Category: EUROPE

How to spend 48 hours in Athens this June Pride Month

Athens Greece night lights

Looking for a queer-friendly destination that’s not just about the party scene? Look no further than Athens. While it may not be as flashy as Mykonos or Amsterdam, the Greek capital has a and welcoming LGBTQ+ community that’s active throughout the year. But come June, when Pride events kick off, you’re in for a treat. Here are some must-do activities for your 48-hour Athens itinerary, inspired by This is Athens: Day 1: Athens Realness Morning Get your day started at Rooster for a cup of delicious Greek coffee. This all-day café is located a short walk from Monastiraki metro and is a popular spot among the local LGBTQ+ community. Afterward, make your way to the Acropolis, passing sights like Hadrian‘s Library and the Roman Agora along the way. Don’t forget to check out the state-of-the-art Acropolis Museum and explore the surrounding area, including the Odeon Of Herodes Atticus, Philopappou Monument, and Anafiotika. Lunch Head out of the Historic Centre and explore LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhoods like Gazi, Keramikos, and Metaxourgio. For lunch, try Myrolovos on Avdi Square for small Greek plates or hit up Groovy MyPlate in nearby Keramikos Square for some of Athens’ famous street food. Afternoon Take a break from ancient marble and explore Athens’ contemporary art scene at the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) or check out the underground Greek art in Gazi. If shopping is more your thing, head to the chic boutiques in Kolonaki or Athenian street fashion purveyors like Pitch, Dangerous Minds, or He-m-n-oid. Evening Experience Athens’ nightlife with… Read More

A guide to the highlights of Athens and the Acropolis Museum

Parthenon Acropolis Athens

The Athens Acropolis Museum is one of the most visited cultural destinations in Greece. It boasts a vast collection of ancient artifacts that offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history of Athens. Here are some of the highlights that visitors must see at the museum. The Parthenon Gallery: The Parthenon Gallery is the most popular attraction in the museum. It is a massive gallery that houses the Parthenon Frieze, which is a 160-meter-long sculpture that adorned the walls of the Parthenon temple. The frieze depicts a procession of people who were attending the Panathenaic religious festival. Visitors can walk around the gallery and see the original sculptures up close. The gallery also offers a stunning view of the Acropolis from the glass window that runs along one side of the room. The Archaic Gallery: The Archaic Gallery is a must-see destination for visitors who love ancient art. It features a collection of archaic sculptures that dates back to the 6th century BCE. The gallery offers a glimpse into the early days of Athens, and the sculptures depict various mythical creatures and humans. The most notable sculpture in the gallery is the celebrated “Kore of Antenoe,” which is a statue of a young woman. The Athena Nike Gallery: The Athens Nike Gallery is a small gallery that houses several notable sculptures, including the Winged Victory of Samothrace. The gallery is dedicated to the goddess Athena, who was believed to have given victory to the Athenians in battle. The most famous sculpture in the gallery is… Read More

How Classic Greece and Rome still matter to travellers

Classical Rome representation scaled

The ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome have left an indelible mark on the world’s cultural, scientific and architectural landscapes. The two empires’ influences on modern society are seen in everything from the buildings and monuments that adorn our cities to the language and ideals that shape our cultural beliefs. It’s no wonder then that the study of classical subjects such as Greek and Roman history, myths, and literature has been a longstanding tradition for humanities scholars. But it’s not just in academia that classical studies have value; they are also highly relevant to travellers today. One of the most significant benefits of studying ancient Greek and Rome is the opportunity to enrich one’s travels to these countries while gaining a deeper understanding of their people and culture. By studying the classics, you gain valuable insights into their values, philosophies, and way of life, making your trip more meaningful and rewarding. When you visit the ruins of the Parthenon in Athens or the Coliseum in Rome, for instance, you will understand better how these iconic structures fit within the context of the societies that built them. There’s also much to be learned about today’s political and social issues by studying classical history. For instance, the political philosophies of Aristotle, Plato, and Socrates have gone down in history as the shining examples of democratic thought. The U.S. Declaration of Independence itself was inspired by ancient Greek democracy, and its authors sought to create a government that reflected the egalitarianism that was so highly prized by Athenian… Read More

Summer done right: private flights from London to Malaga with Aero

Malaga Spain

There’s a private flight company operating out of London to just make that much difference to your summer holidays this 2023. They’re Aero and offering a personalised jet experience by launching a ‘pop up’ flight from London to Malaga and back throughout April! It’ll get you early access to the sunny Spanish coast ahead of summer before the crowds descend on your favourite Mediterranean destination on the riviera. Responding to their guests’ interest, the flights will align with key calendar dates and events throughout the month, making travelling at times like Easter seamless and stress-free, in true Aero style, they say! In addition to all the perks of a private flight as you’d imagine, Aero has partnered with luxury resort Anantara Villa Padierna Palace, giving you the option of access to the hotel spa wet area on landing, where you can enjoy water circuits with a heated pool, cold plunge pool, saunas and more for the ultimate wellbeing experience. Plus, golf lovers can also look forward to a complimentary one-day pass to enjoy the three world-class courses available at the resort. For more and to get booking head to the Aero website

Your next holiday to Europe: stay in the palace from Netflix’s ‘The Empress’

Weissenstein Schloss Bavaria Airbnb castle palace 1

You don’t have to speak German to know how much of a legend Empress Elizabeth of Austria and the show Netflix made about her was. So when the chance to stay in the palace they created the latest show drop comes up on Airbnb, as if you wouldn’t consider a stay, right? Regardless of if you’re a monarchist, or not, into war history (WWII) or just love a beautiful ceiling, the opportunity to bathe in splendour at Weissenstein Palace is never one to overlook. Weissenstein palace is the remarkable palace and is now ready to welcome guests to a sumptuous suite, which has been given an imperial makeover that will transport guests back in time to the late 19th century when Empress Elizabeth was at the height of her fame. Located in Pommersfelden, Bavaria, Weissenstein Palace is steeped in a rich heritage and is widely considered to be one of Germany’s greatest Baroque buildings. The historical palace features prominently in Netflix’s The Empress, where it serves as Sisi’s principal royal residence. Beginning on Nov 3rd at 4 a.m. AEDT, guests can request to book the exclusive stay, which is just one of many historical homes on Airbnb. So now, in honour of the show and the fact that Sisi would have celebrated her 185th birthday this year, aspiring emperors and empresses can request to book this exclusive stay for €185 ($287 AUD) beginning Nov 3rd at 4 a.m. AEDT at airbnb.com/theempress

Best food festivals around Italy: where to go

Pizza

Italy is the home of pasta. The birthplace of pizza. The refuge of cannoli and the haven of tiramisu. And that’s just covering a few regions! As the world gets increasingly food focused, Italy’s reputation has just taken over, giving us not just the image of Italy as a foodie’s paradise, but direct-from-the-source-type places where we can get all the produce we’d ever need. Think Eataly! To honour the beautiful country that is Italy and to get excited for the full calendar year of food events and things to do around the country, we’re taking a look at the best and biggest food festivals around the country to add to your diary. And why. JANUARY, gennaio Sagra della Sfincia di Priescia, Montelepre, SICILY All about the traditional Sicilian sweet treat, sfincia di priescia, this annual festival takes place on 6th January in the Piazza Principe di Piemonte. FEBRUARY, febbraio Battle of Oranges, Ivrea, PIEDMONT Get your cameras ready because the Battle of Oranges must be seen to be believed. An epic three-day food fight which runs from Sunday until Shrove Tuesday every year, this festival is all about flying fruit in a re-enactment of a skirmish dating back to the 12th century. MARCH, marzo Feast of San Giuseppe, CAMPANIA, SICILY, LAZIO Across southern Italy on March 19th, Italians celebrate San Giuseppe with myriad versions of zeppole, the more-ish crispy fried dough balls which are a popular street food throughout the south. Ask for the melt-in-your-mouth Zeppole di San Giuseppe – and don’t even try stopping at just one…. Read More

Top world heritage sites to see in Italy outside of Pompeii and Venice

Venice gondola

Many of us have been to Pompeii and Venice, sure, but once you’ve been there and bought the t-shirt, where do you go for your next trip? Italy is a peninsula of unadulterated – in parts – coastline, urban dwelling, history, drama, good food and wine – the list is endless, so there’s no shortage of other world heritage sites, some over 2,000 years-old or more, to sink your passport into. So, let’s have a look and say a warm ‘buongiorno’ to your next Italian holiday… Frescoes of Padua, Veneto Added to the UNESCO stable in 2021, the glorious 14th century frescoes in the historic walled city of Padua are painted on eight secular and religious buildings. Chosen for the way they illustrate the progression of fresco art over the course of a century, the most famous is Giotto’s Scrovegni Chapel fresco cycle, which is said to have marked the start of a revolution in mural painting. Porticoes of Bologna, Emilia Romagna Another newcomer, the Porticoes of Bologna have been a feature of the town since the 12th century. Covering 62 kilometres in total, the porticoes, 12 of which have been elected as UNESCO World Heritage sites, range from timber to brick, concrete and stone versions and are an iconic element of the city’s architecture. Sipping an espresso or enjoying a gelato on a summer evening under one of Bologna’s porticoes is an unforgettable, authentic local experience worthy of inclusion on any itinerary to the Emilia Romagna region, a firm favourite among foodies.   Montecatini Terme, Tuscany… Read More

5 best places to go in Italy for wellness retreats

La Sirenuse Italy Amalfi

The concept of wellness in Italy isn’t new. In fact, it’s ancient. Extending well past 1,500 years to the Ancient Romans whose passion for baths, public bathing and their freedom and flexibility with sumptuousness and nudity is now only too-well known. Good things the modern day ‘Romans’ – the Italians – are keeping the tradition alive and well across the entire country and the famed Italian Rivieras where health and wellness spas, hotels and establishments don’t just exist and thrive, but have a clientelle of the most global scale. Working with the Italian National Tourist Board, we’ve found a round-up of five of the best wellness retreats to consider when you’re next on the back of a Vespa, wondering which way the Mediterranean breeze should blow you… Terme di Saturnia, Tuscany Occupying 120 hectares among the rolling Tuscan hills, Terme di Saturnia is centred around legendary open-air thermal springs which have been flowing from the centre of the earth for more than 3000 years. The special ingredient here is Saturnia bioplancton, a naturally occurring ‘miracle’ ingredient in the 37.5°C water which leaves skin silky smooth and soft, as well as minerals said to help reduce blood pressure, soothe tired muscles, and help cleanse and detox the liver. From massaging your shoulders in invigorating whirlpools to surrendering to treatments in the on-site medi-spa or beauty clinic, resident guests enjoy a personalised wellness program, while day visitors can hit the spa, hot springs, tennis court or geo-certified golf course for quick pick-me-up in a picturesque setting. Palazzo Fiuggi, Lazio Is there… Read More

5 reasons to visit Mykonos Greece this summer

Mykonos ocean cliff view

It’s summer in Europe! And that means, well, so many things, but primarily: travel to and around the mainland. Europe’s a big place and Greece is one of the many destinations that sits atop its crown of must-visit destinations; and Mykonos even more so, if that’s your vibe. Think Jackie O’s on the beach, water views at every stop and all the table service anyone could ever need. Oh and these 5 other winning reasons. Read on and get planning! 1. Resident DJ and weekly music events Popular for its glamorous nightlife, superstar DJs and beautiful crowds, Mykonos is a true holiday destination. The fun starts at Kensh? Ornos, with a calendar of regular events sure to keep guests entertained. Throughout the season, different musicians and performances will be taking place at Kensh? Ornos, ranging from singers to DJ’s, dancers and more. Recent events include our resident DJ, DJ Angelosi playing Ethnic Electronic and Afro House music and Mediterranean ethnic music performances by Ghenwa Nemnom. 2. The star-lit swimming pool One of the best places to take a dip in Mykonos, the Kensh? Ornos pool was designed to complement the hotel’s surrounding Ornos Bay. With majestic views of the Aegean Sea, lounging by the pool has never been more relaxing. The pool is the perfect Instagram spot, guaranteed to give everyone at home FOMO. At night, the turquoise swimming pool is illuminated with ‘starlights’ that light up the turquoise water for inviting evening swims. Guests can enjoy fresh towels, delicious cocktails and snackable lite bites whilst… Read More

Europe summer travel is back: consider the Bodrum EDITION Turkiye

Bodrum EDITION hotel room

The Bodrum EDITION is back for the summer and this July 2022, the resort will be hosting an impressive roster of musicians and artists that are set to entertain guests throughout; creating the ultimate oasis for those looking to both celebrate and wind down. It’ll be hosting a variety of DJs and musicians to kick start their nights at Morena Beach Club during their Chillout Vibe sessions, including acts from famed Istanbul DJ Sabo, Persic, Laolu and and sets from DJ Seko; all set amongst the background of the white sandy beach and crystal turquoise water. The resort’s destination signature al fresco restaurant, BRAVA, helmed by chef Diego Muñoz will also be celebrating the national Bayram Holiday with a variety of acts from Berk Büyükak?n and DJ Yaz Yüceil and other artists including DJ Zeynep Erbay to continue to the celebrations after the national holiday is over. And if the general chicness and awesome landscape of the Turkish surrounds and hotel aren’t enough, then artist, Eda Zamanpur will be organising an array of conceptual art club classes with signature cocktails available throughout the sessions from the Beach Club. Eda specialises in watercolour paintings and draws inspiration from the nature around her which is an idyllic partnership due to the resort being on the waterfront with snorkeling spots close by. Rates start from €1,600 per room per night in July. For more, head to the Bodrum EDITION website.