Blog

Venice is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most iconic cities, known for its beautiful historic charm and romantic canals. However, in 2024, Venice faces challenges like overtourism, environmental issues, and a new entry fee for tourists, making it less inviting. Luckily, there are other European cities with similar picturesque canals and charming streets.
One such alternative is Tavira, a lesser-known seaside city in Portugal’s Algarve region, near the Spanish border. Tavira, often referred to as the “Venice of Portugal” or “Venice of the Algarve,” boasts winding canals and stunning golden beaches.
While Venice is unique, Tavira offers a delightful second-best option. Think of it as a rebound after a breakup with Venice. Tavira doesn’t claim to surpass Venice, but it fits the trend of finding less crowded and more affordable destinations, popular on social media platforms like TikTok.
Although you won’t find romantic gondola rides or the aroma of Italian cuisine, Tavira offers excellent wine and breathtaking natural sites. The canals in Tavira are a notable feature, earning it its nickname. While traditional gondolas are rare, there are fantastic boat tours available. Ferries and tours take visitors to beautiful spots, including the Ria Formosa Nature Park, where calm canals and islands meet a stunning coastline of golden beaches.
Unlike Venice, Tavira has no entry fees or reservation requirements. You can enjoy delicious food, wine, and scenery without the extra costs, as the Algarve is known for its affordability.
Tavira’s golden beaches are a major attraction. Although not as famous as other Portuguese cities like Porto, Faro, and Lisbon, Tavira’s relative obscurity adds to its charm. One standout spot is Ilha de Tavira, a white sand island just a 20-minute ferry ride from the city. However, beachgoers should be aware of the “clothing optional” section.
Reaching Tavira is easier than you might think. Azores Airlines recently introduced nonstop flights to Portugal from Boston and New York. Portugal’s small size means Tavira is accessible from any mainland airport. Exploring Portugal by train is also a recommended adventure. The nearest Portuguese city to Tavira is Faro, which has seen a surge in tourism. United Airlines now offers nonstop flights to Faro, making Tavira just a 40-minute journey away. Alternatively, you can reach Tavira from Seville, Spain, in under two hours by bus or car.

2024 is set to be a big year for tourism in Asia. Many destinations across the region are seeing a surge in foreign visitors, thanks to better connectivity, tourist-friendly policies, and easier visa processes. One standout city is Hanoi, Vietnam, which expects to welcome around 5 million international tourists this year, according to the state-run news agency TTXVN. Hanoi is now competing with Tokyo, Singapore, and Bangkok for the title of Asia’s top city break destination.
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich culture. The city is growing rapidly, with a population exceeding 8 million. It serves as the political and economic hub of northern Vietnam and is a major cultural center. While other Vietnamese cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Hoi An have their own historical sites, Hanoi boasts the highest concentration of them.
One of Hanoi’s key attractions is the Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 11th century. The city is a mix of architectural styles, from native Indochinese and colonial landmarks to brutalist apartment blocks and modern buildings. Despite its urban density, Hanoi offers plenty of green spaces with its lake-dotted parks.
Tourists flock to Hanoi to see the Imperial Citadel, enjoy Vietnamese iced coffee while watching trains pass through narrow streets, admire the Gothic St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and explore the local markets in the Old Quarter. The city is also home to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoàn Kiếm Lake with its iconic Turtle Tower, and the French-built Opera House.
What truly sets Hanoi apart is its people. Visitors often highlight their interactions with the friendly and humble locals as the best part of their trip. Despite being a cosmopolitan city, Hanoi retains a strong sense of hospitality.
Hanoi’s vibrant social scene is another big draw for tourists. While it may not be known for its nightlife like Bangkok, the city offers a thriving café culture and lively night markets. The food scene is also a major attraction, with a variety of delicious and affordable dishes like pho, prawn-stuffed rice paper rolls, cao lau noodles, and sweet potato-based stew miến.
Hanoi is one of the most affordable tourist destinations in the world. According to research by British website Wethrift, it’s the second cheapest, only behind New Delhi. Meals at curbside restaurants can cost as little as $2, while three-course dinners at upscale restaurants are around $25-30. Hotel prices average $49 per night. Budget travelers can get by on as little as $17 per day by staying in hostels, eating street food, and visiting free attractions like Train Street and the city’s lakes. On average, tourists should plan to spend about $48 per day, or $334 for a week. Even high-end travelers will find Hanoi reasonably priced, with daily costs around $143 and just over $1,000 for a week-long stay.
With its many temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and lush green parks amid modern buildings, Hanoi is one of the most affordable and culturally rich destinations to visit this year.

This morning, we took the bus from our hotel near the City of Arts and Culture into town. The number 35 bus got us to Plaza de Ayuntamento in under 15 minutes. While you can pay on the bus, it’s cheaper to buy a 10-journey card from any Tabac shop.

Our first stop was the Mercado Central, where we explored in search of picnic supplies. The market is spacious and filled with all kinds of fresh food. There were stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables, dried sausages, jamon, and local cheeses.

On the far side of the market, we found the fish stalls, displaying langoustine and shellfish on beds of ice. The Spanish really love their seafood. We bought some small, sweet green olives, miniature pimentos, and artichokes stuffed with soft cheese. From the bakery stall, we picked up almond macaroons, chocolate croissants, empanadas (chicken and meat pastries), and some plump red strawberries.

We then found a little Tapas bar to rest. The children tried some tortilla de patatas (omelette slices with onions and potatoes) and jamon and tomato open sandwiches, which were toasted so that the jamon melted into the bread.

Later, we enjoyed our picnic in the Plaza de la Virgin. The children entertained themselves by imitating street performers, juggling with plastic Perrier bottles until they fell and cracked on the ground.

Some people seek luxury when they fly, and I often envy their delicious meals, extra amenities, and comfortable night’s sleep. Me? I prefer to fly as cheaply as possible! The less I spend on getting somewhere, the more cash I have to splash when I arrive! So, AirAdvisor’s list of the cheapest U.S. airlines couldn’t have come at a better time. Check out the list and stick around to the end for some of my top tips on saving money on airfare:
**5. JetBlue**
JetBlue is considered a budget carrier, but they aren’t an ultra-low-budget, no-frills airline. If you want to save a few bucks but aren’t prepared to trim every essential, they might be a good choice. JetBlue took the 5th place spot with airfares averaging $0.1332 per seat, per mile. But when you think how many miles the average flight is, costs can quickly add up! Look for Blue, Blue Plus, Blue Extra, and Mint fares, as these all include a free carry-on bag that fits in the overhead bin. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay extra for any luggage you carry.
**4. Allegiant Air**
Because they only fly within the U.S., Allegiant is considered one of the cheapest domestic airlines. If you’re looking for domestic travel this summer without breaking the bank, they’re well worth considering. Expect to spend an average of $0.1294 per seat, per mile if you book with Allegiant.
**3. Hawaiian Airlines**
Hawaiian Airlines is the only airline on this list that doesn’t specialize in low-cost travel, making them the highest-ranking non-budget airline in the country. You’ll pay an average of $0.1236 per seat, per mile if you choose Hawaiian Airlines. As the name suggests, Hawaiian Airlines is a good budget option if you want to fly from anywhere in the U.S. to Hawaii. They also offer the best prices for getting from Hawaii to Asia or the South Pacific.
**2. Spirit Airlines**
If you want a getaway to the sun this summer, Spirit is a great choice. They specialize in flights across the U.S. to the Caribbean and Latin America. Expect to pay an average of $0.1110 per seat, per mile with Spirit. The best way to get the cheapest fare with Spirit is to avoid adding on any extras. The “Basic Fare” advertised on the website only includes your seat and one personal item. You’ll then pay extra for anything else you want, such as luggage or seat selection. Spirit doesn’t have a simple price table, and prices vary depending on where you’re traveling. However, carry-on luggage prices start from $39 and up. Stick to the basic fare and travel light for the lowest prices that earned Spirit 2nd place on this list.
**1. Frontier Airlines**
Given that they’re pitched as an ultra-low-cost airline, it shouldn’t come as much surprise that Frontier took the number 1 spot as the cheapest U.S. airline. They are much cheaper than the other airlines on the list with an average cost of $0.0985 per seat, per mile. Frontier has a pretty wide network too. So if you’re flying in the U.S, Central America, or Mexico, it’s probably worth checking out their prices first, as well as comparing them to the other airlines on this list. Like Spirit, Frontier also charges for carry-on baggage, so consider this extra cost when booking too. You can avoid this by booking a bundle option of BizFare package. Otherwise, prices start from $20 per person per flight segment.
**How To Save Money On Airfare**
Because almost all of these airlines are low-cost or ultra-low-cost carriers, you’ll pay extra for pretty much everything. The most expensive extra airlines like to sting you for is bringing either carry-on or hold luggage. One of the best ways to save money on airfare is to leave your suitcase at home. Pack light, or even consider buying essentials (such as sunscreen) when you arrive: it’s often cheaper to shop at your destination than it is to pay the airline to bring a big suitcase. If you can’t pack light, then pay for your baggage in advance. It is always cheaper to buy in advance than at the airport, and that applies to every airline on this list!
It’s not a tip that works for everyone, but I also love waiting ‘til the last minute to book flights and vacations. Often, my travel plans will revolve around which airline and destination is offering the cheapest tickets! If any airline has inventory left, they’ll sell it at a fraction of the price a couple of weeks before departure. But of course, this only works if you have a flexible schedule and no fixed idea of where you want to go next.
Finally, if you’re traveling overseas and you have more time than money, you’ll save a packet by not booking direct flights. The cheapest flights are often the ones most people consider the worst – and that can mean a long layover. But it’s a great way to see parts of the world you might otherwise not be able to afford to explore!

There are countless beautiful churches in Rome, but Chiesa Santa Maria is pretty close to my idea of perfection. It’s one of the earliest churches where masses were openly celebrated in the city. A church has stood on this site since 340 AD, although the current building dates back to the 1140s.

Located in the main piazza of the old Trastevere quarter, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy an after-dinner gelato in the evening when the piazza buzzes with street entertainers, bars, and restaurants.

You enter the church through a cool portico decorated with broken marble plaques from ancient Roman tombs, inscribed in Latin and Greek. (Did you notice the backpacker napping when we were there?)

Inside, the church is adorned with stunning mosaics and frescoes, bursting with color. The columns lining the nave were taken from the ancient Roman Baths of Caracalla.

To the left of the altar, there’s a 17th-century chapel with exquisite painted frescoes. Look up, and you’ll see the magnificent ceiling.

Despite all this grandeur, the church still feels like a neighborhood place of worship. If you have a special prayer request, you can write it on a piece of paper provided and leave it in the arms of St. Anthony, or light a candle in the crimson side chapel.

I’ve worked as a digital nomad in over 20 European cities, spending anywhere from a week to several months in each place. After considering factors like affordability, quality of life, and how easy it is to work remotely, I’ve narrowed it down to my top three cities. Some of my personal favorites, like Paris, didn’t make the list because they’re too expensive. These three cities are more affordable and offer great options, including long-stay visas for digital nomads.
Seville, Spain
Seville is my top pick for digital nomads in Spain. While Madrid and Barcelona are popular, I believe Seville is the best. Located in the southern region of Andalusia, Seville enjoys plenty of sunshine year-round, so you can leave your umbrella at home. If you love history and architecture, Seville is a dream come true. The city is also rich in culture and nightlife, with flamenco shows and tapas in sidewalk cafes that stay open late. The cost of living in Seville is lower than in Madrid or Barcelona. I stayed in the historic center, Casco Antiguo, but the more local neighborhood of Triana across the river is even more affordable. Spain introduced a digital nomad visa in 2023, allowing freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs to live in Spain for up to a year, with the possibility of renewing it for up to five years. To qualify, you need to show a monthly income of at least €2,400 (~$2,600).
Athens, Greece
Athens might not be for everyone, but I loved it so much that I returned for a second stay after traveling through the Greek islands. It’s a big, slightly gritty, and chaotic city, but it has an incredible energy. You’ll find graffiti and street art everywhere, alongside ancient ruins like the Acropolis and the Agora. Athens is quite affordable, especially outside the touristy areas. Psirri and Thiseio are two of the coolest neighborhoods with a fun, youthful vibe and lower prices. Greece also offers a digital nomad visa, but it requires a higher income threshold of at least €3,500 (~$3,790) per month. The visa is valid for one year and can be extended for an additional year.
Split, Croatia
Split is another fantastic city for digital nomads. This large coastal city along the Adriatic Sea is perfect for working during the day and enjoying beach parties at night. In your free time, you can take boat trips to nearby islands or explore the historic maze of streets in Diocletian’s Palace at the city’s center. Split remains affordable, although prices have risen in recent years. You can still find great deals on apartments, especially outside the summer season. Croatia was one of the first European countries to launch a digital nomad visa in 2021. This visa allows you to stay in Croatia for up to a year, but it cannot be extended. You need to show a monthly income of at least €2,539 (~$2,750).

People from all over the world travel to Europe to soak in its rich culture. While Europe’s popular spots can get extremely crowded during the summer, there’s a good reason why everyone flocks there. Think of dreamy architecture, towering cathedrals, and amazing cultural venues. A study by the global luggage storage provider Slasher has identified the top cultural destinations in Europe. Here are the top four:
4. Milan
Milan is the fourth most cultural destination in Europe and the top spot in Italy, even ranking above Rome in every category of the Slasher study. The city is highly rated for its film and media sites, comedy and entertainment venues, and parks and recreational spaces. Must-see cultural attractions in Milan include the Duomo di Milano, the city’s most important landmark, da Vinci’s famous mural of The Last Supper, and the Triennale di Milano, a museum of art and design in Parco Sempione. For art lovers, Milan is a must-visit city in Europe.
3. Amsterdam
Amsterdam, despite being famously overcrowded in the summer, is the third most cultural city in Europe. The city boasts the highest number of live performance spaces in Europe and has 94 cultural sites per 100,000 residents, the second highest in Europe. Cultural highlights in Amsterdam include The Rembrandt House Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the city’s canals, which are a great way to see the city if you’re short on time. Amsterdam is also one of the most child-friendly European capitals, with beautiful urban parks, fascinating canal cruises, and child-focused museums.
2. Barcelona
Barcelona is the second most cultural destination in Europe this summer. While the city can be hot and sticky in the summer, it can also be one of the quietest times to explore if you go off the beaten track. Many locals leave the city during the summer, leaving the streets empty and local shops and restaurants closed. Top cultural attractions in Barcelona include Park Güell, the Picasso Museum, the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, and Gaudi’s Sagrada Família, which is set for completion in 2026 but is still an amazing place to visit now.
1. Paris
It’s no surprise that Paris is Europe’s most popular cultural destination. Known as the City of Light, Paris has inspired countless novels, films, and other creative works. This summer, Paris is hosting the Olympics, but there’s plenty to do if sports aren’t your thing. The city has the highest number of parks and recreational spaces per 100,000 people in Europe, with 1,238 green spaces to explore. Paris also ranks highly for its number of live performance spaces. Iconic attractions include the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais des Champs-Élysées, the Petit Palace, and The Hôtel des Invalides, which is particularly fascinating for those interested in military history. My favorite cultural attraction in Paris is the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris, with its imposing exterior and captivating art inside.

Jamaica has always been a popular Caribbean destination for American travelers. Now, the town of Ocho Rios is finally getting the recognition it deserves. Located on Jamaica’s northeastern coast, Ocho Rios boasts stunning white sand beaches and breathtaking views.
For the first time in 2024, Americans can fly nonstop from the U.S. to Ocho Rios. This route has become so popular that American Airlines will add new daily nonstop flights from Miami, starting December 5. Originally a once-weekly service, it will now operate daily, boosting the town’s accessibility. Besides new flight routes, Ocho Rios is also a well-known cruise port, further increasing its popularity.
However, for travelers who prefer hidden gems over popular spots, Ocho Rios has much to offer, with plenty of off-the-beaten-path activities. Here are some highlights:
**Paradise for Food Lovers**
Ocho Rios is a paradise for food enthusiasts. Known for its spicy, hearty soul food, Jamaica offers many culinary delights. In Ocho Rios, you can also find excellent options for world cuisine, especially if you explore hidden gems. Ms T’s is highly recommended for authentic Jamaican dishes, popular with both locals and informed tourists. If you crave classic Italian food like pizza and pasta, Evita’s is a great choice, offering delicious food and stunning views over Ocho Rios Bay. For a unique dining experience, Zionite Organic Farm offers a farm-to-table meal with a farm tour included in your reservation. Trying new foods is always a highlight of any vacation, and this place is perfect for something different.
**Breathtaking Attractions**
Ocho Rios is incredibly beautiful, with every view worthy of an Instagram post. The town offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and thrilling activities for adrenaline junkies. However, if relaxation is more your style, Ocho Rios is ideal for that too. A popular activity is touring Dunns River Falls, where the view from the top is stunning, though you’ll encounter many vendors. For a less crowded alternative, visit Konoko Falls and Park, where the climb is easier, and the views are equally beautiful. Another unique attraction is the Sun Valley Plantation hummingbird garden, a working plantation and botanical farm where you can see hundreds of hummingbirds and a variety of plant life. You’ll also have the chance to taste fresh tropical fruits and get a glimpse into local life.
**Hiring a Guide**
To truly explore Ocho Rios and discover its hidden gems, consider hiring a car and driver. Public transport can be unreliable, and tours often mean traveling with large groups, limiting your freedom. Renting a car or hiring a driver and guide can significantly enhance your experience. Amity Tours and Transfers are known for their excellent drivers and personalized service, ensuring you see the best of Ocho Rios.

Packing for a Mediterranean cruise can be exciting, but you can’t just run to the nearest boutique if you forget something. Here are my top tips for what to wear on a Mediterranean cruise, based on my experience and advice from blogger friends.

For my recent cruise, I needed clothes for sightseeing, dinner outfits, and something dressy for formal nights. I also planned to relax on the sun deck, visit the spa, and maybe hit the gym. I prefer to travel light, so I didn’t want to lug around heavy suitcases.

When packing for a Mediterranean cruise in May, I expected warm sunny days and cooler evenings. Living in England, where the weather is unpredictable, I checked the forecast for our destinations a week before the cruise. My weather app and Weather2Travel.com were helpful, showing temperatures around 22-25°C, cooling down at night. I packed a jumper for the evenings and was glad I brought a rain jacket for the few showers we encountered in Barcelona.

For a 7-day cruise, I needed outfits for different activities. We visited a new destination daily and stayed active, so I packed comfortable city trainers and flip-flops for onboard. My sightseeing wardrobe included t-shirts and cut-off trousers, and I had vest tops for pool time. For evenings, I packed dressy tops and white jeans that could mix and match with my daytime clothes. For formal nights, I skipped the ball gown and opted for a sparkly top and a silky evening cover-up to add glamour.

One packing secret is to stick to one color scheme per trip. For this cruise, I chose beige, cream, and soft pink for sightseeing, and orange tops with white or black trousers for evenings and onboard days. This way, I could mix and match different tops with the same trousers.

When visiting religious sites, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and knees. I packed a top suitable for conservative dress in Muslim countries, like my orange linen top with elbow-length sleeves. This ensured I was appropriately dressed for places like Tunis.

Different cruise lines have varying dress codes for formal nights. MSC Cruises, for example, has a more relaxed European dress sense. I checked the formal dress guidelines on the cruise company website and discussion boards like Cruise Critic. My partner packed a blazer and smart trousers instead of a dinner jacket, which was a good choice as few tuxedos were worn on board. I chose a sparkly top for gala evenings and an evening cover-up for other nights.

Some cruise ships have laundry rooms, but MSC Splendida did not. I used my top tip for packing crease-free: roll your clothes instead of folding them. This, along with choosing crease-resistant fabrics, kept my clothes looking fresh.

Packing for a Mediterranean cruise involves planning for various activities and weather conditions. By sticking to a color scheme, packing versatile outfits, and being mindful of cultural dress codes, you can enjoy a stylish and comfortable cruise experience.

The Roman Baths in Bath are a must-see attraction in this charming UNESCO World Heritage city. Dating back to the 2nd century AD, the Romans built a temple here dedicated to the Goddess Sulis Minerva, and in the 18th century, it became a popular spot for Georgian society to enjoy the waters.

As a local from nearby Bristol, the Roman Baths are my go-to place when showing visitors around Bath.

The baths, built over a natural hot spring, were significant even before Roman times. Enclosed in the 2nd century AD, they became a center for worship at the temple of Sulis Minerva, the Goddess of healing. Unlike most Roman baths, which had smaller plunge pools and limited hot water due to the high cost of heating, the Roman Baths in Bath were notable for their size and abundant hot water.

The baths served as both a public leisure center and a site of devotion, featuring a temple courtyard and an altar next to the spring. Today, the Roman Baths are surrounded by the cathedral and shops, though they originally covered a much larger area, with some remains now lying beneath the surrounding streets.

In the 18th century, the Grand Pump Room was built next to the main spring, providing a place for people to socialize and drink the health-giving spring water, a practice often mentioned in Jane Austen’s novels. The 19th century saw the uncovering of the wider extent of the Roman Baths, the reconstruction of the Great Bath’s columns and statues, and the reopening of the baths to the public in 1897.

Visitors to the bath complex receive an audio guide available in several languages, allowing them to explore at their own pace. The guide includes commentary for children and reflections by travel writer Bill Bryson.

The tour starts on the terrace above the Great Baths, featuring statues of Roman Emperors connected to England. From there, visitors can view other baths in the complex, including the smaller original King’s Bath, a sacred place with the original spring water gently bubbling. People used to throw prayers or curses written on small lead tablets into this pool, seeking the goddess’s help.

The tour continues to the Roman level of the baths, where visitors can walk around the original temple courtyard and see the Roman brick overflow channel that directed water to the nearby River Avon. Short film clips depict scenes from Roman times, bringing the history to life with characters like a Roman matron, a young family, and temple priests.

The tour concludes at the lower level of the Great Bath, where visitors can sit by the water and imagine what it was like to relax, bathe, and socialize there. It feels like an inviting open-air swimming pool.

Before leaving, it’s worth visiting the pump rooms for afternoon tea and a taste of the mineral water from the spring, served from an elegant Georgian urn. The water’s taste is not particularly pleasant, but its health-giving reputation makes it worth trying.

The Roman Baths are open daily year-round, with variable hours depending on the day and season. Standard adult tickets start at £21.50. The baths are located at Abbey Church Yard, Bath, BA1 1LZ.