Albania in EU: Eastern European nation steps closer to joining bloc after judicial reform

Adrian Callaghan

Albania has passed a benchmark towards EU accession talks

The impoverished eastern European country has agreed a new law to check the personal and professional backgrounds of judges and prosecutors in a move to convince Brussels to launch membership negotiations.

At the moment Albania is a candidate country to join the EU, meaning formal accession talks can only be opened once it proves it has put in place the social reforms required by the rest of Europe. 

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An investigation by Express.co.uk earlier this year found huge support amongst Albanians for EU membership, with many saying Britain would be their dream destination if it maintains free movement post-Brexit. 

The country, which has a population of just under three million, is one of the poorest in Europe and has sky high unemployment rates. It's benefits system hands out up to £780 a year, compared to Britain's £26,000.

Adrian Callaghan

The country is poor and unemployment is high

Adrian Callaghan

Many Albanians describe the UK as their dream destination

And now it has taken a step closer to gaining access to the EU after its 140-seat parliament voted to pass the new judicial reforms this week. 

The law, prepared with help from EU and US experts and reviewed by the Council of Europe's Venice Commission, allows authorities to check the incomes and property holdings of judges and prosecutors and their professional backgrounds.

It is part of a bid, required by the EU, to restructure the judicial system to ensure that judges and prosecutors are independent from politics, and to root out bribery.

Investigation: Albania is set to join the EU

Earlier this year Express.co.uk heard how the country offers its youths bleak employment prospects, has thousands of unregistered 'street families' and a Government branded 'corrupt' by its people. 

Albanians told how youngsters have left the country in droves, searching across the continent for work, and said they are counting on Britain and other EU nations to save it.

Some use the EU Schengen Agreement for visa free travel to make their way to Italy and Germany to work cash in hand, while others risk illegal passage to the UK.

The situation in the nation in so dire, most families have split up with children leaving the country as soon as they are able.

Albania is one of seven countries hoping to join the EU in the near future, which have a combined population of almost 100 million people.

Related articles
Source: Albania in EU: Eastern European nation steps closer to joining bloc after judicial reform

News story: UK remains number one investment destination in Europe

record number of inward investment projects into the UK in 2015 to 2016

annual figures also reveal investments generated second highest number of jobs ever

UK is the top European destination for investment from emerging markets

Britain has benefitted from record-breaking inward investment by foreign companies, International Trade Secretary Liam Fox has announced.

Across the country, 2,213 inward investment projects were secured in 2015 to 2016, an 11% increase on the previous year. This lead to around 116,000 jobs being created or safeguarded - the second highest number on record.

Almost 1,600 new jobs a week were created by foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2015 to 2016. UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), now part of the Department for International Trade (DIT), helped to secure 4 out of 5 of the projects that created these jobs. Since 2010, nearly 390,000 new jobs have been created through foreign direct investment in the UK.

The department has recorded more foreign direct investment projects than ever before and, according to the EY UK Attractiveness Survey, the UK's strong performance sees it retain its spot as the number one place in Europe for foreign investment.

Responsible for promoting British trade across the world, DIT helps secure investment from overseas companies for projects in the UK. The department's annual FDI figures are based on UK job creation and number of projects secured.

International Trade Secretary, Liam Fox, said:

These impressive results show the UK continues to be the place to do business.

We've broadened our reach with emerging markets across the world to cement our position as the number one destination in Europe for investment. This continued vote of confidence in the UK will help attract foreign investment to create jobs, security and opportunities for people across the UK.

Dr Adam Marshall, Acting Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, said:

Keeping the UK attractive to overseas investors is important for our future success. Last year's up-tick in foreign direct investment is a welcome boost to business, and a good indicator of underlying confidence in the UK economy.

As Britain approaches a time of economic change, we must continue to welcome investors that are willing to make a sustained, long-term commitment all across the country.

The USA remained the UK's largest source of inward investment providing 570 projects. This was followed by China (including Hong Kong) with 156 and India with 140.

Demonstrating the UK's attractiveness to an ever-widening pool of global investors, investments originated from a record 79 countries and the UK became the top European destination for projects from emerging markets. Projects from Latin America rose by 240% and those from Central and Eastern Europe surged by 131%.

The regions and the devolved administrations also played an important role in the UK's success:

the Northern Powerhouse saw a boost to FDI projects by nearly a quarter (24%) in 2015 to 2016

14,797 new jobs were created in the Midlands Engine – a rise of 9% from the year before

5,443 new jobs were created in Wales - an increase of 7% from the previous year - through 97 projects; in total, almost 7,000 jobs were created or safeguarded by FDI

Northern Ireland secured 33 projects, which created and safeguarded a total of 3,144 jobs with the number of jobs per project rising to 95, the highest figure in the UK

Scotland attracted 108 projects, with 5,905 jobs created or safeguarded

The department records wider types of inward investment projects, including mergers and acquisitions and those that are not publicly announced by foreign investors. Therefore, the FDI project figures reported are different from those reported by external organisations, such as EY and FT, who track FDI project flows mostly based on investment announcements. These external organisations report on calendar year, while the department's statistics are for financial year

Drawing on information from EY's UK Attractiveness Survey 2016, the Financial Times' FDI Report 2016 and OECD's FDI in Figures (2016), the UK ranks first in Europe for FDI projects in total and for FDI projects from high-growth markets.

Source: News story: UK remains number one investment destination in Europe

Splash out in Denmark or go budget-friendly in Bulgaria: Revealing the cheapest and most expensive destinations in Europe

The cost of travel to European cities vary greatly and a new study of 48 destinations reveal just how much 

Copenhagen, Denmark came out as the most expensive with a typical day costing visitors more than £300

For a cheaper alternative, head to Sunny Beach in Bulgaria where a similar experience can be found for £60 

By Qin Xie For Mailonline

Published: 05:46 EST, 29 August 2016 | Updated: 05:46 EST, 29 August 2016

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Whether you're planning a stag weekend or a last-minute romantic getaway, prices in cities across Europe vary more dramatically than the weather, so it's worth doing your research. 

For example, if you're budget conscious, you probably want to avoid costly destinations like Copenhagen. The Danish capital is one of the most expensive cities to travel within in Europe and a typical day there will set you back more than £300, including food and accommodation.

Instead, you could head to Sunny Beach in Bulgaria where a similar experience costs less than £60.

If you're budget conscious, you probably want to avoid expensive destinations like Copenhagen (above). The Danish capital is one of the most expensive cities to travel within in Europe and a typical day there will set you back more than £300

The cost of travel to Euro pean cities vary greatly and a new study of 48 destinations has revealed the average cost per day

Car-hire company Hoppa looked at the cost of travel to 48 destinations in Europe and compiled a series of infographics of their results.

They factored in average prices for hotels, food and drink, taxis and entertainment to work out an estimate of the cost per person, per day.

Copenhagen, the most expensive destination included in the study, was over £20 more costly per day than the next most expensive city - Stockholm.

London was only slightly cheaper than Stockholm at number three.

Towards the cheaper end of the holiday spots, Bulgaria's Sunny Beach offered travellers a very economical stay of £58.22 per night.

Hotels are typically the most expensive part of any trip and a night in a Copenhagen hotel could cost you just under £200

The Nordic cities have some of the most expensive drinks in Europe. Holidaying in Bulgaria, Hungary and the Czech Republic could save you a fortune in bar bills

Ostrava in the Czech Republic, at £69.27 per night, and Antalya in Turkey, at £69.51 per night, were only slightly more expensive.

Delv ing deeper, the infographic revealed the average nightly rate in a hotel.

Copenhagen was a costly £192.37 while Sunny Beach was an affordable £30.10.

Hotels in Venice, the fourth most expensive city in the list, was actually more expensive than in London at £185.70 per night.

When it comes to food and drink, Sunny Beach wins again in the economy stakes.

A typical evening out, featuring alcoholic drinks, a meal for two and a taxi ride, costs just £20.89 per person.

This is thanks to the availability of cheap beers, wines and cocktails, which are among the most affordable in Europe.

Not everyone goes to the cinema while on holiday but the very affordable ticket prices in Debrecen, Hungary, might just tempt you

A similar experience in Akureyri, Iceland, will leave you with a bill totaling more than £100.

In fact, many of the Nordic cities included in the study are found near the top of the list of expensive destinations for drinks.

If you were thinking about heading to the cinema for some after-dinner entertainment, you might want to reconsider in London where the cost of entry for two adults is a staggering £23 - and that doesn't included the popcorn.

The same film in Debrecen in Hungary will only cost £6.

Finally, the cost of getting around in a taxi can also vary greatly.

In London, the average rate is £3 per kilometre while at the cheaper end of the scale, the same journey in Moscow costs a mere 21p. 

In some cities like London it's best to turn to public transport rather than taxis. If you're in Moscow or St Petersburg thou gh, it can be very affordable to hail a cab

Source: Splash out in Denmark or go budget-friendly in Bulgaria: Revealing the cheapest and most expensive destinations in Europe

The Living is Easy in Cascais, Lisbon's Charming Coastal Neighbor

Guincho beach. All photos by Caroline Goggin.

Traveler Caroline Goggin leads us on a scenic journey through one of Portugal's small beach towns, the pictueresque Cascais, an easy day trip from Lisbon.

CASCAIS, Portugal – The first time I visited Cascais was for the wedding of a Spanish friend I met while studying abroad. Prior to the trip, all I knew about Cascais was that it was a "nice beach town" near Lisbon where the two of them had officially become a couple.

When I arrived, it was easy to see why one would want to return to such a special place. As someone who grew up in Maine, the ultimate New England summer destination (the state tagline: The Way Life Should Be), I'm a firm believer that summer months are not to be spent in cities. If I lived in Lisbon, I would escape to Cascais every chance I got.

THE SCENE

Cascais is a small, upscale beach town brimming with shops and cafes, just 30 minutes from Lisbon. The locals say Lisbon is for doing things, but Cascais is for living and relaxing. Although the coastal town is certainly slower paced, there are still plenty of things to do and explore in a few short days: wander the narrow historic streets, stop into boutiques, or take a bike ride along the coast.

LAY OF THE LAND

Downtown shops and plazas are clustered around one central beach and a small harbor of fishing boats. Stone buildings, palm trees, and tiled walkways spill out from the harbor. Shops and cafes line pedestrian streets and can also be discovered in the maze of narrow, historic lanes. Just a five- to ten-minute walk outside the center, the streets widen into shady, tree-lined residential roads with hidden estates and gardens.

Views from the bike ride to Guincho beach.

IF YOU ONLY DO ONE THING

Take a bike ride along the gorgeous, rugged coastline to Praia do Guincho, a secluded beach beloved by windsurfers and kiteboarders for the strong winds and crashing surf. A bike path runs from Cascais all the way to Guincho, seven kilometers up the coast (which takes about 45-minutes without stops).

There are several scenic stopping points along the way, including Boca do Inferno (the 'devil's mouth') — a chasm in the seaside cliffs right outside town. The ride, which can be gusty at times, is invigorating and offers incredible views better appreciated in the fresh air than from a car.

Once at the beach, take a stroll on the sand or enjoy a refreshing drink at Bar do Guincho while taking in the view. For the adventurous, there is a school located on the beach for surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing lessons.

Free bicycles are available downtown or for rent from shops in the marina.

View of the Castle of the Moors.

Eye-catching vivid colors at Pena Palace.

WHAT TO DO

Wander the ShopsCascais is the perfect place for doing nothing. Simply wander the streets, peruse little shops, or sit on a bench looking out onto the fishing boats bobbing in the harbor.

See the Coastline from SeaIf you're interested in taking an afternoon boat ride, there's no need to book through a tourist agency. Just wander down to the docks and begin asking around; you're sure to find a captain who is willing to take you out for a few hours so you can admire the seaside cliffs and take a quick swim. My friends and I ended up on a powerboat that comfortably fit ten people, went out for two to three hours, and were provided with complimentary wine, beer, and snacks for the entire afternoon (€250).

Swim by Farol de Santa MartaAs you follow the coast westward out of town (in the same direction as the bike path to Guincho), you'll cross a small footbridge. To your left is the lighthouse Farol de Santa Marta; below is a calm, shallow inlet of water perfect for taking a dip in seclusion.

Enjoy a Sunset Cocktail Overlooking the HarborThe sunsets in Cascais are stunning, and the rooftop of Hotel Baia offers a perfect place to sip on a cocktail while watching the day dip slowly into night.

Take a Day Trip to SintraSintra is an easy day trip from either Cascais or Lisbon. In the mountains high above the village are a cluster of castles, the gem of which is the vividly colored Pálacio Nacional da Pena. Adjacent to the Pena Palace is the Moorish Castle (2710 Sintra; +351-21-923-7300), ruins surrounded by natural gardens in a beautiful state of disrepair. It is truly a hike to get up to the castles, so wear comfortable shoes. Sintra has its own microclimate that can bring a chilly fog, so bring a light jacket as well. You'll want to spend at least a half-day exploring here — go early in the day to beat the heat and crowds. Pro tip to make your Instagram pics pop: choose an outfit with bold patterns to compliment the geometric arches and intricate tiled walls you're sure to pose in front of.

Try the GinjinhaGinjinha (ginja) is a sour cherry liqueur, made from morello cherries, sugar and sometimes cinnamon. It is a traditional Portuguese liqueur and is easily found in dozens of bars and cafes. Ask for your shot with ('com') or without ('sem') cherries in the bottom of the glass. Sometimes you will find it served in a chocolate cup, which is a bit touristy but also delicious, so who's to complain?

Pool and garden area at Casa Vela Guest House.

WHERE TO STAY

Casa Vela Guest HouseThis bed and breakfast is a little oasis in what is already a beautiful town. From the moment I stepped through the front gate and for the entire duration of my stay, I felt as though I was truly being welcomed into another's home. The property is made up of the 'old house' and the 'new house' (of modern design). Each of the fifteen suites are uniquely decorated and named for Portuguese discoveries and the spice trade. The breakfast terrace overlooks tiers of gardens and stone stairways that lead down to a sprawling pool and portico. Even at full capacity of 40 guests, it feels like your own private, relaxing residence. (€85-€115 and up, depending on the season).

Pestana Cidadela CascaisFor the luxury traveler, this hotel is located in a historic fort just a five or ten minutes from the harbor. Jetlagged guests will find a chill experience in the spa or indoor pool, which is covered by a skylight and flanked by glass doors that open up to a deck overlooking the marina. The hotel has an outdoor pool, set back in a grassy garden at the top of the fort that overlooks the sea. Every day here starts with a beautiful view, as the complimentary breakfast buffet is served in a spacious dining room overlooking the marina (€200 and up, depending on season).

More budget-conscious travelers can find a small selection of Airbnbs and hostels around town.

WHERE TO EAT

There are dozens of casual bars and cafes serving typical Portuguese dishes, but O Cantinho da Belinha (Av. Vasco da Gama 133; +351-21-482-2504) is a local favorite. The restaurant is hidden away from tourists and can be easily missed if not for the colorful flags strung across the garden patio. It doesn't look like much at first glance, but has a welcoming, rustic atmosphere and selection of freshly caught fish and traditional dishes at a fair price.

Unexpectedly, one of the best meals we enjoyed in Cascais was at Masala (R. Frederico Arouca 288; +351-21-486-5334), an Indian restaurant on one of the main downtown streets. Maybe it was because we arrived both ravenous and a little tipsy, but it was truly one of the best Indian meals I've had anywhere outside India. The food was delicious, the service was outstanding (they kept the kitchen open late to accommodate us, and brought out blankets when they noticed a chill), and the naan portions were plentiful.

HOW TO GET THERE

Portugal remains one of the most affordable European countries, and flights to and from Lisbon are noticeably less expensive than other cities like Paris and Rome. Lisbon is serviced by several international airlines, making it an easy stop if your itinerary includes multiple European destinations.

Cascais is 30 minutes outside Lisbon by car (an Uber costs approximately €20-30) or train. Trains (approximately €2.15 per person) from Lisbon depart from Cais du Sodre train station every twenty minutes and follow the scenic coastline, stopping in little beach towns along the way. Sit on the left side of the train for the best views. Once you arrive in Cascais, the bustling downtown streets are just steps outside the station.

GETTING AROUND

Once in Cascais, it's best to explore the small town on foot. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Portugal has UberX, which is easily utilized if you are inclined to do a day trip to Sintra but don't have a rental car.

WEATHER

The summer days are sunny and hot, with temperatures easily topping the 90s. But the ocean winds can make the nights quite chilly, so remember to pack a light sweater or jacket for leisurely after-dinner strolls.

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE

Seafood Dreams: A Chef's Tour of LIsbon and PortoArchitecture Tour in PortugalNavigating the Cliffs of Sagres, Portugal

Filed Under: A Few Days In, Beachy, Bike Rentals, Cascais, Lisbon, Locals Surf School, Picturesque Setting, Portugal, Visit Portugal, Where to Go From Here August 28, 2016
Source: The Living is Easy in Cascais, Lisbon's Charming Coastal Neighbor

Tighten your pursestrings! The cheapest spots in Europe for YOUR next holiday

Getty

The survey broke down various costs to create the list of most expensive European countries to visit

With cost being a dominating factor in every area of travel, leading airport transfer provider hoppa have discovered the most expensive and cheapest destinations to travel around in Europe. 

The research breaks down the findings, from average hotel cost, all the way to the price of a cocktail or even a trip to the cinema.

While the most expensive city won't shock you, the cheapest one might. 

And it's located in a place most Brits won't have thought about as a holiday destination. 

Related articles

In terms of overall expense, Copenhagen in Denmark took the top spot, coming in at an eye-watering £302.90 per person, per night, based on the average costs of a hotel and an evening of entertainment (even including a taxi journey). 

Detailing 48 cities across the continent, all British locations came in the upper, more expensive half of the findings, with the following in ascending order:

3. London, England: £275.15

5. Dublin, Ireland: £261.01

8. Edinburgh, Scotland: £239.63

17. Manchester, England: £193.25

18. Belfast, Northern Ireland: £190.76

21. Glasgow, Scotland: £175.94

hoppa

The research broke down the costs of cinema tickets, taxi fares and food and drink

Also staying within the UK, London was found to be most expensive when it came to a trip for two to the cinema (£23) and taxi journeys (£3 per km). 

However, Akureyri, Iceland was overall the most expensive night out (£102.63) and again, Sunny Beach with its cheap drinks and food, was found to be the cheapest evening of entertainment at £20.89.

But the real surprise is the hidden European gem in Bulgaria — Sunny beach — which has been rated the cheapest European destination. 

The seaside resort of Sunny Beach in Bulgaria came in at an extremely wallet friendly £58.22 per person per night — around £250 cheaper than Copenhagen. 

hoppa

The research shows the REAL cost of a holiday in Europe

The extensive study by hoppa helps shine a light on where to get the most for your money in Europe.

And this comes at a time when summer holidays are ending, with many looking towards a booking a short break in Europe to stave off the holiday blues.

This comes after this guide to avoiding hidden airline costs was revealed.

Booking flights isn't the most exact of sciences, but there are certainly ways to make sure you're getting the best bang for your buck.

This helpful guide from flight search website Cheapflights breaks down every airlines hidden costs and how to avoid them.

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Source: Tighten your pursestrings! The cheapest spots in Europe for YOUR next holiday

Lufthansa puts pressure on Swiss to turn Geneva routes profitable

Swiss may cut its European network from the current forty, to thirty destinations, as part of a market turnaround plan, dubbed 'Geneva Reloaded'.

Image copyright: Sven1985 on fra-spotterforum.deThe two-year plan, which runs until 2018, aims at improving the profitability of the carrier's Geneva hub ops. This plan will not affect Swiss's long haul services to Mew a York JFK.

According to a meeting transcript, seen by the Sonntagszeiting, the carrier has been warned by parent Lufthansa Group that unless the plan pays off and Swiss' regional European routes become profitable, the airport could be turned over to the group's budget carrier, Eurowings.

As such, Eurowings has now been tasked with devising its own business plan for a possible Geneva market entry. Lufthansa Group insiders have said the company expects to make a decision on the future of its Geneva operations in the middle of next year.

Aside from domestic services to Lugano and Zurich, Swiss operates flights out of Geneva to various destinations in Algeria, Czechia, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Macedonia, Morocco, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

Author: Andrea G.

Crazy Italian #AvGeek based in Apulia. Admin of The World of Aviation. View all posts by Andrea G.

Source: Lufthansa puts pressure on Swiss to turn Geneva routes profitable

Earth-like planet NEARBY that scientists tout as humanity’s next destination

#Earth #Planet – Earth-like planet NEARBY that scientists tout as humanity's next destination : Reports emerged last week that the European Southern Observatory (ESO) had discovered the rocky planet using NASA's Kepler Telescope. The potential news excited stargazers but the ESO kept schtum at the time. However, they have now confirmed its existence.

The planet, which has been dubbed Proxima b, is located four light-years away – which is still in excess of 25 trillion miles – and orbiting the red-dwarf star Proxima Centauri. It is the closest habitable planet to Earth, meaning scientists could feasibly reach it within a lifetime.

How the view from the planet may look (FA)

Experts state that robotic crafts could be sent there in the not too distant future, and beyond that, if the atmosphere proves to be safe and technology makes it a possibility, it could one day be reached by humanity.

Proxima b is only five per cent of the distance that the Earth is from the sun to its star, but as the star is a red-dwarf, it is much cooler, meaning that the planet is still in the 'goldilocks zone' – the region of space around a host star where it is not too hot, nor too cold.

However, the planet is being bombarded by powerful ultraviolet rays and X-rays from Proxima Centauri so any life there would have needed to evolve to be equipped to deal with this.

Source: Earth-like planet NEARBY that scientists tout as humanity's next destination

Revealed: Europe's cheapest holiday destination - but is it worth the savings?

Britons on a budget should head to Bulgaria, new research has shown, with the country topping a holiday cost survey of popular destinations across Europe.

The study, carried out by airport transfers website hoppa.com, compared prices for hotel accommodation, taxis, cinema tickets, and a variety of food and drink purchases in 48 cities and seaside resorts.

Sunny Beach, the summer favourite on Bulgaria's Black Sea Coast, was found to be the best bet for sunseekers on a shoestring, with the total bill for eight items coming in at £58.22. In contrast, the same shopping list in the most expensive city to feature, Copenhagen, is likely to set you back £302.90.

The study's findings echo those of a Post Office summer price survey, published in April, which also named Sunny Beach Europe's cheapest seaside destination.

But besides low prices, what can one expect from the Bulgarian Riviera? Is it worth the potential savings?

"It's cheap and cheerful, with some fairly rough-and-ready communist-era concrete constructions," said Telegraph Travel's Adrian Bridge, following a visit to the resort of Varna, just north of Sunny Beach. "But there are some nice cafés and restaurants. We drank a couple of beers (£1.30 for the two) and ordered fish fresh from the Black Sea. Over a shopska salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, olives and feta-style cheese), I was introduced to the pleasures of rakia, a fruit-based schnapps."

Varna's other attractions include the beautiful Sea Gardens, modelled on the Baroque palace gardens of Schönbrunn and Belvedere in Vienna, the lavish Cathedral of the Assumption, an open-air theatre, an aquarium, a zoo, a planetarium, a "bizarre" little naval museum, a well-preserved old town, and, of course, the sea itself: "I took a dip and experienced the strange sweetness of the Black Sea," recalled Bridge. "It has barely any salt." 

He adds: "It's still a working port and in addition to a sea of cranes I spot cargo ships. It lends the beach itself a certain hardness that may not appeal to all holidaymakers (most of whom anyway head further north to the purpose-built resorts of Sunny Beach and Albena). But for an afternoon – or a day or two – it's fun."

Robert Nurnden, meanwhile, a former resident of Bulgaria, recommends another Black Sea resort: Sozopol. "It manages to cater for the young, party-going set from Sofia as well as those seeking something more sedate," he says. "The classy old town offers shoreline restaurants and bars where you can watch the sun slide down over Asia. To the south, miles of sandy beaches stretch as far as Turkey. To the north, Sunny Beach pulsates to the beat of 24-hour parties."

Other bargain destinations to feature in Hoppa's study were Ostrava, the third largest city in the Czech Republic and nicknamed "the steel heart of the republic" (Ryanair fly there); Antalya, Turkey's biggest beach resort; Istanbul, its biggest city; and Sofia, the Bulgarian capital.

The Latvian seaside resort of Jurmala, a summer favourite of Brezhnev and Khrushchev, with an impressive 21-mile sandy beach, was the seventh cheapest option, or for something more traditional, try Rhodes (9th) or The Algarve (10th).

Joining Copenhagen in the top five most expensive spots is Stockholm, London, Venice and Dublin.

Europe's cheapest - and most expensive - holiday destinations

Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - total cost of eight items* - £58.22 

Ostrava, Czech Republic - £69.27

Antalya, Turkey - £69.51

Istanbul, Turkey - £84.69

Sofia, Bulgaria - £92.66

Debrecen, Hungary - £96.08

Jurmala, Latvia - £109.77

Zagreb, Croatia - £110.50

Rhodes, Greece - £120.65

Algarve, Portugal - £124.54

Nicosia, Cyprus - £130.09

Dubrovnik, Croatia - £130.20

Krakow, Poland - £130.95

Berlin, Germany - £137.73

Prague, Czech Republic - £139.28

St Petersburg, Russia - £139.33

Moscow, Russia - £141.70

Rotterdam, The Netherlands - £143.07

Paphos, Cyprus - £144.83

Warsaw, Poland - £146.29

Budapest, Hungary - £146.83

Riga, Latvia - £147

Munich, Germany - £159.75

Athens, Greece - £160.89

Lisbon, Portugal - £162.32

Salzburg, Austria - £170.78

Madrid, Spain - £175.16

Glasgow, UK - £175.84

Vienna, Austria - £179.45

Barcelona, Spain - £183.73

Belfast, UK - £190.76

Manchester, UK - £193.25

Bergen, Norway - £205.81

Akureyri, Iceland - £209.93

Nice, France - £212.07

Billund, Denmark - £213.66

Rome, Italy - £216.88

Gothenberg, Sweden - £217.05

Amsterdam, The Netherlands - £228.51

Oslo, Norway - £235.59

Edinburgh, UK - £239.63

Reykjavik, Iceland - £251.26

Paris, France - £253.49

Dublin, Ireland - £261.01

Venice, Italy - £271.01

London, UK - £275.15

Stockholm, Sweden - £280.56

Copenhagen, Denmark - £302.90

*Items are hotel accommodation, a coffee, a bottle of wine, a meal for two, a cocktail, cinema tickets and a 1km taxi fare.

Source: Revealed: Europe's cheapest holiday destination - but is it worth the savings?

Germany, France, Italy say Europe must move forward after Brexit vote

But questions of how to bring about prosperity have divided the three countries.

Heavily-indebted Italy, whose economy has barely grown since the introduction of the euro currency in 1999, has repeatedly chafed against stern EU budget rules, and both Renzi and Hollande want greater flexibility to help boost growth.

Germany is keen for rules to be respected, and Renzi and Merkel sidestepped a question on deficit limits.

All three leaders are threatened at home. Merkel faces discontent over her controversial decision to let in a million mainly Muslim migrants last year.

France is reeling from a wave of Islamist attacks and Renzi faces a referendum on constitutional reform this autumn that could trigger his downfall.

The EU plans to offer incentives to African governments to help slow the flow of migrants into Europe, but divisions among member states are stark.

Italy, the main entry point for Africans but rarely their planned destination, is struggling to house migrants turned back from neighboring countries including France, and disagrees with Germany over how to finance the response.

Hollande stressed the need to protect the EU from militant violence by tightening borders and sharing intelligence.

"To have security we need frontiers that are controlled so that is why we are working to reinforce coastguards and border guards," he said. "We want more coordination in the fight against terrorism."

Source: Germany, France, Italy say Europe must move forward after Brexit vote

Tips To Plan A Perfect Destination Wedding

A destination wedding is a scope for couples to glorify their nuptial ceremony by organising at gorgeous and stunning international destinations. Couples getting married through a destination wedding generally choose popular locations like Europe, Australia, Caribbean, Mexico, etc. In order to arrange a successful destination wedding, it is important to take care of certain factors. Stated below are the top tips that can be followed for arranging the event successfully:

1. Choose the perfect location: The first and foremost step towards planning a destination wedding is to choose an ideal location. It is recommended to try and pick a location that is easily accessible from one's hometown. This will help all the guests to reach there at the right time.

2. Choose the right time: If you want to get married in the peak season, then it is better to reserve your preferred hotel and venue at least 10 to 12 months in advance before the marriage date. On the other hand, if you wish to organise the event during off-season, then you will be benefited with plenty of discount and rebate offers. Taking your budget into consideration, choose a right wedding time accordingly.

3. Take a trip: It is always recommended to visit the preferred destination before the wedding day. Visiting the place will help you to get some idea about the locality and also the pros & cons associated with it.

4. Contact with the vendors: Notify your vendors about your destination marriage at least 6 months before the wedding day. Contact with your hairdresser, cake maker, caterer, photographer and the company that is going to offer you the service of wedding bar hire in Perth in advance. Ask them whether they would be flexible in providing their services or not. If required book tickets for them. Don't compromise and miss out on anyone who can provide you with the best service. Always try to hire a reputed vendor offering quality services.

5. Consider the weather condition: If you have planned for an outdoor ceremony, then it is always better to keep an indoor option available too. You never know when the sun might stop smiling and make way for a heavy downpour. So without taking any chance, have a alternative option ready.

All the aforementioned tips are important for arranging a successful destination marriage ceremony. So keep the factors in mind and start preparing for the occasion.

Source: Tips To Plan A Perfect Destination Wedding

Cheap Flights To Mexico And Europe, Free $30 At Office Depot And Royal Caribbean Changes Direction

Here's what I'm reading about in the world of miles and points:

Cheap Flights of the Day: 

Yes, I know it's Frontier, and they can be stingy with fees. But, their current sale is valid for departures from Monday to Saturday, has one-way fares in the US as low as $39 to a lot of destinations (with an extra 30% off when you use promo code SAVE30), and a 20% discount on flights to Mexico.

Meanwhile, JetBlue has fares just over $200 to the Caribbean.  And, there are still tickets to China for less than $500.

And, WOW Air is at it again with ultra-low fares to Europe.  Just be careful of the fees.

In Case You Missed It: 

The new Ritz-Carlton Visa offer is worth considering for many folks.  There's no personal upside for me if you apply, it's just a really good offer.

A Look Inside The Luxurious Suites At The Park Hyatt Sydney

Last Chance to Enter to Win An Amazon Gift Card

Get an INSTANT $15 off $300 in Visa gift cards.  If bought in larger denominations, you'll pay less than $300 for the gift cards and have the opportunity to earn miles (Chase Ink users rejoice 5X points on office supplies).

Royal Caribbean made a painful announcement for loyalty members recently, announcing they would eliminate the popular balcony discount many of their elite members are eligible for.  After a huge uproar, they seem to have backed down for now.  We enjoy cruising, even though we haven't gone on one in quite some time.  Elite status with the cruise lines is generally considered "lifetime" status, once you achieve a level it doesn't expire.  The benefits can be very rewarding for frequent cruisers.

8 tips to help your little ones deal with jet lag.

I've got a quick stop in Denver this week.  Where are you traveling to next?

Source: Cheap Flights To Mexico And Europe, Free $30 At Office Depot And Royal Caribbean Changes Direction

The 7 best small cities in Europe

Lausanne, SwitzerlandGabriel Garcia Marengo/Flickr

Usually when new visitors travel to Europe, it's to the big capital cities—those cities that make it into all the movies and TV dramas. We travel to Paris, to London, to Madrid and Barcelona and Amsterdam and Brussels.

But in a continent of vastly diverse cultures, it's often the small cities where local culture really shines. And while big European cities will always hold a special place in our collective global history, it's the smaller cities which retain the old-world charm with new-world culture.

Note: This article originally appeared on the Smash Vintage blog – see it here with additional photos!

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Source: The 7 best small cities in Europe

Alipay and Ingenico strike Europe mobile payments alliance

French payments processing group Ingenico has struck an alliance with China's Alipay that will enable Chinese tourists visiting Europe to pay for goods and services using the platform's popular e-wallet.

The Paris-based payments software and terminals producer said the partnership would allow thousands of European merchants — from supermarkets and big retailers to restaurants and bars — to accept payments in-store via the Alipay app.

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On this topic IN Technology

Alipay, the mobile payment service run by Alibaba Group's financial affiliate Ant Financial Services Group, has expanded rapidly in mainland China, and the company now says it has 450m active users — representing an estimated 80 per cent of the country's mobile payments market.

But while many of the estimated 12.5m Chinese tourists who visited Europe last year use the Alipay app back home, they have so far had to use cash or alternative payments methods when visiting Paris, Rome or other European destinations.

"Payment becomes a friction for business so we are removing this friction by allowing the retailers to capture sales to the Chinese tourist population," Jacques Behr, Ingenico's executive vice-president for Europe and Africa, told the Financial Times.

Ingenico, which provides in-store and online payments facilities throughout the world, already allows merchants to accept transactions with other e-wallet apps such as Apple Pay and Android Pay.

But it said the alliance with Alipay would "provide acquirers and respective retailers in Europe with a complete online and in-store payment solution, tailored to the Chinese outbound travellers coming to Europe".

Douglas Feagin, senior vice-president at Ant Financial, said: "One of our key missions is providing the ability for our customers to purchase goods and services around the world as they travel, and Europe is a major destination for Chinese tourists".

He added: "Ingenico has a network across all of Europe and a gateway that we could use to connect Alipay to the merchants across Europe and really be able to do that very fast".

Alipay must negotiate with banks and other acquiring agents before the app can be used in-store but both companies estimated that Alipay would be fully operational in Europe within a few months.

Alipay's ambitions in Europe are part of a wider international push. This year it collaborated with Uber, allowing people with Alipay to use it to pay for rides using Uber's car-hailing app.

It has also forged alliances with the likes of German banking software company Wirecard to offer mobile-payment services to Chinese tourists in Germany.

In April, Ant Financial raised $4.5bn from mostly state-backed investors, in what it said was the largest private placement by an internet company globally. The fundraising valued it at an estimated $60bn, placing it among the ranks of the world's most valuable private technology companies, including Uber and Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi.

Ingenico's alliance with Alipay, announced on Thursday, also allows European internet retailers to accept payments through Alipay's e-wallet. In addition, it will allow Alipay to accept payments from European customers with MasterCard, Visa and other cards who buy goods through various online marketplaces it runs, such as AliExpress.

Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2016. You may share using our article tools.Please don't cut articles from FT.com and redistribute by email or post to the web.

Source: Alipay and Ingenico strike Europe mobile payments alliance

Trump ‘consorts with bigotry,’ so I’m voting Clinton, ex-Reagan aide says

Donald Trump's racial rhetoric and poor business acumen make him unfit to occupy the Oval Office, a former aide to President Ronald Reagan told CNBC's "Worldwide Exchange" on Thursday.

Frank Lavin, Reagan's political director from 1987 to 1989, said he has voted Republican in presidential elections for 40 years, but will cast his ballot for Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton this year because "she's just got a better approach to America's role in the world."

In recent weeks, dozens of Republicans including former national security officials have said they will not support Trump.

Lavin, now CEO at trade consulting firm Export Now, also served as an undersecretary in the Commerce Department and ambassador to Singapore under President George W. Bush. He said it is difficult for Republican politicians to break with Trump, but for him, the choice to support Clinton over his party's candidate was easy, citing the twin issue of his rhetoric and record of bankruptcies.

"If he's not actually a bigot, he certainly consorts with bigotry and plays to that sentiment," Lavin said.

Trump drew accusations of bigotry early in his campaign. When he announced his bid, he said many Mexican immigrants were criminals and rapists. He later angered fellow Republicans by saying a Mexican-American judge presiding over a lawsuit against Trump University could not be impartial because of his heritage.

The GOP nominee has said he would ban Muslims from entering the United States following a series of terrorist attacks in the United States and Europe orchestrated or inspired by Islamic State militants. Trump has slipped in the polls after publicly feuding with the father of a fallen Muslim-American Army captain who spoke out against him at the Democratic National Convention.

Lavin said "that denigration of Muslims, of Mexicans and so forth, I thought that's unbecoming, and there should be no place for that kind of bigotry in public life. There should be no place for that kind of bigotry in our hearts."

Trump's trips to bankruptcy court show there "is something terribly wrong with this fellow's business judgment, his management, maybe even his ethics, if he's got four bankruptcies like that and he's still scooting around in a private jet," Lavin added.

Four of Trump's hotel and casino companies filed for bankruptcy between 1991 and 2009.

Trump has said bankruptcy protection is a common business practice, and he claims he exited Atlantic City, New Jersey, as the gambling destination entered decline. The New York Times and other news outlets have reported he funded his Atlantic City properties with unsustainable debt and his casinos underperformed competitors long before the city's fortunes turned.

Trump campaign officials did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment.

Lavin said he previously worked with Clinton on New York's Olympic bid and a past Shanghai Expo and called her capable, bright, diligent, and hard-working. He said he was disappointed she withdrew her support for a trade deal among 12 Pacific Rim nations.

Critics have alleged Clinton's past support for the Trans-Pacific Partnership as secretary of state shows she is flip-flopping to score political points with liberal voters.

"I'll tell you no matter where she is on trade, and moving American companies ahead, Donald Trump is that much worse," Lavin said.

Source: Trump 'consorts with bigotry,' so I'm voting Clinton, ex-Reagan aide says

This is the world's most popular holiday destination, says Google

Croatia is the most searched for destination in the world, an analysis of Google data by teflSearch has revealed.

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SEE ALSO: 'Legendary sea monster' spotted on Google Earth

The European destination, which is home to outstanding national parks, sun-kissed beaches, picturesque cities and mountain adventures, receives 2.71 per cent of holiday-related searches worldwide compared to 2.54 per cent for Greece, 2.47 per cent for Thailand and Turkey, and 1.99 per cent for Spain. The UK, France and Germany did not make the cut, while Italy, Cuba and America featured in the top 10 most popular travel locations.

From Britain, the most searched for destination is holidays at home in the UK with 5.6 per cent of search, followed by Thailand, Turkey, Australia and Mexico. Cyprus, Greece and Malta were other popular destinations.

For those already living in the most searched for destination in the world, Croatians look for even more glorious beaches, with the Maldives and Thailand coming out top for holiday searches, before Malta, Cuba and Greece. Croatians are also interested in Montenegro, Tunisia and Mauritius.

In 2014, Google revealed that the most searched for holiday destinations by Britons was the French capital Paris.

Just a short hop from the UK and offering romance, culture and a wonderful atmosphere any time of year, it's no wonder The City of Lights was seen as the most interesting place to visit for a short break.

In second place was the USA, followed by America's most favoured destination, New York. The only UK holiday spot to make the list was Cornwall, while London was not a popular destination for Brits searching for ideas and inspiration using the search engine.

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Source: This is the world's most popular holiday destination, says Google

Scoot names Athens as its first European destination

Scoot will launch the world's longest low-cost carrier service next year when it begins operating flights between Singapore and Athens.

According to Scoot, the commencement of its service to Europe is part of the Singapore Airlines Group's strategy "to stimulate passenger traffic between Asia-Pacific and Europe, as well as to boost connectivity through the Singapore hub."

The Singapore–Athens route, which covers a distance of more than 10,000km, is scheduled to begin on June 20, 2017. The flight schedule can be found below:

Singapore–Athens

Flight no. Departure Arrival Frequency TZ702 0200 0830 Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun

Athens–Singapore

Flight no. Departure Arrival

Frequency

TZ701 1200 0425 (+1)

Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun

Flights will be operated by the B787-8, which features a two-class configuration comprising 21 seats in business and 314 in economy.

Customers looking for an upgraded experience can choose from a number of chargeable add-ons such as meals and streamed in-flight entertainment.

The Singapore low-cost carrier does offer a premium cabin class called ScootBiz, which grants passengers all of the amenities mentioned above, as well as an all-leather seat with 38-inch seat pitch and 30kg of checked baggage.

To commemorate the launch of its first European service, Scoot is offering one-way economy fares starting at S$288 (US$215), inclusive of taxes. The promotional fare for ScootBiz starts at S$888 (US$661). Deal ends on August 31, 2016.

For more information, visit flyscoot.com

Clement Huang

Source: Scoot names Athens as its first European destination

Why Mallorca is up there with Tuscany as one of Europe's top retreats

In the first half of the 20th century, Mallorca was a relatively poor island, its inhabitants eking out a largely pastoral existence.

But the Balearics, which include Mallorca, Minorca, Ibiza and Formentera, boast some of the most stunning scenery in the world, especially the former, by far the biggest of the four main islands, which is home to mountainous terrain every bit as impressive as more celebrated Tuscany. It's little wonder it once attracted an international set of artists, including the poet and author Robert Graves, who were inspired by the scenery as well as the affordable rent. At its peak there were just shy of 100 working artists on the island, mirroring nearby Ibiza and the not-so-distant art hubs along the mainland Spanish coast.

There are still a handful of artists there today – among them Arturo Rhodes, who painted an excellent series based on Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring (pictured) – but most were priced out as the world began to recognise the value of the Balearics.

It wasn't until the late 1950s, though, that mass tourism really kicked in, with Brits and Germans in particular flocking here in their millions, making the capital, Palma, home to among the busiest airports in the world. Like most islands within easy reach of the UK, Mallorca gradually set aside areas for budget travellers, the most famous of which is Magaluf, that infamous 18-30 destination, whose nadir came last summer when the story of an exploitative party spread across the world's tabloid media. As a result, many people associate the island with drunk women called Barbra on a weekend break from Leeds drinking Lambrini from a shoe, rather than as a viable alternative to Europe's most celebrated coastal destinations.

But it doesn't need to be this way. Steer clear of the south-island resorts in favour of the smaller northern towns and you'll find historic landscapes virtually free of tourism even during high season. I took a 40 minute-drive from the airport to the small mountainous town of Deia, a hub for Mallorca's art community and among the island's more exclusive locations.

The Belmond La Residencia hotel and restaurant – once owned by Richard Branson – is one of the last bastions of this art community, with an on-site gallery displaying both local and international works and gardens filled with sculptures; perfect for an afternoon in the sun drinking sangria and watching the sun trawl across the afternoon sky.

Deia is even good enough for James Bond-in-waiting Tom Hiddleston, with a scene in his recent series The Night Manager, an adaptation of a John Le Carré novel, being filmed in cliffside restaurant Ca's Patro March, an idyllic grotto where you can eat fish plucked from the sea just hours before it reaches your plate. I ate so much fresh squid I dyed my lips a fetching shade of purple.

The best way to get to the restaurant is to swim from a yacht at sunset (mine was courtesy of Mezzo Magic), which will pick you up from the nearby harbour town and sail down the coast, stopping so you can explore submerged caves. Some entail diving a few metres under the jagged rocks into vivid-blue caves teeming with fish and anemones; fortune favours the brave here – they're exceptionally beautiful if you dare to reach them.

In terms of accommodation, you can't do better than the imperious Sa Quinta in Deia, perched atop a mountain on the rocky north west coast, with views taking in a series of villas owned by Andrew Lloyd Webber. A north-facing infinity pool looks down across the Tramuntana mountain range towards the coast, and is best accompanied by the sound of Bach drifting in from the nearby player piano. Watching the sun set from the terrace before taking a night swim in the spot-lit pool is a rare pleasure.

There are six double rooms, all with their own bathrooms, and, as it's a private residence for half the year as opposed to a rental-only property, the decor is genuinely impressive, with chandeliers, a library in a converted courtyard and – I think – Regency period art on the walls.

You could quite easily stay in the villa for an entire week; its staff will cater for you during your stay and there's an outdoor dining area with cooking and cocktail-making facilities, all, of course, overlooking the sea. If you do venture out, make sure you nominate a non-drinking driver as the winding route up the mountain is terrifying even when sober.

It's set in acres of land, with olive and lemon trees, wild goats and a resident donkey whose brays sometimes puncture the silent evenings.

So if you're planning on a late summer getaway but want to branch out from the usual luxury costal breaks of the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany, Dubrovnik or the south of France, bear in mind Mallorca, an island that's so much more than Barbra and her sodden shoe.

Sa Quinta Villa is available from €20,400 per week. For booking info and other luxury Mallorca villas visit charlesmarlow.com

Charles Marlow offers villas from €1,300 per week (including the above) and can arrange transfers, yachts, chefs, nannies, massages, art lessons and sports activities. Visit charlesmarlow.com

For boat trips from Port Soller with Mezzo Magic visit mezzomagic.co.uk, prices from €350

For tea at La Residencia visit belmond.com/la-residencia-mallorca

Ca's Patro March, Carrer Sa Cala, 16, 07179 Deià, Illes Balears, call +34 971 63 91 37

Source: Why Mallorca is up there with Tuscany as one of Europe's top retreats

Zadar Notches Up 1 Million Tourist Stays Earlier than Ever

Zadar

The number of overnight stays in tourist accommodation, which reflects both the length of stay and the number of visitors, is considered a key indicator for tourism statistics…

Zadar, situated on Croatia's Dalmatian coast, has achieved 1 million overnight stays in record time. On 11 August 2016 Zadar recorded its 1 millionth overnight stay for the year, 6 days ahead of when it achieved the milestone last year.

Zadar Greeting to the sun (photo credit: Leonardo Uzeda)

Earlier this year Zadar was awarded the title of Best European Destination 2016 after beating the likes of Athens, Paris, Milan, Prague, Rome, Vienna and Madrid in an online vote, and the promotion it gained has seemed to have an effect.

Zadar presented with title of Best European Destination (photo credit: European Best Destinations)

The city has never achieved one million overnight stays as early has it has this year. From 1 January 2016 there have been 267,394 registered visitors in Zadar and 1,016,000 overnight stays, which is 300,000 more than in the same period in 2015.

Source: Zadar Notches Up 1 Million Tourist Stays Earlier than Ever

Canada Is a Great Holiday Destination

Canada is a great holiday destination for its natural treasures and cosmopolitan cities. According to Business Insider, the second largest country in the world offers a lot of attractions and experiences to travelers.

From a geographical point of view, Canada is well-known for the longest coastline in the world. Also, the border it shares with the United States is the world's longest land border. According to About Travel, the country's natural beauty includes mountains, glaciers, secluded lakes, and forests. The spectacular land and waterscapes, along with the natural phenomenon of the eerie neon Northern Lights, validate Canada as a beautiful destination.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. Three combined falls; the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls, create the waterfall with the highest flow rate around the globe. According to Pan American World, "there is no other place in North America that has the amount of water they have, the equivalent to more than a million bathtubs."

Over the years, due to its beauty, Niagara Falls has been an inspiration for many authors, painters, composers, and filmmakers. Nowadays, tourists have a lot of things to do in Niagara Falls. The experiences include sailing up to the brink of the waterfall, walking behind it or flying over it in a helicopter.

Rocky Mountains

The Rocky Mountains include five national parks, which are some of Canada's virtues.

Banff National Park

Jasper National Park

Kootenay National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park

Yoho National Park

A lot of adventures are awaiting visitors at those national parks. For example, Jasper is appreciated for the Yellowhead Museum and the excursions, such as Skyline Trail or Path of the Glacier. Kootenay overwhelms with the beauty of landscapes, "whitewater rivers, alpine meadows and a horizon full of mountains covered in snow." The Rocky Mountains are a great holiday destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and winter sports like skiing or snowboarding.

Aurora Borealis

The Northern Lights is a phenomenon consisting of a curtain of green, aqua, violet and yellow tones that create shapes, which flicker in the sky, and give it a magical look. The colors change depending on the location of the phenomenon. The celestial light show covers a huge part of Canada, and it can be seen well in Yellowknife, Churchill, the Hudson Bay, Manitoba, and Whitehorse city.

Over the years, the eerie colorful event has caused authors and explorers to create many historical theories, superstitions, and myths around it. For example, in Medieval Europe, the Northern Lights were considered a sign from God, while some of the Aboriginal Canadians called them the Dance of the Spirits. The phenomenon even appeared in a theatrical play called "Almost, Maine," written by John Cariani.

Cosmopolitan Cities

Besides the incredible natural attractions, Canada is a great holiday destination for its m ulticultural and friendly cities. According to About Travel, the country is encouraging diversity, so the tourists can experience a large range of ethnic restaurants and shops.

Moreover, the beautiful Canadian cities inspired Hollywood filmmakers. According to CNN, several towns all across North America have hosted many movies:

"Titanic," in Halifax

"Brokeback Mountain," in Alberta

"Blades of Glory," in Montreal

"Twilight," in Vancouver

"Unforgiven," in Calgary

"The Incredible Hulk," in Toronto

"Capote," in Winnipeg

Furthermore, as Alux stated, Canada is recognized as the most well-educated and peaceful countries in the world. So, there are a lot of reasons to visit Canada, which is a great holiday destination.

Opinion News by Bianca-Ramona DumitruEdited by Jeanette Smith

Sources:

About Travel: Reasons To Visit CanadaAlux: 20 things you didn't know about CanadaBusiness Insider: The 20 best countries to visit in your lifetimeCNN: 10 things Canada does better than anywhere elsePanamerican World: 20 reasons to visit Canada

Featured and Top Image Courtesy of Samuel Auguste's Flickr Page – Creative Commons LicenseFirst Inline Image Courtesy of Dennis Jarvis's Flickr Page – Creative Commons License

  Attractions and Activities, Canada, Destination, tourist, travel

Source: Canada Is a Great Holiday Destination

Vacation Destinations Informations

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Mediterranean cruises, European cruises, and cruises to Canada are at their lowest rates than prior years. No matter whether you are looking for a weekend vacation on a spending budget or a luxurious many weeks away, all inclusive holidays are a relaxing selection for nearly each traveller. All Inclusive Holidays Tel: 08700 490002 or +44 ()1780 484824 Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm or Sat – Sun 10am – 4pm or for general corporate travel inquiries. Anytime I capture these lovely images in my paintings, I recall my travels by means of Europe. Borough market has vendors from all over Europe and the UK promoting cheeses, fresh meat, seafood, wine, pasties and pesto.

That way, if the airline refuses to let you verify your carryon, you simply open it, take out the small travel case, hand the carryon to the airline and go on with your trip. Bring half the clothing you consider you'd need to have and bring (or have access to) twice as significantly cash as you need. Pack lots of zip lock bags, as they have a number of uses: the jumbo ones work well for packing clothes, socks, and so on. Take the time at the finish of each and every day or throughout a quiet moment, to record your thoughts while you travel.

If you really feel the rail pass is not for you then never despair, I've discovered you can frequently purchase train tickets in Europe at the train stations for a less costly rate when taking quick journeys, specially if you are prepared to book your tickets in advance. A truly valuable way to begin planning your trip is lookup the German Railway Website which gives a timetable and occasionally pricing for tickets proper throughout Europe. For travel in the UK you can lookup Red Spotted Hankey on the web or seek out any train station to book tickets in the UK.

Incentives won't be required or anticipated during a greater economy, so taking benefit of these when the economy is suffering is a sensible concept for individuals who are driving older cars and really would like to have one thing greater and newer to commute to work in and to travel in when they go on holiday. If you are going to get all these electronics, you are also going to want an USB travel charging kit.

Students, make positive that you get one particular of these income belts beneath for portions of the program. You will want to hold a separate credit card in there, your passport, cash, any other essential products. Take a quite small bill holder that only has room for a driver's license, a couple of credit cards, and some funds. If you only get to go to Europe seldom, or if this is a once in a lifetime trip, you must see as significantly as you possibly can.

Source: Vacation Destinations Informations

8 ‘Untouched’ Places in Europe, 24 hours in Sarajevo, Planning a Cycling Trip in Europe, and Croatia for Families

On Bootsnall this week we're excited about destinations around Eastern, and Central, traveling with children, and getting around Europe on two wheels. Jenn Miller shares her expertise about 8 off-the-beaten tourist path places in Europe that still feel authentic and cycling (long or short-term) as a family. Robin Koning gives us her best tips on what to see in Sarajevo, Bosnia, with only a day to take everything in , and Jane Graham explains why Croatia's her family's preferred indie travel destination.

Keep reading to catch up on what you may have missed!

Do you feel like you're part of a never-ending parade of tourists, going from one crowded destination to the next? Jenn Miller recommoend 8 cities in Europe for an authentic and uncrowded European experience.

"Crowds of camera-toting tourists shove their way into your dream and you succumb to the realization that "it's all been done," especially in Europe. Snap out of it! If you're willing to leave that guidebook in the hotel sometimes and make the "road less traveled" your highway to adventure, there are still LOTS of untouched places in Europe with smiling locals ready to introduce you to their local brand of latte."

Visitors to Sarajevo could easily spend two days (or more) just exploring the mosques, cathedrals, bazaars and cafes that make up the city's Old Town. Fortunately, Robin Koning's itinerary will help you make the most of Sarajevo, including sights off the typical tourist map, even if you've only got 24 hours.

"Morning is the perfect time to explore the Old Town's cobblestone, pedestrian-only lanes. Along Copper Street, shopkeepers will be opening stalls filled with Turkish coffee sets, handmade on site out of copper and silver. As the sound of craftsmen's hammers, ringing church bells, and the scent of Turkish coffee fills the air, you'll feel transported back to the early 15th century when construction of the Bascarjia began under the rule of the Ottoman Empire"

Want to reduce your carbon footprint after that long flight by cycling around Europe? Jenn Miller gives her best hints on where to go and what to pack, as well as sorting out the logistics.

"For our family, travel has become as much about the journey as it is about the destination, which is why we love cycling. Riding a bicycle as a primary mode of transportation has many benefits to the traveler. It forces you to slow down and savor the landscape in ways that are difficult by train or by car. It forces travelers to interact with locals daily and creates a deeper, more authentic cultural experience than riding a tour bus. Ecologically speaking, it's a low impact way to see the world, reducing your carbon footprint, one pedal push at a time while improving your health and supporting the concept of green travel."

A relaxing, independently-planned family vacation is far from impossible. More often it's just a question of finding the right destination. Jane Graham gives some reasons why for her family, that destination was Croatia and its islands.

"Routine may be fine for 11 months of the year, but kids thrive on novelty and react badly to rigid itineraries and guidelines on vacation. Finding a country everyone likes, where there's room to accommodate everyone's wishes, can make all the difference. For our family, that country's Croatia."

Photo credits: shutterstock.com, claudio zaccherini /shutterstock.com, jopelka /Shutterstock.com, Donatas Dabravolskas /Shutterstock.com, leoks

Source: 8 'Untouched' Places in Europe, 24 hours in Sarajevo, Planning a Cycling Trip in Europe, and Croatia for Families

Option European Destinations

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This shouldn't come as a surprise but the very best travel tips typically come from locals. Wait till you arrive in Europe to acquire a converter for your telephone charger or issues like hair dryers since most of the ones you are going to buy in the U.S never usually perform in Europe anyway. No matter how extended you intend to stay, travel by train to the key cities but with a lot more time, you can make a lot more stops in between. The #1 travel app lets you discover new areas, gorgeous spots and insider tips at the touch of a button.

Canada does not recognize Russian handle over Crimea, and our capability to offer consular assistance to Canadians in Crimea is really restricted. Foreign Affairs, Trade and Improvement Canada (DFATD) advises against all travel to the Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts due to armed operations in the region. Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD) advises against non-essential travel to Kharkiv Oblast due to the tenuous security circumstance. The Government of Canada requires the safety and safety of Canadians abroad quite seriously and supplies credible and timely information in its Travel Suggestions. Canada does not recognize this act and continues to consider Crimea to be sovereign Ukrainian Territory.

The Frankfurt Stock Exchange is the second largest in Europe following London and the fifth greatest in the planet. It was begun in 1978 to generate option theatre peformances and is named soon after the Gallus Quarter in Frankfurt. Thank you for sharing your information of this location, I'm hoping that really soon I will be capable to take an additional travel vacation there. My hot spot list of exactly where to see in Europe will guide you from the shores of Greenland to the remote villages in Turkey, with another 24 stops in amongst so fasten your seatbelts we're about to take off!!

It really is a wonderful location to retailer all of your helpful data – flight times, hotel names, addresses, conversion prices – you name it. You can also use it as a handy travel journal, as it lets you to upload pictures and audio to notes and it tags your place to every single post (offering 3G or Wi-Fi is enabled). Some thing of a masterpiece in the planet of travel apps, Triposo boasts a vast catalogue of location-specific info.

Bring travel size toiletries for places that do not offer any and maintain in mind that Europe does have drug shops related to the U.S where you can discover most products you may need to have. Never bother with travel guides, most hostels will give them for you and they just take up space. I am a travel photographer, so I actually like apps that help me with my photography.

Source: Option European Destinations

Out of sight, out of mind? Europe's migrant crisis still simmers

© REUTERS/Michalis Karagiannis A woman sits by a wire fence with laundry hanging on it, while children play around her outside of disused Hellenikon airport, where stranded refugees and migrants are temporarily accommodated in Athens A year after hundreds of thousands of refugees snaked their way across southeastern Europe and onto global television screens, the roads through the Balkans are now clear, depriving an arguably worsening tragedy of poignant visibility.

Europe's migrant crisis is at the very least numerically worse than it was last year. More people are arriving and more are dying. But the twist is that, compared with last year, a lot of it is out of sight.

Take the border between Greece and Macedonia. Summer crops have replaced the city of tents at the border outpost of Idomeni, even if some locals are convinced there is an unseen population hiding in the surrounding forests, waiting for smugglers to assist them on their onward journey.

The tiny Greek village was a focal point of the migrant flow north towards Germany and other wealthy countries, with thousands of refugees squatting for months waiting for sealed borders with Macedonia to open

Elsewhere in the Balkans, a Reuters photographer, revisiting the people-packed locations where he and his colleagues captured last year's diaspora, found empty roads, unencumbered railway tracks and bucolic countryside.

The comparison is stark. 

More than one million people fleeing conflict in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan made their way to Europe last year, with the majority of them crossing the precarious sea corridor separating Greece and Turkey, the temporary home for more than 2 million refugees displaced from Syria

They came carrying their worldly belongings in plastic bags and hauling babies on weary shoulders, a visual exodus of the kind not seen in Europe since the end of World War Two.

Many have since reached their destination in northern Europe, but with the borders closed and the European Union now attempting to contain the numbers, thousands are stuck at holding centres in Greece and Italy.

They are not so nearly visible there - nor are the ones still coming.

VISIBILITY DOWN, ARRIVALS UP

According to data from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), arrivals are up 17 percent on last year, stoked mainly by a spike at the start of the year through Greece.

Deaths among those trying to get to Europe, mainly due to drowning, are up more than 15 percent.

"This is not a blip," said David Miliband, a former British foreign minister who now heads the International Rescue Committee, an aid group set up by Albert Einstein - himself a refugee - to rescue Europeans before the outbreak of World War Two.

"The forces that are driving more and more people from their homes - weak states, big tumults within the Islamic world, a divided international system .. None of these things are likely to abate soon."

Some of the mantle of accepting huge migrant flows that was carried by Greece last year and the beginning of this one has been taken up by Italy.

This follows a resurgence of migrant flows from northern Africa. More than 140,000 asylum seekers are now housed in Italian shelters, a seven-fold increase on 2013, with the migrant crisis in its third year.

In Greece, where arrivals plunged in the wake of an accord between Turkey and the EU to stem the flow in March, an estimated 57,000 migrants were still stuck in the country by Aug.8.

Campaigners say the accord has lulled policymakers into a false sense of accomplishment by allowing them to believe that Europe's migration problem has been solved.

"By outsourcing the responsibility to Turkey and to Greece, European governments are basically saying 'we have solved the crisis because we don't see it, and we can't smell it and we can't hear it," said Gauri van Gulik, deputy Europe director at Amnesty International.

"The crisis is as big as ever, and as yet unsolved by governments," she told Reuters.

IOM data says that 258,186 people arrived in Europe by the end of July, compared with 219,854 over the same period in 2015. There were 3,176 fatalities by Aug. 7, outpacing the 2,754 who died in the first eight months of last year, a slightly longer period.

"Its absolutely incredible because if you think about the panic this caused last year and the incentive there was to really get some policy changes in place, nothing has happened," Van Gulik said.

By Michele Kambas and Antonio Bronic

(Additional reporting by Steve Scherer in Rome, Lefteris Papadimas in Athens Editing by Jeremy Gaunt)

Source: Out of sight, out of mind? Europe's migrant crisis still simmers

Poland most attractive investment destination in region

WARSAW: Poland is the most attractive place to invest in the Central-and-Eastern European region and ranks fifth in Europe, a leading expert has said. However, competition from countries such as Hungary, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria in attracting investment, is large, said Jacek Kędzior, managing partner at EY.

"We have conducted a study over several years, using the same methodology. Between February and April, we poll nearly 1,500 decision-makers around the world about what they think about the attractiveness of Europe and the individual European countries.

"Poland is currently in fifth place in terms of its appeal compared to all European countries. [The country was] superseded only by Germany, the UK, France and the Netherlands. We are, in turn, by far the leader of [the CEE] region as the most attractive destination for investment, and this is very good news," Kędzior told the PAP news agency.

Source: Poland most attractive investment destination in region

Europe's migrant crisis is actually worse than it was last year — but much of it is out of sight

A woman sits and looks on outside a building covered up with sheets to protect the dwellers from the strong summer sun outside of the disused Hellenikon airport, where stranded refugees and migrants are temporarily accommodated in Athens Thomson Reuters

ATHENS/ZAGREB (Reuters) - A year after hundreds of thousands of refugees snaked their way across southeastern Europe and onto global television screens, the roads through the Balkans are now clear, depriving an arguably worsening tragedy of poignant visibility.

Europe's migrant crisis is at the very least numerically worse than it was last year. More people are arriving and more are dying. But the twist is that, compared with last year, a lot of it is out of sight.

Take the border between Greece and Macedonia. Summer crops have replaced the city of tents at the border outpost of Idomeni, even if some locals are convinced there is an unseen population hiding in the surrounding forests, waiting for smugglers to assist them on their onward journey.

The tiny Greek village was a focal point of the migrant flow north toward Germany and other wealthy countries, with thousands of refugees squatting for months waiting for sealed borders with Macedonia to open

Elsewhere in the Balkans, a Reuters photographer, revisiting the people-packed locations where he and his colleagues captured last year's diaspora, found empty roads, unencumbered railway tracks and bucolic countryside.

The comparison is stark. 

More than one million people fleeing conflict in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan made their way to Europe last year, with the majority of them crossing the precarious sea corridor separating Greece and Turkey, the temporary home for more than 2 million refugees displaced from Syria.

They came carrying their worldly belongings in plastic bags and hauling babies on weary shoulders, a visual exodus of the kind not seen in Europe since the end of World War Two.

Many have since reached their destination in northern Europe, but with the borders closed and the European Union now attempting to contain the numbers, thousands are stuck at holding centers in Greece and Italy.

They are not so nearly visible there - nor are the ones still coming.

A woman sits by a wire fence with laundry hanging on it, while children play around her outside of disused Hellenikon airport, where stranded refugees and migrants are temporarily accommodated in Athens, Greece, August 10, 2016. Reuters/Michalis Karagiannis Visibility down, arrivals up

According to data from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), arrivals are up 17 percent on last year, stoked mainly by a spike at the start of the year through Greece.

Deaths among those trying to get to Europe, mainly due to drowning, are up more than 15 percent.

"This is not a blip," said David Miliband, a former British foreign minister who now heads the International Rescue Committee, an aid group set up by Albert Einstein - himself a refugee - to rescue Europeans before the outbreak of World War Two.

"The forces that are driving more and more people from their homes - weak states, big tumults within the Islamic world, a divided international system .. None of these things are likely to abate soon."

Some of the mantle of accepting huge migrant flows that was carried by Greece last year and the beginning of this one has been taken up by Italy.

This follows a resurgence of migrant flows from northern Africa. More than 140,000 asylum seekers are now housed in Italian shelters, a seven-fold increase on 2013, with the migrant crisis in its third year.

In Greece, where arrivals plunged in the wake of an accord between Turkey and the EU to stem the flow in March, an estimated 57,000 migrants were still stuck in the country by Aug.8.

Campaigners say the accord has lulled policymakers into a false sense of accomplishment by allowing them to believe that Europe's migration problem has been solved.

"By outsourcing the responsibility to Turkey and to Greece, European governments are basically saying 'we have solved the crisis because we don't see it, and we can't smell it and we can't hear it," said Gauri van Gulik, deputy Europe director at Amnesty International.

"The crisis is as big as ever, and as yet unsolved by governments," she told Reuters.

IOM data says that 258,186 people arrived in Europe by the end of July, compared with 219,854 over the same period in 2015. There were 3,176 fatalities by Aug. 7, outpacing the 2,754 who died in the first eight months of last year, a slightly longer period.

"Its absolutely incredible because if you think about the panic this caused last year and the incentive there was to really get some policy changes in place, nothing has happened," Van Gulik said. 

(Additional reporting by Steve Scherer in Rome, Lefteris Papadimas in Athens Editing by Jeremy Gaunt)

Read the original article on Reuters. Copyright 2016. Follow Reuters on Twitter.

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SEE ALSO: It looks like Germany has drastically curtailed its open-door migrant policy
Source: Europe's migrant crisis is actually worse than it was last year — but much of it is out of sight