Expert Advice For An Exceptional International Excursion

Picture Source

Whether you’re new to exploring or you’re planning yet another crazy trip to foreign shores, there’s always more you could do to ensure that you have a fantastic experience. We’re talking about both the boring side of planning ahead and the exciting things you can do on your actual travels. Maybe you and your friends are eager to take another wild trip to a new place or a familiar destination that you need to revisit. However, before you book a spontaneous flight, here’s some expert advice for an exceptional international excursion. Try saying that after a few drinks.

Research the destination (or destinations) in question.

Boring, right? Well, as mentioned in the introduction, planning ahead is still a crucial part of ensuring you have a fantastic trip. Being spontaneous is fun, but it can also lead to disappointment. After all, you can most likely only afford to travel for a certain amount of time (unless you’re rich or you don’t have to go back to your job). So, you want to make sure you see everything that a certain place has to offer. If you do the boring planning before you travel then you’ll be able to relax and have fun on your trip. And you won’t be worrying about whether you can actually see everything in time.

You should do some online research to find any places that you might not have thought to visit in a particular location. You might even find some hidden gems if you look in the right places. You should check out expertvagabond.com for an expert’s opinion on the best things to do in destinations all over the world. You can avoid wasting time traipsing around a new place by simply finding out what you need to see in the cities or towns you’re planning on exploring. Researching the destination or destinations you plan on visiting could really help you to make the most of your time there.

Travel in exciting ways.

Why travel in an ordinary way? If you want an exceptional international excursion then think outside the box. Maybe you’re going on a trip for a friend’s bachelor party, so you could arrange for a limo to pick you up from the airport. If it’s a romantic trip then you could arrange for a hot air balloon ride to really impress your significant other. As suggested on our website, you could even take a helicopter to reach your intended destination. It doesn’t even need to be a trip you take for a practical purpose. You can take helicopter rides through the Grand Canyon and around the city of London. Transport can do more than simply getting you from point A to point B; it can be a fun way to explore an area from a different perspective. Think outside the box if you want to travel in exciting ways. See? Planning ahead doesn’t always have to be boring.

Picture Source

Plan out a travel playlist.

Whether it’s music for the car during a road trip or music to keep you occupied during a long flight, don’t underestimate the power of a great playlist. As mentioned at wikihow.com, it can make the trip particularly special for you and a partner if you compile a playlist of songs that are meaningful to you and your SO. But it can also be particularly fun for you and a group of friends if you create a hype playlist. A road trip down Route 66 sounds fun, but imagine that same road trip with your favorite tunes blasting out of the speakers.

How To Occupy Yourself When Traveling

Image Credit

Whilst visiting new places is great fun, the actual getting there usually isn’t so much fun – especially if this involves things like long plane journeys, hours in airports or other not-so-enjoyable parts of trying to get to your ultimate destination.

The good news is, you don’t have to suffer from complete boredom whilst traveling – especially not these days with the amount of things that can be taken with you on board planes that don’t take up any additional space.

Download movies:

Although if you’re on a long-haul flight you’ll have the opportunity to watch in-flight movies from the screen at the back of the seat in front of you, but they’re not always the best movies and even if they are, if you’re someone who travels often then there’s a good chance you’ve already watched them. A good way to keep yourself entertained with movies and shows you actually want to watch is just to bring your own. You can do this by downloading them onto your tablet through something like iTunes, Google Play Store, or even directly from Netflix. If you don’t already have Netflix, but would like to start using it, then it’s a good idea to download it before you go because the content available in each country is different and the costs will be in the local currency so you could end up paying more thanks to the currency exchange when using your card from back home. You can look at How much Netflix costs in other countries.

Load up on podcasts:

If you’re not a movie person, then podcasts are a great way to go that will keep you entertained for a long time during even the longest of journeys. You can search places like the in-built podcast app on iOS devices and search across every imaginable category before downloading them to listen to later even if you have no internet connection.

Clear your digital clutter:

Do you have a laptop or cloud storage full of files that are all over the place? Travel – especially on longer trips is the perfect excuse to tackle some of that stuff you’ve been putting off and finally get things organized if you’ve not had the time to do it at home or when working.

Catch up on work:

Just as using a long journey is the perfect time to get yourself organized and cut some clutter from your life, it’s also a great time to get focused on doing some work that needs to get done. Especially when flying since you’re not going to face the same interruptions that you would when trying to work elsewhere. One of the best things about working on a plane is that once you land, then you can concentrate on enjoying your trip or just catching up on some sleep.

Bring a good book:Books are still one of the best ways to make the time pass during a long journey, so whether it’s in physical or digital form, then if you’re looking to keep yourself entertained during your travels then a good book is a great way to go.

Can You Afford Your Dream Trip?

We all have that one dream trip which we would love to take, and the truth is that having that in the back of your mind can be a great thing to aim for when you are thinking about traveling. But there is one aspect of that kind of traveling which is always going to be a concern, and it’s this: can you manage to afford it? The very nature of a dream trip is (usually) that it is going to be fancy or at least extensive, and so, therefore, it is likely to cost a lot of money ultimately. Fortunately, there are some things you can look into to make sure that you are much more likely to be able to afford your dream trip, and you should never feel as though all is lost. In this post, we will look at a number of the things you can consider doing in order to make sure you can afford your own dream trip.

pexels-photo-239520

Pic Credit

Budget It Out Fully

First things first, you need to make sure that you have actually planned out the likely cost as well as possible, as otherwise, it is much harder to know whether or not you are going to be able to afford it at all. If you are only guessing, then you can’t really expect to get on top of it is the way you would like, so it’s important to sit down with your itinerary and actually thoroughly research the likely costs involved. Do that, and you will be much less likely to bury your head in the sand, as well as being more likely to be able to plan your finances for that trip well enough. This is an important first step which you should not overlook if you really want to make it work as well as possible.

Considering Credit

One of the most common ways that people manage to afford their dream holidays and travels is of course by using credit. Although this might not be the ideal way, it is one manner in which you can hope to afford whatever kind of enjoyment and luxury you really want, so it is definitely a good idea to look into at least. As long as you think that you are likely to be accepted for a card, and as long as you are able to pay it back in full in good time, you should be able to consider this option well enough. You will also want to think about trying to protect yourself from credit card fraud, which can be especially likely when you are traveling, by possibly using a protection service like Lifelock. The Lifelock price is not too bad, so you know that it is going to be worth it.

pexels-photo-450441

Pic Credit

TweaksFinally, remember that sometimes all you need to do really is make a few adjustments here and there, and in that way, you can hopefully make the cost of your trip much less overall. These tweaks should be done carefully, so as to make things cheaper while still allowing it to be the trip of your dreams – and as long as you get that right, you will find that it really does work.

JORD watch – the perfect gift

The perfect wooden watch

I am so in love with my timeless master piece from JORD! Their collection is outstanding, made by hand using raw materials and designed to perfection. View more of their beautiful designs here.

CASSIA

We so many beautiful designs to choose from I had a difficulty in choosing right away! Eventually I settled on the gorgeous Cassia design, in olive and aegean blue and could not be happier with my choice. This watch has become a staple to my wardrobe and can be dressed up or down. It really adds a touch of elegance. It has also become a new favorite travel accessory, I take it everywhere!

As described by Jord “The Cassia is a timepiece that transcends the simple categorization of a watch. Intelligent design pairs with classic styling to create a piece worthy of your wrist and welcome in your jewelry wardrobe. The full Roman numeral concave dial in the JORD collection is beautifully reflected in our domed sapphire glass. The metal and wood link interlaced band integrates seamlessly into the rounded case. The Cassia Olive & Aegean Blue is the ideal bijoux for your bohemian collection”.

Giveaway!

A JORD watch is the perfect gift for the holiday season! For family members, friends and even one for yourself!

For your chance to to win, enter the giveaway > here < One lucky winner will be chosen at the end of the contest to receive a $100.00 off gift code to spend on a JORD watch of choice, which is a pretty amazing if you ask me! Though there can only be one winner, every person that enters the giveaway will receive a $10 off gift code to apply towards a purchase of choice, so really entering is a win win. Good luck 🙂

Preparing for a Road Trip Adventure

california-road-highway-mountains-63324

Image Source

Road trips are experiencing a spike in popularity. This isn’t all too surprising. It’s an extremely liberating way to travel the world and allows you to see all sorts of beautiful scenery and landscapes along the way. However, it’s extremely important that you prioritise your health, safety, and wellbeing at all times when you take to the open road. Here are just a few pieces of advice that can help to improve your journey!

Driving Responsibly

Whenever you take to the road, you need to be a responsible driver. But this takes a little more attention when you are driving in unfamiliar territory. When you are traversing long distances on roads that you haven’t travelled on before, you are going to have to be a lot more vigilant with keeping an eye on street signs, road markings, and lanes. When you conduct a road trip, you are also likely to spend longer periods of time than usual behind the wheel. Stay alert by taking breaks as and when needed. You could also consider partnering up with someone else who can drive during your trip, which will allow you to share driving responsibilities with someone else.

Knowing What to Do in an Incident

If you spend more time on the roads, you are more likely to witness or be involved in some sort of road incident. It’s important that you know what to do if you do find yourself in a road accident of any sort. The first step that you need to take is to stop your vehicle. Then check whether you are well and uninjured. If you aren’t injured, check everyone else involved. If you or anyone else is injured, call for medical assistance. You may want to seek legal help for car crash victims down the line. If nobody is injured, exchange insurance details and take photographs of any damage to the vehicles involved.

Avoiding Hitchhikers

It’s relatively easy to understand why some people choose to pick up hitchhikers. They tend to be relatively vulnerable looking individuals who simply want to get from A to B. Generally, they have no other means of getting around and many people consequently take pity on them and take it upon themselves to reduce the distance that they have to walk by picking them up and dropping them off along the route they’re already travelling. If you are travelling alone, a hitchhiker might also seem like welcome company and conversation. However, by picking up hitchhikers, you place yourself in an extremely vulnerable situation. You, too, will be in a confined space with an absolute stranger. You can never truly know that this individual is going to be a good person with no bad intentions. Generally speaking, it’s best to avoid picking up hitchhikers at all costs.

These are just a few different pieces of advice to bear in mind when preparing your next road trip adventure!

Your Next Holiday Will Be Your Best

We’re predicting it for you right now. Your next holiday is more than likely going to be your best, and it definitely won’t be your last. We’ve sai more than likely, because a lot of you might just disregard the information we’re about to list below for you. But what you don’t realise is that the information listed below for you is the key to a better holiday. Everyone deserves to have one of those holidays that is just a cut above the rest every once in a while as well. The ones where you sit and think, ‘omg, as if we just had a holiday like that!’. If you haven’t thought that before, and the most you think is that you’ve got an excellent tan from sitting on the beach all day, then times are seriously about to change for you. We love holidays, we love everything about them. Which is why we don’t want you to to miss out on making sure that your next holiday is definitely your best! Have a read on, and totally transform the way that you think about going on holiday.

Image Source

Think Outside The Box

If you don’t think outside the box with your holiday, you’re always going to go for the same type of holiday. Let us demonstrate. We bet that the first thing you do when thinking about taking a trip abroad, is open up your laptop, and go straight to the tour operator that you trust the most. Or, you’ll walk into your local travel agents, and you’ll sit down with the same traveller advisor that you always do, and book the same kind of holiday. Well, now we think it’s time for you to think outside of the box just a little bit. To come up with something that will change the way you view holidays. One way we think you should do that is by booking everything separate. You wouldn’t believe the amount of luxury hotels that are out there, but just don’t connect themselves with the tour operators you use. Not only could you save a hell of a lot of money by doing this, you’re also just experiencing something a little more unique in a way. You could even search for your own apartment to rent out for the duration of your trip, and then go self catered. To some of you, going self catered is like the antichrist of a holidays. You want to be waited on, right? Well, who is to say that you can’t go out for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and experience some of the finest foods that you definitely wouldn’t get to experience if you were to go self catered.

Treat Yourself To Something Fancy

Again, something you probably don’t do. It’s not often that the all inclusive options you go for will usually offer something fancy, so it’s time to go out there and find it for yourself. There are so many different excursions that will allow you to experience something a little upmarket. Yes, we are implying that you should get off your bum, and go out and do something! If you have a look at this blog, you will find a review of some of the best wineries in Napa Valley. Now, even if wine tasting just isn’t your thing, it’s definitely something that you should be considering. The views you get are absolutely amazing, and a lot of these excursions actually come as a package. You get to try some nice food, you get a tour round all of the winery, and you obviously get to try some amazing wine. They’re usually not that expensive either, and most of the time they’re an all day thing in the blazing hot sun. If you want a bit of fine dining and elegance, we would definitely recommend giving a trip to a winery a go.

As well as this, you could think about treating yourself to a little shopping trip. If you don’t go on holiday and buy something for yourself from the shops, are you really holidaying right? The shops abroad seem to have so many choices, and you’ll find brands that you’re not usually used to wearing. There’s just something so exciting about going on holiday and going on a little shopping trip, more so than if you were to go shopping when you’re back at home. Top tip, the jewelry always seems to be more flashy, yet cheaper, in countries such as the Caribbean and Spain.

Go With Someone Different

If you’re always going on a holiday with your partner, or your family, you’re only allowing yourself to experience the same sort of vibe. If you’re a family holiday type of person, all you’ll most likely do is sit around the pool, take the kids to the beach or waterpark, and repeat. Don’t get us wrong, it is so lovely to see them having so much fun, and you’ll just be able to make so many memories along the way, both for you and for them. If you go with your partner, then holidays usually are more special. It’s always so nice to get away and have some quality time together, we often don’t seem to have enough of it. But, one holiday we definitely all need from time to time is a best friend holiday. They’re just made for fun, laughs, and having too much to drink. If you haven’t planned a holiday with your best friend before, we definitely think you should start talking about it today.

Go Somewhere A Bit Off The GridFinally, if you want an experience like no other, you have to go to a place like no other. We’re always so focused on going to some of the mainstream holiday destinations out there, when in fact, the world has so much more to offer than that. This link gives you just a few examples of some off the grid places you could visit. You never know, it could be the best holiday you’ve ever been on!

Top Destinations To See In The New Year

What does your typical New Year’s look like? If you’re tired of the same old thing, why not experience New Year somewhere incredible instead? Many countries around the world are known for their New Year’s Eve celebrations, giving you the perfect excuse to jet off and do some traveling. Get the inspiration you need with this list of top destinations to see in the New Year.

Image Credit: Unsplash under Creative Commons

Sydney

Sydney is one of the first major cities to see in the New Year, which is why it gets so much attention on the news. If you want to be a part of that excitement and magic, then a visit to Sydney is a must. Watch the fireworks from Sydney Harbor and you’ll be a part of an experience you’ll remember forever. After the party’s over, you’ll be able to experience all of the other wonderful elements that draw travelers to Sydney each year.

Bangkok

With its amazing nightlife and bustling crowds, a New Year’s spent in Bangkok is one you won’t forget. CentralWorld Plaza is the place to be on New Year’s Eve to join the crowds and enjoy the countdown. Grab cheap flights to Bangkok and enjoy seeing in the New Year in the world’s most popular place to visit. An excellent way to begin a Thai adventure, your New Year’s Eve will be one night in Bangkok you won’t forget.

Edinburgh

In Scotland, Hogmanay (the last day of the year) is celebrated, and what celebrations they are in lovely Edinburgh! The city is a hive of excitement on New Year’s Eve and there’s plenty of dancing and song to help you feel at home and ready to end the year on a high. Pack your warm clothes and visit Edinburgh – it won’t disappoint!

Dubai

The opulent and stylish Dubai makes a great destination for some New Year’s celebrations. You can guarantee excellent New Year’s Eve parties in Dubai that will make for a fun and entertaining evening. Head to the Burj Khalifa and watch those fireworks dazzle the night sky.

Rio de Janeiro

Where can you go for New Year’s that will be warm, buzzing and ready for a big party? Rio of course! Rio sees millions of people join together for one big party to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere, celebrate on the beach and the streets and welcome the New Year in style. Copacabana Beach is the place to be, so be sure to get there early to grab a good spot.

New York

Last but not least is, of course, the city that never sleeps. A New Year’s Eve spent in Times Square is something that everyone should do in their lifetime and be part of some wonderful celebrations. All eyes look to Times Square on December 31st, you can be there to watch the ball drop and enjoy plenty of amazing entertainment too.

With so many wonderful destinations to choose from, you’ll want to spend New Year somewhere new every year. Where will you spend your New Year’s Eve? Pick a travel destination and try something different this year.

Terrific Transportation: Getting Around in Style on Your Next Trip!

Looking to add a bit of style, luxury or just something a bit different to your next trip? Why not think about different ways to get around? There are all kinds of vehicles and modes of transportation that you can take advantage of that are not only practical but fun too. Here are just a few variations for your to consider.

Use a limo service

Do you have a special night out planned for while you’re away? Maybe you’re away with a big group of friends on a party holiday, and there’s a particular club you’re all looking forward to. Perhaps you’re on a trip with your partner, and you want to plan something special for your anniversary, Valentines Day, their birthday or the night you’re going to propose! You might have booked a show, night at the theatre or other occasion for the family and arriving in a limo would be the icing on the cake. If you just want a super luxurious getaway, you could have one pick you up from the airport- companies like Sabra Limo Service. A nice way to get to your hotel after a long flight, it certainly beats a crowded bus! There will be limousine companies dotted around in most destinations, so have a look ahead of time and get it booked up if it’s something you want to add to your trip.

pexels-photo-174752

Picture linked from Pexels.com

Hire a cool car

Planning on going on a road trip, or doing some driving while you’re away? Maybe you want to drive over the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco or defeat Route 66. You might want to take a drive through the stunning French countryside, or drive the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland. Whatever you have in mind, if you’re going to be on the roads why not do so in style? You can hire a car of your choice, it could be a luxury model that you’ve always wanted to own or a rugged 4×4. It could be a muscle car, a supercar or whatever you fancy. Have a think about the kind of route and what would best suit the journey you’ll be doing. Either way, finding a stylish way to get around can add comfort and luxury to your getaway.

Take a ride in a helicopter

A ride in a helicopter can enable you to see breathtaking views and is an all-round thrilling experience. You could see the New York skyline from above, or see the Las Vegas strip all lit up from the air. You could fly over London taking in iconic sights, or see the stunning scenery of beautiful England. Once you’ve decided where you’ll be visiting, do some research and find out if there are helicopter trips nearby. Be sure to book ahead as these kinds of things are popular and in high demand, and it’s no wonder as they can allow you to make memories that last a lifetime. If you want to add some glamour, excitement and something a little different to your trip then this is a really good way to go about it. There are often limitations, for example children under four years old usually can’t fly and anyone under sixteen must be accompanied by an adult. There are often weight restrictions too, so be sure to read the fine print before you book.

pexels-photo-1272392

Picture linked from Pexels.com

Charter a yacht

Is there anything nicer than the wind in your hair and clear blue seas all around on a gorgeous sunny day? Getting out onto a yacht can be relaxing if you want it to be, or it could be an opportunity to throw a party! You could sit on the deck and sip a drink, or you could watch wildlife. You could charter a yacht yourself, or hire one with a driver and complete with staff if you just want to lie back and enjoy the luxury. Many come with cleaners, a chef and more. If you’re visiting a scenic, coastal location then you shouldn’t find it difficult to locate a company that offers everything you want. If you’re staying in a city by the sea, a yacht can give you incredible views from the water at night when everything is all lit up.

pexels-photo-271681

Picture linked from Pexels.com

Book a cruise

Cruises fell out of fashion for a while. They were seen as something more for an older generation, however these days they’re well and truly back. The release of modern, beautiful cruise ships such as Quantum of the Seas means cruising is appealing to a younger market again. They’re great for couples and families, but really suit just about any kind of holidaymaker. You have everything you need all in one place right on the boat, and also the benefit of being able to visit lots of places on one trip. Cruise ships have shops, restaurants, things to do, areas to sit and sight see and so much more- making it a far nicer way to travel than on a cramped plane! When you stop at each location you can explore the place and see a new part of the world. It’s a wonderful way to see the world, and possibly the best form of transport!

Add something a extra special to your next break by considering one of the above, they make a great way to get around as well as allowing you to experience some true luxury! They’re not budget options, but if you’re planning something spectacular they’ll certainly make an impression.

Have you ever utilised one of these transport methods, or would you like to?

5 Alternative Ways to Spend an Afternoon at the Beach

If you live in the city or struggle to find the time to make a trip to the beach, you are probably happy to spend the time that you do get relaxing in the sun, reading books, paddling in the sea or playing with your family. You probably look forward to ice creams and strolls in the warm shallow waters. The idea of doing almost nothing can be most appealing.

If, however, you rent an oceanfront vacation home, or you live by the beach full time, you might have had enough of lying about in the sand. You might long for something a little more interesting. Here are five alternative ways to spend an afternoon at the beach.

Get in the Water

Credit – https://unsplash.com/photos/S-ldf8jqZLg

Unless you are a keen surfer, your trips to the beach probably include very little time in the water. Most of us stick to the sand and rarely go in above our knees. If you are getting a bit bored of the sand, why not throw yourself into the water. Go for a swim in the sea, which can feel very different to swimming in a swimming pool. Or, have a go at some water sports like water skiing or paddle boarding.

Try Some Seafood

Seafood is best by the sea. It’s fresh, it’s expertly cooked or prepared, and there’s more variety than anywhere else. If you usually stick to foods that you know at your days on the beach, why not try something different?

If you a house at the beach, why not try cooking some seafood or preparing some sushi for yourself? Take a look at the best seafood recipes online, buy the freshest ingredients and spend time experimenting with flavors and techniques.

Paint

There’s something about being out in the fresh air that makes us all feel a little more creative, and the scenery around the sea gives you plenty to draw inspiration from. Take a good look around you, set up an easel or take a sketchbook and have a go at painting or drawing what you can see.

If painting isn’t your thing, grab a camera and go for a walk around the sand dunes and rock pools. Take some photos of nature and enjoy getting back in touch with the world around you while exploring your creativity.

Go Fishing

Some people love fishing. Others, just don’t get it. The idea of sitting for hours waiting for a bite just doesn’t appeal. But, fishing at sea is a little different. It’s bigger. It’s more adventurous and more exciting. If you’ve never tried it, sea fishing might not be what you expect and is certainly worth trying.

Build a Sandcastle

Credit – https://unsplash.com/photos/0dxDl52u58Y

Building sandcastles is something that kids love, but adults rarely do. Let your inner child out and get building. It can be relaxing and interesting. It’s a free way to get creative, and you’ll probably find that it gets you talking to a lot of passers-by. Many beaches host sandcastle building contests that you could enter. Just remember, you’re not tied to castles. You can build a vast range of structures with sand. You just need your imagination.

Mamma Mia! Fall In Love With Italy

Have you been thinking about taking a European mini break sometime soon? Or maybe you want to spend longer in this part of the world so that you have enough time to explore its wonders?

There are lots of impressive regions and countries to visit in Europe, but there is a reason why Italy is the most-visited one there is – it’s a simply stunning country with a fascinating history and culture. Not only that, though, but it has some truly delicious cuisine and local specialities. Whether you want to enjoy a short city break or spend a couple of weeks lounging by a pool or on the beach, Italy is most certainly the place for you!

Once you’ve made up your mind about an Italian vacation, you need to then whittle down its many areas and cities to decide where you want to go. Unfortunately, there are so many amazing options, you might be a little spoiled for choice! Here are some of Italy’s best destinations; hopefully, this quick roundup can help you decide.

Rome

Rome

There’s no wonder many tourists head straight for Rome, the country’s gorgeous capital city. There are hundreds of historical sights and attractions dotted around the city, including the Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Trevi Fountain. To make sure you see as many as possible, you might want to book a couple of the various Rome tours that take tourists to the main points of interest. When you aren’t doing the sights, you should spend some time wandering around the historic streets of Rome and take in some of the stunning Renaissance architecture.

Milan

Milan

If you love fashion and shopping, then you should spend a few nights in Milan. It’s Italy’s home of fashion, and you will find a lot of trendy independent boutiques as well as big designer brands, such as Gucci and Prada. For the ultimate shopping experience, be sure to visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, which is one of the most famous shopping malls in the world. Of course, you don’t have to stick to shopping during your Milan trip. You can also visit the Sforza Castle and the grand Teatro alla Scala theater

Venice

One of the most visited cities in the world, Venice is a favorite of travelers and tourists alike. You will be able to enjoy a lazy day relaxing on a gondola as you sail along one of the city’s many canals. In fact, those canals have been created from the lagoon that the city was originally built upon. Over a hundred islands make up Venice, and it is well worth doing a spot of island hopping to explore as much as possible. Be sure to check out the St. Mark Basilica as it makes a great location for some vacation photos. Doge’s Palace is a gothic-style museum that overlooks the water and is a great way to spend a few hours.

Naples

Naples

If “eating a lot of pizza” is near the top of your Italian to-do list, then you absolutely have to go to the city of Naples. This is the home of the traditional Neapolitan pizza, which is arguably the best kind of pizza you can get in the whole of Italy. Once you’ve had your fill, you could visit the impressive Royal Palace of Naples. It’s also worth taking a day trip out of the city to Mount Vesuvius. Lots of organized tours take tourists to the dormant volcano to hike up to the top. Naples is also quite close to the ancient city of Pompeii. The city was devastated after Mount Vesuvius erupted but it, and most of its inhabitants, have been preserved for hundreds of years under layers of ash.

Lake Como

The Italian Lake District

If you take a trip up to the north of the country, you will come across the Italian Lake District. This is where you will find the famous Lake Como, which is known for its gorgeous crystal-clear waters and mountain views. There will be plenty of hiking opportunities around the lake, and many tourists also choose to take a boat ride out onto the water. While you are in this region, be sure to visit the well-maintained public gardens that line most of the lake. Lake Garda is another popular stop-off for tourists, as this is where you will find fantastic mountain biking opportunities and plenty of water sport activities as well.

Sicily

Sicily is easy to spot on a map as it is the large island that looks like it is being “kicked” by Italy. It’s the biggest Mediterranean island, so you can imagine just how much to see and do there is! You’ll be able to walk to the Valle dei Templi, which is one of the island’s most notable archeological sites. The island is also home to Mount Etna, another volcano that you will be able to hike up to. If you would rather spend your time in Italy relaxing, you will be happy to know that Sicily has some beautiful beaches. To team history and relaxation, you should visit Licata so that you can wander around the historic port when you are bored of sunbathing.

Tuscany

Tuscany

Tuscany is known for its rural areas, but don’t worry if you would rather sample some city living. The capital of this region is Florence, and there’s plenty of culture and fun to be had there! When you are ready to see the gorgeous Tuscan countryside, you should take a trip to Cortona. This small town is situated right on the side of a hill and benefits from some truly inspiring views. You might also want to visit La Verne, which was the quiet retreat of St. Francis. You can pay homage to the saint or simply visit the busy Franciscan monastery that is still present on the site.

As you can see, there are some really fantastic places to visit while you are in Italy. In fact, there are so many, you might want to organize a road trip around the country to fit in as much as possible!