Airlines Offering Free and Discounted Stopovers When planning a trip, especially a long-haul flight, a stopover can be a fantastic way to break up the journey and explore a new city without any additional airfare costs. Many airlines offer stopover programs, sometimes even for free, giving travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture, experience iconic landmarks, and enjoy local cuisines during their journey. Here’s a closer look at some of the airlines offering these enticing stopover options: What is a Stopover?A stopover occurs when a flight lands at an interim destination for an extended period, typically between 24 hours and ten days, before continuing to the final destination. Unlike a layover, which is usually brief and confined to the airport, a stopover allows passengers to leave the airport and explore the city, often staying in hotels that may be offered for free or at discounted rates by the airline. Stopovers can transform a long journey into an adventure, providing a unique opportunity to explore new cities such as Lisbon, Tokyo, or Abu Dhabi. Here’s how various airlines enhance your travel experience with their stopover programs: Airlines Offering Stopovers1. TAP Air Portugal: Lisbon and PortoTAP Air Portugal offers a free stopover in Lisbon or Porto for up to ten days on both outbound and return trips. Travelers enjoy discounts on domestic flights during their stopover, along with attractive hotel deals in Lisbon, Porto, and the Azores. Additionally, discounts on city cards provide free entry to museums and other cultural sites, making your stay in Portugal even more enriching.
2. Etihad Airways: Abu DhabiAbu Dhabi, a city rich in Arabian culture and modern attractions, is an ideal stopover destination with Etihad Airways. The airline offers exclusive discounts of up to 40% at luxury hotels and complimentary stays for up to two nights at select hotels. Additionally, your Etihad boarding pass doubles as an Abu Dhabi pass, unlocking exclusive deals and discounts across the city. 3. Qatar Airways: DohaWith Qatar Airways, you can enjoy a stopover in Doha for one to four nights. While accommodation isn’t free, the airline offers heavily discounted hotel packages, including stays in 4-star and luxury 5-star hotels. Travelers can also book discounted tours and excursions, such as a two-day cultural immersion in Doha, exploring traditional souqs, museums, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. 4. Icelandair: ReykjavikIcelandair allows passengers to stopover in Reykjavik for up to seven days without additional airfare. Although hotels are not complimentary, the airline offers ready-made itineraries for exploring Iceland’s unique landscapes, such as the Blue Lagoon and the Golden Circle. The stopover can be easily booked online, allowing you to choose the number of days you wish to spend in this stunning destination. 5. Iberia Airlines: MadridIberia Airlines offers a “Hola Madrid” stopover package, allowing passengers to stay in Spain’s vibrant capital for up to six nights at no extra cost to the airfare. The package includes discounts on guided tours, cultural experiences, and restaurants, as well as a free two-day public transport card and luxury shopping benefits. 6. Emirates: DubaiEmirates offers a free stopover of up to 48 hours in Dubai, a city known for its ultramodern architecture and vibrant nightlife. The airline provides discounts on hotels and a variety of activities, from cultural experiences to adventure sports. With a 24-hour hotel check-in policy and the ability to book a multi-city itinerary, a stopover in Dubai is a convenient and luxurious option. 7. JAL Japan Airlines: Tokyo and OsakaJapan Airlines’ Stopover Program allows passengers to stay in Tokyo or Osaka for up to six nights at no extra airfare cost. By purchasing the JAL Japan Explorer Pass, travelers can connect to more than 30 cities across Japan, enjoying discounts on hotels, transportation, and cultural activities. 8. Singapore Airlines: SingaporeSingapore Airlines offers heavily discounted hotel rates through its Singapore Stopover Holiday package. This package includes airport transfers and complimentary access to over 20 attractions, making a stopover in Singapore an affordable and memorable experience. Additional Noteworthy Stopover Programs
For more information or to book a stopover, contact 1st Choice for personalized booking assistance and exclusive deals.
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A Comparison of the Fast Train Companies in Sweden: Sweden has a well-developed network of high-speed trains that offer travelers comfortable and efficient travel throughout the country. Among the leading operators are SJ, MTRX, VY and Arlanda Express. Here we take a deep dive into what customer reviews say about these train companies, their range of services and punctuality. 1. MTRX Facts: Company information: MTRX (MTR Express) is a relatively new train company that started operating between Stockholm and Gothenburg in 2015. It is owned by MTR Nordic, part of the Hong Kong-based MTR Corporation. Network: Mainly traffics the Stockholm-Gothenburg line. Services: Free Wi-Fi, electrical outlet at each seat, onboard service with food and drink, and the option of business class. Punctuality: MTRX is known for high punctuality, with an average punctuality of over 90%. Average Customer Reviews: 4.5/5 Advantages based on reviews: Value for money: Competitive prices. Comfort: Comfortable seats and good legroom. Service: Friendly and helpful staff. Punctuality: High reliability and punctuality. Cons based on reviews: Limited network: Limited to a main line between Stockholm and Gothenburg. 2. SJ (State Railways) Facts: Company information: SJ is Sweden's largest train operator and has existed since 1856. It is a state-owned company that operates both long-distance and regional trains. Network: Covers large parts of Sweden and some international destinations. Services: Free Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, on-board catering, quiet section, 1st and 2nd class, night train with sleeping compartments. Punctuality: Punctuality varies by line, but SJ reports an average punctuality of around 85-90% for its express trains. Average Customer Reviews: 4.0/5 Advantages based on reviews: Extensive network: Covers many destinations. Comfort: Good facilities in both 1st and 2nd class. Services: Free Wi-Fi and onboard catering. Cons based on reviews: Price: More expensive than some competitors, especially for shorter bookings. Service: Mixed reviews on customer service. 3. Arlanda Express Facts: Company information: Arlanda Express is a privately owned company that offers fast train connections between Stockholm Central and Arlanda Airport. It started its operations in 1999. Network: Only between Stockholm Central and Arlanda Airport. Services: Fast transport, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seats, plenty of space for luggage. Punctuality: Very high punctuality, often over 95%. Average Customer Reviews: 4.0/5 Advantages based on reviews: Speed: Very fast and frequent connection. Comfort: Comfortable seats and plenty of luggage space. Punctuality: Almost always punctual. Cons based on reviews: Price: More expensive compared to other transport options to Arlanda. 4. VY Facts: Company information: VY, formerly known as NSB (Norges Statsbaner), is a Norwegian state-owned company that operates train services in both Norway and Sweden. They have been active in Sweden since 2019. Network: Operates several regional lines within Sweden and to Norway. Services: Free Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, on-board catering, 1st and 2nd class. Punctuality: Punctuality varies but is generally around 80-85%. Average Customer Reviews: 3.5/5 Advantages based on reviews: Value: Good prices for regional travel. Regional connections: Good connections within Sweden and to Norway. Comfort: Comfortable seats and good onboard facilities. Cons based on reviews: Punctuality: Mixed reviews, with some travelers reporting delays. Service: Varied experiences with customer service. Conclusion When it comes to choosing high-speed trains in Sweden, it depends a lot on your needs and preferences. Here is a summary: MTRX: Highest rating for affordability, comfort and service. Limited to the Stockholm-Gothenburg route. SJ: Good reviews for the scale and comfort of the network. Slightly more expensive with mixed reviews about customer service. Arlanda Express: Fast and reliable connection to Arlanda, but relatively expensive. VIEW: Affordable and comfortable, but with mixed reviews on punctuality and customer service. No matter which train company you choose, you will enjoy comfortable and efficient journeys through the Swedish countryside. Ranking out of 10 of Sweden's Train Companies based on Customer Reviews and Punctuality and what is unique about each company 1.MTRX: Affordable 2.SJ: Comprehensive 3.Arlanda Express: Reliable 4.VIEW: Regional 5. The nice train: Retro 6. Öresund train: Connection 7. Tågab: Nice 8. Skånetrafiken: Affordable 9. Krösatågen: Regional 10. Inlandsbanan: Scenic Summary
For travelers looking for high punctuality and customer service, MTRX and Arlanda Express are the best choices. SJ offers an extensive network and high comfort, which makes it a good choice for long-distance travel within Sweden. Snälltåget and Öresundståg are reliable and affordable options for specific routes. VY and Tågab are good for regional travel, while Skånetrafiken and Krösatågen offer affordable travel in their respective regions. The inland railway offers a unique experience for nature lovers. This ranking provides a good overview of the different train companies in Sweden based on customer reviews and punctuality, which can help travelers choose the best option for their needs. Feel free to comment if you have a different personal opinion In Spain, there are several train companies that offer high-speed trains, each with their own services and specialties. Here is an overview of the main high-speed train operators:
The specialties of the high-speed train companies: Renfe AVE: Specialty: High speed, convenience and frequent departures. Destination network: Major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, Málaga. Renfe ALVIA: Specialty: Flexibility to run on both high-speed and conventional tracks. Destination network: Cities and regions not covered by AVE. Renfe Avant: Specialty: Regional high-speed services. Destination network: Shorter distances between nearby cities and regions. Ouigo España: Specialty: Low-cost high-speed trains with a focus on affordability. Destination network: Started with Madrid-Barcelona and expanding to other routes. Iryo: Specialty: Premium services with a focus on comfort and quality. Destination network: Plans to cover several of the busiest high-speed routes in Spain. Together, these companies offer an extensive and diversified range of high-speed train travel in Spain, making it easy and convenient to travel between the country's major cities and regions. During the month of May 2024, I tried all 3 high-speed train companies and here is my personal ranking
1 Ouigo España Good standard, clean and good service. 2 Iryo Good standard, clean and good service. 3 Renfe AVE Decent starnard, clean and normal service To think of Ouigo España has no ticket offices but can only be purchased from travel agencies and online. All high-speed trains have a security check, so you should be out in good time, especially on weekends and high seasons This is my personal opinion, so if you have other experiences please share this here Securing a Business Class seat at a fraction of the price is the ultimate win for any traveller. While luxury often comes with a hefty price tag, there are numerous strategies savvy travellers can employ to snag affordable Business Class tickets. Here's a comprehensive guide to finding the best deals: 1. Search and Compare: Explore multiple travel sites and compare prices to find the lowest Business Class fares. 2. Sign Up for Special Offers: Stay informed about exclusive deals and promotions by subscribing to newsletters and alerts from Sky Corporate travel Be the first to know about discounted Business Class tickets as soon as they're released. . Book in Advance: Plan ahead and book your Business Class tickets early to secure lower fares. Start searching for deals at least four months before your departure date for the best rates. 4. Travel During Shoulder Seasons: Take advantage of off-peak travel periods, known as 'shoulder seasons,' to find discounted Business Class fares. Research destinations with quieter travel seasons and plan your trip accordingly. 5. Consider Alternative Destinations: Explore alternative travel destinations that offer similar experiences at lower costs. Avoid popular hubs and opt for less crowded airports to find cheaper Business Class flights. 6. Be Flexible with Travel Dates: Adjust your travel dates to avoid peak periods and high-demand days. Consider flying during weekdays or off-peak hours to access lower fares. . Explore Unsociable Flight Times: Look for flights during less desirable times, such as early mornings or overnight, to find discounted Business Class tickets. These flights are often priced lower due to reduced demand. 8. Be Open to Other Airlines: Consider flying with alternative carriers or low-cost subsidiaries to access more affordable Business Class options. Newer airlines may offer competitive fares to attract passengers. 9. Explore Alternative Airports: Explore nearby airports or alternative hubs to find cheaper Business Class flights. Repositioning flights or flying to secondary airports can result in significant savings. 10. Take Advantage of Companion Fares:
Look for companion fare deals, where discounted rates are offered for two or more travelers booking together. These promotions are often available on a campaign basis. 11. Seek Professional Assistance: Consider enlisting the help of a travel consultant to find the best Business Class deals tailored to your preferences and budget. Their expertise can save you time and effort in searching for affordable fares. Conclusion: With careful planning, flexibility, and informed decision-making, travellers can find affordable Business Class flights without compromising on comfort and luxury. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long-haul journey, these tips will help you secure the best deals and make your Business Class experience more accessible. Contact 1st Choice for booking and information on Business Class options. Remember, while finding the cheapest Business Class tickets requires effort and research, the value of a premium travel experience is unparalleled. Leaving behind beloved pets when travelling can be heart-wrenching for pet owners. Fortunately, flying with pets has become increasingly common, offering owners the chance to share adventures with their furry companions. However, navigating the complexities of pet travel requires meticulous planning to ensure a safe and stress-free journey for both pets and their owners. Here's everything you need to know: Preparing Your Pet for the Journey: Before embarking on a flight with your pet, it's crucial to ensure they are fit to travel. This involves: Health Check: Schedule a comprehensive health check for your pet to assess their fitness for air travel. Address any underlying health issues that could impact their journey. Vaccinations and Parasite Treatment: Ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and treated against parasites as per the requirements of your destination. Begin this process well in advance of your travel dates. Microchipping: Have your pet microchipped and ensure all database details are current. This serves as a safety net in case of separation during travel. Documentation: Obtain an Animal Health Certificate or pet passport from your veterinarian, documenting your pet's medical history and vaccination status. Complete all required paperwork accurately and well in advance of your trip. Familiarize Your Pet: Introduce your pet to their travel carrier or kennel well before the flight to reduce stress during travel. In-Cabin vs. Cargo Hold: Pets typically travel either in the cabin or cargo hold, depending on factors like size, breed, and airline regulations. Smaller pets may be allowed in the cabin, while larger animals travel in the cargo hold. Consider your pet's comfort and safety when choosing the appropriate travel arrangement. Choosing Pet-Friendly Airlines: Selecting the right airline is crucial for a smooth pet travel experience. Here are some pet-friendly airlines to consider: British Airways: Offers options for pets to travel in the main cabin or cargo hold, with service dogs travelling for free. American Airlines: Allows small pets in the cabin on select flights and accommodates service animals. Emirates: Provides a dedicated pet-friendly service with stringent adherence to safety regulations and care standards. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Permits pets in the cabin within specified guidelines and offers options for pets travelling in the cargo hold. Qantas Airlines: Facilitates pet travel through Qantas Freight Pet Travel Specialists, ensuring compliance with destination requirements Tips for a Smooth Journey:
Book your pet's travel well in advance and confirm all requirements with the airline. Choose an appropriate carrier or kennel that meets airline guidelines. Consider your pet's comfort during the journey and provide familiar items, such as blankets or toys. Communicate with airline staff to ensure your pet's needs are met throughout the journey. Flying with pets can be a rewarding experience with careful planning and preparation. By following these guidelines and choosing the right airline, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both you and your furry companion. Contact 1st Choice for booking and information on pet-friendly travel options. Feel free to write about your own experience. In 2024, what better way to start the year anew than with a visit to a fabulous European Spa & Wellness retreat? These retreats offer a perfect balance of health and self-care, providing a wide range of treatments that help restore the mind, body, and spirit. With offerings such as fitness classes, yoga, hiking, and nutritional plans, these retreats approach wellness holistically. Thermal pools, massages, beauty treatments, and even invigorating ice baths help to further reset the body and mind, promoting a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Across Europe, you can find an array of swish spas and retreats committed to transforming lives, while being mindful of their environmental impact. These are places where silence, space, light, and nature live in perfect harmony, allowing you to seek out rare moments of introspection, refuel your soul, and focus on your well-being under the guidance of experts.
The guide to the 9 Best European Spas & Wellness Retreats for restorative holidays.
Please don't hesitate to contact us for info and prices.
Dubai is a city that has become synonymous with luxury travel. It is a place where visitors can experience the height of opulence and extravagance. Located in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai boasts man-made islands, artificial and natural beaches, and great weather all year round. But that is just the beginning. Dubai is home to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, which stands at a towering 830 metres. The iconic Burj Al Arab is one of the world's plushest hotels, offering guests unparalleled luxury and comfort. If you're looking for a culinary adventure, Dubai has an abundance of fabulous restaurants, trendy bars and pubs, and relaxing spas. And if shopping is your thing, you won't be disappointed - Dubai is home to some of the best shopping in the world. For those who love architecture, Dubai is a feast for the eyes. The city boasts nearly 30 skyscrapers, more than any other city in the world. The architecture is simply stunning, and you can take in the views from the many rooftop bars dotted around the city. But Dubai isn't just about luxury and opulence. It's also a place where visitors can experience the natural beauty of the Arabian Desert. From falconry to dune bashing, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the desert and take in its unique landscape. At night, Dubai comes alive with fountain shows, clubs and other fun activities. In fact, there is so much to do and see in Dubai that even a week is not enough. It truly is a city of endless possibilities, and a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a luxurious and unforgettable travel experience. Resor är en fantastisk möjlighet att utforska världen och skapa minnesvärda upplevelser. Men planering och bokning av resor kan vara en tidskrävande och ibland överväldigande process. Här är de fem viktigaste skälen till varför det är fördelaktigt att anlita en resebyrå/resekonsult för att underlätta och förbättra dina resor.
En av de största fördelarna med att anlita en resebyrå/resekonsult är tillgången till expertis och erfarenhet. Resebyråer specialiserar sig på att planera och organisera resor, och resebyråns kunskap om olika destinationer och researrangemang kan vara ovärderlig. Resekonsulten kan erbjuda insikter och rekommendationer baserade på sin gedigna erfarenhet och uppdaterade kunskap om resor. Reser du ofta och anlitar samma resekonsult så vet resekonsulten din specifika behov.
Att boka en resa kan vara en tidskrävande process. Genom att anlita en resebyrå/resekonsult kan du spara tid, ansträngning och pengar. Istället för att själv söka efter bästa priser, transportalternativ och boende kan du överlåta allt till resebyrån. Resebyrån kommer att hantera bokningar och förhandlingar åt dig, vilket frigör din tid att fokusera på att njuta av resan med den bästa lösningen och enligt din resebudget.
Varje resa är unik, och en resebyrå/resekonsult kan skräddarsy reselösningar som passar dina specifika behov och preferenser. Oavsett om du vill ha en avkopplande solsemester, en äventyrlig rundresa eller en romantisk helgresa, kan en resebyrå/resekonsult hjälpa dig att skapa den perfekta resplanen. Genom att förstå dina önskemål och budget kan en resekonsult skapa en skräddarsydd resa som överträffar dina förväntningar.
När du bokar genom en resebyrå får du inte bara hjälp före resan, utan även under själva resan. Om något går fel eller om du behöver hjälp kan du enkelt nå ut till din resebyrå/resekonsult för att få assistans. Resebyrån kan hjälpa till med att lösa problem och ge dig råd och support när du behöver det som mest oavsett klockslag. Detta ger dig trygghet och minskar stressen under resans gång.
Resebyråer har ofta tillgång till exklusiva förmåner och erbjudanden som inte är tillgängliga för allmänheten. Genom att anlita en resebyrå/resekonsult kan du dra nytta av specialpriser, uppgraderingar och andra förmåner som kan göra din resa ännu mer minnesvärd. Resekonsultens nätverk och relationer inom resebranschen ger dig tillgång till unika möjligheter och förmåner. Du får gratis tips på utflykter, restauranger, evenemang eller annat som du kanske skulle missa. Resekonsulten delar med sig av sina egna erfarenheter och upplevelser och tar även hjälp av sina kunder om de just varit på platsen.
Att anlita en resebyrå/resekonsult kan vara en klok investering för att förbättra dina resor och din resekassa. Med deras expertis, tidsbesparing, skräddarsydda reselösningar, stöd under resan och exklusiva förmåner kan du få en smidigare och mer givande reseupplevelse. Så nästa gång du planerar en resa, överväg att anlita en resebyrå/resekonsult och låt dem ta hand om detaljerna medan du njuter av din resa till fullo.
Att boka en resa är inte bara flygbiljetter, tågbiljetter, hotell eller andra färdmedel. Resebyrån/resekonsulten hjälper dig även med nödvändiga transfers, visum, parkering nödvändiga försäkringar etc. Resebyrån/resekonsulten ser också till att du får den sittplats du vill ha på planet, rätta antal bagage, mat på planet eller annat för din komfort. Ska du resa med ditt husdjur eller resa tillsammans med någon som bokat på annat sätt så ser resebyrån till att ni kan sitta tillsammans. Vill du ha bokad lounge på flygplatsen så du slipper sitta och trängas på offentliga platser så får du hjälp med detta. Resebyrån/resekonsulten har genom sitt nätverk tillgång till evenemang, konserter, tävlingar med biljetter som du inte kan komma över själv.
Som företagare gör du den största besparingen att överlåta hela din bokning till resebyrån/resekonsulten då man sparar tid som du kan lägga ner på företaget. Samma sak om företaget planerar ett kundevent eller personalresa/personalevent. Tänk på att resebyrån/resekonsulten hanterar alla bokningar med mer än en person som grupp och du kan få extra gruppförmåner. Låt 1st Choice skräddarsy din resa – Det kostar inget extra. Kommentera gärna med dina erfarenheter från kontakt med resebyrå/resekonsult. #resebokning #affärsresor #besparing #B2B #1stChoice Kontakta oss gärna eller boka in en tid för konsultation. Det kostar inget.
From lush rainforests to erupting volcanoes, exploring the marvel of Hawai‘i’s natural world not only brings visitors closer to nature, but allows them to immerse themselves in Hawai‘i’s rich history. Below, visitors will find an array of recommendations for one-of-a-kind, unforgettable experiences, including volunteer opportunities, that aim to foster a new appreciation for Hawai‘i’s diverse ecosystem and form a deeper connection to the islands and its unique culture and traditions.
Kaua‘i Waimea Canyon is a geological wonder 14 miles long, a mile wide and more than 3,600 feet deep. Waimea Canyon State Park offers sights everyone will find fascinating, from a scenic main road snaking alongside the canyon featuring several overlooks, to hikes for both beginning and advanced hikers. Just beyond Waimea Canyon State Park, 4,345-acre Kōkeʻe State Park rises to more than 4,200 feet above sea level, providing mesmerizing views of emerald Kalalau Valley and the Pacific from atop the Nāpali Coast. Both parks offer more than 45 miles of hiking trails and showcase a diversity of vegetation, native plants, forest birds and more. Kōke‘e State Park is also home to Kōkeʻe Natural History Museum, an ideal place for your clients to learn more about the park, its trails and volunteer opportunities. On Kaua‘i’s south shore, National Tropical Botanical Garden’s Allerton Garden is an 80-acre paradise of landscape design combining a multitude of tropical plants and works of garden art. Allerton Garden was named one of “50 Places of a Lifetime” by National Geographic Traveler and its grounds have been featured in several blockbuster movies, including “Jurassic Park” and “Pirates of the Caribbean, On Stranger Tides.” O‘ahu A sacred historical and spiritual site, clients to Waimea Valley will experience Hawaiʻi’s culture, art and history in the heart of a traditional ahupuaʻa (uplands-to-sea land division). Learn the arts of lei making, lauhala weaving, poi pounding, and other practices from Hawai‘i artisans and cultural practitioners. Waimea Valley’s new Kaʻapuni o Waimea program allows clients to tour multiple valley sites, learning new perspectives on Hawaiian culture and the concept of ho‘okipa (hospitality). Lyon Arboretum is an astounding botanical garden managed by the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Set on 200 acres, Lyon Arboretum is home to more than 6,000 tropical and sub-tropical plants. It features more than seven miles of hiking trails that will lead clients to a variety of themed and memorial gardens, landmarks, statues, and waterfalls. Guided and self-guided tours are available. Maui Located in Kīhei, the Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge is a protected wetland and sanctuary for many species that are native and endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Here, clients can observe the endangered ae‘o (Hawaiian stilt) and ‘alae ke‘oke‘o (Hawaiian coot). During the winter months, the wetlands are home to more than 30 species of waterfowl, shorebirds and migratory ducks not just from Hawaiʻi, but from as far away as Alaska, Canada, and even Asia. The Kipuka Olowalu Cultural Reserve is a 74-acre valley that seeks to preserve Native Hawaiian culture and ensure these beliefs and customs are passed down to future generations. For hundreds of years, the Olowalu Valley has been a refuge for those seeking sanctuary and protection and is home to a native ecosystem of plants, birds, fish, and mollusks. Kipuka Olowalu offers enriching volunteer opportunities for clients to mālama ‘āina (respect and care for the land), to work alongside cultural experts and conservationists, and learn about the valley’s history and unique biodiversity. Island of Hawai‘i The Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the most active volcanoes on Earth: Kīlauea and Maunaloa. At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, clients can get an up close look at the new land the volcanic eruptions create on Hawaiʻi Island. The park also provides clients the opportunity to pay their respects to Pele, the goddess of fire, and to view ancient Hawaiian structures, culture, life, and landscape. There are also volunteer opportunities such as removing invasive Himalayan Ginger from park trails. Set on 20 acres of tropical rainforest, the Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden is a natural greenhouse containing over 2,000 species, representing more than 125 families and 750 genera. Clients walk along lush nature trails to see endangered tropical and subtropical plants from around the world. The nature preserve showcases waterfalls including Onomea Falls in the Garden, a three-tiered waterfall said to be the most beautiful in all of Hawai‘i.Click here to edit. Sofia – the exciting capital of Bulgaria Sofia is one of the oldest capitals in Europe. Here you will find modern shopping centers, fine parks, elegant boulevards, Byzantine churches and monuments from the communist era. Located at the foot of the Vitosha mountain massif Bulgaria's beautiful capital, Sofia, is located at the foot of the Vitosha mountain range. The mountain has also given its name to the main street with rows of stylish shops and a leafy park at one end. In Vitosja you go skiing in the winter and walk in the forest in the summer. You can go up by funicular or chair lift. The city is distinguished by its architectural mix of modern and historic buildings. Older landmarks are Bojana Church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the early Byzantine St. Sophia Church. More modern architecture can be seen at the Bulgarian National Opera, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the Rakovski Street Theater District, and the Natsionalen dvorets na kulturata (NDK), Southeast Europe's largest cultural convention center. The city is small, in the center stands the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral with its large domes. In the crypt there is a large collection of icons spanning over a thousand years. Next to the cathedral is the church of Santa Sofia, which gave the city its name. Also, don't miss the Banya Bashi Mosque from 1576. The National Museum of History has over 650,000 objects and the National Art Gallery has art from the 19th and 20th centuries. Shopping can be done in Bulgaria Mall, The Mall, Mall of Sofia, the other department stores or at the so-called Women's Market, Zhenski Pazar, a bustling bazaar that stretches over several blocks where clothes, food, carpets, shawls and much more are sold .There are many other small markets in the suburbs as well. Vodenitzata cooks good Bulgarian food and the staff serve in national costume. There are also vegetarian options, not always a matter of course in Bulgaria. Still, they have the best vegetables in Europe. Don't forget to try the good Bulgarian wine! The best time to go here is during the summer months, but there are fewer tourists in spring and autumn if you prefer. Or - if you want to go skiing, winter is of course the best. You can stay well at affordable prices. In addition, the travel agency often has agreements with most hotels, so you get away even cheaper.
You can easily travel with local transport, which has a good network of subways, trams, cable buses and regular buses. If you choose to take a taxi, it is also incredibly cheap. Take out your calendar and plan your next weekend trip. Do you want to read a little about Bulgaria and its culture, etc Then open this link |
AuthorPer-Åke Nådén. Archives
August 2024
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