Shopping

The word that makes the women folks go gaga is shopping! And Christmas does call for immense shopping. You wait for the entire year for this festival and when it is finally here, nothing can stop you from making the move. Don’t forget to make a list of all the prime requirements of shopping so that you don’t miss out on any of it. Our suggestion is that you start making the list atleast a month before the Christmas hullabaloo begins, for you tend to miss out on a lot of things in the nick of time. Another great day to shop is on the Boxing Day which is right after Christmas. Though post Christmas, the Boxing Day in London is definitely a piece of cake. Visit West End, Covent Garden,Westfield,Harrods, Selfridges, John Lewis, Sloane Street or Mayfair and other departmental stores where you are sure to get some amazing discounts. Further, with digital being the in thing today, online shopping is another great option if you know how to look out for the best deals and sales.

Stroll around the city streets

New York is one of those cities that turn into a fairyland during the Christmas season. It exhibits an extremely spectacular sight with lights and candies and red caps dangling from almost everywhere. A very popular activity people love getting indulged in during Christmas is ice skating and what better place to go for it than the Rink at Rockefeller Centre that opened on the day of Christmas itself way back in the year 1936.

Taste the Christmas food!

Christmas means merriment and what is merriment without food. Sizzling sausages, gingerbread and mulled wine fill the streets of Germany with a dose of Gemutlichkeit (winter cheer) as they call it. If you set foot in Paris to witness the Big Wheel at Place de la Concorde which is set up every year during Christmas, then you must definitely not miss the food in Courchevel. As you enjoy skiing in the resorts here, take a break from the adrenaline rush and let your hungry soul relish the authentic French cuisine here such as Raclette, fondue, etc.

 Have some family time

What better way to spend the Christmas than spending some cherished family time. When everybody today has turned mechanical with the phone and other gadgets replacing friends and family, Christmas is the time to make up for all those lost moments throughout the year. Wear the Xmas jumper, watch some great classic movies, eat some popcorn, cook Christmas meal together and give that ultimate kiss to your loved one under the mistletoe. We assure you that It would definitely turn out to be one of the best Christmases for you ever.

Dig into the Romanian History

The historic significance of Rome is tremendous and once you get the hang of it, you would love to delve more into it. Amidst the colosseum and churches and other ancient museums, Rome offers you one of the best walking tours you will not find in any other location. Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica, MichaelAngelo’s Chapel are only some of the architectural extravaganzas that you will witness as you stroll through the streets of Rome.

Train tours in Europe

Train journey in Europe is a compulsory activity. It is a delight in itself as you go through the landscapes of the towns and feel the real essence of natural beauty. The sight of the mountains sprinkled with snow here and there or the beautiful autumn seasoned trees as you pass through them, is something you would cherish forever. The Dublin rail tour is one of the most popular railway tour in Europe.

 Witness the northern lights

A sight of wonder: the Northern Lights is a show of the dancing lights also known as Aurora Borealis. Reykjavik gives the best show of Northern Lights and Iceland welcomes the tourists with open arms presenting them not only with the northern lights but also other local activities you would never regret.

Experience the live cultural shows

Europe is a casket of cultural treasures and the cultural ethnicity has been kept alive through years through art. Art is a respected form here and hence one can see many art and culture programs, museums, workshops, courses, etc. here. Paris, Venice, Vatican City, London, ancient Rome, Greece, Pompeii and so many other places are here, wherein history lovers would go berserk once they visit and smell the essence of art and history here.

Take a castle tour

Castles are huge and seeing them from near is a magnificent experience. Europe is home to the most magnanimous castles you will ever see in history. The castles here date back to as much as the 12^th century and still stand erect with virility. Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany), Chenonceau Castle (France), Alcázar of Segovia (Spain), Moszna Castle (Poland) are only a few of the hundred others.

Taste the drinks of Europe

Europe is the home to some of the most popular alcoholic beverages. Wines of Italy and beers of Germany is something you would love to taste. In Italy wine tasting is a custom and you can never resist yourself from having a sip of the famous Tuscan wine. Germany on the other hand, produces the best beer and you’re in for a treat if you can visit the Oktoberfest here.

Discover the adventurer in you

Europe gives you the best sports adventures you have ever heard of, be it in the waters, snow, dirt, air or straight up on land.  Europeans are somewhat fearless who loves to try anything adventurous like true daredevils. If you have even an ounce of adventure blood in you then you will love Europe.

Taste the delicious cuisines here

Travelling is incomplete without the right kind of food. In Europe, there are so many old recipes that have been passed on through generations and today when you visit the region you will be bowled over by the ethnic dishes offered to you starting from Italian to Mexican to French and American food.

Take a Road trip

Road trips are heaven for those who don’t consider driving a chore and when that road trip is blessed with beautiful landscape and scenery, it is magical. With some of the most spectacular views in Europe, road trips in Austria, France, Germany, Iceland, and Ireland are truly exotic.

Get a beach tan

With some incredible beaches spread over the continent, lying on the sand and getting tanned on the European beaches is a treat to oneself. Amalfi Coast, Cala Macarella, Stiniva Beach, Concha, Apela Beach are just a few of the majestic beaches in Europe.

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The Northern Lights – an affair of the paradise witnessed commonly in the arctic regions is worth a lifetime that everyone must experience. Every performance of the lights is a different show that not only leaves you awestruck but also uplifts you spiritually. The dance of the vivid colours, as you stare at the sparkling sky is definitely a delight. The northern lights have grabbed intense attention lately owing to its increasing popularity. Social media and other digital form of communication has made it easier for people to know and learn about this extravagant phenomena pushing them to visit the places exhibiting it more with every passing year.

Formation of the northern lights is due to the collision of charged particles of the sun with the atoms of the earth’s atmosphere and before this was learnt, local legends came up with creative stories explaining the presence of the phenomenon. Locals of Greenland in fact believed that the lights were spirits of their ancestors visiting them once a while. In Churchill, Canada, the northern lights can be seen dancing on road from the car itself and even from certain places in continental US like Pennsylvania, the lights are visible. The Cherry Springs State Park has been given the highest designation for a dark sky site by International Dark Sky Association. This refers to the fact that the pollution here is minimal thus making the phenomenon of the sky much clearer and vivid.

The best time to witness the Aurora Borealis, the name by which it is more popularly known, is from September to early April with the period between October and November and February and March being the best. This is the time for Iceland or northern Scandinavia. Aurora Borealis also has its southern counterpart which is known as the Aurora Australis. Some of the best places to witness this magnificence are northwestern parts of Canada, Alaska, Yukon, southern tip of Iceland and Greenland. The lights are seen in the most undiluted manner in places where pollution is less. As you travel farther towards north, the viewing spots get better.

At night during the hours from 9 PM to 2 AM, the northern lights are best viewed. This is the prime time to witness the performance of the swirling lights. Hotels and resorts in the areas also provide for alarm systems for you to wake up so that you don’t have to stay up all night waiting for the lights to appear. At sub-zero temperature sitting outside and staring at the dazzling sky is something you would love doing here.

However, without intending to discourage anyone, it would be clever not to expect too much from the visit as the northern lights are not always a guaranteed affair. Getting obsessed to the idea of northern lights must not be the plan but rather to enjoy and witness the thrills of the place and make the arctic holiday a trip to remember.

Girdwood, Alaska

Located at the foot of the famed Chugach Mountains, Girdwood has been re-styled so as to turn it into one of the most chic skiing towns in Alaska. With people of all ages flocking to this part of the town since the 1970s, this tiny town with a resident of just 2000 in numbers can be considered to be the hub of all skiing towns. The international airport is not very far from it, thus making the accessibility of the place much easier. Though there are a few spots for the beginners to land in Girdwood, yet the experts can get the best out of the skiing lanes.

Zermat, Switzerland

When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, how can we even rule out Switzerland? And with Switzerland being filled with arrays of skiing locations, we have come down to the place called Zermatt. Two ski zones of Zermatt are in fact across the Italian border. Not only are the sceneries here stunning but so is skiing with high vertical drops across the terrain. The highest ride in the Alps, Matterhorn Glacier Paradise cable car is one place you ought not to miss.

Chamonix, France

When you think of extreme skiing, you would commit a crime if you do not think of Chamonix. With some of the steepest terrains that is lethal if you even curve an angle wrong, Chamonix is considered to be the birthplace of extreme skiing with vertical drops as high as 9000 feet to be found. Located in a valley that falls in the trisection area of France, Italy and Switzerland, it is shadowed by the Alps. A classic mountain village in France, it also offers you a high spirited night life and some scrumptious dishes.

Kitzbühel, Austria

Located in Austria’s Tyrol region, Kitzbuhel hosts some of the most extensive skiing range in the Alps. Intermediates are in here for a ride as there a lot of long cruisers in here. It is however highly advised to check with the locals for conditions as poor coverage is a high possibility owing to the lower slopes. The place also offers some amazing restaurants, chic clubs and bars to get cozy around and with a few drinks in hand.

Verbier, Switzerland

With as many as 80+ ski lifts, 30+chairlifts, 50+ surface lifts and 10 gondolas, this place is said to have the highest domain when it comes to lift-linked skiing. Verbier offers some terrific terrains for beginners, intermediates and experts as well. The resorts available here is to add to your luxury stay providing you with 5-star hotel rooms and its comforts.

Courchevel, France

A part of Les Trois Vallées, the largest connected ski areas of the world, Courchevel in France is considered to have some of the most premium class resorts of France. The pleasant and clean view around the area adds a sense of serenity letting the ski enthusiasts enjoy the sport and the landscape at the same time.

And if we get on with the count, there are many places in Europe itself that has been attracting thousands of visitors every year so as to taste the thrill of skiing on the mountains. Some of the other places you can check out are Niseko (Japan), Aspen (Colorado), Whitefish (Montana), Bend (Oregon), Taos (New Mexico),  Park City (Utah) and many more.

Prague

The streets of history, the gothic architecture, cathedrals, holiday markets and so much more; Prague is the magical land during the winter season. Prague is considered one of the best places to visit during the season of Christmas. With myriads of things that can be done in Prague in the winters, some of the things you must not miss are a stroll on the Charles Bridge that has secured a spot in everybody’s minds with its serene view, dinner amidst a Mozart performance, walking across the Prague Castle, visiting the infamous X beer 33 and having a sip at this 550 years old institution and many others.

Edinburgh

Hogmanay: one of the most popular fests in Scotland held at Edinburgh is a spot for major attraction in the winter season. The Scottish way of celebrating the inception of the New Year, people get into an extremely suave and merry mood during this period. Strolling around the capital city of Scotland during this period is in itself a sight of joy as you make your rounds around architectural delights of the Georgian history, the castles, coves, palaces and monuments.

Tromso

When you think of Norway, what comes to mind are the northern lights and what better place to observe this majestic phenomenon than Tromso. Located in the northern part of the Arctic circle, Tromso attracts hundreds of tourists from September to March, which is the peak season when the northern lights display its exceptional magnificence. Apart from witnessing the stupefying light miracles, there are many activities you can try out here in Tromso, look around the museums, botanical gardens and check out their local craftworks as well.

 Courchevel

With over 100 ski runs, Courchevel in France stands in the center of French Alps. With the right kind of slope for all levels of skiers right from novice to an expert, the courses here are extremely popular. The town turns into a winter playground for people of all classes who flock to this place to enjoy the activities and the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes.

Salzburg

The place where Mozart lived around 250 years ago, Salzburg sits on the border of Germany with a view towards the Eastern Alps. Famous for its baroque architecture, it is the fourth largest city of Austria. The classic essence of the place along with the flowing Salzach river beside, Salzburg has been the set of the movie The Sound of Music which is considered commendable for its surrounding fortresses and mountains. Salzburg tales you to a different level with its scenery, music, history and of course the beautiful skyline.

Ibiza

One of the most popular islands, Ibiza is an archipelago of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout the year, Ibiza let’s you feel the essence of beach life with its activities, nature flash and of course the wild parties. Adventure lovers are in for a surprise here in Ibiza as there definitely are a lot to be tried over here starting from trekking, caving, hiking, water sports, scuba-diving and others.

Bora Bora

The turquoise paradise in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is one of the most popular islands around the globe. This ravishing island is famous for its water activities like diving, snorkeling, scuba diving owing to its beautiful reefs and crystal clear water. The island houses some of the most luxurious resorts you can find in this part of the world. With full pockets, you can definitely opt for this magical island, hide out in the bungalows that stands atop the water and taste what you call life with the sound of the sea sloshing against you eardrum.

Ko Phi Phi

The largest island of the Phi Phi Islands, Ko Phi Phi is a small archipelago that has been pulling tourists from around the world since people learnt about it. The beach is neither a crowded one nor is it very lonely but fits perfectly if you want to just stare at the setting sun and reminisce on some of the best times of your life. You can visit this island with your partner or you friends, either way Koh Phi Phi would mesmerize you.

Whitsunday Islands

When we talk of islands, not mentioning Australia would definitely be a sin! By far the most popular islands of Australia, Whitsunday islands are the tropical island fantasy for every beach connoisseur. As you set your eyes on the blue coral sea, you can’t help but dive into it and feel every single nerve of your body respond to the warmth of the ocean. Located in the east coast of Australia, the island has interesting trails, hiking spots, diving locations and above all, breathtaking views. The islands make for the perfect luxury escapes that you have been craving for, all this time.

Jordan

An unusual place yet this place never fail to amuse you. Built in 300 BC, Petra is one of the most famed archaeological sites that have historians going crazy to study the place. There are places you ought to visit here in Jordan, such as Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, Roman theatre, Amman Citadel, Kerak Castle and others.

Reykjavik

One of the most sought after spots to visit today, Reykjavik is becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Who doesn’t know about the northern lights? And when you do, how can you not witness it standing right there and staring at those glaring lights dancing in the sky. The northern lights are one of nature’s most beautiful jewels and you definitely must witness it in your lifetime.

Santorini

The star of the Greek islands, Santorini is the first name that comes when you talk of islands and beaches and sand and palm trees. White-washed buildings and the turquoise blue water beating against the gleaming sands instantly gives you the feeling of the Greek islands. The uniqueness of Santorini is hard to ignore and all the sunsets, swimming and the mesmerising views you get here steals your breath away leaving you gazing at infinity as time stops by.

Kyoto

The capital of Japan for over 1000 years, Kyoto has stood the storms of time and is a well preserved city today. Witnessing the World War II, Japan has seen the worst and still diligently welcomes tourists with open arms and you would never be disheartened on visiting this place of awe and amazement. With a rich cultural history, Kyoto has much to offer from its Buddhist temples to the Shinto Shrines and the famous Japanese cuisines.

St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg in Russia, one of the most sought after places when it comes to architecture, does have its own charm and ancestry. There are indeed a lot of places in St. Petersburg that you would love to stroll around and dedicate some time to the magnificence of art and admire it wholeheartedly. Peterhof Palace, Winter Palace, Hermitage Museum and Peter & Paul Fortress are only a few of the many places to visit here.

Amalfi Coast

You won’t know what ‘stunning’ is unless you visitAmalfi coast. One of Italy’s priceless treasures, Amalfi Coast has been the object of awe for millions since ages. With a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean landscape, Italy boasts of this heavenly beauty to which tourists can’t help but reciprocate by stepping into this magical land. There are many great places you would die for here such as the Positano, Cetera, Sorrento and Atrani amongst others.

With so many countries to visit and explore, these are not even one tenth of it leaving you with a hundred other places to visit. So, as the search for the most popular places continue, the decision is always yours to opt for where you would find your peace and serene.

A trip to some of the best vineyards across the globe calls for lush green surroundings and getting tipsy on heavenly wine collections.

Beaujolais, France

A region which once got mentioned as part of Burgundy, Beaujolais has marked its own appellation owing to the distinct Gamay Noir grapes, which is used for the wines in the region. This place produces mostly Red Wines along with the popular Beaujolais Nouveau. The craze for Beaujolais Nouveau hypes up every year during November, when it is released for sale. The light fruity Red wines of the region are almost sold out during the same year of harvest.

Loir-et-cher, France

Loir-et-cher is not only known for its vineyards, but also the splendid landscape with rich culture fills the air of the region. Covering the Loir valley, known as the Garden of France, the region offers light fruity red wines produced from Gamay Grapes of Cher Valley.

Madrid, Spain

The region has a long history of wine making dating back to as early as the 8^th century. Once known for being a bulk producer of wine, wine makers in the region have transitioned to producing better quality wines and have slowly started to gain a reputation for it. The vineyards around Madrid are covered under the designation of Vinos de Madrid.

When in Vinos de Madrid, go for the white wines made from Mavar and albillo and Red wine made from Garnacha. These are few of the most popular varieties found here.

Island of Hvar, Croatia

Entitled to a proud history of wine-making, Island of Hvar continues to attract visitors owing to its vineries. You may visit the breathtaking village any time of the year but a visit in August will lead you to enjoy the yearly Wine festival that they hold. Apart from that, wine tours around the vineyards are surely a delight as you get to experience wines produced from nearly 130 indigenous grapes.

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is home to some of the notable wine regions such as Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico, Nobile di Montepulciano, Vernaccia di san Gimignano and Carmignano. Wine tasting out here is an indulgent affair, as you get to take in the essence of carefully aged wines along with freshly baked bread. It is the perfect match for food and wine lovers.

Tokaj, Hungary

Hungary itself can be better referred to as the old wine world. And when we speak of Tokaj, we are talking of the gold standard of wine regions in the country. The region is famous for its special sweet red wine – Tokaji and dry white wine – Furmint. These extremely sweet wines contain high acidity which balances the flavor. The next time you are at Hungary, make sure to visit Tokaj, and try one of the delectable wines with cream cheese or lemon tarts.

Yarra Valley, Australia

Home to some of the high profile wineries in the world Yarra Valley is the ultimate wine destination for any wine lover. If Chardonnay, sparkling white wine and Pinot Noir is your favourite, wine touring in the area can be a spectacular treat. From several award winning wineries in the region, you can choose the next best destination for a remarkable wine tour.

The next time you are in one of these places, be sure to check out the amazing vineyards and meet the respective wine makers along the way. Apart from these places, Argentina, Germany, South Africa, etc are also known for their wine regions. You may uncover the aromatic wine essence of these places as well!

Italian food is loved around the globe and when we talk of the food in Florence, well, let’s just get to that to know all about it. There are some of the finest restaurants you will find in Florence that serves you the most delectable dishes you would love gorging on.

Ristorante Buca Mario in Florence is one of the most recommended dining places which has been serving excellent recipes since its inception. The chefs here prepare homemade pasta, bread and other delicacies and bring to your table some mouth watering dishes like spaghetti, tartufo, lasagna, spaghettini, risotto and others. Ristorante Buca Lapi is another heavenly place you simply can’t afford to miss as the place has some of the best steaks in all of Florence. Founded in 1880, it is the oldest restaurant in Florence, thus instilling the genuineness and the authentic taste of true Tuscan cuisine. Located on the green hills of Fiesole, La Reggia degli Etruschi is a fantastic place to dine with your friends and family when you make the visit to Florence. The best part about this restaurant is the breath taking view you get of Florence from atop the hill located only around 7 kms from the historic centre of Florence. Enoteca Pinchiorri is a 3 star awarded restaurant by the Michelin guide, and is widely popular as the luxury place at the highest level in Italy.

And then if you are wondering what are the bars to visit in Florence then we do have some great suggestions as well. Enjoying the scenic view of the Tuscan terrain, you can have a glass of old wine and relish the beauty outside at Sesto on Arno. The restaurant has a unique setting in the heart of Florence serving you some of the most elegant and exquisite dishes of Italy. The rooftop bar is the perfect location to have a drink or two with your loved ones. Another favorite in Florence is Harry’s Bar wherein you can enjoy your drink amidst the serenity of the Arno river.

Places in Florence you can go out for lunch are Fishing Lab Alle Murate, La Bottega Del Buon Caffè, Lungarno, Caffè Gilli, Coquinarius and so many more. These are some of the top rated restaurants in Florence that have been loved over time by the visitors and stand as some of the most popular food joints in Florence.

With Malini’s favorites being revealed, make Florence one of the to-visit locations in your check list and do not miss the above mentioned place, you are sure to be swept off your feet with the elegance, landscape and the cuisines of this exotic place.

Italy

September seems to be the best season for the Italians they make their return from their vacations and gear up for celebrations ahead. With the first Sunday of The month summers come to an end and then starts the season of small food festivals. September sets the base for the bigger food festivals in October to start. Known for its famous Italian food festivals, October is perhaps the best month for foodies to plan a trip to Italy.

Mexico

With its diverse landscape of mountains, forests, deserts and of course the beaches, Mexico leaves you with an undying thirst to explore more of its places. The rich cultural heritage of Mexico mingled with the stunning sandy coastlines and the endless horizon with the beautiful sunset is something you will not witness anywhere else. The historic sites in Mexico such as the Mayan and Aztec sites which are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be a vital part of your visit to Mexico in the summers. Other popular places like the Grand Canyon, Puerto Vallarta, Tulum are worth visiting.

New York

The vacation possibilities in New York is infinite and when its summer, well there is no way you will not love this place! Whether you visit alone, with friends or family, New York has the right kind of spots for everyone. The top occasions to celebrate in September and October are NYC Food and Wine Festival, Newyork Coffee festival, Oktoberfest and Labor day.So, if you are really looking for a place to treat your taste buds like never before, New York is the place for you.

Ibiza

One of the most popular islands, Ibiza is an archipelago of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its awesome nightlife Ibiza even has a lot adventure to offer. From trekking to cave parties Ibiza hosts it all with great ardency. With October as the clubbing season comes to an end the entire city seems to be submerged in the party spirit.

France

The hub of wine and cheese, France is listed as one of the top destinations for tourists in the world. With a count of above 80 million tourists every year, the numbers says it all! The main attraction in October is the festival celebrating the grape harvest   which is now a tradition which has been kept very much alive and well.It is one of the most awaited events which is all about tastingwine and fine food.