by admin | Sep 10, 2025 | beautiful places, cities and towns, tourist attractions, Travel, travel destinations
A vast network of canals, an ideal marina, beautiful sandy shores, and untouched natural landscapes — this Catalan city offers a perfect getaway for those who enjoy activities involving both water and air.
Featuring over 25 kilometers of waterways, Empuriabrava fully deserves its title as the ‘Venice of Spain.’ Haven’t come across it before? That’s probably because this town lies in Spain.
Costa Brava
Located only a short distance from the French border, it remains relatively unknown. However, it is considered one of the biggest marinas globally. This place offers an ideal setting for walking beside the water, going on a boat ride, or relaxing on the shore. Nonetheless, Empuriabrava provides much more than aquatic activities. With a historical center, a nature reserve, and even opportunities for skydiving, this Catalan village holds many delightful surprises.
Are you considering a visit to Catalonia? These pieces can assist you in arranging your journey:
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Bars with Must-Try Tapas in Barcelona, the Capital of Catalonia
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Catalonia: Modernist Masterpieces by Domènech i Montaner to Explore Near Barcelona
A Spanish location influenced by Port-Grimaud
During the 1960s, Marquis Antoni de Moixó i Güell drew inspiration from the village of Port-Grimaud to create an upscale resort featuring a marina constructed on previously wetland areas. Thus, in 1967, Empuriabrava came into existence. The coastal town consists of contemporary homes linked by waterways, where yachts move calmly alongside.
Situated close to the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Park, Empuriabrava provides numerous attractions that cater to both wildlife enthusiasts and families. Thanks to its pleasant weather—gentle winters and sunny summers—Empuriabrava is an ideal place to visit throughout the entire year. It serves as a perfect spot for tourists and locals alike.
Things to do in Empuriabrava
Sandy shores, natural beauty, excitement: Empuriabrava provides numerous activities for every age group and preference. These are seven must-try experiences when visiting this Catalan town:
Charter a vessel to discover the waterways
Sailing through the canals of Empuriabrava offers a must-see adventure. Whether you have a license or not, you can hire a compact electric vessel and explore the 25 kilometers of water channels within this living harbor.
It’s the best way to explore the town, discovering vibrant homes and their personal docks as you go (with a total of 5,000 docking spots available)!
Unwind at one of the shorelines
In addition to its waterways, Empuriabrava features beautiful beaches lining the Bay of Rosas. The most well-known one is Playa de Empuriabrava, situated directly in the heart of the town. This beach spans one kilometer and provides facilities such as shower stations, dining options, cafes, and recreational spaces for kids.
Located further to the north is Playa de la Rubina, which is more rugged and less developed, featuring an area designated for kitesurfers. For a more remote location, visit Playa Can Comes, situated inside the Aiguamolls Natural Park.
Walk around the historical center of Castelló d’Empúries
Only a ten-minute drive from Empuriabrava is the ancient center of Castelló d’Empúries. This medieval town is incredibly picturesque, featuring stone-paved roads and attractive small plazas. It is cherished for its genuine character and deep historical background.
As you’re there, take the time to see the Basilica of Santa Maria, which is the second-biggest religious structure along the Costa Brava. Just across from it, the Treasure Museum displays items made by goldsmiths and sacred artifacts. Lastly, make sure to check out the Carlina Tower, a 19th-century fortification.
Stroll across the natural sanctuary
Explore the wildlife area
Take a walk in the protected ecosystem
Move around the conservation zone
Browse the ecological preserve
Navigate through the green space
Walk within the environmental refuge
Discover the preserved landscape
Meander through the untouched terrain
Travel along the natural habitat
Just beside Empuriabrava is the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park, an extensive 5,000-acre sanctuary. This conservation zone consists of wetlands, ponds, sand dunes, and waterlogged grasslands. There are paths for walking and biking to discover its beauty, although it’s nearly impossible to see everything in a single trip.
It is also a haven for bird enthusiasts: over 300 species have been documented in this area. During different times of the year, you could observe storks, egrets, pink flamingos, and raptors. A tranquil place ideal for people looking to escape the noise of city life.
Skydiving
Adrenaline lover? Empuriabrava houses one of the globe’s top skydiving facilities:
Skydive Empuriabrava
. The center hosts more than 100,000 jumps annually, attracting both experienced experts and total newcomers.
No matter if you’re flying alone or with another person, the scenery over the Costa Brava from above is truly breathtaking.
Go to the Butterfly Park in Empuriabrava
Near the nature reserve,
the Butterfly Park Empuriabrava
features a 2,000 square meter tropical indoor garden. A large number of butterflies, together with various other rare creatures like tropical birds, iguanas, tortoises, and even fruit bats, move around without restriction inside.
It serves as an ideal getaway for entomology enthusiasts, kids, and those looking for peace and a different environment.
Attend the Tierra de Trovadores Medieval Festival
Finally, yet certainly not insignificantly:
the Terra de Trobadors
Festivity held in Castelló d’Empúries. Each September, the town immerses itself in its medieval history through an engaging celebration.
Over multiple days, the streets become a lively medieval town, featuring street shows, knightly competitions, dressed-up craftsmen, and traditional food from the era. It offers an enjoyable and distinctive method of discovering the area’s deep history.
by admin | Sep 9, 2025 | air travel, airline industry, flights, flying, southwest airlines
Southwest Airlines is set to introduce a policy where passengers unable to fit between the armrests of their assigned seat must purchase an additional one ahead of time, as part of several new adjustments the airline has implemented recently.
The updated regulation will take place on January 27, the very day Southwest begins allocating seats — marking a major change from its former approach where travelers could choose their own seating upon boarding.
At present, customers who are larger-sized may choose to purchase an additional seat ahead of time, with the possibility of receiving a reimbursement afterward, or they might ask for a complimentary second seat upon arrival at the airport. With the airline’s updated regulation, refunds remain feasible but are not assured anymore.
On Monday, Southwest issued a statement indicating that it is revising certain policies ahead of implementing assigned seating in the coming year.
“To save space, we are informing [customers] who have previously utilized the additional seat policy that they need to buy it when making their reservation,” the statement mentioned.
Southwest moves away from its previous image
Southwest distances itself from its former persona
Southwest departs from its traditional brand
Southwest changes course from its past image
Southwest alters its long-standing reputation
Southwest steps back from its original character
Southwest diverges from its historical identity
Southwest transitions from its established self-image
It signifies the most recent shift at Southwest, which was previously recognized for allowing travelers to choose their own seating once they boarded the aircraft, as well as offering complimentary baggage allowance, a practice that concluded in May. These benefits played a crucial role in setting it apart.
budget carrier
from its rivals.
Southwest states that it will continue to issue a refund for a second ticket under its updated policy regarding additional seat selection, provided the flight has not reached full capacity when departing, and both of the traveler’s tickets were bought within the same fare category. The passenger must also make the request.
refund
no later than 90 days after the flight.
Under the updated regulation, travelers requiring an additional seat must acquire one prior to their journey; otherwise, they’ll have to obtain it upon arrival at the airport. Should the aircraft be fully booked, such passengers will be transferred to another available flight.
Budget airlines facing challenges in Europe
Southwest’s decision follows a trend where low-cost carriers around the globe are reconsidering—or in certain instances, compelled to reassess—their business strategies.
In Europe, authorities have focused on clarity and
passenger rights
In June, the European Union approved a
proposal
this would allow travelers to carry both a handbag and a small suitcase weighing no more than seven kilograms at no additional cost.
Matteo Ricci, who serves as vice-chair of the EU Committee for Transport and Tourism and is the main supporter of the legislation, described the amendment as a move toward a “more equitable and effective system.”
This regulation is an element of a larger initiative by Brussels aimed at reducing confusion associated with air travel, including mandating airlines to display the full price of a trip sooner during the reservation procedure and enhancing guidelines for passenger compensation.
However, experts have warned that these updated safeguards might prompt airlines to increase ticket prices through alternative methods as businesses seek out new income streams.
Economy class seating, concealed charges, and benefits for families
This tension has already inspired several innovative trials and approaches.
Even though their upcoming release was denied, early versions of what were called upright seating options became popular on social media this year, causing negative reactions online.
Hidden fees
still remains a major issue for travelers, as expenses add up for things like credit card transactions and reservations made in groups.
According to a study from Tradingpedia released this year, although budget airlines promote attractive pricing, the actual cost can be significantly more complex. Charges related to choosing seats, luggage, and modifying names on reservations are revealed incrementally throughout the reservation process instead of being included in the initial advertised price.
Not every change harms travelers, however.
The UK-based airline Jet2 has recently stated that infants below the age of two can travel at no cost, regardless of whether they’re part of a holiday package or have purchased just a flight ticket. Additionally, the carrier eliminated extra charges for strollers, child safety seats, and other baby essentials when they are checked into the aircraft’s cargo area.
Travelers express worries regarding convenience and expenses
With airlines updating their rules, travelers are also expressing their thoughts on how these modifications affect them.
comfort
and fairness.
Jason Vaughn, a travel agent based in Orlando, shares theme park evaluations and traveling advice tailored for larger individuals through social media platforms and his site, Fat Travel Tested, mentioned that Southwest’s new policy is expected to affect travelers across various body types.
He stated that Southwest’s present policy has contributed to a more pleasant travel experience for larger travelers, while also guaranteeing every passenger sufficient seating area.
“I believe this new regulation will negatively impact the overall flying experience,” he stated.
Vaughn referred to the shift as yet another disappointment for long-time Southwest customers such as himself, comparing it to the recent emblem update at U.S. eatery Cracker Barrel, which has upset certain patrons of the establishment.
They no longer know who their customers are,” he remarked about the airline. “They’ve lost all sense of identity.
The carrier has faced difficulties lately and is experiencing pressure from active shareholders to increase…
profits
revenue. It also mentioned that last year it planned to impose additional fees on passengers seeking more legroom and provide overnight flights.
by admin | Sep 7, 2025 | air travel, airport security, everyday life tips and hacks, security, Travel
Travelers who have never been through an airport security line might find it intimidating, as it often involves lengthy lines and unpredictable luggage inspections—making it seem like a stressful experience.
However, a shrewd traveler, 33-year-old Elaine Poon, has shared an obscure tip that might assist other travelers in passing through quickly within under a minute.
She frequently posts advice on traveling around the world affordably through her social media account, @travelainewithme.
In a
TikTok
A video that garnered 360,000 views shows Elaine performing her stunt at Stansted Airport.
The camera captures the traveler walking toward the security checkpoints while she remarks: “When you go through security, most people enter this way.”
She subsequently records the departure board, which features electronic gates below for scanning tickets.
“Alternatively, take a right and proceed forward,” Elaine says, adjusting the camera to reveal a quick passage indicator.
She states: “Many believe this is exclusively for those on the fast track, so nobody visits this area.”
But as you can observe, this entire central part is open for us to pass through.
This is insane—take a look at the line over there.
The footage captures a long queue of individuals awaiting their turn at the security checkpoints, with Elaine commenting, “We simply bypass everything and head directly to the front.”
She added a caption to her video: “If you’re in London and traveling with Ryanair, most of the time it will be from Stansted Airport.”
The time of day doesn’t matter (the footage was taken at 5 am); it’s probably going to be crowded anyway.
Next time you visit, avoid the lengthy lines and go directly to the right side.
Elaine’s video drew numerous remarks from fellow travelers keen to attempt the technique.
A user wrote: “I’ve only passed through Stansted once; I’ll surely apply this trick the next time I travel. Thanks!!”
Is this really happening?!??? The enthusiastic traveler questioned.
“I’m attending this year. I have to inform my mom about these tricks,” another person said.
One individual tested the exploit and remarked: “Thanks, I went through and it was extremely fast, with absolutely no line.”
“I don’t understand why people call this a hack; individuals have been doing it for years,” added another experienced traveler.
Read more
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Can this popular TikTok technique change how we travel on low-cost airlines? Discover the student who easily tricked Ryanair employees!
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by admin | Sep 7, 2025 | cruises, entertainment, Travel, travel destinations, travel recommendations
If there
One place that travelers frequently visit on a cruise.
, it’s the Caribbean.
However, for Ally Kerr, from
California
who has performed as a vocalist and performer on over 100 cruise ships, claims it’s exaggerated.
Don’t restrict your cruising adventure solely to the Caribbean,” said the 28-year-old cruise performer to The Independent. “Once you do, everything tends to seem similar. It’s basically a collection of beaches that all start looking alike over time.
And if that’s your preference, great – but for me, cruising means being able to experience special adventures.
Actually, Ally suggests taking a cruise to a location nearer to home rather than the Caribbean, should you be looking for similar golden sand beaches and clear blue waters, along with an abundance of history and cultural experiences.
“My initial time aboard a cruise in the Mediterranean left me completely indulged,” she remarked.
It was amazing. I visited numerous countries along the Mediterranean coastline, including France, Spain, Croatia, Montenegro, Israel, Greece… it turned out to be an extraordinary adventure.
And each location you visit is completely distinct.
The culture varies greatly, as do the attractions—there’s some coastline, some urban areas, and some historical sites. It’s very varied and engaging.
Also, the Caribbean might have some issues, but I never felt insecure in the Mediterranean.
Another continent that Alley suggests visiting via cruise is Asia, after enjoying an unforgettable journey through Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.
With experience performing aboard cruise ships, such as those operated by Royal Caribbean International, for many years, Alley now frequently offers insider advice on her
YouTube
channel,
@wanderlustalley
.
In a recent clip,
She cautioned travelers about the concealed dangers lurking ahead.
which might spoil their entire experience.
As stated by an experienced cruise employee, embarkation day, sometimes referred to as check-in day, may seem hectic due to extended queues of passengers waiting to step aboard.
Certain travelers are concerned about reserving well-known experiences, dining spots, and extra services – which frequently results in rush purchasing and all options being unavailable.
Alley stated: “On the day of boarding, it’s completely chaotic. If”
You can bypass the wait for boarding day and complete it ahead of time, making your life significantly simpler.
She mentioned that she frequently observed new cruise passengers feeling disappointed when they discovered there were no more activities available for booking.
Alley said: “Those who haven’t gone cruising before usually board the ship and then, by the end of the day, they find themselves saying, ‘Oh, everything’s booked up.'”
A number of items have restricted availability.
Fortunately, travelers aboard cruises frequently discover more affordable and broader options for land tours by arranging them directly with regional tour companies at every port of call, instead of depending only on the ship’s own excursion offerings.
Solo trips can also offer a more genuine and engaging encounter through local guides and enterprises.
Although ship-sponsored tours provide ease and reassurance—particularly for those new to cruising—they tend to be costly, resulting in travelers spending more money shortly after departing the port.
Read more
by admin | Sep 6, 2025 | business, hotels, tourist attractions, tourists, volcanoes
Several hotels situated in regions designated for the extension of Volcanoes National Park have not yet obtained formal information regarding their future status — whether they will continue operations there or require moving — nor do they understand how they will function after this development is completed, according to recent reports. Additionally, read: Details on the $255m volcano park expansion initiative.
The ambiguity became apparent during an advisory session held by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) with travel industry participants on Wednesday, August 20th, when hotel operator Paul Muvunyi voiced worries concerning the impact of the park’s growth on lodging services. It is believed that certain establishments falling within or close to these new borders consist of Bisate Lodge, Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, and Singita Kwitonda Lodge.
Muvunyi, who runs Mountain Gorilla View Lodge, stated portions of his establishment lie within the planned enlargement zone. He asked about potential effects on visitors and employees should the lodge fall entirely inside the park. “Our knowledge comes solely through informal channels,” he mentioned to The New Times. “Would our operation take place amidst gorillas? Trekking passes amount to $1,500 – what does this imply for those traveling back and forth? Would personnel also be obligated to cover such costs?”
Manzi Kayihura, CEO of Wilderness Rwanda, proprietor of Bisate Lodge, expressed comparable apprehensions, emphasizing that the RDB hasn’t clearly defined subsequent actions. “We’re waiting to find out,” he remarked, cautioning that shifting locations could incur substantial expenses.
In response to these anxieties, Irene Murerwa, Head of Tourism at RDB, affirmed the plan doesn’t aim to move enterprises. “Businesses won’t be affected; fewer than five may potentially experience changes,” she explained. Regarding possible payment obligations for visiting tourists due to being enclosed by the park, Murerwa rejected this idea saying, “This situation isn’t applicable. Gorillas aren’t entering structures. These creatures possess intelligence and recognize their environment.”
Why extend the park?
With a budget reaching up to $255 million (approximately Rwf367 billion), the enhancement seeks to enhance preservation initiatives, biological diversity, and local strength. An essential objective involves increasing living space for the rising number of critically threatened mountain gorillas along with additional fauna species. By 2028, this endeavor intends to increase the size of the reserve beyond 37 km² (or 3,700 ha). In addition, populations of mountain gorillas across the Virunga Massif increased from around 880 individuals in 2012 to above 1,063 currently, primarily because of protection measures combined with collaborative relationships involving communities. This massif includes parts of both Rwandan Volcanoes National Park as well as Congolese Virunga National Park plus Ugandan Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. For quite some time, Rwanda’s natural preserve encountered difficulties associated with restricted and scattered territory, something that this augmentation plans to resolve.
Lodging elsewhere
While accommodations haven’t typically existed directly inside Volcanoes National Park, several different reserves throughout Rwanda contain prominent tourist sites. Akagera Game Lodge, overseen by the Mantis Group, exists deep within Akagera National Park adhering strictly controlled access regulations including gate closure times before 6 p.m. Similarly, One & Only Nyungwe House based in Nyungwe Forest and Gishwati Lodge found within Gishwati-Mukura Natural Reserve manage themselves effectively following specific environmental standards. Now poised for considerable enhancements, accommodation providers nearby look forward towards gaining clear guidance determining if they’ll follow analogous procedures or risk needing to change location altogether.
Supplied by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
