What does a hiker want? Exquisite landscapes, jaw-dropping heights and an incomparable solace offered by serenity of nature. If you are an avid hiker, you would love to hear that all this and much more is available in Europe! Numerous hikers and trekkers book flights to various European destinations to take a walk through the green landscapes of Switzerland, France, Italy, Scotland and Sweden. Let’s take a look at few most popular hiking sites in Europe.

Tour Du Mont Blanc

Mont Blanc is European Union’s highest mountain which always ranks among the top in the lists of hikers. Breathtaking tranquil valleys are extended to three countries namely France, Switzerland and Italy. No matter whether you are starting your tour from France or from Italy, this 105-mile trail is sure to captivate your senses with its lush valleys flanked by snow capped mountains. Finding an accommodation here would not be an issue as the area boasts a wide range of lavish resorts and dorm-style hostels to cater to the needs of every taste and budget.

Bernese Overland

Also known as Bernese Highlands, this is another one of the most popular regions among hikers. Winding paths here are considered the most unique, beautiful and breathtaking in Europe. Hikers buying tickets aboard flights to Switzerland especially to visit Bernese Highlands get an opportunity to spend memorable moments by wildflower meadows, alpine villages, spectacular waterfalls and snow-covered mountains. Few popular walks in this region are Meiringen, Grindelwald, Mürren Lauterbrunnen and Lac de Tseuzier.

The Dolomites Alta Via 1

Whether you are nature lover or a thrill seeker, this Italian site must be there on your list of excursions. Alta Via 1 highlights the magnificence of Dolomites mountain range. The sky-kissing cliffs are not just about natural grandeur but they also explain the turbulent times of World War I. It has been listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site. Under accommodation option choices, the area boasts huts or rifugios offering an impressive staying option to backpackers.  Home-cooked meal is the biggest surprise for hikers who stay in these huts!!

Today’s progressive generation always depend on the high-end technologies to carry out their daily routines. However, without the Internet, even high-tech gadgets like smart phones, tablets and laptops are only “one-legged”! And this situation often turns trickier while on international trips. Roaming fees and Wi-Fi connectivity become major issues when one board flights to remote destinations. But not to worry, there are ways to make the most of these gadgets without spending a lot of money on roaming charges. Here are few tips for globetrotters who are planning international holidays and booking tickets to travel with their latest gizmos!

Get a Local SIM Card

The biggest tech issue happens when you are on a foreign land and you have to pay huge amount on international roaming bills. The best way to avoid the situation is to get a local number. For travellers carrying a phone that provides an option to unlock the SIM card, it becomes hassle free to get a new number. But if you are one of them whose smart phone is not on contract anymore, the best way to get out of the condition is to call your service provider and get it unlocked. Using a local number provides a chance to save big on your holidays.

Use the Most Cost-effective Plan

The cost of air tickets and hotels are the priciest expenditure in international holidays.  For example, take Bali or Dubai or New York. Flights fares to these destinations are really expensive and you cannot avoid them most of the times. Hence, when you are buying a new SIM card, try to choose the cheapest plan. Though you will not get that high speed on mobile data connection like 3G or 4G, with a little bit of patience things can be managed with the pace of EDGE. In fact, one can make calls via Wi-Fi.

Use Offline Applications

There are many mobile applications one can use without paying the data charges. With the help of Fast Talk Phrasebook (a very useful app from Lonely Planet), international trips can be rewarding. This pocket sized language guide is really helpful when you are travelling in France, Spain, Germany or any other destinations. There’s no download charge but you need to pay for the language packs. On the other hand; Google Maps, TripAdvisor Offline City Guides, MapsWithMe etc are few very helpful apps that provide information about hotels, restaurants, medical facilities and other relevant guides at your destination.

With these tips, make your international holidays more enjoyable, but the most important part; do carry the power adaptors of your gadgets when you are travelling!

The magnificently diverse nation, India, is known for the abundant blessings that Mother Nature could ever endow on any landmass. The North-Eastern part of India, fondly referred to as ‘the seven sisters’ which resemble the seven states (at present, eight, including Sikkim) of the region, is a place which boasts of unparalleled scenic beauty, a harmonious unity of multiple cultures and ethnicities and the heart-warming hospitality of the people.

When Flights Disembark in Heaven

The unspoiled charm of the North-East owes its existence to the fact that it is considered to be an offbeat destination. However, the magnetism of the region is felt and admired by many seasoned travellers who vouch for the beauty and simplicity of the pristine landscapes. There is so much to marvel at and yet more to experience that tourists feel overwhelmed at the prospect of booking flights to the North East.

Mother Nature in Her Gorgeous Avatar

Booking tickets to North East India delights those who wish to get mesmerised by some of the most exquisite creations of nature.

Tea gardens of Assam by Arun Bharali / CC BY

Himalayan ranges of Arunachal Pradesh by Koshy Koshy / CC BY

Meghalaya by Rajesh Dutta / CC BY

Be it the sprawling tea gardens of Assam, the snow-capped Himalayan ranges of Arunachal Pradesh, the plethora of enchanting lakes, mystical waterfalls and mysterious caves of Meghalaya, the tropical forests of Mizoram- all contribute to the process of enhancing the grandeur of the blessed land.

Top it up with the living root- bridges of Cherapunjee, the blossoming valleys of Nagaland and the floating islands of Manipur- the canvas would look like nothing less than a heaven on earth.

Mizoram by rajkumar1220/ CC BY

Cherapunjee by Arup Malakar/ CC BY

Valleys of Nagaland by rajkumar1220/ CC BY

Islands of Manipur by ch_15march /CC BY

The People and Their Cultures

Tourists who book tickets to the North East are often amazed at the multiplicity of cultures, languages and ethnicities that define the region.

The frivolousness of the diverse cultures comes alive in the form of numerous festivals, dance, music and art. The demure Bihu dancers of Assam sway to the beats of the drums while the Manipuri classical dancers enchant people with their gracious gestures.

North East India is the place where one can witness the jovial celebration of the human life and all the elements that surround it.

La Tomatina Festival by Heather M/ CC BY

One of the most exciting and thrilling festivals in the world that is sure to set fun lovers on a mad quest to grab flights tickets to Spain is the much popular La Tomatina Festival. This distinct yet amazing food fight festival is held on the last Wednesday of August every year in the town of Bunol near Valencia in Spain. This year the gala event is scheduled for 27th August, 2014 and expected to beckon millions of people for partaking in the ‘World’s Biggest Food Fight’. The festival is going to start with a bang at around 11 am when the over dozens of trucks will haul the bounty of tomatoes into the centre of the town, Plaza del Pueblo.

All about the Festival

It is a week-long festival brings along a marvellous repertoire of events ranging from music concerts to fashion parades to fireworks. A paella cooking contest is also held a night before the tomato fights. The festival begins just after one brave soul climbs a two-story high, greased-up wooden pole to reach the coveted ham at the top. However, the signal for the beginning of the carnival is firing of water cannons on the gathered crowd and just then the chaos begins with people going mad and crazy to hit each other with squeezed tomatoes. This entire playfulness lasts for almost one hour when the fighting ends with the water cannons fired once more to signal the end. At this time, the participants wash themselves and enjoy the cool shower with family and friends.

The official La Tomatina after Party is also something worth the cost of air tickets for flights to Spain. This year the party is intended to become bigger and better as it will see thousands of merrymakers dancing on the thumping tunes and sipping their favourite booze. Participants must wear protective safety goggles and gloves.

La Tomatina is the most sought after events in the world with thousands of global travellers flocking the Spain. It is a peak season that definitely calls for advance booking of the flights, hotels and entry tickets.

The much celebrated festival of San Fermin, better known as Running of the Bulls outside Spain, is listed amongst some of the most thrilling festivals of Spain. This gala event is being celebrated in the country from 6th – 14th July, thus giving the merrymakers a chance to grab last minute flights tickets to Spain. However, holidaymakers already vacationing in the country may head to Irunea/Pamplona in the region of Navarra to partake in this exciting and fun-filled festival. People in large groups assemble in the square, awaiting the official announcement of the mayor that the fiesta has begun. Just after the announcement is made, a rocket is launched towards the sky and the partying begins with utmost zeal and enthusiasm.

Spain’s ‘Running of the Bulls’ by Ian Mackenzie / CC BY

The Bull Run starts at 8 am every morning from Santo Domingo where the bulls are kept to the bullring as they fight in the other direction that same afternoon. The total stretch is of over 825 meters and the average time of the run from start to finish is almost three minutes where the participants need to run for their life. The tension intensifies just after the bulls are released. The runners are advised to be dressed in white with a red handkerchief around their necks that marks as a sign of respect for San Fermin. The runners first climb Santo Domingo and then go across the Ayuntamiento Square further crossing Mercaderes. The most exciting yet dangerous part of the run is at the curve leading into Estafeta that takes the breath away of participants.

Spain’s ‘Running of the Bulls by Ian Mackenzie / CC BY

This popular event was earlier celebrated in honour of San Fermin, a patron saint of Navarra, however with the rolling years the religious aspect has taken a backseat. The fiesta is now seen as a large gathering of people from different parts of the world where people come for partying, having fun and making the most of their huge monies spent on air tickets for flights to Spain. Travellers are advised to follow all the essential tips and advise while being a part of the race to avoid any kind of causality.

Most people across the world love watching movies. Well, IMAX has taken that interest to the whole new level. Now we ‘don’t just watch movies’ we ‘live in them’. Breathtaking ambience, amazing sound effects, spectacular 3d and let’s not just get started with the screen clarity. Love movies? Then you must be loving IMAX too. If you don’t, let us change your mind by giving you a quick peek into some of the best IMAX theatres in the world. These theatres are not only among the most advanced ones in the world but they are guaranteed to make you fall in love with IMAX.

Cinesphere, Toronto, Canada

Cinesphere, Toronto, Canada by Sookie / CC BY

Established in 1971, Cinesphere is first ever permanent IMAX movie theatre in the world. Around eighty feet wide and sixty feet high, it is also one of the most advanced theatres in the world. Seating arrangement is for 752 people and there are a large number of amenities available. In case you need to visit this theatre, it is located at Ontario Place (amusement park), on the side of Lake Ontario.

Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia

IMAX @ Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia by Edwin Lee / CC BY

Darling Harbour boasts the largest IMAX screen in the world. Ultra high definition 75mm format, surreal sound system and amazing seating arrangement make this theatre a great option for movie watching. If you want to be blown away, try the IMAX films like voyage around the earth on the space shuttle and climb to the top of Mount Everest. Watching these films is like living in it, you will never look at the movies same way.

L’Hemisferic, Valencia, Spain

L’Hemisferic, Valencia, Spain by O Palsson/ CC BY

Whether it is their intricate design of the movie theatre or the experience they offer, Valencia’s L’Hemisferic Theatre never fails to spellbind the visitors. Holidaymakers who book tickets on flights to Valencia and have a thing for movies, this theatre is a great option. Designed in the shape of a gigantic eye, L’Hemisferic Theater is a real jewel of the city that truly enhances the movie watching experience in a great way.

There are people who ride bikes to simply commute to their destination. And then there are some who ride to reach nowhere, to get lost in nature, explore the world or simply because they are passionate about and absolutely love riding. If you fall under the second category and drive to satiate your passion for bikes, you cannot miss few rallies. Here are just three of the best motorcycle rallies in the world that true blue bikers must visit.

Laconia Motorcycle Week

Laconia Motorcycle Week by Carter Brown / CC BY

Being annually organized over 90 years, Laconia Motorcycle Week is one of the oldest and largest motorcycle Festivals. A large number of bikers from around the world arrive here only to be a part of this amazing event; not to forget hordes of biking fans who book flight tickets to see the adrenaline pushing activity. The event starts from the Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire and there is no shortage of activities around. If you are planning on participating in this event, it is advisable to book hotels in advance.

Daytona Bike Week

Daytona Bike Week by DeusXFlorida / CC BY

If adrenaline pumping parties, great food and tons of activities are what you are after, Daytona Bike Week is not to be missed. Thousands to bikers participate in this event every year after their impatient wait for the ‘date’ ends. One of the unique aspects of the event is a number of people who decide to get married here! What could be more exciting for biking lovers to tie the eternal knot at a popular event such as this; and if you are getting any ideas, we wish you all the best. There is a lot to do and see here.

Thundersprint

Thundersprint  by Chris Hopkins / CC BY

Thundersprint is one of the largest rallies in Europe and takes pride in drawing a large number of bikers every year. It is a two day event of complete fun. Sprint races, cavalcades, trade stands and countless other activities are organized here. One of the best parts of this event is that it is organized keeping every type of crowd in mind thus creating a very friendly atmosphere. It is advised to book accommodations in advance as at the time of the event the venue gets really packed.

Gone are the days when you required the bulky tour guides to explore the main attractions and local sites of your holiday destination. But today with the advent of online and offline city guides, you just need a smart phone to download any of the following city guides for easily searching the key landmarks. These are handy and very much updated. Have a look!

World Travel Guide

Holidaymakers can make use of this online resource to know about every aspect of place. From the key airports and from the best time to visit to popular attraction, these guides are updated with everything but the kitchen sink. Its mobile app is developed by Triposo and is available on all major platforms such as iOS and Android.  Holidaymakers taking flight to their desired destination just need to select the city and the application suggests the major attractions. It also tells the distance between your current location and particular attraction in addition to approximate time to reach there. Just download it once and use it anywhere irrespective of the availability of the Internet.

World Explorer

This is another top rated travel guide for travellers buying tickets aboard flights to enjoy their holidays almost anywhere in the world. It automatically detects the location and suggests nearby attractions and activities to indulge in. One of the most profound highlights of this city guide is its full length articles that give an insight into a particular site along with its pictures. No matter whether you own an iPad or an Android device, you can always own this app.

City Guide Catalog

TripAdvisor is one website that almost every traveller checks before spending pounds on air tickets for their next trip. This website is notable for reviews on top rated attractions, activities, hotels and restaurants. But not every traveller is aware about their app known as City Guide Catalog. It is available for free and can be used offline as well. Before boarding flights to your next excursion consider updating this app (which is also free) to use an enhanced version.

Stage is set in Somerset, South West England for music lovers to be a part of Glastonbury Festival, one of the most popular music festivals in the UK. Not only music, this decades old event is also creating a buzz among holidaymakers with its extensive menu which comprises of various forms of performing arts such as comedy, theatre, dance, cabaret and circus. Michael Eavis organized the first ever Glastonbury Festival in 1970. Today, this five-day event entices hordes of performing arts lovers to buy tickets and enjoy the performances of world renowned bands and musicians. Let’s take a look at few details of this festival which is scheduled to takes place from 25th to 29th June at Worthy Farm, Pilton in Somerset.

Glastonbury Festival by David Sim / CC BY

Music

There are several stages where musicians will perform to keep up the momentum of this effervescent fiesta.  Lovers of rock music who have already booked flights to the UK can ill afford to miss out enjoying the performances of most popular rock bands such as Metallica and Kasabian that are going to set the (Pyramid) stage on fire on 28th and 29th June respectively. Besides Pyramid Stage, there are several other stages where numerous bands of varied genres will allure musos looking for a mixed bag of music. Other artists or bands that have made people purchase tickets for this festival are Dolly Parton, Nitin Sawhney and Robert Plant!

Other Entertainment

Glastonbury Festival by Peter Burgess / CC BY

If you want to relive your childhood with circus acts, Circus Big Top and Outside Circus Stage are sections where you should head to! On the other hand, theatre and dance lovers cannot afford to stay away from Astrolabe Theatre, The Summer House and Sensation Seekers Stage. Poetry&Words is sure to tickles the fancies of creative souls. Kidz Field is one of those sections that encourage family travellers to spend a day out at Worthy Farm. Kidz Field features Little Kidz Area, Prof Panic’s Puppet Theatre and Storytellers Tent.