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Seasoned advice for British Travellers

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Heading to the UK? Consider these travel tips

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It might not be possible for most people at the moment, but the UK rules on travel are poised to change.

Does this mean that an influx of tourists are set to bear on the country in May? Who knows.

Like most nations, tourism has been hugely impacted through the pandemic, although with a stellar vaccination programme in place the UK does seem to be in a good position to turn this around in the not-too-distant future.

Following on from the above, if you are planning a trip to the country, read on and decipher the following advice to help you on your way.

Be careful how you understand the rules

The UK government has put together some formal timeframes on when the country will reopen again. As we have already alluded to, international travel forms part of this, with the country supposedly set to open to visitors from abroad in mid-May.

However, this is not set in stone. There are various criteria that needs to be met for this to happen – meaning that you must be able to be flexible with your plans. The situation could turn on its head in a matter of days.

If you are traveling for a prolonged period of time, search for storage near me to safeguard your trip. If things change, and you have to stay for a different length of time, knowing that you have the flexibility of storing your belongings your own terms is great for peace of mind.

Avoid public transport

There are two strands to this next piece of advice. If all goes well, there should theoretically be no reason why you should avoid public transport for pandemic reasons, although many would suggest that it’s somewhat safer to do so.

However, this point instead revolves around overusing public transport. A lot of tourists will immediately head into London and jump on the tube. Sure, for some trips there’s absolutely no problem with such an approach, but for others it can be quicker, and more scenic, to walk.

In some ways, there’s nothing better than getting lost on your travels (within reason, of course). It gets you off the touristic track and allows you to sample local life.

Be wary of any plans you make

This final point isn’t about any dates that the UK government may opt to change – we should have already covered that through today’s article.

Instead, it’s about any plans you make once you arrive in the UK.

You’ll have probably read about all of the top attractions and want to tick them off in bucket list-esque fashion as you venture around the country.

Such an approach is admirable, but times have changed. The pandemic means that attractions have altered their opening hours, with some not being open at all. It means that you need to go back to basics with your trip’s plan and assess what you truly can and can’t do once you arrive in the UK.

5 Magnificent Italian Regions to Visit 

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Are you planning to tour Italy in 2022? There are various reasons why you might want to visit the home of the Roman Empire, Tuscany wines, and the Venice Grand Canal next year. One of the main ones is the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has made international travel difficult due to airline restrictions. A lot of tour companies are preparing to offer Italy tours 2022, and while selecting one, there are lots of popular destinations to pick from. Some of them are:

 

1. Rome

This is the largest city and capital of the Italian peninsula. It was also the heart of the Roman Empire, which lasted from 27 BC to 476 AD. Today, Rome is one of the most famous modern cities, although tourists often visit the ancient structures, including:

  • Colosseum
  • Imperial Forum
  • Pantheon
  • Sistine Chapel
  • Peter’s Basilica

These are some of the most impressive buildings in the city of Rome. When creating an itinerary for your Roman holiday, consider adding these top destinations to your to-do list.

2. Sicily

This is Italy’s largest island and is famous for different sites like charming villages, beautiful beaches, and ancient ruins.

It’s also famous for different landscapes. This includes the sandy coastlines with warm Mediterranean waters and mountain villages. These landscapes are ideal for a wide range of activities.

The big island is also a blend of different cultures that have affected factors like cuisine. This includes nearby North African and Middle Eastern nations.

The Italian island has become world-famous for its cuisine. Some examples include Sicilian pizza, seafood dishes, and a delicious appetizer known as Sarde a Beccafico.

3. Venice

Venice famous for the Grand Canal and is often considered one of Italy’s most romantic cities. Besides the canals, it also contains tall church towers and historical palaces that date back hundreds of years.

A Venice tour isn’t complete without a gondola cruise along the renowned Grand Canal in the city of water. While in Venice, you should also consider adding other hot spots to your tour itinerary like St. Mark’s Square.

4. Tuscany

This famous rural region was even featured in the Seinfeld episode “The Maestro.” It’s world-famous for its incredible landscapes and historic cities like Florence. Tuscany is also known for its hilltop towns and green valleys.

If you’re a fan of Italian wines and cuisine, then Tuscany is also worth including in your Italian tour. This includes Chianti wines and local dishes like focaccia bread.

Another reason to tour Tuscany is to visit the art cities of Florence of Sienna. For example, the Accademia Gallery is the home of Michelangelo’s masterpiece “David.” Meanwhile, in Siena, you can visit medieval art museums.

5. Sardinia

This historical region’s sandy beaches are one of the most famous tourist attractions in Sardinia. It has several natural wonders that include beaches with crystal-clear waters. However, there are also several natural and human-made sites worth visiting in Sicily.

Sardinia is located off Central Italy’s coast. You can experience new destinations, culture, and cuisine that are unique to the Mediterranean country.

However, there are several other destinations to consider, including:

  • Ancient ruins
  • Grottoes
  • Local markets
  • Alghero city walls
  • Castles
  • Local markets
  • Mountains

It’s never too early to contact a tour agency offering Italy tours 2022. When creating your itinerary, you have many options, including Rome, Sicily, and Sardinia. Each region, city, or town you visit can provide a new experience as you visit natural wonders, ancient ruins, and taste the local cuisine. Selecting the right tour company can make your trip as enjoyable as a glass of fine Chianti Classico wine and a slice of Pizza Margherita.

10 Pro Tips for Traveling to London

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About 37.9 million tourists visited the UK in 2018. In 2017, tourism reached an all-time high with 39.2 million visitors. Before you head out and start traveling to London, though, it helps to have a plan.

Charting your adventure will ensure you make the most of your trip. Otherwise, you might unintentionally miss out on an amazing opportunity.

Keep reading to discover the 10 pro tips you need to consider before traveling to the UK. With these tips, you can plan an epic adventure you’ll remember for years to come. Start charting your course with these 10 London travel tips today!

  1. Chart Your Course

Before traveling to London, try to plan as much as possible. You’ll want to consider where you’re going, when you’re leaving, and who you’re going with.

Take the time to make a list of all the places you want to visit. What type of trip are you planning? Are you hoping to see the sights, or relax?

You can chart your course based on whether or not you want to:

  • Relax at a resort
  • Ride on a road trip
  • Explore cities
  • Venture the countryside
  • Shop in the city
  • See the sides

Who are you traveling with? How do they want to spend the course of the trip?

Decide whether you want to stay in London or travel throughout the UK. If you plan on leaving London, you’ll need to plan a way to get around. You’ll also need to consider different places you’ll explore.

Don’t forget to consider the duration of your trip. How long you plan on visiting London can determine where you’ll go and when.

If you’re planning with a group, confirm everyone’s travel days. Make sure everyone is on the same page.

You might want to consider hosting a meeting. Make a list of what everyone wants to do during the trip. Then, plot your course to maximize your time.

  1. Plan How You’ll Get Around

Don’t forget: London is big! There’s a lot you’ll want to see and do.

To make the most of your London travel plans, consider getting an Oyster Card. An Oyster Card is free (though you have to pay a deposit) and will allow you to travel the tube.

Getting an Oyster Card at the beginning of your trip will help minimize travel-related expenses. You can get an Oyster Card at most tube stations, already preloaded.

Otherwise, take the time to walk between tube stops. Keep your head up and take in the view around you.

When planning your travel to London, consider flying into one of the low-cost airports. For example, you can arrive at London Stansted or London Southend. The downside, however, is that you’ll need to travel from the airport to the city center.

Don’t forget to check out these Tailwins loyalty programs to get rewarded for your flight.

If you’re traveling with a student, as a couple, or with a senior, you might receive a discount rail or tube fare.

You can also rent a bike in London! Instead of relying on the tube, you can cycle around the city and take in the sights. Biking around London is a great way to learn your way around.

  1. Find Free Attractions

Americans spent about $782.4 billion on leisure trips in 2019. Before traveling to London, make a budget for your journey. Consider how much you’ll spend on travel, hotels, entertainment, and food.

If you don’t make a budget beforehand, however, you might not realize you’ve overspent until after your trip.

There are plenty of free attractions you might consider during your trip. For example, many of the museums are free. These museums include the:

  • Tate Modern
  • British Museum
  • Science Museum
  • Natural History Museum
  • National Portrait Gallery

Take in the city’s rich heritage and history by exploring one of these museums.

You can also visit Big Ben for free! Big Ben is the bell located in Queen Elizabeth II Tower.

  1. Schedule a Show

Consider watching a show in the west-end during your visit, too. The TKTS booth in Leicester Square sells unsold tickets for each day at a discount. You can take in the theatre at a discounted price and add a little entertainment to your trip.

  1. Take a Tour

Before traveling to London, consider scheduling a tour. There are plenty of hop-on-hop-off buses that will carry you around the city. If you want to save money, hop onto one of the red London buses and head upstairs.

From there, you can see sighs like the Houses of Parliament, Leicester Square, The London Eye, and Big Ben. Then, hop off and explore on foot!

  1. Try the Cuisine

Don’t forget to get a taste of London while you’re there! Consider trying one of London’s favorites such as fish and chips.

You can also visit the markets in London, including Borough Market, which is full of tasty treats. Don’t forget to visit the dessert stalls while you’re at it!

  1. Head Inside Buckingham Palace

During the summer, consider scheduling a tour of Buckingham Palace.

Make sure to purchase your tickets online before you travel to London. Otherwise, you might find all the tours booked! Touring the palace can give you a better sense of what it’s like to live like royalty.

  1. Carry an Umbrella

While you’re out and about on foot, don’t forget to take an umbrella with you. London’s weather is often unpredictable, so you never know when it might rain.

Otherwise, make sure to wear your favorite pair of comfy shoes as you start walking around the city.

  1. Notice Notting Hill

If you’re visiting London’s East-End, don’t forget to explore Nottingham Hill. Stop by for brunch before exploring the area on foot.

While it’s a great stop for the foodies in your group, Notting Hill is also known for its annual carnival, high-end shops, and Victorian townhouses!

  1. Meet the Locals

Take the time to learn from the locals, too. Londoners are friendly and ready to aid your travels. Ask them about local hot-spots or restaurant suggestions.

You never know where you might end up based on their recommendations!

Plan It Right: 10 Key Tips for Traveling to London

Ready to plan a trip you’ll never forget? Keep these 10 tips for traveling to London in mind. With these tips, you can chart a course for an amazing adventure!

Searching for more seasoned advice for your trip? Explore the Europe section of our blog for more helpful travel guides!

What to See in Florence: Florence, Italy Travel Guide

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View of Florence skyline from top view in Italy

The unrivaled charm of Florence, Italy attracts more than 15.4 million visitors each year, and this number only continues to grow as the city becomes a more popular travel destination.

Really, it’s no question as to why! People flock from all across the globe to immerse themselves in Florence’s world-renowned art, stunning architecture, and culture unlike anything else.

Are you planning a trip to Florence? It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the wide variety of sights and attractions available, so we’ve created a must-see guide for you!

Here’s what to see in Florence so that you can experience it all and get the most out of your time in this beautiful Renaissance city!

What to See in Florence

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a night out, you’ll be sure to find it in Florence. Keep reading to find out what would be an absolute sin to miss out on!

The Accademia Gallery

Deservedly referred to as the capital of arts, Florence is home to around 30 percent of the world’s most important and influential works of art. If you’re craving a taste of the city’s more creative side, then visiting the Accademia Gallery is a must!

Roam the hallways of this famous art museum and witness the sheer beauty of iconic art pieces like Michelangelo’s David and Madonna of the Sea.

Inside tip: touring Florence with The Roman Guy allows you to skip the line for Michelangelo’s David (among other things)! Not to mention, you’ll be able to explore the whole city with an expert guide if you book a tour.

The Duomo

If you’re looking at photos of Florence, you’ve probably seen the great cathedral glowing against the backdrop of an Italian sunset. That’s the Duomo, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and it’s widely recognized as one of the world’s most stunning religious monuments.

Take an afternoon stroll through the heart of the city and immerse yourself in some of Florence’s grandeur and 14th-century architecture as you tour the huge domes, steps, and hallways. You can’t miss it!

The Boboli Gardens

Wander along the manicured pathways of the Boboli Gardens and unwind with the serenity of green grass, glittering fountains, and stunning sculptures. This historical park once served as the first template for the “Italian Garden” and boasts some of the world’s greatest green architecture.

Guests can explore Italy’s most famous gardens on foot here and really enjoy the warm Florence weather as they stroll through blooming flowers, twisting vines.

Ponte Vecchio

Spend a charming afternoon taking a stroll across one of the oldest bridges in Italy. The Ponte Vecchio overlooks the famous river Arno and is a popular sight-seeing destination for all types of tourists!

When you’re done, you can wander off to the nearby shops and spend a few hours browsing the gifts fit for all budgets.

Nightlife

Once the sun goes down, some of Italy’s best nightlife is found right in Florence!

Depending on your taste, there are many different bars and clubs to choose from if you’re looking for some fun after dark.

Listen to a live DJ at Tenax, sit down at and meet locals at the Friends Pub or bust some moves at Space Electronic Discoteca — either way you’re guaranteed for an incredible night!

Start Exploring

With so much to fill your trip itinerary up, these are what to see in Florence, Italy. Add a few of these to your list and you’ll be in for an unforgettable vacation!

If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other articles about all things travel and entertainment!

Choosing the Right Hotel in London

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If you are planning a trip to the vibrant and exciting city of London, you can look forward to a host of attractions. This is a city that boasts a rich and long history, diverse culture, and some world-famous landmarks and attractions. One thing you can be certain of when you visit this city is that you will benefit from a full itinerary, so you can enjoy plenty of excitement and adventure.

Of course, you need to ensure you find the right accommodations for your stay in London, and this can be tricky. Not only do you have to consider the cost of hotels but also the location, as there are so many distinct areas of London. Fortunately, if you are visiting central London, there are plenty of hotels that offer access to all the main attractions within walking distance, so you may be better to choose a central hotel such as those in Piccadilly Circus or the West End.

What You Should Consider

There are online tools that allow you to do everything from an address lookup to a people search free, so you can use the address lookup facility to try and learn more about the area where you are considering staying. When it comes to choosing the right hotels, there are various factors you have to take into consideration. Some of the main ones include:

The Overall Cost of the Stay

The cost of London hotels can be high, but there are some deals to be had if you do your research. You should make sure you look at the overall cost of your stay rather than the average per night, as this will then enable you to see exactly how much you will pay for your hotel. Also, consider whether anything is included in the price, such as breakfast, free wifi, and other amenities and services. You can then determine whether the cost offers value for money.

The Location of the Hotel

There are many desirable places to stay in London, from the bustling West End and upmarket Mayfair to the political heart of the city in Westminster or the grungy music hub of Camden in North London. In order to choose the best location, work out which attractions and sights you are most interested in seeing, as you can then choose a hotel that offers easy access to them. However, no matter where you choose a hotel, you can reach attractions with ease via the bus and train services as well as on foot.

Facilities and Amenities

You also need to check the facilities and amenities in the hotel to ensure it is suited to your needs. If you plan on doing some work while in the city, check if there are business facilities and free wifi available. Also, look at facilities such as a fitness center, restaurants, bars, and other amenities that you are interested in.

Looking at these factors will make it easier to choose the ideal hotel for your needs when you visit London.