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How to Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day in Iceland

Find out how all about How to Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day in Iceland, including visiting Geysir and Gulfoss and staying at Vatnsholt Hostel.

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Self Drive the Golden Circle with Icelandic horses

Everyone that visits Iceland cannot miss the Golden Circle tour. But the ultimate question is whether you should see the Golden Circle with a tour company or self-drive the Golden Circle in one day yourself? I highly recommend doing the latter.

And if you want to self-drive the Golden Circle, these travel tips will help you on your next adventure to Iceland.

Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day in Iceland

How to Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day

Tour companies can be significant. But being herded onto and off a bus all day as you try to get around all the sites along the Golden Circle route seems ridiculous. Wouldn’t you rather have the freedom to stop whenever you wanted to take some photos, go toilet, or chill out staring at a waterfall?

Visiting Gulfoss Falls Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day

Visiting Gulfoss Waterfall – Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day

What kind of rental car do I need in Iceland?

Depending on the time of year and your travel plans, you should be fine just getting a small sedan. We hired the cheapest car from Hertz, and it worked out perfectly. Since we covered a vast distance during our entire trip, we wanted to make sure it was fuel-efficient and comfortable.

If you are heading there in winter (November – March), you may want to consider picking up a 4×4. Some roads can be closed, and the roads are very icy/snowy. Check the Iceland road conditions on this official website before heading out.

What is the best Golden Circle route I should take?

There are no set routes if you self-drive the Golden Circle. You either head clockwise or anti-clockwise. But the best part of the Golden Circle route is that you will have to try hard to get lost. That’s not saying it can’t be done because we somehow missed the turnoff coming out of Reykjavik, but you have to ignore all the big signs pointing out the attractions along the way.

You are starting from Reykjavik, head in a clockwise direction towards your first stop, which will be the Continental Divide between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. You can go diving here and wander around for a good hour, exploring the many pathways.

Or if the wind is howling and it is freezing like it was the day we did it, run around for 10 minutes grabbing some photos, then bugger off again.

Silfra-Tectonic-Plates-splitting-in-Iceland.jpg

The next major stop along Highway 35 on your Golden Circle route is the Geysir minefield, aptly known as Geysir.

Stinking like rotting eggs, the sulfur and steam rise from the ground as you pull up to the information center and cafe. This is a perfect stop for a bit of coffee and a late brunch snack. If you do stop to warm your insides, then this also gives you time to judge your visit between any tour buses that might show up. Just wait half an hour, and they will all be herded back onto their diesel belching coaches, and you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity by yourselves.

Visiting Geysir during Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day in Iceland

Visiting Geysir – Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day

The final major stop around the Golden Circle is the cascading Gulfoss Waterfall.

We were a little underwhelmed as we were there at the end of the winter season, and a lot of the water was still trapped beneath the frozen lakes and glaciers to the north. Still, it was beautiful with the ice creeping up the frozen canyon walls from the bitter northerly winds while dripping icicles hung precariously over the waterfall’s lips.

Make sure you take the steps down into the canyon and walk along the river pathway. Well worth the mini-hike, and you can feel the spray from Gulfoss as you explore the path.

Gulfoss Waterfall Self Drive the Golden Circle in One Day in Iceland

While these are the three significant stops along the Golden Circle, these shouldn’t be the only reasons you stop.

Around every bend, along every straight, and over each hill, there are many photographic opportunities to snap. I couldn’t get enough of the landscape. So while Adela was quite happy to keep her toes warm under the car heater, I was busy running around the car like photography loony.

Plus, have you seen how adorable the Icelandic horses are?

Self Drive the Golden Circle with Icelandic horses

Golden Circle Self Drive in Iceland

What time should I leave on my self drive around the Golden Circle?

Luckily as you are your boss today, you get to have a sleep-in and a leisurely start to the day. Most tour companies will leave before 8 am to have enough time to make it around all the sights and still be back in Reykjavik by 5 pm.

We left at 10 am, perfect because most tour buses were a couple of hours ahead of us. This allowed us to have a lot more space at the major attractions and not jostle elbow to elbow trying to get the best photographs. We also didn’t return to Reykjavik (see below), so we could take our time at each stop.

Where to stay if you self drive the Golden Circle in one day

While most people will base themselves in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, we decided we wanted to stay further along the South Coast as that was where we were headed next. Our choice was simple, the beautiful Vatnsholt Hostel in Selfoss. Plus, it is also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern lights.

Vatnsholt Hostel Review

Location

Vatnsholt is located just over an hour from Reykjavík off Highway 1. It is a perfect location after you have driven the Golden Circle as you don’t have to go back into the city.

The Rooms

Our room was private inside their old home, which had been renovated. There are other rooms there, with a big shared kitchen and lounge, but we were the only ones staying in Vatnsholt Hostel at the time.

Vatnsholt Hostel Review

The sunset from Vatnsholt Hostel

Other Amenities

The kitchen inside our apartment was perfect, and they had this crazy fancy shower with about 40 buttons inside. We spent ages just trying to figure out how to make it work! They also have free WiFi and are one of the best restaurants that I have ever eaten at. The breakfast buffet selection in the morning is never-ending (get the waffles), and make sure you eat dinner there at least once.

Staff

The owners are amicable and went out of their way to ensure we were comfortable, and well looked after. Make sure you ask Johann and Margret to show you the dancing goat video.

Social Atmosphere

There wasn’t much of a social atmosphere as it was the end of the winter season. A busload of tourists did show up around midnight to watch the Northern Lights one of the evenings, but we didn’t chat to them.

Cost

$60 US for a private room for two people.

Overall

We fell in love with Vatnsholt Hostel and would have stayed longer if we had the time. Unfortunately, we had to buzz off along the coast for a few days, but it would be the perfect base if you had an extra week or two in Iceland. The owners have also lived in the area for years, so they have plenty of local knowledge that you should use, such as finding the private geothermal hot pools up in the hills…

It is the best place to stay if you plan to self-drive the Golden Circle in one day and then explore the south coast afterward.

Disclaimer: We were guests of Vatnsholt Hostel, and thanks to HostelWorld for organizing, but as always, our thoughts are always our own.

Have you driven than the Golden Circle before? Or did you take a tour bus? What were your highlights?

Cole is one half of New Zealand's leading adventure travel blogging couple who have been wearing out their jandals around the world since 2009. He loves any adventure activities and anything to do with the water whether it is Surfing, Diving, Swimming, Snorkeling or just lounging nearby on the beach. You can follow Cole on Google+. Or consider following us via RSS Feed, Twitter, Facebook and subscribe to our Newsletter.

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What is the best casino cashback bonus Ireland has to offer?

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Bonuses are a big feature of online casino play and are something that you don’t get at brick-and-mortar casinos. Online casinos in Ireland offer different types of incentives that can put a little back in a player’s pocket.

One of those is a cashback deal, which is one of the newer types of casino bonuses to hit the scene. Here, we explore just what casino cashback deals are, how they reward players and look at the many shapes and forms they come in.

 

What are casino cashback bonuses?

To clear the air a little bit about the best casino cashback bonuses Ireland, there is more than one type. This variety gives players the opportunity to choose the ideal rewards scenario.

 

Welcome bonus cashback

On landing at any of the leading online casinos in Ireland, such as Slotbox or SpinAway, a welcome bonus offer will greet new players. These are incentives designed to hook people up with a bonus just for walking through the virtual casino doors.

These are usually linked to the initial deposit on the account. A casino will match a certain amount of the value of a deposit by crediting bonus cash – and perhaps some free spins thrown in.

 

Reload cashback

A similar way to get cashback at an online casino is through reload bonuses. These work in the same manner as welcome bonuses, but just under their own steam and are available for existing players. Top up an account and a certain amount, perhaps 50%, will be matched as a bonus.

 

Cashback on losses

Casino cashback is a rewards program that credits a certain amount of lost stake back. How much is paid will depend on the terms of the offer and how much stake has been lost. These commonly operate on a weekly promotional basis.

 

Casino cashback factors to consider

There are different components to cashback offers at online casinos. It will come down to the type of offer, but some common elements to look for are:

Cashback percentage terms

The definition of how much can be credited from a single online casino bonus can differ from site to site. For a cashback on losses deal, it could be a 50% return of lost stake at one casino, and 30% at another. Welcome bonus cashback deals will also be determined by percentage of the initial deposit.

 

Time period

The validity of bonuses at online casinos is a major factor as well. Welcome bonuses generally have to be claimed within a couple of weeks of registering an account. The full completion of wagering requirements will also have a time limit. It boils down to terms not being met and the bonus being voided in a use-it-or-lose-it scenario.

 

Maximum payback

Of vital importance is what the maximum payback may be. The terms of a 50% cashback deal that’s capped at €200 are vastly different to one that credits 100% but is capped at a maximum of €50. It’s all about the individual player, their overall budget and what’s realistic in terms of wagering requirements.

 

Wagering requirements

Wagering requirements are found on most online casino bonuses, particularly welcome offers. These are the terms of how many times a bonus amount has to be matched before it’s released as real cash.

As an example, a €10 bonus at x35 wagering requirements would need €350 staked in real cash before the bonus is released. Sometimes, the wagering requirements specify that both the deposit amount and bonus amounts must meet wagering requirements.

Types of rewards

The most common form of credit to an account through a casino bonus is in the form of bonus cash, but it’s not the only form:

 

Bonus cash

Bonus cash, tokens or whatever it is, is not real cash. Players normally hold a bonus balance and a real cash balance. Bonus cash may be restricted to certain games and can’t be cashed out, nor can any winnings from it, until wagering requirements have been fulfilled.

 

Cash

At online casinos, cash is cash. If there is money cleared in an account, then it holds its true value. That cash balance can be played or withdrawn.

 

Free spins

Another type of credit that can be received at online casinos is free spins. Sometimes these are packaged as extra incentives with bonus cash or are standalone feature rewards. These also won’t escape the grasp of wagering requirements, but usually only on the winnings and at a much lower turnover than bonus cash.

A small selection of the best cashback bonuses

 

Slotbox

Slotbox has a cashback bonus through its welcome offer for newly registered customers in Ireland. With wagering requirements on the lower end of the scale, it is a good one to check out. Slotbox has a tremendous range of games from leading providers, with 24/7 support and VIP rewards.

 

SpinAway Casino

There are more than 1,000 slots to explore at SpinAway Casino. There’s a wide variety, plus a big range of live casino features as well as Irish Lottery and bingo. An available cashback welcome bonus includes some free spins.

LuckyDays Casino

Crypto-friendly site LuckyDays also gets in on the cashback offer, where a bonus can be claimed across each of the initial three deposits on an account. The first of those is a 100% matched bonus. Further reload bonuses and a loyalty program add more.

 

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Paris on a Budget: Best Cheap Eats in Paris

While Paris used to be regarded as an expensive city, you can now enjoy Paris on a Budget. Use our guide to find the Best Cheap Eats in Paris.

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paris woman smiling eating the french pastry macar 2021 08 28 23 14 41 utc 2

Although Paris has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities globally, the rumors are now unfounded. In 2012, Paris dropped ten places in the Mercer cost of living survey. And with the Euro looking weak, now is probably a good time to find cheap flights and discover the city of love on a budget.

Eating in Paris can catch a lot of tourists out. Avoid the expensive restaurants serving fancy dishes like salmon wellington and snooty maître d’s on the Champs Elysees and follow our guide for the best cheap eats in Paris.  Spend less on food and possibly splurge on friendly hotels in Paris instead!

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Girl eating croissant in Paris

Best Cheap Eats in Paris

Best Cheap eats in Paris, Eiffel Tower at Night, Paris

Head to the Marais

Famous for its selection of ethnic eateries, the trendy Marais area of Paris is perfect for picking up a quick snack.

Check out L’As du Falafel, where you can grab a flatbread bursting with golden fried balls of falafel, smothered in hummus and accompanied with red cabbage. For €4 to take away, you can’t argue with that. Simply head to Chez Hanna down the street for equally tasty food at similarly low prices if it’s too busy.

Best eats in Paris, The Louvre, Paris

Enjoy an Oriental baguette.

Vietnamese food is popular in France, and nowhere can you see the fusion of two cultures more clearly than at Saigon Sandwich in the Belleville district of Paris.  Their specialty, banh mi, is light and crusty French baguette filled with flavors of South East Asia.

There are only a few options (poulet, boeuf, Maison, and unique), but for €3 ago, you could happily sample them all.

Find French food on the cheap.

Believe it or not, there are some restaurants specializing in French cuisine that won’t see you stumbling into your overdraft. Les Temps des Cerises is one of them.

Described by Yelp as a “Dive Bar,” nothing could be further from the truth.  Run by a cooperative, it attracts a distinctly bohemian crowd. The menu is small, but the food is prepared from ingredients that sing with freshness and high quality.

View from the top of Arc de Triomphe

Eat like a local celebrity …

Rumour has it that Pierre Herme, one of Paris’s most celebrated pastry chefs, visits the Belleville restaurant Le Baratin. The prices are surprisingly low for the delicious Argentinian fare.

Time Out Magazine recommends the tuna carpaccio with cherries or the spicy basque lamb. Pop in at lunchtime for the prixe fix menu. At €18 for three courses it’s hard to complain.

… or eat like a local office worker

Bistro Victoires is a favorite amongst Paris’s locals. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, and the wine list leaves a lot to be desired, but when you sit down to enjoy some of the best steak frites in Paris, all else will be forgiven.

Portion sizes are enormous, and the waiters often remind patrons that if they order a starter, they won’t be able to tackle the main course. Despite being a famous location steps away from the Palais Royal, it still manages to be a hidden gem.

Champs-Elysees Sunset

What are your tips for finding the best cheap eats in Paris?

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Travel Tip: Train to Pisa from Florence

Whether you spend a half-day or full day in Pisa, we recommend that you Train to Pisa from Florence. It’s the fastest and cheapest way to get there.

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train to pisa

Traveling by train is one of the best ways to see the beautiful countryside of Italy. The train from Florence to Pisa takes about an hour, and the journey is stunning. The route takes you past vineyards and medieval villages, through tunnels and over bridges, with breathtaking views of the Tuscan hillsides. You can even see the Leaning Tower of Pisa as the train approaches the station.

Woman traveling by train looking out of window

Upon arrival in Pisa, you can explore the historic center and visit the famous cathedral, before enjoying a leisurely lunch overlooking the River Arno. With its stunning scenery and convenient location, a train trip from Florence to Pisa is a great way to spend a day in Italy.

Leaning tower of Pisa, HDR, Italy

How to get to Pisa from Florence

You have a couple of different options for your own half-day trip to Pisa from Florence depending on how you like to travel. But if you are like us and enjoy travelling around Italy by public transport, then you will definitely want to train to Pisa from Florence.

Train to Pisa from Florence

Florence and Pisa are less than 100 km apart and the easiest way is to train to Pisa from Florence. The entire trip one-way takes approximately an hour depending on your route with no transfers.

Trains leave from Florence S.M.Novella for Pisa Centrale a few times every hour. The closest train station to the leaning tower of Pisa is Pisa San Rossore, but it’s not worth the extra time or transfer required. Pisa itself is small and it takes less than 30 minutes to walk to the leaning tower from Pisa Centrale.

Plus you get to explore more of the city such as the River Arno lined with beautiful stately homes.

Pisa River, train from pisa to florence

If you want to book online then a one-way ticket by train to Pisa from Florence will cost from €7.80 (US$10.40) in 2nd class. It is important to make sure that when you are searching online via the Italian train booking site, Trenitalia, you search for “Firenze” rather than Florence.

The train schedules are very easy to understand so we recommend booking your ticket from the self-service machines on the train platform. The return journey is just as easy in reverse. Just watch that you don’t miss the last train around 10pm most days and carry cash with you for the ticket.

Finally, validate your ticket before boarding the train. We forgot a couple of times but used the typical “I’m a stupid tourist” line to get out of any fines.

Bus to Pisa from Florence

Another option is to catch the bus to Pisa from Florence.

There are two main bus companies, Terravision and Autostradale, run regular buses to and from Pisa Airport and Florence Airport into the Florence city centre, they don’t actually go into Pisa itself. The train to Pisa from Florence is so reliable, fast, and cheap, that you may not want to consider this option.

However, there are some advantages to taking the bus. You will see a lot more scenery from the window of the bus, and it’s definitely cheaper; sometimes you can find fares as low as 4 Euros, especially on Fridays.

Travel Guide to visiting Pisa from Florence

Driving to Pisa from Florence

If you have hired a car or scooter in Tuscany then you might look at driving to Pisa from Florence. However, even though the distance is less than 100km, the trip will still take approximately 1 hour.

Aside from the fact that the train to Pisa from Florence typically takes less time than driving, you also have to avoid the crazy Italian drivers. Not to mention trying to find a carpark in two of the most popular cities in Italy. Impossible.

Travel to Pisa from Florence by train, Leaning tower of Pisa HDR

Guided Tour to Pisa from Florence

If you have been enjoying the sunset in Florence and all the city has to offer then you might want to take in a guided tour to Pisa from Florence. Not only do you get a great guide to learn all about the history of the area, you also don’t have to worry about getting to Pisa from Florence.

You might want to check out this guided tour around Pisa or get a little bit more adventurous and try out a segway tour in Pisa. Perfect for the family and it will keep the kids entertained between stops.

If you have a whole day, and haven’t managed to fit in a hike around Cinque Terre, then we recommend looking into the Pisa and Cinque Terre day tour. Lasting roughly 12 hours, you will travel from Florence to Cinque Terre, with a 2 hour stop in Pisa to see all the main sights.

We also reckon guides help you get the best photos, as they have seen all the poses.

Adela funny jumping Pisa

Tell us below if you have taken any funny photos in Pisa!

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Meet Cole and Adela

Cole and AdelaWe 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...

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