Category: Europe

10 Things that You Must Do In Serbia

10 Things that You Must Do In Serbia

Posted on | by VedarthDesh852

Serbia is a lively combination of untainted landscapes, authentic history, and rare natural beauties. This Eastern European country has a rich and varied past, from the eclectic vibrancy of Belgrade to the calm spa towns of Sokobanja and Vrnjaka Banja, and still preserves a distinctly old-world flavor, though this does not make it an undeveloped backwater.

This country is packed with attractions that satisfy history lovers, partygoers, and those looking for adventurous locations. Even though the country is filled with both natural and historical spots for your eyes to feast upon, here are a few top spots that you must visit.

 

1. Devil’s Town

The peculiar geomorphological location of Devil’s Town, located on Mount Radan, is a top destination for those looking for a little Serbian mystery. Legend has it that the 200 natural stone sculptures that comprise this eerie town are actually a bunch of terrified wedding guests, located 700 meters above sea level and wedged between two ravines.

 

2. Belgrade

The colorful capital of Serbia offers the perfect mix of art, culture, and delicacies to feast on. The bold street art and the soothing spots such as the Belgrade Waterfront you will be able to witness something exciting happening in every corner of the city that is plopped between the Danube and the Sava rivers.

 

3. Drvengrad and Šargan Eight

Experience the scenic beauty Serbia has to offer with the Šargan Eight heritage railway. If the village appears a little like a movie set, that’s because it was designed to look like one. It began as a film set for local director Emir Kusturica’s film Life is a Miracle and has since evolved into an ethnic open-air museum with a focus on the arts.

 

4. Uvac Special Nature Reserve

Uvac Lake, Zlatar Lake, and Radoinja Lake come together to give you the ultimate experience of mother nature at its best. This reserve is protected mostly to reserve its lavish birdlife, especially the griffon vulture – the reserve’s treasured symbol. Not only can you enjoy the colorful and lively birdlife but can also explore the magnificent caves that line the crystal blue waters. The best way to explore is through boats.

 

5. Gamzigrad-Romuliana

This UNESCO World Heritage site is just south of the Danube river. There are stunning walls and temples to visit (for a nominal fee), as well as hot springs and even a tetrapylon, at this late Roman imperial palace and memorial complex (cubic Ancient Roman monument).

 

6. Sokobanja

Tucked between two mountains you will find Serbia’s most popular spa resort- Sokobanja. As you enjoy a breath of fresh, crisp air and admire the serene surroundings, let the cool water of Bovan lake, the largest waterfall in all of Serbia, let all your stress washdown. If you are looking for some adventures around the same, you can always opt for hiking and trekking trails along the river.

 

7. Vrnjačka Banja

Vrnjaka Banja exudes peacefulness and invites you to discover something magical around every bend in the trail, from the man-made lake to the fanciful waterfall. Before entering the large decorative Japanese Garden, take a stroll through lush green parks, cultural centers, and natural sulfur springs.

 

8. Tara National Park

Tara’s lush scenery and stunning ravines are the best features of Serbia’s spectacular crown. The stunning Drina River canyon, one of Serbia’s most beautiful streams, flows proudly through its forested slopes. And that’s not all that makes water babies happy. Tara’s two lakes, Peruac and Zaovine, are both great for swimming and kayaking.

 

9. Djerdap National Park

You can find surprising cultural riches all throughout the place. The park spreads from the glistening Golubac Fortress to the dam in Novi Sip, flanking the Danube. Climbers and hikers can enjoy the park’s untamed terrain and local cultural legacy.

 

10. Zlatibor

Zlatibor is a top destination for rural, sport, and health tourism, as well as organizing a variety of special events each year, thanks to its natural features. During the summer, there are festivals such as the Trumpet Festival and exhibitions of traditional folk art.

 

Serbia is vast with many small and large locations one can only dream of. They are serene, beautiful and give the visitors a chance to explore more of its lands and magnificent sights. If you know a location that should’ve been included in this list, please comment below. We are always open to learning more from our readers!

5 Essential Tips When Travelling to Finland

5 Essential Tips When Travelling to Finland

Posted on | by VedarthDesh852 | Leave a Comment on 5 Essential Tips When Travelling to Finland

Traveling to a new place can be a whole event, especially when you don’t know anything about the place. It helps to have your own personal guide who can help you out. This is a guide on the basic tips and tricks to ensure you have a smooth trip to Finland. Anyone considering travel to Finland must always check the latest information from the local authorities regarding requirements for international passengers arriving in the country.

Passengers arriving in Finland are subject to health and safety measures. It is important to check with the finish border guard for the latest information. We have listed some tips that one must keep in mind while traveling to Finland:

 

  1. What vaccinations do I need?

There are no specific jabs that are required to Finland but it is recommended that you are up to date with your home country’s requirements. The medical facilities in Finland are amazing and very easily accessible so you do not have to worry about that. Due to COVID, it is better to check the guidelines pertaining to the vaccine before travel.

 

  1. Is tap water safe to drink in Finland?

This is not known to a lot of people but the tap water in Finland is ranked as some of the best water in the world so there is no need for you to waste your money or time by buying bottled water. Drinking tap water is a privilege that Finns get to enjoy on a regular basis. Finland’s tap water is among the highest quality in the world and is not only completely safe but a pleasure to consume. In Finland, tap water has been found to be significantly cleaner than bottled water. You can drink tap water everywhere you go. You can also fill your own bottles with refreshing and clean spring water for free, as many locals do.

 

  1. Is it normal to tip in Finland?

Tipping is a habit in Finland but it is not a hard and fast rule there. When, where, and how much is not standard. The service is included in the bill itself so it is the discretion of the customer to pay a little extra or not. Hotel staff is rarely tipped, except when a long-term guest leaves. Taxi drivers also do not expect anything but it does not hurt to round up the fare while paying. If you wish to give a tip, you can do so in cash or by allowing an extra charge on your card. It is always okay to leave coins. If you use your card to offer a tip, you can let the waiter know the price you want to pay. Furthermore, it has also become very famous that the card terminal itself asks you if you would like to give a tip. The idea is to make tipping easy for you if you would like to do it. However, always know that there is no pressure. You just need to select yes or no to continue.

 

  1. What souvenirs are good to shop for in Finland?

It would be a shame if you traveled all the way to Finland and did not go souvenir shopping for your friends and family back home. A famous and popular item is a couple of Marimekko fabrics which are typically known for their kooky patterns and bold colors. Another great item would be a little item of glassware from Iittala. This brand is famous for intricate craftsmanship and offers great pieces to make a statement in your living room. If you are looking for something a little more practical, you can get the traditional Lapp hat which is worn by a lot of people.

 

  1. Is it safe for a single woman to travel?

Finland is one of the leading countries in the world for gender equality and this is showcased in the everyday functioning of the place. It is incredibly safe for women to travel there. Nevertheless, women should take care while walking and traveling alone at night and keep an eye out for their food and beverage, not just at bars but anywhere in the world. One must use common sense, and be careful at night and avoid the desert and poorly lit streets. Apart from that one will have no safety problems in Finland.

 

Ultimately, Finland is very safe to visit, and its capital, Helsinki, is ranked ninth on the list of safest cities is in the world. Transportation in Finland is very reliable, even though the routes can be a bit dangerous during winters, and also, it is best to be careful in public transport, as it is the place where pickpockets operate. As for natural disasters, Finland is threatened by occasional flooding during winters, as well as snowstorms. However, Finland doesn’t have many natural disasters to worry about.

Are you planning your trip to Finland? Don’t worry, your work just got much easier. We at www.travelgooru.com have the best deals on flights, stays, and hotels for you. The decision to travel is your choice, and you are responsible for your personal safety while traveling. We at Travelgooru take the safety and security of our clients abroad very seriously and offer credible and timely information in our travel advice to allow clients to make well-informed decisions regarding travel abroad.

Visit us today to know more or contact us and have our trained professional guide you through the process of booking your perfect vacation!

10 Most Beautiful Places to See in Portugal

10 Most Beautiful Places to See in Portugal

Posted on | by VedarthDesh852 | 2 Comments on 10 Most Beautiful Places to See in Portugal

Portugal is a traveler’s dream destination. It has something for everyone. If you are a history buff, there are the cities of Porto and Lisbon. If the peaceful countryside and nature are more up your alley, then you can explore the cobbled villages in the northern region of Portugal, the beautiful wine region, and the rugged Atlantic coast.

Here are some of the most beautiful places to explore in Portugal!

 

1. Sintra

Known for its fairytale-like scenic charm, Sintra is cocooned in the Serra de Sintra mountains among magnificent pine trees. Dotted with castles, the most famous being the Palacio Nacional da Pena and the Quinta da Regaleira, a visit to Sintra can transport you to fantasy land. Sintra’s hills make walking an effort, but the outcomes are worth it. For those who do not prefer to walk, there are buses that stop near all the city’s attractions such as Pena’s Palace, a castle reminiscent of Germany’s Neuschwanstein.

 

2. Lisbon

Portugal’s capital city Lisbon is very aptly considered to be one of Europe’s prettiest cities. With open plazas, awe-inspiring churches, and winding streets, Lisbon is a city you do not want to miss visiting. Plan a trip to Alfama or the tower of Belan and admire the beauty of these historic places. Lisbon is also home to the oldest bookshop in the world.

 

3. Estoi

Estoi is home to one of the most romantic buildings in Portugal – a palace dating back to the 19th century. With a pretty pink Rococo facade and giant palm trees, the Palacio do Visconde de Estoi is certainly worth a visit. While at Estoi, make sure to walk up to the Roman Ruins of Milreu where you can see the remnants of a grand ancient Roman villa dating back to the 2nd century AD.

 

4. Obidos

Dating back to Palaeolithic times, Obidos is a beautiful example of a traditional Portuguese walled town. Here you can see the blending of Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish influence at its best. Every July, the town has its Annual Medieval Festival, featuring costumed parades, knights, minstrels, performance shows, and a handicraft fair showcasing medieval food and wares.

 

5. The Algarve

If you are a beach lover, then the Algarve is just the place for you. With stunning views of the Atlantic and natural rock formations, the Algarve is a crowd puller. But it also has some mesmerizing isolated beaches that are a little off the beaten track.

 

6. Porto

Porto shares many similarities with Lisbon but it stands out for its rows of houses adorned with Azulejos tiles. Enjoy Porto on a Rabelo boat trip or explore the hilly streets and plazas on foot. Either way, it is bound to be an enriching experience. World-famous for its fine port wine production, the busy city of Porto sprawls along the hills overlooking the Douro River in Northern Portugal, prized for its architectural and natural beauty.

 

7. Cascais

Chosen by King Louis I of Portugal as his summer retreat, Cascais still retains its old-world charm. Home to at least 17 beaches, the adorable towns of Cascais are sure to make your visit worthwhile.

 

8. Douro Valley

A haven for wine lovers, the splendid Douro Valley includes one of the oldest wine regions in the world- the Barca de Alva. The area’s tradition of viniculture is reflected in almost everything, right from the old Rabelo boats to the exquisite vine designs at the Pinhao railway station. Douro valley doesn’t offer you just vine. You also get to see some of Portugal’s most magnificent natural landscapes. Savor the view slowly while traveling by rail along the historic Douro railway line.

 

9. Coimbra

The ancient city of Coimbra is a beautiful blend of elegance and classicism. Portugal’s medieval capital for more than 200 years, today Coimbra boasts of a huge student population and colorful nightlife, owing to its historic university complex. Dotted with Gothic monuments and Moorish fortifications, Coimbra’s beauty comes intensely alive at night as the city is illuminated with candle-like lights against a cerulean blue sky. The exciting culture scene at Coimbra is most popular for its fado music performances and academic festivals, which feature a Tin Can Parade welcoming students at the starting of the school year and an 8-day “Burning of the Ribbons” party following the end of the second semester.

 

10. The Azores

If nature tourism is your cup of tea, then the Azores have to top your list. Consisting of nine islands located off the coast of Portugal and North Africa, the Azores abound in outdoor activities and dramatic islands. When you think the Azores, think giant, gurgling waterfalls, extinct craters, basin-like lakes, and hiking paths set atop lush green ridges. The landscape is not surprising, considering that each of the nine islands is of volcanic origin.  The Azores offer you an opportunity to indulge in a wide variety of activities ranging from canoeing, kayaking, whale watching, diving, hiking inside the volcanoes, or exploring the islands by car.

 

With so many fascinating places to visit, Portugal has to be a must-see on your bucket list. If you desire to have a great trip and make amazing memories in Portugal, connect with us at TravelGooru today. We help clients search for cheap hotels and rental cars at their vacation destinations. We instantly compare prices and provide precise details to make it easy for our clients.

Contact us at Travelgooru and let us make your dream vacation come true!

7 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

7 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

Posted on | by VedarthDesh852 | Leave a Comment on 7 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

When we think of Bulgaria, the only scene that comes to our mind is majestic mountains alongside golden beaches, historic towns, and working villages locked in age-old traditions. The country is rich in nature, history, and unforgettable memories and experiences. In most cases, Bulgaria is not really imagined as a must-visit and the outcome is that it is often overlooked in favor of its European neighbors. But, being an overlooked country makes it more favorable for one. To visit Bulgaria is to open yourself to many soul-stirring mountain ranges, and off-beat-track experiences.

Seven mountain ranges form the backbone of the nation with folkloric villages, glacial lakes, and forests hiding bears and wolves. If you like to travel like a local, head to some of the finest destinations in Bulgaria, according to the Bulgarians. Read on to see why you must visit Bulgaria and the gems that are waiting for you!

  1. Veliko Tarnovo

One of the finest places to visit in Europe, Veliko Tarnovo stands out for its breathtaking elegance. The town is placed on the banks of the yatra river, which offers a picture rescue backdrop for this historic Bulgarian settlement. When visiting the town, we at Travelgooru recommend walking on the Bishop’s Bridge. This is a very romantic place that was built in the late XVII century. Wine enthusiasts and history buffs are sure to always have a gala time here.

  1. Nessebar

Positioned in the eastern part of the country on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, Nessebar is an ancient city from the Burgas province. Also known as the “Pearl of the Black Sea”, the city is an ancient one that started as a Thracian settlement and later became a Greek colony of Mesembria. On visiting, you’ll be greeted by a romantic atmosphere with well-preserved churches, cobbled streets, ancient ruins, wooden houses, and beautiful beaches. These attractions have given Nessebar a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

  1. Arbanasi

This is a small village located close to Veliko Tarnovo, on a hill. The village offers charming cobblestone streets and ancient houses surrounded by high revival style stone walls, in addition to stunning views of Tsarevets and Veliko Tarnovo. Locals recommend this town to be one of the most popular destinations in Bulgaria. We at Travelgooru recommend visiting the Nativity Church, which is one of the most popular attractions as it contains beautiful frescoes from the 17th century.

  1. Varna and the Black Sea Coast

Apart from its mountainous side, Bulgaria is also popular for its beaches on the Black Sea coast. A part of the 250-mile coastline is home to stunning sandy beaches. The sunny beach offers the most popular for all holidays to Bulgaria. Also, Varna is one of Bulgaria’s most famous coastal cities and the main gateway for those heading to the beaches of the Black Sea coast. This is a favorite of all the locals and is a port city charm complemented by its historic landmarks including the archaeological museum and the Roman baths.

  1. Burgas

Burgas is the fourth largest Bulgarian city that offers an industrial feel along with seaside feels. This is a port city and a famous holiday resort with stunning beaches and happening nightlife. Apart from cultural sights, exciting history, great shopping opportunities, and beautiful beaches, the place offers a good selection of cafes, restaurants, galleries, museums. At Travelgooru we recommend visiting the Sea Garden which is a beautiful public park with stunning sea views.

  1. Sofia

At first, Bulgaria’s largest city seems to be another bustling, urban capital, but there are layers of history to be discovered in the city. We at Travelgooru recommend visiting the St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which was built in the memory of the slain Russian liberators who helped free Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. Hop on to the trams built in the Communist era to check out the many neighborhoods of the city.

  1. Plovdiv

Europe’s oldest inhabited city, Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s second-largest town and is home to a charming old town packed to the rafters with 19th-century colorful mansions that have been restored as galleries, museums, and guest houses. It has been turned into an open-air museum of Bulgarian culture. During the Bulgarian revival period, the town became one of the most important commercial centers, and many wealthy tradesmen and merchants built their houses here. The old town, with its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets, offers a very different feel.

 

Bulgaria observes a temperate continental climate and its southern parts are influenced by the Mediterranean stream. On the other hand, the climate of the eastern part of the country is affected by the Black Sea. One can find a lot of sunny days from May to October and winter makes the country ideal for a lot of winter sports. Winter sports is one of the most prominent Bulgarian things to do for adventure-seeking tourists.

From fabulous geological formations to cultural museums, across the length and breadth of Bulgaria, you’ll find charming, captivating, and awe-inspiring sights that simply shouldn’t be missed out on. If adventure travel is your lifestyle, then Bulgaria is well worth the visit. The above-listed iconic places to visit in Bulgaria might help you know where to begin when you travel next to the land of roses.

If you wish to see all these amazing places in Bulgaria, connect with us at TravelGooru today. We help clients search for cheap hotels and rental cars at their vacation destinations. We instantly compare prices and provide precise details to make it easy for our clients. Connect with us today to know more!

 

7 Tips for Your First Trip to Ireland

7 Tips for Your First Trip to Ireland

Posted on | by VedarthDesh852 | 11 Comments on 7 Tips for Your First Trip to Ireland

Ireland is a country with incredible scenery, delicious food, super friendly people, and lots of things to see and do so it’s no wonder that it is a dream tourist destination for so many people. Ireland is ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers, and of course those with Irish heritage. Ireland is an amazing country with a lot of culture and heritage, but it can also be daunting for the first-timer.

From local food to local language, packing tips to Pub etiquette, Galway to Dublin, and everything else, it’s best to know before visiting Ireland for the first time. This list will give you some pointers for your trip to Ireland so you know what to expect!

 

  1. Ireland has a wealth of ancient monuments, ruins, and landmarks that deserve exploration. Visit them all! There are many things Ireland is popular for, but some of the most notable are the striking natural landmarks and the stunning man-made monuments. Called the Emerald Island due to the green hue that covers it, Ireland is covered with famous castles, bustling cities, beautiful natural settings, ancient and recent monuments. To explain better, one such place is the Giant’s Causeway. Located in Northern Ireland, this is another UNESCO Heritage site in Emerald Ireland and is very popular for its weird-looking hexagonal rock columns. There are roughly 40,000 of these interlocking basalt columns, resulting from an ancient volcanic eruption. It is a truly unique place and a very enjoyable one to visit with family. The walk along the shore to the rocks is stunning. Being able to simply hop from one basalt column to the other, and contemplating this geological wonder is a remarkable experience.
  1. Remember that this is not Disney World: This place is quite real and can be quite strict on alcohol consumption (there are penalties if caught). Please try to please drink responsibly.
  2. Dublin and the surrounding areas are not Ireland. Ireland is the rest of the country, including the beautiful countryside, coastline, and cities that most tourists don’t know about (i.e., Galway). Spend your time exploring other parts of the country and you will be well rewarded!
  3. Driving in Ireland can be a bit hairy for newbies. If you haven’t driven a stick in a while, take it slowly and learn the best way to drive to avoid potential mishaps.
  4. Plan your trip ahead of time especially if you’re flying into Dublin. Make sure you know when the buses run and when they do not, as getting around can be difficult without them (and the taxis can be pricey).
  5. Expect hot weather in Ireland during the summer months. Bring sunscreen! The summer days grow longer and you can expect more daylight and stunning late crimson sunsets with moderate to warm temperatures. Here, summers are much drier and everyone seems happier; however, you can still expect rain and wind, so be prepared.
  6. Go for guided tours for specific activities

 

Sometimes while traveling to distant places tourists stay away from guided tours because they don’t know if it’s really important. In Ireland, we recommend taking guided tours as they are beneficial in order to go to places that are a bit out of the way, give you plenty of vital information and tips about the sights, and you only have to pay one cost. Guided tours offer diverse options at a variety of prices, which is definitely a benefit. But don’t always jump to something more expensive, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better.

Ireland is home to the friendliest people, quaint towns, breath-taking sceneries, and endless amounts of beer and once you experience, it, leaving can seem nearly impossible. We at TravelGooru, work by the motto to help you make your travel easy. We keep reading interesting posts about traveling and expand our horizons to meet your expectations.

At TravelGooru, we help with all the logistics that precede international travel. We are here to make all your reservations, compare the costs of various flights and hotels to make sure that you get the best deal. We search, compare, and save on your travel expense. If you wish to take a trip to Ireland anytime soon and are scared of the process, you can simply contact us. We will make sure that your trip is one filled with pleasure bereft of the stress of planning.