Vatican Smallest City States Ministates Microstates in Europe

European City-States: The Tiniest Europe Countries to Visit

July 29, 2019/0 Comments/in Europe, Nature /

Ever wondered if Andora, Monaco and San Marino are states or cities? You have all rights to be confused. Europe is a home for 51 independent states. While some of them historically lead the world economy like Germany and the UK, some are well known for law, like France and Sweden, and some like Norway is blessed with natural resources.

But what is it about the smaller states?

The Micro Monarchies in Europe

There are 6 ministates or microstates in Europe. Andorra, Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City are all small countries, but not necessarily states as we know it. In fact, Malta is a traditional example of a sovereign entity under international law other than a state.

But before you try locating these countries on the map, read further and see what the tiniest countries in Europe have to offer! Andorra and Liechtenstein sit in the mountains in the heart of Europe, while Monaco and Malta enjoy the Medditarean beaches.

Vatican City

Vatican City State is the smallest of all states in Europe. Sitting in the middle of Europe, it has an area of just 0.17 sq mi. Ruled directly by the Pope of Catholic Church, it is the of the papal states that once constituted Italy. After unification in the 19th century, it is formally a part of Kingdom of Italy, while politically ruled by the Pope. Enclosed entirely by Rome, there are 600 to 700 people living in the Vatican.

When to go to Vatican City? It is one of the top destinations all year round, but to beat the crowds, try going to the Vatican from Tuesday to Friday from 12:00 to 18:00. Make sure to allocate around 4 hours for your visit.

What to do in Vatican City for free? Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and walk around St. Peter’s Square for free. Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Dome are paid-entrance only.

Monaco

Principality of Monaco with a territory of 0.78 sq mi comes the second smallest in the whole of Europe. Nevertheless, it boasts one of the world’s chicest beaches – a slice of the Côte d’Azur between Nice and the Italian border. Monaco-Ville is its capital, and you can learn more about it watching the famous 2014 Hollywood production. Grace of Monaco is directed by Olivier Dahan and starring Nicole Kidman as Grace Kelly.

When to go to Monaco? April and October are the best months; the room rates are reduced and the weather is just spot-on.

What to do in Monaco for free? Visit the legendary Monte Carlo casino and walk in the Saint-Martin gardens.

San Marino

The Republic of San Marino comes the third by the area. What’ s more, it is is the oldest surviving sovereign state and constitutional republic in the world. It was founded in 301 A.D. and is the last survivor of self-governing Italian communes from the Middle Ages. Located in the Valley of the Apennines, it has a population of 30,000 people.

When to go to San Marino? Go to San Marino in September to get to the Feast of San Marino (September 3 2019) and walk the mountain terrains, spotting wild rabbits and hedgehogs and other animals.

What to do in San Marino for free? Hiking is for free – and we definitely recommend it!

Liechtenstein

Principality of Liechtenstein houses over 35,000 people. Located between Switzerland and Austria, it is a popular travel destination for winter sports and summer walks in the Alpine resort of Malbun.

When to go to Liechtenstein? It is that simple: you should go in the winter for skiing, and in summer for hiking in the Alps.

What to do in Liechtenstein for free? Walk around the quiet capital Vaduz and visit Liechtenstein Museums for free.

Andorra

The Principality of Andorra boasts an area of just 181 sq mi. It has some of the finest skiing and hiking in the Pyrenees, plus a wealth of duty-free shopping.

When to go to Andorra? Unless you want to go skiing (the ski season in December and ends in April), the best time to visit Andorra is from May to September.

What to do in Andorra for free? You can go hiking! It is a unique experience with breathtaking views to the Pyrenees.

Malta

Sovereign Military Order of Malta is an archipelago of 7 islands. No wonder it has much larger population than other ministates (446,000) – it sits in the very middle of the Mediterranean Sea where the sun shines most of the year and people are happy. Europe Smallest Countries Destinations Monaco Liechtenstein Malta Andorra Where to Go What to Visit for free and when

When to go to Malta? Go to Malta in October to avoid the crowds.

What to do in Malta for free? Lay on the beach in Fomm ir-Riħ and walk the Valetta coastline from a group of boathouses to the city walls and bastions of Fort St. Elmo.

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Travel Guide: Travel Tour de France Route July 2019

July 22, 2019/0 Comments/in Europe, Nature /

Tour de France Cuddlynest Travel Tips Guides French Alps July 2019 Travel Tour de France official 2019 route – read this article to learn about the best cultural sights along the famous competition route.

Since the first race in 1903, the competition grew and gradually race extended around the world. Undoubtedly becoming the world’s biggest annual sporting event, today it unites road cycling fans, UCI professional sportsmen travelers to France alike. Cycling and competing in sports lies so deep in French culture and being that the race was only stopped for the war years. Here is where organizers are bringing fans, sports teams and enthusiasts in 2019. Added bonus? Read and discover French cultural heritage – the architecture, local sights and traditions.

Visit Nîmes Occitanie in Stage 16 Tour de France

Nîmes, often referred to as the French Rome, is a capital of the Occitanie region. The region is well known for its Southern beauty. Nimes city is enclosed with Medditarean from one side and the Cévennes mountains on the other, so you can have a swim in between race stages.
What to do in Nimes?

From wandering around Jardin de la Fountaine 17th century parks with botanical gardens, romantic ponds, historic sculptures and Roman ruins, to visiting Arena of Nîmes, an amphitheatre built in 100 A.D., shortly after Colosseum in Rome, there is plenty to do in Nîmes. Even more if you fan about ancient architecture as much as speed, road and pedals.

Visit Pont du Gard

Pont du Gard is the highest Roman aqueduct bridge, and one of the best-preserved. Why is it so important? Apart from its ancient origin (built in the first century AD, it carried water over 50 kilometres. You can access it from Nimes, as it crosses Gardon River near the town of Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Even before the global travel, it was a must-visit for European nobles going on Grand Tour around Europe. In fact, it is so popular even to this very day – you can find Pont du Gard on 5 euro banknote.

Visit Tour de France Stage 17 Gap, France

Visit Gap, France in July 2019! Gap is a French town on the intersection between Provence and Alps. Eclosed by mountains, its wildly beautiful with forests, wildflowers and wild animals will amaze you.

What to see in Gap, France in summer?

Visit chateau Domaine de Charance, which also serves as an information centre for Ecrins National Park. It is located 1000 metres high and a 220 hectares large English style garden surrounds the main building. Here you can find a unique collection of old roses.
Enter the main building of Domaine de Charance which houses Alpine Botanical Conservatory! Here you can learn about plants and rare flowers in the mountains. If lucky, you will even be able to take part in a guided tour to discover the national park flora!

Visit Embrun

Embrun, or formerly known as Ebrodunum, is a city that inspired the name of Canadian town in Ontario in 1856. What’s more, the town has one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe. The Lac de Serre-Ponçon is a must-see. Located 780 m high, the lake stretches 20 km in length and has a surface area of 28 km². You can also fish here. Fishermen come here for Tench, Arctic char, Common roach, Brook trout, and Grayling.

Visit Valloire on Tour de France Route

Valloire in France is famous for its ski resorts. As we already wrote before French Alps are one of the best winter destinations, but even in summer months, you can hike the high mountains. If you crave adventure, though, the ski resorts Valloire-Galibier is next to the ski resort of Valmeinier, France. When calculating fr both ski resorts together, 70% of the Valloire/Valmeinier area is above 2,000 m.

What to do in Valloire in summer?

In July, you can take a cablecar to the top, and access the ski ring. You can also wander around the hike peeks and meet travellers. There are many, considering that La route des Grandes Alpes, the most famous European mountain route, is passing through Valloire.

Visit Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne

The city lies in the valley Maurienne, the valley of the River Arc. The city used to oversee Savoy back in the day, a fact that left many beautiful architectural sights around the city. Well-know for the ski resorts and winter attractions and activities for families and solo adventure travelers, the tow is much more quiet in the summertime.

What to see in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne?

Go and climb Lacets de Montvernier, and see some art in between. You can also rent a bike here and get to the top faster. The region is rich in natural wonders, one of which Col du Chaussy. It is a sharp mountain edge with vistas – if you are around, do not miss it! It is a true challenge to cycle, but if you are brave, you can rent a bike and cycle the road dating back to 1934.

Visit Tour de France Route Tignes

Opposite to the previously mentioned towns, Tignes is a group of villages. Located near the Italian border, Tignes is a part of the Espace Killy ski area. In winter, villages are lively, with many skiers going out to pubs and shopping in charming little souvenir shops. In summer, you can walk trails, play golf and a access bike park. If you still want to ski, you can! Just go to Grande Motte glacier, France.

Visit Albertville 1992

Albertville gained world exposure when it hosted the Winter Olympics 1992. Since then, Arly river is famous for trail running infrastructure. If you wish to visit cultural sights and savour traditional high-quality French cheese, go for Tamié Abbey. It is a Cistercian monastery operating since 1132. Today, it is a Trappist community of 30 monks and is world-famous for its cheese, Abbaye de Tamié.

Visit Val Thorens on Tour de France Route

In summer, Val Thorens offers trail running, swimming, nature hiking and minigolf. You can also cycle or enjoy family attractions on Speedmountain.

In winter, the town attracts mostly skiers. Three Valleys, Val Thorens have one of the largest skiing area in the world! What’s more, it is the highest ski resort in Europe, at an altitude of 2300 m.

Visit Rambouillet

If you go to Rambouillet, you definitely have to visit Château de Rambouillet. The 14th-century castle architecture took us aback, and it will you, too! After the palace, go and visit Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park, a nature park with deers, and many other historical figures. In 1985, the park was specially designed for Parisians to spend some time in nature – its historical value has not changed since. Still craving nature? Swim at Étangs de Hollande and see the 18th-century Château de Saint-Hubert built by Louis XV in Perray-in-Yvelines. It was as a hunting residence back in 1758 and ever since.

Finish Tour de France in Paris Champs-Élysées

As Tour de France finishes, the last stage ends at The Avenue des Champs-Élysées. 1.9 kilometres long and 70 metres wide, the avenue connects the Place de la Concorde and the Place Charles de Gaulle. What to do in Paris? Well, that is a question hard to answer – let us share our Paris travel guide with you another time!

While you are still deciding what stage to join Tour de France, here are 3 fun facts.

3 Fun Facts About Tour de France:

It was first held to increase the sales of a magazine.
The youngest winner won right after the first race, in 1904
More than 42000 water bottles will be used by 22 teams in this year’s race.

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10 Short Daytrips from Naples in Florida

June 18, 2019/0 Comments/in Americas, Florida, Nature /

Best Day trips from Naples Florida

Naples Florida travel guide cannot be included in a single blog post. But you can go on a short day trip from Naples in just any direction. No matter your interests, the surrounding area is rich in history. Diverse leisure activities cater to both adventure junkies, foodies as well as art enthusiasts.

Day trips for Shopping near Naples Florida

If you want to bring back of visiting a real store having a chit chat with sales assistant while looking for the perfect scarf instead of chatting with a bot on Amazon or eBay, shopping can be a cure for the soul. There are several small shops located in Naples you can visit for a heart-warming second-hand shopping experience, like Audrey’s, or True Fashionistas, but if you are looking for all-in-one shopping mall, your best bet is to go to Bonita Springs, or straight to the outlet in outskirts of the Naples city to Estero.

Bonita Springs

Gulf Coast beaches and parks, Little Hickory Island Beach Park and Bonita Beach Park, with its sand dunes, and the Northern Lovers Key State Park mare popular visitor hotspots in Bonita Springs, and rightly so. But this is not all; Bonita Springs, located 15 minutes ride away from Naples, also features one of the best shopping malls in the area.

Where to go? Springs Plaza has it all; Promenade Store is for a unique shopping experience.

Estero

If you seek sales and want to get a new shirt in some of the best Naples outlets, Estero is a place to visit. From Coconut Shopping Mall Naples to Miromar Outlets with more than 140 designer and brand name outlet stores under roof, to smaller shopping malls, like Corkscrew Village Naples FL, Estero has it all.

Beach Family Day Trips from Naples Florida

Naples Florida is famous for its The Naples Pier, stretching 1,000 feet into the Gulf of Mexico. While you shall not miss watching sunset there, also try to spot a dolphin in the morning! Visit the infamous Naples beaches with calm waters and fine white sand. In Clam Pass Park and Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, there are several Naples getaways for family day trips near Naples FL.

Fort Myers

30 minute ride away, Fort Mayers is a fairly large town. It offers beautiful beaches and family leisure activities. Make sure to go to Fort Myers Beach which has both educational centres, The Ostego Bay Marine Science Center, showcasing local marine life, as well as leisure activities for both adults and kids, like parasailing in Estero Island and hiking in wildlife in Bowditch Point Park.

Sanibel Island and Captiva Island

Located a bit further, 45-minute drive away, the islands is a great place to go if your kids are of school age, as the sand is shell-strawn, and it takes a bridge to cross.

To get to Sanibel Island, you must go by Sanibel Causeway, which is a 3-mile long wooden bridge (toll: $6 for motor vehicles ($3 per additional axle), free for bicycles). When on the island, go and explore the wildlife and see the Sanibel Lighthouse.

As for Captiva Island, shelling is one of the most popular leisure activities for families. To relax, apart from collecting shells while watching the picturesque sunsets you can also go on a cruise to watch dolphins on the South Seas Resort, or learn to sail on Offshore Sailing School.

What Historical UNESCO Places to Visit near Naples Florida

Immokalee

Meaning “my home” in the Seminole language, spoken by the ancient Calusa tribe who were the early occupants of the area, Immokalee Florida is a small town, filled with migrant workers from all over Latin America, and as such, a great place to visit to learn and explore the history of Florida. Fun and with great flair, the city offers authentic Mexican food, traditional farmer’s market and you can visit the Immokalee Pioneer Museum to learn about the history of Florida.
Want to go wild? Visit Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary to walk marshlands, birdwatch and see alligators in the swamp.

Florida Naples: Culture and Art Scene

Matlacha and Pine Island

An hour ride from Naples lies Matlacha and Pine Island. Just imagine a hippie dream of painted camper life, art all around and sun and beach to swim less than a few feet away. Sounds like a plan? Then go and visit Leoma Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens, and Wild Child Art Gallery. Matlacha has its own nature reserve, and nature and art still rule the lifestyle here, Visit while you can!

Everglades City and the Florida Everglades

No wonder the city is enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage site; the

Located 45 minutes to an hour south outside of Naples, The Florida Everglades is one of the great natural treasures of not only the United States but of the world, with its listing as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Founded in 1920s as the Collier County seat, Everglades City offers you kayaking, canoeing, experimenting with paddle boarding, or go fishing, but that is not all.

Gourmet Travel Guide and Fine Dining in Naples Area Florida

Naples is one of the wealthiest cities in the US. It sports the second place just after New York in millionaires per capita. And naturally, where money flows, good food follows. Fine dining near Naples is not a problem, but there are some must-visits. Especially, if you are going on a gourmet journey!

Marco Island

Located 30-minute ride away, Marco Island can be a life-changing experience. Watching the sun collide with the waves and the blood orange sky. Nevertheless, after spending a day in Tiger Tail Beach or walking the Lagoon, you will enjoy the taste of good wine. Coupled with wine, freshly cooked vegetable dishes are the speciality in Sale e Pepe or Marek’s Restaurant.

Cape Coral

Located about 31 miles north of Naples, Cape Coral offers it all. From Northern Italian restaurant Ariani Ristorante serving pasta (and steaks for its American audience) to Roadhouse Cafe offering private dining rooms and great service, to fondue place The Melting Pot, you can allow yourself to go on a journey of taste.

Naples Florida: How to Get Around

To get around Naples, a car is a necessity. This is the only way to get to natural attractions, like Everglades National Park’s Gulf Coast entrance in Everglades City. Drive the Interstate I-75 north-south known as Alligator Alley going between Naples Florida and Fort Lauderdale. U.S. 41, known as the Tamiami Trail, links Naples and Miami. REcommended for ones seeking a beautiful scenery is the Tamiami Trail, especially when driving through Everglades.

If you do not Have a Car, we recommend renting a car. You can also get around Naples taking the tourist two-hour tour trolley to get a feel of the city. Running daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., it will not, however, be a budget option, with tickets priced at $27 for adults and $13 for kids.

Where to Stay in Naples

Stay in vacation condo just like Bret Baier’s from FOX News Channel in Naples! Look up the best deals HERE.

And now, count again, Was it 10, or 9 places to visit?
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Best European Nature Festivals 2019

April 2, 2019/0 Comments/in Budget Travel, Culture and Experience Travel, Europe, Holidays and Festivals Around the World, Nature /

Looking for Europe Music Festivals August 2019? We too! Here is our guide.

Is the sun is shining out of the window leading you to restlessness waiting for the lunch break to escape the doomedness of sitting in front of your blue-lighted screen all day long? Even if the break is yet to come, you can freshen your mind already now, by taking a look at the amazing and diverse festivals in Europe this summer!

Kolorado

Where? Hungary

When? June 19 -22

What? Music and arts

Kolorádó is a good mix of arts and music for the ones tired of the popular music offered in the most popular Hungarian summer festival Sziget. Kolorádó allows to escape the crowds of the city and rest for a couple of days in the nearby Sztrilich Scout Park. the festival is quite new, being hosted for the fourth time in 2019. You can stay in Budapest, but we encourage you to dive deep into the festival aura and stay in a hammock in the forest, or a special mini house built exclusively for the festival. Drawing, painting and other visual arts are on the plan, so be ready for self-expression!

Ultra Europe

Where? Croatia

When? July 12 – 14

What? Music

Ultra is a multi-venue outdoor electronic music festival that is a part, happening in one of the most beautiful beach locations in Europe, in Split. Ultra Music Festival’s worldwide expansion is a guarantee for good music and unforgettable electronic music dance experience in Croatia this summer. Be sure you do attend at least one Ultra in your life in one of its twenty host countries.

La Linea

Where? England

When? April 25 – May 5

What? Music

If you are into Southern rhythms, this one is for you. Best Latin music performances in the heart of London is precisely what La Linea Festival London offers to its attendees. Every year showcasing new artists, the festival invites singer-songwriters with futuristic sounds to the mecca of European culture every spring. If you are looking for fusion styles in music, this one is just for you. Check out where to stay in London – we have both shared rooms, apartments, or hotel rooms for the best rest after a long day of pleasing musical experiences.

Showcasing new artists and singer-songwriters with futuristic sounds and fusion styles, you can expect lots of class and fun.

Positivus

Where? Latvia

When? July 26 – 27

What? Music

Positivus is another gem for the ones looking for an immersive nature and music experience. Hosted in the idyllic location just by the sea, the festival has seen major growth since 2007. It will be a great choice for those looking for an alternative European destination, as it is the heart of Eastern Northern Europe, allowing you to visit Nordic countries and the Baltics on your way.

Feel Festival

Where? Germany

When? July 11 – 15

What? Music and Dance

Feel festival is, just as described, for the ones who enjoy immersive experiences, feeling all aspects of a festival. Here you can camp almost directly on the beach, and visit Berlin before or after the festival, which is located by the Bergheider See 127km south of Berlin.

Boom

Where? Portugal

When? July 28 – August 4

What? Visual arts and music

Boom Festival is for the environmentally conscious ones enjoying the green forests and the wilderness of Portuguese nature. It is hosted every second year and won the Outstanding Greener Festival Award – the highest accolade of the four categories to be awarded, as a recognition for its environment and social program once again. Hosted according to periods of the Moon, and is one of the closest nature-immersive experiences you can possibly get while enjoying music and arts.

So now, when your coffee break is over, go and hit the productivity list. And, make sure to plan something amazing for your European summer adventure with CuddlyNest.

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Weekend in the Last Feudal State of Europe

January 26, 2019/0 Comments/in Europe, Nature /

Think feudal states are term straight out of history books? Then think once again. The last feudal state of Europe was brought to end only a little more than a decade ago. Read further to see what Sark Island in Guernsey, Channel Islands can offer and book your next stay in London, Sark and St Malo right away!

The Sark Island, located between France and the United Kingdom, however, still makes the top destination for those willing to enjoy air free from vehicle fumes, jump off the cliff and enjoy the best stargazing spot in the whole world. We got you? Read further and follow our 3-day itinerary, or plan your own!

How to Get to Sark

From London via train and ferry: go from London to Poole or Portsmouth via train and them take a Condor Ferry operated to Guernsey, afterward taking a Sark Shipping Company ferry from to Guernsey to Sark

From London via plane: Aurigny Air Services from London City Airport, London Gatwick, Stanstead, Blue Islands from London City and London Waterloo

From other cities in the United Kingdom via plane: Aurigny Air Services, Flybe and Blue Islands airplane companies operate from Bristol, East Midlands, Leeds, Edinburgh, Southampton.

From Continental Europe via ferry: there are ferries from France, St Malo in Normandy and Cherbourg

From Continental Europe via plane: from France, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, Spain and Italy there are flights operated by Flybe, Aurigny Air Services, and Blue Islands.

From America, Russia or other countries outside Europe it is best advised to take a flight to London Gatwick and then go further either via train and ferry or a plane.

3 Day London, Sark, and St Malo Itentiary

We were starting our trip by visiting London. Although famous for Birmingham palace and Royal gardens, we enjoyed the Tate Modern museum and a bag of fish and chips while catching the sun in Hyde Park on Friday afternoon. Taking the early morning train on Saturday to Portsmouth, we arrived at the coast around 9 am.

As we got out of the train, the sun was already high. It took approximately 20 minutes to get to the Condor ferry. As we had not booked ur tickets earlier, the price here was higher, so make sure you book your tickets beforehand.

Ferries from Portsmouth to Guernsey go every day, but to catch the boat to Sark the same day, you may want to take the morning one as we did.

It took around 40 minutes to get to Guernsey. Here we had some hours to walk around the touristic area, get some ice cream and eat lunch. I strongly advise you to get some groceries here if you travel on a budget, as the only grocery store in Sark is much more expensive and has a limited assortment.

To get to Sark, we got onto a small boat and enjoyed the trip. Arriving in the late afternoon, we checked in the hotel and had a stroll around.

The most famous and arguably the most beautiful and wild part of Sark is the Coupee which connects the main island to the Small Sark. As we stayed in the chocolaterie “Caragh’s Cholocates”, we had a sunset walk around, the place, passing the Pilcher Monument above Havre Gosselin and then heading to Small Sark for a dinner at La Sablonnerie. A little bit of splurge, it was an amazing time here. The place is out of the history book, with French cutlery and paintings hanging on walls.

Sunday our list was topped with breakfast at our hotel, followed by morning walk at the and lunch at Hathaway’s. Kids wanted to jump off the cliff at Venus Pool, and as the water was high, it was enjoyable and (more important than enjoyable) also safe. Another experience topping our to-do list was tea and scones at Sue’s Tea garden. Overwhelmed by walking (you can walk the whole island from North to South in just 40 minutes!) we got to the Stocks Hotel to enjoy our last dinner in Sark before leaving. There are both fine dining and bistro options, both offering great service and huge portions. No matter which you choose, make sure you split your meals – you will save money and still be full!

The next day before we took the ferry to Guernsey, we shopped around a bit and turned into Sark’s Pottery and crafts shop. Although overpriced, the shop offers handmade pots, silver jewelry, and other design items. But make sure you do not waste all your Guernsey pounds here (Guernsey has its own pound!) and save some for a shopping spree in Guernsey.

From Guernsey taking a boat to Dinard, France, we got to the mainland in the late Sunday night. Having only a weekend for our short family adventure, we could not visit and stay in St Malo and Grenoble, but will definitely return for our France weekend getaway soon.

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Winter Wonderland: European Destinations

December 26, 2018/0 Comments/in Europe, Nature /

Christmas is all about snow, Santa Claus, red ribbons, bells, gingerbread, and decorated Christmas trees. And we mean spruces here. Although you may or may not agree, one of the best spots to celebrate the winter solstice is where there is the least light, the lowest temperature, and the most snow. If you are in the US, you may go up to Canada or Maine, Minnesota or Wyoming, but if you happen to travel around Europe in winter, there are some must-visits for tapping into the winter wonderland. So hold tight, because we are going on a sleigh ride all around Europe!

The French Alps

French are famous for their fashion mecca Paris, their patisserie and champagne. But did you know that the French Alps is one of the best spots to dive into winter activities? Val d’Isère near Tignes may be just your next place to go if you have a soft spot for large ski resorts and prefer many ski tracks of different experience levels. From black to red, to large network of blue tracks, the remote valley captures what’ s beautiful about French Alps, namely the diversity and extensive choice for everyone, both snowboarders and skiers. If you are just starting out, yet want some glitz and sparkle, then Courchevel is the place to be. Multi-million properties and high-class are the specials for this luxurious ski resort, and why not? Winter is always fun, and more so if you have a dollar to spare.

Finland

If you seek to catch the glimpse of nature and truly white winter, then Finland is a shortcut to the absolute whiteness. They even have Santa Claus living just behind the polar circle! And if you go high enough to the very Northern areas of Finland, you will surely see all the colors of Northern Lights.

Being home to various winter sports and crazy activities, Finland will not leave you wondering what is the essence of winter vibes. And if you are crazy enough to go full in, you will see how people master wintertime. From saunas to winter swimming to ski jumping and nordic combined discipline, there is a wide range of activities you can do. And – did we mention raindeers? If you want to catch a vibe before going, a recommended movie is “Sami Blood” showing the harsh lives of reindeer-breeding Sámi peoples. The movie is set in neighboring Sweden in 1930s, and it may also be wise to visit Sweden if you are traveling from afar. Fun fact? Finland used to be ruled by Swedes for centuries and still has two national languages. If you go more to the west, you will definitely encounter Swedish more, and if you are a Dane or Estonian, you may very well get by using your mother tongue – Danish and Swedish are very similar, just as Estonian and Finnish.

Norway

If going outside of the European Union is not a dealbreaker, then Norway should also be on your travel list. It is wild (and expensive), yet going to mountains and seeing the views of mountain lakes and fjords will definitely be worth it. You may also ski downhill or do cross-country skiing. If you are more up for a laid-back atmosphere, you may want to go for dogsledding. Just get ready for a cold breeze and adrenaline! Ice fishing and ice skating are also popular wintertime activities, and you may do them anywhere you wish. For ice fishing, you do not need to obtain a license either, but better go prepared and in a company, especially if you are a first-timer. How often do you get a chance to slide over ice clearly seeing every single water green right under you?

Iceland

Of course, Iceland. No wonder, huh? Not that much of an ice cube anymore, yet full of breathtaking landscapes and views. You can cross-country ski, get into the sauna or even do mountain climbing here. Or, alternatively, you can ‘cuddly’ up with a cup of hot chocolate in an igloo or far-away farmhouses to relax from the busy city streets and finally enjoy freedom from all the responsibilities. If you are a photographer, there is no limit of your wandering photo walks, as the landscape colors change with every hour of the day. From rosy to green to burning yellow, nature presents itself at its best here. Be prepared for extreme weather though, just like in any other Northern country.

If you want to go from fairy tale to reality without losing the adventure and beauty, then you must visit Northern Europe whilst it is winter. From truly laid-back wintertime activities, like shopping in Christmas markets and dog sledding, to sports such as skiing and snowboarding for more active travelers, winter shall not be a threat but an opportunity to see the countries in their real light. Nature is breathtaking, but so are people, welcoming at houses with glogg and egg liqueur, or hot tea after a cold, crisp winter day outdoors.

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Pet-Friendly Holidays in Florida

December 4, 2018/0 Comments/in Americas, Nature, Travel Tips /

There is a question arising every year when planning a trip with a family, what about your paw friends? If there is anything besides the cost of bringing your four-legged friend with you on a trip, it’s bureaucracy and restrictions. Most of us do not even want to imagine the 2-week-long quarantine when entering South East Asian countries like Indonesia or Thailand, so many choose to go on a domestic trip by car. And where else is it better to enjoy summer than in Florida? Read on to get to know about the best ways to go around with your pet around Florida.

Entering Florida with Pets

There are several requirements to enter Florida with pets. First, you need to take with you an official certificate of veterinary inspection, so-called health certificate. The certificate at the date of the arrival must be issued less than 30 days back. It means that for your Christmas and New year holidays, it is wise not to wait for too long and start preparing now, while everyone is not going on vacation yet and the lines are not too long. You can obtain the health certificate in any vet office within a few hours. Another document you need to enter Florida is the documentation of current rabies vaccine. According to state laws, the vaccine must be renewed every 3 months, although the rules vary state by state. If you need your dog to be vaccinated, do not waste any time and get it done as soon as possible. Regarding rabies tag, it is not necessary for your pet to wear it, although there are some counties in Florida that do require pets to wear a rabies tag.

Flying with Pets

If you are coming a long way to Florida or just prefer to not waste your time in the car, then there are some additional things you should check before going on a holiday. If you are flying in Florida, then please contact the airlines to make appropriate reservations for your pet. Some companies require a certificate of acclimation or health certificate, but it depends on the airline and type of flight. In both cases, these can be provided by the veterinarian. Some airlines only accept health certificates within 10 days of examination, make sure to check it before.

Transport Your Pet with Shipping Company

If there is a sudden need to ship your pet to another country, there is no much choice other than using shipping service. To meet the requirements of import, you should get the application for import approved by the country of destination’ s consulate, an international health certificate from Florida and accredited veterinarian, as well as international possible testing and vaccinations. Another requirement is an endorsement of papers by a USDA APHIS Veterinary Services veterinarian. But note that some countries, like UK, require very early applications, having them submitted 6 months ago, and on top of that, also require microchipping, rabies testing and special import application.

Beaches with Dogs

If you are traveling and sunbathing with your whole family, you don’t want to leave your dog locked at the rental. Florida is quite welcoming in that sense. Having both off-leash beaches and beaches your dog need to be leashed up, there is a lot to choose from. In Fort De Soto Park, for example, dog owners are allowed to swim together with their pets, and the beaches are adapted to enjoy picnics, play with your dogs, let your dog socialize with others and have fun. For an added bonus, it was named America’s #1 beach in 2008 and 2009, pushing all records. If you are in Venice, FL, then Brohard Paw Park may be a good choice. Situated in Sarasota, it is the only pet-friendly beach in the county. Other beaches you should definitely consider are Bonita Beach Dog Park and Panama City Park, both very dog-friendly.

Get Around in the Public Transport

Thanks to a bill requiring Amtrak to accept dogs and cats as passengers in the trains, now you can travel around Florida without any problem. Your pet will be welcomed and given a ticket to, and you can carry your best friend as carry-on baggage. However, any dog that is too large to be carried in a bag will not be allowed to ride. To get around by taxi in cities, you can use Uber. There is a special pet taxi service in Florida, in all major cities from Miami to Fort Lauderdale to Orlando, but check properly before booking Uber.

Eat Out with Your Dog or Cat

Although getting around and going swimming with your dogs is not hard anymore, you could also start doing other activities, such as tackling hunger not only in parks or outdoor establishments, but also a high-end restaurant, such as especially price-friendly Voodoo Dog in Tallahassee, or Mad Dogs and Englishmen in Tampa. The best bet, however, if the hunger strikes when you are out with your pet and have not checked the restaurant selection in advance, is to go for beer gardens that are usually outdoor pubs where you can catch some sun, have a sandwich or burger, and have your dog well-rested right beside you. You should mind, though, that restaurants are still more welcoming to small and medium-sized dogs, and so it may be a good idea to always take the leash with you, in case you go for a run with your large four-legged friend.

All in all, Florida is truly pet-friendly and you can find shops, vacation rentals, and restaurants catering not only for your family but also for your pets. Getting into Florida state should not be a problem if you manage your travels well ahead and try to obtain your pets’ health statements and travel cards on time. You should also check out the best places to eat out before going on a vacation with a pet, just you do not miss any of the awesomeness whilst on holiday.

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The Smart Guide to Make This Holiday Vacation Sustainable and Choose Eco-Tourism to Save Our Planet

November 6, 2018/0 Comments/in Nature, Travel Tips /

You are all excited to plan your next holiday, and you just cannot wait to get all ready for the next vacation. From finding the right accommodation to getting the airplane tickets or planning a winter holiday for yourself or family can be a fun task. To make traveling beneficial not only for you, but also for the world around you – the local communities, nature, and economy – we at Cuddlynest believe in an eco-friendly travel and will share some tips in the following series. From stopping to wrap your suitcase in every flight to booking a short-term accommodation that does not harm the environment and local communities, get ready to educate yourself to make your travels better – and ultimately, to make the tourism a bit more of a sustainable practice.

Choose a destination that is not over touristic

You may call it going for an off-the-beaten-track path, or simply an adventurous, alternative and more authentic travel experience. Whichever label you choose, traveling to a destination which does not suffer from overcrowding in high season will result in not only a better life for locals but also a better travel experience. Machu Pichu, Amsterdam, Rome, and Paris have already put up measures from limiting vacation rentals to tourist buses allowed into central city areas in specific hours of the high season, and there are more cities to address the problem. Before choosing your travel destination, research the web, or just simply roll out the map of Google and spin around the globe a bit to select the destination you have not heard of yet. In the end, no one wants to spend hours getting through crowds of people to get a short sight of a famous landmark.

Book an Eco-Hostel or Green-Minded Vacation Rental

These days, finding a sustainable hotel is not a problem anymore. From off-grid penthouses to luxurious, yet eco-friendly pop-up tents in the middle of a dessert, you can find an accommodation that fits your needs and wants, but respects the environment with its rivers, oceans, and biodiversity. Before booking a place, make sure the eco-hostel or community-led accommodation provider utilizes green practices, such as does not use or limit the use of harmful cleaning chemicals, bleaches or other anti-environmental substances. Make sure your vacation home is free from chemicals – and you will have a happier, healthier and more responsible holiday ahead of you!

Compare Your Travel Time to Transportation Mode

We bet you already knew it, but once again, air transport is one of the most polluting of all. Embrace slow travel and see the world around you – do not just hop into plane and land on the other side of the world. Enjoy the ground travel – from buses to trains, it may be as exciting if not even more so, especially when traveling in Europe or Central Asia. Developed countries possess one of the best transportation networks, so you may as well use them! An additional perk, if you happen to be a business traveler or a freelancer – you can work while on the road. Opposite to airplanes which prohibit mobile connections while on air, you can work or study whilst on the train or bus. And in case you are tight on budget, night trains or buses can be a great way to save for a better accommodation in the destination.

Want to go an extra mile for a super green transport? Try carpooling! In Europe, BlaBla Car works wonders, but be sure to check out what carpooling service is the most popular in your destination country before going.

Skip motors, get the bike rolling!

We mean cycling, obviously. While motorbikes or scooters may seem nice for places like Indonesia, Cambodia or Laos, you may want to reconsider the use of polluting transportation mode whenever possible. Stop thinking how cheap the gasoline is for a second and better imagine how good is cycling – for both your health and environment. Not even mentioning Copenhagen, most European cities have a well-developed bike line network and rent-and-drop bike stations around the city. You may unlock a bike via a mobile app, take a stroll and drop it off on the nearest bike station. Just mind the differences in transportation culture – what is accepted in one country may be off-limits in another. Take your time to get from place to place – either on a bike or using your inner motor and walking!

Reduce the Waste – skip the Pre-made packaged meals!

It may be hard to resist to get in the corner shop and pick the first thing your eye settles on – a triangle sandwich in a shiny, well-designed plastic box. Even more so, it is hard to resist the urge to buy pre-made food, when your stomach is grumbling and dining out is being saved for dinners, not lunches. Still, we encourage you to step a bit further into the store and see what whole foods they have in offer. Most likely, you will find fruits and even vegetable selling. If you find an express grocery store, the chances are, they also have a bakery corner and salad bar there, so you can take your own lunchbox and refill it with salad whilst on the day tour. Both salads and other snacks bought at stores or taken in lunchboxes make great substitutions for lunches in city centers, where finding suitable and budget-friendly eateries is a well-known struggle for many. What is the best> Shopping in a local market will bring a whole new vibe to your lunch and – who knows – maybe you will get hands-on fruits that you have never tasted before!

Instead of Souvenirs, Send Postcards

Last, but not least – be mindful about your consumption for your loved ones. Although you may feel as expected to bring something from your travels home, rethink once again. Is a new fridge magnet really necessary? Are those leather sandals or a printed t-shirt needed, or is it just a way to express how deeply we care about our relatives? Better than gifting them, remember them whilst on the trip. Send them a handwritten letter or a postcard – especially if you are traveling for more than 2 weeks. It will arrive as soon as you do, and the un-materialistic value will add to the joy of recipients. Believe us, we have tried!

These are just some small changes that you can implement to make tourism a little bit more sustainable. Traveling should bring joy not only to you but the planet as a whole – and it is your responsibility to make it possible!

Do you have any other suggestions? Don’t hesitate to comment, we would love to share all the knowledge to make a better world!

Exotic marathons around the World in 2019

August 23, 2018/0 Comments/in Nature, SPA and Wellness /

Are you a running addict and you would like to perform a marathon outside your comfort zone? Well, this is the ideal post for you. We are going to discover what marathons are the most suitable long-distance trails for the craziest and toughest runners who need a bit of adrenaline an new goals. Of course, we all know the mythical marathons like New York, Athens or the great and mythical cities. Therefore, we will give you 5 options a little more alternatives.

1. The Great Wall Marathon (18th May 2019)

A Marathon that opened in 1999 and now has approximately 2,500 runners. A very tough race, since it crosses the 5,164 steps of the Great Wall of China, one of the most famous scenarios worldwide. Mentalize to endure the humidity and heat of the area, that is one of the most important conditions with which you will face.
If you are not prepared to run 42 kilometers but you still want to have the chance to experience it, do not worry, you can make other distances such as the half marathon or even an 8.5 km fun run.

2. Midnight sun Marathon (22nd June 2019)

The next edition of this marathon celebrates its 30th anniversary. The most curious thing about the race: the sun will accompany you all the way. With 24 hours of daylight in the summer, this unique evening marathon can start at 8:30 p.m.
Sure, you have to deal with possible freezing temperatures and a few crossings of the grueling Bridge of Tromso, but you might also spot some polar bears hiding out in the snowy mountains, too.

3. Inca Trail Marathon to Machu Picchu (June 28th – July 7th, 2019)

Rated as the toughest Marathon on the planet, it can not be completed in a single day or two. It is a little-known race since it only has 6 years old. It started in 2012 with 40 entries and is gradually increasing in number.
For this event, it is necessary to be an expert runner as it’s described like “A Marathon in distance but an ultra in effort”.
The highlight of the trip is one of the world’s hardest marathons as well as the most scenic South American marathon with the finish line at Machu Picchu (Peru).

4. Antarctic Ice Marathon (13th December 2019)

If you are into eccentricities this is your one. 42 km crossing the ice and the low temperatures characteristic of the Antarctic. That is why it is impossible to establish an average finish time since the weather conditions and terrain are variable from one year to the next. To give you an idea: The men’s event record of 3: 34.47 was set by Petr Vabrousek (CZE) in 2013, while the women’s event record of 4: 20.02 was set by Fiona Oakes (GBR) in 2013.
It’s a unique event that usually does not have more than 50 brave humans, are you one of them?

5. Great Ocean Road Marathon (18th May 2019)

This is a foot race on one of the most iconic routes of Australian road trips. But you must bear in mind that it can also be extremely hard: the point-to-point course is winding, hilly and is technically 45 Km in distance to the finish in Apollo Bay (although you’ll get a finish time at the 42 Km mark, too). A unique opportunity to experience another way of traveling by road.

Luckily for you, we have all kinds of accommodation to help you rest and prepare your body and mind for any challenge you have ahead. Take a look at our website and do not forget to pack your sports shoes!

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Top 5 beaches of 2018

July 13, 2018/0 Comments/in Nature /

It’s summer in the northern hemisphere and it’s time to enjoy the sun and sand while you relax on the shore with a good book and even a better cocktail. That’s why today we have decided to give you the Top 5 beaches hidden in all corners of the planet, so you can plan your trip with at least one day of relaxation in one of the wonders of nature.

7 Commandos Beach, Palawan, Philippines

The name “7 Commandos” is linked to a legend about seven soldiers who were trapped there during World War II. The Philippines is often named as a true paradise. Although the government has implemented measures against tourism in certain areas, the country still clearly occupies the first position as a favorite destination.

While it is true that among these measures is the closure of Boracay, there are many beaches of fine sand and crystal clear waters that can be enjoyed in the country. In Palawan, specifically, there are many beautiful islands, from north to south. In fact, it is one of the destinations most acclaimed by Internet users as the best destination on the island for years.

The Palawan area is known worldwide for the El Nido region, where the 7 Commandos beach is located. Protected by palm trees, visible miles from the coast, resembling armed guards. No matter if it is a story based on real events, the beach is popular for having a stretch of fine sand and coconut trees that welcome tourists and locals with its incredibly clear waters and rich in marine life.

Noosa Main Beach, Queensland, Australia

The only north-facing beach on the entire east coast of Australia, located right next to a European-style village that claims to be one of the most popular shopping areas among foodies in the country, Noosa Main Beach is an ideal place to enjoy an exceptionally sunny climate with your family or friends.

This coast of 100 km southeast of Queensland has a name that is self-explanatory: Sunshine Coast (Costa del Sol), and the unique enclave of Noosa Heads makes it an ideal place to start surfing. The orientation to the north reduces the waves making the waters unusually calm.

The area is close to the Noosa National Park, the dream of every hiker, surrounded by whitewater perfect for the most experienced surfers and other enthusiasts of extreme water sports.

Emerald Cave, Koh Muk, Thailand

Obviously, we could not leave Thailand out of the list. Home to the most partying people, as well as one of the largest digital nomadic communities in the world, Thailand always captivates travelers for its magnificent beauty and for being one of the friendliest people on earth, the Land of Smiles.

The country of the famous Maya Beach that Leonardo DiCaprio made world famous (which is now temporarily closed to save its marine ecosystem as a result of tourist exploitation), has other less known and more hidden places that are beginning to be the center of attention.

One of the small paradisiacal islands, Koh Muk, is located south of Krabi and near Trang and hides a treasure that all lovers of mysteries would love. A cave that leads to a small oasis within a rocky environment accessible only at low tide that. According to legends, pirates used as a hiding place for their treasures.

A group of explorers can access the site with a guide to take them through the cave while holding onto a rope. The rocky cliffs that surround a beach area and the green waters gave it its name: the Esmeralda Cave. Not recommended for claustrophobics.

Beach n.7 Havelock Island, Andaman

The Andaman Islands are a group of islands in the Bay of Bengal that is part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, belonging to the territory of India. Port Blair is the main community of these islands and the administrative capital of the territory, where it is reached by plane. Although the main island has its charm, it is best to take the ferry that takes you to Havelock, the island known as the paradise of travelers for its sublime silken beaches, twinkling teal shallows and some of the best diving in South Asia.

There, you will find Radhanagar Beach or more known as the beach no.7 with its turquoise waters and white sand make this beach a perfect spot to bask in the midst of nature’s bounty. Radhanagar Beach is located just 7 kilometers away from Vijaynagar Beach and Dolphin Yatri Niwas and about 12 km from Havelock Island. The lush and verdant trees on the side of beach offer tourists the opportunity to unwind and relish the serenity and nature’s charm. The breathtaking sight of sunset on this beach makes the tourists forget all the woes of life.

Cala Macarella, Menorca

Menorca is one of the Balearic Islands located in the Mediterranean Sea belonging to Spain. Its name derives from its size, contrasting it with nearby Majorca. The whole island is just impressive. If you are lucky enough to be able to rent a boat and tour the island on board, do not hesitate. There is no better way to discover the most paradisiacal corners of the island.
If you like water sports, it is best to go kayaking or even paddle surfing. You can go from one cove to another paddling. One of the most impressive beaches is Cala Macarella. Due to the massive influx this year you can not get there by car, so you have to take a shuttle bus, but you can walk and enjoy the wonderful scenery.
For that, you must go to Cala Galdana and leave the car in that town. Once there, follow Camí de Cavalls towards Cala Macarella (about 45 minutes with unbeatable views) and you will arrive at your destination. You can relax there and then return to the neighboring cove: Cala Macarelleta.
Another option is to row from Cala Galdana. There you will find kayaks and paddle surf to rent. It takes the same walking than rowing (medium pace).

Would you like to tell us about your top 5? Please comment below and help us to make the best memories for everyone 😉

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