An Insiders View on Cyprus

By Evropi Navrozidou

Everything the guide books or tourism websites won’t tell you about the place

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, with spectacular scenery and an enviable climate. An island of beauty and a country of contrasts with its cool, pine-clad mountains forming a complete scene-change compared to the golden sun-kissed beaches. Cyprus may be a small country, but it is a large island with a big heart; an island that gives its visitors a genuine welcome and treats them as friends.

What makes Cyprus an ideal travel destination for all?

Whether you prefer to relax and enjoy your stay on the beach or want to experience new adventures, Cyprus is the ideal place to be. The island offers a wide range of activities such as cycling on the outstanding Limassol promenade, Segway tours, participating in dance workshops and yoga sessions, golf training, countless cultural and art activities. As for the more adventurous individuals visiting the island, guests have the opportunity to enjoy team building activities such as dragon boat racing, motorbike tours, off-road bike expeditions, mountain quad safaris, antique car rallies, jeep expeditions and even horse riding.

Quad Ride

Tell us something that every traveller should know when traveling to Cyprus?

Hospitality in Cyprus is legendary and Cypriots have a unique way of creating a warm and loving atmosphere that makes people feel relaxed and welcomed. The strong spirit of hospitality always leaves visitors impressed every time they visit Cyprus.

Bring a big appetite and try a traditional meze. Meze or mezze is a selection of small dishes. It is the Cypriot style of eating where there are many different courses, but each course contains just a little of each item, enough for everyone to have a taste while incorporating what’s fresh each season. The Mezze is more than just a meal it’s all about sharing and bringing people together.

Lastly, if you do not know what to do after a morning on the beach, you can head up to Troodos Mountains just an hour away and hit the ski slopes. Cyprus is able to offer just about everything.

Any essentials that one needs to carry when they traveling to Cyprus? 

A hat, swimwear, a pair of sunglasses and your sunscreen, these are your 4 must-have pieces!

Which are the most surreal places to visit when in Cyprus?

Some of the most surreal places to visit in Cyprus are the following:
Akamas Peninsula
Larnaca Salt Lake
Troodos Peaks
Cape Creco, Ayia Napa


Ayia Napa

Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals? 

If you want to immerse yourself into the local culture, you need to know a couple of things:

Experience the café Culture:
Cypriots love coffee and particularly frothy ice coffee that we have mastered to creamy caffeinated perfection! On Fridays and weekends all over the island, the Cypriots like to gather with friends and family to share their news and stories. Hang around long enough and some cafes turn into bars and music venues, where you can spend the rest of the evening drinking cheerfully with the locals.

The “Siesta”:
The sun rhythms the day of the locals, the sun rises early (get a few things done before temperatures rise…), burns at its zenith (just give into that sleepy feeling after lunch so you’re all rested after 5 pm) and sets when life on the island picks up again (dress up well and get ready for your nightlife as in line with Mediterranean culture dinner starts and lasts late).
Embrace the slow pace of life, eat well (and slow!), and you’ll come back rejuvenated and in love with this beautiful island.

What are the local delicacies/drinks which one must try and where in Cyprus?

Meze:  No visit to Cyprus is complete without enjoying the traditional meal of many small dishes known as ‘meze’. It comprises of an array of approximately 20 dishes, starting with dips, salads and followed by casserole dishes and charcoal grilled meat or fish or both!

Meze

Loukoumia:  It has a soft, jelly-like and sometimes sticky consistency, and is often packaged and eaten in small cubes dusted with icing sugar or coconut to prevent clinging. They are exotic, intensely sweets with a delicate flavor of sweetness from most of the times rosewater and icing sugar. “It is a Cyprus delight sweet.”

Soutzoukos:  Is a traditional, chewy sweet made from grape juice that has a unique appearance (it looks similar to a candle!), and is popular at traditional festivals. The sweet is made using the surplus of grapes after the grape harvest, which is why it is commonly made in the wine-producing villages of the Troodos and Paphos regions.

Zivania: With an alcohol content of 40-99%, it is no surprise that is also referred to nationally as ‘firewater’!

Halloumi: Is the island’s most famous cheese! Made from goat or sheep’s milk, this white semi-hard cheese has been produced on the island for centuries and is traditionally prepared with a precise recipe.

What are things which one must buy when in Cyprus?

Olives : Olive oil and associated goods are probably the must buy gifts that you should bring home from Cyprus. Olives have been cultivated on the island since ancient times, and the expansion of the olive cultivars has been growing at the beginning of the 20th century after the British founded 6 new olive farms that provided this rapid expansion.

Honey: Cyprus has a long-standing tradition of honey making, producing a large number of high-quality and award-winning kinds of honey that are known for their pureness.

Rose products: Deep in the heart of the Pitsillia region of the island, is a village, Agros, known for its rose-growing and production of rose-related products. From perfumes to cosmetics, to candles, liquors and others, you will definitely try some of the local products made with the fragile light pink flowers.

Wine : Cyprus has been a vine-growing and wine-producing country for millennia and wine is and used to be a major part of the Cypriot diet. Cyprus’s wines rank among the world’s best, finest-quality wines. A big percentage of Cyprus vineyards are planted with indigenous grape varieties that have “melodious-sounding” names like Xinisteri, Maratheftiko, Lefkada and Mavro.

Winery

Which is the most romantic places to visit in Cyprus?

Aphrodite’s Rock during sunset. The combination of the beauty of this place during the sunset and its status in mythology as the birthplace of the goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, make this place as one of the most romantic to visit in Cyprus.

Alphrodite

What are the local festivals which one must come to attend in Cyprus?

There are many local festivals in Cyprus, Limassol stages some of the island’s best-known festivals:

The annual Wine Festival in September, the pre-Lenten Carnival; with masquerade parties, balls and grand parades, and the ancient Drama Festival at Kourion theatre.

Kourion Theatre

The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about?

Cyprus is ranked as the fifth safest country in the world when considering life expectancy, CO2 emissions, national police personnel, traffic deaths, thefts and assaults. As a small Mediterranean country, with a stable political climate, Cyprus has a strong reputation as a trouble-free travel destination.

According to you what is the best thing about Cyprus?

The island has an efficient road transport and communications network, two multi-purpose seaports located in the coastal cities of Limassol and Larnaca and two modern international airports in Larnaca and Paphos. The island’s main resorts are connected by modern highways and make transfers a lot easier. Furthermore, distances in Cyprus are relatively short, which gives delegates the opportunity to explore different parts of the island in a limited period of time. It only takes around 40 minutes to travel from one city to another while the longest distance might be around one and a half hours by car.

Evropi Navrozidou &  Drakos Team

Check out our latest package on Ireland 

An Insiders View on Andaman Islands

By Sherly Jerusha


White sandy beaches separate crystal clear azure waters from lush curtains of rain-forest green: this is nature at its best. With breathtakingly gorgeous coastline, lush forested interior, fantastic diving spots and a boundless location, the Andaman Islands are a perfect place to wander around or simply chill out at the beach side.

Q] One little-known fact that everyone should know when travelling to Andaman’s ?
Andaman has the most fascinating ecosystem – the coral reefs are spectacularly diverse with big crabs, large turtles, vibrant fish and extremely colorful species of butterflies, You will get to see it all.

Q] What is a must buy when in Andaman’s ?
Locally made cane handicrafts, wooden decorative items and accessories made from seashells or pearls are a must buy when in Andaman.

Q] What should one carry when travelling to Andaman’s ?
Loose fitting, light pastel color clothes, and suitable for wearing on the beach. Carry a pair of slipper too.

Q] Where should anyone, definitely get their picture taken when in Andaman’s ?
White sand & rain forest trees lend a tropical vibe to Radhanagar Beach which makes it a perfect spot for taking pictures. It is also one of the best beaches in Andaman.

Q] One thing to definitely pack when travelling to Andaman’s ? Pack a DSLR Camera to capture your memories as Andaman is filled with unexplored places.

Q] One activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss.
Diving and Snorkeling! Havelock Island is one of the most famous places for scuba diving and snorkeling in Andaman.

Q] Which are the restaurants to have local food?
All the seafood restaurant have their own specialty, so I would suggest you to explore and try out for yourself.

Q] Your favorite local dish and drink that you would recommend.
Try the local seafood like fish curries, chilly curry and different types of fish fry.

Q] One place only the locals would know.
Kalapathar beach which is situated on one corner of Havelock Island. The beach gets its name from the surrounding village, which is Kalapathar Village and the black rocks (known as Kalapathar in Hindi) that adorn the coastline here.

Q] A local festival you feel more travelers should come and see
Dashera & Deepawali are the festivals one must experience when in Andaman.

Q] The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about Andaman’s ?
Andaman is beautiful even when it rains. The monsoon paints a very different picture of nature’s beauty – one that needs to be seen to be experienced.

Q] In one sentence, Andaman’s is ..?
Andaman is a Gift of Heaven, and a bliss to all its visitors.

By Sherly Jerusha

Insiders View on South Africa

Pieter Erasmus,  Johannesburg


South Africa is home to a wide array of vibrant, rich cultures, each with their own deep history. The South African landscape is as beautiful as it is diverse. It has an endless abundance of natural wonders – mountains, forests, rock formations, beaches, deserts and various other geological features.

One little-known fact/trivia that everyone should know about when travelling to South Africa?

People sometimes forget that after many years of isolation it is only in the last 20 years or so that tourism has become a viable industry in South Africa. With this South Africans are still fascinated by people from other countries and there is a real interest to talk to people and find out about their cultures and countries. This makes South Africa a very warm and welcoming place to visit.

What is a must buy when in this region?

If I had to narrow it down, then I would say wine. We produce world class quality wine and at a very affordable price. Wine culture in South Africa is very accessible and not “snobbish” so it’s easy to buy good quality wine.

What is your advice to first-time travellers?

Hmmm. Come hungry! We are notorious for our food portions so you will probably leave the country a couple of kilograms heavier.

One thing to definitely pack when travelling to this region?

Sunglasses. South Africa has one of the highest percentages of sunny days per annum of any country in the world.

One activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss.

Africa = safari. So a good safari experience is not too be missed. There are many options but a proper 48-hour stay at a good private game lodge is not too be missed. Unlike some of the other African countries, safari in South Africa is accessible and the infrastructure around the lodges is excellent.

Where should anyone, travelling to this region, definitely get their picture taken?

Difficult one because there are so many spots. Most people, however, will take a picture at the Cape of Good Hope and specifically the most South-Westerly point of the African continent.

Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?

On a clear day from the top of Table Mountain!

The best place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?

Nothing beats the sunset/sunrise in the African bush. Luckily staying at a safari lodge you will be out on safari during both these events so you won’t miss out!

The most romantic place to take a special someone to.

Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands is a beautiful small town that oozes romance. Lovely small boutique hotels and guesthouses and some of the best restaurants in the country to enjoy a romantic dinner.

The best place to have local food?

I love the African dinner experience at Gold Restaurant in Cape Town. More than just dinner it is an evening of African music, storytelling and food.

Your favourite local dish and drink that you would recommend.

For the sweet tooth, a local delegacy is called a Koeksister. Knotted dough deep fried and soaked in syrup. South Africans can have a 10-minute conversation about their favourite type of koeksister!
A favourite non-alcoholic drink is Appetizer, a sparkling apple juice which most people enjoy.

One place only the locals would know.

There are many tourist towns along the Garden Route along the main road like Mossel Bay, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay etc. However, there are some little gems which the locals keep to themselves. Nature’s Valley is a good example, a small coastal enclave with beautiful beaches, mountains and forests.

The best pub and best place to catch up for a drink.

There are some excellent pubs in the city of Cape Town. A personal favourite is called The Village Idiot in Loop Street.
For the non-drinkers, Truth Coffee in Buitenkant Street in Cape Town is widely acclaimed to be the best coffee shop in the world! Try the flat white it’s superb.

A local festival you feel more travellers should come and see.

The annual Knysna Oyster Festival normally takes place at the end of June, beginning of July in Knysna which is outside traditional tourism season for Knysna which is towards the end of the year. Great festival with art, food and some sporting events to participate in.

The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about.

The big turnaround in downtown city of Johannesburg. For years Johannesburg City had a bad reputation around safety, but there are some amazing pockets that are re-developing at an amazing rate like the Maboneng Precinct, Braamfontein etc.
Guidebooks might tell you to avoid Johannesburg City but this is no longer the case!

Is there any particular month you would not recommend travel to this region and what would that reason be?

Not really, South Africa really is all year round destination. Weather is temperate so we don’t have extreme weather or temperature fluctuations.

How would you describe South Africa in one word?

In one sentence, South Africa is Africa “Lite”. Let me explain, South Africa provides a great introduction into the continent of Africa, offering all the experiences people come to Africa for i.e. wildlife, culture etc. but wrapped up in modern, convenient travel experience.
Like a “Lite Beer”, all of the taste, less of the calories…

 

 

Pieter Erasmus,

I am 42 years old and have been in the Tourism Trade for my entire work life.

I love South Africa and I am passionate about sharing this country with the world.

 

Check out our latest package on South Africa 

An Insider’s View on Bhutan

By Koustav Sarkar  


Bhutan
, The Land of the Thunder Dragon 

Bhutan is a Buddhist kingdom on the Himalayas’ eastern edge, known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic landscapes that range from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. The  country’s landscape ranges from lush subtropical plains in the south to the sub-alpine Himalayan mountains in the north. Bhutanese  are environmental friendly and mainly focus on preserving their natural resources and rich culture. Bhutan ranks first in economic freedom, peace and is the least corrupted country in the world.  

Q] Activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss? 

 There is so much to do when you’re in Bhutan, like archery, river rafting, hiking, but soaking yourself in a traditional Hot Stone bath is something one must experience when in Bhutan. 

 Q] One thing you must pack when travelling to Bhutan?

 You definitely want to pack good walking shoes and warm clothes, as you will be using them a lot.

Q] Something that one must buy when they are in Bhutan?

Bhutan is known for its unique, rich hand-woven textiles and interesting painting styles. So one should definitely  buy Bhutanese handicraft, gold and sliver jewellery, handmade wooden bowls, Buddhist paintings and sculptures.  You can buy them at Thimphu, Paro and  Phuntsheoling which are some of the major shopping centres in Bhutan. 

Q] Which are the best places to capture memories when in Bhutan?

Some great picture spots are Tigers nest, Paro dzong and Punakha Suspension Bridge. Don’t forget to take amazing panoramic pictures at Buddha’s point, BBS tower, Dochula and Chelela. 

Q] Any place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?

Dochula Pass is a mountain pass in the snow covered Himalayas within Bhutan, this place offers a 360-degree views of the Himalayas making every sunset and sunrise a surreal experience.

Q] The best place to try authentic local food?

Some of the best places to try authentic Bhutanese cuisine are The Folk Heritage Museum restaurant, Babesa Village restaurant and The Bhutanese which are all located in Thimphu.

Q] Which are the local delicacies which one must try when in Bhutan?

 Ema datshi and Ara are famous Bhutanese curries which one must try. The local wine and beer here are good too.

Q] Which is the best time to visit Bhutan?

October to December is the best time to visit Bhutan.

Q] Any local festivals that a travellers must come visit?

  Thimphu Tshechu is the biggest and the most vibrant festival which every traveller must visit when in Bhutan.

Q] Can you describe Bhutan in one sentence

 Bhutan is vibrant and filled with culture.

 

Overdose of happiness in Bhutan

By  Srinivas Krishnan

Perhaps Pharrell Williams made a trip to Bhutan before he wrote and performed his monster hit of a song, Happy.

Because I’m happy…
Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth

Well, that truth seems to be clear to the Government of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Because their national philosophy is famously called Gross National Happiness!

Because I’m happy…
Clap along if you know what happiness is to you

Do you know what happiness is to you? Well, Bhutan says confidently, ‘Happiness is a place.’ Now, who wouldn’t want to go to a place like that?!

Because I’m happy…
Clap along if you feel like that’s what you wanna do

Clap along, sing along, or simply read along, if that’s where you wanna go…

Tiny Kingdom, Large Heart
Located in the southern foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Bhutan is about 46,500 square kilometres in area and has a population of less than eight lakh people. It may be tiny – even more so, considering its neighbours are the most populous and second-most populous nations on Earth – but it’s a country that’s bigger than the two when it comes to sheer happiness!

A remarkable way of administering a country, here the enlightened Bhutan government prioritises the happiness and well-being of its people as a form of governance. Given that, they make tourists who visit their country a happy bunch too.

Bhutan is a country which has its origins surrounded in mystery, an enigmatic Shangri-La perhaps. It’s a magical land blessed by nature, with an abundance of culture, religion and beauty everywhere you see. Take in the vibrant architecture of the monasteries, dzongs and the temples in the countryside. Walk in the Himalayan wilderness or balance your way through lush green fields. Get up close with God’s own creations. And meditate, like the wise old man at the top of the mountain…

Takes Your Breath Away

How do you do justice to a land as blessed as Bhutan? On the one hand, its beauty seems to be divinely ordained, and on the other, it’s packed with cultural attractions that put your faith back into mankind! Ask us, and we’ll tell you.

We at The Wanderers have put together a Bhutan package that ensures you not only bask in nature’s bounties but also wonder at the marvels made by man. It includes a visit to the gobsmackingly located Tiger’s Nest Monastery as well as to valleys which have views that can make Switzerland jealous. You can get up close with the Takin – a unique goat-antelope – and the Black-Necked Crane as well as marvel at the strategic location of the Punakha Dzong that plays an important role in Bhutan’s history. All this, done in great comfort and with The Wanderers’ attention to detail.

The highlights of Bhutan Escape with The Wanderers

• Visit the Taktsang Lhakhang or the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. Be warned: It will take your breath away in more ways than one!
• Visit the Motitang Takin Preservation Centre to understand the uniqueness of Bhutan’s national animal
• It’s permanent peak season here: have your fill of the mighty mountains here, including Mt. Gangkar Puensum, which at 24,590ft is the tallest in Bhutan
• Sing happy dzongs! Visit the Punakha Dzong, Rinpun Dzong, Wangchulo Dzong as well as other Lhakhangs and Gompas
• Watch beautiful birds strut their stuff at the Black-Necked Crane Information Centre, situated at the edge of the forest and wetlands in the Phobjikha Valley
• Drive through lush blue pine and rhododendron forests and via the majestic Chele-la Pass to the stunning landscape of Haa
• Pay obeisance at the Memorial Chorten at Thimpu as well as offer prayers to the largest statue in the country of the Buddha, at Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Point)
• Comfortable accommodation at the three locations of Thimpu, Punakha and Paro and a well-crafted itinerary that brings Bhutan alive to you

Even if you are not Pharrell Williams, we are sure you would like to be happy. Click below to know more about how The Wanderers can make you happy by taking you to the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan!

Simply contact us at the following coordinates.

Sharad: 8291445737

Email Id: sharad@thewanderers.co.in

Check out our latest group tour on Bhutan 

An Insiders View on Taupo, New Zealand

By Tim Taylor


Taupo, a town near the centre of New Zealand’s North Island, is distinguished by its lakefront setting and outdoor sports ranging from fishing to jet-boating. The vast waters of Lake Taupo, a volcanic caldera, drain into the Huka Falls, dramatic, crystal-blue cascades reachable by hiking and biking trails. Surrounding Taupo are hot springs like those filling the Craters of the Moon reserve. The major local attractions here include trout fishing, skiing, and geothermal parks.

Little-known fact/trivia that everyone should know about when travelling to the Taupo Region NZ/ or a region you call home?

  The town of Taupo sits at the edge of Australasia’s largest lake. Lake Taupo in only a Crater lake and is the result of the world’s largest volcanic eruption. It is 25,000 years old and of the same size as Singapore.

What is a must buy when in Taupo?

Lava Glass Art

One thing to definitely pack when travelling to Taupo?

 A good pair of sturdy shoes, appropriate clothing, a camera, charger and you are good to go!

One activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss?

River Jet Trip

Where should anyone, travelling to this region, definitely get their picture taken.

A picture by a Maori Marae

Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?

Taupo Lookout or down Waimangu Valley


The best place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?

Clear of surroundings

The most romantic place to take a special someone to.

Rotorua Governments Gardens

One place only the locals would know.

Rainbow Mountain

The best place to have local food?

A Marae is a good place to have local food.


 Your favourite local dish and drink that you would recommend.

My personal favourite is NZ Lamb and NZ White wine.

 What is your advice to someone travelling to Taupo for the first-time?

We believe in punctuality, So please be on time.

How would you describe Taupo in a sentence?

Taupo is compact, clean and a very welcoming town.

   Tim Taylor,
Taylor’s Tours.

Check out our latest package on New Zealand 

An Insiders View on Iceland

By Renato Gruenenfelder

Iceland, a Nordic island country in the North Atlantic, is defined by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields. Massive glaciers are protected in Vatnajökull and Snæfellsjökull national parks. Icelandic culture is founded upon the nation’s Scandinavian heritage. Most Icelanders are descendants of Norse and Gaelic settlers. The country’s cultural heritage includes traditional Icelandic cuisine, Icelandic literature, and medieval sagas. Iceland has the smallest population of any NATO member and is the only one with no standing army, with a lightly armed coast guard in charge of defence.

One little-known fact/trivia that everyone should know when travelling to Iceland?

Iceland is a beautiful country with a unique geography and is cited to be abundant in culture and nature.

Things to buy when one is in Iceland?

Woollen goods (sweater, socks, hats, gloves, scarfs), Blue Lagoon beauty products, Icelandic chocolate, Fish products, Photobooks, Lava-Ceramic & jewellery, Icelandic vodka, Brennivín schnapps.

Any advice for first-time travellers?

Prepare for unpredictable weather – don’t underestimate distances – plan journey according to available daylight (big difference between summer and winter)

Things to pack before travelling to Iceland?

Warm clothes which are waterproof and windproof & a sturdy pair of shoes.

Any activity one mustn’t miss out when they are in Iceland?

Watch out for Midnight sun or Northern lights, walking on a Glacier, Whale watching, Blue Lagoon, Icelandic horses, Boat trip on Glacial lagoon between icebergs.

 What are the best places to catch up for a drink?

Visit places like Bjorgardurinn at Fosshotel and Íslenski Barinn, these places are the best to catch up with the locals.

The best place to have local food?

There are many places which serve authentic local food such as:
Fiskmaradurinn – The Fish Market
Seafood buffet at Restaurant Reykjavik
Lava Restaurant at Blue Lagoon
Laekjarbrekka Restaurant in Reykjavik


What are the local delicacies which one must try when in Iceland?

One must definitely try the Slow roasted lamb, Hákarl, hotdogs, Icelandic Fish , local lamb soup and Icelandic Ice cream.

The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about?

Don’t complain about prices!

Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?

Everywhere! Iceland is a very picturesque country.

The most romantic place to take a special someone?

You can visit The chapel and “Into the glacier” which are said to be some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

 Any local festivals you feel travellers should come and see?

One must visit Iceland during the Airwaves Music Festival, Reykjavik’s Art Festival and Culture Night, Secret Solstice Music Festival to experience the true Art and Culture of Iceland.

Which is the best time to go see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights appear from September until April – but February to March, and September to October – particularly around the equinoxes are the best months to see them. 


Is there any particular month you would not recommend travel to Iceland and why?

Travelling from late November to January, Iceland seriously lack in daylight which can be frustrating for photographers and outdoor adventurers, But that won’t be an issue for aurora seekers.

Can you describe Iceland in one sentence

Iceland is like no other place on earth.

Renato Gruenenfelder, General Manager, GJ Travel Iceland
From Reykjavik, Iceland, age 51.

Check out our latest young explorers family self drive vacation package on Iceland.

An Insiders View on Dubrovnik,Croatia

By Katija Calis

Dubrovnik is a city in southern Croatia fronting the Adriatic Sea. It’s known for its distinctive Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century. Its well-preserved buildings range from baroque St. Blaise Church to Renaissance Sponza Palace and Gothic Rector’s Palace, now a history museum. Paved with limestone, the pedestrianized Stradun (or Placa) is lined with shops and restaurants. For many visitors Dubrovnik is King’s Landing, capital of Westeros (From HBO’s hit show Game of Thrones).

One little-known fact/trivia that everyone should know when travelling to Dubrovnik?

Visit Dubrovnik in winter time; Dubrovnik is mostly known as a summer destination, but Winter has a lot to offer!

 What is a must buy when in Dubrovnik?

You must buy the caramelized almonds & candied orange peel.

One takeaway after a visit to this region?

Filigree silver, gold or coral jewellery

What is your advice to first-time travellers?

Don’t miss the City Walls

Things  to pack when travelling to Croatia?

Sunglasses & hat are essentials to carry when travelling to Croatia.

One activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss?

You must go kayaking around city walls


The most romantic place to take a special someone to?

Visit the Porporela (pier Dubrovnik’s Old Harbour)

Where should anyone, travelling to this region, definitely get their picture taken?

One must take pictures from the top of Minceta fortress (City walls) / Banje Beach / Upper Cable Car station

The best place to have local food?

Konoba Tabak  is a good place to try out authentic local food.

Your favourite local dish and drink that you would recommend our readers?

Try out Lamb prepared under the iron bell; fresh oysters, “sporki makaruli” (a dish made of meat and pasta)

The best pub and best places to catch up for a drink?

La Bodega, Belfast Irish pub, Levanat Bar are some of the local pubs and places you must visit.

One place only the locals would know?

Open air cinema Jadran

Is there any particular month you would not recommend travel to this region and what would that reason be?

July / August as the temperatures are too high and it’s overcrowded

A local festival you feel more travellers should come and see.

Dubrovnik Summer Festival (10th July – 25th August); Winter Festival (December – January), St Blasius Festivity (3rd February)

Which is the best place to get a panoramic photo?

On the top of Mount Srdj, upper Cable Car station, overlooking the Old Town of Dubrovnik

The best place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?

Buza bar, seaside of the city walls

The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about Dubrovnik

There are plenty of small villages nearby that you should visit: do the road trip in the northern part of Dubrovnik (Orasac, Gromaca, Majkovi) and sample the real Dubrovnik’s life since it’s not all about the city walls.

How would you describe Dubrovnik in one sentence?

In one sentence, Dubrovnik is breath taking!

Check out our latest package on France

My Trans-Siberian Rail Journey

By Uma Iyer

“I took the route from Mongolia to Moscow and every place I stayed over or ‘chugged’ along was stunning”.

A once in a lifetime experience –an understatement for one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the world and I travelled through ‘The Wanderers’ with the wonderful assistance of Farzana, who helped plan the itinerary for me and guided me with all important information.

    

 

 

To begin with, it is how meticulously it is planned and also how perfect the entire rail experience was for me – from the comfortable first class cabin to the clean rest rooms, the endless supply of hot water (to make chai or have cuppa noodles), the kind and caring cabin attendant of our coach – all essential to make a rail journey unforgettable for the right reasons!!

As I traversed on from country to country and city to city – it was like leaving a part of yourself there. The vast plains of Mongolia to the beautiful fall colors of Siberia and not to forget the six different time zones that one crosses in a span of 16 days !! That’s when it hits you – how massive a country Russia is.  For me the most beautiful sights were the fall colors – a sight to die for and Lake Baikal. Of course, the usual sights of the Kremlin, Red Square – steeped in history, evoked many memories of Leon Uris’s books, which I had read as a child.

Last but not the least, the famous Moscow Metro – not just a place which transports people from one place to another, but also carries you back in Russian history and every station is a colorful and grand link to the past.

Even though literally that journey came to an end, it is far from over for me. When you lose your soul to such a beautiful experience, the part that stays back with you – always keeps searching for the part that’s been left behind.

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7 Reasons why you should pack your bags for Copenhagen right away

By Ayushi Shah 

With its exquisite gastronomy, impeccable architecture and charming canals – it doesn’t matter whether you are a romantic at heart, a foodie, a history buff or an explorer – the Danish capital has surprises in store for every visitor. Team Wanderers brings to you the top seven reasons to head to this stunning city.

Bicycle tours 

The Danes are proud of their eco-friendly live approach. Perhaps, this is why cycles have assimilated themselves into the city, becoming a part of the landscape itself. After all, 62 percent of Copenhageners use their bike for the daily commute. One of the best ways to see the city, hop on to witness the city’s main attractions including Europe’s oldest functioning observatory in Europe – The Round Tower, The Danish Parliament – Folketing, and the internet famous hippie town ‘Christiana Freetown’.

Gastronomy

With its world-class dining scene, it is no surprise that Copenhagen is home to many Michelin-star restaurants including Noma, which serves delicious Nordic food under the guidance of world-renowned chef Rene Redzepi. For those of you who’d like to get a taste of the local flavor, head to Refshaleøen – the popular street food neighborhood tucked with hidden cafes, bars and eateries.

Architecture

The design, décor and architecture of the city have drawn accolades from across the globe. With its peculiar brick buildings, the lanes of Copenhagen are a visual delight. When in the city, one must visit the Tivoli Gardens, a frequently visited amusement park and pleasure garden that is home to rides, games, musicals, ballet, and major concerts. Not to be missed are the picture-perfect Helsignor Castle, the Frederiksborg Castle, and the Amalienborg Palace, the official city residence of Queen Margrethe II and the Danish royal family.

Canals

The picturesque city’s charm is best witnessed by sailing down its canals where you can choose between an array of options including a canal tour boat, a solar energy-driven boat, a kayak and a romantic gondola. Feeling adventurous? You can catch one of the daily boats that depart from the Nyhavn harbour to visit the 100-year-old man-made island and fortress, Flakfortet, in the Sound. The fort, which was built as a part of the city’s defence system hosts a number of activities today, including treasure hunts, ghost hunts and mini-gold – ensuring a fun with family and friends.

Fashion

Whether it’s stylish boutiques you’re on a lookout for or high-end designer stores – the city that has carved its name on Europe’s fashion map will not disappoint you. After all, nothing lesser can be expected from the country that is home to the globally renowned Henrik Vibskov. Choose between Magasin Du Nord, one of the largest shopping malls in Copenhagen, and Veras market, a flea market set under Bispeengbuen Bridges. Moreover, if you’re looking for a great deal and don’t mind a few hours rummaging through piles, head to one of the city’s second-hand stores where you can find luxury vintage wear from across the world. A few options we’d recommend are Time’s Up, Episode and Prag.

Carlsberg District

Located in Vesterbro, this major tourist attraction is home to the world-famous Danish brewery of Carlsberg beer. While they have special events throughout the year, Summers’ steal the show with ‘Carlsberg Fridays’ – an informal night of music, barbeque and ice-cold tap beer. Not a beer-person? Hop on to one of the horse carriages nearby for a tour of the Carlsberg district to catch a glimpse of the iconic buildings that have graced the area for more than a hundred years.

The art of Danish Hygge

A visit to Copenhagen is mandatory to experience the widely acclaimed concept of ‘hygge’ (pronounced as “hoo-gah”). Often attributed as the reason behind Denmark being considered as one of the happiest countries in the world -it means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. Happiness can’t be bought, but can sure be learnt from the Danes.

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