oleh admin | Sep 4, 2025 | tourist attractions, tourists, Travel, travel destinations, travel recommendations
Every year, millions travel to Turkey for their summer vacations, seeking beautiful beaches, affordable costs, and exceptional food.
However, there are alternative locations that provide comparable opulence at a price lower than half of a standard journey to a popular European destination.
According to
Eurochange
Holidays in well-known destinations across Turkey—such as Antalya and Bodrum—are experiencing significant price hikes along with a decrease in visitors.
Skyscanner offers round-trip flights from
London
The travel money firm announced deals to Bodrum in August, with prices beginning at £285 per adult.
A week-long stay at a four-star fully inclusive hotel for a family of four might amount to £5,755.
Renowned travel specialist Laura Evans-Fisk has shared three hidden gem destinations ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking an international getaway.
She mentioned: “There are still several excellent options for families seeking sunny conditions, stunning coastlines, and an experience of regional traditions without spending too much.”
Among Laura’s recommendations is Albania, known for its “breathtaking shorelines and Mediterranean appeal.”
Travelers can secure round-trip flights from London to Tirana in August for £194 per adult, as reported by Eurochange.
A vacation for a family of four lasting seven nights at a four-star fully inclusive hotel may cost as low as £2,713.
“Albania has subtly emerged as one of the most thrilling and budget-friendly vacation spots in Europe,” Laura mentions.
She says, “It provides several similar attractions to Turkey: pristine water, robust food, historical sites, and friendly service, yet without the throngs of people or high costs.”
A travel specialist raves about Albania’s coastline, extending from Vlore to Sarande, highlighting ‘stunning beaches featuring sapphire-colored waters, striking cliffs, and picturesque seaside villages’.
Laura also suggests checking out Ksamil and Dhermi, which she claims offer strong competition to Bodrum and Antalya.
Albanian cuisine is also designed to make an impression, featuring a variety of fresh fish, grilled meats, and regional cheeses.
“Meals tend to be reasonably priced and plentiful, particularly at locally-owned eateries where service is considered an important part of their identity,” Laura says.
Regarding locations to explore in order to experience Albania’s heritage and past, Berat is a city recognized by UNESCO, whereas Butrint features remnants from ancient Rome.
“You can still experience the blend of Ottoman, Greek, and Roman influences in the buildings, cuisine, and customs, without dealing with large groups of visitors,” said the travel specialist.
She says, “Another big attraction is its remarkably affordable nature. Lodging, vehicle rental, and dining out are significantly less expensive compared to Turkey, and because Albania doesn’t belong to the Eurozone, your currency stretches farther.”
Another location worth considering is Bulgaria, which provides comparable sights to Turkey but for much less money.
Flights back from London to Burgas in August cost £253 per adult, whereas a fully inclusive vacation for a group of four may be secured for £2,191.
Boasting numerous seaside destinations, Bulgaria provides an equally welcoming environment for families, along with a blend of cultural experiences and beachfront scenery similar to what Turkey offers.
“Many people ignore the Bulgarian coastline along the Black Sea, yet it provides similar advantages to Turkey’s coastal areas in the Mediterranean,” Laura mentions.
Resorts such as Sunny Beach, Nessebar, and Sozopol offer sand shores, tranquil warm seas, and numerous children-friendly attractions, yet they typically cost half as much as well-known Turkish destinations like Marmaris or Bodrum, particularly during school breaks.
Regarding the cuisine, there are many parallels with Turkish cooking, including grilled meats, fresh salads, and yogurt-based sauces.
“Meals outside won’t significantly affect your vacation money, and many eateries accommodate children and families well,” Laura adds.
Additionally, Bulgaria stands out as one of the most cost-effective places in Europe for all-inclusive vacations. Family-friendly resorts cater specifically to children, providing facilities such as swimming pools, youth clubs, recreational activities, and convenient access to the beach.
You receive the complete service you would anticipate in Turkey, yet at a lower cost.
An alternative choice for families seeking an affordable getaway is northern Morocco.
Flights from London to Tangier in August start at £299 per adult, with a fully inclusive vacation for a family of four available for as low as £2,509.
Laura says, “If you’re looking for the colors, culture, and coastal beauty of Turkey but prefer something slightly less well-known, Northern Morocco provides an excellent option filled with character and good value.”
It makes an excellent choice for families seeking sunshine, yet offers a little something different.
A travel specialist suggests visiting northern coastal regions such as Tangier, Asilah, and Tetouan, which all offer a mix of Mediterranean seaside atmosphere combined with a North African influence.
“Imagine white-painted villages, relaxed coastal walkways, and extended golden sand shores ideal for children,” Laura exclaims.
It’s not as advanced as Turkey’s lively seaside destinations, resulting in smaller groups of visitors and a more genuine atmosphere, yet still maintaining the key elements for a family vacation.
She adds: ‘
Culture enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate here. Tangier used to be a favorite spot for artists and authors, and it presents a blend of Moroccan, Spanish, and French elements evident in its buildings, cuisine, and bazaars.
The historic centers of Tetouan and Chefchaouen offer secure, pedestrian-friendly environments rich in heritage, resembling the alleys of Istanbul yet without the same level of congestion.
Moroccan food is also sure to please, offering dishes like grilled fish, couscous, and freshly baked bread that often appear on restaurant menus.
It also won’t be expensive, “Dining out is budget-friendly and suitable for families, featuring gentle seasonings and quality ingredients,” Laura says.
Travel expenses and lodging tend to be more affordable compared to Turkey, with numerous charming places to stay available.
‘She added, flights to Tangier from the UK are also rising, as budget airlines have made travel easier than before.’
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oleh admin | Sep 4, 2025 | beautiful places, italy, tourist attractions, travel destinations, travel in italy
Boasting clear blue waters and dense greenery, the island of Ponza located between Rome and Naples provides a
dolce vita
Experience. Celebrated for its elegance since ancient times, it is a place that continues to remain mostly off the beaten path for tourists.
Top activities in Ponza
From cove to cove
Located within the group of islands known as the Pontine Archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea near the shores of Lazio, Ponza is
a small piece of territory owned by Italy
Upon arriving at Porto di Ponza, a charming small harbor located in the southeastern area of the island, you soon realize that the primary focus here is the beach.
The ideal way to explore Ponza’s most stunning bays is to rent a boat or use one of the water taxi services. Many spots are available for stops; the island offers numerous beaches, grottos, and natural swimming areas where you can swim freely.
Diving into the Pilato Caves
Exploring the Pilato Caves underwater
Underwater exploration of the Pilato Cave system
The caves of Pilato for cave divers
Submerged adventures in the Pilato Caves
Investigating the Pilato Caverns beneath the surface
Pilato Caves: an underground diving destination
Delving into the depths of the Pilato Caves
Scuba diving within the Pilato Cave complex
Discovering the submerged world of the Pilato Caves
Among the most intriguing locations on the island of Ponza is the Grotte di Pilato area, which consists of man-made passages constructed by the Romans during the first century BCE. Locals believe this place served as an enclosure for raising conger eels. Today, it stands as a remarkable destination.
for enthusiasts of scuba diving
.
Grotte di Pilato
Via Madonna
04027 Ponza
+39 077 180 8349
viviponza.com
Enjoy breathtaking landscapes
Encircled by steep rock formations overlooking the ocean, the island of Ponza features numerous vantage points providing stunning panoramic views. Particular attention should be paid to Mounts Pagliaro and Guardia, as well as the Maria Rosa Cliffs. Additionally, a trip to the nearby island of Palmarola to the west of Ponza presents yet another chance to explore remarkable landscapes.
Top stunning shorelines of Ponza
It’s unavoidable to get lost within oneself
the charm of Ponza’s bays and shores
One of the best options is Cala Fonte, where the shallow waters make it ideal for families, alongside Cala Inferno and Cala Felce, accessible by boat. At Punta Incenso, the rugged shoreline of Cala Gaetano and the renowned Chiaia di Luna (“moonlight”) Beach, surrounded by tall cliffs, are essential visits. Lastly, don’t overlook the natural swimming pool located on the western part of Ponza near Cala Feola Beach.
Top places to dine and stay in Ponza: some preferred hotels and eateries
Bar Tripoli
The initial destination for locals on the island of Ponza, Bar Tripoli overlooks the harbor. Gather there in the early hours.
to sip a
caffè espresso
At the close of the day, Fieno, the regional wine, should not be missed (in reasonable amounts).
Piazza Carlo Pisacane
04027 Ponza
www.facebook.com
Da Enzo al Frontone
Only reachable via the sea, which gives it the moniker “Solo a Vela” (“only by sail”), this
trattoria
lies in the charming Cala di Frontone. Enzo leads his guests from the harbor
to sample the daily fish special
beside the beach.
Cala Frontone
04027 Ponza
+39 339 206 0408
La Marina Casa Feola
Situated on Casa Feola Beach, this lovely seaside eatery greets visitors during the daytime throughout the summer season. Centered around ocean-inspired dishes, the menu features items like lobster pasta, grilled fish, and seafood broth. Just a short distance away lies a cove boasting crystal-clear blue water.
Spiaggia Cala Feola
04027 Ponza
+39 338 648 6110
Bar Gelateria Panoramica
This gelato parlor located at the harbor of Ponza is the spot to visit.
for delicious
gelati
and fruity sorbets.
Via Dante Alighieri 28
04027 Ponza
Piccolo Hotel Luisa
This cozy, independently owned hotel features stylishly designed rooms and is conveniently situated close to the harbor, making it an ideal choice for a visit to the island of Ponza.
Via Chiaia di Luna
04027 Ponza
+39 077 180 128
www.piccolohoteluisa.it
Practical info
What is the optimal period to go to Ponza?
Ponza is best visited during Indian summer: tourists have left for the season, yet the weather remains pleasant.
For how many days should one remain on the island of Ponza?
Just a couple of days are sufficient to explore the island of Ponza, although you might wish to extend your visit!
Transportation on the island of Ponza
Ponza Island isn’t large, with its primary road passing near all key attractions. A mini-bus system facilitates movement across the island. Alternatively, renting a car or motorcycle offers greater flexibility.
oleh admin | Sep 3, 2025 | cruises, europe, Travel, travel destinations, travel in europe
-
Nico Berg, ex-captain of AIDA Cruises, mentions that the location “feels like home”
A retired cruise line commander has revealed what he considers one of the top places to explore in Europe — and it turns out to be an obscure treasure rarely visited by large groups of travelers.
Having spent over two decades navigating the seas aboard both cruise and freight vessels, Captain Nico Berg has explored nearly all parts of the globe—yet one location continues to stand out in his memory.
He considers
Germany
‘Hamburg is a top destination in Europe, particularly for travelers seeking an alternative to more popular spots like Rome or Paris.’
In an interview with
Wine Traveler
The former captain of AIDA Cruises, which was previously owned by Germans, stated that nothing surpasses traveling along the Elbe at dawn and arriving at Hamburg Harbor.
The river Elbe, which passes through the Czech Republic and Germany on its way to the North Sea, was one of Nico’s preferred paths.
Spanning 680 miles, the river flows through mountainous regions, rural landscapes, and ultimately reaches the center of Hamburg — an experience he describes as unforgettably remarkable.
He mentioned the “remarkable” scenery as the vessel moored ahead of the harbor piers’ bend, with the sunrise appearing behind the iconic Hamburg Michel church.
Nico said: “Even though I am at home everywhere around the globe as a sailor, Hamburg always makes me feel like I’m returning home. As our vessel departs from Hamburg Harbor, visitors line up along the Elbe River and enthusiastically wave at us.”
The ex-captain suggests the Speicherstadt, also known as the “City of Warehouses,” for newcomers.
This vast network of canals and brick-built storage facilities used to be a duty-free trading region, and is currently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Speicherstadt covers an area of 260,000 square meters, holding the title of the biggest storage facility globally.
For a close-up perspective, the ideal approach is to board a tiny boat and navigate the network of tight canals.
Nowadays, Speicherstadt functions as a lively center, featuring various museums, spice stores, and an extensive miniature train exhibition.
Interestingly, the area continues to manage coffee, cocoa, and electronics exactly as it did over 100 years ago.
Nico also suggests visiting Hamburg’s unusual and historical St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel, which was inaugurated in 1911, located under the river and accessible for walkers and bicyclists.
He additionally encourages guests to explore the city’s famous Fish Market, operational every Sunday morning since 1703. Those who get up early will find a variety of offerings including live performances and freshly caught sea food.
Meanwhile, a
A woman who has spent 3,000 nights traveling across the seas has shared the places that all cruise travelers should consider visiting and sailing toward.
.
Joy Howe, 78, hailing from Malvern in Worcestershire, mentions that her daughter encouraged her to take her initial seaside vacation after losing her husband, Michael, when she was only 49—and she has been enjoying them ever since.
Having cautiously embarked on her initial cruise 27 years back, she quickly adjusted to life at sea and mentions that by the midpoint of her first journey, she had already reserved her next adventure—and has since traveled across six continents and 58 nations.
A travel specialist mentions that her longest journey was an extensive global tour which included visits to Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, India, and Malaysia.
Read more
oleh admin | Sep 3, 2025 | lakes, outdoor activities, tourist attractions, Travel, travel destinations
While exploring the United States, certain lakes capture attention due to their remarkable beauty and distinct features. Mountains, folklore, and the vastness of the natural world—these six water treasures provide memorable escapes amidst stunning scenery.
From the deep azure lake nestled within a volcanic crater to the pristine waters surrounded by ancient woodlands, the lakes across America hold stories that are both diverse and breathtaking. Every location offers an blend of adventure, personal exploration, and cultural insight.
No matter whether your interest lies in hiking, sailing, exploring new things, or just enjoying a panoramic glimpse of the landscape, these six lakes offer something suitable for all, providing a compact representation of the…
extraordinary natural attractions of the United States
.
Thinking about traveling to America?
Here are some
articles
to
assist you in preparing for your
stay
:
-
This body of water holds the title of being the deepest in the U.S., with scenery that takes your breath away.
-
8 must-see desert cities to explore in the United States at least once
-
Located on the edge of Los Angeles, this library-museum features one of the most impressive botanical gardens in the country.
The six lakes worth exploring in America
Lake Crater, Oregon: the nation’s most profound caldera lake
Created approximately 8,000 years back within the center of a dormant volcano, Crater Lake offers a stunning and mesmerizing view. Clear and pristine, it displays a wide range of the most intense blue-green hues found in any U.S. lake.
Accessible via the
panoramic road
Surrounding the caldera, the lake offers excellent opportunities for walking along exciting mountain peaks, sailing on pristine waters, and enjoying starry nights beneath an open sky. With a depth of nearly 600 meters, Crater Lake stands as one of the most enigmatic and grand lakes in America.
Lake Tahoe, located in California and Nevada: a pristine high-altitude lake situated beneath the Sierra Nevada mountains.
North America’s biggest alpine lake is an enchanting location known for its remarkably clear water, which remains visible even at depths reaching 20 meters. Along its coastline, you’ll find public beaches, cycling trails, elegant lodges, and winter sports facilities.
The breathtaking vistas from Tahoe City to Emerald Bay showcase snowy mountain peaks mirrored perfectly in the lake, offering an enduring majestic display. During the summer months, activities like swimming, boating, or trekking are available; in winter, skiing across glacial areas provides some of the most authentic experiences.
The Great Lake of Superior, spanning Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin: the American inland ocean
The biggest freshwater lake in the globe resembles an infinite ocean. Its untamed coastlines host sandstone rock formations, enigmatic islands, and also submerged caverns.
At Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Park, waterfalls cascade into the lake through natural arches, while the Apostle Islands archipelago provides opportunities for kayaking, hiking through forests, and exploring caves.
No matter where you travel, the profound quietness and wild landscape create an impressive, rocky symphony.
Flathead Lake, located in Montana: a bright body of water nestled within the Rocky Mountains
Just a short distance from Glacier National Park, this massive lake—the biggest naturally occurring freshwater source west of the Mississippi—is surrounded by mountain views, cherry farms, and peaceful shorelines.
Underneath a remarkably mild sun, you can head out to fish, paddle in a canoe, or take a rest in one of its numerous hidden bays. Polson and Bigfork, two charming towns located along its coastline, highlight local cuisine and provide evening boat tours.
Lake Champlain, located in Vermont and New York: the historical heart of the northeastern region
A
natural border with Canada
This tranquil lake covers an area of over 500 square kilometers and is surrounded by remarkable wooded scenery. Historical remnants from the American Revolution can be found along the shoreline, while more than 300 submerged shipwrecks attract both recreational divers and historians.
Small communities such as North Hero, South Hero, and Burlington provide artisanal microbreweries, cycling trails, and comfortable lodging options.
Lake George, located in New York State: the monarch of the Adirondack region
Frequently referred to as the king of American lakes, this place will spark your creativity through its pristine waters, 170 islands, and invigorating summer vibe. Spanning 51 kilometers, the lake boasts picturesque towns, upscale resorts, and a storied history dating back to the Gilded Age—the prosperous era that came after the
Civil War
– a clear impact visible in the luxurious coastal homes.
Iconic steamships, aquatic recreation, angling, and trekking offer a varied array of pastimes, all while retaining a distinctive post-season allure.
oleh admin | Sep 3, 2025 | entertainment, malaysia, singapore, tourists, Travel
Tourists coming from Singapore were at the top of the list for the highest number of international travelers visiting Johor, Malaysia’s second-largest state, making up almost 78%.
Over 11 million of Johor’s total 14 million international visitors from January to June 2025 were Singaporean nationals.
The Straits Times
reported, referencing K. Raven Kumar, chairman of the Johor Unity, Culture and Heritage Committee.
In addition to Singapore, the country is also attracting numerous tourists from Indonesia, China, India, the Philippines, South Korea, and various European nations.
Raven noted that this represented an optimistic and motivating development for the state government and local tourism sector, as they prepare for the Visit Johor Year 2026 initiative.
Initiatives are also being implemented to highlight smaller towns within Johor’s ten regions as possible tourist spots for both international and local visitors,
The Star
reported.
He further mentioned that the government plans to draw 12 million visitors to Johor in 2026 through improvements of different tourist attractions and hosting events aimed at reinforcing the state’s status as a major travel hotspot.
Johor is recognized as Malaysia’s second-largest state in terms of population, following Selangor. The region features well-known travel spots including Legoland Malaysia, cultural landmarks such as the Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque and the Johor Bahru Old Chinese Temple, as well as natural sights like Desaru Beach and the Kota Tinggi Firefly Park.
The Malaysian Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, stated that 10.3 million visitors from Singapore traveled to Malaysia between January and June, marking an increase of 22.5% over the same timeframe in 2024.
