Thursday, February 9, 2023

10 Last-Minute Spring Deals

With winter drawing to a close and Spring around the corner we thought we’d try and entice you with 10 fabulous deals that offer great value, giving you the chance to make the very most of your Spring. So whether you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to winter or you’re looking for some sunshine, you will find it all here so come and have a look for yourself.

The Dracula Experience

Follow in the footsteps of the myth and legend of Dracula, from his place of birth to his final resting place.

Trip Highlights

Visit Bran Castle: Perched up tall and ominous, with narrow corridors and hidden staircases, the Bran Castle certainly fits as home to the legend of Dracula. Steeped in history and legend, there is much to take in.
Explore Sighisoara: Birthplace Vlad III Dracula, Sighisoara is one of the best preserved medieval Saxon towns in Romania. With cobbled streets lined with colourful buildings, it’s impossible not to be charmed by this fairytale-like town.
The Transfagarasan: Jeremy Clarkson famously referred to the Transfăgărășan as the “best round in the world” due to endless turns as it winds its way up to the picturesque Balea Lake. The truly incredible engineering feat took 4 years to build.
Rasnov Fortress: The fortified citadel of Rasnov is perched up high above what is now the new town. Believed to have been built in the early 13th century by Teutonic knights the fortress was only conquered once in 1612.

Discounted Dates: £65pp off on March 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th & May 11th. & £50pp off April 6th.

The Ice Hotel Experience

A once in a life time stay at the Hotel of Ice in Transylvania, which is also home to the legendary Dracula’s Castle.

Trip Highlights

Sleep in the Ice Hotel: Redesigned each winter, every single room is individual and boasts unique snow sculptures fitting the yearly theme. Enjoy warm bedding and a professional sleeping bag for a surprisingly cosy night’s sleep!
Visit Dracula’s Castle: Perched up tall and ominous, with narrow corridors and hidden staircases, the Bran Castle certainly fits as home to the legend of Dracula. It also offers some stunning views of the surrounding area.
Dine in the Ice Restaurant: Highly recommended. A magical four-course candlelit dinner with the starter even on a plate of ice! You’ll dine at an ice table, sitting on an ice chair under the beautiful, colourful lights of the Ice Hotel’s restaurant.
Explore Brasov: Brasov’s old town offers snow-dusted, cobbled streets, sleepy houses and the crisp, wintery mountain air in what is truly a fairytale-like setting. It also has a number of very good restaurants recommended in our booklet.

Discounted Dates: £85pp off on March 10th, 17th, 25th. & £75pp off April 7th, 14th.

The Ice Hotel Ski Experience

Enjoy a magical trip to the Hotel of Ice combined with a few days on the slopes of Romania’s premier ski resort.

Trip Highlights

Sleep in the Ice Hotel: Redesigned each winter, every single room is individual and boasts unique snow sculptures fitting the yearly theme. Enjoy warm bedding and a professional sleeping bag for a surprisingly cosy night’s sleep!
Visit Dracula’s Castle: Perched up tall and ominous, with narrow corridors and hidden staircases, the Bran Castle certainly fits as home to the legend of Dracula. It also offers some stunning views of the surrounding area.
Dine in the Ice Restaurant: Highly recommended. A magical four-course candle-lit dinner with the starter even on a plate of ice! You’ll dine at an ice table, sitting on an ice chair under the beautiful, colourful lights of the Ice Hotel’s restaurant.
Skiing in Poiana Brasov: Poiana Brasov is home to Romania’s premier ski resort. It’s the perfect location for beginners or intermediate skiers but with 24km of piste, there is enough to keep the more experienced skier interested for a few days.

Discounted Dates: £125pp off on March 10th, 17th & 25th.

The Transylvanian Husky Experience

Delve into the wintery Transylvanian landscapes, home to charming Saxon towns, the infamous Dracula’s Castle and Husky sledding.

Trip Highlights

Driving a Team of Huskies: After a short introduction you’ll have the opportunity to sled yourself. Feel the wind rush past you as you’re pulled by your team of huskies pull you through the snow. An exhilarating and surreal experience you’ll never forget.
Visit Dracula’s Castle: Perched up tall and ominous, with narrow corridors and hidden staircases, Bran Castle certainly fits as home to the legend of Dracula. It also offering some stunning views of the surrounding area.
Colourful Medieval Old Towns: This trip to Transylvania is filled with beautiful medieval towns from Brasov, the gateway to Transylvania to Sighisoara, the birthplace of Dracula and Sibiu which has a European capital of culture award.
Exploring the Vibrant Bucharest: Packed with fascinating history, stunning but often contrasting architecture and a lively, vibrant night scene you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in Romania’s ever evolving capital, Bucharest.

Discounted Dates: £90pp off on March 3rd & 10th.

The Dolce Vita Puglia Experience

A long weekend in the culinary capital of Italy. Filled to the brim with fantastic food, wonderful wine and unique local accommodation.

Trip Highlights

Delicious Fresh Organic Food: Puglia is renowned for it’s fresh food and fruity wine in a country famous for its food. It produces much of the countries pasta and over half of Italy’s olive oil. So loosen your belt strap and sample some of Italy’s best food.
The Sassi in Matera: The ancient cave dwellings, grottos and natural ravines of Matera’s Sassi are rooted in ancient history and archeology, originating as far back as the Palaeolithic age. European capital of culture 2019.
Sleeping in a Trullo: These distinctive cylindrical constructions topped with coned roofs are scattered all over Puglia’s rolling countryside and are unique to this area. You’ll even get the opportunity to stay in one!
Culinary Activities: Enjoy an array of culinary experiences typical of Puglia ranging from delicious local restaurants, a cooking class, pasta making and olive oil tasting which offers an authentic taste of Southern Italy.

Discounted Dates: £100pp off on April 19th & May 24th.

The Montenegro Experience

Travel from the clear waters of Kotor to the mountains soaking up the Venetian towns, dramatic landscapes and remote rural Ethno villages.

Trip Highlights

Bay of Kotor: “Most beautiful encounter between land and sea” according to Lord Byron and it’s hard to argue. The bay and its charming Venetian towns are best seen from the water by speed boat or yacht, luckily we can organise both!
Kotor Old Town: The venetian, fortified town of Kotor offers all the beauty of Dubrovnik but without the prices or the crowds, not to mention it’s unique walls which offer unbeatable views of the bay for those prepared to scale it!
The Landscape: The landscape in Montenegro is simply breathtaking. It’s coastline is known for beauty but arguably the inland mountain scenery is even more spectacular with its array of lakes and National Parks.
Outdoor Activities: If you like the great outdoors then Montenegro will not disappoint with the abundance of water and mountains. With many activities available such as hiking, zip-lining, kayaking, yachting and rafting.

Discounted Dates: £200pp off on April 15th & May 27th.

The Mini Bosnia Experience

Go back in history as East meets West in an impressive display of architecture and culture. All with a pinch of natural beauty.

Trip Highlights

Sarajevo: Once a symbol of multicultural accord and the home of the 1984 Winter Olympics, the city of Sarajevo is a living history lesson on how things can go wrong, but more importantly, how we can overcome our differences.
Mostar: The iconic bridge was commissioned by Suleiman the Magnificent almost five centuries ago. Reconstructed in 2004, it stands tall again as a symbol of reconciliation of the three ethnicity in the country.
Kravice Waterfalls: This true miracle of nature is the perfect way to start your journey. Whether you want to hike around, swim, or simply have a meal in the most amazing setting in the country, this waterfall will leave you breathless.
Dubrovnik: Just across the border in Croatia, you will find another Mediterranean gem. The lush green mountains marrying the sandy coast with the Old Town as a centerpiece is a must-visit European destination.

Discounted Dates: £50pp off on April 6th & £65pp off on May 11th.

The Brown Bear Experience

Step into the wild and experience the thrill of seeing the mighty Brown Bear in the depths of Transylvania’s forests.

Trip Highlights

Spotting wild brown bears: Travel into the forests of the Carpathians to a bear hide and patiently wait as the wildlife starts to appear, from wild boar to foxes and of course, the majestic brown bear and all in their natural habitat.
Libearty Bear Sanctuary: The bear sanctuary was set up in 1998 and is now home to over 70 rescued bears. Its beautiful, tranquil setting allows the bears to live out the rest of their lives in comfort and safety.
Postcard-perfect Brasov: Nestled between the Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is a gem. From the old town to the hiking trails around, there’s plenty to do here.Transylvanian countryside a veritable paradise of beauty and wildlife.
Must-see castles: From the ornate, fairy-tale like Peles Castle to the imposing, legendary Bran Castle, more commonly know as Dracula’s Castle you’ll be sure to get your culture fix from your visit to Transylvania.

Discounted Dates: £75pp off on April 29th & May 20th, 27th.

The Slovenia Experience

From pretty seaside towns to remote mountain cabins and glacial lakes, Slovenia offers the perfect outdoor getaway.

Trip Highlights

The Great Outdoors: Mountain towns, the incredibly picturesque Lake Bled and the enchanting capital of Ljubljana. Yes, it’s safe to say the scenery is most definitely a highlight of the hidden gem that is Slovenia.
Ljubljana: With Ljubljana’s castle perched above the colourful buildings of the town centre, stretched along the winding river, Slovenia’s capital is certainly one of the country’s highlights. It also has some lovely bars and restaurants.
Activities: Slovenia is an outdoor country, lush green fields against a backdrop of mountain peaks and filled with fresh air. So get out and enjoy all the outdoor activities on offer such as white water rafting, kayaking, hiking, sight seeing.
Food & Wine: Slovenia’s culinary offerings take their influences from a number of countries which makes for not only very tasty local fare but some really original flavours so don’t be shy in being a little more adventurous when ordering.

Discounted Dates: £240pp off on April 8th & May 6th.

The Mini Sahara Experience

A Mini Moroccan adventure that takes you from the mayhem of Marrakech, through the High Atlas Mountains to the sand dunes of the Sahara Desert.

Trip Highlights

Sahara Sunset: There’s nothing quite like riding a camel out into the desert and sitting on a big sand dune, while slowly watching the sunset over the horizon. So peaceful and tranquil, it’s definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Marrakesh: A visit to Marrakesh certainly awakens the senses. Whether it’s bartering for a deal in the chaos of the souks, relaxing in the oasis that is your Riad or having dinner in a fancy restaurant in Gueliz, there is something for everyone.
Moroccan Cuisine: Rich with flavour, the food has a unique, delicious taste, so don’t be shy in trying their specialities from tajines with couscous to a pastillas and of course the obligatory mint tea. You can even take a cooking class!
Aït Benhaddou: A UNESCO World Heritage site, you are likely to recognise this incredible kasbah as it’s featured in many productions, the most famous being Gladiator and more recently Game of Thrones.

Discounted Dates: £80pp off on March 16th, April 13th & May 11th, 25th.

If any of the experiences above have taken your fancy please don’t hesitate to get in contact. Alternatively, if a Spring jaunt isn’t an option then why not head over to our offer pages for discounts in the Summer and beyond!

Written by James Chisnall

The post 10 Last-Minute Spring Deals appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/10-spring-last-minute-deals/

Wednesday, February 8, 2023

Unique destinations that won’t break the bank

Dreaming of your 2023 summer holiday, but concerned about the cost of living crisis? Don’t worry! We’ve rounded up our top cheap yet unique destinations to visit this year. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly European city break, an exotic sun-drenched tropical holiday, or an affordable adventurous safari – Or all of the above! Then read ahead for our top destinations that won’t break the bank.

EUROPE

Brasov, Romania

Romania is often hailed as one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, and the medieval town of Brașov deserves a place on your bucket list for 2023. Nestled in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains and known as the gateway into Transylvania, the medieval Saxon town of Brasov is an absolute gem. A world away from the lively buzz of the capital city, Brasov provides the perfect base for exploring the Transylvanian countryside with its rural villages, fortified churches, and thick forests as well as the infamous Bran Castle, the would-be residence of mysterious Count Dracula. Spend time wandering through the medieval city’s laidback, romantic cobbled streets, tour the Biserica Neagra (black church), and hike up Tampa Mountain for breathtaking views of the city. Flights to Romania are plentiful and start from as little as £36 return therefore If you are planning a European trip that’s affordable and a little bit off the beaten path, Brasov is perfect for you!

Average prices Coffee £1.90, evening meal £29, beer £1.50

Madeira, Portugal

Known as the land of eternal spring, there really is no bad time to visit Madeira. Don’t be put off visiting in the off-season, January through March may be the coolest time of the year, but it’s also the quietest and the cheapest! I recommend renting a car for your stay, rentals are cheap and so is fuel making it the perfect way to fully explore everything this island has to offer. We spent hours just driving around in awe of the landscape. As Madeira is such a paradise for nature lovers, many of the outdoor attractions available are free to visit. There are endless hiking trails and levada walks that are free yet offer some of the most impressive views out there. As you’d expect on a small Atlantic island, Madeiran restaurants serve excellent seafood at a very good price so don’t hold back on trying out some typical Madeiran seafood dishes. The scabbard fish is frightening to look at but is wonderfully tasty, especially when had the ‘Madeiran Way’, with passion fruit and banana sauce. Limpets are another specialty that are cooked upwards in a frying pan and splashed with fresh lemon and butter and if you want to taste one of the world’s best tuna steaks then look no further! Tuna fish is abundant in the seas around the island and hence has a strong component in the traditional cuisine of the region. While I was there I don’t remember spending more than €10 on a meal at any given time and it was all delicious.

Average prices Coffee £1.20, evening meal for two £29, beer £2.20

Tallinn, Estonia

If you want to experience the Scandinavia feel without the eye-watering prices then Tallinn is the perfect place to go! It’s a fascinating city with numerous historical landmarks and has one of the best-preserved medieval walls in Europe, and there are several places to walk on and inside the stone walls surrounding our Old Town. For gorgeous views of the Old Town and the sea visit one of the free viewing points on Toompea Hill. Tallinn prides itself on its high-class restaurant scene. Fresh and seasonal ingredients, tasteful interiors, and superb locations are what unite the best restaurants in the city. However, if you’re looking for a quick bite, or don’t feel like spending over €10 for a meal, Tallinn won’t leave you hungry. According to Visit Tallinn, Kolmas Draakon is undoubtedly the cheapest eating place in Town Hall Square. The tiny medieval-themed eatery can be found in the Town Hall itself and the most expensive food item on the menu will rob you of about 5 euros. The Elk Soup is practically legendary by now and should not be missed. However, if you’re completely broke you can scoop free pickles from a huge vat at the back of the room! Whilst it isn’t the cheapest destination on our list and definitely, in Eastern Europe, it has that undeniably cool, chic nordic vibe without the ridiculously high prices that you’d find in cities like Helsinki and Copenhagen.

Average prices Coffee £2.90, evening meal for two £53, beer £4.40

Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a budget travellers paradise. Food, drink, and accommodation are all affordable, even in its capital, Sarajevo. Due to its long and rich history of religious and cultural diversity, Sarajevo was sometimes called the “Jerusalem of Europe” or “Jerusalem of the Balkans”. It is the only major European city to have a mosque, Catholic church, Orthodox church and synagogue within the same neighborhood. Therefore it’s no surprise that Sarajevo’s food scene is diverse and delicious, with influences from both the middle-east and Europe. For a quick snack to keep you satisfied throughout the day head to Bravadžiluk for some delicious street food where you will be spoilt for choice! If you fancy a sit-down meal find an Ascinica, these basic restaurants specialise in cheap yet hearty meals. There are no menus, you simply choose from the pots of food on the counter and enjoy!

Average prices Coffee £1.30, evening meal for two £23, beer £1.60

Cartagena, Colombia

Regarded as one of the cheapest countries to visit in South Africa, Colombia is the perfect destination to go to when you want to stretch your cash. The colourful city of Cartagena may not be the cheapest city to visit while in Colombia but it offers visitors tremendous value for a genuinely luxurious experience without paying over-the-top prices like elsewhere. Try visiting in the shoulder season months of November, February and March as visitors can expect cheaper prices for accommodation and activities. Like much of central and south America, street food stalls are everywhere! Giving the hungry plenty of options for a tasty snack, offering big savings compared to restaurant prices! If you do fancy a sit-down meal, keep your eye out for the menú del día. It’s common to see chalkboards outside restaurants offering this menu of the day, a three-course lunch at a very affordable way to fill up and experience the local dishes. Join us on our 14-night Colombia experience and enjoy a stay in Cartagena!

Average prices Coffee £1.25, evening meal for two £20, beer £1.70AFRICA

Marrakech, Morocco

Anyone who is expecting modern sophistication and a tranquil paradise of calm is in for a shock. Marrakech is like no other place on earth, full of magic and mystery, mesmerising chaos and its own unique brand of unconventional beauty. The snow-dusted peaks of the High Atlas Mountains and the flaming red of the scorching desert create a backdrop of pure exoticism that will make you feel as though you’ve been pulled into a far-flung world forgotten by the clutches of time. Just make sure you come prepared for a serious case of sensory overload! With dozens of flights from Europe arriving every day, Marrakech is a cheap holiday and inexpensive weekend break. One of the most affordable ways to stay in Marrakech is by staying in a hostel, here you can stay in some incredibly beautiful places for as little as £28 a night for a private room. For food and drink I recommend sticking to local drinks such as coffee and mint tea, while alcohol is legal here it can be quite expensive. As Morocco’s trademark and famous dish, you are bound to have at least one tajine during your stay. These tasty stews vary in ingredients but all are cooked and come served in the traditional conical earthenware pots that magically turn everything inside into tender treasures and are always reasonably priced. If Marrakech is a bit too overwhelming, Fez is a very affordable and quieter option, though you can still expect a bustling medina! Get lost in its winding alleyways, snap up some Moroccan home decor from the stalls which you’d likely pay a small fortune for back in the UK, and enjoy the food at local markets. Join us on one of our many Morocco tours and experience the mesmerising chaos for yourself.

Average prices Coffee £1.30, evening meal for two £33, beer £2.60

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is one of Africa’s most beautiful, most romantic, and most visited cities. It’s extraordinary, something its pre-colonial Khoikhoi inhabitants acknowledged when they referred to Table Mountain as Hoerikwaggo – the mountain in the sea. Even more extraordinary is that so close to the national park that extends over much of the peninsula, there’s a vibrant metropolis with nightlife to match the city’s wildlife. Swim with penguins at Boulders Beach, see the continent’s southwestern tip at Cape Point, enjoy lunch on the chic hi Atlantic seaboard, and taste fine wines on a historic Constantia estate, before partying the night away in a Long Street club. A coming-together of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes, there’s nowhere quite like Cape Town. Accommodation costs are generally affordable and food and drinks are very cheap. Many of South Africa’s best attractions are very affordable or even free and, while some activities could set you back a fair amount, there’s plenty to do at lower price points too. It’s generally acknowledged that overall it’s cheaper to safari in Southern Africa than it is in East Africa, and out of all the countries in Southern Africa, it’s South Africa itself that generally ranks as the most affordable. Therefore compared to other countries in Africa, Cape Town is perfect for people on a shoestring budget who still want to experience a once-in-a-lifetime safari! See for yourself on one of our South African experiences here!

Average prices Coffee £1.50, evening meal for two £28, beer £1.90

For further information on the trips listed above please don’t hesitate to get in contact.

Written by Lucy Kaufmann

The post Unique destinations that won’t break the bank appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/unique-destinations-that-wont-break-the-bank/

Top 5 Silliest Animal Moments

The mighty polar bear, the tenacious penguin, and the majestic lion. Some of the most impressive creatures in the natural world – and at times, the most ridiculous. Join us as we recount the endearing capers of these incredible animals!

The post Top 5 Silliest Animal Moments appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/top-5-silliest-animal-moments/

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

15 Images That’ll Make You Want To Visit Madeira

Ever since I visited Madeira three years ago, the thought of one day returning has never left my mind. I knew the island was special but I didn’t realise just how jaw-droppingly beautiful it would be. From high up in the misty mountains to the lush green forests that snake around the many Llevadas that have been built around the island, to the crystal clear waters and the almost too cute-to-be-real A-frame houses. Madeira is blessed with magnificent and incredibly diverse landscapes that will stay in your memory for a lifetime. If that’s not enough to convince you to catch the next flight there, these images certainly will!