5 Intriguing Travel Destinations You've Never Heard Of

By Muzz
Image
Did you know  that there is a small village in Norway called Longyearbyen, where dying is actually prohibited? The reason for this is that the permafrost in the area is so cold that bodies buried there do not decompose, and as a result, they can still contain diseases that could potentially spread to the living. Therefore, if someone is terminally ill in Longyearbyen, they are flown out to the mainland to spend their final days. Did you know that there is a remote island off the coast of Brazil called Ilha da Queimada Grande, which is home to one of the world's deadliest snakes, the golden lancehead viper? This venomous snake, which is endemic to the island, is so dangerous that the Brazilian government has made it illegal for anyone to visit the island, except for a few select researchers who have special permission. Did you know that there is a town in Japan called Nagoro, where there are more scarecrows than humans? The town's population has been declining for years, a...

Discover the Charms of Central Europe: A Guide for Australian Tourists Visiting Germany, Austria, and Switzerland

By Muzz

Central Europe is a dream destination for many travellers, and for good reason. This region is home to breathtaking natural landscapes, historic cities, and vibrant cultures. If you're an Australian traveller planning to visit Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, here are some international travel tips that will make your trip more enjoyable and memorable.

  1. Get off the beaten path: While famous cities like Berlin, Vienna, and Zurich are certainly worth a visit, Central Europe has many hidden gems that are less crowded and just as charming. Consider exploring smaller towns and villages like Rothenberg ob der Tauber in Germany, Hallstatt in Austria, or Gruyeres in Switzerland. You'll be rewarded with stunning scenery and a chance to experience local culture in a more intimate way.
  2. Embrace the local cuisine: Central European cuisine is hearty and delicious, with dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and cheese fondue. Don't be afraid to try new foods and flavours. You might discover a new favorite dish or drink. And be sure to visit local markets, bakeries, and cafes to sample fresh and authentic foods.
  3. Take advantage of outdoor activities: Central Europe is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In Germany, you can hike the Bavarian Alps or bike along the Danube River. In Austria, you can ski in the winter or hike in the summer in the Tirol region. In Switzerland, you can explore the Swiss National Park or go paragliding in the Alps. There's no shortage of adventures to be had.
  4. Learn about the region's history: Central Europe has a rich and complex history, with a legacy that includes the Holy Roman Empire, the Habsburgs, and the Swiss Confederation. Take some time to learn about the region's past through museums, castles, and historic sites like Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, Schönbrunn Palace in Austria, or the Chillon Castle in Switzerland.
  5. Experience the local festivals: Central Europe is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, from Oktoberfest in Munich to the Salzburg Festival in Austria to the Fasnacht Carnival in Basel, Switzerland. Attending a festival is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and have some fun.
  6. Bring the right adapter: Australia uses a different electrical socket and voltage to Europe, so be sure to bring the right adapter for your electronics. In Central Europe, the most common types of plugs are the Type C and Type J. Type C plugs are two-pronged and are commonly used in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Type J plugs are three-pronged and are used in Switzerland. You can purchase a universal adapter that includes both of these types at most electronic stores or online. Be sure to check that the adapter is suitable for the voltage of the country you're visiting (220-240V in Central Europe).
  7. Make the most of public transportation: Central European cities have efficient and reliable public transportation systems, including trains, buses, and trams. Using public transportation is not only affordable, but also a great way to see the sights and get around. Consider purchasing a multi-day or multi-city pass to save money.
  8. Learn a few basic phrases: While many Central Europeans speak English, knowing a few key phrases in the local language can go a long way in showing respect and making connections. In Germany, saying "prost" (cheers) when toasting is a must. In Austria, "servus" is a common greeting. In Switzerland, "sali" is a casual way to say hello.

With these international travel tips in mind, your trip to Central Europe will be filled with unforgettable experiences and moments. Don't forget to bring your camera and sense of adventure. Bon voyage and happy exploring!

Popular posts from this blog

Traveling for Faith: How Religion and Travel Shape Our World

By Muzz
Image
Travel and religion go way back. Many religions require or encourage people to go on pilgrimages, which has led to the creation of sacred sites and booming travel industries around them. And, not only do these sites hold spiritual significance, they also bring in a lot of money. Millions of travellers visit religious sites each year, spending money on hotels, food, transportation, and souvenirs, all of which contribute to local economies. Religion and travel have a strong bond that's been around for centuries. It continues to shape the way we explore the world and discover new things about ourselves. Here are some figures on the economic impact of religious tourism in the four sacred places. Makkah, Saudi Arabia: The Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah generates billions of dollars for the Saudi Arabian economy each year. According to a 2018 report by Oxford Business Group, the Hajj contributed $12 billion to the Saudi economy in 2017. In addition, the Umrah, a smaller pilgrimage to Makkah ...
Read more

Solo travel: A growing trend among women and millennials

By Muzz
Image
Are you tired of waiting around for friends to plan a trip or waiting for your schedules to align? Solo travel might be the perfect solution. Not only is it a great way to explore the world on your own terms, but it's also becoming increasingly popular among women and millennials. Anyone born between 1981 and 1996 is considered a millennial. According to a study by the Solo Travel Society, over 70% of solo travellers are women. Additionally, a survey by HostelWorld found that solo bookings increased by a whopping 42% between 2015 and 2017. This trend is especially prevalent among millennials and Gen Z travellers, with 40% of global travellers planning to take a solo trip in the coming year, according to a 2018 survey by Booking.com. While solo travel can be an incredible experience, safety is a top concern for many solo travellers. In the same Booking.com survey, 56% of solo travellers said that safety was their primary concern, with many citing concerns about crime, har...
Read more

Travel Beyond Yourself: The Global Impact of Tourism and Why It Matters

By Muzz
Image
Travel isn't just about crossing borders or going from towns to the cities. It's also a major industry, responsible for generating trillions of dollars in economic activity each year. In 2019, the global travel and tourism industry contributed $8.9 trillion to the world's GDP and supported 330 million jobs and more than 1.4 billion people travelled internationally, which is nearly 20% of the world's population. So next time you plan a trip, remember that you're not just embarking on a personal adventure, but you're also part of a larger global community that values the benefits of travel and tourism. Whether you're traveling domestically or internationally, by taking that step outside, you're making a positive impact on the world. But travel isn't just about creating economic opportunities either - it also has the power to bring people together and foster understanding between different cultures. By experiencing new cultures and ways of life, you...
Read more