Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 4 European countries you may not know much about and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2021/09/four-european-countries-you-may-not-know-much-about/.CaptchaSubmit Laura PowellSeptember 6, 2021 Leave a comment Note: All travel is subject to frequently-changing governmental restrictions—please check federal, state, and local advisories before scheduling trips. Dreaming of backpacking around Europe once travel restrictions ease up a bit? You aren’t alone. But if you want to travel to a place where you won’t bump into too many other Americans, sample from this quartet of less-visited countries. RELATED: This is Western Europe’s last great budget destination Slovenia Lake Bled, Slovenia Slovenia and Slovakia are oft-confused by the geographically-challenged. Slovakia was once part of Czechoslovakia and therefore sits next to the Czech Republic (now also known as Czechia). Meanwhile, Slovenia was formerly part of Yugoslavia. Located in Central Europe, it’s best known these days as the birthplace of Melania Trump. So, let’s start in Slovenia. The capital city of Ljubljana is filled with pedestrian-friendly streets and a ljively [sic] cultural scene. Take a walk along the Ljubljanica River, then visit the castle that hovers above the city. It’s accessible by funicular or a steep, scenic climb. Among the prettiest places to visit around Slovenia are Lake Bled, the country’s most popular resort, known for its tiny island in the center that’s home to a church whose foundations date back to the 8th century; Triglav National Park, located in the region of the Julian Alps; and the Škocjan Caves. Spelunkers, beware—more than a dozen species of bats hang out here. Slovakia Spiš Castle, Slovakia Meanwhile, Slovakia’s capital city of Bratislava is located along the Danube River. Its Old Town is known for its winding cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant nightlife. A panoramic view can be enjoyed from Bratislava Castle, a 15-minute uphill climb. Other must-sees around Slovakia include Spiš Castle, a massive complex dating back to the 12th century, and Bardejov, famous for its healing mineral waters and spas. Slovakia has more than a dozen caves open to the public, including the Dobšinská Ice Cave with its underground glaciers and frozen waterfalls. Cool. Luxembourg While Slovakia and Slovenia are often confused with each other, Luxembourg is often either mistaken for the principality of Liechtenstein (which is even smaller) or overlooked altogether. The tiny Grand Duchy, located in the heart of Europe, is home to many European Union institutions. The Grand Duke lives in his palace in Luxembourg City. Tourists are allowed to peep in, though, during the summer. For those who are simply castle crazy, Luxembourg has more than 50. Many of them, including Vianden, Bourscheid, Clervaux, Esch-Sauer, and Wiltz Castles are open to the public. The stables of the latter contain the National Museum of the Art of Brewing. Prefer the grape? Head to the Moselle area for white wine tasting. The Mullerthal and Escapardenne Trails are both popular among hikers, while the country’s Land of the Red Rocks, also known as Minett, provides opportunities for mountain biking. Estonia Tallinn, Estonia Lastly, don’t skip Estonia, a charming Baltic country. The Old Town of Tallinn, in the country’s capital, is the country’s one well-known attraction. The medieval city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the honorific is much-deserved. Visitors can spend an entire day simply wandering ye olde streets. In the main square, Old Thomas, the clock tower of the 13th century government meeting house, stands guard. Feeling energetic? Climb up and check out the tremendous views of the red tile roofs dominating Tallinn’s skyline. Another Tallinn highlight is Seaplane Harbour, the site of a massive maritime museum. It houses more than 100 historic sea craft, including a submarine and a century-old icebreaker. A bike ride out to Kadriorg Park is another worthy endeavor. The park and its palace date back to the days of Peter the Great (circa 1718). For those looking to enjoy even more nature, head west to the islands. Estonia, surprisingly, has more than 2,000, and many are open to visitors. Among the most popular are Saaremaa, Hiiumaa and Muhu. All are perfect for hiking, cycling or scenic drives. Tagged: City, Destinations, International, Types of Travel Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Laura Powell Latest posts by Laura Powell (see all) 4 European countries you may not know much about - September 6, 2021 Hit America’s largest Oktoberfest, plus other unforgettable Cincinnati picks - July 26, 2021 9 reasons to road trip to Indian Country - October 27, 2020 Related Posts How to experience Prague like a real bohemian By Kate Robertson 6 Eurail hacks for first-time backpackers By Emeri Callahan 7 great alternatives to popular, pricier destinations By Compass + Twine Quiz: In which country are you destined to live? By Danielle Braff
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called How to experience Prague like a real bohemian and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2018/09/how-to-experience-prague-like-a-real-bohemian/.CaptchaSubmit Kate RobertsonSeptember 24, 2018 Leave a comment During its golden age in the 19th and early 20th centuries, Prague was a hotbed for intellectuals and artists. Bohemians, the original hippies, spent their mornings creatively splashing paint on a canvas or writing poetry on napkins, followed by long afternoons lounging in provocative cafes drinking coffee or sipping absinthe. RELATED: 5 cheap European destinations you’ll love Today, the Czech Republic’s vibrant historical capital is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and it’s not difficult to understand why. An amazing 866 hectares of the old city are UNESCO protected for their Gothic, renaissance and baroque mix of architectural wonders. But there’s more here than just outstanding history and architecture—Prague has once again become boho chic. Here’s how to live out your bohemian dream in the City of a Hundred Spires. Trover photo by Michal Bosina Start with art Bohemians value self-expression and creativity over status or material things, so begin your Prague tour with a visit to the National Gallery. Czechs love the arts, and the history of this gallery dates back to 1796 when a society of nobles wanted to raise the artistic tastes of the common folk. Permanent collections are displayed in eight locations, including five palaces, and range from a “Medieval Art in Bohemia and Central Europe 1200-1550” collection to the 21st century. The National Gallery houses one the most famous paintings in the world, Albrecht Dürer’s Feast of the Rosary. Have a bite Although there weren’t vegan restaurants in the 19th and 20th centuries, bohemians with their defiance of the norm, would have approved of a vegan diet. They likely would have flocked to Vegan’s Prague to indulge in familiar comfort dishes like avocado toast and bruschetta, or to try their vegetarian spin on Czech specialties, like meatless goulash. Also worth a visit is Farm Urban Kitchen & Coffee, an eco-friendly café serving an all-day brunch menu based on available produce acquired at the local farmers’ market every day. It doesn’t get much more natural than that. Trover photo by Geoff and Katie Matthews Have a sip Back in the day, café culture flourished as bohemian guests met to debate, write or sketch for hours for the price of a good cup of coffee. During the Czech Republic’s takeover by the USSR in 1948, however, the communist regime considered cafes elitist and most were closed. Coffee became coarsely ground, watery cups of swill. Fortunately, there is once more a renaissance of the Prague café. And the beauty is that several of the original pre-Soviet cafes are again going strong. There’s the Grand Café Orient, the only cubist café in the world. Designed by cubist architect Josef Gocar in the early 1900s, the façade and floor plan are geometric, right down to the interior designs like the buffet bar and chandeliers. Even Czech pastries, like venecek, which are usually round, are square here. Order a coffee, along with a Prague ham sandwich or a palacinky-sladke (pancakes with sweet toppings); then kick back and pretend you’re Picasso. There’s also the Café Louvre, re-opened in its original 1902 location. This is where the likes of Karel Capek, Franz Kafka and even Albert Einstein hung out. ALSO: Book your Prague vacation and earn CheapCash good on hotels—sign up today! Abandon inhibitions The bohemians valued their freedom to live their life their own way without socially-defined restraints. A visit to the Sex Machines Museum, the only museum in the world of its kind, reminds us that sexual freedom of expression didn’t just start with the hippies in the 1960s. When you walk through the door and see the lipstick-red walls, you know you’re in for a ride as you view 7,300 exhibits, including screenings of erotic black and white films from the early 20th century. Connect with nature There’s no better place to get in touch with your childlike wonder like the bohemians loved to do, than with a visit to a green space. Prague is filled with wonderful palace gardens, but the structure of these would be too restricting for a true bohemian, so head to Riegrovy Sady, a 100-year-old park filled with woods, walking paths, and lush grassy areas where you can lay and watch the clouds go by, listen to the birds and connect with Mother Nature. The park is also home to some small intimate cafes, or opt for the large outdoor beer garden, open from April to October. Indulge in the green fairy Let’s face it, bohemian artists were known for drinking beverages stronger than coffee, and absinthe was a favorite (maybe because it was frowned upon by social conservatives—after all, bohemians were political anarchists). Today the Czechs still like to resist conservative traditions, and Prague is home to absinthe bars, despite them being banned in some other European countries. At the Absintherie Bar & Museum (there are two locations, one on Jilska Street where they have, of course, regular art exhibitions and live music some days, and another at Franz Kafka Square), you can tap into your inner Vincent Van Gogh. Learn about the history of the “green fairy,” browse old bottles and paraphernalia in the museum, then sample more than 60 types of this licorice-flavored liqueur either in cocktails like zombies, in ice cream or even a slushie. It’s a must, though, to try the traditional style, poured over a sugar cube in a special spoon into a special glass. It will turn cloudy, but don’t worry—that’s a sign of good quality. Shake a tail feather No need to stop the party there; just move it over to Karlovy Lazne, the biggest music dance club in Central Europe. Located in a 15th-century building that once housed Roman baths, the club is spread over five floors, each with a different theme. Bust out your best dance moves, and sway across the original mosaic tiles while the LED lights strobe. If you like to choose how long you hang out in the crowds, reserve the VIP room or a private box right next to the dance floor. All that dancing getting you hot? Chill out in the ice pub, once of the few bars in the world where walls, tables, bar, glasses and everything are made from ice (reserve your 30-minute visit; parkas and gloves provided). Photo courtesy of the K&K Hotel Bohemian Relaxation When it’s time to kick your feet up bohemian style, stay at the K&K Hotel Central, a boutique property that has beautifully balanced 1930s art deco architecture with modern luxury. Choose the breakfast option—the buffet is huge—but even better is the setting: a unique avant-garde glass cube. For more art deco from the bohemian days, choose the Radisson Blu Alcron, which has preserved the original marble floors, soaring ceilings and antique lighting. The on-site restaurant is worth a visit, to sample its award-winning, Michelin-approved menu. The décor, with walls that showcase images of dancing couples and a 1930s fireplace, will have you feeling boho chic in no time. Tagged: Cheap City, USA, Cheap Tips, City, Destinations, International, Types of Travel Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Kate Robertson Latest posts by Kate Robertson (see all) How to experience Prague like a real bohemian - September 24, 2018 Related Posts 7 great alternatives to popular, pricier destinations By Compass + Twine Cartagena, Colombia on less than $75 a day By Jeanette Zinno Quiz: In which country are you destined to live? By Danielle Braff 12 amazing places to visit in Central Park By Michele Herrmann
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 6 Eurail hacks for first-time backpackers and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2018/08/6-eurail-hacks-for-savvy-backpackers/.CaptchaSubmit Emeri CallahanAugust 28, 2018 Leave a comment Whether you’re planning to ping-pong around Europe or deep-dive into a single country for weeks at a time, consider Eurail your new best friend. Knowing how to use the continent’s intricate train system will give you access to 28 distinctly beautiful European countries and ultimately save you from the high cost of single trip tickets (freeing up more money for important things, like pizza and booze). Here are some handy tricks to keep in your back pocket (along with your mobile charger). RELATED: 9 gorgeous hostels in Europe starting at $4 Get the best bang for your buck First things first: Know which Eurail pass is best suited to your travel agenda. Depending on how long you’ll be adventuring through Europe and how many countries you want to check off that bucket list, you’ll have a few different options to choose from. All passes can be customized, but the three main choices are the Global Pass, Select Pass and One Country Pass. There’s even a handy online tool to figure out which pass is best for you, but in a nutshell… Global Pass: This pass gives you the flexibility to travel anywhere at anytime. This is the most expensive option, but offers the most freedom in return. Go for this one if your travel style is more about winging it than having an advance game plan. Select Pass: This one can be a bit tricky because the countries you’re traveling between must adjoin. For this pass, first choose 2 to 4 bordering countries and then figure out the number of days you’ll need to use the pass within 2 months. If you already have in mind a general outline for which bordering countries you want to visit, the Select Pass is for you. One Country Pass: The name says it all. The price of this pass depends on which country you want to explore and how many days of train travel you’ll need (options range from 3 to 8 days). The One Country pass is best for backpackers who want to explore one country, in-depth. If you’re young, own it If you’re under 27 years old, reap the benefits while you still can. The Eurail Youth Pass offers a 20% discount to any standard adult ticket and can be used with any of the above passes. Perks for being young? Amazing. Return of the buddy system Over 27 years old? No problem. Up to 5 travelers ages 28+ can be added to one Saver Pass, which offers a 15% discount on additional Eurail passes. Just make sure your group plans on staying together throughout the journey as you will only have one pass to share. This option is ideal for couples and friends traveling together. ALSO: Sign up for CheapCash and save even more! Get some shut eye en route to your next country It’s a backpacker secret that you can save money on a hotel or hostel by taking an overnight train to your next destination. If you book a train after 7pm and cruise through the night to your next destination, only the following day will be counted as a “ride day” on your Eurail pass. So if you get on an overnight sleeper train from Italy to Switzerland on Wednesday night, you’ll only account for Thursday on your Eurail pass. Expect to get cozy with your neighbors for the evening as the standard sleeper compartments hold anywhere from 1 to 6 bunk beds (think ear plugs). Stay at a cheap, but-great hostel Thankfully for us world travelers, long gone are the days when “hostel” and “dirty” were synonymous. The last decade has ushered in an era of clean, stylish hostel accommodations at unbeatable prices that make traveling much more feasible on any type of budget. For example, if you’re looking for adventure, try the Balmers Hostel. It’s nestled right in the Alps in Interlaken, Switzerland and offers bedded tent camping for $20 nightly. Staff members can book you for skydiving, bouldering, paragliding and a number of other adrenaline-fueled activities. Up for a party? The Pink Palace in Corfu, Greece has a reputation as one of the most famous youth hostels in the world, primarily because of it’s infamous toga parties, and starts at only $27 per night. Looking for something unique? Try the Train Hostel in Brussels, Belgium, where you can sleep in an authentic railroad car for $56 nightly. Get those freebies This one is a surprising, but solid perk of your Eurail pass. You can snag seriously great discounts on hostels, attractions, inter-city transportation and more, just by flashing your Eurail pass. Get a 50% discount on a boat cruise through Austria’s scenic Lake Constance, for example, or score the Bordeaux City Card for 10% off and spend the day meandering through 20 of France’s most renowned museums. You can also take advantage of a 30% discount with Blue Star Ferries to island hop around the Greek isles, and much more. Tagged: City, International, Tips & advice, Types of Travel Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Emeri CallahanEmeri is a freelance travel, wellness and lifestyle writer who divides her time between San Diego, CA and San Juan, PR. You can most likely find her planning her next trip or on the hunt for a burrito. Some of her greatest travel experiences include adventuring into the wilderness of Northern Kenya, spending time with a monk in Myanmar, and exploring the Italian countryside on a Vespa. Latest posts by Emeri Callahan (see all) 6 Eurail hacks for first-time backpackers - August 28, 2018 Related Posts London on the cheap By Ciara Collins Tell us your cheap tips to win a free trip! By Kelsie Ozamiz How to experience Prague like a real bohemian By Kate Robertson The world’s 10 coolest cities where you can live for... By Compass + Twine
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called Tell us your cheap tips to win a free trip! and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2015/11/tell-us-your-cheap-tips-to-win-a-free-trip/.CaptchaSubmit Kelsie OzamizNovember 11, 2015 2 Comments Call for all cheap travel tips, big and small! How cheap are you? So cheap that you have enough cheap travel tips to fill a book? That plethora of knowledge could win you 1 of 5 free vacations if you enter it into the Show Us Your Cheap contest. We’re giving away trips to 5 winners with the best tips to Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe and Hawaii. Enter here and share your best cheap travel time along with a vacation photo. Just for entering and sharing the Show Us Your Cheap contest with your friends you can get $20 in CheapCa$h to use on a hotel booking. For a little bit of inspiration, here are some travel hacks from lifehacks to get the creative juices flowing: Tagged: Beach, Caribbean, City, Flights, FREE!, Hawaii, International, Mexico, Tips & advice Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Kelsie Ozamiz Latest posts by Kelsie Ozamiz (see all) Heat map: Where spring break hotels are cheapest - February 12, 2016 Best cities for volunteering this MLK Day - January 15, 2016 Tell us your cheap tips to win a free trip! - November 11, 2015 Related Posts Cheap spring break: where to go and when By Kelsie Ozamiz 7 worthwhile Mexico destinations that aren’t Cancun By Kristen Mitchell Top 5 travel destinations with cheap and enjoyable off seasons By Kelsie Ozamiz
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called London on the cheap and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2015/11/london-on-the-cheap/.CaptchaSubmit Ciara CollinsNovember 5, 2015 Leave a comment Sure the Euro is down, but that does nothing for the Anglophile cheapster. London’s on the pound sterling, a.k.a., the oldest currency still in use, but don’t let the old pound keep you from hopping over the pond. You can actually experience London on the cheap and it’s bloody brilliant. Related: 5 cheap European destinations Inside the British Museum | Photo courtesy of Luca Piffaretti 1. Museums in London are FREE. That means you can see the Rosetta Stone at the British Museum, pose next to a painting of the handsome royal brothers at the National Gallery, learn about the city both prehistoric and present at the London Museum, and tell all your friends you went to Tate Modern for zero cost. You’re basically making money. Food vendors at Camden Market | Flickr CC Credit: Herry Lawford 2. Cheap street food at Camden Lock Market. At Camden Town you’ll find yourself amongst tattoo parlors, street art, Amy Winehouse’s old stomping grounds and tons of leather. It is CRUCIAL that you grab a bite to eat at one of the many food vendors whiletaking in the area’s unique grunge vibe. You can get three tacos smothered in sour cream and a can of Coke for just under £6 pounds. If Mexican isn’t your fancy, you can find Chinese, falafel, donuts, mac n’ cheese, or just about anything you had or didn’t have your eye on. Changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace | Flickr CC Credit: Rennett Stowe 3. Changing of the Guard is FREE. We already know that you’re standing outside Buckingham Palace in hopes that you’ll eventually exchange a wave with the queen, so why not spare 45 minutes to experience Changing of the Guard, for free? Boris Bikes | Flickr CC Credit: Gary J. Wood 4. Bike share, old chap. Rent a “Boris Bike” (Santander Cycle, i.e. the red bikes you see everywhere) and take a ride along the South Bank where you can check the time at Big Ben and look upon the London Eye. You’ll only be out £2 for a 24-hour rent. Tube, who? Inside the Globe Theatre | Flickr CC Credit: McKay Savage 5. Standing room tickets at the Globe Theater. Relive your high school Shakespeare days by catching a show at the Globe Theatre and bring your college wallet because you can find standing room tickets for £5 (which also happens to be the best view in the theatre). Tower Bridge at night | Photo courtesy of Monica Pedraja 6. Bridge bargains. Recent updates to Tower Bridge means that you can experience the hustle and bustle of bridge traffic below by walking across a glass floor way up above for only £8. Marylebone Bar | Flickr CC Credit: Ewan Munro 7. Yes, a box of shots. The Marylebone bar will give you a buzz to match the buzzing city with a treasure chest full of shots for just £20. You don’t need all eight, so save yourself a hangover and split the cost with a few friends. Choose from an assortment of infused liquors such as caramel tequila, white chocolate vodka, or chili Nutella cognac. Flickr CC Credit: Mikey 8. Posh threads for less. Primark is like the Forever 21 of London, meaning tons of clothes, shoes and accessories for way cheap. Plus, when your friends ask where your top is from you can say, “I got it in Europe,” to make yourself seem even more trendy. Flickr CC Credit: Viaggio Vero 9. DIY high tea. Sweet-tooth cravings call for a trip to Ben’s cookies where you’ll find flavors like coconut, ginger & dark chocolate, and lemon. Grab a cup of teato-go from Café Nero and you’ve created your own “high tea” for less than £10. Picnic in the park | Photo courtesy of Monica Pedraja 10. Lunch al fresco. Pack a basket and take your pick of London parks to have a picnic. We highly suggest Regent’s Park because after lunch you can escape the city and spend a peaceful afternoon in apaddleboat for just a tenner. View from the Shard | Flickr CC Credit: Raphael Chekroun 11. Buy a cocktail, get a view. Indulge in a cocktail while 1,016 feet inside the tallest building in London and Western Europe, The Shard. Cocktails at Aqua Shard can be costly, but you’ll get a drink and see Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Saint Paul’s Cathedral, which is cheaper than buying the tourist-trap ticket to the top. View of the London Eye | Photo courtesy of Monica Pedraja 12. Twice around the Eye. If you planned on seeing the views from inside of the London Eye, then kill two birds with one stone and invest in the “Day and Night Experience.” This ticket will get you two rotations so you’ll have a lot more bang for your buck. Tagged: City, FREE!, International, Tips & advice, Uncategorized Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Ciara Collins Latest posts by Ciara Collins (see all) London on the cheap - November 5, 2015 Cheapest places to ‘go jump in a lake’ - July 28, 2015 Related Posts Tell us your cheap tips to win a free trip! By Kelsie Ozamiz 7 worthwhile Mexico destinations that aren’t Cancun By Kristen Mitchell The best layover cities in Europe By Krista Burton
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called Cheap Right Now: Rome in September and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2015/09/cheap-right-now-rome-in-september/.CaptchaSubmit Ally MarottiSeptember 2, 2015 Leave a comment Cheap Right Now gives a snapshot of a cheap weekend getaway each month. September in Rome is unmatched. The evenings are becoming cooler, making that glass of red wine on the cafe patio after dinner a little more inviting, but the days are still warm enough to encourage gelato indulgences. Harvest time gives way to festivals honoring the grape, and fall wines are becoming more prevalent. The tourist crowds of summer are subsiding and the Romans are returning from their holidays. Fall is in the air and the city is coming alive again. Related: 7 breath-taking cruise ports around the world Courtesy of Ally Marotti. Plane, train or automobile: When visiting Rome, you’ll likely fly intothe Leonardo Da Vinci Roma – Fiumicino Airport. It’s 16 miles outside the city and connected to Rome by rail and by road. You can hop a train, grab a taxi (make sure it has a meter or it could be a scam) or grab a bus, but the cheapest option is the Terravision bus. It departs from Terminal 3, costs 4 euros one way and will deposit you at Rome’s Termini Station near the city center. If you are coming into Rome from another city, take a train into Termini and see the countryside. It should be beautiful as summer nears its end. Courtesy of Giovanni. Cheap local transit: Once you get into Rome, your cheapest and best mode of transportation is going to be your feet. There is history literally everywhere, and you won’t want to miss a single step of it. Take your time traversing the city and soak in all the sights, sounds and delicious smells wafting out of every cafe and restaurant you pass. If your feet can’t take it any longer, you can resort to Roma Bike Share, but the system has largely been viewed as a failure, according to many reports. If your budget allows it, swing by a bike or scooter rental shop to see the city like a true Roman. Courtesy of Maria Eklind. Wander with wine: If you’re doing Rome right, there will rarely be a moment when you don’t have either a cup of gelato or glass of wine in your hand. It’s no secret that the wine in Italy is unmatched, but there’s another key fact that makes Roman drinking so great: it’s cheap. Indulge in a carafe of house wine during your meals to experience different standards. Indulge in a bottle, some burrata and people watching one afternoon for a cheap lesson on life in Roma. Spanish Steps at night. Courtesy of Ally Marotti. Take a free tour: Multiple companies operate in the city that give free tours of the city. They’re given in English, last about two hours, and dish out history on some of the more famous landmarks—such as the Spanish steps and Trevi Fountain—but also take you through unassuming alleys and buildings chock full of history. Go online to book or swing into one of the local travel agents once you arrive in town to find out a start time and location and just show up. Maybe your tour guide can point you toward his favorite nearby pizza spot. Sagra dell’uva 2012. Courtesy of Brunifia. Foray in the forum: Each September, Sagra dell’uva is held in the Basilica of Constantine in the Forum. It’s a festival honoring the grape, and an honor it deserves, as all the delicious wine offerings will quickly remind you. There are bushels of grapes for sale for those wishing to make their own, and plenty of samplings for others who don’t want to wait that long. Trevi Fountain by night. Courtesy of Ally Marotti. Tango with the Trevi: Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain and it is said you will return to Rome again soon. The fountain lies at the junction of three roads marks the terminal point of an aqueduct that supplied water to ancient Rome. Legend has it that a young girl led thirsty Roman soldiers there for a drink in 19 B.C. It is that scene depicted in stone on the fountain. The only cost you’ll incur enjoying thefountain is the coin you threw into its waters. Tip: Get some gelato from a nearby store and enjoy it by the fountain. View of Saint Peter’s Square from the dome of the basilica. Courtesy of Ally Marotti. Stroll through the square: Saint Peter’s Square, or Piazza San Pietro, expands in front of Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. It’s where people often gather when the Pope speaks, and it’s especially beautiful at night. Grab a bird’s-eye view of the piazza from the top of the dome of the basilica. Courtesy of Rodrigo Soldon. Partake in pasta: It goes without saying that some of the best food in the world can be found in Rome. Any cafe or restaurant will do, but for the authentic tastes that go beyond stereotypical spaghettis and run-of-the-mill rigatonis, go off the main streets. Duck into an assuming cafe off an alley and experience the way Italians really eat, not just the things they make for tourists. Eating off the beaten path will keep the prices lower, too. Tagged: Cheap of the Month, Cheap Tips, City, Family, Festivals, Food & drink, Holidays, International, Last minute travel, Seasonal Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Ally Marotti Latest posts by Ally Marotti (see all) Free tapas: An insider look at Spain’s tastiest dining tradition - October 25, 2016 Cheap Right Now: San Juan, Puerto Rico in October - October 5, 2016 6 cheap hotels in San Diego you’ll actually want to stay in - September 9, 2016 Related Posts Awesome Mardi Gras parties that aren’t in New Orleans By Kelly Aiglon Cheap of the Month: Columbus in July By Ally Marotti St. Louis: The other Mardi Gras By Ally Marotti Adventures with dad: Cheap Father’s Day activities By Ally Marotti
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called 7 breathtaking cruise ports around the world and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2015/01/7-ports-around-the-world-guaranteed-to-leave-you-breathless/.CaptchaSubmit Ally MarottiJanuary 15, 2015 7 Comments It’s “wave season.” That means from January-March every year, cruise lines and cruise distributors offer their cheapest rates in an effort to get people to book their cruises early in the year. Cheap cruises—we’ll take it! Here are some cruise ports that will take your breath away from the deck of the ship as you glide into port. RELATED: Battle of the Beaches: East Coast vs West Coast! Port of Venice, Italy Venice’s grand canal at night. Courtesy of Kosala Bandara. By land or sea, Venice is one of the most beautiful cities you’ll ever see. People visit Venice to see the canals, to eat the food, to experience the culture and learn some history, before it all sinks beneath the Adriatic Sea. But what visitors don’t necessarily expect is how the water weaving between each and every block plays with the light. In the daytime, the blue of the canals contrasts the color of the architecture, making its orange hue even more vibrant. At night, the lights play on the water, dancing and illuminating the canals to the point that almost becomes a second light source. The best time of day, though, is twilight. That time of day when the sun has dipped below the horizon but it’s not quite dark yet. A purple hue falls over the city and envelopes everything in a way you can’t experience anywhere else. Plan a cruise that docks just as the sun sets to experience the magic. Port Vell, Barcelona, Spain A view of Port Vell in Barcelona from Montjuïc. Courtesy of David Merrett. Continuing around from Italy and through the Mediterranean, is Barcelona, the capital of the autonomous region of Catalonia. Barcelona is steeped in history that remains visible today and is evident as soon as your cruise ship begins making its approach toward Barcelona’s Port Vell (that means “old port” in Catalan). If you can peel your eyes away from the beautifully blue Mediterranean waters and palm trees gently blowing in the sea breeze (and maybe a few topless women on a beach nearby, because, well, this is Europe), you’ll be taken aback by Barcelona’s architecture. To your right as you approach the port, you’ll see the outlines of Antoin Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia, the famed yet unfinished church that’s been under construction for decades. To your left, you’ll see the ancient fort perched atop Montjuïc, which served as a lookout for invaders from the sea. The ship will dock at the base of La Rambla, one of the most vibrant and well-known boulevards in the city. When you step onto that Barcelona soil, your adventure really begins. Port Santorini, Greece Santorini port. Courtesy of Shane Gorski. The whitewashed buildings stand out starkly against the vibrant blue of the sky and sea as you approach the Grecian island by way of the Aegean Sea. Tales of Greek monsters are nowhere near your mind as you sail toward Santorini, but you wonder if maybe this is Mt. Olympus because only the gods could tread somewhere this beautiful. The crescent-shaped island is southeast of Greece’s mainland and is the remnants of a volcanic eruption that destroyed the earliest dwellers. As you approach the island’s main port, Athinias, you’ll see the remnants of the centuries-old eruption in the dark, steep cliffs holding up the white towns and villages. Papeete port, Tahiti, French Polynesia Tahitian palm with the island of Moorea in the background. Courtesy of Lori Branham. You may feel as though you’re a castaway finally washing ashore in Tahiti after the hundreds of remote miles you traveled through the South Pacific to arrive. But at least you’ve arrived to paradise. The largest in the Windward group of French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is an explosion of green among the vast blue, with mountains jutting upward and palm trees framing the port. Tiki huts line long docks jutting out into the pristine waters. The island is centered on volcanic mountains, and is famous for its black sand beaches, formed with bits of lava fragments. Much of Tahiti’s beauty also lies beneath its waters. Farming for the Tahitian black pearl is a huge part of the countries economy, and coral reefs surrounding the island teem with colorful wildlife. Misty Fjords port of call, Alaska Misty Fjords, Alaska. Courtesy of Andrew Malone. Although there are dozens of ports of call in Alaska (and most Alaskan cruises hit several per trip), Misty Fjords is not to be missed. The cruise ship is dwarfed by the rising, snow-capped mountains seemingly enveloping the fjord on all sides. A fjord is a narrow inlet lined with steep cliffs that was formed by a glacier. And this one will take your breath away. There are 1,000-foot waterfalls, sheer granite cliffs, pristine lakes and low-hanging mist in this remote section of the Alaskan panhandle. While you are awe-inspired from the landscape, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as bald eagles, grizzly bears and moose peeking out toward the ship. Kona Port, Kailua Kona, Hawaii Kailua-Kona after sunset, with volcanic rocks on the beach in the foreground. Courtesy of Steve Dunleavy. There are about 150 distinct ecosystems throughout the Hawaiian islands, and you’ll be able to see a slew of them as you cruise into the port in Kona. Ships use the port at Kailua Kona, on the western side of the Hawaiian island. The Kona Coast has been distinguished by recent lava flows that continue to build on top of each other. Lush vegetation grows in over the flows as time goes by, making it possible to go from lush vegetation to a landscape of barren, hardened lava just by turning a corner. Some beaches also feature black sand. Whales are likely to be seen on cruises traveling now through April. Reykjavik, Iceland Downtown Reykjavik, Iceland. Courtesy of O Palsson. For being the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik offers some surprising small town charm. Nordic settlers founded the town that has grown up along the pristine Atlantic coastline in 874. Iceland seems to have a little bit of everything, as far as geologic formations go, and cruising into Reykjavik will give you an introductory taste. There are inlets and peninsulas, straits and islands, mountains and glaciers. There are volcanoes and hot springs, ice fields and thermal pools, all engulfed in a bubbling yet sophisticated culture gathered around fresh seafood. Iceland offers snapshots of landscapes that can’t be seen anywhere else in the world, and Reykjavik is the beautiful gateway. Make sure you look up at night for a potential glimpse of the Aurora Borealis. Tagged: Cruise, Family, Hawaii, International Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Ally Marotti Latest posts by Ally Marotti (see all) Free tapas: An insider look at Spain’s tastiest dining tradition - October 25, 2016 Cheap Right Now: San Juan, Puerto Rico in October - October 5, 2016 6 cheap hotels in San Diego you’ll actually want to stay in - September 9, 2016 Related Posts Tell us your cheap tips to win a free trip! By Kelsie Ozamiz Dupe dream vacations: Where to go, for less By Michelle Schuman
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called Cheap flights of the week: Europe and small cities on sale and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2010/06/cheap-flights-of-the-week-europe-and-small-cities-on-sale/.CaptchaSubmit nhahnJune 22, 2010 1 Comment This week we’ve got the spotlight on two flight sales, with cheap fares to far away lands on American Airlines and sweet flights to quaint cities with United Airlines. American Airlines: Europe flights on sale This fall you can fly cheap to Europe with American Airlines. For fantastic flight deals to Madrid, Milan, and more, book your trip by June 30 and travel between October 29, 2010, to December 14, 2010. You’ll enjoy cheap round-trip flights like these: New York City to Milan: $212 Chicago to Frankfurt: $302 Los Angeles to London: $412 United Airlines: Flights to small cities on sale Grab a cheap flight on United Airlines to less frequented, quainter cities like Louisiville, Tampa, and Sacramento. Book by June 23, 2010, and travel through September 3, 2010, for cheap round-trips fares that include: 14, 2010. You’ll enjoy cheap round-trip flights like these: Chicago to Louisville: $162 Sacramento to Colorado Springs: $266 Boston to Jacksonville: $208 See individual flight sales for complete terms and conditions. American Airlines United Airlines More flight deals Tagged: Last minute travel, Limited-time Offers Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts nhahn Latest posts by nhahn (see all) Cheap Miami hotels: Budget glam near SoBe nightlife - March 3, 2011 Last-minute travel deals to 3 big cities - February 22, 2011 Ditch the cold for an easy family getaway to San Diego - February 3, 2011 Related Posts Cheap Right Now: Rome in September By Ally Marotti Hot sun, cool prices: The CheapTickets off-season deals guide By Michelle Schuman
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called Cruises let you see Europe for less and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2008/10/cruises-let-you-see-europe-for-less/.CaptchaSubmit Cristina AlcocerOctober 20, 2008 Leave a comment Cheap cruises from CheapTickets make European vacations easy and affordable. With European cruises, your accommodations and meals are prepaid in U.S. dollars, so you don’t have to worry about the exchange rate. And you’ll visit multiple destinations without having to think about local transportation. Plus, CheapTickets has travel deals on a variety of cruises. Check out these trips: The 12-night Western Mediterranean cruise on the Azamara Journey takes you to Monte Carlo, Florence, Cartagena, Spain and much more. Interior rooms start at just $799. Or choose a verandah room at get $400 in free onboard spending. The Carnival Liberty takes you on a 12 Night Northern Europe cruise, with stops in Amsterdam, St. Petersburg and more. Enjoy an elegant dinner at Harry’s Supper Club, eat at the ship’s sushi bar or try one of the many other dining options. Interior rooms start at $1,149. CheapTickets has cruises to Europe starting for as little as $399 for a seven night Western Mediterranean cruise from Norwegian Cruise Line. So explore Barcelona, Rome or the Greek Isles — all with the luxury and comfort of one of our cheap cruises. CheapTickets resources: 12 Night Western Mediterranean cruise 12 Night Northern Europe cruise Europe cruise deals Tagged: Cruise, International Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Cristina Alcocer Latest posts by Cristina Alcocer (see all) Cheap hotels for your Canada vacation - June 24, 2009 Weekly travel deals: Save to New York, San Francisco - June 23, 2009 Cheap hotels in New York, Miami, Vancouver - June 19, 2009 Related Posts
Shares0Share with your friendsYour NameYour EmailRecipient EmailEnter a MessageI read this article and found it very interesting, thought it might be something for you. The article is called Lufthansa has cheap flights to Europe and is located at https://www.cheaptickets.com/blog/2008/08/lufthansa-has-cheap-flights-to-europe/.CaptchaSubmit Cristina AlcocerAugust 13, 2008 Leave a comment Want to travel to Europe this fall? You can, with cheap flights on Lufthansa. Imagine strolling along the streets of London, sitting in a Paris cafe or enjoying the art and architecture of Amsterdam. These cheap tickets make it easy to travel to cities throughout Europe. Check out these sample flights: Atlanta to Amsterdam: $693 Houston to London: $632 New York City to Frankfurt: $456 Orlando to Paris: $708 These cheap flights are for travel August 18 through October 26, 2008 and December 12 – 24, 2008. Sample airfares don’t include taxes and some fees. Cheap tickets like these are available for a limited time; the Lufthansa sale ends August 20. So don’t wait. Make your Europe travel plans now. CheapTickets resources: Cheap flights to Europe Tagged: City, Flights, FREE!, International, Limited-time Offers Note: CheapTickets compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site. Bio Latest Posts Cristina Alcocer Latest posts by Cristina Alcocer (see all) Cheap hotels for your Canada vacation - June 24, 2009 Weekly travel deals: Save to New York, San Francisco - June 23, 2009 Cheap hotels in New York, Miami, Vancouver - June 19, 2009 Related Posts The best layover cities in Europe By Krista Burton