Germany—the Land of Poets and Thinkers—is not only home to world-renowned composers like Beethoven, Bach, Brahms, Schumann, and Wagner. It is also well-loved by tourists for its stunning sceneries and landscapes, serene rolling hills, picturesque meadows dotted with grazing cattle, quaint medieval villages, rich culture, and hearty, scrumptious German cuisine, among others. If you want a cornucopia of unique experiences rolled into one great adventure, you definitely have to put Germany at the top of your travel bucket list.

Traveling to Germany for the first time could be a daunting and thrilling experience. At the same time, it can also be overwhelming and intimidating if you absolutely know nothing about the country you’re visiting. For such reasons, it will be helpful to book a Germany guided tour to make sure everything is already taken care of for you so that the trip will go effortlessly smooth sailing. If you are unsure where to begin for your preparations, this ultimate travel guide to successfully exploring Germany is an excellent starting point!

The Basics You Should Know

First things first, here are the basic things you should know about Germany before hopping on that plane:

Requirements for Entry for US Citizens

Germany is a Schengen country, which means that tourists from the allied 27 European countries don’t need to present a passport to gain entry to Germany. With little to no border control at their mutual borders, tourists from the other Schengen countries can seamlessly cross borders into their neighboring countries, including Germany.

Now, if you’re from the US, you would need to present a passport to be allowed entry in Germany. This U.S. passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond the intended departure date from the Schengen area.

Budget Allocation

The prices of lodging and commodities in Germany are definitely cheaper than in the US, so you would find that most things are affordable here. If you are an average spender, expect to shell out $55 to $90 per day on accommodation, food, and transportation. Meanwhile, mid-range travelers may have to spend around $110 to $160 per day, and luxury spenders may have to shell out $200 or more daily.

The Best Time to Visit Germany

Like most European countries, Germany has four seasons, each having its unique charm and appeal. This means that the best time to visit Germany would ultimately depend on your preferences.

Summer

If you like to participate in outdoor activities and festivities, it is best to visit Germany during its summer months—from June to August. However, take note that this is also the peak season, so there will inevitably be larger crowds, and the commodities tend to be more expensive.

Winter

Meanwhile, if you fancy engaging in winter sports, it is best to visit during the winter months—from December to February. Expect that the quaint German villages will have a snow-capped snow globe-like charm to them. Additionally, prices of accommodations and commodities tend to be lower since the crowds are sparse during the cold winter months. However, take note that many stores are closed down for the winter, except during the days leading up to Christmas. The German Christmas Markets are definitely not to be missed!

Spring and Fall

The shoulder season in Germany falls under both Spring—from April to May—and fall—from September to October. During these months, the weather tends to be milder, the prices of hotels and commodities tend to be lower than in the summer season, and there are also fewer tourists around.

Festivals and Events

Germany is known for having two essential festivals: the Oktoberfest and Christmas Markets.

Oktoberfest is a festival held yearly in Munich that celebrates beer, food, and Bavarian culture, along with some live music and carnival rides for 16 days straight. This world-renowned festival runs from late September to early October, attracting countless visitors from all around the world.

On the other hand, come late November til the end of December, Germany transforms its tranquil towns into a magical winter wonderland, complete with snow-dusted Christmas trees and cobbled lanes. During winter, everywhere you look, you will see festive wooden huts draped in lush Christmas garlands, sparkling string lights, and handcrafted Christmas ornaments and gifts. The delightful smell of roasted nuts, gingerbread, mulled wine, and German sausage hangs around the air as you make your way through the German Christmas markets. Christmas in Germany is truly the jolliest time of the year!

Transportation

Germany boasts an extensive public transportation network comprising of buses, trams, U-Bahn (or subways), and trains. You don’t really need to rely solely on driving cars to get around the area, as Germany’s public transportation system is reliable, efficient, clean, and comfortable to use.

If you want to get to your destination quicker, you should ride ICE Trains, which are speedy but tend to be expensive. On the other hand, regional trains tend to be slower in terms of speed but are much more affordable. But if you are on a tight budget, riding the bus will do as it is the least expensive option. You can even plan your travel using public transportation via apps like Deutsche Bahn or Rome2Rio.

To ensure a hitch-free ride, make sure you always validate your ticket at the machine in the stations before you board the train or bus. And do take note of the schedule of the vehicles as the trains in Germany are very punctual. They arrive on the dot, so it is important for you to arrive at the station early so you won’t miss your train. Lastly, you may need to push a button to open the doors so you can get off at your stop, or may need to alert the driver that your stop is approaching.

Best Places to Visit

Germany has a pocketful of mesmerizing sights, medieval architecture, and landscapes to marvel at. At a glance, here are the best places to add to your itinerary:

City Escapades

• Berlin

Germany’s capital city is one of the top tourist destinations, thanks to its marvelous museums, opulent art, and vibrant culture. This is the best place to appreciate Germany’s striking contrasts, where the past and present intermingle as historical buildings stand alongside modern architecture.

• Munich

It is Bavaria’s capital, which is known as the home of the world-famous Oktoberfest celebration. If you love beer, you will love Munich’s beer halls, most especially the famed Hofbräuhaus.

• Köln (Cologne)

This two-millennia-old city is famed for its twin-spired Cologne Cathedral and its gilded medieval reliquary alongside sweeping river views.

Quaint Medieval Towns

• Rothenburg ob der Tauber

This German town nestled in northern Bavaria is known for its charming medieval architecture. As you walk its cobblestone streets, you’ll be amazed at the panoramic sight of its well-maintained half-timbered houses. Arguably, this is the best medieval town in Germany.

• Nuremberg

Back in the Middle Ages, the Imperial Castle in Nuremberg was once considered the most important imperial palace in the Holy Roman Empire. For centuries, the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg stood as a secure base and prestigious residence for the head of the Empire.

Charming Fairytale-Like Castles

• Neuschwanstein Castle

This fairytale-like castle nestled deep within the Bavarian Alps is one of Germany’s best tourist attractions. It is famously known as the inspiration for the castle design of Disney’s Cinderella. This castle was built by the orders of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who was infamously known as the “mad King Ludwig.” The ever-so-beautiful castle of Neuschwanstein was supposedly a hideaway for this reclusive mad king.

• Burg Eltz

This 1,000-year-old fairy tale castle is nestled at the heart of the hills above the Moselle between Koblenz and Trier. It is among the oldest castles in Germany, and to this day, it is still owned by the House of Eltz, a clan who have lived there since the beginning of the 12th century.

Orlando, Florida is a favorite tourist destination for vacationers for many good reasons. It’s the theme park capital of the world, the home of the world-famous Magic Kingdom Park that takes you back to your childhood. Going around can be challenging if it’s your first time visiting the city. Tagging children along is even harder considering all the stuff you need to bring for the trip.

When planning your Orlando vacation, it’s always strategic to bundle your car rental in Orlando with hotel stays. Planning your trip this way saves you time, money, and headache.

Why Bundle Your Car Rental with Accommodation? 

Bundling an Orlando car rental cheap with accommodation is a smart move when planning your trip. Here are five compelling benefits why many tourists do this and why you should too:

Bundling car rental with accommodation is cost-effective.

The biggest benefit you get from bundling a car rental with hotel stays is cost-effectiveness. A car rental in Orlando may give you exclusive perks and discounts when you bundle your rental with an accommodation booking. Travelers who are on a budget can make significant savings from rental and accommodation bundles.

 Bundling car rental with accommodation gives you convenience.

When the kids are in tow, you don’t want to hassle yourself with separate car rental and hotel bookings. A car rental in Orlando that’s booked with a hotel stay makes your whole experience simpler and hassle-free. The car rental will be available at the hotel when you arrive, so you don’t have to book a separate ride to the car rental location just to fetch your vehicle.

Bundling car rental with accommodation gives you control over your time.

A car rental in Orlando gives you better control over your time and itinerary. Although taxis and public transportation are available here, commuting takes away precious time that you can otherwise use to enjoy your vacation. When you drive your own rented car, you don’t have to worry about getting off at the next bus stop or catching the train before it leaves the station.

 Bundling car rental with accommodation gives you peace of mind.

Getting a car rental in Orlando with accommodation gives you security and peace of mind. In case you encounter a problem during your trip, it will be easy to contact the service provider because you’ll only have to deal with a single contact person. Getting a resolution is quicker and more efficient compared to booking the two services separately.

Bundling luxury car rental with accommodation makes you more flexible.

You’re meant to enjoy every moment of your trip and getting luxury car hire will help you to make the most out of your time there. With a luxury car rental and hotel booked together, you can be more flexible and enjoy your trip stress-free. So, you can also make last-minute adjustments to your itinerary.

Other Travel Tips when Visiting Orlando

If you have plans of visiting Orlando with your family soon, here are some practical tips to keep in mind that will save you money and make your trip more enjoyable.

1) Know when to best visit famous amusement parks such as Disney World.

You’ll find some world-famous amusement parks like Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World here in Orlando. These parks can be extremely crowded during the Christmas season wherein you have to wait for at least 2 hours for a ride. Beat the crowds by visiting in non-peak seasons like mid-September or mid-January. Book your tickets ahead to get exclusive discounts.

 2) Book an affordable car rental at the Orlando Airport, MCO.

Commuting around Orlando can be difficult. Save yourself the headache by booking affordable car rentals at MCO. Book in advance and get your car as soon as you land at the airport. It’s more cost-efficient compared to commuting your way around the city.

3) Take a day trip to nearby must-see destinations while you’re here.

Orlando is the heart of Florida and it’s surrounded by must-see destinations that you can explore on a day trip. With a rental vehicle, you can travel with ease to whatever nearby destinations you’d like to explore. Take photos and go, you don’t have to spend much to enjoy beautiful Orlando.

Bundling your car rental with hotel stays is cost-effective, convenient, and gives you better control over your time. Additionally, booking your car and accommodation together gives you flexibility and peace of mind. To get the most out of your vacation, know the best time to visit the parks to avoid long queues. Book a car rental at the airport to ensure a happy Orlando experience.

Cancun, Mexico, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and exciting entertainment options. From beachfront bars to high-energy nightclubs, the city has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or an all-night dance party, Cancun has plenty of options. We’ve compiled this essential guide to exploring Cancun’s nightlife to help you get the most out of your visit.

Eating Out in Cancun

When dining in Cancun, there are countless restaurants and bars. From traditional Mexican eateries to upscale restaurants serving international cuisine, there’s something for every taste and budget. Head to one of the city’s many beachfront bars and restaurants for an unforgettable evening with friends. Here you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while viewing the Caribbean Sea.

Exploring the Nightclub Scene

Cancun is home to some of the best clubs and discos in Mexico. Whether searching for a location to boogie or simply wishing to lounge around with friends, you’ll discover numerous sites to fiesta all night. Numerous of the municipality’s nightspots feature live tunes and DJs spinning a range from salsa and reggaeton to hip-hop and electronic music. To guarantee your evening proceeds as effortlessly as possible, inquire with your hotel receptionist about dress regulations and entry fees before venturing out.

Night Outs in Cancun

The nightlife in Cancun is legendary and for good reason. From beachfront bars to high-energy nightclubs, the city has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or an all-night dance party, Cancun has plenty of options. Here are some of the best night-outs in Cancun to help make your visit even more memorable.

Beachfront Bars

No expedition to Cancun is consummate, exclusive of a vacation to one of the metropolis’s innumerable beachfront taverns. Here you can appreciate delectable edibles and potables while apprehending the arresting vistas of the Caribbean Sea. Numerous of these beachfront sites as well boast live music and disc jockeys spinning everything from salsa and reggaeton to hip-hop and electronic music. With its marvelous ambiance and picturesque scenery, it is no surprise that beachfront bars are favored among locals and sightseers.

Shopping in Cancun

If you take a break from the revelry, why not investigate some of Cancun’s shopping centers? The city is home to multiple large emporiums where you’ll find everything from couturier clothing stores to trinket shops retailing traditional Mexican handicrafts. You can also snag great bargains on jewelry and electronics at one of the city’s flea markets. But, no matter what shopping experience you’re seeking, there’s something for everyone in Cancun.

Visiting Mexico Cancer Clinic

No journey to Cancun would be finished without a stop at Mexico Cancer Clinic, one of Latin America’s preeminent oncology treatment centers. MCC offers modern cancer care for grown-ups and youngsters with every kind of cancer. The clinic also provides specialized programs for those receiving chemotherapy or radiation therapy while visiting Mexico. So whether you’re looking for information on cancer treatment options or need a spot to unwind after a long night out in the city, MCC is worthy of consideration during your stay in Cancun.

Safety Tips

As with any famed holidaymaker spot, exercising prudence is essential when visiting Cancun. Ensure you abstain from straying unaccompanied at night and remain aware of your environment. Moreover, persistently keep your identification and other critical documents safe. Finally, if you’re heading out to the nightspots, guarantee you have a dependable form of conveyance so you can get home securely.

Conclusion

Cancun offers a unique nightlife experience that can’t be found anywhere else. From beachfront bars to high-energy nightclubs, the city has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking to grab a bite to eat or spend the night dancing, Cancun has plenty of options. Be sure to also visit Mexico Cancer Clinic during your stay for an unforgettable experience. Cancun will surely make your trip memorable with its great vibes and beautiful scenery.

With its futuristic image, vibrant innovation ecosystem, and uniquely syncretic culture, Singapore attracts millions of tourists and business travellers each year. If you’re planning your first trip to Singapore, you’ll want to throw out all your assumptions about the country. As small as it is, Singapore’s culture is truly unique, with few real comparisons to be made with its neighbours or other highly developed nations. To ensure that your stay is pleasant and memorable for all the right reasons, be sure to follow these useful pieces of advice:

Bring an Unlocked Phone

Ensure you have an unlocked phone so that you can easily purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Having a local number will give you access to affordable data plans and make it convenient to stay connected during your trip. Check out local metasearch engines to find the best SIM-only plan Singapore‘s stores have for international travellers.

Familiarise Yourself with Local Laws and Customs

Respect the locals and take the time to learn about everyday Singaporean customs, such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home, covering your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites, and not staring directly at people. Importantly, be sure to also look up local laws governing public conduct, as Singapore is often called a “fine” city for good reason.

Dress for the Climate

Singapore technically has two seasons: a ‘dry’ season that lasts from March to August and a ‘wet’ season that lasts from September to February. However, despite the names of these seasons, it can rain at any time and can likewise be hot and humid throughout the whole year. Leave your winter boots and leather jacket at home and opt for breathable clothing and practical shoes to stay comfortable while exploring the city. Don’t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen as well.

Purchase an EZ-Link Card

Invest in an EZ-Link card, a reloadable contactless smart card that can be used to pay for rides throughout Singapore’s excellent public transportation system. Interestingly, you can even use the card to pay for items at some retail outlets. If you’re moving around the city by yourself, the EZ-Link card will save you time and money compared to purchasing single-trip tickets.

Explore Singapore’s Hawker Centres 

Don’t forget to visit a few of the country’s world-famous hawker centres. These food centres house multiple food stalls, most of which are serving signature dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. Be sure to keep an eye out for stalls serving Peranakan dishes to partake in less-touristy and truly authentic Straits cuisine.

Embrace the Diverse Food Scene

While Singapore’s culinary soul lies in its homes and hawker centres, it is also a haven for international and fusion cuisine. The country lives for culinary thrills, so be sure to do some research and hit up restaurants, cafes, and hole-in-the-wall eateries that appeal to you.

Stay Hydrated

Between Singapore’s tropical climate and all the walking that you’re bound to do when exploring the country, it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle and make use of the many water coolers available throughout the city to refill it. Fortunately, most tap water in Singapore is also safe to drink, so you can refill your bottles at most taps unless there’s a sign that says otherwise.

Be Mindful of the Chewing Gum Ban

You might have thought that it was a joke but it’s true. The sale of chewing gum is mostly prohibited in Singapore except for therapeutic or dental purposes. While you can bring small amounts into the country for personal use, it’s hardly worth the trouble. As Lee Kwan Yew, the country’s first prime minister and the originator of the ban quipped, “If you can’t think because you can’t chew, try a banana.”

Carry Cash with You

While cashless payment methods are becoming more popular in Singapore, it’s still a good idea to carry some local currency for small vendors and the many establishments that are still strictly cash-only. In particular, many food stalls at hawker centres will only accept cash payments.

Visit Only the Attractions That Interest You

Even though it’s as small as it is, Singapore offers hundreds of unique attractions, catering to all tastes and interests. There’s so much to do that many locals have not fully explored their own country themselves. If you’re only going to be in the country for a week or so, avoid visiting popular places for the sake of visiting them; instead, choose places that are more likely to be more meaningful to you.

Take Advantage of Free Attractions

While Singapore is admittedly quite an expensive country to visit, it also offers several free attractions that are worth exploring. Places like the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Merlion Park, Fort Canning Park, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, and the various ethnic enclaves are an excellent way to experience the city without breaking the bank.

Don’t Forget to Flush

Singapore is known for its strict regulations when it comes to cleanliness, and this extends to public restrooms as well. One notable requirement is the legal obligation to flush any toilet that you use. If you think you can get away with not flushing, think again. Undercover police have been known to check stalls and issue fines to offenders.

Singapore is a melting pot like no other. With its modern attractions, rich mix of cultures, and innovative spirit, the city-state has more than enough to offer. By following the tips above, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your first—and probably not your last—visit to Singapore.

Were you aware that London is considered to be one of the most expensive cities in the world in terms of business-related travel? While this might seem intimidating to some, we need to remember that there are plenty of ways in which you can enjoy an upcoming excursion while enjoying all that this destination has to offer. Let us examine seven practical suggestions.

Take Advantage of Your Travel Time

While the city itself can be rather hectic, there is no reason why your journey should reflect such a frenetic nature. Try to use this time to relax and “disconnect”. You will therefore emerge fresh and motivated upon arrival.

Never Sacrifice Comfort

Why create needless stress during your business trip by settling for substandard accommodations? It is much more logical to leverage the convenience and guest-centred services offered by quality serviced apartments in London. This is the best way to remain focused upon the professional responsibilities that may await.

Pack Light

There is nothing worse than travelling with excess luggage; especially if your business trip is only expected to last a handful of days. So, make it a point to pack only the most essential items. This can also save money in terms of carry-on bags and similar fees that might otherwise occur.

All About Automation

Digital technology provides travellers with a host of options when travelling to any city. For instance, it is now possible to scan tickets, to obtain discounts via QR codes and to automate your check-in process upon arrival. Be sure to leverage these clever amenities, as they can save both time and frustration.

Network in Advance

Any business journey provides plenty of opportunities to network with other like-minded professionals. Use the power of social media and sites such as LinkedIn to inform others when you plan on arriving. Not only can planning ahead of time maximise your efforts to connect with others, but you might even make a few new friends!

A Bit of Familiarity

Bringing along a few items from home is another useful strategy to consider. Even seemingly insignificant objects can provide a sense of comfort when in an unfamiliar situation. This is even more relevant if you happen to become stressed within large metropolitan areas.

Healthy Eating

It can sometimes be tempting to indulge in unhealthy eating habits while on a trip. The issue here is that so-called “convenient” foods will often have an adverse effect upon your metabolism. As this article notes, consuming healthy substances will allow your body to function at optimal levels and ultimately, to remain energetic during high-pressure situations.

Any business trip to London will provide you with plenty of opportunities to expand your personal and professional horizons. While some may experience more stress than others, we can see that there are many ways to enhance the overall experience without stepping outside of your comfort zone. From reserving quality accommodations to networking ahead of time, levelling up your next excursion is now a reality.