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Showing posts with the label Europe

A Guide to Conquering South Iceland in the Winter

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It’s another world. Wind whips over winding roads with deafening sound. No matter how snowy it gets, there’s not a ski resort in sight. Why would anyone go to Iceland in the winter?! Because it’s one of the most beautiful places on the planet. If you’re used to driving in the winter or consider yourself a road warrior, Iceland as a group travel experience with your buddies can be unforgettable. It’s an easy reach from either the U.S. or Europe, almost smack dab in between. Icelandair offers free layovers too if you’re heading either way across the ocean, making this the perfect layover. You’ll be handsomely rewarded with glacier hikes, waterfalls, crashing waves, black sand beaches, beautiful cities and so much more. What to Bring to Iceland in Winter Layers are always key in cold weather. Depending on how hearty you are, you’ll want some under armor, thick socks, gloves, hats and scarves. My LL Bean waterproof jacket was also priceless. My boots weren’t as sturdy as I’d like, so...

Spend Christmas in Tromso – the Most Nordic-Like City in Norway

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Tromso, Norway. The city of Tromso is one of the most enchanting places in the Arctic Circle. No wonder it is one of the best places to go on a winter holiday. During the Christmas period Tromso becomes fairy-tale-like beautiful with all those lights and festive mood. In December the town lives in darkness as the Polar Night prevails: not a single ray of Sun reaches this corner of the world. This is why it is also the best time to admire Aurora Borealis – the green lights are the most visible now. Locals know how to create Christmassy atmosphere and welcome the visitors, who can enjoy their hospitality. Christmas markets offer traditional sweets, handicrafts and special crowberry cordial, that helps to get warm. There are a lot of music venues, including the cathedrals, where carols brighten the dark evenings. And finally the locals and guests gather to celebrate New Year. Flaming torches, fireworks, mountainous background and plenty of champagne welcome the new exciting beginnings. ...

Luberon, France: Ultimate Guide to the Picturesque Villages

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Luberon, France was one of our favorite areas we visited during our 3 week France road trip. If you’re dreaming of visiting Provence, most likely what you’re imagining is Luberon, France. It was what I was picturing. Long leisurely lunches, endless beautiful countryside, picturesque hilltop villages, daily markets, and fields of lavender – all this is found in Luberon, France. This Provencal region that lies east of Avignon and north of Aix-en-Provence was made famous by Peter Mayle’s adventures in Provence and the movie “A Good Year”. Since then, a rush of tourists have made their way to Provence, dreaming of the life described in the Peter Mayle’s stories. What not all visitors realize is that the region they are looking for is Luberon, France. The Luberon is characterized by a series of picturesque villages perched on a rooftop. Each village has a distinctly unique personality and slightly different charm to offer. We fell in love with each o...