GV Travel

Our Two-Week Japan Itinerary With Teens

Allison — Wed, 08 May 2024 19:01:56 +0000

Hey there! Planning a trip to Japan? Wondering where you should go and what you should do? I know exactly how you feel! My family visited Japan in June 2023. My teens were ages 16 and 19. We flew in and out of Tokyo and there was SO MUCH we wanted to do and SO […]

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path

Tatiana — Wed, 08 May 2024 18:29:38 +0000

Would you like to explore Santa Barbara off the beaten path? Santa Barbara is one of the most popular Southern California destinations. It is a pity though that most visitors don’t get to see Santa Barbara hidden gems.

That’s why we decided to put together for you this “Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path” itinerary that only locals know about.

We have another itinerary on the blog that covers Santa Barbara area and complements THIS itinerary: “Sideways” Family Road Trip and Santa Barbara with Kids”. I definitely suggest checking it out.

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path #1 – Lake Cachuma

Most people come to Santa Barbara for the water fun, the beach, but very few even think there is a beautiful water body in close proximity to the city besides the Pacific Ocean – Lake Cachuma.

Lake Cachuma is located in the gorgeous mountainous off HW-154, just about half an hour drive from the Pacific Ocean.

Just the drive there is worth taking because of the fantastic views of the ocean from HW-154!

Lake Cachuma has camping sites, yurts and a day use area. Day use access is $10 per car.

The best things to do at Lake Cachuma is to hike, take a boat trip (there are naturalists led hikes and lake cruises on Friday through Sunday) and fish.

Unfortunately, you cannot swim in Lake Cachuma because it is an important fresh water source for the city of Santa Barbara.

There are picnic tables at the day use area, clean restrooms and friendly staff.

We really loved the area and we will definitely come here again.

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path #2 – Figueroa Mountain

If you are visiting Santa Barbara in spring after good amount of rain and you already got to Lake Cachuma I suggest driving another half an hour or so to Figueroa Mountain near Los Olivos.

Figueroa Mountain is famous for one of the best wildflower displays in Southern California. The mountain has the biggest concentration of lupins and poppies but also many other flowers.

From the downtown area of Los Olivos you will have to drive about 13 miles up Figueroa Mountain Rd. to get to the famous lupin fields. Not an easy drive, I tell you. The road is winding and very narrow in places. My husband, the driver, refused to go all the way up so we had to do with the views below, which were beautiful too.

Then on the way back we also took a hike along the Lover’s Loop Trail. The trail is running along a creek and it has a lot of different wildflowers in spring. We didn’t hike the whole 4.1 miles loop but about 1.5 put and back along the creek with a great concentration of flowers. This part of the hike is considered to be easy.

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path #3 – Los Olivos

Since you will be returning to Santa Barbara via the town of Los Olivos so why not stop there? “Los Olivos” means olives, and for a reason. The place is famous for olive oil producers. Stop by one of them to do olive oil tasting.

We enjoyed our stop at Olive + Lavender Farms. They have several olive oils and a couple balsamic vinegars for tasting for free in a nice garden area. The farm has about 1000 olive trees and they make their own olive oil. We loved all of it!

Word of caution: this is not a lavender farm. They don’t produce anything of lavender themselves. They buy lavender products from other producers and re-sell them in their store. A lot of them are way overpriced. This farm has a few lavender plants, the same amount you would see in someone’s backyard but that’s about it.

For all your lavender needs I suggest California Lavender Honey Farm with close to 1000 lavender plants and their own lavender essential oil production, lavender tea, lavender skincare products and guided educational tours.

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path #4 – Rattlesnake Canyon

Rattlesnake Canyon hike is one of the best hikes in Santa Barbara area and only about 15 miles from the beach. It is at its best in spring after lots of rain.

The creek is running along the floor of the canyon after the rain with beautiful rapids and small waterfalls.

Gorgeous wildflowers of all colors and varieties cover the entire length of the trail. The trail is considered moderate to challenging as most of it is up the hill. Take plenty of water with you!

The whole length of the trail is 4.5 miles out and back but you don’t have to hike all of it, the most beautiful wildflowers and the creek views are at the beginning of the trail. We probably hiked a mile up or so and it was just enough for us to see all the beauty.

We didn’t see any rattlesnakes in spring but they may be more active in summer.

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path #5 – Downtown Farmers Market

You may think this is ridiculous to spend your time in Santa Barbara on some farmers market, you probably have a farmers market where you live too… But hear me out first.

We live in California and we have been to a fair share of farmers markets and I can tell you that Santa Barbara and SLO ones are the best, hands down. These are more than markets, they are the way of life. If you want to experience real California you need to visit Santa Barbara farmers market.

There are several things that I like about this market:

There are A LOT of vendors and they have EVERYTHING you need, seriously. Our local San Francisco Bay Area farmers market is at least 3 times smaller and the selection is so much worse.
The market is located in Old Town Santa Barbara area (historic downtown) along the State St. with absolutely gorgeous buildings, lots of great restaurants and a fabulous ambiance.

If you decide to visit, the market is open on Tuesdays from 3 to 6.30 pm.

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path #6 – Lotusland

Lotusland in Montecito (the affluent suburb of Santa Barbara) is a true botanical and artistic gem that you should not miss for sure.

From the botanical perspective it has a fantastic collection of plants organized by themes: Japanese garden, palms, succulent, cacti, lotuses, roses, prehistoric plants (the ones that were present on the planet at the time of dinosaurs), tropical plants and many, many more.

From artistic perspective Lotusland is unique because it used to be a private estate and it was created and designed by its former owner, Polish opera singer Ganna Walska. She had some amazing items in her collection that became part of the garden: sculptures, rocks, even giant clams and lots of other super cool things.

I very strongly suggest booking a tour. There is so much to learn about each plant and each object that you would not have guessed otherwise. These are really fascinating 2 hours.

Please, note that the garden is not open all year round and visitors are limited to only 15,000 people a year so I suggest booking your visit well in advance. You cannot buy tickets on site, your visit must be pre-booked online ahead of time.

Santa Barbara Off The Beaten Path #7 – Natural History Museum

Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Museum is a crowd pleaser. If you have kids, they will absolutely love it!

Where do I even start talking about it? It is located in a historic mission style building with gardens, fountains and beautiful tile works. It has a diverse collection of exhibits from hundreds of birds and bird’s eggs to rocks and minerals, from Native Americans to dinosaurs and I can go on and on about it but it’s best if go see it all for yourself.

I absolutely loved that this Natural History Museum also has touch tanks with local Pacific Ocean inhabitants and a naturalist nearby to talk about them. And the whale skeleton at the entrance is jaw dropping.

Please, note that the Museum also has observatory and planetarium on site and organizes various monthly events. Please, check the Museum website for details.

Does Santa Barbara have good beaches?

Most people go to Santa Barbara for the beach. However, in Santa Barabara it can be a hit or miss experience. Please, don’t get me wrong, the views are beautiful here but the beach itself gets oils blobs (tar) from time to time. Out of 4 days we were here 2 days the beach was horrible – nowhere to step, almost, just black tar blobs everywhere. And if you miss one accidentally, which is very easy to do because some of them are small in size, your feet will be covered in dark oily goo that you can’t wash off.

If you don’t approach the ocean and stay on dry sand all the time you will be fine but if you have kids it is almost impossible to have them sit near you and not approach the water.

It is a really a chance you are taking the beach in Santa Barbara – it may be great, it may be horrible. I hope on your trip the beach is clean.

FULL SERVICE flights from Frankfurt to TAIWAN for €395

Mari — Wed, 08 May 2024 16:37:24 +0000

Full-service flights from Frankfurt to TAIWAN from €395 round-trip by Air China! Find the cheapest flights to Taipei and book your tickets at the best price. Tickets will cost from €395 both ways.

Taiwan is an island nation located in East Asia, bordered by China to the west, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south. It has a population of over 23 million people and its capital is Taipei.

Politically, Taiwan is a complex issue due to its historical relationship with China. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) claims Taiwan as its territory and insists on the “One China” policy, which asserts that there is only one sovereign state under the name China and that Taiwan is a part of it. However, Taiwan operates as a separate entity with its own government, military, and constitution. It officially calls itself the Republic of China (ROC).

Taiwan has a thriving economy, known for its high-tech industries, manufacturing, and exports. It’s home to some of the world’s leading technology companies and is a significant player in global trade.

In recent years, there’s been increased international attention on Taiwan due to its strategic importance, particularly in the context of the tensions between China and other countries, such as the United States. The United States, for instance, has a longstanding policy of providing Taiwan with military support, although it officially recognizes the PRC over the ROC. This delicate geopolitical situation has made Taiwan a focal point in discussions about regional security and global politics.

Route:

Frankfurt – Taipei – Frankfurt

Travel dates:

May – June 2024

Some examples:

26 May – 9 Jun (396 EUR)
2 – 16 Jun (396 EUR)
6 – 20 Jun (395 EUR)
9 – 20 Jun (396 EUR)
13 – 27 Jun (395 EUR)

NB! There might be a long stopover in Shanghai. You will have a chance to explore the city!

Where to book:

Visit SKYSCANNER

Baggage policy:

Checked baggage + Hand baggage + meals are included!

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page, Telegram

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Agoda is transforming travel for millions of customers across the globe. Part of Booking Holdings, Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Do not have time to think about accommodation and tours, but have you heard about Tourradar? Multi-day tours to every part of the world, for example, Safaris, Treks, Coach trips, Cruises, White Water Rafting, Mountain Biking, Sailing, Kayaking, Overland Trips and many more.

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

For over 60 years, Auto Europe has been a leader in worldwide car rental services and helped over 10 million travellers find the best options when travelling abroad. Through long-term relationships with top suppliers, for example, Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Europcar, National, Budget, Dollar, Buchbinder and Peugeot AutoEurope offer travellers the best rates at 20,000 pickup locations in over 180 countries worldwide.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Free Debit card by Revolut, N26, Monese or Transferwise, etc. with no fees? Sounds too good to be true, but believe it or not, this exists already for years. This should help protect your pocket. All these cards are great choices for international travellers, get your FREE card: https://travelfree.info/best-free-debit-cards-for-travellers/

CURVE. Manage all of your bank accounts from one smart card using an app. Make your first transaction, after that you can enjoy £5 absolutely free with the Curve discount when you sign up to Curve. Do not miss a great opportunity!

Delivery

Wolt – is an online food ordering and delivery service that takes orders via a mobile app. It was founded in 2014 in Helsinki. Wolt allows any restaurant to sign up as a merchant, mediating the order from the customer, taking care of the delivery and automatic payment by credit card. Get a 15 EUR free coupon for the sign-up.

Learn new skills

Skillshare is an online learning community with thousands of classes for creative and curious people, on topics, for example, Design, Business, Photography, Tech, and More. It’s an online, subscription-based e-learning community platform. Get SkillShare Free Premium Membership for 2 months.

The post FULL SERVICE flights from Frankfurt to TAIWAN for €395 appeared first on TravelFree.

DoubleTree by Hilton Chocolate Chip Cookie Baked in Space Now on Display at National Air and Space Museum

Kurt Stolz — Wed, 08 May 2024 16:31:25 +0000

A DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie

A DoubleTree by Hilton chocolate chip cookie baked in space has been placed into the collection of the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, which is part of the Smithsonian.

The cookie’s journey began in 2019, when it was baked on board the International Space Station. After its aroma wafted through the space station, it was returned to Earth for study by food scientists and made a stop at the Johnson Space Center in Houston before becoming part of the Udvar-Hazy Center’s display of space food.

“We are thrilled to display DoubleTree by Hilton’s chocolate chip cookie as the first-ever food baked in space by astronauts,” said Dr. Jennifer K. Levasseur, a curator at the museum.

During the first year of the pandemic, Hilton released what up until then had been the top-secret recipe for the chocolate chip cookies its DoubleTree hotels give guests upon arrival.

The recipe, which has been published online, calls for butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon juice freshly squeezed, flour, rolled oats, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, walnuts, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.

According to Hilton’s in-house chef, home bakers can freeze the cookie dough and place it in the oven frozen in order to have on-demand DoubleTree chocolate-chip cookies.

The hotel chain began to offer the chocolate chip cookies to VIP guests starting in the early 1980s but soon began to offer them to all guests at check-in. The first DoubleTree hotel opened in Scottsdale, Arizona, in 1969.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)

Pro-Hamas, Anti-Israel Protestors Riot Outside Athens Hotel Where Israeli Guests Were Staying

Kurt Stolz — Wed, 08 May 2024 16:08:22 +0000

The rooftops of Athens

Anti-Israel protests erupted outside the Brown Acropol Athens Hotel in Greece Wednesday night. Demonstrators chanted anti-Israeli slogans because a group of Israeli tourists was believed to be staying at the property.

The protests escalated into a riot and the group tried to force its way into the hotel.

The hotel is located on Omonia Square, a major business and commercial area of the city.

Greek police forcefully intervened, using gas grenades to disperse the crowd and restore order. Social media posts from the scene showed a chaotic scene outside the hotel as protesters dispersed amidst the sound of exploding grenades.

The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that there had been no known Israeli casualties following the unrest although it did not comment on the condition of any of the rioters.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)

A novice trekker’s guide to Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain Overland Track

Cliona Elliott — Wed, 08 May 2024 15:53:55 +0000

If you're gearing up for this trail, or considering an adventure in Tasmania's UNESCO-listed wilderness, this first-timer's experience of the Overland Track will give you some valuable insights on what to expect and tips on how to handle it.

The post A novice trekker’s guide to Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain Overland Track appeared first on Intrepid Travel Blog.

May 2025 Deadline for Real ID-Compliant Driver’s Licenses at Nation’s Airports May Be the Real Deal

Paul Riegler — Wed, 08 May 2024 15:44:49 +0000

TSA PreCheck security checkpoint at LaGuardia Airport

The deadline for travelers to present Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses at the nation’s security checkpoints, originally scheduled to be in 2008 and postponed multiple times, is currently May 7, 2025 and – unlike what has taken place over the past 17 years – this deadline may stick.

Real ID establishes minimum standards and security enhancements for state-issued driver’s licenses.

The rationale for Real ID came from the fact that some of the terrorists who hijacked the four planes on September 11, 2001, used fraudulently obtained driver’s licenses to traverse airport security checkpoints, but the plan raised concerns for privacy as well as the cost of implementation. As a result, the deadline for enforcement was pushed back repeatedly from 2008 to 2009 to 2011 to 2013 then to October 2020 before the postponement announced in December 2022.

Driver’s licenses that are Real ID compliant sport a five-point star in the top right corner. Getting one requires a trip to the local department of motor vehicles or other agency that issues licenses in your state with documentation that includes proof of identity such as a current license, birth certificate, or passport; proof of date of birth; proof of U.S. citizenship; and two proofs of residence such as utility bills or bank statements.

In addition to a Real ID-compliant license, travelers may use a variety of other identification documents including passports, passport cards, Department of Home Security trusted traveler cards such as from the Global Entry program, permanent resident cards, and a border crossing card.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)

5 Online Gaming Mistakes Every Beginner Must Avoid

The GypsyNesters — Wed, 08 May 2024 15:42:30 +0000

The popularity of online games is at an all-time high. What started as a medium of entertainment has become a legitimate career, thanks to the advancement in technology and the competitive nature of such games. If you also wish to explore the world of online gaming, this might be the best time to get started. But first, you need … Continue reading "5 Online Gaming Mistakes Every Beginner Must Avoid"

The post 5 Online Gaming Mistakes Every Beginner Must Avoid appeared first on The GypsyNesters.

Lux Express PROMO CODE: tickets with 50% Discount

Admin — Wed, 08 May 2024 15:40:01 +0000

Lux Express Promo Code 2024. Get a Lux Express promotion now and buy bus tickets with a discount across the Lux Express network. Do not miss this opportunity! Let the journey begin – tickets with a 50% discount! Start booking your journey straight away!

Lux Express is the largest international express routes coach operator in the Baltic region that offers bus services in 7 countries. The main directions are St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Riga, Vilnius and Warsaw. The company operates on international and Estonian domestic routes. Lux Express offers bus services under Lux Express, Lux Express Lounge, Lux Express Special, Lux Mini, and Simple Express brands.

Invite your friends and head out to discover the Baltic States together. Enjoy delicious food and exciting events! Also see what to do in Riga, Vilnius and Warsaw. An exciting vacation awaits!

Routes:

Tallinn <-> Riga
Riga <-> Vilnius
Tallinn <-> Vilnius
Riga <-> Tartu
Vilnius <-> Warsaw
Riga <-> Pärnu
Tallinn <-> Warsaw
Riga <-> Liepaja
Riga <-> Daugavpils

Travel period:

10 May – 19 June 2024

Lux Express Promo Code Sale period:

8 – 15 May 2024

LUX EXPRESS Promo Code:

luxmay

Campaign rules:

Always buy a ticket on the luxexpress.eu website or mobile application
Buy a ticket for the travel period until 19 June 2024
Must use LUX EXPRESS PROMO CODE: luxmay
Discount is applied only when the standard seat is selected.
The discount applies only to the full-price ticket.
The offer is valid on Lux Express Estonian domestic, Baltic and Polish routes.
Campaign tickets may not be available for all departures. There are a limited number of campaign tickets available per departure.

Where to book:

Visit LUX EXPRESS

NB! The number of tickets with a discount is limited!

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page, Telegram

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post Lux Express PROMO CODE: tickets with 50% Discount appeared first on TravelFree.

Connecting across generations on a family trip to Borneo that I didn’t have to plan

Dianne Bortoletto — Wed, 08 May 2024 15:26:09 +0000

Dianne's no stranger to arranging reunion-style family travel for her parents, siblings, kids and niblings, but the logistics can turn into a nightmare. Enter the Intrepid way of doing it.

The post Connecting across generations on a family trip to Borneo that I didn’t have to plan appeared first on Intrepid Travel Blog.

Prizes on offer with new Incredible Journeys touring initiative

Wed, 08 May 2024 14:52:05 +0000

Trends-themed brochure showcases tailor-made holidays

EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival Is Stale. Here’s What We Want Disney to Change in 2024.

Tom Bricker — Wed, 08 May 2024 14:07:45 +0000

EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival is its weakest event of the year. We’ve been saying this for several years–that despite its popularity and status as Walt Disney World’s flagship festival, it rests on its reputation and legacy as the oldest EPCOT event. There was a point when this might’ve been a hot take or controversial […]

The post EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival Is Stale. Here’s What We Want Disney to Change in 2024. appeared first on Disney Tourist Blog.

The Ideal One Day in Porto Itinerary: Your Complete Guide to The City

The Planet D — Wed, 08 May 2024 14:00:46 +0000

Having visited Porto three times, we clearly love this beautiful city in Portugal. It truly is one of our favorite places in Europe. A lot of people pop into Porto ... Continue Reading

Read the original post The Ideal One Day in Porto Itinerary: Your Complete Guide to The City on The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog.

MSC Cruises and Emirates renew partnership to offer Dubai fly-cruises

Wed, 08 May 2024 13:26:32 +0000

MSC Euribia to homeport in UAE city for winter 2024-25 season

Direct flights from Athens to Abu Dhabi for €98

Emilija — Wed, 08 May 2024 12:40:31 +0000

Cheap direct flights from Athens, Greece to Abu Dhabi, UAE from €98 round-trip by Wizzair! Find the cheapest flights to the United Arab Emirates and book your ticket at the best price! Tickets will cost from €98.

The United Arab Emirates, a country in the Arabian Peninsula on the Persian Gulf, is famous for its futuristic high-rise buildings, world-famous beach resorts, palm-shaped man-made islands, desert safaris, huge and luxurious shopping malls… However, that is not all the country has to offer. Check out article about 7 Best Places to Visit in United Arab Emirates.

Route:

Athens – Abu Dhabi – Athens

Travel period:

May – June 2024

Some examples:

13 – 22 May
15 – 22 May
22 – 29 May
10 – 19 Jun
12 – 19 Jun

Where to book:

Visit SKYSCANNER

Baggage policy:

Hand baggage (40x30x20 cm) is included!

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page.

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post Direct flights from Athens to Abu Dhabi for €98 appeared first on TravelFree.

66 Most Famous Landmarks in the United Kingdom: How Many Do You Know?

Amanda OBrien — Wed, 08 May 2024 12:32:00 +0000

From extraordinary medieval castles in Northern Ireland to the beautiful lochs of Scotland to awesome aqueducts in Wales to some of the most well-known icons in the world in London – here are 61 magnificent landmarks of the UK that you’ll be wanting to put on your travel bucket list.

Landmarks of the UK – England

1. Stonehenge

This iconic British monument easily makes it to the top of the list of impressive landmarks in England. The prehistoric wonder is one of England’s most visited monuments and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built over 5,000 years ago, the stone circle for which Stonehenge is best known was erected around 2,500 BC. Each stone is about 4 metres high, just over 2 metres wide and weighs about 25 tons.

Stonehenge is owned by the Crown but managed by English Heritage and became a UNESCO site in 1986. Today nearly 1 million visitors head to Stonehenge each year and crowds flock to see the Winter and Summer solstices set in each year.

It is possible to visit Stonehenge for free but alas you will struggle to capture a good photo from that distance. The standard tour of Stonehenge involves a 2.6 mile one way circular path with a handset filling you in on the history of Stonehenge.

The tour does bring visitors quite close to Stonehenge so it is possible to get some great photos. As always queues at Stonehenge can be lengthy so you may want to book a skip the line ticket for Stonehenge.

2. Big Ben

Big Ben is probably the world’s most famous clock, and when you see it, you’ll know why. The gothic architecture of the long silhouette is impressive and makes for great photo opportunities.

As the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, Big Ben is to London. Big Ben is actually a nickname that stuck. The name refers to both the clock and the clock tower that sits at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. The tower is actually named the Elizabeth Tower. Big Ben is the name of the large bell within the tower, giving it the name it is recognised by today.

The tower was completed in 1859. At that time it was the largest and most accurate clock in the world. Big Ben became a UNESCO listed site in 1987.

In August of 2017 Big Ben was silenced. This market the beginning of a four year project to fully repair and restore bot the clock and the clocktower. They also plan to install a lift which should make life much easier for those charged with keeping Big Ben in good condition ongoing.

The exceptions to the silencing are New Year’s Eve and Remembrance Day. There are no public tours available during the restoration period. However, one clock face can still be seen through the scaffolding.

Discover how this tower came to be and it’s Royal history with a walking tour of Westminster.

3. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall was built in AD122 and the ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site are still standing today. The wall stretches for 73 miles from Wallsend to Bowness. Hadrian’s Wall is very popular with walkers as there is much to explore from old Roman forts to stunning landscapes to traditional English pubs.

hadrian’s wall

4. Avebury Stone Circle

Like Stonehenge, Avebury is a prehistoric site featuring a stone circle. Avebury Henge is actually larger than Stonehenge and is the largest stone circle in England. It was originally made up of around 100 stones. Avebury is part of a range of ceremonial sites that are located around the town of Avebury.

avebury stone circle

5. Windsor Castle

You can’t travel to the UK without a visit to Windsor Castle. Not only is this the Queen’s official residence but it’s the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.

Known for its spectacular architecture and association with the royal family, you will be left captivated by the beauty of this castle. And if castles are your thing check out the best castles in Cornwall.

Lovely Windsor Castle is not only The Queen’s home away from home in the United Kingdom and it is also where Harry and Meghan were married.

Windsor is just over 25 miles west of London and easily reached by train on a 35-minute journey.

Windsor Castle

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. The chapel is open to visitors Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

⇒ As Windsor Castle is a working palace it is subject to last-minute closures. It is generally open most days between 10 am and 4 pm and closes at 3 pm in the Winter. Buy your Windsor Castle tickets ahead online to skip the queues.

6. White Cliffs of Dover

Chalky white cliffs hugging the shoreline of Kent have got to be one of the most incredible natural views in England. The cliffs became a signal of hope for troops returning from World Wars across the English Channel. These days, they’re a symbol of the beauty of England.

Dover’s famous white cliffs

There are also other great things to see along the cliffs, including the Victorian South Foreland Lighthouse. If you are heading to the White Cliffs of Dover, stay and explore Kent for a few days, and stay in one of the gorgeous boutique hotels in Kent.

The white cliffs of Dover

7. The Angel of the North

This sculpture which stands over the city of Newcastle is probably the most famous piece of art in England. Created by Anthony Gormley, the statue was erected in 1998 in Gateshead. The Angel of the North is 20 metres high and 54 metres wide and thought to be the largest sculpture of an angel of anywhere in the world.

Travelsphere and Just You return to China after four years

Wed, 08 May 2024 11:36:18 +0000

G Touring brands put 2025 itineraries on sale

NON STOP flights from Geneva to MADEIRA for €68

Emilija — Wed, 08 May 2024 11:25:14 +0000

Cheap direct flights from Geneva to MADEIRA from €68 round-trip by EasyJet. Find cheap flights from Geneva to Madeira (Funchal) and book your tickets at the best price. Tickets cost from 68 EUR both ways.

Lying 967 km southwest of Lisbon in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is an archipelago consisting of two inhabited islands — Madeira and Porto Santo. Despite its small size, the archipelago has been known for centuries. It appeared on the late 14th century maps, and it is proof that the sailors had known about the Madeira archipelago. Often called the island of eternal spring, Madeira is a great year-round destination. Madeira will appeal to all nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, as the archipelago has got plenty of hiking options and it boasts rich flora. With its beautiful white sand beaches, Madeira’s sister island Porto Santo attracts sun seekers and beach bums. What to do in Madeira? Here’s our list of some of the best places to visit in Madeira.

Travel dates:

November – December 2024

Route:

Geneva – Madeira (Funchal) – Geneva

Examples:

12 – 19 Nov
16 – 23 Nov
26 – 30 Nov
26 Nov – 3 Dec
10 – 17 Dec

Where to book:

Book on SKYSCANNER

Baggage policy:

Hand baggage (45x36x20 cm) is included!

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page, Telegram

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post NON STOP flights from Geneva to MADEIRA for €68 appeared first on TravelFree.

NON STOP flights from Barcelona to ALGERIA for €34

Admin — Wed, 08 May 2024 10:55:43 +0000

Flights from Barcelona to Algeria from €34 both ways by Vueling! Find the cheapest flights to Algiers and book your tickets at the best price! Tickets to Algiers from Barcelona will cost from €34 both ways!

Planning a trip to Algeria and wondering what are the best places to visit in Algeria? Algeria is the largest country in Africa by area. It’s massive and very diverse and offers extraordinary experiences. But despite this fact, it’s not a popular destination in Africa. But you should add Algeria to your bucket list. For example, the long Mediterranean coastline, dunes of the Sahara desert, mountains, fantastic ancient cities, Roman ruins and other fabulous tourist attractions await you in Algeria. Sounds interesting? Check out our list of some of the best things to do in Algeria for some travel inspiration!

Route:

Barcelona – Algiers – Barcelona

Travel dates:

October – December 2024

Some examples:

1 – 5 Oct
15 – 22 Oct
3 – 10 Nov
3 – 17 Nov
2 – 9 Dec

Where to book:

Visit SKYSCANNER

Baggage policy:

Underseat bag: All customers can take an under-seat bag on board, free of charge (max. 40x20x30 cm)

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page, Telegram

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post NON STOP flights from Barcelona to ALGERIA for €34 appeared first on TravelFree.

Viva adds winter Seine sailings

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:55:12 +0000

Seven departures offered at end of year

NON STOP flights from Barcelona to San Francisco, USA for €326 PRICE DROP

Admin — Wed, 08 May 2024 10:25:50 +0000

Cheap direct flights from Barcelona to SAN FRANCISCO from €326 round-trip by Iberia for Level. Find cheap flights to the USA from Spain and book your tickets at the best price! Flights cost from €326 both ways.

Curious about the best places to visit on the West Coast of the USA? The United States of America is one of the largest countries in the world. It is located in North America and consists of 50 states. The sheer size and diversity of the U.S. make it a great travel destination. There is everything for everyone in the U.S.: World Class national parks, some of the world’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, stunning beaches, vibrant cities and charming coastal towns. Here is a list of some of the best places to visit on the West Coast of the USA.

Route:

Barcelona – San Francisco – Barcelona

Travel dates:

September – October 2024

Some examples:

24 Sep – 8 Oct
26 Sep – 10 Oct
1 – 15 Oct
8 – 19 Oct
8 – 22 Oct
10 – 22 Oct

Where to book:

Visit SKYSCANNER

Baggage policy:

Iberia / Level: Hand baggage (56 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm) is included!

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page, Telegram

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post NON STOP flights from Barcelona to San Francisco, USA for €326 **PRICE DROP** appeared first on TravelFree.

Audley targets super rich clients with private concierge service

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:12:32 +0000

Exclusive offering aimed at high net worth individuals

Flights from Warsaw to BOSTON (USA) from €328

Emilija — Wed, 08 May 2024 09:55:33 +0000

Cheap flights from Warsaw to Boston from €328 round-trip by Fly Play. Find cheap flights from Warsaw, Poland to Boston, USA and book your tickets at the best price! The tickets will cost from 328 EUR both ways.

USA – It is located in North America and consists of 50 states. The sheer size and diversity of the U.S. make it a great travel destination. There is everything for everyone in the U.S. Some of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders, great beaches, islands, vibrant cities and renowned national parks and trails. As the United States of America is very rich in sights and landmarks, it’s not too easy to choose only a few. To make this task easier, in this article we will focus on the East Coast only. Read more about the 7 best places to visit on the EAST COAST of the USA.

Here is a list of some of the best places to visit on the East Coast of the USA (here is also an article if you want to know some of the best places to visit on the West Coast of the USA)

Route:

Warsaw – Boston – Warsaw

Travel dates:

September – October 2023

Some examples:

30 Sep – 13 Oct €346
4 – 13 Oct €359
7 – 20 Oct €328
11 – 20 Oct €340
11 – 24 Oct €359

NB! There is a long stopover in Reykjavik, Iceland. You will have a chance to explore the city!

Where to book:

Visit SKYSCANNER

Baggage policy:

Hand baggage (42x32x25 cm) is included!

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page.

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post Flights from Warsaw to BOSTON (USA) from €328 appeared first on TravelFree.

Responsible Travel founder takes new role as joint managing directors appointed

Wed, 08 May 2024 09:51:56 +0000

Justin Francis becomes executive chair of sustainable firm

AE Expeditions’ chief marketing officer to depart line

Wed, 08 May 2024 09:48:01 +0000

Hayley Peacock-Gower to ‘pursue new opportunity’

Flights to Palma de Mallorca from Helsinki, Finland from €142 (summer)

Admin — Wed, 08 May 2024 09:22:28 +0000

Flights from Helsinki to MALLORCA from €142 round-trip by SAS / Norwegian! Find cheap flights from Helsinki, Finland to Palma de Mallorca and book at the best price. Flights to Mallorca cost from €142 both ways.

Traditional and rich in culture and history, yet very modern and vibrant, Spain has a lot to offer to its visitors. Friendly people and great cuisine will greet you with the warmest welcome everywhere in the country – from the smallest villages to the largest and busiest cities. Curious about the best things to do in Spain? Check out the article about 7 Best things to do in Spain.

Mallorca is quite popular European destination thanks to its sunny Mediterranean personality. With its azure views, white beaches, turquoise waters, remote mountains and beautiful hill towns it’s no doubt a dream-like island. Most people tend to hesitate when it comes to visiting a small island which is known somewhat touristic. But I am here to change your mind about Mallorca! Check out 5 reasons to visit Mallorca.

Route:

Helsinki – Palma de Mallorca – Helsinki

Travel dates:

August 2024

Some examples:

13 – 20 Aug €146
15 – 20 Aug €144
15 – 23 Aug €157
17 – 24 Aug €181
20 – 28 Aug €145

There may be a long stopover in Stockholm, Sweden. You will have time to explore the city!

Where to book:

Visit SKYSCANNER

Baggage policy:

Norwegian: An underseat bag (30x20x38 cm) is included!
SAS: An underseat bag (40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm) is included!

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page, Telegram

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post Flights to Palma de Mallorca from Helsinki, Finland from €142 (summer) appeared first on TravelFree.

Hay Festival 2024; Families & Sports Day

Brecon Beacons Tourism — Wed, 08 May 2024 09:19:52 +0000

The count down is on and excitements is building for the 2024 Hay Literary Festival

23 May – 2 June 2024 the booktown of Hay-on-Wye welcomes writers, readers, thinkers and dreamers of all ages for 11 days of events and activities.

As the world’s leading festival of ideas, Hay Festival brings readers and writers together to inspire, examine and entertain.

The site is free to enter with tickets starting from just £5, explore the full programme and book your tickets at hayfestival.org/hay-on-wye.

New for 2024

Sports Day

To mark this Olympic year, we present our first ever Hay Festival Sports Day on Wednesday 29 May. Worlds collide as leading thinkers join sports stars for a showcase of creative talent. One of football’s most successful players ever, Gary Lineker discusses his latest act as head of a podcasting empire, Lord Sebastian Coe discusses its past and future with journalist Matthew d’Ancona, plus a packed schedule of free pop-up sporting activities take over the site on Wednesday 29 May.

Hay Festival President Stephen Fry joins cricketing experts Azeem Rafiq and Claire Taylor to discuss the big issues in the game with scientist Adam Rutherford. He is also umpiring a celebrity cricket match.

The QI elves and No Such Thing as a Fish podcasters James Harkin and Anna Ptaszynski test your knowledge in their interactive sports quiz.

Family Fun

Hay Festival Families – There’s so much to entertain the whole family at Hay Festival, from babies to grown-ups. Feed your creativity and curiosity in inclusive events with authors, illustrators and performers.

Learn new skills in interactive make & take workshops.

Spend time together in the new Family Garden – exploring, reading, playing.

Our 2024 programme for young people includes BBC Ranger Hamza Yassin, Wimpy Kid Jeff Kinney, Spice Girl Geri Halliwell-Horner, astronomer extraordinaire Maggie Aderin-Pocock, poets Michael Rosen, Joseph Coelho, Hanan Issa, Casi Wyn, scientists Robert Winston, Dr Amir Khan, activists Shelina Janmohamed, Jeffrey Boakye, Nikita Gill, illustrators Rob Biddulph, Lauren Child, Ed Vere, and many more, from Lenny Henry, Michael Morpurgo, Greg Jenner, MC Grammar, AF Steadman, Cressida Cowell, Jacqueline Wilson, Robin Stevens, Katherine Rundell, Preet Chandi, Abi Elphinstone, Katya Balen, Laura Dockrill, Nia Morais, David Baddiel, Julian Clary & David Roberts to Dermot O’Leary.

Where to stay

Take a look at some of our recommendations in and around Hay.

Baskerville Hall offers a range of accommodation a short distance from Hay on Wye. 28 en-suite rooms, camping and bunkhouse style accommodation.

By The Wye ; Glamping in a tree house, a sauna, hot tubs, small peoples playing areas and getting close to nature are all part of this experience. A breathe of fresh air is often all it takes.

River Wye Activity Centre ; with camping & bunkhouse accommodations they cover many bases for group and family options. With regular food pop ups during weekends and holiday periods you will find a piece of peace away from the bustle of Hay itself.

Lower Porthamel Camping ; settle in your tent, in an orchard, beautifully understated.

Other accommodations throughout the area Where to Stay

What to do

Black Mountain Activity Centre ; Inspired by those talks? Get outside and do something a little different.

Walk Hay ; Take a guided walk with Sarah and find out about the area. Sarah offers private walking experiences or join one of her group walks.

River Wye Activity Centre ; From Canoeing to Archery

Other Things To Do

Where to eat

Bear in mind booking is pretty much essential during the festival period, do call ahead before setting off to find food.

Chapters Restaurant ; Small and perfectly formed. In Hay town centre. Holder of a Green Michelin Star for sustainability.

The Felin Fach Griffin ; Award winning gastro pub, sited about 15 minutes away from Hay, Childrens Menu available.

Various pop ups appear on local businesses Social medias

Check out Sobramesa in Talgarth.

Jet2holidays launches sale on travel agency bookings

Wed, 08 May 2024 09:01:24 +0000

Operator ‘slashes’ prices across all summer 2024 departures

Flights from Vilnius to Croatia / Greece / North Macedonia from €117

Mari — Wed, 08 May 2024 08:51:13 +0000

Flights from Vilnius to Thessaloniki / Skopje / Dubrovnik from €117 round-trip by airBaltic. Find the cheapest flights from Vilnius, Lithuania to North Macedonia / Croatia / Greece and book your tickets at the best price. Tickets to Croatia will cost from 117 EUR both ways.

Croatia, officially the Republic of Croatia (Croatian: Republika Hrvatska, About this soundlisten (help·info)), is a country at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, on the Adriatic Sea. Its capital, Zagreb, forms one of the country’s primary subdivisions, along with twenty counties. Croatia has an area of 56,594 square kilometres (21,851 square miles) and a population of 4.28 million, most of whom are Roman Catholics. Check out article about 7 Best Places to Visit in Croatia

Also check out: Fantastic Natural Wonders of Croatia

North Macedonia is a country with many ethnic minorities. There is still some ethnic tension between Albanians (who form the majority in the northwest) and Macedonians, so this is a subject best avoided. It almost came to civil war a few years ago. North Macedonia has warm, dry summers and autumns, and relatively stable winters with fairly cold temperatures. North Macedonia is covered by mountainous territory marked by deep basins and valleys filled with fruity goodness. There are three large lakes, Ohrid lake, Prespa lake and Dojran lake, each divided by a frontier line, and the country bisected by the Vardar River.

North Macedonia is blessed with outstanding natural beauty. Do not miss a trip to one of the large lakes, Pelister Mountains, Shar Planina in the West, and the fascinating rolling hills and mountains of the East with its rice fields. Check out the 7 best places to visit in North Macedonia.

Greece, officially the Hellenic Republic, also known as Hellas, is a sovereign state located in Southern and Southeast Europe. Its population is approximately 10.7 million as of 2018; Athens is the nation’s capital and largest city, followed by Thessaloniki. Situated on the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula, Greece is located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It shares land borders with Albania to the northwest, North Macedonia and Bulgaria to the north, and Turkey to the northeast. Check out article about 7 Best Places to Visit in Greece

Travel dates:

May – June 2024

Routes & examples:

Vilnius – Skopje – Vilnius
23 – 27 May €117
2 – 7 Jun €117
6 – 14 Jun €117
13 – 17 Jun €117
13 – 21 Jun €117

Vilnius – Dubrovnik – Vilnius

21 – 25 May €128
21 – 28 May €128
28 May – 1 Jun €128
28 May – 4 Jun €128
4 – 11 Jun €128
11 – 18 Jun €128
18 – 22 Jun €128
18 – 25 Jun €128

Vilnius – Thessaloniki – Vilnius

20 – 25 May €157
24 May – 1 Jun €157
31 May – 8 Jun €157
3 – 8 Jun €157
10 – 18 Jun €157
17 – 22 Jun €157

Where to book?

Visit SKYSCANNER

Baggage policy:

1 cabin bag (55x40x23 cm) + 1 personal item (30x40x10 cm) are included!

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page.

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post Flights from Vilnius to Croatia / Greece / North Macedonia from €117 appeared first on TravelFree.

Europe’s Last Wilderness: The Ancient Forest of Bialowieza That Time Forgot

Mike Kaplan — Wed, 08 May 2024 08:45:49 +0000

Situated on the border between Poland and Belarus, Bialowieza National Park provides a unique glimpse into Europes ancient past. Recognized...

airBaltic express SALE: tickets from €16 one way!

Admin — Wed, 08 May 2024 08:15:18 +0000

airBaltic SPRING SALE 2024: cheap flights from €16 one-way! For the next 48 hours, airBaltic is rolling out a surprise express sale from May 8 to May 9 with irresistible deals! Whether you’ve been eyeing a beach escape, a city adventure, or a romantic getaway, don’t let this opportunity fly away! Hurry up! You have only 48 hours to book your flights and the seats are selling out quickly. Don’t miss sale by airBaltic!

AirBaltic – The Baltic’s leading airline Latvian airline. Air Baltic Corporation AS (airBaltic) was founded in 1995. Its primary shareholder is the Latvian state, which holds 96.14% of the stock, while Lars Thuesen holds 3.86% through his fully-owned Aircraft Leasing 1 SIA. airBaltic is a hybrid airline taking the best practices both from traditional network airlines and low-cost carriers. In 2008, airBaltic changed its operating model from a point-to-point carrier to a network airline making Riga a connecting hub. The airline offers low fare tickets in its network spanning Europe, Scandinavia, Russia, CIS and the Middle East. The prices are competitive not only with other airlines but also with the prices of bus, car, train, or ferry travel. Tickets are available not only for direct flights but also for transfer flights.

Sale period:

8 -9 May 2024

Travel period:

15 May – 30 June 2024

Some routes and examples (one-way):

Riga – Stockholm €16
Riga – Pristina €27
Riga – Prague €37
Riga – Dubrovnik €47
Riga – Paris €47

Vilnius – Copenhagen €27
Vilnius – Hamburg €37
Vilnius – Dubrovnik €47
Vilnius – Paris €57
Vilnius – Amsterdam €77

Tallinn – Vienna €37
Tallinn – Dubrovnik €47
Tallinn – Paris €57

Tampere – Sofia €57
Stockholm – Pristina €47
Helsinki – Prague €47

…and many more routes…

Some routes and examples (round-trip):

Vilnius – Krakow – Vilnius €66
Vilnius – Dubrovnik – Vilnius €128
Vilnius – Pristina – Vilnius €118
Riga – Skopje – Riga €98
Riga – Thessaloniki – Riga €138
Riga – Istanbul – Riga €137

Where to book?

AIR BALTIC

Baggage policy:

1 cabin bag (55x40x23 cm) + 1 personal item (30x40x10 cm)

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Keep following TravelFree.info blog and LIKE our Facebook page, Twitter page, Telegram

!! IMPORTANT !! We have created a Facebook group to get only the hottest travel deals and error fares. Join now! After that, you are welcome to discuss topics about travelling!

Do not miss the next TRAVEL DEAL! SIGN UP HERE and get exclusive travel offers to your email box.

Accommodation:

Cancelled or delayed flight?

If your flight is cancelled or delayed by 3+ hours, you may get a refund of up to €600. Check it out at SkyCop.

Tours and excursions:

Have a look at Trip Advisor as well when planning your holiday to find out what’s hot and what’s not when it comes to all the local attractions.

Car rental:

You can find the best car rental prices at AutoEurope.com.

Insurance:

Worldwide travel medical insurance for Nomads. Only from $37 / 4 weeks worldwide, affordable travel medical insurance for anyone, especially for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

Save money with a Free Debit card:

Delivery

Learn new skills

The post airBaltic express SALE: tickets from €16 one way! appeared first on TravelFree.

Travel firms must avoid ‘short-changing’ customers on compensation, says lawyer

Wed, 08 May 2024 08:11:07 +0000

Carnival UK general counsel warns companies against ‘embarrassing’ approach

P&O Cruises changes alcohol allowance for embarking passengers

Wed, 08 May 2024 08:11:05 +0000

Customers no longer permitted to take beer, spirits or liqueur on board

The Hidden World Beneath a Small Polish Town: Wieliczka Salt Mine

Mike Kaplan — Wed, 08 May 2024 08:03:49 +0000

Nestled in the town of Wieliczka, just a quick drive from Krakow in Poland, you’ll find a hidden gem that...

Loganair confirms new chair in latest change at the top

Wed, 08 May 2024 08:01:24 +0000

Peter Simpson retires after almost a decade

Baldwins Travel acquires Kent agency Westerham Travel

Wed, 08 May 2024 08:00:12 +0000

Eleventh store in network will undergo refurbishment

Comment: Are management buyouts worth the gamble?

Wed, 08 May 2024 07:50:06 +0000

Diana Evans of HotelshopUK and Great Little Breaks shares her experience of completing an MBO

Disney projects ‘robust’ income growth at theme parks and cruise line

Wed, 08 May 2024 07:42:40 +0000

Entertainments giant ‘turbocharging’ growth at experiences arm

P&O Ferries boss ‘could not live on’ £4.87 an hour seafarer’s wage

Wed, 08 May 2024 07:15:11 +0000

Peter Hebblethwaite tells MPs he accepted £183,000 bonus

Akasa Air Enhances Its Pet-Travel Service: ‘Pets on Akasa’

Neha Sharma — Wed, 08 May 2024 06:56:22 +0000

Enhances permissible weight of pet carriage to 10kgs in cabin Achieves milestone of carrying more than 3,200 pets since the launch of Pets on Akasa service

Akasa Air, India’s most dependable airline, recently declare key enhancements to its pet-travel service – Pets on Akasa. Moreover, the airline has also crossed the milestone of carrying 3,200+ pets since the service launched in November 2022.

As part of the enhancements, Akasa Air now allows customers to travel with pets weighing up to 10 kgs in the cabin – an increase from the previous limit of 7 kgs. This change has been introduced keeping customer feedback in mind, reflecting the airline’s commitment to continuously enhance its services to meet the evolving travel needs of its customers.

In addition, Akasa Air is implementing an enhanced travel certificate policy to provide greater flexibility for customers. Travel certificates issued for pets will now remain valid for up to 15 days instead of three days, adding convenience for customers booked on return for short-term travel. Customers travelling for longer than 15 days will be required to obtain a new travel certificate.

Customers booked with their pets on Akasa Air, also enjoy a host of complimentary value-added services such as a pre-booked window seat, priority baggage delivery and priority boarding that elevates their flying experience. Akasa Air has invested in extensive research and training across its customer care centre, airports, and in-flight teams, underscoring the airline’s dedication towards maintaining the highest standards of care, safety, and comfort throughout the journey. Furthermore, Akasa Air has also partnered with Umeed for Animals Foundation to implement best practices by collaborating across processes and policies to continuously enhance pet comfort and safety.

Commenting on the product enhancement, Belson Coutinho, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing & Experience Officer, at Akasa Air said, “Thanks to the love and support of pet parents and their constructive feedback, we are pleased to announce key enhancements to our Pets on Akasa service. This positive change not only reinforces our commitment to listening to feedback from our customers but also endorses our culture of using feedback for continuous improvement.

Mr. Coutinho added, “Since the inception of our Pets on Akasa service, we have worked to create an inclusive and humane travel experience and we are pleased to have flown over 3,200 pets since the start of our Pets on Akasa service.”

Launched on 1st November 2022, Pets on Akasa allows customers to travel on domestic flights across 22 cities with their cats and dogs in the cabin or cargo, based on their weight. Akasa Air has introduced multiple quality products and differentiated services to ensure an inclusive, warm and comfortable flying experience. Its brand-new fleet provides generous legroom for enhanced comfort and comes with in-seat USB charging ports in a majority of aircraft. Café Akasa, the airline’s onboard meal service offers an assortment of healthy and delectable meals, including festive menus and industry-first options such as Kombucha, to offer customers an indulgent gourmet experience in the skies. Travelers can choose to plan their travel with Akasa Holidays which offers customisable and all-inclusive holiday packages at affordable prices. In addition, in an endeavour to make travel inclusive, Akasa Air has introduced its safety instruction card and onboard menu card in Braille for persons with visual impairment.
Since its launch in August 2022, Akasa Air has served over 8 million passengers and connects with 22 cities, namely Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kochi, Delhi, Guwahati, Agartala, Pune, Lucknow, Goa, Hyderabad, Varanasi, Bagdogra, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Port Blair, Ayodhya, Gwalior, Srinagar, Prayagraj and Doha (Qatar).

How to Use 75K Ultimate Rewards for Hotels

Pam — Wed, 08 May 2024 06:18:40 +0000

These cards will help you earn those 75K Ultimate Rewards (spoiler alert – the higher-than-usual signup bonus is available NOW on the CSP and CSR):

Hotels

Your 75K points can be used for flights and hotel stays. You can transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to three hotel partners.

Chase Hotel Transfer Partners

Hyatt
IHG
Marriott

All Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer at a 1:1 ratio, so one Chase UR equals one World of Hyatt point. Hyatt has an award chart—rooms start at just 3.5K points/night and go up to 45K points/night. On the other hand, IHG and Marriott don’t have award charts but use dynamic pricing (the cost in points is tied to the cash rate). Often, they charge more points than Hyatt for a similar caliber hotel.

Because of this, we recommend sticking to Hyatt when it comes to transferring your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to hotel partners. The only time I would transfer points to IHG or Marriott would be to top off my account if I am just short on points to book my trip or extend my stay. Here are some ideas for how to use 75K Ultimate Rewards for hotels:

Two- Three Nights at a 5 Star Resort in Kauai

You can stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai for 30K Hyatt points/night. This resort is absolutely beautiful! It was the first hotel Alex stayed at using points, and it set the bar high! If you can find off-peak nights, you can even stay three nights with just one sign up bonus!

This lagoon area is such a fun spot at the Grand Hyatt Kauai.

Two-Three Nights at the Hyatt Regency Maui

Depending on if you find standard or off-peak dates, you can spend 2-3 nights at the Hyatt Regency Maui. We have been there several times and are returning after Christmas this year. It is a great family or couples stay.

The best part of using points to stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui is the opportunity to create wonderful family memories together.

6 Nights at the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile

You can stay six nights at just 15K Hyatt points/night at the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile. This skyscraper hotel offers stunning views of the city! We really enjoyed our stay there when we were in Paris.

Enjoy these stunning Paris views!

2 Nights at the Park Hyatt Sydney

This is a bucket list stay for sure. Both Jess and I have stayed there, and it was phenomenal. There are great views of the Sydney Opera House, too! You will need to find off-peak nights for this stay.

This upgraded hotel room at the Park Hyatt Sydney was a welcome retreat.

15 Nights at a Category 1 Hyatt

Fifteen! That is a lot of nights! Before you assume that category 1 means it’s a junk hotel, let me assure you, it does not! Alex has stayed at many Hyatt Category 1 hotels, and they have all been really nice! When her kids travel for sports, they take a road trip or need a nice, clean place and don’t need the whole resort experience; they often stay at Hyatt Place hotels. They are our favorite family hotel brand.

She gets two queen beds, a pull-out sofa bed, and a free breakfast for her family of six. Many of the ones she has stayed at have been brand new as well and in really great locations. She is lucky to live near many great Hyatt Place hotels that start at just 3.5K Hyatt points/night for off-peak dates. If you can find off-peak availability, that’s more than 18 nights! Alex took her son to stay overnight at a Category 1 Hyatt Place for his birthday. He loved it!

We love Hyatt Place hotels!

Best Hyatt Hotels to Use a Free Annual Night Certificate

The post How to Use 75K Ultimate Rewards for Hotels appeared first on Travel Mom Squad.

Airport e-gates back online after ‘nationwide issue’ blamed for disruption

Wed, 08 May 2024 05:32:04 +0000

System failure hits arriving passengers at key gateways

Indian airlines to capture nearly 50% of international passenger traffic by FY2028, predicts CRISIL

amiitttaaaa — Wed, 08 May 2024 05:15:12 +0000

In a key development, CRISIL Ratings report revealed that Indian airlines are set to capture nearly 50 per cent of international passenger traffic by FY28 from 43 per cent in FY24. Along with that, the growth in domestic traffic is expected at 10-11 per cent over the same period. India’s international passenger traffic grew to around 70 million in FY24, from 10 million in FY21.

FHRAI hosts gathering to boost J&K’s travel sector, aims to make the UT a premier tourist destination

amiitttaaaa — Wed, 08 May 2024 05:08:53 +0000

In a bid to boost tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, FHRAI organised a pivotal gathering of tourism stakeholders. The event ignited discussions to propel Union Territory’s tourism development through regulatory frameworks, facilitating investments, and implementing innovative marketing strategies to showcase J&K as a premier tourist destination.

Ministry of Tourism launches ‘Coolcation’ campaign to promote India as a year-round tourist destination

amiitttaaaa — Wed, 08 May 2024 05:02:26 +0000

In order to make India’s tourism offerings more attractive and accessible throughout the year, Manisha Saxena, DG, MOT, GoI, highlighted the ‘Coolcation,’ campaign, aimed at showcasing country’s cooler regions and diversifying the tourist experience beyond the conventional peak seasons, while challenging misconceptions about India’s climate.

In 2024, Goa tourism shone at The Great Indian Travel Bazaar with immersive experiences.

Neha Sharma — Wed, 08 May 2024 05:01:13 +0000

The Great Indian Travel Bazaar 2024, served as a pivotal platform for Goa Tourism which was held from May 5th-7th, 2024 in Jaipur, Rajasthan. This prestigious event gathered travel agents, tour operators, hoteliers, and other influential stakeholders from all around the world, to not only highlight but also explore the diverse and rich tapestry of India’s tourism offerings.

At GITB, Goa Tourism’s presentation emerged as a focal point, captivating attendees and sparking their imaginations with the promise of unforgettable experiences. With its pristine coastlines, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant entertainment scene, Goa enraptured travelers from around the globe. Led by dedicated delegates such as Mr. Sanjeev Ahuja, Secretary Tourism, Government of Goa Mr. Dhiraj Vagle, Deputy Director Tourism, Government of Goa, and Mr. Akshay Govekar, Manager Marketing, GTDC, the delegation showcased the essence of the state through captivating display, leaving an indelible impression on all those present. Their efforts not only drew attention to Goa’s unique offerings but also reaffirmed its status as a premier travel destination within India.

At GITB 2024, Goa Tourism’s pavilion stood as a beacon of immersive experiences, showcasing not only the state’s picturesque beaches and vibrant culture but also its commitment to Regenerative Tourism. Leveraging cutting-edge technology such as virtual reality and interactive screens, visitors could experience the serene landscapes and cultural gems of Goa. The pavilion didn’t just highlight the typical tourist attractions; it delved deeper into the essence of Regenerative Tourism, showcasing Goa’s sustainable initiatives and community-driven projects. From eco-conscious accommodations to organic farming experiences, Goa Tourism emphasized its dedication to preserving the environment and supporting local communities.

As visitors immersed themselves in the interactive displays, they delved into Goa’s multifaceted allure, discovering its rich spiritual tourism, hinterland exploration, adventurous offerings, spice plantations, and vibrant local culture and festivals. The seamless integration of Goa Tourism’s participation at the event enlightened visitors about the depth of “Goa Beyond the Beaches.” It highlighted the increasing interest and admiration for Goa’s holistic tourism approach, blending sustainability with immersive experiences.

Representing a diverse global trade, buyers from various corners of the world converged at the vibrant Goa Tourism pavilion, where they forged invaluable connections and delved into promising partnership opportunities. Within this dynamic networking environment, collaborations blossomed, carrying the potential to significantly enhance Goa’s tourism profile on the international stage. In its endeavor to diversify its tourism offerings, Goa Tourism is strategically emphasizing the promotion of weddings and MICE in the state. Recognizing the allure of its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and world-class hospitality, Goa presents an ideal destination for hosting weddings, whether it’s intimate ceremonies on serene beaches or grand celebrations in luxurious resorts. Moreover, with its state-of-the-art conference facilities, coupled with a blend of leisure and business amenities, Goa caters seamlessly to the needs of MICE travelers, offering a perfect balance between work and leisure. Goa Tourism’s proactive approach in showcasing these opportunities underscores its commitment to catering to a diverse range of travelers and further solidifying its position as a premier destination for weddings and MICE events.

In the words of Mr. Sanjeev Ahuja, Secretary Tourism, Government of Goa: “Participating in platforms like GITB enables us to highlight Goa as the first state in India to adopt the Regenerative Tourism model. We connected with key stakeholders and forged ways to potential partnerships to develop Goa as a destination for weddings, MICE tourism, and spiritual tourism. Additionally, discussions with esteemed leaders like Ms. Jyotsna Suri, Owner of the Lalit group of hotels and ex- chairperson of FICCI, was enlightening in terms of showcasing our proactive solutions and collaborations with industry stakeholders, emphasizing our commitment to improving activities and services in Goa. Such engagements hold the potential to convert into fruitful associations, fostering sustainable growth and development in our tourism sector.”

Jaipur stands as a crucial market for Goa Tourism, drawing in travelers with its rich historical heritage, vibrant culture, and penchant for luxury. Known for its opulent palaces, majestic forts, and bustling markets, Jaipur’s allure resonates with those seeking a blend of tradition and modernity. For Goa Tourism, tapping into Jaipur’s market offers a gateway to attract discerning travelers who appreciate authenticity, adventure, and immersive experiences. Whether it’s promoting serene beach getaways, cultural escapades, or thrilling adventures, Jaipur serves as a strategic hub for Goa Tourism to showcase its diverse offerings and cement its position as a premier travel destination. This international gathering reaffirmed India’s stature as a premier global tourism destination, showcasing its diverse attractions, rich heritage, and warm hospitality to a global audience. Through collaborative efforts and shared experiences, GITB 2024 further cemented India’s position as a top choice for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences and meaningful connections.

In its 13th edition, GITB 2024 continued its tradition of drawing participants from across the globe, creating a vibrant melting pot of ideas, cultures, and opportunities. With around 55 countries participating, the event served as a dynamic platform where tourism professionals, stakeholders, and enthusiasts converged to exchange insights, forge partnerships, and explore new avenues in the ever-evolving tourism landscape