Riding Turkey’s midnight express train.

In the last leg of our extensive rail exploration series, we set off on the Doğu Express, a train voyage from Ankara, the capital of Turkey, heading east towards Kars and the Georgian border. At Ankara’s historic Tarihi Karacabey Hamami, Karim, a masseur, jokingly says, “You can pay whatever you think is fair.” As we … Read more

Transforming Travel: The OurBus Narrative

In an era prioritizing convenience and effectiveness, the transportation sector is experiencing a significant revolution. Notable among these advancements is the emergence of technology-driven, community-based bus services tailored to today’s commuter. Leading this movement is OurBus, an innovative transportation platform reshaping travel experiences. This article explores the inception, characteristics, and influence of OurBus in the … Read more

Delving into Lopesan, a premier tourism.

In the realm of travel and tourism, few entities have wielded as much influence as Lopesan. Originating from the Canary Islands, this Spanish multinational firm has emerged as a frontrunner in the hospitality and tourism sector. Driven by a firm commitment to excellence, sustainability, and pioneering ideas, Lopesan has built a reputation for delivering unparalleled … Read more

France’s La Ciotat port remains a hidden gem.

Less bustling than Marseille, this delightful seaside town quietly celebrates its storied shipbuilding past, association with filmmaking, and love for pétanque. The La Ciotat port, nestled between Marseille and Toulon, once boasted grand shipyards that drew French emperors, dignitaries, and scholars to witness magnificent ocean liner launches. These grand events occasionally caused the port to … Read more

Final summer getaway: Coastal escapes in France, Spain, Italy

As kids head back to school, the crowds thin out, prices decrease, and plenty of sunshine lingers for late-season trips in Southern Europe. Cassis, Provence, France Nicely basking in 300 days of sunshine annually, Nice has long been a top draw for northern Europeans yearning for a prolonged summer. Yet, on the western fringes of … Read more

The call for airline fee reform amplifies as additional fees continue to expand.

Studies indicate that almost 90% of airlines enforce fees for various items, sparking discussions about transparency. A recent report highlights a considerable upsurge in fees for flight add-ons, with nearly 90% of airlines implementing charges for supplementary services in addition to the base flight cost. Ryanair notably leads in charges for extras like seat selection, … Read more

Greeks Struggle to Save Beaches from Sun Loungers

Demonstrators Push to Halt Unauthorized Sunbeds and Demand Open Beach Access Amidst the sweltering August heat, the Archilochos cultural center on Paros, typically serene, buzzes with activity. Yet, rather than drawing crowds to its discussions, the island’s attention turns to bars and beaches, attracting an elite crowd. Amid Greece’s peak summer exodus, the Archilochos resonated … Read more

Rural traditions in the UK are upheld by local shows.

Agricultural shows in the UK are emblematic of the British summer, blending rural customs with village celebrations to evoke a delightful sense of eccentricity and joy. Years ago, I found myself tasked with evaluating homemade wines at a local agricultural show. Despite having written under intense World Cup deadlines and addressed audiences at Lord’s Long … Read more

UK country shows, selected by readers, evoke a captivating history.

These events pay tribute to agriculture, culinary delights, and scenic settings, all while displaying enduring rural customs that have endured across centuries. Somerset’s Breathtaking Backdrop Don’t overlook the 175th Dunster Show happening today (August 18th). This event encompasses anticipated attractions – livestock, tractors, horses, and amicable competitions. It serves as a platform to exhibit local … Read more

Travelstart innovates the process of planning and booking journeys.

Founded in 1999, Travelstart has evolved from a startup into a global powerhouse within the travel sector, delivering a seamless and user-friendly experience for travelers worldwide. This piece explores Travelstart’s journey, services, and its influence on contemporary travel. The Birth of Travelstart: Initiated in Sweden by Stephan Ekbergh, an entrepreneurial visionary driven by simplifying travel … Read more