Top 10 attractions to see and do in St. Petersburg

Explore the city on a river cruise

Charming and romantic canals around the city have given Saint Petersburg the nickname “Venice of the North”. Taking a boat cruise along the Neva River is one of the best ways to explore the city and marvel the city’s impressive neo-classical architecture. With multiple rivers and many canals winding their way through the city, offering unique views of the city, a river cruise is a must for all visitors!

Slide 2 of 10: The whole city is famous for its Imperial palaces and majestic parks, but Peterhof Palace is just so impressive it can't be missed. Located about an hour away from the city's center, Petehof's a large complex of palaces, gardens and fountains. Russian tsars used it as their main summer residence, so it's no wonder its exterior and interior are lavishly decorated. The major draw is the Grand Palace, built in Baroque style, and the beautiful Park surrounding it. With more than 150 fountains and 4 cascades, the whole complex had gotten the nickname Russian Versailles.

2/10 SLIDES © Leonid Andronov/123RF

Visit the magnificent Peterhof Palace

The whole city is famous for its Imperial palaces and majestic parks, but Peterhof Palace is just so impressive it can’t be missed. Located about an hour away from the city’s center, Petehof’s a large complex of palaces, gardens and fountains. Russian tsars used it as their main summer residence, so it’s no wonder its exterior and interior are lavishly decorated. The major draw is the Grand Palace, built in Baroque style, and the beautiful Park surrounding it. With more than 150 fountains and 4 cascades, the whole complex had gotten the nickname Russian Versailles.

Slide 3 of 10: The State Hermitage Museum is the second largest in the world and houses the largest collection of paintings in the world. Around 3 million pieces from all over the world are kept here, including rich collection of Greek and Roman antiquities and European fine art. The Museum spans several sites, but the main collection is located within the impressive Winter Palace. Here you'll find masterpieces of famous painters like Leonardo Da Vinci, Goya, Rembrandt, Van Gogh etc. It's a must-see for all art and history buffs!

3/10 SLIDES © Marco Rubino/123RF

Admire artwork at The State Hermitage Museum

The State Hermitage Museum is the second largest in the world and houses the largest collection of paintings in the world. Around 3 million pieces from all over the world are kept here, including rich collection of Greek and Roman antiquities and European fine art. The Museum spans several sites, but the main collection is located within the impressive Winter Palace. Here you’ll find masterpieces of famous painters like Leonardo Da Vinci, Goya, Rembrandt, Van Gogh etc. It’s a must-see for all art and history buffs!

Slide 4 of 10: With a similar faÃ§ade to the famous St Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, this Church stands out from St. Petersburg typical architecture. This Orthodox Church stands on the exact place where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated. It was built in memory of him and that's why it's officially called The Church of Resurrection. With its five domes, the church is impressive both on the outside and on the inside. Interior of the church boasts the world's biggest collection of mosaics, so it's definitely worth going inside!

4/10 SLIDES © Ilker Celik/123RF

Explore The Church of Saviour on Spilled Blood

With a similar façade to the famous St Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, this Church stands out from St. Petersburg typical architecture. This Orthodox Church stands on the exact place where Tsar Alexander II was assassinated. It was built in memory of him and that’s why it’s officially called The Church of Resurrection. With its five domes, the church is impressive both on the outside and on the inside. Interior of the church boasts the world’s biggest collection of mosaics, so it’s definitely worth going inside!

Slide 5 of 10: St. Petersburg's main street houses many beautiful landmarks. The most famous street is 2.5 miles long and lined up with glorious palaces, historical buildings and lovely bridges. It crosses the city center from east to west and it's considered as the main avenue in town. Besides historic monuments, Nevsky Prospekt is also a hub for shopping and nightlife. Also, it's scattered with cafes and restaurants, serving delicious Russian dishes.

5/10 SLIDES © Phuong Nguyen Duy/123RF

Wander around Nevsky Prospekt

St. Petersburg’s main street houses many beautiful landmarks. The most famous street is 2.5 miles long and lined up with glorious palaces, historical buildings and lovely bridges. It crosses the city center from east to west and it’s considered as the main avenue in town. Besides historic monuments, Nevsky Prospekt is also a hub for shopping and nightlife. Also, it’s scattered with cafes and restaurants, serving delicious Russian dishes.

Slide 6 of 10: Famed as one of the most splendid buildings in the city, The Winter Palace was once a royal residence of Russian tsars. The Baroque masterpiece is situated on the Palace Square, known as the city's main square. Admire the mirrors, ceiling paintings, sculptures and miraculous halls, all bursting with richness. The Palace today partly houses the most famous museum in town, the Hermitage.

6/10 SLIDES © Dmitriy Baranov/123RF

Take a picture in front of The Winter Palace

Famed as one of the most splendid buildings in the city, The Winter Palace was once a royal residence of Russian tsars. The Baroque masterpiece is situated on the Palace Square, known as the city’s main square. Admire the mirrors, ceiling paintings, sculptures and miraculous halls, all bursting with richness. The Palace today partly houses the most famous museum in town, the Hermitage.

Slide 7 of 10: Besides State Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg boasts many more fascinating museums. Art buffs need to visit the State Russian Museum, where's the finest collection of Russian art. Housed in the stunning Mikhailovsky Palace, it exhibits Russian artwork from early icons to modern pieces from the 20th century. Literature lovers and bookworms will love the Pushkin and Dostoevsky Museums. Both museums are located inside the former apartments of the writers, featuring their personal objects and working studies where they wrote literal masterpieces. Another interesting museum is the Faberge Museum, museum of decorative art featuring the largest collection of famous Faberge Easter Eggs.

7/10 SLIDES © Andrey Kekyalyaynen/123RF

Go museum hopping

Besides State Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg boasts many more fascinating museums. Art buffs need to visit the State Russian Museum, where’s the finest collection of Russian art. Housed in the stunning Mikhailovsky Palace, it exhibits Russian artwork from early icons to modern pieces from the 20th century.
Literature lovers and bookworms will love the Pushkin and Dostoevsky Museums. Both museums are located inside the former apartments of the writers, featuring their personal objects and working studies where they wrote literal masterpieces. Another interesting museum is the Faberge Museum, museum of decorative art featuring the largest collection of famous Faberge Easter Eggs.

Slide 8 of 10: Home to the most iconic golden dome of Russia, St. Isaac's Cathedral was once the largest in the country until Church of Christ the Savior in Moscow was rebuilt. It's ranked as one of the largest cathedrals in the world, so it's no surprise it's one of the most fascinating landmarks in the whole country. The interior of the church is decorated with lavish ornaments, detailed mosaic icons and paintings. The major draw for tourists is the dome of the Cathedral, plated with pure gold. You can climb 300 steps up to the colonnade and enjoy the most splendid and magnificent view over the city.

8/10 SLIDES © Artem Sokolov/123RF

Visit The St. Isaac’s Cathedral

Home to the most iconic golden dome of Russia, St. Isaac’s Cathedral was once the largest in the country until Church of Christ the Savior in Moscow was rebuilt. It’s ranked as one of the largest cathedrals in the world, so it’s no surprise it’s one of the most fascinating landmarks in the whole country. The interior of the church is decorated with lavish ornaments, detailed mosaic icons and paintings. The major draw for tourists is the dome of the Cathedral, plated with pure gold. You can climb 300 steps up to the colonnade and enjoy the most splendid and magnificent view over the city.

Slide 9 of 10: Ballet is the national honor of Russians and one of the main pillars of the Russian culture. Russia is home to the world's most famous opera and ballet theatres and one of them is the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg. Lavish interior of the theatre will make you travel back in time and feel like nobility. Here you can have a chance to see live some of the best ballet shows on earth, with a jaw-dropping orchestra and top-notch dancers.

9/10 SLIDES © Lilyana Vynogradova/123RF

Watch a ballet show at Mariinsky Theatre

Ballet is the national honor of Russians and one of the main pillars of the Russian culture. Russia is home to the world’s most famous opera and ballet theatres and one of them is the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg. Lavish interior of the theatre will make you travel back in time and feel like nobility. Here you can have a chance to see live some of the best ballet shows on earth, with a jaw-dropping orchestra and top-notch dancers.

Slide 10 of 10: Russia has a celebrated drinking culture with vodka as the country's national drink. Vodka is the most famous alcoholic drink in the country and in Saint Petersburg you can even visit the museum dedicated to the iconic drink. To drink like a true Russian, don't mix vodka with soda because Russians drink it as a shot, all by itself. Saint Petersburg boasts great nightlife, vibrant clubs and bars spread all over the city, ideal to taste some real Russian vodka!

10/10 SLIDES © Jakub Gojda/123RF

Drink vodka in bustling bars

Russia has a celebrated drinking culture with vodka as the country’s national drink. Vodka is the most famous alcoholic drink in the country and in Saint Petersburg you can even visit the museum dedicated to the iconic drink. To drink like a true Russian, don’t mix vodka with soda because Russians drink it as a shot, all by itself. Saint Petersburg boasts great nightlife, vibrant clubs and bars spread all over the city, ideal to taste some real Russian vodka!

10 Cool Things to do in Maui Hawaii

Although you can enjoy the most opulent of luxury in Maui, the majority of people visit the island to see its untamed beauty. Whether you are walking along side a volcano, surfing the waves, or taking the most exhilarating drive of your life!

Read on to learn about the best places to stay in Maui, as well as some fun and free things to do in Maui.

Don’t forget to comment below and let us know where your favorite spot in Maui is!

Maui Vacation Tips | Where to stay in Maui

Four Seasons Resort in Wailea

Best Places to Visit in Maui and the best Hawaii travel tips including which resort your should stay in! #maui #hawaii #resorts #hotel #traveltips #usatravel #beach #beachvacation #vacation #avenlylane #avenlylanetravel

This is one of the more expensive resorts on Maui, but it’s also one of the most fantastic. If you are looking for the ultimate in beauty, food, and pampering, then you should stay here.

Hotel Wailea

This hotel is fairly small, with under a hundred guest rooms. This, and the fact that it is far away from the road and any other noise pollution, makes it the perfect place to stay in peace and quiet. You definitely don’t need to stay in a Maui vacation Villa to have a great stay in Maui.

The Inn at Mama´s Fish House

Mama’s Fish House is the famous restaurant on Maui, but most visitors have no idea that you can actually stay there. The suites and beach houses are very affordable. It is one of the best places to stay in.

Free Things to Do in Maui

Looking for more inspiration to add to you Hawaii bucket list? Me too! And I have always felt that you can make almost any trip affordable. We went to Iceland after everyone was complaining about how expensive it was, it wasn’t for us. We brought granola bars and fruit to eat, made sure our hotel had free parking, free wifi, and most importantly free breakfast.

I am not saying a trip to Hawaii or Iceland is going to cost you nothing. But it doesn’t have to be as expensive as you think. There are so many cool things to do in Maui that are completely free or really cheap, starting with a few of my favorite hikes and waterfalls!

Seven Sacred Pools

The Seven Sacred Pools are one of the most popular attractions in Maui. This beautiful park has pools for swimming and waterfalls. Even though it is prohibited, you will often see people jumping down the waterfalls.

If you have a chance to go, make sure to get there as early as possible as it can get quite crowded later in the day.

Drive the Road to Hana

You will probably feel like you’re about to die during every one of the 600 hairpin turns on the Hana Highway. However, you won’t regret the awesome photo ops—or the dinner waiting for you at Mama’s Fish House once you arrive. How many miles is the road to Hana?

Just over 64, but you’ll have plenty of interesting stops along the way.

Check out the Waikamoi Nature Trail, Upper Waikani Falls, Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach in Maui and the incredible area of Haiku-Pauwela.

Best cheap things to do in Maui! Area of Haiku-Pauwela on the road to Hana.

Black Sand Beach in Maui – one of the best beaches in Hawaii!

Black Sand Beach in Maui - one of the best beaches in Hawaii!

Am I the only one that had no idea these trees even existed? Rainbow tree bark on the Eucalyptus trees! The various colors form due to the outer layer of the tree continually peeling away and changing colors.

Kaihalulu Beach

10 Best Things to do in Maui! Including visiting the red sand beach in Hawaii

Most people are surprised to learn that Hawaii features some exquisitely beautiful red sand beaches. Kaihalulu Beach in Hana, Hawaii is one place where you can observe this phenomenon, but be prepared for a decent hike to uncover this gem.

This is one of the best beaches in Hawaii but it can be a little tricky to get to as the trail is pretty steep. Make sure if you go you bring proper shoes and take extra caution if it is wet or raining.

Also worth noting is that due to the secluded nature of this little piece of paradise, Kaihalulu is known unofficially as a clothing-optional beach. So don’t be surprised if you end up seeing some things you weren’t quite prepared for.

Waimoku Falls

If you take Pipiwai Trail on the Road to Hana, you’ll end up at Waimoku falls. A long hike of a few hours will bring you to a thundering sheet of water cascading down a sheer volcanic rock face. Stunning!

Haleakala Summit

Haleakala National Park is one of the best cheap things to do in Maui. You won’t find any beaches or tropical vegetation here—just the moonlike landscape of a dramatic volcano!

Top 10 Things to do on a Maui Vacation, Hawaii! Visit avenlylanetravel.com to explore some of the most incredible beaches, waterfalls, hikes and things to do in Maui. Need help planning your Hawaii vacation? These Hawaiian travel tips will help to make sure you don't miss the best places to see in Maui. #hawaii #maui #islands #usatravel

Haleakala Crater

Hiking Haleakala Crater is a tough climb, but it’s worth it. The views here are incredible!

Heart Shaped Rock Hike

Heart Shaped Rock in Maui!

Although most people call this the heart shaped rock, it is more of a heart shaped hole. Either way, this romantic spot is definitely worth a visit. It is located right by the Nakalele Blowhole. Which just so happens to be our next point, so keep reading!

Nakalele Blowhole

You (probably) won’t see a volcanic explosion while in Maui, but the Nakalele Blowhole is the next best thing. This is a geyser of seawater that explodes from a rock beside the ocean. Be sure to bring your camera!

Take a Helicopter Tour of the Island

This isn’t a cheap thing to do on Maui, but it’s a worthwhile thing to do! If you want to see the whole island, you can’t beat this view. Some tours also take you over the hard-to-access island of Molokai.

There’s so much to do on Maui! What will you do first—hike, fly in a helicopter, or take in the views? Whatever you choose, you’ll be sure to have an exhilarating adventure and an incredible stay on Maui.

Go for a swim at Twin Falls

There are so many incredible waterfalls in Hawaii, Twin Falls is just one of my favorites. Make sure to also check out the Twin Falls Maui Farm Stand before hitting the trails. There is nothing more refreshing than some fresh coconut water straight from the coconut itself.

Tickets to Brazil Are in High Demand as Visa Restrictions End

© mikolajn / iStock / Getty Images Plus Cable car going to Sugarloaf mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Travelers are scrambling to get plane tickets to Brazil now that the country has erased the need for a visa.

Australian, Canadian, Japanese and American tourists will no longer need a visa starting June 17, 2019, and a new Kayak survey revealed searches for flights have shown double-digit increases. The highest increase was registered in Australia (36 percent), followed by the United States (31 percent), Canada (19 percent) and Japan (4 percent).

The end of the visa requirement came about as part of a decree from the Brazilian government. Visitors arriving with valid passports and intending to visit Brazil for leisure and business tourism, artistic or sports activities or exceptional situations of national interest are able to visit without a visa for 90 days, extendable for another 90 days.

Travelers don’t have to wait to visit Brazil, however. The country relaxed visa restrictionslast year, and electronic visas are easily obtainable.

When the move to the electronic visa process was made last year, there was a similar push from these four countries, boosting arrivals to Brazil. In 2018, the country received more than 715,000 tourists from Australia, Japan, the U.S. and Canada, a number 15 percent higher than in 2017.

Specifically, the U.S. sent more than 500,000 tourists to Brazil in 2018, an increase of 13 percent. More than 71,000 Canadians headed to the country, 45 percent more than in 2017. Australia recorded a growth of 25 percent, and Japan, 5 percent.

These Countries’ Citizens Travel the Most

© Hong Kong Tourism Board Asian Shoppers

Get Going travel insurance looked at the most traveled nations and has awarded China the “Champions of Travel.”

With their massive population, Chinese nationals have been monumental to the travel industry spending over a quarter of a trillion dollars which is more than that of the U.S. and Germany combined.

Coming in at second, the U.S. has increased its tourism spending to over $135 billion, which is pretty significant since only 42 percent of Americans own a passport.

Germany takes the cake for the most traveled citizens in Europe as they spent $90 billion last year. The country was followed by the U.K. which spent $71 billion in 2018.

But where do all of these travelers go? In terms of the U.S., about 35.1 million Americans visit Mexico each year, while only 14.3 million visit Canada. Only 5 million Americans leave North America for the U.K. and France.

The Brits are always on the prowl for sun it seems as they most often travel to Spain or France. While Canada didn’t make it in the top four, their citizens average 632 air miles per person and tend to travel to the U.K., Cuba and Germany.

Get Going also discovered that some countries are outnumbered by tourists. Andorra, for example, had 3 million arrivals last year which put its tourist to residents ratio at 1:39. Macao, similarly, had 17 million visitors last year, and with a population of only 630,000 people, it’s no wonder they came in second on the most tourist-heavy areas.

“Travel around the world seems easier than it ever has been, and more and more nations seem to be holidaying further afield than in years gone by. The research is a good way to look at where money is being spent and who is benefiting from it,” Get Going Spokesperson Josh Hancock said.

5 Reasons Why Every Entrepreneur Needs to Travel to Improve Their Business

Some entrepreneurs believe travel to be nice but unnecessary. Or, a waste of their time, when they could be in their office, nurturing leads or making sales calls. The other half knows that it’s important, but don’t feel like it could benefit them or their business, even if it is a working vacation.

I’ve been traveling around the world for over 20 years, both for business and personal reasons, and I’m 100 percent positive that traveling has made me a better person and businessmen in numerous ways. So, to help you see what so many of us traveling entrepreneurs already know, I’ve gathered a few reasons why traveling alone or with colleagues should be one of your top priorities in your business.

1. It prevents burnout.

Burnout is one of the worst things that can happen to an entrepreneur. When you’re constantly working with no end in sight, the only thing you can and will see is burnout. That’s why you need a break from work. And I don’t mean leaving your office desk to go home and work in your home office.

To prevent workplace burnout, you need to travel. It can help you decompress and take your mind off your business, even if it’s only for a few days. Sure, traveling has its own set of problems, but once again, it helps you focus on something other than your business. When you return from your travels, you’ll be using your brain at full capacity and feeling more relaxed.

2. It can inspire you.

When you’re stuck at your desk all day, you’re likely not learning new things or analyzing different perspectives. Thus, your creative muscles aren’t stimulated, so you feel like there’s nothing more to add. But how can you know that if you’re not going places and experiencing life?

Traveling to foreign countries helps you recharge your creative energy. You’ll notice the way people interact, their values, and how they do certain things. All these factors combined might lead to you launching a new product that helps to solve a problem for your customers that you wasn’t aware of before. Or, you might find a different perspective on a problem you’re facing in your business.

You’d be surprised what connection your brain can make when you travel to other cultures, and how those connections might be the catalyst to help propel your business forward.

3. Travel improves your adaptive skills.

Being an entrepreneur means constantly being thrown out of your comfort zone and having to do things that you would prefer not to so your business doesn’t fail. That means you need to always be able to adapt to the changes that present themselves to you. Travel is one way to push your boundaries.

One way I’ve done this is by traveling to places I’ve never gone before. One thing I used to do was travel to the same city, stay at the same hotel chain, and eat at the same restaurants. I was traveling, but I was traveling in my comfort zone.

I felt like I was missing something and traveling wasn’t the same. Once, I noticed that it was because traveling had become too comfortable to me, I decided to switch it up.

I started going to different countries and interacting with diverse cultures and people. It forced me to adapt to my surroundings and learn how to fit in. I wanted to enjoy my trip so I got past my limitations and started to enjoy traveling again.

Like it did for me, traveling can help you to change what you consider your comfort zone until nothing intimidates you and you start to thrive from the curve balls life throws at you.

4. It helps you read people.

As I mentioned before, I would travel to different countries and interact with people whose language I wasn’t well-versed in. To communicate more efficiently, I learned to read their body language, facial expressions, hand gestures and tone, anything that would help me understand what they were trying to tell me.

Learning to read people is a critical skill to have when conducting business, especially if you have international clients who have different social norms.

5. Travel can grow your network.

Whether you’re traveling for business or personal reasons, you can meet new people and make meaningful connections. I’ve gone to conferences and meet colleagues and potential clients. But I’ve also built relationships with people who wanted to learn more about traveling.

Some of them turned out to be great friends and years later, we still occasionally chat and if I’m nearby, we’ll meet up. It’s no guarantee that you’ll meet lifelong friends on your trip, but it’s possible to spread the word of your business and help others or learn from them.

Tickets to Brazil Are in High Demand as Visa Restrictions End

a view of a mountain: Cable car going to Sugarloaf mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Travelers are scrambling to get plane tickets to Brazil now that the country has erased the need for a visa.Australian, Canadian, Japanese and American tourists will no longer need a visa starting June 17, 2019, and a new Kayak survey revealed searches for flights have shown double-digit increases. The highest increase was registered in Australia (36 percent), followed by the United States (31 percent), Canada (19 percent) and Japan (4 percent).

Travelers don’t have to wait to visit Brazil, however. The country relaxed visa restrictionslast year, and electronic visas are easily obtainable.

World’s most stunning stately homes you can actually explore

Slide 1 of 30: From castles to palaces, halls to manor houses, weâve rounded up some of the worldâs finest stately homes which also happen to be open to visitors. Go ahead, be our guestâ¦

1/30 SLIDES © Leonid Andronov/Shutterstock

The world’s stateliest homes

From castles to palaces, halls to manor houses, we’ve rounded up some of the world’s finest stately homes which also happen to be open to visitors. Go ahead, be our guest…

Slide 2 of 30: This extravagant 70-room country home in Newport, Rhode Island belonged to the Vanderbilts. Inspired by the 16th-century palaces of Genoa and Turin, Commodore Vanderbiltâs grandson Cornelius commissioned the renovation of this once wooden âcottageâ and transformed it into an Italian Renaissance-style palazzo. Its lavishly decorated rooms (think platinum, marble and intricate stonework) are now open to the public throughout the year.

2/30 SLIDES © Bodhichita/Shutterstock

The Breakers, Rhode Island, USA

This extravagant 70-room country home in Newport, Rhode Island belonged to the Vanderbilts. Inspired by the 16th-century palaces of Genoa and Turin, Commodore Vanderbilt’s grandson Cornelius commissioned the renovation of this once wooden ‘cottage’ and transformed it into an Italian Renaissance-style palazzo. Its lavishly decorated rooms (think platinum, marble and intricate stonework) are now open to the public throughout the year.

Slide 3 of 30: This UNESCO World Heritage site has been home to many a knight and royal over the years and itâs now Franceâs second most-visited tourist attraction, after the Eiffel Tower. This medieval citadel comprises a staggering 53 towers, joined by walls and surrounded by a moat. Within the fortifications, thereâs plenty to explore including a castle, church and even a small town. The views from the top of the hill more than make up for the crowds too.

3/30 SLIDES © Rolf E. Staerk/Shutterstock

Castle of Carcassonne, Carcassonne, France

This UNESCO World Heritage site has been home to many a knight and royal over the years and it’s now France’s second most-visited tourist attraction, after the Eiffel Tower. This medieval citadel comprises a staggering 53 towers, joined by walls and surrounded by a moat. Within the fortifications, there’s plenty to explore including a castle, church and even a small town. The views from the top of the hill more than make up for the crowds too.

Slide 4 of 30: Americaâs largest home, built by George Vanderbilt II, is modeled on the ChÃ¢teau de Blois in France's Loire Valley. This impressive mansion was built over a six-year period (1889-1895) and boasts more than 250 exquisitely-decorated rooms. Itâs open to the public 365 days a year. While there, why not visit the estateâs winery, six restaurants or even stay the night?

4/30 SLIDES © Zak Zienert/Shutterstock

Biltmore Estate, North Carolina, USA

America’s largest home, built by George Vanderbilt II, is modeled on the Château de Blois in France’s Loire Valley. This impressive mansion was built over a six-year period (1889-1895) and boasts more than 250 exquisitely-decorated rooms. It’s open to the public 365 days a year. While there, why not visit the estate’s winery, six restaurants or even stay the night?

Slide 5 of 30: This Gothic Revival-style mansion and gardens should be on any Toronto must-visit list. Constructed between 1911 and 1914 (it took 300 workers to build), it was the former residence of financier Sir Henry Pellatt. It was meant to have three bowling alleys in the basement aloneÂ but construction halted with the outbreak of the First World War. Today, itâs open to the publicÂ (it can even be rented out in the evening) and itâs also a popular filming location for TV shows and movies, including X-Men. Discover more Toronto highlights here.

5/30 SLIDES © Jon Bilous/Shutterstock

Casa Loma, Toronto, Canada

This Gothic Revival-style mansion and gardens should be on any Toronto must-visit list. Constructed between 1911 and 1914 (it took 300 workers to build), it was the former residence of financier Sir Henry Pellatt. It was meant to have three bowling alleys in the basement alone but construction halted with the outbreak of the First World War. Today, it’s open to the public (it can even be rented out in the evening) and it’s also a popular filming location for TV shows and movies, including X-Men.

Slide 6 of 30: This striking Baroque-style palace was the official residence of many a Russian Tsar from 1732 to 1917. Today, visitors can take a look around the expansive palace which now forms part of the Hermitage Museum (the largest art gallery in Russia). The palace boasts a whopping 1,945 windows, 1,786 doors and 1,057 lavishly-decorated rooms â many of which are open to the public.

6/30 SLIDES © Katvic/Shutterstock

Winter Palace, St Petersburg, Russia

This striking Baroque-style palace was the official residence of many a Russian Tsar from 1732 to 1917. Today, visitors can take a look around the expansive palace which now forms part of the Hermitage Museum (the largest art gallery in Russia). The palace boasts a whopping 1,945 windows, 1,786 doors and 1,057 lavishly-decorated rooms – many of which are open to the public.

Slide 7 of 30: The Queenâs official London residence opens its doors to the public every summer. On top of being able to take a sneak peek behind the scenes of a working palace, itâs also an opportunity to explore the palaceâs lavish interiors and 19 state rooms. Visitors can feast their eyes on paintings by the likes of Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer and Poussin. Read our full guide to London here.

7/30 SLIDES © Ewelina Wachala/Shutterstock

Buckingham Palace, London, UK

The Queen’s official London residence opens its doors to the public every summer. On top of being able to take a sneak peek behind the scenes of a working palace, it’s also an opportunity to explore the palace’s lavish interiors and 19 state rooms. Visitors can feast their eyes on paintings by the likes of Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer and Poussin.

Slide 8 of 30: The primary residence of Japanâs Imperial family, Tokyoâs Imperial Palace is set within a series of gardensÂ on the former site of Edo (the name previouslyÂ given to Tokyo). Guided tours of the grounds take place throughout the year and while no buildings are entered, theyâre a great opportunity to explore the gardens â and some of the most expensive real estate in the world. The Imperial Family make balcony appearancesÂ on 2 JanuaryÂ and 23 December each year. Once you've discovered allÂ Tokyo has to offer, find the best weekend trips from the city here.

8/30 SLIDES © Brown PS/Shutterstock

Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Japan

The primary residence of Japan’s Imperial family, Tokyo’s Imperial Palace is set within a series of gardens on the former site of Edo (the name previously given to Tokyo). Guided tours of the grounds take place throughout the year and while no buildings are entered, they’re a great opportunity to explore the gardens – and some of the most expensive real estate in the world. The Imperial Family make balcony appearances on 2 January and 23 December each year. Once you’ve discovered all Tokyo has to offer, find the best weekend trips from the city here.

Slide 9 of 30: Also known as the castle âin love with the windâ, this fairy-tale home was built single-handedly by ex-world champion wrestler Georgi Tumbalov, and itâs a sight to behold. While it may look like a medieval relic, construction only started in 1997. Boasting impressive gardens, an art gallery, summer cinema, horse riding center and even a small zoo, this eye-catching castle is definitely worth a visit.

9/30 SLIDES © Vladimir Shulenin/Shutterstock

The Castle of Ravadinovo, Sozopol, Bulgaria

Also known as the castle “in love with the wind”, this fairy-tale home was built single-handedly by ex-world champion wrestler Georgi Tumbalov, and it’s a sight to behold. While it may look like a medieval relic, construction only started in 1997. Boasting impressive gardens, an art gallery, summer cinema, horse riding center and even a small zoo, this eye-catching castle is definitely worth a visit.

Slide 10 of 30: Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home was built by Robert Lincoln, the son of former president Abraham Lincoln, at the turn of the 20th century. It was primarily used as a summer home and today there is more than enough to explore. As well as the building, you can take a look around the well-kept gardens, a dairy farm and a Pullman car.

10/30 SLIDES © Lee Snider Photo Images/ Shutterstock

Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, Vermont, USA

Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home was built by Robert Lincoln, the son of former president Abraham Lincoln, at the turn of the 20th century. It was primarily used as a summer home and today there is more than enough to explore. As well as the building, you can take a look around the well-kept gardens, a dairy farm and a Pullman car.

Slide 11 of 30: This ornate Jacobethan-style country house, located five miles south of Newbury in Berkshire, has an impressive history. The first written records of the Highclere estate date back to 749Â but itâs most well-knownÂ as the filming location for award-winning TV series and soon to be film, Downton Abbey. Selected events take place throughout the year for the public andÂ the estateâs castle, gardensÂ and Egyptian exhibition can be visited during summer.

11/30 SLIDES © Emily Marie Wilson/Shutterstock

Highclere Castle, Newbury, UK

This ornate Jacobethan-style country house, located five miles south of Newbury in Berkshire, has an impressive history. The first written records of the Highclere estate date back to 749 but it’s most well-known as the filming location for award-winning TV series and soon to be film, Downton Abbey. Selected events take place throughout the year for the public and the estate’s castle, gardens and Egyptian exhibition can be visited during summer.

Slide 12 of 30: Designed by architect Julia Morgan, this historic landmark was the former home of media magnate William Randolph Hearst from 1919 to 1947. While Hearstâs original intentions were modest â he intended to build a bungalow â the outcome was a majestic estate influenced by European architecture, set atop a verdant hill at San Simeon. Itâs open to the public with all manner of tours including art-focused explorations and evening trips.

12/30 SLIDES © Abbie Warnock-Matthews/Shutterstock

Hearst Castle, San Simeon, USA

Designed by architect Julia Morgan, this historic landmark was the former home of media magnate William Randolph Hearst from 1919 to 1947. While Hearst’s original intentions were modest – he intended to build a bungalow – the outcome was a majestic estate influenced by European architecture, set atop a verdant hill at San Simeon. It’s open to the public with all manner of tours including art-focused explorations and evening trips.

Slide 13 of 30: The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill needs no introduction. On top of learning all about the former Prime Ministerâs early years, visitors can explore the palaceâs many state rooms (and portrait, tapestry and furniture collections), roam the tranquil pleasure gardens and lose themselves in the Marlborough Maze. Thereâs also a miniature train for children, organ recitals and forest schools â you may need more than a day to explore!

13/30 SLIDES © Fulcanelli/Shutterstock

Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, UK

The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill needs no introduction. On top of learning all about the former Prime Minister’s early years, visitors can explore the palace’s many state rooms (and portrait, tapestry and furniture collections), roam the tranquil pleasure gardens and lose themselves in the Marlborough Maze. There’s also a miniature train for children, organ recitals and forest schools – you may need more than a day to explore!

Slide 14 of 30: From open-air concerts to garden festivals and weddings, King Henry VIIIâs former residence is no stranger to hosting elaborate events. But regular daytime tours of the environs are also highly recommended. Aside from exploring the grand palace and its artifacts, day-trippers can also visit the stunning gardens and maze, and even participate in Baroque chocolate-making courses in the palaceâs kitchens.

14/30 SLIDES © Kirill Ts/Shutterstock

Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, UK

From open-air concerts to garden festivals and weddings, King Henry VIII’s former residence is no stranger to hosting elaborate events. But regular daytime tours of the environs are also highly recommended. Aside from exploring the grand palace and its artifacts, day-trippers can also visit the stunning gardens and maze, and even participate in Baroque chocolate-making courses in the palace’s kitchens.

Slide 15 of 30: Leeds Castle sits just five miles southeast of Maidstone and celebrates its 900th anniversary this year. Open year round â including Christmas Day â there's plenty of history to soak up (Henry VIII frequented the castle regularly). Visitors can also punt on the moat, enjoy falconry displays, and explore the manicured gardens and mazes.

15/30 SLIDES © Petrin Evgenii/Shutterstock

Leeds Castle, Kent, UK

Leeds Castle sits just five miles southeast of Maidstone and celebrates its 900th anniversary this year. Open year round – including Christmas Day – there’s plenty of history to soak up (Henry VIII frequented the castle regularly). Visitors can also punt on the moat, enjoy falconry displays, and explore the manicured gardens and mazes.

Slide 16 of 30: This Elizabethan gem has a busy year coming up: 2020 marks the 500th anniversary of its founder William Cecil. Expect plenty of celebrations including festivals, concerts, outdoor cinema and food markets. The house and gardens are open daily, plus thereâs even the opportunity to stay overnight in the estateâs dairy.

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Burghley House, Lincolnshire, UK

This Elizabethan gem has a busy year coming up: 2020 marks the 500th anniversary of its founder William Cecil. Expect plenty of celebrations including festivals, concerts, outdoor cinema and food markets. The house and gardens are open daily, plus there’s even the opportunity to stay overnight in the estate’s dairy.

Slide 17 of 30: This pretty tidal island has been home to the St Aubyn family since the 17th century. Accessible by foot via a cobbled causeway at low tide, the castle is open to the public daily (except Saturdays) and organizes all manner of activities including garden tours, foraging, picnics and rockpooling at low tide.

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St Michael’s Mount, Cornwall, UK

This pretty tidal island has been home to the St Aubyn family since the 17th century. Accessible by foot via a cobbled causeway at low tide, the castle is open to the public daily (except Saturdays) and organizes all manner of activities including garden tours, foraging, picnics and rockpooling at low tide.

Slide 18 of 30: This impressive castle and stately home has belonged to the Percy family for more thanÂ 700 years. Itâs also famed for being one of the film locations for Harry PotterÂ so expect plenty of wizard-related activities including dragon quests and broomstick training.

18/30 SLIDES © iLongLoveKing/Shutterstock

Alnwick Castle Northumberland, UK

This impressive castle and stately home has belonged to the Percy family for more than 700 years. It’s also famed for being one of the film locations for Harry Potter so expect plenty of wizard-related activities including dragon quests and broomstick training.

Slide 19 of 30: The principal royal residence of France between 1682 and 1789, Versailles is every bit as splendid as youâd imagine. Located 12 miles southwest of Paris, itâs more than worth a trip. Youâll need the whole day â the museum contains more than 60,000 works, plus the gardens are too grand to miss.

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Palace of Versailles, Paris, France

The principal royal residence of France between 1682 and 1789, Versailles is every bit as splendid as you’d imagine. Located 12 miles southwest of Paris, it’s more than worth a trip. You’ll need the whole day – the museum contains more than 60,000 works, plus the gardens are too grand to miss.

Slide 20 of 30: The largest Renaissance residence in Scandinavia, Frederiksborg Castle is situated to the north of Copenhagen. It was built in the early 17th century by the then-king Christian IV. Today, itâs home to the Museum of National History which is well worth exploring. Whatâs more, the castleâs old wine cellar has been converted into a childrenâs department, offering all sorts of activities including Renaissance dress-up.

20/30 SLIDES © Lepniva Irina/Shutterstock

Frederiksborg Castle, Copenhagen, Denmark

The largest Renaissance residence in Scandinavia, Frederiksborg Castle is situated to the north of Copenhagen. It was built in the early 17th century by the then-king Christian IV. Today, it’s home to the Museum of National History which is well worth exploring. What’s more, the castle’s old wine cellar has been converted into a children’s department, offering all sorts of activities including Renaissance dress-up.

Slide 21 of 30: Holkham Hall, one of Englandâs finest stately halls located just minutes from the scenic Norfolk coast, will be unveiling a number of never-seen-before rooms to the public this year. Book a historical tour between April and October 2019 to see stately rooms such as the Venetian Bedroom and the Old Servantsâ Hall, plus a number of hidden passages, attics and cellars. Discover what else North Norfolk has to offer here.

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Holkham Hall, Norfolk, UK

Holkham Hall, one of England’s finest stately halls located just minutes from the scenic Norfolk coast, will be unveiling a number of never-seen-before rooms to the public this year. Book a historical tour between April and October 2019 to see stately rooms such as the Venetian Bedroom and the Old Servants’ Hall, plus a number of hidden passages, attics and cellars. Discover what else North Norfolk has to offer here.

Slide 22 of 30: One of Londonâs hidden gems, Kenwood House sits to the north of Hampstead Heath and is well worth a wander. Itâs a little-known fact that it also houses an impressive collection of artwork, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Gainsborough. Donât miss the fantastic library, either. Itâs adorned with marble, murals and antique books.

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Kenwood House, London, UK

One of London’s hidden gems, Kenwood House sits to the north of Hampstead Heath and is well worth a wander. It’s a little-known fact that it also houses an impressive collection of artwork, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer and Gainsborough. Don’t miss the fantastic library, either. It’s adorned with marble, murals and antique books.

Slide 23 of 30: Shaped like the bow of a ship, this medieval castle-palace is a sight to behold. While it was originally built as a fortress, it has also served as a state palace and a military academy in its time. Itâs also claimed to be the inspiration behind Walt Disneyâs Cinderella castle. Since being used as a location in hit TV series Game of Thrones, it has become even more popular so book tickets ahead.

23/30 SLIDES © emperorcosar/Shutterstock

Alcázar of Segovia, Spain

Shaped like the bow of a ship, this medieval castle-palace is a sight to behold. While it was originally built as a fortress, it has also served as a state palace and a military academy in its time. It’s also claimed to be the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s Cinderella castle. Since being used as a location in hit TV series Game of Thrones, it has become even more popular so book tickets ahead.

Slide 24 of 30: Chinaâs most-visited tourist attraction is popular for a reason. On top of having been the home to more than 20 emperors in its time, this imposing network of palaces boasts upwards of 90 palace quarters, 900 buildings and 8,000 rooms. Take a whole day to marvel at the medieval wooden structures and keep your eyes peeled for the many animal statues that line the roofs.

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The Forbidden City, Beijing, China

China’s most-visited tourist attraction is popular for a reason. On top of having been the home to more than 20 emperors in its time, this imposing network of palaces boasts upwards of 90 palace quarters, 900 buildings and 8,000 rooms. Take a whole day to marvel at the medieval wooden structures and keep your eyes peeled for the many animal statues that line the roofs.

Slide 25 of 30: This ornate 15th-century palace served as the political headquarters â and residence â of many sultans for almost 400 years. Each sultan added a different element to the palace, which opened to the public in 1924, making it a curious maze of buildings to explore today. Donât miss the sacred relics department on your visit, itâs home to all manner of treasures.

25/30 SLIDES © Ruslan Kalnitsky/Shutterstock

Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, Turkey

This ornate 15th-century palace served as the political headquarters – and residence – of many sultans for almost 400 years. Each sultan added a different element to the palace, which opened to the public in 1924, making it a curious maze of buildings to explore today. Don’t miss the sacred relics department on your visit, it’s home to all manner of treasures.

Slide 26 of 30: A masterpiece of French architecture, ChÃ¢teau de Chambord is one of the most recognized castles in the world and it exemplifies classical Renaissance style. Itâs thought that Leonardo da Vinci was involved in its design. Chambord celebrates its 500th anniversary this year, making it the perfect time to explore. On-site activities include horse and birds of prey shows, boat tours, hiking trails and horse-drawn carriage rides.

26/30 SLIDES © Leonid Andronov/Shutterstock

Château de Chambord, Loire Valley, France

A masterpiece of French architecture, Château de Chambord is one of the most recognized castles in the world and it exemplifies classical Renaissance style. It’s thought that Leonardo da Vinci was involved in its design. Chambord celebrates its 500th anniversary this year, making it the perfect time to explore. On-site activities include horse and birds of prey shows, boat tours, hiking trails and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Slide 27 of 30: In 1886, Neuschwanstein Castle opened its doors to visitors and people have been coming in their droves ever since. This majestic castle was the brainchild of Ludwig II, King of Bavaria, who used it to hide away from the public eye. While heavy restoration work is ongoing, all rooms are open to look around and like Spainâs AlcÃ¡zar of Segovia, itâs also said to have inspired Walt Disney.

27/30 SLIDES © Serghei Vlasenco/Shutterstock

Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany

In 1886, Neuschwanstein Castle opened its doors to visitors and people have been coming in their droves ever since. This majestic castle was the brainchild of Ludwig II, King of Bavaria, who used it to hide away from the public eye. While heavy restoration work is ongoing, all rooms are open to look around and like Spain’s Alcázar of Segovia, it’s also said to have inspired Walt Disney.

Slide 28 of 30: One of the largest palaces in India, Mysore Palace was restored by English architect Henry Unwin in 1912. With its striking gold dome and ornate archways, the exterior is a sight to behold and the interiors are just as impressive. Thereâs a lot to pack into a day but be sure to check out the Public Durbar Hall and the Dollâs Pavilion. Visit on a Sunday or public holidays to see the palace illuminated by 97,000 lights.

Read more: 15 spectacular American castles you didn't know existed

Mysore Palace, Karnataka State, India

Slide 29 of 30: Wentworth Woodhouse is one of the largest houses in EuropeÂ and double the size of Buckingham Palace. Boasting five miles of corridors and 80 acres of pleasure gardens, itâs a guaranteed great day out. There are three tours to choose from and if you book onto all three, be sure to reward yourself with theÂ newly-launched afternoon tea at the end.

Read more: 50 of the most beautiful small towns in the world — One of the largest palaces in India, Mysore Palace was restored by English architect Henry Unwin in 1912. With its striking gold dome and ornate archways, the exterior is a sight to behold and the interiors are just as impressive. There’s a lot to pack into a day but be sure to check out the Public Durbar Hall and the Doll’s Pavilion. Visit on a Sunday or public holidays to see the palace illuminated by 97,000 lights.

Wentworth Woodhouse, Yorkshire, UK

Wentworth Woodhouse is one of the largest houses in Europe and double the size of Buckingham Palace. Boasting five miles of corridors and 80 acres of pleasure gardens, it’s a guaranteed great day out. There are three tours to choose from and if you book onto all three, be sure to reward yourself with the newly-launched afternoon tea at the end.

Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal

Located just outside of Lisbon, Pena Palace sits regally atop Sintra’s verdant hills and it looks every bit like something out of a fairy tale. Pastel-hued and boasting various domes and turrets, this striking palace, which housed a number of Portuguese royals throughout the ages, typifies 19th-century Romanticist architecture.

Slide 30 of 30: Located just outside of Lisbon, Pena Palace sits regally atop Sintraâs verdant hills and it looks every bit like something out of a fairy tale. Pastel-hued and boasting various domes and turrets, this striking palace, which housed a number of Portuguese royals throughout the ages, typifies 19th-century Romanticist architecture.

Read more: Britain's prettiest palaces fit for a queen — One of the largest palaces in India, Mysore Palace was restored by English architect Henry Unwin in 1912. With its striking gold dome and ornate archways, the exterior is a sight to behold and the interiors are just as impressive. There’s a lot to pack into a day but be sure to check out the Public Durbar Hall and the Doll’s Pavilion. Visit on a Sunday or public holidays to see the palace illuminated by 97,000 lights.

Wentworth Woodhouse, Yorkshire, UK

Wentworth Woodhouse is one of the largest houses in Europe and double the size of Buckingham Palace. Boasting five miles of corridors and 80 acres of pleasure gardens, it’s a guaranteed great day out. There are three tours to choose from and if you book onto all three, be sure to reward yourself with the newly-launched afternoon tea at the end.

Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal

Located just outside of Lisbon, Pena Palace sits regally atop Sintra’s verdant hills and it looks every bit like something out of a fairy tale. Pastel-hued and boasting various domes and turrets, this striking palace, which housed a number of Portuguese royals throughout the ages, typifies 19th-century Romanticist architecture.

Exploring Beruwala And Bentota, Sri Lanka

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After seeing wild elephants in Udawalawe, we spent the remainder of the evening, relaxing poolside, glasses of bubbly at-the-ready…

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The next morning we set about exploring a place I’d never heard of before visiting – Beruwala (which was part of our travel plan that you can see in our complete guide, below).

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Beruwala is also a seaside town and after wandering around the town, we ended up in at the Kande Viharaya Temple, with its rather impressive Big Buddha.

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We wandered around the temple (remember, in Sri Lanka, you have to walk around temples with your right arm facing the temples i.e. in a clockwise manner), before heading down to the town…

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…past the railway and hopped into the car in search of our next home in Sri Lanka – The Vivanta by Taj.

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On the face of it (ignoring the grand entrance), the Vivanta by Taj seems like a relatively small hotel… this is of course until you start exploring it many hallways and realise that you could quite easily get lost here. This is not a bad thing, of course, there’s something to be said for a hotel that still has an intimate feel despite being fairly large.

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We checked in fairly quickly, arriving to a bottle of wine and rather colourful sweets, both of which I ignored in rather uncharacteristic fashion as I headed over to the spa for a massage booked in by TUI prior to our arrival. I’m a sucker for a good massage and I started to get the idea that the folks at TUI definitely knew this before we even arrived in Sri Lanka.

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Massages over, I set out to relax by the hotel pool with lunch and cocktails…

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…before heading down to the beach with the girls for a little wander around.

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The rain soon cleared us all off the beach and so we headed back to the shaded area by the pool, ordered up some more cocktails and pretty much spent the rest of the afternoon/early evening sampling our way through the rather varied cocktail menu.

Dinner that evening was finally in the outdoor restaurant (I’d wanted to dine al fresco since we arrived) and we were treated to what I can only describe as a seafood cornucopia! *licks lips*It was amazing and easily one of the best meals we’d had all week (can’t even remember what I had for dessert – the main meal was THAT delicious).

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Alas, that evening was our final evening in Sri Lanka on our trip as the next day, we packed up our things up (after breakfast, of course) and made our way back to Colombo airport for our flight back home.

Now, although you’d think coming back to Sri Lanka and having a totally different experience this would leave me feeling accomplished with seeing a lot more of Sri Lanka (I’d seen so many amazing and diverse part of Sri Lanka over almost 2 weeks thus far), I actually left Sri Lanka, only more eager to return and discover even more parts of this beautiful country!

25 Travel Tips & Tricks for Europe

Summer travel season is upon us! Which means several of you will be making the hop across the pond. Currently, I have zero plans to visit Europe this summer (although, Spain is slowly making it’s way onto my radar), but I will be living vicariously through you all!

Both of my little sisters will be spending their summer in Europe (in different places) — I couldn’t be more excited for them! I’ve been helping them book their travels, as well as numerous of their friends (thanks for following along ladies!).

I started to compile a list of items for them, but figured why not share it with you all! I’ve been lucky enough to travel Europe a few different ways — from trips with my families, luxury hotel stays to hopping on and off trains whilst staying in hostels.

Here are a few European travel tips & tricks I’ve picked up along the way:

1. Avoid restaurants in the city squares. Or near any major tour attractions.

2. Picnic, picnic, picnic. Grab a (euro) baguette, cheese, a bottle of wine (Paris has no outside liquor laws), and snag a grassy area.

3. Plan to use cash. Although credit cards are accepted, and ATMS are everywhere — I still run into the occasionally hiccup. Cash is also a better way to budget out your days.

4. Hostels. LOVE THEM. It’s a great place to meet fellow travelers and most hostels have free events for guests. If you are traveling with friends, book a private room!

5. Student Discounts. Bring your student ID, and ask away. You’ll be surprised how many entrance fees can be waived.

6. Free Walking Tour. Every city has one. Sign up and enjoy!

7. Trains. Personally, trains are my favorite way to see Europe. If you are planning to hop around, look into the Eurorail pass. Tickets don’t have to be booked in advance and reserved seats are cheaper!

8. Wifi. It’s free and it’s everywhere — just ask for the password!

9. Public bathrooms are hard to find. If you are at a museum or large attraction, be sure to make a pit stop at the “water closets.” You’ll most likely be paying a euro or two if you’re out and about.

10. Take a look at Eastern Europe. It’s sooo much cheaper than Western Europe, you’ll be amazed how far you’re money will go and there’s so much to see!

11. Keep your iPhone out of view. I’ve seen so many iPhones snagged while the person is taking a photo or texting.

12. Table Wine. It’s cheap and it’s delicious.

13. Bike Locks. If you are traveling by train, you’ll want to bike lock your suitcase or bag to the luggage racks. This will deter anyone from taking your bag at one of the many stops.

14. Comfortable Shoes. Most roads are cobblestone — leave the pumps at home.

15. Drinking from water fountains — totally normal and safe. If you find yourself in Switzerland, the water coming from the faucet will most likely be Evian. With that…

16. Bring a water bottle.

17. Aperitif Hour. It will soon be your best friend. Purchase a drink and all the appetizers are included. You’ll find this advertised throughout Italy.

18. Don’t try to see “all of Europe.” The worst thing I see people do is try to cram everything into one trip. Take time, relax, and enjoy the slower pace.

19. Travel plans can change and should change. After hearing about a cool city or attraction, I have changed my plans in a days notice. In fact, I encourage you to do so!

20. Big and small cities. Visit a mixture of both. You’ll get more a “local feel” in the smaller towns, and probably eat some incredible food.

21. Don’t overplan. Repeat, you do not have to have every minute of every day planned.

22. Ask people to take your picture. As awkward as it may seem, you’ll regret not having a picture of yourself in front of the Eiffel Tower.

23. Strikes. They are all too common in Europe. Keep an eye out for signs, and if you find yourself stranded, don’t panic. Enjoy the extra time in your current location.

24. Bike Tours. This is my absolute favorite way to see a new city. You’ll get the lay of the land, and it will give you some ideas of what parts of the city you’ll want to explore. Check out Fat Bike Tour.

25. Pub Crawls. If you are going to go out, I recommend pub crawls with your hostel or any other small group. You’ll be with a large crowd, and have people that will notice if someone or something “isn’t quite right.”

5 Travel Tips For Planning a Stress-Free Vacation

You booked that fall getaway to escape the stresses of everyday life, not trade them in for new ones. As relaxing as going out of town can be, a few unplanned events can easily turn your trip into an overwhelming situation. Follow these tips to keep your vacation memorable and, most importantly, stress-free.

Take the pressure off.

Ever felt the need to make a Friday night so fun that it ended up being the complete opposite? When you’ve got limited vacation days on top of a hectic work schedule, an upcoming trip can easily become the only thing you look forward to for months. Tons of pressure to make that vacation perfect can end up backfiring on you. Just think of it as a Monday night that just so happens to become one of the highlights of your month. Sometimes the best memories you make on vacation are those that unexpectedly come from a good conversation, a tasty meal, and the wonderful people around you.

Keep a loose, flexible itinerary.

It’s important to remember that unplanned events can account for a lot of your vacation time. You don’t want a delayed flight, slight snooze, or cancelled tour to throw your entire itinerary off. Try to plan some activities for specific days, but leave some days completely open. When your schedule’s flexible, you’re not rushing to complete everything on your travel wish list; you’re exploring a hidden street, catching up on sleep at the beach for a few hours, or relaxing at a cafe over an espresso. You’re learning to enjoy the down time, which is the entire reason you went on vacation in the first place.

Set a collective goal for your trip.

Traveling with others can become extremely stressful at times, because everyone has a different set of preferences. What if your partner wants a beach day, and you want to go explore the old town? What if your friends expected this trip to be a party weekend, and you’ve been looking forward to bubble baths and watching movies in your hotel bed? When planning your vacation with other people, have a discussion with your group to set a collective goal for the upcoming trip—are you aiming for relaxation, adventure, romance, or celebration? Doing this will avoid those awkward moments when you realize that your expectations differ from theirs.

Do your research in advance.

It is and always will be a good idea to do as much research as you can about your destination: Look into everything from public transportation, restaurant options, cab estimates, and visa requirements. The more you know before you leave, the better.

Pack light.

We’ve all been guilty of overpacking. Too much luggage makes the inescapable struggles of travel—getting to and from the airport, waiting to check into your hotel, dealing with baggage claim—that much more difficult. Keep your clothing options easy and only pack the necessities—easier said than done, I know, but there are certain things you can leave behind. Air dry your hair, and leave your blowdryer at home. Don’t pack the heels you know you’ll never wear, and pack your comfortable sandals instead. Avoid baggage claim by fitting everything you bring into your carry-on. We promise it’s better to underpack and be comfortable than to overpack and be exhausted.