Adventure Travel
Christmas Party In Another Country?
We’ve all been there: the work Christmas party, holding a glass of wine whilst mingling amongst co-workers, and the food on offer just hasn’t been up to scratch. We wished we were far away, on a sunny beach somewhere, still bedecked in tinsel, but just haven’t had the opportunity or means to do so. Well, now you can!
Here’s the plan: you come up with a Christmas party location for you, your family, and your friends, and then take yourselves away for the weekend of a lifetime. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but be prepared to spend some money on pampering you and your loved ones. Here’s the action station you’ve been looking for when it comes to sharing in a little festive cheer.
Why Should I Have a Party Abroad?
For the sense of the adventure alone, surely? Having a party abroad is one of the most fun things you can do, unless you’re the kind of person who can’t stand travel. However, that only takes a few hours and the trip itself makes the cost absolutely worth it!
We can get bored with our own surroundings, and sometimes it feels like if you stay at home, all you’re going to get are party hats and small slices of cake. So, when it comes to changing up your style, one of the best ways to mark it is with a trip and stay across the pond.
There’s so much for you to do and see around the globe, from meeting new people to trying new food to sleeping in hostels for a taste of the adventuring life to working off of your laptop whilst hiking in the Himalayas. It all sounds so exciting when you lay it out like that, don’t you think? Being able to have a party on top of that just makes it all the better, and there’s no better time for those plans than the approaching festivities.
The Best Party Countries
A lot of destinations pride themselves on their tourist options, and that means there’s plenty of service to go around for your partying needs. And no, you don’t have to head to the USA to try these party ideas out! A lot of countries around the world hold this kind of title, but let’s face it, you can choose anywhere you want to go.
One of the top countries for these venues and accommodations is Germany, with plenty of nightclubs around cities such as Berlin and Munich. These nightclubs don’t even have to legally close on weekends, so the dance til’ you drop world is your oyster here. Drinking in public is another bonus, as long as you’re well behaved as you do it! Try and get into these places on a Sunday evening, as this is the quietest and most likely time for you to find a spot. Monday won’t hurt when you’re on holiday!
Portugal is another great country for you to host a Christmas party in, and the perpetual sun the nearer you go to the southern hemisphere means you can recline on a lounger whilst sipping a bit of mulled wine. If that’s not for you, there’s plenty more wine on offer and at cheap prices, as Portugal likes to sell their green bottles of vino off of every street corner and often in bulk.
And if neither of those hotspots are for you, there’s the classic option of heading to Thailand. There’s plenty of islands for you to consider with venues and tourist specialities to look into. Plenty of students on their gap years head here to experience the kind of fast paced life you wouldn’t get anywhere else, so if you’re a confident and free spirit and that’s been cultivated by your family, this is the place to be.
The Transport from Hotel to Venue
When we’re on vacation, we don’t know the local rules of the road, despite being able to follow the signs. However, we don’t necessarily have to drive down them ourselves, as taxis and buses exist, if you want a little more of a taste of what’s on offer amongst the people!
If you’re staying within walking distance of a beach or a nightclub, use this to your advantage and have nighttime strolls in the street and moonlight. Do it as a group so none of you feel alone or unsafe in your surroundings, and pick out some beautiful spots you wouldn’t have noticed during the day when it’s so crowded.
If you are hosting a party instead of just taking a standard Christmas holiday abroad, even the transport for this can be arranged in style! If you’re around somewhere with main roads and your near the downtown area, you can usually find a range of luxury limousines for hire. These make everything feel at least 10x more glamorous than they already did, plus it’s a lot more fun than having to drive yourself around!
The Staying Safe Tips
Everyone needs to know these, and to be honest they’re quite the same as the ones at home. If you’re looking to have fun and some freedom, and we all are so there’s no shame in it, do it responsibly and make sure you’re surrounded by friends on a night out in an unknown scene. Just because it’s Christmas for you doesn’t mean the whole world takes a break!
Pace yourself and have an agreement with the people you’re with: no one is allowed to drink too much alcohol so they can’t stand! Know the area and the easiest route to get back to where you’re staying, and try to stick together. It’s as simple as that!
2017 could end with a good run if you decide to have a party abroad and spend your Christmas surrounded by shores, sand, and presents that you wouldn’t get anywhere else due to their local nature. There’s a lot for you to consider before you go away, and plenty of package deals are on offer right now.
Adventure Travel
A Beginner’s Guide to Yacht Charters: How to Choose the Right Yacht and Plan the Perfect Trip
Yacht charters offer a unique and luxurious way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations. Whether you’re looking to spend a week exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, or you want to take a romantic trip to the Mediterranean, a yacht charter is an excellent option. Phuket is an excellent location to charter a yacht and is one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the world.
However, choosing the right yacht and planning the perfect trip can be a daunting task for those who are new to yacht charters. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your yacht charter experience a success.
Consider the Size of the Yacht Needed
Yachts come in a variety of sizes, from small sailing boats to large motor yachts. Consider how many people will be traveling with you, and how much space you’ll need for your trip. You’ll also want to think about the type of activities you want to do on your trip. If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, a smaller sailing yacht may be the way to go. But if you’re looking for a more luxurious and spacious experience, a larger motor yacht may be a better choice.
- Small Sailing Yachts: These are typically 30-50 feet in length and are ideal for more intimate and adventurous trips.
- Mid-Size Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 50-80 feet in length and offer more space and amenities than small sailing yachts.
- Large Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 80 feet or longer and offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort.
- Superyachts: These are the largest yachts, typically over 100 feet in length, and are often custom built to the highest standards.
Consider a Place to Discover
Yacht charters are available all over the world, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, so choose a location that appeals to you and your travel companions. Research the destinations you’re interested in, and find out what the weather will be like during your trip. You’ll also want to consider the time of year that you’re traveling, as some destinations may be more expensive during peak season.
Here are some popular yacht destinations:
Mediterranean: The Mediterranean region is a top destination for yacht charters, with its turquoise waters, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Some popular destinations include the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and the Greek islands.
Caribbean: The Caribbean is a popular yacht charter destination for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. Some popular islands include the British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, and Antigua.
Bahamas: The Bahamas are another popular yacht charter destination, known for its stunning crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and tropical landscapes.
Maldives: The Maldives is a group of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant sea life.
Thailand: Thailand is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, vibrant local culture, and rich history. Some popular destinations for yacht charters in Thailand include the Andaman Sea, Phuket, and Koh Samui
beautiful beach view Koh Chang island and Tour boat for tourists seascape at Trad province Eastern of Thailand on blue sky background , Sea island of Thailand landscape
Plan Ahead
When it comes to planning the perfect trip, timing is everything. Booking your yacht charter early is key to ensuring that you get the yacht and destination that you want. Don’t wait until the last minute to book, as yachts can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s also a good idea to book well in advance if you’re traveling during the holidays, as yachts tend to be in high demand during these times.
Yacht Charter Cost
Another important factor to consider when planning your yacht charter is the cost. Yacht charters can be expensive, so you’ll want to budget for your trip carefully. Consider the cost of the yacht, fuel, food, and other expenses. Some yacht charters may include some or all of these expenses, so be sure to ask about what’s included when you’re booking. You may also want to look for yacht charter deals or discounts to help save money on your trip.
Think About the Crew
Finally, you’ll want to consider the crew. Yacht charters typically come with a crew that includes a captain, chef, and other members. Consider the size of the crew, and make sure that they have the experience and skills you need for your trip. You’ll also want to make sure that the crew is friendly and professional, and that they can accommodate any special requests or needs you may have.
Final Thoughts
A yacht charter is an excellent way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations in style and comfort. With a little bit of planning and research, you can choose the right yacht and plan the perfect trip for you and your travel companions. So start exploring your options today, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Adventure Travel
Medieval Towns with German Castles Near Munich & Frankfurt
Our favorite castles in Germany near Frankfurt and Munich:
Neuschwanstein Castle is there somewhere amongst all the fog!
We were crazy enough to visit Neuschwanstein Castle on a public holiday. This meant that along with all the Asian tourists, there were an awful lot of Germans. Plus, even though we arrived by 11 am, the soonest tickets we could buy were for the German tour at 2.30 pm, as the terms in English were sold out until 4 pm. So, if you don’t have German friends at hand to translate the tour for you, we recommend booking in advance online. The castle was impressive, and the time was undoubtedly fascinating! Don’t worry, I won’t spill the beans, but the manmade Grotto room made my jaw drop!
Mespelbrunn Castle
Mespelbrunn Castle is located on a pond between Frankfurt and Wurzburg. Unfortunately, we arrived 30 minutes after its closing time of 5 pm, but it looked cool from behind the fence!
Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle is located on a clifftop near Stuttgart and costs 6 euros per person for a tour in German; however, they did give us a very informative written guide in English. This castle is small compared to Hohenzollern castle, but its story is fascinating. Tanks shelled it in World War II, and today you can still see the cracked mirror from where a small fragment of a tank grenade ricocheted!
Hohenzollern Castle
Hohenzollern Castle is not too far from Lichtenstein Castle. It is located on a hilltop near Hechingen, and we enjoyed the guided tour. Along with getting to wear GIANT slippers, make sure you explore the casemates and secret passages. One sign made me want to learn more. It read, “Exactly where these steps lead to is unknown. More casemates and secret passageways are likely waiting to be discovered in the heart of the mountain”!
Heidelberg Castle
Heidelberg Castle was a lot larger than we expected! Unfortunately, we had spent far too much time at the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim, so we did not have time to explore this castle. But if we get the chance, we will explore the town and its castle next time in Germany.
On our drive from Munich to Frankfurt, we also loved:
Andechs Monastery
The beer garden at Andechs Monastery was just like Oktoberfest but amongst trees and more family-friendly. The beer was cheaper, and the food was great, including the giant pork knuckle, which Moss could not finish. It was also fun walking up multiple flights of stairs to the tower’s very top.
River surfing in Munich
Rothenburg
Three hours in Rothenburg was not enough to explore this wonderful medieval town! We recommend getting your hands on a city map from the tourist information office. We enjoyed Roder Gate, walking along the wall and exploring the 17th-century spital bastion, plus Moss lost me in the Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop for over half an hour, and I didn’t even buy anything!
Bamberg was a neat town with old buildings in the center of the river and had a famous smoked beer which Moss just had to try!
I’m not the hugest car or plane fanatic, but even I enjoyed the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim. A highlight for me was sliding out of an airplane (from the museum’s roof)!
Don’t go out of your way to see it, but the world’s narrowest street in Reutlingen is worth a photo if you are passing through.
In Frankfurt, go to the old part of town for an apfelwein and see the Frau Rauscher statue – watch out, she spits about every 12 seconds!
The average person would Google Munich to Frankfurt and see that it only takes about 3 ½ hours depending on how fast you wish to drive on the autobahn! However, we are NOT typical. We took one look at train prices and decided that hiring a car wouldn’t cost too much more.
Suppose you’re interested in traveling to Germany for a damn good deal. In that case, plenty of tour companies have some pretty unique and affordable vacation packages to Berlin, Munich, and Bavaria.
It may be small, but this building on Trappensee Lake is classed as a water castle!
We aren’t going to tell you our exact route. Still, after surviving Oktoberfest in Munich, we did a giant zigzag to see as many castles and medieval towns as possible. So to save you doing so much driving, we have picked our favorite cities and castles. First of all, ‘Ausfahrt’ is not a destination accessible from every off-ramp! It means ‘Exit’! Another word of wisdom to keep in mind is that the autobahns with speed limits do have speed cameras… and the flash is blinding!
Adventure Travel
Running with the Bulls Video
Our shaky Running with the Bulls Video footage from the Festival de San Fermin in 2012. Experience it first hand in Pamplona. Enjoy.
We recently wrote about our life or death experience of Running with the Bulls this year at the Festival of San Fermin in Pamplona. On that run, I carried along with our GoPro video camera and tried to shoot some footage for our running with the video of the bull.
Running with the Bulls
All our travel video shooting techniques went out the window when the bulls’ hooves started to shake the ground beneath our feet.
Once we had lined up for the running with the bulls, there was no escape from it as we were walled in by apartment blocks, shopfront windows, and 3-meter high wooden barriers packed with photographers along the entire length. At one end lay the relative safety of the bull ring pulsating with the cheers of the crowd who were still partying from the night before. Behind me, a dozen wild bulls pawed the stony ground looking for freedom.
Unfortunately, I was standing in their path.
What we ended up with is below. However, I think what we filmed for our running with the bull video captures the chaos, craziness, and complete madness a lot better than if I had stood my ground.
Enjoy it and watch for the guy that nearly gets trampled to death near the beginning!
Running with the Bulls Video
Would you ever consider running with the bulls?
While we are very aware that not all people agree that the San Fermin Festival should be allowed to go ahead mainly due to animal cruelty, we think there are two sides to every story. We wrote a post about the controversy surrounding Bullfighting in Spain and the Festival de San Fermin.
We would love to hear your thoughts on the Festival de San Fermin and whether you would ever consider running with the bulls.
If you want to join the next Festival of San Fermin or any other wild festivals in Europe, such as Sail Turkey, book with our partners Busabout.
We have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...
