oleh admin | Mar 12, 2025 | adventure travel, Travel, travel advice, travel destinations, vacations
Solo travel has soared in popularity over the last decade, and it’s continuing to be a building trend in 2025 as holidaymakers seek trips that aid self-reflection and individual well-being.
The American Express 2024 Global Travel Trends Report found that 76 per cent of Millennials and Gen-Z planned on taking a solo trip in 2024.
66 percent of participants mentioned ‘self-love and indulging in self-care’ as motivations for taking solo trips.
Airbnb’s spring trends report for 2025 found a 90 per cent growth in
solo travel
Searches indicate this trend, with Riviera Travel noting at a recent conference that solo travelers constitute one of the quickest-expanding groups reserving river cruises.
But despite being an increasingly important group within the tourism industry, solo travellers still have to contend with challenges like package holiday supplements and safety concerns.
Here’s how you can avoid extra charges for travelling alone and the top destinations for 2025.
How solo travellers can avoid package holiday supplements
Although package holidays frequently appear with a ‘cost per person’ figure, such offers typically assume at least two individuals will be partaking together as one reservation.
Solo travellers
can end up paying over €2,000 extra for their holiday package — frequently referred to as the ‘single supplement’ charge.
Specialists from the travel booking organization
Travel Republic
suggest looking specifically for travel packages designed for solo travelers via their website.
Other travel agencies have likewise started promoting journeys to
single adventurers
including TUI, Intrepid, and Jet2holidays.
Riviera Travel provides exclusive journeys for individuals along the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, and Douro rivers without an additional charge.
What are the best European destinations for solo travel in 2025?
Travel Republic additionally suggests that vacationers peruse evaluations and investigate how welcoming a location is for solo travelers.
To help you select your ideal destination, the high-end personalized tour company Kensington published a report earlier this year highlighting the top choices.
solo travel spots
in 2025.
Among more common destinations for those travelling on their own like Thailand and Australia, four European countries made the top 10. Second place in the ranking went to Italy for its cultural riches and culinary prowess.
“Travelling solo here isn’t lonely – it’s liberating,” the company writes. “Every museum, piazza, and trattoria offers a reason to explore deeper.”
Spain came in seventh spot, described as “the solo traveller’s playground”.
“Travelling Spain means living like a local – late-night dinners, street festivals, and endless sangria,” Kensignton writes. “Tourism in Spain blends history with celebration, making it a top destination for solo explorers in 2025.”
Numbering eighth, Iceland “stands as an idyllic getaway for individuals traveling alone who cherish unspoiled natural beauty and enigmatic vistas,” and it’s also considered the top choice for solitary adventurers.
destination
For photographers and intrepid adventurers.”
In ninth position is France, where individual travelers can savor the vineyards of Bordeaux, embark on river tours in the Loire Valley, or hit the slopes in the Alps.
oleh admin | Mar 10, 2025 | expenses, tax policy and law, taxes, tourists, Travel
From Venice to Barcelona, popular tourist spots are overwhelming visitors. However, do these measures truly help in decreasing overtourism, and where exactly does this revenue end up?
Despite the high tourist taxes, 39-year-old Susanne Meier has visited the Himalayan nation of Bhutan twice. Bhutan actually imposes the globe’s highest tourist tax, referred to as the “Sustainable Development Fee,” which amounts to $100 (€95) per person per day. This substantial fee deters many potential visitors.
tourism tax
is added to the extra travel expenses, including a driver and guide, typically organized by tour operators for an additional fee.
“People there prefer sustainable tourism over inexpensive tourism,” explains Meier, who is employed by Bhutan Travel located in Moosburg, Bavaria. She mentions that her clients are content with paying the additional taxes once they realize the beneficial impact it has on the area.
Taxes contribute to enhancing Bhutan
The nation’s tourism board states that these funds are channeled directly into supporting Bhutan’s roughly 800,000 inhabitants. The government allocates visitors’ contributions toward enhancing healthcare services, educational facilities, and upgrading infrastructural developments. Additionally, this income bolsters programs aimed at environmental conservation and aids in fostering growth for small enterprises within the community.
The nation reported generating $26 million (€25 million) in income during 2023 from the charge.
Certainly with such high
tourism tax
serves as a deterrent as well: Officials stated that approximately 103,000 visitors traveled to the nation in 2023. Most of these visitors originated from India, which is the sole country where travelers incur a reduced daily fee for their trip.
With a population of 962,000 million inhabitants, Mallorca, the Spanish island, mirrors the size of Bhutan’s populace; nonetheless, residents have faced an overwhelming influx of tourists in recent times and have
staged numerous protests
.
In 2024, approximately 13 million tourists visited the island. Consequently, it comes as little surprise that numerous locals have been advocating for restrictions on mass tourism.
In 2016, the island introduced an accommodation tax. According to the hotel classification, visitors might have to pay as much as €4 ($4.16) daily.
As per the plan proposed by the Balearic Islands’ government, the levy might increase up to six euros.
The funds are utilized to support initiatives focused on rendering Majorca more environmentally friendly. Nonetheless, this levy has had minimal impact in discouraging visitors—the island continues to achieve new highs in tourism each year.
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Tourism accommodation taxes have minimal impact as a deterrent for visitors.
“As stated by Jaume Rossello, an economics professor at the University of the Balearics in Palma de Mallorca, the impact of these taxes on tourism demand is minimal,” he notes.
In
Barcelona,
For instance, travelers presently incur costs as high as €7.50 each day, varying based on the hotel category. In Berlin, a levy of 7.5% on the cost of an overnight stay applies, whereas in Paris, guests could be faced with payments nearing €16 nightly for top-tier accommodations. Despite this, Rossello indicates that it remains uncertain when tourists would begin reconsidering their choices.
changing their destination
.
As stated by Professor Harald Zeiss from the Institute for Sustainable Tourism in Wernigerode, Germany, numerous locations utilize the income generated from tourist taxes to compensate
environmental impacts
“At the very least, this is how it’s portrayed when these taxes are being proposed and implemented,” he adds.
Nevertheless, the actual utilization of these funds differs significantly. They might be allocated towards fostering eco-friendly transportation options or merely bolstering municipal finances. “Therefore, it’s essential to clearly designate fund usage with transparency,” emphasizes Zeiss. “Yet, when resources are scarce, their intended application tends to be more vaguely outlined.”
Loathe to criticize tourism
Across numerous locations, the earnings generated from tourism taxes often constitute a substantial part of a city’s overall tax-based revenue. For instance, in Barcelona, these taxes bring in approximately €100 million ($104 million) annually, positioning them as the third-highest contributor to local government funds, based on official figures provided by the municipality. Nevertheless, this destination continues to experience intense anti-tourism demonstrations driven by rising rental costs attributed largely to short-term vacation accommodations managed by firms such as
Airbnb
As a consequence, officials in Barcelona have decided to concentrate their efforts on funding initiatives aimed at benefiting the local population rather than solely supporting the tourism industry. Approximately €100 million ($104 million) obtained through taxes levied on tourists’ overnight stays will be invested in the Barcelona School Climate Plan. This initiative involves installing air conditioning systems in the city’s educational institutions.
The income generated from the overnight accommodation tax in Berlin, referred to as the City Tax, has not been designated for specific purposes yet. This amount, totaling nearly €90 million in 2024, presently gets incorporated into the overall municipal budget.
In Amsterdam, a tourist tax has been implemented since 1973. This levy stands at 12.5% of the cost of an overnight stay and is projected to yield approximately €260 million in income for 2025, as stated by a representative from the municipal government. Local authorities assert that this tax serves not only as a significant financial resource but also as a means to regulate the influx of tourists. Nonetheless, the impact of this tax in deterring visitors may be minimal.
Venice makes changes
Following considerable discussion, Venice, Italy finally implemented its highly anticipated tourism levy in 2024. During the busy season, day visitors were required to pay an entry fee of €5 on 29 designated high-traffic days. Critics from opposing political parties argued that this charge was insufficient to discourage travelers from flocking to the overburdened city. Consequently, Venice increased the number of charging days to 54. Those failing to make the payment at least four days prior to their trip must now cough up €10 upon arrival.
It remains unclear whether the additional euros might discourage visitors from exploring the declining metropolis.
Jaume Rosselló, a researcher at the University of the Balearic Islands, expresses skepticism. According to him, for many individuals, taking a holiday is not an extravagance but rather a fundamental necessity. He cites the case of Mallorca, noting that most visitors willingly cover the lodging tax with little complaint. “These kinds of taxes tend to be quite popular,” states Rosselló, “especially when they help enhance the environmental sustainability of a location.”
Nevertheless, numerous visitors still face constraints, which can be illustrated by Bhutan’s case. After increasing the tourism levy from $65 to $200 following years of stability at the lower rate, the country observed a decline in visitor numbers. Susanne Meier noted a distinct change: “The booking figures reflected this shift clearly; people were unwilling to cover such costs.”
The article was originally in German.
Author: Jonas Martiny
oleh admin | Mar 7, 2025 | saudi arabia, tourist attractions, tourists, Travel, travel destinations
Previously considered the “best-kept secret” among global travelers, Saudi Arabia has emerged as an essential travel destination for Europeans.
At the ITB Berlin 2025 conference, Saudi Tourism Authority’s CEO, Fahd Hamidaddin, informed Euronews Travel that European arrivals increased by 24 percent in 2024, positioning the nation as an emerging global center for sports, with a higher number of events compared to Las Vegas.
With major sporting spectacles such as the 2034 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, alongside opulent getaways along the picturesque shores of the Red Sea and adventurous desert camps beneath the vast starlit skies, Saudi Arabia caters to a wide array of traveler preferences. This makes it a perfect ‘best of both worlds’ destination for visitors with varied interests.
There are more tourists from Europe visiting Saudi Arabia than any other place.
“Saudi Arabia remains one of the greatest and biggest mysteries hidden from travelers across the globe,” asserts Fahd Hamidaddin, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Tourism Authority.
Last year, we saw the most significant expansion originating from Europe, where growth attributed solely to this region reached 24 percent, including women accounting for 44 percent of that total.
When we began in 2019, our aim was to reach 100 million visitors by 2030. However, by the close of 2023, we surpassed this target with over 106 million visits.
“The current objective has been set at 150 million, with our growth rate consistently doubling each year. Over the last four years, we have maintained our position as the quickest-expanding travel destination globally.”
From the breathtaking Red Sea shoreline to extensive
desert landscapes
And with premier sporting events, Saudi Arabia provides a distinctive mix of adventurous activities, rich cultural experiences, and luxurious amenities.
Below are the top methods to explore the Kingdom in 2025.
From FIFA World Cup to Formula 1 Grand Prix: The globe’s top athletic mecca
Saudi Arabia has rapidly emerged as a major force in international sports tourism.
Elite sports figures such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Tyson Fury, and Max Verstappen have all participated in events on Saudi Arabian turf, along with significant
sporting events
attract people from all over the world.
In 2034, millions of people will descend upon Saudi Arabia for the FIFA World Cup, whereas 2025 is poised to be brimming with various sports competitions.
This April, the AFC Asian U17 Cup will highlight some of Asia’s most promising young football talents, whereas motorsport enthusiasts can watch Lewis Hamilton adorned in Ferrari red as he competes at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit during the Saudi Arabian Formula One Grand Prix.
During August, basketball enthusiasts have the opportunity to see top-tier national teams from across the continent compete for glory at the FIBA Asia Cup. In contrast, tennis aficionados will be treated to matches featuring the planet’s elite eight players when they take center stage at the WTA Tour Finals in November.
“Every major sports event, whether it’s a Formula One race or the World Cup, is accompanied by a range of cultural activities,” according to Hamidaddin.
“Saudi has been hosting more events per week than Vegas had events per week, from the Formulas, to boxing, to the World Cup, to tennis, and Dakar [Rally – the off-road endurance event].”
Sun, sand, and tranquility: Enjoy ultimate luxury at The Red Sea
Boasting untouched shorelines, exceptional sea creatures, and an array of luxurious five-star resorts, the Red Sea spans across 28,000 square kilometres along Saudi Arabia’s west coast, making it a heavenly destination.
So far, two upscale developments have debuted along its coastline, featuring the Six Senses Southern Dunes, and the St. Regis Red Sea Resort which boasts overwater bungalows extending out above the clear blue waters.
The Saudi Red Sea is the biggest vertical Riviera globally,” says Hamidaddin. “It’s an exceptional location extending from the northernmost point of Neom and Sindalah Island all the way down to the southern part of the Saudi coastline.
By the conclusion of 2025, this location will accommodate 16 resorts, and by 2030, an additional 34 resorts will bring the total count up to 50.
luxury marinas
, golf courses, and housing developments.
The developer of Red Sea, the destination manager, emphasizes that sustainable growth lies at the core of their initiative. Seventy-five percent of the area’s islands will remain undisturbed, with the remaining portion set for development.
renewable energy
.
Setting up camp beneath the stars in Saudi Arabia’s desert regions
Approximately 30 percent of Saudi Arabia’s land area is blanketed by
desert
,
Moreover, the region is renowned for its majestic dunes, ranging from the crimson tones of the Ad Dahna Desert to the vast wilderness of Rub’Al Khali (TheEmptyQuarter), which holds the title as the planet’s most extensive uninterrupted sandy terrain.
The vast Arabian sand dunes present a globally renowned attraction in the winter season, possibly rivaling major attractions around the world.
safari
in Africa and
skiing in the Alps
,” says Hamidaddin.
“Whether you’re into sand therapies, engaging in sand sports, seeking thrilling adventures, or enjoying stargazing, there’s an abundance of activities to experience, such as bearing witness to
rewilding initiatives
Through which we’ve introduced 21 species to establish a new animal kingdom.”
In the historic city of AlUla, you have the opportunity to go on camel rides, camp out in the desert, and gaze at the stars across the expansive night sky.
To seek further adventures, trek through the Red Sands vicinity.
Riyadh
Or venture into the historic Najd region, where off-road adventures stand unmatched.
If you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the desert landscape, visit the Edge of the World—a breathtaking 1,131-meter cliff located within the Tuwaik mountain range close to Riyadh. This spot offers climbers the opportunity to ascend dizzying elevations and enjoy some of the nation’s most stunning vistas.
oleh admin | Mar 6, 2025 | culture, indonesia, Travel, travel destinations, travel planning and tips
Simply uttering the word Bali evokes visions of an idyllic haven.
In the previous year, nearly two million Europeans landed in Indonesia, with the majority heading straight for the renowned beaches.
However, past the sun-drenched shores and bustling entertainment scenes, extensive parts of Indonesia stay off the beaten path, featuring lush rainforests, historic shrines, and breathtaking landscapes.
By 2025, Indonesia had redirected its attention away from mass tourism towards a more sustainable approach that highlights longer stays and regenerative practices, also bringing less-explored areas into the limelight.
At ITB Berlin 2025, when speaking with Euronews Travel, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, who serves as the deputy minister for marketing at the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, highlighted that enhancing the caliber of tourism has become their primary objective. This shift encompasses various aspects including environmental responsibility and culinary experiences.
Below are the top spots in Indonesia where you can enjoy everything, from Bali to further afield.
Straighten up your behavior in Likupang
Sustainable travel has become a growing priority for many vacationers, prompting Indonesia to initiate a nationwide ‘clean tourism’ initiative, supported by the authorities.
“Amidst the worldwide issue of waste and plastics, we’re running a campaign across Indonesia to ensure our rivers and seas remain pristine,” says Marthini.
The ministry collaborates with local authorities, students, and the community to collect garbage and raise awareness about sustainability.
Likupang in North Sulawesi offers an
eco-friendly haven
if you’re seeking to explore Indonesia’s natural beauty responsibly.
The area is known for pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs and dense tropical forests, and is currently being designated as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), an area designed to generate positive economic growth.
Unlike most SEZs in Indonesia, however, Likupang’s focus is on resort-themed tourism, balancing cultural, natural and economic aspects while preserving its beauty through zero waste management and a circular resource economy.
This area boasts a lively underwater environment, featuring unique creatures such as the green sea turtle; with some luck, you might be able to discreetly watch these animals up close.
Likupang Beach is where you should go, featuring extensive white sand shores and pristine waters ideal for this activity.
diving
Meanwhile, the islands of Lihaga and Gangga also provide incredible opportunities for divers.
Dive alongside the beams in Nusa Tenggara
Boasting more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia is teeming with diversity.
marine experiences
from adrenaline-pumping water activities to up-close wildlife experiences.
You boast of beautiful beaches where one can engage in activities like diving and snorkeling, as well as exploring the largest coral reef globally,” states Marthini. “Our aim is to highlight these offerings along with scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and much more.
With spectacular diving, magnificent waterfalls and bubbling hot springs, the province of Nusa Tenggara ticks all the boxes.
Just an hour’s flight from Bali’s Denpasar International Airport lies a cluster of 500 tiny islands formed by volcanoes and surrounded by coral reefs. These islands boast vividly colored volcanic lakes, endless surfing spots with powerful waves and tubes, as well as marine environments brimming with vibrant sea life.
In Flores, you have the opportunity to go snorkeling directly from the beach among numerous wreck-filled diving locations teeming with whale sharks, manta rays, and various fish species.
Enjoy gado-gado in culinary-rich Ubud
We have countless recipes in Indonesia, and each one includes spices, which is why we’re called the Spice Islands,” explains Marthini. “Our aim is to showcase this heritage and present Indonesia as a must-visit food lover’s paradise.
Nestled in the heart of Bali’s central hills, Ubud has long been recognized for its artistic vibe. In 2024, however, it gained additional acclaim when it was chosen by the UNWTO Gastronomy Tourism Product Development Project as a key culinary travel destination. This initiative seeks to bolster the area’s standing as an essential part of both cultural and gastronomical legacy, all while stimulating the regional economy, generating employment opportunities, and promoting sustainable growth.
The abundance of global dishes available here is remarkable.
Ubud
It suits a cosmopolitan city, yet the local cuisines should not be overlooked.
Past the affordable ‘warungs’ (small, family-run restaurants), you will discover various options.
upscale restaurants
serving genuine Balinese and Indonesian cuisine from various regions. You can savor treats such as ‘babi guling’ (roast suckling pig) and ‘gado-gado’, a hearty dish featuring an assortment of boiled veggies topped with creamy peanut sauce.
Discover serenity in Borobudur
The appeal of wellness tourism draws many visitors to Indonesia, with Bali being particularly renowned for its therapeutic massages offered at numerous health retreats throughout the nation.
Borobudur
Java provides something genuinely exceptional.
Surrounded by serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the area invites you to connect deeply with both nature and spirituality.
Reaching to the heavens, Borobudur Temple dates back to the 8th century and is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. Here you’ll find a
peaceful energy
This improves yoga and meditation practices, whereas nearby wellness getaways provide comprehensive therapies including Javanese massages and herbal treatments.
Stray from the beaten path in Sumba
Are you ready to venture off the beaten path? Then dive into the jungle.
treehouses
Across the archipelago, riverside lodges and beach shacks will extend a warm greeting to visitors.
In distant villages, locals frequently welcome travelers into their homes through cozy accommodations called ‘penginapan,’ providing an genuine glimpse into Indonesian daily existence.
Over 6,000 villages across Indonesia are prepared to host travelers in rural regions,” states Marthini. “Our aim is to ensure that tourism benefits not just large companies, but also the local communities who lead everyday lives there.
villages
, tailored for them, by them.
Visitors reside in local villagers’ homes, thereby gaining cultural preservation whilst also contributing to their economy.
Homestays
Are widespread throughout Indonesia; however, less-famous locations frequently offer a more authentic travel encounter.
To find something genuinely distinctive, take a look at the
island of Sumba
situated in the south of the nation, this region features serene villages with massive stone graves, elevated homes, and timber chapels.
oleh admin | Mar 5, 2025 | tourist attractions, Travel, travel destinations, yachting, yachts
The marinas in Monaco and Dubai serve as play areas for the ultra-wealthy, whereas Sanya is emerging as a key destination for marine tourism. Meanwhile, Singapore maintains a vibrant and busy port.
Bubbly pours freely, colossal yachts cruise by, and the vast ocean calls out with the allure of exploration—marinas are far more than mere docking spots. Featuring top-notch amenities and breathtaking settings, these six locales stand alone as attractions worth visiting.
1. Port Hercules, Monaco
The epitome of exclusiveness, Port Hercules, also known as Millionaire’s Harbor, has for years stood as a emblem of affluence and opulence. Situated right at the center of
Monte Carlo
Since ancient Greek and Roman times, it has served as Monaco’s primary harbor. Originally a fishing port and naval station, it has transformed into what may be the world’s most recognizable superyacht marina. During the Monaco Grand Prix (from May 23 to 25 this year), the marina becomes a sort of floating VIP lounge. Spectators in Zone 1 get excellent track-side vantage points but at a steep price; docking a yacht up to 150 meters long can cost over €150,000 (approximately HK$1.2 million).
While Port Hercules sees significant activity during the Grand Prix weekend, it remains bustling throughout the year as well. Royalty, famous musicians, actors, athletes, and other notable figures regularly moor their yachts at this prestigious harbor. One of the highlights includes the glamorous Monaco Yacht Show held from September 24th through 27th, which adds excitement to both the social scene and nautical events.
In addition to high-end shopping, exquisite restaurants, and gambling venues, visitors arriving sans watercraft have plenty of options too. Among these attractions is the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, home to an impressive collection of over 6,000 exhibits observable among sharks swimming freely within a lagoon or amidst colorful coral reefs. Visitors also enjoy panoramic views atop the museum’s roof terrace.
Riviera
views.
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2. Sanya International Yachting Center, China
As Sanya’s prominence in sailing and maritime tourism expands, it has acquired the moniker “City of a Thousand Boats.” Opened in 2023 along the southern coastline of Hainan Island, the Sanya International Yachting Center was established as an upscale haven for luxurious vessels. This facility offers over 200 docking spots specifically designed for large yachts. It is conveniently located close to several areas within China.
most beautiful beaches
, it is an ideal spot for water sports in addition to sailing. As well as fine dining, retail and leisure options, the centre offers less glamorous services such as yacht maintenance.
The marina has been home to numerous prestigious events, notably December’s Boating Sanya, where around 200 seafaring vessels were showcased. However, Sanya offers much beyond boating; for instance, the serene Nanshan Temple, adorned with magnificent Buddhist sculptures, and pristine sandy shores like those found at Yalong Bay.
3. ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore
Renowned for its dedication to luxury coupled with environmentally friendly practices, ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove draws inspiration from Singapore’s geographical coordinates—approximately one degree and fifteen minutes above the equator. This marina provides docking facilities suitable for vessels of various sizes alongside Quayside Isle—a public space featuring high-end eateries like Cantonese restaurant WOK°15 Kitchen where guests can enjoy quality meals. Known for integrating sustainable features such as solar lights and water recycling mechanisms, ONE°15 exemplifies Singapore’s focus on ecological maritime management. Additionally, this harbor serves as a venue for significant events; notably, the upcoming Singapore Yachting Festival will run from April 10th through April 13th, showcasing cutting-edge developments within the sector.
Beyond ONE°15, family-friendly
Sentosa
is a tropical getaway brimming with activities such as Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark. Guests can unwind on its pristine beaches, delve into the nature-filled paths of Sentosa Nature Discovery, and take in breathtaking vistas from the SkyPark at Resorts World. Among Sentosa’s accommodations, the Capella Singapore stands out as a premier choice – at minimum,
Taylor Swift
appeared to believe so when she came to town for her performance last March.
4. Dubai Marina
The biggest entirely artificial marina globally was created by excavating a 3.5-kilometer-long channel through the desert and then flooding it with seawater drawn from the Persian Gulf.
Dubai
Marina stands as a city unto itself, boasting over 200 skyscrapers along with luxurious hotels and high-end restaurants. This metropolis houses the 414-meter Princess Tower, which holds the distinction of being the tallest purely residential building globally. Additionally, its marina has the capacity to berth more than 500 yachts and megayachts, frequently belonging to members of Middle Eastern royal families and wealthy individuals.
When evening descends, the Dubai Marina Walk, a waterfront promenade adorned with eateries, dining venues, and luxury boutiques, comes alive under vibrant neon lights. At the center of this bustling area stands Pier 7, a multi-level hub featuring numerous food establishments and sky-high drinking spots. To the south extends the longest pier where you can find the colossal Ain Dubai observation wheel.
5. Vilamoura Marina, Portugal
A favorite meeting spot on the Algarve frequented by the affluent and celebrities who boat, enjoy cocktails, and mingle, Vilamoura Marina is located here.
Portugal
Its sandy southern coastline has been crowned International Marina of the Year seven times, with an outstanding streak of three successive victories, awarded by the British-based Yacht Harbour Association known for promoting safety and environmental excellence. Although it did not secure the top spot last year—where Montenegro’s Portonovi Marina triumphed—it received recognition in various categories: it was titled Superyacht Marina of the Year and Sustainable Marina of the Year.
Vilamoura features 825 docks capable of accommodating yachts up to 60 meters long. The area offers various amenities such as a wellness center, upscale shopping options, a golf course, and premium waterfront residences. Additionally, the marina is within easy reach of several beautiful sandy shores. Should your budget not be sufficient for purchasing a megayacht, stroll along the promenade where numerous eateries await. There, indulge in a comforting meal of Salmão Grelhado—grilled salmon fillet prepared with herbs, garlic, and lemon.
6. Ocean Marina Jomtien, located in Thailand
The biggest marina in Southeast Asia frequently attracts yacht owners as it is close to a resort town.
Pattaya
, on
Thailand’s east coast
With over 450 docks able to accommodate boats up to 75 meters long, Ocean Marina Jomtien has been the heart of local sailing activities since it was founded in 1989, and it features a packed racing calendar. The marina addresses various requirements—from fixing your boat or stocking it with high-end provisions to finding skilled crew members—and sailors can enjoy the consistent weather all year round which makes Thailand perfect for water sports. Whether they choose to sail around close-by destinations like Koh Larn and Koh Khram or venture further out into open waters, there’s always something exciting happening at this bustling harbor.
In addition to its maritime offerings, the location features dining establishments and lounges, with the Ocean Marina Resort Pattaya Jomtien hotel providing an overlook. Services include yacht and boat rentals, sailing lessons, aquatic activities, and fishing excursions.
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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
oleh admin | Mar 1, 2025 | entertainment, hollywood, movies, Travel, westerns
As an arid, wind-swept region, the Tabernas Desert in Andalusia stands as a renowned movie location. More than 300 films and television shows, such as “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade,” “Game of Thrones,” and Sergio Leone’s classic westerns, have found their settings within its distinctive environment. Featuring surreal terrains, filming studios, and abandoned settlements, this expansive wilderness remains a draw for those seeking thrilling adventures and extensive open areas.
At the center of Andalusia
Just a short distance from Almería, you’ll find Europe’s sole desert. Spanning across the Tabernas Desert, this arid expanse features sculpted hills eroded by wind, meandering gorges, and vast expanses covered in dust under an ever-present azure sky. Characterized by infrequent rainfalls and summertime temperatures frequently surpassing 40°C, this semiarid environment has crafted a striking scenery akin to
The deserts of Nevada or Arizona
.
This notable similarity is what attracted filmmakers to the Tabernas Desert starting from the 1960s. The maestro of Spaghetti Westerns, Sergio Leone, paved the way for iconic films such as
The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly
(1966) and the unforgettable
Once Upon a Time in the West
(1968). More recently, Ridley Scott filmed
Exodus: Gods and Kings
(2014) here, while
Game of Thrones
utilized the desert as a setting for scenes depicting Dorne, one of the show’s recognizable locations.
An exploration of the golden era of Westerns in Spanish cinema
To restore the enchantment of those iconic movie scenes, visit Oasys MiniHollywood, a theme park that maintains the genuine settings from timeless Western films. In this place, you can stroll down sandy roads, step into timber-framed bars, and encounter handlebar-mustached marshals.
Bring a true Wild West town to life
Each day, guests are enveloped in the excitement of cowboy movies through equestrian displays and jousts.
If you’re planning a trip to Spain, these articles can assist with organizing your travel plans:
-
8 locations to discover in Madrid, the dynamic heart of Spain
-
This picturesque Spanish town was constructed directly on top of the cliff (and it’s absolutely stunning).
-
This medieval village in Spain was just voted one of the best tourist destinations in the world
A short distance away, Fort Bravo and Western Leone provide an extensive look at Tabernas’ cinematic history. Movie buffs can stroll through the same settings where Clint Eastwood famously brandished his pistols, examine authentic props, and perhaps spend a day as a film extra themselves.
However, the history of this desert extends well past Western movies. As you wander through these outdoor sets, you’ll uncover signs of Hollywood’s impact as well.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
(1989),
Lawrence of Arabia
(1962),
Conan the Barbarian
(1982), and
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Men who hate Women)
(2009) all filmed scenes here.
A wilderness to discover past the movie theater
While cinema has shaped the legend of the Tabernas Desert, the region is also worth exploring for its landscapes and biodiversity. As a designated protected natural area, the desert is home to a surprising array of wildlife, including golden eagles, foxes, reptiles, and even rare endemic species adapted to its extreme conditions.
To discover this region filled with contradictions, travelers have multiple choices. Regardless of whether they choose hiking, driving an off-road vehicle, or riding horses, organized tours lead guests through dramatic gorges, arid flatlands, and secluded ravines. Certain paths trace the journey of cinematic cowboys, providing an authentic adventure right in the middle of Andalucía’s version of the Wild West.
As the sun sets and paints the sky in hues of blazing red, Tabernas unveils its complete enchantment. In this ageless setting, the dust whispers tales of famous equestrian pursuits and cinematic legends.
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