10. Geneva, Switzerland

According to Resonance, Geneva is a city of global importance. Despite its small population of just over 600,000, it is home to the European headquarters of the United Nations, the international headquarters of the Red Cross and more than 200 international organizations. The city is known for its strong emphasis on social responsibility, ranking fifth in Europe in terms of educated citizens, twenty-fourth in the subcategory of foreign-born residents, and fourth in terms of disposable income.

9. Basel, Switzerland

Resonance praised the quality of life in Switzerland’s third largest city, Basel, which locals are proud of for its unique mix. It was ranked 5th in the overall people category, including high scores for foreign-born residents, education levels and labor force participation. This suggests that the city’s residents, who are largely high achievers, actively recommend Basel as a great place to live.

8. Rome, Italy

Few cities offer the chance to walk through Western history as effectively as Rome, according to Resonance. Messages of affection to the city have naturally multiplied on social media platforms, and Rome now trails only London and Paris in our crucial Promotion category, ranking second for TripAdvisor reviews and fifth for Facebook check-ins and Google Trends.

7. Berlin, Germany

It should come as no surprise that Berlin rated among the top five cities for culture, museums, and nightlife. According to Resonance, the city draws both tourists and locals with its raw, unapologetic urbanity and self-expression. The Ethnological Museum and the Museum of Asian Art have relocated inside the brand-new Humboldt Forum in the city’s center, which is brand-new this year. A dozen other museums with collections ranging from video games to the samurai era are slated to open.

6. Madrid, Spain

Resonance claims that Madrid, which is occasionally disregarded in favor of Barcelona’s beaches and nightlife, is now speaking its narrative with confidence. The biggest news may be Madrid’s lovely efforts to fight pollution and climate change, which include a 76-kilometer urban forest network with roughly 500,000 young trees. This “green wall” is expected to help absorb 175,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually.

5. Zürich, Switzerland

According to Resonance “Switzerland’s financial center and largest metropolis is a magnet for foreigners who, along with multilingual Swiss nationals, enjoy one of the world’s highest standards of living—the city ranks second on the continent in our Disposable Household Income subcategory (trailing only fellow Swiss city Bern), and no. 3 for Fortune Global 500 headquarters (trailing only Paris and London).” 

4. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is described by Resonance as having nearly year-round perfect weather, miles of beaches, iconic parks, Gaudí’s iconic architectural landmarks and colorful neighborhoods that march to their own rhythm – artistic, sophisticated and bohemian. According to Catalonia Startup Hub, Catalonia is also becoming a tech hub of sorts, bringing in €1.6 billion in startup funding in 2022.

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

According to Resonance, Femke Halsema, the visionary mayor of Amsterdam and the first non-interim female mayor in the city’s history, is leading a small but powerful dynamo to keep an eye on. Anyone who calls the charming Dutch capital home will be held accountable in the future, thanks to responsible stewardship of a place and its residents.

2. Paris, France

Resonance points to Mayor Hidalgo’s decree of a citywide 30 km/h speed limit and the “obsessive expansion of bike lanes,” claiming that new and returning visitors to Paris, no matter how they come, will discover a city that has codified pedestrian traffic and outdoor living.

1. London, England

According to Resonance, London is holding up quite well, relying on the falling pound to attract investment and, of course, tourists previously priced out of the market, despite the deserved hand-wringing over the Brexit-induced exodus of talent and money. The best city in the world has new wealthy citizens who can now afford to cross off a key item on their multimillionaire list: Real estate.

(London also topped the world’s best list for 2023.)

The post 10 TOP European Cities To Visit In Summer 2023, According To A New Data appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

A country that used to be largely neglected by travelers, but has recently become one of the most promising destinations and real hidden gems of Europe.

Demand for travel to Europe increased between 2022 and 2023, especially after all health-related entry requirements were removed and normalcy was fully restored. But while tourism goliaths such as France, Italy and Spain have taken steps to reduce tourist numbers, other lesser-known countries are eager to welcome more visitors.

Albania is a small country in southeastern Europe, bordering Greece to the south, northern Macedonia and Kosovo to the east, and beautiful Montenegro to the north. But unlike many of its contemporaries, it was introduced to the public only 30 years ago.

According to INSTAT, 377,211 foreigners arrived in Albania in January of this year, a rise of 94.2% year on year. These rates are nothing short of amazing, given that Europe is still in its ‘off-season,’ when arrivals often decline considerably.

In addition, all European countries have relaxed border controls and allowed the resumption of tourist traffic. The fact that Albania continues to expand so rapidly in the face of the return to normalcy of its fiercest competitors is further evidence that it has maintained the momentum it gained at the beginning of the pandemic.

While most of Europe was closed because of COVID, Albania remained accessible without restrictions, which probably contributed to its unexpected popularity.

Last year, 7.5 million tourists visited Albania, a 32% increase over 2021. If the current trend continues, the country’s previous high could easily be surpassed by December.

Many tourists are unaware that Albania is a summer paradise.

Albania, like Croatia and Montenegro, is located on the Adriatic Sea, one of the arms of the great Mediterranean, but the cost of living is much lower in comparison. You will find the same turquoise waters, white sandy or pebble beaches, and medieval towns with stone houses, but without expensive hotels and typical tourist traps.

Large parts of the southernmost coast of Albania, known as the Albanian Riviera, have remained undeveloped so that nature is intact, the beaches are undisturbed, and the traditional cobblestone towns, where generations of families have lived for centuries, untainted by outside influences.

Prices in Albania

Albania has become an increasingly popular destination for holidaymakers in recent years, offering a wide range of attractions and activities at affordable prices compared to other European destinations. The cost of a holiday in Albania will depend on several factors, including the time of year, type of accommodation, and the activities you plan to do.

Accommodation in Albania ranges from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels and resorts. Prices can vary depending on the location and season, but generally, budget accommodation can be found for as low as €10-€20 per night, while more upscale options can range from €50-€200 per night.

Food and drink in Albania are also reasonably priced, with traditional Albanian dishes costing around €5-€10 in local restaurants. International cuisine options are available in larger cities, and prices may vary accordingly.

Transportation costs in Albania are relatively low. Taxis are widely available, and the fares are reasonable, with an average cost of €5-€10 for a short ride. Buses are also a popular and cheap way to travel around the country, with tickets ranging from €1-€5 depending on the distance.

The post This Hidden Gem Is Becoming One Of The Trendiest Destinations In Europe In 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The 56-day voyage, which is scheduled to begin in August and can accommodate up to 30 passengers, will pass through 22 countries as it travels from Turkey’s largest city through the Balkans, Eastern Europe, Scandinavia and Western Europe before arriving in London.

Highlights of the 12,000-kilometer journey include a ferry ride across the Gulf of Finland, a trip to the North Cape (or Nordkapp), the northernmost point on the European continent, and a cruise along the Norwegian fjords.

The total cost of the package, which is $24,300, covers all hotel accommodations (on a twin sharing basis), 30 lunches and dinners, and a daily breakfast. 

Some people may not find the idea of spending two months traveling by bus particularly appealing, but this specific bus is “a special luxury bus designed for comfortable long-distance travel.”

On board, passengers can unwind on adjustable recliners with “ample legroom.” Seats also include a AUX and USB port, a folding tray, and cup and drink holders. Two “full-size suitcases” are allowed per traveler.

Entrepreneurs Tushar Agarwal and Sanjay Madan founded Adventures Overland in 2012, and since then they have organized numerous expeditions from India to London in convoys of individual cars, as well as trips through Russia and Iceland, before launching their first transcontinental bus trip.

A statement from Agarwal said, “every single route in each country has been vetted to ensure that the journey is seamless so participants on Bus to London can get on board with the knowledge and confidence that they are in safe hands.”

“Providing a niche and classy experience in a secure environment is our top priority. We take charge of documentation, paperwork, visas and permits to ensure that the entire focus of participants is on experiencing the journey.”

The current longest bus route in the world, according to Guinness World Records, travels 6,200 kilometers from Lima, Peru, to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

With the introduction of a 1.9-kilometer (1.2-mile) long train with 100 coaches that runs along the Albula/Bernina track from Preda to Berguen last year, the Swiss railroad company Rhaetian Railway broke the previous mark for the world’s longest train route.

The bus from Istanbul to London is set to depart on August 7 and arrive on October 1.

The post This World’s Longest Bus Journey Will Cross 22 Countries appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Nationals of non-EU countries traveling to the bloc without a visa will have to register online every three years before departure and pay a small fee under the so-called ETIAS system, which was due to come into force in November this year.

ETIAS, which is connected to a traveler’s passport, has a maximum validity of three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. To do this, you must fill out an online form, pay a fee of seven euros, and shortly thereafter receive the authorization.

The EU has now postponed the introduction of the system until at least next year, without giving an exact month or date. The introduction of the travel authorization system was previously planned for 2019, but has been repeatedly postponed.

According to the EU, ETIAS is not a visa and will affect over 1.4 billion people from more than sixty nations, including holders of British, American, and Australian passports.

What advantages might a postponement of the ETIAS rollout bring?

Intermediaries and service providers in the travel industry, especially those that support travel to European Union countries, will benefit from a delay in ETIAS implementation.

Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and other operators have expressed concerns about the collection of facial and fingerprint data for ETIAS. Several airports, ports, rail crossings, and land crossings do not have the necessary infrastructure to perform such data collection.

It is believed that the delay will give them more time to expand their capabilities and ensure that their systems are ready.

Since many airports already have scanning infrastructure, it is expected that it will be easier for them to integrate ETIAS into their systems than for port, railroad, or land crossing operators, who probably do not have such hardware.

Where can you learn more about ETIAS?

You can learn more about each of the associated ETIAS themes by visiting the pages listed below:

ETIAS Countries – Which EU countries will you need an ETIAS to enter.

ETIAS Requirements – A list of the general ETIAS requirements.

ETIAS FAQ – Frequently asked questions about ETIAS.

Who needs ETIAS? – Citizens of the countries listed can apply for ETIAS.

ETIAS Assessment – Find out if your future travel purposes will be covered with an ETIAS.

What is the Schengen Area? – Learn more about the Schengen Area, member countries and its history.

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These beach spots are less well-known and have reduced prices.

1. Ischia, Italy

Ischia is one of Italy’s most underappreciated locations. This island, located in the Bay of Naples, is not far from the popular islands of Capri and the Amalfi Coast.

Yet, it is less expensive and less busy, and there is much to do!

2. Ayia Napa, Cyprus

Another underrated beach destination in Europe is Cyprus. This small island is located in the Mediterranean Sea, west of Lebanon and south of Turkey.

Ayia Napa, one of the best beaches in the country, attracts tourists with its stunning resorts and beaches. This seaside town is known for its delicious restaurants with fresh seafood, exciting bars, and affordable prices, which makes it the ideal destination for a trip this summer.

3. Aljezur, Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve coast has long ceased to be an insider’s tip, as the popularity of its coastal communities has skyrocketed in recent years.

Aljezur is still a little-known tourist attraction, especially for surfers. In this pretty town on the Algarve coast, you can discover excellent surfing opportunities. There are also plenty of stunning, undeveloped beaches here where you can relax away from the crowds.

4. Milos, Greece

This small island has a population of just over 5,000 people and has long been considered a hidden gem. Milos is becoming increasingly popular due to its magnificent scenery and fantastic beaches.

5. Korcula, Croatia

While popular summer vacation spots like Dubrovnik and Hvar are overrun with tourists, the Adriatic Sea island of Korcula has a more relaxed atmosphere. Also, it is less expensive than other Croatian locations, which can be very pricey during the busy summer season.

6. Ksamil, Albania

Although Albania might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of beaches in Europe, this Balkan country actually possesses some of the most picturesque coastlines in the entire continent!

The nicest aspect is that it’s incredibly cheap and stays off the beaten path for the majority of American tourists. 

The post 6 Underrated European Beach Towns To Visit In 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Reuters.com reports that industry group Exceltur has noted an increase in bookings for 2023 for Spanish hotels, resorts, transportation providers, car rentals and entertainment companies. This would surpass the country’s tourism figures for 2019.

“The picture is hopeful,” Exceltur Vice President Jose Luis Zoreda said. “It seems that the desire to travel has prevailed and some firms are telling us that consumers would rather stop buying a shirt or an appliance than stop traveling.”

Despite the travel industry’s recovery, tourism numbers in 2022 were still 2.1 percent below 2019 levels. While hotel income increased by 7% from pre-pandemic levels, transportation businesses nonetheless saw a 5% decline compared to 2019.

Spanish tourism companies’ profits have been hurt by inflation, rising gasoline prices, and wage increases, yet average prices rose 6.6 percent in 2022. The travel and tourism sector would account for about 12.2 percent of the country’s GDP if growth continues at projected rates.

The Spanish government is also betting on a boost in American and British tourists in 2023, after Exceltur found that Central European and Mexican visitors helped the country’s economy last year.

Spain unveiled a new visa program that will permit non-citizens from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who work for foreign businesses to live in the nation without having to obtain a work visa. The program is set to debut in January.

The post Spain Anticipates Tourism Income To Surpass Pre-Pandemic Levels In 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

In order to completely integrate into the European Single Market, the Adriatic hub has abandoned the kuna, the former Hravastki currency, and adopted the euro in addition to joining the Schengen Area, Europe’s border-free region.

Since Croatia joined the monetary union of Europe, kunas are no longer an accepted form of payment there. Despite widespread expectations that the price of goods would simply be transferred from kunas to euros at the moment of “Euroization,” this was not the case:

Since January 1, when the stronger euro abruptly drove the weaker kuna out of the market and “Euroized” all goods, services, and transactions within the nation, the cost of living in Croatia has increased precipitously. Unfortunately, neither the difficult transition time nor the inflation seen across the EU have contributed to lessening the burden.

The price increases were significantly harsher than anticipated, occasionally by 10 to 15 percent.

The financial strain is evidently felt more severely by middle-class Croatian families, but tourists were also impacted. According to Economy Minister Davor Filipovic, inflation is currently at 13.5 percent, with food and non-alcoholic beverage prices seeing the largest increases, though other industries were also hard hit.

The Minister pointed out that retail chains have been shamelessly attempting to “deceive” customers by rounding fares to the to the next 10 or even higher. It goes without saying that future price hikes for restaurants, hotels, guesthouses, and tourist attractions may range from modest to large. In conclusion, Croatia is no longer a more affordable option than Italy or Spain.

It’s also not a promising sign that 1,738 infractions of the rule on euro adoption were reported in just five days. The Minister was cited as saying that “all alternatives are on the table,” including black lists and a price freeze on “a wide array of products,” in order to prevent prices from out of control and safeguard Croats and tourists from unfair pricing.

The post This EU Travel Hotspot Is Becoming Unusually Expensive in 2023 – What to Know  appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

According to the European Travel Commission, Turkey is the destination with the best return, accounting for only -5% of its pre-pandemic visitors in 2019.

Turkey also attracted visitors from other countries. According to the data, British citizens increasingly prefer Turkey for their European vacations, more than a quarter more than in the same period in 2019.

Turkey is considered an excellent travel destination, and as it has eased travel restrictions faster than other European nations, the country’s tourism industry has recovered more quickly.

Compared to other European countries, Turkey, Serbia and Montenegro have all decided to relax travel regulations, resulting in an earlier return of tourists.

Many visitors fall in love with this lovely country, which offers a tailor-made experience for all types of travelers and a Mediterranean climate that allows them to visit all year.

It’s difficult to be disappointed while soaking up the sun on its turquoise water-lined beaches, exploring the ancient ruins, or tasting its traditional foods and delectable desserts.

Istanbul, Turkey’s largest metropolis and the point at which Europe and Asia converge, will be your first visit. It offers mouthwatering cuisine, a Grand Bazaar with more than 4,000 shops, and a wealth of historical and cultural landmarks.

Turkey is so large that you’ll want to leave the city to see the rest of what it has to offer, like the mud baths in Dalyan, the volcanic landscape in Cappadocia, the greatest beaches in Antalya, and ancient wrecks submerged in the sea off the coast of Bodrum.

Update December 31: Recently, one of the villages in Turkey has been ranked by United Nations in the TOP world villages to visit in 2023. Birgi, Türkiye (Turkey) took 31st position in the list of the TOP 34.

The post Europe’s New No. 1 Travel Destination For Americans Is Not Where You’d Think appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The holiday rental booking site Holidu, has identified which European destinations are the jolliest and offer the ideal weekend getaway for Christmas enthusiasts. The index identifies the places that are the epitome of a winter wonderland by taking into account the volume of Instagram hashtags, global search volume, the number of Christmas markets and the average number of snow days in December.

Without further ado, these are the cities you should be visiting this Christmas 2022

12. Cologne, Germany

Cologne, sometimes spelled Köln, is well-known for its magnificent cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the city in numerous ways.

The largest city on the Rhine, which also happens to be the birthplace of mulled wine, has no less than 7 Christmas fairs from the end of November to New Year’s Eve, some with unusual themes and others that are genuine and steeped in tradition.

These wintertime attractions, which are dispersed throughout Cologne and are regarded as some of the best Christmas markets in Germany, provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the enchanted holiday season and get to know the traditions of the fascinating country from which the Christmas markets originated.

11. Strasbourg, France

This small Alsatian town near the German border is an excellent place for your winter vacation, as it has the oldest Christmas market in France, a spectacular Gothic cathedral, and a charming Old Town that is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. You will undoubtedly admire the charming Marchés de Noël set up in Strasbourg’s old squares, as well as the ornate decorations that adorn the city’s half-timbered houses at any time of year.

In the shadow of the mighty cathedral, you’ll find nearly 300 traditional wooden stalls with beautiful Christmas tree decorations, eye-catching nativity figures, and heartwarming seasonal specialties like roasted chestnuts, Bredele cookies, or vin chaud (mulled wine). The atmosphere is enlivened by the singing of Christmas carols, Nativity plays and glittering ice skating rinks where you can hardly resist the temptation to jump on them.

10. Oslo, Norway

Oslo, ranked 10th overall, is the city in the top 10 with the highest probability of snowfall in December, with an average of 17 snow days! In addition to the high probability of a white Christmas, Oslo is a fantastic alternative for snow sports enthusiasts, as the Oslo Winter Park ski resort is only a 30-minute drive from the city center.

9. Paris, France

Impressive light shows found throughout Paris are some of the city’s best vacation offerings.

Visit the Champs Elysees for one of the most enchanting holiday vistas. If you visit Paris in December, you will escape the hordes of tourists you usually encounter in other seasons, which is another great advantage.

8. Salzburg, Austria

Over the holidays, there are many sing-alongs and concerts that pay tribute to this city’s musical tradition and spread Christmas cheer through loud singing for all to hear! Due to its proximity to the mountains, Salzburg is also a fantastic place to spend a day skiing.

7. London, United Kingdom

If the Christmas markets aren’t your thing or you’re seeking for other Christmas activities, London has much more to offer.

How about a joyous musical performance of one of the most beloved Christmas movies of all time? Yes, from November 14, 2022 to January 7, 2023, you can treat yourself to a performance of ELF The Musical at the Dominion Theater!

6. Stockholm, Sweden

A weekend in Sweden’s capital is a really nice way to get excited. The festivities begin in mid-November and we recommend a visit to the Stortorget Christmas Market in the Old Town, the country’s oldest Christmas market dating back to 1837.

With more than 40 stalls selling souvenirs, food and drink, you’ll be spoiled for choice here. As you stroll through the streets lit with shimmering lights, you can sip on some glögg (mulled wine) and eat a gingerbread cookie.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark’s capital city of Copenhagen completes the top 5. The Julemarked in Hjbro Plads is located in the center of the Old Town. It is modeled after a classic German Christmas market and offers everything from waffles to gluhwein. It is known for having an “international flair” Visit Tivoli Gardens, the market in the world’s second oldest amusement park, if you are looking for a thrill! Visit Julemarked Kongens Nytorv if you are looking for tradition! In wintry Copenhagen, you are sure to find the ideal market.

4. Munich, Germany

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, occupies one of the first five places on our list and continues the German tradition of festive markets. Here you’ll find some of the oldest Christmas markets, with roots dating back to 1310, the year the first recognized “Christmas market” was held in Germany.

Markets are held throughout the city during the Christmas season, so you are guaranteed plenty of options. Visit the lively Christkindlmarkt with its more than 150 stalls on Marienplatz or the picturesque Christmas village in the Munich Residenz.

3. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the Czech Republic, is next on our list. Prague is still a hit on Instagram hashtags and search queries during the winter season, despite having fewer Christmas markets overall.

In addition to the charming cobblestone streets and lively markets, many are drawn to the city for its affordable prices. Visit some of the prominent landmarks, such as the spectacular Christmas trees in Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. If you want to feel merry in winter, you must travel to Prague.

2. Vienna, Austria

Vienna, the capital of Austria, moves up to second on our list. Vienna is a joyful paradise not to be missed during the Christmas season, as the first “December Market” dates back to 1298. Enter a winter paradise by visiting Vienna’s most famous Christmas market, Rathausplatz. It’s hardly surprising that people flock to Vienna during the Christmas season to feel festive, as it’s one of the most sought-after vacation destinations posted on Instagram.

1. Berlin, Germany

Berlin wins the title of Europe’s most joyous Christmas city in Europe. Christmas markets are nothing new in this city; the first one was founded here back in 1530.

You can choose the one that suits you best among more than 80 markets spread all over the city. Enjoy a steaming cup of Glühwein while admiring the bright lights of the Christmas carnival in Frankfurter Allee, or go to the Berlin City Hall and ride the famous Ferris wheel. Whatever your preference, Berlin will undoubtedly make your Christmas season merry and bright.

Most Festive Cities in Europe Rankings

The post Best 12 European Cities To Enjoy Christmas Vibe in 2022 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Sofyan Mbarki, the deputy mayor of Amsterdam, has stressed the importance of taking action. “Action is needed to prevent nuisance and overcrowding. Amsterdam is a world city, and bustle and liveliness come along with this, but to keep our city liveable, we need to choose limits instead of irresponsible growth.”

The “Stay Away” campaign will attempt to reduce the number of visitors in the spring of 2023 by discouraging several popular recreational activities. The following types of tourists will be limited from entering:

Cannabis And Drug Tourists

Amsterdam is known for its coffee shops where patrons can buy and consume marijuana and other “soft drugs.” There are 92 coffee shops in the city center alone.

The city has put up some ideas to deter marijuana and drug tourism. Smoking cannabis on the street in tourist zones can be banned by ordinance. Even stricter measures could be taken, such as banning sales on weekends in the red light district.

Batchelor Parties 

One of the most popular places for bachelor parties in Europe are the streets of Amsterdam. An accessible sex business coexists with a lively bar scene in the city’s famous red-light district.

The city aims to discourage this type of visitors by mandating earlier closing times for bars and brothels and banning organized pub crawls.

Sex Tourists

In Amsterdam, prostitution is allowed and has been regulated by the Dutch government for more than 20 years. Because of this, the city is now a popular destination for sex tourism worldwide, which has led to a thriving sex industry. The red light district houses sex stores, brothels, peep shows and strip clubs.

Plans for early closing hours and restrictions on businesses in the red light district are intended to signal to sex tourists that they are no longer welcome in the city.

Overtourism 

Authorities in Amsterdam are taking steps to curb overtourism and avoid unwanted visitors. By introducing a cap on tourists, they are trying to limit the total number of visitors to 20 million. A tourist tax may also be introduced, as well as restrictions on popular river cruises and guided group tours. Regulations on short-term rentals are also to be tightened.

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