Category: Travel

As a world center for culture, food, and fashion, Paris excites with such well-known sites as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre. But after you’ve seen all the standard tourist spots, you can enjoy the following unique attractions of this amazing city.

Museum of Fairground Arts

At the Museum of Fairground Arts, you won’t mind getting taken for a ride on an amusement attraction from 1850 to 1950. Try out the Manège vélocipédique, which puts you on a merry-go-round of bicycles that move only when everybody pedals. You can also listen to a mechanical organ from 1905. To visit, you need to reserve in advance for an English-speaking tour unless you’re coming for the self-guided tours during European Heritage Days in September and the Festival of the Marvelous during the last week of December.

Hidden Vineyard

France is renowned for the quality of its wines and if you want a glimpse of where this ambrosia comes from, head to the back of Sacré-Coueur. Hidden among the quaint buildings and charming cobblestone streets is one of the last remaining vineyards in the city, Le Clos Montmartre. They’ve been cultivating vines here since at least 944 AD, although the history of viticulture goes back to Roman times. Most of the year, you can only spy the growth through metal grates. However, during the Festival of the Gardens at the beginning of fall, the vineyard opens to the public.

Oldest House in Paris

Given that Paris is over 2,000 years old, it’s a little surprising that its oldest house dates back only to 1407. At 51 Rue de Montmorency in the Marais, you can check out the home of an alchemist, Nicholas Flamel, who supposedly could transmute lead into gold. If the guy sounds familiar, he shows up in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. The structure also served as a home for the poor who had to pray to stay. You can check out the much-renovated interior, which is now a Michelin-starred bistro called Auberge Nicolas Flamel.

Paris Beach

Did you know that Paris has a lively beach scene that includes sunbathing by the sparkling waters of the Seine? But only during July and August during the Paris Plages. Sand has been carted into several locations by the river since 2022 to comfort city dwellers who could not travel to the seaside. The sand, sun umbrellas, palm trees, and deck chairs are free to visit. However, you’re not in the Cote d’Azur, so no topless sunbathing, and don’t even think about jumping into the water.

Catacombs

The creep factor is high, but so is the history of the Catacombs, a collection of skulls and bones belonging to six or seven million former city residents. You’ll only get to see a small portion of the Denfert-Rochereau Ossuary. It appeared under the city in the 18^th century when the deceased were discretely transferred from overcrowded cemeteries above-ground to the tunnels of former quarries. Buy your tickets ahead of time or you’ll have to wait in line for over an hour. Leave your luggage at home. They’re not allowed on the premises and there are no storage lockers.

Rome is filled with many world-famous tourist attractions, including the Colosseum, the Forum, and the Trevi Fountain. But it is also home to many lesser-known but unique attractions, such as the fab five listed below: 

Enjoy a Spirited Adventure in the Capuchin Crypt

If you have a taste for the macabre, you’ll want to put the Capuchin Crypt on your itinerary. Located under the church of Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini, this crypt contains the skeletal and mummified remains of approximately 3,700 Capuchin friars. The bones and skulls of these friars have been used to “decorate” the six chambers of the crypt, which is also sometimes referred to — for obvious reasons — as the Bone Chapel.   

Visit the Largo di Torre Argentina  

This archeological site contains the remains of four different temples, as well as the Theatre of Pompey, which is where Julius Caesar was betrayed and murdered by a group of Roman senators on the Ides of March. Surprisingly, the Largo di Torre Argentina is typically overlooked by tourists — which is actually a testament to the fact that Rome has so many famous attractions that even one as historically important as this can just fade into the background. On an interesting side note, the Largo di Torre Argentina is also home to a popular cat sanctuary.   

Check Out Trastevere 

Trastevere is a lively Medieval neighborhood known for being home to some of the best trattorias and pubs in Rome. Lively chatter fills the air, and street artists entertain the crowds. Although Trastevere has long been popular with locals, it has also become increasingly popular with tourists. If you’ll be visiting Rome during the summer months, make sure to walk down the steps to the walkway that runs alongside the Tiber River. That’s where you’ll find the Lungo iL Tevere festival with its many artists, vendors, and dining options. 

Admire the Pyramid of Cestius

While viewing a pyramid may not be the first thing you think about doing while in Rome, the Eternal City does have one. Called the Pyramid of Cestius, this structure was built as a tomb for an important Roman named Gaius Cestius around 18-12 BC. The 120-foot-tall building is the only Egyptian-style pyramid remaining in Rome today. For many years, the Pyramid of Cestius’ interior was closed to visitors. But that changed in 2015. Now, the pyramid, which is located across from the Pyramid Train Station, is open every second and fourth Saturday each month for visitors, who must make arrangements in advance.

Stroll through the Campo de’ Fiori

Campo de’ Fiori is arguably Rome’s most famous open-air market. Established in 1869, this outdoor market is open from Monday to Saturday, from approximately 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Here, you’ll find vendors selling a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and cheeses, as well as clothing and crafts. Along the edges of the market and on the nearby streets, you’ll also find shops selling baked goods, sandwiches, and some of the best cured meats and cheeses in Rome. A few of these shops have actually been in business for 100 or so years. 

 

If you regularly read travel blogs or scan your world map, wondering if you’ll ever be able to afford to see the world in person, you’re in for a terrific surprise! You can travel to all your ideal destinations, which isn’t as difficult as you might imagine.

Traveling without a lot of money takes some planning, budgeting, and compromise, but you will savor every moment of it. 

Here are five low-budget ways to travel the world and have the adventure of a lifetime.  

1. Book Bargain Airfares 

One of the highest upfront costs for travel is airfare, especially if you are planning an overseas adventure. However, you might not want to drive across the country either, so you’ll need to think about finding the best air travel fees in either case. 

Here are some tips for finding the best bargains on airfare: 

• Shop for your airline tickets on the weekends.
• Avoid traveling on Sunday or Monday since those are prime days for return trips home. 
• Buy tickets before your trip, but don’t plan too far ahead. The recommended time to buy your tickets ahead of travel is around 70 days. 
• Pack lightly and strategically to avoid baggage fees.

2. Organize a Group Tour

Whether you and your friends want to visit Europe or find a Facebook group of people planning a group vacation, this is a great route. A group tour is cheap because travel agents often offer significant group discounts. If you take this route, you’ll need to do the administrative duties of planning the trip, then everyone can go on their separate adventures during the trip.

3. Trade Labor for Accommodation 

While this works most easily for domestic travel, you can probably work out something for overseas travel too. Work with the owner of establishments like a ranch, farm, hotel, or beach or ski resort to come up with a mutually agreeable arrangement that allows you to work for them, stay in their lodgings, and enjoy the environment. 

4. Fundraise for a Volunteer Expedition

There are many ways you can volunteer your time across the country or worldwide. Many volunteer travelers seek missions for wildlife conservation, water irrigation projects, or teaching English. If your passion is helping others, there is no shame in fundraising for your trip. Use a platform like Go Fund Me, and advertise your mission on the social media platform where you have the most engagement, sharing your enthusiasm for your mission, how you plan to help, and what their support would mean to you. 

5. House Sit or Pet Sit

People love their houses and their pets, and many will be happy to invite a trustworthy guest to tend to them. Become a member of websites like TrustedHousesitters.com, MindMyHouse.com, and HouseCarers.com to undergo a background check and other vetting processes and verify the other parties’ information. 

As you can see, enjoying low budget travel takes time and creativity. It’ll all be worth it when you arrive at your ideal destination.

The View From the Edge

Move over, Empire State Building, One World Observatory, and Top of the Rock. There’s a new observation deck in town, called the Edge. Take the elevator in a Hudson Yards skyscraper up to the 100th floor (gulp), step outside, and you’ll be treated to a magical view extending all the way out to the horizon.

There’s even a section where the floor is made of clear glass, so you can look straight down, if you dare, to the street that is more than 1,100 feet below.

The Winding Paths of Central Park

When you’re back down on solid ground, don’t miss the chance to explore Central Park. The park is gorgeous in every season. Best of all, it is always surprising. When you walk along its winding paths, you never know what you will encounter around the next curve.

You might run into a roller skating party, a symphony concert, a waterfall, an a capella group, people blowing giant soap bubbles, a wedding party posing for photographs, an unexpected lake, swing dancers, or kite flyers. 

You might see someone famous. You may choose to have your portrait done. You could ride a horse, rent a bike, row a boat, or sit in a gondola and let someone else do the work. 

The Statue of Liberty

Whether or not you choose to climb up its steps (there are 215 to the top of the pedestal and another 162 to get to the crown), seeing the Statue of Living up close and in person is an experience unlike any other. 

Your ferry ticket will also take you to the nearby Ellis Island, the portal to the U.S. for more than 12 million immigrants. The old buildings now contain exhibits that recreate and explain the island’s activity from the late 1800s to the middle of the 20th century. 

Pro tip: Buy your tickets in advance online or in person at the ticket booth at the pier. Don’t buy tickets from people on the street – that’s a known scam.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (often called “the Met,” but don’t confuse it with the opera house!) houses a huge collection. It is, in fact, the largest art museum in the Western Hemisphere. 

Fashionistas won’t want to miss the special shows put on by the Costume Institute, where the clothing-as-art pieces exhibited range from something you might consider wearing to something that makes you go “wow” or “huh?” 

You might want to check out the Egyptian mummies, the medieval armor, the ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, or the exhibits dedicated to Asian, Islamic, African, European, and American art.

Walk or Bike Over the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is as breathtaking today as it was when it opened in 1883. It’s a pleasant walk or ride, even better now that bicycles and pedestrians each have their own lanes. When you get to the Brooklyn side, consider going down to the Brooklyn Bridge Park for spectacular views of lower Manhattan right across the river.

Many travelers set their sights on London or Bristol when visiting Britain, but you might want to include Newcastle upon Tyne in your itinerary. Most commonly referred to as simply Newcastle, this city might be one of Britain’s most iconic cities. 

Famous for its people’s Geordie dialect, the city’s industrial heritage, popular nightlife, and the eponymous and internationally loved brown ale, there are even more unique attractions for you to experience.

Here are five attractions in Newcastle upon Tyne you won’t want to miss.

1. Victoria Tunnel 

Constructed in the 19th century, the Victoria Tunnel was originally built as a waggonway under Newcastle to transport coal from the Tyne River to the Town Moor between 1842 and the 1860s. During the Second World War, the Tunnel became a welcome air raid shelter to protect area citizens. 

Newcastle now welcomes guests to visit the once-forgotten waggonway where you can enjoy an immersive experience with sonic and visual effects. 

2. Grey’s Monument 

Located in the center of town at Grey and Grainger Streets, a visit to Newcastle upon Tyne wouldn’t feel right without stopping by Grey’s Monument. This iconic monument is one of Newcastle’s best-known and cherished landmarks. You can see the evidence of that by how much daily activity and sightseeing goes on while you’re there. It’s also easy to spot from nearly anywhere in the city, so it’s a great spot to set up for meeting friends and family after you’ve done some exploring on your own. 

Like the famous Earl Grey tea, the monument was constructed in 1837, in part, to eponymously honor the local politician who later became prime minister from 1830-1834. It is also important because it commemorated the Reform Act of 1832, which stamped out corruption and led to increased voting eligibility.

3. The Quayside

You can visit The Quayside on either side of the River Tyne. Both sides of the river allow you to enjoy some of the city’s best sightseeing, bike riding, and relaxed strolls before dinner and drinks at one of the many restaurants and pubs. 

4. Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd

If you’re like many people who daydream about a visit to the English countryside, you’ll want to see an authentic farm filled with sheep, goats, pigs, and Shetland ponies. You can see all those beautiful creatures and learn more about the area’s approach to local agriculture at Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd. During your visit, you can buy some wholesome goodies like eggs and dairy products at the community farm. 

5. Jesmond Dene Park 

Tucked away in the suburbs of Newcastle upon Tyne, Jesmond Dene Park is nestled in a steep, wooded valley that is perfect for a quiet hike or stroll and a chance to see local wildlife in their natural and undisturbed environment. While visiting, you can also stop by Pet’s Corner to see sheep, rabbits, and peacocks, or plan to take a guided tour to see the local birds or an open-air theater production.

These are only a few beautiful attractions you’ll find in the quaint city of Newcastle upon Tyne. 

Mexico City is one of the earliest metropolises in North America. It is vibrant and bustling with beautiful attractions celebrating its intricate history and rich culture, drawing enthusiastic tourists from all over the world. 

You might wonder where to start your adventures in this stunning city, so we would like to recommend five unique attractions that reveal the deep and enduring magic of Mexico City that will leave you wanting more.

1. Palacio Nacional 

The Palacio Nacional, or the National Palace, serves as Mexico’s federal branch of government, housing the president’s office and the Federal Treasury. One of the main attractions at this site is the Biblioteca Miguel Lerdo de Tejada, which is one of the most well-known libraries in Mexico. The walls in the library are filled with stunning, colorful murals and include many works by Mexico’s beloved Diego Rivera. 

2. Fuente de Tláloc in Chapultepec Park 

To refer to the Fuente de Tláloc as a mere sculpture is an understatement. The massive tiled fountain is another work by Mexico’s Diego Rivera that encapsulates the essence of the Mexican people’s spirit. Located deep in the Bosque de Chapultepec, or Chapultepec Forest, Rivera was inspired to craft this piece because of his work to improve Mexico City’s infrastructure, starting with the municipal water system. The tiled sculpture is named for the god of rain, Tláloc, and spans a pool that spreads 100 feet wide. 

3. Templo Mayor

The Templo Mayor, or Main Temple in the Aztec city of Tenochtitlan, is a must-see attraction. While the original temple was razed and replaced by a cathedral in the 16th century during the Spanish conquest, the haunting and awe-inspiring ruins remain. You can find the Templo Mayor in the Centro Histórico, surrounded by the modern streets and buildings of Mexico City. Fortunately, the site features a well-organized museum to help fill out the details, using the existing ruins as a powerful launch point for your imagination to take over and visualize the ancient Aztec civilization in its full glory.

4. Xochimilco – The Floating Gardens of Mexico City

While it’s wonderful to see the ruins and museums of Mexico City, sometimes you need to indulge in some serious nature, and Xochimilco will hit the spot. In Aztec, Xochimilco translates to “place of the flowers,” but it has become more commonly and lovingly known as the Floating Gardens. Here in this tranquil setting, you can sit back and relax while gently gliding along the water on a trajinera, also called a chalupa, a flower-colored boat similar to a Venetian gondola. You can enjoy the sights and sounds of the Aztec-created canals, small islands, and surrounding forest land. During your trip, you can enjoy island stops, you can buy food, drinks, and hand-crafted trinkets at organic farms and local shops.

5. Chapultepec Castle

If you want to visit a royal castle in North America, this is your only option, and you’ll love Chapultepec Castle. Besides the castle’s beauty, you’ll get to see sweeping views of Mexico City and the surrounding countryside from this hilltop site. Once you focus on the castle, you’ll see the exquisite 18th-century architecture, luxurious castle rooms, black and white tiled floors, and stained-glass windows. 

Hopefully, these unique attractions will help launch your adventures in Mexico City, inspiring many more. 

Germany is magical. The Germans are very nice people who speak English, keep their cities impeccably clean, and work and play very hard. Between northern Germany, southern Germany, and the eastern part of the country, you’ll see some pretty stark cultural differences, but the people will always be welcoming.

Really getting to know Germany is a fantastic experience, and checking out the different cities and areas of the country will be a trip you’ll never forget. There are so many ways to get to know the real Germany, but here are five that will make your experience unforgettable, all from a Germany pro.

Get on the Autobahn

It is famous for a reason, there is no other experience in a car like it. The Autobahn is the smoothest, most technologically advanced roadway in the world. Of course, it also has those famous sections with no speed limit.

It can be a genuinely harrowing experience for many tourists the first time they do 120mph with Porsche’s lights flashing for them to move over. Riding with a German accustomed to it is encouraged. If you do go for it, know that the rules are stringent and the tickets can be very large, so know proper Autobahn etiquette.

Eat German Food Everywhere

German food isn’t common in the U.S., but it is delicious. Just as the culture can be very different by geography, so is the food. Northern German food is tremendously different from Bavarian food, and more of the Polish/Slavic impact can be tasted in the east. It is fresh and tremendous, and there are over 360 types of incredible bread.

Shop on the Fussgangerzone

German cities have walking areas with no cars allowed. They are called Fussgangerzones and are surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll see plenty of street performers and small boutiques. These are just fun areas to take a walk on cobblestone streets and take in the sites and sounds of the city.

Go midday for the most action as Germany has strict laws about how late shops can be open. Those laws are in place to protect small merchants from large chains that can afford to run all hours. Also, Germans like their evenings and Sundays reserved for family and entertainment.

Beer!

Germans are famous for beer and drink more than other people. Beer is so important that it is classified as a life staple and therefore not taxable.

German beer doesn’t come in the insane varieties one will find in the U.S. due to ancient purity laws that strictly limit brewing to a few ingredients to ensure this sacred drink is made right. Regardless of the much-limited selection of types, it’s delicious.

These tips aren’t about where to go and the landmarks to visit so much as providing the little things that help you experience the real Germany. A visit to the great German cities and beautiful countryside will be one of the most enjoyable experiences of your life.

Holidays mean time to travel, and that shouldn’t stop just because you have a couple of young kids. Although bringing children along may put an end to the spontaneity you previously enjoyed, there are several things to make the experience better for everyone. 

Top Five Rules to Make Traveling With Young Children Easier and More Fun

Number 5: Let Kids Pack a Fun Bag

Most children have a favorite toy or stuffed animal that makes them feel safe and secure. Leaving these items at home is a surefire way for the vacation to become an instant disaster. Help prevent temper tantrums later by allowing your children to pack a small bag of whatever they want. Once the bag is full, write out a list of what’s in it and bring it with you, so you can be sure you pack everything up when it is time to go home. 

Number 4: Pack Familiar Food 

If your children are picky about what they eat, make sure to bring along their favorite food and snacks just in case they can’t find anything they want to eat. Taking this extra step is particularly important while traveling to your destination since you will most likely find something your kids will enjoy once you arrive. However, if you have an infant, you can make things a lot easier by bringing enough formula and baby food to last the entire time you are away. 

Number 3: Plan Kid-Friendly Activities

Before leaving on vacation, check out what kid-friendly activities your destination offers. If you are visiting a resort or cruise ship that has a kid’s club, you may want to book at least a day or two for your young children to allow you to have some free time. But always save a couple of days to do things as a family to create the memories you will treasure for years to come!

Number 2: Be Early and Flexible

Things always seem to take longer when there is a kid with you. From extra trips to the bathroom to dealing with the inevitable tantrums, you need to schedule extra time for even the most basic tasks. If your travels include a connection, make sure to give yourself a time cushion since it is better to spend an extra hour or two in the airport than to miss your flight for an unexpected delay. 

Number 1: Don’t Disrupt the Schedule

Most people, especially kids, do better when they stick to a daily schedule. Try to ensure that your kids are eating and sleeping at around the same time as they do when they are at home. This can be a big challenge when visiting a new time zone, so you may want to put off international travel until they are a bit older. Arranging a babysitter once you reach your destination is an excellent way for your children to stick to their schedule without you needing to sacrifice your fun. 

Traveling with kids can be a nightmare for even the most close-knit families, but following these tips will improve the likelihood of having a great vacation. 

 

 

 

You might have dreamed of visiting Edinburgh, imagining what it would be like to walk through castles or take a day trip to Loch Ness, but there is so much more to see and experience in Scotland’s hilly capital city. 

Let’s explore five unique attractions to find the magic of Edinburgh in time for your visit. 

1. Royal Mile

Touted as a “Scot’s mile long,” the Royal Mile connects two royal residences, the Castle and the Palace of Holyrood House. It is also a main thoroughfare throughout the city and is the home to old and new parliaments, a cathedral and churches, law courts, and several tourist attractions, such as restaurants, pubs, cafes, and shops. 

2. Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat 

The 640-acre Holyrood Park lies in the heart of Edinburgh, just off the path from the city’s Royal Mile, next to Holyrood Palace. The main attraction of Holryood Park is Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano and the highest point in the park. It sits 823 feet above sea level, offering premier views of Edinburgh. The trip up and down the hill is lovely, too, filled with diverse flora. 

3. Edinburgh Castle 

Edinburgh Castle is probably number one on everyone’s list of places to visit, for a good reason. It stands on Castle Rock, a volcanic plug humans have inhabited since the Iron Age. The castle has served as a military fortress, prison of war, and royal residence over the centuries.

During visits to Edinburgh Castle, you might get the chance to hear the famous One O’Clock Salute from Half Moon Battery, which is the firing of a cannon to remember the tradition of assisting ships to synchronize their clocks. Additional highlights include seeing the Scottish National War Memorial, the Crown Jewels, and the National Work Museum. 

4. Mary King’s Close

Mary King’s Close is Edinburgh’s underground street, buried beneath and running under the famous Royal Mile. This underground street features a series of abandoned homes and alleyways, lying below the bustling city streets since the 17th century. Mary King’s Close is a place frozen in time, and tours reflect that, since there are no actors, placards, or recreations. You see it as it was when it was last inhabited. With all the humidity and organic eeriness, it’s a haunted tour based on ambiance alone. Be careful if you have claustrophobia or fear of dark and unfamiliar spaces. 

5. Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura is an unusual visual arts gallery and Edinburgh’s oldest tourist attraction, established in 1835. Focusing on optical illusions, you can also experience several hands-on activities, such as going through a mirror maze and an Ames room filled with distorting images. Another popular activity is the vortex tunnel, which provokes a sense of imbalance while completely safe and stable. Finally, you can climb to the roof to get a bird’s eye view of the city using free telescopes. 

These are only a few unique and magical things you can see and do in Edinburgh. 

So you’re headed “Down Under” and you want to experience New Zealand like the locals do?  We’ve got you covered with all the must-see things to see and do on your trip.

Read on for a roundup of five authentic activities to add to your New Zealand itinerary.

1. Experience a Haka

Many people see their first haka at an All Blacks rugby game. However, there are many places to witness this ancient Maori war dance ritual, which embodies the passion and power of the vibrant indigenous people of New Zealand.

Depending on the venue, you may even have the chance to participate in one—a true “bucket list” experience.

2. Nosh on New Zealand Lamb

New Zealand is known all over the planet for its tender and succulent lamb. However, this is just one example of the quintessential cuisine awaiting you in New Zealand. Kiwis also love their crayfish, mussels, fish and chips, “barbie,” mince pies, and artisan cheese.

And make sure to wash it down with a local Sauvignon Blanc or other selection from one of New Zealand’s world-class wine regions.

3. Hit the Road

New Zealand boasts some truly spectacular scenery. One of the best ways to take it all in like a local? If you don’t have access to a car, New Zealand is home to a vast intercity bus system stretching from the North to the South Island.

From bustling metropolises like Auckland and Wellington to off-the-beaten destinations like Rotorua and Wanaka, Kiwis know that there’s no adventure quite like a good, old-fashioned road trip.

4. Take the Ferry

While New Zealand’s roadways have abundant allures, your trip to New Zealand won’t be complete without taking the ferry. Many locals travel between the North and South Island via ferry.

While both the Bluebridge and the Interislander ferries will hook you up with everything from free Wi-Fi to refreshments for the 3.5-hour trip, you may not need them. You’ll be too busy taking in the breathtaking views of the Marlborough Sounds islands as you coast through the Cook Straight.

5. Catch Sight of a Kiwi

New Zealand is renowned for its wildlife, and its iconic wild kiwi birds are regarded as a national treasure. They’re also incredibly elusive.

However, there are some places where you’re more likely to see one of these endangered flightless birds for yourself—either in the wild or at a reserve. These include Stewart Island, Kiwi Birdlife Park, and the Franz Josef Wildlife Centre.