Europe is an amazing continent. Europe is one of the top tourism destinations in the world. The world’s second smallest continent is the world’s most visited regional destination.
Are you planning a romantic getaway trip to Paris? Do you want to feel the majestic strength of the ancient Roman civilization with an Italy vacation? Do your relaxing travel plans consist of seeing art, architecture, castles, and cathedrals? “Travel Holland” has a nice ring to it. Would you visit the countryside or go to Amsterdam for the nightlife? Did you just graduate and are now planning to backpack around Europe?
Explore Europe vacation ideas further:
Would you like to travel to the European continent? Be inspired by our guide to Europe or pick a country in this continent. Europe is one of the top tourism destinations in the world. The world’s second smallest continent is the world’s most visited regional destination.
Are you planning a romantic getaway trip to Paris? Do you want to feel the majestic strength of the ancient Roman civilization with an Italy vacation? Do your relaxing travel plans consist of seeing art, architecture, castles, and cathedrals? “Travel Holland” has a nice ring to it. Would you visit the countryside or go to Amsterdam for the nightlife? Did you just graduate and are now planning to backpack around Europe?
Early History
Home to years of history, which stretched far and wide. Due to the characteristic weather, the earliest explorers completely bypassed the area. The first settlement in the area was founded 1770 as a mission community. In addition to the mission, a military fort was built.Upon gaining independence, the area grew quickly. The old system gradually came to an end and private ownership of land became common. The first significant settlement on the outside of the area. As the new settlement gradually grew, a street plan developed and became attractive to settlers. Over the next years, the area officially became part of the surrounding country.The area began to explode in population with many immigrants seeking fortunes, creating one of the largest imigrant populations. During this time, many large organizations and businesses grew and did very well. With all this success came quick growth and city planning and infrastructure were necessary. This led to better living conditions and many good years.
Later Growth
In the 1890’s, a large campaign began to improve the city, the success of which led to a renaming. In 1901, a natural disaster changed the city and a fire destroyed much of the area. The decision was made to start a rebuilding plan for the city, with new parks and landmarks.After the Great Depression of the 1930’s, the city was mostly unharmed. It was during this time that government construction projects were conceived and built. It was also this time the government established a prison which would hold some of the most notorious criminals of the time.After World War II, the city continued to grow in size and population. Planning projects at the time led to more downtown buildings and the destruction of many neighborhoods to build roads. In the same period, the city became a center of cultural movement, contributing to the current outlook.
Recent History
More recently, the city has has experienced a boom in business and population. Despite falling victim to the economic trouble, the city’s economy mostly recovered and neighborhoods continue to survive. Today the city is known for its cultural outlook and remains one of the top tourist destinations. Tourism is the city’s largest industry.
Getting Around
A perfect city for exploring on foot with a shop around every corner. Much of the inner city can be walked without trouble, however, in parts walking include crowds, uneven streets, heavy traffic, and skinny sidewalks. If that’s a problem, there are plenty of taxi’s to ride in and scooters to rent.
Things to See
Take a look at each of our stunning locations and imagine yourself there:
Lakes and Mountains
Stay in our four star lakeside accommodation, whether you choose one of our log chalets or a contemporary apartment, you will look over stunning views of the valley. Perhaps go for a gentle stroll around the local village, a refreshing swim in the beautifully clear lake or a more energetic mountain walk or bike ride. You could also try out some of the exciting water sports on offer and after all of that you won’t be able to resist the delicious local cuisine at one of the traditional local eateries.
Beautiful Beaches
Our luxurious five star beach houses open their doors on to the expansive warm white sand that leads down to the stunning turquoise sea. There are restaurants, bars and cafes lining the sea front or if you can’t bear to leave the stunning view from your accommodation you can order from our gourmet menu, which will be delivered to you by our silver service staff. While you are here we also recommend you book one of our pamper sessions and take a dip in the mineral pool.
Country Life
Our smallest and cutest resort is nestled into the rolling countryside on a working farm. The self-catering accommodation ranges from a cosy six bedroom farm house to quaint one bedroom apartments in the barn conversion. If you like the idea of getting stuck into farm life you can help collect the eggs in the morning and in return can take some for your own breakfast. You can also experience milking cows and feeding the animals. The onsite farm shop sells everything you need for the perfect cooked breakfast and the local town is home to a number of independent shops and a pub or two. You will also be perfectly situated to explore a number of the local walks.
Where to Start
If you have decided you have had enough and need to get away next week or maybe sooner, we offer last minute deals at all of our resorts (dependent on availability).How does a dream holiday for as little as $275* per person, per week, sound? Well, if you book a week or less in advance then this deal could be yours.Are you willing to take a real gamble and book the day before you leave? If so, how about a week at one of our beautiful resorts for just $100* per person? We know, a crazy price!*Prices do not include travel and Terms and Conditions apply.
Getting Around
A perfect city for exploring on foot with a shop around every corner. Much of the inner city can be walked without trouble, however, in parts walking include crowds, uneven streets, heavy traffic, and skinny sidewalks. If that’s a problem, there are plenty of taxi’s to ride in and scooters to rent.
How to Travel
- Subway – The metro is the fastest transportation. Running 5am to 10pm every day.
- Bus & Train – Operated by an independent organization, busses and trains include wifi access for the public. You can take any bus or train marked with the (B Public) sign for free.
- Taxi – Available in all parts of the city. From a restaurant or hotel you can have them call the city taxi service.
- Car – Rental cars are easy to get and hotels have good parking prices. Once in the main city, you can often walk so we suggest returning the when you arrive.
- Bike – The best way to get around, other than walking, is by bike. If you don’t mind hills, you can bike anywhere. If that’s not for you, stick to the inner city with your bike.
Mini Trips
Just a few miles away you can explore the history and legacy, drink wine and relax. You can wander the hills or be lulled by the fountains. If you have time, the attractions can fill 3 days. We’ve highlighted the best ones here.
Tours
Because of the number of sights to see, some first-time visitors should start with an organized tour. Some things can be covered in depth, other are just useful for getting your bearings. The leading tour operators use local historians to lead their tours. Guides offer walking tours, including visits to monuments, museums, and historic locations, as well as eating tours. Tour prices can be high, but most participants consider them a trip highlight. In addition, there are many family related tours, sights and more appealing activities to children. Walking tours, like the 3 hour ghost tour, is an exclusive in the early evening. A bus excursion ruins special tours like you’ve never seen. Also worth consideration, a group of art historians and architects do a theatrical retelling from dramatic scripts. Go on a tour, expect guides to break out into a rendition of “Singing in the Rain”, it’s a lot of fun.