HomeTagsPosts tagged with "travel"

travel

Budapest is undoubtedly one of Europe's most beautiful cities, so it's easy to see why so many of us flock there for our weekend breaks and relaxing getaways.

Spend the afternoon unwinding in one of the city's famous thermal spas before strolling across the Danube and taking in some of the most beautiful architecture the continent has to offer. 

To help make the most of your trip, we've rounded up the top six hidden gems you need to check our during your next trip to the Hungarian capital. 

1. Napfényes Restaurant and Pastry Shop

One of the best vegan restaurants in the Hungarian capital, Napfényes prides itself on on preparing its menu using only vegetable ingredients. 

The welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to grab a bite after a morning of sight-seeing. 

Just LOOK at that pizza! 

2. Flipper Muzeum

If you fancy yourself a bit of a Pinball Wizard, this one's for you. 

Located in a basement under a downtown residential building in Budapest lies a museum dedicated solely to the classic arcade game. 

As well as entrance to the museum, a ticket allows visitors to play the machines as much as they'd like for an entire day. 

3. The Zugliget Chairlift

Let's face it, exploring a city on foot can be a pretty exhausting endeavour, so why not take the weight off your feet and explore the Buda Hills by a fun alternative mode of transport? 

The Zugliget Chairlift will transport you up the side of János Hill in about 15 mins, allowing you to soak in some of the best views the city has to offer. 

 

#libegő #zugliget #zugligetchairlift #budapestchairlift #budapest #hungary

A post shared by Rebecca Yam (@becky_yyl) on

4. Gelarto Rosa

An absolute must-visit for anyone lovers of unique flavours and Insta-worthy desserts.

Located in the heart of the city, Gelarto Rosa is famous for it's delectable ice-cream, lovingly arranged in the shape of a rose. 

Customers can choose up to three flavours from the parlours extensive menu, including some more unusual option such as lavender white chocolate, basil lemongrass and white fruit whiskey. 

5. Gellért Baths

Often dubbed the 'City of Spas', Budapest has more thermal water springs than any other capital in the world.

It's health and wellness properties are the reason thousands of tourists travel there every year, but with 15 public baths dotted across the city, it can be hard to decide upon the best place to dip your feet. 

The stunning Gellért Bath offer high quality relaxation in the surrounding of an elegant Art Nouveau building. 

Famous for its architecture, its landscape, and also for its spa treatments, and pampering massage therapies, it's the ideal location for anyone looking to de-stress without having to feel crowded by other tourists. 

6. Kuplung

Popular among locals and tourists alike, Kuplung is just of of the ruin bars that can be found across the capital. 

Decorated with funky lighting, upcycled material and artistic murals, Kuplung is the perfect spot for anyone looking for chiled vibes and cheap drinks. 

 

A post shared by Amer Khurshid (@amer.khurshid) on

Trending

Ever put off that dream trip because you had no-one to go with?

Well, have you ever considered going solo? 

Solo travel is becoming increasingly popular amongst young holiday-makers, and as long as you keep your wits about you, it could actually turn out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life .

Here's just some of the reasons why going it alone this summer might be the best decision you ever make:

1. You get to choose your own route

So, if you’ve ever tried to plan a holiday with your mates you know difficult picking a destination can be. This seemingly simple decision has been know to divide Whatsapp group chats and test even the strongest friendships.

You’ll never please them all, and you don’t have to.

Travelling on your own gives you the unique opportunity to go wherever you want to go and do whatever you want to do – literally.

Choose your location, plan your itinerary and visit the sites you want to see, all at your own pace and without ever having to compromise. What’s not to love?

2. It’s actually cheaper

If you don’t mind sleeping in a hostel dorm, solo travel can be super cost-effective.

Not only are you not forking out for a luxury apartment or hotel room every night, but you’re also completely in charge of your own expenses, making it much easier to stick to a budget.

The money you save can be used for those extra special activities that’ll be sure to make your friends at home even more jealous.

 

Diving into a new week Be bold and brave guys, it's gonna be a good one

A post shared by PARADOX – LAUNCHING JULY 2017 (@paradoxadventures) on

3. You’ll gain confidence

There’s nothing like being alone in a foreign country to get you out of your comfort zone.

You might not be familiar with the language or even the currency and you’ll probably cry from frustration when you try and fail to read the city's underground map, but you'll come out the other side stronger than ever. Promise!  

You’ll learn to trust your own instincts as you navigate your way through some weird and wonderful situations, which will leave you wondering, 'why didn't I do this sooner?'  

4. You’ll make friends from all over the world

Let’s face it, most of us prefer to avoid even talking to strangers let alone asking them to be our friends – but that’s exactly what you’ll need to do when travelling solo.

Don't worry though, no-one is going to think you're weird . Every hostel, museum and walking-tour will be packed with other solo travellers, who, for the most part are willing and eager to be your friend.

There’s a certain vulnerability that comes along with being a solo traveller and connecting with other people in the same situation can result in some real life-long friendships.  

5. Indulge in some glorious ‘me’ time

Solo travel can be one of the most therapeutic experiences life has to offer.

Not only will it allow you to take a step back from your daily routine, you’ll also get a chance to re-connect with yourself and enjoy all the little things you’d forgotten make you happy.

So, what are you waiting for? 

*Reminder*

Travelling alone can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it is important to stay safe.

Here's some handy tips to consider before jetting off:  

  • Leave a copy of your itinerary at home.

  • Have a portable phone charger on hand at all times.

  • When travelling in Europe be sure to carry a European Health Insurance Card. 

  • Schedule a regular check-in with someone at home.

  • Don’t keep all your money in one place.

  • Trust your gut instinct.

  • Don't do anything abroad that you would consider unsafe at home.

  • Prioritise personal safety.

Trending

If you are looking for the perfect getaway, then you have come to the right place. 

There's a Harry Potter themed hotel in a Georgian House in London, and the kids will LOVE it. 

The hotel rooms are not cheap, but you can't really put a price on pure happiness.

A family room (Wizard Chambers) costs £309 per night and a double room (Enchanted Chambers) costs £239 per night, but seriously, it will be worth  

The hotel is in a 19th Century building with winding corridors, loads of stairs, and some secret passages and doors. 

According to the hotel's website, the family room is "created to conjure a mysterious and gothic feel, each room features faux castle details such as stained glass windows, stone walls, archways, trunks, cauldrons, four-poster beds hung with velvet curtains and an abundance of other curious artefacts."

The description continues, with "wood burning stoves, cauldrons in fireplaces and tapestries complete the look."

We reckon this would be the BEST weekend away ever, and you'll even get a free (award-winning) breakfast.

Trending

America is a country made up of some truly amazing cities, from New York to Los Angeles, there is something for everyone. 

However, I'm a massive believer in thinking sliiightly outside the box, because the USA is more than just Times Square and Hollywood. 

Last year, I visited Nashville, a vibrant and electric city in North Tennessee, and it was bloody unreal. 

From adventure to mass amounts of drinking, and everything in between, Nashville is a destination that you need to see. 

1. Honky Tonk Central

Honky Tonk Central is Nashville's latest and greatest honky tonk on world famous 'Lower Broadway' Downtown.  with 3 full stories of live music, great food and great times, Honky Tonk Central is the destination stop when in Nashville. Honestly, I misspent an embarrassing amount of my trip in this place, I even bought the tshirt (true story!) 

If you want to go out and live your best life, this is the place for you! 

Image result for honky tonk central;

2. Country Music Hall of Fame

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville is one of the world’s largest museums and research centres dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of American vernacular music. Chartered in 1964, the museum has amassed one of the world’s most extensive musical collections.

Visitors are immersed in the history and sounds of country music, its origins and traditions, and the stories and voices of many of its architects.You'll see everything from Johnny Cash's suits to Garth Brooks' guitars! Keep it country, kids. 

Image result for country music hall of fame

3. Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art 

Cheekwood is a privately funded 55-acre estate on the western edge of Nashville, Tennessee that houses the Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art. Formerly the residence of Nashville's Cheek family, the 30,000-square-foot Georgian-style mansion was opened as a museum in 1960.

Each year, Cheekwood welcomes over 250,000 annual visitors, making it one of Nashville's top cultural attractions. Visitors enjoy year-round festivals celebrating the four seasons. From 150,000 blooming bulbs in the spring to one million holiday lights in the winter, there’s always something to see at Cheekwood.

Image result for Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art

4. The Grand Ole Opry

Okay so I had the BEST night here! The Grand Ole Opry is a weekly country-music stage concert in Nashville, which was founded on November 28, 1925, by George D. Hay as a one-hour radio "barn dance". 

Dedicated to honouring country music and its history, the Opry showcases a mix of famous singers and contemporary chart-toppers performing country, bluegrass, folk, gospel, and comedic performances and skits. You'll laugh, you'll dance and you'll leave grinning ear to ear (and a little drunk tbh).

Image result for grand ole opry

5. The Johnny Cash Museum 

Am I a massive Johnny Cash fan? Yes. Did I have a little cry to myself walking around this museum? Yes.

Officially authorised by the Estate of Johnny Cash, the museum features the largest and most comprehensive collection of Johnny Cash artefacts and memorabilia in the world. State of the art exhibits, a museum gift store, coffee shop, cafe and special events make this THE Cash venue to visit. Its open every day in the heart of downtown Nashville.

The Johnny Cash Museum takes you on an in-depth journey through the Man In Black's amazing life. 

Image result for The Johnny Cash Museum

 

Trending

Some of us are just born with a desire to travel the globe, seeing amazing places and faces (and everything in between).

Well, if Wanderlust is your middle name, why not get a travel-inspired tattoo?

Image result for adventure is out there tattoos

Check out these 10 amazing tattoos, that are perfect for anyone who has a sense of adventure…

1. A plane

Image result for small travel tattoos

2. Beach travellers

3. Paper plane

4. Wanderlust

5. Travel the oceans 

6. Coordinates of your favourite place

7. Heart it up

Love to travel tattoo by Channing:

8. Map the world 

9. Adventure

Image result for adventure tattoos

10. Symbol meaning "explore"

explore glyph                                                       …:

Trending

Prague is undoubtedly one of Europe's most beautiful cities, so it's easy to see why so many of us flock there for our weekend breaks. 

Spend the afternoon walking through the streets of the old town before dancing the night away in some of Europe's most alternative clubs and bars.

We've rounded up the top five hidden gems that'll have you covered from day to night during your next trip to the Czech capital. 

1. Kavárna Místo cafe 

Located close to Prague castle, this minimalist cafe is the perfect spot to refuel during a day of sight seeing.

The quirky, contemporary menu offers some familiar options along with more daring dishes for the adventurous foodie in you.

With some of the best coffee the city has to offer, and a huge range of vegetarian and vegan options, Kavárna Místo is sure to be a crowd pleaser, no matter how picky your travel buddies may be. 

2. Naplavka Farmers Market

If you're more of a street food kind of gal, head down to the Naplavka Farmers Market.

Located close to the New Town, just beside the river, this fresh food market is a favourite with locals and tourists alike.

Soak up the atmosphere, feed the swans and enjoy a Czech beer and wine – if you figure out a more perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon, let us know 

3. Vzorkovna underground bar 

Widely referred to as Prague's most alternative pub, this unique underground bar provides a space for the artistically talented to showcase their abilities.

Everyone is welcome and crowds can vary from night to night but the general consensus of anyone who has visited is 'be ready for anything!'

Oh, there's a lovely Irish wolfhound that calls this place home. 

 

Dog bar

A post shared by gabs (@gabriellamik) on

4. Divoká Šárka Nature Reserve

Fancy getting away from the hustle and bustle?

Prague may not be famous for it's walking trails, but that be about to change.

Belive it or not, this gorgeous park is located out the outskirts of Prague – just a 30 minute walk from Wenceslas Square. 

In summer, you can even take a dip in the park's natural swimming pool called “Dzban” (The Jug).

 

#prague #nature #wood #trip #divokasarka

A post shared by Lukas Clément (@luke.clement) on

5. The Meetfactory

Discover the best of Prague's alternative art scene at The Meetfactory, a refurbished slaughterhouse that has been repurposed to house studios for young creatives.

It's also home one of Europe's coolest concert venue and theatres.

The whole project was created under the leadership of the Czech artist David Cerny.

 

A post shared by Fien (@fintonn) on

Trending

Boston is like a home away from home for me as I tend to pay it a visit at least once a year! 

It is a city like no other to be honest, with so much going on, while also seeming calm and serene. 

It has all of the benefits of the hustle and bustle of a large city, but there's a sort of 'village vibe' to it at the same time. 

Amazing! 

Anyway, if you're lucky enough to be heading across the Atlantic to Boston, you will absolutely have to enjoy at least one amazing brunch. 

So, for you, I have come up with a list of the most divine brunch spots in Boston…

1. Abe & Louie's

The all-American brunch at Abe & Louie's has eggs in every form: omelettes, steak and eggs, or even with crab cakes (we highly recommend the crab, FYI). Not really an egg gal? Well, there are also sandwiches, salads, seafood and so many other delicious options. 

Have to try: The Boylston Breakfast (we're drooling at the thought!) It comes with three eggs, bacon, sausage, and toast … so basically their own twist on a full Irish! Oh, and if you're feeling fancy, give the lobster omelette a whirl, it is outrageous. 

 

There’s nothing a good brunch cant fix. Especially ours. (served Saturday and Sunday)

A post shared by Abe & Louie's (@abeandlouies) on

2. The Beehive

The Beehive serves what it describes as 'simple, satisfying, and generous comfort food'. Their amazing kitchen creates scrumptious, moderately-priced fare, with rustic influences from the Middle East, Eastern Europe and America. Oh, and if the food hasn't sold you… Sunday brunch at The Beehive often comes with a side of jazz.

Have to try: the chicken fried steak, it's a real authentic taste of the Deep South! 

3. Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant

If you have a sweet tooth, then this is the spot for you! Lincoln Tavern offers all the delicious brunch treats, like pancakes and waffles, along with the savoury classic. The best part? They don't just do brunch at the weekend, they have a delightful weekday brunch menu! So let's chow down. 

Have to try: the fruity pebble pancakes AND the pumpkin pancakes… because when in doubt, order both!  

4. Mike's City Diner

This is one of those quintessential American Diners that everyone just needs to visit and enjoy! They serve a massive breakfast and brunch menu all day long, with seriously massive portions (seriously, you'll leave FULL!) The best part? The prices are so reasonable, so you'll be able to go all out and order everything that you want! 

Have to try: Mike's famous pilgrim sandwich. WOW! 

 

a few moments in pics from the past couple of weeks !

A post shared by Naomi (@namio100) on

5. Maggiano's

So this is (in my humble opinion) one of the most delicious Italian restaurants in Boston, but their brunch is damn good also. The offer all the wonderful classics, like pancakes, French toast and eggs in all forms. However, they have some pretty unique dishes also, such as the Italian sausage frittata – so good. 

Have to try: the meatball eggs benedict, the most amazing twist on a brunch classic… you won't regret it! 

 

A toast to French Toast, for making hearts warmer and bellies happier!

A post shared by Maggiano's Little Italy (@maggianoslittleitaly) on

Trending

We bloody love a little weekend away every now and then (we wish we could afford to go away every weekend tbh, but alas, broke).

Anyway, if you are planning to hop off to a gorgeous European city – Edinburgh should be at the TOP of your list. 

I love Paris, Berlin and all those other brilliant cities, but for some reason, Edinburgh is number one in my heart. 

The people are amazing, the architecture is gorge, and the bars are CLASS. 

Seriously, I am yet to meet a person who visited Edinburgh and didn't fall in love. 

So, I decided to do up a wee list of my favourite bars in the Scottish capital – that you simply need to try. 

Also, if you have any recommendations, send the my way !

1. Panda & Sons

Best for: a Long Island iced tea. 

Panda & Sons opened in November 2013 by Panda and his family. The foundation the bar was built on was to create a place where all ages and all people would feel welcome whether it would be for one of their deliciously creative cocktails, wide range of craft beers or their gloriously extensive wine list.

They are a hidden bar fusing the classic Prohibition style Speakeasy and a nod to the Vintage style Barbershop. All we can say is that if you find a Barbershop with some foreign currency you have made it to the Libation Destination!

2. The Albanach

Best for: a whisky on the rocks.

Loved by locals and office workers just as much as tourists, The Albanach is a classy bar that puts equal emphasis on food and drink. You won't be able to miss the 220 malt whiskies behind the long central bar, or the Belhaven beer, nor resist the contemporary Scottish menu with its pub favourites and local specialities. It's a great chance to get a taste of Highland hospitality right on the Royal Mile, with friendly staff who'll introduce you to the best of what Scotland has to offer.

3. Monteiths

Best for: an Espresso martini. 

The bar team at Monteiths pride themselves upon creating innovative and interesting cocktails using the best products available. The carefully curated cocktail list features plenty of classic drinks alongside some new creations that have been designed in-house. There’s also a selection of fantastic wines sourced from across the globe; you’ll find an eclectic mix of well-known varietals, unusual grapes and rare vintages. If beer is your tipple, then you're in luck – Monteiths also have a regularly changing selection of craft brews from Scotland and further afield.

4. Bramble

Best for: a G&T.

This hidden cocktail bar has now firmly established itself as one of the best in Edinburgh (and one of the best in the World, FYI). Its reputation has only grown over the years and the original cocktails are rightly regarded for their quality and creativity – they're seriously delish. The décor is understated, all brick and dim light (romantic) and the drink menus are bound inside the covers of old books. Despite its popularity, Bramble is relatively intimate mid-week, but it can get busy on weekends. 

 

Bramble by Bramble

A post shared by Vitalii Kononykin (@kononykin_v) on

5. The Devil's Advocate

Best for: 'Cask to Cup' cocktail.

The Devil’s Advocate is a bar and restaurant situated in the historical and atmospheric Old Town of Edinburgh, in an old Victorian pump house hidden away in Advocates Close.

Featuring a mezzanine dining area and a 400 strong whisky shelf, the menu boasts seasonal and Scottish ingredients that change monthly.

 

Trending

There are plenty of ways to save a few quid while travelling – make your own meals, use public transport, work in hostel.

Or you know, just bunk with one of your Tinder matches, whatever.

Penny-pinching millennials have found a secondary use for the popular dating app, and are instead using it to secure free accommodation across Europe.

 

A post shared by Tinder Surfer (@zebotta) on

Sure, it might sound a little odd, even pretty dangerous, but the so-called 'Tindersurfing' trend is becoming more and more prominent among young adventure seekers.

Anothony Botta, a 25-year-old Tinder Plus from Belgium, told Metro.co.uk how he manages to travel throughout the continent without ever having to fork out for a place to stay.

"I was hosted only by ladies I matched on Tinder. Sometimes for the best, sometimes for the worst. It has been a hell of a journey, meeting very different people, cultures and lifestyles. I learned a lot about myself’ he says, adding that his venture has mixed reviews."

"I have ladies telling me “no, I live with my parents’, “no, I live with my boyfriend”…but what the f*** are you doing on Tinder if you live with your boyfriend?"

 

Teacher: "What do you want to become when you grow up?" Me: …

A post shared by Tinder Surfer (@zebotta) on

"The ladies, at the end, just need to host me. They don’t need to be like supermodels, but a couple of times I couldn’t find a host, so I just thought I’ll match everyone."

Anothony has successfully travelled to 20 cities using this rather unconventional method, and plans to visit New Zealand next.

And while he does not set out to be intimate his hosts, he did say that he could «not deny» that things have gone that way in the past.

So, reckon you'd give this a go?

Trending

Irish holidays makers will be able to ditch the airports and set sail to Spain this summer thanks to a new route launched by Brittany Ferries.

The brand new ferry crossing will be the first to link Ireland with the popular holiday destination, and could potentially provide a tourism boost for both countries.

Passengers will sail from Cork to Santander in northern Spain, with a new ship being chartered to serve the route, as well as n additional weekly return-sailing from Cork to Roscoff, France.

According to The Irish Mirror, the ship, which will carry approximately 500 passengers as well as 195 cars, is said to offer a comfortable, no-frills service with a distinctly Spanish theme.

On board, passengers can expect to find a small shop, a café-bar and lounge areas as well as dining options that reflect the serviced regions.

The spacious cabins provide beds for up to four people, with a small number of per-friendly rooms also available.

The service is set to launch at the end of April, with two return sailings scheduled per week.

Brittany Ferries spokesman Hugh Bruton said: "This is a significant move for Brittany Ferries, offering haulage companies a direct route to Spain and passengers a far greater range of holiday options from Cork.

"As a destination so-called green Spain promises visitors a wealth of opportunities. It hosts sweeping sandy beaches, snow covered mountains just an hour from the port, fabulous food and offers visitors a welcome as warm as the Spanish will receive when they join us in Ireland.”

That's out summer holidays sorted anyway!

Trending

Last Friday, we told you to get yourselves to one of three locations around Dublin city centre if you wanted a chance to win free flights with Aer Lingus.

If you missed out on the excitement which ensued, you're probably wondering what all this is about, so let's recap!

In an effort to rid the nation of the January Blues, the airline set up Sun Dials at Grand Canal Dock, O’Connell Street and South King Street.

The moment these Sun Dials started ringing, it was up to you to pick one up and answer the three questions posed by the Aer Lingus staff member on the other end.

If you answered all three correctly, you and a friend would be jetting off for a much-needed trip abroad.

It really was as simple as that, but if you don't believe us, just take a look at this!

 

Trending

If the January Blues have well and truly set in, then there's no doubt that thoughts of sunnier climes have crept into your mind at least once over the past five days.

But considering the financial car crash that is most of our bank accounts right now, a holiday seems like little more than a pipe dream, right?

Keen to remedy this, the good folk at Aer Lingus have decided to give the public a chance to get their hands on free flights by setting up special Sun Dials at three locations across the capital city.

So, how does it work exactly?

The Sun Dial will ring at their spots on Grand Canal Dock, O’Connell Street and South King Street, and the first person to answer the call will be in with a chance with winning flights to Europe or North America.

But how exactly?

Well, the Aer Lingus Whisperer on the other end of the phone will provide the potential winner with three clues about a particular destination, and if guessed correctly, that person could well be packing their bags… and bringing a plus one!

But if you're not a Sun Dial winner, that doesn't mean a holiday abroad is out of your grasp!

The Aer Lingus January Seat Sale is live now with 3 million seats on sale including up to 50 per cent off European travel and flights to North America from just €209 each way. Sale fares are valid for travel from 01 April to 30 September 2018 and include taxes and charges.

Beach babes can dip their toes in the sand at popular European seaside destinations including Malaga, Alicante, Faro and Nice, while city slickers can soak up the atmosphere in Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona and Milan, among many others.

Those interested in transatlantic travel can choose from New York, Newark, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, Hartford, Boston, Washington, Chicago and Toronto, as well as recently added cities – Philadelphia, from March 2018, and Seattle, from May 2018.

 Sounds good to us!

Trending