The greenest capitals from Europe - Less pollution, more traveling

As you travel more, you discover that the most notorious destinations as Paris or Rome aren't the ones who will fulfill your expectations and enrich your experience as you expected

Q: Why?

A: Bigger cities mean greater industrialization, more pollution, streets full of trash, more traffic gems, less green spaces, globalized architecture and overcrowded attractions dominated by high prices.

Now think that you want to take the perfect snapshot to post it on your personal account, so everybody can be inspired by your story. But what about if you see THIS level of air pollution on your trip and all your ideas of stunning photos are ruined?

(Photo by Smarter Travel)

Lucky for you, we have the list of 3 greenest capitals from Europe that are environmental-friendly by providing more cycle lanes, higher air and water quality and a bigger surface of green public spaces. Don't worry, we will tell you about what attractions to visit too!

Let us inform you better about the difference about smog and fog, before you will say each city has the air polluted. While fog is a natural phenomenon encountered from time to time near earth's surface as thick cloud, smog is mixed with the first term mentioned mixed with smoke and atmospheric pollutants.

"OK...Boring", says the person reading this.

We explained this so you can understand the more pollutant particles are in air (being classified in three category: PM 2.5 and 10, first one being the most common) the less clear sky you will have in your trips, photos, city break.

1. Vienna, Austria:

Austria's capital is recognized as being one of the most beautiful cities, but no everybody knows that it's also a sustainable city  by owning a 1.300 km of cycle lanes, having a 83% population that tends to use more public transportation and bikes to travel to work, meaning less traffic and a pollution of air of PM 2.5  according to Breezo Meter of 9.41 um/m3 (By the way, the limit of this index is 12) resulting in a clear and fresh air.

(Photo by Eleven Route-City Park)

Things to visit: The Palmenhaus at The Burggarten - literally a glass house, a getaway in the middle of the city that provides also a lunch shop; Imperial Palace of the Habsburg dynasty rulers - for 15 euros you can spend a whole day exploring the forth types of Architecture: Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo in the 18 groups of buildings with 2.6000 rooms; The Prater -  covering and old-fashion theme park with a Giant Ferris Wheel dating since 1896, different rides, dinning areas, museums and monuments near by.

(Photo by Pinterest-The Palmenhaus at The Burggarten)

Food to try: Viennese sausage in Wurstelstand kiosks, Austrian dumplings Knödel, Viennese coffee in Café Hawelka.

(Photo by SWOREX-Knödel)

2. Bern, Switzerland:

Hold on! Don't tell me you made the same mistake as the rest of the World and thought that ‎Zürich is the capital of this country? It's good that you are reading this, you may also want to know that it has a 400 km of cycle lanes , the PM 2.5 of pollution is 0,91 um/m3 which is almost nothing, the green space is coating 32.76% of the total surface and the daily average percentage of traffic gems was 20% in 2018.

(Photo by Bern Welcome- Rosengarten)

Things to visit: The Old Town - listed under UNESCO World Heritage preserved in its medieval characteristics and most known for its Clock Tower; Museum of Bern & Einstein Museum - mixed building forming the second largest museum from the country that exhibit the scientist's life and the history of the country from Stone Age, to Middle Ages and 20th Century; Rosengarten - a romantic bloomed roses garden that used to be a cemetery in 1913.

(Photo by National Geographic.nl-Bern's Old Town)

Food to try: Weiner schnitzel made from beef meat, eggs and bread crumbs; the delicious Rosti made from boiled scraped cheesy potatoes and the famous Fondue Swiss melted cheese.

(Photo by Delicious Magazine-Fondue)

3. Helsinki, Finland:

Going to Santa Claus' home we can discover that this city  has a 1.200 km long cycle lanes, the PM 2.5 is 8.17 um/mg on the last check, 20% of traffic congestion according to Tom Tom Index and  a surface of 40% green spaces.

 (Owned Photo- Suomenlinna Island)

Things to visit: Suomenlinna Island - a 20 min ferry ride from Kauppatori harbor can bring you to a  medieval fortified fortress hailed by UNESCO; Helsinki Cathedral - iconic symbol with a height of 62 meters and a neoclassic style; Helsinki City Museum - free entry museum close to the cathedral which exhibit the past life of Finland in a interactive way.

(Owned Photo-Helsinki Cathedral)

Food to try: Pulla known as delicious cinnamon buns found everywhere throughout the country; Baltic Herring - being a port city, you can find a big amount of sea food, the most popular being the herring also has its own festival each year; Finnish Coffee - let's not forget that Finland is the biggest consumer of coffee, people enjoying 1.262 of cups per year. The best place to try it is in Café Regatta, a countryside look-a-like shop.

(Owned Photo- The Rustic Café Regatta)

As the all top 3 cities are quite expensive, we wanted to offer more tips about Helsinki (which we already visited). All three attractions are free entrance and for traveling around the city (including ferries) you can take a daily pass for 8 euros using HSL app. Café Regatta is 100% approved by our coffee lover and the price is affordable.

Considering the article can go longer with other runner-ups: Stockholm, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Oslo and so on. Moreover, we just want mention one more city placed on 13th place: Vilnius, Lithuania.

(Owned Photo- Vilnius' view from Gediminas' Tower)

Author: Luci Modiga

Underrated places to visit in France

Traveling is more than just notorious overcrowded cities like Paris where more than 20 millions tourists from all over the World are coming per year

If you are identify yourself as a travelholic you should expand your 'Travel To Do List' beyond basic attractions such as La Tour Eiffel, L'Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame de Paris (sadly destroyed after the accident from 2019), Luvru Museum, Palace de la Bourse or Bordeaux Cathedral.

Think larger, search the touristic points where people are rarely visit and they aren't affected by Globalization. Start first with your country and the search for other countries. What places are stunningly beautiful, but still  postpone them?

Anyway, that's why we are here! To help you find the best underrated places in France. Add them in your 2020 Resolution, they are 100% approved by a local!

1. Le Mont Saint-Michel, Normandie:

This one is for people how are still preferring popular places, but not well-known about foreigners. Located in the region Normandie, this place can be reached by a train ride of 1.5 h from Paris-Rennes and then a bus ride until the island.

You should keep in mind that Le Mont Saint-Michael isn't a fabricated tourist destination, the Abbey/Monastery has 44 inhabitants including monks and  nuns.

Since 966, this monastic building nicknamed "The Marvel" was supported by the dukes for Normandie and and France kings and develop over the time.

(Photo by Cybevasion)

Hopefully, you are in a good shape, because you had a lot of stairs to climb, but first stop for a nourishing meal at the entrance of the King's Gate for traditional omelettes and crepes at La Mère Poulard.

Other sites to visit: walk along the ramps from Porte Échauguette to Terrase de l'Ouest which offers a stunning panorama over the bay, visit the museum around the village before checking the Abbey from the top, walk on the Grande Rue, visit the parish church of Saint-Pierre, the monuments and the statue of Saint-Michel from cemetery.

(Photo by Voyages Michelin)

2. International Garden Fetsival Chaumont-sur-Loire:

Another kind of festival! The Domaine of Chaumont-sur-Loire hosts each year between April and November ( the official date of staring still known for this year) an international festival with different theme created by famous designers.

Best to visit in the spring time, the gardens are detached from Heaven, literally 2019 theme was 'Paradise Gardens' and for this year the theme is: 'Gardens of the Earth return to Mother Earth' and it will cover 20 plots each measuring 210 m2, that means more than 42 football fields. Colossal!!!

(Photo by Domaine-Chaumont)

Just note that the gardens are full of exotics and rare plants and flowers like e beautiful Exotic Botanic Forest and you can also visit the castle and the parks surrounding.

(Photo by Jardins-de-France)

3. Collioure, Côte Vermeille:

"Attention les yeux!"

This one is my favourite so far. Located in the Southern France and just 30 km away form the Spanish border this hidden gem is dominated by two outstanding sights: Notre-Dame-des-Ages, a medieval bell tower of a church used before also as a lighthouse and a huge fortress called Château Royal, holder of important several European Royal families.

The city is considered having a romantic vibe due to its colorful narrow streets as Moré. The destination also attracted and hold several artistic activities, being visited by famous personalities: Pablo Piccaso, Salvadore Dali, etc.

As for the food, the Mediterranean influence is predominant and cuisine is based on see food, anchovies, mussels, etc. 

(Photo by Le Bon Guide: Notre-Dame-des-Ages view)

4. Millevaches Regional Nature Park in Limousin:

Getting closer to nature, here you can find The Vassivière lake, one of the largest artificial lakes of France covered by hiking paths and forest beaches for people who love peaceful landscapes.

The most important touristic facility is Beaumont-du-Lac, a cultural information point designed as castle that offers accommodation and different activities such as:  boating,, wind-surfing, fishing, canoeing, pedalos rides and nature and heritage tours.

(Photo by Gites-de-France)

The traditional cuisine includes: clafuotis (a baked dessert originally with dark cherries), flognarde (from the same family with claufotis, a dessert made with apples), ceusois cake (fullfilled with hazelnuts and butter), potée limousine (stew seasoned with a mix of vegetables) and pâté aux pommes de terre (a potatoes pie full of garlic and shallots).

(Photo by BBC-Clafuotis)

5. La Circue de Navacelle, Occitanie:

For nature lovers, this places is located just 1 hour from Montpellier and can be reach by the bus line 301/381.

Under the UNESCO Heritage Site, this place is a steep canyon covered by mountainside. This destination is also perfect for baking or car trips, but be careful as the road are very narrow and dangerous.

In your way you can check different attractions such as: the old fortified farm at la Prunarede, the Roc Castle le Caylar, the open landscape of the Causse and the fortified wells of Saint-Michel-d’Alajou.

Everything you want to plan can be found in the official site, including hiking tours, accommodation and how to access the location by foot, car, bus, motors or bikes:The Official Site.

 (Photo by David Meaux)

Author: Luci Modiga

New Year's traditions around the World!

Let's go Worldwide and explore the New Year traditions from different countries!

Before getting ready for New Year party and celebrate the best achievements for the past year, take a look at some traditions that might be fun to do it with your friends and family during the New Year's Day!

We can begin the countdown of these 10 countries together:

10. One Christmas, Two New Years and Three Presents! This thing is only possible in Russia, given that their official Christmas is celebrated on a different date, 7th of January and the "Old New Year" date is on 14th. If you didn't guess it until now, the most important celebration for them is New Year when everyone is placing under the Christmas Tree all the gifts to open them in the first day of the Year. Sharing is caring and they are taking this expression seriously.

9. Not enough wishes for New Year? Go to Colombia and you can eat 12 grapes at each chime and and make 12 wishes in 12 seconds! Even if most countries, red is the diva color for wishing good luck on this day, the New Year color and item to wear for this nation is: a pair of new, clean and yellow underwear that will bring you love and happiness in the future.

(Photo by Fiveprime)

8. Moving to the German side: they have a "ritual" where most of the people are watching a black and white British movie named "Dinner for one" on the New Year's Night. Besides that you can find the Lead Puring Custom:  an ancient tradition when people are melting the metal named lead in fire and throw them in water for creating shapes believed that are predicted the New Years' future. However, this traditions is now illegal due to environmental issues!

(Photo by NPR- lead shapes)

7. In Japan, this day is translated as Shogatsu, having the highest importance during the year. On the NY's Eve they eat buckwheat noodles which symbolize longevity and watch a music show "Hohaku uta gassen" with most famous J-pop and enka singers and later they are admiring the sunrise, representative moment for predicting the whole new year. A brighter sunrise will mean a better one.

(Photo by Yakei Kabemagi)

6. As for Romania, the 50% who is not partying, are watching a show with a famous TV host, Dan Negru. No matter if we are talking about uninterrupted hours of entertainment or parties, you should keep in mind that they have a special name for this day: "Revelion" and during the night they used to hold in the pockets mistletoe for fertility, money for prosperity and a red thing for luck. Moreover, on 1st of Jan. children are telling good regards for people and throwing rice on them for good luck and in exchange they receive money.

5. Watch your head on the streets of Greece as you might be hit by plates. This is an unusual custom where people are throwing and smashing plates for celebration and destroying the bad luck. And don't get chock while you eat a cake, since Vasilopita is a tradition where a coin is hidden in a special cake and the luckiest member of family who will find it, will be blessed for the whole year.

(Photo by Listverse)

4. Swimming in The Loony Dook might be the looniest tradition in Scotland and around the world. On 1st of January thousand of people are gathering together in fancy dresses to jump into the icy water of  the Firth of Forth, located a few miles of the capital. Moreover, a parade a swinging fireballs can be found in Stonehaven at the strike of midnight.

 

(Photo by The Herald)

3. Turn on the lights, open the doors and go outside! No, there is not a thief in your house. This is a custom in Portugal exhibited at midnight in order to step with the right foot in the New Year. Literally, they are going back in the house stepping with the right foot for luck. Do you want to make it easier? Just jump three times in one leg with a glass of Champagne at 12 AM.

2. Apart from the usual traditions, in Slovakia people are having trips to mountains to reconnect with the nature. The slovakians are also having parades where they are wearing odd masks and dresses while singing and clapping through all the procession or they are just simply making loud noises for welcoming the New Year. So if your 2019 was awful, just go nuts in the mountains and scream with us for a better future!

1. Moving further, if you love Satire, you should celebrate your New Year in Iceland as they have a special show named Skaupið which makes fun of all the events from the preceding year. Another option would be to warm yourself around community bonfires which are organized each year as a cleansing ritual for all the sins and bad things that happened in the past. 

(Photo from Pinterest)

Island life of Greece

Island life of Greece

Why do I say “Island life”? If you know some basic geography, you know Greece it’s a peninsular country and that they also have about 6,000 islands and about 227 of them are inhabited, if not, now you know and also, this is why I say “Island life”.

Photo by: Bob Bain

Starting with some interesting facts, I have about 10 to share with you:
1. The official name is actually Hellenic Republic;
2. Geeks say “Ναι” (Nea) for “Yes” and “Οχι” (Ochi) for “No”; This can be a little confusing for the first time when you hear it.
3. Greek time - this concept is about how they see time. Greek people are never in a hurry, they take time, enjoy life, smell the roses. So when a Greek person tells you 5 minutes, that would mean 10-15 minutes. But careful, that doesn’t apply to buses, train, plane, ferry schedule. That is the normal time, if it says at 5 PM is going to be 5 PM;
4. Summer - this is the time of year when tourists outnumber Greeks, so yeah it’s very crowded, but it’s also peaceful;
5. If you want to build a building in Athens, you have to have an archaeology team there, cause is very possible to stumble upon some ruins;
6. Geek language is the oldest written language that is still used;
7. They have 4000 traditional dances;

Photo by: Ef Tzan

8. The word “Barbarian” comes from an old Greek word “Barbaroi” and means someone that doesn’t speak Greek, because they sounded like animals saying “bra-bra-bra”. Some Old Greek humor I think;
9. They love coffee, all day, at any time, coffee it’s savurated. Never drink it fast! The coffee is so good that you can’t blame them;
10. They have snow in winter, yes, the country where it's always sunny and good weather has snow. In the northern part of the country and in the mountains you can actually go skiing.

Photo by: Aleka Thomaidou

I will stop here with the fun facts, ‘cause they are a lot of interesting things, but we have to talk about other things too, like the people.
Geeks are known for their hospitality, they are very warm and welcoming people, happy and friendly people. They will help you with whatever they can, they will even invite you into their homes and treat you with some drinks, food they would even offer you to stay if they like you that much.
As I said they have their own time, so they are never in a rush and always taking time to enjoy the moment. But don’t be fooled, they are party people. There is always a wedding, baptism, festivals, social events, national days and any other excuses to party, name days, which are even more important than the birthday. And they know how to party, the night life in Greece is something that you should never skip on.
Greeks are also very proud of their heritage, history and they are proud people in general, and very passionate, when they speak, they speak with their hole body, gestures, expressions, all has to be there, also most of the population speaks English and they have such a nice accent.

Photo by: Toozler

For Greeks, family is extremely important, they live in the same house with parents, grandparents, families of the brothers and sisters under the same roof. Their houses are even built to hold this kind of family arrangements.
Greek fashion and style, from what I can see, here is a place where all the fakery, the heavy make-up and uncomfortable clothes are something that doesn’t really happen. The women go for a more natural look, clothes are more comfortable and flowy. And why would you try to be in something uncomfortable when you can in any moment to sunbathe, or even go for a swim.
We all know this is a beloved destination for tourists from all around the world and the very famous destinations like Tessaloniki, Athen are always overcrowded. But I encourage you to be different and go where almost no one goes. To give you some inspiration try Evia, Paros, Antiparos, and you Game of Thrones fans you should try Nafplio, there are some GOT vibes that you will very much enjoy.
Do you feel a little bit hungry ?
Well let me tell you something that will make you crave to eat some Geek food today. We all know about their food. Is so famous, and extremely delicious. Everything is fresh, with a combination of spices and flavors. It’s a delight if you are vegan, vegetarian, a seafood person, or a meat lover. There is something for every soul, the portions are big and Greek diet is considered to be one of the most healthiest.

Photo by: Bokor.Istvan

One Greek costume at taverns, restaurants when you ask for the bill they will bring you some alcohol, fruits or sweets, for free and then after they will bring you the bill. No, it’s not a dream, they do that.
I want to tell you about the street food, this is totally something that you should try too. If you are in the Athens visiting the ruins and leaving some history you can also go to:
1. Kastarelos Deli, a family business that is famous for their products especially Feta Cheese;
2. Cheese pies is also something that you have to try and Mam is considered to be one of the best places from where to try this. This little and classic place is one of the best;
3. Bougatsopoleio Lazaros - a place where you can watch how they make traditional Phyllo, a crunchy dough with multiple types of filling;
4. Kostas is a place that it’s a must, the locals say that this is one of the best places to eat one of the very famous and delicious Greek street foods you just have to try, Souvlaki.

Photo by: Exis

So that was all about Greece, I invite Greece audience to comment and tell me if I make a mistake.
Good luck in 2020!

Author: Ana Mocanu

Celebrating christmas in Romania!

The most wonderful time of the year in Romanian way

First of all, let’s do a little Geography lesson.

So Romania is a pretty big country and has 9 regions where the culture it’s different because is was invaded so many times and depending on the region you see the influence of other cultures.

Photo from: wikipedia.org

We can say Romania it’s a beautiful mix, but they all share something special and unique in the world.

So you can imagine this cultures in a single country they have a lot to offer in the holiday time.

Most of this traditions can’t be found in the cities, they are kept alive in the rural area and they are worth experiencing. 

Something every region has them almost in the same way. 

1. In all regions all Romanians do the tradition of “Ignat” when men, from the same family or between friends, sacrifice a pig and they prepare and share the goods. May seem barbaric but it’s a fun time for drinking, discussions and doing something to help the household.

2. Caroling is something you can heard and seen everywhere, but there are different songs and different ways, different dances. In some regions the hole village get’s out to carol each other, in others just the kids, or the men. The idea of caroling in Romania is to thank God for the year and to celebrate the birth of Christ. It’s a colorful and interesting thing to see, because everyone wears traditional costumes some also wear masks. 

Also this is near the New Year the transition is to go with the Goat and the Bear. Basically some people are dressing up in these animals to scare the bad spirit and bad vibes away, to enter the new year clean of bad feelings, thoughts and just be joyful and full of hope.

Photos by: Adina, Dana, Adevarul

3. And you go to the Church, if you live in a rural area, it's a must, you are going to the church and not only for God but also to have the feeling of community and the Christmas spirit because this of the time to be together.

Photo from: Via Transylvania

There are lots of other rituals, very different from region to region, but they are so many I can’t really say it all. Some of them are without any sense like making a mixture with holy water and flowers and for 7 days before Christmas you have to spread it everywhere, or hitting the fire with a rod and making an incantation. Some are just fun like dancing and singing from house to house. 

Anyhow, it’s not really a thing to talk about, because this should be seen, experienced and enjoyed. It’s all for the soul, feeling good and clean, togetherness, God and Christ, and for having fun. 

Romania is pretty big on Christmas Markets. In cities such as Bucharest, Oadea, Piatra Neamț, Timișoara, Brașov, Cluj-Napoca and Sibiu, Sibiu being the best one according to this year’s ranking. 

But all this market are pretty big and you can find hand made, natural and traditional gifts crafted by local from around the cities like: decorations, toys, jams, drinks, traditional objects and clothes, food, all you can imagine and also things that you don’t expect.

Photo by: True Romania, momondo

We’ve reached the subject you all love us for drinks ...FOOD, glorious food. 

On Christmas, the table it’ full of delicious, mouth-watering food. Lost of foods were taken from other cultures, but all of them have the romanin element in them, because romanians have their own way to cook and enjoy the food. 

So on every table you will find: 

a. Salată de Boeuf - cold salad, with potatoes, carrots, pickles, meat, and mayo;

b. Sarmale - meat, usually pork wrapped in cabbage with spices;

c. A variety of pork products - tobă, caltaboș, piftie, chișcă, cârnați;

d. Cozonac - a cake with cacao, turkish delight, nuts , that you will die for. 

As for drinks you will find:

a.Wine - red, rose, white;

b. Țuică - which is a pretty strong alcohol;

c. Pălincă - usually very strong and hits you pretty good;

d. Vișinată/afinată/zmeurată - these are alcohol made by fermenting berries and have a sweet taste, but don’t let them fool you, they are still an alcoholic.

Photo by: ParrorcchiaCarmineUd

Don’t worry if you are a vegetarian you won’t starve here, even though the population is mostly a meat lover, they also know how to make a vegetarian version of Salată de Boeuf, Sarmale and other delicious foods.

Photo by: Romania Libera

So if you want to travel for Christmas next year I strongly encourage you to go to Romania and be a witness of this beautiful and colorful traditions.

That’s all from me, I hope you have a Merry Christmas and a good year! 

Author: Ana Mocanu

Why is Austria so special?

WHY IS AUSTRIA

SO SPECIAL?

Austria is a very special and unique country, even if is similar to Germany, at the same time so different. For starters, Austrian German it's different from Germany German.
So, I will tell you some facts and also something from my experience in this beautiful place.

Photo by Nadja MH

1. Most of the country it’s being a part of the Alps, the highest point being in Mount Grossglockner with 3,798 meters.
2. Austria is well known for Alpine Skiing, this being the most prominent sport here and they are the ones who invented numerous modern-day skiing and techniques for skiing. Here you can go in small quaint pretty villages and learn and enjoy the ways of skiing.

   

   Photo by  Alec Macias

3. Is a neutral country, even though is part of the European Union, is not part of NATO. So peace and understanding can be the motto of this country. they have their own army and young man and women go and have the training before or after University.
4. They have the oldest Zoo in the world, the Schoenbrunn Zoo, opened in 1752. It’s one of the few zoos that can host the Giant Panda and here it’s the first zoo where an elephant was born in captivity and where the first Panda was born by natural insemination in all of Europe.
5. This country has the world's longest ice cavern, World of Ice Giants. And it’s an AMAZING place to see, it’s such a stunning proof that nature is an artist. Highly recommend!

   

   Photo by  Maria Barrena

6. It’s home to a lot of great musical composers like Mozart, Johann Strauss, Joseph Haydn, Franz Schubert, even Beethoven who was born in Germany but he lived many years in Austria composing music.
7. Talking about Mozart. There is a big Mozart obsession at gift shops, everything is Mozart tissues, bells, magnets etc. But I recommend you to try Mozart Chocolate, believe me, it’s so good.

   

   Photo by  wolfgangphoto

8. In Vienna, the capital city you can find one of the largest emeralds. The city is pretty much a UNESCO zone due to its great importance in history and culture.
9. They have different dialects within the country. 
10. The Battle of Vienna was the pinnacle moment of the Ottoman and Habsburg war which lasted more than 300 years. This Battle has the largest human cavalry charge in human history with over 20,000 Austrian, German and Polish cavalry who fought with the Turks. and there are two more interesting things linked to this battle.
11. They are a coffee loving country. It’s believed that after the Battle of Vienna Turks left bags and barrels of coffee. And then the love for this black and good elixir began.
12. This is the country that invented the croissant, yes, I know you thought it was France. It's all because, after the battle the population celebrated their victory making bread in the shape of the crescent that are on the Ottoman flag. It’s believed that Maria Antoinette who was born in Austria, Vienna made the croissant famous when she introduced pastries to France. 

    

    Photo by FEELguide

13. First Nobel laureate of Austria was the first woman to be nominated and win The Nobel Peace Prize. The second woman to win a Nobel prize and that woman was Bertha von Suttner, the author of “Lay down your weapons” and the reason that there is a Peace Prize because of her friendship and influence on Alfred Nobel.

    

    Photo by  The World of Habsgurgs

14. They created the waltz, a high society dance. Some say that a good waltz it's all you need to fall in love.
15. You can spend an entire summer in Austria just to see all that there is to see without getting bored. There are many natural and historical attractions worth seeing.
16. They have a lot of thermal waters so you may say it’s the land of health and well-being. Fun thing, like the Summer Sled.
17. If you are a lover of shiny crystals and pretty things the Swarovski factory and museum it's amazing, you can see sculptures made from this, a room with crystal mirrors, and all that you can imagine made with Swarovski. everything it's so shiny, a dream land for anyone.

    

    Photo by Renato Morichetti

18. Maybe you heard what happened in Hallstatt recently, the fire was very quick spread because the houses are very close together and 109 firefighters were send to stop it. The cause it's not known yet, but one thing it's for sure. The houses will be rebuilt in the original way because the world won't lose this UNESCO heritage site.

I’ve been in Austria for the first time at age 14 and since then I’ve been there several times after that, and I can tell you that this is my soul country. It's enlightening, the culture, the people, maybe at some point I will get to leave there for a wile.

It’s the first county I traveled to, the country that made me want to see more of this world.
The diversity of cultures, that came to leave here in harmony, just amazes me every time I go there.

You just have to try it by yourself and you will see the wonders that wait for each and everyone of you.

That's all I can say, have a great day! Author: Ana Mocanu

How to be part of the French culture? Music festivals, sweets, cheese and more.

Most probably you are identify yourself as a french lover culture or if not, you are here to discover more about France as a country

If you know the basic common words for living or traveling in this country, heard about the great singer Edith Piaf or know about the mass-attractions as Louvre Museum and La Tour Eiffel, you discover the first steps for getting much closer to this culture, but what about music, gastronomy, underrated attraction and traditions?

The old french hits can be omitted when it comes to this country, but if you want to be seen as an inhabitant you can modern songs as Fréro Delavega - Ton visage, Les Frangines - Donnez-moi, Vitaa & Slimane - Ça va ça vient, GIMS & Stinge - Reste or Angèle - Balance Ton Quoi. And because we know this is not is not enough we will present you the best two music festival in France:

1. Les Eurockéennes: international festival which takes place in the gorgeous green peninsula Belfort, close to Swiss border. The festival brings together rock, indie, dance or pop music with popular artist such as: The Chainsmokers and Slash. (2020: 2-5 July)

(Photo by Le Monde)

2. Les Vieilles Charrues: taking place in a natural amphitheatre named Carhaix, the festival gathers rock and up-and-coming artist from all over the world as: Martin Garrix and David Guetta. (2020: 16-19 July)

(Photo by Dieci)

After the artistic part of France you might be hungry and feel the urge try some french delicacies. One  custom different from other countries it's having a bowl of coffee in the morning next to some slices of bread of pastries.

The desserts are something that shouldn't be avoid no matter if you are traveling in the country or want to cook at home. Check on your list the following ones: Mousse au Chocolat, Crème caramel, Soufflé, Crème brûlée and Tarte Tatin.

(Photo by Modern Honey-Mousse au Chocolat)

Of course, you heard about before about the wine testing with cheese and grapes, but what you have a limited budget and you want to buy the cheese from supermarket and taste it at your accommodation together with your friends? Our expert says you should definitely try: 

1. Bûche de chèvre: costs around 2 euros and can be cooked for making pancakes, pizza or pie.

(Photo by Gourmet Food World)

2. Comté: a A.O.P cheese (labeled, traditional and certified). A smaller piece can cost 3 euros and entire one around 30 euros. Used in: salad, pasta or to make traditional emmental rapé that is used in different dishes.

(Photo by Sobey)

3. Roquefort: around 3 euros, specific used for cooking ravioli with nuts or eaten with bread.

(Photo by Business Insider)

4. Perail Lou Perac and Comembert: around 2 euros, usually, they are not used for cooking, but eating with bread or without anything. Although, Camembert can be cooked in oven with honey together creating the perfect mouthwatering mix.

(Photo by France Export FV, Lou Perac and Igourmet, Camembert)

5. Reblochon (de savoie): a winter cheese around 3.5 euros, used for cooking the flavoursome croziflette and tartiflette.

(Photo by The Food Market) 

Don't forget that each price can vary depending on the brand.

In the end, try to avoid the over-crowded cities like Paris or Bordeaux and take a vacation in underrated places. Which ones? Stay close and you will find out in the next articles. Our time is finished, so be ready for the countryside and seaside of France.