Category: Europe (Page 2 of 2)

The northern lights are one of a few different types of astronomical phenomena called polar lights. Also known as aurora borealis, the bright lights of the aurora are actually collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun entering the atmosphere of the earth.

Because the phenomena occur near the magnetic poles, one of the best places to watch the lights is over the northern coast of Norway. However, understandably there is a lot of confusion surrounding how best to set off in search of the northern lights in Norway. Talking about magnetic poles, I have often wondered about weird scientific questions. Not to forget that my friends are also like that. I say that because one of my friends once asked me, “can Earth’s magnetic poles flip?” I do not remember if I gave him an answer but I surely remember taking inspiration from him for asking such weird questions.

Any, enough of the weird stuff, let us now discover 3 important things to keep in mind before booking a trip to Norway to see the northern lights.

1. Always Travel During the Best Time of Year to See the Northern Lights

Generally speaking, if you want to see the northern lights in Norway then planning your trip for the middle of summer, when the sun never sets, should be avoided at all costs. That being said, the best time to see the northern lights is not necessarily at the darkest time of the year either.

Essentially, the midnight sun of the Arctic Circle makes it impossible to see the lights during the summer, but the longer darker winter nights are usually more conducive to viewing the lights in action.

In November, December, and January, the weather in Norway can be relentless and unwelcoming so therefore the months of September, October, February, and March are much more inviting. Although the weather cannot be predicted with 100% accuracy, if you want to optimize your chances of seeing the lights, visiting during these months is strongly recommended.

Be sure to lookout through the night to maximize your opportunity to witness the lights in person. You might even want to set an alarm on the hour, every hour, after dusk as a reminder to look outside. Some hotels even offer an aurora wake-up service so that you can avoid missing out.

2. Pick Your Location Carefully

Although it might be tempting to head as far north as possible in search of the northern lights, in reality, it is possible to miss the lights entirely by staying somewhere too north. Consequently, there are a few prime spots for seeing the northern lights in Norway.

Tromsø, lovingly referred to as ‘the capital of the Arctic’, is often cited as one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights. This small city is surrounded by spectacular fjords and craggy peaks that beautifully encapsulate the polar atmosphere.

Additionally, Kirkenes, the Lofoten Islands, the North Cape (Nordkapp), and Svalbard, should also make your shortlist of potential destinations and are all unique settings to see the lights up close and personal.

Norway has a relatively small population in comparison to its size and therefore the northern lights cannot be seen from everywhere in the country. Heading north of the Arctic Circle is vital if you want a good chance of seeing the lights.

That being said, you might even want to consider staying in accommodation that is at a distance from where you actually want to see the lights. Light pollution can seriously hamper your views of the skies, and therefore being able to head out to the countryside away from towns, cities, and large resorts enables you to enjoy the lights unhindered by artificial light.

3. Always Book Other Activities and Excursions

Unfortunately, even if you follow all the advice and guidance above there are no guarantees that you will get to see the northern lights. You might simply be in the wrong place at the wrong time. To avoid setting yourself up for disappointment it is therefore vital that you fill your days with other activities so that you can still make memories that will last a lifetime.

Besides, it is no secret that staying in the north for as long as possible greatly increases your chances of witnessing the magic of the lights for yourself. Most travellers find that 4 days up to a week is the optimal amount of time if you want to enjoy a leisurely trip to Norway.

The Arctic Circle has a lot to offer for nature and history lovers besides the lights, including dog sledding, winter sports, whale watching, and tours of Norway’s Viking past, so be sure to schedule a mixture of day-time and night-time activities to experience the local culture and to keep yourself busy.

Ultimately, it is undeniable that the aurora borealis is one of the most extraordinary sights in the world. Above all, by planning your trip to Norway carefully, you should be able to witness the wonders of the northern lights while also enjoying an enriching and revitalizing experience that enables you to soak up the Norwegian culture and lifestyle.

No trip to the capital city of the UK and England would be complete without checking out some of the most popular attractions in London. As one of the most diverse cities in the world, London has a rich history and is home to some of the most fascinating cultural experiences you could ever wish for.

London is divided into distinctive areas in the North, West, South, and East, including the tourist hub of Central London of course, so there is always something new to see and do in this amazing city. So, let us discover 6 of the best art, entertainment, shopping, dining, and historical sights that London has to offer.

1. The London Eye

 

Also known as the Millennium Wheel, the London Eye is a giant cantilevered observation wheel that can be found on the South Bank of the River Thames. A ride on the London Eye enables visitors to soak in the sights of the city and make memories that will last a lifetime. On a clear day, you can see up to 40 kilometres in all directions. The London Eye is comprised of 32 capsules, with each one representative of the 32 london boroughs. Just remember to always book your tickets ahead of your visit as the queues for this major attraction can be incredibly busy during peak times.

 

2. Hyde Park

 

Hyde Park is the largest of four Royal Parks that make a chain from the entrance of Kensington Palace through to Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park, via Hyde Park Corner and Green Park past the main entrance to Buckingham Palace. It is one of the largest parks in London and has a huge historical significance. Throughout the years it has hosted several protests and demonstrations and the famous Speaker’s Corner is still used for this purpose today. Within Hyde Park, there are several memorial features and two bodies of water including the Serpentine which is perfect for paddle-boating, bird watching, and relaxing.

 

3. Harrods

 

Harrods, on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, is one of the most famous department stores in the world. Since it first opened its doors in 1824, Harrods has established itself as the place to be for the elite and super-rich. Each hall has its own theme such as the Egyptian style fashion hall where you can find the latest clothing and accessories from the world’s best fashion houses and designers. The iconic Harrods food hall also needs to be seen to be believed, with exciting and indulgent sweet and savoury goods around every corner. Visiting London during the holiday season? If so, the Christmas displays at Harrods are unmissable.

 

4. The National Gallery

 

London is the perfect place for art lovers and with so many unique galleries to choose from, finding just one can seem like an impossible task. However, if you only have time to visit one art gallery on your trip, the National Gallery has everything that you could possibly need. First opened in 1824, it is now visited by an estimated 6 million people each year. Featuring work by da Vinci, van Gogh, and Botticelli, the National Gallery is always adding to its displays and archives and admission is totally free. With regularly revolving exhibitions and talks from some of the leading names from the art history sphere, if you are looking for creative inspiration, then a relaxing stroll around this one of a kind gallery absolutely must make it on to your itinerary.

 

5. Soho

 

Soho is one of the most popular nightlife spots in the city. Not only is Soho considered the centre of the city’s LGBTQ+ community, but it also has a wide variety of theatres, jazz bars, and restaurants to explore. A trip to Soho in the daytime can also be just as rewarding, with music shops, small independent cafes, and boutiques all filled with unique merchandise and refreshments. At the nearby London Palladium theatre, you can even catch resident shows and concerts. Past productions have included Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The King and I, and The Wizard of Oz.

 

6. Buckingham Palace

 

Buckingham Palace has been home to the British Royal Family since 1837. With 775 rooms and the largest private garden in the capital, this London landmark is an unforgettable sight to see. To this day, Buckingham Palace is used as a working building for the constitutional monarch of the UK and serves as a venue for royal events and ceremonies including entertaining foreign Head of States and celebrating achievements. From the outside, you can watch the Changing of the Guard, and then some of the interior of the palace is also open to visitors during the summer months and during December, January, and Easter.

Ultimately, it is undeniable that London is a vibrant metropolis with something new to see each and every day. Above all, we have only scratched the surface of some of the wonderful sights of this bustling and captivating city. Where will you be visiting on your next trip to London?

Being closed to Poland, I often find myself travelling across to Italy for a short summer or autumn vacation. It has almost everything that Poland misses – warm summer breezes, Italian food and motorbikes. It’s not unusual to see a Ducati often – and this brings joy to my ears every time they roar past.

Statistics show that Italy welcomed about 96 million international tourists in 2019. The country boasts beautiful landscapes, exciting culture, and delicious cuisine as well as artistic sites; it’s no surprise adventurers love the place.

The fact is, Italy is one of the most incredible destinations that you can choose for your next extended vacation or weekend getaway. There is so much in store for you; boredom is something you’ll never have to deal with.

Have you already packed everything that you need for your trip to Italy? Here are five thrilling things that you can do during your time in the country.

1. Discover Rome

As a tourist in Italy, you cannot miss exploring Rome. It is the country’s capital, known for being home to a plethora of attractions, including the famous Vatican City. I cannot promise you that you can see the entire city in a day, but I can guarantee that there are various fantastic destinations to visit.

Start with the Colosseum, which is also referred to as the Flavian Amphitheatre. It dates back to the 70-80 AD. It is one of the most beautiful structures in Italy, and it was used to hold various types of entertainment events such as gladiator tournaments. If you are enthusiastic about matters religion, see the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City before you head to the Vatican Museums, which house more than 70,000 historical art pieces.

2. Tour the Cinque Terre

You will find this picturesque coastal area in Liguria. It has five villages. Its rugged, scenic landscapes, cliffs, and hiking trails are some of the things that draw tourists to the location. If you are thinking about hiking in the area, make sure to carry appropriate hiking gear with you, inclusive of boots, backpacks, and first aid kits. A camera is worth packing if you want to capture some awesome moments while you are in the region. Sightseeing in Cinque Terre also provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the fascinating local culture.

3. Have Delicious Pizza in Naples

Naples is full of many attractions for tourists, but it is mainly famous for its tasty pizza. You will find many pizzerias serving different varieties, with Neapolitan pizza being one of the most popular. Some of the pizza restaurants that you can try out include Sorbillo, Pizzeria Gorizia, Starita, and La Masardona. It is recommended that you choose a pizzeria that is close to your location to avoid getting tired before the day is even over because of driving for endless hours.

4. Visit Sardinia’s Beaches

There is something about Sardinia’s gorgeous beaches that makes them impossible to resist. Most of them feature white powdery sand and bright blue waters. You can always enjoy walks at the shores while you marvel at the entire region’s beauty. Take advantage of your time there to interact with other tourists; you might make some great friendships.

You must note that some beaches in the region are ideal for specific tourists. For instance, Chia is convenient for families due to its magnificent views, while Spiaggia di Piscinas, which is a bit secluded, is suitable for travelers who seek solitude. This, however, does not mean that any of the beaches is strictly meant for specific individuals. If you are going to engage in watersports, observe the necessary safety measures at all times.

5. Enjoy Boat Rides on Lake Como

Lake Como is Italy’s third-largest lake, and one of Europe’s deepest ones. During your visit to Como, make sure that you take one or two boat rides on it. There, you will get to bask in the beauty of some of the most beautiful sceneries in the country. If you are with a loved one, and desire to have more fun, consider a private boat tour. There will be no other tourists present, and you can discover the lake at your own pace. Once you are done, there is no harm in touring the surrounding towns where you can try out various restaurants and even shop for gifts and other quality items at the shops.

If you have been making a list of top exciting destinations to visit, ensure that Italy is at the top. There is a lot to do there. You will treasure every second you spend in the country.

Europe is perhaps the best vacation destination in the entire world. It offers you a variety of cultures, landscapes and great people making it a trip of your lifetime. As long as you are well prepared for it, then you can expect nothing less. Part of being prepared is taking precautions by following specific safety measures. There are several things that you can do to ensure that you stay safe during your travel to Europe.

Escape Threats on the Street

Thieves have many ways to identify their victims, and you can bet that those in Europe are talented. If you are not careful, you can lose your stuff in a matter of seconds to thieves. While on the streets, be on the lookout for the following:

• Pickpockets; in major tourist destinations, pickpocketing is a common vice. Many travelers have their purses snatched, or their pockets picked. To minimize this threat, you should carry your valuables close to you. Put all your valuable items, money, credit cards, and passport, in a strong, below the belt security wallet. Avoid carrying your wallet in the back pocket and if you must wear a pouch above the belt, ensure that it is well concealed.

• Kids carrying cards; if a group of kids approaches, carrying a piece of board with some writing on it, be sure to walk away. They use the cardboard to distract you while they pick your pockets.

Maintain a Low Voice

When visiting Europe, you may want to lower your voice and try to blend in with the locals. This way, you can be less of a target for pickpocketing. This particularly applies when speaking on your mobile phone. Most people hardly realize that they are too loud when on a phone conversation to the extent of attracting attention. You will be risking your safety as you might be easily profiled.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

This applies mostly to times when you are taking pictures of landmarks. Most definitely, you are here to be awed by the scenario and capture it through photos. You can easily get carried away by the moment and forget about your surroundings. When taking pictures, ensure that all your possessions are well-secured on you.

Try to Dress Like a Local

If you are aware of the fashion and customs of the place you will be visiting, it is good that you dress like the locals or even buy small items to wear once you arrive. If you are a lady, take note of the fact that women from eastern and central Europe don’t wear shorts. To blend in, bring a skirt, and you will feel as though you belong. Also, ensure that you pack well for the season.

Ignore Offers by Strangers on the Streets

You should, by all means, avoid accepting offers for hotel accommodation, restaurants or bars, as well as currency exchange from individuals offering it on the streets or at a train station. These people are preying on unprepared or clueless travelers. It is always advisable that you read your guidebook before the trip and have an idea of where you can exchange currency, spend the night, or grab a meal. If you can’t find what you are looking for, seek help from a police officer or a respectable looking business.

Pay Attention at the ATM

Don’t let people behind you see you enter your PIN number, and avoid taking help from anyone. Europeans are generally helpful, but it is not likely that they will offer advice unless one is asked to help. So, beware of anyone offering you unsolicited help as most are scams. Be careful when choosing an ATM, the best option of course would be to look for ATM machines with atm security enclosures. However, as this is not always standard, it could be difficult to find one when you need to. In this case, make sure that when you do use an uncovered ATM machine, that you cover your pin yourself with your hand and take care of anyone standing behind you. One of the ways that they scam you is by putting a sleeve in the ATM card slot that blocks the card from being read. The scammer stands behind you as you try feeding in your PIN several times and eventually give up thinking that the machine has retained your card. Once you have left, they will retrieve the card and make withdrawals using the PIN you have provided them.

Be Less Flashy

When traveling to a new destination, it is always advisable that you dress in neutral colors rather than bold. Avoid standing out by dressing too flashy, hippy, or artsy. The airport has massive security measures in place, including random searches; you will want to avoid standing out of the crowd. You can also do away with hats and sunglasses. Dress like a local, and nobody will mark you as a tourist and prey for their scam.

Learn the Local Language

It is a good idea to learn a few local phrases before you get to your destination. The locals will appreciate your efforts in learning their language. While they will answer your questions in English, they will open up to you quickly if you can speak a few phrases of their language. You can take with you a phrasebook or a guidebook with several practical phrases.

Immerse Yourself in the Culture

Leave your home at home, and don’t expect to find every convenience and custom you are used to. You might not like the way things happen in your country of destination, but there is a reason as to why they are done that way. If you plan to drive whilst on your trip, you should familiarize yourself with the road and rules before you go (if you’re going to Iceland on your travels, Rent.is has some helpful guidance about driving there) so you have the best, and safest, experience on the road possible. Once you’re abroad, if you take the time to appreciate the new culture and just go with the flow, you will find out that there is plenty about the place(s) you are visiting that you will love. The best story you can tell about traveling is one that is filled with acceptance of the diversity of the human race and its cultures.