tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69420874915140273882024-03-13T23:03:06.203-07:00Travel Guide 201BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-63270299069589236002017-03-15T06:25:00.000-07:002017-05-28T23:52:22.453-07:00Best Way to Exchange Money<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Traveling to a foreign country and not quite sure how to best exchange your money? Here's the how to guide of best ways to exchange money into foreign currencies. I've listed below the best ways to exchange your money in a ranked order. Unfortunately, sometimes you may not have much choice how to exchange currencies, but if you plan ahead, you can save a lot of money.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ol style="text-align: left;">
<li><b><u>Currency Fair</u> </b>- This is hands down the best site for exchanging money outside of being an actual trader as long as your account you are transferring from is not a US or Canadian bank account. Currency Fair allows you to pick your own exchange rate and has under a .5% fee from the mid-market exchange rate, which is the optimal rate. You will also pay about a 3 Euro fee to transfer out, but overall this will save you the most money. <a href="https://www.currencyfair.com/?channel=R36S71" target="_blank">You can also click this link here and we'll both be credited with 30 euros and a free transfer out when you make a transfer of 400 euros.</a></li>
<li><b><u>Transfer Wise</u></b> - This one is probably the best online exchange for exchanging money from USD or CAD because it hosts a market in the US so you don't get charged wire fees (Oops not actually true, once again you get charged when transferring from a foreign currency back to the US). The optimal exchange rate is always .5% below the mid-market rate, so for big exchanges, Currency Fair is better, but all in all, this is a great tool and there are no fees to transfer in and out, just the flat .5% rate to exchange. (Also not exactly true, you can choose your own exchange rate with transferwise as well). <a href="https://transferwise.com/u/brysons" target="_blank">Click here and we both get 50 Pounds and a free exchange when you sign up and transfer 300 euros worth.</a></li>
<li><b><u>No fee credit cards or banks</u></b> - Some credit cards and banks advertise that they don't charge any fees for exchanges, but all banks charge exchange fees. For example, I have a US credit card that "doesn't" charge any fees, but after doing the math, I discovered that they were charging me a flat fee of 1.4-2% below the optimal mid-market exchange rate. Which means that I was actually losing quite a lot per transaction. My Swiss bank claimed to do the same, instead claiming that they would just charge a .30 Euro fee to transfer from Francs to Euros, but in reality they were charging me the .30 + a flat exchange rate fee of 1.5-3%. Such fees may not seem like much, but they add up over a life of exchanging</li>
<li><b><u>Withdrawing from a bank with a fee</u> - </b>Most banks will tell you up front that they charge a certain percent to use a card transaction for example one of my banks has a fee of 3% per transaction fee in a foreign currency + the poor exchange rate of the bank. They usually also have another sort of transaction fee for withdrawing from an ATM, mine in this case would charge a fee of $5 per ATM withdrawal in a foreign currency + the poor exchange rate. Moral of the story, if you can avoid using these banks for foreign currency transactions, that would be best, but if you have no other choice, plan ahead and withdraw most of your money at the beginning of your trip at one ATM. Of course, this creates a problem with thieves, so make sure not to keep it all in one place.</li>
<li><b><u>Cash Exchange</u> - </b>This should be your last resort in country. If you have some of your native currency and you want to exchange it there, go ahead, but expect to lose out on 10-20% of what the optimal exchange rate really is. You can get a better exchange rate with these places if you exchange more money, but basically, cash exchanges are for drug dealers and mafia bosses.</li>
<li><b><u>Traveler's Checks</u> - </b>Traveler's checks can be another last ditch option, but if you're already planning far enough ahead to be able to get them, you'll find they're not super useful. They aren't widely accepted anymore, and they don't get great exchange rates. But they can be somewhat useful if there's a high theft rate in the country you're going.</li>
</ol>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>, or my <a href="http://www.writingbs.com/" target="_blank">Books, Short Stories, and Articles at Writing BS</a></span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-71441576135114545242017-01-09T10:36:00.001-08:002017-01-09T10:36:28.948-08:00What's so different about the Swiss?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hh3irtq76i8/WHPX4erfS2I/AAAAAAAAEPY/rPaBeYfG-04BS3vS14WT0otHiSLv5xZXwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hh3irtq76i8/WHPX4erfS2I/AAAAAAAAEPY/rPaBeYfG-04BS3vS14WT0otHiSLv5xZXwCLcB/s640/IMG_5893.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Switzerland. The name conjours visions of grand mountains and flowing rivers of chocolate. A true paradise, but what about the inhabitants of paradise? Voltaire imagined the inhabitants of the great city of gold in his eloquent Candide. His imaginary inhabitants looked at gold as worth nothing more than rocks, but what about the Swiss? Are the big mountains really just rocks? What about their culture, politics, and beliefs? Just what makes someone Swiss?<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Paradoxical</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Probably the greatest way to describe Switzerland and what makes it so different is that it is a paradoxical world. It's a world that is at once united and as disjointed as any weak or strong state. A world of opportunities and a blatant lack thereof. A rich state that produces very little, and a land of peace populated by warriors.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Peace</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is one of the most interesting aspects of Switzerland. Since the world wars, the inhabitants consider Switzerland to be a beacon of peace to the world. It is home to various organizations built to maintain the peace. From the Red Cross to the UN, Switzerland is supposed to be the land of peace. They even have an entire week in Geneva dedicated to the fundamentals of peace. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Historically, however, this is just not the case. From the earliest accounts of the Swiss by Caesar, the Swiss were anything but peaceful. Caesar's own account states that the Swiss were bored (I'm not joking) of fighting each other in their mountain surrounded homeland, so they left to Gaul to fight new battles.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Eventually the prowess of Swiss fighters became so renowned that the popes used them specifically for their own security forces in the Vatican. In fact, you can still find the Swiss guard protecting the Vatican. As of the 16th century, however, the Swiss were no longer the pure Catholics they had once been.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Zwingli appeared on the scene, preaching a Catholic reformation that eventually led a protestant revolution throughout many cantons in Switzerland. The Swiss fought many bloody battles, which the Catholics eventually won, but they were unable to ever completely squash Protestantism. Eventually they gave up, and allowed cantons the freedom to choose their religion - Protestant or Catholic. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finally the world wars arrived, and Switzerland became one of the first "neutral" countries. This is a little misleading, however, as the Swiss made a literal killing off of each world war. They became the world's bankers, and a safe haven for rich outcasts both before and after the war. But most importantly Switzerland stayed out of the wars because of the huge diversity in their population and state system. With 1/3 German, 1/3 Italian, and 1/3 French, it is very difficult to join any wars where all three fight each other. Of course, that doesn't mean that all of them sat out the fighting either.<br />
<br />
Culture<br />
<br />
This is another large paradox in Switzerland. Because it's long been a tax haven for the wealthy, the entire country is built to extort the wealthy. Everything is much more expensive because the tax system brings little money from the in and out flows of hidden cash. This rich system then pays for much of the living in the country, so the country, even though it probably produces less than Greece, ends up being much wealthier. The end result is this feeling that many of the Swiss just don't relate to the real world. Can you blame them? They're born into a rich world of possibilities where the minimum wage is a desirable salary, and where there are few political decisions to be made because the cantons opinions are so disparate that changes are much more difficult than they're worth.<br />
<br />
The bottom line then is this head in the clouds effect on the population. They want to help others, but they seriously misunderstand that their prosperity is reliant upon poverty of other nations. Besides the well documented use of the Swiss banking system to hide cash and avoid taxes, there's the glorious Swiss chocolate, which I absolutely love (and you can check out some great <a href="http://www.alpsfoodtours.com/" target="_blank">Swiss chocolate food tours here</a>), but is one of the most condemned industries for extraction of natural resources.<br />
<br />
Geography<br />
<br />
Probably the last thing to really create the Swiss psychy is the geography. Beautiful mountains surrounded by big lakes really make Switzerland into a magical world. It's no wonder then that the Swiss have this psychy that the world is great, when it's easy to go do the <a href="http://www.tour-du-montblanc.com/" target="_blank">Tour du Mont Blanc</a>, or <a href="http://www.jungfrauhiking.com/" target="_blank">hike the Jungfrau</a>, or take in the sites of the <a href="http://www.swissrailtours.com/" target="_blank">Swiss Rail</a>, or <a href="http://www.dolomiteshikingtours.com/" target="_blank">hike the Dolomites</a>. In the end, come to Switzerland, and you'll probably leave the same way. A little dazed, and a little unsure of why all the world isn't that way.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-3925923337892263292016-11-16T08:10:00.001-08:002016-11-16T08:10:34.760-08:00Driving in Europe - Everything you need to know.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tIkKo7Uv8XE/WCyEzmyNBbI/AAAAAAAAELs/kw5I3hdhMZUe6f2RXv9ZgDotC987HHvrACLcB/s1600/drivinginEurope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tIkKo7Uv8XE/WCyEzmyNBbI/AAAAAAAAELs/kw5I3hdhMZUe6f2RXv9ZgDotC987HHvrACLcB/s1600/drivinginEurope.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Planning a trip to Europe and just not quite confident enough in your abilities to rent a car? Here is everything you need to know about renting a car in Europe to prepare you for what awaits you on Europe's roads.<br />
<br />
Just as a personal aside. I have driven almost everywhere in Europe, with some caveats. I have never driven into the Balkans or towards Greece. I have also never driven in the Baltics and only very briefly in Poland, so if you are planning a trip to those regions, keep in mind that if they are an EU country, they are going to have similar laws with some minor exceptions.<br />
<br />
Let's get started. I'm breaking this up into two sections. The basics and then country specific advice.<br />
<b><i><u><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">The basics</span></u></i></b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Renting a car, what to expect</b></span><br />
<br />
The first step and probably the most terrifying idea is actually renting a car. This is usually a little daunting because you have to find the rental car place at the airport, and then you'll be scared that you won't understand the terms and conditions when you rent the car, or they'll try to add some extra charges. Now this may happen, so make sure to read all of the conditions beforehand. Most airports will charge a location fee and a airport pick up fee, and then they may try to add a cleaning or fuel charge when you drop it off. You can avoid the last two charges by cleaning the car yourself and by signing to fill up the car before you drop it off.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, expect a long, contracted battle to rent your car. First of all, rental car places will take forever for you to find in just about any airport. People will always give you really bad directions on how to get to the place, and oftentimes, you'll get there only to find out that you went to the wrong location. So be prepared for a lot of walking, and get a luggage cart if you have the chance. Then be prepared for a looooong wait in line before you even get to the right counter. One way to avoid this is to become a premium member (most times it's free) before you get to the counter. But you'll still have to wait awhile, so don't count on renting a car just before a very important meeting when you land at the airport.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Toll Roads vs. normal roads</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
This is a very tricky part about driving around in Europe. Depending on the country you're in, you may have free highways or paid highways. Keep in mind that just because a highway doesn't have toll booths, it doesn't mean that you don't have to pay to use it. For these that do not have toll booths, you usually need to buy what's called a vignette, or a little tag that will allow you to drive on the roads for a year. This is usually a very cheap and good option, but make sure you get one because the fine for not having one is quite steep.<br />
<br />
The other important thing to keep in mind about the difference between toll roads and normal roads is that normal roads are usually tiny and are very difficult routes. For example, I remember driving for the first time in the Italian Alps, and we were driving high in the mountains on this tiny mountain road, and my friend and I had been doing this for hours and were oh so tired, and we looked down the mountain and there going straight through the valley like a great boa constrictor was the Italian toll road, which we were just too poor to use.<br />
<br />
This is more the case, however, when driving in the mountains, most normal roads are actually quite fine, and while they appear small to us as Americans, they are actually quite good roads once you get used to them with your smaller car.<br />
<br />
Also, toll roads are usually the most handy place to go to find a gas station late at night. Many gas stations will reject American credit cards, and the only way to get gas is to stop at a 24/7 station, which are quite realistically only found on the highways.<br />
<br />
Another tip is to have a gps handy if you plan on avoiding tolls. Most cars that you rent now will have one built in, but if they don't and you didn't bring one, you better put some data on your phone quick.<br />
<br />
Finally, toll roads and highways in Europe avoid almost everything you'd want to see. If you want to see things on your drive take the normal roads, you'll miss it all on a toll road.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Driving in cities</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Cities can be one of the funnest and also craziest experience as an American. The huge roundabounts of Europe can be overwhelming when you first use them, but you'll get used to them and how to use them. Remember to use your blinker if you're taking a left or right exit, and if there are two lanes stay in the right lane if you're planning to exit at the first exit, or if you plan on going straight or exiting at the third exit, hop into the left lane as you enter the roundabout.<br />
<br />
Cities can also be downright terrifying because of their size. If you are entering an ancient city I'll just say that you're probably best served by just finding a parking spot on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport from there. Of course, this is only for those small tiny cities that have streets that were built by the Romans, for the Romans. Beware of those. You find these most often in Spain or Italy. France and other countries have them, but usually has built a road to it, and then provided parking at a reasonable space near the city center.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Parking</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Be prepared to pay a lot to park in Europe. This isn't always the case, but while there are free spaces, they are usually limited to use for an hour and a half, or you are allowed to park in street parking from 7 or 8pm to 7 or 8am. The further you get from the city center, the more likely street parking will be free as well. But if you plan on being a tourist and you don't want to walk a long way, you may want to pay for a day parking pass at one of the nice tourist lots near the city centers.<br />
<br />
Additionally, some countries like Switzerland and Germany have a little blue meter that you put in your car to show when you arrived at a parking spot. If you don't have that they can automatically ticket you even if you are parked in a free for 90 minutes parking place. These are also usually color coded. For example, in Switzerland they're blue spaces, whereas white spaces are free.<br />
<br />
Finally, just remember to hide everything when you park. Usually hatchbacks will have something to hide what you put in your trunk, and you should make sure to put everything there when you leave. Make sure that no one is watching you put stuff in your trunk either. Rule of thumb is if you feel uncomfortable with someone watching you where you parked, park somewhere else!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Radars & Speeding</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Radars are one of my most hated and liked things about Europe. I hate them because sometimes no matter how you avoid them, they'll get you. But they're also nice because they have made it so that police are not as agressive on the roads. In fact, it is rare to see someone pulled over by police, but keep in mind, that it does happen!<br />
<br />
So radars. Basically in the EU, countries are required to put up a sign before you see a radar. So you can usually see them if you're watching well enough beforehand. They also have alerts for them on gps units, these will usually alert you for a zone of when you can possibly see a radar. For whatever reason, sometimes it will say there is a radar and there won't be one.<br />
<br />
There is a lot of debate on how fast you have to be going to get a ticket. Usually I think it's around 3 to 4 km/hr faster than the limit because radars supposedly have a 3 km/hr tolerance zone just in case it makes an error in speed. Non-EU countries will still have radars, but they aren't governed by the same laws for letting you know beforehand, so for example, Switzerland, here it depends on your canton, doesn't have to alert you beforehand, you can just expect to find radars on Swiss roads. Yeah that sucks.haha.<br />
<br />
When you do get a ticket, it could take two or more months to get it in the mail. If it's your car, you can go to the post office and pay it, if you are renting the car, however, the rental company will pay for it and then charge you 20 to 30 euros extra for a service fee. (Remember to thank them for going out of their way to send a check...)<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Fueling and costs</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Fuel in Europe is also much more expensive than in the US, although recently with the drop in oil prices, it isn't nearly as bad. In France, currently you can expect to pay about $4.07/gal for gas. Diesel is cheaper than unleaded, and most cars will get around 50 miles to the gallon. Yes that's pretty cool.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><i>Country Specifics</i></u></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Italy</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
If you're going to drive in Italy, probably forget everything you've learned about driving up til now. Italian roads in the big cities often get rid of lines altogether. You may think it's just a one way street, where Italians will turn it into 4 lanes. They'll also come whizzing by you and honk rather quickly, although not nearly as fast as in France. Italians also seem to have weird gently rules of how to interact with people turning into ongoing traffic. It isn't surprising to see a brave Italian inch out into oncoming traffic and stop both sides to turn.<br />
<br />
Also keep in mind that Italians have a lot of moped deaths every year, and once you see how crazy they are on their rather unprotected beasts, you won't really wonder why.<br />
<br />
Finally, Italian toll roads are expensive, but they're much better than France. If you find yourself getting annoyed with Italian country roads, take the toll road, it won't hurt your pocket nearly as much as you'd think.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Spain</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Spain has free highways and good roads, you can avoid the tolls almost altogether in Spain, and you should. It's quite easy. The green signs mean non-toll, the blue mean toll. Just skip the ones where you need to pay.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>France</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Driving in France? Be prepared to be annoyed. Not only does every road lead to a toll road, but they annoy the crap out of you with roundabouts on the way to those toll roads. And tolls are ridiculously expensive!<br />
<br />
All isn't lost, however, Brittany, is unique in that there are no toll roads!<br />
<br />
One last piece of advice in driving France is that they have a special sign in small towns giving right of way to people entering main roads and turning right. Yes, it sounds preposterous and like it will cause a lot of accidents right? Well, it is a way to get you to slow down.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Switzerland</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
More annoying than French roads? Swiss roads!<br />
<br />
Here there is just a vignette, no tolls, but since you can't tell where the radars are you have to go their ridiculously slow speeds. They also have some of the fastest changing green lights I've ever seen. Oh and let's not mention the towns like Zermatt that are "car free." What that really means is they have cars, but they're going to put a big tax to have cars in those towns too.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Germany</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Germany is awesome. Use the autobahn. Drive as fast as you want. Just remember to slow down around cities, where they do have speed limits.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Czech Republic, Slovakia, Austria & Hungary</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Get a vignette<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Norway</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Watch out for the radars in tunnels. Not only do they measure speed, but they also measure speed between two radars! So if you slow down and then speed up and then slow down, they'll get you too.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Russia</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
Ummmmm....Just don't rent a car. If you must, then remember that the big cities have horrendous traffic, and out on the highways it's like driving on wagon ruts, so just stay on top of the ruts.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>, or my <a href="http://www.writingbs.com/" target="_blank">Books, Short Stories, and Articles at Writing BS</a></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<br /></div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-55693545491752330352016-07-30T09:05:00.001-07:002016-07-30T09:05:39.095-07:00blank<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-37016697769929397002016-07-30T08:43:00.003-07:002016-07-30T09:05:27.720-07:00August 2016 - Magazine Download<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>
Thank you for your purchase! You can download the PDF file of the magazine by clicking on the link below.</b></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BwxEpWAXpQICSkJoM21qQ3E1S3c/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>August - 2016 Issue - West/Central Europe</i></span></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-10084184675208999152016-07-22T12:08:00.001-07:002016-08-04T09:24:10.033-07:00Top 20 European Destinations<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i-3PkUew11U/V6NsIdQUYvI/AAAAAAAAD4M/xOLUjaLfJBYxt4v2yg9lFKER4d4dk98ewCLcB/s1600/top%2B20.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i-3PkUew11U/V6NsIdQUYvI/AAAAAAAAD4M/xOLUjaLfJBYxt4v2yg9lFKER4d4dk98ewCLcB/s1600/top%2B20.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Planning your trip to Europe soon? Make sure to add one or two of our top destinations to the list.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Lofoten-Norway</b></span><br />
Coming in at the top pick, it's hard to argue with this amazing wonderland. An island backdrop with towering mountains and green valleys in the summer and white valleys in the winter make this a truly unforgettable destination. It truly is Europe's New Zealand and home to some of the best mountaintop views in the world. That being said, while New Zealand has good winter sports, Lofoten is a great destination for some off-piste skiing. Additionally, the island is placed at the southern end of the Arctic Circle, so come during the winter for almost guaranteed sightings of the Northern Lights. What's more, this region is rich in cultural history and home to the oldest surviving Viking Lodge. Finally, there are many beautiful sea side lodges for all your relaxation needs.<br />
<br />
The one downside to Lofoten, but also what makes it top the list, is its accessibility. It is in the Arctic Circle, meaning it's a far drive from Central Norway, and tickets are expensive to fly there. This is also the huge plus side to the island, limiting tourists, and keeping the paradise - peaceful and quiet.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uvErC4uzmOw/V0sEJXzpAyI/AAAAAAAACbw/Qg26xz9enTYN19ew_6XF0rvEoNLXJlswQCKgB/s1600/IMG_6434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uvErC4uzmOw/V0sEJXzpAyI/AAAAAAAACbw/Qg26xz9enTYN19ew_6XF0rvEoNLXJlswQCKgB/s640/IMG_6434.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2. Lauterbrunnen - Switzerland</b></span><br />
You might be wondering how Lauterbrunnen could ever take second place in rankings. This beautiful village nestled in a picturesque valley behind towering waterfalls has the touch of paradise. Stay in the village, take a cable car to the top of the nearby mountains or hike and ski all you want during the winter or summer months, or just plain relax in your beautiful hotel and drink in the beauty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eThsiNrGvS4/V5Ju0IeLaWI/AAAAAAAAD1A/buBPQjZ3TuMdFz-P0RzmUZXZ7nNRTQwZACLcB/s1600/Lauterbrunnen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eThsiNrGvS4/V5Ju0IeLaWI/AAAAAAAAD1A/buBPQjZ3TuMdFz-P0RzmUZXZ7nNRTQwZACLcB/s640/Lauterbrunnen.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3. Santorini - Greece</b></span><br />
Santorini comes next with its glittering white and blue topped island houses. Lay on the beach, walk the white walled city, or take a trip to nearby islands for fun in the sun or under the sun in this sea-lover's paradise. This beautiful island comes in at number 3 because of its readily accessibility by large cruise ships. Not only is this island almost inaccessible in small groups, but it is also not the only unique white-walled island in Greece. That being said, this is one of the most beautiful places you will ever have the opportunity to visit, and you won't regret spending your vacation here.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8iiJhNUYpJc/V5Ju3_JLz_I/AAAAAAAAD1E/nteUWY37qrMKIS_Gu2C879CQ1Mdpc6E3gCLcB/s1600/santorini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8iiJhNUYpJc/V5Ju3_JLz_I/AAAAAAAAD1E/nteUWY37qrMKIS_Gu2C879CQ1Mdpc6E3gCLcB/s640/santorini.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4. Tuscany - Italy</b></span><br />
One week in Tuscany will change your life. Maybe it's the air, or the combination of the air and the heat, the feel of beauty and stagnation, tightness and familiarity, ease and tranquility. Tuscany is truly a destination like no other in all of Europe. You don't just go to Tuscany to drink wine, and wander the long paths flanked by those famous Cypress trees, you go to drink and breathe in Tuscany. It really is the experience you have to experience.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9txS4PoqX-s/V5Ju8d2MTII/AAAAAAAAD1I/eabS6LzDnBoe-XxPC1au6kWzGajf2z-KwCLcB/s1600/tuscany.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9txS4PoqX-s/V5Ju8d2MTII/AAAAAAAAD1I/eabS6LzDnBoe-XxPC1au6kWzGajf2z-KwCLcB/s640/tuscany.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5. Hallstatt - Austria</b></span><br />
Ok, anyone who's been to Austria knows that the hills really are alive with the sound of music, but Hallstatt is special. Hidden deep in the alps, this mountainside village wakes at the side of a still calm lake, disturbed only by the soft paddling of swans around the harbor. Don't let the sleepy nature of the town fool you though. You can take a train to the top of the mountain above the city, or you can hike the old miner's trail there. You can also relax with a beautiful vista of the city on the nearby lakeside beach. Additionally, you can go kayaking and row around the bay, taking in the beauty of this tranquil piece of heaven.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iqBkIGHGV18/V08e0nvWiuI/AAAAAAAAClw/qP9KmkV0SU4BLvBEjPKNNDJSB5KWHS37wCKgB/s1600/IMG_3557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iqBkIGHGV18/V08e0nvWiuI/AAAAAAAAClw/qP9KmkV0SU4BLvBEjPKNNDJSB5KWHS37wCKgB/s640/IMG_3557.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6. The Running of the Bulls - Spain</b></span><br />
Sick of all those beautiful, quiet vacations? You may just have found the vacation for you. The great running of the bulls in Pamplona is one of the largest festivals in Spain. The small town transforms into one enormous party for a week on end, and then, the bulls run. Once a day, for a week, the celebration reigns supreme. Bulls are sacrificed, wine in spilt, what more could you want from a festival held in honor of a Catholic saint? Truly, the running is something to behold, experience, and unlike most festivals - actually take part in.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WFW39zUt5hk/V0dr6cKcKUI/AAAAAAAACWE/OkEvqlqwa7wlzNS5J8JVAaybYHlGns5ogCKgB/s1600/1053100_10100970375860969_1737098698_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WFW39zUt5hk/V0dr6cKcKUI/AAAAAAAACWE/OkEvqlqwa7wlzNS5J8JVAaybYHlGns5ogCKgB/s640/1053100_10100970375860969_1737098698_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7. Paris - France</b></span><br />
Topping the list of cities, it's hard to say anything bad about Paris. The food, the culture, the flavor of the city all play a part in making this city a top destination. Whether you're drinking tea in the Eiffel Tower's cafe, wandering the Louvre, or eating a crisp, savory Crepe in Montmartre, this city has a little bit of something for everyone, and perhaps most importantly, few cities really hold the romantic appeal of Paris.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R6uiBRgxMyk/V0jXRy9H4iI/AAAAAAAACYw/nWzrOKkKuAYIky-lKjpVmo-Q6O5K6IZ0gCKgB/s1600/IMG_9951_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R6uiBRgxMyk/V0jXRy9H4iI/AAAAAAAACYw/nWzrOKkKuAYIky-lKjpVmo-Q6O5K6IZ0gCKgB/s640/IMG_9951_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8. Venice - Italy</b></span><br />
Did I just say few cities hold the romantic appeal? Well Venice is one that definitely rivals Paris in all senses, but in very distinct ways. Venice outranks both Rome and Florence along with most other European cities in my book because it really is like entering another world. First of all, you take a boat ride to get anywhere in the city. Then you hop off and the streets, oh the streets! It's like a tiny jigsaw puzzle thrown haphazardly together, Is it an alley or a main street? It's both because it's Venice! And tucked in that alley is cute little restaurant after cute restaurant. But all that aside, why not take a beautiful gondola out for a ride as a professional opera singer serenades us on the next boat. Why not sip a coffee on San Marcos square as the sun peaks over the red tiled roofs? Truly Venice is a spectacle to experience for yourself.<br />
<br />
Also just a side note, in my book Venice outranks Paris, but thanks to the fact that on most European trips Venice becomes a detour, it ranks just a bit lower on this list.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_A48kja4Bc/V1CorBkYpuI/AAAAAAAACqM/5LkWu91V59k6s--oFEQlRoeJwhD7GjoDQCLcB/s1600/DSC05795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_A48kja4Bc/V1CorBkYpuI/AAAAAAAACqM/5LkWu91V59k6s--oFEQlRoeJwhD7GjoDQCLcB/s640/DSC05795.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9. Prague - Czech Republic</b></span><br />
Next on the list of top cities is Prague. In my book it outranks most European cities, and this is in fact most Europeans favorite city. You might wonder why, and here's the important thing to remember about Prague, everything is very very close in the old town. You can literally walk the old town in a day. The only other city I was able to do this was in Budapest, but trust me as a former collegiate athlete, walking the entirety of Budapest was torture. All other major European cities are ridiculously spread out, whereas Prague has everything close together with a castle on a mountain that can be seen from every vista. This means you really feel like you step back in time into a magical land as you wander the streets. You never really lose the feel that you're in Europe, a fairytale world, and that magical feeling - it really is unforgettable.<br />
<br />
Let's also not forget that Prague has many severely underrated art galleries, and in comparison for price - Prague wins hands down.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ayrp9ecZ94/V0CIc6n2H3I/AAAAAAAACF4/lvVqcU0kBOc2QT7vEoBLDoyeziJfsZNKwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ayrp9ecZ94/V0CIc6n2H3I/AAAAAAAACF4/lvVqcU0kBOc2QT7vEoBLDoyeziJfsZNKwCLcB/s640/IMG_1530.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10. Dubrovnik - Croatia</b></span><br />
Rounding out the list of top cities is the old walled city of Dubrovnik. The hot sun caressing your face as your feet slide into layers of thick sand really separate this city from any other in Europe. Not only is it a beautiful destination in itself, but its access to the beach, cliff jumping, and yachts really make this into one of the best destinations of all of Europe without just being a party destination like Ibiza, St. Tropez, or Monaco.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mmtZXiCOS-g/V5JvHgfJnnI/AAAAAAAAD1M/v-hAHhdi45Ego1wL1QjiPM3w51i3XDqmwCLcB/s1600/dubrovnik.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mmtZXiCOS-g/V5JvHgfJnnI/AAAAAAAAD1M/v-hAHhdi45Ego1wL1QjiPM3w51i3XDqmwCLcB/s640/dubrovnik.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>11. Geirangerfjord - Norway</b></span><br />
I don't think you really can go to Norway without seeing a fjord as many of the cities are located directly at the end of fjords, but not all fjords are created equally. One of the most famous is the Geirangerfjord with a to-die-for view, but the other two are no slouches either. Both Geirangerfjord and Naeroyfjord are UNESCO sites, and any questions why will be answered once you stand over the gaping expanse of blue, white, and green.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8fW7wycT94o/V0sEWxrd4JI/AAAAAAAACb0/qYpec3yzbpMN5Kgx9a_DBCpapfIfflsKwCKgB/s1600/DSC09072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8fW7wycT94o/V0sEWxrd4JI/AAAAAAAACb0/qYpec3yzbpMN5Kgx9a_DBCpapfIfflsKwCKgB/s640/DSC09072.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>12. Ring Road - Iceland</b></span><br />
You might think Iceland should come a little higher in this list, especially since the Ring Road takes you past blue icebergs, black sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, and even glimpses of the Northern Lights. But Iceland's location is the main reason for its low rating. Few decide to vacation just to Iceland, and so this destination really only makes sense if you can make it work as a stopover. That being said, this is one of the most diverse and just plain different places you will ever see in such a short time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PL-s568aN8Q/V5JgvfsoU0I/AAAAAAAAD0M/B_RwsXWfVlczoY9e-A-AwA-VrhhitAqCgCLcB/s1600/iceland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PL-s568aN8Q/V5JgvfsoU0I/AAAAAAAAD0M/B_RwsXWfVlczoY9e-A-AwA-VrhhitAqCgCLcB/s640/iceland.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "verdana"; font-size: 16px; font-style: italic; line-height: 30px;">Seljalandsfoss Waterfall</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>13. Santa Semana - Spain</b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you're Catholic, this holiday in Spain is no joke. The holy week leading up to Easter is one of the greatest times to visit Spain, many cities participate in the tradition, although Andalusia usually has more glamorous celebrations compared to solemn ones in Castile and Leon. The tradition is to take the different floats of Christ's last week and parade them through the town.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
These are typically brotherhoods that carry the icons wearing a hood called a capirote. The tradition began during the time of Counter Reformation in Europe and is a sight to see today.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XO5Li9OFouI/V5JRwaQOiWI/AAAAAAAADzs/4ifbe8k40DYMyNAmVHFHKtbO07OdnEfhgCKgB/s1600/Santa%2BSemana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="546" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XO5Li9OFouI/V5JRwaQOiWI/AAAAAAAADzs/4ifbe8k40DYMyNAmVHFHKtbO07OdnEfhgCKgB/s640/Santa%2BSemana.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>14. Oktoberfest - Germany</b></span><br />
One of the premier festivals in all of Europe. Oktoberfest draws quite the drinking crowd. Taking place in mid to late September this is the one and only place to be if you're in Europe during this time period. Munich is probably one of the premier destinations for Oktoberfest, but really just about anywhere in Germany will do.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>15. Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre - Italy</b></span><br />
The famous five cities. This region isn't the greatest for its food or its beaches, but these beautiful cities are all about the view. Not only is the trip to Cinque Terre unforgettable (And you'll really come to understand why no one before the modern era was really able to control the northern areas of Italy). From the rocky shores, to the thick forests and rolling hills, the five painted cities transport you to a new world.<br />
<br />
Much like the coastline of Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast is famous for its beautiful hilltop villages and lovely coast. But unlike Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast is a bustling hub of the relaxers and sun bathers that just want to relax by the seashore or anchored in some cove in a yacht. The Amalfi Coast has everything that Cinque Terre doesn't in terms of swimming, sandy beaches, and great food and wine. What it lacks, however, is the unique colorful charm of the five cities. It is also much closer to Rome, and therefore, much much more crowded.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-shWbw2Drf0M/V1Ci_DNL1uI/AAAAAAAACpQ/rMF4mlQmjEQq2wCIJ0PEGvlmDJdUAd4eQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-shWbw2Drf0M/V1Ci_DNL1uI/AAAAAAAACpQ/rMF4mlQmjEQq2wCIJ0PEGvlmDJdUAd4eQCLcB/s640/IMG_3861.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>16. Lavender Fields - France</b></span><br />
I don't think there is a more magical land than Provence in the summertime. You have the clear beaches of Asia just minutes away from lavender fields, the alps, and years of well-preserved history. But of all those things, the lavender fields really shine in this list.<br />
<br />
The best time to go is in mid to late July, but the fields can be somewhat unpredictable. They usually don't cut the fields until early August, however, so you are guaranteed some sightings if you make it before then although the lavender won't be quite as in bloom. They also start blooming in late June, so if you're around then it is a good time as well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gEYW2Ec8iKo/V0jW80cwxdI/AAAAAAAACYk/yJtq7ILpQ3QA7qM4xif5q46-MvVEnHIIwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5312.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gEYW2Ec8iKo/V0jW80cwxdI/AAAAAAAACYk/yJtq7ILpQ3QA7qM4xif5q46-MvVEnHIIwCLcB/s640/IMG_5312.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>17.Giant's Causeway - Ireland</b></span><br />
You might be wondering what a pile of rocks is doing on this list, but it's the uniqueness in this causeway that really sets it apart. It's hard to find a more interesting natural wonder. Stones that look as if they were cut by man's hands. You won't be disappointed in traveling here (unless it's raining). Additionally, the reason why this ranks on the list is because Ireland is very beautiful, but castles just don't quite stand out as much as this one of a kind causeway.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SnTQPKMxyEg/V5JlXVOPDYI/AAAAAAAAD0Y/J4OYjjGGMPgHYl47wCnJsveFCUzkZgwEQCLcB/s1600/giantscauseway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SnTQPKMxyEg/V5JlXVOPDYI/AAAAAAAAD0Y/J4OYjjGGMPgHYl47wCnJsveFCUzkZgwEQCLcB/s640/giantscauseway.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>18. Hagia Sophia - Turkey</b></span><br />
Few places really tell the tale of history like the Hagia Sophia. Standing in the now great museum, you can imagine the difficulty the Romans would have had in finishing the roof but somehow, complete it they did. This later became a massive mosque and has now been turned into a museum, where you can see the influences of past and future, and determine for yourself if Turkey belongs in the East or the West.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-20lwn8hhuuU/V5JmzJAM4gI/AAAAAAAAD0k/K7m5eO_qfqUPc5s6DxtZlYRkTORfA8CeACLcB/s1600/hagiasophia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-20lwn8hhuuU/V5JmzJAM4gI/AAAAAAAAD0k/K7m5eO_qfqUPc5s6DxtZlYRkTORfA8CeACLcB/s640/hagiasophia.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>19. Auschwitz - Poland</b></span><br />
Vacations can quickly turn into getaways and relaxing spots. I'll be the first to say good on you if you go on these, but these kind of vacations should not prevent you from visiting some of the sometimes harder historical sites of the past. One of the most prominent of these is the Nazi death camp of Auschwitz. There are a few other death camps that also rank on this list, but the visit to these is life altering. You see first hand, where they lived, where they starved, where they were burned alive. You see the harrowing photographs, what remains of their belongings, but then you walk where they walked, you stand where they stood. You realize you can never possibly fathom what happened there or what those prisoners went through, but for a moment, you feel linked, and that link hopefully changes your future and those around you. This ranks low on the list because it is a sober destination, but you will not regret making the detour here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--FmfzAKADzA/V5JpABCNBXI/AAAAAAAAD0w/REXhO6v3xB0NU0d8RdptOwkF_pCcaNxeACLcB/s1600/DSC05023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--FmfzAKADzA/V5JpABCNBXI/AAAAAAAAD0w/REXhO6v3xB0NU0d8RdptOwkF_pCcaNxeACLcB/s640/DSC05023.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>20. Stonehenge - UK</b></span><br />
It almost goes without saying that you should visit Stonehenge when you visit the UK, but what most people don't know is that there are many different Stonehenge's throughout the UK, some of which are both older and larger than the famous one bearing the name. Interestingly enough, most scholars believe that millions of years ago the UK was a sandy bottom of an ocean. As the waters, receded the sand dried out, became hard, and eventually cracked leaving stones that were easily found by early inhabitants to build the monoliths for whatever reasons they were built. These reasons are still unknown, but you can go and lend your voice to the speculation.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kvZC1AaI1ag/V1IS8LrhPLI/AAAAAAAACwQ/FneqKoR4VqkE_LuMN-OtOQSgttuZaAbFwCKgB/s1600/IMG_1174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kvZC1AaI1ag/V1IS8LrhPLI/AAAAAAAACwQ/FneqKoR4VqkE_LuMN-OtOQSgttuZaAbFwCKgB/s640/IMG_1174.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>, or my <a href="http://www.writingbs.com/" target="_blank">Books, Short Stories, and Articles at Writing BS</a></span></i></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-37076539229957318622016-07-21T14:38:00.000-07:002016-07-21T14:43:13.307-07:00Top 10 Things to See & Do in Germany<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mpfsWZZUmvc/V5Eemw107CI/AAAAAAAADxs/VvhnStS4Ue8ud6lDpQwjzodfwE9eWX6OQCLcB/s1600/top10germany.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Top 10 things to do in Germany" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mpfsWZZUmvc/V5Eemw107CI/AAAAAAAADxs/VvhnStS4Ue8ud6lDpQwjzodfwE9eWX6OQCLcB/s1600/top10germany.png" title="Top 10 things to do in Germany" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The great fatherland, the land of black forests, rolling hilltop castles and towering mountains that seem to flow with hops. If that's the land you're looking for, you came to the right place, and here are the top 10 in Germany.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.Drive the Autobahn</b></span><br />
This might not be the top on your list of things to do in Germany, but it really should be. Nothing quite says Germany engineering like driving a BMW on the sticky Autobahn, going as fast...well...as fast as you want. You might think that traveling around Europe it's just not worth getting a car because of things like tolls(ahem France) and windy roads (ahem Italy), but Germany will definitely make you rethink the traditional train ride, and quickly have you ditching your sleeper for the faster car you can find.<br />
<br />
Just a few quick tips if you do end up driving the Autobahn. First of all, if you're not driving ridiculously fast stay in the right lanes, basically only go into the left lane if you're quickly passing someone, or you are one of the awesome, insane maniacs driving 300km/hr. The second thing to keep in mind is that the Autobahn does at certain intervals have speed limits. These limits are only when you're going around cities, but keep a watchful eye for those speed signs and remember that a number with a red dash through it means the speed limit is ending. Finally, just keep in mind that going fast does take a toll on your car, your gas gauge will drop in a hurry, and if you aren't driving a sports car, you may not want to hit your top speed for extended periods of time, but hey, why not max it out at least once?haha. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5BcnsWDl2xU/V5E82AohDcI/AAAAAAAADy8/-u2Wxz7U9n0LJMq0Sxmr5tpycxJuRGxQQCLcB/s1600/DSC00616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ferrari" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5BcnsWDl2xU/V5E82AohDcI/AAAAAAAADy8/-u2Wxz7U9n0LJMq0Sxmr5tpycxJuRGxQQCLcB/s640/DSC00616.jpg" title="ferrari" width="396" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Visit a holocaust memorial</b></span><br />
Of course, there is the large memorial in Berlin, but Germany is home to many places where the holocaust happened, and it is a unique experience to visit one of these places that a museum just can't replace.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rOu0XuQfHI/V5EgqAcFITI/AAAAAAAADx8/zcFkrrV3-RUz1gsHLVXFgNN6bWIRxtFwwCLcB/s1600/DSC05023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Nazi Prison Camp" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rOu0XuQfHI/V5EgqAcFITI/AAAAAAAADx8/zcFkrrV3-RUz1gsHLVXFgNN6bWIRxtFwwCLcB/s640/DSC05023.JPG" title="Nazi Prison Camp" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Neuenschwanstein castle</b></span><br />
This is one of the most famous castles in the world. It is one of two that Disney decided to use to create a replica in their own castle. Surprisingly, this area is not just home to the one castle either. There are a few Hoffenstein castles in the area, each with its own flavor although Neuenschwanstein is the most famous and most visited. The castle is also complete with a museum that you can visit as well.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0NtFYTTN0_w/V5FAr-NISyI/AAAAAAAADzY/t9brLDkmKCgqSd4uhDWUHEn5iOU7Lx_QwCLcB/s1600/neuenschwanstein.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Neuenschwanstein Castle" border="0" height="478" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0NtFYTTN0_w/V5FAr-NISyI/AAAAAAAADzY/t9brLDkmKCgqSd4uhDWUHEn5iOU7Lx_QwCLcB/s640/neuenschwanstein.jpg" title="Neuenschwanstein Castle" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.Munich</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">Munich is not usually seen as a destination in itself, but just a launching point. That being said, Munich is rich with offerings for the careful traveler. Visit BMW's headquarters in the city. Walk one of the most ancient and historically rich old townes of Central Europe. Munich is also home to some of the largest festivities of Oktoberfest every year.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ySvpkEcIsX8/V5E923Gts1I/AAAAAAAADzE/3T1wfbveWwMpcezgKkXHafHftI_4Tx50QCLcB/s1600/munich.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Munich" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ySvpkEcIsX8/V5E923Gts1I/AAAAAAAADzE/3T1wfbveWwMpcezgKkXHafHftI_4Tx50QCLcB/s640/munich.png" title="Munich" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.Walk the Bastei Bridge</b></span><br />
The iconic Bastei rock formation may not appear in many of your top German searches, but this landmark, should definitely rank in the top places in Germany. The bridge, originally built in 1824 has been replaced with a new sandstone one built in 1851, and looks and feels like something out of Lord of the Rings. You can access this near Dresden or even from the Czech Republic if you're coming from the East.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wupnn2J6BqM/V5E6KJ1zROI/AAAAAAAADyw/NVrztl-Yzog2MlDC5UyJyc0KXdg3IGdSwCLcB/s1600/bastei.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bastei Bridge" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wupnn2J6BqM/V5E6KJ1zROI/AAAAAAAADyw/NVrztl-Yzog2MlDC5UyJyc0KXdg3IGdSwCLcB/s640/bastei.png" title="Bastei Bridge" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6.Eat a Frankfurter in Frankfurt</b></span><br />
Frankfurt is definitely a special European city. By all accounts, it looks completely modern with its large downtown and skyscrapers, but it's not quite what meets the eye. Head to the true center of the city and hidden behind the towering buildings lies the ancient part of Frankfurt, where you can eat some of the best and authentic Frankfurters around. And all for cheap!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0IzGYohQ2cw/V5EffD1KQpI/AAAAAAAADxw/DGDOSHwCt5s22C9G6tCjSAIVhJMInDQewCLcB/s1600/31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Frankfurt" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0IzGYohQ2cw/V5EffD1KQpI/AAAAAAAADxw/DGDOSHwCt5s22C9G6tCjSAIVhJMInDQewCLcB/s640/31.jpg" title="Frankfurt" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7.Drink way too much at Oktoberfest</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">I doubt I really need to harp on Oktoberfest that much, but if you're in Germany in mid to late September this is the one and only place to be.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8.See the ancient Capital of Aachen</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">This usually ranks pretty low on people's lists of things to see in Germany, but this is one of the true treasures of Europe. The ancient capital still houses the great cathedral built by Charlemagne. You can see the two-toned stones built in awe of the Moorish use in Cordoba. You can see where the throne sat and ow church and state had truly become infused under the rule of the great Charlemagne.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qGy8ObYtajM/V5E4Xes7cMI/AAAAAAAADyg/BFQCHyad6cIbAlFjmCw4obS5-s_HrIxXwCLcB/s1600/aachen.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Aachen" border="0" height="396" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qGy8ObYtajM/V5E4Xes7cMI/AAAAAAAADyg/BFQCHyad6cIbAlFjmCw4obS5-s_HrIxXwCLcB/s640/aachen.png" title="Aachen" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9.Wander beneath the Christmas lights of Cologne</b></span><br />
Christmas in Germany is spectacular, but there is a special glory and wonder in the French German regions at the border of the two countries. Drink some great Christmas wine or the non-alcoholic version for kids. Feel the crunch of fresh snow as you wander past hut after hut of traditional goods and breathe in the goodness of the season under the towering cathedral of Cologne.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KpSY-afhLAc/V5E_p1aTFwI/AAAAAAAADzQ/qnrNdrJXPKEhG0HP4f4IkOjxCSQKjVOXQCLcB/s1600/colognechristmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas Cologne" border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KpSY-afhLAc/V5E_p1aTFwI/AAAAAAAADzQ/qnrNdrJXPKEhG0HP4f4IkOjxCSQKjVOXQCLcB/s640/colognechristmas.jpg" title="Christmas Cologne" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10.Ski the Alps or have a hot tea in Garmisch Partenkirchen and the Zugspitze</b></span><br />
Welcome to the top of Germany. The Zugspitze is the tallest mountain in all of Germany and is accessible by a cable car to reach its near 3,000 m summit. This is also a famous ski town and a great place to spend the winter in the Alps. If you're there during the summer, you're out of luck for skiing, but you can still go to the top and have tea, or hit a golf course flanked by the massive mountains.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5wzgDhUrpqU/V5E2HHh8iiI/AAAAAAAADyQ/I67k5lH2BYA9UCaYwEVwJdK09Zwbotl-QCLcB/s1600/zugspitze.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Zugspitze" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5wzgDhUrpqU/V5E2HHh8iiI/AAAAAAAADyQ/I67k5lH2BYA9UCaYwEVwJdK09Zwbotl-QCLcB/s640/zugspitze.png" title="Zugspitze" width="516" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>, or my <a href="http://www.writingbs.com/" target="_blank">Books, Short Stories, and Articles at Writing BS</a></span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-37967711992048698982016-06-28T14:54:00.001-07:002016-07-05T20:47:28.592-07:00North America Cities<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
North America Cities:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oSTqXb434vQ/V3LxwbaHnPI/AAAAAAAADmc/cQ-Limu1JNUmWS4Rfs54fW1UwCrObLT1QCLcB/s1600/Cities.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="North American City Guide" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oSTqXb434vQ/V3LxwbaHnPI/AAAAAAAADmc/cQ-Limu1JNUmWS4Rfs54fW1UwCrObLT1QCLcB/s1600/Cities.png" title="North American Cities" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
City Guides:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/san-francisco.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="San Francisco City Guide" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b8Nec1lTeuA/V3Lxs7Jho2I/AAAAAAAADmU/T-h2EOCY2S4dL0ddoursjqy--z1zYYMvgCLcB/s1600/San%2BFrancisco.png" title="San Francisco City Guide" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>. Also check out my <a href="http://www.writingbs.com/" target="_blank">books, short stories, and articles at my website Writing BS</a>, or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bryson-Strupp/e/B00EC9YNVM" target="_blank">buy the Kindle versions on Amazo</a>n.</span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-48274489982912867642016-06-26T22:51:00.002-07:002016-06-30T15:04:32.693-07:00National Parks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-roOHuUT3KD4/V3C-IrbWuaI/AAAAAAAADkk/KTaSC4DrrccKdXUZOYhaGoMvCJ4wdF6vwCKgB/s1600/NationalParks.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="National Park Guides" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-roOHuUT3KD4/V3C-IrbWuaI/AAAAAAAADkk/KTaSC4DrrccKdXUZOYhaGoMvCJ4wdF6vwCKgB/s1600/NationalParks.png" title="National Parks" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
National Parks:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/Grand-Canyon.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Canyon National Park" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--wR30lEpecc/V3L7Jri_P4I/AAAAAAAADnY/8rlKCsU69lwsMyWv3lNQMidBlfnyu8K2wCKgB/s1600/grandcanyon.png" title="Grand Canyon National Park" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/Yosemite.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Yosemite National Park" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yG9DDI85tLg/V3F2ensxB3I/AAAAAAAADlI/EKqN9SmfnpozzlPGFRoz4_2V4AAiJjvpwCKgB/s1600/Yosemite.png" title="Yosemite National Park" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/Joshua-Tree.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Joshua Tree National Park" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xlnsgNKGKg/V3C_WDdhwqI/AAAAAAAADko/vh3u_ETvp38YWWHvi-9T6Pnzejz3uViggCLcB/s1600/JoshuaTree.png" title="Joshua Tree" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/White-Sands.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="White Sands National Monument" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kUNCR8j_Wn8/V2xgrMgL_UI/AAAAAAAADgI/eMxy5YW7xu0w7y_vNE46KHfyy4MVVhnLwCLcB/s1600/WhiteSands.png" title="White Sands" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Other:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/antelope-canyon.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M8l9_SCfiJs/V3WTEsxcC_I/AAAAAAAADpA/ObmAT0Sc-sgz7-YA4DvB0EcuwsNAj-fBACKgB/s1600/Antelope%2BCanyon.png" title="Antelope Canyon" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-10300980245884601232016-06-23T10:03:00.001-07:002016-06-30T15:09:10.900-07:00Antelope Canyon<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M8l9_SCfiJs/V3WTEsxcC_I/AAAAAAAADo0/rfo_yuZDSYQ_X89TKFNT11Mh5iItcPn4gCLcB/s1600/Antelope%2BCanyon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M8l9_SCfiJs/V3WTEsxcC_I/AAAAAAAADo0/rfo_yuZDSYQ_X89TKFNT11Mh5iItcPn4gCLcB/s1600/Antelope%2BCanyon.png" title="Antelope Canyon Header" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Antelope Canyon is probably one of the premier destinations in North America. The slot canyons of Arizona and Utah all unique in their own right, but the colors of Antelope Canyon really set it apart from the rest.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Planning your visit</b></span></div>
<div>
There are some important things to keep in mind when planning your visit to Antelope Canyon. The first thing to remember is that you are entering an Indian reservation and you will be charged a fee just to enter the land of the Canyon. This was $8 when I went recently, but it rose from earlier periods, so maybe it will go up again. I think this is just $8/car, but I am not positive about that.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keep in mind that there are peak times for both upper and lower canyon and better times of day to arrive as well. The best times for lower are usually in the morning around 8:30-10, and late afternoon from 4-5:30. On the other hand, the best time to visit upper is around noon. That being said, you will have packed crowds almost any time of day going to upper and many will mistakenly think that lower is better based on a couple high profile tourist articles that you can find online, so if you visit lower at noon, you are likely to find large crowds as well.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NVh_MzaySjg/V3WTs9QXrcI/AAAAAAAADo4/C8cpDu1t4x0m6p0Y4WUItCStqAojvYQqACLcB/s1600/IMG_0975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon line" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NVh_MzaySjg/V3WTs9QXrcI/AAAAAAAADo4/C8cpDu1t4x0m6p0Y4WUItCStqAojvYQqACLcB/s640/IMG_0975.JPG" title="Antelope Canyon line" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Line into the Canyon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You can go online and book tours beforehand, or you can book them at the window. For the upper canyon it is doubtful that you will find anything very quickly if you do a walk in, and reservations online go pretty quickly as well for peak times. During the summer you are not likely to find empty times in the canyon, but it still does happen, but gone are the days when lower canyon would be almost completely empty. Now both canyons are packed with tours throughout the summer.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GZX_lE9aMkI/V3WUHfYrw0I/AAAAAAAADpE/3T6B_WpOm6knrPPXDULu_-ir4WYkA2OdgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon exit" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GZX_lE9aMkI/V3WUHfYrw0I/AAAAAAAADpE/3T6B_WpOm6knrPPXDULu_-ir4WYkA2OdgCLcB/s640/IMG_1314.JPG" title="Antelope Canyon exit" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tight exit to the Lower Canyon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You must go down into the Canyon with a guide, and the going will be rather slow as there are multiple companies offering tours at all times of day. This leads to a lot of backed up traffic getting down into the canyons. So keep in mind that you are likely to stand for a long period of time in the sun before you get down into the canyon, and if you do a walk in, you are likely to spend at least an hour waiting for your tour to start, once again this will be in your car since it is just a parking lot where you wait, so bring water and be prepared to hang out in your car for an hour or more depending on which canyon you want to visit. The tours will also usually last about an hour to an hour and a half, so that's also something to keep in mind and to plan for with extra water.</div>
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1WOc6mwUP74/V3WT6-a2vVI/AAAAAAAADo8/5TeYQneNPF0pUwe560U6CFE8IG75vt3EACLcB/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1WOc6mwUP74/V3WT6-a2vVI/AAAAAAAADo8/5TeYQneNPF0pUwe560U6CFE8IG75vt3EACLcB/s640/IMG_1321.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can bring an umbrella as well</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finally, there is a price per person to getting down into the Canyon. It is $20/person to enter Lower Canyon and tack on an additional $20/person to visit Upper. These prices are not for premium tours either. If you want a premium photography tour with extra time and the ability to use tripods, you need to spend around $80/person.</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Upper or Lower Canyon</b></span></div>
<div>
A lot of people will get all worked up about the contest between upper and lower canyon. Quite frankly there are some big differences, but maybe not so great compared to what you want out of the canyon. If you are looking for the beautiful sun rays coming through a tight-lipped opening, upper is the canyon for you. If you want a little more color and a really nice tight canyon, lower is the one for you. Both have sun rays, but they come at different times of day, and quite honestly if you really want those light rays in a photo, you should probably spend extra for the photo tours of upper. If money is a problem, however, then go with lower, you won't be disappointed in either canyon, and lower can save a family a lot of money. It's also a little less crowded, although it is still anything but ever empty.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pEstV4s5Kho/V3WUV1FZzyI/AAAAAAAADpI/b1PMl4P53MgC44R4TYNkXWNGuSbvZr3FACLcB/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon sun rays, lower canyon" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pEstV4s5Kho/V3WUV1FZzyI/AAAAAAAADpI/b1PMl4P53MgC44R4TYNkXWNGuSbvZr3FACLcB/s640/5.jpg" title="Antelope Canyon sun rays" width="426" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Photographing the Canyon</b></span></div>
<div>
Photographers will complain about photographing the canyon all day long, and there are a lot of reasons for this. First and foremost, it is almost impossible to get a clear shot if you are part of a normal tour. Second, you aren't allowed the use of a tripod if you aren't part of a photography tour (thank goodness for this, however, since otherwise say goodbye to somewhat quick tours). This creates quite a problem in the dark canyons and especially in upper canyon, which can be extremely dark in some places.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOhGRN-HRw0/V3WUhiZH8QI/AAAAAAAADpM/LFsNp4Xzal8KQZbt4TOd_8cVFD23vxBAACLcB/s1600/IMG_1029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon crowd" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOhGRN-HRw0/V3WUhiZH8QI/AAAAAAAADpM/LFsNp4Xzal8KQZbt4TOd_8cVFD23vxBAACLcB/s640/IMG_1029.JPG" title="Antelope Canyon crowd" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ever moving throng</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Your guides, and some other blogs will give you some bad photography advice on taking pictures in the Canyon. First and foremost the big no no is to ramp up your iso past 800 (I would try to keep it under 400). Even on nice cameras this is hardly ever a good idea, struggle with shake long before you give up and push up your iso. The second bad piece of advice is to use your camera's built in HDR as a first resort. The reason why this can be bad is that on the long exposures you're going to shake more and if the camera is set to automate the hdr, this could show up in your pictures as well. A much better idea is to just shoot in raw and make use of bracketing to fix it later. Another trick is to lean against the wall when you take your shots, this will help diminish shake and help you get the shot you want. Another good option is to shoot with your camera's preset night mode as this will take a bunch of shots at a low exposure and automatically brighten them. This shouldn't be your go to option, but if you find yourself on a normal tour in the bottom of the darkness of Upper Canyon, this could save you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l2h6YfmPCS0/V3WYXypqFrI/AAAAAAAADp4/8WhWeG2EG6MulQ0jdPGJJHtwfI3t5tWnACLcB/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon colors" border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l2h6YfmPCS0/V3WYXypqFrI/AAAAAAAADp4/8WhWeG2EG6MulQ0jdPGJJHtwfI3t5tWnACLcB/s640/6.jpg" title="Antelope Canyon colors" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m0FKDDcb4lI/V3WVdYtEobI/AAAAAAAADpc/RzUaX-VBN9cNGrGtXl2cZG-JdjOQbaFbgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon wave" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m0FKDDcb4lI/V3WVdYtEobI/AAAAAAAADpc/RzUaX-VBN9cNGrGtXl2cZG-JdjOQbaFbgCLcB/s640/IMG_1090.JPG" title="Antelope Canyon sway" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i8RHxE5C-iU/V3WVdapQs6I/AAAAAAAADpg/5jJ8mcMnJyw_1HCAhYTYAFRWbHXkeS3LQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon" border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i8RHxE5C-iU/V3WVdapQs6I/AAAAAAAADpg/5jJ8mcMnJyw_1HCAhYTYAFRWbHXkeS3LQCLcB/s640/IMG_1108.JPG" title="Antelope Canyon" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EF9TH-5SFQ/V3WVdy0XOhI/AAAAAAAADpo/BniDR-UkLdAcDseLVMyi-arD_ro0Qi7_wCLcB/s1600/IMG_1167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon shark" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EF9TH-5SFQ/V3WVdy0XOhI/AAAAAAAADpo/BniDR-UkLdAcDseLVMyi-arD_ro0Qi7_wCLcB/s640/IMG_1167.JPG" title="Antelope Canyon shark" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TAIe6aLFe0/V3WVeDhJ-MI/AAAAAAAADps/MU9XmDIxMGkyVVD0-UlPMMtVUF0VXPmowCLcB/s1600/IMG_1200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Antelope Canyon sunrise" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--TAIe6aLFe0/V3WVeDhJ-MI/AAAAAAAADps/MU9XmDIxMGkyVVD0-UlPMMtVUF0VXPmowCLcB/s640/IMG_1200.JPG" title="Antelope Canyon sunrise" width="426" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Additional places to visit in the area</b></span></div>
<div>
Once you finish, you will be near Lake Powell, <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/Grand-Canyon.html" target="_blank">the Grand Canyon</a>, and Horseshoe Bend.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WY2Lo-D1gkA/V3L8HWZ5Q_I/AAAAAAAADnU/dS1bjlEOXgc3v-J7B4h_BcDt6ugjE2r6ACLcB/s1600/IMG_1332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Horseshoe Bend" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WY2Lo-D1gkA/V3L8HWZ5Q_I/AAAAAAAADnU/dS1bjlEOXgc3v-J7B4h_BcDt6ugjE2r6ACLcB/s640/IMG_1332.JPG" title="Horseshoe Bend" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There are many great after destinations if you hit the Grand Canyon along the road. Heading north you come to Kanab, where you can find Arches National Park, Canyonlands, and the vaunted Wave. A little north of there you find Capital Reef and a little farther west is Zion and north of there Bryce.<br />
<br />
If you are nearer the South Rim, you will be right next to Havasu Falls (takes a lot of planning to visit) or close to Sedona if you head south.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-64105666143176269182016-06-23T10:02:00.000-07:002016-06-30T14:34:49.716-07:00Grand Canyon National Park<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wR30lEpecc/V3L7Jri_P4I/AAAAAAAADms/bbLZL7yTm1Mym7prQ0Rukse8vG4Xc_HMwCLcB/s1600/grandcanyon.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Canyon National Park" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wR30lEpecc/V3L7Jri_P4I/AAAAAAAADms/bbLZL7yTm1Mym7prQ0Rukse8vG4Xc_HMwCLcB/s1600/grandcanyon.png" title="Grand Canyon National Park" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This guide will walk you through how to plan your visit to this majestic and expansive park, and also what to do while you're there.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Planning your visit</b></span><br />
The enormous Grand Canyon can be one of the greatest places to visit with your family, but it can also be extremely difficult to decide how to visit the park. What side should you visit? Is there a difference? What should you plan on bringing? Etc.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fguiLOJpieg/V3L7zFOHByI/AAAAAAAADnE/uTZ4Qjtjul4VB4uRZTr4wSUq1FH_aoNegCLcB/s1600/IMG_0909_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Canyon National Park" border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fguiLOJpieg/V3L7zFOHByI/AAAAAAAADnE/uTZ4Qjtjul4VB4uRZTr4wSUq1FH_aoNegCLcB/s640/IMG_0909_1.JPG" title="Grand Canyon National Park sunrise" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Well first of all, it is important to note that while the Grand Canyon is huge, the views on both the south and north rim are amazing, and well worth the drive no matter which side is closest to you. The most important part of planning your trip to the Grand Canyon, however, is to decide which side you will visit as this will also influence your choice on where to stay.<br />
<br />
There are a great number of hotels and campgrounds available around the Grand Canyon, but since the park is extremely busy much of the year, it is wise to book a hotel well before your trip as the spots are very limited, and often reach occupancy early on in the year. That being said, don't write off the Canyon if you are just planning a quick trip in the near future. There are plenty of hotels and campsites to go around, you may just have to stay a little farther away.<br />
<br />
Food and water:<br />
During the summer the Canyon can get extremely hot, and for those who hike down into the canyon, it is important to bring enough water, and remember that every step down means another step back up the canyon.<br />
<br />
Additionally make sure to check the weather reports in the area as the Canyon can flood, which normally is not super dangerous, unless you plan to camp near the water's edge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s6Niu_inGvg/V3L7XuYWxNI/AAAAAAAADm0/m8OLN1gsPaMwKSbELowkCuSlUTeW_VfGACLcB/s1600/IMG_0923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Canyon National Park" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s6Niu_inGvg/V3L7XuYWxNI/AAAAAAAADm0/m8OLN1gsPaMwKSbELowkCuSlUTeW_VfGACLcB/s640/IMG_0923.JPG" title="Grand Canyon National Park sun" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>What to do</b></span><br />
There are a whole host of ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon. First of all, you can take one of many tour buses into the area to enjoy the sites at a quick but relaxed pace. You can also get helicopter tours over the Canyon. One of my friends did this, and she absolutely loved it. Personally, helicopter tours aren't my favorite, but if you want to see the expansiveness of the canyon, this is a great way to do it. Finally, you can drive around the rim of the canyon and take it in at your own pace. If you do this, you will also have more time to hike down into the canyon and even get backpacking permits and overnight camp down in the canyon as well.<br />
<br />
Additionally, you can visit the canyon by rail as there is a Grand Canyon rail that brings over 230,000 people into the park every year from Williams, AZ. You can also get a mule tour and take some mules down into the canyon.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-seLKskN9J6U/V3L78CPUdgI/AAAAAAAADnM/gkKt4Bg18Ns0KkHZVqyY6RVQN5ncwXwEQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Canyon National Park" border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-seLKskN9J6U/V3L78CPUdgI/AAAAAAAADnM/gkKt4Bg18Ns0KkHZVqyY6RVQN5ncwXwEQCLcB/s640/IMG_0959.JPG" title="Grand Canyon National Park desert" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Finally, one of the funnest ways to see the Grand Canyon is to take a rafting tour. The tours last anywhere from 3 to 21 days and they sell out very quickly each year, so if this is what you want to do, you need to plan well in advance or be willing to fork out a lot of cash.<br />
<br />
If you are visiting the South Rim, you can go to the Desert View Point where you can climb a replica tower to get a great view of the canyon. If you do this, be prepared to pay extra as the trip up the tower isn't free.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eNgeRBYkILU/V3L7kUNAOcI/AAAAAAAADm8/5je75YwP-a8zZuG1wTh3SgIfJQxJ5U-ggCLcB/s1600/IMG_0946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Canyon National Park Desert View" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eNgeRBYkILU/V3L7kUNAOcI/AAAAAAAADm8/5je75YwP-a8zZuG1wTh3SgIfJQxJ5U-ggCLcB/s640/IMG_0946.JPG" title="Grand Canyon National Park desert tower" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Other places to visit</b></span><br />
Regardless of whether you visit the north or south side, you will be near Lake Powell, <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/antelope-canyon.html" target="_blank">Antelope Canyon</a>, and Horseshoe Bend.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WY2Lo-D1gkA/V3L8HWZ5Q_I/AAAAAAAADnU/dS1bjlEOXgc3v-J7B4h_BcDt6ugjE2r6ACLcB/s1600/IMG_1332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Horseshoe Bend" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WY2Lo-D1gkA/V3L8HWZ5Q_I/AAAAAAAADnU/dS1bjlEOXgc3v-J7B4h_BcDt6ugjE2r6ACLcB/s640/IMG_1332.JPG" title="Horseshoe Bend" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
There are many great after destinations if you hit the Grand Canyon along the road to somewhere else. Heading north you come to Kanab, where you can find Arches National Park, Canyonlands, and the vaunted Wave. A little north of there you find Capital Reef and a little farther west is Zion and north of there Bryce.<br />
<br />
If you are nearer the South Rim, you will be right next to Havasu Falls (takes a lot of planning to visit) or close to Sedona if you head south.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-85906183686976053282016-06-23T10:00:00.001-07:002016-06-27T12:00:23.973-07:00Yosemite National Park<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yG9DDI85tLg/V3F2ensxB3I/AAAAAAAADlI/Qp1pOu9VsSkYFN6KDsIejzoQveiNMPWWgCLcB/s1600/Yosemite.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Yosemite National Park" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yG9DDI85tLg/V3F2ensxB3I/AAAAAAAADlI/Qp1pOu9VsSkYFN6KDsIejzoQveiNMPWWgCLcB/s1600/Yosemite.png" title="Yosemite National Park" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Yosemite is easily one of the most beautiful parks you will visit. Grandiose valleys topped by glacial peaks make this park one you will not quickly forget. Here are some of the best things to see and do in the park<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.Yosemite Valley</b></span><br />
One of the easiest places to get to and the one with access to almost all the other options is Yosemite Valley. This is where you'll see breathtaking views of the different falls as well as find access to many of the large hikes. If you are traveling with kids, you'll also find the cultural centers and museums of the park located in the valley.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SveyRyyJg3o/V3F2tTr1GKI/AAAAAAAADlQ/DJkUu9zURlQ456Kbb4w7Dy3Ktnf2QTsNQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Yosemite Valley" border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SveyRyyJg3o/V3F2tTr1GKI/AAAAAAAADlQ/DJkUu9zURlQ456Kbb4w7Dy3Ktnf2QTsNQCLcB/s640/IMG_0682.JPG" title="Yosemite Valley" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Tunnel View</b></span><br />
Probably the most famous view in the park, this is easily accessible by car, and offers a great view looking towards El Capitan and Half Dome. This is a great spot to catch the sunrise as well as the view points directly towards the South East. Although don't let this fool you, as sometimes the best sunsets are viewed in the opposite direction of the sunset.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8ozyyfqGzfg/V3F29ApEVoI/AAAAAAAADlY/X3SNs3-h7WAHchdoxK8c5DBxE2-SfcSAgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0744-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tunnel View Yosemite" border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8ozyyfqGzfg/V3F29ApEVoI/AAAAAAAADlY/X3SNs3-h7WAHchdoxK8c5DBxE2-SfcSAgCLcB/s640/IMG_0744-1.jpg" title="Tunnel View Yosemite" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Glacier Point</b></span><br />
This can be an easily accessible point or you can make a great big hike out of it from the valley. It is accessible by the long trail to the top or by driving to the parking lot. My only advice on this amazing view is to get there early before too many people arrive. Once the road starts to get crowded, not only is parking difficult to find, but you also encounter a very very slow windy drive to the summit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ks8hn0JAr08/V3F3M3QqCkI/AAAAAAAADls/6W5JtfC_Qn8Kt0R9R3embvziATE_DhkeQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Glacier Point Yosemite" border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ks8hn0JAr08/V3F3M3QqCkI/AAAAAAAADls/6W5JtfC_Qn8Kt0R9R3embvziATE_DhkeQCLcB/s640/IMG_0753.JPG" title="Glacier Point Yosemite 2" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UWNhCg7ad0U/V3F3MtazySI/AAAAAAAADlo/8Ib3ixspsEgolGyO7yYZ65LF-t02Bp-mwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Glacier Point Yosemite" border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UWNhCg7ad0U/V3F3MtazySI/AAAAAAAADlo/8Ib3ixspsEgolGyO7yYZ65LF-t02Bp-mwCLcB/s640/IMG_0768.JPG" title="Glacier Point Yosemite1" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HnbTCRuDCTA/V3F3LsDbzoI/AAAAAAAADlg/cClR7RGQMJsKCeY4jJeaZPhJ0VL-zkB_ACLcB/s1600/IMG_0810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Glacier Point Yosemite" border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HnbTCRuDCTA/V3F3LsDbzoI/AAAAAAAADlg/cClR7RGQMJsKCeY4jJeaZPhJ0VL-zkB_ACLcB/s640/IMG_0810.JPG" title="Glacier Point Yosemite" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.Half Dome Hike</b></span><br />
This awe inspiring hike is one of the prized hikes in Yosemite. Hike to the very top of the dome and feel the breathtaking views of the summit. Definitely worth the hike, and the trail starts at the bottom in the valley. There is a large parking lot for cars for this hike, but it is very close to campgrounds, and it fills pretty early in the morning, so make sure to arrive early, or to come at later intervals when others may be coming back and vacating their spots.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.Vernal and Nevada Falls Hike</b></span><br />
Want to hike up next to two waterfalls? This is the hike for you. Another beautiful hike, this will take you through two of the many beautiful falls in Yosemite. This and Half Dome are both a little harder hikes, however, so make sure you're up to the challenge, and that you have enough time to complete the hike.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6.Mirror Lake</b></span><br />
This is a much easier hike for those who don't have as much time in the park, or who want to avoid the large crowds of the other destinations. Mirror Lake offers a brilliant, serene setting, and it almost feels like you have the world to yourself.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-53569932987473961772016-06-23T09:58:00.002-07:002016-06-27T12:00:35.804-07:00San Francisco<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0JC-2VTkPPU/V3C9ZKbcxoI/AAAAAAAADkQ/JVgBnIaE01MSpX5FAmKycdrKhElMmAZRQCLcB/s1600/San%2BFrancisco.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="San Francisco" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0JC-2VTkPPU/V3C9ZKbcxoI/AAAAAAAADkQ/JVgBnIaE01MSpX5FAmKycdrKhElMmAZRQCLcB/s1600/San%2BFrancisco.png" title="Top things to do in San Francisco" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Planning to travel to the Golden Gate City? Here is a list of great ideas to see and do while you're there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>How to get around</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;">San Francisco is unlike many American cities in that the public transportation system is both extensive, safe, and very reliable. The trams are fun and eventually turn into a metro, their are also buses, and the old-time trams that still run in the city. Additionally, you can find cabs without too much of a problem. There are also a lot of places to park if you want to drive, but be prepared to pay tolls to enter the city by the bridges, or to spend a lot of time hunting for parking during the day if you choose this route.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.Golden Gate Bridge</b></span></div>
<div>
You will probably want to check this landmark monument to engineering feats off your list when you visit San Francisco, but the biggest question is always where is the best place to visit the bridge? And what should you know about visiting it?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well first of all, keep in mind that traveling across the bridge from the city, you don't pay a toll. You only pay a toll when you return to San Francisco heading South. Wales has a similar pay one route into the small nation, their explanation? You only pay for good things, so paying to enter Wales means it's better than England, the same explanation might be used for San Francisco?haha.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/H4XSxjL6u8E/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H4XSxjL6u8E?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That being said there are many different ways to enjoy the bridge. If you go during the summer expect Karl the fog, yep that's his name, to be there early in the morning and to come creeping back around 4 or 5. This could ruin or make your pictures and your day on the bridge. Sometimes, when there is a low fog, you get the amazing view of the bridge just peaking out over the tops. Other times you may get unlucky to have a cold windy day with the entire bridge covered in fog.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The first and probably easiest way to see the bridge is to park on the side opposite of San Francisco, where the park is and then to walk around the park and across the bridge. You will find multiple high top view points near Battery Spencer or Fort Baker, and also quite a few beaches on both sides to catch the bridge with the waves. There are also a couple beaches on the San Francisco side if you want to view the bridge from that angle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g11FM05nI7g/V3CcedINEzI/AAAAAAAADi8/O4oLrKBuEHA8sSaLgxnhvNTih680NxEKgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Golden Gate Bridge" border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g11FM05nI7g/V3CcedINEzI/AAAAAAAADi8/O4oLrKBuEHA8sSaLgxnhvNTih680NxEKgCLcB/s640/IMG_0196.JPG" title="San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Lombard Street</b></span></div>
<div>
Lombard Street is known as the crookedest street in the world, and it really is quite the adventure to get down. My recommendation is to visit the street at night, when parking is easy to find and the street is just as beautiful (if not more so from above). If you really have to come during the day, however, be prepared to fight to find a parking spot, and to remember to always angle your tires when you've parked on a hill. Best places to park are above the street, and in the surrounding area, but sometimes you can find things below the street, although I wouldn't try my luck during the daytime.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9-S2xZjqu0/V3CcZIm7EeI/AAAAAAAADi0/MqSpE2WnJ_8A5VCE8qzjno8nSH6HelXfwCLcB/s1600/Lombardstreet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Lombard Street" border="0" height="418" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k9-S2xZjqu0/V3CcZIm7EeI/AAAAAAAADi0/MqSpE2WnJ_8A5VCE8qzjno8nSH6HelXfwCLcB/s640/Lombardstreet.jpg" title="Lombard Street" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YR-Afjep5p4/V3C15-wiQ1I/AAAAAAAADjw/etEVXj7qkCs_K0JvsRKGHeZU6UEsPsgUACLcB/s1600/DSC07041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lombard Street to Coit Tower" border="0" height="522" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YR-Afjep5p4/V3C15-wiQ1I/AAAAAAAADjw/etEVXj7qkCs_K0JvsRKGHeZU6UEsPsgUACLcB/s640/DSC07041.JPG" title="Lombard Street" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lombard Street with Coit Tower in the background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Embarcadero -> Pier 39</b></span></div>
<div>
One of the streets that are the most fun to walk down. You can walk from the old ferry building, which has now become a large and interesting market down to Pier 39, where you can catch a glimpse of the seals living in this strange combined eco-system. If you prefer not to walk, you can also take one of the old San Francisco trams all the way down the strip and up all the way to Lombard Street if you would rather do public transportation.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pryzzh47fXM/V3CcqNm395I/AAAAAAAADjE/ezyRVobn0FcLTq8Ha3DaEROCYGOTFlvDwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0590_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Embarcadero" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pryzzh47fXM/V3CcqNm395I/AAAAAAAADjE/ezyRVobn0FcLTq8Ha3DaEROCYGOTFlvDwCLcB/s640/IMG_0590_2.JPG" title="Embarcadero" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is also where you will find Ghirardelli Square and all the chocolate fantasies you can imagine, and a place you will make a beeline for if you're a chocolate lover. I'd recommend getting a salted caramel hot chocolate, but...that's just me.</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.Mission District</b></span></div>
<div>
San Francisco is well-known to be a place of extraordinary international cuisine, and the Mission District is a great place for any kinds of food and also a great bar scene. Make sure to especially visit Valencia Street.</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.Golden Gate Park</b></span></div>
<div>
This is one of the stranger, hidden treasures of San Francisco. This is a huge park that is complete with a museum with glass viewpoints as well as a Japanese Tea Garden, where yes, you really can sit down and have a Japanese tea.</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6.Palace of Fine Arts</b></span></div>
<div>
A relic of the old World Fairs, this stands alongside of the Eiffel Tower as one of the great contributions to city monuments the fair created. You'll most likely find a wedding or two or a Quinsenera going on when you go, but those definitely add to the feeling of this old, beautiful park.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqiFGbbZIys/V3C23_NJ1jI/AAAAAAAADkA/a-XGsS2Iob4tjnCJi188cZTJ9xJasZCpACLcB/s1600/cute%2Bgirls%2Bfine%2Barts%2Bpalace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fine Arts Palace, San Francisco" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqiFGbbZIys/V3C23_NJ1jI/AAAAAAAADkA/a-XGsS2Iob4tjnCJi188cZTJ9xJasZCpACLcB/s640/cute%2Bgirls%2Bfine%2Barts%2Bpalace.jpg" title="Fine Arts Palace" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fajVObPC3DA/V3C10x5XkqI/AAAAAAAADjo/0q8cCb6AbKYY_-44VAxW300N0irfQFtQACLcB/s1600/DSC07021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Quinsenera, San Francisco" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fajVObPC3DA/V3C10x5XkqI/AAAAAAAADjo/0q8cCb6AbKYY_-44VAxW300N0irfQFtQACLcB/s640/DSC07021.JPG" title="Quinsenera " width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7.Sausalito Ferry</b></span></div>
<div>
One of the more fun ways to see the Bay Area, this ferry will take you past many of the great islands like Alcatraz that add to the allure of San Francisco.</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8.China Town or Japan Town</b></span></div>
<div>
San Francisco is very famous for its large Asian population. This last time I was there, I even saw many of the ads in the metro in both English and Mandarin. China Town, therefore, becomes almost a must see if you've never been in San Francisco. It really seems like you enter a different world along the beautiful, steep streets. Additionally, there is a competing section, not nearly as large, but quite amazing in its own right that is Japan Town. Both are worth visits and worth eating at or near.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BYSHu0BPgt4/V3C1jmXBHyI/AAAAAAAADjY/wLUcfv_eK-A6lwWTDdmjiMBwfwZWVPOVQCLcB/s1600/DSC07062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="China Town, San Francisco" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BYSHu0BPgt4/V3C1jmXBHyI/AAAAAAAADjY/wLUcfv_eK-A6lwWTDdmjiMBwfwZWVPOVQCLcB/s640/DSC07062.JPG" title="China town" width="416" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9.Business District</b></span></div>
<div>
Another one of the great parts of the city are the massive concrete towers reaching high into the sky. If you're like me, and grew up in a small town, this is going to be one of your favorite parts about visiting big cities. You feel the cool chill as the wind is tunneled through the seemingly tiny streets. Additionally, in San Francisco, this is also where you'll find another large shop for Ghirardelli, where the lines are not nearly as long and the place is just as good if you prefer that route as well.</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10.Point Reyes National Park</b></span></div>
<div>
Initially, I was surprised at the size of Point Reyes. I thought it was a small shoreline, but it is in fact a very large nature preserve, with lots to do from hiking in the park to whatever it is you do on beaches. This probably shouldn't be at the top of your list if you're a first timer in San Francisco, but if you have time or have been to the city before, this can offer great views and a great respite from the city if you want to get away.</div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>11.Coit Tower</b></span></div>
<div>
Coit Tower is one of the most ingenious places in all of the city. Built in the 30's this tower offers great views of the city itself, unlike some cities, where you can only take an elevator to the top of a skyscraper and then you are already on top of the greatest thing to see. Instead, Coit Tower lets you view the entire city and the skyline. It is located on another steep hill, and parking is hard to find on the way up. You can park down low and hike to the top or do a multitude of other combinations as there is parking on the way up, but once again, don't expect to find a spot.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0_rabxjFKw/V3C1tTyQ71I/AAAAAAAADjg/Ksg3t-TLXEIu36vMYpHXqeyPxk1TtelcQCLcB/s1600/DSC07051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Coit Tower View" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q0_rabxjFKw/V3C1tTyQ71I/AAAAAAAADjg/Ksg3t-TLXEIu36vMYpHXqeyPxk1TtelcQCLcB/s640/DSC07051.JPG" title="Coit Tower View" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-30779687027832163392016-06-23T09:57:00.000-07:002016-06-24T13:42:35.949-07:00Joshua Tree National Park<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5R2QBBimRKk/V22a2NuiZ2I/AAAAAAAADh4/iv49vYFOdIEKrVwVZqQ-2LfeJ0YSL-sBwCLcB/s1600/JoshuaTree.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Joshua Tree National Park" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5R2QBBimRKk/V22a2NuiZ2I/AAAAAAAADh4/iv49vYFOdIEKrVwVZqQ-2LfeJ0YSL-sBwCLcB/s1600/JoshuaTree.png" title="" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
You made it out in the desert to Joshua Tree National Park. Here are the top things to remember about planning your trip, things to do, and photographing the park.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Planning your trip</b></span><br />
There are some important things to keep in mind when visiting Joshua Tree. First of all, this park unlike many other national parks has ready access to a town just outside of the park. It is also relatively easy to access from the highway in Southern California. This leads many to think they won't need essentials like water and food, but the park is very large if entering from the south, and water is always a necessity, especially if visiting during the hot, summer season.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vFoeoYkV2SM/V22ZsevpW6I/AAAAAAAADhg/VagDSwnC6CU3M-QT8_S6t3LzPHGJmTerwCLcB/s1600/IMG_0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Joshua Tree National Park" border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vFoeoYkV2SM/V22ZsevpW6I/AAAAAAAADhg/VagDSwnC6CU3M-QT8_S6t3LzPHGJmTerwCLcB/s640/IMG_0042.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you're looking to camp in the park, you are usually in luck. This park is nowhere near as full as many other parks and especially during the summer Joshua Tree experiences a big drop off in traffic because of the heat. This can be a good thing, however, as spots open up and last minute trips can go off without a hitch.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Things to do</b></span><br />
The park is probably most famous for its night sky, and the opportunity it affords Californians to really see the Milky Way. While this park is nowhere near the brightest place to see the stars, it is quite amazing how close it can be to everything and the hustle and bustle of Southern California, while still being far enough out to see the stars.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kc1SMuoNK0A/V22ZF15QAsI/AAAAAAAADho/O_OYMPJk2cojsMtiQxEIE6FSr4ma4RkgACKgB/s1600/SFdrive%2B%2528358%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Joshua Tree National Park" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kc1SMuoNK0A/V22ZF15QAsI/AAAAAAAADho/O_OYMPJk2cojsMtiQxEIE6FSr4ma4RkgACKgB/s640/SFdrive%2B%2528358%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Another of the big activities in the Park is bouldering, and there are plenty of boulders to choose from out in this expansive park. It is home to nearly 8,000 bouldering paths, so come and find yours.<br />
<br />
Other great activities include horseback riding, backpacking, and biking. Just remember whatever your activity to stay hydrated with lots of water.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Photographing the Park</b></span><br />
Joshua Tree can be one of the harder parks to photograph as the desert heat can quickly create a haze that covers the horizon or the lack of tall trees or mountains can turn your photos flat quickly. In order to avoid these problems make sure to get to the park early on or later in the evening to get some interesting shadows and to help you avoid some of the haze.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JdLQ2CAYcAc/V22Z3UMSOLI/AAAAAAAADhs/FoBZvRHhunEJ5hBDQBXBY8Tnz2oWxEXJACLcB/s1600/IMG_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Joshua Tree National Park" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JdLQ2CAYcAc/V22Z3UMSOLI/AAAAAAAADhs/FoBZvRHhunEJ5hBDQBXBY8Tnz2oWxEXJACLcB/s640/IMG_0001.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Additionally, the trees can start all look alike when you're shooting, so try to get creative when shooting them and look for the different views in patches to keep your interest up. You don't want to shoot a few shots and decide you've had enough. Trust me, you want a lot of photos of this awesome park, but you will probably start to get bored if you don't try to get creative.<br />
<br />
Finally, see my guide for <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/2016/06/astrophotography.html" target="_blank">Astrophotography if you want to shoot the stars in the park</a>. This is much more challenging, but is well worth the effort if you have the time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<br /></div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-38514070593062529472016-06-23T09:55:00.000-07:002016-06-23T13:59:01.865-07:00White Sands National Monument<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k541mH2iEH8/V2wjPjCiUVI/AAAAAAAADeU/P4WIQXNoZl0wG3YCzUd2EmHuTs9s9n86QCKgB/s1600/WhiteSands.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="White Sands National Monument" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k541mH2iEH8/V2wjPjCiUVI/AAAAAAAADeU/P4WIQXNoZl0wG3YCzUd2EmHuTs9s9n86QCKgB/s1600/WhiteSands.png" title="" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So you made the long trek out to Las Cruces, New Mexico or to El Paso, Texas and want to come to White Sands. Here's a guide of what you should know about planning your trip, photographing the dunes, and things to do in the dunes.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Planning your trip</b></span><br />
The first thing to think about is how to get to White Sands. It's about an hour drive from Las Cruces, or if you're coming from El Paso, it can be around an hour and a half. Make sure to check on road closures however as the road can sometimes be closed due to missile tests. I don't really know how often they do this, but I am guessing it's not very often and the signs may literally just be a relic of the Cold War.<br />
<br />
The important things to note about planning your trip are the park has strange hours. It isn't quite the status of a national park that is open year round 24/7. I think the main reason it closes at night, however, is due to drifting sand, so they have to plow the roads frequently. You may want to check weather before your trip and pay attention to the wind forecast as that could severely affect your trip out to White Sands. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q37j2_BGPDI/V2xNEa4w6VI/AAAAAAAADfs/cB2lG55gcAsVmdQJjMngSGF1P_q1wXoDwCLcB/s1600/whitesands4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="White Sands National Monument" border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q37j2_BGPDI/V2xNEa4w6VI/AAAAAAAADfs/cB2lG55gcAsVmdQJjMngSGF1P_q1wXoDwCLcB/s640/whitesands4.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Because of this they have posted hours, but sometimes they do open the gates early, so check for this beforehand if you want to gamble and try to get there for a sunrise, but if the gates aren't open, remember this is a gamble.<br />
<br />
Alternatively, you can always just plan to hike into a back country campsite to stay in the park, and the camps are not nearly as packed or as far in as may national parks, so this is a great option if you want to stay in the dune field.<br />
<br />
Besides that remember to plan for hot temperatures and to bring lots of water. Also remember to keep track of where you go in the dunes as it can be a very disorienting place, and if you get high winds, your tracks may not lead you home. I've heard quite a few stories about photographers spending long hours in the dunes and having trouble remembering how to get back.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jErEmUiPC3o/V2xG81yVMxI/AAAAAAAADek/Aqqn0jiAdNo0OMyj_h7CZ927G_Ngv2XXwCLcB/s1600/SFdrive%2B%252898%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="White Sands National Monument" border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jErEmUiPC3o/V2xG81yVMxI/AAAAAAAADek/Aqqn0jiAdNo0OMyj_h7CZ927G_Ngv2XXwCLcB/s640/SFdrive%2B%252898%2529.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Photographing the Dunes</b></span><br />
The dunes are a photographers paradise. They say this is one of the few places that is visible from space without any difficulty, and it truly is a unique place to go. You'll be surprised as you drive out as the vast desert suddenly gives way to towering white dunes. So what are the best techniques for making your photographs memorable?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RadM4S6kN3E/V2xHNC5AIpI/AAAAAAAADes/TRft3qEo5fEs8BRXHqGZrqZ6N9OfqNeXgCLcB/s1600/SFdrive%2B%2528131%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="White Sands National Monument" border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RadM4S6kN3E/V2xHNC5AIpI/AAAAAAAADes/TRft3qEo5fEs8BRXHqGZrqZ6N9OfqNeXgCLcB/s640/SFdrive%2B%2528131%2529.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The first thing to remember is that the Dunes are going to quickly mess with the exposure compensation in your camera. Make sure to turn up your exposure even when shooting in Raw. The reason for this is your camera will see the huge bright scene and think it's too bright and try to drop it until your dunes turn from white to gray.<br />
<br />
Another important tip is to get creative with your shots. It's hard to take a bad picture in the park, so just pick some kind of photograph you want to shoot. For me I wanted tracks, mountains, and sand. You may pick something like a bush, or the lines of the dunes, but one important aspect of landscape photography that I have always found useful is have a goal of what you want to shoot, shoot lots of that, and shoot everything in between, and keep shooting till you get your goal shot. If that happens early, then come up with something new, but this will keep you busy shooting and keep you from missing what you want, and also all the great photos you stumble upon in between.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-anF89j3MS3w/V2xHYoF-JLI/AAAAAAAADe0/a8dqZ_FPJ8EMguApyEraOo1jDyO5yxcJQCLcB/s1600/SFdrive%2B%2528118%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-anF89j3MS3w/V2xHYoF-JLI/AAAAAAAADe0/a8dqZ_FPJ8EMguApyEraOo1jDyO5yxcJQCLcB/s640/SFdrive%2B%2528118%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Another tip is to get low or zoom in on the dunes with the mountains in the background. The stunning difference in size really is quite marvelous and is well worth the effort.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSiU9_PW2yY/V2xHeQ6Y2VI/AAAAAAAADe8/0P0TDeda7ZAPSyiDu-EJp2nflYVMOfHgACLcB/s1600/SFdrive%2B%2528115%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GSiU9_PW2yY/V2xHeQ6Y2VI/AAAAAAAADe8/0P0TDeda7ZAPSyiDu-EJp2nflYVMOfHgACLcB/s640/SFdrive%2B%2528115%2529.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The last thing to remember about photography in the dunes is to watch out for wind and sand. When I went, there wasn't much by way of wind, but I've heard from other photographers that the high winds can really pick up and get sand all over your camera. Make sure to take precautions with something as simple as a cut out plastic sack or garbage bag. Do you best to protect your camera from the elements, and if you do get lots of sand in the camera. One tip I've heard is to drive and hold your camera out the window, letting the air brush it off for you. If you do this make sure that thing is held as tight as you can though. I am in no way responsible if something happens to your camera while doing this.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Things to do in the Dunes</b></span><br />
Probably the most prominent aspect of heading to these beautiful dunes is to catch a sunset turn the white dunes into reflective pools. Every night the rangers do a sunset hike if you're interested in doing this. The hike starts at 7 and runs from May to August.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q4IDwGsV9bA/V2xL94Ts-YI/AAAAAAAADfM/h91INAbX5IcFvgL1qJQ3b-AR7MFcdVZ7ACLcB/s1600/SFdrive%2B%2528130%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="White Sands National Monument" border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q4IDwGsV9bA/V2xL94Ts-YI/AAAAAAAADfM/h91INAbX5IcFvgL1qJQ3b-AR7MFcdVZ7ACLcB/s640/SFdrive%2B%2528130%2529.jpg" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The next most popular thing to do in the Dunes is to go sledding. You can also bring a snowboard and try that as well, but if you get to the park and find out you forgot your sliding device, you are in luck because you can buy the sleds at the park, just remember if they break to take them out with you.<br />
<br />
Another popular activity is to go and have a picnic in the dunes. They have lots of roadside tables to have picnics on throughout the dunes, and they're covered if you have any qualms about the hot sun beating down on you.<br />
<br />
Another great thing to do here that is much harder to do in national parks is to camp deep in the dunes. Not only are these short hikes to the campgrounds, but they are never as full as other national parks. So thinking of a last second vacation and a fun place to spend it? The dunes are a great choice of venue.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J_eqzoHmqfk/V2xMfgPytGI/AAAAAAAADfY/SPaPruWNN9seEVcfvJ_iY6DibPCb4uwIACLcB/s1600/SFdrive%2B%2528169%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="White Sands National Monument" border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J_eqzoHmqfk/V2xMfgPytGI/AAAAAAAADfY/SPaPruWNN9seEVcfvJ_iY6DibPCb4uwIACLcB/s640/SFdrive%2B%2528169%2529.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGfEmhUrxAQ/V2xMnPB_7oI/AAAAAAAADfg/Q7PjyKUBzUoI1MtlF32UoF2ymfqvduxIwCLcB/s1600/SFdrive%2B%2528164%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="White Sands National Monument" border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGfEmhUrxAQ/V2xMnPB_7oI/AAAAAAAADfg/Q7PjyKUBzUoI1MtlF32UoF2ymfqvduxIwCLcB/s640/SFdrive%2B%2528164%2529.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The hike is so easy, this lady was using a roller bag</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<br />
<div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-44228892023866959182016-06-03T16:38:00.000-07:002016-06-03T16:42:30.167-07:00Top 10 Things to See & Do in the United Kingdom<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlOto6-_AKw/V1IUvaYZ_2I/AAAAAAAACwU/4CdaR7grpPUXYauXdey70JJ2iHJpOHarwCLcB/s1600/uktop10.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlOto6-_AKw/V1IUvaYZ_2I/AAAAAAAACwU/4CdaR7grpPUXYauXdey70JJ2iHJpOHarwCLcB/s1600/uktop10.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4LfGjNdgeGk/V1IQ60QvqMI/AAAAAAAACv8/0kHF7PaDmuUhxUUWoERwDTAIgIDv-0_pwCKgB/s1600/IMG_0418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4LfGjNdgeGk/V1IQ60QvqMI/AAAAAAAACv8/0kHF7PaDmuUhxUUWoERwDTAIgIDv-0_pwCKgB/s640/IMG_0418.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.See some stacked stones</b></span><br />
It almost goes without saying that you should visit Stonehenge when you visit the UK, but what most people don't know is that there are many different Stonehenge's throughout the UK, some of which are both older and larger than the famous one bearing the name. Interestingly enough, most people think that millions of years ago the UK was a sandy bottom of an ocean. As the waters, receded the sand dried out, became hard, and eventually cracked leaving stones that were easily found by early inhabitants to build the monoliths for whatever reasons they were built. These reasons are still unknown, but you can go and lend your voice to the speculation.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kvZC1AaI1ag/V1IS8LrhPLI/AAAAAAAACwQ/FneqKoR4VqkE_LuMN-OtOQSgttuZaAbFwCKgB/s1600/IMG_1174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kvZC1AaI1ag/V1IS8LrhPLI/AAAAAAAACwQ/FneqKoR4VqkE_LuMN-OtOQSgttuZaAbFwCKgB/s640/IMG_1174.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Visit the British Museum</b></span><br />
"The sun never sets on the British Empire," was once the phrase. Well, nothing really displays that more than the British Museum. Host to hundreds of pilfered items during empire, and there are still numerous cries for the British to return some of these artifacts to their "rightful owners." The British aren't alone in these problems if you haven't read my post on the <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/Top-tourist-attractions-14-Italy.html" target="_blank">Top Things to See & Do in Italy</a>. Personally, I think the Brits have rights to these world treasures, and the world is better served by them being all in one place, but this is not a shared opinion especially when it comes to the reliefs of the Parthenon. Whatever your opinion, however, the treasures inside this museum make it one of the must sees if you're in London.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sBcaoN58dl0/V1IRAFdR-LI/AAAAAAAACv8/cS1RWXxYA5sS7AtJUTrTAAbbQvEDdJLpgCKgB/s1600/IMG_0532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sBcaoN58dl0/V1IRAFdR-LI/AAAAAAAACv8/cS1RWXxYA5sS7AtJUTrTAAbbQvEDdJLpgCKgB/s640/IMG_0532.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Attend Evensong</b></span><br />
These are the only two places from London I put on this list, even though wandering London should be a destination in itself. There are many other things to do in the city from wandering markets (make sure to eat a hamburger with the most delicious bacon you'll ever taste), to touring parliament, seeing a play or musical, touring the tower, and going up in the eye(I only recommend this if you are looking for a romantic moment). But one of the best things you can do is attend Evensong at Westminster Abbey. Not only do you get to hear what the church was originally purposed for and listen to something from the Church of England, but you also get to enter the abbey for free.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbsIGnfNrWc/V1IQ-ASPfyI/AAAAAAAACv8/wU2lD3USkHgxOx1l7DNc-y7HFVQk4i7LwCKgB/s1600/IMG_0452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TbsIGnfNrWc/V1IQ-ASPfyI/AAAAAAAACv8/wU2lD3USkHgxOx1l7DNc-y7HFVQk4i7LwCKgB/s640/IMG_0452.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u9Dr5gIT3gU/V1IQ_cl1YeI/AAAAAAAACv8/T5PClUm4XGgHoENjKVK_V0fOMrF304p1gCKgB/s1600/IMG_0660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u9Dr5gIT3gU/V1IQ_cl1YeI/AAAAAAAACv8/T5PClUm4XGgHoENjKVK_V0fOMrF304p1gCKgB/s640/IMG_0660.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.Take a punt boat near Cambridge</b></span><br />
Nothing quite shouts the idyllic lifestyle like slowly punting along near Cambridge. Make sure to bring your favorite Tennyson, Wordsworth, or Keats.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.Bask in the baths of Bath, oh and tour them too</b></span><br />
While naturally occurring hot springs are all over much of mainland Europe, in the UK, this is the one place the Romans could find them. The centuries old bath built here maintains some of the greatest archaeological finds from the Roman era in Great Britain, and the trip out to Bath is worth it just to see that. Bath, however, also has working baths that you can still use. Shimmy down to your skivies and enjoy a rooftop bath overlooking the city. Sound dreamy? Better hope it's just not the usual British rainy weather.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4_71wlUhnds/V1IRAdEWo_I/AAAAAAAACv8/eFkNBNzxKX8EHoPEIL-3daJz4nj4atnmwCKgB/s1600/IMG_0981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4_71wlUhnds/V1IRAdEWo_I/AAAAAAAACv8/eFkNBNzxKX8EHoPEIL-3daJz4nj4atnmwCKgB/s640/IMG_0981.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6.Chill out on the Cliffs of Dover</b></span><br />
These white cliffs are one of the most spectacular sites in all of England, and well worth the trip to see the short distance between the channel and mainland Europe. You can feel absolutely medieval standing there with the wind in your face, planning how to defend the fortress Britain.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7.Hike Hadrian's Wall</b></span><br />
Hadrian's wall is definitely a must-see if you make it to norther England. If you are feeling particularly ambitious, however, and have the time, you should think about hiking along the wall. There are also those that hike all the way north to the wall and then the 84 miles down the wall. <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8.Visit Harry Potter's home</b></span><br />
If you're in the area of Bath to see Stonehenge, you might as well take a wider tour and see some of the little hamlets in the area. One of these holds Harry Potter's parent's cottage.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwgbXhPBMJI/V1IS8oE7z9I/AAAAAAAACwI/n7Y4YAiYBwsj-_v3xHrwBFUFb7EThTd8gCKgB/s1600/IMG_1275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwgbXhPBMJI/V1IS8oE7z9I/AAAAAAAACwI/n7Y4YAiYBwsj-_v3xHrwBFUFb7EThTd8gCKgB/s640/IMG_1275.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9.See York Minster</b></span><br />
Another beautiful, architectural masterpiece, this great church is the largest Gothic Cathedral in Northern Europe and has been a ministering diocese since 314. Yeah that's right for almost 2,000 years.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10.Find the Lizard Peninsula</b></span><br />
This is the most southerly point of the British mainland, and is one of the prettiest parts of coastal Britain if you're looking for curvy beaches and strange rock formations.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-16893890919678119272016-06-03T05:47:00.002-07:002016-06-29T21:27:51.686-07:00share buttons<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2zZQwY4iwgM/V1GA43qMc9I/AAAAAAAACuQ/RPUQf13qTSQ3863I5xA0Gt66HzRyzFuNQCLcB/s1600/Email%2BButton%2BSharereplace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2zZQwY4iwgM/V1GA43qMc9I/AAAAAAAACuQ/RPUQf13qTSQ3863I5xA0Gt66HzRyzFuNQCLcB/s1600/Email%2BButton%2BSharereplace.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e7IjdpytStQ/V1GA42VcFfI/AAAAAAAACuM/a2OJ9hrxCjMptSUrPz83b7WVs6o8TWSmgCLcB/s1600/Facebook%2BButton%2BSharereplace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e7IjdpytStQ/V1GA42VcFfI/AAAAAAAACuM/a2OJ9hrxCjMptSUrPz83b7WVs6o8TWSmgCLcB/s1600/Facebook%2BButton%2BSharereplace.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1B417D5mmE/V1GA43fAPjI/AAAAAAAACuI/3eOsTDijtsQYYabM3FHmlLzVT3DBd5c5ACLcB/s1600/Pinterest%2BButton%2BSharereplace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1B417D5mmE/V1GA43fAPjI/AAAAAAAACuI/3eOsTDijtsQYYabM3FHmlLzVT3DBd5c5ACLcB/s1600/Pinterest%2BButton%2BSharereplace.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4HNoesoF0GI/V1GCvh7mMHI/AAAAAAAACuc/r29m8W-nTuA16KVKruN9hXKv4N9Wh1bawCLcB/s1600/Share%2Bthis%2BPostreplace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4HNoesoF0GI/V1GCvh7mMHI/AAAAAAAACuc/r29m8W-nTuA16KVKruN9hXKv4N9Wh1bawCLcB/s1600/Share%2Bthis%2BPostreplace.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4NDxPI6z8qA/V1F8HoYtoJI/AAAAAAAACtg/Q63yyloLH2Qwlf6WeUk7Dg2T31DIEmFCwCLcB/s1600/Share%2Bthis%2BPostreplace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4NDxPI6z8qA/V1F8HoYtoJI/AAAAAAAACtg/Q63yyloLH2Qwlf6WeUk7Dg2T31DIEmFCwCLcB/s1600/Share%2Bthis%2BPostreplace.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QVkSz68qCeA/V1F_biZXwHI/AAAAAAAACt8/Lqi96FSjx8gQH-YhQUcEzmUZL3VMBmFtQCLcB/s1600/Twitter%2BButton%2BSharereplace.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QVkSz68qCeA/V1F_biZXwHI/AAAAAAAACt8/Lqi96FSjx8gQH-YhQUcEzmUZL3VMBmFtQCLcB/s1600/Twitter%2BButton%2BSharereplace.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L82Yusn3xwA/V1H3cw8MaoI/AAAAAAAACuw/LyXollFC5ZgjWrfL-oSDavr-jp9kSZXXQCLcB/s1600/Instagram-icon1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-L82Yusn3xwA/V1H3cw8MaoI/AAAAAAAACuw/LyXollFC5ZgjWrfL-oSDavr-jp9kSZXXQCLcB/s1600/Instagram-icon1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAjVlW7-ZIs/V1H4ys3CayI/AAAAAAAACu4/5xWAK1suiIAZ9iKs30KagOl6P_7-TjHSwCLcB/s1600/followme.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAjVlW7-ZIs/V1H4ys3CayI/AAAAAAAACu4/5xWAK1suiIAZ9iKs30KagOl6P_7-TjHSwCLcB/s1600/followme.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ufzJvlLjS4o/V3SfRmzqpxI/AAAAAAAADn0/qIWdBD-Md6UxoO1ALL9L_Fnzx8acMjrYQCLcB/s1600/titletravelguide1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="65" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ufzJvlLjS4o/V3SfRmzqpxI/AAAAAAAADn0/qIWdBD-Md6UxoO1ALL9L_Fnzx8acMjrYQCLcB/s320/titletravelguide1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WzzHU4yrizU/V3SfvPZRNeI/AAAAAAAADn8/a9SnBWvlxZUOUkcvlFqjubql6h76RuNbwCLcB/s1600/titletravelguide3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="65" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WzzHU4yrizU/V3SfvPZRNeI/AAAAAAAADn8/a9SnBWvlxZUOUkcvlFqjubql6h76RuNbwCLcB/s320/titletravelguide3.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-47534139483076953572016-06-02T21:44:00.002-07:002016-06-02T21:45:03.708-07:00Top 8 Things to See & Do in Belgium<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPVcdIwWplw/V1ELEGt18OI/AAAAAAAACso/YTXxoJjM-68IiWrnSG2nyrHbUFivSui2wCLcB/s1600/top8belgium.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uPVcdIwWplw/V1ELEGt18OI/AAAAAAAACso/YTXxoJjM-68IiWrnSG2nyrHbUFivSui2wCLcB/s1600/top8belgium.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
One of the tiny countries that often goes overlooked by many, this small country is rich in history and comparison. It is especially educational to visit Holland after finishing with Belgium or vice-versa. What made these two countries so different was a mere 80 years war and a battle for religious freedom between Catholics and Protestants. Today, that history shines brightly in the extravagent Belgian Cathedrals and the white washed walls of Dutch churches.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.Eat waffles</b></span><br />
Definitely a must for any traveler to Belgium. To be quite honest, you can find these sugar coated waffles throughout Europe, but in Belgium, you get them fresh and for a Euro each. Talk about a good reason for needing a dentist after your European vacation.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v5IHS2nk2Jo/V1EJDIr7dCI/AAAAAAAACsk/tdYk62szdOIsq0pwQrZ28sjYkMAy3vQjgCKgB/s1600/IMG_3652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v5IHS2nk2Jo/V1EJDIr7dCI/AAAAAAAACsk/tdYk62szdOIsq0pwQrZ28sjYkMAy3vQjgCKgB/s640/IMG_3652.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Eat Frites</b></span><br />
Alright, so these are literally just french fries put in some weird paper holder and covered in mayonnaise and ketchup, but there's something about eating french fries, in the place where they came from. And don't worry, you will look a little strange eating the big pile of fries as elites walk past you in suits, but it's all part of the experience.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Take pics with the peeing statues (Manneken Pis, Jeanneke Pis)</b></span><br />
This number is important because there are a couple important things to know other than you should see the statue. The first is there are TWO statues! The first is the famous one of a little boy peeing, from whence the legend really comes. The second is a female version that was added in 1987. The other thing to keep in mind is that they dress up the statue throughout the week, he has hundreds of costumes, and they <a href="http://www.manneken-pis.be/en/" target="_blank">even post a calendar</a>. The last thing to keep in mind is that sometimes throughout the year they will hook the statue up to beer kegs and yes, you can drink out of the peeing statue. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F91LuSJuWBA/V1EJDlszeDI/AAAAAAAACsk/tOP2MQoWb_wWdAk3wvJqxt4sepUvLYL7QCKgB/s1600/IMG_3641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F91LuSJuWBA/V1EJDlszeDI/AAAAAAAACsk/tOP2MQoWb_wWdAk3wvJqxt4sepUvLYL7QCKgB/s640/IMG_3641.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.Visit WWI sites</b></span><br />
There are quite a few WWI sites to visit as Belgium landed square on the lines of the trenches. From Mons to Ypres, if you're battlefield hunting, this is the place to be.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.Ghent Cathedral & Castle</b></span><br />
Both of these are architectural marvels and beautiful elements of this ancient town. The castle is one of the best preserved large moats left over from returning crusaders. Its thick, stone walls are testament to its fortitude and strength.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6.Meuse Valley</b></span><br />
Perhaps most famous to Americans as the object of the German counteroffensive at the Battle of the Bulge, this important industrial zone and river has long been an important trading router into and out of Europe. One of the prettier cities in this area is Dinant, which has been rebuilt after shelling from American troops trying to dislodge Germans housed in the town.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7.Climb the hill of Waterloo</b></span><br />
Here the great Napoleon was finally vanquished. Come and reminisce what the world might have looked like had that battle gone differently. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OS-CmwrpDss/V1EJDz-p2II/AAAAAAAACsk/RSnJgEmKCkEqsrqU3CtLiP43EQmdZey0QCKgB/s1600/belgium-waterloo_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OS-CmwrpDss/V1EJDz-p2II/AAAAAAAACsk/RSnJgEmKCkEqsrqU3CtLiP43EQmdZey0QCKgB/s640/belgium-waterloo_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8.Walk the old town of Antwerp</b></span><br />
Antwerp is one of those old European cities that it is easy to simply become lost in an bygone era. The old stone bridges and tight cobblestone streets transport you back in time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N9ZJaAiTAVQ/V1EJDhqcHlI/AAAAAAAACsk/xGKc8dhFiXI7-kopasguBfQvywk6XabswCKgB/s1600/IMG_3664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N9ZJaAiTAVQ/V1EJDhqcHlI/AAAAAAAACsk/xGKc8dhFiXI7-kopasguBfQvywk6XabswCKgB/s640/IMG_3664.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
<br /></div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-32525234311109257122016-06-02T14:48:00.000-07:002016-06-02T14:48:36.968-07:00The Top 14 Things to See & Do in Italy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AP8jDHob3zI/V1CnGgFF6kI/AAAAAAAACqA/Be4B_WHVro0wkZZQZIdlhvhuuEQtHVKBACLcB/s1600/top10italy.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AP8jDHob3zI/V1CnGgFF6kI/AAAAAAAACqA/Be4B_WHVro0wkZZQZIdlhvhuuEQtHVKBACLcB/s1600/top10italy.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.Eat....well, anywhere</b></span><br />
I really don't think you can go wrong eating at just about any restaurant in Italy. The rich buttery flavor of the pasta and delectably salty, cured meats make Italy's cuisine a destination in itself. A little known fact is that before the 19th century, Italy's cuisine was as fractured as its many vying states. Food became one of the unifying aspects of building the Italian nation, and my oh my did they do a good job, but because of this, there are still pockets where different foods are more common. The north is better at curing and doing meats and cheeses, the south is better at pasta and seafood. That being said, you're likely to have an amazing meal wherever you go. But if you want a real authentic Italian experience, find a Italian home restaurant. These are literally restaurants that are done out of a family's home, and they are amazing. Make sure to order at least a taste of almost everything on the menu. You won't be disappointed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gduD-Ap8AWc/V1Ce_e123fI/AAAAAAAACo4/W4t3H7cohDU-5cMXo1nBdAjUr2Sdf7EnACLcB/s1600/IMG_3841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gduD-Ap8AWc/V1Ce_e123fI/AAAAAAAACo4/W4t3H7cohDU-5cMXo1nBdAjUr2Sdf7EnACLcB/s640/IMG_3841.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Take a week in Tuscany</b></span><br />
This comes from the advice of one of my Italian friends. He said "take a week in Tuscany, it will change your life." If you've seen the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, you probably already have seen how it will do this. The slow casual Italian lifestyle is extremely evident in the rolling countryside amidst the vast vineyards and cosy villas. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J91PafQDwww/V1CiXLUQ-1I/AAAAAAAACpE/bs7_S87n0Occ7T8nKOHV2wdgCKA1C1CCgCLcB/s1600/480691_4645831976340_1813412478_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J91PafQDwww/V1CiXLUQ-1I/AAAAAAAACpE/bs7_S87n0Occ7T8nKOHV2wdgCKA1C1CCgCLcB/s640/480691_4645831976340_1813412478_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Visit Cinque Terre</b></span><br />
The famous five cities. This region isn't the greatest for its food or its beaches, but these beautiful cities are all about the view. Not only is the trip to Cinque Terre unforgettable (And you'll really come to understand why no one before the modern era was really able to control the northern areas of Italy). From the rocky shores, to the thick forests and rolling hills, the five painted cities transport you to a new world.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-shWbw2Drf0M/V1Ci_DNL1uI/AAAAAAAACpQ/rMF4mlQmjEQq2wCIJ0PEGvlmDJdUAd4eQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-shWbw2Drf0M/V1Ci_DNL1uI/AAAAAAAACpQ/rMF4mlQmjEQq2wCIJ0PEGvlmDJdUAd4eQCLcB/s640/IMG_3861.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.Relax on the Amalfi Coast</b></span><br />
Much like the coastline of Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast is famous for its beautiful hilltop villages and lovely coast. But unlike Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast is a bustling hub of the relaxers and sun bathers that just want to relax by the seashore or anchored in some cove in a yacht. The Amalfi Coast has everything that Cinque Terre doesn't in terms of swimming, sandy beaches, and great food and wine. What it lacks, however, is the unique colorful charm of the five cities. It is also much closer to Rome, and therefore, much much more crowded.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.Take a gondola ride in Venice, perhaps during the Carnival of Venice</b></span><br />
Venice is probably my favorite city in all of Italy, but it ranks down on the list just thanks to its sheer notoriety. If you're going to Italy and not planning on going to on a gondola ride, what is wrong with you? So it goes without much saying that this amazing city should rank on your list. Not only are the canals fascinating, but the feel of the city is unmatched in just about anywhere else in Europe. The tight city streets everywhere you go and the beautiful landmark views set this city apart. And if you're there in February, make sure to plan time for the festival. This is Venice's famous mask carnival, complete with a masquerade ball.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JX0FLF3V9bw/V1CkDHa8MyI/AAAAAAAACpc/QrZd3iZm8Xsy0TmueTiyfElAd931gAUJwCLcB/s1600/DSC05722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JX0FLF3V9bw/V1CkDHa8MyI/AAAAAAAACpc/QrZd3iZm8Xsy0TmueTiyfElAd931gAUJwCLcB/s640/DSC05722.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_A48kja4Bc/V1CorBkYpuI/AAAAAAAACqM/5LkWu91V59k6s--oFEQlRoeJwhD7GjoDQCLcB/s1600/DSC05795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B_A48kja4Bc/V1CorBkYpuI/AAAAAAAACqM/5LkWu91V59k6s--oFEQlRoeJwhD7GjoDQCLcB/s640/DSC05795.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6.Visit the Vatican Museum</b></span><br />
Few museums can truly rival the Vatican's grand museum in terms of antiquities. If you don't believe me just look at all the nations filing complaints against the museum to have their antiquities returned (of course the Vatican files its own return requests as well). One large problem with the museum, however, is that most people go to see the Sistine Chapel, which is located at the very end of the museum, and there are signs throughout the museum that say Sistine Chapel - this way. Of course, really that means, here is the route to see the entire museum and the last space will be the chapel. I say that is bad because you keep thinking you are about to stumble upon the chapel and become increasingly disappointed as one room yields to another room of antiquities and art. If you are prepared for this, however, you can spend hours admiring and studying the past before you finally reach the chapel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BRJrK4ofQaM/V1CkpwDnVLI/AAAAAAAACpo/eReUzj330JkQhNlJT_YngqM9THt5Hho-QCLcB/s1600/DSC06277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BRJrK4ofQaM/V1CkpwDnVLI/AAAAAAAACpo/eReUzj330JkQhNlJT_YngqM9THt5Hho-QCLcB/s640/DSC06277.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7.See the David in Florence</b></span><br />
Ok, so there is a lot more to do in Florence than just see the David statue, but the statue is one of the most famous antiquities in the city. And besides visiting the Duomo in Florence, there are many other great aspects to this city from the perfectly preserved roofs, to the tiny streets. Take time to enjoy Florence.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8.Take a jet ski on Lake Como</b></span><br />
I'm not even sure you can take a jet ski on the lake, but they did it in Top Gear, so why not try? This beautiful lake, however, is one of the great sites in all of Italy. With beautiful villas perched on the sides of the lake it really looks like the stuff of fairy tales.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9.Wander the ruins of Pompeii</b></span><br />
This ranks relatively highly on the list thanks to the many tours that leave from Rome to reach the city. Walk back in history to see a perfectly preserved Roman city, but don't wait too long, rumors are that the city is beginning to decay from lack of funding.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10.Hike the Dolomites</b></span><br />
Visit the great UNESCO site of Val di Funes. This area of Italy is a little bit more Austrian (<a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/06/Top-10-Austria.html" target="_blank">See my top 10 in Austria</a>) than Italian, but the amazing view and smell of the mountain air makes this trip well worth your time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_19naxHyOzM/V1ClRnlG1UI/AAAAAAAACpw/0JpLLXWlbQQZG3aNk5PDPyxZ_uousWupwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_19naxHyOzM/V1ClRnlG1UI/AAAAAAAACpw/0JpLLXWlbQQZG3aNk5PDPyxZ_uousWupwCLcB/s640/IMG_3046.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>11.Ski the Alps</b></span><br />
Italy's resorts do not quite match the scale and size of those in Austria, France or Switzerland, but they do have some of the most beautiful views in the world. You also can't really go wrong with skiing days and sipping Italian wine and eating Italian cuisine at night.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>12.Visit the Monastery of the Franciscans</b></span><br />
This grand city is still a great pilgrimage site for Catholic faithful. While the basilica here seems a little excessive for the principles of the Franciscans it is still a marvel to behold and being not far from Rome, this is a great cultural visit for any interested in Italy's tortured past.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>13.Discover the forgotten Rome in Ravenna</b></span><br />
This is another site that almost never receives any mention unless you are a huge history buff. This now forgotten city lies near Venice, and was once the capital of the Roman empire. It was moved here before the sack of Rome, and hence Rome was allowed to be sacked in a sense. Ravenna became the cultural capital and home to some of the most interesting and guilded artwork in all of Italy. This is home to the cathedral built in honor of the Byzantine rule Justinian, and the artwork is not only meticulous and well-preserved, but few visitors reach here. If you want a gem hidden off the beaten track, this is it.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>14.Don't forget the Leaning Tower</b></span><br />
I hardly need to mention this, but if you're in Florence, might as well make the trip to the leaning tower as well. While this certainly is not my top choice in all of Italy. If you are a boaster. See my list on the <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/05/7-types-people-travel.html" target="_blank">7 Types of People who Travel</a>. This is definitely a place for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-89551981207040565812016-06-01T14:25:00.001-07:002016-06-02T10:14:14.996-07:00Top 10 Things to See & Do in Austria<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6iURZgf4_Zk/V09Sj_x_cPI/AAAAAAAACnM/JvPc9NR3tCArOFmC64VBOKXHIvHcCn69QCLcB/s1600/top10austria.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6iURZgf4_Zk/V09Sj_x_cPI/AAAAAAAACnM/JvPc9NR3tCArOFmC64VBOKXHIvHcCn69QCLcB/s1600/top10austria.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.Hike the hills of Hallstatt</b></span><br />
This amazing hilltop villages should arguably be one of the top destinations in Europe. It has a little bit of everything for <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/05/7-types-people-travel.html" target="_blank">every type of traveler.</a> High mountains to climb and lots of nature to get lost in and a huge lake to swim in for the adventurer. It even has a beach for those who want to relax. And those who are there for the view? Well, let's just say they will not be disappointed in the slightest. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9bKn050z2XE/V088W333x5I/AAAAAAAACmI/9aTtU-MXnPY1ziJ5Liliru4EwiOBq6FvQCLcB/s1600/1-640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9bKn050z2XE/V088W333x5I/AAAAAAAACmI/9aTtU-MXnPY1ziJ5Liliru4EwiOBq6FvQCLcB/s640/1-640.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Visit the Dolomites</b></span><br />
The Dolomites kind of belong to both Italy and Austria, but to be sure, even the Italian side seems more German. The Austrian side doesn't offer quite the same stark views for example of the Val di Funes, but it has quite a few great views of its own, and many many places to relax, drink wine, and dip your toes in the cold mountain streams.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iG24eBVRRNY/V088fpDWqyI/AAAAAAAACmM/wtzJHHweB_g-PsLb-D6HUIYLDP2Jw3lUwCLcB/s1600/IMG_2147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iG24eBVRRNY/V088fpDWqyI/AAAAAAAACmM/wtzJHHweB_g-PsLb-D6HUIYLDP2Jw3lUwCLcB/s640/IMG_2147.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Tour a museum in Vienna</b></span><br />
Vienna has long been the home of many great painters, writers, and artists. It is still home to many of the finest art galleries in Europe and it is here that you will find Klimt's famous "the kiss" painting at the Belvedere Gallery. <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.Ski the Alps</b></span><br />
It's hard to really differentiate ski resorts in the Alps. Not many really have the sheer drop of mountains like in the Western US, but this is because you really get the feeling that you are on top of and at the same time in the mountains. Peaks rise up all around you. It's a spectacular thing to behold, and Austrian resorts are king at this. Some of the best places to go are Angertal and Lech Zuers.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.Witness the odd St. Nicolas Festival (Krampusnacht)</b></span><br />
This has got to be one of the greatest world festivals just because of the sheer terrifying nature of the Krampus. No one really knows where Krampus comes from, but many think it's the left over version of a pagan deity from when Christianity began mixing with paganism. In the festival, Krampus is a devil with chains that comes and scares bad children, while St. Nick walks around giving gifts to good children. This festival goes throughout much of Central Europe, but nowhere is Krampus as terrifying as in the Alps, where the festival usually takes place at night with large fires. It's a photographer's and a well, demon's dream.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6.See the Opera in Vienna</b></span><br />
If you've seen the most recent Mission Impossible, you caught a glimpse of one of the most prestigious art events in all the world. Vienna's opera is the premier stage for opera. Nothing else really compares, and the tickets show it. Opera tickets here can be ridiculously expensive. Make sure to dress to the t as well. This is no minor league event.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZuZET9X1KhQ/V09M4eXiTPI/AAAAAAAACm0/IAJotJDN4b8YeziZx4PeYwZW6N1i7wt8gCLcB/s1600/DSC05397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZuZET9X1KhQ/V09M4eXiTPI/AAAAAAAACm0/IAJotJDN4b8YeziZx4PeYwZW6N1i7wt8gCLcB/s640/DSC05397.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7.Get tickets to the Spanish Stables</b></span><br />
Ok, so these Andalusian stallion training grounds are so famous that you can see horses coming out of them touring throughout the world, but there is something magical to being in the ancient building, where it is standing room only and watching these magnificent creatures perform. you feel like royalty, although if you didn't get a seat, maybe like a third cousin of the king and queen.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6-GTPuU8pyA/V09NAGnb5yI/AAAAAAAACm4/qxC_ggM3YzwLRsOLsmZyJ94gsLDQ7gDIwCLcB/s1600/DSC05370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6-GTPuU8pyA/V09NAGnb5yI/AAAAAAAACm4/qxC_ggM3YzwLRsOLsmZyJ94gsLDQ7gDIwCLcB/s400/DSC05370.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8.Walk the gardens of Salzburg</b></span><br />
Want to listen to the hills sing to you? Well the first step is to find the beautiful gardens of Salzburg. The gardens of Mirabell Palace was made famous during the Sound of Music, but even without that this city is a magical diamond encircled by hills. It is also a great launching point to see castles in southern Germany or Hallstatt.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpJ2hYVdOkA/V08_uAEYUGI/AAAAAAAACmg/cC_evjTSGVMofFFBSab4c4APfe8v1F6NwCKgB/s1600/IMG_1637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpJ2hYVdOkA/V08_uAEYUGI/AAAAAAAACmg/cC_evjTSGVMofFFBSab4c4APfe8v1F6NwCKgB/s640/IMG_1637.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9.Bike Schlogener-Schlinge</b></span><br />
This is the Austrian version of Horseshoe Bend in Arizona. This huge bend in the Danube really is quite the beautiful site, and one of the things of the beaten track in Austria.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10.Tour Hitler's Eagle's Nest</b></span><br />
You couldn't really get a full experience of Austria without visiting the Alps, and why not make the place you visit the great Eagle's Nest at Berghof? One of the most portrayed spots of Hitler's residences and for good reason. Not only is it beautiful, but he spent the most time in this aloof nest. Recently it has appeared Amazon's Man in the High Castle, and in HBO's Band of Brothers.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-68471021728175739362016-05-31T14:06:00.002-07:002016-05-31T14:06:33.661-07:005 Questions to Ask Before Planning Your Trip<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6cNN0HQvT0/V03uJGdQmiI/AAAAAAAACjE/IlJaXr9IMCc5egQOgxQSTN3g0FU9N73iACLcB/s1600/5Questions.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6cNN0HQvT0/V03uJGdQmiI/AAAAAAAACjE/IlJaXr9IMCc5egQOgxQSTN3g0FU9N73iACLcB/s1600/5Questions.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So you've decided you want to vacation in Europe. Maybe you've heard great things about one city or another, but you're about to spend a lot of money on a long flight, and you want to make it count. Here are some of the things to consider on deciding where to go on this long trip.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1. Why are you going?</b></span><br />
The most common question I get from people is where should I go? My response is as equally general - why do you want to go? I can offer great details on places to go, but you will always be disappointed if you don't satisfy the real reason you're traveling, so let's be honest for a second why do you want to travel? And keep in mind that a lot of these come from unresolved issues in our lives, but that doesn't make the reason bad. Truth is - life's hard, and we travel to get away and enjoy it for a change. See my post about the 7 Types of People who Travel to see what kind of traveler you are.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Who are you traveling with?</b></span><br />
This question goes along with the first. You need to not only understand your reasons for traveling but those of your partner or group. This is one of the easiest ways to completely destroy a vacation if you haven't communicated properly to your fellow travelers. Personally, I have had this happen on a few occasions, where I have planned a great trip, but haven't communicated it effectively and have paid the price because I didn't plan for the other person.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, don't let a little friction between colleagues or fellow travelers get you down. People travel for different reasons, and sometimes the greatest thing you can do is be open to that fact. I really think travel is all about trying new things and opening new horizons, sometimes the easiest way to do that is being open to the ideas of people you're traveling with or of travelers you meet on the way.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Do you think you'll come back?</b></span><br />
Another important questions on where you should go and what you should do. Do you want your vacation to be high paced? If you are not planning on returning, it probably should be so you can see all you can. If you plan on coming back, then you should definitely take more time and go to fewer places. This can also work in the way of countries and continent. Do you plan on coming back to Europe? What about Spain? I would say hit as many places as you can the first time you go, the second time you can really think about this and go to your favorite country and on and on.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.What time of year are you going?</b></span><br />
Most people don't really think about this since part of the problem is you found vacation time right then, or you found a really good flight deal, but this can really change where you plan to go on a trip.<br />
<br />
For example, let's say I found a great travel deal to fly to Paris is early December and without thinking, I bought it. Well, Paris is kind of ugly in early December. So I'd go ahead and buy a cheap plane ticket from there to somewhere farther north or to mountains where they'd already have snow.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZPg0qIRxRc/V038sbZSIZI/AAAAAAAACks/QrtZN-ff_QYcJ-EYAR-LRnBNT92sbAhzACLcB/s1600/DSC03798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZPg0qIRxRc/V038sbZSIZI/AAAAAAAACks/QrtZN-ff_QYcJ-EYAR-LRnBNT92sbAhzACLcB/s400/DSC03798.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Your trip might look like this</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.How do you want to travel?</b></span><br />
Another usually neglected aspect of travel is how you want to get around. People often just think well I can take a bus, or rent a car, or take taxis, but figure out how you want to travel because maybe you're going through Switzerland, and it really is worth spending money on a train pass because you want to take the awesome train through the Alps. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmT9q4f3vAA/V0367tclWcI/AAAAAAAACkg/yHnXD6ClyNUjzbd_0s_DKueeCV0HKWLEgCLcB/s1600/DSC00869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmT9q4f3vAA/V0367tclWcI/AAAAAAAACkg/yHnXD6ClyNUjzbd_0s_DKueeCV0HKWLEgCLcB/s400/DSC00869.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-4846213542207316132016-05-31T13:54:00.002-07:002016-05-31T13:54:33.269-07:00The 7 Types of People who Travel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PPAerbWGGEI/V03t84Q3ZdI/AAAAAAAACi8/YtD_zn2twE4OfrnbQBqXDKFWzhFq3BStgCLcB/s1600/7types.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PPAerbWGGEI/V03t84Q3ZdI/AAAAAAAACi8/YtD_zn2twE4OfrnbQBqXDKFWzhFq3BStgCLcB/s1600/7types.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For those of you who are avid travelers, it's likely that you've encountered every one of these types throughout your travels. Knowing where you fall in the list and why you are traveling, however, can be one of the most important steps to planning a trip. See my post about the 5 Questions to Ask yourself before Planning a Trip to find more useful tips. This is written for travelers to Europe, but is common around the world. You're likely to self-identify with many of these traits of each, keep in mind that a lot of these come from unresolved issues in our lives, but that doesn't make the reason bad. Truth is - life's hard, and we travel to get away and enjoy it for a change.</div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>1-The Boaster-You want to say you've been somewhere</b>-This is probably the most common reason we hear from travelers because this type is so vocal, but it is something most don't really want to admit to themselves. We want to say we travel because they enjoy cultures, etc. but all too often, we travel because we just plain want to say we've been somewhere. We want to come home and talk up a place with friends to show how cultured or traveled we are, and as much as I hate to admit it, I think everyone does this at some point. If, however, this is your main reason for traveling, stick to main cities, and maybe go to a smaller city at some point. So for example, go to Rome and maybe take a trip down to Pompeii. Or, if you're a niche traveler, like a war buff, for example, go to all the WWI or II sites in Europe. <br />
<br />
Make sure to have that big purpose throughout your travels so you can show off later to your friends with how much you know about this or that because you've been there. My guess is, however, if you are one of these people, you probably already know exactly the kind of trip you want to go on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xEk_mckCny4/V031qRvc6uI/AAAAAAAACjY/1Xn5BoiA3c0PZvqzLDSQw4LkbOpJHG_YACLcB/s1600/IMG_9904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xEk_mckCny4/V031qRvc6uI/AAAAAAAACjY/1Xn5BoiA3c0PZvqzLDSQw4LkbOpJHG_YACLcB/s640/IMG_9904.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>2-The Assurer-You want to say to yourself that you've been somewhere-</b>I think this kind of traveler is completely different than the first type. The first, you're checking things off to your friends as a status symbol. The second, you're checking things off as kind of a testament of life. You want to go somewhere not to tell people about it, but to just reassure yourself like a monument to your own life. A way to find out if you're this type of traveler is ask if you don't go somewhere, will you regret it? My mom, for example, went to Paris when she was young and didn't go in the Eiffel Tower. She spent years wishing she had gone. Finally, years later, she went back and was able to go to the top, and she loved it! I, on the other hand, didn't go the tower the first three times I was in Paris, and I didn't regret it one bit, but then I finally went with her, and I loved the little cafe halfway up(<a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/05/Top-11-France.html" target="_blank">In case you want to look at top things to do in France</a>), but still didn't see any reason to go all the way up. So we did the same thing, and we both enjoyed it, but for different reasons.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4pjNk2sfYuw/V0359OdLwTI/AAAAAAAACkY/UHHib4lErg4I5y72GNKQEHvPl7J-OOghgCLcB/s1600/IMG_7366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4pjNk2sfYuw/V0359OdLwTI/AAAAAAAACkY/UHHib4lErg4I5y72GNKQEHvPl7J-OOghgCLcB/s400/IMG_7366.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>3-The Adventurer-You want adventure-</b>If this is not you, you are sure to encounter quite a few of these throughout your trip in Europe. These are the ones that really want to get away. They want to party, to run with the bulls, to white water raft, to cliff dive, etc. If this is you, your trip shouldn't be too hard to plan, pick the hardest partying spots in Europe like <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/05/top-11-spain.html" target="_blank">Ibiza</a>, <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/05/prague.html" target="_blank">Prague</a>, Croatia, Greece, St. Tropez, Monaco and go have some fun. If this is not you, keep an eye out for these in your group if you're traveling with a group. They can be a lot of fun, but they can get bored and have a horrible trip if you spend your days in art galleries.<br />
<br />
The adventurer can also be the sort of people that just want to try new things. They want to eat new foods, climb new heights, and just all around get lost. This type of adventurer can be a little different than the above and you may need to plan differently by allowing opportunities for all the new experiences travel affords.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uUhKfnKqm6g/V034uhMEIQI/AAAAAAAACkI/BJyKhdUeJEIh0VfnzdfidOoHTTaCswTggCLcB/s1600/1053100_10100970375860969_1737098698_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uUhKfnKqm6g/V034uhMEIQI/AAAAAAAACkI/BJyKhdUeJEIh0VfnzdfidOoHTTaCswTggCLcB/s640/1053100_10100970375860969_1737098698_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>4-The Connoisseur-You want culture</b>-Perhaps you are a wine connoisseur or a great foodie. You should plan your trip around your tastes. Maybe you like to visit art galleries, maybe you just want complete immersion in a culture. If this is you, then you're trip should focus on that. You want to become Spanish, stop worrying about what city you're going to and focus on talking Spanish with Spaniards, eating like a Spaniard, spend your whole trip in Spain. You want food, find the greatest places to eat, figure out foods to try etc.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EXAbVHyO98k/V0311sQSlSI/AAAAAAAACjc/cdLhWtudYoYmCK9gDty__9iYWkQBu5MdACLcB/s1600/IMG_7840_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EXAbVHyO98k/V0311sQSlSI/AAAAAAAACjc/cdLhWtudYoYmCK9gDty__9iYWkQBu5MdACLcB/s640/IMG_7840_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>5-The Collector-You're a collector-</b>We often think of these as trinket collectors. The ones who go places and always return with tons of things to remind themselves of the trip. This, however, can also include photographers, who want something of their own of all the places they've been. If this is you, the more places you go, the better. Get into photography, if you haven't already (<a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/p/photography-guide.html" target="_blank">Click here for my Photography Guide</a>). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XaHbOVJUu6w/V032PCGmEyI/AAAAAAAACjg/O_-sFa0iWy4EdIKmuU11FmTGiifSfV4FwCLcB/s1600/cute%2Bgirls%2Bfine%2Barts%2Bpalace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XaHbOVJUu6w/V032PCGmEyI/AAAAAAAACjg/O_-sFa0iWy4EdIKmuU11FmTGiifSfV4FwCLcB/s640/cute%2Bgirls%2Bfine%2Barts%2Bpalace.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<b>6.The Relaxer-You want to lie on a beach in the sun all day-</b>This is the guy/girl who works a 90 hour work week for his bank or consulting firm and just wants to sit out in the sun, enjoying glass pools, ivory coasts, and hot sand in their toes. If this is you, don't worry one bit about doing too much during your trip, vacations can be exhausting, read my post about the <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/05/dark-side-travel.html" target="_blank">Dark Side of Travel</a> if you don't believe me. Be ready to pay the extra money to make your vacation run smoothly. Book a travel agent, get a fancy hotel, and don't be ashamed to go to one town and spend your whole time there. Take a break, you deserve it.<br />
<br />
If you're not a relaxer, beware having one in your group. You can tell because they won't really want to plan. They'll say things like "I'm ok with whatever." And if plans go south on a day of, they're likely to say they're fine with hanging out in the hotel room for the day. Don't just ditch them in a hotel room! They're not ok, what they really mean is, why don't you just plan something chill for the day, like eating at a cafe, or go to the beach if it's close enough. But don't give up on them because they don't want to travel across town to see a museum, maybe you need a break too, but you can take a break without putting a halt to travel. You may not think this situation will arise, but get married, and you'll notice an extreme increase in the appearance of the relaxer.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o2flwap_85Y/V033upItL0I/AAAAAAAACj4/GzU6RIO6QtY5w3LmYLBcqLV_75ubEuI3wCLcB/s1600/IMG_4001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o2flwap_85Y/V033upItL0I/AAAAAAAACj4/GzU6RIO6QtY5w3LmYLBcqLV_75ubEuI3wCLcB/s640/IMG_4001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>7-The Newbie-This is your first trip</b>-If this is your first time planning a trip, the above reasons may be completely confusing for you because you kind of want to travel for all of those reasons. You want to come home and tell your friends, you want souvenirs, you want to eat and taste the culture, have adventure and relaxation, so where do you begin? Well if this is you, make your plan flexible. Make a plan that can change and be willing to try new things when they come up.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-56468771084609641102016-05-31T08:44:00.000-07:002016-05-31T08:44:49.574-07:00The Dark Side of Travel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
The Dark Side of Travel</h2>
<div>
Once upon a time, I had the great idea to go on a trip with my sister in Norway. We would visit my remaining family there, see the sights, and have an all around good time. She lived far away and Norway just seemed to be the best place to meet in the middle. And it really was, we went and had a great time traveling the beautiful country, spending time with family, and even a magical night watching the great Northern Lights dance in the sky. We returned home content and with hundreds of great photos that I still love to look at today.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXFzkknXuNs/Vr-DriB_gYI/AAAAAAAABu4/hdtgCXBsTkc/s1600/IMG_6217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aXFzkknXuNs/Vr-DriB_gYI/AAAAAAAABu4/hdtgCXBsTkc/s640/IMG_6217.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You might be asking yourself, I thought this was about the "dark side" of travel, and it is. You see, unfortunately, travel often becomes a much rosier idea once posted on Facebook or told to friends once the trip ends. And often times that rosy appeal will lead many astray into wishing for things that travel just really isn't. The most common example of this is that travel is an "easy vacation."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Anyone who really believes this is really just kidding themselves. The stress of packing, planning, saving, and staying safe on a trip alone makes even the most relaxing trips a burden. Add the fact that on many of these trips you are completely out of your comfort zone going to a new place, stressed with looking after multiple people, where to stay, where to eat, and what to do, along with maybe renting a car, or using public transport for hours on end perhaps with family and kids. Indeed, this is why many would rather just buy a new toy than travel. Buy a boat, buy a new tv, a snowmachine, the list goes on and on. It reminds me of a time when I was a ski instructor.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One day I was assigned to teach a couple of elderly women, who were only there because they had promised their husbands they would do it once. They struggled for a small portion of the day and gave up before ever getting off the bunny hill and told me that shopping was a much better use of their time and money than skiing any day. As they left, I couldn't help but think that they'd missed the point, the beauty, the magic...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So what is the magic of my Norwegian story? The truth is that I arrived in Norway a few days before my sister. It was February and I expected layers of snow and the beautiful city of Oslo to await me. Instead, I arrived to the warmest winter the Norwegians had had in 80 years. Rain drenched streets awaited me as I exited public transport and wandered around looking for my hostel. I spent the first day alone, wandering the dreary streets. I took a bus to an old viking museum and saw a few Arctic explorer sights, but deep down I was disappointed. Everything looked drab and dark. The Arctic weather I had expected had disappointed me. Later that day, I returned to the streets of Oslo to meet my now pregnant sister (she had become pregnant after we'd bought the tickets). She looked very tired and stressed from having to spend a night in the airport in Qatar, but her bad luck was just beginning.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fccWJURLTJA/Vr-NF4oVqlI/AAAAAAAABvM/L-hfHcoLvTw/s1600/IMG_6345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fccWJURLTJA/Vr-NF4oVqlI/AAAAAAAABvM/L-hfHcoLvTw/s640/IMG_6345.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We went back to the hostel and she met her loud, obnoxious roommates (gender separated rooms). Since it was winter, all the museums had already closed, so we wandered for some time before stopping at a restaurant where I introduced her to Norwegian prices (Welcome to the $20 big mac). But we weren't looking to eat a big mac, we wanted true Norwegian food, so I got a whale steak (probably the worst thing I've ever tasted except for maybe Russian холодец). And the bill was just short of $50. We ended the night by seeing a ballet and going back to sleep.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Of course, my sister's night was horrible. We had to wake up early, and her roommates made noise all night, plus jet lag was killing us both. We took one more flight to Trondheim to see our family and our trip took a decided turn for the better. They took time off to show us all round the sites, to show us the house our great great grandfather had built. We drove through the great fjords and ate fresh salmon and brunost. Life was great. But, of course, the trip was just beginning.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LFcH837zetY/Vr-NNw7XiXI/AAAAAAAABvo/60KjIb-8xKo/s1600/IMG_6494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LFcH837zetY/Vr-NNw7XiXI/AAAAAAAABvo/60KjIb-8xKo/s640/IMG_6494.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2kRWRnNoNw/Vr-NOfxUjcI/AAAAAAAABvs/XP6M7XwNN28/s1600/IMG_6499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p2kRWRnNoNw/Vr-NOfxUjcI/AAAAAAAABvs/XP6M7XwNN28/s640/IMG_6499.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fsayU6pDeTo/Vr-NPC9BQRI/AAAAAAAABvw/uzBktI-ewLM/s1600/IMG_6520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fsayU6pDeTo/Vr-NPC9BQRI/AAAAAAAABvw/uzBktI-ewLM/s640/IMG_6520.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Soon we were renting a car, and heading on a 10 hour drive to the Arctic isle of Lofoten. It was one of my dreams to visit this beautiful island, but we soon had trouble. My sister was still in the early stage of morning sickness. 10 hours in a car with her little brother would be hard enough normally, but add that she had a keenly acute sense of smell that was especially against my deodorant and the 10 hours turned into probably her favorite drive of her life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jJqUzXLckIc/Vr-NLQVfLFI/AAAAAAAABvY/9IzZGzwoqwM/s1600/IMG_6360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jJqUzXLckIc/Vr-NLQVfLFI/AAAAAAAABvY/9IzZGzwoqwM/s640/IMG_6360.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yjxAXPvY2Cg/Vr-NLcHOVlI/AAAAAAAABvU/v6c-Ot5tkBI/s1600/IMG_6392_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yjxAXPvY2Cg/Vr-NLcHOVlI/AAAAAAAABvU/v6c-Ot5tkBI/s640/IMG_6392_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YR_IpodVRtU/Vr-NKvpfnbI/AAAAAAAABvQ/LAFBrZHfYoE/s1600/IMG_6419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YR_IpodVRtU/Vr-NKvpfnbI/AAAAAAAABvQ/LAFBrZHfYoE/s640/IMG_6419.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6-zssd3pflQ/Vr-NL91gmaI/AAAAAAAABvc/TO0eZhZgbK8/s1600/IMG_6434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6-zssd3pflQ/Vr-NL91gmaI/AAAAAAAABvc/TO0eZhZgbK8/s640/IMG_6434.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What was worse, however, was that when we arrived in Lofoten, we found more drab and dark scenery, the snow sat on top of the mountains, but it barely reached to the plains. By now, the fragile harmony between siblings was starting to break, everything we tried to see was closed. All the winter activities were not available because of the lack of snow. We began quibbling over money, and to make it worse, it was cloudy our first night. No lights, no activities, no fun.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It got so bad, that I eventually split the last night from my sister to search for the Northern Lights alone. I drove miles and miles through the dark silent landscape until I reached the northern shore, and walked out in the darkness to the ragged shore. Far off, I could make out the shore of Svalbard, the land of the polar bears, and there I waited alone, on a dark, cold shore. I don't remember all my thoughts that night, but I remember being angry, scared, and alone. I remember doubting every reason there was to go on that trip, and thinking I would never see those Northern Lights. And then, just as I was about to turn to leave, I saw them start to bow over the horizon, they began to swirl and dance, but to my surprise, they were just white, in my camera they were green, but to me they looked white. I was confused, but things had changed.. Just like that, all the feelings I had had were replaced with a need to get my sister. I ran back to the car and drove back to our hotel on a cliff side beach. I don't think I'd realized how beautiful it was until that moment. I apologized and we drove back to the northern end. Eventually we found the perfect dark spot, nestled among mountainous peaks on our sides and a long empty road with just us underneath the great white lights. We watched for what seemed like hours, while another small car appeared and 6 crazy Italians popped out to enjoy the moment with us.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eojmMnPa430/Vr-NNfaqKbI/AAAAAAAABvk/xsZsnaluEfw/s1600/IMG_6474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eojmMnPa430/Vr-NNfaqKbI/AAAAAAAABvk/xsZsnaluEfw/s640/IMG_6474.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5mCXlR68Jg/Vr-NNTEcqJI/AAAAAAAABvg/JhMrc355oEU/s1600/IMG_6476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5mCXlR68Jg/Vr-NNTEcqJI/AAAAAAAABvg/JhMrc355oEU/s640/IMG_6476.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's almost strange to think back to how clearly I remember that moment, that sky, and the faces of the Italians we met. All standing in the cold, miles from home, strangers and yet not estranged. I chose to focus on that moment, but there were many other moments from that trip I could focus on that made the trip worthwhile. There were also moments, when I felt like it was a waste of time and money, and I could name moments during almost every trip I've gone on where the same thing happens. One of my friends told me once that he thinks the excitement for and the memory of traveling are much more fun than the actual time traveling, and I think he is in part right, but I also think there is something more to it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Is9SRP3zJns/Vr-PS-bB2AI/AAAAAAAABv8/IZ1PrX_D3sc/s1600/IMG_6422_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Is9SRP3zJns/Vr-PS-bB2AI/AAAAAAAABv8/IZ1PrX_D3sc/s640/IMG_6422_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Why then should you spend oftentimes thousands of dollars of your hard-earned cash on something so fickle and fleeting as travel? Perhaps because travel reminds us what it means to be human. To exit our comfort zone, to learn new things, to create new memories. Because let's be honest, the person that we are is really just our memories. In the end, few of those memories will be about that once new tv. Perhaps it's because travel reminds us that we can't take everything with us. We want to remember that we were at that spot, we want, as if, to own it in some way, but we can't, we have to let it go and return home. Perhaps it is because it reminds us that the world is not our own, and indeed nothing we "own" is really ours. It reminds us in a very Tocquevillian sense that the world is shared, and we have a responsibility to others just as they have a responsibility to us. And perhaps that is the true beauty, the magic of travel. Just as my sister and I discovered as we stood in that dark open expanse staring at the heavens with eyes that were not just our own.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-90174526795287725072016-05-31T08:42:00.004-07:002016-05-31T08:42:47.030-07:00The Golden Rules of a stingy, Euro traveler<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SUGjXx1IsTM/Vje_eEaZOeI/AAAAAAAABUE/yyAcaD5428M/s1600/IMG_1251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SUGjXx1IsTM/Vje_eEaZOeI/AAAAAAAABUE/yyAcaD5428M/s640/IMG_1251.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<h2 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</h2>
<h2 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CFr25PsWQcQ/VbCh3K0AGKI/AAAAAAAAAeM/imObsQxAF3k/s1600/IMG_1107_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">The Golden Rules of a Stingy, Euro Traveler</a></h2>
<h2 class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</h2>
<br />
When home in the states, I often hear complaints about how expensive Europe is, or worse, people automatically assume that just because you went on vacation to Europe that you enjoy fritting away your money. In some cases, these can both be true and can be a good thing, that is if you actually have the money to frit away. If you don't, however, and have been thinking about a good cheap European vacation, this blog post is for you and comes from my substantial experience traveling as a horrendous stinge.<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Getting to Europe</u></h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The first, and perhaps, most important step to saving money in Europe is how you get there. Not only is this the most expensive one time payment of your trip, but it also can screw you over in later costs as well.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b>There is always a cheaper way! </b> </h3>
<br />
Just looked for flights and the cheapest one is $1800 round trip? I can promise you, unless you are flying for a single weekend in August, or are late in the game in booking your tickets, that you can find a cheaper price on another site or another day. Always check different sites for prices even if you are almost certain your site will be the cheapest. I use www.skyscanner.com as my go to for world travel, but Kayak, Expedia, Vayama, or a whole host of other sites are great to cross check. Also, when booking remember that sites keep track of when you visit their site(cookies), and they raise the price accordingly. One way to get around this is to use the incognito tab on your browser, but if you search for the same flight enough, you can still cause the flight to go up in price. If this happens, just chill for a few days. Prices aren't going to skyrocket in a week(well, unless you have a week before you leave), and after a few days, the price should settle back down again.<br />
<br />
Another great tip is to look into airlines like Norwegian, Iceland, and Turkish airlines, which aren't partners with many of these websites. They have really cheap flights to and from different hubs in the US and Europe, but you will oftentimes need to have a layover in Iceland, Turkey, or Norway, and I can think of worse things than a 24 hour stop in one of these sweet countries. Also, when you go this route, you can't be quite as flexible with dates as they only fly on certain days of the week.<br />
<br />
Also one great way to have a cheap flight is get a credit card with 30,000-50,000 extra miles and then use the miles to fly. It's simple and easy, and as long as you keep up on payments and cancel your card soon enough, it's a great idea.<br />
<br />
One last tip to booking a flight is usually premium prices are reached if you stay at least two weeks, but this isn't always the case, much more often it's dependent on when you fly. July and August are the most expensive for flying into Europe, same with over Christmas. There are often Groupon trips for really cheap, but they cover horrendous dates(early Dec, don't even dream that they'll have snow in Europe then). The cheapest time to go is in February, and if you're a skier, that might not be that bad of a time for you(My last ticket to Norway was $650 round trip).<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Location matters</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Not only do plane prices change depending on where you fly from and where you fly to, but there are inherent costs associated with your landing city. Most of these costs are associated with transportation to and from the city. Pay attention to the time of your flights, sometimes the reason tickets are so cheap is because no city transport goes that early or that late at night. You can guess why this would be problematic.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u>Once you're there</u></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-upQMF1QQwAE/VbdAF2WVEXI/AAAAAAAAAgE/j_TsnKU0U5I/s1600/IMG_1020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-upQMF1QQwAE/VbdAF2WVEXI/AAAAAAAAAgE/j_TsnKU0U5I/s640/IMG_1020.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Don't ever take a taxi or train (Unless you're stranded or in Eastern Europe....OR BOTH)</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here, I'm guessing I hit some nerves for some Euro travelers, who would say but taxis are great, and trains aren't that expensive. Once again this can be true. Late at night taxis can be the only option for transportation, and sometimes, like I said, in Eastern Europe, they can be extremely cheap as well. Of course, if you do take this route, follow normal taxi rules, pay attention to the ticker, use some official company, just be smart with it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As for trains, trains can be a great experience, especially if you plan to go through the Alps, BUT these great trains also carry steep charges. You can try to mitigate them by buying a country pass, but even then you pay an extra $20+ dollars per train ticket that you get on top of the cost of your pass. Also different countries charge different amounts for the same trip. I'll never forget the first time I took a train from Bratislava to Vienna(like a half hour to an hour ride) and it was 7 Euros to get to Vienna, but it then became 30 to get back to Bratislava. This is why I strongly recommend buses or cars, but if you insist on trains here are my tips:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
First of all, there are small companies joining the competition for trains in many countries such as France, Austria, Czech, Slovak Republics, etc. that offer limited room trains that you need to book beforehand. Oftentimes, these are bare-bottom prices and are a great option, but you need to plan and book them beforehand. Also, sadly, these still only offer limited routes, and so once you miss the train....well, let's just say, you become depressingly poor.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If these side companies are booked, some countries also offer pre-booked tickets for cheaper amounts that you can find on their websites if they are navigable, sometimes countries' train websites can be extremely difficult to understand, or worse, they just plain don't work(ahem C.R.)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That being said, price-wise, you're looking at costs like $100 for three hour trips in most of Western Europe. In the Alps that can go up even more. On the other hand, if you are in Eastern Europe, trains can be extremely cheap (say $10-15 for a three hour trip), and very worthwhile, but buses can still beat their costs.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Hence buses are my preferred mode of travel, but once again it depends on the country. Germany, UK, and Eastern Europe have good bus systems. France, Austria, and Italy on the other hand do not, so in those countries you will probably be forced to take trains.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Recently, however, there has also been an invasion of small scale airlines which fly for rock-bottom prices. But they charge an arm and a leg if you have almost any luggage or want to pick a seat, and then you add that you still have to get to and from the airport which oftentimes costs at least $20 and you might be better off taking a bus. (tip: speaking of luggage, sometimes you need to buy tickets for your luggage on trains and buses, but it's usually not much, just don't forget because you can be fined for not having one).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
All this said, my preferential mode of transport is just to rent a car. But once again there are all kinds of fees associated with car rentals. The easiest one to see is busier airports charge more per day, but many airports also charge extra fees, like a location fee to rent from Charles de Gaulle for $50, or an extra 4 Euros a day to use the car. Some charge mileage fees, etc. So be careful with that. It's also important to consider the extra costs to traveling by car. So for example gas is about $4.70/gal right now in Europe. But also remember that Europeans love their toll roads! And they can be extremely expensive(France) or not as expensive say in Italy(of course depends where you are, busier highways charge more). Also many countries like Switzerland require a vignette(like a car sticker) to drive the highways. In Switzerland this is $50 in other countries like Austria it is only $8 for a ten day vignette. Parking can also be problematic with a car, it makes staying in cheap hostels very difficult as few have parking spots. Usually in most cities parking is free after about 7 pm til about 8 am, but once again that means you either have to move it later or you'll have to pay for it then. Most parking garages charge about 20-30 Euros to park in the center. And of course there's always the prospect of wrecking the car or getting a ticket(they have speed cams in Europe, they are required to have signs before them to show you where they are, but if you're not watching it can be a $30-50 fine, which is what happened to me in Spain: saw a bright flash of light, got the ticket six months later)....Also don't forget to hide your things if you take a car, most rental hatchbacks have a cover you can put over the trunk. I remember my brother telling me once that the first thing he learned when he moved to a big city was to make sure not even a quarter was left out because junkies will break your window for it if they think it will help them get a fix.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So after all that you might ask why I would prefer renting a car, and here's why...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Mobility, you don't get later random unseen charges like taking a train to a station only to pay extra to get into the city. You can also stop anywhere and see just about anything. You can pick up anyone and split gas and other costs along with being able to get to the pretty little villages easily. And finally there's something awesome about hauling balls down this tiny Euro road in your pipsquek diesel engine car. Like racing a bullet bike in your little 1.2 liter engine car down a steep windy road in the Alps...Why else would you travel?????</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Second, if you are not traveling alone, it really is cheaper, just so long as you are smart with it and don't incur all those other random costs, because you can avoid toll roads(I'll talk about how to do that with phones)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Finally, I'll be honest, I think there is a lot of adventure to taking public transport. But it's nothing like driving a car. You want to really be the captain at the head of your Euro ship, take a car. 'nuff said.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Exchanges are for spies and mafia bosses</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But seriously. Have you ever looked at how much money you have to exchange at one of these hole in the wall exchange places to get a premium rate? I mean the only person I can imagine doing something like that has got to be like some mobster boss or a CIA agent. But stinges like me don't belong at exchanges. We trade countries too often to rely on one form of currency, and who really knows if I'll spend it all? Fact is, stinges never reach a premium rate. So how should you exchange while traveling?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The best way is to use ATM's. This can be problematic, however, as many debit cards charge a withdrawal fee. So for example I once had a card that charged me $5 every time I withdrew money from an ATM internationally(yeah, that blows) but it also charged me 3% every time I used it to make a purchase internationally(Not bad, but still not good). There are, however, good international banks that don't charge any fees at all or charge a 1% fee. Capital One checking for example has NO, yes you heard right, NO INTERNATIONAL FEES. So every time I withdraw from an ATM it's like I was at home. One problem with this is Debit cards usually just have a swipe stripe, which means they don't work at European gas stations unless you go inside(once again a problem late at night unless you're on a toll road). They often also don't work to buy items. Now, however, the phone pay is becoming much more common in Europe, so that does help. Chips are great for gas stations in Europe though, so getting a card that has one and has no fees is great too. One possible way is the American Airlines credit card, which has no transaction fees and has a chip, but after the first year it's a $90 fee so that can be a bit steep.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Also with ATM's it's becoming more and more common to see more options as you withdraw money. It asks you if you want to exchange to the currency at a fixed exchange rate set by the bank. Don't do this! It's their way to scam you out of money, and oftentimes your home credit company charges extra fees when you push this button too. So just hit the non conversion button, whichever one that is. These are tricky and hard to explain because different banks ask you different questions, but when given a chance to convert, don't do it. It'll convert itself later at the premium exchange rate.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Data let's you rule the matrix</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I put this here because you can literally travel Europe with no phone. But in our age, let's be honest, do you really want to go all around and take all these beautiful selfies and not be able to instantly share them? So you may want to take the 3 hour wait in line at your mobile phone provider to see what kind of plans they offer for Europe. If you will be there for awhile, this could be advantageous as they have some plans for around $30. But what you really need, is data!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This you can get relatively easy and cheaply if you plan to stay in one country for awhile, like we're talking $10 for 2 gbs. They also have plans covering different countries but these can also be more expensive and it might be worth getting</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Why do you need data?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Of course you need it to post your beautiful pictures, but more importantly data can really save the day when it comes to knowing how to get places either when walking or when driving. Of course, you don't need data for that. For that you just need wi-fi, which surprisingly is becoming more and more open throughout Europe, but if you need trusted wi-fi that works, find a McDonald's or a shopping center(which most likely has a Macdo). This is also about the only way besides buying a gps to avoid tolls because literally every road leads back to a toll road, unless you're lucky enough to be traveling in Spain. But if you're really stubborn, you can try to use a map like my friend and I did once. But avoiding those blue signs is an almost impossible task.<br />
<br />
No matter what route you choose, there are many open wi-fi networks in Europe, even in the East. Use them to download offline city maps and get directions. This could save your life....like literally.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dP9nixXNBQE/Vje-zT7Qp1I/AAAAAAAABT4/If7WOyyGPZE/s1600/Auxerrefull.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dP9nixXNBQE/Vje-zT7Qp1I/AAAAAAAABT4/If7WOyyGPZE/s640/Auxerrefull.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Sleep is for sissies</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
This one may seem pretty self-evident, but I'll say it anyway. If you are trying to be a stinge in Europe be prepared to get out of your comfort zone. You can usually find pretty cheap hotels for about $30-50 if you're not quite a true stinge using sites like booking.com and hotels.com or airbnb.com. But if you want to really save, Europe offers some wacky ways to sleep. Hostels are always a cheap option and you can check hostelworld.com, but if you're a true stinge, $10 a night is waaaaay too much every night, so you got to skip at least a couple, and live! So here are some options:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sleep on the beach(not always legal, but fun, and a friend got robbed doing this once...just btw)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sleep in a park with other bums just like you</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sleep in a parking garage</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sleep in your car or on a train</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sleep in the train station</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sleep in an air-conditioned mall until you get kicked out.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Skip sleep and go to a club all night(not recommended for repeat sessions)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Put a hat on the ground for money and fall asleep on the street<br />
Try couch surfing<br />
Go inside an actual hostel and ask if they have space for a reservation. If they say yes, say their price is too much and ask if you could come back at like midnight to see if they still have space and if you could pay half price then?(I did this once in St. Petersburg...and the sun didn't even set til 1am, soooo I wouldn't have wanted to sleep anyway.)<br />
(Please add any additional advice in comments at the bottom)<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Don't under or overuse public transport</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This can be one of the finest lines to draw in the sand because most cities have tickets where you can buy a day pass, some even let you buy a city pass, with reduced or free admission to billions of attractions, or one time use passes that usually last one trip in the metro or for a certain amount of time, like one hour.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So what should you do? I honestly think that there is something quitessentially European to using public transport on your trip, so I would advise spending at least some money on it. But don't become dependent on it. City passes seem nice, but usually don't have attractions you want to use or the ones that do are usually just discounted, which you paid for with your pass anyway. Also, some day passes only last for one day not a 24 hour period, so that can suck too. But last and perhaps most importantly, don't spend your day in the metro! True tight-wads walk! And a lot of times that's when you'll find the best hidden gems of Europe.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2-Mr_H_VCZM/Vje6SY5SfPI/AAAAAAAABTE/pn6yET7vb0M/s1600/IMG_9692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2-Mr_H_VCZM/Vje6SY5SfPI/AAAAAAAABTE/pn6yET7vb0M/s640/IMG_9692.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Food stands and small restaurants-there's really nothing better</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I can't explain how much it hurts to see tourists walk into a "Czech" restaurant in the center of Prague, where not one of the staff is actually Czech. Centers are tourist traps! In smaller cities, centers are the only places to buy things, in big cities like Paris walk just a little bit outside of the center, turn down a little side street. Find a hole-in-the-wall restaurant. That's where you want to eat! I will caution, however, that not every city has these, if you've tried to walk out of the center for awhile and all the stores are still pricey, then that may just be your luck. (Ahem...Vienna)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Don't be afraid of stands either, many of the stands in the center are tradional food, and offer very good prices. There's nothing quite like a thin slice of pizza from a stand in Italy, or a crepe in Paris as you walk to the Eiffel Tower, or of course, a savory trdelnik in Prague surrounded by church towers.<br />
<br />
It is also important to note, that most places in Europe charge to use the bathroom, so you may want to get used to finding a McDonald's or Starbucks or shopping center and finding the bathrooms there. Beware, however, these too are starting to charge, so sometimes it's best to just take a hit.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Be smart with markets</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Markets are a tried and true European tradition, but not all of them have authentic products, and not all of them will charge good rates. Make sure to peruse for awhile. Also, sometimes you can barter with them on the price. This of course, depends on where you are, but don't go in asking what the price is and be happy when the price is $40, instead be like well if it was only $15 I'd get it(usually I've found if you're younger, you can play the I'm too poor, if you're older, you can play the that item is ridiculously overpriced). Some of the best of these bartering places are the little Asian shops, also sometimes you can find actual built markets with little dealers packed inside(with the flies). These are great places to buy just about anything. Also don't be afraid of the food, a lot of times they'll even let you try something. And enjoy tasting the local cuisine. The best burger I have ever had just so happened to be from a market in London.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAgOTRErUjc/Vje7pE5T1hI/AAAAAAAABTQ/itsFhZi0AGY/s1600/IMG_5703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAgOTRErUjc/Vje7pE5T1hI/AAAAAAAABTQ/itsFhZi0AGY/s640/IMG_5703.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Small Euro shops=good quality, cheap clothing</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Of course, if you have the money, sure go into those expensive Louis Vuitton shops, but if you're a stinge, you need a good alternative to returning all Euroed up from your trip, and the best way to do this is to walk! The more you walk around the streets of Europe, the more you will realize that there are billions of little stores and shops with local brands or discount prices that can take your style to the next level. Of course, you will also find some small shops that offer Rodeo Drive prices for clothes, my rule of thumb with that is: look, don't touch.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So you might ask for some concrete examples...well generally speaking, guys can get pretty nice clothes for these prices:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Ties-$3-15</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
pants-$10-20</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
dress shirts-$10-30</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
suit-$70-200</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
shoes-$20-50</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But if you walk into a shop, and they try to sell you a suit for $1,000, I'm sure it's a nice brand, but you can, and quite frankly should, do better in Europe.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Don't be afraid to make friends</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This can be one of the most rewarding and fun parts of your trip. Make friends with natives and other tourists. You'll be surprised at how many would love to take an American on a tour of their city and practice English. Of course, be careful as sometimes their English may not be quite up to the task, and you may feel like you didn't see as much at the end of the day as you wanted. But this is a great way to avoid tour costs, as well as seeing the city off the beaten track. But most importantly, you make friends, and natives know where tourist traps are located and can steer you clear of them. One caveat here is, you should be wary of any natives that come and talk to you of their own volition. Europeans don't usually start conversations with strangers unless they want something. This is strange for them, and so usually it's a good rule of thumb to remember that natives that talk to you are strange(unless you're in a club or like a really, like I mean really hot girl). This happened to me once in Budapest, and I found myself losing money for nothing because I went along with natives that approached me. The next day, however, it was I approaching others, and made some really great friends, and had a much better day.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Beware the loud herds</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If you are an American going on vacation in Europe, it is also likely that sometime during your trip you will be the typical "loud" American tourist traveling with the rest of your herd. When this happens beware! This is when most people get pickpocketed. There are many reasons as to why this is the case, but mainly it's because thieves are tipped off by the loud English. They're drawn like wolves to the scent of blood. And they really are a wolfpack, most pickpockets and thieves work in pairs or groups. One will bump you or distract you in some way, the other will sneak behind you and check your pockets or backpack. They also usually wait for you to move before doing anything. So for example, you will step off the metro and as you cross the gap, they'll stick their hand in your pocket or open a zipper of your bag. Most of the time, you can be on your best guard and you still won't notice.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The best way to avoid this is to keep all your valuables in zippers that are hard to open, or in your front pockets. Also it's good to have a decoy zipper, one that is easier to get to that almost determinately your thief will try to reach for. I have a ski bag that is perfect for this, it has an almost locked down vault of zippers except for one vulnerable one on the top. I have had thieves try multiple times to open this zipper, but I never keep anything in it, so they usually get it half open only to see that there is nothing inside, and by then, they've missed their chance.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Also as a sidenote, while working at an embassy I found out that most of the time, thieves take the money and the credit cards, and they throw everything else on the ground, and so months later the wallet will show up at the embassy. So in the case you do get pickpocketed, stop by your nearest embassy and leave your address, your wallet won't show up anytime soon, but maybe before you need your insurance card again.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
If you want to make your trip memorable, put in some effort</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Ok, so I know that one of the reasons people want to go to Europe is so they can say they've been to (insert famous European city). But while that may be a motivation or your main motivation at the beginning, you will soon realize that each country has its own flavor that you may not ever understand if you spend all your time looking at sites in the capital. I feel there is something missing to people's trips when they tell me they took night trains from Amsterdam to Paris, to London, to Prague, to Vienna, to Budapest, to Rome, to Madrid and then flew to Athens. And I ask them if they saw the tulip fields in Amsterdam or Mont St-Michel in France, or Stonehenge in the UK, or rafted Cesky Krumlov in the Czech, or stopped in beautiful alpine villages in Austria, or wandered through Tuscany, or had paelle on an empty beach in Spain, or a million other things that do not have to do with the capital.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--jCJd1ypYZQ/Vje-AOfwKtI/AAAAAAAABTo/WPNKlAUEc_w/s1600/IMG_5659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--jCJd1ypYZQ/Vje-AOfwKtI/AAAAAAAABTo/WPNKlAUEc_w/s640/IMG_5659.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I bring this up here because capitals or other huge tourist attractions are expensive!!! Spending money at every attraction in a city can be quite taxing on a stinge because in the end you keep spending because you feel like you have to, this is the only time you will be there! While in reality, if you had done your research well enough it would be: well I already know what I'm going to do and where I'm going to spend money. And this is the important thing, after enough time in Europe, you will notice that many cities feel the SAME! I know I must have struck some nerves now, because obviously cities aren't the same, and indeed they all have their own flavor. But if you really want to experience Europe, plan it! Mix it up. Don't spend every day in a capital looking at yet another museum or yet another historical site. That stuff is cool, but remember to go do something too, and here's the magical part of Europe. Usually this can be done together! So for example, you can go to Hallstatt(this ridiculously beautiful mountainside village in Austria) and hike the Alps! You can go to Cesky Krumlov(Another otherworldly city) and raft underneath this huge castle! You can leave the main city and find magic in the countryside, where food, board, and activities are usually much cheaper, and quite frankly, more fun.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You might ask how do I get ideas for trips like this? One way is I've started keeping track of interesting places and things when people mention them in my phone. Also I've found going to a bookstore can be extremely helpful, and you don't even need to buy the book, but can just note places you would want to go. But probably the most useful is just start searching in google. I know I've made the mistake of putting things off until I get to the actual place to finally look up what to do and oh yeah it's Europe so everything is closed on Mondays, or yeah that museum only opens at this time, or a bus to there is already sold out. Moral of the story, plan ahead(or mitigate it by renting a car:))</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Remember you're in Europe</h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The Russians have a saying, <b>you buy twice what you buy cheap</b>. In other words, the other item may have been twice as expensive, but it will last twice as long. This is a good thing to remember when traveling in Europe, and maybe one of the hardest things for any stinge to get over. In the end, no matter how cheap your trip was, you still spent money to get there and to get around and for food. What did you spend it on and did you spend enough? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'll always treasure my memories of sleeping illegally under a tree next to an unesco castle, or trying to save money by walking the entire city of Budapest, or having to walk a bike 6 miles at night in Slovakia when it got a flat, or a horrendous almost 24 hour drive from Holland to Italy avoiding toll roads and hotels. But I am also happy that I spent money on things. That I bought a Toledo steel knife. That I went to the Louvre. That I bought a nice shirt, or spent money for a tour bus or kayak. Make sure that your trip is what you want it to be, stinge or not.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And when it's what you want, you'll find Europe to be one of the greatest places on earth.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UvaEEX0eix4/Vje_sfWA49I/AAAAAAAABUM/LTYn_s-vBL4/s1600/IMG_1107_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UvaEEX0eix4/Vje_sfWA49I/AAAAAAAABUM/LTYn_s-vBL4/s640/IMG_1107_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
<br />
<a href="http://etsy.com/shop/europhotography">Click here are some Euro photographs for sale as well.</a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 18px;">http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 18px;">© A River Runs Through It Photography</span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6942087491514027388.post-58263117476558811942016-05-30T13:10:00.000-07:002016-05-30T16:56:14.175-07:00Top 10 Things to See & Do in Slovakia<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lW988iSqU-k/V0yZVo7yEVI/AAAAAAAAChw/nxV22H2QQYIBh6TPq61GFZ8C22S2iLJkQCLcB/s1600/top10slovakia.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lW988iSqU-k/V0yZVo7yEVI/AAAAAAAAChw/nxV22H2QQYIBh6TPq61GFZ8C22S2iLJkQCLcB/s1600/top10slovakia.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ATZ9dO4AUQ/V0yYKVnRqzI/AAAAAAAAChg/KZgwOVKLtZ4AWvauLxMLa5BK_3sQH8-SwCKgB/s1600/IMG_3885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9ATZ9dO4AUQ/V0yYKVnRqzI/AAAAAAAAChg/KZgwOVKLtZ4AWvauLxMLa5BK_3sQH8-SwCKgB/s640/IMG_3885.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Undoubtedly, if you've heard anything about Slovakia, the above picture is probably what you think of. Bland industry does not encapsulate the whole of the country, however, and there are many things to see in do in this beautiful country. From snow-capped mountains, to personal hilltop castles, Slovakia shows you where Europe has been and where it is going.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>1.Eat Halušky</b></span><br />
Usually my food choices come a little later in lists, but I have this long-time obsession with Halusky. It was one of the first foreign foods I ever ate when I moved to the Czech Republic and Slovakia and has become one of the staples that I always eat whenever I go back. <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/05/top-10-things-to-do-in-czech-republic.html" target="_blank">See my top 10 things to see & do in the Czech Republic here.</a> Halusky is the Slovak national dish and it is basically sheep's cheese and gnocchi with cut bacon pieces. It is amazing and you would really miss out if you visit Slovakia and don't have it. Additionally, the Slovaks have pirohy, which are cheese filled ravioli basically with bacon bits on top. (The Ukrainians and Russians have a similar word for different things. <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/2016/05/top-10-russia.html" target="_blank">See my top 10 things to see and do in Russia here.</a>) Don't miss those either. And finally, make sure to have something with tvaroh, another staple of Eastern Europe, and the Slovak specialty of braided smoked cheese. The last time I was in Bratislava they even had little cheese vending machines you could use.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lpcM6kuzLHs/V0yX-Ja3fHI/AAAAAAAAChk/cRCCqkz5W7AZRWZ-VBnVmADypAZl3Y6-wCKgB/s1600/DSC05126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lpcM6kuzLHs/V0yX-Ja3fHI/AAAAAAAAChk/cRCCqkz5W7AZRWZ-VBnVmADypAZl3Y6-wCKgB/s640/DSC05126.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halušky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>2.Hike a Bratislava Castle</b></span><br />
I say one of them because there are two amazing castles in Bratislava. One is the main castle on the hill that is definitely worth the hike, and the other is a short bus ride away. This second one is called Devin castle, and it is more ruins than an actual castle now, but it also sits right at the edge of Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Austria.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JtnWTcrlNzY/V0yaiwwZhBI/AAAAAAAACh8/fB0YpMQZYYEnTAUMjFsUP052on_hRLLFgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1623_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JtnWTcrlNzY/V0yaiwwZhBI/AAAAAAAACh8/fB0YpMQZYYEnTAUMjFsUP052on_hRLLFgCLcB/s640/IMG_1623_HDR.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Road to the Castle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>3.Visit a castle or ruins</b></span><br />
Slovakia is home to some of the largest castles in all of Europe. Many of these have fallen into disrepair or have never been repaired at all, but they are worth visiting. Two of the main ones that should be on Slovakia bucket lists are the largest castle ruins in the world at Spišsky Hrad, and the second is a lovely castle in Bojnice.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x_oNFLgVh3E/V0yX-k4cOrI/AAAAAAAACg8/S5Znj81aLWEJl_YSbCAKC48TlJbBJBWRwCKgB/s1600/DSC05137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x_oNFLgVh3E/V0yX-k4cOrI/AAAAAAAACg8/S5Znj81aLWEJl_YSbCAKC48TlJbBJBWRwCKgB/s640/DSC05137.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spišsky Hrad</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>4.Eat some ice cream</b></span><br />
I have found little difference in the gelato I have eaten in Italy vs that in Slovakia (probably because they are both made by Italians) besides the price. Gelato is almost a must for any foreigner to Europe, but in Western Europe, it comes with a hefty price tag when added at the end of meals. In Bratislava, however, I have found what I consider some of the best gelato in the world. Yes, I said it. In the world! And the price is ridiculously reasonable for what you get. The place is a bit hidden in a back alley off one of the main streets in the city center. But it is called Koun, and it is totally worth it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8LBmUGDykzU/V0yYE8lnO6I/AAAAAAAAChY/vCYPnuVmx84jekFZYxKjq8JkyPYcNWG4QCKgB/s1600/Photo%2BJul%2B15%252C%2B10%2B59%2B06%2BAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8LBmUGDykzU/V0yYE8lnO6I/AAAAAAAAChY/vCYPnuVmx84jekFZYxKjq8JkyPYcNWG4QCKgB/s400/Photo%2BJul%2B15%252C%2B10%2B59%2B06%2BAM.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Line can get long</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>5.Climb the Tatry</b></span><br />
Another of the amazing sites of slovakia are the large Tatry mountains. Keep in mind that there are both the small and large Tatry. The large have a hotel that lets you stay right at the top of the mountains. Additionally, there are pools and massaging hotels nearby where you can relax and enjoy the view. Also, don't feel like hiking? You can take a gondola ride up to high up on the range. The Slovaks really have all their bases covered.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_Q3LUOYnw8/V0yX_4KNkUI/AAAAAAAAChA/KRQSeT_-yPY6KucbmzuTaYUh7DNsZtR7gCKgB/s1600/DSC05166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_Q3LUOYnw8/V0yX_4KNkUI/AAAAAAAAChA/KRQSeT_-yPY6KucbmzuTaYUh7DNsZtR7gCKgB/s640/DSC05166.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMEd4CSvDco/V0yYBjFNw-I/AAAAAAAAChE/NnwuK6sCh8UNPJmlQvT3-P_bg_dDi3-3wCKgB/s1600/DSC05172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMEd4CSvDco/V0yYBjFNw-I/AAAAAAAAChE/NnwuK6sCh8UNPJmlQvT3-P_bg_dDi3-3wCKgB/s640/DSC05172.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>6.Visit Košice</b></span><br />
For hundreds of years, Slovakia was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, and even though its name never made the list there were times when Bratislava was even chosen as the capital of the empire. Few places illustrate this history between the Hungarians and the Slovaks more than Kosice. The city sits at the far end of the republic, and has some of the strangest architecture you will see in Slovakia. Much of it is built in the Hungarian style, and there are Hungarian words and symbols everywhere.<br />
<br />
Besides its vast history, Kosice is a beautiful place to visit, and far off the beaten track. It's a great place to breathe in Europe, while taking a break from a busy lifestyle.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xqTA0vKwe68/V0yX-Xa9u9I/AAAAAAAACg4/2C0WTX--gek2GEPpISW7q4T4mYgxjsKWACKgB/s1600/DSC05123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xqTA0vKwe68/V0yX-Xa9u9I/AAAAAAAACg4/2C0WTX--gek2GEPpISW7q4T4mYgxjsKWACKgB/s640/DSC05123.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>7.Take a dip in a lake</b></span><br />
Summers can be brutal in Europe. The Europeans are really just discovering the idea of A/C. Slovaks, have a great solution to this, however, in that almost anywhere you go in Slovakia, there is a lake nearby where you will get plenty of sun bathers and swimmers alike. These watering holes are great to cool down and just relax on a hot summers day. One note of caution, most of these lakes are topless, so be prepared for what you may find.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VwmTjgVtOhQ/V0yYEJUXUoI/AAAAAAAAChU/3sKKURigEXgIlru-eQN2_b6Twk0tIrSpQCKgB/s1600/Photo%2BJul%2B11%252C%2B7%2B07%2B52%2BAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VwmTjgVtOhQ/V0yYEJUXUoI/AAAAAAAAChU/3sKKURigEXgIlru-eQN2_b6Twk0tIrSpQCKgB/s640/Photo%2BJul%2B11%252C%2B7%2B07%2B52%2BAM.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lakes like this are all around</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>8.Čičmany</b></span><br />
This historic town is one of the prettiest tributes to ancient craftsmanship in Slovakia. The carefully constructed facades of the buildings here denote the beauty of the past and are a great site to see. This is also prime ski territory in Slovakia and a great place to ski and stay.<br />
<br />
Additionally, there are many other cities in Slovakia with similar artwork on the historic wooden houses if they end up being closer to you.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z5FmCzDzJMk/V0yYDpPBlkI/AAAAAAAAChQ/8cIxVobosisZ73NknVC6pg-E_dHKhhtoQCKgB/s1600/DSC05284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z5FmCzDzJMk/V0yYDpPBlkI/AAAAAAAAChQ/8cIxVobosisZ73NknVC6pg-E_dHKhhtoQCKgB/s640/DSC05284.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Stará L'ubovn'a, but the old houses are similar to Čičmany.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>9.Hit a club</b></span><br />
This is probably what Bratislava is most famous for for many Europeans, since most Europeans go to Prague to party, but the Prazaks go to Bratislava. There is good reason for this, a lot of it has to do with the legend of Czech and Slovak women and their per capita head count of models, but if you're in the mood to party, Bratislava does not disappoint.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K2Pdj4a7o4U/V0yXhRE1l3I/AAAAAAAACgw/BeV96qUmWs07fVVSSLyhhOY2gSPh0YgygCLcB/s1600/Photo%2BJul%2B03%252C%2B2%2B13%2B38%2BPM_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K2Pdj4a7o4U/V0yXhRE1l3I/AAAAAAAACgw/BeV96qUmWs07fVVSSLyhhOY2gSPh0YgygCLcB/s640/Photo%2BJul%2B03%252C%2B2%2B13%2B38%2BPM_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from one club in Bratislava</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>10.Go up in the space tower</b></span><br />
This is a bit of a joke in Slovakia as one of the large bridges that goes across the Danube has what looks like a huge spaceship at the top of the tower. In reality, this is a gourmet restaurant where food is extremely expensive. You can go up to the restaurant to eat, or you can take a few more stairs to the rooftop and get a beautiful view of the city. You pay for the trip to see the view, but not for the restaurant. Although, I'm pretty sure with how expensive the restaurant is, you pay for the view no matter what.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0S5Us4FtTLA/V0yViIUhakI/AAAAAAAACgk/bfLRqdObItksEaPH_IpHJUnb08bx4K5XQCLcB/s1600/IMG_1054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0S5Us4FtTLA/V0yViIUhakI/AAAAAAAACgk/bfLRqdObItksEaPH_IpHJUnb08bx4K5XQCLcB/s640/IMG_1054.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you have any suggestions or would like to <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">contribute click here to send me an email</a>. If you would like to sponsor my trip somewhere to showcase your business or to work with me <a href="http://www.travelguide201.com/p/contribute.html" target="_blank">please send me an email as well.</a></span></i></span><br />
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Additionally, follow me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/travelguide201/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strupp33/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or check out my <a href="http://www.ariverrunsthroughitphotography.com/" target="_blank">photography website at A River Runs Through It Photography</a>.</span></i></div>
</div>
BStrupphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05454239996798622779noreply@blogger.com0