Koninginnedag (Queen’s Day) – a national holiday, Amsterdam, The Netherlands by Jeroen

Really Amsterdam is not for the faint hearted. Do not be surprised if you see people smoking pot on road, gays moving hand in hand in the malls and the erotic sights in red light districts of the city. Some get a cultural shock of sorts when they arrive in Amsterdam, but for those who are on the lookout of delicious foods, Amsterdam is a paradise. People in Amsterdam have an easy view of life. Enjoy food in all possible ways and make merry no matter what tensions you are facing in life.

One thing to keep in mind when you arrive in Amsterdam is to look for apartments. Yes, staying at apartments in Amsterdam is not just inexpensive, they are more spacious than hotel rooms and a tourist can relax in style with a lot of privacy in these apartments. Of late, people are getting attracted to apartments as they provide a chance to come close to the local people and culture and so the situation is same whether we are making a reservation for apartments in Lisbon or apartments in Milan in Italy.

Many believe Amsterdam to be a shopper’s paradise. It is true but Amsterdam is also a great place for the foodies if they know where and at what time to be in for some really delicious foods.

Elf – for great food and panoramic view of the city

Elf is a great café, more so because of its location. It is situated at the top floor of a building close to Central Station that allows the tourists to relax in style to have a glimpse of the city while having their food. Whether it is brunch, breakfast, lunch or dinner, come to this 11th floor restaurant that becomes a great nightclub at nights.

De Waag

If you want unique ambience with great tasting food, come to De Waag. The building has great architecture and is very old. It was built in 1488 to be precise, and till a few years back the building served as headquarters of Dutch Mail. More suited for brunches and for sudden cravings for tasty foods, you can come her to have tasty soups, steaks, sandwiches and salads.

Sumo

Unlimited Sushi and more for just 25 Euros make this restaurant a very popular one. There are some who feel that it is perhaps quantity over quality but once they have tasted the sushi over here, they realize they are truly getting their money’s worth.

The post Amsterdam for Foodies: See the City with a new Perspective appeared first on Europe Explored.

As a result of the UNESCO biosphere designation, the Menorcan authorities are even more careful to ensure that its environment and the plants and animals it supports are protected and preserved for years to come. This gives rise to some unique and interesting ways in which tourism on the island is handled and some unique experiences for visitors to Menorca.

Tranquil beaches and quiet villages

One of the benefits of Menorca’s restrictions on development is the peace and tranquillity that you’ll find on the island. Rather than the blaring night clubs and raucous bars of many of the other Spanish coastal tourist resorts, Menorca has miles of unspoilt coast and many villages with quiet cobbled streets that are never troubled by traffic.

Cala Galdana, Menorca, Spain by Matth i

If you enjoy time on the beach, there’s plenty to attract you to the island and its stunning stretches of sand.

Flora and fauna

Aside from the beaches, there are plenty of attractions for naturalists in Menorca. Birdwatchers will be kept very busy with a range of rare and unusual birds including Raptors, Egyptian Vultures and Booted Eagles seen soaring in the skies above the island. Late April is thought to be the best time for birders to visit, with the island acting as a key staging point for birds migrating across the Mediterranean.

Minorcan countryside, Spain by Francisco Valverde

The islands heaths and wetlands are protected and monitored by park rangers at the Albufera des Grau Natural Park. The park has an environmental museum that opens to the public, offering a fascinating commentary on the work of the park to protect indigenous species of plants and the birds of prey that nest in the area.

The park has several well-marked paths that allow visitors to explore this unique wildlife habitat and gives the opportunity to see some of the plants and creatures native to the area.

Culture and craft

Menorca’s UNESCO recognition extends beyond the ecological and environmental to the culture of the island. With a unique language – Menorquin – which is part Spanish, part Catalan the islanders have something that is completely different to anywhere else in the Mediterranean. In addition to the language and culture, including the strong heritage of horsemanship and agrarian living, Menorca has a host of prehistoric sites indicating a culture dating back to the Bronze Age and maybe even earlier.

One way in which the Menorcans have maintained their culture is through the handicrafts that are still practiced across the island. In particular, handmade leather shoes are made in tiny workshops by craftsmen and women whose skills have been handed down from generation to generation. The Albarca shoes, which are particular to the area, can be found in little shops and boutiques across the island.

Islanders are also skilled jewellers and metal smiths, and artisan jewellers are attracted to the island for the Eurobijoux trade fair in Mahon in September. At the leading edge of the trends, jewellery and accessories seen at the fair are likely to be seen replicated across the world in the following seasons.

Conclusion

This delicate cultural and environmental climate deserves respect and those who will do so receive a warm welcome on the island. With plenty of villas available, you can take advantage of the peace and quiet to get a complete break from the rat race. If you want to stay at a beautiful Menorca villa during your stay visit this link.

The post Menorca’s Ecological Treasures | Spain appeared first on Europe Explored.

Binigaus, Menorca by Boladevidre

The Port of Mahon

The capital, Mahon or Mao, is situated at the world’s second-largest harbour. The historic town is a scenic gem, with the sapphire-blue sea providing the ideal backdrop for a remarkable collection of buildings.

If you fancy a trip out of town, visit the S’Albufera des Grau Natural Park, a huge park around three miles from Mahon, which is renowned for its range of flora and fauna. A haven for everything from turtles to olive trees, it is ideal for those seeking a change from the usual sun holiday experience.

Binigaus Valley

Another site of immense and varied beauty, Binigaus Valley is best known for Cova des Coloms, one of the island’s biggest cave complexes. Nearby is an idyllic beach, which is perfect for swimming.

Algendar Gorge

Stretching over four miles, this vast limestone gorge is one of the most impressive natural features on the island. A surprising variety of flowers and wildlife thrives in the limestone fissures, and the area is also home to a range of rare birds and reptiles. Keep an eye out for the kites and kestrels that prey on the lizards and turtles that dart from the cracks in limestone. Algendar Gorge is certainly one of the most impressive areas in the whole of Menorca.

Beaches

As a sun-holiday paradise, Menorca has all the beaches you could ever want. If you’re looking for sand and sea, Menorca doesn’t tend to be as crowded as the other Balearic Islands.

One of the island’s favourite spots for swimming and sun bathing, Son Bou is a beautiful, long beach with fine sands. Resorts and villas nearby tend to be highly popular among families. In comparison, Punta Prima is more adult-orientated, offering a range of water sports facilities, bars, and restaurants. With some of the strongest currents on the island, it is not suitable for children who want to swim.

Diving

The island is one of the most impressive places in the Mediterranean for scuba diving and offers over 15 schools for would-be divers. If you don’t have PADI certification, this could be the perfect opportunity to get it and see some amazing sea life in the process.

Menorca is one of the most naturally beautiful places in the entire Mediterranean, and, although it is famous as a sun holiday destination, it is relatively unspoiled. It represents the ideal mix of amenities and pristine beauty, something few other places can offer.

So, why not enjoy yourself and see the sites with car hire in Menorca. The island is deceptively large, so car hire means you can see the area’s natural beauty quickly and easily.

The post Explore the Natural Beauty of Menorca | Spain appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Alejandro Sánchez Marcos

S’Albufera des Grau Nature Park

Whilst Menorca is certainly the lesser visited of the Balearic Islands, during the summer months the number of visitors naturally increases. Escape the busy resort beaches for a day and relish in the natural beauty of the island’s only nature park. The network of wetlands, coastline and farmland welcomes a wide variety of both flora and fauna and a visit here will be sure to keep you at ease with the world. A lighthouse is found at the northern end of the park and a trip to the top will afford unbeatable views over hidden beaches and rocky coves.

Sant Lluis

One of the fastest growing yet traditional towns in Menorca, Sant Lluis, surrounded by picturesque countryside, makes for a great day trip. On your approach the huge traditional windmill will capture your attention so pull up and venture inside. The streets are chock a bloc with inviting pastry shops, the perfect stop for a tasty mid-morning snack, interspersed with small intriguing shops. The impressive church, Eglesia de Sant Lluis, is also deserving of a visit.

Ciutadella

The other main city of Menorca and the old capital, Ciutadella is located on the western coast of the island. A visit here will be particularly enthralling for anyone with an interest in history, as many buildings erected during the 17th century populate the old town. Be sure to stop by at the Castell Sant Nicolas, an old defence tower come exhibition gallery with the best views of the sunset, and the Cathedral; a stunning building that was originally a mosque before it was rebuilt in 1287. The picture perfect port area is the ideal setting for a long and relaxing lunch or dinner at one of the numerous fish restaurants.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Freebird

Somni Dancing Horses

Although not a full day trip, the Somni Dancing Horses are not to be missed. Menorca has long had associations with horses and is in fact famous for its own breed of black horses. Make your way to the stables on the road to Cala Galdana and you can enjoy an unmissable night that will show you the legends and traditions of Menorca whilst you enjoy a mix of equestrian arts and fantasy! After the show, you can often take a walk around the stables and paddocks and get up close to the horses and foals.

There is much to be enjoyed in Mahon itself and across the island of Menorca and this is just a selection of some of the best day trips you can enjoy during your holiday.

Bio: Kerri Ware is a travel blogger and writes for Economy Car Hire, a car hire broker offering great deals for car hire across Europe and beyond. Follow us on Twitter @economycarhire.

View Top Day Trips from Mahon Menorca, Spain in a larger map

The post Top Day Trips from Mahon | Menorca, Spain appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Leonora Enking

Mountains

Over 80% of Greece consists of mountains. It is one of the most mountainous regions in all of Europe, third only to Norway and Albania. It is located in South-Eastern Europe at the convergence of three continents, Europe, Asia, and Africa. What makes this country unique is the view of the sea from almost any mountain top. The mountains are not very high, the tallest being just less than 3,000 meters, but the sea is never more than 100 Km. Mount Olympus is the tallest mountain and contains over 52 peaks. It also is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Peninsula

Greece offers a unique combination of largely mountainous regions, but also a peninsula. Peninsulas are characterized as being projected into a large body of water but connected to a mainland. Often a peninsula is surrounded by almost 75% water. Greece is located at the southern end of the Balkan Peninsula on the Peninsula of Haemus.  This peninsula is connected to the mainland by the canal of Corinth Isthmus.

Islands

Greece includes over 1600 islands and islets that are grouped into clusters. There are on 227 of the islands that are actually inhabited though. Five of the most popular and well known are: Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, the Dodecanese and the Cyclades. An entire vacation alone could be spent exploring this vast region of islands. Potentially the most famous is Crete. It is the largest island in Greece and fifth largest in the Mediterranean. It serves as a large tourist hub so much of the economy and business caters to travelers.  The other islands are lesser known than Crete but still have much too offer. With less tourism traffic it is possible to get around easier and more efficiently yet still enjoy the beauty and wonder of the Grecian islands.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Ronald Saunders

Hot Springs

One significant hot spring has been the site of many battles of centuries due to its valuable location on the Balkan Peninsula that is a necessary passage route from the north to the south. This was the site where the Persians and Spartans battled and the oft repeated saying “Go tell it to the Spartans” was ignited.

Forests of Greece

Up to one quarter of the land area of Greece is covered by forests. They are considered to be of significant value to the natural landscape and tourism industry so they are widely protected. Housed within these forests are many national parks where afternoons picnicking can be a delightful treat. These parks tend to be located deep within valleys in between gorges so an afternoon dining provides quite a sight to see as well.

The landscape of Greece is truly amazing and you should definitely explore it yourself if you have the chance.  Villa holidays in Greece are ideal for people of all ages and with villas located throughout the country you can stay somewhere beautiful and unique depending on your tastes.

View Experience the Amazing Geographical Features of Greece in a larger map

The post Experience the Amazing Geographical Features of Greece appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo by hungarospa.hu

Healing water has 75°C and contains salt, iodine, bromine, fluoride and many other solutes. It is suitable for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, skin diseases or chronic gynecological problems. It is also good during recovery after injuries and operations.

The spa resort features 13 outdoor pools, including one reserved for children, as well as water park with several slides, and play-ground for beach volleyball or tennis and other sports. Accommodation capacity in the city is huge, you can choose from several hotels, guest houses, camping sites and private accommodation.

A popular area for hiking trips is adjacent Hortobágy National Park with its unique flora and fauna. It is the largest protected area in the country. Twenty-minute ride by car will take you to Debrecen, the oldest center of education, the center of the Hungarian Reformation. The town has many historical and cultural monuments and it is a place of a large number of cultural events, providing an excellent program for those looking for intellectual pleasures.

For further information visit www.hungarospa.hu

View Hajdúszoboszló – great thermal aquapark and spa resort in Hungary in a larger map

The post Hajdúszoboszló – great thermal aquapark and spa resort in Hungary appeared first on Europe Explored.

The national park is popular with hikers and mountaineers, but not suitable for beginners. Sarek National Park has no marked trails, no accommodation possibilities.

Sarek National Park was established in 1909 (in this year the first national parks in Europe have been established) and protects nearly 2000 km2 of wilderness.

Sarek National Park is best reached from Kvikkjokk. Another way is by ship from Ritsema on the north side through the lake Akkajaure. Whether you choose any path you will get into absolute wilderness. You will find here more than 100 peaks that are higher than 1,800 meters and over a hundred glaciers.

View Sarek National Park in Sweden – largest area of unspoilt nature in Europe in a larger map

The post Sarek National Park in Sweden – largest area of unspoilt nature in Europe appeared first on Europe Explored.

Approximately every 12 hours influx and outflow of the North Sea are repeated. Thanks to this fact, there are many diverse species of fauna and flora living here, such as mussels, snails, starfish, seals and many migratory birds.

When a shoal dries, it makes the Waddenzee the popular tourist area. In the Waddenzee, there are many guides that you can follow for hiking and never go alone as the flora and fauna is protected. Waddenzee is in UNESCO World Heritage List since 2009.

View Waddenzee – a unique natural habitat in Netherlands in a larger map

The post Waddenzee – a unique natural habitat in Netherlands appeared first on Europe Explored.

Protected Landscape Area of the Eastern Carpathians was established on July 9, 1977 with the original area of 96 810 ha. Part of the area was included in the National Park of Poloniny in 1997 and the rest stayed as Protected Landscape Area of the Eastern Carpathians with only 25 307 ha. Best preserved parts of the Eastern Carpathians are protected as national nature reserves.

The area is characterized by rich forests, which are a major component of eco-stabilizing the country and a suitable environment for flora and fauna bound on the forest environment. In the small protected areas are still preserved natural fir beech forests located on flysch slopes of Laborecká highlands.

Natural forest stands are also suitable environment for protected and endangered animals, which live here, like wolf, bear, otter, Ural owl, black stork, black woodpecker, lesser spotted eagle and other species.

Protected Landscape Area of the Eastern Carpathians follows the border with Poland. It stretches from southeast to northwest, in the Low Beskydy.

There is Europe’s largest complex of beech forests and native forests in the Eastern Carpathians. You can enjoy there beautiful and wildlife forests, but various national cultural monuments as well. The greatest tourist attractions are wooden churches.

Protected Landscape Area of the Eastern Carpathians is suitable for activities like hiking, biking, fishing, horseback riding and skiing in winter.

THE MOST INTERESTING PLACES
Snina Stone (1005m above sea level) providing spectacular views of the surrounding of Snina.

Marine Eye – the largest volcanic lake in the Slovak Republic, is under Snina stone. It is one of the most beautiful natural lakes in the Slovak Republic.

Astronomical Observatory – located in Kolonica village – is equipped with the largest astronomical telescope in the Slovak Republic.

CULTURE
You can visit the main and essential festival of the region Snina, which is the presentation of local folklore (at the turn of August and September). The name of festival is “Podvihorlatský folklórní festival pod Sninským kamenem”.

Or visit Snina fair which held annually on the anniversary of the first written mention of the town Snina (in September).

View Protected Landscape Area of the Eastern Carpathians in Slovakia in a larger map

The post Protected Landscape Area of the Eastern Carpathians in Slovakia appeared first on Europe Explored.

Steep cliffs are covered with forests, and the geological bedrock (granite) affects both the landscape and vegetation. There are two castles at the borders of the national park, Burg Hardegg and ruined castle Kaja. You can find there about half of all plant species originating from Austria.

Animal World is so prominent and contains a large number of very rare species of vertebrates. In terms of sport, cycling and hiking are popular activities in the park.

At the Czech side there is one of the most beautiful water reservoir called Vranov. In the case of bad weather you can visit nice city of Znojmo and test the Czech wine.

View National Park Thayatal in Austria in a larger map

The post National Park Thayatal in Austria – one of the most beautiful landscapes appeared first on Europe Explored.