Tiago, Author at eDreams Travel Blog eDreams official travel blog. Read about exciting destinations, typical food to try, travel news, and tips & advice for low cost holidays Mon, 23 Oct 2023 12:50:38 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://www.edreams.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2017/05/cropped-edreams-ico-32x32.png Tiago, Author at eDreams Travel Blog 32 32 20 of the Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Spring https://www.edreams.com/blog/most-beautiful-places-visit-spring/ https://www.edreams.com/blog/most-beautiful-places-visit-spring/#comments Mon, 11 Jan 2021 09:15:40 +0000 http://blog.edreams.com/?p=12788 When Spring is finally here, the sun starts to heat up, flowers begin to bloom and the birds sing of joy! It’s one of the the best moments to enjoy Mother Nature and all the beauty she has to offer. Here are the 20 most beautiful places to visit in Spring. Which one takes your … Continued

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When Spring is finally here, the sun starts to heat up, flowers begin to bloom and the birds sing of joy! It’s one of the the best moments to enjoy Mother Nature and all the beauty she has to offer.

Here are the 20 most beautiful places to visit in Spring. Which one takes your fancy?


1. Goldfield mountains, Arizona (USA)

goldfield-eua

Feel at one with nature by hiking the towering Goldfield mountains. Hiking Goldfield is a feat in itself. The top of the mountains are usually reserved for very experienced hikers. But, there are plenty of fun hikes to do too!


2. Mount Fuji, Honshu Island (Japan)

Monte Fuji – Japão - Primavera

There’s nothing quite like seeing Japan covered in a blanket of lush pink petals during cherry blossom season.


3. Keukenhof Gardens, Amsterdam (Netherlands)

jardim Keukenhof - amesterdão - primavera

Keukenhof, known as the Garden of Europe, is the largest flower garden in the world. Step into a colourful dream and walk amongst the 80 acres of kept grass and 7 million flowers! Springtime is the best time to visit when the flowers are in full bloom. Other visitors think so too – we recommend going early in the morning to enjoy the gardens without crowds of tourists.


4. Corbridge, Northumberland (England)

Corbridge - inglaterra - primavera

As you step onto the cobbled streets of Corbridge, you’ll notice this sleepy village begins to come alive during the spring. The air is warmer, the pub gardens are slowly filling up and the tea rooms are bustling with excitement.


5. Jerte Valley, Extremadura (Spain)

Vale de Jerte - Espanha - Primavera

Everything turns white in Jerte Valley in the Spring, thanks to the two million blossoming cherry trees! Like a blanket of soft snow, without any snow in sight. Time your visit carefully as this beautiful sight only happens for about 10 days every year.


6. Hangzhou, Zhejiang (China)

hangzhou - china - primavera

Spring time in Hangzou is like stepping into a watercolour painting. Walk through the willow-lined banks and mist-covered hills. You’ll be intoxicated by the sheer beauty that surrounds you.


7. Central Park, New-York (USA)

central - park - nova iorque - EUA

Walk through New York’s iconic Central Park during your Spring time visit to the Big Apple. The weather is cool but sunny, flowers bloom from the unlikeliest of places, squirrels scamper up, begging for a bite of that warm pretzel. Life is good!


8. Malmö, Scania (Sweden)

malmo suécia - primavera

Spring time in Sweden’s coastal town of Malmö is a cyclists paradise. The flat terrain and fields of flowers that line the 500 kilometres of bike lanes are best enjoyed under the Spring sun.


9. Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany)

bonn - alemanha - primavera

Snap a photo at the beautiful blossom tree-lined streets of Bonn in Germany. Usually in bloom around the beginning of April, but they don’t hang around for long!


10. Yunnan (China)

Yunnan - china - Primavera

Yunnan is home to one of China’s best hikes, the Tiger Leaping Gorge. It is one of the deepest canyons in the world, with a depth of 3,790 meters. The best time to visit is during Spring when the weather is warming up and the wet season is yet to arrive.


11. Seoul (South Korea)

Seoul - coreia - primavera

If you’ve always dreamt of seeing the beauty of cherry blossom season, Seoul during April-May is what you’re looking for!


12. Blue Grotto, Zurrieq (Malta)

Gruta Azul - Malta - Primavera


13. Bodrum (Turkey)

bodrum - turquia - primavera

Often considered one of the top spots to visit during Summer, we think Bordum truly showcases it’s beauty in Spring.  The temperature is a pleasant 25 degrees celsius in the day, the hoardes of tourists haven’t appeared yet, and the cobbled streets are sprinkled with colourful petals.


14. Funchal, Madeira (Portugal)

Funchal - Portugal - Primavera

Take some time to wonder through the Botanical Gardens of Madeira, which boasts over 3,000 types of plants. See if you can spot the blooms that are unique to the island, such as the shocking pink Madeira geraniums or the bushy blue blossom trees.


15. Hallerbos, Halle (Belgium)

Hallerbos – Bélgica - Primavera

Bluebell season is like no other, a violet carpet spreads as far as the eye can see. When the sun is low and the rays stream through the trees, you’ll truly feel like you’ve entered a magical realm.


16. Skagit Valley, Washington (USA)

vale Skagit - EUA

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival that runs throughout April is a sight to see!


17. Les Avants, Vaud (Switzerland)

Les Avants – Lago Léman - Primavera

Breathe the pure air of the Alps and it’s surroundings in Les Avants. Nestled next to Lake Geneva, the snow capped mountains in the background are a reminder of winter whilst the colourful blooms at your feet will have you transported into a new season!


18. Namaqualand (South Africa)

Namaqualand - áfrica do sul

The Namaqualand Flower Route is about 5 hours from Cape Town. The flowers are completely wild and their germination depends hugely on the weather of the previous seasons. Even though this means the flowering is highly volatile, it also means that each year brings something new and different to see!


19. Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Christchurch (New Zealand)

jardim botanico Christchurch - Primavera

The Botanical Gardens in Christchurch are open all year round, but are truly spectacular to visit in Spring. Make sure to add it to your New Zealand itinerary!


20. Fez (Morocco)

fez - marrocos - primavera

Spring weather in Fez is warm and dry. Head here in May for the Gnaoua Music festival, combining modern music with historical traditions.


How about you, where are you going this Spring? Let us know and leave us a comment below!

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The Perfect Winter Sun Destinations https://www.edreams.com/blog/the-perfect-winter-sun-destinations/ Tue, 10 Nov 2020 14:54:00 +0000 http://blog.edreams.com/?p=10369 The cold winter months make us dream of warmer and more exotic destinations. Escape the icy weather and travel to these amazing winter sun destinations that will make you forget about your daily worries.  We recommend five heavenly destinations where you can enjoy a week of summer in the middle of winter! Fuerteventura Miles and … Continued

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The cold winter months make us dream of warmer and more exotic destinations. Escape the icy weather and travel to these amazing winter sun destinations that will make you forget about your daily worries.  We recommend five heavenly destinations where you can enjoy a week of summer in the middle of winter!

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura

Miles and miles of white sand beaches and turquoise waters – Fuerteventura is one of Spain’s most popular destinations and the ideal place to travel to if you wish to escape winter for a few days. We recommend you visit the Natural Park of Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste, La Concha  and the Lobos Island.

Average temperature in Fuerteventura during winter: 22º

Zanzibar

Zanzibar

It’s not by chance that “Hakuna Matata”, meaning “no worries” in Swahili, is one of the most famous local songs. Zanzibar is a place where you can relax in the sun, swim and enjoy long walks on the beach. Be sure to leave your troubles at home!

Average temperature in Zanzibar during winter: 30º

The Seychelles Islands

Seychelles

A tropical paradise like no other – Seychelles, an archipelago located in the Indian Ocean just northwest of Madagascar, is made up of 155 tiny granite and coral islands. Truly a place of beauty, serenity, and harmony…

Average temperature in the Seychelles during winter: 26º

Tahiti

Tahiti

Tahiti invites you to discover its mountains, rainforests, lagoons, beaches and coral reefs. And if you love snorkeling or diving, the French Polynesia is renown for having some of the most spectacular and diverse marine life.

Average temperature in Tahiti during the winter: 29º

Thailand

Thailand

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and the best starting point if you wish to take some time off to discover this beautiful country. There’s nothing quite like exploring the Bay of Phang Nga aboard a traditional Thai Junk!

Average temperature in Thailand during the winter: 25º

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A Comprehensive Guide on Where to Travel in February https://www.edreams.com/blog/travel-in-february/ Mon, 02 Nov 2020 09:40:00 +0000 http://www.edreams.com/blog/?p=16759 With its short days, low temperatures, and heavy rains we wouldn’t blame you for being happy that February is the shortest month on the calendar. Luckily there’s travel. If you’re looking to get out read on. There’s a suitcase full of destinations out there with winter high seasons, world-renown festivals, and becoming beach escapes for travellers of all ages and budgets. … Continued

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With its short days, low temperatures, and heavy rains we wouldn’t blame you for being happy that February is the shortest month on the calendar.

Luckily there’s travel.

If you’re looking to get out read on. There’s a suitcase full of destinations out there with winter high seasons, world-renown festivals, and becoming beach escapes for travellers of all ages and budgets.

Here’s a list of where to travel in February.

Cape Verde

The first European settlement in the tropics is actually an archipelago of 10 islands in the Atlantic Ocean.

With an average February temperature of 25°C you’ll find a ton of things to do on any of its pristine beaches. Nature lovers will love hiking through the steep volcanic rock that plunges into the sea on Santo Antão’s coastal trail.

fishermen's boats on cape verde
@hannahkpowell via Instagram

Vietnam

To the Vietnamese the month of February is a time of relaxation and celebration and there’s no better time to visit the Southeast Asian country famous for Tet: the Vietnamese New Year.

The big meals and festive decorations can be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, though both would agree the star of the show is the floating lantern festival in Hoi An.

mountains plunge into the sea in vietnam
@gspbm via Instagram

Punta Cana

February is dry season at this immensely popular holiday resort on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic. Both couples and families will find this a great place for value with its long list of all-inclusive resorts.

February 27th is the National Independence Day and you will find all sorts of parties, patriotic events, and even a speech by the president.

a couple holding hands on a beach at punta cana dominican republic
@alexandre_alemao via Instagram

Cape Town

Skip right ahead to summer with a trip down to one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Cape Town is in full swing at this time of the year, making it the perfect holiday destination for February.

Whether you’re catching the cable car up Table Mountain, diving with sharks, or attending the Constantia Wine Festival you’ll barely spend a second uncaressed by the gentle stroke of nature.

a hiker overlooks cape town from table mountain
@renateeriksen via Instagram

Goa

This coastal region in western India is actually the country’s smallest state. February is a great time to travel to Goas as it is the tail end of high season so the crowds begin to thin, though the beach shacks and parties continue to thrive well into March. Don’t miss the Goa Carnival: a local Christian tradition that was brought to the area in 1510 by the Portuguese.

a beach shack at sunset in goa india
@goa.india via Instagram

The Philippines

The country of more than 7,000 islands naturally offers enough beach escapes to last the average tourist a lifetime. It’s one of the warmes places to go in February, with average temperatures pushing 30°C. You can’t go wrong hitting the glorious spas of Boracay or discovering the untouched semi-silent nature at Palawan.

an aerial view of a seaside cliff in the philippines
@divergenttravelers via Instagram

New Orleans

This unique city is almost more Europe than North America with its multilingual heritage and French and Spanish creole architecture. The birthplace of jazz is a great place for live music fans. The world famous Mardi Gras parades that roll out in February are can’t miss and likely the biggest spectacle outside of Rio’s Carnival or Munich’s Oktoberfest.

a dusk shot of bourbon street in new orleans
@pavle.aleksic via Instagram

OK! Let’s dust off the shorts and get packing.

Take me to the cheap flights!

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Emirates Baggage Allowance: Carry on and Checked Luggage https://www.edreams.com/blog/emirates-baggage-allowance/ Wed, 02 Sep 2020 11:06:00 +0000 http://www.edreams.com/blog/?p=16642 If you’re flying with Emirates to an exciting destination, keep reading below for all the information about Emirates baggage allowance. Emirates is the largest airline in the Middle East and is able to operate more than 1,500 flights per week to 155 cities. In 2017, it was crowned as “Best Airline in the World” by … Continued

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If you’re flying with Emirates to an exciting destination, keep reading below for all the information about Emirates baggage allowance.

Emirates is the largest airline in the Middle East and is able to operate more than 1,500 flights per week to 155 cities. In 2017, it was crowned as “Best Airline in the World” by TripAdvisor in the Travellers’ Choice Awards.

Emirates baggage allowance

Hand Luggage Allowance

In Economy class, every Emirates passenger is entitled to carry a cabin bag that doesn’t exceed 7kg, at no extra cost. The maximum dimensions of the Emirates hand luggage allowance is 55cm x 38cm x 20cm.

If you’re travelling in First Class or Business Class, you can carry two pieces of carry-on luggage. Including one piece of luggage that doesn’t exceed 45cm x 35cm x 20cm plus a smaller handbag. Both pieces must not weigh more than 7 kg.

Checked Luggage Allowance

Emirates checked baggage allowance depends on your route and class of travel:

Economy Class: 15 kg
Business Class: 40 kg
First Class: 50 kg

Particularly, each item should not exceed 32 kg and the total dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag must not exceed 300 cm.

As we mentioned previously there are special allowances depending on the route:

  • If you’re travelling to and from the Americas or flying from Africa: 1 bag of 23 kg in Economy Class, and 2 bags of 32 kg each in Business or First Class.
  • If you’re travelling within the Americas and between the US and Europe: 1 bag of 23 kg in Economy Class, and 2 bags of 32 kg each in Business or First Class.

Special Baggage Allowance

Sports equipment can be transported as checked-in baggage and will count towards your standard allowance if it doesn’t exceed 150cm. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay an additional fee.

Passengers travelling with an infant under two years of age can carry an additional checked-in baggage plus a stroller or carry-cot for free.

find out more - Emirates

Emirates new coronavirus safety precautions for 2020

Emirates have set out new safety measures to keep their customers safe while travelling throughout the coronavirus pandemic. They include:

  • A face mask must be worn at all times, including inside the airport and for the duration of the flight.
  • Social distancing rules will apply when boarding the plane, and at the airport with protective antimicrobial screens.
  • If you’re flying into Dubai, Emirates will provide you with a complimentary travel hygiene kit containing gloves, a face mask, antibacterial wipes and a hand sanitiser.
  • Emirates will manage the boarding of the aircraft in smaller groups.
  • There will be enhanced cleaning and disinfecting of the aircraft, and the staff wear full PPE.
  • Cabin air is constantly cleaned with advanced HEPA air filters.

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Stay flexible with eDreams free cancellation https://www.edreams.com/blog/free-cancellation/ https://www.edreams.com/blog/free-cancellation/#comments Wed, 04 Mar 2020 10:56:03 +0000 http://www.edreams.com/blog/?p=16704 Searching for flights for your next trip, but need some extra hours to think about it? Still waiting to align all the plans with your travel partner, but want to lock in the deal you’ve found? Now you can book your flight and cancel it later for free within a time frame! eDreams free cancellation policy … Continued

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Searching for flights for your next trip, but need some extra hours to think about it? Still waiting to align all the plans with your travel partner, but want to lock in the deal you’ve found?

Now you can book your flight and cancel it later for free within a time frame! eDreams free cancellation policy makes your life easier. Check it out in this article.

How does free cancellation policy work?

Free cancellation eDreams

After performing a search for your preferred flight, you’ll see the free cancellation service and the specific timeframe in the results page as in the screenshot above.

In order to cancel the booking within the allowed timeframe and request the full refund, including service fees, you’ll need to call our Customer Service center.

This service is not available for flights with low-cost airlines.

Free cancellation eDreams

What is the difference between free cancellation and a flexible ticket?

Free cancellation gives you a window in which to cancel your booking free of charge. Flexible ticket means you can change the date, destination and/or passenger of your booking, depending on the airline. No change fees are incurred for rebooking (though you may be required to pay fare difference).

If you have any questions about the free cancellation, let us know in the comments, or enter here to manage your booking.

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Top 5 Valentine’s Day Destinations for Foodies https://www.edreams.com/blog/scrumptious-delicacies-for-valentines-day/ https://www.edreams.com/blog/scrumptious-delicacies-for-valentines-day/#respond Tue, 14 Jan 2020 09:00:33 +0000 http://blog.edreams.com/?p=10395 Love and food – two truly compatible concepts some may say are even a perfect match! But, where should you go on Valentine’s Day? What should you plan for Valentine’s Day? Read on for our delicious tips. Whether it’s love that is put into preparing a dish or the pleasure of indulging in the delicacies … Continued

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Love and food – two truly compatible concepts some may say are even a perfect match! But, where should you go on Valentine’s Day? What should you plan for Valentine’s Day? Read on for our delicious tips.

Whether it’s love that is put into preparing a dish or the pleasure of indulging in the delicacies prepared, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to savour delicious dishes with your significant other.

For this reason, we suggest these appetizing Valentine’s Day destinations where the perfect couple can enjoy a truly incredible meal!

Taste red wine in Serbia

red wine in serbia

If the colour of love is red, the fitting beverage for the day of love is red wine. Though champagne is often considered the most festive drink, red wine is an aphrodisiac.

Planning a trip to the region that produces your favourite wine can be a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Subotica, a small town located in Serbia, is currently one of the top destinations preferred by sommeliers. If you love remote places, wine sampling and relaxing at the spa, then a trip to Subotica is just what the doctor ordered!


Enjoy a spicy romantic getaway in Calabria

Chilli in calabria

Add some spice to your Valentine’s Day with chili which is a particularly popular ingredient in Calabria. Though originally used by peasants to enhance simple dishes, today it plays a key role in local cuisine. Whether savoury or sweet, even the most sophisticated foods are prepared with a touch of chilli.

While in Calabria on your romantic getaway, visit the beautiful city of Diamante and sample some nduja, a specialty prepared ​​with fish eggs, chili and olive oil. This dish, often referred to as the “caviar of the poor”, is perfect for highly spirited couples.


Feast on chocolate in Bruges

chocolate in bruges

Bruges is the ideal destination for chocolate lovers. This charming town, whose medieval center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a heart of cocoa that will seduce anyone with a sweet tooth.

Its small and charming narrow streets are filled with tempting chocolate shops, each more original than the next. If you wish to stay warm on your lovers escape, we recommend you try the “tequila” praline.


Tuck into oysters on the Côte d’Azur

oysters on french riviera

If a romantic Valentine’s Day is what you crave, look no further than enjoying fresh oysters by the seaside of the Côte d’Azur.

Oysters are not only an aphrodisiac seafood, but  food connoisseurs will tell you that there is no better place in Europe to try fresh oysters or clams than the French Riviera. Luckily, the seasn ends in Febraury, making it the ideal Valentine’s Day destination for couples.

When you go, visit Nice in the Côte d’Azur – an ideal location to stop in at one of the few traditional kiosks that sell oysters to take-away. Here, couples can have a picnic by the sea. Is there anything more romantic?


Get loved up with a hint of ginger in the UK

gingerbread in edinburgh

A sweet Valentine’s Day plan can be as simple as tasting a delicious cookie with your loved one. Indulge in the warmth of ginger spice with a gingerbread cookie from one of the delicious pastry shops in Edinburgh! These Anglo-Saxon specialties  packed with aromas and spices, are bound to ignite passion in any couple.

Baking gingerbread has been a long-standing tradition in the Northeast of the UK dating back to the 17th century – this is what makes it a great place to visit if you want to sample pastries with ginger. If you’re not intimidated by clouds and rain, we recommend the city of Durham, a place renowned for its Norman cathedral and magnificent castle, both of which are listed World Heritage sites.


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31 Fun Facts About Oktoberfest That You Didn’t Know https://www.edreams.com/blog/fun-facts-oktoberfest/ https://www.edreams.com/blog/fun-facts-oktoberfest/#comments Thu, 20 Jun 2019 07:33:47 +0000 http://blog.edreams.com/?p=13470 Important update for Oktoberfest 2020: Unfortunately, the Munich Oktoberfest 2020 has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic. It’s never too soon to talk about beer festivals, and there is none greater than the Munich, Germany’s Oktoberfest! Check out Dieter, our eDreams travel guide, in Munich and enjoy the Oktoberfest! Oktoberfest 2019 is a lot … Continued

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Important update for Oktoberfest 2020: Unfortunately, the Munich Oktoberfest 2020 has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

It’s never too soon to talk about beer festivals, and there is none greater than the Munich, Germany’s Oktoberfest!

Check out Dieter, our eDreams travel guide, in Munich and enjoy the Oktoberfest!

Oktoberfest 2019 is a lot sooner than you think, with the anticipated festival beginning on September 21st (and lasting 16 days) through to October 6th.

Oktoberfest - Munich
Photo by @exithamster via Instagram

We think now is a pretty solid time to begin planning your trip to Germany for this event, so let’s brush up on some interesting facts and traditions surrounding the world’s most famous beer festival.

Ready? Set… Beer!


1. Oktoberfest is called October but starts on September.

The name “Oktober” is misleading because most of the festival happens in September…

Oktoberfest vintage poster

Fun fact: The event started in 1810 and at that time it took place during one week of October. Along the years, it was extended and the starting date was changed to September because the weather is warmer and more pleasing. Therefore, it’s easier to attract more visitors to stay even longer and enjoy the beer (and festival) throughout the night.

2. Munich beer only.

Oktoberfest is, above all, a celebration of Bavarian traditions, so the only beer you’ll find during the festival is brewed within the city limits of Munich. Only beers that fit this criteria are considered Oktoberfest Beers.

Spatenbrau Beer at Oktoberfest

Fun fact: It’s considered one of the best beers in the world and according to the Bavarian Purity Requirements there are only 3 ingredients used in the brewing process: water, barley and hops.

3. It is a 204-year-old tradition that wasn’t originally a beer festival.

The first Oktoberfest was held to honor the marriage of Prince Ludwig and Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen, in 1810. Now that’s what we call a wedding party!

Fun fact: The wedding party ended with a horse party.

4. They’ve cancelled it 24 times.

You can’t stop beer pouring! In 200 years, Oktoberfest has only been cancelled 24 times. The causes were mostly due to the war and cholera epidemics.

5. Vomit-proof sneakers for Oktoberfest.

With so much beer being consumed it’s obvious that some people might feel sick and end up puking… And that’s why Adidas recently released a limited edition of vomit-proof sneakers inspired by the Oktoberfest.

Adidas Oktoberfest sneakers
Photo via ADIDAS

They’re priced at 199,95€ with “Prost” stitched on the side and surprisingly, they’re already sold out.

6. Locals call it “Wiesn”.

It’s named after the Theresienwiese, which is the name of the land where it takes place, and it’s also named after Therese, the Princess that was married there. It’s pronounced as “Vizen”.

Oktoberfest celebration
Photo by @exithamster
via Instagram

Fun fact: The “Oide Wiesn” is a part of the festival that features more traditional elements such as music, dancing and costumes, in contrast with other parts of the festival that are dedicated to beer and partying.

7. Nobody raises their mug until the Mayor says so.

Since 1950, the festival has only started after the official gun salute and the mayor shouting O’ zapft is! (“It’s tapped!”) and offering the first mug to the Minister-President of the State of Bavaria. Only after that, the festival can start.

Friends in Oktoberfest - Munich

Tip: On the 21st of September of 2019 at noon, the Mayor will tap the first keg of beer and the festival will (officially) start.



8. The hairier the hat, the wealthier the wearer.

During Oktoberfest, traditional visitors wear Bavarian hats (Tirolerhüte). The more tufts of goat hair on your hat, the wealthier you are considered to be.

bavarian hat at oktoberfest

Except nowadays the tufts are synthetic and everybody can look as wealth or as poorly as they like.

9. Beer prices start at 10.70€ / £9.50 / $12.

It’s the price of one liter of beer… Not for those looking for a low budget festival.

Tip: Beer can be bought in the tents from 10:00AM to 10:30PM on weekdays, and from 9:00AM to 10:30PM during the weekend.

10. People drank 7.5 million liters of beer in 2018!

Oktoberfest table

Fun fact: In 1910, on its 100th birthday, 120,000 liters of beer were poured – that’s about 1,500 bathtubs worth of beer!

11. The beer is specially brewed for Oktoberfest and it’s extra strong.

One mug of beer here is equivalent to 8 shots of Schnapps.

Oktoberfest beer

They’re specially brewed for the festival and they have at least 6% alcohol.

12. As a result, it could be dangerous for some.

Around 600-800 people suffer from alcohol poisoning each year.

13. There’s an on-site Red Cross tent.

And it’s usually full! In 2018, at least 5,800 people needed medical attention.

14. There are 14 large beer hall tents.

The most famous one is Schottenhamel because it’s where the mayor taps the first keg and the biggest one is Hofbräu-Festhalle which seats almost 11,000 people.

Oktoberfest hall tent

Fun fact: The “Hacker-Festhalle” tent will have a rock band playing everyday at 5:30PM to get the party started.



15. There’s a wine tent.

Besides 15 different types of wine, there’s also champagne and sparkling wine in the Weinzelt – wine tent.

oktoberfest wine
Photo by @tracht_und_zeitlos via Instagram

16. And food is everywhere.

There are around 140 restaurants and food stands.

food at oktoberfest

Tip: Be sure to read our A to Z guide to Oktoberfest food.

17. Oktoberfest closes between 11:30PM and midnight.

Most locals head to the after-parties.

Tip: The Oktoberfest 2019 will end on the 6th of October at 11:30PM.

18. But it opens between 9:00am and 10:00am.

It’s actually family-friendly. Kind of like a state fair with more than 80 rides.

Oktoberfest rides

19. Despite the international appeal, it’s still a surprisingly local affair.

Only 19% of the visitors aren’t from Germany.



20. Oktoberfest is always packed and it helps the economy.

More than 6 million attend Oktoberfest annually and it employs around 13,000 people. It helps that it’s free to enter!

21. Einstein worked there.

Albert Einstein, once worked as an electrician and helped to set up one of the beer tents in 1896.

22. Oktoberfest has its very own, pop-up post office.

They send around 130,000 postcards and gifts every year.



23. Glass Steins were late to the party.

beer glass mug at oktoberfest

It wasn’t until 1892 that beer was served in glass mugs. They were traditionally made of stone, then they created them with metal, but now they’re mostly made of glass.

24. Beer mugs are popular souvenirs.

Guests love to take them home. In 2010, 130,000 beer mugs were confiscated and taken back to their tent owners.

oktober fest 2017 official mug
Photo via oktoberfest.de

Tip: The official mug is available for purchase Oktoberfest online shop and costs between 14€ and 11€, depending if you want the 1 liter or 0,5 liter mug.

25. Host at Oktoberfest.

Whoever wants to open a food stall or tent has to wait up to 20 years.

26. “Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit!”

This can be heard all the time at the Oktoberfest. But it’s not Bavarian, it was just invented by a musician (Bernhard Dittrich of Chemnitz).

27. Church and Oktoberfest.

Sounds out of place? Well, they hold a mass every first Thursday of the Oktoberfest in the Hippodrome tent.

28. It’s a surprisingly kid-friendly zone.

ferries wheel roller coaster at Oktoberfest

The idea of bringing children to a massive beer festival might seem pretty far out, but the truth is that there are hundreds of children that attend the festival every year.

There are ferries wheel, roller coasters, games and traditional Bavarian parades.

29. “Honey, I might’ve lost the kids”.

Seems like losing your offspring is a rather common side effect of beer drinking. Fear not, however, there is a lost and found children office on the premises.



30. Lost & Found collects around 5,000 items each year.

Lost and found possessions include wheelchairs, baby carriages, passports, keys, crutches and dogs (!). And they find a pair of teeth almost every year. Wedding rings also seem to get surprisingly loose during Oktoberfest.

31. Paris Hilton is permanently banned from Oktoberfest.

She went to the event dressed in a golden and shiny Bavarian Drindl to promote a brand of canned wine. Locals got the organizers to ban her because they were offended by how she was dressed.

Paris Hilton in Oktoberfest - Munich
Photo by Diether Endlicher via AP



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Resolved to travel more in 2019? We can help you with that! https://www.edreams.com/blog/travel-more/ Mon, 14 Jan 2019 11:19:50 +0000 https://www.edreams.com/blog/?p=20156 Do more of what makes you happy! Did you decide to travel more in 2019? If so we can help you with that so you can get an early start on your New Year’s Resolution! Read the tips below and discover how to travel more this year! 1. Save on your next holiday with our … Continued

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Do more of what makes you happy!

Did you decide to travel more in 2019? If so we can help you with that so you can get an early start on your New Year’s Resolution!

Read the tips below and discover how to travel more this year!


1. Save on your next holiday with our discounts

Use our discounts on flights, flight + hotel, car hire & more and you can save on your next holiday!

With the promo code “JANSALE2” you will:

  • ✈Save up to £15 on your next flight booking.
  • ✈+ ? Save up to £80 on your next flight and hotel booking.
  • ? Up to 60% off your car hire.
  • ? Save 40% (or more) on selected hotels.



2. Spend less (to travel more)

[embedyt]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnAnyiLI65Q[/embedyt]

Travelling is not always equal to luxury!

There are many (small) expenses that can be avoided in order to save money to travel more, such as that gym membership you’re paying or that new phone you want…

Watch the video “Tips to spend less and travel more” and discover some ways to make your travel dream come true in 2019!


3. Create a travel bucket list

seoul south korea

The world is full of beautiful places but there are so many amazing destinations to visit that sometimes it’s a bit hard to decide where to go…

To help you decide where to start travelling this year take a look at the following suggestions:


4. Must travel destinations

Portugal

tram-28-in-lisbon-portugalDid you know that Portugal was voted as the “World’s Leading Destination” for the second year in a row? There are quite a few reasons to visit Lisbon or Porto!


Boracay

boracay scene view

The popular island on the in the Philippines is back (after being shutdown for 6 months for an environmental clean up) and Boracay looks better than ever!


Places in Europe Ideal For Solo Travel

barcelona-travel-solo-europe

If you want to start travelling alone in 2019 take a look at these 9 destinations in Europe that are perfect for solo travellers, including Barcelona, Berlin and Amsterdam among others!


 

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The best travel hacks for travellers https://www.edreams.com/blog/best-travel-hacks/ https://www.edreams.com/blog/best-travel-hacks/#respond Tue, 16 Oct 2018 15:01:52 +0000 http://www.edreams.com/blog/?p=16666 At times traveling can be stressful… The unexpected change of plans, adapting to a reality completely different from yours, lacking the simple things that you’re used to… In the end, there are a lot of details to pay attention to. Any advice that can make the life of a traveler a little easier and fun … Continued

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At times traveling can be stressful…

The unexpected change of plans, adapting to a reality completely different from yours, lacking the simple things that you’re used to… In the end, there are a lot of details to pay attention to.

Any advice that can make the life of a traveler a little easier and fun is of great help, such as:

  • how to avoid tangled earphone cables in your baggage.
  • finding a good place to hide money.
  • or even how to charge the smartphone faster than usual…

If you’re interested in knowing all these travel tips (and more) take a look at our Travel Hacks video below, read this article and take notes!

eDreams tips to travel safely and happily

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNgZTbQ-aew[/embedyt]

1. Store your earphones inside a case for glasses.

You’ll avoid the cables getting tangled!

earphones inside a glasses case

2. Do you want to listen to some music? Try to put your smartphone in a mug…

And you’ll see (or listen) that the volume will increase!

smartphone inside mug

3. The multipurpose of a lip balm.

It’s a convenient and unexpected place to hide money!

money inside lip balm

4. Store shampoo inside the contact lens case.

The size of the contact lens case is perfect to store shampoo, conditioner, makeup, and other liquids. You can easily travel with the contact lens case and you’ll avoid exceeding the maximum amount allowed for liquids in hand luggage – 100ml.

shampoo inside the contact lens case

5. Don’t forget cellophane!

Use cellophane (plastic wrap) to seal the liquid containers before closing them with the cap. In case they open you’ll avoid the dripping.

plastic wrap to seal the liquid containers

6. Airplane Mode isn’t only during the flight…

If you select the “Airplane Mode” in your smartphone while it’s charging, you’ll save battery and it will charge must faster.

airplane mode to save battery and charge your smartphone faster

Do you have any travel hacks to share with us? Have you tried one of these? Tell us in the comments below!

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6 Beaches with Unusual Animals https://www.edreams.com/blog/beaches-unusual-animals/ https://www.edreams.com/blog/beaches-unusual-animals/#comments Fri, 28 Sep 2018 06:50:20 +0000 http://www.edreams.com/blog/?p=17362 There are plenty of beaches in the world that are attractive for exactly the same reasons: crystal clear waters, white sands, and infinite beauty. However, there are also beaches whose appeal is not the place itself, but the unusual animals that can be found in them. Can you imagine having a swim with pigs, flamingos or … Continued

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There are plenty of beaches in the world that are attractive for exactly the same reasons: crystal clear waters, white sands, and infinite beauty. However, there are also beaches whose appeal is not the place itself, but the unusual animals that can be found in them.

Can you imagine having a swim with pigs, flamingos or even penguins?

Those are some of the unusual experiences that can be done on the following beaches. Let’s see them…


Pig Beach: Bahamas
Pig Beach - Bahamas

Nobody knows exactly how the pigs got to this remote island, but we can easily understand why they decided to stay: good temperature, clear water and good company…. Who can blame them?

The Pig Island is located in Exuma, the Bahamas archipelago. There are about 20 wild pigs and piglets that love the beach and to swim. They also like to be caressed, fed, and entertained by the curious tourists!

Pig Beach in Bahamas


Flamingo Beach: Aruba

Flamingo beach in Aruba

About 300 meters from the coast of the Aruba Island, we can visit an island inhabited by beautiful flamingos. The small Renaissance Island in Aruba is a big tourist attraction in the area because it offers the chance to sunbathe and spend a day at the beach in the company of these peculiar birds.

Did you know that these flamingos feel relaxed and comfortable next to humans and even ask for food?! It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors and clients of the hotels in this island.

Flamingo Beach - Aruba
Foto de Bevis ChinBevis vía Flickr

Akumal Beach: Mexico

Turtle in Akumal beach - Mexico

The coast of Mexico is the chosen spot by many sea turtles as the perfect place to lay their eggs. Turtles are able to travel thousands of miles to make their nest year after year literally in the same place. Fortunately, the bay of Akumal on the Riviera Maya of Mexico is one of those places..

At this beach you can swim with these prehistoric creatures, but there’s a simple rule: you must keep a minimum distance of 3 meters. Don’t forget that you’re in their home and they shouldn’t get stressed.

If you’re lucky… Maybe you’ll see some of the little turtle champions in their adventure back to the ocean!
Little turtle in Akumal beach - Mexico


Boulders Beach: South Africa

Penguin in Boulders Beach - South Africa

Penguins are funny animals… And, sometimes their movements and behaviors make us feel more easily connected to these little animals, right?

At the Boulders Beach, 42 km away from Cape Town in South Africa, there is a colony of African penguins that live in freedom and truly enjoy the water and rocks of this place. If you visit this beach, you’ll most likely be able to watch these animals closely.

Penguins in Boulders Beach - South Africa


Assateague Island: USA

Ponies in Assateague Island

In the national park of the Assateague Island in Maryland, there are 300 wild horses that live peacefully. Here the ponies live like kings: eating whenever they want and walking with the family.

As in the case of pigs in the Bahamas, the reason for the arrival of these animals on the island is unknown, it’s said that it may be due to the wreck of a ship that transported them or that they were property of the settlers who conquered the island.

Whatever happened, the ponies now live here happily and completely adapted to the habitat.

Ponies in Assateague Island - Maryland
Foto de judithsweet vía wikipedia

Monkey Beach: Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

Monkey Beach in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

This is an attractive beach by itself, and it sums up points due to its unusual animals: monkeys.

On this beach, lives a colony of monkeys that will entertain you with their games and yes, watch out for the food and the bright objects, they have very long arms and are very fast!

Monkey Beach is located among the cliffs of the Phi Phi Island in Thailand, where you can meet the friendly monkeys or if you’re afraid, just watch them from the boat and not go into the beach. Start planning your trip now! 

Monkey in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand


Do you know other beaches similar to these ones with unusual animals? Let us know in the comments below!

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