Photo by LearningLark

Prepare Your Passport

The first part of getting into Europe for the first time is to make sure you have your passport ready. It’s best to make sure that you have your passport renewed as early as possible. This includes having your passport valid for at least six months after the date that you get into Europe.

Check on Foreign Exchange Fees

There are a number of different foreign exchange fees that you might have to deal with when using credit cards or other financial instruments in Europe. This is often used to pay for the process of converting funds in your native currency into funds that are in the currency of the country that you are trying to pay for something in.

The foreign exchange fee that you might have to pay off could be worth about two or three percent of the value of whatever you are buying. You need to check your credit card company to see what you would have to pay when getting your fee.

Consider Driving Points

It’s a good idea to think about the way how you might drive on the left side of the road in some countries. You might even have to drive your car by sitting on the right side of the vehicle instead of the left.

Fortunately, most parts of Europe involve driving on the right side of the road. You’d have to go on the left side of the road if you were in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus or the Isle of Man.

Watch for Tipping

Tipping people who serve you is always a good idea. However, the value of the tip that you can give to someone in Europe might be smaller than what you’d be used to pay off.

You might be able to get away with paying a tip that’s only five or ten percent in value. You might want to talk with locals in the area to see what you should be paying if only to at least see what you could be getting.

Adapt to the Culture

The final tip is to make sure that you adapt to the culture of whatever spot it is you are getting into. Every country has its own interesting things relating to what people do. For example, people in England drink more tea than what you might expect to find where you live. Meanwhile, wine is much more popular in France and Italy than where you might live in.

You have to make sure you are using the right ideas when traveling into Europe for the first time. It’s to give you an idea of what you could be getting out of a trip in the area.

This article is written by Pritam Nagrale who writes about traveling on his blog PNR Status Check. He is a travel freak from India.

The post 5 Best Tips for Travelling for the First Time in Europe appeared first on Europe Explored.

Accident on a highway / Photo by admin

Filing Against a Travel Agent

In some cases, the traveller can file a claim against the travel agent who booked the holiday. This normally occurs if the hotel property was directly responsible for the injury. For example if someone contracts food poisoning while eating at a hotel restaurant and the travel agent booked that hotel, holiday accident claims might be a possibility. Likewise, if an injury occurred due to poorly managed hotel groups while on a holiday, the travel agent assumed responsibility.

The reason is that the hotel acts as a representative of the travel agent and vice versa. It is extremely difficult to file holiday accident claims again businesses in other countries, which is why it is possible to file against a local travel agent. The travel agent will then have to deal with the property in question to regain the money that was given to the traveller. Travellers should be aware of this policy, since it is one more reason to always use a travel agent when booking a holiday.

Filing Against Another Location

If the injury occurs away from the hotel grounds, it becomes more difficult to file a claim. For example, if a holiday is cut short because a visitor slips on a poorly maintained sidewalk and breaks his leg, this is the responsibility of the city, rather than the travel agent. This is because the traveller must follow the laws in the country where the injury occurred and follow this process there. Since the processes are different all over the world, it is a good idea to contact a lawyer with experience in these matters. Filing a civil suit against a city is much more complicated than filing for holiday accident claims with a travel agent.

How to Claim

In order to file holiday accident claims, the traveller must be able to prove that an injury was caused by someone else on the holiday. As a result, it is important that travellers file an incident report with the hotel or travel representative immediately after the incident occurs. Hotels usually have an accident log, so make sure that the incident is filed correctly before filing a claim. Travellers can even gather the contact information of witnesses and take pictures of the location where the incident occurred to further their case. Those who need prescription medicine or medical attention after the incident should save the receipts to get this money back.

Legal Help

In most cases, travellers need legal help with their holiday accident claims. This is because very few travel agents will simply hand over this money without going through the entire process. If the traveller has collected a great deal of evidence, the process becomes much easier and can sometimes be handled without a lawyer. Remember that the case will likely end up in court, which is why legal counsel is a good idea.

Traveller Protection

The laws in the United Kingdom exist because travellers deserve to be protected from these incidents. By making the travel agents responsible, it puts a point of contact within the country, so that British citizens are not left dealing with international legal costs. Some insurance packages also cover these costs, making them well worth looking into for the frequent traveller. All travellers should gain awareness of their rights before leaving for another country to avoid these issues.

Thomas Edwards has been an international traveller since the early ‘80s and has widely covered Europe, the USA and as far afield as Thailand, Hong Kong and China.  He has written as both a business, individual and family traveller and a language or two has given him the opportunity to engage with people to a greater degree.

The post How to Claim Compensation for Accidents While on Holiday appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Ed Webster

1 – Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Located in the West End of the city, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum contains a wide range of artifacts and exhibitions devoted to Glaswegian and more general history. Current exhibitions include a gallery celebrating 500 years of Italian Art, as well as the Glasgow Boys Gallery. The Kelvingrove also provides regular guest talks and lectures, while hosting a series of night events. Highly recommended for families and art lovers wanting to get to grips with Glasgow’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary art trends.

2 – Botanic Gardens and Kibble Palace

Recently restored, the Botanic Gardens and Kibble Palace include multiple examples of rare plants and vegetation within its glasshouses, and also features some of the best rose gardens in the United Kingdom. Visitors can also wander around its gardens, which play host to regular concerts, and talks. One of the most well established destinations within Glasgow, the Gardens also cater to family parties.

3 – Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel

Providing insights into Glasgow’s long maritime past, the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel covers the city’s shipbuilding traditions, while also exploring a number of land based modes of transport. With special tours organised for families, and exhibitions held to celebrate exploration and travel, the Riverside Museum is one of the most unique attractions in the city.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by dun_deagh

4 – People’s Palace and Winter Gardens

With a long history as a centre for local art and celebration, the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens tells the story of Glaswegians from 1750 to the present, and represents one of the oldest public spaces in the city.

5 – Glasgow Cathedral

Open since 1197, the Glasgow Cathedral features excellent stained glass windows and a range of different architectural styles. Regular tours are held during the week, and operas and other concerts are conducted in evening slots.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Thomas Duesing

6 – Burrell Collection

Part of County Park, the Burrell Collection includes 8000 objects of interest, as well as a wide range of temporary exhibits. Current collections include studies of ancient civilizations and Gothic and Islamic art. Particularly recommended is the Collection’s tapestry gallery.
art and history

7 – The Tall Ship

Another fine example of Glasgow’s shipyard past, The Tall Ship at the Riverside Museum is one of the few preserved 19th century ships still to be found in the UK. The ship also acts as a way into understanding the history of Scottish trading, and features a number of maritime themed events, as well as regular classes and exhibitions.

8 – Glasgow Science Centre

Ideal for novices and science experts, the Glasgow Science Centre features exhibitions catered to different disciplines and histories. The Centre also includes an IMAX screen and a planetarium.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Francois Schnell

9 – Willow Tearooms

First opened in 1904, the Willow Tearooms are an excellent way to get around from the crowds near Sauchiehall Street. Enjoy sandwiches and tea within an art deco setting, while taking in some of the sights of central Glasgow. The Tearooms also have another venue at nearby Buchanan St.

10 – The Corinthian Club

A dining bar and venue on the Ship Bank, the Corinthian Club boasts Victorian interiors, and includes regular exhibitions and expert talks, with future events set to look at the Paralympics.

Kirsten Johnston  is a freelance copywriter currently working within the hotel and accommodation industry for www.crowneplazaglasgow.co.uk  Kirsten’s passion for writing and desire to travel has provided her with great experience and insight within all areas with the travel industry.

View Top 10 Places to visit in Glasgow – the largest city in Scotland United Kingdom in a larger map

The post Top 10 Places to visit in Glasgow – the largest city in Scotland | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Tomas Maltby

Brighton Pier

World-famous for a reason the pier is a Brighton institution and no trip would be complete without at least a quick walk along it.

The remains of the old West Pier can be seen from the promenade of the surviving pier by Grand Junction. The skeleton of metal is still incredibly beautiful, despite years of storm damage and remains a great reminder of its former glory.

The modern pier offers everything you’d expect from arcades to restaurants, including the best fish and chips within hundreds of miles.

The Lanes

If you’re a vintage shopper than The Lanes could well be your paradise. A collection of narrow streets, crammed with various boutiques, it is a warren of fine designer clothes, retro phones, brand-name shaded and cuddly toys.

The hunt for a bargain is on, made all the more enjoyable by the lack of charity street-collectors and the presence of entertaining street performers.

The Brighton Toy and Model Museum

We have yet to discover a toy museum that didn’t instantly send us to a happier time, when our only concern was when we’d have to stop playing to eat and sleep.

Located in the magical arches of a railway station, this museum is right in the city centre and offers a collection of over 10,000 toys. You can even play with a few, while toy trains take long laps around the building.

Brighton Festival

The festival takes place for three weeks every May and the city becomes a hive of excitement throughout that time, so it’s well worth planning your trip to coincide.

The programme changes every year, but you can expect around 700 shows of theatre, musical and art.

The Brighton i-360

Although not open until next year, we thought it was worth mentioning this eye-catching design that will soon dominate the Brighton skyline. The sleek-looking observation tower will stand a full 183 metres high and be able to carry 100 visitors to its top, at one time.

It’s no surprise that it’s being designed by those clever people behind the London Eye, although you can expect a more beautiful view and cheaper prices.

Written by Matt for The Claremont Hotel, a luxurious boutique, family run hotel right in the heart of Brighton.

View 5 Places You Must See in Brighton United Kingdom in a larger map

The post 5 Places You Must See in Brighton | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Albert Dock, Liverpool, UK / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Ronald Saunders

Tourists often stick to the most well-known places such as London, Oxford and Cambridge, but there are some fantastic gems in the north of England. If you love looking around cities, which have a mix of old architecture and new, then you must plan some time to explore the northern cities of Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool. All three have very relevant history within very different industries, but are often overlooked as a tourist destination. This is a great shame, as they all over some fantastic sights.

Liverpool

Birthplace of the Beatles, Liverpool, of course, gives you the opportunity to explore the legend of this fantastic band. The Cavern Club, where they first started out, still has live bands playing, so you may get the chance to see the next big group live at the Cavern. The Albert docks of Liverpool provide some very unique shops, which focus on vintage styles as well as the style of the town. For a more modern shopping experience, head to the city centre in particularly towards the new Liverpool One shopping mall, and enjoy the sights of old architectural buildings inhabiting modern stores along the way to it.

Leeds

Leeds became what it is today through its cotton industry, but now it’s a hot spot for fantastic architecture and great nights out. If you’re a fan of cabaret and stand-up then you must go to the famous City Varieties. Although small in size city Varieties are constantly pushing the boundaries of known theatre, and did so successfully last winter with their Rock n’ Roll pantomime. But there’s plenty to see in Leeds in the day, too. Just opposite some very stylish city flats of Clarence dock is the Royal Armouries Museum. The museum will take you on a journey through the history of Anglo-Saxon warfare and weaponry. You can witness some live-action sword fights in this museum, while looking at the largest armoury collection of the country.

Leeds Castle, England, United Kingdom / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Dimo Dimov

Manchester

Although Manchester is renowned for its successful football team, it is giving Liverpool a run for its money in terms of being the hottest place for music hits. The music scene of the city is referred to as “Madchester” and has been the beginning of bands such as Oasis and The Stone Roses. It’s also held an annual Jazz festival for 17 years and counting. Architecture-wise you will discover some of the most beautiful red-brick buildings of the UK as well as some of the most contemporary ones. The  Lowry centre, for example, not only shows off the masterpieces of one of England’s most famous artists, but is a work of art itself.

These are just three hidden gems of the UK, and this is just sticking to cities. There’s plenty of unique countryside to discover on your way to each, so be sure to plan enough time to explore it all.

This article was written by Sarah Oxley on behalf of ONE UK, your key to trendy flats in Manchester and the north of England.

View The Hidden Gems Of The United Kingdom in a larger map

The post The Hidden Gems Of The United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

A view looking along Glen Rosa, Arran / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by uplandaccess

And as much as it might be thought ‘Scotland in miniature’ is an exaggeration or simply marketing hype, the truth is there isn’t much of Scotland you can’t experience when you’re on Arran.

Arran’s Landscape

Starting with the island’s landscape, Arran is a particularly mountainous isle, not only producing some of the country’s best postcard photographs, but offering a fantastic array of walks for experienced and amateur walkers alike.

From leisurely walks to climbing challenges, try setting off from the village of Blackwaterfoot on the west coast and heading north towards Lochranza. It’s a beautiful walk, benefited tremendously by simply looking left – you’ll have an unrivalled view of the stunning Kintyre for the entire journey.

If walking isn’t your thing, what about a relaxing stroll through one of the islands many beautiful villages?

Home to no more than a couple of hundred people each, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll be blown away by one of two things – the sheer tranquillity of sitting outside, drink in hand, watching the world go by on an island that seems to be completely removed from any type of hustle and bustle or the simple friendliness of the people who are so proud of their island and love to share its intricacies and delights with everyone.

And if you’re looking for something a little more cultural or historic, how about Brodick Castle, a castle that’s still standing strong after 500 years?

Brodick Castle, Arran / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Magnus Hagdorn

Anyone for Whisky?

Or Arran Distillery, perhaps, if you’re partial to a wee dram? Although having only been established for just over 15 years, Arran Distillery produces some of the country’s finest single malt whisky and is the only distillery in the whole of Scotland that is allowed to use the famed Scottish poet, Robert Burns, on its labelling.

It’s also worthwhile keeping in mind that on top of the island’s ability to provide beautiful walks with stunning scenery, quaint villages to enjoy a relaxing time in and a range of popular attractions, there are also a number of golf courses on the island, courses that have arguably some of Europe’s most favourable backdrops.

The Isle of Arran is one of those destinations that people very often skim over when deciding on where to visit Scotland, as they can feel visiting a more well-known place will be more beneficial to the time they have.

But with so much to see and do and on an island that can at times seem like it’s completely your own, where else in Scotland would you need to go?

Matthew Bettoli writes for Cottages and Castles, who can provide comfortable Arran holiday cottages for your next Scottish holiday.

View The Isle Of Arran – A True Melting Pot Of Scotland’s Best Bits United Kingdom in a larger map

The post The Isle Of Arran – A True Melting Pot Of Scotland’s Best Bits | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Great British Chefs Team

Yes, London is home to some of the strangest foods and delicacies in the world. While it’s not surprising based on the city’s diverse cultures and knack for serving up odd meals, you can’t help but wonder how some of these foods actually became popular.

Here are some of London’s weirdest foods:

1. Chocolate Covered Scorpions

Do I really need to tell you what’s in this delicacy? If you couldn’t figure it out by now, all that’s in a chocolate covered scorpion is, you guessed it, chocolate and a scorpion.

It sounds downright disgusting, but people have reported that the texture and taste is similar to a Kit Kat bar. How lovely! If you’re willing to give this a shot, you can order them through various online sources, or you can just go straight to a shop in London. Be careful, these are a bit on the expensive side.

2. Scotch Eggs

Invented in 1738 by Fortnum & Mason, a department store located in central London, the scotch egg quickly caught on. While Americans might think it’s strange that a department store would sell food items, it’s perfectly normal in the UK.

A scotch egg consists of a hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage, rolled in breadcrumbs and then finally deep-fried to perfection. It sounds like something a group of drunk chavs would think of, but it’s actually a perfect combination of flavor and texture, and the price isn’t too bad, either.

3. Kidney Pie

Mate! Pass me a pint and kidney pie! Well, something like that. Whatever London natives say is what they’ll say!

Anyway, yes, this is typically served in a pub setting. In a kidney pie you’ll find diced or mashed kidney (typically from lamb or pig), onion and gravy. The gravy is a mixture of broth, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper and flour to give it some form. All of these ingredients get stuffed into a puffed pastry.

Mmmmm!

4. Kangaroo Steak

As the name implies, you can find a slab of kangaroo meat primed and ready to be eaten. Much like how conventional steak eaters would order based on temperature, you’d do the same here. While the meat is a bit tougher when compared to its more common beef brother, it’s still a delectable and juicy experience.

There are a couple of restaurants in the heart of London that serve this specialty, so don’t miss out!

5. ‘Strange Thing’

Yeah, that’s actually the name of the dish, and after you see what it is, you’ll wholeheartedly agree with the name.

The ‘Strange Thing’ is a pastry filled with cheese, courgette (zucchini) and sweet corn. I’m not sure who came up with this idea, but sheesh, what an imagination, huh?

Surprisingly, it actually has been noted as having a fairly rich and decadent flavor, with the cheese balancing out the sweetness of the courgette and sweet corn.

There you have it: some of the weirdest foods that London has to offer. If you’re feeling brave, give ‘em a shot!

About the author: Joe Petchonka writes web content, press releases and blogs for a number of different organizations, including CT used cars dealers.

The post 5 Weirdest Foods that London has to Offer Willing Tourists | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by David Merrett

To avoid a clash with the 2012 Olympics in London (never heard of it, personally), the festival has been brought forward from its usual August schedule. It will now take place, in and around the glorious Hereford Cathedral, from 21-28 July.

For those of you who have never heard of the Three Choirs Festival, you’re in or a treat. Let me enlighten you and perhaps you can comment in reply, introducing me to the various ins and outs of these so-called Olympics (whatever they might be).

The Tree Choirs Festival has been running for nearly 400 years. It began as a two-day gathering to celebrate ecclesiastical music and gather the bordering cathedral counties of Hereford, Worcester and Gloucester.

Since its inception, the festival has developed and expanded, with each of the three cities hosting according annual rotation. The three choirs of the respective cathedrals remain central to the programme; although other core ensembles and distinguished guests have been added, in recent years.

The festival has a long association with distinguished British composers, such as Ralph Vaughan Williams and Edward Elgar. Purcell and Handel were frequently performed across the 18th century, while Mendelssohn and Haydn became firm festival favourites from in the 19th century.

Beethoven, Mozart and Rossini became extremely popular in the 1800s, but the greatest impact was not made by a composer, but by engineers. With the invention of the railway, the festival gained large crowds and revenues.

This new found popularity did not sit easily with The Church and the festival was scaled back, but it wasn’t to last. The festival was reinstated in all its glory as J.S. Bach was played for the first time.

In the 20th century the festival concentrated on British musicians and began a tradition of premiering and commission new work, including that of Finzi, Howell and Parry.

Now, the three cathedral choirs are joined by the Festival Chorus, who perform the majority of the large scale repertoire. Guests are also regularly invited and this year sees the beginning of the Philharmonia Orchestra’s three year-long residency, as well as the first visit of composer Diego Mathuez from Venezuala and a world premier by Dobrina Tabakova.

If you’d like to learn more of the history, then there is an excellent timeline of the Three Choir’s most important events on their website.

Written by Simon for Hotel Shop, offering cheap breaks across the UK and beyond.

View Three Choirs Festival set for an Early Start in Hereford United Kingdom in a larger map

The post Three Choirs Festival set for an Early Start in Hereford | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by DAVID ILIFF

The London Eye

This attraction is a really great way to see the city (and a lot cheaper than a helicopter ride) and on a clear day you can see as far as 25 miles, but even on a not so clear day the views over London are still stunning. It’s the world’s largest observation wheel and takes about 30 minutes to do one revolution. If tickets are booked in advance they cost from £15.00 per adult but concessions are available for children and OAPs. If you turn up on the day expect to pay from £25.00 per adult, no concessions, and if you fancy it you can either hire an entire capsule, which can hold up to about 25 people.

Tower of London

Situated on the northern side of Tower Bridge (an attraction in its own right) this iconic building houses far more than just one sight for its viewer. The Tower of London is known for holding the crown jewels, but it began life as a show of power under the Norman invader, William the Conqueror. The tower then went on to become a prison to Sir Walter Raleigh and even two of Henry VIII’s wives. Entry to the tower costs from £18.00 per adult or £47.00 for family made up of two adults and up to 6 children. For those who fancy a good pint and some food afterwards cross Tower Bridge and about 50 metres down the road is a great pub on the left hand side called ‘The Draft House’; ask them for their pork scratching’s, they’re amazing!

Shopping

For those of you who love high street shopping nowhere comes as famous as Oxford Street. If you fancy more designer wear then Regent Street runs immediately across it. For those who love something a bit more alternative and niche, without having to go far, then Carnaby Street, which runs immediately parallel to the East of Regent Street is a fantastic experience; it’s Christmas decorations and lights are also always something to behold.

There are so many things you can do in London but the three above provide a good range of things you could do all in one or two days, depending on how much shopping you intend to do!

Why not spend your bank holidays 2012 seeing the sights of London; however, if you plan to go early in the year check, when do the clocks go forward? You don’t want to miss your flight!

View Top things to do in London United Kingdom in a larger map

The post Top things to do in London | United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Jon Mountjoy

What to Visit

Edinburgh is a history lover’s dream. It’s best to start at the famous 12th century castle, where you can enjoy great views over the city spread before you. Next, take a stroll down the Royal Mile and admire the period buildings until you reach the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Once the home of Mary Queen of Scots – the country’s most iconic monarch – you can visit her chambers today as part of the museum.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by SteveR-

Near the palace lies St Arthur’s Seat, the impressive mountain that hovers over the city. The original abbey connected to the palace sits at the top and energetic visitors can enjoy a hike to explore the ruins and more excellent panoramas over Edinburgh.

The Old Town – home to the Scottish Parliament building – is also well worth a visit, whilst the Royal Botanic Gardens make a charming setting for sunny strolls.

If shopping is more your thing, a walk along the shopping Mecca of Princes Street should be top of your itinerary. This is the place to visit the big name stores, but you can find more independent and craft shops in quirky Grassmarket – just the place for Scottish souvenirs and unique gifts.

Where to Eat

Like all good capital cities, Edinburgh has an excellent range of restaurants, from the Michelin starred gourmet establishments to budget student haunts. To treat yourself to a taste of Scotland, head to Kyloe Restaurant & Grill, where all the steaks come from local Aberdeen Angus beef. For fish fans, Ondine is the best place to indulge a love of seafood in the heart of Edinburgh. Take a seat at the amazing Crustacean Bar and fill up on clams and local oysters washed down with champagne.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by dozydotes

Where to Drink

There are a great number of old fashioned pubs in Edinburgh around the Grassmarket and Cowgate areas, and you won’t be disappointed if you head here on a night out. Great music is on the menu at Jazz Bar on Chambers Street, where live bands and a laid back atmosphere make for a fun evening.

A weekend in Scotland wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile. Although the last tour is at 5pm so it’s more an afternoon than evening treat, the fun of sampling different malts and trundling through the factory in a carriage that looks like a barrel can’t be overstated!

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by ayustety

Where to Sleep

On a weekend getaway, a central bed and breakfast in Edinburgh is just what you need. Tania Guest House in Edinburgh is a short stroll from the Royal Mile, so you won’t have to worry about catching the last bus or shelling out for a taxi. The modern rooms start at £30 a night, making this B&B in Edinburgh a bargain so close to the city centre. For a special or romantic city break, try boutique Ritz Hotel, which boasts four poster beds and a cocktail bar.

Alice Woolliams is the Editor for Enjoybedandbreakfast.com, a travel website for accommodation with personality in the UK. The website offers a growing selection of quaint B&Bs, charming inns, small boutique hotels and guest houses. You can find her on twitter @enjoybnb when she’s not travelling the world!

View Edinburgh – A Historic and Vibrant City Scotland, United Kingdom in a larger map

The post Edinburgh – A Historic and Vibrant City | Scotland, United Kingdom appeared first on Europe Explored.