If you’ve read books such as the classic ‘Eat, Pray, Love’, then you’ll understand the link between travel and self-love. When life gets too much, or you just want a dramatic change, travel is always a solution. There’s something exhilarating about randomly booking a ticket out of normality and switching up your environment. Traveling spontaneously is what adventure is all about and we are delighted to collaborate with our friends Agness and Cez from eTramping to share some of their thoughts on this concept.
The thing is, when you travel, you learn. It’s like opening up hundreds of tiny doors and passing through them. Each time you reach the other side, you’ve learned another lesson. No matter your age, it is important to keep your knowledge up to date and refreshing your mind. It stops you from becoming stagnant and it keeps you moving. What better way to keep your mind active than by traveling the world and exploring the myriad of amazing destinations waiting to be discovered!
Reconnect with Yourself
In a world where we are constantly connected to the internet, do we ever get a minute to ourselves anymore? When was the last time you actually sat down and reconnected with your mind?
Well, luckily travel helps you to do that, especially if you opt for independent travel. You’ll find yourself in places where you just have your mind to speak with. For instance, on long-distance train journeys or mountain hikes, you’ll feel as though your thoughts are running back to you and all those oppressed feelings are released.
The Variety of Self-Love
Self-love differs from person to person. What you believe self-love to be, someone else may have a TOTALLY different opinion about it. That’s why travel opens your mind up to the sheer variety of self-love and the diverse forms it comes in. In today’s world, numerous sources are highlighting the link between self-love and solitude.
Many believe that you have to be alone to channel your innermost dreams and desires. If you’re alone then you’ll be less committed to fulfilling the needs of others and focused on your own.
However, some cultures believe that self-love is the act of sharing and spreading love among the community. The differences are everywhere and they’re all out there for you to discover and interpret.
It Doesn’t Have to End
What you’ll realise on the journey to self-discovery is that once you inhabit a sense of fulfilment, it doesn’t have to end. Never feel as though you have to limit yourself or that you’re not worthy of more. That’s likely to be a lie you’re telling yourself so that you don’t have to face the truth again. To keep what you’ve learned alive, you can share your lessons with others and remind yourself of how far you’ve come.
The problem is that some members of society view travelling as a ‘phase’. They think you’re going to grow out of it and come back to the ‘real world’. Yet, what is the real world anyway? Surely it’s whatever you want it to be and not what other people perceive it to be!
You’ll Never Stop Learning
Never stop learning! As the great life coach, Tony Robbins states, we should always be open to knowledge. There’s no use closing yourself off and pretending that you know it all. Even if you think you do know everything there is to know, there’s a high chance that you don’t. We often believe that our learning stops when we finish school or once we’ve obtained our degree.
However, what about all the lessons that these educational institutions do not teach us? When you’re on your journey, there will be so many little lessons along the way. Strangers will strike up conversations and tell you interesting stories. Friends may open up and let you in on secrets that they’ve never shared with you before.
You just don’t know what will happen or how much new knowledge you will acquire. So keep your mind open and allow others to widen your awareness.
Love Spreads
Once you’ve mastered the spirituality of self-love, it spreads. It will start to radiate through your expressions and your actions. You’ll feel so much better from within as you’ve given yourself a chance to breathe and figure out what it is you really want from life. If you have a partner, you may find a new lease of life and want to experience holiday escapes with them.
For instance, you may take a vacation to a desolate rainforest retreat or book romantic Caribbean holidays in Excellence Resorts. Self-love spreads like wildfire and people around you will find it to be contagious. As they say, once you’ve learned to love yourself you can begin to love others.
Seek and You Shall Find
This is a very old saying but a very wise one. Once you start looking you’re bound to stumble upon something of interest. It may not be exactly what you had in mind, but that’s the beauty of it! Travel adventures surprise you. You never truly know what’s going to happen on your trip, who you may meet or what you might do. Usually, it is the element of surprise that keeps you going.
Have you ever watched someone telling another about their travel story? The way their eyes light up and the joy and laughter that the words bring. It’s like they’ve suddenly sparked up and want to share every detail with you. It is always the last-minute plans that lead to the best experiences.
Live the Life You Deserve
Coming back from an eye-opening adventure can feel like a crash back down to earth. Due to society’s pressures, we hear it calling after us and wanting us back to the life we had before. A lot of people experience a strong sense of guilt, as if they should conform again and that they should satisfy other people’s expectations. Well, not everyone is going to see the world the same way you do. That’s the truth of it.
Unfortunately, on a planet obsessed with social media, we can’t help but compare ourselves to other people’s lives. This creates feelings of inadequacy, jealousy and even frustration. The sooner you accept yourself the way you are, the sooner you’ll live the life you deserve.
Fear will always be there but you can overcome it like so many others have in the past. We only get one shot, so use it to your advantage.
Has travel ever taught you anything about Self-Love?
When it comes to celebrating the festive holiday season, there is no better place to be than a historic European city that is full of Christmas cheer! Travelers from all corners of the globe head to Europe in anticipation of enjoying the festive spirit and undoubtedly the best way to achieve this is by experiencing a myriad of Christmas markets across a variety of European cities. Why not consider entertaining the prospect of taking one of these awesome Christmas market breaks in Europe, not only because of the iconic markets but also because of all the other attractions that make each city so popular?
We want to share some of the best European cities than should be on your radar this year and we are delighted to collaborate with some of our friends from around the world that have been fortunate enough to visit their recommended spot. Drinking mulled wine in Berlin, finding the best handcrafted Christmas ornaments in Budapest or perhaps just listening to traditional festive music in London are surely enticing prospects this year.
Best Christmas Market Breaks in Europe
Hopefully after reading this post along with our other recommendations on where to spend Christmas in Europe, you will be raring to hop on a plane and head to your favorite city! We have asked our friends to not only highlight their favorite Christmas market in their chosen city but also highlight one or two other reasons for visiting this destination. Throw in a recommended hotel and restaurant and hopefully we will have plenty of inspiration to justify an end of year trip to Europe.
Christmas markets have long been a tradition that we associate with Europe. It’s an opportunity for locals to showcase their homemade products that epitomize the local culture. It also offers locals and visitors alike to spend time mingling among each other while indulging in iconic, traditional cuisine and sipping on a glass of wine or hot chocolate to keep them warm in the freezing cold temperatures that we associate with Europe in December.
Let’s take a look at which European cities made this year’s list and of course, please feel free to leave your recommendations in the comments below as to where we need to visit across Europe during the holiday season. You may be surprised by one or two of these gorgeous destinations!
Basel
Basel has some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, full of fascinating traditions and special charm. Captivated by the dominating skyline at Basel’s highest point is the spacious Munsterplatz Christmas markets, with fairy tale Christmas stalls set out like a small town under chestnut trees decorated with beautiful lights. But the main features of Munsterplatz is Munster cathedral and a giant, beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
Barfusserplatz is another Christmas market with a large Christmas pyramid surrounded by stalls selling sweet and savoury treats like pretzel bread, grilled sausages, gingerbread, fresh potato puffs and raclette cheese. In the inner courtyard of the Town Hall add your Advent wishes and hopes for peace and good health in the Basel wish book.
In addition to the Christmas markets Basel has a lot to see and do and is a great weekend destination.
It is a charming city lined with cobblestoned streets, inviting cafes and over 40 museums. The baroque architecture of the beautifully adorned houses, galleries, delicatessens and other buildings in the historic alleyways of the old town will have you enchanted. There is the whimsical decorative Tinguely Museum, the Gate of Spalen, a former city gate considered one of Switzerland’s most beautiful and the rich history.
But the surprise for us was a massive mural depicting many rock legends like Bob Marley, Mick Jagger, Jimi Hendrix and more. It incorporated the Beatle’s Abbey Road album cover with Billy Joel, Amy Winehouse, Freddie Mercury, Janis Joplin and many others.
I am sure if you had a weekend in Basel the narrow alleyways, secluded squares, impressive buildings and vivid cityscape will charm you too.
Recommended Hotel
Novotel Basel City Hotel Grosspeterstrasse 12 4052 Basel, Switzerland Tel: +41 61 306 68 68
Bar Restaurant zum Sperber Münzgasse 12, 4001 Basel, Switzerland Tel: +41 61 264 68 00
Thanks to Lyn and Steve Baker from A Hole In My Shoe for sharing their thoughts on why Basel should be on your radar this year! Be sure to check out their site for more information on their travels.
Bremen
As a local, I might be biased but I think, Bremen is a wonderful place to visit before Christmas and to enjoy a great weekend break. Bremen’s Christmas Market is unique and beautiful – probably one of the most beautiful ones in Germany!
The Market Square in the city center is filled with many stalls selling gifts, snacks, and mulled wine. There are even some small carousels for the children and the Christmas lights make everything look very festive. However, the Market Square is not the only place with many stalls- just stroll along the city center or the train station to find even more.
Head to the Old Town of Bremen, the Schnoor and get lost in the extremely narrow streets with historic and colorful buildings (some are older than 500 years), though it is very festive there as well, it is less Christmas like than around the Market Square.
If it snows, do not forget to have nice walks in the Wallanlagen – a beautiful park with a little river. It is a great place for a nice stroll on a sunny winter day.
Finish your days off at the Schlachte. The Schlachte is a beautifully decorated area – a promenade on the Weser River where many restaurants are lined up. This place looks incredibly pretty in winter and the restaurants offer all kind of food.
Merry Christmas and enjoy a great stay in Bremen!
Recommended Hotel
The Radisson Blu directly located next to the Market Square is a nice 4-Star hotel. However, if you are looking to experience ultimate luxury while visiting Bremen, stay at the gorgeous Dorint Park Hotel located in a beautiful, quieter part of the city, yet still centrally located.
Dorint Park Hotel Bürgerpark, 28209 Bremen, Germany Tel: +49 421 34080
There are many nice restaurants- at the “Schlachte” visit Camarillo. A bit further in “Überseestadt” is my favorite restaurant and the biggest in Bremen (still always very busy) El Mundo.
El Mundo Konsul-Smidt-Straße 10a, 28217 Bremen, Germany Tel: +49 421 384010
Thanks to Arzo from Arzo Travels for sharing her thoughts on why Bremen is the perfect European Christmas destination! Be sure to check out her site for more information.
Budapest
Budapest, the capital of Hungary is an awesome destination for those, who want to have a white Christmas. The temperature falls below zero in most cases in December and it often snows.
Also, Hungarians really enjoy the Christmas spirit and there are many Christmas markets all over the city, where you can shop for traditional Hungarian Christmas presents and taste some Hungarian dishes and sweets like Kurtos Kalacs and Beigli.
People love drinking mulled wine. The city is beautifully lit up and you can hear Christmas songs everywhere. Winter sport enthusiasts can also ice-skate in these markets. It is a beautiful time of the year in Budapest. Whether you only have time to explore Budapest in one day or plan on spending several days in the Hungarian capital, come and check it out if you can bear the cold!
Recommended Hotel
Aria Hotel Budapest by Library Hotel Collection Budapest, Hercegprímás 5, 1051 Hungary
Kör is a great restaurant that serves traditional Hungarian food next to the Bazilika.
Café Kör Budapest, Sas u. 17, 1051 Hungary Tel: +36 1 311 0053
Thanks to Barbara Wagner from Jet-Settera for sharing her thoughts on why Budapest is a great European Christmas destination! Be sure to check out her site for more information.
Cologne
For a truly traditional European Christmas market break, Cologne in Germany is a must. There’s not just one but six different Christmas markets dotted throughout this city on the Rhine. All the markets have beautiful Christmas lights and decorations and quaint wooden huts but each market has its own unique character and atmosphere.
For me, the best thing about the Cologne Christmas markets is the food and drink. Everywhere you turn, stalls tempt you with warm pretzels, sizzling bratwurst sausages, roasted chestnuts and ginger cookies whilst the aroma of spiced hot glühwein perfumes the air.
When you need a break from the markets, you can relax in the Claudius Therme thermal baths or take a tour of the Schokoladenmuseum chocolate museum and create your own bespoke chocolate bar. For something a little more educational and sombre, you can visit the old Third Reich Headquarters at El-De-Haus.
For great food by the cathedral head to the Brauhaus Früh am Dom (Früh brewery at the cathedral). Make sure you order the local Kölsch beer and the local dish Himmel Un Ääd (Heaven and Earth).
Brauhaus Früh am Dom Am Hof 12-18, 50667 Cologne, Germany Tel: +49 221 2613215
Thanks to Melanie May for sharing her thoughts on why Cologne is the ultimate European destination for Christmas markets among many other things. Be sure to check out her site for more information.
Dresden
Dresden is a beautiful city to visit at anytime of year but in the winter with the influx of Christmas markets, it really comes to life. The Striezelmarkt on the Altmarkt square is the largest market in Dresden and also the longest continuously running Christmas Market in all of Germany. The buildings in the market are carefully decorated with carved figures, animated in Christmas scenes, the view from the main Ferris Wheel is the best way to enjoy these displays.
Sip hot and perfectly spiced Gluhwein while browsing the carefully handcrafted ornaments still produced in the traditional ways in villages in the Ore Mountains. There are 4 other Christmas markets in the old town. Sitting in amongst the grand Baroque buildings of the city palace, Zwinger and Frauenkirche.
Museums stuffed with treasures and art, most collected by the most notable ruler of Saxony, Augustus the Strong, make a perfect stop to warm up and maybe sober up before heading out for more Gluhwein, shopping and eating at the nearby markets. The Historic Green Vault is the most popular Museum in Dresden, entry is via a timed airlock so booking is recommended.
Recommended Hotel
Stay at the Vienna House QF Hotel, an elegant but modestly priced hotel next to the Frauenkirche with direct access to 3 of the main Christmas Markets, it is the perfect location.
Vienna House QF Hotel Neumarkt 1, 01067 Dresden, Germany Tel: +49 351 5633090
For a hearty German meal in a Bavarian-style beer hall head to the Altmarktkeller, this underground restaurant sits on the edge of the Altmarkt square right by the Striezelmarkt.
Thanks to Kaylie Lewell from Happiness Travels Here for sharing her thoughts on why Dresden is the perfect European destination for Christmas markets among many other things. Be sure to check out her site for more information.
Graz
The beautiful Austrian city Graz is a true beauty. The second largest city in Austria and the capital of Styria, was added to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites back in 1999 – and this is definitely not surprising. Graz is full of cobblestoned streets, cute buildings and amazing landscape. Especially in winter, this city really starts to sparkle, when 14 truly Austrian Christmas markets add a special atmosphere to the rather old, traditional and sleepy city.
Then, it is also the perfect time to get to the Schlossberg. This mountain lies on top of the city and functions as perfect lookout for those, that are sunset-lovers just like myself. Within five minutes the funicular will take you to the top.
The mountain is 123 meters high and during Christmas time home to one of the most romantic Christmas markets I have ever seen. It’s called “Aufsteirern” and is somehow a mix of medieval market and a magic Christmas play that takes place right around you.
But Austrians are also good in partying – even during the cold winter days. Every Friday, they meet at the “Wonderlend” Christmas market. It’s located in the cool and upcoming district Lend and combines some proper old Austrian and German music with Christmas atmosphere. Could it get any better? You’re cold winter feet will vanish immediately – promise!
Recommended Hotel
Hotel Das Weitzer Grieskai 12-16, 8020 Graz, Austria Tel: +43 316 7030
Thanks to Clemens Sehi from Travellers Archive for sharing his thoughts on why Graz is the perfect European destination for Christmas markets. Be sure to check out his site for more information.
Prague
Prague is one of the most visited capitals in Europe. While winter is not the best time of year to go due to the cold weather, the atmosphere during Christmas time is incredibly cozy: Christmas lights and decorations are up; markets can be found all over the city selling crafts, local products, and a lot of good and cheap street food (and drinks).
Among the unmissable places to visit in Prague there’s Charles Bridge, which connects the Old City with Mala Strana. The view from there is stunning. Once in Mala Strana, it is possible to walk to Prague Castle, where the beautiful St. Vitus Cathedral is located. Sunset views from Prague Castle are stunning, and if one looks carefully enough it is also possible to see the Dancing House, one of Prague’s iconic attractions.
Christmas markets in Prague are spread all around the city. One of the best ones is that located right below St. Ludmilla Cathedral, in the center of the city. Since it is not directly in the Old City, it gets a bit less tourists. A beautiful tree is at the centre of the square, and all the stalls surround it.
Recommended Hotel
Miss Sophie’s is a lovely boutique hotel with incredibly cozy rooms, stylishly furnished. Breakfast is served in the adjacent hostel and includes a cold buffet and a hot brunch. All guests are welcomed in their rooms by a bottle of champagne, one of water, and a few local snacks.
Miss Sophie’s Melounova 3, 120 00 Nové Město, Prague, Czech Republic Tel: +420 210 011 200
Café Imperial is located in a gorgeous historic building and serves both traditional Czech dishes and international cuisine. Café Louvre is equally nice, and an ideal place to stop for a hot drink during the cold winter days.
Café Imperial Na Poříčí 15, 110 00 Nové Město, Prague, Czech Republic Tel: +420 246 011 440
Thanks to Claudia Tavani from My Adventures Across The World for sharing her thoughts on why Prague is an awesome Christmas destination. Be sure to check out her site for more information.
Verona
Christmas Markets in Italy, known in Italian as Mercatino di Natale are not as numerous or on the same grand scale as the network of Christmas markets in Germany. Nevertheless, a visit to an Italian Christmas Market is one to remember. We loved visiting one such market in the city of love.
The Christmas market in Verona is held at Piazza dei Signori, an UNESCO World Heritage Site which has always been a meeting point for culture and traditions. It was transformed and dressed in lights, sounds and colors of Christmas. The entrance to the city wall was illuminated by hundreds of lights, going through all the streets of the historic center, and arriving in the beautiful Piazza Bra, along with Roman Arena and decorated with an impressive Christmas tree on the square.
The Italians pride themselves on the elaborate crib displays and nativity scenes on display at many Italian Christmas Markets. As with any Christmas Market the Italian stallholders in Verona had mouth-watering displays of local food and drink plus of course the usual array of locally manufactured seasonal gift items. We wandered around looking at the wares in the different stores and tasting the food.
The freshly baked potato pizzas were awesome claimed my kids as the eyed the chocolate dipped strawberries. We bought some trinkets and truffle in a bottle to take back home as souvenirs.
Recommended Hotel
If you find yourself in Verona, stay at the Escalus Luxury Suites – Named after the character Escalus, the Prince of Verona, in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Escalus Luxury Suites Hotel is an all-suite hotel steps from the Roman amphitheatre in the center of Verona.
Every Italian region has its own culinary heritage, and Verona is no exception. Visit a traditional Osteria and try local risotto, rich bowls of stew with polenta, or soft potato gnocchi.
Thanks to Priya Vin from Outside Suburbia for sharing her thoughts on why Verona is an awesome Christmas destination. Be sure to check out her site for more information.
Summary
Christmas in Europe is unlike anywhere else in the world. When it comes to Christmas markets, the traditional Old Town of a European city is the idyllic location for locals to showcase their homemade products and as you can see, it’s not just the iconic cities that are worth visiting.
We would like to thank all of our contributors for collaborating with us on this post and hopefully we have inspired you to consider heading to Europe to explore some of these gorgeous cities. We just returned from an amazing European adventure around the Baltic States and I would strongly recommend entertaining Christmas in Tallinn, Estonia in the future because this epitomizes everything a European Christmas is about.
Have you experienced any of these Christmas market breaks before? Which are your favorite European cities to celebrate the festive season?
DISCLAIMER – This post contains affiliate links. Should you choose to make a purchase via one of our links, we may receive a small commission. This income helps A Brit & A Southerner continue to explore and share inspiring stories.
Are you an avid traveler looking for a great way to track all of your travels? Perhaps you are looking for something that will help plan your future bucket list destinations? We have the perfect solution to solve both of these questions – Push Pin Maps!
What better way to keep track of all your adventures than with your very own, personalized push pin map that gives you the flexibility to track a number of things. More on this aspect later but we are also delighted to announce that at the bottom of this post, we are offering YOU an opportunity to WIN one of these awesome push pin maps in our latest giveaway.
Push Pin Maps – The Story
“Life got in the way of our love of travel. Our vacation photos lived on our phones and we quickly forgot how much fun we had as soon as our trips ended. After we made our first push pin map, we realized it was a piece of art that’s fun to use and also a visual reminder of the great places we’ve gone and where we want to go next.” (Ashley and Eric Gibbons, Co-Founders of Push Pin Maps)
When Ashley and Eric Gibbons started creating maps in early 2015, they realized that they had an opportunity to fill a niche for personalized, fun to use maps that would allow customers the opportunity to create memories they will always cherish. What better way to reflect on your past travels than by being able to take a look at a gorgeous canvas highlighting all the places you have visited.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Push Pin Maps family is that everything is printed and packaged by a printing partner based in the United States. All too frequently we see outsourcing take place for cheaper manufacturing costs but it’s great to see that Ashley and Eric are focused on keeping everything “in-house” so to speak and helping companies thrive in the United States.
Selection of Maps
Let’s take a look at the process involved with ordering one of the gorgeous, personalized push pin maps. It all starts when you head over to the website and take a look at the options available. You will immediately notice there are a variety of designs to choose from, all customizable and unique to the type of traveler you are.
Whether you are looking for something for yourself or perhaps a gift for the world travelers in your life, this is definitely a great option. It’s a three step process as follows:
1. Select Your Customized Preferences
2. Review E-Mail Proof of Your Design
3. Receive Your Map in Less Than 2 Weeks
It’s as simple as that folks and trust us when we say, it’s a seamless process and one that Ashley and Eric will ensure goes smoothly! I’m sure you are ready to take a look at some of the customizations available, so let’s see what Push Pin Maps offers.
Customizable Options
When you start thinking about creating a personalized map, you need to figure out if you are looking for a world map or perhaps one just for the United States. Push Pin Maps offers a variety of designs to choose from, ranging from world maps to maps of the United States highlighting all of the national parks.
World vs US National Park Map
There are currently 8 different designs to choose from, each offering a unique perspective and visual interpretation on your travels.
Classic National Park Push Pin Map
Classic World Push Pin Map
Dark Blue National Park Push Pin Map
Dark Blue World Push Pin Map
Seaside US Caribbean Push Pin Map
Seaside World Push Pin Map
Vintage Blue National Park Push Pin Map
Vintage Blue World Push Pin Map
As you can imagine, it’s already a tough choice. Ok, so once you have decided which design you want (we opted for #4…the Dark Blue World Push Pin Map) you can move on to more customizable options.
Size
How much wall space do you have? Do you want to go big or REALLY BIG? What is your budget? These are all questions that you will need to determine before selecting your size. Dependent on the medium you want also (see below), this will also play a role in the size you want to purchase.
We have the 32×48″ canvas which is a great size but the fact that this came in one panel also played a role. If you go any bigger than this, you will have at least 2 panels of canvas. Here are the sizing options available:
24×36″
32×48″
40×60″
48×72″
60×90″
Medium
There are several options available if you opt for the smaller (let’s be honest 24×36″ is hardly small!) push pin map. From a framed foam board to wrapped canvas to a rolled print, these are all available options in this size.
If you want anything larger, your medium options will be a little more restrictive but we highly recommend the canvas for any size that you go for. All options are ready to hang out of the box so regardless of which option you choose, the moment you receive your map, you will be ready to display it.
Header
This is where the fun really starts! How personalized do you want this? Do you own a travel blog like we do? Do you want it to specifically have your names rather than blog name? All of these are choices you have when it comes to the header.
We have no recommendations here at all because ultimately, it’s your decision! Go with something that is memorable and will be “everlasting!”
Footer
The footer offers you the opportunity to add maybe a catchphrase or slogan that you follow when exploring the world. Or perhaps you just want to add something like “Chris and Heather Traveling Together Since 2010” highlighting when your adventures traveling across the globe started.
At the end of the day, this is YOUR map and what you want to include should be personalized as you see fit!
Push Pin Key
Having a variety of different colored push pins wouldn’t really make much sense if you didn’t have a key to follow! Don’t worry, Ashley and Eric have thought all of this through and left a spot specifically to address this.
Perhaps you want to have four different options or maybe just “Where You Have Been” and “Where You Want To Go” or words to that effect.
***WIN*** Giveaway – ENTER NOW
We are delighted to be collaborating with Push Pin Maps to offer you an opportunity to win your very own, personalized map! One lucky winner will win their very own 24×36″ Wrapped Canvas with the winner choosing any of the above 8 designs along with all the available customizations that go with this!
The only condition is that Push Pin Maps will only ship to a US address so you need to either be based in the United States or have an address in the US where this can be shipped! Beyond that, good luck folks and ENTER NOW!
***DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES – SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2017***
WINNER WILL BE SELECTED RANDOMLY, ANNOUNCED SHORTLY AFTER THE DEADLINE AND WILL BE CONTACTED VIA E-MAIL/SOCIAL NETWORKS TO WORK DIRECTLY WITH ASHLEY AND ERIC ON CUSTOMIZING THEIR DESIGN
Christmas is right around the corner folks…whether it’s your favorite time of year because of all the festivities or perhaps a time when you get ready to relax away from work for a while, we all have one common problem – what to buy for friends and family! It’s a million-dollar question and frequently this phrase has more than one connotation associated with it because Christmas gift purchases can be extremely expensive! Well, folks, it’s time to change that, particularly if you have friends and family that are avid travelers. We are ready to share some of the best gifts for world travelers that we think are perfect for the upcoming holiday season.
Forget the stereotypical gift ideas that generally include a pair of socks or gift card to their favorite restaurant and instead, get ready to think outside the box a little bit and provide your loved ones with something they will always cherish. We have a collection of awesome products that we think every aspiring (or seasoned) traveler will love!
Whether you are looking for something trendy, useful or perhaps something just a little bit different, we think that the products below will have everyone heading to the nearest stores or websites and filling their baskets with them.
We have been extremely fortunate to utilize all of these, so you are getting first-hand recommendations based on our own personal use! We all too frequently read travel gear reviews or recommendations from folks that have never actually used them so we hope you will appreciate our honest judgments and perhaps inspire you to buy one or more of these for this Christmas season.
Best Gifts for World Travelers
Let’s start by dividing our recommendations into two separate categories – travel gear/apparel and travel accessories!
Who doesn’t want something from all of these categories? I know, we can’t be too greedy but come on guys, it’s CHRISTMAS! We think that our recommendations will not only appeal to every type of traveler, you could, in fact, argue that all of these ideas could be potential gifts for those awkward individuals who prefer “staycations!”
Travel Gear and Apparel
If you are a frequent traveler, whether it’s a long weekend road trip or a vacation overseas, having the right travel gear (backpacks and luggage) and apparel (rain gear, shoes etc.) is critical. I am generally a proponent of finding a great deal but when it comes to this area, I am firmly in the mindset that you get what you pay for!
There are a lot of brands out there that offer high-quality products but we have a few favorites that we want to share with you if you are looking to buy a loved one something in this area.
Here are the products we will be featuring in this guide:
The North Face GORE-TEX Terrain Rain Jacket
The North Face Surge Backpack
Travel Accessories
When it comes to handy travel accessories, the market is saturated! It’s a known fact, wherever you look for gadgets or cute gifts in the travel domain, the list is endless. From travel journals to passport holders to packing cubes, you cannot help but stumble across something that all travelers are going to love.
However, we want to take it a step further and look for the ultimate “unique” product or perhaps something that will always be handy regardless where you are in the world!
Why not find something unique to a traveler that has been to a certain country or perhaps state if they travel only within the United States? Or maybe something a little more generic (one of which we will be recommending shortly) that can satisfy everyone’s travel desires!
Here are a couple of products we are going to cover in this category:
The Qottle
Personalized Push Pin Map
The North Face Terrain Jacket
When you live in the UK for the first 23 years of your life, you quickly realize that finding a reliable rain jacket is critical. It may be a stereotype that it always rains in England but let me tell you, it’s a reality!
But a little rain is never going to stop the British from heading outside and exploring and having a great rain jacket is definitely something we all look for.
Let us introduce you to the awesome Terrain jacket by The North Face. We have been avid users of The North Face products for quite some time now and yes, it’s a “name brand” but it’s one that is reliable, affordable and definitely one we will continue to use in the future.
Lightweight, durable, breathable and most importantly, comfortable. These are all key characteristics what we look for in a rain jacket and this is undoubtedly the perfect Christmas gift for anyone heading to the UK or a destination renowned for wet weather.
Match your go anywhere attitude with this technical, all-terrain jacket from The North Face (Millets)
We will be providing a more detailed review of this product in the near future but we strongly recommend heading over to Millet’s website to take a look at their portfolio of The North Face products.
The North Face Surge Backpack
I don’t know about you but I carry a backpack everywhere I go! Whether I am heading to work and need to carry my laptop, heading to Starbucks to enjoy my favorite espresso or on our travels, I take a backpack everywhere. When I stumbled across The North Face 33L Surge Backpack, I knew we were on to a winner.
Heather also carries a backpack when we are traveling so if you are looking for the perfect “daysack,” look no further than this awesome option.
Everything you need on a daily basis can be held inside this lightweight backpack while at the same time offering a durable and secure option knowing that your valuables will be kept in a safe place.
Combine this with the above Terrain rain jacket and you can see why we are so in love with The North Face product line!
You may have noticed that I recommended visiting the UK website, Millets. This company is part of the Blacks Outdoors Retailers and headquartered in Bury, England. By the way, Bury is my hometown, hence the reason I am particularly fond of this outdoor company!! For the UK readers out there, head over and check out the nearest store which carries a range of awesome products by The North Face.
Don’t worry though, international delivery is also available at incredibly low prices!! For only £9.99 ($13), you can get standard delivery to the United States – that’s cheaper than many domestic US companies!
The Qottle
Looking for a slightly cheaper alternative but equally useful? Check out the awesome Qottle water bottle! This double-wall vacuum insulated water bottle comes in a variety of colors and sizes and is the perfect stocking gift this Christmas.
One of our top travel tips for travelers is to take a water bottle everywhere. Not only is this cost-efficient, rather than paying for bottled water, it can also prove to be a life-saver.
If you are heading to remote locations, it’s critical to carry enough water with you to stay hydrated. The Qottle is a stainless steel bottle that will keep your water cold or alternatively, your coffee hot for up to 24 hours.
The selection of vibrant colors in either a 24oz or 32oz option is definitely something you should consider this Christmas if you are short of ideas for folks that tend to already have everything.
Personalized Push Pin Map
We mentioned that we were going to recommend something a little “different” and “creative” and that is exactly what we associate with Push Pin Maps.
Create your very own personalized map of the world or the United States and share with a close friend or family member. With a variety of sizes and canvas options to choose from, these maps are undeniably a gift EVERYONE is going to love.
When owners Ashley and Eric started this business, their intention was to create a product unlike anything else on the market. I think it’s fair to say they have achieved this goal! What better way to create memories of your travels than by being able to keep track of every stop on your adventure around the world.
Not only can you track previous travels, it’s a great way to plan your future endeavors.
A family business based on a love of travel.
Each map is “ready to hang” the moment you unpack it from the box. As Ashley and Eric perfectly indicated, “We hope our travel maps and apparel provide a source of inspiration for you to see more of the world and, along the way, discover parts of yourself that you never knew existed.”
A variety of designs and sizes are available so dependent on your budget and preference, there is something for every world traveler on your shopping list.
Summary
Rather than giving you a long list of travel products, we wanted to focus on a select group of awesome options that everyone is going to love. Each option offers something a little different, so dependent on who you are purchasing for will surely determine which works best for you.
Do we have a favorite item? Honestly, all of them! I think it’s fair to say the Push Pin Map is the most “personalized” option so we are going to have a real soft spot for that, particularly when we admire our “A Brit and A Southerner” world map every day in our living room.
However, in terms of practicality, The North Face products are going to be traveling with us everywhere we go. And don’t forget that all important Qottle water bottle that is the most affordable and definitely a perfect stocking stuffer! We hope that we have inspired a few ideas as you prepare for your holiday shopping season but perhaps we have just encouraged you to buy these for yourselves!
Do you have a favorite item that you would love from our selection of Christmas gifts for world travelers?
Disclaimer – We would like to thank Millets, Push Pin Maps and Qottle for providing us with sample products in exchange for consideration of a blog post review. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.
Iceland in just 7 days…we must be CRAZY!!! Actually, we’re not and we can assure you that we accomplished our goal of exploring the Land of Fire and Ice in seven amazing days (and nights!) during our recent EPIC Iceland road trip. I am not going to kid you and say that Iceland should be experienced in only a week because the reality is, you could easily spend much longer exploring this gorgeous country. With so many things to do in Iceland, this was an ambitious road trip but one that will long live in our memories!
However, we are not all fortunate enough to live the nomadic lifestyle where we can take our time exploring a country slowly. Instead, we want to share our experiences and the itinerary that we followed in order to see a plethora of amazing natural attractions, enjoy a number of wildlife encounters and much more during seven hectic but incredibly enjoyable days.
Iceland Road Trip – Epic or Crazy?
Ok, let’s take a step back and take a moment to look at our thought process prior to visiting Iceland. We have been fortunate to visit Iceland previously, so we at least had an idea of what to expect on our return trip. However, the caveat to this is that we visited in completely different seasons.
Our first trip saw us spend quite a bit of time in the capital city of Reykjavik. It’s fair to say that if you are visiting Iceland for the first time, heading to the capital is a great idea. From a variety of great places to stay in Reykjavik to easy access to a number of day trips with awesome tour companies such as Time Tours, this is an option everyone should consider.
But once you have done that….well folks, it’s time to hit the road and experience the very best of “hidden” Iceland and much more!
The reality is, if you are visiting in summer as we did on our recent trip, it is 100% polar opposite to visiting in the depths of winter. Both seasons are gorgeous and we would encourage everyone to visit Iceland during both times of the year.
Back to our goal…we wanted to see EVERYTHING! Realistic right? Maybe not but when we set our mind to achieving our goals, we do everything possible to achieve them. We had a plan in our mind to drive the ring road in our rental car and then spend some time along this route exploring many of the iconic attractions while also stumbling across some spontaneous, hidden gems as we always do.
Iceland may appear to be a relatively small country but when you start looking at the numbers, it is still pretty sizable, particularly if you are looking at an ambitious road trip in just one week. Throw into the mix one solitary ring road that is partially gravel in certain spots and well, it makes this an experience that neither of us has encountered before.
Armed with our camping gear that we had purchased for this trip, we were ready to explore Iceland! Let’s see how this journey went.
Day 1 – Keflavik to Golden Circle
The Journey Begins…
7 Days…1625 miles (2616 km)…countless waterfalls…whale and puffin encounters…and much, much more!! That pretty much summarizes exactly how our Iceland road trip went but I am sure you want a little more detail.
It all started when we landed at Keflavik International Airport following a pleasant flight over from Toronto courtesy of Air Canada and we headed to the car rental desk in search of our vehicle for the next week. We quickly realized we were not the only ones with this idea. The first word of caution, be prepared to wait A LONG TIME when you rent a car from Avis during July!
A little over an hour in line, we eventually picked up our rental car keys and headed outside (not before visiting the very American Dunkin Donuts but with an Icelandic twist!) to find our Hyundai I20. We had two pretty large bags with us, one with all our camping gear and the other with our clothes and other essential items…we were ready for our adventure to begin!
Reykjavik
Our first stop was the capital, Reykjavik. We spent a couple of hours here walking around downtown after parking on the seafront. I mentioned that we had previously visited here but with very little daylight in winter, it was difficult to get many pictures. We wanted to capture some better shots on this visit, so we started at the gorgeous architectural masterpiece, the Harpa. This concert hall is one of Reykjavik’s iconic landmarks.
We headed into the heart of downtown Reykjavik and experienced watching some locals enjoy a water slide that was set up on the Laugavegur. We walked up the main street visiting some of the local souvenir shops before heading to another of Reykjavik’s distinguished landmarks, the Hallgrímskirkja (the church on top of the hill!).
Our first visit to the Bonus supermarket chain (low-cost option for buying groceries) saw us buy enough food for the day along with some snacks for the rest of the week.
Golden Circle
The plan was to spend our first night somewhere along the infamous Golden Circle route. Having experienced the Golden Circle with Time Tours Iceland during our previous visit, we had an idea of where the “must-see” landmarks were but we added a couple of spots during our self-guided tour.
Kerið is a volcanic crater that you can hike around and climb down to the edge of the lake to enjoy the gorgeous landscapes. It’s no surprise to hear that this is one of the most-photographed features around the Golden Circle.
Faxi is an underrated waterfall as it frequently lies in the shadow of the popular Gullfoss waterfall that everyone refers to on the Golden Circle.
The Geysir geothermal area is a popular spot among visitors, particularly with the Strokkur geyser frequently erupting every 7-12 minutes.
Gullfoss is perhaps Iceland’s most famous landmark and understandably so, as this waterfall is a stunning spectacle from a variety of overlooks.
Thingvellir National Park is home to a number of spectacular landscapes and we also stumbled across another incredible waterfall, Oxarafoss.
Day 1 Route
Our first day saw us drive 238 km (148 miles) before we arrived at Thingvellir National Park where we stayed the first night.
Below is a map of the route that we took on our first day in Iceland.
Thingvellir National Park Campground – We had a ‘mixed’ experience here on our first night! After paying the equivalent of $25 for the two of us, we headed to an area by the lake and found a secluded spot that was sheltered and an ideal location to pitch out tent. When you think about ‘idyllic’ camping locations (can you even have those when you are sleeping under canvas?), this really was the epitome of perfection!
Unfortunately, the view from outside was a little different to our experience inside as we underestimated both the temperature and comfort level of the tent…add the fact Iceland in July is 24-hours daylight and well, it was pretty tough to get any more than a couple of hours sleep on day one!
Day 2 – Thingvellir National Park to Hellissandur
Although day 1 was an awesome adventure, much of what we experienced was a rerun of our previous visit to Iceland…except this time, we had the opportunity to take a self-guided tour rather than an organized day trip courtesy of Time Tours Iceland. If you are visiting Iceland and don’t want to drive, we strongly recommend Time Tours Iceland for great daily excursions from Reykjavik.
Day 2 was when our Iceland road trip really started because we ventured into the unknown as we left Thingvellir National Park and Reykjavik and started to head north to the northwest region of the country.
Akranes and Borgarnes
The first part of the drive from Reykjavik saw us venture along the west coast passing through the towns of Akranes and Borgarnes. As we approached the town of Akranes, we had the option of taking the longer route around the Hvalfjörðu fjord or heading through the tunnel to bypass about 50km. We opted for the latter, quicker option though in hindsight the longer route would have given us the opportunity to see Iceland’s tallest waterfall – Glymur.
Borgarnes was a town that we stopped in twice during the second day. We visited both the local Bonus and Netto stores to stock up on food for the day (you will quickly realize that both these stores became our favorites during this Iceland road trip!) before heading inland to explore Hraunfossar.
Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
Located just 45 minutes from the town of Borgarnes, the gorgeous Hraunfossar waterfall known as the “lava falls” is a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the west coast of Iceland.
In addition to Hraunfossar, visitors will have the opportunity to see Barnafoss also which may not be quite as spectacular but when you hear the story behind this waterfall, it’s well worth experiencing.
On our drive back to Borgarnes, we visited the village of Reykholt which is one of Iceland’s iconic historical sites. Reykholt is renowned for being the home of Iceland’s best-known author Snorri Sturluson between 1206 and 1241.
If you have any interest in medieval history, this is well worth exploring as it is one of the last remaining medieval sites preserved throughout Iceland.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Don’t you just love the name “Snaefellsnes?” After hearing Apple guru Craig Federighi reference “Snaefellsnes” at WWDC 2017, I think it’s fair to say that both of us were ready to check out this area of Iceland for ourselves…and it certainly didn’t disappoint!
This region is pretty scarce in terms of population but it makes up for with gorgeous landscapes and natural attractions waiting for us to explore.
Waterfalls, breathtaking coastal landscapes, volcanic activity and much more are all things you can expect to discover on the Snaefellsnes peninsula. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit here and debuted our new DJI Mavic drone in this part of Iceland.
I won’t go into too much detail except for saying we both felt a little concerned when we saw it flying 200 meters above us and then we lost sight of it!
Day 2 Route
We drove 392 km (244 miles) on day 2 before arriving in the town of Hellissandur where we stayed overnight.
Below is a map of the route that we took on our second day in Iceland.
Hellissandur Camping Ground – Although we opted to stay at this campsite, we actually slept overnight in our car following the “uncomfortable” experience the previous night in our tent. Staying at a campsite enabled us to have a shower and other amenities the following morning and given that we didn’t have to pay anything to stay here (we didn’t arrive until shortly after Midnight), it worked out well for us.
Day 3 – Hellissandur to Akureyri
The drive from Hellissandur to Akureyri was eventful in more ways that one. The first part of the drive was relatively pleasant as we stopped at yet another gorgeous waterfall and hiked to the summit and around the side.
However, shortly after leaving the town of Grundarfjörður (this town may not be the most famous on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, but the iconic mountain surely is!), we hit our first potential obstacle…a gravel road!
We hadn’t anticipated or planned on hitting too many gravel roads and certainly not driving 40-50km which is what our GPS indicated. However, we pushed on and despite our Hyundai resolutely fighting through the dirt and gravel, it certainly left it needing a clean once we arrived in Akureyri later that day.
Hvammstangi
The coastal village of Hvammstangi is renowned for being the ideal spot for seal watching. We caught a glimpse of one as we approached the harbor but unfortunately, that was our only experience. The Icelandic Seal Center is worth visiting to learn more about the seals in the area and the Vatsnes peninsula.
Kolugljúfur Canyon
One of the hidden gems that we referenced was the Kolugljúfur Canyon that we found just a short drive from Hvammstangi. The Kolufossar waterfall is aesthetically appealing but perhaps the highlight here is the gorgeous canyon that you can look through from a bridge that crosses the gorge.
This is a relatively quiet spot as it is off the beaten path and we used this as an opportunity to fly our new drone. Unfortunately, having used this for the first time the previous day we had very little battery left so our descent into the canyon was cut short!
Akureyri
The town of Akureyri is the second largest in Iceland behind Reykjavik and it’s fair to say that we quickly fell in love with this place. We enjoyed our stay here so much that we actually stayed two nights here and use this as a base to explore the rest of north Iceland.
Whether we were enjoying delicious fish and chips or sampling the finest Icelandic ice cream, Akureyri was the perfect place to recharge our batteries for the second half of our Iceland road trip adventure.
Day 3 Route
We drove 429 km (267 miles) on day 3 before arriving in Akureyri and I would estimate that 50 or 60km were on gravel roads but easily accessible with even a car (4WD not required for this route!).
Below is a map of the route that we took on our third day in Iceland.
Icelandair Hotel Akureyri – Having spent the first two nights without the comfort of a bed, we opted to stay in a luxury accommodation option. The Icelandair Hotel Akureyri was our first experience with this brand and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The bed was incredibly comfortable though this was perhaps slightly biased given our previous two nights under canvas and in the car.
The hotel is perfectly situated to explore Akureyri’s old town historic district but just as a word of caution, if you choose to walk down to the harbor area, it’s a pretty steep climb back as you pass the Akureyri Church. Definitely a great way to burn off the calories after indulging in fish and chips and Icelandic ice cream!
Akureyri is the ideal place to stay if you want to explore this part of Iceland. Our fourth day in Iceland was probably the most relaxing and rewarding at the same time. We spent the first part of the morning relaxing in Akureyri before heading out to explore some of the nearby landmarks – our first stop, Godafoss!
Godafoss
“The waterfall of the Gods” is how Godafoss is translated and when you visit, you will notice that there is something quite magical about this waterfall. It doesn’t have the power of Dettifoss or the height of Skogafoss but what it does have is a gorgeous composition unlike any other throughout Iceland.
Skeptics will argue that Godafoss is a bit of a disappointment but I would argue the opposite and the reality is, we are all entitled to our opinion. Visit this waterfall for yourself and don’t let anyone cloud your judgment.
Husavik
Husavik is renowned as the “whale capital of the world” so you would be crazy to not have this on your radar. If you visit during the summer months, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy puffin sightings which are another cool experience.
We made a last-minute booking on the Whale and Puffin tour courtesy of North Sailing and are 100% delighted that we made this decision! We were a little hesitant to spend $100+ per person on this without any real guarantees of seeing wildlife but it didn’t take us long to realize we made the right choice.
Day 4 Route
We drove a distance of 193 km (120 miles) on day 4 on our loop from Akureyri to Godafoss to Husavik and back.
Below is a map of the route that we took on our fourth day in Iceland.
Hotel Kjarnalundur – Another night in Akureyri but this time we stayed in a hotel that was slightly further away from downtown but affordable and still conveniently located within 5-10 minutes of everything.
We left Akureyri with a hint of disappointment but knowing that we would return again in the future. An action-packed day ahead of us with the likes of Lake Myvatn, Dettifoss, and Selfoss on our schedule, we soon realized that there was plenty to look forward to.
Dettifoss
Despite experiencing the worst weather of the week, we had an awesome experience exploring Europe’s most powerful waterfall – Dettifoss. A number of hiking trails are available for visitors to enjoy a variety of overlooks and get pretty close to the edge of this amazing natural attraction. You can certainly feel the power of Dettifoss and be prepared to get pretty wet as the spray from this waterfall is pretty intense.
A short hike from this waterfall leads you to another, Selfoss, which is about 1km upstream and much smaller. However, this should take nothing away from the beauty this waterfall possesses.
Day 5 Route
Day 5 saw us venture to the East region of Iceland and we drove 314 km (195 miles) until we reached Egilsstadir where we spent the night.
Below is a map of the route that we followed on the fifth day in Iceland.
Hotel Hallormsstadur – Located on Lake Lagarfljot, 25 km south of Egilsstadir, this was perhaps our best find in terms of accommodation during our Iceland road trip. We had our very own private cabin/cottage overlooking the lake at a very affordable rate ($120 USD).
The location was a little further out of Egilsstadir than we anticipated when we made the reservation but given this was just one night, it worked out perfectly.
Our penultimate day in Iceland saw us drive to the south coast and continue until we reached the town of Vik, just so that we could enjoy a relaxing final day in Reykjavik. The southeast corner of Iceland is yet another incredible landscape with the undoubted highlight being our experience at Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach.
Jokulsarlon
The incredible sight of icebergs floating around in a glacial lagoon is just as spectacular as it sounds. In fact, I would argue that pictures and videos can never give Jokulsarlon the justice it deserves. It’s one of those natural landmarks that you have to see for yourselves in order to appreciate the true beauty surrounding this location.
As we watched the icebergs floating out of the lagoon and down the river to the ocean, we headed to the wonderfully acclaimed “Diamond Beach” to see some of the chunks of ice on the beach. It’s incredible to see especially in July because it’s not something you expect and many of these icebergs are like glass sculptures.
Fjallsarlon
Just a short distance from Jokulsarlon is yet another glacial lagoon but in terms of popularity, Fjallsarlon is much less visited. However, we had an awesome experience here exploring the lagoon and even had the opportunity to see a shift in the glacier (the sound was intense!).
This area of Iceland was substantially colder than anywhere else that we experienced during the week, so be prepared to endure all four seasons at any time of the year when visiting the Land of Fire and Ice!
Day 6 Route
We drove a distance of 461 km (286 miles) on day 6 as we started our journey back to Reykjavik.
Below is a map of the route that we followed on our penultimate day in Iceland.
Vik Camping – Another night sleeping in the car but again, this was primarily because it was pretty late when we arrived and we had made the decision to stay in another hotel the following night before heading home.
Day 7 – Vik to Reykjavik
An early morning start on our final day in Iceland saw us explore Vik by heading to the beach and checking out the basalt columns. We also visited Reynisfjara and the gorgeous basalt columns there.
Skogafoss
One of Iceland’s iconic waterfalls is Skogafoss and after visiting for the second time, we realized why this is at the very top of our favorite natural landmarks not only in Iceland but throughout the world. A hike to the summit of this waterfall (475+ steps) is rewarded with breathtaking scenery, not to mention the sight of a rainbow by Skogafoss if you are lucky.
Seljalandsfoss
Our final stop before heading back to Iceland was Seljalandsfoss. It was fitting that a waterfall was the final attraction we experienced because as we have mentioned before, Iceland could likely be referenced as the Land of Waterfalls and I don’t think anyone could argue against this.
Hiking around the back of Seljalandsfoss was a unique experience and one that we cherished, despite both getting pretty soaked from the spray and clambering the slippery rocks!
Day 7 Route
We drove a distance of 195 km (121 miles) on our final day as we arrived in Reykjavik to stay overnight before heading back to the airport the following morning.
Below is a map of the route that we followed on our final day.
CAZE Reykjavik Central Luxury Apartments – I think we saved our best accommodation until last! If you are planning on spending several nights in Reykjavik, this is definitely a great option because you can enjoy self-catered accommodation at an affordable rate. A great location on the Laugavegur main street and within walking distance of pretty much everything you need in Reykjavik.
Are you exhausted following this amazing Iceland road trip adventure? It was INCREDIBLE! Yes, it was quite a bit of driving in a relatively short amount of time but the beauty of visiting Iceland in July is that you have unlimited amounts of daylight, so you have to take advantage of it.
We found it pretty difficult to sleep for more than a few hours every evening, though of course, it was nice having the opportunity to stay in affordable hotels on several occasions. Our initial plan of camping for a week didn’t go quite as we intended but we were flexible enough to change our itinerary and we both agree that it worked out better.
Sleeping in a car may not be the most appealing way to spend a night but it’s a great way to save money, plus we were able to stay warm!
Iceland is an unbelievable country in both summer and winter. It’s hard to say which we prefer because we love it all year round. We look forward to our next trip to Iceland and one thing is for sure, we will likely have a whole new experience again!
What are your experiences in Iceland?
DISCLAIMER – This post contains affiliate links. Should you choose to make a purchase via one of our links, we may receive a small commission. This income helps A Brit & A Southerner continue to explore and share inspiring stories.
When it comes to renting a car anywhere around the world, we are literally spoiled for choice! It can be a tough decision trying to figure out which company to opt for, especially when the competition is so fierce. This is certainly no different if you are heading to the Emerald Isle with hopes of experiencing an epic Ireland road trip. Hopefully, after reading this post, you will have a better idea as to why we think Europcar is the best car rental in Ireland.
Ireland is a haven of natural beauty waiting to be explored. Anyone visiting this beautiful nation would be crazy to not want to head out and hit the open country roads in search of this beauty that can be found around every corner. If you need any more convincing that exploring Ireland by car is the best way to get around, check out this post that highlights some useful tips on car rental in the Emerald Isle.
The beauty of Ireland, despite its relatively small size, is that the rich history, culture, and heritage is displayed throughout the fine architecture and natural landmarks that visitors can experience if they head outside of Dublin. Our recommendation is always to spend at least 48 hours in Dublin before heading out and seeing what we would call the “real” Ireland!
Whether you are looking for the best way to see the Cliffs of Moher or simply want to explore Ireland “off the beaten path”, renting a car is the best way to achieve this.
Visiting many of these historic structures can be a challenge, particularly if you are unfamiliar with driving in Ireland! We want to alleviate many of these fears and inspire you to explore Ireland and realize that by renting from Europcar, you will have an amazing experience creating lifelong memories that you will cherish for the rest of your lives!
Why Europcar Ireland?
Ok, let’s start with a simple question that I am sure you are all dying to know the answer to – why are we so convinced that Europcar is the best rental car company in Ireland? Let’s take a look at some of the aspects that helped sway our opinion!
Voted Europe’s Leading Car Rental Company by World Travel Awards
A mission statement that includes five core values that illuminate throughout the brand with every aspect of the rental car experience – Commitment, Safety, Trust, Agility, and Diversity.
Affordability – Offered low-cost options from Dublin Airport.
As I mentioned, travelers to Ireland will have plenty of choices when it comes to rental car companies. It can also be a daunting challenge for those that are visiting Europe for the first time and considering driving “on the other side of the road”.
Throw in the fact the majority of vehicles are manual transmission and Ireland’s roads are particularly challenging and well, it’s no surprise that many folks opt for “guided tours” or alternative forms of transportation.
Europcar will ensure that any of your fears are allayed and you will have nothing but an incredible road trip experience around Ireland. Another of the HUGE challenges when considering renting a car in Ireland is the dreaded topic of rental car insurance!
Rental Car Insurance in Ireland
Everyone that rents a car in Ireland is required to have a minimum of Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) insurance. It’s a legal requirement and the reality is, it’s something that will give you peace of mind when you are venturing along those narrow country roads on the Wild Atlantic Way! Remember, Irish roads are rarely straight!
What exactly is CDW insurance? This is basically the “bare minimum” coverage that allows you to drive around Ireland with the knowledge that if something catastrophic happens, you will not be liable for “all” the damage costs. The key word here is ALL! CDW coverage in Ireland tends to have a pretty high deductible (or excess) associated with it, so be aware that this insurance option may not be appropriate for everyone.
Rental car companies in Ireland will likely have a 1500-2000 Euros deductible for those opting for only CDW coverage. Don’t worry, there is another option available. The Super Damage Waiver Cover (SDW) costs 19.50 to 27.00 Euros per day depending on vehicle size but will ensure your deductible is reduced to ZERO!
For American and Canadian visitors to Ireland, you may have an alternative option available to you! If you are the holder of a valid credit card (Mastercard or Visa) that has auto rental insurance, you may be able to “waive” the CDW coverage. It is the cardholder’s responsibility to ensure that they are adequately covered for the entire duration of the rental period.
Best Car Rental in Ireland
Whether you opt for our recommendation of Europcar or an alternative car rental company, you can be sure that an adventure exploring Ireland awaits! If you are flying into Dublin Airport, the experience of renting a car with Europcar couldn’t be any simpler.
Customer Service Experience
After passing through immigration and collecting our bags, we took the short walk from the airport terminal to the car rental desk and within a few minutes, we were heading downstairs to find our rental car for the week – a Hyundai i40.
It was the epitome of excellent customer service and certainly a great way to welcome us to the Emerald Isle! The agent at the desk was incredibly friendly and made an effort to ensure our experience was nothing but excellent.
License Requirements
When you rent a car in a different country, it’s plausible that you will wonder what type of documentation you will need. Will your driver’s license work? Will you need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP)?
Having an IDP is certainly not required when visiting Ireland if you have an American or EU license but you may find this beneficial if you are considering driving in other countries around the world.
Additional Drivers
Additional drivers can be added to your rental when you collect your vehicle at the airport terminal. The above license requirements still apply to all drivers. This may be a good option for less than 10 Euros per day, especially if you are planning on driving long distances around Ireland.
Fuel Options
Europcar offers two different fuel options – prepaid and returning the vehicle full! We ALWAYS opt for filling up the vehicle before we return because in our opinion, you never quite know how much you will use during your road trip.
The prepaid option is potentially more convenient given that you don’t have to worry about finding a petrol station close to the airport but generally speaking, there are always plenty within a few miles of the terminal.
Northern Ireland
Anyone road tripping around Ireland will likely want to experience Giant’s Causeway and Belfast et al. in Northern Ireland. If you are considering this, be sure to inform the agent when collecting the vehicle as there is a nominal fee of 34 Euros to venture into Northern Ireland!
After visiting the amazing sights, I think it’s fair to say you will agree it’s worth the additional fee.
Our Europcar Ireland Adventure
Driving around Ireland was an unforgettable experience. From the moment we headed out of Dublin toward the Wicklow Mountains, we realized this trip was going to be an amazing adventure. The beauty of road tripping around Ireland is that you can be spontaneous and let’s be honest, that is the best way to travel the world. Have a few ideas for places you want to visit but be flexible because Ireland is a country that encourages spontaneity.
Places such as Doolin, Ennis, Adare and even the larger town of Athlone were not really on our radar before we ventured out on our Ireland adventure. But the beauty of road tripping is that you can take any route you want and the old phrase “The world is your oyster” is certainly true when it comes to exploring Ireland.
Whether you are intrigued by the beauty of County Kerry and ready to experience an amazing tour of Killarney National Park or perhaps the Ring of Kerry, you can be sure that you won’t be short of road trips that you will want to take. The problem will likely be trying to accomplish everything during the time you are in Ireland…it may be small but there is A LOT to see!
The Wild Atlantic Way is undoubtedly one of the most frequently visited scenic routes across Ireland and a tour of the Cliffs of Moher is certainly something you won’t want to miss out on!
Summary
If you are looking for the best car hire company in Ireland, we would argue that you cannot go wrong with Europcar! There is a reason they have been voted as Europe’s best car rental company over the last several years and based on our experience, we have nothing but great things to say about them, particularly their customer service.
Visitors to Ireland should strongly consider taking out the Super Damage Waiver Cover, regardless of which rental company is chosen. With such a large deductible even with the basic coverage, it’s a no-brainer that you will want that peace of mind while navigating around foreign (and extremely narrow in many cases!) roads.
Our road trip around Ireland was certainly one of our favorites to date and we look forward to returning in the near future to explore more of the Emerald Isle. Depending on how much time you spend in Ireland will determine exactly how much you can see but regardless, you will have a great time!
Ireland is a beautiful country waiting for you to discover. Be sure to take advantage of it by experiencing it the best possible way on an amazing road trip with Europcar Ireland!
Disclaimer – We would like to thank Europcar Ireland for partnering with us and providing us with a rental car for the week in exchange for consideration of a blog post review. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.
When you think about iconic national parks around the world, perhaps the likes of Yosemite, Denali, the Grand Canyon or the Mighty 5 parks in Utah would spring to mind. However, following our recent Ireland road trip, we would argue that Killarney National Park should also be on your radar. It may not have the reputation as some of these more infamous counterparts across the globe but we are convinced it is equally breathtaking in its own right. A Killarney National Park tour is an experience you won’t forget and epitomizes the natural beauty throughout a nation we love to call the Emerald Isle!
A Spectacular National Park
Take a moment to consider the components of a spectacular national park. I’m sure we all have unique perspectives and opinions on this but I think there is probably some common ground.
Renowned by many as the “Jewel in Kerry’s crown” Killarney National Park is a truly spectacular natural beauty spot. (Ring of Kerry)
Firstly, natural beauty! It goes without saying any area of the world that has been classified with national park status “should” have some form of natural beauty. Again, we all have very different thoughts on what constitutes beauty but I have always been a firm believer in the phrase “an untouched wilderness” which I think should appropriately describe all national parks.
Killarney National Park undoubtedly fits this category. As you embark on a journey through this park, regardless of your form of transportation, you cannot help but fall in love with the “natural beauty” this park possesses. Ireland is renowned for being “green” in more ways that one and when you combine this with the amazing natural beauty throughout the national park, it’s certainly a picture-perfect scene on many levels!
Secondly, an area of conservation! Anyone visiting a national park will not only have the opportunity to see breathtaking natural formations but also “hopefully” encounter wildlife in their natural habitat. Killarney National Park is home to a herd of native red deer along with a myriad of other species that makes this an amazing spot for wildlife experts to enjoy.
Killarney National Park Tour
Let’s take a look at some of the best spots worth experiencing during a Killarney National Park tour! The uniqueness of this national park means that not only will you encounter the aforementioned attractions but also a plethora of history and ancient architecture that you normally wouldn’t associate with a national park.
Visitors to Killarney National Park could easily spend several days hiking around and exploring this haven of natural beauty. 26,000 acres or 40 square miles is definitely a large enough area to keep you occupied for many days but if you only have a short time to explore, don’t worry, hopefully, this handy guide will give you a few of the very best attractions not to be missed.
We are going to focus on attractions that are just a short distance from the town of Killarney. It’s feasible that you could rent a bicycle and then head into the park to explore all of these attractions. Alternatively, taking a rental car through the narrow, winding roads is a roller-coaster experience not to be missed. If you are confident driving on the left side of the road, this will be a thoroughly enjoyable experience but for those that hold any fears, perhaps it’s not for you!
From just a few hours to several days, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Killarney National Park. Historians, architects, naturists and more will have an awesome time visiting this part of Ireland and we are already excited about returning to this spot to explore further.
Ross Castle
What better way to start your journey into Killarney National Park than by visiting one of the most historic locations in the region – Ross Castle. Just a few minutes from Killarney town center, the remains of Ross Castle stand proudly overlooking Lough Leane and Innisfallen Island in the distance.
Dating back to the 15th-century, Ross Castle is a distinctive tower house construction and visitors can enjoy daily guided tours of this structure. However, for those of you that prefer to enjoy a self-guided experience, simply take a stroll around the banks of Lough Leane and admire the stunning scenery.
As you can see, we visited Ross Castle just before sunset and captured a gorgeous shot with the castle, lake and breathtaking natural surroundings in the background. Ready for a quick history lesson on Ross Castle? It is renowned for being one of the last strongholds to fall to Cromwell’s forces in the 1650’s.
A fun fact for the day but regardless of your desire to learn about ancient Irish history, it’s hard to ignore the beauty of this attraction.
Muckross House
Let’s move forward to a little more recent times or at least the 19th-century. Possibly one of the most iconic attractions throughout all of Killarney National Park is Muckross House. With a breathtaking sight overlooking Muckross Lake, this house was designed by Scottish architect William Burns for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife Mary Balfour.
Muckross House is a typical Tudor style design and epitomizes the luxurious lifestyle that Herbert and Balfour lived during the mid 19th-century. The house was sold and passed along to various owners over the next century until it was donated in 1932 and renovated/preserved into the property we see today.
If you are planning a visit to Killarney, be sure to visit Muckross House and step inside to admire the luxurious property that is the focal point of the national park.
Torc Waterfall
After visiting Ross Castle and Muckross House, you could be forgiven for wanting to head away from architecture and start exploring some of the national parks natural beauty. Don’t worry, you won’t have to wait long! Just a few miles from both of these architectural masterpieces is the gorgeous Torc Waterfall.
The beauty of Torc Waterfall isn’t necessarily related to the size, though at 70-80 feet in height it’s certainly more than a trickle. The real beauty is the location and the surroundings in the heart of a wooded area in Killarney National Park.
Visitors wishing to experience Torc Waterfall have a couple of options. The easiest and shortest option is to park at the designated car park along the Ring of Kerry (option A on the map) and take the short 5-minute walk through the woods to the waterfall.
However, for those of you that are a little more adventurous and want to hike a little further, there is an alternative route that you can take (option B on the map) and you can follow the hiking trail down to Torc Waterfall. Be prepared for a pretty strenuous climb back to your car but the experience through the scenic woodland is likely worth the effort!
The Lakes of Killarney
Killarney National Park is home to three gorgeous lakes known unsurprisingly as the “Lakes of Killarney.” Comprising of Lough Leane, Muckross Lake, and Upper Lake, these lakes are areas of spectacular scenery and attract visitors from all corners of the globe every year. Lake tours are available but for those of you want a more secluded experience, enjoy the various hiking trails that allow you to explore all around each of the lakes.
Lough Leane is the largest and northernmost of the three lakes and is located closest to Killarney. It is also the largest fresh body of water in this region of Ireland.
Leane is not only a perfect setting to enjoy both sunrise and sunset with the Kerry Mountains in the background, it is also home to a number of small forested islands scattered throughout the 4,700 acres of water. As we mentioned earlier, on the eastern shore of Leane is the iconic Ross Castle.
Muckross Lake is located south of Lough Leane and although it is substantially smaller, it is actually Ireland’s deepest lake measuring almost 250 feet in depth in certain parts. This is possibly the most famous of all three lakes given its name but also because it possesses over 6 miles of paved hiking trails that surround this lake.
Upper Lake is the smallest of the three lakes and southernmost but for those of you that venture far enough into Killarney National Park to the “Ladies View”, this is the lake that will in the foreground of your pictures.
All three lakes offer distinctive features but together, they are a breathtaking formation that alone should justify a visit to Killarney National Park.
Ladies View
The Ladies View is a scenic overlook along the Ring of Kerry that provides breathtaking panoramic scenes of the Lakes of Killarney and beyond. If you are the inquisitive type, you will be wondering where the name “Ladies View” originated.
The name apparently stems from the admiration of the amazing views by Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting during their visit to Killarney National Park in 1861. You learn something every day!
A gift shop and cafe are available at this point for visitors who want to admire this scenery from the confines of the visitor center but we would argue the real beauty here is when you step away from the car park and onto the rocks that overlook the valley beneath you.
When you visit the Ladies View, it’s one of those moments you will never forget. We were spoiled for breathtaking scenes throughout our road trip around Ireland but there were very few that were as spectacular as this scene.
Take a quick hike to find your perfect spot and spend a few minutes (or longer) appreciating this view because it’s one that you will never tire of looking at. If you are fortunate enough to visit on a day when the sun is out, the view of the glistening lakes is a sight to behold surrounded by a myriad of other geological features that help create such a magical landscape.
Summary
Ireland is a landscape of natural beauty. Everywhere you look, there is something spectacular waiting for you to explore. Killarney National Park certainly falls into this category and if you are planning a visit to the Emerald Isle in the near future, this is definitely a spot you should add to your itinerary.
A self-guided tour of Killarney National Park will give you the opportunity to experience everything from history to amazing natural features. It’s difficult to pinpoint one exact spot that is our favorite but arguably the Ladies View encompasses everything Killarney National Park has to offer.
Ireland is a nation that can be proud of the spectacular natural landscapes that are scattered throughout the Emerald Isle. If rugged, untouched nature is what you are looking for, a breathtaking Cliffs of Moher tour along the Wild Atlantic Way epitomizes a beauty unlike anywhere else in the world. Our visit saw us drive from Limerick to the Cliffs of Moher but the beauty of Ireland is that you could be based in Galway, Athlone or even Dublin and still experience this natural landmark on a day trip.
Renowned as being one of the most popular landmarks throughout Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are located at the southwestern edge of the Burren region in County Clare. When I referenced that this beauty is unlike anywhere else, many would argue that Iceland is perhaps equally beautiful but there is something quite majestic about this Irish landscape that we consider to be second to none.
Cliffs of Moher Tour
Whether you are planning a visit to the Cliffs of Moher with the intention of staying overnight in a nearby village or perhaps simply taking a day trip hopefully, we can give you a few ideas and inspiration to add to your itinerary. As you will see, we actually visited the Cliffs of Moher twice primarily because of inclement weather conditions on the first day.
Anyone that has visited Ireland will know that the weather is a little unpredictable so having that flexibility to change your schedule and organize a return visit is definitely something you should consider.
Let’s take a look at the experience we had driving from Limerick to the Cliffs of Moher and some of the stops along this route you may want to consider exploring.
Can you think of any better way to start your adventure than by visiting one of Ireland’s spectacular castles? Well, it’s reported that there are around 30,000 castles or castle ruins to be found on the Emerald Isle and given the relatively small size of the country, it’s no surprise that there are pretty common sightings whenever you take a road trip!
Bunratty Castle…the name alone is cool enough to justify a visit right? But there is way more to this historic castle than just the name! Dating back to around 977 when the first recorded settlement was on the grounds of Bunratty Castle, it’s rumored that a Viking trading camp located here. Of course, without any confirmed ruins of these settlements, it’s hard to be 100% sure but I’m ok with going along with this story.
Around the year 1250, the first Norman fortress ordered by King Henry III of England was constructed here. In the late 13th-century, Bunratty had around 1,000 inhabitants and the castle was attacked on numerous occasions by the O’Brien clan before finally succumbing.
If we fast-forward a couple of hundred years, we find today’s structure which was completed by the MacNamara family circa 1425. The history of Bunratty Castle is both intriguing and enlightening and today, visitors can enjoy tours of the castle along with Bunratty Folk Park which is equally popular among visitors.
For those of you that want a full Irish castle experience, why not enjoy the medieval banquet with the Earl of Thomond that is offered daily. If you are looking for a slightly cheaper yet still authentic option, consider hopping over to the very colorful “Original Durty Nelly’s.” Regardless of which dining option you choose, you can be sure that traditional Irish cuisine will await you!
Admission
Bunratty Castle is open daily,April to December from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Last admission into the castle is 4:00 PM). At the time of publication, the admission prices into the castle are as follows:
Adults – 11.55 Euros Children (Aged 6-16) – 8.95 Euros Children (5 and Under) – FREE Seniors – 10.45 Euros
Our drive towards the Cliffs of Moher continued as we approached the town of Ennis. We couldn’t help but notice a ruined monastery that we just had to explore. Clare Abbey is a ruined Augustinian monastery dating back to the late 12th-century. It remained in use until the 17th-century but today, we are left with a set of ruins featuring a distinctive church and cloister.
In stark contrast to Bunratty Castle which is a popular tourist spot, we visited Clare Abbey with one else to be seen.
The belfry tower stands proudly in the heart of these ruins and as we carefully explored this area, it was hard not to contemplate what life must have been like while this monastery was active.
One of the highlight attractions in Ennis, we look forward to returning to this part of Ireland to explore more given that we heard this is a great town with plenty of character. If Clare Abbey is a reflection, this is certainly a spot you will want to add to your next Ireland road trip itinerary.
Moher Cottage
After spending the morning exploring some of Ireland’s finest examples of ancient architecture, continue the journey to the Cliffs of Moher and grab a cup of Joe at the gorgeous Moher Cottage.
Not only is this a quaint and quirky building perched at the summit of the drive to the Cliffs of Moher, it is also renowned for having the best coffee in Ireland!
A pretty strong claim but one we had to experience for ourselves.
We can 100% attest that this place is amazing and although we cannot compare the coffee with everywhere else in Ireland, we can clearly see why this was recently voted for the award of the best coffee in the Emerald Isle!
Although the coffee is amazing and the views from inside Moher Cottage are breathtaking, the best aspect has to be interacting with the owner, Caitriona.
When you think about awesome customer service and a friendly welcome, this is exactly what you get when you arrive at Moher Cottage. You truly feel like part of the family and we thoroughly enjoyed our time visiting this part of the Wild Atlantic Way!
Cliffs of Moher
Ireland is home to a number of iconic natural landmarks and the Cliffs of Moher certainly fall into this category. As I mentioned, we arrived at the Cliffs late afternoon and honestly it was an “epic” failure.
Rather than the Cliffs of Moher, we experienced the Cliffs of Fog! We literally could see pretty much nothing except for a few minutes when the clouds cleared slightly and we were at least able to catch a glimpse of O’Brien’s Tower at the most southerly point.
After grabbing a bite to eat in the visitor center cafe, we spoke to guest services and they told us that if we were able to come back the next day, our parking pass would still be valid and all we had to do was tell the attendants that we visited the previous day in the inclement weather conditions.
We desperately wanted to see the Cliffs of Moher in their full glory, so we changed our plans and stayed overnight in Limerick before heading back the next morning.
There are several different viewing platforms at the Cliffs of Moher in addition to the interpretive center, cafe and gift shop that are part of the visitor center. Perhaps the highlight attraction is taking a stroll along the cliffs but if you choose to head along the “unofficial” cliff edge trail (a popular attraction for visitors), PLEASE BE CAREFUL!!
Given that we visited after some persistent rainfall and with a threat of further foggy conditions, Heather headed towards O’Brien’s Tower and I wandered in the opposite direction. Our goal was to capture pictures of both angles before the weather prevented us from taking any more.
The trail I followed quickly became pretty rough and after clambering over a fence, I realized along with the many other visitors that we were away from the “official” trail and literally on the edge of the cliff!
The panoramic views looking back across the Cliffs of Moher are breathtaking but you have to weigh the pros and cons of standing so close to the edge.
There is quite a bit of space so don’t think this is like an image from Cliffhanger where Stallone is dangling off the edge of a cliff but it’s still pretty daunting when you peer over the edge.
The power of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the Cliffs of Moher is not only a sight you won’t want to miss, it creates an eerily beautiful sound as you realize how nature impacts the landscape in front of us.
Doolin
You can easily spend all day at the Cliffs of Moher but if you are planning on experiencing as much of the area as we did, there are a few other spots you should consider visiting that are just a short drive from this landmark.
For those of you considering hopping over to the Aran Islands, the village of Doolin will be a familiar town.
See the beauty. Hear the music. Meet the people.
Renowned as the “traditional Irish music capital,” Doolin is a relatively small village but packed with plenty of character.
The views overlooking the Aran Islands are breathtaking but it’s the interaction with locals as you take a leisurely stroll around the town that really makes this an appealing destination.
Doolin: Experience the incredible
As you can see from the above quotes, Doolin is all about the “incredible people” enjoying plenty of craic with locals and visitors alike!
The folks in Doolin treat everyone like family, so you can be sure to feel right at home when you visit this beautiful Irish village.
Ferry to Aran Islands
Doolin is the gateway to the Aran Islands! If you have enough time, we strongly recommend spending at least a day exploring these gorgeous islands. Be sure to check out Doolin Ferriesif you are planning an adventure to the Aran Islands.
Price – 25 Euros to Inis Mór
Corkscrew Hill
By the time you leave Doolin, the likelihood is that you will have experienced a long, tiring day and you will be ready to head back to your base. However, if you are heading to Galway or back to Limerick, we have a couple more spots on your journey that you will want to experience.
Corkscrew Hill is a breathtaking winding road between Ballyvaughan and Lisdoonvarna and offers spectacular panoramic views across the Burren region of Ireland. Before you drive this winding road, there is a perfect spot to pull over on the side of the road and admire the scenery and what lies await.
It’s hardly a rollercoaster ride but it’s pretty stereotypical of Irish roads in general – the reality is, you don’t see many straight roads on the Emerald Isle!
Dunguaire Castle
We started our day trip by visiting a castle so it’s only appropriate that our final stop should be another gorgeous castle. Dunguaire Castle is a tower house on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay and was built in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan.
In the early 17th-century, the castle was passed over to the Martyn’s of Galway. This family owned the castle until the 20th-century before it was purchased and restored in 1924. Today, the restored castle gives visitors the opportunity to reflect on the lifestyle of the people who lived from 1520 to modern times in this part of Ireland.
Irish culture has evolved over recent centuries but much of the rich heritage has been preserved and this is apparent throughout Dunguaire Castle.
Similar to Bunratty Castle, visitors today can enjoy a medieval banquet inside the castle with locally sourced Irish food between April and October.
Admission
Dunguaire Castle is open daily,April to mid-October from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Last admission into the castle is 4:30 PM). At the time of publication, the admission prices into the castle are as follows:
Adults – 6.60 Euros Children (Aged 6-16) – 3.80 Euros Children (5 and Under) – FREE Seniors – 3.85 Euros
Another action-packed day in Ireland is what you can expect if you consider taking a Cliffs of Moher tour. There are countless examples of amazing history, rich culture, and breathtaking natural scenery seemingly around every corner in Ireland so regardless of which route you take, you can be sure there will be something waiting for you to explore.
The Cliffs of Moher are undoubtedly a popular tourist landmark and we would agree that they don’t disappoint. However, we would also argue that the variety of experiences along the route are what makes this an incredible day trip to remember. We cannot wait to have the opportunity to head back to Ireland and learn more about this historic nation!
Have you ever dreamed of spending at least one night in a luxury hotel but then realized that the cost is way out of your budget? Don’t worry, we have found the perfect opportunity for EVERYONE to experience the ultimate 5-star luxury getaway thanks to Hotwire’s amazing “Million Dollar Sale” in Las Vegas. Just take a moment to let this sink in…5 star hotels in Las Vegas for only $50 per night!!
That’s right, think about all those amazing hotels on the Vegas Strip and now contemplate spending a few nights there as you prepare for the upcoming holiday season! All those dreams are about to become a reality folks. Let’s take a look at what this deal is all about…
Visit Las Vegas in December 2017
When you first read this title, you could be forgiven for thinking that this was one of those stereotypical “click-bait” style posts just to grab your attention! Well, part of that last statement is true…it’s meant to capture your attention but it’s anything but click-bait. It’s the truth and we hope you will take advantage of it.
We have been fortunate to visit Las Vegas, Nevada on several occasions and we LOVED every minute of it. Vegas is home to the glitz and glamor of the Strip but also a number of other reasons that should inspire you to visit. Hotwire’s incredible Million Dollar Sale that is good for travel between December 8 and December 28, 2017 will have you scrambling to book flights or alternative methods of transportation to visit Vegas.
5 Star Hotels in Las Vegas for $50?
Could you imagine anything better than relaxing in a spectacular 5 star hotel on the Las Vegas Strip in the middle of the holiday season? We’re sold! Christmas is undoubtedly our favorite time of the year and combining this with a Vegas getaway is definitely an appealing thought.
Here are some numbers that will put this deal into perspective! The average retail rate for five-star hotels in Las Vegas in December is a whopping $432 per night (does that answer the opening question I posed on this post as to why many of us never experience five-star luxury?).
Now imagine spending only $50..that’s right, $50 for the same hotel and experience! This isn’t a watered down experience where you get just the bare essentials, you will enjoy everything you would if you paid that full price. Plus the best part is you save more than $350 per night per room.
Why Hotwire?
Still think this deal is too good to be true! Hopefully we can alleviate some of these legitimate fears by sharing a little information on Hotwire. Many of you may already be familiar with this “one-stop” booking service that has been around for the last two decades since jumping on the travel scene in 2000.
Hotwire has partnered alongside thousands of airlines, hotels and car rental companies to not only help sell their remaining inventory but also offer great deals for travelers around the world. The concept of “hot” rates is Hotwire’s philosophy as the otherwise unused inventory can be offered to consumers at incredible rates while also offering the hotels/airlines etc an opportunity to sell their remaining spaces.
Hotwire partners with leading, premium name brands across the globe that normally may not offer discount pricing and ensures that this is one of the only places that travelers can find such amazing deals…just like these $50 five-star hotels in Las Vegas in December!
Travelers Love Luxury
When was the last time you resisted the temptation of a “luxury” item when it was offered to you at an incredibly low rate? Let’s be honest, it’s rare! What’s even rarer is actually finding opportunities to stumble across these luxury experiences at a rate that a regular traveler can afford.
Prior to releasing this amazing deal, CITE Research conducted the “Luxury & Holiday Travel Survey” within the United States on behalf of Hotwire. The survey was focused on identifying travel habits within a dataset of 1,000 adults, 18 and older. Some of the key findings included the following:
Younger Generations Love Luxury – I’m not going to lie, I LOVE luxury!! It’s just not always realistic to book first-class airfares or stay in five-star luxury hotels. An interesting fact from this part of the survey though is that millennials, 34 and younger are nearly three times as likely to have stayed in a five-star hotel during the last five years than their 55 and older counterparts.
Sticker Shock Remains an Obstacle – The high-cost of a five-star hotel is understandably the number one reason why folks don’t stay in high-end luxury accommodation options! If we don’t think we can afford it, why even consider them?
Holiday Away from Holiday Season – It may sound strange but 58 percent of the survey takers indicated that they needed a break away from the hustle and bustle of holiday season! A getaway to Las Vegas for $50 per night sounds like the perfect tonic right?
These were just a couple of the findings but it’s certainly an eye-opener and definitely inspiration for Hotwire to offer their “Million Dollar Sale” in Las Vegas!
Million Dollar Sale – Which Hotel?
Who doesn’t love a little spontaneity when it comes to travel? Ok, so maybe when it comes to hotel bookings, you are not quite as flexible or willing to throw all your eggs into one basket. However, if you were told that for $50 you would be guaranteed a five-star hotel, I’m sure that’s a pretty good selling point.
After going through the booking process and selecting the five-star luxury hotel in Las Vegas for $50, you will receive a booking confirmation along with the name of the hotel!
How to Book with Hotwire?
So…WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR???? If you are new to Hotwire, don’t worry because here is a brief overview of the steps you should take.
2. Pick one of the “Hot Rate” 5-Star Hotel Deals on the Las Vegas Strip for $50
3. Go through the booking process and receive the name of the hotel with your booking confirmation.
Summary
Hotwire has put together an incredible deal with their Million Dollar Sale! It’s expected that these hotels will sell out quickly so don’t wait and think about it, just book. For $50, it’s worth trying to figure out the logistics of getting to Las Vegas later.
Five-Star Hotel…Las Vegas, Nevada…$50 PER NIGHT!!
We are raring to head back to Las Vegas and explore not only the Strip but also some of the other attractions in the vicinity such as Red Rock Canyon. These next few weeks over the holiday season are the perfect time to visit and take advantage of this amazing deal.
Remember, this deal is only valid for travel between December 8 and December 28, 2017. Again, don’t wait to act on this deal because this will sell out quickly!!
Disclaimer – This post is sponsored by Hotwire, Inc.
Ireland is renowned for breathtaking natural beauty, a thriving capital city and of course, locals enjoying plenty of “craic” over a pint of Guinness! In southwest Ireland, the town of Killarney is undoubtedly a perfect example that epitomizes the Irish culture in more ways that one. During our 48 hours in Killarney (we actually spent a little longer but much of our time was spent at the TBEX Europe conference!) exploring the town and further afield, we discovered why this town is such a thriving destination that should be on everyone’s radar.
As you venture away from Dublin, the real beauty of Ireland can be found and as we started out on our epic Ireland road trip, we had every intention of discovering what life in Ireland is really like. As we share our experiences in Killarney and County Kerry in general, we hope that you will be inspired to add this region to your next Ireland adventure.
The inherent beauty throughout this area is such that you cannot help but fall in love with it. Whether you are an avid landscape photographer that will immediately fall in love with the Wild Atlantic Way and Ring of Kerry or perhaps a Lord of the Rings fanatic, this part of Ireland offers plenty for every type of traveler. Let’s take a look at how you can maximize your time while spending a few days in Killarney.
Where to Stay in Killarney?
Killarney is home to a plethora of accommodation options. From luxury hotels to budget hostels, you can be sure to find something that will fit your needs. We initially planned to stay at the Gleneagle Hotel which is conveniently located next to the INEC Conference Centre but just before heading to Ireland, we stumbled across an opportunity that we couldn’t resist.
The Belmont is a 3,100 sq/ft period-style home that is available for rent courtesy of Luxquisite Property Lettings. Five bedrooms, four bathrooms and can easily accommodate up to eleven guests! The luxury, modern design of the interior offers a distinctive blend to the period-style architecture on the outside.
But that’s not all…in fact, that’s not even the start of this AMAZING house! If you love technology, you are going to LOVE this house. It’s the epitome of an ultra “smart” home with everything synced together to create an experience you will never forget.
The moment you enter the door and press the “welcome” touch button, the house springs to life. The lights throughout the home turn on, the blinds open, the TV/radio turn on…all with the touch of one single button!
Luxquisite properties are amazing Luxury Self-Catering Guest House lettings located in the heart of Killarney town centre.
If you are interested in reading more about our experience at the Belmont, check out our review here as we share the very best of why we think Luxquisite Property Lettings is the best place to stay in Killarney!
We realize that this option may not be for everyone but if you are traveling as a group or perhaps on a family vacation, this may be a great alternative for self-catering accommodation.
If you are looking for something a little more affordable, be sure to check out some of the top recommendations on Booking.com. We always use this website, especially for last-minute bookings as you can find some great deals!
Ok, so you have found the perfect place to stay in Killarney but now you are ready to head out and explore everything this town has to offer. Don’t worry, you won’t be disappointed because there are plenty of things to do that will keep you occupied for several days…and that’s just within the town center!
Killarney Architecture
Let’s start with some of the finest examples of gorgeous architecture throughout the town. Ireland is a proud nation of faith and this is typified by the number of places of worship that are scattered throughout the country.
Killarney is home to several beautiful churches and cathedrals that are iconic landmarks even for folks that are not particularly religious but want to admire the inherent beauty of these architectural masterpieces.
St. Mary’s Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral that dates back to 1855 when the doors first opened. This cathedral is situated in a fairly unique location in terms of it being away from the hustle and bustle of Killarney town center.
The setting is typical of a priory (in the heart of a field) rather than a cathedral but this distinctive feature combined with the Gothic Revival style architecture ensures visitors flock from all parts to see this majestic sight.
For those of you that want to experience a church in the center of Killarney, St. Mary’s Church of Ireland is another architectural gem worth visiting.
Known locally as the “Church of the Sloes,” which actually is the meaning of the town itself – Killarney, this is the perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to experience a traditional Irish place of worship while exploring Killarney.
Killarney Brewing Company
Are you ready to sample some of the finest local craft brews in southwest Ireland? Head to the Killarney Brewing Company and experience a delicious array of brews while listening to an expert share the history of this company and the process behind creating these local specialties.
What was once the original Killarney Mineral Water drinks facility has since been transformed into one of Ireland’s most sought-after independent craft breweries and it’s no surprise that this company considers themselves to have “Ireland’s finest range of craft beers.”
Killarney’s Finest Pubs
Whether you spend a day or a week in Killarney, your experience will likely involve some time in one of the many pubs throughout the town.
There is certainly no shortage of pubs to be found and regardless of whether you prefer the traditional Irish pub setting or perhaps something with a little more flamboyance, Killarney is home to a variety of public houses that you need to visit.
Murphy’s Bar, Courtney’s Bar and J.M. Reidys are all examples of some of the popular choices around the town but there is really only one pub that we want to recommend. The Shire is everything you could wish for in a pub yet it is the unique features that make this such a popular attraction for visitors to Killarney
If you love The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy, you will immediately fall in love with The Shire. After visiting “The Shire” in New Zealand, we instantly knew that this Lord of the Rings themed pub was going to be an amazing experience.
The design of The Shire throughout the interior immediately transforms you into Middle-earth while you can never be sure when the next character out of The Lord of the Rings will pop up to welcome you into their natural habitat.
Perhaps sampling one of the delicious brews known as Gandalf, Frodo and Bilbo will convince you that The Shire is the best place to relax in Killarney but in our opinion, it’s the friendly service that you can expect from Ollie and the bar staff that will immediately make you feel at home and part of the Shire family!
Enjoy Fine Local Cuisine
Killarney is home to a number of restaurants to satisfy everyone’s appetite. If you are looking to experience a stereotypical Irish dish such as Fish and Chips or Shepherd’s Pie, why not head to one of the aforementioned pubs for a delicious pub meal. Alternatively, there are a number of restaurants located throughout Killarney that will likely attract your attention.
The Porterhouse Restaurant is an original gastropub that not only features a distinctive blend of local meat and seafood dishes but also a vegan menu to ensure everyone is catered for.
From gourmet burgers to traditional Irish lamb stew, the Porterhouse restaurant offers an eclectic array of dishes that will entice you through the doors.
A full bar featuring specialized whiskeys and gins along with local craft brews is yet another attractive reason for visiting this restaurant.
Looking for something a little more unique while in Killarney? Rob’s Ranch House is the typical Texas-style ranch restaurant that you would expect to find in the Southern United States but certainly not Killarney, Ireland!
We just had to experience this and honestly, the food was excellent! The blend of Irish and southern style cuisine worked well and the decor throughout this restaurant was a great addition.
Killarney National Park
Not only is Killarney a really cool town to experience because of the local culture, it’s also in a great location on the doorstep to Killarney National Park. The reality is, anyone visiting Killarney can experience the best of both worlds – urban and rural in the same trip!
A few minutes drive or bike ride from the town center across the River Flesk and you are immediately transformed from life in the town to the heart of a breathtaking natural landscape.
Be sure to read what we experienced during our Killarney National Park tour. Ross Castle is a gorgeous spot to relax and enjoy the sunset with the lake in the background while the Ladies View is perhaps one of the most iconic scenes throughout County Kerry.
A breathtaking panoramic scene looking throughout the valley is a real sight to behold and if it’s good enough for Queen Victoria’s ladies in waiting, well it’s good enough for us to experience!
If you love waterfalls as much as we do, taking the short stroll from the Ring of Kerry road to Torc Waterfall will be a worthwhile experience. Don’t expect to stumble across Niagara Falls but regardless, I don’t think you will be disappointed with what you see!
Day Trip to Dingle
A visit to Killarney not only gives you the opportunity to experience a beautiful town and national park but it also opens the door to exploring the wider region of County Kerry. A number of day trip options are available including a full experience around the Ring of Kerry but we have another favorite spot that we would love to recommend – Dingle!
If you have seen the movie Leap Year, the town of Dingle will be a familiar name, despite the major geographical flaws in the movie. However, regardless of whether you compare yourself to Amy Adams, the Dingle Peninsula is definitely one of the spectacular spots in Ireland that you cannot afford to miss.
A quirky and quaint fishing village is how I would explain Dingle yet perhaps the real highlights await you when you venture along the Wild Atlantic Way on the Slea Head Drive loop that you can easily spend several hours experiencing.
Take some time to appreciate the beauty surrounding this rugged landscape before heading back into Dingle to enjoy some of Ireland’s best ice cream at Murphy’s!
Summary
Killarney may not be the first destination you associate with Ireland but after spending a few days here, we can well and truly attest that this is a location that needs to be on your radar.
When it comes to Irish culture, there are not many spots around Ireland that offer everything that Killarney does. It’s the perfect location to explore the outdoors, while at the same time offering the opportunity to enjoy a typical Irish pub experience over a pint of Guinness or Gandalf’s Ale if you follow our recommendation and visit The Shire!
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