitants of the archipelago are used to it. But when the sheep run away, the local residents realize that the situation is serious, because these animals can usually predict storms and hide from them on time.

What is the currency of Faroe islands?

Interestingly, the local currency is pegged to the Danish krona and is not autonomous. But the Faroese landscape krona design is stunning. The Faroe Islands have two currencies of equal value: the Faroese króna and the Danish krone. The Faroe Islands’ currency, the króna, is issued by Denmark’s national bank, Danmarks National bank.

Is there crime on Faroe islands?

The crime rate on Faroe islands is very low.
Everyone knows everyone, and the Prime Minister’s phone number is right in the phone book. The local population prefers to build small houses rather than large ones. Green Scandinavian roofs to save heat are characteristic of the Faroe Islands archipelago. The locals, extremely friendly and helpful, live in Scandinavian houses with grass roofs, and you can always turn to a local resident in case you need assistance.

There is no prison in the archipelago where prisoners can serve their sentences. Of course, crime occurs in all societies, even in the safest ones, so if the offender’s sentence is more than 1.5 years, he is transported to one of the Danish prisons.

What is the main economy source on Faroe Islands?

The economy of this area is based mainly on fishing and sheep farming. There are about 80,000 sheep and the total population of the archipelago is 48,000. Farmers attach reflective elements to sheep so that cars do not drive over them. Interestingly, these animals are used here as… lawn mowers!

What is the Faroe Islands most famous local tradition?

Faroese and Danish customs are inextricably linked in the indigenous culture of the Faroe Islands and the traditional influence is generally quite strong.
The medieval national dance is still very popular today, especially at music festivals. A fascinating and very spicy tradition associated with the Faroe Islands is the man’s gloves knitting. The Faroe Islands girls knit and give the boys “man’s gloves” to see how serious the groom’s intentions are. If the gift is refused, it indicates that the boy is not yet ready for marriage.

How to get around the Faroe Islands?

Renting a car on Faroe Islands is the most practical and affordable way to explore this small country. Your road tour shall begin when you arrive at Vagar Airport. To rent a car at Vagar Airport, you must be at least 20 years old and hold a valid driver’s license. Some type of vehicles have a greater rental age and may charge a premium fee. Fuel is significantly cheaper on the Faroe Islands than in Western Europe.
The roads in the Faroe Islands are reminiscent of the Scottish highlands, in a way that there are no highways; instead, you’ll be amazed by the extensive range of mountain roads that connect the islands through a combination of bridges and tunnels under the sea.The capital, Torshavn, is the busiest part of the island, but is far from crowded.

Image by wirestock on Freepik

The largest source of congestion in the Faroe Islands is sheep on the roads. Be careful when driving on winding roads as sheep often cross them not afraid of cars.

One thing to keep in mind is that there are limited number of gas stations on the islands, but since the distances are manageable, this doesn’t have to be a challenge. However, if you choose to travel to an unknown destination, it is advisable not to fill the tank below 1/4 before refueling. Driving in the Faroe Islands can be dangerous due to the rapidly falling fog. It is also advisable to always keep your driving lights on. Faroe Islands have right-hand traffic. Because the islands are so rugged, you will come across several tunnels, some quite long and others very old, originally intended for passenger transport.

Common driving rules apply when driving in road tunnels on Faroe Islands.

At the entrance to the tunnel there is signage indicating who has priority. You must enter tunnels carefully and always have the lights on. In single-lane tunnels, the passing points are 100 meters apart. If you do not have the right of way and encounter another vehicle, you must reverse to the nearest overtaking spot. If you come across a truck in a single-lane tunnel, the truck always has priority and the vehicle must always reverse to the next overtaking spot. When driving downhill in a tunnel, you must give way to those driving uphill.

What are the Faroe islands top attractions?

Lake Sorvagsvatn, Kallur Lighthouse, and Mykines Island are the most visited attractions on the Faroe islands.

If you’re not sure where to begin and don’t want to deal with traffic, ferries, or trip plans, consider booking daily planned excursions.

Where to stay in Faroe Islands?

Plan your booking hotel in the Faroe islands before you book anything else. There are just a few hotels on the Faroe Islands, ranging from basic 2-star accommodations to 4-star luxury hotels. If you wish to stay in a hotel in the Faroe Islands, book as soon as possible, at least 6 months in advance.

Some of the most beautiful accommodations in the Faroes are refurbished boathouses and grass-roofed cottages with fully equipped kitchens.

The majority of Faroe Islands lodgings consist of self-catering apartments and cottages. Almost all the hotels are found in Tórshavn, the capital on Streymoy Island.

Hotel Brandan and the 4-star Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands are the newest additions to Tórshavn’s hospitality landscape. Unique hotels with great restaurants and very friendly staff.

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Destination travel stories: 5 of the best places to travel this Summer French Riviera places to visit

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MONTSERRAT, CATALONIA – Characteristic and clearly defined silhouette of Montserrat mountains with its polished profiles, perfectly recognizable from many places in Catalonia, has made Montserrat a very special place, a large, natural altar of rocky needles, between deep channels that open a paradise for hikers and climbers, but also for Pilgrims seeking the spirit of the mountains. The popular imagination has seen in these mountains the forms of a great ,,organ’’, a ,,traveling ship’’ or an enchanted world over the forests of prominent rocky islands. Schiller and Goethe were among the travelers and writers who wrote about Montserrat all over the world and in all eras, and Wagner chose it as the setting for his Parsifal. Meanwhile, the vernacular has given each rock peak its own name: the mummy, the elephant, the top hat, the skull, the enchanted monks, the pregnant woman, the scissors, the parrot, the nun, the radish, etc..

Where is Montserrat monastery?

Montserrat monastery is located in the Montserrat Natural Park in the region of Central Catalonia. Central Catalonia includes the counties of Anoia, Bages, Osona, Valles Oreintal and Valles Occidental. Its backbone is the Serralada Prelitoral coastal promontory. This mountain range begins with the Serra d’Ancosa, then reappears in Montserrat, takes shape with the Serra de Sant Liorenc del Munt I I’Obac and the cliffs of Gallifa and Berti, and reaches its peak in the Montseny massif. Flatter areas extend to either side, such as the Odena Basin, the Pla de Bages and Plana de Vic plains to the north and the Valles foreshore graben to the south. In the north, central Catalonia is bordered by mountain foothills such as the Serra de Pinos and the Serra de Castellallat, the plateaus of Moianes and Ljucanes and the Collsacabra mountains.

What are the main towns in central Catalonia?

The main towns in the western part are Igualada and Manresa, which makes no secret of the fact that Manresa claims to be the capital of central Catalonia. The capital of the eastern part, whose axis forms the Ter, is Vic, surrounded by mountains, in the beautiful middle of the plain with the same name. The towns of Terrassa, Sabadell and Granollers in Valles are already on the edge of the urban metropolitan area of Barcelona. In addition to the important district towns, there are also some sub-districts in Central Catalonia with their own character. These include Moianes with the main town of Moia, Ljucanes, a little further north, whose center is Prats de Ljucanes, and the Alta Segarra in the north of the Anoia district with the main town of Calaf. All in all, a conglomerate that forms a rich and diverse area.

The current structure of Central Catalonia is a direct consequence of the region’s medieval history. After the end of the uncertainty caused by the continuous Saracen incursions in the early Middle Ages, many farmers and traders who had taken refuge in the mountains followed the call of the Catalan counts and the most influential religious institutions such as the diocese of Vic and the monastery of Sant Cugat del Valles, and settled in central Catalonia. In order to bind the new residents to the area, land was given to them to cultivate and numerous parish churches, new monasteries and fortresses were built. Today’s towns and villages emerged and grew under their protection. These ancient structures are still evident both in the forested mountainous areas of these counties with their scattered small hamlets and farms, as well as in the streets of the historic districts of the larger cities and their rich and valuable architectural heritage.

How to get in Montserrat?

The entire fantastic mountain world can be reached via the country road that leads from Monistrol up to the Montserrat monastery. However, if you would like to add a further attraction to your visit, you should take the cog railway to the monastery, which overcomes the height difference of over 500 meters on a dizzying route that runs directly along the steep rock faces and offers wonderful views.

What is Montserrat best known for?

A real landmark and symbol of Montserrat for decades has been the  Montserrat cable car. It is a Classic artifact that conists of yellow cabins that follow the cable from the foot of the mountain and appear to hang in nowhere against the immense rock face on their way to the monastery.

At the entrance to the monastery there is traditionally a daily market with products from Montserrat, among which the curd-like fresh cheese ,,mato’’, produced mainly in Mrganell, a village located in the shelter of the mountains, stands out. Honey, cheesecake, fig bread and other traditional products are also offered here. The gigantic neo-Romanesque apse of the Santa Maria monastery rises above the market.

What is the history of Montserrat monastery?

The monastery of Montserrat has its origins in the small church of Santa Maria, whose existence was documented as early as 888. It no longer survives today, but the Romanesque church that replaced it in the 12th century does. Today’s basilica is a Renaissance building from the 16th century, whose bells ring every morning at six o’clock, as they did centuries ago, for the Benedictine monks. There are a total of eight hanging in the Gothic bell tower, of which the sister weighs around seven and a half tons and with their ring is marked the beginning of the day in the sacred mountains. Centuries of Christian tradition speak from the psalms that the monks recite in the choir stalls of the church, whose smoothly polished wood bears witness centuries of use, and which are still used by the liveliness of one of the most famous pilgrimage centers in the Catholic world. The daily routine is still dictated by the bells today, as it has always been since the monastery was founded by Abbot Oliba in the 11th century. The durability of this institution has allowed the veneration of Our Lady of Montserrat, patron saint of Catalonia, but also an important publishing activity, the publishing house of Montserrat, a 500 years old publishing house and one of the oldest in Europe. Around fifty boys between the ages of ten and fourteen live here with the monks and receive a musical education that results in admirable choir quality. If you visit Montserrat, you should not miss listening to the Salve Regina and the Virolai, the Montserrat hymn with a text by the famous Catalan poet Jacint Verdaguer, the Escolania, in the church.

What are the Montserrat best attractions to visit?

Basilica of Santa Maria 

Beside Montserrat monastery church the Basilica of Santa Maria  is another attraction worth to visit. To get to the entrance of the basilica, you first have to cross the Placa de Santa Maria, from which you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Santa Magdalena rock formations with the popular Gorra Frigia, where seemingly tiny climbers can often be seen from the distance climbing the summit. In addition to the impressive facade of the monastery, the old Gothic cloister from the 15th century has been preserved. A vestibule opens beneath the facade which represents a transitional space between the monastery squares filled with visitors and the seclusion of the inner monastery area. You can see the portal of the former Romanesque church, made in Neapolitan workshops consisting of various sculptures by Rafael Solanich, Joseph Clara and Frederic Mares. From the inner courtyard, with its paving inspired by the Piazza di Campidoglio in Rome, you can see the entire facade of the basilica, built in 1900 and 1901 over an older Baroque facade. Here you can see sculptures of Jesus and his twelve disciples, a large rose window and a hundred-year-old clock. Today’s single-nave Renaissance basilica has twelve side chapels, six on each side. Above the high altar is the polychrome carved figure of the Blessed Virgin, also known as La Moreneta because of the dark color of her hands and face. It is visited every day by hundreds of believers, tourists and curious people. The Moreneta altar chapel is built over various rooms renovated in 1944 by various Catalan artists. The silver throne of the Mother of God was donated by Glaubiden in 1947.

Montserrat Museum

The Montserrat Museum its another attraction famous for its outstanding archaeological section of the biblical East, most of which was acquired by a monk from Montserrat who traveled in the Middle East. Another highlight of the museum is the Department of Modern Painting and Sculpture with paintings by El Greco, Caravaggio, Berruguete, Picasso, Dali, Tapies, Le Corbusier, Fortuny, Vayreda, Casas, Mir, Nonell, Rusinol and many others. Departments for ancient painting, religious goldsmith and the iconography of Our Lady of Montserrat over the centuries complete the offering.

Library of Montserrat

The Library of Montserrat is an impressive documentation and study center and a symbol of the intellectual and cultural activity of the Benedictines. Its book inventory includes 270K volumes, including around 400 incunabula and over 2K manuscripts, among which the extraordinary Libre Vermell, an encyclopedic manuscript from the 14-16 centuries, stands out. Over time, the Montserrat Monastery has not only been a purely religious and cultural symbol, but as a supporter of the demands of the Catalan identity movement it has also been an important reference point for the patriotism of the population.

Mirador de Sant Miquel viewpoint

To get an overview of the monastery complex, you can take a short walk to Placa de l’Abat Oliba and from there take a stone-paved path along the slope to the Mirador de Sant Miquel viewpoint where a large cross is located. It is a cantilevered observation balcony that offers a panoramic view of the entire Montserrat monastery. At the beginning of this path, the cog railway to Santa Cova also departs, which overcomes the incline to the path to the cave where, according to tradition, the figure of the Madonna was found. Along this path stands the Monumental Rosary, a group of monuments comprising fifteen sculptures, including works by Puig I Cadafalch, Gaudi and Joseph Limona, among others.

The Montserrat Nature Park

The Montserrat Mountains were declared a natural park in 1987. There are over 1,000 plant species found here, a third of those cataloged throughout Catalonia by their natural values ​​and the landscape relief. In addition, Montserrat Nature Park has been the school of numerous generations of hikers and climbers to this day. Its rock faces and mountains have countless paths and trails that allow you to explore the mountains in all directions. It is a rugged mountain range in which constant differences in height have to be overcome. If you like hiking or climbing here, you should always have a good map with you. Hundreds of routes of all levels of difficulty are available for climbers. In other words, there is a whole world to discover here.

In the protection of the iconic mountain range there are also other places worth seeing, such as the Romanesque church of Santa Cecilia, which stands on the road to Can macana, above which rises the most impressive rocky needles in the entire mountain range, or the Salnitre caves near Collbato, in which in one hour you can see more than half a kilometer of hall and corridors with names such as the Cathedral Hall, Cave of the Tame, Butterfly Gallery, Devil’s Fountain, Monks’ Cloister, Altar Chapel, Devil’s Wing, Bishop, or Confessional.

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The French Riviera, which spans from the Italian border to the western side of the Var administrative district, is ideally located between the sea and the mountains. The French poet Stephen Liegeard originated the French term for the Riviera, ”La Cote d’Azur”, literally the Azure coast, almost a century ago. However, it is a veiled word that conceals the astonishing variety that characterizes this region of France.

Why should you visit the French Riviera?

Rich History

The historical variety of the Cote d’ Azur area allows the traveller to journey from prehistoric sites to medieval castles, from Roman ruins to hilltop perched villages, from romanesque churches to more recent works. Its geographical variety offers sumptuous landscapes from the jagged, multi-coloured rocks of L’Esterel through long, apparently languorous bays and cliffs that give way to the cornices of Eze, Menton or Cannes, up through the countless, steep-sided valeys of the Nice hinterland.

Environmental variety takes in large, busy, commercial towns, along with well-preserved villages that have witnessed an intense and rich history; it goes from the jovial, bustling, crowded market of Cours Saleya to the huge open spaces of the Mercantour Park, a paradise for chamois, marmots and nature lovers.

Mild Climate

The French Riviera has the nicest year-round climate in France, with typical summer temperatures well above 30°C (80°F), long dry summers, warm springs, autumns, and moderate winters. Its varied climate allows visitors to dangle their feet in the deep blue sea, while contemplating, in the distance, the snow capped summits of the winter sport resorts of Auron, Isola 2000 or Valberg.

Variety of vegetation

The variety of vegetation combines the scents of aromatic herbs and the perfume of mimosa, rose, jasmine or lavender with that of the astonishing species collected together in exotic botanical gardens. Nor must we forget to mention the softly swaying palms, the parasol pines, fiercely clinging to the rocks; the hustle and bustle of the little towns, the quiet of the villages; or the smooth cascade of streams over solid rock. All of this is combined with the flavours of an enviable cuisine based on thyme, olive oil, garlic and basil bathed in the myriad golden rays of a generous Mediterranean sun.

Which places to visit in French Riviera?

Menton

Menton is a French Riviera border town to the east of the Maritime-Alps, and it is the last place to visit before entering Italy. This community is well-protected from the northern winds and is the warmest resort town on the Riviera, making it a very popular destination for seniors. Its tropical climate in summer is ideal for growing oranges, mandarins, and lemon trees, and the citrus groves around this south French community cover the terrain completely.

The most representative place to visit in Menton is the Baisilique de Saint Michel Archange constructed in the 17 th century. In the heart of the church can be found a 16th century altarpiece by Andre Manchello and numerous objects of art, such as an 18th century statue of Saint Michel in polychrome wood. Another place to visit in Menton is the Chapelle des Penitents Blancs and Hotel de Ville (Town Hall) whose wedding salon was decorated by the painter, poet and dramatist Jean Cocteau. The The Museum of Jean Cocteau with a fine collection of tapestries, drawings, watercolours and oil paintings of great value, can be found in a 16th century fortress. Musee Municipal is also very interesting place to visit in Menton. The ground floor is dedicated to archaeological finds, which include the skull of a Cro-Magnon Man, while the first floor has an important collection of paintings. Another tourist attraction is the Jardin Botanic et Exotique ( Botanical Gardens) in which there is a profusion of all sorts of Mediterranean plants. During the Carnival period, Menton becomes the center of a series of over the top activities attracting numerous tourists, particularly while the Citrus fair is on. During this fete, in the gardens of the Bioves, there is a magnificent exhibition using only citrus fruits for decoration. Participants are given a theme and then try to outdo each other in originality and artistry.

One the Sea front, parades are organised using floats decorated solely with lemnsand oranges. It is a spectacle that is full of life, colour and light, especially striking for the incrediblecontrast between the blue sky and the yellow and orange of the citrus fruits.

Eze Village

Some historians have claimed that the name of this village is derived from the Egyptian Goddess Isis, while others have insisted it comes from the term visia or Avisiam, which the Romans gave to look out posts on high vantage points. Perched upon a rock, 427 metres above the sea, this town, fortified by Caesar, is a veritable eagle’s nest. This ancient agricultural village, which at the begining of the 14 th century was a Guelph stronghold, saw its castle dismantled in 1706 under the orders of Louis XIV. Narrow, sloping streets, giving the village a picturesque air, leadthe visitor down to the Chapelle des Penitents Blancs and to the Eglise which is well worth place to visit.

Cap D’Ail

A commune created in 1908, the Baron de Pauville had previously launched Cap D’Ail as a Spa town in 1879. Terraced upon the lower slopes of the Tete de Chien Mountain the commune extends down to the edge of Monaco where a footpath, along the coast, can be followed into Monaco itself. A renowned tourist resort, Cap D’Ail is surounded by well preserved countryside, fissures, cliffs and foothpaths, bathed in exultant fragrances from hundreds of pines, eucalyptus, rock-roses and sycamores. Of particular note is the open air Jean Cocteau Theater, a must-see place to visit, decorated with three fine mosaics by the artist.

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

This French Riviera place to visit is a peninsula covered with pines and olive trees on which luxurious residences and properties, such as that belonging to Leopold II of Belgium, have been erected. The Palais Rose, constructed between 1909 and 1912 in an Italian style, was bequeathed to L’Institut de France pour l’Academie de Beaux Arts by the Baroness Ephrussi de Rotschild in 1934. Here to be admired is a marvellous collection of art from the 16th to the 19th century; a collection of porcelain from Sevres; of royal tapestries from Savonnerie and of 18th century furniture, some of which belonged to Marie Antoinette. The gardens surrounding the villa museum are in every way remarkable and on summer evenings become the scene for numerous theatrical events, concerts or conferences. The principal garden is in the French style the others are in a variety of styles.

Cannes

Cannes is built on the site of an old Ligurian city, on an elevation that slopes down to the shores of the Gulf of Napoule, with the Massif of L’Esterel in the background.
This charming piece of French Riviera, shaped by its surrounding hills, has a very pleasant climate all year round. Among the prominent festivals hosted here, the International Festival of Cinema is undoubtedly the most well-known festival, contributing to Cannes’ status as one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

The origins of the city are little known, since it languished in obscurity for centuries until 1834. That was the year that Lord Brougham, who was the British Lord Chancellor at the time, was en route to Italy when a colera outbreak there forced him to make an unscheduled stop over in Cannes. Impressed by the mild climate, the blue of the sky and the beauty of the site he decided to build a winter residence there and numerous British aristocrats followed his example. Lord Brougham obtained the funds needed to build a dike besides the old town from King Louis Phillipe. The town continued to grow from than on until it became the world famous resort it is today.
During the first half of the 8th century, the Saracens invaded the Cannes region and held it for many years.

Later in the 18th century, Cannes was completely destroyed after having suffered several raids by Arab pirates, an invasion by the troops of the Duke of Savoy and finally that of the Austrian army. In 1815 Napoleon escaped from the Isle of Elbe and landed at Golfe-Juan. A small troop of 40 grenadiers, under the command of Cambronne, then occupied Cannes and Napoleon, hidden among the dunes, was obliged to bivouac near the Chapele de Norte.

Historically, Cannes was always closely linked to the Lerin Isles and through diverse tourist links it still is. The tourist offer includes pleasure trips around the islands, especially frequent in summer and wonderfully artistic ‘Sound and light show’. A narrow strait called the ‘Plateau du Milleu’, which is largely frequented by private boats, separates the two Islands.

In 1858 Prosper Merimee, an inspector of historic monuments toured the Lerin Isles and noted the importance of Cannes and its surroundings. After Miremee thee appeared Guy de Maupassant, Toqueville, Thiers, Stephen Liegards as well as many other personalities from the world of arts and letters. From this period on, Cannes became one of the favouirite haunts of artists, rich bankers, aristocrats and high-class tourists.

The modern image of Cannes is well known throughout the world. Its famous festivals of recorded musicin January and of cinema in May concetrate the attention of music and cinema lovers worldwide on the city. Numerous congreses are held here and Cannes tourism is intense throughout the year, making Cannes a fashionable resort of truly international proportions. The city also offers extensive leisure and sports opportunities allowing the visitor to play hard too.

Cannes stretches some nine kilometers from the La Bocca district to the rocks of the Fourcade. From the harbour the town presents a wonderful panorama. The city is centered on the Rue d’Antibes, the Allees de la Liberte and especially on La croisette. A really cosmopolitan boulebard, this three kilometers promenade around the harbour goes from the Old Port and the Palais des Congres, built on the site of the old municipal casino, to the tip of Palm Beach, where the modern Casino d’Ete and the Port Canto can be found. A walk along the boulevard presents quite a spectacle in itself, performed against a backdrop of the sea, golden beaches, swaying palms and a profusion of flowers. La Croisette has become a true symbol of the rapid expansion and new-found vocation of Cannes.

The Palais de Congress area of the boulevard concentrates together several luxury hotels such as the Carlton of the Majestic, opulent residences and fashionable name brand boutiques. Truly this vast explanade reclaimed from the sea and planted with pleasant gardens, is the best trump card the city holds.

Cannes extends to the north, along the Boulevard Carnot, as far as Cannet to the west up to La Bocca along the boulevard Jean Hibert, which takes in the Plage du Midi, and to the east, past the luxurious mansions lining the beautiful avenues of the residental areas known as La Californie and Cannes Eden. Running parallel to La croisette, the Rue d’Antibes is an important commercial center with magnificent stores, while the Rue Meynadier displays its bustling dynamism to the world through its colorful and spirited window displays. In the center of the city there is Le Suquet hill, the ancient bulwark of Cannes where streets and houses cluster around the slopes of Mount Chevalier. Le Suquet has the intimate, quiet and peaceful feel of a village in great contrastto the busy modern city beyond.

The 22 metre high Suquet Tower is the building which best represents old Cannes. Fidhermen had always used it as a reference point when navigating around the coast. There is magnificent panoramic view over Cannes available from the ancient walls of Le Suquet.Overlooking the old port, Suquet is criss-crossed with charming crooked streets such as the Rues Mont Chevalier, Sant-Antoine, La Boucherie, Le Pre or Saint-Dizier. Among other places to visit in Cannes are Church of the Lady of Hope, Place de la Castre, The Castre Museum, the Old Port.

St. Marguerite Island

The island of Sainte Marguerite, 900 m across and 3 km long from east to west is the larger and the higher of the two islands. With the exception of the Domaine du Grand Jardin, Sainte – Marguerite belongs entirely to the state. The isle is wooded with pines and eucalyptus and criss-crossed with enchanting paths. It harbours a charming little fishing village with a few shops.

Saint Honorat Island

The island of Saint Honorat, 1500 metres long by 400 meters across is very dense in pines, laurels, vines and flowers.
For eight centuries, from 575 AD, the isle was the seat of the Benedictine monks who governed Cannes and region. Today the monastery, which suffered numerous attacks throughout the history, is home to some Cistercian Monks. Although there are some Romanesque chapels on the island, the most important architectural feature is the Castle. Rectangular in layout it was built as a prison fort, in the 11th century, on the site of an ancient Roman well. The Monks of the Lerins took refuge here from the attacks they were subjected to over the centuries. The modern monastery was built in the 19th century and is surrounded by the old buildings once occupied by the monks.
The museum has fragments of Roman Christian engraved stones found on the isle along with documents pertaining to the monastery’s history and organisation.
On 1834 the last few houses to the west of Cannes marked where the dunes and pines began, there was nothing beyond them except the Chateau de la Bocca and the Chapel of Saint Cassien. Then in 1855 the glazier Joseph Barthelemy moved into the area and started off the urbanization of La Bocca. Today it is an important commercial and industrial area with mechanics, workshops and a shipyard. Urban development in the area has been rational and allowed for the creation of districts that are more like villages such as Frayere, Bosquet, Fouery and Croix des Gardes.

Mandelieu – La Napoule

Mandelieu la Napoule has had many names the Romans called it Mantolvocus, Mandolocas or Mandullocus, thought it did not acquire its present name until the Middle Ages. Eucher, the lord of Mandalieu a generous and civilised man, liberated his slaves around year 400 and distributed a large part of his gameoods among the peasants of his fiefdom. In the 18th century, Arab Pirates destroyed the town completely. Some inhabitants refused to take flight and stayed to rebuild the village, founding in 1706 the Capitou. In 1782 a bridge across the Siagne was built. At the end of the 19th century, a cork works was opened in nearby Termes that doubled the population.
Mimosa, and Australian plant that was imported and acclimatized by the celebrited horticulturist Gilberd Nabonard, who was from Golf Juan, made a significant contribution to the local economy. Mandalieu was opened out towards the sea by the building of a port at La Napoule, some 7 km from Cannes. The Lords of Villeneuve built the Castle of Napoule, on a rocky outcrop, in 1390. Raymond de Turenne later destroyed it leaving only three massive square towers and their battlements. In 1919 it was rebuild by the American Sculpture Henry Clews and currently houses the work of this artist. La Napoule has become a great tourist centre due to its wide sands and its spa, which remains open in winter.
Forming a balcony that is largely open to the see, Theoule has found a niche for itself among a chain of hills covered in greenery and flowers. Dependent on Mandalieu until 1929, in is now an autonomous commune. Its four leisure ports can welcome up to 1000 boats and its beaches stretch a full 10 km. There are also some 100km of footpaths though the surrounding countryside, which notably includes the Forest Park of Eagle Point. Theoule’s offer to the visitors could perhaps trump many of its more celebrated neighbours.

Not far from Theoule’s is the curious village of Port la Galere. Designed by the architect Jacques Couelle, the village was built on a wooded site and perfectly integrated into the surrounding cliffs.

Villefransche-Sur-Mer

Six kilometers from Nice, Villefransche-Sur-Mer is one of the most well protected and picturesque portson the French Riviera. The town has maintained an air of authenticity with its multicoloured houses, typical of the area, clinging to the flanks of the mountain; its stepped passageways, itstortuous streets descending to the sea, or its winding Rue Obscure close to the port. Of equal note is the Citadel and Saint Peter’s Chapel, decorated by Jean Cocteau and well worth a detour.

Where to stay in the French Riviera?

The greatest places to stay in French riviera are the old town centers or the promenades on the first seafront. Those are the costly options. If you are traveling on a tight budget, the peripheries of the old towns or the neighborhoods near the train stations will undoubtedly be less expensive. If you are searching for a nice, cozy and modern hotel, apartment, hostel or villa we suggest you to check the list of French riviera hotels with their updated booking hotel compare offers where you can explore and choose the one that best suits your needs.

The 4-star Welcome Hotel Villefranche-sur-Mer has 35 rooms with stunning views of the Fishing Harbour. This pet-friendly hotel, located near Chapelle de Saint Pierre des Pecheurs and Rue Obscure, offers activities such as canoeing, hiking, and mini golf. The property is close to a boat port and a 10-minute drive from Passable Beach Parking.

For latest holiday booking hotel in French riviera offers visit our Partner links here

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BOOKING HOTEL IN recommends Carlton Cannes a Regent Hotel – This world-class 5 star hotel is located on the famed Croisette Avenue in Cannes, between the Cannes Palais des Festivals and the retail district. It provides amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea. The Carlton Cannes Regent boasts ten spectacular suites on the seventh floor, each named after a great cinema actor.

When is the best time to visit the French Riviera?

The ideal months to visit the French Riviera are May, June, July, and September. August is normally extremely congested because many people in France enjoy their vacations at this period. Visiting during the shoulder season may also be a nice alternative, as accommodations are cheaper.

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Summertime is the ideal time to venture outside and take in the breathtaking sceneries. Exploring new places to travel is one of the best parts of summer holidays. This summer, gather your belongings and prepare to travel to a destination that has always been on your bucket list—a fresh adventure that you have never seen before. You can select some of the best summer vacations for couples and families that are well-known for their scenic beauty, rich culture, tranquility, adventure activities, and more, based on your interests.
There are plenty vacation ideas and destinations for this summer where you can discover stunning sceneries, enjoy the nice weather, go on an unusual tours, spend time with loved ones, and overaly unwind from hectic schedules. With stunning views of the mountains and magnificent beaches, we’ve compiled a list of the top five places to travel this summer.

1. La Valleta, Malta consistently ranks highest among the Mediterranean islands that are most popular summer travel destinations. Travellers are drawn to the striking sceneries, but they are also fascinated with it’s rich culture. Malta’s capital is an architectural wonder, with a hint of 16th-century elegance mixed with stunning architecture made of sand-colored stone. All year long, it’s an enthralling location that combines its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation with a laid-back vibe. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the magnificent St. John’s Cathedral, a work of art created by the Knights of Malta and lavishly covered in gold leaf, Lascaris War Rooms, Military Museums, Upper Barrakka Gardens and more of the Glorifull city of La Valleta.
A brief trip to the quaint neighboring island of Gozo is a must-do excursion!

2. Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka – This resort town is located in Sri Lanka’s Central Mountain Range. It is difficult to believe that Nuwara Eliya, blessed with healthy climate and stunning vistas of valleys, meadows, mountains, and flora, is only 180 kilometers away from the Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo. Known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya was the preferred hill station of the British, who attempted to transform the resort into an English village. Reminiscent of Colonial British Ceylon include the ancient brick post office, the country house-like hill club with its hunting photographs, mounted hunting trophies and fish, and its stringent formal dining clothing; the 18-hole golf course, the race track, etc. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the picturesque man-made Lake Gregory, Hakgala Botanical Gardens, Laxhapana Falls, Oliphant Tea Plantation Estate, The Ceylon Breweries and more of this beautiful Tropical mountain escape.

3. Bar Harbour, Maine is one of the unexplored jewels of the United States, if not in all of New England. It is a recommended place to go in summer for all outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, adventurers, sea and nature lovers. Walk around the main street full of shops, taste fresh lobster in one of its famous fish restaurants, or sail around Mount Desert Island dramatic rocky shorelines as an alternative. You can hire a local skipper to show you and your group around and remember to go whale watching. New England is a feeding place for the whales in the summer and fall, so there’s a considerable probability that you will be able to find and see some of these wonderful gentle giants while on tour. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit West Street Historic District, picturesque Otter Cliff, Ocean Trail and more of Maine’s coastal heritage.

4. Ngorongoro, Tanzania is easily accessible from Arusha, city located in the eastern part of Tanzania and is a best summer vacation for couples, families, first-time safari tourists, and solo travelers. For those who prefer Tanzania as a once-in-a-lifetime travel the best way to experience it, is to search for the best safari tour packages that include flights, ground transfers, lodges, and activities. That way you will be fully covered throughout your vacation without any concern regarding the transfers, overstays, meals ect. Once you get there Ngorongoro Crater is the central must point to visit. It is believed that the Ngorongoro Crater is home to 30,000 big animals among which the most popular are the group of ”big five” which includes elephants, lions, buffalos, leopards and rhinos. Beside the Ngorongoro don’t miss the opportunity to visit Olmoti Crater, Lake Manyara, Serengeti National park and their rich offer of Safari Tours and Lodges.

5. Wellington in New Zealand, is another summer holiday idea and a great, walkable city worth visiting. Well-known for its seaside promenade, Victorian architecture, waterfronts lined with cafes and boutiques, and street performers that evokes memories of Europe, adventure awaits you in every corner. Calling you to explore its stunning sceneries and rich cultural legacy, ”windy Wellington” offers a wide aray of sightseings. If Wellington is your preferred summer vacation destination, keep in mind to visit Te Pappa Museum, Cuba Street, Wellington Cable Car, Mount Victoria, Zealandia Ecosanctuary and more of New Zealand’s cultural Capital.

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PHILIPSBURG, SAINT MARTIN – The Netherlands are in bed with France on the tiny island of Sint Maarten and have been peacefully so for more than 200 years. The border divides the smallest land mass in the world of approximately 96 sq km, by two countries. The smaller Dutch Sint Maarten is brash with large resorts, casinos and fast food joints, whereas the French St. Martin is prettier, quiter, and more sophisticated, with Parisian-styleshops and cafes.

Thousands of tourists are drawn to this island, and many of them  return each year to take in the glories of a distinct tropical paradise.

Philipsburg is the capital of Sint Maarten. It is easy to find your way around Philipsburg, there are only two streets running parallel to the waterfront and one is called Voorstraat (Front Street) the other Achterstraat (Back Street). These are the main shopping areas and tend to get very crowded when cruise ship passangers descent on the duty-free port, which has designer boutique and traditional architecture.
Old Street is one of many lanes connecting the two, and here you will find pretty, alfresco restaurants and the Old Street Shopping Centre, a small mall with more than 20 shops as well as grill and pizza restaurants.

Good places for catch-of-the-day specials are Antoine’s on Front Street and the Greenhouse nearby.

The most convenient beaches are Great Bay, located just along the Philipsburg’s Front Street, and Little Bay, slightly further west, both crowded. For more privacy, take a taxy further afield to Simpson Bay Beach. Nice place for water sports and gambling within nearby Pelican Resort. Great beach for snorkeling is Dawn beach or Maho Bay Beach where you can sunbathe in style or play the tables at the Maho Bay Hotel and Casino.

Duty-free  shopping is available throughout the whole island.
It is here where you can get the best  deals on jewellery, gadgets, clothing,  cosmetics, and even food.

In Wathey Square, which faces the pier, there’s a late 18th century courthouse and some beautiful old buildings decorated with traditional West Indian gingerbread fretwork. A lively market, a selection of restaurants and plenty more shops make this a place to head for, along with the little lanes, lined with more boutiques, cafes and the occasional courtyard, spilling over with tropical plants.
Among the best buys is jewellry, which is resonably priced. Posh shops sell Gucci an other designer goods as well as alcohol and leather products at duty free prices, although not as low as they are in St. Thomas. But for a real taste of the West Indies, look in at a local store crammed with spices, cane sugar, batik clothing , handwoven hammocks, local crafts and quavaberry liqueur, the local rum based firewater made from wild red berries, which can spike up a cocktail.

If you prefer to experience the island from a different perspectives than book a tour. That’s the only way to explore St.Maarten and discover it’s natural beauties as well as it’s ecological treasures. Country roads, mountain breezes, and beautiful beaches await you. Plenty of choises among which you can make an escape from the crowds and head to the beautiful uninhabited Pinel Island – the very essence of the Caribbean.

If you have always wanted to try scuba diving but just have not had the right opportunity than you can join ”Discover Scuba diving program” and experience an undersea world full of tropical marine life, coral reefs and sunken wrecks in just a few hours. You will enjoy some of the best pre selected dive sites available in the waters that surround St. Maarten. The journey starts at the dive shop where you will be outfitted with dive gear and board a dive boat before divided in groups. At the dive sites, the Dive Master will provide a dive profile and will lead you into the water for two 30-40 minute dives with a 35-40 minute surface interval. The sites will be chosen prior to your dive based on prevailing weather conditions. All sites are excellent and vary between 35-70 feet in depth. When possible, a combination reef and wreck dive will be chosen with safety being the main concern. You may see sting rays, barracudas, lobster, eels, beautiful sponges, corals and a variety of reef fish. Turtles, sharks and eagle rays have been seen on occasion.

The most popular tours offered in the Caribbean are the Catamaran tours. Usually a half day tour filled with lots of rum, reggae tunes and deserted beach visit on a nearby island. While on St. Marteen experience the Golde Eagle Catamaran Tour to the deserted island of Tintamur. Why Goldedn Eagle? Because is the biggest, fastest and best looking 76-foot, winged mast catamaran in the Caribbean. Open bar and light snacks are included while sailing at speeds up to 30 knots. Be on the lookout for flying fish or dolphins while you lay in the nets or laze in the shade of the sailboat, embossed with a gigantic golden eagle. During a stop at a quite cove, you will have the opportunity to snorkel from the boat in the crystal clear waters or bobo around ona beach float. Explore and swim around coral formations teeming with fish. The Golden Eagle will nuzzle her bow into a fabulous golden sandy beach without a doubt, one of the fnest you will see in the World. Homeward bound, the gigantic yellow spinnaker will be set up as you will start cruising back listening to great music while enjoying cocktails and snacks.

A very unique and one of a kind tour experience while in St. Maarten is America’s cup Regata racing simulation. By booking this tour you can participate in one of the most exclusive sporting events in the world as you grind the winch, trim the sails or take the helm to help lead your crew to victory. No expereince is necessary to participate.

First contested in 1851, the America’s Cup is a match race for sailing’s most coveted prize, an ornate Victorian silver trophy in sports and a symbol of excellence and national achievement.

Feel the thrill of racing the famous 12 meter race boats ”Stars and Stripes” , ”Canada II” , and ”True North”. These are the actual yachts raced in previous cups and you will have the opportunity to compete in your own race around a shortened America’s Cup course.
Other amasing tours of particular interest for the tourists visiting Saint Maarten are deep sea fishing adventure with the high possibility of catching Mahi Mahi, Sailfish, Marlin or Baracuda, following Catamaran Tour, Horseback adventure, ATV experience and many more one of a kind tour adventures. More infos regarding the tours offered in St. Maarten are available through Viator Reserve Now & Pay later Program

Try to find a lovely villa location on the beach or away from the crowded towns if you plan to stay for a week or longer with your loved one. There are many places to stay, therefore making reservations in advance is advised. Seeing all the options for lodging can be a little intimidating, so we’re happy to recommend a few options with links from our partners so you can plan your stay more creatively, regardless of your budget – luxury, low or mid-range.

Located in Terres-Basses on the island of St. Martin, this beautifully furnished seven-bedroom villa boasts stunning views of the ocean as well as chic interior and external design elements. Key interior elements include numerous eating places, an open concept living area, a fully functional kitchen with a breakfast bar, and cozy sofas. Your gorgeous private pool, sun loungers, and lots of spots to relax in the Caribbean heat are all located outdoors.

Within the private Nettle Bay Beach Club, this stylish one-bedroom apartment is perfectly situated, providing immediate beach access and plenty space for two guests to enjoy a romantic holiday. Highlights inside include a modern en suite bathroom with attractive white and purple accents, an American kitchen with a seated breakfast bar, and an open-concept living and dining area. The living area opens onto a covered veranda with a dining table and seating for you to have dinner outdoors while admiring the views of the beach and sea.

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HALIFAX, CANADA – located on the eastern shore of Canada in the province of Nova Scotia. The metropolitan capital of Nova Scotia is known as the ”City of trees”. You may be surprised to find much more than just flora when you arrive at this explorer’s paradise. Halifax is a city of pleasant contradictions, with a vivacious urban area, charming small towns and stunning natural scenery. Museums, historic sights and vibrant gardens are just a few of the many things to take advantage of in Halifax. Some of the city’s main attractions are the Halifax Citadel, the Old Town Clock, City Hall, Province House and St. Paul Anglican Church.

Running north, the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk links the harbor and cruise terminals to many waterfront attractions, offering visitors and easy amble to attractions like the Canadian Museum of Immigration, the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market, Maritime Museum, Cable Wharf, the Metro Transit ferry terminal, the Historic Properties and Casino Nova Scotia. Shops, Restaurants, Boutiques, vendors, pubs and historic look offs line the routes.

Among the most visited is the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
It features several  Titanic exhibits that demonstrate the role Halifax played in the disaster, when three local ships contributed in the task of recovering victims. In fact, over 120 Titanic passengers were laid to rest in nearby Fairview Lawn Cemetery.

A 20-minute drive from Metro, experience Acadian life as lived in the Chezzetcook area. Built in the 1850‘s, the museum houses displays on local heritage, complete with a period kitchen. The ground feature artifacts, plus a cabano oven and a wooden outhouse.

Exploring Halifax Harbour features from shore or by boat, you’ll notice four distinct Islands. Closest to downtown is compact Georges Island, with the small lighthouse on the side. It played a key role in the harbour’s defence system for almost 200 years.

The island was recently named a National Historic site. A little further out in the harbour is McNabs island, another important part of the harbour defence system that was also home to several generations of independent settlers. Today a 22 km network of hiking trails leads past the island’s lighthouse, ruined fortress and batteries, sand beaches and abandoned homesteads. A ferry from Eastern passage or charter boats from Cable Wharf can take you there for a day of exploring. But be sure to pack a lunch and bring water because there are no services on the island. Between Mcnab’s and the mainland at Eastern passage lies Lawlor Island, the protected woodland home of deer and osprey. Finally, tiny Devil’s Island shimmers on the horizon at the harbour’s mouth. Helen Creighton, the celebrated folklorist spent decades gathering stories of mysterious happenings on this ominously named island, once the seasonal home of several fishermen.

An exciting way to make the most of your day is by visiting Paggy’s Cove – an impressive rock formations hundreds of millions of years old. It is a 45 minutes drive west of Halifax on route 333 and  is a place of great rugged beauty, hewn by the forces of nature. Dominated by its famous lighthouse, this tiny fishing community clings to land’s edge. Moss and lichens creep across a barren landscape, peppered by huge boulders called ” erratics”, remnants left ten thousand years ago by receding glaciers at the end of the last Ice Age. Crashing waves batter the rocky shoreline as soaring gulls cry overhead.
Amid this unforgiving landscape, the Peggy’ s  Cove lighthouse endures. Nestled in a blanket of miss, this iconic white and red bacon is a must for every visitor’s photo album and draws thousands of sightseers annually. Explore the rocks with care though, as rogue waves are treacherous. The village was named after the lone survivor of a schooner that sank here in 1800. The village most famous resident was William de Garthe, a Finnish artist who  carved a memorial to the courage of the local fishermen. The sculture covers a 30 metres granit out outcrop and depicts St. Michael, several fisherman, their wives and children. Peggy’s Cove breathtaking natural beauty has made it one of the province’s premium tourist destination and one of the most photographed attractions in Canada.

Whale – watching excursion is a highly recommended outdoor activity in Nova Scotia. To meet local marine life, you’ll find a variety of boat tours and deep-sea fishing charters offered by operators in Fisherman’s Cove in Eastern Passage and at Cable Wharf in Downton Halifax.

For hiking choose Point Pleasant Park.
Lace up your sneakers, grab a water bottle and head to the 75 hectare Park on the south tip of the Halifax Peninsula. Joggers, dog walkers and cross-country skiers flock here year-round. Some 39 km of trails wend past the ruins of early fortifications, the wind-swept shores of Halifax Harbour and, often, seals sun-bathing on the rocks. Pack a Frisbee and picnic and make a day of it.

East of Halifax, you’ll find Island-filled bays, broad sandy beaches and quaint seaside villages. Grab a coffee to go, buckle your seatbelt and head out to meet the sunrise and the rugged seascapes along the Marine Drive.

From Cole Harbour, follow Route 207  through the fishing villages
of Three Fathom, Harbour, Seaforth, Grand Desert and West Chezzetcook, where you’ll discover cultural traditions that date back to the earliest settlers and 18th century Acadians. Grab a bucket and a spade, roll up your pant – legs and go digging for clams on the flats of Clam Harbour or Jeddore Oyster Pond, or turn inland on Route 224  and follow the lush Musquodoboit River Valley west through some of Nova Scotia most unspoilt wilderness. Anglers should pack their tackle. The Musquodoboit river is one of Nova Scotia finest trout and salmon runs. Be sure to bring a camera. Autumn’s chill turns the Woodlands, lichen-covered rocks and heather moors into a guilt of orange, gold and crimson. It’s no wonder this pristine stretch of coast is fast becoming a mecca for outdoor adventurers.

Driving south of Halifax will bring you something different.
The Lighthouse route leads you through the distinctive cultures of Nova Scotia South shore, where life revolves around the sea as it has for centuries. Follow the shore of Halifax Harbour toward the ocean, taking Purcell’s Cove road, route 253, from the Armdale Rotary as it winds along the Northwest Arm. At Herring Cove, route 253  joints route 349 and continues south through Portuguese Cove, Duncan’s Cove, Ketch Harbour and Sambro.
Today these picturesque fishing communities are also home to thriving craft and artisan communities.

Shutterbugs should allow plenty of time to snap the coastal colour in the tiny villages that dot the route. Here you will learn of shipwrecks, lighthouses, old churches and the lives of those who settled here.

Booking hotel in Courtyard by Marriott Halifax

Reserve a table for a perfect dining experience in Shuck Seafood Restaurant located in Courtyard Hotel. Taking great care to obtain environmentally friendly products and ingredients, Courtyard Hotel local supplier Afishionado Fishmongers, supplies the bulk of the fresh seafood. From steak to seafood, to classic ribs, enjoyment is guaranteed! Certified by Oceanwise

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HONOLULU, HAWAII – For most visitors, Honolulu is the first and for many the only destination they go to in Hawaii.The capital of the state on the south coast of Oahu, the third largest island in the archipelago, is a modern metropolis that, with almost 380,000 inhabitants and a good 900,000 people in the larger area, is even considered the largest city in the Pacific. Imagine a city rising out of the Pacific Ocean and you’ve got Honolulu. The business, political and cultural center of the Hawaiian Islands, Honolulu is a charismatic island disguised as a bustling metropolis.

Iolani Palace is the only royal palace on American soil. Built in a style its architects deemed ”American Florentine”, the palace was completed in 1882, after three years and $350 000 under King Kalakaua’s reign. The oldest Western-style structures in Hawaii, the Mission Houses comprise a fascinating museum complex that preserves the 19th century homes of the missionaries who lived, prayed and wrote in them.

The State Capitol Building was designed to suggest Hawaii’s volcanic and oceanic origins with its high flaring support pillars, which are said to represent royal palms. Inside the building’s offices, paneling is made of koa, giving the building a uniquely Hawaiian touch.

The dream destination for millions of beach holidaymakers is also a lively, modern city.

Despite high-rise buildings and beach hustle and bustle, Waikiki offers the ideal introduction to Hawaii. Waikiki, this resounding, glamorous seaside with its white sandy beaches and shimmering turquoise waters is located in the suburb of Honolulu. For a few days visit you’ll notice that the street activity is entertaining, and being close to the city doesn’t make things harder—in fact, it adds diversity to the occasion.
If you look closely, the elements of the ancient Kingdom of Hawaii mix very attractively with those of a modern city at the intersection of Asia and America. And don’t forget the lush tropical vegetation that gives the city its exotic wreath of flowers.

Honolulu means protected book, and it was the large harbor book on the western edge of today’s downtown that gave rise to a metropolis where once only a few huts of the Hawaiian island king stood.

The modern history of Honolulu began around 200 years ago, when Kamehameha I attacked the island in 1795 and, as the legend goes, sent the defending warriors plunging into defeat over the steep Nuuanu Pali Cliffs. He later ruled his unified island kingdom from Waikiki.
Soon, trading ships and whalers entered the nearby bay, the first white people settled, and a settlement arose that eventually became the capital of Hawaii in 1845. Since then things have been steadily improving. The name Oahu means gathering place, and this particularly applies to the island’s only city, Honolulu.

The immigrants came from America and Europe and especially from Asia. And the ethnic groups mix in the city like rarely before, which is also shown by the origins of US President Barack Obama, who grew up here.
Honolulu’s main economic sectors are tourism and military. To the west of the city lies the large harbor area, and in the tropical green hills of the Koolau range above the city center there are well-kept residential areas.

Be sure to explore historic Chinatown, where, in the late 1860s, Chinese plantation workers gathered and established new lives after paying off their indentured labour contracts. Here you’ll discover a savory blend of Asian markets, noodle shops and various marketplaces, as well as temples, gardens and galleries.

The tourist hub of Honolulu and the entire Hawaiian holiday world is the eastern suburb of Waikiki, the starting point of all tours separated from the rest of the city by the Ala Wai Canal.

In Waikiki, any destination can be reached quickly on foot or with a short, inexpensive taxi ride. You can easily get to downtown Honolulu with the city bus or with the Waikiki Trolley, an original ride that runs between all the important attractions every 15 minutes. In Waikiki itself, the sights are few and far between. Hotels and shops are so crowded on the main streets, Kalakaua Avenue and Kuhio Avenue, that there is hardly any space for anything else. Nevertheless, a stroll through the International Marketplace is a must as well as along the recently renovated beach promenade on Kuhio Beach. Almost every evening different dance groups perform here at the Hula Mound, free of charge and very casual.
In the 1 km large, well-kept Kapiolani Park on the east end of Waikiki are the Honolulu Zoo and the small but extremely interesting Waikiki Aquarium, which clearly shows life in the Hawaiian waters. Rare Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles and traveling clams can also be seen here.

Sports, especially water sports, have been a natural part of life in Hawaii since Polynesian times. Going for a quick swim in the morning and spending an hour on the surfboard in the waves in the evening is just part of the routine for the locals.
The eternally sunny warm climate, the diverse nature and the ocean breeze, should encourage visitors to stay day more an admire the perfect sport conditions to the fullest.

The infrastructure for active vacationers is excellent, many rental shops rent kayaks, snorkeling equipment and surfboards and also provide good tips for the respective region. Organized tours can usually be booked on site at short notice.

Among many tours that can be booked here we are recommending a Thrilling Zipline fun Adventure by which Maui is well known.
Promising the adventure of soaring like a bird through a natural habitat, zip-line rides have become popular in the adventure tourism trade of Maui. And as ecotourism or green tourism becomes a more sought out way to spend vacations, ziplining has become one of the fastest growing Eco- friendly activities throughout the world. On Maui, adventure seekers can choose from several different operators. So whether its zipline, zip-line or zip line, you’re sure to have fun time. Just wear your closed toe shoes and dont forget to take your camera with you. One of the first zipline operators in Maui Skyline Eco Adventures has earned many accolades, most notably #1 for its Kaanapali Maui Zipline Tour. The new Zip products that have been introduced are Zip n’ Dip Tour and Zip n’ Splash Tour.

Pi’holo Ranch Zipline is a four – line zipline tour that offers almost two hours of thrilling fun as adventure seekers soar over trees, gulches and green ranchland on the slopes of Haleakala.
While zipline operators have sprouted across the island, only Maui zipline allows kids as young as 5 years old to experience the same adrenaline rush as their parents. Zip over the lush landscape of Maui Tropical plantation, and take in the bird’s eye view of swaying palm fronds and the majestic Haleakala in the distance.
By the Kapalua Ziplines you can enjoy aerial view of tropical forests, pineapple fields and a 50 foot waterfall. With nearly two miles of parallel zipping, Kapalua’s zipline course is one of the country’s largest.

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Fast Facts 

Climate: Mediterranean, with mild, rainy winters and hot, sunny summers. The daily average temperature ranges from 9.5 °C (49 °F) in January to 27 °C (80.5 °F) in August

Currency: Euro

Languages: Greek, Macedonian, Albanian, English, German

Wardrobe: Wear light clothing to combat the intense summer heat. Lem Lem dresses, shorts, and kaftans are all ideal

….Nestled among Ionian Myrtles, Holm oaks, Cypress and Olive trees in between famous Sunset Bay to the south and Kassiopi Bay in the north west of ancient Epirus region, Corfu Island possess a lot of reasons and variety of facilities to stay. You can easily match it’s idyllic seafront settings and scenic parts with a scene of a best selling romantic novel.
It’s breathtaking sceneries, extraordinary architecture, rich cultural history, and fascinating beauty, welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
It is claimed to have millions of olive trees growing on it, making it the greenest island in the Mediterranean.
The island’s coastline, distinctive beaches, crystal-clear water, and excellent selection of opulent beach hotels and villas for rent guarantee that even the pickiest tourists will have a memorable vacation.

Discover the World’s best sugar sand beaches lapped by turquoise waters. Discover A standout among the Ionian isles
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CORFU, IONIAN SEA – Off the northwestern coast of the mainland, Corfu rises out of the Ionian Sea, a Greek island with Italian flair and a relative lushness that make it a rarity in the archipelago. The Venetians occupied Corfu for 400 years, encouraging the planting of oil producing olive trees and transforming the island into one of Greece’s greenest. Their architectural influence shines in Kerkyra (Corfu Town), a hive of shops and tavernas sequestered behind Italianate facades. Beyond this picturesque capital, seaside towns, bustling with bars and shops stocked with beach apparel and souvenirs, alternate with stretches of pristine coastline.

Inland, elderly women and priests in sweeping black robes inhabit small stone villages. These quiet towns hunker amid vineyards and olive goves, offering a glimpse into the lives of Corfiots off the tourist trail, although many visitors come simply to relax on sunny stretches of sand and pebble beaches beside the teal water.

Here is how to make the most of your time in Corfu. East of Kerkyra town center, boutiques selling lace shawls, textiles, gowns, and even furs line town’s twisting streets. Thanks to its olive groves, though Corfu is known for the olive-wood creations.

Shop for sculptures, bowls and utensils in Workshop by Tom, a craftsman’s studio in an alley off the main shopping boulevard of Nikiforou Theotoki. For local treats such as olives, olive oil, and kumquat liquer pop into To Paradosiako.

Further down the small narrow lane, look for the red-topped tower of Saint Spyridon church, where the remains of Corfu’s patron saint rest in an elaborate silver casket. Gleaming icons emblazoned with Spyridon and other religious figures  spill out of neighboring stores and street stalls.

Take a break from shopping at one  of the tavernas in the colonnaded arcade of the Liston, overlooking the grassy spianada. Aegli Restaurant, for instance serves a mix of Italian, Greek and Corfiot fare, such as sofrito  (veal cooked with parsley, garlic, olive oil and white wine vinegar).

A half  an hour drive northwest of Kerkyra brings you to Paleokastritsa, where cliffs pockmarked by caves embrace multiple coves. Restaurants and a small dock for organized boat trips line Agios Spyridon, one of Paleokastritsa’s most popular beaches for couples and families. It’s conceniently located just off the main road, EO Kerkiras Palaiokastritas.

Carry on northeast along the same road for more dramatic views as it ascends and stop at Belvedere Restaurant, overlooking humbacked  hills framing Platakia Beach and the Alipa marina.

 A gyro, salad, and glass of Hellas lager at the poolside bar and taverna will set you back about 20 $ view included.

Over  the centuries, the Byzantines, Italians, French and British have occupied Corfu taking advantage of its strategic position in the Ionian Sea just south of the Adriatic. To protect the  port at Kerkyra, the sixth – century Byzantines erected a fortress that became the base for a Venetian structure now known as the Old Fortress to the east, the Venetians also built the sixteenth century  New Fortress to the west. Explore shadowy passages and lofty overlooks, where you can drink in panoramic views or maybe something stronger,  as each fort houses a cafe bar.

Kerkyra’s museums offer an opportunity to dig deeper into the area’s history.

To see carvings and religious icons dating back to the fifteenth century, visit the Antivouniotissa Museum. The Museum of Asian Art houses approximately 15000 artifacts within the Palace of Saint Michael and Saint George, and the  Archaeological  Museum, famed for its sixth-century  BC Gorgon frieze, is expected  to reopen this year following a renovation.

Take a short drive to the Mon Repos Estate, now the Archaeological Museum  of Palaeopolis, which is devoted  to Corfu’s past, with ancient ruins in the gardens.Originally built as a private residence for the British Lord High Commissioner, Sir Frederick Adam, it’s famed  today as Prince Philip’s 1921 birthplace.

For sheer grandeur, head south along the east coast to Achilleion,Empress Elisabeth of Austria’s 1890 neoclassical palace.

Old Perithia, an 80-minute drive north of Kerkyra, dates to at least the fourthteenth century and remains almost unchanged since then. Just four permanent residents inhabit this lonely cluster of stone cottages on the slopes of Mount Pantokrator, Corfu’s highest peak, but it’s  experiencing a mini-renaissance with the opening of a cluster of tavernas frequented by Corfiots and tourists alike. Come for a traditional Greek lunch and a walk around this quiet ghost town to see how locals lived centuries ago.

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COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – With a population of nearly 1.5 million, Copenhagen is Scandinavia’s largest and liveliest city. It’s an appealing and largely low-rise city comprised of block after block of period 6 storey buildings. ChurchArc’teryx steeples punctuate the skyline, with only a couple of modern hotels shooting up to map the view.

While the city is filled with parks, gardens, water fountains, and squares, its most important historical and cultural treasures are still confined to a tiny region.
A cosmopolitan city, Copenhagen abounds with sightseeing and entertainment possibilities.

For music lovers and other revellers there’s an active night scene which rolls into the early hours of the Arc’Terry.

The central railway station is flanked on the west by the main hotel zone and on the east by Tivoli amusement park. Opposite the northern corner of Tivoli is Radhudspladsen, the city’s central square and main bus transit point. Stroget, the world’s longest pedestrian mall runs through the city center between Radhudspladsen and Kongens Nytorv, the square at the head of the colourful Nyhavn canal area.

Just north of the canal at Amalienborg Palace – home of the royal family since 1794, you can watch the colorful changing of the guard when the Queen is in residence. The Palace’s four nearly identical rococo mansions surround a central cobbled square and an immense statue of King Frederick V on horseback. One wing has been opened as a museum, exhibiting the Royal apartments through three generations from 1863 to 1947. Classic churches to check out are Vor Frue Kirke, the city cathedral with its famed statues of Christ and the disciples by Bertel Thorvaldsen and Vor Frelsers Kirke which has an elaborate Baroque altar and an equally elaborate carved pipe organ. For a magnificent city view, make the dizzying 400 step ascent up the church’s 95-metre spiral tower, narrowing to the point where they literally dissapear at the top.

Copenhagen’s museums include Ny Carlsberg Glypotech, which has an excellent collection of art and sculpture from the Greek, Egyptian, Ertruscan and Roman periods. The National Museum houses an extensive collection of Danish historical artifacts, ranging from the Upper Palaeolithic period to the 1840’s. However, if you like your sightseeing a little lighter, than Tivoli, a century – old amusement park is located in the city center. This tantalizing entertainment Park which dates from 1843, is delightfully varied, if horrendously expensive.

Visitors can ride the roller coaster, take aim at the shooting gallery, enjoy pantomims and concerts or simply sit and watch the crowds wander by.

Of course, a visit to Copenhagen is not complete without taking a stroll or ferry ride to see the city’s most famous icon, The Little Mermaid statue, which sits on the Waterfront 10 minutes north of the city center.

Nyhavn, long a haunt for sailors and writers including Hans Christian Andersen, is half – seedy and half- gentrified, with a line of trendy pavement cafe’s and restored gabeled townhouses. Nyhavn is an invitingly atmospheric place to break for lunch or an afternoon beer.

Nearby, Stroget has an abundance of cheap eateries, but we are talking burgers and dogs for the most part. North of Stroget, there are some good restaurants in the Latin Quarter.

Typically Danish and at the same time international and cosmopolitan, Copenhagen is also the capital of Denmark in modern and also in musical terms.
Stylish and well-equipped, nothing stands in the way of a trip to Copenhagen’s nightlife in the evening.
Live music is on the program in numerous locations. Jazz fans in particular will get their money’s worth: the first address for this style is the world-famous Jazzhus Montmartre in the Store Regnegade, which was reopened in spring 2020 as a non-profit initiative by the jazz pianist Niels Lan Doky and the entrepreneur Rune Bech.
During the day as an organic café run by the Michelin-winning team behind the restaurants Era Ora and Acquamarina, in the evening there is live jazz on the program. Musicians such as Betty Carter, Chick Corea and Abbey Lincoln can also be found at the Copenhagen Jazz House. On Fridays and Saturdays, the Jazzhouse turns into a nightclub after the concerts.
Flagships like the Copenhagen Fashion Week, which takes place twice a year, or major music events like the Copenhagen Jazz Festival or the Elektro Festival Strom attract a large international audience to the largest city in Northern Europe every year.

But even beyond such major events, Copenhagen is buzzing with life.
If you want to kick on, see street performers and hear live music, than cruise along Stroget.

North of the city center the Norrebro neighborhood has a number of clubs that attract a College-age crowd and have good bands. There are also some good’n’smoky jazz joints in Christianshavn.
Just a stroll along Stroget, the longest shopping mile in the World will make fashion hearts beat faster. Here and in the adjacent fashion streets such as Kobmagergade, Kristien Bernikows Gade, Antoningade, and Pilestrade are located flagship stores of Danish designers such as Charlotte Eskildsen or Malene Birger next to the most renowned stores of international labels and fashion chains.

The two traditional department stores Illum and Magasin du Nord invite you with its glamour and extensive selection of latest fashion promotions.

Denmark offers hotels for every taste and budget. From distinguished houses with over 100 years of history to traditional seaside hotels on the coast and modern design hotels.

Over 500 hotels are members of the Danish Hotel and Restaurant Association, which classifies hotels according to strict criteria from 1 to 5 stars. Many Danish hotels have specially designed family rooms. Especially in the summer months, many hotels offer reduced prices for holiday travelers and weekend guests. There is also an extensive range of hotel check and hotel pass systems. Most of the budget hotels are located along the west side of Central Station.

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