Travel Tips for Europe | Rain Travels

Andorra – Skiing in the Land of No Taxes

October 27, 2015

Taxes. What a drag. We work and work and give half our money away. Okay, so it’s necessary, but nobody likes seeing their pay-check being chopped by tax. Wouldn’t it be lovely if there was a place where tax didn’t exist? Where the world was duty-free and you could make your cash go a little bit further?

Every heard of Andorra? Andorra is a tiny principality in the Pyrenees between the borders of France and Spain, and, wait for it, it’s tax free! And just to add to the allure of this place, it also has some gnarly ski slopes and resorts dotted all over the place. So you have tax-free and powder. Taxfree and powder! Oh the joy. Who bestowed this gem on the earth?

Andora Ski Snowboarding Trip Tips Travel Slope

Europe

France’s Top Cycling Climbs

October 24, 2015

Let’s face it. Even if you are not a fan of the sport, you’ve probably heard of France’s biggest annual sporting event: Le Tour de France. Organized for the first time in 1903, Le Tour of France has gained global popularity and attracted millions of people to competitive cycling. The greatest of athletes described this event as being torture and a highly difficult tour to finish, let alone win.

Fortunately, you do not have to face such struggles. While in France explore the epic climbs without the pressure or the commitment. It is a great opportunity to get some exercise and explore the vast landscapes.

Europe, Travel Advice

How to Cycle Like the Dutch

October 20, 2015

If you ever been to the Netherlands, you probably know there is a lot to talk about. Certain buildings, plants and traits define what the Netherlands is all about for a passing visitor or even a local.

There are the lilies, the windmills and the stunning buildings that fill the country with color. There is the freedom of expression and the everlasting traditions of the nation. All this being said, there is one particular aspect of their culture that cannot be stressed enough and it is a must for every traveler that chooses Netherlands as their next vacation destination: bicycling.

Europe

What’s a Surfari?

October 17, 2015

“Let’s go surfing now, everybody surfing now, come on a safari with me.”

In 1962, the surf was definitely up in California and surf rock bands were gaining popularity. The Beach Boys released their ‘Surfing Safari’ and in the same year the band Surfari was formed. Whether or not they coined this term, the surfari has come a long way since adolescents were waxing lyrical about ‘Wipe Outs’ and ‘Surfer Joe’.

Europe

Feeling Bullish For Spain?

October 12, 2015

Spain has always been known for their passionate language, their passionate men and their beautiful landscapes. Fortunately for thrill seekers, those are not the only things Spain is known for. One great piece of history lies in their less conventional sport of bull fighting.

The bullfighting season starts in April and goes until September, with the biggest cities holding events on a weekly basis for tourist entertainment. But the greatest of the most bullfighting events in Spain come only a couple of times in a season. If you want your adrenaline flowing and your heart pounding, here are the two best times to book a vacation to Spain

Europe

Macedonia: The Food Wonderland You Need to Discover

October 10, 2015

Snuggly tucked in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Macedonia hides some of the healthiest, divinely tasty dishes you should add to your “must try” list. Besides their rich history, breathtaking nature, friendly people and befuddling atmosphere, Macedonians are proud of their original cuisine. Positive waiters, loud vendors and smiling ladies in aprons will surround you with tempting offers that cannot be refused. Get ready to put on few pounds on the way!

Europe

Wow air Begins Flying From Canada – Initial Review

October 5, 2015

Wow air will commence operations from Canada to cities in Europe (via Reykjavik, Iceland), including London, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam and Stockholm (among many others) starting May 2016. Their original cling to fame (aka PR stunt) was $99 flights to Europe.

So how well does it actually stack up? My thoughts below:

Europe

German Beer Purity Law

September 25, 2015

Photos courtesy of German National Tourist Office

Ever wonder what makes German beer so good? Or maybe you’re still stumped as to why your hangover was mild or non-existent? A lot has to do with Germany’s Beer Purity Law, dating back to 1434 or 1516 (depends on who you ask). This law, which is still in force, states that beer can only contain hops, malt, yeast and water – nothing else!

Europe

Sushi Delivery In Mykonos Greece?

August 28, 2015

Greece is known for its great seafood cuisine, and experiencing in Mykonos is no exception. But I couldn’t help but wonder, what would sushi delivery compare to back home? So I set out to find out! Surprisingly, it didn’t take me long to find a highly recommended sushi delivery service right in the heart of Mykonos.

Europe

Ios Greece

August 18, 2015

This past July, I had the privilege of joining dozens of travel insiders at Travel Massive’s Unconference event in Ios, Greece.

The conference was generously hosted by the Luxurious brand of hotels and restaurants. As we went through the week’s events, it became clear that Luxurious and its founders are trying to keep Ios Greece from going the way of the other islands in the region in becoming a party haven, but to position it as a sustainable, luxury island.